Key Takeaways
- Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito from the Diocese of Palm Beach and appointed Reverend Manuel de Jesus Rodriguez as Bishop-elect of Palm Beach.
- Bishop-elect Rodriguez is a priest of the Diocese of Brooklyn and currently serves as pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Corona, Queens, New York.
- Father Rodriguez has a diverse educational background, with degrees in philosophy, law, education, and canon law from institutions in the Dominican Republic, Rome, and the United States.
- He has served in various roles, including director of schools, parochial vicar, administrator, and pastor, in both the Dominican Republic and the Diocese of Brooklyn.
Introduction to the New Bishop
The Diocese of Palm Beach has undergone a significant change in leadership with the resignation of Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, 75, and the appointment of Reverend Manuel de Jesus Rodriguez as Bishop-elect of Palm Beach. This announcement was made public on December 19, 2025, by Cardinal Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States. The resignation and appointment mark a new era for the Diocese of Palm Beach, and Bishop-elect Rodriguez brings with him a wealth of experience and a diverse educational background.
Biographical Background of Bishop-elect Rodriguez
Bishop-elect Rodriguez was born on January 15, 1974, in the Dominican Republic and became a United States citizen on July 25, 2018. He pursued his studies at the Pontifical University Madre y Maestra in the Dominican Republic, earning degrees in philosophy and law, as well as a degree in education from the Catholic University of Santo Domingo. Additionally, he received a doctorate in legal studies from the Pontifical Salesian University in Rome, a master’s degree in education from the Instituto Tecnologico de Santo Domingo, and a licentiate in canon law from The Catholic University of America. He also holds a doctorate in canon law from the University of Navarre in Spain. This impressive educational background has equipped him with a deep understanding of theology, law, and education, making him an ideal candidate for the role of Bishop-elect.
Vocation and Ministry
Bishop-elect Rodriguez was admitted to the Salesians of Don Bosco, a religious order, in 1993 and made his final profession on September 22, 2002. He was ordained to the priesthood on July 3, 2004, in the Dominican Republic and was incardinated into the Diocese of Brooklyn in 2012. His assignments after ordination in the Dominican Republic include director of John Bosco School and director of Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Santo Domingo. In the Diocese of Brooklyn, he has served as parochial vicar, administrator, and pastor at various churches, including St. Michael Church, Sts. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, and Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church. Currently, he serves as pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Corona, Queens, and has been the defender of the bond on the diocesan tribunal since 2017.
Language Skills and Assignments
Bishop-elect Rodriguez is a polyglot, speaking English, Spanish, French, and Italian fluently. This language proficiency will enable him to communicate effectively with the diverse community of the Diocese of Palm Beach. His experience in serving in various roles, from director of schools to pastor, has prepared him to take on the responsibilities of leading the Diocese of Palm Beach. As Bishop-elect, he will be tasked with guiding the spiritual growth and development of the diocese, and his language skills will be an asset in this role.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The appointment of Bishop-elect Manuel de Jesus Rodriguez as the new leader of the Diocese of Palm Beach marks a significant milestone for the diocese. With his impressive educational background, diverse experience, and language skills, he is well-equipped to lead the diocese and serve the community. As he prepares to take on his new role, the Diocese of Palm Beach looks forward to a new era of spiritual growth and development under his guidance. The community is eager to welcome Bishop-elect Rodriguez and support him in his mission to serve the diocese and spread the message of Christ.
