Originally published by the New Outlook, the Diocese of Tucson Online News.
Dear sisters and brothers in Christ Jesus,
Recently our Holy Father Francis has asked that I serve as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tucson until such time that our eighth bishop is appointed by the Holy Father to replace Archbishop Edward Weisenburger who was transferred to the Archdiocese of Detroit.
I know all of us miss Archbishop Weisenburger who served with such dedication and commitment as our bishop for nearly eight years.
I am aware that much has changed in our Diocese in the more than seven years I have been retired. My prayer and hope is that I can work again as a co-worker with our caring priests, deacons, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese to address pressing pastoral needs, appointments and initiatives that need attention during this time when we are without an Ordinary.
It is anticipated that it will be six months or more before a new bishop is appointed. We will begin immediately praying in all our parishes for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the appointment of our eighth bishop.
I look forward to getting updated by our Pastoral Center Directors and Directors of our various boards and agencies on what priorities need attention during this time of transition. So much good is happening throughout our Diocese and I am confident that we can continue those programs and initiatives for the well being of our community until we hear the joyous announcement of our eighth bishop.
Please pray for “this ol’ bishop” as I always remember you in my prayers.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Rev. Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas
Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tucson