Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Bernardito Auza as nuncio to the EU, succeeding Msgr. Noël Treanor, who passed away on August 11, 2024. Auza previously represented the Holy See at the UN and was nuncio to Spain and Andorra.
Newsroom (23/03/2025, Gaudium Press) Pope Francis has appointed Archbishop Bernardito Auza as the new Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union, following the passing of Monsignor Treanor in August 2024.
Archbishop Auza’s Diplomatic Career
Archbishop Bernardito Cleopas Auza, a 65-year-old Filipino diplomat, has had a distinguished career in the Holy See’s diplomatic service. Before his appointment to the European Union, he was the Holy See’s representative in Spain and Andorra. He succeeds Monsignor Noël Treanor, who passed away suddenly in August 2024.
Serving the Holy See at the United Nations
Prior to his role in Spain, Archbishop Auza served as the Permanent Representative of the Holy See to the United Nations Security Council in New York. His diplomatic tenure at the UN, from 2014 to 2019, was marked by his contributions to peace and human rights. Additionally, he was the Nuncio to Haiti from 2008 to 2014.
A Lifelong Commitment to Diplomacy
Archbishop Auza began his service in the Holy See’s diplomatic corps in 1990. His early assignments included Madagascar, the Indian Ocean, Bulgaria, and Albania. His time at the Vatican’s Section for Relations with States solidified his expertise in international diplomacy. He was ordained bishop in 2008 by Cardinal Bertone, the then Secretary of State of the Holy See.
Reactions to the Appointment
The President of Comece, Archbishop Mariano Crociata, warmly welcomed Archbishop Auza’s appointment, emphasizing his legacy of diplomatic and ecclesial service. “His work will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the promotion of the common good within the European Union,” said Archbishop Crociata. As Pope Francis appoints Archbishop Auza as the new Nuncio to the European Union, his extensive diplomatic experience will be crucial in strengthening the Holy See’s relationship with the EU, promoting peace, and advocating for the values of the Catholic Church within the European community.
Compiled by Donna Smolders
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