The new Archbishop of Paris, Michel Aupetit, is a prominent figure in the Catholic Church. Aupetit was appointed as the Archbishop of Paris on January 6, 2018, succeeding Cardinal André Vingt-Trois.
Early Life and Education
Aupetit was born on March 23, 1951, in Versailles, France. He initially pursued a career in medicine and became a doctor specializing in medical genetics. However, he later felt a calling to the priesthood and decided to follow his spiritual vocation.
After completing his medical studies, Aupetit entered the seminary and was ordained as a priest for the Diocese of Paris in 1995. His background in medicine provided him with a unique perspective on human life and ethics.
Pastoral Work
Throughout his career as a priest, Aupetit has been actively involved in pastoral work and education. He served as the Episcopal Vicar for Healthcare for the Diocese of Paris from 2006 to 2013. In this role, he advocated for ethical healthcare practices and supported healthcare professionals in their mission.
Additionally, Aupetit has been instrumental in promoting natural family planning methods as an alternative to artificial contraception. He firmly believes in upholding the dignity of human life from conception until natural death.
Bishophood
In February 2013, Aupetit was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as the Bishop of Nanterre, a suburb of Paris. As a bishop, he continued his efforts to promote Catholic teachings on bioethics and family issues.
Aupetit has also been involved in interfaith dialogue and collaboration. He actively engages with leaders from different religious communities to foster understanding and promote peace.
Archbishop of Paris
Following Cardinal Vingt-Trois’ retirement, Aupetit was appointed as the new Archbishop of Paris by Pope Francis. As the spiritual leader of one of the most prestigious dioceses in France, Aupetit faces numerous challenges and responsibilities.
Among his key priorities is revitalizing the faith in a secularized society. He aims to strengthen the Church’s presence in Paris and encourage Catholics to live out their faith in their daily lives.
Vision for the Archdiocese
Aupetit envisions an archdiocese that is engaged with the modern world while remaining faithful to Catholic teachings. He seeks to promote a culture of encounter and dialogue, inviting people from all walks of life to experience God’s love and mercy.
- Evangelization: Aupetit believes that evangelization is essential for spreading the Gospel message. He encourages Catholics to actively share their faith with others and be witnesses of Christ’s love.
- Social Justice: Aupetit emphasizes the importance of social justice and caring for those who are marginalized or suffering.
He advocates for solidarity and compassion towards the poor, migrants, and other vulnerable groups.
- Youth Ministry: Recognizing that young people are the future of the Church, Aupetit places great importance on youth ministry. He strives to provide young Catholics with opportunities for spiritual growth, guidance, and support.
The appointment of Michel Aupetit as Archbishop of Paris brings hope for a renewed vitality within the Catholic Church in France. With his background in medicine, pastoral experience, and commitment to Catholic teachings, Aupetit is poised to guide the faithful through the challenges of the modern world.