Malta, a small Mediterranean nation home to about half a million residents, may soon see one of its own, Cardinal Mario Grech, elected as pope. At 68 years old, Grech, the former bishop of Gozo, has gained attention due to his role as secretary general of the Synod of Bishops—a Vatican body tasked with addressing crucial issues facing the Church today. Under Pope Francis, the Synod has transformed into a more inclusive platform aimed at fostering open dialogue among Catholics across the globe. This shift has been viewed as essential for the Church’s relevance, especially in light of changing societal values.
During Grech’s tenure as the bishop of Gozo from 2005 to 2020, he maintained conservative views on topics such as homosexuality and divorce, opposing Malta’s 2011 referendum on the latter. However, under the guidance of Pope Francis, who elevated him to cardinal status in 2020, his stance appears to have softened. Grech is now perceived as a potential leader who could ensure continuity in the Church’s mission while fostering engagement with its broader community. The inclusivity introduced by the synod is seen as vital for the Church’s survival, particularly in regions like Central Europe, where failure to adapt could spell disaster for its future.
The synodal process initiated in 2021 has allowed local churches worldwide to voice their concerns and aspirations, making it a rare opportunity for grassroots participation in the Church’s governance. Supporters argue that this participatory approach is necessary to retain relevance and prevent disillusionment within the congregation. Helena Jeppesen-Spuhler, a participant from a Swiss Catholic relief agency, highlighted that actualizing significant changes is crucial for the Church to maintain its authority and appeal. The involvement of Cardinal Grech, with a clear and accessible role among the voting cardinals, strengthens his position as a pivotal figure in this transformative period.
Grech’s influence extends beyond synodal matters; he has also taken a principled stance on pressing global issues, aligning himself with Pope Francis’s advocacy for migrants. Malta serves as a crucial entry point for individuals fleeing dire conditions in Africa, and Grech has urged Europe to adopt an open-door policy rather than closing its borders. He has been vocal about the risks that displaced persons face, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where he has alerted the public on the vulnerability of fleeing women and children to human trafficking.
Despite his efforts to reform church practices and tackle pressing social issues, Cardinal Grech’s record on addressing historical sexual abuse within the Church has drawn criticism. Over the past two decades, he has faced scrutiny from various quarters for not sufficiently addressing cases that occurred during his bishopric. Critics point to his past actions—while he initiated several protective measures, including establishing a commission for vulnerable adults—as insufficient in dealing with particularly egregious instances of abuse, notably those related to the Lourdes Home orphanage in Gozo.
The ongoing struggle for justice endured by survivors has come to the forefront of public discourse, especially as legal cases against the Church continue. Survivors like Carmen Muscat have voiced their frustrations over the lack of adequate support and reparations from Church authorities, expressing feelings of betrayal. In light of this dissatisfaction, some advocates assert that the Church, including figures like Cardinal Grech, ought to take more substantial action to acknowledge past wrongs and provide comprehensive care for victims. Although Cardinal Grech’s intentions may align with reform, many feel that genuine commitment requires more than just procedural changes; it demands accountability and healing for those who suffered.
