Pope Francis announced today the appointment of Bishop John Dolan, auxiliary bishop of the Diocese of San Diego, as the new bishop of Phoenix. Cardinal-Designate Robert McElroy, of the San Diego Diocese, issued the following statement today:

“I rejoice in the Holy Father’s appointment of Bishop John Dolan as Bishop of Phoenix. He is a man of deep faith, pastoral wisdom and enormous energy.  In addition, there is a profound joy in his soul that reflects the grace of God and the wonderful love of his parents and family.

“Bishop Dolan has been the pastor of six very diverse parishes within the Diocese of San Diego, and to each he has brought leadership, prayerfulness, collaboration, creativity and unity. As Vicar for Clergy in our diocese, he has deepened the solidarity of our presbyterate and enhanced the personal well-being of our priests and deacons.

“The Catholic community of Phoenix is receiving a true shepherd of Jesus Christ as their leader.

“For the Church of San Diego and for me personally, Bishop Dolan’s departure will be a great loss. I thank him for all of the sacrifices he has made for our local Church, for the personal talents that have distinguished him in every facet of the ministries he has undertaken and for the enduring priestly identity to which he has constantly witnessed.”