Reverend Robert Philip Reed, formally of Swampscott, becomes Bishop during a ceremony at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Wednesday. Photo by Mark M. Lorenz
By Leah Dearborn
BOSTON — Former Swampscott resident Rev. Robert P. Reed was ordained auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Boston on Wednesday.
“I’ve loved being a priest for 31 years,” said Bishop Reed when asked what the ordination means for him personally. “It means more of the same, a chance to continue serving the Archdiocese of Boston.”
Both Bishop Reed and fellow bishop-elect Mark O’Connell were ordained by Cardinal Sean O’Malley in a ceremony that drew a large crowd, filling pews at the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Holy Cross in the South End.
Bishop Reed and O’Connell were named bishops-elect by Pope Francis in June, and English translations of their letters of appointment were read out loud.
“After due examination, we judge it most suitable that you, beloved son … should be appointed to this office,” said the pope in the letter addressed to Bishop Reed. “It is our earnest desire that you remain steadfast in your work for the salvation of souls.”
Bishop Reed was ordained as a priest at St. John the Evangelist Church in Swampscott, the town where he grew up. Bishop Reed attended the former St. John the Evangelist elementary school and St. John’s Prep.
Bishop Reed’s career in the church has also included an interest in media. After earning a degree in television management from Boston University’s College of Communication, he worked for the CatholicTV Network. He also served as president of iCatholic Media Inc. and cabinet secretary for Catholic Media.
The ordination took place on the Feast of Saint Bartholomew, which Cardinal O’Malley said carried important significance in its connection to martyrs across the world, including those from the 21st century.
“May the ministry reflect sensitivity to all those who are suffering in the current day,” said Cardinal O’Malley to the newly appointed bishops.
