The Christian world continues to mourn the loss of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known as Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, in Rome. As the faithful reflect on his legacy, the focus shifts to the conclave that began on May 7, 2025, in the Eternal City, where 133 cardinals from 71 countries will convene to elect his successor. Among the candidates is Ángel Fernández Artime, a 64-year-old cardinal from Luanco, Spain, who has emerged as a noteworthy figure in the race.
Born in 1960 in the small fishing town of Luanco, Artime initially seemed destined to follow in his father's footsteps as a fisherman. However, after attending a Salesian school, he realized his calling was in the church. He joined the Salesians of Don Bosco, making his first vows in 1978 and final vows in 1984. He was ordained a priest in León in 1987 and later moved to Argentina in 2009, where he became the Superior of the Province of Argentina South. It was during this time that he developed a close relationship with Bergoglio, who was then a cardinal.
Reflecting on their connection, Artime recalled, "At that time, he was Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio; I was the provincial of the Salesians, and we had multiple encounters." Their bond deepened over the years, culminating in Artime receiving the cardinalate from Pope Francis in 2023.
During a memorial mass for the late pope, Artime emphasized the importance of continuing Bergoglio's work, stating, "We must serve the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten." He also celebrated the ongoing transformation within the Catholic Church, noting that it is "changing its skin color" under Francis's leadership. This change, he believes, is vital for awakening a "sleeping Europe," a sentiment that resonates with his commitment to social issues, particularly concerning youth and migrants.
Artime has been vocal about the plight of young people in prisons, expressing his sorrow during a visit to Ferrante Aporti prison in Turin. He stated, "I feel joy being among the youth but also bitterness seeing them in a place like jail," sharing his hope to meet them in a different setting the following year. His advocacy extends to addressing the tragic deaths of migrants in the Mediterranean, which he described as "unforgivable." He argued that a political and social dialogue among nations is essential to tackle this overwhelming social reality.
As the conclave unfolds, the atmosphere in Luanco is charged with anticipation. The local parish priest, José Antonio Alonso, humorously noted the urgency of repairing the church bells, which broke just as the conclave began. "I ordered them to be fixed immediately; we might need to ring them if 'Angelín,' as we affectionately call him, is elected," he remarked, blending humor with the community's pride in their native son.
In the lead-up to the conclave, speculation about potential candidates has intensified. Artime's name has surfaced among the favorites, with Italian newspaper "Il Messagero" placing him in their list of possible successors, albeit not at the top. His profile as a candidate is unique; he is seen as a compassionate leader with a strong commitment to education and social justice. Despite being ranked 45th in betting houses, his candidacy is gaining traction within the Curia.
Artime's journey to this pivotal moment has been marked by significant achievements. He served as the Rector Major of the Salesians from 2014 to 2024 and was appointed a member of the Dicastery for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and the Societies of Apostolic Life in 2023. His recent consecration in the Basilica of Santa María la Mayor in Rome in April 2024 further solidified his standing in the church hierarchy.
After Bergoglio's death, Artime presided over the Eucharist in St. Peter's Basilica, a poignant moment that highlighted his close association with the late pope. He is described as approachable, charismatic, and deeply committed to his faith, with a particular focus on the challenges facing the Church today. He believes that the Church must engage with the world's issues, stating, "The Church cannot be in a glass urn. Peace is a cry heard everywhere, whether in the Middle East, Ukraine, Africa, Asia, or America; in the face of violence, guerrilla warfare, and brutal wars, the Church must contribute from its essence."
As the conclave progresses, Artime has taken a solemn oath of silence, committing to absolute secrecy about the proceedings and rejecting any external interference, under penalty of automatic excommunication. This oath underscores the gravity of the moment and the deep respect for the traditions of the Catholic Church.
The community of Luanco watches with bated breath, hopeful yet realistic about the possibility of their beloved "Angelín" becoming the next pope. As they gather to discuss the potential outcomes, the sentiment is palpable: the small town is proud of its son who has risen through the ranks of the Catholic Church, embodying the values of service, compassion, and commitment to social justice that Bergoglio championed.
In a world where the Church faces numerous challenges, Ángel Fernández Artime represents a hopeful future, one that aligns with the vision of inclusivity and outreach that Pope Francis advocated. Whether or not he emerges as the successor, his journey reflects the ongoing evolution of the Catholic Church and its role in addressing the pressing issues of our time.
