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
Last night, the annual Encounter Fundraiser Dinner, in support of the important outreach work done by the missionaries of @christinthecity_philly serving here in the @archphilly, was held in Blue Bell.
We are incredibly blessed to have these young adult missionary disciples encountering those most in need throughout our region through their love, fervent prayer, and fellowship. Their devotion to the Lord and compassionate outreach in His name is an inspiring example to us all. I’m grateful to all who showed support for this vital ministry.
Learn more at www.christinthecity.org.
Last night, the annual Encounter Fundraiser Dinner, in support of the important outreach work done by the missionaries of @christinthecity_philly serving here in the @archphilly, was held in Blue Bell.
We are incredibly blessed to have these young adult missionary disciples encountering those most in need throughout our region through their love, fervent prayer, and fellowship. Their devotion to the Lord and compassionate outreach in His name is an inspiring example to us all. I’m grateful to all who showed support for this vital ministry.
Learn more at www.christinthecity.org. …
Earlier this week I had the joy of joining the staff and volunteers of our five Missionary Hubs, leadership of the @archphilly ’s Strategy Office, and representatives of @catholicleadershipinstitute for a Hub Retreat.
These Missionary Disciples are following the example of Jesus Christ as they encounter our brothers and sisters wherever they are and I’m deeply proud of the work they’ve begun.
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I want you to know you are not alone. You will always have a home in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia. Welcome Home! 🕊️🙏
Learn more at TrustandHope.org
Earlier this week I had the joy of joining the staff and volunteers of our five Missionary Hubs, leadership of the @archphilly ’s Strategy Office, and representatives of @catholicleadershipinstitute for a Hub Retreat.
These Missionary Disciples are following the example of Jesus Christ as they encounter our brothers and sisters wherever they are and I’m deeply proud of the work they’ve begun.
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I want you to know you are not alone. You will always have a home in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia. Welcome Home! 🕊️🙏
Learn more at TrustandHope.org …
On Wednesday, I was blessed, alongside senior leadership of the Office of Catholic Education and administrators of the @ccharitiesphila (CCoP), to join hundreds of students representing high schools, elementary schools, and schools of special education from across the @archphilly as they packaged 1,500 bags to benefit CCoP’s Out of School Time Programs (OST) at @lccrusaders.
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It was an incredible display of missionary discipleship and I’m prayerfully grateful to all who made this community service event a success! 👏❤️🙏
On Wednesday, I was blessed, alongside senior leadership of the Office of Catholic Education and administrators of the @ccharitiesphila (CCoP), to join hundreds of students representing high schools, elementary schools, and schools of special education from across the @archphilly as they packaged 1,500 bags to benefit CCoP’s Out of School Time Programs (OST) at @lccrusaders.
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It was an incredible display of missionary discipleship and I’m prayerfully grateful to all who made this community service event a success! 👏❤️🙏 …
Last night, I had the joy of spending time in prayer with our @cultureproject_phl missionaries here in Catholic Church of Philadelphia along with Father DeLacy and Father Taglianetti.
We also shared fellowship with a wonderful dinner to show gratitude for their missionary work among our young people in the Church of Philadelphia.
These missionaries have spent the year visiting our high schools, elementary schools, and parish and young adult communities spreading the good news of living life with dignity and virtue. We are blessed to have these vibrant, dynamic young adult missionaries, whose hearts are on fire for the Lord and in service to his Church, in our midst. 🕊️🙏
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May God bless their missionary hearts! ❤️
Learn more about @thecultureprojectintl ministry at: https://thecultureproject.org.
Last night, I had the joy of spending time in prayer with our @cultureproject_phl missionaries here in Catholic Church of Philadelphia along with Father DeLacy and Father Taglianetti.
We also shared fellowship with a wonderful dinner to show gratitude for their missionary work among our young people in the Church of Philadelphia.
These missionaries have spent the year visiting our high schools, elementary schools, and parish and young adult communities spreading the good news of living life with dignity and virtue. We are blessed to have these vibrant, dynamic young adult missionaries, whose hearts are on fire for the Lord and in service to his Church, in our midst. 🕊️🙏
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.
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May God bless their missionary hearts! ❤️
Learn more about @thecultureprojectintl ministry at: https://thecultureproject.org. …
Pope Leo XIV has consistently spoken with clarity and compassion with calls for peaceful resolutions to complex challenges in a manner that upholds the sanctity and dignity of all human life as our world continues to be afflicted with division, conflict, and suffering. Both the Holy Father and his message deserve respect and admiration.
As a pastoral and world leader, Pope Leo XIV is a gift for Catholics and all people of good will. His message powerfully reflects the truth of the Gospel.
While many expect political messages from the Vicar of Christ, it is his role to preach the Gospel of peace and the role of political leaders to secure the most efficient end to world conflict and division.
His continued calls for peace, hope, diplomacy, and the conversion of hearts should be heeded by all. The Church of Philadelphia stands by the Holy Father as he continues to call and pray for world peace as he has done since the beginning of his pontificate.
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia
Pope Leo XIV has consistently spoken with clarity and compassion with calls for peaceful resolutions to complex challenges in a manner that upholds the sanctity and dignity of all human life as our world continues to be afflicted with division, conflict, and suffering. Both the Holy Father and his message deserve respect and admiration.
As a pastoral and world leader, Pope Leo XIV is a gift for Catholics and all people of good will. His message powerfully reflects the truth of the Gospel.
While many expect political messages from the Vicar of Christ, it is his role to preach the Gospel of peace and the role of political leaders to secure the most efficient end to world conflict and division.
His continued calls for peace, hope, diplomacy, and the conversion of hearts should be heeded by all. The Church of Philadelphia stands by the Holy Father as he continues to call and pray for world peace as he has done since the beginning of his pontificate.
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia …
I invite you to participate in the annual Celebration of the Eucharist Honoring the Gifts of Persons with Disabilities, the Deaf Community, family, friends, and caregivers in the @archphilly . This annual event is sponsored by our @opdarchphilly and this year will be held on Sunday, April 19th at 3:00 pm at @cathedralphila.
Accessible parking is available. Learn more at opdarchphilly.org
I invite you to participate in the annual Celebration of the Eucharist Honoring the Gifts of Persons with Disabilities, the Deaf Community, family, friends, and caregivers in the @archphilly . This annual event is sponsored by our @opdarchphilly and this year will be held on Sunday, April 19th at 3:00 pm at @cathedralphila.
Accessible parking is available. Learn more at opdarchphilly.org …
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! …