Honor Monsignor Kennedy's 65th

Senate Resolution No. 688 BY: Senator GRIFFO HONORING Monsignor James M. Kennedy of St. Mary's/St. Peter's Church in Rome, New York, upon the occasion of celebrating the 65th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood 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 sense 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 honor Monsignor James M. Kennedy of St. Mary's/St. Peter's Church in Rome, New York, upon the occasion of the 65th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood on February 2, 2019, and to wish him a very Happy 90th Birthday, on February 3, 2019; and WHEREAS, Monsignor James M. Kennedy began his journey as a priest on

February 2, 1955, in Syracuse, New York; in choosing this life and spiritual direction, he was following in the footsteps of three of his brothers, also ordained priests, and two of his sisters, both serving as religious sisters; and WHEREAS, For over 20 years, Monsignor James M. Kennedy served with three tours of duty in Vietnam; retiring with the esteemed title of Lieutenant Colonel; and WHEREAS, Upon moving back to Syracuse, New York, he served as Pastor of Holy Family Parish and St. Rose of Lima Parish; before retiring from St. Peter's Church in July of 2017; and WHEREAS, Monsignor James M. Kennedy 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 honor Monsignor James M. Kennedy of St. Mary's/St. Peter's Church in Rome, New York, upon the occasion of celebrating the 65th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood, 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 Monsignor James M. Kennedy.