On August 27th, 2025, Lourdes Health was pleased to formally commission and bless Brian Sims as its next Chief Executive Officer. It was a joyous occasion which began with a welcome from Lourdes Health Mission Integration Director, Joshua Harrison, who invited the attendees to pray for Brian as he begins a sacred calling to lead a ministry devoted to the healing ministry of Jesus. This was followed by an opening prayer by Most Reverend Bishop Thomas Daly of the Diocese of Spokane.  

Bishop Daly, following a proclamation of the Good Samaritan Parable (i.e., Luke 10: 25-37), provided an exhortation for all to know “the why” behind Catholic healthcare and its connection to mercy. Lourdes Priest Chaplain Fr. Robert Nyeko then led, along with other employees, a litany of prayers for Brian and for the Lourdes Health community.  

After the prayer, Sr. Pat Rosholt, a sister of Saint Joseph of Carondelet and a board member, reminded those in attendance of the rich legacy of Lourdes Health. Starting with six women in Le Puy France who came together to care for their dear neighbor without distinction, Sr. Pat traced her order’s path to the U.S. and the eventual founding of Lourdes Health in 1916. She ended with gifting Brian a statue of our patron and namesake, Our Lady of Lourdes.  

Other speakers included the Market President and CEO, David Elgarico, the Med Exec Chair, Dr. Thomas King, and finally the Board of Trustee’s chair, Matt Henderson who formally commissioned Brian as the 26th CEO of Lourdes Health (excluding interim CEO’s) and gifted him with an etched glass plaque.  

The event ended with words of gratitude from Brian and a final blessing by Bishop Daly, who reminded the audience the importance of our patron, Our Lady of Lourdes, both in the history of the hospital and into the future. Celebrations continued after the ceremony with time for fellowship, hospitality, and words of encouragement.  

Please join us in continuing to welcome Brian Sims to Lourdes Health and our community!