leaven fall 2006

Inside This Issue• Apostolic Nuncio Honored• New Rector Appointed• Presidential Inauguration• Seminary Launches New Website• History Book Published• Father Kram Honored

Saint Vincent Archabbey Publications 2006

Saint Vincent Seminaryfrom its Origins to the Present

Daniel J. Heisey

with a Foreword by Jerome Oetgen

Leaven Fall 2006, Volume 15, Number 1

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Rector’s Message

PublisherArchabbot Douglas R.

Nowicki, O.S.B.

RectorVery Rev. Justin M.

Matro, O.S.B.

Vice Rector, Dean of Human Formation

Director of Pastoral FormationRev. David T. Brzoska

Academic DeanRev. Cyprian G.

Constantine, O.S.B.

Director of Spiritual FormationRev. Charles A.

Byrd, Jr.

Director of Seminary Development

Paul R. Whiteside

Director of Seminary Public Relations

Kimberley A. Metzgar

Public Relations AssociateElizabeth Cousins

Alumni DirectorRev. Gilbert J. Burke, O.S.B.

Contributors to this issue:Theresa Schwab

Vanessa Shepherd

On the cover:Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Pietro Sambi is honored; Father Justin M. Matro, O.S.B., new Rector; Saint Vincent President H. James Towey inaugurated; new his-tory book and new website.

300 Fraser Purchase RoadLatrobe, Pennsylvania

15650Phone: 724-537-4592

Fax: 724-532-5052http://www.saintvincentseminary.

eduFather Justin M. Matro, O.S.B.

Dear Friends,As the newly appointed

Rector of Saint Vincent Seminary, the most common question I am asked is: “How is it going so far?” More importantly, that query is almost always followed up by a statement: “I’ve been keeping you in prayer.” Both the question and the assurance of prayer reveal that the person with whom I am speaking is concerned, not only for my own well-being, but also for the well-being of our Seminary.

As far as my own well-being is concerned; I am still in the “honeymoon” stage of being Rector, so things are going great! However, I have to say that the current state of affairs at Saint Vincent Seminary helps to prolong the “honeymoon” euphoria. I know that you would expect that the Rector would say, as a point of protocol, that we have an impressive group of men preparing for ordained ministry. The fact is, all protocol aside, we have a superb group of seminarians. They are bright, fun-loving, mature and prayerful. Most of our seminarians have grown up and/or came of age under the influence of the great John Paul II. His model of priestly holiness remains a driving force to their own desires for sanctity, the welfare of the Church and love for the people whom they feel called to serve. If I were asked to predict the future state of the priesthood based on the caliber of these seminarians, I would say that the picture is very bright.

Another reason for me to feel good about my new position and the Seminary itself is the outstanding support group I have. My two immediate predecessors, Frs. Tom Acklin and Kurt Belsole, are largely responsible for the direction of our formation program, and I have inherited from them an outstanding infrastructure and team. Father Tom worked to inculcate a desire for service and holiness in our program, and Father Kurt fine-tuned these efforts with a liturgical program which would allow our students to “think with the Church” and transmit their desire for holiness to their future parishioners. Both men collaborated with our faculty to develop our current formation ideals which implement the vision of Pope John Paul II’s encyclical Pastores Dabo Vobis and the new fifth edition of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops’ document Program of Priestly Formation. Among our senior faculty members, special mention must be given to Father Demetrius Dumm, a former Rector of our Seminary, who helped to formulate our current

Spiritual Life program, and who remains an outstanding pillar of support and source of advice.

Saint Vincent Seminary has also been blessed by the leadership and commitment of Archabbot Douglas Nowicki, Seminary Chancellor, and Mr. John C. Marous, Jr., our untiring Chairman of the Board of Regents. In his tenure as Archabbot of Saint Vincent, Archabbot Douglas has made

his role as Chancellor of Saint Vincent Seminary one of his

priorities. They have been instrumental in the construction of the Saint Gregory Chapel and the Elizabeth J. Roderick Hall, the renovation of the Brownfield Center, including online access and wireless computer capabilities in all classrooms, as well as various renovations to improve the quality of our students’ lives. As Chairman of the Board of Regents, Mr. Marous has worked tirelessly to establish and maintain an effective Development Office, and directed two Capital Campaigns which have provided for a variety of Seminary needs and added to our endowment, making our Seminary an effective institution of higher learning and priestly formation. This includes the recruitment of Dr. Scott Hahn as the Benedict XVI Chair in Biblical Studies and Liturgical Proclamation. Currently, Mr. Marous is working to establish a Chair in Hispanic Ministries. He has also made a notable contribution to preparing men for pastoral leadership by developing the Pastoral Stewardship Program. This program incorporates the talents of lay Catholic professional leaders to provide insight and learning opportunities for our seminarians regarding issues they will face in their pastoral ministry. In the realm of priestly formation, this program is unique to Saint Vincent Seminary.Each of these valuable resources is dedicated to responding to the call of Christ to His people. Each in a unique own way is answering this call here at Saint Vincent, and the Lord has continued to bless these efforts.

Finally, I want to express gratitude to the alumni, benefactors and friends of Saint Vincent Seminary for your love, support, and prayers. You are the mainstay of our Seminary. We are all deeply indebted to you. It is truly a joy and a blessing to travel this path with you!

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Very Reverend Justin Matro, O.S.B. Rector

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Father Justin M. Matro, O.S.B., has been named the Rector of Saint Vincent Seminary by Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Chancellor. The appointment became effective Monday, August 14.

“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Father Justin as the Rector of the Seminary,” said Archabbot Douglas. “His years of experience in Seminary formation provide a solid foundation for preparing priesthood students for future leadership and service in the Church.”

Father Justin has been a member of the Seminary faculty and staff for the past 13 years. For eight years, Father Justin served as Director of Spiritual Formation. Father Justin has served as Vice Rector of the Seminary and Dean of Human Formation since 2003. An Assistant Professor of Spiritual Theology, he has taught at the Seminary since 1993.

He attended St. Louise de Marillac School in Upper St. Clair, PA and then Highland Avenue School in Midland Park, New Jersey. He is a 1976 graduate of Midland Park High School. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from

Seton Hall University in 1981, a master of divinity degree from Saint Vincent Seminary in 1988, a master of arts degree in systematic theology from Saint Vincent Seminary in 1989, a master of arts degree in formative spirituality from Duquesne University in 1991, and a doctorate in sacred theology from the Gregorian Pontifical University in January of 2000.

He made simple profession of vows at

Justin Matro Appointed As Rector

Father Justin M. Matro, O.S.B.

Father Kurt Belsole, O.S.B.

(Continued on Page 4)

Father Kurt Belsole, O.S.B., who is taking a sabbatical leave upon successful completion of six years’ service as Rector of the Seminary, will teach at the international Benedictine College in Rome, Sant’ Anselmo, in the spring of 2007. He will continue to serve on the Seminary faculty as well.

According to John C. Marous, Jr., Chairman of the Seminary’s Board of

Regents, “Father Kurt has provided effective leadership and service to the Seminary community as Rector since May of 2000.”

“During the past six years Father Kurt has worked hard to advance the academic programs and the liturgical life of the Seminary,” Archabbot Douglas said. “During his years of service, the John and Annette Brownfield Center underwent a substantial renovation including the addition of wireless

internet access and state of the art information technology. In addition, the Pastoral Stewardship Program, the Pope Benedict XVI Chair in Biblical Theology and Liturgical Proclamation, and the Apostolic Visitation were all completed during his tenure.”

“We are all deeply grateful to Father Kurt for his contributions to the advancement of Saint Vincent Seminary. Both he and Father Justin are assured of our continued gratitude and prayers,” Archabbot Douglas said.

Thanks Given To Father Kurt


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The Saint Vincent Seminary website has undergone a major redesign. In addition to a new, updated style, some of the major features of the redesign are:

• A spoken message from the Rector on the home page, which will be updated periodically.

• A domain name change to http://www.stvincentseminary.edu.

• An easy-to-navigate menu system.• A scrolling news feature on the home

page, featuring recent news and events.• A revised “people” section, with a

changing faculty member spotlight and a page on Dr. Scott Hahn, as the inaugural Pope Benedict XVI Chair of Biblical Theology and Liturgical Proclamation.

• A new section on formation, including human, spiritual, academic, pastoral, priestly, Benedictine and lay formation.

• An easy to navigate news release menu, searchable by year.

• More pictures on all of the “information” pages.

• Current information from the new Seminary course catalogue, including links allowing the catalogue to be downloaded in whole or in part.

• The format for the individual courses of instruction has also been changed to allow for faster searching.

Also planned for the site, to be instituted before year’s end, are sections on the

Seminary’s Hispanic Ministries program and its Pastoral Stewardship program.

The Seminary’s website was launched in November of 1999, noted Seminary Director of Public Relations Kim Metzgar, and updated in 2002.

“As the Seminary has grown and the website expanded through the years, it has become important to keep the look of the website up-to-date with current, dynamic elements most websites are now using,” Metzgar said. “Working in conjunction with New Image Media of Cleveland, the planning and infrastructure work began in early 2006. In addition to the visual changes Internet users will see, we also redesigned the way the site is administered, to enhance the ease with which we are able to update

the site.”Much of the content of the old website was

transferred to the new website this summer, with public relations intern Josh Whiteside completing transfer of several hundred pages of content.

Future plans include offering online courses and lectures on the website.

Seminay Launches New, Updated Website

Saint Vincent Archabbey on July 10, 1984, and solemn profession of vows on July 11, 1987. He served his diaconate internship at Sacred Heart Parish, Jeannette (1988-1989), and was ordained a priest on May 27, 1989 by Bishop Anthony G. Bosco of Greensburg.

Father Justin is the son of Nicholas P. Matro of Crabtree and the late Marguerite (Monnich) Matro. He is one of six children, including Mary M. Abrey, Washingtonville, New York; N. P. Matro, Jr., Hawthorne, New Jersey; John Matro, Ramsey, New Jersey; Claire Matro, Monroeville; and William Matro, Latrobe.

He has also previously served as Director of the Retreat Program at Saint Vincent Archabbey (1988-1990); Vocation Director of the Archabbey (2000-2003); and Assistant in the Seminary Development Office (1987-1991) and in a number of other capacities.

(Continued from Page 3)

Rector

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Seminary Loses Very Special FriendBy Theresa Schwab

When long-time Board of Regents member Father Thomas J. Kram died on July 28, he was remembered as a very special friend to Saint Vincent Seminary. For many members of the Saint Vincent Community, Father Tom was remembered as a source of hope, strength and good humor demonstrated during his years as a seminarian, pastor, high school headmaster, Dean of Seminary Advancement, and as Vicar for Retired Priests of the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

At the Seminary, Father Tom is credited with important work in development that laid the groundwork for the successful fund-raising campaigns launched in the 1990s and for his efforts in establishing the yearly Seminary Scholarship dinner which has benefited many students since it was first held in 1991.

Serving as Dean of Advancement for the Seminary from 1990 to 1993, Father Kram’s work was remembered by Father Thomas P. Acklin, O.S.B., who gave the homily at Father Kram’s funeral. The two priests became close friends as they worked together when Father Acklin served as Rector.

“I knew that he was beloved by the priest alumni and that he had been a great help to Saint Vincent so I asked him if he would consider

doing development work,” Father Acklin said of his invitation to the older priest to join the Seminary staff. “With the gracious permission of Pittsburgh Bishop Donald W. Wuerl, Father Tom was allowed to come. He was excited at the idea of coming to Saint Vincent because he always loved Saint Vincent, and this gave him a chance to help.”

Over the next three years, Father Kram worked hard for the Seminary, offering the advantage of his close ties to many alumni, and his skills as a financial manager and administrator.

“I used to joke with him about where he got all that money because he always was helping a seminarian in need,” Father Acklin recalled.

Rev. Thomas J. Kram

Alumni Day Pays Tribute To Father Kram(Continued on Page 6)

Most Rev. William J. Winter, Auxiliary Bishop of Pittsburgh (pictured at right), was the homilist and principal celebrant at the Alumni Day Mass on October 3, honoring the late Father Thomas J. Kram, longtime member of the Seminary Board of Regents. Taking part in the Mass, in the photo above, left, were, Deacon Seth Wymer of the Diocese of Steubenville; retired Archabbot Paul R. Maher, O.S.B.; Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B.; Bishop Winter; and Most Rev. Roger J. Foys, Bishop of Covington, Kentucky, and Deacon Timothy Marcoe of the Diocese of Harrisburg.


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“He just seemed to know when a seminarian from a southern climate might be in need of a winter coat, and he would help. He was 100 percent priest. Everything in his life was his priesthood.”

Throughout his life, Father Kram’s compassion was obvious, from the care he gave as a young priest to an older dying priest, to the time he talked a woman down from a Pittsburgh bridge. She felt that no one cared for her as she prepared to jump to her death. But Father Kram climbed up to her, talked to her, even offered a

small token of caring—some lemonade—and she came down from the bridge to safety.

In his later years, he served as vicar for retired priests in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, until he was frail himself and his memory was fading and, he had to be cared for in the priests’ retirement home which he had helped to manage. Beloved by so many as he lay dying, some 30 priests came by to bless him and offer comfort.

The work done by Father Kram laid the groundwork for the successful efforts of the Seminary fundraising campaigns, and even after he left for other assignments in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, he continued to help Saint Vincent, Father Acklin said. The growth experienced by the Seminary then led to the expansive building projects that followed.

“He was a very good, happy man, a very good priest, who told me he really wanted to come to Saint Vincent to build up his spiritual life, to study for his ‘finals,’ for the last judgment. He was a great example for our seminarians of a very prayerful diocesan priest,” Father Acklin said. “He told me that the saddest day of his life was when he had to leave Saint Vincent. As he was leaving, he knelt down in the parking lot and asked for my blessing.”

Born on December 7, 1923, on Pittsburgh’s North Side, Father Tom Kram earned a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy from Saint Vincent College in 1946, then entered Saint Vincent Seminary, completing his studies

in 1949. He also studied at Duquesne Prep School, the University of Pittsburgh and Saint Mary’s College in Kentucky. He received the Saint Vincent Alumni Master of Divinity Degree in 1992.

He was ordained to the priesthood on June 12, 1949 and assigned to Saint Wendelin in Carrick until 1955. He served at Saint Mary in Beaver Falls for the next six years, then moved to Saint Peter on the North Side through 1967. While he was at Saint Peter, he also was the Headmaster of Domenec Diocesan High School for Girls for two years. He spent the next twenty years at Saint Germaine in Bethel Park and then spent three years at Saint Mary’s Help of Christians in McKees Rocks. From 1977 until 1980 he was Dean of the South Hills Deanery of the Diocese of Pittsburgh and Dean of the Northeast Deanery from 1987 to 1990.

Besides his work as Dean of Advancement at the Seminary, he also was a Board of Regents member serving as Advance Gifts Chairman in the Preserving the Vision Capital Campaign and as Regional Gifts Chairman for the Expanding the Vision Capital Campaign.

After leaving his post in development at the Seminary, he later served as Vicar for Retired Priests in the Diocese of Pittsburgh. He also was a Tribunal Judge for the Pittsburgh Diocese for five years, a member of the priest Personnel Board for five years and was director of the Priest Benefit Plan.

Father Tom also served on the Saint Vincent Alumni Council. His work for Saint Vincent was rewarded with several honors. He received the Seminary Distinguished Service Award in 1988 and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree in 1993. He also received the Father Camillus Award for service and devotion in 1986 from the Saint Vincent College Alumni Association.

With respect for his lifelong dedication and interest in ensuring that each seminarian received the financial aid necessary to complete his education, the Seminary established a scholarship fund in his name. Father Tom was survived by several beloved nieces.

“He was a very humble, good man. Long before his death, people said that Pope John Paul II would be remembered as Pope John Paul the Great,” Father Acklin said. “I would like to say that I will always remember Father Tom as Father Tom Kram the Good. He was so good to so many people. I loved him dearly. He was very special to me.”

Seminary Loses Very Special Friend(Continued from Page 5)

“I would like to say that I will always remember Father Tom as Father

Tom Kram the Good. He was so good to so many people.

I loved him dearly. He was very special to

me.”—Father

Thomas Acklin, O.S.B.

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Alumni Day Pays Tribute To Father Kram

Top photo: Alumni Day Mass. Bottom photo, left: Sr. Barbara Jean Donovan speaks about Father Thomas Kram at the Alumni Day dinner. Bottom photo, center: Bishop Roger T. Foys of the Diocese of Covington gives the Benediction.Bottom photo, right: Dr. John C. Marous, Jr., Chairman of the Board of Regents, gives remarks.

FATHER KRAM SCHOLARSHIPYes, I am interested in helping

support Saint Vincent Seminary’s Scholarship Program.

$25 $50

$75 $100

$250 $500

$1000 $5000

Name _______________________

Address _____________________

_____________________________

City _________________________

State ________ Zip ____________

Phone _______________________

Please send your contribution to Saint Vincent Seminary, Development Office, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA 15650-2690, and note that it is for the Father Kram Scholarship. For more information call Paul R. Whiteside, Director of Development, 724-532-6740.


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Msgr. Paul Lenz: Apostle for Indian MissionsIt has

been more than 25 years since Msgr. Paul A. Lenz took over the helm of the Bureau of Catholic I n d i a n M i s s i o n s . During that time, he has worked tirelessly to raise funds for U.S. mission work.

The long-time member of

the Seminary Board of Regents has increased contributions from $2 million when he took over directorship of the Bureau, to more than $8.4 million. Recently, Saint Vincent Seminary received another generous gift of $100,000 from the Bureau, to the Cardinal John O’Connor Scholarship Fund. The scholarship fund provides assistance with a preference given to seminarians of Native American heritage.

The Black and Indian Missions Office was formed in 1874, and is currently funded by a national collection during the first Sunday of Lent.

The Bureau helps in various ways, ranging from paying salaries of religious sisters to

teach at a Catholic school, to purchasing textbooks for a catechism program. His organization funds the National Black Catholic Congress in Baltimore, and many other organizations.

Msgr. Lenz graduated from Saint Vincent College in 1946, and Saint Vincent Seminary in 1949. He was ordained in 1949 for the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown. He received an honorary doctorate from the Seminary in 1995 for his work with the Bureau. He was named a Papal Chamberlain on Dec. 16, 1960, and a Prelate of Honor on Dec. 10, 1982. He served on the Seminary Board of Regents from 1984 to 1992, until his reappointment to the board in 2000.

For more than twenty years he served in parishes in the Altoona-Johnstown diocese. Then he responded to a call from Pope John XXIII in the 1960s for priests to work as missionaries. He served in Paraguay, and worked in a remote jungle region without benefit of running water or electricity to establish a mission. At the time the military government officials mistreated the people (under dictator Alfredo Stroessner), and only the Catholic Church spoke on behalf of the people. Once, he and other missionaries were imprisoned for a week after they spoke on behalf of the Guarani Indians after they had been defrauded by a new regional governor.

Msgr. Lenz speaks Spanish fluently, and also offers Mass in the language of the Guarani. In 1974 Bishop James Hogan asked

Msgr. Paul A. Lenz

Indians dancing in the Village of Turtugas, near Las Cruces, New Mexico, for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. They dance three days. Photo courtesy of Msgr. Paul A. Lenz.


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Seminary’sOpening Day

MassAbove, Father Maurus B. Mount,

O.S.B., (left), and Juan-Pedro Reyna, publicly proclaim their oaths of fidelity to Church teaching during the opening day Mass. At right, Father Justin M. Matro, O.S.B., and Father Charles A. Byrd distribute Holy Communion during the Mass.

him to return home to assist in the diocese. He did, but realized his heart was still in Paraguay. In the fall of 1975, John Cardinal Krol, a member of the Board for the Black Catholic and Indian Missions, asked Msgr. Lenz to serve as the Bureau’s new director. Although disappointed that he could not return to Paraguay, he accepted the job, officially assuming his new duties on July 5, 1976.

He struggled hard to keep Catholic Indian schools open, in spite of federal funding losses, and began a series of direct mail campaigns to raise money. He also began to coordinate Bureau activities, traveling

throughout the country to meet with various support organizations. He began a newsletter which now has a circulation of more than 20,000. He also revitalized the Tekakwitha Conference, which was formed in 1939 as a forum for Catholic missionaries to discuss their concerns, going from 48 attendees at the 1977 conference to more than 3,000 two decades later. He also launched the cause to have Kateri Tekakwitha promoted to sainthood. She was beatified in 1980, becoming the first North American Indian beatified by the Catholic Church. His work has also been inspired by Saint Katharine Drexel, who worked to evangelize the Native American community throughout her life.

Apostle for Indian Missions(Continued from Page 8)


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Presidential Inauguration

By Vanessa Shepherd

On October 2, 2006, H. James Towey was inaugurated as president of Saint Vincent College. He was appointed to the position on April 18, 2006, and began his role as president on July 1, 2006. The ceremony, accompanied by evening vespers, took place in the Saint Vincent Basilica. Over 2,000 guests were invited to the ceremony and dinner including clergy, college faculty, college students, family, and friends.

Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt of the Diocese of Greensburg was also in attendance for this important milestone in the history of the Saint Vincent community. Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Chancellor of Saint Vincent College and Seminary, began the ceremony with the opening welcome. Vespers followed. Mrs. Mary Towey, the president’s wife, read the Scripture passage for the divine office.

Before the closing of vespers, J. Christopher Donahue, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Saint Vincent College, made the inaugural proclamation attesting to President Towey’s enthusiastic personality, outstanding work history, and honor as being one of the fifty most influential Christians in America.

Archabbot Douglas then presented President Towey with the presidential insignia. The inaugural address followed.

He began by quoting a line spoken by the Virgin Mary in the Magnificat, “My soul

proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,” noting, “those words express the sentiments of my heart at the moment.”

“Saint Vincent is now our home and I’m proud to be joined to its history as its 16th president,” he said. President Towey recently moved to Latrobe with his wife, and five children, James Marion, Joseph Marius, Maximilian Marian, John Mariano, and Marie Therese.

President Towey then spoke of his heroes: Mahatma Ghandi, John Paul II, and Mother Teresa. Quoting each of them, he spoke of their motivation and love used to transform our culture and “pursue the truth.” He also recognized the amazing faith that Saint Vincent is rooted in, as he spoke of the founder of Saint Vincent, Boniface Wimmer.

“I look in the bright faces of our youth and I am not discouraged,” he said. “Students have such a hunger for the authentic.” He added that students have the power to change the world and to have faith “in the power of the small, humble, and hidden.”

President Towey, who served with the Missionaries of Charity on legal matters to Mother Teresa from 1985 to 1997, dedicated his presidency to Mother Teresa, whose “eyes burned with care and compassion.

Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Chancellor, President Jim Towey and J. Christopher Donahue, Chairman of the Saint Vincent College Board of Directors, during the inauguration of Jim Towey as President of Saint Vincent College. President Towey, former Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, received an honorary doctorate from Saint Vincent Seminary in 2004.


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Her response to human suffering was simple: she loved.”

“Our journey does not end here on Earth,” he said. But until we meet again in Heaven “may we move forward, always forward, everywhere forward.”

Following the end of vespers, the Most Rev. Lawrence E. Brandt, Bishop of Greensburg, said he believes Mother Teresa “is looking down on [the president] and Saint Vincent from her window in Heaven.” Using an airplane flight analogy, Bishop Brandt said that he is glad to be on the president’s “flight” and that “our seat belts are fastened for a great ride.”

The ceremony was followed by an inaugural dinner and reception at Saint Vincent College. A sit-down dinner was served followed by the singing of the traditional Benedictine Ultima.

Prior to coming to Saint Vincent, President Towey worked on President Bush’s Senior Staff as Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. He received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Saint Vincent Seminary in May of 2004

In 1996, he founded a national non-profit organization, Aging with Dignity, that assists individuals and their families during times of serious illness. The program was created to challenge the growing euthanasia and assisted suicide epidemic.

In Flordia, he was a member of Governor Lawton Chiles’ Cabinet and served as secretary of the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services. He also served as legislative director and on the legal counsel of United States Senator Mark Hatfield.

President Towey is a 1978 graduate of Florida State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree. He continued on to earn his Juris Doctor degree from Florida State University College of Law in 1981.

He succeeds the Saint Vincent College’s first lay president, James F. Will, who served the college as president since 2000.

Presidential Inauguration(Continued from Page 10)


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Father David Brzoska, a priest from the Diocese of Charlotte, North Carolina, and a graduate of Saint Vincent Seminary, has been appointed Vice Rector of the Seminary.

Father Brzoska was released to serve at the Seminary in 2004 by Bishop Peter Jugis, J.C.D., Bishop of Charlotte. At that time he was named Director of Pastoral Formation and Director of Hispanic Ministries.

Father Brzoska had been the pastor of two western North Carolina parishes, Saint Andrew the Apostle Parish in Mars Hill

Hispanic Ministries Program Welcomes New Faculty Member

By Vanessa Shepherd

“I felt like I was losing my soul slowly in the government.” This sentiment led Juan-Pedro Reyna to a drastic life change in 2003, a path which eventually led him to Saint Vincent Seminary.

He moved to the United States and began studies at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio.

“I spent some time doing something for myself, and felt it was time to do something for others,” said Reyna. He was recently appointed as an adjunct faculty member in the Hispanic Ministry program at Saint Vincent Seminary.

Reyna, originally from Sonora, Mexico, has a Juris Doctor degree in law from the University of

Sonora, Mexico, as well as a degree in physical education from Escuela Normal Superior, Tepic, Mexico.

After his graduation in 2000, Reyna worked as a lawyer for the district attorney’s office in Mexico. At the same time, he served as a basketball coach for boys and girls from kindergarten to high school age, which he had

been doing in various school districts since 1992. From 2001 to 2003, Reyna also acted as the Dean of Discipline at the Irish Institute, a Catholic school in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico.

“Basically, I changed my field,” he said, and “I combined my two jobs.”

“I have been working in the Church since I was a kid,” he added, so it is no surprise that Reyna found his calling at Saint Vincent. He has worked with various youth ministry groups, been a social volunteer (hospitals and funerals), done apostolic work, was a confirmation catechist and worked in prison ministry. He was also coordinator of baptism ministry and Hispanic ministry at St. Mary Catholic Parish in Chandler, Arizona. As a native of Mexico, Reyna knows first-hand the Hispanic culture and its people, and brings that experience to the seminary.

Father David Brzoska, director of the Seminary’s program, notes it is one of the fastest-growing populations of the Catholic Church in the United States today.

“I really like Saint Vincent,” said Reyna, “The Lord gave me a great opportunity to be here.”

He is currently teaching intermediate conversational Spanish, advanced con-versational Spanish, and the Hispanic Ministry seminar. His goal is to “help the seminarians understand and serve the Hispanic people.”

Juan-Pedro RaynaHispanic Ministries

Father David T. Brzoska Named Vice Rector

Father David BrzoskaVice Rector

and Sacred Heart Church in Burnsville. Both parishes included significant Hispanic communities. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 3, 2000 after earning a master of arts degree in theology with a concentration in Sacred Scripture in 1999 and a master of divinity degree in 2000 from Saint Vincent Seminary. He was a recipient of the Honorable Judge Bernard F. Scherer Award from the Seminary in 1999. In 1983 he received a bachelor of science degree in biochemistry from Penn State. He is a 1980 graduate of Spring Ford Senior High School.

He is the son of Alice and Bernard Brzoska of Phoenixville, Pa.

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By Vanessa Shepherd

With Hispanics representing over forty percent of the Catholic population in America today, the Committee of Bishops and the Secretary for Hispanic Affairs of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) are stressing the need for priests to be educated in Hispanic Ministry. Saint Vincent Seminary has had a Hispanic Ministries program for many years, and continues to address the need for training of future priests in Hispanic Ministry.

Father David Brzoska, who directs the Seminary’s program, has been the pastor of two parishes in North Carolina, Saint Andrew the Apostle and Sacred Heart Church, where there were strong Hispanic communities. So he has witnessed firsthand the need for programs for seminarians to learn the culture’s traditions and customs so that they can better minister to this population.

This summer, Father Brzoska accompanied a mission trip of fourteen high-schoolers and five adults from Saint Andrew’s Catholic Church in Madison County, North Carolina, to Tijuana, Mexico. The parish youth group went through a program called Esperanza International (Esperanza meaning “hope”), an organization that looks to build homes for those in need.

While there is physical construction

involved, the program’s “main goal is building community,” said Brzoska. Esperanza brings in volunteers from all over the world to create a “better awareness and understanding of different cultures and situations.”

Seven girls, seven boys, two priests, a youth director, a nurse and a pharmacist joined forces for the Tijuana trip. Esperanza International provided housing for the group as well as professionals to supervise and instruct the students on how to lay a foundation for a house.

Mission Trip To Mexico Helps Build Community



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“Everything’s done by hand,” said Father Brzoska. The team worked all morning and afternoon for a week straight digging for the foundation and then building its walls. The walls required much teamwork during construction.

Mary Rita Balogh, a member of the Saint Andrew Youth Group, noted that “arriving at the work site was difficult for me because of the poverty that was there, I was not used to it. There were dirt roads, homes that didn’t have doors on them and animals running loose in the road. They used sheet metal for the fences around homes. I will tell you, they gave more to us than we would ever give back to them. They treated us with so much respect and opened their hearts and homes to all of us. They were so genuine—a family with hearts of gold.”

In the evening, the members of the group went to various locations to learn more about the Hispanic culture and minister to its people in need. They visited an orphanage and a Catholic-run migrant house, which is a place where deported Mexicans can stay for a couple weeks to find work and housing. They also spent an evening on the Mexico/United States border speaking with locals about their perspective on border issues. Trip participants also had the chance to experience the aesthetics in Hispanic culture through authentic meals, dances, and crafts made by the women of the community.

“Although we stayed in Tijuana for almost a week, what we brought back will last a lifetime. We saw first hand how God transcends culture, nationality, language, and brings His children together, thus reminding us that He is a God of peace and love, for that is what we received, and hopefully, that is what we gave,” said Father Adrian Porras, a participant. For Father Brzoska, the trip not only helped residents of Tijuana, it reinforced his work in the Seminary’s Hispanic Ministries program. Father Brzoska developed a DVD slide show on the summer experience, and has shared his work with seminarians and parishioners.

‘This trip reinforced for me what it means to be a Catholic,” Father Brzoska said. “Although we are separated by language, culture and borders everyone worked together not to just help build a house but to build relationships. While we hope that the house will last for many years, the new understanding and love we shared through our experience will stay in our hearts forever.”

Mission Trip To Mexico(Continued from Page 13)

HISPANIC MINISTRIES

Yes, I am interested in helping support Saint Vincent Seminary’s

Hispanic Ministries Program.

$25 $50

$75 $100

$250 $500

$1000 $5000

Name _______________________

Address _____________________

_____________________________

City _________________________

State ________ Zip ____________

Phone _______________________

Please send your contribution to Saint Vincent Seminary,

Development Office, 300 Fraser Purchase Road,

Latrobe, PA 15650-2690, and note that it is for Hispanic Ministries.

For more information call Paul R. Whiteside, Director of Development, 724-532-6740.

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Annual Scholarship Dinner Held

Father Thomas P. Acklin, O.S.B., was the keynote speaker at the Seminary’s annual scholarship dinner, held this spring at Churchill Valley Country Club. Father Thomas recently had two books published, The Passion of the Lamb, and The Unchanging Heart of the Priesthood.

By Vanessa Shepherd

As an undergraduate student, Tim Marcoe was interested in the heavens. But his degree in meteorology from Millersville University wasn’t where God was leading him. Now in his sixth year of studies at Saint Vincent Seminary, his heavenly interests are taking him in a different direction, as he prepares for his ordination to the priesthood in 2007.

Marcoe, who was ordained to the transitional diaconate this spring, spent part of last summer exploring yet another facet of his priesthood studies as he visited Mexico to put to use his studies in Hispanic Ministries.

“I’ve always had an interest in learning about new cultures,” Marcoe said, noting his four years of high school Spanish piqued his interest in the culture. He took two years of Spanish classes at Millersville, and then conversational Spanish at Saint Vincent. Finally, he visited Mexico twice to better learn about the Hispanic culture and put into practice his language skills.

From June to July 2005, Marcoe and fellow diocesan seminarians traveled to Queretaro, Mexico, which is three and a half hours north west of Mexico City. There they studied at OLÉ: Center for Spanish Language and Culture. OLÉ staff members help students from all over the world learn more about the Spanish language and culture.

“It was a really neat environment,” said Marcoe, who had classmates from Switzerland, Germany, Canada, as well as the United States. The school admits less than 40 students at a time, which provided the seminarians with small, intimate classes.

“At times it was just me and the teacher in class,” said Marcoe. Classes began around 9 a.m. and consisted of two hours of grammar, and another hour of Spanish conversation. OLÉ also offered many cultural experiences for the

students by providing demonstrations in Mexican cuisine, dances, and plays.

On weekends, the seminarians traveled to different parishes where they got to see a lot of diverse communities. “We got to know some of the distinctive personalities of the parishioners,” said Marcoe. At the time, the seminarians were not ordained deacons, but they still had the opportunity to read and serve at Mass. This involvement with the people of the parish is where their experiences with Hispanic Ministry were the most valuable. Twice a week, the seminarians also had the opportunity to visit Asilo, a home run by nuns who would take care of disabled older women. The seminarians would go and visit and talk with the often lonely women.

“Their speech wasn’t always clear,” said Marcoe, “but it was a language of love.” Marcoe added that it was a very “humbling experience” for the group.

Each seminarian stayed with a host family. The Harrisburg deacon still keeps in touch with his host family. His most enjoyable memory was his host family’s large midday meal. The daily event was very family-oriented as the family’s three grown daughters and their families all came together to partake.

“It really made me feel part of what was going on,” said Marcoe. This gave him the chance to really bond with all members of the family. Just as Marcoe was finishing up his eight-week stay, two of the daughters brought new life into the world as they gave birth to two little ones.

That added a little sun not only to the former meteorologist’s visit, but to his whole experience in Hispanic Ministries.

Mexican Experience Helps Harrisburg Seminarian


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Archbishop Pietro Sambi Receives Honorary Degree

Commencement AddressBy Archbishop Pietro Sambi

I am very grateful to Archabbot Douglas Nowicki for his gracious invitation to offer this commencement address, here at Saint Vincent Seminary. It is a pleasure to be with His Excellency Bishop Lawrence Brandt, the Bishop of Greensburg, with the monks of this Archabbey, with the graduates, their families and all who have gathered to celebrate this important milestone in your lives and in the life of the Church.

In this beautiful celebration of Vespers, the Sacred Scripture from the Letter to the Hebrews invites us to reflect on three poignant and beautiful qualities of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

He learned obedience from what he suffered.

Throughout his life and ministry Jesus always united his own will to that of his heavenly Father. “Doing the will of him who sent me and bringing his work to completion is my food” (Jn.4:33). During this Easter Season, as we meditate upon the Paschal Mystery, we see the Cross as the summit of Christ’s life and teaching. When asked which is the greatest commandment, our Lord replied—”You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets.” (Matt.22:37-40)

There on the Cross the message of Christ was expressed in more than words. The vertical movement of the Cross reminds us of a life lived in prayer and in conformity with the will of the Father. As He hung upon the Cross, he

united himself completely with the Father and finally he declares, “Father, into your hands, I commend my spirit.” (Lk.23:46)

The horizontal direction of the Cross invites the believer to recall that Jesus spent his entire life stretching his arms out to those in need, always loving the neighbor. He touched the eyes of the blind and he gave sight; he extended his hand to the deaf and he gave hearing; he embraced the leper and he restored flesh; he touched the corpse of a widow’s son and he gave life. Jesus constantly extended his hands in tireless acts of love; until bound to the hard wood and pierced with steel nails, with his arms stretched on the Cross, Christ demonstrated that supreme act of obedience to the Father and love for all men and women.

He became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.

In the third chapter of John’s Gospel we read that “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (Jn. 3:16) In the Mystery of the Incarnation we encounter a God who loves us so completely that He takes on flesh and walks among us: he becomes like us in all things but sin. Jesus tells his disciples—“I am the Way and the Truth and the Life” (Jn. 14:6) and he shows us, by his own example the way we should live our lives if we are to be fully alive men and women. His way is the way of obedience to the Father

BiographyArchbishop Sambi

was named Apostolic Nuncio to the United States by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI on December 17, 2005. Archbishop Sambi was born on June 27, 1938, in Sogliano sul Rubicone, Forli, Italy. He was ordained a priest in the Diocese of San Marino-Montefeltro on March 14, 1964. He holds doctoral degrees in Sacred Theology and in Canon Law from the Lateran University in Rome.

He started his service in the Diplomatic Corps of the Holy See in April of 1969, in Cameroon. He was transferred to the Apostolic Nunciature in Jerusalem on July 19, 1971, and subsequently to the Apostolic Nunciatures in Cuba in 1974, in Algeria in 1978, in Nicaragua in 1979, in Belgium in 1981, and then in India in May of 1984 with the rank of Counselor.

Archbishop Sambi was consecrated Bishop and made Titular Archbishop of Belcastro on November 9, 1985.

He was nominated Pro-Apostolic Nuncio in Burundi on October 10, 1985, Pro-Apostolic Nuncio in Indonesia on November 28, 1991, and Apostolic Nuncio in Israel and Cyprus, and Apostolic Delegate in Jerusalem and Palestine on

Archbishop Sambi with Pope John Paul II in Israel.

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and loving service to our neighbor. In Him we find the Truth about God and the human person. God is Love and we who are created in His image and likeness are called to live in love. If we embrace that Truth and follow his Way then we experience the abundant Life that he promised. The disciple who lives his or her life rooted in Christ has the guarantee that death has already been conquered by Christ’s glorious Resurrection and each of us will share in the promise of everlasting life.

Jesus is designated by God as High Priest according to the order of Melchizedek.

As these graduates know from their study of Sacred Scripture and theology, the role of the priest in ancient Jewish practice was critically important primarily because it was the priest who would offer the sacrifice of animals in the temple, so as to win God’s favor for His people.

Jesus, through his suffering and death on the Cross, becomes the Great High Priest who offers himself as the perfect sacrifice, one and for all. By His death and the spilling of His Blood forgiveness of sin is available to all who would believe in Him. He is the new temple and wherever the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is offered the Sacrifice of Calvary is re-presented and we are invited to share in His Blood, offered for the forgiveness of our sins. Thus, Jesus’ Priesthood fulfills the promise of the Old Testament and in His Resurrection he is raised up by the Father; His is the Eternal Priesthood and the Eternal Sacrifice—”He entered not with the blood of goats and calves, but with his own blood, and achieved eternal redemption. How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal spirit offered himself up unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from dead works to worship the living God!” (Heb. 9:12, 14)

This commencement ceremony commemorates your academic achievements and success. Certainly, you should be congratulated and celebrated. However, the far more important moment will come by the Grace of God, when you are ordained to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ. The call to the Priesthood, the call to be configured to Christ, the call to Preach the Word of God and celebrate the Sacraments of the Church—is a unique and precious one that is borne out of our Lord’s prayer and communion with the Father and brought about by the action of the Holy Spirit. Such a call can never be

thought of as casual, temporary or merely functional. It is a gift that is given to you by Divine Providence. This gift is given to you freely; it is given not because of merit, right or privilege.

The beloved, Pope John Paul II, spoke of the Priesthood as “A gift for all times and for people of every race and culture. A gift that is renewed in the Church, through God’s unchanging mercy and the generous, faithful response of so many frail men. A gift that never ceases to amaze those who receive it.” (Osservatore Romano, May 2000, No. 21, pg.3)

Such a gift demands that the one who is called, respond in humility and obedience. Pride, arrogance, ambition—all contradict the very essence of the priest’s vocation and ministry. The Priesthood must never be thought of as a job or a career in which one positions himself for promotion or advancement. To be humble and to obey, the priest must be a man of prayer. Like Christ, he must place himself in communion with the Father. Thus meditating on the call of Christ, the priest is prepared to follow the movement and direction of the Holy Spirit and he is disposed to serve Christ’s Church with a true docility of spirit and an unhesitating surrender to God’s Will.

This surrender that Christ asks of his Priests takes shape and form especially in the beautiful gift of celibacy and of poverty and of obedience. The priest, and those who are preparing for the Priesthood, must live chastely as celibates, directing all desires and yearnings to God—who alone can satisfy the deepest longings of the human heart. Here in this seminary, you have been given the opportunity to develop this purity of heart which enables you to integrate and order all your emotions and longings to God—who generously gives the Grace that is necessary for the celibate life. Today, perhaps more than ever before, the world needs to see the faithful witness of celibate priests who like Christ, freely lay down their lives for the sake of the Kingdom of God.

Together, you are a great sign of hope. Yes, to be a priest is a wonderful vocation! It is sacrifice, it is joy, it is gift and it is mystery. Your eagerness to serve in the Priesthood of Jesus Christ, your willingness to sacrifice and your generosity of spirit gives joy to the Holy Father’s heart and also gives hope to the Church.

Archbishop Pietro Sambi Receives Honorary Degree

June 6, 1998. A Nuncio represents the Holy Father to the hierarchy and the Church of a particular nation and to its civil government.

Known as a man of peace, humility and strong will, Archbishop Sambi most recently was honored in Jerusalem for his efforts to return pilgrims to the Holy Land after the Palestinian uprising that began in 2000. He was lauded for his ability to follow his own faith while building a bridge between religious leaders and respecting the faith of others.

Archbishop Sambi negotiated to free the Basilica of the Nativity in Bethlehem after it became the site of a standoff between Palestinian militants and Israeli forces. He stressed that “this is the time to abide by the words and concepts that were born here: love, forgiveness, reconciliation, justice, peace, resurrection.”

During his difficult tenure as Nuncio in Israel, Archbishop Sambi pushed for a special status for Jerusalem that would safeguard the freedoms of religion for all, equality before the law for the three monotheistic religions, the proper identity and sacred character of the city and its universally significant religious and cultural heritage, as well as freedom of access to and worship in the holy places.

Biography

Seminary Commencement

2006


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Seminary Commencement 2006Apostolic Nuncio to the United States Archbishop Pietro Sambi received an honorary doctorate from Saint Vincent

Seminary at its spring commencement. In the photos at the center spread, clockwise, from top, left: • Archbishop Sambi processes into the Basilica.• Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Chancellor, and Rev. Cyprian G. Constantine, O.S.B., present Archbishop

Sambi with his honorary doctorate as Rev. Kurt Belsole, O.S.B., looks on.• Dr. John C. Marous, Jr., Chairman of the Seminary Board of Regents, gives remarks during the evening vespers

ceremony.• Archabbot Douglas, Archbishop Sambi, The Most Rev. Lawrence E. Brandt, J.C.D., Ph.D., Bishop of Greensburg, and

Dr. Marous in the sacristy prior to the ceremony.• Bottom left photo, front, from left, are Rev. Justin M. Matro, O.S.B.; Father Cyprian; Archabbot Douglas; Archbishop

Sambi; Bishop Brandt; Dr. Marous and Father Kurt. In the middle row, from left, are Aron Maghsoudi, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown; Mark Gallipeau, Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston; Ilse Hilliard, master of arts; Anne Holmes, master of arts; Alejandro Ayala, Diocese of Charlotte. In the third row, from left, are Joseph Carr, Diocese of Pittsburgh; William Barron, Diocese of Erie; Br. Marion Charboneau, O.S.B., Saint Benedict’s Abbey; Matthew Albright, Diocese of Youngstown; James Campbell, Diocese of Erie; Charles Ugo, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown. In the fourth row, from left, are Br. Paul Paproski, O.S.B., Saint Peter’s Abbey; Sebastian Renault, master of arts; Ronald Zoracki, master of arts; Br. Mark Purcell, O.S.B., Mary, Mother of the Church Abbey; Charles McGinnis, Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston; Slawomir Bystrzykowski, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown: and Br. Marous Mount, O.S.B., Saint Vincent Archabbey.

In the photos on this page, Father Kurt and Father Cyprian present awards to: top photo, left, Ronald Zoracki, Sacred Scripture Award; top, right, Joseph Carr, Diakonia Award; bottom, left, William Barron, Honorable Bernard F Scherer Award; and Rafael Carballo, Archdiocese of Atlanta, Rev. Omer U. Kline, O.S.B., Homiletics Award.

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Ten students received the Master of Divinity degree, eight students were awarded a Master of Arts degree and three students earned a Bachelor of Sacred Theology degree at the Saint Vincent Seminary commencement held on May 5.

His Excellency Archbishop Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, received an honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree.

Receiving the Master of Divinity degree were Horacio Alejandro Ayala, Diocese of Charlotte; Slawomir Bystrzykowski, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown: Joseph A. Carr, Diocese of Pittsburgh; Marion Charboneau, O.S.B., of St. Benedict’s Abbey, Atchison, Kansas; Mark Thomas Gallipeau, Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston; Aron M. Magsoudi, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown; Charles Eugene McGinnis, Jr., Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston; Paul Paproski, O.S.B., of Saint Peter’s Abbey, Canada; Mark A. Purcell, O.S.B., of Mary Mother of the Church Abbey, Richmond, Virginia; and Charles Ugo, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown.

Receiving the Master of Arts degree were Matthew Joseph Albright, Diocese of Youngstown; William R. Barron, Diocese of Erie; Marion Charboneau, O.S.B., St. Benedict’s Abbey, Atchison, Kansas; Ilse T. Hilliard of Homer City; Ann Steiner Holmes of Ligonier; Jeffrey Andrew Patrizio of Pittsburgh; Sébastien H. Renault of Paris, France, and Ronald Stephen Zoracki of Mount Pleasant.

Awarded the Bachelor of Sacred Theology were James C. Campbell, Diocese of Erie; Maurus B. Mount, O.S.B., Saint Vincent Archabbey.

Four academic awards were presented. William R. Barron of the Diocese of Erie received the Honorable Judge Bernard F. Scherer Award. Ronald Zoracki of Mount Pleasant was named recipient of the Sacred Scripture Award. Joseph A. Carr of the Diocese of Pittsburgh was presented with the Diakonia Award, and fourth-year student, Rafael Carballo of the Archdiocese of Atlanta was named the recipient of the Omer U. Kline, O.S.B. Homiletics Award.

ARCHDIOCESE OF ATLANTARafael Carballo is a 1980 graduate of

Colegio Espíritu Santo, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture from Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, in 1985. He was ordained a permanent deacon, February 2, 2002, and is a fourth-year student. He received the Omer U. Kline Homiletics Award. The Rector’s Council chooses the recipient of the award. It is given to the fourth-year student who has most clearly demonstrated excellence in preaching during his fourth year of study.DIOCESE OF ALTOONA-JOHNSTOWN

Slawomir Bystrzyskowski studied philosophy and theology at the Major Seminary at Czestochowa, Poland, from 1996 to 2000. He also studied systematic theology at Seton Hall University from 2002 to 2004.

Aron M. Maghsoudi is a 1998 graduate of Greater Latrobe High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in religious education from Saint Vincent College in 2002.

Charles C. Ugo is a 1995 graduate of Nguru Secondary Commercial School, Nigeria, and earned a bachelor of philosophy and R.A. degree from Claretian Institute of Philosophy in Nigeria in 2000. He earned the Master of Arts degree from Saint Vincent Seminary in 2005, with high honors.

DIOCESE OF CHARLOTTEHoracio Alejandro Ayala is a 1978

graduate of Colegio Nacional Bartolomé Mitre. He attended the Universidad del Norte Santo Tomás de Aquino in Argentina from 1979 to 1980.

DIOCESE OF ERIEWilliam R. Barron is a 1999 graduate

of Cathedral Preparatory School, Erie. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Gannon University in 2003. He received the Honorable Judge Bernard F. Scherer Award. The student who most exemplifies the qualities evident in the life of Judge Scherer is given this award by the faculty. Criteria for this award include a breadth of learning, knowledge which allows one to integrate theology and the life of the People of God with

academic areas, wisdom and the ability to see the interconnectedness of all life, the practice of corporal works of mercy, witness to faith and a hope-filled attitude.

James C. Campbell is a 1998 graduate of Cathedral Preparatory School in Erie and a 2002 graduate of Gannon University, with a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and philosophy. He earned the Master of Arts degree from Saint Vincent Seminary in 2005, with highest honors. He also received the Diakonia Award in 2005, based on academic performance, service to the community by upbuilding student morale and spirit, leadership, and creative outreach. The award is given by the faculty.

DIOCESE OF PITTSBURGH

Joseph A. Carr is a 1975 graduate of Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism from West Virginia University in 1980. He has done graduate studies in philosophy and pre-theology at Duquesne University and at the Heinz School of Public Policy and Management at

Seminary Commencement 2006



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Carnegie Mellon University. He received the Diakonia Award. All members of the Seminary community nominate the graduating student who most fulfills the criteria for this service award, which is given by the faculty. Included in the criteria are academic performance, service to the community by upbuilding student morale and spirit, leadership, and creative outreach.

DIOCESE OF WHEELING-CHARLESTONMark Gallipeau is a 1974 graduate of

Groton Senior High, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy from Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio.

Charles E. McGinnis, Jr., is a 1984 graduate of Wheeling Park High School. He earned a regents Bachelor of Arts degree from West Liberty State College in education in 1990.

DIOCESE OF YOUNGSTOWNMatthew Joseph Albright is a 1999

graduate of Marlington High School, Alliance. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy from the Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus, in 2003.

MARY MOTHER OF THE CHURCH ABBEY

Mark A. Purcell, O.S.B., is a 1989 graduate of Parkersburg High School, Parkersburg, West Virginia. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education, with a major in mathematics, from Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, in 1994. In 2004, he earned the master of arts degree from Saint Vincent Seminary, with highest honors.

SAINT BENEDICT’S ABBEYBr. Marion M. Charboneau, O.S.B., is the son

of Donald Charboneau of Council Grove, Kansas and the late Joyce Charboneau. He is a 1989 graduate of Council Grove High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history in 1993 and a Master of Arts degree in American History in 1995 from Emporia State University, Kansas.

SAINT PETER’S ABBEYBr. Paul B. Paproski, O.S.B., of St. Peter’s

Abbey, Muenster, Saskatchewan, is a 1981 graduate of Hudson Bay Composite High School. He studied journalism at the University of Saskatchewan from 1981 to 1983 and earned a degree in journalism in

1985 from the University of Regina.SAINT VINCENT ARCHABBEY

Br. Maurus B. Mount, O.S.B., is a 1996 graduate of Melbourne High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in classical languages from Marquette University in 2000. He earned the Master of Arts degree from Saint Vincent Seminary in 2005, with highest honors.

MASTER OF ARTSIlse Hilliard resides in Homer City and is a

retired professor of sociology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She earned both a bachelor and a master’s degree at IUP.

Ann S. Holmes earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in English and Asian Studies from Hood College in Frederick, Maryland in 1981. She is currently the Concert Manager and Fine Arts Associate for the Department of Fine Arts at Saint Vincent College, a position she has held since 1995.

Jeffrey Patrizio is a 1994 graduate of Plum Senior High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in human development and family studies from Penn State University in 1999, and has done graduate work in theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville.

Sébastien H. Renault is a 1996 graduate of Centre National d’Enseignement a Distance, Rennes, and has studied philosophy at Ecole Cathédrale de Paris, Paris.

Ronald S. Zoracki of Mount Pleasant earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy, with distinction, from Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, in 1978, and a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science from the University of Pittsburgh in 1981. He also has studied library science at the University of Pittsburgh. Mr. Zoracki is a member of Visitation Roman Catholic Church in Mount Pleasant, Diocese of Greensburg.

Mr. Zoracki is the recipient of the Sacred Scripture Award. The Sacred Scripture faculty chooses the recipient of this award which is given to the graduating student who has demonstrated excellence in the study of Sacred Scripture.

Seminary Commencement 2006(Continued from Page 21)

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By Michael ZavageDiocese of Pittsburgh

Any lucrative company will tell you that advertising is the key to success. If no one knows about your product, it will not sell. Father James Wehner, rector of Saint Paul Seminary, has told us seminarians that we are the best witness in promoting vocations. In the last three years, we have assisted Father Wehner and the diocesan Office for Voca-tions by personally getting involved with the formal efforts to promote vocations.

First, a group of us approached Father Wehner asking if we, the seminarians, could publish a quarterly newsletter that tells the story of what seminary life is all about. Taking the coat of arms of Archbishop Donald Wuerl (past Bishop of Pittsburgh) in Latin, our newsletter, Adveniat Regnum Tuum (May Your Kingdom Come), is our way of informing others what seminary life is like while giving the reader an opportunity to get to know us better.

The newsletter is circulated throughout the diocese and quickly became a useful resource for vocation councils and men discerning the priesthood. While many other dioceses have a seminary newsletter, the publication is unique because it was created, written and designed by seminarians.

Almost every weekend, seminarians from Saint Paul in Crafton visit parishes in the diocese to learn more about the faith communities and to let parishes see that there are men studying for the priesthood. During those visits, we deliver a testimony during Mass of why we entered the seminary, meet with young people in religious education classes and talk with other parish groups who host us.

In the last four years, we have visited more than 60 parishes. This has been a tremendous experience for us. It makes us even more excited to become priests when we meet new people every weekend.

Our latest project, currently up and running, is an interactive web site that gives information about priestly vocations. The site can be accessed through the diocesan web site at www.diopittorg/vocations. The idea came last year when I asked Father Wehner about the possibility. He told me to go ahead and propose some ideas.

I worked with other seminarians, friends at Duquesne University and staff in the diocesan Department for Communications to create what is the most extensive and comprehensive vocational web site in the nation. It includes features like an online quiz, registration and calendar of upcoming events. You can take the vocational quiz, and the server will tally up your answers and give you a response. You can also view information about the seminarians in the diocese and read our personal biographies to get a feel for all of our backgrounds and vocation stories.

This extensive site has a page devoted to frequently asked questions about the life of a seminarian, and a page for the “come and see” programs that help men familiarize themselves with the seminary process. There is also a resource page with additional literature and a page that focuses on the basics of discernment. And if someone is interested in discerning the priesthood, they can now register online for additional information and for “come and see” programs.

I really enjoy telling my story of how God called me to discern the priesthood. All of the seminarians have a story to tell, and we have used the media and other communications to get the word out. However the Church reminds us that everyone is called to be a promoter of vocations.

Thanks to everyone who supports us seminarians, and a special assurance of prayer for those men who might be thinking of priestly formation.

Seminarians’ Outreach Helps Promote Vocations


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New Tax Law Benefits Charitable Giving

Paul R. WhitesideDirector of Development

It is once again my pleasure to address you, our valued friend of Saint Vincent Seminary. For this issue of Leaven, I have decided to make use of this space to provide some education to you regarding a very positive change in the Federal Tax laws that can benefit both you and the Charity of your choice. The specific name of the law is the Pension Protection Act of 2006. On August 17th of this year, President Bush signed the bill for this Act. For the purposes of this article, I would like to summarize the tax benefits to you regarding your IRA.

The essential benefit of the new law is this: You can now make a direct gift to charity from your IRA with absolutely no tax consequences. In the past, if you withdrew funds from your IRA, you first had to declare that as income, and then you would

also declare the gift to the charity as a deduction. In most cases, this resulted in a negative tax consequence to you, the donor. Under the new law, you can contribute up to $100,000 per

year directly from your IRA to a

charity of your choosing. For the tax years 2006 and

2007, an IRA rollover gift creates neither new income to report nor taxes to pay. The law also requires the donor to be at least age 70.5 years of age to qualify for the tax exemption.

As an example, suppose you intend to donate $100,000 from your IRA to Saint Vincent

Seminary for the purpose of an academic scholarship. Under the old regulation, if you were in the 35% tax bracket, you would pay $35,000 in taxes, and then claim the $100,000 as a charitable donation. Under the new law, you no longer need to claim the $100,000 as income, nor do you take the $100,000 deduction. The gift is essentially a “wash” from a tax perspective.

As a qualified charity, we are hopeful that this law will be extended to future years beyond 2007, but at this time we do not know what will happen beyond 2007. As such, it may be important to act soon to take advantage of this regulation change. Please consult your tax attorney or accountant to discuss the specific details of this tax change.

As we approach the end of our tax year, we thank you for your past gifts and prayers. Without you, our benefactors, we would not be able to accomplish our goals, and our goal to become one of the best seminaries in the nation.

For more infor-mation please con-tact the Seminary Development Offi-ce at 724-532-6740, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA 15650-2690, [email protected].

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To give a tribute or memorial gift, please make a donation to Saint Vincent Seminary in honor of a friend, colleague or family member. Donations should be mailed to Mr. Paul R. Whiteside in the Seminary Development Office, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, Pa., 15650-2690, telephone 724-532-6740. Donors from February 1, 2006 to October 10, 2006 include:

IN HONOR OF:

REV. THOMAS P. ACKLIN, O.S.B.Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Barbiaux

REV. GILBERT J. BURKE, O.S.B.Mrs. Margaret V. Kraft

REV. DEMETRIUS R. DUMM, O.S.B.Mrs. Imogene Reidy

COL. AND MRS. LAWRENCE HOFFMANMrs. Carolyn Engstrom

REV. ARON M. MAGHSOUDIMr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Rubino

MR. JOHN J. NEWMEYERChuck and Donnie BuchanonRev. Gilbert J. Burke, O.S.B.Goldy ButlerTom and Flo ClaybaughBob and Janice DavisSec and Marie DeAngeloJane DixonBetty ErnetteBernard and Noreen FazziniLibby, Ann and Leonard FranksKathie GrevemeyerDon, Regina and Celine HaasSam and Karen HainesCaroline KocianEmerick, Martha and Fran KravekJoe MihalikJoe and Helen MurphyEd and Mary Carole RileyEd and Do RitzerDave and Wanda RoscoeAntoinette SpinelliPaul and Carole Whalen

MRS. BERNADETTE PEVARNIKSr. Cecilia Murphy, R.S.M.Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Pevarnik

MR. AND MRS. JOSEPH C. PEVARNIKMr. and Mrs. Mark A. PevarnikMr. and Mrs. Stephen P. Pevarnik

REV. PAULINUS J. SELLE, O.S.B.Mr. and Mrs. Christopher B. Casey

ALL SLOVAK SEMINARIANS FROM SLOVAKIAMr. and Mrs. Emerick A. KravecREV. PAUL R. TAYLOR, O.S.B.Mr. and Mrs. Robert TaylorMSGT. AND MRS. THOMAS B. ULAMMsgt. and Mrs. Thomas B. UlamREV. FRANK E. ZIEMKIEWICZMrs. Orma S. McKeon

IN MEMORY OF:

+LEO M. BACHAMrs. Barbara L. Bacha

+ANDREW BALASHMark and Cynthia Holko

+REV. ALBERT C. BICKERSTAFF, O.S.B.Mr. and Mrs. William W. Shearouse, Jr.

+MRS. JEAN BOOSELMr. and Mrs. Joseph V. AmbroseMr. and Mrs. Gilbert D. Pastor

+REV. GERARD BRIDGE, O.S.B.Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Ransel

+REV. RAPHAEL BRIDGE, O.S.B.Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Ransel

+REV. BONIFACE T. BUERKLE, O.S.B.Mr. Robert F. Seiler

+REV. ALOYSIUS D. CARASELLA, O.S.B.Rev. Gilbert J. Burke, O.S.B.

+REV. J. DAVID CROWLEYFred and Patricia Summa

+FRANK CUDNIKMrs. Stella M. Cudnik

+CARL AND ANN D’ARGENTOMr. and Mrs. Frank Fodge

+JAMES D. GROTEMrs. Helen S. Kontor

+MRS. MARGARET E. HARTMr. and Mrs. Joseph V. Ambrose

+MR. JAMES G. HIPPMr. and Mrs. Bruce A. ButlerMr. and Mrs. Herbert L. Bent

+MRS. BLANCHE M. HIPPSDr. and Mrs. Gene F. Leonard

+REV. ARTHUR J. HOLTZ, O.S.B.Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Holtz

+VINCENT PAUL KELLYMr. Richard E. Armstrong, Jr.

+REV. THOMAS J. KRAMRev. Charles J. BaptisteMs. Rosemary A. BormanMr. and Mrs. Robert A. BurryMrs. Patricia M. Coghlan

Memorial and Tribute Gifts

Harry Murray Completes

Board Service


Harry Murray has completed his term of service on the Seminary Board of Regents. Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Chancellor, thanked Mr. Murray for his years of service and the board in its entirely expressed its unanimous gratitude for his consistent demonstration of faith, wisdom, competence, and goodwill in his generous support and dedication to the Seminary’s development during the past three years.

Mr. Murray, who joined the board in 2002, attended Harvard Business School and received a bachelor of arts degree in accounting from Saint Vincent College in 1951. Prior to his appointment as chief financial officer and vice president of finance at Westinghouse (1988 to 1990), he was staff vice president reporting to the corporate controller (1987 to 1988), chief executive officer of Group W Cable (1983 to 1987), vice president of pension investments and investor relations (1979 to 1983), divisions general manager of the electronics divisions (1977 to 1979), and in charge of strategic planning for the defense and government groups (1971 to 1976). He also served as comptroller for defense divisions and for the electric-mechanical division, and has worked in headquarters, government accounting, and payroll accounting and budgeting. He joined the staff at Westinghouse in 1951.


26

Byron and Maria DavidsonMr. and Mrs. James F. DeCapriaMrs. Margaret G. EllisMr. and Mrs. James R. FerryKathryn L. Galbraith, M.D.Mr. Paul J. GitnikJoyce and Clem GrossMrs. Carmella HamerskiThe Hertenstein FamilyMr. and Mrs. Frank P. HessRev. Mark A. HoffmanRev. John J. KeaneMr. Daniel J. KramEdward and Michelle KramMs. Joan A. KramMr. Matthew L. KramFamily of Paul L. Kram, Sr.Mr. Peter Kram and Ms. Anne GrayhackMr. Philip E. KramEleanor and Thomas KrebsSusan and Don KumlerRev. Hugh J. LangRev. Joseph C. LinckRobert and Rhonda LuczakMike and Mary Ellen MackinMr. and Mrs. Edward F. MaziarzMost Rev. John B. McDowellMs. Barbara MichenerMr. Joseph J. MillerSr. Barbara Ann Moravec, O.C.D.Beth and Luke MulhernMr. and Mrs. Anthony MutschlerMiss Ermalyn M. RoosDr. and Mrs. Perry C. SmithRev. F. Raymond TranceRev. Joseph J. Trapp, IIMr. Stephen J. VitaMr. and Mrs. William F. VitaRev. George A. Wilt

+REV. GEORGE T. LEECHRev. Robert J. Reardon

+REV. GERMAIN L. LIEB, O.S.B.Mrs. Jean HammerMr. and Mrs. Wilbur HoltzDr. and Mrs. Gene F. Leonard

ALL LUCCI FAMILY MEMBERSMr. Oswald Lucci

+JOSEPH A. AND KATHERINE M. MATTY

Mr. Melvin J. Matty+REV. ALPHONSE H. MEIER, O.S.B.

Mrs. Marion CronauerMs. Martha M. MeierMs. Ruth M. Meier

Tribute Gifts +MRS. MARGARET MUNSCHAAA East Central Board of DirectorsAllegheny Energy in GreensburgAllegheny Energy Legal/Claims Dept.Doug and Libby BehlingMr. Clay Beringer, IIIMs. Dolores ButlerWilliam and Ann CarlsonThe Courter FamilyCo-workers from Allegheny Audit OfficeMr. and Mrs. Charles DeFrancescoR. A. and Gail GagnonHerb and Jeanne JonesMrs. Mary Helen JordanD. KillianMr. David J. Killian, Jr.Ms. Mary M. KolbMary Lou and George KruthMarianne and Ken LamneckDr. and Mrs. Gene F. LeonardMrs. Orma S. McKeonMs. Betty J. MoranMr. and Mrs. Richard J. MunschMr. David F. X. Murray andMs. Carol A. MurrayNeighbors and FriendsMs. Mary A. NovotnyMs. Monica A. OtteMs. Kathryn L. PattonRobert and Judy SandsScholastic Canada Ltd.Mr. and Mrs. George ShrakeMr. and Mrs. Miles Stipanovich, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. John P. SurmaExecutive Office of Transtar, Inc.Law Department of United States Steel CorporationMr. and Mrs. Lou Wass, Jr.David and Laura WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Thomas D. WinnerMr. and Mrs. Bradley D. WolfJohn and Marlene Yokim

+THOMAS J. MUNSCH, JR.Mrs. Mary Helen Jordan

+REV. HARRY R. SANGLGreg and Lorie FisherMr. and Mrs. Robert T. GahlesBob and Judy MadderGloria SanglMr. and Mrs. David W. StackLinda Wiesinger

+WILLIAM W. SHEAROUSE, SR.Mr. and Mrs. William W. Shearouse, Jr.

+REV. BRENDAN L. SMETANA, O.S.B.Ms. Julie E. Conway

+JOSEPH SUNIEWICKMrs. LaVerne Suniewick

+NICK TROILOMr. and Mrs. Thomas Tatananni


Saint Vincent Archabbey Publications 2006

Saint Vincent Seminaryfrom its Origins to the Present

Daniel J. Heisey

with a Foreword by Jerome Oetgen

Seminary History

Now AvailableSaint Vincent Seminary is the oldest

major seminary in the United States operated by Benedictine monks. Canonically established in 1855 by Pope Pius IX, the Seminary’s roots lie much farther back in time. With the new millennium, the Seminary enters its third century; during that time it has given the Church more than forty bishops and abbots, both in America and in Europe. Also among its alumni are musicians and historians, labor priests and biblical scholars. This history traces the growth of the Seminary from its origins in Bavaria to its activities today, while keeping in view the wider field of Christendom.

This new book was written by Brother Bruno Heisey, an alumnus of Dickinson College, where he studied classics, and Saint Vincent Seminary, where he studied theology. He has also pursued medieval studies at the University of Cambridge. He is a Benedictine monk of Saint Vincent Archabbey, The book is available for $14.95 plus $4.95 shipping from Archabbey Publications, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA 15650-2690. Pennsylvania residents must also include state sales tax. The book can also be ordered online by visiting the Archabbey Publications webstore at http://www.stvincentstore.com.

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Saint Vincent Seminary welcomed nineteen new students for 2006-2007.

ARCHDIOCESE OF ATLANTAJasen Lee Blehm of Acworth, Georgia,

is the son of Nicholas and Connie Blehm of Acworth. He is a 1999 graduate of Craven Community College, Havelock, North Carolina, and studied philosophy at Saint Joseph Seminary College, Saint Benedict, Louisiana.

Carlos Antonio Florez of Atlanta is a 1999 graduate of Juan Manuel Rudas High School, Remolino, Colombia. He received a diploma in philosophy from Seminary Maria Immaculada in Garzon, Colombia in 2003.

Thang Minh Pham of Oakwood, Georgia, is the son of Tuong Minh Pham and Bay Thi Le of Oakwood, Georgia. He is a graduate of Centre Louis Jolillette, L’Education Pour Adults, Quebec, Canada. He attended College do Limoilou in Quebec and earned a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy from Saint John’s University, New York, in 2005.

Carlos Eduardo Vargas-Silva of Atlanta is the son of Jaime Vargas and Mariana Silva of Florencia, Colombia. He is a 1986 graduate of Colegio Migani in Florencia. He earned a diploma from the Angelicum in Rome in 1999, studying international law. His undergraduate degree from Saint Thomas University in 2000 was in law.ARCHDIOCESE OF CAMPINAS, BRAZIL

Jose Alexandre Missio of Campinas, Brazil, is the son of Jose Primo de Jesus Missio and Neusa Odete Pitão Missio of Campinas. He is a 1990 graduate of Fundagõo Bradesco de Campinas and studied philosophy at the Pontificia Universidade Catolica de Campinas.

DIOCESE OF CHARLESTONMichael Alan Kirk of Simpsonville,

South Carolina, is the son of Robert and Sandra Lee Kirk. He is a 2001 graduate of Southside High School, Greenville, and earned a bachelor of arts degree from the Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus, Ohio, in 2005.

DIOCESE OF COVINGTONLawrence Anthony Schaeper of Fort

Wright, Kentucky, is the son of Donald and Mary Jo Schaeper of Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a 1983 graduate of Roger Bacon High School, earned a bachelor of science

in business administration degree from Xavier University in 1988 and studied at Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary, Cincinnati, from 1998 to 2003.

DIOCESE OF ERIEChristopher Michael Barnes of

Rouseville is the son of Martha S. Barnes of Rouseville and Charles W. Barnes. He is a 1989 graduate of Oil City Area Senior High School and studied at Gannon University from 2004-2006. He has also studied at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pittsburgh at Titusville, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, where he earned a bachelor of science degree in biology, and the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science, where he received an associate degree in specialized funeral service arts and sciences in 1999.

Michael Charles Polinek of Erie is the son of Mark Charles Polinek of Girard and Charlene Ann Polinek of Erie. He is a 1997 graduate of McDowell High School and earned a bachelor of arts degree in liberal arts from Gannon University in 2006.

DIOCESE OF HARRISBURGMatthew Robert Larlick of Philadelphia

is the son of Edward J. and Elizabeth A. Larlick of Doylestown. He is a 1987 graduate of Central Bucks High School East, and earned a bachelor of science degree in economics from Penn State in 1991.

DIOCESE OF PITTSBURGHRobert Wayne Fleckenstein is the son

of Wayne R. and Mary K. Fleckenstein of McKeesport. He is a 1995 graduate of Serra Catholic High School, McKeesport, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in religious studies from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2000. He also studied philosophy at Duquesne University.

DIOCESE OF ST. THOMASErnesto Rodolfo Rodriguez of St. John,

Virgin Islands, is the son of Rosa Elena Mendizabal of Lima, Peru, and the late Julio E. Rodriguez. He is a 1984 graduate of Agustiniano San Martin de Porres, Lima, Peru. He earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the Pontificia Universidad Catolica, Lima, in 1992.DIOCESE OF SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

Jorge Andrés Bedoya of Augusta, Georgia, is a son of the late Horacio and Ligia Bedoya. He graduated from Colegio de Occidente, Colombia, in 1992, and earned a bachelor in philosophy degree

in 2002 from the Universidad Pontificia Boliviariana, Colombia. He also studied theology there from 2003-2004..

Vernon William Knight, Jr. is the son of Vernon Knight, Sr., and Rebecca Knight of Warner Robins. He is a 2002 graduate of Warner Robins High School and earned an associate degree in teacher education from Macon State College in 2006.

SAINT BENEDICT’S ABBEYBr. Luke Charles Baker, O.S.B., of

Atchison is the son of Richard and Terri Baker of Warrensburg, Missouri. He is a 1999 graduate of Rockhurst High School, Kansas City, and earned a bachelor of arts degree from Benedictine College, Atchison in 2003. He studied English, philosophy and religious studies.

Br. Gregory James Dulmes, O.S.B., of Atchison is the son of Jeffrey Dulmes of Mesa, Arizona and Bonnie Dulmes of Morton, Illinois. He is a 1995 graduate of Morton High School, Illinois, and studied at Bradley University from 1995 to 1996. He studied chemistry at Illinois Central College, East Peoria; earned a bachelor of arts degree in history from the University of Illinois, Urbana, in 2000 and has studied pre-theology at Benedictine College.

Br. Jeremy Phillip Heppler, O.S.B., of Atchison is the son of Harry and Catherine Heppler of Parsons, Kansas. He is a 1996 graduate of Kapaun Mount Carmel Catholic High School, Wichita, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy, religious studies and Spanish at Benedictine College, Kansas, in 2000.

SAINT VINCENT ARCHABBEYBrother Elijah Cirigliano, O.S.B. is the

son of Caesar and Patricia Cirigliano of Waccabuc, New York. He is a 1990 graduate of John Jay High School, Katonah, New York. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in English from Duke University in 1993, and also studied at Saint Joseph Seminary in 2002-2003.

Brother Nathanael Edward Polinski, O.S.B., is the son of Mary Ann Polinski of Duquesne and the late Raymond E. Polinski. He is a 1983 graduate of Serra Catholic High School, McKeesport, and earned a bachelor of science degree in metallurgical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh in 1987. He received a master of business administration degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1993.

Seminary Welcomes 19 New Students


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So We Do Not Lose Heart: Biblical Wisdom for All Our Days, the latest book by Father Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B., was featured in the August 25 edition of Pittsburgh Catholic. In a story written by Patricia Bartos, Father Demetrius notes that if he could summarize the Bible in one word, it would be ‘promise.’

Everything in it, he said, “points toward the future, and a true believer is not one who enjoys all kinds of satisfaction here, but rather one who lives in promise.”

The 83 short reflections in the book are “reminders of the realistic but wonderfully hopeful wisdom of the Bible as we look for meaning and encouragement in the midst of weakness and decline.”

Father Demetrius added that “Jesus’ teaching that ‘the only true freedom comes from converting love received into love given is at the very heart of his wisdom.’

“This is not easy to understand since we often find it hard to receive love because we think that there may be too many strings attached. And we are right in the sense that being loved enables us to love others, and that includes an

obligation to do so.“But if we have the courage to offer

our love to others we soon discover to our amazement that we are more free than ever. This can only be because we were created for this purpose and, therefore, are fulfilling our destiny and are seizing the most wonderful opportunity that life can offer us.”

* * * * *Deacon Shawn Matthew Anderson,

O.S.B., of Saint Vincent Archabbey, has been appointed to diaconal service at Saint Benedict Parish in Carrolltown, the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, under the pastorate of Father Vincent E. Zidek, O.S.B.

* * * * *Father Rafael Angel Carballo-Arroyo

of the Archdiocese of Atlanta, who was ordained to the priesthood May 27, has been assigned as parochial vicar of Saint Brendan Chuch, Cumming. A native of Puerto Rico, Father Carballo told the Georgia Bulletin that he wanted to be a priest since he was 17, but his journey

(Continued on page 29)

George C. Dorman has joined the Saint Vincent Seminary Board of Regents. He is a retired executive vice president of Westinghouse Electric Corp.

Mr. Dorman was a vice president of Westinghouse from 1983 to 1992 and was appointed vice president, human resources, in January 1988. Mr. Dorman was responsible for all human resources matters at Westinghouse and for the Corporation’s Total Quality effort, including direction of the Westinghouse Productivity and Quality Center.

Mr. Dorman received a Bachelor of Science degree from Carnegie Institute of Technology in 1950 and joined Westinghouse as a student engineer that year. He advanced through a series of professional and managerial positions to become, in 1964, a group purchasing director. In 1971, he attended Harvard Business School’s advanced management program and was appointed general manager of the Electric Stairway and Hydraulic Elevator Division. In 1975 he was appointed director of human resources and strategic planning for the Construction Group, and in 1979, he became general manager of the Transportation Business Unit. In 1981, he was named

director of human resources operations for the Corporation. He served as vice president and general manager of the

Motor Business Unit from 1983 to 1986 and vice president for corporate quality from mid-1986 to December 1987. He retired from Westinghouse in 1992.

Active in Pittsburgh-area community affairs, Mr. Dorman is a director of the South Hills Health System, Blue Cross of Western Pennsylvania; the Central Blood Bank of Pittsburgh; and the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation.

Mr. Dorman and his wife, Eileen reside in Upper Saint Clair and are the parents of five children. They have been longtime supporters of Saint Vincent Seminary, establishing the George and Eileen Dorman Fund to provide assistance to seminarians, with preference given to international students with financial need who are sponsored by Saint Vincent Archabbey.

George C. Dorman Joins Board of Regents

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stook a circuitous route before his ordination 27 years later. He worked for 17 years in various supervisory roles for the Con Agra Poultry Co., including seven years in Dalton. Along the way, he was ordained a permanent deacon for the Archdiocese in 2001. He also adopted three sons who needed shelter and who are now all in their late 20s.

“I thank God for this opportunity,” to be a parent, he said, as his sons attended his ordination. “God speaks in funny ways, in awesome ways. God takes misfortunes and brings his awesome ways” to them.

* * * * *Dr. John C. Marous, Jr., Chairman of the

Saint Vincent Seminary Board of Regents, and Mrs. Lucine Marous, were recently named Knight Commander and Lady Commander of the Order of Saint Gregory the Great. The papal diplomas were presented by Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt of Greensburg. The papal Order of Saint Gregory the Great was founded by Pope Gregory XVI in 1831. Of the five pontifical orders of knighthood in the Catholic Church, it is the highest honor that a layperson can attain. It recognizes individuals’ outstanding contributions to the church and the community along with their personal character and reputation.

Awards are made on the recommendation of the diocesan bishop with final approval by the Vatican Secretariat of State.

* * * * *Saint Patrick Parish, Sugar Creek, the

parish of Father Anthony Ditto, celebrated its bicentennial this summer. Saint Martin Parish, New Derry, the parish of Father Martin Bartel, O.S.B., marked its sesquicentennial.

* * * * *Recent appointments in the Diocese of

Pittsburgh include:• Very Rev. Robert J. Boyle, V.F., C’59, S’63,

to administrator, Saint Isaac Jogues Parish, Elrama, and chaplain at Jefferson Regional Medical Center, effective July 5. Father Boyle maintains his responsibilities as pastor of Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, Finleyville, and dean of the Washington County East Deanery.

• Rev. Daniel A. Valentine, S’74, has been appointed as pastor of Saint James Parish, Sewickley.

• Rev. George E. Saladna, C’54, S’59, was appointed administrator of Saint Alphonsus Parish, Springdale, effective February 7.

• Very Rev. Robert J. Miller, C’75, pastor of Saint Pius X Parish and Our Lady of Loreto Parish, Brookline, and part-time chaplain at Seton-LaSalle Catholic High School, was named vicar forane of the South Pittsburgh Deanery,

effective June 26, through the end of May 2007 to complete the term of Very Rev. Frank D. Almade.

• Rev. Kenneth E. Kezmarsky, S’86, from chaplain to the Catholic patients and staff at West Penn Allegheny Health System/ Canonsburg General Hospital and designated nursings homes in the Canonsburg area, to administrator, pro-tem, of Saint John Parish, Coylesville, effective July 14.

• Rev. Robert A. Kohuch, C’62, S’66, was granted a leave of absence as pastor of Saint Isaac Jogues Parish, Elrama, and chaplain at Jefferson Regional Medical Center, for health reasons.

• Rev. Alvin J. Adams, C’63, S’67, from administrator, Saint Rita Parish, Whitaker, to pastor, Resurrection Parish, West Mifflin, and pastor, Saint Rita Parish, Whitaker, for a term of six years, effective June 6. He maintains his responsibilities as part-time chaplain at Bishop Canevin High School.

• Rev. Anthony Gargotta from parochial vicar, Saint Bernadette Parish, Monroeville, and part-time chaplain at Serra Catholic High School, to pastor, Saint Edward Parish, Blawnox, and pastor, Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, Harmar/Indianola, for six years, effective June 6.

• Rev. James B. Krah, C’70, S’71, to pastor, Saint Rose of Lima Parish, Darlington.

Among those attending the Seminary’s fourth year dinner with Chuck McGinnis (back left), were front, from left, Betty Fundy, Darleen Koury, Michele Cope, parish staff members; and Father Lawrence L. Manchas, pastoral supervisor, Saint Sebastian, Belle Vernon.




Condolencesare offered to:

Rev. Daniel C. Wolfel, O.S.B., P’46, C’50, S’54, on the death of his sister Edna Brennen on July 29.

Rev. Robert J. Castelucci, S’64, on the death of his brother Russell J. Castelucci on June 5.

Msgr. J. Edward McCullough, S’67, on the death of his sister Eileen Janowski on June 26.

Rev. Gerard A. Trancone, S’69, on the death of his sister Mary Lou Trancone on June 7.


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• Rev. Thomas A. Sparacino from pastor, Saint Mary of Mercy Parish, Pittsburgh, to pastor, Saint Martin de Porres Parish, McKeesport, for a term of six years, effective June 6. He maintains his responsibilities as co-director of the Office for Vocations.

• Rev. James G. Young, S’69, from secretary for ministerial leadership to pastor, Saint Therese of Lisieux Parish, Munhall, for six years, effective June 6.

• Very Rev. John M. Bachkay, S’83, from administrator to pastor, Risen Lord Parish, Marshall/Shadeland. He remains as pastor of Incarnation of the Lord Parish, Observation Hill/Perry North and dean of the North Side Deanery.

• Rev. David D. DeWitt, S’84, from administrator to pastor, Saint Joseph Parish, North Oakland. He remains as pastor of Mater Dolorosa Parish, Chicora.

• Rev. Mark A. Eckman, S’86, from administrator to pastor, Saint Joseph Parish, North Oakland. He remains as pastor of Saint Sylvester Parish, Brentwood.

• Rev. Edward S. Litavec, C’56, S’60, from administrator to pastor, Saint Pius V Parish, McKeesport. He remains as pastor of Saint Mary Czestochowa Parish, McKeesport.

• Rev. George J. Moneck, S’89, from administrator to pastor of Saint Joseph Parish, Roscoe. He remains as pastor of Saint Thomas Aquinas Parish, California, and director of campus ministry at California University of Pennsylvania.

• Rev. Robert G. Duch, C’61, S’64, has been appointed to a third six-year term as pastor of Word of God Parish, Rankin/Swissvale, effective May 23.

• Rev. Carl J. Gentile, S’60, has been appointed to a third six-year term as pastor of Saint John Fisher Parish, Churchill, effective June 27.

• Rev. Lawrence V. Holpp, C’56, has been appointed to a second six-year term as pastor of Saint Ignatius of Antioch Parish, Bobtown, effective July 24.

• Rev. Gary W. Oehmler, S’83, has been appointed to a second six-year term as pastor of Saint Wendelin Parish, Carrick, effective July 10.

• Rev. Pierre G. Sodini, C’65, has been appointed to a third six-year term as pastor of Saint Michael Parish, Avella, effective May 23.

• In accordance with the provisions of Canon 538.3, and at his request, the resignation of Rev. John A. Harvey, C’62, S’65, as pastor of Saint Alphonsus Parish, McDonald, has been accepted to be effective at a later date. He continues his pastoral responsibilities at Saint Alphonsus Parish, McDonald.

• Rev. John L. Gudewicz, C’66, S’70, from pastor, Saint Martin de Porres Parish, McKeesport, to administrator, All Saints Parish, Etna, effective June 5.

• Rev. Charles J. Baptiste, S’96, from parochial vicar, Good Samaritan Parish, Ambridge, and parochical vicar, Saint John the Baptist Parish, Baden, and part-time chaplain at Quigley Catholic High School, to parochial vicar, Saint Bernadette Parish, Monroeville, and part-time chaplain at Serra Catholic High School, effective June 5.

• Rev. Nicholas M. Mastrangelo, C’60, from parochial vicar, Saint Therese of Lisieux Parish, Munhall, to part-time parochial vicar, Saint Therese of Lisieux Parish, Munhall, and part-time parochial vicar, Resurrection Parish, West Mifflin, effective June 5.

• Rev. Joseph E. Sioli, C.O., S’96, from the campus ministry staff for the Ryan Catholic Newman Center, Pittsburgh, to parochial vicar, Saint Therese of Lisieux Parish, Munhall, effective

Among those attending the Seminary’s fourth year dinner with Br. Mark Purcell, O.S.B., (center), were Rev. Patrick C. Barkey, and Rev. David A. Driesch, S’82.


(Continued from page 29)

Condolencesare offered to:


Rev. Regis M. Farmer, C’68, S’73, on the death of his mother Margaret E. Farmer on May 20.

Jerome Oetgen, Ph.D., C’69, S’73, on the death of his mother Mary Oetgen on July 18.

Rev. John E. Forbidussi, S’94, on the death of his father Leo T. Forbidussi on April 19.

Rev. Thomas F. Hamm, Jr., S’00, on the death of his father Thomas F. Hamm, Sr. on August 11.

Rev. Terrence P. O’Connor, S’01, on the death of his father Mayor Bob O’Connor on September 1.

Rev. Brian D. Boosel, O.S.B., C’96, S’03, on the death of his mother Jean Boosel on April 28.

Rev. Steven V. Neff, S’05, on the death of his sister Toni J. Schnell on April 3.

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sJune 5.

• Rev. Robert W. Habe, C’58, has been given permission to begin retirement and to complete his priestly assignment as pastor of Transfiguration Parish, Russellton, effective June 5.

• Rev. Hugh J. Lang, C’53, S’56, has been given permission to begin retirement as pastor of Saint Therese of Lisieux Parish, Munhall. He is residing in Saint Anne Parish, Castle Shannon.

• Rev. Russell J. Maurer, C’56, S’60, has been given permission to retire as pastor of Saint Edward Parish, Blawnox, effective June 5. He is residing at Saint Malachy Parish, Kennedy Township.

• Rev. Hugh J. McCormley, C’58, S’62, has been given permission to retire as pastor of Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, Harmar/Indianola, effective June 5.

• Rev. Robert G. Turner, C’55, S’59, has been given permission to retire as pastor of Resurrection Parish, West Mifflin, effective June 5.

• Rev. Daniel A. Valentine, S’74, from pastor, Holy Spirit Parish, West Mifflin, and dean of the Steel Valley Deanery, to pastor, Saint James Parish, Sewickley, for a term of six years, effective June 26.

* * * * *Rev. Jeffrey E. Tigyer, S’99, has been

appointed as parochial vicar, Saint Joan of Arc Church, Powell. He had previously served as associate pastor, Seton Parish, Pickerington, in the Diocese of Columbus.

Rev. David J. Young, S’04 has been named pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Ada, and chaplain at Ohio Northern University, effective March 7. He was formerly associate pastor of Saint Agatha Parish, Columbus.

* * * * *Cardinal Adam J. Maida, C’53, D’02,

Archbishop of Detroit, celebrated his golden jubilee as a priest on June 8.

“The best part of being a priest is something so very fundamental that maybe most people take it for granted, and that is celebrating the Eucharist, because that is the source of energy, that is the reason for me being a priest and ultimately that’s what gives me the energy to keep doing God’s work,” he said “I’ve done this daily for 50 years, and it’s still just as vibrant, and even more so now.”

* * * * *Father James C. Campbell, S’06, and his

twin brother, Father Joseph C. Campbell, were ordained to the priesthood in Saint Peter Cathedral, Erie, June 23 by Bishop Donald W. Trautman.

The Campbell twins were featured on the cover of May/June issue of Faith, the Erie diocesan magazine, in an article entitled “twice blessed.” They grew up as members of Saint Francis Parish in Clearfield.

Father James has been named parochial vicar of Saint Michael Parish, Greenville, and its mission church of Saint Margaret, Jamestown, for a term of three years, effective July 5.

The Campbell brothers are the first twins to be ordained in the diocese. Both say they felt the call to priesthood at a very young age, either four or five.

“What occupies my prayer and feelings as I approach holy orders is the immensity of the task to which I have been called,” James said, “and the great need for priests in our world today.”

The youngest children in a family of thirteen, the twins credited their parents for “an unwavering witness of selfless, self-sacrificing love and fidelity,” Joseph Campbell said. ““They inspired us to be holy by the witness of their lives and through their instruction in the faith.”

“We raised our children the way we were brought up,” said their father, John Campbell, who was born in Scotland. They attended Mass each morning and said the rosary together each night, even after the children became involved in sports. “Sometimes they would finish their rosary on the way to practice,” Dolores

Rev. David T. Brzoska was the homilist at the Seminary’s annual fourth year recognition Mass.



Rev. Raymond A. Vollmer, S’40, on July 21.

Rev. Damian A. Abbaticchio, O.S.B., P’36, C’41, S’45, on June 19.

Rev. Germain L. Lieb, O.S.B., P’37, C’42, S 45, April 30.

Rev. Thomas J. Kram, C’46, S’49, D’93, on July 28.

Rev. Alphonse H. Meier, O.S.B., P’41, C’46, S 49, on June 8.

Deathsrecently reported:



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Campbell told Faith magazine. * * * * *

Bill Barron, a fourth year theologian, was ordained to the transitional diaconate in the Diocese of Erie on April 29. He was assigned to Saint Joseph Parish, Oil City, over the summer.

* * * * *Father John-Michael Lavelle,

S’99, has been appointed Pastoral Director of Catholic Television

Network of Youngstown (CTNY), effective May 18. He had served as

associate pastor of Saint Mary Parish, Massillon, in the Youngstown Diocese before being named pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish, Ravenna. He has also served as chaplain of the Serra Club of Youngstown and is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Diocese of Youngstown Foundation. The new appointment is in addition to his current assignment as pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish.

* * * * *Three Seminary alumni were honored at the

Saint Vincent Prep alumni reunion this summer.

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Rev. Omer U Kline, O.S.B., P’41, C’46, S’49, and Rev. Wilfred M. Dumm, O.S.B., P’37, C’42, S’45, received the Faculty Awards and Rev. Louis S. Sedlacko, O.S.B., P’35, C’40, S’44, received the Faculty/Headmaster Award.

* * * * *Rev. Joseph Carr, S’06, was ordained to the

priesthood by Bishop Donald W. Wuerl in the Diocese of Pittsburgh on May 20.

“Joe is a holy man that will serve our diocesan church with distinction,” said Father James A. Wehner, director of priestly formation for the diocese. “Anyone who knows Joe understands his love for Jesus Christ and the church.”

Carr has been named parochial vicar, Good Samaritan Parish, Ambridge, and parochial vicar, Saint John the Baptist Parish, Baden, effective June 5. He is also part-time chaplain at Quigley High School. He worked a number of jobs before hearing the call to priesthood, including serving as twelve years for the diocese as director of programs for the unemployed, and for U.S. Steel doing outplacement and career counseling for those who lost jobs.

“The priesthood isn’t something you choose for yourself,” Carr said. “God has to choose you.”



Rev. George T. Leech, C’52, S’56, on May 7.

Rev. John J. Cassella, C’54, S’58, on June 2.

Rev. Bernard T. Pagano, S’58, on August 1.

Deathsrecently reported:


Seminary Board of Regents member Archbishop Wilton Gregory of Atlanta was featured in the October 4 edition of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution for his golf game. “Golf shows human side,” was one of the subheads in the article. The article noted that “golf became a way for him to play out the advice of his mentor, Cardinal Joseph Bernardin of Chicago: ‘Be with the folks, or you’ll think the world is as crazy as the letters you get say it is’.”

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s* * * * *

The Hon. Maureen Lally-Green, State Superior Court Judge and member of the Seminary Board of Regents, received the Anne X. Alpern Award for excellence, devotion and impact on women in law. Judge Lally-Green is known as a teacher and mentor to women in the legal profession.

The award by the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Commission on Women in the Profession, was established in 1994 in honor of Ms. Alpern, who in 1959 became the first woman in the nation to be a state attorney general. She later served on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

Judge Lally-Green told Post-Gazette staff writer Allyson Russell that many well-known attorneys have had a significant impact on her life, but the one who influenced her the most was the late Judge Carol Los Mansmann, the first woman appointed to the federal bench in Pittsburgh, who was a “great mentor, person and a tremendous friend. We have to recognize that this is a profession where we are to assist people and to help them, we are counselors, and should never forget that we have to lend a helping hand to others in our field.”

* * * * *Two Saint Vincent Seminary graduates were

among four men ordained to the priesthood and two to the diaconate by Bishop Joseph V. Adamec of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown. Father Charles Chindu Ugo, a native of Okwu Nguru Mbaise, Nigeria, and Father Aron M. Maghsoudi, received their assignments following ordination. Father Ugo is parochial vicar of Our Lady of Victory Parish, State College, effective June 28. Father Maghsoudi is parochial vicar of the Blessed Sacrament Cathedral and Cathedral Master of Ceremonies, effective June 28.

* * * * *Two men from the Diocese of Greensburg

were ordained transitional deacons by Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt on April 30. Alan Polczynski completed his pastoral internship at Our Lady of Grace Parish, Greensburg, while Timothy Kruthaupt served his internship at Saint Margaret Mary Parish in Lower Burrell. Polczynski earned a bachelor’s degree in theater at Point Park University and spent many years working in the peforming arts, while Kruthaupt holds a law degree. Kruthaupt is the father of a son, Alex, 26, now serving in the U.S. Military in Iraq. Kruthaupt’s wife, Jane, died when their son was just 18 months old.

* * * * *In the Diocese of Savannah, Bishop J.

Kevin Boland appointed Rev. Chidi E. Osondu, S’05, recently ordained, as parochial vicar of

Saint James the Less Church, Savannah, effective June 15.

Rev. Mr. Stephen Pontzer. a fourth year theologian, served his summer diaconal ministry at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Savannah.

* * * * *Bishop Kevin C.

Rhoades made a number of appointments in the Diocese of Harrisburg, including:

• Rev. Donald W. Cramer, S’01, to campus minister, Bloomsburg University, and administrator of Christ the King Mission, Benton.

• Rev. Steven W. Fauser, S’02, from parochial vicar, Saint Joseph Parish, Hanover, and chaplain, Delone Catholic High School, McSherrystown, to parochial vicar, Saint John Neumann Parish, Lancaster.

• Rev. Michael E. Messner, S’97, to chaplain, Delone Catholic High School, McSherrystown. He continues as pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Abbottstown.

* * * * * Rev. Msgr. Vincent J. Topper, C’32, S’36,

celebrated 70 years in the priesthood. He is a retired Harrisburg diocesan priest. Other diocesan priests marking jubilees included Very Rev. James R. O’Brien, C’62, S’66, Corpus Christi, Chambersburg, 40 years; Rev. Lawrence R. Coakley, S’76, Saint Anthony of Padua, Lancaster, 30 years; Rev. Brian P. Conrad, S’76, Saint Philip the Apostle, Millersville, 30 years; Rev. Leo M. Goodman, S’91, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Lancaster, 15 years; Rev. Norman C. Hohenwarter, Jr., S’95, Divine Redeemer, Mount Carmel, 10 years; Rev. Michael C. Letteer, S’95, Seven Sorrows Blessed Virgin Mary, Middletown, 10 years; Rev. Donald W. Cramer, S’01, Hersey, 5 years.

* * * * *Douglas Ondeck was among four men

ordained a deacon by Bishop Michael J. Bransfield in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston on May 20.

* * * * *The May 2006 issue of Columbia, the

magazine of the Knights of Columbus featured Seminary graduate Father Jozef Kovacik, a native of Slovakia now serving in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown. Father Kovacik and his family practiced stealth Catholicism in his native country due to religious persecution, noted the article by Patrick Scalisi.

Even after the fall of the Iron Curtain, Father Kovacik did not forget the experiences



Pittsburgh dioce-san seminarian Rob Fleckenstein got a taste of mission life when he joined a group helping out at a Franciscan orphanage in Patzun, Guatemala, this sum-mer.

Seminarians were invited by the Francis-can Sisters, who ope-rate an orphanage for 70 children, and the Colegio San Bernardino School for a thousand children, as well as a medical clinic.

Fleckenstein was moved by the turnout for a late afternoon Mass and holy hour, and also “saw a real lesson about the civil war,” he told Pittsburgh Catholic staff writer Pa-tricia Bartos. “The chur-ch was oppressed and repressed, and still vo-cations began to flou-rish,” he noted about the 29 priests and one bishop killed during 36 years of civil war which ended in 1996.


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When Pittsburgh Mayor Bob O’Connor died of a rare form of brain cancer on September 1, thousands of admirers paid their respects to the long-time city councilman who had become mayor only eight months previously. The extensive media coverage of the city’s farewell to the mayor included a focus on the mayor’s family, his widow, Judy, son, Corey, daughter Heidi Garth, and his son, Father Terry O’Connor, S’01.

“Terry’s faith is unwavering,” said Rev. Joe Reschick, pastor of Saint Rosalia Church, Bob O’Connor’s parish. “He is such a wonderful person and friend.

More than 2,200 people attended

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that shaped him as a child. Those experiences also influenced his

priestly vocation.Now pastor of Saint Agnes

Church in Lock Haven, he became a Knight of Columbus during his first parish assignment, and is now a Fourth Degree Knight. Members of the Knights

attended the ceremony in which Father Kovacik became a

naturalized U.S. citizen, and Father Kovacik is also involved with the

Order’s expansion into Eastern Europe. “It is hard to describe how much I

have enjoyed my priestly life,” Father Kovacik concluded. “I intend to continue serving God’s people wherever the Lord calls me to the best of my abilities.”

* * * * *Pittsburgh diocesan priests celebrating

jubilees this year included: Father Thomas R. Murphy, S’36, 70 years; Father Peter A. Kuenzig, C’43, S’46, Father George V. Zackovic, S’46 and Msgr. John J. Seli, S’46, 60 years in the priesthood; Father John B. Corbett, C’53, S’56, Father Hugh M. Gloninger, C’53, S’56, Father Hugh J. Lang, C’53, S’56, Father Gerald J. Lutz, C’53, S 56, Father Michael C. MacVeigh, C’53, S’56, Father Harry E. Parsons, C’53, S’56 and Msgr. H. Jules Roos, C’53, S’56, 50 years; Father Jon J. Brzek, S’81, 25 years.

* * * * *Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory announced

priesthood assignments in the Archdiocese of Atlanta, effective June 15. They include:

• Father John T. Conway, S’99, pastor of Saint Joseph Church, Washington, and administrator of Saint Mary Mission, Elberton, and Purification Station, Sharon, has been assigned as pastor of Saint Anthony Church, Blue Ridge.

• Father Theodore R. Book, S02, parochial vicar at Saint Brigid Church, Alpharetta, has been assigned as chaplain at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Home, Atlanta. He will also assist in celebrating the Spanish Mass at Transfiguration Church, Marietta, and assume responsibilities for liturgical services in the Archdiocese of Atlanta.

• Father Bryan D. Small, S’01, parochial vicar at Saint Catherine of Siena Church, Kennesaw, has been assigned as chaplain at the University Catholic Center at Emory University, Atlanta, and Agnes Scott College, Decatur.

• Father Thony Roody Jean, S’99, currently working in prison ministry, has been assigned as parochical vicar of Saint Pius X Church, Conyers, effective June 22.

• Rev. Guyma Noel, S’97, pastor of Christ

Our Hope Church, Lithonia, has been given the additional assignment as liaison for the archbishop to the Atlanta Catholic Charismatic Renewal, effective May 30.

* * * * *Steubenville seminarians Bradley W. Greer,

Michael W. Gossett and John E. Labrise received summer assignments working in parishes. Greer was assigned to the Ironton Catholic Community where Father Thomas R. Nau is pastor at Saint Joseph and Saint Lawrence O’Toole churches. Gossett was assigned to Saint Mary Parish, Marietta, with Msgr. John Michael Campbell. Labrise was assigned to the Wintersville Catholic Community with Msgr. Gerald E. Calovini, pastor of Blessed Sacrament and Our Lady of Lourdes churches. Also in the diocese, seminarian Seth Wymer was ordained to the diacoante April 22 by Bishop R. Daniel Conlon. He spent the summer at Saint Agnes Parish, Mingo Junction.

* * * * *Barry O’Leary and William Dorner of the

Diocese of Pittsburgh were ordained transitional deacons on June 3 at Saint Bernadette in Monroeville by Most Rev. Paul Bradley, administrator of the Pittsburgh Diocese.

* * * * *The Diocese of Covington, Kentucky, under

the direction of Bishop Roger J. Foys, instituted a new summer seminarian program, a three-year formation program to provide more direction to pastors as to what to do with seminarians on summer assignment at their parishes. The program establishes structure and expectations and allows pastors to provide feedback.

Among Saint Vincent students participating were Martin Pitstick, All Saints, Walton, third theology; Matthew Cushing, Saint Henry, Elsmere, second theology.

Pitstick told The Messenger, diocesan newspaper, that the program will help facilitate the parish life experience and communications, and it will help seminarians learn from both the pastors and the people. “Each pastor and parish will have its own strengths that will be communicated to us verbally and non-verbally.”

* * * * *The Rev. George F. Spellman, S’61, of James

City, chaplain at Eastern State Hospital, has been named to the Joint Action in Community Service Honor Roll, announced by Chairman Roger Burgess in Washington. JACS is a national volunteer organization serving the young people who have been to Job Corps. JACS volunteers act as mentors to support the new skills learned at Job Corps training sites throughout the country. Spellman was executive director from 1975 to 1985, and continues to support



Late Mayor A Man Of

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svolunteer activities in greater Williamsburg. He is involved in the Coalition for Senior Services, Olde Towne Medical Center, Greater Williamsburg Association for Volunteer Administration, Religious Leadership of Williamsburg, Peace Corps Alumni and Chaplain Volunteers at Eastern State.

* * * * *Msgr. Maurice O’Connell, C’68, S’72, pastor

of Saint Michael, Ridge, was among seven priests receiving papal honors in May of 2006. Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, then-Archbishop of Washington, announced that Pope Benedict XVI bestowed the title Chaplain to His Holiness upon Msgr. O’Connell.

* * * * *Father Kurt Belsole, O.S.B., was interviewed

in Our Sunday Visitor regarding the impact of Pope Benedict XVI on seminarians, as well as on the recent apostolic visitation.

“Pope Benedict has been influencing seminaries and seminarians for years,” Father Kurt said. “For example, at Saint Vincent, long before he ever became pope, many of Cardinal Ratzinger’s books were in our syllabi, and his vision of liturgical life—a liturgical life that embodies the intended reforms of Vatican II—is something we’ve striven to pass on to our young men.”

His books, Called to Communion: Understanding the Church Today, Ministers of Your Joy, and The Spirit of the Liturgy, have addressed issues seminarians care deeply about, Father Kurt said. “His personal witness has also profoundly affected them. Seminarians recognize him as a man of deep faith with a love of the sacred liturgy—both of which matter greatly to them.”

Father Kurt added that “Today’s seminarians are generally men who have shared the faith and imbibed the joy and confidence of Pope John Paul II. They’re unburdened by the ideological agendas of earlier times and willing to commit themselves to the Gospel message if it’s presented in all its nobility and liberating force. They also desire a faith community and reverent liturgical celebrations that lead them to a deep personal relationship with God.”

* * * * *Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Harrisburg

ordained Timothy Marcoe a transitional deacon on May 20 at Saint Patrick Cathedral. Deacon Marcoe will be ordained to the priesthood next summer.

* * * * *Father Johannes Oravecz, O.S.B., of Dormition

Abbey, Jerusalem, visited the United States in October with Abbot Benedikt Lindemann, O.S.B. Their trip was to raise awareness of and support

for their work for peace in the Holy Land. They established an Interfaith Peace Academy, Beit Benedict, that provides to peoples diverse in faith, culture, and nationality, a neutral place in which to be guided in the path of peace through spiritual, cultural and educational programs. Father Johannes was featured in a photo exhibit, “Yearning for Peace: Glimpses of the Holy Land,” Oct. 14-22 at LaRoche College.

* * * * *In the Diocese of Erie, Bishop

Donald W. Trautman announced the following appointments:

• Rev. Michael P. Ferrick, S’97, was appointed pastor of Queen of the World Parish, St. Marys, for a term of six years, effective August 3.

• Rev. James A. Reardon, S’00, appointed parochial vicar of Saint Agatha Parish, Meadville, and its mission of Saint Bernadette, Saegertown, for three years, effective August 1.

• Father Frank E. Ziemkiewicz, O.S.B., S’84, will resume the pastorate of Saint Mary Parish, St. Marys, after completing required military service, on August 2. Father Eric T. Vogt, O.S.B., P’68, C’73, S’77, concluded his term as administrator. Father Chrysostom V. Schlimm, O.S.B., P’52, C’57, S’61, has returned to Saint Vincent Archabbey after serving at St. Mary Parish for several months.

• Rev. Matthew J. Kujawinski, S’03, reappointed parochial vicar of Our Lady of Peace Parish, Erie, for a three-year term, effective July 1.

* * * * *Rev. James A. Caldwell, Jr., S’02, of the

Diocese of Tulsa, has been named associate pastor of Saint John Church, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, effective August 7. He is formerly associate pastor of Christ the King Church in Tulsa. He will continue to serve Saint John Church in Pawnee and also will continue as chaplain to the Knights of Columbus and to Family Life programs Rachel’s Vineyard and Retrouvaille.

* * * * *Other new assignments for the recently

ordained include: Rev. H. Alejandro Ayala, parochial vicar, Sacred Heart Church, Salisbury, N.C.; Rev. Charles E. McGinnis, Jr., associate pastor, Immaculate Conception Parish, Clarksburg, WV; Rev. Marion Charboneau, O.S.B., St. Benedict’s Abbey, Atchison, Kansas; Rev. Mark Gallipeau, Saint Francis Xavier Parish, Parkersburg, WV; Rev. Maurus Mount, O.S.B., Saint Vincent Archabbey; Rev. Mark Purcell, O.S.B., Mary, Mother of the Church Abbey, Richmond.


Late Mayor

the funeral mass at Saint Paul Cathedral, Oakland, celebrated by Archbishop Donald Wuerl of Washington.

Terry O’Connor offered a poignant homily in the same church where he was ordained in 2001.

“This is truly a day that we have heavy hearts in the city of Pittsburgh. This is certainly a great loss for us all,” said O’Connor. His father’s deep faith and talents never got in the way of his view of himself as an everyday Pittsburgher. “It was that kind of attitude and that kind of humility that allowed my dad to be truly a man of the people.”

“Our faith in the Resurrection tells us that his death wasn’t the end of the story,” Father O’Connor said. “This day is filled with a tremendous amount of hope as well. Hope in God’s divine and loving and mysterious plan for my dad and for all of us.... my dad lived an extraordinary life with Jesus Christ at the center.”



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