Archbishop Cupich To Live In Holy Name Cathedral Rectory
By Chuck Sudo in News on Oct 22, 2014 7:30PM
In a refreshing display of humility, Chicago Archbishop-designate Blase Cupich informed the Archdiocese of Chicago he would reside in more modest quarters inside Holy Name Cathedral's rectory instead of the stately North State Parkway mansion that has been home to every Chicago archbishop since it was built in 1885.
Cupich made the call with outgoing Cardinal Francis George, Holy Name Cathedral pastor Monsignor Dan Mayall and several of the archdiocese's priests. Cupich will take up residence in the former quarters of the late Bishop Timothy Lyne and took into account the historic significance of the archbishop's mansion. Ultimately, Cupich said his decision to live in the rectory allows him to best serve members of the Archdiocese. The rectory also affords him ease of access to his offices at the Archbishop Quigley Center and downtown life.
In addition to housing every Chicago archbishop since it was built by Rev. Patrick A. Feehan, the mansion has hosted several dignitaries and Catholic leaders such as St. John Paul II and two of his predecessors before they were elected Pope, Cardinals Pacelli (Pius XII) and Montini (Paul VI). Cupich and the Archdiocese also want to remind Catholics the mansion, which will be used to host official events, was built mostly because of "the sacrifice and financial commitment of Archdiocesan Catholics." A committee will be formed to study the best use of the mansion for the Archdiocese's mission.