I am delighted to announce Reverend Monsignor Thomas W. Powers has been appointed Rector of the Pontifical North American College in Rome beginning in the new academic year.
Monsignor Powers is eminently qualified for leadership of the College; not simply because of his past distinguished service in Rome and as adjunct spiritual director at the seminary, but also by temperament, openness of mind and heart, a sense of fairness, and a compassionate understanding of the challenges people face in their lives and families. He also brings scholarly knowledge of the international Church and its traditions to his role in leading the education and formation of the next generation of priests.
Those of us who have had the good fortune of working with Monsignor Powers are aware of his integrity, loyalty, courage and intellectual gifts. He has lived his life sacrificially for the Church and its people.
On a personal note, Monsignor Powers has been invaluable to me in his role as Vicar General. I will miss his discernment and judgement, the fraternity he brings to our priests, and his service as a collaborator in our efforts to renew the diocese. Most importantly, I am always inspired by his personal prayerfulness and commitment to leading a life of holiness.
As Monsignor Powers begins this new ministry in service of the Church, may the Lord continue to abundantly bless him!
The previous reflection originally appeared on Bishop Frank Caggiano’s Facebook page. Follow the Bishop for daily reflections and weekly homilies.