Search
-
May 14, 2025The process of selecting candidates and naming a new bishop can take several months and involves consultation, discussion, and prayer. It is governed by strict confidentiality and involves several key individuals, including the apostolic nuncio and the Congregation for Bishops. The final decision rests with the Pope.
As required by Canon Law, the Diocese of Austin College of Consultors is necessary to appoint a Diocesan Administrator. Father James Misko has been appointed to this role.
The Diocesan Administrator, Father James Misko, possesses many of the same responsibilities as a diocesan bishop, but with certain limitations, particularly regarding decisions with long-term financial implications, the ordination of priests and deacons, and the appointment of pastors. A key aspect of this period of Sede Vacante is that the diocesan administrator governs with the mind of the previous bishop and, during this time, makes as few innovations to the overall mission of the diocese as possible.The Office of the Diocesan Administrator will end when the new bishop takes canonical possession of the diocese during the Mass of Installation or Ordination, typically within two months of the Holy Father's appointment of the new bishop.
We invite you to join us in prayer for Pope Leo as he discerns the appointment of our next bishop:Prayer for a new bishop
Almighty and ever-living God, grant our Holy Father wisdom in discernment as he chooses a new bishop for this local Church. By your divine providence, grant us a shepherd, after the heart of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, whose benevolent care and kindly zeal will strengthen the people of God by the light of the Gospel and the power of the sacraments.
Lord, as you now prepare to call our new bishop to the Diocese of Austin, give him courage and generosity to respond with a spirit of joyful hope. Invoking the intercession of our patroness, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, we ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.