by Galen Ewer Administrator Occasionally, there is a person that can make everyone he or she meets feel special. Bishop George Niederauer is that rare individual who makes every person he encounters feel as if they have a personal relationship with him. The Sisters, associates, residents and patients of Christus St. Joseph Villa feel blessed we had the opportunity to have Bishop Niederauer as our shepherd. His inspirational messages have touched many lives, and his personality has warmed many hearts. He has always made us feel our ministry was held in high regard and an important part of the Diocese outreach. The Friends of St. Joseph Villa were pleased to have the Bishop assist with the presentation of the Continuum of Caring Award at the annual Hope Benefit. In 2003, the Friends were honored to acknowledge Bishop Niederauer with the Award for his role in making our community a better place for the elderly and for all people. Our appreciation for his support grew when the Western Conference of Bishops were called to meet the day of the 2004 Hope Benefit. Realizing the difficulty in returning from California in time for the Benefit, he arranged a driver to meet him at the airport soon as the flight landed. Carrying his luggage, he exited the airport to the waiting car, traveling on to Little America and barely pausing in the banquet room before stepping to the podium to participate in the presentation of the Continuum of Caring Award to Irene Sweeney. The Friends of St. Joseph Villa felt a new meaning had been given to their efforts. To see Bishop Niederauer’s commitment to the ministry of the Villa, demonstrated in his effort to ensure he was able to attend the event regardless of the obstacles, elevated the energy of the members and provided a renewed spirit to the group. The number of times Bishop Niederauer came to the Villa for special occasions, or simply to visit residents and patients, are too many to recall. The important viewpoint is his support of the aged among his flock. People who have given time, talent and financial resources to the Church years before, but who are not able to do so today, were not forgotten. He realized the need for spiritual growth does not end when the physical body begins to decline. Through his direction, the Diocese has annually assigned a priest to support the spiritual care program within the Chrustus St. Joseph Villa. The Board, Sisters and Administration realize the demand for parish priests is complex; nevertheless, the ministry to residents and patients was always given a position of high priority. Simple requests were also acknowledged. A request to celebrate Eucharist in the Villa Chapel for the Feast of St. Joseph, or other special times, was always accommodated despite his busy schedule. The need for advice or counsel received a prompt response. Through the years he became trusted advocate and advisor. The Board of Directors, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word and the associates of Christus St. Joseph Villa extend our warmest congratulations on Bishop Niederauer’s appointment as Archbishop of San Francisco. We will always remember your humility, warmth, genuine sincerity and kindness. As the Sisters look ahead to the 60th anniversary of their ministry in Salt Lake City, you will be in our prayers of celebration for your encouragement and generosity to our ministry and to bless you in your broadening ministry.
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