Archbishop: Change in governance leads to new roles for Bishop Coyne, Msgr. Stumpf

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ! (Phil. 1: 2).

I would like to announce an important change in the governance of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. After considerable thought, prayer and consultation, I have asked Bishop Christopher Coyne to assume a new pastoral responsibility for the Catholic communities in the southern tier of the Archdiocese. While remaining an auxiliary bishop and vicar general at the service of the entire Archdiocese, Bishop Coyne will give particular attention to the people, parishes and other archdiocesan institutions in three southern deaneries: Seymour, New Albany and Tell City. His residence will be in Jeffersonville, where he will also serve as administrator of Sacred Heart and St. Augustine parishes. I intend to name a parochial vicar to assist him with the two parishes.

Bishop Coyne remains my principal co-worker in the governance and pastoral care of the Archdiocese. We are fortunate to have two bishops to serve the Catholic communities of central and southern Indiana, and I would like to make the best use of our episcopal ministry. It is my hope that this new appointment will contribute to advancing the mission of the Church and take advantage of Bishop Coyne’s many gifts. Of course, I will not be a complete stranger to the Catholic communities of the southern deaneries.

I have asked Monsignor William Stumpf to serve as vicar general and moderator of the curia. He will assist me in the governance of the Archdiocese and exercise special care for the ministry of the Catholic Center. In the past, Monsignor Stumpf assisted Archbishop Daniel in different capacities, and I welcome his expertise and experience. He will continue to pastor St. Michael Parish in Greenfield through January 2015.

These changes will become effective on October 1, 2014. While I thank Bishop Coyne and Monsignor Stumpf for their generosity in accepting these new responsibilities, I ask you to pray for them and for me, that our ministry may give glory to God and lead others to a greater love of Jesus, the most holy Redeemer.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

+ Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.
Archbishop of Indianapolis

Related: Archbishop Tobin says changes are steps to help archdiocesan faithful feel more closely connected