At least for me, it's exciting

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 I received word last night of some news from the Vatican for the Church in the United States.  That makes twice in the last month!

I verified it this morning that Robert Cardinal McElroy, former Archbishop of San Diego, CA, is moving to take over the position of Archbishop of Washington DC.  Now, while that has some implications with it, it's great news to me.

As I look ahead to taking a sabbatical next year, I plan to be in the San Diego area and was hoping that the Cardinal might still be there to connect with him once again.  You see, I met him several years ago at my previous assignment in Matteson, IL.  His sister was a very involved parishioner -- a very talented and very well-known, yet humble person.  Patti died of cancer while I was away on vacation and when I received that news, I was asked if it would be okay for her brother (then Bishop) Robert McElroy of San Francisco could be the celebrant.  No trouble there at all!  However, it was still going to take place before I came home from vacation.  Bummer.  But the story improves for a change.

You see, when Patti's son was in 8th grade at our school, he decided not to receive the sacrament of confirmation.  His decision.  Patti was okay with it too.  However, after Patti's death, her son decided to be confirmed through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults program.  <DING!> <Fabulous idea alert!>  What if I ask Bishop McElroy if he was coming to Illinois to support his nephew, and IF so, the HE could do the confirmation part of the Easter Vigil for all of the people becoming fully initiated Catholics that night.  And he did!

I was not asking him to preside at the whole Vigil.  That's a lot to ask for from a visitor priest.  I didn't even ask him to preach -- just confirm.  I hope it didn't come across as insubordinate.  My heart was pounding with joy and excitement at that point.  Imagine what I am like now!

Cardinal McElroy is known for his commitment to social justice in his time in San Diego.  He is very bright and witty.  He possesses a strong personality which may be necessary when it comes to being the Cardinal of our nation's capital.  I don't know how often one needs to relate to politicians in their position as a bishop.  So I believe he will be up to the challenge that lies ahead in that area of his work.

He is still, at the same time, a gentle and compassionate man who genuine wants the Church to push forward in hope for the return of the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ad multos annos, Robert Cardinal McElroy!!!

Fr. Mike

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