The city of Buffalo issued a special proclamation Tuesday retiring Bishop Edward Kmiec.
Mayor Byron Brown appeared at the Catholic Center in downtown Buffalo where he surprised Bishop Kmiec as he attended a retirement luncheon.
"In recognizing Bishop Kmiec's eight years of faithful service as the 13th Bishop of Buffalo and to the citizens of the city of Buffalo. Congratulations Bishop on your retirement and God bless you," said Mayor Brown.
Kmiec told the mayor he was truly surprised by the proclamation.
"I always wondered when they declare the day in honor in your honor in the city, does that mean I get free parking anywhere," Kmiec joked.
"I don't think anyone would ticket your car," said Mayor Brown.
Kmiec arrived in Buffalo in 2004 to lead the Diocese's eight counties of Western New York. But in his retirment, he is not leavning the Queen City.
"I want you to know I will still be your constituent in the city. I already moved over to the Cathedral," said Kmiec.