MONSIGNOR SIFFRIN Background

Monsignor Robert J. Siffrin is serving as diocesan administrator for the Diocese of Youngstown until a new bishop is chosen by Pope Benedict XVI. Monsignor Siffrin was elected interim leader June 2 after Bishop Thomas Tobin was reassigned to the Diocese of Providence, R.I., and installed May 31.
Education: Monsignor Siffrin, who grew up in Massillon, was ordained June 23, 1979. He completed seminary studies at Mount St. Mary Seminary, Cincinnati.
School work: He served on the faculty at Ursuline High School, Youngstown, and as associate principal at John F. Kennedy High School, Warren.
Administrative roles: Monsignor Siffrin was appointed to diocesan offices in 1987 as diocesan director of planning. In 1988 he was appointed associate chancellor, then chancellor and Episcopal vicar. In 1996 he was appointed vicar general and moderator of the Curia. Monsignor Siffrin was named prelate of honor by Pope John Paul II in June 2004. He also is administrator of St. Edward Church, Youngstown.
Other affiliations: He is a member of the college of consultors, the board of trustees of Catholic Cemeteries, Diocesan Foundation Advisory Board and Diocesan Finance Council.
In community: Monsignor Siffrin is a member of Rotary Club of Youngstown, board member of Youngstown Symphony Orchestra and St. Joseph Care Center in Louisville and had served as state chaplain of Knights of Columbus.