The Archbishop of Milan, mons. Mario Delpini, turns 75 this Wednesday, July 29, and, in accordance with canon law, must submit his resignation from the government of the archdiocese to the Pope. However, everything indicates that he will remain at the head of the Ambrosian diocese for several more months, after Leo XIV informed him of his intention not to accept his resignation immediately.
Delpini’s continuity is not based on speculation, but on the archbishop’s own statements. After an audience with the Pontiff held last February, he explained that he had gone to Rome with the intention of presenting the reasons why he considered it appropriate to conclude his ministry in the summer of 2026.
«The Pope has asked me to stay»
According to Delpini himself, Leo XIV expressly asked him to remain at the head of the Archdiocese of Milan for some time longer and not to organize his farewell upon reaching the age limit.
The archbishop then explained that, in view of that request, he had decided to schedule the 2026-2027 pastoral year as usual, while making it clear that he would leave the government of the diocese at the moment the Holy Father deems it appropriate to accept his resignation.
His words already suggested months ago that his stay could be extended, at least, until the beginning of 2027.
The acceptance of the resignation depends exclusively on the Pope
The Code of Canon Law establishes that diocesan bishops must submit their resignation upon turning 75. However, the resignation does not take effect automatically, since it is exclusively up to the Pontiff to accept it and determine the moment when the prelate ceases to exercise his ministry.
Read also. Four vacant dioceses and six bishops over 75: Leo XIV’s pending appointments in Spain
For this reason, it is not uncommon for some bishops to remain for several months —and even more than a year— at the head of their dioceses while the appointment of a successor is being studied.
One of the most relevant appointments of the pontificate
The succession in the Archdiocese of Milan will be one of the most significant episcopal appointments. The Ambrosian see, the largest in Italy and one of the most influential in the Catholic Church, has traditionally been linked to leading figures of the Italian and universal episcopate.
While the search for a successor continues, Delpini will continue to govern the archdiocese at the Pope’s express request, at least until Leo XIV decides to officially accept the resignation submitted upon reaching the age limit.