Pope Leo XIV Accepts Resignation of Denver Archbishop, Appoints New Bishop

Archbishop Samuel Aquila of Denver resigns, Bishop James Golka of Colorado Springs named as successor

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Most Reverend Samuel J. Aquila, 75, from the pastoral governance of the Archdiocese of Denver, and has appointed Most Reverend James R. Golka, currently bishop of Colorado Springs, as his successor. The resignation and appointment were publicized in Washington, D.C. on February 7, 2026, by Cardinal Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States.

Why it matters

The appointment of a new archbishop is a significant event for the Catholic Church, as the archbishop is the chief pastor of the archdiocese and responsible for the spiritual and administrative leadership of the local church. The transition in Denver is part of the ongoing renewal and reorganization of the Catholic Church in the United States.

The details

Bishop James R. Golka, 59, was born in Grand Island, Nebraska and has served as bishop of Colorado Springs since 2018. He has a background in parish ministry, diocesan leadership roles, and a focus on stewardship and vocations. The Archdiocese of Denver covers 40,154 square miles in the state of Colorado.

  • Pope Leo XIV accepted Archbishop Aquila's resignation on February 7, 2026.
  • Bishop Golka was appointed as the new Archbishop of Denver on February 7, 2026.

The players

Pope Leo XIV

The current Pope and leader of the Catholic Church.

Most Reverend Samuel J. Aquila

The former Archbishop of Denver, who has resigned at the age of 75.

Most Reverend James R. Golka

The current Bishop of Colorado Springs, who has been appointed as the new Archbishop of Denver.

Cardinal Christophe Pierre

The Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, who announced the resignation and appointment.

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What’s next

The Vatican has not announced a timeline for Bishop Golka's installation as the new Archbishop of Denver.

The takeaway

The transition in leadership of the Archdiocese of Denver is part of the ongoing renewal and reorganization of the Catholic Church in the United States, as the Church works to address challenges and position itself for the future.