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
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 …
It is my joy to share a link to video invitation via @ewtnmedia for the upcoming historical Pope Leo XIV Digital Visit at @nfcym’s @ncycofficial 2025 with the youth of the World. Live coverage begins Friday, November 21st at 10:15AM ET.
Our @phillyomy as well as young people representing our Parishes in the @archphilly and @aops_schools will participate in-person at NCYC in Indianapolis and via stream throughout the Philadelphia region for this incredible digital encounter!
Watch the invitation via link in my bio
It is my joy to share a link to video invitation via @ewtnmedia for the upcoming historical Pope Leo XIV Digital Visit at @nfcym’s @ncycofficial 2025 with the youth of the World. Live coverage begins Friday, November 21st at 10:15AM ET.
Our @phillyomy as well as young people representing our Parishes in the @archphilly and @aops_schools will participate in-person at NCYC in Indianapolis and via stream throughout the Philadelphia region for this incredible digital encounter!
Watch the invitation via link in my bio …
Get @reshare_app • @ncycofficial To best prepare for the Digital Encounter with Pope Leo XIV, join us for a pre-event gathering on Tuesday, November 11!
There will be some great guests joining in, and you won’t want to miss it! One more guest will be announced soon, who could it be?
Visit the link in bio to register for the digital experience.
#PopeLeoAtNCYC #NCYC #25NCYC
Get @reshare_app • @ncycofficial To best prepare for the Digital Encounter with Pope Leo XIV, join us for a pre-event gathering on Tuesday, November 11!
There will be some great guests joining in, and you won’t want to miss it! One more guest will be announced soon, who could it be?
Visit the link in bio to register for the digital experience.
#PopeLeoAtNCYC #NCYC #25NCYC …
I was blessed to be at St. Hugh of Cluny Church, a worship site of the St. Veronica Parish, in the Franklinville section of North Philadelphia, community alongside Fr. Roberto Gurrola, I.V.E., Pastor, clergy, consecrated religious, and the faithful of the parish community, on Sunday, the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls), for the celebration of the Eucharist. It was wonderful to see so many hearts on fire for the Lord including the youth and young adults of the parish.
Saint Hugh of Cluny and Saint Veronica, pray for us!
I was blessed to be at St. Hugh of Cluny Church, a worship site of the St. Veronica Parish, in the Franklinville section of North Philadelphia, community alongside Fr. Roberto Gurrola, I.V.E., Pastor, clergy, consecrated religious, and the faithful of the parish community, on Sunday, the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls), for the celebration of the Eucharist. It was wonderful to see so many hearts on fire for the Lord including the youth and young adults of the parish.
Saint Hugh of Cluny and Saint Veronica, pray for us! …
Yesterday I had the honor of meeting with His Eminence, Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisw, Archbishop Emeritus of the @archidiecezja_krakowska, Poland and longtime secretary to St. John Paul II during his tenure as Archbishop of Bishop of Krakow and his entire papacy until his passing.
I remember him so well during the five times that I was in the presence of St. John Paul II in his trips to the United States, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Blessing to his Eminence with a grateful heart for his gracious visit to the @archphilly !
Yesterday I had the honor of meeting with His Eminence, Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisw, Archbishop Emeritus of the @archidiecezja_krakowska, Poland and longtime secretary to St. John Paul II during his tenure as Archbishop of Bishop of Krakow and his entire papacy until his passing.
I remember him so well during the five times that I was in the presence of St. John Paul II in his trips to the United States, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Blessing to his Eminence with a grateful heart for his gracious visit to the @archphilly ! …
This past Saturday, All Saints Day, our @phillyomya held its Missionary Mass at @cathedralphila, followed by dinner. It was my great joy to be with these incredible young adult missionary disciples for the Celebration of the Eucharist, faith sharing and fellowship. Several of our young adult missionary ministries were present including: the @cultureproject_phl; @christinthecity_philly; @focuscatholic Missionaries; @missionyouthphilly Youth; Young Catholic Professional, Philly; and the Young Adult Missionary Disciples Initiative (YAMDI).
We are so blessed to have these missionary disciples serving the Church and her people, especially our young people, throughout the region! May God continue to bless them and their vital service abundantly!
This past Saturday, All Saints Day, our @phillyomya held its Missionary Mass at @cathedralphila, followed by dinner. It was my great joy to be with these incredible young adult missionary disciples for the Celebration of the Eucharist, faith sharing and fellowship. Several of our young adult missionary ministries were present including: the @cultureproject_phl; @christinthecity_philly; @focuscatholic Missionaries; @missionyouthphilly Youth; Young Catholic Professional, Philly; and the Young Adult Missionary Disciples Initiative (YAMDI).
We are so blessed to have these missionary disciples serving the Church and her people, especially our young people, throughout the region! May God continue to bless them and their vital service abundantly! …