Portuguese cardinal, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, poet and intellectual, known for his openness to dialogue with contemporary culture and his renewed pastoral vision.
| Criterion | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Moral doctrine | Progressive |
| Liturgy | Moderate-progressive |
| Sociopolitical | Progressive |
| Relationship with Pope Francis | Very progressive |
| Dialogue | Very progressive |
| Communication | Progressive |
| Overall tendency | Progressive |
Born on December 15, 1965, in Machico, on the island of Madeira, Portugal, José Tolentino de Mendonça was ordained a priest on July 28, 1990. With a doctorate in biblical theology, he distinguished himself through a notable academic and literary career, publishing works of poetry, essays, and theater. (José Tolentino de Mendonça)
In 2011, he became a consultant to the Pontifical Council for Culture. In June 2018, Pope Francis appointed him Archivist and Librarian of the Holy Roman Church, and he was consecrated as the titular bishop of Suava on July 28, 2018. On October 5, 2019, he was created a cardinal-deacon of Santi Domenico e Sisto. (Profiles of Pope Francis' New Cardinals - National Catholic Register, José Tolentino de Mendonça)
On September 26, 2022, he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, a strategic position within the Roman Curia. He is also a member of several important dicasteries, including those for the Evangelization of Peoples, the Causes of Saints, Bishops, Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, as well as the Doctrine of the Faith. (José Tolentino de Mendonça)
Cardinal Tolentino de Mendonça is considered one of the most progressive papabili, advocating for an open, dialoguing Church attentive to contemporary realities. (José Tolentino de Mendonça)
He benefits from the support of the Community of Sant'Egidio, influential in progressive ecclesiastical circles. His proximity to Pope Francis and his responsibilities within the Curia strengthen his network and influence. (José Tolentino de Mendonça)
Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça has expressed sympathy for a more tolerant approach to same-sex relationships than the Church has traditionally allowed, arguing on several occasions that the Vatican should engage more willingly with cultural changes and modernity. He has also aligned himself with a feminist Benedictine sister who supports women's ordination and is pro-choice. However, he has not publicly called for changes to Church doctrine on these matters.
Cardinal Tolentino emphasizes the importance of engaging with culture as central to Catholic life, stating that 'we cannot close the Christian experience in a kind of parenthesis that is only the liturgy.' This suggests a balanced approach that values tradition while being open to cultural engagement.
As Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, Cardinal Tolentino has been active in promoting the Global Compact on Education and has addressed themes such as social justice and the importance of cultural engagement. His work reflects a commitment to addressing contemporary societal challenges.
Cardinal Tolentino is a close collaborator of Pope Francis, sharing his vision for a Church that engages with modern culture. He has been appointed to several key positions by Pope Francis, including Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education.
Cardinal Tolentino has emphasized the importance of dialogue and engagement with diverse cultural and religious perspectives. His work often focuses on building bridges and fostering mutual understanding.
Known as 'the poet cardinal,' Cardinal Tolentino is recognized for his effective communication and engagement 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.
Portuguese cardinal, Patriarch Emeritus of Lisbon, known for his balanced leadership and pastoral vision that respects tradition while dialoguing with contemporary society.
Portuguese cardinal recognized for his pastoral dynamism and modern communication, close to Pope Francis' positions on Church openness.
Portuguese cardinal known for his pastoral approach and openness to modern issues, while maintaining a balance with tradition.
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