From Father Jim
The Archdiocese of Mobile Rejoices…
On June 6, 2008, the faithful of the Archdiocese of Mobile witnessed and celebrated a momentous event. A new shepherd was welcomed into our midst. Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi became our second Archbishop and the ninth bishop of Mobile. Archbishop Rodi is a native of New Orleans and came to us by way of Biloxi, where he has served as bishop of the southern half of Mississippi for the last 7 years.
It was a privileged to be present for the moving moment, when Archbishop Rodi and Archbishop Lipscomb embraced one another as Archbishop Rodi took the cathedra and possession of the Archdiocese.
At that moment a new chapter was being written for the Archdiocese of Mobile. Archbishop Rodi reached out in his homily to his new diocese addressing the community gathered in English, Spanish and a phrase of Vietnamese. He reached out to our sisters and brothers representing other faiths, saying that he looked forward to collaborating with them. He asked the small but powerful Catholic community of Alabama to remain steadfast in faith; trumpeting the cause of Life from conception to natural death.
The new archbishop seemed to be at ease with his new flock. As a Catholic community we are ready to embrace Archbishop Rodi and await with anticipation his leadership and example.
At the same time, there were moments of nostalgia and thanksgiving as we reflected on the faithful servant who leaves us in good hands. Archbishop Oscar H. Lipscomb retires after nearly 28 years of service as the Archbishop of Mobile. He has been faithful and a good shepherd. We give thanks to God for his example and the blessing of his life among us.
My sisters and brother let us pray for our local church in Mobile and for our new archbishop. Let us ask God to keep us faithful in love and service.
Peace,
Fr. Jim Cink