In brief
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.
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.
