Vatican confirms removal of priest Massimo Biancalani from Italian parishes

The Vatican's Dicastery for the Clergy has rejected an appeal by priest Massimo Biancalani, confirming his removal from pastoral leadership at the parishes of Santa Maria Maggiore in Vicofaro and San Niccolò in Ramini in the Pistoia region of Italy.

The decision concludes a decade-long canonical process initiated by former Bishop Fausto Tardelli. The removal stems from Biancalani's controversial practice of hosting large numbers of migrants—at times up to 200 people—within parish facilities. While Biancalani viewed his work as a “field church” providing essential refuge, the Diocese cited concerns regarding the loss of community life, lack of authorization for dormitory-style housing, and local tensions.

The removal is strictly pastoral and does not constitute a suspension from the priesthood; Biancalani remains authorized to celebrate sacraments. However, he no longer holds legal representation or administrative responsibility for the two communities. The decision has drawn significant political reactions in Italy, with some leaders criticizing his management of the sites and others noting the complexity of migrant reception.