Cardinal George makes first public appearance since falling

Chicago, Ill., Apr 12, 2007 / 07:18 am

Cardinal Francis George made his first public appearance since falling over the weekend. He was present for the dedication of Catholic Charities' St. Leo Residence for veterans and the homeless on Chicago’s South Side.

Archdiocesan officials had announced that the Cardinal would cancel most of his appointments and not attend most functions during his recovery period. But the opening of the residence was one appointment he did not want to miss.

"I know how much planning and effort went into this and how much work made this happen," Cardinal George was quoted as saying. He was using a wheelchair and crutches to get around and sat for most of the dedication, addressing the crowd from his chair. The veterans expressed their appreciation for his presence as well.

"It was good to see him. It's enlightening," Vietnam vet. Charles Copeland told Chicago’s ABC 7.

The Cardinal slipped on holy water while blessing Easter baskets at St. Ferdinand Parish on the city's Northwest Side during a Mass on Holy Saturday. He fractured his femur and, after a brief hospital stay, has been recovering at home since.

According to the local ABC affiliate, the Cardinal was optimistic about his recovery. "Now it's just a matter of time. I'll be all right,” he was quoted as saying.