It is with great joy that I welcome the news that our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has appointed Father John C. Iffert as the next Bishop of the Diocese of Covington. Bishop-elect Iffert brings a wonderful background in ministry as a priest of the Diocese of Belleville where he has served as a parochial vicar, a pastor, and most recently as the Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia. He is known to have great pastoral heart as well as excellent pastoral experience in his more than two decades of service in the Diocese of Belleville.
Bishop-elect Iffert is succeeding my friend and brother bishop, Bishop Roger Foys, who this month is completing 19 years as Bishop of Covington. Bishop Foys has served Northern Kentucky with great distinction, and I join with the bishops of the Province in thanking him for his leadership and collaboration since 2002.
The bishops of the Province of Louisville have a great fraternity, and together we welcome Bishop-elect Iffert. We promise him and Bishop Foys our prayerful support.
Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D.
July 13, 2021
