[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 143 (Sunday, October 11, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2083-E2084]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING FATHER MATEO SHEEDY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ZOE LOFGREN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Saturday, October 10, 1998

  Ms. LOFGREN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a true humanitarian and an 
outstanding member of my hometown community of San Jose, California.
  Father Mateo Sheedy has selflessly served our community, providing 
assistance to those most in need of a helping hand. Particularly, 
Father Sheedy has championed the cause of recent immigrants. He has 
worked tirelessly to ensure that farm workers--those who feed America--
are treated with dignity and respect. In concert with churches and the 
United Farm Workers he has succeeded in ensuring that farm laborers' 
working conditions are safe, and that their wages fair. His work with 
ESL classes and citizenship courses have helped countless immigrants 
attain United States citizenship.
  Father Sheedy has been embraced by the local Mexican-American 
community and has been instrumental in solving some of the problems 
plaguing our neighborhoods. His inclusive style has brought together 
rival gangs--allowing families to live in safe, nurturing 
neighborhoods. His innovative gun return program has been very 
successful.

[[Page E2084]]

  At Sacred Heart Church where he serves as pastor, Father Sheedy has 
committed himself to improving the quality of life for every member of 
our community. He has worked with our youth--encouraging them to stay 
out of gangs and in school. Along with local universities, Father 
Sheedy has created a tutorial center and has spearheaded efforts to 
gain college scholarships for kids.
  Father Sheedy has also been a beacon of hope and faith--attending to 
the very sick and providing solace to their families. Now Father Sheedy 
is himself very ill, and our thoughts and prayers are with him.
  On October 22, 1998, Father Mateo Sheedy will be honored with the 
Heart of Jesus Award, recognizing his vast sacrifices for our 
community. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Father 
Sheedy for receiving such a special award. He is to be commended for 
his noble efforts.

                          ____________________