After a wait of about two weeks following his Mass of Installation, Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger received his papal bull of appointment as Archbishop of Detroit. The document has since been mounted, framed, and now hangs in his office at the archdiocesan Chancery. The term “papal bull” refers to a formal document issued by the pope, often addressing matters such as doctrine, governance, and appointments to major offices. The word “bull” derives from the Latin "bulla," referring to the lead seal traditionally affixed to authenticate the document. Since the 12th century, such leaden seals have been standard for papal bulls, although on particularly solemn occasions, a gold seal was sometimes used. In more recent times, a red wax seal bearing the image of the bull is typically used, but for bishop appointments, the ancient custom of the lead seal (bulla) is still observed. A papal bull can be signed only by the pope. Because of Pope Francis’ hospitalization, he was unable to sign Archbishop Weisenburger’s bull in time for his March 18 installation Mass. The archbishop expressed his humility and gratitude that, as the pope’s health improved, he was able to sign a final batch of such decrees, among them, Archbishop Weisenburger’s appointment.

Mike Cook, a "flintknapper" from Portland, Michigan, who creates arrowheads for jewelry and hunting, crafted three arrowheads to present as a gift to Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger after seeing an arrowhead represented on the archbishop's coat of arms. In heraldry, an arrowhead pointed downward is a sign of peace. Cook created the three arrowheads to represent three stops in the archbishop's ministry: the arrowhead on the left is crafted from Banded Norwood Chert (from Michigan); the arrowhead in the middle is made of Petrified Wood (from Arizona); and the arrowhead on the right is created from Keokuk Chert (from Oklahoma).

Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger (right, top row) and other Catholic bishops from Michigan and Ohio spent time together on retreat at the Capuchin Retreat Center in Washington Township.

Detroit Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger presided over the 100th baccalaureate Mass and commencement exercises May 3 at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, helping to present 84 graduates with certificates, diplomas and degrees, which they will use to carry out the work of evangelization in dozens of parishes, schools and ministries. (Photos by John Martin | Special to Detroit Catholic)

Archbishop Weisenburger poses for a photo with Kathleen McCann during a board meeting and Mass with members of the ACTS XXIX apostolate, followed by dinner and fellowship.

Archbishop Weisenburger meets with college students as part of a visit with Detroit Catholic Campus Ministry, led by Fr. Matthew Hood, center, at Our Lady of the Rosary Church in Detroit's Midtown on April 27. The archbishop celebrated Mass with the students and enjoyed fellowship as he continues to get to know Catholics around the Archdiocese of Detroit.

As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, pilgrims from around the world, including from dioceses across the U.S., have made their way to Rome to pay their final respects and pray for the repose of the Holy Father. While Archbishop Weisenburger remains in the Archdiocese of Detroit, he shares this image of pilgrims from Tucson, Arizona, pausing for a group photo on the Spanish Steps.

For Archbishop Weisenburger, Easter Sunday morning began with a piece of Easter Babka bread made lovingly by Trudy Fisher, the mother of Detroit Auxiliary Bishop Robert J. Fisher. Truly, He is risen!

Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger celebrated the sacred Easter vigil on the night of April 19 at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit, baptizing nine adults and confirming 16 people entering into full communion with the Catholic faith. (Valaurian Waller | Detroit Catholic)

Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger continued the Triduum celebration at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit on Good Friday, leading the Liturgy of the Lord's Passion. (Photos by Valaurian Waller | Detroit Catholic)