Cardinal Angelo Amato, the emeritus prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, passed away on December 31, 2024, at the age of 86. His death marks the end of a notable chapter within the Catholic Church, characterized by years of dedicated service and influential roles.
Born on June 8, 1938, in Molfetta, Bari, Cardinal Amato was the first of four children from a family of naval builders. His early education began at the Nautical Institute of Bari, where he pursued studies aimed at becoming a maritime captain. Yet, after two years, he shifted his path, entering the Salesian aspirantate at Torre Annunziata in 1953, eventually taking his first religious vows in 1956.
After relocating to Rome, Amato earned his philosophy license from the then Pontifical Salesian Athenaeum, followed by studies at the Salesian University where he obtained his theology license. He was ordained as a priest on December 22, 1967. His academic pursuits continued as he later achieved a doctorate in theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 1974, beginning his teaching career soon after.
The breadth of his theological expertise would lead him to various significant assignments within the Church. For example, he served as secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith starting December 19, 2002, and was consecrated as bishop on January 6, 2003, by Pope John Paul II.
On July 9, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him as the successor to Cardinal José Saraiva Martins, as prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Cardinal Amato was publicly honored for his contributions to theology and church governance, recognized for his involvement and commitment, which culminated with his elevation to cardinal on November 20, 2010.
Throughout his career, Cardinal Amato was noted for his deep commitment to ecumenism and interfaith dialogue. He participated meaningfully in the Conclave of March 2013, which elected Pope Francis. His tenure saw numerous canonization processes, including the beatification of the Venerable Tonino Bello, where he emphasized the importance of holiness as universal and accessible.
Pope Francis expressed condolences following Amato's passing, stating, "I give thanks to God for the edifying testimony of this son of St. John Bosco who dedicated himself with human sensitivity and generosity to the Gospel and the Church." He recalled Amato's dedication and theological preparation, acknowledging his service particularly within the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.
"I assure my prayers for the soul of this good and vigilant servant," the Pope continued, affirming Amato's faithful adherence to his motto, "Sufficit gratia mea," which translates to "My grace is sufficient for you," highlighting the cardinal's faith, even amid the challenges of suffering.
The Mayor of Molfetta, Tommaso Minervini, remarked on the loss, stating, "It is with great participation, on behalf of myself and the Administration, I join the grief experienced by the Church and the families affected by the passing of Cardinal Angelo Amato." He acknowledged Amato's invaluable service to the Holy See and the local community, emphasizing his impactful presence.
Cardinal Amato's funeral is scheduled for January 2, 2025, at the Vatican, with liturgical services presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, followed by Pope Francis leading the final commendation rites.
Reflecting on Amato's legacy, Bishop Domenico Cornacchia remarked, "We hold deep gratitude for Cardinal Amato as a man of faith and tireless pastor who served the universal Church and the people of God with great dedication." His contributions not only impact the Catholic Church but touch many lives, exemplifying how holiness and service intersect within the Christian faith.
Overall, Cardinal Amato’s life was characterized by his meaningful engagement with the Church, its teachings, and its community. His passing marks not just the loss of an influential ecclesiastical figure but also the end of years of exceptional service to his faith, legacy, and the world at large.