Patrick James Zurek (born 17 August 1948) is an American prelate of the Catholic Church. He has served as Bishop of Amarillo since February 22, 2008. He previously served as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of San Antonio from 1998 to 2008.
Zurek served on the board of the directors of missions, the Assumption Seminary, and the Ad Hoc Committee for the Spanish-language Bible.[2] He also led the National Conference of Diocesan Vocation Directors.
As bishop, Zurek participated in numerous charity events, including one for 13 area Catholic schools that raised $230,000.[3] He has also appeared on television con-celebrating mass between the Archdiocese of San Antonio and the Archdiocese of Tegucigalpa in Honduras.[4]
Bishop of Amarillo
On January 3, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Zurek as bishop of the Diocese of Amarillo, replacing Bishop John Yanta.[5][6] Zurek was installed on February 22, 2008.[1] Zurek speaks five languages, including Czech, Italian and Spanish.
On January 31, 2019, the diocese released a list of 30 clergy with credible allegations of sexual abuse.[7] Zurek made this statement.
The Diocese of Amarillo seeks to express regret and apologizes for the failing and sins that have hurt the Church so deeply, especially in our most vulnerable members. The Diocese especially asks forgiveness for the failings of those who have held positions of leadership in the Church.[7]
