Intensifying Pursuit for the New Pope: Secretive Strategies and Assaults Increase as the Conclave Approaches

A Battle for the Pope's Throne: Secrets, Scandals, and Intrigue

The stage is set for the next papal conclave, kicking off May 7. As the white smoke-spewing chimney is installed on top of the Sistine Chapel, the race to influence the selection of Pope Francis' successor has already begun in earnest.

Cardinal Parolin under Fire: Is the Favorite Running out of Grace?

Leading the list of targets is Cardinal Parolin, a contender well-positioned in the current field. A relatively moderate individual, though not as reformist as Francis, Parolin has been under fire for his role in the Vatican's agreement with China on joint bishop nominations in 2018. Critics allege that this agreement may have compromised the Church's stance on human rights issues in China.

Rumors have swirled about Parolin's health, with some American conservative outlets claiming he fainted due to a hypertension crisis during recent meetings. However, the Vatican press office has vehemently denied these allegations.

Another blow came from an NGO relentlessly documenting sexual abuse within the Church. On Friday morning, they held a press conference to accuse Cardinal Parolin of ignoring information requests regarding sexual abuse cases in multiple countries, including Australia, Chile, Poland, and the United Kingdom.

Anne Barrett Doyle, the co-director of the American NGO, Bishop Accountability, claimed that Cardinal Parolin has been hiding official documents related to sexual crimes committed by clergy members and hindering transparency on the issue. The organization also criticized Cardinal Tagle, a progressive favorite, for insufficient action against abuse in the Philippines. They promised to reveal other names in the coming days.

Can We Expect More Scandals?

During the recent general congregations, the issue of pedophile criminality received significant attention among the cardinals. While the details of the discussions remain unknown, it's clear that the topic is considered crucial for the Church's future. An upcoming report from the Vatican commission on this matter raises concerns that the issue remains unresolved in certain countries and is not being given the attention it deserves. It's likely that more scandals will come to light.

The Controversial Lunch and the French Connection

Amidst the intrigue surrounding the conclave, there are reports that French President Emmanuel Macron has meddled in the selection process. The most right-wing Italian press has accused Macron of interference, claiming that he hosted French cardinals at the French embassy to the Vatican for a media-attended lunch. This lunch was also attended by a journalist from Le Figaro, sparking controversy over political involvement in the confidential discussions of the general congregations.

Though Macron denies trying to influence the voting process, the move has raised questions about his understanding of Vatican politics and could potentially jeopardize the candidacy of Mgr Aveline, who aligns with Francis' ideologies.

Whose Name will Rise in Smoke?

The select few eligible to become the next Pope have been narrowed down to a handful of candidates: Cardinal Tagle (Philippines), Archbishop Anders Arborelius (Sweden), Bishop Timothy Prevost (United States), Archbishop Jean-Marc Aveline (France), Bishops Matteo Zuppi (Italy), and Pizzaballa (Israel). As the days tick down to the conclave, the race is heating up, with each side scrambling to rally support and sway votes.

: Important to Note:Cardinal Pietro Parolin has faced allegations in the past, but the current controversy surrounding him is primarily linked to his role in the Vatican's diplomatic relations and financial matters rather than the Church's handling of sexual abuse cases. Questions regarding the latter have been a significant focus of the general congregations, indicating that they form a significant part of the discussions leading up to the conclave.

*: Enrichment DataCardinal Pietro Parolin's nomination as a potential successor to Pope Francis has been met with controversy, stemming from two main issues:

Relations with China: Parolin played a pivotal role in the Vatican's agreement with China in 2018, which allowed bishops in China to be in communion with Rome. Critics argue that this agreement has resulted in the Vatican being less vocal against human rights abuses in China, impacting the Church and its members in the region.
Financial Mismanagement: Under Parolin's leadership, the Vatican faced financial scandals, particularly in relation to a significant loss in a London property deal. While he was not directly implicated in the scandal, it highlights broader concerns about the financial management within the Vatican.

Regarding the Church's handling of sexual abuse cases, the issue remains a significant concern in the lead-up to the papal conclave, though the current controversy surrounding Cardinal Parolin is primarily focused on his diplomatic engagements and financial responsibilities rather than specific actions or inactions in addressing sexual abuse cases.

The current controversy surrounding Cardinal Parolin stems not only from his role in the Vatican's agreement with China but also from allegations of financial mismanagement within the Vatican.
The recent press conference by a NGO accused Cardinal Parolin of neglecting information requests regarding sexual abuse cases in multiple countries.
As political influence plays a significant role in the papal conclave, reports of French President Emmanuel Macron's alleged meddling in the selection process have sparked questioning about Vatican politics.
Besides the frontrunners like Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop Anders Arborelius, Bishop Timothy Prevost, Archbishop Jean-Marc Aveline, Bishops Matteo Zuppi, and Pizzaballa, other candidates' names may rise in smoke come May 7, as the race for the Pope's throne intensifies, with each side scrambling to influence the election process.