Appointment, Sept. 17, 2026
Bishop-designate Brendan Cahill Discusses Faith, Leadership, and Mission
JOLIET, Ill. — Just hours after the announcement of his appointment as the seventh bishop of the Diocese of Joliet, Bishop-designate Brendan J. Cahill met with members of the media on Sept. 17 at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus to discuss his new assignment, his hopes for the future, and the challenges and opportunities that await him in Illinois.
Currently serving as bishop of the Diocese of Victoria in Texas, where he has led the diocese since 2015, Cahill acknowledged the emotions that accompany leaving a community he has come to love while preparing to embrace a new flock in northeastern Illinois. His installation as bishop of the Diocese of Joliet is scheduled for Nov. 11, 2026 at 2 pm.
“The transition is difficult, letting go of a place you love,” Cahill said.
At the same time, he expressed excitement about beginning his ministry in Illinois and getting to know the people and parishes of the diocese. Rather than remaining behind a desk, he emphasized his desire to spend time in local communities, visiting parishioners, catechists, teachers, and priests throughout the diocese.
“I think it's just getting out of the office into the parishes,” he said, describing the pastoral approach that has characterized much of his ministry and leadership.
When asked about his vision as bishop, Cahill pointed to the image of a shepherd walking alongside the people entrusted to his care. He said he hopes to be a leader who accompanies others, listens attentively, and remains present among the faithful as they seek to live out the Gospel in today’s world.
“I hope to be a shepherd that can walk with people and beside people and lead people and follow people in the service of Jesus Christ in our world,” Cahill said.
Several questions during the press conference focused on issues of human dignity and public policy, particularly in Illinois, where debates over abortion and other life issues continue to be a prominent part of public life. Cahill stressed the importance of fostering what the Catholic Church calls a culture of life, rooted in respect for every human person.
“We need to work on changing the culture to be more what we call a culture of life,” he said. “That we respect every human being, every person, that we see their beauty and goodness and we respect them.”
The bishop-designate also spoke about the spiritual foundation of episcopal ministry, identifying prayer as the most essential responsibility of a bishop. Drawing on the example of bishops he has known throughout his priesthood and episcopacy, Cahill said faithful daily prayer remains at the heart of effective pastoral leadership.
“Prayer is the most important work of the bishop,” he said.
In a lighter moment, Cahill was asked about adapting to Midwestern winters after spending much of his ministry in Texas. He admitted that snowy roads and icy conditions will be a new experience.
“I've driven on ice, but there are things I just don't have experience with,” he said. “God's led me thus far, and God will lead me through.”
As he prepares to leave Texas and begin a new chapter in Illinois, Cahill's remarks revealed a pastor focused on presence, prayer, and accompaniment. His message to the faithful of the Diocese of Joliet was one of optimism and trust, grounded in the conviction that Christ continues to guide His Church through every transition and every new mission.
