Honor Father Kelly's 40 Years

15, 2017 WHEREAS, The character and richness of religious and community life in this noble Empire State are nourished and fulfilled through the faithful concern and selfless devotion of those who commit their energies and purpose to the ministry of others; and WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to bring full recognition and just tribute to individuals who distinguish themselves and the ministry through their unremitting commitment and preeminence of service; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Father Robert Kelly upon the occasion of his 40th Anniversary to be celebrated at a party held in his honor on Sunday, October 15, 2017, at the Beeches Inn & Conference Center in Rome, New York; and WHEREAS, Father Robert "Bob" Kelly, the Pastor of the linked parishes of St. Paul in Rome, New York, and St. Joseph, in Lee Center, New York, was ordained into the priesthood in October of 1977; and WHEREAS, Prior to this position, Father Bob Kelly served in various churches in Syracuse, Endwell, DeWitt, Utica, Rome, and Lee Center, New York; and WHEREAS, Through the last four decades, Father Bob Kelly has spent a great deal of time reflecting on the rapid change in the Church's life and ministry and the evolution of the pastoral ministers due to the decline in priestly vocations; and WHEREAS, When he is not at altar or helping someone, Father Bob Kelly enjoys spending time outdoors, playing golf, hiking and gardening; he also likes to explore the beautiful earth that God has given all of us; and WHEREAS, Father Bob Kelly has brought to his ministry an overwhelming spirit of charity and compassion, acting from vision and enlightenment in conducting his administrative and spiritual duties, while always displaying the highest standards of personal and professional integrity and dedication; and WHEREAS, This distinguished man of God has always given enlightenment, guidance and wisdom to the many entrusted to his care and has administered abundantly and unstintingly to the spiritual and corporal needs of all; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when a person of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our attention it is appropriate to publicly and jubilantly proclaim and commend that individual for the edification of others; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend Father Robert Kelly upon the occasion of his 40th Anniversary, noting his unremitting and compassionate faith and his exemplary service to God, man, and his community, and extending to him heartfelt best wishes for a future of continued purposeful success and well-being; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Father Robert Kelly.