The keys of the kingdom turned quietly last week as our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, made concrete once again Christ’s promise to be with us always until the end of time. Choosing a bishop is a profound action made more so when we remember that Christ’s presence among us is visibly guaranteed through our bishops who are the successors of the Apostles.
A whisper of words plus the convenience of technology made it possible for the pope’s ambassador to the United States, Archbishop Vigano, to contact Bishop Doran and inform him of the pontiff’s choice to be Bishop of Rockford. The selection of Monsignor David Malloy as Bishop-elect of Rockford brought a smile to the face of our Bishop and, as more of the faithful hear the news, a joyful recognition that our diocese truly has been blessed.
It has been thirteen months since Bishop Doran reached his 75th birthday and submitted his resignation to the pope. Many people were beginning to think the process of choosing a new bishop was taking forever. No other institution seems to take so long to pick new leadership ... really? Hmm. There was a primary this week in Illinois and some of the candidates are into their fifth year of running for President of the United States. Here, certainly, is a process that is taking forever!
Bishop-elect Malloy comes with an impressive resume. Trained to be a diplomat for the Vatican in some of the world’s most difficult areas, he has also served as pastor and priest to ordinary folks here in this country. Learned in the ways of theology, he has also helped our bishops navigate through treacherous waters as they seek to cleanse our Church of corruption and speak the Gospel to a secular world.
It is not his many talents that should make us pause. Rather, we should reflect on a decision David Malloy made many years ago to answer the call and serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as a priest. This quiet yes he gave in his heart is worth looking at. He promised to walk wherever Christ and the Church led him. Everywhere he has journeyed, he has served with distinction and humility. He is first and foremost a priest, and that is why we rejoice.
He and Bishop Doran know each other well. Not all transitions go smoothly, but this one will. Why? Both these men love God, the Church, and the people they serve. In a tumultuous world where little is known for sure, we can be grateful that just as he has always done in the past 2000 years, the Holy Spirit has given the Church a new leader, a good shepherd, and a dedicated pastor to guide his people. I asked Bishop Doran if he is happy with the appointment of Bishop-elect Malloy. “Oh yes,” he said with the first relaxed smile I have seen on his face in many months. “This is a great appointment.” I could tell Bishop Doran felt he had been blessed. We should feel the same.
Pope Benedict knew what he was doing when he chose our new bishop. We can thank God for the good things Bishop Doran has done for us. He leaves a diocese that is seen throughout our country as strong, vigorous and faithful. The past is secure; with new leadership the future appears bright. Jesus wanted us to trust that he would never leave us alone. The passing on of Christ’s authority through the bishops as the successors of the Apostles has to be one of the most visible signs of Christ’s continued presence on earth. So breathe a prayer of thanks; God’s got us — in fact the whole world — in his hands. God’s blessings on you Bishop-elect Malloy! Welcome to Rockford!