Posted July 16, 2020

Archbishop Nelson J. Perez released the following statement Thursday, July 16 on the appointment of Most Reverend Edward C. Malesic as the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland.

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I was filled with great joy this morning to learn that our Holy Father has appointed Most Reverend Edward C. Malesic as the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland. Bishop Malesic brings to his new diocese vast administrative expertise, a priestly heart, and a deep commitment to serving the pastoral and temporal needs of the Church with zeal and energy.

It has been a privilege to work with him here in Pennsylvania since my appointment as Archbishop of Philadelphia in January. The Church in Ohio is receiving a true gift from Pope Francis in the person of Bishop Malesic. I know he will serve joyfully as a faithful shepherd and spiritual father. I also take this opportunity to express my best wishes to Father Donald Oleksiak who has served as Apostolic Administrator for the past six months. He was a great source of wisdom and support for me during my tenure as Cleveland’s bishop and I know he will be a valuable asset to Bishop Malesic.

The people of the Diocese of Cleveland will always be near to my heart. My service as their shepherd was filled with many happy memories. I know they will embrace Bishop Malesic with the same spirit of faithfulness and warmth I experienced during my time there.

In the name of the priests, religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia I extend congratulations and prayerful best wishes to Bishop Malesic as he prepares to accept his new assignment. I ask that all people of good will join me in praying that the Holy Spirit will continue to strengthen him as a successor to the Apostles and that God may continue to bless him abundantly during this next phase of his episcopal ministry.

+Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez
Archbishop of Philadelphia