Pope Leo XIV appoints Cardinal Baldassare Reina as grand chancellor of the Pontifical John Paul II Institute in Rome signaling a return to traditional leadership

The leadership at the Pontifical Theological Institute John Paul II for Marriage and the Family is seeing a notable change as Pope Leo XIV appoints a new grand chancellor.

This shift marks a return to an earlier tradition of linking the institute’s leadership to the vicar general of Rome.

Baldassare Reina Steps Into a Key Role

Cardinal Baldassare Reina, who was elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis in December 2024, has now been named grand chancellor of the John Paul II Institute.

At just 54 years old, Reina brings fresh energy to the role.

Since 2024, he has served as the vicar general of the Diocese of Rome, which traditionally also makes him grand chancellor of the Pontifical Lateran University—the academic home of the institute.

A Return to Tradition with Pope Leo’s Appointment

This appointment by Pope Leo XIV reverses the previous practice under Pope Francis, who had named Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia to the chancellor role back in 2016.

Reina’s new role aligns with the former custom of connecting the institute’s leadership directly with the vicar general of Rome.

The Institute’s Recent History and Controversies

The John Paul II Institute has undergone significant changes in recent years.

Back in 2017, Pope Francis made a bold move by re-founding the institute.

Originally founded by Pope John Paul II in 1982 with a focus on moral theology, the re-established institute broadened its mission to include social sciences.

These changes, especially the new statutes introduced in 2019, sparked controversy.

Critics pointed to the non-renewal of contracts for some longtime faculty and questioned certain hiring decisions.

Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia’s Transition

Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, who has also been the president of the Pontifical Academy for Life, is stepping down from his role as grand chancellor of the institute following his 80th birthday in April, as per Vatican rules.

Speaking to CNA in May, Paglia acknowledged that his replacement at the institute was expected.

He also suggested that given his age, it might not be long before he steps down from leading the Pontifical Academy for Life as well.

However, he chose not to comment on the controversies surrounding the institute during his tenure.