Chicago, IL – Archbishop Blase J. Cupich has informed the priests of the Archdiocese of Chicago of his decision regarding his choice of residence and will live in the former quarters of the late Bishop Lyne at Holy Name Cathedral. Archbishop Cupich made this decision in consultation with Cardinal George, Msgr. Dan Mayall, Pastor of Holy Name Cathedral, and several Chicago priests.
Among the considerations that Archbishop Cupich took into account when making this decision was the historical significance of the North State Parkway Residence with its symbolic meaning for the people in the Archdiocese. As the home of all the Archbishops of Chicago since it was built in 1885 by Most Rev. Patrick A. Feehan, the Residence has hosted St. John Paul II and two of his predecessors before they were elected Pope, Cardinals Pacelli (Pius XII) and Montini (Paul VI). President Franklin D. Roosevelt was also an overnight guest. The important legacy of the Residence is that it was made possible through the sacrifice and financial commitment of Archdiocesan Catholics.
Another consideration for Archbishop Cupich in making this decision was his expressed desire to reside in a place where he could be most effective in serving all the people in the Archdiocese of Chicago. When his schedule permits, the Archbishop intends to say daily Mass at the Cathedral. The location also provides easy access to his office at Archbishop Quigley Center, as well as everything Chicago has to offer in everyday life in the City.
In addition to living at the Cathedral rectory, Archbishop Cupich plans to use the North State Parkway Residence in the coming year for official Archdiocesan functions and to host guests. The Archbishop also announced that he will be establishing the Archbishop’s Residence Committee that will be tasked with studying the best uses of the facility for the benefit of the mission of the Archdiocese. After receiving the committee’s advice and the counsel of the presbyterate and other interested parties, the determination on future use will be decided.