Holy Name Cathedral commemorates Cardinal Cupich’s 50th anniversary of ordination

CHICAGO (WGN) — The Archdiocese of Chicago honored Cardinal Blase Cupich on Saturday at Holy Name Cathedral, commemorating the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.

Ordained on Aug. 16, 1975, in his native Nebraska, Cardinal Cupich’s journey has spanned from parish ministry in his home state to South Dakota, Washington and Chicago.

“This is a celebration for him, for 50 years of dedicating life to the church and for serving God’s people,” Rev. Andy Matijevic, Holy Name Cathedral associate pastor, said.

Rev. Matijevic ministers to the spiritual needs of the community while also working closely with Cardinal Cupich, especially during celebrations such as Holy Week and ordinations.

“Just seeing him be that shepherd of what a bishop is to the priest, to the people has been impactful for me,” Rev. Matijevic said.

In his remarkable five decades of ministry, Cardinal Cupich has served the church with dedication through parish ministry, Diocesan leadership and international service.

He was appointed archbishop of Chicago in 2014 and elevated to cardinal in 2016 — the first American bishop to receive that honor from Pope Francis.

He even played a role in electing the first American Pope, Pope Leo XIV, and has been a contributing voice in global church initiative.

“Cardinal Cupich has been a voice of Pope Francis in the United States and Chicago. He’s really built bridges. He’s worked with the Jewish community, the Islamic community,” Rev. Matijevic said. “He has spoke up for the migrants and for those who were disenfranchised and pushed to the margins.”

Rev. Matijevic says that as Cardinal Cupich focuses on the future, he remains committed to promoting a church that is more compassionate, merciful and inclusive for all.

“Continuing along the lines of Pope Francis’ open church that all people have sense of belonging,” Rev. Matijevic said.

Cardinal Cupich has become a respected figure in American Catholicism and will be recognized with a special tribute this September. For more details, click here.