GUAM
Guam Daily Post
Chris Wong | Post News Staff
With the Oct. 31 announcement of Bishop Michael Jude Byrnes’ appointment as coadjutor archbishop of the Archdiocese of Agana, the Post contacted Byrnes yesterday morning Guam time and spoke with him to get a better understanding of the newest leader of the Catholic Church on Guam.
Below are the archbishop’s responses to the Post’s questions:
Question: Is there any update on your expected date of arrival on Guam?
Answer: Yes, my initial visit is now scheduled for Nov. 28, 2016. I will stay in Guam for three weeks and return back to Detroit during the holiday season to visit my family. Around mid-January, I will have a specific date set when I arrive on Guam, of when I expect to move into my residence on Guam.
Q: What was your reaction upon being chosen by Pope Francis to head the archdiocese on Guam?
A: I was shocked. The first thing I asked was “Where is Guam?” I had no idea I was appointed for the position.
Q: With news of the appointment, some in the local community feel that an outsider would not be able heal the deep divisions and issues the Catholic Church is dealing with on Guam. Others feel that your appointment is a welcome breath of fresh air. What initial steps will you take to heal the community?
A: First and foremost to listen to and to talk with the congregation. I cannot come in with preconceptions of any issue. I need to listen [about] what we can do to resolve and heal the wounds left in the community.
Q: Have you encountered and experienced controversial issues in the community during your time as a member of the clergy?
A: Yes, in 2011 when a priest in our diocese went before a canonical trial after being accused of sexual abuse and misconduct. I have experience in dealing with financial issues and personal issues that were controversial within our congregation of 1.3 million Catholics, in a metropolitan area of 3.4 million people.
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