The Archbishop of Marseille, Jean-Marc Aveline, has been elected as the head of the Bishops’ Conference of France for a three-year term.
Aveline, 66, is known for his alignment with Pope Francis’s positions, particularly advocating for interfaith dialogue and the defence of migrants—key aspects of the current papacy.
Aveline’s election comes at a critical time for the French Catholic Church, which is grappling with revelations of child sex abuse and facing mounting pressure to address its silence regarding allegations against a charity icon, Abbe Pierre. The CEF, considered one of the most influential bodies of bishops globally, will now be led by Aveline as the Church seeks to navigate these challenging issues.
Aveline’s appointment was swift, as he secured the necessary two-thirds majority in the first round of voting held in Lourdes, southwestern France. He succeeds Archbishop Eric de Moulins-Beaufort of Reims, whose six-year tenure concludes on July 1.
Born in Algeria, Aveline has spent the majority of his life in Marseille, a historic port city known for its diverse immigrant population. His deep roots in the city have made him a prominent figure there. In 2013, he was appointed auxiliary bishop of Marseille and was later elevated to the rank of cardinal in 2022. Due to his growing influence, he is also considered among the frontrunners for the papacy.
Aveline’s leadership style, characterized by warmth and approachability, has garnered respect within the Church and beyond. As an advocate of bridging cultural and religious divides, he aligns closely with Pope Francis’s vision for a more inclusive and compassionate Church.
Last year, Pope Francis visited Marseille on a two-day trip, drawing tens of thousands of worshippers to a mass held in a packed stadium. Aveline’s role in hosting the Pope further cemented his reputation as a significant figure within the French Catholic community.
