On behalf of the clergy, religious and laity of the Diocese of Camden, I extend our warmest and heartfelt congratulations to Bishop James F. Checchio on his recent appointment by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, as Coadjutor Archbishop of the Archdiocese of New Orleans. This appointment is a sign of confidence in Bishop Checchio’s pastoral gifts, his fidelity to the Church, and his capacity for leadership.
We rejoice that the Church has called a native son of Camden to such a significant role, and we take special pride in the path that brought him to this moment. Bishop Checchio’s family continues to be among our faithful in the Diocese, and his roots in our local Church run deep. He was baptized, received First Holy Communion, and was confirmed in the Diocese of Camden; his primary school education at St. John’s in Collingswood and his secondary education at Paul VI High School were part of the fabric of his formation here.
After discerning his vocation, he was accepted by our Diocese as a seminarian, and on June 20, 1992, he was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Camden by Bishop McHugh. As a priest of Camden, he served in parochial assignments and in diocesan offices, including as secretary to the bishop, vice chancellor, and other responsibilities – experiences that helped shape his pastoral outlook.
From those firm foundations in Camden, then-Monsignor Checchio went on to serve the Church in wider roles, including as rector of the Pontifical North American College, and later as Bishop of Metuchen.
We pray that the Lord abundantly blesses him in his new assignment. May the Holy Spirit guide him as he assists Archbishop Gregory Aymond, and may he be strengthened in zeal, wisdom, and pastoral charity. We also pledge our prayers and support for the people of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and we look forward to learning what the Lord will accomplish through him in the years to come.
May Our Lady of Prompt Succor intercede for Coadjutor Archbishop Checchio, and may Christ, the Good Shepherd, sustain him in his ministry.
Most Reverend Joseph A. Williams
Bishop of Camden
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