Background and Functions

Born on September 24, 1949, in Sorengo, Switzerland, to Swedish parents, Anders Arborelius grew up in Lund, in southern Sweden. Coming from a non-practicing Lutheran family, he converted to Catholicism at the age of 20, after being influenced by the Bridgettine sisters and reading the autobiography of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. Two years later, he entered the Discalced Carmelites at the monastery of Norraby. He made his perpetual vows in 1977 in Bruges and was ordained a priest in 1979 in Malmö.

Holding a degree in modern languages from the University of Lund and a doctorate in theology from the Teresianum in Rome, he was appointed Bishop of Stockholm in 1998 by John Paul II, thus becoming the first Swedish Catholic bishop since the Reformation. In 2017, Pope Francis created him a cardinal, making him the first cardinal in the history of Sweden and Scandinavia.

Within the Roman Curia, he has been a member of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, the Congregation for the Clergy, the Congregation for Eastern Churches, the Council for the Economy, and the Dicastery for Bishops. He also presided over the Scandinavian Bishops' Conference from 2005 to 2015.

Analysis of His Election Chances

Strengths and Assets

• Pastoral experience in a minority context: As head of a Catholic Church representing about 1.5% of the Swedish population, he has managed a diverse community, consisting mostly of immigrants, promoting unity and integration.

• Ecumenical commitment: A key player in interfaith dialogue in Sweden, he has worked closely with Lutheran authorities, particularly during Pope Francis' visit in 2016 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.

• Proximity to the peripheries: His elevation to the cardinalate by Pope Francis symbolizes the attention given to Churches in geographical and cultural peripheries.

• Reputation for moderation: Appreciated by both conservatives and progressives, he is perceived as a consensus figure within the Church.

Weaknesses and Factors Limiting His Election

• Advanced age: At 75 years old, if elected, he would be one of the oldest popes at the time of his election, which might dissuade cardinals wishing for a longer pontificate.

• Limited visibility: Little known outside Scandinavia, he does not enjoy the international reputation of other papabili.

• Lack of diplomatic experience: Unlike some candidates who have held diplomatic posts within the Holy See, he does not have a background in this field.

Ideological Positioning

Cardinal Arborelius is considered moderate, with a deep spiritual sensitivity inherited from his Carmelite formation. He emphasizes mercy, unity, and dialogue, while remaining faithful to the traditional teaching of the Church. He has expressed his discomfort with speculation about the conclave and emphasized the importance of not politicizing the papal election.

Network and Weight Within the College of Cardinals

Although he is not among the most influential figures in the College of Cardinals, his participation in various dicasteries and his commitment to Christian unity give him a certain recognition. His profile as a humble and experienced pastor could appeal to cardinals looking for a transitional candidate, capable of maintaining balance within the Church.