The Weight of Glory

Today's Catholic Spirit features a series of articles about Archbishop Harry J. Flynn as he prepares to retire. The whole issue is worth a read, but I especially enjoyed coadjutor archbishop John C. Nienstedt's article highlighting Flynn's legacy, and also an interview with Flynn:

There has been concern expressed by some people around the archdiocese about the leadership transition that has been taking place and that will be finalized when you retire. Do you have any concerns about that?

No. I think in every change, there's wonderment. As I've said before and I say it again: We're all different personalities. I might have emphasized things that Archbishop Roach didn't emphasize. And Archbishop Nienstedt might emphasize certain areas that I didn't emphasize. But out of all of this is a beautiful tapestry. And, as long as God is being served, and as long as the beauty of Jesus Christ is being handed over, that's all that's necessary, and it comes in different packages.

Do you have a parting message for the people of the archdiocese as you move into a new stage of your ministry?

Yes. Love the church. Love the church. Love the church. And remember that the church is the presence of Jesus Christ in our world.