Pope Francis Names New Auxiliary Bishop For London Diocese

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Pope Francis has named a new Auxiliary Bishop for the Diocese of London.

Rev. Joseph Dąbrowski is currently pastor of St. Mary’s parish in London and Superior of the Michaelite Fathers in North America.

Bishop-Elect Dąbrowski, 50, was born on July 17, 1964 in Poland. He was ordained to the priesthood at the Pontifical Sanctuary of Santa Maria ad Rupes, in Italy on May 4, 1991. Four days later, he was assigned to join the Michaelite Fathers community in London. Upon arriving in London, he took an English-language program at FanshaweCollege.

“Fr. Joe,” as he is affectionately known by his parishioners, has served as associate pastor at Our Lady of Częstochowa in London from 1992-1993; St. Michael in Leamington from 1993-1996; St. Pius X (now Holy Family) in London from 1996-1997; and St. Mary in London from 1997-1998. In 1998 he was named pastor of St. Mary’s Church in London, where he still presently serves. In 2013, he was appointed as the Superior of the North American Vice-Province of the Congregation of St. Michael the Archangel (the Michaelites).

“The naming of Father Dąbrowski as Auxiliary Bishop is wonderful news for our diocese. This appointment is a great tribute to the talent, the experience and the abilities of a faithful and gifted priest. Let us join together in thanking God for this blessing. The Michaelite Fathers have served our diocese for over 50 years. It is truly fitting that this announcement comes during the Year of Consecrated Life.” said Bishop Ronald Fabbro, CSB, Bishop of London. “Over the past 12 years, I have had the privilege of knowing and working with Bishop-Elect Dabrowski. He is a good friend and has made a significant contribution to the pastoral life of the Diocese of London during his many years of ministry. With his background as a religious order priest, his international experience and his knowledge of languages, he brings unique gifts to our diocese. We welcome him warmly as our new Auxiliary Bishop.”

Bishop-elect Dąbrowski enjoys learning languages, travel, and playing the guitar. His favorite sports are volleyball, skiing, tennis, and soccer (he is a big fan of AS Roma).

“I would like to offer “thanks” to God for the gift of calling me to serve the Church, God’s people, the Michaelite community, and my brother priests.
When I was ordained approximately 24 years ago, I never would have dreamed that someday I would become a Bishop. Having been appointed to this office in the year dedicated to Consecrated Life, and on the Feast Day of St. Don Bosco, seems truly providential.” said Bishop-Elect Dąbrowski. “As I begin this new chapter in my life, I look forward to working in tandem with our Bishop in journeying with the faithful in our Diocese. I pray that God will continue to bless me and my ministry, and grant me the knowledge, wisdom, and compassion required to serve the people in this great Diocese of London.”