Episcopal appointment of Ronilton Souza de Araújo, S.C.J.

Rome, July 19, 2023

Dear confreres,

On July 19, 2023, the Holy Father appointed Fr. Ronilton Souza de Araújo, S.C.J., Bishop of the Diocese of São Raimundo Nonato, Piauí State, Brazil. He will succeed Bishop Eduardo Zielski.

Mgr. Ronilton Souza de Araújo was born on March 23, 1967, in Ituiutaba, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. A member of the Brazil São Paulo Province (BSP), he made his first vows on February 25, 1995 in Jaraguá do Sul and perpetual vows in 2002 in the city of Lavras. He was ordained deacon on February 24, 2002 and priest on December 7 of the same year in Ituiutaba. He graduated in Philosophy from the Fundação Educacional de Brusque in 1997 and in Theology from the Faculdade Dehoniana in Taubaté in 2002. In 2005, he attended the course for formators of the Congregation in Rome.

After his ordination, he was assigned to the community in Santa Luzia, state of Maranhão. Later, he was assigned to formative work at the São Judas Tadeu Seminary in Terra Boa, State of Paraná.

For two terms, between 2010 and 2015, he was Superior of the Brazil São Luís District (BSL). Then, also for two terms, between 2015 and 2021, he was Superior of the Brazil São Paulo Province.

At the end of his mandate, he was assigned to the community in Tapurah, Mato Grosso. At present he belongs to the community of Macapá, State of Amapá, Amazon region, where he collaborates with parish work.

The announcement is a reason to rejoice in the Church’s recognition of one of our religious who has lived his service to the Gospel with fraternity and with great willingness throughout his journey, especially in missionary areas.

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus continue to be Bishop Ronilton’s school, so that from his episcopal ministry he may be a faithful witness of God’s love and mercy among his people.

Fr. Carlos Luis Suárez Codorniú, scj
General Superior