SYRACUSE -- The Bishop of the Roman Catholic Dioces of Syracuse will be overseeing the 12 county Rochester Diocese until a new bishop is named.

Pope Benedict XVI appointed Bishop Robert J. Cunningham after accepting the resignation of Bishop Matthew Clark in Rochester. Bishop Clark served them people of Rochester for over 33 years.

Cunningham will serve Rochester on an interim basis.

"I am greatly honored, and humbled, to serve as Apostolic Administrator of this diocese, said Bishop Cunningham in a media release.

A congregation of bishops will choose Rochester’s next bishop. Pope Benedict XVI will then have to approve the decision.