Three days after his dismissal and showing himself active, the prelate presided over the recitation of the Rosary outside the premises where the plenary assembly of the American Episcopate was being held in Baltimore.
During Bishop Strickland’s more than 10 years of leadership in Tyler, the diocese experienced some significant changes, including the 2018 resignation of three diocesan officials, a decision the Bishop noted at the time would put the diocese in a better position. position to fulfill its mission.
The Bishop’s time in service also had several positive signs of spiritual and administrative health in Tyler. Currently, there are 21 candidates for the priesthood for a territory of almost 120 thousand Catholics. The diocese is also in good financial shape, in part due to its ability to raise 99% of its $2.3 million goal for the 2021 “Bishop’s Appeal,” six months ahead of schedule.