ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS JOHN PAUL II
TO THE NEW CARDINAL ROGER MICHAEL MAHONY,
ARCHBISHOP OF LOS ANGELES

Monday, 1 July 1991

Dear Cardinal Mahony,

Dear friends,

It has become a custom for the Pope to greet the relatives and friends of the new Cardinals after the Consistory. I am happy to welcome all of you who have wished to accompany Cardinal Mahony at this special event. Through you I send prayerful best wishes to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and to the other Dioceses of California represented; not least to the Dioceses of Fresno and Stockton where the new Cardinal served as priest and Bishop.

Cardinals must have a special concern for the universal Church. As Archbishop of Los Angeles, Cardinal Mahony already ministers to a See that is an image of the universal Church, with Catholics from almost every country and every language under his care. I look forward to having him as an advisor in my ministry as successor of Peter. I recall my visit to Saint Vibiana’s Cathedral on September 15, 1987. I offer you the same message I had then: "The name of Jesus is your life and your salvation. It is your pride and joy, and the pride and joy of your families and your parishes. In his name you find strength for your weaknesses and energy for daily Christian living".

May all of you find in Jesus Christ the light and strength for a renewed Christian commitment and ever more generous service of those around you who have need of your concern and help. May Our Lady of the Angels, to whom your City is dedicated, accompany you always.

To you and your loved ones I gladly impart my Apostolic Blessing.

© Copyright 1991 - Libreria Editrice Vaticana