Maltese Cardinal Mario Grech Named Among Possible Contenders To Become Next Pope
As the world continues to mourn the passing of Pope Francis, global attention has turned to who might succeed him, and Malta’s very own Cardinal Mario Grech has been named as a possible contender.
In an article published by Reuters, Grech was listed among several prominent cardinals currently being discussed as “papabili”, potential frontrunners to become the next head of the Catholic Church.
Grech, 68, serves as Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, a key Vatican role that has placed him at the centre of major Church reform efforts.
Once considered a conservative figure, he is now seen as a strong supporter of Pope Francis’ progressive vision. In a 2018 address, Grech warned that the Church risked losing its relevance if it clung to nostalgia for the past, a stance that closely mirrors Francis’ push for modernisation.
According to Reuters, Grech’s strength lies in his broad network of allies across both conservative and moderate camps, along with his high visibility among cardinals, which is a clear advantage in a conclave where many voters remain unfamiliar with one another.
Other names being mentioned include Jean-Marc Aveline of France, Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Matteo Zuppi of Italy, Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana, Cardinal Peter Erdo of Hungary, Cardinal Joseph Tobin of the United States, and Cardinal Juan José Omella of Spain. Each of them is seen as reflecting different wings and priorities within the global Church.
Could the next pope be Maltese?
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