The psychological profile of the next Pope: strong mediator between global challenges and internal divisions

Ahead of the Conclave, Italian psychologist Valentina Di Mattei’s analysis outlines the future Pope as a figure of balance between opposing currents in the Church and a diplomatic actor in complex international scenarios

As the Catholic Church prepares for the Conclave that will elect the successor to Pope Francis, reflections are intensifying on what the human and psychological profile of the next Pontiff should be. A figure who is not only spiritual, but also capable of holding together a changing world and an ecclesial community torn by deep internal tensions.

According to Valentina Di Mattei, president of the Order of Psychologists of Lombardy, interviewed by Adnkronos Salute, the next Pope will have to embody a charismatic but balanced leadership: ‘It will be fundamental to have a personality capable of acting as a bridge between progressives and conservatives, of reconciling different positions with patience and determination. A mediator will be needed, before being an innovator’.

Pope Francis,’ observes the psychologist, ’leaves a powerful legacy that is difficult to manage. His pontificate has been distinguished by strong choices, often in discontinuity with those of his predecessors. ‘Those who will come after,’ adds Di Mattei, ‘will have to be just as strong or, on the contrary, choose a more moderate and continuous profile, capable of integrating themselves into an already transformed context’.

The challenges awaiting the 267th bishop of Rome will not only be internal to the Church. From the crisis in the Middle East to climate change, to the relationship with the Trump presidency and the ‘third world war in pieces’, as Francis called it, the next Pope will be called upon to exercise strong diplomatic skills and a global vision.

‘Precise psychological qualities will be needed,’ Di Mattei concludes, ’the ability to listen, firmness in decision-making, but above all a great gift for mediation. Because leading the Church today also means knowing how to integrate, without forcing, very different worlds. Inside and outside the Vatican’.

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