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Pope Francis will name Spokane bishop as the next archbishop of Chicago

Pope Francis is expected to announce Bishop Blase Cupich of Spokane, Wash. as the next archbishop of Chicago.

By Heather Records

THE VATICAN, Vatican City, Sept. 19 (UPI) -- On Saturday, Pope Francis is expected to name the new archbishop of Chicago.

According to reports, he is Bishop Blase Cupich of Spokane, Wash.

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He is a prelate seen as a progressive in the Catholic Church.

The appointment is the pontiff's most important appointment in the U.S. so far. It is also one that could end years of conservative dominance in American hierarchy in the church.

The 65-year-old Cupich will succeed Cardinal Francis George.

Cardinal George is 77 and battling bladder cancer.

All bishops are required to offer their resignations at the age of 75.

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