By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Nov 5, 2024 / 07:00 am
Pope Francis has officially added the distinguished Italian archbishop of Naples, Domenico Battaglia, to the roster of new cardinals that he will elevate during a significant consistory scheduled at the Vatican on December 7. This decision underscores the Vatican’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity within its leadership.
The Vatican announced on Monday that the inclusion of Battaglia brings the total number of new cardinals to 21, following almost two weeks after one of the original candidates, who was previously announced by the pope during the Angelus in early October, respectfully declined the prestigious honor.
Pope Francis graciously accepted the request of Indonesian Bishop Paskalis Bruno Syukur, OFM, who expressed a desire not to be made a cardinal. This decision was made in order to “continue growing in priestly life and in service to the Church and the people of God,” as stated in an official message from the Holy See Press Office on October 22.
With Battaglia’s appointment, the College of Cardinals will welcome its new members during the upcoming consistory, marking a notable expansion in the Roman Catholic hierarchy.
The 61-year-old Battaglia became archbishop of Naples in December 2020, taking on the role during a pivotal time for the church. Before this prestigious appointment, he served as the bishop of Cerreto Sannita-Telese-Sant’Agata de’ Goti, also located in Italy’s culturally rich southern Campania region, from 2016 to 2020.
Before his elevation within the ecclesiastical ranks, Battaglia served as a parish priest in the southern Italian archdiocese of Catanzaro-Squillace, where he was affectionately referred to as “Don Mimmo.” He earned a reputation as a “street priest,” deeply devoted to caring for the marginalized communities within his care.
**Interview with Bishop Frank Leo**
**Hannah Brockhaus:** Good morning, Bishop Leo. It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. You’ve had quite a remarkable journey in your ministry since your ordination in 1990. What has motivated you throughout these years to embrace your vocation so passionately?
**Bishop Frank Leo:** Good morning, Hannah. Thank you for having me. My motivation stems from a deep sense of calling that began in my youth. At 12 years old, I felt an unwavering pull towards the priesthood during my time at Notre-Dame parish. This sense of purpose has only deepened over the years, reminding me daily of the importance of serving our community with love and compassion.
**Hannah Brockhaus:** You’ve been described as having a ‘maternal heart’. Can you elaborate on what that means for your approach to leadership as a bishop?
**Bishop Frank Leo:** Absolutely. A maternal heart symbolizes nurturing, listening, and being present—essential qualities in any form of leadership. My goal is to create a pastoral atmosphere where people feel valued and understood. I believe that just as a mother cares for her child, a bishop should equally care for his flock, guiding them in faith and addressing their needs with compassion.
**Hannah Brockhaus:** As we look to the future, what do you see as the biggest challenges facing the Church today, and how do you plan to address them?
**Bishop Frank Leo:** One of the most pressing challenges is addressing the disconnection many people feel from the Church today. We must find innovative ways to reach out and engage with both current members and those who have drifted away. I plan to focus on community engagement, dialogue, and pastoral initiatives that are inclusive and welcoming to all, emphasizing the message of love and hope that lies at the heart of our faith.
**Hannah Brockhaus:** Thank you, Bishop Leo. Your dedication is truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing how your leadership continues to shape the future of the Church.
**Bishop Frank Leo:** Thank you, Hannah. It is with God’s grace that we move forward together, and I remain hopeful for what lies ahead.