Fr. Raniero Card. Cantalamessa

The whole Order extends its deepest gratitude to Father Raniero Card. Cantalamessa who, after 44 years of service, leaves the post of Preacher of the Pontifical Household. Scrolling through the pages of Father Raniero's life, one can revisit the intense and extraordinary period of the “turning point” of the Second Vatican Council, to which he was a witness but also a protagonist, thanks to his ecumenical sensitivity, his attention to the signs of the Spirit and his dedication to the service of the Word. As Preacher of the Papal Household, beginning in 1980, Father Raniero addressed his reflections to three popes (John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis), straddling decisive stages in the recent life of the Church. He is truly a figure without precedent.

We therefore wish to draw close to him spiritually and give thanks to God for all the good he has accomplished in this very demanding ministry of evangelization. Thank you immensely, Father Raniero, for your spirituality, your preaching, your ministry and your faithfulness in proclaiming the Word to humanity in the world today. May the Lord reward your work.