Bishop Douglas J. Lucia says he’s never been comfortable as the center of attention. But, he’s about to take on a role that attracts both adoration and criticism, along with television cameras.

As Bishop Robert Cunningham steps aside, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse is welcoming its 11th bishop this week.

There’s no applications or interviews for the job. In fact, Bishop Lucia didn’t even know he was being considered. It’s a process he calls a "mystery."

Born in the Clinton County town of Altona, the bishop wasn’t always sure about joining the priesthood. He considered becoming a lawyer, until the day he volunteered at a soup kitchen. Handing food to people who needed it triggered a calling that eventually led him to the Diocese of Ogdensburg.

He studied canon law and took on the role of judicial vicar. But, his preferred role is that of a pastor. Parishioners in Waddington and Madrid have told the bishop-elect he’s always welcome to come back if the folks in Syracuse don’t want him. The thought brings a satisfied smile to his face. The first thing he plans to do is visit parishes in the Syracuse Diocese to make sure they feel the same connection with him.

Bishop Lucia admits he did not spend a lifetime dreaming about his latest appointment, but he does have faith that he’s meant to fill the role. With the number of priests and parishioners declining, he’s aiming for a more contemporary church, hoping to buck criticism that Catholic leaders are stuck in the past.

Editor's note: This interview took place before Bishop Lucia was ordained. The text has been updated to reflect the change in his title.