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)

It is with great joy and gratitude to Our Heavenly Father that I, Bishop Michael P. Driscoll, along with the Diocese of Boise welcome our new neighbor Bishop Blase Cupich as the sixth Bishop of the Diocese of Spokane. Bishop Blase and I have known one another since 1998 when he became Bishop in Rapid City, South Dakota. I enjoy a special affinity to South Dakota, as my parents were natives of South Dakota before coming to reside in Southern California, where I was born. I still visit South Dakota often as I have many cousins continuing to live there.

Bishop Blase has lived his episcopal ministry as leader of the Church of Rapid City in an exemplary fashion. I know that he will serve in this same capacity as Bishop of the Diocese of Spokane. The Diocese of Spokane is blessed along with the entire Northwest and Region XII as we work together serving the people of God in this beautiful area in the USA.

I have long enjoyed my friendship and relationship with Bishop Bill Skylstad, who now retires in his leadership role with the Churches of Yakima, Spokane and in the United States Conference of Bishops nationally and internationally. He has served all these places and offices with distinction and great love these past 50 years as priest and bishop.

To both Bishop Cupich and Bishop Skylstad, I wish my sincerest congratulations and blessings of God upon them and all whom they serve and will continue to serve.

Ad Multos Annos!

Most Reverend Michael P. Driscoll, MSW, DD, Catholic Bishop of Idaho