The Catholic Church’s bishop-elect problem

What's going on with episcopal appointment interruptions?

When the Vatican announces the appointment of a new diocesan bishop, it’s typically an occasion for rejoicing among local Catholics.

A crozier, pictured at an episcopal ordination on March 20, 2009. © Mazur/catholicchurch.org.uk.

They may have had to wait months, even years, for a new shepherd, and are likely to feel a sense of relief that the vacancy is …