For 17-year-old Rechelle Febrer, Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory’s new role within the universal Church “is so incredibly monumental.” 

“Cardinal Gregory will be the first African American cardinal, which is so incredibly monumental,” Febrer wrote in an email to the Catholic Standard. “Especially in the Archdiocese of Washington, we’re so blessed with such a diverse community of Catholics. Cardinal Gregory’s appointment will better represent and embrace our diversity.” 

Febrer, who is a Filipino American and a member of the Archdiocesan Youth Leadership Team, attends Northwest High School in Germantown, Maryland and her family attends Mother Seton Parish.

As a member of a minority community, Febrer said it meant a lot for her to see a person of color from the United States appointed to the College of Cardinals. “This isn’t to say one race is more valuable than others, but it is essential to highlight and embrace the differences and diversity we do have. It shows our faith has no boundaries.” 

Along with other members of the Archdiocesan Youth Leadership Team, Febrer had the opportunity to meet Cardinal Gregory at the 2020 Rally and Mass for Life at the Capital One Arena in January. She said she remembers the cardinal’s smile and his kindness. 

“Our team was dancing together to the music (over the loudspeaker) when Cardinal Gregory came out to greet us with a bright smile on his face,” she said. “He ensured that he shook the hand of every single member of the team, despite how many people were waiting to see him. I remember him specifically commenting on how energized we all were at seven in the morning.

“He also emphasized the important role young people have to evangelize and spread the love of Christ to those around us. He is so incredibly kind, and it was an honor to meet him,” Febrer said. 

As Cardinal Gregory continues to serve the local Church in Washington, Febrer said she hopes his example inspires young people to hold onto their faith. 

“I hope he continues to inspire the young people of this growing Church and draw people from all different backgrounds and ethnicities to the faith,” she said. “I also pray that he will continue to take a firm stand for all life-issues such as abortion, the death penalty, racism, and everything in between.”

Febrer said she wishes to congratulate Cardinal Gregory on his appointment. 

“He has made the entire Archdiocese of Washington proud,” she said. “I am confident that he will continue to be an outstanding leader of our Church.”