The Rite of Installation of Bishop John C. Nienstedt

New Ulm - On Monday, August 6, 2001 the Diocese of New Ulm and guests from around the world, gathered for the celebration of the installation ceremony officially transferring the authority of the diocese to it’s third Bishop, the Most Reverend John C. Nienstedt. The ceremonial procession of Dignitary and Clergy took nearly 20 minutes of the 2 1/2 hour service. Leaders from the civic, Ecumenical, and Religious communities, priests from the dioceses of Detroit and New Ulm, pastoral administrators, and deacons were proceeded by candle and festive ribbon pole

bearers entering the church from all isles. Over 40 bishops were present and 4 cardinals.

Bishop Nienstedt was the last to enter, symbolically knocking on the huge wooden door of the church, asking to be received by the diocesan community.

During the installation ceremony Archbishop Montalvo read the papal mandata that officially transferred the authority from Father John Gerald Berger, Diocesan Administrator, to the new bishop.

After Bishop Nienstedt is seated in the "cathedra," the assembly rose with applause and singing.

Representatives of the diocese and other Christian churches and community leaders came forward to greet Bishop, welcome him, offering their respect, cooperation, and support of his ministry.

Following the installation, Liturgy of the Word and Eucharist was celebrated bilingually. Bishop Nienstedt delivered his homily in both English and Spanish, delivering a message of prayer and fasting.

He asked for the people of the diocese to join him in observing a year of prayer devoted to the call for priestly, religious, diaconal, and missionary vocations. And, in an effort to strengthen this prayer he also asked that fasting from meat on Fridays be undertaken specifically for vocations.

Bishop Nienstedt also pledged his support for the present economic crisis facing farm families in the diocese.