TITLE: Honoring Monsignor James Bridges on his retirement from the pastorate.

SUMMARY: Honoring Monsignor James Bridges on his retirement from the pastorate.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Monsignor James Bridges of St. Stephen's Catholic Church in Midland retired from the pastorate on June 25, 2017, having dedicated an extraordinary 55 years of service to the Diocese of San Angelo; and WHEREAS, A native of Lamesa, James Bridges accepted the call to the priesthood at the age of 22, becoming the first priest ordained in the diocese on May 29, 1962; assigned to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Abilene as an assistant pastor in 1963, he assumed the pulpit of that church as pastor in 1970 and was subsequently posted to St. Mary's in Odessa and then to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, also in Odessa; in 1996, he began his work as the founding pastor of St. Stephen's Catholic Church, where he ministered with compassion and wisdom until his retirement; and WHEREAS, Known as a spiritual leader of great vision and initiative, Monsignor Bridges was instrumental in the founding of several parishes; he also worked tirelessly in behalf of the poor, establishing both Helping Hands of Midland and the West Texas Food Bank in Odessa; and WHEREAS, Throughout his career in the priesthood, Monsignor James Bridges has exemplified kindness, humility, and good humor, as well as joyful service to others, and his legacy will continue to resonate in his community of faith for many years to come; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby honor Monsignor James Bridges on his retirement from the pastorate and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued happiness and fulfillment; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Monsignor Bridges as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Craddick Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 174 was adopted by the House on August 15, 2017, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House