Cardinal Fortunato Frezza is a distinguished Italian biblical scholar and a prolific author who worked as an official in the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops. He also served for a time as chaplain to the A.S. Roma soccer team.

Born in Rome on February 6, 1942, Frezza completed his studies at the seminaries of Bagnoregio and Viterbo. He was ordained as a priest in 1966 and then furthered his education, obtaining a licentiate in theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 1967 and a degree in Sacred Scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome in 1977.

Throughout his priestly ministry, Cardinal Frezza held various positions and responsibilities. From 1971 to 1984, he served as a parish priest in Spicciano while simultaneously lecturing on Sacred Scripture at several theological institutes. His academic contributions extended to prestigious institutions such as the Pontifical Gregorian University and seminaries in Viterbo, Albano, and Civita Castellana.

In 1983, Cardinal Frezza’s career took a significant turn when he was appointed to the general secretariat of the Synod of Bishops. He served as under-secretary from 1997 to 2014, demonstrating his administrative capabilities within the Church hierarchy.

Cardinal Frezza’s dedication and service to the Church were recognized through various honors and appointments: in 1999, he was named Prelate of Honor of His Holiness; in 2013, he became a canon of the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican; and in 2022, he was appointed Camerlengo of the Chapter of Saint Peter in the Vatican.

Additionally, he provided spiritual assistance to Vatican staff, monasteries, and even served as chaplain to the A.S. Roma football team.

On July 23, 2022, Cardinal Frezza received his Episcopal Consecration in the Vatican Basilica, becoming the Titular Archbishop of Treba. His elevation to the cardinalate came shortly after, when Pope Francis created and proclaimed him Cardinal in the consistory of August 27, 2022, assigning him the Deaconry of S. Maria in Via Lata.

Throughout his career, Cardinal Frezza has been a prolific writer, with 123 publications to his name, primarily in the field of biblical studies. His journey from a young priest to cardinal reflects a life dedicated to spiritual leadership, academic pursuits, and service to the faithful.