In brief
As the Catholic Church prepares for a significant transition, ten cardinal electors from the United States will participate in the conclave, marking a turning point for the global church leadership.
May 7, 2025 – The Vatican is set to host a papal conclave, and ten cardinal electors from the U.S. will have a voice in selecting the next pope. Among them, six were elevated to the role by Pope Francis. These prelates are known for their progressive stances on critical issues such as immigration, poverty, and environmental justice.Prominent figures include Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago, known for advocating immigrant rights; Cardinal Robert W. McElroy of Washington, who champions LGBTQ inclusion; and Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, the first African-American cardinal, whose leadership focused on the zero-tolerance policy against sexual abuse. Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, engaged in family and life issues, and Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, a former Chicago priest now advising on global bishop appointments, round out the influential cohort. As papal elections approach, these ten will shape the direction of the Church's future.
