Definition
Beniamino Stella (born 10 March 1941) is an Italian prelate of the Roman Catholic Church who has served as Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy since 21 May 2013 and was elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2014.
Overview
Stella was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Tursi-Lagonegro on 29 June 1965. After obtaining a licentiate in canon law, he entered the diplomatic service of the Holy See, holding postings in several nunciatures. He was appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Bolivia (1993–1996), Nuncio to the European Community (1996–1999), Nuncio to the Philippines (1999–2002), and Nuncio to the United Nations in New York (2002–2008). In December 2008, Pope Benedict XVI named him Archbishop of Siena‑Colle di Siena and member of the Congregation for Bishops. Pope Francis appointed him Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy on 21 May 2013. He was created Cardinal-Deacon of San Pietro in Vincoli on 22 February 2014 and later elevated to the order of cardinal priests.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Beniamino” is the Italian form of “Benjamin,” derived from the Hebrew בִּנְיָמִין (Binyāmīn), meaning “son of the right hand” or “son of the south.” The surname “Stella” is Italian for “star,” historically used as a nickname or occupational name.
Characteristics
- Ecclesiastical Roles: Archbishop, Apostolic Nuncio, Prefect of a major dicastery, Cardinal.
- Diplomatic Service: Over two decades in the Holy See’s diplomatic corps, representing the Vatican in various international contexts.
- Academic Background: Licentiate in canon law; has contributed to scholarly works on canon law and Church governance.
- Publications: Authored articles on ecclesiastical law, the role of the clergy, and the Church’s diplomatic relations.
- Notable Initiatives: As Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, he has overseen the formation and pastoral care of diocesan priests and deacons, and has addressed issues of clergy conduct and clergy‑laity relations.
Related Topics
- Roman Catholic Church hierarchy
- Congregation for the Clergy (Dicastery of the Holy See)
- College of Cardinals
- Apostolic Nunciature
- Canon law
- Pope Francis’s curial reforms
- Vatican diplomatic service