Statement from Archbishop Collins

December 16th, 2006

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Almost ten years ago Pope John Paul called me to the office of bishop, and sent me to be Bishop of St. Paul, and then Archbishop of Edmonton. I will always be deeply grateful for my experience as bishop in these two dioceses. I have been constantly inspired by the example of loving Christian discipleship which I have found in the priests, religious and lay people whom I have served as bishop. Thank you.

Today our Holy Father, Pope Benedict, has called me to serve the people in another portion of the vineyard of the Lord. In January I will begin my new mission as Archbishop of Toronto. Until then I will continue as Administrator of the Archdiocese of Edmonton. I am deeply honoured by the confidence the Holy Father has placed in me, and I will devote my life to serving the people he has entrusted to my care.

As I begin this new apostolic ministry in Toronto I ask for your prayers, that I may be a faithful witness to the love of God. Through the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe may I be an effective instrument of God’s grace in the mission of evangelization.

May Our Lord bless you always,

Thomas Collins
Administrator of the Archdiocese of Edmonton
Archbishop Designate of Toronto