A Shepherd Who Always Asked, 'How Can I Help?'
- Catholic Charities
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
By Darren Walsh
President & CEO
Catholic Charities of Denver
As we welcome our new archbishop, I have been reflecting on the leadership of Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila and, just as importantly, on the friendship and steady support he has offered Catholic Charities of Denver over so many years.
Archbishop Aquila was appointed Archbishop of Denver by Pope Benedict XVI on May 29, 2012, returning to the archdiocese where he first served as a priest. From the very beginning of his tenure, it was clear that he would lead not only with clarity and conviction but with a servant’s heart.
For me personally, Archbishop Aquila has always been more than an archbishop who supported Catholic Charities from afar. He has been a trusted partner, a wise counselor and a true friend. Whether in moments of growth or moments of challenge, he consistently showed up with encouragement, prayer and a willingness to listen. More often than not, his first words were simple and sincere: How can I help you?
That posture of service defined his leadership, especially during times when the work could have felt overwhelming. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced Catholic Charities to completely rethink how we sheltered and cared for our neighbors, Archbishop Aquila was unwavering in his support. During that season, his guidance and trust made all the difference.
When we transitioned to 24/7 care at the Denver Coliseum during COVID, he backed our efforts. When we opened Samaritan House 48th in 2021 to shelter 275 women daily, he enthusiastically encouraged our mission. His leadership during challenging seasons has always been marked by calm, faith and a deep understanding of the human dignity at the heart of our work.
That same spirit was evident when Denver experienced the arrival of many migrant families seeking safety and stability in late 2023. Archbishop Aquila led the way in opening the Mullen Home so families could find refuge and care, entrusting Catholic Charities with the day-to-day operations. In moments of public conversation and scrutiny, he spoke clearly and confidently in defense of Catholic Charities, helping the wider community understand both our mission and the Gospel values that guide it.
Throughout his time as archbishop, he consistently lifted up Catholic Charities as a vital expression of the Church’s mission to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. He helped the faithful understand that serving the poor, the homeless, women and families in crisis, immigrants, seniors and those struggling with mental and emotional challenges is not peripheral to the Church, but central to who we are as Catholics.
Archbishop Aquila’s deep zeal for the sanctity of life has shaped our work in enduring ways. A steadfast supporter of Marisol Services, he celebrated key milestones such as the opening of our newest Marisol Health clinic in Fort Collins and, more recently, the launch of Marisol Health Mobile. During his tenure, he regularly joined us to celebrate Mass and speak at Catholic Charities events like the Beacon of Hope, which supports the women and families we serve.
He has long supported Respect Life Denver through his faithful presence at Eucharistic processions and his public leadership in advancing initiatives that celebrate and defend the dignity of life. His recent letter in support of this Catholic Charities' ministry beautifully expressed his conviction that a culture of life is lived through accompaniment, compassion and faithful witness, honoring every human person from womb to tomb.
What stands out most to me is not any single initiative, but the consistency of Archbishop Aquila’s presence. He was always there when we needed him, offering direction when challenges arose and encouragement when the path forward was unclear. He trusted the people doing the work and never lost sight of the individuals and families at the center of it all.
Catholic Charities is stronger because of Archbishop Aquila’s leadership, advocacy and friendship. I am deeply grateful for the many ways he supported me personally and our ministry collectively, often in quiet ways that never made headlines, but made all the difference.
As we look to the future and prepare to welcome our new archbishop, we do so profoundly thankful for Archbishop Aquila’s years of faithful service. I invite the faithful of Northern Colorado to join us in praying for him in this next chapter and to continue supporting Catholic Charities through prayer, service and generosity, so that together we may carry forward the mission he so faithfully championed. His legacy of humility, compassion and servant leadership will continue to guide us as we strive to be the hands and feet of Christ for those most in need.
