Who Are the Oldest Cardinals in the 2025 Conclave?

The upcoming 2025 papal conclave is set to be a significant event in the Catholic Church, with cardinals from around the globe gathering to elect a new pope. However, not all cardinals will have a say in the election process. 

Under the current rules, only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, a limitation introduced by Pope Paul VI in the 1970s and reaffirmed by Pope John Paul II in 1996. This means that while the conclave will include a total of 134 electors, 15 cardinals are nearing the age cutoff, with some just weeks away from turning 80.

Among those still eligible, a select few stand out due to their impressive contributions to the Church, their vast experience, and the wisdom they bring to the table. Let’s take a look at the five oldest cardinals eligible to vote in the 2025 conclave:

Cardinal Carlos Osoro Sierra (Spain) – Born May 16, 1945Cardinal Carlos Osoro Sierra is a well-respected figure in Spain’s Catholic community. He served as the archbishop of Valencia and Oviedo before taking on the role of archbishop of Madrid in 2014, a position he held until his retirement. 

Osoro’s dedication to pastoral work and Catholic education has made him a beloved figure among the faithful. His motto, “Per Christum et cum ipso et in ipso,” reflects his deep commitment to living through Christ.

Osoro’s reputation as a caring and approachable leader continues to resonate within the Church, making him an important voice as the 2025 conclave approaches. His contributions to the Spanish Church and his long-standing service to the Vatican will undoubtedly shape his legacy as one of the most senior cardinals.

Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea) – Born June 15, 1945Cardinal Robert Sarah is known for his theological depth and strong commitment to traditional Catholic teachings. 

Over the years, Sarah has held several prestigious positions within the Vatican, including serving as the prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments. He is also a prolific author, with many works focusing on the liturgy and spiritual life.

In addition to his influential writings, Cardinal Sarah is a prominent figure among conservative Catholics and has been frequently mentioned as a potential candidate for the papacy. 

His experience in the Roman Curia and his global recognition make him one of the most influential voices in the 2025 conclave.

Cardinal Stanisław Ryłko (Poland) – Born July 4, 1945A close collaborator of Pope John Paul II, Cardinal Stanisław Ryłko spent much of his career in the Roman Curia, where he helped shape important lay Catholic initiatives. 

As the former president of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, Ryłko’s work has had a lasting impact on the relationship between the Vatican and lay Catholics worldwide.

Ryłko’s connection to Pope John Paul II, coupled with his decades of experience in the Vatican, ensures that he remains a key figure in the conclave. His vast knowledge of the inner workings of the Church and his dedication to serving the faithful make him a respected member of the 2025 conclave.

Cardinal Joseph Coutts (Pakistan) – Born July 21, 1945As one of only two cardinals from Pakistan, Cardinal Joseph Coutts has been an influential figure in his country’s Catholic community. Known for his advocacy for interfaith dialogue and peace, Coutts has dedicated much of his ministry to promoting understanding between Christians and Muslims. 

His work culminated in his participation in the signing of the Human Fraternity document in 2019, a historic collaboration between Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar.

Coutts’ experience in navigating complex religious and political landscapes adds an important perspective to the conclave. His commitment to peace and dialogue has shaped his ministry, making him a significant figure as the Church faces new challenges in an increasingly polarized world.

Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe (England) – Born August 22, 1945Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, a former master of the Dominican Order, is renowned for his preaching and spiritual guidance. Radcliffe has spent much of his life in education and theology, teaching Scripture and doctrine at Oxford University before assuming leadership of the Order of Preachers. 

His episcopal motto, “Vos Autem Dixi Amicos,” or “I have called you friends,” reflects his focus on building relationships and fostering spiritual growth.

Radcliffe’s deep theological insight and his ability to communicate effectively with both clergy and laity make him an influential voice in the upcoming conclave. He has also been involved in the Synod on Synodality, where his leadership has helped guide participants through critical discussions on the future of the Church.