From the Archbishop

Last week I was reading from a sermon by Saint Augustine entitled “On Pastors.” It is addressed to those who serve as pastors in the Church. In the portion I was reading, Saint Augustine was criticizing pastors who promise that the followers of Christ will enjoy earthly ease.

As you may imagine, the Cathedral rectory where I live along with two other priests, Msgr. William Skoneki, the Vicar General, and Fr. Victor Ingalls, the Vocations Director is usually a quiet and sedate home. There is certainly activity during office hours and when there are meetings, but for the most part it is not a noisy place.

There are times when we have the opportunity to change someone’s life. Perhaps this is the time for some people reading this article.

As we prepare to begin a new academic year in our Catholic schools, all of us are aware that COVID-19 remains a serious health issue. I wish to thank all who serve in our Catholic schools for their outstanding efforts last year in providing both excellent education and safety for our students. I have great confidence in them again this year.

Father James E. Coyle died on August 11, 1921, in Birmingham, Alabama. It is more correct to say that he was murdered. It is perhaps even more correct to say that he was martyred.