June 29, 2026

This week, our Diocese will celebrate a joyful and historic moment as Bishop Evelio Menjivar-Ayala is formally installed as the Tenth Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston. Such occasions are more than administrative transitions. They remind us of the apostolic foundation of the Church and the important role bishops play in the life of every Catholic.

The office of bishop goes back to the earliest days of Christianity. The Apostles, chosen by Christ Himself, were entrusted with teaching, sanctifying, and governing the Church. Through the laying on of hands, this mission has been handed down from generation to generation in what the Church calls Apostolic Succession. Every bishop today stands within that unbroken line reaching back to the Apostles.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: “Bishops have by divine institution taken the place of the apostles as pastors of the Church” (CCC 862). Their ministry is not merely one of administration or leadership. Bishops are successors of the Apostles, called to proclaim the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and shepherd the People of God entrusted to their care.

Each bishop serves as the chief shepherd of a diocese. He teaches the faith, ordains priests and deacons, oversees the pastoral mission of the local Church, and works to preserve the unity of the faithful. The bishop is also a visible sign of the Church’s communion with the Holy Father and the universal Church throughout the world.

For us at the Cathedral, the arrival of a new bishop carries particular significance. As the Mother Church of the Diocese, the Cathedral is the seat of the bishop, known as the cathedra, from which the word “cathedral” is derived. The bishop is not only the shepherd of the diocese; he is also, in a unique way, the pastor of the Cathedral parish.

The Second Vatican Council beautifully described bishops as “vicars and ambassadors of Christ” (Lumen Gentium, 27). Their ministry is meant to reflect the care of the Good Shepherd, who knows His flock and lays down His life for them.

Throughout Scripture, we see how important faithful shepherds are to the people of God. The Lord Himself promises, “I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding” (Jeremiah 3:15). This verse has long been associated with the ministry of bishops and remains a fitting prayer whenever a new shepherd is entrusted with the care of a diocese.

As we prepare to welcome Bishop Evelio, let us pray for him and for the Diocese he will serve. The responsibilities placed upon a bishop are great, and the challenges facing the Church today are many. Yet Christ remains faithful to His Church, continuing to guide His people through the ministry of those called to serve as successors of the Apostles.

May we welcome our new bishop with gratitude, support him with our prayers, and work alongside him in the mission of bringing the Gospel to all.