Tradition or change? Asia or Europe? The next Pope may reshape the Catholic Church forever — and it starts here.

Cardinals Luis Antonio Tagle and Pietro Parolin: Contenders for the Papacy Amidst a Divided Conclave

As the Vatican’s 2025 papal conclave unfolds, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines and Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy have emerged as leading candidates to succeed the late Pope Francis. Both have garnered significant support in the initial rounds of voting, though they represent contrasting visions for the future of the Catholic Church.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle: A Progressive Voice

Cardinal Tagle, 67, is known for his compassionate approach to pastoral care and his efforts to bridge the gap between traditional Catholic teachings and contemporary issues. He has been an advocate for greater inclusivity within the Church, particularly concerning the LGBTQ+ community. In 2017, he led the “Lazarus Project,” a campaign aimed at promoting acceptance of marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, within Catholic communities. While maintaining adherence to Church doctrine, Tagle emphasizes the need for a more empathetic and understanding approach to pastoral care .

Cardinal Pietro Parolin: A Traditionalist Stance

Cardinal Parolin, 70, serves as the Vatican’s Secretary of State and is regarded as a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in Church affairs. He has expressed conservative views on issues such as same-sex marriage, referring to Ireland’s legalization of the practice as a “defeat for humanity” . Parolin’s supporters view him as a stabilizing figure capable of upholding traditional Catholic values and guiding the Church through its current challenges.

A Divided Conclave

The conclave has revealed deep ideological divisions within the College of Cardinals. Progressive factions, advocating for reforms and greater inclusivity, support candidates like Tagle. In contrast, conservative factions favor candidates who uphold traditional doctrines. The outcome of the conclave remains uncertain, with discussions intensifying as cardinals deliberate on the future direction of the Church .

Conclusion

As the conclave continues, the Catholic Church stands at a crossroads. The election of a new pope will determine the trajectory of the Church in the coming years. Whether the next pope will steer the Church towards greater inclusivity and modernization or reaffirm traditional values remains to be seen.The world is watching closely as the cardinals move closer to a decision that could shape the future of the Church for decades to come.

If Cardinal Tagle is elected, he would become the first Asian Pope in history, and the first Filipino to ascend to the papacy — a symbolic shift for a Church that is increasingly global. On the other hand, if Cardinal Parolin is chosen, it would signal a continuation of tradition, reinforced by diplomatic finesse and deep institutional experience within the Vatican.

Whoever is chosen, the next Pope will face enormous challenges: a crisis of credibility, persistent abuse scandals, and the urgent need to reconnect the Church with a fast-changing world. A decisive moment of faith — and of history — is fast approaching.