Marists All: Issue #48 May 1999
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ISSUE # 48
May 1999
FROM JEPTHA LANNING ('49) - our "reporter on assignment!"
Rome, Sunday, April 18, 1999
THE CANONIZATION OF SAINT MARCELLIN CHAMPAGNAT
Joan and I awoke to uncertain weather at Hotel Pisana Palace on the outskirts of
Rome. Clouds were moving rapidly across the sun on a cool spring morning
giving little clue if the day were to be rainy or sunny. We hustled down to
breakfast and then called a taxi for our journey into the city. After a fast twenty
minute ride we joined many thousands of pilgrims slowly moving into St. Peter's
Square, many bedecked in different colored scarves in honor of Saint Marcellin,
Saint John Calabria, founder of the Poor Servants of Divine Providence who
died in 1954, and Saint Agostina Livia Pietrantoni, a Sister of Charity, murdered
in 1894 by one of her hospital patients.
Clutching our yellow tickets of invitation, we found seats in the last row of
Section 1. We were some fifty yards in front of the obelisk. Before us on the
front of the Basilica were large pictures of the saints: St. Marcellin in the middle,
flanked by St. John on the left and St. Agostina on the right. As we looked about,
we noticed a number of people from Brazil, many from Mexico, some from
Italy, and right behind us in Section 3 delegations from Puerto Rico and Cuba.
What a thrill to hear these groups chanting MAR-SAY-LEE-NO! MAR-SAY-
LEE-NO! An atmosphere of joy, laughter and good fellowship prevailed.
About 10 a.m. to loud applause the Holy Father took his place upon a white,
throne-like chair under a large, red canopy. Mass began with the choir singing
Jubilate Deo, followed by the Pope acknowledging the new saints. Then came
the rite of canonization with the Prefect of the Congregation of the Saints asking
the Holy Father to enroll Saints Marcellin, John, and Agostina in the catalogue
of the Saints. The choir chanted the litany of the Saints, with the assembled
thousands replying "Ora pro nobis." The Holy Father solemnly pronounced the
formula of Canonization, replying to the request of the Prefect with the word:
"Decernimus. "
The chant of the Mass of the Angels brought back so many memories to this
reporter of High Masses long past and of so many of our deceased brothers now
celebrating this momentous occasion in heaven. Our eyes were wet and it was an
effort to swallow as we stood, Joan and I, in that square surrounded by those
thousands of people representing the church universal celebrating this day so
often prayed for. Joan, a former Daughter of Wisdom, fully appreciated my
feelings on this Marian Day. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, the
gospel of the day, our hearts were burning within. During the solemn part of the
Mass we prayed for all Marists, living and dead, near and far.
The Zenit News Agency, in its edited version of the Pope's homily, noted that
"St. Marcellin announced the Gospel with an ardent heart. He was sensitive to
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the spiritual and educational needs of his time, especially the prevailing religious
ignorance and abandonment that youth were experiencing." The Pope proposed
St. Marcellin as "a model for all parents and educators to help them look upon
youth with hope, to encourage them with total love, which will make a true
human, moral, and spiritual formation possible."
From time to time some rain fell. However, we will never forget the kiss of
peace, exchanging smiles and handshakes and greetings with so many people in
different languages. Close upon noon the service was near an end. The choir
sang the Regina Coeli and the Holy Father gave the final blessing. The Mass of
Canonization was over.
Swiss Guards appeared at our barricade. A crush of people engulfed us and
pushed us against the railing. Soon a small jeep-like car made its way between
Sections 1 and 3. And there he was, Pope John Paul II, for an instant a few feet
away.
As we made our way out of St. Peter's Square we met Brothers Adolph Leo and
Joseph Belanger. The sun was now shining brightly, the clouds were gone as we
made our way down Via Della Conciliazione. We stopped at Ristorante
Pierdonati for a Roman lunch, accompanied by a bottle of Frascati.
And so, in spite of our two-day delay at the start of our journey from Miami. to
Rome, with the attendant postponements, cancellation of flights, and the late
arriving luggage, the trip was all worth it. Now tucked away in our memory
banks, we truly have a "Day to Remember." (2200 South Ocean Blvd., Delray
Beach, 33483)
LIBERIA :
taken from correspondence from Br. Martin Ruane and Br. Denis Hever
The mission in Liberia was started in 1986 by Leo Shea, Lucian Duguay, and
Dave Cooney. Civil war broke out in 1989 and continued until 1996. During the
war several young Liberians requested to become Marist Brothers; six are now
professed. In 1996 due to illness and political instability the Brothers left the
country.
Leo Shea, now Esopus provincial, Marty Ruane, Denis Hever, and Alfred
George returned to Morovia February 24th to begin the re-foundation. of the
mission. What they noticed first was the general devastation, not much
reconstruction, and a general serious attitude of the people who in an earlier day
were happy, smiling, and always willing to greet. The following day the Brothers
met with three of the young Liberian Brothers who had returned home from
South Africa. Their lives and experiences over the past ten years had matured
them significantly. They were eager to help their people. Their first concern was
prayer life, which greatly enheartened those from the U.S.
The Archbishop of Morovia had kept his bargain with the Brothers. Their house
is fully repaired, completely painted, bright and spacious. It is just off a main
road in a busy area, but likely to be hot and noisy. It is not far from the local
parish. In the attached school the three young Brothers - Augustine Martin,
Alfred Gipli, and George Werner - will eventually be assigned to teach religion.
Over the course of four or five days the Brothers met with many other
missionaries to get a read on the situation in Morovia. Marty Ruane and Alfred
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George remain in Liberia working with the three young Brothers to furnish the
house, from scratch - no small task in view o£ the need to purchase vehicle and
generator as well as furniture, dishes, utensils, and supplies. In time a little
chapel will be furnished. Steve Minogue and John McDonnell will be on hand
for several months this sumer and fall to help out.
The Brothers return to Liberia with great hopes and an awareness of the very
fragile nature of the political situation. Knowing that they are supported with
prayer is a great encouragement.
There is no reliable postal system in or out of the country at present; whatever
mail is sent is opened in pursuit of cash. However, Denis Hever is back in the
states until the end of August. He is at 3705 Eoff Street, Wheeling, Wv. 26003;
304-232-3618.
FROM JOHN (James Austin) McALEER ('42): I left the order in October, 1957,
after 16 years as a Marist. This is my first. message to Marists All, due only to
my ignorance of its existence until a few weeks ago. The November 1995 issue
was mailed to me by my sister-in-law, Marge McAleer, who happens to be the
sister of Steve (Hugh Ephrem) Sheridan ('42). My brother Pat met Marge on a
fateful visiting Sunday at the Pksie novitiate in the early forties. My phone call
to David Kammer of my group resulted in a flow of 45 previous issues,
approximately 300,000 words! Those amazing chronicles have been absorbing
my attention. (Vaguely I hear: "Yoo-hoo, it's me. Yoo-hoo., it's your wife, dear'
Yoo-hoo, the house is on fire!"
I am deeply moved by the honesty and openness evident in the GMC-FMS
communications. It's a far cry from the attitudes that seemed to exist when I got
my dispensation in the fall of 1957. It is heartwarming to see in Marists All a
real-life demonstration of the phrase about the first Brothers: "See how they love
one another." The lists of deaths, anniversaries, and celebrations, and the letters
themselves, bring back so many fond memories. There are few communities of
my time that I did not call home: Pksie novitiate and scholasticate '41-'44;
Lawrence '44-'48; St. Agnes '48-'50 (student '35-'39); Cardinal Hayes '50-'52;
Wheeling '52-'53; St. Ann is '53-'55; Marist, Bayonne '55-'56; St. Paul-Trois-
Chateaux '56-'57; Juniorate, Esopus '57, plus occasional summers at Camp
Marist and Tyngsboro.
When I left at age 35, I accepted a job as associate editor at the Catholic
University of America Press publishing scholarly books and textbooks. In 1955 I
met Ruth an R.N. at a St. Patrick's Day dance sponsored by the Knights of
Columbus. We were married in October of that year. In the next two years Ruth
gave birth to Mary Catherine and then Sean. Time to head for a more generous
employer in the Big Apple! I got a job at Doubleday for a short stay, then settled
in at Harcourt Brace from '61 to '65. While there, three special things occurred:
Our youngest Thom was born; I was promoted from a textbook editor to
managing editor of the textbook division; I received the grace at the age of 40 to
accept the fact that I was an alcoholic and needed AA.
There were no dramatic losses, financial or otherwise, but I was dying inside. I
was a hollow man. Looking back, I could see that the process of this negative
spiritual illness had begun long before I left the order. I thank God for the gift of
AA every day of my life.
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On January 15th I celebrated 36 years off the sauce. I still go to AA meetings
and currently sponsor (mentor) several young men. If I had paid half as much
attention to the Rule in the old days as I've paid to the 12 steps and 12 traditions
of AA, I might have become the first canonized American brother!
In 1966, still trying to play catch-up in the marketplace, I moved to Chicagoland
and worked in editorial management for Harper and Row and then in 1965 for
Scott Foresman. The latter firm made me an officer of the company one year and
fired me the next, 1971. It was all very civilized and the severance settlement
was generous. I was 49 years old and was ready to lower the curtain on 30 years
of education and educational publishing. After serious consideration of stock
brokerage, insurance, and other kinds of employment, I chose the real estate
business. No more corporate perks, no paid medical insurance, no taxes
deducted, no pension plan, no paid vacation. It was scary at first, but I worked
hard, things fell into place, and God provided. I did well in that business for 14
years.
In 1954 I was 62. My children had as much education as they thought they
wanted or needed and were financially on their own. Ruth gave me a green light
to do something I had wanted to do for a long time. I entered a year-long
program at Grant Hospital in Chicago to be one certified as an alcohol and drug
therapist. I did internship at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston; then they hired me
as a full-time counselor in their outpatient program. A year later I joined the
inpatient staff of the substance abuse program at a hospital in Waukegan. Being
a case manager for up to six patients over a three or four week stay was the
hardest and most demanding work I've ever done, but I think it was the most
satisfying work of my life. After eight years at that work and following my
second open-heart surgery I retired in 1993 at the age of 71.
Meanwhile, Ruth had been on her own journey. Back in the sixties she was one
of the pioneers introducing Lamaze childbirth education to the North Shore of
Chicagoland. She went back to school to complete her BA and then got an MA
in psychology. She resumed her nursing career and founded the first hospice at
Lake Forest Hospital. In 1984 her reception into the Episcopal Church triggered
quite a noticeable deepening of her spirituality. Her work with the dying, with
their families, and with her hospice volunteers developed into a real ministry.
Eventually she felt a call to the priesthood that wouldn't go away. With
encouragement from me and others she submitted herself to the rather
formidable discernment process and ultimately went to Seabury Western
Theology Seminary in Evanston, was ordained a priest in December of 1992,
and set about to look for a job. (The Episcopal system requires priests to apply
and compete for positions and to be "called" by the vestry of the particular
parish.)
Ruth's work took us to Detroit in 1993, just as I retired. I went along as Ruth's
spear-carrier. After all, she had followed me around the country earlier; now it
was my turn. Ruth founded yet another hospice in Detroit and did a lot of parish
work. When the hospice was up and running, we decided to move to the Kansas
City area to be near our children: son Thom (36), daughter Mary (39) and her
husband John, grandchildren Hannah (6) and Matthew (9). Our son Sean (38)
lives in Chicago with his wife Teresa.
Ruth is currently rector o£ Grace Episcopal Church in nearby Ottawa, Kansas. I
have supported her at every step of her journey. It has been a marvelous and
gracefilled experience for me. Even though my laundry list of disagreements
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with the Vatican seems to get longer each year, I'm very much in communion
with the Roman church and get much joy from the practice of my faith. The
NCR is an important fixture in my life. I belong to Pax Christi and to Call to
Action.
I've had a fair amount of parish involvement. I worked RCIA for a number of
years. I've been part of Remembering Church. In recent years I've been more
interested in justice and peace activities. I've organized workshops on non-
violence and welfare reform from a Gospel point of view. I've also marched
against Desert Storm and protested against missile makers and gun dealers. A lot
of my colleagues have gone to jail.
It would be foolish for me to try to deny the influence of my 16 years as a Marist
on my present spirituality. That humility, simplicity, and modesty still loom as
highly desirable traits. The spirit of poverty and the concept of detachment from
material things cling like Velcro and seem to interfere with serious pursuit of
sybaritic pleasure. If you add 12 step spirituality, a measure of creation theology
out of Meister Eckhart and Matthew Fox, and a lot of directed Jesuit retreats,
you have some of the stuff that has been fueling my own engine for a long time.
I developed cancer two years ago, a lymphoma affecting some vertebrae and
ribs. The chemotherapy was worse then the cancer, but it did the job. I've had
clear CT scans for a year and a half. Thank God. They tell me I have a 50/50
chance of no recurrence. Thanks for letting me be a part of Marists All. Is life a
magnificent mystery or what!
Thanks for sending the proposed copy of my letter for Marists All. I understand
the need to trim the content, like with Sergeant Friday, "It's only the facts,
Mam!" After all my years of editing, it's only fair that some of my prose should
be trimmed. I think what you guys are doing is a fantastic ministry. I am grateful
for it. (8700 Metcalf #102, Overland Park, Ks. 66212-2040)
FROM PAT KIELTY ('65): I'm finishing off the third and last hour of Saturday
school and am ready to scream. It seems like a perfect time to write to Marists
All. Numbers, numbers: 52 years old, 31 years teaching (15 English, 16 math , 3
years of math at new school in Clarksville, Maryland, 25 years of wedded bliss,
2 children 19 & 22, 3 years from "working retirement," 8 year old Corgi, 22
years in Maryland, 244 pounds, and $0.00 in savings.
My oldest daughter Justine is finishing her bachelor's and will graduate from,
Frostburg State University in western Maryland this May. Her degree is in mass
communications, but I haven't a clue what she plans to do besides move back
home. I'm braced for the return and hope it will be short. Do they really get jobs
and move out?
Erin, my younger daughter, also attends Frostburg - theatre major. Erin will
attend Mary Immaculate College in Limerick, Ireland, next semester. This is a
great opportunity. I've become a bit more Irish in the years since St. Helena's.
Two trips to the Emerald Isle, Irish folk music collection, many great Irish films.
When I was younger I saw only the worst of the Irish drunkenness and
meanness.I have a better perspective on things now with a lot of pridein my
ancestry. Anne and I are planning to visit Erin in Ireland over the spring
vacation. We're renting a car and staying with families (B & B) in the northern
part of Ireland, perhaps even into Northern Ireland.
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Anne has been an eighthgrade English teacher in Ellicott City since 1977.
Additionally, she is the team leader for an inter-disciplinary team. She loves her
job after 33 years, twentyone at the same school. Though Anne and I have some
health problems (diabetes, high blood pressure), we feel fine.
Me? Anxious to retire. After 30 plus years anything gets old. In fact, I've never
left school since I ran off to Miss Kenny and her kindergarten class at George
Washington School in West Hempstead 48 years ago. I figure that we'll retire
from the Howard County Public School System around the time Erin finishes
college.The day we retire is the day we're planning to move to Florida, Tampa
perhaps. Wherever the jobs are. Our Maryland early retirement benefit sucks, so
we'll have to work. That's appealing - new place, new job. I'd love to hear from
others who have retired from teaching and have changed to new occupations.
The process is a bit daunting, so I'm open to advice.
I have read the letters sent by others to this newsletter and what does impress me
most is each person's spirituality. Are there any pagans like me out there? Pagan
is too strong, but uninvolved might be better. Occasionally I do rally, but for the
most part I'm one of those "fallen away" Catholics. I feel that I should be a more
spiritual person, but ... Any thoughts?
Regards to all the folks I met in Esopus, Poughkeepsie, and the Bronx during the
sixties. I'd love to hear from each of you either personally or through Marists
All. (10140 Tanfield Court, Ellicott City, Maryland, 21042; 410-461-7435)
ANNUAL
GMC PICNIC:
September 18th
FROM BR. DENIS BUCKLEY ('36): I want to thank you and anyone else who
has been sending Marists All to me. I must confess that the greater majority of
the names are unknown to me, for I left the country in 1950 for my missionary
work in the Philippines. However, I find each copy very interesting to read, and I
am happy when at times I recognize a name that I know. Be assured that I pass
the newsletter on to the men living here. They certainly enjoy it as I do.
Incidentally, this house in Miami was a gift from the former owner and resident,
Mr. Henri Jubinville, who died more than a year ago. I was sent here to make the
house livable for the Brothers. I've been here for a year come April, when I shall
be re-assigned to Mt. St. Michael. Again, I wish to express my warm thanks and
want you to be assured that you and your work on Marists All will be daily
remembered in my prayers. Yours in Mary. 8850 S.W. 154th Terrace, Miami, F1.
33157; 305-232-1264)
FROM BRIAN HENRY DESILETS ('45): We are getting ready to attend the
first vows ceremony of our son with the CFR (Community of the Franciscans of
the Renewal). His novitiate was at their Friary in Harlem. He seems to be happy
with them. He will be coming home for a two week vacation and will then go to
his first assignment which we will find out on the day of his profession.
Our middle daughter Kathleen is a CPA and is assigned by Arthur Anderson as
an accountant at the corporate headquarters of the Avon Corporation. She is
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living with us and is putting money aside to buy a condo in Hoboken where the
jupees are going these days.
GUS, I didn't know that you had purchased a second home in Florida. More
power to you! We might visit you some day. Just now we can't get away from
home very easily. Kay's mother is getting older and she requires a lot of
attention, so we can't leave her without inconveniencing Kay's sister who would
have to take our place.
Thanks for all you have done to keep Marists All going. It has really generated
links with the past. (6 lake Oniad Drive, Wappingers Falls, New York, 12590)
FROM REV. BILL SEARS ('52): Living in my retirement years I don't do
anything exciting, so I haven't much to write about. I do enjoy relatively good
health in spite of heart problems that I developed in 1982. As I tell my Doc: "I
'm ready but the 'Boss' ain't!"
I offer Mass on a privateisland in an "all-faiths" chapel on Sunday. On the way
over from the mainland recently we ran. out of gas, and wouldn't you know I
forgot my Jesus shoes. Then I prayed to St. Marcellin and a tow showed up.
Most exciting thing that has happened recently. All's well that ...I'm rejoicing
that my "former boss" is being raised to the honors of the altar.I pray to him
regularly and never forget my Marist roots. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was
offered on Saturday, February 6th, for the intentions of all the staff of Marists
All. I really do enjoy reading every issue. Keep it rolling.
Ain't life great in Florida? Oneof these days when I get my --- in gear I'll get
over to the east coast of this paradise to see all "yeuse guys." Padre Bill Sears.
(1745 Padre Land #62, Englewood, Fl. 34223; 941-474-5217)
SENIOR" JUBILARIANS: 1999
50th:
Br. James Gaffney
Br. James Kearney
Br. Thomas Lee
Br. Bernard Nolan
Br. Francis Ryan
Br. Francis Thomas
Br. Patrick Tyrell
55th:
Br. John Francis Colbert
Br. Alphonse Louis Dubois
Br. Adolph Leo
Br. Edward Francis Vollmer
60th:
Br. Conan Vincent Dineen
Br. Joseph Teston
65th:
Br. Clement Legare
Br. Philip McEnaney
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70th:
Br. E. Michael Bernard
FROM TOM HOURICAN ('61): I am writing to let you know that Tim Dooley
died of cancer on December 9th, 1998. Tim and I were in the group of 1961, he
making his novitiate in Tyngsboro and I in Esopus; we graduated together from
the juniorate in June of 1959 and from Marist College in June of 1964.
Tim has lived in England since January of 1974.He was diagnosed with cancer
in late August. By the time the cancer was discovered it was inoperable. It had
spread from his stomach to his lungs and into his esophagus. I found out about
Tim's illness in late September and I went over to England to see him. I was
surprised to see that Tim had a book about the life of Marcellin Champagnat and
a copy of the Office. You see, Tim had met an elderly Marist Brother in England
a number of years earlier. When that Brother Wilfred found out about Tim's
illness, he went to see Tim and brought him the two books. I think the name of
the book about Champagnat was Strong Mind, Gentle Heart. It seemed so
strange to me to thumb through the old prayer book. I had not seen one in over
30 years; Tim said he used it frequently.
Tim seemed to be at peace with his situation.He was resigned to accepting the
will of God, yet he was determined to beat the cancer by prayer and will power.
The last day I saw him he tried to explain to me how the mind could overcome
the physical and how he was going to beat the cancer. He asked me to unite with
him, because he felt that it would be more effective if more than one mind was
acting as one. I told him that I would try, but I also had to tell him that I didn't
understand a lot of what he tried to explain to me. I talked to Tim three or four
times from early October until he died, and I got to appreciate the deep
spirituality that he had, some thing that was always there but that I never really
noticed. Tim died at home with his family. He is survived by his wife Susan and
four children: Glenn, Laurie, Jenna, and Luke.
Tim's daughter, Laurie, said that he had suffered a lot at the end, but yet she said
that he had a beautiful death. He was cremated on December 17th. His family
would like to hold a ceremony in his honor in Esopus on August 15th. Those
interested in taking part in the ceremony are more than welcome to come. I am
sure that some of your readers are interested in this information. Susan's address
is: 103 Friern Barnet Lane, Whetstone N20 0x2 London, England.... (23
Thompson Place, Lynbrook, N. Y. 11563)
FROM BILL DESCHENE ('53): To celebrate the fact that we were finally able
to obtain a new ribbon for our ancient Olympia, I thought I'd baptize it with a
few thoughts that I had jotted down when I learned that Pete Cassidy had crossed
over to the other side. The kids at Staples took upon the task of locating the
ribbon the way young archeologists might go at a new dig. One fellow
commented on how he once saw his mother use a typewriter. Where did they go
to school anyway? Oh well, here's my take on Pete.
There is an inherent honesty in any person, whoever she or he may be, who can
fall asleep during a talk, a conversation, or better still, a homily. This is even
more endearing if such a one is wearing a rumpled clergy suit with a roman
collar stretched out in the manner of those of us who are not comfortable
wearing a tie. If the scene is accompanied by audible snoring, it's icing on the
cake. I was priviledged to be part of such a phenomenon while attending Mass at
St. Theresa's Church in Methuen with my mother and Brother Peter Cassidy. Of
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course, the snoring didn't last long as I was quickly jolted from my own wide
eyed reverie by my mother's elbow, and the alarm in her whisper, "Bill ...
Brother Peter ...?" I hated to do it but I gently nudged Pete, who responded to
this frantic state of affairs by smiling and running his hand back through his
grey-flecked red hair, the way I suspect he always combed it, and went back to
where he had just come from for what was left of the homily.
Pete made me feel good that day (as he often did) in the sense that I was no more
attentive than he, but like many in that quaint little church, I had mastered the art
of the reverent trance. Peter took us all off the hook.
Pete Cassidy was the kind of person who had a way of being a Brother that was
achievable for those of us who felt comfortable with aiming low. I mean this
with no disrespect. If any of you feel compelled to present me with figures
pointing to his greater spiritual achievements, I don't want to hear them. I need
to remember him as someone I was at ease with. (11 North Lowell Street,
Methuen, Massachusetts, 01844)
FROM BOB FALISEY ('65): I just received the February issue of Marists All,
and as always I stopped what I was doing to soak in the joy and spirit of old
friends and a past life filled with fond memories.
This Friday I will be the keynote speaker for a large insurance company in Los
Angeles. In past speeches I have often made reference to being a former Marist
Brother and to the great stories that have come out of Tyngsboro and life at
Marist College. As I read Marists All I was particularly fascinated to read Br.
John Colbert's story about Br. Louis Viateur. By coincidence a Brother Louie
story will take up at least fifteen minutes of my presentation this Friday. Looking
back on my life, I realize how blessed it has been and how much I owe the
training from places like Tyngsboro and Marist College.
This summer my wife and I, along with crew, will be racing our yacht in the
Transpac from Los Angeles to Hawaii. As we prepare for this life long dream, I
read a story of Br. Denis Hever, an old friend from years back, preparing to cross
the sea to Liberia. I can't help think of Robert Frost's poem of two paths in the
woods.
Recently it was my joy to be called by another former Monk of Mary. He was
downsized; at this writing I believe I have been instrumental in getting him a
new and significantly improved job. It's not missionary work in Africa, but it is
my small contribution. (529 Washington Blvd., Marino del Rey, Ca. 90292; 800-
965-7574, ex 108)
THE MARIST FAMILY INSTITUTE OF SPIRITUALITY
July 8, 9, 10, 11 - Marist College
Luke 24:13-32 "On the Christian Journey"
The Marist Family Institute of Spirituality invites all members of the Marist
family to its fifth gathering. This extended weekend of community experience,
prayer, presentation, seminar, and liturgy strives to bring together all those who
wish to explore a Catholic Christian spirituality steeped in Marist tradition.
In this year of Marcellin Champagnat's rise to sainthood we offer the opportunity
for all in the Marist family to share insights concerning our Christian Journey in
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the light of the story of Emmaus as recorded in Luke's version of the Good
News.
The planning team has sought to bring together several very special people to
share their gifts with the participants. Rev. Owen Lafferty will be the celebrant
for our liturgy. Presentations by Martin Lang, Larry Keogh, Owen Lafferty,
Francis Sheridan, Catherine Cherry, and Sue Callahan will offer insights on our
theme.Small group seminars will be led by team members. Participants at the
canonization of the Founder will share their experiences.
Consider making your own journey to Marist College in early July. Your reason
for coming may be to renew old acquaintances, or to complete some unfinished
business, or to flee everyday routine and seek solace in retreat, or to explore
intimately and personally the meaning of your own spirituality. Whatever the
reason, you will feel welcome as you join others on the Journey. Room and
board for the weekend is $200 a person. Registration begins at 4:30 p.m. on
Thursday, July 8th, followed by dinner. The program ends Sunday, July 11th,
after lunch. To make a commitment, contact VINCE POISELLA at 24
BROOKLYN MOUNTAIN ROAD, HOPATCONG, NEW JERSEY, 07843, or
phone: 973-398-5477 BY JUNE 15TH (vtpoisella@yahoo.com)
Those who have participated over the last four years, as well as others who
indicate their interest in joining us, will receive a mailing with further details and
an agenda.
Feel free to contact planning team members for questions or comments: Larry
and Jan Keogh: 815-838-1570....Ray Landry: 978-664-2248....Barney and Anne
Sheridan: 212-529-2257.... Br. Charles Marcellin: 718-441-2100....Jack and
Anne Duggan: 516-997-6547 Helen Tobin: 973-335-3758...David and Judy
Kammer: 207-362-5495..... Br. Hugh Turley: 773-881-5343
FROM BR. DENIS HEVER ('64): The Brothers in Wheeling are planning to
celebrate the canonization of Father Champagnat on Sunday, June 13th, at 3 p.m.
at the Cathedral with Mass and reception. We will invite alumni from the
Brothers' earlier teaching days here, as well as the surviving Brothers who were
here. We would also like to invite as many former Brothers who live close by.
We have a list of every Brother who ever taught at Central Catholic. The list
needs to be updated to see where those surviving now live. We need plenty of
help to get the word out. Could you please send addresses. (3705 Eoff Street,
Wheeling, Wv. 26003; maristwv@aol.com; 304-242-3618)
DECEASED:
Br. Athanatius Norbert Cote ('30) died at the age of 87 in a nursing home in
Miami on January 8th.
Br. Rudolph Eugene (Alcide) Ouellette died February 26th in a nursing home in
Lawrence at the age of 77.
Br. Michael Driscoll ('64) died of a massive heart attack on February 17th while
on winter break with friends in Boynton Beach, Florida; he was 52.
We also have word of the deaths of Tom O'Donnell ('48), Ed Miles ('55), and
Tim Dooley ('60). There is word about the latter two elsewhere in this issue of
the newsletter.
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Late word: Br. Denis Buckley died April 29th at the Mount following a stroke.
Prayer.
FROM BR. HUGH TURLEY ('54): I received news of the March 7th death of
Edward Miles (George Abel '54). Ed's wife Andrina requested that notice be
given to Marists All readers. Ed declined extensive chemotherapy in favor of a
higher quality of life with his wife and three children. He designed his own
requiem liturgy. In lieu of flowers Andrina told me that Ed wanted any memorial
gifts to be made to the Marist Brothers Retirement Fund.
FROM ANDRINA MILES: Edward James Miles was born August 26, 1935 and
was raised in the Parkchester area of the Bronx. He attended Cardinal Hayes
High and Marist preparatory schools, completing Marist College around 1957.
He has many humorous tales of helping with the "farming" chores (quite an
experience for a city boy) and tales of working on the construction of some of
the new buildings. He has many fond memories of his fellow "brothers" and has
continued friendships with a number of them.
Ed found that the religious life was not to be a long-term commitment for him
and left the brothers in 1959. In 1960 he took a position teaching at Lincoln. Hall
in Somers, New York. He married Andrina Logan in 1961. Ed obtained his
Masters Degree from Syracuse University. From 1962 to 1988 he taught biology
at Ardsley High in Ardsley, New York. During that time his family grew to
include three children: twins Edward and Brendan and a daughter Lyn. When Ed
retired in 1988, the family moved to San Diego. Ed loved living in the land of
sunshine and volunteered teaching at one of the Indian schools.
After a number of doctor visits last October it was determined that Ed had cancer
involving the esophagus and liver. The prognosis was not good, but Ed stayed
optimistic for everyone's sake, worrying more about those he might be leaving
than he did about himself. His spiritual life - always good - was even more so.
He cherished the gift of time to prepare for his death. While the ultimate miracle
was not to be, Ed truly appreciated what he called the "little miracles" - things
would just work out "coincidentally" - calls from friends of long ago - wonderful
people from our new parish who helped during the last days. As one friend put
it, "Ed was a lesson in courage and class; he will long be remembered for his
consideration and devotion to others." (3921 Lorenzo Court, Oceanside,
California, 92057)
EDITOR'S NOTE: After expenses of the present issue we will have a balance
for two more issues. When you send financial help, please make the checks
payable to one of the editors shown below, not to the name of the newsletter. Of
the 510 addresses on our mailing list 290 people have given of themselves by
sharing their thoughts and stories of their lives. We look forward to reconnecting
with many other fondly remembered friends. Write to ...
GUS Nolan, 50 South Randolph Ave., Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601-5152;
gusnolan@aol.com
David Kammer, R.R. 1 - Box 3300, Smithfield, Me. 04978-9517 (May thru mid-
September)
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ISSUE # 48
May 1999
FROM JEPTHA LANNING ('49) - our "reporter on assignment!"
Rome, Sunday, April 18, 1999
THE CANONIZATION OF SAINT MARCELLIN CHAMPAGNAT
Joan and I awoke to uncertain weather at Hotel Pisana Palace on the outskirts of
Rome. Clouds were moving rapidly across the sun on a cool spring morning
giving little clue if the day were to be rainy or sunny. We hustled down to
breakfast and then called a taxi for our journey into the city. After a fast twenty
minute ride we joined many thousands of pilgrims slowly moving into St. Peter's
Square, many bedecked in different colored scarves in honor of Saint Marcellin,
Saint John Calabria, founder of the Poor Servants of Divine Providence who
died in 1954, and Saint Agostina Livia Pietrantoni, a Sister of Charity, murdered
in 1894 by one of her hospital patients.
Clutching our yellow tickets of invitation, we found seats in the last row of
Section 1. We were some fifty yards in front of the obelisk. Before us on the
front of the Basilica were large pictures of the saints: St. Marcellin in the middle,
flanked by St. John on the left and St. Agostina on the right. As we looked about,
we noticed a number of people from Brazil, many from Mexico, some from
Italy, and right behind us in Section 3 delegations from Puerto Rico and Cuba.
What a thrill to hear these groups chanting MAR-SAY-LEE-NO! MAR-SAY-
LEE-NO! An atmosphere of joy, laughter and good fellowship prevailed.
About 10 a.m. to loud applause the Holy Father took his place upon a white,
throne-like chair under a large, red canopy. Mass began with the choir singing
Jubilate Deo, followed by the Pope acknowledging the new saints. Then came
the rite of canonization with the Prefect of the Congregation of the Saints asking
the Holy Father to enroll Saints Marcellin, John, and Agostina in the catalogue
of the Saints. The choir chanted the litany of the Saints, with the assembled
thousands replying "Ora pro nobis." The Holy Father solemnly pronounced the
formula of Canonization, replying to the request of the Prefect with the word:
"Decernimus. "
The chant of the Mass of the Angels brought back so many memories to this
reporter of High Masses long past and of so many of our deceased brothers now
celebrating this momentous occasion in heaven. Our eyes were wet and it was an
effort to swallow as we stood, Joan and I, in that square surrounded by those
thousands of people representing the church universal celebrating this day so
often prayed for. Joan, a former Daughter of Wisdom, fully appreciated my
feelings on this Marian Day. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, the
gospel of the day, our hearts were burning within. During the solemn part of the
Mass we prayed for all Marists, living and dead, near and far.
The Zenit News Agency, in its edited version of the Pope's homily, noted that
"St. Marcellin announced the Gospel with an ardent heart. He was sensitive to
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the spiritual and educational needs of his time, especially the prevailing religious
ignorance and abandonment that youth were experiencing." The Pope proposed
St. Marcellin as "a model for all parents and educators to help them look upon
youth with hope, to encourage them with total love, which will make a true
human, moral, and spiritual formation possible."
From time to time some rain fell. However, we will never forget the kiss of
peace, exchanging smiles and handshakes and greetings with so many people in
different languages. Close upon noon the service was near an end. The choir
sang the Regina Coeli and the Holy Father gave the final blessing. The Mass of
Canonization was over.
Swiss Guards appeared at our barricade. A crush of people engulfed us and
pushed us against the railing. Soon a small jeep-like car made its way between
Sections 1 and 3. And there he was, Pope John Paul II, for an instant a few feet
away.
As we made our way out of St. Peter's Square we met Brothers Adolph Leo and
Joseph Belanger. The sun was now shining brightly, the clouds were gone as we
made our way down Via Della Conciliazione. We stopped at Ristorante
Pierdonati for a Roman lunch, accompanied by a bottle of Frascati.
And so, in spite of our two-day delay at the start of our journey from Miami. to
Rome, with the attendant postponements, cancellation of flights, and the late
arriving luggage, the trip was all worth it. Now tucked away in our memory
banks, we truly have a "Day to Remember." (2200 South Ocean Blvd., Delray
Beach, 33483)
LIBERIA :
taken from correspondence from Br. Martin Ruane and Br. Denis Hever
The mission in Liberia was started in 1986 by Leo Shea, Lucian Duguay, and
Dave Cooney. Civil war broke out in 1989 and continued until 1996. During the
war several young Liberians requested to become Marist Brothers; six are now
professed. In 1996 due to illness and political instability the Brothers left the
country.
Leo Shea, now Esopus provincial, Marty Ruane, Denis Hever, and Alfred
George returned to Morovia February 24th to begin the re-foundation. of the
mission. What they noticed first was the general devastation, not much
reconstruction, and a general serious attitude of the people who in an earlier day
were happy, smiling, and always willing to greet. The following day the Brothers
met with three of the young Liberian Brothers who had returned home from
South Africa. Their lives and experiences over the past ten years had matured
them significantly. They were eager to help their people. Their first concern was
prayer life, which greatly enheartened those from the U.S.
The Archbishop of Morovia had kept his bargain with the Brothers. Their house
is fully repaired, completely painted, bright and spacious. It is just off a main
road in a busy area, but likely to be hot and noisy. It is not far from the local
parish. In the attached school the three young Brothers - Augustine Martin,
Alfred Gipli, and George Werner - will eventually be assigned to teach religion.
Over the course of four or five days the Brothers met with many other
missionaries to get a read on the situation in Morovia. Marty Ruane and Alfred
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George remain in Liberia working with the three young Brothers to furnish the
house, from scratch - no small task in view o£ the need to purchase vehicle and
generator as well as furniture, dishes, utensils, and supplies. In time a little
chapel will be furnished. Steve Minogue and John McDonnell will be on hand
for several months this sumer and fall to help out.
The Brothers return to Liberia with great hopes and an awareness of the very
fragile nature of the political situation. Knowing that they are supported with
prayer is a great encouragement.
There is no reliable postal system in or out of the country at present; whatever
mail is sent is opened in pursuit of cash. However, Denis Hever is back in the
states until the end of August. He is at 3705 Eoff Street, Wheeling, Wv. 26003;
304-232-3618.
FROM JOHN (James Austin) McALEER ('42): I left the order in October, 1957,
after 16 years as a Marist. This is my first. message to Marists All, due only to
my ignorance of its existence until a few weeks ago. The November 1995 issue
was mailed to me by my sister-in-law, Marge McAleer, who happens to be the
sister of Steve (Hugh Ephrem) Sheridan ('42). My brother Pat met Marge on a
fateful visiting Sunday at the Pksie novitiate in the early forties. My phone call
to David Kammer of my group resulted in a flow of 45 previous issues,
approximately 300,000 words! Those amazing chronicles have been absorbing
my attention. (Vaguely I hear: "Yoo-hoo, it's me. Yoo-hoo., it's your wife, dear'
Yoo-hoo, the house is on fire!"
I am deeply moved by the honesty and openness evident in the GMC-FMS
communications. It's a far cry from the attitudes that seemed to exist when I got
my dispensation in the fall of 1957. It is heartwarming to see in Marists All a
real-life demonstration of the phrase about the first Brothers: "See how they love
one another." The lists of deaths, anniversaries, and celebrations, and the letters
themselves, bring back so many fond memories. There are few communities of
my time that I did not call home: Pksie novitiate and scholasticate '41-'44;
Lawrence '44-'48; St. Agnes '48-'50 (student '35-'39); Cardinal Hayes '50-'52;
Wheeling '52-'53; St. Ann is '53-'55; Marist, Bayonne '55-'56; St. Paul-Trois-
Chateaux '56-'57; Juniorate, Esopus '57, plus occasional summers at Camp
Marist and Tyngsboro.
When I left at age 35, I accepted a job as associate editor at the Catholic
University of America Press publishing scholarly books and textbooks. In 1955 I
met Ruth an R.N. at a St. Patrick's Day dance sponsored by the Knights of
Columbus. We were married in October of that year. In the next two years Ruth
gave birth to Mary Catherine and then Sean. Time to head for a more generous
employer in the Big Apple! I got a job at Doubleday for a short stay, then settled
in at Harcourt Brace from '61 to '65. While there, three special things occurred:
Our youngest Thom was born; I was promoted from a textbook editor to
managing editor of the textbook division; I received the grace at the age of 40 to
accept the fact that I was an alcoholic and needed AA.
There were no dramatic losses, financial or otherwise, but I was dying inside. I
was a hollow man. Looking back, I could see that the process of this negative
spiritual illness had begun long before I left the order. I thank God for the gift of
AA every day of my life.
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On January 15th I celebrated 36 years off the sauce. I still go to AA meetings
and currently sponsor (mentor) several young men. If I had paid half as much
attention to the Rule in the old days as I've paid to the 12 steps and 12 traditions
of AA, I might have become the first canonized American brother!
In 1966, still trying to play catch-up in the marketplace, I moved to Chicagoland
and worked in editorial management for Harper and Row and then in 1965 for
Scott Foresman. The latter firm made me an officer of the company one year and
fired me the next, 1971. It was all very civilized and the severance settlement
was generous. I was 49 years old and was ready to lower the curtain on 30 years
of education and educational publishing. After serious consideration of stock
brokerage, insurance, and other kinds of employment, I chose the real estate
business. No more corporate perks, no paid medical insurance, no taxes
deducted, no pension plan, no paid vacation. It was scary at first, but I worked
hard, things fell into place, and God provided. I did well in that business for 14
years.
In 1954 I was 62. My children had as much education as they thought they
wanted or needed and were financially on their own. Ruth gave me a green light
to do something I had wanted to do for a long time. I entered a year-long
program at Grant Hospital in Chicago to be one certified as an alcohol and drug
therapist. I did internship at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston; then they hired me
as a full-time counselor in their outpatient program. A year later I joined the
inpatient staff of the substance abuse program at a hospital in Waukegan. Being
a case manager for up to six patients over a three or four week stay was the
hardest and most demanding work I've ever done, but I think it was the most
satisfying work of my life. After eight years at that work and following my
second open-heart surgery I retired in 1993 at the age of 71.
Meanwhile, Ruth had been on her own journey. Back in the sixties she was one
of the pioneers introducing Lamaze childbirth education to the North Shore of
Chicagoland. She went back to school to complete her BA and then got an MA
in psychology. She resumed her nursing career and founded the first hospice at
Lake Forest Hospital. In 1984 her reception into the Episcopal Church triggered
quite a noticeable deepening of her spirituality. Her work with the dying, with
their families, and with her hospice volunteers developed into a real ministry.
Eventually she felt a call to the priesthood that wouldn't go away. With
encouragement from me and others she submitted herself to the rather
formidable discernment process and ultimately went to Seabury Western
Theology Seminary in Evanston, was ordained a priest in December of 1992,
and set about to look for a job. (The Episcopal system requires priests to apply
and compete for positions and to be "called" by the vestry of the particular
parish.)
Ruth's work took us to Detroit in 1993, just as I retired. I went along as Ruth's
spear-carrier. After all, she had followed me around the country earlier; now it
was my turn. Ruth founded yet another hospice in Detroit and did a lot of parish
work. When the hospice was up and running, we decided to move to the Kansas
City area to be near our children: son Thom (36), daughter Mary (39) and her
husband John, grandchildren Hannah (6) and Matthew (9). Our son Sean (38)
lives in Chicago with his wife Teresa.
Ruth is currently rector o£ Grace Episcopal Church in nearby Ottawa, Kansas. I
have supported her at every step of her journey. It has been a marvelous and
gracefilled experience for me. Even though my laundry list of disagreements
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with the Vatican seems to get longer each year, I'm very much in communion
with the Roman church and get much joy from the practice of my faith. The
NCR is an important fixture in my life. I belong to Pax Christi and to Call to
Action.
I've had a fair amount of parish involvement. I worked RCIA for a number of
years. I've been part of Remembering Church. In recent years I've been more
interested in justice and peace activities. I've organized workshops on non-
violence and welfare reform from a Gospel point of view. I've also marched
against Desert Storm and protested against missile makers and gun dealers. A lot
of my colleagues have gone to jail.
It would be foolish for me to try to deny the influence of my 16 years as a Marist
on my present spirituality. That humility, simplicity, and modesty still loom as
highly desirable traits. The spirit of poverty and the concept of detachment from
material things cling like Velcro and seem to interfere with serious pursuit of
sybaritic pleasure. If you add 12 step spirituality, a measure of creation theology
out of Meister Eckhart and Matthew Fox, and a lot of directed Jesuit retreats,
you have some of the stuff that has been fueling my own engine for a long time.
I developed cancer two years ago, a lymphoma affecting some vertebrae and
ribs. The chemotherapy was worse then the cancer, but it did the job. I've had
clear CT scans for a year and a half. Thank God. They tell me I have a 50/50
chance of no recurrence. Thanks for letting me be a part of Marists All. Is life a
magnificent mystery or what!
Thanks for sending the proposed copy of my letter for Marists All. I understand
the need to trim the content, like with Sergeant Friday, "It's only the facts,
Mam!" After all my years of editing, it's only fair that some of my prose should
be trimmed. I think what you guys are doing is a fantastic ministry. I am grateful
for it. (8700 Metcalf #102, Overland Park, Ks. 66212-2040)
FROM PAT KIELTY ('65): I'm finishing off the third and last hour of Saturday
school and am ready to scream. It seems like a perfect time to write to Marists
All. Numbers, numbers: 52 years old, 31 years teaching (15 English, 16 math , 3
years of math at new school in Clarksville, Maryland, 25 years of wedded bliss,
2 children 19 & 22, 3 years from "working retirement," 8 year old Corgi, 22
years in Maryland, 244 pounds, and $0.00 in savings.
My oldest daughter Justine is finishing her bachelor's and will graduate from,
Frostburg State University in western Maryland this May. Her degree is in mass
communications, but I haven't a clue what she plans to do besides move back
home. I'm braced for the return and hope it will be short. Do they really get jobs
and move out?
Erin, my younger daughter, also attends Frostburg - theatre major. Erin will
attend Mary Immaculate College in Limerick, Ireland, next semester. This is a
great opportunity. I've become a bit more Irish in the years since St. Helena's.
Two trips to the Emerald Isle, Irish folk music collection, many great Irish films.
When I was younger I saw only the worst of the Irish drunkenness and
meanness.I have a better perspective on things now with a lot of pridein my
ancestry. Anne and I are planning to visit Erin in Ireland over the spring
vacation. We're renting a car and staying with families (B & B) in the northern
part of Ireland, perhaps even into Northern Ireland.
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Anne has been an eighthgrade English teacher in Ellicott City since 1977.
Additionally, she is the team leader for an inter-disciplinary team. She loves her
job after 33 years, twentyone at the same school. Though Anne and I have some
health problems (diabetes, high blood pressure), we feel fine.
Me? Anxious to retire. After 30 plus years anything gets old. In fact, I've never
left school since I ran off to Miss Kenny and her kindergarten class at George
Washington School in West Hempstead 48 years ago. I figure that we'll retire
from the Howard County Public School System around the time Erin finishes
college.The day we retire is the day we're planning to move to Florida, Tampa
perhaps. Wherever the jobs are. Our Maryland early retirement benefit sucks, so
we'll have to work. That's appealing - new place, new job. I'd love to hear from
others who have retired from teaching and have changed to new occupations.
The process is a bit daunting, so I'm open to advice.
I have read the letters sent by others to this newsletter and what does impress me
most is each person's spirituality. Are there any pagans like me out there? Pagan
is too strong, but uninvolved might be better. Occasionally I do rally, but for the
most part I'm one of those "fallen away" Catholics. I feel that I should be a more
spiritual person, but ... Any thoughts?
Regards to all the folks I met in Esopus, Poughkeepsie, and the Bronx during the
sixties. I'd love to hear from each of you either personally or through Marists
All. (10140 Tanfield Court, Ellicott City, Maryland, 21042; 410-461-7435)
ANNUAL
GMC PICNIC:
September 18th
FROM BR. DENIS BUCKLEY ('36): I want to thank you and anyone else who
has been sending Marists All to me. I must confess that the greater majority of
the names are unknown to me, for I left the country in 1950 for my missionary
work in the Philippines. However, I find each copy very interesting to read, and I
am happy when at times I recognize a name that I know. Be assured that I pass
the newsletter on to the men living here. They certainly enjoy it as I do.
Incidentally, this house in Miami was a gift from the former owner and resident,
Mr. Henri Jubinville, who died more than a year ago. I was sent here to make the
house livable for the Brothers. I've been here for a year come April, when I shall
be re-assigned to Mt. St. Michael. Again, I wish to express my warm thanks and
want you to be assured that you and your work on Marists All will be daily
remembered in my prayers. Yours in Mary. 8850 S.W. 154th Terrace, Miami, F1.
33157; 305-232-1264)
FROM BRIAN HENRY DESILETS ('45): We are getting ready to attend the
first vows ceremony of our son with the CFR (Community of the Franciscans of
the Renewal). His novitiate was at their Friary in Harlem. He seems to be happy
with them. He will be coming home for a two week vacation and will then go to
his first assignment which we will find out on the day of his profession.
Our middle daughter Kathleen is a CPA and is assigned by Arthur Anderson as
an accountant at the corporate headquarters of the Avon Corporation. She is
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living with us and is putting money aside to buy a condo in Hoboken where the
jupees are going these days.
GUS, I didn't know that you had purchased a second home in Florida. More
power to you! We might visit you some day. Just now we can't get away from
home very easily. Kay's mother is getting older and she requires a lot of
attention, so we can't leave her without inconveniencing Kay's sister who would
have to take our place.
Thanks for all you have done to keep Marists All going. It has really generated
links with the past. (6 lake Oniad Drive, Wappingers Falls, New York, 12590)
FROM REV. BILL SEARS ('52): Living in my retirement years I don't do
anything exciting, so I haven't much to write about. I do enjoy relatively good
health in spite of heart problems that I developed in 1982. As I tell my Doc: "I
'm ready but the 'Boss' ain't!"
I offer Mass on a privateisland in an "all-faiths" chapel on Sunday. On the way
over from the mainland recently we ran. out of gas, and wouldn't you know I
forgot my Jesus shoes. Then I prayed to St. Marcellin and a tow showed up.
Most exciting thing that has happened recently. All's well that ...I'm rejoicing
that my "former boss" is being raised to the honors of the altar.I pray to him
regularly and never forget my Marist roots. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was
offered on Saturday, February 6th, for the intentions of all the staff of Marists
All. I really do enjoy reading every issue. Keep it rolling.
Ain't life great in Florida? Oneof these days when I get my --- in gear I'll get
over to the east coast of this paradise to see all "yeuse guys." Padre Bill Sears.
(1745 Padre Land #62, Englewood, Fl. 34223; 941-474-5217)
SENIOR" JUBILARIANS: 1999
50th:
Br. James Gaffney
Br. James Kearney
Br. Thomas Lee
Br. Bernard Nolan
Br. Francis Ryan
Br. Francis Thomas
Br. Patrick Tyrell
55th:
Br. John Francis Colbert
Br. Alphonse Louis Dubois
Br. Adolph Leo
Br. Edward Francis Vollmer
60th:
Br. Conan Vincent Dineen
Br. Joseph Teston
65th:
Br. Clement Legare
Br. Philip McEnaney
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70th:
Br. E. Michael Bernard
FROM TOM HOURICAN ('61): I am writing to let you know that Tim Dooley
died of cancer on December 9th, 1998. Tim and I were in the group of 1961, he
making his novitiate in Tyngsboro and I in Esopus; we graduated together from
the juniorate in June of 1959 and from Marist College in June of 1964.
Tim has lived in England since January of 1974.He was diagnosed with cancer
in late August. By the time the cancer was discovered it was inoperable. It had
spread from his stomach to his lungs and into his esophagus. I found out about
Tim's illness in late September and I went over to England to see him. I was
surprised to see that Tim had a book about the life of Marcellin Champagnat and
a copy of the Office. You see, Tim had met an elderly Marist Brother in England
a number of years earlier. When that Brother Wilfred found out about Tim's
illness, he went to see Tim and brought him the two books. I think the name of
the book about Champagnat was Strong Mind, Gentle Heart. It seemed so
strange to me to thumb through the old prayer book. I had not seen one in over
30 years; Tim said he used it frequently.
Tim seemed to be at peace with his situation.He was resigned to accepting the
will of God, yet he was determined to beat the cancer by prayer and will power.
The last day I saw him he tried to explain to me how the mind could overcome
the physical and how he was going to beat the cancer. He asked me to unite with
him, because he felt that it would be more effective if more than one mind was
acting as one. I told him that I would try, but I also had to tell him that I didn't
understand a lot of what he tried to explain to me. I talked to Tim three or four
times from early October until he died, and I got to appreciate the deep
spirituality that he had, some thing that was always there but that I never really
noticed. Tim died at home with his family. He is survived by his wife Susan and
four children: Glenn, Laurie, Jenna, and Luke.
Tim's daughter, Laurie, said that he had suffered a lot at the end, but yet she said
that he had a beautiful death. He was cremated on December 17th. His family
would like to hold a ceremony in his honor in Esopus on August 15th. Those
interested in taking part in the ceremony are more than welcome to come. I am
sure that some of your readers are interested in this information. Susan's address
is: 103 Friern Barnet Lane, Whetstone N20 0x2 London, England.... (23
Thompson Place, Lynbrook, N. Y. 11563)
FROM BILL DESCHENE ('53): To celebrate the fact that we were finally able
to obtain a new ribbon for our ancient Olympia, I thought I'd baptize it with a
few thoughts that I had jotted down when I learned that Pete Cassidy had crossed
over to the other side. The kids at Staples took upon the task of locating the
ribbon the way young archeologists might go at a new dig. One fellow
commented on how he once saw his mother use a typewriter. Where did they go
to school anyway? Oh well, here's my take on Pete.
There is an inherent honesty in any person, whoever she or he may be, who can
fall asleep during a talk, a conversation, or better still, a homily. This is even
more endearing if such a one is wearing a rumpled clergy suit with a roman
collar stretched out in the manner of those of us who are not comfortable
wearing a tie. If the scene is accompanied by audible snoring, it's icing on the
cake. I was priviledged to be part of such a phenomenon while attending Mass at
St. Theresa's Church in Methuen with my mother and Brother Peter Cassidy. Of
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course, the snoring didn't last long as I was quickly jolted from my own wide
eyed reverie by my mother's elbow, and the alarm in her whisper, "Bill ...
Brother Peter ...?" I hated to do it but I gently nudged Pete, who responded to
this frantic state of affairs by smiling and running his hand back through his
grey-flecked red hair, the way I suspect he always combed it, and went back to
where he had just come from for what was left of the homily.
Pete made me feel good that day (as he often did) in the sense that I was no more
attentive than he, but like many in that quaint little church, I had mastered the art
of the reverent trance. Peter took us all off the hook.
Pete Cassidy was the kind of person who had a way of being a Brother that was
achievable for those of us who felt comfortable with aiming low. I mean this
with no disrespect. If any of you feel compelled to present me with figures
pointing to his greater spiritual achievements, I don't want to hear them. I need
to remember him as someone I was at ease with. (11 North Lowell Street,
Methuen, Massachusetts, 01844)
FROM BOB FALISEY ('65): I just received the February issue of Marists All,
and as always I stopped what I was doing to soak in the joy and spirit of old
friends and a past life filled with fond memories.
This Friday I will be the keynote speaker for a large insurance company in Los
Angeles. In past speeches I have often made reference to being a former Marist
Brother and to the great stories that have come out of Tyngsboro and life at
Marist College. As I read Marists All I was particularly fascinated to read Br.
John Colbert's story about Br. Louis Viateur. By coincidence a Brother Louie
story will take up at least fifteen minutes of my presentation this Friday. Looking
back on my life, I realize how blessed it has been and how much I owe the
training from places like Tyngsboro and Marist College.
This summer my wife and I, along with crew, will be racing our yacht in the
Transpac from Los Angeles to Hawaii. As we prepare for this life long dream, I
read a story of Br. Denis Hever, an old friend from years back, preparing to cross
the sea to Liberia. I can't help think of Robert Frost's poem of two paths in the
woods.
Recently it was my joy to be called by another former Monk of Mary. He was
downsized; at this writing I believe I have been instrumental in getting him a
new and significantly improved job. It's not missionary work in Africa, but it is
my small contribution. (529 Washington Blvd., Marino del Rey, Ca. 90292; 800-
965-7574, ex 108)
THE MARIST FAMILY INSTITUTE OF SPIRITUALITY
July 8, 9, 10, 11 - Marist College
Luke 24:13-32 "On the Christian Journey"
The Marist Family Institute of Spirituality invites all members of the Marist
family to its fifth gathering. This extended weekend of community experience,
prayer, presentation, seminar, and liturgy strives to bring together all those who
wish to explore a Catholic Christian spirituality steeped in Marist tradition.
In this year of Marcellin Champagnat's rise to sainthood we offer the opportunity
for all in the Marist family to share insights concerning our Christian Journey in
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the light of the story of Emmaus as recorded in Luke's version of the Good
News.
The planning team has sought to bring together several very special people to
share their gifts with the participants. Rev. Owen Lafferty will be the celebrant
for our liturgy. Presentations by Martin Lang, Larry Keogh, Owen Lafferty,
Francis Sheridan, Catherine Cherry, and Sue Callahan will offer insights on our
theme.Small group seminars will be led by team members. Participants at the
canonization of the Founder will share their experiences.
Consider making your own journey to Marist College in early July. Your reason
for coming may be to renew old acquaintances, or to complete some unfinished
business, or to flee everyday routine and seek solace in retreat, or to explore
intimately and personally the meaning of your own spirituality. Whatever the
reason, you will feel welcome as you join others on the Journey. Room and
board for the weekend is $200 a person. Registration begins at 4:30 p.m. on
Thursday, July 8th, followed by dinner. The program ends Sunday, July 11th,
after lunch. To make a commitment, contact VINCE POISELLA at 24
BROOKLYN MOUNTAIN ROAD, HOPATCONG, NEW JERSEY, 07843, or
phone: 973-398-5477 BY JUNE 15TH (vtpoisella@yahoo.com)
Those who have participated over the last four years, as well as others who
indicate their interest in joining us, will receive a mailing with further details and
an agenda.
Feel free to contact planning team members for questions or comments: Larry
and Jan Keogh: 815-838-1570....Ray Landry: 978-664-2248....Barney and Anne
Sheridan: 212-529-2257.... Br. Charles Marcellin: 718-441-2100....Jack and
Anne Duggan: 516-997-6547 Helen Tobin: 973-335-3758...David and Judy
Kammer: 207-362-5495..... Br. Hugh Turley: 773-881-5343
FROM BR. DENIS HEVER ('64): The Brothers in Wheeling are planning to
celebrate the canonization of Father Champagnat on Sunday, June 13th, at 3 p.m.
at the Cathedral with Mass and reception. We will invite alumni from the
Brothers' earlier teaching days here, as well as the surviving Brothers who were
here. We would also like to invite as many former Brothers who live close by.
We have a list of every Brother who ever taught at Central Catholic. The list
needs to be updated to see where those surviving now live. We need plenty of
help to get the word out. Could you please send addresses. (3705 Eoff Street,
Wheeling, Wv. 26003; maristwv@aol.com; 304-242-3618)
DECEASED:
Br. Athanatius Norbert Cote ('30) died at the age of 87 in a nursing home in
Miami on January 8th.
Br. Rudolph Eugene (Alcide) Ouellette died February 26th in a nursing home in
Lawrence at the age of 77.
Br. Michael Driscoll ('64) died of a massive heart attack on February 17th while
on winter break with friends in Boynton Beach, Florida; he was 52.
We also have word of the deaths of Tom O'Donnell ('48), Ed Miles ('55), and
Tim Dooley ('60). There is word about the latter two elsewhere in this issue of
the newsletter.
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Late word: Br. Denis Buckley died April 29th at the Mount following a stroke.
Prayer.
FROM BR. HUGH TURLEY ('54): I received news of the March 7th death of
Edward Miles (George Abel '54). Ed's wife Andrina requested that notice be
given to Marists All readers. Ed declined extensive chemotherapy in favor of a
higher quality of life with his wife and three children. He designed his own
requiem liturgy. In lieu of flowers Andrina told me that Ed wanted any memorial
gifts to be made to the Marist Brothers Retirement Fund.
FROM ANDRINA MILES: Edward James Miles was born August 26, 1935 and
was raised in the Parkchester area of the Bronx. He attended Cardinal Hayes
High and Marist preparatory schools, completing Marist College around 1957.
He has many humorous tales of helping with the "farming" chores (quite an
experience for a city boy) and tales of working on the construction of some of
the new buildings. He has many fond memories of his fellow "brothers" and has
continued friendships with a number of them.
Ed found that the religious life was not to be a long-term commitment for him
and left the brothers in 1959. In 1960 he took a position teaching at Lincoln. Hall
in Somers, New York. He married Andrina Logan in 1961. Ed obtained his
Masters Degree from Syracuse University. From 1962 to 1988 he taught biology
at Ardsley High in Ardsley, New York. During that time his family grew to
include three children: twins Edward and Brendan and a daughter Lyn. When Ed
retired in 1988, the family moved to San Diego. Ed loved living in the land of
sunshine and volunteered teaching at one of the Indian schools.
After a number of doctor visits last October it was determined that Ed had cancer
involving the esophagus and liver. The prognosis was not good, but Ed stayed
optimistic for everyone's sake, worrying more about those he might be leaving
than he did about himself. His spiritual life - always good - was even more so.
He cherished the gift of time to prepare for his death. While the ultimate miracle
was not to be, Ed truly appreciated what he called the "little miracles" - things
would just work out "coincidentally" - calls from friends of long ago - wonderful
people from our new parish who helped during the last days. As one friend put
it, "Ed was a lesson in courage and class; he will long be remembered for his
consideration and devotion to others." (3921 Lorenzo Court, Oceanside,
California, 92057)
EDITOR'S NOTE: After expenses of the present issue we will have a balance
for two more issues. When you send financial help, please make the checks
payable to one of the editors shown below, not to the name of the newsletter. Of
the 510 addresses on our mailing list 290 people have given of themselves by
sharing their thoughts and stories of their lives. We look forward to reconnecting
with many other fondly remembered friends. Write to ...
GUS Nolan, 50 South Randolph Ave., Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601-5152;
gusnolan@aol.com
David Kammer, R.R. 1 - Box 3300, Smithfield, Me. 04978-9517 (May thru mid-
September)