Italian cardinal, Secretary of State of the Holy See, experienced diplomat, known for his moderation and expertise in international relations, while maintaining balance with traditional doctrine.
| Criterion | Tendency |
|---|---|
| Moral doctrine | Conservative |
| Liturgy | Moderate-conservative |
| Sociopolitical | Moderate |
| Relationship with Pope Francis | Very progressive |
| Dialogue | Moderate-progressive |
| Communication | Moderate-progressive |
| Overall tendency | Moderate-progressive |
Born on January 17, 1955, in Schiavon, in the province of Vicenza (Italy), Pietro Parolin was ordained a priest in 1980. After a brief pastoral experience, he joined the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy in 1983, thus beginning a diplomatic career within the Holy See. He served successively in the nunciatures in Nigeria, Mexico, and Venezuela, before joining the Secretariat of State in 2002.
In 2009, he was appointed apostolic nuncio to Venezuela, then, in 2013, Pope Francis appointed him as Vatican Secretary of State, a position he held until the Pope's death in April 2025. As Secretary of State, Parolin played a central role in Vatican diplomacy, particularly in the controversial agreement with China on the appointment of bishops and in the rapprochement between the United States and Cuba in 2014.
In 2014, he was created a cardinal by Pope Francis. In 2018, he was elevated to the rank of cardinal-bishop. Following the death of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Parolin became the Dean of the College of Cardinal Electors, thus presiding over the 2025 conclave.
Parolin is considered a moderate, or even a centrist. He supports Pope Francis's reforms while adopting a prudent approach on sensitive subjects. He has expressed conservative positions on homosexual marriage but has shown openness to discussing priestly celibacy and the role of women in the Church. (Politics aside for one day, world leaders to gather at Vatican and ..., Quién es Pietro Parolin, el candidato italiano que suena con más fuerza para ser el nuevo Papa de Roma)
As Dean of the College of Cardinal Electors and former Secretary of State, Parolin enjoys great visibility and an extensive network. He is respected for his ability to navigate the complexities of the Curia and to maintain stable diplomatic relations. (Conclave de 2025)
Cardinal Parolin upholds traditional Catholic moral teachings. He has publicly opposed same-sex marriage, describing it as a 'defeat for humanity,' and has affirmed the Church's stance on the sanctity of life from conception to natural death. While he maintains these conservative positions, he also emphasizes the importance of pastoral care and dialogue.
Cardinal Parolin supports traditional liturgical practices but also aligns with Pope Francis's efforts to promote unity within the Church. He has denied involvement in plans to further restrict the Traditional Latin Mass, indicating a balanced approach that respects tradition while embracing necessary reforms.
Cardinal Parolin is actively engaged in sociopolitical issues, advocating for peace, justice, and the rights of migrants and refugees. He emphasizes the importance of multilateralism and cooperation among states to address global challenges, reflecting a commitment to social justice and the common good.
Cardinal Parolin has been a close collaborator of Pope Francis, serving as Secretary of State since 2013. While he supports many of the Pope's initiatives, he has also expressed concerns over certain decisions, such as the Vatican's agreement with China, reflecting a nuanced relationship characterized by both loyalty and candid dialogue.
Cardinal Parolin is a strong advocate for interreligious dialogue, emphasizing its role in promoting peace and understanding. He has participated in various interfaith initiatives and has highlighted the importance of religious freedom and cooperation among different faith communities.
Known for his diplomatic skills and measured communication style, Cardinal Parolin effectively conveys the Church's positions on complex issues. His approach balances clarity with compassion, aiming to foster understanding both within the Church and in the broader global community.
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