Volume 133 No. 3 Autumn 2019 www.josephites.org JosephiteHarvest

AND GiftedTalented Page 16

African Americans travel path to sainthood Pages 18,19 4 HOUSE OF FORMATION FROM THE SUPERIOR GENERAL Vocations: Applications pouring in OSEP ITE The Josephites: America’s Missionaries J arvest 5 VOCATIONS DIRECTOR H Dear Friends of the Josephites: Father Stephen Sohe leads recruitment The Josephites are missionaries. The Josephite mission started in 1871 in England when Cardinal Herbert Vaughn, at the request of the Holy Father, established a missionary society to 6 NEW ROADS FOR NOVICES care for the recently emancipated slaves in the . Under the patronage of St. Joseph, Four men begin journey to priesthood the first missionary, the Josephites have been serving in the African-American community in parishes, schools and special ministries. When I mention that we Josephites are missionaries, I admit that I get a curious response. 7 RESPECT FOR LIFE Often, U.S. Catholics think of missionaries as going to foreign lands. Yet, the reality is that our What to say and what to do own country has long been served by missionaries and that legacy of mission continues today. The Josephites are the only congregation of priests and brothers in the American Catholic 7 VOCATION AWARENESS Church whose exclusive mission is to the African-American community. When you read The What can you do to encourage vocations? Harvest, you are invited to learn about our works today and to know more about our past. You also are invited to join us as we go forward in faith to continue our mission here in the Bishop John H. Ricard, SSJ United States. 8 TENT REVIVAL Superior General In this issue of The Harvest, the vocation articles are of special interest to me. Every day, Parish takes faith to the streets the Josephites are recruiting, training and supporting men who have answered the call and are preparing to become Josephite priests. Our new vocation director, Father Stephen Sohe, has 9 SUSTAINING PARTNER been tasked with increasing the number of Josephites so that we can meet the many needs. His Algiers parishioner ‘gives back’ efforts are here in the United States, where admittedly the work is challenging, and in Nigeria, where vocations are abundant. 10 BLACK, CATHOLIC and LEADERS CNS photo/Yara Nardi, Reuters You will read about our novice director, Father Joseph Doyle, who is working daily with four “A life based only on profiting and taking novices at our novitiate in Louisiana. As we look forward to National Vocation Awareness Week National conference celebrates roots advantage of situations to the detriment of others (Nov. 3-9), parishioners and parents are invited to join us in vocation recruitment. inevitably causes inner death.” The autumn season moves quickly toward All Day and All Souls Day. In this issue, 12 ALL SOULS NOVENA – Pope Francis greets a child during his general audience in Paul VI hall at the Vatican Aug. 7. you can learn more about African-American heroes on the path to saintly recognition. You also Come and pray with us, share your intentions are invited to join the Josephites in our annual All Souls Novena. Please share your intentions with us and they will be added to the 9-days of prayer. 13 THE JOSEPHITE MISSION Much more awaits you inside this issue of The Harvest. Thank you for reading and thank Missionary service in the African-American community you for your support of the Josephites, America’s missionaries. Yours in Christ, 14 Q&A: BISHOP ROY CAMPBELL Bishop John H. Ricard, Superior General President of NBCC reflects on his new role publisher Josephite Priests & Brothers volume 133 • number 3 • autumn 2019 • printed in usa • josephites.org 15 FATHER MAURICE SANDS Bishop John H. Ricard, SSJ National collection supports Josephite mission Superior General The Josephites are pro-life, standing for safeguarding the right to life of every human being; pro-family, editorial team promoting the dignity and sanctity of marriage; pro-chastity, upholding the virtue all are called to embody Donald M. Fest, SSJ in their state of life. 16 GIFTED AND TALENTED Francis M. Hull, SSJ St. Augustine helps boys get new opportunities design & production r Advertising Media Plus (AMPs) The mission of The Josephite Harvest is to assist and promote the evangelizing ministry of the Society of St. 17 BLESSED FUNDS www.ampsinc.net Joseph of the Sacred Heart. It is the voice of the Society to summon both men and means to our work and to St. Katharine Drexel supported Josephites mission/harvest office establish enduring bonds with our benefactors. It shall encourage devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, to our 1-844-249-5730 Patron St. Joseph, and to the Patron Saints of our Society. It shall foster racial and cultural understanding 18 AFRICAN-AMERICAN SAINTLY CAUSES [email protected] and reconciliation. It shall make known the achievements of African Americans that reflect the influence of Celebrating heroes of our faith website the Catholic faith. It shall recognize the labors of clergy and lay persons who work for the evangelization of Courtesy St. Augustine High School www.josephites.org African Americans. 20 JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION ON THE COVER postmaster r Slave trader sailed a new course St. Augustine High School in New Orleans has Send address changes to: expanded educational offerings to support the The Josephite Harvest (ISSN 0021-7603, USPS 277-080) is the oldest Catholic mission magazine still publishing The Josephite Harvest gifted and talented students. Read more on in the United States. Established in 1888, it is published quarterly by the Josephites (The Society of St. Joseph of the 1200 Varnum St. Page 16. Sacred Heart) to keep our readers abreast of the work in the Josephite apostolate. Periodicals postage paid at Baltimore, 21 CONTINUING THE MISSION Washington, DC 20017 MD. Title and seal represent accepted trademark. Contents may be reprinted with permission of the St. Joseph’s Society Called to be a missionary (ISSN 0021-7603) of the Sacred Heart, Inc.) 22 PERPETUAL ENROLLMENT

the postulants will never need to rely on outside housekeeping once they become professed Josephites. They go to class, followed by midday prayer, lunch, siesta, evening prayer, dinner, studying and mandatory lights- out at 11 p.m. It’s a regimented life but not every day is the same. Postulants have one day off from lunch until 6 p.m., where they may head into town or do what they want. They also have a weekly “desert day” – other than praying or singing hymns, there is no speaking. “You are supposed to meditate on Courtesy Alexis B. Robinson, All Saints parish being there,” Father Asomkase said. “Is Josephite seminarians visited All Saints church in New Orleans (Algiers) while spending the summer in this the right place for me? Do I really residence at the Josephite House of Studies at Corpus Christi-Epiphany church. In this photo (from left) are want to be a priest?” Eugene Mitte, Father Peter Weiss, SSJ, pastor at All Saints, Exekiel Esezobor and Dominic Tochi Njoku. Postulants meet with their spiritual The seminarians returned to Washington, DC, for studies at Catholic University of America. advisors on desert day. Priests from the local diocese, the Missionaries of St. Paul, New vocations director and the offer their counsel and experience. The formation house typically accepts sees challenge, hope ahead a class of 10 men. After their postulancy, By Erik Zygmont want that, too.’” they proceed to the St. Martin de Porres Father Sohe will not rely solely on Josephite House of Studies in Ibadan, the Father Stephen Sohe, SSJ, newly his own assessment of the situation. He capital city of Oyo State, Nigeria, where appointed vocations director for the plans to approach parents, asking them they study philosophy for four years. Josephites, will be dealing with two very why they believe American youths are not Photo courtesy Father Francis Asomkase, SSJ Father Asomkase is rector of the house different regions when it comes to men responding to vocations. He will also talk Father Francis Asomkase, SSJ, (pictured) says applications are pouring in for the newly reopened St. Joseph the Worker House of Formation in Iperu-Remo, Nigeria. of studies. The Josephites have not yet who wish to enter religious life. to the youths themselves, posing a simple selected a rector for the formation house. In his native Nigeria, there are “so many, yet not-easy-to-answer question: “What “It’s a 24-hour job,” Father Asomkase many interested in priesthood or religious are you looking for? What does vocation said. “Students need things apart from life that you get to set the number you will mean to you?” classes and spiritual direction every hour pick from the applications,” said Father Father Sohe, who will remain pastor HOUSE OF FORMATION of the day.” Sohe, who was named vocations director of Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish in The formation house had been closed in late July. Houston, Texas, while serving as voca- for three years due to challenges related Meanwhile, in America, “most youth, tions director, acknowledged that the ‘Applications pouring in’ to manpower and finances. even though we work in their parishes, task of building vocations is serious and The reopening is a major step forward, have no idea what a Josephite is.” strenuous. By Erik Zygmont those with a West African Examinations morning, and head directly to chapel. according to Father Anthony Okwum, While Father Sohe does not have any “I don’t want to say I was overwhelmed,” Council certificate (equivalent to a high “You close your eyes, and put your SSJ, vice rector of the house of studies, “magic ideas” for tackling this discrepancy, he said, describing his initial reaction to After three years of closure, the St. school diploma) or 28 for those with a hands in your lap, or kneel if you want,” because “we need more priests.” he believes the answer will involve tapping his new role, “but I was pretty much Joseph the Worker House of Formation in post-secondary degree. Father Asomkase said. “You try to see “We have a lot of work to do with the into the history of the Josephites, as well overwhelmed. It’s not for me to decide.” Nigeria is open and receiving applications Young men who aspire to be Josephite what God is saying to you, or you speak African-American community,” Father as “the history of the African-American In a similar fashion, he believes Afri- “in the hundreds” from young men inter- priests or brothers spend their postulant to him in the silence of your heart.” Okwum said. “We have a shortage of – the struggle of Black can-American youths will step up to ested in becoming Josephites, according year at the formation house – it is their Morning prayer immediately follows priests but more work to do.” believers.” the challenge once they understand the to Father Francis Asomkase, SSJ. first year sleeping, eating, living and pray- meditation and then morning Mass. Father Asomkase said aging Josephites The other enticer, he added, is the joy history of their people in the church and “There are so, so many applications,” ing with the Society of St. Joseph of the The postulants head to the refectory for are comforted to hear of the reopening. of the priesthood. the importance of the ministry. Father Asomkase said. “Nigeria is a very Sacred Heart. breakfast and then perform their “morn- “They keep reminding me of how big “Money cannot buy happiness,” Father “If we give them something to chew on, fertile land for vocations. “It is a very, very important year,” Father ing functions” – tasks, such as cleaning a blessing that will be,” he said. Sohe said. “Material things cannot buy think about and reflect on,” Father Sohe Located in Iperu-Remo in Nigeria’s Asomkase said. “The year is about the bathrooms and sweeping hallways, that The first class of 10 postulants will happiness. When the youth see that we’re said, “maybe it will give them the desire Ogun State, the formation house accepts fundamental basics of religious life.” both keep the formation house clean and begin studies at the formation house in enthusiastic about what we’re doing, that to say, ‘You know what? I’m going to take men as young as 18 and up to 25 for The postulants wake at 5:30 a.m. every in working order and that ensure that October 2020. we’re happy priests, they might say, ‘I on this challenge.’”

4 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •5 Respect Life Month celebrates National Vocation Novices travel ‘New Roads’ ‘Christ our Hope’ Awareness Week A week specially set aside to of prayer and reflection pray for and promote vocations, National Vocation Awareness week After their postulancy year, praying like they asked to make a promise to the Josephites.” is Nov. 3-9. By Erik Zygmont have never prayed before, and then several years The novices must perform a minimum of Father Stephen Sohe, SSJ, Joseph- of philosophy study, aspiring Josephites earn 10 hours of pastoral ministry per week; the ite vocations director, said everyone the right to be called novices and to wear the hours count toward credits at The Catholic has a role in promoting vocations. Holy Habit of St. Joseph, a no-button cassock University of America in Washington, D.C., s that is essentially a black robe with sash. where they will study theology for four years Parishioners The novitiate year at Mary Immaculate once they complete their novitiate year. Father Sohe has a simple task for While the Novitiate located at St. Augustine Church in “Catholic University considers them in class parishioners who wish to promote New Roads, La., is a year of prayer, confer- when they’re doing pastoral ministry,” Father vocations. primary focus ences, study and apostolate activity, said Father Doyle said. “This is the first time Catholic “Tell the story!” he said. “That’s Joseph Doyle, SSJ, in his third year as novice University has been incorporated into the what I always say. Many of our of the novitiate director. novitiate.” people don’t know Black Catholic is prayer and The goal of the year is “to set a foundation of At St. Augustine Parish, the men teach history and the struggle of Black spirituality for those preparing for the priest- religious education and serve at Mass. They October is celebrated as “Respect embryonic stem cell research, assisted Catholics – not just Blacks, but reflection – the hood and brotherhood – something they can also visit nursing homes and perform other Life Month” in the United States with suicide and capital punishment. Ask Black Catholics.” take with them for life, whatever their vocation outreach to the surrounding community. many Catholic parishes observing the them to support tighter restrictions on He noted that bishops did not novices pray may be,” Father Doyle said. Father Doyle noted that town of New Roads first Sunday of the Month as a special guns to stem violence. allow at one time Blacks in the ● This year, three of the novices are from Nige- is celebrating its 300th anniversary in 2020. time to uphold the sanctity of life during Speak out against government seminary and the Josephites were three hours liturgical celebrations. policies that demean immigrants and ria. Ugochukwu Henry Ihuoma, 27; George “We’ll be taking part in that,” he said. sometimes prohibited from minis- The theme for this year’s Respect Life undocumented workers. Agwu Liwhuliwhe, 34; and Ifiok Ini Obong The novices participated in a unique eucharis- tering in certain places. every day, Month is “Christ our Hope: In every ● Get involved in pro-life pregnancy Umanah, 27, join Cursey Calais II, 28, a native tic procession by boat along the Bayou Teche to “There’s a lot we can learn from including the of Opelousas, La., at the former convent at St. mark the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Season of Life.” resource centers in your community. Catholics are encouraged to think Collect baby items, furniture and other history,” Father Sohe said. “In Augustine parish. Virgin Mary Aug. 15, Father Doyle said. One parishes, I don’t think we do enough The four men were invested July 28 at the hundred twenty-five miles long and carrying about protecting all lives, including the supplies for pregnancy resource centers Liturgy of the to share our stories. If we did, parish, opening their novitiate year. heavy cultural and historical significance (it unborn, those on death row, the sick to give to expectant mothers in need. people would come to appreciate Hours, the The three men from Nigeria and the one Amer- was the scene of Civil War gunboat battles), the and vulnerable, the elderly, the poor and If you meet a woman considering an and maybe fall in love with what ican have been mixing well, Father Doyle said. Teche is located entirely in Louisiana. immigrants. abortion, encourage her to seek help at rosary and two “The parents of Cursey have kind of adopted History is also part of the novitiate year; a Here are some things you can do and a resource center. we do.” say to uphold the dignity of every life ● If you or someone you know has holy hours – the three Nigerians – they get along very well,” visit to a Louisiana plantation will help the Parents he said. novices, particularly the Nigerian men, better from conception to natural death: had an abortion, seek healing through there is also While the primary focus of the novitiate is understand the history of the community they ● Pray for a change of heart in those ministries such as Rachel’s Vineyard Parents also have a role to play in prayer and reflection – the novices pray three will vow to serve. thinking of having an abortion, commit- (www.rachelsvineyard.org) promoting vocations. Talking about some manual hours every day, including the Liturgy of the Practical matters to be attended to include ting suicide, participating in embryonic ● Hold peaceful prayer vigils outside vocations regularly can help a “voca- Hours, the rosary and two holy hours – there is a “very thorough psychological evaluation” for stem cell research or harming another abortion clinics. tion culture” to take root in homes. labor, such as also some manual labor, such as cooking meals all four novices, and driver education for the person in any way. ● Before saying anything to a friend or Do not be afraid to talk about cooking meals and cleaning. Nigerian men. ● Display posters and flyers in support acquaintance who holds views counter vocations. Vocations kept out of “The young man from Opelousas is an excel- Recreational activities include bicycling and of the sanctity of life at your parish. They to the culture of life, pray to find the sight are out of mind. and cleaning. lent cook,” Father Doyle observed. “He’s a real soccer. may be downloaded for free at respect- right words. Speak in a way that models Parents are encouraged to teach chef.” “They can keep in touch – on a limited life.org, sponsored by the U.S. Catholic love and is respectful of the dignity of young people how to pray. The pope Father Doyle lives with the novices “24-7” basis – with family and friends,” Father Doyle bishops. the person with whom you may disagree. once said that unless we teach our he said, adding, “My job is see that they grow said, adding that New Roads, the program’s ● Hold a Respect Life Mass or Holy ● Visit those in nursing homes who youth how to pray, they will never deeper in their spirituality, learn and expe- location for about three years now, is an ideal Hour at your parish. Start a pro-life may not have any family or friends. hear God calling them into a deeper rienece what to takes to be a Josephite by town for the novitiate. “If there are too many prayer group or respect life ministry at ● Get involved in prison ministry. relationship with Him and into studying the constitution and by laws of the distractions they can’t make progress in their your parish or among your friends. ● If you know a struggling single discipleship of the church. group. When the year is completed they are spiritual lives,” he said. ● Contact your lawmakers and ask mother who needs help, offer to babysit them to enact laws to end abortion, for free or cook a meal.

6 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •7 Photos by Phyllis L. Johnson Josephites inspire Algiers parishioner

Courtesy St. Raymond/St. Leo the Great to give back About 300-400 people attended each night of the tent revival presented by St. By George P. Matysek Jr. Mrs. Bush-Harrison said her mother, who was Raymond/St. Leo the Great not Catholic, enrolled her in All Saints School parish in New Orleans May When Eurydice Bush-Harrison reminisces as a child as a matter of convenience since it 19-22. about growing up in the Algiers section of New was a block away. It was there she received a Orleans in the 1960s and ’70s, her thoughts solid educational foundation, going on to earn a inevitably turn to the Josephites. degree in communications from Xavier Univer- She still remembers Father Paul J. Lanigan, sity in New Orleans. She also grew in her faith. SSJ, from All Saints Parish volunteering to give Influenced in part by the Josephites’ positive WITNESS IN THE STREETS free violin lessons to her brothers, sometimes influence on her daughter, Mrs. Bush-Harri- New Orleans parish shares its faith at annual tent revival eliciting excited shouts when he showed up on son’s mother converted to Catholicism. So did the family’s doorstep with boxes of doughnuts. Darryl Harrison, Mrs. Bush-Harrison’s husband, By Rita Buettner The eighth annual event, held May 19-22, included Father Mrs. Bush-Harrison vividly recalls Josephite who joined the faith of his wife after befriend- Charles Smith, SVD, and his twin brother Father Chester seminarians stationed at All Saints tutoring ing Father Rodney Armstrong, SSJ, before he became a priest. More than eight years ago, Father Anthony Bozeman, Smith, SVD, Janice Curtis Green, Father Tony Ricard, and neighborhood children in reading and math “My husband said, ‘If Rod’s a Josephite, they SSJ, was leading a parish that had lost about a third of its then Father Bozeman, who speaks on the final evening and during the summer. They even joined pick-up must be pretty good guys,” Mrs. Bush-Harrison parishioners and was still adjusting to its consolidation into a brings all the other speakers’ reflections together. baseball games and took children swimming. said with a laugh, noting that her two daughters single parish. The pastor had the idea to try to bring the New “It’s so inspiring. It’s so spiritual. It’s so affirming,” Ms. When a playground near the church was have both been active in the parish. Her eldest Orleans parish together by planning an old-fashioned tent Pierce-Wright said. “It’s just a beautiful, beautiful experience.” integrated, she said, Josephites were among the daughter was married by All Saints’ pastor, Courtesy Eurydice revival – an event that would be bold, different and serve as a In addition to the actual event, the parish reaches out to the strongest supporters. Bush-Harrison Father Peter Weiss, SSJ, whom Mrs. Bush-Har- way of evangelization. homeless by welcoming them into the space, feeding everyone “They’ve always been there,” said Mrs. Eurydice Bush-Harrison, rison had first encountered as a child when he an active parishioner “We needed to be a witness in the streets,” he said. “We were who attends, and providing bags of clothing for them through Bush-Harrison, who was baptized by Father was stationed at her parish as a seminarian. of All Saints Parish in dealing with a lot of violence in the community, and there was the St. Vincent de Paul Society. The tent revival also includes Raymond “Doc” Carignan, SSJ, and then Mrs. Bush-Harrison, operations manager for a New Orleans, is a a lot of consternation going on in a lot of different areas. We opportunities for medical screenings and voter registration. married by the same priest 25 years later. A strong supporter of the local workforce office that helps connect people decided that it was timely and necessary.” “We are trying to minister to the whole person,” said podiatrist, Father Carignan had used his medical Josephites. with employment, said she When Father Bozeman started sharing his idea with his Marlene Wilson, the parish’s director of religious education, expertise to treat the poor at the Fisher Clinic is inspired by the Joseph- colleagues in St. Raymond/St. Leo the Great parish in New who sees children and their families coming into the church in Algiers. ites’ positive, “get-it-done” Orleans, however, they didn’t all initially embrace the concept. as a result. “The tent revival has an impact far beyond the “I’ve seen them be courageous in our commu- outlook and support for lay “God gave the vision to him, and when he told me about four days.” nity and I’ve seen them stand with us,” Mrs. empowerment. it, I was not on board,” said Loyce Pierce-Wright, tent revival Father Bozeman believes the concept of the tent revival Bush-Harrison said. “They dedicated their lives “I see them as committed coordinator, who was concerned about holding the event in reflects the spirit of the Josephites who historically tried to to helping us.” to helping people elevate a part of the city known for its crime and drug abuse. “But bring the faith to areas where there were no churches. Even Now 57, the lifelong All Saints’ parishioner themselves in terms of Father said, ‘We have to chase Jesus to the streets.’ ” though he hadn’t initially planned for the tent revival to be gives back to the Josephites with her time and morality, education and So, they chased Jesus to the streets and planned a tent revival an annual event, he can appreciate that the parish – and the financial donations. being good people,” she said. in a community park that attracted hundreds of people – and community – appreciate it enough that they count down to At her parish, Mrs. Bush-Harrison is a reli- “They encourage us to be not just Catholics. The spiritually uplifting event has deepened it each spring. gious education instructor, extraordinary minis- loving in spite of whatever the parish’s connection with the community and, during the “I’m in a store getting toothpaste, and a guy comes up and try of Holy Communion, a former member of else may happen – to always nights of the revival, the community, has experienced no crime says, ‘When’s the tent revival?’ They’re looking forward to it the pastoral council and co-chair of the parish’s have that Christian heart in the area. because they know their community is being impacted,” Father 100th anniversary committee. She recently and that Christian outlook About 300-400 people attended each night of the tent Bozeman said. “When we are open to God, that’s the real helped give a presentation in Baton Rouge as of thinking about what Jesus revival, gathering in prayer and song and hearing from blessing. We get to see God doing great things through us part of an effort to have her church be declared speakers. because we are open to him.” a historic landmark. would do.”

8 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •9 Black clergy, women religious, seminarians mark history, celebrate

By Paul McMullen The joint conference of the national organizations for Black Catholic clergy, women religious, seminarians and deacons finally made its first stop in Baltimore, a city noted for several firsts on the road to equality in the faith. The annual conference brings together members of the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus, the National Black Sisters’ Conference, the National Black Catholic Seminarians Association and the National Association of Black Catholic Deacons. The NBCCC was founded in 1968, followed in turn by the other groups. They began meeting jointly because of their commonalities. CNS photo/Kevin J. Parks, Catholic Review Sister Beulah Martin, a member of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, (center right,) of Powhatan, Va., waves in Baltimore’s historic St. Francis Xavier Church One of this year’s attendees, Sister July 22, at a Mass honoring jubilarians during a joint conference of black priests, women religious, deacons and seminarians. Beulah Martin, a Sister of the Blessed CNS photo/Kevin J. Parks, Catholic Review Sacrament, didn’t wait for the formal Father Donald Sterling, pastor of New All Saints church in Baltimore, center, is among the priests including Sister Callista Robinson, of the Fran- men, who looked like me, that had been fight. God can’t bless you, if you’re not opening of the July 20-24 gathering to Josephites processing into Baltimore’s St. Francis Xavier Church July 22 for a Mass honoring jubilarians ciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minnesota. living the call of Jesus for 25 years, 50, there.” soak up some of that Baltimore history. during a joint conference of Black priests, women religious, deacons and seminarians. Those recognized for 50 years of 60, 70, some 80 years, I knew I could While Father Smith took the train Sister Beulah was among the more the sister who has demonstrated service Gregory said. “Sisters, you have carried service included Sister Rita Michelle do it,” she told the Catholic Review, back to Yonkers, New York, to celebrate than 100 priests, deacons, seminarians and dedication “as a liberator of Afri- the church on your shoulders.” Proctor, superior general of the Oblate the news outlet of the Baltimore 6:45 a.m. Mass July 23 for the Annun- and religious women from around the can-Americans and/or peoples of the Concelebrants included Bishop John Sisters of Providence. Her cousin, Archdiocese. ciation-Our Lady of Fatima community nation at a July 22 Mass at Historic St. African Diaspora.” H. Ricard, SSJ, the superior general of Sister Gwynette Proctor, organized The homily, in contrast, was deliv- he serves, most joint congress attendees Francis Xavier, the first Black Catholic As her teaching ministry took her to the Josephites, whose roots include the conference along with Sister Josita ered by Father Kareem Smith, who was spent the day furthering their knowl- church established in the United States. Birmingham, Alabama, Chicago and serving freed slaves in Baltimore in Colbert, a fellow Sister of Notre Dame ordained for the Archdiocese of New edge of Baltimore’s Black history with It was her 10th day in town, as Sister now Powhatan, Virginia, where she is the 1870s; and Washington Auxiliary de Namur. York in 2018. a bus tour. Beulah had spent her annual retreat at launching a pre-school, Sister Beulah Bishop Roy E. Campbell, president of Sister Josita estimates that 80 percent “My story is your story,” he said. That day included a Gospel festival, the motherhouse of the Oblate Sisters of has been a regular attendee of the joint the National Black Catholic Confer- of the women religious at the confer- “How many times have you been told, with song from the St. Ambrose Gospel Providence, who in 1829 were founded conference since making her final vows ence, who was raised in southern ence included teaching among their ‘You hang in there, you keep pushing.’ Choir, New All Saints Men’s Chorus by Mother Mary Lange, a candidate for in 1984. Maryland. ministries. Sister Gwynette, director of ... Brothers and sisters, this thing is not and the Cardinal Shehan School Choir, sainthood, as the first community for “I come for the support,” she said, Among others, the National Black the Office of Black Catholic Ministries about what we have done, but what which went viral in 2017 with its rendi- sisters of African descent in the U.S. “and to gather information about how Catholic Clergy Caucus was represented for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, noted God is doing.” tion of “Rise Up.” The Shehan choir is Sister Beulah’s retreat included learn- I can go back to my community and by its new president, Deacon Melvin the impact the jubilarian liturgy had on He addressed the “carnal” nature of led by Kenyatta Hardison, who doubles ing about Mother Lange from Oblate share the good news.” Tardy, of the Diocese of Fort Wayne- her discernment. the modern world, and the call to live as choir director at Historic St. Francis Sister Magdala Marie Gilbert, who is Her kindred spirits at the Mass, South Bend, Indiana. The Gospel was “When I entered (her order) 39 years “radically different lives.” Xavier church. advocating for her cause, and her daily which acknowledged jubilarians, read by Deacon Joseph Connor of the ago and attended my first (jubilarian “I’m standing on the shoulders of The joint congress – organized under hourlong walk on property that adjoins included Washington Archbishop Archdiocese of Seattle, president of the liturgy),” Sister Gwynette said, “I saw those who have come before us,” Father the theme “This Work Is Ours to Do: Patapsco Valley State Park. Wilton D. Gregory, who presided and National Association of Black Catholic our elders, jubilarians, all the members Smith said. “In this troubled world, we Send Us” – concluded with business “It’s only hot if you think about it,” made women religious the focus of his Deacons. of the organizations and I experienced have to show up ... ready for the fight. meetings and an awards dinner July 24. said Sister Beulah, who at the 2017 closing remarks. Jubilarians were recognized by Sister God’s touch, a shiver went through me. “They may not like you. They may joint conference received the Harriett “Our jubilarians had the courage to Roberta Fulton, who is president of It was at that moment that all uncer- say you’re not smart enough. They may McMullen is managing editor of the Tubman Award from the National enter religious life when there were few the National Black Sisters’ Conference. tainty and doubt left me.” have threatened you. They may try to Catholic Review, the news outlet of the Black Sisters’ Conference. It is given to (minorities in those ranks),” Archbishop Honored for 60 years of service was “When I saw faithful women and intimidate you, but show up for the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

10 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •11 ALL

The Josephites: Missionaries in America

By Erik Zygmont He acknowledged the unique dynamic ‘Lord Jesus Christ, deliver the souls of all the faithful departed’ currently at work in the Josephites, with many Established by Pope Pius XI in 1926, World men from Nigeria joining the society and SOULSIn the fall, we celebrate the harvest of the by the other offices of piety usually performed Mission Sunday, falling on Oct. 20 this year, is a coming to the U.S. as missionaries, but he said summer season but we also begin moving by the faithful.” day dedicated to prayer for the church’s missions. he doesn’t see nationalities. toward that season of dying. The plants give Each year, as part of our ministry, Josephites While the word “mission” carries with it “I don’t see American and Nigerian Joseph- up their abundant life. The days grow shorter. lead “Nine Days of Prayer for the Departed,” images of distant shores, danger and difficult ites,” he said. “I see the Society of St. Joseph And, it is a time of remembering. Oct. 24 - Nov. 2. You are invited to join in conditions, it doesn’t have to be that way, of the Sacred Heart working to serve the Afri- s So easy it is to get caught up in the day-to- this Novena with us and remember your loved according to Father Stephen Sohe, SSJ, pastor can-American community where their service “I see the day events of our life that we lose perspective ones. The Josephites will remember your loved of Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish in Houston, is still very much needed.” Society of St. of our mission here on earth. Fortunately, the ones during the Novena and the Masses we Texas, and vocations director for the Josephites. St. Joseph, Father Sohe added, provides a Joseph of the liturgical calendar is a spiritual tool to keep us offer. “The Josephites are a home-based missionary sterling example to the missionary. in harmony with God’s plan. As we remember our departed loved ones, society,” he explained, noting that the commu- “I’m able to see St. Joseph in my ministry in Sacred Heart Our church draws our attention to this we can take comfort that there is something nity’s mission is focused solely on the U.S. and terms of his faith in God, love for God and trust working to serve natural rhythm of God’s plan by celebrating we can do. We can cherish their memories and ministering specifically to African Americans, in God,” he said. the African- the Feast of All Saints and All Souls at the ask God to shower his mercy on them. “wherever they may be in the U.S.” While St. Joseph was assured in a dream that beginning of November. During this time, our This year, please join the Josephites, who pray “We don’t just minister to those in our church his new wife’s baby was conceived by the Holy American church reminds us of our call to a saintly life. with confidence, “Eternal rest grant unto them, and in our pews, but to those in our streets Spirit and that he should not be afraid to take community At the same time, we are asked to pray for O Lord. May perpetual light shine upon them.” and in our neighborhoods,” Father Sohe added. her into his home, it was his heart that made where their our deceased loved ones, and all of the dearly To enroll your deceased loved ones in the “With the political situation and police brutal- him open to the dream, Father Sohe said. departed, that God will forgive their sins and Nine Days of Prayer for the Departed, Oct. ity, I think it’s more needed now than ever.” “If he didn’t have that heart, he wouldn’t have service is still welcome them into eternal joy. 24-Nov. 2, please use the envelope on this page While localized to one country, the Joseph- believed any dream,” he said. “We walk by faith, very much During the liturgical feasts of All Saints and and list the names to be added to the prayer ite mission does share a characteristic with the not by sight. If he had walked by sight, he prob- All Souls, we can storm the gates of heaven intentions for the Novena and for the Mass on foreign missions. “We don’t wait for them to ably would have divorced Mary.” needed.” with our prayers on behalf of our dearly the Feast of All Souls. come to us; we go to them,” Father Sohe said, At the same time, Father Sohe said, the Father Stephen Sohe, SSJ departed. Our church teaches that those who All donations from this Novena are used for “regardless of their financial background, poli- Josephites “can’t see our mission as anything have died in the love of God can have their the education and training of future Josephite tics, orientation or age. We are all made in God’s extraordinary.” souls purged of the punishment due to their priests and brothers. It is these men, now in image and likeness. We all have our struggles, “It’s just doing what you’re called to do,” he sins, “by the suffrages of the faithful in this life, formation, who will continue the Josephite but we are here to help, to minister to you in said, “living with people, loving people and that is, by Masses, prayers, and almsgiving, and mission with your love and support. any way we can.” learning from people.”

12 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •13 Q&A with Bishop Roy Campbell, new NBCC president Black and Indian Mission Collection We help build up strengthens Josephite parishes By Rita Buettner

In early 2019, Father Maurice Henry Sands traveled to the Diocese of Beaumont in Texas. leaders in our church Hurricane Harvey, which swept through south- By George P. Matysek Jr. but for the future. We also have to be able to east Texas, in 2017 damaged homes and busi- help support Africans and Latinos who share nesses, parishes and schools. Washington Auxiliary the faith and who are coming and residing in Now almost two years later, Father Sands, exec- Bishop Roy E. Campbell our communities. utive director of the Black and Indian Mission Jr., who has strong ties The Congress wants to have conferences to Office, was there to follow up on a grant to to the Josephites, began help parishes and lay and clerical leadership repair and rebuild Catholic schools that serve s a new role April 1 as address, support and help others in the growth African-American students in the area. president of the Balti- of their faith and the community in which they “Without the grant being provided, those ‘I think more-based National live. schools wouldn’t be open right now,” said Father Black Catholic Congress, The NBCC pastoral plan that is developed Sands. people succeeding Bishop John every five years is developed by the people, for The funding that made it possible for the Ricard, SSJ. the people, in the dioceses. schools to reopen came from the Black and would be Bishop Campbell The last year has been a difficult one Indian Mission Collection, a national collection. surprised serves as pastor of St. for the Church. What impact has it had? The collection, which was established by the U.S. bishops in 1884, supports evangelization Joseph church in Largo, Even with what has happened with the iden- to know and ministry in the Native American and Afri- a parish that had been tification of a number of sexual abuse claims can-American communities. staffed by Josephites for where some of the bishops have not done their that there Through the generosity of those who support much of its history. role or who, unfortunately, have been accused the collection, the Commission for the Catholic are about The new NBCC themselves, Black Catholics have not lost their CNS photo/Nancy Wiechec Missions awards grant money to dioceses across president has worked faith and have not moved away. It’s because of Father Maurice Henry Sands facilitates “talking circles” in the country to operate and support schools, 2014 during the annual Tekakwitha Conference in Fargo, ND. three million closely with Josephites their faith in God, as opposed to putting faith in parishes and other missionary services in Native in Washington, D.C., one person. One of the roles we have is to help African- American, Alaska Native, and Black Catholic Among those receiving the grants are parishes holding his parish’s strengthen that chosen purpose in remaining communities. and schools and programs run and supported by Confirmation retreats at in the faith. American St. Joseph Seminary, the “Any parish or school or ministry program that the Josephites. Josephite seminary in the What is the biggest challenge facing is serving African Americans or Native Americans “I get to visit different places all around the Catholics.’ nation’s capital. He has the Black Catholic community? can apply for a grant,” said Father Sands, who has country and there are Josephites serving in those Father Sands worked with Josephite The biggest challenge is to see that within the served in his role since September 2015. places, and other places that were formerly served seminarians stationed at communities in which they live, worship and Last year’s collection brought in a little more by the Josephites. I meet Josephites all over,” his parish, consulted with work, they have an equal voice in the church. than $10 million that was awarded through Father Sands said. Bishop Ricard and gave I’m not just talking about the parish level. I’m about 1,800 grants. “There are many parishes and St. Augustine High School in New Orleans is reflections at the Joseph- talking about the diocesan level. A lot of times schools that have been in existence for a long time one of the Josephite institutions that has bene- CNS photo/Jaclyn Lippelmann, ites’ priest retreat last year. in dioceses, we struggle to make sure everyone and without the collection, they wouldn’t be,” fited from the grant funding, he said. The Catholic Standard is represented. said Father Sands, a priest of the Archdiocese of Grants awarded through the Black and Indian Washington Auxiliary Bishop Bishop Campbell recently spoke with The Jose- You look around and maybe everyone you Detroit. Mission Collection support and strengthen Roy E. Campbell speaks phite Harvest about the NBCC and its mission. during an “A.C.T. to End see in a particular vocation of leadership doesn’t Native American himself, Father Sands enjoys programs that continue to spread the Catholic Racism” rally on the National Why is the NBCC so important and so reflect the diversity of our church. These are the traveling to different parishes and schools to faith. Mall in Washington April needed? struggles of Black, African and Latino Catholics see the impact of the Black and Indian Mission “I think people would be surprised to know 4, 2018. The rally marked We look at the role and the importance – to have those roles and bring the gifts to the that there are about three million African-Amer- the 50th anniversary of the Collection. assassination of civil rights of Black Catholics in the church and in the table that God has given us. “I’m just very grateful that I’m able to visit ican Catholics and about one million Native leader the Rev. Martin Luther secular community and support them and let Also, young adults and youth need to see many of the places where the grant is helping,” American Catholics,” Father Sands said. “I think King Jr. them understand their worth and importance. the worth of staying with the church and not Father Sands said. “I’m really very happy to be that Catholics in general would be very interested Through programs and events, we help build dismissing religion or going to another faith to a part of it and to know that we make a very in the ministry to these people and interested in up leaders in our church, not only for today fulfill their spiritual needs. positive difference.” supporting it.”

14 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •15 SAINTLY DEEDS AND BLESSED FUNDS St. Katharine Drexel funded Josephite ministries By George P. Matysek Jr. today’s Josephite institutions are actually Josephite schools around the country. older than the society because St. Katha- In total, St. Katharine founded more At a time when Josephites struggled rine helped get them started prior to the than 60 schools for African Americans to fund and staff their various missions establishment of the Josephites. and Native Americans. That included to African-American Catholics at the Father Herbert Vaughn (a future cardi- Xavier University in New Orleans, end of the 19th century and into the nal) sent missionary priests from the the nation’s only Catholic, historically 20th century, they relied heavily on the Mill Hill Josephite Fathers in England Black university, which was founded support of a wealthy heiress who devoted to minister to Black Americans in 1871. with guidance from Josephites who also her life to lifting up the downtrodden. The American Josephites separated from served on staff. St. Katharine Drexel was the daughter the Mill Hill Fathers in 1893 to form “St. Katharine Drexel, foundress of of , a successful their own society in the United States. the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, and financier and Catholic The archival records of the Sisters of Cardinal Herbert Vaughn, founder of philanthropist. When Francis Drexel the Josephites, shared a concern that not died in 1885, his daughter, Katharine, all of God’s children had equal opportu- and her sisters, Elizabeth Drexel Smith s nities, particularly in the realm of educa- and Louise Drexel Morrell, inherited In total, St. Katharine tion,” said Sister Jane Nesmith, SBS, vice a fortune valued at more than $400 founded more than president of the Sisters of the Blessed million in today’s dollars. 60 schools for African Sacrament. “They each envisioned the The sisters decided to follow the founding of a that philanthropic example of their father, Americans and Native could be a part of bridging that gap as designating much of their fortune to Americans including an action plan.” helping others. Xavier University As the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament St. Katharine used her share to fund prayed for the ministry of the Josephites, Courtesy St. Augustine High School ministry among Native Americans and in New Orleans, the Josephites prayed for the Sisters. Students participate in a summer learning camp organized by St. Augustine High School in New Orleans. African Americans. Her sister, Louise, the nation’s only The archives of the Sisters of the did the same. Catholic, historically Blessed Sacrament show that Father Elizabeth Drexel Smith also supported Joseph Kelly, SSJ, offered a Mass once a St. Augustine High School aims philanthropic endeavors, especially Black university, month for St. Katharine Drexel’s inten- among African Americans, before her which was founded tions beginning with his ordination in life was cut short in 1890 while giving with guidance from 1908. The archives have a record of St. to bridge gap for gifted students birth to her only child, who also died. Katharine thanking him in 1946 for his St. Katharine founded the Sisters of Josephites who also nearly four decades of spiritual support. St. Augustine High School in New To help address the gap, the St. Augus- Prospective academy students are tested the Blessed Sacrament in 1891, whose served on staff. St. John Paul II canonized St. Kath- Orleans has launched a new initiative tine High School Academy for Gifted prior to acceptance and before they begin ministry focused on American Indians arine in 2000 as the second U.S.-born designed to make gifted educational Boys was introduced with the help of the after-school, Saturday and summer and Black Americans. It was through the Blessed Sacrament are replete with . He described her philanthropy programming accessible to minority a $150,000 grant over three years from enrichment classes. that outreach that she strengthened ties references to purchases of property for as a “shining example of American young men. the Daughters of Charity – Mission and These intensive yet fun, interactive to the Josephites. the Josephites. They included the found- generosity.” Typically, gifted and talented programs Ministries Inc. The academy identifies courses explore topics not typically Father Michael Thompson, SSJ, ing of an industrial school in Clayton, “Her apostolate helped bring about provide enrichment to a standard boys with talent in mathematics, science covered in school and let gifted students said St. Katharine frequently provided Del., in 1896, and schools in Louisiana, a growing awareness of the need to curriculum that challenges students and music beginning in the fourth grade. discover new passions or delve into the financial support for Josephites to Texas, Alabama and Mississippi. combat all forms of racism through and helps them thrive. However, The initiative welcomed 53 budding favorite subjects like STEM, coding and purchase land needed in various parts of Louise Drexel Morell spent $59,000 education and social services,” the Black and Hispanic students are too scholars for the first Gifted Academy, a Louisiana Wetlands Ecology. the country to begin schools, churches to purchase property in Baltimore that pope said, according to a 2000 report often left out of these programs. two-week intensive program during the The program will continue to focus on and ministries for former slaves, freemen would become home to the Josephites’ by Catholic News Service. “Katharine Black students are 16.7 percent of the total summer of 2019. minority boys in grades 4-7 and will ensure and their descendants. Epiphany Apostolic College for young Drexel is an excellent example of that student population in the United States, The curriculum ensured that all that they receive the academic, emotional “Mother Drexel started schools, some- seminarians. practical charity and generous solidarity yet only 9.8 percent of the students in participants gain a greater appreciation and social skills necessary for success in times before there was a parish,” Father The Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament with the less fortunate which has long gifted programming are Black, according for academic, experiential and social their current middle school years as well Thompson said. “Then we sent a priest.” also provided teachers or funded lay been the distinguishing mark of Amer- to the U.S. Department of Education. learning in a Catholic environment. as in their high school years and beyond. Father Thompson noted that some of instructors to educate children in some ican Catholics.”

16 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •17 CAPTION ST. AUGs

Courtesy St. Augustine High School Students partici- pate in a summer learning camp organized by St. Augustine High School in New Orleans.

Lifting up African-American sainthood causes today Lange, who also co-founded St. Frances Educating students about the lives of By George P. Matysek Jr. Academy in Baltimore as the first Cath- Black heroes in the faith is an “integral s olic school for African Americans, other part” of the curriculum at St. Augustine, “Prayer is Sister Rita Michelle Proctor, OSP, is Black Catholics up for sainthood include: he said. integral to all still stunned that 190 years after Mother Venerable Father of “We talk about their lives,” he Mary Lange founded the Oblate Sisters Illinois, the first known African-Amer- explained, “and in November, during of this. You of Providence in Baltimore as the first ican priest; Venerable Henriette Delille, African-American Catholic History know, we religious community for women of Afri- founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family Month, we ask the kids to think about could do all the can descent, people still come up to her in New Orleans; Servant of God Julia it and tie it to Scripture.” and admit they didn’t realize there are Greeley, who served those in need in Students wear tee shirts with various printed media Black . Denver; Venerable Pierre Toussaint, who saints during a Black history program, and use all the It’s equally stunning, said the Oblate was known for his charitable outreach giving presentations on the men and technology in Sister of Providence, that many people in New York; and Servant of God Sister women represented. don’t know there are Black saints. ​, a Franciscan Sister of Josephite-affiliated institutions in the the world, but Augustus Tolton That’s what makes it so important Perpetual Adoration from Mississippi Archdiocese of New Orleans also partic- it is that prayer for those within the African-American who encouraged African-American ipate in the archdiocese’s annual Black to God that’s Henriette Delille community and beyond to lift up the Catholics to live their faith in a way that saints celebration that includes a Mass example of heroic men and women of embraces their Black heritage. and concert. most important color who lived their Catholic faith in Father Henry Davis, SSJ, pastor of Sister Rita Michelle’s religious commu- – to ask that ways that can inspire everyone to draw Corpus Christi-Epiphany Church in nity actively promotes Mother Lange’s closer to Christ, she said. New Orleans, said Josephites take a cause through the Mother Mary Lange he allow this to As part of its most recent five-year hands-on approach to raising awareness Guild. In addition to traditional lectures, happen.” pastoral action plan, the National Black about sainthood causes. It begins with presentations include dramatic portray- Sister Rita Michelle Catholic Congress identified educating their own daily prayer life, he said. als by an actress. others about Black sainthood causes and “We pray for them as Josephites in our “We promote her cause with prayer people across the world because that Africentric spirituality as one of its top prayer book in the same way we prayed cards that are distributed wherever we does have a bearing on the canoniza- priorities. for Mother Katharine Drexel (before go and wherever our members go,” Sister tion process,” Sister Rita Michelle said. It’s a goal Josephites are taking to heart she was canonized),” said Father Davis, Rita Michelle said, noting that a new “Prayer is integral to all of this. You as they raise awareness about models of who also prays regularly for book has just been published on the life know, we could do all the printed media sanctity within the Black community causes before or after Mass and makes of Mother Lange and that a documen- and use all the technology in the world, but it is that prayer to God that’s most Julia Greeley Mother Lange while also supporting distinctly Afri- sure they are included in the Prayers of tary may soon be in the works. Efforts can-American forms of worship and the Faithful. are also made in schools, parishes and important – to ask that he allow this to faith sharing. social media to document the life of happen.” “To have men and women canonized Mother Lange, she said. While there are many Black saints, within the Catholic Church is an affir- s “From Slave to Priest,” a multi-media including St. Augustine, St. Benedict mation of the goodness of my people,” “To have men live dramatic production, is making a the Moor, St. Martin de Porres and St. said Sister Rita Michelle, 20th superior and women national tour to raise awareness about Josephine Bakhita, there are currently no general of the Oblate Sisters of Provi- the life of Father Tolton. Actor Jim Cole- canonized African-American saints. dence. “It gives you a sense of belonging canonized man plays the part of the ground-break- Last year, the U.S. Conference of and a sense of pride – in a good way.” within the ing priest. Catholic Bishops voted during its general Last year, Dr. Reynold Verret, presi- Catholic Sister Rita Michelle said it is important assembly in Baltimore to advance the dent of Xavier University of Louisiana, to Mother Lange’s cause and the causes sainthood cause of Sister Thea Bowman, announced that his university and Church is an of other Black sainthood candidates that allowing an investigation into her life. its Institute for Black Catholic Stud- affirmation of their lives and works of faith be made In June, Pope Francis advanced the ies would become the center for the the goodness known to all people, not just African sainthood cause of Father Tolton, signing advancement of sainthood causes of Americans and not just Catholics. a decree recognizing that the former slave Thea Bowman African-American Catholics. of my people.” “We have come to realize how lived a life of heroic virtue, giving him Pierre Toussaint In addition to Servant of God Mother Sister Rita Michelle important the cause be known to all the title of Venerable.

18 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •19 JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION CONTINUING THE MISSION Captain who shipped slaves Called to be a Missionary ended life as friend of Josephites It was back in grade school that I first learned about missionaries, the missions and all that s By George P. Matysek Jr. pertained to the topic, such things as “pagan “Just as Jesus sent A maelstrom at sea almost support St. Charles College in babies” and how I could actually help “ransom” out his apostles cost Captain William Kennedy the Archdiocese of Baltimore, a pagan baby – to have him or her baptized and and disciples to go his life and his ship, but it may Mr. Kennedy donated $5,000 raised in the faith. have saved his soul. (the equivalent of $107,000 Our classroom, as did all the others in our out and take the It happened off the coast of today) to the Missionary Catholic school, would collect money every Good News to all Vera Cruz in 1833 when the College of Mill Hill in day for that effort. The money was our loose the world, each of Philadelphia-born mariner got London. change. We would watch with great excitement as the thermometer marker would increase and us must realize he is ►Courtesy Maryland Historical Society caught in a storm that violently That was a huge sum of Captain William Kennedy is shown tossed his Baltimore clipper money to help train future finally make it to the ultimate goal of $5.00 – the speaking to us also.” in an image from the Maryland ship. missionaries to former slaves amount needed to ransom a pagan baby. Historical Society. One of the anchors securing and freemen in the United It may seem corny now or even distasteful, but lands” if you will. There are also huge pockets of the “Wanderer” was lost to the States. Several of those back then THAT was what motivated us grade places in , South America, the Caribbean furious sea and Mr. Kennedy missionaries would later form school students to save our money – our pennies, and beyond that fall into this category. When Father Donald M. Fest, SSJ feared the second would suffer the same fate. the Baltimore-based Society of St. Joseph of the nickels and dimes – to put into that jar to support we were “ransoming” pagan babies back in the Mr. Kennedy made a solemn pledge: if God Sacred Heart – the Josephites – whose ministry to the missions and ransom a poor child so he or day, they were far away, now they are everywhere! would spare his life, he would build a church in African Americans continues today. she may be baptized and saved. Once one was What is most sad is that this condition of thanksgiving. The pledge to God may have been the spark to ransomed, we would start immediately to collect having no faith, or “losing the faith,” happens in Although the vessel was heavily battered, the conversion but Mr. Kennedy still had to undergo for the next baby. the homes of our neighbors, co-workers, friends second anchor held. The Wanderer and her captain more spiritual growth. This effort, this campaign if you will, made and even our relatives. survived. “There was a process of change,” said Mr. every person in that classroom aware of the Just as Jesus sent out his apostles and disciples ▼George P. Matysek Jr./The Josephite True to his promise, Mr. Kennedy raised the McCusker, managing director of the Irish Rail MISSIONS, of missionaries and of those who to go out and take the Good News to all the Harvest were being served in some far away mission land world, each of us must realize he is speaking to An anchor that survived the money to build the house of worship: St. Ann Workers Museum in Baltimore. “Somehow, he near-sinking of the “Wanderer” church in East Baltimore. changed from feeling that African Americans – and we were ABLE to help, we were “little us also. Those challenges, those words, those clipper ship during a 19th century Named after the patron saint of sailors, the were property to be bought and sold to feeling missionaries.” instructions are meant for us: “Let every ear that storm is displayed outside St. Ann With the close of so many Catholic schools can hear, hear; let every eye that can see, see!” Church in East Baltimore. church was dedicated in January 1874, a year that African Americans are people with souls that after Mr. Kennedy and his wife, Mary Ann, died. needed saving.” and with the Holy Childhood Association’s pagan There is work to be done! Their granddaughter, Agnes, was the first to be Mr. McCusker could find no document outlin- baby program being discontinued – our young Just as every parish needs catechists to teach our baptized there. ing the reasons for Mr. Kennedy’s donations to help people do not even think about, or worse, know young, every home needs someone to bring to it Luke McCusker, a Baltimore-based amateur Blacks. about, the great missionary effort taking place in God’s Word. Godparents, who vowed to help in historian who recently completed research on Mr. “All we know is what he was before and what our world today. Most of the adults of today, I the raising of their godchildren in the faith, must Kennedy, said that prior to the captain’s encounter he was at the end of his life,” said McCusker, dare say, don’t know of the work of the church get busy and be on the job they promised they with the near-fatal storm, he had transported cargo who holds a degree in history. “He was very throughout the world except for what they hear would do. Everyone of us must be encouraging, such as sugar and molasses. active in his parish of St. John the Evangelist (in every October on Mission Sunday – in which inviting, and constant in offering a hand and A year after surviving the storm, Mr. Kennedy Baltimore). I’m sure a lifetime as a committed they are asked to support financially and pray for helping in this effort of “Kingdom building.” captained a ship from New Orleans that contained churchman worked on his mind and heart toward daily the missionary efforts of the church. Why? Well the answer is simple. Just like the slaves. When Mr. McCusker examined the records a better viewpoint.” There are “mission” dioceses all over the children long ago helped in the missionary work more closely, he discovered that those aboard the Mr. Kennedy and his wife are buried beneath world – and in case you don’t know, there are of the church by giving their change – pennies, slave ship were Mr. Kennedy’s own “property.” The the center aisle at St. Ann, which is now part of even “mission” dioceses right here in the United nickels and dimes – everyone of us who have been captain sold his manifest on May 8, 1834. a Josephite-led pastorate with St. Francis Xavier States. And sadly, there are some places that were baptized have been commissioned by Christ into That’s what makes the contents of Mr. Kennedy’s and St. Wenceslaus in East Baltimore, all pastored once evangelized, catechized and thriving Cath- service and called to be a missionary by that very will particularly astounding. by Father Xavier Edet, SSJ. olic Christian communities which are no longer sacrament! In addition to leaving $50,000 (the equivalent And that anchor that survived the storm? such. They might be called “the unchurched” of $1 million today) to complete St. Ann, as well It’s prominently on display outside the church places in our cities and countryside – not over- Father Donald Fest, SSJ, is pastor of St. Joseph as funds to expand the archbishop’s residence and today. seas, but right near where we live, local “mission parish in Alexandria, Virginia.

20 • The Josephite Harvest • JOSEPHITE.ORG Autumn 2019 •21 Special Remembrances s The perpetual enrollment of a living or deceased loved one in the Josephite Society Josephite Perpetual Enrollments is a lasting commemoration. The person enrolled enjoys special remembrances Many thanks to all of our Sustaining Partners, in Masses for benefactors, said by all Josephites. Special Masses are said on every who together with loved ones, have been First Friday. Novenas of Masses are said in honor of St. Joseph and the Little $ For the Living and the Deceased $ Flower, for the Poor Souls and at Christmas. The offering ($10 for each person enrolled as Perpetual Members of the enrolled) is used for the education of future Josephite priests, for parishes and schools, and for corporal and spiritual works of mercy undertaken by the Josephites, benefiting them with prayerful daily Josephite Society. April, May, June 2019 remembrances by all Josephites. To enroll someone you love, use the form below or contact: 1200 Varnum Street N. E. Washington, DC 20017 1-844-249-5730 • www.josephites.org Adams, Henrietta Blanc Chretien, Marie Blanche Gillette Family Law Clerks of Supreme Court Police Officers of South Carolina Steinhart, Adam Adorers of SH of Montmarte Christ the King Priory Ginsburg, Ruth Bader Lebedeva, Katrina Prision Ministries Stevens, Amber Perpetual Enrollment Form Ahlers Family Cisse-Green Family Gonzales, Sydney Blue Lee, Ellen Proven Men Stone, Emma Aiello, Sydney Cohart, Carlos Taylor Gonzales, Tony Leyden, Vanessa Provenza, Salvator Stout, Edmond B. (Please print all information) Akinmurele Cohart, Paul Gorden Family Lim, Fernando Suica Quander-Rattley, Evelyn Strine, Leo Use the pre-addressed envelope in this magazine. Alcindor, Evelyn Cohen, James E. Gores Family Lippincott, Meg Sudwoj Family Alcindor, Jordan Collins, John J. 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Name: (1) Bezos, Jeff Dominican Nuns of Perp.Rosary High Family McDonald, Joseph Salamone, Alfonse Tyburn Convent Requested by: Bible Believers Fellowship Dominican Srs. Of St. Cecilia Hitchens, Robert F. McMaster Family Salamone, Anthony Unseen  Black Family Dooley, Jerry Hubenet, Millie Meester, Leighton Salamone, Concetta Upda, Natasha Individual Living $10 Borock Family Doyle, Michael Hunt, Gertrude L. Mendelsohn Family Salamone, Diane M. Upesleja, Michael  Individual Deceased $10 Bradley, Mary Elizabeth Dumas, Walton Hunt, Patricia A. Mercer, Dulce Maria Rosario L. Salamone, Donna Vaccarino Family  Family...... $50 Brantner, Mary A. Early, C. Eileen Jasinski, Dorothy Mercer, Michael Salamone, Joseph Verizon Employees Breyer, Stephen Eckrosh, Fred J. 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Please add Cannata, Jr., James Franciscan Monastery/Holy Land Kim, Sooyeon Nance Family of St. Joseph Williams, E. Irene $1.50 for each certificate you request to help cover Cannons, Annie Franciscan Srs. Perpetual Ador. Krieger, Sharon L. Nelson, Sara Sitko, Sandy Wilson, Howard (Family) handling and postage expenses. Additional requests Capaldi, Jr., Achille G. Frawley, IV, Michael (Family) Kuhn, CSSR, Bro., Thomas Newman, Fr., Jay S. Sitko, Sandy Woodward, David Caparas, Rosatio G. Gainsbury Family Kum, Talitha Nielsen Family Skou, Niels Yamoah, Aba may be submitted on a separate sheet of paper. Also Carmelite Srs. Of Sacred Heart Galvis Family Lancaster, Lenora Nunez, Marie Cousin Society of St. Vincent de Paul Yamoah, Aba you can: Carmelite Srs. Of Terre Haute Garcia-Ramos, Charlotte (Fam) Landazabal, Antonina L. Our Lady of Solitude Sotomary, Sonia Yestrumskas, Alexandra Ceremony, V.R. (Family) Lattimore, Jayden Srs. 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