As the 2025 papal conclave enters its third day without a decisive vote, speculation intensifies around potential successors to Pope Francis. Among the leading contenders are Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem. Both are considered papabile—viable candidates for the papacy—but they represent contrasting profiles in terms of experience and personal interests.The Daily Beast+4Latest news & breaking headlines+4Wikipedia+4Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, aged 70, is a seasoned Vatican diplomat who has served as Secretary of State since 2013. He is known for his role in shaping the Vatican’s foreign policy, including the 2018 agreement with China regarding bishop appointments. Parolin maintains traditional Catholic doctrines on issues like same-sex marriage and euthanasia but has shown openness to revisiting clerical celibacy disciplines. His extensive diplomatic experience and moderate stance make him a strong candidate to continue Pope Francis’s legacy while potentially steering the Church toward a more centrist path. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2The Guardian
In contrast, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, 60, brings a unique blend of pastoral experience and academic scholarship. Born in Cologno al Serio, Italy, he has served as the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem since 2020 and was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023. Fluent in Hebrew, English, and Arabic, Pizzaballa has been deeply involved in interfaith dialogue and peace efforts in the Middle East. Notably, he donned a Palestinian keffiyeh during a 2023 Christmas Eve service in Bethlehem, symbolizing solidarity with the Palestinian people. Wikipedia
Beyond his ecclesiastical duties, Pizzaballa harbors an unexpected personal interest: he is an avid fan of Italian football. His uncle, Pierluigi Pizzaballa, was a professional goalkeeper, and this familial connection has fostered his enthusiasm for the sport. This passion for football adds a relatable dimension to his persona, potentially appealing to younger Catholics and sports enthusiasts worldwide.The Guardian+3Wikipedia+3Latest news & breaking headlines+3
As the conclave progresses, the choice between candidates like Parolin and Pizzaballa reflects broader considerations about the future direction of the Catholic Church. Parolin’s diplomatic acumen and continuity with existing Vatican policies may appeal to those seeking stability, while Pizzaballa’s pastoral approach and cultural engagement could resonate with a Church aiming to connect more deeply with diverse global communities. The outcome remains uncertain, underscoring the conclave’s role in shaping the Church’s path forward.apnews.com+5
