He received a theology degree after studying from 1968 to 1972 at the Pontifical Regional Seminary of Benevento, Campania, and was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Ascoli Satriano e Cerignola on 23 December 1972.

In 2004 he became Head of National Service for the Higher Study of Theology and Religious Science at the Italian Episcopal Conference (CEI).

[6] Longtime Vatican observer John L. Allen later described the appointment as indicative of Pope Francis' management style, putting his own person in place without removing the head of the CEI and "making it so clear that [Galantino] enjoys his favor that everyone understands he's the real papal point of reference in the Italian episcopacy".

[8] In May 2014, in an interview about preparations for the Synod on the Family in October 2014, Bishop Galantino told the Florence-based La Nazione newspaper that he wanted church leaders to open their minds to different views: "My wish for the Italian Church is that it is able to listen without any taboo to the arguments in favour of married priests, the Eucharist for the divorced, and homosexuality."

I don't identify with the expressionless person who stands outside the abortion clinic reciting their rosary, but with young people, who are still against this practice, but are instead fighting for quality of life, their health, their right to work.

"[9] In August 2014, he said the Church must make everyone feel at home, that "Couples in irregular matrimonial situations are also Christians, but they are sometimes looked upon with prejudice.

[10] He did not advocate allowing divorced Catholics who remarried to receive Communion, but said that "pastoral charity which for people facing marriage and family difficulties means acceptance, understanding, accompanying and support".