The Unconventional Rise of Angelo Scola: From Milan to Rome
Angelo Scola, a prominent Catholic Cardinal, is one of the most respected religious figures of our time. He rose to fame after serving in various positions in the church, including as a bishop, archbishop, and cardinal. However, his journey to the top was anything but conventional. In this post, we explore the life and career of Angelo Scola, including his upbringing in Milan and his rise to power in Rome.
1. Childhood in Milan
Angelo Scola was born in 1941 in Malgrate, a small town near Lake Como. His father was a truck driver, and the family lived in a modest home. Scola attended school in Lecco and later studied at the Catholic University of Milan. He was ordained as a priest in 1970, after which he taught theology at the same university.
2. Bishop of Grosseto
In 1991, Scola was appointed as the Bishop of Grosseto, a small town in Tuscany. During his tenure, he focused on building bridges between Catholics and Protestants. His efforts to promote interfaith dialogue earned him recognition from the Vatican and paved the way for his rise to power.
3. Archbishop of Venice
In 2002, Scola was appointed as the Archbishop of Venice, a prestigious position that gave him more power and influence in the Catholic Church. During his time in Venice, he worked to modernize the Church and reach out to the younger generation.
4. Cardinal of Milan
In 2011, Scola was appointed as the Cardinal of Milan, a position he held until 2014. As the leader of the largest diocese in Europe, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Catholic Church’s stance on several issues, including contraception, homosexuality, and divorce.
5. Major Contender for the Papacy
When Pope Benedict XVI resigned in 2013, Angelo Scola was one of the major contenders for the papacy. However, he was eventually beaten by Pope Francis, who went on to become the first non-European pope in more than a millennium.
6. Advocate of Traditional Catholicism
Angelo Scola has been a vocal advocate of traditional Catholicism throughout his career. He has opposed progressive ideas within the Church, such as the ordination of women and the acceptance of homosexuality. Scola believes that the Church should stick to its roots and teachings.
7. Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Angelo Scola has received numerous awards and recognitions. These include the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, the Grand Decoration of Honor in Gold with Star for Services to the Republic of Austria, and the Gold Medal of the President of the Italian Republic.
8. FAQs
Q1. What is Angelo Scola known for?
A1. Angelo Scola is known for his prominent position within the Catholic Church and his advocacy of traditional Catholicism.
Q2. What was the role of Angelo Scola while serving as Cardinal of Milan?
A2. As the Cardinal of Milan, Angelo Scola played a pivotal role in shaping the Catholic Church’s stance on several issues, including contraception, homosexuality, and divorce.
Q3. Was Angelo Scola a serious contender for the Papacy?
A3. Yes, Angelo Scola was one of the major contenders for the papacy when Pope Benedict XVI resigned in 2013.
Q4. What awards has Angelo Scola received?
A4. Angelo Scola has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career, including the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic and the Grand Decoration of Honor in Gold with Star for Services to the Republic of Austria.
Q5. What is the stance of Angelo Scola on progressive ideas within the Catholic Church?
A5. Angelo Scola has opposed progressive ideas within the Catholic Church, such as the ordination of women and the acceptance of homosexuality.
Q6. What is the recommendation that Angelo Scola gives to the Catholic Church?
A6. Angelo Scola believes that the Church should stick to its roots and teachings.
Q7. What is the significance of Angelo Scola’s appointment as Bishop of Grosseto?
A7. Angelo Scola’s appointment as Bishop of Grosseto paved the way for his rise to power in the Catholic Church, as his efforts to promote interfaith dialogue earned him recognition from the Vatican.
Conclusion
Angelo Scola’s rise to power in the Catholic Church is a testament to his dedication and hard work. Despite facing several challenges and opposition throughout his career, Scola has remained true to his beliefs and values. As he continues to serve the Church, his contributions towards traditional Catholicism and interfaith dialogue are truly invaluable.