Y L R E T R A U Q

Steven Smith is invested as a Benedictine novice of Saint Meinrad Archabbey by Archabbot Kurt Stasiak, OSB, on September 28, 2019. We depend on God’s promises

Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you… ” Genesis 12:1

Thus begins the formation of the people of receive the Holy Spirit, and we are marked God. God calls Abram, promising to make with the indelible seal of Christ. Now the him a father of many people, a holder of challenges and intrigue, and even some land, and a blessing to the families of the testing, begin to unfold as we grow into the earth. fullness of the faithfulness of God.

What God’s promising ultimately means is As Benedictine , we take promising revealed as the rest of the story unfolds. seriously. Through our baptismal and Often there is much intrigue and challenge, promises, we respond to God’s even some testing of worthiness, yet faithfulness as we choose to daily live in the throughout we see that if God is promising, light of Christ and by the Rule of St. we can trust those promises to be true. Benedict . Kathleen Polansky, oblate Life for us means depending upon God’s New Salisbury, IN promises. In baptism we begin to live in the promise that we are now full members of the Church and the family of God. We receive the promise that our sins are forgiven, we

QUARTERLY FOR BENEDICTINE OBLATES OF SAINT MEINRAD Winter 2020, Volume 26:1 A POINT TO PONDER FROM Are we faithful to our promises?

Promise? the day when the promise is made), but Yes, I promise. such is human nature, affected with an The Rule Really? (unhealthy) dose of original sin. “Great care and Yes, honey, really. Cross your heart and Have we been faithful to what we have concern are to be hope to die? promised? An even bolder question would shown in receiving be: do we ever thank God for the promises Well, that last He has made to us? Although we forget it poor people and question certainly so many times, our relationship to God is Archabbot Kurt pilgrims, because in Stasiak, OSB raised the stakes a a two-way street. bit! them more particularly God promised Abraham he would be the Christ is received.” In that never-to-be-experienced ideal father of a great nation. He kept that Rule of St. Benedict, 53:15 world, we wouldn’t need written, multi- promise. He promised through the page contracts to back up our prophets that He would send the world a “Hospitality is one form of agreements. Our word, perhaps solemnly savior. He kept that promise as well. And, worship,” the rabbis wrote. sealed with the gesture of a handshake, like Father like Son! Jesus promised his Benedictine spirituality takes this would suffice. disciples that He would be with them tendency seriously. (Joan always, and that He would send them the Chittister, OSB) Our world, however, seems to thrive on Holy Spirit. “revised words” (to put it charitably). We are to be generous and warm- We so often revise or refine our We are not always faithful, and for that we hearted to the needy – poor both promises. We say, “I didn’t mean that ,” repent. But God always makes good on his in body and spirit. Be concerned or perhaps, “You’re reading too much promises. It is no wonder that, during the with the needs of others. into what I said.” ceremony of solemn vows, the newly professed and the community Jesus offered great kindness to the And we know that even the most solemn solemnly chant these most reassuring poor. Our faith helps us to promises – those of husband and wife to words: Uphold me, O Lord, according to penetrate the mask of poverty and each other, of newly ordained priests to your promise, and I shall live. And do not brokenness of another, behind their bishops, and religious men and confound me in my expectations . which Christ hides. women professing solemn vows to God To follow the Benedictine way and their communities – are far too Archabbot Kurt Stasiak, OSB means to receive and support the often “taken back.” Sad, tragic, Saint Meinrad Archabbey poor. In so doing, Christ Himself unfortunate (and certainly unforeseen on is received.

Ben edictine Oblate Quarterly is published The new Quarterly: Focused on formation four times a year by Saint Meinrad Archabbey. Editor: Mary Jeanne Schumacher I have been reading Our oblates live all over the United States Designer: Tammy Schuetter the oblate newsletter and beyond. Many of them have very few Oblate Director: Janis Dopp for close to 30 opportunities in their lives to visit Saint Oblate Chaplain: Fr. Joseph Cox, OSB years, and it has Meinrad. Some of them feel isolated and Editorial Staff: Kathleen Polansky, Brenda Black, Angie McDonald been a source of find it difficult to cultivate their continued support relationship with the . While we Send changes of address and comments to on my journey as a have 18 chapters, hundreds of oblates are The Editor, Development Office, Benedictine oblate. not living close to any of them or to any Saint Meinrad Archabbey, A couple of years other oblates. Janis Dopp 200 Hill Dr., St. Meinrad, IN 47577, ago, we realized the (812) 357-6817, fax (812) 357-6325 oblate newsletter is the best tool for We decided to create a format for this or email [email protected] www.saintmeinrad.org ongoing formation, since it is mailed to publication that would focus on ongoing ©2020, Saint Meinrad Archabbey all our oblates four times a year. formation. Each issue has a theme that is 2 developed in most of the articles from a in context for a deeper understanding of OBLATES variety of perspectives – from the what St. Benedict taught and how the In their own words to our novices. This change has been practices have been lived out over the well received. We even heard from oblate centuries. directors in other about the exceptional content of our publication. It We are the living part of an incredible is, in fact, much more than a newsletter. heritage and tradition. We want to treasure our role in the line of holy men With this issue, we are renaming this and women who understood the value of publication Benedictine Oblate Quarterly . the way of life they had chosen. Our emphasis will continue to be on producing a valuable tool for your Let’s continue to study together, share our spiritual growth, and our goal is to insights with one another, and contribute enhance the quality of our articles. to the Benedictine legacy we have embraced as our own as oblates of Saint The practices that we use daily as Meinrad Archabbey. Benedictine oblates help us to keep the Janis Dopp promises we made at our oblation. But, Oblate Director Oblate John Lehner it’s also important to put those practices South Bend, IN “The greatest sense of Musings from the Chaplain blessing of the

The word, Scripture is filled with promises. The Lord community is my “promising” may has promised to supply every need we relationship with other be used as an have, and that God’s grace is sufficient for adjective or a verb. us. God has promised that all things work oblates and the . An example as an together for good for those who love and I can talk to anyone, adjective may be, serve Him faithfully. God has promised us “The sun is shining victory over death and eternal life. almost anytime. this morning and the day looks The Lord’s promises to us are many and Everybody has an Fr. Joseph Cox, OSB promising.” Here it they fill us with hope. Since God is pure open ear. I learn from refers to being encouraging, bright and truth, then what God says, goes. It doesn’t hopeful. An example as a verb may be, “I get any more promising than this. them and hopefully am promising to be loyal to you.” Here others get a few it concerns giving assurance or giving Fr. Joseph Cox, OSB one’s word to do something. Oblate Chaplain insights from me.”

We are all accustomed to promises. We are also accustomed to seeing them made and broken. Anyone who has lived for a number of years certainly never would claim to have kept every promise made. Hopefully over the years, we become wiser and so we think seriously about the possible consequences of keeping or breaking promises before we make them. Through the baptismal promises that we has been set for made, or our godparents made for us, we promised to renounce sin, reject evil, and affirm our faith in the Holy Trinity and March 9, 2020. the Church. alumni.saintmeinrad.edu/DOS Notes for Novices The oblation of our promises

Benedict is quite promise to remain stable to life-long Obedience to the will of God reminds clear that conversion in obedience to God. us that God will give each of us what newcomers to we need to do his will by following the monastic life Monks and oblates fulfill these the way that Jesus has shown us. Our are to be told promises differently, though the promises to God comfort us when we about the overall essence is the same: being true fail and remind us to begin anew in hardships and to oneself in all humility to God and the present moment. difficulties that for others. lead to God, so This is why discernment in the Br. Stanley Rother the monastic Stability of heart ensures that we ask is so vital to our life as Wagner, OSB community can for the courage to stay put when harsh . discern whether novices truly seek difficulties arise. Fidelity to the spirit God (see RB ch. 58). Only once this of the monastic life enables us to Br. Stanley Rother Wagner, OSB initial testing and discernment are recommit to our promises each day, Oblate Novice Mentor completed can novices make a despite the ups and downs of life. Cause for Canonization of Benedictine Oblate continues

Benedictine Oblate Dorothy Day’s If you receive a favor or miracle from Oblates of Saint Meinrad Archabbey cause for canonization has been under God through her intercession, please have committed to praying the way since 2000. Cardinal John email Msgr. Gregory Mustaciuolo at following prayer for the canonization O’Connor began the process, which [email protected]. of Doroty Day on the first Thursday was continued by Cardinal Timothy You can learn more at www.dorothy of every month. N Dolan in November 2012. dayguild.org.

Laywoman Dorothy Day made her Prayer for the Canonization of Servant of God Dorothy Day oblation at Holy Innocents Church, NY, on April 26, 1955, for St. (1897-1980) Procopius in Lisle, IL, with which she had been familiar since God our Father, Your servant Dorothy Day exemplified the 1940. She co-founded the Catholic Catholic faith by her life of prayer, voluntary poverty, , Worker movement in 1933 with and the justice and peace of the Gospel of Jesus. French immigrant and former Christian Peter Maurin, a May her life inspire your people to turn to Christ as their Savior, teacher and laborer concerned with to see His face in the world’s poor, and to raise their voices the plight of the poor. for the justice of God’s kingdom.

A midlife Catholic convert, Dorothy I pray that her holiness may be recognized by your Church Day was a journalist who was and that you grant the following favor that I humbly ask through concerned with the poor and issues of her intercession: (mention your request) social justice. The included the Catholic I ask this through Christ our Lord. Worker newspaper, houses of hospitality, and a return to the land Amen. through a “green revolution.” 4 The Value of Vigilance in the Monastic Life This is the second article in a four-part series.

In the monastic It is no different for the monastic “good zeal which separates from evil life, different household. The novitiate introduces and leads to God and everlasting life” values are held newcomers to the values of monastic (RB 72.2). together in an life, and profession of vows binds interconnected them to a lifelong “school of the While the specific word vigilance itself web, and Lord’s service,” which forms the never appears in the Rule , the value of vigilance is one monks in the way of the Gospel. vigilance permeates it. It is not merely of those values. an idea, nor an ideal; vigilance is a Not all the The value of vigilance has a basis in value that informs the way monks live, Fr. Justin DuVall, OSB values have Jesus’ parable (Luke 12.35-38) about helping them to remain faithful to equal weight, of course, but vigilance the servants who await the master’s their vow of conversatio morum and to has its place within the entire return. Their mindfulness of his make sense of this beautiful, wounded network. Prayer, work, hospitality, future return is exactly what governs world in which they live. mutual obedience – all of these are their present actions. basic values that monastic life holds, Vigilance is the unsleeping third eye and vigilance works together with In this parable, the servants’ through which a monk mindfully them. intentional fulfillment of their duties, looks both within and without, in even as they await the return of the order to perceive the mystery of God Any value that we personally hold master, reinforces their identity in the in which the world lives and in which does two things. First, because we household. They know who they are, the monk lives in the world. believe it is important, it contributes as well as who they are not, and are to a sense of identity, both communal steady in their vigilance. Like any value, vigilance needs and individual, and so it helps us to concrete expression. In the next know who we are and those who The temptation to blow it all off or to article, I will look at a few ways by share our values. assume the role of the master and treat which the Rule embeds the value of their equals cruelly threatens the sense vigilance into the daily life of the Secondly, any value helps us to make of self-possession they have. It would monastery. sense of the world in which we live. It result in confusion and chaos in the is a key for uncovering meaning, both household. So for these servants, the Fr. Justin DuVall, OSB, monk for the everyday life we lead – our value of vigilance strengthens their Saint Meinrad Archabbey work, our family, our friendships – identity and helps them make sense of and for the larger complex society and the world in which they live. culture in which we live it. In the monastic household, vigilance Both identity and meaning flow from works the same way. Vigilance helps the values that a person holds. The monks avoid a slothful forgetfulness – same is true for vigilance as a value in the spiritual kind spoken about in the the monastic life. It helps monks to first article on vigilance – a know who they are and how to make forgetfulness both of who they have sense of the complex world in which vowed themselves to become, and of they live. the fraternal relationships of the monastic household that support their Values do not arrive by email; we efforts to remain faithful. learn them and choose them, both consciously and subconsciously, Through a constant remembrance of through our interactions with others God’s presence, even when it seems Find EPISODES AT and the world. This dynamic is at like He is absent, monks keep their work in every family household. hearts alive in the present with that www.saintmeinra d.edu/echoes

5 Reflections from the Wilderness: Footprints can tell our stories to others

Footprints. We all have them. They where we want to go, our footprints Worries and sorrows have a way of identify us like a signature. Just like convey a message about us. directing our paths. Walking with fingerprints, they are unique. They are humbleness can clear our pathway to a form of information that illustrates As we grow older, and hopefully see what promises lie ahead, giving our presence in life. On a dusty path wiser, our memories become our steps a fresh perspective. Being or muddy road, they leave traces of footprints. As we look ahead to the mindful of what we can control and us. They are emblems of the heaviness future, we often need to respond to giving our life over to the Lord for and weariness we may sometimes these memories and the promises they guidance can direct our walk. experience. held. We know we cannot change the past, but who does not hope for a Respect the value of compassion, Sometimes we see them on a lonely bright future? understand the power of grace, and path or road. When there are many use the blessing of mercy. Our footprints, it is often difficult to tell Sometimes we cannot plan for what footprints make a valuable imprint on what is happening or who is going life may throw at us. At those times, others. Choose wisely! May your steps where. We often don’t pay attention we must walk in faith. In any time of demonstrate who you are in ways that to footprints, but in truth, footprints sorrow, who has not wanted to walk benefit our world. As Jeremiah 10:23 can tell a story. with peace? says, “Lord, I know that a person does not control their own life. They don’t It is our story of life, of joys and At those times, clinging to God’s direct their own steps.” Now that is a sadness, of want and blessing, of grace and promises can comfort us. promise. future promises and lost dreams. Even When we are weak and weary, there is when others have no idea of what we nothing like mercy to ease our Ron Lewis, oblate have seen or where we have been or burdens. Putnamville, IN Mark 12:28-34 An invitation to love yourself

Have you ever made a mistake? Of Elsewhere in scripture we’re told that If I don’t have self-love, I can’t love course, we’re human, and humans the first shall be last and the last shall my neighbor or God. You can’t have mess up more than we would like to be first. I’m going to take that out of one without the other, and you can’t admit. When we make mistakes, we context and use it here. First, we are show love if you don’t know love. must move forward through told to love God. Then we are told to forgiveness. We know that God loves love our neighbor as we love Robert Branson, oblate us and forgives us, no matter the ourselves. What if we don’t really love Branchville, IN circumstances. ourselves? It is impossible to give away something you don’t have. The question here is: Do we forgive ourselves? I know I’m my own worst So we must first love our self, not Smugmug critic and I’m harder on myself than prideful or self-righteous love, but a anyone else ever could be. This comes joyful and caring love. This will For more photos of from not loving ourselves like we are reflect in love for our neighbor. And told in this Gospel. loving our neighbor is loving God, Saint Meinrad events, visit: since Christ dwells in all of us. http://saint-meinrad.smugmug.com

6 Considering the Psalms: Psalm 12 reminds us of God’s promises

I have spent the boasts, those who say, “With our you and to your offspring after you” last three tongues we will prevail; our lips Genesis 17:7). God’s promise remains months are our own – who is our master?” as true to us as it did to Abraham. preparing for and recovering “Because the poor are despoiled, We must be in solidarity with those from surgery. because the needy groan, I will who are being systematically Yesterday I now rise up,” says the Lord; “I victimized (Verse 5). Our place is with learned that I will place them in the safety for God and not with those who seek to have at least which they long.” do harm. Our protection is as a Kathleen Polansky another month . We profess our The promises of the Lord are of recovery ahead. In this time of security to be in God and God alone. promises that are pure, silver weakness, it has been difficult to take We are God’s servants; our lives are refined in a furnace on the on much reading material of any not our own. As baptized Christians, ground, purified seven times. substance, so I focused on the news we are sent into the world, but we do media. You, O Lord, will protect us; you not belong to the world. will guard us from this generation Children are still being separated from forever. As a lector trainer, I tell lectors that their parents and placed in detention God speaks, but we voice. We give centers. The Amazon is burning, as are On every side the wicked prowl, verbalization to the Word. In contrast parts of Africa and California. Another as vileness is exalted among to the psalm’s reference, our lips are hurricane of enormous proportion has humankind. not our own. Our service is to God, caused devastation to the Bahamas and not to those who seek to obfuscate us moved northward for more destruction While the beginning of the psalm in our calling. Today those who are of lives. There are bombings and seems only a repetition of the news able are reaching out to comfort, missiles being tested. media, the psalm goes on to remind donate, aid, protest and rebuild. That us of the Lord’s promises to protect us is the promise of God at work in our Several more mass shootings have and guard us. The promises of the world. It is faith engaging in these occurred with more deaths and Lord are pure and forever, and God times of pain and evil deeds. hospitalizations. Young immigrants sees not only the behavior of the who were invited to the United States wicked, but also the harm being done The promises of God bring forth a for life-saving medical treatment not to the least among us. Just as the reminder that, as believers, we are available in their home countries were speech of the wicked reveals their people of blessings. We are blessed given 33 days to leave, constituting a character, the Word of God reveals and we are to be a blessing to others. death sentence for each of them. God’s divine truth. We are people of the Beatitudes. The promises of God are manifest in ways That’s when I broke. I opened to This psalm cries out to us as much Psalm 12. ( NRSV ) that contradict our desire for today as it did to our ancient retaliation, retribution or revenge. The ancestors. Amid chaos, fear, hateful Help, O Lord, for there is no promises are a reality through the hyperbole and evil deeds, we are still longer anyone who is godly; the blessings Jesus taught in the encouraged by the psalmist to find faithful have disappeared from Beatitudes. hope and strength in God’s promises. humankind. “Blessed are the poor in spirit… They utter lies to each other; with The covenant God made with Blessed are those who mourn… flattering lips and a double heart Abraham is still a reality for us. (“I Blessed are the meek… Blessed are they speak. will establish my covenant between those who hunger and thirst for me and you, and your offspring after righteousness… Blessed are the May the Lord cut off all flattering you throughout their generations, for lips, the tongue that makes great an everlasting covenant, to be God to Continued on p. 11

7 The Busy Benedictine Recall that oblate promises are not vows-lite

The Busy Benedictine is an occasional column about trying to be like a monk when you’re working and taking care of kids.

When we Promises rise to the level of vows as monks is that monks open themselves became oblates, they are more solemn. What makes a to many corrections on the part of we made three promise solemn is the attitude of the their confreres. Every time the Rule promises: person making the promise, the says, “…shall be subjected to the stability of heart, content of the promise, and the nature punishment of the Rule ,” it reminds fidelity to the of the person receiving the promise. us of the depth of the monks’ spirit of the When I became an oblate, I took the commitment. Monks must agree to monastic life, promise as seriously as a vow. The correction, or they will be asked to and obedience promises themselves are weighty: They leave. Monks can get fired. Edward Castronova to the will of change how we live every day. God. These are promises, not vows. Oblates don’t receive correction when Vows are the professions that people And to whom are we making our they fail to live up to their promises. make when they become monks. promise? Is it the abbey, or St. Oblates can, if they wish, pretend the Monks make vows. Oblates make Benedict? Maybe it is to the oblate promises they made didn’t really promises. What’s the difference? director: “Dear Janis, I promise to do matter. However, by giving up on the X, Y and Z. Sincerely, Ted.” Is it to promises, an oblate becomes a mere Maybe a promise is like a vow-lite. An the monks? Or are we not promising shadow of the person they said they example would be the promise I make our Father in heaven that we will live were going to be. Monks can get fired to Nina not to let the dog sleep on her a new life, a life of stability, fidelity by the other monks, but oblates can pillow. She hates that. Whenever the and obedience? only fire themselves. dog goes to sleep there – she loves that pillow – an epic struggle ensues: two Oblate promises are not vows-lite. Edward (Ted) Castronova, oblate mammals, one pillow. Nina always The difference between oblates and Bloomington, IN wins, but we both enjoy the dog’s stubbornness and shameless favor- seeking.

Beagles are disobedient, but very cute, and often get away with things that would send other dogs to the pound. That dog is so darn cute I can’t resist setting up the fight, so I invite her onto the pillow when my wife is not looking, despite my promise. The struggle ensues and we both, Nina and I, get a good laugh.

Now consider the context. This particular promise is made as part of a comic situation. What if I made a promise to God almighty that that dog was not going to sleep on my wife’s pillow? That would be different. And what if the matter at hand were not canine sleeping patterns, but something as serious as life itself? David Freyer prays at the beginning of the oblation and investiture rites in September.

8 Finding Christ at the Border Volunteer helps deliver the promise of a better life

Recently, I met an extraordinarily When they reach the determined Catholic named border, it is often the Sister Norma Pimentel in the city of cartels that determine McAllen, Texas. Sister Norma is the whether they can approach executive director of Catholic the legal ports of entry. Charities of the Rio Grande Valley Others risk their lives by Humanitarian Respite Center and one crossing the Rio Grande. of the nation’s strongest champions of All are held in detention immigrants. Somewhat of a celebrity until it is determined if within social service circles, she has they will be allowed to been recognized by Francis for remain. If eligible, they her immigration work and featured on will be assigned a court all the major news outlets. date for an amnesty hearing and typically stay On arrival I was greeted by hundreds with families in the United of immigrants and a dozen volunteers. States. ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) was emptying the The level of gratitude detention centers over the next few expressed by the days, so there was a record number of immigrants for the most asylum seekers. I and other volunteers basic things we provided made sandwiches, assembled hygiene was humbling. Shoelaces, kits and confirmed bus tickets to cities soap and deodorant were across the country for folks to find met with heart-filled their families. appreciation. The broad grins were evidence of their relief to each of us. I was overwhelmed by I was overwhelmed by the sheer be welcomed in such a manner. They knowing that God loves these people numbers of people, all coming here came for the promise of a better, safer as much as he loves you and me. We with the hope of a promising future. life. We were their first experience of are all made in the image of God. Most children were under the age of that promise. 7. Many pregnant women appeared to We live in a country blessed with be no older than 15 or 16. Their At one point, I felt connected to these freedoms and a promising future for stories were of people escaping people in a way that I still struggle to its citizens. Our faith calls us to listen violence. Women were being raped or put into words. The simplest way to to the people who desire those same killed in Honduras because crimes describe what I felt was a unity that promises, but come from places that against women are not investigated. transcends color of skin, nation of starve them of this freedom. God calls Gangs and drug cartels ruled. origin, ethnicity or language. I saw us us to hear this promise and to see it in as I can only imagine God sees us: as the lives of those who struggle to live The stories are horrific. These people individuals joined in God. Separate, in that promise. As God’s promise of walk, hitchhike, ride buses thousands yet one – each of us loved and unified unconditional love is given to us, so of miles to reach the United States. under God. we are called to live that promise for The risks and hardship are incredible; each other. the danger is extreme. Women and I gained a deeper knowing that, if I children face abduction and failed to recognize anything less than Scott McKee, oblate trafficking along the way. Tears well our equality, I was denying that God Greens Forest, IN in the eyes of the men who tell of the is ultimately and infinitely truth, and difficulties they have endured. ultimately and infinitely present in

9 Meeting the Monks A visit with Fr. Pius Klein, OSB

Bonaventure, after consulting with the Archabbey Council, determined that young Br. Pius needed to wait at least a year.

The year passed swiftly, and in 1964, he was on his way to the Archabbey’s at Huaraz, 10,013 feet above sea level in north-central Peru. During his time in South America, he would serve in various ways, including school principal, English and religion teacher, and seminary disciplinarian. He also would see up close the desperate need for priestly ministry.

One day while out with the priory’s Fr. Pius Klein, OSB , Fr. Jamieson, a mother cradling a deathly ill baby in her arms A Single Step came to the Archabbey, he envisioned came running up to them, pleading himself joining the community as a with them to baptize her child. Fr. For Fr. Pius Klein, the journey toward monk – a brother. A year after Bede looked directly at Br. Pius. “You a lifelong promise of fidelity, not only graduating in 1957, he entered the take care of it,” he said. to the monastic way of life but to a novitiate. As is the tradition, for his certain community – Saint Meinrad first vows the next April, he submitted The only water Br. Pius could find Archabbey – began with a single step. three names to Archabbot was in their car’s radiator. Lowering a Bonaventure Knaebel (1955-1966) – handkerchief down into the reservoir, “In grade school, I thought of St. Pascal, St. Eugene and St. Pope he brought up the wet cloth, wrung it dedicating myself to religious life,” he Pius X. out over the baby, and completed the recalls. Finishing the eighth grade in baptism. The baby died soon after. 1953, Charles Klein wanted very From his first vows over 60 years ago, much to dedicate himself to the Lord the name Charles was no more. Pius Listening for God’s Call … and and had a Mass offered for his Klein was his new monastic name. “I Answering intention of discernment. Soon after, remember Dad being here for my first his priest, a Saint Meinrad It was the time of decision … and vows,” Fr. Pius says, “on the front alumnus, asked him, “Charles, what wrestling. Was God calling him to the steps of the [Archabbey] church. He are you doing next year?” priesthood now? “It was a one-year said, ‘Well, Charles, I really like your fight within [myself],” Fr. Pius recalls. [new] name.’ Mom said, ‘I don’t care. Charles shared his desire to give his You’ll always be Charles to me.’” Fr. life to God in monastic life. Soon a Fr. Bede’s words of wisdom echoed in Pius’ mother always called him by his letter was on its way to the Archabbey. his mind. “Pius, you’ve got the last given name despite his new religious Then Charles and his parents made a word on that,” he had said. If Br. Pius identity, he says. visit to Saint Meinrad. By the fall hadn’t gone to Peru, would he have semester of 1953, Charles had become heard the call? Scaling the Heights a full-time high school freshman in the minor seminary of Saint Meinrad. What was next for the newly minted “I was out one evening walking,” he brother? A time of service in Peru. He continues. “The moon was very Charles continued to seek God during would have left for Peru right after his bright. And I decided on that walk.” his high school years. When he first final vows, but Archabbot The decision: OK, God. 10 Fr. Bede’s response came swiftly. archabbot. Speaking by ham radio, the continued from p. 7 “Fine, we’ll take it from there,” Fr. archabbot asked Fr. Pius, “So, do you Pius recalls him saying. want to accept, over?” merciful… Blessed are the pure in heart… Blessed are the peacemakers… As is often the case, timing is “Yes, over.” Blessed are those who are persecuted everything. for righteousness’ sake… Blessed are “Fine, over.” you when people revile you and On May 31, 1970, at 3:23 p.m. local And so, with the confidence of his persecute you and utter all kinds of time, a 7.9-magnitude undersea community behind him, Fr. Pius evil against you falsely on my earthquake struck off the coast of assumed the helm of leadership for the account” (Mt. 5:3-11). Peru. The Great Peruvian Earthquake next six years. Then, in 1985, Fr. Pius killed an estimated 74,000, injured closed his of life in Peru and The world is gasping under the weight more than 143,000, and destroyed the returned to the Archabbey. He then of all that is happening. Through the homes of over one million people. served as chaplain to the Sisters of St. promises of God, the wicked that High up in the Andes, the quake Benedict at Monastery Immaculate prowl and the vileness that is being leveled the city of Huaraz. It also took Conception in Ferdinand and as exalted cannot last. We are called to the life of Br. Pius’ mentor, the director of food service at Saint take what is wrong and make it right; beloved Fr. Bede. Meinrad. to attest to the suffering of today and show mercy and compassion; to strive Miraculously, Br. Pius escaped injury Then, in 1987, he was assigned as for what is righteous and to stand in the quake. Soon after this pastor of St. Mary’s Parish in with those who mourn; to speak for devastation, he returned to the Huntingburg, where I first met him. I those who have no voice. Archabbey to begin his studies for the asked Fr. Pius how he has remained priesthood, culminating in his faithful to the promises made so long We are called to be peacemaker and ordination in 1974. ago. I wondered at how someone blessing. The promises of God lead to action. Those crying out are promised The Priest Returns begins a journey and remains true to it for a lifetime. God’s safety from this generation. In After his ordination, he returned to that promise, we find hope, healing Peru. Now Fr. Pius Klein, he became “Trust in God,” he says. “You have to and mission. pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish in look at the big picture…. I may not Lima. In 1978, he was elected . understand it, but I accept it.” Kathleen Polansky, oblate The priory community could elect its New Salisbury, IN own prior, he recalls, subject to Angie McDonald, oblate approval by the Saint Meinrad Huntingburg, IN

Br. John Mark Falkenhain, OSB, plays the cello Fr. Pius Klein, OSB, gives the sign of peace to Margaret Theis after the oblation and investiture rites on at the beginning of the oblation and investiture September 28. rites in September. 11 Advisory groups report on projects

The Saint Meinrad Archabbey Oblate Formation and Readings for Advent new check-out system is easy and Advisory Council and Oblate Finance and Lent : Novice Dennis Reyes, who allows for better tracking of titles. Committee met on October 18 and assists in the Oblate Office, has been 19, 2019. Following are some of the hard at work on formation pieces for Dorothy Day : The Benedictine highlights: the oblates, including readings with Oblates of Saint Meinrad have audio music during Advent. All recommitted to praying for the Saying Goodbye and Hello : We are writings were done by monks of Saint canonization of Dorothy Day. We are grateful to Al Kovacs, who has been a Meinrad. The Lenten booklet will asked to pray every first Thursday of blessing to the work of the Oblate include writings from oblates. Be on the month. If you are not doing this, Council the past 12 years. Al has the lookout for that soon. please accept this challenge. If you are decided to resign from his position already praying, thank you and please with the council to concentrate more Online Chapter : Slack is our online continue to do so. You can find intently on the formation of the chapter, which affords those not tied prayers specifically for this intention Indianapolis chapter, of which he is to a local chapter a place to share and online. the co-coordinator, and to spend time discuss their oblate journey. There are Upcoming Dates in 2020 : Retreat on the Hill with his wife and family. daily postings of the Rule as well as book discussions. Holly Vaughan is with Fr. Patrick Caveglia, OSB, March 20-22; Investitures and We are also thankful that Rick coordinator of the Slack Chapter. She – March 28, June 13, Tomsick has agreed to serve on the presented the forum to the Council. September 26, December 5; Oblate council. Rick hails from the Cleveland Her enthusiasm and energy for this Study Days with Fr. Thomas area. We will benefit from his spirited group of oblates are evident. Gricoski, OSB, June 8-11; Midwest wisdom and experience as an attorney. Alcuin Library Update : Mary and Woodlands Regional Meeting, Ann continue to work on organizing September 27-29. Finance Committee : At the close of and updating the resources and check- the fiscal year on June 30, 2019, out procedures for the library in the The Oblate Council will meet next on oblate expenses slightly exceeded the Oblate Office. All books are now April 25, 2020. N budget. The budget for fiscal year catalogued and in the database. The 2019-2020 has been finalized. Potential increases in spending could come from CD production, printing of new books, and the increase in the cost of printing and mailing the newsletter (now renamed Quarterly).

Novice News : We are blessed to have Br. Stanley Rother Wagner, OSB, as the novice mentor. He works diligently to oversee the formation of the novices. He has endeavored to individualize the experience to meet the needs of the novices. Br. Stanley is also creating an evaluation tool so novices can share their perspectives and thoughts on the formation process. This feedback will allow the Oblate Office to better assist the novices in their journey. Thirteen people become oblates during the September rites in the Archabbey Church. From left are David Freyer, Charles Thatcher, Pamela Washburn, Billy Joe Patterson, Margaret Theis, John Peter Radez, Abigail McFeely, Norbert Strobel, Rachel Bourneuf, Jim Clerc, Marilyn Clerc, Steve Anslinger and Laura Jean Flaherty.

12 The Oblate Toolbox Start with the tool of listening

Editor’s note: This issue marks the debut of a new column by oblate Angie McDonald of Huntingburg, IN, a member of the Jasper chapter. Inspired by Chapter 4 of the Rule of St. Benedict , her column will explore the various tools at our disposal in St. Benedict’s toolbox.

“These, then, are the tools of the spiritual craft … the workshop where we are to toil faithfully at all these tasks is the enclosure of the monastery and stability in the community.” – Rule of St. Benedict 4:75, 78

It is one thing to We squirm in the silence. Our cell The promise made at our final promise phones interrupt us with incessant oblation is our pledge to allow God to something; it is notifications. We find it hard to focus enter and inhabit our busy lives. As quite another to on what God is saying through the we take the time to listen, we will live keep that Scriptures. And our to-do list looms out our promise of obedience as we promise. How larger in our minds than the presence hear and respond to what the Holy are we all doing of God in the Eucharist. Spirit is speaking to our hearts. with keeping our oblate promises? To really listen, we must get quiet. As we pick up and use the tool of Angie McDonald Let us review To get quiet, we must set aside our listening, we will be able to seek first these three things: obedience, stability distractions. As we cultivate quiet, we the kingdom of God and his of heart, and fidelity to the monastic begin to pay attention to the inner righteousness. A listening heart is an way of life. voice that comes to us through the obedient heart. psalms and prayers of Lauds, Vespers After testing the waters for a year as and Compline. Angie McDonald, oblate an oblate novice, I took the plunge Huntingburg, IN with my final oblation in the Archabbey Church. My husband and daughter attended, as did two members from the Jasper Chapter. I had undertaken a new way of spiritual growth, a way all of us have chosen as oblates.

As we run the way of God’s commands, Benedict’s Rule is like the GPS in your Garmin: Go this way. And if you get off the path, a voice speaks: “Recalculating.”

The first tool in the Rule toolbox is listening. Many of the conferences and presentations by the monks have focused on obedience, which is joined at the hip to the skill of listening. In this day of nonstop electronic noise and stimulation, however, listening in Charles Thatcher signs his vow chart in front of Archabbot Kurt Stasiak, OSB, during the oblation rites the quiet can seem to be an in September. impossible goal.

13 Oblate News

New Oblate Chapter Commissioned Donate to Saint Meinrad by O BLATIONS A new oblate chapter in Columbus, shopping Amazon September 28, 2019 – Steve Anslinger, IN, was commissioned on September Are you aware that Amazon will Loveland, OH; Rachel Bourneuf, St. 12, 2019, at St. Bartholomew Church donate to Saint Meinrad for every Louis, MO; Jim Clerc and Marilyn by Br. Zachary Wilberding, OSB. item you purchase? It is easy and does Clerc, Columbus, IN; Laura Flaherty, Attending were Fr. Clem Davis, not change the cost of your purchase. Orland Park, IL; David Freyer, oblates and novices from Columbus, Simply go to smile.amazon.com from Pasadena, CA; Abigail McFeely, and guests from Bloomington, your web browser. Connersville, IN; Billy Patterson Jr., Greensburg and Plainfield. Pittsboro, IN; John Peter Radez, On your first visit to “AmazonSmile,” Evansville, IN; Norbert Strobel, The chapter has 11 oblates and three select “Saint Meinrad Archabbey” Coldwater, MI; Charles Thatcher, novices. Elaine Zimmer and John from the list of charitable Winter Springs, FL; Margaret Theis, Brooks are the chapter coordinators; organizations to receive donations Homer Glen, IL; Pamela Washburn, they have been oblates for six years from eligible purchases before Mishawaka, IN. N and one year, respectively. The oblates shopping. Amazon will remember and novices previously were associated your selection of Saint Meinrad, and INVESTITURES with the Bloomington chapter. every eligible purchase will result in a donation sent to Saint Meinrad. September 28, 2019 – Amy Balcam, The chapter is grateful to the parent Bloomington, IN; Micah Beck and chapter for supporting the spiritual From then on, every time you log into Sonia Keepes, Mt. Carmel, IL; Tilde needs of its oblates and novices until Amazon, do so from Bricker, Madeline Couch, Sandra now. The Columbus oblates have smile.amazon.com and you will Long and Bette Niedblaski, been meeting for about a year for automatically be making a donation. Columbus, OH; Judy Campbell, Vespers and reflections monthly under If you already have an account with Champaign, IL; Karen Dwyer, South the leadership of Elaine Zimmer. Amazon, that will remain the same. Bend, IN; Jacquelyn Edwards, Plans are to hold chapter meetings on Versailles, KY; Craig Galbraith, Kure the second Thursday of the month at Beach, NC; Richard Getch, Carmel, St. Bartholomew Parish. IN; Debra Hansen, Worthington, OH; Daniel Lear, St. Charles, MO; Valerie Morgan, Charlotte, NC; Allen Raver, Anderson, IN; John Shawler, Hurricane, WV; Steven Smith, Cincinnati, OH; Beverly Weinhold, Louisville, KY. N

DEATHS Dr. Maurice Keller of Evansville, IN – August 23, 2019 Mary Frances Elbert of Boise, ID – September 30, 2018 Fr. Robert Goodrum of Monticello, IN – June 10, 2019 Cyrilla Schatz of St. Meinrad, IN – September 10, 2019 Mary Ann Fortkamp of Kettering, OH – May 28, 2019 Members of the newly commissioned oblate chapter in Columbus, IN, gather for a photo. Carolyn “Kay” Etienne of Evansville, IN – January 28, 2018

14 Oblate News

William S. Fabianic of Orlando, FL – September 27, 2019 We want you and your articles! Mary Jo Mellody of Copley, OH – December 9, 2019 The Benedictine Oblate is looking for news and happenings about you or your oblate chapter. Whether or not you are connected to a chapter, you are Mary M. Northerner of Cannelton, connected to Saint Meinrad and we want to hear what’s going on with you. IN – December 10, 2019 N You are invited to submit news and information about your chapter, write an ANNIVERSARIES article about your Benedictine journey, submit a book review for the Reading Room column, or send in photos of you or your chapter engaged in oblate 25th: Remedios Anne Cabanilla of activities. New York, NY; Mary E. Gallagher of Shelbyville, IN; Helen Kite of All submissions must include your name, city and state, and an explanation of Indianapolis, IN how it connects to the theme. Submissions will be edited to fit the theme or need of the quarterly. A 500-word or less limit is suggested for all submitted 60th: John Busam of Huron, OH; articles. Please send all submissions to Kathleen Polansky at Joyce Greenwood of Tell City, IN; [email protected]. Angelo Musone of Lady Lake, FL 70th: Elizabeth Wollenmann of Upcoming themes and submission dates: Ferdinand, IN N Spring 2020 – Stability (February 1 deadline) UPCOMING EVENTS Summer 2020 – Fidelity (May 1 deadline) Fall 2020 – Obedience (August 1 deadline) March 20-22, 2020: Oblate Retreat at Saint Meinrad, Presenter: Fr. Patrick Caveglia, OSB March 28, 2020: Investitures and Oblations June 8-11, 2020: Oblate Study Days

VOLUNTEERS APPRECIATED Recent volunteers in the Oblate Office were Br. Stanley Rother Wagner, OSB, Ann Smith, Mary Campanelli, Fr. Mateo Zamora, OSB, Novice Dennis Reyes, OSB, Candidate Simon Holden, Becky Boyle, Marie Kobos, Michelle Blalock, Ron DeMarco, Al Kovacs, Jennie Latta, Maureen and Paul Reichardt, George Thompson, Rick Tomsick, Chris Topa, Holly Vaughan and Bill Wilson. N

Top photo - Br. Zachary Wilberding, OSB, installs Shirley Galey as the Co-coordinator of the Tell City Chapter. Bottom photo - Oblate Fran Brown, a member of the council for St. Elizabeth in New Albany, IN, works with two seminarians, left, Wojtek Sobczuk, and right, Oscar Romero, who do pastoral ministry at St. Elizabeth, a residential home for women in crisis pregnancy or escaping domestic violence. 15 Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE QUARTERLY PAID Permit #3 St. Meinrad, IN 200 Hill Drive St. Meinrad, IN 47577

Reading Room

How We Love: A Formation for the Celibate Life by John Adhering to celibacy can be uppermost in the minds of Mark Falkenhain, OSB. The Liturgical Press, 2019. young adults who are discerning priesthood or the religious life. Br. John Mark presents his findings to answer this Br. John Mark Falkenhain, OSB, is fundamental challenge. a monk of Saint Meinrad Archabbey and a licensed clinical This book represents years of Br. John Mark’s work as a psychologist. He is well qualified to clinical psychologist, teacher, lecturer and monk. This book write a useful and thorough will serve as a valuable resource to formation directors and program for celibacy formation for the seminarians they form. It will provide valuable insights men and women. He has for vocation and formation directors in the assessment of experience in research, writing and candidates to the religious life. teaching in the area of celibacy formation for priests and religious. It will help oblates who want to understand how to live a life of celibacy with integrity. The topic of sexual The book has four major content areas: motives for chaste abuse he presents can serve to foster understanding by those celibacy, theological aspects of celibacy chastity, sexual living in the secular world. It can be a valuable tool in identity, and skills for celibate living. This is a timely book workshops, seminars and discussion groups far beyond the for the Church in troubled times. Br. John Mark has the borders of monasteries and seminaries. experience and literary courage to apply his knowledge so the layperson can understand the various aspects of Thomas J. Rillo, oblate celibacy for those contemplating the religious life. Bloomington, IN