New bishop of La Vega takes office, vows to lead church close to people

The new bishop of the Diocese of La Vega, Andrés Napoleón Romero Cárdenas, has pledged to lead a church that is close to the people and open to dialogue and collaboration with all sectors of society. During his first homily after assuming the role, he committed to working with authorities, educational institutions, and community organizations for the common good.

Romero Cárdenas, appointed by Pope Leo XIV and previously the bishop of Barahona for over 11 years, emphasized the need for the Church to offer the Gospel's message with humility and firmness, respecting everyone while remaining true to the truth. He also highlighted the importance of preserving religious and cultural traditions, as well as core values such as the defense of life, family, freedom, justice, peace, education, work, care for the vulnerable, and environmental protection.

"I arrive with deep respect and gratitude. With a heart willing to learn and believe," he stated. Among his pastoral priorities, he announced the formation of a youth support team to create spaces for formation and faith strengthening. The installation ceremony in La Vega's Immaculate Conception Cathedral was led by apostolic nuncio Piergiorgio Bertold and attended by President Luis Abinader, among other officials. The outgoing apostolic administrator, Monsignor José Amable Durán Tineo, welcomed Romero Cárdenas, noting that the faithful joyfully receive their new pastoral leader for a diocese that includes four provinces and over 120 priests.