Agostino Vallini, Italian cardinal and vicar general of Rome

Born on April 17, 1940, Agostino Vallini is a distinguished Italian prelate of the Catholic Church, whose extensive career has been marked by significant responsibilities and a steadfast commitment to ecclesiastical service. A prelate, in the context of the Catholic Church, refers to a high-ranking cleric, such as a bishop, who holds jurisdiction over a specific area or institution. Cardinal Vallini's journey has seen him rise to some of the most prominent positions within the Church's hierarchy, notably serving in key administrative and pastoral roles in the heart of Rome.

Elevation to the College of Cardinals

A pivotal moment in Agostino Vallini's illustrious ecclesiastical career came in 2006 when he was elevated to the prestigious rank of cardinal. This appointment, bestowed directly by the Pope, places him within the College of Cardinals, a venerable body of senior ecclesiastical leaders. Cardinals serve as the Pope's principal advisors and, perhaps most notably, are responsible for electing a new Pope during a papal conclave when the See of Rome becomes vacant. This elevation signifies a deep trust in his wisdom, experience, and fidelity to the Church.

Serving as Vicar General of Rome

From 2008 to 2017, Cardinal Vallini undertook one of his most significant and demanding assignments, serving as the Vicar General for the Diocese of Rome. This is an exceptionally important office because the Pope himself is the Bishop of Rome. In this role, the Vicar General acts as the Pope's primary delegate and chief administrator for the pastoral and administrative governance of the diocese, overseeing its daily operations, the clergy, and the spiritual well-being of the faithful in the Eternal City. His nine-year tenure in this demanding position underscores his trusted leadership and profound understanding of the Church's intricate administrative structure and pastoral needs.

Archpriest Emeritus of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran

In addition to his duties as Vicar General, Cardinal Vallini also holds the distinguished title of Archpriest emeritus of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran. This ancient and immensely significant basilica is not merely another church; it stands as the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome and is revered as the mother church of all Catholic churches worldwide. As Archpriest, he would have been directly responsible for its liturgical life, its pastoral care, and the preservation of its profound spiritual and historical legacy. The designation 'emeritus' indicates that he has stepped down from the active role while retaining the honorific title, a lasting testament to his dedicated service to this globally important sacred site and the Roman See.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cardinal Agostino Vallini

What is a prelate in the Catholic Church?
A prelate is a high-ranking cleric, such as a bishop or abbot, who holds a significant office with jurisdiction within the Church. Cardinal Vallini, as an Italian cardinal, fits this description, having held various authoritative positions.
What is the significance of being a cardinal?
Being a cardinal is one of the highest honors in the Catholic Church. Cardinals serve as the Pope's closest advisors and are members of the College of Cardinals, whose most solemn duty is to elect a new Pope during a papal conclave.
What did Cardinal Vallini do as Vicar General of Rome?
From 2008 to 2017, Cardinal Vallini served as the Vicar General of Rome, acting as the Pope's chief deputy for the daily administration and pastoral oversight of the Diocese of Rome, effectively managing the local church on behalf of the Pope, who is also its Bishop.
What is the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran?
The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is the cathedral church of the Diocese of Rome and holds the unique distinction of being considered the mother church of all Catholic churches worldwide. It is a site of immense historical and spiritual importance.
What does "Archpriest emeritus" mean?
The title "Archpriest emeritus" indicates that Cardinal Vallini previously served as the Archpriest, or principal priest, in charge of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran. He has since retired from that active role, but retains the honorific title in recognition of his past service to this significant basilica.