{"id":2336,"date":"2025-06-01T10:36:56","date_gmt":"2025-06-01T09:36:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/?p=2336"},"modified":"2025-06-01T10:36:58","modified_gmt":"2025-06-01T09:36:58","slug":"two-cardinals-who-nearly-became-pope-instead-of-leo-xiv-one-has-a-surprising-hobby","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/time.amazingstory.blog\/?p=2336","title":{"rendered":"Two Cardinals Who Nearly Became Pope Instead of Leo XIV \u2013 One Has a Surprising Hobby"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Following a historic conclave, a new pontiff has emerged, surprising many, as he was not among the two cardinals widely seen as frontrunners, including one known for his singing abilities that had drawn both praise and criticism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away at 88, leaving his position empty in the Vatican and now the Catholic Church has a new leader, Pope Leo XIV. Two candidates who initially appeared strongest were not ultimately chosen. Here\u2019s what we know about the process and the cardinals who were expected to prevail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Vatican has a decree that outlines the timing regulations for beginning a conclave after the papal seat becomes vacant. In part, the document states that from the moment the papacy becomes vacant, 15 full days must pass before the conclave to elect a new pope begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This period allows time for all cardinal electors to arrive. However, if all the electors are already present, the College of Cardinals has the authority to start the conclave earlier. They may also delay it a few days beyond the 15, but only for serious reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After 20 days have elapsed since the vacancy began, all cardinal electors present must commence the election. The voting process begins with the distribution of ballots marked with the Latin phrase \u201cEligo in Summum Pontificem\u201d (\u201cI elect as Supreme Pontiff\u201d), where cardinals write the name of their chosen candidate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Roles are assigned by lot: three scrutineers to count votes, three infirmarii to assist sick cardinals, and three revisers to verify the count. All non-electors exit the chapel before voting begins, and the doors are sealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each cardinal elector, in order of precedence, casts their vote at the altar while reciting an oath invoking Christ as witness to the sincerity of their choice. Votes are collected in a chalice, and additional provisions are in place for those unable to walk or attend in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After all ballots are cast, they are counted and verified. If the count does not match the number of electors, the vote is nullified and repeated. Valid ballots are read aloud, tallied, pierced, threaded, and preserved. To elect a new pope, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority, at least 89 of the 133 votes in the conclave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Voting occurs up to four times daily, with ballots burned in a cast-iron stove first used in 1939. A second stove emits smoke signals from a chimney above the Sistine Chapel: black for no result, white for a successful election.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After every set of rounds without a result, pauses for prayer and spiritual exhortation are introduced. If 21 votes pass without success, the process narrows the choice to the top two candidates, though they cannot vote for themselves, and a two-thirds majority is still required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Upon election, the new pope changes into white vestments in the \u201cRoom of Tears\u201d before being introduced to the world. <\/strong>While several possible candidates had been mentioned during the 2025 vote, it was Pope Leo XIV, who was not among the top contenders, who ultimately emerged victorious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Leading Names Before the Surprise Pick<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy, 70)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Parolin was born January 17, 1955, in Schiavon, northern Italy. After entering the seminary at 14 and being ordained at 25, he pursued canon law and entered Vatican diplomatic service, with postings in Nigeria and Mexico. He later managed Church relations with multiple countries, including China, from Rome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cardinal has also been involved in other controversies, including the Vatican\u2019s financial scandal, the Order of Malta crisis, and Spain\u2019s Franco memorial negotiations\u2014though never indicted, his leadership has been questioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Pietro Parolin at the \u201cPro Eligendo Romano Pontfice\u201d final Mass on May 7, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fluent in several languages and close to Pope Francis, Parolin is seen as a pragmatic and discreet figure who might continue the late leader\u2019s reforms with more subtlety. Despite lacking parish-level pastoral experience, he is respected for his global outlook, diplomatic skill, and long tenure in Church governance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He is one of the most familiar figures to the 133 cardinal electors due to his extensive travel and longstanding role in Vatican diplomacy. Known for his mild-mannered, pragmatic style, he is widely viewed as a steady hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Vatican State Secretary Pietro Parolin speaks during the opening of the Conclave in the sistine Chapel | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019s neither overtly conservative nor progressive, and has managed delicate political situations and often stepped in to smooth over controversies caused by Pope Francis\u2019s public remarks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parolin\u2019s diplomatic track record includes managing sensitive relations with global leaders and navigating controversial moments, such as clarifying the pope\u2019s remarks on Gaza and Ukraine to foreign officials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Pietro Parolin at the final Mass with cardinals before the conclave to elect a new pope | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite never having led a diocese, his defenders argue his global diplomatic engagements have given him deep exposure to the Church\u2019s universal needs. However, his critics, particularly from conservative circles in the US and Asia, oppose his role in the 2018 secret agreement with China, which grants Beijing influence in appointing Catholic bishops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He has also faced scrutiny over his department\u2019s financial oversight, notably involving a failed $140 million London real estate deal that led to a Vatican corruption trial. Though Parolin testified, he was not accused of wrongdoing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Pietro Parolin during the Holy Mass on the ninth day of the Novendiali in Vatican City on May 4, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parolin, the Vatican\u2019s secretary of state since 2013, is perceived as a \u201ccontinuity candidate\u201d closely aligned with the late Pope Francis. He is a seasoned diplomat who has led sensitive negotiations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parolin\u2019s critics label him an ideologue too focused on diplomacy, while his supporters view him as a principled, peace-seeking realist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Pietro Parolin during the Holy Mass for the election of the Roman Pontiff in St Peters Basilica on May 7, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Seen by some as lacking Francis\u2019s charisma, Parolin is nonetheless respected for his competence and calm demeanor, with one insider likening him to \u201cClark Kent without the Superman part\u201d\u2014industrious, steady, and unflashy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cardinal visited Francis when he was in the hospital and also helped seal the papal apartments after he died. He also helped welcome cardinals he knew from around the world to the pope\u2019s funeral.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parolin was seen talking to former President Joseph R. Biden Jr., President Zelensky, and former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy. Leading up to the conclave, he celebrated an outdoor Mass for tens of thousands of faithful on the steps of St. Peter\u2019s Basilica.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Pietro Parolin during the Holy Mass in memory of the late Pope Francis | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to reports, by May 7, 2025, both Polymarket and Kalshi placed Parolin in the lead. Bettors on Polymarket, an offshore cryptocurrency-based betting site, wagered more than $21 million, while those on Kalshi, a prediction market platform legally authorized to accept bets in the US, bet $8 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parolin was generally considered more moderate than the liberal-leaning Francis, and papal experts noted him as a likely candidate. He had a 31% chance of winning the papacy on Polymarket and 32% on Kalshi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Pietro Parolin during the Holy Mass for the election of the Roman Pontiff | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle (Philippines, 67)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Born on June 21, 1957, Tagle, known affectionately as \u201cChito,\u201d hails from a well-off Filipino-Chinese background. He was originally on a path to become a physician before entering the seminary, influenced by Jesuit mentors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ordained in 1982, he earned advanced theological degrees in the US. He became known for his association with the Bologna School, which views the Second Vatican Council as a decisive break from earlier Church traditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle at the fifth Novemdiales mass held for the late Pope Francis on April 30, 2025, in Rome, Italy | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His ecclesiastical rise included serving as bishop of Imus and later archbishop of Manila. Elevated to cardinal by Benedict XVI in 2012, Tagle held leadership roles in major synods and global organizations like Caritas Internationalis. However, Pope Francis removed him from the latter\u2019s leadership in 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since 2019, he has served in Rome. He first served as prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and then as pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization. Tagle is often seen as the \u201cAsian Francis,\u201d reflecting pastoral warmth, emotional openness, and progressive leanings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While he strongly opposes abortion and euthanasia, his views on Communion, homosexuality, and interreligious dialogue are more nuanced and have drawn both praise and criticism. His involvement in rituals like the 2019 Pachamama event and vague theological statements has raised questions among traditionalists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In 2025, a controversial report alleged Tagle\u2019s indirect involvement in gambling via proxies in Macao, casting a shadow over his candidacy. Still, his global stature, experience, and alignment with Pope Francis\u2019s vision keep him in consideration, though his youth and perceived ambiguity on moral clarity may reduce his chances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle at a rosary prayer at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome on April 24, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tagle would make history as the first Asian pope, fitting for a region with a rapidly growing Catholic population. Formerly Manila\u2019s archbishop, he was once believed to be Francis\u2019s favored successor due to his progressive views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Though critical of the Church\u2019s stance on homosexual and divorced couples, Tagle maintains opposition to abortion rights in his home country. His star has dimmed recently, with signs suggesting he may have fallen out of favor within the Vatican hierarchy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal and Archbishop of the Philippines Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle at St. Peter\u2019s Basilica for the ninth Novendiale Mass on May 4, 2025, in Vatican City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fluent in multiple languages, Tagle remains a notable figure with both devoted followers and skeptical critics. He is admired for his down-to-earth style\u2014riding public transport, dining with the poor, and enthusiastically singing and dancing, earning him the nickname \u201ckaraoke priest.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In April 2025, a video of him dressed down in casual clothing while singing on stage went on the rounds on X. The post of him belting out John Lennon\u2019s \u201cImagine\u201d brought up questions about him betraying Catholic teachings because of the song\u2019s lyrics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, it was reported that Tagle altered the lyrics to avoid including anything against religion. Seeing the clip, one person said, \u201cKaraoke in the Vatican every Friday night\u2026 Pontifical High Mass hitting like crazy every time\u2026May God grant us a pope who has the karaoke singing genes embedded in him\u2026. [sic]\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle at the recitation of the Holy Rosary for Pope Francis on March 1, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another commented, \u201cPinoy Papa, let\u2019s gooooo [sic],\u201d<\/em> while someone else also approved, writing, \u201cKaraoke every Friday night.\u201d<\/em> He appeared in another jolly clip that same month, singing and gesturing with his hands and fingers while dressed in his cardinal clothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Seeing the clip, one fan stated, \u201cHE IS THE ONE.\u201d <\/em>A netizen questioned, \u201chow can you not like him \u2026 [sic],\u201d<\/em> adding, \u201cTagle forever \u2763\ufe0f.\u201d<\/em> Someone else confessed, \u201cI love this man. It\u2019s what we need. \ud83d\udc4d\ud83c\udffb\u2764\ufe0f.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unfortunately, the cardinal was judged harshly that month for dancing with a statue of Jesus at an event. One critic wrote, \u201cZero tolerance for this.\u201d<\/em> The same person also noted, \u201cMass isn\u2019t a talent show for your culture. Christ\u2019s death isn\u2019t your excuse for a dance party. Reverence isn\u2019t \u2018ignorance\u2019 it\u2019s [sic] the minimum God deserves. Keep coping. The sacred will survive your tantrum.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle at a mass led by Pope Francis at the opening of the XVI General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, at St. Peter\u2019s Square in Vatican City, Vatican, on October 4, 2023 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone else added, \u201cIf he is chosen as Pope, consider the damage that these seeds of distrust could cause in the hearts of many. We must be careful not to turn a possible anointed leader of the Church into an enemy through careless words. Please be mindful not to sow division where unity is needed most.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
While another remarked, \u201cOk ok ok Dear Lord Jesus Christ please Tagle No!! Papachito NO!! [sic]\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Critics also argue he\u2019s been too passive, with some pointing to the lack of published protocols in Manila. Tagle was also seen as too cautious in addressing former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte\u2019s war on illegal substances, initially remaining silent before later condemning the killings in a 2017 letter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He opposes abortion and the Philippines\u2019 reproductive health law but avoids confrontational rhetoric. If elected pope, he would be the first Asian in the role and a source of immense pride for the Philippines, a devout Catholic nation that has long felt peripheral to Vatican power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle leaves the Synod Hall at the end of a session of the Synod on the themes of family in Vatican City, Vatican, on October 7, 2014 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tagle is praised for listening to the marginalized and embodying a Church that is pastoral and compassionate. He drew comparisons with the late pope and ranked second after Parolin with 20% odds on Polymarket and a 21% chance on Kalshi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other Contenders Before the Final Choice<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Peter Turkson (Ghana, 76)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Turkson, a veteran cardinal and advocate for social justice, could become the first Black pope in centuries. He is known for his vocal positions on climate change, poverty, and economic inequality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While traditionally conservative on Church doctrines regarding marriage and priesthood, he has criticized the severity of anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Africa. He also remains outspoken against corruption and human rights abuses, showing a balance of tradition and reform. Turkson ranked fifth for the papacy on Polymarket with seven percent odds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Peter Turkson at \u201cThe Reconstructing the Future for People and Planet\u201d conference in the Vatican Gardens on June 9, 2022, in Vatican City, Vatican | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A stalwart conservative, Erd\u0151 stands in ideological contrast to Francis. He is seen as a potential pivot away from the progressive papacy. An intellectual and cultural figure, he garnered support from the late Cardinal George Pell, who admired his legalist stance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In 2015, Erd\u0151 drew attention by indirectly aligning with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orb\u00e1n in rejecting Francis\u2019s appeal to churches to shelter migrants, reinforcing his traditionalist credentials. Erd\u0151 ranked fifth for the papacy on Kalshi with a seven percent chance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Ungarian Cardinal and Archbisop of Budapest P\u00e9ter Erd\u0151 at the Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice Mass on March 12, 2013, in Vatican City, Vatican | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matteo Zuppi (Italy, 69)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Zuppi, a key figure on the Church\u2019s progressive side, has been a vocal advocate for social justice and peace, echoing Francis\u2019s priorities. Appointed a cardinal in 2019 and later a Vatican envoy to Ukraine, he played a diplomatic role in seeking peace during the war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He met both Patriarch Kirill, the leader of the Russian Orthodox church, and Russian President Vladimir Putin\u2019s ally, and Ukraine\u2019s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zuppi\u2019s liberal approach to same-sex relationships and active humanitarian engagement positions him as a forward-looking candidate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Zuppi ranked third with eight percent on Polymarket and fourth for the papacy in Kalshi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi at the Seventh Novemdiale mass in The Vatican, on May 2, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Jos\u00e9 Tolentino Cala\u00e7a de Mendon\u00e7a (Portugal, 59)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tolentino is one of the youngest candidates mentioned, which could be a disadvantage in a field where longevity matters. He is closely aligned with the late Francis and holds modern views that have stirred debate, including openness to same-sex relationships and ties to a pro-choice Benedictine feminist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite his youth, he is recognized for urging the Church to engage constructively with modern culture, aligning with Francis\u2019s inclusive vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Jos\u00e9 Tolentino Cala\u00e7a de Mendon\u00e7a and Whoopi Goldberg in the Galleria Lapidaria of the Vatican Apostolic Palace at the Apostolic Palace on June 14, 2024, in Vatican City | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mario Grech (Malta, 68)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Initially known for traditional views, Grech evolved after Francis\u2019s election, adopting more progressive positions. He has spoken in favor of ordaining female deacons and has taken moral stances against European political decisions limiting humanitarian aid to migrants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His capacity to grow ideologically has drawn praise, suggesting adaptability and a broadening of vision under Francis\u2019s influence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Mario Grech at a media interview in St Peter\u2019s square on March 15, 2025, in Vatican City, Vatican | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Serving as the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem since 2020, Pizzaballa has been a pivotal advocate for Christians in the Holy Land. His humanitarian gesture\u2014offering himself in exchange for children held hostage by Hamas in 2023\u2014highlighted his moral courage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He later visited Gaza after lengthy negotiations. Though he\u2019s not known for provocative theological stances, his pastoral leadership in conflict zones enhances his stature. Pizzaballa ranked fourth with nine percent and on Kalshi, he was placed third for the papacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa at the Ninth Mass of Novendiale in Suffrage for Pope Francis at St. Peter\u2019s Basilica on May 4, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Robert Sarah (Guinea, 79)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sarah, a deeply conservative figure, has been a prominent critic of modern cultural shifts, warning against \u201cgender ideology\u201d and Islamic extremism. His co-authored 2020 book defending priestly celibacy was widely seen as a direct challenge to Francis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He previously sought to shape Vatican influence as an alternative moral authority. Despite his age, his unwavering orthodoxy and intellectual gravitas make him a defining voice among tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cardinal Robert Sarah at a mass at the St Peter\u2019s basilica on March 12, 2013, at the Vatican | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pope Leo XIV Takes the Helm<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Robert Francis Prevost (United States, 69)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The 2025 papal conclave at the Vatican ended with the election of American-born Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV on May 8.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Upon election, the newly elected pontiff stepped onto the balcony and his first words, \u201cPeace be with all of you!\u201d echoed across St. Peter\u2019s Square. Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti formally announced him as the 267th Bishop of Rome to the waiting crowd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Pope Leo XIV is seen on the Saint Peter\u2019s Basilica balcony, at Saint Peter\u2019s Square in Vatican on April 8, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Prevost, a moderate American cardinal, faced the usual skepticism reserved for US papal contenders due to geopolitical concerns. Nonetheless, his influence has grown following his 2023 elevation by Francis and his role in the Dicastery for Bishops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He brings global Church experience, notably from missionary work in Peru, and holds respected leadership credentials from his time heading the Augustinian order. His profile marked him as a serious, albeit unconventional, candidate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That unconventionality made his election a surprise\u2014one that stirred a wide range of reactions across social media.\u201d Some users expressed disappointment and frustration. One person simply declared, \u201cRigged.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another questioned the Vatican\u2019s choice, \u201cWhy not a black pope or an asian pope?\u201d<\/em> A different user echoed the sentiment, \u201cShould\u2019ve been a black or an asian one.\u201d <\/em>Others went further in their disapproval with a strongly worded comment reading, \u201cWhat a horrible pick Seriously Catholics must be ashamed of the Vatican What a joke woke.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Pope Leo XIV, on April 8, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another skeptic remarked, \u201cSurprise, it\u2019s an American. To be honest, this isn\u2019t a sign of hope. I pray to be wrong.\u201d <\/em>Still, there were also those who embraced the unexpected with faith as one hopeful user reflected, \u201cGod works in mysterious ways!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even so, some responses carried a tone of concern over the Church\u2019s direction, \u201cWow \ud83d\ude33\u2026 Congratulations to him \ud83c\udf89 I thought the church was sceptical about a USA cardinal as a pope for fear of their liberal nature and openness to new world order\u2026?\ud83d\ude33\ud83d\ude33 I guess the days of fear of the church core traditions and teachings being diluted are over \ud83e\udd37\ud83c\udffe\u200d\u2642\ufe0f.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Pope Leo XIV at Saint Peter\u2019s Square in Vatican on April 8, 2025 | Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pope Leo XIV now begins his papacy amidst global expectations, as people look to him<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Pope](\"https:\/\/cdn.amomama.com\/aa3cf4540086f8ca62885f5494f36542adb68413743a94a7b7600744ff98f4e6.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Pope](\"https:\/\/cdn.amomama.com\/1e0a6765bcabc72625586369e93f337dfb1da1f37ea1653da1500d45143bc789.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"Pope](\"https:\/\/cdn.amomama.com\/13c4c87d02ba113e3c6bb3eee123e4460a1d40661b7bbba2e61caa4baf384ad4.jpg\")
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