New Leader of Brazil's Bishops Takes Post

Friday, 11 May 2007 14:19

Reiterates Obedience to Pope

INAIATUBA, Brazil, MAY 10, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The new president of Brazil's episcopal conference said in the installment ceremony that he trusts in God's grace since the faithful in that country expect much from their pastors.

"It is with fear and trepidation that I take on this noble and difficult mission as president" of the episcopal conference, said Bishop Geraldo Lyrio Rocha. "I accepted this great responsibility that is now laid upon my weak shoulders because I trust in God's grace."

Bishop Lyrio, 65, will take on the archdiocese of Mariana and be elevated to archbishop. His post as president of Brazil's episcopal conference also includes the vice presidency of the Latin American bishops' council.

"The responsibility is great. The challenges are ever greater. The mission is difficult," he said. "The Church in Brazil expects much from its pastors."

During his speech, the new president reaffirmed his decision to work hard so that the bishops' conference can fulfill its mission.

He reaffirmed his obedience to the Holy Father: "With affection and veneration, we express our obedience and fidelity to the Successor of Peter, and our sincere promise to walk always in full communion with the Apostolic See and the College of Bishops."

At the end of his discourse, Bishop Lyrio thanked Cardinal Geraldo Majella Agnelo, the previous president who ended his four-year term. He then invoked God's blessing and the intercession of Our Lady of Aparecida for the work that he will carry out as president of the conference.

Code: ZE07051006

Date: 2007-05-10