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USA MIDWEST PROVINCE | SPRING 2021 Midwest Jesuits Abroad Wisdom and Lessons from around the Globe Also in This Issue: Celebrating 500 Years since St. Ignatius’s Conversion n Introducing New Provincial Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ Retirees Embark on Ignatian-inspired Journey
Dear Friends, I am humbled. These are the words I used when I wrote my first message in this magazine as the first provincial of the newly formed USA Midwest Province. And they are just as true today—in this, my last message to you as provincial in Jesuits Magazine. I have been humbled to work with my Jesuit brothers and our lay collaborators to pursue our mission, and I have been humbled to experience the fruits of your prayers and support in all that we do. I am pleased that Father General Arturo Sosa, SJ, has named Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, as our next provincial (see page 12). A proven leader, Fr. Kiser brings considerable pastoral and administrative gifts, along with international experience, to his role of caring for the Jesuits and the ministries of our province. I am equally grateful for his deep and abiding love for the Society of Jesus and its service to the Church. One such mutual goal involves the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation dialogue that has been taking place among the Society of Jesus, Georgetown University, and the Descendants of Jesuit Slaveholding (page 9). President of the Jesuit Conference, former Chicago-Detroit Provincial Timothy Kesicki, SJ, has been engaged in this vital work for several years; it is just now bearing fruit. The Descendants have invited us to partner with them on a common project—their vision of a new charitable foundation. While much work remains, this is an important moment as we embrace a partnership that seeks progress in healing racial divisions. If you are so moved, I invite you to join us in supporting this ambitious and important project which flows from the heart of the gospel. Briefly, this magazine has much more good news to share: a new program called the Ignatian Legacy Fellows (page 6); our cover story (page 8), which provides perspectives from Midwest Jesuits who are serving abroad; an up-and-coming playwright (page 13); a student leader in activism and social justice (page 16); and several food industry professionals who have improvised during the pandemic (page 20). Finally, we are celebrating as we embark on the Ignatian Year (page 4), which begins on May 20— the 500th anniversary of the date a cannonball hit Iñigo de Loyola and forever changed his life. This jubilee will be an opportunity to rediscover our roots, while considering the “cannonball moments” in our own lives, through which we might hear God calling us to our own conversion, as we endeavor “to see all things new in Christ.” It is my prayer that you might experience such transformation as you ever deepen your relationship with God. And it is my fervent prayer that you know how grateful we are for your support of and participation in our mission. In Christ, V. Rev. Brian G. Paulson, SJ Provincial, USA Midwest Province
MIDWEST ® USA MIDWEST PROVINCE Spring 2021 Evangelizing Through Drama Page 13 ON THE COVER Midwest Jesuits are presently serving and studying in every corner of the world, as the Society of Jesus has done for centuries. Many of the locales mentioned in the story can be found on the cover. How many can you find? Imanol Ruiz, graduate of Cristo Rey Jesuit High Milwaukee, emphasizes the importance of his Jesuit education in his success as a playwright. Illustration: Jacqui Langeland Photo: Jeff Zmania For additional content and more information, connect with us online: WWW.JESUITSMIDWEST.ORG Page 8 Page 12 Close Encounters of the Global Kind Passing the Torch to Set the World on Midwest Jesuits share lessons and Fire Search “Midwest Jesuits” on Facebook, reflections from their time abroad. As the V. Rev. Brian Paulson, SJ, takes Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Instagram on the role of president at the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United Visit our photo galleries at midwestjesuits.smugmug.com States, the Midwest Jesuits welcome Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, as the new provincial. JOIN THE JESUIT PRAYER COMMUNITY! Page 15 Page 24 From the Earliest Days of Jesuit A Pastoral Workhorse JesuitPrayer.org Education Father Stan Czarnecki, SJ, spreads joy ■ Daily Scripture, Ignatian The Pontifical Gregorian University, with his various forms of ministry. reflection, and Ignatian established by St. Ignatius, turns 470 prayer years old in 2021. ■ Free iPhone, iPad, and Android Apps ■ Submit a prayer request ■ Download prayer cards ■ Free daily email ■ Translation now available ALSO IN THIS ISSUE Shop for Mass and News............................................. 2 A Heart on Fire.............................. 14 In Memoriam................................. 22 Special Occasion Cards at Store.JesuitsMidwest.org Special: Ignatian Year................... 4 Education...................................... 16 Assignments................................. 23 Spirituality..................................... 6 A Jesuit’s Journey........................ 18 Advancement................................ 25 Reconciliation............................... 7 Arts & Culture............................... 20
NEWS Loyola University Chicago’s 3,100-square-foot The Jesuits celebrated 100 years of working in Patna, Colleen M. Hanycz, PhD greenhouse, the Ecodome India, on March 3, 2021. Loyola University Chicago The Jesuits Celebrate 100 Years Xavier University Names First Launches School of of Working in Patna Female, Lay President Environmental Sustainability This year, the Society of Jesus is celebrating Xavier University has announced that Colleen Loyola University Chicago has formally the 100th anniversary of Jesuits working in M. Hanycz, PhD, will serve as the 35th announced the launch of its new School Patna, India. Many American Jesuits have left president of Xavier University, starting July 1, of Environmental Sustainability (SES), the their mark over the century, such as Jesuit Frs. 2021. Dr. Hanycz’s leadership, academic first school dedicated to environmental Ed Daly in catechetics formation, Bob Grib’s credentials, character, and commitment sustainability among Jesuit institutions teaching Hindi to young Jesuits, and Robert to Catholic higher education highlight her worldwide. Stegman, who designed and constructed many ability to serve as its next president and lead The school will build on the foundation of landmark buildings in the Patna Province. Xavier into the future. Dr. Hanycz currently the Institute of Environmental Sustainability The first Jesuits actually came to Patna serves as president of La Salle University in (IES). IES has demonstrated success at the 400 years ago, in 1620, from neighboring Philadelphia, a Lasallian, Catholic university. undergraduate level and, more recently, the Bengal. That mission didn’t last, but in 1919, Prior to that, she served for seven years as graduate level, putting Loyola on the map Pope Benedict XV created the Patna Diocese principal (president) of Brescia University as a leader in environmental sustainability. under the auspices of the Jesuits of the College in London, Ontario, Canada, a Catholic Other achievements of the Institute include Missouri Province. women’s university in the Ursuline tradition. the founding of an annual climate change On March 16, 1921, Jesuit Frs. William “Xavier’s lived mission is deeply appealing conference, the establishment of the student- Eline, Henry Milen, Patrick Troy, Thomas to me,” Dr. Hanycz noted. “As a Jesuit, run farmers’ market and greenhouse, and Kelley, and Edward Anderson arrived in Patna Catholic university committed to serving the development of hand sanitizer during the as the first American Jesuits and laid the society by forming students intellectually, COVID-19 pandemic. foundation for the advances we see today. morally, and spiritually for lives of solidarity The school’s five-year plan advances As decades passed, Jesuits in Patna focused and service, Xavier’s values strongly align Loyola’s vision of amplifying and on serving the poor, founding and nurturing with my own. Building on the tremendous enhancing cross-school interdisciplinary numerous Christian faith communities, legacy of Fr. Michael Graham, SJ, I am excited collaborations, scholarship, and research. spreading education, promoting economic to partner with Xavier’s community in writing The plan includes the establishment of development, and feeding hungry mouths so the next chapter in its storied history.” five new interdisciplinary areas of study; that they could, in turn, feed their souls. Dr. Hanycz will become the first lay and development of interdisciplinary research and Today Patna serves 328 million people first female president in Xavier’s 190-year scholarship across schools; the goal of nearly in the two least-developed states of North history. Dr. Hanycz has done this before, tripling SES undergraduate and graduate India. This great need offers both challenges serving as both firsts for La Salle as well. A enrollments; expansion of graduate student and opportunities. The Patna Province faces a former associate professor of law, Dr. Hanycz research; increased research funding and decline in resources and in Jesuit candidates possesses an excellent teaching and academic publication; growth of professional seminar while also staring down potential opposition background with a demonstrated passion for and conference offerings; and employment and persecution from fundamentalist forces. student-centered education. opportunities with hires in each department The challenges are real and great, but so, too, to increase diversity of faculty and staff and is the vision for the future. fortify interdisciplinary research teams. Watch Fr. Brian Paulson’s message to Patna at JesuitsMidwest.org/Patna100 Pa g e 2 | Jesuits | A pu b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t Je s u i ts | Spri ng 2 0 2 1
JESUIT CONNECTIONS Stephanie Ibemere, PhD, RN Hometown: Tulsa, OK School(s) Attended: Xavier University and University of Cincinnati Profession: Postdoctoral Fellow-Nurse Creighton president Fr. Daniel Hendrickson, SJ, (left) Scientist with board of trustees chair Mike McCarthy (right) How did you get involved with the Jesuits? Creighton University Receives I first learned about the Jesuits during my $25 Million Gift to Establish college search. Once I was accepted to Global Medical Program Xavier University, I remember seeing the Creighton University is set to become the course requirements for my degrees, and largest Catholic health sciences educator in I thought, “This is going to be quite the the United States. The university has received experience.” Getting to take philosophy, a transformational $25 million gift from an theology, and ethics-related courses as a anonymous foundation to establish the Arrupe science major produced an environment the value of cura personalis and magis, both Global Scholars and Partnerships Program. in which I could begin my process of values I had seen in Fr. B but hadn’t truly Named for Fr. Pedro Arrupe, SJ, 28th addressing health inequities. The idea of understood. Superior General of the Society of Jesus and living our lives as human beings in solidarity founder of the Jesuit Refugee Service, the for and with others enlivened my spirit, How do you bring Jesuit values into the program seeks to improve the health and well- as this is a paradigm I was familiar with workplace? being of the international poor and to educate from my Nigerian background and in the future servant-leader physicians. The gift South African philosophy of Ubuntu. As I While at Xavier, I was selected to be a will support 10 cohorts of 12 students from grew in my understanding of science, my student participant for the Guatemala Creighton’s medical programs in both Omaha involvement with the Jesuits increased interfaith medical service trip founded in the and Phoenix over 10 years beginning in 2022. my understanding of myself, my role in the former Office of Interfaith and Community Arrupe Global Scholars will earn a medical greater community, and how my hopes for a Engagement by Rabbi Abie Ingber. After a degree while working alongside international more just world could be realized. transformative experience in the western health care workers and Creighton faculty highlands of Guatemala, I was asked to on multiyear projects aimed at addressing How have the Jesuits impacted your life? join the medical team as its triage nurse. significant health challenges in locations The Jesuits and their teachings have really This opportunity galvanized my opportunity around the world. become part of my life “scaffolding.” If I to engage in “service rooted in justice and “Creighton is known for producing were to name one Jesuit in particular, it love,” through the value of cura personalis. physicians committed to the Jesuit value of would be Fr. Al Bischoff, SJ. Seeing him on My involvement in this work also rekindled caring for the whole patient—mind, body, and campus always meant I was going to have a my deepest desire of learning more about spirit. Our graduates then go on to careers in good day. He really is an embodiment of how creating justice in global health so that I which service for and with others is central to show compassion and genuine interest could return to West Africa and partner to their practices,” said Michael Kavan, PhD, in your fellow human being. From him, I with local communities who wished to build associate dean for student affairs at the healthcare capacity. Much of my research learned what it means to ask the question, Creighton University School of Medicine. and activism is influenced by my time at “How are you?” and to take the time to “The Arrupe Global Scholars and Partnerships Xavier and Jesuit values. My research focus listen to the response. My experience as Program will build upon this foundation in an undergraduate solidified my decision is aimed at improving health inequities forming future doctors who consciously and to return and complete a second-degree rooted in social injustices affecting our compassionately care for some of the world’s nursing program as a graduate student. It global family. most vulnerable populations.” was in this program I learned more about Jesuits | 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 | Spring 2021 | Page 3
SPECIAL: IGNATIAN YEAR From Worldly Cavalier to Limping Pilgrim to Spiritual Leader By Amy Korpi Society of Jesus M ay 20, 2021—the 500th anniversary of the date a cannonball hit Father Arturo Sosa, Superior General of the Society of Jesus, has said, “It is my prepares to Iñigo de Loyola and forever changed his life—the Society of Jesus and the hope and desire that we can work together among the entire rediscover its Ignatian family will start a worldwide celebration: the Ignatian Year. This Ignatian family to celebrate this founder’s legacy jubilee will include March 12, 2022, (the 400th anniversary of the canonization year, rediscover our roots, and IGNATIUS 500 and inspiration of St. Ignatius of Loyola and St. Francis Xavier), and end with St. Ignatius’s feast thus renew ourselves and our outlook to the world.” during “Ignatian day on July 31, 2022. He has called the Ignatian Year an opportunity for people today to have an experience of conversion—to consider Year” The Portuguese Province will be publishing a Portuguese translation of the comic on the life of St. the “cannonball moments” in our own Ignatius, in collaboration with the youth ministry of lives, through which we might hear God the province. The original is in German: Ignatius - Auf der Suche nach mehr (Ignatius - Looking for More). calling us to transform our own mission. The theme of the celebration is “to see all things new in Christ.” Activities will aim to deepen the Ignatian family’s understanding of and focus on the Universal Apostolic Preferences—the preferences that orient the Society of Jesus toward areas that are vital for our world today. WHAT IS A CANNONBALL MOMENT? Sometimes epiphanies come from unexpected moments, and a perceived Pa g e 4 | Jesuits | A pu b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t Je s u i ts | Spri ng 2 0 2 1
SPECIAL: IGNATIAN YEAR Fortunately, the French admired his courage. Instead of taking him to prison, they treated his injuries and carried him to the castle of Loyola. When doctors realized his leg was not healing properly, they broke it again and reset it. By this point, his strength began to fail, and he received last rites. Amazingly, he survived. But all was still not well. Because of the way his bones settled, one protruded below the knee. He “could not bear this,” according to his autobiography, “since he intended to live a life at court.” So, he asked for the bone to be cut off. Although the doctors warned Ignatius Catholic Life Communities will organize a world that “it would cause him more suffering meeting of youth entitled “Embrace the World in than all that had preceded,” vanity an Ignatian Way.” The meeting will take place in Loyola, Spain, and will be broadcast completely prevailed, and he endured the torture. online July 29–31. Details will be shared on our As Ignatius recovered, he became social media and website later this spring. bored and restless and asked for some He began with elementary grammar romance novels to pass the time. All that lessons and moved on to studies at the could be found were The Life of Christ universities of Alcalá and Salamanca. failure prompts a new way of life. and Flowers of the Saints. While these Eventually, he came to study at the Such was the case for Ignatius. In readings caused him to meditate more on University of Paris, where he met fellow what is now known as his “cannonball holy things, he still returned to “what he students, including Peter Faber and moment,” Ignatius experienced a should do in honor of an illustrious lady.” Francis Xavier, who would become the calamity that marked the beginning of This doesn’t sound like the St. Ignatius first members of the Society of Jesus. a new purpose—a spiritual journey of we know today, does it? “It took many setbacks, crises, and conversion to follow Christ more closely, But God works patiently. Those challenges to form St. Ignatius out of and, ultimately, a catalyst to establish the readings about the life of Jesus and Iñigo de Loyola,” Fr. Brian Paulson, Society of Jesus. the saints began to make inroads into SJ, provincial of the Midwest Jesuits, Ignatius’s way of thinking. says. “But his cannonball moment had THE STORY IN BRIEF As his autobiography tells us, an impact with great significance, not From the time he was young, Ignatius eventually his “eyes were opened to the only for Ignatius, or even the Jesuits, but had been a vain courtier seeking military vanity of life and the reality of eternity for all who have drawn from Ignatian prowess, excitement, material wealth, and compared with the worldliness of the life spirituality in their own faith journey, and glory. While he was a practicing Catholic, he had been leading…” for the Church at large. What perhaps he fashioned himself more as a soldier His transformation was underway, and is most important for us at this time, and a ladies’ man—an ambitious knight the question was now how to live out however, is the idea that we can all on the move in sixteenth-century Europe. his new purpose. He set off by himself, experience events which trigger a form That was until the Battle of Pamplona. first as an ascetic in Spain and then as a of conversion, a desire to see things new While fighting for the Spanish against a pilgrim to the Holy Land. Forced to go in Christ. In short, anyone can be hit by a French army, Ignatius—who was by then home by the authorities in Jerusalem, cannonball.” @ a captain of infantry—convinced some however, his second career evaporated. compatriots that they must hold out, even Ignatius was persistent, though. As he though the cause was hopeless and most says in his autobiography, after learning others had given up. Then, after a six- “that it was God’s will that he should Amy Korpi, a freelance writer hour bombardment, an event took place not stay in Jerusalem, he pondered in with two degrees from Marquette that would change Ignatius’s life forever: his heart what he should do and finally University, is now based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She has been a cannonball shattered one of his knees decided to study for a time in order to be working with the Jesuits since and severely wounded the other. able to help souls.” 1998. Jesuits | 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 | Spring 2021 | Page 5
SPIRITUALITY The Ignatian Legacy Fellows with undergraduate students at Santa Clara University What Do You Ask of Me Now, God? By Patrick Kennedy Mariann Salisbury and Fr. Michael Garanzini, SJ T he retirement party has concluded, the new home office has been set up, but for what? So many retired or semi- experience the global Jesuit mission, interacting with young people engaged in Jesuit-sponsored works, and making from almost day one. When we launched the program, we thought this might be something for people with a great deal yet retired people who have experienced a pilgrimage to walk in the steps of St. to give. The program fellows will tell you rich careers, sticky problems to solve, Ignatius of Loyola. The meaningful that we’re meeting that need and goal.” people to care for, or businesses to journey begins with a turn inward, John Fontana, co-founder of the build, find themselves asking the critical is strengthened by peer support, and Ignatian Legacy Fellows, says that question—what now? One person spoke establishes new relationships within the participants have found tremendous of calculating how many days are left broader community. It is an Ignatian- comfort in working toward what they on the earth for him (given the average inspired journey that invites people of all see as their personal capstone project. age of death for a male) and how many faiths. As co-founder Mariann Salisbury He sums it up with yet another complex subsequent hours. One person described aptly describes it, “It’s not retiring, it’s question, “Will I pass the final test?” the profound sense of loss of meaning and rewiring.” For more information about the intention. Another spoke of flailing from The program has demonstrated early Ignatian Legacy Fellows, visit their one possible new business to another success, forming people who have website at LUC.edu/ILF or contact and yet feeling empty. But the critical found new passions and reconnected to co-directors Mariann Salisbury at question remained—how to best spend Ignatian spirituality. Participants describe msalisbury1@luc.edu or John Fontana at those days. feeling newly prepared for “doing” fontanjj3@gmail.com. @ Ignatian Legacy Fellows is a new versus “being.” It inspires the next program that aims to help people find push to utilize one’s God-given talents those answers. The first cohorts have and energies for good. Father Michael Patrick Kennedy, is a major gift come together six times over the course Garanzini, SJ, says, “It’s been a privilege officer for the Midwest Jesuits of a calendar year to explore the meaning for me to accompany the Ignatian Fellows based in Chicago. He is a native of of retirement and the opportunities that on their journey—a true pilgrimage with Kankakee, Illinois, and a graduate of Villanova University and the lie ahead. The program involves peer friends and like-minded sojourners. University of San Francisco. meetings, traveling to apostolates to We’ve become a supportive community Pa g e 6 | Jesuits | A pu b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t Je s u i ts | Spri ng 2 0 2 1
RECONCILIATION Descendants of Jesuit Slaveholding and Jesuits of the United States Announce Historic Partnership I n a landmark undertaking in the pursuit of racial healing and justice, Descendants of ancestors enslaved men, women and children were sold by the Jesuit owners and sold by the Jesuits, together with of Georgetown the Jesuits of the United States, have University to announced a partnership to create the plantation owners Descendants Truth & Reconciliation in Louisiana. “Our Descendants Earl Williams Sr., Cheryllyn Branche, Foundation. shameful history of and Joseph Stewart, pictured with Father General The Foundation is a first-of-its-kind Jesuit slaveholding Arturo Sosa, SJ, and Fr. Timothy Kesicki, SJ partnership among the Descendants of in the United States the enslaved and the descendants of the has been taken off enslavers. JPMorgan Chase is a supporter the dusty shelf, and it can never be put years of a powerful dialogue process. of this historic partnership. back,” said Fr. Tim Kesicki, SJ, president In April of 2017, Fr. Kesicki publicly “For more than 400 years, our of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and apologized for Jesuit slaveholding at a country has denied the persistent the United States and former provincial Liturgy of Memory, Contrition and Hope human destruction caused by slavery of the Chicago-Detroit Province Jesuits. at Georgetown University. In May of and the conscious and unconscious “Racism will endure in America if we 2017, about a year after learning of their racism that divides our communities continue to turn our heads away from the connection to this tragic and sinful past, and nation,” said Joseph Stewart, acting truth of the past and how it affects us all Descendant leaders petitioned Fr. Arturo president of the Descendants Truth & today. The lasting effects of slavery call Sosa, SJ, Superior General of the Society Reconciliation Foundation and one each of us to do the work of truth and of Jesus, to respond. of more than 1,000 Descendants of reconciliation. Without this joining of Father Sosa responded to the Isaac Hawkins, an enslaved man who, hearts and hands in true unity, the cycle Descendants’ letter, writing, “Jesuit along with many other enslaved men, of hatred and inequality in America will slaveholding in the United States, and women, and children, was sold to save never end.” in particular the sale of 272 enslaved Georgetown University from financial Citizens Bank of New Orleans, later persons from the Jesuits in southern ruin. “After 182 years, Descendants and acquired by JPMorgan Chase, used the Maryland to purchasers in Louisiana, Jesuits have come together in the spirit of 272 enslaved humans as collateral. The was both a sin and a betrayal because truth, racial healing, and reconciliation, Foundation has set up a trust for which uniquely positioning the Descendants JPMorgan Chase will serve as a co- the Society robbed your ancestors Truth & Reconciliation Foundation to set trustee and provide planning and advice of their human dignity.” Father Sosa an example and lead America through as well as other services. “The institution called the US provincials to dialogue dismantling the remnants of slavery and of slavery and systemic racism are tragic with the Descendants. In the summer of mitigating the presence of racism. Our parts of America’s history, and we have a 2018, soon after receiving the Superior partnership will pursue and support the responsibility to drive sustainable change General’s letter, Mr. Stewart called Fr. creation of a new and abiding reality of for the people and communities who have Kesicki, and the two met in person at Mr. love and justice for all members of our been impacted by this bitter legacy,” said Stewart’s home in Michigan. one humanity.” Brian Lamb, the global head of diversity A life-long partnership and a shared The Foundation is rooted in the and inclusion at JPMorgan Chase. commitment to transformation and events of 1838, when 272 enslaved This announcement comes after several conversion emerged from this process. @ More information, including a video message from Midwest Jesuits Provincial V. Rev. Brian Paulson, is available at JesuitsMidwest.org/Descendants Jesuits | 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 | Spring 2021 | Page 7
SOCIAL & INTERNATIONAL Garrett Gundlach, SJ, participates in a fundraising walk for the Lebanon branch of Filipino Church initiative Couples for Christ (CFC) with the community from his local Jesuit parish’s English-speaking Sunday Mass. Close Encounters Lessons of the Global Kind from Abroad “The world is our home.” By Amy Korpi — Fr. Jerónimo Nadal, SJ (1507-1580) A ccording to José Casanova of Georgetown University’s Berkley Center for Religion, Peace and World respectful human conversation, Tantur’s setting is ideal for promoting a greater understanding of the richness of the this land and its peoples. Father Paul explains, “Here I am surrounded by sounds and spiritual Affairs, the Jesuits were the first religious, ethnic, and cultural traditions of practices of three Abrahamic traditions organized group in history to think and act globally. As such, he writes that the Society “embodied what [Pope Francis] so frequently evokes as a ‘culture of encounter’ and a ‘culture of dialogue,’ within and between peoples as the only way to peace in our globalized world.” Midwest Jesuits, continuing that tradition in other countries today, have some insights. BUILDING BRIDGES IN ISRAEL In his years as a Jesuit, Fr. John Paul, SJ, has engaged in various ministries that broadened his cultural horizons. He is currently missioned as rector at the Tantur El Agustino in Lima, Peru Ecumenical Institute on the southern edge of East Jerusalem. Founded to build bridges through ecumenical dialogue and Pa g e 8 | Jesuits | A pu b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t Je s u i ts | Spri ng 2 0 2 1
SOCIAL & INTERNATIONAL that keep me conscious of being in the presence of the Holy One, and of how my mission is to provide an ‘oasis of encounter’ with holy sites, traditions, and people for participants in our programs offering personal renewal, continuing education, and scholarly writing or research.” It enhances his own spiritual life as well. “Five times a day,” says Fr. Paul, “I become aware of the Islamic call to prayer, broadcast from minaret towers, and I am reminded of my own call to prayer. Each Friday evening and Saturday, I become aware of how Father Paul Mueller, SJ, currently serves as vice Jerusalem becomes ‘silent’ in observance director of the Vatican Observatory in Castel Gandolfo, of keeping the Sabbath and am invited to Italy. find ways to ‘keep Shabbat.’ On Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings, I Photo: CNS hear church bells from a nearby Greek to me, and to appreciate those differences first encountered locally. Certain Orthodox monastery as well as Greek as gifts,” he says. “In addition, interacting histories and needs where you are in the Catholic, Roman Catholic, and Orthodox regularly with Vatican personnel, even moment require both a deep knowledge churches in Bethlehem and adjoining occasionally with Pope Francis, I have of tradition and nimble adaptation to cities, and I am reminded of a risen Lord come to appreciate more deeply that circumstances. The Church in England is inviting me to encounter him in the the Church is Christ’s mystical body, hungry for God and open to discovering breaking of the bread of fellowship.” recapitulating his incarnation. At all Christ’s call anew, but the religious CULTURAL SIMILARITIES AND levels, the Church is a very human sensibilities of Catholicism are radically DIFFERENCES IN ITALY institution.” different from those in the United States. To be Catholic here is to be in the Father Kevin Flannery, SJ, is a consultor HUNGRY FOR GOD IN ENGLAND minority, with a history of persecution for the Holy See’s Congregation for the While studying abroad, Fr. Joseph and martyrdom looming large.” As a Doctrine of the Faith and a professor Simmons, SJ, has been reminded of nod to this history, Fr. Simmons has at the Pontifical Gregorian University, how “the universal Church is always celebrated Mass at the chapel of the which hosts students from over 100 family who protected St. Edmund nations each year. “This means that my Campion, SJ, before his capture and students invariably have cultural and execution. educational backgrounds that are unlike my own, forcing me to be attentive to our INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR differences,” he says. “Yet their spiritual JOURNEYS IN SPAIN AND PERU struggles are common to all who are Working on a doctorate at Comillas trying to live lives for others and for God. Pontifical University in Madrid, Fr. Cultural differences do enter in, but the Christopher Staab, SJ, is studying St. spiritual issues are, in the end, the same Ignatius of Loyola’s Spiritual Diary— for all.” written by the Jesuits’ founder about As Jesuit community superior and vice his intimate experiences with God and director at the Vatican Observatory, Fr. God’s responses to his questions about Paul Mueller, SJ, has found that living the Society’s structure. “This was at a with Jesuits from ten different countries time when he was no longer traveling; can present many opportunities for cross- his journey was interior,” says Fr. Staab. cultural misunderstandings. “Daily life “As I write my thesis, my journey is also itself is teaching me to be patient with interior and, though it is not a spiritual Fr. Joseph Simmons, SJ behaviors and practices that seem strange diary, I hope my thesis can share the same Jesuits | 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 | Spring 2021 | Page 9
SOCIAL & INTERNATIONAL terrain as Ignatius’s text, as one seeking to mission of the Church and the Jesuits is make explicit the God who communicates to build a more just society where all can ITE, INFLAMMATE OMNIA deeply with the human person.” live with the dignity of God’s children. Roughly translated as “go forth and set There is certainly an exterior aspect to The experience of the faith of the poor, the world on fire,” this phrase has often Fr. Staab’s current journey as well. He and accompanying Jesuits in formation lives in a formation house, accompanying and men and women who dedicate their been attributed to St. Ignatius of Loyola 12 young Jesuits from Malaysia, India, lives that others might have greater life, upon sending his friend and fellow Jesuit Europe, and the Americas, and says, allow me to glimpse the Lord who lives Francis Xavier to the missions in India. “We are learning not just to pass through in our midst.” It’s also been said that St. Ignatius Madrid on our way Father James often ended his letters with the phrase. to another mission, M. O’Leary, SJ, Modern scholars tell us this isn’t but to accompany Despite diverse backgrounds also served in quite the case—but no matter. One of the men and women and interests, we have found Peru for many of this city, who are common ground, especially years—largely in a the last surviving Jesuits to have known so deeply affected in the desire to find God in popular education Ignatius credited the founder of the by the pandemic. all things. We live a unity movement called Society of Jesus with the saying and We are pilgrims, that transcends language and Fe y Alegría (faith claimed that when St. Ignatius missioned like Ignatius, and culture. and joy)—until he a Jesuit somewhere to cultivate the Lord’s it is in this place was missioned to vineyard, he told them, “Go, ignite and that our interior serve as chaplain, and exterior journey to God with others campus minister, and theology professor inflame all things.” continues to emerge.” at Saint Louis University’s Madrid As such, it’s become common tradition On March 15, 2020, after celebrating campus. Reflecting on these experiences, to accept that, regardless of the specific Mass in a poor area of Lima called “El he notes, “In Peru, it’s more common to words Ignatius might have used, he Agustino,” Fr. Kevin Flaherty, SJ, told talk about your faith. In Spain, people wanted—as Jim Manney writes— parishioners that liturgies would be will certainly attend a procession, but “everyone to be set afire with passion and suspended due to the pandemic. Since fewer are going to church. Those who zeal for the Kingdom of God.” then, the area has been hit especially do practice are very committed to hard; many families have lost loved ones social justice. No matter where I am, Saint Ignatius went so far as to encode and been pushed deeper into poverty. though, I find that when we trust God, this in the Constitutions: “The aim and “Yet, while the people are economically no matter what happens, we are held and end of this Society is, by traveling through poor, they are rich in spirit,” says Fr. loved. It helps me to be less fearful and the various parts of the world…to preach, Flaherty. “Their faith and resilience preoccupied—and more generous and hear confessions, and use all the other remind me why I am in Peru, and how the empathetic.” means it can with the grace of God to help souls.” But such preaching most definitely did not prevent engaging in dialogue and adapting to the cultures where the Jesuits visited. For example, Alessandro Valignano, SJ (1539–1606), known as the architect of the missions in Asia, recognized that cross- cultural engagement and exchange was necessary for the Jesuits to be successful. They needed to fit into the local culture, and not the other way around, by learning native languages and customs and treating Fr. O’Leary at SLU-Madrid’s 2020 Mass of the Holy Spirit new converts with respect. Pa g e 1 0 | Jesuits | A p u b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t J e s u i ts | Spri ng 2 0 2 1
SOCIAL & INTERNATIONAL CONSOLATION AMIDST DESOLATION IN LEBANON In addition to his daily Arabic studies, once a week Garrett Gundlach, SJ, heads to Beirut’s Karantina neighborhood— which was heavily damaged by the city’s port explosion in August—where he makes giant pots of soup for workers rebuilding. While doing so, he is “trying to find [his] feet in a new language, a new culture, and the unfolding reality of political instability, economic crisis, coronavirus, and explosion healing,” he says. “Even our community’s daily Mass is new to me, with the language and the Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Ontario, Canada flow of the Byzantine (Greek Melkite) or Maronite rites; what I knew primarily as a place of restful prayer has become a place to learn.” priority of working with youth. It is have found common ground, especially “So, my daily Examens their energy that will help us to be more in the desire to find God in all things. We and our house’s monthly audacious in our hopes.” live a unity that transcends language and faith sharing have become “I have also found consolation in my culture.” the graced places where ministry with JRS,” he adds. “Many I can prayerfully unpack UNEXPECTED INVIGORATION IN of my colleagues are refugees, and all this newness, CANADA they have taught me the importance recalibrating for the of accompaniment in ministry, that “Prior to the pandemic, the world came next day or month,” ministry is dynamic, that those being to Guelph, and people of other continents Gundlach says. “I haven’t served always teach something to those introduced me to different emphases of always done this so well, who are serving, and that the ability to praying,” says Fr. Paul Panaretos, SJ, pushing myself to learn give something is itself a gift from God. of the ministry at Ignatius Jesuit Centre faster and do more. But Finally, my life in community here has in Ontario. Yet, even if COVID-19 has the simplicity, strength, made me marvel at this vocation. Despite prompted physical isolation, it has not and playful joy of our diverse backgrounds and interests, we stopped the ministry nor the opportunity neighbors always remind me of a slower, better for profound insights. road—a marathon, not a “Electronic platforms help us stay By Jacqui Langeland sprint; together, not alone; connected with people seeking ongoing small steps, not miracle solutions.” direction, and online retreats continually Ryan Birjoo, SJ, is also missioned to demonstrate St. Ignatius’s conviction Beirut, studying Arabic and working that God personally communicates with with the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS). individuals seeking God,” explains “Arriving shortly after the blast, I Fr. Panaretos. “Further, within our witnessed the resilience of people community, our prayer, faith sharing, and confronting great challenges with real daily care for one another have deepened solidarity,” he recalls. “Consolation our union and compassion. Learning amidst desolation is a recurring theme— to detect God’s presence during the such as when I was clearing rubble pandemic has been a source of spiritual with some university students, and they aching and unexpected invigoration.” @ expressed their desires for a better future. Their excitement was tangible, and I Father John Paul, SJ, serves as rector at the Tantur Ecumenical Institute in Jerusalem. understood why we have the apostolic Jesuits | 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 | Spri n g 2021 | Page 11
LEADERSHIP Father Karl Kiser, SJ, served as president of University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy for 14 years prior to being named pastor of Gesu Parish in University Heights, Ohio. Passing the Torch to Set the World on Fire By Grace Rice Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, to side of the province, on the Pine Ridge for 14 years. There, Fr. Kiser developed Indian Reservation in South Dakota, his own leadership style, one that is succeed V. Rev. Brian Jesuits Fr. Joe Daoust and Br. Mike deeply rooted in his faith: “I like inspiring Paulson, SJ, as provincial Baranek, both originally from the former people around a vision, and I like finding of the Midwest Jesuits Chicago-Detroit Province, make their new ways of serving and thinking.” own meaningful contributions in ministry. Coming from a pastoral role, Fr. Kiser is As Fr. Paulson comes to the end of T prepared to incorporate the Gospel into hough he had been a Jesuit in the his term as provincial, his leadership his vision. “It’s very important to me that Chicago area for nearly 40 years and will span an even larger area, as he is to first and foremost, we’re centered around is a native of the suburb of Waukegan, succeed Midwest Jesuit Fr. Tim Kesicki the Gospel, and we’re aiming to spread Illinois, for the V. Rev. Brian Paulson, as president of the Jesuit Conference of and preach the Gospel,” he says. SJ, serving as provincial of the Midwest Canada and the United States. The end Father Kiser’s goals for the province Jesuits was uncharted territory. The of Fr. Paulson’s time as provincial is stem from this, as he notes that the Midwest Province had only just been bittersweet, as he is excited to take on primary job of the provincial is to care for created in 2017 by combining the new responsibilities: “I will certainly the Jesuits in the province through cura former Wisconsin and Chicago-Detroit miss the work and people here, but as personalis—care of the whole person. Provinces. As its first provincial, Fr. provincial, I have taken great consolation Regarding specific goals, Fr. Kiser says, Paulson was tasked with not only leading in the times when I have been able to be “I think that Jesuits, Ignatian spirituality, but also with unifying the men and part of successful international, inter- and the Jesuit vocation have particularly works of the former provinces, which are provincial cooperation, and I know that deep and powerful gifts, gifts that are spread across 12 states. Reflecting on this will continue on the Conference-president deep and powerful in a way that the world mission, Fr. Paulson says, “I am pleased level. I look forward to getting involved needs today.” As we go forward, Fr. Kiser with the sense of mutual trust and support in conversations about sharing men and says, “My number one goal would be to Jesuits in the Midwest have across resources.” ask, ‘How do we leverage our talents and the territory regardless of the original Father Paulson is guided by his faith province in which they entered.” our institutions to meet the needs of a and Ignatian principles in his leadership, Father Paulson notes that Jesuits Church that’s struggling today?’” @ as he says, “Ignatian governance is from the former Wisconsin Province, supposed to be rooted in the manifestation comprising the north and west sides of of conscience.” the new province, are now making a Incoming provincial Fr. Karl Kiser, SJ, Grace Rice is a journalist based in Chicago and a graduate of big, positive difference in cities on the joins the province office from Cleveland, Boston College, where she was eastern side of the province; he provides where he has served as pastor of Gesu editor-in-chief of The Rock. examples such as Jesuit Frs. Nathan Parish. Prior to his service as a pastor, Currently, she works as assistant director of communications for the Wendt, Paul Lickteig, and Tom Manahan, Fr. Kiser was president at University of Midwest Jesuits. all working in Cincinnati. On the other Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy Pa g e 1 2 | Jesuits | A p u b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t J e s u i ts | Spri ng 2 0 2 1
LIVING THE MAGIS Imanol Ruiz finds the Basilica of St. Josaphat in Milwaukee to be a source of inspiration. Ruiz says, “The Basilica was built by immigrants, so to me it is an example of what immigrants can accomplish and the limitless possibilities of what we can do with our lives. It also serves as a depiction of the beauty and magnitude, which is the Catholic Church.” Evangelizing Through Drama Photo: Jeff Zmania By Kristine Mackey F rom the mid-16th century, through the suppression of the Society of Jesus in 1773 and beyond, Jesuit colleges in disguised as a farmer. In a dramatic moment Llorente, who was a father figure to Castro for years, pleads with Fitzpatrick and Mary Ristow-Dey, with teaching him critical life skills. Ristow- Dey, herself a practicing Lutheran, helped Europe led the way in the arts, turning him to abandon the revolution. Castro, him to understand and tap into his faith out famous playwrights including Joseph offended and enraged, sends him away, more deeply. His transition to college has Simeon, Pierre Corneille, and Molière. leaving Llorente to pray for Castro’s soul. been supported by the All in Milwaukee In 2021, theater and the inspiration it The relationship continues for decades, program and by his mentors there, Bill provides for students in Jesuit schools despite Castro’s expulsion of the Society and Sandy Haack. The Haacks say, continue to thrive. Imanol Ruiz’s story of Jesus from Cuba in 1961. Later in life, “Imanol is a self-starter, mature beyond is a testament to the enduring legacy of in many situations, Llorente, who has his years. We are hoping to help him these Jesuit contributions. since emigrated to Miami, humanizes achieve his potential.” Ruiz, the son of a hardworking, faith- Castro even as the world demonizes him. Currently a theater student at the filled immigrant family and a ’20 graduate This conflict, imagined and animated by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, of Cristo Rey Jesuit High Milwaukee, Ruiz, becomes the heart and the soul of Ruiz is developing that potential. He grew up in the city’s historic Mitchell the play. hopes to widen his artistic repertoire by Street neighborhood. His parents, Ruiz did not always see himself as writing screenplays, working on films, originally from Santiago Maravatío in an artist nor as a strong self-advocate. and building his technical skills. Ruiz Guanajuato, Mexico, immigrated to the During his senior year at Cristo says that he is “elated by the thriving U.S. in pursuit of a better life. He describes Rey, he worked on a project for his arts scene in Milwaukee,” and sees the life they gave him in Milwaukee and Advanced Placement research class the area as an up-and-coming hub for his education at St. Josaphat and Cristo titled Evangelizing Through Media. Ruiz aspiring artists like himself. Perhaps, Rey as “the greatest gifts.” interviewed Fr. James Martin, SJ, for the like the European Jesuit colleges of Encouraged by his theater teacher essay and realized through their pivotal past centuries which yielded notable at Cristo Rey, Catie O’Donnell, Ruiz exchange that he could build his own productions, methods, and people, the submitted an original work to the opportunities. His parents had, of course, drama programs of the Jesuit institutions Milwaukee Chamber Theater’s Young provided the platform, and Cristo Rey of the Midwest will continue to inspire. Playwright’s competition and won. Ruiz provided the skills and community. As Imanol Ruiz believes so! @ was especially enthusiastic about the Fr. Bill Johnson, SJ, says, “Imanol sacar subject of his play, Armando Llorente, SJ, el jugo—he took advantage of every a Spanish-born Cuban Jesuit who taught opportunity of his Jesuit education— and mentored a teenage Fidel Castro at the heart, mind, and soul.” Kristine Mackey is VP for Jesuit’s El Colegio de Belen in Havana. While Ruiz enthusiastically credits advancement and communications Ruiz exercises artistic license but for every teacher and every mentor he has for the USA Midwest Province Jesuits. one micro-story. Castro, the revolutionary, encountered on this journey, he credits his is in hiding and is visited by Llorente, BMO Harris work-study mentors, Tricia Jesuits | 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 | Spri n g 2021 | Page 13
A HEART ON FIRE Trevor Rainwater, SJ, (right) with his brother and fellow Jesuit, Conan Rainwater Inset: Trevor and Conan as kids with their sister, Ellecia Different Yet United By Trevor Rainwater, SJ I grew up in North Dakota and attended Creighton University, where I first encountered the Jesuits. I was delighted often overlooked by society. It is very consoling to return home and hear how members of my community adapt to serve we unite after a day in the “vineyard of the Lord” to celebrate the Passion, death, and Resurrection of Christ once again. to meet this group of men who shared those in need despite the current situation. In the midst of this academic program, a deep love of Christ but, at the same One adjustment occurred for me in May God willing, I will be ordained to the time, were involved in a variety of 2020, when I was ordained a transitional priesthood in 2021 to further share in professions—teaching, medicine, law, deacon. The most obvious change in the Eucharistic celebration and unite all retreat work, and parish life. This variety the liturgy was when I turned around to people, regardless of their background, of work attracted me to the Society of see an empty church (due to COVID-19 to the heavenly banquet of the Lord’s Jesus, as one could be a priest and a restrictions). However, despite the Supper. Despite living in an apostolic medical doctor, a brother working in physical emptiness, I was comforted by community where members work at the astronomy, or a Jesuit scholastic working the “online Church” of family and friends Jesuit Conference of Canada and the in a refugee center. My desire to enter who supported me through numerous United States, minister at a high school, the Society was confirmed during a silent emails, texts, and photos as they watched or take part in graduate studies, we all retreat and has deepened through my time the ceremony. come together to share in the gift of the in formation. Another adjustment grew out of my Through my ten years of formation, love for liturgy. After completing my first Eucharist which Jesus left to us. @ Jesuits have continued to engage the round of theology studies in Toronto, I world in a variety of ministries, with moved back to the United States to pursue men serving on reservations in South a graduate degree in liturgical studies Dakota, high school teachers navigating from a non-Jesuit university. Through Trevor Rainwater, SJ, is a Jesuit online classes, pastors returning to the liturgy, a Jesuit’s title (high school scholastic currently in theology full parish life, and men working in president, teacher, student, medical studies. He will be ordained this outreach programs providing food, doctor) is dropped, as each person is June. clothes, or identification to those who are equal at the Lord’s table. At the Eucharist Pa g e 1 4 | Jesuits | A p u b l i c a ti on of the Mi d w es t J e s u i ts | Spri ng 2 0 2 1
EDUCATION From the Jesuit Earliest Days of Education ESTABLISHED IN 1551 BY ST. IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA, PONTIFICAL The Pontifical Gregorian University hosts 2,750 students from 120 countries. GREGORIAN UNIVERSITY TURNS 470 YEARS OLD THIS YEAR By Michael Austin T he storied tradition of Jesuit education had to begin somewhere, and this year one of its earliest schools— received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees there between 1971 and 1975. Cardinal Cupich recalls the first-class midst of integrating with the Pontifical Biblical Institute, founded in 1909 by Pope Pius X, and the Pontifical Oriental in Rome—turns 470 years old. professors who led him through the rigors Institute, founded in 1917 by Pope Established as the Collegio Romano by of Jesuit schooling and the profound Benedict XV. The goal, as Fr. Grummer St. Ignatius of Loyola in 1551, the school experience he had living in Rome. “It sees it, is to consolidate the institutions’ of grammar, humanity, and Christian introduced me to the wider world of the financial resources and personnel, doctrine was expanded later that century Church and society,” he says. promote collaboration, and facilitate by Pope Gregory XIII, who would Father Vincent Strand, SJ, also interdisciplinary activity and networking. become the university’s namesake in cherished his student years at the Greg “I am a great believer in the law 1873 by order of Pope Pius IX. despite some of the challenges of living of unintended consequences, which Today, the Pontifical Gregorian in the Eternal City. means that the future is never what we University, colloquially known as “the “Studying theology with students plan,” says Fr. Grummer, who is also Greg,” has roughly 2,750 students from and professors from all over the world the director of the Centro Ignaziano di 120 countries. As an ecclesiastical was rewarding, and doing so in a city Spiritualità, a constitutive part of the institution, about 70 percent of its as historically significant as Rome, near Greg’s Institute of Spirituality. “I think students are priests or seminarians. The the tombs of the apostles and ancient we hope there will be more interaction remainder of the student body consists of martyrs, was inspiring and formative,” among our various faculties and students laypeople and women religious. says Fr. Strand, who earned a Bachelor so that we can better serve local churches “Working at the Gregorian is a fantastic of Sacred Theology in 2016 and is now and the universal Church.” opportunity for which I will always be studying for a PhD at the University of As a student, Fr. Strand took every grateful,” says Fr. James Grummer, SJ, Notre Dame. “The mission of the Greg opportunity he could to learn about and superior of the university’s 70 Jesuits, is quintessentially Jesuit, combining experience the history of St. Ignatius who hail from 25 countries. “The people education and intellectual depth with a and the early Jesuits in Rome. “Living in I live with, work with, and serve are global vision for the needs of the Church the very building that houses the rooms fantastic people with deeply felt desires universal.” of St. Ignatius was an incomparable to serve the Church. It is a joy to get up Mary McAleese, the president of experience,” he says. “I am a better Jesuit every day and be part of what happens Ireland from 1997 to 2011, is an alumna, today because of my years at the Greg.” @ here.” and Italian poet and librettist Andrea Among the school’s alumni are Salvadori, who served the Medici family dozens of saints and blesseds, including in the 1600s, is an alumnus as well. At St. Aloysius Gonzaga, SJ, and St. the school’s establishment, St. Ignatius Michael Austin is a freelance Maximilian Kolbe; numerous popes, envisioned a “university of the nations, writer based in Chicago, a national including Pope Pius XII and Pope John for the defense and propagation of the James Beard Award finalist for Paul I; and approximately 1,000 living faith, and for the training of wise and magazine feature writing, and a former nationally syndicated bishops, including the Archdiocese of qualified leaders of the Church and of columnist for the Chicago Tribune. Chicago’s Cardinal Blase Cupich, who society.” The Greg is currently in the Jesuits | 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 | Spri n g 2021 | Page 15
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