The late pontiff’s health concerns in recent years led to contenders to succeed him foreseeing a papabile ahead of his death

Pope Francis’ death fires the gun on what many see as a battle for the soul of the church – pitting those who want to continue his progressive reforms against a small but powerful group who want to reverse them.

The camerlengo will oversee the transition into the new papacy, including preparing the conclave that will select the next pope.