Pope Leo XIV has appointed Cardinal Baldassare Reina as the new Grand Chancellor of the Pontifical John Paul II Theological Institute, replacing Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia. This appointment follows Paglia's controversial tenure, marked by restructuring, curriculum changes, and remarks that drew criticism. The restructuring led to a shift away from the theology of the body and a decline in enrollment. Cardinal Reina's appointment aims to reestablish the institute's original mission and heal internal divisions.
11 days ago
Pope Leo XIV has appointed Cardinal Baldassare Reina as the new Grand Chancellor of the Pontifical John Paul II Theological Institute for Marriage and Family Sciences, replacing Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia 1 2 3. The announcement signals a significant shift in direction for the institute 1. This move is one of the first major personnel changes under the new pontificate 2 3.
Archbishop Paglia's tenure, beginning in 2016 under Pope Francis, was marked by controversy 1 2. His leadership saw turbulent reforms, including revised statutes in 2019 that centralized faculty hiring 1 2. Many veteran faculty members were removed, and the curriculum was reoriented towards a "new pastoral theology" 1 2. Critics argued this new direction leaned too heavily on sociology and secular anthropology, moving away from moral theology 2. Paglia also faced criticism for controversial statements on issues like euthanasia and abortion 1 2 3. Enrollment at the institute reportedly declined following these changes 2.
Cardinal Reina's appointment is seen by Vatican insiders as a reaffirmation of the institute's original mission 1. His appointment restores a long-standing custom of aligning the role of Grand Chancellor with the Pope’s Vicar for Rome 1 2. Reina, unlike Paglia, is considered a less theologically controversial pick 2. He has emphasized the importance of new evangelization and adherence to the solid foundation of Holy Scripture and God's revelations 2. His rapid rise within the Church includes roles as rector of a seminary, auxiliary bishop of Rome, and vicar-general of the Diocese of Rome 2 3.
The Grand Chancellor holds significant responsibilities within the Pontifical John Paul II Theological Institute 1 2. These responsibilities include safeguarding doctrinal fidelity and academic excellence 1. The Grand Chancellor also oversees faculty appointments and ensures the institute remains in communion with the Church’s magisterium 1 2. While not involved in day-to-day operations, the Grand Chancellor proposes the institute’s president, vice-president, and professors 2.
How does the Church define marriage and family?
This is a factual update regarding leadership within the Catholic Church and its institutions. Here's a breakdown:
The John Paul II Institute: This refers to the Pontifical John Paul II Theological Institute for Marriage and Family Sciences. Pope John Paul II established the Institute to explore the truth of marriage and family through scientific methods . The Institute has a unique structure, with a central branch at the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome and branches on various continents . It serves as an academic center of reference for the Church, focusing on sciences related to marriage and family .
Cardinal Baldassare Reina: Cardinal Reina is the current Vicar General for the diocese of Rome and Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of Saint John Lateran .
Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia: Archbishop Paglia previously served as the Grand Chancellor of the John Paul II Pontifical Theological Institute .
Leadership Change: The statement indicates that Cardinal Reina has been appointed to lead the John Paul II Institute, replacing Archbishop Paglia.
Significance: The Pontifical Council for the Family promotes pastoral care of the family by implementing the teachings of the Magisterium . The John Paul II Institute contributes to this mission through theological study and pastoral formation . This change in leadership may signal a shift in emphasis or direction within the Institute's work.