Visits from the Bishop
Our parish, located about thirty miles from the cathedral in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania received very few visits from our bishop, George Leach. But when he did come, it was a huge event. Lots of ring kissing and other hoopla.
He was a kindly, fatherly man who came to town at least once a year to confer the sacrament of Confirmation to the group of twelve year olds who attended the four Catholic schools in our town. In those days, there was no auxiliary bishop, only Bishop Leach.
I recall that one time he visited our class room. Our nun lined us up and each of us was allowed to approach Bishop Leach, genuflect, kiss his ring and receive his individual blessing. this made a big impression as I still recall the day and my saying "thank you, your excellency" after my turn.
The nun reminded us of the idea of apostolic succession and how important a man Bishop Leach was.
Any similar memories out there?
He was a kindly, fatherly man who came to town at least once a year to confer the sacrament of Confirmation to the group of twelve year olds who attended the four Catholic schools in our town. In those days, there was no auxiliary bishop, only Bishop Leach.
I recall that one time he visited our class room. Our nun lined us up and each of us was allowed to approach Bishop Leach, genuflect, kiss his ring and receive his individual blessing. this made a big impression as I still recall the day and my saying "thank you, your excellency" after my turn.
The nun reminded us of the idea of apostolic succession and how important a man Bishop Leach was.
Any similar memories out there?
