Cupich Knocking On The Door As Next Cardinal In Chicago
CHICAGO (CBS) -- After four days of spiritual reflection, the installation of Chicago's next Roman Catholic archbishop begins Monday night.
Blase Cupich becomes only the ninth Archbishop of Chicago. He said his predecessors have been "wonderful people for many generations."
Tonight, he begins to walk in the steps of Archbishops Patrick Feehan and James Quigley, and Cardinals George Mundelein, Samuel Stritch, Albert Meyer, John Patrick Cody, Joseph Bernardin and Francis George by knocking on the doors to Holy Name Cathedral, an ancient Catholic Rite of Reception in which Cathedral Rector Msgr. Dan Mayall, will present him with a crucifix and lead him to the front of the church. There he will be greeted by key advisers and civic leaders, including Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn.
Cupich, who is Croatian-American, also will be greeted by the Croatian consul general and a number of the leaders of other faiths from the Chicago area. He will then preach the homily. An informal reception is scheduled after the rite concludes.
It's the beginning of a busy week that also will include a "small gathering" arranged by Emanuel at which 300 civic leaders are expected.
Cupich's extended family are in town for the installation ceremonies. His parents have passed away, but Cupich showed a sense of humor about the pomp and ceremony that will be evident this week when questioned during his arrival Thursday.
"I just wish my parents could have been here to hear particularly what was said, because my father would be proud and my mother would have believed it," he said with a laugh.
Cardinal George will begin the liturgy, in one of his last official acts before retirement. The formal Rite of Installation takes place Tuesday.