Pope Leo Appoints the First Ever Nicaraguan-Born Bishop in the US (Morning Air)

This Morning Air episode is full of humble surprises, historic firsts, and a vocation story that will have your heart doing somersaults. John Morales sits down with Bishop-Elect Pedro Bismarck Chau for a moving conversation about his appointment, his journey, and what God’s up to in his life right now. Bishop-Elect Chau first heard the life-changing news on April 15, smack in the middle of a packed schedule. He got that call from the Apostolic Nuncio saying Pope Francis (yes, just before his passing) had appointed him Auxiliary Bishop of Newark. 😮 “I was speechless… but how can I say no to God?” 🙏 A Call Within a Call He was only ordained in 2008, and yet... here he is! Bishop-Elect Chau sees this moment as a “call within a call” ... a deeper plunge into the priesthood he loves. “It was humbling… my brother priests and laypeople saw something in me I didn’t even see in myself.” Let’s pause and appreciate that humble gratitude. This man's heart is ALL in.  🌎 History-Making Moment He’s the first-ever Nicaraguan-born bishop in the U.S.  His appointment is already stirring up hope across Nicaragua and among exiles. For a people who’ve suffered much, this feels like God whispering, “I am still with you.” 🛤️ A Winding Journey to the Altar Born in Nicaragua, Chau came to the U.S. at age 16, undocumented, to escape conscription. His road to the priesthood wasn’t direct; he worked, earned his GED, and he even stopped going to Mass for a while. But… ✝️ A youth retreat and a brother’s conversion rekindled his faith. ✝️ A deacon’s visit made him see himself in the collar. ✝️ A priest’s vocation story (shoutout to retreats!) sealed the deal. Still, he waited to begin seminary until he had legal status; he didn’t want to abuse the system.   💬 What’s Next? (Besides the Mitre) He's all in for Newark, excited to celebrate with his family and parishioners he’s served for years. He’ll be using both English and Spanish to shepherd his flock.  Let's pray for Bishop-Elect Pedro Bismarck Chau as he prepares for his September ordination! 🙏 The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.