Vatican Museums’ 42nd Patrons Meeting in Ottawa discusses preservation, donor engagement, and 2025 transitions, emphasizing cultural heritage and collaboration.
Newsroom (29/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) The 42nd International Meeting of Chapter Leaders of the Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums convened in Ottawa from September 19 to 21, 2025, bringing together representatives from Vatican City and global Patron Chapters to discuss preservation, donor engagement, and the cultural mission of the Vatican Museums. The delegation from Vatican City included Sr. Raffaella Petrini, President of the Governorate; Giuseppe Puglisi-Albrandi, Secretary General; Mons. Terence Hogan, Coordinator of the Patrons of the Arts; Barbara Jatta, Director of Museums and Cultural Heritage; Alberto Albanesi, Deputy Director and Chief Financial Officer; and Lucia Cosmano, Legal Counsel and Chief of Staff.
A Year of Transition and Collaboration
Sr. Raffaella Petrini opened the meeting on September 20 with a keynote address reflecting on the historic events of 2025, including the Jubilee Year, the passing of Pope Francis, the election of Pope Leo XIV, and new appointments within the Vatican City State’s leadership. She highlighted the seamless collaboration across Vatican departments, emphasizing the Governorate’s preparedness and coordination in managing complex logistics during this transitional period. “This year has been one of profound change, yet our unity and responsiveness have ensured stability and progress,” Sr. Raffaella noted, expressing gratitude for the dedication of Vatican personnel.
The Vital Role of Patron Support
Mons. Terence Hogan underscored the critical importance of donor contributions to the Vatican Museums’ mission of preserving its vast artistic collections and promoting its cultural and spiritual heritage. He introduced the concept of “generational segmentation” to enhance donor engagement, advocating for tailored communication strategies—print materials for Baby Boomers (60–80 years) and Generation X (45–60 years), and digital platforms for Millennials (29–44 years). Hogan emphasized that understanding donors’ personal interests and priorities is key to inspiring contributions. He also outlined the benefits of Patron membership, which deepen donors’ connection to the Vatican’s restoration projects.
Celebrating Restorations and New Initiatives
Barbara Jatta, Director of the Vatican Museums, expressed profound gratitude to the Patron Chapter Leaders for their unwavering support. She highlighted recent restoration projects, including Raphael’s Room of Constantine, the Apollo Belvedere statue, Bellini’s Lament over the Dead Christ, and renovations to the Bramante Courtyard. Jatta also celebrated the opening of the Micro Mosaics collection in the Sala Paolina II at the Vatican Library and various exhibitions and concerts hosted at the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo. “Your generosity ensures that these treasures continue to inspire pilgrims and visitors worldwide,” she said.
Addressing Financial and Logistical Challenges
Alberto Albanesi, Deputy Director and Chief Financial Officer, provided an overview of the Museums’ financial and logistical challenges, particularly in the context of a post-pandemic surge in tourism. He detailed reforms to improve gallery accessibility and visitor experience, alongside major investments in security, climate control, and infrastructure. “These initiatives not only protect our collections but also enhance the spiritual and cultural journey of every visitor,” Albanesi explained.
Building Bridges Through Donor Relations
The meeting emphasized the pivotal role of Patron Chapter Leaders as liaisons between the Vatican Museums and individual donors. Discussions focused on strengthening communication through diverse channels and collaborating with the Office of Relations with the Patrons of the Arts to maintain robust donor relationships. Recognizing donor generosity was highlighted as a cornerstone of sustaining support for ongoing and future projects.
Looking Ahead: Restoration and Laudato Si’
Conversations turned to future restoration and preservation initiatives, each designed to uphold the Vatican’s cultural, historical, and faith traditions while embracing the ecological vision of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ and the mission of Pope Leo XIV. These projects aim to balance heritage preservation with a commitment to environmental stewardship.
A Warm Canadian Welcome
The Canada Patrons Chapter hosted the delegation and Chapter Leaders with a visit to the National Gallery of Canada, followed by a Holy Mass on September 21 at the Apostolic Nunciature, celebrated by Archbishop Ivan Jurkovič, Apostolic Nuncio to Canada. The events underscored the global community’s shared commitment to the Vatican Museums’ mission.
The meeting reaffirmed the Patrons’ vital role in safeguarding the Vatican’s artistic and spiritual legacy, setting the stage for continued collaboration in the years ahead.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vaticanstate.va
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