CAMDEN – The Most Reverend Joseph A. Williams, Bishop of Camden, has appointed Father Vincent Guest as Vicar for the City of Camden. This is a role that has been utilized several times in the history of the Diocese and is designed to strengthen the Catholic Church’s coordination and outreach in the city.
In this role, Father Guest will represent the bishop at civic events and community meetings and serve as a point of contact with government agencies and neighborhood organizations. He will also oversee collaboration among Catholic leaders, parishes, Catholic Charities and church-affiliated groups working in Camden.
Another part of his assignment will be to help develop parish-based neighborhood action plans aimed at addressing local needs and supporting residents.
“Father Guest will be able to bring – with the Bishop’s voice – the Catholic Church’s tradition to the well-being of the City of Camden,” said Father Jason Rocks, Chancellor for the Diocese of Camden.
Remarking on this new role at a recent event of community leaders in Camden, Bishop Williams said the appointment reflects his desire to give the city more direct pastoral attention and to ensure the Church has a visible and organized presence in the city.
Father Guest currently serves as pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Camden, where he has been active in promoting social justice, community partnerships and outreach to families in need. He has previously worked in parishes across South Jersey and is known for his commitment to urban ministry and civic engagement.
Before he was ordained a priest, Father Guest worked as a lawyer, including with the Camden Center for Law and Social Justice.
“That is the way I got to know the City of Camden, and also the Church of Camden,” he said. “In many ways, my journey to the priesthood came not only with working with the poor, but also with those who serve the poor, especially the local clergy, priests and religious sisters here in the City of Camden. To be part of that here now as a pastor has given me great joy.”
Father Guest and Father Rocks agreed the appointment demonstrates Bishop Williams’ understanding of the needs unique to cities like Camden, Atlantic City, Pleasantville, Bridgeton and more.
“He is very much attuned to the importance of the Church being in these areas,” Father Guest said. “I think this appointment really shows his commitment to all of the cities in our Diocese and how we can bring the Gospel not only to those who are maybe poor and broken, but to lift up those who work in these communities.”
“I thank Bishop Williams for having such trust in me,” Father Guest said.
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