A church full of scaffolding was a sure sign that changes are taking place at St. Joseph’s Church on Pacific Street in Prospect Heights.

Not only has the structure been named the Co-Cathedral of the Diocese of Brooklyn, but on Sunday, Sept. 15, Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio installed Msgr. Kieran Harrington as its first rector.

Bishop DiMarzio said he chose Msgr. Harrington because he has shown himself to be both a good administrator and a good pastor.

The bishop explained that Msgr. Harrington, who holds an MBA from New York University, displayed his business ability as vicar for communications when he organized the DeSales Media Group, the parent company of The Tablet, NET-TV and the other communication agencies of the diocese.

But the bishop added that he also has the heart of a pastor, judging from the many pastoral activities that have happened at St. Joseph’s since he has been the administrator there.

After Bishop DiMarzio officially proclaimed him as rector, Msgr. Harrington led the congregation in the profession of faith at the installation Mass.

“I am confident that under his leadership, the co-cathedral will be at the heart of the development of the new Brooklyn,” said Bishop DiMarzio.

Msgr. Harrington thanked the bishop for his confidence in him, saying that the bishop has been like a father, a brother and a friend to him.

Bishop DiMarzio said that many of the large diocesan gatherings will take place at St. Joseph’s, which can accommodate more than 1,500 people.

St. Joseph’s has undergone extensive exterior repairs. Currently, the church is being repainted, and the murals are being cleaned. A dedication ceremony is planned for the spring.