US Bishops Name Leader for Vocations Secretariat

WASHINGTON, D.C., SEPT. 21, 2009 (Zenit.org).- The U.S. episcopal conference has named Father Shawn McKnight to lead its Secretariat for Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations.

Father McKnight, 41, is a priest of the Diocese of Wichita, Kansas. He will begin the position in July.

"Father McKnight brings extraordinary background to the position," Monsignor David Malloy, general-secretary of the episcopal conference, said. "In addition to parish work, his experience includes years in seminary formation, education of deacons, college chaplaincy and membership on his diocesan presbyteral council. I am grateful that Bishop Michael Jackels of Wichita is permitting him to serve the U.S. bishops in this national position."

Shawn McKnight was ordained in 1994, after studying biochemistry at the University of Dallas, and then theology in Ohio and Rome. He is serving as the pastor of Blessed Sacrament parish.

The previous pastor of Blessed Sacrament parish, Monsignor James Conley, is now the auxiliary bishop of Denver.