135 Cardinals to Convene in Rome to Elect New Pope, 108 Chosen by Pope Francis

Vatican, 22 April 2025: As Catholics around the world mourn the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on 21 April at the age of 88, 135 cardinal-electors are preparing to gather at the Vatican to elect his successor. The conclave, expected to begin in the coming weeks, will bring together cardinals under the age of 80 to choose the next Bishop of Rome.

80% of Voting Cardinals Appointed by Francis

Of the 135 eligible electors, 108 (80%) were appointed by Pope Francis — the highest proportion of papal electors appointed by a single pope in recent history. The rest include 22 (16.3%) appointed by Pope Benedict XVI and five (3.7%) by Pope John Paul II.

Current Cardinal Representation by Region

• Italy: 12.6% (17 cardinals)
• Asia: 17.0% (23 cardinals)
• Africa: 13.3% (18 cardinals)
• South America: 12.6% (17 cardinals)
• North America: 14.8% (20 cardinals)
• Europe overall: 39.3% (53 cardinals)

A Conclave Shaped by Francis’ Global Vision

While the voting outcome remains uncertain, Pope Francis’ influence is unmistakable. His focus on pastoral care, social justice, and global inclusivity is mirrored in the cardinals he selected. Though last-minute changes to the electorate are possible, the next pope will be chosen by a College largely shaped by the late pontiff’s priorities and vision for the Church.

By Catholic Connect Reporter