New Orleans Archbishop Checchio Leads First Mass, Hundreds Attend Ash Wednesday Service

Newly installed Archbishop James Checchio presided over his inaugural Mass at St. Louis Cathedral, marking a new era for the Catholic Church in the region.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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On Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, newly installed Archbishop James Checchio led his inaugural Mass at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans. Hundreds of local Catholics attended the service, where Checchio formally took over leadership from the previous Archbishop Gregory Aymond. The 59-year-old Checchio, who previously served in New Jersey, greeted parishioners individually and distributed ashes, including to Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson. Checchio expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and said his goal is to bring people together and rebuild trust in the church following a lengthy legal battle over sexual abuse claims.

Why it matters

Checchio's installation as the new Archbishop of New Orleans marks a significant transition for the local Catholic community, which has faced challenges in recent years. His outreach and focus on unity are seen as important steps in healing and moving the church forward in the region.

The details

During the Ash Wednesday service, the 59-year-old Checchio formally took over leadership from the previous Archbishop Gregory Aymond. Checchio greeted parishioners individually and distributed ashes, including to Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson. Checchio expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and said his goal is to bring people together and rebuild trust in the church following a lengthy legal battle over sexual abuse claims.

  • Checchio presided over his first Mass as Archbishop on Ash Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • Ash Wednesday marks the start of the 40-day season of Lent in the Catholic Church.

The players

Archbishop James Checchio

The newly installed Archbishop of New Orleans, previously serving in New Jersey.

Archbishop Gregory Aymond

The outgoing Archbishop of New Orleans, who Checchio is replacing.

Gayle Benson

Owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, who received ashes from Checchio during the service.

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What they’re saying

“It's helpful for me to connect with people. These are the people that I need.”

— Archbishop James Checchio (WDSU)

“I think it's going to help. I had a chance to meet him about three weeks ago. He was having lunch at Mandina's Restaurant and he just came across as a great, easygoing guy. He's going to love him.”

— Unidentified parishioner (WDSU)

“It's a new era, a new day. I think it's going to be just great. I'm so happy for Archbishop Aymond, but I'm also really welcoming and very happy for Archbishop Checchio.”

— Gayle Benson, Saints and Pelicans owner (WDSU)

What’s next

Archbishop Checchio will continue to meet with and connect to the local Catholic community in the coming weeks and months as he settles into his new role.

The takeaway

Checchio's installation as the new Archbishop of New Orleans represents a fresh start for the local Catholic Church, which is seeking to rebuild trust and unity following past challenges. His outreach and focus on connecting with parishioners is seen as an important step in this process.