Cardinal Bertone to Leave Office Oct. 15

The Holy Father has accepted, in keeping with Canon 354 of the Code of Canon Law, the resignation of Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, his secretary of state, asking him, however, to remain in office until 15 October, 2013, with all the faculties proper to the office.

At the same time, the Holy Father has named Archbishop Pietro Parolin, Apostolic Nuncio to Venezuela, as the new secretary of state. He shall take possession of his office on 15 October, 2013.

On that occasion, His Holiness shall receive in audience Superiors and Officials of the Secretariat of State, in order publicly to thank Cardinal Bertone for his faithful and generous service to the Holy See, and to introduce them to the new secretary of state.