Pope Leo XIV commends Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re for his service leading the College of Cardinals.
Pope Leo XIV has praised Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re for his dedicated service to the Catholic Church, describing his contribution as an edifying testimony of love for the institution and the papacy.
The Vatican leader issued these remarks in a formal letter following the resignation of the cardinal as Dean Emeritus of the College of Cardinals, according to a statement published in the Holy See Press Office Bulletin on October 12, 2026.
In the communication dated October 11, 2026, the pontiff expressed gratitude to the senior cleric for serving in the demanding position for more than six years, according to information published by punchng.
Vatican Service and Papal Collaboration
The letter highlighted the extensive contributions of Cardinal Re to the Holy See and his collaborative work alongside successive popes throughout his long ecclesiastical career.
Pope Leo described the cardinal as a trusted collaborator of successive pontiffs, particularly Pope John Paul II, who originally appointed him to several prominent positions within the Roman Curia.
According to the official document, his early administrative roles included serving as Assessor of the Secretariat of State, Secretary of the Congregation for Bishops, and Substitute of the Secretariat of State.
Role During the Great Jubilee
The pontiff specifically recalled the vital role played by the cardinal during the Great Jubilee of 2000, directing offices that supported papal pastoral missions.
During this historic milestone, he coordinated offices supporting the teaching and pastoral mission of Pope John Paul II, accompanying him on apostolic journeys across Italy and various global destinations.
At the dawn of the new millennium, Pope John Paul II appointed him head of the Congregation for Bishops and elevated him to the College of Cardinals.
Praise for Leadership and Ministry
Pope Leo noted that his long tenure provided him with extensive knowledge of the universal Church and helped him establish numerous enduring personal relationships globally.
The Pope emphasized that many people deeply appreciated his priestly witness during solemn Eucharistic celebrations, most recently noting his presence at the funeral of Pope Francis.
Concluding the letter, the pontiff commended the faith and ministry of the cardinal, referencing his episcopal motto, which reflects a lifelong reliance on divine strength and grace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re?
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re is a senior Catholic Church official who recently stepped down as Dean Emeritus of the College of Cardinals after serving in the role for more than six years.
What did Pope Leo XIV say about the cardinal?
Pope Leo XIV praised his service as an edifying testimony of love for the Church and the Pope, highlighting his decades of trusted collaboration with successive pontiffs at the Vatican.
Which popes did Cardinal Re work with?
Cardinal Re worked closely with multiple pontiffs, most notably serving as a key collaborator and administrator under Pope John Paul II and later participating in events like the funeral of Pope Francis.
