Jean-Louis Tauran

Key roles and responsibilities

Tauran served as president of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue from 2007 until his death in 2018. In the Roman curial system he also held the offices of Cardinal Protodeacon (2011–2014), the senior cardinal deacon who proclaims a new pope to the world, and Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, a position he held from 20 December 2014 until his passing. The Camerlengo has specific administrative duties during a sede vacante, the period between the end of one papacy and the election of another.

Career and contributions

Over decades of service, Tauran combined diplomatic experience with pastoral work, representing the Holy See in various capacities and helping to shape Vatican engagement with other faith communities. As head of the pontifical council he promoted formal dialogue with representatives of Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and other world religions, and he participated in international conferences, meetings and statements intended to reduce tensions and increase mutual understanding.

Notable moments

As Cardinal Protodeacon in March 2013, Tauran delivered the traditional announcement from St. Peter's Basilica that introduced Pope Francis to the world — the Latin formula often referred to by its opening words, Habemus Papam. His visibility in such ceremonies underscored the ceremonial and communicative functions senior cardinals can play in the life of the Church.

Death and legacy

Jean-Louis Tauran died on 5 July 2018 at age 75 from complications of Parkinson's disease. Reports of his illness and passing appeared in international notices and obituaries; accounts noted his decade-long leadership of interreligious engagement at the Vatican and his care in carrying out curial responsibilities up to his final years. Contemporary summaries of his life comment on his role in promoting dialogue and on the ceremonial functions he performed for the Church. See contemporary reports of his illness and death: media report on cause and report mentioning place of death.

Selected timeline

• 5 April 1943 – Born in France.
• 2003 – Created cardinal.
• 2007 – Appointed president of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue.
• 2011–2014 – Served as Cardinal Protodeacon; announced the election of Pope Francis in 2013.
• 20 December 2014 – Became Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.
• 5 July 2018 – Died from complications related to Parkinson's disease.