After recently taking some time away for some much-needed rest, my thoughts often turned back home. Even in moments of rest, I found myself looking forward to returning—not because I was restless, but because of a decision I made earlier this summer. That decision was simple yet profound: to seek new ways of connecting with our people on a deeper, more personal level.
Over the past seven years, I have been blessed to visit every parish of our Holy Metropolis. Each visit has been a joy, and I cherish the memories of celebrating the Divine Liturgy, meeting parish leaders, or joining in fellowship after services. Yet I realized this summer that visits alone are not enough. A handshake, a brief conversation, or even a meal together, while meaningful, only begin to scratch the surface of who we are as communities of faith. My decision was to go beyond visits and cultivate genuine presence—taking the time to sit with people, to hear their stories, to walk alongside them, and to live for a while in the rhythm of parish life.
As your shepherd, some of my most joyful memories have come from such moments of authentic connection: celebrating the Divine Liturgy with the faithful, playing basketball with young adults, meeting civic and religious leaders who support our ministries, or seeing the gratitude on the faces of those touched by our Church’s love. These encounters energize me, remind me of our sacred mission, and stir gratitude that God has given me another day to serve.
That is why this August I have taken up residency in Minnesota. From here, I will travel to our parishes and communities across the state. I have already spent time with our faithful in Duluth, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Mason City—perhaps you’ve seen some of the photos or posts: conversations with parish leaders, visits with local civic partners, and even a quiet hike in God’s creation. These are not just visits; they are opportunities to be present in your lives.
This blog, Met on the Move, is my way of sharing these experiences with you. Just as in previous years, I will continue to visit every parish in our Metropolis, whether in a bustling city or a rural town. What is changing now is my focus: I am intentionally dedicating more time to each community, especially those beyond the Chicagoland area, so that together we may grow in understanding, strengthen our bonds of love, and discern how Christ is calling us forward.
Our Holy Metropolis is full of potential—through its dedicated stewards, vibrant parishes, and ministries that touch lives daily. I am eager to work alongside you to deepen our relationships, to grow the Church, and to bear fruit in and for our parishes, our communities, and the world.
So if you see me in your town, please say hello. Share your story with me. Let us pray together, dream together, and walk shoulder to shoulder as we bring all people closer to Christ.
