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 is also the Chairman of the Board of Catholic Relief Services, one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations. He sits 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
Prior to Adoration during Praise and Worship at @ncycofficial , last night, Bishop Chylinski and I had the opportunity to spend time with our local 240+ strong pilgrim group led by our @phillyomy from @archphilly and @aops_schools ! I’m so impressed with these young hearts on fire for the Lord and representing “Gen Now!” I’m also prayerfully grateful to their incredible youth ministers who are accompanying them on their faith journey.
They fill me with so much hope for our local and global Church. God is good!!
Prior to Adoration during Praise and Worship at @ncycofficial , last night, Bishop Chylinski and I had the opportunity to spend time with our local 240+ strong pilgrim group led by our @phillyomy from @archphilly and @aops_schools ! I’m so impressed with these young hearts on fire for the Lord and representing “Gen Now!” I’m also prayerfully grateful to their incredible youth ministers who are accompanying them on their faith journey.
They fill me with so much hope for our local and global Church. God is good!! …
What a truly incredible encounter the 15,000 young people attending @ncycofficial at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis as well as the countless more young people watching globally via @ewtnmedia as they participated in the historic Digital Encounter with our Holy Father, Pope Leo.
I was truly blessed to accompany them this morning and lead the Holy Spirit Consecration just prior to the Holy Father joining us live from Rome. I’ve already gotten to meet so many young people, from around the country, and their youth ministers before and after this incredible interaction with Pope Leo.
I’m prayerfully grateful to Montse Alvarado, President and COO of EWTN; Christina Lamas, Executive Director of NFCYM; and Katie Prejean McGrady, Author, Speaker, Sirius XM Catholic Channel Host, CNN Vatican Analyst and Moderator of the Digital Encounter as well as the five incredible young people Mia, Elise, Christopher, Micah, and Ezequial and the countless number of people behind the scenes who worked to make this historic moment happen!
Come, Holy Spirit!
@phillyomy
@catholicphilly
@archphilly
#ncyc2025 #catholicchurchphila
What a truly incredible encounter the 15,000 young people attending @ncycofficial at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis as well as the countless more young people watching globally via @ewtnmedia as they participated in the historic Digital Encounter with our Holy Father, Pope Leo.
I was truly blessed to accompany them this morning and lead the Holy Spirit Consecration just prior to the Holy Father joining us live from Rome. I’ve already gotten to meet so many young people, from around the country, and their youth ministers before and after this incredible interaction with Pope Leo.
I’m prayerfully grateful to Montse Alvarado, President and COO of EWTN; Christina Lamas, Executive Director of NFCYM; and Katie Prejean McGrady, Author, Speaker, Sirius XM Catholic Channel Host, CNN Vatican Analyst and Moderator of the Digital Encounter as well as the five incredible young people Mia, Elise, Christopher, Micah, and Ezequial and the countless number of people behind the scenes who worked to make this historic moment happen!
Come, Holy Spirit!
@phillyomy
@catholicphilly
@archphilly
#ncyc2025 #catholicchurchphila …
On Monday evening, I was blessed to be at @skparish1 in Springfield (Delaware County) with Father Moloney, Pastor; the Confirmation Class; loved ones; and parish community for the Sacrament of Confirmation. These young people have spent months in prayerful preparation to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Come, Holy Spirit!
On Monday evening, I was blessed to be at @skparish1 in Springfield (Delaware County) with Father Moloney, Pastor; the Confirmation Class; loved ones; and parish community for the Sacrament of Confirmation. These young people have spent months in prayerful preparation to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Come, Holy Spirit! …
Get @reshare_app • @usccb U.S. Bishops Issue a “Special Message” on Immigration from Plenary Assembly in Baltimore
As the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for their Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore, the bishops issued a Special Message addressing their concern for the evolving situation impacting immigrants in the United States. It marked the first time in twelve years the USCCB invoked this particularly urgent way of speaking as a body of bishops. The last one issued in 2013 was in response to the federal government’s contraceptive mandate.
Get @reshare_app • @usccb U.S. Bishops Issue a “Special Message” on Immigration from Plenary Assembly in Baltimore
As the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for their Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore, the bishops issued a Special Message addressing their concern for the evolving situation impacting immigrants in the United States. It marked the first time in twelve years the USCCB invoked this particularly urgent way of speaking as a body of bishops. The last one issued in 2013 was in response to the federal government’s contraceptive mandate. …
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
This week I’m participating in the @usccb Fall General Assembly in Baltimore. The Bishops elected Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, who has served as Secretary of the USCCB since 2022, as the new president and Bishop Daniel E. Flores of Brownsville, Texas, who has served as Chairman of the Committee on Cultural Diversity since 2022 as Vice President. Please join me in extending congratulations and prayerful best wishes to my brother bishops as they take on these important roles in service to the Church in the United States.
In a special way, I extend my fraternal gratitude to Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of Military Services, USA, and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore for their service as President and Vice of the USCCB over the past three years.
Please pray that this Fall Assembly bears much fruit for the Church and that the Holy Spirit guides our work through the remainder of the week.
May God bless you abundantly!
Get @reshare_app • @usccb Today the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) announces the election of new leadership. Our prayers accompany the newly elected President and Vice President as they embark on a three-year term, committed to advancing the mission of the Church in the United States. #USCCB25
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
This week I’m participating in the @usccb Fall General Assembly in Baltimore. The Bishops elected Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, who has served as Secretary of the USCCB since 2022, as the new president and Bishop Daniel E. Flores of Brownsville, Texas, who has served as Chairman of the Committee on Cultural Diversity since 2022 as Vice President. Please join me in extending congratulations and prayerful best wishes to my brother bishops as they take on these important roles in service to the Church in the United States.
In a special way, I extend my fraternal gratitude to Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of Military Services, USA, and Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore for their service as President and Vice of the USCCB over the past three years.
Please pray that this Fall Assembly bears much fruit for the Church and that the Holy Spirit guides our work through the remainder of the week.
May God bless you abundantly!
Get @reshare_app • @usccb Today the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) announces the election of new leadership. Our prayers accompany the newly elected President and Vice President as they embark on a three-year term, committed to advancing the mission of the Church in the United States. #USCCB25 …
Get @reshare_app • @usccb A Prayer for Veterans Day
Lord God, Almighty Father,
creator of mankind and author of peace,
as we are ever mindful of the cost paid for the liberty we possess,
we ask you to bless the members of our armed forces.
Give them courage, hope and strength.
May they ever experience your firm support, gentle love and compassionate healing.
Be their power and protector, leading them from darkness to light.
To you be all glory, honor and praise, now and forever. Amen.
https://ow.ly/X96H50XpV84
Get @reshare_app • @usccb A Prayer for Veterans Day
Lord God, Almighty Father,
creator of mankind and author of peace,
as we are ever mindful of the cost paid for the liberty we possess,
we ask you to bless the members of our armed forces.
Give them courage, hope and strength.
May they ever experience your firm support, gentle love and compassionate healing.
Be their power and protector, leading them from darkness to light.
To you be all glory, honor and praise, now and forever. Amen.
https://ow.ly/X96H50XpV84 …
The Confirmandi of @stdotsdh and @stdotsschool in Drexel Hill (Delaware County) gathered last Wednesday, November 5th, for the Sacrament of Confirmation. It was my joy to be with them alongside their Pastor, Father Murphy and the parish clergy and joined by their loved ones and parish community.
Come, Holy Spirit!
The Confirmandi of @stdotsdh and @stdotsschool in Drexel Hill (Delaware County) gathered last Wednesday, November 5th, for the Sacrament of Confirmation. It was my joy to be with them alongside their Pastor, Father Murphy and the parish clergy and joined by their loved ones and parish community.
Come, Holy Spirit! …
Last Tuesday, November 4th was the Feast of Saint Charles Borromeo, Patron Saint of catechists and priests as well as our seminary`s namesake.
I was blessed to be with Father Christopher Redcay, Rector; my brother priests; faculty; staff; and seminarians of @stcharlessem for the joyous occasion and celebration of the Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders.
For our Archdiocese :
Mr. Joshua Parmet
Mr. Jeremy Puntel
Mr. Brandon Yurcisin
For the Diocese of Greensburg:
Mr. Dale Hyland
Please pray for our seminarians!
Our priests, catechists and seminarians are a gift to the people of the @archphilly and beyond!
Saint Charles Borromeo, pray for us!
Last Tuesday, November 4th was the Feast of Saint Charles Borromeo, Patron Saint of catechists and priests as well as our seminary`s namesake.
I was blessed to be with Father Christopher Redcay, Rector; my brother priests; faculty; staff; and seminarians of @stcharlessem for the joyous occasion and celebration of the Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders.
For our Archdiocese :
Mr. Joshua Parmet
Mr. Jeremy Puntel
Mr. Brandon Yurcisin
For the Diocese of Greensburg:
Mr. Dale Hyland
Please pray for our seminarians!
Our priests, catechists and seminarians are a gift to the people of the @archphilly and beyond!
Saint Charles Borromeo, pray for us! …
Our @phillyomya invites you to join young adults from throughout the @archphilly and beyond, next Saturday, November 15th, for “The Well, Young Adult Conference” at the Sheraton Hotel Downtown Philadelphia, followed by a Vigil Mass at the @cathedralphila.
Learn more and register at: https://phillyyam.org/thewell/
Our @phillyomya invites you to join young adults from throughout the @archphilly and beyond, next Saturday, November 15th, for “The Well, Young Adult Conference” at the Sheraton Hotel Downtown Philadelphia, followed by a Vigil Mass at the @cathedralphila.
Learn more and register at: https://phillyyam.org/thewell/ …
Get @reshare_app • @usccb Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome, “Omnium urbis et orbis Ecclesiarum Mater et Caput” or The Mother of all the Churches of Rome and the world. Let today serve as a reminder of the past and universality of the church.
Get @reshare_app • @usccb Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome, “Omnium urbis et orbis Ecclesiarum Mater et Caput” or The Mother of all the Churches of Rome and the world. Let today serve as a reminder of the past and universality of the church. …
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Next Thursday, November 13th, the Feast of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, ministries of the @archphilly including the Archbishop’s Commission on Racial Healing and the Office for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees will participate in a Eucharistic Procession and Prayer Vigil at the ICE Philadelphia Field Office from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m., which is being organized by “One Church, One Family: Catholic Public Witness for Immigrants.”
More details can be found via the flyer and by visiting 1family.us.
For more about the Office for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees, please visit: https://migrantsandrefugeesphilly.org
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Next Thursday, November 13th, the Feast of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, ministries of the @archphilly including the Archbishop’s Commission on Racial Healing and the Office for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees will participate in a Eucharistic Procession and Prayer Vigil at the ICE Philadelphia Field Office from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m., which is being organized by “One Church, One Family: Catholic Public Witness for Immigrants.”
More details can be found via the flyer and by visiting 1family.us.
For more about the Office for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees, please visit: https://migrantsandrefugeesphilly.org …
We are only two weeks away from this incredible opportunity for the young people of the Church to join our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, for a digital encounter happening at @nfcym @ncycofficial 2025!
Join us for “Pope Leo Live!” Friday, November 21, 2025 at 10:15 a.m. (ET) on @ewtnmedia!
@phillyomy
@archphilly
@aops_schools
#ncyc #ncyc2025 #PopeLeoXIV
We are only two weeks away from this incredible opportunity for the young people of the Church to join our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, for a digital encounter happening at @nfcym @ncycofficial 2025!
Join us for “Pope Leo Live!” Friday, November 21, 2025 at 10:15 a.m. (ET) on @ewtnmedia!
@phillyomy
@archphilly
@aops_schools
#ncyc #ncyc2025 #PopeLeoXIV …