The discreet monk who has reached the highest levels of the Catalan Church

Fray Octavi Vilà i Mayo, recently appointed bishop of Girona, has a background as a librarian and historian. He previously served as the abbot of Poblet Monastery for eight years before becoming bishop in 2024. His tenure has been marked by efforts to reorganize the diocese amid declining religious vocations and an aging clergy. Vilà has openly addressed challenges facing the Church, including its diminishing social influence and the need for greater lay involvement. He also supported the use of Catalan during a blessing ceremony at the Sagrada Família. His close relationship with Archbishop Joan Planellas has been significant in his ecclesiastical journey, particularly during his appointment process.