A former secretary to Pope John XXIII, he played a crucial role in the Second Vatican Council and was later elevated to cardinal, known for his humble and dedicated service to the Catholic Church.
Loris Francesco Capovilla was an Italian Roman Catholic prelate and cardinal, renowned for his unwavering dedication as the personal secretary to Pope John XXIII from 1958 to 1963. At the time of his elevation to the rank of cardinal in 2014, he was the oldest member of the College of Cardinals, earning him a special place in the annals of Catholic history.
Capovilla was born on October 14, 1915, in Pontelongo, Italy, to Rodolfo Capovilla and Letizia Callegaro. After his father's passing in 1922, he moved to Mestre in 1929, where he began his journey towards priesthood. Capovilla studied at the Patriarchal Seminary of Venice and was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Venice on May 23, 1940, by Cardinal Piazza, the Patriarch of Venice.
During World War II, Capovilla served in military aviation, and later became a Sunday preacher at Radio Venezia from 1945 to 1953. He was also appointed the director of the diocesan weekly La Voce di San Marco in 1949. It was during this period that he formed a close bond with Cardinal Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, later Pope John XXIII, when the cardinal was the Patriarch of Venice.
Capovilla commenced his service under Roncalli on March 15, 1953, and remained by his side as papal secretary after Roncalli's election to the papacy in 1958 until his death in 1963. He claimed to have never referred to himself as Roncalli's friend, instead considering him his bishop, father, and patriarch. Capovilla served as Roncalli's conclavist at the conclave of 1958 that saw the latter's election.
In recognition of his devoted service, Capovilla was made a Domestic Prelate of His Holiness on December 12, 1958. He was elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis on February 22, 2014, at the age of 98, making him the oldest member of the College of Cardinals.
Loris Francesco Capovilla's unwavering dedication to Pope John XXIII and the Catholic Church has left an indelible mark on history. His remarkable life, spanning over a century, serves as a testament to his unshakeable faith and commitment to his calling.
Through his extraordinary life, Capovilla has inspired generations of Catholics and non-Catholics alike, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and motivate others to follow in his footsteps.
Born in 1881
Reformed the Catholic Church, introducing progressive reforms and ecumenical dialogue, and convened the Second Vatican Council.
Born in 1417
A 15th-century pope who played a significant role in the fall of the Western Schism, ending the division in the Catholic Church. He's also known for his lavish spending and nepotism.
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Leader of the Catholic Church from 1978 to 2005, known for helping to end communism in Poland and being a charismatic advocate for human rights and social justice.
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Leader of the Catholic Church from 1978 to 2005, known for helping to end communism in Poland and being a charismatic advocate for human rights and social justice.
99 Years Old
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89 Years Old
The leader of the Catholic Church, known for his progressive stance on social issues and efforts to reform the Church, inspiring millions worldwide.
