Remembering Cardinal Timothy Manning
Honoring 35 Years Since the Passing of a Beloved Leader and Advocate for the Oppressed
On the 35th anniversary of Cardinal Timothy Manning's passing, please allow me to share his profound legacy as a tireless advocate for social justice and his commitment to serving all people, regardless of their faith. Cardinal Manning, the Archbishop of Los Angeles from 1970 to 1985, was known for his dedication to civil rights, immigrant rights, and poverty alleviation. His outreach extended beyond the Catholic community, epitomizing a spirit of inclusivity and solidarity that echoed across diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. Cardinal Manning’s Episcopal See, his seat, was at St. Vibiana Cathedral, the heart of the Archdiocese, where he championed numerous social causes. Through his work, Cardinal Manning left a tangible mark on the fight for justice and equality which have left their imprint on the City of the Angels.
Cardinal Manning was more than a revered church leader to me; he was a mentor, spiritual director, and dear friend. During his retirement at Holy Family Church, I had the privilege of serving as his Acolyte and Master of Ceremonies, which allowed me to witness firsthand his wisdom and compassion. His guidance was instrumental in shaping my spiritual journey, and his friendship provided unwavering support and inspiration. The Cardinal’s presence was a constant source of strength, and his teachings continue to influence my life and faith. His legacy of kindness and devotion remains a guiding light, reminding me of the profound impact one person can have through love and service.
The Cardinal taught that we are called to be conscious of the suffering around us and to awaken from our indifference. Cardinal Manning once said, "To this agony, like the apostles in the garden, we are largely unwitnessing and asleep. Consequently, there must be a mighty effort to awaken sympathy and compassion for this form of suffering," (remarks to The Flame of Charity, Christmas, 1951). We need actively engage with the suffering around us. This awakening of compassion and empathy was a cornerstone of Cardinal Manning's mission, guiding us to transform our sympathy into tangible actions of support and solidarity. His legacy challenges us to continue this mighty effort, fostering a world where empathy drives our actions and compassion binds our communities.
Cardinal Manning's commitment to social justice goes hand-in-hand with the work of St. Vibiana Circle. Rooted in the legacy of St. Vibiana and her Cathedral, where Cardinal Manning tirelessly worked to address social inequalities, the Circle aims to help people become grounded in empathy and justice. By focusing on issues such as just housing use, preservation, adaptive reuse and more, the St. Vibiana Circle continues the Cardinal’s work, creating a network of individuals dedicated to these causes. The Circle not only honors Cardinal Manning's remarkable contributions but also ensures that his passion for social justice remains a guiding force within the community he loved.
We invite you to join us for the next gathering of the St. Vibiana Circle on July 9 at 1pm at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels Plaza. This gathering will be a wonderful opportunity to honor Cardinal Manning's legacy of social justice and community service. Connect with like-minded individuals, engage in inspiring discussions, and participate in actions that promote compassion and equality. Your presence will help continue the important work of healing a broken city. We look forward to seeing you there!