The Diocese of Rome is divided into four sectors (north, south, east, and west). Each sector is governed by an auxiliary bishop and organized into prefectures. The Parish Basilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles is located in the western sector and is part of the First Prefecture, which consists of seven parishes along with several churches and rectories.
On November 6, 2024, His Eminence Cardinal Baldassare REINA, Vicar General of Pope Francis for the Diocese of Rome, appointed Friar Francesco CELESTINO, Guardian and Pastor of the Friary and Basilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles, as Prefect of the 1st Prefecture.
The Conventual Franciscan community of the Friary of the Twelve Holy Apostles in Rome, received the news with amazement and joy, recognizing the esteem that Cardinal REINA has for his confrere. The service of Prefect is equivalent to that of a Dean in the Diocese. His role is to lead the prefecture and maintain contact with the Vicariate of Rome. Friar Francesco’s role as Prefect carries substantial responsibilities due to the significance of the prefecture within the diocesan framework of communion and shared responsibility.
His tasks include promoting unity within the prefecture in alignment with the Diocesan Pastoral Program and carefully fostering cooperation and communion among all the priests of the prefecture, as well as between individuals and the auxiliary bishop of the sector, as explained by Cardinal REINA in his letter of appointment. We wish Friar Francesco abundant grace in providing fruitful service for the good of God’s people.
Friar Mimmo CASTIGLIONE
