As he marked his 75th birthday in November, Bishop Lawrence T. Persico invited the faithful of the Diocese of Erie to join him in prayer for the next bishop who will shepherd the 13 counties of northwestern Pennsylvania. In accordance with canon law, Bishop Persico has submitted his letter of resignation to the Holy Father and will continue serving until Pope Leo XIV appoints his successor.
To guide the diocese through this period of transition, Bishop Persico introduced a Prayer for a New Bishop, which began being offered at Mass after the Communion Rite on the First Sunday of Advent. The prayer will continue each Sunday throughout Advent and in the months ahead, and the faithful are encouraged to include it during meetings and gatherings.
“Turning 75 gives every bishop an opportunity for deep reflection,” Bishop Persico said. “I am grateful for the privilege of serving the people of this diocese for the past 13 years. As we enter this time of transition, I ask the faithful to join me in praying for the one whom the Holy Father will send. May the Holy Spirit guide Pope Leo in choosing a shepherd who will lead with wisdom, compassion and a true heart for Christ.”
After submitting his resignation, a bishop continues his full duties until a successor is named. Ministries, sacraments, and diocesan operations proceed as usual under his leadership. Meanwhile, a confidential and deliberate process begins both locally and in Rome to identify the next bishop. The apostolic nuncio, Cardinal Christophe Pierre, oversees consultations and compiles a list of candidates based on the needs of the diocese and the suitability of each candidate. This report is then submitted to the Vatican, where a prayerful discernment process takes place behind the scenes.
As the Diocese of Erie prepares for this transition, it reflects on Bishop Persico’s 13 years of leadership marked by healing, transparency, and pastoral care. He became a national voice during the 2018 statewide grand jury report, advocating for honesty and accountability as essential to rebuilding trust. His tenure strengthened child protection measures, advanced long-term planning for parishes and schools, and promoted Eucharistic renewal and missionary discipleship.
In a recent conversation with Faith magazine, Bishop Persico shared candid reflections on the joys and challenges of his episcopacy, underscoring the enduring grace of God throughout his ministry. His steady presence and dedication remain a source of gratitude as the diocese looks toward its next chapter.
