STrib: Thousands welcome Hebda as new Twin Cities archbishop; pledges transparency, accountability

Archbishop Bernard Hebda was installed as the ninth archbishop of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis Friday afternoon, pledging greater attention to the poor and a more open, accountable church.

Hebda said Twin Cities Catholics have told him they want a church that is “more transparent, more accountable … and more engaged in the work of evangelization.”

“I’m all in,” he told the thousands of supporters who packed the Cathedral of St. Paul.

Hebda also repeatedly said that it’s not possessions, but “only Jesus,” that makes a difference in life. He noted that Jesus sent his apostles out to spread the gospel without provisions, not even walking sticks. He joked that would be the equivalent today of sending them off “without cellphones, Internet, legal counsel …”

Hebda’s first homily as archbishop was warmly received by those who traveled from across the metro and beyond to witness the historic installation of a new archbishop. The ceremony was steeped in ancient tradition, with processions of bishops, priests, sword-carrying Knights of Columbus, Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulchre in floor-length robes, and others.
continue at Star Tribune

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