‘What a Priest’

I just read John Woods’ wonderful tribute to Msgr. James Dorney (Editor’s Report, Nov. 12). Accolades and tributes could never ever really describe how wonderful a priest and man he was. Here’s hoping that when he arrived at the gates of heaven there was good seating up front. Certainly all the good cheer, spectacular witticisms and wonderful kindness reflect his upbringing on Bailey Avenue in the Bronx. I don’t think he ever tooted his own horn once in his entire life.

Of course, on September 11th, 2001 he performed an impromptu ceremony on behalf of all who had just perished in the nightmarish World Trade Center collapse. At the conclusion of the ceremony, he directed all of us in attendance to say the Rosary as we climbed the outside steps of the church and to carry a candle and face the Trade Center. Msgr. Dorney was so moved that he said, “I am too weakened and too overcome with emotion to join you.” I think he said, “I just want to go to my room and collect my thoughts.” The raw emotion was something I will never ever forget all the days of my life. What a priest. God bless you.

Stephen Hyland

Staten Island