The Texas Bishops, who gathered recently at the 2009 General Assembly, congratulate Archbishop Aymond, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, who served as the Bishop of the Diocese of Austin from January, 2001 to August, 2009.

Dear Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond:

As you begin your new Episcopal assignment, the entire Texas Catholic Conference would like to congratulate you on being named Archbishop for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. The Holy Father has blessed New Orleans with a native son who understands the people of Louisiana and will help guide the Church there as it faces the complex challenges of the twenty first century.

We will miss your presence here in Texas. Your generosity, leadership and pastoral service in the Diocese of Austin were an example and a joy for all of us, your brother Bishops. Your collegiality these past eight years will not be forgotten and rest assured that you will always be welcome in the Lone Star state.

Archbishop Aymond, we look forward to working with you in your new capacity. We pray that our Lord and Savior will always keep you in the palm of His hands.

Yours brothers in Christ,

The Bishops of Texas