CJ_0809:Layout 1 - Capuchin Franciscans, Province of St. Mary

Transcription

VOLUME VII, ISSUE III • FALL 2009
the
Capuchin Journey
CAPUCHIN MISSION AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
Learning
by Listening
to those we serve
Capuchin
Service in
Yonkers, NY
Farming &
Ministering
in Tanzania
The start of a new school year means different things to so many different
people. For households with children, it is a hectic time when youngsters
busily put together school clothes, shop for books and supplies and wonder
what their teachers will be like. Older students speculate about intense
class schedules while eagerly looking forward to seeing their friends and
participating in sports and other school activities. However, there is always hope
that the new school year will bring fresh insights, teach practical life lessons,
and most of all, intensify the desire to never stop learning.
Fr. Francis J. Gasparik, OFM Cap.
Director
Mission & Development Office
Capuchin Education is a never-ending process. Capuchin Friars never stop
learning. Although the earliest years of a friar’s life most often require formal
classroom and independent studies, the true focus of the time is to set the
foundation for a lifetime of wisdom gained through their ministries, and the
most valuable skill learned is to listen to those they serve. Sometimes the
friars discover their place in education when they are not really looking for it.
Fr. Darius DeVito, our Friar in Focus, found his calling quite by happenstance.
When he was asked to help high school classmates who struggled with math,
he learned from them how much he loved math and how much he loved teaching.
Fr. Charles Sammons wasn’t Catholic when he met St. Francis in a college history
class. Now he is able to present the love of Christ through his inspirational blog
on the internet. Fr. David Couturier believes it is important to carefully study
scripture since scripture is the source of the ideals preached through their
ministries. Alice Sim believes the work of the Capuchins is so essential that she
generously supports the education and formation of the young men who
replace the older friars.
For my brothers and sisters of the Province of St. Mary, I hope the time ahead
brings you the same peace and hope that filled the heart of St. Francis. I hope
you never stop learning how to love and rejoice in all of God’s wondrous and
precious creations. And, I thank you for the kind and generous ways you help
us with the work we do.
Sincerely,
Fr. Francis J. Gasparik, OFM Cap
Our Goal
The goal of the Capuchin Mission Development Office is to fund the domestic and
international mission of the Province of St. Mary. That mission ranges from support of
our own members in the Province to assistance to other Capuchin jurisdictions. The Province of
St. Mary is in the top ten Capuchin jurisdictions in the world for its generous and professional
support to Capuchin foreign missions including the Damietta Initiative, Franciscans International
and the Pontifical Council for Justice Peace and Migrants.
If you are interested in helping with any of these specific needs, please contact
Margaret Cuccinello at (212) 564-0759 ext. 253 or [email protected].
features
Learning by Listening to Those We Serve
Capuchin education through the ages.
8
Magazine of the
Capuchin Franciscans
of the Province of
St. Mary
Editor in Chief
Drew O’Connor
2009 Jubilarians Part II
12
Friars celebrating anniversaries, including a special look at
Cardinal O'Malley.
Capuchin Service in Yonkers, NY
The Sacred Heart Community.
16
23
4
5-7
6
14, 20
Publisher
Fr. Francis J. Gasparik, OFM Cap.
Design/Art Direction
Sabrina Fondren
Forefront Graphics Inc
Photography
Lauren Peltzman
Writers
Michelle McConeghy
Ed Murray
Copy Editor
Margaret Cuccinello
Farming & Ministering in Tanzania
Contributing Editor
Vilana Bedeau
A Report on Current Projects: Farming in
a developing country.
Circulation Director
John Martin
Province Directory
News Notes
Food for Thought
Upcoming Pilgrimages
19
Planned Giving
24
Friar in Focus: Fr. Darius DeVito
27
In Memoriam
Capuchin Communications Office
John Shento, OFM Cap.
Donna Smith Kresel
White Plains, New York 10605
the
Capuchin
Journey
FALL 2009
VOLUME VII, ISSUE II
© 2009 Capuchin Mission
Association & Development Office
Let us know
Serving New York/New England
The Capuchin Journey is our way of letting you know how the
Province of St. Mary fulfills our mission. You, as part of our
community, share this vision of service to those in need and we
want you to see how we use the resources you so generously
provide to us. We hope the contents of The Capuchin Journey
will provide an understanding of the work we do and how
valuable your contributions are to our success.
Central America, Japan, Africa,
Please feel free to write us with your comments and suggestions.
Thank you!
and the mission areas of
India and the Pacific
210 West 31st Street
New York, NY 10001
212-564-0759
www.capuchin.org
Province Mission
The needs of the poor and the demands
of justice shape our every ministerial
endeavor. We attempt to promote the
equality of all people within our fraternity,
in the churches dedicated to the gospel of
Christ and in the larger world. Capuchin
friars minister in a wide variety of settings.
Service to people of a variety of cultures
in North America and around the globe
have allowed us to witness God at work
in countless ways.
Here in the Northeast United States,
the Province of St. Mary serves through
any number of institutions dedicated to
the service of real human needs and
the proclamation of God’s love. Urban,
suburban and rural; poor, blue collar and
middle class; Latino, Asian and Englishspeaking – the friars can be found living
amid all of these diverse circumstances.
Capuchin Charisms:
FRATERNITY of the friars joins
them in their common goals and
taps into their unique talents to
most efficiently operate their
own community as well as the
communities they serve.
MINORITY has enabled them to
walk with the people they serve and
be accepted as one of their own.
CONTEMPLATION requires they
set aside time to reflect upon the
progress and direction of their
mission and to listen for God’s
guidance in their mission.
MINISTRY has led the Capuchins
to appeal to and often allay the
hunger, despair and loneliness of
those among whom Christ would
have walked.
JUSTICE, PEACE AND ECOLOGY
are uniquely Capuchin because an
essential part of the mission of
St. Francis was to strive for all of
God’s creation to live in peace
and harmony.
4
Province Directory
PROVINCE OFFICE
DIRECTORY
St. Pius X Friary & Parish
St. Pius X Friary and Parish
310 Westfield Street
Middletown, CT 06457-2047
Phone: 860-347-4441
St. Clare Friary
110 Shonnard Place
Yonkers, NY 10703
Phone: 914-423-2392
Capuchin Vocation Office
34 South Chestnut Street
New Paltz, NY 12561-1914
Phone: 845-255-5680
STAR OF THE SEA
VICE PROVINCE
St. Fidelis Friary
135 Chalan Kapuchino
Agana Heights, Guam 96910
Phone: 671-472-6339
St. Joseph Friary & Parish
34 South Chestnut Street
New Paltz, NY 12561-1914
Phone: 845-255-4892
Capuchin Mission Association
& Development Office
210 West 31 Street
New York, NY 10001-2876
Phone: 212-564-0759
St. Joachim Friary
Capuchin Franciscans
61 Leonard Street
Beacon, NY 12508
Phone: 845-838-0000
Good Shepherd Friary & Parish
608 Isham Street
New York, NY 10034
Phone: 212-567-1300
St. Lawrence Friary
180 Sargent Avenue
Beacon, NY 12508-3992
Phone: 845-831-0394
Our Lady of Sorrows
Friary & Parish
213 Stanton Street
New York, NY 10002
Phone: 212-475-2321
St. Michael Friary
225 Jerome Street
Brooklyn, NY 11207-3209
Phone: 718-827-6990
St. John Friary and Parish
210 West 31 Street
New York, NY 10001-2876
Phone: 212-564-9070
St. Joseph The Worker
Friary & Parish
510 Narragansett Avenue
East Patchogue, NY 11772-5132
Phone: 631-286-7921
St. Joseph Friary & Parish
673 Stevens Avenue
Portland, ME 04103
Phone: 207-797-7026
Capuchin Youth
& Family Ministry
781 Route 9D
P O Box 192
Garrison, NY 10524
Phone: 845-424-3609
St. Fidelis Friary
7790 County Road 153
Interlaken, NY 14847-9648
Phone: 607-532-4423
San Lorenzo Friary
15 Montebello Road
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130-2352
Phone: 617-983-1919
CUSTODY OF JAPAN
St. Francis Friary and Parish
1 Aza Oroku
Naha City, Okinawa
Japan 901-0152
Phone: 011-81-98-857-3795
Saitama Capuchin Residence
2-115 Suehiro
Kumagaya City, Saitama
Japan 360-0031
Phone: 011-81-48-521-1098
St. Peter Friary & Parish
134 Convent Ave.
Rutland, VT 05701
Phone: 802-775-1994
St. Conrad Friary
30 Gedney Park Drive
White Plains, NY 10605-3599
Phone: 914-761-3008
Sacred Heart Friary and Parish
110 Shonnard Place
Yonkers, NY 10703-2228
Phone: 914-963-1357
Saitama Capuchin Residence
CENTRAL AMERICA –
GENERAL VICE PROVINCE OF
NUESTRA SENORA DE LA
ESPERANZA (GUATEMALA,
EL SALVADOR, HONDURAS)
Franciscanos Capuchinos
Friary and Parish
San Jose
Honduras, Central America
Phone: 011-504-653-3353
St. Anne-St. Augustin
Friary & Parish
383 Beech Street
Manchester, NH 03103-7290
Phone: 603-623-8809
Curia Viceprovincial
Friary and Parish
Fraternidad El Calvario
Chiquimula, Guatemala
Central America
Phone: 011-502-942-0467
St. Francis of Assisi Friary
46 Brookside Avenue
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130-2370
Phone: 617-522-6469
Sacred Heart Friary & Parish
The Capuchin Journey • Fall 2009
Capuchin Youth & Family Ministries
2009 Appalachian Mission Trip
Br. Ross Chamberlain (left) serving food
with two CAM’ers
Fr. Fred Nickle speaking
Each day, participants rose by 6:30am, and
began Morning Prayer at 7am. After breakfast,
the CAM’ers split into different groups and went
to work. Five groups departed for manual labor
projects on local homes. These groups worked to
install windows and doors, repair roofs, build
decks, and undertake general maintenance on
area homes in need. Two vans left each day (one
full of participants, and one full of supplies)
Outreach group with Fr. Fred
for social outreach ministries. They provided
clothing and various goods for over 130 families!
A large group of participants stayed on the
property of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, so that
they could provide over 50 area children a stellar
Vacation Bible School program each day. Some
remained behind to clean, shop and cook for the
overall CAM community.
Each night, after dinner, participants broke
into Theological Reflection Groups for quiet
journaling and open sharing on the graces and
challenges of the day, a vital component to the
program. Afterward, the groups gathered in the
Church to celebrate the Eucharist.
When the week was drawing to a close, the
CAM'ers had the opportunity to stand up and
give witness to the graces they experienced. The
deep and heartfelt words of the participants
ensure that they will return home forever
changed by Capuchin Youth & Family Ministries.
Manual labor project on a local home
NEWS NOTES
From July 11-19, Brother Ross Chamberlain,
Father Fred Nickle and Brother Lake Herman
escorted almost 75 people (23 adults, 49
teenagers) – all coming from 37 different parish
or church communities – to Holy Trinity Parish in
Harlan County, Kentucky, for the Capuchin Youth
& Family Ministries annual Capuchin Appalachian
Mission (CAM) Trip. The goal of the trip is to
participate in the life of Saint Francis of Assisi,
and share in the deeply spiritual tradition of the
Capuchin Order, by serving the needs of this
Appalachian community in a variety of ways.
Br. Lake with Mary Beth,
Cap Corps Volunteer
5
food for thought
“Preach the Gospel at all times and
if necessary, use words.”
Fr. Darius DeVito loved this articulation of
the mission St. Francis designed for his
followers. The Capuchins believe they are
preaching the Word of God through their
ministries. They believe they learn so
much from those they serve.
How can you learn about the Love of Christ
from those you encounter each day?
Sometimes, during the course of our busy
days, we witness random acts of kindness
performed by strangers for strangers.
Most often these happenings last for just
a moment and the strangers move on and
no words are exchanged except, perhaps a
muffled ‘thank you.’ We smile to ourselves
and don’t think of the incident again. But,
perhaps we should pause and take a moment
to think about how much these seemingly
innocuous encounters mean to those directly
involved. The giver is preaching without words
and the receiver has provided him with an
opportunity to serve him, thus demonstrating
the Love of Christ.
Family Barbeque
On July 18, 2009 the Capuchin Food Pantries held their annual Family
Barbeque at the Affinia Manhattan Hotel. Over 500 clients enjoyed this
special summer feast.
The event was sponsored by the Quartararo Family and Jones Lang
LaSalle. Volunteers from Macy’s, the Quartararo Family and Jones Lang
LaSalle lent a helping hand greeting people, serving food and cleaning the
tables for more guests to arrive.
The traditional barbeque meal included hotdogs and hamburgers, baked
beans, corn, potato salad and delicious cookies, while the volunteers were
clad in traditional Western attire topped with cowboy hats.
Country Western music, balloon figures and face painting added to the
young’uns enjoyment. Gifts and prizes were enthusiastically received by
the younger contingent.
How can you further the mission of St. Francis
by performing your own acts of kindness in
simple and silent ways?
Why am I still here when I feel like I am
running so fast?
Often we become frustrated and exhausted
when we work so hard and don’t feel like life
isn’t getting any easier. Or, we feel that time is
flying by and we are not getting any closer to
attaining our goals. Contemplative prayer is an
important part of Capuchin life. It provides private
communication with God without distractions.
It is a holy and calm time that enriches the
spirit and enables them to put life’s challenges
into perspective. We must first learn to listen
to God. Then, we can learn from God and
understand what He wants us to do.
The Family BBQ always brings
family together.
Western-clad volunteers
serve up the vittles.
Face painting was
a big hit.
Joe Sano, Capuchin Food Pantries
Managing Director with Executive
Director Fr. Francis Gasparik and a
few of the 500 guests.
How can you learn to listen to God? Can you
sit quietly for a short while at the end of the
day and try to clear your mind of distracting
thoughts? Would early in the morning be better?
Can you take a quiet walk in the afternoon?
Can you sit by the beach alone? Contemplative
prayer is not easy but it is important. It is one
of the Capuchin Charisms.
The Capuchins are continually learning through
their ministries and God speaks to them and
guides them through those they serve.
What can you learn from those you encounter
each day that will enrich your spirituality?
How can you find ways to serve others and to
live the Gospel without words?
6
Women of Valor Awards Tea
Mann Publications hosted the Capuchin Food Pantries’ Seventh Annual Women of Valor Awards Tea
held at the Waldorf-Astoria on August 6, 2009. Ten extraordinary women were honored for their
outstanding work in the community and contributions to those less fortunate in New York City.
All proceeds benefited the Capuchin Food Pantries, which serves over 4,000 needy families each
week through New York City.
Rita Cosby, veteran TV host, introduced a video sent by the Honorable Kirsten Gillibrand, New York
Senator who had to be in Washington, DC that day and could not personally give her keynote speech.
To view Sen. Gillibrand’s message, please visit www.capuchin.org/events/women_valorteas/current.
Kim L. Bertin of JP Morgan Chase was the guest of honor. The Humanitarian Awards were presented
to Lucy G. Carter, Ted Moudis Associates and Kate Post of Forrest Solutions.
Clarisa Award recipients were Diana Gonzalez, Scripps Networks; Stacey A. Ingle, Moody’s
Corporation; Rebecca M. Mason, Caran Properties; Connie van Rhyn, PepsiCo; Geraldine Walsh,
Grubb & Ellis; Cynthia Wasserberger, Jones Lang LaSalle.
Guest of Honor, Kim Bertin receiving
the Francis Award.
Joe Sano, Capuchin Food Pantries Managing Director,
Rita Cosby, Inside Edition special correspondent,
and Fr. Francis Gasparik, Executive Director.
NEWS NOTES
Women of Valor Honorees (left to right): Connie van Rhyn, Rebecca Mason, Kate Post, Kim Bertin,
Diana Gonzalez, Lucy Carter, Stacey Ingle, and Geraldine Walsh.
7
Learning
by Listening
to those we serve
“Capuchins seek wisdom rooted in life experiences more
aggressively than the abstract genius gained from text
books,” explains Fr. David Couturier, OFM Cap.
Capuchin education is a lifelong pursuit and goes far
beyond formal academic instruction. The friars are
inspired by the brilliant framework for intellectual and
spiritual fulfillment set forth by St. Francis, and they
are inspired by the insights and depths of knowledge
they gain from those they serve.
Capuchins stress the need to listen to people so that they
can learn what they can do to serve them. Fr. David
truly believes that the poor are our first teachers (after
The Holy Spirit). That is why the Capuchins in formation
work for the poor. They learn to listen to the voices of the
poor. When he worked with Franciscans International,
Fr. David brought the oppressed to speak directly to the
diplomats. He knew that those suffering from hunger,
human rights abuses, sexual exploitation, unsanitary
living conditions, etc., would be most effective in
telling their own stories, just as St. Francis preached of
learning so much from the leper.
Fr. David Couturier’s experiences as a university
professor and his working with Franciscans
International have resulted in an expanded view of
Capuchin education including the study of economics
from a Franciscan point of view. However, he also
recognizes the importance of intense study of
Scripture and advanced analysis of Christ’s plans.
Fr. David Couturier at the imposition of
hands during the Ordination of
Fr. Arlen Harris.
8
“Today,” Fr. David says, “the rich don’t see the poor.
The rich tend to live in gated communities and have
become more and more detached from the poor. There
is structured separation of wealth. The gap between
the rich and poor is getting wider.” He has been analyzing
the economic realities of today that the Capuchins face
in their ministries, by going back to study the teachings
of St. Francis and the social conditions of his time.
When they enter the Order, Capuchin friars have come
from very different personal, educational and career
places in their lives. They bring with them an assortment
“There are certain elements that inform the ministry of
education from a Franciscan point of view,” Fr. David
explains. These draw heavily upon Capuchin Charisms.
For example, since God is all good, there is an atmosphere
of the positive in teaching, making it good and exciting.
Education affirms the dignity of all, thus requiring
equality and respect among students, faculty and service
personnel. In addition, the universal brotherhood inherent
in Capuchin Fraternity creates a community of practice
and learning that lessens intimidating competition.
These are among some of the values that Fr. David has
tried to incorporate into his teaching career.
Many Religious Orders are known for the advanced and
sophisticated scholarship required of their members.
Priests and brothers attain extensive formal education and
they maintain some of the most prestigious institutions
of higher learning in the world. They focus on cerebral
writings and intense research and they meticulously study
the works of the most brilliant scholars of The Catholic
Church. These intellectuals continually provide the academic framework and support that is essential as The
Church survives and thrives through changing times.
Fr. Charles Sammons, parochial vicar at the Church
of the Sacred Heart, Yonkers, New York, blesses
animals on the Feast of St. Francis.
continued on page 10
9
Learning by Listening to Those We Serve
of ideas and ideals that are sometimes quite ambitious
and sometimes quite simple, but all share the common
objective of bringing the vision of St. Francis to fruition.
There are several facets to the education of a friar and
each is important in its own way. The education of a
Capuchin requires that each individual friar receive the
formal and informal education necessary for him to
maximize the effectiveness of his ministry. Although
many Capuchins have studied extensively, they identify
themselves by their ministries and stress how much
they learn through those they serve.
Fr. Charles Sammons, OFM Cap. converted to Catholicism
when he was pursuing an undergraduate degree in
psychology. He was baptized and received his First Holy
Communion when he was 20 years old. He says, with
a chuckle, that, ‘he felt like the big dumb kid at the end
of the line’ a few days later when he was confirmed
with the middle school children.
Fr. Charles was introduced to St. Francis in a secular
history class in college and he was very impressed by
his unrelenting desire to help the poor and his deep
desire to encourage others to do the same. He, too,
wanted to dedicate himself to a life where he would be
able to show the goodness of God through his work.
Fr. Charles appreciated the freedom of Capuchins who
defined themselves by their ministries and he began to
see himself as a Capuchin Friar, though he didn’t quite
know how he would serve.
Fr. Charles looks back upon his Formation and appreciates
how very personal it was. He notes that, unlike other
Religious Orders, Capuchin Formation is not ‘cookie
cutter.’ It is not a time for just scholarly growth. Rather,
Capuchin Formation also focuses on the fraternal life of
a friar and draws upon the unique talents of each
individual and how he fits into the diversity of
Capuchin ministries.
Fr. Charles has graduate degrees including one in
Theology and will probably pursue additional formal
studies in the future. However, since complex scholarship
isn’t a focus for a Capuchin friar, he believes the friars
have a sense of freedom. He says, ‘the Capuchins are
about service and not personal achievement,’ and
he wants his accomplishments to be reflected in his
ministries rather than formal degrees.
Br. Michael Loerch, OFM Cap. knew he wanted to work
with the poor. As a young man, he participated in a
volunteer program and lived with the homeless. It was then
that he read a book about St. Francis and understood
how well his ambiguous vision of his own future
meshed with the clear vision of St. Francis. He began
participating in discernment weekends and loved the
Capuchin life he grew to know.
The assortment of Capuchin ministries is often reflected
in the wide range of educational backgrounds and
ongoing pursuits of the friars. Br. Michael has an
undergraduate degree in communications and he has
completed a year of post-graduate study in Pastoral
Ministry. He also spent several months studying
Spanish in Bolivia. He believes there is a need for
cross-cultural communication in Capuchin ministries and
that the flexibility of their formal and informal educational
paths both accommodates and reflects this.
Chaplains Br. Michael Loerch and Rev. Colleen Holby
on the property of Capuchin Youth & Family Ministries
in Garrison, New York, surrounded by residents of
Children’s Village, Dobbs Ferry, New York.
10
Br. Michael believes that the essence of Capuchin
education is learning from those they serve. ‘Hands on
work with real people in real life,’ he says, ‘provides the
most valuable education that can’t be learned in a
BURSES
FOR
CAPUCHINS
Often donors to The Province of St. Mary have been touched
personally by the Capuchins. Sometimes they request
their donations be placed in named funds so that they are
used for particular Capuchin ministries or needs.
Burses are special funds used to cover the costs of
recruitment, education and training of Capuchin
Franciscans. They finance the years of study that prepare
the friars for a lifetime of service.
Many years ago, Alice Sim wanted to know more about
‘the priests who wore the long brown habits.’ “Most people,”
she says, “think that priests only say Mass on Sunday.
They don’t know how much the priests and brothers do in
the community every day.”
Ms. Sim met Fr. Francis 19 years ago when he was a young
priest and she became an active parishioner of St. John the
Baptist Church in Manhattan. She’d come from a culture
where the elderly are revered and she was deeply moved
by the gentle and loving way she saw Fr. Francis work with
the elderly priests in the friary.
Fr. Ramon Frias at Sacred Heart Church,
Yonkers, New York witnessing the Ceremony
of Perpetual Profession.
classroom. “Nothing in a classroom prepares us for our
every-day ministries,” he says, “rather, we learn from
the people we meet and the stories we hear every day.”
Br. Michael understands that Capuchin formation is
a lifelong process. He looks at unique every-day
experiences in ministry, community and prayer as all
part of an ongoing formation/education that enlightens
and transforms the friars and continually guides them
in their lives as followers of St. Francis.
Fr. Raymond Frias, OFM Cap. was a diocesan priest for
eight years before he entered the Capuchin order. His
ministries have often revolved around education. He
taught in a boy’s high school and served as a college
Chaplain. Although he has masters degrees in both
social work and Franciscan studies, he stresses the
ideal of Capuchins learning life’s greatest lessons from
those they serve and teaching primarily by example.
Like Fr. Darius DeVito, OFM Cap., our current Friar in
Focus, Fr. Raymond uses a few simple words to explain
Capuchin education, “...preach The Gospel at all times
and, if necessary, use words.”
Over the years, Ms. Sim
and Fr. Francis have
become friends and
they enjoy talking about
the Capuchins and their
ministries. Many of their
conversations revolve
around the need for
more vocations. Education is very important
in Ms. Sim’s culture and
she understands how
essential the formation
and education are for
young friars who will replace the older Capuchins
in their ministries as Alice Sim with Fr. Flavian Gondos
the elderly friars move in front of Padre Pio in the San
on. She has targeted Giovanni Rotundo
her generous donations
to The Province of St. Mary towards the education and
formation of young friars. “We need young priests so
badly,” she says, “and their Capuchin formation education
is essential for them to do the work they need to do.”
The Province of St. Mary has enabled Ms. Sim to highlight
two very honorable hallmarks of her Singaporian culture,
education and respect for the elderly. She is deeply
grateful for the opportunity to contribute to and thus
become part of the work they do.
Recently Ms. Sim told Fr. Francis about a Japanese
homeless man she’d seen on the street that reminded her
of someone from back home in her country. “Bring him to
me,” Fr. Francis told her. Ms. Sim knows Fr. Francis was
sincere. “I am going to look for him,” she says, “and when
I find him I’m going to try to bring him to Fr. Francis.”
11
PART TWO OF THE SERIES
2009 Jubilarians
In the last issue of Capuchin Journey, we
featured nine Jubilarians celebrating significant
anniversaries in their service of priesthood or
religious life. Here, we present some more men
being honored this year for having selflessly
spent their lives in service to God and man –
including a look at the life and ministry of our
Capuchin brother Seán Patrick Cardinal
O’Malley, Cardinal Archbishop of Boston,
who celebrates 25 years of Episcopal
Ministry this year.
In the Capuchin order, Jubilations occur after
the milestones of 25 years (Silver Jubilee),
50 years (Golden Jubilee) and 60 years
(Diamond Jubilee). Each has responded to
God's call to serve in their own way, but these
friars have, for decades, dedicated themselves
to the physical, intellectual and spiritual growth
of others. Some have been missionaries in foreign
lands; others served in perhaps less glamorous
but necessary ministries. It is their service to
God and to the community that makes these
Jubilee milestones so special.
SEÁN PATRICK CARDINAL O’MALLEY
OFM CAP.
Silver Jubilee
Patrick O’Malley was born to Theodore and Mary
Louise Reidy-O’Malley on June 29, 1944. Patrick, his
sister, and his older brother grew up in South Hills of
Pittsburgh and Reading, PA. Patrick attended Saint
Gabriel and Sacred Heart Elementary Schools.
Named after the famous
fifth-century missionary
to Ireland, young Patrick
O’Malley had dreams of
becoming a missionary to
foreign lands. At the age
of 13 he entered the
Capuchin Franciscan Minor
Seminary of St. Fidelis and
later St. Fidelis College, both
located in Herman, PA.
One of the big reasons he
Cardinal Seán O’Malley
decided to enter the high
school seminary, was that
his chances of becoming a missionary were quite good.
The Pittsburgh-based Capuchin Province of St. Augustine
had missions in Papua New Guinea and Puerto Rico,
and Patrick was encouraged when he learned that
nearly one-third of their friars ministered as foreign
missionaries.
While at St. Fidelis, in addition to studying the traditional
high school subjects, he also studied Spanish, Greek,
German and Hebrew, and was active in the theatre.
Shortly after his 20th birthday, Patrick entered the
Capuchin novitiate of St. Conrad in Annapolis, MD
in 1964, receiving the name Seán in honor of St. John
the Apostle. Frater Seán pronounced simple vows
the following year, and solemn vows three years later,
in 1968.
After graduating from St. Fidelis College Seminary in
Herman, he attended Capuchin College in Washington,
DC and the Catholic University of America. During his
diaconate year, Seán was sent to Easter Island, far off
the coast of Chile, to work with the Rapa Nui Indians.
He had been studying Spanish for some time on his
own and now he happily began learning Rapa Nui.
He was almost certain that he would be going
12
back to Easter
Island after his
ordination.
At the age of
26, in 1970,
Father Seán was
ordained to the
priesthood by
Bishop John B.
McDowell, an
Cardinal O’Malley’s early years in DC.
auxiliary bishop
of Pittsburgh.
He continued his studies, receiving both a Masters degree
in theology from Capuchin College in Washington, DC,
and a Masters in Spanish from Catholic University. Six
years later he would complete his doctoral studies in
Spanish and Portuguese literature, also at Catholic
University. He once said of his alma mater, where he is
presently a member of the Board of Trustees, “I have a
great affection for Catholic University. I studied there,
received my doctorate there and even taught there for
a couple of years (Fr. Seán served as professor at The
Catholic University from 1969-1973). It’s always a joy
to go back to see the progress that they have made.”
In 1973, Fr. Seán was asked to minister to Latinos living
in the DC area. He founded Centro Católico Hispano,
an organization that provides educational, medical and
legal help to immigrants, as well as opened a Spanish
bookstore and started the first Spanish newspaper in
the DC area. In 1974, Seán was named Knight
Commander of the Order of Infante D. Henrique by
Portugal for his service to its people.
In 1978, Cardinal William Wakefield Baum appointed
Fr. Seán episcopal vicar for the Portuguese, Hispanic and
Haitian communities, and he became the executive director of the Archdiocesan Office of Social Ministry as well.
Father Sean was ordained a Bishop on August 2, 1984
at The Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul in St. Thomas,
Virgin Islands by Bishop Edward Harper. While in the
Virgin Islands, he worked with the homeless, and
opened a home for people with AIDS.
The '90s brought Bishop O'Malley to New England,
first installed as bishop of Fall River, Massachusetts
in 1992, where
he first attempted to settle the
sexual abuse
scandal in Fall
River diocese.
In 2002, appointed to Palm
Beach,
FL,
Bishop O'Malley
tried to overcome the abuse Cardinal O’Malley visiting a
school in Boston.
scandal there,
too. He also worked closely with the Portuguese
and Hispanic populations, which make up a large
percentage of the Catholics in the United States.
In 2003, he became the Archbishop of Boston,
succeeding Cardinal Bernard Law, who had resigned
as a consequence of the sexual abuse scandal there.
In addition to changing lawyers and participating in
the negotiating sessions, he won over many of the
bitter victims through his attention, his patience, and
his sensitivity.
Pope Benedict XVI elevated Bishop O'Malley and 14
others to the rank of Cardinal in 2006.
As a Capuchin – the only Capuchin member of the College
of Cardinals, in fact – Cardinal Seán wears the religious
habit of his order for everyday functions, with his status
as a cardinal denoted only by the wearing of the scarlet
zucchetto, the ring and the pectoral cross, the latter of
which he has worn since his days as a Bishop.
Chancery in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.
This August marked the 25th Anniversary of Cardinal
Seán O’Malley’s ordination as a Bishop.
13
CAPUCHIN
JOURNEYS
PILGRIMAGES
2009
Secular Franciscan Heritage Pilgrimage – Rome & Assisi
October 18 –26, 2009
A Secular Franciscan Pilgrimage experience, open also to non-seculars,
to experience the charisma of the Third Order of St Francis and its
heritage while exploring the sites of St. Francis of Assisi.
Cost p/p double occupancy $2,399 (does not include air taxes and
fees). Single supplement: $585.
Our Mother of Perpetual Help – Rome, Italy
December 5 –12, 2009
Join Frs. Francis Gasparik, OFM Cap. and Michael Marigliano, OFM Cap.,
as they lead a Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
in Rome Italy (Home of the Original Miraculous Image).
A week of Prayer in preparation for Christmas and the Celebration of
the Feast of the Immaculate Conception with the Holy Father, Pope
Benedict XVI, at the Piazza di Spagna
Cost p/p double occupancy $2,099 (does not include air taxes and
fees). Single pricing upon request.
2010
The Holy Land – Heritage of Faith
April 7 –16, 2010
HIGHLIGHTS: Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Tiberius, Mt. Carmel, Mt. of
Olives, Via Dolorosa, & The Holy Sepulcher
Join Capuchin Journeys with Fr. Tom Franks OFM Cap. in pilgrimage to
the land of our Christian Heritage.
I have seen places I have only dreamed about. I have seen places I
have only read about. I have seen places I have only prayed about.
Now, I have walked into places where the footsteps of God are deep
and yet new. May I walk the pilgrims way again!
Lourdes & Paris, France
September 12 –20, 2010
Enter in into the mystery of faith through the miraculous blessed spring
and cave where our Lady appeared to St. Bernadette, take the baths in
the miraculous water, join in the procession of the Blessed Sacrament
and the famous Marian Candle Light Procession. Then on to Paris and
visit the other Marian Shrines of Paris along with these famous sites:
The Nevers Convent to pray at the incorrupt body of St Bernadette,
Eiffel Tower, Sacre-Coeur and The Shrine of the Miraculous Medal.
Join Capuchin Journeys with Msgr. David Cassato and Fr. Jamie
Gigantiello in pilgrimage to the France as they celebrate Our Lady.
Contact Carmine Marotta for 2010 pricing.
Carmine Marotta is the Director of our pilgrimage program. For more
information on any of these pilgrimages, please call/e-mail Carmine at
(212) 564-0759 ext. 268, [email protected].
Check his blog at http://capuchinjourney.blog.com.
Pilgrim’s Scrapbook: Summer, Southern Italy and Saints
This past June – one of the grayest, coldest and rainiest on
record – our group of pilgrims left JFK Airport in search of
summer and sun in southern Italy. Our prayers were answered,
as we arrived in Sicily under a full warm bright sun
accompanied by a light, warm, summer breeze coming off
the bay of Palermo.
On this pilgrimage we sought not only the communion of
saints, but to affirm and renew our own faith within that
communion. We were welcomed to the feast day of Taormina's
patron saints, St. Peter and St. Pancras. As Fr. Michael was
finishing Mass in the old town’s church of St. Joseph, a
street band playing festive music outside in the Piazza was
heard through the open church doors and welcomed all
to gather for the Procession of the Saints through the
ancient hilltop town.
In Syracuse, we visited the Shrine of Our Lady of the Tears and
the Cathedral of St. Lucy, which tradition holds was built over
her site of martyrdom. Then we journeyed to Agrigento, a
seaside town in the south also called the Valley of the Temples.
There, we were joined in the communion of saints by St. Leo at
a little village church where the locals stayed around to witness
the American pilgrims celebrate Mass in this remote shrine.
Palermo was our next stop, but before we entered the city we
visited the mountain of the pilgrim to get to know its patron,
another saint venerated in Sicily, Santa Rosilia.
Most Sicilians have visited this shrine, and we joined their ranks
as we ascended the top of the mountain to visit the cave which
tradition holds was the same cave where the young virgin saint
lived the life of a hermit. The cave has been turned into a very
beautiful shrine to God in honor of the little saint of Sicily.
Then it was time to visit the resort of Citta del Mare (“City of
the Sea”), which seemed huge after our tour of smaller towns
and the countryside. It was a place of refreshment, with great
ocean views, good food, swimming pools, water slides, tennis,
dancing under the stars and even a private beach.
Carmine Marotta, Pilgrimage Director
On our trip, many of our pilgrims reconnected to their local roots.
Some even found cousins whom they had never met before. It
was also uplifting to witness, along our journey to commune
with proclaimed saints, that there are saints still living with us.
Our younger pilgrims giving a helping hand to our more senior
pilgrims, for instance. Or the local townsman who, after hearing
about one of our pilgrims trying to find the old family home of
their grandfather, then located a distant relative, resulting in a
visit in their home and an impromptu family reunion. Or when
the luggage of one of our pilgrims was lost for a few days, how
others in the group helped her out with necessities.
The Sicily portion of our trip was full of lessons learned and life
experienced anew. Now it was time for us to continue on to the
mainland, to the town San Giovanni Rotondo. At this home and
shrine of Padre Pio we were given the rare privilege of visiting
the new crypt shrine where St. Pio will be laid to rest.
Here we were brought face to face with a saint as we viewed his
remains in the glass urn, probably for the last time since the body
will soon be enclosed again within the new crypt this coming
September. It was here we walked within a real-life miracle as we
visited and toured the hospital that Padre Pio built through his
prayers and dreams and actions. We witnessed how a simple, poor
priest identified a need and how, through the help of his spiritual
children, a great modern hospital was built on the side of a
mountain and opened to all. We met people who actually knew
Padre Pio and they shared their stories of him, from simple
tales to stories of his wonderful deeds.
The whole journey was a visit to the doors of heaven. It started
with St. Peter and ended at the cave of St. Michael on the Gargano.
In between, we met early martyrs, great bishops, quiet hermits,
simple priests, sweet lay folk and a Mighty Angel. All of them
showed each and every one of us that we are within the Community
of Saints. We had great traveling companions, and know that each
of them came back to share our stories and memories and to
continue being saints to those back home. We found summer, we
found sun, we found saints, and we found God in Southern Italy.
Reflections from our Pilgrims
I want to thank you for a wonderful vacation/
pilgrimage to Sicily and San Giovanni
Rotondo in July. Everyone in the group was
extremely nice. The accommodations were
first rate and most importantly the Capuchin
spirituality was alive and thriving during our
pilgrimage.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Fr. Michael.
His presence was truly a blessing.
I thoroughly enjoyed the trip and look forward
to joining you on other excursions.
Thanks for the memories,
Carol M.
Brooklyn, NY
First let me say, the fact that I went on this pilgrimage was a miracle! All of the
flights (four take-offs and landings) were a joyous experience. I remember feeling
a sense of joy as the planes took off and landed. Truly the grace of God.
All the places we visited were a spiritual experience. We took time to celebrate
the Liturgy each day and pray for all our special intentions. The many sites we
visited increased our faith, as well as our devotions. High in the mountain, we
celebrated Liturgy at the Church of St. Rosalia. I can now appreciate the many
people who have a devotion to this saint. St. Pio’s exhumed body, the tour of
the Hospital he had built for the suffering was an inspiration. Needless to say,
the picturesque tours through Sicily, the hotels, the places we stopped for
luncheons and celebrations were most enjoyable.
I am deeply grateful to the Lord, the Capuchins, Bove Travel, generous friends
and my Dominican Community for making this trip a miracle that it was.
Love and prayers,
Sr. Ann Elizabeth Diliberti
Capuchin Service
in Yonkers, New York
The city of Yonkers is spread out over hills rising from near sea level at the
eastern bank of the Hudson River to its highest point at Sacred Heart Church.
Yonkers borders the Bronx and is only two miles north of Manhattan.
For over 100 years Sacred Heart has been an important part of the city’s growth
and cultural diversity and the Capuchins have been able to successfully
adjust to the changing demographics of the
parish and its surrounding neighborhoods.
The Capuchins continue to serve the
citizens of Yonkers and the parish has
thrived throughout the years.
During the latter part of the 1800’s, in addition
to their ministries to the poor, the Capuchins
were heavily involved in assisting and serving
the large immigrant population. Newcomers
entered America through New York City
and had to deal with the bureaucratic
complexities of registration and relocation.
The Friars spent long hours helping them
navigate through the difficult processes.
In 1891 the Capuchins established their
presence in Yonkers. They wanted a place
outside of the city limits but still close by to
the city that would provide peace and respite
for the friars who worked so diligently with the poor and the immigrants.
What started out as The Sacred Heart Friary, built on the highest hill in
Yonkers, has grown today to include Sacred Heart Church, St. Clare Friary,
the Capuchin Cemetery, a Memorial and Meditation Garden, The Capuchin
Heritage Museum, and Sacred Heart School.
Interior of Sacred
Heart Church.
When the Capuchins first settled in Yonkers, the area was mostly farmland
with small industries scattered along the waterfront. Now Yonkers is largely
a suburban community and many residents enjoy the short train ride along
the scenic Hudson River to their places of employment in New York City.
Sacred Heart Parish continues to be a beloved and integral part of Yonkers.
More notable and more important, however, Sacred Heart has been an
effective and influential force dedicated to
supporting the challenging and dynamic
neighborhoods it serves. The parish hosts
several clubs/organizations that bring the
youth and older parishioners together with
common objectives of serving each other
and their neighbors. The Respect Life
Committee is dedicated to the protection Window in the Sacred
of all life at all stages of development and Heart Sacristy.
16
The Golden Chalice
making parishioners aware of pro-life issues.
The Thrift Shop provides a wide variety of
deeply discounted, gently used clothing for
those in need. The “Meals for the Homeless”
ministry at Sacred Heart has parishioners
preparing healthy meals for needy neighbors.
Children of the parish are served by clubs
for boys and girls and those suffering with
addictions are served by parish recovery
and counseling programs.
Over the past two decades, enrollment in
the Sacred Heart Grammar School and
High School has declined due to changes
in the religious and family makeup of the
parish as well as difficult economic times.
Sacred Heart Church,
Eventually, it became cost-inefficient to
built 1913-1916.
maintain the two sizeable buildings that
separately housed the grade school and
the high school so the two schools were consolidated into one building and
the other building is leased to provide classroom space for local public
school students. The merging of the Sacred Heart schools has proven to be
both economical and practical. The leased building provides financial
resources needed to support various parish initiatives, while the Sacred
Heart students are still offered as many extracurricular activities and diverse
academic opportunities as they were before. The school continues to be a
shining star and provides scholarships for poor students who seek to
succeed by conforming to the strict structure and stringent academic
requirements Sacred Heart School demands.
One of the most beautiful pieces in
the Capuchin Museum is a hand-made
gold chalice. It was given to Father Paul
Reichertz in 1907 in celebration of his
25th anniversary of becoming a
Capuchin Friar while he was serving in
Our Lady of Angels in Harlem. The
chalice has been on display in Yonkers
since 2007 when the beloved Capuchin
church closed.
Our Lady of Angels Parish had been
founded in the 1880’s by the Order of
the Friars Minor Capuchin to serve a
growing German immigrant population.
However, over the next hundred years,
neighborhoods surrounding the parish
experienced significant demographic
changes, and in 2006 the Archdiocese
of New York announced a widespread
reorganization that included closing
the parish. If the chalice had been
The halls of the Sacred Heart Friary and the St. Clare Friary are separated by
a single door. The L-shaped layout of the joined buildings gives the friars easy
access to each other while maintaining a tranquil and quiet setting in St. Clare’s
for the elderly men who often rest during the day.
Fr. Maurice L Moreau, OFM Cap. recently became pastor of Sacred Heart Parish.
The parishioners of Sacred Heart eagerly welcomed their new pastor
and he continues to appreciate how important the Capuchins are to the
city of Yonkers. Fr. Maurice joins Br. Roger Dequire, OFM Cap. who also resides
at the Sacred Heart Friary and oversees many parish projects and activities
including maintenance of the church. Br. Roger also serves as curator of the
Capuchin Museum. Br. Michael Loerch, OFM Cap. also lives at Sacred Heart
Friary and ministers at a state run institution for troubled adolescents.
Fr. Charles Sammons, OFM Cap. is the ‘parish priest’ and he also maintains
a fascinating blog (See: http://friarminor.blogspot.com) that provides interesting
insights into the life of a Capuchin friar as well as subtle suggestions and
given to the parish, it would have
belonged to the parish. But, since the
chalice was given to Fr. Paul personally,
the Capuchins were able to keep it and
make it an exquisite part of the historical
Capuchin collection.
17
Capuchin Service in Yonkers, New York
examples of how the reader can recognize the work of
St. Francis in everyday happenings.
The rich and fascinating history of the Capuchins in
America and of the Province of St. Mary is told through
the extensive collection of items and artifacts displayed
and stored in the Capuchin Museum. The museum is
located beside the Sacred Heart Church and Friary.
Br. Roger spends many hours a week recording and
archiving the hundreds of documents and items. He
reviews many, many photographs, carvings, plaques,
and books, etc. He has meticulously designed displays
of the traditional
Capuchin habit, cape,
sandals and rosaries
that have identified
the Capuchins for
decades, and he has
put
together
an
ensemble of Capuchin
vestments. Both the
Habit and the vestments are exhibited
beautifully in life-size
glass enclosures. The
museum has hand
carved plaques that
Capuchin friar habit, mantle
illustrate the mysteries
and sandals.
of the rosary, stories
in the Scripture, ministries of St. Francis and so much
more. An inspiring chronicle of the life of Fr. Solanus
Casey, OFM Cap., along with an arrangement of a few
of his personal possessions, is presented alongside
photos and updates describing the status of his pending
beatification. These are just a few of the fascinating and
informative items that are part of the Capuchin history
in America. Private tours and reviews of the museum
can easily be arranged through the Parish office.
The Capuchin Cemetery and Memorial Garden are located
a few feet from the side entrance to the Capuchin Museum.
Most of the deceased friars from the Province of St. Mary
are buried there. The funeral Mass in Sacred Heart
Church and the subsequent ceremony in the cemetery
just a short walk away, is often a very moving, tranquil
and overwhelmingly spiritual way for the family and
brothers of deceased friars to say good bye.
The Memorial Garden is just to the side of the entrance
to the cemetery. It is sometimes called the Meditation or
Prayer Garden. The carefully designed structure of the
Garden creates an ideal place for quiet personal prayer
18
and meditation. Sometimes deceased friars from the
Province of St. Mary are buried in the missions where they
have served or in family plots. Memorial plaques adorn
the stone walls of the Memorial Garden to remember these
friars who are not buried in the Capuchin cemetery.
Though Sacred Heart is located at the highest point in
Westchester County, the grounds have been burdened
with serious drainage and erosion problems. Water flows
into the lowest parts of the property, often flooding the
Meditation Garden and Cemetery. Water tends to back
up into the kitchen and nursing station in the St. Clare
Friary. The mold and mildew create health hazards for
the elderly friars who often have breathing problems.
In addition to the drainage problems, new windows
were incorrectly installed in the buildings so that rain
water flows inside rather than out.
Sacred Heart is currently involved in a major construction
to alleviate the water problems. Leaders are being hooked
up all over the property to have water drain towards
city sewers and storm drains are being installed in the
Cemetery and Medication Garden. The cost of the project
has been funded by The Province of St. Mary and The
Mission Development Office is concerned about its
ultimate cost. Soon a mailing will be going out so that
those who have been a part of Sacred Heart over the
years and have moved on, will know the extent of the
problems and the efforts underway to alleviate them.
St. Clare Friary is a peaceful and comfortable place for
friars who have served so many communities for so
many years to enjoy each other’s company while
they recall old times
and pray and laugh
together. Br. Roger
delights in showing
off the treasures
of the Capuchin
Museum and the
school and parish
still
provide
the
adults and children of
the neighborhood with
a place where they
are always welcome
and appreciated and St. Ignatius of Laconi, Capuchin
where the spirit of Saint 1701-1781, Feast Day May 11.
St. Francis is visible.
Br. Roger’s interview and description of ongoing
construction may be viewed at our website:
http://capuchin.org/giving.
Puzzled About Estate Planning?
Margaret A. Cuccinello
With my apologies to all you die-hard crossword puzzle fans (and Yankee fans
for 8 Across!), here’s a little crossword puzzle to help you think about estate
planning and charitable giving. Check your work against the answers on page 21.
Pat yourself on the back if you answered all the questions correctly. If you missed
a few, maybe it’s time to brush up on your gift and estate-planning knowledge.
However you did, please take a moment to request our free booklet on planning
your estate. Use the handy coupon below, or call us at (212) 564-0759 ext. 253.
You can also obtain a copy from our Web site at www.capuchin.org.
ACROSS
2. Estate ____
5. Will drafter
7. First word to Pop
8. Boston Red ____
9. Gift giver
10. Egyptian sun god
12. Die without will
15. Camping shelter
17. Last word on screen
18. Possessions
21. Up light switch
23. Ocean
24. What debtors do
25. Sum total of assets
1
2
5
3
6
8
4
7
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
DOWN
1. Uncle Sam’s due
2. Process to settle estate
3. “Much ____ About Nothing”
4. Narcotics agent
5. Money you pay for
6. Talking horse
8. Backward tax collection agency
11. Gift from will
13. Half a score
14. To perpetually support
16. Buddy
19. Alternative to coffee
20. Abbreviated seventh day
22. Not old
16
17
18
19
20
23
21
22
24
25
Answers to Crossword Puzzle on page 21
BEQUEST RESPONSE FORM
(Please complete and return this reply form.)
Please send me your free Will Information Kit.
Please contact me about a personal visit. The best time to call me is:____________________________________________________
I have provided for The Province of St. Mary of the Capuchin Order in my will
Please send me information about the Capuchin Legacy Society.
Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City:________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
State:
____________________
Zip:
_______________________________
Phone: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
Mail this form to: Capuchin Mission & Development Office, 210 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10011
Attn: Planned Giving Department
19
2009 Jubilarians continued from page 13
BR. PIUS BLANDINO, OFM CAP.
Golden Religious Jubilee
George Joseph Blandino was born in 1938 and grew up
in Poughkeepsie, NY. He attended Our Lady of Mount
Carmel Parochial School and Arlington High School,
graduating in 1956. For the next two years, George,
encouraged by a faith-filled life and dedication to the
Church, accepted a position at Holy Trinity Church in
Poughkeepsie as sacristan and sexton.
After contacting Capuchin Eymard McKinnon at St. John
the Baptist in New York City, George began the entrance
process in 1959. Three months later, George entered
the brother’s postulancy in Middletown, CT, was invested
as a brother-novice later that year and received the name
“Pius.” He professed first vows in 1960 at St. Pius X in
Middletown, and began his professorium at St. Anthony
Friary in Hudson, NH. Brother Pius served as the house
tailor until 1962. He was then transferred to St. Pius X to
continue his formation program and later professed solemn
vows in 1963 at Mary Immaculate Friary in Garrison, NY.
For the next 13 years at St. Pius X, he faithfully served the
friar community as housekeeper, fill-in cook, launderer,
and house tailor. In his early years in Middletown, Pius was
active in the parochial
community as well. He
served as sacristan,
organizer of the altar
boys, and coordinated
the efforts of maintenance
personnel and church
decorators. He is best
remembered in offering
his musical expertise as
organist, leader of song
and director of both the
brother’s and the parish Fr. Pius Blandolino
children’s choirs. In his
later years, Br. Pius would also serve the parish as
Eucharistic minister, lector, visitor of the sick and
teacher in the religious education programs. He also
served the province-at-large as the Provincial Tailor.
Br. Pius then served in the community of St. Conrad
Friary in White Plains, NY, as an overseer and cook. He was
also appointed overseer of the newly acquired Gilgo
Beach cottage property. Following the Chapter of 1990,
Advent in Rome
Join Fr. Francis Gasparik, OFM Cap. as he leads a
Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual
Help in Rome Italy (Home of the Original Miraculous Image)
A week of Prayer in preparation for Christmas
and the Celebration of the Feast of the
Immaculate Conception with the Holy Father,
Pope Benedict XVI at the Piazza di Spagna
December 5th through 12th, 2009
Cost p/p Double occupancy $2,099.00*
(*does not include air taxes and fees)
Call Capuchin Journeys – 212 564-0759 ext. 268
for brochure, details & reservations.
Pius was transferred to Our Lady Queen of Angels in East
Harlem where he served for the next 15 years, ministering
as a parochial assistant and an elementary school
teacher during part of that time. It was during this
period that Br. Pius earned his BA degree in Liberal Arts
from the College of New Rochelle, NY and successfully
perfected his study of the Spanish language. He continued
to teach and was later appointed guardian of Our Lady
Queen of Angels friar community.
Br. Pius offered fraternal service to the senior friar
residential community of Saint Clare in Yonkers for
one year before he was once again transferred to
St. Conrad Friary in White Plains, NY, where he served
as guardian until 2008. Br. Pius continues to offer
fraternity service to the friar community of St. Conrad
as fraternity vicar, as well as being an active religious
educator in two local parishes, part-time tutor, and
organist in local parochial communities.
FR. DANIEL CRISTÓBAL, OFM CAP.
Próspero
Policárpo
Untalán Cristóbal was
born in 1931 in Agaña,
Guam. Prior to World
War II, Próspero attended
Guam
[Elementary]
Institute, Agaña Post Office
School and Government
School. Following the war
he attended Sinajaña
Elementary School in
Sinajaña, Guam; George
Washington Elementary
Fr. Daniel Cristóbal
and High Schools in
Agaña; Saint Joseph High School College in Mount View,
CA; and lastly, in 1948, Próspero was among the first
student body of Fr. Dueñas Memorial High School [and
then College] in Ta’i, Mangilao, graduating in 1952.
The following September, Próspero entered the novitiate
of the newly-established Province of St. Mary in Milton,
MA, and was invested in 1952, receiving the religious
name “Daniel,” and professed his vows a year later.
He began his philosophical studies at Mary Immaculate
Friary in Garrison, NY, graduating in 1955. Daniel continued
his theological studies in Garrison and completed his
theological requirements in 1960. Father Daniel was
ordained by Most Rev. Apollinaris Baumgartner, OFM Cap,
Vicar Apostolic of the Marianas Islands, in 1959 at the
Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral in Agaña.
Returning to the Marianas in 1960, Daniel proved to be a
talented minister and served in a variety of apostolates
and parochial settings. He first ministered at his alma
mater, Fr. Dueñas High School as an instructor until 1961
and again from 1964-66. After a short period of assistance
in Saipan, he served as an assistant pastor in St. Francis
in Yona, and Santa Barbara in Dededo. He ministered as
pastor at San Miguel in Talofofo, Santa Barbara, and
St. Francis in Yona.
Golden Priesthood Jubilee
Throughout his priestly life, as early as 1961, Daniel
has been a dedicated spiritual advisor to the Secular
Franciscan community and was instrumental in establishing several fraternities on Guam. While residing with the
friar community of St. Fidelis in Agaña, Daniel served
as the Director of Secular Franciscans and Cursillo
Movement for the island. He was also active in the
on-going development of the Christian Mothers Society.
In 1975, Daniel was appointed by Bishop Flores to
coordinate all Holy Year Diocesan Events including a
pilgrimage to the Holy Land. In later years, because of
his successful organizational abilities, he would again
receive several diocesan appointments to chair diocesan
committees. While serving as pastor of Santa Rita in
Agat, Daniel was appointed to chair the monumental
task of organizing all the church preparations for the
historic visit of John Paul II to Guam in 1981.
Answer to the Puzzle on page 19:
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2009 Jubilarians
In 1985 he was appointed pastor of St. Jude Thaddeus
and served in Sinajaña until 1994. During this time,
Daniel was once again called upon to lead the Guam
pilgrimage to Rome to attend the beatification of Blessed
Diego Luis de San Vitores, a Spanish Jesuit missionary
who founded the first Catholic church on the island of
FR. PATRICK GLAVIN, OFM CAP.
James Richard Glavin was born in Quincy, MA in 1933. He
attended Saint Mark’s parochial school in Dorchester
and Boston Latin College Prep before matriculating at
Boston College Arts & Sciences College. In April of 1952,
shortly after the split of the Province of St. Joseph,
James began a correspondence with the newlyappointed provincial minister, Fr. Adrian Holzmeister,
expressing his interest in becoming a Capuchin
Franciscan. His blood-brother Francis [frater Leonard]
was a member of the English-Capuchins who at the
time resided at St. Lawrence Friary in Milton, MA. [Fr.]
Leonard Glavin would later become a member of the
new Province of St. Mary and ordained in 1954.
Jim, a member of the first novitiate class of the Province
of St. Mary, was invested at St. Lawrence Friary in
Milton in 1952, receiving the name “Patrick.” When
asked why he wanted to because a Capuchin, Patrick
responded: “I wish to work with the people. The Capuchin
community specialized in work among people and
making themselves useful to the Church in many ways.
I think that this is the type of work I would like to do.”
He professed his first vows at St. Lawrence the following
year, and began his philosophical studies at Mary
Immaculate Friary in Garrison, followed by theological
studies. He pronounced solemn vows in 1956 at Mary
Immaculate Friary.
In 1959, Father Patrick Glavin was ordained to the priesthood in Sacred Heart Church, Yonkers, by Bishop Griffiths.
Following ordination, Patrick began his post-graduate
studies at Catholic University of America in Washington, DC,
receiving his STL in 1962, majoring in theology. He
continued his graduate work at the Pontifical Biblical
Institute, studying both in Rome and Jerusalem. Patrick
received his SSL in Sacred Scripture in 1964 and would
then begin his 14-year tenure as Lecture and formator
at Mary Immaculate Friary until 1978, celebrating his
21st year on the Garrison property. During those many
years at Mary Immaculate, Patrick also served in several
areas or formation development including: field education,
lay-friar postulancy program, spiritual direction, liturgical
master of ceremonies.
22
Guam. Venerable Diego was responsible for establishing
the Spanish presence in the Mariana Islands.
Daniel served as pastor of Our Lady of Peace and Safe
Voyage in Chalan Pago until 2001 when, at the age of
70, he was appointed pastor of San Miguel parish in
Talofofo, where he continues to serve.
Golden Priesthood Jubilee
For the next 31 years,
Patrick would actively
serve in a variety of
ministries and parochial
settings. After one year
assisting at St. Francis
Chapel in Springfield in
urban transient ministry,
Patrick was appointed a
member of the first
Capuchin parish staff of
Blessed Sacrament in
Manchester, NH. After Fr. Patrick Glavin
eight years as an assistant, Patrick was appointed the second Capuchin pastor
and guardian of Blessed Sacrament Church and friar
community and served in those positions for the next
seven years.
During his years in Manchester, in additional to his
attraction to outdoor maintenance, he developed his skills
as a baker and local Braumeister. After a short assignment
at St. Pius X in Middletown, Patrick served at St Joseph
in Portland, ME, first as associate pastor, then as a
hospital chaplain at the Maine Medical Center. For the
next two years Patrick was assigned to Saint AnneSaint Augustin in Manchester as a parochial vicar and
special ministry for the Diocese of Manchester. In
2006, he became a member of the first Capuchin
parish staff of Saint Peter in Rutland, VT, where he also
served as the fraternal vicar.
In 2008, Patrick returned to Manchester and continues
to minister as a parochial assistant at Saint Anne-Saint
Augustin.
“My gratitude to God for this time as a Capuchin priest
grows each day,” says Patrick. “Of the many gifts given
me by God and the friars, the study of the Scriptures
stands out as one of the greatest. How much of a gift
this has been to those who have had to sit in my classes,
I cannot say. I’m sure that the Holy Spirit who led the
Apostles to a fuller truth of Jesus’ words will continue
that work for all those I had the privilege of teaching.”
Farming & Ministering in Tanzania:
A Report on Current Projects
A few years ago the Capuchin Province of Tanzania
secured a plot of land at Mivumoni village in the Pangani
District in Tanzania, East Africa. The decision to establish
a house there was in line with the Congregation’s policy
to encourage self-reliance and self-sustenance of the
Province, while also ministering to the poor. The
Capuchins would not only minister to the spiritual needs
of the few faithful who live there (a large percentage of
the population bear the Muslim faith) but also cater to
the social and economic well-being of all. In doing so,
we would bear witness through both our presence and
our activities.
The farm area covers 111 hectacres in total, and in
our efforts toward self-reliance, we have cleared
a large part of the land. Livestock-keeping and
small-scale farming has already begun with success,
and we are about to begin the second phase of the
project: cultivating a greater part of the land, which
requires the purchase of a tractor and its accessories,
as well as drilling a borehole well to procure safe and
reliable water supply for the farm, the village and thus
the Province.
Today more than ever, the emphasis on agriculture
cannot be overstated. We need to utilize the resources
at our disposal, so the challenge is to make more
productive use of land, especially with the increase in
population in a developing country like Tanzania. Since
the rainy season is never accurate, timely preparation
of fields is essential. Late preparation can mean no or
poor harvest! Every day matters when it comes to farming
in a developing country, and a tractor will enable timely
and better cultivation of the soil, not to mention the
digging of water-catchment areas for temporary water
sources for both domestic and animal use, as well as
haulage and storage of the potential harvest. Without
strong and reliable transport haulage, good harvests
can easily go to waste in the field itself or in transit
from the field to the storage barns.
Another obstacle we are overcoming is that it is difficult
if not impossible to make a farm thrive or grow without
a reliable water supply, a problem that also affects the
entire village. The objective is to farm on larger scale to
subsidize seminary costs and charitable works by at least
25% by 2011 and provide the village with a safe and
reliable water supply. The drilling of a borehole will
ensure safe and reliable water availability for the farm
and the village throughout the year, which will enable
successful cultivation of food and cash crops, plus animal
husbandry on the farm. Neighboring villagers will also
benefit in terms of employment (during preparation of
fields, planting, weeding and harvesting), as well as
improving basic skills in agriculture. Farm produce will
be sold to the market at fair prices. A safe and reliable
water supply will reduce health risks in the village as
well as help ensure regular class attendance at school.
Our efforts to achieve self-reliance and self-sustenance
objectives will also impact the lives of others. For
instance, the tractor will not only be used on the
Capuchin farm, but would also be hired out at affordable
rates to the villagers. Such a system will not only provide
funds for the ongoing maintenance of the tractor, it will
help alleviate the poverty of the area's simple hand
hoe/ox plough farmers. And if we can help increase
the income of the simple area farmers, the chances of
escaping the vicious cycle of poverty becomes a very
real possibility! Increased income means the ability to
educate children better, it means a better diet, it
means better housing, not to mention the possibility of
expanding through re-investment.
And through our presence, as well as our actions, we
provide for the nourishment of hunger, both physical
and spiritual.
23
The most important thing about life is “To develop good
relationships and respect everyone. Respect those who
don’t think like you.” This is Fr. Darius’ uncomplicated
retrospect on life.
FRIAR IN FOCUS:
Father
Darius DeVito
OFM Cap.
Fr. Darius was born Joseph Dominic DeVito in 1931, the eldest
son of Italian immigrants. His mother gave birth to five other
children, but only he and two younger sisters lived to
become adults. He remembers his older sister when she
died at age 10 from epilepsy. He was 8. His mother brought
the children to church on Sundays and did her best to give
them a love for Catholicism. His father was more passive
about religion and didn’t accompany his family to church.
He worked as a barber, a carpenter and an overall handyman.
As Fr. Darius looks back, he realizes how much his unassuming
parents contributed to the two things he’s loved most in life.
His mother for helping set the foundation for his religious
vocation, and his father for teaching him to work with his hands.
It never occurred to Joseph Dominic to be anything but a
priest. It was just natural from as far back as he can
remember. As a little boy, he invited the neighborhood kids
to Mass. He’d set up an altar and he’d play the priest. Even
the Jewish kids came and he
served them all NECCO wafers
for communion. Since he lived
just a block away from the
2
1
4
3
1: Procession Dedication of
Fultonville: Friars Darius, Paul
Steffen, Louis Chiusano, Bennet
Divine
2: Intramural Basketball Team:
Freshman Class
3: Grade School Graduation:
Joseph, Ellen, Angelina, Antoinette
4: Seniors Guest at St. John's Auxiliary Party 1949
24
tended to be gentle while the east was tough. When they
played sports games together and one of the friars missed
a play, a friar from the west may have remarked
encouragingly, ‘nice try,’ while a friar from the east would
have shouted, ‘that was a stupid move.’ Eventually,
however, brotherhood prevailed and he fondly remembers
those days.
Fr. Darius has always been involved in some sort of
teaching. His first assignment was to teach high school
Back Hill of seminary in Winter Tobogan run
church, later on, when he got older, he was often called
upon to fill in for altar boys or do odd tasks around the
church. He served as an altar boy for Fr. Walter O’Brien
when the young priest was living at St. Michael’s in
Brooklyn, and he admired his reverence for the Mass.
“Blame Fr. Walter,” he says smiling, when he thinks
about the Capuchin Friar’s influence on him. Though
he remembers very little of his early childhood, he
vividly remembers his first Capuchin friend who took
the boys to Coney Island and ball games and rodeos.
“Blame Fr. Walter” for the glimpse of the Capuchin
spirit that inspired young Joseph Dominic to follow.
All of Fr. Darius’ education has been Capuchin education
and it began when he entered The Order as a high school
freshman at age 13. He was a good student who excelled
in math and his teachers often asked him to help his
struggling classmates with algebra and geometry. He
enjoyed helping the other seminarians and he realized
how much he liked teaching math.
In 1949 Joseph Dominic was invested at St. Felix Friary
and received his religious name, Darius. He was ordained
in 1957 at Sacred Heart in Yonkers and completed his
college studies in philosophy and theology in 1958. Some
Teaching Sophomores
math at the minor seminary. When needed, he also taught
religion to the high school students. He taught the
Sacraments to sophomores and social behavior to seniors. He says he tried to teach from a Franciscan point
of view. He tried to make St. Francis come alive for the
young men. He knew many of them would not eventually
enter The Order but he hoped he could influence the
students so that the message of St. Francis would be with
them throughout their lives and that they would show
compassion and respect to all those they met.
But there was another side to Fr. Darius that he would
never let go. He has always loved to use his hands and
to fiddle with and fix things. He jumps in when there is
manual labor to be done and he is proud to be known
throughout the Province as Mr. Fix-it. Whenever he was
given a new assignment, he has tried to make himself
useful. And, he was the ‘Cobbler’ for the province.
He made the sandals for the Friars.
Field Day “Three Strikes You’re Out”
of this time was before the provinces split and the
Capuchin Friars from the East and the West studied
together. Fr. Darius recalls this time as a cherished lesson
in brotherhood taught by example. He remembers the
cultural divide between the east and the west. The west
Friary Quartet: Friars Dominic Silvestro, Peter Von Essen,
Darius DeVito, Joseph Testagrossa
25
Friar in Focus: Fr. Darius DeVito
His mother taught Fr. Darius how to sew and the skill led
to him jump in when The Province needed someone to
custom-make the leather sandals that have been part of
the Capuchin habit since St. Francis wore them long ago.
The sandals are made of specialty leather and Fr. Darius
sketched the form of each of the Capuchin’s feet so that
the sandals were a perfect fit. For years he apprenticed and
studied under the Capuchin cobbler before him until he’d
mastered the craft and then the job became his. He made
himself so indispensable that the cobbler machine has
followed him, over the years, to each of his assignments
and now it is just a short walk through the Friary corridors
to the Cobbler Room below the Capuchin Museum in
Yonkers. It is much less expensive for the friars to purchase
their sandals today than to have them custom made,
however, so his days as The Cobbler are over.
Fr. Darius always wanted to serve where he was needed
and he always enjoyed his assignments. He notes that he
was a little apprehensive when he was sent to minister at
Some classmates: Fr. Darius Devito, Fr. Joseph Testagrossa,
Fr. Paul Steffan, Fr. Bruce Quinn, Fr. Richard Donaldson
St. Clare’s. Because as a teacher he’d been involved with
younger men, he was nervous about ministering to the
elderly friars. He anticipated clumsiness that comes
with age would be a nuisance. However, he soon saw how
well he suited his ministry – he could fix things! Quickly
the retired friars began to depend upon him when they
needed help with most anything. His ministry became
jack-of-all trades. He even shops for St. Clare’s and
sometimes cooks for the friars. He fills in when needed
to say Mass in the parish and he loves that the elderly
friars don’t hesitate to call upon him to ‘fix things.’ His
ministry at St. Clare’s has lasted for 19 years and, as
throughout his life as a Capuchin, he is happy, enjoying
his work, and understands how it fits into the vision of
St. Francis.
Since Fr. Darius began his life as a Capuchin so young, the
religious life is all he has ever known. He reflects upon the
strict adherence to rules and structure that were required
26
at all times. Most of the friars entering the Order today,
however, have been educated in secular colleges and many
have been successful in secular careers. In addition, once
they enter The Order, they attend Colleges such as Boston
College and Seton Hall while years ago the Capuchins
studied under Franciscans for advanced psychology and
theology. Fr. Darius notes that it is interesting how often
the men who are entering now welcome the more traditional Capuchin structure and bring talents and passions
borne of life experiences that are refreshing and genuine.
When Fr. Darius looks back upon his life as a Capuchin, he
remembers that he had no anticipations. Everything was
fresh and new and he loved it all and had no difficulty adjusting. He always felt like he belonged with the Capuchins
and he has always been able to do the two things he enjoys
most, teaching and fixing. When asked what he would do
different in his life, he answers, “NOTHING!” Actually,
the only thing he regrets is ‘not learning to speak proper
Italian.’ Although Italian was Fr. Darius’ first language,
his mother insisted the children speak English, “We
are in America now – learn English,” she’d tell them,
though she never learned English herself. Now he
wishes he’d studied the language seriously later on.
Very early in his life as a Capuchin, Fr. Darius was fortunate
enough to work for a short time with Fr. Solanus Casey.
He remembers how very ordinary and nice the Friar who
became known as a miracle worker was. He remembers
how he and his young friends were constantly trying to
‘catch him in a miracle’. They all thought their miracle
would be the curing of a blind classmate. But when Fr. Darius
saw Fr. Solanus tending to the Friary bee hives without a
net, he was convinced this humble man was special. That
was miracle enough for him. “Preach the gospel at all times
and, if necessary, use words” is a favorite expression of
St. Francis that has captivated Fr. Darius. He saw this quiet
goodness in Fr. Solanus.
“I am here to do God’s will and I’ve done it through
appointments and ministries.”
Fr. Darius became a Capuchin because he wanted to
do God’s will. He believes he has responded to God’s
call throughout his time as a Capuchin. He feels
fulfilled as a priest and hopes he has touched those
he’s served in the gentle ways that are demonstrative
of how St. Francis would have. He wanted to serve in
the background as support for his community. He
wanted to build and fix and fill in so that all ran
smoothly up front and so that his brothers in fraternity
could more easily fulfill their ministries. He continues
to be Mr. Fix-it at St. Clare’s.
CELEBRATING THE ETERNAL LIFE OF . . .
We offer our prayers for the repose of the souls of
the following family and friends of the Province of St. Mary.
(As of August 28, 2009)
DePaul Guerrero
Fr. John Niland, OFM Cap.
Former Friar
May 23, 2009
August 5, 2009
Fr. Sylvan Conover, OFM Cap.
Brother of Fr. Bernard Smith, OFM Cap.
August 10, 2009
May 25, 2009
Fr. Owen Shelley, OFM Cap.
Edward Oliver
June 5, 2009
Brother-in-law of Fr. Thomas Faiola, OFM Cap.
August 20, 2009
Angela Forbes-Gasparovich
Aunt of Fr. Eric Forbes, OFM Cap.
June 22, 2009
Christopher Taffe
Brother of Br. Terence Taffe, OFM Cap.
July 7, 2009
Statue in
the Memorial
Garden at
St. Clare Friary
in Yonkers.
Hugh Smith
Allen Raymond Gallagher
Brother of Fr. John Gallagher, OFM Cap.
August 26, 2009
NON-PROFIT
US POSTAGE
PAID
MAILED FROM
ZIP CODE 61764
PERMIT No. 454
210 West 31st Street
New York, NY 10001-2876
Capuchin Youth &
Family Ministries Events:
S EPTEMBER
Sept. 4-6
Refresh & Renew Retreat for High Schoolers
Sept. 6
Cap Corps Volunteer Commissioning
O CTOBER
Oct. 8-11
Girl’s Day by Day Agape Retreat 213 (DDA)
Oct. 24-25
CYFM Freshman/Sophomore Retreat
N OVEMBER
Nov. 6-7
7th & 8th Grade Overnight Retreat
Nov. 12-15
Boy’s Day by Day Agape Retreat 214 (DDA)
Contact: Tom Brinkmann,
Executive Director, CYFM
(845) 424-3609 for information
Capuchin Food Pantries Events:
November 5
Doodle for Hunger
Tavern on the Green, NYC
December 12
Holiday Parties
Affinia Hotel, NYC
Hostos College, Bronx
Contact: Joe Sano, Managing Director
Capuchin Food Pantries
(212) 279-6171
Novena Dates:
Dates
Appeals
9/29/09
August English Monthly
10/27/09
St. Jude
10/27/09
SPANISH – St. Jude
10/27/09
September English Monthly
11/1/09
All Souls
11/1/09
All Souls Renewal

CJ_0809:Layout 1 - Capuchin Franciscans, Province of St. Mary

Transcription

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