Pope Appoints Providence Bishop as Successor to O’Malley in Boston

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 PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Pope Francis announced on Monday that he is appointing Richard Henning, the Roman Catholic Bishop of Providence, as the new Archbishop of Boston.

At 59, Archbishop-elect Henning will succeed Cardinal Sean O’Malley, one of The most prominent bishops in the United States and a close ally of Pope Francis. O’Malley, 80, previously served as the bishop of Fall River, where he addressed The fallout from the sex abuse crisis.

Although O’Malley is five years beyond The typical retirement age for bishops, he will continue to advise and assist Pope Francis despite his retirement. However, as he is now 80, he can no longer vote for The next pope.

Henning’s appointment is surprising, as he was only appointed bishop of Providence last year. He succeeded Bishop Thomas Tobin, who had held The position since 2005.

“Over The last two years, you may have noticed that I usually have something to say. I regret that in this instance, I do not feel that I can find the words to express my sorrow in leaving The Church of Providence,” Henning said in a statement. “In so many ways and moments, you have welcomed me into your churches, homes, and hearts. Your resilience in the face of challenges, your commitment to family and community, and your abiding faith in Jesus have lifted me and taught me. I am ever in your debt.”

In a one-on-one interview about his appointment as archbishop of Boston, Henning reflected on his time in Rhode Island. “When I arrived in Rhode Island, I spoke about my delight in The state motto and the fact that I would now live in a state of hope,” he continued. “Having now visited communities across Rhode Island, I say with great certainty that it is you, The people of this beautiful state – you are that hope! I will never cease to pray for you, and I hope for your prayers for me.”

It is not yet clear who will replace Henning in the Providence diocese. The Rev. Msgr. Albert Kenney, the diocese’s vicar general, could be asked to lead the church locally until Henning’s permanent successor is named.

Henning will remain the apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Providence until he is formally installed as archbishop in Boston on Oct. 31. He will retain most of the same powers as a bishop, with certain exceptions, such as the right to sell diocesan real estate.

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey congratulated Henning on his appointment and praised O’Malley in a statement. She said she had been "humbled and privileged to seek and receive his advice many times during my time as attorney general and governor."

“I greatly admire his deep faith and his empathy and compassion for all,” Healey said of O’Malley. “He will be remembered for his lifesaving support for families experiencing homelessness, his advocacy for more affordable housing, his support for victims of human trafficking, and his global leadership in the fight against climate change.”