As I begin this year’s road toward our May bishop election, I am starting to note my “lasts.” Today a gathering of Houston-area judicatory leaders left me a bit nostalgic. This was. It my last, but my penultimate gathering of this group. it was, however, Cardinal DiNardo’s last meeting, as his successor will be installed next month on March 25.
Archbishop Daniel DiNardo was at my installation in 2007. Two months later he was elevated to the College of Cardinals. He was born a Buckeye (Steubenville, Ohio) like me (Columbus, Ohio). He has been a gracious leader of the faith community in Houston, respectful to all.
Cardinal DiNardo was granted Papal permission to retire this year. His successor, Joe Vásquez, will be installed on March 25 at the cathedral.
Lynn Hargrove is the General Presbyter of the Presbytery of the New Covenant.
Assistant Bishop Hector Monterroso is from the Episcopal Diocese of Texas. He is a Guatemalan who served as Bishop of Costa Rica for 14 years. Bishop Andy Doyle was unable to be with us.
The Rev. John Ogletree is a Baptist pastor who serves First Metropolitan Church of Houston.
Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro served the Archdicoese of Galveston Houston.
Also absent were Rabbi David Lyon of Congregation Beth Israel, Houston and United Methodist Bishop Cynthia Fiero Harvey, pictured below in earlier photos.
Below are Fr. Mark Hebert, Elizabeth Valdéz (TMO) and Fr. Joseph White. Father Hebert is the outgoing priest assistant for Cardinal DiNardo. Father White is the incoming priest assistant.
These friends have not always agreed with one another, but have stood shoulder-to-shoulder on many issues of justice and compassion facing Houston. These are some of the relationships I have appreciated and will certainly miss.
