Bishop Shawn McKnight has been named the next archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas. During a recent press conference, McKnight expressed his satisfaction at returning to his home state. Previously, McKnight served as bishop of the Diocese of Jefferson City, Missouri, beginning in early 2018.

"I am going to be quite a bit closer to my favorite quail hunting ground in the Wichita diocese," McKnight mentioned when discussing his new appointment. Reflecting on the moment he was informed of his selection, he said, "I am very happy to be back in my home state."

The announcement was made by the outgoing Kansas City Archbishop Joseph Naumann, who endorsed his successor warmly. "Archbishop McKnight brings many gifts to the archdiocese: keen intelligence, deep faith, and a love for the church," Naumann commented.

Bishop Carl Kemme of the Diocese of Wichita also reacted positively, highlighting McKnight's service within the diocese. "The people of the Diocese of Wichita were well served by Fr. McKnight during his years of service to his home diocese," Kemme said.

Bishop McKnight remarked that he plans to enhance his proficiency in Spanish for the archdiocese's Spanish-speaking community. He also shared his gratitude towards Pope Francis for assigning him to this new mission and disclosed the personal nature of receiving the call just before a confirmation Mass.

A native of Wichita, McKnight was ordained a priest in 1994 and has held various academic and clerical roles throughout his career. His extensive resume includes teaching at seminaries and serving in administrative roles within the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. His initial remarks credited his upbringing and time in Wichita for shaping his vocation.

The official installation of Archbishop McKnight is scheduled for May 27 at the Church of the Nativity in Leawood.