Bishop Ryan Jimenez, the incoming Archbishop of Agana for the Guam’s Archdiocese, is preparing to assume leadership amidst ongoing sexual abuse allegations involving clergy members. Jimenez, aged 52 and with nearly two decades of experience in Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, was appointed by the Vatican to succeed former Archbishop Michael Jude Byrnes, who resigned in March 2023 due to illness.
Scheduled to officially commence his new position on 15 August, Jimenez emphasized the importance of familiarizing himself with the community, staff, priests, and deacons before considering any significant changes. He anticipates possibly implementing leadership adjustments by mid-April 2025 if urgent changes are required.
The Archdiocese has been embroiled in turmoil, including a history of sexual abuse allegations that resulted in a bankruptcy filing. In 2016, former altar servers came forward with accusations of abuse by priests and clergy members dating back to the 1950s. Subsequently, a Vatican tribunal found former Archbishop Anthony Apuron guilty of sexually abusing minors.
The archdiocese is in the final stages of reaching a $34 million settlement for a civil lawsuit brought by 280 plaintiffs, many of whom were former altar servers. To cover the costs of the settlement, prime properties owned by the archdiocese will be sold.
Jimenez stated that the implementation of the settlement is ongoing, indicating that there is still work to be done in this regard. When questioned about his familiarity with the case, Jimenez expressed his need for further information and reflection before making any decisions, trusting in guidance from the Holy Spirit.
Jimenez says he is dedicated to the process of healing and reconciliation, with a focus on rebuilding public trust through open dialogue and understanding. He stressed the importance of prioritizing this aspect and indicated his intention to familiarize himself with the situation through study, engagement with others, and getting to know the church staff.
He originally came to Saipan as a migrant worker from the Philippines and taught at a Catholic school on Rota, currently serves as the bishop of the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa.
Appointed as the second archbishop of Guam by Pope Francis within the past eight years, Jimenez brings a unique background and perspective to his new role.