33. John Barres

Bishop John O. Barres is no stranger to New York’s faithful. Pope
Francis’ pick to lead the sixth-largest diocese in the nation was
born in upstate Larchmont, and has fond memories of visiting
Long Island throughout his childhood. Whether on Long Island
or in Allentown, Pa., where he served prior to replacing Bishop
William Murphy, who led the Rockville Centre Diocese for 15
years, Barres shares his devotion to Christ and the Catholic
Church’s teachings through love and understanding. At his introduction
to Long Islanders in December, Barres spoke passionately
about parish life and the power of people to make a difference in
the world. A Princeton University graduate, he was ordained in
1989. The fifth bishop to lead the Diocese of Rockville Centre,
this extraordinary holy man is now shepherding a congregation
encompassing 1.4 million Catholics and 56 schools. He does so
guided by the Holy Spirit, with our utmost faith in his mission.