Successor: Over 800-Year-Old Prophecy About the Next Pope Resurfaces After Pope Francis' Death
- Following Pope Francis' death, renewed speculation surrounded the over-800-year-old Prophecy of the Popes, which allegedly predicted both the identity of the next pontiff and the end of times
- The prophecy, attributed to Saint Malachy, suggested that the final pope, known as Peter the Roman, would lead the Church during a period of great turmoil, culminating in the destruction of Rome in 2027
- While some believers cited the mysterious text as compelling evidence, many scholars widely disagreed, arguing that its cryptic passages may have been misinterpreted or misattributed over time
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, discussions surrounding an over-800-year-old prophetic book resurfaced. The ancient text prophesied both the next leader of the Catholic Church and the end of the world.
The prophecy, linked to Saint Malachy, consisted of 112 cryptic Latin phrases that allegedly outlined the papal succession from Celestine II in 1143 to the mysterious “Peter the Roman”, who is expected to preside in 2027.
Source: Getty Images
Pope Francis: Conclave begins search for new leader
With Pope Francis’ passing, Catholic Church leaders have begun preparations to elect his successor through a conclave of 120 cardinals, all under the age of 80.
According to the New York Post, the election process will involve four daily ballots until a two-thirds majority determines the new pontiff.
However, believers in the Prophecy of the Popes claimed the outcome had already been foretold, particularly as three of the leading candidates reportedly bear the name Peter, fueling speculation that “Peter the Roman” may soon take charge.
Pope Francis' death: End-times theories gain traction
Beyond selecting the next pope, the prophecy’s final passage has stirred end-times concerns among some faithful, linking the arrival of Peter the Roman to Judgement Day in 2027.
The text suggests that this pope will lead during a period of great tribulation, culminating in the destruction of Rome and divine judgement.
French astrologer Michel de Nostredame (Nostradamus) is also said to have predicted Peter the Roman’s reign, further adding to the intrigue surrounding the next papal appointment.
Source: Getty Images
Pope Francis: Scholarly scepticism surrounds ancient predictions
Despite the fascination surrounding the prophecy, historians argue that the text, discovered in 1590, may have been written for political purposes.
Many scholars assert that its predictions became deliberately vague after its discovery, leaving interpretations highly subjective.
As the world watches the selection of the new pope, believers and sceptics alike continue to debate the legitimacy of Saint Malachy’s prophecy and its supposed forewarning of the end of times.
900-year-old prophecy emerges following Pope Francis’ death
Legit.ng earlier reported that new interest has reignited in a 900-year-old book, “The Prophecy of the Popes”, which allegedly predicted that Judgement Day will occur in 2027.
The text, attributed to Irish bishop Saint Malachy, was reportedly discovered in 1590 by Benedictine monk Arnold Wion.
According to EuroNews, the book contains 112 Latin phrases, each believed to correspond to the reigns of different Catholic popes, beginning with Celestine II.
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Source: Legit.ng
