Cardinal Parolin May Lead as New Pope Amid Vatican Conclave Tensions

VATICAN CITY, May 7, 2025 — As 133 cardinals prepare to enter a conclave to elect the next pope, many are looking to Cardinal Pietro Parolin as a strong candidate. Parolin, the Vatican‘s secretary of state, has held this position for 12 years, giving him significant experience within the Church’s leadership.

At 70 years old, Parolin has built relationships with cardinals from around the world, making him a familiar figure among the electors in the Sistine Chapel. He is known for being a steady diplomat, navigating complex issues on behalf of the Church while managing the delicate balance of differing viewpoints among clergy.

One prominent cleric noted, “He knows how to take a punch for the number one and for the institution,” referring to his ability to handle the late Pope Francis‘s controversial statements with diplomacy. Parolin has been vital in smoothing over tensions, like those following the late pope’s comments regarding Israel and Ukraine.

Born in a small town in Italy’s Veneto region, Parolin took his first steps in Church service at the age of 14. His diplomatic career spans decades, primarily focused on fostering international relationships for the Vatican. Despite criticisms regarding the Church’s dealings with China or the fallout from a failed real estate investment, supporters view him as a pragmatic choice in a period of need for stability.

The conclave, which begins with the cardinals casting votes throughout the day, will seek an heir to Pope Francis, whose tenure shifted the Church’s focus on social issues. Many anticipate the significance behind the name chosen by the new pope, which could signal a continuation of Francis’s agenda or a shift back to traditional Catholic values.

With high-level security in place to ensure secrecy, including deactivation of cellphone towers around the Vatican, the cardinals will meet away from public scrutiny. They are tasked with a momentous decision, similar to the one faced in March 2013 when Pope Francis was elected after a surprising conclave.

As the world watches, the cardinals’ deliberations could resonate deeply within the Church, reflecting both past traditions and future directions. The announcement of the new pope’s name could shape the global Catholic community’s trajectory for years ahead.