Monsignor Geraldo Ramírez Torres installed as new Bishop of Ponce

By THE STAR STAFF

Monsignor Geraldo Ramírez Torres was ordained Saturday as the new bishop of the Diocese of Ponce during a ceremony held at the Sports and Cultural Complex of the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico.

The event was attended by Governor Jenniffer Aydin González Colón, former governors, Ponce Mayor Marlese Sifre Rodríguez, as well as mayors, legislators and religious and political leaders.

In his first message as bishop, Ramírez Torres expressed gratitude for his vocation and remembered his late parents, Andrés and Emma, and his brother Pascual. He also thanked his siblings and the Marist religious community for their support throughout his priestly ministry.

The new bishop expressed gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for entrusting him with the leadership of the Diocese of Ponce, particularly as the diocese celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Ramírez Torres asked for wisdom and emphasized that his episcopal ministry must be based on service rather than power.

“I humbly ask the Lord to grant me a gentle heart, capable of discerning His will before seeking my own criteria,” he said.

Governor González Colón presented him with a recognition for his years of service, while Mayor Sifre highlighted his longstanding ties to Ponce.

Since 2007, Ramírez Torres had served as chaplain for Puerto Rico’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. He has also served as vicar general of the Diocese of Ponce, a member of the Presbyteral Council and College of Consultors, spiritual director of the Cursillo Movement, and pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Cathedral.