Pope Leo on Friday named Bishop Richard Moth as the new Archbishop of Westminster, the most prominent Catholic figure in England and Wales.
Moth will replace Cardinal Vincent Nichols who held the post for 16 years and who turned 80, the mandatory retirement age for Catholic bishops, in November.
The 67-year-old was born in Zambia but moved to England at an early age. He has previously served as bishop of the armed forces and has been outspoken on the running of prisons.
“I am moved greatly by the trust that Pope Leo has placed in me.
” I look forward to continuing the great adventure that is the life of the Church and witness to the Gospel.” Moth said in a statement.
The announcement follows the Church of England’s naming of Sarah Mullally as its first female Archbishop of Canterbury in October.