Pope Leo XIV Transfers Vatican Basilica's Archpriest Cardinal Gambetti to Head the Archdiocese of Chieti-Vasto

Pope Names Cardinal Gambetti to Lead Archdiocese of Chieti-Vasto

VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV on Saturday named Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, age 60, as the new Archbishop of Chieti-Vasto in the Abruzzo region of Italy. Gambetti transitions to the pastoral role from his Vatican leadership positions as Vicar General for Vatican City, Archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica, and President of the Fabric of Saint Peter.

He takes over from Archbishop Bruno Forte, 77, whose resignation was accepted in accordance with church rules regarding age limits.

Born in Bologna in 1965, Gambetti earned a degree in mechanical engineering before joining the Order of Friars Minor Conventual in 1992. He made his final vows in 1998, earned advanced degrees in theology, and was ordained to the priesthood in 2000.

Gambetti’s early ministry included directing youth and vocational outreach in Emilia-Romagna and serving as Provincial Minister. In 2013, he was appointed General Custos of the Sacred Convent of St. Francis in Assisi, a position he held until late 2020.

Pope Francis elevated him to the College of Cardinals in November 2020 and subsequently appointed him to oversee key Vatican City administrative and judicial duties in 2021 and 2023. Cardinal Gambetti also serves as a member of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.

• New Appointment: Pope Leo XIV has named Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, 60, as the Archbishop of Chieti-Vasto in Abruzzo.

• Succession: He replaces Archbishop Bruno Forte, 77, who retired after reaching the customary age limit.

• Current Roles: Gambetti steps down from his Vatican posts as Vicar General for Vatican City, Archpriest of St. Peter's Basilica, and President of the Fabric of Saint Peter.

• Background & Path:

  • Holds a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Bologna.

  • Joined the Conventual Franciscans in 1992; ordained a priest in 2000.

  • Served as Custos of the Sacred Convent of St. Francis in Assisi (2013–2020).

  • Created a Cardinal by Pope Francis in November 2020.