Herald of Hope
I have been present at many installations. In the military, when there is a change in command, the entire unit gathers to acknowledge that a new commander will be established to govern the military command. There is a parade of impressive implements used to protect and defend the country. The leader is in charge and reminded that he governs with the authority placed in his leadership. Those who attend understand that they follow the leadership for the good of the country. We serve under the direction of this new commander.
In academia, when a president of a college or university is named, there is an installation ceremony establishing the leader’s vision. A procession begins the ceremony, and the various disciplines of the university make their way into the auditorium. Usually, the chancellor bestows the symbol of authority upon the new president. The president then offers words of gratitude and gives his vision for the university community.
Installations are impressive ceremonies. The purpose is to highlight a change but, at the same time, a continuity with the past achievements connecting our lives to the mission that is established.
An installation of a bishop or, in this case, an archbishop is very impressive. The spiritual dimension of the ceremony adds a sense of importance, capturing the moment of transition which transcends more than a change of leadership but supports God’s involvement in everything we do. It is a moment of celebration for the local Church and the Church universal as well.
It was 15 years ago when I rapped the door of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist with a ceremonial hammer. It is hard to believe that time has passed. At times, it seems 100 years ago, and at other times, just yesterday. I think back to that moment not knowing what would happen in the days, months and years ahead. I know that those same thoughts will challenge Archbishop Jeffrey S. Grob. However, I did know then, and I am confident that Archbishop Grob knows, that our Lord will be with us. And I can testify that he has been with us through the most difficult of times.
My sister, Penny, saved a copy of the Herald of Hope about the day of my installation. She asked if I would like to see it. There is a danger in looking back at what you wrote 15 years ago — whether you kept the promises you made on that day. On that day, I promised that I would serve the archdiocese with every ounce of my being. I can tell you I have fulfilled that promise. I knew we would be facing some difficult problems, but I knew from the very start the strength of the faith of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee would guide us. There were many who assisted me without whose help we could never have accomplished the wonderful work for the sake of our community.
The day of the installation, my predecessor, Archbishop (now Cardinal) Timothy Dolan, could not have been more gracious. Every archbishop leaves his mark on the archdiocese, and one builds on the works of his predecessors. Then-Archbishop Dolan was faced with some difficult problems, not the least of which was restoring the confidence of the people of the archdiocese. His great personality quickly captivated the Milwaukee community. He reestablished a commitment to Christ, and his love for the Church was evident in everything he did. People loved him for the trust he instilled in their faith, and I know he loved the people of the archdiocese. Because of his efforts, I knew this was a new moment for the archdiocese and I was able to build a vision going forward.
When Archbishop Grob is seated in the Cathedra (chair), this will be a sign of his episcopal leadership. I have occupied that chair for 15 years. It has born my coat of arms. Now the chair bears the coat of arms of the new archbishop. I have felt the weight of the souls entrusted to my care and it has been a privilege. Now Archbishop Grob embraces that responsibility, and I know that he will serve the people and archdiocesan family that I have come to love with a true priestly heart.
Various leaders of our Catholic community, ecumenical and civic leaders will be introduced. This is a reminder that as an archbishop, his collaboration is needed to achieve the goals necessary for the common good of our society. I am confident that Archbishop Grob will carry out the teachings of the Church as a true servant of the Church. He has been appointed to lead. It is not easy to proclaim the Church’s teachings in a world filled with attacks on the dignity of human life, but the shepherd does so out of love for those he is called to serve.
I remembered toward the end of my installation, as I was thanking so many people who have contributed to the day, that I mentioned a favorite TV show of my sister. In “Dancing with the Stars,” various personalities team up with professional dancers to demonstrate their skills and compete against others. I intimated that now our dance begins, and I hoped I would not step on too many toes but instead we would join our skills together and perform to the best of our ability for the good of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee and for Christ and his Church.
I now relinquish my position as a dance partner for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee to Archbishop Jeffery S. Grob, who I am confident will lead our Church with grace and humility, gaining the love and admiration of the people he will shepherd.
