Cardinal Vicente Bokalic Iglic, the Archbishop of Santiago del Estero and currently Primate of Argentina, is an old friend of Pope Francis who is known for his pastoral outreach and restructuring of diocesan operations.

Born on June 11, 1952, in Lanús, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, Bokalic comes from an immigrant family from Slovenia who settled in Argentina in 1949. Bokalic entered the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians) in 1970, completing his studies in philosophy and theology at Jesuit institutions. He took his final vows in 1976 and was ordained a priest on April 1, 1978.

Bokalic’s early ministry included roles in vocational and youth ministries within the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires. He served various positions within his congregation, including as a formator and bursar at the Vincentian seminary from 1983 to 1986, and later as its superior from 1987 to 1990. His pastoral work extended to several parishes and missionary activities across Argentina.

In March 2010, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Bokalic auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires and he was consecrated bishop by then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio. Pope Francis appointed him as the bishop of Santiago del Estero in 2013 and he was installed on March 9, 2014.

His leadership was recognized when the diocese was elevated to an archdiocese on July 22, 2024, making him its first archbishop and granting him the title “Primate of Argentina.” He was elevated to cardinal on December 7, 2024.

Throughout his career, Bokalic has been involved in various initiatives within the Church, including restructuring diocesan operations and enhancing pastoral outreach. His achievements reflect a commitment to evangelization and community service.

Bokalic’s close association with Pope Francis has led to scrutiny regarding their shared history during times of political turbulence in Argentina. However, no significant controversies directly involve him that have been publicly documented.

Cardinal Bokalic Iglic is fluent in Spanish and is also known to speak Italian and English. His linguistic skills aid his pastoral work and engagement with diverse communities within the Catholic Church.