By Deirdre Cox Baker
Quad-City Times [Davenport IA]
October 12, 2006
http://www.qctimes.net/articles/2006/10/12/news/local/doc452e4b103d597403924296.txt
Saying his prayers have been answered, Bishop William Franklin officially announced his retirement this morning before introducing his successor, Bishop Martin Amos of Cleveland, Ohio.
Franklin spoke at a mid-morning press conference at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Davenport. Attending were several dozen people from the local religious community and associated with the diocese.
"I'm now the second-oldest bishop in the United States," the 76-year-old Franklin said. "I'm the seventh oldest of bishops in the world."
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Franklin has prayed for a new bishop for 17 months, he said, since he turned 75 in May 2005. "With delight, I introduce you to Bishop Amos."
Amos, 65, joked with the audience and gave a brief biography. He has lived his entire life in the Diocese of Cleveland and entered the priesthood in 1968.
"But it's been a roller coaster time," he said of the past few days, adding that he's excited to be on "a new path in my life's journey."
The diocese has serious issues to address, Amos said, including this week's decision to declare bankruptcy in federal court.
"We will continue to reach out to those touched by sexual abuse," he said.
The new bishop will return to Cleveland this afternoon and move to Davenport shortly before his installation on Nov. 20.
Amos outlined his perception of the job ahead before ending his part of the news conference.
"I wish to be a loving father, generous shepherd, and wise teacher of my people," he said.
Deirdre Cox Baker can be contacted at (563) 383-2492 or dbaker@qctimes.com.
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