Pope Leo XIV Appoints Father Ralph O’Donnell as New Bishop

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Father Ralph O’Donnell as the new Bishop-Elect for the Diocese of Jefferson City. This announcement follows a press release detailing the appointment, which is a significant development for the diocese and its community.

The Diocese of Jefferson City will hold a press conference on Tuesday at 13:00 local time at the Cathedral of St. Joseph, located on W. Main Street in Jefferson City. This event will provide an opportunity for the community to welcome its new bishop and learn more about his vision for the diocese.

Father O’Donnell, originally from Omaha, Nebraska, was ordained as a priest in 1997. He has served as the pastor of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Omaha, where he has built a reputation for community engagement and spiritual leadership. In a statement regarding his appointment, O’Donnell expressed his gratitude to Pope Leo XIV, stating, “I’m grateful to the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, for this appointment. I look forward to coming to know and to serve the people of the Diocese of Jefferson City with joy. Let us pray for one another in the days ahead.”

O’Donnell’s selection marks a pivotal moment for the diocese, as he becomes the fifth bishop to lead the community following the tenure of Most Reverend Shawn McKnight. McKnight was appointed as the Archbishop of Kansas City, Kansas, in May 2023, after being chosen by the late Pope Francis in April of the same year.

As the Diocese of Jefferson City prepares to embrace its new leadership, the community looks forward to the spiritual guidance that Father O’Donnell will bring. His commitment to service and connection with parishioners is expected to foster a renewed sense of hope and engagement within the diocese.

This transition in leadership is part of a broader effort within the Catholic Church to strengthen local communities and enhance pastoral care. As O’Donnell steps into this role, he is poised to address the needs and aspirations of the faithful in Jefferson City and beyond.