In a ceremony rich with tradition, Bishop William Weigand handed his shepherd's staff to his successor and the new bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sacramento, Jaime Soto.
More than 1,200 people crowded into downtown's Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament on Sunday afternoon for the special two-hour Mass.
Weigand, who served as spiritual leader of the region's 900,000 Catholics for 15 years, delivered his final homily as bishop as the smell of incense filled the air.
"It's been a great honor and privilege to be your bishop," Weigand said. He cited many changes in the diocese during his years as bishop, including the renovation of the cathedral, the opening of Cristo Rey High School, and the first diocesan synod held in the diocese in 75 years.
The normally reserved Weigand became emotional as he listed "what God has accomplished through us." Near the end of his homily, Weigand looked at Soto and said: "You are inheriting a very special flock."
When he was done, worshippers gave Weigand a standing ovation.
Weigand, 71, announced his retirement earlier this year, saying his age, health and the knowledge that he was leaving the diocese in good hands helped him make his decision to step down.
Soto, 52, who has served as coadjutor for a year, will become the ninth bishop of the Sacramento diocese.
Parishioners said Weigand will be missed.
"He's very caring and compassionate and deeply devoted," said Angelo DeStefano, a member of St. Mary's of Sacramento.
Weigand's tenure has not been without controversy. In 2004, Weigand publicly asked Gov. Gray Davis to "have the integrity" to stop receiving Holy Communion until he changed his stance on abortion. He also dealt with the clergy sexual abuse crisis. In 2005, the Sacramento diocese paid $35 million to settle 33 claims of abuse.
Weigand mentioned the challenges he faced during his years as bishop, including a health crisis. In 2005, he underwent a liver transplant.
Weigand plans to travel during his retirement but will make his home in Sacramento. "My heart longs to spend more time with the Lord," Weigand said.
After the homily, Weigand's coat of arms was replaced with Soto's, which reads: "Gozo y Esperanza," – "Joy and Hope" in Spanish. The staff was handed over, and Soto took the bishop's seat.
"It has been an honor to serve with you and be guided by you," Soto said.
Parishioners said it was important to see the changing of the bishops.
"I really wanted to be here because they've both been a blessing," said Cherry Eustaquio, a member of St. Katherine of Sienna of Vallejo.
Call the Bee's Jennifer Garza, (916) 321-1133.
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