By David Blake
WWL
June 12, 2009
http://www.wwl.com/New-archbishop-says-he-won-t-second-guess-church-c/4590880
[with audio]
The first native son to ever lead the New Orleans Catholic Archdiocese has been appointed by Pope Benedict XVI. 59-year-old Gregory Aymond, who was born in New Orleans and raised in Gentilly, is leaving Austin, Texas to take over for the retiring Archbishop Alfred Hughes.
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Aymond says he never dreamed this would happen and is saying hello to New Orleans and goodbye to Austin in the same day.
"I want to be among the people and work with the priests," Aymond said. "We have to make some decisions obviously."
Aymond says he knows New Orleans has been through difficult times, but says he has no strategy just yet. He says he won't be second guessing the church closings that took place under Archbishop Alfred Hughes, but will meet with those who feel hurt and angry.
"I know a lot has taken place since I left so I don't want to assume anything," Aymond said.
Listen to Archbishop Gregory Aymond:
Aymond flies to Rome to see the Pope later this month, then there is a special ceremony August 20 at St. Louis Cathedral.
Alfred Hughes is becoming an advisor with the church at age 76.
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