Bernard Joseph McLaughlin, American bishop (b. 1912)

Bishop Bernard Joseph McLaughlin (November 19, 1912 – January 5, 2015) was a prominent American prelate of the Roman Catholic Church whose life spanned over a century, marking a distinguished tenure of service within the ecclesiastical hierarchy. Renowned for his deep faith and commitment, Bishop McLaughlin dedicated decades to the Church, notably serving as the Auxiliary Bishop of Buffalo and concurrently holding the titular see of Mottola.

The Enduring Legacy of Bishop Bernard Joseph McLaughlin

Born on November 19, 1912, Bernard Joseph McLaughlin was ordained a priest on December 21, 1935, embarking on a remarkable journey of spiritual leadership that would last nearly 80 years. His episcopal appointment on December 28, 1968, saw him elevated to the rank of bishop, a role he fulfilled with steadfast dedication until his retirement on January 16, 1993. Bishop McLaughlin passed away on January 5, 2015, at the venerable age of 102, leaving behind a profound legacy of pastoral care and administrative excellence.

Auxiliary Bishop of Buffalo: A Pillar of Support

Bishop McLaughlin’s primary active role was as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo, a significant Catholic community located in Western New York. In this capacity, an auxiliary bishop provides essential support to the diocesan bishop, who serves as the ordinary, or chief shepherd, of the diocese. This role is crucial, particularly in large or populous dioceses like Buffalo, which require extensive pastoral and administrative oversight. An auxiliary bishop assists in various capacities, including:

• Performing episcopal functions such as ordinations, confirmations, and dedications.
• Representing the diocesan bishop at important events.
• Helping to manage the diverse administrative and pastoral needs of the diocese.
• Offering spiritual guidance and support to clergy and the faithful.

Bishop McLaughlin's long service as Auxiliary Bishop provided continuity and stability to the Diocese of Buffalo through several periods of change and growth.

The Significance of the Titular See of Mottola

In addition to his active service in Buffalo, Bishop McLaughlin was also assigned the titular see of Mottola. This designation means he was a titular bishop, holding the title of a bishop of a former diocese that no longer functions as a residential see. Such an assignment is common for auxiliary bishops, as well as for those serving in the Roman Curia or as papal nuncios. The historical see of Mottola was an ancient diocese located in Apulia, a region in southern Italy. It ceased to be a residential diocese in 1818 when its territory was merged with other dioceses. By granting a bishop a titular see like Mottola, the Roman Catholic Church acknowledges their episcopal dignity and membership in the College of Bishops, even if they do not govern a contemporary territorial diocese. This practice underscores the Church's historical continuity and its reverence for ancient Christian communities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bishop Bernard Joseph McLaughlin

Who was Bernard Joseph McLaughlin?

Bernard Joseph McLaughlin was an American prelate of the Roman Catholic Church who served as the Auxiliary Bishop of Buffalo and held the titular see of Mottola. He was known for his exceptionally long life and extensive service to the Church.

When was Bishop McLaughlin born and when did he pass away?

Bishop Bernard Joseph McLaughlin was born on November 19, 1912, and passed away on January 5, 2015, at the age of 102.

What is an Auxiliary Bishop?

An Auxiliary Bishop is a bishop appointed to assist a diocesan bishop (the ordinary) in the administration and pastoral care of a diocese, especially larger ones. They carry out episcopal functions but do not have the right of succession to the diocese.

What is a Titular See?

A Titular See refers to an ancient diocese that no longer exists as a residential or active diocese. Bishops who do not govern a territorial diocese, such as auxiliary bishops or Vatican officials, are often appointed to a titular see to signify their episcopal rank.

Where is Mottola?

Mottola is a commune located in the province of Taranto, within the Apulia region of southern Italy. Its ancient diocese was suppressed in 1818, but its name is preserved through its designation as a titular see.