Pope appoints bishop for diocese in Nova Scotia

Vatican City, Nov 23, 2009 / 14:20 pm

On Saturday, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Bishop Brian Joseph Dunn as bishop of the Diocese of Antigonish in Nova Scotia, Canada. Bishop Dunn currently serves as auxiliary bishop of Sault Sainte Marie, Canada.

“We are grateful to the Holy Father for recognizing the particular needs of our church by naming a new Bishop in such a timely manner,” said Fr. Paul Abbass, spokesman for the Diocese of Antigonish.

“While our diocese is facing times of challenge and struggle we are also a diocese with a history of deep faith and working together. It is in this spirit that we continue to seek pathways to healing and rebuilding,” continued Fr. Abbass in a statement released by the Diocese of Antigonish. “We are pleased to welcome Bishop Dunn as he joins us on this journey forward and we offer him our cooperation and support.”

According to the Diocese of Antigonish, Bishop Dunn was born in St. John's, Newfoundland and attended school locally until he began his priestly formation St. Peter's Seminary in London, Ontario. Bishop Dunn was ordained to the priesthood in 1980 and went on to complete post-graduate studies in Theology and Canon Law. Aside from his pastoral ministries throughout the years, the bishop also served as a lecturer and faculty member St. Peter's Seminary, teaching a variety of courses and eventually becoming Dean of Studies.

Bishop Dunn was ordained a bishop in 2008 and since has served as one of the auxiliary bishops of the Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie, Canada.

“The People, Priests and Religious of the Diocese of Antigonish welcome the news of the appointment of our new Bishop Brian Joseph Dunn,” stated Fr. Abbass on Saturday. “In keeping with our rich culture and tradition may our first words be ones of Welcome, Hospitality and Prayer.”