[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 63 (Wednesday, May 8, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E734-E735]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    IN HONOR OF FATHER ROGER KAFFER

                                 ______


                           HON. JERRY WELLER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Wednesday, May 8, 1996

  Mr. WELLER. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to honor Joliet UNICO 
Citizen of the Year--Father Roger Kaffer.
  At the 40th annual banquet in Joliet, Father Kaffer was given the 
distinction of Citizen of the Year for his dedication and efforts 
toward making Providence High School a top rated educational 
institution.
  When first given the responsibility for Providence in 1969, the 
school was in financial despair and on the verge of closing. Father 
Kaffer changed that through innovation, perseverance, and hard work.
  Father Kaffer set out immediately on fundraising, student 
recruitment, and a public relations campaign on behalf of the faculty 
and

[[Page E735]]

school. The result of his efforts: an increase from 490 to 836 student 
by 1984; expansion of the Sacred Heart Gymnasium; construction of the 
theology wing, Bishop Blanchette Library, and the Christopher Cooper 
Computer Center.
  It was through his hard work, self-sacrifice, dedication, and ability 
to lead that all of these goals were realized and instead of Providence 
High School's doors closing in 1969, countless numbers of students were 
able to receive a fundamental Catholic education from one of the finest 
schools in Illinois.
  In 1985 Father Kaffer was named auxiliary bishop of Joliet by Pope 
John Paul II and his era at Providence ended. However, his wisdom and 
commitment to the school will always be part of its legacy. Truly a man 
of God, Father Kaffer serves as a role model for all of us and how we 
must all work together for the good of the community.
  Congratulations Father Kaffer on being named UNICO's Citizen of the 
Year and best wishes.

                          ____________________