Bishop of Crateús
Ailton Menegussi was born in Nova Venécia, in the Diocese of São Mateus, on November 5, 1962. After completing his primary education, he pursued studies in Philosophy (1991–1993) and Theology (1994–1997) at the Institute of Philosophy and Theology of the Archdiocese of Vitória. He also obtained a teaching qualification (*Habilitação para o Magistério*) from the *Escola de Formadores* (ITESC/CRB) in Florianópolis. He was ordained a priest on November 22, 1998. During his priestly ministry, he has held the following positions: Parochial Vicar of the São José parish in Águia Branca and the Nossa Senhora Aparecida parish in Montanha, Diocese of São Mateus (1998–2000); Parochial Vicar in São Mateus (2000–2003); Rector of the João XXIII Minor and Propaedeutic Seminary in São Mateus (2000–2003); Rector of the São Mateus Major Seminary in Carapina, ES (2003–2012); Spiritual Director of the *Maria, Mãe da Igreja* Major Seminary of the Diocese of Colatina in Serra, ES (2003–2012); Coordinator of the Diocesan Vocations Team for the Diocese of São Mateus (2003–2012); and Member of the Formation Council of the Diocese of São Mateus (2007–2012). He currently serves as Parish Priest of the São Francisco de Assis parish in Barra de São Francisco, Diocese of São Mateus.