Father Lombardi steps down from Vatican Radio post

February 22, 2016

Father Federico Lombardi, the chief Vatican spokesman, is stepping down from his post as general director of Vatican Radio. Father Lombardi will continue to serve as director of the Vatican press office.

Alberto Gasbarri, who has been working under the title of administrative director of Vatican Radio, will also step down at the end of February. Gasbarri—who is better known for his role as “advance man” for papal travel—had announced his retirement in January.

In announcing the departures, the Vatican’s new Secretariat for Communications noted that Vatican Radio is being merged with the Vatican Television Center, as part of the larger restructuring of all Vatican communications agencies. In light of those changes, Father Lombardi and Gasbarri will not be replaced in their current positions.

Giacomo Ghisani, the deputy director of the Secretariat for Communications, will assume interim responsibilities for the day-to-day management of Vatican Radio during the period of restructuring.

 

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Further information:

• Father Federico Lombardi to bid farewell to Vatican Radio (Vatican Radio)
• Communique of the Secretariat for Communications (VIS)
• 'Advance man' for papal trips announces retirement (CWN 1/4)