Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop Of Milwaukee

Today, the Archdiocese of Milwaukee received with joy the news that Pope Benedict XVI has named Msgr. David Malloy, currently pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lake Geneva, as the new bishop of Rockford Ill.  He will replace the retiring Bishop Thomas G. Doran.

Bishop-elect Malloy’s appointment is a tribute to his dedication and priestly service to the Church. After ordination to the priesthood, Bishop-elect Malloy was assigned to diplomatic service for the Vatican. He was stationed in Pakistan, Syria and, in addition, his assignments included the Papal Mission to the United Nations, and the Prefecture of the Papal Household in Rome. Most recently, he was the associate and then general secretary of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in Washington, D.C.

Upon returning to the Archdiocese of Milwaukee in 2011, he was appointed administrator of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lake Geneva, and later became pastor. When I appointed him to that faith-filled congregation, I could sense the excitement in the parishioners and the parish staff, who couldn’t help but envision their congregation moving forward in partnership with this energetic priest. His mother and immediate family, present at the celebration, were happy to have their son, brother and uncle so close to home and enjoying his assignment.

I know that even with the joy of this announcement for Bishop-elect Malloy, there is sadness in a community which has so quickly embraced him and the direction he offered as their new pastor. Every time I would see Msgr. Malloy and ask how he was adjusting to parish life, he would respond without hesitancy that he couldn’t be happier, and was loving ever minute of parish life.  Like a proud “father,” he would boast about his parishioners, telling me of their commitment to the parish and the depth of their faith.

Bishop-elect Malloy’s proficiency in Spanish helped to create a bridge to the growing Hispanic population at St. Francis de Sales Parish. His associate pastor, Fr. Angel Anaya, told me that he personally learned much from Bishop-elect Malloy’s leadership style and that they worked collaboratively to make sure that the Hispanic community was always included in all the activities, with the understanding that they worked as one parish.

I first met Bishop-elect Malloy when he was a theologian at the North American College. We shared a love for basketball and would play one-on-one. Eight years younger, he was quick and agile, with a good shot to offset his ability. I myself would depend upon the wisdom that comes with age, my cunning deception, physical intimidation and unlimited timeouts just to stay in the game!

Back then, neither of us at that time envisioned the episcopacy. Our discussions usually revolved around the priesthood and our love for the Church. Through these experiences and discussions of faith, a friendship developed which has managed to last for over 30 years.

Bishop-elect Malloy’s appointment is a tribute to the priests and people of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. We serve Christ and his Church and Pope Benedict honors us by selecting one of our own to be a successor of the Apostles. As his friend and archbishop, I am proud of this appointment. However, I know that we in the archdiocese will be losing a talented pastor, who serves with the heart and mind of the Church. In spite of that, I also know that the Holy Spirit will challenge us to step forward to fill the leadership role, and assume our responsibility to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Note: this blog originally appeared as the March 20, 2012 "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki. If you are interested in signing up for these emails, please click here.