Cardinals gather this week to elect the next pope, and among candidates receiving mention is Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem. His position in a conflict zone puts his experience in focus as cardinals discuss the needs of the church.
Cardinal Pizzaballa, 60, has served as Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem since 2020. Pope Francis created him a cardinal in September 2023.
His jurisdiction, the Holy Land, has faced political instability. He described Gaza as an "open prison," and conditions there "shameful." He has spoken in support of migrants and the need for women's leadership.
Sources in Rome indicate that Cardinal Pizzaballa has gained attention from across theological viewpoints. While some of his views align with recent papal priorities, his theology tends toward tradition.
Choosing a cardinal from a conflict region, such as Pizzaballa from Jerusalem, is seen by some as a way to select a leader experienced in addressing real-world issues. Discussions among cardinals have included the church's witness in the world and the pope's role in promoting peace.
Cardinals began arriving in Rome following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. The period of mourning, known as the Novemdiales, concluded Sunday.
Preparations for the conclave, which begins Wednesday, May 7, included installing the traditional chimney on the Sistine Chapel roof. Black smoke will mean cardinals have not elected a pope; white smoke will signal a choice has been made. Cardinals under 80 are eligible to vote. There are 133 cardinal electors. A candidate needs a two-thirds majority vote.
Pre-conclave meetings have included discussions on church governance, financial matters, and the issue of abuse. Cardinals have also considered Pope Francis' teachings and his emphasis on synodality, a more inclusive model for the church. This concept remains a talking point as electors prepare to vote. Some cardinals have expressed a desire for a leader with a prophetic spirit.
Catholic colleges and universities in the United States held prayer services and remembrance events following the late pope's death and looked toward the upcoming election. Some hosted discussions on the Francis legacy and the church's future direction. For example, Sacred Heart University held a three-part discussion series. Sacred Heart University's discussion series focused on the late pontiff and the conclave.
The selection process is private. Cardinals are expected to discuss candidates and the direction of the church before balloting begins. The wide range of backgrounds among the cardinal electors reflects the church's global reach.
