Francesco Camaldo

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Francesco Camaldo (born 24 October 1952) is an Italian Catholic priest who works at the Vatican. He was born in Lagonegro and studied at the Roman Seminary and three Pontifical universities: philosophy and theology at the Pontifical Lateran University, spiritual theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University, and sacred liturgy at the Pontifical Liturgical Institute of San Anselmo, where he earned a doctorate. He was ordained a priest on 26 June 1976 by Cardinal Ugo Poletti.

Camaldo first served as vicar of the parish of St. Mary of Consolation, Casalbertone in Rome (1976–1990). He later held Vatican roles, including Secretary at the Vatican and Official of the Vicariate of Rome, and he worked as an assistant pastor at the Vatican. His motto is Mater Mea Fiducia Mea.

In 1984 he was named Prelate of Honor of His Holiness and Master of Ceremonies, becoming Dean of the Masters of Papal Ceremonies. He participated in many major papal ceremonies, including John Paul II’s funeral and the 2005 conclave that elected Benedict XVI (including the Habemus Papam moment). He was succeeded as Master of Papal Ceremonies by Enrico Vigano.