VOLUME IX . ISSUE III THE AUGUSTINIAN

FRIAR REFLECTIONS FOR A NEW YEAR p. 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS

“Everything is grace, everything is gift.” THE AUGUSTINIAN . VOLUME IX . ISSUE III CONTENTS — MICHAEL F. DI GREGORIO, O.S.A.

SPECIAL DEVOTIONAL ISSUE

CARE OF THE SICK AND ELDERLY REFLECTIONS 4 FOR A NEW YEAR Many friars are lovingly cared for in the Saint Monastery. Thank you for the grace p. 4 FROM THE EDITOR January: Reliquary Calendar Altar Made and gift of home. of Saints for Each Day By: Michael F. Di Gregorio, O.S.A. Dear Friends, p This is our second devotional winter issue, repeated because of positive and . 7 February: Saint Blaise touching comments expressed after the release of last year’s stained-glass issue. By: David A. Cregan, O.S.A. FOREIGN MISSIONS Most memorable were letters received from a gentleman who requested and p. 8 distributed extra copies of the magazine…“the third went to a friend who was This Fund supports our ministries and our friars who serve March: Saint Joseph, Protector a and taught her entire adult life in institutions…I showed her the in and Japan. Thank you for the grace and gift of the Augustinian Order stained glass windows for each month and she asked me to stand up the Holy By: Peter G. Gori, O.S.A. to our foreign missions. Family stained glass window facing her on her window sill. She is in hospice and p. 11 is terminally ill.” His second letter, written two months later, said she had kept the April: Cross and Resurrection stained glass image on her window sill until her death. “You made her happy.” By: Luis A. Vera, O.S.A. The images used for this year’s devotional issue are original photographs p. 12 AUGUSTINIAN VOLUNTEERS of relics and reliquaries, each paired with a friar reflection. It’s interesting to note May: Saint Rita of that while the Church, via the in 1563, advocates the veneration By: Joseph A. Genito, O.S.A. Post-college graduates volunteer for a year of service in of relics and accepts their benefits bestowed on us, Saint Augustine was a strong p. 15 Peru and five domestic cities. Thank you for the grace and believer in their favors too. Consider an excerpt from Sermon 317, preached June: Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles gift that connect young people to service and community. by Augustine in the year 425 A.D. when Saint Stephen’s ashes arrived in : By: Robert J. Guessetto, O.S.A. The blessed martyr Stephen, the first after the apostles to be ordained by the apostles… p. 16 shed luster on those lands when he suffered, and now that he is dead has come to visit these lands. July: , Apostle to the Apostles Such a small quantity of dust has assembled such a big congregation here; the ashes can’t be seen; By: Richard G. Cannuli, O.S.A. the favors received are visibly evident. Imagine, dearly beloved, what God must be keeping for p. 19 VOCATION AND FORMATION us in the land of the living, if he grants us such favors from the dust of the dead…Let our hope August: Saint Augustinian formation programs include the Pre-, and expectation of receiving temporal benefits be such, that we may deserve, by imitating that faith, By: Donald X. Burt, O.S.A. (1929–2014) to receive eternal ones. Novitiate and House of Theology. Thank you for the grace p. 20 And so we send you our winter issue, with hope that each image and friar September: Saint Nicholas of Tolentine and gift to discern the Augustinian way of life. reflection will become a meaningful part of your year. –TEDDIE GALLAGHER By: Nicholas F. Martorano, O.S.A. p. 23 October: Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus

ON THE COVER: and Her Parents By: Francis J. Horn, O.S.A. JUSTICE AND PEACE Relic of Saint Augustine of Hippo. Cover photo IN EVERY ISSUE and relic photos (except for May) by Bryan Smith p. 24 Our Province Director of Justice and Peace, John E. Photo of the relic of Saint November: All Saints and Blesseds of Our Order Deegan, O.S.A., works for justice, so peace will follow. by Daniel J. McLaughlin, O.S.A. Columns By: Edward J. Enright, O.S.A. News and Notes 28 Thank you for the grace and gift to be a catalyst for peace. THE AUGUSTINIAN p. 27 A publication of the Province In Paradisum 31 December: The Holy Family of Saint Thomas of Villanova. Development 32 By: Joseph L. Narog, O.S.A.

CONTRIBUTE ONLINE AT AUGUSTINIANFUND.ORG OR USE THE ENVELOPE PROVIDED IN THIS ISSUE. THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 1 VOLUME IX . ISSUE III in FORMATION IN THE U.S. THE AUGUSTINIAN

WWW.AUGUSTINIANVOCATIONS.ORG Augustinian Vocations @OSAVocations SUPPORT VOCATIONS AT Teddie Gallagher WWW.LOSAGUSTINOS.ORG AUGUSTINIANFUND.ORG EDITOR Kitty Sheridan ASSOCIATE EDITOR 20nine LAYOUT AND DESIGN LETTER FROM THE

The Augustinian is a publication of the PROVINCIAL Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova. For queries, address changes and other SARFRAZ ALAM, 31 FR. JOSEPH BOBBY CARROLL, 22 ELIZANDRO COLE DRYDEN, 22 NELSON GARCIA, 24 SAM JOUTRAS, 22 Hyderabad, Pakistan BROUDOU, 51 , IL CONTRERAS, 35 Los Angeles, CA La Vega, Dominican Joliet, IL correspondence, contact: Omaha, NE La Vega, Dominican Republic Republic Editor PRE-NOVICES Dear Friends, Augustinian Provincial Offices Exactly 50 years ago, on November 21, 1964, Paul VI promulgated, in union with P.O. Box 340 Villanova, PA 19085-0340 the world’s gathered in for the , a document entitled Lumen Gentium, rendered in English, Light of the Nations. In official ecclesial language, the document PHONE 610-527-3330 FAX 610-520-0618 is known as the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, and sets forth Catholic teaching EMAIL [email protected] on fundamental aspects of the Church’s identity, structure, nature and purpose. WEB www.augustinian.org ATSUSHI DANIEL MADDEN, 25 JEFF RATHS, 21 JOSEPH DOMINIC SMITH, 37 STEPHEN SONON, 21 CHRISTOPHER KUWAHARA, 29 New Hope, PA Daviison, MI ROCCASALVA, 24 Riverside, CA South Riding, VA VAN NEWHOUSE, 24 Among the teachings put forward in Lumen Gentium is the concept of the Church as “the People , Japan Chicago, IL Swanton, OH of God on pilgrimage,” which, in the words of the document itself, “like a stranger in a foreign land, presses forward amid the persecutions of the world and the consolations of God, announcing AUGUSTINIANS the cross and death of the Lord until He comes.”(1,8) Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova For us Augustinians, the causes of our gratitude on this pilgrimage together are many as we look Michael F. Di Gregorio, O.S.A. back upon 2014. Some of these I shared with you in our last issue: in particular, the lives of friars PRIOR PROVINCIAL NOVICES who completed their journey in our midst. In the following pages of The Augustinian you will read Michael H. Bielecki, O.S.A. of yet another friar, Father John Payne, O.S.A., who was called home to the Father suddenly and SECRETARY JAVIER AGUILAR, 30 LUIS ASENCIO, 34 GERMAN MARK DIAMOND, 31 CARLOS JACK TIERNEY, 24 JIMMY WHITE, 24 unexpectedly in October. We give thanks, too, for our Provincial , the effects of which Francis J. Horn, O.S.A. Choluteca, Honduras Bronx, NY CASTRO, 44 , CA RODRIGUEZ, 32 Sun Prairie, WI Devon, PA Medellin, Columbia Bayamon, Puerto Rico are still unfolding; for the generous ministry and witness of our friars; and for the many friends TREASURER and associates who surround us and make our life possible. We give thanks, as well, for the new vocations the Lord has introduced to us and whose faces COUNSELORS you will come to know more and more. I ask you to pray for them as they grow in their experience Francis J. Doyle, O.S.A. of Augustinian life, and seek to know God’s will for themselves. Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A. Robert J. Murray, O.S.A. A special word of gratitude goes to , who has declared 2015 the Year of Consecrated Joseph L. Narog, O.S.A. Life, which holds special meaning for us Augustinians and for the many tens of thousands of men Robert P. Terranova, O.S.A. and women religious throughout the Church. The invitation of this year, while calling us to grow Luis A. Vera, O.S.A. ROBERT FR. BRIAN STEPHEN ISLEY, 27 BARNABY JOHNS, 40 BRYAN KERNS, 25 FUTOSHI MATSUO, 31 CARLOS MEDINA, 28 BAIOCCO, 42 BARKER, 54 Wichita, KS Worcestershire, , PA Fukuoka, Japan Barranquilla, in our particular vocation as consecrated men and women, will also afford us the opportunity Batavia, NY Chicago, IL Great Britain PROVINCIAL OFFICES to make our way of life better known to the wider Church. One of the ways we intend to do this Joanna Bowen is through this publication, which we hope, will bring us closer to our readers, and perhaps inspire DIRECTOR OF AUGUSTINIAN VOLUNTEERS some to consider the possibility of our way of life for themselves. In this year of special observance Jorge L. Cleto, O.S.A. ahead please pray for us friars and for new vocations. DIRECTOR OF HISPANIC VOCATIONS PROFESSED Once again this year we offer a series of reflections for the year ahead prepared by our friars for John E. Deegan, O.S.A. your consideration. We present, in word and image, the lives of some of the great men and women DIRECTOR OF JUSTICE AND PEACE RICHIE NICK MULLARKEY, 28 JOE MURRAY, 57 COLIN NARDONE, 23 NICHOLAS ALDO POTENCIO, 40 BIENVENIDO of faith whose stories continue to inspire and encourage us. MERCADO, 35 West Des Moines, IA Brooklyn, NY Williamsport, PA PORTER, 30 Iriga, Phillippines RODRIGUEZ, 50 Teddie Gallagher Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles, CA Ponce, Puerto Rico As we journey through the months to come, let us take consolation and inspiration from the great DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS treasury of the Church, and particularly from those men and women who are lights illuminating Thomas R. McCarthy, O.S.A. the path that we travel, so that we, too, may reach the final destination that is now their home. DIRECTOR OF VOCATIONS Our new Wishing you an abundance of God’s blessings, and the grateful awareness of them! Gary N. McCloskey, O.S.A. DIRECTOR OF AUGUSTINIAN FRIENDS Solemnly Professed In Augustine, James C. McMaster SENIOR FINANCIAL OFFICER JOE RUIZ, 40 JOE SIEGEL, 43 MAXIME PHILIP YANG, 34 FR. RICH YOUNG, 50 Austin, TX Urbana, IL VILLENEUVE, 27 Anaheim, CA New Lenox, IL John J. Sheridan, O.S.A. San Diego, CA Michael F. Di Gregorio, O.S.A. ARCHIVIST PRIOR PROVINCIAL PROVINCE OF SAINT THOMAS OF VILLANOVA

AUGUSTINIAN FRIARS CELEBRATE THE YEAR OF Remembering our past…Living our present with passion…Embracing the hope of our future.

2 . THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 JANUARY

RELIQUARY CALENDAR ALTAR MADE OF SAINTS FOR EACH DAY

Michael F. Di Gregorio, O.S.A. Prior Provincial, Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova

On a Friday afternoon in October, of this handiwork, of course, is the human I visited the National September 11 person, who among all creatures, not only Memorial Museum at the World Trade best reflects the nature and goodness Center site in . Among of God, but is the dwelling place of God’s the various media that are used own Spirit, and has been ennobled to communicate the Memorial’s message by the taking on of created flesh are artifacts, as small as glass shards, by God’s own Son. as large as fire engines, and even as Belief in the goodness, even sacredness, massive as the very foundation walls of the human body as the temple of the of the original Trade Center towers. Holy Spirit led the early Christians To visitors who pass in reverential quiet to find it fitting, and even comforting, before the displays, these mundane to celebrate the sacred Mysteries artifacts seem to take on a sacred of faith in the very place where the bodies character. Given the context in which of the martyrs were laid to rest. After they are exhibited, and the powerful and the period of severe persecution of the tragic story which they tell, common Church had ended, and she emerged FATHER DI GREGORIO GIVES THE FINAL BLESSING objects have become blessed relics, and from the catacombs to celebrate the faith AT THE OF THE 2014 CHAPTER. the setting in which they are displayed openly in public places, the custom has itself become hallowed ground. of offering Eucharist around the relics In Catholic and Orthodox tradition, of the martyrs continued, transformed some object used by the saint; and the as well as in some Eastern religions, now into the practice of placing fragments third, something touched to the body the word relic has a precise and special of martyrs’ bones—or, in time, those of a saint. meaning, and the very human experience of any saint—within the stone altars In the end, the veneration of relics related above helps to explain precisely upon which Mass was said. Relics came is a reminder, and a sign, that the life why this is so. That which is ordinary also to be preserved in vessels known of faith concerns every part of who we are: and common assumes a character that as reliquaries, for veneration by the faithful. body, mind and soul, for in creating evokes reverence when it is linked Reverence for the relics of holy persons us in every dimension of our being, to a person or event which merits has long been one expression of devotion “God saw that it was good” (Genesis 1). attention, respect and devotion. toward saints and blesseds, and satisfies May the memory of the many This connection, in turn, is rooted, for the human longing, so important in many saints who accompany us throughout Christians, in our belief in creation and cultures and traditions, for concrete the liturgical year encourage us in our in the very mystery of the Incarnation. expressions of faith and relationships. pilgrimage of faith, inviting us to In our faith tradition, God, who is all As the tradition of such veneration grew rediscover always the good that God good, is the creator of everything that over time, there developed a division has begun in us, and allowing him exists, and material things, therefore, of relics into categories or classes: the first to bring our good works to completion. participate in his goodness. The apex being the body of a saint; the second,

4 . THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 FEBRUARY

SAINT BLAISE

David A. Cregan, O.S.A. Department Chair, Associate Professor, Theatre Department

There is a wisdom that claims that have largely faded into history. the voice contains the sound of the soul. Throughout human history there has Perhaps this ancient awareness is at the been a continual universal call rising up root of why the faithful flock to churches for deeper meaning in life. In this age of and chapels on the Feast of Saint Blaise individuality, and its concurrent isolation, to have their throats blessed. While a we as a community of faithful disciples of healthy throat is essential for nourishing Jesus have a response to that cry. Through a healthy body, its more sacred task is our faith, our prayer, and our liturgy, our as a conduit of the praying voice lifting very lives are woven together to create a in words of gratitude, the singing voice link between one another and between soaring towards heaven through sacred Heaven and Earth. As a result of this psalms and hymns, and the joyful voice connection we are compelled to share the praising God in the assembly of believers. heavenly wisdom that we receive in prayer On this Feast, believers for centuries and common life with a world hungry FATHER CREGAN STANDS IN FRONT OF A RELIEF have witnessed to the fact that the for voices of faith and hope like ours. We OF THE MADONNA AND CHILD. human throat is a unique and sanctified must tell others what we have learned in instrument, linking health of mind and our conversations with God, a sentiment and martyred for his refusal to deny body; a perfect example of how our body fully practiced by Saint Blaise. Jesus. Perhaps when these candles are and soul are united and blessed through What are the potential fruits of placed on our throats and we pray to our discipleship with the Incarnate this blessing today? be delivered from every disease of the Word, Jesus Christ. The blessing of the throat reminds us throat and from every other illness, The words of the blessing of Saint that the voice of our soul has a truth to we might add our own prayer for a Blaise follow us down through the ages, speak, a truth from a life lived in pursuit of faith-filled voice of courage: that our acknowledging the intercessory power God. Our collective and individual voices, spiritually healthy voices might have of this third century saint, physician and blessed on this Feast, have the potential to some small contribution in creating a . Saint Blaise is ranked through join a heavenly litany this day to pray for world of healing, of peace and of hope the devotional practices of the Roman the courage to speak some of the wisdom in the promise of the coming of God’s Church as one of the Fourteen Holy of God we have gathered in faithfulness: Kingdom. People of faith and service Helpers, devoted to protecting believers To speak for compassion…To speak for like you and me are very important these against various diseases. While for generosity…To speak for the voiceless. days. Our voices join with Pope Francis hundreds of years Saint Blaise’s name To speak for acceptance…To speak for at this courageous time to bring into appears as one in this litany of the holy the frightened…To speak for humility. value all people, through compassion, healers, it is interesting to consider why To speak for forgiveness…To speak for generosity and hope. his name has remained so powerfully gratitude. Saint Blaise, pray for us. present in the spiritual consciousness and By using this voice of heaven, the voice the liturgical calendar while the others of his soul, Saint Blaise was imprisoned

THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 7 MARCH

SAINT JOSEPH, PROTECTOR OF THE AUGUSTINIAN ORDER

Peter G. Gori, O.S.A. , Saint Augustine , Andover, Mass.

Relics are definitely one of those of Jesus. The elements of that vocation special “Catholic things,” wouldn’t are indicated in the gospel accounts. you say? Objectively, it is not really all Right there we see what kind of man that strange. People go to great lengths Joseph was. He struggled to do the right to make and collect souvenirs from thing. At the same time, because of love historical figures, sports celebrities, and of Mary and wanting to do the right others. I guess it’s the body parts in thing, he was going to minimize the “first-class relics” of saints that can be harm to her and her child. We see Joseph considered over-the-top artifacts from displaying the virtue of compassion. another time and culture. Even in Saint Then Joseph had his dream. Augustine’s time, relics could be suspect Through the medium of the dream as to their authenticity. When I politely Joseph learned what Mary had already questioned my Augustinian Brothers learned, that this child was of God. about a relic in a street procession in Furthermore, the message to Joseph , they taught me a meaningful was not to fear and to take Mary Italian expression: “Se non e’ vero, as his wife. Joseph did so, thus displaying e’ ben trovato,” meaning, “If it’s not more virtues, namely courage and true, it should be.” generosity and faithfulness. FATHER GORI ON THE CAMPUS OF MERRIMACK In the case of the saints, these are With Mary, Joseph experienced the COLLEGE. people whose lives have displayed what fascinating events surrounding the birth the Church regards as “heroic virtue” of Jesus—the visits from the shepherds in human race, Jesus and his Mother, Mary. worthy of attention and imitation. Saint Bethlehem, who had been told by angels Saint Joseph is also recognized as the Joseph is certainly someone I have of the birth of Jesus, the long-awaited of a Happy Death. Some admired during my life and I have a lot Messiah. Joseph and Mary both could years ago an older priest surprised me of company in this. Catholics all over the identify with those who claimed to have by asking me why Saint Joseph was world love and admire Saint Joseph. He had visits from angels! Then there was associated with a “happy death.” is the declared Patron Saint of Austria, the visit from the three kings or Magi. (I thought every priest would know this!) , Bohemia, Canada, Mexico, With Mary, Joseph would ponder these I explained to him that tradition tells us Peru, and (South) Vietnam. He is revered experiences in his heart, learning to trust that Saint Joseph died at home, in his as the Universal Patron and Protector of in God’s plan more and more. That’s own bed, surrounded by Mary and Jesus. the Universal Church, Protector of the another virtue of his, trusting. In the end, whether we believe relics , Patron Saint Shortly after the birth of Jesus, Joseph of saints to be authentic or not, it’s of Fathers, Workers and Carpenters. had another dream in which he was not what is really important. What is Many religious communities have been warned that the baby was in great important is that we know the lives named after him. Everybody loves him! danger and they had to flee to Egypt. of saints, whose virtues provide timeless Joseph was chosen by God to be the In all of this he showed himself to be the inspiration for us all. husband of Mary and the foster-father protector of God’s greatest gifts to the

8 . THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 APRIL

CROSS AND RESURRECTION

Luis A. Vera, O.S.A. Prior, Saint Thomas Monastery, Villanova, Pa. Provincial Counselor

The Gospel of Saint Luke (LK 24: symbols of pain and torture, suffering 13–35), tells us that on that day of the and death, we are called to see the whole Resurrection Jesus appeared to two Paschal Mystery. When we contemplate disciples on their way to Emmaus. the Cross, the Column of Scourging Trying to elicit a conversation, Jesus and the Crown of Thorns we are also asked them what they were discussing. called to contemplate the birth, life and “Now that very day the two [disciples] Resurrection of the Lord. were going to a village seven miles from We must be able to see the whole life Jerusalem called Emmaus, and they were of Christ, a life that calls us to a new life. conversing about all the things that had In the midst of conflicts and divisions, occurred.” “What sort of things?” Jesus in the midst of illness and war, in the asks. They recounted what had happened midst of the many sufferings of a creation to Jesus of Nazareth; that he was handed that groans and awaits the Day of the over to a sentence of death and he had Lord, we are called to Resurrection. We been crucified. Jesus had been crowned are called out of darkness into God’s with a crown of thorns, taken to a wonderful light. As we contemplate the column to be scourged and had been different elements of Christ’s passion and crucified in between criminals. But the death, we move from the burning ashes disciples on the way to Emmaus still did of a Wednesday that call us to proclaim not understand that Jesus had risen and, Lenten fasting, prayer, repentance and although they were his disciples, they almsgiving—to the light and the glory of FATHER VERA DURING HIS HOMILY AT A MASS did not recognize that Jesus was the one Easter Alleluias on the way to Emmaus. IN SAINT THOMAS OF VILLANOVA CHURCH ON THE CAMPUS OF VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY. conversing with them on the road. And as Jesus took bread, said the As we look at the reliquary that blessing, broke the bread and gave it to contains the relics of the True Cross, the disciples, their eyes were opened and Resurrection, we live in that hope. Death the Column of Scourging and the they recognized him, but he vanished has no more power over us! We are Crown of Thorns, we might be like from their sight. He is risen! He lives invited to walk in the light of the birth, the disciples on the way to Emmaus: among us! Our hearts, like the hearts life, suffering, death and Resurrection unable to see the whole picture, slow to of the disciples on the way to Emmaus, of Christ. The Paschal Mystery! Alleluia! understand the great mystery before us. burn with the fire of Christ’s love! Our As we contemplate the different relics, eyes are opened and we recognize we might tend to see only the suffering, him in one another. Saint Augustine passion and death of Christ, but we says, “The Lord’s Resurrection is our must go beyond! In looking at these hope” (Sermon 261:1). As people of the

THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 11 M AY

SAINT RITA OF CASCIA

Joseph A. Genito, O.S.A. Pastor, Saint Rita of Cascia Parish and National Shrine, Philadelphia, Pa.

The National Shrine of Saint Rita after time she responded by accepting of Cascia offers opportunities for people the trials that came her way. From her not only to learn about this appealing youth, when she first wanted to join saint but also to experience, through the Augustinian convent but obediently symbols and art, a sense of physical accepted the marriage arranged by her proximity to her. Most powerful parents, through her old age as she was among them are her relics, a number burdened with the wound that gave her of which are displayed in the Shrine great pain, she believed that conforming for the faithful to reverence in various her will to God’s will would eventually ways, whether it be kneeling in prayer and ultimately bring her true happiness. before the main reliquary or kissing Saint Rita’s example gives hope to all and touching the relic offered at the those who acknowledge their suffering conclusion of the novena prayers. In before God and accept that, although every case, the power of the presence it may never be taken away, they will of the relic brings comfort to people be given the strength to bear it, as she whose stories parallel this saint. The did. However, there are reported cases faithful readily identify with Saint Rita, of miraculous healings from various because when we say the Novena, we afflictions, as well as accounts from learn that her experiences covered every couples who were told they could not FATHER GENITO, PICTURED AT SAINT RITA OF CASCIA SHRINE AND PARISH CHURCH. state of life. She was a wife and mother, have children but whose faith in Saint a widow and a nun. She endured tragedy Rita’s intercession helped them believe and grief at the murder of her husband and conceive. There are many women kiss it in the hope that Saint Rita will and the fatal illness of her sons. She bore named Rita who can attest to that fact. help them find a way to cope. The relic frustration at the denial of her requests Reverencing her relic is a tradition of Saint Rita, then, is a great testimony to join the convent three times. In the which generates peace in the hearts of to a remarkable woman whose life course of her religious life, she willingly those who identify with her. It brings proclaims that faith does indeed heal, accepted the suffering of the persistently them closer to her as a real and true both body and spirit. painful wound in her forehead. In short, model of how ordinary human beings Saint Rita of Cascia, she suffered in extraordinary ways, but bear up under sometimes crushing Advocate of those in need, also in ways that most people suffer. obstacles and seemingly overwhelming Pray for us. Throughout all these challenges and odds. Often, people will press the relic obstacles, she remained steadfast in faith, to their hearts, heads or other parts a hallmark of her exemplary life. Time of the body to beg for healing of their after time her faith was tested, and time infirmities. But more often, they simply

12 . THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 JUNE

SAINTS PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES

Robert J. Guessetto, O.S.A. Prior, Collegio Internazionale Santa Monica, Rome, Italy

I live across the street from the Basilica of unity in faith. It is a moment to ask for of Saint Peter. Whenever I look out, first courage to live that faith, daily. to the majestic columns and then into Today we honor Peter’s martyrdom, the massive square, my first thought is but curiously the first reading in Acts “how many people!” Once in the square, of the Apostles 12, 1–11 speaks of how it’s unmistakable—pilgrims from every Peter escaped martyrdom. He’s in prison, continent of the planet. That’s the point not in Rome, but in Jerusalem and is of it all, isn’t it? miraculously liberated from Herod’s The mission of our beloved Church, prison chains by an angel of the Lord. Peter’s and Paul’s mission, is to preach A manifestation of God’s power and the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. love…that his will for the Church For this, they came to Rome. This not be obstructed. That liberation great feast of Saints Peter and Paul, first strengthened Peter’s faith, so that years celebrated here, is all about preaching later, when he was a prisoner here in the Gospel, witnessing to Christ, Rome, he was prepared to give his life, facing opposition and persecution and knowing it to be a liberation in which the advancing the mission of the Church, our victory is God’s. How has the merciful,

Mother, our Family. Our Holy Father’s loving action of God, in our personal FATHER GUESSETTO, PICTURED IN FRONT OF SAINT PETER’S BASILICA WITH THE STATUE OF SAINT mission is that of Peter’s. In his own history, prepared us for the witness PAUL IN THE BACKGROUND. words at the 2014 Extraordinary we are asked to give today? on the Family, “…these days will be lived My years here in Rome have been with Peter and under Peter.” a gift. Here, I feel ‘tied’ to the Church. faith. Even in correction, his tone was The monumental grandness of the I rejoice in being a member of the respectful and gentle. They knew he Basilica is that of an awesome sacred Church, as here in Italy I feel ‘tied’ was part of them; he held them in his place to honor the tomb of the first of to the roots of the Order and rejoice heart and treasured that communion. the apostles who looked upon the face in being a friar. I understand why Augustine was so of Christ, who walked with Christ, was And Paul! Christ’s spokesperson, devoted to Paul and was his faithful instructed by Christ, loved by Christ. Christ’s voice; Paul writes and teaches disciple. Augustine’s call to fraternal Here, the privilege and duty of a with the heart of Christ. What eloquence life in community draws from this fount Christian pilgrim is to stand under the and wisdom there is in Paul. How Christ of Gospel wisdom. soaring cupola, before the lanterns of the loved and knew him and entrusted to Saints Peter and Paul, pray for us. confession, look down upon the tomb him the incredible mission of making and make a heart-felt profession his Gospel sing! of faith: in the Trinity, in the Gospel, Paul’s relationship to his communities in the Church, all at the resting place was tender. He was amazed by and of this Apostle, the eminent symbol thankful for their goodness and their

THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 15 JULY

MARY MAGDALENE, APOSTLE TO THE APOSTLES

Richard G. Cannuli, O.S.A. Faculty Member; Curator and Director of the University Art Collection of Villanova University, Villanova, Pa.

Like a garment woven with gold to Christ’s resurrection. Her witness, her thread, which has been patched with presence at the tomb—not repentance, baser materials, like linen and cotton, not sexual renunciation—is Mary’s we have to remove the baser threads greatest claim. Unlike the men, who in order to see the original garment, scattered and ran, who lost faith made of gold. Such is Mary Magdalene’s and betrayed Christ, the women stayed story­—one fused with others’ stories and chief among them was Mary in the Bible, whose true image needs Magdalene. John’s Gospel (Ch.20) to be restored. addresses this poignantly: There are many women in the Gospels It was very early on the first day of the week with the name “Mary.” Foremost is and still dark, when Mary of Magdala came Mary, Mother of Jesus Christ. Then to the tomb. She saw that the stone had been there is Mary of Bethany, sister of moved away from the tomb and came running Martha and Lazarus; Mary, mother to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one ARTIST AND ICONOGRAPHER FATHER CANNULI of James and Joseph; and Mary, wife Jesus loved: ‘They have taken the Lord out IS PICTURED WEARING HIS HANDMADE VESTMENT of Cleopas. There are three unnamed of the tomb,’ she said, ‘and we don’t know USED AS A BACKDROP FOR THE MARY MAGDALENE RELIC. women expressly identified as sexual where they have put him.’ sinners—the woman who wipes Christ’s Peter and the others rushed feet with ointment; a Samaritan woman, to the tomb to see for themselves, she is the greatest female saint after whom Christ meets at the well; and an then dispersed again. Mary, the mother of Jesus. Her great adulteress, whom the Pharisees drag Meanwhile, Mary stayed outside near the gift is that she was the first one Jesus before Christ for condemnation. Mary tomb, weeping. Then, still weeping, she stooped appeared to after the resurrection. Magdalene generally becomes mixed to look inside and saw two angels…They said, He entrusted her to go to his disciples up with the three nameless repenting ‘Woman, why are you weeping?’ ‘They have announcing the great joy of the women, but none of these women are taken my Lord away,’ she replied, ‘and I don’t resurrection. In the traditions of the Saint Mary Magdalene. know where they have put him.’ As she said this, Eastern Rite of the , So who is Mary Magdalene? This she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, Jesus appeared to his mother first, then “Mary” is expressly identified as one although she did not recognize him…Jesus said, to Mary Magdalene, she who never of the women at the foot of the cross, ‘Mary!’ She knew him then and said to him in departed from Jesus’s side from the time who refused to leave Christ, which is why Hebrew, ‘Rabbouni!’ which means Master… of Jesus’s public ministry to his passion, her courage and faithfulness are thought So Mary of Magdala went and told the disciples death and resurrection. Mary Magdalene to be her most important attributes. that she had seen the Lord and that he had said is a study in faithfulness. Through her All four Gospels explicitly place Mary these things to her. intercession and example, we may also Magdalene at the tomb. In John’s So what is the legacy of Mary proclaim the resurrected Christ when Gospel, she is the first overt witness Magdalene? In my estimation, he comes at the end of time.

16 . THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 AUGUST

SAINT AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO

Donald X. Burt, O.S.A. (1929–2014) Former Professor at Villanova University, Merimack College and Biscayne College

EXCERPT FROM FATHER BURT’S 2006 REFLECTION: “AUGUSTINE ON THE NATURE AND SEARCH FOR PEACE”

Importance and Conditions of Peace will be free of all strife (Commentary on Peace is one of the central concepts the Gospel of John, 104,1). When peace is in Augustine’s thought. The word pax the primary object of a person’s love in in one of its various forms appears more this life, greed is conquered and jealousy than 2500 times in Augustine’s writings. disappears (Commentary on the Epistle to The reasons for this emphasis are evident. the Galatians, 52). This happens because The driving force of all human action is peace is the one good that can be shared the desire for happiness and no one can with many without diminishing one’s own be happy without peace. There is nothing portion (Sermon 357, 1). For a person to that we talk about, so fervently desire, have perfect peace there must be internal so welcome when achieved, in a word, and external harmony. The body must so good as peace (City of God, 19,11). have an ordered balance among its parts; The goal of every human is to find peace the soul, an ordered satisfaction of its but the way to achieve it is difficult. Peace appetites. The sensitive appetites must depends on a good will, a will that is seek neither too much, nor too little FATHER BURT, WHO DIED ON APRIL 11, 2014, driven by an ordered love, and in their of those material things necessary for GENEROUSLY SHARED THE FRUIT OF HIS STUDY AND MEDITATION WITH OTHERS THROUGH HIS WRITINGS. present circumstances humans find such sustaining physical life. The intellectual love hard to maintain. (Commentary on appetites must reflect a correspondence Some Propositions from the Letter to the Romans, between desire and moral values. society, will be realized at the end of time 13-18; Commentary on Psalm 121, 12). A person’s internal peace depends on when humans and angels will rejoice Although in his earlier years Augustine good order between body and soul and in God and rejoice in each other because seemed to believe in the will’s unaided health in the living whole. Peace between of God (City of God, 19,13,1). power to choose the good, he later humans comes with an orderly friendship became more and more convinced that or “oneness of heart” (concordia). Peace in the ability to choose rightly and love well the family comes when such friendship is was dependent on the grace of God. He reflected in a harmonious arrangement thus concluded that peace is truly a gift of of authority and obedience among those God more than a human accomplishment who live together. Peace, among citizens (City of God, 15,4). If humans accept that living in political community, rests on gift fully, it consoles and strengthens them a harmony between rulers and those in the midst of the pressures of life now ruled. Finally, the peace of the heavenly and insures that their life after death city, that most ordered and harmonious

THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 19 SEPTEMBER

SAINT NICHOLAS OF TOLENTINE

Nicholas F. Martorano, O.S.A. Pastor, Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, Philadelphia, Pa.

Nicholas Gurrutti, Saint Nicholas many people approached Nicholas for of Tolentine, was born in 1245 in Masses and prayers for their deceased Sant’Angelo, Pontano, Italy. He was relatives and friends. Nicholas embraced named after Saint Nicholas of Myra and engaged in the Corporal Works at Bari, as his parents, Amata and of Mercy that permitted Jesus to come Compagnonus de Gurrutti, childless at alive through him. the time, had made a pilgrimage to his But what is it that differentiates Saint shrine and prayed for his intercession Nicholas from other saints who lived for a child. At a young age, impressed the same virtues? It is his unique and by the preaching of Reginaldo de special calling to help the Holy Souls Monterubbiano, the prior of the in Purgatory. He made it his mission to Augustinian monastery at Sant’Angelo, offer Mass, do , pray and fast Nicholas asked for admission to the for them so that the Holy Souls could community and made his novitiate in quickly enter their heavenly home. 1261. Ordained in 1271, Nicholas of Saint Nicholas died on September Tolentine was devoted to prayer and 10, 1305. In 1446, he was canonized by FATHER MARTORANO IS SHOWN HERE AT THE OUTDOOR MASS FOR THE OPENING OF SAINT works of penance, especially fasting. Pope Eugene IV, the first Augustinian NICHOLAS OF TOLENTINE ITALIAN FESTIVAL AND PROCESSION OF SAINTS, HELD ON THE Weakened during one fast, in a vision friar to be named a saint. His body is FIRST SUNDAY IN OCTOBER. Mary and the child Jesus directed venerated in the basilica at Tolentino him to eat bread signed with a cross. and his feast is celebrated on September He was strengthened and the custom 10. In 1884, Pope Leo XIII named him once a week to emphasize and encourage of distributing “The Bread of Saint patron of the Holy Souls in Purgatory. us to remember in prayer and Masses Nicholas” ensued. In 1275 he was sent Churches have been named for him those who have died. So we pray: to Tolentino and remained there for the in Rome, Venice, the , “Saint Nicholas, you were so attentive rest of his life. Atlantic City, New Jersey; the to the pleas of many needy souls and Nicholas devoted himself to prayer Bronx, New York and Philadelphia, through your prayer and penance you and fasting. At another time he had a . Tolentine Hall, on the hastened their enjoyment of the vision vision of a deceased friar, Fra Pellegrino campus of Villanova University was of God. Look with compassion on our of Osimo, who told Nicholas he was in named for Saint Nicholas and houses beloved dead, especially ______, and Purgatory, with other souls needing his classrooms, as well as the Office of obtain for them by your prayers the full intercession to relieve their suffering. For the University President. forgiveness of their sins so that they may seven days, Nicholas offered Mass for the Saint Nicholas and his special ministry experience the happiness and peace souls in Purgatory. He again had a vision to the Holy Souls in Purgatory continues of the Father’s presence.” in which the friar related to him how here at Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Saint Nicholas of Tolentine, pray for us! many souls were in heaven due to his Church in South Philadelphia, where action. After this incident became known, a Mass for the Souls in Purgatory is held

20 . THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 OCTOBER

SAINT THÉRÈSE OF THE CHILD JESUS AND HER PARENTS

Francis J. Horn, O.S.A. Treasurer, Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova

Thérèse Martin was born in Alençon, and the writings of others, she has had , on January 2, 1873. She entered a profound influence on many more. the Carmelite Monastery at Along with Saint , she Lisieux when she was fifteen years old is the co-patron of the missions, and with and took the name Sister Thérèse of the Saint Joan of Arc, the co-patroness of Child Jesus. Later she became known as France. As the Little Flower, she is also the Little Flower because she referred patroness of florists. to herself as a little, not particularly Louis and Zélie Martin, the parents important, flower in God’s garden. In of Thérèse, were beatified in 2008. They her writings, she described the basis of became the first parents of a saint to be her spirituality as “the confidence of beatified and only the second spouses in the little child who sleeps without fear the history of the Church to be proposed in its father’s arms.” Her spirituality is for sainthood as a couple. But Zélie and described as the “little way,” marked Louis were not declared blessed because by simplicity, humility, confidence, love of Thérèse; she became a saint because of others, and a total abandonment to of them and their loving example. God’s merciful love. Zélie and Louis are an inspiration to In 1896, Thérèse contracted families of today. When they married, tuberculosis and suffered much for both were successful small business FATHER HORN BAPTIZES CILLIAN JOSEPH CUSICK, WITH MOM, MARY ROSE, DAD, KEVIN AND CILLIAN’S a year and a half. She died on September owners who continued with their careers BROTHER CAVAN WITNESSING THE JOYFUL EVENT. 30, 1897, at the young age of 24. while raising a large family. They had After her death, she gained tremendous nine children, four of whom died in popularity from the publication of her their early years. Zélie died of breast in the many difficulties that they faced. autobiography, Story of a Soul. In 1925, cancer at the age of 47, leaving her In recognizing them as a Blessed couple, Saint Thérèse was canonized by Pope husband a single parent to raise five the Church points to the mystery of the Pius XI. In October of 1997, Pope minor daughters. Later in life, Louis vocation of marriage. Their story speaks John Paul II declared her a Doctor suffered a stroke and spent three years to us today because they teach us how of the Church. in a psychiatric hospital. The couple and where to find God’s love and how In her short life, Thérèse came faced life’s challenges with a strong to respond to that love with our own. in direct contact with relatively few faith in God, which they passed on to people—she was a cloistered nun! But their children (five daughters eventually through her prayer and her suffering, entered religious life). which she offered up for others, she They found holiness in their touched the lives of many. As her life day-to-day living, drawing strength became known through her own writings from God and supporting one another

THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 23 NOVEMBER

ALL SAINTS AND BLESSEDS OF OUR ORDER

Edward J. Enright, O.S.A. Associate Professor of Religious and Theological Studies, , North Andover, Mass.

The eyes of the human are thought both his historical lifetime, and also the to be windows into the soul of each historical lifetime of his closest disciples. person. Icons are venerated as windows The saints in life and in death, through into the transcendent. Relics, either their relics, make the Communion of the material remains of an individual Saints concrete. The Church suffering saint or an object that has been in and the Church struggling are helped by contact with his or her body, become the Church triumphant to grow closer a means by which the transcendent to one another in ways not otherwise enters intimately into the immanent, available, except in the , the making the transcendent accessible actions of Christ and his Body. Since FATHER ENRIGHT IN A PHOTO TAKEN ON THE for veneration. When God decided to natural creation and human bodiliness CAMPUS OF MERRIMACK COLLEGE. enter into human history through the are so integral to the making present of incarnation of his Son, he decided that it Christ’s seven ministries, the bodilessness would always be the way he would relate of the saints, while not being sacraments, of Cascia, , Nicholas of to the human and the natural. Thus are sacramental in that they become Tolentine, and Thomas of Villanova, but the saints, men and women who grew further means by which Christ can in that we treasure our communion with all in holiness, that is, journeyed toward carry out his ministries, especially to Augustinians down through the centuries union with God, by their imitation of those marginalized by poverty, hunger, and right up until today, having the relics Christ, became a means during their homelessness and sickness, both of these individual saints puts us in contact lifetime to continue in human bodiliness physical and mental. with all of our holy brothers and sisters the experience of Godliness, first made While we Augustinians celebrate many who reside in the Church triumphant and available by Jesus the Christ, fully human of our saints and blesseds individually or who thus make available to us the many and fully God. Once having entered in special groupings, we also celebrate all ministries of Christ embodied in all of our into eternal life, their relics became a of our saints and blesseds on November saints and blesseds, both while they were tangible means by which not only they 13 each year, the birthday of our holy alive and by means of their relics after their remained connected with us, but their father, Augustine of Hippo. In all deaths. Let us give thanks to God, Father, Lord and our Lord continued to be in likelihood, the relics we have available Son and Holy Spirit, that the Order of touch with us in our various needs, as to us are ones connected with the Saint Augustine has been gifted with so he had been in touch with us during most famous of our saints like Rita many of Christ’s disciples.

PICTURED: SOME SAINTS AND BLESSEDS OF THE ORDER CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ST. AUGUSTINE AND ST. MONICA; BL. CHERUBIM; BL. STEPHEN BELLESINI; BL. CLEMENTIS FUHL; BL. MARIE CATHERINE OF ST. AUGUSTINE; ST. THOMAS OF VILLANOVA. CENTER RELIQUARY: TOP: BL. ANTHONY DELLA TORRE. 2ND ROW: ST. JOHN OF SAHAGÚN; BL. CHRISTINE OF S. CROCE; BL. ELÍAS DEL SOCORRO NIEVES. 3RD ROW: MARTYRS OF JAPAN; BL. ALFONSO DE OROZCO; BL. FREDERICK OF ; VEN MENOCHIO. 4TH ROW: ST. EZEKIEL MORENO; ST. CLARE OF MONTEFALCO. 5TH ROW: BL. ANGELO OF FURCI; BL. ANSELMI POLANCO

24 . THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 DECEMBER

THE HOLY FAMILY

Joseph L. Narog, O.S.A. Pastor, Saint Thomas of Villanova Parish, Rosemont, Pa.; Provincial Counselor

On the Feast of the Holy Family, we We call this family “Holy” not because are reminded that family always is a work their life was perfect and without in progress. Just like those three dreaded challenges, but because they remind us words that probably come with more than of our own call to holiness, through the a few Christmas presents—“batteries not good times and the bad. Jesus, Mary included” or “some assembly required,” and Joseph provide a real and profound we need to invest our energy in and to model of what it means to trust in God work at building up our families. and in one another, echoed in the story Love and relationships require effort. of Hannah and her son Samuel in this They bring a responsibility: caring for, Feast’s First Reading (1 Samuel 1:20-22, honoring, and being respectful of one 24-28) and in the Second Reading another—despite generational differences, (1 John 3:1-2, 21-24), where John assures even as bodies and minds fail, even on us that “We are God’s children,” part those days we would rather take the gold, of Jesus the Christ’s extended family. frankincense, and myrrh and run! We So let us consider if there is a might be tempted to believe that such relationship that requires more energy a thought never would cross the minds on our part. Is there a family member of Joseph and Mary. We may think that we have been taking for granted? Like Jesus and they went through life easily, Hannah, do we dedicate our families with hardly any problems. Many times to the Lord? Just as Luke’s Gospel FATHER NAROG POSES WITH HOLLY BERRY AND we tend to place the Holy Family on a (Luke 2:41-52) tells us, “Jesus advanced HER DAUGHTER ANNABEL, TO HIS RIGHT, AND TRACY HILDEBRAND AND HER GODSON WILLIAM pedestal, far removed from our human in wisdom and age and favor,” so too CARICKHOFF, TO HIS LEFT, AFTER OFFICIAT- reality, as though the angels washed the we can ask that he work in and through ING AT THE BAPTISM, HELD IN SAINT THOMAS OF VILLANOVA CHURCH, ON THE CAMPUS OF dishes for them. us, helping us build up our relationships, VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY. Yet this year’s Gospel for the Feast our families—piece by piece. Is it a shows otherwise. The twelve-year-old mere coincidence that Jesus returned to Jesus decides to stay behind in the Temple Nazareth with Mary and Joseph, taking Mom started every long trip by saying, in Jerusalem, without telling his parents. another eighteen years for his public “Jesus, Mary and Joseph be with us on Joseph and Mary become worried sick, ministry to commence? It is likely that our way.” If we think about it, there is looking for Jesus for three days. Imagine he recognized, as well, that in life there some real wisdom in that little prayer. the tone in Mary’s voice when they find always is “some assembly required.” The Holy Family understands; they him—“Son, why have you done this to The fact is that even the best of have been there. us? Your father and I have been looking families have at least some “anxiety,” for you with great anxiety.” Sound something that requires attention and familiar? Sound quite human? prayer. When I was growing up, my

THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 27 NEWS AND NOTES

NEWS AND NOTES

FROM THE PROVINCE OF SAINT THOMAS OF VILLANOVA AND THE AUGUSTINIAN ORDER

BISHOP-ELECT DONATUS AIHMIOSION OGUN.

Augustinian Named Bishop PRE-NOVICE ATSUSHI KUWAHARA, WHO JOINED THE AUGUSTINIAN FORMATION PROGRAM THROUGH OUR in VICARIATE IN JAPAN, SPENT AN AFTERNOON WITH JOHN F. MCATEE, O.S.A., WHO SERVED A TOTAL OF 26 YEARS On November 6, 2014, Donatus IN ALL FOUR OF OUR MISSIONS IN , , FUKUOKO AND TOKYO. FATHER JOHN IS A FRATERNAL Aihmiosion Ogun, O.S.A., of the Province CONNECTION TO HOME FOR ATSUSHI, WHO IS PART OF of Nigeria, was named Bishop of the THE BLESSED STEPHEN BELLESINI PRE-NOVITIATE COMMUNITY IN ARDMORE, PA., STUDYING ENGLISH FAR Diocese of Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, by FROM HIS HOME BASE IN FUKUOKA JAPAN. Pope Francis. Bishop-Elect Ogun was born on October 12, 1966, in Sapele, the then Mid-Western State, Nigeria. He entered A New Book by Richard G. the Province’s novitiate in Jos in 1988 and Cannuli, O.S.A. professed first vows on August 28, 1989. Approaching The Divine—a Primer of He pursued his theological studies at Saint Iconography is a collection of original icons Augustine Major Seminary (1989–1993), “written” by Father Cannuli, a Villanova professed solemn vows on August 28, 1992, University Professor and Director and and was ordained to the priesthood on July MEMBERS OF THE PRESS SURROUND BISHOP-ELECT PREVOST FOLLOWING HIS INSTALLATION AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE DIOCESE OF CHICLAYO, PERU. Curator of the University’s Art Collection. 31, 1993. He was assigned to Our Lady of Due out in December, it is published Good Counsel , Iwaro Oka-Akoko by Hope and Life Press. Former Prior General of the James Patrick Green, who is returned to Trujillo, Peru, in 1988, (1993–1996). He then went to Rome to a Philadelphian, a Villanova University to initiate the first common formation HTTP://WWW.HOPEANDLIFEPRESS.COM Order of Saint Augustine, Collegio Santa Monica (1996–1998), and FATHER STACK IS PICTURED WITH HIS graduate and cousin of our house among the Augustinian Vicariates then to Saint Patrick’s Friary (1998–2000), HALL OF FAME PLAQUE. Robert Francis Prevost, of the Order, Joseph L. Farrell, O.S.A. of Chulucanas, Iquitos and Apurimac. and completed studies in Law, first O.S.A., Named Bishop of the Bishop-Elect Prevost is set to be ordained In this community, in service to the the Licentiate and then the Doctorate, at the Monsignor Bonner Honors a bishop by the Apostolic Nuncio on pre-novices and the professed, he occupied Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru Gregorian University. In 2001, Bishop-Elect December 12, 2014. Chiclayo, the fourth the post of Prior (1988–1992), Formation Ogun returned to Nigeria to the Parish of John P. Stack, O.S.A. On November most populous city in Peru, is located Director (1988–1999), Master of Professed Our Lady of Lourdes, Surulere. From 2002 John P. Stack, O.S.A., Bonner Class 3, 2014, Robert halfway between the less economically (1993–1998), and parish priest of the to the present, he has been the Master of of ’65, was inducted into the Monsignor Francis Prevost, developed Augustinian mission areas of Parish of Saint Mary of Monserrat. Professed, the Episcopal Vicar for Religious Bonner High School Hall of Fame at O.S.A., former Chulucanas and Trujillo, where Father In the Archdiocese of Trujillo, Bishop-Elect in the Diocese of Warri and Master of its 2014 Gala Awards Program, held on Prior General Prevost served for over twelve years. During Prevost, who has been a member of the Students in formation. The date for Father’s October 18, 2014, in Drexel Hill, Pa. of the Order those years, from 1985 he was sent to the Canon Law Society of America since 1985, episcopal and installation Included in all the tributes to Father Stack (2001–2013), was Vicariate of Chulucanas, Peru, and was worked as Judicial Vicar (1991–1998) and is January 31, 2015. was a tweet from Villanova’s basketball named Apostolic appointed Chancellor of the Prelature. He as Director of Studies at the Seminary coach, Jay Wright: “Congrats to Fr. John Administrator returned to the United States in 1987, but San Carlo y San Marcelo. Stack on his induction into the Monsignor and Bishop for GET THE AUGUSTINIAN DELIVERED JOHN T. LYDON, O.S.A., ONE Bonner Hall of Fame. A well deserved OF OUR IN the diocese of TO YOUR HOME! Honor!! #NovaNation.” Father Stack, a PERU, TRAVELLED FROM Chiclayo, Peru, To receive The Augustinian by mail, former Theology teacher and chaplain CHULUCANAS TO ATTEND please e-mail your address to us at Stay on top of news and events FATHER PREVOST’S by Pope Francis. at Bonner, is currently vice president for [email protected] INSTALLATION. He replaces from the Augustinian world— or write to: student life at Villanova University. Bishop emeritus Jesús Moliné Labarta, The Augustinian sign up for Augustinian eNews who was Bishop of Chiclayo for 17 P.O. Box 340 www augustinian org years. Bishop-Elect Prevost was installed Villanova, PA 19085 at . . . as the Administrator of the diocese There is no charge for subscribing. by the Apostolic Nuncio of Peru, BISHOP-ELECT PREVOST WAS INSTALLED BY APOSTOLIC NUNCIO OF PERU, ARCHBISHOP JAMES GREEN (SEATED RIGHT).

28 . THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 29 THE YEAR OF

CONSECRATED LIFE IN PARADISUM HAS BEGUN! John Francis Ricard, S.S.J., at Saint Augustine Parish, access to opportunities for advancement. known as the Mother Church of African As the chancellor of Washington’s public Thornton Americans and founded by former slaves schools stated, “[Father Payne] had an IN NOVEMBER 2013, Pope Francis Christ…but those who are called made special note that “the profession Payne and free people of color, in Washington, abundance of faith in his students, showed proclaimed the Year of Consecrated to a consecrated life have a special of (vows) makes BORN: 6/27/1961 D.C. At this time he had already been them love every single day, and set an Life to be celebrated in honor of Men experience of the light which shines forth them a kind of sign and prophetic FIRST PROFESSION: assisting in ministry at Saint Augustine and example that created a welcoming and and women in Religious Orders and from the Incarnate Word…The church statement for the community.” 8/4/1984 he remained there as associate pastor until thriving school community.” Father Payne Congregations, Secular Institutes, entrusts to communities of consecrated Pope Francis announced the Year of ORDAINED: 1996. In this capacity he was responsible exemplified Augustinian values of Unitas, 11/18/1989 Societies of Apostolic Life and new life the particular task of spreading Consecrated Life at a meeting of the for the enhancement of the internationally Veritas, Caritas, (Unity, Truth and Love) DIED: 10/9/2014 forms of consecrated life. It started on the spirituality of communion.” The Union of Superiors General of Religious known music and liturgical traditions of the and thousands reflected his impact November 30, 2014 and will end on document also included “all those Orders and had a special message for John Francis Thornton Payne was born parish, and co-wrote several music pieces upon them as they joyfully mourned February 2, 2016. individuals who, in their inmost hearts, the formation of religious members: on June 27, 1961, in Washington, D.C., the with the renowned musician and songwriter a true spiritual leader. The proclamation of a 14-month dedicate themselves to God by “Develop a tender heart.” son of Ellis Augustine Payne and Gloria Leon C. Roberts. A public wake was held on Sunday, celebration of those who devote a special consecration.” The Prior General of the Order of Bernice Thornton. The youngest of their In 1995, Fr. John became Director of the October 19, 2014, at Saint Augustine themselves to God expands on the Saint John Paul II chose February 2, Saint Augustine, Alejandro Moral Antón, five children, he was baptized on August “He Rose Project” at the Duke Ellington Church in Washington D.C. Father John’s World Day of Consecrated Life, a The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord O.S.A. addressed the Sisters and Brothers 1, 1965, at Holy Redeemer Church in School of the Arts. He helped to increase funeral Mass was celebrated at the National day of Thanksgiving for the gift of in the Temple to be the World Day of of the Order in a letter where he quoted Washington. He began his education at scholarship opportunities for young men Shrine of the , in Abram Simon Elementary School. After consecrated life, begun in 1997 by Saint Consecrated Life, as it is considered the Saint Augustine when he expressed of color and worked to raise college Washington, D.C., on Monday, October completing the sixth grade he went on to John Paul II, following the 1994 Synod backdrop of the first encounter of Christ objectives to keep in mind for this special acceptance rates. He also developed the 20, 2014, with 4,000 people in attendance. Assumption and graduated on Consecrated Life and its role in the with his people, Simeon and Anna, who year: “To give thanks to the God who “Ennis Cosby Learning Center” for parents A memorial Mass was celebrated at the from Archbishop John Carroll High School Church and the world. were called there by the Holy Spirit. is the giver of all good things (Rule VII, and students, with a focus on introspection, church of Saint Thomas of Villanova on in 1979. The following year he entered The 1996 Post-Synodal Exhortation Saint John Paul II wrote: “Consecrated 49), to take on the future as people who empowerment and concrete goal setting. Friday, October 24, 2014. The celebrant the formation program of the Augustinian In 2000, Fr. John was named Dean of of both Masses was Father Michael Di Vita Consecrata, described Consecrated persons live ‘for God’ and ‘from God’ are blessed and happy in hope (The City Friars and attended Villanova University, Life as being “deeply rooted in the and precisely for this reason they are of God XIX, 4, 5) and to live the present Students at the Duke Ellington School of Gregorio, O.S.A., Prior Provincial. Fr. from which he received his B.A. degree in the Arts, and in 2007 Director of Student Payne is buried in the Augustinian Plot example of Christ the Lord…a gift of able to bear witness to the reconciling time with passion and with openness English. He was received into the Order of Affairs. In 2014, the Board of Directors at Calvary Cemetery, Conshocken, Pa. God the Father to his Church through power of grace.” to the Spirit, ‘holding on to love, loving Saint Augustine as a novice on August 16, appointed him Head of School, with an the Holy Spirit.” The document also For the Augustinian Friars, Sisters truth, desiring unity’” (Sermon 267, 4). 1983 and made his first profession of vows effective date of August 1, 2014. After a describes the call to a consecrated and , who take vows of Poverty, on August 4, 1984 as a member of the few short months in this latest position, Fr. life: “All are called equally to follow Chastity and Obedience, Vita Consecrata Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova. John collapsed on Thursday, October 9, of SHARE YOUR OWN From 1984–1987, Fr. John attended the an apparent heart attack, at the school. REFLECTION ON THIS FRIAR Washington Theological Union and earned ABOVE: THE 2014 CHAPTER PHOTO SHOWING FRIARS WHO WERE ABLE TO ATTEND THE MEETING, HELD IN JUNE 2014. For many years Fr. John Payne devoted VISIT THE NECROLOGY PAGE AT WWW.AUGUSTINIAN. an M.A. in systematic theology. He made his energies to the service of others, in ORG/WHO-WE-ARE/OUR-HERITAGE/NECROLOGY his solemn profession as an Augustinian on AND FILL OUT THE FORM. REFLECTIONS WILL BE parochial ministry, and in the education POSTED SOON AFTER RECEIVED. THANK YOU FOR May 15, 1988, and was ordained a priest and professional development of the young, TAKING PART IN THIS INTERACTIVE NECROLOGY. on November 18, 1989, by Bishop John H. especially those who did not have easy AUGUSTINIAN FRIARS CELEBRATE THE YEAR OF CONSECRATED LIFE Remembering our past…Living our present with passion…Embracing the hope of our future.

THE AUGUSTINIAN . WINTER 2014-2015 . 31 DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL We are pleased to present two new videos The Province’s Development Council works tirelessly to advise and assist Another Year, Another on our “Augustinian Friars” the Augustinians in raising awareness Opportunity for Grace and funds to support the many good YouTube Channel! works of the friars. The Province is indebted to all who serve on the Impressive, especially if you consider that the 2013 census listed 328,471 women Development Council: in the Baltimore Metro area. What is impressive to us, is that along with her family life, her work at Medifast, Michael F. Di Gregorio, O.S.A. management of two Foundations, The first is a video clip of the Prior Provincial membership on the Board of Directors for Installation Mass of Father Michael Basil DiSipio Stevenson University and the Villanova F. Di Gregorio, O.S.A., as the 39th Chairman President’s Leadership Circle, Meg cares Prior Provincial of the Province enough to contribute both leadership and Eric Quisenberry of Saint Thomas of Villanova, financial support to the Augustinian Friars Co-Chair, Annual Appeal through the Development Council and celebrated on June 9, 2014, at the Robert McKiernan the Augustinian Fund. church of Saint Thomas of Villanova. Co-Chair, Annual Appeal Like her mother Shirley and her father, It can be viewed at the link below: Anthony Dellomo the late Bradley T. MacDonald, a founding member of the Augustinian Development Richard E. Devine, Jr. Council, whose untimely death in 2012 INSTALLATION MASS Raymond Falzone brought Meg to the Council, Meg lives a Robert P. Hagan, O.S.A. grace-filled and grace-giving life. James J. McCartney, O.S.A. It reminds us that, although grace comes Michael Picotte from God, grace can be passed on, in small PICTURED: MARGARET (MEG) SHEETZ Jonathan Poling ways and in very large ways. Every day is an The second video is a release Robert Saldutti by the Villanova and Midwest This past October, Margaret (Meg) opportunity to receive and give grace, “You Margaret (Meg) Sheetz Sheetz, a member of our Development shall be like a watered garden, like a spring Provinces with combined footage Christopher Soltis Council, was named to the Baltimore whose water never fails” (Isaiah 58:11). from their recent First Professions. James H. Stewart Sun’s 50 Women To Watch list, recognized As we greet another year, we wish all It was filmed in August 2014, at the of you another year of grace and many Michael P. Sullivan, O.S.A. for her leadership as President and chapel of Saint Thomas of Villanova opportunities to share that grace with others. Robert Woods Chief Operating Officer at Medifast and in Rosemont, Pa., where Colin –TEDDIE GALLAGHER her contributions to the Community. Nardone professed his first vows, HONORARY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL MEMBERS and at Saint Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel in Chicago, Ill., where Nick William Hallissey Mullarkey and Joe Siegal professed Gary Holloway, Sr. their first vows. The video of the First Professions can be viewed at the link below: PLANNED For assistance with planned giving to the Augustinians, please visit www.augustinianfund.org FIRST PROFESSIONS GIVING and click on “Other Ways to Give.”

You can also contact Francis J. Horn, O.S.A., at 610.527.3330 ext. 233. To learn why friars have chosen the Augustinian way of life, check out our Vocation Video “The Call.” Over 2200 people have viewed this video on YouTube. Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 16 THE AUGUSTINIAN Broomall, PA P.O. Box 340 Villanova, PA 19085-0340

“ “A Life Consecrated to THE SERVICE AND WORSHIP OF GOD is a shared witness to the joyful presence of God in our world.

AUGUSTINIAN FRIARS CELEBRATE THE YEAR OF CONSECRATED LIFE Remembering our past…Living our present with passion…Embracing the hope of our future.