Jean-Marc Aveline Elected President of French Bishops' Conference

The Archbishop of Marseille assumes leadership as the Church prepares new measures for abuse survivors and faces calls for reform.

Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, Archbishop of Marseille, has been elected president of the Conference of Bishops of France during the plenary assembly in Lourdes.
He succeeds Éric de Moulins-Beaufort and will begin his three-year term, renewable once, in June 2025.
Aveline is expected to prioritize addressing sexual abuse within the Church, with plans for a new initiative to support adult victims set to be announced soon.
Known for his close relationship with Pope Francis, Aveline's influence within the Vatican has fueled speculation about his potential candidacy for the papacy.
Having served in Marseille for over four decades, Aveline is recognized for his charisma, strategic acumen, and commitment to local and global Church issues.