The Archdiocese of Birmingham will receive two new auxiliary bishops in July.
Pope Francis has appointed Canon Richard Walker, Vicar General of the Archdiocese, and Monsignor Timothy Menezes, Dean of St Chad’s Cathedral, as Auxiliary Bishops of Birmingham on 25th April.
“I was very surprised to be told that I was being appointed auxiliary bishop in Birmingham by Pope Francis,” Fr. Tim told Birmingham Eastside.
The cathedral dean received the news on 22nd April.
“For a Catholic priest, we never apply for anything,” he said. “We never ask to go anywhere, so it’s always a surprise.
“And I’ve always loved being a priest. I’ve been a priest for 29 years. I have wanted to be a priest since I was six years old, so it’s been my life. And this is a great privilege to be asked to do this.
“As a bishop, I have a lot to learn and I would be grateful for the prayers of all those who have helped me so far,” he added.
I was at seminary with Tim at Oscott College. He was very kind to me. I was also very impressed that he should spend an hour each morning before the Blessed Sacrament and also by his love of the Holy Rosary.
God bless,
Hugh
My warmest congratulations and fervent prayers to dear “Father Tim”, Auxiliary Bishop of Birmingham.
May the Lord bless him and guide his ministry.