When Bishop Melczek turned 75, he had to turn in his resignation form for to the pope his retirement by Church law, meaning this upcoming graduation mass for the seniors will be one of his last graduation masses as bishop. As of right now a candidate hasn’t been chosen to replace Bishop Melczek.

“Candidates for bishops’ seats are not really public. Local and national Church leaders will recommend a few people to the pope, and Francis will choose the next bishop.”

Usually the bishop doesn’t retire from his seat until a new bishop for the diocese has been chosen. Best wishes for Bishop Melczek and for his upcoming retirement with the gift basket we gave him at the last Thanksgiving mass.