** After François: Towards a new chapter for the Catholic Church? **
The death of Pope Francis, which occurred during an unexpected appearance at the end of the Sunday Mass of the Rameaux to the Vatican, leaves the Catholic world in front of a time of meditation and questioning. After twelve years of pontificate, it is important to analyze what this transition represents for the Catholic Church and the candidates who are looming to succeed François in the Sistine Chapel.
### A pontificate marked by change
The reign of François, started in 2013, was a symbol of renewal for many Catholics. He sought to approach often controversial subjects such as homosexuality, immigration, as well as relations between religions. This more open approach found a positive echo among progressives, but also caused resistance within the more conservative sectors of the Church.
François also inherited persistent challenges such as sexual abuses within the clergy, and his efforts to approach this question were applauded in many circles, although they have often been perceived as insufficient by those who requested more decisive actions.
### Candidates for conclave
While the cardinals are preparing to elect the next pontiff sovereign, several figures emerge as potential favorites. Each of them embodies different visions of the church and contemporary ethical challenges.
#### Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State of the Vatican and accustomed to diplomatic relations, Pietro Parolin appears as a compromise between the progressive and conservative factions. His career, marked by initiatives aimed at establishing cordial relations with various countries, notably China, testifies to a pragmatic approach. However, his previous comments on homosexual marriage raise questions about her ability to sail the “cultural wars” that persist within the Church.
#### CARDINAL Jean-Marc AVELINE
The French Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline is often quoted for its ideological proximity to François, particularly concerning immigration issues. This inclination for an inclusive and reforming discourse could seduce a church in search of modernity. However, his lack of control of the Italian, a key language in the context of institutional relations, could constitute an obstacle.
#### Cardinal Péter Erdo
Although Erdo farting is known for his conservative positions, he remains respected for his ability to dialogue without open confrontation. Through its experience and network, it could seek a balance between convictions based on Christian tradition and the contemporary challenges that the Church must face, especially in Europe.
#### Cardinal Peter Turkson
Another name sometimes mentioned is that of Peter Turkson, who could make him the first pope of sub -Saharan Africa. Turkson is distinguished by his varied experience and his commitment to issues such as climate and social justice. However, its position on certain subjects could place it in a delicate position in the face of increasing expectations for a church which must be inclusive.
#### Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi
Matteo Maria Zuppi, nicknamed “Italian Bergoglio”, embodies a pastoral style close to that of François, focused on social justice, the interreligious and solidarity. Although it is in line with the spirit of the current pontificate, its management of sexual abuses could arouse questions about the effectiveness of its future actions.
### An election to crucial issues
The choice of the next pope will not only be a question of traditional identity or loyalty. It is also a question of taking into account the evolution of the Catholic world, which is at a crossroads between an pressing modernity and deeply rooted traditions. Cardinals voters will be called upon to decide not only from the theological direction of the Church, but also of its ability to initiate an open and constructive dialogue with a globally secularized company.
White smoke, a symbol of the election of a new pope, will not only mark the end of an era, but also the beginnings of a potentially transformative reflection for millions of believers. In a changing world, how can the future Sovereign Pontiff navigate these challenges while remaining faithful to the fundamental values of Catholicism? This remains an open question, both ambitious and delicate.
The international Catholic community is not only at the threshold of a change in leadership, but of a possible evolution in the way in which the Church is positioned in the world of today. The next conclave will have to use great wisdom to choose, not only a new pope, but also a guide that can bring the Church to the future with dignity and respect for its rich history.