OGDEN — In his book "Precious as Silver: Imagining Your Life With God," (page 104) Bishop Niederauer uses the image of two different benches to contrast different aspects of life: a bus bench – a pragmatic place where one sits poised for action – and a park bench – a place where one goes for reflection and prayer. On either bench, Bishop Niederauer was someone I enjoyed sitting next to. Best wishes.
Deacon Mike Bulson
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SANDY, UTAH, and SAN FRANCISCO — Let me be the first to welcome Bishop Niederauer to the Archdiocese of San Francisco. While the Catholic community of Utah is certainly losing a wise and kind leader, I am selfishly delighted about the Bishop’s move. Bishop Niederauer was such a positive influence on me during my years at Juan Diego Catholic High School. And as a current student of the University of San Francisco, I feel blessed and fortunate to once again be under the wisdom and guidance of the bishop. I understand the difficulty of transitioning from Salt Lake City to San Francisco, however I have faith that the people of the Bay Area, myself included, will do everything possible to aid and welcome Bishop Niederauer.
Audrey Barron
St. Thomas More Parish - Sandy, Utah
St. Ignatius Parish - San Francisco, California
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OREM — I knew I was going to like Bishop Niederauer when he climbed up to the pulpit during his Installation Mass and admitted to having trouble balancing his mitre. My affection and admiration grew as I participated on his Diocesan Pastoral Council. In those meetings, his intelligence and spirituality were always coupled with a self-deprecating sense of humor and a lightning-fast ability to cite something appropriate – from scriptures, secular literature or the writings of a saint. As a parent, I watched him gently and non-defensively answer the questions of a daughter upset at selective intervention by Catholic bishops in political elections. As a scientist, I appreciated his willingness to discuss potential changes in the Church’s teaching on evolution and was surprised at the depth of his knowledge.
Whenever I saw him interviewed on television or read him quoted in the newspaper, I could always say with pride, "Thank you, God, for sending us this bishop." I know that the personal qualities that enabled him to serve effectively in Utah will endear him to the people of San Francisco. I wish him every blessing as he undertakes this new phase of his ministry.
Juliana Boerio-Goates
St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Orem
President, Diocesan Pastoral Council
2005-2006
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SALT LAKE CITY — From the first time we were introduced to Bishop George Niederauer, he became our friend, and just one of the family. He always knew he had a standing invitation to our humble home, whether it was a bar-b-que celebrating the Fourth of July or July 24 (a new holiday for him!), or just a family and friends get-together. We will miss his humor and great stories. He also was a good listener and always added to our conversation, whatever the topic.
You will be missed, Bishop. Congratulations and best wishes, and remember that you still have that invitation whenever you are in town.
The Mayos
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SALT LAKE CITY — In anticipating Bishop George Niederauer leaving Utah, I must admit we are losing a dear friend. However, I could only wish him the best in his new office.
I’m sure he will bring San Francisco as much dedication and love as he has given us in Utah .
We will certainly miss him.
Gloria Mecham
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BRIGHAM CITY — In 1995 I was the DRE at St. Henry’s Parish in Brigham City and our mission, Santa Ana in Tremonton, Utah. A packet of materials was sent to the parishes offering students in the religious education programs an opportunity to learn about the role of the Bishop in general and to write their words of welcome to our new Bishop specifically.
My son Brett, a 5th grader at that time, wrote to Bishop Niederauer with the not-too-unexpected "P.S. Write back soon." We were pleased (and surprised!) when Brett received a hand-written reply from our new Bishop! With all the work and obligations Bishop Niederauer had, he took the time to write to a little boy in Brigham City! At the end of his note, Bishop Niederauer asked for our prayers. May he know that he has been in our prayers and will continue to be!
What a treasure Bishop Niederauer has been to the Diocese of Salt Lake City!
Karen Roesler
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SALT LAKE CITY — For the past 11 years I have had the honor and privilege to be the executive assistant to Bishop Niederauer. I can sum up my experience with him by saying that the bishop has an abiding love for God and His Church. That love pours out in his words and example as he becomes Christ to all he meets. Peace, Bishop.
Shirley Mares
Diocesan Pastoral Center
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