August in Louisville Was with God and the by Jim Donnelly Word Was God

The Newsletter of the SVD Alumni Association Volume 12, Issue 1 Spring/Summer 2011

In the beginning was the Word, the Word August in Louisville was with God and the By Jim Donnelly Word was God. He was with God in the In 2010, the roving reunion of beginning. Through Perrysburg alumni stopped in the Him all things came into being, not one river city of Louisville, Ky. Heat and thing came into being humidity were moderate—unusual except through Him. for August. Frequent bursts of What has come into laughter were heard as older, and being in Him was life, hopefully wiser, folks renewed life that was the light of Members of three classes—1961, 1962 and 1963—gather acquaintances. for a group photo. men; and light shines in For many, it was the first meet- darkness, and darkness ing in near 50 years. The Class of 1962’s atten- Walt Bracken, Fr. Stan Uroda and Brother Don could not overpower it. dance swelled to eight for this meet, and when Champagne also represented the Divine Word joined by those who graduated in 1961 and 1963, Missionaries. There were many new alumni in at- the total of old friends reached 14. tendance from Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Illinois, The diversity of the group was remarkable. Ohio, and of course, Kentucky. As we shared life stories, we learned how oc- Joe Greene (Perrysburg 1966) was honored cupations, philosophies and political opinions with a certificate of appreciation for the many varied. It was interesting that in spite of our dif- hours and years spent writing newsletters ferences, there were no major disagreements. and emails, which helped members of his gradu- For those interested in tourist sites and activ- ating class to remain exceptionally close over ities, there was baseball and the Louisville Slug- the years. ger Museum and Factory tour. We shared Mass A mention should be made of the Galt House and an excellent dinner at Porcini’s on Saturday Hotel, which was the gathering point for the night. For many of us, this renewed connection reunion. On Sunday, the remainder of the group continues via e-mail and Facebook. gathered for breakfast before saying our final The guest of honor was Dave Slattery, a for- goodbyes. We promised to see each other again. mer Divine Word priest and teacher who taught Inside this Issue at Perrysburg in the 1960s and early ’70s. Dave The 2011 Perrysburg reunion will be held 1 Louisville lives in Minnesota with his wife Carol, and this at the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, 2 Director’s column was his first reunion. Mich., on July 22-24. Our guest of honor will be 3 Candidates Reunion Fr. Dan Bauer, SVD, who was on home Fr. Bob Jones, who taught at Perrysburg in the leave from Taiwan, celebrated our Mass. Fr. mid-1960s and later in the ’70s. Come join us. 5 Techny Dinner 6 Website 7 Vocations 9 Miramar Jubilee 11 Girard 2010 12 West Virginia photos 14 East Troy picnic 16 Jamaica Mission 19 Golf Outing 2010 21 SVD memoriam Jerry Van de Vyver Bishop Kalisz presents gifts and a 22 Upcoming events Members of the Class of 1966 meet in the Louisville Slugger certificate to class- 23 Bay St. Louis Museum and Factory and reminisce about better days when mate Joe Greene. Reunion they could swing those bats. Contact us From the director’s desk SVD Alumni Association mike cousins, perrysburg 1965 [email protected] (888) 276-6536 An important point that is stated in our mission statement is www.svdalumni.org that we will promote togetherness. This year has proven to be very successful in that regard. In this issue, you will read about events at which various classes have managed to gather together at various places to celebrate their friendships. East Troy graduates had two different reunions to pick from. The seminary class of 1960 celebrated their jubilee at Techny with the priests and classmates. The brother candidates also found that they renewed old friendships gathering together at Techny. Mike Cousins Visitors from Perrysburg attended the East Troy Picnic; East SVD Alumni Association Director Troy graduates joined Perrysburg alumni in Louisville, Ky.; and Girard, East Troy, Perrysburg, and Techny alumni worked side by side in West Virginia. Changes As you page through this year’s newsletter, put yourself at the As I write this column, names event being described and say to yourself, “I’m going to attend are being submitted for the pro- one of these this year.” vincial appointments and houses. The reason we host these gatherings is you—to get together Fr. Tom Ascheman is the new and renew old friendships, forge new ones, and continue the provincial, and many other men strong tradition of SVD Family that was part of our formation will be moving into other areas of process as candidates for the religious life. responsibility and mission of the Divine Word Missionaries subsidize the SVD Alumni Associa- Society of the Divine Word and tion, as well as the publications, gatherings, and mission experi- the Church. Say a prayer that they ences that the alumni association offers. Because of this subsidy, may find their roles rewarding and the alumni association charges no dues nor asks for funds. faith filled. As good stewards, we as alumni should be grateful for the One of the changes already an- opportunities that we have had and be thankful for our many nounced is that of the president memories and friends. Times have been as tough for the Society of Divine Word College. Fr. Tim of the Divine Word as they have for all of us. I believe that it is Lenchak (Girard) has returned time that we find a way to say thanks for the help that they give from Rome and will be taking to us. over from Fr. Mike Hutchins, the So, scattered through the newsletter you will find information well-respected current president from Divine Word College, the Mission Center, and the Chicago who has been at the helm for Province Development Office. Many of you already contribute in more than 18 years. whatever way you can, and others have said that they would not Many of you know Tim from mind knowing where they could send a contribution from time Girard, Epworth, CTU, Techny, to time. and of course, East Troy, where Rather than share your mailing addresses with all three de- he was vocation recruiter on his partments, the board has agreed to let them place information in first assignment. Welcome home our newsletter and let you be your own guide. Fr. Tim! This does two things. First, it adheres to the privacy policy that we have in place, and second, it gives all of you the oppor- Good News tunity to give back in stewardship in a way that says thanks for The Miramar group has repur- what they have done for us on a personal level. posed themselves to include more If you do make a contribution because of the information than just Miramar. From here on please identify yourself in your correspondence as an alumnus. out, they will be known as SVD

Page 2 Continued on page 6 A picture’s Camaraderie and friendship mark time at Techny worth a By Ken Kolbeck, Techny 1960 thousand words For more than two decades, the To see recent Brother Candidates’ School at Techny, photos, check out Ill., prepared teenage boys for broth- the Society of the erhood in the Society of the Divine Divine Word website photo gallery at Word. I was one of the boys who ar- www.divineword. rived in the fall of 1956 for my fresh- org/gallery. man year. Coming from South Dakota, my parents and my older brother drove me all the way to the seminary on two- lane highways because there were no interstates then. I learned about the seminary from a magazine. Later, Fr. Leo Hotze came to visit me one summer day after I sent in my name and address for information. He was a nice priest, and he told me about the Brother Candidates’ School at Techny. The thing that struck me most when I got to Techny was the huge wrap-around building with a courtyard in the middle. The dormitory had rows of single beds and a chair next to each bed. The whole student body slept in one big hall, almost 100 of us. I learned that it was once the main chapel in the seminary. We were given a single locker for our clothes. The Brother candidates, brothers, seminarians and religious lockers got bigger and better as you sisters participate in Mass at the Chapel of the Holy moved up in years. Some of the seniors Spirit at Techny in 1956. had double lockers and newer beds. Our prefect at that time was Fr. Chester on Saturday afternoons, we played sports and Nowicki. He was known to scare the living day- enjoyed free time until 4 p.m. singing practice, lights out of you if he caught you doing something where Brother Joseph helped us get ready for the against the rules. I now know that it was all a put high Masses of the following week. on. In later years, I got to know him as a kind, Some of the students worked at the green- caring man. house, or nursery, run by Brother Charles Reck- Fr. Patrick Fincutter was our assistant prefect, amp and Brother Vincent Keller. Other students along with Brother Gordian (now Fr. Bill Halvey) worked at the farm, paint shop, tailor shop, me- and Brother Joseph Colwell. Brother Joseph chanical or electrical shop. taught us how to sing the Latin Mass and Vespers. We also had the press building and bookbind- He also taught the Glee Club and band. ing department until it burned down in 1960 One thing that I found different was having during our senior year. We were awakened by school classes just half a day—in the morning. In Fr. Nowicki around 1 a.m. to see the sky outside the afternoons, we worked in a trade that inter- our windows ablaze in an orange color from the ested us. We never had school on Thursdays but flames of the press building—not far from our worked all day at our trade. On Saturday morning, we went to class, and Continued on page 8 Page 3 Page 4 Techny Dinner honors Bishop Dominic Carmon

because we had developed such close ties through our formation process, it was good to see that about a third of the attendees were friends of Bishop Carmon and were there to celebrate his friendship through the years. Bishop Carmon has touched the lives of many people during his priestly career. His curriculum vitae covers two pages and shows that he is respected as a leader within the hierarchy of the United States, having headed many committees at the national level, including time as national chaplain of the Knights of St. Peter Claver. The bishop began his religious career at St. Augustine Seminary in Bay St. Louis, and he was ordained to the priesthood in 1960. He served as as- sociate pastor and later pastor at St. Anselm in Chicago for Bishop Dominic Carmon speaks to the group that honored him at many years before being sent the annual Techny Dinner on Nov. 13, 2010 at Techny Conference to the U.S. Southern Province, and Retreat Center. where he served in many ca- So many traits and characteristics distinguish pacities and eventually became auxiliary bishop the Divine Word priests and brothers who have of New Orleans. influenced us. Retired Bishop Dominic Carmon is Even though he has officially retired, Bishop no exception to that rule. Carmon continues to assist in ministry in the New Alumni, members of the Society of the Divine Orleans Archdiocese. However, he found time to Word, friends and family gathered on Saturday, attend the 50th Ordination Jubilee of his graduat- Nov. 13, in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit at the ing class at Techny. In May of 2010, he ordained Techny Towers Conference and Retreat Center to the candidates to the priesthood at Techny. attend Mass, celebrated by Bishop Carmon, and The next Techny Dinner will be held Nov. to enjoy an evening of socializing, food and listen- 12, 2011. Fr. John McHenry, a Girard graduate ing as he shared some of his stories with us. and a teacher at East Troy and Perrysburg who It was a very nice mix of people who at- recently transferred from the U.S. Western Prov- tended. While many of us enjoy seeing each other ince to Techny, will be the 2011 honoree.

Page 5 A website by any other name

If you’ve visited the SVD Alumni Association online lately, you’ve noticed a big change. Our alumni association’s online presence is now interwoven with that of the Society of the Divine Word’s Chicago Province. As the Chicago Province undertook the massive re- design of its website, we had an opportunity to become a part of it. Not only does this union give web users an opportunity to learn more about our organization as a whole, it also saves the alumni association money. We plan to do more and more online and through elec- tronic communication, so that we can be good stewards of the Society of the Divine Word’s resources. If you haven’t already taken a look at the website, go to www.divineword.org. You’ll find news, photos, an interactive timeline of the province history, interesting FAQs and, of course, helpful information about your SVD Alumni Association.

FROM THE DIRECTOR’S DESK continued from page 2 Alumni East. It is their wish to include all alumni, many varied positions and careers that our alumni especially those from Girard, Bordentown, Cone- have held. sus, and Miramar. Credit union president, newspaper editors They invite anyone who is on the East Coast and managers, engineers, lawyers, accountants, to drop in during their gathering in September. teachers, architects—to name a few. Many of our I can personally assure you that you will have a alumni have worked within the parameters of so- wonderful time. If you are interested in receiving cial services—from prison and probation to chari- communication from them, drop them a note at: table organizations throughout the country. [email protected]. Maybe I am a bit prejudiced, but I am thankful to the Society of the Divine Word for the won- Thank you derful foundation that I was given on top of the Thank you to the more than 500 of you who examples from my parents. A particular honor responded to our request for updates on your that I received was given by my pastor at St. Mary email addresses and other information. One of Queen of Creation in New Baltimore, Mich. At the things we intend to do is share a monthly let- our annual parish appreciation dinner, I was pre- ter to keep you informed of various achievements sented with the Man of the Year award. To quote of alumni and activities. Fr. Ray Weisenberger, “I didn’t do anything spe- We have just begun to get responses from cial, just what was asked of me.” many of you responding to our request for email Mike Cousins addresses and information. I am in awe of the SVD Alumni Association Director

New Email Address Just as the SVD Alumni Association’s online presence changes, so does the alumni director’s email address. In time, we’ll no longer use [email protected]. Instead, the new email address is [email protected]. With the new address, the alumni association incurs no fees. This change is another example of how the alumni association conscientiously is using its resources.

Page 6 Journeying with people on a journey By Fr. Tony Romo, SVD

As I reflect on my ministry as a vocation recruiter, I have a deep sense of gratitude for all the blessings that I have received during these six years. This ministry is often evaluated based on the challenges or difficulties that it entails. How- ever, I would like to reflect on the blessings that this ministry has offered me. One of the blessings of working in the vocation ministry is the opportunity to visit all kinds of parishes around the country. Being able to speak three languages opened many doors for me to visit different communities. I was able to celebrate the Eucharist and talk to people about the vocation to the priesthood and religious life as a member of the Society of the Divine Word. I visited hundreds of parishes around the country. Despite all the diversity, I was welcomed in a very positive manner in all of them. People were so grateful to have a visiting priest and experience some fresh air in the preaching and way of presiding. Another blessing of being a vocation recruiter was to be able to accompany young men who are considering religious life or the priesthood as an If people in authority would only trust the youth option for them. Being able to listen to their sto- more; if people would believe in the youth and ries and see how God is working in their lives as have programs in their parishes that are attractive they discern what to do, is a privilege for me. to them and make them feel valuable and appreci- What impacted me the most was the honesty ated, our Church would be livelier and our world with which most of the young men spoke to would be a better place. me even though I was a stranger to them. They As I move on to a different ministry, after six trusted me because I was a priest and because I years as a vocation recruiter, I do it with a deep was helping them reflect on God’s will for them. gratitude: Gratitude to God for this grace-filled The depth of some of their sharing was so pro- opportunity; to my superiors for entrusting me found. I am humbled by their gift of trust. this precious ministry; to all the priests, religious My own vocation was enriched by their desire sisters and brothers, and laypeople who wel- to answer God’s call and their willingness to com- comed me into their parishes, schools, and youth mit to a life of service to God and the Church. gatherings; and above all, to all the young men Listening to a young man with the courage and who willingly accepted the challenge of seriously desire to follow Christ is always a boost to my pursuing a missionary vocation. own commitment; it is so refreshing to see that young people are willing to embark on a journey Editor’s note: We can all help vocations by similar to mine. Many a time they reminded me of praying for them and for the priests, like Fr. my own vocational journey, and I felt refreshed to Romo, who are in the field. Support your parish continue my own journey with God. vocations committee if it has one. If it does not, It was a blessing to relate with the young think about establishing one. Also, we welcome people who consider their spirituality very impor- Fr. Adam MacDonald to the Vocations Office tant and want to live a meaningful life; a life that team and pray for his success in guiding men will impact the world and make it a better place. who are listening to God’s call in their life. Page 7 CAMARADERIE AND FRIENDSHIP AT TECHNY continued from page 3

dormitory. That was a sad night for a lot of members who worked there, but thankfully, no one was hurt or died in the fire. When I first came to Techny at the age of 14, I was quite homesick and told Fr. Nowicki that I wanted to go back home. He said he would get a train ticket for me (we didn’t fly in those days) and to come Brother candidates at the class reunion in June 2010. Front back later in the week. row (l to r): Jim Steilen ’62; Jim Rademacher ’60; Jim McCarty I went to his office a week later. ’60; Ken Schenk ’60; Ken Kolbeck ’60; Jim Amatore ’60; Roy To my disappointment, he said that Singleton ’58. Back row (l to r): John Soltau ’60; Rich Bushu he forgotten to buy the ticket and ’60; Dan Hourihane ’60; Ed Stachon ’60; Tom Kiene ‘61. said he would have it in a few days. When I returned, he had another excuse, and this kept going a few more times until I finally gave up and started getting to know other students and took an interest in school and other activities. Fr. Nowicki knew what he was doing, and I remained a brother candidate all four years and graduated in 1960 with nine other classmates. We had our 50th class reunion this past summer. All of Freshmen Class of 1955 (l to r): Rich Dickherber, Jerome my classmates were able to come Westhoff, Jim McCarty, Ken Kolbeck, Ken Bauer, Jim Dagnon, to Techny for it, except one. Ber- Rich Kintzley, and Jim McManus on bridge at Techny. nie Leis had passed away the previous year. Although I left the brotherhood after three years in vows, I have never regretted my years at Techny and the friendships that I have developed with fellow students, brothers, priests and seminarians. Above all, I’ve learned to have a closer relationship with God, His Church and the sacraments. I married a wonderful woman, Diane, and we have a son and a daughter from our marriage. So far, we have two grandchil- dren and maybe will have more in the future. I am forever grateful for all God has done for me and for my Fr. Leo Hotze and Ken Kolbeck pose for a photo on Family years in the Society of the Divine Feast Day in 1956. Word at Techny. Page 8 The Big Class of 1960 celebrates big at Techny By Mo Donovan Article reprinted from the SVD Alumni East Newsletter Judy Hadalski Alumni gathered at Miramar for their annual meeting on Oct. 7 and 8, 2010. Among them were three SVD golden jubilarians: Frs. Joe Connolly, Jack Farley and Ray Hannah. We were probably the largest SVD class in the authors of books that have been translated and United States and perhaps one of the greatest. We reprinted in several languages, and as editors in- graduated from the five SVD minor seminaries in volved in pioneering the editing and publishing of 1950 with 82, entered the two novitiates with 73, a national newspaper. Epworth College with 55 (joined by two Austra- Many of the other classmates, with the won- lian students), Philosophy with 47 (43 at Techny derful SVD training, are married and devoted to and 4 at Bay St Louis) and 33 were ordained in- wonderful wives and families, and some have cel- cluding six additional foreign students who joined ebrated their 50th wedding anniversary during the the class in first-year Theology. past couple years. Some had wonderful careers In early January 2010, we began planning the and high positions in private and government 50th Ordination Anniversary Celebration/ Re- work and have been quite active in parish minis- union held in July. In preparation for the reunion tries and related organizations, such as schools, most of the class members provided their life his- St. Vincent de Paul Society, Knights of Columbus, tories or highlights. SVD Alumni Association and others. The class has/had ordained members who Attending the July 2010 SVD Jubilarian Cele- have labored in Africa, the Philippines, Taiwan, bration were 15 of the 16 living SVD classmates— China, India, Japan, Papua New Guinea, Australia, Fr. Charlie Russell was unable to attend from Canada, the United States, the Caribbean, United Australia due to poor health—and the following Kingdom, Italy and Ireland. Its members were two-day special class reunion along with six other elected and served as provincials, rectors, presi- classmates and wives and guests. dents and teachers in prestigious university and The former celebration was outstanding, but missionary institutes. the special reunion of the big class was icing on And one, Dominic Carmon, was consecrated the cake and was probably a first time that former a bishop and served with distinction in the classmates and their wives attended a golden ju- African-American apostolate. Others have made bilee at Techny. The event included a special Eu- a name for the SVD in the field of formation edu- cation, of marriage and family counseling, and as Continued on page 10 Page 9 THE BIG CLASS OF 1960 continued from page 9

charistic service in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit Much of the time was spent socializing and at Techny, a wonderful banquet (topped reminiscing of the great times that we had to- by wine provided by Bill Klug), a Power Point pre- gether. We viewed many photos during a Power sentation, a special memorial Mass, and lots Point presentation from our seminary days and of socializing and great meals. Not everybody priestly or family years. And we enjoyed sitting was recognized at first sight, but by the time we around talking and hearing about all the remark- said farewell, we had shared not just the high- able things that the big class has done and hum- lights of the past 50 years but memories from the bly realizing that these were the things expected road that we had walked together and on which of us. we learned much about life before we parted on To help retain our memories, Fr. Ed Herberger separate journeys. prepared copies of two computer discs of the 26 The memories we will always have with us, classmates’ curricula vitae and the Power Point but one of the special events was attending the presentation for the attendees to take back with Sunday afternoon Mass, celebrated by our own them. It was a celebration never to be forgotten, Bishop Dominic Carmon, SVD, and concelebrated and we are thankful to Don Geisler for organizing by the other SVD classmates. The bishop, priests, the reunion. a couple of sisters and other lay guests all gathered in the sanctuary of the beautiful Holy Spirit Alumni who contributed to this article Chapel, joining in prayer and thanksgiving. include Fr. Joe Connolly, Bill Baker, Don As one SVD classmate recalled, “It was the Geisler, Fr. Larry Nemer and Fr. Bob Riemer. very place, where we received Orders, and after fifty years we returned to make, as it were, a re- For those of you living anywhere near Boston port.” There was no fanfare, just an honest admis- and Duxbury, please consider joining these men sion at the altar that we tried our best wherever for the reunion in September 2011. If you want we were, with the support of each other. Also a to extend your stay, there is no limit to vaca- memorial Mass, celebrated the next morning, was tion ideas in the surrounding area—Plymouth, very inspiring as we recalled the death of 11 or- Mass.; Cape Cod; Boston; whale watching; and dained and other deceased classmates. even a drive into Vermont for the fall colors.

Statistics of probably the largest SVD class in the USA (REVISED) 1950 1950 1952 1954 1960 OCT ’10 Conesus/ High School Techno Epworth (BSL)/Techny (BSL)/Techny Living SVD Graduates Novitiate Philosophy Ordination Members Girard 29 25 21 18(2) 11(1) 5 Miramar 25 22 14 11 7 3 Bordentown 8 8 6 4(1) 2(1) 0 East Total 62 55 East Troy 16 15 11 11 5 4 Bay St Louis 4 3 1 1(1) 1(1) 1* West Total 20 18 Foreign Members 2** 2** 7*** 3 Totals 82 73 55 47(4) 33(3) 16 *Fr Dominic Carmon was ordained a Bishop on Feb 11, 1993. **Two Australians joined the class at Epworth, McEwen left after 1st yr Theology and Russell was ordained at Techny ***Six Foreign Seminarians joined the class for Theology in 1956 and were ordained at Techny. Of the 33 ordained classmates 12 left the Priesthood, of which 6 are deceased. Of the remaining 21 priests, 5 are deceased. Chart prepared by Don Geisler. Page 10 Girard-Pittsburgh gathering 2010 This year’s crowd was a little thin for atten- Ed Marti, Mike Vereb and their wives drove in dance at the Holiday Inn in the Oakland section of for the morning from Columbus and Erie, respec- Pittsburgh, but it did not stop anyone from enjoy- tively. It was good to see them after 45 years. ing themselves. Later that afternoon, the group walked up the The weekend began with the traditional hill to the SVD house, where Fr. Ray Hober cele- visit to the Georgetowne Inn at the top of Mt. brated Mass for us and later joined us for the eve- Washington, overlooking downtown Pittsburgh ning dinner at the hotel. Discussion that evening and the convergence of the Monongahela and centered around the low alumni attendance. The Allegheny rivers to form the beginning of the participants made suggestions for other places great Ohio River. and offered ideas for improvement. The restaurant has a full view and wrap- Hershey, Penn., was mentioned as a location around picture windows. As the sun went down for a future reunion, as were some state parks and the lights came on, the scene was a master- around Pittsburgh. For breakfast, 12 participants piece of color. gathered for one last shared meal and goodbye Saturday marked the opening day of the Vati- until next year. can Art Exhibit at the Senator John Heinz History In 2011, we will move the event to Seven Center in downtown Pittsburgh. While tickets Springs Mountain Resort, which is about a one- were hard to get, Mike Cousins used his influence hour drive from Pittsburgh. John Rosenbaum to get us in on opening day. and the Class of 1961 are organizing the event The art fascinated and whetted our appetites for the weekend of July 15-17. to travel to Rome and visit the Vatican Museum. Come join us. For more information, go to In addition, the Diocese of Pittsburgh gathered www.divineword.org/become_involved/ a number of pieces of historic interest from the upcoming_events.aspx. To take advantage of the early years of the Catholic Church in Pittsburgh. alumni group rate discount, make your room They were stunning in their craftsmanship of reservations by June 15, 2011. wood and gold. The beautiful SVD house is located in the historic district of Pittsburgh.

Seated (left to right): Fr. Ray Hober, Al Ding- man. Standing (left to right): Mike Cousins, Bill Rossiter, Bill Pappas, Larry Jones, Bob Winter, Ed Marti.

From left to right: Bob Winter, Bill Rossiter, Mike and Joan Vereb, Ed and Jane Marti, Anita Jones, Kathy Cousins meet for the Vatican museum tour.

Page 11 West Virginia Mission Experience 2010 Often we try to express in words our experiences of working in Jamaica or West Virginia. This year perhaps pictures can best express what goes on during the West Virginia Mission Experience.

Our yearly adventure begins as we arrive from We arrive on Sunday and gather in friendship many different states and directions. before the work begins the next day.

We are not alone as we share the week with Catholic youth from the Diocese of Wheeling- Charleston. This activity is their annual summer service project, sponsored by the diocese.

Page 12 Adding a handicapped ramp was one of the Plumbing below the trailer had to be replaced. projects that we tackled this week.

Of course, we leave things cleaner than what we At the end of the week, we all were proud of found as we power wash the replaced siding. what we had accomplished, handling different projects.

The annual West Virginia Mission Experience is always the last full week in June. If you are interested, email or call Mike Cousins. Make it soon because we fill up fast.

We say goodbye to each other as we head back to our cars and homes in various states. Page 13 East Troy Picnic 2010 By Mike Cousins

In the year 2010, about 60 people attended the food, and topped off with a Mass celebrated up- East Troy Picnic on the last Saturday in June. Dur- stairs in the boathouse. ing that traditional weekend, many alumni and If you haven’t been to East Troy in a few years, their family members arrive on Friday to camp out please plan on joining us this year on Saturday, on the hill and share a meal in the boathouse. June 25, 2011. Refreshments and grills will be pro- This year as in years past, Saturday was filled vided, so bring your willingness to enjoy a good with boat rides, swimming, canoeing, food, more time by the lake. See ya!

Page 14 Editor’s Note: In addition to the alumni association-organized East Troy Picnic, East Troy alumni gathered at Techny to celebrate milestones. (See “East Troy Class of ’59 celebrates 50th in 2010” and “Camaraderie and friendship mark time at Techny.”) In the newsletter, we have given space to this story, too, because the alumni association’s goal is to help you stay in touch not only through “official” gatherings but also in other ways. If you have a story to tell about a get-together, we’d love to hear about it. Please send your story to Mike Cousins at [email protected]. East Troy Class of ’59 celebrates 50th in 2010 Some people might ask, why did the Class of Two had gone to their eternal reward and the 1959 celebrate a 50th reunion in 2010? The East 13 who did attend had previous commitments Troy Class of 1959 learned math better than it ap- that resulted in some classmates leaving before pears. The truth is that we wanted our celebration others arrived. to include two of our classmates, Rev. Ronald The bonds of friendship among our 13 class- “Kofi” Lange, SVD, and Rev. David Streit, SVD. mates, friends of the East Troy Class of ’59 and Kofi and Dave were unable to arrange their teachers had remained strong. home leave last year. We are proud of them as The conventional reputation of ho-hum they perform God’s work as missionary priests, a reunions—where braggadocio over personal goal that all of our 18 classmates aspired to do 51 accomplishments and attitudes of been-there- years ago. done-that prevail—was virtually absent. The ca- The initial stages of planning began three maraderie among our participants was awesome. years prior to the event by a self-appointed com- Memories of past times shared in high mittee of three (actually appointed by the afore- school—and later for some—was enhanced by mentioned classmates when they were on their memorabilia consisting of yearbooks, pictures previous home leave). and pre-Vatican II prayer books (some of which We sent out a heads-up communication to were in Latin). We shared memories as if they those whose snail mail and/or e-mail addresses happened just yesterday. were in our personal files and the SVD Alumni As- All in all, it was apparent that the SVD spirit of sociation’s database, asking all to help us locate six “in Verbo” is a strong part of our lives. We even of our classmates whose addresses we didn’t have. appreciated the pride that Kofi felt when Ghana’s Six months or so prior to the event, Kofi and soccer team defeated the USA team in the 2010 Dave were able to synchronize the timing of World Cup. He beamed. their home leaves, and planning for the detailed It might be mentioned that some monetary logistics began in earnest. At that point in time, overages from charges established early in the not much was known, but the budget had to be planning stages, accompanied by unsolicited established because Techny Towers Conference donations during the event, resulted in our being and Retreat Center, our reunion’s anchor loca- able to contribute a “few nickels” to the work of tion, required commitments for food and lodging classmates who are priests. In the true SVD spirit, in advance. Dave, who works at the Society of the Divine It was a good thing that planning began well in Word’s Collegio del Verbo Divino in Rome ceded advance. Even though most of our classmates are his share of the nickels to Kofi, whose mission is retired, three of our class of 18 couldn’t attend. in Ghana, Africa.

Page 15 Jamaica 2010 By Jim Czarkowski

Snow was hampering some flights in the Mid- Frank Power—each had a particular gift: guitar, west on Feb. 9, 2011, as five of us from around the computers, words. They were always there, open, country began our journey to Jamaica. My butter- building community. I am sure St. Paul would be flies were in my stomach, but as we took off, they proud of us all. passed and a sense of being in the right time and place in my life took over. February 10 In Miami, I met up with fellow alumnus Rich Work began on a house for two ill, elderly Schumacher. As we chatted, I truly felt that this women. I was amazed at the flow of work, team- mission experience would be a family experience. work and smiles. Yes, you felt the sweat in that Our landing in Jamaica began well. tropical world, the blisters, and a little exhaus- The sun, blue skies, smiling Jamaicans and tion, but the spirit of working together and the finally the face of a smiling Brother Bernie Spitz- dream of seeing a better place to live overcame ley contributed to the sense of a great beginning. any hardships. Rich and I met up with other SVD alumni—Henry After we completed the day’s work, we re- Pinson and Ken Shenk. turned to the SVD compound. Back at the rectory, Later that day, we made it to the SVD residence the spirit of cooperation and teamwork was still in Morant Bay. The residence, convent, and church in place. We cooked dinner, cleaned dishes, and overlook the town with Blue Mountain in the dis- began an evening of sharing. tance and the ocean coast a few blocks away. In the evening, our newly formed family—a February 11 mix of alumni, friends and Divine Word Mission- We completed the final touches to the founda- aries—shared stories and concerns. The Divine tion by mixing and pouring the concrete. Our col- Word Missionaries—Yohanes Lunga Bally and laboration manifest Brother Bernie’s philosophy: Page 16 work with the people not for the people. After curately to finish the house. the work, we drove along the coast, back to the Finally, a beautiful, attractive, well-built, yel- rectory, where a good shower and evening fellow- low home stood next to the poor shelter that it ship awaited us. There was still much work to be replaced. The new owners found some scrap ma- done, but we were in the sun, blue skies, tropical terials, which Brother Bernie turned into a new plants, Jamaican smiles and found time for reflec- chair for the new home. tion, rest, and community. February 14 February 12 The day began with Mass and a swim closer to On this day of rest, we drove to the beach the residence. I again enjoyed the saltwater, tropi- and Port Antonio, where we relaxed and played cal flora, fellowship and a good meal. Later that the tourist. I amazed myself. I thought I was too day, we attended a youth festival at one of the old to swim, but I found my swimming skills re- outstations, where the alumni sold popcorn and emerge. It was a day to soak up the tropical world water and listened to the local talent. and its splendor; the saltwater, which some say is We were truly with the people as we drove healing; fellowship; and a fine meal. Of course, we down the poor roads, picking up parishioners also bought a few souvenirs. along the way and holding on to the bed of the truck as we bounced along, finally arriving at February 13 the outstation. It seemed like a miracle as we watched the finished house take shape. The house building crew worked with professional precision, each one knowing his role and working quickly and ac- Continued on page 18 Page 17 JAMAICA 2010 continued from page 17

February 15 Our last active day in Jamaica. Brother Bernie Brother Bernie and visited the Bob Marley Mu- was busy with his regular Monday work, talking seum, where I was introduced to his music, his with locals about their needs. Later that day, legacy and his efforts to promote Jamaican Reg- we visited some shut-ins. Mrs. B. is an elderly gae music. woman who lives in taxing conditions near a Yes, Jamaica has a mix of problems and garbage dump. Despite being homebound, she is hopes; some are very similar to problems and a peacemaker. In her own words, she said “I have hopes that people share in parts of the United peace within.” States. Innocents being murdered and corruption She reminded me of the great lady whom we plagues different levels of government, but I was honor in my hometown of Battle Creek, Mich. never exposed to any of this. The courageous Sojourner Truth, who could not I will always hold onto the spirit of Brother read, professed the Gospels, proclaimed hope and Bernie’s words “with the people” and also the Bob showed spiritual power that one never forgets. I Marley-inspired theme that many people think of hope the spirit of Mrs. B. will rub off on me. when they think of Jamaica: Smile Jamaica. In conclusion, I want to say thanks to the SVD February 16 Alumni Association. I can only imagine the hours The final day had arrived, and we all got in spent defining the mission, planning, organizing the van and drove to the airport, where we logistics and thinking through the nuts and bolts said our goodbyes. We shared a final meal with of day-to-day operations. A wholehearted thanks.

Page 18 Getting our bearings at the 2010 Annual Techny Golf Outing and Steak Cookout

Monday, June 7, 2010, was a unique day for While we could write a treatise on the finer golfers at the Willowhill Golf Course in North- points of our golfers and analyze their scores brook, Ill. That was the day that 15 men met at and swings, suffice it to say that many of us were the top of the hill to decide who had the right to there to play at golf. There were a few who took call themselves golfers. the game seriously and managed to hit their balls For those of you who have never been to straight while the majority of us, at one time or Willowhill, it is a nine-hole course laid out on top another, could be found stomping through the of a landfill. Every year brings a slightly different weeds and rough in the hopes that we could find experience as the tee boxes shift. Trying to find at least our lost ball if not a few more. a flat place to stand and tee off is sometimes As the golfers finished up and scorecards were a challenge. handed in, we headed down to the grounds by One major redeeming characteristic of Wil- Techny’s novitiate building, where many hands lowhill is that on a clear day, you can see all of made for quick setup. The coolers with refresh- the downtown Chicago skyline, which is 20 miles ments were the first to arrive. away. It is an impressive sight. As you turn away We fired up the grills, and steaks sizzled as the from downtown, the twin towers of Techny su- rest of the food and alumni arrived. By the time perimpose themselves in your view and dominate all of the steak had been cooked, our attendance everything in the area. had reached 40 men and women.

Think about joining us this year on Monday, June 6, at Willowhill Golf Course. A great steak cookout will follow on the Techny grounds. For more information, go to the Chicago Province website: www.divineword.org/become_involved/upcoming_events.aspx.

Page 19 Page 20 Requiescat in Pacem Remembering our Deceased Alumni

April 3, 2010 richard Elwart (East Troy, Epworth) April 8, 2010 Sanders Darbonne (St. Augustine, Epworth, CTU and Techny) April 15, 2010 Brother Herman (Thomas) Joseph June 12, 2010 Fr. Elzear (Al) Gehlen June 14, 2009 Fr. Gilbert Gawlik July 26, 2010 Fr. Kenneth Feehan Aug. 9, 2010 Fr. Anthony Hemphill Aug. 18, 2010 Fr. Francis Bures Sept. 11, 2010 Fr. George Artis Nov. 15, 2010 Leonard “Lenny” Sears (Miramar) Dec. 12, 2010 Bishop Raymond Kalisz Dec. 18, 2010 Archbishop John Bukovsky

Full obituaries of the Chicago Province Divine Word Missionaries can be found at www.divineword.org/news/obituaries.aspx. As you read the names, please say a prayer for all of the members of the Society of the Divine Word and the SVD Alumni Association who have passed away. May their souls rest in peace!

Memories of Bishop Kalisz By Richard Wolff

Fr. Steve Bevans, SVD, sent me news of Bishop Raymond “Zeke” Kalisz’s death yesterday. I spent much of the day remembering my time with Zeke. We spent a year together on Kairiru Island, which is about three miles long and one mile wide. The minor seminary was on the island. The bishop at the time, Leo Arkfeld, SVD, somehow conned me into joining Zeke there. He flew to my parish one day and suggested that he fly me to Kairiru since I hadn’t been there before—just to have a look see. I quickly packed a bag. He flew me there and then flew off without me! That was how you got new assignments with Bishop Arkfeld. Zeke Kalisz was an amazing man. It took him (and the students) six years to build a hydroelec- tric scheme on the island. One of the joys of being

Continued on page 22 Page 21 BISHOP KALISZ continued from page 21

there is that you could have power 24/7 and hot his journey. He suggested that we stop at a res- showers. Nowhere else in Wewak had that luxury. taurant near the airport for lunch. Then he asked We had our own herd of cattle, so we had me to pay for it as he only had traveler’s checks in fresh milk and ate lots of beef. When a cow got U.S. dollars and didn’t want to cash one in. too old for milking, Zeke would get out the shot- About five months later, I picked him up at gun, shoot and hang it. The next day, he butch- the airport on his return. We stopped at the same ered it. The meat required a lot of stewing, but we restaurant–again he asked me to pay. He only had had the freshest meat in the diocese. traveler’s checks. When it was announced that Zeke had been He had taken $2,000 with him on the five- named a bishop, he phoned me in Port Moresby month trip around the world. During that trip, a few days before the Episcopal ordination. He he cashed in only one $100 check, and he was asked me to meet Vic O’Dea at the airport. Vic upset with himself because he couldn’t remember was the father of one of the Mercy Sisters who where he had spent it. was on Kairiru Island at the same time that I was Zeke was Mr. Fix-It. Nothing was ever thrown there. Vic was coming up for the ordination, and out – ever. He could fix or repair anything. He Zeke had asked him to bring him a pair of shoes. also was one of the widest read, most intelligent Zeke only wore thongs or sandals. He had no men whom I have ever known. He could talk shoes to wear for his ordination. knowledgeably on any topic that was brought up. Some months after he was ordained a bishop, He had a vast knowledge of the history of fine art. he went on a world trip: Rome, the United States, He kept up to date in theology and philosophy. etc. He spent a few days at the major seminary in And he was a very gentle person with an infec- Bomana, outside of Port Moresby before he left. tious laugh. He was a warm and kind man. I have I was teaching there at the time. I drove him to many fond memories of him and have enjoyed the airport to catch a flight to Australia to begin mulling over them these past two days.

Upcoming events for 2011 The SVD Alumni Association has planned several events across the eastern half of the United States. For more information about the events below, go to www.divineword.org/become_involved/ upcoming_events.aspx. If you want to help plan a new reunion, contact SVD Alumni Director Mike Cousins at (888) 276-6536.

June 6 Annual Techny Golf Outing and Steak Cookout

June 19-26 West Virginia Mission Experience

June 25 East Troy Picnic

July 15-17 Pittsburgh Reunion

July 22-24 Perrysburg Reunion in Frankenmuth, Mich.

September 22-23 Miramar Reunion

October 1 Bordentown Reunion (NEW!)

October 7-9 Bay St. Louis Reunion

November 12 Techny Dinner and Mass Page 22 Message from Bay St. Louis Dear Fellow Alumni: I am writing to remind every one of the meeting of the St. Augustine Seminary Alumni Association, scheduled for Oct. 7-9, 2011. It has been customary that we start with a social on Friday evening and conclude after brunch on Sunday. However, the agenda for the reunion is open. You may send agenda items in advance of the October meeting. We have a list of alumni contacts available. We need to work diligently to reach as many as pos- sible for a successful reunion in 2011. Let us come to the October meeting with open minds and with a resolve to do what is required of us to make the “Partners of the Divine Word” campaign a reality in the U.S. Southern Province. Feel free to contact us: St. Augustine’s Main Office St. Augustine Alumni Association 199 Seminary Drive Bay St. Louis, MS 39520-4626 Phone: 228-467-6414

James “Billy” LaChapelle President of the St. Augustine Seminary Alumni Association P. O. Box 235 Raywood, TX 77582-0235 E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Phone: (936) 587-4939 or (936) 776-0141

Winfield Ledet Vice President of the St. Augustine Seminary Alumni Association Clifton Carmon Secretary of the St. Augustine Seminary Alumni Association E-mail: [email protected] Fr. Walter Bracken, SVD SVD Liaison to the St. Augustine Seminary Alumni Association Thank you for your prayers & support! James F. “Billy” LaChapelle President of the St. Augustine Seminary Alumni Association

Page 23 Non-Profit Organization SVD Alumni Association U.S. POSTAGE Society of the Divine Word PAID P.O. Box 6038 Northbrook, IL Techny, IL 60082-6038 PERMIT NO. 251

New ways stoee staypage 6informed!

Mission Statement The primary goal of the SVD Alumni Association is to keep our spirit of community and fellowship alive. As extended family of St. Arnold Janssen, we: Participate in the SVD Mission By promoting vocations By sponsoring mission experiences By praying for missionaries around the world Promote Togetherness By sponsoring regional gatherings By publishing newsletters By hosting a website Offer Opportunities for Spiritual Renewal By conducting recollections and retreats By encouraging prayer for one another By writing spiritual reflections in the newsletter By sharing spiritual reflection on the website