Bishop of Joliet Diocese takes medical leave of absence

Chronicle Media

Bishop R. Daniel Conlon

Bishop R. Daniel Conlon, leader of the Diocese of Joliet, has received permission from His Holiness, Pope Francis, to take a medical leave of absence, that began on Dec. 27, 2019.

During his absence, Bishop Richard E. Pates, Bishop Emeritus of Des Moines, will serve as apostolic administrator of the diocese.

In a statement, Bishop Conlon expressed his deep affection for the clergy, religious and laity of the Diocese of Joliet and will keep them in his prayers during his time away. He also asks for their prayers.

The statement did not specify reasons for the leave of absence.

The Joliet Diocese includes DuPage, Will and Kendall counties along with Grundy, Iroquois and Ford counties.

“I applaud Bishop R. Daniel Conlon for undertaking a program to address his health concerns. He is a good bishop and will benefit from his time away,” Bishop Pates said in a statement.

“As I begin services as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Joliet, I welcome the opportunity to journey with the priests, deacons, religious and laity of this local Church,” he added.