Robert Leiber

Robert Leiber (1887-1967), close advisor to Pope Pius XII, a Jesuit priest from Germany was Professor for Church History at the Gregorian University in Rome from 1930-1960.

Before 1924, worked with Ludwig Pastor on the publication of his 20 volume Papal History. From 1924 until 1929, he was advisor to Eugenio Pacelli while he was Nuncio in Munich and Berlin. While Professor at the Gregorian, he continued advising Pacelli, now Cardinal Secretary of State. After the election of Eugenio Pacelli to the papacy, Leiber helped and advised until the death of Pope Pius XII, October 9, 1958. Leiber assisted the Pope in researching the topics for his speeches and radio messages. In an October 1958 meeting, Leiber turned down a position offered by new Pope John XXIII in light of his health, suggesting instead Augustin Bea. He authored several books and acricles on Church history and on the Reichskonkordat

Robert Leiber, who suffered for many years acute asthma attacks, died in Rome 1967. He had a fine sense of humor. Addressing Vatican students, "I congratulate you for being under the sun in the shadow of the Vatican," was one of his favourite quotes.