Diocesan employees remember Bp. Banks

Diocesan employees have worked closely with Bp. Banks over the last 13 years. Here are the thoughts of some of them:

Barbara Biebel, diocesan director of Resettlement and Immigration Services:

"I have had the rare opportunity to know Bp. Banks through one of his Boston friends and this personal connection affected how I viewed him as Bishop, as The Boss, but moreover as a person.

"At Bp. Banks' installation in 1990, I served on the hospitality committee. We were waiting at the motel where hospitality suites were reserved for guests arriving by charter from Boston.

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"I struck up a conversation with one of the ladies from Boston, from Dorchester actually, whose name is Cathy Foy. Then I began to visit with others traveling with her. The five of us experienced one of those rare opportunities where people feel instantly 'connected.' They were curious about Green Bay and northeast Wisconsin. It was clear that their main concern was how their friend, whom most still referred to as 'Fr. Banks,' was going to fare here 'out West.'

"The day before the installation Wisconsin was socked by the largest winter storm I'd seen in over 20 years of living here. The streets were narrowed by snow piles and deep ruts were cut into the lanes. The large coaches made their way to St. Agnes Church and I waved goodbye to my new friends.

"After the installation I again ran into them and they peppered me with more questions. They wished they could see where the Bishop was going to live; they wished they could actually see Green Bay. An idea was hatched. I would load all four into my car and I'd give them a tour ending at St. Norbert College where the reception was to be held. The ladies were treated to an impromptu tour which we called the Historic, Religious, Architectural, and Geological Tour of Greater Green Bay.

"They in turn told me stories about how they each came to know Bp. Banks and how much he meant to each of them. I heard the human side of an administrator, the extra measures taken to comfort the afflicted and bereaved, and the kindness shown to those with needs. I valued hearing these because I too was curious about the new boss just as they were curious about where he was to be living.

"The ladies concluded that he was going to be just fine in Green Bay, that this was a warm and welcoming place that would be good to their friend. I knew too that somebody with such a cadre of devoted and caring friends was a good person who was going to do well here. I looked forward to getting to know him on my own.

"I am blessed to have a continuing relationship with Cathy in Dorchester, who continues to watch via The Compass and my reports, how Bp. Banks is doing. And she and I both wish him health and endless good days as he eases into retirement."

Dcn. Paul Grimm, director of the Diaconate and consultant in social concerns:

"I think what is most memorable is that Bp. Banks so readily adapted to the Midwest and the Green Bay Diocese. He became 'one of us' rather quickly and shared his appreciation of our lifestyle, values, and ways of doing things. He immediately made the mandatory change to being a Packer's fan, toned down his Boston accent so we could understand him, and embraced the people of the Diocese of Green Bay as his people.

"At a time when the church has gone through very serious challenges, Bp. Banks persevered and continued to serve effectively as bishop. He demonstrated the importance of placing our trust in God and continuing to do the best we can when faced with difficult times.

"Bp. Banks always took a personal interest in the employees of the diocese. He was always accessible when it was necessary to meet with him. Bishop expected individuals to do their jobs well and he always gave the support and encouragement needed to do so.

"I had the opportunity to travel on a pilgrimage to Rome with Bp. Banks in the Jubilee Year. My wife and I found Bishop to be a wonderful leader during this pilgrimage. We marveled at his energy in walking the streets of Rome and his many stories about the time he previously spent there and about the many sights we saw. It was an honor to be able to assist Bishop as deacon at a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica while in Rome.

Sr. Patrice Hughes, president of Appleton Catholic Educational System:

"Bp. Banks was chair of the board of directors for the National Catholic Education Association when I served as vice president of the association. I was always impressed with his organizational skills, allowing time for debate and then move on to building consensus. As in any organization, there are sensitive issues. He handled them very professionally and pastorally. He really blended theology with business principles.

"What I always remember is that while it was business he was also very pleasant when we move to a social setting. He's an administrator and also a wholesome individual who can enjoy life.

"He tries to make the message positive yet challenging. He really embraces the people and tradition that he found present in the diocese and didn't try to impose. He respected what preceded him and wanted to enhance it and pass it on to the next bishop. I have great affection and respect for Bp. Banks."

Rudy Pineda, consultant in Hispanic ministry:

"Bp. Banks has been an inspiration in my life in many ways. He intervened for my return to full communion with the church by getting a dispensation from Rome.

"He has been a strong supporter of Hispanic Ministry. In that endeavor, Bp. Banks, was always there when First Communion and Confirmations were to be dispensed to the migrant community at St. Joseph in Wautoma.

"I always admired his patience during picture sessions after each yearly celebration. He allowed himself time to take a picture with each First Communicant or Confirmandee and then stand with each one with their families. This always occurred in August when it was usually very warm. He did it with joy and a smile.

"Those picture sessions also occurred at Our Lady of Lourdes after the Rite of Election celebrations.

"His interest and concern for encouragement of Hispanic children to attend Catholic schools was heartwarming, not to mention how he loves the family values in Hispanic families and their work ethic.

"Through his guidance and support, worship sites for the Hispanic Community grew from four to nine in less than three years. I have tremendous respect and love for Bp. Roberto Banks. Que viva el Obispo Banks.

Diann Wimmer, diocesan director of Worship and the Liturgical Commission:

"Thank you, Bp. Banks, for your support of the Liturgical Commission. The Commission members come as representatives from the parishes and institutions of the Diocese of Green Bay.

"Bishop, your questions have challenged us. We found ourselves turning to the documents and studying carefully. Your assignments have developed our program skills. We found ourselves traveling to the regions of the diocese.

"Your support has moved us to prayer and a deeper liturgical spirituality. We found ourselves living and loving the Liturgy.

"Thank you, Bp. Banks, for calling on us and trusting us to assist in the service of the Liturgy in the Diocese of Green Bay. We look forward to your continued partnership in the future."