Last summer Niagara Falls was a hotbed of celebration as same-sex couples chose the brink of the falls to celebrate their new rights and say their vows.
This summer, Buffalo's next Bishop finds himself front and center in the debate surrounding gay marriage in the State of Maine.
Bishop Richard Malone announced in March that the diocese would not actively campaign against a same sex marriage referendum that will come before voters in November.
Instead, Malone wrote a 22-page pastoral letter to constituents entitled "Marriage: Yesterday-Today-Always".
The document reenforces the church's stance on marriage, as defined as a man and a woman.
With the referendum on the way, Bishop Malone wanted to continue his presence, and continue to be at the forefront of the diocese' educational mission.
This week, the Bishop got the answer he was hoping for.
Pope Benedict XVI appointed him Apostolic Administrator for the Diocese of Portland, effective August 10th, the day of his installation in Buffalo.
Kevin Keenan, Spokesman for the Diocese of Buffalo, said that Bishop Malone is very tech-savvy, pointing out that he uses an I-phone and answers plenty of email.
Keenan says tele-conferencing equipment is already being installed at the Bishop's offices in both Buffalo and Portland to help Malone keep in close contact with both staffs.
The new Bishop will also get plenty of support from his predecessor.
After retiring, Bishop Edward Kmiec will be living in the rectory at St. Joseph Cathedral and will be available for advice and guidance throughout this transition.