Deaths on February 8

Giovanni Cheli, Italian cardinal (b. 1918)

A Distinguished Ecclesiastic: The Life and Service of Cardinal Giovanni Cheli

Giovanni Cheli (October 4, 1918 – February 8, 2013) was a distinguished Italian prelate of the Catholic Church whose remarkable career spanned decades, marked by significant contributions in both the diplomatic service of the Holy See and the senior echelons of the Roman Curia. His dedicated service to the universal Church culminated in his elevation to the esteemed College of Cardinals in 1998 by Pope John Paul II, recognizing his profound impact on the Church's global mission and its administrative functions.

A Life of Service: Diplomatic Career

Born in Turin, Italy, Giovanni Cheli was ordained a priest on June 21, 1942. His intellectual prowess and commitment to the Church led him to pursue advanced studies in canon law, eventually preparing him for a pivotal role in the Church’s international relations. In 1952, he formally entered the diplomatic service of the Holy See, the sovereign entity representing the Pope and the Catholic Church in international affairs. This specialized service is a crucial instrument for fostering peace, promoting human rights, and maintaining diplomatic relations with countries worldwide. Over the years, Archbishop Cheli served in various nunciatures and apostolic delegations across the globe, gaining invaluable experience in diverse cultural and geopolitical landscapes. A particularly notable assignment included his tenure as the Apostolic Delegate to Jerusalem and Palestine from 1973 to 1978. In this sensitive capacity, he acted as the Pope’s official representative, managing the Holy See’s interests and fostering relationships in a region of immense religious and political significance, especially concerning the Christian presence in the Holy Land.

Leadership in the Roman Curia

Following his extensive and successful diplomatic career, Archbishop Cheli transitioned to significant leadership roles within the Roman Curia, the complex administrative apparatus of the Holy See that assists the Pope in governing the universal Church. From 1986 to 1989, he served as the Pro-President of the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People. This dicastery, a vital department of the Roman Curia, is specifically responsible for the pastoral care and advocacy for migrants, refugees, exiles, and all those involved in the phenomenon of human mobility, including seafarers, air travelers, and even circus people. His leadership in this role directly addressed critical humanitarian issues, advocating fiercely for the dignity and fundamental rights of vulnerable populations. He was subsequently appointed President of the same Pontifical Council in 1989, a position he held with distinction until 1997. During his presidency, he played a crucial role in shaping the Church's compassionate and practical response to the rapidly evolving global migration challenges, consistently fostering solidarity, promoting integration, and offering spiritual and material support to those on the move.

Elevation to the College of Cardinals

In profound recognition of his lifelong dedication, vast experience, and distinguished service to the Holy See and the Church, Giovanni Cheli was created a Cardinal Deacon by Pope John Paul II in the Consistory of February 21, 1998. This elevation placed him among the highest ranks of the Catholic Church hierarchy, entrusting him with the title of Cardinal and assigning him the titular church of San Pio V a Villa Carpegna in Rome. Cardinals serve as the Pope's closest principal advisors and, if under the age of 80, are eligible to vote in a papal conclave, the solemn assembly that elects a new Pope. Cardinal Cheli, having celebrated his 80th birthday later in October 1998, consequently ceased to be an elector in any future conclave. His cardinalate affirmed his immense contributions and enduring influence within the Church until his peaceful passing on February 8, 2013, at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cardinal Giovanni Cheli and the Holy See's Service

What is the Holy See's diplomatic service?

The Holy See's diplomatic service, distinct from the Vatican City State, represents the Pope and the Catholic Church in international relations. Its core mission is to promote peace, defend human rights, and foster diplomatic ties with nations worldwide, often through papal representatives known as Apostolic Nuncios (ambassadors) or Apostolic Delegates, like Cardinal Cheli once was.

What is the Roman Curia and what was Cardinal Cheli's significant role within it?

The Roman Curia is the administrative body that assists the Pope in the governance of the universal Catholic Church. It comprises various dicasteries (departments), tribunals, and offices. Cardinal Cheli served prominently as the President of the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People, a crucial department focused on the pastoral care and advocacy for migrants, refugees, and other mobile populations, addressing their spiritual and humanitarian needs globally.

What is the significance of being made a Cardinal in the Catholic Church?

Being made a Cardinal is one of the highest honors and appointments in the Catholic Church, personally bestowed by the Pope. Cardinals are traditionally appointed as his principal advisors, forming the College of Cardinals. Those under the age of 80 also hold the significant responsibility of participating in the papal conclave to elect a new Pope. This appointment signifies a profound trust, recognition of a prelate's extensive service, wisdom, and continued influence within the Church.