Cardinal Pietro Parolin, a veteran Vatican diplomat with a calm demeanor and extensive global experience, has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. As the conclave of cardinals prepares to convene on May 7, the 70-year-old Italian is widely regarded as a figure of continuity and moderation.
Parolin has served as the Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013, essentially the Holy See’s second-in-command. Fluent in multiple languages and known for his subtle humor and discretion, Parolin has been at the forefront of the Church’s diplomatic engagements. Notably, he played a key role in the 2014 restoration of diplomatic ties between the United States and Cuba and brokered the controversial 2018 agreement with China on the appointment of bishops—an effort to bridge gaps between the state-sanctioned and underground churches in China.
Though highly visible internationally, Parolin has never held pastoral responsibilities, leading some observers to question how well he can connect with everyday believers. Critics also point to his institutional nature and reluctance to publicly comment on social issues, which has left many guessing about his deeper views.
Still, Parolin’s positions suggest a nuanced continuity with Francis. He has defended priestly celibacy as a sacred tradition but acknowledged it is not a dogma, and in 2023, he labeled attempts to link homosexuality with clergy abuse as “indefensible.” He remains firm in his opposition to abortion, surrogacy, and gender ideology, advocating for the dignity of life and the consistency of Catholic doctrine.
Born near Venice in 1955, Parolin entered the seminary at 14 and joined the Vatican’s diplomatic corps in 1986. His four-decade-long service includes missions in Nigeria, Mexico, Rwanda, and Venezuela. His diplomatic finesse and ability to navigate Church factions make him a strong consensus candidate.
As the Church faces complex global challenges, Parolin’s blend of tradition, diplomacy, and measured reform could position him as the ideal leader to guide the Catholic Church into a new era.
