Vatican Removes Migrant-Sheltering Priest

The Vatican has definitively removed controversial priest Massimo Biancalani from pastoral service at two parishes in Pistoia, Italy. The Dicastery for the Clergy rejected his appeal against a measure initiated by former Bishop Fausto Tardelli, according to ANSA, citing Italian newspaper La Nazione.

The decision brings to a close a dispute spanning more than a decade over the parish of Vicofaro, which has been at the center of Italy’s debate over the reception of migrants since 2015. The parish eventually sheltered 200 migrants, many of whom were living in Italy illegally, with some housed inside the church itself. The situation sparked controversy over poor sanitary conditions, excesses and tensions, as well as protests from local residents. Parishioners also began abandoning church services and activities.

The canonical proceedings did not concern disciplinary violations of priestly conduct but rather pastoral considerations. Biancalani had previously refused a proposed transfer to the Diocesan Missionary Office in the summer of 2024 and, after losing legal representation for Vicofaro, took legal action under canon law.

The priest’s removal was welcomed by Lega leader Matteo Salvini, who serves as Italy’s deputy prime minister and transport minister. “The priest of illegal immigrants leaves Vicofaro. Time is a gentleman”, Salvini said.

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