‘I cried’: Diocese of Providence introduces new Bishop Lewandowski

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Pope Francis has appointed the new Bishop of Providence.

Bishop Bruce Lewandowski was introduced Tuesday morning at a press conference held at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul.

Bishop Lewandowski shared his reaction when he heard the appointment.

“I cried, it was bittersweet,” said Lewandowski.

Lewandowski comes to Rhode Island from Baltimore, where he served as an auxiliary bishop and was known for his work with immigrant communities.

Now, he takes on the role of Providence’s tenth bishop, and he said immigration will be one of his priorities.

The Bishop gave an introduction in other languages, including Spanish.

Bishop Lewandowski also celebrated mass at noon following the press conference, marking his first official act in the diocese.

“Right now our immigration system is broken and the reason we find ourselves in such a situation,” said Lewandowski.