Leadership, Immigration and Eucharistic Renewal Shape 2025 Plenary Assembly
By Kristine Rilling11/18/2025
Bishop Lawrence T. Persico returned to the Diocese of Erie this week following the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Fall Plenary Assembly, describing the gathering as a “profound moment of collective discernment and renewed resolve for the church’s mission in the United States.”
The annual assembly brought bishops from across the country together for days of prayer, discernment and discussion on key pastoral issues. A major focus of this year’s meeting was the election of new USCCB leadership. Archbishop Paul Coakley was chosen as president and Bishop Daniel Flores as vice president.
Another prominent topic was the release of a Special Message on immigration, in which the bishops reaffirmed the dignity of every person and rejected indiscriminate mass deportation. Bishop Persico noted that these national discussions resonate in northwest Pennsylvania, where parishes, Catholic Charities and volunteers continue to welcome newcomers seeking safety and community.
The bishops also approved updates to the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services, a move Bishop Persico said will help Catholic health-care partners “uphold human dignity with compassion and integrity across all 13 counties of the diocese.”
A significant portion of the assembly was devoted to the National Eucharistic Revival, which continues to gain momentum nationwide. Bishop Persico expressed particular enthusiasm in hearing how dioceses across the country – and especially the Diocese of Erie—are experiencing renewed devotion to the Eucharist.
“The Eucharistic Revival has reminded us of who we are as a church,” he said. “Here in our diocese, the faith I witness during holy hours, parish missions and everyday worship inspires me deeply. The Holy Spirit is clearly at work.”
The bishops also approved the 11th National Eucharistic Congress, set for summer 2029, encouraging dioceses to continue listening attentively to how the Holy Spirit is calling them to serve.
In reflecting on the assembly, Bishop Persico said he was mindful of the blessings unfolding across the Diocese of Erie – from the generosity expressed through the Catholic Services Appeal to the joyful celebrations of the 2025 Jubilee Year and the quiet, daily acts of discipleship taking place throughout the region.
“National conversations only strengthen the mission we carry out at home,” Bishop Persico said. “Everything we do in Erie remains rooted in the wider mission of the Catholic Church.”
He asked the faithful to join him in praying for the newly elected USCCB leadership, for his brother bishops and for all those the church is called to serve.
For a brief overview of the assembly’s major actions and highlights, please download the attached USCCB infographic here: https://www.usccb.org/resources/November%202025%20Plenary%20Infographic.pdf
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