Full Breakdown
Pope Leo XIV Appoints Reverend James Misko as Bishop of Tucson
12/22/2025, 9:49:44 PM
Appointment Announcement
On December 22, 2025, Pope Leo XIV appointed Reverend James A. Misko as the new Bishop of Tucson, succeeding Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger, who was transferred to the Archdiocese of Detroit in March 2025. The announcement was made public in Washington, D.C. by Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the apostolic nuncio to the United States.
Background of Bishop-elect Misko
Reverend Misko, born on June 18, 1970, in Los Angeles, California, has a diverse background. He initially worked in the restaurant industry from 1991 to 2000 before pursuing a religious vocation. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from St. Edward University in Austin in 1993, followed by multiple theological degrees from the University of St. Thomas and St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston, culminating in his ordination as a priest on June 9, 2007. His previous assignments include serving as parochial vicar at St. Elizabeth of Hungary parish, administrator and pastor at Christ the King parish, and pastor at St. Louis King of France parish in Austin. Since 2019, he has held the position of vicar general and moderator of the curia for the Diocese of Austin and served as diocesan administrator from March to September 2025.
Transition in the Diocese of Tucson
Bishop Gerald Kicanas, who previously served as the Bishop of Tucson for 14 years before retiring in 2017, has been acting as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tucson since Archbishop Weisenburger's departure. He will continue in this role until Bishop-elect Misko's ordination and installation, scheduled for February 20, 2026. Bishop Kicanas expressed his confidence in Misko, stating, “We are blest that our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, sent a beautiful Christmas gift in the person of Bishop-elect James Misko.”
Significance of the Appointment
The appointment of Bishop-elect Misko is seen as a pivotal moment for the Diocese of Tucson, which has been under the leadership of Bishop Kicanas during the transitional period. Misko's experience and leadership within the Diocese of Austin are expected to bring continuity and stability to the Tucson diocese. His proficiency in both English and Spanish may also enhance community engagement in a diverse region.
Official Statements & Responses
The Diocese of Tucson released a statement welcoming Bishop-elect Misko, highlighting his extensive background and readiness to lead the diocese. Cardinal Pierre's announcement emphasized the importance of this appointment in the context of the Catholic Church's mission in the United States.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Upon learning of Bishop-elect Misko’s appointment, Bishop Kicanas said, “We are blest that our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, sent a beautiful Christmas gift in the person of Bishop-elect James Misko.” — Bishop Gerald Kicanas, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tucson.
This appointment marks a significant development in the leadership of the Diocese of Tucson, with expectations for positive contributions to the local Catholic community.
