Two Top Vatican Officials Appointed as Bishops
Pope Francis has appointed two high-ranking officials within the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, a pivotal Vatican office established in 1542, to serve as bishops. This decision reflects the Pope's recognition of their expertise and commitment to upholding the Church's teachings.
New Roles for Key Officials
Monsignor John Kennedy, the secretary of the dicastery's disciplinary section, will now be an archbishop and hold the titular see of Ossero, a historic diocese in Croatia. Monsignor Philippe Curbelié, the undersecretary of the dicastery, will be elevated to the position of bishop, with the titular see of Utica. While the Vatican has not yet announced a date for their episcopal ordinations, these appointments mark a significant step in their careers.
Disciplinary Section's Importance
The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith is responsible for safeguarding the Church's doctrines and promoting theological and moral integrity. The disciplinary section, which Kennedy headed, plays a crucial role in addressing abuse cases within the Church. His elevation suggests a recognition of his experience and dedication to tackling these sensitive issues.
A Focus on Protecting Minors
The appointments are believed to strengthen the dicastery's ability to communicate effectively with bodies like the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, which was established by Pope Francis in 2014. The Commission focuses on promoting responsible practices within dioceses to protect minors and vulnerable adults from abuse. While operating under the umbrella of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, the commission has its own regulations and officials.
Archbishop-Elect Kennedy's Journey
Monsignor John Kennedy, a priest ordained in the Archdiocese of Dublin, Ireland in 1993, has been a key figure in the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith since 2003. He has consistently risen through the ranks, demonstrating his competence and commitment. His appointment as archbishop is a testament to his dedication to upholding the Church's teachings and serving its mission.
Bishop-Elect Curbelié's Background
Monsignor Philippe Curbelié, born in 1968 in France, was ordained a priest in the Diocese of Toulouse in 1995. He distinguished himself in academia, serving as dean of the faculty of theology at the Institut Catholique de Toulouse and as a professor of dogmatic theology. This appointment acknowledges his intellectual contributions and commitment to the Church's mission.
Significance of the Appointments
These appointments signal Pope Francis's emphasis on strengthening the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. The elevation of these officials highlights their expertise in tackling complex issues within the Church. The appointments also underscore the importance of the disciplinary section in safeguarding the Church's integrity and upholding its mission to protect vulnerable individuals.
A New Chapter in Service to the Church
The appointments of Monsignor John Kennedy and Monsignor Philippe Curbelié as archbishop and bishop respectively mark a significant milestone in their careers. Their dedication to the Church and their commitment to upholding its teachings will continue to shape their service in these elevated positions. Their work will undoubtedly contribute to the Church's mission to spread the Gospel and promote the well-being of all, especially the most vulnerable among us.
