Dr. Guilherme Lopes Named New Director of St. Rita Shrine

Dr. Guilherme Lopes has begun his first month as the executive director of the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia in South Philadelphia.

Lopes, a native of Brazil, previously directed campus ministry at Cabrini and Neumann universities. He succeeds the previous leadership at the shrine, which is located on Broad Street and has operated for 119 years under the Augustinian tradition.

Lopes stated that his decision to accept the position followed a period of discernment and observation of the shrine's ministry. He noted the work of Sacred Music Director Brooklyn McLaury Evangelista and the preaching of Augustinian Father Robert Guessetto during his transition into the role.