Jim Goodness (973) 497-4186 goodneja@rcan.org

For Release: June 27, 2003

Statement of Bishop-Elect Edgar da Cunha, S.D.V.

Archbishop Myers, Bishop Serratelli, Ladies and Gentlemen:
Today I thank God for all that he has given me: my life, my faith, my health, my family, my religious community, the gift of the priesthood and now to serve him and his Church in the Episcopal Ministry. I thank the Holy Father for entrusting this important mission to me. I thank Archbishop Myers for his support, and his trust and confidence in me, and I look forward to working with him.

When I came to this country my name was all I could say in English that the Americans could understand. And during these 25 years in this country, and my 21 years as a priest, so many good things have happened. My whole life in this country has been involved with minorities and with the poor. First in St. Michael’s, Newark, with the Hispanics; then St. Nicholas, Palisades Park, working with the Italians, Croatians and Brazilians; while at our House of Formation in Florham Park, continuing to Spanish and Portuguese; and, then going full circle, back at St. Michael’s, in Newark. I have worked with Hispanics, Italians, Croatians, Brazilians, Portuguese and other immigrants.

I was welcomed into this country when I arrived here 25 years ago. I know how important it is to feel welcome when you are away from home. The church in this Archdiocese of Newark is a church of immigrants -- Church that welcomes. “I was a stranger and you welcomed me,” Jesus said. I am glad I am now in a position where I can reciprocate the welcome.

I believe that all the Latinos and all Catholic immigrants in this Archdiocese will feel good today knowing that the church cares about them by appointing a Bishop from among them. I want all the immigrants in the Archdiocese of Newark to know that I am one of them, one with them, and one for them. I want to be one more voice for the poor, the underprivileged, the defenseless, the needy. I am sure there is need to proclaim the Gospel to all classes of people, to ministers to all of them. I am also sure that there is great reward in ministering to all of God’s people. I find a great joy and reward serving the poor and the needy. I have done that my whole life and I hope to continue doing so.

2003 News Releases