 The Count was in the diplomatic service in Rome and had the privilege of having great influence in Vatican circles.When the Episcopal see in Prešov became vacant due to the death of Bishop Ján Vályi on 19 November 1911, it was Count Palfy who recommended that Štefan Novák be appointed as his successor.Thus, when he was only 33 years old he was appointed as the Bishop of the Eparchy by the Holy See on 20 November 1913 and consecrated on 11 January 1914.