Pope Leo XIV Appoints New Personal Secretary

Vatican City, September 27, 2025 – Bishop Giovanni Paccosi of San Miniato announced on Saturday that Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Marco Billeri, a priest of the Italian diocese, as his second personal secretary.

Fr. Billeri, ordained in 2016, pursued further studies in Rome, where he earned a doctorate in canon law. His ministry has included service as judge at the Ecclesiastical Tribunal of Tuscany, defender of the bond at the diocesan tribunals of San Miniato and Volterra, episcopal master of ceremonies, and secretary of the presbyteral council. Most recently, he was associate pastor at the parish of Saints Stephen and Martin in San Miniato Basso.

In a statement, Bishop Paccosi described the appointment as “a great gift” for the diocese. He recalled receiving a personal phone call from the Pope the previous week seeking his consent to release Fr. Billeri for the new mission. “I felt both joy and a sense of vertigo, thinking that Father Marco will now be at the heart of the Church of Christ,” he said. The bishop invited the faithful to pray for Fr. Billeri and for the diocese, emphasising that closer ties with the Pope and the universal Church should strengthen awareness of their own mission.

Fr. Billeri will work alongside the Pope’s first personal secretary, Peruvian Father Edgard Iván Rimaycuna Inga.

The appointment underscores the Pope’s close relationship with the Diocese of San Miniato, as well as the trust placed in young clergy with strong academic and pastoral formation.

Background on Fr. Marco Billeri

Fr. Billeri’s academic achievements and tribunal experience have prepared him for this demanding role at the heart of the Vatican. His service in San Miniato included significant responsibilities in diocesan governance, liturgy, and pastoral care, positioning him well to support the Pope in his daily ministry.

Bishop’s Reflection

Bishop Paccosi expressed both pride and humility at the news, affirming the diocese’s unity with the Holy Father. “Closer bonds with the Pope strengthen our awareness of our own mission,” he said, urging prayers for Fr. Billeri as he begins this service to the universal Church.

The appointment reflects the Pope’s continuing attention to the role of personal secretaries, who provide vital assistance in coordinating papal schedules, correspondence, and pastoral initiatives.

Source : CNA

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