Pope Leo XIV has officially ratified the election of Fr Francesco Ielpo, OFM, as the new Custos of the Holy Land and Guardian of Mount Zion a role deeply rooted in the Franciscan tradition and central to safeguarding the Christian presence in the sacred lands of Jesus’ life.
The election was carried out by the Minister General of the Order of Friars Minor, Friar Massimo Fusarelli, along with his council, and the confirmation was conveyed through an official communication addressed to the friars serving in the Custody of the Holy Land.
Born in Lauria, Italy, on May 18, 1970, Fr Ielpo entered the Franciscan Order with his solemn vows in 1998 and was ordained a priest in 2000. His decades of ministry include extensive work in education, formation, and leadership within the Franciscan community. He served as Rector of the Franciscanum Luzzago Institute in Brescia, was a member of the FIDAE national council, and held the position of Provincial Definitor in the Lombard Province.
In 2013, Fr Ielpo became the Commissioner of the Holy Land for Lombardy, later expanding his mission to include all of Northern Italy. His recent leadership roles include serving as President of the Holy Land Foundation and as a General Delegate for provincial restructuring in southern Italy.
The Custody of the Holy Land, in an official press release, welcomed Fr Ielpo with joy, offering their prayers and support as he takes up this significant mission in what they called the “Pearl of the Missions.” They also expressed deep gratitude to his predecessor, Br Francesco Patton, for nine years of devoted service.
Speaking to Vatican media, Fr Ielpo humbly reflected on the immense responsibility before him. “I immediately felt the vast gap between who I am and what is being asked of me especially in this moment of history,” he admitted. Recalling the wisdom of his spiritual director, he added, “This very gap is a gift because it creates space for the Holy Spirit to act.”
As he steps into this new chapter, Fr Ielpo reaffirmed his trust in God, the Church, his Order, and his fellow friars: “As I did on the day of my religious profession, I entrust myself entirely.”