Our Archbishop
Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez
Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez, born in Miami in 1961 and raised in New Jersey, was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1989 after earning degrees in psychology and theology. He served in various pastoral and educational roles, including ministry to Hispanic Catholics, founding the Catholic Institute for Evangelization, and teaching at La Salle University and Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary. After serving as pastor of Saint William Parish in Philadelphia and Saint Agnes Parish in West Chester, PA, he was ordained an Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre in 2012 and appointed Bishop of Cleveland in 2017. In 2020, he returned to Philadelphia as its 14th Bishop and 10th Archbishop.
Known for his vision of a “Church on Mission,” Archbishop Pérez has held key leadership roles within the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. He currently serves on the Pontifical Commission for Latin America and is a board member of the Black and Indian Mission Office. In addition, he serves as Episcopal Advisor and Board Member of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry.
Archbishop Pérez has served as the Chairman of the Board of Catholic Relief Services, one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations. He serves on the Board of Trustees of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
A recipient of honorary doctorates from La Salle University, Neumann University, and Villanova University, Archbishop Pérez brings a kind, joyful, and dedicated spirit to the ministries and people entrusted to his care.
A Lifelong Call to Serve
Early Life & Education
1961
Born June 16 in Miami, Florida to David and Emma Pérez; raised in West New York, NJ
1983
Earned Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Montclair State University
1988
Earned Master of Divinity from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia
1989
Earned Master of Arts in Theology from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary
Priesthood
May 20, 1989
Ordained priest for Archdiocese of Philadelphia at Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
1989-1993
Parochial Vicar at Saint Ambrose Parish, Philadelphia
1990-1993
Assistant director of Office for Hispanic Catholics
1993-2002
Founding director of Catholic Institute for Evangelization
1994-2008
Taught psychology and religious studies courses at La Salle University, Philadelphia
1998
Named Chaplain to Pope John Paul II with title of Monsignor
2002-2009
Pastor of Saint William Parish, Philadelphia
2009
Named Prelate of Honor by Pope Benedict XVI
2009-2012
Pastor of Saint Agnes Parish, West Chester, PA
Fall 2011
Taught Developmental Psychology at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary
Episcopal Ministry
June 8, 2012
Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY by Pope Benedict XVI
July 25, 2012
Ordained Bishop at Saint Agnes Cathedral, Rockville Centre, NY by Bishop William F. Murphy
2012-2017
Served as Auxiliary Bishop with various roles including Episcopal Vicar for Eastern Vicariate (66 parishes) and Hispanic Ministry (54 parishes)
July 11, 2017
Appointed 11th Bishop of Diocese of Cleveland by Pope Francis
September 5, 2017
Installed at Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist, Cleveland
January 23, 2020
Appointed 14th Bishop and 10th Archbishop of Archdiocese of Philadelphia by Pope Francis
Recent Honors & Appointments
December 7, 2020
Appointed to Pontifical Commission for Latin America by Pope Francis
September 2021
Received Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from La Salle University
November 2022
Appointed Chair of Board of Catholic Relief Services (three-year term)
December 2022
Received Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Neumann University
May 2024
Received Honorary Doctorate in Sacred Letters from Villanova University
Leadership Roles
- Chair, USCCB Standing Committee on Cultural Diversity
- Chair, USCCB Sub-Committee for Hispanic Affairs
- Lead Bishop for V Encuentro process (USCCB)
- Bishop liaison for National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry
- Member of various USCCB boards including Religious Liberty and Administrative Committees
The Pastoral Letter
In a time that calls for unity, renewal, and vision, Archbishop Pérez invites every member of our local Church to join him in a heartfelt and honest conversation about our future together. Trust and Hope is more than a letter – it is a call to walk forward as one, guided by faith, courage, and belief in each other. This letter marks the beginning of a journey we will take together. Your voice, your prayers, and your presence are not only welcome – they are essential.
Let the conversation begin.
Coat of Arms
The coat of arms of Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez blends the deep personal roots of his heritage with the rich legacy of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. On one side of the shield are the arms of the Archdiocese, recalling both its secular and sacred foundations. The other half of the shield reveals the personal arms of Archbishop Pérez.
Below, the Archbishop’s motto reads “Confide et Spera,” or “Trust and Hope,” a quiet command to place our confidence in the Lord. In this coat of arms, faith, heritage, and hope are woven together — a visual testament to a shepherd guided by both personal history and divine light.
The Archbishop’s Initiatives
Commission for Racial Healing
Instituted by Archbishop Pérez in 2021, this diverse advisory body addresses the mortal sin of racism through Catholic Social Teaching and peaceful action.
Contact Ms. Marcelle McGuirk: openwideourhearts@archphila.org
Benefit for Children
Catholic Charities of Philadelphia helps children and families thrive through the Archbishop’s Benefit for Children each Advent. It supports vital programs assisting those facing dire challenges throughout the region.
Commission for Missionary Disciples
In 2020, Archbishop Pérez launched the Commission for Missionary Disciples to build a culture of discipleship. It introduced Ablaze Retreats & Schools of Discipleship, supporting his TrustandHope.org vision.
Support the Church’s Other Initiatives
The Catholic Church of Philadelphia supports initiatives that uplift communities and serve those in need through education, outreach, charity, and advocacy—reflecting our Gospel-rooted commitment to compassion, dignity, and building a just, merciful society.
Connect with the Archbishop
At the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday we joyously welcomed into Full Communion with the Church 500 Catechumens and 662 Candidates representing 128 parishes across the @archphilly ’s 5 county region including at the @cathedralphila! God is good, all the time! 🙏🕊️
Please join me in prayerfully congratulating these 1162 missionary disciples ❤️ on receiving their Sacraments following months of formation and preparation as well as sharing prayerful gratitude for our brothers and sisters who accompanied them in their formation!
May God bless them abundantly during this Holy Easter Season and always!
At the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday we joyously welcomed into Full Communion with the Church 500 Catechumens and 662 Candidates representing 128 parishes across the @archphilly ’s 5 county region including at the @cathedralphila! God is good, all the time! 🙏🕊️
Please join me in prayerfully congratulating these 1162 missionary disciples ❤️ on receiving their Sacraments following months of formation and preparation as well as sharing prayerful gratitude for our brothers and sisters who accompanied them in their formation!
May God bless them abundantly during this Holy Easter Season and always! …
On Good Friday ✝️, at the Mother Church of the @archphilly, the @cathedralphila, faithful from across our region participated in the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, commemorating the Holy Passion and Death of Jesus Christ. Once again, as throughout the Paschal Triduum at the Cathedral, Members of the Cathedral Basilica Choir provided liturgical music.
The Office of Readings, Way of the Cross and a Choral Meditation on the Passion took place at the Cathedral, prior to the Good Friday service. Additionally, the Sacrament of Reconciliation was offered.
During the Good Friday service we also prayed for the special intention for peace in the world 🕊️🙏, especially in the Middle East and Ukraine.
On Good Friday ✝️, at the Mother Church of the @archphilly, the @cathedralphila, faithful from across our region participated in the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, commemorating the Holy Passion and Death of Jesus Christ. Once again, as throughout the Paschal Triduum at the Cathedral, Members of the Cathedral Basilica Choir provided liturgical music.
The Office of Readings, Way of the Cross and a Choral Meditation on the Passion took place at the Cathedral, prior to the Good Friday service. Additionally, the Sacrament of Reconciliation was offered.
During the Good Friday service we also prayed for the special intention for peace in the world 🕊️🙏, especially in the Middle East and Ukraine. …
On Holy Thursday, I was blessed to concelebrate the annual Chrism Mass with my brother bishops and priests of the @archphilly and to renew our priestly promises at the @cathedralphila.
During this Mass, I blessed the Oil of Catechumens as well as the Oil of the Sick and consecrated the Oil of Chrism. These Holy Oils will be used at parishes throughout the Archdiocese during the coming year in the celebration of the Sacraments.
Members of our Cathedral Basilica and Archdiocesan Choirs, along with the Cathedral Instrumentalists, provided beautiful liturgical music.
On Holy Thursday, I was blessed to concelebrate the annual Chrism Mass with my brother bishops and priests of the @archphilly and to renew our priestly promises at the @cathedralphila.
During this Mass, I blessed the Oil of Catechumens as well as the Oil of the Sick and consecrated the Oil of Chrism. These Holy Oils will be used at parishes throughout the Archdiocese during the coming year in the celebration of the Sacraments.
Members of our Cathedral Basilica and Archdiocesan Choirs, along with the Cathedral Instrumentalists, provided beautiful liturgical music. …
Alleluia! He is Risen!
#easter #catholic #catholicchurchofphila
Alleluia! He is Risen!
#easter #catholic #catholicchurchofphila …
¡Aleluya! ¡Ha resucitado!
#PascuadeResurrección
¡Aleluya! ¡Ha resucitado!
#PascuadeResurrección …
Dear Friends in Christ,
I’m so grateful for your prayers and concern. I felt very lightheaded during the Chrism Mass today and left the altar. Doctors and EMS personnel evaluated me at the Cathedral. My vital signs are normal and I feel just fine. I’m grateful for their help and your concern. A Blessed Triduum to you all!
Dear Friends in Christ,
I’m so grateful for your prayers and concern. I felt very lightheaded during the Chrism Mass today and left the altar. Doctors and EMS personnel evaluated me at the Cathedral. My vital signs are normal and I feel just fine. I’m grateful for their help and your concern. A Blessed Triduum to you all! …
As we prepare for the start of the Sacred Paschal Triduum tomorrow, Holy Week began on Palm Sunday 🌿 at the Mother Church of the @archphilly, @cathedralphila with the Mass commemorating Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
I continue to pray for you and your loved ones this Holy Week and always!
#PalmSunday #holyweek #catholicchurchofphiladelphia
As we prepare for the start of the Sacred Paschal Triduum tomorrow, Holy Week began on Palm Sunday 🌿 at the Mother Church of the @archphilly, @cathedralphila with the Mass commemorating Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
I continue to pray for you and your loved ones this Holy Week and always!
#PalmSunday #holyweek #catholicchurchofphiladelphia …
Last Thursday, following months of prayerful preparation and instruction, 75 Confirmandi of Nativity of Our Lord Parish and @nativity_school_pa Warminster, PA received the Sacrament of Confirmation and Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
I was blessed to be with them alongside their Pastor, Father Joseph Watson; loved ones; and parish community.
Come, Holy Spirit! 🕊️🔥
Last Thursday, following months of prayerful preparation and instruction, 75 Confirmandi of Nativity of Our Lord Parish and @nativity_school_pa Warminster, PA received the Sacrament of Confirmation and Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
I was blessed to be with them alongside their Pastor, Father Joseph Watson; loved ones; and parish community.
Come, Holy Spirit! 🕊️🔥 …
Dear Friends in the Jewish Faith Community,
Together with the people of the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, I extend warm greetings as you celebrate the holy days of Passover.
Your preparation for the solemn commemoration of Pesach comes at a time of conflict and anxiety. The Catholic community shares your hope for peace in our world and in our hearts. Our hope is grounded in the promise of the Almighty who is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in love and fidelity” (Exodus 34:6).
The customs of Jewish families in the Philadelphia region and around the world renew the memory of the Lord’s faithfulness and power to release the ancient Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Divine grace continues to free people from slavery to sin in every time and place.
I pray that your celebration of Passover will bring renewed hope, the gift of enduring peace, and an abundance of blessings.
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D. Archbishop of Philadelphia
Dear Friends in the Jewish Faith Community,
Together with the people of the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, I extend warm greetings as you celebrate the holy days of Passover.
Your preparation for the solemn commemoration of Pesach comes at a time of conflict and anxiety. The Catholic community shares your hope for peace in our world and in our hearts. Our hope is grounded in the promise of the Almighty who is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in love and fidelity” (Exodus 34:6).
The customs of Jewish families in the Philadelphia region and around the world renew the memory of the Lord’s faithfulness and power to release the ancient Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Divine grace continues to free people from slavery to sin in every time and place.
I pray that your celebration of Passover will bring renewed hope, the gift of enduring peace, and an abundance of blessings.
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D. Archbishop of Philadelphia …
On Saturday, our @phillyomya held its annual Sonrise Festival ☀️✝️ at the beautiful @czestochowa_shrine of in Doylestown, PA!
I was blessed to be with these young adult missionary disciples, of the @archphilly, whose faith is on fire for the Lord. They walked with Jesus at Stations of the Cross, shared in the celebration of the Eucharist, spent time in prayerful Adoration, shared fellowship, and prepared their hearts for the start of Holy Week.
On Saturday, our @phillyomya held its annual Sonrise Festival ☀️✝️ at the beautiful @czestochowa_shrine of in Doylestown, PA!
I was blessed to be with these young adult missionary disciples, of the @archphilly, whose faith is on fire for the Lord. They walked with Jesus at Stations of the Cross, shared in the celebration of the Eucharist, spent time in prayerful Adoration, shared fellowship, and prepared their hearts for the start of Holy Week. …
Our journey as missionary disciples brings us to Holy Week and the culminating days of Lent. ✝️🙏
#holyweek #PalmSunday #catholic #catholicchurchofphila #TrustAndHope
Our journey as missionary disciples brings us to Holy Week and the culminating days of Lent. ✝️🙏
#holyweek #PalmSunday #catholic #catholicchurchofphila #TrustAndHope …
Nuestro camino como discípulos misioneros nos conduce a la Semana Santa y a los días culminantes de la Cuaresma. ✝️🙏
#SemanaSanta #DomingoDeRamos #católica #Filadelfia
Nuestro camino como discípulos misioneros nos conduce a la Semana Santa y a los días culminantes de la Cuaresma. ✝️🙏
#SemanaSanta #DomingoDeRamos #católica #Filadelfia …