NewsJanuary 25, 2008
New bishop named to area diocese
The Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau named a new bishop Thursday to replace Bishop John J. Leibrecht, who announced his resignation. Monsignor James Vann Johnston Jr., 48, of Knoxville, Tenn., was appointed as the new bishop. Leibrecht will take a sabbatical for several months and then continue to assist in parishes throughout the diocese as needed, according to a news release...
Southeast Missourian
The Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau named a new bishop Thursday to replace Bishop John J. Leibrecht, who announced his resignation.
Monsignor James Vann Johnston Jr., 48, of Knoxville, Tenn., was appointed as the new bishop. Leibrecht will take a sabbatical for several months and then continue to assist in parishes throughout the diocese as needed, according to a news release.
Vann Johnston served for six years as part-time pastor at Holy Ghost Church of Knoxville, and since 1996 has been Chancellor of the Diocese of Knoxville.
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He has been a priest for 17 years, the Springfield News-Leader reported.
Currently, Vann Johnston is pastor of Our Lady of Fatima Church in Alcoa, Tenn., and is a member of the diocesan college of consultors.
He is also active in the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Engaged Encounter and the Catholic Cursillo movement.
Vann Johnston will be installed as the new bishop March 31.
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