Dear friends of my new diocese,

Thanks so much for the extraordinarily warm welcome to West River and the Diocese of Rapid City! I am so grateful for all who offered the generous gift of their time and talent surrounding the beautiful ordination on September 23 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Rapid City. My guests were awed at the beauty of the liturgies and, equally, the beauty of the hospitality offered them by so many.

While it’s always risky to thank individuals (and risk missing someone), I am grateful first of all to Pope Francis for the extraordinary honor and gift of the appointment as Bishop of Rapid City and to his nuncio to the United States, Cardinal Christophe Pierre, who spoke a message of encouragement to me at the ordination.

Thanks also to Archbishop Bernard Hebda of St. Paul/Minneapolis, who I first met while we were in seminary together. His presence at the ordination was so meaningful and so beautiful. Thank you also to the generous staff of the Cathedral, under the leadership of Fr. Brian Christensen, for their many hours dedicated to the preparation and celebration of the ordination. Because of their efforts, I was able to enter prayerfully into the experience of the ordination. Thanks also to all those on the ordination Committee who made a loving gift of their time to prepare for the two days of celebration. One of the leaders of the committee told me ahead of time, “We want this to be the best ordination celebration of any in our country!” I believe they succeeded — and I am grateful!

Finally (but certainly not less important!), thank you for the many of the Diocese of Rapid City who attended either the Vespers prayer the night before the ordination, or the ordination itself. Your impressive numbers spoke loudly of your support and affection! The encouraging sign of your presence and faith will sustain me in the years to come as your bishop!

As a new bishop, the significance of daily Mass has gained increased meaning to me. It is clear that, each time I “do this in remembrance” of the Lord, I offer the sacrifice of the Mass for all the people of the Diocese of Rapid City. Know that this powerful intercession will be offered daily. Please continue to offer your prayers for me, that the Lord who has called me to this awesome honor will make fruitful my imperfect efforts for his perfect mercy and grace. Our Lady of Perpetual Help, pray for us!

+Bishop Scott Bullock