Pope Leo XIV Appoints New Bishop for West Virginia Diocese in Latest U.S. Church Move

Pope Leo XIV is putting his mark on the U.S. Catholic Church through a steady stream of episcopal appointments. His latest: naming Bishop Evelio Menjivar-Ayala as the next bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, which covers all of West Virginia.

The appointment is one of several the new pope has made in recent weeks as he works to fill vacancies and set the direction of the American church. Observers say the choices signal a deliberate approach to leadership selection, though the full picture of Leo's priorities will take time to emerge.

The Wheeling-Charleston diocese has faced significant challenges in recent years, including financial and governance issues that drew national attention. Menjivar-Ayala's appointment is seen as part of an effort to stabilize the diocese and restore trust.

Pope Leo XIV, who took the name after his election earlier this year, has moved quickly on several fronts since becoming pontiff. His appointments to U.S. dioceses are being watched closely by Catholic leaders and observers who are trying to read the signals about his vision for the American church.

The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston covers a largely rural state with a small but active Catholic population. The new bishop will face the same challenges confronting many dioceses: declining Mass attendance, a shortage of priests, and the need to maintain services across a wide geographic area.

No date has been announced for Menjivar-Ayala's installation.