Bishop Fleming receives his Miter.-Photo by Ashley Jaeger Photography
Reception of the Ring
Rings were once used by Bishops, and others in authority, to seal important letters or documents, signaling their authenticity. Bishop Warfel place a ring on Bishop Fleming’s right head, which will be worn for the rest of Bishop Fleming’s life. This ring symbolizes Bishop Fleming’s commitment and fidelity to the Church. He was charged, by Bishop Warfel, to protect and preserve the bride of God, that is, the Holy Church.
A long applause by all in attendance for Bishop Jeffery Fleming after he received his Ring, Miter, and Crozier.-Photo by Ashley Jaeger Photography
Reception of the Miter
As a sign of the “splendor of holiness” which radiates from the newly ordained Bishop (and all Bishops), Bishop Warfel placed a miter on Bishop Fleming’s head. In addition to the “splendor of holiness” the Bishop is to represent in this life, the miter also represents the crown of glory awaiting all faithful Bishops in the Kingdom to come. This liturgical headdress developed in the eleventh century and was fashioned after the papal crown in use at the time.
Bishop Fleming receives a fraternal kiss from all the bishops.-Photo by Ashley Jaeger Photography
Reception of the Crosier
The final item Bishop Fleming will receive from Bishop Warfel is his crosier. This shepherd hook shaped staff represents the Bishop’s pastoral office as the shepherd of the flock entrusted to his care, in this case the care of the people of God of the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings. An early Church writer once explained, “The end [of the crosier] is sharp to goad the slothful, the middle is straight to signify righteous rule, while the head is bent to draw in and attract souls to the way of God.”
Bishop Fleming receives fraternal kiss from Papal Nuncio, Pierre Christophe.-Photo by Ashley Jaeger Photography
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