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ISSUE # 26
February 1994
FROM BR. LEONARD VOEGTLE ('50): Thanks for the most recent issue of
Marists All, which reached me in Rome, with the hint that I write something
about the chapter. This was my fourth participation in chapter since '67, as you
know, and by far it was the best in every respect. To begin with, the Generalate
itself is a much more livable place: new paint job, new heating system, new
windows, new kitchen, better and more abundant food served cafeteria style
from steam tables, real table cloths, several 24-hour-a-day "coffee bars" with
everything from expresso and cappuccino to soft drinks, fruit juices, and beer on
tap ... and in the chapter hall, carpeting, comfortable chairs, and rented state-of-
the-art translation and voting equipment.
The main corridor, where the portraits of the superiors general are hung, was
devoted to a series of displays. The first was of photos and other information
about our houses, schools, and other apostolates; the next was of Marist
publications and art work (including T-shirts and baseball caps) from around the
world.
Dress was very casual. Only two monks wore cassocks all the time, and neither
wore it as a "statement" or as "battle flag.." A few wore cassocks or suits to our
papal audience, but standard dress at home was sport shirts and slacks or shorts
depending on the weather. I guess the only uniformity in dress occurred the day
the U.S. provinces gave every capitulant a blue baseball cap with "MARIST"
embroidered on it in red and white! The sheafs of statistics we were given show
that most of us are still in schools; that more than half the monks live in
communities of fewer than ten; that our average age worldwide is 55.5
(Venezuela is youngest at 38.5, Switzerland oldest at 66.3); that Esopus averages
at 56.4, Poughkeepsie at 57.8; and that since '78 each U.S. province has
diminished by an average of four monks per year.
Spirit among the capitulants was the best I've ever seen. The overt or hidden
tensions and suspicions of past chapters had vanished, in large part I think,
because now we've all lived through the same cultural and religious upheaval,
and we're all facing the same challenges, as was evident from the strong
convergence of responses to the questions that arose in discussion groups and in
the assembly. A great help was that so many use English now as a second
language, and that so many of the "anglophones" also spoke Spanish and/or
French. Incidentally, there were twenty Marist College grads among the
capitulants, secretaries, translators, and permanent community.
On October 7th we elected our new superior general, a man from Spain named
Benito Arbues; he had been vicar. Our new vicar general is Sean Sammon,
provincial of Poughkeepsie. Ceremonies following the elections were very
moving, because of their solemnity and because of their symbolic links with the
past ... like the ringing of the big bell from our former mother house in
Grugliasco, which has announced the election of every new superior general
since 1907 ... like the procession from the chapter hall to the chapel with the
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relic of Marcellin and his favorite statue of "the Good Mother" being carried
ahead of us, followed immediately by Benito, Charles, and Basilio.
A week later, we elected eight councillors, two from the Spanish-speaking
group, one each from among the French, Portuguese, and English speakers, and
three more "at large." The end result was a young and well-balanced council.
The oldest is 56, the youngest is 42, their average age is 49.5. Only two were in
the previous administration. Three are from Europe (France, Britain, and Spain),
three from Latin America (Central America, Peru, and Brazil), two from North
America (Canada and the United States), one from Africa (a Spaniard from
Zambia and Kenya), and one from Oceania (an Australian who has also worked
in India). Only Claudino, the Brazilian, doesn't speak English; only Sean doesn't
speak French.
A Brother from inside China was able to get a passport and visa to be with us as
an observer. He told us some of his story (see later page of this newsletter). We
also listened to the superior of our Brothers in Angola, telling of the horrible
conditions there (see later page of this issue).
On a happier note, the first Haitian Marist Brother made first profession last
September. You already know that the first Liberian Marist made his profession
last June; two others from Liberia are presently in the inter-provincial novitiate
in Ghana. Recently the Brothers who returned to Hungary two years ago were
finally able to open a school in Gyor. And next September seven Brothers will
refound our work in Cuba; as you recall Castro put all 120 Marist Brothers
working in that country on two planes one day in 1959 and sent them off to
Miami! Cuba's loss was others' gain; those men eventually opened schools in
nearly every country in Central America.
Joining us on September 12th for evening prayer and a picnic supper in the
central courtyard was a Marist family gathering of about 300 strong: the whole
chapter of the Marist Fathers, the general councils of the Marist Sisters and of
the Marist Missionary Sisters, and a few Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions
(one of the forerunners of the Marist Missionary Sisters).
A group of men and women from a dozen or so countries spent a week with us,
sharing their impressions of the Brothers and their hopes for what we can offer
them, especially through the Champagnat Movement: spirituality, vision,
leadership, and collaboration in ministry. Many found them a real challenge and
inspiration.
Our papal audience this time was the best yet: no speeches! Papa shook hands
with each of us, gave us a simple blessing, and was off to his next group: the
bishops from New York State, whom we met on our way in. Ed Head and Pat
Ahern are graduates of our schools, and others know us from meetings and other
official contacts, so we Americans chatted with them for a time.
Meanwhile, the chapter commissions worked along, experiencing the usual
problems and tensions involved in trying to express common ideas in words that
suit our various cultures and languages. We agreed from the outset that we
wanted no more long documents, just one brief message to the whole
congregation and another to our lay associates and friends, accompanied by
equally brief "orientation papers" from each commission presenting their vision
of what we should be and what we should do for the next eight years.
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We completed our work on the 23rd of October, and I flew back on the 25th.
Since then I have been recovering from ,jet-lag and catching up with mail and
translating the Formation Guide, approved in draft form in 1985 and finalized at
this chapter. After spending the past weekend in Bellport, I'm back to the
tribunal tomorrow!
Thought you'd appreciate the enclosed memorial card pertaining to Berky, our
new intercessor in heaven ... and Notre Dame's also; no wonder the Irish are on a
winning streak!. (1241 Kennedy Boulevard, Bayonne, New Jersey, 07002; 201-
437-4115)
FROM DAN (Daniel Augustine) HANLEY ('57): About a month ago I was
invited to the home of Russell and Shirley Therriault. I enjoyed the evening
talking about what had happened to each of us during the last 33 years. Russell's
personality has not changed. He looks a little older, but he is still the confident,
humble person I remember from the Novitiate and the Scholasticate. His address
is: 814 Fleming Way, Pensacola, Florida, 32514. Little did we know, but our
sons had known each other for the last eight years. They are both into music and
have a mutual friend.
After he taught at Central Catholic High in Wheeling, West Virginia, Russell
joined the Marines and flew as a navigator in the reconnaissance version of the
F-4. He arrived in Vietnam about three months after I rotated back. During his
tour in the Marines, he did test out the F-4's Martin Baker ejection seat twice.
Russell said he had met another former Brother, a person in the Air Force, at the
Da Nang club.
Since the military, Russell has been teaching the 8th grade at a middle school in
Pensacola. In the beginning of 1993 he was hospitalized for five months with a
ruptured gall bladder. He dropped about fifty pounds, but is gradually regaining
his weight. He said he expects to start teaching again in January.
Russell told me that in the early 1980's Christopher Columbus High School
came to Pensacola to play a Class 5A football game. Our little Pensacola
Catholic High School is usually Class 2A and does not get to play any of the big
schools. It is the only Catholic high school in the Pensacola Tallahassee
missionary diocese in northwest Florida. (2731 Semoran Drive, Pensacola,
Florida, 32503)
FROM ROBERT (Joseph Kevin) COLLINS ('53): Three years since my first
blurb to Marists All when I promised a post Tyngsboro bio-sketch: First job out
of the monks was at the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey with studies at
Fordham at night. A cocktail or two before classes; in a year's time it was
cocktails any time ... and no more Port job or Fordham! The disease of
alcoholism that was killing my parents was beginning its work on me. Work in
construction seemed to be a wise move, as the money was good and drinking
was condoned.
Married a beautiful Yorkville "narrowback" in '63, Anne Kearns, and we were
blessed with Robert, Kevin, and Kathleen. By '74 the drinking was totally out of
control, and I was incapable of being either husband or father. Re-enter God ...
through that marvelous fellowship, Alcoholics Anonymous ... in August of 1974:
Both Anne and I have been sober, active members since, and life has been
beyond my wildest dreams.
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Anne is an alcoholism and drug counselor and a Eucharistic minister. I
completed college at Adelphi University and work as a steamfitter. I was an EAP
in my union for a time. For the last 14 years I've taught classes part time in the
state DWI program at Stony Brook University, and I love it. I am a lector in our
parish. Anne and I are the happy grandparents of Kiera, daughter of Kevin.
Through Marists All, I was re-connected with Br. Luke Driscoll, my teacher, my
mentor, my friend. Last May, Anne and I attended Brother Luke's 60th Marist
anniversary at Roselle Catholic. What a gift of a day'. Seeing Brothers Richie
Shea, Dan Grogam, Tom Delaney ... flooded me with memories of my Marist
past. Thank you all, for you are, indeed, the finest men I have ever met. "He who
sustains us is the God of strength."
(1 Kimberly Avenue, Farmingville, N. Y. 11738)
FROM BR. JOE BELANGER ('43): Truly a very eventful year, a blessed year,
was 1993. The Brothers celebrated us as Jubilarians on the first of May in
Roselle, and Cardinal O'Connor hosted us at Dunwoodie the following Saturday.
We had a big celebration at Marist College on May 15th with Mass and dinner
starting at 4 p.m. with over 150 relatives, alums, and friends joing in the
festivities.
On June 1st, I left for a trip to broaden my perspectives for my World Cultures
course. The Brothers in Kobe, Japan, were in finals, but I managed on my own
to see Shinsendo temple and garden in Kyoto and Himeji Castle south of Kobe.
My three days in Seoul, Korea, were the most revealing of the trip, because I
knew so little about Korea. With Br. Gerry Brereton guiding me everywhere, I
learned about the hundreds of Korean martyrs of the last century at Chol Tu San
hill, next to the Brothers' residence. No wonder the Korean people are so
religious. The Brothers have no schools in Korea, but they run retreat houses and
work in several leprosaria. I particularly enjoyed talking with all the Brothers.
The welcome everywhere was so warm. So many good people everywhere doing
so much good. A great feeling of solidarity.
My next stop was in New Zealand where I spent one week with Xavier Ryan,
former professor at Marist College, now working ecologically a 120-acre
compound with cattle, hundreds of trees, and a vegetable garden, and hosting
retreatants and lecturing periodically at colleges and parishes. Six wonderful
days of peace and dialogue. Before and after Onerahi, I spent several days with
the Brothers in Auckland. New Zealand is, indeed, paradise on earth. Beautiful
virgin country, now being bought up by Japanese and others. It was winter down
under, but fortunately temperatures in New Zealand and in Sydney, Australia,
were mild, about 50-60F. St. Joseph's College in Sydney is a showcase of
secondary education in Australia. It puts many a university college in the USA to
shame with its outstanding academic, cultural, and athletic facilities.
The flight from Sydney to Bangkok to Athens took some 19 hours, followed by
an eight hour layover in Athens and very tight security before boarding for Tel
Aviv. The only stop where there were no Marist Brothers was Jerusalem. At the
Franciscan hostel at New Gate/Jaffa Gate I made good friends, but I wanted
primarily to see Jerusalem and Bethlehem and to pray and meditate; and that is
what I did. And I visited Vad Yashem, where the Marist Brothers have their tree
and plaque for having helped several dozen Jews in Hungary escape the
Holocaust.
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On June 29th, I flew to Paris where I spent six days catching up with friends and
alums and with shopping for books and realia. Then I was off to Madrid on July
5th for a week with my brother Ernie and his wife Alicia; their children Amaya
and Diego were off with friends backpacking through Eastern and Western
Europe for the month. We had a superb dinner to celebrate birthdays and
wedding anniversary. That capped a great cool week in Madrid. Yes, cool in July
in Madrid. Unbelieveable!
Back in the USA, in Lawrence, there was an August 1st family celebration of my
Golden Jubilee, where all the nephews and nieces and boyhood friends gathered
for another very good time.
A bright spot in our life at Marist College these days is the weekly dinners in my
apartment with the Brothers on campus: Brothers Paul Ambrose, Richard
Rancourt, Don Kelly in math, Greg DelaNoy in English, Joe Sacino in
Management Studies, and Tom Delaney, mentor. Joining us on occasion are Br.
MichaelWilliams, Campus Ministry, and Br. John Nash, Counseling Services.
(Marist College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601; 911--575-3040)
MARIST FROM MAINLAND CHINA AT CHAPTER:
Thanks to Br. Leonard Voegtle
A Brother from inside China was able to get a passport and visa to be with us as
an observer at the recent chapter. He is the youngest Brother left there. He told
us some of his story: "My name is Norbert. I am a Marist Brother from
communist China. No amount of words can adequately recount the situation of
the Brothers in China. I shall thus confine myself to relating my own experiences
and feelings.
"In 1958 I was forced to join a factory as an electrician.I remained there until my
retirement last December on reaching my 60th birthday. During the Cultural
Revolution in 1966 I was persecuted because I was falsely accused of having a
radio transmitter and a gun to carry out anti-communist activities. My fellow
worker had me arrested and locked in the latrine which was covered with a
makeshift board. During the day I had to reflect and write reports about my life
history, my association with the Brothers, and the wrongdoings I had committed
against "the people."
At night I was subjected to interrogations and was not allowed to sleep. I only
managed to catch an occasional cat-nap. At times I was beaten.
"Life was uncertain and horrifying, as there was every possibility of being
executed. There were people who were summarily put to death without any
offense or accusation.My only support was Our Lord Jesus, his own false
accusations and his crucifixion. My religious faith enabled me to face false
witnesses and imminent death without fear.
"Unable to uncover any evidence against me, they released me after two months.
I was then put under house arrest. Every one of my activities was monitored and
was controlled. I was housed in a room nine feet by fifteen, with seven other
people. I could only say a few short prayers lying in bed at night. This lasted ten
years. At times I had to hang around my neck a two foot square wooden board
with the inscription "Reactionary Catholic Brother," and then to parade through
the streets. People jeered and hurled false accusations and insults at me.
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"My sufferings, however, were light in comparison to those that other Brothers
went through. Some were found hung upside down by their feet at night in
warehouses. Others were starved to death, and others had to scrounge for leaves
and roots to keep alive. Words cannot really express what they have gone
through. It is they who deserve our respect and admiration, not I."
Leonard's follow-up: I'm sure the members of every other religious order in
China, as well as many dedicated Christian lay people, have similar stories to
tell. Our Brothers went to China from France in 1890. About a dozen French and
Chinese Brothers were killed during the Boxer Rebellion. By 1950 there were
some 259 men in the Chinese province, most of them were locals. The
Europeans were expelled. Many of the Chinese who could, fled the country.
Some abandoned religious life, but about 60 remained, and all of them
eventually wound up in prison for up to 30 years. Eleven are still alive, all are
retired, living with their families or in small communities. We had no contact
with them for over 30 years, but Charles Howard managed to see them all last
year. Now the Brothers from outside go home regularly to visit.
FROM JOHN WESP ( '65):Thanks for including my name on your mailing list.I
have lost touch with most of the Marist family. I do see Bill White about once a
year. I saw Bob Joyce until the last ten years. I have not seen Bill Parker for five
years or Jim Guldner for 14. years or Brian Levens for eight years or Ron
Gillespie for four years. Anyway the letters are great (82 Main Avenue,
Centereach, N. Y. 11720)
BR. RONALD MARCELLIN POCHINTESTA ('57) R.I.P.
from Br. James Maher ('53)
As you know Br. Ronald Marcellin passed away last June. He had become a
legend with our students at Molloy and was highly esteemed by the members of
the faculty. Ron asked that I speak at his Mass. I'm enclosing the memories I
shared with his friends in a standing room only church. Perhaps you can select a
few excerpts for the newsletter. "Ronald Marcellin was always full of energy,
full of life. There was even a special rhythm and bounce in his walk. One would
think musical tunes constantly played in his head; periodically he would burst
into song, snapping his fingers to the tempo. He was always on the move,
singing, enjoying life, enjoying people.
Ron attributed the tiredness that was plaguing him for several weeks to a bug.
He had not seen a doctor for close to 40 years. Later Dr. DeAngelis told me, "I
had never seen him before, but I took one look at him in the waiting room and I
knew that this was a very sick man." The dreaded C word; cancer had started to
spread through his entire system. From that point on, his most reliable friend, Br.
John Raeihle, took care of his every need. Should you be looking for an
intercessor on the other side of life, one who really enjoys helping others, pray to
Ron Marcellin. I can picture him standing before Cod last Saturday morning
saying, "Let's not waste time reviewing my life, put me to work."'
Ron first came to Molloy in 1959, the year after I did. The tone of my math and
English classes was, as it still is, no nonsense, we're here to work. The tone of
Ron's language class was, we're going to have a great experience together. I
envied him and wanted to be more like him. One day I spied on his class from
the hallway and watched him sitting on top of Molloy's four foot high teacher's
deak, dangling his feet, and laughing and enjoying himself, The students were
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orderly and obviously enjoying themselves, too. When I tried to adjust my style,
it was like putting on a suit five sizes too big. It just didn't fit.
Ron had a wonderful gift. Some of the alumni I spoke with put it so well. "He
was one who could really translate love into a classroom." Ron never had a
problem student. Teachers who replaced him couldn't believe their eyes. John
Raeihle said, "Kids sensed that Ron respected them, that he always saw the good
in them. He connected with them in so many ways ... their music, their clothes,
their grooming, their movies, their lingo. Even at 59 he was expert on every
facet of adolescence.
When Ron returned to Molloyin 1977 he asked if he could have the janitor's
room in the basement so that his classroom activities would not intrude upon
other classes. Last Saturday night I decided to visit this venerable shrine known
as "the Cave." God, what an ugly place! Unsightly grey heating ducts crisscross
the ceiling. The walls are a sick pistacchio green. There is still a slop sink in the
corner. Two old worn out couches and twenty-four plastic chairs are strewn
about in this 12 by 12 windowless room. Depressing! but not for the students
who experienced Ronald Marcellin in this room.
One time, as my duty required, I decided to visit and to evaluate the learning
atmosphere in "the Cave." Ron promptly introduced me to the class and invited
me to explain to the students the role and experiences of an administrator at
Molloy. After, he laughed that I wouldn't be able to give him a bad evaluation
without criticizing my own presentation. That was my last visit to "the Cave" ...
until Saturday. No amount of money can replace a Ron Marcellin in a school. As
one student put it, "He made me realize what "Non Scholae Sed vitae" really
means. He was unique. Truly God's channel of love to us.(Molloy, 83-53 Manton
St., Jamaica, N. Y. 11435; 718-441-2100)
BROTHER FROM ANGOLA (AT CHAPTER):
Thanks to Br. Leonard Voegtle
One day at the recent chapter we listened to the superior of our Brothers in
Angola, where the civil war, like those in so many other countries, has nearly
come to a halt any number of times, and then resumed again in full fury because
one warlord or another thinks that the peace settlement isn't giving him a big
enough slice of the pie! The story of the sufferings and incredible resilience of
the Brothers (several of whom are hostages of one of the rebel factions) and of
the whole Angolan people was moving enough, but the video he had was gut
wrenching. Filmed during the battle for one of the major towns, it would
certainly never have played on commercial TV in the States; the scenes of
violence, death, mutilation and other forms of human agony were horrible, all
the more so for being "the real thing" and not some Hollywood fantasy.
FROM MIKE (Michael Vincent) KELLY ('50): Thanks for your continuing
efforts to keep us all together through Marists All. I thought you might be
interested in hearing that I met with one of our far-off members recently. During
a trip to Japan in early October I had the pleasure of meeting with Rick Jambor
(Anthony Dominic '50) and his charming wife, Kimiko. We only had time for a
short visit regrettably. We met in the Onaka railway station, where we feasted on
Italian food, Japanese style. It was a big improvement over other meals which
included raw fish livers, cod scales, shrimp eaten from head to tail. However,
there was always the "American breakfast" to keep us from going completely
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native. For that, all you needed was $42, and you could leave the table happy,
but much poorer.
It was great seeing Rick again after so many years. As he said, it was like the
good old days, "as if not a day had passed since our last meeting." For the
benefit of those who do not know, Rick is teaching at a women's college and
appears to be doing a marvelous job joining two cultures that increasingly must
learn to survive together in the global market place.
My trip to Japan was sponsered by the U.S. Government which requested an
evaluation of the status of high-volume, low-cost electronic technology in Japan.
I headed a committee of twelve people who visited about fifteen Japanese
companies over eight days. When you see a Sony factory building camcorders,
with almost no people present, you have a much better appreciation of why
Japan is dominating the consumer electronic business. The United States has a
major challenge to face if it is to compete in future electronic based industries.
I have been trying to convince the academic community at Georgia Tech that the
value systems of yesterday just don't cut the mustard when preparing students
for tomorrow's work environment. It may not surprise you to hear that nobody
wants to change ... except the President of Tech, and he expects to be fired
within the next few months. So much for change!
Keep up the good work. (575 Mt. Vernon Highway, Atlanta, Ga. 30327)
FROM BOB FALISEY ('65): Approximately a week ago, my mother had the
opportunity to meet Brother Godfrey Robertson at the New York Opera. The
discussion came onto the Marist Brothers, and she was informed by Br. Godfrey
that you were involved with coordinating the organization of former Marists. I
would be very much interested in getting involved with old friends and would be
pleased to have you put me on your mailing list. I was in the Marist Tyngsboro
Novitiate in 1964-66. That experience had a very positive effect on my life. (529
Washington Boulevard, #595, Marina del Rey, Ca. 90292; 310-305-1015)
JUBILARIANS: 1994
50th: Br. John Francis Colbert, 4300 Murdock Avenue, Bronx, N. Y. 10466
50th: Br. Alphonse Louis Dubois, 3000 SW 87th Avenue, Miami, F1. 33165
50th: Br. Adolph Leo, Box 197, Esopus, New York, 12429
50th: Br. Edward Francis Vollmer, Box 95, Bellport, New York, 11713
55th: Br. Conan Vincent Dineen, Box 428, Lawrence, Ma. 01841
55th: Br. Stephen Urban Minogue, 101-40 92nd Street, Ozone Park, New York,
11416
55th: Br. Joseph Teston, 1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, Ga. 30904
60th: Br. Clement Legare, 4200 West 115th Street, Chicago, Il. 60655
60th: Br. Philip McEnaney, 4200 West 115th Street, Chicago, 11. 60655
65th: Br. Emile Michael Bernard, 26 Leeds Terrace, Lawrence, Ma. 01843
FROM ED JENNINGS ('65): A photograph and a Christmas card are two
treasured mementos that I have of Br. John Berchmans. In the photo I am
standing with Brother John in front of the Esopus Rec Hall fireplace. The aging
snapshot reveals the fact that I was extremely pleased to be photographed with
my juniorate prefect. Indeed., among his many talents Brother John was an
expert at making kids feel special.
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In later years, as an adult, I was again fortunate to spend time with Brother John.
For ten summers Br. Mike Driscoll and I volunteered, along with others, to work
with Berky on the Esopus property. Although we were nearing forty years of
age, we were still known as his boys, or more often as his slaves: He worked us
hard, but there was always much fun and good natured kidding in both
directions. Berky enjoyed "passing remarks" about the fact that Mike and I liked
to read during our free time. He would often cajole or inspire us into
accomplishing challenging tasks by telling us that there was "no danger," or with
a twinkle in his eye, asking us if we had the faith of the mustard seed. Mike and I
discontinued our volunteering around 1985 when we finally realized that we
were not kids any more and that we could no longer keep up with Brother John!
On the misty Saturday morning of September 18, 1993, my friend Rosemary and
I drove up to Esopus to attend Brother John's funeral service. The day was most
memorable:
Br. Stephen Urban delivered a masterful and heartfelt eulogy, and near the end of
the service a number of individuals shared humorous anecdotes about Berky.It
was a fitting tribute to a wonderful man.
I often think about Brother John, not only about the many ways he has
influenced me but perhaps more importantly about the ways he cheered and
encouraged me. The Christmas card from him contains a handwritten note: "Ed,
I miss your cheerful company. You are always welcome in Esopus even if you
read your damn book. Don't fail to come if you have a chance. Your close friend,
Br. John." Clearly, Berky had a way of making adults, too, feel special. (86-15
Broadway, Elmhurst, New York, 11373)
DECEASED:
Two Marist Brothers died this past November.
BR. STEPHEN EMILE FORGUES ('28) died in Lawrence of age and of
complications from pneumonia. "Bee" was nearly 88 years of age; he had
celebrated his 65th anniversary of profession in 1993.
BR. VICTOR EUGENE MENARD ('36) died in Miami several weeks after
sustaining a stroke.
"Eternal rest grant to them, 0 Lord, ..."
FROM DONALD (Brian Dennis) MULCARE ('57): Marists All's issue 23 was
one powerful piece of motivational material.The "pre-Mount reunion" issue and
the one that arrived today are outpourings of affirmation for the tremendous
value of this newsletter. It is always appreciated, especially when there are items
from or about friends.
Although I never had the opportunity to spend much time with Br. John
Berchmans, he was known to me through the frequent stories told by those who
revered him. Marists All has included some recent references. Sharing such
stories is important, for it may lead to the incorporation of these memories in a
biography of Brother John. His life should be recorded for future Marist family
members and for the world.
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I am not sure of all that is involved with the connection of Brother John with
Notre Dame. His burial coincided with a remarkable performance by the .team
he cheered. Brother John now has one of the best seats at all future Notre Dame
games and is no doubt helping in every way he can.
This has been a very "Marist" week for me. A member of my St. Agnes High
School class of 1956 called to stir up interest in the Alumni Association.He gave
me the phone number of another alumnus, whom I have not seen in more than 37
years, I called and was happy to hear how well that person was doing as a
Professor of Philosophy and Religion in a community college in Florida. He has
written a book and is looking for a publisher. There are surprisingly few
members of that class known to the alumni association. If anyone out there has
information on any St. Agnes alumni, the information could be passed to the
association at the new St. Agnes address: 555 West End Avenue, New York,
10024.
In one of the issues distributed in 1990 there was a note from Father Charles
Collins. He said that he was dying of cancer. If there was a subsequent story, I
missed it.
Can you add anything at this time? (Editors' note: We too have wondered about
Charlie's health, He is still on our mailing list, and there has been no "return to
sender.") Don Mulcare, 105 Long Road, Fairhaven, Ma. 02719)
FROM MARTHA "Judy" KAMMER: For some time I have wanted to say how I
have enjoyed the GMC picnics at the Mount. I have attended many of them, and
have met there many fine men and women. I have been particularly impressed
how most have continued in service-oriented fields. Especially deserving of
great admiration are some who have been lovingly heroic in caring for elderly,
incompacitated parents in their homes over extended periods of time. I
remember their stories, those of Marty Lang and Jack Duggan and Bob Reynolds
and those of their wives.
And I also want to say that there is something special about the many fine Marist
Brothers I have met. Over the past 25 years it has been my good fortune to
experience Marist simplicity, charity, and warm hospitality in all my Marist
encounters. I will never forget Jude Driscoll and Berky and Minn and Joe Abe
and the retired monks who were in Tyngsboro and Cold Springs in earlier years.
I have been welcomed by the Brothers in Poughkeepsie, in Esopus, in Lawrence,
in Bayonne, in Chicago, in Wheeling, in Augusta, as well as in Spain, in
Belgium, at the Generalate in Rome, and especially at the Hermitage in France. I
am sure that I could speak for the feminine element associated with the Greater
Marist Community in saying that we are grateful to the Brothers for their
pleasant acceptance of us and for their genuine kindness toward us, (476 La
Playa, Edgewater, Florida, 32141)
NEWS NOTES: The provincial office of the Poughkeepsie province has been
moved to 26 First Avenue, Pelham, N. Y. 10803; 914-738-0740. Br. John Malich
is acting provincial. The Esopus office continues at 1241 Kennedy Boulevard,
Bayonne, N. J. 07002; 201-823-1115. Br. John Klein is provincial.
David Cooney ('62) suffered an attack of cerebral malaria while in Ivory Coast
awaiting his plane to the States for his family visit. Once he was released from
the hospital, Br. Marty Ruane ('50) accompanied him home on December 23rd.
Both will remain in the States until the political situation is more stable in
Liberia.
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Br. Leonard Voegtle informs us that by a 4-1 vote the Vatican medical experts
decided that the cure of Br. Heriberto Weber in Uruguay was not miraculous, "so
we're back to square one in that department, with no other potential miracles in
the wings," for the canonization process of Blessed Champagnat.
Presently in Mary Immaculate Nursing Home in Lawrence are: Br. Wallace
(Charles Raymond) Hamel ('27), Br. Philip Bernard Gilbert ('31), and Br. Alcide
Ouellette. Ed (Edward Finian) Canavan ('50) is in Westchester Medical with
advanced diabetes.
JUBILARIANS: 1994
30th
Br. Timothy Brady
Br. Kevin Brogan
Br. Anthony Ciccolella
Br. Emil Denworth
Br. Michael Driscoll
Br. Michael Fisher
Br. Denis Hever
Br. Kenneth Hogan
Br. James Norton
Br. Thomas Petitte
Br. Frederick Sambor
Br. Henry Sawicki
Br. Joseph Scanlon
35th
Br. John Banz
Br. Ronald David
Br. Gerard Brereton
Br. John Cherry
Br. Robert Conley
Br. Joseph DiBenedetto
Br. Francis Garza
Br. John Herrmann
Br. Richard LaRose
Br. Benedict LoBalbo
35th
Br. John McDonagh
Br. John McDonnell
Br. William Mielike
Br. Raoul Molnar
Br. Michael Mullin
Br. John Nash
Br. Donald Nugent
Br. Edmund Sheehan
Br. James Stevens
Br. Michael Williams
40th
Br. Paul Bernard
Br. Dennis Dunne
Br. Charles Marcellin
Br. Joseph Maura
Br. Richard Shea
Br. Hugh Turley
45th
Br. James Gaffney
Br. James Kearney
Br. Thomas Lee
Br. Bernard Nolan
Br. Francis Ryan
Br. Francis Thomas
Br. Patrick Tyrell
EDITORS' NOTE: Much of what is in this issue of Marists All came to us
shortly after issue #25 was mailed in early November of 1993. Then all of a
sudden our mails dried up. However., as you see, with some difficulty we have
been able to come up with a full ten-page edition. We trust you will not allow
this drought to continue! We hope we can come out with an issue in May. Please
mail to David Kammer, 476 LaPlaya, Edgewater, Florida, 32141; 904-426-6349;
or to Gus Nolan % Marist College, Poughkeepsie, New York, 12601.
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ISSUE # 26
February 1994
FROM BR. LEONARD VOEGTLE ('50): Thanks for the most recent issue of
Marists All, which reached me in Rome, with the hint that I write something
about the chapter. This was my fourth participation in chapter since '67, as you
know, and by far it was the best in every respect. To begin with, the Generalate
itself is a much more livable place: new paint job, new heating system, new
windows, new kitchen, better and more abundant food served cafeteria style
from steam tables, real table cloths, several 24-hour-a-day "coffee bars" with
everything from expresso and cappuccino to soft drinks, fruit juices, and beer on
tap ... and in the chapter hall, carpeting, comfortable chairs, and rented state-of-
the-art translation and voting equipment.
The main corridor, where the portraits of the superiors general are hung, was
devoted to a series of displays. The first was of photos and other information
about our houses, schools, and other apostolates; the next was of Marist
publications and art work (including T-shirts and baseball caps) from around the
world.
Dress was very casual. Only two monks wore cassocks all the time, and neither
wore it as a "statement" or as "battle flag.." A few wore cassocks or suits to our
papal audience, but standard dress at home was sport shirts and slacks or shorts
depending on the weather. I guess the only uniformity in dress occurred the day
the U.S. provinces gave every capitulant a blue baseball cap with "MARIST"
embroidered on it in red and white! The sheafs of statistics we were given show
that most of us are still in schools; that more than half the monks live in
communities of fewer than ten; that our average age worldwide is 55.5
(Venezuela is youngest at 38.5, Switzerland oldest at 66.3); that Esopus averages
at 56.4, Poughkeepsie at 57.8; and that since '78 each U.S. province has
diminished by an average of four monks per year.
Spirit among the capitulants was the best I've ever seen. The overt or hidden
tensions and suspicions of past chapters had vanished, in large part I think,
because now we've all lived through the same cultural and religious upheaval,
and we're all facing the same challenges, as was evident from the strong
convergence of responses to the questions that arose in discussion groups and in
the assembly. A great help was that so many use English now as a second
language, and that so many of the "anglophones" also spoke Spanish and/or
French. Incidentally, there were twenty Marist College grads among the
capitulants, secretaries, translators, and permanent community.
On October 7th we elected our new superior general, a man from Spain named
Benito Arbues; he had been vicar. Our new vicar general is Sean Sammon,
provincial of Poughkeepsie. Ceremonies following the elections were very
moving, because of their solemnity and because of their symbolic links with the
past ... like the ringing of the big bell from our former mother house in
Grugliasco, which has announced the election of every new superior general
since 1907 ... like the procession from the chapter hall to the chapel with the
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relic of Marcellin and his favorite statue of "the Good Mother" being carried
ahead of us, followed immediately by Benito, Charles, and Basilio.
A week later, we elected eight councillors, two from the Spanish-speaking
group, one each from among the French, Portuguese, and English speakers, and
three more "at large." The end result was a young and well-balanced council.
The oldest is 56, the youngest is 42, their average age is 49.5. Only two were in
the previous administration. Three are from Europe (France, Britain, and Spain),
three from Latin America (Central America, Peru, and Brazil), two from North
America (Canada and the United States), one from Africa (a Spaniard from
Zambia and Kenya), and one from Oceania (an Australian who has also worked
in India). Only Claudino, the Brazilian, doesn't speak English; only Sean doesn't
speak French.
A Brother from inside China was able to get a passport and visa to be with us as
an observer. He told us some of his story (see later page of this newsletter). We
also listened to the superior of our Brothers in Angola, telling of the horrible
conditions there (see later page of this issue).
On a happier note, the first Haitian Marist Brother made first profession last
September. You already know that the first Liberian Marist made his profession
last June; two others from Liberia are presently in the inter-provincial novitiate
in Ghana. Recently the Brothers who returned to Hungary two years ago were
finally able to open a school in Gyor. And next September seven Brothers will
refound our work in Cuba; as you recall Castro put all 120 Marist Brothers
working in that country on two planes one day in 1959 and sent them off to
Miami! Cuba's loss was others' gain; those men eventually opened schools in
nearly every country in Central America.
Joining us on September 12th for evening prayer and a picnic supper in the
central courtyard was a Marist family gathering of about 300 strong: the whole
chapter of the Marist Fathers, the general councils of the Marist Sisters and of
the Marist Missionary Sisters, and a few Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions
(one of the forerunners of the Marist Missionary Sisters).
A group of men and women from a dozen or so countries spent a week with us,
sharing their impressions of the Brothers and their hopes for what we can offer
them, especially through the Champagnat Movement: spirituality, vision,
leadership, and collaboration in ministry. Many found them a real challenge and
inspiration.
Our papal audience this time was the best yet: no speeches! Papa shook hands
with each of us, gave us a simple blessing, and was off to his next group: the
bishops from New York State, whom we met on our way in. Ed Head and Pat
Ahern are graduates of our schools, and others know us from meetings and other
official contacts, so we Americans chatted with them for a time.
Meanwhile, the chapter commissions worked along, experiencing the usual
problems and tensions involved in trying to express common ideas in words that
suit our various cultures and languages. We agreed from the outset that we
wanted no more long documents, just one brief message to the whole
congregation and another to our lay associates and friends, accompanied by
equally brief "orientation papers" from each commission presenting their vision
of what we should be and what we should do for the next eight years.
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We completed our work on the 23rd of October, and I flew back on the 25th.
Since then I have been recovering from ,jet-lag and catching up with mail and
translating the Formation Guide, approved in draft form in 1985 and finalized at
this chapter. After spending the past weekend in Bellport, I'm back to the
tribunal tomorrow!
Thought you'd appreciate the enclosed memorial card pertaining to Berky, our
new intercessor in heaven ... and Notre Dame's also; no wonder the Irish are on a
winning streak!. (1241 Kennedy Boulevard, Bayonne, New Jersey, 07002; 201-
437-4115)
FROM DAN (Daniel Augustine) HANLEY ('57): About a month ago I was
invited to the home of Russell and Shirley Therriault. I enjoyed the evening
talking about what had happened to each of us during the last 33 years. Russell's
personality has not changed. He looks a little older, but he is still the confident,
humble person I remember from the Novitiate and the Scholasticate. His address
is: 814 Fleming Way, Pensacola, Florida, 32514. Little did we know, but our
sons had known each other for the last eight years. They are both into music and
have a mutual friend.
After he taught at Central Catholic High in Wheeling, West Virginia, Russell
joined the Marines and flew as a navigator in the reconnaissance version of the
F-4. He arrived in Vietnam about three months after I rotated back. During his
tour in the Marines, he did test out the F-4's Martin Baker ejection seat twice.
Russell said he had met another former Brother, a person in the Air Force, at the
Da Nang club.
Since the military, Russell has been teaching the 8th grade at a middle school in
Pensacola. In the beginning of 1993 he was hospitalized for five months with a
ruptured gall bladder. He dropped about fifty pounds, but is gradually regaining
his weight. He said he expects to start teaching again in January.
Russell told me that in the early 1980's Christopher Columbus High School
came to Pensacola to play a Class 5A football game. Our little Pensacola
Catholic High School is usually Class 2A and does not get to play any of the big
schools. It is the only Catholic high school in the Pensacola Tallahassee
missionary diocese in northwest Florida. (2731 Semoran Drive, Pensacola,
Florida, 32503)
FROM ROBERT (Joseph Kevin) COLLINS ('53): Three years since my first
blurb to Marists All when I promised a post Tyngsboro bio-sketch: First job out
of the monks was at the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey with studies at
Fordham at night. A cocktail or two before classes; in a year's time it was
cocktails any time ... and no more Port job or Fordham! The disease of
alcoholism that was killing my parents was beginning its work on me. Work in
construction seemed to be a wise move, as the money was good and drinking
was condoned.
Married a beautiful Yorkville "narrowback" in '63, Anne Kearns, and we were
blessed with Robert, Kevin, and Kathleen. By '74 the drinking was totally out of
control, and I was incapable of being either husband or father. Re-enter God ...
through that marvelous fellowship, Alcoholics Anonymous ... in August of 1974:
Both Anne and I have been sober, active members since, and life has been
beyond my wildest dreams.
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Anne is an alcoholism and drug counselor and a Eucharistic minister. I
completed college at Adelphi University and work as a steamfitter. I was an EAP
in my union for a time. For the last 14 years I've taught classes part time in the
state DWI program at Stony Brook University, and I love it. I am a lector in our
parish. Anne and I are the happy grandparents of Kiera, daughter of Kevin.
Through Marists All, I was re-connected with Br. Luke Driscoll, my teacher, my
mentor, my friend. Last May, Anne and I attended Brother Luke's 60th Marist
anniversary at Roselle Catholic. What a gift of a day'. Seeing Brothers Richie
Shea, Dan Grogam, Tom Delaney ... flooded me with memories of my Marist
past. Thank you all, for you are, indeed, the finest men I have ever met. "He who
sustains us is the God of strength."
(1 Kimberly Avenue, Farmingville, N. Y. 11738)
FROM BR. JOE BELANGER ('43): Truly a very eventful year, a blessed year,
was 1993. The Brothers celebrated us as Jubilarians on the first of May in
Roselle, and Cardinal O'Connor hosted us at Dunwoodie the following Saturday.
We had a big celebration at Marist College on May 15th with Mass and dinner
starting at 4 p.m. with over 150 relatives, alums, and friends joing in the
festivities.
On June 1st, I left for a trip to broaden my perspectives for my World Cultures
course. The Brothers in Kobe, Japan, were in finals, but I managed on my own
to see Shinsendo temple and garden in Kyoto and Himeji Castle south of Kobe.
My three days in Seoul, Korea, were the most revealing of the trip, because I
knew so little about Korea. With Br. Gerry Brereton guiding me everywhere, I
learned about the hundreds of Korean martyrs of the last century at Chol Tu San
hill, next to the Brothers' residence. No wonder the Korean people are so
religious. The Brothers have no schools in Korea, but they run retreat houses and
work in several leprosaria. I particularly enjoyed talking with all the Brothers.
The welcome everywhere was so warm. So many good people everywhere doing
so much good. A great feeling of solidarity.
My next stop was in New Zealand where I spent one week with Xavier Ryan,
former professor at Marist College, now working ecologically a 120-acre
compound with cattle, hundreds of trees, and a vegetable garden, and hosting
retreatants and lecturing periodically at colleges and parishes. Six wonderful
days of peace and dialogue. Before and after Onerahi, I spent several days with
the Brothers in Auckland. New Zealand is, indeed, paradise on earth. Beautiful
virgin country, now being bought up by Japanese and others. It was winter down
under, but fortunately temperatures in New Zealand and in Sydney, Australia,
were mild, about 50-60F. St. Joseph's College in Sydney is a showcase of
secondary education in Australia. It puts many a university college in the USA to
shame with its outstanding academic, cultural, and athletic facilities.
The flight from Sydney to Bangkok to Athens took some 19 hours, followed by
an eight hour layover in Athens and very tight security before boarding for Tel
Aviv. The only stop where there were no Marist Brothers was Jerusalem. At the
Franciscan hostel at New Gate/Jaffa Gate I made good friends, but I wanted
primarily to see Jerusalem and Bethlehem and to pray and meditate; and that is
what I did. And I visited Vad Yashem, where the Marist Brothers have their tree
and plaque for having helped several dozen Jews in Hungary escape the
Holocaust.
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On June 29th, I flew to Paris where I spent six days catching up with friends and
alums and with shopping for books and realia. Then I was off to Madrid on July
5th for a week with my brother Ernie and his wife Alicia; their children Amaya
and Diego were off with friends backpacking through Eastern and Western
Europe for the month. We had a superb dinner to celebrate birthdays and
wedding anniversary. That capped a great cool week in Madrid. Yes, cool in July
in Madrid. Unbelieveable!
Back in the USA, in Lawrence, there was an August 1st family celebration of my
Golden Jubilee, where all the nephews and nieces and boyhood friends gathered
for another very good time.
A bright spot in our life at Marist College these days is the weekly dinners in my
apartment with the Brothers on campus: Brothers Paul Ambrose, Richard
Rancourt, Don Kelly in math, Greg DelaNoy in English, Joe Sacino in
Management Studies, and Tom Delaney, mentor. Joining us on occasion are Br.
MichaelWilliams, Campus Ministry, and Br. John Nash, Counseling Services.
(Marist College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601; 911--575-3040)
MARIST FROM MAINLAND CHINA AT CHAPTER:
Thanks to Br. Leonard Voegtle
A Brother from inside China was able to get a passport and visa to be with us as
an observer at the recent chapter. He is the youngest Brother left there. He told
us some of his story: "My name is Norbert. I am a Marist Brother from
communist China. No amount of words can adequately recount the situation of
the Brothers in China. I shall thus confine myself to relating my own experiences
and feelings.
"In 1958 I was forced to join a factory as an electrician.I remained there until my
retirement last December on reaching my 60th birthday. During the Cultural
Revolution in 1966 I was persecuted because I was falsely accused of having a
radio transmitter and a gun to carry out anti-communist activities. My fellow
worker had me arrested and locked in the latrine which was covered with a
makeshift board. During the day I had to reflect and write reports about my life
history, my association with the Brothers, and the wrongdoings I had committed
against "the people."
At night I was subjected to interrogations and was not allowed to sleep. I only
managed to catch an occasional cat-nap. At times I was beaten.
"Life was uncertain and horrifying, as there was every possibility of being
executed. There were people who were summarily put to death without any
offense or accusation.My only support was Our Lord Jesus, his own false
accusations and his crucifixion. My religious faith enabled me to face false
witnesses and imminent death without fear.
"Unable to uncover any evidence against me, they released me after two months.
I was then put under house arrest. Every one of my activities was monitored and
was controlled. I was housed in a room nine feet by fifteen, with seven other
people. I could only say a few short prayers lying in bed at night. This lasted ten
years. At times I had to hang around my neck a two foot square wooden board
with the inscription "Reactionary Catholic Brother," and then to parade through
the streets. People jeered and hurled false accusations and insults at me.
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"My sufferings, however, were light in comparison to those that other Brothers
went through. Some were found hung upside down by their feet at night in
warehouses. Others were starved to death, and others had to scrounge for leaves
and roots to keep alive. Words cannot really express what they have gone
through. It is they who deserve our respect and admiration, not I."
Leonard's follow-up: I'm sure the members of every other religious order in
China, as well as many dedicated Christian lay people, have similar stories to
tell. Our Brothers went to China from France in 1890. About a dozen French and
Chinese Brothers were killed during the Boxer Rebellion. By 1950 there were
some 259 men in the Chinese province, most of them were locals. The
Europeans were expelled. Many of the Chinese who could, fled the country.
Some abandoned religious life, but about 60 remained, and all of them
eventually wound up in prison for up to 30 years. Eleven are still alive, all are
retired, living with their families or in small communities. We had no contact
with them for over 30 years, but Charles Howard managed to see them all last
year. Now the Brothers from outside go home regularly to visit.
FROM JOHN WESP ( '65):Thanks for including my name on your mailing list.I
have lost touch with most of the Marist family. I do see Bill White about once a
year. I saw Bob Joyce until the last ten years. I have not seen Bill Parker for five
years or Jim Guldner for 14. years or Brian Levens for eight years or Ron
Gillespie for four years. Anyway the letters are great (82 Main Avenue,
Centereach, N. Y. 11720)
BR. RONALD MARCELLIN POCHINTESTA ('57) R.I.P.
from Br. James Maher ('53)
As you know Br. Ronald Marcellin passed away last June. He had become a
legend with our students at Molloy and was highly esteemed by the members of
the faculty. Ron asked that I speak at his Mass. I'm enclosing the memories I
shared with his friends in a standing room only church. Perhaps you can select a
few excerpts for the newsletter. "Ronald Marcellin was always full of energy,
full of life. There was even a special rhythm and bounce in his walk. One would
think musical tunes constantly played in his head; periodically he would burst
into song, snapping his fingers to the tempo. He was always on the move,
singing, enjoying life, enjoying people.
Ron attributed the tiredness that was plaguing him for several weeks to a bug.
He had not seen a doctor for close to 40 years. Later Dr. DeAngelis told me, "I
had never seen him before, but I took one look at him in the waiting room and I
knew that this was a very sick man." The dreaded C word; cancer had started to
spread through his entire system. From that point on, his most reliable friend, Br.
John Raeihle, took care of his every need. Should you be looking for an
intercessor on the other side of life, one who really enjoys helping others, pray to
Ron Marcellin. I can picture him standing before Cod last Saturday morning
saying, "Let's not waste time reviewing my life, put me to work."'
Ron first came to Molloy in 1959, the year after I did. The tone of my math and
English classes was, as it still is, no nonsense, we're here to work. The tone of
Ron's language class was, we're going to have a great experience together. I
envied him and wanted to be more like him. One day I spied on his class from
the hallway and watched him sitting on top of Molloy's four foot high teacher's
deak, dangling his feet, and laughing and enjoying himself, The students were
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orderly and obviously enjoying themselves, too. When I tried to adjust my style,
it was like putting on a suit five sizes too big. It just didn't fit.
Ron had a wonderful gift. Some of the alumni I spoke with put it so well. "He
was one who could really translate love into a classroom." Ron never had a
problem student. Teachers who replaced him couldn't believe their eyes. John
Raeihle said, "Kids sensed that Ron respected them, that he always saw the good
in them. He connected with them in so many ways ... their music, their clothes,
their grooming, their movies, their lingo. Even at 59 he was expert on every
facet of adolescence.
When Ron returned to Molloyin 1977 he asked if he could have the janitor's
room in the basement so that his classroom activities would not intrude upon
other classes. Last Saturday night I decided to visit this venerable shrine known
as "the Cave." God, what an ugly place! Unsightly grey heating ducts crisscross
the ceiling. The walls are a sick pistacchio green. There is still a slop sink in the
corner. Two old worn out couches and twenty-four plastic chairs are strewn
about in this 12 by 12 windowless room. Depressing! but not for the students
who experienced Ronald Marcellin in this room.
One time, as my duty required, I decided to visit and to evaluate the learning
atmosphere in "the Cave." Ron promptly introduced me to the class and invited
me to explain to the students the role and experiences of an administrator at
Molloy. After, he laughed that I wouldn't be able to give him a bad evaluation
without criticizing my own presentation. That was my last visit to "the Cave" ...
until Saturday. No amount of money can replace a Ron Marcellin in a school. As
one student put it, "He made me realize what "Non Scholae Sed vitae" really
means. He was unique. Truly God's channel of love to us.(Molloy, 83-53 Manton
St., Jamaica, N. Y. 11435; 718-441-2100)
BROTHER FROM ANGOLA (AT CHAPTER):
Thanks to Br. Leonard Voegtle
One day at the recent chapter we listened to the superior of our Brothers in
Angola, where the civil war, like those in so many other countries, has nearly
come to a halt any number of times, and then resumed again in full fury because
one warlord or another thinks that the peace settlement isn't giving him a big
enough slice of the pie! The story of the sufferings and incredible resilience of
the Brothers (several of whom are hostages of one of the rebel factions) and of
the whole Angolan people was moving enough, but the video he had was gut
wrenching. Filmed during the battle for one of the major towns, it would
certainly never have played on commercial TV in the States; the scenes of
violence, death, mutilation and other forms of human agony were horrible, all
the more so for being "the real thing" and not some Hollywood fantasy.
FROM MIKE (Michael Vincent) KELLY ('50): Thanks for your continuing
efforts to keep us all together through Marists All. I thought you might be
interested in hearing that I met with one of our far-off members recently. During
a trip to Japan in early October I had the pleasure of meeting with Rick Jambor
(Anthony Dominic '50) and his charming wife, Kimiko. We only had time for a
short visit regrettably. We met in the Onaka railway station, where we feasted on
Italian food, Japanese style. It was a big improvement over other meals which
included raw fish livers, cod scales, shrimp eaten from head to tail. However,
there was always the "American breakfast" to keep us from going completely
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native. For that, all you needed was $42, and you could leave the table happy,
but much poorer.
It was great seeing Rick again after so many years. As he said, it was like the
good old days, "as if not a day had passed since our last meeting." For the
benefit of those who do not know, Rick is teaching at a women's college and
appears to be doing a marvelous job joining two cultures that increasingly must
learn to survive together in the global market place.
My trip to Japan was sponsered by the U.S. Government which requested an
evaluation of the status of high-volume, low-cost electronic technology in Japan.
I headed a committee of twelve people who visited about fifteen Japanese
companies over eight days. When you see a Sony factory building camcorders,
with almost no people present, you have a much better appreciation of why
Japan is dominating the consumer electronic business. The United States has a
major challenge to face if it is to compete in future electronic based industries.
I have been trying to convince the academic community at Georgia Tech that the
value systems of yesterday just don't cut the mustard when preparing students
for tomorrow's work environment. It may not surprise you to hear that nobody
wants to change ... except the President of Tech, and he expects to be fired
within the next few months. So much for change!
Keep up the good work. (575 Mt. Vernon Highway, Atlanta, Ga. 30327)
FROM BOB FALISEY ('65): Approximately a week ago, my mother had the
opportunity to meet Brother Godfrey Robertson at the New York Opera. The
discussion came onto the Marist Brothers, and she was informed by Br. Godfrey
that you were involved with coordinating the organization of former Marists. I
would be very much interested in getting involved with old friends and would be
pleased to have you put me on your mailing list. I was in the Marist Tyngsboro
Novitiate in 1964-66. That experience had a very positive effect on my life. (529
Washington Boulevard, #595, Marina del Rey, Ca. 90292; 310-305-1015)
JUBILARIANS: 1994
50th: Br. John Francis Colbert, 4300 Murdock Avenue, Bronx, N. Y. 10466
50th: Br. Alphonse Louis Dubois, 3000 SW 87th Avenue, Miami, F1. 33165
50th: Br. Adolph Leo, Box 197, Esopus, New York, 12429
50th: Br. Edward Francis Vollmer, Box 95, Bellport, New York, 11713
55th: Br. Conan Vincent Dineen, Box 428, Lawrence, Ma. 01841
55th: Br. Stephen Urban Minogue, 101-40 92nd Street, Ozone Park, New York,
11416
55th: Br. Joseph Teston, 1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, Ga. 30904
60th: Br. Clement Legare, 4200 West 115th Street, Chicago, Il. 60655
60th: Br. Philip McEnaney, 4200 West 115th Street, Chicago, 11. 60655
65th: Br. Emile Michael Bernard, 26 Leeds Terrace, Lawrence, Ma. 01843
FROM ED JENNINGS ('65): A photograph and a Christmas card are two
treasured mementos that I have of Br. John Berchmans. In the photo I am
standing with Brother John in front of the Esopus Rec Hall fireplace. The aging
snapshot reveals the fact that I was extremely pleased to be photographed with
my juniorate prefect. Indeed., among his many talents Brother John was an
expert at making kids feel special.
6/22/2021
Newsletter # 26
https://academic2.marist.edu/foy/maristsall/newsletters/newsletter26.html
9/11
In later years, as an adult, I was again fortunate to spend time with Brother John.
For ten summers Br. Mike Driscoll and I volunteered, along with others, to work
with Berky on the Esopus property. Although we were nearing forty years of
age, we were still known as his boys, or more often as his slaves: He worked us
hard, but there was always much fun and good natured kidding in both
directions. Berky enjoyed "passing remarks" about the fact that Mike and I liked
to read during our free time. He would often cajole or inspire us into
accomplishing challenging tasks by telling us that there was "no danger," or with
a twinkle in his eye, asking us if we had the faith of the mustard seed. Mike and I
discontinued our volunteering around 1985 when we finally realized that we
were not kids any more and that we could no longer keep up with Brother John!
On the misty Saturday morning of September 18, 1993, my friend Rosemary and
I drove up to Esopus to attend Brother John's funeral service. The day was most
memorable:
Br. Stephen Urban delivered a masterful and heartfelt eulogy, and near the end of
the service a number of individuals shared humorous anecdotes about Berky.It
was a fitting tribute to a wonderful man.
I often think about Brother John, not only about the many ways he has
influenced me but perhaps more importantly about the ways he cheered and
encouraged me. The Christmas card from him contains a handwritten note: "Ed,
I miss your cheerful company. You are always welcome in Esopus even if you
read your damn book. Don't fail to come if you have a chance. Your close friend,
Br. John." Clearly, Berky had a way of making adults, too, feel special. (86-15
Broadway, Elmhurst, New York, 11373)
DECEASED:
Two Marist Brothers died this past November.
BR. STEPHEN EMILE FORGUES ('28) died in Lawrence of age and of
complications from pneumonia. "Bee" was nearly 88 years of age; he had
celebrated his 65th anniversary of profession in 1993.
BR. VICTOR EUGENE MENARD ('36) died in Miami several weeks after
sustaining a stroke.
"Eternal rest grant to them, 0 Lord, ..."
FROM DONALD (Brian Dennis) MULCARE ('57): Marists All's issue 23 was
one powerful piece of motivational material.The "pre-Mount reunion" issue and
the one that arrived today are outpourings of affirmation for the tremendous
value of this newsletter. It is always appreciated, especially when there are items
from or about friends.
Although I never had the opportunity to spend much time with Br. John
Berchmans, he was known to me through the frequent stories told by those who
revered him. Marists All has included some recent references. Sharing such
stories is important, for it may lead to the incorporation of these memories in a
biography of Brother John. His life should be recorded for future Marist family
members and for the world.
6/22/2021
Newsletter # 26
https://academic2.marist.edu/foy/maristsall/newsletters/newsletter26.html
10/11
I am not sure of all that is involved with the connection of Brother John with
Notre Dame. His burial coincided with a remarkable performance by the .team
he cheered. Brother John now has one of the best seats at all future Notre Dame
games and is no doubt helping in every way he can.
This has been a very "Marist" week for me. A member of my St. Agnes High
School class of 1956 called to stir up interest in the Alumni Association.He gave
me the phone number of another alumnus, whom I have not seen in more than 37
years, I called and was happy to hear how well that person was doing as a
Professor of Philosophy and Religion in a community college in Florida. He has
written a book and is looking for a publisher. There are surprisingly few
members of that class known to the alumni association. If anyone out there has
information on any St. Agnes alumni, the information could be passed to the
association at the new St. Agnes address: 555 West End Avenue, New York,
10024.
In one of the issues distributed in 1990 there was a note from Father Charles
Collins. He said that he was dying of cancer. If there was a subsequent story, I
missed it.
Can you add anything at this time? (Editors' note: We too have wondered about
Charlie's health, He is still on our mailing list, and there has been no "return to
sender.") Don Mulcare, 105 Long Road, Fairhaven, Ma. 02719)
FROM MARTHA "Judy" KAMMER: For some time I have wanted to say how I
have enjoyed the GMC picnics at the Mount. I have attended many of them, and
have met there many fine men and women. I have been particularly impressed
how most have continued in service-oriented fields. Especially deserving of
great admiration are some who have been lovingly heroic in caring for elderly,
incompacitated parents in their homes over extended periods of time. I
remember their stories, those of Marty Lang and Jack Duggan and Bob Reynolds
and those of their wives.
And I also want to say that there is something special about the many fine Marist
Brothers I have met. Over the past 25 years it has been my good fortune to
experience Marist simplicity, charity, and warm hospitality in all my Marist
encounters. I will never forget Jude Driscoll and Berky and Minn and Joe Abe
and the retired monks who were in Tyngsboro and Cold Springs in earlier years.
I have been welcomed by the Brothers in Poughkeepsie, in Esopus, in Lawrence,
in Bayonne, in Chicago, in Wheeling, in Augusta, as well as in Spain, in
Belgium, at the Generalate in Rome, and especially at the Hermitage in France. I
am sure that I could speak for the feminine element associated with the Greater
Marist Community in saying that we are grateful to the Brothers for their
pleasant acceptance of us and for their genuine kindness toward us, (476 La
Playa, Edgewater, Florida, 32141)
NEWS NOTES: The provincial office of the Poughkeepsie province has been
moved to 26 First Avenue, Pelham, N. Y. 10803; 914-738-0740. Br. John Malich
is acting provincial. The Esopus office continues at 1241 Kennedy Boulevard,
Bayonne, N. J. 07002; 201-823-1115. Br. John Klein is provincial.
David Cooney ('62) suffered an attack of cerebral malaria while in Ivory Coast
awaiting his plane to the States for his family visit. Once he was released from
the hospital, Br. Marty Ruane ('50) accompanied him home on December 23rd.
Both will remain in the States until the political situation is more stable in
Liberia.
6/22/2021
Newsletter # 26
https://academic2.marist.edu/foy/maristsall/newsletters/newsletter26.html
11/11
Br. Leonard Voegtle informs us that by a 4-1 vote the Vatican medical experts
decided that the cure of Br. Heriberto Weber in Uruguay was not miraculous, "so
we're back to square one in that department, with no other potential miracles in
the wings," for the canonization process of Blessed Champagnat.
Presently in Mary Immaculate Nursing Home in Lawrence are: Br. Wallace
(Charles Raymond) Hamel ('27), Br. Philip Bernard Gilbert ('31), and Br. Alcide
Ouellette. Ed (Edward Finian) Canavan ('50) is in Westchester Medical with
advanced diabetes.
JUBILARIANS: 1994
30th
Br. Timothy Brady
Br. Kevin Brogan
Br. Anthony Ciccolella
Br. Emil Denworth
Br. Michael Driscoll
Br. Michael Fisher
Br. Denis Hever
Br. Kenneth Hogan
Br. James Norton
Br. Thomas Petitte
Br. Frederick Sambor
Br. Henry Sawicki
Br. Joseph Scanlon
35th
Br. John Banz
Br. Ronald David
Br. Gerard Brereton
Br. John Cherry
Br. Robert Conley
Br. Joseph DiBenedetto
Br. Francis Garza
Br. John Herrmann
Br. Richard LaRose
Br. Benedict LoBalbo
35th
Br. John McDonagh
Br. John McDonnell
Br. William Mielike
Br. Raoul Molnar
Br. Michael Mullin
Br. John Nash
Br. Donald Nugent
Br. Edmund Sheehan
Br. James Stevens
Br. Michael Williams
40th
Br. Paul Bernard
Br. Dennis Dunne
Br. Charles Marcellin
Br. Joseph Maura
Br. Richard Shea
Br. Hugh Turley
45th
Br. James Gaffney
Br. James Kearney
Br. Thomas Lee
Br. Bernard Nolan
Br. Francis Ryan
Br. Francis Thomas
Br. Patrick Tyrell
EDITORS' NOTE: Much of what is in this issue of Marists All came to us
shortly after issue #25 was mailed in early November of 1993. Then all of a
sudden our mails dried up. However., as you see, with some difficulty we have
been able to come up with a full ten-page edition. We trust you will not allow
this drought to continue! We hope we can come out with an issue in May. Please
mail to David Kammer, 476 LaPlaya, Edgewater, Florida, 32141; 904-426-6349;
or to Gus Nolan % Marist College, Poughkeepsie, New York, 12601.
