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Archbishop Weisenburger Celebrates Historic Papal Election in Detroit

Archbishop Weisenburger celebrates the election of Pope Leo XIV in a festive Mass surrounded by community members.

News Summary

On May 18, Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger led a special Mass at St. Moses the Black to commemorate the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope. The event drew a diverse crowd of local parishioners and notable figures, including former deputy mayor Dr. Isaiah McKinnon. Attendees enjoyed a festive reception featuring regional cuisine and music, and Weisenburger emphasized the significance of Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to social justice and the unity of the Church. The ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the Catholic community both locally and internationally.

Detroit – On May 18, Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger held a special Mass at St. Moses the Black in Detroit to celebrate significant recent developments within the Catholic Church, particularly the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in history. The gathering attracted a vibrant mix of local parishioners, clergy, and notable guests, including Dr. Isaiah McKinnon, former deputy mayor of Detroit, and Ron Teasley, a 98-year-old former Negro Leagues baseball player, who greeted Weisenburger following the service.

After the Mass, attendees enjoyed a Detroit-themed reception featuring regional food and live music. This lively celebration allowed community members to come together and rejoice in both local culture and the historic papal election. Attending parishioners presented Weisenburger with a basket of gifts that included a Detroit Tigers baseball cap and apparel celebrating Detroit’s “313” area code.

Weisenburger expressed gratitude to God for the election of Pope Leo XIV, emphasizing the importance of this event for the Catholic community. The newly elected pope, Robert Prevost, has a rich background in missionary work and is respected for his pastoral insight as well as his significant experience within Vatican operations. Weisenburger highlighted Leo XIV’s commitment to social justice, compassion for the marginalized, and theological moderation, which he believes will guide the Church under the new pontificate.

The archbishop recounted the moment he learned of the election while in transit back to Michigan from Omaha. He shared that Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural speech was delivered in Italian, Latin, and Spanish, showcasing an inclusive approach aimed at uniting the global Church community. Recognizing the historical significance of having an American pope, Weisenburger acknowledged potential geopolitical implications but remained optimistic about Leo XIV’s leadership.

Weisenburger urged the community to pray for Pope Leo XIV as he embarks on his ministry as the successor to Saint Peter. Reflecting on the themes of love and discipleship during his homily at the Mass of Installation, the archbishop drew upon passages from the Gospel of John, emphasizing the different interpretations of love: agape (holy love) and philos (brotherly love). He encouraged the faithful to embody this divine love throughout their spiritual journeys.

The Mass of Installation, which took place at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit, featured ceremonial rituals representing the transfer of ecclesiastical authority. Approximately 900 attendees witnessed the event, which included a ceremonial procession of clergy donned in traditional vestments, such as mitres and zucchettos. Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the Vatican’s ambassador to the United States, participated in the ceremony, reading the appointment letter for Weisenburger. The event also demonstrated the unity of various faith communities, with leaders from diverse backgrounds present.

Archbishop Weisenburger succeeds Allen Vigneron, who now holds the title of archbishop emeritus. In an atmosphere filled with hope for the future, both Weisenburger’s heartfelt remarks and his emphasis on collaboration among different faiths signaled a commitment to fostering ecumenical relationships throughout the archdiocese.

This combination of celebration and reflection on leadership within the Church and community underscores a pivotal moment in both local and international Catholicism, as the faithful come together in support of their new pope and archbishop.