Definition
Camillo Ruini (born 25 December 1931) is an Italian prelate of the Roman Catholic Church who has served as a cardinal, Archbishop of Bologna, and Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy. He was also Vicar General of His Holiness for the Diocese of Rome from 1991 to 2008.
Overview
Born in Lizzano, Province of Bari, Italy, Ru Ruini was ordained a priest on 30 June 1954 after completing his studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. He entered the Roman Curia, holding various positions within the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and later the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples. In 1991, Pope John Paul II appointed him Vicar General of Rome, granting him administrative authority over the diocese on behalf of the Pope. He was elevated to the cardinalate on 26 November 1994, receiving the title of Cardinal-Priest of San Lorenzo in Panisperna.
In 2002, Pope John Paul II appointed Ruini as Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, a role he held until his resignation in 2009, after which he was succeeded by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. He also served as Archbishop (personal title) of Bologna from 2002 to 2008, resigning upon reaching the canonical age limit. Throughout his career, Ruini has been known for his conservative theological stance and his involvement in Church governance, particularly concerning clergy formation and discipline.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Camillo” is the Italian form of “Camillus,” a Roman cognomen derived from a Latin term meaning “attendant at religious ceremonies” or “youth serving in a temple.” “Ruini” is an Italian surname, likely originating from the southern region of Italy, though specific etymological details for the surname are not widely documented.
Characteristics
- Ecclesiastical Roles: Cardinal, Vicar General of Rome, Prefect of the Congregation for the Cleracy, Archbishop (personal title) of Bologna.
- Theological Orientation: Generally regarded as a conservative voice within the Roman Curia, emphasizing traditional doctrine, clerical discipline, and the preservation of liturgical norms.
- Publications: Author of several pastoral letters and theological essays, often addressing issues of clergy formation, ecclesial authority, and moral teachings of the Church.
- Awards and Honors: Received numerous ecclesiastical honors, including the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.
Related Topics
- Roman Catholic Church hierarchy
- Congregation for the Clergy
- Vicar General of Rome (Vicariate of Rome)
- Pope John Paul II
- Cardinal-electors in the 2005 and 2013 papal conclaves
- Italian Cardinals of the 20th and 21st centuries
- Conservative theological movements within contemporary Catholicism.