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Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kansas, appointing Bishop William Shawn McKnight of Jefferson City, Missouri, as his successor. This decision was announced by the Vatican on April 8.
Archbishop Naumann served as the fourth archbishop and the 11th bishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City since January 15, 2005. He turned 75 on June 4, 2024, reaching the age at which canon law mandates the submission of a bishop's resignation to the pope.
Archbishop McKnight, aged 56, has led the Diocese of Jefferson City since February 2018 after his ordination as bishop. He previously served as the executive director of the Office for Clergy and Consecrated Life of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops from 2010 to 2015.
In a statement on April 8, shared by the Diocese of Jefferson City, Archbishop McKnight expressed gratitude to the faithful in his current diocese, reflecting, "You welcomed me as your bishop over seven years ago, and together we have grown in faith and service to the Lord."
He added, "You have been my first flock as a bishop, and that bond will always hold a special place in my heart. I am thankful for your trust, your prayers, and your dedication to living out the Gospel in your communities."
As he prepares for his new role in Kansas City, he assured his Jefferson City followers, "I am confident that God’s providence will continue to guide and bless you in the days ahead. You will always remain in my heart and in my prayers."
