Future Chicago archbishop speaks to parishioners
CHICAGO (AP) — The bishop set to become the leader of the third-largest diocese in the United States vowed Monday night that he will be active in the Chicago community by pushing for immigration reform, battling gang violence and helping the poor.
Blase Cupich delivered the homily at Holy Name Cathedral, speaking to hundreds of civic and religious leaders, including his retiring predecessor, Cardinal Francis George.
"You will find me a ready partner," said Cupich, who on Tuesday will officially become the archbishop of Chicago, overseeing an archdiocese that includes more than 2 million parishioners.
The service, called the Rite of Reception, started shortly after 7 p.m. Monday, with Cupich striking Holy Name's front door three times, the sound of each blow reverberating through the hushed cathedral.
The door, symbolic of Jesus, swung open and then a procession slowly made its way down the center aisle, with applause erupting at the site of the 65-year-old Cupich and the 77-year-old George, who seemed frail from his battle with cancer, walking slowly behind him.
The service is at once steeped in tradition and symbolism, also marks the first time in the history of this archdiocese that a new bishop has assumed leadership while his predecessor is still alive.
With George sitting in the cathedra, the ceremonial chair that is occupied by the archbishop of Chicago, Cupich greeted several religious and civic leaders, including Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. ...
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