Monday, October 28, 2013

Bishop Gagnon appointed Archbishop-elect

Pope Francis makes decision after a resignation early Monday morning

The Most Reverend Richard Gagnon has been appointed the Archbishop-elect of Winnipeg by Pope Francis. The appointment comes after the age-related resignation of former Archbishop Weisgerber. Photo: CCCB website

His Holiness Pope Francis newly appointed the Most Reverend Richard Gagnon the Archbishop-elect for the city of Winnipeg. The decision came soon after the resignation of the former Archbishop Weisgerber, who offered his required resignation after turning 75 years old.

Archbishop-elect Gagnon previously served as the bishop for the diocese of Victoria since 2004.

He recently released this letter addressed to the faithful of Victoria, thanking them for their love and support over the past nine years.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, 

The news of my appointment as Archbishop-Elect of Winnipeg is something I accept with humility and total reliance on the Grace of God. I believe very much that Christ is present among us and that he enlightens our path if we open our hearts to his transforming Grace. I wish to open my heart to all of you, the Faithful of the Diocese of Victoria and simply express my deep gratitude for the love, kindness and support that I have experienced over these past nine years. It was a great privilege for me to serve as your bishop in spite of my many shortcomings. I also acknowledge our dedicated Clergy, Religious, and Pastoral Centre staff, for their support, collaboration and friendship. As a community of Faith, we have lived through many joys and challenges together and we can be certain that the Lord will help us to look to the future with hope. As I prepare to take on my new appointment, I realize what a great honour it is to be called by Pope Francis to serve the People of God in the Archdiocese of Winnipeg and I pray that
the Lord will give me courage and wisdom to serve him in love and to build up the Body of Christ.
 

Brothers and Sisters, I ask for your prayers and I assure you that I will remember you to the Lord.


Yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Richard Gagnon
Administrator of the Diocese of Victoria
Archbishop-Elect of Winnipeg


1 comment:

  1. Congratulation Your Grace on this appointment. It may be cold in Winnipeg but you will surely warm the hearts of all being their new Arch-Bishop.

    ReplyDelete

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