World News
Bishop Bradley installed to head Diocese of Kalamazoo
Published: June 11, 2009
KALAMAZOO, Mich. (CNS) -- Kalamazoo's new bishop used his first homily to express his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the 38-year-old diocese. "I thank God that in his divine plan he has called me to be the fourth bishop of Kalamazoo," said Bishop Paul J. Bradley, who also thanked Pope Benedict XVI for entrusting him with the position. Bishop Bradley's installation Mass was celebrated June 5 at the city's St. Augustine Cathedral. The new bishop used his homily largely as an opportunity to define his responsibilities and address some of the key issues facing the area's Catholics. Bishop Bradley said his primary role as a diocesan bishop is to pray for and with others through the church. He also stated that bishops have a responsibility to "teach, proclaim and live the good news of Jesus." Bishop Bradley asked the priests and deacons of the Kalamazoo Diocese to pray for him in his new position. The diocese is home to a significant population of Spanish-speaking Catholics, a fact Bishop Bradley acknowledged by briefly addressing these parishioners in their native language. The bishop encouraged both English- and Spanish-speaking members of the diocese to remain united as a church.
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