Episcopal Liaison

In 1992, Cardinal James Hickey, then Archbishop of Washington, DC, was asked to serve as the first Episcopal Liaison for the Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious. He served in this capacity until his resignation in 1999. Cardinal Hickey, now Archbishop Emeritus of Washington DC, provided much support and guidance during the early days of the Council.

In 2001, the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life appointed Most Reverend Justin Rigali, then Archbishop of St. Louis, as the Episcopal Liaison for the Council. In 2003, Cardinal Rigali was appointed Archbishop of Philadelphia and was elevated Cardinal. He is currently Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.