With the official beginning of the Conclave on Wednesday (7), the attention turns to the cardinals listed to take over the papacy. Among the favorites, the cardinal stands out Mario Grech 68, current secretary general of Bishops Synod .
Originally from the small island of Gozo, in Malta, Grech gained notoriety in 2016 by leading a pilgrimage to ask for rain during a severe drought. Surprisingly, three days after prayer, the rain fell, earning her the nickname “The Cardinal who rained.”
Reformist profile and social sensitivity
Grech is known for his reformist profile and his sensitivity to social issues, characteristics that align him with Pope Francis’ legacy. His performance in the Synod of Bishops, where he addressed sensitive themes for the Church, such as the welcome to LGBTQIA POPULATION + and ordering of women, reinforcing their image of progressive within the institution.
In one of his statements, Grech emphasized the importance of unity and dialogue:
“No one is saved alone, neither the parish priest, nor the bishop, nor the Pope. We all have the right and duty to open our hearts to hear others before making positions and decisions.”
Despite his internal prestige in the Catholic Church, Grech faces challenges. The origin in Malta the smallest country in the European Union, can weigh against it, as the country has no great relevance in the international Catholic community.
In addition, there is resistance from the most conservative of the Church, who see with caveats their reformist approach.
The Conclave of 2025 presents itself as a crucial moment for the Catholic Church, with the expectation that the next pontiff continues the legacy of Francis, promoting unity and dialogue.
This content was originally published in who Mario Grech is, Cardinal Maltese who defends LGBTQIA+ and can become Pope on CNN Brazil.
Source: CNN Brasil
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