Earlier today, the Vatican announced the appointment by Pope Francis of Archbishop Christophe Pierre as the next Apostolic Nuncio to the United States. I join Catholics around the country in offering best wishes to Archbishop Pierre as he accepts this important post.
Throughout his many years of service to the Church, Archbishop Pierre has displayed a strong sense of just diplomacy. Previously, he served as Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti (1995-1999), Uganda (1999-2007), and Mexico (2007-2016). His broad experience will greatly benefit the Church in the United States.
I also want to express my deep gratitude to Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganὸ, now retiring from his diplomatic duties. Throughout his time as Nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Viganὸ worked zealously for the spiritual welfare of Catholics and many other good people in our country. I am particularly thankful for his personal friendship and invaluable assistance as the Archdiocese of Philadelphia prepared for the World Meeting of Families and the visit of our Holy Father last year.
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Editor’s Note: As Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Pierre will serve as the Vatican’s diplomatic envoy to the United States. He succeeds Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganὸ who has served in that role since 2011 and reached the mandatory retirement age of 75 in January, 2016.
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