Matteo Zuppi, 69, Archbishop of Bologna, is considered one of the main papabili (potential candidates for the papacy). He is often seen as a more progressive yet more affable version of Pope Francis, sharing many of his priorities, particularly a Church focused on mercy, the margins, and interreligious dialogue.

Origins and Education

Born in Rome in 1955 into a family deeply connected to the Church (father was a journalist at L’Osservatore Romano, mother was niece to an influential cardinal).

Became close in high school to Andrea Riccardi, founder of the Sant’Egidio Community.

Sant’Egidio, known for humanitarian and diplomatic efforts, is a pillar of left-leaning Catholicism and a strong supporter of Pope Francis.

Ecclesiastical Path

Ordained priest in 1981; became vicar at Santa Maria in Trastevere (Rome).

Played a key role in the mediation that ended Mozambique’s civil war in 1992.

Appointed auxiliary bishop of Rome in 2012 (by Benedict XVI), then Archbishop of Bologna in 2015 (by Francis).

Created cardinal in 2019; became president of the Italian Bishops’ Conference in 2022.

Special envoy of the Pope for diplomatic missions, including in Ukraine.

Vision and Commitment

Deeply influenced by the Second Vatican Council, he advocates for a Church attentive to the world.

Very active on migration issues; opposed Matteo Salvini (League) and supports migrant reception.

Promotes interreligious dialogue, especially with Islam (has defended the idea of introducing Muslim holidays in schools).

On sexuality and inclusivity, he holds open views: supports blessing same-sex couples in a spirit of mercy, while remaining committed to Church teaching on marriage.

Personal Style and Perception

A grassroots pastor, modest, close to the people (known for riding a bicycle).

Viewed as a skilled diplomat, though he only speaks Italian.

Labeled by critics as the "chaplain of the Italian left", yet respectful toward traditionalists.

Strengths

Diplomacy, listening, simplicity, and coherence with Pope Francis' style.

A reassuring figure of continuity, without the current pope’s sometimes confrontational edge.

Weaknesses

His progressivism may clash with the Church’s conservative wing.

His closeness to the influential Sant’Egidio community, sometimes seen as a “parallel Church”, raises concerns: “Electing Zuppi is like making Riccardi pope,” goes a Roman saying.

Representative Quotes

On faith: “Faith helps you to truly love [...] without categorizing love.”

On Fiducia Supplicans: “The Church must care for everyone, without questioning sacramental marriage.”