Polish National Catholic Church Seeks New Bishop for Central Diocese Amid Leadership Transition

The Polish National Catholic Church, a denomination that separated from the Roman Catholic Church 125 years ago, is currently navigating the search for a new leader of its Central Diocese. The church is in the midst of its 26th Synod, a quadrennial gathering of members from across the United States and Canada. This year’s Synod began Tuesday night with an opening Mass on Wednesday, bringing together over 160 participants in Scranton, where the church is headquartered.

The Polish National Catholic Church, led by the Most Rev. Anthony Mikovsky, has approximately 20,000 members across five dioceses and about 120 churches in the United States and Canada. It maintains a sister church in Poland and is in communion with Scandinavian churches. The church operates democratically, with leaders elected through a process that includes laypeople, clergy, and bishops.

The Central Diocese, which serves nearly 40 parishes in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, California, Colorado, and Maryland, is seeking a successor to the Right Rev. Bernard Nowicki, who was elected bishop in 2012. Nowicki, who turned 75 in May, is expected to retire but has been asked to remain until a replacement is found. The Synod planned to elect a new bishop Wednesday, but no candidate came forward, according to Mikovsky.

The search for a new bishop highlights the challenges the church faces in an era of declining numbers. Mikovsky emphasized the need for leaders who are faithful, pastoral, and skilled in both ministry and administration. He noted that the role of a bishop is voluntary and requires a commitment to serving the community.

Mikovsky also mentioned the possibility of other solutions, such as having Nowicki continue in a reduced capacity or bringing in another bishop to assist in Scranton. He stressed the importance of having a presence in the diocese, stating, “Ultimately, there will need to be somebody here in Scranton.”

While Synods occur every four years, they can be called more frequently if needed. The Synod’s opening Mass took place late Wednesday afternoon, with bishops from across the church in attendance. The process of finding a new leader reflects the broader challenges many churches face in adapting to changing circumstances while maintaining their mission and community.

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