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	Catholics React to New Bishop in Diocese of Scranton By Andy Palumbo WNEP February 23, 2010 http://www.wnep.com/news/countybycounty/wnep-scr-joseph-bambera-bishop-elect,0,1145704.story [with video] For only the second time in the history of the Diocese of Scranton, a native of the area has been chosen as bishop. Monsignor Joseph Bambera was born in Carbondale, has served parishes in Lackawanna County's mid valley and most recently has been handling administrative duties for the diocese since former Bishop Joseph Martino stepped down in August. The news went up on the Vatican web site at 6 a.m. Tuesday. Four hours later, Monsignor Joseph Bambera made his first statement as bishop-elect of the Diocese of Scranton, the third largest diocese in the Pennsylvania, behind Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. Parishioners attending 6:30 a.m. Mass at Saint Peter's Cathedral in Scranton reacted to Monsignor Bambera's appointment. "I am so happy. He is a wonderful priest and he will make a great bishop. I'm so happy the diocese has been given a good bishop," said Joan Holmes of Scranton. Many of the people at the early-morning Mass agreed. Those who know Bambera call him a good priest, someone who will bring the diocese together. Some have known him for years. "He is an absolutely outstanding person. Could not have made a better choice," said John Pieski of Dickson City. Bambera becomes the tenth bishop of Scranton and he will have a big set of challenges. Monsignor Bambera takes over at a critical time in the Diocese of Scranton. Dozens of schools and churches have been closed. The diocese is millions in debt. When asked what Bishop-elect Bambera should tackle first Cathy Pocius of Scranton said, "Financial situation. That's the biggest thing. Schools are another, and just working with the parishioners." "Schooling, getting the church back to where it should be," said Joey Latona of Pittston. Many believe Bishop Bambera will be a priest first, and tend to the spiritual needs of the people in the 11 county diocese. Auxiliary Bishop John Dougherty celebrated the 6:30 a.m. Mass. He said he is thrilled with Bambera's appointment. "All we can do today is rejoice and thank God from the bottom of our hearts because we have a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful bishop," said Bishop Dougherty. Bambera has been overseeing the diocese, under Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia since August, when Bishop Martino resigned. Bishop Dougherty feels those six months will translate into Bambera hitting the ground running as bishop of the Diocese of Scranton. Bambera becomes the tenth bishop of Scranton after an installation ceremony set for 2 p.m. April 26 at Saint Peter's Cathedral in Scranton.
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