From 1993 to 1999 he worked for the Congregation for Catholic Education in Rome. In 1999 he became a professor of spiritual theology at the Faculty of Theology of Lugano and episcopal vicar of the diocese of Lugano for women religious. From 1999 to 2009 he was a parish collaborator in Locarno, where he dealt in particular with preaching, catechesis and Lectio divina. In 2009 he moved to Bose, Poland, for a year, dedicating himself to study and research, and making a journey of spiritual deepening. Returning to Lugano, he resumed the duties of episcopal vicar and teacher at the Faculty of Theology. In 2010 he became canon of the chapter of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. He was also appointed spiritual director at the diocesan seminary and assistant to the Ordo Virginum.[1]
Pope Francis named Lazzeri bishop of Lugano in Switzerland on 4 November 2013.[1] He received his episcopal consecration on 7 December from Archbishop Diego Causero, apostolic nuncio to Switzerland.
Pope Francis accepted his resignation on 11 October 2022 without explanation.[2] At a press conference the same day Lazzeri said: "Sincerity and complete transparency compel me to tell you that, especially in the last two years, an inner fatigue has grown in me that has gradually deprived me of the momentum and serenity."[3]
