"The Pallium" 

June 29, 2010

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

When you read this message I will have received the Pallium from His Holiness Pope Benedict the XVI. My prayers today will be for the priests and all of the faithful of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. I firmly believe that we are where God wants us to be. He uses us as instruments of His presence and glory. If we open ourselves to the Lord, I am confident that God will draw us closer to His love.

As I tour the eternal city with those joining me on the pilgrimage, I know I’ll be reminded constantly of the unique relationship that we have with Rome. Saints Peter and Paul were martyred there. The early Christians professed their faith there. The great artists of the Renaissance adorned the basilicas, churches and chapels with an expression of their faith there. It is true that all roads lead to Rome, but it is also true that all roads lead from Rome. It is both the capitol of Italy and the capitol of Christendom.

It’s fascinating to think that Peter was bishop of Rome despite the fact that Jerusalem was where Jesus suffered died and rose. However it is Rome that became the launch pad for the Church throughout the world. Many of the missionaries that carried the message of Christ were trained in the schools of Rome. As a priest studying in Rome I encountered the Church universal sharing the love of Christ with students and priests from across the globe.

So, I will walk the streets of this city enjoying the fountains and piazzas, drinking a cappuccino or sampling the gelato but most of all celebrating the introduction of Rome to those who will be experiencing the city for the first time. I have often quipped that Rome is Disney World for adults with history, culture, art and faith experienced every step of the way.

I lived in Rome for four years and believe me when I tell you, it is an unconquerable city. I am always discovering something new or old. That is why I never fail to toss my coins into the Trevi fountain so that some day I might return to Rome.

It is a great gift to be traveling with over a hundred family, priests, friends, and lay faithful of the diocese. I hope that our pilgrims who experience Rome will have the same affection for the city that I have. I know that they will enjoy the pastas and the wines and perhaps they’ll even pick up a few Italian phrases. And we will certainly have experiences to share.

When I return I’ll be wearing the Pallium, a simple wool overlay worn with Mass vestments. It doesn’t look like much, but it represents my responsibility for the Archdiocese and dioceses of Wisconsin. It is a symbol of our unity with the Pope and the See of Peter and a reminder that because of Christ, we are all called to Love One Another.

See you at Mass!

Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee

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