By Catholic News Service
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (CNS) – Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre, the newly appointed archbishop of the Archdiocese of Louisville, celebrated a Mass at Holy Family Church Feb. 8, saying to the congregation that his prayer for the archdiocese – his new home – is that “we will grow in our love for God and grow in our love for each other. To do so is a response to God who is laboring in every moment to love us first,” said Archbishop Fabre.

During the liturgy, Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz – who has led the archdiocese since 2007 – welcomed Archbishop Fabre, calling the news of his appointment “joyous.”

Archbishop Kurtz said he has known Archbishop Fabre for many years. “He’s a good friend of mine and he will be a good friend of yours,” said Archbishop Kurtz.

During the homily, Archbishop Fabre shared that between leaving his Louisiana home and coming to Louisville, his heart is divided.

“It delights me to be here today to greet this new home that is mine. It’s my honor and privilege to serve you, the good people of the Archdiocese of Louisville,” he said.

“I welcome this opportunity to meet you and yet my heart is divided for my family in Thibodaux who is learning today of the news that I am not with them. So my heart is divided today and I acknowledge that.”

Archbishop Fabre is not only leaving the members of the clergy, religious and faithful in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, Louisiana, which he has led since 2013, he’s also leaving his siblings, he said.

Following the Mass, Archbishop Fabre held a news conference at the Archdiocese of Louisville Pastoral Center, where he spoke to members of the media and answered questions.
He will be installed as the fifth archbishop of Louisville March 30 at the Kentucky International Convention Center in downtown Louisville.