James R. Golka
James Robert Golka (born September 22, 1966) is an American prelate of the Roman Catholic Church who has been serving as bishop for the Diocese of Colorado Springs in Colorado since 2021. Biography. Early life. Golka was born in Grand Island, Nebraska, the son of Robert and Patricia Golka. James Golka was one of ten children. He attended Grand Island Central Catholic High School, where he played football. During his time at Creighton University, Golka began talking about going into the priesthood with the Jesuits.After graduating from college, Golka spent a year volunteering at a high  school in the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota in what he called a test of his desire to become a priest. Priesthood. On June 3, 1994, Golka was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Grand Island by Bishop Lawrence McNamara. Along with parish assignments as parochial vicar and pastor, Golka served as director of ongoing formation of clergy, director of diocesan youth retreats, chair of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commission, chair of the Personnel Board, member of the Diocesan Finance Council, the Presbyteral Council, and the Pension Board. Golka's last pastoral assignment before becoming  bishop was as rector and pastor of the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Bishop of Colorado Springs. Pope Francis appointed Golka as bishop for the Diocese of Colorado Springs on April 30, 2021. On June 29, 2021, Golka was consecrated by Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila.