CHARIS NEW ECCLESIASTICAL ASSISTANT

Vatican, 16th February 2024

Last November, in Rome, Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa reiterated his joy for being at the side of the CCR for all these years. He added that he had to leave his post … but that he would not fail to pray for us.

Here already is one of the beautiful fruits of his prayer: With the approval of the Holy Father, the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life, which established CHARIS, has just appointed Monsignor Peter Leslie Smith as the new ecclesiastical assistant of our Service, effective February 12, 2024.

Born in 1958 in South Africa, after studying law and business, Bishop Peter came to live in the United States in 1983. A member of the new “People of Praise” community, he was ordained a priest in 2001, was consecrated Bishop in 2014. He has several degrees in Theology and Canon Law.  He is currently auxiliary bishop of Portland, Oregon. Until October 2023, he was a member of the CHARIS International Service of Communion, appointed by the Dicastery for the Laity. Bishop Peter lives with his Community.

We thank Bishop Peter for accepting this appointment.

We would also like to warmly thank Cardinal Cantalamessa for his faithful presence at our side, for his valuable advice… and for his prayer.