Bishop Richard Henning named new archbishop of Boston
Bishop Richard Henning named new archbishop of Boston
In an important selection for the Catholic Church in the United States, Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Richard G. Henning of Providence, Rhode Island, as the forthcoming archbishop of Boston. Archbishop-designate Henning, who assumed the role of the ninth bishop of Providence on May 1, 2023, will take over from Cardinal Seán Patrick O’Malley, OFM Cap., who has been the archbishop of Boston since 2003. The Vatican made the announcement regarding the appointment today.
A heritage of optimism and rejuvenation
Archbishop Henning, 59, offers extensive experience and a strong dedication to pastoral work in his new position. He has received widespread acclaim for his initiatives to connect with various communities and his commitment to nurturing a sense of hope and renewal in the Church. His selection arrives as the Archdiocese of Boston persists in addressing the clerical sexual abuse crisis that threw the diocese into turmoil over two decades ago.
According to the Boston GlobeArchbishop Henning takes over a secure environment in Boston. The archdiocese faced a $15 million shortfall in 2003, at the time Cardinal O’Malley assumed leadership. By 2023, the diocese reported a $13 million excess. Cardinal O’Malley submitted his resignation to Pope Francis in 2019, as mandated by canon law, upon celebrating his 75th birthday. Nevertheless, at the Holy Father’s request, Cardinal O’Malley, now 80, has remained in charge of the archdiocese.
The Archdiocese of Boston ranks among the earliest dioceses in the United States. Established in 1808, it provides service to 1.8 million Catholics spread throughout 144 cities and towns in eastern Massachusetts, making it the fourth largest archdiocese in the country.
Brief period in Providence
Sources inform Our Sunday Visitor that the clergy and congregation of Providence are disheartened by Bishop Henning’s departure. As per these sources, Archbishop Henning left a notably favorable impact during his brief time in office.
Archbishop Henning said in a statement, “In the past two years, you might have observed that I often have thoughts to share. I am sorry to say that in this case, I do not believe I can articulate my sadness about departing from the Church of Providence.” The archbishop conveyed his appreciation for the heartfelt reception he experienced in Providence. “Your strength in overcoming difficulties, your dedication to family and community, and your unwavering faith in Jesus have inspired me and provided valuable lessons. I will always be grateful to you,” he remarked.
Unexpectedly, Archbishop Henning’s short tenure in Providence reflects that of his predecessor’s time in his previous diocese. Assigned as bishop of Palm Beach, Florida, on September 3, 2002, Cardinal O’Malley was appointed archbishop of Boston by Pope St. John Paul II on July 1, 2003, when he took over from Cardinal Bernard Law.
Upon his reaching Providence, at a welcome Mass on January 26, 2023, soon after his designation as co-adjutor bishop, Archbishop Henning commented on the state motto of Rhode Island. “To observe that age-old Christian emblem, the anchor, representing hope, on a state flag, and not merely the emblem itself but the word prominently displayed right there on that flag,” he remarked. “In my prayers, I contemplated, ‘I am going to reside in the land of hope.’” However, that stay was brief.
“I believe that when it comes to vision, engaging in active listening is crucial,” Archbishop Henning stated. during an interview on WPRI 12’s Newsmakers. “This entire year for me has centered more on listening to others about their experiences rather than sharing my solutions with them.”
Long Island local travels upward
Born in 1964 in Rockville Centre, New York, Archbishop Henning is the eldest of five siblings. He grew up in Valley Stream and completed his initial sacraments at Holy Name of Mary Parish, where he also went to elementary school. His developmental years were shaped by the Marianists at Chaminade High School, who had a meaningful impact on his faith and dedication to education.
Upon finishing his undergraduate education at St. John’s University in Queens, New York, Archbishop Henning prepared for the priesthood at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington, New York, and was ordained in 1992. He initially worked as an associate pastor at the Church of St. Peter of Alcantara in Port Washington, where he played a significant role in pastoral activities and aided the Spanish-speaking community. He subsequently obtained a doctorate from the University of St. Thomas Aquinas (the Angelicum) in Rome, Italy, focusing on sacred scripture. Alongside English and Spanish, Archbishop Henning is fluent in Italian and can comprehend French, Greek, and Hebrew. After completing his studies, he became a member of the faculty at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception, where he lectured on Scripture for more than ten years.
Prior to his assignment to Providence, Archbishop Henning acted as an auxiliary bishop in the Diocese of Rockville Centre, New York. He was consecrated as an auxiliary bishop on July 24, 2018, at St. Agnes Cathedral in Rockville Centre, by Bishop John O. Barres, with Bishops William Murphy and Robert Brennan serving as co-consecrators.
