In brief
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi's deep commitment to the underprivileged and his pastoral approach mirrors that of Pope Francis, signaling a continued direction of empathy within the Church.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, Archbishop of Bologna, was bestowed the cardinal’s red hat on October 5, 2019, culminating in a Mass at the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, Rome. Reflecting on the significant moments of his life, Zuppi emphasized the collective nature of existence during his homily, stating, “the joy of being together as a piece of our common life, exactly the opposite of individualism.” His profound connection with the poor and marginalized began in his youth as a volunteer for the Community of Sant’Egidio, a Catholic charity renowned for its efforts in interreligious dialogue and conflict mediation.With years of priestly service and leadership in the Community of Sant’Egidio behind him, Zuppi is now frequently mentioned as a potential successor to Pope Francis among Vatican observers. His vision of ministry, which embraces pastoral care and community building, aligns closely with that of Pope Francis, making him a likely candidate who would continue this compassionate approach if elected to the papacy. Affectionately known as “Don Matteo” in Rome, he draws public recognition from a popular Italian television character, indicating his relatability and connection with the local community.
