granmilano
The primaries for the archbishop have been postponed. Good
Don Mario Delpini, who is well-regarded by both the city and the Pope, announced his resignation from the Archdiocese of Milan on 29 July. Leone has, however, granted an extension in order to carefully assess the candidates for his succession
Photo: ANSA
A common joke in newsrooms: the primaries to select the next Archbishop of Milan have officially been postponed by a year, at least until July 2027. Only then will Pope Leo XIV take charge of the complex canonical dossier to oversee the selection of a successor to Mario Delpini, who, having turned 75 on 29 July, had sent a letter to Rome announcing his resignation, as required by the Code of Canon Law. However, it was already known that Pope Prevost, a pragmatic American, would grant a ‘nunc pro tunc’ extension, formalised in recent days as lasting one year: the time needed to assess the names that will be included in the famous ‘shortlist’ of candidates drawn up by the Apostolic Nuncio to Italy, Monsignor Edgar Peña Parra, based on the recommendations of the Lombard bishops.
These are formalities, but it is no secret that ‘Don Mario’, as well as being well-regarded by the clergy and the faithful of the diocese, enjoys the favour and affection of Pope Leo. With his gentle, pastoral nature, his occasionally ironic streak, and his undisguised astonishment at not having been made a cardinal – an incredible fact for Milan – Delpini has earned the city’s affection and respect. He also stood by the city during the dramatic days of the pandemic, with an unforgettable prayer from the roof of the cathedral. Yet despite his gentleness, he has also been able to lash out with harsh words at the city and the weaknesses of its political world. So, if we are to return to politics and the primaries for the next mayor: Delpini’s esteem for Mario Calabresi is no secret, nor is the journalist’s close relationship with Milan’s Catholic community. Wait and see.