St. Ann’s welcomes Honduran cardinal

Parishioners of historic St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Tubac and its mission, the Assumption Chapel of Amado, welcomed visiting Honduras Cardinal Oscar Andres Rodriguez Maradiaga Sunday.

Cardinal Rodriguez was the guest of Diocese of Tucson Bishop Gerald Kicanas.

The two religious leaders concelebrated Masses at both churches with Cardinal Rodriguez delivering the sermon.

The Amado service, which celebrated the Feast of the Epiphany, featured children portraying the three Magi, modern dance, and acoustic arrangements of seasonal music.

Cardinal Rodriguez’s homily focused on the unique God-given gifts possessed by all individuals.

Fluidly alternating from perfect English to “la lengua espanola,” the cardinal spoke of the deep fullfillment which can be realized by sharing of oneself in all areas of humanity, whether in the family or in the community.

The 66-year-old cardinal, who speaks seven languages, is based in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, and is one of the most prominent Catholic leaders in Latin America.

An internationally recognized champion of human rights, Cardinal Rodriguez is widely viewed as a likely future candidate for the papacy.