Francis Frederick Reh (January 9, 1911 – November 14, 1994) was an American prelate of the Roman Catholic church. He served as bishop of the Diocese of Charleston in South Carolina from 1962 to 1964.
One of two children, Francis Reh was born on January 9, 1911, in the Bronx, New York, to Gustave A. and Elizabeth (née Hartnagel) Reh.[1] His father worked as a truant officer for the New York City Board of Education.[1]
After returning to New York City in 1939, Reh served as assistant chancellor of the archdiocese and associate pastor at St. Patrick's Cathedral Parish for two years.[3] From 1941 to 1951, he was professor of moral theology and canon law at St Joseph's Seminary.[1] He also served as defender of the bond on the archdiocesan tribunal. He became vice-chancellor in 1951.[4]
On June 6, 1962, Reh was appointed the ninth bishop of the Diocese of Charleston by John XXIII.[2] He received his episcopalconsecration on June 29, 1962, from Cardinal Spellman, with Archbishop John Maguire and Bishop John Fearns serving as co-consecrators.[2][1] At his consecration, Reh wore the same vestments used by Spellman and Pius XII at their own consecrations.[5]
Between 1962 and 1965, Reh attended all four sessions of the Second Vatican Council in Rome.
Rector of North American College
On September 5, 1964, Reh was named to succeed Bishop Martin O'Connor as rector of the North American College.[2][6] He was appointed titular bishop of Macriana in Mauretania on the same date.[2]
Bishop of Saginaw
On December 11, 1968, Reh was appointed bishop of the Saginaw diocese by Pope Paul VI. As bishop, Reh instituted a formation program for lay people that was the first in the United States. He also supervised renovations to the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption in Saginaw.[7]
Retirement
On April 29, 1980, Pope John Paul II accepted Reh's resignation as bishop of Saginaw. He was succeeded by Reverend Kenneth Untener.[2] Francis Reh died in Saginaw on October 14, 1994 at age 83.[2]