Ancient Prophecy Foretells Next Pope Post-Francis and Issues Dire Warning for Humanity

Pope Francis’ Death Revives Ancient Prophecy of “Peter the Roman” and 2027 Judgment Day

Pope Francis’ sudden death at 88 has reignited interest in the 12th-century Prophecy of the Popes, a cryptic manuscript attributed to Saint Malachy. The text, allegedly discovered in Vatican archives, describes 112 popes starting in 1143 and ends with “Peter the Roman,” who is said to preside over the Church’s collapse before Judgment Day in 2027.

The Prophecy’s Eerie Predictions

The document’s final entry claims: “In the final persecution… Peter the Roman will feed his flock amid tribulations… after which the seven-hilled city [Rome] will be destroyed, and the dreadful Judge will judge the people.” With Francis’ passing, speculation centers on his successor—nine cardinals are frontrunners, three named Peter:

• Peter Erdő (Hungary), a conservative leader.
• Peter Turkson (Ghana), a social justice advocate.
• Pietro Parolin (Italy), a seasoned Vatican diplomat.

While some linked Francis to “Peter the Roman” due to his Italian roots (born Giovanni di Pietro), the prophecy suggests his successor could fulfill the ominous role.

Timeline to Judgment Day

Scholars note the prophecy’s timeline: if its midpoint was 1585 under Pope Sixtus V, the end date aligns with 2027—20 months after Francis’ death. Many Christians interpret this as the Second Coming of Christ, though the Vatican has never endorsed the text.

Historical Accuracy and Skepticism

The prophecy’s descriptions of popes before 1590 are strikingly precise:

• “The glory of the Olive” matched Pope Benedict XVI (2005–2013), linked to the Olivetan order.
• “Of the eclipse of the sun” fit John Paul II (1978–2005), born during a solar eclipse.

However, post-1590 entries grow vague, fueling claims the text is a 16th-century forgery. Still, its influence persists. In 1958, Cardinal Spellman famously staged a boat parade with sheep to align with a prophecy motto.

The Road Ahead

Following a nine-day mourning period, cardinals under 80 will convene in Rome to elect Francis’ successor via conclave, requiring a two-thirds vote. The process, steeped in tradition, now unfolds under the shadow of Malachy’s predictions.

While scholars debate the prophecy’s legitimacy, its resurgence highlights enduring fascination with apocalyptic lore—and the weight of history as the Church faces an uncertain future.

(Images: Pope Francis at Easter 2025; pages from the Prophecy of the Popes; cardinals Erdő, Turkson, and Parolin; mourners in Buenos Aires.)

Word count: 598