Time and again I look at our Cathedral and stand in awe at the work of our ancestors. Over the last 8 years, I've discovered details that were sometimes hidden in corners and at vaulting caps; beading over the area of the former sanctuary (1869) and passion flowers that are suspended over the present sanctuary. I've visited the crypt containing the earthly remains of our first five bishops, and prayed there in thanksgiving for the foundation they've laid for us.

Today, I happened to drive north on Pine Street and looked up at the new roof. It caught me by surprise because, despite the number of times I've looked at it from the street, I haven't "happened" upon it by driving on Pine. I saw it and actually gasped.

The design and execution of the roof is exquisite and I purposely rode around the block again just to look at it again. It dawned on me that this project is something of a symbol of our experience as the Cathedral parish. We are being recrafted, reshaped and gaining a new sense of "self." As I looked at the Cathedral and thought of all of the hidden details, I thought of our people. For 141 years, the people of this parish have worked, prayed, and grown into a community of faith. For 126 years, we've been privileged to be the seat of the diocese and set an example of prayer, education, and charity. Now, as I look at the beauty of the new roof, I think of the beauty of the people who make up not only the parish, but the "Cathedral parish."

Our Catholic community is exquisite; our Catholic faith is priceless; our history is rich. Now as we rebuild, we can take great pride in our past, celebrate our present, and participate joyfully in creating a future. I'm so happy I drove up Pine Street today because it made me think of you!