Bishop Donald Hying Installed As New Head Of Gary Diocese
(CBS) -- He is the youngest of six and now the leader of Gary's Catholic community.
CBS 2's Derrick Blakley reports at Gary's Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, with Cardinal George and Archbishop Cupich there to welcome him, 51-year-old Donald Hying greeted his new diocese with humility and humor.
"Thank you for opening the door when I knocked on it…it was really cold out there," Bishop Hying said.
His appointment is another step by Pope Francis to reshape church leadership in his own image and parishoners from Milwaukee, where Hying served as auxiliary bishop, say, he shares the pope's style.
"He doesn't declare and demand, he invites," said Jerry Felsecker.
"He is so laid back, he is very engaging, open," said John Herbert. "When you talk to him, you are the only person in the room."
Still, Hying paid tribute to Cardinal George, the conservative stalwart, who he called one of his heroes.
"And your loving fidelity to the church even as you suffered cancer is a beautiful example for all of us," Hying said.
In his homily, Hying generously compared the three wise men who visited Christ to today's tri-state visitors welcoming him.
"We have many Hoosiers from Indiana, a significant number of Cheeseheads from Wisconsin and even some Flatlanders from that mysterious land which the natives call Illinois." Hying said.
Hying succeeds Bishop Dale Melczek, who retired at age 76 after 18 years leading the diocese. Hying says he'll spend his first few months visiting the parishes and schools to become familiar with the community.
