Italian Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa is seen as a name that may surprise in the conclave that will choose Francisco’s successor in early May.
Since 2016, he has commanded the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem – one of the most important Catholic archdiocese, with jurisdiction over Palestine, Israel, Jordan and Cyprus.
Since the beginning of the war between Israel and Hamas, he has recurrently made appeals for peace and even offered in exchange for the release of children kidnapped by the Palestinian group.
He also worked with the Order of Malta – Catholic International Organization – to send humanitarian aid to Gaza.
A source heard by CNN considers pizzaballa a “surprise candidate” in the conclave.
“It’s the one who runs out, but has great chances. It’s Italian, but made a career in the midst of the Middle East wars. It has a very strong spirituality and the context of the wars has made this spirituality known worldwide,” he said.
“And a curiosity: it’s the closest to the Cardinal Pope’s profile in the movie ‘Conclave’,” he added.
Another source heard by CNN It considers that the contact so close with these wars can take votes from the cardinal.
“We have to remember that the church does not like to touch sensitive areas, such as regions with ongoing conflicts. But if the cardinals want just that – to raise more, provoke a reflection on an area of crisis – they can really opt for pizzaballa,” he said.
This Tuesday (22), Pizzaballa spoke to a small group of journalists and honored Pope Francis, praising his devotion to the Christian community of Gaza.
The cardinal mentioned Francis’ strong connection with the parish in Gaza: “He continued to call them many times. For a certain period, every day, every night at seven,” he said Pizzaballa.
“I conclude, first and foremost, that we should be sympathetic in times of war, especially solidarity with all proximity. Proximity was one of the most used words [por Francisco]. Therefore, we must be close, especially those who suffer, and especially from Islam, and also continue to work for justice, but without becoming part of the fight, ”he added.
This content was originally published in quoted for Papa, Italian Cardinal looks like elected in the movie “Conclave” on CNN Brazil.
Source: CNN Brasil
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