Papal Mass Named One of the Garden’s ‘Defining Moments’

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In his unforgettably thunderous voice, Cardinal Dolan sang, “Thanks for the memories!” inside Madison Square Garden before the unveiling of the arena’s 21st “Defining Moment.”

The choice of song was perfect, although the singing could have been left to the professional at the Sept. 26 event—Harry Connick Jr.

“As a Catholic, to be asked to sing at the Papal Mass was one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Connick said.

The New Orleans native performed “How Great Thou Art” during the concert before the Papal Mass with Pope Francis at Madison Square Garden on Sept. 25, 2015.

“It was probably the high point of my career in terms of doing things that are related to the Catholic Church,” Connick said. “What a great honor it is to be here today and to have contributed just a tiny part of this moment that will live forever.”

Reflecting on the Papal Mass, which Pope Francis celebrated before 20,000 people in The World’s Most Famous Arena, the cardinal said, “I’m so glad you call it a defining moment. As I get around the archdiocese, still people are sharing with me how the visit of the Holy Father was a defining moment for them.”

Cardinal Dolan and Connick participated in the unveiling of an exhibit dedicated to the historic Mass. The display, located on the arena’s sixth level, includes a gold ciborium, the official liturgy book and Mass program, tickets, and newspaper and magazine clippings.

Also present were David O’Conner, president of The Madison Square Garden Company, and Joel Fisher, executive vice president, Marquee Events, The Madison Square Garden Company. Representatives of the archdiocese who helped to organize and plan the Papal Mass were on hand as well.

Other “defining moments” from Garden history include “The Fight of the Century,” Muhammad Ali’s heavyweight title bout against Joe Frazier on March 8, 1971; “The Concert for New York City,” which raised funds for the families of 9/11 victims and honored first responders, Oct. 20, 2001; and, of course, the youth rally that St. John Paul II led on Oct. 3, 1979.