Pontifical Academy for Life

Today, Friday, April 10, 2026, the Holy Father, Leo XIV, has appointed the Reverend Andrea Roberto Ciucci, until now Coordinator of the Secretariat of the Pontifical Academy for Life, as Chancellor.

This appointment comes at a time of renewed commitment to promoting the protection and dignity of human life, in dialogue with the scientific and academic world.

Commenting on the role entrusted to him, Fr. Ciucci released the following statement:

Today’s Gospel is a true outpouring of life.

It speaks of an abundant catch: there is sustenance, there is life enough for all. It also tells of a celebration whose intense yet discreet fulfilment lies in the recognition of the Lord Jesus. He is alive—risen and present—standing among his friends, whom he meets in the busy and meaningful places of their daily lives.

There could be no more fitting Gospel than the twenty-first chapter of Saint John to accompany the announcement of my appointment as Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy for Life.

I express my heartfelt gratitude to Pope Leo for this appointment and, with him, to Cardinal Parolin, Secretary of State; to Monsignor Pegoraro, President of the Pontifical Academy for Life; and to his predecessor, Monsignor Paglia. Their confidence invites me today to serve with renewed passion and discernment the lives of the men and women of our time and of generations to come, particularly within the world of scientific and academic research.

Days filled with wonder and thanksgiving now lie before me.