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Archbishop Blase Cupich Installed As Leader Of Chicago's Catholics

CHICAGO (CBS) -- In a ceremony rich with ritual, yet rarely witnessed in Chicago, Blase Cupich was installed as archbishop of the archdiocese of Chicago on Tuesday afternoon at Holy Name Cathedral.

Cupich is only the ninth man named as leader of Chicago's Catholics, succeeding the retired Cardinal Francis George.

It was the first time that a Chicago cardinal had lived to see the installation of a new archbishop.

As such, Cardinal George presented the crozier to Cupich, who then took his position in the cathedra, the seat reserved for him during ceremonies at Holy Name Cathedral.

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Earlier, the Apostolic Mandate from Pope Francis was read by Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò and presented before the congregation.

George, who will turn 78 in January, is retiring as the only Chicago native son to become archbishop and then cardinal.

The centuries-old traditions of Catholicism did give way to one modern twist. Almost at the same moment the he officially became archbishop, Cupich sent out his first tweet:

Cupich used his Homily to acknowledge the past mistakes of the Catholic Church, specifically mentioning the deep scars left by the priest sex abuse scandal.

He also reached out to the younger generations, signaling changes ahead to make the Gospel relevant to modern life.

"If we're not going to inspire the next generation, who do you think is going to fill these pews?" he said.

More than a thousand were in attendance, including the governor and mayor and dozens of bishops from across the country. Cupich's extended family are in town for the installation ceremonies. His parents have passed away, but Cupich showed a sense of humor about the pomp and ceremony that will be evident this week when questioned during his arrival Thursday.

"I just wish my parents could have been here to hear particularly what was said, because my father would be proud and my mother would have believed it," he said with a laugh.

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