As the global Catholic Church prepares for a pivotal conclave beginning May 7, all eyes are turning to Cardinal Pietro Parolin—an accomplished diplomat and long-serving Vatican insider—widely considered the leading candidate to succeed the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21.
At 70, Parolin brings decades of experience in the Vatican’s upper echelons, having served as Secretary of State—effectively the Holy See’s second-in-command—for nearly the entirety of Pope Francis’s papacy. His diplomatic finesse and measured demeanor have made him a respected figure both within the Church and in global political circles.
Known for his calm presence and understated wit, Parolin is fluent in several languages and has represented the Vatican in complex geopolitical arenas across Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. His most notable diplomatic achievements include brokering the restoration of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba in 2014, and playing a central role in the landmark 2018 agreement with China regarding the joint appointment of bishops.
Read Also: The Papal Lineage of Through Apostolic Succession
A Bridge Between Continuity and Reform
If chosen as pope, Parolin is seen as someone likely to maintain continuity with the priorities of Pope Francis. His centrist stance on many contentious issues and his deep knowledge of Vatican bureaucracy—especially the Roman Curia—position him as a steady hand capable of navigating the Church through its next chapter.
However, Parolin’s candidacy is not without scrutiny. Some within the Church point out that he has not held any pastoral leadership roles and has often refrained from public comment on major social topics. This discretion, while diplomatic, has left questions about his personal views and reformist leanings.
“He’s certainly the most recognizable figure among the cardinals,” a Vatican insider told AFP anonymously. “But his institutional profile may either unite or divide, depending on how it’s perceived by the electors.”
Diplomatic Roots and Global Experience
Born on January 17, 1955, in Schiavon, a town near Venice, Parolin grew up in a devout Catholic family. Tragedy struck early with the death of his father in a car accident when he was just 10—a life event that many say sparked his calling to the priesthood.
He entered seminary at 14 and was ordained at age 25. Parolin went on to study canon law in Rome and completed his training at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, joining the Holy See’s diplomatic corps in 1986.
His early assignments took him from Nigeria and Mexico to Rwanda during a period of intense conflict, before ultimately serving as Apostolic Nuncio to Venezuela from 2009 to 2013. These diverse postings have given him a deep understanding of both the spiritual and political challenges facing the Church in different parts of the world.
A Quiet But Firm Voice on Church Doctrine
Though reserved in public discourse, Parolin has occasionally addressed critical Church issues. He has defended priestly celibacy as a valuable tradition, though not immutable doctrine. In 2023, he rejected attempts to blame the Church’s sexual abuse crisis on homosexuality, calling such arguments “indefensible.”
He has also strongly opposed abortion and surrogacy, denouncing them as violations of human dignity, and has voiced concern over modern gender ideologies that conflict with traditional Church teachings.
While his moderate approach may appeal to cardinals seeking unity, critics—especially from more conservative factions—have questioned the Vatican’s compromises in the China accord, accusing Parolin of overlooking the persecution of underground Chinese Catholics.
Read Also: Pope Francis legacy: Impact, Achievements, and a Modern Papacy
A Steady Hand in a Time of Transition
As the Catholic world enters a period of mourning and reflection, the choice of a new pope will shape the Church’s future path. Whether the conclave will embrace Pietro Parolin’s diplomatic stability or seek a more outspoken spiritual leader remains to be seen. Still, Cardinal Pietro Parolin’s name continues to top conversations in Rome and beyond.
With his unique blend of experience, discretion, and global influence, Pietro Parolin may soon move from the shadows of diplomacy to the throne of St. Peter.
