[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 2 (Thursday, January 6, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E32-E33]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REMEMBERING MONSIGNOR McDERMOTT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 6, 2005

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of a beloved 
leader of the Chicago Archdiocese, Monsignor Ignatius D. McDermott, who 
passed away on December 31.
  Monsignor McDermott, known affectionately as Father Mac, was born on 
Chicago's South Side on July 31, 1909. He was ordained in 1936 after 
studying at Quigley Preparatory Seminary and Mundelein's St. Mary of 
the Lake Seminary.
  Demonstrating a lifelong commitment to helping those most in need, 
Monsignor McDermott often walked the streets of Chicago's poorest 
neighborhoods in order to comfort the homeless and help recovering drug 
addicts and alcoholics return to sobriety, happiness and meaningful 
lives.
  In 1946, Monsignor McDermott was appointed assistant director to the 
Chicago Archdiocese's Catholic Charities. Advancing his commitment to 
helping individuals with substance abuse problems, he founded Catholic 
Charities' Addiction Consultation and Education Services and the 
Central States Institute of Addiction.
  After nearly four decades of service, Monsignor McDermott cofounded 
the Haymarket Center in 1975. Named for its location near Haymarket 
Square in Chicago, the detoxification center offers residential and 
outpatient services. As a direct result of Monsignor McDermott's 
compassion and dedication, the center has continued to expand over the 
years and now serves over 14,006 people each year.
  Mr. Speaker, I join with the people of Chicago in recognizing the 
life of Monsignor McDermott. Together we honor his service and lifelong 
dedication to community service as well as the lasting impact he has 
had on the countless individuals he touched and whose spirits he lifted 
throughout his distinguished career. His many contributions leave an 
indelible mark on our community that will always be remembered.

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