The Vatican was the scene of an unprecedented celebration: the Church's oldest cardinal, Angelo Acerbi, reached the impressive age of 100 years. At his usual residence in Santa Marta, Acerbi was visited by the Spanish doctor Manuel de la Peña, an expert in longevity.
Angelo Acerbi, born on September 23, 1925, thus becomes the fourth cardinal in history to reach a century of life. His ecclesiastical career is notable, having served as prelate of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta from 2001 to 2015. In this regard, Dr. De la Peña, who leads research on longevity, highlighted the cardinal's enviable health: good heart rate, controlled blood pressure, and remarkable mobility.
During the emotional meeting, Acerbi blessed 60 rosaries for De la Peña, who plans to distribute them among the supercentenarians he is meeting in his research. Acerbi listened attentively to the anecdotes shared by De la Peña about illustrious long-lived individuals, such as the Spanish nun Sister Rosario Soto and the British Ethel Caterham, currently the oldest living person on the planet.
Angelo Acerbi is a respected figure within the Roman Curia, having served as a trusted aide to four Popes: Paul VI, John Paul II, Francis, and Leo XIV. In 1974, he was named Apostolic Nuncio to New Zealand, and later, he served in countries such as Colombia, Hungary and Moldova. His appointment as cardinal by Pope Francis in 2024 recognized a life of dedication and significant contributions to the Church.
Dr. De la Peña, an internationally recognized ambassador of health and life, took the opportunity to present his bestseller to the Cardinal, “Guide to Healthy Living for 120 Years.” Before bidding farewell, Acerbi showed himself generous by sending an apostolic blessing to the doctor, wishing him the best for his son's marriage in Rome.
Thus, the bond between the science of longevity and the wisdom of a life devoted to faith intertwined in this memorable celebration, reminding us of the enduring impact of time when one lives with purpose and dedication.
