With the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, the Catholic Church entered Sede Vacante, the traditional period between pontificates. As cardinals from around the globe gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new Pope, all eyes are turning to Pietro Parolin, the man many consider to be the frontrunner.

But who is he? And why does he stand out among over a hundred potential successors?

What Makes Pietro Parolin a Leading Contender?

At 69 years old, Cardinal Pietro Parolin is no stranger to the inner workings of the Vatican. Born in Schiavon, a small town in northern Italy, Parolin has quietly built a reputation as one of the Church’s most skilled diplomats and administrators.

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His journey began back in 1983 when he entered the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy, the Vatican’s training ground for future ambassadors and high-level officials. From there, he served in Nigeria and Mexico before rising through the ranks at the Secretariat of State — the Vatican’s powerful diplomatic office.

He was appointed Secretary of State in 2013 by Pope Francis, effectively becoming the Pope’s right-hand man. It’s a role that allowed him to shape Church policy at the highest level and represent the Pope at major events.

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So when people talk about Parolin as the favorite, it’s not just speculation. He’s already been acting as the Pope’s stand-in during periods of illness, and he knows the weight of the job better than almost anyone else.

Where Does He Stand on Key Church Issues?

Parolin isn’t easy to pigeonhole.

He’s firmly against same-sex marriage, having called its global spread “a defeat for humanity.” That puts him on the more conservative side of the Church on social matters.

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But he’s not rigid. He’s open to discussing clerical celibacy and even believes that the ordination of women is a topic worthy of deeper dialogue — a statement that would have been unthinkable in Vatican circles not long ago.

He may be the rare cardinal who can bridge the divide between reform-minded bishops and more traditional factions. That’s exactly the kind of balance the Church might need during such a globally uncertain time.

Why Might Parolin Be the Right Leader Now?

The next Pope will face deep internal divisions, rising secularism, and a world more polarized than ever. Parolin brings something essential to that mix — diplomacy.

He has led Vatican efforts in difficult places like China and Vietnam, opening channels of communication where few others could. That track record could serve him well if the Church wants a leader who can navigate conflict, build consensus, and manage internal reform without rocking the boat too hard.

He’s not flashy, and he doesn’t seek the spotlight. But those who know the Vatican well understand that he’s one of the most powerful figures in Rome already.

What Happens Next?

As the conclave gets underway, the process is held entirely in secret. No phones, no outside contact, no leaks. It’s anyone’s guess how the votes will play out over the next few days.

But the fact remains: Pietro Parolin is not just a favorite — he’s already leading quietly behind the scenes.

If he is chosen, it won’t be a surprise. It’ll be the culmination of decades spent preparing for a moment like this.