After almost two years (since December 29, 2004), Sioux Falls, South Dakota finally got a bishop this morning. The Holy Father appointed Msgr. Paul Swain, J.D. as its eighth bishop. There's nothing up on the diocesan website yet and there's nothing on the Madison website about him. No doubt there will be great coverage in the blogosphere today as everyone rejoices at the end of the vacancy in Sioux Falls!I really stink at the Italian, but from what I can see, the bishop-elect will be 63 in September. He grew up as a Methodist and went on to earn his law degree from U.W.- Madison. He practiced law and also served in the Vietnam War as an army intelligence officer. He converted and was received into the Church in 1982 and started formation at John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts. He served at various capacities in the diocese. At his appointment he was Vicar General and Rector of the Cathedral.
For better info. visit his page at the Cathedral website which features a nice biography of him (didn't find this until after I'd muddled through the Italian!).
Bollettino
Sioux Falls at Catholic Hierarchy
