Could Hungary's Péter Erdő become pope?

Among the frontrunners is Cardinal Péter Erdő, the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest and Primate of Hungary. A respected theologian and canon law scholar, Erdő is seen as a leading conservative candidate. But could he ascend to the papacy? This deep dive explores Erdő’s background, theological positions, leadership style, and the challenges and opportunities surrounding his candidacy in the context of the upcoming conclave.

Background and Career

Péter Erdő was born on June 25, 1952, in Budapest, Hungary, the eldest of six children in a family of Catholic intellectuals. His academic journey is marked by rigor, earning doctorates in theology (1976) and canon law (1980) from institutions like the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome. Ordained a priest in 1975, Erdő served in parishes and academia, teaching theology and canon law at the Seminary of Esztergom and Pázmány Péter Catholic University, where he was rector from 1998 to 2003.

In 1999, Erdő was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Székesfehérvár, and in 2002, he became the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, assuming the role of Primate of Hungary. Pope John Paul II elevated him to cardinal in 2003, making him one of the youngest cardinals at age 51. Erdő’s career includes significant leadership roles:

• President of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences (2006–2016), where he fostered unity among European bishops.

• Relator General for the Synod on the Family (2014–2015), shaping discussions on marriage, divorce, and same-sex unions.

• Member of Vatican dicasteries, including the Pontifical Council for Culture and the Secretariat of State, reflecting his influence in Church governance.

Erdő’s fluency in Hungarian, English, Italian, French, Latin, and Slovak, combined with his European experience, positions him as a global Church leader. At 72, he is among the 138 cardinal electors under 80 eligible to vote in the conclave, one of only five appointed by John Paul II still eligible (Wikipedia: Péter Erdő).

Theological Stance and Key Positions

Erdő’s theology is rooted in traditional Catholic teachings, making him a favorite among conservative cardinals. His positions on key issues are critical to understanding his candidacy:

Same-Sex Marriage

Erdő firmly opposes same-sex marriage, aligning with the Church’s teaching that marriage is a sacramental union between a man and a woman. During the 2014 Synod on the Family, as Relator General, he stated there was “a broad consensus that people with a homosexual orientation should not be discriminated against,” but most Catholics do not equate same-sex relationships with traditional marriage (Angelus News). He has emphasized pastoral support for individuals with same-sex attraction while rejecting the acceptance of homosexual unions, noting there are “absolutely no grounds for considering homosexual unions to be in any way similar or even remotely analogous to God’s plan for marriage and family” (College of Cardinals Report).

Divorce and Remarriage

Erdő upholds the Church’s doctrine on the indissolubility of marriage. In 2014, he expressed opposition to allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive Holy Communion, stating that “in the case of a (consummated) sacramental marriage, after a divorce, a second marriage recognized by the Church is impossible, while the first spouse is still alive” (The Atlantic). He supports pastoral accompaniment for remarried divorcees but only if there is “no doubt” about the Church’s teaching (College of Cardinals Report).

Migration

Erdő’s views on migration have evolved. During the 2015 European migrant crisis, he initially suggested that taking in refugees could amount to human trafficking, reflecting Hungary’s cautious stance under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. However, after Pope Francis called for welcoming refugees, Erdő aligned with the Pope, stating, “We are ready and happy to follow your call to welcome and assist refugees” (Wikipedia: Péter Erdő). He advocates a balanced approach, recognizing the right to migrate while emphasizing the need for political stability and integration (College of Cardinals Report).

Church Reform

Erdő’s background in canon law positions him to address the legal complexities of Pope Francis’s reforms, such as those affecting Vatican governance. He is seen as a potential stabilizer, capable of clarifying and refining administrative structures. While supportive of some liturgical developments from Vatican II, such as the use of vernacular languages, he values tradition and is not considered reactionary (College of Cardinals Report). His emphasis on interreligious dialogue and Church unity suggests openness to certain reforms, particularly those enhancing global cohesion (Conclavoscope).

Leadership Style and Diplomatic Skills

Erdő is described as cautious, diplomatic, and pragmatic, qualities that make him a potential compromise candidate. His leadership style includes:

• Unifying Figure: As President of the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences, Erdő bridged diverse European contexts, earning admiration for his ability to foster unity (National Catholic Register). His role in the Synod on the Family demonstrated his capacity to navigate contentious issues diplomatically.

• Legal Expertise: His canon law background equips him to address Vatican administrative challenges, potentially restoring “the rule of law” post-Francis, as noted by the late Cardinal George Pell (College of Cardinals Report).

• Pastoral Sensitivity: Despite his conservatism, Erdő emphasizes pastoral care, advocating for accompaniment of marginalized groups within doctrinal boundaries (Angelus News).

However, his cautious approach has drawn criticism. Some argue he has been too reticent in challenging Orbán’s policies, such as those on migration and LGBTQ+ rights, raising questions about his willingness to confront political powers (The Guardian).

Challenges and Controversies

Erdő’s candidacy faces several hurdles:

• Ties to Viktor Orbán: Erdő’s relationship with Hungary’s nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is a significant concern. Critics point to his attendance at a 2023 Fidesz party event and his silence during Hungary’s anti-migrant campaigns and criminalization of homelessness as evidence of potential political influence (The Guardian). This could undermine perceptions of his independence as pope.

• Conservative vs. Progressive Divide: The conclave includes 138 electors, many appointed by Pope Francis, who may favor a candidate aligned with his progressive vision. Erdő’s conservative theology could alienate these voters, potentially leading to a polarized vote (National Catholic Reporter).

• Perception of Francis’s Legacy: Erdő’s election might be seen as a “negative verdict” on Pope Francis’s papacy, a step many cardinals may hesitate to take given Francis’s global influence (Cruxnow).

Prospects for Papacy

Erdő’s prospects hinge on several factors:

• Support Base: He is backed by traditionalists, including those influenced by Cardinal George Pell, who saw him as a “highly suitable Successor of Peter” (College of Cardinals Report). His status as one of five John Paul II-appointed electors may appeal to those nostalgic for that era.

• Global Appeal: His European experience and language skills make him a credible leader for a global Church. His role in interreligious dialogue, such as during the International Eucharistic Congress in Budapest, enhances his international stature (Conclavoscope).

• Compromise Potential: Erdő’s moderate tone and diplomatic skills position him as a compromise candidate, less polarizing than other traditionalists like Cardinal Robert Sarah (The Guardian).

• Odds and Speculation: Some sources place Erdő among the top contenders, with betting odds of 6:1 (Newsweek). However, the conclave’s secrecy and the diversity of electors make predictions uncertain.

What Would an Erdő Papacy Look Like?

If elected, Erdő’s papacy would likely emphasize:

• Doctrinal Orthodoxy: A return to traditional teachings on marriage, family, and sexuality, potentially reversing or slowing Francis’s inclusive reforms.

• Administrative Clarity: Leveraging his canon law expertise to streamline Vatican governance and address legal ambiguities from Francis’s tenure.

• European Focus: Strengthening the Church’s moral and spiritual role in Europe amid secularization and political shifts.

• Interreligious Dialogue: Continuing to promote unity and dialogue with other faiths, building on his European experience.

However, challenges would include navigating the conservative-progressive divide, maintaining the Church’s global relevance, and addressing criticisms of his Hungarian ties. His leadership would need to balance tradition with the demands of a diverse, modern Church.

Conclusion

Péter Erdő is a formidable candidate for the papacy in the 2025 conclave, with his theological depth, legal expertise, and diplomatic skills making him a strong contender. His conservative stance appeals to traditionalists, but it risks alienating progressives loyal to Pope Francis’s vision.

His ties to Viktor Orbán and Hungary’s government pose a significant challenge, potentially undermining perceptions of his independence. The conclave’s outcome will depend on whether cardinals prioritize continuity with Francis’s reforms or seek a return to doctrinal orthodoxy. Erdő’s candidacy underscores the Church’s ongoing tension between tradition and reform, making the 2025 conclave a defining moment for global Catholicism.