sign in sign up
<<
Home , Ignatius Jesuit Centre, Loyola House, Magis, Pedro Arrupe, Walsh Jesuit High School

USA MIDWEST PROVINCE | SPRING 2021

Midwest Jesuits Abroad Wisdom and Lessons from around the Globe

Also in This Issue: Celebrating 500 Years since St. Ignatius’s Conversion n Introducing New Provincial Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ Retirees Embark on Ignatian-inspired Journey Dear Friends,

I am humbled.

These are the words I used when I wrote my first message in this magazine as the first provincial of the newly formed USA Midwest Province. And they are just as true today—in this, my last message to you as provincial in Jesuits Magazine. I have been humbled to work with my Jesuit brothers and our lay collaborators to pursue our mission, and I have been humbled to experience the fruits of your prayers and support in all that we do.

I am pleased that Father General , SJ, has named Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, as our next provincial (see page 12). A proven leader, Fr. Kiser brings considerable pastoral and administrative gifts, along with international experience, to his role of caring for the Jesuits and the ministries of our province. I am equally grateful for his deep and abiding love for the Society of and its service to the Church.

One such mutual goal involves the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation dialogue that has been taking place among the , , and the Descendants of Jesuit Slaveholding (page 9). President of the Jesuit Conference, former Chicago-Detroit Provincial Timothy Kesicki, SJ, has been engaged in this vital work for several years; it is just now bearing fruit. The Descendants have invited us to partner with them on a common project—their vision of a new charitable foundation. While much work remains, this is an important moment as we embrace a partnership that seeks progress in healing racial divisions. If you are so moved, I invite you to join us in supporting this ambitious and important project which flows from the heart of the .

Briefly, this magazine has much more good news to share: a new program called the Ignatian Legacy Fellows (page 6); our cover story (page 8), which provides perspectives from Midwest Jesuits who are serving abroad; an up-and-coming playwright (page 13); a student leader in activism and (page 16); and several food industry professionals who have improvised during the pandemic (page 20).

Finally, we are celebrating as we embark on the Ignatian Year (page 4), which begins on May 20— the 500th anniversary of the date a cannonball hit Iñigo de Loyola and forever changed his life. This jubilee will be an opportunity to rediscover our roots, while considering the “cannonball moments” in our own lives, through which we might hear God calling us to our own conversion, as we endeavor “to see all things new in Christ.”

It is my prayer that you might experience such transformation as you ever deepen your relationship with God. And it is my fervent prayer that you know how grateful we are for your support of and participation in our mission.

In Christ,

V. Rev. Brian G. Paulson, SJ Provincial, USA Midwest Province MIDWEST ®

USA MIDWEST PROVINCE Spring 2021

Evangelizing Through Drama Page 13

ON THE COVER Midwest Jesuits are presently serving and studying in every corner of the world, as the Society of Jesus has done for centuries. Many of the locales mentioned in the story can be found on the cover. How many can you find? Imanol Ruiz, graduate of Cristo Rey Jesuit High Milwaukee, emphasizes the importance of his Jesuit education in his success as a playwright. Illustration: Jacqui Langeland

Photo: Jeff Zmania For additional content and more information, connect with us online: WWW.JESUITSMIDWEST.ORG Page 8 Page 12 Close Encounters of the Global Kind Passing the Torch to Set the World on Midwest Jesuits share lessons and Fire reflections from their time abroad. As the V. Rev. Brian Paulson, SJ, takes Search “Midwest Jesuits” on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Instagram on the role of president at the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United Visit our photo galleries at midwestjesuits.smugmug.com States, the Midwest Jesuits welcome Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, as the new provincial. JOIN THE JESUIT PRAYER COMMUNITY! Page 15 Page 24 JesuitPrayer.org From the Earliest Days of Jesuit A Pastoral Workhorse Education Father Stan Czarnecki, SJ, spreads joy ■ Daily Scripture, Ignatian The Pontifical Gregorian University, with his various forms of ministry. reflection, and Ignatian established by St. Ignatius, turns 470 prayer years old in 2021. ■ Free iPhone, iPad, and Android Apps ■ Submit a prayer request ■ Download prayer cards ■ Free daily email ■ Translation now available ALSO IN THIS ISSUE Shop for Mass and Special Occasion Cards at News...... 2 A Heart on Fire...... 14 In Memoriam...... 22 Store.JesuitsMidwest.org Special: Ignatian Year...... 4 Education...... 16 Assignments...... 23 Spirituality...... 6 A Jesuit’s Journey...... 18 Advancement...... 25 Reconciliation...... 7 Arts & Culture...... 20 NEWS

Loyola University Chicago’s 3,100-square-foot The Jesuits celebrated 100 years of working in Patna, Colleen M. Hanycz, PhD greenhouse, the Ecodome India, on March 3, 2021. Loyola University Chicago The Jesuits Celebrate 100 Years Xavier University Names First Launches School of of Working in Patna Female, Lay President Environmental Sustainability This year, the Society of Jesus is celebrating Xavier University has announced that Colleen Loyola University Chicago has formally the 100th anniversary of Jesuits working in M. Hanycz, PhD, will serve as the 35th announced the launch of its new School Patna, India. Many American Jesuits have left president of Xavier University, starting July 1, of Environmental Sustainability (SES), the their mark over the century, such as Jesuit Frs. 2021. Dr. Hanycz’s leadership, academic first school dedicated to environmental Ed Daly in catechetics formation, Bob Grib’s credentials, character, and commitment sustainability among Jesuit institutions teaching Hindi to young Jesuits, and Robert to Catholic higher education highlight her worldwide. Stegman, who designed and constructed many ability to serve as its next president and lead The school will build on the foundation of landmark buildings in the Patna Province. Xavier into the future. Dr. Hanycz currently the Institute of Environmental Sustainability The first Jesuits actually came to Patna serves as president of La Salle University in (IES). IES has demonstrated success at the 400 years ago, in 1620, from neighboring , a Lasallian, Catholic university. undergraduate level and, more recently, the Bengal. That mission didn’t last, but in 1919, Prior to that, she served for seven years as graduate level, putting Loyola on the map Benedict XV created the Patna Diocese principal (president) of Brescia University as a leader in environmental sustainability. under the auspices of the Jesuits of the College in London, Ontario, Canada, a Catholic Other achievements of the Institute include Missouri Province. women’s university in the Ursuline tradition. the founding of an annual climate change On March 16, 1921, Jesuit Frs. William “Xavier’s lived mission is deeply appealing conference, the establishment of the student- Eline, Henry Milen, Patrick Troy, Thomas to me,” Dr. Hanycz noted. “As a Jesuit, run farmers’ market and greenhouse, and Kelley, and Edward Anderson arrived in Patna Catholic university committed to serving the development of hand sanitizer during the as the first American Jesuits and laid the society by forming students intellectually, COVID-19 pandemic. foundation for the advances we see today. morally, and spiritually for lives of solidarity The school’s five-year plan advances As decades passed, Jesuits in Patna focused and service, Xavier’s values strongly align Loyola’s vision of amplifying and on serving the poor, founding and nurturing with my own. Building on the tremendous enhancing cross-school interdisciplinary numerous Christian faith communities, legacy of Fr. Michael Graham, SJ, I am excited collaborations, scholarship, and research. spreading education, promoting economic to partner with Xavier’s community in writing The plan includes the establishment of development, and feeding hungry mouths so the next chapter in its storied history.” five new interdisciplinary areas of study; that they could, in turn, feed their souls. Dr. Hanycz will become the first lay and development of interdisciplinary research and Today Patna serves 328 million people first female president in Xavier’s 190-year scholarship across schools; the goal of nearly in the two least-developed states of North history. Dr. Hanycz has done this before, tripling SES undergraduate and graduate India. This great need offers both challenges serving as both firsts for La Salle as well. A enrollments; expansion of graduate student and opportunities. The Patna Province faces a former associate professor of law, Dr. Hanycz research; increased research funding and decline in resources and in Jesuit candidates possesses an excellent teaching and academic publication; growth of professional seminar while also staring down potential opposition background with a demonstrated passion for and conference offerings; and employment and persecution from fundamentalist forces. student-centered education. opportunities with hires in each department The challenges are real and great, but so, too, to increase diversity of faculty and staff and is the vision for the future. fortify interdisciplinary research teams. Watch Fr. Brian Paulson’s message to Patna at JesuitsMidwest.org/Patna100

Page 2 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 JESUIT CONNECTIONS

Stephanie Ibemere, PhD, RN Hometown: Tulsa, OK School(s) Attended: Xavier University and University of Cincinnati Profession: Postdoctoral Fellow-Nurse Creighton president Fr. Daniel Hendrickson, SJ, (left) Scientist with board of trustees chair Mike McCarthy (right) How did you get involved with the Jesuits? Creighton University Receives $25 Million Gift to Establish I first learned about the Jesuits during my college search. Once I was accepted to Global Medical Program Xavier University, I remember seeing the Creighton University is set to become the course requirements for my degrees, and largest Catholic health sciences educator in I thought, “This is going to be quite the the . The university has received experience.” Getting to take philosophy, a transformational $25 million gift from an theology, and ethics-related courses as a anonymous foundation to establish the Arrupe science major produced an environment the value of and , both Global Scholars and Partnerships Program. in which I could begin my process of values I had seen in Fr. B but hadn’t truly Named for Fr. , SJ, 28th addressing health inequities. The idea of understood. Superior General of the Society of Jesus and living our lives as human beings in solidarity founder of the , the for and with others enlivened my spirit, How do you bring Jesuit values into the program seeks to improve the health and well- as this is a paradigm I was familiar with workplace? being of the international poor and to educate from my Nigerian background and in the future servant-leader physicians. The gift South African philosophy of Ubuntu. As I While at Xavier, I was selected to be a will support 10 cohorts of 12 students from grew in my understanding of science, my student participant for the Guatemala Creighton’s medical programs in both Omaha involvement with the Jesuits increased interfaith medical service trip founded in the and Phoenix over 10 years beginning in 2022. my understanding of myself, my role in the former Office of Interfaith and Community Arrupe Global Scholars will earn a medical greater community, and how my hopes for a Engagement by Rabbi Abie Ingber. After a degree while working alongside international more just world could be realized. transformative experience in the western health care workers and Creighton faculty highlands of Guatemala, I was asked to on multiyear projects aimed at addressing How have the Jesuits impacted your life? join the medical team as its triage nurse. significant health challenges in locations The Jesuits and their teachings have really This opportunity galvanized my opportunity around the world. become part of my life “scaffolding.” If I to engage in “service rooted in justice and “Creighton is known for producing were to name one Jesuit in particular, it love,” through the value of cura personalis. physicians committed to the Jesuit value of would be Fr. Al Bischoff, SJ. Seeing him on My involvement in this work also rekindled caring for the whole patient—mind, body, and campus always meant I was going to have a my deepest desire of learning more about spirit. Our graduates then go on to careers in good day. He really is an embodiment of how creating justice in global health so that I which service for and with others is central to show compassion and genuine interest could return to West Africa and partner to their practices,” said Michael Kavan, PhD, in your fellow human being. From him, I with local communities who wished to build associate dean for student affairs at the learned what it means to ask the question, healthcare capacity. Much of my research Creighton University School of Medicine. “How are you?” and to take the time to and activism is influenced by my time at “The Arrupe Global Scholars and Partnerships listen to the response. My experience as Xavier and Jesuit values. My research focus Program will build upon this foundation in an undergraduate solidified my decision is aimed at improving health inequities forming future doctors who consciously and to return and complete a second-degree rooted in social injustices affecting our compassionately care for some of the world’s nursing program as a graduate student. It global family. most vulnerable populations.” was in this program I learned more about

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 3 SPECIAL: IGNATIAN YEAR From Worldly Cavalier to Limping Pilgrim to Spiritual Leader

By Amy Korpi

Society of Jesus ay 20, 2021—the 500th anniversary Father Arturo Sosa, Superior General Mof the date a cannonball hit of the Society of Jesus, has said, “It is my prepares to Iñigo de Loyola and forever changed hope and desire that we can work together his life—the Society of Jesus and the among the entire Ignatian family will start a worldwide Ignatian family rediscover its celebration: the Ignatian Year. This to celebrate this jubilee will include March 12, 2022, (the year, rediscover founder’s legacy 400th anniversary of the canonization our roots, and IGNATIUS 500 of St. and St. Francis thus renew and inspiration Xavier), and end with St. Ignatius’s feast ourselves and our outlook to the world.” day on July 31, 2022. He has called the Ignatian Year an during “Ignatian opportunity for people today to have an The Portuguese Province will be publishing a experience of conversion—to consider Year” Portuguese translation of the comic on the life of St. the “cannonball moments” in our own Ignatius, in collaboration with the youth ministry of lives, through which we might hear God the province. The original is in German: Ignatius - Auf der Suche nach mehr (Ignatius - Looking for More). calling us to transform our own mission. The theme of the celebration is “to see all things new in Christ.” Activities will aim to deepen the Ignatian family’s understanding of and focus on the Universal Apostolic Preferences—the preferences that orient the Society of Jesus toward areas that are vital for our world today.

WHAT IS A CANNONBALL MOMENT? Sometimes epiphanies come from unexpected moments, and a perceived

Page 4 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 SPECIAL: IGNATIAN YEAR

Fortunately, the French admired his courage. Instead of taking him to prison, they treated his injuries and carried him to the castle of Loyola. When doctors realized his leg was not healing properly, they broke it again and reset it. By this point, his strength began to fail, and he received last rites. Amazingly, he survived. But all was still not well. Because of the way his bones settled, one protruded below the knee. He “could not bear this,” according to his autobiography, “since he intended to live a life at court.” So, he asked for the bone to be cut off. Although the doctors warned Ignatius Catholic Life Communities will organize a world that “it would cause him more suffering meeting of youth entitled “Embrace the World in than all that had preceded,” vanity an Ignatian Way.” The meeting will take place in Loyola, , and will be broadcast completely prevailed, and he endured the torture. online July 29–31. Details will be shared on our As Ignatius recovered, he became social media and website later this spring. bored and restless and asked for some He began with elementary grammar romance novels to pass the time. All that lessons and moved on to studies at the could be found were The Life of Christ universities of Alcalá and Salamanca. failure prompts a new way of life. and Flowers of the . While these Eventually, he came to study at the Such was the case for Ignatius. In readings caused him to meditate more on University of Paris, where he met fellow what is now known as his “cannonball holy things, he still returned to “what he students, including and moment,” Ignatius experienced a should do in honor of an illustrious lady.” , who would become the calamity that marked the beginning of This doesn’t sound like the St. Ignatius first members of the Society of Jesus. a new purpose—a spiritual journey of we know today, does it? “It took many setbacks, crises, and conversion to follow Christ more closely, But God works patiently. Those challenges to form St. Ignatius out of and, ultimately, a catalyst to establish the readings about the life of Jesus and Iñigo de Loyola,” Fr. Brian Paulson, Society of Jesus. the saints began to make inroads into SJ, provincial of the Midwest Jesuits, Ignatius’s way of thinking. says. “But his cannonball moment had THE STORY IN BRIEF As his autobiography tells us, an impact with great significance, not From the time he was young, Ignatius eventually his “eyes were opened to the only for Ignatius, or even the Jesuits, but had been a vain courtier seeking military vanity of life and the reality of eternity for all who have drawn from Ignatian prowess, excitement, material wealth, and compared with the worldliness of the life spirituality in their own faith journey, and glory. While he was a practicing Catholic, he had been leading…” for the Church at large. What perhaps he fashioned himself more as a soldier His transformation was underway, and is most important for us at this time, and a ladies’ man—an ambitious knight the question was now how to live out however, is the idea that we can all on the move in sixteenth-century Europe. his new purpose. He set off by himself, experience events which trigger a form That was until the Battle of . first as an ascetic in Spain and then as a of conversion, a desire to see things new While fighting for the Spanish against a pilgrim to the Holy Land. Forced to go in Christ. In short, anyone can be hit by a French army, Ignatius—who was by then home by the authorities in Jerusalem, cannonball.” @ a captain of infantry—convinced some however, his second career evaporated. compatriots that they must hold out, even Ignatius was persistent, though. As he though the cause was hopeless and most says in his autobiography, after learning others had given up. Then, after a six- “that it was God’s will that he should Amy Korpi, a freelance writer hour bombardment, an event took place not stay in Jerusalem, he pondered in with two degrees from Marquette his heart what he should do and finally University, is now based in Green that would change Ignatius’s life forever: Bay, Wisconsin. She has been a cannonball shattered one of his knees decided to study for a time in order to be working with the Jesuits since and severely wounded the other. able to help souls.” 1998.

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 5 SPIRITUALITY

The Ignatian Legacy Fellows with undergraduate students at What Do You Ask of Me Now, God? Mariann Salisbury and By Patrick Kennedy Fr. Michael Garanzini, SJ

he retirement party has concluded, experience the global Jesuit mission, from almost day one. When we launched Tthe new home office has been set up, interacting with young people engaged the program, we thought this might be but for what? So many retired or semi- in Jesuit-sponsored works, and making something for people with a great deal yet retired people who have experienced a pilgrimage to walk in the steps of St. to give. The program fellows will tell you rich careers, sticky problems to solve, Ignatius of Loyola. The meaningful that we’re meeting that need and goal.” people to care for, or businesses to journey begins with a turn inward, John Fontana, co-founder of the build, find themselves asking the critical is strengthened by peer support, and Ignatian Legacy Fellows, says that question—what now? One person spoke establishes new relationships within the participants have found tremendous of calculating how many days are left broader community. It is an Ignatian- comfort in working toward what they on the earth for him (given the average inspired journey that invites people of all see as their personal capstone project. age of death for a male) and how many faiths. As co-founder Mariann Salisbury He sums it up with yet another complex subsequent hours. One person described aptly describes it, “It’s not retiring, it’s question, “Will I pass the final test?” the profound sense of loss of meaning and rewiring.” For more information about the intention. Another spoke of flailing from The program has demonstrated early Ignatian Legacy Fellows, visit their one possible new business to another success, forming people who have website at LUC.edu/ILF or contact and yet feeling empty. But the critical found new passions and reconnected to co-directors Mariann Salisbury at question remained—how to best spend Ignatian spirituality. Participants describe [email protected] or John Fontana at those days. feeling newly prepared for “doing” [email protected]. @ Ignatian Legacy Fellows is a new versus “being.” It inspires the next program that aims to help people find push to utilize one’s God-given talents those answers. The first cohorts have and energies for good. Father Michael Patrick Kennedy, is a major gift come together six times over the course Garanzini, SJ, says, “It’s been a privilege officer for the Midwest Jesuits of a calendar year to explore the meaning for me to accompany the Ignatian Fellows based in Chicago. He is a native of of retirement and the opportunities that on their journey—a true pilgrimage with Kankakee, Illinois, and a graduate of Villanova University and the lie ahead. The program involves peer friends and like-minded sojourners. University of San Francisco. meetings, traveling to apostolates to We’ve become a supportive community

Page 6 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 RECONCILIATION

Descendants of Jesuit Slaveholding and Jesuits of the United States Announce Historic Partnership n a landmark undertaking in the men, women and Ipursuit of racial healing and justice, children were sold Descendants of ancestors enslaved by the Jesuit owners and sold by the Jesuits, together with of Georgetown the Jesuits of the United States, have University to announced a partnership to create the plantation owners Descendants Truth & Reconciliation in Louisiana. “Our Descendants Earl Williams Sr., Cheryllyn Branche, Foundation. shameful history of and Joseph Stewart, pictured with Father General The Foundation is a first-of-its-kind Jesuit slaveholding Arturo Sosa, SJ, and Fr. Timothy Kesicki, SJ partnership among the Descendants of in the United States the enslaved and the descendants of the has been taken off enslavers. JPMorgan Chase is a supporter the dusty shelf, and it can never be put years of a powerful dialogue process. of this historic partnership. back,” said Fr. Tim Kesicki, SJ, president In April of 2017, Fr. Kesicki publicly “For more than 400 years, our of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and apologized for Jesuit slaveholding at a country has denied the persistent the United States and former provincial Liturgy of Memory, Contrition and Hope human destruction caused by slavery of the Chicago-Detroit Province Jesuits. at Georgetown University. In May of and the conscious and unconscious “Racism will endure in America if we 2017, about a year after learning of their racism that divides our communities continue to turn our heads away from the connection to this tragic and sinful past, and nation,” said Joseph Stewart, acting truth of the past and how it affects us all Descendant leaders petitioned Fr. Arturo president of the Descendants Truth & today. The lasting effects of slavery call Sosa, SJ, Superior General of the Society Reconciliation Foundation and one each of us to do the work of truth and of Jesus, to respond. of more than 1,000 Descendants of reconciliation. Without this joining of Father Sosa responded to the Isaac Hawkins, an enslaved man who, hearts and hands in true unity, the cycle Descendants’ letter, writing, “Jesuit along with many other enslaved men, of hatred and inequality in America will slaveholding in the United States, and women, and children, was sold to save never end.” in particular the sale of 272 enslaved Georgetown University from financial Citizens Bank of New Orleans, later persons from the Jesuits in southern ruin. “After 182 years, Descendants and acquired by JPMorgan Chase, used the Maryland to purchasers in Louisiana, Jesuits have come together in the spirit of 272 enslaved humans as collateral. The was both a sin and a betrayal because truth, racial healing, and reconciliation, Foundation has set up a trust for which uniquely positioning the Descendants JPMorgan Chase will serve as a co- the Society robbed your ancestors Truth & Reconciliation Foundation to set trustee and provide planning and advice of their human dignity.” Father Sosa an example and lead America through as well as other services. “The institution called the US provincials to dialogue dismantling the remnants of slavery and of slavery and systemic racism are tragic with the Descendants. In the summer of mitigating the presence of racism. Our parts of America’s history, and we have a 2018, soon after receiving the Superior partnership will pursue and support the responsibility to drive sustainable change General’s letter, Mr. Stewart called Fr. creation of a new and abiding reality of for the people and communities who have Kesicki, and the two met in person at Mr. love and justice for all members of our been impacted by this bitter legacy,” said Stewart’s home in Michigan. one humanity.” Brian Lamb, the global head of diversity A life-long partnership and a shared The Foundation is rooted in the and inclusion at JPMorgan Chase. commitment to transformation and events of 1838, when 272 enslaved This announcement comes after several conversion emerged from this process. @

More information, including a video message from Midwest Jesuits Provincial V. Rev. Brian Paulson, is available at JesuitsMidwest.org/Descendants

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 7 SOCIAL & INTERNATIONAL

Garrett Gundlach, SJ, participates in a fundraising walk for the Lebanon branch of Filipino Church initiative Couples for Christ (CFC) with the community from his local Jesuit parish’s English-speaking Sunday Mass.

Close Encounters Lessons of the Global Kind from Abroad “The world is our home.” By Amy Korpi — Fr. Jerónimo Nadal, SJ (1507-1580)

ccording to José Casanova of respectful human conversation, Tantur’s this land and its peoples. AGeorgetown University’s Berkley setting is ideal for promoting a greater Father Paul explains, “Here I am Center for Religion, Peace and World understanding of the richness of the surrounded by sounds and spiritual Affairs, the Jesuits were the first religious, ethnic, and cultural traditions of practices of three Abrahamic traditions organized group in history to think and act globally. As such, he writes that the Society “embodied what [] so frequently evokes as a ‘culture of encounter’ and a ‘culture of dialogue,’ within and between peoples as the only way to peace in our globalized world.” Midwest Jesuits, continuing that tradition in other countries today, have some insights. BUILDING BRIDGES IN ISRAEL In his years as a Jesuit, Fr. John Paul, SJ, has engaged in various ministries that broadened his cultural horizons. He is currently missioned as rector at the Tantur Ecumenical Institute on the southern El Agustino in Lima, Peru edge of East Jerusalem. Founded to build bridges through ecumenical dialogue and

Page 8 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 SOCIAL & INTERNATIONAL

that keep me conscious of being in the presence of the Holy One, and of how my mission is to provide an ‘oasis of encounter’ with holy sites, traditions, and people for participants in our programs offering personal renewal, continuing education, and scholarly writing or research.” It enhances his own spiritual life as well. “Five times a day,” says Fr. Paul, “I become aware of the Islamic call to prayer, broadcast from minaret towers, and I am reminded of my own call to prayer. Each Friday evening and Saturday, I become aware of how Father Paul Mueller, SJ, currently serves as vice Jerusalem becomes ‘silent’ in observance director of the Vatican Observatory in Castel Gandolfo, of keeping the Sabbath and am invited to Italy. find ways to ‘keep Shabbat.’ On Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings, I Photo: CNS hear church bells from a nearby Greek to me, and to appreciate those differences first encountered locally. Certain Orthodox monastery as well as Greek as gifts,” he says. “In addition, interacting histories and needs where you are in the Catholic, Roman Catholic, and Orthodox regularly with Vatican personnel, even moment require both a deep knowledge churches in Bethlehem and adjoining occasionally with Pope Francis, I have of tradition and nimble adaptation to cities, and I am reminded of a risen Lord come to appreciate more deeply that circumstances. The Church in England is inviting me to encounter him in the the Church is Christ’s mystical body, hungry for God and open to discovering breaking of the bread of fellowship.” recapitulating his incarnation. At all Christ’s call anew, but the religious CULTURAL SIMILARITIES AND levels, the Church is a very human sensibilities of Catholicism are radically DIFFERENCES IN ITALY institution.” different from those in the United States. To be Catholic here is to be in the Father Kevin Flannery, SJ, is a consultor HUNGRY FOR GOD IN ENGLAND minority, with a history of persecution for the Holy See’s Congregation for the While studying abroad, Fr. Joseph and martyrdom looming large.” As a Doctrine of the Faith and a professor Simmons, SJ, has been reminded of nod to this history, Fr. Simmons has at the Pontifical Gregorian University, how “the universal Church is always celebrated Mass at the chapel of the which hosts students from over 100 family who protected St. Edmund nations each year. “This means that my Campion, SJ, before his capture and students invariably have cultural and execution. educational backgrounds that are unlike my own, forcing me to be attentive to our INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR differences,” he says. “Yet their spiritual JOURNEYS IN SPAIN AND PERU struggles are common to all who are Working on a doctorate at Comillas trying to live lives for others and for God. Pontifical University in , Fr. Cultural differences do enter in, but the Christopher Staab, SJ, is studying St. spiritual issues are, in the end, the same Ignatius of Loyola’s Spiritual Diary— for all.” written by the Jesuits’ founder about As Jesuit community superior and vice his intimate experiences with God and director at the Vatican Observatory, Fr. God’s responses to his questions about Paul Mueller, SJ, has found that living the Society’s structure. “This was at a with Jesuits from ten different countries time when he was no longer traveling; can present many opportunities for cross- his journey was interior,” says Fr. Staab. cultural misunderstandings. “Daily life “As I write my thesis, my journey is also itself is teaching me to be patient with Fr. Joseph Simmons, SJ interior and, though it is not a spiritual behaviors and practices that seem strange diary, I hope my thesis can share the same

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 9 SOCIAL & INTERNATIONAL

terrain as Ignatius’s text, as one seeking to mission of the Church and the Jesuits is make explicit the God who communicates to build a more just society where all can ITE, INFLAMMATE OMNIA deeply with the human person.” live with the dignity of God’s children. Roughly translated as “go forth and set There is certainly an exterior aspect to The experience of the faith of the poor, the world on fire,” this phrase has often Fr. Staab’s current journey as well. He and accompanying Jesuits in formation been attributed to St. Ignatius of Loyola lives in a formation house, accompanying and men and women who dedicate their 12 young Jesuits from Malaysia, India, lives that others might have greater life, upon sending his friend and fellow Jesuit Europe, and the Americas, and says, allow me to glimpse the Lord who lives Francis Xavier to the missions in India. “We are learning not just to pass through in our midst.” It’s also been said that St. Ignatius Madrid on our way Father James often ended his letters with the phrase. to another mission, M. O’Leary, SJ, Modern scholars tell us this isn’t but to accompany Despite diverse backgrounds also served in quite the case—but no matter. One of the men and women and interests, we have found Peru for many of this city, who are common ground, especially years—largely in a the last surviving Jesuits to have known so deeply affected in the desire to find God in popular education Ignatius credited the founder of the by the pandemic. all things. We live a unity movement called Society of Jesus with the saying and We are pilgrims, that transcends language and Fe y Alegría (faith claimed that when St. Ignatius missioned like Ignatius, and culture. and joy)—until he a Jesuit somewhere to cultivate the Lord’s it is in this place was missioned to vineyard, he told them, “Go, ignite and that our interior serve as chaplain, inflame all things.” and exterior journey to God with others campus minister, and theology professor continues to emerge.” at Louis University’s Madrid As such, it’s become common tradition On March 15, 2020, after celebrating campus. Reflecting on these experiences, to accept that, regardless of the specific Mass in a poor area of Lima called “El he notes, “In Peru, it’s more common to words Ignatius might have used, he Agustino,” Fr. Kevin Flaherty, SJ, told talk about your faith. In Spain, people wanted—as Jim Manney writes— parishioners that liturgies would be will certainly attend a procession, but “everyone to be set afire with passion and suspended due to the pandemic. Since fewer are going to church. Those who zeal for the Kingdom of God.” then, the area has been hit especially do practice are very committed to hard; many families have lost loved ones social justice. No matter where I am, Saint Ignatius went so far as to encode and been pushed deeper into poverty. though, I find that when we trust God, this in the Constitutions: “The aim and “Yet, while the people are economically no matter what happens, we are held and end of this Society is, by traveling through poor, they are rich in spirit,” says Fr. loved. It helps me to be less fearful and the various parts of the world…to preach, Flaherty. “Their faith and resilience preoccupied—and more generous and hear confessions, and use all the other remind me why I am in Peru, and how the empathetic.” means it can with the grace of God to help souls.” But such preaching most definitely did not prevent engaging in dialogue and adapting to the cultures where the Jesuits visited. For example, Alessandro Valignano, SJ (1539–1606), known as the architect of the missions in Asia, recognized that cross- cultural engagement and exchange was necessary for the Jesuits to be successful. They needed to fit into the local culture, and not the other way around, by learning native languages and customs and treating Fr. O’Leary at SLU-Madrid’s 2020 Mass of the Holy new converts with respect. Spirit

Page 10 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 SOCIAL & INTERNATIONAL

CONSOLATION AMIDST DESOLATION IN LEBANON In addition to his daily Arabic studies, once a week Garrett Gundlach, SJ, heads to Beirut’s Karantina neighborhood— which was heavily damaged by the city’s port explosion in August—where he makes giant pots of soup for workers rebuilding. While doing so, he is “trying to find [his] feet in a new language, a new culture, and the unfolding reality of political instability, economic crisis, coronavirus, and explosion healing,” he says. “Even our community’s daily Mass is new to me, with the language and the flow of the Byzantine (Greek Melkite) or in Ontario, Canada Maronite rites; what I knew primarily as a place of restful prayer has become a place to learn.” priority of working with youth. It is have found common ground, especially “So, my daily Examens their energy that will help us to be more in the desire to find God in all things. We and our house’s monthly audacious in our hopes.” live a unity that transcends language and faith sharing have become “I have also found consolation in my culture.” the graced places where ministry with JRS,” he adds. “Many I can prayerfully unpack of my colleagues are refugees, and UNEXPECTED INVIGORATION IN all this newness, they have taught me the importance CANADA recalibrating for the of accompaniment in ministry, that next day or month,” “Prior to the pandemic, the world came ministry is dynamic, that those being Gundlach says. “I haven’t to , and people of other continents served always teach something to those always done this so well, introduced me to different emphases of who are serving, and that the ability to pushing myself to learn praying,” says Fr. Paul Panaretos, SJ, give something is itself a gift from God. faster and do more. But of the ministry at Ignatius Jesuit Centre Finally, my life in community here has the simplicity, strength, in Ontario. Yet, even if COVID-19 has made me marvel at this vocation. Despite and playful joy of our prompted physical isolation, it has not diverse backgrounds and interests, we neighbors always remind stopped the ministry nor the opportunity me of a slower, better for profound insights. “Electronic platforms help us stay By Jacqui Langeland road—a marathon, not a sprint; together, not alone; connected with people seeking ongoing small steps, not miracle solutions.” direction, and online retreats continually Ryan Birjoo, SJ, is also missioned to demonstrate St. Ignatius’s conviction Beirut, studying Arabic and working that God personally communicates with with the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS). individuals seeking God,” explains “Arriving shortly after the blast, I Fr. Panaretos. “Further, within our witnessed the resilience of people community, our prayer, faith sharing, and confronting great challenges with real daily care for one another have deepened solidarity,” he recalls. “Consolation our union and compassion. Learning amidst desolation is a recurring theme— to detect God’s presence during the such as when I was clearing rubble pandemic has been a source of spiritual with some university students, and they aching and unexpected invigoration.” @ expressed their desires for a better future. Their excitement was tangible, and I Father John Paul, SJ, serves as rector at the Tantur Ecumenical Institute in Jerusalem. understood why we have the apostolic

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 11 LEADERSHIP

Father Karl Kiser, SJ, served as president of University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy for 14 years prior to being named pastor of Gesu Parish in University Heights, . Passing the Torch to Set the World on Fire

By Grace Rice Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, to side of the province, on the Pine Ridge for 14 years. There, Fr. Kiser developed Indian Reservation in South Dakota, his own leadership style, one that is succeed V. Rev. Brian Jesuits Fr. Joe Daoust and Br. Mike deeply rooted in his faith: “I like inspiring Paulson, SJ, as provincial Baranek, both originally from the former people around a vision, and I like finding of the Midwest Jesuits Chicago-Detroit Province, make their new ways of serving and thinking.” own meaningful contributions in ministry. Coming from a pastoral role, Fr. Kiser is As Fr. Paulson comes to the end of prepared to incorporate the Gospel into hough he had been a Jesuit in the his term as provincial, his leadership his vision. “It’s very important to me that Chicago area for nearly 40 years and T will span an even larger area, as he is to first and foremost, we’re centered around is a native of the suburb of Waukegan, succeed Midwest Jesuit Fr. Tim Kesicki the Gospel, and we’re aiming to spread Illinois, for the V. Rev. Brian Paulson, as president of the Jesuit Conference of and preach the Gospel,” he says. SJ, serving as provincial of the Midwest Canada and the United States. The end Father Kiser’s goals for the province Jesuits was uncharted territory. The of Fr. Paulson’s time as provincial is stem from this, as he notes that the Midwest Province had only just been bittersweet, as he is excited to take on primary job of the provincial is to care for created in 2017 by combining the new responsibilities: “I will certainly the Jesuits in the province through cura former Wisconsin and Chicago-Detroit miss the work and people here, but as personalis—care of the whole person. Provinces. As its first provincial, Fr. provincial, I have taken great consolation Regarding specific goals, Fr. Kiser says, Paulson was tasked with not only leading in the times when I have been able to be “I think that Jesuits, Ignatian spirituality, but also with unifying the men and part of successful international, inter- and the Jesuit vocation have particularly works of the former provinces, which are provincial cooperation, and I know that deep and powerful gifts, gifts that are spread across 12 states. Reflecting on this will continue on the Conference-president deep and powerful in a way that the world mission, Fr. Paulson says, “I am pleased level. I look forward to getting involved needs today.” As we go forward, Fr. Kiser with the sense of mutual trust and support in conversations about sharing men and says, “My number one goal would be to Jesuits in the Midwest have across resources.” ask, ‘How do we leverage our talents and the territory regardless of the original Father Paulson is guided by his faith our institutions to meet the needs of a province in which they entered.” and Ignatian principles in his leadership, Church that’s struggling today?’” @ Father Paulson notes that Jesuits as he says, “Ignatian governance is from the former Wisconsin Province, supposed to be rooted in the manifestation comprising the north and west sides of of conscience.” the new province, are now making a Incoming provincial Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, Grace Rice is a journalist based in Chicago and a graduate of big, positive difference in cities on the joins the province office from Cleveland, Boston College, where she was eastern side of the province; he provides where he has served as pastor of Gesu editor-in-chief of The Rock. examples such as Jesuit Frs. Nathan Parish. Prior to his service as a pastor, Currently, she works as assistant director of communications for the Wendt, Paul Lickteig, and Tom Manahan, Fr. Kiser was president at University of Midwest Jesuits. all working in Cincinnati. On the other Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy

Page 12 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 LIVING THE MAGIS

Imanol Ruiz finds the Basilica of St. Josaphat in Milwaukee to be a source of inspiration. Ruiz says, “The Basilica was built by immigrants, so to me it is an example of what immigrants can accomplish and the limitless possibilities of what we can do with our lives. It also serves as a depiction of the beauty and magnitude, which is the .” Evangelizing Through Drama

Photo: Jeff Zmania By Kristine Mackey

rom the mid-16th century, through the disguised as a farmer. In a dramatic Fitzpatrick and Mary Ristow-Dey, with Fsuppression of the Society of Jesus moment Llorente, who was a father teaching him critical life skills. Ristow- in 1773 and beyond, Jesuit colleges in figure to Castro for years, pleads with Dey, herself a practicing Lutheran, helped Europe led the way in the arts, turning him to abandon the revolution. Castro, him to understand and tap into his faith out famous playwrights including Joseph offended and enraged, sends him away, more deeply. His transition to college has Simeon, Pierre Corneille, and Molière. leaving Llorente to pray for Castro’s soul. been supported by the All in Milwaukee In 2021, theater and the inspiration it The relationship continues for decades, program and by his mentors there, Bill provides for students in Jesuit schools despite Castro’s expulsion of the Society and Sandy Haack. The Haacks say, continue to thrive. Imanol Ruiz’s story of Jesus from Cuba in 1961. Later in life, “Imanol is a self-starter, mature beyond is a testament to the enduring legacy of in many situations, Llorente, who has his years. We are hoping to help him these Jesuit contributions. since emigrated to Miami, humanizes achieve his potential.” Ruiz, the son of a hardworking, faith- Castro even as the world demonizes him. Currently a theater student at the filled immigrant family and a ’20 graduate This conflict, imagined and animated by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, of Cristo Rey Jesuit High Milwaukee, Ruiz, becomes the heart and the soul of Ruiz is developing that potential. He grew up in the city’s historic Mitchell the play. hopes to widen his artistic repertoire by Street neighborhood. His parents, Ruiz did not always see himself as writing screenplays, working on films, originally from Santiago Maravatío in an artist nor as a strong self-advocate. and building his technical skills. Ruiz Guanajuato, Mexico, immigrated to the During his senior year at Cristo says that he is “elated by the thriving U.S. in pursuit of a better life. He describes Rey, he worked on a project for his arts scene in Milwaukee,” and sees the life they gave him in Milwaukee and Advanced Placement research class the area as an up-and-coming hub for his education at St. Josaphat and Cristo titled Evangelizing Through Media. Ruiz aspiring artists like himself. Perhaps, Rey as “the greatest gifts.” interviewed Fr. James Martin, SJ, for the like the European Jesuit colleges of Encouraged by his theater teacher essay and realized through their pivotal past centuries which yielded notable at Cristo Rey, Catie O’Donnell, Ruiz exchange that he could build his own productions, methods, and people, the submitted an original work to the opportunities. His parents had, of course, drama programs of the Jesuit institutions Milwaukee Chamber Theater’s Young provided the platform, and Cristo Rey of the Midwest will continue to inspire. Playwright’s competition and won. Ruiz provided the skills and community. As Imanol Ruiz believes so! @ was especially enthusiastic about the Fr. Bill Johnson, SJ, says, “Imanol sacar subject of his play, Armando Llorente, SJ, el jugo—he took advantage of every a Spanish-born Cuban Jesuit who taught opportunity of his Jesuit education— and mentored a teenage Fidel Castro at the heart, mind, and soul.” Kristine Mackey is VP for Jesuit’s El Colegio de Belen in Havana. While Ruiz enthusiastically credits advancement and communications Ruiz exercises artistic license but for every teacher and every mentor he has for the USA Midwest Province one micro-story. Castro, the revolutionary, encountered on this journey, he credits his Jesuits. is in hiding and is visited by Llorente, BMO Harris work-study mentors, Tricia

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 13 A HEART ON FIRE

Trevor Rainwater, SJ, (right) with his brother and fellow Jesuit, Conan Rainwater Inset: Trevor and Conan as kids with their sister, Ellecia Different Yet United

By Trevor Rainwater, SJ

grew up in North Dakota and attended often overlooked by society. It is very we unite after a day in the “vineyard of I Creighton University, where I first consoling to return home and hear how the Lord” to celebrate the Passion, death, encountered the Jesuits. I was delighted members of my community adapt to serve and Resurrection of Christ once again. to meet this group of men who shared those in need despite the current situation. In the midst of this academic program, a deep love of Christ but, at the same One adjustment occurred for me in May God willing, I will be ordained to the time, were involved in a variety of 2020, when I was ordained a transitional priesthood in 2021 to further share in professions—teaching, medicine, law, deacon. The most obvious change in the Eucharistic celebration and unite all retreat work, and parish life. This variety the liturgy was when I turned around to people, regardless of their background, of work attracted me to the Society of see an empty church (due to COVID-19 to the heavenly banquet of the Lord’s Jesus, as one could be a priest and a restrictions). However, despite the Supper. Despite living in an apostolic medical doctor, a brother working in physical emptiness, I was comforted by community where members work at the astronomy, or a Jesuit scholastic working the “online Church” of family and friends Jesuit Conference of Canada and the in a refugee center. My desire to enter who supported me through numerous United States, minister at a high school, the Society was confirmed during a silent emails, texts, and photos as they watched or take part in graduate studies, we all retreat and has deepened through my time the ceremony. come together to share in the gift of the in formation. Another adjustment grew out of my Through my ten years of formation, love for liturgy. After completing my first which Jesus left to us. @ Jesuits have continued to engage the round of theology studies in , I world in a variety of ministries, with moved back to the United States to pursue men serving on reservations in South a graduate degree in liturgical studies Dakota, high school teachers navigating from a non-Jesuit university. Through Trevor Rainwater, SJ, is a Jesuit online classes, pastors returning to the liturgy, a Jesuit’s title (high school scholastic currently in theology full parish life, and men working in president, teacher, student, medical studies. He will be ordained this outreach programs providing food, doctor) is dropped, as each person is June. clothes, or identification to those who are equal at the Lord’s table. At the Eucharist

Page 14 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 EDUCATION

From the Earliest Days of Jesuit Education The Pontifical Gregorian University hosts 2,750 ESTABLISHED IN 1551 BY ST. IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA, PONTIFICAL students from 120 countries. GREGORIAN UNIVERSITY TURNS 470 YEARS OLD THIS YEAR

By Michael Austin

he storied tradition of Jesuit received both his bachelor’s and master’s midst of integrating with the Pontifical Teducation had to begin somewhere, degrees there between 1971 and 1975. Biblical Institute, founded in 1909 by and this year one of its earliest schools— Cardinal Cupich recalls the first-class Pope Pius X, and the Pontifical Oriental in Rome—turns 470 years old. professors who led him through the rigors Institute, founded in 1917 by Pope Established as the Collegio Romano by of Jesuit schooling and the profound Benedict XV. The goal, as Fr. Grummer St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1551, the school experience he had living in Rome. “It sees it, is to consolidate the institutions’ of grammar, humanity, and Christian introduced me to the wider world of the financial resources and personnel, doctrine was expanded later that century Church and society,” he says. promote collaboration, and facilitate by Pope Gregory XIII, who would Father Vincent Strand, SJ, also interdisciplinary activity and networking. become the university’s namesake in cherished his student years at the Greg “I am a great believer in the law 1873 by order of Pope Pius IX. despite some of the challenges of living of unintended consequences, which Today, the Pontifical Gregorian in the Eternal City. means that the future is never what we University, colloquially known as “the “Studying theology with students plan,” says Fr. Grummer, who is also Greg,” has roughly 2,750 students from and professors from all over the world the director of the Centro Ignaziano di 120 countries. As an ecclesiastical was rewarding, and doing so in a city Spiritualità, a constitutive part of the institution, about 70 percent of its as historically significant as Rome, near Greg’s Institute of Spirituality. “I think students are priests or seminarians. The the tombs of the apostles and ancient we hope there will be more interaction remainder of the student body consists of , was inspiring and formative,” among our various faculties and students laypeople and women religious. says Fr. Strand, who earned a Bachelor so that we can better serve local churches “Working at the Gregorian is a fantastic of Sacred Theology in 2016 and is now and the universal Church.” opportunity for which I will always be studying for a PhD at the University of As a student, Fr. Strand took every grateful,” says Fr. James Grummer, SJ, Notre Dame. “The mission of the Greg opportunity he could to learn about and superior of the university’s 70 Jesuits, is quintessentially Jesuit, combining experience the history of St. Ignatius who hail from 25 countries. “The people education and intellectual depth with a and the early Jesuits in Rome. “Living in I live with, work with, and serve are global vision for the needs of the Church the very building that houses the rooms fantastic people with deeply felt desires universal.” of St. Ignatius was an incomparable to serve the Church. It is a joy to get up Mary McAleese, the president of experience,” he says. “I am a better Jesuit every day and be part of what happens Ireland from 1997 to 2011, is an alumna, today because of my years at the Greg.” @ here.” and Italian poet and librettist Andrea Among the school’s alumni are Salvadori, who served the Medici family dozens of saints and blesseds, including in the 1600s, is an alumnus as well. At St. , SJ, and St. the school’s establishment, St. Ignatius Michael Austin is a freelance Maximilian Kolbe; numerous , envisioned a “university of the nations, writer based in Chicago, a national including Pope Pius XII and Pope John for the defense and propagation of the James Beard Award finalist for Paul I; and approximately 1,000 living faith, and for the training of wise and magazine feature writing, and a former nationally syndicated bishops, including the Archdiocese of qualified leaders of the Church and of columnist for the Chicago Tribune. Chicago’s Cardinal Blase Cupich, who society.” The Greg is currently in the

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 15 EDUCATION An Ignatian Education

Walsh Jesuit High School, in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, was founded in 1965, funded by a gift from and named after Cornelius and Jane Walsh.

By Lelah Byron

hat distinguishes a high school as Guidance from both teachers and enrolled at Walsh Jesuit. As a freshman, Wbelonging to the Jesuit mission? the broader community allowed Chloe Gunther grew more attuned to global Not sheer statistics, but heart. With Gunther—a Walsh Jesuit graduate who is injustices, particularly the refugee crisis. roughly a thousand students and just now a sophomore at Seattle University— It was on Instagram where Gunther two Jesuits on staff at Walsh Jesuit High to discern a mission of her own, as she scrolled past a photo of three-year-old School in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, the discovered her passion for activism and Alan Kurdi who had drowned in the priests may not be numerous, but Ignatian social justice. Mediterranean fleeing Syria. spirituality is abundant. “I was shocked into discomfort and “How can we still be called a Jesuit We can’t live our faith without disgusted that I didn’t know what was school with two Jesuits?” Fr. Don going on,” Gunther says. Petkash, SJ, director of mission and doing service work and Ardent in her desire to raise awareness identity at Walsh Jesuit, asks. “It’s meeting people on the margins. about the refugee plight but uncertain of because of the work that has been done That is always, and was what direction to take, Gunther turned with the teachers and staff.” always, the best form of prayer to campus ministers and then-assistant The lay faculty and staff at Walsh Jesuit for me. principal Sean Lynch for guidance. She have been entrusted with preserving was pleased to find that they immediately Jesuit values—they are formed in embraced the idea. Ignatian spirituality—and the students “We can’t live our faith without doing Walsh Jesuit takes pride in the embody those values in a special way service work and meeting people on the administration’s accessibility, enabling through service, Fr. Petkash says. margins,” Gunther says. “That is always, students’ development both spiritually “I’m extremely proud of our students and was always, the best form of prayer and academically. “We want students and the graduates we turn out,” he says. for me.” who are going to be open to growth, “They’re really fine people. They are Following in the footsteps of her intellectually competent, religious, really cognizant of wanting to be a man two older brothers, both of whom were loving, and committed to doing justice,” or woman for others.” involved in service work, Gunther says Lynch, an alumnus of the class of

Page 16 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 EDUCATION

’94, who became principal in May. Gunther founded a Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) team, an extracurricular organization on campus intended to educate about and advocate for refugees. Utilizing the JRS Walk a Mile program, Gunther and other club members crafted their own refugee camp simulation for Walsh Jesuit. The exercise allowed students to confront a representation of the hardships war-displaced peoples face. “You know, how can you simulate being a refugee?” Karl Ertle, president of Walsh Jesuit, asks. “But [Chloe] did an amazing job.” Jesuits such as Fr. Don Petkash (right) and former At Seattle University, another Jesuit counselor and teacher Fr. Jim King (left) play an school, Gunther became one of nine important role in maintaining Walsh Jesuit’s values. students in her graduating class to receive the Sullivan Leadership Award, which covers tuition, housing, and meals for leaders in service. There she continued her advocacy, working to start a JRS team significant to the Church, is the largest physically, but in every other way it was on campus. It was her biggest goal going club on campus. so impactful,” Ertle says. into college, she says. Edward P. Sloan, a ’76 graduate, Walsh Jesuit was able to have two “I would not be there without Walsh emergency medicine professor and socially distanced Kairos retreats. Gavin and the way they cultivated the different medical director of physician assistant Carr, a senior, was a leader on one. Even aspects of my life,” Gunther emphasizes. studies at Dominican University, says without the simple intimacy of a hug or Cultivating students’ God-given talents it was in a theology class where the unmasked smile, Carr says the retreat to change the world remains integral to class received an essay exam prompt demonstrated what his school is all about: the mission of the school, Ertle says. with just one word: “Why?” The late Fr. being with and for others. Theology classes aid students in their Clement Metzger, SJ, and all of the Jesuits “Kairos is a big part of Walsh,” he says. academic and spiritual discernment, and emphasized sound thinking as students “My experience was so amazing, and Justice League, a club where students considered God and one’s role in the world. with how much it touched me, I wanted learn about faith and service matters “We were always being challenged to to help someone else with that.” think critically,” Sloan says. “The faculty With or without a sizable Jesuit and students were all motivated by the presence, Lynch says he is proud that pursuit of excellence in thought and deed.” students, as they receive their diplomas But outside of theology classes and at graduation, embody Catholic extracurriculars is the heart of Walsh characteristics of compassion and Jesuit: campus ministry, strategically servitude. Their care for others, he says, located in the center of the school, serves will stay with students long after they as a conduit for faith, liturgy, service, and leave Walsh Jesuit. justice. “We’re a one-stop shop here,” Tim Attending Walsh Jesuit “is not a Dunn, campus minister, says. “We look at four-year decision,” Lynch says. “It’s a ourselves as the ‘lab’ to theology, if you lifelong decision.” @ will. We’re where you sink your teeth into it, like you would in a biology lab.” With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the offerings of campus Lelah Byron is a junior at ministry look slightly different right now. Marquette University studying Walsh Jesuit High School alumna Chloe Gunther Immersion trips to Arizona and tutoring journalism and political science and a former intern for the USA programs in Akron continue, albeit in Midwest Province Jesuits. virtual form. “Students couldn’t be there

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 17 A JESUIT’S JOURNEY

A Brother’s Vocation By Lauren Gaffey

Left: Br. Heidrick (third row, right) with fellow tertian brothers at Colombiere College in 1970 Right: Br. Heidrick with his nephew and family during a summer 2020 visit

here are Jesuits working in a vast “At that time, you were a postulant preparing for the priesthood; rather, the Tarray of professions—teachers, for six months, you went home for two brotherhood is a vocation of its own. doctors, lawyers, professors—but one weeks, and if you came back you started Brothers like Br. Heidrick are unique job belongs to Br. Jim Heidrick, your novitiate at Florissant, Missouri,” committed to serving God through the SJ, a locksmith at Creighton University. Br. Heidrick recalls. After his two years in people of their time. “I love to do the Nearly six decades ago, his first the novitiate, he moved to St. Bonifacius, work of the people, the fathers, the assignment as a Jesuit was to Creighton, Minnesota, to study with other brothers students, and the faculty,” he says. “That where he’s been ever since. He began while simultaneously continuing to study is my service to the Lord. A Jesuit brother there working on telephone and electrical electricity, as he had in high school. He helps maintain the mission so others needs and repairing dental equipment was then assigned to Creighton. can do the bigger work. Today brothers and televisions but later received an are teachers, administrators, and almost assignment to help in the locksmith From the age of ten, anything that is needed.” area. When he first saw the residence While his parents and brothers have hall records, they were handwritten and Br. Heidrick knew in his heart all passed away, Br. Heidrick is still disorganized. “I spent the first year going that he wanted to be a brother. able to connect with extended family. building to building and writing down In the summer of 2020, his nephew— all the doors and lock numbers. I wrote Being the keeper of the keys at the also named Jim Heidrick—came from a computer program to keep track of university is the specific manifestation of California with his family to visit his the locks which I am still repairing and his vocation. “As a Jesuit brother, he sees uncle. “It made me so happy that they tracking 57 years later,” Br. Heidrick said. his vocation as being of permanent service remember me. I wished they could have From the age of ten, Br. Heidrick knew here at Creighton,” Terry Kult, nurse to stayed longer because they all make in his heart that he wanted to be a brother, Creighton’s Jesuit community, says. Like me laugh,” Br. Heidrick remarks. “I though he was not sure which order was all Jesuits, brothers take vows of poverty, love them, and I love my work here at right for him. He lost his hearing as a chastity, and obedience and serve the Creighton University.” @ young child and enrolled at St. Joseph’s Society of Jesus, but they do not preside Institute for the Deaf in St. Louis before at Mass or celebrate other sacraments. returning home to Nebraska to attend a While St. Ignatius of Loyola and his Lauren Gaffey, is the associate technical high school. Upon graduation, original companions were all priests, it director of communications for the his father asked if he still wanted to be was only six years after the founding of Midwest Jesuits and a graduate a brother and when Br. Heidrick said the Society that St. Ignatius petitioned of the University of Notre Dame and Loyola University Chicago. yes, his father arranged for him to go to the pope to allow the order to admit She manages the content for Creighton University for an interview lay co-adjutors, or helpers. Sometimes JesuitPrayer.org with Fr. Lawrence Flanagan, SJ. referred to as “lay religious,” they are not

Page 18 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 A JESUIT’S JOURNEY

Fr. James J. O’Leary’s

Fr. George Winzenburg (left) and Fr. O’Leary (right) with Laree Pourier, teacher at Red Cloud Indian Ministry School, at a Jesuit event in 2016 of Kindness By Bhavana Purighalla ather James J. O’Leary, SJ, grew up vocation. “I had the thought of leaving completely trustworthy and a wonderful Fin a household where religion was the Jesuits,” he says. But after teaching character,” Fr. DiUlio says. very important. Every guest was expected during his regency, he found clarity. “I In his free time, Fr. O’Leary enjoys to join in saying the family rosary. came back because I loved teaching, and I watching sports, especially cheering for Some of his friends would come after loved giving back.” the Green Bay Packers. He also loves to dinner just to avoid it! As a young man, Throughout his ministry Fr. O’Leary travel. “It’s getting harder to travel now, medicine was his plan. Father O’Leary’s made an impact on the lives of many but growing old is learning to let go of brother was a medical student, and his people, one of them being Fr. Al DiUlio, things,” he says. The advice, the support, father was a doctor, so it seemed like a and the kindness Fr. O’Leary has given logical move for him. However, one day Father O’Leary is an to so many people over the years has while dissecting a frog, he realized that had a lasting impact. It is clear to those something wasn’t right. This wasn’t his extraordinarily generous who know him that Fr. O’Leary is a great plan—he was meant to work for God. man, and he’s thoughtful and man who has contributed greatly to the Father O’Leary grew up learning about humorous. You can tell him communities where he’s served. the Society of Jesus—his father donated anything, and he will just sit Today he is missioned to St. Camillus every month—and he understood that he and listen. He is completely Jesuit Community, where he prays for could give back and do what he loved trustworthy and a wonderful the Church and the Society. He says he is at the same time. Just like medicine, a also glad to be able to reflect on his own career with the Jesuits also ran in the character. life through prayer. And that reflection family. Father O’Leary’s brother ended leads him to share the following advice: up leaving medical school to join the SJ. The two met when Fr. DiUlio was “Accept people as they are, and don’t Society, too. Their family was supportive assistant principal at Campion High change people. Listen to them; listen to of the brothers and understood their School, and Fr. O’Leary was the spiritual their heart and mind.” @ vocations. director for scholastics. They instantly Father O’Leary entered the Society connected, became great friends, and still when he was 21 and has since served in speak frequently. The friends have been various ways, including teaching and there for each other during hard times in Bhavana Purighalla is a offering spiritual direction. Teaching life, such as the loss of family members. senior at Creighton University helped form his Jesuit identity, and “Father O’Leary is an extraordinarily and a former intern for the USA this identity guided his daily life and generous man, and he’s thoughtful and Midwest Province Jesuits. After graduation, she will be working at activities. At one point early on in his humorous. You can tell him anything Cerner in Kansas City. formation, Fr. O’Leary questioned his and he will just sit and listen. He is

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 19 ARTS & CULTURE

Loyola Academy and Regis University alumna Gabbie Littleton is general manager at EJ’s Place in Skokie, Illinois.

Adaptation, with a Side of Compassion

Jesuit-educated food industry professionals improvise to keep their businesses, and their employees and customers, safe and healthy

By Michael Austin

o one in the Midwest could ideology wrapped up in that, I wouldn’t Littleton has driven the missing item to Nhave predicted we’d one day know where to start!” the customer’s house herself. “I will do dine outdoors in stocking caps and be Sharing that love has required some whatever it takes to make it right,” she grateful for the opportunity. If it seems extra effort from Littleton and her father, says. otherworldly to you, imagine what it’s EJ Lenzi, the restaurant’s owner and She’s most proud of having kept all like for people running the restaurants. of the restaurant’s employees working Jesuit-educated restaurateurs across through the pandemic. “They are like the region, including Gabriella Lenzi family to me, and I’m so proud that they Littleton, Bill Whitley, Bridget Thibeault, still have jobs and can support their and Steve Lombardo III, have relied on families,” Littleton says. their Ignatian backgrounds to cope with Although Bill Whitley wasn’t a great the most difficult and unpredictable year student—his words—he considers his of their careers. Creighton University experience key to “Dining out requires a lot of trust, and From left to right: Michael Lombardo, Elizabeth his success today. As an undergraduate, we work very hard to ensure that we Lombardo Stark, Steve Lombardo Jr., Peggy Lombardo, surrounded by the high-achieving are good stewards of that trust,” says and Steve Lombardo III students Creighton attracts, he learned Littleton, the general manager of EJ’s from others. Place in Skokie, Illinois, and a graduate a fellow alum. They “I observed how they prepared and of nearby Loyola Academy (2004) and installed a 2,400-square-foot carpeted, how they organized their time, and it was Regis University in (2008). heated tent to allow for outside dining. all invaluable down the road,” he says. “I want every customer to walk away They also ramped up their carryout “I learned more from being around those feeling like our family showed them love. program to meet demand. In the rare people than I ever could have learned I really feel like there’s so much Jesuit instance that a mistake has been made, from any textbook.”

Page 20 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 ARTS & CULTURE

He graduated in 1977 and soon began became that outlet, and it eventually (Elizabeth), and working in local restaurants, eventually inspired her to leave her advertising (Christina). Even Christina, who works becoming a manager and owner. In 1993 career and enroll full-time in culinary outside the family business, designed the and 1994, Whitley and business partner school. At age 38, her post-graduation company website. The other three siblings Mike Frank, another Creighton alum, side hustle making cakes and pastries work full-time with their father. opened two locations of Vincenzo’s led her to open Luna Bakery & Cafe in “The Jesuit education we received Italian Ristorante, in Omaha and Lincoln, Cleveland Heights, Ohio. The business certainly prepared us for work and Nebraska. life in general, if not specifically for Layoffs were unavoidable early in the restaurant business,” says Steve the shutdown, but Whitley and his Lombardo III, the company’s chairman staff did everything they could to help and general counsel. “Notably, it’s the Vincenzo’s employees navigate the state’s Jesuit tradition of seeking facts and unemployment system. As a result, only rigorous analysis in decision-making. I one of the 60 laid-off individuals took can’t say I do the Examen daily, but I do a pay cut. Whenever the Vincenzo’s try to take time several times a week for locations were able, they provided food to self-reflection, prayer, and to think about homeless shelters. They also upheld their others.” tradition of offering free meals to veterans Bridget Thibeault at Luna Bakery & Cafe Those practices surely helped the on Veterans Day. Lombardos endure the ups and downs Although Whitley understands the grew, and she opened a second location in of the past year. To compensate for importance of wearing masks, he regrets 2018, in nearby Moreland Hills. occupancy limits and limited revenue, that they hide faces, since interacting “The Jesuits teach finding God in all Gibsons created an online steak store, with people is a big part of his job. things and caring for the whole person,” built outdoor structures, and made its “When I see a guest from across the says Thibeault, who has employed many HVAC system hospital-grade. For the room, they can’t see me smiling at them, John Carroll University students and company to survive, some workers had to acknowledging my appreciation that they alumni over the years. “I truly care about be laid off. Still, Gibsons paid everyone have come to dine with us,” he says. “In giving outstanding hospitality to our for 10 weeks, prepared boxed meals any event, we will all get through this guests at Luna, and I think the Catholic for them, and maintained their health and come out stronger, with a deeper and Jesuit teachings have given me the insurance. appreciation for each other.” groundwork to know how to do that.” “We treat our customers and employees After Bridget Thibeault graduated The original location has stayed as family, and all decisions we made from Marquette University in 1991, she open throughout the pandemic, even during the past year took that into worked for seven years in the Chicago as the newer location closed briefly account,” Steve III says. advertising industry. She loved the work but continued to provide fresh food for Over the past year, many of us but needed a creative outlet. Cooking Cleveland Clinic front-line workers. The have discovered how much we rely company has also been supporting local on restaurants as places to gather and organizations and schools through gift commune with the people in our lives. cards and small donations. “My favorite “Humans breaking bread is a part of having a restaurant is when people fundamental part of our DNA,” Steve III come up to me and thank me for what says. “We share stories, thoughts, ideas, we have created in our community,” feelings, and love when we eat together. Thibeault says. Just like talking is better than texting, and Steve Lombardo Jr. opened Gibsons in-person meetings are better than talking Bar & Steakhouse in 1989, and today on the phone, sharing a meal is more Chicago-based Gibsons Restaurant Group intimate than meeting someone without owns 14 properties across four states. eating.” Jesuit education is a family tradition. In other words, everything is better All four of Steve Jr.’s children graduated with food. from Saint Ignatius College Prep in “I believe a career in hospitality, in Chicago before going on to Georgetown which we serve others to ultimately make University and Georgetown University them happy, is a noble calling,” Steve III Law Center (Steve III), Marquette says. @ Bill Whitley University (Michael), Boston College

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 21 In Memoriam

We give thanks for the following Jesuits who have gone home to God.

Fr. Mark W. Andrews, SJ Fr. Norman J. Dickson, SJ Fr. Karl J. Voelker, SJ Fr. Charles W. Niehaus, SJ September 29, 1952 – December 4, 1936 – November 24, August 10, 1941 – December 8, 2020 June 29, 1945 – January 10, 2021 November 5, 2020 2020 “No matter what role he played— “People felt privileged to have “Mark was a tremendous listener “Norm was a marvelous pastor, student counselor, retreat Chuck in their lives or to work who had the ability to put people storyteller who loved to regale director, or minister—Karl cared alongside him as he was always at ease which would allow them people with his stories.” for a person’s body and soul.” loyal and dependable.” to share the ups and downs of Classical language teacher at Saint History and theology teacher and French teacher and minister at St. their interior life and relationship Ignatius High School in Cleveland; campus minister at Creighton Xavier High School in Cincinnati; with the Lord.” director of student social services Preparatory School in Omaha; teacher pastoral ministry at Holy Family Religious studies teacher at Loyola and president of Walsh Jesuit High at Campion Jesuit High School in Church, St. Ignatius Parish, and Academy in Wilmette, Ill.; assistant School in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; Prairie du Chien, Wisc.; associate St. Procopius Parish in Chicago; novice director at Jesuit director of mission and superior pastor and pastor at Saints Peter and pastoral ministry in the Quad Cities; Novitiate in Berkley, Mich.; retreat of the Jesuit Community at Loyola Paul Catholic Church in Mankato, co-director of Hispanic ministry in director, superior, and acting director Secondary School in Wau, South Minn.; retreat and spiritual director at the Diocese of Gary, Ind.; pastoral at Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House Sudan; assistant campus minister at Cenacle Retreat House in Wayzata, ministry at St. Paul Church in in Barrington, Ill.; spiritual father the University of Detroit; assistant Minn.; pastor at the Church of the Lexington, Ky. and vice-superior of Arrupe House at rector and minister at Hekima College Gesu in Milwaukee; minister of the Loyola University Chicago; assistant in Nairobi, Kenya; vocation director, St. Camillus Jesuit Community in to the superior of the first studies provincial assistant for international Wauwatosa, Wisc.; retreat director program at Loyola University Chicago. ministries, and treasurer for the at Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House in former Detroit Province; pastor of Barrington, Ill. Gesu Parish in Detroit; administrator of St. Mary of the Woods Parish and St. Aloysius Parish in Michigan.

Fr. James V. Lewis, SJ December 22, 1935 – January 14, 2021 “Jim enjoyed life, almost always Br. Daniel J. McCullough, SJ wore a smile on his face, and he frequently kidded people.” May 28, 1937 – November 11, 2020 Fr. Edward L. Pigott, SJ August 28, 1937 – December 27, 2020 English, theology, and math teacher, “Dan accepted everyone he student counselor, faculty chaplain, encountered and, through his Br. Robert E. Smith, SJ “Ed found joy playing bridge, and director of the Spirituality understanding and care, helped celebrating weddings and August 20, 1928 – November 24, 2020 Program for Adults at Saint Ignatius them to encounter Christ.” baptisms for former students, and High School in Cleveland; math and Assistant infirmarian and infirmarian “Bob was a quiet, steady man encouraging others.” theology teacher at St. John’s Jesuit at Colombiere College in Clarkson, who liked to work with his Latin teacher at Saint Ignatius High School and Academy and rector Mich.; prefect of health for the former hands—a good Jesuit and a good College Prep in Chicago; student of St. John’s Jesuit Community in Detroit Province; student counselor community member.” counselor, religion teacher, and Toledo, Ohio; associate pastor at and director of the pastoral team Maintenance staff at Holy campus minister at St. Xavier High Gesu Church in Toledo, Ohio; minister at University of Detroit Jesuit High Rosary Mission on the Pine Ridge School in Cincinnati. at Jesuit Retreat Center in Parma, School and Academy; spiritual case Reservation in S.Dak.; director of Ohio. manager and chaplain at Hospice of buildings and grounds at SCOLA in Southeast Michigan; chaplain and McClelland, Iowa. director of pastoral care at Cranbrook Hospice America Home Health Service in Farmington Hills, Mich.

Page 22 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 To read the full obituaries of Jesuits who have gone home to God, visit us at www.jesuitsmidwest.org/In-Memoriam ASSIGNMENTS

director of campus ministry, trustee and always ready to do anything of the Frederick Crowe literary estate, that was needed or asked of him.” coordinator of the International History and English teacher at Saint Institute for Method in Theology, Ignatius High School in Cleveland; and theology professor at Marquette associate pastor at Parroquia de University in Milwaukee; theology Cristo Rey, Juliaca, Peru; psychology professor at Creighton University in and Spanish teacher and student Omaha; theology professor, director counselor at Saint Ignatius College Fr. James F. Riley, SJ of the Lonergan Research Institute, Prep in Chicago; marriage and Fr. Brian Paulson, SJ, has been appointed as the next president of July 17, 1945 – January 20, 2021 and trustee of the Bernard Lonergan family counselor at Catholic Family literary estate at in Consultation Service in Chicago; the Jesuit Conference of Canada and “Jim’s keen, analytical mind Toronto. pastoral theology teacher at Jesuit the United States. helped him to understand and School of Theology in Chicago; express the “heart of the matter” superior of the Holy Family Jesuit or the core issue at hand.” Community and the English and Latin teacher, director Jesuit Community in Chicago and of admissions, treasurer, special the Vatican Observatory Jesuit assistant to the president, minister of Community in Tucson, Ariz.; assistant the community, and superintendent rector of Jesuit School of Theology of buildings and maintenance at at Berkeley, Calif.; associate pastor University of Detroit Jesuit High at St. Procopius Church in Chicago; School and Academy; socius minister of the Taylor Street Jesuit to the provincial, assistant for Community in Chicago. retreat ministry, and coordinator of Fr. Eugene M. Dutkiewicz, SJ Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, has been secondary education for the former appointed as provincial of the Detroit Province; vice president of June 4, 1931 – January 24, 2021 Midwest Province. the Jesuit Secondary Education Association; director of Manresa “Dutch was not a man of many words, but he was a great Fr. Chris Collins, SJ, will become Jesuit Retreat House in Bloomfield the next vice president for mission at Hills, Mich.; assistant procurator companion to many because he truly cared about and listened to University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, general of the Society at the Minnesota. Jesuit Curia in Rome; director of others.” Jesuit Retreat Center in Parma, Chemistry and math teacher and Fr. Patrick Gilger, SJ, will serve Ohio; assistant and consultor to assistant principal at Campion as a professor of sociology at Loyola the provincial regarding canonical High School in Prairie du Chien, University Chicago. matters in Chicago; special assistant Wisc.; math teacher and principal Fr. John D. Mace, SJ Fr. Lukas Laniauskas, SJ, has at Creighton Preparatory School in to the president and superior of the May 1, 1937 – February 21, 2021 been named pastor of Gesu Parish in community at Saint Ignatius High Omaha; minister of the Weston Jesuit University Heights, Ohio. School in Cleveland. Community in Cambridge, Mass.; “John seemed to move easily socius, treasurer, provincial assistant between different cultures, Fr. Tom Lawler, SJ, has been for finance, pastoral ministry, and although he actually worked very named director of Jesuit Retreat retreat ministry for the former hard to adapt to whatever culture House in Lake Elmo, Minnesota. Wisconsin Province; superior and to which he was assigned.” Fr. Chris Manahan, SJ, has been revisor of province houses and works Philosophy and English teacher at appointed as the provincial assistant at St. Camillus Jesuit Community in Daegun Seminary in Kwangju, South for senior Jesuits and pre-tertians for Wauwatosa, Wisc. Korea; assistant director of campus the Midwest Province. ministry at Marquette University Fr. Ben Osborne has been appointed in Milwaukee; master of novices as superior of the Arrupe House and socius to the superior for the Jesuit Community in Milwaukee. Korean Mission; president of Sogang Fr. Joshua Peters, SJ, has been University in Seoul, South Korea; named director of mission and rector of the Arrupe International identity at Christ the King Jesuit Fr. Robert M. Doran, SJ Residence in Quezon City, ; College Prep in Chicago. June 20, 1939 – January 21, 2021 superior of the Timor-Leste Independent Region; secretary of the Fr. Jim Shea, SJ, has been named “Always available, always Delegate of the Korean Provincial retreat director at Jesuit Retreat interested in listening to the to the Jesuit Mission in Cambodia, House in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. questions and needs of others, Fr. Richard J. Murphy, SJ director of scholastics, mission Fr. Paul Shelton, SJ, will join the Bob was present in mind, spirit, secretary, subminister, and minister Midwest Province vocations team. and enthusiasm for others.” December 30, 1929 – February 7, 2021 of Prieb So in Phnom Penh. Br. Matt Wooters, SJ, will join the Teacher at Creighton Prep in Omaha; “Dick was humble, unpretentious, Midwest Province vocations team.

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 23 PASTORAL MINISTRY

A Pastoral Workhorse Fr. Stan Czarnecki, SJ, with students from the Polish Club at Loyola Academy By Ann Power Greene

orn and raised in a Catholic family before being missioned to Chicago. came to a deep personal relationship Bin Stalowa Wola, Poland, Fr. Stan In 2001, he started as treasurer for the with God in high school, and his desire Czarnecki, SJ, was the youngest of three Polish Jesuit Community in Chicago. is to offer all people he encounters siblings. He loved going to school and His pastoral ministry was dedicated to God’s kindness and an awareness of practicing sports and music and especially various organizations, including the God’s presence with them in all things.” loved playing the guitar and accordion. Domestic Church movement and Polish Unsurprisingly, Fr. Czarnecki gravitated As a young man, he was an altar server scouting organizations, and he founded a toward leading the Polish Club, where and was involved in a Catholic youth Bible study group for the CLC. After his he shares his heritage with the students movement in Poland called “Light-Life.” time in Chicago, he traveled to Boston through cultural activities. His participation in this ministry helped to begin his tertianship, which included Pastoral work is what Fr. Czarnecki him grow in his faith and deepen his an assignment on the Pine Ridge Indian loves best, and it does not go unnoticed; relationship with Christ. Father Czarnecki Reservation in South Dakota. Midwest Jesuits Provincial Fr. Brian entered the Jesuit novitiate right after Returning to Chicago, Fr. Czarnecki Paulson, SJ, quips that “he’s a pastoral high school in 1986 in the Southern served as superior of the Polish Jesuit workhorse!” Poland Province. Community there, as rector of the “I am so lucky to have Fr. Stan in While studying in Warsaw, he obtained Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, my life,” says Terri Guercio, associate a master’s degree in theology. Just and as director of the Jesuit Millennium director of prospect research at Loyola down the street was a prison where Fr. Center, celebrating Mass on weekends Academy. “He brings out the joy in Czarnecki, then a scholastic, volunteered at parishes. One of his favorite activities everything he does!” by engaging inmates in Bible study and was leading the Domestic Church What’s next for Fr. Czarnecki and his reflecting on the stories. Most days after movement for Polish families living guitar? “My dream is to be involved studying, he would put on his cassock, in Chicago where a group of families with people as a social minister and to grab his guitar, and head over to the would meet in one of their homes and work with them to spread the joy of the prison. The time he spent there was pray together. Father Czarnecki saw an Gospel,” he says. “Just like Pope Francis, challenging, as Fr. Czarnecki recalls, but opportunity to serve in different ways— I love to spread joy always with Jesus at “the tough situations and conversations spiritual, pastoral, social, and cultural. the center.” @ that I had were rewarding experiences “In my Jesuit ministry, the guitar— during my formation.” playing and singing—is my faithful After his ordination in 1997 in companion that I use everywhere I go to Krakow, Fr. Czarnecki graduated from evangelize, to build the community, to Ann Power Greene serves as the University of Rome in 1999 with bring the joy!” he says. Father Czarnecki director of grants and special an STL degree in pastoral theology and is now in his sixth year doing pastoral projects for the Midwest Jesuits in Chicago. Greene is a native of became involved in the Italian Christian work at Loyola Academy in Wilmette, Cleveland and has over 13 years of Life Community. He then spent two years Illinois. Mike Gregg, director of campus service to the Jesuits. back in Poland as a formation director ministry at Loyola Academy, notes, “Stan

For more on Fr. Czarnecki, watch the Jesuit Lunch Hour he was featured on in May 2020 at JesuitsMidwest.org/LunchHour

Page 24 | Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 ADVANCEMENT MIDWEST

USA MIDWEST PROVINCE

V. Rev. Brian G. Paulson, SJ PROVINCIAL Kristine Mackey VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS & PROVINCIAL ASSISTANT Quentin Maguire EDITOR AND DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Lauren Gaffey ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Grace Rice ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Kurt Metzler DESIGNER

USA MIDWEST PROVINCE 1010 N. Hooker St., Chicago, IL 60642 Ocer Campion Success Story (800) 537-3736 Gift Officers Ocer Campion Jesuit College, a coed boarding school in Gulu, Uganda, has been the recipient of over $1.5 million Dede Crowley (Omaha/Twin Cities) in grants from USAID American Schools and Hospitals [email protected] | (402) 214-5639 Abroad for construction and commodities for a kitchen and Nora Dabrowski (Detroit/Cleveland) dining hall (2011), an advanced level girls’ dorm (2017), [email protected] | (773) 368-6399 and an advanced level science building (2018). Celebrating its 11th year, the high school was founded Thomas Drexler (Twin Cities/Milwaukee/Chicago) by Fr. Tony Wach, SJ, an American Jesuit (originally from [email protected] | (773) 368-6899 Omaha, Nebraska) and alumnus of the former Campion High School in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. The school Patrick Kennedy (Chicago/Cincinnati) [email protected] | (773) 975-6920 was built as a post-civil war recovery initiative, and it is now home to over 730 students from northern Uganda and will have room for up to 1,200 Dan O’Brien (Milwaukee/Twin Cities) students once construction is complete. In celebration of International Women’s Day on March [email protected] | (773) 975-5755 8, 2021, Ocer Campion and the USA Midwest Jesuits shared a success story video at USAID ASHA’s annual partner meeting. SPECIAL THANKS Watch the video at JesuitsMidwest.org/Ocer21 Fr. Glen Chun, SJ; Ann Greene; Nancy Hrdlicka; Dave McNulty; Br. John Moriconi, SJ; USA Midwest Province Jesuits Fr. Michael Rossmann, SJ; John Sealey; Welcome Thomas Drexler Becky Sindelar The USA Midwest Province Jesuits are pleased to welcome Thomas Drexler as the newest major gift officer. Drexler comes to the VOTED 2020 RELIGIOUS ORDER Jesuits from the Ignatian Spirituality Project, where he served as MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR executive director. Additionally, Drexler has previously served as BY THE CATHOLIC PRESS ASSOCIATION executive director of International; assistant vice president at DePaul University; director of Institute for Latin VISIT US AT American Concern (ILAC) semester abroad for Creighton University, and as a high school and WWW.JESUITSMIDWEST.ORG university educator. Drexler is a graduate of Marquette University, Creighton University, and Washington Theological Union.

Jesuits | A publication of the Midwest Jesuits | Spring 2021 | Page 25 Non-Profit Org. Society of Jesus U.S. Postage 1010 N. Hooker St. PAID Chicago, IL 60642 #1327 Society of Jesus

Introducing the 2021 Ordinands

Thomas Bambrick, SJ Jeffrey Dorr, SJ Garrett Gundlach, SJ Robert Karle, SJ

Aaron Malnick, SJ Hung Nguyen, SJ Trevor Rainwater, SJ Jeffrey Sullivan, SJ

Learn more about the ordinands and livestreaming details as they become available at JesuitsMidwest.org/Ordination21