Who Will Lead the Catholic Church? Key Contenders for the Next Pope

135 cardinals from 71 different countries gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next pope.

The crucial question is whether the Church wants to continue on Francis' line, notes Peter Karlsson, lecturer in religious studies at Jönköping University.

Should one continue to strive to adapt to the surrounding society on issues that are important in our part of the world, such as homosexuality and female priests? Or does one want to proceed cautiously on the more moderate path – or does one want to emphasize tradition and even go back?

In the pre-speculations, there are both progressive and conservative cardinals. Here are some of the hottest names.

Luis Antonio Tagle, 67

Filipino Tagle is seen as one of Pope Francis' closest men, particularly on issues related to global justice. According to Italian Il Giornale, he is described as a charismatic cardinal who would bring a "dizzying perspective shift" to the Peter's Church.

He is also relatively young and from Asia, which speaks strongly in his favor. Maybe it's time for an Asian pope, says Peter Karlsson.

Pietro Parolin, 70

Several Italians are included in the speculations. The most touted is Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, who is also Peter Karlsson's tip.

Parolin is a more moderate voice who does not want to move too quickly in the process of change, he says.

Since Francis has been controversial – particularly in the US where he has been called the "left-wing pope" in heated debates – perhaps one will choose Parolin as a more moderate alternative.

Pierbattista Pizzaballa, 59

Pizzaballa is another favorite Italian tip – but partly too young and leader of the Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem.

Therefore, he may, according to news agency EFE, be too political a choice as a successor to Francis, who was an outspoken advocate for peace in Gaza. Pizzaballa has also expressed support for the Palestinians.

I don't think they dare make such a choice in this situation, says Peter Karlsson.

Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, 65 and Peter Turkson, 76

Two African cardinals are also high on the betting sites: Congolese Fridolin Ambongo Besungu and Ghanaian Peter Turkson. Besungu is described as relatively conservative, while Turkson has, among other things, embraced homosexuals within the Church.

Peter Karlsson believes that the Catholic Church is ready for its first black pope.

I think that other aspects than skin color are decisive here, he says.

Anders Arborelius, 75

Sweden's first cardinal would be a surprising pope choice. Arborelius is a moderate voice who has made himself known as a strong defender of the Church's doctrine.

Peter Karlsson is, however, skeptical.