April 8, 2025
Dear Friends in Christ,
Today it was announced that Pope Francis has appointed Baltimore’s Bishop Bruce Lewandowski, C.Ss.R., as the next Bishop of Providence Rhode Island. He will be installed as Bishop of Providence on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025.
Although we shall all keenly miss the presence and ministry of Bishop Lewandowski in our midst, it must be said that Pope Francis could not have chosen a better bishop for the Diocese of Providence. Throughout his service here in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Bishop Lewandowski served the People of God with zeal, fidelity, and love. Under his pastoral leadership, Sacred Heart Parish in Highlandtown flourished in the vibrancy of its worship and its outreach to the wider community. As Auxiliary Bishop, he preached the Gospel far and wide with zeal and effectiveness, greatly strengthened ministry to and among our growing Hispanic community and effectively conducted the Seek to City to Come parish realignment process, and much more. Fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, Bishop Bruce will bring his many gifts, his energy, and his pastoral heart to the People of God in the Providence Diocese.
On a personal note, let me say how much I have enjoyed working closely with Bishop Bruce. His friendship, his knowledge of the Archdiocese, and his love for its people, coupled with his religious charism and wise judgment have been invaluable. I know he goes to Providence warmly supported by the prayers of clergy, religious, and laity throughout the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
As Bishop Bruce prepares for a new chapter in his life and ministry, let us continue to keep him in our prayers. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Alphonsus Ligouri, may he enjoy many years of robust health and a joyful ministry that bears the good and lasting fruit of the Gospel.
Faithfully in Christ,
Most Reverend William E. Lori
Archbishop of Baltimore
*To watch the live press conference from the Diocese of Providence on April 8 at 10:00 a.m., visit: Diocese of Providence – YouTube.