Eight Brazilian cardinals could participate in conclave to elect next pope

Amid growing concerns about Pope Francis’ health, speculations about a possible conclave—the official meeting of the College of Cardinals responsible for electing a new leader of the Catholic Church—are increasing. Currently, eight Brazilian cardinals could participate in and potentially be elected as the new pontiff. Three of them were present at the previous conclave in 2013, which resulted in Pope Francis’ election, while the other five were directly appointed by him.

During the conclave, cardinals who are eligible to vote (those younger than 80) gather behind closed doors in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican. They vote until one candidate receives at least two-thirds of the votes. Voting is confidential and may last several days, with the result traditionally announced through white smoke.

Pope Francis’ election in 2013 marked a significant historical milestone, as he was the first Latin American and Jesuit to occupy this position. Today, the Brazilian cardinals considered potential candidates are notable leaders in various ecclesiastical regions of Brazil.

Historical Context of Brazilian Cardinals

The presence of Brazilian cardinals in conclaves has been steadily increasing over recent decades. Brazil has had periods with more than ten eligible cardinal voters simultaneously, highlighting the growing importance of the Brazilian Catholic Church on the global stage.

Brazilian cardinals have frequently occupied influential positions in the Vatican and other international religious bodies, demonstrating not only numerical but also qualitative strength. Many of them have become renowned for their contributions to social and humanitarian issues.

Brazilian Cardinals Eligible for the Upcoming Conclave

• Dom Odilo Scherer (75, Archdiocese of São Paulo);
• Dom Orani João Tempesta (74, Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro);
• Dom Paulo Cezar Costa (57, Archdiocese of Brasília);
• Dom Leonardo Ulrich Steiner (74, Archdiocese of Manaus);
• Dom Sergio da Rocha (65, Archdiocese of Salvador);
• Dom Jaime Spengler (64, Archdiocese of Porto Alegre);
• Dom Raymundo Damasceno Assis (88, Emeritus of Aparecida);
• Dom João Braz de Aviz (77, Emeritus of Brasília).

Highlights and Backgrounds of Brazilian Cardinals

Dom Odilo Scherer has extensive international experience and was considered a strong candidate to succeed Pope Benedict XVI in 2013. He has led one of the world’s largest archdioceses since 2007 and holds significant influence in Latin America.

Dom Orani Tempesta gained prominence for organizing the World Youth Day in Rio in 2013, which attracted millions of young Catholics globally. Known for his charismatic approach, he is highly respected by the younger generation.

Dom Paulo Cezar Costa, one of the youngest cardinals, is renowned for his solid theological background and active engagement in educational and social issues. He has served as Archbishop of Brasília since 2020.

Interesting Facts About Brazilian Cardinals

• Dom Leonardo Steiner is the first cardinal from the Amazon region, noted for his active dialogue with indigenous communities and environmental advocacy.
• Dom Sergio da Rocha previously served as president of the Brazilian Bishops’ Conference (CNBB), which significantly increased his political and social influence.
• Dom Jaime Spengler was appointed cardinal recently, in December 2024, and currently serves as president of CNBB.

How the Conclave Process Works

• Voting is confidential and occurs exclusively in the Sistine Chapel;
• Cardinals remain completely isolated from the outside world throughout the process;
• Election of the new pope requires at least two-thirds of votes from the present cardinals.

Recent Timeline of the College of Cardinals

• 2013: The most recent conclave took place, electing Jorge Bergoglio as Pope Francis;
• 2014-2024: Pope Francis appointed five new Brazilian cardinals;
• February 2025: Increased speculation due to concerns over Pope Francis’ health.

Relevant Facts About Brazilian Cardinals

• Currently, Brazil has eight cardinals, with seven eligible to vote;
• The average age of Brazilian cardinals is approximately 71 years;
• Three out of eight Brazilian cardinals participated in the last conclave in 2013.

Statistics on the College of Cardinals

The College of Cardinals comprises around 120 voting cardinals from various global regions. Historically dominated by European cardinals, the college has gradually become geographically more diverse.

Latin America, particularly Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, has increasingly gained prominence in the international Catholic Church scene, especially after Pope Francis’ election.

Profiles of Brazilian Cardinals

Brazilian cardinals have diverse backgrounds:

• Academically accomplished, holding advanced degrees from pontifical universities;
• Active in social justice and environmental causes;
• Experienced in leadership roles within the CNBB and international Catholic organizations.