New Archbishop Takes Helm At Archdiocese of Seattle

SEATTLE, WA — The Catholic church in Washington got a new top spiritual leader on Tuesday as Archbishop Paul D. Etienne took over for outgoing Archbishop J. Peter Sartain.

Sartain began to transition out of the job in the spring due to health issues. Since 2012, Sartain has had a back condition requiring three spinal surgeries. After being appointed by Pope Francis, Etienne came to Seattle in April to serve as coadjutor with Sartain.

Etienne comes to Seattle after serving as archbishop of the Archdiocese of Anchorage, Alaska, since 2016. He is originally from Tell City, Ind., and previously served as bishop of the Diocese of Cheyenne, Wyoming.

In addition to being a spiritual leader for Washington Catholics, Etienne pledged to be more open about the church's activities.

"Transparency is something that I’m committed to and will continue to uphold. I will speak out about issues and ensure our community understands our Catholic teaching," Etienne said in a statement.

The Archdiocese of Seattle will hold ceremonies on Sept. 3 to welcome Etienne, including a Facebook live address at noon, and prayer services at St. James Cathedral beginning at 4 p.m.