Bishop Niederauer remembered for 'human touch'

Friday, Feb. 03, 2006

by Sister Patricia Riley, CSC

Director of Deacon Formation

Diocese of Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY — Shortly after coming to the Diocese of Salt Lake City in 1998, I attended a meeting where Bishop Niederauer was present. After I was introduced to him, he inquired about Sr. Celine Dounies since he didn’t see her at the gathering that day. Knowing people, remembering names, and genuine interest in others was always a special gift for him.

During my ministry at Juan Diego Catholic High School, some students, called "ambassadors," were responsible for hospitality and meeting and greeting guests. The bishop on many occasions knew the students’ names and would inquire about them and their parents. To this day, those students remember the bishop for his warm, human touch and interest in their lives.

This love and concern for the people of the Diocese of Salt Lake City by Bishop Niederauer will be greatly missed. We rejoice with the Archdiocese of San Francisco that they too will experience his human, kindly way of acceptance, interest, and love. He has taught us by his example. Thank you, Bishop!

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