A sign at the entrance proclaiming “Way to go, Cardinal Dolan!” and photographs showcasing significant moments of his episcopal ministry greeted Cardinal Dolan as employees welcomed him to this farewell gathering, reflecting a life dedicated to the Church, the proclamation of the Gospel, and the pastoral care of the people of God in the archdiocese. 

The celebration began with remarks from Monsignor Joseph P. LaMorte, vicar general of the Archdiocese of New York, who addressed the cardinal not only as a close colleague but also as a dear friend throughout these years. In his testimony, he highlighted the pastoral closeness, fidelity to the Church, and spiritual leadership that have characterized Cardinal Dolan’s ministry. 

One of the most lighthearted moments of the reception was the presentation of a special gift: his favorite food. 

“Peanut M&Ms and creamy and crunchy Skippy peanut butter. Pope Leo’s favorite peanut butter is Peter Pan. I like Skippy. That’s why I didn’t win. Well done!” the cardinal said with a laugh upon receiving the gift. 

Later, Joseph Zwilling, Director of Communications for the Archdiocese of New York, who has worked with Cardinal Dolan for nearly 17 years during his tenure as Archbishop of New York, offered words of sincere gratitude for his service and shared that he had received a poem in his honor and felt blessed to be able to read it in his presence. Among the verses, he read: 

“Today we honor a great man and great priest who celebrates the quickest Mass in the East…” he read with a laugh. “He’s been a steadfast and good shepherd to change our lives in ways large and small. Today it’s our honor to come together and say as one: ‘Thank you, Cardinal Dolan, for a job well done.'” 

Cardinal Dolan addressed the employees of the Catholic Center with deep emotion, acknowledging the value of their work and their daily witness. “I just want everyone to know how much I love and appreciate you all. When people are kind enough to say, ‘He’s done so many good things over the years,’ I look at all of you, because I couldn’t have done it without you,” Cardinal Dolan said at the beginning of his speech. 

In a reflection with a strong spiritual message, the cardinal emphasized the significance of the date, February 2, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. 

“Today, when Simeon proclaimed Jesus as the light of the world, we are in the middle of winter, waiting for spring. And the world wonders if darkness will prevail. But we always know that Jesus Christ, the light of the world, will triumph. Life is stronger than death, light more powerful than darkness, and grace stronger than sin. And you have been a ray of sunshine for me, a light that, for 17 years, has helped me face the shadows that sometimes surround us,” he said emotionally. 

“It is very fitting that we gather on February 2. Today, on the day of the feast of the presentation of Jesus in the temple, 40 days after Christmas, when Simeon proclaimed Jesus as the light of the world. This is the halfway mark in winter. So, we’re at the 40 days, so in 40 more days it’ll be spring. And the world wanders: is darkness going to prevail?…” “We always know that Jesus, the light of the world, is going to conquer and that life is stronger than death, light a lot more potent than darkness, grace a lot more powerful than sin,” Cardinal Dolan said. He concluded, “To me, you’ve been some sunshine. To me, you let a lot of light in. To me, for 17 years, you’ve helped me battle the darkness that we see around this on occasion. And, I just love you, and I appreciate you all, very, very much.” 

He also reminded everyone that on February 6, he will officially become Archbishop Emeritus of New York, after the installation Mass of Archbishop-designate Ronald A. Hicks, who will become the 11th Archbishop of the Archdiocese of New York. With serenity and confidence in God’s providence, he assured those present that he would remain close to them: “Many of you have told me that you hope I enjoy my retirement. And I would respond that I can only hope to enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed working with all of you. I’m not going far, as you know, just over to [the Church of] Our Saviour, and you will continue to see me around,” he said. 

The staff then sang “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” to honor the outgoing archbishop, now apostolic administrator of the archdiocese. As staff members enjoyed light refreshments, Cardinal Dolan greeted and thanked the attendees individually, along with posing for pictures.