In Rome on Sept. 15, 2015, Pope Francis named Bishop James V. Johnston the 7th Bishop of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph. Upon the announcement, Bishop Johnston becomes the Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau until his installation as Bishop of Kansas City-St. Joseph on Nov. 4, 2015. At that time, the diocesan consultors will appoint another Administrator who will serve the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau until the Holy Father, Pope Francis, announces the next Shepherd for the Church in Southern Missouri. During this time of transition, let us keep in prayer Bishop James V. Johnston and both the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, all the clergy, religious, and lay faithful.