Key Takeaways
- Pope Leo XIV has appointed Reverend James A. Misko as the Bishop of Tucson.
- Bishop-elect Misko currently serves as vicar general and moderator of the curia for the Diocese of Austin.
- He was born on June 18, 1970, in Los Angeles, California, and was ordained to the priesthood on June 9, 2007.
- Bishop-elect Misko has held various assignments, including parochial vicar, administrator, and pastor of several parishes in the Diocese of Austin.
- He is a native speaker of English and is proficient in Spanish.
Introduction to the Appointment
The Catholic Church has recently announced the appointment of a new bishop to the Diocese of Tucson. Pope Leo XIV has selected Reverend James A. Misko, a priest of the Diocese of Austin, to fill this important role. The appointment was publicly announced in Washington, D.C. on December 22, 2025, by Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the apostolic nuncio to the United States. This significant appointment is expected to have a profound impact on the Catholic community in Tucson, and Bishop-elect Misko’s extensive experience and qualifications make him an ideal candidate for the position.
Biographical Background of Bishop-elect Misko
To understand the significance of this appointment, it is essential to examine the biographical background of Bishop-elect Misko. He was born on June 18, 1970, in Los Angeles, California, and has a diverse educational and professional background. Before pursuing a career in the priesthood, Father Misko earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from St. Edward University in Austin in 1993. He then worked in the restaurant industry from 1991 to 2000, gaining valuable experience in a non-ecclesiastical setting. Father Misko’s decision to pursue a career in the priesthood led him to earn a Master of Arts in theological studies, a Master of Divinity, and a Bachelor of Sacred Theology in 2007 at the University of St. Thomas and St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston.
Priestly Assignments and Experience
Bishop-elect Misko’s priestly assignments have provided him with a wealth of experience in various roles within the Catholic Church. After his ordination to the priesthood on June 9, 2007, he served as parochial vicar of St. Elizabeth of Hungary parish in Pflugerville from 2007 to 2010. He then went on to serve as administrator and pastor of Christ the King parish in Belton from 2010 to 2014. Father Misko’s subsequent assignment was as pastor of St. Louis King of France parish in Austin from 2014 to 2019. Since 2019, he has served as vicar general and moderator of the curia for the Diocese of Austin, a role that has provided him with valuable administrative experience. Additionally, from March to September 2025, he served as diocesan administrator for the diocese, further demonstrating his capabilities as a leader within the Church.
Language Skills and Future Role
As a native speaker of English, Bishop-elect Misko is well-equipped to communicate effectively with the Catholic community in Tucson. His proficiency in Spanish will also enable him to connect with the significant Hispanic population in the region. As the newly appointed Bishop of Tucson, Bishop-elect Misko will be responsible for guiding the spiritual growth and development of the diocese. His extensive experience, combined with his language skills and educational background, make him an ideal candidate to lead the Catholic community in Tucson. As he assumes his new role, Bishop-elect Misko will undoubtedly bring a unique perspective and set of skills to the position, shaping the future of the Diocese of Tucson.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
The appointment of Reverend James A. Misko as the Bishop of Tucson marks a significant milestone in the history of the Catholic Church. With his diverse background, extensive experience, and language skills, Bishop-elect Misko is well-equipped to lead the diocese and foster spiritual growth within the community. As he prepares to assume his new role, the Catholic community in Tucson can look forward to a bright future under his guidance. The appointment of Bishop-elect Misko serves as a reminder of the Church’s commitment to nurturing and developing its leaders, ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of the Catholic faith. As the Church moves forward, the leadership and vision of Bishop-elect Misko will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping the future of the Diocese of Tucson.
