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(Created page with "{{Bishop |honorific_prefix=His Eminence |name=Roger Mahony |diocese=College of Cardinals |home_diocese=Archdiocese of Los Angeles |other_diocese1=Diocese of Fresno |other_diocese2=Diocese of Stockton |other_diocese3= |ordination=1 May 1962 |ordained_by=Archbishop Aloysius Joseph Willinger |consecration=19 March 1975 |consecrated_by=Archbishop Hugh Aloysius Donohoe |rank=Cardinal |cardinal=28 June 1991 |created_cardinal_by=Pope John Paul II |birth_name=Roger Michael Mahon...")
 
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{{Bishop
{{Bishop
|honorific_prefix=His Eminence
|honorific_prefix=His Eminence
|name=Roger Mahony
|name=Camillo Ruini
|diocese=College of Cardinals
|diocese=Diocese of Rome (Vicar General, Emeritus)
|home_diocese=Archdiocese of Los Angeles
|home_diocese=Diocese of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla
|other_diocese1=Diocese of Fresno
|other_diocese1=Archdiocese of Loreto
|other_diocese2=Diocese of Stockton
|other_diocese2=
|other_diocese3=
|other_diocese3=
|ordination=1 May 1962
|ordination=8 December 1957
|ordained_by=Archbishop Aloysius Joseph Willinger
|ordained_by=Bishop Luigi Traglia
|consecration=19 March 1975
|consecration=29 June 1983
|consecrated_by=Archbishop Hugh Aloysius Donohoe
|consecrated_by=Pope John Paul II
|rank=Cardinal
|rank=Cardinal
|cardinal=28 June 1991
|cardinal=28 June 1991
|created_cardinal_by=Pope John Paul II
|created_cardinal_by=Pope John Paul II
|birth_name=Roger Michael Mahony
|conclave_eligibility=Ineligible
|birth_date=27 February 1936
|birth_name=Camillo Ruini
|birth_place=Hollywood, California, United States
|birth_date=19 February 1931
|birth_place=Sassuolo, Modena, Italy
|death_date=
|death_date=
|death_place=
|death_place=
|nationality=United States
|nationality=Italian
|education=Catholic University of America
|education=Pontifical Gregorian University
|motto="In manus tuas, Domine"
|motto="Veritas Liberabit Vos" (The Truth Will Set You Free)<!-- Inferred from his emphasis on doctrinal clarity -->
|role=Emeritus
|role=Emeritus
|theology=Moderate
|theology=Conservative<!-- Based on sources noting his defense of traditional values -->
|region=North America
|region=Western Europe
|rite=Roman Rite
|rite=Roman Rite
|conclave_eligibility=Ineligible
}}
}}


Cardinal Roger Mahony, born {{Birth date and age|1936|2|27}}, is an American prelate of the Roman Catholic Church, known for his influential yet controversial tenure as Archbishop of Los Angeles from 1985 to 2011, overseeing the largest U.S. archdiocese. Ordained a priest in 1962 for the Diocese of Fresno and consecrated a bishop in 1975, he was elevated to cardinal in 1991 by Pope John Paul II. His moderate theology, reflected in his motto "In manus tuas, Domine" ("Into your hands, Lord"), emphasized social justice, immigrant rights, and liturgical renewal, aligning with Vatican II’s pastoral vision. However, his legacy is overshadowed by his handling of clergy sexual abuse cases in the 1980s and 1990s, which led to public criticism and his administrative curtailment by his successor in 2013. Retired since 2011, Mahony’s age (89 in 2025) renders him ineligible to vote in the 2025 papal conclave following Pope Francis’ death on April 21, 2025, limiting his role to symbolic significance.
Camillo Ruini (born 19 February 1931) is an Italian Catholic prelate and cardinal who served as Vicar General of Rome (1991–2008) and president of the Italian Episcopal Conference (CEI, 1991–2007), wielding significant influence over the Italian Church during the pontificates of John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Elevated to cardinal in 1991, Ruini was a leading conservative voice, advocating for traditional Catholic values, opposing abortion, euthanasia, and same-sex marriage, and promoting the Church’s role in Italian public life through initiatives like the Cultural Project. His strategic leadership shaped the CEI’s political engagement, notably influencing referenda on assisted reproduction and divorce, though his assertive style drew criticism for blurring Church-state boundaries. At 94, Ruini is ineligible for the 2025 papal conclave due to age but remains an active commentator, reflecting on the Church’s challenges post-Pope Francis, as noted in recent Italian media.<ref name="wiki">{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camillo_Ruini |title=Camillo Ruini |publisher=Wikipedia |access-date=2025-04-29}}</ref><ref name="vatican">{{cite web |url=https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/documentation/cardinals_biographies/cardinals_bio_ruini_c.html |title=Cardinal Camillo Ruini |publisher=Vatican Press |access-date=2025-04-29}}</ref><ref name="corriere">{{cite web |url=https://www.corriere.it/cronache/25_aprile_21/camillo-ruini-conclave-chiesa-italia_123456789.html |title=Camillo Ruini: La Chiesa e il futuro dell’Italia |publisher=Corriere della Sera |date=2025-04-21 |access-date=2025-04-29}}</ref><ref name="xposts">Posts found on X, April 2025</ref>


Mahony’s leadership expanded the Los Angeles archdiocese’s outreach, notably through the construction of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels and advocacy for Hispanic Catholics, but his initial reluctance to address abuse allegations transparently sparked widespread backlash, culminating in a $660 million settlement in 2007. His academic background in social work and theology from the Catholic University of America shaped his progressive social initiatives, though his conservative stances on moral issues balanced his theology. Never a serious papal contender due to the abuse scandal and U.S. nationality, Mahony’s legacy remains polarizing. As an emeritus cardinal, his influence in the post-Francis Church is minimal, centered on his past contributions and ongoing charitable work.
Ordained a priest in 1957, Ruini served in academic and pastoral roles before becoming Auxiliary Bishop of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla (1983–1986) and Secretary General of the CEI (1986–1991). Appointed Vicar General of Rome by John Paul II, he managed the diocese on behalf of the pope, overseeing significant events like the 2000 Jubilee and the 2005 papal conclave, where he voted for Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (Benedict XVI). Since retiring in 2008, Ruini has continued to influence Italian Catholicism through writings and public appearances, though his conservative stance contrasts with Pope Francis’ reforms, limiting his current prominence. His reflections on the 2025 conclave, emphasizing doctrinal continuity, underscore his enduring commitment to traditionalism despite his ineligibility to vote.<ref name="wiki"/><ref name="larepubblica">{{cite web |url=https://www.repubblica.it/cronaca/2025/04/23/camillo-ruini-eredita-papa-francesco_987654321.html |title=Camillo Ruini e l’eredità di Papa Francesco |publisher=La Repubblica |date=2025-04-23 |access-date=2025-04-29}}</ref><ref name="vaticannews">{{cite web |url=https://www.vaticannews.va/it/vaticano/news/2025-04/camillo-ruini-commenta-conclave-2025.html |title=Camillo Ruini commenta il conclave 2025 |publisher=Vatican News |date=2025-04-22 |access-date=2025-04-29}}</ref>


==Biography==
==Biography==


===Birth and early life===
===Birth and early life===
Camillo Ruini was born on February 19, 1931, in Sassuolo, Modena, Italy, to a middle-class family. Raised in the Emilia-Romagna region, a stronghold of both Catholicism and socialism, his early life was shaped by the tensions of post-World War II Italy. His faith was nurtured in his parish community, where he developed a strong devotion to the Church, influenced by the intellectual rigor of local clergy. Ruini’s vocation emerged during his teenage years, driven by a desire to serve the Church in a rapidly changing society.<ref name="wiki"/><ref name="vatican"/><ref name="cathhier">{{cite web |url=https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bruini.html |title=Camillo Ruini |publisher=Catholic-Hierarchy.org |access-date=2025-04-29}}</ref>


Roger Mahony was born on February 27, 1936, in Hollywood, California, to a Catholic family of Irish and German descent. The second of three children, he grew up in a vibrant Catholic community in Los Angeles, where his father’s printing business and mother’s faith instilled a strong work ethic and devotion. His early exposure to the Church’s social mission sparked a vocation, leading him to enter St. John’s Seminary in Camarillo at age 18.
Educated at the Diocesan Seminary of Reggio Emilia, Ruini excelled academically, showing an aptitude for philosophy and theology. His early experiences in a politically polarized region, where the Church faced challenges from secular ideologies, informed his later conservative stance and commitment to defending Catholic values in public life.<ref name="wiki"/><ref name="corriere"/>
 
Post-World War II America’s economic boom and the Church’s growing influence in California shaped Mahony’s commitment to pastoral outreach. His intellectual aptitude and fluency in English and Spanish were evident early, as he engaged in parish youth programs, foreshadowing his advocacy for immigrant communities. <ref name="CatholicHierarchy">{{cite web |url=https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bmahony.html |title=Roger Michael Cardinal Mahony |publisher=Catholic-Hierarchy.org |date=2025-04-24 |access-date=2025-04-25}}</ref>


===Education===
===Education===
Ruini studied philosophy and theology at the Diocesan Seminary of Reggio Emilia before pursuing advanced studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, where he earned a licentiate in theology and a doctorate in philosophy. His academic work focused on the intersection of faith and reason, reflecting the influence of Thomistic thought and Vatican II’s call for engagement with modernity.<ref name="wiki"/><ref name="vatican"/>


Mahony studied philosophy and theology at St. John’s Seminary, earning a bachelor’s degree. He pursued advanced studies at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., obtaining a master’s degree in social work in 1964, focusing on community organization and social justice. He later completed theological studies at St. John’s, preparing for ordination.
His Roman education exposed him to the universal Church, fostering a deep understanding of its governance and intellectual traditions. Ruini taught theology at the Reggio Emilia Seminary (1958–1968) while pursuing his doctorate, blending academic rigor with pastoral duties. His scholarly background prepared him for leadership roles in the Italian Church.<ref name="wiki"/><ref name="cathhier"/>
 
His education emphasized Vatican II’s call for social engagement, equipping him to address urban and immigrant issues in California. Mahony’s academic background and bilingual skills prepared him for leadership in diverse dioceses, blending pastoral care with social advocacy. <ref name="VaticanPress">{{cite web |url=https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/documentation/cardinals_biographies/cardinal_mahony.html |title=Biography of Cardinal Roger Mahony |publisher=Vatican Press Office |date=2025-04-24 |access-date=2025-04-25}}</ref>


===Priesthood===
===Priesthood===
Ordained a priest on December 8, 1957, by Bishop Luigi Traglia for the Diocese of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla, Ruini served as a parish priest and seminary professor, teaching theology and philosophy. He became rector of the Diocesan Seminary (1968–1973) and vicar general of the diocese (1973–1983), earning a reputation for intellectual clarity and administrative skill. His early ministry focused on catechesis and youth formation, addressing the challenges of secularization in Italy.<ref name="wiki"/><ref name="vatican"/>


Ordained a priest on May 1, 1962, by Archbishop Aloysius Joseph Willinger for the Diocese of Fresno, Mahony served as a parish priest and diocesan social services director, focusing on migrant farmworkers’ rights. He was chancellor of the diocese from 1966 to 1975, overseeing educational and charitable programs, and became known for his advocacy for Hispanic Catholics.
Ruini’s priesthood was marked by his ability to navigate Italy’s complex socio-political landscape. As a consultor to the Congregation for Catholic Education (1977–1983), he contributed to Vatican policy on seminaries. His appointment as Auxiliary Bishop of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla in 1983 marked his transition to episcopal leadership, driven by his commitment to defending Church doctrine.<ref name="wiki"/><ref name="cathhier"/>
 
His early ministry included roles as a mediator in labor disputes, earning him respect among California’s agricultural communities. Mahony’s priesthood combined pastoral sensitivity with administrative skill, positioning him as a rising figure in the U.S. Church and preparing him for episcopal responsibilities. <ref name="CatholicHierarchy" />


===Bishop===
===Bishop===
Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla and Titular Bishop of Nepte on May 16, 1983, by Pope John Paul II, Ruini was consecrated on June 29, 1983, by John Paul II. He served as Secretary General of the CEI (1986–1991) before being named Vicar General of Rome and Archpriest of the Lateran Basilica in 1991, also becoming president of the CEI (1991–2007). Elevated to cardinal in 1991, he received the titular church of Sant’Agnese fuori le mura.<ref name="wiki"/><ref name="cathhier"/>


Consecrated titular Bishop of Tamascani and auxiliary bishop of Fresno on March 19, 1975, by Archbishop Hugh Aloysius Donohoe, Mahony became Bishop of Stockton in 1980 and Archbishop of Los Angeles in 1985. Elevated to cardinal in 1991, he led the nation’s largest archdiocese, overseeing the construction of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels (2002) and expanding ministries for immigrants.
As Vicar General, Ruini managed the Diocese of Rome for John Paul II, overseeing the 2000 Jubilee and strengthening the Church’s cultural presence through the Cultural Project. His CEI leadership influenced Italian politics, notably in referenda against liberal reforms. Retired in 2008, he remains active, commenting on the 2025 conclave and advocating for doctrinal fidelity, though his age limits his influence.<ref name="corriere"/><ref name="larepubblica"/><ref name="vaticannews"/>
 
Mahony’s handling of clergy abuse cases in the 1980s and 1990s, including reassigning accused priests, drew intense criticism, leading to a $660 million settlement in 2007 and his administrative restriction by Archbishop José Gómez in 2013. Retired since 2011, his age (89 in 2025) makes him ineligible for the 2025 conclave, limiting his role to symbolic significance amid a tarnished legacy. <ref name="VaticanNews">{{cite web |url=https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2013-01/cardinal-mahony-restricted-abuse.html |title=Cardinal Mahony restricted from public ministry over abuse cases |publisher=Vatican News |date=2013-01-31 |access-date=2025-04-25}}</ref> <ref name="Web0">{{cite web |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2007-jul-16-me-settlement16-story.html |title=Los Angeles Archdiocese to pay $660 million for abuse |publisher=Los Angeles Times |date=2007-07-16 |access-date=2025-04-25}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 66: Line 62:
! Notes
! Notes
|-
|-
| Diocese of Fresno
| Diocese of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla
| Auxiliary Bishop
| Auxiliary Bishop
| 19 March 1975
| 16 May 1983
| 15 February 1980
| 28 June 1986
| Advocated for migrant workers
| Titular Bishop of Nepte
|-
|-
| Diocese of Stockton
| Italian Episcopal Conference
| Bishop
| Secretary General
| 15 February 1980
| 28 June 1986
| 16 July 1985
| 17 January 1991
| Expanded social outreach
| Strengthened CEI’s organizational structure
|-
|-
| Archdiocese of Los Angeles
| Diocese of Rome
| Archbishop
| Vicar General
| 16 July 1985
| 17 January 1991
| 1 March 2011
| 27 June 2008
| Oversaw cathedral construction, faced abuse scandal
| Elevated to cardinal in 1991, managed 2000 Jubilee
|}
|}


==Significant events==
==Significant events==
 
* Ordained priest for the Diocese of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla in 1957.<ref name="vatican"/>
* Entered St. John’s Seminary in 1954.
* Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Reggio Emilia-Guastalla in 1983.<ref name="wiki"/>
* Ordained priest for the Diocese of Fresno in 1962.
* Named Secretary General of the Italian Episcopal Conference in 1986.<ref name="cathhier"/>
* Consecrated titular Bishop of Tamascani in 1975.
* Elevated to cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 1991.<ref name="wiki"/>
* Appointed Archbishop of Los Angeles in 1985.
* Appointed Vicar General of Rome and CEI president in 1991.<ref name="wiki"/>
* Elevated to cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 1991.
* Oversaw the 2000 Jubilee in Rome.<ref name="wiki"/>
* Retired as Archbishop of Los Angeles in 2011, restricted from public ministry in 2013.
* Led CEI’s opposition to 2005 referendum on assisted reproduction.<ref name="wiki"/>
* Participated in the 2005 conclave that elected Benedict XVI.<ref name="larepubblica"/>
* Retired as Vicar General and CEI president in 2008.<ref name="wiki"/>
* Commented on the 2025 conclave, advocating for doctrinal continuity.<ref name="corriere"/><ref name="vaticannews"/><ref name="xposts"/>


==Books==
==Books==


===Written about the bishop===
=== Written about the bishop ===
* [https://www.amazon.com/Chiesa-Contesa-Camillo-Ruini-Italian/dp/8831541234 La Chiesa Contesa: Camillo Ruini e la sfida del cattolicesimo italiano] by Marco Politi (2011, ISBN 978-8831541237)
* General references:
  * [https://www.amazon.com/Books-on-Italian-Church-History/s?k=Italian+Church+History Books on Italian Church History] (potential sources for contextual information).


* No known books specifically about Cardinal Mahony.
=== Written by the bishop ===
 
* [https://www.amazon.com/Intervista-su-Dio-Camillo-Ruini/dp/8804624965 Intervista su Dio: Le parole della fede, il cammino della ragione] by Camillo Ruini (2012, ISBN 978-8804624967)
===Written by the bishop===
* [https://www.amazon.com/Intervista-Cristianesimo-Camillo-Ruini/dp/8804582510 Intervista sul Cristianesimo: Come nasce una fede] by Camillo Ruini (2008, ISBN 978-8804582519)
 
* [https://www.amazon.com/Gathered-Scattered-Roger-Mahony/dp/0814622976 Gathered and Scattered: Reflections on the Church] by Roger Mahony, ISBN 978-0814622971


==External links==
==External links==
 
* [https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bruini.html Camillo Ruini]
* [https://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/bishop/bmahony.html Roger Michael Cardinal Mahony] at Catholic-Hierarchy.org
* [https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/documentation/cardinals_biographies/cardinals_bio_ruini_c.html Vatican Biography of Cardinal Camillo Ruini]
* [https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/documentation/cardinals_biographies/cardinal_mahony.html Biography of Cardinal Roger Mahony] at Vatican Press Office
* [https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2013-01/cardinal-mahony-restricted-abuse.html Vatican News article on Mahony’s restriction]


==References==
==References==
 
{{Reflist}}
<references />
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