US EditionPope Leo XIV Appoints Omaha Native as New Missouri Bishop
Father Ralph B. O'Donnell, 55, brings extensive pastoral and administrative experience to lead Jefferson City's diocese after Archbishop McKnight's elevation in May, Vatican announced.
- On August 19, 2025, Father Ralph O'Donnell, originally from Omaha, was named bishop of Jefferson City by Pope Leo XIV.
- The appointment comes after Archbishop Shawn McKnight took on his new role leading the Kansas City diocese earlier in May, leaving the position that O'Donnell will now assume.
- Ordained in 1997, O'Donnell has held leadership positions within the archdiocese, including directing the U.S. bishops' Secretariat, and currently leads the parish community at St. Margaret Mary in Omaha.
- O'Donnell expressed his appreciation for being appointed by Pope Leo XIV and is eager to serve and connect with the community in Jefferson City.
- The appointment makes O'Donnell the fifth bishop of the diocese and suggests continuity of pastoral leadership following McKnight's departure.
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Omaha priest appointed new bishop of Jefferson City by Pope Leo XIV
Pope Leo XIV appointed O'Donnell as the fifth Bishop of Jefferson City on Tuesday.In a press release from the Diocese of Jefferson City, Fr. O'Donnell shared this statement:"Im 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."Fr. Ralph O'Donnell is the current pastor at St. Margaret Mar…
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