Statement of Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. On The Appointment Of Most Reverend Nelson J. Perez As The 11th Bishop Of The Diocese Of Cleveland
It was announced today in Rome that Pope Francis has appointed Most Reverend Nelson J. Perez as the 11th Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland.
This moment is one of great joy for the Church in Ohio and in Pennsylvania. Bishop Perez was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1989. He served here for many years at the parish level with a keen focus on ministry to Hispanic Catholics before being named an Auxiliary Bishop for the Diocese of Rockville Centre in 2012. He has a joyful, warm, and down-to-earth personality as well as a deep love for the priesthood and a tireless devotion to his ministry. He’s been much loved by all those he has served and wherever he has served. The faithful of the Diocese of Cleveland are receiving a wonderful gift from the Holy Father in the person of Bishop Perez.
His wide-ranging pastoral and administrative experience among diverse communities makes him well prepared to shepherd a diocese of his own. I’m confident that Bishop Perez will carry on the work of his predecessors with great energy, compassion, zeal, and fidelity.
As he prepares to begin his new ministry, I offer Bishop Perez heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the priests, deacons, religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. I ask that all people of good will join me in praying that the Holy Spirit will continue to strengthen him as a successor to the Apostles.
+Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
Archbishop of Philadelphia
Archdiocese of Philadelphia
ArchPhilly
ArchPhilly
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