May 24, 2018
The episcopal ordination Mass for Bishop-designate Robert F. Christian, OP, the 18th auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of San Francisco, will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral at 11 a.m. on June 5.
There will be ample open seating for the public on a first-come basis. Doors open at 10.
Parking will be extremely tight. Valet parking will be available, but most of the cathedral lot will be reserved for bishops and those requiring assistance. Carpooling and public transportation are strongly recommended.
A public reception in Patrons’ Hall will follow the approximately two-hour Mass.
Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone will deliver the homily during the Mass, which will be attended by retired Los Angeles archbishop Cardinal Roger Mahony, Vatican nuncio to the U.S. Archbishop Christophe Pierre and at least 16 other bishops.
The ordination rite takes place after the Gospel and involves the presentation of the bishop-designate, reading of the apostolic letter, consent of the people, homily, examination of the candidate, Litany of the Saints, laying on of hands by all bishops present, prayer of consecration (during which the open Book of the Gospels is held over the ordinand’s head), anointing of the bishop’s head and presentation of the Book of the Gospels.
The rite concludes with the bishop’s investiture with ring, miter and pastoral staff, and the kiss of peace by all bishops present.
Following Communion, the new bishop will go throughout the cathedral blessing the people and then will make some remarks.
For more information on Bishop-designate Christian and the Dominican community, visit www.opwest.org/bishopchristian/.