"Mons. Domenico Basile appointed as new bishop of the Diocese of Molfetta-Ruvo-Giovinazzo-Terlizzi" di Carlo Coppola
Everyone called him Don Mimmo, but now he will be His Most Reverend Excellency Mons. Domenico Basile.
Pope Leo XIV has appointed Mons. Domenico Basile as the new Bishop of Molfetta-Ruvo-Giovinazzo-Terlizzi, succeeding His Excellency Monsignor Domenico Cornacchia, who resigned in accordance with canon law upon reaching the age limit. The official announcement came on January 9, 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the local Church. The date for his episcopal ordination and subsequent installation in the diocese is now awaited.
Born in Andria on June 3, 1966, Bishop-elect Basile's formation took place in the seminaries of Andria and Molfetta—places that deeply shaped his vocation and which he knows intimately. Ordained a priest on September 14, 1991, he spent his early ministry in parish pastoral care, working closely with communities and families. He furthered his theological studies in Rome, earning a licentiate in pastoral theology from the Pontifical Lateran University. This strong foundation has been put to service in the Puglian Church through various diocesan roles, culminating in his appointment as Vicar General of the Diocese of Andria from 2021 to 2025. In that position, he demonstrated unwavering dedication to supporting the clergy and guiding parish communities.
A key aspect of Mons Basile's ministry is his profound spiritual connection to Don Tonino Bello. He has embraced this spiritual legacy, showing a strong commitment to the values Don Tonino embodied from his formative years. His focus on dialogue with civil society, youth ministry, charitable initiatives, and social engagement echoes the evangelical sensitivity that made Don Tonino a "Gospel made flesh" among the people.
The formation of future priests has always been central to Bishop-elect Basile's heart and work. His close ties to the Molfetta Seminary—a historic hub for priestly formation in Puglia—underscore this priority. Like Don Tonino Bello before him, the new bishop views vocational discernment and ongoing clergy formation as essential for the local Church's future.
The diocese Bishop Basile is called to lead is a vibrant, deeply rooted ecclesial community. Spanning about 442 square kilometers and serving roughly 128,700 residents across the municipalities of Molfetta, Ruvo di Puglia, Giovinazzo, and Terlizzi, it includes nearly 126,000 baptized Catholics, representing 97.7% of the population. Its pastoral structure features 36 parishes, supported by approximately 87 priests (diocesan and religious), 7 permanent deacons, and a strong presence of consecrated life with 139 religious brothers and sisters. The Pontifical Regional Puglian Seminary in Molfetta remains a beacon for nurturing young vocations throughout the region.
Bishop-elect Basile brings his experience as Vicar General, robust theological and pastoral training, and above all, a missionary heart honed in the school of Don Tonino Bello. Emphasizing faith lived in daily life, openness to society, and closeness to the poor and marginalized will continue to guide the local Church's pastoral efforts. Giovinazzo, along with the other diocesan communities, prepares to welcome its new shepherd, entrusting him with the hopes, joys, and challenges of a people steadfast in their faith journey.
Carlo Coppola
