Every June 29th is the Feast of Saints Peter
and Paul. They are known as the “Princes of
The Apostles”. For us in the Archdiocese of
Hartford, this day takes on a special significance.
On June 29th in Rome, our new Archbishop,
Christopher Coyne receives the Pallium
from Pope Francis. The Pallium is only
worn by Archbishops since most Archbishops
are Metropolitans. Archbishop Coyne is the
Metropolitan of the Diocese of Providence,
Rhode Island, Norwich, CT., and Bridgeport,
CT. He has jurisdiction overall these regions,
even though they have their own Bishop.

The Pallium is made from unblemished
lamb’s wool (unblemished, meaning the lamb
is a virgin). On the Feast of St. Agnes (Feb.5th)
nuns begin the process of weaving palliums
for the new Archbishops of the world. This is a
custom in the church since the 300’s. We could
then say that it is “ancient tradition.” The palliums
are given to the new Archbishops
(Metropolitans) on the Feast of Sts. Peter and
Paul, June 29th.

The Pallium is worn over the chasuble. It
rests on the shoulders with a short piece that
falls in the front and the back. It has five crosses
signifying the wounds of Jesus…two hands,
the feet, the head and the side. Sometimes
there are three nails attached to the Pallium.
When it is worn by the Archbishop, it is quite
visible!

To commemorate this occasion, Archbishop
Coyne has extended the Feast of Sts. Peter and
Paul for the entire weekend of June 29-30. All
weekend Masses will be celebrated in honor
of Sts. Peter and Paul. The Priest and Deacon
will be vested in Red, since Peter and
Paul were martyrs.

In Rome, Pope Francis will give the Pallium
to Archbishop Coyne. He will not invest
him. Archbishop Coyne will be invested with
the Pallium at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in
Hartford on Monday, October 14, 2024. All the
Faithful of the Archdiocese are invited to attend.
More information on this to follow!
In the meantime: Congratulations,
Archbishop Christopher Coyne!!