Dom Orlando Brandes expressed gratitude during a press conference after stepping down as archbishop of Aparecida, reflecting on his decade of service and learning from the community.
Dom Orlando Brandes held a press conference at the National Shrine of Our Lady Aparecida following the appointment of his successor, Dom Mário Antônio da Silva, by Pope Leo XIV. He confirmed that there is currently no set date for the new archbishop to take over, explaining that Dom Mário is entitled to a two-month preparation period before officially assuming his position in the archdiocese.
Having served as the fifth archbishop of Aparecida since 2016, Brands took the opportunity to convey his gratitude to both God and the local community for their support throughout his tenure. He noted that his time in the role was marked by significant learning experiences, highlighting the importance of the people's engagement in his journey. He expressed a heartfelt appreciation for the lessons he gained from the community that he served.
As Brandes transitions from his position, his reflections emphasize the deep bond and lessons learned from the congregation he led for a decade. The archbishop's acknowledgment of the community's impact suggests a model for future church leadership focused on listening and learning from parishioners. The arrival of Dom Mário Antônio da Silva marks a new chapter for the archdiocese, and Brandes' farewell serves as a reminder of the enduring connections between church leaders and their communities in Brazil.
