The Abbey Subiaco Message Abbey Jewett Annex and “The Arches” blessed

The January 8, 2005, closed on the sides. With rededication ceremony the influx of vocations in brought to mind the first the 1940s and 1950s, this dedication ceremony of the space had to be utilized “new monastery” on June for living quarters for the 14, 1904, and a feeling, as young monks, novices, expressed by Abbot Jerome and candidates. Hastily Kodell, O.S.B., “of deep constructed partitions went communion with the found- up, the floors remained ing generation of monks concrete, and there were and their early successors, as absolutely no frills. Here well as with the many nuns these young men lived until who served here and the lay the early 1960s when the people who supported the north and northeast wings founding and mission of the June 14, 1904, blessing of “new monastery” of the monastery were monastery over the years.” finally complete. Construction of the present monas- area where our present renovation has The living rooms of the monks on tic building had been begun in 1898, taken place. It was only in the spring the second and third floors were quite but work was limited by the frequent of 1937 that it was possible to start a austere, with only a moveable wooden lack of funds. Even after the 1904 dedi- reconstruction project, which was not locker provided and a sink with running cation ceremony, work continued for finished until the fall of 1940, when a water. These rooms were in use until the nearly a decade. However, in December substantial gift from Sir Charles Jewett, present renovation. Gradually suction 1927, fire gutted most of the monas- Knight of Saint Gregory and the Holy fans at the end of the hallways provided tery, except the southeast wing and the Sepulcher and his wife, made it possible a little relief in summer. Common bath- south wing. When fire swept through to complete what became known as the room facilities and a reading room were the abbey, it destroyed the abbey/par- Jewett Annex. also located on each floor. ish chapel, the library on the two floors The new “annex” now contained Many friends and benefactors had above the chapel and living quarters on the monks’ refectory, where the former urged much needed renovation. Two the fourth floor. Even most of the stone chapel had been located, a new kitchen, alumni, Wally Sprick of the Little Rock walls had to be knocked down. Then two floors of rooms for monks and a architectural firm Wittenberg, Delony came the Great Depression. All dur- sleeping porch on the fourth floor for & Davidson and Leo Anhalt, president ing the 1930s there was nothing in this “cool” sleeping in hot summer months. This “porch” had a roof, but was unen- see “Jewett Blessing” on page 4

News of our Apostolates for Friends of Subiaco Winter 2005 Subiaco, Arkansas, Vol LXII, No.3 1 Abbey

A Communion of Prayer In 1835 almost all the monasteries Maybe with this we could have avoided for you and in Spain were closed by the government suppression in the 1800’s. These are all your needs and their properties were taken over for good works, but we do not understand – in fact, the national needs. More than 20,000 men them as standing on their own. They are needs of the and women religious were evicted, many not why we are here. They are the over- Church and with no place to go but the streets. This flow or the outflow of our community world – every was only one example among many. life of seeking God. time we come The same thing was happening in other Recently we have sought ways to together for the “prayer of the Church,” European countries on various scales emphasize the role of prayer in our the Liturgy of the Hours, and whenever in a great wave of secularization, and relationship with others, to make prayer we come before God individually in would continue in some places into the itself more vividly a sign and seal of our personal prayer. Monastic life empha- twentieth century. communion. A few months ago we be- sizes the conviction of the Church that There was only one way a religious even prayer completely alone and in si- house could preserve itself: by showing lence, and even without words, is always its usefulness to the state and to society. intercessory beyond our awareness. That The government allowed some religious “This world is part of a is also why we value and count on your to continue in existence if they worked larger reality, the meaning prayer, which brings us blessings every in schools and hospitals. But all the and purpose of which can- day beyond our knowledge. communities devoted mainly to prayer not be discerned through a No one has expressed this com- were suppressed. They served no useful munion of prayer more beautifully than purpose. merely secular perspective. St. Paul at the beginning of his letter to People of faith see the world quite What is required is the his friends at Philippi: “I give thanks differently. We concede that work in perspective of the world’s to my God at every remembrance of schools and hospitals is important, as you, praying always with joy in my well as all kinds of hands-on service to creator, of God.” every prayer for all of you, because of human needs. But to focus exclusively your partnership in the gospel from the on what can be seen is to lose touch first day until now…. I hold you in my with the context, to distort, to confuse heart, you who are all partners with me a part of reality with the whole. This in grace” (Phil 1:3-5,7). That is how we world is part of a larger reality, the gan more systematically to keep track of think of you, as partners in the gospel meaning and purpose of which cannot the prayer requests we receive from our and in grace, and united with us in a be discerned through a merely secular friends, to post them on our community communion of prayer. perspective. What is required is the per- bulletin board and to include them in spective of the world’s creator, of God. the intentions at Vespers, our final com- Over a century and a half after the munity prayer of the day. In October, trouble in Spain monasteries are still a as reported in the fall 2004 issue of The curiosity, but mostly unmolested. What Abbey Message, we established a Prayer they are up to is not often any clearer to Hotline to make it easier for you to governments than before. And because contact us with your personal issues and all but the most enclosed monasteries prayer requests. The hotline (1-800- do some form of visible service in the 350-5889) is open to receive calls 24 world, their purpose and impact may hours every day, and a monk is available continue to be judged on that level. from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily to At Subiaco we conduct a school, respond personally and to monitor the minister in parishes, give retreats and calls that have come in. hospitality, raise quality cattle, and do As important as we feel this kind various other things which can be seen of contact is, our communion in prayer as contributions and services to society. goes much deeper. We are praying 2 Abbey Abbey Journal October The peanut brittle project was sion that all three factors are necessary delayed this year while the old bakery, for a prime leaf display: shorter days, After a dry September, we were where the brittle is cooked, was brought adequate moisture, and frosty nights. ready for some rain. We got some, and up to code. A shiny metal chimney We certainly had the moisture, then some more, and then some more, now tops a ventilation shaft. Hopefully with another nine inches in November! etc. After 3.5 inches the night of Octo- the chimney swifts who live in the old The process of room assignments ber 7-8, we lost power at 5 a.m. Rather brick chimney will know where to go in the renovated part of the monastery than taking the opportunity—and with next summer. The northside stairs were commenced in early November and a good excuse—for sleeping in, atten- also covered. This open stairwell was a concluded in December. This five- dance at 5:45 Morning Prayer and the hazard. Fr. Bernard Schumacher used phase process involved much inspec- Conventual Mass at 6:30 was perfect! to call it a “man trap,” and more than tion of rooms, and careful projections Saint Benedict uses the expression one vehicle had dropped a wheel into of what might still be available after “God forbid” in regard to the monks the opening. With an egress for fumes “he who had come to the monastery ever sleeping in past the appointed provided, and the ingress of rainwa- at the first hour of the day” had made time. So all were present, each with his ter—from the stairwell—excluded, the his choice. Those who got the “choice” penlight or candle or fluorescent torch, cooks went to work with a will, cooking fourth floor rooms with the large win- with a Coleman lantern on the organ up more than 2500 batches, one skillet dows and expansive views realize that console. The students were allowed at a time. Mrs. Ruth Hatwig was the they have smaller closets and will have to sleep in and classes began at 9, after chief candy maker, with Bro. Thomas farther to travel. the proper switching was done so that Moster as her tutor, and with Bro. Louis At mid-month the steel for the east the emergency generator could take Fuhrmann and Fr. Sebastian Beshoner as exit stairs began going up, and the drill over. We discovered on this occasion able assistants. bits in the elevator shaft began chewing that the battery-powered emergency At the same time, Fr. Richard Walz down. About the same distance actu- lights and uninterrupted power supply and Fr. Bruno Fuhrmann began wind- ally. The hydraulic piston has to push for the computers gives no more than the elevator five floors, so that reach has three hours for solving the emergency. to begin five floors below ground level. Brother Jude Schmitt, computer system The noise of the drilling was serious administrator, scrambles to shut down but not deafening as we had feared, computers, while maintenance person- and the dust was pervasive, but not nel, including Brothers Anselm Allen choking. Water was more of a problem and Eric Loran, get the generator started than dust, and on line. as the Fr. Timothy Donnelly had been drillers feeling poorly since October 1, and fi- encoun- nally on October 11 he was taken to the Abbey Brittle & Monk Sauce tered sev- hospital, where surgery for a ruptured eral strong appendix was performed that same day. ing down the habanero pepper harvest. streams. Apparently the rupture had occurred Enough peppers were harvested and Shale some days earlier, but an anomalous delivered to Taste Buds, a salsa factory rather positioning of the appendix had kept in Benton, Arkansas, to concoct 10,000 than the the poison from spreading. He returned bottles of this liquid fire product. Sales expected after five days in the hospital and is do- will determine whether more habanero sandstone Fire escape under construction ing fine without the appendage. acreage is needed next year. was the Speaking of anomalies, we were prevailing startled by sleet on the afternoon of November underlying rock. October 14, the ambient temperature On November 18, Fathers Nicholas being 40°. Several reliable monks—in- Mild and wet weather continued Fuhrmann and Camillus Cooney at- cluding your reliable chronicler—ob- in November, with the first frost very tended the inauguration of the Clinton served this phenomenon. Four days late, on November 27. Fall colors were Presidential Library in Little Rock. later the mercury climbed to 87°. disappointing, leading to the conclu- see “Journal” on page 12 3 Abbey

Jewett Blessing cont’d from page 1 of SSI in Ft. Smith, became two princi- and rededication of the Jewett Annex funds and building. We are grateful to pal figures in the planning and con- and The Arches is the realization of a all and continue to pray for all, but we struction of this $2.7 million renovation dream and a sign of hope for the future single out for recognition J. J. Saleh, in project. ... we hope this renovation will inspire whose honor the renovated refectory Each new room has a private us to personal spiritual renewal and a is being named, and John and Crystal bath. On each floor there is a “com- renewed dedication to the vision that Beuerlein, for their inaugural gift and mon room,” a storage area, a public caused Subiaco to be planted in this for leadership of the capital campaign. My own heart is filled with gratitude today and with prayer for God’s blessing on all of you.” Danny Saleh earlier expressed his father’s long-standing conviction: “J. J. Saleh knew after his first visit to Subiaco Academy that it was the environment he wanted his sons to grow in during high school. The level of dedication and discipline the Benedictine Monks portrayed assured him this school would be a higher standard than anywhere he had considered. Thirty years later Monks in “new” dining room c. 1960’s he read where the renovations for the monks’ quarters were being planned. After watching improvements over the bathroom, and a laundry room. At the part of God’s east end of the Jewett Annex a fire- vineyard.” escape “tower” has been added and at Abbot Je- the northeast corner of the new wing rome contin- is a new elevator capable of accom- ued, during modating a bed or a stretcher. The old, the blessing small elevator installed in 1947 will be ceremony, “As a complement to the new one. The St. we gather to Meinrad refectory will have a new look, bless and re- with a new terrazzo floor, a new ceiling, dedicate this a permanent food buffet line, and a fire- work, we ask escape door at the east end. Still in use God’s bounti- will be the oak tables and chairs, made ful blessings here at the Abbey years ago and refin- upon all ished recently. As it was not possible for those who the monks of 1938-40 to complete the over the building project without the help of Sir years have Monks surveying the destruction of the 1927 fire Charles Jewett and the help of countless supported other benefactors, so the present reno- Subiaco Abbey and Academy and we years for the school, J. J. felt he wanted vated areas would not have come into especially want to thank those who have to contribute to the upgrading of the being without the help of a new genera- contributed to this wonderful work. We monks’ environment.” tion of benefactors. have been touched and humbled by the John Beuerlein reflected with a Abbot Jerome expressed the mo- warm goodwill and support of so many historical perspective: “One hundred nastic community’s hope, “The blessing people during this time of gathering cont’d on page 6 4 Abbey

Renovation blessing - Jan. 8, 2005

Approximately 200 friends of Subiaco Abbey joined with the Benedictine priests and brothers for the blessing and rededication of the Jewett Annex and the Arches (the living quarters of the monks) at 2:00 p.m., January 8, 2005. The generosity of many donors had made possible the year-long $2.7 million renovation project. Donors included John Beuerlein, seen here admiring with Fr. Richard Walz, OSB the “foundation cross” which had been brought to Subiaco by the pioneer monks in 1878, and the late J. J. Saleh, whose widow Angel Saleh viewed with Br. Ephrem O’Bryan, OSB, and Barbara Saleh, woodcuts by Fr. Felix Fredeman, OSB. Three principal figures in the renovation project were architect Wallie Sprick of the Little Rock firm of Wittenberg, Deloney & Davidson, Leo Anhalt, CEO of the Ft. Smith construction firm SSI, and Br. Eric Loran, OSB, liaison for the Abbey. Tours of the renovated four floors followed the ceremony. An additional several hundred toured the facility the following day. 5 Abbey

The Eyes of Faith

On New Year’s Eve, during a mid- 3000-year-old tale, entitled “Manu and This vi- morning trip to nearby Paris, there was the Fish.” In this tale, there is no at- sion beyond, a light rain shower, interspersed with tempt to find justification for the flood, the vision of sunshine. Suddenly, to the northwest, nor explain why Manu was chosen to faith, adds a a glowing rainbow arched through the be saved. Its only message seems to be dimension to our response to a tragedy dark sky. Immediately I found myself that, in the face of capricious nature, which can only be seen and appreci- thinking about Noah and the ark and life was spared and granted a rebirth ated with the eyes of faith. Others can God’s promise (Genesis 9: 14-15): through the obedience and service of only shake their fist at the pitiless sky, “When the bow appears in the clouds, Manu. or give up in despair, or sink into a I will recall the covenant I have made The response to a natural disaster mindless hedonism, or perhaps do their between me and you and all living be- can be entirely rational and pragmatic: best to relieve misery by purely human ings, so that the waters shall never again the mobilization of resources to save effort. The person of faith springs into become a flood to destroy all mortal as many as possible and bring mate- pragmatic action, but with the monastic beings.” In the wake of the tsunami rial assistance to the survivors. A true refrain ringing in his/her ears, giving disaster, the rainbow and its promise religious response must include all such power and wisdom: “O God, come to served as a steadying reassurance. physical assistance, but it also seeks to my assistance. O Lord, make haste to That afternoon National Public find meaning, to see a way through the help me.” Radio carried a story about a Hindu pain to a renewal of life, and to receive flood myth. A lady who had translated and to share a strength beyond what the the story from the Sanskrit read the eye can see.

Jewett Blessing continued from page 4 and twenty six years ago, Fr Wolfgang Schlumpf first set eyes on what Fr. Isidor Hobi had assured him was ‘a paradise fallen from heaven.’ It consist- ed of three small buildings, the largest being a 16 by 16 foot log cabin. No doubt he would be filled with wonder to see this magnificent construction project completed! The success achieved in the Journey of Faith capital campaign was an outpouring of the love so many feel towards Subiaco. We can all take pride that this remodeled facility will serve as an appropriate home for the monks of Subiaco Abbey and for many new voca- tions to follow for decades to come!” The present and future monks who will live in this newly renovated part of the abbey will always be grateful and remember all our benefactors in their Monk & Parish Chapel until the 1927 fire prayers and good works. 6 Academy

Four-year students receive national honors

Senior Jack Willems enjoys writ- Seniors Jack Willems, Cody Ran- ing, sometimes even in idle moments. dall, and Jeffrey Rehm earned the desig- No wonder he was recognized with the nation of an AP Scholar by completing honor of being selected as a National three or more AP courses and scoring a Merit Scholarship semifinalist and an 3 or higher on the AP tests held in May AP Scholar. of 2004. Every year juniors take the National By becoming an AP Scholar, these Merit Scholarship qualifying test, the students can receive credit for college PSAT. Of 1.3 million juniors taking courses, or earn advanced placement in Jack Willems Michael Freerksen the test, 50,000 juniors are recognized certain college courses, or both based on for their academic merit. Only 16,000 their performance on the test. are named semifinalists. Of those, only Qualifying for the scholarships 8200 of the outstanding students are is the result of hard effort at study- chosen to be finalists. ing. According to Willems, his average Willems and Michael Freerksen, studying time is two hours a day. He has four-year seniors at Subiaco Academy, won several awards including winning scored in the top 1% and 5% respec- first place in literary symposium writing tively. Willems is the third Subiaco competition and the Application to Academy student in the past nine years Studies award in 2003. who qualified as the scholarship semifi- Willlems said, “Being qualified nalist. for the scholarship would help where I Jeff Rehm Cody Randall Five Subiaco students earned want to go.” University of Washington Rush. the designation of AP Scholar by the at Saint Louis, where Willems hopes to His first choice for a major is politi- College Board in recognition of their attend, is one of the most prestigious cal science and his goal is “to be a writer exceptional achievement on the college- universities in the nation, according someday.” level AP exams. to academic counselor Mrs. Chandra Third annual Literary Symposium Mr. Bill Dwyre, sports editor of the afternoon session of the symposium Los Angeles Times, was the featured about “A Lifetime of Storytelling and speaker at the third annual Literary the Written Word.” Afterwards, he was Symposium held Nov. 18. given the Symposium Tablet by Mr. Dwyre has worked for the Los Greg Rust (‘66), the coordinator of the Angeles Times for 18 years. He was Symposium. previously employed by the Milwaukee Dwyre lightened the atmosphere Journal and the Des Moines Register & with his humorous attitude and sto- Bill Dwyre [center] in conversation with Tribune. [L to R] Sebastian Scott, John Gourlay and rytelling. “Compelling storytelling A communications graduate of Michael Stuth fascinates me,” said Dwyre. Notre Dame (‘66), Dwyre has been a As sports editor of the Los Angeles Dwyre told many stories about his speaker at the American Press Institute Times, his responsibilities range from past and about Jim Murray, who accord- for 15 years. overseeing a department of 100 people ing to Dwyre, was the best sports writer. Dwyre received the coveted Red and a multi-million dollar budget, to He admired Murray for his one-liners, Smith Award in 1996, an award given making the final decision for the sports wit, and storytelling. by the AP Sports Editors Association for section of the Los Angeles Times every- Dwyre was recognized as an hon- service to sports journalism and is cur- day. orary alumnus and presented with a rently serving as its chairman. Mr. Dwyre spoke during the Subiaco tie and certificate. 7 Academy Career Day presenters share knowledge

Career Day, held Monday, Novem- general manager of a large oil corpora- ber 1, broadened the horizon for many tion and is now starting his own busi- students still wondering where the road ness. He stated the importance of being may lead them as ten presenters, most open to change and accepting challeng- Joe Hebert graduates of Subiaco Academy, dis- es. Athletic Director Tim Tencleve told ‘96 opens cussed their career choice with students. students that to be a coach they needed his medical Architecture was represented by to get satisfaction from kids, not money bag used in Iraq where Rolando Martinez ’01 and Wally and fame. he served as a Sprick ’77. Martinez is in his fifth year Chris Strempek ’83 is an entrepre- medic of study at the University of Arkansas at neur in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and Fayetteville and Sprick, a graduate from has started numerous small businesses. the University’s architecture program, is He discussed the remarkably small suc- a member of an architecture firm. cess rate of small businesses and the risks Joe Hebert ’96, along with Mrs. of starting a business. Del Berry and Br. Isaac Youker, dis- Br. Mel Sintson provided students cussed the vast possibilities offered in with information of his life before enter- nursing. Hebert, a graduate of Arkan- ing the monastery. He also touched on sas Tech University, served in Iraq as a the hardships endured while transfer- medic and is enrolling in Arkansas State ring from monasteries and his calling to University’s anesthesiology program. Subiaco. He asked students to keep their Zach Truemper ’01, a student at hearts and minds open to the possibility the University of Arkansas, talked about of the religious life. what not to do in college while Drew Colin McClain, a graphic design Daniel ’76 gave valuable tips for success professor at the University of Arkansas in life. at Fort Smith, listed the skills neces- Gene Wahl ’69, trained as a lawyer, sary to be a graphic designer and also is a Coast Guard-certified captain who impressed students with his strength ships yachts around the world. Wahl in- and humor. Chris Strempek ‘83 answers business formed students on the value of a coast questions from Cody Wright at the end of one guard license to provide different angles of the presentations of business growth and potential ways of making money. Vince Tate ’86, a graduate of Hen- drix University in accounting, has been Youth 2000 provides sacred time A Youth 2000 Festival was held network of youth gathered in prayer closer relationship with God. September 24-26, 2004, at Immacu- around the Blessed Sacrament. Students who attended Youth 2000 late Heart of Mary Parish Life Center, “Youth 2000 helped the students felt overwhelmed by the hospitality located in North Little Rock. understand their Catholic faith and that they received. Many want to go Youth 2000 is an autonomous gave them an opportunity to share their the next year. “I enjoy going because it international initiative of young peo-ple faith with other Catholic students at increases my love in God,” said senior working in cooperation with clergy, reli- their age,” said Br. Mel Stinson, Coury Daniel Miller. gious and lay people around the world. House director. The intention of Youth 2000 was Youth 2000 provided sacrament, to promote a devotion to Jesus and adoration, prayer, talks, meditation, Mary through Rosary and a worldwide and music to draw young people in to a 8 Academy

Musical “Apple Tree” features local talent Subiaco’s music department pre- Andres Ramirez, Nathaniel Schluter- sented its first musical performance of man, Sebastian Scott, and Scott Vitro. the year, a three-act play called “Apple The female roles were played by Han- Tree” by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Har- nah Hixon and Rebecca Schluterman nick. of Scranton and Summer Patterson, The acts were based on “The Dia- Miranda Sewell and Elizabeth Thias of ries of Adam and Eve” by Mark Twain, Paris. “The Lady or the Tiger” by Frank The pit band consisted of Ian Myers Stockton, and “Passionella” by Jules on bass guitar, Director of Instrumental Feifer. had to develop character and there is a Music Roy Goetz on percussion, and All three acts involved the rela- plotline in each of the short acts,” said Bruce Dersch on keyboards. tionships of men and women and the Mr. Dersch. “The cast and crew have been work- humorous friction between them. The The cast included Mark Kiefer as ing since August getting this production music linked the stories together the- Adam, Sanjar, and Flip “The Prince ready. Besides learning lines and music, matically as did the color brown. Charming”; Emily Thias as Eve, Prin- there has been much behind-the-scenes Director of choir Bruce Dersch was cess Barbara, and Ella; Donald Goetz work getting lights repaired, cleaned, also director of the play. Mr. Dersch as the narrator; Thomas Lucier as the and hung correctly,” said Mr. Dersch. has directed musicals for the past two balladeer; and Michael Freerksen as the Admission was free for both per- years at Subiaco. “The play was totally snake. formances. The first performance on different from last year’s musical since it Supporting roles and the chorus November 20 was open to the public is not a revue like ‘You’re a Good Man, consisted of Gabriel Becker, Michael and second performance on Monday, Charlie Brown.’ The students actually Becker, John Gourlay, Victor Mendoza, Nov. 22 was for students. Top musicians featured in jazz band With the arrival of band direc- in a band but I have to have something tor Mr. Roy Goetz, Subiaco’s band has to fall back on,” said Myers. become a valued asset, by both par- Michael Freerksen, who also joined ticipants and the audience. Mr. Goetz the band as a sophomore, plays the believes a band cannot function success- guitar, bass, drums, piano, and also fully with individuals; everyone has to sings. He plans to attend the University do his part. of Arkansas at Fort Smith. However, There have been a few members he is not going to pursue a career in who have risen to the top and are noted music; rather he plans to be an anesthe- for their musical talent. Ian Myers (12), siologist. He does plan on playing in a Michael Freerksen (12), Mark Kiefer college band. less player,” stated Mr. Goetz. “I can give (12) and Francis Yuk (11) have thrived Mark Kiefer also plans to attend him a sheet of music and the next day he at Subiaco. the UofA at Fort Smith and major in can play it.” Ian Myers has been in the band music education. When asked what in- The band will travel to San Antonio since his sophomore year when he struments he played, he replied, “What on April 7-10 to perform in the Battle of received the music award in recognition don’t I play?” He plays bass, guitar, the Bands. Also a one-hour gig has been of his achievements. He plays the bass, drums, saxophone, and the tuba. Kiefer arranged at the Hard Rock Café. “This guitar, drums, piano, trumpet and the also has grand ambitions. “I’m gonna be is very exciting,” explained Mr. Goetz baritone. Myers plans to attend Berklee a rock star,” he stated with a twinkle in but “bitter-sweet.” It will be a great year College of Music in Boston, MA, where his eyes. with so much senior talent, but next he plans to major in music production Francis Yuk plays the piano and year will be concentrated on rebuilding. and engineering and then work as a re- keyboard. He received the Music Award cording engineer. “I still dream of being last year as a sophomore. “He is a flaw- 9 Alumni Distinguished alumnus dies

James Sontag ’49 passed away De- Reunion contact cember 26, 2004, in Claremore, OK. Jim enrolled at Subiaco Academy persons in 1944 in the eighth grade, from Tulsa, OK, and graduated in 1949. While at 1950—Eugene Poirot the Academy he worked on both the Phone 281-424-4333 Pax and the Periscope. 1955—Mike Cooney He served in the United States Phone 972-238-9373 Army during the Korean Conflict and 1960—Vincent Verfuerth returned to St. Benedict’s College in Phone 410-536-5123 Atchison, Kansas, to complete the 1965—Raymond Saranie requirements for his undergraduate Phone 870-673-3160 degree. In 1961 he received his law 1970—Michael Welch degree from University of Tulsa College Phone 501-315-9065 of Law. He was in private practice of 1975—Bill Kosub law in Oklahoma for many years and Phone 254-867-4216 served as County Attorney, District At- 1980—Chris Guidry torney and District Judge. He received Phone 985-652-4479 the Benjamin Cardozo Award for Legal 1985—Randall Blaschke Excellence in 1993, was recognized as James Sontag ‘49 Phone 479-934-4626 District Judge of the Year by the Okla- 1990—Tommy Scott homa Bar Association in 1995, and as Phone 318-524-1441 the Outstanding Family Law Judge by the Association from 1962 to 1964. In 1995—Carl Stengel the Family Law section of the Okla- 2000 the Association recognized him as Phone 479-635-8410 homa Bar Association in 1998. a Distinguished Alumnus. 2000—Ricco Ardemagni In addition to his service in a His wife, Dell; a son, Phil ‘74; a Phone 479-527-9887 variety of civic and charitable organiza- daughter, Lisa Kissee; a sister, Charlene tions, Judge Sontag has been an active Sontag and nine grandchildren survive leader of the Subiaco Alumni Associa- him. MAKE YOUR PLANS FOR tion for the last 40 years. He has served on the Association’s Board of Directors CAMP SUBIACO since 1964 and served as President of JUNE 19-25, 2005

BOYS AGES 9 TO 13 Reunion date set

June 3, 4, 5 have been set for the end will remain the same but questions contact with him. 2005 reunion of the Subiaco Alumni remain regarding entertainment and The Ladies Auxiliary are finalizing Association. Plans were begun at the Distinguished Alumnus Awards. plans for their activities for the week- meeting of the Alumni Board in the Fifth year anniversary classes will end. October 18th meeting and will be final- again be honored, so if you graduated in Registration packets will be mailed ized at a meeting on January 8th. Early a year ending in 5 or 0 you need to be out by March 1st, with all details of the activities will begin with a golf tourna- making plans to attend the reunion this weekend along with reservation forms ment on Friday afternoon and reunion year. A list of contact people appears in and 200 club tickets. registration starting at 3:00 p.m. this issue. If you haven’t been contacted The general outline of the week- by your class contact you need to make 10 Alumni Where are they now?

Chris Strempek ’83 reports that his with the Navy. Major Paul Frederick Sam Brindley ’75 is employed by Dallas company does landscaping for ’86 returned from Baghdad on October TTM Technologies Inc. in Redmond, the headquarters of the Dallas Cowboys. 5th and then spent two weeks training WA, as an Environmental Engineering Craig Bohna ‘81 stopped by to vis- the next unit going over. Manager. TTM is currently the largest it with the monks and also saw Coach Jason Gehrig ’89 sent word from printed circuit board manufacturer in Branham on his way to Oklahoma from Bolivia that his wife Felicia and he are the U.S. He and his wife Karen have his home in Pittsburgh, PA. the proud parents of Nicholas Michael, two daughters, Beija and Cassandra. Eric Tsai ’01 is in his fourth year born September 9th. Big sister Jessica is Ronald Davis ’63 has retired from of college in Japan. He is preparing to quite the helper, even offering to carry teaching in the public schools after a do an internship with the Investment Nicholas on her back in a blanket as career of 29 years in the college and Banking Division of Credit Suisse First their indigenous women neighbors do. elementary levels. He and his wife Boston. He reports that Nick Tybur- Mike Kraus ’72 is presently work- continue to give private music lessons ski ’98 in working in a similar position ing for Lockheed Martin Corporation and plan worship services for their local with Morgan Stanley. in San Jose, CA, as a program manager. congregation in Owosso, Michigan. LaMarcus Irvin ’03 was named He and his wife have two children, a Chad Simmons ’92 and his new All-Conference for the Gulf South Con- boy 19 and a girl 17. bride have moved to Bedford, TX, to ference. LaMarcus plays defensive back Jonah Blossom ’95, after three help start a new office in Fort Worth for Arkansas Tech. years with the graphics software com- for the environmental consulting firm, Enrique Gonzales ’02 competes pany, MetaCreation, has been with a CH2M Hill. Chad has been with the for the Belmont Abbey College Tennis creative services agency called Impos- firm since his graduation from Texas team. sible, Inc. for five years. He heads up Tech in 1998. Joe Hemphill ’87 organized a the technology side of things—creating The Simmons brothers Phil ’84, memorial Mass at the Abbey for his web-based applications to streamline Paul ’86 and Frank ’88 are all living in grandmother, Beulah Hunt, on Novem- business processes. the Memphis area. Phil, married with ber 20, 2004. Jason Priakos ’90 after spending 3 daughters and 1 son, sells processing Pete Sarullo ’77 is in the construc- five years at NCR Corp has accepted equipment. Paul is also married and tion business in Madison, MS, and does a new role at Cognos Software as the works as a shop foreman for a sheet volunteer work in Central America. Partner Development Manager. He has metal company. Frank got married last Bill Torp ’81 has two children in a one year old daughter Mallory. spring and works for a food distributor. the third grade. He recently won Area Zac Hebert ’01 works for the Austin Chappelle ’41 says he is Store Manager of the Year for Sherwin United States Department of State, still alive and living in Tyrone, NM. He Williams, out of a group of 500 stores. Boston passport Agency and attends hopes to attend the reunion next June. He then was promoted to an Outside Boston University at night, studying Gene (Blue) Robbins ‘75 and Sales representative in Waco, TX. English. Pastimes include “watching a his wife Kate, the sister of Pat Weaver A photograph of Michael Sch- lot of movies and oil painting.” ’76 & Joe Weaver ’78, have been neider ’03 appeared in the September Storm Gloor ’83 is working on an transferred, by their employer CITGO 4, 2004, Arkansas Catholic; he and MBA, planning to teach in a university Petroleum, to Houston, Texas. Blue is a other Catholic students were visiting or stay in the music business. He can Sr. Crude Oil Trader and Kate is Public the Catholic campus ministry booth at still recall as he did 20+ years ago names Affairs Manager. Arkansas State University’s Community of top tunes for specific weeks of specific Fair in Jonesboro, AR. years. More on Alums in the service: Nick Choffel ’03 reports that Bruce Reeves ’84 is in Kuwait, Bren- things are going well at Texas A&M dan McHugh ’88 is in the Air Force where he is majoring in Aerospace and moves frequently, and Ray Castel- engineering. lane ’70 will fly to Iraq early in 2005. Jerry Martin ’51 and wife Ann cel- Chris Pickartz ’96, a teacher and coach ebrated their 50th wedding Anniversary at the Academy left for basic training on Oct. 24th. 11 Abbey Journal cont’d from page 3 They returned with soggy programs monks who saw the discoloration said the kitchen and wet feet, but quite impressed by the that the defect did not seem that drastic. (Where structure and by the demeanor of the I suppose the company’s reputation was else?) as the celebrants. on the line, and so up it came. Many dry chemi- Fr. Hugh Assenmacher had heart monks filched shards of the debris as cal fire surgery (valve replacement) on No- souvenirs of the debacle. We were extinguisher vember 23. He returned a week later, amazed at the adamantine nature of system mal- clutching his heart pillow, and showing this man-made substance. It refused functioned. off the “zipper” in his chest. He has to be removed except by chipping it The stoves since resumed light duty—if you can away with the underlying concrete still were cov- ever call being choirmaster and organist adhering. Remember the recommenda- ered with in a monastery a “light duty.” tion of a hazardous duty citation for the inches of St. Benedict (inner court) Skeins of geese were overhead kitchen crew? How about combat pay! powder and shrouded in snow the day after Thanksgiving, trying, it Now, at year’s end, the new, new floor is surround- seemed, to get “australated,” or headed being polished. ing areas south. Not a moment too soon, as the On the afternoon of Dec. 22 the received a dusting. Janet Robinson and first hard freeze came on December first. snow began and we ended up with a Paulette Freeman called for help, and A lightning strike on Nov. 23rd ex- pretty four inches of rather dry snow. did not find the singing of “I’m Dream- ploded a lightning arrestor and damaged Then the cold set in with lows of 12, ing of a White Christmas” very helpful. some high-voltage fuses. Over the next 11, and 10 on successive days, giving us About a dozen monks worked until 9 week, power outages became routine as the first White Christmas for quite a few p.m.—some with a break for Solemn these damaged fuses failed. Our power years. Christmas evening, just as the Christmas Vespers—to hose down the company, Oklahoma Gas and Electric, community was going to the evening floor, wash all the equipment and dishes came to our rescue by providing several meal, there was an indoor snowstorm in “Journal” cont’d on page 16 rare replacement fuses. At month’s end, the terrazzo floor for the monastic refectory was being installed. Once again, the ladies—and Italian tour planned men—in the kitchen had noisy grinding This summer Fr. Aaron is leading the way. Three days in Rome include just overhead. Those poor folks merit a a group of pilgrims/tourists on a tour a tour of Vatican City, the museums hazardous duty citation, at least! of Rome and northern Italy. The tour and the Scavi, the area below St. Peter leaves on June 18 and returns to the Basilica. There will be opportunity December United States on July 3. for personal excursions and shopping Fr. Aaron says: “We fly into Milan in the local establishments, at each In a ranking of “news stories of and then take a bus to Lake Como overnight stay.” For more information December,” the Solemnity of Christ- where we will spend four nights. The and a detailed itinerary, please contact mas would likely get fifth place this days will be taken up with private lake Mr. Harold Partain (McCabe Travel) year. The real newsmakers—at least cruises on Lakes Como, Maggiore, and at 972-771- on the superficial level that grabs at- Orta. Visits will include Bellagio, Villa 2829. Space tention—were: the ripping up of the Balbianello, Sacro Monte and many is limited to new terrazzo floor in the refectory, the churches and chapels. We continue 20-24 people. four-inch snowfall and cold spell, the to Santa Margherita with a stopover fire extinguisher accident in the kitchen, in Genoa. From Genoa there will be and the tsunami in the Indian Ocean. a wine tasting tour near Montalcino The head of the company which and a visit to Monte Oliveto Mag- installed the terrazzo floor rejected the giore. From here the bus winds its job and required that it be re-done. The way to Rome with many stops along Fr. Aaron 12 Abbey Moral values are community values by Dan Conway Ed. Note: Daniel Conway is Senior Vice For most secular political commen- al liberty and the common good. While President of RSI Catholic Services Group tators, and some politicians, religion it’s certainly true that the United States of Dallas, Texas. is considered to be a private matter. of America is a diverse, pluralistic soci- He is a teacher, writer and consultant They seem to think that individuals are ety, it would be a great mistake to think who specializes in strategic planning entitled to their religious beliefs and that the majority of Americans regard and stewardship education. Over the practices only as long as they keep them religious and moral values as personal years, Dan has assisted Subiaco Abbey to themselves. What always seems to beliefs that do not influence public ac- and Academy in its planning and capital surprise (and repulse?) the pundits is tions or civic responsibilities. fundraising. His editorial is reprinted the passionate, public manifestation of In fact, most if not all of the issues from The Criterion, the weekly newspaper strongly-held religious values. discussed in the 2004 elections (includ- of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. In fact whenever people take an ing the threat of terrorism, the challeng- unpopular stand based on religious es facing our economy and our handling convictions, they run the risk of being of the war in Iraq) are issues with grave Much of the political commen- labeled “extremist.” It’s as if the Ameri- moral consequences. tary following the 2004 elections has People who are motivated by focused on the commentators’ surprise profound religious convictions cannot at the role “moral values” played in the afford to ignore any of these issues if outcome of local, state and national “...by their very nature reli- they are serious about the welfare of our elections. According to an Associated gious values must speak to the nation and our world. But it is equally Press exit poll, opposition to abortion, foundational issues of human true that our society cannot afford to stem-cell research and same-sex mar- pretend that matters concerning the riage, which secular pundits classify as society or risk being swept dignity of human life and the sanctity “religious” values, overshadowed the aside as totally of marriage are somehow “private” or economy, terrorism and the war in Iraq irrelevant.” outside of the realm of political dis- as decisive political issues. The fact that course. By definition, moral values are political commentators are surprised by community values, and by their very this reveals something very significant, nature religious values must speak to and very sad, about the current state of can tradition of separation of church the foundational issues of human soci- political discourse in our country. and state is violated whenever someone ety or risk being swept aside as totally How did it happen that “the ex- (or some group) “goes public” with a irrelevant. perts” came to regard fundamental issues religiously-grounded position that calls Let’s pray that the 2004 elections, like the right to life and the sanctity of into question the culturally accepted which regrettably displayed some of the marriage as less important than other values of the day. most bitter, partisan rhetoric in modern key issues? Why would anyone be sur- What this secular worldview fails U.S. history, can help to bridge the gap prised to learn that Americans take these to recognize is that religious (or moral) that apparently exists between political matters quite seriously? Could it be that values are not simply “personal opin- issues and moral values. the pundits and the mainstream media ions.” They are, or should be, deeply- Let’s look to our diverse religious are out of touch with the concerns of held convictions that bind communities traditions and values in America to ordinary people? together - for the sake of both individu- discover principles of unity and mu- tual respect and to restore civility and ARE YOU RECEIVING THE harmony to our local communities and MONTHLY ALUMNI E-MAIL to our nation. “subi.org”? KEEP UP WITH ALL THE NEWS SEND YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS TO: [email protected] 13 Development

Development Director’s Message

The new year, 2005, will be well Another important gift which have made underway when you read this, but we we have received during the last year retreats, been want to wish you all God’s blessings. was from Ron and Mary Lensing of ministered to This issue of the Abbey Message North Little Rock, AR, who are long in our parishes includes quite a bit about the renova- time friends of Subiaco and leaders in - all we have tion of the Jewett Annex and “The the Marriage Encounter Movement in touched give Arches” area of the monastery that has Arkansas. With a strong background thanks daily for taken place during the past year. We are in education as a science teacher and the gifts that truly grateful to all our benefactors for principal, Mary is presently serving as have made it all the wonderful support that made this a member of our School Board. It is possible. work possible. As the monks move into inspiring to hear their reasoning behind Thank you, their newly renovated rooms, we are their gift. Ron and Mary feel that God and may the daily reminded of the generosity of our has richly blessed them and they felt Good Lord Bless and keep you during benefactors and our pledge to keep you an obligation to be good stewards with this new year. in our prayers. what God has given them. Writing The prayer hotline begun three recently, Mary said: “...we feel we were months ago has proven to be a good only instruments in being good stewards means of letting us know your prayer of His blessing to needs, and we encourage you to con- us.” tinue to make use of this opportunity. Subiaco Abbey We have been receiving on average more and Academy is in- than two calls per day. That is in addi- debted to the many tion to the many requests we have for generous people who prayers for deceased loved ones during support our work November and in connection with the here. But even more, 2005 calendar mailing. We are grateful the many students for your sharing with us your prayer who have benefited needs and we assure you that we have from an education your intentions daily in our prayers. here, the many who From time to time Subiaco receives Ron & Mary Lensing with Fr. Richard at the recent blessing bequests that go far in helping build up the endowment or fill some pressing need at the time. Recently we received Remember Subiaco in your will such a bequest from Gertrude E. Maus, a first cousin of our former longtime Endowment to educational and religious institu- coach, Reynold Maus. Gertrude was tions is often made by bequest. By remembering us in the last of 3 brothers and 3 sisters who grew up in Atkins, AR, and belonged to your will, you can help to guarantee the future financial Assumption Church there. In pledging security of Subiaco Abbey and Academy. This form of a portion of her estate to help Subiaco “building for the future” is available to all friends of Abbey, Gertrude said: “It will go for a very good cause.” Her earnest prayer Subiaco Abbey, regardless of the size of their estate or was for vocations to the religious life their present financial responsibilities. and priesthood. 14 Development Prayer hotline in operation by Judith Weaver

Ed. Note: The following is excerpted We mean we pray for them dur- from the December 4, 2004, issue of Ar- ing the Mass, the Divine Office kansas Catholic. and our personal prayer. We are in line with our Benedictine “Have no anxiety at all, but in tradition, by reaching out to everything, by prayer and petition, bring healing and comfort in with thanksgiving, make your requests the same way as St. Benedict, known to God.” (Phil. 4:6) This is the who was very aware of the needs basis for the new Prayer Hotline started of the wider world outside the by the monks of Subiaco Abbey. Father monastery.” Nicholas Fuhrmann, OSB, originated “When callers leave their the idea for the 24 hours-a-day toll-free name and address with their number. prayer request, the abbey sends “A hotline is a place where you can a card listing all the names of get help. Everybody has needs,” Father Br. Joseph Heath answering the Prayer Hotline the monks in the community, Fuhrmann said. “God wants us to ex- their prayer partners,” said Fa- press those needs in prayer. People are on the hotline, which began in Octo- ther Richard Walz, the abbey’s director reassured in times of illness, difficulty or ber, or callers may speak with a monk of development. Brother Joseph Heath, crisis, knowing someone is praying for from 6:30-7:30p.m. daily. Besides the one of the seven monks who man the them.” hotline, the monks send wellness and prayer hotline in the evening, added, Names and intentions called into condolence cards as part of this spiritual “The connection of people to monks in the hotline number are monitored and outreach ministry. prayer works to the good of everyone mentioned each evening during Vespers “When we say ‘you are in our concerned.” as well as being posted on the monks’ prayers,’” Father Fuhrmann said, “we bulletin board. Messages may be left are sending a surge of grace and peace to those who ask for this remembrance.

Throughout history, one October 2004. This prayer of the day you will be able of the primary ministries line is open 24 hours a day, to leave a message that of monks has been to every day. One of the monks will be picked up during intercede for the prayer is available from 6:30 p.m.- the time when the line is needs of God’s people. 7:30 p.m. daily in order to monitored. We encourage In our desire to better acknowledge and include you to make use of the meet your prayer needs, your prayer needs in the Prayer Hotline. Let us join Subiaco Abbey instituted daily prayers of the monastic you in praying for your the Prayer Hotline in community. At other hours needs. The telephone number to call is: 1-800-350-5889

15 Abbey Journal cont’d from page 12 in the entire kitchen, and get the stoves near 70°. Workmen are again hard at functioning again. No one knows what work, but the word has come down that caused the powdery storm. We hope the renovation will not be completed th the supply of chemical is exhausted in time for the January 8 dedication until the source of the malfunction can ceremony. However, this will occur as be determined. scheduled, and the job will be finished The year ended with balmy days, when it is finished.

Upcoming retreats and events at Coury House Feb. 4 - 6: Arkansas Knights of Columbus retreat by Fr. Gregory G. Hart, director. Feb. 10 - 13: **Confraternity of Christian Mothers, Diocese of Tulsa, OK. Feb. 18 - 20: The Diocesan Council of Black Catholics retreat. Feb. 21 - 25: **Connected In Christ. Rev. Michael Roberts, director. The Abbey Message Feb. 25 - 27: St. Louis Parish Men, Memphis, TN. Fr. Gregory Pilcher, OSB, is a composite quarterly director publication of Subiaco Abbey. Feb. 22 - 23: ** NCCL Province conference. Publisher March 4 - 6: **Deacon’s and wives retreat, diocese of Tulsa. Abbot Jerome Kodell, OSB March 9: Catholic Women’s Union day of recollection. March 11 - 13: Subiaco Academy parents weekend. Editor in Chief March 18 - 20: Palm Sunday retreat: “From Hosanna to the Cross, to the Fr. Mark Stengel, OSB Resurrection.” Join us for prayer and reflection as we begin this Editorial Staff Holy Week. Celebrate the traditional palm procession and Mass Fr. Richard Walz, OSB with the Monks. Mrs. Hermina Fox April 1 - 3: Serra Club Retreat by Abbot Jerome Kodell, OSB, director. Mr. Don Berend April 3 - 8: **Connected In Christ. Rev. Michael Roberts, director. Mrs. Gina Schluterman April 8 - 10: **A United Methodist Ministers Retreat. St. Paul’s Episcopal Mrs. Timmie Geels Cathedral Parish. OKC, OK. Rev. Luke Back, director. Design and Layout April 15 - 17: Subiaco Abbey Oblate Retreat. Br. Mel Stinson, OSB, director. Fr. Richard Walz, OSB April 22 - 23: **ASU child development seminar. Br. Jude Schmitt, OSB April 24-29: **Connected in Christ. Rev. Michael Roberts, director. Br. Ephrem O’Bryan, OSB April 25-29: **Companions of St. Andrew. Apr. 29 - May 1: The Abbey Retreat League retreat and meeting. Press ** indicates special group retreat. Br. Paul Edmonston, OSB Send changes of address Coury House Weekend Retreat rates include two nights and six meals. and comments to: A shared room: $95. Private room: $130. Married couple: $175. The Abbey Message Subiaco Abbey Rates for private retreats or days of recollection are available upon request. 405 North Subiaco Avenue The Coury House office is open Monday thru Saturday from 8:30— 4:30 Subiaco, AR 72865-9798 Call us at: 479-934-4411 or 934-1290 Subiaco’s Website The Coury House Book Store and Gift Shop www.subi.org offers quality religious articles and books for spiritual growth and direction. The Abbey Message E-mail Call Br. James Lindsey, OSB at: 479-934-4041 or 479-934-1292 [email protected] Check our web site: www.subi.org or e-mail us at: [email protected] Or at [email protected] 16