Father Júlio Lancellotti suspends live masses and networks by decision of Dom Odilo Scherer in the capital of São Paulo By Carolina Costa
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The cardinal archbishop of São Paulo, Dom Odilo Scherer, ordered the immediate suspension of live broadcasts of masses celebrated by Father Júlio Lancellotti. The measure also includes the complete removal of the religious’s social media activities, who has worked at Paróquia São Miguel Arcanjo, in the Mooca neighborhood, for more than four decades. The decision was communicated directly to the priest, who announced the interruption during a celebration on December 14th.
Father Júlio Lancellotti informed the faithful that the guidance came from the cardinal, describing it as a form of recollection and protection. Ele emphasized the need for obedience to ecclesiastical determination. The broadcasts were carried out by channels such as Rede TVT and YouTube platforms, reaching believers in different regions.
The possibility of removal from the parish has also been mentioned in internal circles at Igreja, although it has not yet been made official. Padre Júlio will turn 77 on December 27, and canonical norms allow priests to retire from the age of 75, with exceptions based on the needs of the archdiocese.
- Masses continue to be celebrated in person at the parish.
- There are no confirmed changes to social projects linked to religion.
- The decision sparked discussions among groups of priests and faithful.
The priest’s trajectory in the parish of Mooca
Father Júlio Lancellotti has served as parish priest of São Miguel Arcanjo since the 1980s. The parish serves as a base for several community initiatives.
The religious coordinates the Pastoral of the Povo of the Rua in the archdiocese. Essa role puts him in direct contact with vulnerable populations in the capital. Projetos how food distribution and basic services are maintained regularly.
Recent political attacks on the religious
Father Júlio Lancellotti faces recurring criticism from conservative political sectors. A federal deputy recently delivered a petition with more than a thousand signatures to the Vaticano embassy. The document calls for an investigation into the priest’s conduct.
These actions include accusations of political use of the religious function. The religious man denies irregularities and maintains focus on social assistance. The archdiocese has not publicly commented on the petition.
Canonical norms and retirement age
The rules of Igreja Católica provide that priests can request retirement at age 75. The final decision rests with the diocesan bishop. Muitos priests remain active beyond this age, depending on assessment of local needs.
Father Júlio Lancellotti highlighted examples of colleagues who remain in office until they are 80 or 90 years old. Ele reinforced that continuity depends on the archdiocese. The current measure is described as temporary for collection.
Repercussion among believers and community
The suspension of online broadcasts affected faithful who followed the celebrations remotely. Muitos expressed support for the priest in private messages. Grupos WhatsApp messages of religious people discussed the decision intensely.
In-person celebrations in the parish follow the usual schedule. The chapel at Universidade São Judas Tadeu, at Mooca, also hosts masses. Projetos and the recent library continue to operate normally.
Social action with the homeless population
Father Júlio Lancellotti is recognized for his work with homeless people in São Paulo. Iniciativas include distribution of hygiene kits and food. Parcerias with entities like Cruz Vermelha occur periodically.
The pastoral coordinates actions in different regions of the city. Voluntários participate in daily care. The recently opened library offers access to books and conversation circles.
Priest’s position on ecclesiastical obedience
The religious man stated that Dom Odilo Scherer’s decision was aimed at personal protection. Ele accepted the guidance without public opposition. Obedience is highlighted as a fundamental principle in his response.
Father Júlio denied rumors of an immediate transfer of the parish. Ele has reaffirmed loyalty to the archdiocese in recent communications. The situation remains under evaluation by the cardinal.
Recent projects in the east zone of São Paulo
Biblioteca Wilma Lancellotti was opened to serve the vulnerable population. The space brings together thousands of donated books. Atividades include reading and community conversations.
Other actions involve partnerships for the distribution of essential items. The parish maintains a regular schedule of masses. Fiéis locals continue to attend in-person celebrations.
- Meal distribution occurs on specific days.
- Voluntary medical care is organized periodically.
- Partnerships with unions support labor initiatives.
- Cultural events promote social inclusion.
Dom Odilo Scherer’s decision keeps Father Júlio Lancellotti temporarily away from digital platforms. In-person parish activities were not interrupted. The archdiocese of São Paulo evaluates the next steps without a defined deadline.
