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.