Our Archbishop
Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez
Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez, born in Miami in 1961 and raised in New Jersey, was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 1989 after earning degrees in psychology and theology. He served in various pastoral and educational roles, including ministry to Hispanic Catholics, founding the Catholic Institute for Evangelization, and teaching at La Salle University and Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary. After serving as pastor of Saint William Parish in Philadelphia and Saint Agnes Parish in West Chester, PA, he was ordained an Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre in 2012 and appointed Bishop of Cleveland in 2017. In 2020, he returned to Philadelphia as its 14th Bishop and 10th Archbishop.
Known for his vision of a “Church on Mission,” Archbishop Pérez has held key leadership roles within the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. He currently serves on the Pontifical Commission for Latin America and is a board member of the Black and Indian Mission Office. In addition, he serves as Episcopal Advisor and Board Member of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry.
Archbishop Pérez is also the Chairman of the Board of Catholic Relief Services, one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations. He sits on the Board of Trustees of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
A recipient of honorary doctorates from La Salle University, Neumann University, and Villanova University, Archbishop Pérez brings a kind, joyful, and dedicated spirit to the ministries and people entrusted to his care.
A Lifelong Call to Serve
Early Life & Education
1961
Born June 16 in Miami, Florida to David and Emma Pérez; raised in West New York, NJ
1983
Earned Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Montclair State University
1988
Earned Master of Divinity from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia
1989
Earned Master of Arts in Theology from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary
Priesthood
May 20, 1989
Ordained priest for Archdiocese of Philadelphia at Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
1989-1993
Parochial Vicar at Saint Ambrose Parish, Philadelphia
1990-1993
Assistant director of Office for Hispanic Catholics
1993-2002
Founding director of Catholic Institute for Evangelization
1994-2008
Taught psychology and religious studies courses at La Salle University, Philadelphia
1998
Named Chaplain to Pope John Paul II with title of Monsignor
2002-2009
Pastor of Saint William Parish, Philadelphia
2009
Named Prelate of Honor by Pope Benedict XVI
2009-2012
Pastor of Saint Agnes Parish, West Chester, PA
Fall 2011
Taught Developmental Psychology at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary
Episcopal Ministry
June 8, 2012
Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY by Pope Benedict XVI
July 25, 2012
Ordained Bishop at Saint Agnes Cathedral, Rockville Centre, NY by Bishop William F. Murphy
2012-2017
Served as Auxiliary Bishop with various roles including Episcopal Vicar for Eastern Vicariate (66 parishes) and Hispanic Ministry (54 parishes)
July 11, 2017
Appointed 11th Bishop of Diocese of Cleveland by Pope Francis
September 5, 2017
Installed at Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist, Cleveland
January 23, 2020
Appointed 14th Bishop and 10th Archbishop of Archdiocese of Philadelphia by Pope Francis
Recent Honors & Appointments
December 7, 2020
Appointed to Pontifical Commission for Latin America by Pope Francis
September 2021
Received Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from La Salle University
November 2022
Appointed Chair of Board of Catholic Relief Services (three-year term)
December 2022
Received Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from Neumann University
May 2024
Received Honorary Doctorate in Sacred Letters from Villanova University
Leadership Roles
- Chair, USCCB Standing Committee on Cultural Diversity
- Chair, USCCB Sub-Committee for Hispanic Affairs
- Lead Bishop for V Encuentro process (USCCB)
- Bishop liaison for National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry
- Member of various USCCB boards including Religious Liberty and Administrative Committees
The Pastoral Letter
In a time that calls for unity, renewal, and vision, Archbishop Pérez invites every member of our local Church to join him in a heartfelt and honest conversation about our future together. Trust and Hope is more than a letter – it is a call to walk forward as one, guided by faith, courage, and belief in each other. This letter marks the beginning of a journey we will take together. Your voice, your prayers, and your presence are not only welcome – they are essential.
Let the conversation begin.
Coat of Arms
The coat of arms of Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez blends the deep personal roots of his heritage with the rich legacy of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. On one side of the shield are the arms of the Archdiocese, recalling both its secular and sacred foundations. The other half of the shield reveals the personal arms of Archbishop Pérez.
Below, the Archbishop’s motto reads “Confide et Spera,” or “Trust and Hope,” a quiet command to place our confidence in the Lord. In this coat of arms, faith, heritage, and hope are woven together — a visual testament to a shepherd guided by both personal history and divine light.
The Archbishop’s Initiatives
Commission for Racial Healing
Instituted by Archbishop Pérez in 2021, this diverse advisory body addresses the mortal sin of racism through Catholic Social Teaching and peaceful action.
Contact Ms. Marcelle McGuirk: openwideourhearts@archphila.org
Benefit for Children
Catholic Charities of Philadelphia helps children and families thrive through the Archbishop’s Benefit for Children each Advent. It supports vital programs assisting those facing dire challenges throughout the region.
Commission for Missionary Disciples
In 2020, Archbishop Pérez launched the Commission for Missionary Disciples to build a culture of discipleship. It introduced Ablaze Retreats & Schools of Discipleship, supporting his TrustandHope.org vision.
Support the Church’s Other Initiatives
The Catholic Church of Philadelphia supports initiatives that uplift communities and serve those in need through education, outreach, charity, and advocacy—reflecting our Gospel-rooted commitment to compassion, dignity, and building a just, merciful society.
Connect with the Archbishop
Please see the invitation for the upcoming eveny below from the Permanent Diaconate of the @archphilly:
Called to Serve – A Forum for Men Considering the Permanent Diaconate
Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Archdiocese Office, 222 N. 17th Street, Philadelphia (First Floor Auditorium)
This evening will provide an overview of the Permanent Diaconate, the formation process, and admissions for the School of Diaconal Studies, followed by an open discussion. It is intended for Catholic men ages 29–55, married or single, and wives are strongly encouraged to attend so discernment can be shared as a family. There will be light refreshments provided for all who attend.
For details and registration, any interested men can visit the website: https://archphila.org/deacon
Please see the invitation for the upcoming eveny below from the Permanent Diaconate of the @archphilly:
Called to Serve – A Forum for Men Considering the Permanent Diaconate
Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Archdiocese Office, 222 N. 17th Street, Philadelphia (First Floor Auditorium)
This evening will provide an overview of the Permanent Diaconate, the formation process, and admissions for the School of Diaconal Studies, followed by an open discussion. It is intended for Catholic men ages 29–55, married or single, and wives are strongly encouraged to attend so discernment can be shared as a family. There will be light refreshments provided for all who attend.
For details and registration, any interested men can visit the website: https://archphila.org/deacon …
This morning, I was blessed to celebrate Mass, on the Feast of our beloved local saint, St. John Neumann, for our @archphilly @phillyomya travelers preparing to depart from the incredible 2026 SEEK @focuscatholic in Columbus, OH!
Saint John Neumann, pray for us!
#seek2026 #catholicchurchofphiladelphia
@ram_catholic
@novamissionandministry
@iuministry
@focus.temple
@focus_penn
@drexelfocus
@stcharlessem
@delvalcatholics
This morning, I was blessed to celebrate Mass, on the Feast of our beloved local saint, St. John Neumann, for our @archphilly @phillyomya travelers preparing to depart from the incredible 2026 SEEK @focuscatholic in Columbus, OH!
Saint John Neumann, pray for us!
#seek2026 #catholicchurchofphiladelphia
@ram_catholic
@novamissionandministry
@iuministry
@focus.temple
@focus_penn
@drexelfocus
@stcharlessem
@delvalcatholics …
From the @archphilly @phillyomya pilgrims, “We love you, Philly! We love you, Pope Leo!”
#SEEK2026 @focuscatholic
From the @archphilly @phillyomya pilgrims, “We love you, Philly! We love you, Pope Leo!”
#SEEK2026 @focuscatholic …
What a way to begin 2026 — thousands of Catholic young adults, including 300 from Catholic Church of Philadelphia, gathered in Columbus, OH — we are so blessed! #SEEK2026
What a way to begin 2026 — thousands of Catholic young adults, including 300 from Catholic Church of Philadelphia, gathered in Columbus, OH — we are so blessed! #SEEK2026 …
Yesterday, it was my great joy to join pilgrims of hope from across the Catholic Church of Philadelphia for the celebration of the Archdiocesan Closing Mass of the Jubilee Year on the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph at our Mother Church, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia.
May God bless you abundantly!
Yesterday, it was my great joy to join pilgrims of hope from across the Catholic Church of Philadelphia for the celebration of the Archdiocesan Closing Mass of the Jubilee Year on the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph at our Mother Church, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Philadelphia.
May God bless you abundantly! …
May God bless you with the hope of this Christ Child!
#jubileeyear2025 #feastoftheholyfamily
May God bless you with the hope of this Christ Child!
#jubileeyear2025 #feastoftheholyfamily …
On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the Mother Church of the @archphilly, @cathedralphila, celebrated the Holy Day of Christmas, a most joyous occasion for Catholics in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and throughout the Universal Church as we celebrated the Birth of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.
It was my great joy to join faithful from throughout the five county region and beyond and to celebrate the 5pm Christmas Eve Mass at the Cathedral.
I’m prayerfully grateful to Fr. Dennis Gill, Rector of the Cathedral and Director of the Office for Divine Worship, the clergy, consecrated religious sisters and brothers, staff, and volunteers of the Cathedral; the incredible Cathedral Basilica Schola, Choir, and Instrumentalists under the Direction of Charlene Angelini, Director of Cathedral Parish Music; and Mark Loria, Principal Organist for their dedication and tireless service to making the celebration of Christmas at the Cathedral a blessed and beautiful one.
#merrychristmas #Feliznavidad #catholicchurchofphiladelphia
On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the Mother Church of the @archphilly, @cathedralphila, celebrated the Holy Day of Christmas, a most joyous occasion for Catholics in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and throughout the Universal Church as we celebrated the Birth of our Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ.
It was my great joy to join faithful from throughout the five county region and beyond and to celebrate the 5pm Christmas Eve Mass at the Cathedral.
I’m prayerfully grateful to Fr. Dennis Gill, Rector of the Cathedral and Director of the Office for Divine Worship, the clergy, consecrated religious sisters and brothers, staff, and volunteers of the Cathedral; the incredible Cathedral Basilica Schola, Choir, and Instrumentalists under the Direction of Charlene Angelini, Director of Cathedral Parish Music; and Mark Loria, Principal Organist for their dedication and tireless service to making the celebration of Christmas at the Cathedral a blessed and beautiful one.
#merrychristmas #Feliznavidad #catholicchurchofphiladelphia …
Merry Christmas! 🎄 ❤️
#merrychristmas
Merry Christmas! 🎄 ❤️
#merrychristmas …
¡Feliz navidad! 🎄 ❤️
#Feliznavidad
¡Feliz navidad! 🎄 ❤️
#Feliznavidad …
On this Christmas Eve, as we prepare to celebrate the Nativity of Our Lord, I share with you the attached special message from myself and the auxiliary bishops of the @archphilly.
May God bless you and your loved ones this Christmas Eve and always!
#catholicchurchofphiladelphia #christmaseve
On this Christmas Eve, as we prepare to celebrate the Nativity of Our Lord, I share with you the attached special message from myself and the auxiliary bishops of the @archphilly.
May God bless you and your loved ones this Christmas Eve and always!
#catholicchurchofphiladelphia #christmaseve …
Yesterday, it was my great blessing, alongside my brother bishops and priests, to celebrate Mass, as we prepare for the birth of our Savior on Christmas, for the staff of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center (APC). I also expressed my prayerful gratitude for each of them and their tireless service in the @archphilly throughout the year.
Immediately following Mass, the Nativity Scene in front of the APC, on 17th Street in Center City, was blessed by Father Gill, Director of our Office for Divine Worship and Rector of the @cathedralphila and @saintkatharinedrexelshrine.
Yesterday, it was my great blessing, alongside my brother bishops and priests, to celebrate Mass, as we prepare for the birth of our Savior on Christmas, for the staff of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center (APC). I also expressed my prayerful gratitude for each of them and their tireless service in the @archphilly throughout the year.
Immediately following Mass, the Nativity Scene in front of the APC, on 17th Street in Center City, was blessed by Father Gill, Director of our Office for Divine Worship and Rector of the @cathedralphila and @saintkatharinedrexelshrine. …
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
The Archdiocesan Closing of the Jubilee Year will be held December 28, 2025 on the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, at our Mother Church of the @archphilly , the @cathedralphila, Philadelphia and the @saintkatharinedrexelshrine, at the 11:00 AM Solemn Mass. It is my great joy to be the principal celebrant and homilist for this occasion. I invite you to join me in person and via livestream on my Facebook.
May God bless you abundantly as we prepare for the birth of our Savior, this Christmas, and always!
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
The Archdiocesan Closing of the Jubilee Year will be held December 28, 2025 on the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, at our Mother Church of the @archphilly , the @cathedralphila, Philadelphia and the @saintkatharinedrexelshrine, at the 11:00 AM Solemn Mass. It is my great joy to be the principal celebrant and homilist for this occasion. I invite you to join me in person and via livestream on my Facebook.
May God bless you abundantly as we prepare for the birth of our Savior, this Christmas, and always! …