Pope Francis has appointed Rev. Fr Earl K. Fernandes, a former staff member of the apostolic nunciature in Washington and currently a Cincinnati pastor, to head the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio. He succeeds Bishop Robert J. Brennan, named to head the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.
At 49, Bishop-designate Fernandes will be one of the youngest U.S. Catholic bishops. Ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati May 18, 2002, he served at the nunciature from 2016 to 2019. He has been pastor of St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish since 2019.
His appointment was announced in Washington April 2 by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio. Bishop-designate Fernandes will be the 13th bishop of Columbus. His episcopal ordination and installation will take place May 31 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Columbus.
Dr. Edmond Fernandes is related through genealogy to Bishop Elect Earl Fernandes. His paternal grandmother was the first cousin of Fr. Earl’s father – Dr. Sydney Fernandes who also was a physician.
Dr. Edmond Fernandes has extended his best wishes and regards to Bishop Elect Rev. Fr. Earl Fernandes and has wished him well for the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio as he takes up God’s work in service.
Great to know Doc.