News from afar

This morning, the Vatican Information Service published a number of appointments of Bishops and Nuncios. Among them, is the name of Renato Boccardo, who once was in charge of Papal Voyages, in the time of His Holiness, John Paul II.

After the completion of his tenure in the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, during which he ran the travels office, he was appointed as Secretary of the Governatorate, the office responsible for the nuts and bolts of the Vatican City State. As such, it was his responsibility to oversee everything from the workers who keep the stonework up to par, to making sure that the lightbulbs didn't burn out (or at least that burnt out bulbs were replaced).

Throughout his years serving in the Vatican, and even before, he has always been known for his easy manner, his warm welcome and his readiness to share infomation with friends and strangers alike. From the steps of the Vatican City State to the farthest reaches of the world, he has proven himself to be dedicated, hardworking and joyous in the fulfillment of the work entrusted to his care.

As of this morning, he is the Archbishop of Spoleto-Norcia. The city of Spoleto is renound for its summer festival, and the Archdiocese dates back to the first century A.D.