On my appointment as Bishop of the Diocese of Novo mesto, I sincerely thank the Holy Father Pope Francis for his trust. A thank-you to the Apostolic Nuncio to the Republic of Slovenia, Archbishop Msgr Jean-Marie Speich.

I accept the episcopal ministry in faith in the triune God and His grace and help. I am aware of my fragility and responsibility for this mission and that the proclamation of the Gospel and the growth of the Kingdom of God on earth require cooperation. I thank the first bishop of Novo mesto, Msgr Andrej Glavan, to establish the diocese and for all his work. I thank my late parents for passing on the gifts of life and faith and all those I grew up with who walked the path of life with me. In my twenty-nine years of priesthood, I have experienced God’s blessing and many beautiful things in trusting God’s help, and I am also accepting the new mission.

I greet all the bishops, priests, religious, the lay faithful and all the inhabitants of the diocese. I especially remember all the sick and the suffering. Thank you for the prayers you have offered for a new bishop, for the diocese of Novo mesto and the Church. I count on you all and ask you for your help, cooperation, understanding and support.

I greet the sister Christian churches and other religious communities, and civil authorities. I look forward to working with you in pursuit of the common good. We live in a world of trials and new challenges, and only together can we do some good to realise truth and justice, honesty, and peace.

The episcopal consecration will take place on Sunday, September 26, 2021, in the afternoon. The location of ordination will be chosen later. Information on ordination will be available at the Diocese of Novo mesto. In addition, I will be available for possible talks after the ordination.

Novo mesto, June 30, 2021

 Msgr Dr Andrej Saje

Appointed Bishop of Novo mesto