Update: Installation of Bishop Callahan - Vespers

After taking my parents out to dinner in honor of their 48th wedding anniversary, we proceeded to St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral for Vespers. Bishop Callahan was welcomed into the Cathedral for the first time and, after prayer before the Most Blessed Sacrament of the Eucharist, Solemn Vespers began. Wow!!!

The music was gorgeous! Dr. Brian Luckner composed much of the music and it was glorious - an emminently prayerful experience.

I had a little surprise once we started, the new Noack chancel organ (14 ranks) has been completed and was used tonight. Very beautiful. Makes me even more excited for the completion of the main gallery organ (58 ranks) which will be dedicated on Nov. 7, 2010.

Fr. Paul Hoffman, newly ordained priest of the diocese, gave an excellent homily.

Afterwords, many commented on what a beautiful cathedral we have in La Crosse. (I would agree most heartily. I think it's the most beautiful and worthy cathedral in Wisconsin, and one of the top cathedrals in the upper mid-west. I might be a little biased, but I also think it true!)

All in all, a worthy reception for our (almost) new bishop!

In the receiving line, Bishop Callahan gave my parents a blessing for their anniversary which will be tomorrow. A connection for the three of them in the sharing of an anniversary from now on.

It was wonderful to see Archbishop Listecki, our Metropolitan, again. He will always be remembered with fondness and respect. And, of course, it's also wonderful to see folks from around the diocese. It's very much a "family reunion" or sorts.

Tomorrow will be even bigger! Oh, boy!