advertisement

Cupich: Pope sending a bishop, not a message

CHICAGO - The bishop chosen by Pope Francis to be the new head of the Archdiocese of Chicago said Saturday that people should not read too much into the decision about the Catholic Church's future direction.

Bishop Blase (BLAHZ') Cupich (SOO'-pihch), of Spokane, Washington, has been described as a moderate and has called for civility in the culture wars.

During a news conference in Chicago, Cupich was asked several times about whether he would shift direction as a successor to Cardinal Francis George, who is particularly admired in the church's conservative wing.

He responded simply that he would be himself and it was up to others to decide whether that constituted a change.

Cupich also said it was wrong to think of his appointment as a strong signal from Pope Francis about the direction he wants to steer American church leaders.

"I think the holy father is a pastoral man," Cupich said. "I think that his priority is not to send a message but a bishop. And that's what he's sending you, someone to serve the needs of people. I wouldn't want to in any way overly politicize or put this in a different context."

  Bishop Blase Cupich, Cardinal George's successor as head of the Chicago Archdiocese, addresses the media Saturday morning in Chicago. Cardinal George is seated behind him. Madhu Krishnamurthy/mkrishnamurthy@dailyherald.com
Associated PressIn this June 30, 2010, file photo, Bishop Blase Cupich, 61, of Rapid City, S.D., poses for a photo at The Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes after his announcement in Spokane, Wash. Cupich will be named the next archbishop of Chicago. Cupich will succeed Cardinal Francis George.
Cardinal Francis George, retiring leader of the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago, left, shakes hands with newly appointed Archbishop of Chicago, Bishop Blase Cupich, after Cupich spoke to the media during a news conference in Chicago, Saturday, Sept. 20. Associated Press
Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.