foundation in the Philippines - The Marianists

Alive
MARIANIST CULTURE, FAITH AND COMMUNITY
VOL. 6, NO. 1 ■ SPRING 2009
A passion for service: The Marianist volunteers in Malawi

Brother Stephen Glodek
A MESSAGE FROM THE P ROVINCIAL
My Dear Friends,
Greetings and blessings to you and your families!
There is an old saying that if you really want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.
Lately, the Marianists in the Province of the United States have been doing a great deal of
strategic planning for our ministries in the U.S. Like many families, we are cautiously planning
the use of our diminished resources in the face of the global economic crisis. In the
middle of this planning, our good God has sent us to care for a new Marianist foundation
in the Philippines.
Responding to a call from the international leadership of our Society, the U.S.
Province has assumed responsibility for the care and growth of the work of the
Marianists in Davao City in the Philippines (see story on page 20). The questions we
had — How does this fit into our strategic planning and How do we financially
support this new venture — were our questions, not God’s. It was as if God were saying:
“There are homeless children of mine to care for and train. There are young men
interested in devoting their lives to the mission of Mary. Go there and take care of them.”
The smile of God seemed to say: “Rely on me and not on your own planning skills!”
One of the great gifts that our holy founder Blessed Chaminade instilled into his
“little Society,” as he called us, was common-sense reliance on faith in the providence
of God. We were the little Society because the project, the great mission, was not ours,
but Mary’s. Any success was to be attributed to humble cooperation in that mission: to bring
Christ to the world in each age and to all people. The ultimate success or failure of any venture
was to be attributed to the providence of God.
This is a very difficult lesson for us as Americans who have elevated planning and security
to an art form. We often forget what Jesus told us in the Gospel of John (16:33) and what
Blessed Chaminade believed so deeply: “I have said this to you, that in me you may have
peace. In the world you have tribulation; be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” It is
with that profound trust that our Province stretches to include the new mission in the Philippines,
and in so many ways, to live our Marianist life and mission.
Thank you once again for your prayers and support. May God continue to bless you and
your families.
Affectionately yours,
Stephen Glodek, SM
Provincial

Brother Stephen Glodek, S.M.
Provincial
Rev. James Fitz, S.M.
Assistant Provincial
Diane Guerra
National Communications Director
Jan D. Dixon
Editor
Joan Suda
Communications Manager
Ann Mueller
Administrative Assistant
Contributing writers
Shelly Reese
Amy George Rush
Photography
Ron Alvey, page 22
Jan Dixon, front cover, pages 2 - 5, 7
Anthony Fucci, page 10, top right
Joshua Goocey, page 6
Diane Guerra, page 13
Marianist Brother Al Kuntemeier,
pages 12 - 15, back cover
Derrek Miyahara, inside front cover,
pages 11, 17
Photo courtesy Ray McCracken,
page 8
Photos courtesy Marianist community,
Philippines, pages 20, 21
Skip Peterson, page 19
Lisa Quinones, page 9
Graphic design
Jean Lopez, Lopez Needleman
Graphic Design, Inc.
Front cover
Marianist Volunteer Program participant
Sarah Wdowiak reviews a lesson
with Atusaye Mwalughali, a student
from Chaminade Secondary School
in Malawi. See story, page 2.
Back cover
Students from Nolan Catholic High
School’s ecology program enjoy a
water taxi ride while on an ecology
immersion trip in Costa Rica. See
story, page 12.
ALIVE
Vol. 6, No.1 – Spring 2009
ALIVE is published three times a
year (Spring, Summer, Fall/Winter)
by the Marianists, Province of the
United States. Comments welcomed.
Direct to the editor: Jan D. Dixon,
Marianist Province of the United
States, 4425 West Pine Blvd., St. Louis,
MO 63108 or jdixon@sm-usa.org.
Changes to the mailing list, e-mail
amueller@sm-usa.org.
POSTMASTER: Send corrections to
ALIVE, The Marianists, Province of
the United States, 4425 West Pine
Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108-2301, USA
The Society of Mary (Marianists)
is an international Roman Catholic
religious congregation of priests and
brothers, with almost 600 serving in
the Province of the United States,
which includes Eastern Africa, India,
Ireland, Mexico and the Philippines.
In the United States, the Marianists
sponsor three universities: University
of Dayton in Ohio, St. Mary's Univer -
sity in San Antonio and Chaminade
University of Honolulu, as well as 18
high schools, eight parishes and
several retreat centers. The order has
had a presence in the United States
since 1849, when the Marianists
came to Cincinnati. Blessed William
Joseph Chaminade founded the
Society of Mary in France in 1817.
www.marianist.com
Alive
VOL. 6, NO. 1 ■ SPRING 2009
Life as a Marianist Volunteer ............................................................................2
Six young adults describe the fun and challenges of being a Marianist volunteer
in Malawi.
Lest We Forget ..................................................................................................... 8
A Marianist living history project captures the life stories of 200 brothers
and priests.
Discovering the Wonder of Creation ............................................................ 12
Students of Nolan Catholic High School’s ecology program learn what it means
to be stewards of the earth.
Writing as Revelation ...................................................................................... 16
Three Marianists talk about writing as a means to access God’s grace and the
unfolding mystery of their lives.
A Venture in Faith Takes Root ....................................................................... 20
The Marianist Family grows a new foundation in the Philippines.
Slice of Life ........................................................................................................ 22
News from the Province
page 16

Kat Brumm, MVP
participant and computer
instructor, with Abraham
Ngwira, a student at
Chaminade Secondary
School, Malawi
2 Call 1.800.348.4732
Life as a Marianist
Volunteer
Six young adults describe the fun and challenges of
being a Marianist volunteer in Malawi.
KATHERINE (KAT) BRUMM,
a native of Strawberry Point,
a small town in northeastern
Iowa, was enjoying her second
year at Wartburg College in nearby
Waverly when her parents arrived on
campus one day to deliver sobering news.
“I was diagnosed with malignant
melanoma,” says the 27-year-old who is
B Y J AN D. DIXON
participating in her first year in the
Marianist Volunteer Program (MVP) in
Karonga, Malawi, a country in southeastern
Africa. Battling a life-threatening
illness at age 20 taught her a lot, she says.
“You realize that life is short and you’re
not invincible. I had to ask myself, ‘What
have I done that has mattered? Have I
done anything for anyone else?’ In that

moment, I felt so selfish. I told myself
that if I got through this cancer thing,
I wanted to do something for others.”
Brumm’s desire to move beyond herself,
to contribute her gifts so that others might
live a better life, is a call that many young
adults across the United States are taking
seriously. For thousands of Americans,
“Africa has become the place to make a
difference,” says a report on volunteerism
published last year in USA Today.
For the Marianists, who operate Chami -
nade Secondary School in Malawi, as well
as a technical training program called
MIRACLE (Marianist Institute of Rural
Artisans for Christian Life Educa tion),
this wellspring of interest in Africa has
helped spawn a cadre of new volunteers
who, along with the Marianist brothers,
are providing a fresh wave of energy and
talent to support these ministries.
For the six U.S. volunteers serving in
Malawi — Kat Brumm, Molly Heineman,
Matt Meyers, Emily Richardson, Andy
Taube and Sarah Wdowiak — life in this
remote, impoverished part of the world
has been exhilarating and exhausting.
They describe jaw-dropping moments of
sheer beauty on their travels along the
shores of Lake Malawi, just miles from
the Marianist operations in Karonga.
Then there are the everyday frustrations
of sweltering heat, lack of water and
electrical outages.
Malawi MVP participants:
front, Kat Brumm and
Andy Taube; back, Molly
Heineman, Matt Meyers,
Emily Richardson and
Sarah Wdowiak
www.marianist.com/supportus 3

Molly Heineman, MVP
participant, with women
from the Women’s
Empowerment Program,
a micro-lending project
sponsored by MIRACLE
4 Call 1.800.348.4732
“It’s fun and challenging in ways you
can’t anticipate,” says Matt Meyers. “There
are a lot of adventures in discovering what
it means to be an MVP in Malawi.”
Most say they are handling the adjustments
and feel comfortable in their
African surroundings. “Sometimes I’m
surprised how normal I feel,” says Brumm.
“Then there are days when I wake up
and think: ‘Holy cow, how did I end up
in Africa?’”
THE ASSIGNMENTS
The MVP program, started in 2004, has
three volunteers serving in ministries in
St. Louis this year, as well as the six volunteers
in Malawi. The international
volunteers are committed to two years
of service. Richardson and Wdowiak are
on their second year; the other four will
complete their assignments in August 2010.
Four of the volunteers teach at Cham -
inade Secondary School and help with
extracurricular activities or administrative
duties. Heineman works exclusively for
MIRACLE as a social worker, while Taube
splits his teaching time between Chami -
nade and courses at MIRACLE.
Although the assignments have some
structure, “you can’t come here with a
fixed notion of your work or life,” cautions
Meyers, noting that the assignments are
evolving to fit the needs of the volunteers
and the needs of the community. Meyers,
for example, is working on a community
garden with the intention of organizing
a crop production program to generate
food for the school. Though the garden
wasn’t part of his job description, Meyers
sees a need for nutritious food for the
students and a way to offset the cost of
the meals — a win-win project.
Sarah Wdowiak, who has been in
Malawi for more than 18 months, says
that being a self-starter is one of the most
important qualities a person must possess
as an MVP. “You can’t wait for someone to
hand you something to do. You figure out
what is needed and jump in and do it.”
She admits that it takes creativity and
courage even when “you may not feel
comfortable and don’t know exactly
what you are doing,” she says. “We’re
always in a learning mode here.”
CULTURAL SENSITIVITY
Though most Malawians speak English,
making the adjustment easier for American
volunteers, it’s the cultural traditions and
expectations that can throw even a seasoned
volunteer off-guard. Gender inequality
and poor treatment of women are among
the more disturbing realities. Still, the
volunteers see a ray of hope.
“I asked my students to write an
argument for or against the statement:
‘A woman’s place is in the home,’” says
Emily Richardson, who teaches English
and science classes, and now helps with
the sports program at the high school —
a big step for an all-boys’ school that
has never had a woman involved in its
athletic program.
Matt Meyers, MVP par -
ticipant, with Malawian
Frank Kasanda who
has helped Meyers
with gardening projects

Marianist brothers in
Malawi: Paul Kageche,
Bernard (Beams)
Lugutu Ombima,
Philip Okasai, John Woo
and Hanson Sitali
“Of the 80 students, about 75 said a
woman’s place is in the home to clean,
cook and provide for her family. I gave
them a similar assignment later in the
year. I asked them to write about the
statement: ‘To educate a woman is to
educate a nation.’ About 75 students
argued for this idea. It was interesting to
see their opinions change.” Richardson
believes this shift in attitude has something
to do with the presence of women
volunteers in the classroom and seeing
women on the playing fields with them.
Although the full impact of the volunteers
is hard to assess, each MVP participant
acknowledges that it takes a special blend
of patience, openness and flexibility to
work well in a culturally diverse setting.
“We need to be respectful of the culture,”
says Richardson. “This is not our
culture. We are guests here and must be
considerate of them.”
LIFE IN COMMUNITY
Living far from home — away from pizza,
ice cream and air conditioning — can be
challenging. But by far the biggest challenge
for the volunteers is learning to live
together in an intentional community.
“I expected challenges,” says Andy
Taube, noting that he thought the heat
or lack of air conditioning might be difficult.
“But all the challenges I have
encountered are inside me. The biggest
one is learning to interact with my community
and the students I work with.”
Molly Heineman says the first few
months of living in a community, even
with friends she knew from college,
were difficult, mostly because they
spent so much time together. Now
she is broadening her support network
to include the Marianist brothers and
friends from MIRACLE.
“I had a bout of homesickness, and it
was great to share these feelings with my
community,” says Heineman.
Most volunteers say that loneliness
has not been a factor, primarily because
they have access to the Internet or the
ability to pick up a wireless phone and
call home. The technology gives them a
sense of normalcy and helps them when
they feel isolated. “Last night I used a
webcam (a digital camera that enables
computer users to see one another via
the Internet) for the first time,” says
Richardson. “I saw my former college
roommate and she gave me a tour of her
apartment and took me to a window
and showed me snow. It was amazing.”
But when family and friends seem
too far away, the volunteers can talk
with the Marianist brothers who live
next door. “I’m finding the brothers are
an extended family for me and I’m turning
to them when I need to,” says Heineman.
Marianist Brother Bernard (Beams)
Lugutu Ombima, director of the Marianist
community, is happy to see a growing
bond between the volunteer community
and the Marianist brothers. “We are
starting to host dinners and plan outings
together,” he says, noting that most of
the brothers are new to Malawi. In addition
to Brother Beams, the Marianists
serving in Karonga include Brothers Paul
Andy Taube, MVP parti -
cipant and life skills
teacher at MIRACLE,
with students William
Mogha, Vernon Silweya
and Samson Mwakalukwa
www.marianist.com/supportus 5

Nothing Prepared Me for Malawi
Marianist volunteers discover what it means to serve in a country ravaged by HIV/AIDS and poverty.
On its surface, Malawi has the look and feel of a “postcard
perfect” paradise. The beauty of its rugged mountains,
lush palm trees and the many sandy beaches that frame Lake
Malawi — one of the largest inland lakes in Africa — attract
tourists from around the world.
On closer inspection, however, Malawi can best be described
as a country in peril. According to World Bank Development
statistics, Malawi is now the
Uganda
second poorest country in the
Kenya
world (second only to Sierra
Rwanda
Leone). More than two-thirds
Rep. of Congo
Burundi
of the population live on less
Tanzania than 33 cents a day and
according to the United
Nations, 60 percent of Malawi -
ans eat only one meal a day.
Mozambique
Zambia
Poverty is a breeding
ground for disease, and disease
is a breeding ground for
Zimbabwe
poverty — a vicious cycle
that has health experts
Botswana
Malawi
throughout Malawi deeply
concerned. Since 1992 the
Swaziland
average life expectancy has
South Africa
fallen from 51 to 38 years,
Lesotho
largely due to the HIV/AIDS
pandemic that is still sweeping
across southern Africa.
In Karonga district, where the Marianists operate
Chaminade Secondary School and a technical training program
for AIDS orphans called MIRACLE, the AIDS infection rate
continues to climb and the consequences of the disease are
hurting many families and children. “We’re losing a whole
generation of men and women,” says Marianist Brother Paul
Kageche, director of MIRACLE.
Healthcare specialists say that there are more than 12 million
orphans as a result of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa,
with more than 1 million in Malawi. According to local health
authorities, there are 20,000 AIDS orphans in the Karonga district
which has a population of about 350,000 people.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu, in a documentary released last
year about AIDS in Malawi, reminds everyone that “… the
statistics are not statistics. They are people. The brother of,
the sister of, the son of, the daughter of someone. I invite you
to put the face of someone you love on those figures,” he says.
For the Marianist community and the volunteers working in
Karonga, these statistics have real names, faces and families —
people they have come to know and love.
In spite of the tragedies and discouraging news, they
6 Call 1.800.348.4732
remain hopeful
about their work If you are interested in
and the future of
making a donation to the
the people of
Malawi. Volunteer Marianist ministries in
Sarah Wdowiak Malawi, you may make a
admits she didn’t
realize what she financial contribution by
was getting herself using the envelope in this
into by coming to
magazine or by contacting
Malawi. “I had
done some back- the Marianist Mission
ground reading, but toll-free at 1.800.348.4732 or
nothing prepared
www.marianistmission.org/
me for this,” she
says. Nor could she donateafrica. See the inside
have known that back cover for more information.
she would fall in
love with the people
and the place.
Yet living with the unexpected is a way of life for those working
for the Marianist ministries in Malawi. “Things rarely happen the
way you planned, so you find yourself adjusting almost daily to
whatever is required,” says Wdowiak. “But that’s why we are
here, to be available to do whatever they ask of us. We’re here
to help.”

Emily Richardson, MVP
participant and English
and science teacher,
reviews a lesson with
Chimwemwe Mwale, a
student at Chaminade
Secondary School.
Kageche, Philip Okasai, Hanson Sitali and
John Woo.
“We owe a lot to the brothers who have
gone before us,” says Brother Beams.
“Chaminade is here because of Brother
George Dury and others who started the
school in the 1960s. There are many who
have kept the school and ministries alive.
“Everyone is very happy and
encouraged by having the volunteers
here to share in this work,” he adds.
TAKEN BY SURPRISE
Malawi is often described as the “warm
heart of Africa” because of the warmth
and friendliness of the people. It’s not
just a slogan, say the Marianist volunteers.
“This is a very hospitable culture,
very generous. They always welcome
you into their homes,” says Meyers.
“I love the people,” says Wdowiak,
saying that she has traveled to Tanzania
and further north, but that there is something
special about Malawians. Their generosity,
especially their willingness to share
what little they have, has touched her
deeply. “I remember visiting a student in
his home earlier this year. I thought it
would be good for me to bring them
something, so I brought butter, sugar
and some buns for their family. I left
with a bag of rice, 100 bananas, a catfish,
20 oranges and a live chicken. I couldn’t
believe how generous they were.
“I’ve been surprised by a lot of things
here,” she adds. “I didn’t realize I would
like it this much — that it would be this
good.”
THE GIFT OF CONFIDENCE
Most MVP participants say their passion
for service comes from a curiosity about
other cultures and the
desire to give something If you are interested in
back. “I’ve been blessed in
learning more about the
many ways,” says Taube.
“I felt the need to give Marianist Volunteer
some of what I have been Program, please contact
given. As a Christian, it
Dan Richter, coordinator
seems like the right thing
to do. It’s a call to give of MVP, at 314.533.1207
and share with others.” or drichter@sm-usa.org.
Yet most of the volunteers
believe they are get- Applications and additing
back far more than tional program informa-
they expected. One of the
tion are available at
surprising things that both
Wdowiak and Richardson www.marianist.com/mvp.
have received is the gift of
self-confidence.
“Before I came here, I wouldn’t think
of traveling by myself, but now it feels
natural to me,” says Wdowiak. “I’ve
become independent in a good way.
I think I’ve grown up a lot.”
Richardson says she is more sure of
herself and her abilities in part because
she has been given so much responsibility,
“far more than I believe I would as a
24-year-old in the U.S.”
Maybe more important, says Richardson,
is that this small African nation has found
a special place in her heart. “I now have
friends all over Malawi, and I know that
even in 10 years I will come back to visit.”
Without hesitation she adds: “I love
Malawi.” ■
www.marianist.com/supportus 7

Ray McCracken, associate
director for programs
at NACMS and project
coordinator of “Lest
We Forget”
8 Call 1.800.348.4732
Lest We Forget
A Marianist living history project captures
the life stories of 200 brothers and priests.
WHEN M ARIANIST
Brother Al Koch entered the
Society of Mary in 1950, life as a
religious brother seemed fairly predictable
— or so he thought. But as the reforms
of Vatican II swept through the church
in the mid-1960s, religious life — along
with other aspects of the church —
changed dramatically.
“The way I was brought up and the
way I was expected to live as a religious
changed,” says Brother Al. “It was difficult
to reverse some of my thoughts, but
knowing that the Spirit was working in
me I said, ‘Let’s go along. Let’s keep it
up.’ You can’t just abandon ship.”
B Y S HELLY R EESE
When many of Brother Al’s close
friends left the Society, he struggled to
understand their decision. How could
they give up their vocation? Why had
they joined in the first place? How could
they change their minds so quickly?
Brother Al began to question his own
vocation. But after much thought and
prayer he came to understand that, “I
won’t be happier any other place,” he says.
Brother Al’s story, along with reflections
from 200 Marianist brothers and priests,
are captured in a living history project
called “Lest We Forget” — an effort to
preserve the life stories of Marianists
born before 1939.
“Lest We Forget” is an audiotaped
archive of the personal reflections of a
generation of men whose lives as Marianists
spanned a time of unprecedented
change, explains Ray McCracken, associate
director for programs at the North
American Center for Marianist Studies
and a lay Marianist who launched the
project more than four years ago.
“Nearly every institution on earth has
changed since this group of men entered
religious life,” says McCracken. Vietnam.
Vatican II. Civil rights. Quantum physics.
The Cold War. A global economy. Though
some were reluctant to tell their stories to
each other because of the humility learned
in religious life, says McCracken, “these
men have a perspective that would be
lost. We couldn’t let that happen.”

A GUIDE FOR THE FUTURE
In 2005, with the help of the late Marianist
Brother Walter Oberster, McCracken began
interviewing Marianist brothers and
priests. Using a heuristic inquiry approach
to interviewing, he records conversations
with Marianist “co-researchers.” Unlike
traditional qualitative research,
McCracken’s heuristic approach recognizes
that each person’s story is sacred
and presents an opportunity for personal
growth and reflection. Accordingly,
he prays for each participant before and
after each interview and takes time to
consider how the interview can foster
his own growth.
Collectively, the stories are more than
a window into the past, says Carol Ramey,
director of NACMS; they’re a guide for
the future. Understanding what inspired
these men, the qualities of the teachers
and brothers who shaped their formation,
the challenges they overcame
and the forces that sustained them
throughout religious life, enables
the Society to better address future
challenges, says Ramey.
Marianist Brother Charles Johnson,
director of vocations, has gained
valuable insights from the “Lest We
Forget” project as he crafts strategies
for recruiting vocation candidates
today. “Times and circumstances are different,
so the ways of doing things also
need to be different,” he says. Today his
challenge is to empower the brothers to
share their passion for the charism with
others openly and often, especially now
that there are fewer religious in Marianist
high schools to carry that message.
McCracken, who hopes to interview 40
more religious by the end of 2009, says
the project has been both humbling and
heartrending. “It is a privilege to hear
these men’s life stories. I believe others
will appreciate the care we have taken to
preserve this piece of Marianist history.”
LEST WE FORGET
Despite their varied backgrounds and
experiences, many of the participants in
the “Lest We Forget” project voiced similar
insights on vocational call, religious life
during the 20th century, living in commu-
nity and spirituality. Highlights from a
handful of these conversations offer a
glimpse into their world and provide a
basis for understanding their collective
experience.
Although the brothers and priests
who shared their stories as part of the
project were promised confidentiality,
the following individuals allowed their
names to be used.
VOCATIONAL CALL:
BROTHER TOM TRAGER
Early exposure to the Society of
Mary was extremely important
and directly influenced the decisions
of these men to enter religious life
as Marianists, according to McCracken.
“When . . . [they] were students they felt Marianist Brother Tom Trager
www.marianist.com/supportus 9

Marianist Brother Jim
Fitzgibbons
10 Call 1.800.348.4732
a strong sense of belonging in the schools
they attended and wanted to join the
community,” McCracken says. “They
were inspired by the mission of the
brothers and identified with these men.”
Marianist Brother Tom Trager’s first
encounter with the Marianists typifies
that experience. Brother Tom traces the
origins of his call to a happy accident:
He took the wrong bus.
As an eighth grader shuttling around
New York taking entrance exams for various
Catholic high schools, Brother Tom
mistakenly boarded the bus for Trinity, a
Marianist high school.
When he arrived, he found a wonderful
atmosphere. “I could see it, the connection
of the brothers with the kids, and I said,
‘If I make this school, I want to go here.’
“I met many Marianists who were very
significant and … [the experience] captured
the Marianist family spirit for me
… By the end of my high school journey,
I had decided to go to the novitiate.”
COMMUNITY LIFE:
BROTHER JIM FITZGIBBONS
Participants in the project identified
community life as the single most
important factor that has sustained
them in religious life, according
to McCracken. They say the community
experience provides a
sense of family, empathy, connection
and self-worth.
Marianist Brother Jim
Fitzgibbons says that
community life, especially
the discipline of
prayer on a regular
basis, has been the
most important
aspect of religious
life for him. “Even
with the struggles
in community,
there is always
camaraderie,” he
says, including the
spiritual support that
he needed.
Because prayer was
done in community, says
Brother Jim, “I did it and saw the need
for it.”
Today he is more at ease with prayer
and has found it one of the most enjoyable
aspects of his religious vocation. “I
love the quiet of prayer. I love the intimacy
of it. I love the expectation that I
bring to prayer,” he says, noting that he
tries to blend prayer and life together,
not separating the two, but letting them
unfold together. “I try to take on the eyes
of a prayerful person.”
RELIGIOUS LIFE IN THE 20TH CENTURY:
BROTHER AL KOCH
men in this project
entered religious life in a
“The
time when the essence of
religious perfection meant separation
from the world,” says McCracken.
“Vatican Council II called religious life
to renew itself. The Marianists were
instructed to turn to the Gospels, return
to the original intent of their founders
and look at the signs of the times to
determine their mission.”
Marianist Brother Al Koch

For many in religious life, the change
in direction brought about by Vatican II
was exciting and freeing. For others, it
was confusing and disorienting.
Though many men chose to
leave the Society, Brother Al
Koch continued to wrestle with
their decisions while affirming
his commitment to remain a
Marianist. As time went on,
however, Brother Al found that
their separate paths were part of
God’s plan.
“Many of the men I know
who left are doing wonderful work” as
principals and teachers, he says. Seeing
his former brothers find their true calling
as active laity helped settle his heart.
“I thought, ‘well now this is good,
because they’re going to a place where
they’re using the gifts that God gave
them.’”
SPIRITUALITY:
FATHER JIM BARTLETT
Spirituality and community are
closely related in the Society of
Mary. Spiritual activities practiced
in common enhance a unity of spirit and
strengthen the individual and his connection
to the community, participants
told McCracken.
Many said their spirituality helps
them weather difficult times, persevere
in their ministries and continue growing
in faith.
One spiritual practice that has been
particularly helpful to Marianist Father Jim
Bartlett came to him in the form of mentoring
and spiritual direction. He fondly
remembers Marianist Father Quentin
Hakenewerth for his “gentle way of
affirming me, and on the other hand
challenging me,” says Father Jim. “It’s
important to get a person who seeks
spiritual direction to be honest and
transparent,” he says, noting that this
deepens and grows over time. Father
Quentin served as a role model as
Father Jim developed his own abilities
to serve as a spiritual director for others.
Father Jim saw the work of spiritual
directors and mentoring slowly evolve
since the early 1970s. “Things have
changed a lot,” he says noting that today
many lay people are taking courses to
become spiritual directors as evident in
a class he taught last year on the Internet
called the “Ministry of Spiritual Direction.”
At the heart of spiritual mentoring is
the ability to hold another accountable
and grow in faith. “This is very important,”
says Father Jim. “After all, when the
going gets tough, it’s your faith that
holds you up.” ■
For more information about the
“Lest We Forget” project, contact
Ray McCracken at 216.634.4116 or
Ray.McCracken@notes.udayton.edu.
Shelly Reese is a freelance writer from
Cincinnati.
Marianist Father Jim
Bartlett
www.marianist.com/supportus 11

Discovering the
Wonder of Creation
12 Call 1.800.348.4732
Students of Nolan Catholic High School’s ecology program
learn what it means to be stewards of the earth.
B Y S HELLY R EESE

Left: Nolan Catholic
High School students
explore a Costa Rican
rainforest on an immersion
trip in 2007; front,
Erin Smith, Angela
Ostendorf, Elizabeth
Blackwell, Andrea Meza,
and Catherine Coleman
S
CIENCE IS A DIRTY BUSINESS.
At least it is for ecology students
at Nolan Catholic High School,
whose field trips have taught them that
the best way to learn about the environment
is to get immersed in it: to roll up
their sleeves, get their hands dirty and
become enamored with the wonder of it.
Since 1974, Nolan Catholic, a Marianist
high school in Fort Worth, has offered a
senior level ecology program, the oldest
continuous high-school ecology program
in the country. Classroom work is augmented
with field trips that enable students to
study a variety of ecosystems. Studying
the rain forest of Costa Rica, a prairie
system at Fort Worth’s Tandy Hills Park
or the mountainous desert of Big Bend
National Park in southwest Texas allows
students to connect with creation in a
new way.
The goal of the program is to instill in
students a sense of environmental stewardship
and an awareness of “what we’ve done
to the earth and what we can do to save
it,” says Joseph Kuban, Ph.D. These goals
also reflect the Marianist commitment to
justice, peace and the integrity of creation.
Kuban, the program’s founder, retired
last year, nearly two years after he was
diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou
Gehrig’s disease. “If you don’t spend
time in nature, you don’t know what’s
being done to it,” he says, noting that the
value of the program is awareness of
what has been done to the earth and
how we might live differently to restore
the environment.
AHEAD OF ITS TIME
While the idea of a high school ecology
program may not seem revolutionary
today, it was incomprehensible 30 years
ago when high school science classes
often were confined to classrooms and
low-tech labs.
“No one was talking about global
warming back then,” says John Styrsky,
a professor of biology at Lynchburg
University who graduated from Nolan
Catholic in 1988.
While his experience at Nolan Catholic
helped Styrsky learn about field research,
sampling techniques and writing scientific
papers, he says the real benefit of the
Joe Kuban and
Ellen Browning
www.marianist.com/supportus 13

Joe Kuban in 2006 led a
group of Nolan Catholic
students on an ecology
field trip to Big Bend
National Park.
14 Call 1.800.348.4732
class was the research trips.
“Those immersion experiences got
the students interested in the material,”
says Styrsky, who makes it a point to get
his students out in the field. “I try to get
them dirty, sweaty, hot and mosquitobitten,”
he says, “because that’s what gets
them into the subject.”
A PASSION FOR LEARNING
The Nolan Catholic program owes its
creation to Kuban’s vision and energy.
Kuban, who graduated from Nolan
Catholic in 1968, began offering seniors
a university-level ecology course in 1974.
He later added a field biology class.
“Some people have called me a
visionary but it’s just pure chance and
direction from God,” he says. “I stumbled
into it.”
It took several years for the program
to find its equilibrium, he says. He had
to find the right mix of classroom and
field work, and had to decide which
locations were best suited for immersion
trips. His own passion for Big Bend
National Park, where he studied the
century plant as part of his doctoral
work, made the sprawling desert in
Texas an ideal venue.
While Kuban had to work to develop
the program, he had no trouble attracting
students or winning the support of parents
and faculty members, thanks to his
energy and passion for the topic.
“I was inspired from the beginning,”
says Marianist Brother Al Kuntemeier,
a Nolan Catholic teacher, counselor and
coach who was quickly enlisted as a bus
driver for the field trips. “I caught Joe’s
fire. He’s so enthusiastic about ecology
and God’s creation. His enthusiasm is
contagious. I wanted to be part of what
he was doing and so did the kids.”
Kuban garnered a reputation even
among students who never took his
class. Students respected his knowledge
and took to his quirky irreverence.
“We had an entire class dedicated to
parasites,” recalls Nolan Catholic grad
Alyssa Bulnes, a freshman at Texas A&M,
“and Dr. Kuban talked about every parasite
he’d ever had. He’s apparently been
quite the host. Going to his class felt like
story time. You didn’t fall asleep in that
class. It was so much fun.”
AN ECOLOGICAL ADVENTURE
If Kuban kept the class’s energy level
high, it was out of necessity. From the
beginning the class was physically and
intellectually taxing.
Brother Al recalls watching Kuban
and his students year after year at Port
Aransas on the Gulf Coast of Texas.
They used fishing nets to gather and
measure marine life in the tide pools.
Though labor-intensive, the trip yielded
a body of data stretching over three
decades that has enabled classes to see
how the ecosystem has changed as a
result of hurricanes on the Texas coast.
The ecology students learn how humans
affect the planet as well. A copse of trees
at Tandy Park may seem picturesque to
visitors to the nature preserve; however,
Nolan Catholic students recognize the
trees as a sign that the prairie is disappearing.
In the era before towns and
farms, lightning-strike fires would have
burned the trees and enabled the prairie
to regenerate, but human development
has altered that natural cycle.
Service is an important dimension of
the ecology program. During a recent

Costa Rica immersion trip, students
studied the rain forest, but they also
cleaned nearby beaches, delivered donations
of school supplies and soccer balls
to nearby schools in San Francisco and
Tortuguero and assessed the schools’ needs.
Over the years, Nolan Catholic’s support
has financed the addition of a kindergarten
and a library at the Tortuguero
school and funded improvements such
as the installation of flush toilets.
Giving students opportunity for service
— an important aspect of a Marianist
education — while exposing them to
environmental challenges intensifies the
experience and adds a great deal of academic
rigor, says Ellen Browning, who
took over the class from Kuban in the fall.
Kuban met Browning at the University
of Texas, Arlington, where he taught
graduate classes. Almost immediately
he pegged her as his replacement for the
Nolan Catholic program. Browning
envisioned that she would one day put
her degree to use doing field research
for the National Park Service or the
Department of Fish and Wildlife. But
when Kuban approached her about the
Nolan Catholic job, “there was no way
I was going to say no,” she says.
Browning shadowed Kuban in the
classroom before taking over the course
in September 2008. But Kuban is still a
major presence for her and the students.
He was waiting at the airport in his
wheelchair when they arrived home
from Costa Rica in November and visits
the classroom every few weeks.
“I love the job,” Browning says, “but
it’s bittersweet to be here.”
THE WONDER OF CREATION
While the program trains students to do
advanced scientific field research, it also
teaches them to see the world through
new eyes.
“We live our lives so separate from
nature that we sometimes forget the
wonder of it,” says Browning, whose
words echo Kuban’s. “If you can get
kids out into nature, they get it. They
begin to understand the fragility of the
earth and see it is a gift from God.
“The students also see it is our responsi-
bility to take care of the earth. They come
to understand the interdependence of
people and nature. They see the interconnectivity
of the air and the water
and the energy we use,” she adds.
Alyssa Bulnes, who took the course
last year, says it gave her a new appreciation
for the planet. “I feel more a part
of it.
“Dr. Kuban said that when we graduated
he wasn’t worried about whether we’d
become ecologists. He said, ‘I want you
to be an ecologist in everything you do.
Have an ecological state of mind. Share the
message with your friends and family.
Be informed and active,’” says Bulnes.
That message, which Kuban shared
with students, parents and colleagues
for 30 years, has taken root, says Fred
Schattman, a classmate of Kuban’s who
has sent four children to Nolan Catholic.
Schattman says Kuban’s impact has been
so profound and far-reaching that when
he and fellow classmate Van Chandler
proposed the idea for scholarships in
Kuban’s honor, they surpassed their
goal in a matter of months. The more
they approached people, Schattman says,
the more they heard about the impact
Kuban has had on people.
“We learned about three or four people
who had dedicated their doctoral theses
to Joe,” he says.
Last year Nolan Catholic awarded the
first of two annual Joe Kuban scholarships
for excellence in science and music. Music
is Kuban’s other passion. The Lost Chizo
Band, which he fronts and which includes
his brothers and several friends, plays
songs that celebrate the beauty of Big
Bend Country.
“Joe’s been a brilliant light for these
kids,“ Schattman says. “Of all our classmates
— and we have some brilliant
inventors, doctors, lawyers, commodity
brokers and people with national reputations
— no one will have a greater effect on
the success of our country and our society
than Joe Kuban. The lessons he taught are
going to be re-taught for generations.” ■
Shelly Reese is a freelance writer from
Cincinnati.
www.marianist.com/supportus 15

Writing as Revelation
Three Marianists talk about writing as a means to access God’s grace
and the unfolding mystery of their lives.
16 Call 1.800.348.4732
B Y J AN D. DIXON
“When you write, you lay out a line of words. The line of words
is a miner’s pick, a woodcarver’s gouge, a surgeon’s probe.
You wield it, and it digs a path you follow. Soon you’ll find yourself
deep in new territory. Is it a dead end, or have you located the real subject?
You will know tomorrow, or this time next year.”
— from The Writing Life by Annie Dillard
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO LAY BARE A SOUL.
Dance, painting, prayer, meaningful conversation — all are pathways that can
lead inward to new territory, to places of clarity, to new starting points, to the
grace of God.
Writing is another avenue that will take
you to the frontier of yourself, says poet and
lecturer David Whyte. But it takes courage.
“Will you pay attention? Will you look? Will
you hear? Will you see, no matter now difficult
it is to do that?” he asks.
For some Marianists, writing — in particular
journaling or poetry — is a means to
access the inner life, a process that they say
leads to a greater understanding of the mystery
of their relationship with God.
Three writers of the Province — Marianist Brothers Stephen Glodek, Jack
Somerville and Brian Zampier — have been writing and journaling since their early
teens or 20s and offer insights about the writing process and what they have learned
from the discipline of putting words on paper.
Each takes a slightly different approach. Brother Stephen prefers poetry as a way to
“capture experience and make sense of things,” he says. Brother Jack keeps a journal.
“Writing is about having a conversation with a deeper part of myself,” he says.
Brother Brian uses a sketchbook method, combining drawing and words to unleash
his intuitive energy and “let the spirit take over.”
Though each uses a different method, they all agree that one of the benefits of
writing is a better understanding of themselves, especially the big events in their
lives, and the ability to see God’s grace in these moments.

Marianist Brother
Stephen Glodek says
that poetry is a way
for him to “capture an
experience and make
sense of things.”
THE URGE TO WRITE
Brother Stephen Glodek began experimenting
with poetry and creative writing as
a high school student under the tutelage
of a gifted English teacher. His early foray
into poetry blossomed into a lifelong
passion that he now feels compelled to
do. That’s because much of his writing
springs from observations about his external
world where phrases and imagery
trigger his creative impulse. “I keep a
list of images, things that strike me or
ways of saying things,” he says. “I love
sitting in airports and listening to snatches
of conversations and the different way
people express themselves. I think people
are absolutely fascinating.”
Ever the watchful observer of people’s
behavior, as well as his own internal
landscape, Brother Stephen’s poetry flows
from an urgency to shape sudden flashes
of insight into words. “It’s an impulse or
a way of talking that has to ‘break forth,’”
he explains. “There is always a well of
inner stimulus — something I am moved
by — that gets the process going. It’s my
way of trying to understand the universe.”
Brother Jack Somerville became an
avid writer by way of journal keeping.
It started when he began writing morning
entries in his journal as an extension of
his prayer time some 30 years ago. It is
an activity that has matured along the
way and provides him perspective on
life’s ups and downs as well as a tool for
personal growth.
“I use journaling as a way to get my
feelings on paper,” he says. It is a way to
look at a range of feelings, thoughts and
ideas and expose them “like a surgeon
opening an old wound to see what’s
there.” Once it’s out there for examination,
says Brother Jack, he has time to
ask himself why he felt and responded
the way he did. “It helps me figure out
what I am going to say or how to handle
a situation more effectively.”
THE GREAT GRIEF CRY
Brother Brian Zampier began journaling in
1974 when a college art professor encouraged
him to keep a sketchbook. Today he
keeps three sketchbooks going at once,
all for different purposes, but with the
overall intention of using his marks on
paper, often accompanied by words, as
evidence that he’s alive and present.
“I use sketchbook journaling as a gratefulness
exercise and I thank God everyday
that I am here,” he says.
Sketchbook journaling has evolved for
him from classical illustration to abstract
mandalas – ritualistic designs that are
often used in eastern religions to symbolize
the universe. For Brother Brian,
however, this form of sketching is a way
for him to explore ideas and feelings that
can’t easily be expressed in words. The
abstract forms invite him to stay present
to the moment in a meditative way.
Journaling also has helped Brother Brian
express his anger and deep sorrow while
serving as an avenue for healing and grief
work. He found it particularly helpful
when his mother was dying. “I still go
back and look at those journals and think
about how much I have changed — or
ways I haven’t changed,” he says.
Brother Stephen also found solace in
writing as he witnessed his mother slip
into dementia before her death nearly nine
www.marianist.com/supportus 17

Marianist Brother Brian
Zampier; below, a page
from one of his journals;
right, a self-portrait from
one of his journals
18 Call 1.800.348.4732
years ago. In his poem about her, called
“The Passing,” Brother Stephen grapples
with the reality of her confusion:
“ . . . I think it was
the old dining room table,
two years before,
that first sensed
she was leaving.
Befuddled by the fuss
of dinner being made
without her –
exiled to the dining room
to set the table –
she rearranged the silverware
four times,
forgetting on what side
she and they belonged.
The old table knew,
when such familiar touch fumbled,
and bent double to rearrange
itself to her confusion.”
—- excerpted from “The Passing”
by Brother Stephen Glodek
GOD IN THE SHADOWS
While writing helps people cope with big
events in life — death, loss of relationships,
a health crisis — it also opens the door to
God’s presence.
For Brother Jack, it has meant a deliberate
change in the subject of his journals.
“I now use my journaling to ponder the
daily Scripture readings and as a way to
get in touch with how God is working in
my life,” he says. He credits Marianist
Father Steve Tutas for encouraging him
to move in this direction after a retreat in
Malawi a few years ago. “It was a major
turning point for me,” he
says. “God does speak to
us through Scripture.
Mostly I know it when
something in a passage
jumps out at me. Or I feel
compelled to write about
a word or several verses
from the readings.”
Brother Stephen sees
God’s spirit at work in his
writing, “but I can’t

Marianist Brother Jack
Somerville
describe to you how it works. I do believe
that God helps me put the pieces of my
life together through my writing. I am
able to see patterns and how some things
fit together that I couldn’t see at an earlier
time,” he says.
As a poet, Brother Stephen also sees
God hiding in the shadows of metaphor
and symbolism. “I find in metaphor and
symbolism little baby steps of my own
mystery. I approach the mystery of God
through the mystery of myself. So language
is a way of entering into the mystery
of God.”
SOUL WORK
Brother Brian believes that journaling and
poetry are sacred expressions because they
are manifestations of a creative link with
God. “Most artists talk about being a
channel of the work — of the need to
surrender to the essence that flows
through them,” he says.
He believes this process is dynamic and
ever-changing because as human beings
we are different in every moment. He is
surprised that he hasn’t become bored
with his journaling activities. “I still have
enthusiasm for it even after all these years,”
he says. “I don’t understand it, but I see
my journaling growing as I am growing.”
Brother Stephen also views writing as
Resources and Reading
The following is a list of books and resources that Brothers
Stephen, Jack and Brian say have helped them with
their writing, often providing a catalyst to get their creative
juices flowing.
1.Sailing Alone Around the Room, Billy Collins
2.Blessing the Boats, Lucille Clifton
3.The Writing Life, Annie Dillard
4.Wild Mind: Living the Writer’s Life, Natalie Goldberg
5.On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, Stephen King
6.The Creative Artist, Nita Leland
7.The New Creative Artist, Nita Leland
8.Exploring Solitude and Freedom, Thomas Merton
soulful work that continues to amaze him.
“Writing often surprises me, especially
in times of turmoil or change. I can do all
kinds of mental gymnastics in my head,
but when I sit down to write, something
pops into my writing that makes this thing
I’ve been mulling over much clearer.”
All three agree that this uncharted
territory of the soul defies explanation.
What’s exciting about it, says Brother Brian,
is that “everyone’s experience is unique.
I encourage everyone who is considering
writing or sketchbook journaling to feel
good about it. Stay in the present moment
and enjoy it.” ■
www.marianist.com/supportus 19

20 Call 1.800.348.4732
A Venture in Faith
Takes Root
The Marianist Family grows a new foundation
in the Philippines.
WHEN M ARIANIST B ROTHER R ICHARD J OYAL ARRIVED
in the Philippines in 2004, he arrived alone. His charge was to research possibilities
for a Marianist presence in the area. When he departed four years
later, he left behind a foundation: a ministry devoted to improving the lives of street
children and a novitiate dedicated to the formation of young men interested in
Marianist religious life. It was a busy four years.
On Chaminade Day, Jan. 22, 2009, the Marianist Province of the United States celebrated
the pioneering work of Brother Richard and the work of the brothers who remain
in the Philippines by officially assuming jurisdiction over the foundation. The foundation
had been governed by the General Administration of the Marianists in Rome.
In Marianist terminology, a foundation is a “start-up” of sorts, the classification
given to the smallest of religious groupings. Due to its small size and young age, it is
totally dependent upon other units (in this case, the Province of the United States) for
staffing and funding. Establishing foundations is not a new venture for the Marianists.
But many other things about the foundation in the Philippines are new — the location,
the people it serves and its structure.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
The foundation is located in Davao
City, on the Mindanao archipelago
of the Philippine Islands, which is
home to more than 96 million
people. The traditionally
agricultural area grew rapidly
during the economic
boom of the 1980s and
1990s. With an influx of
domestic and international
trade, the Philippines transformed
into a multicultural,
international community.
B Y A MY G EORGE R USH
The Marianist community
in the Philippines:
Brother Oscar Kerketta,
Father Pablo Rambaud
(Spain), Brothers Peter
Kiama, Hugh Bihl and
Raimond Toppo

“When we started our work here, Foreign
Direct Investment magazine named Davao
City the 10th-ranking ‘Asian City of the
Future,’” says Brother Richard.
Davao City is the third largest city in
the Philippines with a population of
approximately 1.5 million. It is considered
one of the largest cities in the world in
terms of land area, and the land is lush.
“It is surrounded by much beauty,” says
Brother Richard, “including the ocean,
the islands and the tropical forested hills
and mountains.”
WITH PARADISE, PROBLEMS
AND POSSIBILITIES
Despite its idyllic setting, modern-day
problems developed in Davao City. The
brothers who live and work there will tell
you about urban sprawl, marked disparity
between the haves and the have-nots,
poverty, lack of property ownership and
even vigilante justice. The educated youth
are leaving for better jobs abroad. These
problems feed additional issues, like drug
addiction, prostitution and the growing
culture of street children.
The brothers are quick to offer, however,
several positive attributes about
the people they serve. Approximately 84
percent of the population is Roman
Catholic. Over and over, the brothers
remark about the kindness of the people.
“They are charming, likeable, tolerant
and patient,” says Marianist Brother Hugh
Bihl. “It was easy for the Marianists to
settle in and be part of the scene and
part of the local Church. I appreciate
how we were welcomed and how our
gifts were allowed to blend in.”
ONE FOUNDATION, TWO LOCATIONS
The foundation, a singular entity, is
comprised of two residences separated
by a 40-minute drive. The novitiate is
located in Eden, halfway up Mount Apo,
the Philippines’ highest mountain. It is
home to two novices under the direction
of Marianist Father Pablo Rambaud
(Province of Madrid), who has served in
the Philippines since September 2004.
Marianist Brother Raimond Toppo
(District of India) serves as assistant
novicemaster, and Brother Hugh (Province
of the United States) provides additional
guidance, support and instruction.
Davao City is home to the foundation’s
second residence and its ministry, Balay
Pasilungan, or “House of Shelter,” a
rehabilitation program for street children
created by the Marist fathers in 1989.
Marianist Brother Peter Kiama (District
of Eastern Africa) directs the ministry,
and Marianist Brother Oscar Kerketta
(District of India) also resides there. With
the help of two aspirants, the brothers
minister to boys from seven to 14 years.
Balay Pasilungan serves
an average of 20 boys but
can accommodate 25.
According to Father
Pablo, “The boys come
from Davao City and from
far-flung rural areas. Their
lives at home have driven
them to the streets, so
they come to live in our
center and receive our
support.” Brother Peter
explains that Balay
Pasilungan “provides
basic needs for the boys
and equips them with the resources necessary
to restart life,” whether that life is
with their families of origin or within
long-term programs sponsored by local
agencies. “My greatest hope is that the
boys are reunited with their families and
have a positive engagement with life,”
says Brother Peter.
GROWING FAITH ABROAD
While the foundation may be divided
into two separate residences, Marianist
Brother Stephen Glodek, provincial,
envisions a common goal. “Our main
work in the Philippines is to bring
Marianist educational expertise to the
area’s poorest of the poor.”
In addition, the Marianists hope to
share, teach and grow the Marianist way
— beginning, in true Marianist fashion,
with the lay population. Explains
Brother Stephen, “The Filipino Catholic
Church is a very clerical church. So we
teach with our idea of community, centered
on equality of brothers and priests,
and our commitment to educate the laity.”
With the novitiate, the Marianists hope
to increase religious vocations in the area.
“The establishment of the Marianist life
in the Philippines,” says Father Pablo,
“implies that there will be more young
Filipinos joining us and becoming
Marianists in the way Father
Chaminade wanted.”
Brother Stephen anticipates that the
Marianist presence in the Philippines
will have an international reach as well.
“One of our greatest hopes is that our
mission here would be a link between
Boys from Balay Pasilungan, a shelter operated by
the Marianists in Davao City
the Filipino people and the Filipino
Catholic community in the United
States, a large, fast-growing population
in the American Catholic Church.”
SUSTAINING THE FOUNDATION
Although Brother Richard may have
landed in the Philippines alone in 2004,
his initial efforts required much collaboration
and support. Now the current
foundation requires the same. “Our work
in the Philippines is going to be a stretch
for the Province in terms of finance and
personnel,” says Brother Stephen. “We will
work with the Marianist Mission and use
other vehicles to help educate others about
our ministry in the Philippines and the
resources it requires. We needed a broad
base of help to create it, and we need a
broad base of help to sustain it.” ■
Amy George Rush is a freelance writer from
St. Louis.
www.marianist.com/supportus 21

U.S.: Bro. Halderman Professes Perpetual Vows
In October, Brother Brian Halderman, 31, of Fort Thomas, Ky.,
professed perpetual vows in the Society of Mary during a
Eucharist celebration at Saint Francis de Sales Parish in Cin cinnati.
Father Jim Fitz was the main celebrant. He was assisted by
Fathers George Cerniglia, Ed Jach
and Joe Tedesco. Provin cial Stephen
Glodek received the vows. Brother
Charles Johnson, national vocation
director, served as master of ceremonies.
Approx imately 250 Marianist
Family members, relatives and friends
attended the Mass and a reception following
at Purcell Marian High School.
Brother Brian professed first vows in
2004. In 2007, he earned a master’s
degree in social work from Washing -
22 Call 1.800.348.4732
Life
Slice of
NEWS FROM THE PROVINCE
Marianists Celebrate Professions in the United States, India and Mexico
Brother Brian receives a ring
symbolizing his commitment
to the Society of Mary from
Provincial Stephen Glodek.
ton University in St. Louis. He is a
member of the Casa Maria community
in San Antonio and serves in university
ministry at St. Mary’s University
in San Antonio.
India: Seven Profess Perpetual Vows
Seven men from the District of India professed perpetual vows
in the Society of Mary in January at a ceremony at Deepahalli
in Bangalore, India. Father Jim Fitz, assistant provincial, presided
and preached at the ceremony. Father Pragasam Thathappa,
newly reappointed district superior of India, and Brother Prakash
Kujur, newly appointed assistant district superior, received the
vows. Those professing vows were Jinu Muthukattil, Josephraj R,
Arul Raj, Peter Samad, Bhaskar Mandanu, Britto Murmu and
Saju Chittadiyil.
Brothers professing vows gather with the Marianist Sisters and others in India.
Mexico: Brother Castilla López Pro fesses Perpetual
Vows; Two Men Profess First Vows
Brother José Nicolás Castilla López
(Brother Nico) professed perpetual vows
in the Society of Mary in October at the
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe in
Coatzacoalcos, Mexico. Father Mario
González-Simancas, a chaplain at the
scholasticate in Puebla, presided at the
Eucharist and gave the homily. Brother
Ed Longbottom, district superior, and
Father Joe Lackner, assistant for developing
regions, witnessed the perpetual pro-
Brother Nico
fession. After the ceremony, a fiesta was
held in Brother Nico's hometown of Las Choapas.
continued on next page

A community photo of Marianist brothers in Hawai’i, circa the late 1880s or
early 1890s
Marianists Celebrate 125 Years in Hawai’i
Members of the Marianist Family gathered in Honolulu in
January to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Marianists
in Hawai’i. The activities included a memorial service for
deceased Mari an ists at the Diamond Head Cemetery and an
anniversary program followed by Mass at the Mamiya Theatre
on the Saint Louis School/Chaminade University of Honolulu
campus. Bishop Larry Silva was the celebrant. The program
included a showing of a new documentary about the Mari a nists
in Hawai’i. During Mass, new members of Marianist Lay Com munities
made their commitment to the Marianist Family. Members
of the MLCs and vowed Marianists renewed their commitments.
At the Hawai'i anniversary celebration in January, Provincial Stephen Glodek,
Bishop Larry Silva and Bro. Dennis Schmitz
IN REMEMBRANCE
Brother Robert Riemann, 81, died Dec. 4,
2008, in San Antonio. Brother Bob, a World
War II veteran, began his 60-year career as a
working brother as a printer and proofreader
for the Catholic Authors Press, a Marianistsponsored
publisher in St. Louis. In 1960,
Brother Bob was assigned to the maintenance
Chaminade University Pays Respects
to Dr. Sue Wesselkamper
Mary (Sue) Civille Wesselkamper, 66,
president of Chaminade University
of Honolulu, died of cancer at her home in
Honolulu on Jan. 3, 2009. Wesselkamper was
CUH’s longest-serving president and led the
university into an era of unprecedented academic
and financial success. “President Sue taught us to
embrace our mission and identity as a Marianist university,”
says Chaminade’s acting president, Brother Bernie Ploeger.
“She was deeply committed to this university and centered
our focus on always serving our students well. We will miss
her keenly.” In December, the university awarded Wesselkamper
a Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa at its 2008 Winter
Commencement Ceremony.
Professions — from page 22
In December, Mario Lenin
Espinoza Sánchez and Rigoberto
Martinez Hernandez professed
first vows in the Society of Mary
in Querétaro, Mexico. Father
Quentin Hakenewerth was the
main celebrant and homilist.
Brother Ed Longbottom, district
superior, received the vows.
Brother Charles Johnson, national
vocation director, represented the
Provincial Council at the ceremony.
Mario, 28, studied engineering
systems for two years in Managua
Visit www.marianist.com/obits to read full obituaries.
Marianist Brothers Mario Lenin
Espinoza Sánchez and Rigoberto
Martinez Hernandez
and philosophy for two years in Mexico City before discerning
a call to religious life. He has begun full-time studies at the
Marianist scholastic community in Puebla.
Rigoberto, 22, entered the prenovitiate program in Querétaro
in 2005. He made his novitiate in 2007 in Santiago, Chile. Rigoberto
also is a full-time student at the Marianist scholasticate community
in Puebla.
department at St. John Vianney High School in St. Louis. In
1966, he helped the Marianists open Maria Vista, a formation
facility in Missouri. For the next 30 years he worked in maintenance
and clerical positions at Maria Vista and at high schools
in St. Louis. Due to poor health, he retired to the Marianist
Residence in San Antonio in 2003.
www.marianist.com/supportus 23

IN REMEMBRANCE Visit www.marianist.com/obits to read full obituaries.
Father Charles Bergedick, 80, died Sept.
22, 2008, in Dayton, Ohio. Father Charles
earned a bachelor’s degree in education
from the University of Dayton in 1949 and
taught English and Latin at Chaminade High
School in Dayton. He was ordained a priest
eight years later. He worked in Marianist
ministries in New York and Ohio before accepting a 10-year
assignment, first to Nigeria, where he served as a missionary,
and later Malawi, where he assisted with the development of
a high school at Nkhata Bay and a technical training program
in Mzuzu. Father Charles returned to the U.S. in 1974. He spent
the next 30 years in parish ministry in Ohio and Michigan.
He is remembered as an affable man who enjoyed bringing
joy to people’s lives.
Brother Charles Boglitz, 91, died Oct. 12,
2008, in Cupertino, Calif. Brother Charles
received a bachelor’s degree in education in
1940 from the University of Dayton and
worked as a grade school teacher in Maryland,
New York and California. He served a fouryear
stint in ministry at St. John’s Home for
Boys in New York before assuming the role of a high school
teacher in California. His longest teaching assignment was at
Junipero Serra High School in Gardena, Calif., where he taught
Latin, English, religion and ran the school library for more
than 30 years. Brother Charles loved vocation work and
recruited several students to join the Marianists. Those who
followed him into religious life say he was a devoted mentor,
friend and wisdom figure.
Brother Elmer Dunsky, 90, died Sept. 20,
2008, in Cupertino, Calif. In 1938, Brother
Elmer earned a bachelor’s degree in education
and mathematics with a minor in science
from the University of Dayton. He began his
career teaching elementary school and worked
for four years as a teacher at St. John’s Home
for Boys in New York. Brother Elmer spent three years in
Puerto Rico as a teacher and returned to the U.S. to earn his
master’s degree in Spanish in 1943. Brother Elmer spent the
next three decades working as a teacher and administrator in
high schools in Ohio and California. In 1972, he earned a doctorate
in education and that same year moved to Hawai’i to
assume the chairmanship of the education department at
Chaminade University. His career at the university spanned
33 years where he was recognized for many educational
achievements at the school and for the state of Hawai’i.
24 Call 1.800.348.4732
Brother Fred Gelhard, 83, died Nov. 1, 2008,
in San Antonio. Brother Fred was a World War II
veteran and served the Province primarily as a
working brother. He began his career as a
Marianist teaching high school in Texas. Having
earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering
before entering the Society of Mary, however, his
skills were put to use supervising the construction of Roncalli
High School in Pueblo, Colo. In the late 1960s he worked in
maintenance positions in Missouri and Texas. Brother Fred
accepted an assignment in Africa in 1978 working for six years
on construction projects in Zambia, Kenya and Nigeria. After
returning from foreign missions, Brother Fred worked for the
remainder of his career in various maintenance roles in ministries
in St. Louis and San Antonio. Friends admired his skill
as a craftsman and engineer and were especially touched by
his work ethic and humility.
Brother Bernard (Ben) Laurinaitis, 82,
died Oct. 22, 2008, in Dayton, Ohio. Brother
Ben earned a bachelor’s degree in education
in 1947 from the University of Dayton, a
master’s degree in English in 1955 from the
University of Pittsburgh and a master’s
degree in library science in 1968 from St. John’s
University in New York. He served the Marianists for 30 years
as a high school teacher in Puerto Rico, Ohio, New York,
Pennsylvania and Australia. Starting in 1965, he began working
as a librarian in schools in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Australia.
In 1977 he was assigned as the archivist for the former Maria -
nist Province of Cincinnati. Later he worked at the Marianist
archives on the campus of the University of Dayton for 20 years
where his gifts for organizing and preserving history were
greatly appreciated.
Brother Paul Merland, 77, died Dec. 8, 2008,
in Dayton, Ohio. Brother Paul completed a
bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1955 and
a master’s degree in business administration
in 1977 from the University of Dayton. He
began his career as a Marianist in 1956 teaching
business and religion classes at high schools
in Ohio. In 1965, he was assigned to the treasurer’s office at
the University of Dayton. Two years later he became the first
business manager at Bergamo Conference Center, a Marianist
retreat center in Ohio. Brother Paul returned to the University
of Dayton as director of special services in 1971. The last seven
years of his ministry he worked in Cincinnati in finance and
membership services for the Cincinnati Museum Center. He
retired from the museum in 1998 due to illness.

A Gift to
Empower Change
ALTHOUGH MANY PEOPLE
cut back on their Christmas
giving in 2008 because of
the economy, one company decided
that their act of giving at Christmas
needed to be more, not less. Though
spring is almost here, this heartwarming
story from Christmas
showcases the true spirit of giving.
In the past John Leroux, owner of
Experient, a Chicago-based marketing
firm, and his colleagues gave their
customers Christmas gifts with a
clever or amusing theme. This time
they wanted to give something more
meaningful — something symbolic
of the Christmas message and their
beliefs about the importance of
building relationships. So for
Christmas 2008, John and his colleagues
chose to donate to an
African Marianist school in their clients’ honor — but with an
added touch.
“I didn’t want to write a check and just tell our clients that
we gave in their names,” says John. He also wanted them to
know the human story behind the school and how the gift
would affect many lives. Without the story, he thought his
clients might not realize the importance of the gift.
John has asked for periodic updates from the Marianists
about the school’s progress so that he can pass these stories
along to his clients and staff and help them feel more intimately
connected to people in Africa. “This gift shows our clients that
we are serious about making a difference and reinforces the same
values about our commitment to them and their business.
“We want the Marianists
to view us as partners in
this ministry,” says John, a
University of Dayton
alumnus. “We don’t want
our relationship to simply
be the check that we gave.
We want our humanity to
be recognized much like we
listen and acknowledge
the feelings and needs of
our clients.”
While at UD, a Marianist
university, John met
Marianist Brother Alex Tuss
and became aware of
Marianist ministries abroad.
He kept in touch with his
mentor and former teacher
and from their discussions
the idea for the African
school donation emerged.
John would like to see this gift trigger a domino effect in
giving among his clients. “We hope that by receiving ongoing
stories about how the gift empowers change in Africa, clients
will be motivated to do something for this school on their own.”
Katie Boyle, John Leroux and Sarah Renz, colleagues at Experient
BECOME A PARTNER FOR CHANGE
It is important to the Marianist Mission and Province Develop -
ment that those who give to Marianist ministries feel like a
partner. Partners share ideas and information as they build
trust with each other. They develop a vested interest in shared
work. Partners become a community which is at the heart of
the Marianist charism.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
If you are interested in becoming a Marianist partner to empower change, or to learn about other opportunities,
please call Lisa Gooding at 1.800.348.4732, ext. 222, or e-mail lgooding@sm-usa.org. You also may use the enclosed
envelope to send questions or contributions.

The Marianists
Province of the United States
4425 West Pine Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63108-2301
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 1018
St. Louis, Missouri
An ecology program that immerses students in the wonder of nature