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ISSUE # 13
May 1990
ON THE ROAD ... THROUGH CENTRAL AMERICA with Br. Sean Sammon,
Provincial, Pksie
The conference in Brazil addressing the Mission of the Marist Brother in the
Future has been excellent. Coming right after ten very moving days in
Guatemala and Nicaragua, it has left me with a great deal to think about.
Seven of us gathered in Guatemala City to visit the Province of Central America:
Renato Cruz (Philippines), John Lek (China), Julian Casey (Melbourne), Julio
Suaesi (Samoa), Jose Maria Ferre (editor of FMS), Phil Robert and me. Br. Juan
Arconada, who cooked at Esopus and taught at Molloy in the '60's was our very
able guide and translator.
In Guatemala, the Church has taken a preferential option for the poor. Its stand
has caused problems with the government and military: thirteen priests have
been killed, one woman religious, and three hundred catechists. The Brothers
own and operate two schools in Guatemala City. One is an impressive looking
place that served students from financially well off families. Good profits from
that school are used to support the other school which served poorer children in
the city. Once again, an old custom of our Institute is being put to good use.
In all, there are six Marist communities in Guatemala City. We visited one that
reminded me of Pine Ridge. Four Brothers there minister to the indigenous
people of the area. Their lifestyle is simple. They are learning the language and
assessing the pastoral needs of the area. Most of their current efforts focus on
training catechists who have a tremendous impact on the people. Those who
hold power are afraid of these simple teachers; they teach people about a gospel
that demands justice for all.
In Nicaragua there are two Marist communities, one at Esteli and one at
Condega.
Br. Mariano Blanco, age 42, shot to death by Samoza forces just before the
Sandanista victory is buried in the garden of the Brothers' house in Esteli. Both
communities operate schools that serve the poor.
The Brothers in Esteli help with a local health clinic and serve as pastors of the
local parish which is next to the school. A priest is rarely available, so the
Brothers baptize, marry, and bury the dead. They are also involved with basic
communities that have sprung up in the campesino villages. We spent a rainy
afternoon and evening with three of the Brothers travelling by jeep over the most
incredibly rocky roads I've ever seen or felt to a campesino village to celebrate
the Word and Eucharist. Once again, a Brother presided. An excellent teacher,
his homily was delightful; I was amazed at his ability to involve the entire
community in what was really a catechetical lesson. In Condega, besides their
school involvement the Brothers run a food pantry, and one serves on the local
Peace Committee set up recently by the revolutionary government. Just a few
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months ago it was dangerous to take the road from Esteli to Condega after dark.
The Contra forces often passed over it while movihg from one mountain area to
another.
The Brothers in Central America were incredibly gracious. The memory of their
generosity, midst poverty, will always stay with me. (Adapted from part of Br.
Sean's circular letter to Pksie Province)
FROM MARTY CULLINAN ('53): Aka Stephen Patrick; aka ......??? aka ....???
W'e'll leave those alone; either you remember or you don't! I really enjoy reading
Marists All. Thanks to Gus and Dave. It only took twelve issues for me to write;
I'm improving.
'Where does the time go? Twenty-seven years in the wink of an eye. I started
teaching in the Levittown schools in 1962. I became involved in the teachers'
union and was elected its president in 1968 ... and spent the next eighteen years
as president. I enjoyed every minute.Unfortunately we had a terrible strike in
1978, and I spent twenty-one days in Nassau County jail. One of my old bosses
from Bayonne was surprised it took so long to get me there. Jail wasn't too bad;
in fact, a former student of mine from St. Helena's was my cellmate. I left
teaching in 1988, and in July of the same year became a Commissioner of Labor
in Nassau County government, The job involves mediation, fact finding, and
arbitration. Right up my alley.
My wife Pat and I celebrated our 25th anniversary in October.Our son, Sean, is a
fine student and an excellent ice hockey player. He is a senior in high school and
is looking forward to college. In fact, Marist is high on his list, Our health is
fine, thank God. I've trimmed down to a lean, mean machine! If you believe that,
give me a call; I have a bridge for sale.
I see Dick Masterson very often.Our families are close. In fact, Pat and I are God
parents to one of his children. I think it is only one? Hard to keep track, he has so
many. Danny Grogan pops up every couple of years, stays a day or two, and is
off again. Last I heard he was in Oregon, He must have worked his way to the
Arctic Circle by now. Dick and I have promised to make the picnic next
September. Maybe we can organize a contingent from Long Island! (96 Bay
Drive, Massapequa, N. Y. 11758; 516-799-4593)
JUBILARIANS: 1990
70th: Br. Ernest Mary Drolet, 26 Leeds Terrace, Lawrence, Ma. 01843
70th: Br. Stephen Weber, Marist International School, Kobe, 654, Japan
65th: Br. Robert Koehly, 17475 South Dixie Highway, Miami, Fl. 33157
60th: Br. Norbert Cote, 3000 S.W. 87th Avenue, Miami, F1, 33165
60th: Br. Richard Michel, 1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, Ga. 30904
60th: Br. Paul Ambrose Fontaine, Marist College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601
60th: Br. William Gleason, Roselle Catholic, One Raritan Rd., Roselle, N. J.
07203
55th: Br. Gilbert Barry, 2790 S.W. 89th Avenue, Miami, Fl. 33165
55th: Br. Clement Gerard, 1241 Kennedy Boulevard, Bayonne, N. J. 07002
55th: Br. Juan Salvador, 83-53 Manton Street, Jamaica, N. Y. 11435
55th: Br. Herbert Daniel, 9506 Koronadal, South Cotabato, Philippines
50th: Br. Thomas Edward, 2790 S.W. 89th Avenue, Miami, Fl. 33165
50th: Br. James Brady, 1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, Ga. 30904
50th: Br. Victor Serna, 51 Clapham Avenue, Manhassett, N. Y, 11030
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50th: Br. Paul Urban Phillip, 101 St. Joseph Drive, Brownsville, Tx. 78520
50th: Br. Norbert Rodrique, 1900 Kingsley Road, Eugene, Or. 97401
FROM RICHARD COUT0 ('60): Thanks for the coaxing and cajoling to
write.Thank you also for the Marists all newsletter. I just finished reading
February's issue. It reminded me of the talented group of men with whom I
shared so many years. Jerry Worrell's writing still knocks me out.
Let me pick up my trail in 1969 when I left Central Catholic in Lawrence. I went
to the University of Kentucky, married in 1972, and taught at a college outside of
Cincinnati from 1972 to 1975. In 1975 I began directing a program at Vanderbilt
University that sent students into low income communities in the Appalachian
region and parts of the middle South to assist leaders there in the development of
services. I got my start in this at Mount Saint Michael when I assisted some
students organize a summer project to Eastern Kentucky in 1966. I left
Vanderbilt in 1988 to take a position at Tennessee State University. I teach policy
courses in health and human services in a graduate program of public
administration.
When I left Vanderbilt, I set out to explain to myself two problems of American
life: race and industrial labor. I just completed one book on race, Sick for Justice,
and expect to finish another this summer, Lifting the Veil. With those projects
completed I'll return to writing on coal mining and the Appalachian region. I
hope eventually to complete work I started on coal mining regions in
Appalachia, Wales, and South Africa. I became chairman of the Nashville
Coalition for the Homeless in 1988 and continue to serve in that role despite a
promise to myself that I would serve for only one year. I enjoy that work as well
as the work I do with the Commission on Religion in Appalachia. There is a
small, vibrant community of Catholics in the Appalachian region and in the
South, and I am pleased to work with their liberation of theology when I can.
My wife, Took, directs the Crisis Intervention Center. We have two boys, grown
and on their own more or less. Our daughter is a freshman at Father Ryan High
School where Vinny Kenny ('60) teaches. I visit Lawrence where my mother
resides. She had a stroke about ten years ago and has been paralyzed since.
Occasionally I see some monks at the Mary Immaculate Nursing Home when I
visit her. Ron Diss and I have managed to stay in touch. Thanks to you, I have
regained other dear and meaningful friends.
I am deeply indebted to the Marist Brothers. Certainly my life is different
because of the influence of the monks who taught me in high school and college.
Michael Kieran, William Murphy, and Ed Cashin, just to name a few, opened up
a world of ideas and possibilities and encouraged me to travel into it. I don't
think I have ever known a group of people as talented and interesting as the
monks I studied with at Marist College.
I have never regretted leaving the monks. In the plainest sense my departure
began a pursuit of the ideas on life and service I acquired there and with a style
that I learned from a set of remarkable men. (4627 Mountainview Drive,
Nashville, TN. 37215; 615-371-9482) .
SILVER JUBIILARIANS: 1990
Br. James Devine, 12212 Irving Avenue, Blue Island, IL. 60406
Br. Lawrence Gordon, 4200 West 115th Street, Chicago, IL. 60655
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Br. Richard Grenier, 4200 West 115th Street, Chicago, IL. 60655
Br. William Maske, 1241 Kennedy Blvd., Bayonne, N. J. 07002
Br. Joseph Matthews, 237 Jersey Street, Harrison, N. J. 07029
FROM BRIAN LONERGAN ('47): The recent death of "The Wall" my former
boss at the Mount and that of Kieran Thomas, my English teacher and dorm
prefect, added bold print to the necrology of the past two years. I went over the
list of old friends: Mark O'Rourke, Terry Jones, Joe Abel, Louis Frederick, Roch
Anthony, Linus William, Brendan Ginnity, Mike Shurkus, Clem Martin, and Bill
Kane among others. I felt a sudden loss of my Marist past which I had taken for
granted. But the calendar flips by faster and faster and ever more noticeably.
Soon those who were dying before you are in a way dying with you. This year I
lost four friends at work around my own age; and of course, more painfully, my
own son, Brian, who was only twenty-six. But all will rise again in glory, so the
sadness lifts slowly like the fleeting mists at dawn. What was it that the wise
man said in the Novitiate notes: "Life is short; eternity will never end."
Brother Turley of the Chicago development office reminds us that old age
enfolds quietly among the Marist "greybeards" as Linus William used to call
them. Recently I sent a small sum to the fund, Why had I not done so sooner to
say "Thank you" to all those who guided me along the Marist Way. Br. Turley's
friendly note reminds me that time not only heals all ills, it develops character
and presents it in the fullness of time.
I met Br. Smollen and Br. John Alexius at my custom's post at J.F.K. Great to see
old friends at the crossroads. Br. David Cooney came through when his dad
passed away, and I was privileged to help him quickly through Customs in the
wee hours of the morning. Lots of nefarious nuances here at Kennedy. Neither
the cloak of night nor the glare of day dissuades the movement of contraband.
The Avianca and Mexican flights disembark the greatest number of perpetrators,
while cargo from the Near East, Far East, Carib Islands, South America, and
Africa via freighters contain the most suspicious drug shipments.
Recently I coordinated our second annual Mass for deceased customs personnel
at J.F.K.I am deeply interested in continuing this tradition. As the Irish say, "I
didn't get this off the wall." My interest in the souls in purgatory dates back to
the Juniorate days in Esopus when Br. Joseph Cadroes and especially John
Patrick first encouraged devotion to the Holy Souls. Later at Marist it was Paul
Ambrose who often dipped into the Holy Well of favors through prayers for the
departed. Regards to all Marists.
Glad to read that note from "Doc" Blanchard who was a fullback in his own
right. I would like to hear about any gatherings in 1990 for Champagnat year, so
that I could see old friends once more. (3 Van Roo Ave., Merrick, N. Y. 11566)
CUBAN CONNECTION ... with VILLA MARISTA: In the March issue of
Reader's Digest an article by a John Barron says that when longtime Cuban
intelligence officer Juan Antonio Rodriguez defected to the United States, he
brought startling knowledge of Castro's secrets. The former double agent had
lived at Castro's new intelligence headquarters, the Villa Marista, "a baroque
marble and stone chateau that once served as Cuba's finest elementary and high
school. Rodriguez was no stranger to Villa Marista. He had spent the happiest
years of his life there under the tutelage of kindly Brothers. Surrounded by a tall
concrete wall, Villa Marista became a self-contained world of offices,
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interrogation rooms, cells, sleeping quarters, and dining facilities; it even had a
baseball field."
FROM GUS NOLAN ('48): My contribution to Marists All is going to deal less
with nostalgia and more with current happenings. I have enjoyed all the varied
accounts of Marist history as it has been recalled in these pages, but I would like
to talk more about this year's events. (I think my past is common knowledge. I
am currently teaching at Marist, Jep Lanning is my Chairman, Elizabeth is my
wife, we have no children that I know of, and my wiser, if not older brother,
Frank (Bernie), is Director of the Marist Retirement Home in Miami.
Marist College awarded me a sabbatical for the current academic year. I chose to
take the whole year in order to get a more comprehensive view of my field of
inquiry, Organizational Communication. From September through December I
worked at IBM, Kingston, in two different departments, communications and
education. In the Communications Department I studied IBM's internal network
and mastered the intricacies of communicating with 200,000 other IBMers. (One
might say, the telephone does that. True, but the telephone can't tell you that the
other received the message, nor will it store it for you, or give you a hard copy,
or allow for instant communication with two others or with a thousand others at
the same moment. Well, maybe the telephone will do some of the above, but the
computer is better ... IBM says so!)
IBM's Education Department is strictly dedicated to IBM teaching its own
employees a whole array of courses, mostly technical. My interest was to learn
how they instruct their own folks to be teachers. To that end I attended an
Instructor Development Seminar. A second activity arose when the IBM
teaching staff encouraged me to participate in brainstorming a program in
Technical Vitality. Simply stated: what can be done to make employees more
effective in the work place? The answer, as you already know, is complex. I am
not sure it will be answered this year ... or this decade. Stay tuned; watch for
IBM: TV Guide.
One of the most interesting projects was investigating what other IBM sites are
doing to help youngsters in K through 12 educational programs. This gave me a
chance to have instant contact through my computer with people all across the
country. Found the response to be amazing: more than 20,000 are now involved
in tutoring, specialized days for young inventors, all sorts of contests, and a
program on computers "Teaching Teachers."
I walked away from IBM impressed with their size, their contributions, and the
great people I met. Would I want to stay with IBM; rather not, I'll take Marist.
(50 South Randolph St., Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601; 454-6116)
FROM JIM GORMALLY ('65): The outpouring of interest in the newsletter is
truly phenomenal. I think it speaks to a need all of us have to renew connections
that mean so much. My experience at the GMC picnic in New York a few years
ago was quite positive as well. It validated an important but submerged part of
me. My clinical work has taken a spiritual direction. I find myself guiding my
patients in how serenity prayer can be a way to live their lives. So much depends
on our attitudes; if we put our problems in their proper perspective, they don't
seem to have the power to dominate us.
We have received some response to the newsletter announcement on our 1965-
66 reunion. If we actually pull it off, we may do a video so that those who cannot
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come may also have a memento. The reunion will be at the Mount Washington
Inn and Resort, a very posh place and certainly a beautiful setting. Thanks again
for your help on this. Peace and light. (806 East Franklin Avenue, Silver Springs,
Md. 20901; 301-587-6265)
FROM MARTIN LYDEN ('61): I have been reading every issue of Marists All
with great interest. A variety of feelings and memories have been stimulated by
each issue. I had been reluctant to submit anything, but a comment by my lawyer
during a recent meeting at which my wife Linda and I were revising our wills,
gave me the needed push. The lawyer suggested that causes and groups
important to us be designated as beneficiaries. When I asked myself what non
transient groups I had personal experience with, whose activities were
meaningful and valuable, the Marist Brothers were near the top of the list. I
know that the Marist Brothers have enriched the lives of many, including mine.
After teaching for three years at Union Catholic High School in New Jersey, I
left the order in 1967. I continued teaching high school math and science for five
more years, two at St. Raymond's in the Bronx, one at a public school on Long
Island, and the final two at the American International School in New Delhi,
India; in December of 1971 I travelled to Sri Lanka and was able to visit
Remigius and Cyril, who had been student Brother classmates of mine at Marist
College. In August of 1972 I began graduate studies at the State University of
New York at Albany. Two years later I became a school psychologist, and in
1978 I acquired a PhD. Now I have a private practice of psychology and a part
time consultancy with an agency that serves the developmentally disabled.
I am very happily married to the former Linda Cryan, no children yet. Since the
mid-70s I have become increasingly involved with Irish heritage. Linda and I
helped establish an Albany area Irish Musicians' Association and a Currach
(Irish fishing boat) Club. We love the Albany area and the nearby Adirondak
mountains where we have a summer camp. (1807 Ninth Street, Rensselaer, N. Y.
12144.; 518-449-7965)
NEWS NOTES: Br. Leo Joseph ('13), after over 75 years of active ministry, was
forced to go into retirement recently. He moved from the Mount to Leeds
Terrace this year. In all there are nine Brothers in that retirement home in
Lawrence. At present Br. John McDonagh ('59) is the Director looking after the
well-being of the retirees. The Provincial with his Council has decided on a four-
bedroom addition for Leeds.
Adrian Perreault sends us word that Paul Lozeau (Dominic Mary '52) is now
headmaster of Notre Dame Prep High School in Fitchburg, Mass. Paul lives at
(182 Woodland Street, Fitchburg, Ma. 01420; 508-342-1019).
Kenny Anderson, the young man who received so much attention as a freshman
starter in basketball for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, is a graduate of Molloy
High School, where he led the Stanners to a Catholic school title. This season
Kenny wore the inscription "Br. T" on his game shoes, a memorial to Br. Terence
Jones, his math teacher and mentor at Molloy. This bit was in a January issue of
Sports Illustrated, and was called to our attention by Paul Maloney.
Michael 0' Neil ('61) was on ESPN Scholastic Sports with a team of high school
athletes he took to the Soviet Union two years ago as part of President Reagan's
initiatives. He is also involved with an organization called Sports for
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Understanding. It is dedicated to cross cultural exchange through the medium of
sport and initiates young athletes into world citizenship.
FROM MICHAEL O'NEIL ('61): It's been 25 years since I wore the robe and the
bib. I had five years of laughs, tears, brotherhood, cold nights walking from the
mansion, forced marches, as well as many enjoyable softball and basketball
games. Yes, I was consistently late for morning prayer, just in front of Joe Cron
and Tom Byrnes; Br. Hilary's reverse psychology did not work when he put me
in charge of the bell. And I may have more extra sleep during meditation and
religious study than most, except for Billy Carroll. Chapter of faults was quite a
trip; Marty Lyons' gems have enlivened a few dull parties.
Where to begin. The best and the hook is that some people call me "The Doctor."
Yeah, that's right, this jock went and did it. I received my PhD in Counseling and
Behavioral Sciences in 1973. That has got to run some folks over. It was Br. Paul
who jacked me up in his office asking me if I was ever going to get on track ...
"Always the first to pick up that basketball and the last to put it down. What are
you doing here," he would say. I never really figured that out while I was there.
But since ... well Mary didn't born no fool; HE knew what HE was doing with
me. I was finding myself, building my self-esteem, preparing myself for HIS
work. After HIS basic training, HE connected me with Mary Ann Esposito from
Hackensack, New Jersey, a giver, a winner, a talent who lights up the space and
the people with whom she comes in contact, my best friend. Then HE blessed us
with Sean, Scott, Michael, Matt, and o yes, our little girl, Shannon. All healthy,
exciting scholar-athletes. They are also social beyond repair. Giving, loving
siblings following and living out the most important value that Mary Ann and I
live: "Thou shalt not hurt!" The sense of love, sharing and support can be seen
among their circle of friends and lovers. However, good drivers they are not.
Four driving teens equals ten accidents in 18 months. Not a scratch on anyone.
Thank you, Brother Leonard, I know that must be a result of your connection
above. I know He must also have plans for them. Sean, a junior at Holy Cross
with an internship in Harlem this semester. Scott a sophomore at Villanova ran
hoops for the homeless, and Michael Jr. at Notre Dame looking for a place to
give, all honor students with the study habits and discipline of their mom, thank
God. Matt, my flower child with so much to give, at 16 touching so many so
soon and Shannon sensitive, insightful and the best sister brothers can have, are
both adjusting to their new school, each on the honor roll and playing three
sports.
Michael Sr. what has he been up to? After teaching, deaning, and coaching in
Colleges (UConn, Holy Cross, U. of Akron, and Mt. St. Mary, '65-'75) I started a
Quality Training Consulting Company. Mary Ann and I, along with 15
associates, help organizations achieve quality, build effective management work
teams and develop leadership skills. We work with companies like Xerox,
Kodak, Texaco, and most recently the Philadelphia Flyers. I touch perhaps 3000
people.a year, and they touch many more. My arrow theory regarding the pain
we cause others and how to reduce it, gets shared in each session. My job is to
empower people at every level of the organization and to create a positive
quality of work life. The reason I exist, however, is to reduce the pain in the
world, and this vehicle has given me a way to make that happen.
We have just moved into a lovely home in a lovely town, Simsbury, Connecticut.
Close to ski slopes in Vermont, my new passion, and close to an airport, an old
habit. I have contact with Dennis DaRos ('66) of 12 Arrowhead Drive,
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Brunswick, Maine, 04011. Bill. Reger ('65) just sent a note; will reply soon Bill.
(20 Lucy Way, Simsbury, Ct. 06070; 203-651-0058)
FROM BILL KARGES ('68): The editor's note in the 12th issue has finally
prompted me to write after receiving all twelve issues. I've read many things
over the past three years about Marists, past, present, and future, and I've
enjoyed the news very much. Roy Mooney has stayed in touch with me and has
managed to fill in a good many blanks about people, places, and events.
Marist life impressed me a great deal in my early days in Wheeling, and as I
spent time at St. Agnes and Mt. St. Michael I genuinely grew to love working
with kids. They are so honest and open, compared with so many others we have
to deal with. Many of those "kids" have become good friends and stayed close
over the years.
After finishing a tour as Academic Dean at St. Agnes with a shattered leg, I
spent a year recuperating at Lourdes in the Guidance Department and teaching
Religion. At that point I was at a crossroads, and I decided to finish up a
doctorate in Ed Psych, try a little college teaching, and take a leave of absence. I
even attempted dealing with the business community as a consultant in human
resources.
To support a "vast debt," as George Leo might say, I decided to return to
education and my love of working with kids. As I signed out of the order, there
were many mixed feelings, but the experiences the order provided me with were
significant; though I was overconcerned with the future, I found seven job
possibilities in a short space of time, thanks to that varied experience. Having the
luxury of choice between administration and guidance, I chose to work as
Guidance Director at a Manhattan school where I was given the freedom to set
up a department from scratch, one that many predicted would fail due to the high
level of competitiveness and a lack of trust. My time with the Marists taught me
that these things could be overcome. Three years later, it's a growing, successful
and popular venture!
My experience with Marist life from 1968 through 1987, even during the very
hard times, is valued and continues to be a major part of my apostolate. Some
here even refer to me as "Brother Bill," though privately:. I'm very grateful for
the sharing of so many good people over the years, and for the opportunities
offered. My view of life and of man has been significantly influenced.(Collegiate
School, 370 West End Avenue, New York City, 10024)
DECEASED: Brother Regis James Creighton died in Miami on January 21,
1990.
Br. James had lived the Marist life for 62 years, as a teacher, as Master of
Juniors, and as an administrator. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Mount
St. Michael on the 24th of January.
Br. Angus Wilkinson ('48) died in his sleep Monday, April 2nd; he was 58 years
of age. The last few years Angus taught at Christopher Columbus in Miami. In
the seventies he had been Principal at Molloy High in Jamaica, Long Island.
On the same day, April 2nd, Br. Stephen Urban's brother died. Father Tom
Minogue was friendly with many Marists.
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David Cote, who was a novice in Tyngsboro in the early sixties, died of a heart
attack at his home in Mount Vernon on December 25th, 1989. David was 47. He
had graduated from Mt. St. Michael, and later served in intelligence for the army
during the Vietnam War.
FROM DOMINIC CAVALLERO (‘51): I went to bed this evening around ten,
feeling rather tired. As I lay there floods of thoughts jammed through a reluctant
mind endeavoring to find sleep. The reflections were as exciting as they were
many. Finally I had to get up and start this letter. It is now 10:58 p.m.
How to start? Closing my eyes a rush of good friends came to mind ... Paul, you,
Hoppy, Raph, Frank McNiff, Jack Duggan, Jerry Mc Cann, Joe McKiernan,
Henry Lucien, Gil Levesque, Frank Casey, Ray Landry, Ken Mannix ... and the
list goes on. I thought of and often think of Miles Anderberg and his many
references to "Doctor Jesus," and to many, many monks I worked and taught
with, prayed with, lived with, laughed and cried with ... a community in Christ,
"living stones." That we were literally "raised up" in the Gospel. For me, Christ
came alive in that community, as He did for all of us
When I ventured out from the community, I learned rather dramatically that the
Spirit of the Lord was ever faithful, and for twenty-one years He has remained
so. Through my marriage to Annie and our adoption of Joe, through our work as
teachers in and out of the Church, through our move from NY to MA, and
through the community that formed here and prays here, the blessings have been
overwhelming. Sure we struggle and have gone through some very "hairy"
times, even those we would not wish on our enemies (as the saying goes), but
"we bear all things, for the sufferings of this life are not to be compared to the
glory that is to come." If it weren't for the shared faith and prayer, it would
virtually be impossible for all of us.
As I lay there, I wondered if we could gather not for a few hours once a year, but
for a couple of days, to give thanks for all the gifts of suffering and good fortune
that have enabled us to be one in heart and mind. To share with one another in
Christ and allow His miracle birth to take place once again in our midst, to bless
and give us continued courage in this life to "fight the good fight" when
everything at times seems to scream against such fidelity. Can we gather, single
and married, monk and brothers and sisters in Christ! Difficult, then let us give it
to the Lord in prayer and plan for it. Someone once called it "expectant faith."
(Winchester Road, Northfield, Ma. 01360; 413-.498-2129)
MARIST GENERAL CONFERENCE: ( Brazil): From Brother Sean's letter to
his province: "I hope to pass along some of the spirit and challenge of these
days. What has struck me? The clear emphasis on the need to look at what the
Constitutions mean by a preferential option for those most in need. Stated simply
if Marcellin Champagnat walked around many of our Provinces today, he would
not criticize the excellent work that so many of us are doing; he might, .however,
ask if there are ways in which we could be more effective evangelizers in our
schools and other ministries, and in some cases would challenge us to consider
the possibility that we were needed more elsewhere.
"This challenge is not a call to leave schools or the work of Christian education
nor does it belittle the significant and dedicated ministry that so many have done
and continue to do. Instead, it calls us to reexamine who we are and what we are
doing in light of a preferential option for those most in need.
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"I am amazed at how alive Champagnat is here. I am getting a new appreciation
for the fact that Champagnat really did trust unconditionally in God and believed
that it was up to Mary to see to the Institute's welfare and mission."
FROM BOB (Robert Thomas) TOOLE ('54): Am always looking forward to
receiving Marists All and reading about Marist classmates ('58), college buddies
('55-'58), Tyngsboro ('53-'55), monks who taught me at St. Agnes ('50-'53), and
those with whom I taught at C.C.H.S. in Lawrence ('58-'59).
While at Nilus' annual summer work camp in 1959 working on the new
classroom foundation, I left Marist. Within months I was able to get into an
Army Reserve unit in Brooklyn so that I might get my military commitment
behind me. Believe me, our Marist training and discipline made it easy to cope
with the six months training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, and at Fort Jackson, South
Carolina.
In 1960 I joined the J. C. Penney Company, working primarily in the New York
headquarters as a buyer, but also in Los Angeles ('63-'64). In 1988 the N. Y.
headquarters relocated to Dallas, and I chose not to move.I am now a Product
Director in the Baby Products Division of Dundee Hills, Inc. We are a supplier
to Penney as well, as to other major retailers in the United States.
In 1961 I met my future bride, also from Brooklyn.At the time she was attending
the College of Notre Dame in Baltimore.After her graduation in 1963 we
married. Jack Noone, a Marist classmate, was my best man. Marcia and I have
three children. Ken (22) is now completing his last year of Electrical
Engineering at SUNY, Story Brook. Ed (20) is a sophomore at Fairfield
University in Connecticut, and Jeanne-Marie (13) is a seventh grader in our local
parochial school.
In 1988 I visited Marist College for a few hours hoping to see others at the 30th
reunion. I was elated to see Br. Joe Maura, and also George Mannix and Bill
Maher with their spouses. It was also interesting to read the greetings sent to the
reunion by Father Gene Ostrowski and by Bob Parker. Last spring I had occasion
to see Br. Jim Adams at St. Agnes residence and enjoy dinner with the monks.
At the time Jim was back from the Philippines and doing new ministry work at a
nearby east side hospital.
To Dave and Gus, keep the newsletter coming. To my brothers who read this, my
thoughts and prayers for a blessed Easter. (2778 Wilson Avenue, Bellmore, N. Y.
11710; 516-826-4022)
FROM ED WILLIAMS ('62): We moved last March, and I just realized that I
have not sent you the new address: 3031 Flores Street, San Mateo, Ca. 94403;
415-345-8207. All is well. We survived the earthquake with no damage. I will
write more soon. The last newsletter I received was last summer. Could you
please send me copies of any issues I have missed.
EDITOR'S NOTE: We have been publishing this newsletter quarterly for the last
three years. Lately as we get well into each period, we have been concerned
about having enough fresh material. Yet so far we have survived. From the many
favorable reactions to Marists All, you have to conclude that your friends are
clamoring to hear from you! So please write ... soon. Write to David Kammer,
107 Woodland Drive, Harwinton, Ct. 06791, or to Gus Nolan, % Marist College,
Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601.
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ISSUE # 13
May 1990
ON THE ROAD ... THROUGH CENTRAL AMERICA with Br. Sean Sammon,
Provincial, Pksie
The conference in Brazil addressing the Mission of the Marist Brother in the
Future has been excellent. Coming right after ten very moving days in
Guatemala and Nicaragua, it has left me with a great deal to think about.
Seven of us gathered in Guatemala City to visit the Province of Central America:
Renato Cruz (Philippines), John Lek (China), Julian Casey (Melbourne), Julio
Suaesi (Samoa), Jose Maria Ferre (editor of FMS), Phil Robert and me. Br. Juan
Arconada, who cooked at Esopus and taught at Molloy in the '60's was our very
able guide and translator.
In Guatemala, the Church has taken a preferential option for the poor. Its stand
has caused problems with the government and military: thirteen priests have
been killed, one woman religious, and three hundred catechists. The Brothers
own and operate two schools in Guatemala City. One is an impressive looking
place that served students from financially well off families. Good profits from
that school are used to support the other school which served poorer children in
the city. Once again, an old custom of our Institute is being put to good use.
In all, there are six Marist communities in Guatemala City. We visited one that
reminded me of Pine Ridge. Four Brothers there minister to the indigenous
people of the area. Their lifestyle is simple. They are learning the language and
assessing the pastoral needs of the area. Most of their current efforts focus on
training catechists who have a tremendous impact on the people. Those who
hold power are afraid of these simple teachers; they teach people about a gospel
that demands justice for all.
In Nicaragua there are two Marist communities, one at Esteli and one at
Condega.
Br. Mariano Blanco, age 42, shot to death by Samoza forces just before the
Sandanista victory is buried in the garden of the Brothers' house in Esteli. Both
communities operate schools that serve the poor.
The Brothers in Esteli help with a local health clinic and serve as pastors of the
local parish which is next to the school. A priest is rarely available, so the
Brothers baptize, marry, and bury the dead. They are also involved with basic
communities that have sprung up in the campesino villages. We spent a rainy
afternoon and evening with three of the Brothers travelling by jeep over the most
incredibly rocky roads I've ever seen or felt to a campesino village to celebrate
the Word and Eucharist. Once again, a Brother presided. An excellent teacher,
his homily was delightful; I was amazed at his ability to involve the entire
community in what was really a catechetical lesson. In Condega, besides their
school involvement the Brothers run a food pantry, and one serves on the local
Peace Committee set up recently by the revolutionary government. Just a few
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months ago it was dangerous to take the road from Esteli to Condega after dark.
The Contra forces often passed over it while movihg from one mountain area to
another.
The Brothers in Central America were incredibly gracious. The memory of their
generosity, midst poverty, will always stay with me. (Adapted from part of Br.
Sean's circular letter to Pksie Province)
FROM MARTY CULLINAN ('53): Aka Stephen Patrick; aka ......??? aka ....???
W'e'll leave those alone; either you remember or you don't! I really enjoy reading
Marists All. Thanks to Gus and Dave. It only took twelve issues for me to write;
I'm improving.
'Where does the time go? Twenty-seven years in the wink of an eye. I started
teaching in the Levittown schools in 1962. I became involved in the teachers'
union and was elected its president in 1968 ... and spent the next eighteen years
as president. I enjoyed every minute.Unfortunately we had a terrible strike in
1978, and I spent twenty-one days in Nassau County jail. One of my old bosses
from Bayonne was surprised it took so long to get me there. Jail wasn't too bad;
in fact, a former student of mine from St. Helena's was my cellmate. I left
teaching in 1988, and in July of the same year became a Commissioner of Labor
in Nassau County government, The job involves mediation, fact finding, and
arbitration. Right up my alley.
My wife Pat and I celebrated our 25th anniversary in October.Our son, Sean, is a
fine student and an excellent ice hockey player. He is a senior in high school and
is looking forward to college. In fact, Marist is high on his list, Our health is
fine, thank God. I've trimmed down to a lean, mean machine! If you believe that,
give me a call; I have a bridge for sale.
I see Dick Masterson very often.Our families are close. In fact, Pat and I are God
parents to one of his children. I think it is only one? Hard to keep track, he has so
many. Danny Grogan pops up every couple of years, stays a day or two, and is
off again. Last I heard he was in Oregon, He must have worked his way to the
Arctic Circle by now. Dick and I have promised to make the picnic next
September. Maybe we can organize a contingent from Long Island! (96 Bay
Drive, Massapequa, N. Y. 11758; 516-799-4593)
JUBILARIANS: 1990
70th: Br. Ernest Mary Drolet, 26 Leeds Terrace, Lawrence, Ma. 01843
70th: Br. Stephen Weber, Marist International School, Kobe, 654, Japan
65th: Br. Robert Koehly, 17475 South Dixie Highway, Miami, Fl. 33157
60th: Br. Norbert Cote, 3000 S.W. 87th Avenue, Miami, F1, 33165
60th: Br. Richard Michel, 1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, Ga. 30904
60th: Br. Paul Ambrose Fontaine, Marist College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601
60th: Br. William Gleason, Roselle Catholic, One Raritan Rd., Roselle, N. J.
07203
55th: Br. Gilbert Barry, 2790 S.W. 89th Avenue, Miami, Fl. 33165
55th: Br. Clement Gerard, 1241 Kennedy Boulevard, Bayonne, N. J. 07002
55th: Br. Juan Salvador, 83-53 Manton Street, Jamaica, N. Y. 11435
55th: Br. Herbert Daniel, 9506 Koronadal, South Cotabato, Philippines
50th: Br. Thomas Edward, 2790 S.W. 89th Avenue, Miami, Fl. 33165
50th: Br. James Brady, 1920 Highland Avenue, Augusta, Ga. 30904
50th: Br. Victor Serna, 51 Clapham Avenue, Manhassett, N. Y, 11030
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50th: Br. Paul Urban Phillip, 101 St. Joseph Drive, Brownsville, Tx. 78520
50th: Br. Norbert Rodrique, 1900 Kingsley Road, Eugene, Or. 97401
FROM RICHARD COUT0 ('60): Thanks for the coaxing and cajoling to
write.Thank you also for the Marists all newsletter. I just finished reading
February's issue. It reminded me of the talented group of men with whom I
shared so many years. Jerry Worrell's writing still knocks me out.
Let me pick up my trail in 1969 when I left Central Catholic in Lawrence. I went
to the University of Kentucky, married in 1972, and taught at a college outside of
Cincinnati from 1972 to 1975. In 1975 I began directing a program at Vanderbilt
University that sent students into low income communities in the Appalachian
region and parts of the middle South to assist leaders there in the development of
services. I got my start in this at Mount Saint Michael when I assisted some
students organize a summer project to Eastern Kentucky in 1966. I left
Vanderbilt in 1988 to take a position at Tennessee State University. I teach policy
courses in health and human services in a graduate program of public
administration.
When I left Vanderbilt, I set out to explain to myself two problems of American
life: race and industrial labor. I just completed one book on race, Sick for Justice,
and expect to finish another this summer, Lifting the Veil. With those projects
completed I'll return to writing on coal mining and the Appalachian region. I
hope eventually to complete work I started on coal mining regions in
Appalachia, Wales, and South Africa. I became chairman of the Nashville
Coalition for the Homeless in 1988 and continue to serve in that role despite a
promise to myself that I would serve for only one year. I enjoy that work as well
as the work I do with the Commission on Religion in Appalachia. There is a
small, vibrant community of Catholics in the Appalachian region and in the
South, and I am pleased to work with their liberation of theology when I can.
My wife, Took, directs the Crisis Intervention Center. We have two boys, grown
and on their own more or less. Our daughter is a freshman at Father Ryan High
School where Vinny Kenny ('60) teaches. I visit Lawrence where my mother
resides. She had a stroke about ten years ago and has been paralyzed since.
Occasionally I see some monks at the Mary Immaculate Nursing Home when I
visit her. Ron Diss and I have managed to stay in touch. Thanks to you, I have
regained other dear and meaningful friends.
I am deeply indebted to the Marist Brothers. Certainly my life is different
because of the influence of the monks who taught me in high school and college.
Michael Kieran, William Murphy, and Ed Cashin, just to name a few, opened up
a world of ideas and possibilities and encouraged me to travel into it. I don't
think I have ever known a group of people as talented and interesting as the
monks I studied with at Marist College.
I have never regretted leaving the monks. In the plainest sense my departure
began a pursuit of the ideas on life and service I acquired there and with a style
that I learned from a set of remarkable men. (4627 Mountainview Drive,
Nashville, TN. 37215; 615-371-9482) .
SILVER JUBIILARIANS: 1990
Br. James Devine, 12212 Irving Avenue, Blue Island, IL. 60406
Br. Lawrence Gordon, 4200 West 115th Street, Chicago, IL. 60655
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Br. Richard Grenier, 4200 West 115th Street, Chicago, IL. 60655
Br. William Maske, 1241 Kennedy Blvd., Bayonne, N. J. 07002
Br. Joseph Matthews, 237 Jersey Street, Harrison, N. J. 07029
FROM BRIAN LONERGAN ('47): The recent death of "The Wall" my former
boss at the Mount and that of Kieran Thomas, my English teacher and dorm
prefect, added bold print to the necrology of the past two years. I went over the
list of old friends: Mark O'Rourke, Terry Jones, Joe Abel, Louis Frederick, Roch
Anthony, Linus William, Brendan Ginnity, Mike Shurkus, Clem Martin, and Bill
Kane among others. I felt a sudden loss of my Marist past which I had taken for
granted. But the calendar flips by faster and faster and ever more noticeably.
Soon those who were dying before you are in a way dying with you. This year I
lost four friends at work around my own age; and of course, more painfully, my
own son, Brian, who was only twenty-six. But all will rise again in glory, so the
sadness lifts slowly like the fleeting mists at dawn. What was it that the wise
man said in the Novitiate notes: "Life is short; eternity will never end."
Brother Turley of the Chicago development office reminds us that old age
enfolds quietly among the Marist "greybeards" as Linus William used to call
them. Recently I sent a small sum to the fund, Why had I not done so sooner to
say "Thank you" to all those who guided me along the Marist Way. Br. Turley's
friendly note reminds me that time not only heals all ills, it develops character
and presents it in the fullness of time.
I met Br. Smollen and Br. John Alexius at my custom's post at J.F.K. Great to see
old friends at the crossroads. Br. David Cooney came through when his dad
passed away, and I was privileged to help him quickly through Customs in the
wee hours of the morning. Lots of nefarious nuances here at Kennedy. Neither
the cloak of night nor the glare of day dissuades the movement of contraband.
The Avianca and Mexican flights disembark the greatest number of perpetrators,
while cargo from the Near East, Far East, Carib Islands, South America, and
Africa via freighters contain the most suspicious drug shipments.
Recently I coordinated our second annual Mass for deceased customs personnel
at J.F.K.I am deeply interested in continuing this tradition. As the Irish say, "I
didn't get this off the wall." My interest in the souls in purgatory dates back to
the Juniorate days in Esopus when Br. Joseph Cadroes and especially John
Patrick first encouraged devotion to the Holy Souls. Later at Marist it was Paul
Ambrose who often dipped into the Holy Well of favors through prayers for the
departed. Regards to all Marists.
Glad to read that note from "Doc" Blanchard who was a fullback in his own
right. I would like to hear about any gatherings in 1990 for Champagnat year, so
that I could see old friends once more. (3 Van Roo Ave., Merrick, N. Y. 11566)
CUBAN CONNECTION ... with VILLA MARISTA: In the March issue of
Reader's Digest an article by a John Barron says that when longtime Cuban
intelligence officer Juan Antonio Rodriguez defected to the United States, he
brought startling knowledge of Castro's secrets. The former double agent had
lived at Castro's new intelligence headquarters, the Villa Marista, "a baroque
marble and stone chateau that once served as Cuba's finest elementary and high
school. Rodriguez was no stranger to Villa Marista. He had spent the happiest
years of his life there under the tutelage of kindly Brothers. Surrounded by a tall
concrete wall, Villa Marista became a self-contained world of offices,
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interrogation rooms, cells, sleeping quarters, and dining facilities; it even had a
baseball field."
FROM GUS NOLAN ('48): My contribution to Marists All is going to deal less
with nostalgia and more with current happenings. I have enjoyed all the varied
accounts of Marist history as it has been recalled in these pages, but I would like
to talk more about this year's events. (I think my past is common knowledge. I
am currently teaching at Marist, Jep Lanning is my Chairman, Elizabeth is my
wife, we have no children that I know of, and my wiser, if not older brother,
Frank (Bernie), is Director of the Marist Retirement Home in Miami.
Marist College awarded me a sabbatical for the current academic year. I chose to
take the whole year in order to get a more comprehensive view of my field of
inquiry, Organizational Communication. From September through December I
worked at IBM, Kingston, in two different departments, communications and
education. In the Communications Department I studied IBM's internal network
and mastered the intricacies of communicating with 200,000 other IBMers. (One
might say, the telephone does that. True, but the telephone can't tell you that the
other received the message, nor will it store it for you, or give you a hard copy,
or allow for instant communication with two others or with a thousand others at
the same moment. Well, maybe the telephone will do some of the above, but the
computer is better ... IBM says so!)
IBM's Education Department is strictly dedicated to IBM teaching its own
employees a whole array of courses, mostly technical. My interest was to learn
how they instruct their own folks to be teachers. To that end I attended an
Instructor Development Seminar. A second activity arose when the IBM
teaching staff encouraged me to participate in brainstorming a program in
Technical Vitality. Simply stated: what can be done to make employees more
effective in the work place? The answer, as you already know, is complex. I am
not sure it will be answered this year ... or this decade. Stay tuned; watch for
IBM: TV Guide.
One of the most interesting projects was investigating what other IBM sites are
doing to help youngsters in K through 12 educational programs. This gave me a
chance to have instant contact through my computer with people all across the
country. Found the response to be amazing: more than 20,000 are now involved
in tutoring, specialized days for young inventors, all sorts of contests, and a
program on computers "Teaching Teachers."
I walked away from IBM impressed with their size, their contributions, and the
great people I met. Would I want to stay with IBM; rather not, I'll take Marist.
(50 South Randolph St., Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601; 454-6116)
FROM JIM GORMALLY ('65): The outpouring of interest in the newsletter is
truly phenomenal. I think it speaks to a need all of us have to renew connections
that mean so much. My experience at the GMC picnic in New York a few years
ago was quite positive as well. It validated an important but submerged part of
me. My clinical work has taken a spiritual direction. I find myself guiding my
patients in how serenity prayer can be a way to live their lives. So much depends
on our attitudes; if we put our problems in their proper perspective, they don't
seem to have the power to dominate us.
We have received some response to the newsletter announcement on our 1965-
66 reunion. If we actually pull it off, we may do a video so that those who cannot
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come may also have a memento. The reunion will be at the Mount Washington
Inn and Resort, a very posh place and certainly a beautiful setting. Thanks again
for your help on this. Peace and light. (806 East Franklin Avenue, Silver Springs,
Md. 20901; 301-587-6265)
FROM MARTIN LYDEN ('61): I have been reading every issue of Marists All
with great interest. A variety of feelings and memories have been stimulated by
each issue. I had been reluctant to submit anything, but a comment by my lawyer
during a recent meeting at which my wife Linda and I were revising our wills,
gave me the needed push. The lawyer suggested that causes and groups
important to us be designated as beneficiaries. When I asked myself what non
transient groups I had personal experience with, whose activities were
meaningful and valuable, the Marist Brothers were near the top of the list. I
know that the Marist Brothers have enriched the lives of many, including mine.
After teaching for three years at Union Catholic High School in New Jersey, I
left the order in 1967. I continued teaching high school math and science for five
more years, two at St. Raymond's in the Bronx, one at a public school on Long
Island, and the final two at the American International School in New Delhi,
India; in December of 1971 I travelled to Sri Lanka and was able to visit
Remigius and Cyril, who had been student Brother classmates of mine at Marist
College. In August of 1972 I began graduate studies at the State University of
New York at Albany. Two years later I became a school psychologist, and in
1978 I acquired a PhD. Now I have a private practice of psychology and a part
time consultancy with an agency that serves the developmentally disabled.
I am very happily married to the former Linda Cryan, no children yet. Since the
mid-70s I have become increasingly involved with Irish heritage. Linda and I
helped establish an Albany area Irish Musicians' Association and a Currach
(Irish fishing boat) Club. We love the Albany area and the nearby Adirondak
mountains where we have a summer camp. (1807 Ninth Street, Rensselaer, N. Y.
12144.; 518-449-7965)
NEWS NOTES: Br. Leo Joseph ('13), after over 75 years of active ministry, was
forced to go into retirement recently. He moved from the Mount to Leeds
Terrace this year. In all there are nine Brothers in that retirement home in
Lawrence. At present Br. John McDonagh ('59) is the Director looking after the
well-being of the retirees. The Provincial with his Council has decided on a four-
bedroom addition for Leeds.
Adrian Perreault sends us word that Paul Lozeau (Dominic Mary '52) is now
headmaster of Notre Dame Prep High School in Fitchburg, Mass. Paul lives at
(182 Woodland Street, Fitchburg, Ma. 01420; 508-342-1019).
Kenny Anderson, the young man who received so much attention as a freshman
starter in basketball for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, is a graduate of Molloy
High School, where he led the Stanners to a Catholic school title. This season
Kenny wore the inscription "Br. T" on his game shoes, a memorial to Br. Terence
Jones, his math teacher and mentor at Molloy. This bit was in a January issue of
Sports Illustrated, and was called to our attention by Paul Maloney.
Michael 0' Neil ('61) was on ESPN Scholastic Sports with a team of high school
athletes he took to the Soviet Union two years ago as part of President Reagan's
initiatives. He is also involved with an organization called Sports for
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Understanding. It is dedicated to cross cultural exchange through the medium of
sport and initiates young athletes into world citizenship.
FROM MICHAEL O'NEIL ('61): It's been 25 years since I wore the robe and the
bib. I had five years of laughs, tears, brotherhood, cold nights walking from the
mansion, forced marches, as well as many enjoyable softball and basketball
games. Yes, I was consistently late for morning prayer, just in front of Joe Cron
and Tom Byrnes; Br. Hilary's reverse psychology did not work when he put me
in charge of the bell. And I may have more extra sleep during meditation and
religious study than most, except for Billy Carroll. Chapter of faults was quite a
trip; Marty Lyons' gems have enlivened a few dull parties.
Where to begin. The best and the hook is that some people call me "The Doctor."
Yeah, that's right, this jock went and did it. I received my PhD in Counseling and
Behavioral Sciences in 1973. That has got to run some folks over. It was Br. Paul
who jacked me up in his office asking me if I was ever going to get on track ...
"Always the first to pick up that basketball and the last to put it down. What are
you doing here," he would say. I never really figured that out while I was there.
But since ... well Mary didn't born no fool; HE knew what HE was doing with
me. I was finding myself, building my self-esteem, preparing myself for HIS
work. After HIS basic training, HE connected me with Mary Ann Esposito from
Hackensack, New Jersey, a giver, a winner, a talent who lights up the space and
the people with whom she comes in contact, my best friend. Then HE blessed us
with Sean, Scott, Michael, Matt, and o yes, our little girl, Shannon. All healthy,
exciting scholar-athletes. They are also social beyond repair. Giving, loving
siblings following and living out the most important value that Mary Ann and I
live: "Thou shalt not hurt!" The sense of love, sharing and support can be seen
among their circle of friends and lovers. However, good drivers they are not.
Four driving teens equals ten accidents in 18 months. Not a scratch on anyone.
Thank you, Brother Leonard, I know that must be a result of your connection
above. I know He must also have plans for them. Sean, a junior at Holy Cross
with an internship in Harlem this semester. Scott a sophomore at Villanova ran
hoops for the homeless, and Michael Jr. at Notre Dame looking for a place to
give, all honor students with the study habits and discipline of their mom, thank
God. Matt, my flower child with so much to give, at 16 touching so many so
soon and Shannon sensitive, insightful and the best sister brothers can have, are
both adjusting to their new school, each on the honor roll and playing three
sports.
Michael Sr. what has he been up to? After teaching, deaning, and coaching in
Colleges (UConn, Holy Cross, U. of Akron, and Mt. St. Mary, '65-'75) I started a
Quality Training Consulting Company. Mary Ann and I, along with 15
associates, help organizations achieve quality, build effective management work
teams and develop leadership skills. We work with companies like Xerox,
Kodak, Texaco, and most recently the Philadelphia Flyers. I touch perhaps 3000
people.a year, and they touch many more. My arrow theory regarding the pain
we cause others and how to reduce it, gets shared in each session. My job is to
empower people at every level of the organization and to create a positive
quality of work life. The reason I exist, however, is to reduce the pain in the
world, and this vehicle has given me a way to make that happen.
We have just moved into a lovely home in a lovely town, Simsbury, Connecticut.
Close to ski slopes in Vermont, my new passion, and close to an airport, an old
habit. I have contact with Dennis DaRos ('66) of 12 Arrowhead Drive,
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Brunswick, Maine, 04011. Bill. Reger ('65) just sent a note; will reply soon Bill.
(20 Lucy Way, Simsbury, Ct. 06070; 203-651-0058)
FROM BILL KARGES ('68): The editor's note in the 12th issue has finally
prompted me to write after receiving all twelve issues. I've read many things
over the past three years about Marists, past, present, and future, and I've
enjoyed the news very much. Roy Mooney has stayed in touch with me and has
managed to fill in a good many blanks about people, places, and events.
Marist life impressed me a great deal in my early days in Wheeling, and as I
spent time at St. Agnes and Mt. St. Michael I genuinely grew to love working
with kids. They are so honest and open, compared with so many others we have
to deal with. Many of those "kids" have become good friends and stayed close
over the years.
After finishing a tour as Academic Dean at St. Agnes with a shattered leg, I
spent a year recuperating at Lourdes in the Guidance Department and teaching
Religion. At that point I was at a crossroads, and I decided to finish up a
doctorate in Ed Psych, try a little college teaching, and take a leave of absence. I
even attempted dealing with the business community as a consultant in human
resources.
To support a "vast debt," as George Leo might say, I decided to return to
education and my love of working with kids. As I signed out of the order, there
were many mixed feelings, but the experiences the order provided me with were
significant; though I was overconcerned with the future, I found seven job
possibilities in a short space of time, thanks to that varied experience. Having the
luxury of choice between administration and guidance, I chose to work as
Guidance Director at a Manhattan school where I was given the freedom to set
up a department from scratch, one that many predicted would fail due to the high
level of competitiveness and a lack of trust. My time with the Marists taught me
that these things could be overcome. Three years later, it's a growing, successful
and popular venture!
My experience with Marist life from 1968 through 1987, even during the very
hard times, is valued and continues to be a major part of my apostolate. Some
here even refer to me as "Brother Bill," though privately:. I'm very grateful for
the sharing of so many good people over the years, and for the opportunities
offered. My view of life and of man has been significantly influenced.(Collegiate
School, 370 West End Avenue, New York City, 10024)
DECEASED: Brother Regis James Creighton died in Miami on January 21,
1990.
Br. James had lived the Marist life for 62 years, as a teacher, as Master of
Juniors, and as an administrator. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Mount
St. Michael on the 24th of January.
Br. Angus Wilkinson ('48) died in his sleep Monday, April 2nd; he was 58 years
of age. The last few years Angus taught at Christopher Columbus in Miami. In
the seventies he had been Principal at Molloy High in Jamaica, Long Island.
On the same day, April 2nd, Br. Stephen Urban's brother died. Father Tom
Minogue was friendly with many Marists.
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David Cote, who was a novice in Tyngsboro in the early sixties, died of a heart
attack at his home in Mount Vernon on December 25th, 1989. David was 47. He
had graduated from Mt. St. Michael, and later served in intelligence for the army
during the Vietnam War.
FROM DOMINIC CAVALLERO (‘51): I went to bed this evening around ten,
feeling rather tired. As I lay there floods of thoughts jammed through a reluctant
mind endeavoring to find sleep. The reflections were as exciting as they were
many. Finally I had to get up and start this letter. It is now 10:58 p.m.
How to start? Closing my eyes a rush of good friends came to mind ... Paul, you,
Hoppy, Raph, Frank McNiff, Jack Duggan, Jerry Mc Cann, Joe McKiernan,
Henry Lucien, Gil Levesque, Frank Casey, Ray Landry, Ken Mannix ... and the
list goes on. I thought of and often think of Miles Anderberg and his many
references to "Doctor Jesus," and to many, many monks I worked and taught
with, prayed with, lived with, laughed and cried with ... a community in Christ,
"living stones." That we were literally "raised up" in the Gospel. For me, Christ
came alive in that community, as He did for all of us
When I ventured out from the community, I learned rather dramatically that the
Spirit of the Lord was ever faithful, and for twenty-one years He has remained
so. Through my marriage to Annie and our adoption of Joe, through our work as
teachers in and out of the Church, through our move from NY to MA, and
through the community that formed here and prays here, the blessings have been
overwhelming. Sure we struggle and have gone through some very "hairy"
times, even those we would not wish on our enemies (as the saying goes), but
"we bear all things, for the sufferings of this life are not to be compared to the
glory that is to come." If it weren't for the shared faith and prayer, it would
virtually be impossible for all of us.
As I lay there, I wondered if we could gather not for a few hours once a year, but
for a couple of days, to give thanks for all the gifts of suffering and good fortune
that have enabled us to be one in heart and mind. To share with one another in
Christ and allow His miracle birth to take place once again in our midst, to bless
and give us continued courage in this life to "fight the good fight" when
everything at times seems to scream against such fidelity. Can we gather, single
and married, monk and brothers and sisters in Christ! Difficult, then let us give it
to the Lord in prayer and plan for it. Someone once called it "expectant faith."
(Winchester Road, Northfield, Ma. 01360; 413-.498-2129)
MARIST GENERAL CONFERENCE: ( Brazil): From Brother Sean's letter to
his province: "I hope to pass along some of the spirit and challenge of these
days. What has struck me? The clear emphasis on the need to look at what the
Constitutions mean by a preferential option for those most in need. Stated simply
if Marcellin Champagnat walked around many of our Provinces today, he would
not criticize the excellent work that so many of us are doing; he might, .however,
ask if there are ways in which we could be more effective evangelizers in our
schools and other ministries, and in some cases would challenge us to consider
the possibility that we were needed more elsewhere.
"This challenge is not a call to leave schools or the work of Christian education
nor does it belittle the significant and dedicated ministry that so many have done
and continue to do. Instead, it calls us to reexamine who we are and what we are
doing in light of a preferential option for those most in need.
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"I am amazed at how alive Champagnat is here. I am getting a new appreciation
for the fact that Champagnat really did trust unconditionally in God and believed
that it was up to Mary to see to the Institute's welfare and mission."
FROM BOB (Robert Thomas) TOOLE ('54): Am always looking forward to
receiving Marists All and reading about Marist classmates ('58), college buddies
('55-'58), Tyngsboro ('53-'55), monks who taught me at St. Agnes ('50-'53), and
those with whom I taught at C.C.H.S. in Lawrence ('58-'59).
While at Nilus' annual summer work camp in 1959 working on the new
classroom foundation, I left Marist. Within months I was able to get into an
Army Reserve unit in Brooklyn so that I might get my military commitment
behind me. Believe me, our Marist training and discipline made it easy to cope
with the six months training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, and at Fort Jackson, South
Carolina.
In 1960 I joined the J. C. Penney Company, working primarily in the New York
headquarters as a buyer, but also in Los Angeles ('63-'64). In 1988 the N. Y.
headquarters relocated to Dallas, and I chose not to move.I am now a Product
Director in the Baby Products Division of Dundee Hills, Inc. We are a supplier
to Penney as well, as to other major retailers in the United States.
In 1961 I met my future bride, also from Brooklyn.At the time she was attending
the College of Notre Dame in Baltimore.After her graduation in 1963 we
married. Jack Noone, a Marist classmate, was my best man. Marcia and I have
three children. Ken (22) is now completing his last year of Electrical
Engineering at SUNY, Story Brook. Ed (20) is a sophomore at Fairfield
University in Connecticut, and Jeanne-Marie (13) is a seventh grader in our local
parochial school.
In 1988 I visited Marist College for a few hours hoping to see others at the 30th
reunion. I was elated to see Br. Joe Maura, and also George Mannix and Bill
Maher with their spouses. It was also interesting to read the greetings sent to the
reunion by Father Gene Ostrowski and by Bob Parker. Last spring I had occasion
to see Br. Jim Adams at St. Agnes residence and enjoy dinner with the monks.
At the time Jim was back from the Philippines and doing new ministry work at a
nearby east side hospital.
To Dave and Gus, keep the newsletter coming. To my brothers who read this, my
thoughts and prayers for a blessed Easter. (2778 Wilson Avenue, Bellmore, N. Y.
11710; 516-826-4022)
FROM ED WILLIAMS ('62): We moved last March, and I just realized that I
have not sent you the new address: 3031 Flores Street, San Mateo, Ca. 94403;
415-345-8207. All is well. We survived the earthquake with no damage. I will
write more soon. The last newsletter I received was last summer. Could you
please send me copies of any issues I have missed.
EDITOR'S NOTE: We have been publishing this newsletter quarterly for the last
three years. Lately as we get well into each period, we have been concerned
about having enough fresh material. Yet so far we have survived. From the many
favorable reactions to Marists All, you have to conclude that your friends are
clamoring to hear from you! So please write ... soon. Write to David Kammer,
107 Woodland Drive, Harwinton, Ct. 06791, or to Gus Nolan, % Marist College,
Poughkeepsie, N. Y. 12601.
6/22/2021
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