Calling, commitment, and union without confusion … Ask a Marianist
Father Paul Vieson, S.M. ’62, director of the Marianist Archives, brings to his answers the learning of a centuries-old heritage and the experience of half a century as a Marianist.
Why did you choose to become a Marianist? —Teri Dickison, Pleasant Hill, Ohio
Before I discovered girls, I found the Dominicans to be an interesting religious order; I liked their habits. Then, I went to Purcell Marian High School in Cincinnati and met the Marianists, who took a personal interest in the skinny kid with the big glasses who was hopeless in gym class but liked the library. My Marianist teachers were dynamic classroom presences, cultured and devoted. The Dominicans never had a chance after that.
Over the years, what moments have you encountered that confirmed your calling? —Susan Terbay, Dayton
When we are at peace with what we are and do, even if it is not spectacular, we know we are in the right place and engaged in the right life. I think that growing sense of peace confirmed me again and again over the years even when I had some second thoughts. There were few special graced moments and certainly no apparitions that said, “This is it!”
Who first introduced you to libraries and how? —Jane Dunwoodie, Dayton
My father took me to the public library in Cincinnati where I grew up. Dad allowed me to select books from the “grown-up” section where I usually chose histories and biographies. My family encouraged me to read. “Give Paul a book and that’s the last you will hear of him all day,” was a favorite family saying.
What instruction from the Marianist founders do you think is especially relevant for lay people today? —Fran Rice ’76, West Milton, Ohio
The necessity of building Catholic community that embraces many vocations: marriage; single state; consecrated religious; priests — each vocation bound to the others in a common Marian consecration as “a union without confusion” and an example to the church as a whole. When the Marianist family does that, we will, by God’s good grace, convert the world.
Is there a particular writer that you would recommend that others read for spiritual formation? —Carole Wiltsee, Kettering, Ohio
The late Father Emil Neubert, S.M., writings on Mary; any of the publications of the North American Center for Marianist Studies are good introductions to Marianist spirituality and heritage and always enriching.
UD is welcoming to persons of all faiths. What Marianist traditions most resonate with non-Catholics? —Elizabeth Moore Jacobs, Tipp City, Ohio
The most impressive Marianist and UD characteristic I hear repeated over and over is how welcoming we are. Parents have observed that the campus is so very friendly. Alumni remember the close friendships and community they developed during their UD career and that still endure. Hospitality is a very Marian virtue; and Marianist communities, both religious and lay, cultivate that virtue.
Did you ever think about leaving the Society of Mary? —Terri Lauer, Clayton, Ohio
Commitment is made stronger when it is challenged. I have been challenged several times in 53 years as a Marianist: by occasional difficult community assignments; attractions to the joys of marriage; and even the moment of doubt that it was all worth it. But, fraternal support and prayer and a determination to be faithful, to persevere and not walk away from a challenge, brought me through. If I had to do it all over again, I would.
How has your devotion to Mary impacted your ministry both as a priest and an archivist? What is your favorite prayer? —Susan Terbay, Dayton
Many Marian virtues have helped to shape my life as a Marianist religious and a Marianist priest. Faith, prayer, openness to others may well be stronger in my life because of my consecration to Mary — not my doing but the work of grace. Mary’s son and His mother do surprise us with what they can make of poor material. Apart from the Lord’s Prayer and the Hail Mary, I have a fondness for this one, especially when I am anxious:
Mary, dearest Mother,
You can’t say you can’t.
You won’t say you won’t.
So, you will, won’t you,
Dearest Mother!
For our next issue, ask your question of Brother Bernard Ploeger, S.M. ’71, president of Chaminade University. Email your question to magazine@udayton.edu.
Ask a Marianist
Readers had more questions for Carol Ramey ’68, director of the North American Center for Marianist Studies, than we had space in the Big Questions section of the Autumn 2012 issue of University of Dayton Magazine. Here are additional questions with her answers:
What do you understand by your commitment as a member of a Marianist lay community? What difference does it make in your life? Is there anything special about your way of being Catholic as a lay Marianist? —David Fleming, S.M., Dayton, Ohio
My Catholic faith is the foundation of my Marianist commitment, and my Marianist commitment deepens my Catholic faith. Parish life is one component of my quest for God and meaning. Marianist spirituality fulfills a longing in me for an experience where the Word of God is broken open through conversation among peers; where prayer is creative and varied; where trust for deep faith sharing builds among members; where we read the Scripture and the newspaper together, where we ponder and plan activity against the injustices of the world and the church.
The Marianist style of community is prophetic, I think, to the larger church — offering the Marian dimensions of church as complement to the Petrine and the Pauline traditions. Had I not met the Marianists, I wouldn’t have the hope I have for the church because I’ve wouldn’t have witnessed what it could be.
How/when did the Marianist charism capture your imagination? What aspect of Marianist charism do you feel is most needed in the world today and why? What have been the benefits and challenges of lay people being more integral in Marianist leadership around the world? —Crystal Sullivan, Kettering, Ohio
I was drawn to the Marianists at UD in the early ‘60s. I was captivated by the congruence between the Marianist lay community on campus and the documents coming out of Vatican II. The opportunity to change the church and world was electricity for we who were on the threshold of being in the world as contributing adults. I was intrigued by how Marianists spoke of Mary — she was admired as much for her courage and risk taking as she was for her humility and receptivity.
For me, the elements of the charism are a package deal. Each of the five pillars — faith, community, inclusivity, Mary, and mission — is critical for our times. But, community is probably at the center right now — both church and culture struggle with bringing people to a sense of deep purpose and belonging, handling complexities and limits, and living in peace and justice within local and global diversity. Community is both a destination from which to draw strength for the mission and a vehicle by which contemporary approaches to ministry and concepts for social structures for equality can be created.
Lay leadership is at the roots of Marianist life. Blessed Chaminade trusted the capacities of lay to promote zeal, education and practical resources for the early communities, which operated quite well for 16 years before the Marianist religious were founded. The purpose of the orders was to support the growth of the communities, not lead them.
Today, frankly, the most evident benefit is that most of the ministries are continuing despite the fewer numbers of professed Marianists available for leading the apostolic works — dedicated and professionally prepared lay individuals are insuring this for the future.
The challenges are around integrating Marianist spirit into all aspects of institutions’ operations — for example, most Marianist board by-laws require the participation of vowed religious on the boards — this taxes leadership right now. Ongoing educational and formational efforts to support leaders in mission integration need funding and qualified resource people.
How has your position at NACMS evolved over the years? What is the most important function that NACMS serves? —Celine O’Neill, Kettering, Ohio
The reason we exist has stayed the same — we continue to see our core mission as education in Marianist history, spirituality and apostolic approaches.
What have changed are the methods of delivery and our audience. Staff and I have had some steep learning curves — virtual learning, electronic publications, new technologies and avenues for networking, how to meet the interest in information and enrichment among an increasing diverse audience, providing scholarship in Marianist studies and current interpretations of the founders’ thoughts, and staying up-to-date on the Marianists around the world. Our audiences now are a mix of lay and religious, young and old, Catholic and those from other faith traditions.
Doing all this in a cost-containing manner has become more challenging. Serving a growing number of people is gratifying. And we know we need staff members who grew up with or have learned about the newest, latest, electronic devices and the “cloud.”
You have committed a great deal of your life to becoming an expert in Marianist history, traditions, and values. How has Marianist culture influenced your own life as a lay person. —Marge Cavanaugh ’67, Arlington, Va.
The learning and habits go back and forth between my life and work. The culture of the workplace reinforces how I pray, how I apply my talents, how I try to foster good relationships with friends and family and how I strive to put “first things first.” The experiences of lay community, family life and sense of mission and ministry as a lay person help me talk and write about the charism and its manifestations in terms that most people can understand and live out.
In many ways my work has enhanced my personal life choice to be a lay person. In short, my Marianist background assures me that doing ordinary things during ordinary days can be holy.
The people and resources to which I have access through my work help me understand and follow through on the responsibilities that accompany saying “yes” to the universal call to holiness. The Marianist silences and virtues really help keep me on track.
I often try to bring the joys and struggles of my lay life experiences to how I interpret things Marianist in my work. Being a woman, wife, mother and grandmother often provides me with stories and images that I use to relate Marianist history, traditions and values.
How did your time at UD lead you to your present role at the North American Center for Marianist Studies? Do you have interaction with present UD students that are as involved with the Marianist family as you were when you were a student? How is their involvement similar to yours when you were a student? How is it different? —Ed Brink ’82, S.M., St. Louis
My Marianist education at the UD took place in and outside the classroom. My history and political science majors prepared me in the timeframe of the Marianist founders and with an understanding of how change happens in a society. Theology and philosophy exposed me to the traditions of the church as well as the vast changes on the horizon. My extracurricular activities were primarily situated within the Sodality. Several SMs accompanied us and taught us about things Marianist. I left UD primed for the work ahead. I left UD committed to forming Sodality-like communities wherever life took me. I continued to learn from mentors. With SMs, I co-presented yearly seminars for S.M. and F.M.I. novices on Marianist lay life. In 1988, a Marianist brother asked me to consider working at NACMS as an editor. I said “yes!” Six years later, I became director.
I have some contact with involved students through programs for them on campus. I see great similarities between current UD students and my cohort. My formation was structured a bit differently than the present programs for students — in a large group, we heard talks and held discussions in a small building called “The Shack.” Small groupings around specific ministries met to plan good works, but we had the young Brother Ray Fitz nearby who was challenging us around systemic change to society!
The Marianist student communities are reminiscent of off-campus houses that many of us chose to live in together to support the faith journey. The cadre of faculty and staff who work with the students now in both formational and mission includes more lay folks, as most of our mentors where S.M. on the faculty and the F.M.I. who worked in the women’s dorm.
And like my experience of leaving UD behind, most graduates today must create communities in which to continue their Marianist interests. Of course, we didn’t have Skype; we had to make do with newsletters!
The following are the questions and answers — some in a longer form — that appeared in the Autumn 2012 issue of University of Dayton Magazine.
I’ve heard it said that the Marianist charism is a gift for both the church and the world. Can you explain what that means? —Tony Garascia, South Bend, Ind.
Scripture tells us “The gift you have received, give as gift.” (Mt 10: 8-19) Blessed Chaminade did just that — he shared the elements of the charism by providing a complex of methods designed to bring ordinary people together to sustain them in a deep faith life, to instill in them a hopeful disposition toward the world, and to inspire in them a determination to work with zeal for whatever would address the needs of the times.
As the church is for the world and operates within the world, the benefits of this gift extend into the culture.
The Marianist approach for transformation of church and culture continues to blend living within a faith-based community with a mission to serve the world, pursuing virtue in ways that equip us to interact with the world as catalysts for positive change, and a style of organization that brings diverse voices to important conversations. And, the gift gives us a woman, Mary, who prods the church and the world to scatter the proud, to give the hungry good things, and to raise up the lowly.
As in Chaminade’s situation, we need both laity and religious to bring his vision to life. Chaminade taught that through our common baptism, lay and religious have equal rights to and responsibilities around giving the gift we have been given.
Would you briefly compare and contrast the Marianist and Jesuit orders and what they offer to students and to the world? —Doug Davidoff, Arlington, Mass.
My study over the years has been focused almost exclusively on Marianist spirit and education. My knowledge of the Jesuit approach to life and education is very limited. However, the fact that both spring from Catholic tradition creates a common foundation from which the Holy Spirit offers the gifts of the Jesuit and Marianist charisms.
Both work to build the Reign of God through fidelity to the Word and responsiveness to those in need. The Gospel is proclaimed and strong faith is developed in ways central to all their ministerial works. Sodalities — what we call “lay communities” were part of both. The two orders sponsor educational institutions which integrate academic programs with living life as a whole person — one who is supported and challenged in the physical, intellectual, moral, social and creative aspects of life in a global reality. Students in Catholic schools usually thrive because all elements of the human experience are incorporated in a faith based environment. Each charism, though, offers the opportunity to learn about the Gospel and life by stressing particular elements of the Jesus’ teachings.
Marianists emphasize formation in faith and family spirit (community and equality within diversity). Additionally, they provide a culture in which one finds quality, integral learning; education for service, justice, and peace; and a facility to adapt and change as needed. All five characteristics — inspired by the Spirit — give witness through a focus and intensity throughout the school that will brings everyone more deeply into the Christ life. Marianists call all this “Mary’s Mission” — as she bore Christ into the world and taught him, she teaches us how to form Christ within ourselves and others and bear Christ into all times, places, and circumstances.
Do you think Chaminade was a good delegator of authority and, if so, what might we learn from him? —Joseph Stefanelli ’43, S.M., Cupertino, Calif.
Yes, I do. His design and implementation of the Three Offices from the first days of the Bordeaux Sodality and his inclusion of this method of organization into the Constitutions of the FMI and SM gives clear indication that he was a great delegator. As I understand delegation, it is meant to distribute the workload, to prepare people for more responsibility and leadership and to draw out the various gifts of all those involved in an enterprise. It allows for distinct perspectives to be honored and discussed. Through the deliberation, the best of the practical ideas and spiritual wisdom can surface and be weighed in light of a common good. Chaminade’s Offices do all of that and more.
He had confidence in persons who, like Adèle and many members of the sodalities, were much younger than he. He relied as persons such as Marie Thérèse, to whom he entrusted important work, even though she did not have the background he did. Chaminade was aware of most of what was going on, but he did not seem to micro manage the situations.
What can we learn? I hope that leaders learn that delegation is part and parcel of leading, but in ways that serve both the community or organization and the individual. Chaminade really tried to avoid throwing people into the deep end of the lake. From him, we can learn that mentoring and developmental experiences, good spiritual guidance, formation in virtue and provision of practical skills must always be available. And most importantly, we have to learn how to foster a common sense of the mission. Chaminade always reminded those to whom he delegated responsibilities that their work was the work of Mary.
The Marianist finds special inspiration in the actions of a frightened, young woman who chooses to say, “Yes.” Today’s young women and men are bombarded with a multitude of choices — career, personal, social, political and technological. How do Mary and the tradition of the Marianist speak to these young men and women today? How can the Marianist charism serve as a guiding source in the lives of all people, young and old? —Kevin Wisniewski ’94, Centerville, Ohio
I believe the guiding source for today’s young people in the midst of frightening uncertainty can still be found in inspirations from Mary. The story of the Annunciation deserves serious meditation and reflection. Here are a few principles I’ve been taught by Marianists.
First, get used to living with ambiguity. I don’t mean to sound flip — life just will often present multiple options and unexpected changes. I reflect on the very ambiguous situation Mary was in with the Angel’s visit, and I see her peacefulness at the conclusion of the encounter. So, I will myself not to panic. I will myself to avoid the option that offers immediate relief from the anxiety. It was hard when I was young; it is still hard
Secondly, learn the art of pondering. I would often fall into the routine of weighing risks and benefits, which gives good information, but pondering is more about listening for the voice of the Spirit. I say the phrase, “Mary pondered these things in her heart.” Her heart — not her mind. As Chaminade counseled, I try to listen “to the attitudes of the heart.”
Trust in God is the third aspect of letting Mary influence us. Mary, after asking a simple question — “How can this be?” and after listening to a pretty unbelievable answer from the Angel, says “Let it be done according to Thy Word.” At the start of the visit from the Angel she is troubled. At the end of the visit, her destiny is defined, without knowing what that really means. She just states an act of faith.
Mary’s trust in God had to be challenged by many episodes in her Son’s life, especially as she stood at the foot of the cross. Did the ambiguity go away? We don’t know except that the frequent reference to pondering infers it was still a factor in her faith life. Accepting ambiguity and learning to ponder as Mary did, I think, will bring us to the kind of trust she had.
In your best imagination, what do you see as the future of the Marianist Family and its strong growth over the last few years? —Michael O’Grady ’69, S.M., San Antonio
My vision of the future is sometimes grandiose — I imagine the church and its hierarchy taking charism more seriously and drawing upon the gifts of each to renew and refresh what some say is an institution in trouble. Imagine lay people, well steeped in theology and living in the light of the Gospel, working alongside clergy and religious from parishes up to the Vatican offices. Imagine if the church developed a network of small communities dedicated to strong internal dynamics where faith, hope and compassion radiated out as a light on the mountain top. Imagine the same communities with robust activity for the improvement of quality of life from local neighborhoods to the scope of the planet. Imagine people flocking to these communities to see how God has worked such miracles! Now that would be the “spectacle” that Chaminade often spoke about.
I do keep a smaller version of that vision in my heart. My imagination and my vision for the future are fueled by hope — the virtue that helps us trust in movement from what is “not yet” to “ what can be.” My hope stays alive from the experience of being with young adults who are on fire” with Marianist spirit and who are engaging in service projects for social change. My hope comes from the commitment of long-time members in lay communities, from the spirit alive and well in Marianist schools, retreat centers, and parishes, from the faithfulness of communities and affiliate groups whose members have lived to an old age and who are going to stop meeting only because of increasing health issues and transportation problems.
How can the imagined scenario become real? Well, as you mentioned there is a spike in the growth of communities of young people. Young adults throughout the world are engaged in Marianist formation programs and starting to create new communities in our tradition.
I’ll admit to some gloom and doom moments. Too many of my fellow travelers in life have left the church over the scandals, rigidity of what is defined as moral truth, and its lack of inclusion of lay people in all the ministries of the church. My vision on some days includes all these folks coming home.
A final part of the my vision is related to vocations to religious life and the priesthood. I envision men and women who pursue this type of vocation because the world desperately needs their witness of unconditional love, simplicity in all things, and listening above all the chatter for the voice of God.
For our next issue, ask your question of Father Paul Vieson, S.M., ’62 director of the Marianist Archives. Email your question to magazine@udayton.edu.
Responsibility, justice and glimmers of grace … Ask a Marianist
Readers had more questions for Father Marty Solma, S.M. ’71, provincial of the Marianist Province of the United States, than we had space in the Big Questions section of the Summer 2012 issue of University of Dayton Magazine. Here are additional questions with answers from Father Solma:
How do you see your role in ensuring that Marianist college faculty convey respect for human life and the teaching authority of the Church in ethics and philosophy classes and in other situations, even where teachers and students may not be Catholic? —Marcia Schiele, Solon, Ohio, parent of four UD students
The question you ask is an especially important one for us these days. The University of Dayton, by virtue of its Catholic character and Marianist educational tradition, must endorse and publicly support the Catholic doctrinal and ethical teaching of the magisterium. The office of the vice president for mission and rector is more formally charged with overseeing compliance, along with the ultimate responsibility vested in the president and the board of trustees, of which I am a member. The board itself has two supervisory committees, one dealing with the mission and identity of the university and the other with the ethics involved with university research. We stay in close contact with the archbishop of Cincinnati to ensure his support and endorsement. When issues arise, we address them from our Catholic and Marianist commitment. This is of particular importance around the many life issues, including abortion, euthanasia, the death penalty, and respect for human life from conception until natural death.
When you are dark, when you are weary, when hope seems silly and greed and violence the coin of the realm, where do you go to be restored, resurrected, refreshed? What brings you back up to joy and defiant courage? —Brian Doyle, Editor, Portland Magazine
I rarely feel dark and weary. Frustrated, sad, discouraged — yes, at times. But that is part and parcel of doing anything worthwhile. I like people and, as Anne Frank said in her diary, “Despite everything, I still believe that people are basically good.” That doesn’t discount weakness, stupidity or sinfulness; but a deep respect for each person is what sustains a lot of my day-to-day activity. On a deeper level, if we take the resurrection seriously, the redemption has already happened and the Spirit has been given. The theological task today is to become what we already are through the mystery of Jesus’ death and resurrection. That’s Karl Rahner, by the way. That’s the core of my life, something that doesn’t easily give way to “dark and weary.”
The greatest female Catholic writer in American history: Flannery O’Connor or Annie Dillard? —Brian Doyle, Editor, Portland Magazine
I’m less familiar with the work of Annie Dillard although I’ve liked what I’ve read of her. I really like Flannery O’Connor: an honest, gutsy, determined believer and Christian.
What do you consider to be the most challenging and rewarding aspect of your present position? —Father Norbert Burns, S.M. ’45, Dayton
The Society of Mary in the United States is clearly getting older and more lean. At the same time, we have a number of very fine young men joining our mission and committing themselves by vow to the charism of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. But, we have to be smart and have to make choices that promote both our religious life and our mission for the future. We cannot do things the way we did them even 40 years ago. But, this is the time and place in which the Lord has called us to fidelity and to faithful service.
As a member of the board of trustees, what gives you the most hope in terms of UD’s Catholic and Marianist mission and identity? What are the challenges from your perspective? —Joan Wagner, Dayton
At one time, professed members of the Society of Mary were numerous on the campus of UD, serving in administrative post and teaching in classrooms. The Catholic and Marianist identity was embodied in these men. The situation today is much different. Professed Marianists are fewer and older. But, this is not something to be discouraged about. When Father Chaminade returned to France from his exile in Saragossa, Spain, after the initial years of the French Revolution, he found a Church and society that was devastated. He set about rebuilding the Christian faith and the Church by forming communities of lay people who progressively grew in their faith and commitment. These “sodalities” were the fertile ground out of which grew the Marianist Sisters in 1816 and the Society of Mary in 1817. Father Chaminade was hailed as the “Apostle of the Laity” when he was beatified in 2000 by Blessed John Paul II. We continue his tradition of partnering with lay members of the Marianist Family and with other lay collaborators. Together, we have been entrusted with the Marianist charism and this partnering will continue to keep alive the Marianist spirit at the University of Dayton. Of special note is the presence of the Marianist Educational Associates (MEA) who have taken on a focused and committed role in promoting and sustaining the Marianist spirit at UD. The same is true at the two other Marianist-sponsored universities. We see this as a harkening back to our original foundation and to the original initiative of Blessed Chaminade. We do this together as a Marianist Family. This is a change of perspective for us, but one consistent with our charism and tradition.
Our Marianist charism is said to be both a gift and a task. What are the life-giving gift and the responsibility of the charism for you? —Maureen O’Rourke ’05, Dayton
For Blessed Chaminade, the place of Mary in the history of redemption was of primary importance. She was the channel through which the Word of God entered human history. As presented by St. John in his Gospel, she is the woman who stands at the foot of the cross and becomes the Mother of all the disciples of Jesus, his brothers and sisters, sharing the same mother. Pondering Mary’s mission was central to the life and ministry of Chaminade. As sharers in this charism, we need to do the same: like the Beloved Disciples, to take Mary into our lives and, with her, to foster the Christ-life in others. Understanding this, living it, sharing it is what Marianists do, whether religious or lay.
Please give us an update on the school in Kenya. —Maureen McGrail ’67, East Lansing, Mich.
Our Lady of Nazareth Primary School in the Mukuru slums of Nairobi just celebrated its 20th anniversary at the end of February. Begun by the Sisters of Mercy in 1992 to offer some basic math and language skills to slum children, the school has been administered by the Society of Mary since 1997. This year, it has an enrollment of 2,000 students and placed No. 5 in the district in the recent national exams. Not bad for a slum school! Through the kindness of donors in the UK and in Dayton, every child in the school now gets a hot breakfast of “uji” every morning, a porridge made from high-nutrient flour. Providing a good breakfast (and lunch) every day to 2,000 children in the middle of the slums is no small achievement. The Kenyan Marianists, under the leadership of Brother Chola Mulenga and Brother Joseph Maricky Okoth, continue providing a quality Marianist education to these children.
The following are the questions and answers — some in a longer form — that appeared in the Summer 2012 issue of University of Dayton Magazine.
A provincial seems like an admirable but often rather thankless task; so much of your work must not provide much instant gratification, and to even see results must often be the measurement of years. What are the subtle gentle rewards and kicks of being provincial? And I don’t mean the Jaguar and the superb wines. —Brian Doyle, Editor, Portland Magazine
Right, try a Ford Taurus and Crane Lake wine! Reinhold Niebuhr said that nothing of lasting value can be accomplished in a single lifetime, so we live with faith and hope. Of course, parents also know this in raising their children, and teachers in educating them. It’s the same with this responsibility: walking with people, leading, trying to make wise decisions for the future, relying on the help and insight of others. There are so many glimmers of grace in this job: Brothers who witness extraordinary generosity and self-sacrifice; experiences of forgiveness; goals reached and differences made; working with some incredibly good people on my Council and on the boards of the three Marianist-sponsored universities; walking with Brothers during their final journey to God. I have been deeply touched by the confidence that Brothers have placed in me and by their expressions of gratitude and support. Much better, to my mind, than a Jaguar or superb wines.
What message do you wish to give to the thousands of UD alumni? —Father Norbert Burns, S.M. ’45, Dayton
I had decided to attend UD even before I joined the Society of Mary in 1966. What a marvelous place! Under the really fine leadership of Brother Ray Fitz, now of Dr. Dan Curran, the school has grown to national prominence, increasing its offerings and strengthening its academic program. But, it’s the “feel” of the campus that is most enduring. Our founder, Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, spoke about “family spirit” and that is very much in evidence on the campus and in the interactions of students, faculty, staff and administrators. This is much more than a “feel good” environment. It is rooted in our Catholic faith, in the Marianist charism and the Marianist characteristics of education, and in the person of Mary who stands at the very center of our Marianist life. She is the woman who formed Jesus, and she is the woman who continues to form us in His likeness. UD is a special place. I am also highly impressed that the very same sense is evidenced at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio and at Chaminade University in Honolulu, both sister schools to UD and sponsored by the Society of Mary.
There has been a lot of talk in the political news about Social Justice lately. What is the definition of Social Justice to a Marianist and how does it fit into the Marianist mission? —Jerry Walsh ’87, Alexandria, Va.
Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching is the notion that justice is not just an individual concern but a social one as well. We are not simply focused on the good of the individual but on the common good: What makes for human flourishing and development for every human person? Our vision must include both fair wages and humane working conditions for the men and women who care for the grounds at UD but also the promotion of respect for and among students and faculty, part and parcel of the “Call to Community” initiative. As well, it means that we are committed to respect for the environment and challenging students to live in such a way that this becomes a lived value for them. It means providing opportunities for students to serve in Appalachia with University of Dayton Summer Appalachia Program, as engineers in the ETHOS [Engineers in Technical Humanitarian Opportunities of Service-learning] program, as interns with the Fitz Center. It means keeping a wide perspective on the world, on issues of peace and justice and on the policies and laws that either promote or hinder a world that is more peaceful and just. These are the issues that must form a big part of the Common Academic Program, imbuing students with a deep sense of their Catholic tradition and their responsibility for the world with which God has entrusted us. Marianist education is holistic.
Do the Marianists, and does the University, have a responsibility to share with the Church, bishops, clergy, religious and lay people, their honest assessment of how to make Christ present to all people in this time and this place? Or is our responsibility simply to communicate to lay Catholics and the public what the pope and the bishops present as essential Catholic teaching? In short do we or do we not share responsibility for the current life and future prospects of the Church in the United States? — David O’Brien, O’Brien recently completed a three-year term as University Professor of Faith and Culture.
Grounded in the teaching of the Second Vatican Council, Lumen Gentium and its “Universal Call to Holiness,” we are all called to a vibrant living of the Christian life and to a sharing in the building up of the Body of Christ. That is our pledge and our responsibility by baptism. But, as St. Paul says, each part of the body must contribute what it can. There are roles of teaching and leading, but there are also prophets, preachers, healers, those who care of the needy, and many other roles of service. In the best Marianist tradition, we build a sense of community where all are invited to share their gifts for the benefit of the whole. The university community has a special place in all of this. It is the arena where faith and culture meet, where science and theology together seek for truth, where the Catholic faith forms the bedrock for the education of the whole person and touches every part of the university culture. Magisterial teaching is important and has its place, obviously. But that teaching needs to be understood, explored and appropriated in a human and deeply religious manner. The university is a place where the deepest human questions can be met by the wisdom that comes from the Catholic tradition.
Will the Society of Mary continue sponsorship of high schools in the future and, if so, how will the order keep the Marianist charism alive with no or very few vowed Marianists staffing the schools? —Myron Achbach ’58, Dayton
The province is in the process of developing a sponsorship model for all of these schools. Rather than simply withdrawing from them or closing them, is there a way to maintain a Marianist spirit and ethos in the high schools and middle schools? We think so. A sponsorship relationship would entail certain benefits and obligations on the part of these institutions in the Marianist educational tradition. On our side, we need to determine what is required in order to put the name “Marianist” on a school: in spirit, in governance, in commitment. It will require the Marianist Province of the USA to devote considerable time and resources to the process of “formation,” sharing with lay partners the meaning and dynamism of the Marianist charism. We have recently initiated an Office of Formation for Mission that will serve these Province needs. This, along with whatever Office of Sponsorship we eventually establish, will hopefully ensure the continuance of the Marianist spirit in schools for a long time to come. Far from a diminishment, this new way of our doing ministry can extend the Marianist influence far beyond what we alone can do today.
For our autumn issue, ask CAROL RAMEY ’68, director of the North American Center for Marianist Studies, about what the Marianist founders offer today’s world, about Mary as inspiration and role model, about community, about what Marianists bring to the table today.
EMAIL YOUR QUESTION TO MAGAZINE@UDAYTON.EDU.
Far-traveled students and pure joy nearby … Ask a Marianist
A Marianist Educational Associate since 2011, Peg Mount has been assisting the students, faculty and staff of engineering technology for more than 20 years. That includes, since 2006, cohorts of students and faculty from Shanghai Normal University in China.
What was your impression when you saw the first cohort of Chinese students from Shanghai Normal University?
—Paul Xu ’07, Shanghai, China
I admired the students for taking a risk in coming to UD to take classes. I know it was difficult for them to be 7,000 miles away from home and their families and to take courses not taught in Chinese.
In the past couple years, you have helped a lot of Shanghai Normal students. Have you ever thought about visiting Shanghai? —Yvonne Zhou ’07, Cincinnati
I would love to go to Shanghai. There are so many students who are there, faculty who are there who I want to see. I enjoyed getting to know them and learning about their culture, and they gave me new insights by seeing Dayton through their eyes.
How do you make use of the Marianist charism in your daily dealings with students, particularly those who might be a bit challenging to deal with? —Margaret Pinnell ’88, UD assistant dean
There was a student who did not want to hear “no,” and “no” was the only answer I had for him. So I’m standing, and he’s getting pushy and coming into my space. I thought, he’s a freshman, and I’m going to have him for the next four years. And I was thinking about the Marianist charisms of Mary and inclusivity. I decided that I could make his life miserable every time he came in this office or I could think of him as a child of God and someone who deserves my respect. The irony is that he became one of my student workers, and we became good friends. But it could have gone the other way. Every day, admin assistants hear “I need, I want, I gotta have” from students, faculty and technicians. Everybody has to make a conscious decision every day about what we do.
How has your MEA experience impacted your life professionally and personally? —Randy Groesbeck, UD administrator
I have met wonderful people not only from UD but also from San Antonio and Hawaii. I believe in the Marianists and their mission. They see the world is not black and white — there are so many gray areas, and they have compassion and have shown me how to be nonjudgmental. I’m always open to listening. We all have burdens to bear, but when you share, you begin to heal.
What is the happiest thing for you? —Roro Chen ’08, Shanghai, China
My granddaughters. I went through a bad divorce, and I never thought I’d love like that again. But it was instantaneous, pure joy when my son first handed me Lauren. Lauren is now 5, Jocelyn, just over 1 year. I just light up when I see them. It’s the next generation, and we see hope when we look in their faces, that they can make it a better world.
What is the Lebanon Outreach Program headed by engineering school dean Tony Saliba? —Brother John Samaha, S.M. ’52, Cupertino, Calif.
When Tony and Joseph Saliba came to the University of Dayton, they found not only a refuge from the civil war in their native homeland (1975-1990) but also a community where they and many other Lebanese could prosper socially, economically and culturally. Years later, when President Dan Curran and Provost Joe Saliba visited Lebanon, they were told by both the president of the country and the head of the Maronite Catholic Church that UD’s Lebanese students should be encouraged to return and rebuild the country. Tony and Joe have started the Lebanon Outreach Program that supports, through donated money, students from Lebanon to come to the University of Dayton and then return home to be strong leaders providing innovation, commitment and service. I think this program is one of the many examples of how the Marianist spirit continues to flow from one generation to the next.
What do you enjoy most about being at UD? —Becky Blust ’87, UD professor
I work with a very special group of people in technology. The current faculty, I’ve watched their kids grow up from babies. I know who likes jelly beans and who likes Snickers. We have an end-of-
semester pizza party that brings all of our full-time and part-time faculty and retirees together. When I first started, the retirees made me part of their group. I have played laser tag with them, and we just had our third annual Robert Burns night, where engineers, mathematicians and their spouses share poems. My 60th birthday is coming up, and I’m learning from the best how to celebrate birthdays and
celebrate life.
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For our next issue ask Father Marty Solma, S.M. ’71, provincial for the Marianist Province of the United States and a Cleveland native. He previously served in eastern Africa for 25 years. EMAIL YOUR QUESTION TO MAGAZINE@UDAYTON.EDU.
Holy days, Mother Mary and many blessings … Ask a Marianist
Father Jim Fitz, S.M. ’68 is vice president for mission and University rector. “I have been encouraged by the breadth of the interest across campus in Blessed William Joseph Chaminade,” says Fitz, whose office is coordinating UD’s Chaminade Year celebration, which runs through January. Celebration details are at www.udayton.edu/rector/chaminade250.
It was very sad recently to read that the Marianists had left San Francisco after 125 years. At which school in the U.S. is found the oldest Marianist presence? —Ernest Avellar ’49, Hayward, Calif.
University of Dayton is the oldest. The school opened in 1850 and it evolved into UD; UD had a high school section that moved to Chaminade High School, which is now Chaminade Julienne. We still sponsor Archbishop Riordan High School in San Francisco; there are no longer any Marianist religious, but we still promote the Marianist charism there. We withdrew because we have fewer religious and we just cannot be present in all the places we were before. Also, we respond and adapt to change, so we have moved into new ministries based on the gifts of our members, such as Brother Bob Donovan, a medical doctor working with the homeless in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.
Why isn’t Good Friday a holy day of obligation? —Kathy Waldron ’80, Canal Fulton, Ohio
A holy day of obligation is a required day to attend the celebration of the Eucharist, and Good Friday is the one day during the liturgical year when the church does not celebrate the Eucharist.
Does UD still have a retreat program called the CARE Weekend? —Mary Puleo Kuenzig ’80, Mason, Ohio
There’s not a CARE retreat anymore. Adaptation and change are characteristics of Marianist education, so the retreat program has changed. There is still a very strong retreat program, but the forms have evolved based on the interests of students, for example the More 2 Life retreat and the Metanoia retreat. To get in touch with former participants, you can look up their names through the online alumni network at www.udayton.edu/alumni.
When I have missed our sons — three have attended UD — I know Mother Mary is there to watch over them. Who created the wonderful icon, which is on several buildings? —Lisa Brackmann, Cincinnati
Brother Gary Marcinowski created the original design, and Brother Brian Zampier later turned it into a greeting card. The illuminated image of Mary and child can be seen on Miriam Hall and College Park Center.
What advice do you give to alumni and students for staying in touch with our beloved Marianist family after they have left UD? —Emily Klein McFadden ’09, Cleveland
It depends on where a person lives. At www.marianist.com is a directory of Marianist lay communities and religious communities (the Society of Mary and the Marianist sisters). You can also connect to FamilyOnline and see the Marianist lay communities map (www.marianist.com/?page_id=1198). Of course, you can always contact our office at 937-229-2899 to connect with UD Marianists.
I have a hard time explaining what it means to be a Marianist. Can you give me an “elevator speech”? —Clare Roccaforte ’02, Chicago
A Marianist is a disciple of Jesus Christ, the son of God become the son of Mary for the salvation of all. Mary, for us, is a model disciple because she heard the word of God and she said yes to it. Her yes allowed the word of God to be incarnated in the world. So we as Marianist religious imitate her yes to the word of God and incarnate it in the world through community and mission. In community, we try to live the Gospel values so people can see them. Mission is outreach to build the kingdom of God in the world based on what the needs of the time are. That’s an elevator speech depending on how many floors — we could go longer.
How do you reconcile good fortune and God’s many blessings with the pain and suffering of so many innocent people? —George Kooluris ’66, Bronxville, N.Y.
That’s one of the theological questions for the times. Terry Tilley, who was our former religious studies chair, wrote a whole book on it: The Evils of Theodicy. Some of the suffering in our world can be attributed to the choices people make. God loves us but God leaves us free, so people make choices that are not the choices that even God would want us to make. But I do not have a good answer for every illness or natural catastrophe, except to do what Mary did and stand with people who are suffering. Like Mary, I can be compassionate and caring and do what I can to alleviate suffering.
For our spring issue ask Peg Mount, a Marianist Educational Associate, parent of two UD alumni and longtime administrative assistant in the department of engineering technology; she has worked at UD 21 years. Email your question to magazine@udayton.edu.
Stuart Hall, UDSAP and saying the ‘Hail Mary’ … Ask a Marianist
How busy can a brother be? Right now, Brother Tom Pieper, S.M. ’67, is filling in as resident campus minister at Marycrest while still ministering to the needs of Stuart Hall, where he has worked for 15 years. He coordinates the nine-week UD Summer Appalachia Program in Salyersville, Ky. And he’s taking suggestions for the UDSAP 50th anniversary reunion, less than three years away. Email him ideas at Tom.Pieper@notes.udayton.edu.
What is your favorite part of ministering to first-year students in Stuart Hall? —Daniel Zidek ’13, UD student
When students first come here, they have left everything. I believe the Marianist spirit and charism really offers them a place of welcome. For the first month that’s my main goal — get to know as many names as possible. I try to be proactive, inviting students to deepen and share their faith by being leaders on retreats, leaders of faith-sharing communities, leaders of community-building activities in my residence hall. I love this ministry. It uses lots of my natural gifts and gives me an opportunity to help them grow in their faith and in the person they want to become. And, since I live in the student neighborhood, I can continue to be present to these students as they move on in their four years at UD.
How has the renovation of the Chapel of St. Joseph the Worker enhanced the campus ministry in Stuart Hall? And are you also still playing sand volleyball? —Nick Pohlman ’00 Geneva, Ill.
Our chapel moved from the back of Meyer Hall to the front where the dryers and washers were located. The chapel used to be a rectangle with burnt orange carpeting. Now, when you walk in, it’s a beautiful sacred space to have liturgy and pray — stained glass, sacred furnishings and wooden liturgical pieces made by Brother Gary Marcinowski. And because of its location, many more students have come to celebrate. It’s a great sign of our Marianist and Catholic presence. As for volleyball, I watch, maybe take a few swipes at the ball.
Why did you initially begin moderating UDSAP? What has kept you coming back every summer? —Nichole Davis ’06, Indianapolis
Kentucky is my home state. Going back and being present to my state is valuable to me. When I first went down to fill in for Sister Nancy Bramlage, I just fell in love with the place and what they’re doing. It’s a unique service experience in that the 14 students are involved with the lives of the people — through a day camp, teen center, nursing home visits and family visits — and that has changed me a lot. We really do learn that Appalachia is not just a place where poor people live. We know the faces and the names. Knowing the people, we can be advocates for them. And we live simply — we have a great outhouse.
I feel like the poor have such terrible needs in our current economy, and many political leaders seem to be the worst enemies of their most desperate constituents. What can be done? —Marilyn Stauffer Kaple ’69, Summerville, S.C.
Do research and listen to the volunteer organizations in your community that can instruct you on how to help financially and how to be involved because we are all just part of this great community. At UD, we challenge students to have experiences of being with and living with the poor. Later in life, students who have had these experiences change the way they live, vote and look at the needs of others.
When was “Holy Mary, Mother of God …” added to the “Hail Mary”? —Robert Corgan, Madeira, Ohio
The first parts are scripture from the Gospel of St. Luke — Gabriel at the Annunciation and Mary and Elizabeth at the Visitation. They were said by monks before the 10th and 11th centuries. In 1196, the bishop of Paris ordered all the clergy to teach these Marian verses to all the people. Why not add an intercession for all of us? No one knows who wrote it but, by the 1500s, this intercession was already the tradition.
Is there a difference between Marianists who are brothers and those who are priests? —Bill Lorenz ’84, Nairobi, Kenya
We all call one another “brother,” and that’s an important thing because the Marianists have an equality between brothers and priests. Some brothers have a desire to perform the sacred liturgies and preach the word of God. We as a whole group of brothers work to discern where the spirit is moving in their lives and how to carry out Mary’s mission of bringing Christ into the world. We all have gifts and we discern how to use those gifts for the community.
For our next issue ask Father Jim Fitz ’68, vice president for mission and rector and former assistant provincial of the Marianist Province of the U.S. His office is coordinating UD’s celebration of Chaminade Year, running through January 2012. Email your question to magazine@udayton.edu.
Hospitality, community and graciousness … Ask a Marianist
Amy Lopez-Matthews ’86 answered the call in 2005 to become a Marianist Educational Associate, part of a lay community who steward Marianist and Catholic values on campus and integrate the charism into their professions. As director of student life and Kennedy Union, she employs 80 students annually and works with many more in UD’s 200 student organizations.
You have varied experiences of Marianist education — student at Chaminade Julienne High School, working summer conferences, classroom teaching, leading all of KU’s ministries at the heart of the campus. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned about being a Marianist educator? —Sister Laura Leming, F.M.I. ’87, UD professor
The Marianists talk about a community of equals. While I understand the unique role the faculty play in the classroom, we have staff members and people outside of campus who are completely dedicated to the mission of the Marianists and of the University. We can all have a part to play in educating students. Lots of people educate for values, but do they educate for formation in faith and combine that with the discipleship of equals? Do they combine that with our sense of hospitality? These come together at UD in a distinct way, and that’s what we’re all part of.
In a culture of change, how does the Mother of God give us a role model? —Robert Corgan, Maderia, Ohio
She lived in a culture of change. She didn’t question it, didn’t begrudge it, didn’t wish it away but accepted it and grew stronger through it — being there and saying “yes” and being so strong. I love the passage of the visitation where they talk about Mary’s confusion because I think we all have confusion and we think we shouldn’t. Many of us want clear-cut, even easy, answers. Think about it — what’s easy that we truly value?
What is one thing you appreciate that has endured throughout your time as a student and employee? —Leigh Hartley ’97, Chicago
It’s the sense of community that people feel here. When it comes down to it, they might describe it in ways that are different, but lots of people feel like it’s a place where they can be part of something bigger.
You have worked with students, staff and faculty on committees and initiatives at UD. What makes a group effective? —Kathy Watters, UD professor
If people are around the table because they value the work and if they have a commitment to it, it’s going to be effective. Students have been some of the most amazing contributors in that process. For the committee to recognize what the student experience can bring can be extremely helpful.
How are you able to provide your student workers with guidance and instruction while still allowing them the flexibility and independence to get the job done as they see fit? —BRIAN KOWALSKI ’99, Columbus, Ohio
We want and we need students to develop critical-thinking skills. If we prescribe every aspect of their job, they don’t learn as much as if we empower them to learn the job, make decisions, make mistakes. And jobs are dynamic. Students in the positions change, jobs themselves change, but that need to help students learn how to figure something out on their own is so important.
You have been an advocate for many students and for important justice issues. What motivates you? —Crystal Caruana Sullivan, UD campus ministry director
Have you ever seen The Book of Birthdays? [Opens book and reads Nov. 15, her birthday] “Ready to stand up for themselves and are champions for those who need protection … waiting for the right moment to act … make an issue of honorable behavior.” I just feel like it’s something I’m called to do. And we have examples of students all around us who feel compelled to act. They found organizations, they go lobby the statehouse. They are great motivators.
How do you continue to be gracious and kind, even when you have a lot of things going on? —Father Jerry Chinchar, S.M. ’66, UD campus minister
I try to keep my ungracious and unkind self behind a door because we all have moments. The work we are doing is pretty public work for the institution, and I feel like we have a responsibility to do that work with the models of graciousness and kindness we see in the Marianists, whether those are people we’ve read about or people whom we’ve observed or worked with on campus. I have a lot of models in my 23 years whom I’ve observed who are gracious and kind and still strong and do what they have to do in their jobs. And a sense of humor from Father Jerry doesn’t hurt either.
For our next issue ask Brother Tom Pieper, S.M. ’67, UD campus minister for Stuart Hall and its first-year students. He also moderates the UD Summer Appalachia Program, where 14 students live in community and serve children, teens and the elderly in Salyersville, Ky. He is planning the program’s 50th anniversary celebration for 2013. Email your question to: magazine@udayton.edu.
Missions, martyrs and American culture … Ask a Marianist
Brother Erik Otiende, S.M. ’10 recently returned to Nairobi, Kenya, after more than two years at UD in the educational leadership master’s program. He previously taught secondary school in Zambia. In Nairobi, he is working in the formation house, where brothers who have made their first vows live while attending college. It is the same house where Otiende spent his early years as a Marianist.
What do you think is the most important ministry the Marianists in Nairobi do, and can you tell us a little about the makeup of the Marianist family in Nairobi? —Sister Laura Leming, F.M.I., UD Professor
All the ministries in Nairobi and the Region of Eastern Africa are very important because all of our ministries are options for the poor. We have schools that provide good education to the poor, the Maria House for single mothers, a kindergarten for their vulnerable kids and technical schools that empower youth who cannot afford to go to universities. All these ministries allow the poor to gain their voices and positions in the society; thus all these ministries are important. In Nairobi we have both religious Marianists and the lay Marianists; so far, we haven’t been blessed by the presence of Marianist sisters, so somehow the family is not complete, so to speak.
How can we, as UD students, be involved in supporting your mission? —Daniela R. Abreo, UD fifth-year senior
Some UD students have been generous with their time and have come to do voluntary work here with our projects and in our schools. I also know some who save money and send it for sponsorship of kids here. I think that is how you and other UD students can be involved.
Is there any memory of Brother Roman Wishinski’s service and murder in Africa? Why isn’t he considered a martyr? —C. W. Grennan ’57, Orange, Calif.
The Region of Eastern Africa still remembers and appreciates the seed that was sown by Brother Roman Wishinski and other Marianists who first came to Africa, but the issue of martyrdom and sainthood is considered in the church only when the cause of death is a matter of faith and not just a civil war in the country. Brother Roman was killed in Nigeria’s Biafra War. This war and the perpetrators of this war did not target him because of what he believed in.
What change have you noticed in yourself since the first time you served people in need? —Rafael Carbonell, UD first-year student
In serving people in need, we share our talents and resources with them. Thus, we uplift them. For me, serving in any way gives me joy and peace of heart, especially when the people I am serving are in great need. Once I did voluntary work in the hospital, and since then I have appreciated my health more than ever before.
What disappoints you most about the American culture? —Steve Shiparski ’88, Findlay, Ohio
I wouldn’t say that something disappoints me. Each culture is valuable to the people practicing it. However, a few things here and there were shocking to see and hear. I was shocked by the idea of suing. People have become so money-minded so as you cannot help each other for fear of being sued. There is also too much wastage in the U.S. because some people don’t care much about how they use what they have.
What countries have missions staffed by Marianists from the American province? Do other provinces also have missionaries? —Ernest Avellar ’49, Hayward, Calif.
The Marianists of the United States had lots of missions: District of India, Region of Eastern Africa, Region of Korea, Mexico, Ireland, Japan and the Philippines. Notice I generalized “United States” because, when the brothers began the missions, there were five U.S. provinces: St. Louis, Cincinnati, Pacific, New York and Meribah. Now there are only two, the United States and Meribah. The U.S. province still has missions in the Philippines, India, Mexico and Ireland. The regions of Korea and Eastern Africa have both become independent. Other provinces have missions. For example, the province of France has missions in Ivory Coast and both Congos. Currently, we have Marianists working in countries that are not their homeland; I guess they can be called missionaries in that sense. As Marianists, we are all missionaries according to our founder Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, but that will be a topic for another time.
Did your experience in Dayton give you any new ways of looking at things? —Father Dave Fleming, S.M., UD professor
I think if we are open to growth and God’s graces around us, any experience in life gives us new ways of looking at things. UD being an international university allowed me not only to mingle with people from all walks of life but also to share my culture with them and to experience theirs. My stay in Dayton connected me to a bigger world and not just the United States of America.
Tennis, sharp dressers and a tale of two families … Ask a Marianist
Brother Al Kuntemeier, S.M. ’51 knows what he teaches. Brother Al earned first place in the Texas State Fair Classic tennis tournament, where the lack of competitors in his 80-year-old age bracket required him to win against opponents in their early 70s; last year, he coached Nolan Catholic High School to a boys doubles state title.
Tennis is a very cerebral sport. What life lessons learned in tennis carry over to daily life? —Eric Mahone, UD tennis coach
Yes, a lot of it is in the mind. I have the mindset that I’m going to play my best, and if my best is better than my opponent’s, I’ll win. If I don’t win, it’s not because I didn’t play my best; it’s because my opponent played better. I ask my players after a match, “Did you lose, or did you get beat?” If they played their best, they didn’t lose, no matter what the outcome. My attitude is that I can and will win when I play my best. And that’s what life is all about.
How do you continue to be so good at golf after 63 years of being a Marianist? —Father Bert Buby, S.M. ’45, Dayton
God, and my mom and dad, gave me good genes. I take care of my body, and then it’s practice, practice, practice. Actually, my game is more tennis. Golf takes too much time and it’s too
expensive.
How do you relate your athletic coaching to your life as a Marianist? —Brother Phil Aaron, S.M. ’54, Dayton
Student athletes have a gift, a talent and a corresponding responsibility to do their best. I say, “Play your best, and if you do, I’m satisfied and I’m proud of you.” I want to teach a Christian message. I ask them to accept the gifts God gives them and to use them well. St. Julian of Norwich said, “The greatest honor we can give Almighty God is to live joyfully in the knowledge of His love for us.” I try to live that. I hope that whatever I do — teach accounting, counsel, coach — reflects my dedication, my living my Marianist vocation.
The Marianists were founded by Father Chaminade in Bordeaux, France, in 1817. The Marist order, also the “Society of Mary,” operates Marist High School in Atlanta and other schools throughout the world. They too were founded in France about the same time. How did this happen? It is extremely confusing. —Charles Werling ’58, Suwanee, Ga.
My favorite is when someone asks, “Are you a Marist brother?” The answer: “No, I’m a Marianist — we’re longer than they are.” Father Champagnat, a Marist father, founded the Brothers of Mary in France in 1817. The Marists are also known as the Society of Mary. The religious vows — poverty, chastity and obedience — are essentially the same. Maybe it’s like having two Jones families — name’s the same, but oh so different. We Marianists have our own history, charism, culture, spirit. We are known for community, for family spirit, our special devotion to Mary, the Mother of Jesus. We take our vow of stability, which is a marian dedication to the mission and person of Mary. We live together, brothers and priests, in equality.
Why don’t Marianist brothers wear habits anymore? —Ernest Avellar ’49, Hayward, Calif.
Actually, we never did wear a “habit.” Chaminade ordered that the Marianist dress should differ little from that of seculars. At the time, they wore a chestnut brown Prince Albert coat, then a black Prince Albert coat. That lasted until 1947, when we switched to a short coat, double-breasted black suit, white shirt, black tie. My profession group, 1948, was the first to wear the short coat. People would see a group of us and wonder if we were going to an undertakers’ convention. Very few of us wear the black suit any more. We dress like the professionals of today. One of my claims to fame is that I do dress coordinated. Some of my colleagues call me “GQ.”
What is the key to the kingdom of God? —Francisco Alvarez ’88, San Juan, Puerto Rico
You get into the kingdom of God when you know Him, love Him and serve Him. Sound like the Baltimore Catechism? If you want the kingdom of God, follow the Commandments. And following the Commandments is broader than just “don’t kill” or “don’t miss Mass.” Love God, and show that love by the life you live. Do that and you have the key to the kingdom of God, the key to heaven. I don’t know where heaven is, but I believe in it, and I want to get there.
Apocrypha, Chinese Catholicism and running shoes … Ask a Marianist
Father Bert Buby, S.M. ’45 professor emeritus of religious studies, is recording a CD series on apocryphal Gospels this fall. It will be released by Now You Know Media in time for Christmas.
How did the four Gospels come to be considered canonical and the others lacking in authority or authenticity (apocryphal)? —Ed Smith, Kettering, Ohio
Predominant leadership in early Christianity really separated itself from anything that seemed to be a threat to what they received from the apostles. Canonical Gospels, in general, are founded on earlier traditions. The apocryphal Gospels — literature ranging from 90 A.D. to 700 A.D. — show us the diversity in some of the outlying communities of Christianity and how they looked at leadership from a different perspective. Soon I will be working on the Gospels of Judas and Mary Magdalene, which are very interesting.
What is the difference between a Marianist and a Jesuit? —Evan Ruggiero ’13, Palantine, Ill.
The main difference is the Marianists emphasize a strong discipleship based on the mother of Jesus. They differ in that brothers and priests are on an equal level of respect, with the priests tending to the sacramental life and the brothers tending especially to the education part of our mission, with both working together for the poor and on social justice issues. Jesuits focus on obedience to the pope and are more individual in their expression of community life.
Why did God require himself (Christ) to die for our sins? —Joseph Bonanno ’72, Manchester Township, N.J.
“God so loved the world that he gave his only son” [John 3:16]. The fact that Jesus became human through his mother, Mary, shows us that someone who was human had to be part of the reconciliation necessary to unite the human and the divine, and Jesus was the one to show us the way. What has not been assumed — our human nature — cannot be redeemed.
What do you think is the future of Catholicism in China and South (even North) Korea? —Robin Smith, Dayton
From listening to the Chinese Catholics here in the United States, it will be a difficult and long journey before Catholics will be able to have the same freedom of expression that they have in Taiwan or southern Korea. Communist authorities control the Catholic expression of faith in public.
When there are significant differences between various English translations of Scriptures, do you encourage students and alumni to select the wording that they like most? —Don Wigal ’55, New York City
As a teacher, I show them what it says from the original language — the Greek, Hebrew — and then have them see which of the new translations seems to capture what was in that original text. There’s a commentary given in four English versions that’s very helpful for students —the Complete Parallel Bible. What they like would be the personal application —Scripture is supposed to have an effect on you.
In a contemporary setting, especially in a place where religion is fading into the background, what role do the church and Mary have to play in society? —William P. Anderson, Lac du Flambeau, Wis.
Dignity of human work, dignity of owning property, dignity of the individual — this is really an area in need because of globalization. The church could really help the whole of society by promoting the compendium on social justice and peace statements in a simpler and clearer format, maybe by making them available at a lower price so more people would read them. And how does Mary fit in? I have a graduate student, Laura Morrison, working on that. She’s looking at Mary as a model of the Catholic social mission through the documents and scriptural passages and applying Catholic social teachings to the life and work of Mary.
My senior year at UD, I had the best possible job — student receptionist at Alumni Hall. One of the sweetest memories I have is when you bought a new pair of running shoes and were so excited that you showed them to me. Father Buby, are you still running? —Anne Muth Orlando ’85, Pittsburgh
I started running in 1970 and was still moving at a slow jog until a few years ago. I am not running because of a hip replacement; however, I do try to run from my superiors.
