Pope Francis has appointed Archbishop Richard W. Smith as the next Archbishop of Vancouver. 

In a heartfelt letter to clergy and Catholic faithful, Archbishop Smith shared: “I am grateful to his Holiness for the confidence placed in me to assume this new mission and ask for the assistance of your prayers.”

Since 2007, Archbishop Smith has tirelessly served our students, staff, and their families. He has been a part of school and site blessings, celebrated countless Eucharistic celebrations and liturgies in our schools, and guided our students through their journeys of faith. 

Speaking at a news conference, Archbishop Smith said he was grateful for the confidence Pope Francis has in him and is confident his successor will find a good home here. 

“We don’t know yet who the next Archbishop will be, but whoever it is, is coming into a beautiful portion of the Lord’s vineyard. He will be surrounded, as I was surrounded, from the very outset by a community of very faithful, confident disciples.”

His Grace will continue to serve in our City until May. Details on Archbishop Smith’s farewell and his successor can be found on the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton website. 

Edmonton Catholic School Division joins Edmonton’s Catholic community in congratulating Archbishop Smith on his new appointment. We thank you for your years of service and wish you blessings, success, and God’s grace in your new mission.