Cardinal’s German Pope Chances
Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller: A Potential Successor to Pope Francis?
Updated: april 30, 2025, 4:41 a.m.
By Christoph Gschoßmann and Michelle Brey
ROME – Following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, the Catholic world turns to the selection of his successor.Even before the pontiff’s passing, speculation had begun, and now ancient rites will commence, culminating in a conclave 15 to 20 days after the start of the Sedisvacante period with a Mass in St.Peter’s Basilica. Among the names being discussed is a cardinal from Germany.
Müller’s Name Surfaces as Potential papal Candidate
Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller is among those considered a possible successor to Pope Francis. The College of Cardinals Report describes Müller as “intelligent and honest,” also noting him as a “determined and down-to-earth leader who acts courageously if necessary.” Some observers have drawn comparisons between Müller and former U.S. President Donald Trump, though the basis for this comparison remains unclear.
Müller has, at times, courted controversy. He has been accused of spreading conspiracy theories related to the coronavirus pandemic.In a tweeted video, he voiced concerns that the pandemic could be used to implement “total control” and introduce an ”agenda based on stacking,” suggesting the use of technology to create a “new creation.”
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Müller has been critical of Russian President Vladimir Putin. After visiting the Polish-Ukrainian border and witnessing the refugee crisis firsthand, he told Vatican News,”That was the lonely decision of an individual who can cause such a mischief—thousands,thousands of millions of people on the run!” He stated that he witnessed “what the effects of evil are” at the border.
From Regensburg to Rome: Müller’s Path
Born in Mainz in 1947, Müller studied philosophy and theology in Mainz, Munich, and Freiburg. Pope John paul II appointed him Bishop of Regensburg in 2002. In 2012, Pope Benedict XVI brought him to Rome as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF).
Two years later, pope Francis appointed Müller a cardinal deacon. Though, in 2017, Francis did not extend Müller’s term as CDF president. Despite this,Müller has maintained a public profile and strengthened his position within the Church.
Müller identifies as simply “Catholic,” rather than conservative. As Bishop of Regensburg, he addressed the church’s abuse crisis, engaging with various groups on the issue. Allegations arose that Müller had hindered the dissemination of data regarding abuse cases within the Regensburg cathedral choir.
Clear Stance on Women Priests
Within the Church, Müller is considered largely loyal, avoiding direct criticism of Pope Francis despite disagreements. He firmly opposes the ordination of women as priests or deacons and has criticized the blessing of same-sex couples as “blasphemy.” He remains a staunch defender of priestly celibacy.
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Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller: Your Questions Answered
Q: Who is Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, and why is his name being discussed?
A: Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller is a prominent figure within the Catholic Church, currently considered a potential successor to Pope Francis. The possibility is being discussed following Pope Francis’ death on Easter Monday, which has set the stage for a conclave to elect the next Pontiff.
Q: What Are Cardinal Müller’s Qualifications and Noteworthy Attributes?
A: The College of Cardinals Report describes Müller as “clever and honest,” also noting him as a “resolute and down-to-earth leader who acts courageously if necessary.”
Q: What is Cardinal Müller’s background?
A: Born in Mainz in 1947, Müller has a strong academic background. He studied beliefs and theology in Mainz, munich, and Freiburg before being appointed Bishop of Regensburg in 2002 by Pope John Paul II.Pope Benedict XVI later brought him to Rome in 2012 as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF).Pope Francis appointed him a cardinal deacon in 2014.
Q: What controversies has Müller been involved in?
A: Müller has faced public criticism at times. He has been accused of spreading conspiracy theories related to the coronavirus pandemic. He has also been associated with allegations of hindering the dissemination of data regarding abuse cases within the Regensburg cathedral choir while he was bishop.
Q: what are Cardinal Müller’s views on current Church issues?
A: Müller holds clear stances on several crucial issues. He firmly opposes the ordination of women as priests or deacons, and he has criticized the blessing of same-sex couples as “blasphemy.” He is a staunch defender of priestly celibacy.
Q: How does Müller feel about the war in Ukraine?
A: Müller has taken a clear stance.He has been critical of Russian President Vladimir Putin. After visiting the Polish-Ukrainian border, he stated that he witnessed “what the effects of evil are” at the border. He referred to Putin’s decision as “the lonely decision of an individual who can cause such a mischief—thousands, thousands of millions of people on the run!”
Q: Has Cardinal Müller Always Agreed With Pope Francis?
A: while considered largely loyal to the Church, Müller has disagreed with Pope Francis on some issues. Though, he has generally avoided direct criticism.