A letter from the bishop

Published: June 7, 2008

Bishop Anthony B. Taylor

Dear People of the Diocese of Little Rock,

I feel deeply moved by the trust the Lord has placed in me in choosing me to be your bishop. My episcopal motto, "The Humble Shall Inherit the Earth" (Ps 37:11), was quoted by Jesus as his third beatitude (Matt 5:5) and refers to those of humble circumstances. Jesus' preferential love of the poor and marginalized was courageous, not timid, and so also must we be if we are to be his faithful servants. Not to the exclusion of anyone, but in recognition that those in greatest need have the greatest claim on us.

The Diocese of Little Rock has a long and impressive history. It is a great honor to be included now in the ranks of my six predecessors who have served you and the Lord with such dedication in the past - particularly Bishops McDonald and Sartain, as well as Msgr. J. Gaston Hebert who has administered the diocese so ably these last two years. I have been praying for you every day since I learned of my appointment as your bishop on Tuesday of Holy Week, March 18, 2008. Please pray that the Lord will make me a good, holy bishop and fill me with all the gifts of the Holy Spirit as I begin my ministry among you, the flock now entrusted to my care.

God bless you all!

Anthony B. Taylor

Bishop of Little Rock