On April 21, 2025, the world mourned the passing of Pope Francis, a pontiff whose tenure was marked by profound messages of hope and compassion. Cardinal Juan José Omella, the Archbishop of Barcelona, expressed his sorrow and reflected on the Pope's legacy during a press conference held at the Episcopal Palace in Barcelona. Describing the day as one filled with sadness, Omella noted that the news of the Pope's death came as a surprise, despite the Pope's declining health in recent months.
"He was sick, his voice was weak, and he appeared limited, yet he continued to greet pilgrims in Saint Peter's Square, which instilled a sense of hope in many," Omella stated. He emphasized that Pope Francis had a remarkable strength, saying, "He died with his boots on, wanting to be close to the people he loved until the very end." This dedication to service was a hallmark of Pope Francis’s papacy, as he often reached out to the marginalized and the poor.
In his final public message on April 20, the day before his death, Pope Francis called for peace in war-torn countries, urging an end to conflict and a return to dialogue. Omella highlighted this message, stating, "The Pope's last words were a plea for peace and coexistence, reminding us that we must be witnesses of hope in a troubled world." The timing of the Pope's death coincided with the Jubilee Year of Hope and Easter Sunday, which Omella described as a beautiful coincidence, symbolizing resurrection and optimism.
Reflecting on the Pope's character, Omella remarked that those closest to him noted a transformation from a serious demeanor in Buenos Aires to one of joy as Pope. "He was always smiling and spreading joy, embodying the message of hope he wanted to share with all Catholics," he added. The Cardinal urged believers to maintain faith in humanity, asserting that "the good always triumphs, even in moments of difficulty and persecution."
As the Catholic Church faces an uncertain future following the Pope's death, speculation regarding his successor has intensified. The Vatican will convene a conclave from May 6 to May 11, 2025, to elect the new Pope. The College of Cardinals, which currently comprises 252 members, will play a crucial role in this decision. Among the 138 electors—those under 80 years of age—Cardinal Juan José Omella is seen as a prominent candidate.
Born in Cretas, Spain, on April 21, 1946, Omella has been the Archbishop of Barcelona since 2015 and previously served as President of the Spanish Episcopal Conference from 2020 to 2024. His close relationship with Pope Francis and commitment to social justice make him a strong contender for the papacy. Omella has been vocal about his vision for the Church, advocating for interreligious dialogue and social outreach, as evidenced by his recent project, 'Med 25-Bella Esperanza,' aimed at fostering dialogue among youth.
Despite the speculation surrounding his candidacy, Omella has downplayed his potential role as Pope, stating, "I don’t believe I am a candidate; I know my limitations." Nevertheless, his leadership qualities and progressive outlook resonate with many who seek continuity in the Church's reformist agenda initiated by Pope Francis.
Other Spanish cardinals are also in the mix for consideration, including Carlos Osoro, the Archbishop Emeritus of Madrid, who has been recognized for his pastoral management and ability to connect with people. Additionally, figures such as Fernando Vérgez, the Governor of Vatican City, and José Cobo, the current Archbishop of Madrid, are also mentioned among potential successors.
The conclave will begin with a mass, "Pro eligendo Romano Pontífice," on May 6, 2025, at St. Peter's Basilica, where the faithful are invited to pray for the election process. Following this, the cardinals will enter the Sistine Chapel to commence voting until a new Pope is chosen, indicated by the appearance of white smoke.
As the Catholic community grieves the loss of a beloved leader, Omella's call for hope and faith resonates deeply. He noted that 120 adult catechumens were baptized in Barcelona during this Easter, a sign of renewed interest in the Church and the enduring influence of Pope Francis's message. "This is a sign of hope, showing that the Gospel still finds a place in the hearts of those seeking meaning in their lives," he remarked.
In a world often fraught with division and conflict, Omella's reflections on Pope Francis serve as a reminder of the importance of compassion and unity. As the Church prepares for a new chapter, the legacy of Pope Francis will undoubtedly shape the discussions and decisions of the coming conclave.
In these challenging times, the call for peace, justice, and hope remains as vital as ever, echoing the sentiments of a Pope who dedicated his life to the service of others.
