Pietro Parolin: The Man Who Might Be The Next Pope

April 28, 2025 EMMANUEL ADEBAYO AJIBOLA

Cardinal Pietro Parolin has been touted as the likeliest man to replace deceased Pope Francis. The 70-year-old priest has been a member of the Catholic Church most of his life. He is the most senior cardinal bishop under the age of 80. Here are a few things to know about Pietro Parolin, the man who might become the next head of the catholic church.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin is a prominent Italian prelate of the Catholic Church, widely recognised for his extensive diplomatic service and influential role within the Vatican. Born on January 17, 1955, in Schiavon, Veneto, Italy, Parolin was ordained a priest on April 27, 1980. He pursued advanced studies in canon law at the Pontifical Gregorian University and trained for diplomatic service at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, officially joining the Holy See’s diplomatic corps in 1986.

Career Highlights

Diplomatic Service:
In his early career, Cardinal Parolin undertook important assignments in Nigeria and Mexico. His most notable achievement during this period was helping to re-establish diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Mexico after a 130-year break—an effort that showcased his skill in delicate negotiations.

Apostolic Nuncio to Venezuela:
In 2009, Parolin was appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Venezuela. During a time of significant political unrest, he successfully managed the Church’s relations with the Venezuelan government, reinforcing his reputation as a trusted and capable diplomat.

Secretary of State:
On October 15, 2013, Pope Francis appointed Parolin as Vatican Secretary of State. In this role, Parolin became the Pope’s principal advisor and the chief administrator of the Holy See’s global diplomatic efforts, playing a central role in shaping Vatican policy on international matters.

Cardinalate:
Elevated to the College of Cardinals on February 22, 2014, Cardinal Parolin has since served as a member of the Council of Cardinal Advisers, contributing directly to major decisions within the Church.

Recent Development:

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, Cardinal Parolin has been a central figure during the Vatican’s mourning period. He presided over the Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday, where he emphasised the ongoing mission of mercy within the Church and encouraged the faithful to continue living out Pope Francis’s legacy.

As the most senior cardinal bishop under the age of 80, Parolin is expected to play a major role in the upcoming papal conclave. Many observers consider him a strong contender for the papacy, thanks to his blend of diplomatic skill, leadership experience, and pastoral sensibility.

Personal Attributes

Cardinal Parolin is known for his diplomatic acumen, linguistic skills—speaking Italian, English, French, and Spanish—and his deep commitment to the Church’s mission. His episcopal motto, “Quis nos separabit a caritate Christi?” (“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?”), reflects his theological and pastoral priorities, centred on unity and compassion.

whether is Cardinal Pietro Parolin will become the next pope isnt guaranteed yet even though the he is at the top of the contenders hierarchy.

With his extensive experience and influential leadership within the Vatican, Cardinal Pietro Parolin remains a pivotal figure in shaping the future direction of the Catholic Church.