Scola, Angelo

Angelo Scola ([ˈandʒelo ˈskɔːla]; born 7 November 1941) is an Italian Cardinal of the Catholic Church, a prominent philosopher, and theologian. He served as Archbishop of Milan from 2011 to 2017, overseeing one of the largest dioceses in the world, and previously as Patriarch of Venice from 2002 to 2011. Elevated to the cardinalate in 2003 by Pope John Paul II, Scola has been a key figure in contemporary Catholic theology, particularly in areas of anthropological theology, marriage and family, and ecumenical dialogue. His scholarly work, influenced by thinkers such as Hans Urs von Balthasar and Henri de Lubac, emphasizes the nuptial mystery as a central motif in understanding Christian faith and human existence. Scola's ecclesiastical career spans over five decades, beginning with his ordination in 1970 and including significant roles in academia and the Roman Curia. As a professor and rector at the Pontifical Lateran University, he advanced theological education, particularly in marriage and family studies. His pastoral leadership in Grosseto, Venice, and Milan focused on catechesis, youth formation, and cultural engagement, while his curial appointments addressed doctrine, clergy, and new evangelization. Scola was considered a leading candidate in the papal conclaves of 2005 and 2013, and though ineligible to vote due to age, he participated in the 2025 conclave following the death of Pope Francis. In retirement, he continues to contribute through writings on aging, death, and Christian hope, including his 2025 book Awaiting a New Beginning: Reflections on Old Age, prefaced by Pope Francis. Renowned for his intellectual rigor and pastoral openness, Scola has authored numerous works translated into multiple languages, exploring bioethics, anthropology, and ecclesiology. He founded initiatives like the Studium Generale Marcianum and the journal Oasis to foster interfaith dialogue, particularly with Islam. His theology integrates tradition with contemporary challenges, advocating for the indissolubility of marriage while promoting ecumenism and the renewal inspired by the Second Vatican Council. As of 2025, Scola resides in Imberido, Italy, remaining an influential voice in Catholic thought.