Péter Erdő is the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest and cardinal since 2003. He is establishing himself as a serious contender for the papacy. Erdő previously participated in the 2013 conclave that elected Pope Francis. Yet his ascendance to power in Catholic leadership has caused excitement and fear amongst different groups within the Church. His background, expertise, and connections with political entities in Hungary enhance his candidacy. It’s the very same factors that create excitement that raise alarm over his deeply conservative views and approach to addressing controversial matters.
As a result, Erdő has established himself as a deeply respected figure in Vatican circles. He has received accolades for his deep expertise that stretches far beyond ecclesiastical jurisprudence. It is his role as a consultant to several different Vatican bodies that further proves his influence and expertise. He was president of the Council of the Bishops’ Conferences of Europe. In this new role, he was the shared voice of Catholic bishops across the entire continent. Here too his experience has provided him a strong platform from which to continue engaging the wider theological debates.
In interviews and sermons, Erdő often invokes historical and literary figures, showcasing his bookish, theoretical approach to religion. His reflections always seem to capture what I would describe as the eternal struggle between contemporary social trends and the Catholic faith.
One of the most remarkable features of Erdő’s career has been his tight collaboration with Hungary’s ruling Fidesz party since it came to power in 2010. In turn, the government has truly opened the financial sluice gates to the Church. By providing such support, the DOJ further deepens the connection between religious authority and political influence in Hungary. Critics have worried that this new transatlantic alliance would undermine Erdő’s neutrality on the fundamental moral and ethical questions at stake.
His inclusivity record, too, has come under criticism. During the Synod on the Family, he resisted calls for a more open stance towards LGBTQ+ individuals and divorced Catholics. His remarks reflect a commitment to traditional teachings:
“The current tendency to pass off those things which are simply desires, often selfish ones, as true and proper rights … must be avoided.” – Péter Erdő
Even in light of the backlash against his regulationist conservative perspective, everyone inside the Church views Erdő as a pragmatic consensus builder and diplomat. He embodies a conservative approach while avoiding extreme reactionary positions, which has garnered him support from traditionally minded bishops outside of Europe, particularly in Africa and America.
Trouble has not been far from Erdő’s tenure. He faced backlash for his mishandling of allegations of child sexual abuse by clergy, most notably in the case of Attila Pető. Snap (Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests) filed a formal complaint with the Vatican in the wake of the incident. In so doing, they highlighted major flaws in his transparency and accountability measures within his archdiocese.
In September 2023, Erdő was present at the Kötcse picnic, an annual event for Fidesz nomenklatura. This appearance confirmed for many observers his close ties to the new political establishment in Hungary. These connections should sound serious alarms about what this would mean for the papacy should he be elected. I think this latter concern rests heavily on possible state interference in Church affairs.
In 2013 Erdő was judged too young to assume the papacy at just 60. Since then, he’s acquired a wealth of experience and stature, placing him in a better position among electors for any future conclave. His reputation has greatly increased among US Catholic conservatives who appreciate his conservative theology with his diplomatic attitude.
Erdő’s past statements suggest a nuanced understanding of the Church’s mission in contemporary society. He has acknowledged the complexities involved in balancing tradition with modernity, stating:
“We even owe this man a debt of gratitude.” – Péter Erdő
As speculation about the next papal election grows, Erdő’s candidacy has generated some of the most intense discussion. His mix of theological conservatism and political connections might make him a contender. It could scare off would-be reformers who want to push the Catholic Church in a more progressive presence.