Cupich: ‘Spokane will always have a place in my heart’

Spokane Bishop Blase Cupich heard rumors that he was under consideration for leading the third largest Catholic Diocese in the United States. But he didn’t know for sure until about 10 days ago, when he was informed by the papal nuncio – the pope’s representative in the United States – that he had been selected to be archbishop of Chicago by Pope Francis. “There were rumors,” Cupich said in a phone interview this afternoon from Nebraska where he is visiting family after he was formally announced as Chicago’s archbishop earlier in the day. “But there’s a rumor dujour sometimes in the church.” Cupich came to Spokane in 2010 as the diocese was dealing with the fallout of bankruptcy. He has gained a reputation as a capable administrator who is open to opposing views. But he is not afraid to challenge. Under his leadership, the diocese is suing the lawfirm that represented it during its bankruptcy. He said Spokane has been extremely welcoming. “My impressions of the dioscese, but also the city and Eastern Washington are so favorable that I know that I’m going to miss it a great deal,” Cupich said. “Spokane will always have a place in my heart.” Cupich will not be installed as Chicago’s new archbishop until Nov. 18. He said he will be splitting his time between Spokane and Chicago until then. He said the process for finding a new bishop could take about nine months. In the interim, he said, his consulters, a group of six priests in the diocese, will elect someone to serve as the administrator of the diocese. The papal nuncio will lead the process of finding a new bishop and will consult priests and laity within the Spokane Diocese and bishops, Cupich said. He will select three finalists. The Congregation for Bishops will pick one to recommend to Pope Francis who will make the final decision, Cupich said. Cupich will arrive back in Spokane later next week. “I look forward to the weeks that we have ahead,” Cupich said. “I’m grateful for everyone’s praryers and support.”