The Holy Father, Pope Francis, today named the Most Reverend Daniel E. Thomas as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Cleveland in addition to his responsibilities as the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Toledo. This appointment accompanied Pope Francis’ acceptance of the resignation of the Most Reverend Richard G. Lennon for health reasons. Bishop Thomas has served as the Bishop of Toledo since 22 October 2014 and will continue in this office as he also serves the Diocese of Cleveland.
According to canon law, the role of the Administrator is to maintain the operations of the diocese and provide for the needs of the faithful until the next diocesan bishop is named by the Holy Father. “It will be a privilege to be of service to the priests, deacons, consecrated religious, employees, and lay faithful of the Diocese of Cleveland during this time of transition,” Bishop Thomas remarked after receiving word of the appointment from the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, the Most Reverend Christophe Pierre.
Bishop Lennon, whose retirement was prompted by health concerns, has served as Bishop of Cleveland since 15 May 2006. Bishop Thomas has asked all the faithful of the Diocese of Cleveland and the Diocese of Toledo to remember Bishop Lennon in their prayers. Bishop Thomas will also depend on all their good prayers that his ministry will be pastorally beneficial and spiritually fruitful.
Posted December 28, 2016 at 11:13 am