[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 116 (Monday, September 10, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1614]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  THE REVEREND FATHER ROBERT E. NILON, S.J.--A LIFETIME OF DEDICATION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 10, 2001

  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to honor the 
achievements of Reverend Robert E. Nilon, S.J. of Miami as a dedicated 
Jesuit for sixty years. He has faithfully served parishioners in 
Alabama, Florida and Louisiana as a Parish Priest. Father Nilon was 
ordained to the priesthood to follow in the steps of St. Ignatius of 
Loyola on June 16, 1954.
  Reverend Nilon has accepted various Florida assignments. Several 
locations include GESU Church in Downtown Miami, St. Ann's Church in 
West Palm Beach, St. Mary's Church in Key West, and is currently 
serving the Sacred Heart Church in Tampa, Florida as Parish Priest and 
Hospital Chaplain.
  The Jesuits are not in pursuit of personal fame when accepting 
assignments as needed in the home or mission field. However, 
occasionally there are opportunities to do great things. One of 
Reverend Nilon's most memorable occasions took place in Rome in 1999 
when he celebrated Mass in the company of His Holiness, John Paul II, 
who was celebrating the 400th Anniversary of the Jesuits.
  His work is an inspiration to others in our community and will set a 
precedent for societal advancement. As a parish priest and pastor, he 
has demonstrated a strong commitment to others that proves to be an 
affirmable resource for the community.
  Father Nilon will be honored on August 12, 2001 at the GESU Church 
where a Mass of Thanksgiving will be presided by Archbishop John C. 
Favalora. We congratulate Father Nilon for his outstanding contribution 
to our community and wish him all the best in health and continued 
prosperity.

                          ____________________