A Papal Successor in the Spirit of Francis?
Cardinal Luis Tagle pope frontrunner talk grows, as the Filipino cardinal is widely seen as a possible successor to Francis. He has gained popularity because of his humility, compassion for the poor, and quietly important support for LGBTQ Catholics. Known as the “Asian Francis,” Tagle had the potential to continue Francis’ inclusive legacy, especially for marginalized communities.
Support from Gay Catholics in the Philippines
In Manila, openly gay Catholics like Gerald Concepcion express hope that Tagle could become the next pope. “He accepted everyone, including us gay people,” Concepcion said of Pope Francis, adding that Tagle offers a similar spirit of openness and humility.
Though Tagle rarely makes public statements about homosexuality, his actions speak volumes. In 2014, he granted a request from Courage Philippines—a Catholic LGBTQ group—to assign a priest for their spiritual support. In 2018, Tagle responded to a question about LGBTQ Catholics by saying, “All of us are parishioners, all of us are children of God.”
A Humble Shepherd of the People
Tagle’s pastoral history includes years spent ministering in the streets of Imus, south of Manila. He became known as a “man of the people,” even earning the shopkeeper at his regular barbershop the nickname “Holy Barber.”
Appointed cardinal in 2012 and later tapped to lead the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, Tagle has held influential roles. He was also president of Caritas Internationalis, the Church’s global humanitarian arm.
Warm Personality, But Lacking in Prophetic Voice?
While Tagle is seen as warm and relatable, critics say he lacks the boldness of Francis. He was criticized for failing to speak out strongly against the Philippines’ deadly drug war and the Church’s own abuse scandals. He often avoids confrontational rhetoric, preferring diplomacy over direct confrontation.
A Disadvantageous Administrative Record
There was criticism of Tagle’s leadership in Caritas Internationalis. Pope Francis fired Tagle and the organization’s leadership in 2022 after a Vatican audit revealed severe mismanagement. Others worry that Tagle has the administrative grit necessary to manage the global Church, despite the fact that he is a superb theologian and speaker.
Will the Cardinals Opt for Change or Continuity?
The future of the Catholic Church is at stake as the conclave is scheduled on May 7, 2025.. Will the cardinals elect a candidate like Tagle who continues Pope Francis’ legacy of compassion and inclusion? Or will they lean toward someone more traditional and Europe-based?
Experts say Tagle is a strong symbolic candidate, especially in the media, but his chances among the cardinal electors are less certain.
Source: NBC News
