New archbishop appointed to lead Archdiocese of Milwaukee

 

ST. FRANCIS, Wis. (CBS 58) — A new Archbishop has been chosen to lead the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

The current Archbishop Jerome Listecki was required to send his notice of retirement on his 75th birthday last March.

On Oct. 15, Pope Francis selected Bishop Jeffrey Grob as the 12th archbishop of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

He is currently an Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Chicago, but a native of Wisconsin.

"Selfishly, I was happy because I knew I would be coming home," Grob said about learning of his appointment.

The Archbishop-designate introduced himself to the Archdiocese of Milwaukee on Monday, Nov. 4.

"I look forward to listening intently, and actively learning more about this local church that is known for its rich history and legacy," Grob said.

Grob grew up on a dairy farm in Cross Plains, west of Madison.

"I'm not afraid to stand alongside anyone and roll up my sleeves and work. That's how I was formed," he explained.

Archbishop Listecki said he believes Grob will quickly earn the confidence of the clergy in Milwaukee.

"My one prayer for you as you assume the reigns of leadership is to lead our community towards holiness, as we follow our Lord's command to love one another," Listecki said to Grob.

Grob said he still has a lot to learn about the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. He hopes to increase participation in the church by meeting people where they're at.

"I'm a firm believer everything in my own life - many things I would not have necessarily chosen, but were put before me," he explained. "I will do everything in my power to serve with a faith-filled heart."

Archbishop-designate Grob will be installed by Cardinal Christophe Pierre on Jan. 14.