[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 177 (Thursday, November 9, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2147]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO BISHOP JOSEPH A. FRANCIS

                                 ______


                          HON. DONALD M. PAYNE

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 9, 1995

  Mr. PAYNE of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
a man that I deeply respect and admire for his devotion to God, for his 
grace and dignity, as well as for his years of valued service to the 
people of this community. Bishop Joseph A. Francis, who has announced 
his retirement from the active ministry, has been an extremely active 
member of the Catholic Church since he was ordained in the Society of 
the Divine Word in October 1950.
  Bishop Francis dedicated himself to humanity. He has been generous in 
giving his time to people, he has a way of making everyone in his 
presence feel special. He has served as both a teacher and 
administrator in secondary schools and colleges throughout the country. 
He has received numerous honorary degrees and served on the boards of 
trustees of many fine institutions of higher learning. His resume and 
list of achievements are as impressive as his bearing and his humility. 
As a result of his work in the community, Bishop Francis has been the 
recipient of numerous prestigious awards and commendations.
  Bishop Francis has been and continues to be an advocate for the least 
fortunate members of our society. During his tenure in the archdiocese 
of Newark he touched many lives including mine and he has made an 
impression that we will never forget.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that all of my colleagues join me in paying 
tribute to Bishop Joseph A. Francis, a wise man and good man who 
achieved great things.

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