Cardinal Camillo Ruini dies aged 95

Rome — Cardinal Camillo Ruini, one of the most influential figures in the Italian Catholic Church over the past three decades, has died in Rome at the age of 95.

The Diocese of Rome announced his death on Tuesday, paying tribute to a man whose leadership and vision helped shape the Church's role in Italian society during a period of profound political and cultural change.

Born in Sassuolo, Emilia Romagna, on 19 February 1931, Ruini served as Vicar General of Rome from 1991 until 2008 and as Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of St John Lateran, the cathedral church of the Bishop of Rome. Earlier in 2008 he had also briefly held the role of Pro-Vicar.

Beyond his responsibilities in the capital, Ruini was a dominant figure in the national Church, serving as president of the Italian Episcopal Conference for sixteen years. During his tenure he became known for his strong defence of Catholic values in public life and his willingness to engage in debates on the country's social and political direction.

In a statement, Cardinal Vicar Baldassare Reina and the Episcopal Council of the Diocese of Rome expressed gratitude for Ruini's long life of Christian service and entrusted him to the mercy of God.

"The Diocese of Rome gives thanks for his long and fruitful Christian life and for his service to the Church," the statement said. "His pastoral leadership from 1991 to 2008 left a profound mark through his intelligence in interpreting the presence of Christians in the city, alongside his responsibilities as president of the Italian Episcopal Conference."

The diocese also highlighted Ruini's ability to understand the major political and social transformations affecting Italy. Church leaders noted that he believed Catholics should not hide their values but rather preserve and defend them while helping society navigate periods of cultural transition.

His episcopal motto, Veritas liberabit nos, meaning "The truth will set us free", reflected the principles that guided his ministry throughout decades of service.

Ruini remained a respected voice within the Church long after stepping down from his official positions, frequently contributing to discussions on faith, ethics and the role of Christianity in contemporary Europe.

A lying in state has been arranged in the Chapel of Our Lady of Perseverance at the Pontifical Minor Roman Seminary, with public access beginning at midday on 17 June. The seminary is located on Viale Aurelia in Rome.

His death marks the end of an era for the Italian Church, which for many years looked to Ruini as one of its most influential pastors and public intellectuals.

PS