The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper The Spokesman-Review
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883
Current Temperature
50°F
Current Conditions
Few clouds
View complete weather report
Subscribe now

Skylstad, 75, submits required resignation

Spokane Catholic Bishop Rev. William Skylstad visits the issue of abuse in the church during an interview with the Spokesman-Review editoral board March 2, 2009. (Dan Pelle / The Spokesman-Review)
The Spokesman-Review
Spokane Catholic Bishop Rev. William Skylstad visits the issue of abuse in the church during an interview with the Spokesman-Review editoral board March 2, 2009. (Dan Pelle / The Spokesman-Review)
William Skylstad, bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Spokane, has submitted a letter of resignation to Pope Benedict as required of all bishops when they turn 75. Skylstad’s birthday was today, and he sent the letter on Friday, according to Deacon Eric Meisfjord, diocesan communications director. Resignations at age 75 are required under the church’s canon law, but acceptance is at the discretion of the pope. Skylstad was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Spokane in 1960 and ordained bishop of Yakima in 1977. He returned to Spokane as bishop in April 1990.