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Catholics are encouraged to embrace their baptismal call to "knock on the doors of people's hearts," according to Bishop Bruce A. Lewandowski, who delivered this message during his installation Mass as the new bishop of Providence on May 20.
Bishop Lewandowski emphasized the need for Catholics to step out of their comfort zones and engage with others. "Being a church that knocks on doors means you move out of your comfort zone, that you're brave and fearless and bold," he stated. He urged the faithful to share their experiences of Jesus with others.
Before his installation at the Cathedral of SS. Peter and Paul, Bishop Lewandowski took a moment to reflect as he prepared to become Providence's 10th bishop. He was greeted by a procession that included bishops, priests, and deacons.
The event also featured music from a Boston-based group associated with Catechumenal Way, highlighting Bishop Lewandowski's connection with the Hispanic community from his previous role in Baltimore.
Upon reaching the cathedral door, silence prevailed until Metropolitan Archbishop Christopher J. Coyne welcomed him inside after he knocked several times.
The ceremony included participation from various religious figures such as Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley and Archbishop Richard G. Henning among others. Msgr. John Paul Pedrera read an apostolic mandate from Pope Francis appointing Bishop Lewandowski as head of the Providence Diocese.
Bishop Lewandowski's family attended the event, including Sister Mary Frances who expressed pride in her brother's appointment: “It’s something that we never really expected would happen.”
In his homily delivered in both English and Spanish, Bishop Lewandowski called upon Catholics to be missionary disciples going into the world like Jesus did. He highlighted themes such as zealotry and love for God while urging support for initiatives addressing hunger, life protection, immigrant rights, and vocations within the church.
Robert Lewandowski shared his pride in his son’s achievements: “He’s a hard-working successful man...I have such great respect for him.” Kathy Wagner echoed these sentiments about her nephew’s caring nature: “He is so caring...we are just so honored.”
Armand Monaco expressed optimism about Bishop Lewandowski’s future contributions: “We’re excited...he comes well-recommended.”
Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori praised Bishop Lewandowski's past work strengthening Hispanic communities in Baltimore but acknowledged mixed feelings over losing him as an auxiliary bishop there: "You will find him to be a disciple with a heart for God’s people."
This article originally appeared in Rhode Island Catholic through OSV News distribution partnership; Rick Snizek serves as executive editor at Rhode Island Catholic.
