Who succeeds Pope Benedict XVI?

Answer 1

Any male Catholic is a potential contender to be pope. However, in practicality, the election usually goes to an older and experienced cardinal. It is much too early to even think about a successor to Pope Francis. Remember this, Francis was not even mentioned as a possible contender for the papacy by the media in the days preceding the conclave of March, 2013. The same can be said for Pope John Paul II. His election was a surprise to the entire world in 1978.

Answer 2

As of March 13, 2013, he was replaced by Jorge Mario Cardinal Bergoglio of Argentina who took the name of Pope Francis.

Answer 3

Benedict XVI retired on February 28, 2013, and Pope Francis was chosen to fill the position on March 13, 2013.