Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., is currently in Rome participating in the Annual Formation Course for New Bishops from Around the World (Aug. 2-10, 2026), organized by the Dicastery for Bishops (Dicasterium pro Episcopis).
This year’s formation course has as its theme: “In Christ, Guardians of the ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ in Times of Transformation.”
The gathering brings together newly appointed bishops from across the world for a time of formation, fraternity, prayer, and reflection on the mission of the episcopate in today’s rapidly changing world.
During his time in Rome, Bishop Emilio will also have the opportunity to meet with Pope Leo XIV, a special moment of communion with the Holy Father.
While in Rome, Bishop Emilio is staying at the Capuchins’ house there. As he had mentioned during his tour of parishes in the diocese in July and August, Bishop Emilio took time to pray before the tombs of the apostles Ss. Peter and Paul, as well as those of several popes, and bringing to the prayers of the faithful of the Diocese of Venice.
The first stop on Sept. 2, was the tomb of St. Peter inside the Vatican. There, Bishop Emilio said he was, “Praying for the intentions of Bishop Emeritus Frank J. Dewane, the priests, deacons, religious and the faithful, especially the prayers of the parishes and schools of the Diocese of Venice and those who work at the Catholic Center in Venice.”
While there, the bishop noticed that the famous statue of St. Peter has been visited by many faithful pilgrims through the years as the feet have been rubbed down considerably. This is the bishop’s first visit to Rome since 2005.
He then visited the tomb of St. Paul the Apostle. Other stops included the tombs of St. John Paul II, St. John XXIII, St. Paul VI, St. Pius X, and Pope Benedict XVI.
Accompanying Bishop Emilio for his visit to the Vatican was Father Diego Escudero, O.F.M. Cap., from Capuchin Province of St. Augustine, Pittsburgh, who is currently working in the Capuchin General Curia in Rome
Also on Sept. 2, Bishop Emilio was present at the weekly catechesis presented by Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square.
Please join the faithful of the Diocese of Venice in praying for Bishop Emilio and all the new bishops gathered in Rome, that the Lord may strengthen them in their ministry and guide them as shepherds of His people.
