Editorial

Bishop Robert C. Morlino has already impressed people in the Diocese of Madison with his depth of faith, intelligence, and warmth. The vesper service and installation Mass revealed our new bishop's reverence, love of church tradition, and ability to be sublime one minute and down-to-earth the next.

When asked how he prepared for the installation festivities, he remarked, "Of course, I spent time in prayer and reflection. And for lunch I ate two brats!"

We will never forget Bishop Morlino's version of BLT: "Badger them lovingly with the truth." That's the mission of of the church. "The truth will never disappoint. It's grace, mercy, and peace," he said, combining his own motto with that of his predecessor, Bishop William H. Bullock.

In a list of many people he thanked, Bishop Morlino especially singled out priests. "A bishop without priests is like a man without arms," he said.

As we welcome Bishop Morlino, I encourage people of the diocese to pray for him and all priests. The prayer below was published by Bishop Victor Balke in Our Northland Diocese, newspaper of the Diocese of Crookston, Minn. Clip it out and offer this prayer each day for our bishops and priests. They need our prayerful support.

Mary C. Uhler, editor

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To our friends in the Diocese of Madison:

Speaking for many in the Diocese of Helena, it is with mixed emotions that we see our beloved Most Reverend Robert C. Morlino leave to become your new bishop.

We are conflicted because we will dearly miss this man but, at the same time, we understand that divine providence is such that he needs to be with you at this point in time. In his four years with us, we have truly been blessed to be led and taught by a man who speaks the truth about our Catholic faith unwaveringly.

Being in the 40-something crowd who was trained in my faith during the 60s and 70s in the Vatican II aftermath, it seems I was embracing "sugar coated" cafeteria-based Catholicism for most of my life.

I was truly awakened by Bishop Morlino and his wonderful ability to teach his rock-solid understanding of Catholic teachings and the Holy Scripture and routinely voice his support of our Holy Father and the Holy Catholic Church. My family and I have been forever changed - the new evangelization the Pope speaks about, if you will.

Bishop Morlino taught us the truth. Many of you may not like it. Many of you may not embrace it. Many of you (like me) may not have ever known what it is. But don't expect your new bishop to back down from telling it - again and again. My suggestion - embrace what he says. You too, can be changed forever by allowing Jesus to change you.

Myles Grotbo, Helena, Mont.