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ISSUE # 32
August 1995
FROM BR. SEAN SAMMON ('67): This note is long overdue, For quite some
time now I've been meaning to write to thank you for the wonderful work you're
doing in publishing Marists All regularly. I appreciate also the gentle way you
coax everyone to make a written contribution. I enjoy reading the newsletter;
since my move to Rome a little over a year ago, I'm enjoying the stories from
folks even more. Each issue brings back so many fond memories of Cold Spring,
Tyngsboro, and Lafayette Street, of our "intentional" communities in Riverdale
and in East Harlem, and later of St. Agnes, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
A number of folks have asked me how I came through my surgery for a brain
tumor last year. Enclosed is a short article I wrote one evening a month after the
procedure was completed. I sent it along to Review for Religious for publication.
Surprisingly, I've gotten more reaction to this article than to anything I've written
in the last 15 years. I remember well the evening I put it together. Pat McNamara
and I had had a final "transfer" meeting regarding his taking up the work as
Provincial. Afterwards we headed to lower Manhattan for some supper, after
which I caught Metro North back to Pelham some time near one in the morning.
Arriving home, I was in a mood to write, so I stayed up most of the early
morning hours typing away at the computer. John Nash and Gerry Doherty got
up at various times during the night; first, to question my sanity and, then, to
serve as editorial advisers on the piece. The article pretty much captures the
experience of the surgery and recovery up to April of 1994.
I've just completed a second article entitled "Mid-Life Mortalities" which fills in
some of the journey since the first article. I've sent that along to the "About
Men" column of the New York Times for consideration. I thought, however, that
the enclosed might answer the questions that folks have about my surgery or my
state of mind and body. (See "Midlife Tumor, Experience in the Lord" on later
pagge)
GMC PICNIC
MOUNT ST. MICHAEL
SEPTEMBER 16th
Noon to 5: Saturday
GMC PICNIC: Looking forward to seeing many of you at the annual Greater
Marist Community picnic to be held again this year at Mt. St. Michael in the
Bronx, Nereid and Murdock Avenues, near the Mt. Vernon border. The gathering
will be on Saturday, September 16th, from noon to 5 p.m. Indoor facilities are
available in case of rain. Come with spouse and children or come alone. Bring
your own beverage and a pot-luck dish for a shared meal. All Brothers are most
welcome to join in. Thanks to the director and community of the Mount for
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welcoming us. We have been having this picnic each year on the second
Saturday after labor Day; mark Saturday, September 16th, on your calendar!
FROM BOB (Robert Thomas) TOOLE ('54): Many thanks to Larry Keogh and
his wife Jan and to Brothers Hugh Turley and Dennis Dunne for their efforts in
planning and executing the first Marist retreat/reunion held at Marist College
June 30th to July 2nd, to pray together, worship, share, and also laugh (mostly
laugh, I think). The experience renewed the greater Marist spirit in all of us.
Thanks also to Brother Len Voegtle for his focused presentation and his
comments on Marcellin Champagnat (2778 Wilson Ave., Bellmore, N. Y. 11710)
FROM MICHAEL (Michael Vincent) KELLY ('50): I just received the May
issue of Marists All. Thanks for your continuing efforts to bring the "good news"
to all of us. We are now in our fourth year in Atlanta, which will soon be a
record as we have a reputation for moving every few years. Atlanta and Georgia
Tech continue to be exciting places to be. The last I heard there was $340 million
in construction on campus in anticipation of the 1996 Olympics. Construction
throughout the city is most evident during rush hours because of all the day and
night building.
We have had the good fortune to be in regular contact with Rick Jambor and his
wife, who managed to avoid many of the problems that devastated the Kobe area
in Japan. They are now neighbors of Pat Gallagher and his wife in the Blue
Ridge Mountains of Virginia. In the mountains, that means that their respective
retreats are separated by no more than 30 miles of pasture!
Since we moved here it has become much easier for us to have family reunions.
In fact, in a way we have been running a half-way house. Ten members of our
family have joined us, literally. Now most of them have moved into their own
places. At this point there are only six of us, including my daughter who is at the
University of Hartford. You are welcome to occupy any empty room, but please
call to be sure roams continue to be vacant.
I switched jobs at Georgia Tech. I am working in the School of Management,
Public Policy, and International Affairs, where I will teach management courses.
I recently did a study for industry on what managers need to know to be effective
in the next millennium. Wait until the industry people read what they paid for; it
was sent out this week. I selected the period beyond 2010, thinking that I could
hardly be wrong in 1995! Actually, it was a great learning experience.
In the report I recommend that among other things they focus on their core
values: integrity, honesty, trust, etc. This because future information technology
will permit immediate worldwide broadcasting of their "sins" to the detriment of
their corporate image. It is interesting to think that the world may actually
become a better place to live - for good business reasons. Perhaps the prediction
of Arnold Toynbee may come to pass:
"Our age will be remembered not for its terrifying crimes or its
astonishing inventions but because it is the first generation since the
dawn of history in which mankind dared to believe it practical to
make the benefits of civilization available to the whole human race."
Reading Marists All, it is quite evident that the Marist family has been doing its
share to make the world a better place to live. Be well and God bless y'all. (575
Mt. Vernon Highway N.W., Atlanta, Georgia, 30327; 404-255-5017)
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ESOPUS PROVINCE CHAPTER MEETS:
The Chapter of the Esopus Province met memorial weekend to elect a new
Provincial Council. The gathering opened under the direction of Brother John
Klein ('66), provincial. The delegates elected Brother Leo Shea ('52) to be the
full-time vice provincial. Serving as provincial councilors for the next three
years will be Br. Stephen Schlitte ('77), Br. Vincent Damian ('52), Br. John
McDonnell ('59), Br. John Venturella ('81), and Br. Robert Clark ('75). With the
appointment of Br. Leo Shea, the Province of Poughkeepsie has asked for names
of Brothers who might assume the position of president of Our Lady of Lourdes
High School, Poughkeepsie, and of the Marist Duchess Educational Park
Project. The Poughkeepsie Leadership Team has thanked Br. Leo and his Esopus
Province for "charismatic and dedicated leadership through the past two years.
Leo has lent a wonderful confidence and direction to the establishment of our
project; we know he will be missed both in our ministry and in the Brothers'
communities of the area."
(from Newsnotes, June 1995, Poughkeepsie Province leadership Team)
FROM RICHARD (Anthony Dominic) JAMBOR ('50): I envy my children as
they leaf through alumni bulletins searching for news about their old classmates.
And yet for so long you have been sharing news of our old classmates for all of
us. Each time Marists All arrives I open the envelope eagerly to see what my
friends, no, my brothers are up to. How can I ever thank you!
In the Brothers' chapel here in Kobe last Sunday, Br. John Bird asked me to do
the first reading, and what was that reading but the same one we used to sing on
July 26th about how "the Lord is my inheritance, my portion and my cup." It
brought back memories, happy ones.
Where to begin? After leaving the Brothers, I taught in Marist Brothers
International School here for over ten years. That position I owe to Mattis
Callanan who understood me and put up with my doubts and tantrums. Now that
he is ill, I think it's time I acknowledge what I owe him! (Matt is taking radiation
treatments after his surgery in San Francisco. Br. Charles Filiatrault cared for
Matt for one month; now Br. Patrick Tyrell is assisting with travel and treatment.
Matt will move to a Miami community in late July.)
During my time in Kobe I met and married my dear Kinuko who gave me her
two Japanese children as wedding presents, Noriko our daughter and Takeo our
elder son. Then we were blessed with Kenneth, now twenty-two. All three
children are living in the States, Noriko employed as a pharmacist; she is
married to a wonderful young man. Takeo is working in a Walmart near the
home of his sister. Kenneth just graduated from VMI and is now in the Air
Force.
For the past twelve years I have been teaching at Kobe Shoin Women's
University.I completed a joint translation from the Japanese, a copy of which I
sent to Marist College; at present I am earnestly seeking a publisher for another
translation.
I must add that the inspired teaching of Brothers Stephen Urban, Giles Keogh,
and George Robert opened the door to foreign languages for me. Richie Foy
used to compare me to Connally's Mister Blue. I don't know about that, but what
with my life in the Brothers and with what has taken place after, I have to say
that I've been lucky and I count myself so blessed.
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I have been impressed with the work of the Brothers here in Kobe. The
international school was started by European monks expelled from Communist
China. Those of us who lived with them knew them as men of faith, and they
were patient with our youthful foibles. I revere their memory even now. Pat
Tyrell has just returned to the States after 38 years, having started and
administered the first Marist school for Japanese in Kumamoto. Only those who
know the complexities of education here can appreciate what being a foreign
principal in a Japanese school entails and what a sterling job Pat did. I am proud
to say that we shared laughter, softball games, and friendship.
After the earthquake this year when the Kobe school was literally split in half, I
witnessed how the Marist community opened its heart to those who needed
shelter as they housed 800 victims at one time. They helped their lay teachers
and their neighbors as best they could and were always there to listen to those
who needed someone to listen. Gus Landry did his usual superman task of
repairing where repairs were possible. Since I was never one of the skilled
workers on the Poughkeepsie projects, I put myself under Gus' orders and joined
some of the Brothers cleaning their quarters, which looked as if a bomb had
struck. My wife Kinuko, who formerly taught Japanese at the Marist school,
helped with the phones. How Vincent Moriarty kept smiling through it all, I will
never know, for he spent a good two weeks sleeping in his armchair, as
aftershocks rocked the school ground day and night for several weeks.
Five months later, the Brothers are living and teaching in pre-fab huts. Any day
now the wreckers should come to pull down the shattered school. Then all that
will be left will be the goodwill and loyalty that the Brothers and their staff have
built up over the years. Yet goodwill and loyalty do not necessarily translate into
the money needed. Like everything else in this country construction costs are
sky high.
Oh, yes, we Jambors have a home in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, five
minutes off milepost 177 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's God's little acre. So
far, Mike Kelly and his wife have come and while here he woke up all the cows
in the next field with his bellowing. And Brother Hugh comes flying. From
Marists All we learned that Pat Gallagher lives in nearby Floyd County; Pat and
his wife also visited us. We're in Virginia in the summers, so if you are in the
neighborhood, our phone number is 703-952-2591. (Route 2, Box 82, Meadows
of Dan, Virginia, 24120)
FROM BR. WILLIAM MIELKE ('59): Just a few words to let you know what's
up! I became ill the week before Holy Week with what I thought was
indigestion, but then my left arm became numb. I went to see a doctor and was
rushed by ambulance to the hospital. I underwent open heart surgery and had
four by-passes. You feel invincible until illness hits. I guess the Lord didn't want
me yet. I have had my share of physical mishaps these 36 years as a monk, but
these incidents make one strong in faith. Br. Francis Regis and John Herrman
came down to Kentucky to help me the first two weeks back from the hospital.
Now I'm back to work and feeling great. Parish ministry has been great. When I
got sick, the love and concern of the people was overwhelming. In fact, two
people of the parish staff stayed in the waiting room during my six hour
operation. However, being 900 miles away from a Marist community has its
draw backs. I will return to Archbishop Molloy High School in July and will
teach the 9th graders next year. I may try to get to the GMC picnic this fall when
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I'm back in New York. (Molloy: 83-53 Manton Street, Jamaica, New York,
11435)
FROM JIM (James Lawrence) KINSELLA ('47): Corrine and I will be living in
Sun City West, Arizona, as of June 28th. Thanks for all you do with the Marist
newsletter. (23209 North Mirage Lane, Sun City West, Az. 85375)
MIDLIFE TUMOR: Experience in the Lord by Brother Sean Sammon
Its symptoms crept in by night, like those invasion forces that come ashore in
early morning hours before dawn. Over time they made themselves at home.
Strength sapped, weight gained, mood shifted. I hardly noticed. Were there good
reasons for the changes? Of course, All of them rational: too much work, too
much travel, the hard coin of midlife. A routine physical examination handed
down the diagnosis. Isn't it always that way, mundane, uneventful, startling. A
pituitary tumor. "It's extensive," the doctor said, "five centimeters and benign.
You will need surgery," Walking in at forty-six and self-reporting good health,
you leave diminished, lacking. You pass over from person to patient.
How quickly illness alters life.All those plans, tied tightly in place, become
undone.A move is put off, new work postponed, life reorganized. The hardest
part, though, is the endless telling of the story. How different the reactions of
people! Some become ministers and console; others avoid you, they wonder
"what to say?" and, speechless, wander off; still others reverse roles, making you
the caretaker. It's disconcerting to be ill and managing others--but it happens.
Years ago a friend said, "The death of one of us will mark our loss of
innocence," Believe me, you think about it--wondering if you are going to be the
one to mark his loss of innocence. Others wonder that too--they just do not tell
you.
"You will need replacement hormones as we start to treat the tumor." Then there
is the endless waiting-- for medicine to work, tissue to shrink, some semblance
of health to return. You see yourself differently and you need to be seen--to let
others know that you are still among the living. And you start to keep secrets
too.
Afterall, you were sick and did not know it, Like a careful researcher you pore
over comments passed along in recent years: "You look so tired"; "Why so
pale?"; "My, haven't we gained weight!"; "You're working too hard." Was it two
years ago that blood pressure began to climb? What about that high cholesterol
count, the one that would not budge even when cheese and ice cream were
history? "Where was I?" you wonder; "didn't I see what was happening to me?"
I missed the leave-takings, too. Sexuality, that tender brother of mine, was
among the first to depart. How well I remember the fear and illusion of our first
meeting so long ago; how much I miss the passionate union of our middle age,
so hard won these past ten years. Sister sensuality fell victim too; wet wool, crisp
cotton, the tender caress of a friend--all lost their power to please.
There's also the indignation, yours and others. Was an early diagnosis missed?
What about the joint pain, wounds that would not heal, headaches, and umpteen
other complaints of recent years? You flail about, looking for someone to blame;
all the while the tumor grows, nestled under your brain, happy and at home.
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You become a frequent visitor to the tomb-like MRI. Strapped in place,
earphones and Vivaldi masking the incessant banging, you meet the isolation of
illness. In that solitary place your demons appear. A perennial slow learner, you
begin to realize that no one else can make the journey to health for you.
In all this where is God? Surely not responsible for what has happened, but there
nevertheless, in powerful ways -present, listening when others have tired of all
the details, a consolation when you wake in the dead of night. There's no magic
to God. That realisation helps you understand the purpose of sickness. It forces
you to be yourself, You lose that public face of yours and find the one that God
sees. The loss of health is a great equalizer; it's the continual shedding of clothes
that eventually peels down to the person that you thought you were.
Finally, the surgery comes. How like a journey to another country: the tight
embraces, faces tender and frightened at the same time, the reassurances.
Departing from this touch of humanity, you are wheeled into a stainless steel and
sterile world. Banks of TV monitors, harsh ceiling lights, a narrow table, and the
cold.Always the cold, you cannot shake it. You wonder: How close will your
time here bring you to the other side? The team arrives. Masked, they struggle to
make contact. "I love this surgery," says one; "Good morning," another; still
another, "My name is Kay," Somehow the healing will take a giant step in this
place, among strangers.
Hours later I struggle with a dreamlike waking from anesthesia. My first
thought, "What time is it?" The second, "Where am I?" The reassuring hand of a
nurse connects me with the world I left for a while. It is good to be home.
Illness leaves you between lives, the one you knew and another that awaits you.
Then, you were in control, enjoyed the upper hand; now, the future is less
certain, beyond your power to shape, You realize the importance of patience.
"So, what have you learned?" people ask. That is just the point midlife illness
does not teach you anything. Instead, it helps you understand, for the first time,
And you know full well that understanding will someday answer the name of
wisdom, (Sean is vicar general of the Marist Brothers. His address is: Fratelli
Maristi delle Scuole; C.P. 10250, 00144 Rome, Italy)
FROM BR. JOHN MALICH ('55): Thanks so much for the continued mailings
of the newsletter Marists All. I really enjoy reading them and catching up on
what everyone is doing. So often you wonder where people have gone and what
has been their road. I am in the Pelham provincial house until the early part of
August, then moving somewhere, still not sure, and will be working at Mount St.
Michael. Prayers, best wishes, and blessings on Marists all. (26 First Avenue,
Pelham, New York, 10803)
DECEASED: We have word that Brother Edwin Giles Keogh ('41) died after an
extended illness and was buried on July 3rd after a Mass of Resurrection in
Bayonne, New Jersey, at which Br. John Herrman offered the eulogy.
Henry (Henry Lucian) Morneau ( 49) died May 9th at age 63, He had lived in
San Gabriel, California, with his wife Teodora, whom he had met in Kobe in
1969. At the Memorial Mass, Arthur Tardiff ('49) did a reading and Jerry
McCann ('51) paid tribute to Henry in the eulogy.
May all of our deceased rest in peace, we pray.
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FROM BR. EMIIE MICHAEL BERNARD ('29): I want to congratulate those
who initiated the idea of Marists All as well as those who devote their time and
energy to perpetuate the current issues. What impresses me most about Marists
All is the fact that the most prevalent comments by most all who came in contact
with the Marist Brothers is gratitude to Father Champagnat and to the numerous
monks who were instrumental in shaping their formative years, which eventually
had a major influence for good in their future lives.
A few years ago at Berchie's invitation to come to Esopus to keep him company,
I decided after much reflection to give it a try; but the Good Lord had other
plans. Berchie's health deteriorated to such a degree that it was decided to send
him to Miami. So here I am for over two years in this beautiful place abounding
with so many fond memories and traditions. My favorite nook and corner is the
lovely spot where over 170 Brothers rest in peace; most of them I have known
and admired. , My health is still fairly good, thank God, and at 84 I manage to
make myself useful in my declining years in a place where there are so many
odd jobs to do.At the present time the property looks like a well-groomed golf
course. (P.O. Box 185, Esopus, New York, 12429
FROM LARRY (Laurence Christopher) KEOGH ('54): Jan and I have just
returned from our Marist retreat weekend in Poughkeepsie. Although it is always
pleasant to come home we will long have wonderful memories of an event that
brought such contentment to both of us. When you live in the mid-western plains
of Illinois, the sight of the Hudson highlands and the majestic river leaves you
greatly impressed. And if to the scenery you add the wonderful people who
shared a weekend of spirituality and renewal, you have the recipe for those
unforgettable memories. The quality of our lives was truly enhanced by the
people who shared a gift with us, themselves. The combined talents of the
retreatants coupled with their good will and genuineness made us realize how
blessed we are to have so many people whom we can call our friends.
I know I speak for both Hugh and for Dennis when I extend a sincere thank you
to the retreatants for their confidence in us. If I were to claim that we had no
doubts about this whole event, I would be skating on the thin side of the truth,
but no need to worry. Thanks to the Holy Spirit and to our Marist family
background, the event happened, and we were touched. The three of us will be
meeting in early August to share our reactions and to make some tentative plans
for the future. We would certainly appreciate it if you would forward any
suggestions for next year's happening.
I would be remiss if I did not give thanks to several people whose
encouragement and hospitality meant so much as this project was being
prepared, Br. Patrick Magee extended the hospitality of the Marist community in
Chicago as we met there throughout the winter months. Br. James Devine gave
me shelter as well as moral support during my trips to the New York City area,
Br. Michael Williams was our point man in the Poughkeepsie area, doing
yeoman work behind the scenes touching base with the college administration.
Br. John Nash offered the facilities of Eden Terrace for our use and even
exhibited his skilled culinary talents for me. And Br. John Bentz's hospitality put
me back in the "powerhouse" at the Mount in early June, where I had a chance to
meet with monks whose lives reflect the qualities so necessary to a successful
journey into the later stages of the lifecycle. As you can see, there were many
contributors to our successful Marist retreat weekend; to all we owe a great debt
of thanks. (17125 West 145th Street, Lockport, II. 60441)
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FROM ED (Martin Jude) CASTINE ( 50): Maureen and I read the May issue of
Marists All from beginning to end, as always. We look forward to each issue and
enjoy reading all the news it brings. On a number of occasions Maureen has
expressed how she marvels at the Marist Spirit and the bond she sees while
reading the newsletter. We were saddened to read of Br. Leo Richard's death, yet
we rejoice that he has joined the ranks of the HEAVENLY PROVINCE. When
Teddy entered from Lawrence, Bill McNamara and I were cooking in the
Tyngsboro novitiate. Teddy had known Wiggie, and he would stop in the kitchen
occasionally indicating that he was having a difficult time, and that he probably
would not remain a full month in the novitiate. That was quite a month; it grew
to forty-three years of Marist living!
Maureen and I moved here to Lantana a little over a year ago. I've completed a
year teaching for St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale; Maureen comes with
me on occasion to work as a substitute. During the year we had a visit from
Anne and Charlie Scott, who were visiting family in the area, After that we had a
surprise call from Br. Hugh Andrew. One Sunday morning Dennis Proulx
stopped by while out bike riding, (He succeeded Wiggie and me in the
Tyngsboro kitchen.) We have since had some enjoyable visits with Dennis and
his wife Mary and have met some of their family. All of these contacts and
getting reacquainted are due, first of all, to the Marist Spirit, and then to Marists
All.
The summer recess from teaching has been full of mundane but necessary
activities, like landscaping and painting the outside of our house. Next school
year I will be teaching again at St. Thomas Aquinas. After that, I think it will be
time to put away the chalk and the math books. Then, hopefully, we will be able
to travel to the next Marist retreat weekend and to the fall GMC picnic, there to
renew some old and much valued acquaintences, (2856 Cambridge Road,
Lantana, Fl. 33462; 407-642-0335)
FROM PAT (Patrick Stephen) GALLAGHER ('53): I am so impressed by the
causeorientation of all those in the Marist family, for they are still trying to
change this world for the better, grappling with its institutions, and sharing their
visions of what can be accomplished. The whole topic of values has become a
potent force in my conducting training sessions for police. I feel extremely
comfortable revisiting a lot of concepts and mentioning names and ideas that I
thought would never have a place in executive development for police.
Mary and I have finally settled fifty miles south of Roanoke and renovated a big
house with a 220 degree view of the mountains in the distance. We feel so much
in touch with nature, the storms which gather on mountain tops, the animals that
roam through the woods, and the beautiful privacy and solitude. Mary
coordinated the renovation with the sub-contractors, arranged for materials, and
made the day-to-day decisions with the crew of carpenters from the Hillbilly
Construction Co. Bearded, tobacco-chewing, and bib-overalled, they labored
through the winter, and the ugly duckling of a house emerged as a beautiful
masterpiece on the mountainside.
We want to share our home and property with our friends, and of course to
welcome the Marist family to stop at our b'n'b; we call it the Wild Geese Inn. We
are just twenty miles off exit 114 on 1-81 close to the junction with 1-77. With
unseemly speed I always hasten from the airport in Roanoke to get back to this
retreat, where we are actually leading a quite spiritual existence, (P.O. Box 60,
Indian Valley, Va. 24105; 703-789-4056)
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FROM HENRY (Robert Baptist) GOETZE ('44) It works! IT REALLY
WORKS! Since my contribution to Marists All in the May 1995 issue, several
Marists made contact with me ... and it was great to hear from them. I got a
phone call from Michael Kelly, who lives in Atlanta as many of you probably
know ... and letters from William Quinn (David Marcellin), George Halpin, Br.
Bernard Francis, John Nevin, Br. Hugh Turley, and David Kammer. Also ... and
here's a "Biggie" ... Br. Richard (Gene Michel) stopped by for two nights on his
way to Chicago.It was a great reunion; he met some of our church friends, and
we played nine holes of golf. For an 82-year-old man Gene still has the "Master's
Touch." And naturally we did a lot of talking and catching up.
So, yes, it does work.I promised myself to send in some information for the
August issue. I'm casting my line again; perhaps I'll get some more responses. I
know John Nevin will be going to a family reunion in mid-August in North
Carolina and will be stopping by to visit his brother in Atlanta. Hopefully we can
get together during the time before he goes back to New York. And perhaps
there'll be responses from other areas.
Back in March Dave Kammer sent me the complete backlog of Marists All. I
started reading and jotting down ideas that I would like to include in my article. I
have about four pages of notes (which I am not going to bore you with). I finally
finished reading all the issues in early May. I was overwhelmed with the volume
of information about the monks and the world-wide reach of Marist influence.
Just looking over the various occupations is mindboggling: many returned or
remained in the teaching profession on many levels and in many capacities
(teachers, professors, administrators, youth ministers, counselors,
psychotherapists), while others became bankers, lawyers, authors, musicians,
State Department officers, lectors, social workers, workers in the AIDS ministry,
researchers, environmentalists.
I was particularly interested in the great strides the Philippine community has
made, even to the extent of having their OWN mission. I do remember some of
the names of those who worked there and with whom I shared many an
interesting experience: Brothers Bernard Curtin (with his political discussions),
Tommy Edward (with his challenges to others to succeed), Henry Joseph (with
his dry humor), Alfred George (with his willingness to be the butt of many
jokes), Regis Xavier (with his quiet personality and love of song), Maurus
James, Joe Teston, and Herbert Daniel (pioneers in establishing the mission),
Reginald Theodore (a workaholic and quiet 'pusher' to get things done) ... and
Filipinos Santiago Cabrera, Dominic Bendero, and Isobello Chavez, to mention
but a few.I mentioned several others in my letter in May. Br. Gene Michel told
me that Lagao is now a university, WONDERFUL!
I was saddened by the number of Brothers who have died in the past ten to
fifteen years, Brothers that I had been very close to at one time or another. I was
particularly saddened by the death of Al Shurdus. He was a very basic person
and a dedicated individual. Those in the Philippines were also very close,
sharing unique missionary experiences. During a particularly hot and dry
summer, Brother Reginald and I were working in Kidapawan. Water was very
scarce. One day we had a tropical downpour. Reggie dropped whatever he was
doing and ran out to an over flowing gutter and got instant relief. It did not take
me long to join him. Gene Connolly (Kieran Matthew) was the "poet laureate" of
our group; I appreciated his tribute to "Trot" (Br. Peter Louis) who had taught
me at Mount Saint Michael and with whom I worked in Augusta. Gene's poem
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about "Our Cemetery" revived many a nostalgic memory of our training days in
Poughkeepsie.
I would like to congratulate all the Jubilarians mentioned in Marists All. Here
are some key words and expressions that evoke memories of Marist life: free
games ... chapter of faults ... Greystone Gazette.... Jewish cornflakes ..."the blind
man cometh" ..., just to mention a few. I'm sure you remember some of these
terms and can probably contribute others from your storehouse of Marist
memorabilia.
I realize that I have not covered all my random thoughts, but there's always next
time. I want to congratulate all the wives who share the Marist way with us and
who support us in all we do; especially I thank my wife Loralee who has been
my mainstay for the past fifteen years and who learns more about the Marist
Spirit day by day.
So I have cast out my line again. Hopefully someone will take the bait and sit
down and pen a few lines. (1334 Shiloh Trail, Kennesaw, Ga. 30144 404-422-
9585)
FROM REV. FRANK (Stephen Joachim) GALL0GLY ('52): This summer I will
travel in Europe with a priest from our Villanova College.We will fly into
Frankfort where we will take an eight-hour train trip to Prague.Our Augustians
have three houses in the area, two founded in the 1230's and one in 1604. It is
the only place in our order where we have an abbot. Gregor Mondel, O.S.A., was
a member of that community, We will also visit Vienna and Salzburg, as well as
Munich where we will stay at Konvent Maria von Guten Rat, a very nice place
where I visited on my first trip to Europe in 1965. The last time I was in Europe
I met with Br. Roy Mooney and three other Marist Brothers. They had just left
their Second Novitiate in Fribourg, and I flew over from England where I had
been on vacation with my parents, (Augustinian Friars, P.O. Box 308,
Mechanicville, New York, 12118)
FROM RICHARD (Gilbert Donateur) CONNELLY ('52): I would like to receive
Marists All at my new address.I would hate to miss it! Thanx! (3247 Cocoplum
Circle, Coconut Creek, Florida, 33063.)
GMC PICNIC: Saturday, September 16th, noon to 5;
Mount St. Michael, Bronx
EDITOR'S NOTE: We know that this newsletter will not go on forever, Yet
because Marists All seems to be well received and to have done some good, we
try every means possible to keep it going for now. Recently we wrote fourteen
hand-written personal letters to friend-recipients of the newsletter, trying to
evoke some news for publication (can't figure out why a number of past close
associates don't respond). We hope to publish our next issue in early November;
will you please help us. We continue to be truly grateful for all the
encouragement and support we have had over the last nine years!
Write to Gus Nolan, Marist College, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601, or to
David Kammer, (August) Rural Route 2s Box 3300, Oakland, Maine, 04963
(September) 476 LaPlaya, Edgewater, Florida, 32141.
P.S. We have copies of past issues if anyone has missed an issue, or if you know
of anyone who has not been on our mailing list.
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ISSUE # 32
August 1995
FROM BR. SEAN SAMMON ('67): This note is long overdue, For quite some
time now I've been meaning to write to thank you for the wonderful work you're
doing in publishing Marists All regularly. I appreciate also the gentle way you
coax everyone to make a written contribution. I enjoy reading the newsletter;
since my move to Rome a little over a year ago, I'm enjoying the stories from
folks even more. Each issue brings back so many fond memories of Cold Spring,
Tyngsboro, and Lafayette Street, of our "intentional" communities in Riverdale
and in East Harlem, and later of St. Agnes, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
A number of folks have asked me how I came through my surgery for a brain
tumor last year. Enclosed is a short article I wrote one evening a month after the
procedure was completed. I sent it along to Review for Religious for publication.
Surprisingly, I've gotten more reaction to this article than to anything I've written
in the last 15 years. I remember well the evening I put it together. Pat McNamara
and I had had a final "transfer" meeting regarding his taking up the work as
Provincial. Afterwards we headed to lower Manhattan for some supper, after
which I caught Metro North back to Pelham some time near one in the morning.
Arriving home, I was in a mood to write, so I stayed up most of the early
morning hours typing away at the computer. John Nash and Gerry Doherty got
up at various times during the night; first, to question my sanity and, then, to
serve as editorial advisers on the piece. The article pretty much captures the
experience of the surgery and recovery up to April of 1994.
I've just completed a second article entitled "Mid-Life Mortalities" which fills in
some of the journey since the first article. I've sent that along to the "About
Men" column of the New York Times for consideration. I thought, however, that
the enclosed might answer the questions that folks have about my surgery or my
state of mind and body. (See "Midlife Tumor, Experience in the Lord" on later
pagge)
GMC PICNIC
MOUNT ST. MICHAEL
SEPTEMBER 16th
Noon to 5: Saturday
GMC PICNIC: Looking forward to seeing many of you at the annual Greater
Marist Community picnic to be held again this year at Mt. St. Michael in the
Bronx, Nereid and Murdock Avenues, near the Mt. Vernon border. The gathering
will be on Saturday, September 16th, from noon to 5 p.m. Indoor facilities are
available in case of rain. Come with spouse and children or come alone. Bring
your own beverage and a pot-luck dish for a shared meal. All Brothers are most
welcome to join in. Thanks to the director and community of the Mount for
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welcoming us. We have been having this picnic each year on the second
Saturday after labor Day; mark Saturday, September 16th, on your calendar!
FROM BOB (Robert Thomas) TOOLE ('54): Many thanks to Larry Keogh and
his wife Jan and to Brothers Hugh Turley and Dennis Dunne for their efforts in
planning and executing the first Marist retreat/reunion held at Marist College
June 30th to July 2nd, to pray together, worship, share, and also laugh (mostly
laugh, I think). The experience renewed the greater Marist spirit in all of us.
Thanks also to Brother Len Voegtle for his focused presentation and his
comments on Marcellin Champagnat (2778 Wilson Ave., Bellmore, N. Y. 11710)
FROM MICHAEL (Michael Vincent) KELLY ('50): I just received the May
issue of Marists All. Thanks for your continuing efforts to bring the "good news"
to all of us. We are now in our fourth year in Atlanta, which will soon be a
record as we have a reputation for moving every few years. Atlanta and Georgia
Tech continue to be exciting places to be. The last I heard there was $340 million
in construction on campus in anticipation of the 1996 Olympics. Construction
throughout the city is most evident during rush hours because of all the day and
night building.
We have had the good fortune to be in regular contact with Rick Jambor and his
wife, who managed to avoid many of the problems that devastated the Kobe area
in Japan. They are now neighbors of Pat Gallagher and his wife in the Blue
Ridge Mountains of Virginia. In the mountains, that means that their respective
retreats are separated by no more than 30 miles of pasture!
Since we moved here it has become much easier for us to have family reunions.
In fact, in a way we have been running a half-way house. Ten members of our
family have joined us, literally. Now most of them have moved into their own
places. At this point there are only six of us, including my daughter who is at the
University of Hartford. You are welcome to occupy any empty room, but please
call to be sure roams continue to be vacant.
I switched jobs at Georgia Tech. I am working in the School of Management,
Public Policy, and International Affairs, where I will teach management courses.
I recently did a study for industry on what managers need to know to be effective
in the next millennium. Wait until the industry people read what they paid for; it
was sent out this week. I selected the period beyond 2010, thinking that I could
hardly be wrong in 1995! Actually, it was a great learning experience.
In the report I recommend that among other things they focus on their core
values: integrity, honesty, trust, etc. This because future information technology
will permit immediate worldwide broadcasting of their "sins" to the detriment of
their corporate image. It is interesting to think that the world may actually
become a better place to live - for good business reasons. Perhaps the prediction
of Arnold Toynbee may come to pass:
"Our age will be remembered not for its terrifying crimes or its
astonishing inventions but because it is the first generation since the
dawn of history in which mankind dared to believe it practical to
make the benefits of civilization available to the whole human race."
Reading Marists All, it is quite evident that the Marist family has been doing its
share to make the world a better place to live. Be well and God bless y'all. (575
Mt. Vernon Highway N.W., Atlanta, Georgia, 30327; 404-255-5017)
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ESOPUS PROVINCE CHAPTER MEETS:
The Chapter of the Esopus Province met memorial weekend to elect a new
Provincial Council. The gathering opened under the direction of Brother John
Klein ('66), provincial. The delegates elected Brother Leo Shea ('52) to be the
full-time vice provincial. Serving as provincial councilors for the next three
years will be Br. Stephen Schlitte ('77), Br. Vincent Damian ('52), Br. John
McDonnell ('59), Br. John Venturella ('81), and Br. Robert Clark ('75). With the
appointment of Br. Leo Shea, the Province of Poughkeepsie has asked for names
of Brothers who might assume the position of president of Our Lady of Lourdes
High School, Poughkeepsie, and of the Marist Duchess Educational Park
Project. The Poughkeepsie Leadership Team has thanked Br. Leo and his Esopus
Province for "charismatic and dedicated leadership through the past two years.
Leo has lent a wonderful confidence and direction to the establishment of our
project; we know he will be missed both in our ministry and in the Brothers'
communities of the area."
(from Newsnotes, June 1995, Poughkeepsie Province leadership Team)
FROM RICHARD (Anthony Dominic) JAMBOR ('50): I envy my children as
they leaf through alumni bulletins searching for news about their old classmates.
And yet for so long you have been sharing news of our old classmates for all of
us. Each time Marists All arrives I open the envelope eagerly to see what my
friends, no, my brothers are up to. How can I ever thank you!
In the Brothers' chapel here in Kobe last Sunday, Br. John Bird asked me to do
the first reading, and what was that reading but the same one we used to sing on
July 26th about how "the Lord is my inheritance, my portion and my cup." It
brought back memories, happy ones.
Where to begin? After leaving the Brothers, I taught in Marist Brothers
International School here for over ten years. That position I owe to Mattis
Callanan who understood me and put up with my doubts and tantrums. Now that
he is ill, I think it's time I acknowledge what I owe him! (Matt is taking radiation
treatments after his surgery in San Francisco. Br. Charles Filiatrault cared for
Matt for one month; now Br. Patrick Tyrell is assisting with travel and treatment.
Matt will move to a Miami community in late July.)
During my time in Kobe I met and married my dear Kinuko who gave me her
two Japanese children as wedding presents, Noriko our daughter and Takeo our
elder son. Then we were blessed with Kenneth, now twenty-two. All three
children are living in the States, Noriko employed as a pharmacist; she is
married to a wonderful young man. Takeo is working in a Walmart near the
home of his sister. Kenneth just graduated from VMI and is now in the Air
Force.
For the past twelve years I have been teaching at Kobe Shoin Women's
University.I completed a joint translation from the Japanese, a copy of which I
sent to Marist College; at present I am earnestly seeking a publisher for another
translation.
I must add that the inspired teaching of Brothers Stephen Urban, Giles Keogh,
and George Robert opened the door to foreign languages for me. Richie Foy
used to compare me to Connally's Mister Blue. I don't know about that, but what
with my life in the Brothers and with what has taken place after, I have to say
that I've been lucky and I count myself so blessed.
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I have been impressed with the work of the Brothers here in Kobe. The
international school was started by European monks expelled from Communist
China. Those of us who lived with them knew them as men of faith, and they
were patient with our youthful foibles. I revere their memory even now. Pat
Tyrell has just returned to the States after 38 years, having started and
administered the first Marist school for Japanese in Kumamoto. Only those who
know the complexities of education here can appreciate what being a foreign
principal in a Japanese school entails and what a sterling job Pat did. I am proud
to say that we shared laughter, softball games, and friendship.
After the earthquake this year when the Kobe school was literally split in half, I
witnessed how the Marist community opened its heart to those who needed
shelter as they housed 800 victims at one time. They helped their lay teachers
and their neighbors as best they could and were always there to listen to those
who needed someone to listen. Gus Landry did his usual superman task of
repairing where repairs were possible. Since I was never one of the skilled
workers on the Poughkeepsie projects, I put myself under Gus' orders and joined
some of the Brothers cleaning their quarters, which looked as if a bomb had
struck. My wife Kinuko, who formerly taught Japanese at the Marist school,
helped with the phones. How Vincent Moriarty kept smiling through it all, I will
never know, for he spent a good two weeks sleeping in his armchair, as
aftershocks rocked the school ground day and night for several weeks.
Five months later, the Brothers are living and teaching in pre-fab huts. Any day
now the wreckers should come to pull down the shattered school. Then all that
will be left will be the goodwill and loyalty that the Brothers and their staff have
built up over the years. Yet goodwill and loyalty do not necessarily translate into
the money needed. Like everything else in this country construction costs are
sky high.
Oh, yes, we Jambors have a home in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, five
minutes off milepost 177 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's God's little acre. So
far, Mike Kelly and his wife have come and while here he woke up all the cows
in the next field with his bellowing. And Brother Hugh comes flying. From
Marists All we learned that Pat Gallagher lives in nearby Floyd County; Pat and
his wife also visited us. We're in Virginia in the summers, so if you are in the
neighborhood, our phone number is 703-952-2591. (Route 2, Box 82, Meadows
of Dan, Virginia, 24120)
FROM BR. WILLIAM MIELKE ('59): Just a few words to let you know what's
up! I became ill the week before Holy Week with what I thought was
indigestion, but then my left arm became numb. I went to see a doctor and was
rushed by ambulance to the hospital. I underwent open heart surgery and had
four by-passes. You feel invincible until illness hits. I guess the Lord didn't want
me yet. I have had my share of physical mishaps these 36 years as a monk, but
these incidents make one strong in faith. Br. Francis Regis and John Herrman
came down to Kentucky to help me the first two weeks back from the hospital.
Now I'm back to work and feeling great. Parish ministry has been great. When I
got sick, the love and concern of the people was overwhelming. In fact, two
people of the parish staff stayed in the waiting room during my six hour
operation. However, being 900 miles away from a Marist community has its
draw backs. I will return to Archbishop Molloy High School in July and will
teach the 9th graders next year. I may try to get to the GMC picnic this fall when
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I'm back in New York. (Molloy: 83-53 Manton Street, Jamaica, New York,
11435)
FROM JIM (James Lawrence) KINSELLA ('47): Corrine and I will be living in
Sun City West, Arizona, as of June 28th. Thanks for all you do with the Marist
newsletter. (23209 North Mirage Lane, Sun City West, Az. 85375)
MIDLIFE TUMOR: Experience in the Lord by Brother Sean Sammon
Its symptoms crept in by night, like those invasion forces that come ashore in
early morning hours before dawn. Over time they made themselves at home.
Strength sapped, weight gained, mood shifted. I hardly noticed. Were there good
reasons for the changes? Of course, All of them rational: too much work, too
much travel, the hard coin of midlife. A routine physical examination handed
down the diagnosis. Isn't it always that way, mundane, uneventful, startling. A
pituitary tumor. "It's extensive," the doctor said, "five centimeters and benign.
You will need surgery," Walking in at forty-six and self-reporting good health,
you leave diminished, lacking. You pass over from person to patient.
How quickly illness alters life.All those plans, tied tightly in place, become
undone.A move is put off, new work postponed, life reorganized. The hardest
part, though, is the endless telling of the story. How different the reactions of
people! Some become ministers and console; others avoid you, they wonder
"what to say?" and, speechless, wander off; still others reverse roles, making you
the caretaker. It's disconcerting to be ill and managing others--but it happens.
Years ago a friend said, "The death of one of us will mark our loss of
innocence," Believe me, you think about it--wondering if you are going to be the
one to mark his loss of innocence. Others wonder that too--they just do not tell
you.
"You will need replacement hormones as we start to treat the tumor." Then there
is the endless waiting-- for medicine to work, tissue to shrink, some semblance
of health to return. You see yourself differently and you need to be seen--to let
others know that you are still among the living. And you start to keep secrets
too.
Afterall, you were sick and did not know it, Like a careful researcher you pore
over comments passed along in recent years: "You look so tired"; "Why so
pale?"; "My, haven't we gained weight!"; "You're working too hard." Was it two
years ago that blood pressure began to climb? What about that high cholesterol
count, the one that would not budge even when cheese and ice cream were
history? "Where was I?" you wonder; "didn't I see what was happening to me?"
I missed the leave-takings, too. Sexuality, that tender brother of mine, was
among the first to depart. How well I remember the fear and illusion of our first
meeting so long ago; how much I miss the passionate union of our middle age,
so hard won these past ten years. Sister sensuality fell victim too; wet wool, crisp
cotton, the tender caress of a friend--all lost their power to please.
There's also the indignation, yours and others. Was an early diagnosis missed?
What about the joint pain, wounds that would not heal, headaches, and umpteen
other complaints of recent years? You flail about, looking for someone to blame;
all the while the tumor grows, nestled under your brain, happy and at home.
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You become a frequent visitor to the tomb-like MRI. Strapped in place,
earphones and Vivaldi masking the incessant banging, you meet the isolation of
illness. In that solitary place your demons appear. A perennial slow learner, you
begin to realize that no one else can make the journey to health for you.
In all this where is God? Surely not responsible for what has happened, but there
nevertheless, in powerful ways -present, listening when others have tired of all
the details, a consolation when you wake in the dead of night. There's no magic
to God. That realisation helps you understand the purpose of sickness. It forces
you to be yourself, You lose that public face of yours and find the one that God
sees. The loss of health is a great equalizer; it's the continual shedding of clothes
that eventually peels down to the person that you thought you were.
Finally, the surgery comes. How like a journey to another country: the tight
embraces, faces tender and frightened at the same time, the reassurances.
Departing from this touch of humanity, you are wheeled into a stainless steel and
sterile world. Banks of TV monitors, harsh ceiling lights, a narrow table, and the
cold.Always the cold, you cannot shake it. You wonder: How close will your
time here bring you to the other side? The team arrives. Masked, they struggle to
make contact. "I love this surgery," says one; "Good morning," another; still
another, "My name is Kay," Somehow the healing will take a giant step in this
place, among strangers.
Hours later I struggle with a dreamlike waking from anesthesia. My first
thought, "What time is it?" The second, "Where am I?" The reassuring hand of a
nurse connects me with the world I left for a while. It is good to be home.
Illness leaves you between lives, the one you knew and another that awaits you.
Then, you were in control, enjoyed the upper hand; now, the future is less
certain, beyond your power to shape, You realize the importance of patience.
"So, what have you learned?" people ask. That is just the point midlife illness
does not teach you anything. Instead, it helps you understand, for the first time,
And you know full well that understanding will someday answer the name of
wisdom, (Sean is vicar general of the Marist Brothers. His address is: Fratelli
Maristi delle Scuole; C.P. 10250, 00144 Rome, Italy)
FROM BR. JOHN MALICH ('55): Thanks so much for the continued mailings
of the newsletter Marists All. I really enjoy reading them and catching up on
what everyone is doing. So often you wonder where people have gone and what
has been their road. I am in the Pelham provincial house until the early part of
August, then moving somewhere, still not sure, and will be working at Mount St.
Michael. Prayers, best wishes, and blessings on Marists all. (26 First Avenue,
Pelham, New York, 10803)
DECEASED: We have word that Brother Edwin Giles Keogh ('41) died after an
extended illness and was buried on July 3rd after a Mass of Resurrection in
Bayonne, New Jersey, at which Br. John Herrman offered the eulogy.
Henry (Henry Lucian) Morneau ( 49) died May 9th at age 63, He had lived in
San Gabriel, California, with his wife Teodora, whom he had met in Kobe in
1969. At the Memorial Mass, Arthur Tardiff ('49) did a reading and Jerry
McCann ('51) paid tribute to Henry in the eulogy.
May all of our deceased rest in peace, we pray.
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FROM BR. EMIIE MICHAEL BERNARD ('29): I want to congratulate those
who initiated the idea of Marists All as well as those who devote their time and
energy to perpetuate the current issues. What impresses me most about Marists
All is the fact that the most prevalent comments by most all who came in contact
with the Marist Brothers is gratitude to Father Champagnat and to the numerous
monks who were instrumental in shaping their formative years, which eventually
had a major influence for good in their future lives.
A few years ago at Berchie's invitation to come to Esopus to keep him company,
I decided after much reflection to give it a try; but the Good Lord had other
plans. Berchie's health deteriorated to such a degree that it was decided to send
him to Miami. So here I am for over two years in this beautiful place abounding
with so many fond memories and traditions. My favorite nook and corner is the
lovely spot where over 170 Brothers rest in peace; most of them I have known
and admired. , My health is still fairly good, thank God, and at 84 I manage to
make myself useful in my declining years in a place where there are so many
odd jobs to do.At the present time the property looks like a well-groomed golf
course. (P.O. Box 185, Esopus, New York, 12429
FROM LARRY (Laurence Christopher) KEOGH ('54): Jan and I have just
returned from our Marist retreat weekend in Poughkeepsie. Although it is always
pleasant to come home we will long have wonderful memories of an event that
brought such contentment to both of us. When you live in the mid-western plains
of Illinois, the sight of the Hudson highlands and the majestic river leaves you
greatly impressed. And if to the scenery you add the wonderful people who
shared a weekend of spirituality and renewal, you have the recipe for those
unforgettable memories. The quality of our lives was truly enhanced by the
people who shared a gift with us, themselves. The combined talents of the
retreatants coupled with their good will and genuineness made us realize how
blessed we are to have so many people whom we can call our friends.
I know I speak for both Hugh and for Dennis when I extend a sincere thank you
to the retreatants for their confidence in us. If I were to claim that we had no
doubts about this whole event, I would be skating on the thin side of the truth,
but no need to worry. Thanks to the Holy Spirit and to our Marist family
background, the event happened, and we were touched. The three of us will be
meeting in early August to share our reactions and to make some tentative plans
for the future. We would certainly appreciate it if you would forward any
suggestions for next year's happening.
I would be remiss if I did not give thanks to several people whose
encouragement and hospitality meant so much as this project was being
prepared, Br. Patrick Magee extended the hospitality of the Marist community in
Chicago as we met there throughout the winter months. Br. James Devine gave
me shelter as well as moral support during my trips to the New York City area,
Br. Michael Williams was our point man in the Poughkeepsie area, doing
yeoman work behind the scenes touching base with the college administration.
Br. John Nash offered the facilities of Eden Terrace for our use and even
exhibited his skilled culinary talents for me. And Br. John Bentz's hospitality put
me back in the "powerhouse" at the Mount in early June, where I had a chance to
meet with monks whose lives reflect the qualities so necessary to a successful
journey into the later stages of the lifecycle. As you can see, there were many
contributors to our successful Marist retreat weekend; to all we owe a great debt
of thanks. (17125 West 145th Street, Lockport, II. 60441)
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FROM ED (Martin Jude) CASTINE ( 50): Maureen and I read the May issue of
Marists All from beginning to end, as always. We look forward to each issue and
enjoy reading all the news it brings. On a number of occasions Maureen has
expressed how she marvels at the Marist Spirit and the bond she sees while
reading the newsletter. We were saddened to read of Br. Leo Richard's death, yet
we rejoice that he has joined the ranks of the HEAVENLY PROVINCE. When
Teddy entered from Lawrence, Bill McNamara and I were cooking in the
Tyngsboro novitiate. Teddy had known Wiggie, and he would stop in the kitchen
occasionally indicating that he was having a difficult time, and that he probably
would not remain a full month in the novitiate. That was quite a month; it grew
to forty-three years of Marist living!
Maureen and I moved here to Lantana a little over a year ago. I've completed a
year teaching for St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale; Maureen comes with
me on occasion to work as a substitute. During the year we had a visit from
Anne and Charlie Scott, who were visiting family in the area, After that we had a
surprise call from Br. Hugh Andrew. One Sunday morning Dennis Proulx
stopped by while out bike riding, (He succeeded Wiggie and me in the
Tyngsboro kitchen.) We have since had some enjoyable visits with Dennis and
his wife Mary and have met some of their family. All of these contacts and
getting reacquainted are due, first of all, to the Marist Spirit, and then to Marists
All.
The summer recess from teaching has been full of mundane but necessary
activities, like landscaping and painting the outside of our house. Next school
year I will be teaching again at St. Thomas Aquinas. After that, I think it will be
time to put away the chalk and the math books. Then, hopefully, we will be able
to travel to the next Marist retreat weekend and to the fall GMC picnic, there to
renew some old and much valued acquaintences, (2856 Cambridge Road,
Lantana, Fl. 33462; 407-642-0335)
FROM PAT (Patrick Stephen) GALLAGHER ('53): I am so impressed by the
causeorientation of all those in the Marist family, for they are still trying to
change this world for the better, grappling with its institutions, and sharing their
visions of what can be accomplished. The whole topic of values has become a
potent force in my conducting training sessions for police. I feel extremely
comfortable revisiting a lot of concepts and mentioning names and ideas that I
thought would never have a place in executive development for police.
Mary and I have finally settled fifty miles south of Roanoke and renovated a big
house with a 220 degree view of the mountains in the distance. We feel so much
in touch with nature, the storms which gather on mountain tops, the animals that
roam through the woods, and the beautiful privacy and solitude. Mary
coordinated the renovation with the sub-contractors, arranged for materials, and
made the day-to-day decisions with the crew of carpenters from the Hillbilly
Construction Co. Bearded, tobacco-chewing, and bib-overalled, they labored
through the winter, and the ugly duckling of a house emerged as a beautiful
masterpiece on the mountainside.
We want to share our home and property with our friends, and of course to
welcome the Marist family to stop at our b'n'b; we call it the Wild Geese Inn. We
are just twenty miles off exit 114 on 1-81 close to the junction with 1-77. With
unseemly speed I always hasten from the airport in Roanoke to get back to this
retreat, where we are actually leading a quite spiritual existence, (P.O. Box 60,
Indian Valley, Va. 24105; 703-789-4056)
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FROM HENRY (Robert Baptist) GOETZE ('44) It works! IT REALLY
WORKS! Since my contribution to Marists All in the May 1995 issue, several
Marists made contact with me ... and it was great to hear from them. I got a
phone call from Michael Kelly, who lives in Atlanta as many of you probably
know ... and letters from William Quinn (David Marcellin), George Halpin, Br.
Bernard Francis, John Nevin, Br. Hugh Turley, and David Kammer. Also ... and
here's a "Biggie" ... Br. Richard (Gene Michel) stopped by for two nights on his
way to Chicago.It was a great reunion; he met some of our church friends, and
we played nine holes of golf. For an 82-year-old man Gene still has the "Master's
Touch." And naturally we did a lot of talking and catching up.
So, yes, it does work.I promised myself to send in some information for the
August issue. I'm casting my line again; perhaps I'll get some more responses. I
know John Nevin will be going to a family reunion in mid-August in North
Carolina and will be stopping by to visit his brother in Atlanta. Hopefully we can
get together during the time before he goes back to New York. And perhaps
there'll be responses from other areas.
Back in March Dave Kammer sent me the complete backlog of Marists All. I
started reading and jotting down ideas that I would like to include in my article. I
have about four pages of notes (which I am not going to bore you with). I finally
finished reading all the issues in early May. I was overwhelmed with the volume
of information about the monks and the world-wide reach of Marist influence.
Just looking over the various occupations is mindboggling: many returned or
remained in the teaching profession on many levels and in many capacities
(teachers, professors, administrators, youth ministers, counselors,
psychotherapists), while others became bankers, lawyers, authors, musicians,
State Department officers, lectors, social workers, workers in the AIDS ministry,
researchers, environmentalists.
I was particularly interested in the great strides the Philippine community has
made, even to the extent of having their OWN mission. I do remember some of
the names of those who worked there and with whom I shared many an
interesting experience: Brothers Bernard Curtin (with his political discussions),
Tommy Edward (with his challenges to others to succeed), Henry Joseph (with
his dry humor), Alfred George (with his willingness to be the butt of many
jokes), Regis Xavier (with his quiet personality and love of song), Maurus
James, Joe Teston, and Herbert Daniel (pioneers in establishing the mission),
Reginald Theodore (a workaholic and quiet 'pusher' to get things done) ... and
Filipinos Santiago Cabrera, Dominic Bendero, and Isobello Chavez, to mention
but a few.I mentioned several others in my letter in May. Br. Gene Michel told
me that Lagao is now a university, WONDERFUL!
I was saddened by the number of Brothers who have died in the past ten to
fifteen years, Brothers that I had been very close to at one time or another. I was
particularly saddened by the death of Al Shurdus. He was a very basic person
and a dedicated individual. Those in the Philippines were also very close,
sharing unique missionary experiences. During a particularly hot and dry
summer, Brother Reginald and I were working in Kidapawan. Water was very
scarce. One day we had a tropical downpour. Reggie dropped whatever he was
doing and ran out to an over flowing gutter and got instant relief. It did not take
me long to join him. Gene Connolly (Kieran Matthew) was the "poet laureate" of
our group; I appreciated his tribute to "Trot" (Br. Peter Louis) who had taught
me at Mount Saint Michael and with whom I worked in Augusta. Gene's poem
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about "Our Cemetery" revived many a nostalgic memory of our training days in
Poughkeepsie.
I would like to congratulate all the Jubilarians mentioned in Marists All. Here
are some key words and expressions that evoke memories of Marist life: free
games ... chapter of faults ... Greystone Gazette.... Jewish cornflakes ..."the blind
man cometh" ..., just to mention a few. I'm sure you remember some of these
terms and can probably contribute others from your storehouse of Marist
memorabilia.
I realize that I have not covered all my random thoughts, but there's always next
time. I want to congratulate all the wives who share the Marist way with us and
who support us in all we do; especially I thank my wife Loralee who has been
my mainstay for the past fifteen years and who learns more about the Marist
Spirit day by day.
So I have cast out my line again. Hopefully someone will take the bait and sit
down and pen a few lines. (1334 Shiloh Trail, Kennesaw, Ga. 30144 404-422-
9585)
FROM REV. FRANK (Stephen Joachim) GALL0GLY ('52): This summer I will
travel in Europe with a priest from our Villanova College.We will fly into
Frankfort where we will take an eight-hour train trip to Prague.Our Augustians
have three houses in the area, two founded in the 1230's and one in 1604. It is
the only place in our order where we have an abbot. Gregor Mondel, O.S.A., was
a member of that community, We will also visit Vienna and Salzburg, as well as
Munich where we will stay at Konvent Maria von Guten Rat, a very nice place
where I visited on my first trip to Europe in 1965. The last time I was in Europe
I met with Br. Roy Mooney and three other Marist Brothers. They had just left
their Second Novitiate in Fribourg, and I flew over from England where I had
been on vacation with my parents, (Augustinian Friars, P.O. Box 308,
Mechanicville, New York, 12118)
FROM RICHARD (Gilbert Donateur) CONNELLY ('52): I would like to receive
Marists All at my new address.I would hate to miss it! Thanx! (3247 Cocoplum
Circle, Coconut Creek, Florida, 33063.)
GMC PICNIC: Saturday, September 16th, noon to 5;
Mount St. Michael, Bronx
EDITOR'S NOTE: We know that this newsletter will not go on forever, Yet
because Marists All seems to be well received and to have done some good, we
try every means possible to keep it going for now. Recently we wrote fourteen
hand-written personal letters to friend-recipients of the newsletter, trying to
evoke some news for publication (can't figure out why a number of past close
associates don't respond). We hope to publish our next issue in early November;
will you please help us. We continue to be truly grateful for all the
encouragement and support we have had over the last nine years!
Write to Gus Nolan, Marist College, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601, or to
David Kammer, (August) Rural Route 2s Box 3300, Oakland, Maine, 04963
(September) 476 LaPlaya, Edgewater, Florida, 32141.
P.S. We have copies of past issues if anyone has missed an issue, or if you know
of anyone who has not been on our mailing list.
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