'I Want Him To Help Immigrants': Parishioners Hope New Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson Perez Unifies Catholic Church
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- People from all walks of life came to the Basilica Of Saints Peter And Paul to celebrate new Archbishop Nelson Perez. Thousands packed the cathedral.
"Happy to be here and being supportive in prayer," Barbara Henkles said.
Outside the new archbishop's installation, families welcomed him in song.
Perez was raised in New Jersey and was the leader of three churches in the area. He is bilingual, and as the region celebrates his homecoming, they're hoping he will unify the church.
"I'm happy he's Spanish and I want him to help immigrants because there are a lot of immigrants here," Ana Garcia said.
"I think he'll speak to a very diverse community here and an inclusive community," Dr. Cassandra Pistorius said.
Every bishop in the United States was invited and although there was seating assigned for dignitaries, the church wanted to make this a moment for the community.
New Philadelphia Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw also took part in the celebrations at the cathedral.
