Canada’s largest Catholic diocese has a new archbishop.
Early Saturday morning, the Vatican announced the appointment of Bishop Francis Leo as the new archbishop for the Archdiocese of Toronto, which runs from Toronto to Georgian Bay and from Oshawa to Mississauga and comprises almost two million Catholics, roughly 400 priests, and 225 parishes.
“This was a most unexpected appointment, yet I have learned throughout my priesthood and service to the Church that God’s special plans for us unfold in unexpected moments that lead to tremendous blessings.” Collins, who will continue to live within the Archdiocese of Toronto, was ordained to the priesthood in 1973. He was named bishop in 1997 and installed as Archbishop of Toronto in 2007 before being elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2012. Previously, Collins served as Bishop of Saint Paul, Alberta and Archbishop of Edmonton, Alberta.