Giovanni Cardinal Benelli

Giovanni Cardinal Benelli (b. May 12, 1921 at Poggiole di Vernio, Italy, d. October 26, 1982 at Florence, Italy) was one of many Italian cardinals believed to be among the papabili, those considered electable, at the Papal conclaves of 1978. He began his priestly career during the War in 1943. Benelli quickly impressed the Church and rose through the ranks.

At age 45, he was named Papal Nuncio to Senegal. Shortly after his appointment, he joined the Roman Curia as chief representative of Pope Paul VI. He served this role for ten years.

In 1977, Benelli was named Archbishop of Florence. Upon Paul's death on August 6, 1978 , Benelli was considered the favorite to replace him.

Instead, Paul was replaced by Pope John Paul I. There was a second conclave in September after the 33 day reign of John Paul I and Benelli was considered a favorite because of his close ties to Paul and his Italian heritage. The position instead went to Archbishop Karol Wojtyla who took the name John Paul II.

Benelli continued as Cardinal Archbishop of Florence until he was felled by a sudden heart attack in 1982.