On May 7, 2025, the Conclave officially commenced in the Sistine Chapel to elect the successor to Pope Francis, with the first voting expected to take place shortly after 7:00 PM. Among the prominent candidates is Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, who is gaining traction as a serious contender for the papacy.
Pizzaballa, born on April 21, 1965, in Cologno al Serio, Bergamo, is the first cardinal to reside in the State of Israel. His unique background and experiences position him as a candidate capable of leading the Catholic Church in a time of significant interreligious dialogue and peace efforts in the Middle East.
Cardinal Pizzaballa is not a stranger to the complexities of the region. He entered the Order of Friars Minor in 1984 and was ordained a priest in Bologna in 1990. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Jerusalem, immersing himself in the realities of the First Intifada. His deep understanding of the Holy Land and his diplomatic skills have greatly enhanced his candidacy.
Over the years, Pizzaballa has been instrumental in promoting peace and dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians. His tenure as Custodian of the Holy Land from 2004 to 2016 was marked by efforts to strengthen the Christian presence and foster cultural integration among religious communities. In 2016, he was appointed apostolic administrator of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, and in 2020, he was confirmed as Patriarch.
His management style is characterized by discipline and rigor, which proved effective in addressing the substantial debts incurred by his predecessors in establishing the University of Madaba. He successfully reduced this debt by approximately 60 percent, showcasing his financial acumen alongside his spiritual leadership.
Pizzaballa's candidacy has gained momentum recently, with bookmakers significantly lowering the odds on his election. This shift is attributed to his proven track record of fostering interreligious dialogue and his commitment to peace in a region often fraught with tension.
As the first cardinal residing in Israel, Pizzaballa embodies a Church deeply rooted in history while being forward-looking in its mission. His leadership style is described as authentically Franciscan, emphasizing humility and compassion, which resonates with many in the region.
In a recent interview, Pizzaballa reflected on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, stating, "Faith and power do not go together. If you want to be free as a religious leader, you must be independent of any kind of power, economic, political, social, anything." His willingness to offer himself as a hostage in place of children kidnapped by Hamas underscores his commitment to peace and the protection of the innocent.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Following the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas in October 2023, Pizzaballa has been a vocal advocate for both Israelis and Palestinians, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and understanding. His statements against "mindless violence" have resonated across the globe, highlighting his role as a peacemaker in a turbulent landscape.
As the Conclave progresses, Pizzaballa's supporters, including Sister Rosalina Ravasio of the Shalom therapeutic community, have publicly expressed their admiration for him. Ravasio stated, "Even if he does not become Pope, he remains a genuine Bergamasque, strong and protective of the poor. We love you just the same, and may God always be with you!" This sentiment reflects the deep affection and respect he commands among those who know him.
Despite his relatively young age for a cardinal at 60, Pizzaballa's extensive experience and diplomatic skills position him well for the papacy. His ability to navigate the complexities of interreligious relations and his dedication to social justice resonate with the Church's mission of fostering peace and reconciliation.
As the first scrutiny approaches, the atmosphere in the Sistine Chapel is charged with anticipation. With 133 voting cardinals present, a quorum of 89 is needed to elect the new pope. The first results will be announced shortly after 7:00 PM, providing insight into whether Pizzaballa's candidacy has gained sufficient support among the electors.
Among the other candidates are Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State, and Luis Antonio Tagle, alongside several others, including Peter Turkson, Matteo Maria Zuppi, Mario Grech, Jean-Marc Aveline, Péter Erdő, and Robert Sarah. Each candidate brings their unique perspectives and experiences to the table, but Pizzaballa's background and commitment to peace make him an intriguing choice.
As the Conclave unfolds, many observers are keenly watching how Pizzaballa's candidacy develops. His potential election as Pope would not only mark a significant moment in Church history but could also symbolize a renewed commitment to peace and dialogue in a region that has long been a focal point of conflict.
With the world looking on, the coming hours will reveal whether Cardinal Pizzaballa will ascend to the papacy, potentially transforming the Catholic Church's approach to interfaith relations and its role in global peace efforts.
