The Story of God's Love
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The Story of God's Love

Archbishop Listecki celebrates 16 years as a bishop.

Archbishop Listecki


Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee
 

 

Happy Anniversary to me! Happy Anniversary to me! Last Sunday, I celebrated my 16th year as a bishop. I was ordained a bishop at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago. The day was clear but cold, just like this past Sunday. Cardinal Francis George imposed hands on me, assisted by the co-consecrators Archbishop James Keleher, Kansas City, Kan., and Archbishop John Vlazny, Portland, Ore. Both archbishops were long-time priest friends, whom I admired as a seminarian and a priest.

Like many married couples, I watched a video tape of my (ordination) ceremony – although my marriage was to the Church through Christ graciously sharing His bride with me. It was a reminder to me of how many people have influenced and supported my priesthood, and how gracious they were to share this episcopal moment. I also viewed my mother, many relatives, priests and friends who are no longer with us in this world, but present in the video as believers, enjoying the fruits of their dedication to Christ and His Church.

For my ordination anniversary, I celebrated the day by joining friends in downtown Chicago for a matinee production of the hit Broadway sensation, “Hamilton,” the hottest ticket in town. I was accompanied my friends, Dr. Terry and Judy Loughlin, and their son, Connor. 

I married Terry and Judy 33 years ago, and baptized Connor. Judy was a member of my St. Margaret Mary Youth Group in my first priestly assignment. Judy would like me to say that she was permitted to be a member of the teen club as a preschooler, but that would certainly be stretching the truth. It was hard to believe that their son, Connor, the little baby I baptized, is now an engineering student in a demanding program at the University of Illinois. After dinner, I made my way back to Milwaukee. I couldn’t help but think that this is one of the residual blessings of a priest – the richness of friendship brought about only because of the Church.

“Hamilton” was a spectacular production. I would describe it as a “rap operetta.” I am not a fan of rap, but it definitely worked. The figure of Hamilton was portrayed as a person who had to struggle to achieve a place in the burgeoning American society. It was a tribute to the many men and women determined to contribute to the growth of our country. It is a fact that Alexander Hamilton’s contributions were major, but he never seemed to receive the recognition that he deserved. His face appears on the $10 bill, but he is often overlooked when it comes to naming our founding fathers. Powerful voices captured the vision of a new nation. I am a Washington admirer, and George is a pivotal character in the movement of the production. 

Aaron Burr (the person who kills Hamilton in a duel) and Hamilton confront one another throughout the development, playing off of their relationship and creating a dynamic movement of progression through their interaction. King George III is an especially delightful character, appearing at different interludes as a comic relief, and commenting upon the revolutionary experience. At one point, he claims that he is sending his troops to the new colony to kill its citizens because he loves them. At the end of the musical, Hamilton’s wife asks the question, “Who will tell the story?” and this chant is taken up by the cast. How is one to be remembered?

In Christianity, there is one story that all of us participate in. The story of God’s eternal love made manifest through his Son who suffered, died, rose and ascended into heaven. There is, for the believer, one measure of success. Were we an instrument of His Love in this world? 

It is important to remember that He will never forget us, and the story will always be told. His image is carved into our spirits. We are citizens of His kingdom and we are subject to His command to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.  

Note: This blog originally appeared as the January 10, 2017 "Love One Another" email sent to Catholics throughout the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki. If you are interested in signing up for these email messages, please click here.

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