Pope makes two key appointments to Italian hierarchy

October 27, 2015

Pope Francis has made two important appointments to the Italian hierarchy.

Bishop Matteo Maria Zuppi, who has been an auxiliary of the Rome diocese since 2012, will become the Archbishop of Bologna, succeeding Cardinal Carlo Caffarra. Archbishop-elect Zuppi, who is 60 years old, is associated with the Sant’Egidio community, and has taken a special interest in service to the poor. Cardinal Caffarra, who was regarded as one of the more “conservative” members of the Italian hierarchy, is stepping down at the age of 77, having served for more than two years beyond the ordinary retirement age.

Msgr. Corrado Lorefice, a priest of the Noto diocese, will become Archbishop of Palermo. The appointment is unusual insofar as Msgr. Lorefice, who is not yet a bishop, will become archbishop of a major metropolitan see. The Archbishop-elect has gained a reputation for his public opposition to corruption in government and to organized crime—both major concerns in the Siclian archdiocese. He will replace Cardinal Paolo Romeo, who is also 77 years old, and thus submitted his resignation two years ago. 

 

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Further information:

• Other Pontifical Acts (VIS)