Archdiocese

Pope chooses Jose Gomez bishop for Los Angeles *

jose-gomez.jpgA press conference has reportedly been scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels amid reports in Catholic media and blogosphere that Mexican-born Jose Gomez, 58 and the archbishop of San Antonio since 2005, has been appointed by Pope Benedict as coadjutor-archbishop of Los Angeles. He would succeed Cardinal Roger Mahony, who is due to retire soon after turning 75. Gomez has what's being called a "fascinating resume" — ordained as a priest of Opus Dei and with degrees in philosophy and accounting. He's also been named by Time magazine as one of the 25 most influential Hispanics in America. As for having a Mexican spiritual leader for L.A.'s Roman Catholics, "it is without precedent... its significance, nothing short of epic," says the blog Whispers in the Loggia. The blog also details some of the background.

* Morning updates: Vatican City announced the appointment this morning. Catholic News Agency, Catholic Online

Cardinal Mahony's blog


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