[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 11903-11904]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING MONSIGNOR SEARS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 9, 2004

  Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the inspiring and 
passionate career of Monsignor Sears, of St. Joseph Parish of Michigan. 
For the past 20 years, Monsignor

[[Page 11904]]

Sears has devotedly served the community of St. Joseph and beyond.
  Since being assigned to St. Joseph Parish in 1984, Monsignor's 
contributions to our community have been remarkable. Monsignor has 
brought guidance, knowledge, and inspiration to all who had the blessed 
opportunity of meeting with or hearing one of his famous homilies. It 
is well-known that Monsignor always used story-telling and anecdotes as 
a way of teaching and inspiring his congregation. His ability to reach 
and move all those fortunate enough to cross his path has been well-
known throughout Southwest Michigan for sometime now.
  Highlights of Monsignor Sears' wonderful career include meeting with 
Mother Teresa in 1979, and speaking with Pope John Paul II during a 
visit to Rome. Locally, Monsignor was instrumental in starting the 
church's tithing in 1985--the church tithes about $100,000 a year to 
various local and national needs. Although these accomplishments are 
extraordinary, Monsignor's greatest achievements may lie in his daily 
work and prayers with the parish staff and parishioners, as well as 
implementing influential local programs over the years.
  There is no doubt that Monsignor Sears will be greatly missed as the 
pastor of St. Joseph Parish. However, knowing his passion for the 
community and devoutness to charity, Monsignor will continue his 
service to God and will continue to impact the communities of Southwest 
Michigan.

                          ____________________