5 Prayer Intentions for the Archbishop Transition in the Archdiocese of Denver

Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila prays during the annual 2025 Chrism Mass, in which the holy oils used throughout the Church year are blessed. (Photo by Dan Petty/Denver Catholic)

This year marks an important turning point in the history of the Archdiocese of Denver, as Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila approaches his 75th birthday on September 24.

According to canon law, bishops are requested to submit their request to retire to the Holy Father upon turning 75. With that date approaching for Archbishop Aquila, his letter will be heading to Rome in just a few months.

While we do not know when the Holy Father will accept his request or who his successor will be, we are invited now to begin covering this transition in prayer.

As people of faith, we believe that the Holy Spirit guides the Church, even and especially in times of leadership change. With that in mind, here are five prayer intentions for this season of transition:

1. Pray in Thanksgiving for Archbishop Aquila’s Service

Take time to thank God for the ministry of Archbishop Aquila, who has faithfully shepherded the Archdiocese of Denver since his installation in 2012. His leadership through moments of cultural challenge, his commitment to forming missionary disciples and his dedication to Eucharistic renewal have borne lasting fruit. Consider offering a Rosary, a Holy Hour or a Mass intention in gratitude for his years of service.

2. Pray for the Archbishop’s Health and Holiness

As Archbishop Aquila prepares for this transition, pray for his continued health, peace of heart and spiritual renewal. Even in retirement, bishops remain successors to the apostles and spiritual fathers. Join us in praying that his next season might be marked by joy, rest and an even deeper communion with Christ.

3. Pray for the Holy Father’s Discernment

The appointment of a new archbishop ultimately rests with the Holy Father. Entrust Pope Leo’s discernment to the Holy Spirit. Ask the Lord to provide wisdom, clarity and spiritual insight to those advising him, including the apostolic nuncio and the Dicastery for Bishops in Rome. Pray that they will be attentive to the needs of the faithful in Northern Colorado and open to the Spirit’s promptings.

4. Pray for Our Next Archbishop, Whoever He May Be

Though we do not yet know the name of the man who will be called to lead this local Church, God already knows him! Begin praying for him now — that he may be filled with apostolic courage, pastoral tenderness and doctrinal fidelity. Ask that his heart be prepared to love the people of this archdiocese with the heart of Christ, the Good Shepherd.

5. Pray for Unity and Openness in the Archdiocese

Transitions can stir both anticipation and uncertainty. As we await new leadership, pray that the faithful of the Archdiocese of Denver remain united in Christ, together on mission and open to the grace of this new season. Ask that any seeds of division be replaced by a shared hope and trust in the Lord’s providence.

This time of transition offers us a powerful opportunity to lean into prayer, deepen our faith and renew our love for the Church. Whether at Sunday Mass, in quiet moments of intercession or through fasting and sacrifice, let us commit to covering this change in prayer, confident that the Lord, who began a good work in us, will bring it to completion.

As Archbishop Aquila himself has often reminded us: “Stay close to Jesus. He will never abandon you.”

Let us do just that — and together, walk in hope.