Mario Delpini he will remain at the helm of the Ambrosian Church for some time to come. He himself announced it on Tuesday morning, at the end of the penitential celebration for the clergy in a Milan Cathedral packed with over 800 priests, explaining that he had presented his reflections to the Pope in view of his 75th birthday – on 29 July – but that he had received clear guidance: his resignation, for now, will not be accepted.
As foreseen by canon 401 of the Code of Canon Law, every diocesan bishop upon reaching his 75th year is invited to place his mandate in the hands of the Pontiff, who then decides whether to accept or defer the resignation. Monsignor Delpini had asked for an audience with Pope Leo
“I must therefore foresee that I will continue to exercise my ministry as archbishop of Milan for some time,” he said. And with his usual style, both sober and ironic: «Although I am rather fanatical about deadlines, I gladly accept this still unofficial indication».
An “ordinary” year of ministry
Delpini has already decided to plan the 2026/27 pastoral year “as an ordinary year of ministry in Milan”, ready however to leave the post when decided by the Pope and his collaborators. No forcing, therefore, but a serene and obedient availability.
Words that did not sound like a simple formal fulfillment, but as a true declaration of affection towards the Ambrosian Church: «I willingly stay, because I feel honored and grateful for what I am experiencing in this Diocese and among you, priests and deacons». A bond that the Archbishop described as a reason for mutual edification, citing in particular the sick brothers who experience suffering “with such fortitude”.
A “wounded” presbytery
The announcement about his stay came during a penitential celebration marked by a frank and paternal tone. Delpini did not hide the difficulties facing the Ambrosian presbytery: «Our presbytery is hurt and perhaps even angry» for the abandonment of the ministry by some priests, sometimes with outcry, sometimes in silence. “To tell the truth, I’m a little hurt too,” he confided. The reasons given by those who leave – the burden perceived as unbearable, the accusation of indicating ideals without guaranteeing practicable conditions – directly affect the responsibility of the diocesan government. Words that show a non-defensive driving style, but one willing to question itself.
However, the invitation to hope and co-responsibility was not lacking. The Archbishop recalled the need for a priestly style marked by fraternity, synodality, mission and the joy of the Gospel, recognizing the “exemplary” dedication of many priests who generously serve the communities.
Peace and words that build
The celebration, entitled “Live in peace with all. Men of peace because they are forgiven”, takes place at the beginning of Ambrosian Lent. In his final speech Delpini invited us to be vigilant about language: “Let’s ask ourselves if our way of speaking, at least intentionally, wants to make those who listen to us better.” A reminder in tune with the Pope’s Lenten Message, which urges us to refrain from words that hurt to leave room for words of hope and peace. Finally, the concrete appeal for solidarity between priests, through the Opera Aiuto Fraterno Foundation, a sign of a Church that takes care of its elderly and sick priests, and some regulatory indications on the “priest’s house” and the “priest’s removal”.
The news of Delpini’s stay thus offers the diocese a further period of continuity. Not an indefinite postponement, but a phase that promises to be both ordinary and precious: a stretch of shared journey, lived in the awareness that ministry is service and that every final decision lies with the Successor of Peter. In this availability, more than in any other word, we grasp the ecclesial meaning of the announcement: to stay, as long as asked, for the love of the Church.
