Catholic Diocese of Spokane, Washington

From the

Official News Magazine of the Diocese of Spokane

(From the Aug. 19, 2010 edition of the Inland Register)

Dear Friends in Christ:

I received the recent news of Bishop Blase Cupich’s appointment as Bishop of Spokane with great joy!

I have had the privilege of getting to know Bishop Cupich through his work in the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. He is a seasoned leader, a gifted administrator and a man of prayer and deep faith. He brings with him a wealth of experience as a parish priest, secretary at the apostolic nunciature, seminary president, and bishop. The knowledge and insights gained from each of his previous assignments will serve him well in his ministry to the people of eastern Washington.

Bishop Cupich’s appointment is a wonderful sign of the Church renewing itself while remaining faithful to the teachings of Christ. I join with people throughout the Pacific Northwest in thanking our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, for sending someone of such wisdom and judgment to serve the Diocese of Spokane. I wish him every blessing in this challenging new role.

At the same time, I would like to thank Bishop William Skylstad for the kindness and care that he demonstrated throughout his ministry as Bishop of Spokane. His humility and graciousness, as well as his selfless dedication to the wellbeing of those he was sent to serve are known far and wide. Truly, he has the heart of a Good Shepherd.

As Archbishop of Seattle, I consider myself blessed to have worked with him here in our region, and I am grateful to call him my friend. I ask that God may reward him with a long, healthy and active retirement. May he always know the special joy that comes to those who walk closely with the Lord.

With warmest regards and wishes, I remain

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Rev. Alex J. Brunett, Archbishop of Seattle