French cardinal, Archbishop of Marseille, known for his commitment to interreligious dialogue and his open pastoral approach in a multicultural city.
| Criterion | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Moral doctrine | Moderate |
| Liturgy | Moderate-progressive |
| Sociopolitical | Moderate-progressive |
| Relationship with Pope Francis | Moderate-progressive |
| Dialogue | Moderate-progressive |
| Communication | Moderate-progressive |
| Overall tendency | Moderate-progressive |
Jean-Marc Aveline was born on December 26, 1958, in Sidi Bel Abbès, French Algeria. After independence, his family settled in Marseille, where he completed his schooling. He entered the Avignon interdiocesian seminary in 1977, then continued his studies at the Carmes seminary in Paris, obtaining a double degree in theology and philosophy, as well as a master's degree in theology. In 2000, he defended a doctoral thesis entitled For a Christological Theology of Religions.
Ordained a priest on November 3, 1984, for the Archdiocese of Marseille, he held various positions related to theological training and interreligious dialogue. In 1992, he founded the Institute of Science and Theology of Religions (ISTR) in Marseille, which he directed until 2002. He was also director of the Catholic Institute of the Mediterranean and taught at the theology faculty of the Catholic University of Lyon.
Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Marseille in 2013, he became Metropolitan Archbishop of Marseille in 2019. On August 27, 2022, he was created a cardinal by Pope Francis, with the title of Cardinal Priest of Santa Maria ai Monti. He is a member of the Dicastery for Bishops and the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue.
On April 2, 2025, he was elected President of the French Bishops' Conference, with his term scheduled to begin on July 1, 2025.
Cardinal Aveline is considered moderately progressive. He supports a Church open to dialogue, attentive to contemporary challenges such as migration and secularization. He embodies a balanced line between tradition and openness, in line with Pope Francis's legacy.
He enjoys the support of influential cardinals such as Jean-Claude Hollerich and Reinhard Marx. His appointment by Pope Francis and his active participation in synods strengthen his position within the College of Cardinals. Moreover, his role as President of the French Bishops' Conference gives him additional legitimacy.
Cardinal Aveline upholds traditional Catholic moral teachings but emphasizes pastoral sensitivity and inclusion. He has condemned abortion and euthanasia as part of a 'steamroller of totalitarian ideology' that sows death. Simultaneously, he advocates for an 'unconditional and merciful welcome' to same-sex couples, indicating a progressive pastoral approach within doctrinal boundaries.
Cardinal Aveline demonstrates an open attitude toward liturgical diversity, including the Vetus Ordo Missae. His approach reflects a balance between respect for tradition and openness to liturgical innovation.
He actively addresses social issues, notably advocating for migrants and promoting social justice. His leadership reflects a commitment to the Church's role in addressing contemporary societal challenges.
A close collaborator of Pope Francis, Cardinal Aveline supports the Pope's reforms and vision for a synodal Church. His appointments to various Vatican dicasteries reflect alignment with the Pope's pastoral approach.
Cardinal Aveline actively promotes interreligious dialogue, emphasizing peaceful coexistence among diverse faiths. He founded the Institut de Science et de Théologie des Religions in Marseille, fostering mutual respect and understanding among religious communities.
Known for his pastoral sensitivity and effective communication, Cardinal Aveline engages with the faithful through thoughtful homilies and public statements. He emphasizes the Church's role in addressing contemporary societal challenges while remaining rooted in tradition.
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