[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 24079]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




  IN HONOR OF THE RESILIENCE, HOPE AND FAITH OF ST. STANISLAUS PARISH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 17, 2004

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, we rise today in honor of Pastor Michael 
Surufka, Father George Kusy, Father Joachim Studwell, and every member 
of St. Stanislaus parish community, upon the dedication of the 
restoration of the parish rectory. We also rise in honor of the legacy 
and memories of Pastor William Gulas, whose life, though tragically 
taken from us two years ago, continues to rise in our hearts, memories, 
and in the Slavic Village neighborhood that he so loved.
  The restoration of the St. Stanislaus Parish symbolizes the rebirth 
of faith and hope that was shattered when Father Gulas' life was felled 
by senseless violence. As the rectory is resurrected, so is the life of 
Father Gulas. His gentle guidance and support that he freely and openly 
offered to every parishioner continues to renew faith and inspiration 
along East 65th Street and far beyond. His willingness to learn the 
Polish language to better serve this parish community is testament to 
the unwavering dedication and love he shared with the people of Slavic 
Village.
  Father Gulas led this parish with kindness, compassion and an undying 
faith in the goodness of all people. His life-long ministry was framed 
by his service to others and by his unshakeable faith and strong sense 
of spirituality. His graceful liturgy, outlined with poignancy and wit, 
captured the minds and hearts of his parishioners. His legacy of 
renewing the hearts and souls of all those who knew him, extended to 
the bricks and mortar of St. Stanislaus Church. Today, as we celebrate 
the renewal of the parish rectory, we pause in remembrance and honor of 
the man, Father Gulas, who led the colossal effort to renovate the 
historic and inspirational St. Stanislaus Church.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join us in honor and recognition 
of the dedication of the newly restored parish rectory of St. 
Stanislaus Parish. This restoration reflects the unity, strength and 
faith of this community to rise above the traumatic loss of their 
beloved Pastor, Father William Gulas. This celebration also reflects 
the commitment of Pastor Michael Surufka, Father George Kusy, Father 
Joachim Studwell, and every parishioner committed to carrying on the 
vital work of Father William Gulas. The Peace Garden, planned and 
cultivated by parishioners, serves as a living reminder that hope will 
rise from the ashes, and that Father Gulas' light continues to offer 
guidance, inspiration and hope throughout the St. Stanislaus community, 
today, and for all time.

                          ____________________