Two Cardinals Were Close to Becoming Pope — One’s Hidden Hobby Shocked the Vatican

After the historical conclave that captivated the world, the Vatican announced his new Pope.

In the surprising turnover of the events, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevort was elected as Pope Leo XIV, and resisted the predictions that placed two pioneers in the center of attention. Among them was Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

an experienced diplomat, who was long considered the potential successor of Pope Francis. Despite his widespread support, however, it was a relatively unknown convention that appeared victorious, so much confused unexpected choice.

At the age of 69, Pope Leo XIV is an experienced leader with extensive experience with pastoral work and the administration of the Church. His selection is a turning point for the Vatican when he enters the shoes of Pope Francis, who died on April 21, 2025, after almost ten years of the papacy. The first US Pope bears the weight of high expectations, and many seek spiritual leadership, leadership and a new direction for the Church.

As the world cares carefully, it remains to see how Pope Leo XIV will form the future of the Catholic Church. However, it is certain that its selection is one of the most unexpected memory, which signals the potential for new approaches and perspectives in the papacy.

A new Pope was chosen after the historical conclave, which was much surprised because he was not one of the two cardinals considered the leading runs-the one was known for his praised but criticized singing.

Pope Francis died 21 April 2025, at the age of 88 and remained a significant gap in the Vatican. Pope Leo XIV now leads the Catholic Church, although the two most anticipated candidates have not been selected. Here is a view of the election process and front cardinals.

** voting process **

When the papacy is released, the Vatican has a set rule of when it must be a conclave. According to the Constitution, the conclave must start with a new Pope within 15 days of the free space.

Cardinal voters will receive time to arrive in this period. However, if all voters are present, Conclave may initiate a conclave earlier. Conclave can be postponed for several days, but only for valid reasons.

As soon as it runs away 20 days after the free space, all voters must start the vote process. Cardinals write the name of their elected candidate for ballots with the Latin phrase “Eligo in the summum pontificim” (“I choose the highest pontiff”). This means the beginning of the voting process.

Three control counts votes, three infirmaria help patients cardinals and three revisers confirm the results. These roles are assigned random batches. Before the start of the vote, the chapel doors are sealed and all non -chokes are accompanied.

On the altar, each voter handles his vote in the order of seniority and at the same time composed an oath that evokes Christ as a testimony to the truth of their choice. The votes are collected in the chalice and the provisions are accepted for those who cannot physically participate.

Voting is calculated and verified. If the number does not correspond to the number of voters, the vote is considered invalid and must be re -disguised. Valid votes are then read loud, threaded, pierced and safely stored. The candidate needs a two-thirds majority-at least 89 out of 133 votes-to be elected by the Pope.

The ballots are burned in cast iron stoves, first used in 1939 and the vote can occur up to four times a day. Smoke signals are sent from the chimney above Sixtine Chapel: White for successful choices, black without result.

After each round of unsuccessful vote, there are prayers and spiritual pauses. If there are no elections after 21 laps, the process narrows it to the two best candidates who cannot vote and still need a two -thirds majority.

After election, the new Pope turns into a white robe in the “Tears” room and then introduced to the world. Although various candidates speculated throughout the conclave of 2025, Pope Leo XIV, a surprising choice, won.

** Candidate leaders before unexpected choice **

** Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy, 70) **

Parolin, born in Italy, Schiavon, January 17, 1955, followed by a canonical law after joining the seminar at the age of 14 and consecrated in 25. He later entered the Vatican Diplomatic Service, served in Mexico and Nigeria before supervising relations with nations, including China.

Although it has never been charged with unlawful negotiations, the leadership of parolin was explored by scandals such as the Order of the Malta crisis, financial controversy and negotiations concerning the Spanish Franco Memorial. He is close to Pope Francis and is considered a practical and discreet individual who is able to carry out the initiatives of late Pope. While he lacks pastoral experience, he is very respected for his diplomatic skills and global outlook.

Parolin has been a state secretary since 2013 and is considered a “continuity candidate” in accordance with the slight policies of Pope Francis. His cold professionalism brought him a reputation for being reliable but steadfast. It is often seen in the media that manipulates sensitive political situations. Parolin had 32% chance to be elected for Kalshi and 31% on the polymarket, which led both prediction markets.

** Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle (Philippines, 67) **

Šagle, from the Philippine-Chinese family, originally studied medicine before devoted his career in the seminar. He became Archbishop of Manila and won the title of Cardinal in 2012. Known for his progressive views and close connection with Pope Francis is often called “Asian Francis” because of his compassionate and open approach.

His candidacy, however, faced a controversy in 2025, when the report proposed that it was associated with gambling through the proxy in Macau. Despite his progressive attitude to questions such as homos*xuality and community, his public personality gained mixed reactions.

He is known for his karaoke singing, with some online fans who express support, while others criticized him for dancing with the statue of Jesus for events. Although his youth and some moral controversies could prevent his chances, his international experience and links to Pope Francis kept him in the race. Shagle had 21% chance and 20% on the polymarket, finished second.

** Other applicants before the final decision **

** Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana, 76) **

Turkson, known for defending social justice and environmental questions, was the first black Pope for centuries. He had a 7% chance of a polymarket and a similar position on Kalshi.

** Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary, 72) **

Erdő was considered a candidate that could be a shift from the progressive direction of Pope Francis. He was supported by Cardinal George Pell, but had a 7% chance of being elected.

** Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy, 69) **

The progressive voice in the church had a 8% chance of polymarket and Kalshi, known for his humanitarian efforts, especially in Ukraine.

** Cardinal José Tolentino Calaga de Mendonça (Portugal, 59) **

One of the youngest candidates, Tolentin’s progressive views and controversial attitudes, made him an unlikely choice because of his youth.

** Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta, 68) **

Originally a traditionalist, Grech moved to more progressive opinions under Pope Francis. He was considered a flexible candidate for the papacy.

** Cardinal Pierbattist Pizzaballa (Italy, 60) **

The moral leadership of the pizzabally, known for his leadership in the Holy Land, gave him recognition, even though he had a 9% chance of Kalsh.

** Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea, 79) **

Sarah, a vocal conservative, was a potential candidate, although his age and firm views on tradition were less preferred in 2025.

** Pope Leo XIV takes a helm **

Cardinal Robert Prever, elected Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025, was surprised as an outsider candidate. The prestige, a mild American cardinal, was promoted in 2023 by Pope Frantik and served in Peru and as the head of the Augustinian Order. Despite the initial skepticism of the US Pope, his election car meant a shift in the Vatican leadership. His first words to the assembled crowd was “Peace with you all!”

The elections have triggered various reactions, with some of the disappointment of the selection of the US Pope, while others accepted surprises and trust God’s mysterious way. Pope Leo XIV now begins his pontificate in the middle of high expectations for his leadership in the Church.

Conclusion

The choice of Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Francis, because the 267th bishop of Rome means a key moment for the Catholic Church. His unexpected rise of the papacy aroused mixed reactions, and many surprised the selection of a slight American cardinal beyond more expected characters such as cardinals and shield.

While some critics express disappointment or skepticism about his appointment, they quote concerns about his background or the election of an American candidate, others take decisions with hope and acknowledge that “God works a mysterious way”.

When Pope Leo XIV begins his pontificate, the world follows with anticipation and eager to see how the Church leads through the rapidly changing world and exports the inheritance of Pope Francis.

His experience with global missions and the administration of the Church offers a promise, but his leadership will inevitably face challenges when he navigates internal debates, geopolitical concerns and the ever -developing needs of the faithful.

Finally, his papacy represents a new chapter on the church path that has opportunities and challenges. With high expectations and the weight of tradition on his shoulders, the leadership of Pope Leo XIV will define the future of the Church for the coming years.

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