Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today in support of H.R. 3357, legislation awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to John Cardinal O'Connor. I want to thank my good friend, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Fossella) for introducing this legislation and for the great work that he has done in this body in bringing forward this legislation so that Congress may bestow its highest honor upon one of the most respected spiritual leaders in my great State of New York and our Nation and in the world. Cardinal O'Connor celebrated his 80th birthday earlier this year amid standing ovations throughout. And I am pleased that we offer today our own ovation here on the floor in the form of the Congressional Gold Medal. Mr. Speaker, his 54 years of devoted service as an ordained priest in the Catholic Church has shown him to be a cardinal of the people. He is a tireless advocate of charitable giving; reaching out to the homeless, the elderly, the sick and anyone needing a helping hand. His teaching and deeds on behalf of those less fortunate are truly an inspiration.”