Pope Francis has several times indicated that his will not be a long papacy. During the press conference on his flight back from Korea he spoke about Pope Benedict’s retirement and said, “I would do the same. I would do the same. I will pray, but I would do the same. He [Benedict] opened a door that is institutional not exceptional.” Realizing that he is seventy seven years old, Pope Francis also spoke to reporters about his awareness that his life was close to its end. Referring to his reign as pope he said, ”…I know it will last only a short time. Two or three years and then I’ll be off to the Father’s House,”
If Pope Francis is “off to the Father’s House” or takes the path of resignation, who might be in line to step into the shoes of the fisherman? I have chosen twelve cardinals from around the world to watch in 2015. Most of the twelve were considered “papabile” or “possible popes” in the 2013 conclave. Assuming that the cardinals will be inclined to choose a steadier hand and more “conservative” pope to balance the style and stance of Francis, I have selected cardinals known as mainstream or conservative. There are two choices from the far East, two from Africa, two from North America, two from the English speaking former colonies, two from Europe and two from Latin America.
Read Full Article »