Hello everyone,

The Catholic Diocese of Palmerston North is pleased to share the following (long awaited) good news with you.  Pope Francis has chosen Fr John Adams to be the new bishop of Palmerston North. Bishop-elect John is a priest of the Diocese of Christchurch and is currently the Parish Priest of St. Peter Chanel Parish, Rangiora. Once ordained, he will be the third Bishop of Palmerston North.

John Lewis Adams was born in Christchurch. He attended Holy Cross Seminary in Auckland. He also holds a Diploma in Education from Christchurch Technical College, a Bachelor of Science in Geography from Canterbury University in New Zealand and an Advanced Diploma in Theology in Sydney, Australia.

Fr John was ordained a priest in 2003.  He has been an Assistant Priest, Parish Priest and Tertiary Chaplain.  He has also been a member of the Christchurch Diocesan Clergy Trust Fund and a member of the Council of Priests. In 2013 John was appointed the diocese’s Episcopal Vicar of Education and became a member of the College of Consultors in 2014.

John writes of himself – “I didn’t for a minute think I would ever be a priest, but I now know this vocation to be a rare adventure and I’m grateful to be living it.  My interests are varied; I enjoy a game of golf and used to play serious table tennis. My 25 years in the Cathedral Choir instilled in me a great love for music. My first degree was in Geography, and I retain a love of the outdoors and love to relax out in the wilderness when I can. I am also a trained teacher and still feel at home in the classroom. As Vicar for Education, I’m still heavily involved and have a strong interest in Catholic schooling”.   

We express our gratitude and warmest congratulations to Bishop-elect John as takes on this new role. His Ordination Mass will be announced, once details have been confirmed.

Please pray for John during this time of preparation, leading up to his ordination.

With every good wish and blessing,

Fr Craig Butler
Local Administrator (but not for long:)
Diocese of Palmerston North