On March 17, 2025, Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Bishop Dennis Sullivan from the Diocese of Camden in New Jersey, announcing the appointment of Coadjutor Bishop Joseph Williams as his successor.

The news was shared by Apostolic Nuncio Cardinal Christophe Pierre in Washington, D.C., marking a significant change for the diocese.

A New Chapter for the Diocese of Camden

The Diocese of Camden, which covers 62 parishes and serves around 305,000 Catholics, has seen a leadership transition after Bishop Sullivan’s resignation.

Sullivan, who was appointed to lead the diocese by Pope Benedict XVI in 2013, had served as its eighth bishop.

Before his appointment in Camden, he had a notable career, including time as the auxiliary bishop of New York.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan had praised him highly at the time of his appointment, calling him “one of the finest bishops I know” and “an invaluable help.”

Bishop Sullivan’s Resignation

Bishop Sullivan’s resignation was initially submitted to Pope Francis on his 75th birthday, March 17, 2020.

It wasn’t until his 80th birthday, however, that the pope officially accepted the resignation, marking the end of Sullivan’s time leading the diocese.

Introducing Coadjutor Bishop Joseph Williams

Taking over the reins is Coadjutor Bishop Joseph Williams, a Minnesota native born on May 2, 1974, the third of nine children.

Williams’ path to the priesthood began at the University of Minnesota, Morris, and continued at Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio, where he felt a calling to serve.

After entering the Saint Paul Seminary in 1998, he was ordained a priest in 2002 by Archbishop Harry Flynn.

Williams is known for his work with Latino and Spanish-speaking Catholics, having served at the Cathedral of Saint Paul and Divine Mercy Parish in Faribault.

He also worked with parishes like St. Mathias in Hampton and St. Mary in New Trier.

His deep commitment to ministry and service has shaped his journey, leading him to this pivotal new role in the Diocese of Camden.