All of us from the Catholic Diocese of Memphis in Tennessee congratulate our new pontiff, Pope Francis, and pledge our support and allegiance. His election was a surprise — a pleasant surprise. The fact that he is a religious who took the name Francis speaks to his humility. His choice of name also speaks well of how he plans to guide the church in focusing on the needs of strengthening and evangelizing the universal Church. What a blessing it is that Argentina has given the Church its first pope from the new world. We pray for Pope Francis that he will be guided by the Holy Spirit in service to the Church.
Most Reverend J. Terry Steib
Bishop of Memphis
Once again the Holy Spirit has answered the prayers of the Church and selected for us a new Holy Father in the person of Pope Francis. We rejoice and pledge our prayers for our new Holy Father and pray that he will have many fruitful years in shepherding the Church entrusted to his care. We pray that God may bestow every blessing on His Holiness Pope Francis.
Most Reverend Roger J. Foys
Bishop of Covington
Christ commissioned Peter as chief among the Apostles, entrusting to him the keys of the kingdom and the care of the flock. Since Jesus commissioned him to lead the Church, two hundred and sixty-six men have exercised the ministry entrusted to Peter the fisherman, Peter the prince of the apostles. …read more
Most Reverend Ronald W. Gainer
Bishop of Lexington
The election of the Cardinal Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, is a source of great joy for us as Catholics. It speaks of many qualities of the life of the Church. …read more
Most Reverend David R. Choby
Bishop of Nashville
To the surprise of those who thought they were in the know, but did not know the mind of the Holy Spirit, the College of Cardinals have elected a man of prayer who has a deep love for the Church and Her teachings. He is a man who has an authentic love of those who are so often forgotten, who has a yearning to be the presence of Christ to others. The name he has chosen for himself shows his desire to serve, to be Francis in our midst, as well as Peter. I believe that our new Holy Father, like St. Francis of Assisi, will call us to, “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary, use words.” I know that all people of good will, especially my brothers and sisters in East Tennessee, are with me in prayer for our new Shepherd and pastor of the Universal Church!
Most Reverend Richard F. Stika
Bishop of Knoxville
It is a time of great joy for the Catholic Church and for the world. We have a new pope. Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the archbishop of Buenos Aires in Argentina, has been chosen by the College of Cardinals to be the Bishop of Rome...read more
Most Reverend William F. Medley
Bishop of Owensboro
