MacNeil pays tribute to O'Byrne

Bishop Paul O'Byrne's resignation as bishop of Calgary will bring a note of sadness to many people in Calgary and indeed throughout the province and beyond. He endeared himself to thousands of people. A true-blue Albertan with deep roots in Calgary, he has given a marvellous example of a disciple of Jesus.

Bishop Paul is a man of prayer, sensitive to the needs and concerns of people, a strong advocate for social justice and for sanctity of life, a community leader who has developed an enormous ecumenical and inter-faith network of friends.

From the beginning of his episcopacy, he has given wise and strong leadership in the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Bishop Paul has been and continues to be a close personal friend who has aided me greatly over the years with his sage advice and guidance. We have collaborated well on many initiatives especially within the province. He is a person graced with many creative ideas and with a strong commitment to bring people, especially the youth, to Jesus Christ. We all owe a great debt of gratitude to this dedicated disciple and apostle of Jesus.

Bishop Frederick B. Henry is the present bishop of Thunder Bay, Ont. Previously, he was auxiliary bishop of London, Ont. Before his appointment as bishop, he served as rector of St. Peter's Seminary, London.

Bishop Henry, 55 years old, is very energetic and dynamic. He has been the spokesperson for the Ontario bishops on various issues such as relating to Catholic schools.

I welcome him and look forward to his coming in our midst.

J.N. MacNeil
Archbishop of Edmonton

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