Br. Genadijus Linas V., OFM, Nominated Bishop of Panevezys (Lithuania).

ROME - The Holy Father Pope Francis today appointed Bishop Genadijus Linas Vodopjanovas, OFM, to become the Bishop of Panevezys (Lithuania). Br. Vodopjanovas was previously Titular Bishop of Quiza and Auxiliary of Telšiai (Lithuania). Br. Vodopjanovas is from St. Casimir Province in Lithuania, a member of the English Speaking Conference. Br. Vodopjanovas, OFM, was born on June 8, 1973 in Neringa (Nida). In 1991, after attending school in Nida, he entered postulancy with the friars in Kretinga. From 1992-1993 he completed his novitiate in Kennebunkport, Maine, and on June 4, 1993 made ​​his first vows. From 1993-1995, after returning to Lithuania, he attended the seminary in Kaunas, studying at Vytautas Magnus University. From 1995-2000, sent to complete his training in Italy, he studied at the Theological College of Friars Minor of San Bernardino Verona, affiliated to the Pontifical "Antonianum" University of Rome. On May 26, 2000 he received the title of Bachelor in Theology. On August 15, 1996 he professed solemn vows, choosing the name of Linas. On August 15, 1999 he was ordained to the diaconate and the priesthood July 15, 2000, by Bishop Antanas Vaicius, then Bishop of Telšiai. After ordination, Father Linas was Guardian of Kretinga Annunciation Friary in 2001 -2004. He was then appointed pastor of the parish of Kretinga from 2003-2004, when it became the Guardian of the Convent of the Hill of Crosses in Šiauliai. In 2007, he became Master of Novices and, finally, was elected Vicar Provincial of the Province. In 2010 he was assigned to the Parish of the Annunciation in Kretinga. On February 11, 2012 - at just 38 years of age - he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Telšiai and was consecrated on April 14.