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THE COMMUNITY OF FRANCIS OF

PARISH HISTORY THE FIRST 30 YEARS

11401 LEESVILLE ROAD, RALEIGH, NC 27613

PREFACE IN THE VERY A Work in Progress: BEGINNING…

The First Thirty Years of St. Roman Catholic of Raleigh, North Carolina “Lord, what do you

I’ve been chatting with the folks who founded St. Francis want of me?” of Assisi Roman in Raleigh. They started 30 years ago. And the old painted Way back then, the first pastor asked me to write a little in the San summary of how the got started. Jump 30 years to today and the current pastor has asked me to continue Damiano church the story. spoke. “Francis,” the

So here I am, talking with the clergy and the parishioners Lord said, “rebuild who made it all happen, recording the history, starting my church. It is falling from the very beginning, and doing my best to retell our parish stories. down.”

Think of this 30-year historical compilation as a work in For a short while, progress. I have done my best to record the many parish- ioners’ memories that surfaced. In many ways it is more Francis wandered. But complete than I anticipated and in other ways it is less. no place held his heart

I hope this narrative will tickle your minds and bubble up like Assisi. So he more memories for the compilation of future publications. headed back to the

The narrative that follows picks up where the first story left town of his birth and off and leaves off where the rest of the story – our future set out to rebuild the history – begins. church of San Damiano. But how Donna (Foglia) Sink would he buy stones and mortar and tools? What could he do? He knew how to sing. He would sing for stones. The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 11401 Leesville Road Raleigh, NC 27613 919-847-8205 www.stfrancisraleigh.org

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 3 Parish History 1982-2012 Ready to build a church. Founding pastor, Fr. Jim English, S.J., stands on land that will become the home of our faith community.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 4 Parish History 1982-2012 The Early Years, 1978-1986 ight hundred years after choir practice, Catholic Youth Organi- are we going to get a church?’’ The Francis heard God’s call zation (CYO) and Senior Citizen parishioners made a memorable to rebuild his church, a meetings, the miles added up. They impact on the bishop that evening. people called upon their grew weary of the heavy commuting. Yvonne notes of the following years, E bishop to build a new When rumblings of St. ’s “Any time the bishop saw either Hank parish. expansion began, many northwest or me, he would smile and say, Raleigh parishioners couldn’t resist ‘Any more vigilante meetings?’” And that’s exactly what happened. thinking that what the diocese really Bishop Gossman called upon In August 1978, when Father Lewis’ needed was a church in their area. the Maryland province of the Society of six-year term as the Chancellor of the and asked a Jesuit priest to con- Yvonne Foglia and MaryLou Bender, Diocese of Raleigh ended, Bishop sider becoming the founding pastor of the 1977-78 hosts of the annual St. Gossman appointed him Pastor of St. a Roman Catholic Church located in a Raphael’s Women’s Guild potluck Raphael Church with the assignment small suburb of Raleigh called Lees- supper, had a novel idea. “Why don’t to study the western area of the parish ville. This Jesuit, Father James Eng- we invite the bishop to come and talk and to start a new parish out there. lish, made several trips to North Caro- And that was exactly what happened. lina to meet with St. Raphael’s pastor, The search for began, but it Father Gerald Lewis, and with the “One of our proved difficult. bishop. He also toured North Carolina, “One of our problems back in those driving from the Appalachian Moun- problems back days,” Monsignor Lewis recalls, “was tains to the eastern coast of North that people did not want to sell to Carolina, and then returned to Boston. in those days Catholics. There was a lot of property Father English contemplated, made was that around but not much that was avail- his decision, flew back to Raleigh, and able to us. John Norkus from Our Lady in February 1982 said to Father Lewis, people did not of Lourdes Church, a part-time real “Jerry, I’m your man!” Father Lewis estate agent, found this property on announced to his parishioners that his want to sell Leesville Road. It was only eight acres, search had ended. but it was all we could find.”

Reminiscing about those days, now- to Catholics.” This property, it turned out, was Monsignor Lewis told an audience of technically in the parish boundaries Monsignor Gerald Lewis St. Francis of Assisi’s more seasoned of , Leesville parishioners, “Those were very excit- Road being the dividing line. So, ing days. Soon after he became about building the church in northwest according to the Mother Parish Policy bishop of Raleigh, Bishop Joseph Raleigh?” Yvonne said to MaryLou. of the diocese, Our Lady of Lourdes Gossman was invited out here to And they did. About forty or fifty folks paid for the land, about $50,000. Springdale to a meeting of people who came that night. “Having the property, we needed to lived in this area. They met at Yvonne “A lot of curiosity-seekers, that’s what start a community but we were not and Henry Foglia’s house, and they it was,” MaryLou says. “They wanted ready to do that yet without a place weren’t gathering just to say ‘hello’ to to see what was going to happen. to have mass,” Monsignor Lewis says. the bishop. They were petitioning When we got through eating, we went Their next step was to find temporary Bishop Gossman to start a parish out into the family room. We had people worship space for the portion of the here.” The audience chuckled; many sitting on the floor and everything. We parish living in the area of the new recalled the auspicious beginnings of sat the bishop in front of the fireplace.” parish. This, too, would prove difficult. St. Francis of Assisi Church and the Yvonne nods. “He was the main man. According to Monsignor Lewis, there very meeting that put St. Francis on Father Lewis and another priest were was no school building near the area the map. Most of St. Francis of Assisi’s there, too. We started asking the that would become the new parish. early founders had been members of bishop questions.” They did find a closed greenhouse St. Raphael’s parish. Living in the and nursery, but Our Lady of Leesville community required them to “Everybody got settled in, and then Lourdes’s pastor objected. The drive long distances for any church there was this silence,” MaryLou re- search continued for usable facilities, function. From mass to faith formation, calls. “Henry said, ‘Okay, bishop, when but they could find none.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 5 Parish History 1982-2012 The closest public school to the On April 8, 1982, Father English And that was it.” proposed parish was Lynn Road officially arrived in Raleigh. He tempo- The ladies of the parish would have Elementary School. Even though this rarily resided in St. Raphael’s rectory. none of that. Dottie Fuller suggested school lay within the boundaries of St. “Now,” Monsignor Lewis says, “what they throw him a Rectory Shower so Raphael’s, they asked for the use of its does a pastor do with a new priest who they could furnish his house. A lot of cafeteria. They were turned down. wants to start a new parish during Holy people showed up for the party in the Week?” “In Wake County, each principal living room of the little brown house. decides whether or not people can use With access to a house at the beach, Father English unwrapped boxes of the school,” Monsignor Lewis explains. Father Lewis gave Father English the dishcloths and dinnerware, kitchen “When I relayed all of this to the Dioce- keys to the house, gave him his car, utensils and bath mats. san Building and Real Estate Commis- and said, “You go to the beach and “I didn’t know any of the geography,” sion, Jim Kaus, a member of the come back next week.” he recalls. “I got lost every time I drove commission and a potential member of Upon his return, a realtor took Father more than a mile. There was nothing the new parish, offered to speak to the English around to look at . there, all trees.” He was completely out principal of the school. So, actually, They looked at many new, big houses, there by himself. “What was quite clear through Jim Kaus, who had some but Father English found the perfect to me,” he says, “was that I did not connections at Lynn Road School, the little brown house right across the know how to build a parish. I didn’t principal reversed his decision and let street from the new parish’s property. know, and therefore, I had to find the us meet there. And we began mass at people with the right talents. I had to Lynn Road School. “...this building of find them and they found me and we “I had the first mass and Father Jerry put together people who, by the time it Sherba had some, but I got Father a parish. I’ve never was over, knew how to build a parish.” Donald Staib, who was Chancellor, done it, and I That was how it began. to come out most of the time,” says “The first time we gathered at the Monsignor Lewis. don’t know that public school for our first mass,” They were trying to build a community anyone over here Father English says, “I seem to recall so that when they got a pastor for the has ever done it saying to myself, this is going to be new parish, the community would be before, but we’re something, this building of a parish. well underway, and, at the very least, I’ve never done it, and I don’t know have a nucleus of a parish for the first going to do it.” that anyone over here has ever done pastor to work with. Proposed parish it before, but we’re going to do it.” lines were drawn: Durham County on Fr. Jim English, S.J., Founding Pastor He told people he’d like to meet with the west, The Neuse River on the them. “I said, therefore, every day next north, Creedmoor Road on the east, week in my little rented house, we’re and Glenwood Avenue (Highway 70) going to have a meeting. Everyone is on the south. He says, “Father Lewis knew the invited to every single one of the meet- young couple in the house and knew Now that the property was purchased ings, but I’m going to name the meet- they were going to move elsewhere. and a community was starting to form, ings so that if there is something that Therefore, that house was about to the diocese began the search for the you are really interested in, you will become available right across the pastor. When Father English accepted attend that meeting. “And people came street. Really, it was a . I could- the as founding pastor of the new every night that week and into the next n’t believe it myself. So, St. Raphael parish in northwest Raleigh, he had no week. And we would sit on the floor— Church paid the rent and I moved in. It clue what he would find or what could they found out the house was empty. was easy. I had only my suitcase with be accomplished. “I had never started I had my hardcover , and I would me; I didn’t have anything else but an up a parish before,” he says. “I didn’t pass them around, and the people empty house. know what the first, second, or third would give me their names and phone step should be.” “The people found out that I didn’t numbers. “It worked,” he says. “People have any furniture—I mean, I didn’t liked it, and they came. And some of When Father English talked with have a chair, I didn’t have a spoon or a the people who came to those meet- Bishop Gossman about this new pot, I didn’t have anything. I didn’t ings were still involved with what they parish, he asked him, “Where would have a towel. I didn’t have anything in had signed up for by the time I left I begin?” Bishop Gossman replied, the house.” Father English chuckles as St. Francis. They were still working at “Come on down and find out.” he recalls those early days. “I had my it. It was marvelous.” little Volkswagen out the front door.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 6 Parish History 1982-2012 Father English describes the total prisoners to their children was just plans. They started with an inflatable experience of founding the parish as simply unheard of. But the response building, tossed around ideas of a a gift. “What a gift they gave me in was overwhelming. The prisoners metal, pre-fab structure, contemplated allowing this Jesuit to come here and gratefully welcomed the opportunity renting the uninhabited Springdale do this thing. Watching the people to give presents to their grocery store, and finally pursued the form community has been dazzling,” youngsters. design and construction of a New he says of the parishioners. “They are England pole and beam style building. In addition to the various committees’ so good, so concerned. They love God work, contributions of many others “There are three reasons I chose the and want to know Him.” Out of those enriched the experience of establish- barn,” says Father English. “The first meetings came many committees, and ing the new parish. And we can’t was because when I became a Jesuit, eventually ministries still in existence bypass the Christmas of 1982 without I moved to the countryside, not far today. The following committees were a word about the wonderful “living from where I am right now in Philadel- formed: crèche”. Angels from above were our phia, this gorgeous Amish country Parish Building Committee toddlers, pre-schoolers and grammar in Pennsylvania. I was a city boy, so Parish Finance Committee schoolers. Our shepherds were our living in the country with the Jesuits Education Committee Goldenagers and our townspeople was a brand new experience.

Social Concerns Committee were all those in their prime! Father “While doing that, I read Thomas Mer- Committee English found the perfect couple to ton’s , Seven Storey Mountain. In Pastor’s Advisory Committee that book, he talks about joining the The Education committee quickly . He was a very artistic per- recognized the need to form faith “... I thought he son himself. He said that all the build- formation programs. After several was out of his ings out where he had joined the Cis- meetings, Marylyn Kaus was chosen tercians were ugly. And, [Merton] said to “volunteer” to lead the program. mind. But he said the reason they are all ugly is because She took over with gusto. Over 200 the barns are everybody tried to make them look like students and 35 volunteer teachers beautiful because 12th Century or churches participated. They filled the rectory, or buildings. But we can’t do that any- several private homes, and the they are built to more; it’s not the 12th or 13th Century. facilities of the neighboring Leesville do what barns He said the only beautiful things we Baptist Church. have on our property – and we have are meant to do.” a large property – are the barns. The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) soon formed and clamored “Now, as a city boy, I thought he was Fr. English on design of sanctuary. success. Larry LeNoir from the dioce- out of his mind. But he said the barns san office gathered parish teens in the are beautiful because they are built to rectory living room. Before long, a St. do what barns are meant to do, and Francis of Assisi CYO was created play the roles of Mary and Joseph nobody is worried about making them with Larry and Pam Heyl at the helm. and the infant Jesus. The Perillos look like this, that, or the other thing. had given birth to their second child And, as a result, they become simple The Parish Social Concerns Commit- only days before Christmas Eve. and strong, and they look beautiful. tee organized their efforts and visited Great timing. the Madonna House in downtown “I took it upon myself in Pennsylvania Raleigh on June 19, 1982. This house As the plans for the building were to go into every single barn I saw. And offers shelter to local, poor families; being finalized, fundraising efforts I began to just look at them. This was it was a house in physical and financial commenced. St. Francis did it with a when I was very young, long before I jeopardy. Then the committee song; we did it with John and Pegeen ever came to North Carolina. I was 17 performed another wonderful task. Griessmayer. Chris and Ronnie Offen, or 18. And, I had suddenly realized, he It provided the prisoners of the Wake Jo and Jerry Finnen, and Mary and was right. Barns are national treas- Advancement Center with Christmas Paul Dunphy assisted. Teams of ures. They are so beautiful and their gifts for their children. Gifts are fre- visitors were welcomed enthusiasti- construction is so wonderful. So that quently given to a prisoner, but seldom cally by the parish membership and was one thing that was in my mind.

(if at all) does the prisoner have the their goal of $200,000 was surpassed. “The second thing was that long before opportunity to give presents to his or Plans for the building had begun much either of us ever knew anything about her family. In fact, the warden listened earlier, though. On March 7, 1982, North Carolina, I went on a retreat with to the committee’s plan but was skepti- a meeting was held in St. Raphael’s Bob Hudak (a Franciscan of Holy cal about its success; gift giving by the parish center to discuss the building Name Province) along with a group of The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 7 Parish History 1982-2012 The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 8 Parish History 1982-2012 The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 9 Parish History 1982-2012 . These monks had bought a Within two days, the Building Team instead he talked to St. Francis, say- farm to begin their . And had unanimously agreed on the pole ing, “St. Francis of Assisi, you know they took the barn on this farm and and beam style. Shortly thereafter, I’m searching for a name for our turned it into their place of worship. Father English met with architect church, and I would like to announce Bob Hudak and I went to mass there, Ralph Reeves and builder E. I. Clancy. our parish name during the outdoor and I was struck by how beautiful the At 11 o’clock a.m. on Thursday, April mass. So I’m putting you in charge were and how beautiful the 22, 1982, Hans Van Welzen and a of the weather, and if it rains, I will barn was that they were in. They could group of friends – axes and power recommend the parish be named swing the doors open, and you could saws in hands – cleared the woods. after St. .” look down into the trees and the mead- Preparations for the first mass in the The mass took place on a beautiful, ows… it was simply heavenly. I had Leesville woods were underway. sunny Carolina day. Father English barns on my mind.” Father English gave careful thought to recommended the church be called By the time Father English got to North Carolina, he thought, “I’m not going to build a big fancy church that will cost a fortune.” He adds, “I went down to visit North Carolina. We went out there, right next to tobacco fields. I had never seen tobacco before—I thought it was corn! And then I thought, we should build a barn church; that is what we need down here - a big, beautiful, glorious barn.”

The third reason Father English leaned toward the pole and beam design had to do with the company he would engage to design the building. “I had friends up here in Washington who had people in the horse raising business, and they told me about this Original Sanctuary – Main Entrance barn-building company. So, I went with circular drive up to New England and met this company. I stayed overnight and they showed me their barns and what they had built. Then I sat with them and I drew up how I thought this church should be shaped,” he says. “I made it very simple.

“Then I went down to North Carolina, and within a week I had a model of the barn sent to me in the mail. I got together everybody who was inter- ested. I showed them the barn and Worship Aid – explained what I thought would be Consecration & Dedication good about it. “One of the things I said was this: if this parish keeps getting bigger and bigger and bigger, the barn the name of our parish—he narrowed St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic is immensely flexible. You can convert the possibilities down to two and Church, and his suggestion was a barn into many, many functions. Our decided to let the saints choose. received with a resounding applause. function will be a church and a ; Bishop Gossman officially erected The building crew diligently set about it will be beautiful in that way, but it will St. Francis of Assisi as a parish on construction, and on April 3, 1983, also be beautiful in all sorts of other April 25, 1982. we were able to celebrate Easter in ways if something larger has to hap- our half-built church—what a glorious Father English never set a rain date for pen at some point. That happened,” morning! this special mass. According to legend, says Father English.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 10 Parish History 1982-2012 By June 11, 1983, St. Francis of Assisi Father English’s scavenger hunts, Boston. I want to rent a car, drive right Roman Catholic Church was finished. which led to the following acquisitions down the coast, and I want to go to We are grateful to many whose contri- for the original church: every house that we are closing. They butions helped make the construction are great big houses with beautiful The from a of the parish possible. We thank things in them. And if I know us, we’ll chapel in Boston, hand-carved Holy George and Marie Doty of Rye, New just walk out with them. I want to go Family statue and white marble statue York for their generous gift of get them.’” of St. Ignatius from a Jesuit $100,000 for the construction of the in Massachusetts and innumerable They did. Father English and Steve rectory; Nancy Dickerson, Mary gifts from Father James McAghon of Hedrick went up to Boston and began Connelly, and Father English’s friends the Passionist Monastery. a slow drive southward. They stopped in Washington, D.C., who supported all along the east coast at every Jesuit the “Road Building Party” which made Father English had become good house that Father English knew about. possible our parking lot and driveways; friends at the racquetball club with a “By the time we got home, the garage of that little rented house on Leesville and part of the first floor was just sim- ply packed with beautiful, beautiful things.”

Starting a new parish would take more than just stocking the building, though, and St. Raphael made significant contributions that helped launch the new parish. “St. Raphael didn’t just push all the new parishioners off as a nucleus and say ‘bye-bye’,” Monsignor Lewis explains. Through a real cooperative measure, St. Raphael Church directly contributed to the success of the new parish.

A little help from our brothers and sisters – Contributions to our new faith community from St. Raphael the Parish.

• Donating $125,000 to get the new parish started • Paying rent in Father English’s house for one full year • Transferring to the new parish all Painting of St. Francis of Assisi in original sanctuary, painted by unpaid pledges made to the St. parishioners. Everyone wanted to be a part of building our new church. Raphael Parish Center • Making the St. Raphael office and staff available to Father English for one year • Giving the new parish all of the supplies used at Lynn Road School George Bastianello for the hand- non-Catholic, Steve Hedrick. Steve • Continuing for a year to educate constructed altar, ambo, presider’s Hedrick would become a major figure the new parish’s children through bench, beveled glass cross and candle in all of this scavenging. “What I did the religious education program stands; and Lee Webster for the hand- was this: I said to my good friend, • Continuing for three years to ac- made and stand, Steve, that the Jesuits were closing all cept the new parish’s children for the statues of the and these houses. The vocation crisis was the Early Childhood Center at the the breathtaking grandfather clock. coming down from Boston, all the way same in-parish tuition rate as St. And we are especially thankful for down here. I said, ‘I want to go up to Raphael children.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 11 Parish History 1982-2012 “So when you talk about this little Father English had grown up in a ness office and pastor’s office, a small handful of people,” Monsignor Lewis parish in Philadelphia that was meeting room, and the rectory. The says, “remember there was a lot of strapped by a debt left by its founders. two buildings were separated by a help there, too. It was a real partner- For the following 25 years those lovely courtyard. Because these build- ship.” The northwest Raleigh people parishioners were paying off that debt. ings had very limited space for meet- were terribly excited about starting ings, the courtyard, the meeting room, “So I didn’t want to leave a debt,” he their own new parish. And there was and the sanctuary were hotbeds of says. “That is why the Finance Com- tremendous cooperation. “Father Eng- early social and spiritual gatherings. mittee was so important. They worked lish got them really inspired and got Faith Formation sessions, CPR so hard, and we paid the whole thing the cooperation of all of the parishion- classes, Rite of Christian Initiation of off. Before I left, a good time before I ers,” Monsignor says. “By the end of Adults, and all sorts of other groups left, we had a ‘Burn the Mortgage’ the year Father English arrived and the used the confined areas to their fullest. party. We burned the mortgage and parish was established, the new parish had a great big outdoor picnic on the Parishioner Marylyn Kaus remembers was twice as big as we had projected. lawn.” In fact, at that party Father Eng- early days that included Faith Forma- The new parish had a good foundation lish announced, “If you are new to the tion classes being held, at first, in from what St. Raphael had provided. parish and made a pledge, understand homes, then in the basement of Lees- You had a tremendously strong foun- that we have paid all of our bills and ville Road Baptist Church, and later dation in the people who were the you may decide not to continue paying scattered in every corner and closet nucleus of the new parish. And you (literally) of the original church. She had a really fine, dynamic, energetic, also recalls the parish renting space at and visionary priest leading you at the Creedmoor Road Baptist Church and time. So, God blessed you very much. North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene. I was glad to have been a part of it.” “Weren’t we blessed to be so wel- The original church seated up to 400 comed by other faiths,” Marylyn says, and was dedicated on 9, “especially considering that Catholics 1983. “The church looked absolutely at the time were less than two percent beautiful, our little church did,” says of the North Carolina population. What Father English of the dedication. “It a wonderfully ecumenical base for was exactly what we wanted it to be, building our own faith community.” a simple country church.”

Bishop Gossman was the celebrant of the mass. Father English gave a short homily. In his few sentences, he told Beveled glass cross made by parishioner what he, the parishioners, and the George Bastianello. The frame was made diocese had tried to accomplish. with wood from the original pews in “I said that it seems every Jesuit at Heart Cathedral, Raleigh. some point in his lifetime is supposed to write a book. I said, ‘I am a Jesuit your pledge. However, if you are able and I have not yet written a book, but to continue paying the pledge you I think perhaps now I am ready to write made, we have a special fund forming one. Perhaps I will do it right here, to- and that special fund will be for what day,’” Father English recalls. “The title we need next: an education facility for our children.” of the book is How to Found a Parish.

“The first thing you need to do is Not only did people continue paying arrive. The second thing you do is find their pledge, new pledges came in a people, a wonderful people who from people who had finished paying want to worship God, who want to care their pledges. And that was how it for their children and give them the went. “Just find a people,” Father English had said. faith, who live in terms of other people, not in terms of themselves. And, I said, St. Francis of Assisi started out with bring them together and the rest is a two buildings; one was the sanctuary piece of cake.” and the other consisted of the busi-

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 12 Parish History 1982-2012

Our first parish photo directory, 1985. Were you here?

Directory welcome by Fr. Jim English, Pastor

Photos of Fr. Jim English and Fr. Gerry Lewis with parishioners.

Our first celebration of First as a Parish, in borrowed space before the sanctuary was complete.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 13 Parish History 1982-2012 The courtyard outside the church was the hub of early social life at St. Francis of Assisi.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 14 Parish History 1982-2012 The Middle Years, 1987-1997 ith the departure “I remember calling this meeting,” aware of St. Francis,” says Father Bill. of Father English Father says. “I said that “But I never in a million years thought in the winter of anybody who would be interested in I'd be stationed here.” 1987, Bishop working in the South, we're going to be W Also remembering his first visit to the Gossman named meeting in our headquarters. About 20 little parish in the South, Father Mark Father Jeffrey Ingham to serve as ad- came. Of course, in those days, G. Reamer, O.F.M., recalls, “It wasn’t ministrator. Parishioners knew a new we numbered a lot more than we do until Dan Kenna came here that I pastor would soon be assigned. Their now. But at one of those meetings, visited the parish for the first time. hope was that Father Bob Hudak, a one of the men who came was Dan It was so isolated. The Franciscan friend of Father English, Kenna. His family was in Charlotte and didn’t have a parish in Durham then, might be chosen for the position. he was more interested in us taking a so, to us, it was just a place outside of parish that was available in Charlotte.” “Father English had invited Father Bob Washington, D.C. There was a parish to participate in the life of the parish, Catholics were so few in the South in Virginia and the next closest one and I think it was at that point that Bob that the Franciscans referred to was in South Carolina.” began to touch the lives of the people serving in the Southeast as the “One of the things that is important to through his great presence,” says “southern missions”. know is the perception of the Francis- Father David McBriar, O.F.M., who cans toward the South,” explains Fa- was eventually assigned as first ther Bill. “The Franciscans came to the Franciscan pastor. South to work in African-American mis- The Parish Council, including Murray sions. We had a whole string of men Gould and Chris Judy, investigated who came down to work in the African- the possibility of having Father Bob American community after the Second assigned to St. Francis of Assisi. Once World War. So, our heritage outside of again, our parishioners ventured into Atlanta was African-American ministry. territory not usually entered by the Then in the 1950s or 60s, the bishop, . On their own initiative, Murray Fr. David asked the friars to leave, so we left.” and his small party traveled to Holy That was part of the early history of the Name Province in New York City, the Franciscans being in North Carolina, central administration for the Francis- which had nothing to do with having can Friars along the east coast of the Franciscans at St. Francis of Assisi U.S. They met with Father David and in Raleigh today. painted a wonderful picture of St. Fran- cis of Assisi Church. Father David was “Franciscans pastoring St. Francis of intrigued by this group of parishioners Assisi happened because of a friend- who made such a bold move on their Fr. David McBriar, O.F.M., second pastor of ship between a young friar and a own. This was exactly what Holy our Parish and first Franciscan pastor. Jesuit who started the parish,” Father Name Province had envisioned in their Bill says. “That’s the reason we’re call to empower the laity. In time, here—well, the reason we’re here is Father David was enticed to leave his Father Bill McConville, O.F.M., who because our provincial said we could administrative role and return to parish was assigned as Associate Pastor in be here. But ultimately, that’s how it ministry. 2001, confirms that, indeed, Raleigh's became part of our map.” St. Francis of Assisi parish was off the Father David says, “I was Personnel “Mission territory, it’s funny,” Father radar screen. It was not a part of the Director in the province and it was at David says with a chuckle. “So, we discussions for Franciscan ministries that time in administration when we had that meeting and then, lo and of the future. were looking to branch out a little bit.” behold, circumstances were such that “It wasn't until after Jim English left and a friar, the Vicar Provincial Matthew Holy Name administrators had already there was a movement by the people Conklin, O.F.M., and myself were been searching for new places in the who went up to New York to request given the task of seeing if there were South where they could . that the Franciscans be sent down any benign bishops.” Father David began by calling a here, that we all became perfectly meeting of friars.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 15 Parish History 1982-2012 Father David and Father Matt visited “Dan Kenna couldn’t come at that time; Baptist Church. “If a Jesuit and a Fran- Our Lady of Grace in Greensboro. he was serving in New Jersy, so he ciscan could live together, then surely was locked in. The person who wanted the and the Catholics could “Our Lady of Grace was a church that to come, who stepped right up to the live together!” Father Bob jokes. a non-Catholic built for his Catholic plate, was Father Tim Gritman. He wife with the stipulation that nothing “Secondly,” Father Bob says on a was a wonderful guy,” says Father ever be changed in it,” Father David more serious note, “I had the unique David. After a time, however, Father says. “Matt and I went down there to privilege of serving Father English, the Tim backed out. “Raleigh seemed so see this church. It was kind of a beauti- first pastor who was a Jesuit, and far away,” Father David explains. ful church, marble altar rail, kind of like Father David McBriar, the first “Those kinds of issues continued to a cathedral. But when we heard about Franciscan pastor. arise, and soon there were no volun- this stipulation, we said this is not for teers. So I said, ‘Well, I think we ought “And thirdly, St. Francis of Assisi is a us. We were not going to take march- to do it and I’m willing to go.’ And I welcoming parish where people who ing orders from somebody who says asked Bob Hudak if he would come have been broken or have gone what you can and what you can’t do. with me.” through difficult experiences can find So we wrote off Our Lady of Grace.” healing.” When they got to St. Francis, Father The Parish Council also met with Father Bob was no stranger to difficult Matt and Father David had conversa- Bishop Gossman to ask that he con- experiences. He says some struggles tions with many people, asking about in his life had led him to step out of the the parish’s strengths and needs. Franciscan Order so he could deal “Most everybody was enthusiastic “Judy Shiel, Mary with those issues. But eventually, he about the possibilities of the parish,” reflects, he learned some issues just Father David says. “Jim English em- Morch, and can’t be solved. He credits St. Francis powered the people to run the place. Marylynn Kaus, all with helping him return to the life of They took over; they did what had to being a priest, though.“I had been be done. Judy Shiel, Mary Morch, and employees, were the working on the staff of a United States Marylyn Kaus, all employees, were the main movers and Congressman in Philadelphia when main movers and shakers.” shakers.” my good friend Jim English called me Father David was impressed with down.” what he saw, particularly with the high By the time Father Bob came to degree of involvement from the laity. - Fr. David McBriar, O.F.M. on Raleigh for a visit, he had not been However, Father David recalls, “I lay empowerment in our early practicing as a priest for two years. remember saying to Murray and Chris, Parish. One of his more memorable homilies ‘I’m not sure you want the friars. You among St. Francis parishioners had to want Bob Hudak and we can’t guaran- do with this struggle. In this homily, tee that Bob Hudak will come here.’” sider having the parish served by the Father Bob shared that he had just Having talked at the time with Father Franciscans of Holy Name Province. made the decision to stop practicing as Lewis, Father David also knew that it Like Father David, Bishop Gossman a priest, but he was still in so much was Father Lewis’ wish that St. Francis was impressed with these parishioners turmoil about the decision that he went would become more in the mainstream who seemed to take matters into their up to Woodstock, New York to be of the diocese than it was. own hands. In July 1987, Bishop alone and to reflect on his life and “Location. There was a certain concern Gossman invited the Franciscan Friars what he was called to do. that the parish of North Raleigh wasn’t to minister at St. Francis of Assisi. One evening, just before dark, he went being linked well with the diocese, as if Father David McBriar, O.F.M., became out jogging on O’Hayo Mountain Road. we were a little boat out there on our the second pastor of the parish. He While he jogged, he cried and prayed. own,” Father David says. He adds was there for a month before Bob He asked God for a sign. He wanted to that there were also some liturgical Hudak arrived and was named know if he had made the right deci- practices not in line with diocesan Associate Pastor. sion. Presently, he crossed paths with practices, which led to criticism. “Three things come to mind when I a bicyclist named Joseph, who looked However, David recalls, “I remember think of St. Francis,” Father Bob says. like Cat Stevens. “Oh no,” he thought. at the provincial meetings, both Matt One was his first memory of the “What if this guy talks to me? I don’t Conklin and I said that St. Francis had church, when he had attended one of want to get into a conversation with real potential for the friars, for our style the Saturday evening masses that him. What will I say if he asks me what of ministry. I gathered a meeting to see Father English held at Leesville Road I do for a living?” if we could get two friars to go there.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 16 Parish History 1982-2012 But Joseph did stop Father Bob, and “Some people’s struggle is about “In the winter when it was cold outside, he did ask him what he did for a living. believing in God,” he says. “I don’t you’d walk into the church for liturgy Father Bob told him that two days ago struggle with that. I believe in God. and a cat would slip in with you,” Pat he was a priest. He and Joseph talked What I struggle with is trusting my recalls. “They loved the cloth-covered for quite awhile. When Father Bob inner voice. Trusting that voice inside chairs that were nice and warm from finished sharing his heart-wrenching me, hearing God’s voice inside me.” your sitting on them. So you’d stand up troubles, he waited for Joseph’s Father Bob described this event as for part of the mass and a cat would response. Joseph said, “Far out.” part of his very significant journey that take your chair. You had no idea this led him to Father English and to was going on behind your back. Then Then Joseph told Father Bob what he St. Francis of Assisi. He visited often you’d sit down and you’d go, ‘Whoa!’ was doing in Woodstock. Joseph said when Father English was pastor and because you had just sat on a cat!” that just the day before, he went to a Stray animals and people alike felt welcomed.

Fr. Bob Hudak, O.F.M. As with their Jesuit predecessor, the with Cat A, an honorary Franciscans welcomed warmly all who member of the Parish. came to St. Francis of Assisi. The par- ish led the way in social outreach and in empowering the laity, both of which continue today. The parish continued to grow at a rapid rate, and parishion- ers and guests were soon standing outside the church during the liturgies because of the crowds.

“The parish was founded by Jim English,” says Father Mark. “But when Father David came, he sort of re-founded it on the priorities that our Holy Name of Jesus Province had at the time, which include partnership with the laity, reaching out to those who are marginalized, and fraternity in mission.” Those priorities were able to blossom here because St. Francis was a place that did not have a lot of bag- gage. It was always thriving and grow- ing and adopting new venues through which to serve the community.

“Bob came and we had some great Gene Pipas on piano, years together,” Father David remem- leads our music ministry bers. “There were some fine things in the original church. that developed during those years. We picked up the Prison Ministry as well as the Gay and Lesbian Ministry. We didn’t have it here, but we had Catholic church, intending to “cleanse priests who were willing to go to the returned as Associate Pastor with his soul” by speaking to a priest, but little Episcopal church that had a gay pleasure. He was coming home. no one was home. Father Bob listened and lesbian mass once a month.” He fit right in, too. to Joseph’s confession that night and Fathers David, Bob, and Charlie invited him a few days later to join him “Father Bob loved animals—a perfect Mulholland served those masses, for dinner, which Joseph did. As Franciscan,” Pat Kowite jokes. “He which Bishop Gossman had approved. suddenly as Joseph came into Father adopted these stray cats. He fed them, And so it was that St. Francis em- Bob’s life, he disappeared. Father Bob and they made their home here at St. braced contemporary adult theology. lived on O’Hayo Mountain Road for ten Francis. The staff and parishioners months. And ever since then, Father called them Cat A and Cat B. Briefly, Father David continues, “It was also Bob never again asked God for a sign. there was even a Cat C. during those years that we started

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 17 Parish History 1982-2012 Passage Home, which was our first While Passage Home and other vided a model other parishes through- powerful outside ministry. We were social justice ministries proliferated, out the diocese would soon adopt. always ecumenically minded, starting St. Francis also broke new ground Mary Morch also broke new ground in with our first faith formation classes in in the Diocese of Raleigh when it the Diocese of Raleigh. Mary began Leesville Road Baptist Church and employed the first lay business her role at St. Francis as the first Creedmoor Baptist.” administrator, Julio De La Rosa, and Youth Minister for our high school the first volunteer coordinator, Mary teens. She left that role after four With the of parishioner Jeanne Morch. When Holy Name Province set years, but she found a new service to Tedrow, St. Francis created Passage forth to empower the laity, St. Francis our growing faith community. Home to address the needs of the of Assisi was ready to answer the call. Many parishioners were eager to be- poor in Raleigh. The ministry began with a conversation Jeanne had with Father David at his first St. Francis Parish Picnic. Parishioner Paul Williams joined the talks and Passage Home was born.

The ministry initially consisted of a group of parishioners who renovated houses for the underprivileged. A few months later, members of Lincoln Park Passage Home renovated house. Holiness Church, an African-American Pentecostal church in Raleigh's inner city, strolled over to volunteers reno- vating a house near their church. They asked what was being done Ms Burrell (left) and Jeanne Tedrow (right) in and invited Jeanne to meet with their the garden of one of the pastor, Bishop Ratcliffe. Many talks first Passage Homes and lunches later, the two churches joined together as a first-of-its-kind ecumenical program. Passage Home is now a highly successful initiative that addresses the root causes of pov- erty. It is an independent, faith-based, interracial community development corporation run by the laity.

Using a community economic Clare Hall – Originally development strategy, Passage Home called “The Parish assists hundreds of families in transi- Center”, Clare Hall tion, developing affordable housing provided much-needed opportunities for them that have space for our rapidly included home ownership and small growing Parish. business development. Through life-skills education, spiritual compan- Julio De La Rosa came to St. Francis come involved with our ministries, but ionship and emotional support, after retiring as a manager at IBM. they had no idea how they could best Passage Home has strengthened He was already involved with many answer that call. Mary helped them the lives of those they touch. ministries as a volunteer and had a find volunteer roles that used their tal- Jeanne, now the Executive Director rich spiritual life as a Benedictine ents. She also taught staff members of Passage Home, says they “develop . His spirituality and his busi- how to turn over some of their many programs and services for families and ness acumen made him a perfect fit for duties to these new volunteers. Father neighborhoods that lift them out of our parish and consequently allowed David encouraged Mary to develop .” By partnering with other faith the pastor more time for our ministries this role and Father Dan Kenna, communities, they have accomplished and our parishioners. Julio brought O.F.M., the next pastor, officially far more than they ever could have good business practices to St. Francis named Mary as the first Coordinator of alone. and, for the first time, our parish devel- Ministry Development in the diocese. oped strong financial policies that pro-

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 18 Parish History 1982-2012 Again, other parishes jumped on board With the flourishing of new ministries The Fellowship Hall was used for large and created similar positions. The as well as the Research Triangle social gatherings, basketball and for a United States Conference of Catholic Park, our parish, of course, continued second liturgy at 10:30 on Sundays for Bishops has called us to share our to grow. Again, we outgrew our overflow attendance. The Fellowship gifts of time, talent and treasure—to buildings. Hall, like all the rooms in the Parish give back a portion of the gifts God Center, was used constantly for many “We knew we needed to build the has given to us. Through Mary Morch, ministries. As with our church, flexibil- Parish Center,” Father David says. our parishioners could figure out ity in design was the basis for planning “Sam Jordan led the charge on that. exactly how to do that. Brava, Mary! the Parish Center. I remember Sam telling me that he As the parish meeting space grew, so, too, did parish ministries. Clare Hall was booked every night within a year of its completion. And during the day, a brand new ministry was being 3 created that would change our parish 5 6 8 2 4 7 forever. While Clare Hall was being 1 built, meetings were held to investigate the possibility of having a preschool program at St. Francis.

There already existed a children's story hour and other similar volunteer ministries. One parishioner, Sharon Ardolino, led the way in planning a 10 9 formal, expanded program for children 12 11 ages three and four. Since our new building was on the way with plenty of room, it seemed like a wonderful Originally called “The Early Childhood Learning Center” the St. Francis of addition to our parish ministries. Assisi Preschool was founded in 1982 with Nancy Bourke as the Director. Shown here: 1. Mackenzie Slaney The Early Childhood Learning Center 2. Patrick Phelan was opened in September 1991. 3. Hamilton Parishioner Nancy Bourke, who taught 4. Emily Throndson at the Early Childhood Center at St. 5. Evan Goff Raphael's parish and was a catechist 6. Megan Deu at St. Francis, was chosen as the 7. Peter Mangano Director. Nancy brought her conta- 8. Evan Watson gious enthusiasm, her love of children 9. Robert Grey and her Southern charm to the Nancy Bourke 10. Kevin Feeley 11. David Ruiz preschool. It has grown every year since its opening. 12. Son As the Early Childhood Learning Center grew, so, too, did the parish. By 1993, the parish membership Other groundbreaking initiatives that would do as much or as little as I numbered 2300 families. With grew out of our faith community were wanted. I said, ‘Sam, the thing is continued growth, construction of a the creation of the Carolina Interfaith yours.’” new sanctuary became a necessity. Taskforce for Central America, begun Dedicated in October of 1991, the We just didn't fit in our little barn by parishioner Gail Phares, and the Parish Center, now known as Clare church any longer. hiring of the first parish lay employee Hall, included 10 meeting rooms, a in the diocese to promote social jus- library, a kitchen, office space, and a tice, Paul Amrhein. Fellowship Hall that doubled as a gym.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 19 Parish History 1982-2012 Building for the – A new sanctuary is built to seat our many members.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 20 Parish History 1982-2012 The Later Years, 1997-Today on Condoret, a Chapel Hill archi- “Then I saw some of the churches and Like Father English, Frank saw tect originally from France, was restorations that he did, and I thought and appreciated the natural structure J hired to design a new worship his ideas were in keeping with what of barns. He continued the design of space. We chose Jon because the parish had begun. So, we hired the original church. His slide show of the natural simplicity of his him. He was a blessing. presentation included photos of designs, his ability to use windows barns throughout the United States, “He was a genius, and a very difficult and natural light to bring in the outside illustrating their simplicity and their man to work with—by his own admis- environment, and his talent for blend- beauty. He, too, built a simple sion,” he says. “Frank refused to work ing the old with the new. The goal was church made with natural materials. with a committee, so it took a great to create a new worship space that deal of finesse to work with him. He Those natural materials were at the would “fit” with the existing buildings. had all of the ideas and all of the heart of Brother Frank’s design. He Brother Frank Kacmarcik was chosen answers. We somehow had to make used granite as a sign of the endur- as the liturgical design consultant. He sure the committee’s ideas were ance of our faith. He used woods with- was a Benedictine Oblate at Saint filtered to him, but it wasn’t as though out heavy stains, pews with no cush- John’s Abbey in Minnesota and a they weren’t really Frank’s anyway.” ions, walls of simple concrete blocks. renowned authority on sacred art and He used glass windows that had only a architecture. His belief was that a hint of color. He likened the bigger construction budget wasn’t windows and the view beyond to the answer to building better a Monet painting, allowing an churches. impressionist’s view of the out- doors to enter, but not distract “There are more bad churches from the liturgy and the parish- built with too much money than ioners inside. Bits of golden with lack of it,” says Brother Frank. color were woven into the glass He advocated the use of timeless to remind one of the sun. materials, from the mud of a Brother Frank designed the altar pueblo to marble. “The essential so that the eye would be drawn ingredients for worship space are to it, not the ceiling. simplicity, proportion, and ‘the poetry of light’. A church is a “He originally wanted a more container for the people of God,” simple altar,” says Father Mark. Brother Frank explained. “It’s the “The Red House”, which provided office space for Faith “But he made the altar a more people inside that make it holy.” Formation and Liturgy staff members and, later, residence complex and substantive piece for a refugee family from Kuwait, was moved to Durham to keep the eye from wandering For almost two years during the when the church was built. to the ceiling. He modeled it construction of the new sanctuary, loosely after the altar in the Brother Frank worked closely with Jon Many meetings were held, and Brother lower church of the Basilica of Condoret, Father David, and Father Frank talked to the Liturgy Committee, St. Francis of Assisi. The altar in Dan Kenna. (Father Dan had finally the Building Committee and the Assisi is actually made out of wood.” come to St. Francis and was serving parishioners. as Associate Pastor.) “Frank liked the idea of sight-lines and “He showed his slide show, which was having people face each other,” says Father David had become acquainted tremendously impressive,” says Father Father Bill. “He put the focus on the with Brother Frank’s work many years David. “The committee members were people rather than on the stained glass before. First, Father David listened to captured by it. I think his style fit in well windows. He didn’t like stained glass; Brother Frank’s lecture in a Cistercian with them, with the spirit of the parish.” he wanted the community to provide monastery. Then he read about the the color.” awards Brother Frank had received for “Frank was self-taught,” according to Excellence in Liturgy. “He really put Father Bill. “He may have something to “He once came here all the way from form and function together, which I say about the building, but he mostly Minnesota just to make sure we used think embodied the spirit of the Second creates the spaces inside.” the right shade of white paint on the Vatican Council,” says Father David. walls,” says Pat Kowite, “so that the

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 21 Parish History 1982-2012 Worship Aid for the Dedication of the new sanctuary, June 16, 1996.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 22 Parish History 1982-2012 faces of the people would stand out. In another radical departure from the we might be sent forth to the streets That was important to him. He also traditional, our new building included a to proclaim to all that our unity as redesigned the shape and placement room for having wakes at St. Francis. children of God transcends the barriers of the pews so nothing would interfere The Parlor seems simple enough—a of gender, class, race, and lifestyle with our seeing one another. room adjacent to the Gathering Space that so often divide.” Brother Frank said, ‘The people are that looks very much like the living The of the new church the jewels.”’ room of a home. The Parlor has only building proclaims: My house shall be two designated uses. It is a place Brother Frank and Jon Condoret a house of prayer for all people.“That's where brides prepare for their wed- greatly changed our interior worship what our lives must also say,” said dings and it is a place for wakes before space, but they did no less outdoors. Father David. He told parishioners to funerals. It is a place where we cele- Under Father David's radically creative learn from the wise women and men brate new life. Many Catholic parishes vision, St. Francis of Assisi became who founded this parish and to be now have wakes at the church, but at one of the first Catholic churches in the guided by their inspiration. the time we built the new sanctuary United States to build a Columbarium and the Parlor, having a wake at a In September of 1995, in the midst in its Memorial Garden. The Colum- church instead of a funeral home was of construction, Father Dan Kenna barium is a place of great faith, a place became the third for the cremated pastor of St. Francis remains of our dead. of Assisi. He Parishioners visit always dreamed each time they come and hoped he would to church. As we come to the South pass through the to minister. He had Memorial Garden, we heard good stories are reminded that we about the parish are linked together in from Father David. life and death He first came in through our faith and 1993 and served as one day we will be Associate Pastor. united with God and October 2000, dedication of He arrived in a red those we love. The Doggett Family Media Center mustang and Pat Kowite notes, sported a rat tail. “When we saw the The Mustang and plans for the Colum- October 2000, dedication of The Franciscan School, the rat tail didn't last barium on paper, Bishop Joseph Gossman with very long, but we thought it was a Fr. Dan Kenna, O.F.M., third pastor of our parish. Father Dan did. wonderful idea. We He brought with loved the theology and the beauty of unheard of in the Diocese of Raleigh him his own desire to bring about lay the Memorial Garden. But we had no and in most Catholic churches in the empowerment and social outreach. idea how beautiful it would become, United States. Like having the He reached out to our parish commu- what a spiritual place it would be. I Columbarium, having wakes at St. nity in a personal way. He spent many have seen teenagers come every Francis has brought a deep sense of hours counseling parishioners who month on the date that their friend spirituality to our families experiencing were experiencing hardships. His died in an auto accident. They prayed death, far beyond anything we outreach to our faith community was together and they cried together. imagined. These families are at home a big part of his ministry. at St. Francis. “I have seen widows bring their visiting Father Dan had a great rapport with grandchildren to the Columbarium and On June 16, 1996, as Bishop adolescents, teens and young adults. tell them stories of their grandfather. Gossman dedicated the new sanctuary As the South Regional Vocation The most moving gesture, though, is at St. Francis of Assisi, Father David Director for Holy Name Province, the touch of the hand on the granite. challenged parishioners to look toward he met with anyone interested in Seeing a parishioner go up to one of the future. becoming a Franciscan. He always the niches and place a hand on that had a warm smile and greeting for any “Yes, this new room of reverence is granite and pause with head down is of our young parishioners. He loved our place to gather,” he said, “but not to see our faith come alive. It is very basketball and often used athletics to our place to stay. While it provides a moving, something we never imagined reach out to the youth. place of worship, it does so only that when we were looking at blueprints.”

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 23 Parish History 1982-2012 Father Dan was progressive in his According to Father Dan, “There is announced to the parish, a special theology. He was impressed with the something unique, something distinc- ceremony was held at the corner of vision already present in our parish. tive about the Franciscan approach to Leesville Road and New Leesville He once said of St. Francis that education. A Franciscan school in our Road, across from Harrington Grove. although the calendar read 1996, the parish will emphasize the dignity and One of the highlights of the event was parishioners were already living in the value of each person. It will strive to to be the release of several white 21st century. cultivate the singular gifts and talents doves. The day was very hot and the of each student so that they, in turn, doves became a little overheated in “The calendar simply has not kept up might in their own day be committed their cage, so that when released, they with us at St. Francis,” he said. “More to the on-going development of their didn’t have the energy to fly. A couple and more of us are searching for world.” of them ran onto Leesville Road and deeper meaning in our lives. It is a had to be rescued from the traffic. The search that was once private. At St. Father Dan once told the parish com- others were put back in the cage and Francis it has become public. We thirst munity, “It's my belief that education, taken into air conditioned rooms. for spirituality. And we are not alone. if it is to be worthwhile, must develop Despite the failure to launch the doves, A recent national survey of twenty- what is best in people and make them it was a great occasion for the parish.” somethings ranked 'finding spiritual not only clever, but good.” fulfillment' more important than achiev- ing financial success. That's exciting. That's what's next. That's our future.”

When Father Dan uttered those words, he didn't realize the extent of “our future” at St. Francis. It was in that same year, 1996, that the Diocese of Raleigh formed an inter-parochial School Committee to determine the need for Kindergarten through Grade 8 parochial schools in Raleigh.

By June 1997, a report completed by Meitler Consultants presented the findings. Faced with “the daunting challenges of pent-up demand for Catholic schools and a growing popu- lation” from 1997 to 2015, the study recommended that a new elementary school be opened at St. Francis of The Franciscan School opened in August 2000 with founding principal Barbara Polston. Assisi. The Meitler Report found that Just as important was the planning of the zip code areas of our parish had The Franciscan School opened its a school that would be integrated into the greatest immediate and future doors in August 2000 with 320 the existing ministries of the parish. need for a parochial school. Father students. Within one year, The The building would house the elemen- Dan commented that it looked like we Franciscan School was accredited and tary and middle schools as well as were going to build a school. had an enrollment of 462. Father Dan faith formation programs, a daily personally interviewed all candidates And that's exactly what happened. mass chapel and rooms available for for teaching positions, along with the ministries to use for special programs. With a vision of continuing an 800-year founding principal, Barbara Polston. This would not be a school that stood -old tradition of Franciscan education, Its enrollment, like that of the Early apart from the parish. We sought to Father Dan appointed a St. Francis Childhood Learning Center, has grown blend the new buildings with the old Task Force in the each year. Years passed and the and the new ministries with the old. summer of 1997 to answer tough parish continued to grow. In July of questions. If we build it, will they Julio De La Rosa, the Director of 2004, Father Mark G. Reamer, O.F.M., come? How big should we build, Finance and Administration at the became the fourth pastor of St. Francis and how much will it cost? Could all time, recalls the grand announcement after having served as Associate of the classes be filled in the first year? of the school construction to our Pastor since 1995. parishioners. “On the day that building of The Franciscan School was officially

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 24 Parish History 1982-2012 “My first experience with the parish high and tight in accordance with And reflecting upon his own goals for was actually with First Reconciliation military regulations, ate MRE’s (meals the parish, Father Mark sums it up in of the children in January of 1993,” ready to eat), donned desert camou- one word: unity. says Father Mark. “I came to visit flage and flak jacket, and spent his “My goal is to continue to unite the when Father Dan was here.” The way downtime reading, writing letters, or parish so that we are continuing to be the parish celebrated reconciliation playing cards. connected with one another in the touched Father Mark. “The people After arriving back in North Carolina, sense of community, and continue to standing up and the family holding Father Mark took a week hiatus to visit reach out to whose who hunger and hands together was something very his family before he began preaching thirst for human dignity.” different that I hadn’t experienced again at St. Francis in July. before.” But he also has his eye focused on the When Father Mark first addressed the needs beyond the parish boundaries, In fact, Father Mark took the idea back congregation, he told them it was good evaluating the needs of the community to St. Francis of Assisi Church in Tri- to be home. Parishioners burst into and how ready the parish is to respond angle, Virginia where he was serving applause. to those needs. He pointed to the at the time and instituted a new tradi- name of the 2007 capital campaign as tion of having the child hold hands with being a reflection of his goals as the family after he or she receives the pastor: Growing in Faith Together. of Reconciliation. “The word together is important in That simple act of the family holding terms of how we all move forward,” hands after the child’s First Reconcilia- Father Mark says. tion struck Father Mark as exciting. From that capital campaign came the “Wow,” he thought, “this is a more next phase of our parish growth and meaningful way of doing things.” After construction. We now have a new that, he came down to Raleigh to visit Daily Chapel and Community Center, a couple times more. and an enlarged Early Childhood “There was always this sense of Learning Center. Completed soon openness to the church,” he says. afterwards was the Center for “Even when I came down to the Lifelong Learning and renovations to church, there was still this sense of Clare Hall. This we do together. vibrancy and I remember initially being Together in faith. overwhelmed by the numbers of And so we arrive back at St. Francis people—and back then the parish of Assisi of our present day and look was just half of its current size!” to our future, moving forward together. Father Mark remembers seeing all This is the hallmark of our faith the new faces. “Mass after mass, they community. We have never been just kept coming in with this energy, Fr. Mark G. Reamer O.F. M., fourth pastor satisfied with the status quo. The very excitement, youthfulness.” of our Parish and third Franciscan pastor beginning of our parish is anchored in a group of faith-filled Catholic Just before Father Mark officially Christians who wanted to worship our became St. Francis of Assisi’s fourth When asked how it felt to receive a God together in a new way, in a new pastor, he served the religious needs standing ovation after being away for place. We have always looked for new of marines and sailors serving in the six months, Mark laughs off the acco- and better ways to pray together, play desert of Kuwait and Iraq during lades. “I guess I did receive a standing together and serve the people of God Operation Enduring Freedom and ovation,” he says. “But they were together. That is our past and this is Operation Iraqi Freedom. already standing, so does that ?” our future. As a reserve Navy chaplain, Father Looking back at the accomplishments Mark was activated in January 2003. of St. Francis’s more recent pastors, He left Raleigh and prepared for war at Father Mark says, “David’s strength Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and in was really the social outreach, having Camp Pendleton, California. For six us look beyond ourselves. I think months he lived in a tent with more Dan’s strength was the Catholic school than 40 men in the desert of northern and including that in the mission of the Kuwait—without running water or air parish.” conditioning. Father Mark wore his hair

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 25 Parish History 1982-2012 Elizabeth Hall

Elizabeth Hall gets a facelift - just in time for the 20th Anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi Preschool .

Left to Right: Fr. Mark G. Reamer, O.F.M., Pastor Jennifer Bigelow, Director of Catholic Education and Formation Most Reverend Michael Burbidge, Bishop of Raleigh Nancy Bourke, Director of St. Francis of Assisi Preschool

Lobby of Elizabeth Hall—Preschool building

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 26 Parish History 1982-2012 Assisi Community Center

If you build it, they will come.

Our community center, dedicated April 25th, 2010 is a place for gathering, for forming roots in our faith community.

The gym has brought and explosion of new programs, from volleyball to basketball to exercise classes and summer programs.

The Assisi Café is an informal place for parishioners, prayer groups, and ministries to gather.

The Cupertino Room is usually filled with teens, exercise groups and clubs.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 27 Parish History 1982-2012 St. Mary of the Angels Chapel

St. Mary of the Angels Chapel—a place of faith.

Our new Chapel, like our original and current sanctuaries, is designed with simplicity. Here we celebrate small weddings and funerals, prayer services and daily mass. Here we feel the presence of our God.

Presentation of LEED Gold Awards to Fr. Mark G. Reamer O.F.M., Fr. John O’Connor O.F.M., of Holy Name Province and Bishop Burbidge for environmentally sound buildings Elizabeth Hall, Assisi Community Center, and St. Mary of the Angels Chapel. The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 28 Parish History 1982-2012 The Siena Center for Lifelong Learning

(Top) Construction in progress for the Siena Center for Lifelong Learning. (Above) Completed Siena Center for Lifelong Learning

Jennifer Bigelow and Bishop Burbidge celebrate the National Blue Ribbon Award presented to the Franciscan School in 2011

Bishop Burbidge and Fr. Mark visit with middle school classes on the day of dedication, January 31, 2011.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 29 Parish History 1982-2012 The Art of Joany Condoret

In 2011, St. Francis was blessed with Influenced by stained glass windows the gift of stained glass art created by in European cathedrals, Joany initially Joany Condoret, the wife of architect, used colored glass in her works. Her Jon Condoret, who designed our sanc- first two large figures are St. Francis of tuary and Memorial Garden and re- Assisi, made with 125 individual pieces modeled Anthony Hall. Staff members of glass in 25 colors, and Mary remember Jon speaking of his wife’s Magdelene, made with 240 pieces works. We never imagined we would of glass and 10 colors. have her art gracing our buildings. Later, Joany migrated to clear glass to All of Joany’s glass work has been better symbolize the purity of her belief inspired by the bible. Her juxtaposition in God. She almost destroyed her of the lighter, darker and textured original two pieces because she was glass with heavy solder are integral no longer pleased with the color. parts of her designs. We are glad the pieces survived her design change.

You can now see Joany’s stained glass art framed by Jon’s windows. While that was never a part of our building design or theirs, it brings poetry to our buildings and to our parish history.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 30 Parish History 1982-2012 Here we are! The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi

he Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi, as it is today. It was not always so.

Our buildings have grown many times over the years. When Clare Hall, first called the Parish Center, was being built, Fr. Bob Hudak spoke of our new building in a homily. He told of his dream, a vision really. He walked down the hall and passed many rooms. In one room, Alcoholics Anonymous was meeting to give people the courage and support they needed. In another, children were being formed in their faith. In another, teens were planning a retreat. In yet another, parishioners planned outreach programs for the poor and marginalized. As he continued down the corridor, each room was bustling with good people doing good work, God’s work. Fr. Bob’s dream became a reality.

In the words of parishioner Marylynn Kaus, our buildings are not just bricks and mortar. Our buildings are made of people of God doing God’s work. This is our history. This is our future.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 31 Parish History 1982-2012 Our tour of St. Francis begins at the beginning, at our original church with its circular drive.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 32 Parish History 1982-2012 Tour of St. Francis of Assisi Author’s Note: I was given a tour of the down and beyond the sheetrock walls (Anyone using the restroom during church by parishioner Pat Kowite. that block your vision now. (You’ll see mass flushed to a full audience.) After I learned two things on that tour: one, where the original altar had been many transformations, the room is Pat has an acute memory; and two, later.) There were no glass windows once again a kitchen. The restroom is she gifts the parish with her great along the side walls back then and the a hike down the hall, but it is much enthusiasm for its history. What you wood had a natural wood stain. roomier now. are about to read is what I’ve gleaned While you are still at the doorway, Walk outside through the double doors from Pat. I had a blast on her tour and look to your right. You’ll see a door to and head left. Stand in the walkway hope to convey her information and a closet—this room used to be the with the old church on your left, Lees- energy in a jaunty narrative for you. sacristy. It was actually two rooms: the ville Road behind you, and the court- Any errors are mine, as will be any Reconciliation Room with its entrance yard with the fountain in front of you. misdirection. If you get lost, just around the corner and the vesting holler—someone will be along shortly. The building on your right is now sacristy where the priest and altar Elizabeth Hall. Originally, it was much servers prepared for liturgies. smaller than what you see now. This The Original Church On the wall to the left of this sacristy was formerly the Parish Office with two door is a fire alarm panel, but it wasn’t offices, a supplies and copier space et’s start with the old and restrooms. Father English’s office church—or what remains of “We talk now was on the back side of the building. the old church. The original about how we Sliding glass doors led from his office L post and beam structure is to a little, wooden deck outside. This is still there, but its interior is need more where we put an altar for mass at the so transformed that you have to meeting rooms,” first parish picnic. Parishioners brought engage your imagination to see it blankets or lawn chairs and sat on the as it used to be. But, let’s try…. Pat says. “But our wide lawn just beyond the deck. Back

Start in the Gathering Space at the first ‘meeting then, everyone brought dinner for their own family with extra food to share. fireplace. room’ was outside Walk down the hallway from the in the courtyard, Look at the courtyard. It looks very Gathering Space, past the restrooms similar now to the original design. We on your right, and dogleg your way around the gathered here as a faith community for all kinds of functions. back to what is today called the fountain.” Anthony Hall Founders’ Room—the “We talk now about how we need more back of the original church. Parishioner Pat Kowite on our beginnings. meeting rooms,” Pat says. “But our

Walk to the double glass doors and first ‘meeting room’ was outside in the look outside. These doors were the always here. Originally, there hung a courtyard, around the fountain.” beautiful bell donated by Judy and Pat main entrance to the church. Gaze out “The courtyard was where most of the Shiel. They brought it back from a the front doors toward Leesville Road. social events took place. And if it was monastery in Ireland. The bell tolls at Can you envision the circular drive that raining, you stood under these covered The Franciscan School now, calling used to be in the front of the building? walkways,” she says. “The First students to their morning prayers. Parishioners dropped off family mem- Communion receptions were held When our parish first began, there bers at the front door to the church and outside. Children’s Liturgy of the Word. were many liturgies, especially on the then parked their cars. Look to your Dinners. Everything was held outside.” left to the woods; that is where the first weekdays, that had no music minister. outdoor mass was celebrated to bless Father English used to ring this bell to “If you needed a table and chairs, the ground of our future church. signal the beginning of mass. It was there was one indoor room for you. our call to worship. It was a meeting room where there is Now turn around and stand with your now a breezeway between Elizabeth Now look to your left and you’ll see a back to Leesville Road. You are look- and Clare Halls. It was a place to hold little kitchen. Originally, this kitchen ing down what used to be the center meetings, such as for Pastoral Council was two rooms: an even smaller aisle toward the altar, which was way and Finance Council.” kitchen and a really small restroom.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 33 Parish History 1982-2012 Beyond Elizabeth Hall and the meeting children, Bob Hudak’s farewell party, inverted tree stump that stood about room was where the rectory, now teen dances, and more. four feet tall. It was almost as wide. called the friary, used to be. The Now we’ll move on from the Founders’ “A friend of Father English had a farm Parish Office, the meeting room and Room. As you exit the room, you will in Statesville,” Pat says. “And that the rectory were all connected as one see a large quilted hanging on the absolutely huge three trunk came long building. wall. This was made by parishioner from his farm.” “I remember the day the friary was Vickie Reno and others for the 25th Parishioner Don Donaghy remembers moved to its current location. I had just Anniversary of the parish. It has a lot St. Francis acquiring “The Tree”. He begun as a staff member and con- of our history stitched into the design. says that Father English had seen this struction of the Parish Center (now It is appropriately placed at the gigantic stump in the farm field. called Clare Hall) was to begin soon. entrance to the Founders’ Room. I was sitting in the meeting room at my first staff meeting. We looked up and saw the friary moving past the window. We did not accomplish much at the The courtyard staff meeting from that point on. We and fountain, were all glued to the window as we unchanged since watched the friary move across the our early days. property. The friary has changed considerably over the years, but that original “rectory” is still at its core.”

Let’s get back to the Founders’ Room. Head back inside and take a look at the structure.

“When the parishioners said they wanted the church to be a barn,” Pat recalls, “Father English really wanted it to look like a barn.”

The wood itself – the posts and beams – were recovered from buildings in the northeast slated to be demolished. St. Francis used a company that specialized in salvaging and reusing good materials from old buildings.

Pat points to one of the posts in the center of Anthony Hall. “You see this square hole in this post? This is a hole from the post’s former use,” she explains. “These posts are really old. Baptismal font made from a tree stump. And it’s such hard wood that when we tried to hang up children’s First Eucharist banners, we could not even Interior of the original sanctuary. get a nail in. It is as hard as rock!”

Now, look around the room and As you turn, you will be looking down “And Father English’s wheels started imagine it filled with individual chairs the corridor. Not too far down on the turning,” Don said. “He went over and with blue padding. Because we had no left is the Anthony Hall Conference asked the guy, ‘What are you going to social hall, we often used the church Room, recognizable by its door with a do with this stump?’ The farmer said for gatherings. The blue chairs were stained glass panel. he was just going to get rid of it, so moved to the side walls for larger This used to be the choir wing and the Father English told him that we would functions. This sacred space has seen baptismal area of the original church. like to use it as a baptismal font. The many liturgical celebrations as well as Early parishioners all remember the farmer hauled it down here, somebody any other celebration you can imagine baptismal font as “The Tree”. It was an carved it out, and we used it for years – Faith Formation sessions for our

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 34 Parish History 1982-2012 as our baptismal font… until we found You are standing where the original “George Bastianello built the original out it had termites. Then we had to get altar was—where many altar and those wooden stands,” Pat rid of it.” were conferred, Eucharist shared, and says. “Today those stands are used where many people were blessed. frequently. The time that you see them Pat says the stump was finished with Where the wall juts out is where the most prominently is when we have the a lovely stain, but was never treated presider’s bench stood. The altar was Month of Remembrance in the Gather- correctly. “I was here, teaching a slightly in front of that. ing Space. Photographs of the people CPR class one evening, when Father who died during the year are placed on English poured water into it for the first Close your eyes and imagine…. In George’s stands.” time,” she says. “It was the grand front of you would be the tall glass debut. And the water just leaked out windows and the presider’s bench. George also made the original like a sieve. They never could it On the sides would be two tall wooden tabernacle and the beveled glass properly. They tried many times to fin- stands, and next to the altar were cross that was used in the original ish it so that it wouldn’t leak, which is shorter wooden stands. sanctuary and then in the daily chapel why we had to put a basin inside. And, for many years. The altar was interesting. It was made of course, then we found out it had the so we could use our limited space to Can you imagine being at mass on termites inside and it finally deterio- the best advantage. The feet of the and having those floor-to- rated. By the time we built ceiling, clear glass windows the new sanctuary and on either side of the back Father David was here, it wall? We could see the blue had deteriorated to the sky and the white clouds, point we couldn’t use it. the flowers and the trees. We did put the tree trunk outside, though, and we “When we built the new kept it for a long time church, nobody wanted to because so many people get rid of the glass because felt attached to it. you could see all of nature outside,” Pat says. “Of “Father David began using course, liturgically that’s a wooden stand with a horrible because you’re wonderful, footed copper tempted to pay more bowl in the front of the attention to the birds and the church for ,” Pat trees, the planes coming in, continues. “Those pieces and the people running in also are a part of our late to the liturgy. That is beginnings, though. The actually why we have the wooden stand was made simple stained glass in the by parishioner George current sanctuary. We had Bastianello to be used as a to compromise because candle stand in the original everyone wanted the clear church. The copper bowl glass, but Frank Kacmarcik, was one of Father our liturgical design consult- English’s scavenger finds.” Fr. Mark G. Reamer, O.F.M ant, felt that wasn’t what you Father Bob used to laugh Fr. David McBriar O.F.M. Fr. Bill McConville, O.F.M. want for a church.” and say that somewhere altar sat in two tracks that made it He said, “I want it to be like a Monet there was a one-footed lion who gave movable. It could slide forwards or painting in the sense that you could its other three feet to our parish! back depending on the type of service see muted colors” …but not the planes Let’s continue down the corridor being held. It we had a bride and flying overhead. towards the Gathering Space. You’ll groom in front of the altar, it slid back Okay, now open your eyes. This is soon come to the Guatemala room on to allow more space in front. If we had the end of the original church. Keep your right and a small meeting room more priests con-celebrating a liturgy, walking and you’ll pass the restrooms on your left. If you stand directly the altar moved forward to allow more on the left. Make a pit stop if you need between them, you’ll notice that the space behind. There was a large to and we’ll meet in the parking lot to corridor walls jut out slightly. This oriental rug that covered the tracks. begin the tour of the new church. now non-distinct spot is one of great importance to early parishioners.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 35 Parish History 1982-2012 his liturgical designs as he is for his This is why some of our liturgies are artistic work. “When you leave your celebrated in the Memorial garden. The New Church car in the parking lot, you also leave “Then what do you see as you come behind the busy-ness of your world. inside?” Pat asks as we continue along ere in the parking lot, When you come up the sidewalk and the red bricks. “We pass the Steward- one of the first things enter the Memorial Garden, you are ship Room. We are again reminded of you see are the brick reminded of your baptismal call to our baptismal call not to keep our faith stairs. Keep these gather here. The brick walk that begins H within these walls, but to take it out bricks in mind and at the parking lot and continues all the into the world. In the Stewardship notice where they lead. way into the sanctuary symbolizes that Room, our ministries call to us to life is one journey,” Pat explains. “We Now keep walking up the steps, and become involved, to live our faith.” pause under the breezeway. Look are a resurrection people. We have life to the left at the altar outside in the on earth, we have death, and we have Then you come to the Gathering courtyard. Do you see that design? new life. We are reminded of that with Space. The Gathering Space is an Look at the shape formed by the legs. the baptismal call. important space just outside the sanctuary, since fellowship with Remember that design. You “When we come up the steps and walk other members of our faith community will see it again a little later. through the Resurrection Garden - the before and after mass is considered Memorial Garden where there are “Brother Frank Kacmarcik designed part of our liturgies. this altar and other pieces we’ll see those who have gone before us - it

The brick walk that begins at the parking lot and continues all the way to the altar symbolizes that life is one journey. We are a resurrection people. later for the Infirmary Chapel for Holy reminds us of our own death and our Here we can relax by the cozy Name Province, but they were no new life.” fireplace. The fireplace is a symbol of hospitality, designed to give you an at- longer being used. Holy Name Prov- Father Dan Kenna once said of our home feeling. In front of this fireplace ince donated them to our parish. This Memorial Garden, “We are reminded is the most dramatic work that parish- altar and the baptismal font were too of the greatest truths that we are linked ioner Lee Webster carved for the origi- small in scale for a church of this size, together in death as in life. We are nal sanctuary—the wooden statues of so we use the altar outside,” says Pat. passing through, travelers one and all, the four evangelists, inspired by the “The baptismal font used to be located incorporated in the Body of Christ, one 17th Century folk art from : at the bottom of the stairs outside the day to be united with God and those Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Memorial Garden. It is now used in we love, never to die again.” the daily chapel. One other piece we “These were the first human figures The Memorial Garden and Columbar- received was the presider's chair. It is that Lee carved,” Pat said. “If you look ium is a place of great faith, a place of being used in our sanctuary today.” at the hands and feet, you can see the rest for those who have died. It is also progression as he got better at what Frank Kacmarcik was the leading a gathering place before and after he was doing. Can you take a guess at liturgical design consultant in the weekend liturgies and on other special which one was the last one he did? United States and is well known days of remembrance such as the internationally. He is as respected for Feast of All Souls and the Easter Vigil. The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 36 Parish History 1982-2012 “In the original church, the statues of In the corner is the grandfather clock two huge oak doors. These doors are the evangelists were mounted on four Lee Webster made for Father English significant. They are the doors through columns that were towards the front of as a personal gift. He later donated it which we enter the sanctuary. They the sanctuary. It looked like they were to St. Francis. are prominent in size to make a point. calling us to the Eucharistic table. All people coming to worship enter When he left, Father English took his Frank Kacmarcik loved the statues, but through these common doors. There clock with him because it meant so he hated where they were mounted. are no back doors or side entrances at much to him,” Pat says. “It was given The stained wood statues blended into St. Francis of Assisi because we are to him, not the parish. But when Father the wooden columns. Frank wanted all one people of God. We enter to- English came for the dedication of this them to stand out more. He wanted gether as one—rich and poor, old and new church, he was very touched by them to grab our attention. He looked young, women and men, all races, all our parish and decided the clock for a special place to showcase them creeds. We are made one when we belongs here. So Father English gifted in the new building. Lee would enter these doors to pray together our parish with this clock made for approve.” around the table of the Lord. him by Lee. Isn’t that lovely?” On the wall opposite the fireplace is Before going into the sanctuary Pat adds, “The painting over the sofa the Parlor. Designed to feel like a living though, let's get back to the was painted by one of our parishion- room, this is the room used for Fellowship Table. ers, Michelle Minah. She helped weddings and wakes. Step inside for a design the room and created this “We gather around this table as a faith moment. The talent and generosity of beautiful painting because she wanted community,” Pat says, “just as we

The fireplace and the Fellowship Table are symbols of hospitality in the Gathering Space. our parishioners is found throughout to give of herself. For many years, she gather around the Eucharistic table as this small room. remained anonymous as the painter, community. Look at the altar in the Parishioner Greg Mintel carved a cross but allowed me to use her name for sanctuary. Can you see the similarity to be used for wakes. The background this parish history.” in the design of the oak table and the is mahogany with a black walnut outer altar? Both have many legs around the “The spirit of wanting to do something cross and bird’s eye maple inner simple table. This symbolically reminds for the parish is why we have all these cross. Three nail wounds are made of us that we are one as a faith commu- pieces – the grandfather clock, the purple heart wood. During wakes, that nity when we worship together and cross, the painting, the drapes. Our cross replaces the mirror, and the when we carry our faith beyond the parishioners have poured their hearts casket replaces the table. doors of the church. into St. Francis of Assisi from its very Parishioners, headed by Jeanette beginning until now. We are very “The altar and the oak table are both Doggett, designed the furnishings in blessed.” Now let's go back to the designed after the altar in lower chapel this room. Some sewed the pillows Gathering Space and turn to the right. in Assisi, , where St. Francis is and curtains. Others selected the Before you is the large, oak Fellowship buried,” Pat explains. “Theirs is furniture and the art work. It was a Table. We'll talk about it in a moment. more ornate.” collaborative undertaking. For now, look beyond the table at the

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 37 Parish History 1982-2012 To appreciate the relationship between have to tell you what Loretta Jean’s says. “We do not have the figure of the ornate altar in Italy and the simple response was.” Christ on the cross because it was one in front of you, Pat says, “You designed as a Resurrection cross. Now look up. Up high to the top of the have to get into the mind of Frank Christ has risen. The four golden church. The altar is directly beneath Kacmarcik. He didn’t design our altar ‘jewels’ in the corners represent the the center of the lantern, our steeple- with elaborate decorations. He made nail wounds of Christ. like structure with the large exterior our altar square, so no matter where cross above it. When you leave, be “There are many artistic designs for you sit the altar is the same. Frank sure to take a look at that cross out- crosses in churches throughout the also made it of granite as a symbol of side. It is a “crux gemmata”, or jeweled Catholic Church. Many Americans how rock solid is our faith. ‘Upon this cross, designed and so-named by don’t realize that the more traditional rock, I will build my church.’”

Did you know that a is placed beneath the altar before you? “The story of how we got is just amazing,” Pat says. “It gives you chills.” Go up close to the altar and look between and behind all those legs, down low at the base. Look inside the center there and you will see a small, raised plate.

Can you see the plate with a cross on it? “That is the covering of the ,” Pat explains. “Underneath that plate is a cavity in the granite and in it is a relic, a first degree relic. That Blessing and raising of the exterior means it isn’t, for example, something cross, our crux gemata (jeweled cross). that touched the body of a saint like a piece of cloth; a first degree relic is perhaps a bit of bone from the saint.

“Well, of course, we wanted a first Our interior cross is designed as a resurrection degree relic of St. Francis of Assisi, cross, symbolizing the risen Lord. but there were none available. Parts were spread everywhere, but we couldn't get one. Meanwhile, the construction of our altar was nearing completion and time was running out.”

“At the time, Sister Loretta Jean Schorr was on staff here. She was a member of the Sisters of Divine Providence from Pittsburgh. One of the sisters in Our granite altar is designed after the altar her community was dying of cancer in the lower chapel in Assisi where and was giving away her possessions, St. Francis is buried. one of which was a first degree relic of Frank Kacmarcik. The globe under the crucifix they see in many churches is St. Francis of Assisi. cross represents the earth over which only one of many designs. Ours is a “She had no idea that we were building the cross stands victorious. It is a beautiful symbol of the Resurrection, a new church, no clue that we were Cross of Victory, the symbol of the the Risen Christ at Easter.” looking for a relic of our victory of Christ over death. The baptismal font in the sanctuary and coming up dry,” Pat says. From where you are at the altar, look was designed for both adult and infant “She got in touch with Loretta Jean up at the other cross, the one inside baptisms. Placing the font near the and said, ‘I know you belong to a the church. It, too, is an original work altar was in deference to and in keep- church that has St. Francis of Assisi as of art by Frank Kacmarcik. ing with St. Francis of Assisi’s tradition the patron. Do you think they would of baptizing babies near the altar. like to have this relic?’ I don’t even “We are often asked why there is no corpus on the cross in the church,” Pat The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 38 Parish History 1982-2012 Most contemporary churches have here, up front and near the others’ faces,” Pat says. “It’s one of the the baptismal font at the entrance altar, he said, ‘You were right.’ The things that I appreciate the most about of the church. Frank Kacmarcik—we changed him!” our church. I can look out, and I can see people who are going to our Sister “Brother Frank just about had a fit Any place you go that Frank Kacmar- Parish in Guatemala; I can see people because we wanted baptisms near the cik designed you will see the use of who are working at Passage Home; altar,” Pat recalls. “We told him, ‘This natural materials. “He picked granite I can see people who are working for is what our faith community does.’” and natural wood,” says Pat. “You our other ministries, perhaps for the “It would be like putting a bathtub in don’t see gilded gold and elaborate AIDS Ministry or for the Consolation & the middle of your living room,” designs because Brother Frank Care Ministry or the Faith Formation he responded at the time.” believed that the people are the ministries. These people are living their faith in the truest sense of what we are called to do.

“And then I see somebody who has cancer or someone who is being abused at home. But here, I know they are finding strength in our celebrating our faith together. So when I look out, I see Christ in those people. Christ is present in them just as much as Christ is in the bread and wine. My faith grows when I see the witness of their faith. I love what Brother Frank did here.”

The Eucharistic Chapel was also The altar in the Memorial Garden with its keyhole design that is repeated in other areas. designed by Brother Frank, and is located according to the Diocese of Raleigh’s guidelines at the time the sanctuary was built. It is visible, but apart from the main sanctuary. This is where the Reserved Eucharist is placed in the tabernacle. It also serves as a place for private prayer and adoration.

The tabernacle is attached to the rear wall of the chapel, but was designed to have the appearance of floating in space. Narrow, amber-colored windows are on the sides of the taber- nacle so it is bathed in a golden light.

The baptismal font also designed by Br. Frank Kacmarcik, Liturgical Design Consultant. The windows of the sanctuary were designed by a German artist. The

panes are diamond-shaped with reamy decorations and the people give color Brother Frank’s preference was in (pronounced ree-mee) glass. The to the walls.” The design of the new keeping with that of the Church, which glass has a wavy, irregular surface church echoes the parish’s belief that was to have baptisms at the entrance and has strands of gold woven through when we gather to pray, Christ is of the church because when you are them, which allows the warm mottled present in each one of us. The floors baptized you enter into the new faith sunlight to pass through. are sloped, the altar raised, no pillars community as you would also enter block people’s vision, all so we can If you look back towards the entrance the church. see the members of the community. doors, let your gaze rise up high. See “But you know,” Pat says, “when our rose window? It has a simple “Frank made sure the columns and the Frank came back later, when the new design like the rest of our sanctuary pews were positioned so that they sanctuary was finished, and he saw a and is made of the same reamy glass would not block anybody’s view of as the windows.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 39 Parish History 1982-2012 The Stations of the Cross are along dedication candles are there.” Look square opening with the narrow slot the walls of the side wings. Walk over more closely and you will see squares below. You will see the “slot” of the and peek at them up close. They were with recessed crosses below the keyhole in several other places. cast in sand and bronzed by sculptor candles. Those are the Dedication From where you are, take another look Gerald Bonnette. They tell the story of Crosses. at the baptismal font. Look at the Christ’s passion graphically, and their “When Bishop Gossman was here for design. Do you see the “slot” that is in smaller size invites one to come close. the dedication of our sanctuary, he the upper font and at the candle? This Bonnette also designed the proces- rubbed sacred chrism over the surface is repeated in the water font in the sional cross, one of the items of transi- of the altar to consecrate it. Then Daily Chapel, the third piece designed tion from the original sanctuary. These Father English, the first pastor, went by Frank Kacmarcik for Holy Name “items of transition” were carried in to each of these four columns; he took Province. Take a look at it sometime. from the first, small church the chrism; and he blessed the You’ll see the keyhole just like at the to the new one. They were symboli- crosses because the weight of the font in the sanctuary. cally the roots that anchored our faith community in our new home.

Do you need to rest a spell? Sit for a moment on one of the pews. The red oak benches, similar in finish and style to those at Mepkin Abbey near Charleston, South Carolina, were fabricated by Ray Brooks of Minne- sota. “Mr. Brooks had been carrying out the designs of Brother Frank for over 35 years when he designed our benches,” Pat says. “They may not be the softest when we sit for long celebrations, but they are lovely.”

While you are resting, note the statues of St. Francis of Assisi and the Blessed & Christ Child. They were carved in Asheville, North Carolina by native artist Mark Stromm. These were Mark’s first statues of Our stations of the cross, created by Gerald Bonnette, invite one to come closer. such large proportions. He loved working on them and felt he grew in church rests on them. We Catholics Now look at the ambry mounted on his own faith as he created these have such beautiful rituals.” the wall just outside the Reserved pieces for us. The statues were Eucharist chapel. This is where the designed to be accessible to all, One last detail to notice on our tour is sacred oils used for sacraments are including children. The height of the Frank Kacmarcik’s artistic designs that kept. Look at the design. Now look base was carefully considered so that are repeated over and over. Stand at at the altar. Do you see the design the sight-line from the statues would the doorway of the Reserved Eucharist repetition of the many legs? It’s the go directly to most of its viewers. Chapel. And look at the Resurrection same as we saw in the table in the Cross and then look at the door of the Originally there were no candles Gathering Space. tabernacle. You’ll notice the design placed by the statues in the sanctuary. repetition of the cross and the jewels. Frank’s artistic design repetitions, like There were candles, though, if you the continuous brick walkways, remind look closely. There are four dedication How about the altar in the Memorial us that all of our faith life is one jour- candles, one on each of the four col- Garden? Remember looking at the ney. You cannot separate life and umns on the walls surrounding the design of the legs when you were death and resurrection. They are all altar area. standing in front of the altar. If you are one. This is one of the great truths of still in the doorway of the Reserved “You see the four columns they are our faith, engraved into our souls and Eucharist Chapel, look at the “window” on?” Pat asks. “Now look up and see symbolized in our sacred spaces. in front of the tabernacle. You’ll see where those columns go. The weight the same design. Frank Kacmarcik of the roof over the altar is resting on called this his “keyhole” design - the those four columns. That is why the

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 40 Parish History 1982-2012 Come, let us walk in the light of the Lord. – 2:5

he lighted cross over the lantern was called a Crux Gemata (jeweled cross) by Brother Frank Kacmarcik who designed it. The jewels are the brass designs on each arm which represent the nail wounds of Christ. Ours is a cross of victory, symbolizing the Resurrec- tion, Christ’s victory over death. The globe beneath the cross represents the earth over which the cross stands victorious.

The Memorial Garden is a place for the remains of those we love and reminds us of the mystery of life and death and resurrection, just as the liturgy of the Eucharist reminds of the life, death and rising of Jesus. The word columbarium comes from the word for dove house. The dove has always been a symbol of the Holy Spirit, the giver of life. In Europe, these nesting places were often built near cemeteries. The cooing of the doves, which were heard day and night, reminded those who grieved that a loved one was buried there and, at the same time, was alive in the Spirit. In years past, cemeteries were often located on church grounds, many built directly along the path worshippers followed on their way into the church. This practice reflects a deep theological truth which links both Baptism and the Eucharist. Baptism is a symbol of birth into the life, death, and ; the Eucharist is the meal for life’s journey. The believer, coming to church, literally comes from death to life, comes through our Memorial Garden and Columbarium to the waters of Baptism and the table of the Eucharist.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 41 Parish History 1982-2012 Many Ministries

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 42 Parish History 1982-2012 ioners came forth with their ideas, their Under Gene's leadership, the choir Many Ministries enthusiasm and their considerable recorded its first CD, titled “Surely the A Look at Some of the Ministries in the gifts. Father David was there to guide Presence”. It included all those who Parish after 30 Years and support, to create a culture for lay sang in St. Francis' choirs over the leadership. years. A second CD, “All Are Father English started the rich tradition Welcome”, was recorded for the of founding ministries at St. Francis 25th anniversary of the parish. when he rattled off “headlines” of the A People Who Pray Together committees the parish needed to build Judy Barton, long time parishioner and One of the earliest ministries to begin choir member, says, “Gene developed community. The enthusiasm of parish- at St. Francis was the Liturgy Commit- ioners to create and be involved in the a wonderful music ministry with 5 tee. It began with Father English's active choirs, a flock of musicians, assortment of ministries available at asking one person in his living room to St. Francis became infectious. children's choir camps, concerts, and begin the committee. Every week, the development of beautiful liturgies.” To count the number of ministries just before the beginning of a liturgy, at St. Francis today would be an Father English asked those present to In 2010, Gene retired and Jim Wahl arduous task. The ministries be eucharistic ministers and lectors. followed building on the foundation number around 100. Volunteers led the small congregation Gene laid.

“Isn't that something?” Father English in song. We have come a long way says. “Franciscans overwhelm me, since those days. St. Francis now has they simply overwhelm me. You tell 17 liturgical committees responsible for A People Who Play Together them that a Jesuit said so!” How did the liturgical needs of our parish. It was apparent from the very we grow from a handful of committees From Eucharistic Ministers to Funeral beginning of St. Francis of Assisi to about 100 ministries? Read on for Greeters, from Parking Ministry to that forming community was important. the history and highlights of some of Lectors, from Choirs to Deaf Ministry, Monsignor Lewis knew that he should our ministries, then and now. all have a role in creating liturgies start bringing people together before where God's people come together for there was a pastor, before there was worship and go forth to serve others. a church. So he began with our gathering to worship together, the A People Came Forth One liturgical ministry with a rich and start of our faith community. Whether Jesuit or Franciscan, there is varied history is the music ministry. one common thread that has always We prayed together, but we also When Sunday masses were held in existed at St. Francis that makes for a played together. Father English had Lynn Road School, Frank Casey rich life in ministries. That thread is lay social gatherings often to help his volunteered to take on the role of the empowerment. It was the lay people young parish form roots. There were Church's first choir director. His wife, in Northwest Wake County who dinner and theatre nights, the first daughter and about 10 others made approached Bishop Gossman about Parish Picnics, receptions, and more. forming a new parish and it was the lay up the first choir. That was the beginning. St. Francis people who approached Holy Name As the years passed, the choir grew now has a Community Center that Province about Franciscans coming to under the skilled direction of several welcomes parishioners to basketball, St. Francis of Assisi. Our parishioners others, including Jim Emory, Val volleyball, the Assisi Café, sing-alongs, have always been bold and creative, Parker, Jim Smith, Tom Carawan and Seniors' luncheons and games. ready for new beginnings. (who was our first music minister as The Parish Picnic continues each year a full-time employee), Joanne Wines, When Father English began our little as Francis Fest. There are Dinner Joyce Paxton, and Nan Dickman. In parish, he wanted everyone to be a Groups, Moms, Pops & Tots, Bridge 1992, Gene Pipas, long-time director part of building our faith community. Clubs, teen gatherings, and more. at St. Raphael's Parish, bestowed And everyone was anxious to do so. Other organizations, such as Boy his gifts of music and spirit upon There was an atmosphere that Scouts, Girl Scouts and Knights of St. Francis to become St. Francis' Mu- welcomed new ideas and initiatives. Columbus, also find a home with sic Minister. Gene remembered well us and serve our parish well. Our When Father David became the first when the announcement was made at parishioners need little reason to Franciscan pastor, he brought with him St. Raphael's that our parish was to be join together for fun. We do it well. the mission of Holy Name Province. formed. He remembered the enthusi-

Empowering the laity was important asm Father English generated. and no person excelled at bringing When he joined us, he felt at home forth the gifts of the parishioners as at St. Francis and led the choirs for

Father David. There was an explosion 18 years. in the number of ministries as parish- The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 43 Parish History 1982-2012 A People Who Care Together ministries. Several have become have broken down social barriers and As Catholic Christians, we are called independent non-profit organizations stigmas. They proclaim that we are all to reach out to those in need, to serve serving the needs of our community brothers and sisters and we are called as Jesus served. At St. Francis, social and beyond. Jeanne Tedrow began to care for one another. justice ministries began with the Social Passage Home; Gail Phares began Concerns Committee. Early parishion- the Carolina Interfaith Taskforce on St. Francis was the first parish in the ers supported prison ministry, Respect Central America (CITCA) and Deb Diocese of Raleigh to hire a lay staff Life movements, Catholic Parish Royals-Mizerk created Justice Theater member to direct social justice minis- Outreach and other efforts in the Project. These organizations have won tries. Paul Amrhein was that director. community to care for God's children. much civic praise for their good works. He did much to advance parishioner They have also been arenas for ecu- understanding of the social justice These early beginnings helped menical work as we join with other teachings of the Catholic Church and prepare our young parish for what has churches in ministry. the spirituality of answering God's call continued to be a call to justice and to care for others. Megan Nerz peace. One event in particular riveted CITCA was the springboard for followed and created the Franciscan our attention to answering God's call. another significant outreach ministry at Coalition for Justice and Peace. In 1986, one of our young parishion- St. Francis. In 1993, our parish joined ers, Jeff Meyer, was accused of the international Sister Parish organi- As the Peace and Justice Ministries murder. He was convicted in 1988. zation and began a relationship with care for those beyond our doors, the Las Margaritas Parish in Guatemala. Pastoral Ministries address the needs Jeff's family is a good and , The Sister Parish mission is to pro- of our parishioners. As with other founding members of St. Francis. The mote social justice worldwide. Since areas, often these ministries came to parish responded immediately. Father our Sister Parish Ministry began, about life when parishioners brought forth English reached out not only to Jeff 20 delegations of parishioners have creative ideas for putting their faith into and his family; he also visited the fam- traveled from St. Francis to Las Mar- action. They are present to parishion- ily of the victims. He told them all we garitas. There have also been South ers preparing for marriage, the arrival would pray for them in their suffering. to North delegations for Las Margaritas of a baby, illness and death, divorce The next Sunday, St. Francis included parishioners who have visited us. and unemployment. They celebrate Jeff Meyer and his victims in the good times and walk with those experi- Prayer of the Faithful. Father English The Sister Parish Ministry has made encing difficult sorrow and struggles. promised we would continue to pray great strides in advocacy for water, for them as long as Jeff was in prison. land and women's rights. They have Those difficult times included the also advanced medical care and category 4 tornado that made its long Each of our Franciscan friars since education in the region. It is important path through many neighborhoods in those days has continued to minister to understand, though, that this is not our parish. Just after Thanksgiving in to Jeff and other prisoners. As a a one-way street with St. Francis 1988, the storm left many in the parish, we have fought for reform of providing for the material needs of Raleigh area with extensive damage to the death penalty and have created those less fortunate. The sister parish their homes. Father David and many a Pen Pal Ministry of parishioners who relationship is very much a sharing parishioners joined together in clearing regularly correspond with prisoners. of faith and spirituality between our debris and downed trees from homes Our friars still visit prisoners on a two cultures. Delegates return to and yards. Other parishioners worked regular basis. St. Francis amazed that they have with The Red Cross and other organi- zations bringing assistance and care. Jeff, too, has found a ministry within received more than they have given. the prison walls. Through his witness, These far-reaching ministries are but Similarly, Hurricane Fran in Septem- many prisoners were baptized and a few of the social justice ministries at ber, 1996 and a severe ice storm in confirmed in prison by Bishop Joseph St. Francis. The Parish has often led December, 2002 left parishioners with Gossman. Jeff was the sponsor for the way in outreach. At a time when power outages, fallen trees and many of them. He currently continues AIDS was poorly understood and home damage. Two call lines were to be a part of a bible study group on much feared, parishioners formed the established at St. Francis – one if you death row. needed help and the other if you were AIDS Care Team in 1993. In 2004, it If Prison Ministry has flourished as an was presented with the Governor's offering help to others. The outpouring was incredible. outreach ministry, it is not alone. Award for outstanding service in North With the Franciscans, social justice Carolina. In addition to serving victims Those natural catastrophes brought ministries found new and fertile of AIDS, this ministry also serves immediate and widespread hardships, ground. Parishioners came with their parishioners in witnessing God's call to but many more families have been hurt ideas and these blossomed into active reach out to the least among us. They by illness and death, unemployment,

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 44 Parish History 1982-2012 abuse, divorce, and other difficulties. idea and did all the leg work to make it dynamic web site and social media. St. Francis has opened its arms to all. happen. That was back in 1991, Facilities and maintenance schedules shortly after Clare Hall (originally space for all the hundreds of events called The Parish Center) was built and programs and makes sure all is in with the intention of its being an edu- working order. Stewardship reminds A People Who Form Their Faith cation building. Little did we know that us of our call to receive God’s gifts Together other education buildings would soon graciously, nurture them responsibly, One of the first committees created in be in our future. share them in love and justice, and Father English's living room was the stand accountable before the Lord. With the beginning of a new century as Education Committee. From its earli- Administration and Finance sees to a backdrop, St. Francis of Assisi had est beginnings of meeting in homes, the business issues of our large faith its own new beginning in the year 2000 nearby churches, and every nook and community. when it first opened the doors of The cranny of the original church, the faith Franciscan School. With Father Dan formation of our children, our youth and our adults has been of great as pastor, the children and youth now had more than one avenue for faith A People Who Keep Growing importance. The Catholic Community of St. Francis formation at St. Francis. The school Like most Catholic churches at the has grown consistently over the years of Assisi. This is who we are at the time, religious education in our early in both numbers and spirituality. young age of 30 years. We have done years was centered primarily on the much in that short span of time. But children and teens. Rich programs this story will be outdated very soon. We are a faith community that keeps were offered with hands-on activities A People Who Tend to Business that made faith come alive. The growing and evolving. St. Francis is a Together participants and the volunteers rolling stone that gathers no moss. My, how we have grown over the grew in number each year. We are continually reborn as new years. That small group of families and vibrant followers of Christ. It is a Formation for adults initially included who met in the Foglias’ living room certainty that we shall find and create Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults with Bishop Gossman had no idea new ways to serve God and all God’s (RCIA) and sessions for returning what they were starting. From a little people. This is our blessing. Catholics who had been away from parish church built on 8 acres of land The Church. Classes for Preparation on Leesville Road, St. Francis of Assisi for Baptism and Marriage rounded out now has grown to 14 buildings located the offerings. on about 35 acres. Visitors often compare St. Francis to a small Shortly after Father David arrived, he college campus. created the Outstanding Theologian Series for adults. It was the beginning A lot of good work happens in these of regular formation opportunities for buildings. The Parish Operations the ordinary parishioner who wanted to group helps to make it happen. Of the learn about contemporary Catholic original committees formed with the teaching. For many, it was the first start of the parish, the Pastor’s Advi- time their theology had been awak- sory Committee, the Parish Building ened since grade school or high Committee and the Finance Commit- school. Many misconceptions about tee all assisted with the business our faith were dispelled with each matters of St. Francis. The first lay visiting theologian. We had a lot of employee was Judy Shiel, the Parish church teaching to catch up on. Administrator. Judy stayed busy with everything from registering new If we move forward to the current day, parishioners to paying bills to reserving the original Director of Religious rooms for our many groups and all the Education position has been replaced other day-to-day business that came with a large, professional team in along. the Evangelization and Education Ministries. Along the way, the St. From those humble beginnings, there Francis of Assisi Preschool (originally is now a team of staff members and called the Early Childhood Learning many ministries and volunteers who Center) was created, you guessed it, make sure St. Francis of Assisi is a when a volunteer came up with the well-run parish. Communications now include our printed bulletin as well as a The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 45 Parish History 1982-2012 Parishioners Remember A Look Back

Author’s Note: The following is a compilation of miscellaneous memories from parishioners who responded to my call for contributions this historical narrative. Some wrote to me, others I recorded as we spoke together, and still other accounts are public speeches that I have transcribed.

Bishop Joseph Gossman MaryLou Bender Bob Dietz An Interview: Early assignments—a memory This church provides many from the very early days fond memories. Would you have done anything different with regard to how St. Francis Father English had asked me to be on We first arrived at the little St. Francis of Assisi was founded? the Parish Council. So I went to the door, back in 1984, and thought “what

No, because the way St. Francis was meeting. I guess they were giving out a wonderful little community”. The founded is generally the way parishes assignments for what they would do, church was small but we grew to like it are founded. Either the local pastor or and we talked about all different kinds just that way. My sons were two and – as in this case – the people bring of things. Then, on the way out I four at that time, so we met many new forth the need. And it is still done happened to be walking beside families, who over the years became Father English. some of our closest friends—and to this way. this day still are! What effect has the founding of He said, “I want you to take over the St. Francis had on the Diocese of Liturgy Committee.” I became an usher and continued to do so for the next 17 years. I enjoyed Raleigh? I looked at him as if he had lost his this ministry because it gave me an mind, and I said, “Father, look, I’ve The outreach of St. Francis of Assisi opportunity to welcome people and gone to Catholic schools all my life—I has been wonderful, beginning with meet new friends. Father English and then expanding mean all the way through school I went tremendously. St. Francis, from the to Catholic school. I got married in the It always amazed me to see the bless- very beginning, has been very Catholic Church, and I am willing to do ings we enjoyed at St. Francis by the conscious of reaching out to the anything I can around here. But, Fa- various priests who led our community. community. The people of St. Francis ther, I don’t know a thing about liturgy.” They were, and currently are, some wonderful Christians. have been very much aware that they And he said, “Don’t worry. I’ll tell you are blessed with resources much what to do.” As our children and many others have beyond most of our parishes. And they grown up, gone to college, and moved That was so funny and every time I have been so very generous in reach- on with their lives, so have many of our think about that I laugh. He must have ing out to others that many of the good church family friends. Although I have been really desperate to have made outreach programs that have been since moved to Cary, I still continue to that suggestion. done in the diocese have, if not started socialize with many of our St. Francis by St. Francis, have been given life at But, I didn’t last very long. He finally friends and continue to drive almost 30 St. Francis. And that is something that found somebody who knew what he minutes to my favorite church—the St. Francis can be very proud of. It is was doing. small church that welcomed me in a not a rich parish that is just sitting big way. there. St. Francis is a parish that is very conscious of sharing. Thanks for the memories.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 46 Parish History 1982-2012 Betty Camp When they found out that he was The Spirit of St. Francis Speaking to an audience of coming to Raleigh and starting a new By Patricia Anne Dilger St. Francis’ more seasoned parish, they had said, “Jim, what can parishioners, March 2007 we do for you?” And he said, “Well…” How has the spirit of St. Francis and and thought and thought, and said, my involvement inspired me to live the I moved here in January of 1983, and “Well, you know, we don’t have a ? I recall the dedication of the original rectory.” So they said, we’ll give you a hundred thousand dollars for a rectory. St. Francis of Assisi Parish inspires church. me to work together with others. If My son led a procession on Leesville On that day we had cleaned up the someone needs help, all of the people Road, carrying a banner. Of course, grounds, he said, “Coming home on pitch in and help them out. Sometimes Bishop Gossman was there and I the train I thought, ‘I wish I had asked when we do this, it makes me remem- for a whole new building!’” ber the saint, Francis. It also makes remember him rubbing the altar with oil; I remember a lot of that, a lot of So, that was Father English. me think of God and Jesus. I like our arm work. patron saint, St. Francis. He was kind I would like to say, in closing, that I and gentle just like the people in this And, in preparation for that day, Father have been a Catholic for nearly 70 parish. The church follows Jesus English had asked people to ring a years, and I have lived up and down Christ and as a group we act like bell, that somewhere in the old church the east coast—New Jersey three St. Francis did. at some point in the dedication of the times, Virginia, Baltimore, here. I’ve church you would ring a bell. At mass I learn a lot from Father Jim’s, gone to Catholic churches all my life. Father Dan’s, and Father Mark’s read- Well, I didn’t have any old dinner bell There is nothing like this parish. ings. I like it when they make funny to ring, so I don’t know that the Camps remarks to get their point across. I love brought one, but a lot of people did. I thought a Catholic church was a Catholic church, and you went to the going to mass on Sundays. I get to And at some point during that sing in the choir, too! ceremony there was ringing of nearest one to you, and that would bells and it was quite memorable. be that. But there is a special spirit Being a child, I feel really special to be about St. Francis, and I think every a part of the people (the church!). I remember certain things about Father one of you in here has probably St. Francis Church really helps kids English, one of which was right around experienced it. like me learn about God and Jesus. the time the church was being built. Of Faith Formation helps us learn a lot. course there were a lot of pine trees There are lots of activities for children that had recently been bulldozed. One like: the youth choir with Mr. Gene and Sunday, he came out and said that it Nancy Dilger Mrs. Pam; Back to the Time of Christ looked just like a great big chocolate My mother-in-law was cleaning out her when we get to act out the life of pudding out there. But the church drawers and just sent this “blast from Jesus; Faith Formation classes with got built and he, I believe, had the the past”. On the last Sunday that we, my friends; and many more activities mortgage paid off in five years. as a community, celebrated mass in all year long. And there’s another thing about Father the old church, various parishioners were invited to offer their reflections on Every day I look forward to the next English, from when we were first here. season in the church year, especially He, of course, had volunteers and the following prompt: How has the spirit of St. Francis and my involve- Advent! We have a very exciting Ad- asked for clean-up days. I remember vent Festival. My family and I make an one Saturday being out there and ment inspired me to live the Gospel? These witnesses were part of the Advent wreath. We bring it home and picking up rocks in front of where the that’s like bringing home a small part rectory used to be before it was bridging celebration that took place to ease our letting go of the old and of the church. We light a candle for moved. Afterwards, he invited the every Sunday during Advent at dinner workers inside. And when I went inside encourage embracing the new. Attached is the delivery that our time. I think that St. Francis of Assisi there was a plaque in the entranceway has helped me understand the sea- and on it were the names of the couple daughter, Tricia, gave at the age of 10. sons of the church year. who had donated the money for the rectory. The people’s last name was I think St. Francis of Assisi has really Doty and they were from somewhere inspired me to live the Gospel! When I up about New York City. They were live the Gospel, I feel good inside! friends of his.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 47 Parish History 1982-2012 Ron Doggett population was Catholic in North friends. Honestly, after our church was Speaking to an audience of Carolina, and they wondered if we completed, the minister came back St. Francis’s more seasoned could really undertake this venture. and preached one day for us. It was a parishioners, March 2007 But, indeed, we would and we could. great event. It was shortly after that that we got a I remember the little home we had new pastor. I know you’re asking why a guy my across the street for Father, where age who has a hard time remembering Father English came to us, another he used to live, where he held mass where he parked his car in the parking newness to our community, a outside the house… hot, sticky, insects lot is going to remember back 25 Jesuit coming to our parish. What we were fanning away as we were years. Well, I remember many things a wonderful man he was, and what trying to keep cool, standing in that have already been shared with dreams he had. knee-deep pine straw. But it was an you. How well I remember, actually 27 intimate, warm mass, out there under We had about 150 families as I recall years ago, when I was on the Finance the pine trees. Council at St. Raphael’s and Monsi- and we were saying mass in the Lynn gnor Lewis, at that time Reverend Road School. I can’t help remember so Many of you, as I do, remember his “I Lewis, indicated we had new plans well Father English’s story of how we had a baby” homily. The baby was, of that we needed to consider. got the use of the little Baptist church course, the recently completed church, where we also had mass. and he said, “This is my baby; I love it, I scratched my head because I had and we love it, and it’s wonderful…” Without all the details of this, you have just finished my pledge to St. Raph- and so forth. I can’t embellish his to remember again that there were not ael’s building. He said, “We are going remarks enough. He was really too many Catholics in the community to form a new parish and we’re going excited about it. to need some help. We’re going to at the time. I was always struck by one help them and that means financially. of the things I was asked when we With Father English’s eventual depar- Therefore, I’ll need the help of the moved here in 1970. ture, many of us wondered how we would ever find someone to replace Finance Committee and I’ll need your One of the first questions people this great guy, but we were blessed personal support again.” asked me was, “Where you from?” with the arrival of a Franciscan Friar, They talked like that. So, indeed, I did eventually sign over Father David McBriar. He was terrific. another pledge. And it was with an I said, “Well, I’m from Minnesota, We loved his homilies, his enthusiasm energetic group of people on the moving here from Philadelphia.” Finance Council that we started for education, for outreach, beginning our efforts. And then they said, “Where do you go a lot of social activities, the liturgy, to church?” music, choir… a lot of things. Under I can remember Sam Jordan, Jerry his leadership, we grew. We grew I said, “Well, I go to St. Raphael’s. Finnen, Rudy Frye, and perhaps some rapidly, and we launched another I’m Catholic.” “Oh.” of you here today who joined in the building campaign because we had effort to get the campaign going. Anyway, Father English located the to expand this place. minister of the little Baptist church, One of the first things we did was to go The momentum continued. Demands knocked on his door, and said, “Hello, out and look at the site where this new for expanding our facility and including I’m Father English. We’re starting church was going to be. One of our more educational facilities in the new a new Catholic church here in the first expressions was, “Boy, this is church, Father David supported all of community, and we would like to really out in the sticks. It’s a long those and other growth plans. And he borrow your church to hold mass.” ways away.” developed the staff we have today. There was this sudden gap in his jaw But it was on beautiful wooded Father Dan came on, Father Mark as he acknowledged Father English, acreage and how beautiful it is today. came on, and back at that time, I think but he said, “Well, come in. We’ll talk I still had a little color in my hair… Shortly after that, after we got our about it.” things together and got the campaign Father Mark actually had some hair working, we learned a lot about So he went in, talked about it, and had at that time, I think. an agreement to use the church where ourselves and a lot about Catholics How well I remember the many, many we held mass in the little chapel, as in the community. meetings we had to acquire land, facil- many of you have been there, a ity plans for the new church, new There were some who doubted the charming place. And it was after a school, remodeling of the rectory. We need for what we were addressing. number of masses that took place, conducted another capital campaign After all, we were still a missionary that I guess Father English and the and Father Mark was able to convince , around only two percent of the minister actually became pretty good my wife to be honorary chair for that, I The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 48 Parish History 1982-2012 guess, and he wishes Jeanette was have to do that”, his message fell very The Young Adult group, complete back again, I think. They had such a powerfully on the congregation. with sing-alongs, faith sharing, and good time and success with it. And, potlucks, filled our social needs with And the other famous homily was here we are today. the foundation of life-long friendships. about the Queen of England. Those are just a few of the memories The Parenting for Peace and Justice He said the queen of England was after 25 years. A lot of doers, a lot of group guided and encouraged us in coming to the United States. And, she believers, a lot of great lovers of their our desire to be purposeful about our was coming to St. Francis. faith in the Catholic community. parenting. And our Small Church Every one of us sat up and listened. Community (Renew Group) challenged I have enjoyed being a part of this par- us to both share and live out our faith. ish for all those years. I have enjoyed He stood up there, looked straight at funding it and seeing my children bap- us, and said, “Yes, we were going to Each of these wonderful groups, tized, my grandchildren go to school have to get a committee together, as well as the ones we have more here, and seeing old friends like you we’re going to have to clean the recently become a part of, has a continue to participate in all that goes church, we are going to have to get common thread that has kept us on in this parish under the leadership everything ready so when the Queen loving our church home: Community. of Father Mark, and Bob, and Jim, and comes, it’ll all be perfect.” Thank you, St. Francis of Assisi. Bill, and David, and Dan. Everybody got all excited, thinking,

Thank you. “Yes, we have to get ready for the queen.” Art Kilmartin Speaking to an audience of And then, after he got us all on board, Don Donaghy St. Francis’s more seasoned Father English said, “Well, you know, parishioners, March 27 Serendipity—an impromptu Jesus comes every week. Why meeting and memory shouldn’t we prepare for Jesus and When Father English first started God the same way as if the queen Father English’s homilies were superb. saying mass at Lynn Road School, were coming?” my ten-year-old son, my youngest boy, Oh, mama. You never knew the first sentence that would come out of his Father English would always keep you was with us. Father English came mouth; he would shock you. He would thinking. I used to love his homilies. over, grabbed him by the arm, and said, “I need an altar server.” just shock you. There were two most They were fantastic. I give credit to our memorable homilies that I remember. current friars; they are wonderful, too. My boy looked at him, astounded, But Father English has a special place It was either during the first or second because I don’t think he even knew in my heart for those homilies. They what an altar server was. time my wife, Terri, and I had visited WOWed us. the church that Father English got up So he took my son up to the altar. and gave one of his famous homilies, “I’ll tell you everything you need to “If I Were ”. Sonia Kane know; just stand here, right next to me.” And he did. He went on for almost 10 minutes Thank you, St. Francis of Assisi saying things like, “If I were Pope, After we heard the – the first you wouldn’t have to go to church on When I walked through the doors of we had heard by Father English – my Sunday, you wouldn’t have to go to St. Francis eighteen years ago with my son came back. confession, you wouldn’t have to do husband and one-year-old son, we this…” and we were all sitting there immediately felt that we had come I said to him, “Well, how did you like that?” thinking, “What is this priest doing, home. Having just moved to Raleigh, why is he saying this?” we began to build our extended family He said, “Oh, that was fun.” in this welcoming community. But after he shocked us all, he hit the I said, “How did you like the sermon?” high note by saying, “You should go to The challenging homilies of Father He said, “This guy’s really good.” church because you want to go to David McBriar and the gentleness of church, not because you have to go to Father Bob Hudak drew us to mass. So that’s when we started coming to church. You should confess your sins The joyful spirit of Mary Morch, the St. Francis, and I’m very happy we because you want to confess your made that choice. youth minister at the time, drew us to sins, not because you have to.” work as leaders in the high school So after he had set us all up with “you I was a founding member of the new Awareness groups and on retreats. church at Lourdes when it was built don’t have to do this and you don’t to St. Francis, so I’ve been

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 49 Parish History 1982-2012 around a long time—since 1965. Matt Morrow Kathleen Riordan We’ve really enjoyed St. Francis My special memory of My memories of immensely. Thank you. St. Francis of Assisi St. Francis of Assisi

I am 15 years old, I’m a freshman at My husband, Stu, and I joined St. Anne E. Laethem Ravenscroft School, and I have been a Francis in August 1983 right after we My reflections on member of the Music Ministry at St. moved from New York. I was 26, he St. Francis of Assisi Francis for almost five years. was 33, and we had no children. My family started coming to St. Francis Father English was the pastor and the My first encounter with St. Francis was when I was five years old, and congregation had just moved into the in April 2005, when I opened the eventually we joined the church and new church. We were founding phone book and looked under I attended The Franciscan School members and our names are on the C for Church. [TFS]. When we came to St. Francis plaque in the Founders’ Room. for mass, particularly in the current Not knowing anyone in North Raleigh Since then, we had three sons, all sanctuary, we would sit near the music or my way around, as a newcomer to baptized at St. Francis, who are now and choir area. I remember watching the area, I thought that was a logical 15, 18, and 20 years old. Stu passed Mr. Gene and the other musicians and place to begin searching for a church. away suddenly in 1999 of a heart wishing that someday I could be part attack and is buried in the Columbar- The ad in the phonebook had a brief of that group. At the time, I was taking ium. So, St. Francis has definitely description and directions, so I tore it drum lessons, and I hoped that there been with my family through the out one Sunday morning and decided would someday be a chance for a good times and the bad. to see what St. Francis had to offer. drummer to play at mass. When I first joined St. Francis, I I was impressed with the church from While attending TFS, in addition to became involved in the Ark Shelter the beginning, but it was not until I drums, I also started studying the and met wonderful folks, like Marianne volunteered to be an RCIA volunteer trumpet. Mr. Gene came to our band Williams and Nancy Dilger, who are that I felt at home. class one day and talked to us about still active in St. Francis. Over the joining the Music Ministry. I couldn’t It was through that experience that I years my husband and I both taught wait for the first rehearsal. I started met Brother George and Julie Weber. Faith Formation classes. playing trumpet with the Music Ministry The two of them could not have been at Saturday night mass in October In the first church, I can remember the better suited to be the first faces that 2001. I was in fifth grade at the time. current rectory was attached to the those inquiring about the Catholic faith I continued on the trumpet at 5:30 Sat- church, and then it was later moved to meet. urday mass, and then about a year or its current location. Through my experience as a sponsor, so later, Mr. Gene got a set of electric I remember Father Bob Hudak, who I developed a greater appreciation of drums and asked me to debut them at was affectionately called Father my Catholic faith and a better under- mass. I was so excited! Hunk-a-! And Father David, of standing of St. Francis and its mission. That summer, we practiced together course, is was always near and dear to I love St. Francis because of the almost every day, and I played the everyone’s hearts. And then there was mission statement and, specifically, drums at two or three masses almost Father Kevin and Brother Patrick and how I see the members living out that every weekend. Now I get to play both (another) Father Bob—we have had mission every week. trumpet and drums at Saturday night quite a portfolio of priests leading up to mass and on special occasions. I have Fathers Bill, Mark, and Ray. been honored to play at the Confirma- In my boys’ elementary years, Vaca- tion Mass for the past three years, and tion Bible School was always a big was very honored to play at a special event. Barbara Goff was always a big mass in honor of Bishop Gossman last contributor to those. And the Harvest year at Our Lady of Lourdes. Moon Festival was also a big tradi- I love the Music Ministry at St. Francis tion—my boys loved the cake walk. and playing with Mr. Gene. This is a Our family used to take Alice very important part of my life, and even Peterman to church through the Trans- after I graduate high school and am portation Ministry. She was a wonder- gone off to college, I plan to continue ful lady, and it was a gift to meet her. playing music at mass wherever I am. Thank you.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 50 Parish History 1982-2012

She had the sharpest mind and always As we walked out into the garden the celebration of St. Francis’s feast remembered exactly which of my sons afterward and saw the carefully tended day and an outdoor mass and family was involved in certain activities. Alice roses and the peaceful water fountain, picnic! was very frail, but when my husband I felt a sense of tranquility and beauty. Having arrived late and not dressed for died, she was the first person to show Within a month we read a bulletin a picnic, everyone knew we were new up at the wake. And when Alice died note from Father David McBriar that to the area. Instantly we were offered the following year, Tim was asked to specifically included gays and lesbians seats on blankets. After mass many be the cross bearer at her funeral. in the parish’s definition of “family”, people welcomed us and invited our and I knew we had found our home. Father Mark was special to my young- family to stay and share their family’s est son, Brian, when my husband died. Thirteen years later, we continue to picnic. Brian had only just turned eight. He come over at least once or twice a To this day the much larger St. Francis had this need to continue to talk to his week from our West Raleigh home. community still offers a warm welcome dad, so he would write letters and give (Of course, these days with I-540, it’s to all who visit, whether for the first them to Father Mark for ‘delivery’. a much quicker trip than it used to be time or as a parishioners for the past going up Glenwood Avenue!) Through St. Francis, we have met a 22 years. core group of families who have stood We feel blessed to have found our by us in friendship and love and sup- community, and we hope to continue port through the years – the Barkers, to be part of it for years to come. Goffs, Mundells, Gallos, Conners, Paul and Marianne Williams Holmeses, Bouchards, and many Friars spark the St. Francis others – and that has been the Mary Tremmel of Assisi engine biggest blessing of St. Francis. My very first memory of St. Francis of Assisi in 1984 We moved to Raleigh in June of 1987. Our first mass at St. Francis happened Chuck Small We moved to Raleigh Friday, to be the weekend that Father Bob Blessed to have found our September 27, 1984, from a small Hudak returned to St. Francis of community at St. Francis of Assisi town in South Carolina. On Saturday, Assisi. Everyone was so happy to while driving around trying to locate a have Bob back. I learned quickly Even before I arrived in Raleigh, I had hardware store at the intersection of why people loved him so much. heard about St. Francis. A good friend Strickland and Leesville Roads, we It was also the first weekend for David of mine, a fellow parishioner at Little noticed a small blue sign that simply McBriar, and so it didn’t take us long to Flower Catholic Church in South Bend, said “St. Francis – 1 Mile.” know that St. Francis was where we Indiana, knew that I was moving to From our house-hunting trips to wanted to be. Just as it is now, the Raleigh in the fall of 1993 to join my Raleigh, we knew the locations of St. parish was welcoming to new people, partner. This friend, a graduate of UNC Raphael and Our Lady of Lourdes. We alive with activity. People like Judy -Chapel Hill, said she thought I’d like were so happy to find a church closer Shiel and Marylynn Kaus were among St. Francis and would find its commu- to our new home. the first people we met. nity welcoming to my partner and me. Driving to church, we learned that Sun- There were also great volunteers like But when I moved here, I thought St. day masses were at 8:30 and 10:30 Sam Jordan, who was on the Finance Francis, way up on Leesville Road, a.m. The next morning we arrived at Committee and directed the building of was a pretty fair hike from where I was 10:15 and discovered that the mass, the Parish Center. There is not a man living off Gorman Street near NC State for that Sunday, had begun at 10. on earth I respect more than Sam. He in West Raleigh. I wondered whether I still serves on the Finance Committee. shouldn’t try other parishes closer to Dressed in our Sunday best, as was David and Megan Nerz have given my apartment. I did, but they were cold the custom in our previous parish, we much to St. Francis over the years and not at all what I was used to at saw most of the 100 families of the through service on the Finance Little Flower. St. Francis community sitting on picnic Committee and Parish Council, as well blankets under the pines—now the Then, about three weeks into living as service to many outreach ministries, playground for the Early Childhood here, I met my partner for mass at St. most recently the Justice Theatre Learning Center. Francis. From the time we walked in Project. and gazed at the wooden beams and That Sunday was a very special day. It We told David McBriar that we wanted heard the music from the Gather hym- was the one-year anniversary of the to get involved in outreach. I served on nal, the same music Little Flower used, dedication of the first church building, the Social Concerns Committee for I felt at home.

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 51 Parish History 1982-2012 five years. During that time we met OUTTAKES “Brother Frank Kacmarcik, the liturgical Jeanne and Jim Tedrow. Jeanne Impromptu stories from those who design consultant hired to design the wanted to start a transitional housing remember interior of the New Church was a program. Matthew House was started very opinionated and outspoken and has grown into Passage Home. “Father English’s gift to us was his true Benedictine monk from St. John’s Abbey in Minnesota. He spared no Jeanne has been recognized as a love for everybody. He truly wanted to one in commenting negatively on the woman of vision in her work with peo- be here, it wasn’t just an assignment. design ideas given by the Parish ple struggling to escape the bonds of He wanted to start a church. He wasn’t Building Committee members. Father poverty in Wake County and so many there to impress anybody but God. He Dan, our pastor, once proposed that families have been served since then. did everything for love of God and love of people. He truly was what he said two additional aisles be added across I remember the tornado that ripped he was; he was genuine, original, and the main nave of the church. Brother through North Raleigh the Sunday highly motivating.” Frank’s immediate comment was that after Thanksgiving in 1988. The St. Jo Finnen, Parishioner if the aisles were added, the church Francis community jumped into action. would resemble a Chicago stock yard I was so proud to be a part of the with little pens between all those extra community that helped each other “For a Jesuit, Father English was a aisles. The aisles were not added.” recover from the disaster. helluva Franciscan!” Julio De La Rosa, Former Staff Member But the friars provided the real spark Don Donaghy, Parishioner to the St. Francis engine.

They challenged us not to be compla- “One of the sad stories of this parish “When we first built the church way out cent in our comfortable North Raleigh was Judy Shiel’s death—what an here on Leesville Road, there was homes because we have brothers and important person she was in the life of nothing but trees. It was very rural. We sisters who need our love and support. the parish. Her funeral was standing knew that a population explosion was heading in this direction though. Fa- The friars connected the gospel to the room only. She was seen as someone ther English used to say that someday action. They are partners with us on who optimized the mission statement people are going to wonder why we this life journey. of the parish. She was so welcoming built this itty-bitty church in the middle to people. She answered the phone of downtown Raleigh.” and did everything. She was Pat Kowite, Coordinator of ever-present and everybody loved her very much.” Finance and Administration

Father David McBriar, Former Pastor

“Father Hudak was a hoot. He would always carry his notes for his sermon on him. So we would all wait for this.... He would get up there to the podium, and he would reach up behind his head, and reach into the hood of his robes, and pull out his notes. Every- body would laugh, everybody knew exactly what he was going to do.” Don Donaghy, Parishioner

The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi 52 Parish History 1982-2012