In May 2025, the eyes of the world will turn to Vatican City as the College of Cardinals gathers for a conclave to elect a new pope—successor to Pope Francis. Among the 133 cardinal electors, a strong representation from Central and Eastern Europe will take part. This region, marked by deep-rooted faith and a complex history, will bring an important voice to the global Church—one that balances tradition and modernity.

The Polish Delegation

Poland will send four cardinals to the conclave—senior church leaders recognized both at home and in the Vatican:

• Cardinal Stanisław Ryłko – retired president of the Pontifical Council for the Laity and archpriest of the Basilica of St. Mary Major. With decades of service in the Roman Curia, he will be a respected voice in the deliberations.
• Cardinal Kazimierz Nycz – former Archbishop of Warsaw, expected to contribute a perspective shaped by Poland’s contemporary religious and social challenges.
• Cardinal Konrad Krajewski – the Papal Almoner, known for his charitable work and commitment to the poor. He will bring the voice of mercy and outreach to the proceedings.
• Cardinal Grzegorz Ryś – the dynamic Archbishop of Łódź, noted for his openness to youth and interfaith dialogue. He will likely represent a more modern face of the Church.

Cardinals from the Region

In addition to the Polish cardinals, several others from neighboring countries will participate:

• Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary) – Primate of Hungary and a respected theologian, his voice will carry intellectual and pastoral weight.
• Cardinal Josip Bozanić (Croatia) – retired Archbishop of Zagreb, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church of the Balkans.
• Cardinal Franc Rodé (Slovenia) – former Prefect of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life, bringing decades of Vatican experience.
• Cardinal Audrys Juozas Bačkis (Lithuania) – former Archbishop of Vilnius, representing the resilience of the Church in post-Soviet societies.
• Cardinal Jānis Pujats (Latvia) – retired Archbishop of Riga, known for his strong defense of traditional Catholic doctrine.
• Cardinal Mykola Bychok (Ukraine) – the youngest participant, a Greek Catholic bishop serving in Australia, symbolizing the new generation of clergy and the Eastern Catholic tradition.

Central and Eastern Europe – A Voice of Tradition and Hope

The cardinals from Central and Eastern Europe will bring with them a wide range of experiences—from underground faith during persecution to navigating modern secularism. Their perspectives are likely to influence the election of the next pope and the future direction of the Church.

While the outcome of the conclave remains unknown, one thing is certain: Central and Eastern Europe will have a meaningful and significant role in shaping the next chapter of Catholic leadership.