[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 13186]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING MONSIGNOR FELIX S. DIOMARTICH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JANICE HAHN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, August 1, 2012

  Ms. HAHN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Monsignor Felix S. Diomartich, 
the oldest priest in the City of Los Angeles and the Sibenik region of 
Croatia, who is celebrating 75 years of service in the priesthood. 
Monsignor Diomartich was born on November 2, 1914, in Zlarin, Croatia. 
He began his life's journey at the parish of Vodice as the Associate 
Pastor. Soon after, he was named Secretary to Bishop Mileta. He later 
earned two doctorate degrees in theology and church law at the 
Gregorian University in Rome, Italy. Before leaving for the United 
States, he obtained the title of the lawyer of the Sacra Romana Rota.
  After arriving in the United States, Monsignor Diomartich served at 
three parishes in the Archdiocese of New York before he was invited to 
serve at St. Anthony Croatian Church in Los Angeles. Monsignor 
Diomartich served for 36 years as an administrator and as a pastor. He 
supported such organizations as the St. Ann's Altar Society for women 
and the Holy Name Society for men. He founded two new societies for 
American-born young adults called the Anthonians and the St. Anthony's 
Women's Guild. His other accomplishments at the parish include the St. 
Anthony's Annual Picnic Festival, building of a new rectory, and 
remodeling and expanding the original parish hall.
  In 1978, Pope Paul VI awarded him the title of Monsignor. The 
Croatian National Association and Foundation awarded him with its 
Lifetime Achievement award in 2008. Though he has retired from its 
administration, Monsignor Diomartich continues to reside at the St. 
Anthony Croatian Church, helping with masses and confessions. Through 
his passion of spreading the word of God, he has inspired and guided 
the residents of Los Angeles and has brought unity and pride to the 
Croatian community.
  He has truly made a difference in the lives of so many people. It has 
been a privilege to call him a friend and to celebrate this significant 
milestone.

                          ____________________