Today, Pope Francis has given a wonderful gift to us in the Archdiocese of Omaha. I offer my thanks to the holy father, and I thank God as we welcome a new shepherd for our local church, Bishop Michael McGovern, currently serving as the Bishop of Belleville, Illinois.
Archbishop-elect McGovern has chosen as his episcopal motto the words of Jesus from the Gospel of St. John, “I call you friends.” This gives us an insight into how the archbishop desires to carry out his pastoral ministry, encouraging us to accept the invitation of Jesus to a deep and personal relationship with him. In his years as a parish pastor and bishop, the archbishop has shown that he is able to do just that.
It has been my privilege to serve as the Archbishop of Omaha for almost sixteen years. It gives me great joy to know that such a good shepherd has been sent to guide us on our pilgrim way in the coming years. Please join me in praying for Archbishop-elect McGovern as he prepares to leave the people in the Diocese of Belleville whom he has served with such dedication and to make his home here in the Archdiocese of Omaha.
Commentary
Archbishop Lucas: ‘Pope Francis has given a wonderful gift to us’
March 31, 2025
Today, Pope Francis has given a wonderful gift to us in the Archdiocese of Omaha. I offer my thanks to the holy father, and I thank God as we welcome a new shepherd for our local church, Bishop Michael McGovern, currently serving as the Bishop of Belleville, Illinois.
Archbishop-elect McGovern has chosen as his episcopal motto the words of Jesus from the Gospel of St. John, “I call you friends.” This gives us an insight into how the archbishop desires to carry out his pastoral ministry, encouraging us to accept the invitation of Jesus to a deep and personal relationship with him. In his years as a parish pastor and bishop, the archbishop has shown that he is able to do just that.
It has been my privilege to serve as the Archbishop of Omaha for almost sixteen years. It gives me great joy to know that such a good shepherd has been sent to guide us on our pilgrim way in the coming years. Please join me in praying for Archbishop-elect McGovern as he prepares to leave the people in the Diocese of Belleville whom he has served with such dedication and to make his home here in the Archdiocese of Omaha.