Senate Resolution No. 2139

BY: Senator GRIFFO

congratulating Father Tom Durant upon the
occasion of celebrating the 50th Anniversary of his
Ordination

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 would 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 those individuals who distinguish
themselves and the ministry through their unremitting commitment and
preeminence of service; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate
Father Tom Durant upon the occasion of celebrating the 50th Anniversary
of his Ordination, to be celebrated in 2026; and

WHEREAS, Father Tom Durant, originally from Vernon Center, New York,
and now residing in Whitesboro, New York, is a passionate religious
leader with a strong commitment to supporting his congregation and
broader community; and

WHEREAS, In 1976, when Father Tom Durant was ordained, he celebrated
his first Mass in Oriskany Falls, New York; he later helped to lead St.
Paul's Catholic Church in North Utica, New York, as Pastor; and

WHEREAS, In the 1970s, Father Tom Durant's home parish, St. Agnes in
Vernon Center, closed and St. Catherine's in Vernon burned down; in the
aftermath of these losses, he learned firsthand how powerful and
essential being a member of a congregation is; and

WHEREAS, To Father Tom Durant, one of the most notable and
significant parts of the church is the tremendous spirit and love that
radiates within the community; and

WHEREAS, Father Tom Durant has always given guidance and wisdom to
the many entrusted to his care and has ministered abundantly and
unstintingly to the spiritual and corporal needs of all; and

WHEREAS, Despite retiring from his role at St. Paul's Catholic
Church, Father Tom Durant remains committed to service and religious
devotion; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his lifetime, Father Tom Durant has demonstrated
his unremitting and compassionate faith and his exemplary service to
God, man, and his community through his daily actions; 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
congratulate Father Tom Durant upon the occasion of celebrating the 50th
Anniversary of his Ordination; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Father Tom Durant.