'

October 30, 1955 L 3mmacufate Jleart ·or ~arg

y soul magnifies t ~ e Ifora, a a my spirit eioices in God f,YS Cl!vieiur. Be­ cause He has regardea e lowliness of His Handmaid, for beliold all gen­ erations shall ca ll me f,les~9id. , (Magn ic t-i;espers)

.J.J.J.9. ~,a4d/jj . %~~uu 11~~ cf. !ZJ. -b u l'tITED STATES OF AMERICA

NO 9385/55

T HIS NO. SHOULD BE PREFIXED TO THE ANSWER August 6, 1955

Very Reverend and dear Brother:

On this j oyous occasion of the Dedication of the Novitiate Building of the Congregation of Alexian Brothers of the Immaculate Conception Province at Gresham, it affords me genuine pleasure to inform you that our Most Holy Father, Pope Pius XII, Has graciously deigned to impart his special Apostolic Benediction. It is the express wish of His Holiness that this Blessing be shared b y all the members of the Congregation as well as by everyone who participates in this memorable event.

While conveying to yqu this August Message of the Sove reign Pontiff, I desire to add my own personal congratula­ tions and good wishes. It is my h eartfelt prayer that thi s Benedict­ ion of the Vicar of Christ will bring with it an abundance of heavenly graces to strengthen the Alexi an Brothers in their noble apostolate of charity which has distinguished them for the many years since their foundation.

With sentiments of es teem and renewed felicita- tions , I remain

Sincerely y ours m Christ, ,y/. 1

Archbishop of Laod1cea Apostolic Delegate

Very Reverend Brother Florian, C. F. A. Prov incial 1200 West B e lden Avenue Chicago 14, Illinois

3 CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF GREEN BAY BOX 65 GREEN BAY. WISCONSIN

August 27, 1955

Brother Florian, C.F.A., Provincial, Congregation of the Alexion Brothers, Chicago, Illinois.

Dear Brother Florian:

It is with great pleasure that I write these words for the booklet to be issued in commemoration of the ceremonies that are to take place at the end of Octo­ ber at your new Novitiate building near Gresham. The great objective of the Alexion Brothers, besides their religious vows and their service to God, is the care of the sick. To this work of service to the sick the Alexion Brothers have been dedicated since their foundation. The Congrega­ tion was established some six hundred years ago, during the visitation of the Black Plague in Europe. Once founded, the Ccngregation has not only grown but ii has persevered faithfully in following its goal of care for the sick. And so it is that even in our diocese this year another institution in charge of the Alex­ ion Brothers, the Alexion Brothers Sanitarium in Oshkosh, Wis., celebrated its Diamond Jubilee of existence. In the example of the Oshkosh Sanitarium, we have proof of the sacrificing labors of the Alexion Brothers. "Caritas Christi urge! nos" "The charity ol Christ presseth us." It is the charity of Christ, exemplified in the care of the physical and spiritual needs of the sick, that sustains the labors and sacrifices of the Alexion Brothers. Any· thing else, outside the supernatural motive and the hope of eternal recom­ pense, would hardly compensate the noble work of the Brothers. It is our sincere hope and prayer that the Novitiate will be blessed with the response of many young men who, hearing the invitation of Christ, will answer the call and join the ranks of the Alexion Brothers. We are happy to have them in our diocese, and we pray God to bless them in their work; to bless the mem­ bers of the Congregation with health, long life, and an abundance of divine grace; and finally, that He will multiply their numbers, so that they may be able to labor even more effectively for the greater glory of God, and the phys­ ical and spiritual good of the patients committed to their care.

With a heartfelt blessing,

Sincerely in Christ,

Bishop of Green Bay

4

~s E_,xce/lencl/ John B. Grellinger Auxiliary Bishop of Green Bay, Wisconsin Consecration

OCTOBER 29, 1955 8:30 A.M. MASS .. DEDICATION OF A CHURCH (Special Commemoration in honor of the Immaculate Heart of Mary) l. PROCESSION Ecce Sacerdos 2. CONSECRATION OF ALTARS His Excellency, The Most Reverend John B. Grellinger, D.D. Auxiliary Bishop of Green Bay, W isconsin, Officiating The Reverend Henry J. Schmitt, Assistant Priest Pastor, Sacred Heart Church, Sherwood, Wisconsin The Reverend Alexander N. Thane, Assistant Priest Pastor, St. Anne's Church, Barring ton, Illinois Former Chaplain, Alexion Brothers Hospital. Chicago, Illinois The Reverend Donald Schneider, Master of Ceremonies Chaplain, St. Elizabeth Hospital. Appleton, Wisconsin. Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Honor Guard 3. BLESSING OF ALT AR CLOTHS AND FITMENTS 4. PONTIFICAL LOW MASS His Excellency, The Most Reverend John B. Grellinger, D.D. Auxiliary Bishop of Green Ba y, Wisconsin, Celebrant 5. CHOIR ...... ALEXIAN BROTHERS OF CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Ecce Sacerdos Litany of the Saints Psalms and Antiphons Ave Verum Corpus (Beginning of Mass) 0 Glorioso Virginum (Offertory) Jesu Salvator Mundi (Benedictus) Ego Sum Panis (Post Communion) March Romaine (Recessional) RELICS O F MARTYRS Main Altar- St. Innocentia and St. Theogenes Blessed Virgin Altar-St. Innocentia and St. Theogenes Saint Joseph Altar- St. Innocentia a nd St. Theogenes 6. DINNER Clergy, Sisters and Brothers in the Brothers' Dining Room Special Guests in the Guest Dining Room * * SUNDAY OCTOBER 30, 1955 8:30 A.M. SOLEMN HIGH MASS The Reverend Andre Sharon, Celebrant Chaplain, Alexion Brothers Novitiate The Reverend Glen E. Sanford, Deacon Pastor, Precious Blood Church, Stephenson, Michigan The Reverend Seraphim Widman, C.P.P.S., Sub-Deacon Chapla in, Alexion Brothers Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri MASS - Missa Alme Pater (Joseph N. Moos) Offertory Motet - Cantate Domino The Alexion Brothers Choir, Chicago, Illinois

7 CONGREGATION OF THE ALEXIAN BROTHERS

OFFICE OF THE RECTOR GENE~AL

SIGNAL MOUNTAIN, TENNESSEE

October 30, 1955

Dear Friends and Benefactors : Today we celebrate in a festive spirit the blessing and dedication of the Alexion Brothers Novitiate. This building, which has been anticipated by the Brothers for many years, today becomes a reality, and in the dedication ceremonies we see opening before us the beginning o[ a new era in the training ::>[ the Alexians. The fundamenta l principles of the religious life, learned during the period of novitiate, will insure the continuation of the charitable works o[ the Alexion Brothers for many years lo come. We give our prayerful thanks to all who helped develop this novitiate, and we express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to all who helped make this new building possible through the generous do­ nation of their time, efforts and money. Lastly, we express our thanks to the members of our own com­ munity who, through their labors and prayers, as­ sisted in the completion of this beautiful edifice. May our works of charity and our prayers bring to each o[ you the everlasting benediction of God's love and may the Immaculate Heart of Mary bless and protect each and everyone of you.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Father Ludolph Sattler, C.F.A. Rector General.

8 BROTHER FLORIAN EBERLE, C.F.A. Provincial of the lrnrnoculote Conception Province

REVEREND ANDRE SHARON Chaplain

BROTHER VULGAN CUNNING, C.F.A. Rector 9 Afexicrn Erothers fioviticrte

::DeJiccction

OCTOBER 30, 1955 3:00 P.M.

1. PROCESSION Ecce Sacerdos

2. BLESSING AND SETTING OF THE CORNERSTONE His Excellency, the Most Reverend Stanislaus V. Bona, D.D., Bishop of Green Bay, Wisconsin The Reverend Clement A. Jagodzinski, Deacon Chaplain, Alexion Brothers Hospital, Chicago, Illinois The Reverend Henry J. Schmitt, Sub-Deacon Pastor, Sacred Hearl Church, Sherwood, Wisconsin Right Reverend Monsignor Chesler A. Ropella, Master of Ceremonies Chancellor, Diocese of Green Bay, Wisconsin Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Honor Guard

3. BLESSING OF THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CHAPEL

4. BLESSING AND DEDICATION OF THE NEW NOVITIATE

5. ADDRESS His Excellency, The Most Reverend Stanislaus V. Bona, D.D. Bishop of Green Bay, Wisconsin

6. SOLEMN BENEDICTION OF THE MOST BLESSED SACRAMENT His Excellency, The Most Reverend Stanislaus V. Bona, D.D., Celebrant The Reverend Clement A. Jagodzinski, Deacon The Reverend Henry J. Schmitt, Sub-Deacon

CHOIR-Alexion Brothers of Chicago, Illinois Te Decit Laus Tantum Ergo Te Deum 7. BUFFET DINNER Clergy, Sisters and Brothers in the Brothers' Dining Room Guests and Friends in the Library of Peters Hall

8. ENTERTAINMENT ...... "The Four Clips" of Green Bay, Wisconsin

OPEN HOUSE, WITH GUIDED TOURS OF THE BUILDING WILL BE HELD THROUGHOUT THE FOLLOWING WEEK

10 THE NEW ALEXIAN BROTHERS NOVITIATE

THE ORIGINAL PETERS HALL

/

11 I died in Aachen on July 9, 1898. On that day the temporal phase of my vocation as an Alexion Brother was finished; on that day I began my real vocation in eternity along with the Brothers who had gone before me. There are many of us before God's Throne now, far more than are named in the Book of the Dead. It is only because their spiri t and mine is alive in the world Of fone today that I am able to speak at all. We want it known that in our li ving, militant brothers, the members of the Congregation Triumphant have their earthly continuity. We are,all proud of this story of continuous renewal. AnJ begonJ and through God we watch the unfolding of each new chapter with great anticipation. Many of you are familiar with the heroism that laid the foundations of our Institute. When terrible forms of death froze the heart and choked the charity of 13th Century Europe, there emerged a goodly number of

al

;;i.E ~ .. ..­. ' \

12 plain and simple men in whom God's love was more the veteran tree that is our Congregation. vital than the paralyzing fear. They took upon them­ Under the Hand of the Holy Spirit definite form selves the totally unrewarding work of attending and emerged, and our brothers under various titles came burying their fellows who dropped before the plague. closer ond closer to the regular religious life. Persecu­ They had little knowledge of the sciences which allow tions from without and an occasional defection or here­ our 20th Century brothers to work with relative safely sy within tried them so that their Christ-likeness might among similar sufferers; so many of them died. Those be proved. It is one of heaven's joys to me to see that men (anonymous on earth) are rightly styled "Martyrs from March 18, 1469, the day on which Louis of Bour­ of Charity." bon, Prince-Bishop of Liege, established the Celliles as They did not go down into oblivion when they were an Augustinian Order, the Institute has remained essen­ lowered into their graves. Others came forward to feed tially unchanged. Naturally altered concepts and con­ the flame of charity, and the seed was planted. Do not ditions have brought about small revisions; nonethe­ worry, my modern brothers, that you cannot answer the less, my brothers of the 14th and 20th Centuries are frequent question: "Who is your founder?" None of our one in their ideals and aims. Medieval popular devotion saints in Heaven would claim this title. We have a to St. Alexius determined his place as the brothers' Founder- the Wisest- the Holy Spirit, Who nurtured Patron. Gradually, his name became ours. the small plant of our beginnings and created from ii

13 Our ancients did not have the help of systematic Canon Law nor the ease of communication that is known now. Therefore their government was less cen­ tralized, and each house tended to practical autonomy. Yet they met frequently to sustain the spirit of charity among themselves and for the sick-poor. In your archives you will find some of their doings, not the least of which is a Life of St. Alexius published by the authority of the "Paters" (superiors of houses) in the Province of Brabant. The names of no fewer than twelve such Paters can be found on the flyleaf. The book was published, as you will see, al Louvain in 1694. The legend it relates is astounding (and widely fanciful) but it produced devotion and piety in a less skeptical, more faithful era.

In poor, old Europe peacefu development is never suffered overlong. With the coming of unsettled times toward the end of the 18th Century, hardship and reverses attacked our hardworking brothers. Since I have referred to the com­ munity as a tree, I might extend the simile by saying that the French Revolu­ tion (and its consequences) did not strike down the Alexion oak, but cut through several of its roots and lopped off flourishing branches. Indeed our tree will probably never again be able to boast widespread limbs, for I see the very struggle for life continue from that day until now.

My life on earth began during this dark period for the Institute. I was born on December 12, 1825. I had lived in the world for twenty-nine years before entering the novitiate at Aachen on December 7, 1854- the very year that had seen a resurgence of Alexion life. Beginning in 1802, civil law prohibited the taking of vows. During my childhood, the brothers had regained Obedience and Chastity, but not until March 14, 1854 were all three vows made perpet­ ually binding. All this came about through the efforts of our beloved Pater Dominicus Brock. He had learned to love the regular observance from old Pater Werner, who had known so many troubles during his sixty-odd years as a brother. It must have been a great day for those six men who were eligible to vow their entire lives to God.

Even as a novice I sensed the new vitality. New branch houses were being founded and vocations were multiplying. Yet the superiors were not unaware that Prussian militarism was gaining strength and might one day oppress even our gentle Rhineland. Brother Clemens W allrath succeeded the weary Dom­ inicus as Pater a t Aachen, and in 1870 became the first Rector General of the Congregation under Papal jurisdiction. But long before that he had begun to talk of his desire to see the Brothers' work extended to America; there Prussia could never interfere. Where in America? He did not know. By what means? None but God's Providence. What brothers? "We shall see... " It would be untrue if I were to pretend that my heart did not beat faster a t the thought of helping to plant the tree in new, raw America. But I had been in vows only a few years and hoped at best to follow later on. Then at recreation one night:

t t t t t t t t t t t t t 14 "Bonaventure, you'd better begin making plans." Puzzled (America was not in my thoughts that night) I asked: "Plans for what, Pater?" ... There was little sleep for me that night. I could only remember his electrifying answer: "To sail for America, Brother; to sail for America." It was Autumn, 1865.

In my day, sailing preparations were not elaborate, especially for the poor. But it did take time and as the sailing date drew near, I became more anxious. After all, I was nearly forty and a journey alone to English-speaking, bustling America was no small affair. Some laughed and said that if the boat didn't leave soon and travel quickly, I would probably swim. To my chagrin, they proved to be prophets of a sort.

But the sailing date did arrive at last, and I was on my way to the States. My belongings were few, but necessary; habits, clothing and papers outlining my mission. Even our modern ocean liners in December on the Atlantic can be less than comfortable-but that old vssel was no S. S. United States. Weeks of misery were the lot of this traveler, completely unused to the toss and roll of the sea. Eventually we sighted Long Island and I blessed the sight of s teady, dry land. However, the s tormy weather continued--grew worse-and finally reached gale p roportions. The elements, the creaking of the ship and the tense­ ness of the seamen, all combined to make us exhausted passengers anxious.

Suddenly, almost without warning, it happened. Leaks multiplied and the ship settled lower and lower into the trough of the waves. She had done her best, but was forced into defeat and began to break up. A few had thought to haul their luggage to the deck, I had not. Impossible to go below now, we were told, and besides we would be lucky to save our lives- never mind the bag­ gage. All my papers were-yes, down in the trunk. Later it became important, I but on that bitter cold day, I had only one thought, I have been sent to make a foundation in America, and I mean to make ii if God so wills. Need I remind you that in such a case, there is no virtue in looking fo r miracles? I strained as though He expected me to carry the load alone. Ii I Everyone has read of the shipwrecks, and perhaps I bored enough people with the rest of the account at the time. Enough to say, we made shore all right, I thoroughly exhausted and dripping brine, but alive, thanks to God. Under the I circumstances, I can hardly use the expression "out of the frying pan and into the fire," but you must admit that my situation was bewildering. Can you imagine a bedraggled, unshaven and unsteady foreigner approaching wary I Church officials in New York with such a story? To have presented myself as I a religious without producing proofs of my identity a nd my mission would have been foolish. Too many clerical imposters were loose in the States already. I A temporary job was my only choice-that and a letter home. First I managed to get a letter off lo Pater Clemens in Aachen, telling him I the whole story and asking for new papers as soon as possible. Then I took up

t t t t t t t t t t t t t 15 the problem of keeping body and soul united. You know, from my present van­ tage point I am amused at modern novices who dislike washing dishes in a g leaming, airy kitchen. I had to do it in a dank and airless restaurant scullery. I smile a bit, too, al those whose brows darken at having to haul a few rocks; for many a poorly-paid hour I spent in the less-than-pious atmosphere of a brick yard. These were good experiences. My compassion for working people grew stronger for having shared their toil. At last new papers and a little money arrived from the motherhouse. The way was open to plant a new slip from the old tree.

Don't think that during those weeks of waiting I thought of nothing but food and shelter. Questioning and listening to everyone possible, I turned my mind to finding the best locality in which to settle. The East was well built up, and the South was ravaged by war's aftermath. A growing inland city would be best, I thought. Studying the map I wondered about St. Louis, Cincinnati and other towns; but my eyes returning to the dot marked, Chicago. An odd name, and without meaning to me. Accounts of phenomenal growth, wealth and industry fed my resolution lo fi t our Congregation's work into Chicago's boom. It helped lo know that many Germans lived in the city and German-speaking Redemptorists were working among them.

Arriving unknown and unexpected in Chicago isn't a pleasant experience even now, ii was worse then. Of English I knew very little, and nothing of Western ways. I turned to the Redemptorists, especially Fa ther Joseph Muller, whose kindness to me was heartwarming . Whenever a Chicago Redemplorisl comes before God's Throne, I know tha t his mortal rema ins were carried to the ir rest by six of my brothers. I am gratified to know that our fi rst real friends in Chicago are not forgotten, and that charity is expended in payment of a real debt. Many befriended me and I pray fo r them all, bu t without one in par­ ticular, nothing would have mattered much. That one was James Duggan, Bishop of Chicago.

Like his See City, Bishop Duggan was young and busy. I d idn't plan to ask him for much help. Indeed I recall having hoped that he would merely grant the community official recognition and permission to labor in his diocese. We of the Rhineland, you know, respond heartily to kindness; the bishop over­ whelmed me with his. Not only did he grant me permission for the foundation, but he insisted that I use diocesan property near the lake. Seeing the area now it seems unbelievable that the corner of North Dearborn and Schiller Streets was a peaceful spot then. The Catholic cemetery was nearby and I welcomed the opportunity to pray for the faithful buried there. If I were at the Cardinal's house now, I would look South and evision the little frame house which was home to me and a cradle for the American Province. Help from the mother­ house and our Chicago friends enabled us to erect that combination hospital and convent where our first novices were received that same year-1866.

t t t t t t t t t t t t t 16 A great benefactor of the Alexion Brothers soon entered my life. He was our first patient in America, a nameless sufferer whom I found over on Franklin Street. He was frail, and I carried him on my back to the house. The poor soul was worn out, friendless and sick-the perfect "first patient." An artist long without paints or the musician whose instrument has been broken will know how I felt at being able to resume the apostolate to which we are dedicated.

I found on my arrival that the growing city had pitifully few facilities for the sick. My small quarters were quickly filled. Writing to Pater Clemens, I begged for more brothers so that we could take more of Chicago lo our heart. By 1868, Brothers Paulus Polig, Stanislaus Schwipperich, Leonard Jansen and Jacob Schilling had joined me and we set out to gather enough money lo start a modern hospital. A good location was found on Market Street, which increased our enthusiasm. It was lo be a fifty bed institution, caring for any type of illness and all classes of patients. Since we were without means, begging became woven into the fabric of our daily lives. Not until the 20th Century was well ad­ vanced and insurance more routine, was the practice of house-to-house begging to be discontinued. With it passed a definite era in the brothers' work.

By the following year we were moved in and caring for our patients. There were no night brothers in those days. Everyone took turns adding the night watch to the day's work. Some days we arose at three a.m. to do the laundry. Surely it was tiring, but our satisfaction was ample. With the addition of a few more brothers from Aachen, we began to cast around for another city in which to locale. St. Louis had attracted me before, and after consulting with the com­ munity, it was decided that Brothers Paul and Alexius should go down to con­ sult with Archbishop Kenrick.

I managed to get away from the hospital long enough to see the brothers on their way. That was September 14, 1869. Besides their tickets they had little more than I had landed with; but in both instances God's Province was our true letter of credit. "Now," I thought, " things are settling down; I shall be able to work for God and His sick poor in peace." I could not have been more wrong. Brother Albert Engeln arrived from Aachen with a letter from Peter Clemens, ad­ dressed lo the community. In view of the forthcoming General Chapter (1870), ii was decided that America should constitute a distinct Province-not merely a mission. Mary Immaculate would be its Patroness and Brother Albert its first Provincial. I remained as rector, but my real work in America was finished. Obedience directed my return to Germany after the building program was completed.

Once back in Europe, I followed every move of the American Province closely, and I feel that I can tell its story fully. Letters told me of the success in St. Louis. A large well-built house on Carondolet Road had been bought and plans for an additional building were under way. The suburban location wor- t t t t t t t t t t t t t t 17 THE ALEXIAN BROTHER . . . . . DEDICATION TO HUMANITY

18 ried me at the lime. One is amazed that St. Louis has not only reached the hospital. but today stretches miles beyond. The need for a hospital for mental patients was seen there very early. In accordance with our ancient traditions a part of the hospital was set apart for this work. Our confreres in Heaven, back to the first, pray for this exacting charity still being performed with distinction in St. Louis.

The Chapter of 1870 changed the governmental form of the Institute which at that time became a Congregation directly subject to the Holy See. Autono­ mous houses were invited by Pope Leo XIII to join the Congregation under the Aachen motherhouse. Only one accepted the invitation; the others remain in­ dependent, but Alexion Brothers are all the same.

The Chicago fire of 1871 was a blow to me, even across the ocean. The pio­ neer recruits and I had struggled to complete that first hospital; the best equip­ ment known had been installed; and now the news that although every patient had been saved, nothing but the statue of Our Lady and the altar vessels remained of the plant. Brother Anton Dold, we were told, had concealed the latter deep enough in the ground so that they d id not melt as did many of the city's b uried valuables. By the lime I returned to America in 1876 (to make a visitation for the General) I found a better hospital than before-larger and finer than I could have imagined. Surely some good comes from d isaster.

1880, Pater Dominicus Brock died on April 9. We mourned this man of cour­ age, w hose spirit had sustained and encouraged us a ll during the reorganiza­ tion. That same year, the new General. Pater Ouirinus Bank, told me that an­ other new hospital was to be opened in Oshkosh, Wisconsin . I imagined that this must be another city bursting its seams like Chicago. That was not so. The new hospital became a retreat for mental and nervous patients rather than a general hospital. Because of this work, Oshkosh has never attracted much publicity. Never imagine, however, that its work is without merit. Here in eter­ nity we can see the immeasurable good credited to our men who have worked with so little thanks among those unfortunate sufferers.

I must have been in the neighborhood of the next foundation made al Eliz­ abeth, New Jersey, when I first arrived in the United States. The brothers wrote to me in England, where I was serving as novice master, and told about the invitation from Bishop Wigger of Newark. "The growing industrial town of Elizabeth had no Catholic hospital; would the brothers consider opening one there?" The new American Provincial, Brother Aloys Schyns, was a man of vision and rare practicality. He foresaw success and sent three religious to Elizabeth in 1893. That was the beginning of an enjoyable case of "heart trouble": the brothers loved Elizabeth ever since and the good people there have returned their affection a hundredfold. There is divine value in that re­ markable bond of mutual charity. t t t t t t t t t t t t t t 19 Although the story I am telling is mostly of America, I would like to outline the progress of the Congregation in other lands. Since 1875 our brothers have been in England working against difficulties not encountered in a new land. Today sturdy English and Irish brothers form the entire Province of the Sacred Heart, fulfilling our apostolate of lending the sick and burying the dead. Later years have seen houses opened in both the North and the South of Ireland. In Germany, the civil climate was gradually tempered. New houses there and in I Belgium were a result. Growth would be steady there until the advent of Naziism, the repressor. That regime did its worst, then passed, leaving the S t. Alexius Province weakened and poor, but still possessed of the will to rise and go forward .

Awaiting death at our beloved motherhouse, I often forgot my pain and slowly passing time in conversation with the brothers who nursed me so kindly. We spoke of the thriving condition of the four American houses, and marvelled at the plans for the new Alexion Hospital in Chicago. The expansion of the city was forcing a still greater progress upon that foundation. Remem­ bering St. Louis, I was not one who worried because Brother Aloys had bought property far out on Belden A venue to be the site of the fourth Chicago structure.

We talked of the American brothers, too. Some had never been to the mother­ nouse, like Brother Simon Petry, my first novice in the lake-front house. Then there was the first American-born member, Brother Cyprian Goeser. As first director of the nursing school, he was a real pioneer. As novice master, his simple teaching would guide whole generations of religious. Had I been able to evision the future, I would have seen him as "grandfather" to novices after his thirty-odd years in office had been completed. I never met Brother Ambrose Mussbaum on earth, but like everyone else I had heard much about his Christ­ like charity. During his years in the office at Chicago, he gained more friends and admirers than he knew. His exceptionally retentive memory is legendary.

Brother Jodocus Schiffer had arrived in America with Brother Albert just before I left. While I served as Assistant General his ability and humility had often been discussed. It is good that he lived on until 1934, an exemplary link with our early days. If I went into everything we talked about that early Sum­ mer of 1898, I should fill a volume; and after a ll most of us are together again. More will join us. . . .

I have continued to follow each event in the lives of my sons and brothers, though no longer through mortal senses. I know how many trials beset the community with the complication of hospital work, nurses' training and novi­ tiate formation. Brother Aloys and I have watched prayerfully while many Tennesseans made their first contact with the Church through our brothers at Signal Mountain. Old Paters join us in watching the Generalate which crossed the sea to function from that Southern mission. And now we are all looking for

t t t t t t t t t t t t t 20 worthy results from the new novitiate for Americans at Gresham, Wisconsin. The congregation today needs men with the same spirit and determination that brought about the birth of our Order, the reorganization and the founding of the newer provinces. Only in the novitiate can such men be formed and in­ spired; there they must breathe in the idealism without which their religious life would be sterile. For such men, we in eternity are watching. In them our lives continue-it is for them that we pray. Our prayers will be heard, for we ore close to His Throne. "For with us, Christ's love is the compelling power."

The seal of the Congregation of Alexion Brothers appears in the cartouche over the main entrance and in the center of the lobby floor, and is symbolic of the end or work of the community.

The upper half shows on a red background the Pelican nourish­ ing its young with her heart's blood- a symbol of the self sacri­ fice of Christian charity. The two spades on the black background, in the lower half, is a remembrance of former activity of the Alex­ ion Brothers in burying the dead in time of calamity. The flying raven on a silver gray background represents the feeding of the destitute, a virtue the community has practiced for centuries. From the back of the shield projects the cross, indicating in the cross is salvation. A band with the inscription of words of St. Paul: "Caritas Christi Urget Nos"­ "The charity of Christ urges us" completes the seal of this charitable congrega­ tion.

/

21 Once but Cl

::Dream. . • • The development of preliminary plans for the establishment of a new novitiate for the Ale xion Brothers were prepared by the architectual firm of Ma­ guolo and Quick. During this develop­ ment of plans for the novitiate a t Clay­ ton, Missouri, the Brothers were given the large Peters estate near Gresham, Wisconsin, and the preliminary draw­ ings were modified and altered to fit the new conditions. June 9, 1954

On May 15, 1953 Mr. George Mag­ uolo, Architect, and Brother Florian, Provincial of the Alexion Brothers made a thorough inspection of the property at Gresham in order to get sufficient information for the fu rther develop­ ment of plans for a new building at this site.

This preliminary survey was fol­ lowed by further research and investi­ gation by the Brother Provincial, ac­ companied by Mr. George Hutter, Sr., and Mr. Merle Phalen of the Hutter Construction Company, Fond du Lac,

July 9, 1954

who visited the new b uilding site on July 28, 1953.

Subsequent mee tings of the Provin­ cial Council, the architects and con­ tractors brought about the clearing of the site East of Peters Hall, on August 25, 1953. Removing the trees a nd shrub­ bery with a bulldozer continued until December 11, 1953, when work was discontinued until the following Spring. Work on the new novitiate started officially on April 19, 1954, at which time registration of employes was held by Mr. Karl Hannemann, superintend­ ent of the Hutter Construction Com- August 13, 1954 22 pony, the General Contractor selected for the construction.

Formal bid opening was arranged for July 18, 1954 at which time the elec­ trical con tract was awarded lo the Koenig and Marvin Electrical Contrac­ tors, Marshfield, Wisconsin; and the plumbing, heating, and ventilating con­ tracts were awarded the J. F. A hern Company of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

On April 19, 1955, one year of con­ struction had passed, during which lime rapid progress had been made on all phases of the project. The compara-

September 17, 1954

lively mild winter permitted steady work on the part of most of the trades and there were no delays in construc­ tion.

Interior finishing and the completion of the exterior proceeded according to schedule and today we have a stately and impressive structure. The building is of fireproof construction throughout. the exterior finished in Fond du Lac stone, the style in keeping with a Col­ onial theme of architecture. The out­ standing features of the building are the beautiful archite::tural lines in an

October 22, 1954

fiow

artistic setting, maintaining a monastic simplicity throughout as shown by the lengthy cloister walk with arched win­ dows and quarry tile floor. The spa­ cious rooms for specialized functions, and the sturdy construction will mean a minimum of maintenance and a work of lasting beauty. The new novitiate is truly a memorial to all who participat­ ed in its development and construction.

March 31, 1955 23 THE NOVITIATE CHAPEL The beautiful chapel. dedicated to the Immaculate Hearl of Mary, is of con­ temporary design throughout, a nd is the center of the Alexion Brothers' life.

THE ALTARS The Catholic altar has always been a table or tomb, the double form having been perpetuated through the ages as a memorial of the institution of the Eucharist and of the burial of Our Lord. The cloth that covered the table at the last supper and the winding sheet of Christ's burial are recalled by the white linens spread upon the altar. In the novitiate chapel the altars are made of Verde Issorie marble, imported from Italy. The symbol in front of the mid portion of the main a ltar is made of polished bronze and represents a portion of the seal of the Congregation of Alexion Brothers depicting their charitable work. In the top of the altar table is enclosed a small tomb which holds the relics of the martyrs and three grains of incense, a reminder of the burial of Christ and the piety of the disciples and holy women who annointed the body of Christ with aromatic herbs at the time of His burial.

THE CROSS AND STATUES Above the tabernacle is the cross, made from stained walnut, which speaks simply but eloquently "It is here that Jesus Christ renews the sacrifice of cal­ vary". The Corpus, the body of Christ, was carved by a famous artist in Ger­ many, as were the statues of the Blessed Mother and Saint Joseph which stand over the two side altars.

THE STAINED GLASS WINDOWS Symbolic of the Brothers' work of charity in their hospitals and other institu­ tions, the stained glass windows show the corporal works of mercy, and special patrons of the Alexion Brothers community.

THE MOSAIC The mosaic panel on the back wall of the chapel was fabricated in Italy and symbolizes the corporal work of mercy, burying the dead, which was the initial work of the Alexion Brothers at the time of their origin in the fourteenth century. IMMA CULA TE HEART OF MARY CHAPEL

The reredos, or marble wainscot behind the main alter, is made ol Juane Brignolles, a French marble, and the wainscot throughout the remainder cl the chapel is St. Florentine Rose, a marble from Italy. The architectural design of the chapel was prepared by Mr. George Maguo!o, of the architectural firm of St. Louis, and the interior finishing of the fitments and appointments was designed and installed by the Daprato Studios of Chicago.

25 The cornerstone, to the left of the main entrance of the novitiate, is dated 1954 in memory of the Marian Year, during which the new construction began. Behind the cornerstone, commemorating the formal inauguration of the erection of the building is a copper container which holds the following: Relic of Saint Pius X, Vade Mecum- prayer book of the Alexion Brothers, New Short Brev­ iary, Rule and Custom Book of the Alexion Brothers, Marian year prayer com­ posed by Pope Pius XII. The Shawano Evening Leader, history of the Alexion Brothers Congregation, list bearing names of the Higher Superiors, Several pieces of American money, history of the property a t Gresham, Wisconsin, history of the construction of the novitiate, copy of the dedication book and program, Memorial fund brochure.

MAIN ENTRANCE SPECIAL MEMORIALS

27 LOBBY

NOVICE'S ROOM CLOISTER

'

•I • Our Sponsors

BARTELT ASBESTOS AND CORK COMPANY, APPLETON. WISCONSIN

BREUER MET AL CRAFTSMAN, INC., BEA VER DAM. WISCONSIN

CONSOLIDATED BADGER COOPERATIVE, SHAWANO, WISCONSIN

COOK AND BROWN LIME COMPANY. OSHKOSH. WISCONSIN

DEARCO DISTRIBUTORS, SHAW ANO, WISCONSIN

FARMERS HARDWARE COMPANY, SHAWANO. WISCONSIN

FOND DU LAC STONE CO., INC., FOND DU LAC, WISCONSIN

R. J. GEHR, D.D.S., SHAWA NO, WISCONSIN

GRESHAM COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, GRESHAM. WISCONSIN

GRESHAM STATE BANK, GRESHAM, WISCONSIN

PHILLIP GROSS HARDWARE COMPANY, MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

JOHN HENNES TRUCKING COMPANY, APPLETON, WISCONSIN

JOHNSON SERVICE COMPANY, MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

LAEHN COAL AND WOOD COMPANY, SHAWANO . WISCONSIN

J. A. LIEG COMPANY, SHAWANO. WISCONSIN

LEO LJEG DISTRIBUTING COMPANY, SHAWANO, WISCONSIN . R. A. MANNING COMPANY. SHEBOYGAN. WISCONSIN ~ MANKATO TILE AND TERRAZZO COMPANY, MANKATO. MINNESOTA RICHARD 0. MERHOLTZ. LATHING, APPLETON, WISCONSIN I THE NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL LIFE INS. CO., MILWAUKEE, WIS. OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY, MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

RAUE AND SONS, INC.. WATERTOWN, WISCONSIN

C. REISS COAL COMPANY, SHEBOYGAN, WISCONSIN

RICH McFARLANE CUT STONE CO., MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

B. P. SCANLON. 0.D., SHAWANO, WISCONSIN

SHAW ANO MOTOR CO. (SHAMOCO FORD), SHAWANO, WIS.

STIERS HARDWARE COMPANY, INC., GRESHAM, WISCONSIN

SOUTHERN EQUIPMENT COMP ANY, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

29 PICTURESQUE FREEBORN FALLS ON NOVITIATE PROPERTY

DRIVEWAY TO ADMINISTRATION BUILDING .Business Patrons

Hon. Melvin A. Laird, M.C., Marshfield, Wisconsin Bilmay Hotel. Shawano, Wisconsin Citizens State Bank, Shawano, Wisconsin Coca Cola Bottling Company, Rhinelander, Wisconsin Gresham Frigid Locker Service, Gresham, Wisconsin Ideal Ice Cream Company, Shawano, Wisconsin Karth Funeral Home, Shawano, Wisconsin F. Kaster Co., Inc., Green Bay, Wisconsin Kolb Studios, Shawano, Wisconsin Schabow Standard Service Station, Gresham, Wisconsin Shawano Ice Cream Company, Shawano, Wisconsin Steen Macek Paper Company, Green Bay, Wisconsin Thimke Jewelers, Shawano, Wisconsin Thorseon Food Products, Shawano, Wisconsin Wilbert Van Buechen, Gresham, Wisconsin Albert F. Wendt, Shawano, Wisconsin

Patrons

Johnson Service Company Security Lightning Rods Furnished & Installed AUTOMATIC By TEMPERATURE & HUMIDITY CONTROLS Security Mfg. & Contracting Company MILWAUKEE WISCONSIN Burlington, Wisconsin

Congratulations on Your Wonderful Work Buy Morning Glory Ice Cream PLUMBERS SUPPLY CO. Shawano, Wisconsin Fond du Lac, Wis. Plumbing and Heating - Wholesale Only HERBERT MOORE CONSULTING ENGINEER

HAMILTON STONE COMPANY W ater and Sewage System PRODUCERS OF P ANETTI STONE 1330 North Franklin Place, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin Milwaukee. Wisconsin 31 KITCHEN DISHW ASHING ROOM

REFECTORY CLASS ROOM

32 Purpose of the ....Novitiate

The purpose of the Novitiate is the formation of the mind and the spiritual character of the novice under the direction of the Novice Master. This is accom­ plished by means of the study of the rules and constitutions; by meditation and assiduous prayer, by instruction in those matters which pertain to the vows and virtues; and by suitable exercises for rooting out the germs of vice, fo r regulating the motions of the soul, and acquiring virtues. In substance, this is the wording of the code of Canon Law on the purpose and work of the Novitiate.

The time of the Novitiate is the ever blessed time of a religious career. The grace of God reaches into the innermost depths of the novice's soul during this initial period of his dedication to the Master and His service. It enables him to test and to be tried in all that pertains to his future life a sa re ligious; in our case as a religious in the Congregation of the Alexion Brothers.

Saint Augustine, the au

The religious mentality mentioned earlier as the purpose of the Novitiate evolves from this ordered tranquility. In another sense, it may be said to be the fruit of the combined resources, helps, strengths, hopes, lights and joys provided by the wise direction of the Master of Novices; the Novitiate facilities and environment, plus the novice's own generosity and cooperation with grace. The novice will be thoroughly instructed and grounded in the vows of religion, which he will assume at the completion of his Novitiate, realizing the ir excel­ lence, obligations and privileges. Finally, he will have become acquainted with the Rule, Constitutions and Customs of the Alexion Brothers, and imbuad with a love for and loyalty to the distinctive character and spirit of our beloved Con­ gregation.

The novice will enter the active life of the Congregation fi lled with a deep and genuine knowledge and love of his Master, Jesus Christ. He w ill have acquired this union with Christ through his faithful a dherence to and the prac­ tice of the daily spiritual and religious exercises of the Novitiate, but most of a ll by the unconditional surrender of himself to the love and will of God.

With the purpose of the Novitiate achieved, the novice will come forth Christlike in mind, heart. outlook and will. He will desire only what God de­ sires, accepting with love wha t He sends. He will be Christlike in word and action. He wil be ready as another Modern Sa maritan to take his place, humbly but prepared and confident in the ranks of the Alexion Brothers. t t t t t t t t t t t t t t 33 £;{e of Saint c-4/exius

Alexius (or Alexis) Savelli was born of wealthy and infl uential parents in the city of Rome in the early part of the fi fth century. His parents were noted for their strong Christian faith and their exceptional works of charity among the poor a nd unfortunate. Alexius followed their inspiring example, devoting his time and talents to charitable works, in preference lo the social and poli tical life to which his wealth and position entitled him.

Always obedient to his parents, despite his desire to give his life to the serv­ ice of God, he agreed to a marriage which they had arranged for him. How­ ever, immediately after the wedding ceremony, he left his bride and home, (apparently through Divine inspira tion) journeyed into the Holy Land and set­ tled in the city of Edessa. For ten or more years, his life in Edessa was one of prayer, sacrifice and mortification, and while dependent upon the alms of others, he willingly shared what he had with those in poorer circumstances. He was disclosed as a "chosen man of God" by a m ysterious voice heard by a ll in the church , and he fled from the place in order to avoid publicity and worldly honors.

Divine Providence again intervened and he found himself back in his native city of Rome. Unrecognized, he mel his father on the street and sough t permis­ sion to live in his fa ther's house. This was granted and for eighteen years he lived in a small room under the stairs in his father's palace. Humbled, despised and mistreated by his father's servants, he accepted ii all in a spirit of morti­ fication, spending his time in prayer and sharing his small sustenance with others.

Realizing that death was approaching, he wrote the history of his life, and d ied with the finished manuscript in his hands. His presence in the house was revealed to the clergy of Rome, th rough the same mysterious voice and thus his true identity was learned. He was buried in the church of Saint Bon iface, with all the ceremonies of the Church and from that day forth he was revered as a Saini of God.

Because of his life of poverty, mortification and devotion to the poor of Christ, Saini Alexius was chosen as th e patron of many religious societies. This ex­ plains his selection as patron of the Order dedicated to the care of the sick, the burying of the dead and other works of charity.

The Alexion Brothers are proud and honored lo bear the name of a Saint who sacrificed so much to serve his Master in the poor and unfortunate. His true spirit of charity has been perpetuated in the heritage of the Alexion Brothers, who have dedicated their lives lo an apostolate of charity in many lands.

t t t t t t t t t t t t t 34 Congratulations

To

THE ALEXIAN BROTHERS

MAGLIOLO AND QUICK

ARCHITECTS - ENGINEERS

Saint Louis Cincinnati

Minneapolis Milwaukee

Detroit Baltimore

35 We Are Proud To Have Served

The Congregation of Alexian Brothers

In The Construction of Their New

Novitiate at Gresham, Wisconsin.

It Is A Privilege To Add Their Name

To The Long List of Religious Orders

We Have Served For The Past 78 Years.

HUTTER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

Fond du Lac Wisconsin

36 Another notable proiect

in which we have completed the

PLUMBING, HEATING AND VENTILATING.

We extend our good wishes

for a successful future

to the Congregation of Alexian Brothers

at this Dedication Ceremony.

J. F. AHERN CO. - FOND DU LAC, WIS.

37 K. & M. ELECTRIC SERVICE

Marshfield, Wisconsin

Are Happy To Have Installed

All of The Electrical Work

In This New Novitiate Building

and

We Extend Our Sincere Congratulations

and Good Wishes

To The Congregation of The Alexi an Brothers.

Al. H. Koenig C. G. Marvin

Electrical Contracting and Appliances

38 round the clock with .Scxlon

Gverg time the cloc1t tichs Sexton Jlootls are Oeillfl served to _pleasedguests with greater_prqfit

39 The Alexian Brothers are truly grateful to their loyal friends and generous benefactors who mode this souvenir book and program possible.

• • •

A word of gratitude and praise to the Architect, Contractors, Superintendents and Workmen, who labored so diligently in designing and completing this new building.

• • •

To all those who helped make this day a memorable one in the minds and hearts of the Alexion Brothers.

Our gra titude can be best expressed by a sincere GOD BLESS YOU!

* * *

FOR THOSE WHO MAY WISH TO REMEMBER THE NOVITIATE IN THEIR WILLS, THE FOLLOWING FORM OF BEQUEST IS RECOMMENDED:

I g ive, davise and bequeath to the Alexion Brothers of Gresham, a Wisconsin Corporation, the sum of$...... for the use of the Novi liate of the Congregation of Alexion Brothers.

PROOUCED BY T HE NORMAN K I NG Co •• BERWYN. I LL.

40 t t t t t t t t t t t t t