Pope Leo XIV appoints Bishop James Golka to lead Archdiocese of Denver

World
Vatican City
Archbishop James Golka
Colorado Archdiocese
archdiocese-of-denver
vatican
catholic-news
Author

Daniel Payne

Published

February 7, 2026

Summary

Denver Archbishop-designate James Golka, who was named Bishop of Colorado Springs in 2021, has been appointed to lead the Archdiocese of Denver. This appointment comes after Archbishop Samuel Aquila stepped down from his post at the age of 75. At the press conference held on February 7th, Golka announced that his main agenda as archbishop would be to “take time to intentionally listen to God’s will” and then implement those actions. In his previous role as Bishop of Colorado Springs, Aquila highlighted Golka’s understanding of challenges such as immigration and global issues through a lens of the Gospel. On February 7th, Golka addressed the public in fluent Spanish while shedding tears, describing his excitement at taking on new responsibilities while expressing sadness for leaving his beloved Diocese of Colorado Springs behind. Golka’s installation is scheduled for March 25th. Pope Francis appointed Golka to lead the Colorado Springs Diocese in 2021, following which he served as Bishop there until stepping down from his post at the age of 75. Archbishop Samuel Aquila will retire on March 25th after leading the Archdiocese of Denver since 2012.

Key Topics

Vatican City, Archbishop James Golka, Colorado Archdiocese


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