Most Reverend Joseph A. Burke

9th Bishop of Buffalo (1952-1962)
“Let Your Will Be Done”

Bishop Joseph A. Burke was the first native of the Buffalo Diocese to become bishop here. He was baptized at St. Joseph’s Cathedral by Bishop Quigley.

He was consecrated as Auxiliary Bishop for Buffalo in 1943. In 1944 and in 1951 he served as administrator of the diocese until bishops were appointed. He was installed on April 30, 1952. In his 10 years as bishop, he gave his support to various groups, including the Holy Name, the Missions, Pre-Cana, Puerto Rican migrants, and displaced persons. He continued the expansion and construction of schools including Saint John Vianney Seminary in East Aurora.

Bishop Burke died in Rome during the first week of Vatican II in October 1962. His body is buried in the Bishops crypt at St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Buffalo.