Abbey-Roads2

Checking who sent what.

I’m sure many of you have heard of people checking the floral arrangements at a wake to find out who sent the largest arrangement and who sent the smallest.  Somehow, even in death, the popularity contest  endures to discover who thought enough of the deceased to honor him with a bouquet, and size matters.

The florals are gorgeous.

I thought of these things as I looked through the commemorative edition of the Catholic Spirit, the diocesan newspaper - it is a tribute to Archbishop Flynn as he retires.  Indeed it is a beautiful tribute to a very good Archbishop.  And yes, the many congratulatory additions from Cardinals, Bishops, communities of religious and businesses is impressive, as well as fitting.  Similarly blogs have posted their congratulations and best wishes to the retiring Archbishop as well.  It is a lovely testimony of the good will of Catholic bloggers, some of whom have not always been his biggest fans.

Great expectations.

Certainly it is no secret the Archbishop has not always been accoladed the best bishop in the country.  Although, I honestly believe he always did the very best he could, although not a few expected him to do more.  Nevertheless his retirement naturally allows for an honest retrospective of his tenure as the Archbishop of such a vast see.  Compared to his predecessor, many would agree he did a great job.

Where’s the whip? 

When he became Archbishop after Archbishop Roach retired, many traditional/conservative Catholics were relieved that Roach was finally gone.  Not a few thought Archbishop Flynn would come in and clean house, as it were.  Instead, he proceeded with a quiet, pastoral concern towards all the faithful in his care.  He exercised his authority with deep respect for individuals as well as groups of the faithful; in parishes/faith communities, religious congregations, and so on.  (Even the dissident ones - which pretty much raised his critics ire.)

A good shepherd.

Of course the Archbishop’s most dynamic focus, indeed his greatest contribution and legacy, remains the renewal of the seminary while actively encouraging vocations to the priesthood and religious life.  He became a close father to his seminarians and priests, in whom  (I suspect) he placed great hope for them to become the necessary leaders in the ongoing renewal and reform of the entire Archdiocese.

The respect due his office.  

All in all, I believe Archbishop Flynn has been very good for the local Church;  I think he will always be known as a compassionate and caring shepherd.   I have learned from him (actually directly from him)  how to be more patient and tolerant, and most especially, to understand that the bishop, no matter who he is, deserves our respect and obedience. 

["You say good bye, I say hello..."]