Pope Francis Names New Bishop for the Diocese of Norwich
Reverend Monsignor Richard F. Reidy Appointed as Sixth Bishop
NORWICH, CT – The Diocese of Norwich joyfully welcomes the appointment of Bishop-elect Richard F. Reidy as its sixth bishop. Pope Francis made the official announcement today at noon in Rome (6:00 a.m. Eastern Time).
Bishop-elect Reidy comes to Norwich from the Diocese of Worcester, Massachusetts, where he has served faithfully in various pastoral and administrative roles, most recently as Vicar General. His extensive experience in both spiritual leadership and diocesan administration makes him well-equipped to shepherd the faithful of Eastern Connecticut.
Archbishop Christopher J. Coyne, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Norwich, expressed his gratitude for the Holy Father’s appointment, stating:
"I am very grateful to the Holy Father for this appointment and look forward to assisting the Bishop-elect as he becomes acclimated to Eastern Connecticut. I am confident that he will be an excellent shepherd for the people of the Diocese."
The Diocese of Norwich asks for prayers for Bishop-elect Reidy as he prepares to embrace this new chapter of his ministry.
About Bishop-elect Reidy
Born on May 30, 1958, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Richard F. Reidy grew up in Immaculate Conception Parish. Before entering the priesthood, he practiced law at Mirick, O’Connell, DeMallie & Lougee from 1983 to 1990. Answering God’s call to the priesthood, he studied at St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore and continued his theological education in Rome, earning degrees in sacred theology and spirituality.
Ordained a priest on June 25, 1994, Bishop-elect Reidy served as associate pastor of St. Peter Parish in Worcester before becoming rector of St. Paul Cathedral in 1995. He later pursued advanced studies in canon law, earning a licentiate from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. In 2013, he was appointed Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Diocese of Worcester, roles in which he has faithfully served until now.
Bishop-elect Reidy’s installation Mass will held on April 29 at 2PM at St. Patrick Cathedral in Norwich. At this time, further details regarding the installation are still being planned.
About the Diocese of Norwich
Established in 1953, the Diocese of Norwich serves the Catholic faithful across Middlesex, New London, Tolland, and Windham counties in Connecticut, as well as Fisher’s Island, New York.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Wayne Gignac
Director of Communications, Diocese of Norwich
Email: wgignac@norwichdiocese.net