Bishop leaves city a better place; he enriched our lives

Intermountain Catholic

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Salt Lake City Mayor Ross ?Rocky? Anderson.

Ross C. "Rocky" Anderson

Mayor, Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake City has been graced in remarkable ways with the leadership of Bishop George Niederauer. He has been a leader, a voice of reason, and an inspiration not only for the Salt Lake City Catholic Diocese, but for the entire community.

Our paths crossed in numerous ways over the past several years. On many occasions, such as Olympic-related events, interdenominational services, and charity events, we shared the podium. Bishop Niederauer’s presentations consistently reflected his great humanity, his intellectual depth, and his wonderful wit.

I always looked forward to hearing, in his wonderful resonant voice, the wisdom of Bishop Niederauer. It was always such a pleasure to hear what he had to say, presented in a dignified, yet warm and humorous, fashion. He never just filled in the time. He always had something vital – something profound – to say, from which we listeners could benefit.

Bishop Niederauer was at the top of our list for membership when Jon Huntsman, Sr. and I convened the Alliance for Unity. The Alliance is a group of religious, business, and civic leaders who meet to discuss how we can create greater unity in our community through a better appreciation of the differences among residents. Bishop Niederauer was an active member of the Alliance, courageously advocating measures that will promote candid dialogue about religious divisions in our community and the means of bridging them. His reason and his dignity always carried great weight among members of the Alliance as we struggled with how best to meet the mission of the Alliance to "foster a more unified community in which all Utahns are included and valued, regardless of affiliations or differences." I will miss the uplifting perspective and courage Bishop Niederauer demonstrated during the course of his work with the Alliance for Unity.

Bishop Niederauer’s intelligence, articulateness, and integrity were an enormous resource for our community, and for many of us on a more personal level. When a particularly complex ethical issue was presented to me, I could call Bishop Niederauer and discuss it with him, frankly and with the confidence he would be able to provide helpful insights. On one occasion, we met for breakfast and had a wide ranging discussion about some matters that had been of significant concern for me, both personally and professionally. He was generous with his time, and with his valuable perspective and advice.

I will deeply miss Bishop Niederauer. He has been a tremendous friend, one upon whom I could always count. This community will miss him in the same way. He has been a great ally, never missing an opportunity to help bring about a better quality of life for everyone. The people of San Francisco are most fortunate to welcome him into their midst. With gratitude, I wish Bishop Niederauer continued satisfaction in knowing that he is making our world a better place every day.