Statement from Cardinal Ambrozic
Dec 17, 2006
St. Michael’s Cathedral, Dec. 17, 2006
I wish to say a few words about the announcement that has come from the Holy Father, accepting my resignation and appointing Archbishop Thomas Collins from Edmonton as the new Archbishop of Toronto.
I have been privileged and truly blessed to have served as a bishop for 30 years and as Archbishop of Toronto for 16 years. In this time, I have come across many wonderful and faithful Catholics who have given of themselves for the love of the Church. I have always been grateful to serve in an Archdiocese so rich in diversity – it is one of our greatest gifts and as someone who came to this country from overseas, I have grown to appreciate the uniqueness of each parish, each community, each ethnic group.
On a day like today, I must give thanks to those around me, who have faithfully served the diocese and supported me in my ministry. From the Auxiliary Bishops who have assisted over the years to our many clergy who lead our parishes. May we continue to be blessed with vocations, called by God to serve the church faithfully, loyally, humbly.
To those lay people who continue to be the hands of Christ among us, I give thanks for all that you do, working tirelessly to serve in the many ministries and movements. May you always find joy in serving the Lord. To all those who have supported me during my time in the Archdiocese of Toronto, be assured that you will remain close to my heart and in my prayers.
I am most pleased to see that the Holy Father has appointed Archbishop Collins to lead the Archdiocese of Toronto. I have no doubt that he will be a responsible steward of the diocese, a faithful shepherd who will guide his flock for many years to come. His experience in western Canada will serve us well as he has provided balanced pastoral leadership to that region of the country. He is a wise man, he is a man of faith and a man who will look to the Holy Spirit for guidance and counsel.
Finally, I give thanks to God for entrusting me, your humble servant, as Archbishop of Toronto. The greatest reward one can experience in one’s life is to serve Jesus. For this, I will be eternally grateful.
Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic
December 17, 2006
***This statement was read at the 12 Noon Mass at St. Michael’s Cathedral, Dec. 17, 2006.***
Statement from Cardinal Ambrozic