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
On the first Saturday and Sunday of Lent, this past weekend, the Rite of Election of Catechumens and Call to Continuing Conversion of Candidates was held at the Mother Church of the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, the @cathedralphila. It was my great joy to preside over and witness the more than 1200 of our brothers and sisters marking this final period of intense prayer and preparation! They will be welcomed into full communion in the Church at the Easter Vigil, on Holy Saturday, in parishes throughout our 5 county region.
Please continue to pray for them during this time!
#Lent #Catholic #CatholicChurchofPhila #TrustandHope #riteofelection
On the first Saturday and Sunday of Lent, this past weekend, the Rite of Election of Catechumens and Call to Continuing Conversion of Candidates was held at the Mother Church of the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, the @cathedralphila. It was my great joy to preside over and witness the more than 1200 of our brothers and sisters marking this final period of intense prayer and preparation! They will be welcomed into full communion in the Church at the Easter Vigil, on Holy Saturday, in parishes throughout our 5 county region.
Please continue to pray for them during this time!
#Lent #Catholic #CatholicChurchofPhila #TrustandHope #riteofelection …
This weekend I was overjoyed to preside at the Rite of Election of Catechumens and Call to Continuing Conversion of Candidates. This year, we have over 1200 from all over the Catholic Church of Philadelphia gathered at @cathedralphila — what a blessing 🕊️🙏!
Photos to follow from this weekend’s Rite of Elections.
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#RiteofElection #Catechumen #candidate #CatholicChurchofPhila #lent
This weekend I was overjoyed to preside at the Rite of Election of Catechumens and Call to Continuing Conversion of Candidates. This year, we have over 1200 from all over the Catholic Church of Philadelphia gathered at @cathedralphila — what a blessing 🕊️🙏!
Photos to follow from this weekend’s Rite of Elections.
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#RiteofElection #Catechumen #candidate #CatholicChurchofPhila #lent …
On Ash Wednesday at our Mother Church, the @cathedralphila, Philadelphia, faithful from across the Catholic Church of Philadelphia received blessed ashes at Mass to mark the beginning of Lent.
Please pray for me as I continue to pray for you during this Holy Season of Lent!
On Ash Wednesday at our Mother Church, the @cathedralphila, Philadelphia, faithful from across the Catholic Church of Philadelphia received blessed ashes at Mass to mark the beginning of Lent.
Please pray for me as I continue to pray for you during this Holy Season of Lent! …
Archbishop Paul Coakley, president of the @usccb s, calls for prayer for peace on the part of all the members of the Church as our country experiences unrest especially surrounding issues of migration.
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, I invite you to join me in the celebration of the Holy Mass, at 12:05 pm, at the Mother Church of the @archphilly , the @cathedralphila, for the intention of peace throughout the country. If you can’t attend in person I invite you to prayerfully participate via live stream on my Facebook page or at vimeo.com/event/5711319.
The Holy Mass will be followed by a Holy Hour for peace. The Most Blessed Sacrament will remain Exposed in the Cathedral until 5pm on Tuesday, February 24th and Benediction will take place at 5pm. 🙏🕊️
Archbishop Paul Coakley, president of the @usccb s, calls for prayer for peace on the part of all the members of the Church as our country experiences unrest especially surrounding issues of migration.
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, I invite you to join me in the celebration of the Holy Mass, at 12:05 pm, at the Mother Church of the @archphilly , the @cathedralphila, for the intention of peace throughout the country. If you can’t attend in person I invite you to prayerfully participate via live stream on my Facebook page or at vimeo.com/event/5711319.
The Holy Mass will be followed by a Holy Hour for peace. The Most Blessed Sacrament will remain Exposed in the Cathedral until 5pm on Tuesday, February 24th and Benediction will take place at 5pm. 🙏🕊️ …
What a joy it was for me to celebrate Mass and spend time with the @gwynedd_mercy_academy_es community, on Tuesday morning.
These visits to schools, parishes, and ministries throughout the Catholic Church of Philadelphia give me such hope.
It was wonderful to hear from the students what makes their school special to them. I also had the opportunity to share prayerful gratitude to the faculty, staff, and volunteers for accompanying these young hearts and minds in their education and holistic formation as young missionary disciples for the world around them!
What a joy it was for me to celebrate Mass and spend time with the @gwynedd_mercy_academy_es community, on Tuesday morning.
These visits to schools, parishes, and ministries throughout the Catholic Church of Philadelphia give me such hope.
It was wonderful to hear from the students what makes their school special to them. I also had the opportunity to share prayerful gratitude to the faculty, staff, and volunteers for accompanying these young hearts and minds in their education and holistic formation as young missionary disciples for the world around them! …
On this blessed Ash Wednesday, which also happens to mark the sixth anniversary of my installation as the Archbishop of the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, I want to thank you for your continued prayers and support. I’m so blessed to be with you.
Never underestimate the power of the Spirit of God working in us, through us, and despite us. May God bless you! 🕊️❤️
On this blessed Ash Wednesday, which also happens to mark the sixth anniversary of my installation as the Archbishop of the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, I want to thank you for your continued prayers and support. I’m so blessed to be with you.
Never underestimate the power of the Spirit of God working in us, through us, and despite us. May God bless you! 🕊️❤️ …
Today, the clergy, consecrated religious and lay faithful of the Catholic Church of Philadelphia join the universal Church on a 40-day Lenten journey in which we are encouraged to participate in acts of fasting, good works, and prayer throughout Lent and in spiritual preparation for the celebration of the Paschal Mystery (the passion, death, resurrection, and ascension of our Lord)!
Learn more and find the link to the Holy Father’s full 2026 Lenten Message via @catholicphilly 🔗 in bio
It is my joy to walk this Lenten journey with you as we grow together in our missionary discipleship for Christ and His Church. Please pray for me and be assured of my prayers for you each day. 🕊️🙏
#catholicchurchofphila #AshWednesday #lent #catholic
Today, the clergy, consecrated religious and lay faithful of the Catholic Church of Philadelphia join the universal Church on a 40-day Lenten journey in which we are encouraged to participate in acts of fasting, good works, and prayer throughout Lent and in spiritual preparation for the celebration of the Paschal Mystery (the passion, death, resurrection, and ascension of our Lord)!
Learn more and find the link to the Holy Father’s full 2026 Lenten Message via @catholicphilly 🔗 in bio
It is my joy to walk this Lenten journey with you as we grow together in our missionary discipleship for Christ and His Church. Please pray for me and be assured of my prayers for you each day. 🕊️🙏
#catholicchurchofphila #AshWednesday #lent #catholic …
On Sunday evening, I was blessed to attend and be among several recipients at the @phillyclergy’s 2026 MLK Honor the Dreamer Award at the Baptist Worship Center in Philadelphia hosted by Archbishop Mary Floyd Palmer, Presiding Prelate of the Philadelphia Council of Clergy and Rev. Dr. Michael Faulkner, Executive Director for the Philadelphia Council of Clergy. It was a beautiful evening in celebration of the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.
On Sunday evening, I was blessed to attend and be among several recipients at the @phillyclergy’s 2026 MLK Honor the Dreamer Award at the Baptist Worship Center in Philadelphia hosted by Archbishop Mary Floyd Palmer, Presiding Prelate of the Philadelphia Council of Clergy and Rev. Dr. Michael Faulkner, Executive Director for the Philadelphia Council of Clergy. It was a beautiful evening in celebration of the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. …
Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Asian Catholic Community,
I extend warm greetings and prayerful best wishes as you mark the beginning of the Lunar New Year. This joyous occasion marks the Year of the Horse, symbolizing intense forward momentum toward transformation.
This particular Lunar New Year comes at a time of renewal in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, as we embrace the call to Missionary Discipleship as one part of the Trust and Hope initiative. May the fifteen days of this Lunar New Year, culminating in the annual Lantern Festival, inspire us all to seek constant renewal of our hearts in order to be a beacon of Christ’s compassionate love to those we encounter. As you celebrate the Lunar New Year, may your lives be filled with joy and prosperity.
This celebration is a moment for all of us to praise God in thanksgiving for the great gift and rich heritage of the Asian community in our local Church and throughout the world.
May God bless you abundantly always!
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia
Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Asian Catholic Community,
I extend warm greetings and prayerful best wishes as you mark the beginning of the Lunar New Year. This joyous occasion marks the Year of the Horse, symbolizing intense forward momentum toward transformation.
This particular Lunar New Year comes at a time of renewal in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, as we embrace the call to Missionary Discipleship as one part of the Trust and Hope initiative. May the fifteen days of this Lunar New Year, culminating in the annual Lantern Festival, inspire us all to seek constant renewal of our hearts in order to be a beacon of Christ’s compassionate love to those we encounter. As you celebrate the Lunar New Year, may your lives be filled with joy and prosperity.
This celebration is a moment for all of us to praise God in thanksgiving for the great gift and rich heritage of the Asian community in our local Church and throughout the world.
May God bless you abundantly always!
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia …
Get @reshare_app • @usccb A Prayer for Civic Leaders
God our Father,
You guide everything in wisdom and love.
Accept the prayers we offer for our nation.
In your goodness,
watch over those in authority
so that people everywhere
may enjoy freedom, security and peace.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Get @reshare_app • @usccb A Prayer for Civic Leaders
God our Father,
You guide everything in wisdom and love.
Accept the prayers we offer for our nation.
In your goodness,
watch over those in authority
so that people everywhere
may enjoy freedom, security and peace.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen. …
Dear Friends of the Muslim Faith Tradition,
Together with the people of the Catholic Church in Philadelphia, I send warm greetings of friendship as you prepare to mark the observance of Ramadan.
Last year, Pope Leo XIV commended the “growing commitment to dialogue and fraternity” among the Catholic and Muslim communities. Our embrace is “fostered by esteem for these our brothers and sisters who ‘worship God, who is one, living and subsistent, merciful and almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth, who has also spoken to humanity’ (Nostra Aetate, 3). This approach, based on mutual respect and freedom of conscience, is a solid foundation for building bridges between our communities.”
I share this vision of mutual deep respect and friendship between Christians and Muslims, rooted in hopes for the divine gift of peace in a time when conflict around the world results in suffering, death, and devastation for many people.
May your month-long vigil of prayer, fasting, and works of mercy be fruitful. May you share compassionate love with all those you encounter as instruments of peace.
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia
Dear Friends of the Muslim Faith Tradition,
Together with the people of the Catholic Church in Philadelphia, I send warm greetings of friendship as you prepare to mark the observance of Ramadan.
Last year, Pope Leo XIV commended the “growing commitment to dialogue and fraternity” among the Catholic and Muslim communities. Our embrace is “fostered by esteem for these our brothers and sisters who ‘worship God, who is one, living and subsistent, merciful and almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth, who has also spoken to humanity’ (Nostra Aetate, 3). This approach, based on mutual respect and freedom of conscience, is a solid foundation for building bridges between our communities.”
I share this vision of mutual deep respect and friendship between Christians and Muslims, rooted in hopes for the divine gift of peace in a time when conflict around the world results in suffering, death, and devastation for many people.
May your month-long vigil of prayer, fasting, and works of mercy be fruitful. May you share compassionate love with all those you encounter as instruments of peace.
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia …
The monthly meeting of the Religious Leaders Council of Philadelphia was held this morning at our Pastoral Center in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia. This year marks two decades of the formation of the council, which works to build relationships of mutual support, offer a moral and spiritual voice in the region, and identify issues of local concern for dialogue. I’m blessed to serve as a co-convener.
Learn more at: interfaithphiladelphia.org/council
The monthly meeting of the Religious Leaders Council of Philadelphia was held this morning at our Pastoral Center in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia. This year marks two decades of the formation of the council, which works to build relationships of mutual support, offer a moral and spiritual voice in the region, and identify issues of local concern for dialogue. I’m blessed to serve as a co-convener.
Learn more at: interfaithphiladelphia.org/council …