Northwest Ohio Priest Named Bishop of Lexington by Pope Francis

Tolodo Blade
March 12, 2015

http://www.toledoblade.com/Religion/2015/03/12/Findlay-area-priest-named-bishop-of-Lexington-by-Pope-Franics.html

The Rev. John Stowe, a priest in the Order of Friars Minor Conventual, who has served in Carey since 2010 as the rector of the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation, has been named the bishop of Lexington by Pope Francis.

Bishop-Elect Stowe is in Lexington, Ky., today for the public announcement.

Bishop Daniel Thomas of the Diocese of Toledo, which includes Carey, called the appointment "a reflection of our Holy Father's confidence in Father Stowe, his deep love for Our Lord and His Church, and his faithful and dedicated priestly ministry throughout the years. The Diocese of Toledo, and particularly the faithful of Our Lady of Consolation Parish, have been blessed by Bishop-Elect Stowe's presence and pastoral care. I know that he will serve the good people of the Diocese of Lexington as a faithful shepherd. I ask that all priests, deacons, religious and laity of the Diocese of Toledo join me in extending congratulations and prayerful best wishes as he prepares to accept this assignment."

Bishop-Elect Stowe will be the third bishop of Lexington, which encompasses 50 counties in central and eastern Kentucky and became a diocese in 1988.

There are almost 42,000 Catholics in Bishop-Elect Stowe's diocese