The Vatican has announced that Pope Leo XIV has appointed Reverend Pedro Bismarck Chau as an Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Newark. Bishop-elect Chau, aged 57, is a priest within the Archdiocese and currently serves as the rector of the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, New Jersey.

Concurrently, Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Bishop Gregory J. Studerus from his role as Auxiliary Bishop of Newark. At 77 years old, Bishop Studerus was appointed by Pope Francis on February 27, 2020, and ordained on June 29, 2020. Despite stepping down from his official duties, he will remain active in pastoral activities within the Archdiocese.

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin expressed his support for these changes: "I warmly welcome the Holy Father’s appointment of Bishop-elect Pedro Bismarck Chau as an Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Newark. His deep faith, considerable pastoral experience and love for the people of God will be a great blessing to our local Church." He also acknowledged Bishop Studerus's service: "I am deeply grateful to Bishop Gregory Studerus for his years of faithful and generous service to the Archdiocese of Newark."

Bishop-elect Chau was born in Managua, Nicaragua on June 28, 1967. He holds degrees in psychology and professional counseling from Seton Hall University and has earned advanced theological degrees from Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology. Ordained to priesthood on May 24, 2008, he has served in various roles including youth ministry and chaplaincy to the deaf.

As Auxiliary Bishop, Chau will oversee parishes and Catholic institutions in Hudson County previously managed by Bishop Studerus. He joins fellow Auxiliary Bishops Manuel A. Cruz, Michael A. Saporito and Elias R. Lorenzo in serving over 1.3 million Catholics under Cardinal Tobin's leadership.

The Mass of Episcopal Ordination for Bishop-elect Chau is scheduled for September 8, 2025 at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart with Cardinal Tobin presiding.