Letters & Articles from Archbishop Weisgerber

Getting acquainted with the Archdiocese

November, 2000

My dear friends,

Allow me to take this opportunity to express my thanks for the warm reception I have received from the clergy and faithful of the Archdiocese of Winnipeg.The dignity and joy of the ceremony of the installation at St. Mary ’s Cathedral in August was both exciting and inspiring. For me, it was most heartwarming.Thank you to all who participated in the deanery gatherings -- the three in Winnipeg and the events in Brandon and Dauphin. These regional gatherings demonstrate clearly and delightfully the differences in the communities that make up our diocesan church.

I am anxious to get to know all the parish communities of the Archdiocese.My plan is to visit as many as I can,as soon as I can. Confirmation,in the spring, will be a good opportunity to meet many of you in your parishes. Some impressions after a couple of months: I am pleasantly surprised by the strong and rich ethnicity of many parish communities. I am constantly surprised by the size of Winnipeg and I never give myself enough time to cover the distance. Sorry for being late! I am much consoled by your good will, which has been warmly demonstrated by your openness to acceptance of me. I am consoled by your faith and devotion so well expressed in fine liturgies.

I am concerned by the small number of seminarians (we have quality,though,even though insufficient quantity). I am concerned,too,by the great workload we are placing on our priests.

Once again,let me assure you that I am happy to be here in the Archdiocese and I look forward to collaborating with all of you in these very exciting times.

Fraternally yours in Our Lord,

+James Weisgerber
Archbishop of Winnipeg

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