Vatican Downplays Latin in New Roman Curia Rules
Revised regulations remove Latin as the preferred working language and drop proficiency requirement for staff.
VATICAN CITY — The Vatican has quietly shifted away from Latin as its primary official language, according to newly issued rules for the Roman Curia approved this week by Pope Leo XIV. The updated regulations state that Curial offices “usually write their files in Latin or in another language,” marking a downgrade from the previous requirement that documents be prepared principally in Latin.
According to a report from kath.net, earlier versions of the Regolamento had given the ancient language pride of place, allowing exceptions “according to the needs of the time.” The new text, however, places Latin on equal footing with modern languages.
The change is reflected in hiring requirements, as well. The longstanding expectation that Vatican employees possess “good knowledge of Latin” has been removed. Staff will now be required to demonstrate strong proficiency in Italian and one additional language.
Despite the shift, the Vatican will retain its “Office for the Latin Language” within the Secretariat of State, which continues to support Latin drafting and translation for the Curia.
Previously, UOJ reported that Pat. Bartholomew of Constantinople was preparing to welcome Pope Leo to the Phanar this weekend.
