Tuesday afternoon’s Mass of Welcome at St. Louis Cathedral was the official beginning of ministry for Coadjutor Archbishop Rev. James Checchio and one the church hopes will signify renewed faith in the church.

Rev. Checchio was appointed by the Vatican back in September to take over for archbishop Gregory Aymond who will be retiring.

Part of the mass celebration had the new archbishop showing off the announcement scroll from Pope Leo XIV.  The Archdiocese of New Orleans is stepping into this transition while continuing to rebuild trust, address clergy abuse claims, and guide its parishes through ongoing financial restructuring.

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With a mass full of celebration, family, friends, and clergy, for many lifelong Cath

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