This fall, the Catholic Archdiocese of Denver is preparing for a significant transition as Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila is set to submit his resignation upon turning 75 on September 24, in accordance with canon 401 §1 of the Code of Canon Law.
As the Church anticipates this change, the process for appointing a new bishop or archbishop involves several intricately structured steps aimed at ensuring a thoughtful selection guided by prayer and community input.
The journey typically begins at the local level, where the apostolic nuncio, the pope’s ambassador to the United States, requests a thorough report from Archbishop Aquila detailing the state of the diocese, its conditions, and its needs.
This report often contains recommendations from the retiring bishop, which are taken seriously in subsequent discussions.
Following the report, the nuncio engages in extensive consultations with clergy and laypeople across the region.
This process, which is conducted under the pontifical seal, includes reaching out to bishops, priests, deacons, and lay representatives within the diocese, as well as previous bishops and influential members of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
Typically, 25-30 individuals provide their insights on the qualities required for effective leadership, pastoral zeal, theological orthodoxy, health, and character through confidential questionnaires.
Once all relevant information is gathered, the nuncio narrows down the candidates and compiles a report known as the terna, which includes three candidates presented in alphabetical order along with a noted preference of the nuncio.
Following the submission of the terna, the process moves to Rome, where the Dicastery for Bishops convenes to review and discuss the various episcopal openings and the candidates proposed.
This review occurs twice a month, allowing members of the dicastery to vote on which candidates to recommend to the Holy Father.
During these meetings, a cardinal relator presents the candidates, and dicastery members may vote to accept the nuncio’s recommendation or seek alternative candidates.
Ultimately, the decision lies solely with the pope, who, after careful consideration, takes the recommendations before him in a private audience with the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.
Following this audience, the pope typically spends a few days in prayerful reflection regarding the recommendations before communicating his decision.
He can either choose one of the three candidates suggested or request a new terna if he deems it necessary.
When a name is finalized, the Vatican informs the nuncio, who then privately reaches out to the selected candidate, often leading to a moment of surprise for the recipient, who may initially misconstrue the call.
In cases of an archbishop appointment, it is common for a bishop from another diocese to be chosen to lead the vacancy.
Once the candidate accepts the appointment, plans for announcing the new bishop or archbishop are made in coordination with the local diocese.
The newly appointed archbishop, once announced, will undergo installation rites, during which he will formally take possession of his new cathedral and take his seat in the cathedra, marking the commencement of his pastoral ministry.
This meticulous selection process is often lengthy, typically spanning 6-8 months, which underscores the Church’s commitment to the discernment of leadership.
The selection of bishops, perceived as successors of the apostles, is treated as a sacred responsibility shaped by the guidance of the Holy Spirit and reflective of Christ’s image as the Good Shepherd.
As Archbishop Aquila has frequently underscored, ideal candidates for similar roles are those characterized by deep faith, trust, and charity—individuals whose leadership resonates with pastoral warmth and adherence to doctrinal fidelity.
It is vital that they are chosen through an earnest process of prayer and communal consultation.
In light of this transition, the community is encouraged to engage in prayer, hoping for guidance through this pivotal moment.
Prayers can be directed towards Archbishop Aquila, expressing gratitude for his 12 years of service and seeking clarity for his future.
The Church is called to pray for Pope Leo and the Dicastery of Bishops to receive the Holy Spirit’s guidance in their deliberations.
Furthermore, prayers for the future archbishop are important, asking for his heart to be formed by a deep love for Christ and his Church.
Lastly, prayers for the Archdiocese of Denver are needed, that the community may embrace new pastoral leadership with unity, hope, and faith, as they prepare to welcome their next shepherd.
image source from：denvercatholic
