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ISSUE # 72
May 2003
from VINCENT POISELLA, editor: Behind the scenes at the Marists All power
plant, David Kammer, Rich Foy, Gus Nolan are at the controls. In addition, our
web site technician, Jack Noone, who represents in superb manner the Founder's
wish that we "do good quietly," has been at work at the Marists All web site. He
has enhanced Rich Foy's creation and given it a new look. It is more convenient
and interesting if you would like to navigate around the site.
On the home page, the ticker tape is frequently updated to bring you the latest
news concerning the Marist family. Greater detail concerning the ticker tape news
item can be found on the News Bulletin web page. The History of Marists All web
page has been redesigned by having moving applet text superimposed over the
image of St. Marcellin Champagnat. The Obituaries web section has been
revamped so as to combine two new features: a revolving personal introduction to
each of the deceased compiled with an alphabetical listing to make it easier to
reach each linked eulogy. Why not take a moment to visit each of these new
features.
Jack is also in the process of copying all the past issues of Marists All newsletters
on to the Archives section. A new navigational bar is planned in the near future to
make it even easier to move about the Marists All web site. Enjoy!
Ninth Marist Family Weekend
Reunion -- Prayer -- Discussion
July 10,11,12,13, 2003
Marist College A Loving Heart: "Do whatever He tells you!"
The Ninth Marist Family Weekend continues to explore the meaning of
Marist spirituality as expressed in the lives of the Marist Brothers, former Marist
Brothers and their spouses, and indeed, the whole Marist family. Presenters will
focus on the personal and communal responses to Mary's words.
Highlights
Reunion of Marist Brothers, former Marist Brothers, wives, friends
Liturgy, Sharing, Visit to Esopus cemetery
Special Guests/Presenters: Br. Luke Driscoll, Br. John Malich, Rev. Owen
Lafferty, Gus Nolan, Don Mulcare, Rev. Pat Primeau, Rev. Ed Keel, Br.
Rene Roy, David Kammer
The Marist College Heritage Project: Brian Desilets, Richard Foy, Jack
Noone
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You are welcome to participate in the Marist Family Weekend. Send
registration request to Br. Charles Marcellin, Archbishop Molloy High School,
83-53 Manton Street, Briarwood, New York 11435-1697. Cost of the whole
weekend -- including nine meals, lodging for three nights, snacks, linens, and
insurance -- totals $255 for an individual, $375 per couple. Cost will be pro-rated
for those who are < able to join us for only part of the weekend. Please come,
even if only for a day or a few hours. Those who have other < accommodations
may request Òmeals only.Ó Let us know your plans so that we have enough food
for you! Contact Br. Charles Marcellin (718-441-2100; cmarcellin@molloyhs.org)
or Vince Poisella (973-398-5477;
vtpoisella@yahoo.com
.)
GMC PICNIC Once again we look forward to seeing many of you at the
annual Greater Marist Community picnic to be held at Mt. St. Michael in the
Bronx. The gathering will take place on Saturday, September 13th, noon to five
pm. Come with spouse and children or come alone. Bring your own beverage and
a potluck dish for a shared meal. All Brothers are most welcome to join in.
Thanks to the director and to the community of the Mount for welcoming us.
from TOM FAHEY ('58): Thanks for your continuing message of
reaching out to all of us who had the privilege of being part of the Marist
Community whether large or (as in my case) very small; but I carry in memory
forever the courage, character and charisma of those wonderful Marists I lived
with for two and a half years at the prep in Esopus from September, 1954, to
January, 1957. (One the Boulevard, New Rochelle, NY 10801; 914-576-3335;
faheytj@aol.com
)
from JOSEPH (Eugene Michael) HORAN ('50): When I read the Marists
All issues, I recall with fond memories those moments in our young life where we
shared so much with our classmates. Then, reading about the recent deaths of
those who were close to us, I think of the impact they had on us. These are
moments to be remembered always. My wife Dolores and I often talk about the
many former and present Brothers we met over the years. She still recalls the class
reunions we attended. She has always felt a part of this small group. As for us, we
have daughters that have given us many wonderful experiences, as well as
grandchildren. My daughter Joelle moved from Boston to Ft. Lauderdale. This
gives us a four hour drive to visit her and our granddaughter, since we live north
of Tampa. I just completed my elected turn as the homeowners association
chairman. It was a long two years, but we were able to establish our goals. Now I
can just relax and enjoy retirement. Perhaps we could have a class reunion in
2005. I heard from Br. Stephen Urban since my last letter. It brought back so
many excellent memories. Until our next class meeting, I think of each of my
Brothers. (10426 Collar Dr.; San Antonio, FL 33576; 352-588-0179;
jahoran@aol.com
)
from BILL MAHER ('54): Great job on the web site! A little anecdote for
Richard Foy. I don't know if you were with the four of us who were selected to
carry bricks to the top of the scaffold above the stage while the gym was being
built in Esopus in 1951. Four of us who were slight and small were given buckets
with four bricks to walk across the scaffolding to give to the mason who was
working. Br. Francis, in his most serious of faces and voice (none of us knew who
this man was at the time ), said: "...it would be better for you to jump down onto
the slate below than to tell me you chipped one of the bricks that have already
been set!" It was bad enough being up at that height, but then to have to be told
that really set us on edge. It wasn't until years later having the opportunity to live
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with him in Poughkeepsie that I was personally able to know the caring and soft
side of Br. Francis Xavier. (63 Eddy St., Norton, MA 02766; 508-285-4905;
mahere41@attbi.com
)
from CHARLES W. KENNEDY ('58): A tribute to Dan Kirk: He was
known at St. Ann's Academy. He was known at Marist College. And it was there
that he helped me. A cry in the wilderness, and he answered me. General
psychology...adolescent psychology...David Ausubel...satellizing, non-satellizing,
and exploratory children... and growth.... In memoriam, December 5, 1998. (43-34
42nd Street; Sunnyside, NY 11104 -2811; 718-786-6191)
from BILL DESCHENE ('53): (This story is dedicated to the eight
Brothers of my class who are celebrating their 50th anniversary of vowed Marist
life. It is a reliving of the hospitality given to groups of students and myself on the
occasions of our annual Easter bike hike from St. Helena's to Esopus and back via
stops at Cold Spring and Haverstraw during the late sixties and early seventies.)
The last stop on this week-long trek was at the Marist community in Haverstraw.
The Brothers who lived there taught in the local grade school. They were, to my
way of thinking back then, 'the over-the -hill crowd.' All had completed illustrious
careers as teachers: Marc and Rock; skilled tailor Lucian; gourmet cook, under
difficult circumstances, Herbie Hoover; and Camp Marist's first director, Big Ben.
Now, in advanced years, they showed up at school at 7: 30 and left at 2:30 after
putting in a full day in the classroom. Then came Office and evening prayer at
3:00 pm, followed by supper at four. After dishes, most were off to their evening
activities, except for Herbie, who stayed and got things set up for the next day. I
was used to a grade school staff being like the one I had joined with fellow
rookies, Francis Regis, Joe Strang, and John Dunne at Rego Park in the late fifties.
Our guides then were Alphonse Louis (low thirties), Kevin Justin, and Bernie
Nolan, both under thirty -- although Br. Bernard tried to pass himself off as very
experienced. (By comparison, the Haverstraw group was like a car whose
odometer had been reset.) Upon arriving at the Brother's residence, Big Ben
would take us to the Church and let us into the basement where we stowed our
bikes and set down our sleeping bags. Then it was up to the house for supper. The
bikers, ranging in number from seven to thirteen, were treated to steak, real
French fries (peeled, cut, and patted dry), and a kid-friendly vegetable, like frozen
corn or green beans. Dessert was Herbie's fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies.
The Brothers were very animated, as grandfathers often are, regaling us with their
stories and asking interested questions about their guests' biking experiences. On
one occasion, a buzzer sounded. Big Ben hurriedly put on his firefighter suit and
rushed out to a fire, bidding adieu to the wide-eyed kids with not a little pride.
Lucian soon donned his Scout uniform and excused himself as he headed out to a
meeting. Marc and Rock left soon after, one to a nursing home, the other to who
knows where. After cleanup, Herbie, the kids and I watched TV for a while before
retiring to the church basement. The next day, it was French toast and sausages for
breakfast, and bags of apples, as we set off toward the GW Bridge and home,
rested and nourished both by food, and later on, by fond recollections. So there
you have it. Resetting those odometers worked for them. Then again, there's
something beautiful about watching vehicles that housed odometers slowly
changing back to their natural state. (P.O. Box 156, Burlington, ME 04417)
from JIM O'BRIEN ('54): Rose Ann and I have had a poor six months
since October. Our son-in-law was killed in an accident. Our daughter has a girl
fifteen, and a son twenty-one graduating from Purdue in May. It was a shock and
very hard on all our family. Rose Ann fell while helping our daughter and had to
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have knee surgery. I need a neck operation for a degenerative disc. If it weren't for
doctors and hospital visits, we'd have no 'social life.' We can always use more
prayers. That's what keeps us going. I am a real estate broker with Prudential
Carolina Real Estate. Property down here is going like Long Island was in the 60's
and 70's. We are about 700 miles from New York City and have many clients from
the NY,NJ,CT,PA areas. (311 Laughing Gull Court, Charlotte, NC 38470-5161;
910-575-4880;
jimroseob@aol.com
)
from JOHN O'CONNELL ('58): Hey, B/ brothers! Had a good day at
our April 18th 'gathering' in Esopus, even though only two of our four
(57/58/59/60) groups were represented. From the '58 group: Tom Fahey, Bernie
Ortuoste, Vince Poisella, Bill Shannon, Bob St. Amand, and I. From the '59
group: George Farrell, John Hermann, John McGalagly, Raoul Molnar, Mike
Mullin, John Nash, Don Nugent, and Frank Sutton. Each of us took a bit of time
to catch the rest of us up on the last forty years (!), not only as a way of
reestablishing relationships and bringing us into the present, but also to begin
building our community of caring, electronic or otherwise, for the future. Along
the way, we acknowledged and shared info regarding the circumstances around
our thirteen deceased members: rest in peace, Charlie Collins, Kenny Connell,
Renato Cruz, Cap Dooley, Tim Dooley, Bob Englert, Vinnie Hall, Phil La Croix,
John Lee, Pat McMahon, Bill Mielke, Ron Pochintesta, John Reul. Know that
many of you who missed our little gathering were talked about, unable as you
were to defend yourselves! Those of you who had specifically sent regrets might
have been more favorably remembered (?): Greg Ballerino, Jerry Brereton, Jerry
Byrne, Nick Caffrey, John Dillon, Reggie Diss, Ed Doran, Don Edwards, Phil
Hannigan, Pat Hogan, Bob Holm, Kevin Finn, Tom Hourican, Vince Kenny, John
Kinch, Pete Kuveke, Mo LaChance, Bill Lambert, Robert Lopez, John
McDonnell, Don Mulcare, Ron Mulholland, Russ Therriault, John Trainor, and
John Wilcox. Because of the interest, we decided to have another group gathering
for those of us who lived together once upon a time, between 1954 and 1960. We
are thinking about piggy-backing either on the Marist College Homecoming
(October 10-12), or around the ceremony for those buried in Esopus, usually
scheduled around All Souls Day in November. Please weigh in if you have any
thoughts on the matter. Other opportunities to connect might include the Marist
Family Gathering July 10-13, and/or the Greater Marist Community Picnic on
September 13th. (15 High Street, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538; 207-633-0644;
ObTAW@aol.com
)
from PHIL HANNIGAN ('60): (from a note to JOHN O'CONNELL): I
spent twenty years in the US Air Force and retired from the Pentagon as a
Lieutenant Colonel. Still working. We manage several Industry Associations.
Interesting work, and no heavy lifting. I finally dropped the nickname you gave
me ("Crash"). At one time I was a nuclear missile launch officer in SAC and
definitely did not need that nickname. I cannot thank you enough for the time and
effort you have put into getting the names of the people we went to school with,
much less the other contact information. I would be delighted to see the old gang
again: Reggie Diss, John Reynolds, Cookie Maher, Dick Couto, and Rene Roy.
Please keep me in the loop. (239 -939-3980;
marphan@comcast.net
)
from BR. DENIS HEVER ('64): Recently, it became clear that I have a
brain tumor. It took a year to figure that out! It is very deep and inoperable.
Radiation and chemotherapy will start soon. I write this so that you will know that
your prayers are requested. I am feeling wonderful, and if you saw me, you would
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say: "This guy looks terrific" (Excuse the vanity!) So, do not picture anyone wan.
(denishever@yahoo.com_
from DAVID KAMMER ('42): Isidore Sabeta suffered a stroke on Easter
Sunday morning at his home in Arare, Zimbabwe, and passed away later that day.
Isidore graduated from Marist College around 1969 and then gained a Master's
Degree in chemistry from the State University of New York at New Paltz. He
taught at Our Lady of Lourdes High School in Poughkeepsie before returning to
Zimbabwe in 1974. Sabeta is fondly remembered as "Izzy" by many of the Marist
community of the early 70's. (499 East Pond Rd; Smithfield, ME 04978; 207-362-
5495;
kammer@tds.net
)
from BR. HUGH TURLEY ('54) on BR. CLEMENT LEGARE ('34):
Our dear Br. Clem has passed away. We've lost a very genuine Marist Brother. Br.
Clem received life from God and his parents in 1916 and his vocation with the
Marist Brothers in 1931 in Haverhill, Massachusetts. He taught and worked with
his fellow Marists in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, West Virginia,
Rome (Italy), and Illinois. His specialties were computers, physics, and chemistry.
But his students were his first love. He used and mastered the classroom,
the Sodality of the Blessed Virgin, the rifle club, the flying club, ham radio,
science and math classes, fund raising and tutoring -- all to nurture the growth and
development of his students. He was a rough and tumble "teddy bear", and his
students loved him!
Br. Clem never retired. At 73, he took up inputting data for our
Remembrance in Prayer Program. He gradually assumed directorship of the
program until he was hospitalized at the age of 86 for an aneurysm on his dorsal
aorta. He never recovered from a post-operative dependence on a respirator. For
almost nine months his condition slowly deteriorated, until his death on January
29, 2003. (10114 South Leavitt, Chicago, IL 60643;
hugh@marist.net
)
from JOHN SAINSBURY ('61): I have always considered William
Murphy as a role model for excellence in intellect and challenging teaching. Class
experience with him was intense. His "opening act" would warn that "knowledge
maketh a bloody entry," and that we could expect no quarter from his expectation
for excellence from us.
As I recall, he had five graduate degrees, including a licentiate from
Oxford. He would prepare meticulously for his lecture. He would stroll around the
room, stopping for piercing questions to track learning's progress. Only
occasionally would he refer to his notes.
Our Tyngsboro novitiate class was blessed with William Murphy one
semester for three courses! (English composition, English literature; and
metaphysics) At various times during the semester, he would apologize for the
heavy reading and writing assignments. He urged us on with a black humor on
how he, as the philosophy professor, had talked with ( in the third person) our
literature professor to convince him to cut back on the pace of reading
assignments in Anna Karenina, to no avail. Then in literature class he would
advise how he had been unsuccessful in convincing his English composition
"associate" to reduce his writing assignment load!
Sometimes sparks would fly as he would not accept mediocrity from his
students. He was particularly unsuccessful one class in getting questions answered
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or dialogue discussion of the chapters of Anna Karenina. He stopped his lecture
and put the chilling question to us as to how many were up to each of the chapters
assigned. At that point, best of my recall, virtually no one was. He slammed his
book closed and gathered up his notes. With flushed face and fire in his eyes, he
advised us that he was not going to further waste his time that day. We should use
the rest of the class time to catch up on our reading and best be prepared for our
next class. He then assigned four more chapters and walked out of the class
leaving us feverishly reading Tolstoy. We did not fall behind again.
I think of the Dominican scholar A.G. Sertillange's comment: "The light
of God shines under your study lamp." What a blessing to have experienced
William Murphy's teaching. (1609 Havemeyer Lane, Bedondo Beach, CA 90278-
4717; 310-379-8204; johnsainsbury @aol.com)
from RICHARD COUTO ('60): We called him "Wild Bill" Murphy. We
were his first class at the Tyngsboro novitiate, and he brought us his high
expectations for study and thoughtful expression of ideas. His courses ranged over
different disciplines in a manner that is anathema today, but in each of them he
brought a determination to engage the ideas and authors of that field and to
engage us in engaging them as well. In his one-room college, we knew that we
had moved from high school to some place of serious encounter with ideas. I can
still picture him whipping off his glasses and swinging them by one of their side
pieces in half-circles in front of his face while he searched for the right word or a
connection of two ideas. We called him "wild" because of the energy he brought
to the classroom and the (unreasonable) amount of work he gave us. A tradition
that we carry on. We called him "wild" also because of his humor and irreverence.
He challenged icons of the mind and of groups. He could magnify a mistake into
humor. For instance, one of the retired Brothers boasted of having all of his teeth -
seventy-two of them - and Bill responded, "What, do you have a set in your mouth
and a set in your pocket?" Sometimes that humor could hit its target as ridicule,
but there was a warmth and caring connection that softened the barb with time and
prodded rather than wounded us.
He was a marvelous teacher and a wonderful example of a thinking
person. He remains among my best recollections and points of pride of my
association with the Marist Brothers (Antioch University, 2424 Trefoil Way,
Richmond, VA 23235; 804-320-2448;
rcouto@phd.antioch.edu
)
from BR. RENE ROY ('60): We were 18 and 19 years old, just out of
high school, most out of the Prep, and a giant walked into our life. We've never
been the same. Postulant year, St. Joseph's Novitiate, Tyngsboro, Massachusetts,
1959. Yes, 35 unsure young men were confronted by this intellectual who had just
returned from Louvain, Belgium, laden with the latest in Scripture, mariology, and
theology, who was also our philosophy and English teacher. We were both
fascinated and perplexed by his command of all that he taught, and by his
demands on us, who were limited to just a few hours of study per day. He loaded
up the library with Great Books: Hardy, Dostoevsky, Conrad, Buck, Proust,
Wilde, and demanded that we read and report on them. He ripped our first reports
to shreds, realizing that he'd have to teach us how to write one that showed insight
and made sense. He challenged us with epistemology, ontology, and metaphysics.
June 4, 1960: our philosophy final. We had learned all he taught, but more: we
had experienced the euphoria of doing something we considered impossible; we
learned how to stick with it and not let it destroy us; we learned the sweet feeling
of working hard to conquer and come out stretched beyond what we had ever
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imagined ourselves capable of. It was the greatest lesson of my postulant year, one
that has sustained me though my first years of teaching, three years of formation
work in the Cold Spring Novitiate, fourteen years on the Pine Ridge Reservation,
four years as vocation director, four years in Rwanda, and to this date, three years
as principal of a poor, in debt, but great, high school. If it had not been for the
challenges presented by "JWilliam the Magnificent," as some of us called him,
and his leading us to discover our potential, I never should have "made it through
the rain."
His death brings back many a memory. His death is cause to express
appreciation and gratitude for the legacy he left us when we parted from
Tyngsboro on August 16, 1961, headed for Marist College. Each of us in that
group has had a tremendous influence on those who have come into our lives.
Their lives are richer because ours were enriched by William J. Murphy, Brother
Joseph William. (4509 Eoff St., Wheeling, WV 26003; 304-233-8334;
royrene@hotmail.com
)
from BR. STEVE MINOGUE: I would like to comment on the death of
Mrs. Helen Tobin, wife of John Tobin (Br. Patrick Alban): On April 22, 2003,
Mass was celebrated in the Church of St. Pius IX, Towaco, New Jersey, for a
funeral well attended by the parishioners she loved and served so well. After a
rather painful struggle with a diabetic d\condition and serious circulatory
complications which intensified when dialysis no longer proved effective, Helen
breathed her last on Holy Saturday morning. Despite the slow and painful
revelations which death imposes on its victims, Helen nevertheless continued to
fix her gaze on God with faith and hope, accepting uncomplainingly whatever he
would send her. Remarkable, really, for, toward the end, the Lord asked a lot.
Her family gave touching testimony of her: "Aunt Helen simply loved
God, and that was her whole life," said one. And to the Marist Brothers she was
outstandingly generous. She contributed to the Province Retirement Fund and the
Missions and to a fund for underprivileged students at Archbishop Molloy High
School.
Those who knew Helen Tobin over the years could testify that she stood
tall and steady in the truth of her faith in God. What she believed, she lived. This
stood out in all she had to say and share, in her decisions and relationships. It
explains her generous heart. It was her strength in death. She was a very devout
and prayerful person. Helen Tobin, Woman of God. R.I.P. (Archbishop Molloy
High School, 83-53 Manton Street, Briarwood, NY 11435; 718-441-2100)
from BOB TOOLE ('54): As you may know, FRANK CASEY, aged 71,
passed away on March 24th. I had met Frank only once at one of the Marist
College weekend retreats, and he shared with me at length his love and caring for
the monks. At his wake there was a photo collage prominently displayed of his
Marist Brotherhood and current family, plus a "plug" for donations for the retired
monks. My sympathies were extended to his wife Marcella, his brother Tom, and
his sister Sheila. (As a Brother, Frank had taught at Mount St. Michael and
Cardinal Hayes. A niece, Maureen Casey, wrote: "I know I'm biased, but to me he
was the most amazing man I knew." His wife, Marcella Casey, resides at 26
Carrie Avenue; Bethpage, New York 11714-6407; 516-249-4890 - Editor)
As for me, I retired in 2001. Marcia and I have four granddaughters and a
grandson. Our oldest son has four children and our second son has one, with
identical twins expected in October. They and their wives tell us these seven will
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complete their families. Our daughter (26) is unmarried at this time. Marcia has
been a hospital volunteer for many years, and I am a volunteer in the cancer care
unit of Mercy Hospital in nearby Rockville Centre. I get to say many private
prayers over these patients as I care for them or take them for their various
treatments. They are so appreciative of any kindness extended to them. (2778
Wilson Avenue; Bellmore, NY 11710; 516-826-4022)
from BR. DOMINICK O'SULLIVAN (via BR. DON NEARY): I am
writing to inform you of the death on March 18th of BR. FERGUS MC CANN.
Some of the American Brothers would have known him when he was Master of
Second Novices in Switzerland from 1969 to 1979. Fergus was well known for his
scholarship in the fields of Scripture and theology and for his time kept very much
up to date through reading of journal articles published in English, French or
German. Fergus had not enjoyed good health for many years but only started to
decline seriously since moving to the Campbelltown Seniors Community in
August, 1999. Fergus was 92 with his next birthday due in May, and in his 72nd
year as a Marist
2004 National Conference of Lay Marists
"Making the Whole World Marist"
When: April 15-18, 2004
Where: Boston/Quincy Marriott Hotel, Boston, MA
What: A weekend celebration of Marist spirituality. Join other Marist laity, priests,
sisters, and brothers from all over the country for joyful liturgy, inspirational talks,
special tourist events, entertainment, fun, fellowship, and more!
Why: To "think, judge, feel, and act like Mary in all things"
Renew yourself in the Marist Spirit and rediscover the role of Marist laity. Mark
your calendar now! More information to follow throughout the year. (Ann Brown,
Chair; Marist Family Laity Service Committee; 10610 East Hercules; Sun Lakes
AZ 85248; 480-802-3742)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
from BR. KEVIN BLYTH (received by GUS NOLAN): Greetings from
"down under"! I have just returned from two Marist "episodes" here in our Sydney
Province. The first was our round of visits to our schools in the northern State of
Queensland. What do we do? Well, we encourage personal and corporate (?)
Marist Spirituality in all of these schools. Really, I suppose it is an effort, usually
enthusiastically received, to maintain a connection with the Brothers and with
Marist educational and spiritual philosophy. About fifty-five schools around the
continent belong to what we call the Association of Marist Schools of Australia.
The second "episode" is a movement we call "Sharing Our Call." This
consists of six sessions each year where about thirty teachers (support staff
included) come to our old novitiate at Mittagong (150 kms southwest of Sydney)
from Sunday afternoon to Wednesday lunchtime for a pretty intensive three days
on things Marist. So far, just under 1500 educators have done this course. So,
even though age has caught up with many of us, there is still enormous vitality
and interest in things Marist.
Thanks very much for continuing to send me the Marists All. I always
read it with great interest. I know a lot of names - especially those whom I have
met, e.g., Luke Driscoll, Sean Sammon, Lenny, and so on. But others as well, by
reputation or stories passed on!
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Some of our former men are having what they are calling "A Marist
Muster" later in April. This is taking place in Canberra, and I think they are
expecting a goodly number. Unfortunately, I am unable to be there as I will be
thousands of kilometres away in Ayr on that weekend. I have taken the liberty of
sending the March issue of Marists All to the chap who is organising this
"Muster". It might give him and his committee some good ideas. You might be
interested in looking up the Australian Marist Website. The address is:
www.maristoz.edu.au. Each school in the two provinces has links, so you might
pass a few hours (?) checking up on us.
(blythkfb@bigpond.com
)
from JIM FRIEL ('52): The new issue of the national magazine
Humanities, which I edit, has an editorial endorsing the Pope's position on world
peace. In these trying times, I think it's important to share such ideas. All the best
(20 Vail St., Northport, NY 11768-3038; 516-757-7506;
FrielKelly@aol.com
)
(Thanks to all who sent written contributions to Marists All. And an extra
thanks to those who sent a monetary contribution to defray costs of mailing. Ed.,
24 Brooklyn Mountain Road, Hopatcong, NJ 07843; 973-398-5477;
vtpoisella@yahoo.com)
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ISSUE # 72
May 2003
from VINCENT POISELLA, editor: Behind the scenes at the Marists All power
plant, David Kammer, Rich Foy, Gus Nolan are at the controls. In addition, our
web site technician, Jack Noone, who represents in superb manner the Founder's
wish that we "do good quietly," has been at work at the Marists All web site. He
has enhanced Rich Foy's creation and given it a new look. It is more convenient
and interesting if you would like to navigate around the site.
On the home page, the ticker tape is frequently updated to bring you the latest
news concerning the Marist family. Greater detail concerning the ticker tape news
item can be found on the News Bulletin web page. The History of Marists All web
page has been redesigned by having moving applet text superimposed over the
image of St. Marcellin Champagnat. The Obituaries web section has been
revamped so as to combine two new features: a revolving personal introduction to
each of the deceased compiled with an alphabetical listing to make it easier to
reach each linked eulogy. Why not take a moment to visit each of these new
features.
Jack is also in the process of copying all the past issues of Marists All newsletters
on to the Archives section. A new navigational bar is planned in the near future to
make it even easier to move about the Marists All web site. Enjoy!
Ninth Marist Family Weekend
Reunion -- Prayer -- Discussion
July 10,11,12,13, 2003
Marist College A Loving Heart: "Do whatever He tells you!"
The Ninth Marist Family Weekend continues to explore the meaning of
Marist spirituality as expressed in the lives of the Marist Brothers, former Marist
Brothers and their spouses, and indeed, the whole Marist family. Presenters will
focus on the personal and communal responses to Mary's words.
Highlights
Reunion of Marist Brothers, former Marist Brothers, wives, friends
Liturgy, Sharing, Visit to Esopus cemetery
Special Guests/Presenters: Br. Luke Driscoll, Br. John Malich, Rev. Owen
Lafferty, Gus Nolan, Don Mulcare, Rev. Pat Primeau, Rev. Ed Keel, Br.
Rene Roy, David Kammer
The Marist College Heritage Project: Brian Desilets, Richard Foy, Jack
Noone
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You are welcome to participate in the Marist Family Weekend. Send
registration request to Br. Charles Marcellin, Archbishop Molloy High School,
83-53 Manton Street, Briarwood, New York 11435-1697. Cost of the whole
weekend -- including nine meals, lodging for three nights, snacks, linens, and
insurance -- totals $255 for an individual, $375 per couple. Cost will be pro-rated
for those who are < able to join us for only part of the weekend. Please come,
even if only for a day or a few hours. Those who have other < accommodations
may request Òmeals only.Ó Let us know your plans so that we have enough food
for you! Contact Br. Charles Marcellin (718-441-2100; cmarcellin@molloyhs.org)
or Vince Poisella (973-398-5477;
vtpoisella@yahoo.com
.)
GMC PICNIC Once again we look forward to seeing many of you at the
annual Greater Marist Community picnic to be held at Mt. St. Michael in the
Bronx. The gathering will take place on Saturday, September 13th, noon to five
pm. Come with spouse and children or come alone. Bring your own beverage and
a potluck dish for a shared meal. All Brothers are most welcome to join in.
Thanks to the director and to the community of the Mount for welcoming us.
from TOM FAHEY ('58): Thanks for your continuing message of
reaching out to all of us who had the privilege of being part of the Marist
Community whether large or (as in my case) very small; but I carry in memory
forever the courage, character and charisma of those wonderful Marists I lived
with for two and a half years at the prep in Esopus from September, 1954, to
January, 1957. (One the Boulevard, New Rochelle, NY 10801; 914-576-3335;
faheytj@aol.com
)
from JOSEPH (Eugene Michael) HORAN ('50): When I read the Marists
All issues, I recall with fond memories those moments in our young life where we
shared so much with our classmates. Then, reading about the recent deaths of
those who were close to us, I think of the impact they had on us. These are
moments to be remembered always. My wife Dolores and I often talk about the
many former and present Brothers we met over the years. She still recalls the class
reunions we attended. She has always felt a part of this small group. As for us, we
have daughters that have given us many wonderful experiences, as well as
grandchildren. My daughter Joelle moved from Boston to Ft. Lauderdale. This
gives us a four hour drive to visit her and our granddaughter, since we live north
of Tampa. I just completed my elected turn as the homeowners association
chairman. It was a long two years, but we were able to establish our goals. Now I
can just relax and enjoy retirement. Perhaps we could have a class reunion in
2005. I heard from Br. Stephen Urban since my last letter. It brought back so
many excellent memories. Until our next class meeting, I think of each of my
Brothers. (10426 Collar Dr.; San Antonio, FL 33576; 352-588-0179;
jahoran@aol.com
)
from BILL MAHER ('54): Great job on the web site! A little anecdote for
Richard Foy. I don't know if you were with the four of us who were selected to
carry bricks to the top of the scaffold above the stage while the gym was being
built in Esopus in 1951. Four of us who were slight and small were given buckets
with four bricks to walk across the scaffolding to give to the mason who was
working. Br. Francis, in his most serious of faces and voice (none of us knew who
this man was at the time ), said: "...it would be better for you to jump down onto
the slate below than to tell me you chipped one of the bricks that have already
been set!" It was bad enough being up at that height, but then to have to be told
that really set us on edge. It wasn't until years later having the opportunity to live
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with him in Poughkeepsie that I was personally able to know the caring and soft
side of Br. Francis Xavier. (63 Eddy St., Norton, MA 02766; 508-285-4905;
mahere41@attbi.com
)
from CHARLES W. KENNEDY ('58): A tribute to Dan Kirk: He was
known at St. Ann's Academy. He was known at Marist College. And it was there
that he helped me. A cry in the wilderness, and he answered me. General
psychology...adolescent psychology...David Ausubel...satellizing, non-satellizing,
and exploratory children... and growth.... In memoriam, December 5, 1998. (43-34
42nd Street; Sunnyside, NY 11104 -2811; 718-786-6191)
from BILL DESCHENE ('53): (This story is dedicated to the eight
Brothers of my class who are celebrating their 50th anniversary of vowed Marist
life. It is a reliving of the hospitality given to groups of students and myself on the
occasions of our annual Easter bike hike from St. Helena's to Esopus and back via
stops at Cold Spring and Haverstraw during the late sixties and early seventies.)
The last stop on this week-long trek was at the Marist community in Haverstraw.
The Brothers who lived there taught in the local grade school. They were, to my
way of thinking back then, 'the over-the -hill crowd.' All had completed illustrious
careers as teachers: Marc and Rock; skilled tailor Lucian; gourmet cook, under
difficult circumstances, Herbie Hoover; and Camp Marist's first director, Big Ben.
Now, in advanced years, they showed up at school at 7: 30 and left at 2:30 after
putting in a full day in the classroom. Then came Office and evening prayer at
3:00 pm, followed by supper at four. After dishes, most were off to their evening
activities, except for Herbie, who stayed and got things set up for the next day. I
was used to a grade school staff being like the one I had joined with fellow
rookies, Francis Regis, Joe Strang, and John Dunne at Rego Park in the late fifties.
Our guides then were Alphonse Louis (low thirties), Kevin Justin, and Bernie
Nolan, both under thirty -- although Br. Bernard tried to pass himself off as very
experienced. (By comparison, the Haverstraw group was like a car whose
odometer had been reset.) Upon arriving at the Brother's residence, Big Ben
would take us to the Church and let us into the basement where we stowed our
bikes and set down our sleeping bags. Then it was up to the house for supper. The
bikers, ranging in number from seven to thirteen, were treated to steak, real
French fries (peeled, cut, and patted dry), and a kid-friendly vegetable, like frozen
corn or green beans. Dessert was Herbie's fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies.
The Brothers were very animated, as grandfathers often are, regaling us with their
stories and asking interested questions about their guests' biking experiences. On
one occasion, a buzzer sounded. Big Ben hurriedly put on his firefighter suit and
rushed out to a fire, bidding adieu to the wide-eyed kids with not a little pride.
Lucian soon donned his Scout uniform and excused himself as he headed out to a
meeting. Marc and Rock left soon after, one to a nursing home, the other to who
knows where. After cleanup, Herbie, the kids and I watched TV for a while before
retiring to the church basement. The next day, it was French toast and sausages for
breakfast, and bags of apples, as we set off toward the GW Bridge and home,
rested and nourished both by food, and later on, by fond recollections. So there
you have it. Resetting those odometers worked for them. Then again, there's
something beautiful about watching vehicles that housed odometers slowly
changing back to their natural state. (P.O. Box 156, Burlington, ME 04417)
from JIM O'BRIEN ('54): Rose Ann and I have had a poor six months
since October. Our son-in-law was killed in an accident. Our daughter has a girl
fifteen, and a son twenty-one graduating from Purdue in May. It was a shock and
very hard on all our family. Rose Ann fell while helping our daughter and had to
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have knee surgery. I need a neck operation for a degenerative disc. If it weren't for
doctors and hospital visits, we'd have no 'social life.' We can always use more
prayers. That's what keeps us going. I am a real estate broker with Prudential
Carolina Real Estate. Property down here is going like Long Island was in the 60's
and 70's. We are about 700 miles from New York City and have many clients from
the NY,NJ,CT,PA areas. (311 Laughing Gull Court, Charlotte, NC 38470-5161;
910-575-4880;
jimroseob@aol.com
)
from JOHN O'CONNELL ('58): Hey, B/ brothers! Had a good day at
our April 18th 'gathering' in Esopus, even though only two of our four
(57/58/59/60) groups were represented. From the '58 group: Tom Fahey, Bernie
Ortuoste, Vince Poisella, Bill Shannon, Bob St. Amand, and I. From the '59
group: George Farrell, John Hermann, John McGalagly, Raoul Molnar, Mike
Mullin, John Nash, Don Nugent, and Frank Sutton. Each of us took a bit of time
to catch the rest of us up on the last forty years (!), not only as a way of
reestablishing relationships and bringing us into the present, but also to begin
building our community of caring, electronic or otherwise, for the future. Along
the way, we acknowledged and shared info regarding the circumstances around
our thirteen deceased members: rest in peace, Charlie Collins, Kenny Connell,
Renato Cruz, Cap Dooley, Tim Dooley, Bob Englert, Vinnie Hall, Phil La Croix,
John Lee, Pat McMahon, Bill Mielke, Ron Pochintesta, John Reul. Know that
many of you who missed our little gathering were talked about, unable as you
were to defend yourselves! Those of you who had specifically sent regrets might
have been more favorably remembered (?): Greg Ballerino, Jerry Brereton, Jerry
Byrne, Nick Caffrey, John Dillon, Reggie Diss, Ed Doran, Don Edwards, Phil
Hannigan, Pat Hogan, Bob Holm, Kevin Finn, Tom Hourican, Vince Kenny, John
Kinch, Pete Kuveke, Mo LaChance, Bill Lambert, Robert Lopez, John
McDonnell, Don Mulcare, Ron Mulholland, Russ Therriault, John Trainor, and
John Wilcox. Because of the interest, we decided to have another group gathering
for those of us who lived together once upon a time, between 1954 and 1960. We
are thinking about piggy-backing either on the Marist College Homecoming
(October 10-12), or around the ceremony for those buried in Esopus, usually
scheduled around All Souls Day in November. Please weigh in if you have any
thoughts on the matter. Other opportunities to connect might include the Marist
Family Gathering July 10-13, and/or the Greater Marist Community Picnic on
September 13th. (15 High Street, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538; 207-633-0644;
ObTAW@aol.com
)
from PHIL HANNIGAN ('60): (from a note to JOHN O'CONNELL): I
spent twenty years in the US Air Force and retired from the Pentagon as a
Lieutenant Colonel. Still working. We manage several Industry Associations.
Interesting work, and no heavy lifting. I finally dropped the nickname you gave
me ("Crash"). At one time I was a nuclear missile launch officer in SAC and
definitely did not need that nickname. I cannot thank you enough for the time and
effort you have put into getting the names of the people we went to school with,
much less the other contact information. I would be delighted to see the old gang
again: Reggie Diss, John Reynolds, Cookie Maher, Dick Couto, and Rene Roy.
Please keep me in the loop. (239 -939-3980;
marphan@comcast.net
)
from BR. DENIS HEVER ('64): Recently, it became clear that I have a
brain tumor. It took a year to figure that out! It is very deep and inoperable.
Radiation and chemotherapy will start soon. I write this so that you will know that
your prayers are requested. I am feeling wonderful, and if you saw me, you would
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say: "This guy looks terrific" (Excuse the vanity!) So, do not picture anyone wan.
(denishever@yahoo.com_
from DAVID KAMMER ('42): Isidore Sabeta suffered a stroke on Easter
Sunday morning at his home in Arare, Zimbabwe, and passed away later that day.
Isidore graduated from Marist College around 1969 and then gained a Master's
Degree in chemistry from the State University of New York at New Paltz. He
taught at Our Lady of Lourdes High School in Poughkeepsie before returning to
Zimbabwe in 1974. Sabeta is fondly remembered as "Izzy" by many of the Marist
community of the early 70's. (499 East Pond Rd; Smithfield, ME 04978; 207-362-
5495;
kammer@tds.net
)
from BR. HUGH TURLEY ('54) on BR. CLEMENT LEGARE ('34):
Our dear Br. Clem has passed away. We've lost a very genuine Marist Brother. Br.
Clem received life from God and his parents in 1916 and his vocation with the
Marist Brothers in 1931 in Haverhill, Massachusetts. He taught and worked with
his fellow Marists in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, West Virginia,
Rome (Italy), and Illinois. His specialties were computers, physics, and chemistry.
But his students were his first love. He used and mastered the classroom,
the Sodality of the Blessed Virgin, the rifle club, the flying club, ham radio,
science and math classes, fund raising and tutoring -- all to nurture the growth and
development of his students. He was a rough and tumble "teddy bear", and his
students loved him!
Br. Clem never retired. At 73, he took up inputting data for our
Remembrance in Prayer Program. He gradually assumed directorship of the
program until he was hospitalized at the age of 86 for an aneurysm on his dorsal
aorta. He never recovered from a post-operative dependence on a respirator. For
almost nine months his condition slowly deteriorated, until his death on January
29, 2003. (10114 South Leavitt, Chicago, IL 60643;
hugh@marist.net
)
from JOHN SAINSBURY ('61): I have always considered William
Murphy as a role model for excellence in intellect and challenging teaching. Class
experience with him was intense. His "opening act" would warn that "knowledge
maketh a bloody entry," and that we could expect no quarter from his expectation
for excellence from us.
As I recall, he had five graduate degrees, including a licentiate from
Oxford. He would prepare meticulously for his lecture. He would stroll around the
room, stopping for piercing questions to track learning's progress. Only
occasionally would he refer to his notes.
Our Tyngsboro novitiate class was blessed with William Murphy one
semester for three courses! (English composition, English literature; and
metaphysics) At various times during the semester, he would apologize for the
heavy reading and writing assignments. He urged us on with a black humor on
how he, as the philosophy professor, had talked with ( in the third person) our
literature professor to convince him to cut back on the pace of reading
assignments in Anna Karenina, to no avail. Then in literature class he would
advise how he had been unsuccessful in convincing his English composition
"associate" to reduce his writing assignment load!
Sometimes sparks would fly as he would not accept mediocrity from his
students. He was particularly unsuccessful one class in getting questions answered
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or dialogue discussion of the chapters of Anna Karenina. He stopped his lecture
and put the chilling question to us as to how many were up to each of the chapters
assigned. At that point, best of my recall, virtually no one was. He slammed his
book closed and gathered up his notes. With flushed face and fire in his eyes, he
advised us that he was not going to further waste his time that day. We should use
the rest of the class time to catch up on our reading and best be prepared for our
next class. He then assigned four more chapters and walked out of the class
leaving us feverishly reading Tolstoy. We did not fall behind again.
I think of the Dominican scholar A.G. Sertillange's comment: "The light
of God shines under your study lamp." What a blessing to have experienced
William Murphy's teaching. (1609 Havemeyer Lane, Bedondo Beach, CA 90278-
4717; 310-379-8204; johnsainsbury @aol.com)
from RICHARD COUTO ('60): We called him "Wild Bill" Murphy. We
were his first class at the Tyngsboro novitiate, and he brought us his high
expectations for study and thoughtful expression of ideas. His courses ranged over
different disciplines in a manner that is anathema today, but in each of them he
brought a determination to engage the ideas and authors of that field and to
engage us in engaging them as well. In his one-room college, we knew that we
had moved from high school to some place of serious encounter with ideas. I can
still picture him whipping off his glasses and swinging them by one of their side
pieces in half-circles in front of his face while he searched for the right word or a
connection of two ideas. We called him "wild" because of the energy he brought
to the classroom and the (unreasonable) amount of work he gave us. A tradition
that we carry on. We called him "wild" also because of his humor and irreverence.
He challenged icons of the mind and of groups. He could magnify a mistake into
humor. For instance, one of the retired Brothers boasted of having all of his teeth -
seventy-two of them - and Bill responded, "What, do you have a set in your mouth
and a set in your pocket?" Sometimes that humor could hit its target as ridicule,
but there was a warmth and caring connection that softened the barb with time and
prodded rather than wounded us.
He was a marvelous teacher and a wonderful example of a thinking
person. He remains among my best recollections and points of pride of my
association with the Marist Brothers (Antioch University, 2424 Trefoil Way,
Richmond, VA 23235; 804-320-2448;
rcouto@phd.antioch.edu
)
from BR. RENE ROY ('60): We were 18 and 19 years old, just out of
high school, most out of the Prep, and a giant walked into our life. We've never
been the same. Postulant year, St. Joseph's Novitiate, Tyngsboro, Massachusetts,
1959. Yes, 35 unsure young men were confronted by this intellectual who had just
returned from Louvain, Belgium, laden with the latest in Scripture, mariology, and
theology, who was also our philosophy and English teacher. We were both
fascinated and perplexed by his command of all that he taught, and by his
demands on us, who were limited to just a few hours of study per day. He loaded
up the library with Great Books: Hardy, Dostoevsky, Conrad, Buck, Proust,
Wilde, and demanded that we read and report on them. He ripped our first reports
to shreds, realizing that he'd have to teach us how to write one that showed insight
and made sense. He challenged us with epistemology, ontology, and metaphysics.
June 4, 1960: our philosophy final. We had learned all he taught, but more: we
had experienced the euphoria of doing something we considered impossible; we
learned how to stick with it and not let it destroy us; we learned the sweet feeling
of working hard to conquer and come out stretched beyond what we had ever
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imagined ourselves capable of. It was the greatest lesson of my postulant year, one
that has sustained me though my first years of teaching, three years of formation
work in the Cold Spring Novitiate, fourteen years on the Pine Ridge Reservation,
four years as vocation director, four years in Rwanda, and to this date, three years
as principal of a poor, in debt, but great, high school. If it had not been for the
challenges presented by "JWilliam the Magnificent," as some of us called him,
and his leading us to discover our potential, I never should have "made it through
the rain."
His death brings back many a memory. His death is cause to express
appreciation and gratitude for the legacy he left us when we parted from
Tyngsboro on August 16, 1961, headed for Marist College. Each of us in that
group has had a tremendous influence on those who have come into our lives.
Their lives are richer because ours were enriched by William J. Murphy, Brother
Joseph William. (4509 Eoff St., Wheeling, WV 26003; 304-233-8334;
royrene@hotmail.com
)
from BR. STEVE MINOGUE: I would like to comment on the death of
Mrs. Helen Tobin, wife of John Tobin (Br. Patrick Alban): On April 22, 2003,
Mass was celebrated in the Church of St. Pius IX, Towaco, New Jersey, for a
funeral well attended by the parishioners she loved and served so well. After a
rather painful struggle with a diabetic d\condition and serious circulatory
complications which intensified when dialysis no longer proved effective, Helen
breathed her last on Holy Saturday morning. Despite the slow and painful
revelations which death imposes on its victims, Helen nevertheless continued to
fix her gaze on God with faith and hope, accepting uncomplainingly whatever he
would send her. Remarkable, really, for, toward the end, the Lord asked a lot.
Her family gave touching testimony of her: "Aunt Helen simply loved
God, and that was her whole life," said one. And to the Marist Brothers she was
outstandingly generous. She contributed to the Province Retirement Fund and the
Missions and to a fund for underprivileged students at Archbishop Molloy High
School.
Those who knew Helen Tobin over the years could testify that she stood
tall and steady in the truth of her faith in God. What she believed, she lived. This
stood out in all she had to say and share, in her decisions and relationships. It
explains her generous heart. It was her strength in death. She was a very devout
and prayerful person. Helen Tobin, Woman of God. R.I.P. (Archbishop Molloy
High School, 83-53 Manton Street, Briarwood, NY 11435; 718-441-2100)
from BOB TOOLE ('54): As you may know, FRANK CASEY, aged 71,
passed away on March 24th. I had met Frank only once at one of the Marist
College weekend retreats, and he shared with me at length his love and caring for
the monks. At his wake there was a photo collage prominently displayed of his
Marist Brotherhood and current family, plus a "plug" for donations for the retired
monks. My sympathies were extended to his wife Marcella, his brother Tom, and
his sister Sheila. (As a Brother, Frank had taught at Mount St. Michael and
Cardinal Hayes. A niece, Maureen Casey, wrote: "I know I'm biased, but to me he
was the most amazing man I knew." His wife, Marcella Casey, resides at 26
Carrie Avenue; Bethpage, New York 11714-6407; 516-249-4890 - Editor)
As for me, I retired in 2001. Marcia and I have four granddaughters and a
grandson. Our oldest son has four children and our second son has one, with
identical twins expected in October. They and their wives tell us these seven will
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complete their families. Our daughter (26) is unmarried at this time. Marcia has
been a hospital volunteer for many years, and I am a volunteer in the cancer care
unit of Mercy Hospital in nearby Rockville Centre. I get to say many private
prayers over these patients as I care for them or take them for their various
treatments. They are so appreciative of any kindness extended to them. (2778
Wilson Avenue; Bellmore, NY 11710; 516-826-4022)
from BR. DOMINICK O'SULLIVAN (via BR. DON NEARY): I am
writing to inform you of the death on March 18th of BR. FERGUS MC CANN.
Some of the American Brothers would have known him when he was Master of
Second Novices in Switzerland from 1969 to 1979. Fergus was well known for his
scholarship in the fields of Scripture and theology and for his time kept very much
up to date through reading of journal articles published in English, French or
German. Fergus had not enjoyed good health for many years but only started to
decline seriously since moving to the Campbelltown Seniors Community in
August, 1999. Fergus was 92 with his next birthday due in May, and in his 72nd
year as a Marist
2004 National Conference of Lay Marists
"Making the Whole World Marist"
When: April 15-18, 2004
Where: Boston/Quincy Marriott Hotel, Boston, MA
What: A weekend celebration of Marist spirituality. Join other Marist laity, priests,
sisters, and brothers from all over the country for joyful liturgy, inspirational talks,
special tourist events, entertainment, fun, fellowship, and more!
Why: To "think, judge, feel, and act like Mary in all things"
Renew yourself in the Marist Spirit and rediscover the role of Marist laity. Mark
your calendar now! More information to follow throughout the year. (Ann Brown,
Chair; Marist Family Laity Service Committee; 10610 East Hercules; Sun Lakes
AZ 85248; 480-802-3742)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
from BR. KEVIN BLYTH (received by GUS NOLAN): Greetings from
"down under"! I have just returned from two Marist "episodes" here in our Sydney
Province. The first was our round of visits to our schools in the northern State of
Queensland. What do we do? Well, we encourage personal and corporate (?)
Marist Spirituality in all of these schools. Really, I suppose it is an effort, usually
enthusiastically received, to maintain a connection with the Brothers and with
Marist educational and spiritual philosophy. About fifty-five schools around the
continent belong to what we call the Association of Marist Schools of Australia.
The second "episode" is a movement we call "Sharing Our Call." This
consists of six sessions each year where about thirty teachers (support staff
included) come to our old novitiate at Mittagong (150 kms southwest of Sydney)
from Sunday afternoon to Wednesday lunchtime for a pretty intensive three days
on things Marist. So far, just under 1500 educators have done this course. So,
even though age has caught up with many of us, there is still enormous vitality
and interest in things Marist.
Thanks very much for continuing to send me the Marists All. I always
read it with great interest. I know a lot of names - especially those whom I have
met, e.g., Luke Driscoll, Sean Sammon, Lenny, and so on. But others as well, by
reputation or stories passed on!
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Some of our former men are having what they are calling "A Marist
Muster" later in April. This is taking place in Canberra, and I think they are
expecting a goodly number. Unfortunately, I am unable to be there as I will be
thousands of kilometres away in Ayr on that weekend. I have taken the liberty of
sending the March issue of Marists All to the chap who is organising this
"Muster". It might give him and his committee some good ideas. You might be
interested in looking up the Australian Marist Website. The address is:
www.maristoz.edu.au. Each school in the two provinces has links, so you might
pass a few hours (?) checking up on us.
(blythkfb@bigpond.com
)
from JIM FRIEL ('52): The new issue of the national magazine
Humanities, which I edit, has an editorial endorsing the Pope's position on world
peace. In these trying times, I think it's important to share such ideas. All the best
(20 Vail St., Northport, NY 11768-3038; 516-757-7506;
FrielKelly@aol.com
)
(Thanks to all who sent written contributions to Marists All. And an extra
thanks to those who sent a monetary contribution to defray costs of mailing. Ed.,
24 Brooklyn Mountain Road, Hopatcong, NJ 07843; 973-398-5477;
vtpoisella@yahoo.com)
