The transition to new leadership went smoothly as the Rt. Rev. David Lincoln Ferris assumed authority. The Convention of May 1929 immediately granted Ferris’ request for a coadjutor, and passed the resolution calling for a division of the Diocese easily. In October a special convention to elect the coadjutor was held at St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Since Ferris had worked from Diocesan offices in Rochester, it was naturally assumed that he would take the reins of the new Diocese of Rochester. Therefore, whoever was elected coadjutor would become bishop of the Buffalo end of the Diocese of WNY.

During the time Ferris served the Diocese of WNY, he distinguished himself as a true pastor to his flock. He made it a point to visit ill clergy, call upon families when prominent lay leaders died, and make regular visits to homes for the poor and aged.