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Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt

The principal church of the Diocese of Greensburg, Blessed Sacrament Cathedral derives its name from the Greek noun, cathedra, which translates as "seat" and refers to the bishop's chair located inside the church.  The significance of the throne dates back to ancient times, when the chair was seen as the sign of authority to teach and when bishops preached while seated.

On March 4, 2004, Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt was ordained and installed in the Cathedral as the fourth bishop of the Diocese of Greensburg.  Upon his episcopal ordination, Bishop Brandt chose "Ignis Caritatis" as his motto, which is translated "With the Fire of Love."  The symbolism of fire is prevalent throughout Scriptures: in the Old Testament when God was present to Moses and the chosen people in the burning bush, in John the Baptist proclaiming that Jesus, the Messiah, would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire, and in Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles in tongues of fire.  In addition, the use of fire also recalls the martyrdom of St. Lawrence (d. 258), who was roasted alive on a grill, and alludes to the name "Brandt" from the German word "brand," which means fire.

For a complete description of Bishop Brandt's coat of arms, please click here.

During his time as Bishop of Greensburg, Bishop Brandt has issued two pastoral letters.  Please click here to read "Integrity and the Political Arena" and here to read "The Transmission of Faith in the Present Culture."