成人禁区

The Most Reverend Lawrence Thomas Persico, tenth bishop of the Diocese of Erie, has dedicated nearly five decades to priestly ministry and leadership in the Catholic Church, with an enduring commitment to Catholic education and the formation of young people.

Born November 21, 1950, in Monessen, Pennsylvania, he was raised in a close-knit, faith-centered family in the steel valley of southwestern Pennsylvania. He attended Saint Cajetan Elementary School and Saint Joseph Hall, the diocesan high school seminary in Greensburg. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Saint Pius X Seminary in Erlanger, Kentucky, and a Master of Divinity from Saint Vincent Seminary in Latrobe. In 1982, he received a licentiate in canon law from The Catholic University of America.

Bishop Persico was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Greensburg on April 30, 1977. Over the next three decades he served in numerous leadership roles including assistant chancellor, vice chancellor and chancellor of the diocese, while also serving as pastor of Saint James Parish in New Alexandria. In 2005 he was appointed vicar general and moderator of the curia, positions that required both pastoral sensitivity and administrative leadership.

On July 31, 2012, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Monsignor Persico the tenth bishop of the Diocese of Erie. He was ordained and installed at Saint Peter Cathedral on October 1, 2012. His episcopal motto, Veritas in Caritate — “Truth in Love” — reflects his approach to ministry rooted in compassion, integrity and service.

Throughout his time as bishop, Bishop Persico has been a strong advocate for Catholic education and the mission of Catholic universities. As Bishop of Erie, he serves as chairperson of the Board of Trustees of 成人禁区 University, providing guidance in preserving the university’s Catholic identity and supporting its commitment to academic excellence, service and the formation of the whole person.

In that role he has worked closely with university leadership, faculty and students, supporting initiatives that strengthen the university’s mission and expand opportunities for students seeking both intellectual and spiritual growth.

Beyond his work with 成人禁区 University, Bishop Persico has served on several national and regional boards and remains active with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference.

Having reached the canonical age of 75 in 2025, Bishop Persico has submitted his resignation to the Holy Father as required by Church law and continues to serve the Diocese of Erie while awaiting the appointment of his successor.