[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 6139]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE REVEREND MONSIGNOR FRANCIS MANIOLA ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY 
               AND THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF HIS ORDINATION

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                          HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 26, 2013

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Monsignor 
Francis Maniola on his 100th birthday and the 75th anniversary of his 
Ordination to the Priesthood. I am happy to have joined him in 
celebrating these milestones at St. Symphorosa, the Catholic parish on 
the Southwest Side of Chicago that he has served for 45 years.
   Monsignor Maniola was originally appointed Pastor of St. Symphorosa 
Parish in 1968. Responding to changes in Catholic parishes that were 
mandated by the bishops of the Second Vatican Council, Father Maniola 
sought to increase Parish involvement both spiritually and socially. He 
led the establishment of new groups and liturgical ministries at St. 
Symphorosa such as the popular Super Club, a senior citizens group with 
weekly events and activities, as well as support groups like the Widow 
and Widowers Club. I fondly remember Monsignor Maniola as the Pastor of 
the parish throughout my eight years at St. Symphorosa School.
  Although he retired in 1981 with the title ``Pastor Emeritus,'' his 
leadership and commitment to the Parish have continued to be felt in 
the community.
   At 100 years of age, Monsignor Maniola is in good health and high 
spirits. As an avid baseball fan, he enjoys watching Cubs and White Sox 
games. He also enjoys solving crossword and Sudoku puzzles. He remains 
deeply spiritual, and maintains an active role in the Parish.
   Today I express my admiration of Monsignor Maniola's devotion to St. 
Symphorosa, and honor his lifetime of achievements. I ask my colleagues 
to join me in wishing Monsignor Maniola well as he celebrates his 100th 
birthday and the 75th anniversary of his Ordination, and to thank him 
for his service.

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