God's purpose and plan for Bishop-elect Misko

By Evelyn McNair, Retired

Bishop-elect James A. Misko is proof that God has a plan and purpose for each of us. I was fortunate to witness this plan unfold over 45 years, beginning with his enrollment in our parish school.  Young Misko’s parents prioritized Catholic education, fostering his participation in Catholic youth activities through his teen years and St. Edward’s University.  As a 1993 college graduate, James was a rising star in the corporate world. He developed management skills with employees, facilities, finances and budgets…all that would serve him well in a business career. But God was calling James to another purpose.

With a great deal of discernment, trust, and clergy mentors, he entered the seminary. Our parish witnessed his growth and spiritual maturity as a seminarian and Deacon, prior to his 2007 Ordination to Priesthood.  Answering God’s call, Father Misko honed his pastoral training as Parochial Vicar at St. Elizabeth’s/Pflugerville, Pastor of Christ the King/Belton and then as the Pastor of St. Louis Church & School, Austin.

For five years, I was privileged to be part of his St. Louis Church staff.  His faith foundation, his administrative acumen, his vision and collaborative leadership, so vital to a parish, were also a diocesan asset which Bishop Joe Vasquez saw when he appointed Misko as Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia.  God’s purpose for James, set in motion so many decades ago, will soon be a blessing for the Diocese of Tucson.  May his presence there be as fruitful for the faithful as he has been for the Diocese of Austin.