Gebetsliga Mourns the Passing of Bishop Teodoro de Faria
The Emperor Karl League of Prayer (Gebetsliga) shares in mourning the passing of Bishop Teodoro de Faria, GOIH (24 August 1930 – 23 August 2025), Bishop Emeritus of Funchal, who died on 23 August 2025 at the age of 94.
A native of Madeira, Bishop de Faria was ordained a priest in 1955 and later pursued advanced studies in Scripture and archaeology at the Gregorian University in Rome, the Pontifical Biblical Institute, and the École Biblique in Jerusalem. He went on to serve as vice-rector and rector of the Pontifical Portuguese College in Rome before Pope Saint John Paul II appointed him Bishop of Funchal. He was ordained bishop in Rome on 16 May 1982 and took possession of the diocese later that month, guiding it faithfully until his retirement in 2007.
During his 26 years as bishop, he became known for his wide culture, deep knowledge of Madeira’s historical and religious heritage, and his great dedication to pastoral care. He ordained many priests, promoted advanced studies for clergy, oversaw the construction of new churches, and welcomed Pope John Paul II to Madeira on a historic pastoral visit.
Above all, Bishop de Faria will be remembered internationally for his role in promoting the cause of Blessed Karl of Austria, who died in exile in Madeira in 1922. As shepherd of the diocese where the Emperor spent his final days, Bishop de Faria worked tirelessly to honor his legacy of Christian leadership and fidelity. On 3 October 2004, in Saint Peter’s Square, he had the privilege of formally presenting to the Holy Father the petition for Emperor Karl’s beatification — a milestone moment for the Church and for all devoted to Blessed Karl’s witness.
The Gebetsliga gives thanks to God for Bishop de Faria’s life, ministry, and devotion to Blessed Karl, and we commend him to the prayers of all who look to Blessed Karl as a model of faith and perseverance.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.