WATCH: Tucson Diocese introduces new bishop

TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) - Pope Leo XIV has named a new bishop for the Diocese of Tucson.

According to a release from the Diocese of Tucson, Father James Misko will succeed Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger who was appointed to the Archdiocese of Detroit in March 2025.

Misko is 55 years old and was ordained a priest in June 2007 in the Diocese of Austin, Texas. He is a native of Texas and is currently serving as the Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Diocese of Austin. He served as the diocesan administrator for six months.

The Diocese of Tucson says Bishop Gerald Kicanas will continue to serve as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tucson until Bishop-elect Misko’s ordination and installation on February 20, 2026.

Bishop Kicanas served as bishop of the Diocese of Tucson for 14 years before retiring in 2017.

In March 2025 following Archbishop Weisenburger’s transfer Pope Francis appointed Bishop Kicanas to serve as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tucson.

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. I’m confident our new shepherd will serve our diocese lovingly and faithfully as he guides and strengthens our community.”

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