Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee
 

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Last Sunday I presided at the Archdiocese of Milwaukee’s Rite of Election, which took place at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. It is always astounding to me the way our Lord works in the lives of the faithful. I mentioned to our rector and pastor of the cathedral, Fr. Timothy Kitzke, how much I enjoyed this moment in our yearly liturgical practices, and he echoed the same sentiment. This is the growth of the Church celebrated here in the Mother Church of our archdiocese, and an indication of the work of the Holy Spirit alive in the 10 counties of southeast Wisconsin.
 
Each of us possess a unique story that has been fashioned by God, and it’s our obligation to follow the path that leads us into a closer relationship with Jesus, our Lord and Savior. At the Rite of Election, there were those seeking Baptism (catechumens) and others professing their desire for full communion in the Church (candidates). I made a comment about individual stories, because to me, it’s always an affirmation of the saying, “God writes straight with crooked lines.” Attributed to St. Teresa of Avila, she was a spiritual guide whose practical insights influenced many.
 
There are a multitude of reasons why a person chooses to convert to Catholicism. Of course, there are those who are brought to the faith through the example of other believers. They see Christ in that person, and also see their confidence and trust in Christ and the Church. I have heard people tell me that they too desired that confidence and trust for themselves, realizing that it is only through Jesus Christ and a commitment to the Church that it can be achieved.
 
With others seeking to join the faith, it is the spouse in a marriage whose practice brings a sense of tranquility to the relationship. The partner wants to share in the practice of the faith, knowing that it will bring them closer together. And the rarest movement to conversion are those that come to convert through an intellectual assessment. Their study directs them to a truth they cannot deny that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior, and His Church reflects His presence in the world.
 
The beauty of the Church is that we are family. I have been welcomed in Churches across the globe. There is a connectedness that comes from Baptism into the Church. We are immediate family through blood; we are family through adoption; and we are family through marriage. Through the “blood” of Christ on the cross, we are made one – it is in our DNA. Through His sonship, we are adopted sons and daughters of the Father. He claims us for Himself. In our embrace of the Church, the “bride of Christ,” that marriage invites us into the family.
 
This is our family, the Church, and this last Sunday, we celebrated those who desired a seat at the table. Applause filled the cathedral as the congregation was inspired to welcome the new catechumens and candidates who witness to our faith, and they remind all of us of just how grateful we should be for the gift of faith. Together as brothers and sisters, we pledge that in the name of Christ and His Church, we will strive to LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Sincerely,

Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki

Archbishop of Milwaukee          

Note: This blog originally appeared as the February 20, 2024, "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.