With the recent social unrest and increased divisiveness in our society, Archbishop Paul D. Etienne recognized the need to create an advisory group dedicated to racial justice. He formed a new Racial Justice and Cultural Diversity Commission to guide the Archdiocese of Seattle on issues and initiatives concerning intercultural competency and the sin of racism.

The goal of this handbook is to invite you to take an active part in the pastoral leader transition process, regardless of your role or formal position. Rather than letting events dictate your experience, we encourage you to recognize what is happening and take positive steps to move through the stages of transition.

The Most Rev. Paul D. Etienne, having carefully assessed the needs of the People of God in the Archdiocese of Seattle, and after careful consultation with the Christian Faithful and the Priest Personnel Board, makes the following pastoral appointments in accord with the 1983 Code of Canon Law effective July 1, 2021, unless otherwise noted.

Seattle, April 16, 2021 – In the past month, the Archdiocese of Seattle reached final settlements totaling just over $1.3 million for four separate cases involving allegations of sexual abuse against three priests and a youth minister.