Speculation about an upcoming overhaul of the Roman Curia is once again intensifying in Vatican circles. Although the Holy See has not confirmed any changes and, for the time being, everything remains in the realm of rumors, versions about possible moves in some of the main dicasteries—and even about a potential replacement of Cardinal Pietro Parolin at the head of the Secretariat of State—are circulating with increasing insistence in Rome.
According to Tribune Chrétienne, these conversations also point to the possible arrival at the Curia of new figures who have gained relevance in the government of Leo XIV. Among the names that have been strongly circulating in recent weeks is that of Norwegian Bishop Erik Varden.
Parolin, at the center of the betting
The main focus of speculation is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State since 2013 and principal collaborator of the last two pontiffs. A potential replacement would represent the most far-reaching change in the Church’s central government since the beginning of Leo XIV’s pontificate.
According to reports published by the French outlet, the Pope is said to be considering the possibility of assembling a team fully aligned with the priorities of his pontificate, a common evolution in the early years of a new papal administration.
A possible replacement of Parolin should not necessarily be interpreted as a personal judgment on his tenure. The Italian cardinal remains one of the most respected figures in Vatican diplomacy, although his long mandate has been linked to issues such as the agreement between the Holy See and China on the appointment of bishops or the well-known financial case involving the London building.
Erik Varden, a name gaining weight
Among the possible appointments, the name most frequently mentioned in Vatican circles is that of Monsignor Erik Varden, Bishop of Trondheim, the Catholic territorial prelature located in central Norway.
Former Trappist abbot of the English abbey of Mount St Bernard, a convert from Lutheranism and a recognized author on spirituality, Varden has gained notable international prominence in recent years. This is compounded by the trust Leo XIV placed in him by entrusting him with preaching the Lenten spiritual exercises for the Pope, the cardinals, and the heads of the Curia’s dicasteries—a mission traditionally regarded in Rome as a sign of special esteem from the Pontiff.
According to the same reports, his name is repeatedly mentioned in connection with the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, although there is no official confirmation regarding a specific possible assignment.
Awaiting official decisions
Beyond the names, these speculations suggest that Leo XIV may continue to shape his own governing team. However, at present there is no official announcement from the Holy See. As is customary in the Vatican, rumors circulating in curial circles only gain value when confirmed through the daily bulletin of the Holy See Press Office.