This month Canon James Barnabas Almasi has been elected to serve as the 9th bishop of Masasi. His consecration will take place on September 21st at Mtandi Cathedral and representatives from many areas of the world will attend, along with the President of Tanzania. James has served in several Masasi parishes and also in Mbeya Cathedral in the west of Tanzania. His charisma and warm personality have endeared him to many and Friends of Masasi and Newala wish him a blessed time as he faces the challenges of leading the diocese.