The processional began promptly at 2 p.m.
The Knights of Columbus entered Franciscan University's Finnegan Field House first in traditional fashion followed by members of the priesthood.
A number of bishops from the region were also in attendance including The Most Reverend Arch Bishop Dennis Schnurr of the Province of Cincinnati.
After much anticipation, organ music ushered in Monforton along with remaining members of the Catholic Church.
The mass opened with a blessing for the Diocese of Steubenville and the bishop-elect, followed by the act of contrition for all in attendance. A prayer was then spoken for Monforton's new position as bishop.
In traditional Catholic etiquette, the mass featured several readings of scripture, including a reading from the profit Isaiah and from the gospel according to Mathew, as well as a multitude of songs.
Several members of the church spoke about Pope Benedict's push to reestablish the importance of Catholic education, including The Most Rev. Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States.
The Apostolic Letter, written by Pope Benedict XVI, confirming monsignor Monforton as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Steubenville, was read by Viganò towards the second portion of the mass.
The conclusion of the reading was met with thunderous applause.
Monforton's former pastor, the Most Rev. John C. Nienstedt Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, gave a moving speech about his former pupil.
Nienstedt opened with a hymn Monforton had previously sang several years ago. He sang, "Jesus, oh Jesus, come and fill your lambs."
He then discussed the necessary qualities of the role of bishop, congratulating Monforton and telling him to never forsake prayer.
"Never allow the business of the day, to interfere with your prayer, for without Christ, we are nothing," he said to Monforton. "To the people of Steubenville, you are blessed to receive such a brother. This day is truly a great day for the Church."
Monforton was then questioned before all in attendance, a Catholic tradition in ceremony known as the Promise of the Elect, on his ascension to the position of bishop.
Silence then swept the room as several members of the priesthood blessed Monforton, who knelt on bended knee, ordaining him the new Bishop of the Diocese of Steubenville.
Monforton thanked all in attendance, praising God and the Church, and pledged to support the people of Steubenville, performed communion and promised to follow the wishes of Pope Benedict XVI.
The fifth Bishop to Steubenville, Monforton previously served as the pastor of St. Andrew parish in Rochester, Michigan.
Monforton replaces Rev. Daniel Conlon who left the position a little over a year ago.