Pope Leo XIV on Friday named the Rev. Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez, currently pastor of a predominantly Hispanic church in the Queens borough of New York City, as bishop of Palm Beach, Florida. The diocese, which includes President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate, will see Rodríguez taking on the challenge of leading a community with many migrant families. Rodríguez has expressed both excitement and apprehension about his new role, highlighting a commitment to assist the hardworking priests and people in the diocese. As a staunch advocate for migrants, he has previously criticized immigration policies that have instilled fear in vulnerable communities. The Diocese of Palm Beach encompasses about 260,000 Catholics and aims to be a sanctuary for migrant families. Rodríguez, a Dominican native ordained in 2004, aims to ensure that migrants are treated with dignity and respect as his new responsibilities unfold.
New Bishop of Palm Beach: Advocate for Migrants
Rev. Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez, a champion for immigrant rights, is appointed as the new bishop of Palm Beach, Florida, by Pope Leo XIV.
Pope Leo XIV has appointed Rev. Manuel de Jesús Rodríguez as the new bishop of Palm Beach, Florida. Rodríguez, who has served a predominantly Hispanic church in Queens, New York, is known for his advocacy for migrants. His appointment comes at a time when immigration policies under President Trump have faced criticism from church leaders. Rodriguez aims to support his new diocese of roughly 260,000 Catholics while addressing immigration issues and fostering a welcoming environment for immigrant families.
