The Archbishop of Santiago de Compostela holds one of the most esteemed positions within the Catholic Church, overseeing a diocese that is pivotal due to its historical and spiritual significance as the destination of O Camiño de Santiago (in Galician) .

Francisco José Prieto Fernández assumed the role of Arcebispo in this historic city, following his official appointment in 2021. Born on August 18, 1968 in Orense, Spain, Archbishop Fernández has devoted his life to the service of the Church, rising through its ranks to reach this prominent position.

To research information on his predecessors, read our timeline of all previous Archbishops of Santiago de Compostela .

The word “Archbishop” translates to “Arzobispo” in Spanish and “Arcebispo” in Galician. I will use these translated words throughout this article.

Timeline of Siginificant Life Events

Starting with a timeline of his achievements, we then look in detail at various stages of his life, the contributions he has made and the events that led to his appointment as the Arcbishop and current leader of the Archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela.

If you need this timeline information in a table format, jump to the Table of Life Events

Early Life and Education

Francisco José Prieto Fernández was born in Orense, Lugo, in the autonomous community of Galicia, Spain. His early exposure to religious life in this culturally rich and historically significant region of Spain profoundly influenced his future path. He entered the seminary at a young age, showing a deep commitment to his faith.

He pursued his ecclesiastical studies at the Instituto Teológico “Divino Maestro” in Ourense, affiliated with the Faculty of Theology of the Pontifical University of Salamanca, from 1986 to 1992. He was ordained as a priest on June 26, 1993.

To further his theological education, he obtained a licentiate in Patristic Theology from the Faculty of Theology of the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome between 1992 and 1994.

This academic background equipped him with a robust theological framework and practical skills necessary for his future roles in the Church .

Additionally, he earned a doctorate in Biblical Theology from the Faculty of Theology of the Pontifical University of Salamanca in 2008

Priestly Ministry

For his priestly formation, Fernández attended the Major Seminary of Lugo, where he received a thorough grounding in philosophy and theology. He was ordained as a priest on June 26, 1993, marking the beginning of his pastoral ministry.

Following his ordination, Fernández began his priestly ministry in the Diocese of Lugo. He served in various capacities, starting as a parochial vicar at the parish of San Froilán in Lugo. His early roles showcased his dedication and ability to connect with the community, fostering spiritual growth and participation among the parishioners.

In 1996, Fernández took on the role of pastor in several rural parishes, including Becerreá and Fonsagrada, where he was known for revitalizing the local church activities and enhancing the community’s engagement with the church’s mission. His efforts in these areas were recognized by his superiors, leading to his subsequent appointments to more significant administrative roles within the diocese.

From 2005 to 2012, he served as the Vicar for Clergy in the Diocese of Lugo, a role in which he was responsible for overseeing the welfare and assignments of the diocese’s clergy members. His leadership during this period was marked by a focus on pastoral care and clergy formation, ensuring that priests were well-supported in their ministries.

Throughout his early ministry, Fernández also emphasized education and catechesis, reflecting his belief in the importance of faith education in building a strong and vibrant church community. His work during these years laid a solid foundation for his future leadership roles within the Church.

Episcopal Appointment and Service

Francisco José Prieto Fernández’s commitment and service within the Diocese of Lugo led to his elevation to the episcopate. He was appointed as the Auxiliary Bishop of Santiago de Compostela on October 31, 2020, by Pope Francis. His consecration took place on January 9, 2021, at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a ceremony that was attended by numerous clergy and laity, highlighting his respected status within the Church.

As an Auxiliary Bishop, Fernández was tasked with supporting the Arcebispo of Santiago de Compostela in the administration of the archdiocese. His responsibilities included overseeing various pastoral initiatives and responding to the needs of the archdiocese’s extensive and diverse community. During his tenure as an auxiliary, he particularly focused on pastoral care, education, and enhancing the spiritual life of the pilgrims who travel to Santiago de Compostela each year.

His service in this role was characterized by a deep engagement with cultural and spiritual heritage, acknowledging the unique position of Santiago de Compostela as a pilgrimage site. Bishop Fernández played a crucial role in organizing major religious events, including the Holy Year celebrations, which are pivotal to the religious life of the city and attract thousands of pilgrims from around the world.

This period in his episcopal career not only demonstrated his administrative capabilities but also his ability to connect with a global community, reinforcing his qualifications for his subsequent appointment as Arcebispo.

Archbishop of Santiago de Compostela

Fernández was appointed Arzobispo on September 9, 2021, by Pope Francis, marking a significant milestone in his ecclesiastical career. His installation as Arzobispo took place in a solemn ceremony at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela on October 16, 2021. This role placed him at the helm of one of the most historically significant archdioceses in Spain, known globally as the culmination point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

As Archbishop, Fernández has focused on several key areas including pastoral care, evangelization, and the promotion of the Camino de Santiago as a spiritual journey and cultural heritage, including the renowned tomb of St. James. Understanding the importance of the pilgrimage, he has worked to enhance the spiritual experience for pilgrims, improving infrastructure and services, and ensuring that the archdiocese remains a welcoming and supportive environment for all visitors.

Under his leadership, the archdiocese has also launched initiatives aimed at youth engagement, recognizing the need to connect with younger generations to sustain the Church’s future. These programs include youth festivals, faith-based educational programs, and outreach projects designed to engage young people in the life of the Church.

Additionally, He has been instrumental in promoting dialogue and cooperation among different religious and cultural groups within the archdiocese, fostering an inclusive community environment. His efforts to modernize and adapt the Church’s message for contemporary society have been well-received, reflecting his vision for a Church that remains relevant and responsive to the needs of its people.

Influence and Contributions

Fernández has made significant contributions to the spiritual and social life of Santiago de Compostela and the broader Catholic community. His influence extends beyond the administrative boundaries of his archdiocese, impacting both national and international Catholic discourse.

One of his notable contributions is the revitalization of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage experience. Recognizing the spiritual and cultural significance of the pilgrimage, Archbishop Fernández has introduced several initiatives to enhance the pilgrims’ journey. These include the development of new pastoral centers along the route and the introduction of digital resources to guide pilgrims spiritually and practically.

In addition to his focus on the pilgrimage, Arzobispo Fernández has been active in social justice issues. He has championed programs aimed at assisting the underprivileged, including support services for the homeless and immigrants. His advocacy for these groups demonstrates his commitment to the Church’s social teachings on dignity, solidarity, and the common good.

Archbishop Fernández has also contributed to theological education by supporting local seminaries and encouraging the development of lay ministry programs. His efforts to promote theological literacy among laypeople are part of his broader strategy to empower the laity within the Church’s mission.

His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic showcased his responsive and compassionate approach. He implemented measures to ensure that worship could continue safely and provided spiritual and practical support to those affected by the crisis. His guidance during this difficult time reinforced his role as a shepherd to his flock, attentive to their needs and committed to their well-being.

Challenges and Controversies

Like many leaders within the Catholic Church, Arzobispo Francisco José Prieto Fernández has faced his share of challenges and controversies during his tenure. These situations have tested his leadership skills and his ability to navigate complex issues within the Church and society.

One significant challenge has been addressing the legacy of historical grievances, including the Church’s role in past injustices. Archbishop Fernández has approached these issues with a commitment to transparency and reconciliation, initiating dialogues and participating in events aimed at healing and understanding. His efforts to confront these painful subjects head-on have been pivotal in rebuilding trust between the Church and the wider community.

The Archbishop has dealt with the complexities of modernizing church practices while respecting traditional values. This balancing act has sparked debates within the community, particularly around topics such as the inclusion of women in more significant roles within the Church and the adaptation of liturgical practices to contemporary society. His responses to these debates have shown a nuanced understanding of the need for evolution in church practices while maintaining core doctrinal principles.

Another area of controversy has been the management of church finances, especially in light of the economic strains imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Arzobispo Fernández has had to make difficult decisions regarding budget allocations and the maintenance of historical church properties, decisions that have not always been met with universal approval.

Through these challenges, Archbishop Fernández has emphasized the importance of dialogue, empathy, and collective decision-making, striving to lead a community that is both faithful to its traditions and responsive to the needs of its modern adherents.

Public Image and Reception

Arcebispo Francisco José Prieto Fernández’s public image is characterized by his approachable demeanor and his commitment to inclusivity and dialogue. He is widely respected among the clergy and laity for his deep spirituality and practical approach to Church leadership. His efforts to make the Church a welcoming space for all, regardless of their background, have significantly shaped perceptions of his tenure.

The Archbishop’s public statements often emphasize unity, peace, and the importance of community support, which resonates well with both religious and secular audiences. He is particularly praised for his ability to communicate complex theological concepts in a way that is accessible and relevant to everyday life. This ability has made him a popular figure not only within his diocese but also in national religious discussions.

Media coverage of his activities, especially during significant events like the Holy Year of the Camino de Compostela, highlights his role as a bridge-builder between the historical traditions of the Church and contemporary societal needs. These portrayals often note his enthusiasm for engaging with pilgrims and his dedication to enhancing their spiritual experience.

However, like any public figure, Arcebispo Fernández has faced criticism, particularly from those who view his reforms and modern approaches with skepticism. Some traditionalists within the Church community express concerns that his progressive stance might dilute longstanding traditions. Despite these criticisms, the general consensus is that his leadership has been a positive force, particularly in revitalizing the archdiocese’s role in both the local community and the wider Catholic world.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the future prospects for Archbishop Fernández within the Archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela appear promising. His tenure thus far has laid a solid foundation for ongoing initiatives and new projects that aim to further the mission of the Church in the modern world.

Archbishop Fernández is expected to continue his efforts in promoting the Camino de Santiago not only as a pilgrimage route but also as a symbol of global spiritual unity. Plans to enhance the infrastructure and services along the pilgrimage route are likely to proceed, improving the experience for the thousands of pilgrims who walk the Camino each year. This includes expanding volunteer networks, increasing pastoral support, and enhancing the technological resources available to pilgrims.

In the realm of social outreach, Archbishop Fernández is poised to expand initiatives that address key issues such as poverty, immigration, and integration within the community. His leadership is crucial in mobilizing church resources and partnerships with local and national organizations to provide more comprehensive support services.

Archbishop Fernández is likely to focus on youth engagement, recognizing the importance of nurturing the next generation of churchgoers and leaders. By introducing more youth-oriented programs and integrating modern digital communication methods, he aims to make the Church more accessible and relevant to young people.

Finally, his continued advocacy for dialogue and inclusivity within the Church suggests that he will remain a key figure in discussions about the future of Catholicism, both in Spain and internationally. His leadership style and vision for the Church suggest that he will continue to be a progressive and unifying force in the years to come.

Table of Life Events

Here is the timeline of events of Francisco José Prieto Fernández’s life to date represented in a table format

Holy Mass at the Cathedral