On Thursday, the Archdiocese of Boston celebrated the Installation Mass of Archbishop Richard Henning, marking a momentous occasion as he became the seventh archbishop of Boston. In a Mass at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, Archbishop Henning was warmly welcomed by a congregation of over 1,400 guests, including 50 bishops and 500 priests, who gathered to welcome him as he steps into his new ministry as Archbishop of Boston.
The day carried a deep sense of tradition, history, and unity within the Catholic community of Boston. Attending from Saint John’s Seminary were faculty members, students, and seminarians, each there to witness this historic moment.
Henning succeeds Cardinal Sean O’Malley, who served Boston faithfully for over two decades, leaving an indelible legacy that Henning both reveres and humbly aims to follow. In his address, Archbishop Henning spoke reverently of O'Malley's dedication, noting, “I think his legacy is remarkable, I know that will be true for generations to come. I’m not sure they make them like him anymore… I have no illusions that I will replace him, I will do my best to follow him.”
At the conclusion of the Mass, Archbishop Henning shared a personal message with the seminarians in attendance, reflecting on his own journey and vocation. “If I was transported back to that Cathedral, back in 1992, I would say Yes again, and I think I would say yes again with even more joy because now I know the grace of the priesthood,” he said. He encouraged the seminarians with a sincere blessing: “So my sincere prayer for you, our seminarians, is that God will complete the good work He has begun in you. I am grateful for your response to the call.”
Archbishop Henning’s example of faith and his commitment to the Church serve as a powerful testament to the joy and grace of priestly life.
As the Archdiocese enters a new era, the Saint John’s Seminary community stands ready to support Archbishop Henning, united in faith and eager to work toward a future built on the legacy of those who have come before, while embracing the fresh vision of the new Archbishop.
Adding to the excitement, Archbishop Henning will be a special guest at the upcoming Saint John's Seminary Gala on November 14 at the Museum of Fine Arts. This event celebrates the seminary's 140th Anniversary and promises to be a significant evening honoring the legacy, mission, and future of Saint John's Seminary. The presence of Archbishop Henning at this landmark celebration underscores his commitment to the seminary and its pivotal role in nurturing future leaders of the Church.
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