LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 175th Anniversary of Holy Fami-
ly Roman Catholic Church in Auburn, New York, to be celebrated December
27-28, 2008

WHEREAS, Religious institutions, and the many spiritual, social and
educational benefits they confer, play a vital role in the development
of the moral fabric of a responsible citizenry; and
WHEREAS, It is the tradition of this State and this Nation to pay
tribute to those institutions and individuals who have contributed to
the ethical and spiritual values of their communities; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body takes pleasure in commemorating the
175th Anniversary of Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in Auburn, New
York, to be celebrated on December 27-28, 2008; and
WHEREAS, The mother church of the Auburn Catholic community, Holy
Family Roman Catholic Church was formed when Reverend Francis O'Donaghue
was appointed its Pastor by Bishop John Timon; and
WHEREAS, Older than the Diocese of Rochester, Holy Family Roman
Catholic Church was dedicated on October 23, 1834, and served the region
until July 7, 1861, when Bishop John Timon dedicated the present church
building; and
WHEREAS, Holy Family Roman Catholic Church stands on the threshold of
tomorrow, prepared to meet the challenges of the coming decades while
retaining that spiritual resolve which characterizes its past; and
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to take note of
enduring religious institutions and to bring such institutions to the
attention of the people of this Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 175th Anniversary of Holy Family Roman Catholic Church
in Auburn, New York, to be observed on December 27-28, 2008, fully
confident that this commemoration reflects the belief in those values
which enhance the dignity and purpose of life; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in Auburn, New York.