His family honors Bishop

Through these 25 years, Bishop Hubbard has touched the lives of thousands of people in many different ways -þ as a priest, a leader, a mentor, a confidant, a role-model and a friend. To us, he has been all of those and more. He is a beloved brother, brother-in-law, uncle and great-uncle.

Anyone who meets Father Howard (as we call him) understands his deep sense of commitment to carrying out his ministry, leading the Albany Diocese and reaching out to those in need. His family is no different. He has helped each of us grow in faith and in God's love.

He is someone we can all rely on for encouragement, support and assistance. As busy as he is, he is always willing and happy to give more of himself. Father Howard always shows his interest and care about our lives, regardless of the many more important matters he has on his mind.

Over the years, he has given blessings at our graduations and special events, witnessed all of our marriages, baptized our children, celebrated their First Eucharists and Confirmations, and commemorated numerous wedding anniversaries.

For all of those times, we feel extremely honored and blessed. However, equally important and special to us are the personal family moments spent with Father Howard. The casual picnics in the backyard, the countless birthday parties, playing catch with the kids, throwing rolls across the dinner table, or just sitting in the living room chatting about daily and world events are the times when we truly appreciate him.

Thinking back 25 years to that spiritual and prayerful day at Siena, feelings of pride, happiness and love fill our hearts. When we contemplate the role Father Howard has played in our lives over the years and the influence he has had on us, these feelings deepen with meaning. Now, as we celebrate this momentous event with him, our pride, happiness and love for him grow ever stronger.

Congratulations, Father Howard! We love you!

Kathy, your sister, and Con, her husband;

Michael, your nephew, and Jackie, his wife;

Tom, your nephew, and Sue, his wife;

Matt, your nephew, and Jacki, his wife;

Nancy, your niece, and Bill, her husband;

Lynn, your niece, and Steve, her husband;

Carol, your niece, and Paul, her husband;

and all the kids: 16 great-nieces and great -nephews.

(04-04-02) [[In-content Ad]]