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Pope Leo XIV Names Bishop Michael Saporito to Lead Diocese of Metuchen
Confirmed
In Short: Bishop Michael Saporito has been appointed by Pope Leo XIV to lead the Diocese of Metuchen, ending a nearly one-year wait.
The Vatican announced on September 15 that Bishop Michael Saporito, born on May 3, 1962, in Newark, New Jersey, would take over as the new bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen, effective immediately. This appointment comes after a brief period of administration by an interim leader and marks the end of a nearly one-year wait for a new bishop.
According to the Vatican announcement, Saporito will replace Bishop Francis Malone, who resigned at the age of 75, as required by bishops. Malone had previously served as the bishop of Shreveport, Louisiana, before his resignation.
Bishop Saporito has a long history of service within the Archdiocese of Newark, where he was ordained a priest on May 30, 1992. He has served in various parishes throughout the archdiocese, demonstrating his dedication to the faith and community.
In his new role, Saporito will lead the Diocese of Metuchen, which has been under the administration of an interim leader since November 2025. The diocese, previously led by Bishop James Checchio from 2016 to 2025, saw Checchio become the archbishop of New Orleans in 2026 after a brief period as its coadjutor archbishop.
In a statement, Bishop Saporito expressed his gratitude and humility at the appointment, saying, 'I am deeply grateful and humbled by this appointment and look forward to meeting the priests, deacons, religious, and lay faithful of the diocese.' His extensive experience in ministry throughout North Jersey is expected to guide the diocese effectively in the coming years.
What's confirmed
- Pope Leo XIV has appointed Newark, New Jersey, auxiliary bishop Michael Saporito as the new bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen, New Jersey.
- Checchio became the archbishop of New Orleans in 2026 after a brief period as its coadjutor archbishop.
What's still developing
- Bishops are required to submit their resignations to the pope at the age of 75.