NEW ORLEANS — Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond on Wednesday, formally installing James F. Checchio as the 15th Archbishop of New Orleans.
Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond
Aymond, 76, retires after serving one year past the mandatory retirement age for bishops. Checchio previously served as coadjutor archbishop following his appointment in September 2025.
Since his arrival in New Orleans, Checchio has visited local schools and parishes. He has also participated in local traditions including caroling in Jackson Square and attending New Orleans Saints games.
Checchio said his first three months in the city have passed quickly as he learns about the local church. He noted the long history of faith in southeastern Louisiana and praised the contributions of local clergy and parishioners.
The transition occurs as the Catholic Church begins the season of Lent. Checchio will celebrate his first Mass as archbishop at noon on Ash Wednesday at St. Louis Cathedral.
During the service, he will be seated in the cathedra for the first time. The chair serves as a symbol of his teaching authority.
The Mass is open to the public. WLAE will provide a live television broadcast and a livestream will be available at thedailymass.com.