Pope Leo XIV appointed Father James Misko as the eighth bishop of the Diocese of Tucson on Dec. 23. Father Misko was ordained a priest in 2007 and served at St. Elizabeth Parish in Pflugerville, Christ the King Parish in Belton, and St. Louis Parish in Austin. In 2019, he was appointed vicar general and moderator of the curia, and in 2025 he served as diocesan administrator during the period of sede vacante before Bishop Daniel Garcia’s installation in September.

Bishop Garcia congratulated Bishop-elect Misko and thanked him for his service to the Diocese of Austin.

“The Diocese of Austin has benefitted greatly from the many years of priestly ministry Father James has given to this local church. While he will be missed, we know that he will shepherd the people of the Diocese of Tucson with his many gifts and joyful love for our Lord!” he said.

Bishop-elect Misko will be ordained and installed as the bishop of Tucson on Feb. 20.