Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has appointed Josef Grunwidl as the new Metropolitan Archbishop of Vienna, bringing to conclusion a nine-month period of apostolic administration following the retirement of Cardinal Christoph Schönborn. The announcement was made on Friday by the Holy See Press Office, marking an important transition in one of Europeâs most historically significant archdioceses.
The 62-year-old Archbishop-designate has been serving as Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese since January 2025, when Cardinal Schönborn stepped down upon reaching the canonical retirement age of 80. With this appointment, GrĂŒnwidl becomes the twelfth Archbishop of Vienna, taking pastoral leadership over Austriaâs largest Catholic community, home to nearly one million faithful.
In his first statement following the announcement, Archbishop-designate GrĂŒnwidl expressed humility and faith in accepting the new responsibility. âGod does not need me to be perfect, but available,â he said, acknowledging that his decision came âafter some hesitation,â but matured through deep reflection and prayer. âTrusting in those who support me in prayer, and in Godâs help, who will uphold, guide, and strengthen me, I gladly accept this task. I look forward to meeting many people those who already belong to the Church and those who are still searching whom I might accompany on their journey.â
Born in Hollabrunn, Lower Austria, within the Archdiocese of Vienna, Josef GrĂŒnwidl pursued studies in theology and organ in Vienna before being ordained a priest in 1988 by the late Cardinal Franz König at St. Stephenâs Cathedral.
Over nearly four decades of priestly service, he has held numerous key roles in the Archdiocese, including Secretary to Cardinal Schönborn, Episcopal Vicar, and Director of Pastoral Renewal Initiatives. Known for his calm demeanor, pastoral sensitivity, and emphasis on prayer and unity, GrĂŒnwidl has earned deep respect among clergy and laity alike.
When Cardinal Schönborn retired earlier this year, GrĂŒnwidl was entrusted by the Vatican with steering the Archdiocese through its transition as Apostolic Administrator, a role he carried out quietly yet effectively, strengthening diocesan communication and fostering a renewed focus on youth and parish engagement.
Viennaâs Archdiocese holds a special place in the Catholic world. It is not only Austriaâs largest ecclesiastical jurisdiction but also one of its most influential cultural and theological centers. Historically, the Archbishop of Vienna has often been elevated to the College of Cardinals, though this tradition was not consistently followed under Pope Francisâ pontificate.
Archbishop-designate GrĂŒnwidlâs pastoral vision aligns closely with the Churchâs renewed focus on synodality, spiritual accompaniment, and dialogue with modern society. Those close to him describe him as a priest âwith a listening heart,â deeply committed to bridging the gap between faith and contemporary culture.
Responding to the news from Rome, Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, who shepherded the Archdiocese of Vienna for nearly three decades, expressed heartfelt joy over his successorâs appointment.
âFor me, today is a deeply moving and joyful day. What could be more beautiful than knowing that our Archdiocese is in good hands!â the Cardinal said. âI am especially moved by the palpable joy throughout the diocese over his appointment. In the Eastern Churches, the faithful cry out at an ordination, âAxios! He is worthy.â It seems to me that people in our Church have been saying that about Josef GrĂŒnwidl for many weeks and months. How wonderful that Pope Leo has now confirmed it.â
As Vienna prepares for the official installation of its new Archbishop, Church leaders across Austria have welcomed the appointment as a sign of continuity and renewal. Observers note that GrĂŒnwidlâs pastoral approach reflects a steady balance of tradition and openness a style reminiscent of his mentor, Cardinal Schönborn.
The new Archbishopâs immediate priorities are expected to include revitalizing parish life, strengthening Catholic education, and deepening interreligious dialogue in a city known for its diverse and secular landscape.
For Austriaâs Catholic community, Josef GrĂŒnwidlâs appointment marks not just a change of leadership, but a renewed call to faithfulness and service. His own words âGod does not need me perfect, but availableâ may well define the next chapter of the Archdiocese of Viennaâs journey under his care.