Cardinal Paolo Romeo is a Sicilian-born prelate who served as Archbishop of Palermo and as apostolic nuncio in numerous countries before retiring in 2015.

Born on February 20, 1938, in Acireale, Sicily, Romeo was ordained priest on March 18, 1961. His education includes a license in theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University and a doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical Lateran University.

Romeo’s diplomatic career in the Church began in 1967 when he entered the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy. He went on to serve as a pontifical representative in various countries, including the Philippines, Belgium, Rwanda, Burundi, Venezuela, and Luxembourg. In 1976, he was called to the Secretariat of State to work in the Council for Public Affairs of the Church.

On December 17, 1983, Romeo was appointed titular Archbishop of Vulturia and apostolic nuncio to Haiti, receiving his episcopal consecration on January 6, 1984. His diplomatic assignments continued as he served as nuncio to Colombia (1990-1999), Canada (1999-2001), and Italy and San Marino (2001-2006).

On December 19, 2006, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Romeo as Archbishop of Palermo, where he also served as president of the Sicilian Bishops Conference. From April 8, 2013, to March 31, 2015, he held the additional role of Apostolic Administrator of the eparchy of Piana degli Albanesi, Sicily.

Romeo’s service to the Church was further recognized when Pope Benedict XVI created and proclaimed him Cardinal in the consistory of November 20, 2010, with the Title of Santa Maria Odigitria dei Siciliani. He participated in the conclave of March 2013, which elected Pope Francis.

On October 27, 2015, Romeo became Archbishop emeritus of Palermo when Pope Francis accepted his resignation and appointed Monsignor Corrado Lorefice as his successor. Cardinal Romeo’s right to vote in conclaves ended on February 20, 2018, upon reaching the age of 80.

Throughout his career, Cardinal Romeo has been known for his diplomatic skills, pastoral leadership, and dedication to the Church. His extensive experience in various roles within the Church hierarchy has made him a respected figure in Catholic circles both in Italy and internationally.