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. as well as the Board of Trustees of the Papal Foundation.
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
- Member of the Board of Trustees of the Papal Foundation
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
Earlier today, it was announced that Andrea Hall (née Mueller) has been appointed the new Director of the @phillyomya effective today.
Andrea previously served as Associate Director of the office for the past two and a half years under the leadership of Father Timothy Tarnacki, OSPPE. I previously shared, that Father Tarnacki recently received a new pastoral assignment from his religious order, the Pauline Fathers, and will soon be serving as a pastor in Florida.
For more on today’s announcement read the piece via @catholicphilly here:
https://catholicphilly.com/2026/07/news/people-and-events/andrea-hall-named-director-of-archdiocesan-office-for-ministry-with-young-adults/
Please join me in prayerfully congratulating Andrea as she undertakes this vital role, fostering missionary discipleship and continuing to help forge meaningful pathways for young adults to encounter Christ, grow in faith, and build authentic community in her continued service to the @archphilly. 🙏🕊️
Earlier today, it was announced that Andrea Hall (née Mueller) has been appointed the new Director of the @phillyomya effective today.
Andrea previously served as Associate Director of the office for the past two and a half years under the leadership of Father Timothy Tarnacki, OSPPE. I previously shared, that Father Tarnacki recently received a new pastoral assignment from his religious order, the Pauline Fathers, and will soon be serving as a pastor in Florida.
For more on today’s announcement read the piece via @catholicphilly here:
https://catholicphilly.com/2026/07/news/people-and-events/andrea-hall-named-director-of-archdiocesan-office-for-ministry-with-young-adults/
Please join me in prayerfully congratulating Andrea as she undertakes this vital role, fostering missionary discipleship and continuing to help forge meaningful pathways for young adults to encounter Christ, grow in faith, and build authentic community in her continued service to the @archphilly. 🙏🕊️ …
The conclusion of the @eucharistic_revival , on Sunday, was an incredibly moving experience we were so blessed to have the Holy Father address the pilgrims gathered and then to have so many, from all walks of life, prayerfully accompany the Most Blessed Sacrament’s journey from saint to saint.
Following the celebration of the Eucharist at the Mother Church of the @archphilly, @cathedralphila, we processed from the @saintkatharinedrexelshrine to the National Shrine of @sjnshrine , our two beloved local Saints.
Learn more via:
@vaticannews
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-07/pope-leo-national-eucharistic-pilgrimage-united-states-america.html
@ewtnmedia
https://www.ewtnnews.com/world/us/national-eucharistic-pilgrimage-2026-ends-in-philadelphia-mission-of-evangelization-continues
So many missionary disciples as witness to Christ in Philadelphia this weekend — God is Good! 🙏❤️
The conclusion of the @eucharistic_revival , on Sunday, was an incredibly moving experience we were so blessed to have the Holy Father address the pilgrims gathered and then to have so many, from all walks of life, prayerfully accompany the Most Blessed Sacrament’s journey from saint to saint.
Following the celebration of the Eucharist at the Mother Church of the @archphilly, @cathedralphila, we processed from the @saintkatharinedrexelshrine to the National Shrine of @sjnshrine , our two beloved local Saints.
Learn more via:
@vaticannews
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-07/pope-leo-national-eucharistic-pilgrimage-united-states-america.html
@ewtnmedia
https://www.ewtnnews.com/world/us/national-eucharistic-pilgrimage-2026-ends-in-philadelphia-mission-of-evangelization-continues
So many missionary disciples as witness to Christ in Philadelphia this weekend — God is Good! 🙏❤️ …
On Friday, July 3rd, it was my great joy to join leadership of the @constitutionctr, civic leaders and local religious leaders as well as my brother bishops and priests including the @augustinianfriars of the @augustinians.stov and @villanovau University; consecrated religious; and lay faithful of the @archphilly in formally celebrating our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, receiving the 2026 Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center on the eve of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America.
During the ceremony, I was blessed to offer a reflection and prayerful gratitude for the Holy Father’s longstanding dedication to advancing liberty for all people throughout the world, particularly the gift of religious freedom. His work as a priest, bishop, Cardinal, and now Shepherd of the Universal Church has always focused on uplifting the inherent dignity of all people and building pathways to peace.
You can read more on this moving celebration and the Holy Father’s remarks via:
@vaticannews
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-07/pope-leo-xiv-awarded-liberty-medal-national-constitution-center.html
@catholicphilly
https://catholicphilly.com/2026/07/news/local-news/pope-leo-xiv-honored-during-liberty-medal-ceremony-in-philadelphia/
🙏🕊️🇺🇸🏅
#America250 #Philadelphia #nationalconstitutioncenter #LibertyMedal #PopeLeoXIV
On Friday, July 3rd, it was my great joy to join leadership of the @constitutionctr, civic leaders and local religious leaders as well as my brother bishops and priests including the @augustinianfriars of the @augustinians.stov and @villanovau University; consecrated religious; and lay faithful of the @archphilly in formally celebrating our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, receiving the 2026 Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center on the eve of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America.
During the ceremony, I was blessed to offer a reflection and prayerful gratitude for the Holy Father’s longstanding dedication to advancing liberty for all people throughout the world, particularly the gift of religious freedom. His work as a priest, bishop, Cardinal, and now Shepherd of the Universal Church has always focused on uplifting the inherent dignity of all people and building pathways to peace.
You can read more on this moving celebration and the Holy Father’s remarks via:
@vaticannews
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-07/pope-leo-xiv-awarded-liberty-medal-national-constitution-center.html
@catholicphilly
https://catholicphilly.com/2026/07/news/local-news/pope-leo-xiv-honored-during-liberty-medal-ceremony-in-philadelphia/
🙏🕊️🇺🇸🏅
#America250 #Philadelphia #nationalconstitutioncenter #LibertyMedal #PopeLeoXIV …
On July 2nd, we joyfully welcomed the Eucharist and the pilgrims that have accompanied the Most Blessed Sacrament, during the 2026 @eucharistic_revival pilgrimage, on this incredible journey, which began in May in St. Augustine, Florida, to the @cathedralphila .
Here are images from the young adult event with our @phillyomya and young adults from across the @archphilly on July 2nd.
What an incredible witness to Christ! ❤️🔥🇺🇸🙏
On July 2nd, we joyfully welcomed the Eucharist and the pilgrims that have accompanied the Most Blessed Sacrament, during the 2026 @eucharistic_revival pilgrimage, on this incredible journey, which began in May in St. Augustine, Florida, to the @cathedralphila .
Here are images from the young adult event with our @phillyomya and young adults from across the @archphilly on July 2nd.
What an incredible witness to Christ! ❤️🔥🇺🇸🙏 …
God bless America!
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!
❤️🔥🙏🇺🇸
#America250 #GodBlessAmerica #CatholicChurchofPhiladelphia #philadelphia
God bless America!
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!
❤️🔥🙏🇺🇸
#America250 #GodBlessAmerica #CatholicChurchofPhiladelphia #philadelphia …
¡Que Dios bendiga a Estados Unidos!
¡Santísimo Corazón de Jesús, ten piedad de nosotros! ¡Inmaculado Corazón de María, ruega por nosotros!
¡Que Dios bendiga a Estados Unidos!
¡Santísimo Corazón de Jesús, ten piedad de nosotros! ¡Inmaculado Corazón de María, ruega por nosotros! …
I personally invite you to join us for the closing Mass and Procession of the @eucharistic_revival Pilgrimage, concluding here in the @archphilly beginning at 11 a.m. at the @cathedralphila. Following Mass participate in the Eucharistic Procession from the @saintkatharinedrexelshrine to the @sjnshrine.
#NationalEucharisticPilgrimage #CatholicChurchofPhiladelphia #America250 #philadelphia
I personally invite you to join us for the closing Mass and Procession of the @eucharistic_revival Pilgrimage, concluding here in the @archphilly beginning at 11 a.m. at the @cathedralphila. Following Mass participate in the Eucharistic Procession from the @saintkatharinedrexelshrine to the @sjnshrine.
#NationalEucharisticPilgrimage #CatholicChurchofPhiladelphia #America250 #philadelphia …
At the 2026 Liberty Medal Ceremony, at the @constitutionctr honoring Pope Leo XIV, Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez offered the following reflections included in images and via @catholicphilly .
(Holy Father image: CNS photo/Cristian Gennari, pool)
At the 2026 Liberty Medal Ceremony, at the @constitutionctr honoring Pope Leo XIV, Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez offered the following reflections included in images and via @catholicphilly .
(Holy Father image: CNS photo/Cristian Gennari, pool) …
We’re waiting with great joy and anticipation as our Holy Father receives this year’s Liberty Medal from the @constitutionctr at 11 am! God bless you, Holy Father!
🇺🇸 🏅 🙏
#America250 #PopeLeo #CatholicChurchofPhiladelphia
We’re waiting with great joy and anticipation as our Holy Father receives this year’s Liberty Medal from the @constitutionctr at 11 am! God bless you, Holy Father!
🇺🇸 🏅 🙏
#America250 #PopeLeo #CatholicChurchofPhiladelphia …
So thrilled to be at the @phillies game tonight with our own Bishop Keith Chylinski and Philly priest and Bishop of @arlingtonchurch ….. Bishop Michael Burbidge!
Let’s Go Phillies ⚾️⚾️⚾️
#ringthebell
So thrilled to be at the @phillies game tonight with our own Bishop Keith Chylinski and Philly priest and Bishop of @arlingtonchurch ….. Bishop Michael Burbidge!
Let’s Go Phillies ⚾️⚾️⚾️
#ringthebell …
Earlier today, via a joint press release from @ewtnmedia , the @eucharistic_revival , and the @archphilly news was shared that our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV will offer a message at the close of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage marking America’s 250th Anniversary.
This message from Pope Leo XIV will be a profound gift to the Church in the United States and to all who seek peace, unity, and hope. The Church of Philadelphia is blessed to host the conclusion of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, on Sunday, July 5, and we share prayerful gratitude that the Holy Father will speak to the faithful gathered here, in Philadelphia and to those joining around the world, via livestream, reminding us that Christ in the Eucharist is the source of our unity and the heart of the Church’s mission.
Learn more about today’s announcement and the Holy Father’s planned message via @catholicphilly
(CNS photo/Pablo Esparza)
Earlier today, via a joint press release from @ewtnmedia , the @eucharistic_revival , and the @archphilly news was shared that our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV will offer a message at the close of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage marking America’s 250th Anniversary.
This message from Pope Leo XIV will be a profound gift to the Church in the United States and to all who seek peace, unity, and hope. The Church of Philadelphia is blessed to host the conclusion of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, on Sunday, July 5, and we share prayerful gratitude that the Holy Father will speak to the faithful gathered here, in Philadelphia and to those joining around the world, via livestream, reminding us that Christ in the Eucharist is the source of our unity and the heart of the Church’s mission.
Learn more about today’s announcement and the Holy Father’s planned message via @catholicphilly
(CNS photo/Pablo Esparza) …
On April 7th, I announced the appointment of Father Eric J. Banecker as Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Catholic Church of Philadelphia. This appointment took affect on June 15th.
@catholicphilly has published a Q&A with Father Banecker, which you can read here:
https://catholicphilly.com/2026/06/news/local-news/father-eric-banecker-discusses-new-role-as-moderator-of-the-curia-missionary-discipleship-in-qa/
May God bless you abundantly!
On April 7th, I announced the appointment of Father Eric J. Banecker as Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Catholic Church of Philadelphia. This appointment took affect on June 15th.
@catholicphilly has published a Q&A with Father Banecker, which you can read here:
https://catholicphilly.com/2026/06/news/local-news/father-eric-banecker-discusses-new-role-as-moderator-of-the-curia-missionary-discipleship-in-qa/
May God bless you abundantly! …