Statement from Bishop Carl A. Kemme on the newly appointed Archbishop Shawn McKnight

It is with great joy and pride that we, the Diocese of Wichita, receive the news that Pope Francis has appointed the Most Reverend W. Shawn McKnight as the new archbishop of Kansas City, Kansas. The people of the Diocese of Wichita were well served by Father McKnight during his years of service to his home diocese. We were delighted that he was chosen as bishop of Jefferson City, Missouri and that he has now been chosen to lead the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas.  

This appointment further highlights the vitality of the Diocese of Wichita and the vocations to the priesthood nurtured here. It is a profound blessing to see men from our community of faith rise to serve the Church in such significant roles. I look forward to working with him as one of the bishops in the Province of Kansas. We are proud of Archbishop-designate McKnight and pledge our prayerful support for him and his new ministry.

Most Reverend Carl A. Kemme D.D.

Bishop of Wichita