How are Bishops Made?

Some folks have asked me what is the process for naming the new Bishop of Fall River.  Periodically the Bishops of the Boston Province meet and discuss candidates for the office of Bishop.  This is called the Provincial List and it is sent to the Nuncio or papal representative in Washington.  Certain of these candidate may be vetted by making confidential inquires of laypersons and clergy asking if they thought Father has the qualities to be a bishop.  The Nuncio sometimes asks for the names of two or three others who might know the priest.  Sometimes nothing happens with those names.  Other times they are seen as potential candidates once a diocese needs a new bishop.  In our case, the bishop has reached his 75th birthday and, in accord with church law, has submitted his resignation.  It has not yet been accepted but I presume the process is underway.  Now the process gets more specific.  The question is not whether the priest would make a good bishop but rather who would make a good bishop for Fall River.  The bishops of the province (and maybe neighboring dioceses like Providence) will be asked to suggest candidates.  These can be priests or bishops.  The Nuncio may also consult clergy and laity.  Eventually the Nuncio will suggest three names to the Congregation of Bishops.  This Congregation then can accept the list (called a terna) or modify the list or reject the list and ask for new candidates.  Eventually the selected candidate's name is sent to the Holy Father for his approval.  Sometimes it takes only a few months but it could take many months, if not years. So that's how it goes.

Msgr. Daniel F. Hoye