Cardinal Angelo Amato, key Figure in Seville’s Religious History, Passes Away
The Catholic Church mourns the passing of Cardinal Angelo Amato, who died at the age of 86. His death marks the loss of a significant figure, particularly remembered for his role in a pivotal moment in Seville’s religious history.
Cardinal Amato presided over the 2010 beatification ceremony of Mother María de la Purísima at Seville’s Cartuja stadium, a momentous event attended by an estimated 45,000 people. This ceremony held special significance, as it included the presence of Ana María Rodríguez Casado.
“The presence of Ana María Rodríguez Casado symbolized the tangible recognition of the miracle attributed to Mother Mary of the Immaculate Conception,” a statement highlighting the profound impact of the event. Ana María’s first communion during the ceremony added a poignant touch to the already emotional occasion.
Ana María’s story, “a testimony of faith and hope,” became inextricably linked to the beatification process. Her remarkable recovery continues to be cited as a miracle, strengthening devotion to the Sisters of the cross and their founder.
The 2010 beatification was a grand affair.In attendance were numerous cardinals, including Amigo Vallejo, Rouco Varela, and García Gasco; the then-nuncio in Spain, Renzo Fratini; thirty prelates; six hundred priests; and prominent civic leaders such as Javier Arenas, president of the PP-A, and Rosa Mar Prieto, representing Seville’s mayor.
Pope Francis’ telegram of condolence described Cardinal Amato as a Salesian who served the Holy see with “priestly spirit” and “theological preparation,” particularly within the dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith and in the causes of Saints. He served as secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the faith from 2002, later becoming Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in 2008, a position he held until 2010. He also participated in the 2013 papal conclave.
Cardinal Amato’s connection to Seville extended beyond the 2010 beatification. He presided over the Eucharist celebrating the 400th anniversary of a prominent brotherhood in 1995 and officiated at a significant Virgin Mary function in 2012.
The passing of Cardinal Angelo Amato leaves a void in the Catholic Church, but his legacy, particularly his role in the significant religious events of Seville, will be long remembered.
Cardinal angelo amato Remembered: A Legacy Marked by Faith and Seville
The world mourns the loss of Cardinal Angelo Amato, a key figure in the Catholic Church known for his dedication to the causes of saints. His legacy is deeply intertwined with Seville, Spain, where he presided over the significant beatification of mother María de la Purísima in 2010. In this interview, Senior Editor, emily Carter, speaks with Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a prominent religious historian and expert on the Catholic Church in Spain, to delve deeper into the life and work of Cardinal Amato.
Emily carter: Dr. Rodriguez, thank you for joining us today to discuss the life and legacy of Cardinal Angelo Amato. His passing has been deeply felt by many,especially within the Catholic community in Spain. Could you share some insights into his significant contributions to the Faith?
Dr. Maria Rodriguez: Certainly, Emily. Cardinal Amato was a truly remarkable figure. His dedication to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and his later appointment as Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints marked him as a scholar and a devoted servant of the Church. He was instrumental in shepherding the process of beatification for numerous individuals, including Mother María de la Purísima, whose story captivated Seville.
