Meet our Bishop
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His Excellency, Most Rev. Jerome Feudjio
Appointed by Pope Francis in 2021, Bishop Feudjio became the first African-born Bishop in the United States. He brings a wealth of experience, a multicultural perspective, and a deep commitment to serving God's people.
With roots in Cameroon and decades of service in our diocese, Bishop Feudjio uniquely understands the needs and aspirations of our island community. His vision for our diocese emphasizes spiritual growth, community outreach, and fostering a deeper understanding of the faith, especially through the Mass Media and liturgical celebrations.
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Biography
Early Life and Education
Born on September 30, 1955, in Nkongsamba, Cameroon, Jerome Feudjio's journey in faith began at an early age. He graduated from St. Albert Catholic School in Dschang, Cameroon, in 1967, and later received a degree in bookkeeping from St. John College of the Christian Brothers of Quebec in Mbanga, Cameroon, in 1972.
Answering the call to priesthood, Bishop Feudjio began his religious formation with the Priests of the Sacred Heart in 1972. He pursued his studies at Saint Apostles Seminary in Otelé and the Major Seminary of Nkolbison in Yaoundé, Cameroon, completing his initial theological education in 1979.
Formation and Theological Studies
In 1980, a providential meeting with Reverend Sean O'Malley in Washington, D.C., led Bishop Feudjio to continue his studies in the United States. He completed his philosophical and theological studies for the priesthood at Oblate College, part of the Washington Theological Consortium.Path to Priesthood
Bishop Feudjio's journey included a period with the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, making his temporary religious profession in 1987. His diverse experiences included studying Administration of Justice at Southern Illinois University and serving as a campus minister at Sts. Peter & Paul School in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.Ordination and Ministry
On September 29, 1990, Jerome Feudjio was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of St. Thomas by Bishop Sean O'Malley at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral. His ministry in the diocese has been marked by dedicated service in various capacities:- Parochial vicar at the cathedral parish and Saint Anne's Chapel (1990-1997)
- Teacher and assistant principal at Sts. Peter & Paul School (1992-1997)
- Diocesan finance officer and director of vocations (1996-2004)
- Administrator and later Rector of Saints Peter & Paul Cathedral (1997-2004, 2008-2021)
- Vicar for clergy and religious (2001-2021)
- Chancellor of the diocese (2002-2004)
- Pastor of Holy Family Parish (2004-2008)
- Vicar General (2008-2021)
In recognition of his service, Pope John Paul II named him a Monsignor, Chaplain of His Holiness in 2002.Episcopal Appointment and Consecration
On March 2, 2021, Pope Francis appointed Jerome Feudjio as the Bishop of Saint Thomas. His episcopal consecration took place on April 17, 2021, at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Cardinal Wilton Gregory served as the principal consecrator, with Cardinal Sean O'Malley and Cardinal Donald Wuerl as co-consecrators.
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Coat of Arms: Description and Meaning
To the viewer's left is a display of the arms of the Diocese of St Thomas in the Virgin Islands, and to the right, the personal arms of Bishop Jerome Feudjio. In the chief green field is the blue and silver (white) letter “M”, an emblem of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The center field of red speaks of the dignity of St Jerome, the patron of Bishop Feudjio. The base field of gold carries the "tree of peace" of Cameroon, and the banner carries the Bishop's motto.
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Support the Bishop's Appeal
Our annual fundraising campaign enables the diocese to carry out its vital ministries and services. Support our faith formation programs, Catholic education, social services for those in need, and the maintenance of our parish structures.
DONATE NOW
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Featured Video:Mass of the Episcopal Ordination and Installation of Most Rev. Jerome Feudjio as Bishop of the Diocese of St Thomas in the Virgin Islands.
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