Blase Cupich and Chicago: The job that awaits

Chicago Tribune
September 21, 2014

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/editorials/ct-chicago-archbishop-cupich-cardinal-george-edit--20140921-story.html

"Pray hard."

—Archbishop-designate Blase Cupich, texting a Spokane priest who congratulated him on his papal appointment in Chicago.

What kind of archbishop will Blase Cupich be? The question swept this metropolis over the weekend, and not only among the 2.2 million Roman Catholics in the Archdiocese of Chicago. His easy manner, gentle humor and track record suggest that he may be a reflection of Pope Francis — hewing closely to immutable church teachings and policies, but warmly welcoming in tone to those who question or disagree.

If the yearning to understand a new spiritual leader comes naturally — especially for the diverse flock he'll shepherd — it isn't the most important question for greater Chicago. To its members, the Catholic Church is foremost a faith, a protocol of personal beliefs and other-oriented actions. For all of us, though, this particular organization is something more: As our largest private provider of education, health care and social services, the Catholic Church touches vast numbers of Chicagoland lives. Whoever runs the show matters — to us all.