Pope John Paul II appointed John McCarthy the Bishop of Austin, Texas, in 1985, where he served for fifteen years until his retirement from that office. During his tenure, explosive growth in central Texas included enormous growth within the diocese, adding over twenty new parishes (which brought the total to around 125.) In addition to his local commitments, Bishop McCarthy remained very active in the National Bishops' Catholic Conference, but his principle interest was relief services in the "Third World." Bishop McCarthy is best known for his inclusive, ecumenical approach, his humor, and h...