I am delighted that the consultation process conducted by the Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Gabriel Montalvo, has resulted in the appointment of the third Bishop of the Diocese of New Ulm by Pope John Paul II.

Bishop John C. Nienstedt comes to us with a broad background of theological studies, seminary teaching and administration, pastoral practice and international service. This will serve him well in connecting this rural Diocese of New Ulm with the broader world. He was strongly influenced as a young priest by his mentor and friend, Cardinal John Dearden, Archbishop of Detroit. Dearden was also a mentor and hero of mine as I began my service as bishop, especially his vision of the Church.

I suspect that this background will lead Bishop Nienstedt to embrace the recent Apostolic Letter of Pope John Paul II, "At the Beginning of the Third Millennium". This document sets out the broad outlines of the direction of Catholic Church ministry as we begin the next century.

May the loving Lord bless and hold in his embrace the new Bishop of New Ulm.