From Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda

It is with deep joy, and gratitude to Pope Francis, that I welcome the news of the appointment of Bishop Robert Barron as the next bishop of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. I have long admired his ministry and am delighted that he will now be bringing his rich experience and considerable gifts as a teacher and preacher to the people of southern Minnesota, building on the firm foundation that is Bishop John Quinn’s legacy after 13 years of faithful ministry as Bishop of Winona-Rochester. I very much look forward to collaborating with Bishop Barron as he joins the bishops of our state in striving to provide pastoral leadership after the heart of Christ, the Good Shepherd. As the Church prepares for the Solemnity of Pentecost, please join me in praying for a renewed outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon Bishop Barron, Bishop Quinn and the faithful of the Diocese of Winona–Rochester and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, particularly in this time of transition.