Archbishop Roche new Prefect of Congregation for Divine Worship

Archbishop Arthur Roche

The Holy Father has chosen new leadership for the Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments. Pope Francis appointed a new Prefect, Secretary, and Under-Secretary of the Congregation on Thursday 27 May 2021.

Archbishop Arthur Roche, who was previously Secretary of the Congregation, will now take on the role of Prefect.

Bishop Vittorio Francesco Viola, OFM until now Bishop of Tortona, becomes the Secretary, while the Pope also conferred on him the title Archbishop-Bishop emeritus of Tortona.

Mgr Aurelio García Marcías, who previously served as Office Manager at the Congregation, will now become its Under-Secretary. The Pope also assigned him the titular See of Rotdon.

Archbishop Roche, 71, served as the tenth Bishop of Leeds from 2004 to 2012. He was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Leeds in July 1975.

On 26 June 2012, Archbishop Roche was appointed Secretary for the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments. He served in the role for almost nine years prior to his appointment as Prefect.

The present Bishop of Leeds, Bishop Marcus Stock said: "I am sure that you will wish to join me in offering Archbishop Roche our congratulations, very best wishes and the assurance of our prayers for his leadership in this important role and for his continuing ministry in the service of the Universal Church."