Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, aged 91, will preside over Pope Francis’ funeral on April 26. He is a significant figure in the Roman Catholic Church, having dedicated over 50 years to the Roman curia. This funeral marks a historical event, as Pope Francis will be the first pope in over a century to be buried outside the Vatican.
Re, born in Brescia, Italy, became dean of the College of Cardinals in January. His role includes overseeing the cardinal electors who will select the next pope. Although he will not participate in the upcoming papal conclave due to the exclusion of cardinals over 80, he has a wealth of experience, having contributed to two previous conclaves: one in 2005 that elected Pope Benedict XVI, and another in 2013 that saw the election of Pope Francis.
Re’s journey began in 1957 with his ordination for the Diocese of Brescia. He joined the Roman curia in 1963 and held several prominent positions, including diplomatic roles in Panama and Iran, and later as the Substitute for General Affairs of the Vatican’s Secretariat of State. In 2000, he was appointed Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, shaping bishop appointments worldwide. He became a cardinal in 2001 and has played a crucial role in ecclesiastical governance.
Described as affable and efficient, Re is known for his honest counsel, sometimes providing differing perspectives from those of Pope Francis. Recently, he led a Rosary for the pope, emphasizing Francis’ legacy as a “pilgrim of hope” and urging the faithful to keep him in their prayers.
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