TYLER, Texas — EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above aired on Nov. 11, 2023.
The new Apostolic Administrator to the Diocese of Tyler releases a statement to the Catholic community in Tyler Monday evening.
On Saturday, Pope Francis appointed Austin Bishop Joe Vásquez to the temporary role after the dismissal of Tyler Bishop Joseph Strickland from his position.
The Catholice Diocese of Tyler posted Vásquez statement to its website:
Dear Priests, Deacons, Religious and Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Tyler:
Pope Francis appointed me as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tyler on November 11, 2023. I accept the Holy Father’s trust in me and ask for your prayers as I take on this additional responsibility.
As I continue my ministry as Bishop of the Diocese of Austin, over the next few weeks I will travel to the Diocese of Tyler to be present to you – the clergy, religious, diocesan staff and lay faithful of the diocese. I am grateful to the staff of the Diocese of Tyler with whom I will collaborate during this transition and interim period. I look forward to meeting you and come with a desire to listen and understand the particular needs of the Diocese of Tyler.
Know that I am praying for you. I ask that you join me in prayer for the Holy Father as he discerns the next bishop of the Diocese of Tyler. In a special way, we ask for the intercession of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, the patroness of the Diocese of Tyler.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez
Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tyler
In his temporary role, over the next weeks Vásquez will travel to Tyler to assist with the Diocese of Tyler.
At this moment, there isn't an estimated time when a new Bishop of Tyler will be appointed. This will be in the hands of Pope Francis to make the call.