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It is a pleasure to welcome all of you to this historic church, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (a catchy title to be sure), or as it is more commonly called, “The Baltimore Basilica” or “America’s First Cathedral.” Allow me a word about this unique place of worship, so beautiful in its architecture and so rich in its history.

We will miss our good and faithful priest. He made an indelible imprint on our lives. Father Henry, we thank you with all our hearts. May you rest in the peace of Christ.

As we commemorate these great saints, let us unite as a community of faith in asking for the grace to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus who indeed gives light to our eyes.

As we commemorate these great saints, let us unite as a community of faith in asking for the grace to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus who indeed gives light to our eyes.

“Getting there” is a life-long process but now with fixed points along the way: lector, acolyte, and God willing, diaconal ordination – and your ongoing formation as deacons, a formation that ceases only when you enter into heavenly glory.

The choice before us, then, is between God and mammon. The prudent choice is God. The imprudent choice is fleeting wealth.

On this anniversary of Inspiration Day, let us ask St. Teresa of Calcutta to smile upon us, to deepen our life of prayer, to confirm our resolution to serve Jesus in the poorest of the poor, and to practice a charity that bears witness to the Gospel and unifies the Church.

Inspire us all, dear Lord, to work closely with our new President in the years ahead.