Famed Father Robert Barron Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles

By Hayli Harding --
27 Jul 2015 --

By Frank Licorice [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Father Barron is one of the three new auxiliary bishops named for Los Angeles.

Perhaps best known for his works at Word on Fire Catholic Ministries, which he founded, Father Robert Barron was announced as one of the three new auxiliary bishops in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The appointment came as a great surprise, according to the statement Father Barron released. Among Barron’s many accomplishments, he hosts CATHOLICISM, a film series, and regularly releases new sermons, videos and content on YouTube. In addition, he has served as the President of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake since 2012. In a statement that Father Barron released on July 21, he said it is “with a humble and joyful heart” that he accepts the appointment from Pope Francis.

Three New Auxiliary Bishops for LA

Father Barron says that his new appointment will not affect Word on Fire. He intends to continue releasing articles, videos and more through the administration and staff of Father Steve Grunow. He is planning on releasing new projects, including The Mystery of God, which is a film/study program based around God and Atheism, and CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players. In addition, he spoke on the late Cardinal Francis George, who served Chicago’s diocese since 1997 to 2014. His successor, Archbishop Blase Cupich, said that Barron brought much pride to their church, adding that he knew “that he will continue to make us proud as he begins his new ministry on the West Coast”.

So very, very happy for you at this NEW call from our Lord! @FrRobertBarron
— Darleen Cordero (@darleencordero) July 26, 2015

The other two new bishops are Msgrs. Joseph Brennan and David O’Connell. O’Connell was ordained in 1979 and made ending the violence in LA his goal. He is a member of the pastoral committee for immigration. Born in Ireland, he has said that being a pastor has been the “greatest joy of my life”. Brennan was ordained in 1980, and has served as the Moderator of the Curia in LA’s archdiocese. He feels “blessed to be able to continue to serve in such a beautiful community”.