It is clear that our Lenten practices cannot be ‘private.’ This season of conversion is an invitation to first be reconciled with Christ and then to be Christ-like in our relationships with one another.
What more could any parent want for their child than to help them know and follow Jesus Christ in this life to the life that is eternal? This is the primary benefit of Catholic education, strengthening a student’s relationship with Jesus Christ and his church.
Our God is very near and he comes in humility and with love. God who created the universe, now dares to be born in time, born of a virgin, born in human flesh, coming in the weakness and dependence of a new-born child. He comes as pure gift, not imposing himself upon anyone, but present to all who would receive him.
On the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe we ask for the grace to be ‘with God’s people’ in such a way as to credibly carry the faith into the culture of our time.
As mentioned at the front doors of the cathedral this evening, I come to you as your new Archbishop. I come to you as a pastor, a brother, a friend. I come with an open heart; a heart filled with gratitude for the wonderful and surprising ways of God.
The following is the homily that Anchorage Archbishop Paul Etienne delivered at his installation Mass on Nov. 9 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Co-Cathedral in Anchorage.