VOLUME VII . ISSUE II the augustinian

MODELS for JUSTICE AND PEACE

AUGUSTINIANS AT THE UNITED NATIONS p. 4

CATHOLIC WOMEN AT THE UNITED NATIONS p.14

THE HOLY SEE AT THE UNITED NATIONS p.16 table of contents

The Augustinian Fund the augustinian . VOLUME ViI . ISSUE II The spirit to make a difference. contents in this issue

MODELS FOR JUSTICE AND PEACE The failure of the League of Nations in its original goal to prevent World War II propelled leaders to find a more effective organization. To this end, the Charter of the United Nations (UN) was signed on June 26, 1945. This issue of the Augustinian focuses on “Models For Justice and Peace,” particularly the United Nations and UN-associated Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Like people, models evolve with the times, sometimes falling short of the goals, but Foreign Missions in Japan, Peru and JUSTICE AND PEACE South Africa always reaching for the stars of their purpose and spirit. 4 Augustinians at the United Nations Luminaries for Justice and Peace p. 4 The United Nations, St. Augustine and the Brothers of the Order in every issue of Hermits of Saint Augustine are all models for justice and peace. Fr. Jack Deegan, O.S.A., talks about these three models.

Features HEARTS ON FIRE FOR JUSTICE AND PEACE p. 10 Fr. Emeka Obiezu, O.S.A., is the Permanent Representative The Augustinian Fund 24 for Augustinians International at the UN. His passion comes from the notion that “Christians should have a Bible in one Care of the Sick and Elderly Augustinian Volunteers Vocations/Formation hand and a newspaper in the other.” 10 Columns Letter from the Provincial 2 Catholic Women at the United Nations Volunteer Letters 3 SHINING LIGHTS IN A DARK WORLD p. 14 News and Notes 18 Catholic Bishops, who cautiously joined the UN in 1946, Keeping Track 22 transferred Catherine Schaefer from their Social Action In Paradisum 23 Department in D.C., to direct their UN office. Catherine would spend the next 25 years bringing human rights issues Help us reach our Goal! Donate to the 2012-2013 on the cover to the forefront as never before. fiscal year campaign! The Holy See at the United Nations 14 LUMEN CHRISTI p. 16 • Use the Envelope in this magazine at page 12 • Go to AugustinianFund.org to Donate online Vatican City became a Sovereign State in 1929 and its dove of peace UN photo sovereignty has given the Holy See a special status at the to send your check to the Augustinian Fund by credit card On his official visit to the United Nations in 1979, Pope John Paul II presented the United UN, that of Permanent Observer. Nations with a mosaic of the “Dove of Peace,” a reproduction of a mosaic executed in the Constantinian Basilica during the pontificate of Pope Innocent III (1198-1216). In 1994, the the augustinian image (below) was used for a United Nations A publication of the Province postage stamp. of Saint Thomas of Villanova.

16 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 1 VOLUME VII . ISSUE II

letter from the prior provincial the augustinian volunteer letters

Teddie Gallagher at the loss of another friend. It took both editor time and the support of my community Kitty Sheridan (Augustinian Volunteer and South African) associate editor to move past this, to embrace death, and to 20nine stop fighting an impossible battle against an layout and design letter from the inevitable part of life. As soon as I began to make peace with The Augustinian is a publication of the death, I was able to bond and reconnect with prior provincial Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova. For queries, address changes and other patients. “This is all so unfair,” they’d tell me. correspondence, contact: “Why me?” It’s all the more heart-breaking Dear Friends, Editor when you learn that someone was born with Augustinian Provincial Offices it, or even worse, that they were raped before P.O. Box 340 Have you ever heard the phrase, “The more things change the more they stay the same?” In this they hit double digits—that they didn’t have Villanova, PA 19085-0340 Augustinian Volunteers, 2012-2013. issue of The Augustinian, we highlight “Models For Justice and Peace.” Some people think that all the a hand in their own fate. writings and discussions about justice and peace are relatively new, but they are not. Consider that PHONE 610-527-3330 realized I began to deeply empathize with fax 610-520-0618 When I sit with patients and hear these the little boy and I cried too. Jim and when we speak of St. Augustine, some of the titles given to him are bishop, theologian, Doctor of Email [email protected] cries, I yearn to provide them with any the Church, Doctor of Grace, Hammer of Heretics and, of course, Father of the Church. Not bad web www.augustinian.org I had that in common in that moment, words of comfort or hope, but everything I for one person. But is that all? Reading Augustine one might add another, that of “activist.” we both don’t get to see our dads too often. think or say sounds hollow and empty. The The focus of this issue is the role of the Catholic Church at the United Nations (UN) through I don’t think before this year I would have truth is that it is wildly unfair, and though Augustinians ­AUGUSTINIAN Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Augustinians International, the name of the Order’s let myself feel that along with Jim, I think my patients never seem to do so, I become NGO, is the official “activist” commission in the spirit of St. Augustine, seeking equality, Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova volunteeRS I would have put up a wall or a shield to angry with God. Where is God? Why allow education, food and water for every human being. Fr. Jack Deegan, O.S.A., Director of Justice be “brave” or “strong.” I think that because Anthony M. Genovese, O.S.A. the suffering of children? I have no answers and Peace for the Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, provides the history and purpose of prior provincial I related to him, it made Jim feel even more to these questions yet, so I apologize if you letters at ease. And I’m glad in that moment I was the Augustinians at the United Nations. A piece on Fr. Emeka Christian Obiezu, O.S.A., the Michael H. Bielecki, O.S.A. were expecting a neat and tidy ending to Permanent Representative for Augustinians International’s NGO at the UN, focuses on his role secretary able to put myself aside for God’s will to this. But while my relationship with God has and the Order’s work at the UN. You will also read about the Catholic Bishop’s appointment Martin L. Smith, O.S.A. Lawrence, MA be done. been challenged beyond anything I expected of Catherine Schaefer as Director of its UN office and her powerful contribution in pushing for treasurer this year, I am trying to remind myself that broader access of NGOs to UN Committees through her association with the International Union Since I’ve begun anna Cychowski a challenge is not always a bad thing, but counselors Lawrence, MA 2012-2013 of Catholic Women’s League. my volunteer rather an opportunity for growth. Raymond F. Dlugos, O.S.A. Finally, the history of the Holy See and its special status at the UN is discussed and excerpts from year, something This year has been the most challenging, the speeches of three Pontiffs who have addressed the General Assembly at the United Nations are Joseph L. Farrell, O.S.A. new about my Gary N. McCloskey, O.S.A. South Africa formative, and incredible year of my life. I’ve presented, showing the esteem given to the Supreme Pontiffs at the UN and the respect they return James D. Paradis, O.S.A. faith was quickly learned to embrace the African philosophy When asked about to the UN itself. In his address to the UN, Pope Benedict XVI quotes from Saint Augustine. There Martin L. Smith, O.S.A. revealed to me: a of ubuntu: that a person is only a person Carlos E. Urbina, O.S.A. my greatest challenge is much in common between the church of the 5th century and the 21st century. A common thread close relationship through another person. I would not be who here in South Africa, in time that shows when political activism is undertaken as a response to the Gospel and from with God does not I am right now if not for each person I met Provincial Offices most people expect within the communion of the Church, it becomes an apostolic and a pastoral activity. Some things always mean we will this year and every relationship I formed. remain the same. Unfortunately that includes war, poverty, injustice and inequality. Anthony P. Burrascano, O.S.A. be constantly joyful. When God leads me me to say AIDS. director of missions Our interconnectedness and dependence on Another common thread in our lives as Augustinians is the Rule of St. Augustine, which states, through a period of sadness or frustration, Living in the country Jorge L. Cleto, O.S.A. each other as humans has never been clearer “The main purpose for us having come together is to live harmoniously in your house, intent he is challenging me to let his will be done, with the highest rate director of hispanic vocations to me. Though relationships are challenging upon God in oneness of mind and heart.” The life of Augustine, his mind and his heart have to ignore my earthly pain and grasp tighter of AIDS, where John E. Deegan, O.S.A. at times, I believe that these bonds are what to the reins of his strength and love. 5.6 million people drawn men and women to life in community for centuries. And through God’s grace and your director of justice and peace ultimately see us through life’s much bigger continuing prayers for vocations we celebrate the Solemn Profession of Craig McMahon and I know God’s will has purpose, and that are infected, 300,000 die each year and 1.9 Mario R. Dickerson challenges, providing us with the strength God’s purpose is being revealed to me million children have been orphaned by the Robert Basler, who continue their journeys as Augustinian Brothers. Both will be ordained to the director of development to fight. priesthood in 2013. through my work at Lawrence Catholic disease, I can understand why one would Patrick A. DiDomenico think AIDS is my greatest struggle. The We hope you enjoy this issue of The Augustinian. On behalf of my Augustinian Brothers and the DIRECTOR OF AUGUSTINIAN VOLUNTEERS Academy. By understanding my relationship kellie kozel truth is that my greatest challenge this year Augustinian staff, we wish you a New Year filled with God’s love. Teddie Gallagher with God better, I can relate to others in a South Africa 2011-2012 DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS way I never had before, through common has been my relationships with my patients, In Augustine, Thomas R. McCarthy, O.S.A. suffering. This was evidenced during my community, my co-workers, God, director of Vocations the second week of school in my pre- and myself. In the beginning of the year, it was easy Gary N. McCloskey, O.S.A. kindergarten class, when one of our students Additional volunteer reflections can be Very Reverend DIRECTOR OF AUGUSTINIAN FRIENDS got upset during nap time. I went over to see to fall in love with the AIDS patients in found at www.osavol.org James C. McMaster the Respite Unit and get attached to each Anthony M. Genovese, O.S.A. what the problem was, and found our littlest Share your thoughts! Letters to the editor senior FINANCIAL OFFICER Prior Provincial student Jim crying, saying, “I miss Daddy.” of them. But by April, I could feel myself may be mailed to communications@augustinian. Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova John J. Sheridan, O.S.A. pulling away. I was detaching to protect org, or write to: the Augustinian, P.O. Box 340, So I sat down and comforted him. Soon I Villanova, PA 19085 Archivist myself from further pain and heartbreak

2 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 3 Approved model of the permanent headquarters of the United Nations on the Manhattan site, New York City. [no date, 1949-1951] UN Photo

models for justice and peace LUMINARIES for augustinians justice and peace Enlightened models for justice and peace can be found in many people and many places. at the united One example is the United Nations, whose 1945 Charter and 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights set a model for further dialogue and action: a 1951 nations convention regarding the status of refugees; BY TEDDIE GALLAGHER a 1956 convention on the abolition of slavery and slave trade; a 1966 covenant “It is evident, brothers and sisters, that God means  on social, economic and cultural rights, and the eradication of racial discrimination; us to understand something else when the psalm  a 1967 move to eliminate discrimination says, ‘He counts the great host of the stars,  against women; and a 1968 protocol on the status of refugees. calling all of them by their names.’ There are  Another model for justice and peace luminaries in the Church who console us in  is the Vatican II Document Gaudium et Spes (Joy and Hope) promulgated by His our night; there are stars, and to some of them  Holiness, Pope Paul VI, in 1965. The the apostle [Paul] says, ‘You appear like luminaries  Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World called “her own sons and in this world.’ He explains, ‘Amid a crooked  all of humanity to overcome strife between and perverse race you appear like luminaries  nations; bear witness to Christ in all things in the midst of humanity, under the in this world, holding fast the word of life’  leadership of justice and in the company of charity, so created goods should be in (Phil 2: 15-16). These are the stars God counts;  abundance for all in like manner.” they are the people destined to reign with him.” For members of the Order of Saint Augustine, their model of justice and St. Augustine, Exposition of Psalm 146, Verse 4 peace is Augustine, Bishop of Hippo, a 5th century Saint and Doctor of the Church. THE WORKS OF SAINT AUGUSTINE Augustine’s doctrine and spirituality form A Translation for the 21st Century Augustinian religious life in community, Translation by Maria Boulding, O.S.B. with special concern for the poor. Today, Edited by Boniface Ramsey ©Augustinian Heritage Institute Augustinian friars have apostolates in 43 countries around the world, with many programs that serve those who live in poverty and defend their human rights.

the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 5 Consequently, in 1997, through the the augustinian: What’s the difference the augustinian: How do you operate influence of St. Augustine, Vatican II and between an NGO with DPI status and an with other Catholic NGOs? the United Nations, the Order of Saint NGO with ECOSOC status? FR. JACK: A lot of the religious are in the Augustine registered to participate in the FR. JACK: As an NGO with DPI status, same building with us in New York. They UN as a non-governmental organization in we are the receiver of information and have the same situation we have with some affiliation with the Department of Public we communicate that information to the part-time and some full-time staff. Offices Information (DPI/NGO). Jesús Guzmán, members of our Order through our UN in New York City next the United Nations O.S.A., from the Province of Michoacán, website, through our own conferences and are very expensive, so we go together. They in Mexico, was the first Augustinian who through e-mails to our Justice and Peace represent different groups, the Franciscans, worked fulltime at the UN from 2002-2007. Community. We can be on any committee the Sisters of St. Joseph, the Congregation After Fr. Jack Deegan finished up his two we want, but we’re not assigned to do of the Mission, etc. There are all types of terms as Provincial, he was named Director research and not expected to present religious groups in the building. The good of the Justice and Peace Office and worked papers on anything. part about having Catholic NGOs in close John E. Deegan, O.S.A., is a member of the at the UN part time. In 2010, Emeka Order’s Secretariat for Justice and Peace, a At the ECOSOC status we can be on proximity, is that while you might not have representative for Augustinians International Obiezu, O.S.A., was assigned to be a full- committees in the UN, we can have input the ideal office space, you have the interplay at the United Nations and founder and time representative for the Augustinians Executive Director of Philadelphia-based into issues raised on the agenda and we can between the people who are doing different Augustinian Defenders of the Rights of the at the UN. advocate for committees to make certain things within your own office. Poor (ADROP) www.rightsofthepoor.org Today, 15 years after the Order took statements. We can also work with the its first step at the UN to help solve the the augustinian: When you achieve NGO/ Holy See’s legate at the UN. need caption problems of the world, it is committing ECOSOC standing what will change for UN Human Rights Council Conference Room in Geneva, Switzerland. The ceiling, painted by Spanish The confluence of these three models to deepen its NGO status, by registering the augustinian: What are the issues the team? abstract artist Miguel Barcelo, was unveiled in 2008. UN Photo/Jean-Marc Ferré came together in 1974’s Intermediate as an NGO with Economic and Social the Augustinian NGO takes on at UN? FR. JACK: When we achieve NGO/ General Chapter of the Order of Saint Council (ECOSOC) status. ECOSOC the augustinian: What would you say this unit is best set to accomplish. We have FR. JACK: The issues we’ve looked at over ECOSOC status, we can be appointed or Augustine, held in Dublin, Ireland, where is the central forum that coordinates the to detractors of the UN? ambassadors for every country, and that’s the last few years are trafficking and elected to various standing Committees of the leaders began to consider the socio- work concerning economic, social and FR. JACK: In the 21st century there’s no one way to come together. But to have poverty. There are so many things that the UN. Committees actually have slots political dimensions of the Order. In 1995, sustainable development, human rights, other way than having an international some place where all of these countries need to be done. There are ten millennium for NGOs/ECOSOCs. So Augustinians the topic was revisited at another General gender issues and small arms. entity that deals with overlapping interests can come together, it’s the only way you goals; these are specific goals set up in 2000 will be able to write on or pronounce on Chapter. Fr. Jack Deegan, O.S.A., Director of society and business. The United are going to resolve these differences of to be achieved by 2015 and we work on some of these issues that are worldwide. of the Justice and Peace Office for the Nations or some outfit like that has to be cultures or values. To me it just makes The Augustinian spoke with those in different ways. The UN highlights The Franciscans and a few of the Sisters Province of St. Thomas of Villanova was, there in order to bring people together sense. And it has made sense ever since we the ones it is concentrating on in a serious groups have had a number of people at the time, the Provincial of the Province Fr. Jack about the Order’s to talk about the pluralism of society and realized we are no longer isolated. Instant way during a particular session of the working there full time for a number of St. Thomas of Villanova and was part presence at the UN. overlapping cultures. No one country can communications are there; people are United Nations and we get progress reports of years and most are ECOSOC status of the discussions. do that alone. The UN is ineffective in travelling around the world. You can’t have on how well they are doing. They’ve made NGOs and they are the ones who are our Fr. Jack describes why the move to some areas because obviously each country one country speak definitively on an issue. the augustinian: What does being a some headway but there are some areas teachers and mentors. If you are an NGO become involved in the UN came to has its own self determination, its own Is this a solution to anything? So you come Non-Governmental Organization with where there’s a long way to go. with ECOSOC status then you have a the forefront 20 years after the Dublin rules and regulations and each country is together and when you have 193 member the UN mean? chance to get to the US Ambassador to Chapter: “At the 1995 General Chapter a sacred thing. The UN is a volunteer type countries, it’s going to take time. I don’t the augustinian: How do Augustinian or the United Nations. You have to work for Miguel Orcasitas was the General of the FR. JACK: Basically an NGO has input into of organization. You want to be there, you know how you deal with some of these Catholic NGOs bring a religious point of justice. If you get justice, peace will come. Order and Art Purcaro, from our Province issues that are worldwide issues. They are pay dues to be there in order to achieve problems unless you have some type of view or Catholic social teaching to the UN? All the work you’re doing is leading to the of St Thomas of Villanova, was the now called the Millennium Development some of these international goals, which international organization. FR. JACK: What we bring is a set of values. outcome of peace. Assistant General and Secretariat for the Goals. You’re talking about poverty, you’re A good example is the UN Peacekeeping It’s about the dignity of the individual. Justice and Peace Office. With Art, having talking about disease, you’re talking about group. If we wanted to go in and do peace Everyone is a creature of God. And nature been a missionary in Peru for a number of women’s rights, human trafficking, etc. keeping, people would have a problem is a creation of God. So you need to be years, I think the two of them wanted to The thing that Fr. Jesús did was to get us with the United States, trying to dominate, good stewards of natural resources and you get more involved in the ideas of Catholic known at the UN. He was there fulltime, he to take over. But the UN represents also need to be a protector of the dignity social teachings and justice and peace issues lived in the Bronx and was down at the UN everybody. So if you have a war going on of the individual as a creature of God. So on an international basis. two or three times a week. He and I worked and you have a truce, who can moderate that’s a value set when you go in to work “They saw the opening to an NGO with a group called RUN (Religious at the that truce objectively? They turn to this with people. You’re there to raise up the [Non-governmental Organization] United Nations). This is a group of religious international group that doesn’t have an individual and give each person the dignity presence at the United Nations as one of who have status at the United Nations, axe to grind. The UN forces go in just to that he or she deserves. That’s spiritual; those instruments. Orcasitas is a historian either they are NGO-DPI representatives keep peace. The UN Peacekeeping group that’s values. But they are values that are himself and he was very much in tune with or have NGO with ECOSOC (pronounced has been successful. Not totally, but they agreed upon by a number of different what went on in the 1974 Dublin meeting, echo-sox) status. One of the good things have done a lot of good. religious sects, like if you take the biggest and part of his plan for the first six years about working with the RUN group is that Education for women is a big issue and ones, the Jews the Christians the Muslims, of his generalate had to do with upgrading they know the cast of characters at the we, the Augustinians need to speak out etc., they all are agreed upon the dignity and moving into the UN as an NGO.” United Nations. The Franciscans have been about that because we have men in 43 of the individual and raising people up. It’s BARBARA E. WALL, PHD, (Vp OF MISSION & MINISTRY AT VILLANOVA UNVERSITY) WAS THE KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT there forever; you can tie in with them and THE AUGUSTINIAN SECRETARIAT’S JUSTICE AND PEACE CONFERENCE IN JULY OF 2011. DR. WALL IS PICTURED HERE countries. And some of the cultures where ministry. I see it as ministry. WITH (L-TO-R) ALEJANDRO MORAL ANTON, O.S.A. (co-chair OF THE JUSTICE AND PEACE COMMISSION), MICHAEL F. we minister are suppressive of women. learn from them. GREGORIO, O.S.A. (VICAR GENERAL AND CO-CHAIR OF THE JUSTICE AND PEACE COMMISSION), AND JACK DEEGAN, O.S.A.

6 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 7 A “UN 60” sign, as seen from across the East River at night, lights up the United Nations Headquarters building in New united nations-at-a-glance NEW YORK CITY York to mark the Organization’s 60th anniversary on 24 October 2005. Geneva • Nairobi • vienna UN Photo/Mark Garten

T he Secretary-General UN Security Council and the Secretariat International Court of Justice, The Hague, 15 Members 7,500 Netherlands 5 Permanent Members Staff Members

E conomic and Social UN General Assembly Council (ECOSOC) 193 Member States 54 Appointed Members 6 Main Committees Government and Civil Department of Information (DPI)

Non-Governmental Agencies with International Presence that achieve ECOSOC status Non-Governmental Agencies (DPI and ECOSOC Status)

We, based on our value system, our As you know, for any problems we face, back and you want to make a judgment on Catholic Christian social policies and our it takes time, you have to bring people those people but they were dealing in their principles need to speak up. Certainly if together to get people to move together. own experience. Women in most cultures, Millennium Development Goals: progress as of 2012 we have a mission in a particular country But you make a small step and then the even in the time of Jesus, had second where this is happening, we need to work next one is easier and then you get to class status. They had no say. They were with people to change it. And we can do the goal. not considered equal to the men. And it’s The adoption of the Millennium Declaration in 2000 set into that through our international organization through constantly understanding that we motion a “We Can End Poverty 2015” movement. The declara- as Augustinians but also as members of a the augustinian: How do we end poverty? were created equal by God and if you start tion committed all member nations to work in concert to better UN NGO that speaks to those issues. We equal, then everything else goes from there. the lives of those living in underdeveloped countries by the FR. JACK: The basic thing is education. year 2015. sign on. This is what we stand for. This is To have skills that are applicable for jobs 46% what we work for. Not just acknowledging of the 21st century, you have to work with Definitions The target issues address extreme poverty and hunger, it, but working for it: the care of the earth families. You have to work with cultures education, women’s empowerment and gender equality, health, and all of those issues at the UN. environmental sustainability and global partnerships. The areas and children and bringing them up. G eneral Chapter: a meeting held People were disappointed by the It starts there and it’s multifaceted. targeted are Africa, Asia, Oceania, Latin America, Caribbean, every six years, with delegates from Caucasia and Central Asia. RIO+20 conference because it didn’t In Augustine’s time they still had slaves. have some real hard conclusions. But it each Province attending. When the Roman Empire was falling Progress is significant in many criteria and most countries. The did have statements on a lot of issues that 41% apart, he was struggling with people in Prior General: head of the lives of children, women and men have been improved. Plans 13% are affecting the world and especially the North Africa who were taking young girls Augustinian Order; elected for a six- are underway to keep the work going beyond 2015. Sahara and the southern hemisphere. Each and selling them into slavery. He was year term by the General Chapter. one of these conferences keeps bringing up trying to change the law, but said, “What Can be reelected for a second term. With two years to go, there are pamphlets, charts and graphs measuring success in impressive detail at http://mdgs. the issues and makes some progress. These can we do?” His diocese was ransoming Intermediate General Chapter: held un.org. The full progress chart can be viewed at: http://mdgs. days everybody wants the thing solved Target already met or expected to be met by 2015. people out of slavery. So culture has a lot three years after General Chapter. yesterday…they have very little patience. un.org/unsd/mdg/resources/statis/products/progress2012/ to do with it. Where you are. You look progress_E.pdf Insufficient progress to meet 2015 goal.

No progress, deterioration or insufficient data.

8 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 9 Emeka Xris Obiezu, O.S.A., at the United Nation’s In 2004, Fr. Emeka came to Canada to General Assembly Hall. photo by bryan smith. attend the University of Toronto. Fr. John Paul Szura, O.S.A., a Justice and Peace representative to the UN from the Midwest Province, visited Canada and invited Fr. Emeka to attend a UN conference in 2006. In 2008, Fr. Emeka was appointed HEAS RT ON FIRE FOR as a member of the Secretariat of Justice and Peace of the Order of St. JUSTICE AND PEACE Augustine and in 2010 he was named the Permanent Representative of Augustinians Emeka Xris Obiezu, O.S.A., the International, the Order of St. Augustine’s Permanent Representative for the NGO at the United Nations. Augustinians International Non- Fr. Emeka became a strong advocate for governmental Organization at the United Justice and Peace because “The whole life Nations sits in a small Manhattan office of Christ is the example. Giving us courage space with desk-lined walls. that this is a worthwhile life to live. At the This is the office the Augustinians share same time critiquing us. He did not come with four other religious Orders, in a to be served but to serve, that is what he building that houses at least a dozen more said in the Gospel. Christ gave us that as international Catholic organizations. a model; to always live for others.” A view of the briefing “Prevention, Prosecution and Protection: Focus on the Trafficking of Women and The office is three blocks from the UN, Girls,” organized by the UN Department of Public Information and Non-Governmental Organizations He is not only living the life of a (DPI/ NGO). UN PHOTO/Evan Schneider and sits within a small city of UN member- passionate Augustinian, priest and social related, high-rise buildings. The street justice animator, he is highly trained for it, are non-violent in approach and concerned or accredited to the Economic and Social leading to the UN cuts a sightline through holding a PhD in systematic theology with primarily with the general good.” Council (ECOSOC). the tall buildings to the top of the hill, where specialty in political theology and method In their various forms, NGOs perform As Augustinians International’s full-time the landmark UN building and its flags in theological ethics from the University of a variety of humanitarian and relief delegate, Fr. Emeka is an active member of are partially revealed. There’s a feeling of St. Michael’s College and Regis College, functions, bring citizens’ concerns to the UN NGO committees on sustainable anticipation as you approach this six-block University of Toronto. governments, monitor policy and program development; social development; financial East River site that sits on the edge of the In his doctoral dissertation “A implementation and encourage participation development; human rights issues, Manhattan skyline, perhaps because there’s Theological Interpretation and Assessment of stakeholders at the community level. including migration, trafficking in persons nowhere else on earth like it. The land is of the Participation of the Roman Catholic They also provide expertise, serve as early and poverty eradication; religious NGOs owned by the 193 member states. Church and Roman Catholic Church- warning mechanisms and help monitor at the UN; and the World Alliance for the Some buildings along the way have Inspired Non-Governmental Organizations agreements. Some are organized around Transformation of the UN. elaborately carved doors and emblems and (NGOs) in the United Nations,” he defines specific issues, such as human rights, the Through their NGO, Fr. Emeka directs flags representing the countries that occupy an NGO as “a legally constituted not- environment or health. activities of the Augustinians’ relationship the buildings. One is a beautiful glass for-profit organization, created by private A Non-Governmental Organization is with the UN, which includes participation building where staff from the Nigerian persons or organizations, which have no really a generic term, but, in this context, in advocacy networks that seek to raise Delegation is headquartered. Fr. Emeka participation or representation by any we are talking about NGOs that are alternative perspectives on the formulation has friends there, colleagues who come government personnel and maintain no formally affiliated with the United Nations’ and implementation of UN policies. from his native country, Nigeria. He is partisan political motives. Moreover, NGOs Department of Public Information (DPI) Working with the Secretariat for Justice a long way from home, but he is here to and Peace Committee, he coordinates work for all people through his work for UN-related projects among the Order’s “Youe giv bread to the hungry person,  the Augustinians International’s Non- members in the 43 countries they serve, Governmental Organization (NGO). and endeavors to integrate both advocacy but it would be better were no one hungry,  Fr. Emeka met the Augustinians after and relief efforts undertaken by local and you could give it to no one.  high school when he moved and joined Augustinians in those regions. Saint Augustine Parish, in Benin City, As an NGO with Department of Public You clothe the naked person.  Nigeria. He witnessed Augustinians living Information (DPI) status representatives Would that all were clothed  together in community at St. Augustine from Augustinians International can attend and began to have aspirations to become briefings, meetings and deliberations at the and this necessity did not exist.” an Augustinian. In 1996 he became UN; access UN materials and publications, a solemnly-professed member of the briefing calendars, the UN daily journal, St. Augustine, Tractate 1 John 8.8 Nigerian Province of St. Augustine UN Spokesman Daily Highlights, etc. and was ordained in his parish in 1997. NGO representatives can attend the annual General Debate of the UN General Assembly, and receive invitations to Fr. Emeka Obiezu, O.S.A., with Fr. Joseph P. Foley, C.M., Congregation of Mission. The Congregation of Mission is one of the religious orders that shares the Manhattan office with the Augustinians.

10 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 11 Looking ahead to the future of Augustinians International NGO up by the UN system and in particular by the Fr. Emeka is hoping with ECOSOC status NGO Committees UN Commission for Social Development. The (a status that allows NGOs to be part of Augustinians International Committee also advocates on social development issues in other forums such as the Commission committees with members of the Economic is part of the following and Social Council) the Order will for Sustainable Development, Commission on the Status of Women, Economic and Social Council • Increase staff at New York committees, formed of (ECOSOC), and the General Assembly. Committee • Initiate a presence at Geneva and other representatives of NGOs members keep one another informed and deliver UN major Headquarters from around the world. group statements to the UN voicing ideas and • Create a resource group positions on key social development issues. In • Create more opportunities to support The descriptions below are addition, the Committee is focused on reviewing team members taken from the committees’ the outcome of the World Summit on Social • Strengthen regional networks Development.” websites and/or mission • Bring other members of the Committee on the Status of Women Augustinian family (male and female statements. (www.ngocsw.org) groups) into the organization as a NGO/CSW/NY has no mission statement of witness to our common heritage Committee on Financing for its own. The organizational purpose of the and to improve productivity Development (www.ngosonffd.org) committee is to help plan the UN Commission on As an Augustinian, Fr. Emeka is “The NGO Committee on FFD supports the the Status of Women, which takes place during goals of the Monterrey Consensus to “eradicate the first two weeks of March every year. The fully committed and he is aware of his poverty, achieve sustained economic growth, and Commission on the Status of Women is a policy- prophetic responsibility to raise the voice promote sustainable development as we advance making body of the UN Economic and Social of the Augustinians at the UN to shape to a fully inclusive and equitable global economic Council dedicated solely to gender equality the discourse on Education, Human system.” The committee aims to “confront the and the advancement of women. Development and Human Rights. These are challenges of financing for development” by the issues Augustine faced in the 5th century staying engaged as advocates for the Monterrey Committee to Stop Trafficking Consensus leading actions: mobilizing domestic “Building the foundations for sustainable development is the greatest challenge we face today as an international community.”—Secretary-General and the fight for these basic rights is more in Persons financial resources for development, mobilizing Ban Ki-moon 2012. Pictured: Rice fields belonging to local hill tribes in Sapa, Viet Nam. UN Photo/Kibae Park complicated than ever. It is Christ’s solidarity “The NGOCSTIP is dedicated to the eradication international resources for development, with all of humanity that gives hope and of human trafficking in all its forms through international trade, financial cooperation for education, advocacy, research, and monitoring activities relevant to the work of the NGO Augustinians work to fulfill the letter “Pursuing the Path of Justice and Peace,” purpose to the pursuit of justice and peace. development, external debt, Official Development compliance with United Nations treaties, community. They can also attend the DPI/ and spirit of a DPI/NGO partnership in which drew Augustinians and laity from And the fact that the United Nations owns Assistance (ODA) and addressing systemic protocols, laws, and resolutions. The Committee NGO weekly briefings. several ways: thirteen countries. that six-block piece of land in Manhattan issues.” recognizes the urgency of a) raising awareness The importance of working with and Augustinians International NGO, in means we all own justice and peace. of trafficking in persons as a violation of Human through NGOs as an integral part of affiliation with UN Department of Public NGO successes Committee on Migration Rights, b) ensuring action at the UN to address (www.ngo-migration.org) the underlying causes of human trafficking, and c) United Nations information activities was Information (DPI), sponsor a website In their 64 years of relationship with the recognized when the Department of Public (www.augustiniansinternational.com). “The mission of the NGO Committee on Migration advocating for provision of services to victims.” UN, NGOs have recorded remarkable success. Representatives for is to encourage the promotion and protection of Information was first established in 1946. The website invites you to participate in the Augustinians International They have brought about more awareness of migrants and their human rights, in accordance Committee on Sustainable The General Assembly, in its resolution 13 Augustinian presence at the UN. It includes at the United Nations women’s rights, sustainable development, the with the United Nations Charter.” Development (http://www.trunity. (I), instructed DPI and its branch offices to: • Augustinian International’s monthly HIV/AIDS epidemic, and raised important Permanent Delegate net/CoNGOSD/) …actively assist and encourage national newsletters proposals that include issues of global Emeka Obiezu (Province of Nigeria) Committee of Religious NGOs “ Our vision is underpinned by sustainability information services, educational institutions • DPI/NGO briefings currency transaction tax. They have worked Jesús Guzmán (Province of Michoacán - Mexico) (www.trunity.net/rngo) for present and future generations of and other governmental and non-governmental • NEWS links to Top Stories from nationally to improve laws and offer services Hilary Tagliaferro (Province of Malta) Members of the Committee of RNGOS classify people, including three fundamental pillars: organizations of all kinds interested in spreading the UN News Centre such as health care and education. They were John Paul Szura (Province of Chicago, USA) their work as “religious, spiritual or ethical in environmental protection, social development, nature.” “The committee serves as a forum information about the United Nations. For this The Secretariat for Justice and Peace, also instrumental in outlawing the use of Anthony Pizzo (Province of Chicago, USA) and economic sustainability. The global climate and other purposes, it should operate a fully the overarching executive committee, John Deegan (Province of Villanova, USA) to inform and educate our constituencies crisis, a cross-cutting issue, is an important nuclear weapons and landmines. about the global challenges of our time, and equipped reference service, brief or supply lecturers, meets in Rome to committee focus.” At the opening of the 1994 conference SecretAriat for Justice the constructive role that the UN can play in and make available its publications, documentary • Discuss and publicize issues that may of NGOs in New York, Secretary-General and Peace addressing those issues. It also serves as a forum Working Group on Girls (www. films, film strips, posters and other exhibits for use affect local provinces in one of 43 Boutros-Ghali told the NGO delegates: for exchanging and promoting shared religious girlsrights.org) Alejandro Moral (Asst. Gen., Co-Chair) by these agencies and organizations. countries in which Augustinians serve. “I want you to consider this your home. and ethical values in the deliberations of the WGG is “dedicated to promoting the rights of Michael Di Gregorio (Vic. Gen., Co-Chair) The Economic and Social Council, • Budget and oversee the Order’s UN Until recently, these words might have caused world organization.” girls worldwide, advancing the status of girls Pietro Bellini (ITALY) by Resolution 1297 (XLIV) of 27 May project. and assisting them to develop their full astonishment. The United Nations was Lucien Borg (MALTA) 1968, called on DPI to associate NGOs, • Set Public Awareness campaigns for Committee on Social Development potential as women.” WGG works to ensure girls’ considered to be a forum of sovereign states Juan A. Cárdenas (COLUMBIA) bearing in mind that an NGO issues, like human trafficking. (www.ngosocdev.net) participation in policy-making and education, alone. Within the space of a few short years, John Deegan (UNITED STATES) “ The NGO Committee for Social Development “…shall undertake to support the work • Organize conferences for Augustinian promotes protection of girls from exploitation, this attitude has changed. Non-governmental John Murray (AUSTRALIA) is dedicated to raising awareness and holding and advocates for policies that include and of the United Nations and to promote Justice and Peace friars and laity who organizations are now considered full Gianni Notarianni (ENGLAND) discussions on social development issues taken empower girls. knowledge of its principles and activities, coordinate ministries related to Justice participants in international life.” Emeka Christian Obiezu (NIGERIA) in accordance with its own aims and and Peace. An example would be the purposes and the nature and scope weeklong conference held in July 2010, of its competence and activities.”

12 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 13 shining lights in a dark world On September 11, 1947, in an allocution addressed to the Congress of the International Union of Catholic Women’s League, in Rome, Pope Pius the XII said: “...Catholic women and girls, formerly you would have thought only of worthily playing your sacred and fruitful role in the management of a wholesome, strong, and 1 2 radiant home...but now you appear abroad, you enter the arena to take part in the models for justice and peace battle: you have not sought to do so, but courageously you accept your new duties; not as resigned victims nor merely in a defensive spirit; you are determined to pass to the counter-attack and conquer” catholic women The women of the International Union 3 of Catholic Women’s League (IUCWL) were gathered in Rome in 1947— but it was not the first time they gathered abroad at the united or faced danger in the political arena. In fact, the International Union of Catholic Women’s League (now the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations, nations WUCWO) had been on the move for peace 4 5 6 BY TEDDIE GALLAGHER since the League was founded in Brussels 1. IUCWL Disarmament Petition Float on the way to the League of Nations, 1932 * 2. WUCWO President, Marie du Rostu, Global Campaign Against Hunger 1955** in 1910. The photos opposite this page 3. IUCWL Women marching through the streets of Geneva to petition the League of Nations,1932* 4. Presenting the Petition for Peace, 1932** 5. Catherine “May Mary Auxilium Christianorum be your show women carrying a petition with more Schaefer, the Director of the UN Affairs Office for the NCWC and IUCWL’s Representative at the UN following WWII** 6. IUCWL (now WUCWO) Representatives than six million signatures from Catholic at the Declaration of Human Rights, 1948** (*Swarthmore College Peace Collection **Women’s Catholic League of Victoria and Wagga Wagga, Australia) Pictured on the left: March 21, 1969: Miss Alba Zizzamia, of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations (WUCWO), signs the register for the receipt strength in the battle for the restoration of  women to present to the League of Nations of contributions from the public for “the victims of the policies of apartheid and racism in South Africa” on the morning the register was opened by Secretary-General U Thant. UN Photo/Yutaka Nagata a healthy and prosperous society, for the  at the opening of the World Disarmament conference, in Geneva in 1932. triumph of God and of the Church. We invoke Robyn Fahey, Communications Officer Mary Catherine Schaefer graduated from International Union of Catholic Women’s access to education for both men and women, Her with all Our heart in your behalf. We give  for Catholic Women’s League of Victoria Trinity College in 1927 and went to work as League (IUCWL) in a consulting capacity equal pay for women, parental custody rights and Wagga Wagga, Australia, a WUCWO- secretary to Rev. John Ryan of the National to the Commission. Schaefer, a member for widows and many, many other economic to you all, and to all who are united with you,  affiliated group, wrote that, “members Catholic Welfare Conference (NCWC, of IUCWL, became that first ECOSOC and social issues. They forged alliances with to your works and institutions, as well as to of the union destroyed their archives in now the USCCB) in Washington, D.C. She consultant from IUCWL. other Catholic NGOs and many of these Holland in May of 1940 so the invaders worked for the Social Action Department Schaefer was notoriously forceful and NGOs are the groups the Augustinians work your families, and to all who are dear to you, could not lay their hands on them and use and became active in the Catholic knew how to communicate her goals. with today. Our Apostolic Blessing.” them to find people who had collaborated Association for International Peace (CAIP). She pushed to get broader access to the The Vatican established its own observer against them. In June of 1940, the Gestapo In 1946, Schaefer was transferred to New Economic Social Council at the UN. She was mission at the UN in 1964. In 1972, the searched the union’s offices where Dr. J. York City, where she was named Director elected as the League’s representative to the office was shut down by the bishop’s office, Allocution of Pope Pius XII to the Hoogveld, the union’s chaplain since 1930, of the United Nations (UN) Affairs Office Interim Committee of NGOs, a committee reportedly because it was deemed as was arrested and later died as a result of the for the National Catholic Welfare Council. that determined future UN requirements for redundant to the Vatican, an apparent victim Congress of the International Union of ill treatment he suffered.” Schaefer was the official NCWC Observer at and relations among all NGOs. of a budget cut. Ms. Schaefer retired in 1972. Catholic Women’s Leagues, Rome, Italy, By 1948, an American member of the the UN, mandated by the American bishops In 1948, Alba Zizzamia, was named Alba Zizzamia went on to be the Director of IUCWL would remold Non-Governmental to monitor and lobby for Catholic interests. Assistant Director. For the next 25 years Justice and Peace for the Archdiocese of New September 11, 1947. Organizations at the newly formed In this capacity Schaefer spoke before the Schaefer and Zizzamia were successful in York. Both are deceased. United Nations to give women’s issues Economic and Social Council’s (ECOSOC) raising consciousness about human rights, unprecedented results. Her name was Commission on the Status of Women, especially the status of women’s rights in Note: to find out more about the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations go to Catherine Schaefer. convincing them that they should use the suppressive cultures. They fought for equal www.wucwo.org

the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 15 the poor, the disinherited, the suffering; of those who long for justice for the dignity of life, for freedom, for well being and for progress. The peoples of the earth turn to the United Nations as the last hope of concord and peace. …The edifice which you have constructed must never collapse; it lumen christi must be continually perfected and adapted Pope Pius the XII and Pope John the to the needs which the history of the XXIII gave their support for the United world will present. You mark a stage in the Nations and Catholics were encouraged to development of mankind; from now on represent their countries and organizations retreat is impossible; you must go forward. at the UN, but it was not until 1964 that The Holy See was granted official recognition as a non-member state with Permanent-Observer status in the UN. The Roman Catholic Church-State merits this status because of the 1929 Lateran Treaty, which ended the 59-year dispute between the Vatican and House of Savoy and gave the Holy See status as its own country. Despite its standing as an International Sovereignty, The Holy See His Holiness Pope John Paul II speaking before On the eve of the opening of the 67th session of the General Assembly, a prayer service was held at could not be given member-state status, the General Assembly October 5, 1995 on the the Church of the Holy Family in New York City for the UN diplomatic community and personnel, with occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the United religious and ecumenical leaders. The event was hosted by Archbishop Francis Assisi Chullikatt, models for justice and peace because it did not have a standing army, Nations. UN PHOTO/MILTON GRANT Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the UN, and the Archdiocese of New York. Pictured: Archbishop as required by the United Nations for Chullikat welcomes Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to the prayer service. September 17, 2012. UN PHOTO/Rick Bajornas member-status. Pope John Paul II Visits Since its recognition as a Permanent United Nations based...this intuition was expressed as early Observer, three Supreme Pontiffs Hope and trust: These may seem as the fifth century by Augustine of Hippo, the holy see have addressed the General Assembly, matters beyond the purview of the United one of the masters of our intellectual invited just as any head-of-state would Nations. But they are not. The politics of heritage. He taught that the saying: Do not be welcomed by the assembly. Here are nations, with which your organization is do to others what you would not want done excerpts from their addresses: principally concerned, can never ignore to you “cannot in any way vary according at the united the transcendent, spiritual dimension of to the different understandings that have the human experience, and could never arisen in the world” (De Doctrina Christiana, ignore it without harming the cause of III, 14). Human rights, then, must be man and the cause of human freedom. His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI addresses the respected as an expression of justice, and United Nations General Assembly on April 18, not merely because they are enforceable nations Whatever diminishes man harms the cause 2008, the occasion of the 60th Anniversary of BY TEDDIE GALLAGHER of freedom. In order to recover our hope its Universal Declaration of Human Rights. through the will of the legislators. and our trust at the end of this century un photo/jenny rockett If you remove the yoke from among you,  of sorrows, we must regain sight of that Pope Benedict XVI Addresses transcendent horizon of possibility to which UN General Assembly the accusing finger, and malicious speech;  the soul of man aspires. As a Christian, Experience shows that legality often In an unprecedented visit to the United Nations, If you lavish your food on the hungry and  His Holiness Pope Paul VI makes a special appeal my hope and trust are centered on Jesus prevails over justice when the insistence for world peace before the United Nations Christ...Christian hope for the world and upon rights makes them appear as the General Assembly on october 4, 1965. un photo satisfy the afflicted; Then your light shall  its future extends to every human person... exclusive result of legislative enactments rise in the darkness.  Visit of His Holiness Pope Paul VI Therefore, as we approach the 2,000th or normative decisions taken by the to the United Nations anniversary of the birth of Christ, the various agencies of those in power. When  church asks only to be able to propose Isaiah 58: 9-10 We are speaking with the voice of the presented purely in terms of legality, rights respectfully this message of salvation, dead as well as of the living: of the dead risk becoming weak propositions divorced and to be able to promote, in charity who have fallen in the terrible wars of the from the ethical and rational dimension and service, the solidarity of the entire past, dreaming of concord and world peace; which is their foundation and their goal. human family. His Holiness Pope John Paul II addressing the International of the living who have survived those wars, The Universal Declaration, rather, has Court of Justice during his visit on May 13, 1985. The Hague, reinforced the conviction that respect Netherlands. UN PHOTO bearing in their hearts a condemnation of for human rights is principally rooted in those who seek to renew them; and of those His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, followed by rightful expectation of a better humanity. unchanging justice, on which the binding Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, walks into the Assembly Hall, April 18, 2008. UN Photo/Mark Garten And We also make Our own, the voice of force of international proclamations is also

16 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 17 news and notes news and notes from the Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova and the Augustinian Order Augustinian Volunteers

Fr. Mickey Genovese, O.S.A. (left), and Fr. Peter M. Commissioning Mass Fr. Mickey Genovese, O.S.A. (left), celebrates the Commissioning Mass for Augustinian Volunteers (right). Donohue, O.S.A. (right), concelebrate with Fr. Joe Fr. Mickey Genovese, O.S.A., Prior Above left: Mentru Nagbe, makes his commitment statement along with 27 other volunteers who were Narog, O.S.A. (center). commissioned at the Mass. Provincial, celebrated the commissioning Celebrating the 125th Mass for the 2012-2013 Augustinian Volunteers on August 26, 2012. The Mass Casa Agustin - Hispanic House of Discernment Anniversary of the Dedication was held at St. Thomas of Villanova of St. Thomas of Villanova in Rosemont, Pa. Following Mass, the Church (1887-2012) Volunteers, along with their family, friends, alumni and Friars celebrated the beginning On Sunday, October 7 at 12:00 noon, the of the service year with a dinner held in Villanova University and St. Thomas Parish the church hall. Domestic Volunteers will Choirs sang “Litany of the Saints” to begin serve at several sites in the United States a Mass celebrating the 125th Anniversary of including Chicago, Ill., Lawrence, Mass., the dedication of the church of St. Thomas Philadelphia, Pa., and San Diego and of Villanova, which is on the campus of Ventura in California. Volunteers will also Villanova University. Augustinians Friars be serving at foreign mission locations in of the Province of St. Thomas of Villanova Peru and South Africa, where Augustinian built the church, which serves St. Thomas Friars serve. of Villanova Parish and Villanova University. Fr. Joe Narog, O.S.A., Pastor of the parish, celebrated the Mass and gave the (l-to-r): Elizandro Martin Contreras (discerner), Nelson Rafael Garcia (discerner), Fr. James MacDougall, O.S.A., (prior) and Javier Alejandro Aguilar (pre-novice) homily. With him were concelebrants, Fr. Mickey Genovese, O.S.A., Prior Provincial commissioned and sent to the Augustinians, of the Province of St. Thomas of Villanova, where it was installed at St. Augustine’s and Fr. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., President Church, the official North American Shrine of Villanova University. Following Mass, a Fr, Mickey Genovese, O.S.A., Prior Provincial (center), assisted by Fr. Jack Flynn, O.S.A., receives the for the Santo Niño. The festival draws solemn profession of Br. Craig M. McMahon, O.S.A. (kneeling, foreground). Brs. Basler and McMahon luncheon was held in the Connelly Center recess from the Chapel Shrine (below). people from many states, who attend the on the campus. St. Thomas of Villanova Mass and then parade the statue on the Augustinian Brothers Make church holds a special significance in the Fr. Michael F. DiGregorio, O.S.A., proclaims the streets surrounding the church. Afterwards, Gospel at the Mass celebrating Sinulog. Solemn Profession history of the Province of St. Thomas people gather to have their own statues of Villanova, as well as the hearts of the of the Santo Niño blessed. The Filipino many Augustinians who have worshipped Two Augustinian Brothers, Craig M. St. Augustine Parish community presented Fr. DiGregorio with a Fr. Denis Wilde, O.S.A., conducts the investiture of Marie Lavelle as an Augustinian Secular McMahon, O.S.A. (Eastern Province of there as part of their journeys in becoming Celebrates 20th Anniversary statue of the Santo Niño to commemorate St. Thomas of Villanova) and Robert C. Augustinian Friars. For more information the occasion. Basler, O.S.A. (Midwest Province of Our about the history of the Villanova Church of Summer Sinulog, Augustinian Secular Mother of Good Counsel), were solemnly and its dedication go to: http://augustinian. a Filipino Devotion Welcomed in Troy, New York professed on Saturday, October 13, 2012, org/uploads/11AU101_Augustinian_ Fr. Michael F. DiGregorio, O.S.A., Vicar at the St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel, FallWinter.pdf Stay on top of news and events On August 28, 2012, the feast of St. General of the Order of St. Augustine, in Chicago, Illinois. The Chapel Shrine Provincial of his Province. Concelebrants Augustine, Anne Marie Lavalle was celebrated this year’s Mass at St. Augustine from the Augustinian world – is located in St. Rita of Cascia High at the Mass were Fr. Mickey Genovese, welcomed as a member of the Augustinian Parish in Philadelphia, on the occasion School. The school was founded by the O.S.A., Prior Provincial of the Province of sign up for Augustinian eNews Seculars. Fr. Denis G. Wilde, O.S.A., of the 20th Anniversary of the Summer Augustinians in 1905. With family, friends St. Thomas of Villanova and Fr. Bernard at www.augustinian.org. visiting at St. Augustine Parish in Troy, NY, Sinulog, a Filipino festival honoring and their Augustinian brothers attending C. Scianna, O.S.A., Prior Provincial of the conducted the investiture into St. Rita’s the Santo Niño. In 1992, a statue was the ceremony, during Mass each Brother Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel. Chapter of the Augustinian Seculars. professed his solemn vows before the Prior

18 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-13 . 19 looking ahead

calendar of events

Mark your calendars today for this upcoming special event.

Student posters hung at St. Augustine’s Church during a Mass closing celebrations surrounding Augustinian Academy International Day of Peace Monument Dedication

The Augustinian Academy Alumni An oil-portrait of Javier Pérez de United Nations’ International Association held a dedication ceremony on Cuéllar, fifth Secretary-General of the United Nations, by artist Hans Erni. The Day of Peace October 6, 2012, on the grounds of Our portrait was unveiled at a special cer- The United Nations’ International Day Lady of Good Counsel at Austin Place, emony on 17 March 1992. UN Photo/Evan of Peace on September 21, 2012, was Schneider where the first Academy was opened. celebrated by many organizations, including More than 100 alumni were present at the the Augustinian Office of Justice and Peace unveiling and dedication. The celebration Augustinian and ADROP, the Augustinian Defenders of Fr. Mickey reads the dedication of the monument, began with a Mass in Our Lady of Good pictured top. Photos courtesy of Dan Richards Connection: former the Rights of the Poor. Students in grades Counsel Church, which was founded, 4-8 from St. Anthony of Padua School in (l-to-r): Christopher E. Hopey, President of Secretary-General of Merrimack College; Dr. Mohamed Lazzouni, a and is still staffed, by Augustinian Friars. South Philadelphia, were involved in a peace- leading imam in Boston; Rabbi Burton Visotsky, “ ‘Ever Ancient, Ever New’– The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Mickey Essay by Fr. Allan Fitzgerald, the United Nations themed poster contest. In addition to this the goldziher award recipient and Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley, OFM Cap., Archbishop of Boston. Sacred Treasures” Genovese, O.S.A., Prior Provincial of the O.S.A., in a New “Critical” Javier Pérez de Cuéllar poster contest, on September 23, a Mass and Photo by Kevin Salemme Province of St. Thomas of Villanova and reception closed the week’s events. Sponsored 2013 U.S. Exhibit in Baltimore, a 1965 graduate of Augustinian Academy. Edition of The Confessions: alumnus of Colegio San by ADROP, the Justice and Peace Office, and Goldziher Prize Awarded Maryland The monument, which houses a bell Saint Augustine of Hippo Agustín, Lima Peru the Augustinian Parishes of St. Augustine, that was part of the Academy, contains a St. Rita, and St. Nicholas in Philadelphia, by Merrimack College Fr. Allan D. Javier Pérez de Cuéllar was born Fr. Richard G. Cannuli, O.S.A., will have dedication to the Augustinian graduates the Mass was held at St. Augustine Parish, Fitzgerald, O.S.A., on January 19, 1920 in Lima Peru, The second Ignac Goldziher prize an exhibition of his art at the Basilica of who served our military, especially to and some of the student posters were has contributed where he studied at Colegio San was awarded by Christopher E. Hopey, the National Shrine of the Assumption those who gave their lives in service. displayed at St. Augustine’s Church. an essay, Agustín. He was elected as the fifth Ph.D., president of Merrimack College. of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in Baltimore, The monument was blessed by Fr. Mickey Maryland. The show, “‘Ever Ancient, “Confession, Prayer, Secretary General, serving two Nominations are received from around and Fr. Liam O’Doherty, O.S.A., Pastor Ever New’ – Sacred Treasures,” opened in Transformation,” to terms from 1981-to-1991. During the world for this biannual award, given in of Our Lady of Good Counsel. Third Congress for March, 2012 in Rome, Italy and traveled The Confessions: Saint his two terms, he led mediations recognition of a person, who as a scholar- Augustinian Academy was the first to the Czech Republic and Poland. For the Augustine of Hippo. between Britain and Argentina after Educators and Schools activist, promotes Jewish-Muslim relations. Catholic high school on Staten Island. U.S. exhibition, Fr. Cannuli will have icons, This translation by the Falklands War. On December An honorarium of $25,000 was awarded Opened in 1899 and closed in 1969, of the Order shrines, vestments and two stained-glass Sr. Maria Boulding, 12, 1991, he was presented with On July 30, 2012, the Prior General, to Rabbi Burton Visotsky, Appleman it operated as a preparatory day school pieces. Fr. Cannuli, Director and Curator O.S.B. (1929-2009), originally published to Professor of Midrash and Interreligious the Presidential Medal of Freedom Fr. Robert F. Prevost, O.S.A., presided of the Villanova University Art Gallery, is for students and also served as a Studies at the Jewish Theological Seminary, critical acclaim in 1996, has been described by President George H.W. Bush. at the opening of the Congress held at scheduled to open his show at the end of minor seminary. New York. With Muslim leaders in New as fresh, clear and eloquent, making the Colegio San Agustín was founded the Colegio San Agustín in Lima, March, 2013. text more accessible to the modern reader. in 1903 by the Order of Saint Peru, under the theme “The Augustinian York, he has denounced ads that vilify This new edition, part of the Ignatius Augustine in the Province of Our School: Gateway to the Gospel, Pathway Muslims and he has encouraged Christians, See http://richardcannuli.org for details. Press Critical Series and published in July Lady of Grace, Peru. of the Kingdom.” Some 200 people Muslims, Jews and those of other faith 2012, adds essays exploring the content participated from nearly every country traditions, to study the texts of each others’ of Augustine’s writings. Fr. Fitzgerald has where the Order proclaims the Gospel traditions. Among those present at the taught theology at Villanova University and through the field of education. Each day awards ceremony were one of Boston’s at the Order’s Patristic Institute in Rome. was dedicated to a saint or a blessed of leading imams, Dr. Mohammed Lazzouni He is the editor of Augustinian Studies, a the Order, with the first day dedicated to and Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley, OFM peer-reviewed journal of the Augustinian St. Augustine. The theme of education Cap., the Archbishop of Boston. unveiling of the Augustinian Academy monument. Institute at Villanova. was explored in light of the Gospel view that guided these holy persons.

20 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 21 Keeping TracK

Kevin F. Dwyer, O.S.A. Caritas Christi Health Care System. Fr. Peter was recently elected to the keeping track Fr. Dwyer Villanova University Board of Trustees. professed first Currently, he serves as Pastor, St. Augustine Following the vow of obedience, vows in 1955 after in Andover, Mass. friars find themselves called to a year at Good Counsel Novitiate where they are needed. Each issue of in New Hamburg, Arthur P. Purcaro, O.S.A. The Augustinian hopes to connect N.Y. He received a Fr. Purcaro you with some familiar faces as we BA in philosophy professed first from Villanova vows in 1968 after provide brief updates on friars serving University and did his theological studies a year at Good throughout the Province. Watch here to at Augustinian College in Washington, Counsel Novitiate DC. While in Washington, he took track down that old classmate, pastor, in New Hamburg, graduate courses in American History N.Y. He received a Br. John received the Cheverus Medal John J. chemistry teacher, chaplain, philosophy in paradisum for service in the Archdiocese of Boston, and he received an MA from Villanova BA in philosophy Farrell, professor, co-worker or friend. in modern European history. Fr. Kevin from Villanova awarded by Cardinal Seán O’Malley, OFM was ordained on February 3, 1962, in the University and attended Augustinian The following friars were Cap., in November, 2011. This award sums O.S.A. up the life of Br. John, “in service to the Chapel of Christ the Teacher, Merrimack College in Washington, DC, receiving called home to God. You can Born: 11/5/1932 Donald X. Burt, O.S.A. College, North Andover, Mass. A native his MA in theology. He was ordained on people of God.” first profession: read full biographies of these “I have learned of your selfless dedication 10/1/1951 Fr. Burt holds a of Lawrence, Mass., he has spent most of April 26, 1975 at St. Nicholas of Tolentine and commitment and your many contributions ordained: 6/6/1959 BA from Villanova his teaching career at Merrimack College, Church in the Bronx, N.Y. Fr. Art was Augustinians, and post your own to advancing Christ’s mission. We are blessed Died: 10/5/2012 and a Ph.D. from where served as head of the department assigned to the mission in Peru. He has reflections or favorite memory, by your service and are privileged to name you Fr. Farrell taught economics at Biscayne the Catholic of religious and theological studies and served as the chancellor of the prelature of for this honor.” (Cardinal Seán O’Malley, College and served as president for University in as the archivist of the college. In 2007, Chulucanas and vicar of pastoral programs. online at www.augustinian.org OFM Cap., of Boston, nominating Br. Del five years. He later taught at Villanova Washington, DC, in Merrimack awarded Fr. Kevin an honorary He also served at parishes in Pacaipampa Casale for the Cheverus Medal) University, worked in the Development philosophy. He had doctorate degree. He retired from teaching and Chalaco, as well as the cathedral in Angus N. Office and assisted in fund raising. his novitiate in New in June of 2011 and resides at Austin Chulucanas. While most of his priestly “Fr. Farrell was not just a graduate Hamburg, N.Y. and House in North Andover, Mass. ministry has been in Peru, in 2007 he was Carney, Joseph A. of Villanova, but gave a lifetime of work he professed first vows in 1948. He attended elected assistant general of the Order, where O.S.A. to Villanova as a teacher for 30 years.” Augustinian College in Washington, DC, he served in Rome (1995-2000). After his Duffey, Peter G. Gori, O.S.A. Born: 11/22/1916 for his theological studies. He was ordained service ended, he returned to Peru where he Fr. Gori professed first profession: O.S.A. on June 5, 1955 at the National Shrine of serves in the Diocese of Chulucanas at the first vows in 1973, 9/10/1936 Born: 6/16/1925 Charles P. parish of San Jose Obrero. the Immaculate Conception and his first following a year ordained: 5/29/1943 First Profession: Died: 9/13/2012 Laferty, assignment was at Archbishop Carroll at Good Counsel 9/10/1945 TO CONTACT FR. BURT: Ordained: 6/9/1952 High School in Washington, DC. Fr. Burt Novitiate in New Fr. Carney taught in the Order’s high O.S.A. St. Thomas of Villanova Monastery Died: 11/16/2012 has been a teacher at all three colleges Hamburg, N.Y. He schools, at St. Rita’s (Chicago, Ill.), Born: 7/13/1926 800 E. Lancaster Avenue founded by the Augustinians: Biscayne in received a BS degree Archbishop Carroll (Washington, DC), Msgr. Fr. Duffey served nearly ten years as first profession: Villanova, PA 19085 Miami, Fla. (now St. Thomas University); in education from Bonner (Drexel Hill. Pa.) and Villanova Prep Prior Provincial. Originally appointed to 9/10/1949 ordained: 6/6/1953 Merrimack in North Andover, Mass.; and Villanova University (Ojai, Cal.). He served in parish ministry in fulfill the post, he was subsequently elected TO CONTACT FR. DWYER: Died: 10/19/2012 Villanova University, Villanova, Pa. He and attended Augustinian College, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. to two successive terms (1981-1990). He Austin House A teacher, Fr. Laferty served at several also served as the regent of studies for Washington, DC and the Washington “Fr. Carney was a wonderful algebra teacher served as the Province’s Vocation Director 111 Peters Street of the Order’s high schools and colleges. the Province and in 1980, he was elected Theological Union, earning an MA in at Archbishop Carroll (Washington, DC). Smart and as Director of Students at Augustinian North Andover, MA 01845 He was the vice president of academic assistant provincial and held the post of systematic theology. He was ordained to and humorous.” College in Washington, DC. He served affairs at Biscayne College (Fla.); assistant director of planning and personnel. In the priesthood on August 25, 1979 at the the in the parochial apostolate as well, at TO CONTACT FR. GORI: to the president at Villanova University addition to teaching, Fr. Burt has authored Chapel of Christ the Teacher, Merrimack St. Rita of Cascia in Phildelphia, Pa., St. St. Augustine Parish John J. and he served the Province as the director many books, whose subject has been College, North Andover, Mass. He has Genevieve in Flourtown, Pa., and at Our 43 Essex Street of the missions. Augustinian Spirituality. served at Saint Augustine Parish, Andover; Del Casale, Mother of Good Counsel in Bryn Mawr, Pa. Andover, MA 01810 “Fr. Duffey was involved in the RCIA program “Fr. Laferty was known in his community Fr. Burt’s reflections are online at Saint Augustine Parish, Lawrence and O.S.A. at Our Mother of Good Counsel and he had such to have a great sense of humor.” www41.homepage.villanova.edu/donald.burt at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, TO CONTACT FR. PURCARO: Born: 8/25/1947 a wealth of information about scripture, especially Methuen. He worked for the Archdiocese Parroquia San Jose Obrero first profession: the Old Testament. He would explain the history of Boston Tribunal; served on the Provincial 8/28/1970 Jiron Pisagua #675 and culture surrounding the scripture.” Council; was a trustee of Caritas Holy Died: 9/20/2012 Chulucanas, Piura Peru Family Hospital and served on the board of

22 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 . 23 DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

The Province’s Development Council works tirelessly to advise and assist the Augustinians in raising awareness and funds to support the many good works of the friars. The Province is indebted to all who serve on the Development Council:

Anthony M. Genovese, O.S.A., Prior Provincial The Augustinian Fund Charles P. Connolly, Jr., Chairman Mario R. Dickerson, Director of Development James O’Connor, Co-Chair, Annual Appeal the spirit to make a difference Basil DiSpipio, Co-Chair, Annual Appeal Richard E. Devine, Jr. Anthony Dellomo Raymond Falzone To paraphrase St. Augustine, true leaders walk Peter Federico alongside their people, sharing their journey and Anthony Madrigale Mary Ellen Maggitti experiences as they accompany them. William Mahoney William “Tip” O’Neill, Jr. Augustinians continue the tradition, over seven million dollars to support our Claudia Piccirilli working with your help, to serve God and efforts. The Augustinian Fund provides Michael Picotte to preach the Gospel by our words and support, not only for Province initiatives in Eric Quisenberry actions. In the Province of St. Thomas the areas of justice and peace, but also for Robert Saldutti of Villanova, we have young men in those elderly friars who have worked their Margaret (Meg) Sheetz formation, Brothers who are studying and entire lives to bring about a more just world. James H. Stewart candidates at our vocation houses, eager It helps the poor here at home and in our to be part of our mission. Our Justice and foreign missions. Finally, your support helps Peace Office is committed to an ongoing our young, adult Augustinian Volunteers, Honorary Development program of education and encouragement who by their service, also strive for a better Council Members of the people in the various ministries we world, a world of justice and peace. Thank William Hallissey Augustinians serve. Since its inception in you for joining with us in the spirit to make Gary Holloway, Sr. 2006, the Augustinian Fund has raised a difference.

Visit the new AugustinianFund.org! A new streamlined way to simplify your giving

• Donate online • Meet our Legacy Donors

Bill DiSipio speaks with friends and benefactors of the Augustinians about the good works supported • Discover “other ways to give” a gift. • Learn about the work your dollars fund by the Augustinian Fund and regarding the positive impact the Friars have had on his family and community.

pictured at top: Bill and Mary DiSipio, Co-Chairs of the Annual Appeal, stand with Fr. Anthony m. Genovese, O.S.A., during a fundraising event at The Union League of Philadelphia. The DiSipios hosted this successful event on November 3, 2012 to support the Augustinian Fund. 24 . the augustinian . WINTER 2012-2013 the augustinian . WINTER 2012 . 25 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 16 the augustinian Wayne, PA P.O. Box 340 Villanova, PA 19085-0340

The Augustinian Fund Help support the care of sick and elderly friars and celebrate the Dedication of Saint Thomas of Villanova Church with this remembrance of an event that is close to the heart and history of Augustinians.

This 15 oz. mug can be ordered at www.augustinianpress.org or 1-888-275-0571 and is available at Villanova’s University Shop.