The Kind of Archbishop Pope Leo Wants

CREDIT: Additional video footage courtesy Danny Anderson & Relic Films / Archdiocese of Denver.

Archbishop James Golka is the Archbishop of Denver, having been appointed by Pope Leo XIV in 2026 after serving as Bishop of Colorado Springs. Before becoming a bishop, he was a parish priest in Nebraska, where he became known for his pastoral approach, commitment to evangelization, and work with Hispanic communities. He received the pallium from Pope Leo in Rome on June 29, 2026 as a symbol of his ministry as an archbishop and his communion with the Holy See.

In this conversation, Archbishop Golka reflects on what it means to lead one of America's most dynamic Catholic archdioceses in an increasingly secular culture. He discusses why Denver has become an unexpected center of Catholic renewal, the challenges of evangelization in a politically progressive state, and why he believes many young people are searching for meaning beyond what contemporary culture offers. The conversation also explores abortion, immigration, priestly leadership, the Church's response to the abuse crisis, Catholic life online, Pope Leo's vision for bishops, the spiritual meaning of the pallium, and the personal burdens and joys of serving as an archbishop.

Guest bio:

Archbishop James Golka was appointed Archbishop of Denver by Pope Leo XIV in 2026 after serving as Bishop of Colorado Springs from 2021.Known for his emphasis on evangelization, discipleship, and pastoral leadership, Archbishop Golka has spoken extensively about the Church's mission in an increasingly secular society, the importance of fostering priestly vocations, and helping Catholics encounter Jesus Christ through the life of the Church. In June 2026, he received the pallium from Pope Leo as metropolitan archbishop of Denver.