Press Release

Augustinian Friars Welcome the Election of Archbishop-elect Richard Moth as Archbishop of Westminster

The Augustinian Friars joyfully welcome the election of Bishop Richard Moth as the new Archbishop of Westminster, offering prayerful congratulations and fraternal support as he begins this important ministry of leadership and pastoral service.

We give thanks to God for Archbishop-elect Moth's generous "yes" to the call of the Church, and for the gifts of wisdom, humility, and pastoral sensitivity that he brings to this new role. His years of faithful episcopal ministry, marked by dedication to the Gospel, care for clergy and religious, and a deep concern for the people of God, will be a great blessing to the Archdiocese of Westminster and to the wider Church in England and Wales.

At this moment of transition, the Augustinian Friars also wish to express their profound gratitude to His Eminence Cardinal Vincent Nichols for his devoted and generous service as Archbishop of Westminster. Throughout his years of episcopal leadership, Cardinal Nichols has guided the Archdiocese with faith, pastoral charity, and a steadfast commitment to the mission of the Church. His support for religious life, his witness to unity, and his tireless service to the people of God have left an enduring legacy for which we give sincere thanks.

As Augustinians, inspired by the charism of St Augustine - to be "of one mind and one heart on the way to God" - we assure Archbishop-elect Moth of our prayers as he takes up this responsibility of shepherding the local Church. We look forward to collaborating with him in the Church's mission of evangelisation, service, and the building up of communion.

We entrust Archbishop-elect Moth's episcopal ministry to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the maternal intercession of Our Lady, praying that the Lord may grant him strength, joy, and wisdom as he leads God's people with faith and hope.