Church Statements
Address of Archbishop Christophe Pierre to the USCCB General Assembly (2017)
Address of Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the USCCB General Assembly, Indianapolis, Indiana, June 14, 2017
"I am very happy to be with you here in Indianapolis. In a special way, I wish to thank Cardinal DiNardo, the President of the Episcopal Conference, as well as Monsignor Bransfield and the Staff of the USCCB, for the opportunity to address you. I assure you of the Holy Father's closeness, prayers, and gratitude for your ministry as you engage in the New Evangelization.
One year ago, I began my mission in the United States. It has been an eventful year, filled with many blessings, affording me the opportunity not only to meet you but also your people as I have traveled from Washington to California to Louisiana to Alaska! I continue to be impressed by the faith of the people and their dedication to their parishes and local churches, despite the many challenges they face in living the faith in an increasingly secular culture that values efficiency and productivity over spiritual values. With each journey, I learn more about the geographical, social and cultural context of the different states, dioceses, and peoples that constitute this country — a context in which the Gospel must be announced joyfully."