March 11, 2011

Thank you for a beautiful ordination

Most Rev. Daniel M. Buechlein, O.S.B.The ordination of Bishop Christopher J. Coyne on March 2 as our new auxiliary bishop was a historic moment for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis.

He is only the third auxiliary bishop in the 177-year history of our archdiocese.

We thank God for Bishop Coyne and for all the blessings showered upon the Church in central and southern Indiana.

Bishop Coyne’s ordination Mass was truly moving and inspiring, and there are many people to thank. It was a marvelous demonstration of the wonder that God works through us when we unite in faith and selfless charity.

The presence of Cardinal Seán Patrick O’Malley, the Archbishop of Boston, and several of my brother bishops, priests and Archabbot Justin DuVall of Saint Meinrad Archabbey made the ordination all the more special.

On behalf of all the laity, religious and clergy, I offer grateful prayers for everyone who shouldered the planning, did the heavy lifting and offered the sweat equity of worry over the myriad details of hospitality and a splendid, noble liturgy.

I pray that we can hold on to the joy and lift the spirit granted to our local Church as a blessing that carries us forward with our new auxiliary bishop.

Heartfelt special thanks to Annette “Mickey” Lentz, who coordinated the planning of the Mass and surrounding events.

Other key individuals in the planning included Father Patrick Beidelman, Greg Otolski, Ford Cox, Charles Gardner, Carolyn Noone, Christina Tuley, Father James Bonke, Cathy Mayer, Dianne Adams, Tom Nichols and musicians, Father Rick Nagel and the behind-the-scenes staff of St. John the Evangelist Parish.

I’d also like to thank all of the young adults, Catholic Center staff and other volunteers who provided invaluable assistance.

Heartfelt congratulations and thank you, one and all!

Most Rev. Daniel M. Buechlein, O.S.B.
Archbishop of Indianapolis

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