Pope Francis Accepts Resignation of Faithful Brooklyn Auxiliary Bishop Tiedemann

Pope Francis has officially accepted the resignation of Brooklyn Auxiliary Bishop Neil Tiedemann, who recently reached the mandatory age of 75 for bishops to offer their resignation from their ecclesiastical positions. Bishop Tiedemann has faithfully served as an auxiliary bishop in the diocese since 2016, following his appointment by Pope Benedict XVI.

Auxiliary Bishop Neil Tiedemann.

Highlights

By Catholic Online (NEWS CONSORTIUM)
6/30/2023 (1 year ago)

Published in U.S.

Keywords: Pope Francis, Auxiliary Bishop Neil Tiedemann, Brooklyn, resignation, age, 75

Expressing gratitude for Bishop Tiedemann's dedicated years of service in Brooklyn and Queens, Bishop Robert Brennan of Brooklyn released a statement on Friday, acknowledging the enriching impact the bishop has had on the diocese. "Bishop Tiedemann's extraordinary experiences beyond our diocese have allowed him to share his knowledge, passion, and dedication to the Church and its people," Bishop Brennan stated.

Before his service in Brooklyn, Bishop Tiedemann held the position of bishop of Mandeville, Jamaica, to which he was also appointed by Pope Benedict XVI. His tenure in Jamaica spanned eight years, during which he made significant contributions to the local Catholic community.

A member of the Passionists religious order, Bishop Tiedemann was ordained to the priesthood on May 16, 1975, within the Brooklyn Diocese. He embarked on his ministry as a parochial vicar at Immaculate Conception Parish in Jamaica, Queens, where he served from 1975 to 1982. Throughout his career, he also served at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Union City, New Jersey, and Blessed Sacrament in Springfield, Massachusetts, both parishes with vibrant Hispanic communities.

During his time ministering in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Bishop Tiedemann played a pivotal role in establishing Casa Pasionista, an AIDS hospice that provided care and support to those affected by the disease. From 1998 to 2005, he served at Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Brooklyn's Red Hook neighborhood, a place of personal significance as it was where his grandparents and great-grandparents exchanged their vows.

Recognizing his contributions and leadership within the Passionists, Bishop Tiedemann was elected to the provincial council of the religious order in 2006.

In a statement released by the diocese on Friday, Bishop Tiedemann expressed gratitude for the blessings he has received throughout his priesthood. He extended his thanks to Bishops Nicholas DiMarzio and Robert Brennan for their kindness, support, and encouragement. Bishop Tiedemann also conveyed his appreciation to his fellow priests for their friendship and, most importantly, to the wonderful people of the Brooklyn Diocese. He recognized the transformative influence of the faithful, emphasizing that they embody the face of God in his life.

As Bishop Tiedemann concludes his time as auxiliary bishop, the Brooklyn Diocese celebrates his remarkable contributions and wishes him well in the next chapter of his journey. The diocese remains indebted to his dedicated service and the profound impact he has made on the Church and its members.