The current head of the CDF, which stands for the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, is Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández.
Understanding the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF)
The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) is the oldest and one of the most significant among the dicasteries of the Roman Curia. Its fundamental mission is to safeguard and promote the doctrine on faith and morals throughout the Catholic Church worldwide. This involves addressing theological questions, examining doctrinal matters, and handling cases related to serious offenses against Catholic faith and morals.
Current Prefect: Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández
Since July 2023, Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández has held the position of Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. Appointed by Pope Francis, he is the seventh individual to serve as the head of this influential Vatican office since 1965. In this role, Cardinal Fernández is responsible for leading the Dicastery in its various functions, ensuring the doctrinal integrity and theological coherence within the Catholic Church.
Recent Prefects of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith
The leadership of the Dicastery has been entrusted to several prominent figures over recent decades, each contributing to its ongoing mission. The Prefect serves as a crucial figure in the Roman Curia, overseeing the foundational doctrinal aspects of the Church.
| No. | Name | End of Term |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | William Levada (1936–2019) | 2 July 2012 |
| 5 | Gerhard Ludwig Müller (b. 1947) | 2 July 2017 |
| 6 | Luis Ladaria Ferrer, SJ (b. 1944) | 1 July 2023 |
| 7 | Víctor Manuel Fernández (b. 1962) | Incumbent |
For more detailed information about the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, its history, and functions, you can refer to its official Wikipedia page.
