...By Jack Sylva for TDPel Media.
Installation Set for July 25, 2023
Bishop-elect Edward M. Lohse, a 61-year-old priest from Erie, Pennsylvania, has been chosen by Pope Francis to lead the Diocese of Kalamazoo, Michigan.
The appointment comes following the acceptance of the resignation of Bishop Paul J. Bradley, aged 77.
Bishop Bradley will continue to serve as the apostolic administrator until Lohse’s ordination on July 25 at St. Augustine Cathedral.
Background of the Diocese of Kalamazoo
The Diocese of Kalamazoo encompasses nine counties in southwest Michigan and is home to 59 parishes, 21 Catholic schools, and approximately 80,000 Catholics.
With the change in leadership, Bishop-elect Lohse will assume responsibility for this vibrant Catholic community.
Bishop-elect Lohse’s Diverse Experience
Bishop-elect Lohse has held various positions of importance within the Church.
Since 2017, he has served as the vicar general and moderator of the curia for the Diocese of Erie.
Over his 34-year career as a Catholic priest, he has fulfilled roles such as parish priest, high school chaplain, vocations director, chancellor, official in the Vatican’s Dicastery for Clergy, director of the child protection office, and adjunct faculty member at the Pontifical North American College in Rome.
Academic Background and Faithful Commitment
Growing up as the sixth child in a family of seven, Bishop-elect Lohse hails from Pennsylvania.
He pursued higher education, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in history before entering the seminary.
He was ordained a priest in April 1989 and holds a license and doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome.
In a press release on May 23, Bishop-elect Lohse acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed his reliance on the prayers and support of Bishop Bradley, the clergy, religious, and laity of the Diocese of Kalamazoo.
He emphasized the shared journey of faith and the commitment to proclaiming Christ and encountering Him in the hearts of all God’s people in the diocese.
In conclusion, Pope Francis has entrusted Bishop-elect Edward M. Lohse with the responsibility of leading the Diocese of Kalamazoo.
With his extensive experience and academic background, he is poised to guide this diverse Catholic community.
The installation ceremony is scheduled for July 25, 2023, and Bishop-elect Lohse looks forward to embarking on this faith-filled journey together with the diocesan faithful.
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