During preparation for the celebration of the 25th anniversary of his episcopal ordination, Bishop Donald Trautman reflected on being moved by the words of a priest who spoke at a banquet following his own ordination.

“This young man quoted the Scriptures and then said, ‘I’ve only done my duty.’ That is the perspective from which I view my life as well,” Bishop Trautman said. “I’ve only done my duty.”

Statement from The Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico, bishop of Erie, upon the death of Bishop Emeritus Donald W. Trautman