By Kiply Lukan Yaworski

[SASKATOON, April 12, 2019] — The Catholic Health Association of Saskatchewan (CHAS) today announced the appointment of Blake Sittler of Saskatoon as Executive Director.

CHAS is provincial organization provides a network of support and resources for all who share in the healing ministry of Christ, whether in hospitals, care homes, parishes or in the community. CHAS also works to protect and promote Catholic health care.

After 23 years serving in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon — first as a pastoral associate, later as a Parish Life Director and a coordinator of diocesan ministry offices, and finally as Director of Pastoral Services — Sittler will take up his new role as of May 1, 2019.

In a diocesan announcement to parish and ministry leaders across the diocese April 12, Bishop Mark Hagemoen expressed appreciation for Sittler’s years of service. “Blake will be greatly missed by the diocese, and I am sure I can express common gratitude for his many years of ministry and service. Please pray for Blake in this new and exciting chapter of his life and ministry,” wrote Hagemoen.

Board of Director Chair Terrie Michaud also released an announcement from CHAS  April 12, welcoming Sittler as the organization’s new Executive Director, and expressing appreciation for the work of  interim Executive Director Marissa Alarcon, who will be leaving CHAS as of May 31 to pursue a new opportunity.

Sittler said he is truly grateful for his 23 years with the diocese, and is looking forward to his new role at CHAS “with excitement and humility.”

He added: “This is an important time for Catholic health in our society, and I hope that my time working in the different areas of the diocese will help me to be of service to our many partners.”