Benedict XVI accepted Cardinal Keeler's retirement for reasons of age in July, and named Archbishop Edwin O'Brien as his successor. Archbishop O'Brien, who previously led the military ordinariate, will be formally installed Oct. 1.
Cardinal Keeler, 76, said to the press after the Mass Sunday that his retirement is in name only: "It's not a retirement. I'm still keeping active with our conference of bishops and with the international dialogue."
On stepping down as archbishop of Baltimore, he said: "It's time, it's about time. That's it. One gets older and one is not able to do as much as one did before."
Cardinal Keeler, as moderator of Catholic-Jewish relations for the U.S. episcopal conference, developed a reputation for effectively building interfaith bonds.
He is also known for his work as chairman of the Committee on Pro-life Activities.
ZE07092404 - 2007-09-24