COLUMBUS, Ohio — Father Earl K. Fernandes, of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, has been appointed bishop of the Diocese of Columbus, Pope Francis announced Saturday.
What You Need To Know
- Father Earl K. Fernandes was chosen by Pope Francis as the Diocese of Columbus’ next bishop
- The Toledo native will begin serving in his new role May 31
- He currently serves as a pastor at St. Ignatius of Loyola’s pastor in Cincinnati
He will be installed as the Diocese of Columbus Bishop May 31. He replaces Bishop Robert Brennan, who left to lead the Diocese of Brooklyn last year.
“I look forward to meeting the People of God – the priests, deacons, religious, and lay faithful of the Diocese of Columbus – and to collaborating with them in announcing the joyful Good News and building the Kingdom of God,” Fernandes said. “I ask for your prayers, not only for me but also for our Diocese, that the Holy Spirit may enkindle in all of us the fire of His Divine Love. May God grant me the grace to serve His people well and to be an ardent yet gentle shepherd, whose heart is formed after the Heart of Jesus.”
Fernandes was ordained in Cincinnati in 2002 and is currently a pastor at St. Ignatius of Loyola Church in Cincinnati. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus.
Fernandes is a native of Toledo and a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and the University of Toledo.
“We will miss Fr. Fernandes’ incredible intellect, unflagging energy, and concern for all people, but know that these traits will serve him well as he expands his ministry to shepherd the faithful people of Columbus,” said Dennis M. Schnurr, archbishop of Cincinnati. “Bishop-elect Fernandes has ministered to the people of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati in many ways since his ordination to the priesthood.”