On the Blessings of 2018-2019

RomanEchoes JULY 2019 VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4

THE PONTIFICAL NORTH AMERICAN COLLEGE

SPECIAL SECTION: 2018-2019 Annual Report

11 Annual Report 32 House Jobs 34 Battle of the Bands 36 Rev. Robert Y. Blyman Contents 32

Features

6 Faculty Departures 11 Annual Report 34 Battle of the Bands A Review of the Past Year 35 Classical Concert 29 Climbing the Holy Steps 36 In Memoriam 30 Science and Theology Rev. Robert Y. Blyman 32 House Jobs 37 Holy Week in Poland Seminarian Jobs at NAC

We are pleased to introduce our 2018-19 Annual Report. This is an effort to share with you, our readers, an overview of the past academic year. It was an amazing year, full of challenges and blessings. Thank you for your continued support and your help through prayer. May God bless you!

2 The Pontifical North American College 37

Updates 10 NAC Voices 39 Institutional 5 Rector’s Corner 31 ICTE Advancement 8 Snapshots 38 Economo's Corner

From the Editor

Let us pray Time is a notoriously thorny philosophical concept, which we measure in all sorts of sentimental and practical ways. Among the more practical ways God gives us are calendars, though no one calendar is sufficient. This year’s academic gratitude for calendar meant that the College’s Closing Mass and Banquet fell on the eve of Pope St. Gregory VII’s feast in the liturgical calendar. Visiting his remains in the blessings the year 2018 of our Gregorian calendar (named for a later Pope), I was struck by the famous words inscribed below his remains: “Dilexi received, as well iustitiam et odivi iniquitatem propterea morior in exilio” (I loved as fortitude for justice and hated iniquity; therefore I die in exile). A bit somber, yes, but awesomely resilient, especially considering the glorious the challenges legacy that medieval saint left us. As we take leave of one class of another year and prepare to welcome the New Men, let us pray God gives us gratitude for the blessings received, as well as fortitude of our Lord! for the challenges of another year of our Lord! Nathanael Anderson, '20 Archdiocese of Washington, Editor-in-Chief ROMAN ECHOES 2016 • VOLUME 20: ISSUE 4 3 Contributors

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nathanael Anderson '20, Archdiocese of Washington MANAGING EDITOR Nathaniel Glenn '20, Diocese of Phoenix ASSISTANT EDITOR Seth Lemaire '21, Diocese of Lafayette LAYOUT & DESIGN EDITOR Andy DeRouen '20, Diocese of Lake Charles ASSISTANT LAYOUT & DESIGN EDITOR Madison Hayes '21, Archdiocese of Anchorage

Administration of the Pontifical North American College RECTOR Very Rev. Peter C. Harman ‘99 VICE RECTOR FOR ADMINISTRATION Rev. Kerry Abbott, OFM Conv. ICTE ’14 VICE RECTOR FOR SEMINARY LIFE Rev. Adam Y. Park ‘05 ACADEMIC DEAN AND ROMAN ECHOES FACULTY LIAISON Rev. John P. Cush ’98, C’15 SUPERIOR, CASA SANTA MARIA Rev. James J. Conn, SJ DIRECTOR, INSTITUTE FOR CONTINUING THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION Rev. Edward Linton, OSB EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Mark Randall, CFRE

For more information about the Pontifical North American College, subscription questions, or to learn about ways you can financially support “America’s Seminary in Rome,” please contact Mark Randall, CFRE, Executive Director, Institutional Advancement.

Tel: (202) 541-5411 Fax: (202) 722-8804 Email: [email protected] Website: www.pnac.org

This publication is written, edited and photographed by the students of the Pontifical North American College.

LEFT: Madison Hayes ’21 (Anchorage) had an opportunity during his Christmas travels to take a picture and say a prayer to Our Lady of Paris in the Notre Dame Cathedral 4 The Pontifical North American College before the devastating fire. Rector’s Corner

Much to be done this summer!

hope this finds you enjoying which they will, please God, minister summer. Most of us relish this for the rest of their lives. These time of year. It is time to be summers, in addition to offering the outside, it is a time for vacation joy of being “at home” again after a and relaxation. It is a time to reunite long time, are crucial confirmations Iwith family and friends. It is a time that God is calling them to be a priest that we look forward to each year. and to be at work in His vineyard. While summer brings some longed-for Please join me in praying that these break, it is not without its important are fruitful months of pastoral in Rome are just now beginning their activity for our men and our house. experiences for them and that God new assignments in their dioceses. You might assume that since the confirms their vocation with the We wish them well, and we have seminarians are not in formation at the people they encounter. confident trust that their experiences Seminary campus or in residence at as a part of our family here have the Casa Santa Maria as of this writing, Our men who have finished their prepared them well to serve Christ that not much is going on with our first year with us are in apostolic and his Church in joyful, faithful North American College family, but assignments in Europe, Asia, Africa, witness to the Gospel. that is not the case this summer. and the Holy Land. They are involved in missionary work, parish life, language So, while it is summer, it is still full On our campuses, work which we study and assisting pilgrims. This of activity. In the midst of it all is still cannot do during the year must take summer provides a unique opportunity some well-deserved time for rest and place now. And there is much to be and opens their understanding of the relaxation for students, faculty and done this summer! A large project larger world and the Church’s work staff alike. I hope that the summer to replace the roof and drainage on in it. includes this for you and your family one of the wings of the Janiculum as well. All of this activity is possible building is well underway, as is a Over forty young men are getting ex- only because friends like yourself see project to strengthen the outer wall cited to come to Rome and will soon the value in training priests and future of the Southeast corner of our campus begin Italian language study in Assisi, priests at the heart of the Church in which over the years has leaned Siena or Verbania. This is quite an Rome. Your generous support allows inward significantly. While that might exciting time, and I urge you to pray us to assure that the work we are be quaint for a tower in Pisa, it must that they know peace as they take up about moves forward! be fixed to secure our property! a new chapter in their lives, a long way from home, seeking to serve the Blessed Summer, Our students who have finished their Lord in his Church. May God grant second and third years of formation them safety and peace of soul as we are currently in the United States, welcome them to our home. most of them in parishes in their home dioceses. These experiences put them Our most recent priests, finishing their Very Reverend Peter C. Harman, STD ’99, in touch with the environment in seminary training or graduate studies Rector

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 5 Departing Faculty

This year the community of the Pontifical North American College will say goodbye to some of the priests and sisters who have made this seminary a true house of formation, as well as a welcoming home base for visiting Americans in the heart of Rome. We send our prayers with them as they begin their new assignments in God’s vineyards.

From Left to Right: Rev. John McDonald '07 (Birmingham), Rev. Daniel Hanley '05 (Arlington), and Msgr. Fernando Berardi '77 (New York) enjoy a quick picture together immediately before the 2019 Closing Mass and Banquet.

Msgr. Fernando Berardi Rev. Daniel Hanley Rev. John McDonald Rev Msgr. Fernando Berardi, ’77, Rev. Daniel Hanley, ‘05, Diocese Rev. John McDonald, ’07, Diocese Archdiocese of New York served as of Arlington, served the College as of Birmingham, served as the Carl J. the Superior of the Casa Santa Maria the Director of Admissions from Peter Chair of Homiletics during his from 2014 to 2019. We are very 2014 to 2019. His passion for time at the College, from 2016-2019. grateful for his years of service to seminary formation and zeal for His many stories and southern the College and we wish him the the priesthood will be missed in the hospitality will be missed by many very best of luck and our prayers as College community. Upon his return at the College as he returns back to he moves to his next assignment as to his diocese, he will spend time his diocese to serve as the pastor pastor of the Parish of the Blessed working full-time on his dissertation of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Sacrament in Staten Island, which for his doctoral degree in the field of Anniston, Alabama, which has a was the location of his very first dogmatic theology at the Pontifical large school that serves students assignment after his ordination! University of Saint Thomas Aquinas from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade while in residence at Saint Rose in high school. of Lima Priests' Retirement Villa in Annandale, Virginia.

6 The Pontifical North American College Rev. Lawrence P. Herrera, SJ Rev. Lawrence P. Herrera, SJ (Society of Jesus, California Province) has been an integral part of this seminary community since 2012. Serving as a Spiritual Director. Fr. Herrera has also given tremendously to the College as a professor of Classical and Biblical Languages for classes accredited by the Pontifical Gregorian University and the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross. We will always be grateful for his spirited conversations, his learned ways, and his colorful homilies. Fr. Herrera will return to California for priestly ministry closer to his family. From Left to Right: After their joyful years of service Sisters Mary Christa Nutt, Sean Marie Striby, and Gianna Marie Savidge receive some words of gratitude, as well as a few bouquets of flowers hidden behind Fr. Harman.

Sister Mary Christa Nutt, RSM Sister Sean Marie Striby, RSM Sister Mary Christa Nutt, RSM, the Sister Sean Marie Striby, RSM, has Coordinator of the U.S. Office for graciously been of service to the Visitors to the Vatican and the local seminary and Casa Santa Maria Superior for the Religious Sisters of communities as an infirmarian. Her Mercy of Alma, Michigan in Rome, endless patience and kindness to so has been an important part of the many since her arrival in 2013 will College’s community for many years not be forgotten. Sister Sean Marie since her arrival in Rome in 2005. In will take on the responsibility of addition to her work at the Visitors’ forming new Sisters in her religious Office, Sister Mary Christa had served community as the Postulant Mistress for several years as an instructor for in Alma, Michigan. seminarians who needed to complete prerequisite philosophy classes here Sister Gianna Marie at the College, as well as offering a Savidge, RSM seminar to students in the thought of Sister Gianna Marie Savidge, RSM, a Saint Thomas Aquinas. Sister Mary second-year novice for the Religious Christa will be returning to Alma, Sisters of Mercy of Alma, Michigan, Michigan to begin a new mission as was a friendly and helpful presence the local Superior of the convent in in the U.S. Office for Visitors to the The glint of warm sunlight coming the RSM Motherhouse as well as Vatican this past academic year. Sister through the window is a sign that being involved in the continuing Gianna Marie, a trained medical Fr. Herrera is departing to return to formation of her Sisters. doctor, will make her first vows this California this summer. year and then return to the U.S. to be part of her community’s health care apostolate. n

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 7 Snapshots

Rev. Gregory Crane '19 (Bismarck) delivers the annual toast to the College on behalf of the fourth-year class at this year's closing banquet.

Rev. David Schunk '10 (left) and seminarians from the 4th Central A yellow rose basks in the Roman summer sun near the College's hallway at the College bond over an opportunity for a challenge at Immaculate Conception Chapel. Rome's 'escape room' experience on a evening out in the city.

Entertainment for the annual Rector's Dinner was a hit! One of this From Left to Right: Clayton Forner '20 (Saint Paul-Minneapolis), year's performances highlighted Patrick Agustin '20 (Washington), Joseph Caraway '20 (Lake Charles), Zachary Jones '22 (Sioux John Bilenki '22 (Baltimore), James Glasgow '20 (Washington), Max City), and Rev. Stephen Schumacher '19 (St. Loius) all compete for Carson '20 (Des Moines) and Enan Zelinski '20 (Madison). the NAC's fastest man on the College's sports day.

8 The Pontifical North American College Visiting guests pour into the outer hall of the courtile for the Rector's Dinner.

On a Saturday pilgrimage adventure, John Pankratz '21 (Great Falls-Billings) prays through the intercession of St. Margaret From Left to Right: Rev. Gregory Crane '19 (Bismarck) and Rev. Tyler of Cortona, whose town is just a short train ride away from Johnson '19 (Seattle) take a look at their class photo where they will the College. be remembered at the College after they depart this summer.

Center: New Man Alex Fry '22 (Dallas) stands with thousands of Scaffolding covers much of the College infrastructure during the pilgrims as he follows the Palm Sunday procession in St. Peters summer months as repairs and maintenance continue. square with Pope Francis.

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 9 “And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.” VOICES (Luke 8:15) With this verse in mind, what has been one experience this year that has helped bear fruit in your life and helped you to grow in OF NAC your formation?”

“In preparation for ordination to “Three years ago, as a semi- the Diaconate, my classmates narian, I had the opportunity and I were asked over the course to visit Cologne, Germany of the year to write personal with some classmates. On reflections on each of the three Sunday, we went to a church promises made at this ordination: perpetual with an English Mass. It broke our hearts celibacy, obedience to our bishops, and prayer when they announced that there would be for the Universal Church especially through the no Mass that weekend because they could Liturgy of the Hours. This opportunity allowed me not find a priest. This year, as a priest, I to prayerfully deepen my understanding of these returned to Cologne and concelebrated promises, and experience a more profound freedom that same English Mass. The hunger this which I believe will serve as rich soil for the seed community had for the Eucharist was truly of the Sacrament of Holy Orders which I will, inspiring and humbling, especially given God-willing, receive in Rome this coming October.” how easy it is to take regular Masses for granted in so much of the United States.” Christopher Marbury, ’20 Archdiocese of Denver Rev. Stephen Logue ’18, Diocese of Harrisburg

“Beginning our “It is a surreal “As a deacon, prayerfully homiletics and humble preparing homilies and practicum in blessing to live preaching has trans- this second year just a stone’s formed my spiritual life of my formation throw from the and formation. This time has helped me to bear the fruit Basilica enshrining the bones of prayer and ministry gives me of preaching the Word of God. of St. Peter. In my first year the opportunity to meditate on I have learned that preaching the here, Peter’s strong presence is the Word of God in a new way and Word is unique to each person, a constant reminder to return with a new purpose in mind: to since each person must transmit to prayer and ground myself in break open the meaning of Sacred the Word through his own the Lord’s personal, loving call, Scripture in order to aid souls in personality. Through these 'Follow Me,' which has brought their growth as disciples of Christ. practica, I have begun to learn me here, and in the boldness of It has been a challenge at times, how I can best preach in a way Peter’s faith, 'You are the Christ, but certainly a challenge that brings that objectively presents the the Son of the Living God… To me great joy and meaning in my Word and yet, subjectively do whom shall we go? You have ministry as a deacon as well as my so in a way that represents my the words of eternal life…' which future ministry as a priest.” true self.” guides me as I seek to know and Rev. Andrew Schwenka ’19, love the Lord more and more.” Joseph White, ’21, Diocese of Lincoln Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston John Bilenki ’22, Archdiocese of Baltimore

10 The Pontifical North American College 2018-19 Annual Report

FROM THE RECTOR

As we look back on another year of priestly formation, I am happy to introduce the 2018-2019 Annual Report. I know that you enjoy hearing from the students as they reflect on the aspects in which our program shapes them in many ways for future priestly ministry at home.

This has been, as you know well, a difficult year for the Church in the United States, with the revelation of past misconduct which clouds the light of the Gospel. Our men feel this as much as anyone. Our program remains one of integrity and virtue, and challenges our seminarians to know what is expected of them in their ordained life by demanding that they live it now. The growth of this year has been one by trial in many ways, but one, which none of us would have desired, can be seen, please God, as helping all of us desire to serve the Church as priests for the right reasons only, to serve as did Christ. The Church needs the generous and faithful souls of our College for its future, and we need you to help us carry out their work. Thanks for sticking with us. You make what we do possible.

Very Reverend Peter C. Harman ’99

Reverend Peter C. Harman, STD ’99, Rector 11

ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT The priest is called to be a living image of Jesus Christ.

THE FOUR Human Formation PILLARS OF Spiritual Formation PRIESTLY Academic Formation FORMATION Pastoral Formation

12 The Pontifical North American College ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 Human Formation: New Priorities in the Eternal City

Enan Zelinski ’20, Diocese of Madison

At the Mass in which my diocesan Walgreens, a car, or a self-renewing of us who are preparing for brother Tim Mergen ’20 and I were cellphone plan were suddenly over Priesthood work toward a life received as candidates for Holy 5,000 miles and a several hour time which sees the necessity of Christ Orders, our late Bishop, the Most difference away. It was a profoundly as its true foundation. This is why we Reverend Robert Morlino, said in his humbling experience to realize how spend time in seminary focusing homily that we were being sent to much I relied on exterior support on the ways God is forming and Rome to “study theology, yes, but systems, convenience and encour- redeeming our person at every even more to be formed by the agement, and to see how insecure level. This process is not something experiences and culture of life in their absence made me feel. accomplished on our own, nor is it Rome.” What he meant was that completed by the time ordination beside our studies, our daily There were times that all of these rolls around. It is God who works in experiences of Rome would also differences were a struggle for me us throughout our lives, encouraging form and shape us at a human level. to embrace, but as I look back over us and correcting us when we look to three years of life here in Italy, I see produce security and comfort instead The most unexpected grace of many ways in which God used the of looking for Christ. moving to a foreign country for absence of these comforts to draw several years of my life has been me closer to Himself, and to seek The frequency that these reminders the seemingly basic challenges relationship with Jesus Christ as are needed – especially for me – is of everyday life. Especially for the central foundation of my life. embarrassing and humbling. My duties someone who comes from a large The benefit that comes from such and responsibilities still distract my family, moving to Italy and into a an upheaval is that it offers the attention from Christ, and I’m sure the house of relative strangers was not opportunity to reprioritize the diverse experience of moving to Italy will not easy to manage. Everything was new, aspects of human life, beginning with be the last time Jesus has to shake and the adjustment was chaotic. a life focused on Jesus Christ. me to remind me that I need to rely Never mind the jet-lag and heat of primarily on Him. But, redemption Rome in July, the separation from This is the ultimate goal of what in and perfection are a life-long process, almost every support system or seminary we call “Human Formation:” and I see the unexpected graces of convenience that I was accustomed to strive towards a virtuous human these past three years as a small way to back home was hard to accept. life founded on and in imitation of that Christ is reminding me that, even Things that were assumed and Jesus Christ, whose humanity is in great discomfort, he is still working regular parts of life such as family, perfect. Having lost true and perfect to redeem me and make my humanity friends, English communication, integrity through Original Sin, those more like his own.

Rev. Kevin Chalifoux '19 (Burlington) delights the audience with a piece by the 20th century Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich. 13

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 13 ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 There is one common interest that ties us all together: the pursuit of holiness in the vocation that Christ has called us to.

THE FOUR Human Formation PILLARS OF Spiritual Formation PRIESTLY Academic Formation FORMATION Pastoral Formation

14 The Pontifical North American College ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 Spiritual Formation: “If you knew the gift of God…” (John 4:10)

Rev. Will Nyce ‘19, Diocese of Arlington

Ordained ministry, like all the usual morning struggle to sanctify charity shown them at that meal, they sacraments, is pure gift. It cannot be the day by studying and working on pray (no matter their confessional bought; it is not earned; it is received, a paper for class, I had the privilege background) to Jesus, Mary, and their not taken. Like any friendship, it is of assisting—along with many other guardian angel. Then they listen to shared life which makes ‘gift giving’ deacons, seminary faculty and the gospel before the meal and sing a simply an external sign of the more friends—at the priestly ordination hymn. Some even come early to pray foundational love between friends. of our classmate Martin Amaro. the rosary in the chapel—incentivized As a deacon (and not yet a priest at Gathered with his bishop in a chapel by early seating in the mess hall. the time of writing this), I have the of Saint Peter’s Basilica with his privilege of knowing that when I two sisters, some close family, and Back at the seminary, after some am called to serve. It is a gift from the palpable prayers of friend and leisurely fraternal conversation at my best friend, from the one who family present and distant, it was an dinner in our refectory, I was prompted ordained me: Jesus. incredibly moving experience. Bishop by loving obedience once more, to Anthony Taylor spoke beautifully pray before going to bed—struggling I say this because it is the goal of about God’s provident care for to worthily fulfill my promise to “pray all the spiritual formation which we Martin through his (long) journey the Liturgy of the Hours with and for receive here at the North American to the priesthood from Little Rock the Christian people.” In those final College: to be open to the “gift of to Mexico to Rome. moments of prayer, I gave thanks to God” in the sacrament of Orders God for how he has opened my heart given through the hands of the bishop After that sacramental service, I to receive his gift: worship in Spirit and and the promise of obedience—that was able to give myself to the Truth flowing from the sacraments is to say, in faithful friendship—to him. ministry that I have been ordained into friendship with Jesus. God so Like the Samaritan woman at the to do: serve at table. Once a week I quickly transforms the sweat of our well, receiving this gift requires a right help at the meal for men offered by service to his will, of our diaconia, to faith, pure intention, and a thirst for the Missionaries for Charity in their a gift of living water…if only we knew God, but the intimate conversation house near that Vatican. I always this gift of God at every moment of with the Lord through our years here come away joyful, not only because the day! Our Christian service is itself in seminary helps draw these realities the sisters and volunteers are a gift, what a privilege—given to us all out of us. delightful people, but also because through our baptism—to be called to of the grace which I see active in receive from the altar of the Lord. The past week, I had an very these men. They can be a tough memorable Saturday: after the crowd. But thanks to the constant

Seminarians from the Theology II class pray the Mass at the Church of San Gregorio Maggiore in Spoletto, Italy, where they spent a fraternal weekend together. 15

THE FOUR Human Formation PILLARS OF Spiritual Formation PRIESTLY Academic Formation FORMATION Pastoral Formation

16 The Pontifical North American College ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 Intellectual Formation: Becoming Familiar with the Truth

Rev. Benjamin Petty ‘19, Archdiocese of Washington

One of the most essential gifts we wisdom to recognize him. Therefore clear thought when we preach, are receive as human beings is our the study of theology, is one where where our studies come together. capacity to know and understand. “the future priest assents to the word We all have to be able to articulate To develop oneself intellectually of God, grows in his spiritual life and a concept well enough to pass an “is a fundamental demand of the prepares himself to fulfill his pastoral exam, but real familiarity with the human intelligence by which one ministry.” (PDV, 51) truth comes when we try to see ‘participates in the light of God's mind’ how it all fits together in the light and seeks to acquire a wisdom which The College provides us with many of the challenges we face back in in turn opens to and is directed different avenues to pursue this study our home dioceses. toward knowing and adhering to comprehensively. Our academic God.” (Pastores Dabo Vobis, 51, studies are at the core of our daily The intellectual pillar of formation is quoting Gaudium et Spes, 15) work as seminarians. Attending one about more than just academics, it of three different universities with is a key component in developing an Intellectual development is about students from around the world gives authentic pastoral spirituality. As I becoming truly wise. The wise us an appreciation for the breadth approach my own ordination, I have man is not simply the one who and depth of the Church’s cumulative come to appreciate more and more has read more books or had more reflection on the mystery of faith. the need for the true wisdom which experiences, but the one who has comes from such an integration. I become intimately familiar with the The College also provides supple- join in the invocation of the Holy Spirit truth. He and the truth have become mental in-house seminars, reading made by many of our professors at such good friends that they can groups, and lectures that complement the start of their lectures: quickly recognize each other even and strengthen areas particular to us in midst of a vast crowd. as a North American College, like U.S. “O God, who by the light of the Catholic history or ancient language Holy Spirit, This is especially important for classes offered in English. These help did instruct the hearts of the priest. Priests are called to be to fill in the gaps and smooth the the faithful, shepherds, which is not the first job transition from our studies at home that comes to mind when you say the to those in Rome. grant us in the same Spirit to word ‘intellectual’. But, when Jesus be truly wise the Good Shepherd reminds us, “I Finally, we are formed in our and ever to rejoice in His know my own and my own know me, community life. Comparing our consolation. as the Father knows me and I know different classes, discussing tough Through Christ our Lord. Amen.” the Father.” If we are to lead others in questions over a meal, or trying to the way of Jesus, we must have the distill all we have learned into one

Will Frei '20 (Charleston) prepares for final exams at his regular carrel in the Randal Riede, C.F.X. Library. 17

ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 In the work of pastoral formation a seminarian learns and practices how to hand on the riches of the Church's Tradition and accompany the people of God.

THE FOUR Human Formation PILLARS OF Spiritual Formation PRIESTLY Academic Formation FORMATION Pastoral Formation

Rev. Jerome Krug '19, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City

One of the many beautiful murals in man and his growth as a person, as a vocation, a personal call to love the our Immaculate Conception Chapel is disciple, and as a leader. The Pastoral Church as Jesus loved the Church. The of the Good Shepherd surrounded by Pillar, in a manner of speaking, is the priest is a man who has responded his flock. If you look at him closely, he “output” pillar of priestly formation. to this call to lay down his life, to love is tired from working hard. He is worn It is in the work of pastoral formation his brothers and sisters as he himself and dirtied from being fully engaged that the candidate for Holy Orders has been loved by Jesus. This laying in the care of his flock. He is even learns and practices how to hand on down his life comes by choosing carrying a sheep upon his shoulders the riches of the Church’s Tradition, availability and service as his first while the others gather around him the witness of his own personal walk priority. He exceedingly avails himself and follow him. Yet you can also see of discipleship, and how to faithfully for the celebration of the Sacraments, his strength, determination, and and tenderly accompany the People especially the Eucharist and Confession. confidence; he knows what he is of God in their walks of faith. In other He devours the Word and then is about. His ability to give Himself words, pastoral formation teaches the himself consumed by it so that he can for his flock is no coincidence and man how to let his heart, his thoughts, teach with words of life. Following it doesn’t come free of cost. He has his intentions, and his entire life be Jesus, he draws close to the poor, finely honed his capacity to put his conformed to the Good Shepherd. to the widow, the orphan, and the flock first and has freely chosen to stranger. In short, he loves with the take on great personal tolls in doing The first step to becoming a shepherd same love by which he has been loved. so. You can almost hear him say, after the heart of the Good Shepherd “My life for my flock.” is to be one of the sheep, a member “My life for my flock.” This is the quiet of the Lord’s flock, who has personally prayer, the deep hope of every man As men who are being formed for experienced his faithful and steadfast seeking to give his complete “yes” to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ, we care. It’s only after having been loved the call of the Good Shepherd. We are engaged in various means of by Christ, having caught eyes with have no illusions about the magni- preparation which are divided into his gaze, and having heard his voice tude of the call or about our human four pillars: Human Formation, calling our names can we begin to frailty and weakness. It is only a total Intellectual Formation, Spiritual learn how to lay down our lives with reliance upon the love of the Good Formation, and Pastoral Formation. him for his flock, to love his flock Shepherd that makes this radical gift The first three are largely focused on as our own. Having experienced a of self a possibility. We know the “input” into the candidate for Holy profound and personal encounter voice of the Shepherd and we know it Orders. The Human, Intellectual, and with the Lord Jesus is the foundation is only with him and because of him Spiritual Pillars are focused on the which then allows a man to hear a that we can say, “My life for my flock.”

The large image of Jesus the Good Shepherd in Immaculate Conception Chapel is the first image seen by priests as they leave the sacristy and enter the sanctuary for Mass. 19

Seattle Spokane St. Cloud St. Paul-Minneapolis Yakima

Portland Crookston Helena Duluth Bismarck Fargo Burlington Baker City Great Falls-Billings Superior Marquette Portland Pittsburgh Ogdensburg Green Bay Gaylord Manchester Boston Boise Erie Youngstown Syracuse Springfield New Ulm Grand Worcester Rapid City La Crosse Rochester Albany Fall River Winona Rapids Saginaw Buffalo Madison Hartford Providence Sioux Falls Milwaukee Lansing Scranton Detroit Altoona- Bridgeport Kalamazoo Sioux City Dubuque Cleveland Johnstown Allentown Rockford Chicago Brooklyn Norwich Des Moines Toledo Cheyenne Omaha Greensburg Metuchen Reno Grand Island Joliet Gary Ft. Wayne Trenton New York Santa Rosa Salt Lake City Davenport Wilmington Sacramento Peoria South Bend Steubenville Newark Oakland Lincoln Harrisburg Stockton Lafayette Columbus San Francisco Arlington Denver Springfield Camden Rockville San Jose Kansas City Indianapolis Cincinnati Fresno - St. Joseph Philadelphia Paterson Centre Monterey Colorado Springs Kansas City St. Louis Covington Wheeling- Salina Richmond Baltimore Jefferson City Evansville Louisville Charleston Pueblo Belleville Washington Dodge City Las Vegas Owensboro Lexington Wichita Springfield-Cape Raleigh • Honolulu Girardeau • Fairbanks San Bernardino Nashville Knoxville Los Angeles Santa Fe Tulsa Charlotte • Juneau Orange Gallup Memphis • Anchorage Amarillo Oklahoma City Little Rock San Diego • Melbourne, Australia Phoenix Atlanta Charleston • Perth, Australia Birmingham • Sandhurst, Australia Tuscon Lubbock Dallas Las Cruces Savannah • Sydney, Australia Shreveport Jackson Fort Worth El Paso Tyler • Pembroke, Canada San Angelo Alexandria • Eparchy of Our Lady of Baton Mobile Where do our Lebanon of Los Angeles Lake Rouge Biloxi Pensacola-Tallahassee St. Augustine Austin Charles • Personal Ordinariate of seminarians come from? San Antonio the Chair of St. Peter New Orleans Orlando Beaumont • St. Thomas, Virgin Islands This past year, nearly 100 dioceses were represented by Victoria Houma-Thibodaux Galveston- St. Petersburg • Eparchy of Syro-Malankara 209 men in formation at the Seminary, plus another 73 priests Corpus Houston Lafayette Venice Palm Beach at the Casa Santa Maria for graduate studies. During their years Laredo Christi Miami here in Rome, a deep sense of community is fostered, embracing KEY: the diversity of experience and knowledge that each man holds. State Borders In a unique way, the College offers a broad view of the Universal Brownsville Diocesan Borders Church, not only in Rome, but within the community itself. Diocese with students attending (shown in red) 20

Seattle Spokane St. Cloud St. Paul-Minneapolis Yakima

Portland Crookston Helena Duluth Bismarck Fargo Burlington Baker City Great Falls-Billings Superior Marquette Portland Pittsburgh Ogdensburg Green Bay Gaylord Manchester Boston Boise Erie Youngstown Syracuse Springfield New Ulm Grand Worcester Rapid City La Crosse Rochester Albany Fall River Winona Rapids Saginaw Buffalo Madison Hartford Providence Sioux Falls Milwaukee Lansing Scranton Detroit Altoona- Bridgeport Kalamazoo Sioux City Dubuque Cleveland Johnstown Allentown Rockford Chicago Brooklyn Norwich Des Moines Toledo Cheyenne Omaha Greensburg Metuchen Reno Grand Island Joliet Gary Ft. Wayne Trenton New York Santa Rosa Salt Lake City Davenport Wilmington Sacramento Peoria South Bend Steubenville Newark Oakland Lincoln Harrisburg Stockton Lafayette Columbus San Francisco Arlington Denver Springfield Camden Rockville San Jose Kansas City Indianapolis Cincinnati Fresno - St. Joseph Philadelphia Paterson Centre Monterey Colorado Springs Kansas City St. Louis Covington Wheeling- Salina Richmond Baltimore Jefferson City Evansville Louisville Charleston Pueblo Belleville Washington Dodge City Las Vegas Owensboro Lexington Wichita Springfield-Cape Raleigh • Honolulu Girardeau • Fairbanks San Bernardino Nashville Knoxville Los Angeles Santa Fe Tulsa Charlotte • Juneau Orange Gallup Memphis • Anchorage Amarillo Oklahoma City Little Rock San Diego • Melbourne, Australia Phoenix Atlanta Charleston • Perth, Australia Birmingham • Sandhurst, Australia Tuscon Lubbock Dallas Las Cruces Savannah • Sydney, Australia Shreveport Jackson Fort Worth El Paso Tyler • Pembroke, Canada San Angelo Alexandria • Eparchy of Our Lady of Baton Mobile Lebanon of Los Angeles Lake Rouge Biloxi Pensacola-Tallahassee St. Augustine Austin Charles • Personal Ordinariate of San Antonio the Chair of St. Peter New Orleans Orlando Beaumont • St. Thomas, Virgin Islands Victoria Houma-Thibodaux Galveston- St. Petersburg • Eparchy of Syro-Malankara Corpus Houston Lafayette Venice Palm Beach Laredo Christi Miami KEY: State Borders Brownsville Diocesan Borders Diocese with students attending (shown in red) 21

Most of those who live and work at cooking, cleaning, secretarial work, of the personale. I have been able to the North American College only and general upkeep of the College, the hear their stories about their families’ glimpse a sliver of its substantial personale are an indispensable part of lives in Italy, and to hear first-hand history. We seminarians live at the daily livelihood in Rome. about their memories of this College house for a fast four or five years and and of many of the past seminarians then return to the United States or To celebrate the personale members and priests on faculty over the years. Australia to offer our lives in priestly of the NAC community, on May 3rd of Those we celebrated for their 25 years ministry. The priests on faculty might this year the North American College or more of service to this house will stay for a few years longer than the honored those members of the staff joyfully recall “Monsignor Dolan” or will seminarians, but they too know that who have offered 25 years or more of jokingly give us a hard time about the life in Rome is a temporary part of labor at the North American College long-lasting tradition of having ham- what the Lord has asked them to offer or at the Casa Santa Maria. We began burgers, in Italian “i hamburger,” for in their lives as priests of God. lunch that day with some words from American dinner on Thursday nights. Father Harman and Monsignor Berardi There is, however, one group of directed to these twenty members, All of these members of the personale people at the North American thanking them for their dedication to that I have spoken with over my three College that sees, understands, and the North American College and to years here have a deep thankfulness appreciates a much larger part of the Casa Santa Maria. The seminarians to this College for what it has meant to its history. The staff members, or in then expressed our own gratitude to them both in their day-to-day livelihood Italian, personale, often remain part these men and women whose work and in their spiritual lives. I know that of the North American College is often behind the scenes. for myself but for all my brother community much longer than any seminarians of this house, we share in of the priests or seminarians do. The Over my time spent in formation at the a thankfulness to God for those who in personale takes care of the daily NAC, but particularly after considering so many ways make it possible for us to needs of those of us who call the this lunch on May 3rd, I have had a spend our years of formation in Rome. College our temporary home. From great gratitude to God for being able electrical work, maintenance repair, to get to know many of the members

left: College personale stand to be honored in the refectory at the May 3rd pranzo (lunch) held in their honor. center: The Rector's Secretary Lory Mondaini is always ready to greet visitors to her office. right: The kitchen 22 personale exchange congratulations at the honorary luncheon.

There is a man beset by medical Not everybody who looks for how many pedestrians and tourists expenses who regularly sits by employment will end up hired. stroll past him every day, walking with the sidewalk some steps from the However, the reality is that everyone black shoes in need of polishing? I College’s entry. His name is Mariano can work, no matter his condition, asked a couple of the brothers at the and he is one of many beggars in and there is always work, big or small, College, always willing to help those Rome. He has been faithfully coming to be done by us in this world. This less fortunate in Rome, if it would to his spot for a longer time than I is because God created us in His be a good idea to propose a small have been in Rome. Every so often, Image and Likeness. By making us shoe-shining business to him. After on my way back from school or an in His Image, the God who created positive feedback, I went to offer errand, I will stop by and chat with everything in the universe made us this proposal to him. He accepted it, him. One day, however, when talking capable of sharing in that work. Man so I brought him a few supplies and about his situation, he blurted out is universally called by God to work, taught him how to do it. to me, “non posso lavorare,” that is which is why we find fulfillment in “I can’t work!” work. As the popes have always He has been running his small taught, there is dignity to human shoe-shining operation for some As I made my way back to the work, even manual labor. Persons months now. Though it is simple work, College, his words struck something who are limited by mental or physical it seems as if Mariano has found much inside me. It bothered me to hear conditions can still work according to meaning and joy in doing it. Plus, him say that. He meant to say that their own capacity. A person who is he provides a good service for all he cannot work because no one bedridden can pray for the needs of those who approach him and his will hire him. I asked him further the world, and I think that, in the eyes little shoe-shinning workshop. Most questions regarding his difficulties of God, such work of prayer is just as importantly, this small venture has finding a job. Whatever the case, dignified as paid work. helped me to communicate to him he was equating employment with how he, too, like the rest of God’s work, two things that are usually the So, later that same day, I was inspired children, is called to work. same though not always equal. to do something for Mariano. I thought,

ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 The North American College thanks the many gracious benefactors who helped make such improvements possible. Your faithfulness to and love of the College is, in essence, faithfulness to and a love of its mission: the formation of priests after the Heart of Jesus Christ. May God bless you and reward you for your generosity!

Re-upholstered seating and many other updates in the Corso Auditorium will ensure that the facilities will 24 remain a worthy venue for guest lecturers, as well as the regular conferences and plays held at the College.

In order to effectively serve seminarians • Cleaned and restored the Reredos in • Completed the restoration of the and priests year after year, the North the Immaculate Conception Chapel Immaculate Conception Chapel American College is regularly taking • Upgraded the lighting that illuminates chiostrino and frescoes steps to maintain and improve its the Mosaic of Our Lady in the • Installed quick, push-bar exit devices vast physical plants—the Janiculum Immaculate Conception Chapel on several doors in case of emergency campus, the original Via dell’Umità • Renovated the guest lavatories • Repaired gymnasium power supply campus (the Casa Santa Maria and and flooring in the Piano Corridor due to unforeseen water damage the USCCB Visitor’s Office), as well adjacent to the Refectory • Renovated an anteroom of the Library as the Casa O’Toole, the home of the • Established a strategic plan for our to create additional reference Institute of Continuing Theological archives, including new cataloging material room Education. Through the generosity of software and storage equipment • Installed new handrails at the main many faithful benefactors, the College • Replaced the safety rails in the entrance (portineria) was able to complete a host of repair Immaculate Conception Chapel cupula • Restored the entry doors and roof and improvement projects during • Completed the renovation of the Wall of the Casa O’Toole the 2018-2019 formation year. These Apartments, Cloisters, and Corridor projects will serve our community for • Implemented a new online “portal” Casa Santa Maria Campus decades to come! to facilitate admissions, maintenance Additional renovations to common requests, guest requests, and access areas, gates, corridors and Janiculum Campus travel notifications terraces were completed this year, • Added a new water line to the • Completed the renovation of the following a four-year major renovation Campo Sportivo area stage, lighting, seating, wall covering, that included new electrical, plumbing, • Installed new pavers, curbs and flooring in the Corso Auditorium HVAC, and redesign to provide en-suite and safety lighting around the 80 student rooms. Campo Sportivo

26 Dennis and Lynne Jilot celebrate with Cardinal James Harvey ’75 and Fr. Peter Harman ’99.

ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 • ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 An initial gift of support to the College we know is truth,” they remarked. “What Last year, the Jilots approached the can be prompted by many things. better way and what better place for rector, Fr. Peter Harman, about making But it is usually through a personal seminarians to grow closer to the Lord a significant gift to the College in honor invitation to “come see” that engages as they deepen their commitment, get of Cardinal Harvey. After much discussion benefactors so meaningfully that they to know themselves more, overcome and prayer, Mr. and Mrs. Jilot recently are moved to invest in our noble work their fears, face their challenges, and announced a $1 million gift to establish of priestly formation. learn to trust in the special calling the James Cardinal Harvey Household they've been given than this unique Fund. Their extraordinary gift honors Such is the case for Dennis and Lynne and amazing national seminary.” both Cardinal Harvey and the future Jilot, natives of Wisconsin and current students of the College. The dedication residents of Reno, NV. They were But it was an introduction to a loyal plaque reads in part, “Mindful of the invited to attend the annual Rector’s alumnus of the College, Cardinal daily resources needed to ‘keep a Dinner at the College by their close James Harvey ’75, that led the Jilots to house in order’, the Fund will be used friends, Tim and Steph Busch. “We make an extraordinary gift earlier to maintain, renovate and enhance read about the NAC, and were this year. Being from Wisconsin the critical living areas of the Seminary greatly impressed by its mission himself, Cardinal Harvey and the Jilots campus – truly the Roman Household and formation of seminarians from became close friends quickly. “We of all who live with us.” all over the United States,” said Lynne. were immediately drawn in by his personality and hospitality, and over Dennis and Lynne Jilot are wonderful At the Rector’s Dinner and during the course of the last few years, have examples of how philanthropy is future visits to the College, the Jilots grown to know this humble, gracious truly about people giving to people, have been moved by the joy and spirit servant and call him a special friend,” gratefully so. As the Jilots explain, “We of the students – so much so that they said the Jilots of Cardinal Harvey. are so grateful to be part of the NAC chose early on to become financial benefactor community, and those who supporters of the College mission. As former Prefect of the Papal pray that the Holy Spirit will strengthen “When we reach the doors of the NAC, Household, Cardinal Harvey has and renew seminarians as they continue and feel it's spirit and enthusiasm remained close to the College since their studies and prepare to serve God from within, we know that even in his priestly ordination in 1975. He is a in so many ways!” these times of turmoil in the Church, it frequent visitor to the seminary and is not a time to be disheartened - but is generous with his time for students a time to be more faithful to that which and faculty alike.

Above: Dennis and Lynne Jilot with members of their family and Cardinal James Harvey on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary. 27

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2019

Rev. Scott Allen, Diocese of Orange Rev. Christian Huebner, Archdiocese of Washington Rev. Martín Amaro, Diocese of Little Rock Rev. John Jang, Archdiocese of Sydney Rev. Richard Aubol, Diocese of Saint Cloud Rev. Tyler Johnson, Archdiocese of Seattle Rev. Andrew Auer, Archdiocese of St. Louis Rev. Peter Julia, Archdiocese of Portland Rev. William Banowsky, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Rev. Jerome Krug, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Rev. Brad Berhorst, Diocese of Jefferson City Rev. Chan Lee, Archdiocese of Newark Rev. Rhodes Bolster, Diocese of Nashville Rev. Larry Machado, Diocese of Stockton Rev. Joseph Boustany, Diocese of Lafayette Rev. James Morrison, Archdiocese of Washington Rev. Christopher Boyle, Archdiocese of Boston Rev. Ryan Muldoon, Archdiocese of New York Rev. Michael Buck, Diocese of Melbourne Rev. William Alexandre Nevitt IV, Diocese of Paterson Rev. Stephen Buting, Diocese of Milaukee Rev. Michael Nguyen, Diocese of Orange Rev. John Calabro, Diocese of Paterson Rev. William Nyce, Diocese of Arlington Rev. Michael Carlson, Diocese of Charlotte Rev. Kyle O'Connor, Diocese of Richmond Rev. Kevin Chalifoux, Diocese of Burlington Rev. Benjamin Petty, Archdiocese of Washington Rev. Gregory Crane, Diocese of Bismarck Rev. Alfredo Porras, Diocese Worcester Rev. Joseph Cwik, Archdiocese of Washington Rev. Mitchel Roman, Diocese of Gaylord Rev. Ralph D'Elia, Diocese of St. Petersburg Rev. Nathan Rueb, Diocese of Kansas City—Saint Joseph Rev. James Downey, Diocese of Des Moines Rev. Thomas Scherer, Archdiocese of Denver Rev. Matthew Faucett, Diocese of Green Bay Rev. Andrew Schwenka, Diocese of Lincoln Rev. Scott Foley, Diocese of Davenport Rev. Stephen Schumacher, Archdiocese of St. Louis Rev. John Gancarz, Archdiocese of Hartford Rev. Joseph Sigur, Diocese of Beaumont Rev. Nicholas Ginnetti, Diocese of Steubenville Rev. Joseph Squillacioti, Diocese of Orange Rev. Brandon Guenther, Diocese of La Crosse Rev. Spenser St. Louis, Diocese of Forty Wayne—South Bend Rev. Edouard Guilloux, Diocese of Arlington Rev. Alexander Turpin, Diocese of Rockville Centre Rev. Shane Hewson, Diocese of Tulsa Rev. David Wheeler, Lexington Rev. Ethan Hokamp, Diocese of La Crosse Rev. Luke Wilgenbusch, Diocese of Nashville Rev. Brandon Wolf, Diocese of Bismarck

28 The Pontifical North American College A Clumsy Crawl up The Holy Steps MARVIN SOTO NUÑEZ ’20, DIOCESE OF PHOENIX

esus walked up these steps mound of unreliable marble folds. It’s “ when He was taken to hard to kneel after a while and soon the Pilate,” my friends told me ascent becomes an awkward crawl. I as we rode the metro to San sense a temptation to get up and leave. Giovanni station. “Saint I’m distracted. I’m speeding through Helen packed them up and brought the rosary in pain. The beautiful themJ back with her from Jerusalem.” frescoes which adorn the walls are not Sometimes you hear things like that helping to lift my thoughts, consumed in Rome, and it makes you wonder. now with finding the quickest way up. But then again, you don’t have to As I position my knees clumsily on look very far before you run into an the next step, I catch sight of a calm Egyptian obelisk in the middle of a and prayerful elderly woman. Her piazza. The ancient Romans came, saw, eyes are closed and I can see that she and brought back mementos from their is firm on her path upwards. She’s wars in Egypt. When the Christians open and peaceful. That moment took over, they put crosses on top of comes to all seminarians, that flash those obelisks, thus baptizing them. of understanding and recognition of The story of Saint Helen going to a larger world where the lay faithful Jerusalem and returning with some often do things better. I feel a secret steps doesn’t seem so far-fetched surge of shame and decide to finish the considering the history of the city. steps quietly and without cheating.

The instruction continues, “This is the Back home, as I rest my knees and first time they’ve uncovered the steps take in the fresh air, I think about in quite a while. We’ll be able to use these little adventures. The tradition them without the wood covering. It tells us that Jesus walked up these steps will be nice. Jesus walked up these and we are rightly impressed by all steps!” In fact, this is the first time the these associations with his life. Jesus boards have been removed in about Himself encourages that impulse, 300 years. I will admit, I’m getting The Holy Steps were uncovered and but in a different direction. While the excited as we approach the famous accessible to pilgrims from Passion wonders of Rome are certainly a gift, Holy Steps, and I begin the process Week until Pentecost this year. it turns out that closeness to Him is of evoking some awe before the available world-wide. Read Matthew wonderful. But then we get there and 25:40. Surprisingly, our more immediate there they are, humble little steps The first steps are easy enough. I contact with Jesus is with the poor with a few people kneeling quietly land on them and try out some prayer and needy. Pope Francis’ emphasis on on them. “Wait,” I say, “we have to postures. The years have not passed the peripheries all of a sudden makes do this on our knees?” “Of course!” in vain through these revered steps, sense. It’s the same goal as the great comes the response, with more than and the steady stream of pilgrims over churches of Rome and its relics: a hint of surprise at my ignorance. the centuries have reduced them to a communion with Jesus. n “Pray a rosary; it will be a while”

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 29 The Theology that Helps Makes Science Possible REV. JOSEPH R. LARACY ‘13, ARCHDIOCESE OF NEWARK

am a priest of the Archdiocese Barbour: An Evaluation for the somehow opposed, but I think it is of Newark, and I am also Catholic Doctrine of Creation.” In very important for Catholics to know blessed to be a member of the light of recent Papal and Conciliar that faith in God the Creator was the Seton Hall University Priest Magisterium, and given the scope of prerequisite for the emergence of Community. Founded in 1856 Fundamental Theology to cast its gaze empirical science as we know it today. by then-Bishop James Roosevelt not merely within the confines of the It is noteworthy that given the splendid IBayley and named after his aunt, Catholic Church, but also to engage simplicity of the fact of creation, the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Seton truth wherever it may be found, I most advanced ancient civilizations Hall is fortunate to have 49 priests, strove to carry out a substantial study failed to grasp it. The Hungarian- almost all diocesan, with roles ranging in the thought of the late Professor American scholar, the Reverend from teaching and research to campus Stanley L. Jaki, O.S.B., diligently ministry and administration. In addition The created world can studied the history of science and to the sacred sciences, priests have only be understood noted the effect that pagan religion faculty appointments in academic had on both the common-sense units ranging from Chemistry & through the God-given understanding of the natural world Biochemistry to Diplomacy and gift of reason, properly as well as the unsuccessful attempts Education. These roles often require ordered. He who to develop empirical science in pursuing further studies. ancient civilizations. Unlike the created the cosmos is pagan religions of antiquity, e.g., My own doctoral studies in Funda- logos—Reason, Himself. ancient Egypt, Christianity never mental Theology at the Pontifical sought to explain the physical Gregorian University began in the fall Ian Graeme Barbour, a prominent phenomena of the material world as semester of 2017. I had previously American theologian and physicist. a dramatic struggle between warring earned the STL from the Gregorian In my dissertation, I analyze Ian gods and goddesses, i.e., myth. The in 2014 and served in my archdiocese Barbour’s distinctive approach to the created world can only be understood for the three years in between. I am relationship of theology and science, through the God-given gift of reason, very grateful to His Eminence, Joseph largely unexplored in the Catholic properly ordered. He who created the William Cardinal Tobin, CSsR, DD, tradition, according to fundamental cosmos is logos—Reason, Himself. for the opportunity to dedicate myself theological criteria. My goal was to completely to two years of doctoral investigate the possibility for Barbour’s My two years living at the Casa research. I’ve also been blessed to epistemic, metaphysical, and theolog- Santa Maria have been grace-filled. have an encouraging and supportive ical principles to enrich the dialogue And, thanks be to God, I successful- doctoral advisor, Father Paul Haffner, and integration (to use Barbour’s ly defended my dissertation on May an internationally recognized expert in terms) of the Catholic doctrine of 28, 2019. The Casa has provided the the field of theology and science. creation with the natural sciences. intellectual and spiritual environment for me to pursue my doctoral studies The title of my dissertation is “Theology Many people still seem to think of and also grow in my priestly identity. and Science in the Thought of Ian creation and natural sciences as Laudetur Iesus Christus! n

30 The Pontifical North American College Institute for Continuing Theological Education A Doctor of the Church, Napoleon Bonaparte and the Casa O’Toole REV. EDWARD LINTON, OSB, DIRECTOR, INSTITUTE FOR CONTINUING THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION

ometimes people ask even a knight, who, according to legend, me, “What is the most was the first to enter the Holy Sepulcher interesting and beloved when Jerusalem was taken by the place you have visited Crusaders in 1099. Several Gabrielli while in Rome?” Certainly, ancestors became Benedictine Monks the person inquiring expects me to of the Monastery of Fonte Avellana in Sanswer by saying either, “Saint Umbria, the monastery of Saint Peter Peter’s,” “the Sistine Chapel,” or Damien (1007-1073). In fact, it was perhaps, “the Colosseum.” It is true, Saint Peter Damian who wrote the Vita living in Rome has allowed me to to promote the cause of beatification for become intimate with incredibly Saint Rudolfo Gabrielli, who succeeded beautiful places such as these that him as Bishop of Gubbio. Saint Peter Rev. Edward Linton took over as bear strong witness to our Catholic Damien, whom Dante placed in one Director of the ICTE program this past faith. But the places that intrigue me of the highest circles of paradise in year, accepting the duties of making most are places that I stumble upon, Paradiso, was named a Doctor of the priests on sabbatical at home on the realizing only slowly their significance Church in 1828. Gianicolo, as well as serving as a formation advisor to some of the in the history of our faith. seminarians in formation. Prince Mario Gabrielli married Charlotte These places often can’t compete Bonaparte, the niece of Napoleon with the stunning art and architecture Bonaparte. She was the daughter of incredibly beautiful Roman sites that of Rome’s more famous venues. It is Lucien Bonaparte, Napoleon’s brother. are all around it. The Casa O’Toole only by sitting in them quietly and Villa Gabrielli, in fact, reached the simply cannot compete with them! later reflecting upon them that one is zenith of its reputation while Charlotte But having stumbled upon this place able to discern their importance. If one Bonaparte was its compere. It became they experience the priestly fraternity, is patient, it is often possible in these the center of a literary and intellectual intellectual inspiration, and the most unlikely places to encounter a circle which she convened. Villa outstanding views of the city that it more subtle piece of history relevant to Gabrielli became a must-see stop of offers. Slowly, they become aware of our modern experience. I am thinking Grand Tour travelers who were attracted the history preserved on our home upon of places like the church of San by its incomparable view on the city. the hill. Then, most surprisingly, the Benedetto in Piscinula, or the church Indeed, we can say that Napoleon’s Casa O’Toole becomes one of the most of San Giovanni a Porta Latina or, yes, niece established in this place the high interesting and beloved places in Rome! places like our own Casa O’Toole. standard for continuing education that ICTE promotes. The American novelist, Francine Casa O’Toole, like the priests it serves Prose once wrote, “If we could be during their sabbaticals, has seen a Today, hard-working priests, a bit tired reborn wherever we chose, how lot! The Villa was initiated in the late from their active ministry, stumble crowded Rome would be, populated eighteenth century by Prince Pietro upon Casa O’Toole, grateful to be by souls who had spent their previous Gabrielli. He was descended from a here. Without a doubt, they are most lives longing to inhabit a villa on the distinguished line of saints, clergy and immediately impressed by many other Janiculum Hill!” n

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 31 “House Jobs” at the College

Many hands make light work, and there is no shortage of either at the North American College. Seminarians usually receive a “house job” during their second year in formation. They continue in this or another assignment during the 3rd and often their 4th year of theology as well. While they vary in the level of commitment and in the talents required, all of them help develop hearts of service, and gain experience that will be helpful in future ministry. Below are some of the various roles that seminarians fill to serve the community at the College.

Patrick Augustin ’20 Rev. Kyle O’Connor ‘19 Levi Thompson ’20 Archdiocese of Diocese of Richmond Diocese of Lake Charles Washington House Job: House Job: House Job: Corridor Deacon Infirmarian Capo House Cantor and Choir Librarian “There's always a generosity and fraternity “It is truly a gift to be infirmarian here “All house jobs - big or small, in among the guys on the hall, and that at the college. My house job here at the front of the community or behind the makes it really easy to be a hall deacon. College is actually to do a corporal work scenes - provide a great service to Like most guys at the NAC, I've lived on of mercy and care for the sick. It’s great the seminary. My first house job as the same hall (2nd Convent) for all four to look out for my brothers physically, so the Assistant for Liturgical Programs years I've been here, and the community that we can serve the Lord spiritually. And entailed making photocopies of the on the hall has always been a highlight of it is a skill that I hope to cultivate more in Solemn Vespers program every week, my time here. We didn't win the Hall Ball my future ministry.” whereas my current role as Head Cantor Championship (as we did in 2017), but it places me within the liturgy in a more was a great year nonetheless.” John Bilenki ’22 public way. I value both house jobs Archdiocese of Baltimore because they afford me the opportunity Christopher Trummer ‘21 to help my brothers pray and worship Diocese of Springfield House Job: Our Lord, which is a great grace.” in Illinois New Man Show Director “Directing the New Man House Job: Show was an awesome experience! It Bike Shop and Woodshop Capo was incredible to see the diversity in “Because I have a background in talents and creativity in my class, from automotive mechanics, I was attracted writing music and lyrics to videography to serving the seminary community by to writing sketches and then more behind working in the bike shop. This house job the scenes jobs like lighting and stage has allowed me to serve to roll up my management. Their willingness to share sleeves and get my hands dirty, the kind their gifts and contribute to the success of work I grew up doing with my dad. of the show really made it a group effort With all the reading and other desk- – truly a joy!” bound work our formation requires, manual labor helps me ‘come down from the clouds’ a bit and offers a welcome break from my routine!”

32 The Pontifical North American College Rev. Mr. Peter Alessandro Calderoni Timothy Mergen ’20 Gallagher ’20 Ortiz ’21 Diocese of Madison Diocese of Camden Diocese of Tulsa House Job: House Job: House Job: Assistant Master Angelicum University Prefect Library Student Assistant of Ceremonies “As representative from the College to “Our dear librarians, the Dominican Sisters, “Serving as an assistant MC has been a the Angelicum, this job offered me the organized a new section to our library, the tremendously rewarding and formative opportunity to work on communication Magisterial Documents library. Papal texts experience. Of particular importance has and organization. These underpin the from Pope Leo XIII to Pope Francis are now been the ability to interact with various work of the parish priest to preach the being stored in a more accessible area, priests to see how they carry themselves Gospel well to all members of the Church, which has come very handy for us who in preparation for and anticipation of young and old alike!” study theology at the NAC. Re-shelving the Holy Sacrifice. I am grateful to have these has made me appreciate the beauty witnessed the deep life of faith in these Paul Floersch ’21 and greatness of the Magisterium, the men and I hope to carry their example Diocese of Omaha Church's teaching office. Cruising through forward into my own priesthood.” the new section, reading the titles, one

House Job: quickly finds how the Popes of recent Grant Wilson ’21 Pastoral Council times—through their magisterial writings— Diocese of Springfield

2nd Year Class Coordinator have truly nourished the life of Christian in Illinois “As a pastoral council representative for faithful, as well as shed the Gospel's light the second year men, I am responsible on many areas of human society. I get to House Job: for coordinating a small handful of work primarily with books and Sisters, Assistant Hospitality Prefect events throughout the year for my class. and few things, in my mind, are as fun “The most interesting part of working Normally, I have a bad habit of not asking and wholesome as working with books hospitality was asking seminarians to for help, but this job description has and Sisters.” help carry up the gifts during Mass. Some required a fair amount of delegation—in people were really willing to help, while other words, constantly asking for help! others were more reluctant. It was great Rev. Stephen Buting ’19 A great grace from this position has been Archdiocese of practice for finding volunteers in a parish. learning how generous people are to help Milwaukee You have to try different strategies, out when you make an individual request phrase the question different ways, and of them. A collection of generous yes's, House Job: sometimes just play the numbers game. well-coordinated, can amount to truly St. Lawrence Outreach Food Pantry But we always found enough volunteers.” joyful occasions of fraternity and prayer." “St. Lawrence Outreach has opened my eyes to the generosity of my brothers in the House toward the poor of Rome. Their example inspires me to be more generous in my interactions with our friends on the streets.”

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 33 The Battle of the Bands CHRISTIAN SMITH ‘20, DIOCESE OF BISMARCK

ne of the aspects of life at the College that always impresses me is how talented my brother seminarians are. It seems like every day I’m Olearning that one of them can do some amazing card trick or back flip or something equally unpredictable. They all have past lives that they bring with them to ministry, and the old saying is true: “God calls all kinds.”

One way that this shows is in musical The lounge is filled to capacity as seminarians enjoy the entertainment and sing talents. During the College’s recent along to some standard tunes. Classical Concert, Jonathan Vala ’20 (Sydney), who organized the event, remarked, “Music is something to be ever “Battle of the Bands.” It was held Skynard and among others. While shared. We can practice in our rooms after the closing banquet, a time in there was no official judging as is all we want, but it is totally different which we celebrate all the blessings typical at a battle of bands, the men to play for other people.” As a fellow that God has given us over the year. of the house—seminarians and faculty amateur musician, I can affirm that We also say goodbye to our brothers alike—were supportive, either by this is absolutely true. Playing live for the summer, because it is the way of performing, participating in music is very life-giving for both the last event of the year where we are the audience, or by helping with performers and the audience, and together as a house. sound equipment. at the North American College there are always opportunities. At the end of the academic year, To me, it is clear that these men the springtime weather in Rome is could be doing a lot of different things In order to showcase the musical beautiful, so while studies call, the with their lives. Some are excellent talents of the house in a different way, outdoors and plane tickets to our performers and talented musicians. this year the College hosted its first homes in the States battle for God called them to something different, attention as well. The Battle of the however. They will be His priests. Bands helped bring a little levity This doesn’t mean that they have to and to give a musical break to put all their talents aside, or that all all of the demanding exams and they do is study, but it does mean that distracting summer plans. Perhaps they try to excel in every aspect of life the best way to “fight the man” is and to become a well-rounded person, with a little rock ‘n’ roll. and music is a part of that. They get to enjoy using all of their talents for Every show takes practice and little Groups were able to come together God’s Church, and God’s Church is elbow grease to prepare the musical and to play a few songs of any genre better for it. The Battle of the Bands equipment before the evening. for their brothers. Acts included is proof that the Church is young and covers from Ed Sheeran to Lynard joyful. Rock on. n

34 The Pontifical North American College A Little Musical Mystagogy JONATHAN VALA '20, ARCHDIOCESE OF SYDNEY

his year marked the start The adoption of an all-out rejection of a new event in our of the “non-provable” is to say that College: the Classical nothing meaningful can be gleaned Concert. While a great from that which we know by our opportunity to encourage own human experience to be full Rev. Alfredo Porras '18 (Worcester) musicians in the house to pick up their of meaning: literature, language, doubles as flautist when the occasion Tdusty instruments again, and certainly culture and especially music. calls for it. a great boon for students and faculty alike, this evening ran deeper than just Good music is not an ignorant escape a moment of meaningless fun. from the “literally insignificant“, but life have stood for centuries as the a reaching of man for true meaning. muse par excellence of the Western The Dutch theologian Vincent Brümmer By music we feel ourselves able to musical corpus. One need not look far notes tellingly how “Today… many of graze the esse (being) lying far to find masterpieces such as Mozart’s us intuitively assume that all thinking beyond the limits of the facere Requiem, Bach’s Passion of Saint John is aimed at (empirically) extending our (doing), which contemporary society and Rachmaninoff’s self-acclaimed knowledge, that human beings are continually assures us is all that we greatest work, All-Night Vigil, to name mere knowing subjects and that reality can certainly know. A harmonious a few. Composers’ perennial grabbling is merely the object of knowledge”. tonal concatenation, the reappearance for transcendent beauty have led them, There is of course no issue in the of an emotionally charged leitmotif time and again, to consider at length the extension of scientific knowledge or that perfectly crafted recapitulation mysteries of God, and translate them (in fact, this should be encouraged!). does so much more than merely into systems of sound. If successful, However, if reliance upon principles entertain the listener: it becomes the the composer thereby ushers us, the of empirical falsification and means by which man approaches the hearers, into the shroud of obscurity verification for certainty is embraced veil that lies between ourselves and that surrounds these mysteries; not too jealously, we find ourselves falling Transcendent Beauty itself, even if to resolve their mysteriousness, to the notion that that which cannot only for a moment. but simply to revel for a time in be measured and proven is empty of their mystagogy. any meaningfulness or significance It makes sense, then, that the Scriptures, whatsoever. We cannot come to truth the Mass and the mysteries of Christ’s Religious themes haven’t captured except by passing through the gate the attention only of the Christian of the scientist, perennially guarded composer, however. Hector Berlioz’s by the gate-keeper of logic. The Infancy of Christ, Rimsky’s Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI states and Wagner’s The Love-Feast of the plainly against this contemporary Apostles are just some examples of tendency, which he designates the explicitly Christian truth-content “contemporary self-limiting of reason”, inspiring the creative process of even that we can in fact find meaning aside the most notorious atheist. I believe from that which yields to the rigorous that their fascination therewith is no accident. Music cannot help but point criteria of verification and falsification, Maxwell Carson '20 (Des Moines) puts and that this meaning may be as down the pick and plucks by hand to us to something beyond ourselves, reasonable as any empirical science. present a classical piece. and that is far from meaningless. n

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 35 In Memoriam: Rev. Robert Y. Blyman (1943-2019) LOUIS CONA ‘21, DIOCESE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE

few years after his Above all else, Fr. Blyman will be ordination on May 30, remembered for his faith, perseverance 1970 Fr. Blyman, through suffering, and witness to the inspired by St. Paul priesthood. The medical difficulties, VI’s encyclical surgeries, and frequent hospital visits Humanae Vitae, discovered a that characterized the later portion of “vocationA within a vocation” to his life configured him to Our Lord Seen here in 1998, Father Blyman serve the gift of life and promote on the Cross. gave counsel to hundreds of human dignity. Taking up medical seminarians, and taught them studies at the University of Michigan, As Fr. Blyman’s health declined over about the psychological and Fr. Blyman would go on to deliver the year, I would often check-in to pastoral issues they might over 300 children, counsel countless see how he was holding up. One day encounter as priests. married couples, and minister to his breathing was so difficult that he those who were ill. He soon realized, had to be rushed to the hospital. I will however, that the greatest difficulties always remember that on that day Fr. On January 11, 2019 Father of humanity were not ailments of Blyman, between painful and abrupt the body, but rather ailments of the breaths, clutched the crucifix on his Robert Blyman was buried soul. After switching medical fields, rosary and said that he was ready to at the cloistered Benedictine he earned his Ph.D as a psychiatrist, see the Trinity. It was a comment that complementing his priestly ministry revealed his great faith and hope, Abbey of Regina Laudis. with an extended outreach to souls but also his good humor as he made It was here almost fifty in need. the comment in reference to the exam for which all the first year years ago that Fr. Blyman’s Fr. Blyman’s generosity of spirit and seminarians were preparing for at vocation would take a new love for learning characterized his that time. entire priestly life. His magnanimity course that would forever of soul manifested itself when, upon With that quick comment he both shape his priesthood. As learning that the College was in need lightened the mood and placed of a House Counselor in 2017, he left everything in its proper perspective. he would often recount, retirement and moved to Rome. He In the end, this is why the North the Abbey was his anchor willingly transferred to Rome even American College exists: so that with serious medical difficulties we, and the people we will one day of stability amid the radical out of his love for the Church and serve as priests, may contemplate cultural changes of the dedication to forming holy and the mystery of the Trinity for all healthy priests. Generations of eternity. Thank you, Fr. Blyman, for late-1960s. seminarians and faculty members your love, sacrifice, and devotion to recall his joyful demeanor, great the priesthood and to the College. sense of humor, and passion for current events. Requiescat in pace. Tu es sacerdos in aeternam.

36 The Pontifical North American College Holy Week in the Steps of Pope St. John Paul II ALEX KOWALKOWSKI ‘20, DIOCESE OF GAYLORD

uring one of his and Wadowice (the hometown of St. Apostolic Journeys to John Paul II). Poland, Pope St. John Paul II remarked, “I Pope John Paul II mentioned in his am here among you as address, “I am invariably filled once a pilgrim, dear Brothers and Sisters, more with profound emotion.” For me, Dsons and daughters of our common the feeling was very similar. During the homeland. This is the sixth journey of weeks leading up to the pilgrimage, the Polish Pope to his native country. men of the seminary would ask, “Are But each time I am invariably filled you excited about your Easter plans?” once more with profound emotion. Each time, I would find myself unable Every return to Poland is like a return to restrain a toothy-grin. It was this to the family home, where the smallest same grin which I couldn’t hide upon objects remind us of what is closest arriving in Poland on Monday of Holy Fr. Daniel Hanley '05 (Arlington) offers and dearest to our hearts.” The Pope’s Week, though it was my fourth time. up the Eucharist before the image of words and experience of his beloved A large part of this joy came from our Lady of Czestochowa. homeland is something I could relate to being able to share the excitement and this past Holy Week on my pilgrimage patriotism I bear for my own ancestral Poland before studying in Rome as a to Poland with 30 brother seminarians homeland with brother seminarians. seminarian. While some of my close from the College. friends in high school and college Although the feeling remains somewhat seminary enjoyed learning about their of a mystery, each time I return to cultural heritage, I never understood Poland, I feel more grounded. Upon its inherent value. Thanks be to God, leaving, I have a sense of being it was having the gift of being able to “re-ordered” towards the goal: heaven. travel to Poland for the first time with Through my own experience, I wonder my parents two years ago, that I if others feel something similar when experienced true joy and happiness they return to their own ancestral even when first stepping off the plane. homelands. If it is the case, I could not recommend more that they attempt to Although my other three trips were journey to their native country or even significant and unique in their own Seminarians crowd in front of Calvary learn more about the heritage from way, this most recent trip is one I will Sanctuary in Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, which they descend. never forget as I was able to share my where Pope Saint John Paul II's father own love for Poland with the other men entrusted him to the Blessed Mother In our contemporary world, particularly on pilgrimage. While not only enjoying after the death of his natural mother. the United States, it can be easy to the country itself, the encounter with forget from whom or where we come. God during those most holy days of Fr. Daniel Hanley led and accompanied I have wondered that if one were to the year was a true grace. At the end us men around various cities in Poland learn more about or visit the lands of our trip, Fr. Hanley commented including: Kraków, Auschwitz, of their ancestors, if greater order or that it was one of the most prayerful Częstochowa (the site of the miraculous peace would prevail in their lives. For Holy Weeks he has experienced. I can image of Our Lady, Queen of Poland), me, I never had a great desire to visit heartily second that. n

ROMAN ECHOES 2019 • VOLUME 23: ISSUE 4 37 Economo’s Corner “An ounce of prevention… REV. KERRY ABBOTT, OFM CONV., ICTE '14

…is worth a pound of cure.” pale in comparison to the value of the lives, treasures, memories and Wise words that most people believe future they protect. There is a more refer to their physical health. The truth comprehensive overview of these is that when Benjamin Franklin first 2018/2019 projects provided for offered this adage to the world in you in another article in this issue 1735 he was urging his fellow citizens of Roman Echoes. in Pennsylvania to adopt measures for communal protection against As I conclude my fourth year as building fires. Economo, I never cease to be amazed at the vision of those that have Even so, Franklin’s exhortation gone before us whether it be in their could be applied to the vision that articulation of our primary mission has informed our Rector’s strategic in service to God and His Church fittings for solid wood doors, beautiful plan for many of the projects that have (the formation and education of brick, and mosaic tile. been undertaken and completed this good and holy priests), or the design year, and planned for next year, at and materials used to construct (in My parents, who were children of the both our Janiculum Hill campus and particular) the original buildings of Great Depression, taught me to never at the Casa Santa Maria. the Janiculum Hill campus. take anything of hearth and home for granted, and Saint Francis reminds Whether it be the installation of It is a magnificent incarnation of that us to care for all aspects of God’s fire retardant materials used in the vision that is entrusted to us to protect creation…all that comes to us from renovation of the Corso Auditorium, and build upon when one realizes that Him and for His glory. My deepest state of the art fire alarm and fire the seminary building was constructed gratitude to all you visionaries, the suppression systems in our workshops, soon after the conclusion of World centuries of benefactors, who allow our classrooms and our kitchens, or War II in a post-war Italy that was us to care for our beautiful College the replacement of water and weather struggling in so many ways. Yet those (more than an ounce of prevention to compromised roofs and walls (just visionaries provided work to hundreds be sure) so that we might proclaim to name a few)—as costly as these of our Italian neighbors, who used the greatest cure of all, the Gospel enterprises may be—these costs the finest materials available…brass of Jesus Christ! n

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38 The Pontifical North American College Institutional Advancement Our U.S. H.Q. MARK RANDALL, CFRE • EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ucked away on the third The OIA also serves as a US-based floor at the USCCB in point of contact for the College. Washington, DC is the Despite the conveniences of email and Office of Institutional reliable overseas phone service, some Advancement (OIA) for the things are just easier within the same North American College. While small country code! We assist the Bishop’s Tin staff size compared to the dozens who Office for U.S. Visitors to the Vatican work in Rome, the OIA nonetheless (which the College hosts in Rome) by contributes a great deal to the mission fielding hundreds of emails and calls of the College. From left: Andrea Malochee (Associate each year. The OIA also provides Director of Development), Mark Randall, assistance to vocation directors, bishops, The OIA oversees all of the fund CFRE (Executive Director), Lauren Hand tour operators, and media each month. development, marketing and (Advancement Operations Manager) And, our office works closely with the communication needs for the College; NAC Alumni Association by keeping we provide a US-based point of benefactors. Additionally, the OIA current addresses for our alumni and contact and information for benefactors, oversees the processing and acknowl- helping plan annual reunions. pilgrims, bishops, and dioceses; and edgement of thousands of donations we serve as a liaison for the Alumni each year, and the careful record- And finally, the OIA spearheads Association and the 4,000+ living keeping of each invested gift. We numerous special initiatives each alumni of the NAC. also coordinate all of the estate gifts year. For example, as the College received from and those requested of approaches her 160th anniversary Our first development office was our generous benefactors. on December 8, 2019, the OIA will established in the mid-70’s by Deacon be rolling out a variety of projects in Patrick Kennedy, and overseen in later Since most of our friends will never celebration of this grand milestone. years by the late Msgr. Roger Roench visit our campuses in Rome, we work ’58, and others. Since the tuition paid hard to “bring Rome, home” via our The OIA is over 4,000 miles away by bishops to send students to Rome marketing and communications from our “home office.” While we does not adequately cover our budget, programs. The OIA oversees the often miss being in the daily presence the College has always relied on the College website and all promotional of the seminarians and full community, generosity of the lay faithful in the materials. We facilitate the production each of us in the DC office feels blessed US, and our alumni, to help make and mailing of our quarterly magazine, to work for such an extraordinary our mission possible. Roman Echoes, working with the student apostolate. Working directly with team in Rome. And, we maintain our those who support this work – you, Today, the OIA team annually secures social media accounts, monthly dear reader – is even more of a funding for the College via direct mail, e-newsletters, media bulletins, blessing. Thank you for your grant requests, special events, and by and so on, to help our alumni and continued support! n close interaction with a host of major benefactors stay in touch.

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Prodigious scaffolding currently surrounds the College but water continues to spring from the courtyard fountain.

40 The Pontifical North American College