Monsignor Alfred A. Schlert has been appointed as the Fifth Bishop of Allentown, replacing Bishop John Barres, who is leading a flock in Nassau and Suffolk counties on Long Island, New York.

Bishop-elect Schlert is the first priest of the diocese to be appointed to serve as its bishop. He has been serving as the diocesan administrator since his election by the Diocesan College of Consultors on Feb. 1, following the Jan. 31 installation of his predecessor Most Reverend John Barres as the Bishop of Rockville Centre, New York.Bishop-elect Schlert's Ordination and Installation will be held on Aug. 31 at the Cathedral of Saint Catharine of Siena in Allentown.