A new bishop has been appointed to lead the Diocese of London, marking a significant transition for the region’s Catholic community. The Vatican announced Tuesday that Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Bishop Ronald Fabbro and appointed the Most Rev. Daniel Miehm as his successor. Miehm will serve as the 11th bishop of the diocese. He is currently the bishop of the Diocese of Peterborough, a position he has held since 2017. “Coming here to London is in some ways, it’s a bigger challenge because it’s a bigger diocese with a much greater Catholic population,” Miehm said. “And yet, I know there’s a great legacy here of, of, love for the church, support for the church.” He added that he looks forward to learning more about the diocese and its future. “You’ve got Saint Peter’s Seminary here, which has been so important in forming men for the priesthood. And I look forward to really in the next two months and a couple of years just entering life here and learning some of the rich history of this diocese and the hopes here for the church in the future.” Miehm said his priorities will include addressing social issues such as housing and continuing efforts to rebuild trust in the church. “I think we’ve all become aware, especially in recent years, of the housing crisis in the province of Ontario, and it’s something that the church has to be consumed with and involved in,” he said. “And I know that through various organizations like Saint Vincent de Paul and others, we’ve been really focused on trying to try to ease that situation and help people to find secure housing.” He also emphasized the importance of accountability. “Certainly, where trust has been lost in institutions, we need to show concern, transparency, and accountability and all that we do. And I know that’s been a focus for Bishop Farrow here in London, and I intend to continue that focus.” Fabbro has served as bishop of London since 2002 and submitted his resignation ahead of his 75th birthday in 2025, in accordance with canon law, which requires bishops and cardinals to offer their resignation at that age. Such resignations are not automatic retirements, as the Pope may ask a bishop to remain in office until a successor is appointed. Reflecting on his more than two decades leading the diocese, Fabbro said the role has been both challenging and rewarding. “When I look back on the past 24 years, I’m just filled with gratitude,” he said. “There was enough challenges over those years. There were some tough years, things that had to be addressed.” He pointed to the church’s response to abuse scandals as a defining part of his tenure. “One of the things for sure would be to the, the abuse scandals and, my commitment to meet with survivors,” Fabbro said. “And those were very, impactful for me as Bishop, to hear their stories and to listen to them. And I think it, shaped my, my whole Episcopal ministry.” Miehm is scheduled to be installed as bishop on June 29 at St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica in London.
