Becoming a Jesuit The Challenging and Rewarding Journey of Formation - Midwest Jesuits
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USA MIDWEST PROVINCE | FALL/WINTER 2020
Becoming a Jesuit
The Challenging and Rewarding
Journey of Formation
Also in This Issue:
n An Interview with Jesuit-Educated
Comedian Bob Newhart
n Campion High School’s Legacy Lives On
n Ignatian Spirituality Project Takes Root in
Dublin
Dear Friends,
As we near the end of 2020, I find myself reflecting on the ways that the world has changed over these
last 12 months. The onset of the pandemic, followed by economic collapse, and the social and political
upheaval of an election year—any of these would be remarkable on their own. Yet in all of this, we
have adapted to find new ways of worshipping, socializing, working, sharing, and learning together.
Yes, these adjustments were and continue to be stressful, but these are also times of grace, as we see
faith and courage overcome desolation and fear.
Perhaps that is why it’s no surprise that our schools across the Midwest rose swiftly to meet the
challenges of COVID-19 (page 14), stepping up in the same way Jesuits have done since our founding.
In Cincinnati, at Bellarmine Parish and Xavier University (page 20), the pandemic united the parish
and university to work together in unique and innovative ways, as perhaps nothing else could have. At
the same time, the Seminars in Ignatian Formation and Leadership (SIF) program (page 19) continued
to offer training in the Spiritual Exercises to those serving at our Jesuit works. This vital program
transitioned successfully to an online model, so that the ripple effect of this training continues.
But the good news is not limited to just our works.
Our cover story (page 6 and pull-out section) focuses on the lengthy process of Jesuit formation,
beginning with a vocation and continuing through his final vows. At this time, we are blessed to have
18 men at the Jesuit Novitiate of St. Alberto Hurtado in St. Paul, Minnesota. This past August, another
seven men pronounced first vows and moved on to first studies in Chicago and St. Louis. An additional
seven men were ordained as deacons this summer and fall, and they will move on to be ordained as
priests next summer.
Perhaps of greatest interest to me in this magazine is a story close to my heart, featuring Campion High
School in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. I spent two years there before the school closed, and as you’ll
read (page 16), it was “a wellspring of vocations and avocations for laypeople dedicated to the work of
the Jesuits and lives lived in the Ignatian tradition.” I am grateful to the Jesuits who served there, and
for the gifts bestowed upon me in that experience.
There’s much more to be had in this issue—Pope Francis’s latest encyclical, Jesuit-involved young
adults, and even a conversation with Jesuit-educated comedian Bob Newhart.
As I pray for you, I ask for your prayers for the Society of Jesus and for those we serve. We cannot do
our work without the support and prayers of you, our friends and benefactors.
I wish you a blessed and peaceful Christmas season; may you and those you cherish be safe, well, and
filled with the joy of Christ’s arrival.
V. Rev. Brian G. Paulson, SJ
Provincial, USA Midwest Province
Postcard featuring Marquette Hall at Campion High School
Photo: Matt Micka, Campion-Knights.org
®
USA MIDWEST PROVINCE Fall/Winter 2020
Meet the New Novices
Page 4
ON THE COVER
A Jesuit receives a vow cross as he
professes first vows (at the end of his
two years at the novitiate) and keeps it
for the rest of his life.
This August, eight men entered the Jesuit Novitiate of St. Alberto Hurtado in St. Paul, Minnesota. They join
ten second-year novices, as well as the staff, pictured here.
For additional content and more
information, connect with us online:
WWW.JESUITSMIDWEST.ORG Page 6 Page 10
A Decade of Devotion A Community of Hope
Formation in the Society of Jesus is The Ignatian Spirituality Project’s first
Search “Midwest Jesuits” on Facebook,
a decade-long process designed to European affiliate has begun offering
Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Instagram prepare scholastics and brothers to programs in Dublin.
spread the word of God and minister at
Visit our photo galleries at
midwestjesuits.smugmug.com apostolates.
Page 16 Page 24
JOIN THE JESUIT Fertile Ground Akol Arop: An Athlete and a Man of God
PRAYER COMMUNITY! The legacy of Campion High School in Creighton Prep graduate Akol Arop’s
Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, is carried strong faith life sets him apart from other
JesuitPrayer.org on by the alumni. Division I basketball players.
■ Daily Scripture, Ignatian
reflection, and Ignatian
prayer
■ Free iPhone, iPad, and
Android Apps
■ Submit a prayer request
■ Download prayer cards ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
■ Free daily email
News............................................. 2 Ministries...................................... 14 In Memoriam................................. 22
A Heart on Fire.............................. 8 Spirituality..................................... 19 Advancement................................ 25
A Jesuit’s Journey......................... 9 Jesuit Parishes.............................. 20
Leadership..................................... 12 Arts & Culture............................... 21
NEWS
Photo: CNS
Pope Francis signed “Fratelli Tutti” at the Basilica of Fr. O’Malley, between fellow Jesuits, Frs. Greg Marquette University, 2017
St. Francis in Assisi on October 3. Schenden, SJ, and Ron Anton, SJ
Pope Francis Releases New Father John O’Malley, SJ, Midwest Jesuit Universities
Social Encyclical “Fratelli Tutti” Culminates a Six-Decade Named to 2021 U.S. News &
On October 4, the feast of St. Francis of Teaching Career Via Virtual World Report Rankings
Assisi, Pope Francis released his third Classroom This September, U.S. News & World Report
encyclical, titled “Fratelli Tutti,” and subtitled This past May, after 67 years of teaching, 29 released its annual rankings of the best
“on fraternity and social friendship.” The books, eight best book awards, 150 journal colleges and universities in the United States.
encyclical was signed October 3, on Pope articles, 20 honorary doctorates, two historic Midwest Jesuit institutions were featured
Francis’s visit to the Basilica of St. Francis General Congregations, and three lifetime prominently on the list.
in Assisi, Italy. Following “Laudato Si’”— achievement awards, Midwest Jesuit Fr. Of the approximately 1,900 four-year
Pope Francis’s encyclical on care for our John O’Malley taught his final history class colleges and universities nationwide ranked
common home—“Fratelli Tutti” takes on at Georgetown University. Although he did by U.S. News, only 389 (or about 20 percent)
other issues. Pope Francis writes, “I offer this not have his students physically present, are classified as National Universities. These
social encyclical as a modest contribution to they all wished him well from their virtual universities are recognized by U.S. News for
continued reflection, in the hope that in the classroom. Father O’Malley was a professor in offering a full range of undergraduate majors,
face of present-day attempts to eliminate the theology department at Georgetown and plus master’s and doctoral programs, as well
or ignore others, we may prove capable of also served as president of the Renaissance as for producing groundbreaking research.
responding with a new vision of fraternity and Society of America and Catholic Historical Marquette was ranked #88 in national
social friendship that will not remain at the Society. universities and #18 in best undergraduate
level of words.” Father O’Malley is considered a giant teaching.
He calls on us to acknowledge the dignity among Jesuit scholars and intellectuals, and Creighton University and Loyola University
of every person and the way the COVID-19 he is also known for being a kind and humble tied for #112 among national universities.
pandemic has revealed “false securities,” Jesuit priest. Father O’Malley entered the Additionally, Creighton’s Heider College of
as well as division across the world. The former Chicago Province in 1946 when he was Business was ranked nationally with the
encyclical also includes a reflection on the 18 years old. He taught his first history class finance program at #14, and the accounting
Gospel parable of the Good Samaritan, which over six decades ago at Saint Ignatius College program ranked at #25.
Pope Francis presents in the form of the Prep in Chicago. Many young Jesuits have For regional rankings, U.S. News &
Spiritual Exercises, a prayer developed by St. cited Fr. O’Malley’s writing as one of the ways World Report considers factors including
Ignatius of Loyola. they were introduced to the Society of Jesus. graduation and retention rates, undergraduate
Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, told America, Currently, Fr. O’Malley is missioned to pray for academic reputation, social mobility, and
“I know that ‘Fratelli Tutti,’ like all other the Church and the Society, and he continues student selectivity. Among regional master’s
documents of the social teaching, will remain to research and write for publications such as universities in the Midwest, John Carroll
forever as part of the heritage of depository of America. University was ranked #2 overall, as well as
the Church, but we receive it at this particular #1 in best colleges for veterans and #3 in best
moment in history when people feel we’re undergraduate teaching. Xavier University
‘on the brink’ and can’t go back and, as Pope was ranked #5 overall, #3 in best colleges
Francis tells us: ‘Don’t even think of trying to for veterans, and #5 in best undergraduate
go back.’” teaching.
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JESUIT CONNECTIONS
Photo: Barbara Ries
Jesuits Hung Nguyen, Robert Karle, Thomas Bambrick,
and Jeffrey Dorr at their ordination to the diaconate.
Midwest Jesuits Ordained
as Transitional Deacons in
Ceremonies Across the Country Photo of Marley Christian by Akeelah Christian,
In anticipation of their ordination to the
priesthood, Jesuit scholastics are ordained to
Marley Christian freshman, CRJHS Twin Cities
the diaconate during their theology studies. Hometown: Brooklyn Center, in the COVID-19, I work from home, which is a lot
The diaconate role, in which they typically northwest corner of Minneapolis more difficult, but the people there are great,
serve for six months to a year, is the final step School: Cristo Rey Jesuit High Twin Cities and it’s working out.
(current sophomore)
in their preparation for priestly ordination.
Passion: Music and the cello How did you get interested in the cello?
Deacons proclaim the Gospel and preach
and teach in the name of the Church. As How did you select Cristo Rey Twin Cities? I saw a violinist in my neighborhood who
ministers of sacraments, they baptize, witness inspired me. Then I started with the violin. In
When representatives from Cristo Rey came
marriages, and conduct wake and funeral second grade, I picked up the cello, and it’s
to my Catholic grade school, I knew right
services. away. They said they had a 100 percent become my main passion, maybe because I
This year, Jesuits were ordained in graduation rate, and that really caught my got pretty good at it. I started with a group
Masses across the country in Omaha; attention. I double-checked with a guy in my in grade school, and now there’s only three
Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts; Orinda, neighborhood who was a senior there, and of us who still play, but we really like to
California; and Toronto. Among those he told me it was true and gave me some practice and work together. They are more
ordained as deacons were seven Midwest good advice. After I visited, I knew it was the than just my music group—we basically
Jesuits. Trevor Rainwater, SJ, was ordained place for me. I felt a sense of belonging, and grew up together! There was one year
by the Most Reverend Terrence Prendergast, the community was great. I didn’t know what where we just blossomed! We are not able
Archbishop of Ottawa-Cornwall, in the Church a Jesuit was when I first went to Cristo Rey.
to gather due to COVID-19, but we practice
of Our Lady of Lourdes in Toronto on May 23. I had never heard of St. Ignatius. It’s hard to
together online. Last year I received the
Aaron Malnick, SJ, was ordained by Cardinal believe I know so much more now compared
to when I came, especially about life. Father Roderick Cox Music Initiative scholarship for
Sean O’Malley, OFM Cap., on September musical studies at the MacPhail Center for
John Paul, SJ, has really influenced me. We
19 at the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola in Music, and that’s made me want to try even
had a great conversation that sticks with me.
Chestnut Hill. Four Midwest Jesuits were I remember him asking me what it means to harder. MacPhail is a lot like Cristo Rey—a
ordained by the Most Reverend Michael C. be a follower, and whether that would be a community, and more than just a school.
Barber, SJ, Bishop of Oakland, in Orinda on good thing? Wow. It really got me thinking. Today I’m playing with the Minnesota
October 24: Thomas Bambrick, SJ; Jeffrey Now my younger sister Akeelah attends Northside Youth Orchestra (MNYO), with the
Dorr, SJ; Robert Karle, SJ; and Hung Nguyen, Cristo Rey. I like seeing her have the same
Cristo Rey orchestra, which is getting better,
SJ. Lastly, Jeffrey Sullivan, SJ, was ordained great experience.
and with the Northside Choir. I also play the
on November 5, by the Most Reverend
Where have your work-study assignments viola (as does my sister), violin, drums, and
George J. Lucas, Archbishop of Omaha, at St.
been? percussion.
John’s Parish at Creighton University. Garrett
Gundlach, SJ, will be ordained a deacon in I started as a freshman at the Peter Claver
Paris in April 2021. Center as a teacher’s assistant; now as a Note: African Americans only make up 1.8 percent of
sophomore, I work for Accenture. Due to orchestras nationwide (League of American Orchestras).
J e s u i ts | A p u b l i c a ti o n o f th e Mi d w e s t J e s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2020 | Page 3
NOVICES
Introducing the
2020 Novices
From left to right, front row: William Garbe, David
Abernathy, Patrick Fenner, Brian Martindale; back
row: Michael Rushka, Kyle Vieth, Austin Kleman,
Brennan Dour.
David Abernathy, Jerusalem. Dour retreats at Creighton and found joy in the
46, was raised in began discerning deepening of his own spirituality and that
Belleville, Illinois, a vocation to the of others.
near St. Louis, Society of Jesus William Garbe, 28, first discerned Jesuit
Missouri, where in college after life while living in Cincinnati, following a
he graduated from meeting a few retreat at Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Guelph,
Althoff Catholic Jesuit priests Ontario. He spent
High School. He during his studies several months
went on to receive and reading praying with Jesuit
a bachelor’s degree several works by Fr. James Martin’s
in law enforcement Jesuit authors. books and The
and justice administration from Western Patrick Fenner, Examen podcast.
Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois. 22, graduated from A few months
He served for 20 years as a police officer Skutt Catholic later, Garbe left
with the city of Belleville and retired High School in his career as an
in August of 2020. During a period of Omaha, Nebraska. investigative
discernment, Abernathy got to know Fenner continued reporter at the
the Jesuits while attending a “come and his education Dayton Daily News and moved to the
see” weekend in Chicago, and he felt an at Creighton Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota
instant connection. University to live and work as a donné with Red
Brennan Dour, 23, grew up in graduating with Cloud Indian School’s Jesuit community.
Bremerton, Washington, and graduated a degree in Garbe is a native Michigander, born in
from the University of Notre Dame with secondary education and theology. While Ann Arbor, and he grew up in Toledo,
majors in liberal studies and German. at Creighton, he became more acquainted Ohio, where he attended St. Francis de
During his time at Notre Dame he also with the Jesuits and began to discern a Sales School. He graduated from the
studied in Munich, Heidelberg, and call to the Society of Jesus. Fenner led University of Dayton in 2014.
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NOVICES
Austin Kleman, 23, graduated in 2019 University, he first felt called to the Jesuits. After
with a psychology where he studied high school, he attended Georgetown
and philosophy biochemistry, University and graduated in 2020 with a
degree with philosophy, and degree in physics and mathematics. While
honors from Saint peace studies. at Georgetown, he was active in the
Mary’s University At Marquette, Knights of Columbus and Georgetown
of Minnesota. Martindale was Right to Life. He also participated in the
During his also heavily university’s Gregorian chant schola.
studies, Kleman involved in Kyle Vieth,
participated in campus ministry 27, grew up in
a missionary and the Center Cincinnati and
program in for Peacemaking. Martindale just graduated from
Uganda and an internship program completed a year of service with Jesuit the University of
with the Lasallian brothers in Brisbane, Volunteer Corps, working as the outreach Cincinnati with a
Australia. This past year, Kleman worked coordinator at St. Vincent de Paul Church bachelor’s degree
as the general manager of a Dunkin’ in Baltimore. in chemistry and
restaurant in his hometown, Wausau, Michael Rushka, a master’s degree
Wisconsin. Kleman first discovered the 23, was raised in physiology.
Jesuits in his final year at Saint Mary’s in Indianapolis. After earning his
and spent this past year learning about the When Rushka master’s, he spent two years working in
order and discerning the call to join. was a senior at a research lab at the university studying
Brian Martindale, 23, was raised in Cathedral High iron metabolism. He then entered the
Carmel, Indiana, a suburb of Indianapolis. School, in the seminary in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati
He attended Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory fall of 2015, his where he remained for a year and a half.
School in Indianapolis, where he first theology teacher As Vieth desired to reach those on the
encountered the Jesuits and began took him to see periphery, he first began discerning a
discerning his vocation. He continued his Pope Francis Jesuit vocation at the advice of a trusted
education and discernment at Marquette in Philadelphia, and that was where mentor and priest. @
SECOND YEAR NOVICES AT THE JESUIT NOVITIATE OF ST. ALBERTO HURTADO:
Noah Banasiewicz, nSJ Brian Burtka, nSJ Nathaniel Cortas, nSJ Thomas Doran, nSJ David Herr, nSJ
Benjamin Jansen, nSJ Evan Krummel, nSJ Min Keun Park, nSJ Ryan Serfas, nSJ John Wahlbrink, nSJ
J e s u i ts | A p u b l i c a ti o n o f th e Mi d w e s t J e s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2020 | Page 5
F O R M AT I O N
A Decade of Devotion:
The challenging and rewarding process Seven Midwest Jesuits pronounced first vows on
of becoming a Jesuit brother or priest August 7 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in St. Paul,
Minnesota.
By Grace Rice
A vocation to the Society of Jesus is
unique. Saint Ignatius of Loyola set
out to create a religious order that was
education, frontier mission work, and
social justice. On August 7 at St. Thomas
More Catholic Church in St. Paul,
to help them on their journey home to
God.” At first vows, Jesuit brothers take
on their title as a vowed brother in the
different than the monastic and mendicant Minnesota, seven Midwest Jesuits— Society, while those who will go on to be
orders of his time. Additionally, St. Emmanuel Arenas, Philip Cooley, Patrick priests become “scholastics.” All of the
Ignatius formalized the training, as he Fisher, Alexander Hale, Kevin Karam, men proceed to first studies, typically a
described the process of Jesuit formation Justin Prom, and John Stein—pronounced three-year period of graduate coursework
in the Constitutions. As the Jesuits began in philosophy and theology at a Jesuit
to educate others and set out to spread DURING FIRST STUDIES, JESUITS university, where many will obtain
the word of God across the globe, it was BEGIN TO GROW INTO THE KIND master’s degrees.
imperative that they were equipped to do OF LIFE THEY WILL HAVE FOR Father Mark Scalese, SJ, superior
so, just as St. Ignatius himself had gone THE REST OF THEIR TIME IN THE of the first studies program at Loyola
back to school in order to be of greater SOCIETY. University Chicago, describes the men
service. At the University of Paris, St. coming out of the novitiate into first
Ignatius became acquainted with the men their own first vows of poverty, chastity, studies as “on fire.” He says, “They had a
who would become the first companions, and obedience. The vows came after very good experience of those two years
and in 1534, at a small chapel in two years as novices, where the men in the novitiate, where they really come
Montmartre, the men pronounced vows further discerned their vocation and were to know themselves and to love Jesus,
of poverty and chastity and promised to introduced to Jesuit life. At first vows, the Church, and the Society of Jesus.” In
make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Jesuits affirm their desire to continue addition to their coursework, during first
Flash forward almost 500 years. The the lengthy process of formation. At this studies Jesuits begin to grow into the kind
Society that group of men founded has year’s Mass, Provincial Fr. Brian Paulson, of life they will have for the rest of their
become the world’s largest religious SJ, said in his homily, “By pronouncing time in the Society, learning to live in a
order, with over 16,000 priests and these vows you’re going to make yourself community, without a prescribed day-to-
brothers, known for its focus on publicly available for the people of God, day routine. “They begin to learn how to
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F O R M AT I O N
take responsibility for their own prayer life
when we don’t have a schedule that says
this is when you pray,” Fr. Scalese says.
Although brothers and scholastics will
Novitiate
ultimately take on different ministries, as First Studies
Prayer
brothers will not be ordained, the trajectory Community Philosophy
of their formation looks very similar these Eucharist Fields of interest
days. However, it wasn’t always that way; Pilgrimage Prayer
Spiritual Exercises Community
at one point, many brothers had roles as
First vows Eucharist
groundskeepers while priests went on to
pursue advanced degrees. Theology
(Brothers)
Brother Jerry Peltz, SJ, who now serves Theology coursework Regency
as minister at the Creighton University Brothers enter ministry Work in a Jesuit
Jesuit community, entered the Society after before scholastics apostolate, often one
volunteering at Red Cloud Indian School (Scholastics) of our 50+ Jesuit high
on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation M.Div. schools
Scholastics are ordained
in South Dakota. He interacted with the after third year
Jesuits working on the reservation, and,
seeing what they did, found his own
vocation: “One thing led to another. It
seemed to be a good fit. It led me faith-
wise to commit to a lifelong experience Tertianship
serving the Church and the Lord.” When Renewal
Prayer
Final
Br. Peltz entered in 1978, he was the first
brother to enter in a while. “There was no
Ministry
Live, pray, and serve with
Community
Spiritual Exercises
Vows
formal program,” he says. He joined the other Jesuits in hundreds
novitiate with the scholastics and carved of apostolates
his own way, going on to teach high
school math at Creighton Prep and Red
Cloud before getting a graduate degree in
secondary school administration. As for largely mirrored that of the scholastic, vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
the different places and roles his career as although the areas of study are slightly Father James Martin, SJ, explains, “In the
a Jesuit has led him to, Br. Peltz says, “It’s different. first vows you are promising to enter the
been exciting.” Ten years is typically what people Society; in the final vows the Society is
Brother Ken Homan, SJ, joined the think of for Jesuit formation. First studies now ratifying that offering.” At this point,
Society 10 years ago, and he now serves is followed by regency, where Jesuits a Jesuit is “fully formed.”
as chair of the Jesuit Brothers Committee spend two to three years working full There are certain easier, faster ways to
of Canada and the USA as he pursues his time at a Jesuit apostolic work. Regency be a priest or part of religious life than
Ph.D in history at Georgetown University. is followed by theology studies, where a Jesuit formation. To be called to the
Brother Homan decided to enter the Jesuits spend three more years taking Society of Jesus is, as its motto attests, to
novitiate after two years at Creighton. He graduate coursework. The scholastics be called to set the world aflame, for the
found himself called to share Christ with are ordained after 10 years, and brothers greater glory of God. @
others, and at the novitiate he discerned generally move to full-time ministry as
that God wanted him to be a brother. well at that point too. But the process
“Part of your discernment during the is not totally over. Some years later,
novitiate is being open to this, possibly sometimes over a decade later, Jesuits Grace Rice is a journalist based
being a brother. And so, I just had this take part in tertianship, where they in Chicago and a graduate of
real feeling of yeah, I was called to be complete their formation of prayer, Boston College, where she was
a Jesuit, but I don’t feel called to the guidance, and studies, preparing for final editor-in-chief of The Rock.
Currently, she works as assistant
priesthood. A brother makes much more vows. Some refer to tertianship as “the director of communications for the
sense for me,” Br. Homan says. Since school of the heart.” By pronouncing Midwest Jesuits.
the novitiate, Br. Homan’s formation has final vows, the Jesuit reaffirms his first
J e s u i ts | A p u b l i c a ti o n o f th e Mi d w e s t J e s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2020 | Page 7
A HEART ON FIRE
An
Itinerant Life
By Dan Dixon, SJ
M y single greatest hesitation in
entering the Jesuit novitiate had
nothing to do with vows of poverty,
venturing from one city to the next. But
as I prepared for yet another transition
this past summer, ending regency in
that God is calling me to be a priest.
The sadness I felt in leaving Cleveland
and the people who made it special was
chastity, or obedience. It was all the Cleveland to begin theology studies in oddly consoling. “This is working,” I
moving around that got me. “Can Berkeley, California, excitement seemed thought. My students, my coworkers,
you really form lasting and loving to be residing in a different zip code. and my Jesuit community members were
relationships while constantly on the For the last three years, one of my calling my priesthood out of me with
road?” I wondered, as I debated whether roles at Saint Ignatius High School every “We’ll miss you, Mr. Dixon” or
to pick up the phone and call the vocation “Let’s catch up once you get settled in
director. Berkeley.”
Our Jesuit formation is characterized I AM CONVINCED MORE THAN
Our Jesuit formation takes us not only
by transitions. Jesuit scholastics and EVER THAT GOD IS CALLING ME TO
to many places, it also puts us in close
brothers rarely, if ever, live in a particular BE A PRIEST.
proximity with God’s people, who time
place for longer than three years. and time again have affirmed the value
I’ve found over my eight years as a was to help start the Welsh Academy, a of our vocation, with every story they
Jesuit that itinerant life has its perks. middle school serving families of modest share and blessing they impart. As I make
I have lived in many places: St. Paul, economic means. This journey has been yet another transition this year, I am full
Cleveland, Mexico, Denver, Ann Arbor, equal parts inspiring, humbling, thrilling, of gratitude to God and everyone who
Peru, New York, Detroit, and Cleveland and terrifying. I didn’t want to leave is responsible for making this beautiful,
again. As a young man in the latter half the people who have made the Welsh itinerant life possible for my Jesuit
of my twenties and early thirties, this has Academy and Saint Ignatius High School brothers and me. @
appealed to my sense of adventure, filling so special and graced for me. The seeds
me with with memories unique to those that I and countless others have planted
places. are just starting to bloom. Cleveland was
I love sharing my stories with friends starting to feel like home, and I wanted Dan Dixon, SJ, is a first-year
and family, most of whom live a much to stay. theologian at Santa Clara
more stable and sedentary existence than And yet, as I acclimate to the very University. He entered the Society
of Jesus in 2012.
I do. Adventures are exciting, and my different routine and rhythm in theology
loved ones delight in picturing me boldly studies, I am convinced more than ever
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A Special Grace:
By Nora Dabrowski
Fr. Francis Daly and
Spiritual Direction
The Spiritual Exercises are a central tool in Ignatian spirituality and Jesuit formation.
A s a Jesuit, Fr. Francis Daly has
studied and taught this method
of prayer and reflection to countless
as a teacher. His formation studies led
him to Loyola University Chicago for
a bachelor’s in philosophy, a master’s
with the Spiritual Exercises.
His desire to teach and share the gift
of Ignatian spirituality saw Fr. Daly
Jesuits and laypeople during his career, in history and a master’s of divinity in missioned to his alma mater, Saint
introducing them to Jesus and deepening theology. During regency, Fr. Daly taught Ignatius College Prep, for six years and to
their relationship with the Lord. history and Latin at St. Xavier High St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati for
As a young man in Chicago at St. School in Cincinnati. Father Daly kept in 16 years. During that time, he focused on
Sabina elementary school, Fr. Daly was contact with Fr. Gray over the years, and religious education and faith formation of
introduced to his first directed retreat in Fr. Gray served as his spiritual director. faculty and staff.
eighth grade by Fr. Leo Belanger, SJ. Once ordained, Fr. Daly was missioned Father Daly acknowledges a special
Father Daly was moved by the reflection by Jesuit Provincial Fr. Dan Flaherty grace in being able to share the Spiritual
on his faith life that had been nurtured by to the novitiate as a minister, where he Exercises with retreatants and lead
his parents and his parish in Chicago. reconnected with his friend, Fr. Gray, spiritual direction as he does now at
In high school, Saint Ignatius College who was the novitiate’s superior. It was Manresa Retreat House in Bloomfield
Prep offered Fr. Daly more experience a unique experience for Fr. Daly, as Fr. Hills, Michigan. For Fr. Daly, teaching
in spiritual development, and he grew Gray also led him in his tertianship. people to grow in their relationship
familiar with the Society of Jesus, Father Daly was appointed as novice with God is a very rewarding part of his
meeting then-scholastics Howard Gray, co-director from 1977 to 1983 with lifelong ministry. @
SJ, and John O’Malley, SJ, at retreats. Fr. Frank Hodak, SJ, and later Fr. Tom
Through reflection, Fr. Daly found that Schubeck, SJ. While considering the
he was being called to serve the Lord. In weight of his responsibility, Fr. Daly
the Jesuits at Saint Ignatius, he saw a life sought grace and found the Lord asking Nora Dabrowski is the regional
advancement director for the
of faith and service that he wanted for him to “introduce me to them” in his Midwest Jesuits in Michigan and
himself. novice director role. He taught Jesuit northern Ohio. She is a graduate
Father Daly entered the novitiate in history to the novices and led the 30-day of Loyola University Chicago
and has worked for and with the
1959 in Milford, Ohio, and throughout retreat, building on his love of teaching Jesuits for over 26 years.
his experience he envisioned himself and previous experience in tertianship
J e s u i ts | A p u b l i c a ti o n o f th e Mi d w e s t J e s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2020 | Page 9S O C I A L & I N T E R N AT I O N A L
A Community of Hope:
ISP in Dublin
Manresa Jesuit Centre of Spirituality in Dublin, Ireland
Photo: Br. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ
By Fr. Eddie Cosgrove, SJ
The Ignatian Spirituality Project (ISP) offers programs designed for men and women in
substance use recovery who have a desire to deepen their spirituality and are open to
sharing their story and listening to others. Though founded in the Jesuit tradition, the
project does not proselytize, and people of all (or no) faith traditions are welcome.
“L ast night I had a pleasant dream I
woke up with a smile.”
The lyrics were on the screen, and
gathering in another part of the hostel,
and I was invited to drop in.
Next thing I know I’m in the middle
I did ok; nobody walked out! I think I
gave a number of other men the courage
to sing. (I didn’t set the bar too high!) It
there was no going back now. I launched of a karaoke performance with a live turned out to be a great thing to do, to
into the song, my first time singing band playing the music and the lyrics share with others a bit of craic (Gaelic
solo in public since I was a child at on a large screen. “You might sing for “fun”), and I enjoyed getting to know
family gatherings. The band played a a song, Fr. Eddie,” said the house people in this way. A number of men
tune similar to the song…and I made it manager in passing as we walked toward signed up for our first retreat, and we
through the first verse, “Sure it was my the gathering. This was one of those have had good relations with the hostel
lovely Leitrim where the Shannon waters situations that I dreaded, being expected since.
flow.” to do a party piece under pressure from This story reflects some of the nature
I was feeling some trepidation walking others. As people sang songs, drank tea, of an ISP retreat. We step out of our
into a Dublin hostel for the homeless for and chatted, I realized that this was a comfort zones and gather as equals,
the first time, where I had arranged to chance for the guys to get to know me in facilitators and retreatants alike. We look
meet the house manager to talk about the a different way, an opportunity to be part at ourselves honestly, and as we share our
Ignatian Spirituality Project (ISP). We of a community—something which was stories, with all their lights and shadows,
chatted as he showed me around, I met part and parcel of the way the Ignatian burdens are eased, light shines through,
some of the staff, and I talked with one Spirituality Project works. So with God’s and a community of hope grows.
of the men who was very interested in help, I stepped out of my comfort zone The Ignatian Spirituality Project has
coming on a retreat. However, most of and away I went, singing a song about been a key discovery in my life, and it
the men were attending a Men’s Shed my home county. reflects where my heart lies in terms of
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my ministry as a Jesuit priest. At my first Here is some of Pat’s story: meetings, and continuing to investigate
retreat on a visit to St. Louis in December Addiction took everything from me, my the nature of my faith, my life has been
2015 (I was studying theology in Toronto livelihood and the love and respect of transformed completely.
at the time), I felt God’s presence and my family and friends. This culminated I am now over two years free from
action powerfully during that retreat,
helping me forward on my own journey
of liberation, from the addictive thought
patterns and behaviors that had a hold
on me. Of course I was going to “help”
those in recovery from homelessness
and addiction, but it was through the
community we all formed together that
God’s liberating action was present for all
to share in and to help each other grow in
freedom.
Following the promptings of the
Holy Spirit, I was led to help start ISP
in Toronto during my theology studies,
with the dream of bringing it to Ireland. Fr. Eddie Cosgrove, SJ (left), with his friend, former
With the support of donors for new ISP ISP retreatant Pat
cities, the efforts of the ISP head office
in Chicago, and our volunteer team in
Ireland, that dream has come true—our
first ISP men’s retreat took place in in me becoming homeless. I entered a alcohol and drugs and have my own
August 2019, and our first women’s treatment program and upon completion place to live. I began attending university
retreat in February 2020, at Manresa moved on to emergency accommodations in September with the backing of a
Jesuit Centre of Spirituality in Dublin. in 2018. Here I gained acceptance of scholarship, studying social work and
Since then we have had a follow-up the causes and consequences of my social policy.
retreat and regular ongoing in-person addiction. Despite being clean and The people of ISP Dublin were the only
group spiritual accompaniment with the sober for a number of years and starting ones who came in to see us, to offer us
men’s group. to make some moves forward in my a place to go away for the weekend, and
The arrival of COVID-19 has been a personal life, being homeless made me this meant so much to me. @
huge change. Unfortunately, we have had feel unwanted, unheard, and invisible in
to cancel a number of retreats. However, today’s society. The Ignatian Spirituality Dublin is the newest affiliate in the ISP
we moved our ongoing accompaniment Project gave me a safe and secure Network. In 2018, an institutional affiliate
men’s group online, ran a follow-up environment to discuss this with other relationship was formalized with the Jesuits
retreat online for the women’s group, and men who were experiencing the same. in Ireland.
began ongoing online accompaniment.
Since engaging with ISP, I have grown
We also ran four all-team training
closer to the members of this group and
workshops on the 12 Steps and Ignatian For more information, visit
am able to share with them openly and
spirituality and have kept up contact with ISPRetreats.org/Dublin.
honestly about how I feel, and in turn, I
our two main temporary accommodation
providers (so far virus-free). Our retreat have become more considerate to all of
center has adapted so that it can open for those experiencing homelessness. The
weekend retreat at Manresa gave me Fr. Eddie Cosgrove, SJ, from
smaller groups (which suits ISP) in these Dromahair in Leitrim, joined the
times, and we hope to run a retreat in the respite from hostel accommodations, and Irish Jesuits in 2007 after working
next month or two when it is safe to do through group work, sharing, prayer, and as a consulting civil engineer
for several years in Dublin. He is
so. meditation, I gained a renewed faith that currently based at the Jesuits’
Recently, I visited a friend of mine, Pat, God was still present in my life despite city-center parish on Gardiner
my present circumstances. Street in Dublin, working in
who I met on our first retreat. He offered spirituality and social justice,
to tell his story, “if it could help the Since entering a treatment program, including as director of ISP Dublin.
homeless in any way.” committing to going to regular 12-step
J e s u i ts | A p u b l i c a ti o n o f th e Mi d w e s t J e s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2020 | Page 11LEADERSHIP
WORDS TO LEAD BY
Let it be presupposed that every good
Christian is to be more ready to save his
neighbor’s proposition than to condemn it.
Jesuit-Educated:
Poised for Leadership in Service to Others
If he cannot save it, let him inquire how his
neighbor means it. By Kristine Mackey
If his neighbor means it badly, let him
correct it with charity.
If that is not enough, let him seek every S aint Ignatius of Loyola had many
things to say about leadership, so it’s
not hard to imagine why Jesuit-educated
closely with the
Church and other
institutions…
suitable means to bring his neighbor to
mean it well and thus to save himself. people of faith take those lessons and we are not just
apply them to leadership roles within the pushing religion,
— St. Ignatius of Loyola in the Spiritual
broader Church; nor is it hard to imagine but we value
Exercises
that Jesuit-educated people of faith would these cultures,
contribute their talent to institutions and look for
Ignatius asks you to see the world as your working Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, for the overlap
monastery. the greater glory of God. between culture
— Fr. David Fleming, SJ John Liston, executive director and spirituality.
of Serra International and a Loyola Vatican II was
Ignatian spirituality, like all good University Chicago law graduate, has successful because it recognized we
Christian spirituality, is both a “calling” and dedicated his life needed to meet people where they are and
a “sending,” so in that respect, it is both to his work in become culturally responsive. This is so
following and leading. One is being called the promotion of important—now more than ever.”
to follow Jesus, and at the very same time vocations. Liston Sister Donna Markham, OP, CEO
says, “I rely on of Catholic Charities USA, is a graduate
sent out to lead, that is, to role model a
the theological of the University of Detroit Mercy.
way of living (Jesus’ way) and to influence
underpinnings She has also
others positively: That’s the essence of interwoven into responded to the
leadership, showing a way and influencing my education call to provide
others toward it. in the law. The meaningful
— Chris Lowney Jesuit idea leadership for
of meeting the moment:
We should seek a “culture of encounter,” people where they are is so important to “Catholic
where people “should be passionate about Serra now, because potential vocation Charities is
meeting others, seeking points of contact, discerners interact differently through facing an
building bridges, planning a project that social media and other channels…We unprecedented
includes everyone.” need to lift the works of so many unsung need for our
— Pope Francis in “Fratelli Tutti” heroes—priests who live great lives, services across
relatable priests—so that young people the country as
can imagine themselves in the role.” more people are out of work, lacking
Certain tenets of the Jesuit tradition
Effective leadership must speak to the sufficient food, in danger of losing their
have sustained me. Precision of thought moment and the context. Much has been homes, and facing serious emotional
and economy of expression inform how written about situational leadership but consequences related to the pandemic.
I think and how I communicate…Also our rapidly changing world calls those Ours is sacred work.” As for her Jesuit
importantly, the emphasis on service to concepts to the forefront. Brian Collier, education, Sr. Donna said, “All my
others. Now is the time for us to care director of the American Indian Catholic professors were deeply committed to
selflessly about one another. Schools Network and a graduate of providing solid, values-based training that
— Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Loyola University Chicago, said in these prepared us well to assume leadership
times, “We are very involved in truth and roles in society, Church, and professional
reconciliation projects and want to work spheres.”
Page 1 2 | J e su it s | A pu b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t Je s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2 0 2 0LEADERSHIP
Jesuit Fr. importantly for what was happening in to credit my lack of ability, not my lack
Mitch Pacwa, our lives.” of will, for I’d have gladly done better if
founder of All emphasized the high value they I could, but it was the best I had in me.’”
Ignatius placed on their Jesuit Catholic education For Collier, those words guide his work.
Productions and how it had enabled them to be As for Fr. Pacwa, he plans to continue
and host of better, more analytical decision makers. to heed the words of Ecclesiastes 11:1
the EWTN (a Brian Collier cites Fr. Michael Himes, and to “cast his bread on the water” as he
global Catholic renowned theologian and professor at brings the person of Christ to his work.
media network) Undoubtedly Kelly, Markham, Liston,
Notre Dame and Boston College, as
flagship program and Collier will be doing the same. @
having a profound impact on him. “In
EWTN Live,
his final lecture, Fr. Himes paraphrased
is a graduate
of Loyola University and University of Chaucer at the end of his Canterbury
Tales: ‘If I have done any of you any Kristine Mackey is VP for
Detroit Mercy, and he also expressed Advancement & Communications
deep gratitude and humility about the good, I ask you to give thanks to God. If I for the Midwest Jesuits.
wonderful care he received from his have done any of you any harm, I ask you
Jesuit teachers. He saw tremendous
EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP MUST A SAMPLE OF JESUIT-EDUCATED CHURCH LEADERS FROM OR IN THE MIDWEST
SPEAK TO THE MOMENT AND THE Bishop Steven Raica Diocese of Birmingham, AL University of Detroit Mercy
CONTEXT. Bishop Michael G. McGovern Diocese of Belleville, IL Saint Ignatius College Prep & Loyola
University Chicago
academic growth because of their cura Auxiliary Bishop Robert Casey Archdiocese of Chicago, IL Loyola University Chicago (Niles College)
personalis, care for the whole person. Auxiliary Bishop John Manz Archdiocese of Chicago, IL Loyola University Chicago (Niles College)
Father Pacwa cites Fr. John O’Malley, Coadjutor Bishop Louis Tylka Diocese of Peoria, IL Loyola University Chicago (Niles College)
SJ, who taught him about the works Cardinal Blasé Cupich Archdiocese of Chicago, IL Gregorian University, Rome
of St. Augustine, and Fr. Ted Ross, SJ, Bishop Ronald Hicks Diocese of Joliet, IL Loyola University Chicago (Niles College)
who encouraged him to always seek out Bishop R. Walter Nickless Diocese of Sioux City, IA Gregorian University, Rome
and read the original text, as opposed Archbishop Bernard Hebda Archdiocese of St. Paul & Gregorian University, Rome
to writings about the text. He says there Minneapolis, MN
were many others, and the background Bishop John Quinn Diocese of Winona-Rochester, MN University of Detroit Mercy
they gave him “was priceless.” Bishop Michael J. Hoeppner Diocese of Crookston, MN Gregorian University, Rome
Patrick Kelly, Deputy Supreme Bishop David Kagan Diocese of Bismarck, ND Gregorian University, Rome
Bishop Joseph Hanefeldt Diocese of Grand Island, NE Gregorian University, Rome
Knight of the Knights of Columbus and
Archbishop George Lucas Archdiocese of Omaha, NE Saint Louis University
a Marquette University undergraduate
Bishop Daniel Thomas Diocese of Toledo, OH Gregorian University, Rome
and law grad, said, “My Jesuit education
Archbishop Dennis Schnurr Diocese of Cincinnati, OH Gregorian University, Rome
helped develop
Bishop Jeffrey M. Monforton Diocese of Steubenville, OH Gregorian University, Rome
the analytic and
Bishop John Doerfler Diocese of Marquette, MI Gregorian University, Rome
discernment tools
Bishop David Walkowiak Diocese of Grand Rapids, MI Saint Ignatius High School, Cleveland
necessary to
Archbishop Allen Vigneron Archdiocese of Detroit, MI Gregorian University, Rome
make decisions
Bishop Earl Boyea Diocese of Lansing, MI Gregorian University, Rome
that are in accord
Bishop Robert McClory Diocese of Gary, IN Gregorian University, Rome
with the will of
Bishop Kevin Rhoades Diocese of Fort Wayne- Gregorian University, Rome
God and serve the South Bend, IN
common good.” Bishop Timothy Doherty Diocese of Lafayette, IN Loyola University Chicago & Gregorian
As for the Jesuits University, Rome
at Marquette, Bishop Donald Hying Diocese of Madison, WI Marquette University
Kelly says, “I Bishop William P. Callahan Diocese of LaCrosse, WI Loyola University Chicago
came away from these experiences with Archbishop Jerome Listecki Archdiocese of Milwaukee, WI Loyola University Chicago
a profound respect for these men. I was Bishop David Ricken Diocese of Green Bay, WI Gregorian University, Rome
so impressed by their love of God and the Bishop John Stowe, O.F.M. Conv. Diocese of Lexington, KY Saint Louis University & Jesuit School of
Theology (Santa Clara)
care they showed for their students, and
J e s u i ts | A p u b l i c a ti o n o f th e Mi d w e s t J e s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2020 | Page 13MINISTRIES
Who Stepped Up?
Jesuit schools in Chicago, Detroit, and South Dakota—and others
across the Midwest—rose swiftly to meet COVID-19 challenges
By Michael Austin
I n South Dakota, a Jesuit on the
Rosebud Indian Reservation prayed
the rosary outside a dining room window.
March, and by the following Tuesday,
online learning had begun. CJA also
organized a food drive and made
hard the pandemic hit our neighborhood.”
CJA offered three types of food boxes:
produce, dairy and produce, and protein,
In Detroit, high school seniors distanced biweekly home deliveries to compensate which contained assorted frozen meats.
themselves in the Cathedral of the Most for the breakfasts and lunches CJA Each car was allowed four boxes, but
Blessed Sacrament. In Chicago, a line students would have eaten at school. families often insisted on taking only
of cars routinely stretched for blocks, As shutdown effects worsened—via what they knew they’d need, Lynch says.
and school alumni—some of them still lost work and income—CJA organized On distribution days, school nurse
teenagers—returned to volunteer. a more comprehensive food-distribution Pam Kiefer offered health consultations
In the wake of COVID-19 shutdowns, program. Working with Gourmet Gorilla, to people in line, and throughout the
Jesuit organizations across the Midwest CJA utilized a United States Department shutdown Principal Thomas Beckley
acted fast to serve members of their of Agriculture program that purchases conducted regular pastoral wellness calls.
schools and communities with food surplus produce and dairy which “To feel like you’re doing something
shortage solutions and technology otherwise would have gone to waste. At constructive and helping other people is
assistance. They also offered much- these weekly CJA distributions, cars lined really good for your heart and soul right
needed spiritual and moral support. up for blocks. At its peak, the program now,” says Lynch. He wasn’t surprised at
distributed 600 25-pound food boxes a all when former CJA students returned to
CHICAGO week—and not just to CJA families. help. “That’s exactly who we know our
Chicago Jesuit Academy (CJA), a full- “All of that was a very humbling alumni to be.”
scholarship lower and middle school, process,” says CJA President
ended in-person learning on a Friday in Matthew Lynch. “I think it gave us an DETROIT
overwhelming understanding of just how When COVID-19 arrived in Detroit,
Loyola High School’s zip code and the
surrounding area, where most Loyola
High students live, was the hardest-hit
area in the city.
“The coronavirus really ravaged our
community,” says Fr. Adam DeLeon, SJ,
a Loyola teacher and the school’s campus
minister. “All of our students know
someone who has died, whether it’s an
extended family member or someone on
their street.”
Despite the heartache, by June there
was cause for celebration as Loyola
became the only Detroit school to hold
Chicago Jesuit Academy distributed boxes of food
to families in need in the neighborhood, with the an in-person graduation. But it was a
program reaching a peak of 600 25-pound boxes a long road getting there. In March, when
week. parents assured Loyola their kids were
equipped with technology for online
learning, the school didn’t realize parents
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dozen people or more—live in one
small house. Diabetes is common, and
the nearest intensive care unit is 200
miles away. All of this made a bad
situation worse.
“People have been very afraid,” Fr.
Kubicki says.
When the reservation’s 12-step
recovery center closed, its director, Jim
Stands, stayed in touch with attendees
via daily phone calls and emails. While
the mission’s churches were shut down,
Fr. Lafontaine and Fr. Jacob Boddicker,
SJ, did everything from livestreaming
Mass on YouTube to distributing
Loyola High School in Detroit held an in-person graduation, Communion in church parking lots and
observing all social distancing guidelines, on June 17 at
the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament. homes, including a nursing home where
Fr. Boddicker prayed the rosary outside
the dining room.
were talking about cell phones. Loyola
loaned out all of its Chromebooks
and raised money to buy more. The
school also helped boost home internet
services as they bogged down under
the strain of multiple users at once. But
graduation remained a question mark.
“Graduation is really a hallmark
moment for our guys,” Fr. DeLeon
says. “Graduation rates in the African
American community, specifically for
Black men, are so low that it takes a
communal effort to make it happen, and Sapa Un Catholic Academy teacher Theresa Leader
that’s what graduation here represents.” Charge helps pack a truck before distributing
food to students’ families on the Rosebud Indian
By June, the Archdiocese of Detroit Reservation.
had resumed Masses for up to 175
people, so Loyola asked if its 30
seniors could graduate in the cathedral.
They could, with two family guests each. Many of its 53 students would miss the In every case, stepping up was the most
“It was a huge collaboration,” Fr. DeLeon meals they would have received at school, important thing.
says. “The guys were super grateful, says Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ, the mission’s “I think the biggest way we could ease
and they took it seriously. They all wore director. So, in collaboration with the the fears of the people we serve was to be
matching Loyola Bulldog masks, which organization Feeding South Dakota, and present,” Fr. Kubicki says. @
was awesome.” with the help of donations, food was
made available for families to pick up or
SOUTH DAKOTA have delivered by school staff.
Sapa Un Catholic Academy is operated After securing a grant from the South
Michael Austin is a freelance
by the St. Francis Mission on South Dakota Community Foundation, the writer based in Chicago, a national
Dakota’s Rosebud Indian Reservation. mission tasked Fr. Jim Lafontaine, SJ, James Beard Award finalist for
When the school shut down in March, with shopping for food and delivering it magazine feature writing, and
a former nationally syndicated
Rosebud’s Lakota people had reason to be to families. columnist for the Chicago Tribune.
especially concerned. In some cases, several generations—a
J e s u i ts | A p u b l i c a ti o n o f th e Mi d w e s t J e s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2020 | Page 15E D U C AT I O N
Fertile Ground
Campion High School played an important role in many lives
By Amy Korpi
W hat does a Jesuit provincial have in
common with a former Wisconsin
governor, a Pulitzer Prize-winning
author, an Emmy-nominated comedian,
a former president of Mexico, and a
groundbreaking physician?
All attended Campion High School
in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Those
mentioned above are Midwest Jesuits
provincial, Fr. Brian Paulson, SJ;
Governor Patrick Lucey; Garry Wills
(author of Lincoln at Gettysburg); George
Wendt (best known as “Norm” on the
Two students exit Hoffman Athletic Center hall
sitcom Cheers); Presidente Vicente Fox; at the former Campion High School. Photo:
and James West, MD (who served on Campion Forever newsletter, originally from a 1971
the team that performed the world’s first promotional booklet.
human organ transplant and became a
pioneer in addiction treatment).
he says. “One of the leaders was Tony Staber, SJ, in his essay, “A Short History
A PRIVILEGE
Altimari, who is now an accomplished of Campion High School.” Campion was
Following in the footsteps of his father surgeon in Wheaton, Illinois. My role also renowned for its exceptional science
and older brother, Fr. Paulson enrolled at was on keyboards. We played songs like program.
Campion. “Some people think of being ‘You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet’ (Bachman- It all started in 1880, when the Jesuits
sent to boarding school as a punishment, Turner Overdrive), ‘Color My World’ founded the College of the Sacred Heart
but we thought of it as a treat, a privilege (Chicago), ‘Brown Sugar’ (The Rolling as a post-secondary institution open to
really,” he recalls. “The Jesuits there were Stones), ‘Stairway to Heaven’ (Led the public. From 1888 to 1898, it became
great role models. They seemed very
Zeppelin), and many more. Scholastic a Jesuit house of formation, until the
happy and enjoyed each other’s company,
Roc O’Connor, SJ, was one of our doors opened again to the public as a high
and they could speak with familiarity
‘roadies’ (aka chaperones!) when we school and college. By 1913, the school’s
about God. As a result of their influence
played at a bar in downtown Prairie du name had changed to Campion College
and the overall experience, the Society
Chien. Who gets to do that when you are of the Sacred Heart, taking Blessed
of Jesus has formed my mind, heart, and
spirit since I was a student at Campion.” 15 years old? The 1970s were a different (now Saint) Edmund Campion, SJ, as
Today, Fr. Paulson’s Campion period and place. Good times.” its patron. When, in 1925, its college
connections are still present. Two Jesuits division closed, Campion High School
WELLSPRING OF VOCATIONS assumed the name it would have for the
he met there, Fr. Daniel McDonald and
Fr. Albert DiUlio, are on his provincial As noted by Fr. Paulson, extracurricular next 50 years.
staff. activities were a prominent feature According to Br. Staber, Campion
He also has many good memories. in Campion life. In addition to high fostered a total of 472 vocations to
“A highlight of my sophomore year academic standards, the school was religious life, including diocesan
was participating with some senior guys “known and noted” for “religious clergy, members of various religious
who were friends of my older brother dedication, dramatics, musical excellence, congregations, and, of course, Jesuit
Marty in a band we called Open Road,” and athletic prowess,” wrote Br. Sylvester priests and brothers.
Page 1 6 | J e su it s | A pu b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t Je s u i ts | F al l /W i nter 2 0 2 0You can also read
