By Currents News
Pope Leo XIV has named Auxiliary Bishop John Bonnici of the Archdiocese of New York as the next bishop of the Diocese of Rochester.
A New York City native, Bishop Bonnici attended Cathedral Prep High School and Seminary in Manhattan before earning a bachelor’s degree in biology and philosophy from St. John’s University.
Ordained in 1991, he served in multiple parishes for over 30 years and taught as an adjunct professor of theology at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Dunwoodie.
He was appointed auxiliary bishop of New York in 2022.
Following the announcement, Dennis Poust, Executive Director of the New York State Catholic Conference, praised the selection: “The Holy Father has made an excellent selection. Bishop Bonnici is a wonderful priest and bishop, with a pastor’s heart and a sharp intellect. The Catholic faithful of Rochester will love their new shepherd, I am certain.”