In Rome, Houston prelate links bishop's role with Ascension

Published: 2004-05-21

ROME (CNS) -- Bishops can draw fresh strength and missionary zeal from Christ's ascension into heaven, Bishop Joseph A. Fiorenza of Galveston-Houston said in a homily in Rome's Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. "When Jesus ascended to the skies, the apostles were filled with joy. But isn't it strange they would be happy he left them on earth to go to his father in heaven?" he said in the homily May 20, the feast of the Ascension of the Lord. "But during the 40 days from his resurrection, Jesus appeared to them many times and showed them he was truly alive. They were happy that though he had been dead he had returned in a new and beautiful way," he told about 50 pilgrims who attended the Mass. Twenty-two other U.S. bishops from Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Fiorenza. The bishops were in Rome for their May 16-22 "ad limina" visits, which they must make every five years to report on the status of their dioceses.

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