The passing of Pope Francis will soon usher in a historic gathering of cardinals at the Vatican to elect a new pontiff, leaving many to ponder if the next leader of the Catholic Church could be of British origin. The idea isn’t as far-fetched as it may seem, given that it’s been 866 years since Britain’s sole papal figure, Pope Adrian IV, stepped down in 1159. However, the complex history of the Catholic Church in the UK, marred significantly by figures like King Henry VIII, casts a shadow on this possibility.
Presently, there are four British cardinals eligible to participate in the conclave, with three being young enough to cast their votes. Despite none of the British cardinals being frontrunners for the papacy, the secretive process of papal election is no stranger to surprises.
Cardinal Profiles:
- Cardinal Vincent Nichols (79) – A native of Liverpool, Cardinal Nichols was born with dreams of driving trucks before feeling a calling to join the priesthood while watching Liverpool FC. He has served as the Archbishop of Westminster since 2009 and is recognized for his work against human trafficking and modern slavery, for which he was awarded the UN Path to Peace Award. Despite criticism from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, he has expressed shame over the Catholic Church’s actions and pledged to improve the church’s response. However, Cardinal Nichols has seemingly disallowed himself from contender status, citing age and capability.
- Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe (79) – Born in London, Cardinal Radcliffe entered the Dominican Order and was ordained in 1971. Known for speeches on monastic vows in the modern era, he was appointed a cardinal in 2024 and is perceived as an ally to Pope Francis. Despite being a popular figure, his age and his own remarks suggesting he’s not fit for the role likely rule out his consideration as a contender.
- Cardinal Michael Fitzgerald (87) – Made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2019, Cardinal Fitzgerald is an expert in Christian-Muslim relations and has served in diplomatic roles similar to that of an ambassador. As a 87-year-old, he is ineligible to vote but can still play a crucial role in pre-conclave discussions.
- Cardinal Arthur Roche (75) – From West Yorkshire, Cardinal Roche has spent his career in various roles within and outside the Vatican, including a controversial Bid for Leeds Bishop. Despite questions about his fast-track trajectory and tenantures, some view him as a dark horse candidate for the papacy.
Conclusion:
The idea of a British pope isn’t dismissed outright. However, considering the ages of the British cardinals, the next pontiff might likely be someone younger. There is also a growing sentiment, shared by religious figures and observers alike, that the Catholic Church may look beyond Europe for its next leader, reflecting the Church’s global reach and influence. Despite these traditions and expectations, the process remains shrouded in secrecy, leaving room for unexpected choices in the Vatican’s pursuit of its new shepherd.
