Laurentianum 2011

The Laurentianum

Fall 2011

For the Future of Our Faith

Our history is rich.

Our present is strong.

Our future is alive with the Calvary Spirit.

The Magazine of St. Lawrence Seminary High School

IN THIS ISSUE

Reflections on the Future ................................ 2 So Why Me ..................................................... 7

Our history

The Wood of the Cross ................................... 8 History 1960-2011 ......................................... 10 Let the Games Begin ..................................... 19 Reunion Photos ............................................. 20 Don’t Let Uncle Sam Plan Your Estate .......... 21 Bonaventure Frey Young Alumnus Award ..... 22 It’s Amazing What the Lord Can Do .............. 24 Class Notes ................................................... 25

The Laurentianum is published by St. Lawrence Seminary High School in Mt. Calvary, Wisconsin for alumni and friends.

Our Mission and Values INSPIRED BY THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST and the example of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Lawrence Seminary provides a residential college preparatory education in a living Catholic community nurturing mature, wellrounded men of faith, who prepare for a life of ministry as priest, religious and lay leaders in the Church and world.

Fr. Dennis Druggan, OFM Capuchin President and Rector Editorial Staff: Fr. Dennis Druggan, Mary Patricia Voell Contributing Writers: Fr. Dennis Druggan, Dr. Richard Voell, Karen Mahoney, Jeff Krieg, Dan Woehrer, Willy Thorn, Br. Quan Nguyen Copy Editors: Deann Sippel, Audrey Sesing, Fr. Gary Wegner Please send correspondence to: Mary Patricia Voell Director of Marketing and Public Relations St. Lawrence Seminary High School 301 Church Street Mt. Calvary, WI 53057 Phone: (920) 753-7522 Fax: (920) 753-7507 Email: mvoell@stlawrence.edu Web: stlawrence.edu

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AT A CROSSROADS

is rich.

By Fr. Dennis Druggan, OFM Capuchin

U

I believe that the Calvary road makes all the difference in the life of a young man who decides to take this journey today and will continue to do so tomorrow.

Unique. One-of-a-kind. Stands alone. It is odd that an institution such as SLS boasts of those attributes which are all things teenagers dislike. Teens, for the most part, do not want to be called unique, at least not too unique. Adolescence is an important time to fit in with the group and be accepted by them, not to be one-of-a-kind. And who, in their right mind would want to stand alone at a party, walking the halls, or at an event?

But today as in the past, there are still young men willing to be unique, a rarer breed, and to walk a road-less-traveled. A quick snapshot of SLS in today’s educational high school market attests to this. A minor seminary boarding school in Wisconsin with an all Catholic male population in a rural setting speaks of our uniqueness. One-ofa-kind? For the most part. Standing alone?

Yes, SLS is formed in a Capuchin-Franciscan tradition with a diverse group of young men from a variety of locations and socioeconomic backgrounds from throughout the U.S. and world. Why? To offer a prep education, to form a community of brothers and with a commitment to prepare students to consider a life of ministry as a priest, religious brother, a committed layman or married man.

timeless and at the core of who we are called to be by Jesus Christ as HIS disciples. My belief is that as long as there is a believing community there will be a place for St. Lawrence. No, it is not a school for all, nor has it ever been. But there will be young men and families attracted to the traditions of our school in part because the ability to adapt, while never straying too far from the teachings of Christ, has always been a part of the Calvary Spirit.

Where does the gospel take flesh on the Hill? Like other Catholic schools it may begin in religion classes. But as a residential program, we can spend a great deal more time learning about, practicing and witnessing to the gospel. It takes flesh in our vibrant Eucharistic celebrations, the weekly offered Sacrament of Reconciliation, the Junior Confirmation program, prayer services, spiritual direction, retreats, ministry programs on and off the Hill and, especially, those places where we are blessed to rub shoulders with the poor and marginated. The gospel takes flesh as a senior mentors his freshman, a National Honor student sits late into the night tutoring a student struggling with Biology or a junior sits on a Friday night in the back of the darkened chapel asking the Lord to show him what he is to do with his life.

I steal from Robert Frost’s images of two roads diverging. I believe that the Calvary As a professional educator for over thirty road makes all the difference in the life of a years, I can attest that much has changed young man who decides to take this journey in the educational world. This will come today and will continue to do so tomorrow. as a surprise to no one. But sometimes we need to look beyond the tools now employed SLS is a unique high school journey. Here a bond of brotherhood will continue to be to educate ourselves and the young. We encouraged and witnessed to. Here the need to remember and look at the values values of the gospel will be espoused and, we espouse and expose young people to. imperfectly in our humanity, witnessed. At Chalkboards have grown outdated and whiteboards, too. Payphones and snail mail SLS what is old will continue to be made new on the Hill because Jesus Christ is the same and even printed text books are all soon to be tools from the past. Yet, some things are yesterday, today and forever. stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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REFLECTIONS ON THE FUTURE | AT A CROSSROADS

Our present

DEEP GLADNESS. WORLD’S HUNGERS.

By Dr. Richard Voell (’71)

T

he kind of work God usually calls us to is the kind of work that you need most to do and that the world most needs to have done… The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s hungers met.

Frederick Buechner’s definition of vocation in his little book, Wishful Thinking.

Through the past 150 years God has called St. Lawrence Seminary High School to the work of nurturing vocation. Young men have graduated from SLS and followed their vocational call into religious life, priesthood, married and single life.

What is our track record for responding to Buechner’s understanding of vocation as mentioned above? How have we done with nurturing deep gladness? In other words, in what ways has St. Lawrence helped students uncover the place in their heart that energizes, animates and motivates them? How have we done in providing opportunities whereby the deep gladness in one’s heart responds to the world’s hungers?

The structures, process and programs of St. Lawrence have responded to nurturing deep gladness. Often the impact is not immediately evident. One only has to read Harlan Fricke’s reflection (Laurentianum | Spring, 2011) for an example of planting seeds that one day may grow! I am sure there are

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countless alumni who look back on the years at the Hill and respond: I didn’t know it at the time, but Calvary changed my life. It forged me in character, Gospel values, skills for living. If these same alums would have access to Buechner’s definition I have no doubt that they would agree that SLS planted the seed for a meeting between their own deep gladness and the world’s hungers.

What does the confluence of deep gladness and world’s hungers look like in the life of a St. Lawrence student? One small component of the SLS program is the experience of serving others through a variety of programs: helping with Special Olympics, Broken Bread meal program, housing rehabilitation in central-city Milwaukee, mission trip to Mexico – among others.

Special Olympics reminds you to see inside yourself and find the heart again, and open up to the world. Christian Saldivar (’08).

Students have learned to trust the movement of God’s Spirit in their lives as they encounter the hungers of world.

There are very few ministry trips that I have actually been excited to go on, but working with tools has always been a love of mine. This, coupled with knowing how much difference I was truly making, gave me a reason to smile while we drove away. Logan Swanson (’08)

Is the SLS community poised

is strong.

to respond to the two halves of Buechner’s definition: uncovering deep gladness and responding to

For me, the Mexico Mission Trip was both a deeply moving spiritual and intellectual experience; and when I came back to the States, I saw things in different perspectives.

It is a positive life-changing experience and I encourage everyone to try to take part in it. Arturo Aguirre (’08).

the world’s hungers?

Through experiences of encountering the hungers of the world St. Lawrence Seminary students have had consciousness raised, awareness broadened and gratitude deepened.

During my Milwaukee Experience, I was surprised to see how people, who I thought had nothing, did not lose their hope. Then I could understand that with that hope, they could survive and try to solve their problems and get back to their life. Yong Seok Ro (’08).

When we went on the housing rehab trip, I was really excited about working, but when we got to the work site and had the objectives explained to us, I really began to realize the depth and importance of the project. We were told that home ownership in inner city neighborhoods encourages care for the neighborhood. I saw all the work we did and was glad that I could be a part of something that will change how inner city Milwaukee is today.

Robert Draftz (’08).

Reflecting on past accomplishments, recalling experiences and telling stories of life on and after the Hill is a wonderfully affirming exercise. The Spirit of God has worked through so many, to accomplish so much. The Sons of Calvary have moved into and had an impact on numerous communities throughout the state of Wisconsin, the United States and the world.

Yet, what foundations are in place for St. Lawrence High School to continue to nurture vocation? Is the SLS community poised to respond to the two halves of Buechner’s definition: uncovering deep gladness and responding to the world’s hungers?

The 150-year-old dream of our founders has been to respond to the type of work God calls us to. Is the seminary high

school community poised to respond to the world’s hungers?

I believe we are. The Spirit of God moves through the many aspects of the SLS program: spiritual formation, academic rigor, social skills, cultural diversity, life in community, and so much more. The entire staff of St. Lawrence, whether faculty or residential life, maintenance or development, secretarial, kitchen or housekeeping, is devoted to creating an environment in which young men can thrive and uncover how God may be calling them to respond to the hungers of the world. It is a spirit-filled group of people that has been called together to model to our students deep gladness.

Our students come from an incredible variety of cities, states and countries and many have not had extended contact with someone outside their own ethnic group. Our students come together at St. Lawrence where many have not had the safe and affirming structures that provide for learning and thriving as an adolescent male. So many of our students have not had first-hand experience with homelessness, poverty, Special Olympics athletes, elderly in nursing homes and so many other world needs so that they can return to their home neighborhoods and home lands a bit more equipped to respond to those needs.

The staff, structures, programs – the entire mission of St. Lawrence Seminary High School – is to provide a setting through which God’s Spirit might touch the heart of those present.

We are poised to continue to invite young men to respond to stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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REFLECTIONS ON THE FUTURE | AT A CROSSROADS

Our future is alive with the Calvary Spirit.

Summoned by the God who made us Rich in our diversity Gathered in the name of Jesus, Richer still in unity. their deep gladness by providing a safe environment within which they can deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ, grow academically, learn critical thinking skills and have experiences that break open their worldview just a little bit.

We are poised to foster vocation as we move into the years ahead with such strengths as diversity of student population, safe environment, opportunities to serve others, and so many other strengths that lead St. Lawrence Seminary into the future.

We are poised to respond to hungers of the world by equipping our students with the skills with which to approach societal needs whether in Church work or the business world, whether in healthcare, family life or in neighborhood communities.

The core statement for the Capuchin Province of St. Joseph mission is: Transforming the world through reverence.

As SLS continues to put in place the structures needed to bring together deep gladness and the world’s hungers – the world is being transformed, one experience, one vocation at a time.

Anyone who has visited St. Lawrence for Sunday Eucharist is struck by the sound of 200+ males singing. It truly is an awesome sound. It seems appropriate to bring this reflection to a close with the use of song verses. For me the words summarize the St. Lawrence experience; they bring together all that we have been about for the last century and a half and present us with the challenge for the future. The words come from Sing a New Church by Delores Dufner.

R: Let us bring the gifts that difer And in splendid varied ways.

Sing a new church into being One in faith and love and praised.

Trust the goodness of creation; Trust the Spirit strong within.

Dare to dream the vision promised Sprung from seed of what has been.

Bring the hopes of every nation; Bring the art of every race.

Weave a song of peace and justice; Let it sound through time and space.

Draw together at one table All the human family; Shape a circle ever wider And a people ever free.

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ST. LAWRENCE SEMINARY | RELIGIOUS VOCATION STORIES

SO WHY ME?

By Br. Quan Nguyen (’04) “One often meets his destiny on the road he takes to avoid it.” That is what Oogway the turtle says to Shifu in the movie Kung Fu Panda. You are probably asking yourself, “Why is this guy quoting an animated children’s film in a Vocation Update?” Well, the answer is simple-that is exactly what I did. I ran away from and avoided my destiny for years, and it ended up there anyway – as a Capuchin novitiate.

Life was a struggle in every way after I graduated from St. Lawrence Seminary High School. I could not do anything right. Breaking the promise I made to my father on his death bed, “I’ll be the best man I can be and be someone you can be proud of.” I had the responsibility of keeping my father’s name respectable and I felt I was failing in every way possible.

I was scared, maybe even terrified. So, I did everything in my power to avoid joining or even talking about joining the Capuchins.

There was no way I was going to let another thing that I wanted like the Capuchins or the priesthood, which I had dreamed of since the tender age of five, be added to my long list of failures.

The fear grew and grew. I wanted the world to just stop moving until I was ready to move with it, but I knew as well as anyone else that the world was going to keep moving with or without me. I needed some kind of change, or better yet, conversion.

Then my all-time favorite Bible passage, Jeremiah 29:11 materialized and served to remind me to trust in God’s intentions.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

It hit me that maybe things were not prospering because I was running away from what God had planned for me. To quote Oogway again, “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present.” I needed to stop living in the past and start embracing the gifts God blesses me with everyday.

With all of that in mind, I took the plunge.

Capuchin life has been one of the most, if not the most prosperous times of my life. Being here in Novitiate has given me a lot of time for reflection. The same

question has always challenged me. Why me, God? Everyone here is so talented and gifted while I am so average. So, why me? Do not think that I am selling myself short. God has blessed me with the awareness of what I am capable of and what I am not. He has blessed me with the ability to do well enough in all things and not do terribly at anything. Hence, my talent is being average.

This reflection reminded me of another quote from the animated film, Ratatouille.

In Ratatouille, Chef Gusteau says, “Anyone can cook.” Anyone can follow Christ. With Christ by one’s side, one can accomplish anything. Christ calls anyone and everyone to follow Him. He calls us all to do something more with our lives, which can be done through all types of vocations whether that’s the priesthood, religious life, single or married life. No one vocation is better than the others, but what fits the best for me is the Capuchin life.

I must also remember that God gives us the means if we listen. With my trust in God and Christ by my side, I have found a life where I can truly be prosperous and bring the gift of fraternity which I learned from my years at St. Lawrence - one of the greatest things one can experience in life.

So what better way to live than as a Capuchin friar, spreading that sense of fraternity to the world and maybe one day even teaching it, and instilling that same sense of fraternity in the young men of tomorrow.

Br. Quan Nguyen is a student in Chicago and works at St. Lawrence on the weekend. From: Capuchin Franciscans Vocation Update. For more information visit www.CapuchinFranciscans.org

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Brother John Wilger (’66) by: Karen Mahoney

THE T WOOD OF THE CROSS

he rings tell the story of the fertile years, periods of drought, storms and insect damage, and all comprise the history of the 153-year-old tree. The once stalwart edifice finally succumbed last year—unable to withstand one more burst of wind. The mighty oak had done its task well, providing food as well as a shady sanctuary for birds, squirrels and other creatures, including young men wandering the grounds while taking a break from their studies.

Who knew that this tree, once a tiny sapling, would witness and grow with the dream of Fr. Francis Haas and Fr. Bonaventure Frey, when they arrived from Switzerland to establish a Capuchin Order in the United States? After the small friary was built, the Convent Latin School opened with four students, ultimately blossoming into St. Lawrence Seminary High School.

Ironically, Br. John Wilger, a woodworking instructor for the past 38 years, found the fallen tree in a swamp, a watery grave as its reward for years of faithful service.

Still, the fragile oak fulfilled one final sacrifice, offering its wood as a legacy for learning.

“I’m not sure why, but along with the help of Dr. Gereon Welhouse, I decided to cut a three to four inch slab off of that trunk, shaved it to make it thinner, and shaped it with a router to make it smooth,” he said. “Then I soaked it in polyethylene glycol for three weeks to stabilize the cells in the wood to keep the wood from becoming brittle, sanded it and finished it with a plastic finish.”

After the preservation process was complete, Br. John used masking tape to create a line from the pith to the outer edge and had his woodworking students count the rings as a lesson to see how a tree grows and how climate changes affect the growth.

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THE WOOD OF THE CROSS | BROTHER JOHN WILGER

“We were all surprised to see that it was 153 years old and it was pretty neat to know that it was here when our founders came here,” he said. “There was one area of the tree that had a crack in it and I covered it with a Tau cross. We had it on display for the sesquicentennial celebration and now it hangs in the hallway near my shop. I am not sure if this was Divinely Inspired or not, but that is the only explanation I can think of as to why I saved this piece of the trunk.”

Br. John is as much at home with wood as he is with St. Lawrence. He grew up as the second oldest of 13 children on a dairy farm in Rice Lake, chopped wood to warm the woodstove in the house, cut and shaped wood for outbuildings, fences and furniture.

“My folks still live on the farm; Dad turned 90 this past October and my mom is 86; I spend summers and holidays with them to help out as much as I can.” he said. “All of my siblings are married, except me and my brother Gerard, who is a priest at Holy Rosary Parish in Medford.”

As he finished grade school, Br. John learned of the St. Lawrence Brother’s School, at the time, just down the road from the current school. He attended and graduated in 1966, enrolled at UW-Stout where he majored in education and minored in art. Following graduation, he joined the seminary in 1972, and went on to teach at his high school alma mater in 1973.

“It is a fantastic place to teach and the most ideal place,” he said. “I cannot imagine being anywhere else. I think the students enjoy being around wood too as they come here after school and often on their free time to make things on their own.”

Quickly grasping the concept of routers, saws, sanders, and drill presses, the young men amaze Br. John in their ability to create large-scale projects. Despite the desire to create a coffee table or hutch to give their parents as gifts, many of the projects have been scaled down to accommodate air travel.

“So many of the guys who travel to different countries can’t take these large items home, so I have revamped my philosophy and now give smaller projects that use the same principles only on a smaller scale,” he said. “But they do enjoy making gifts to give to their families, and I think they are proud to show them what they can do.”

In addition to woodworking, Br. John has taught art since 1988, and occasionally dabbles in projects when he has time, such as pottery and his favorite medium, sculpture.

“Right now I am working with the students on Paper Maché,” he said, “We are doing the Hilltopper head because the guys wanted to change the design and revamp the size.”

Working with wood brings Br. John closer to nature, which leads him ultimately to becoming closer to God. He is able to share his love for Christ with his students in the respect they learn for wood, renewing and recycling natural resources, as well as in the annual creation of the Tau crosses for the class officers and the seniors.

“I always have the kids make them for the other students because I feel they should give back to the school—so they do these crosses on their own time,” he explained. “Each of the seniors will get a Tau cross when they graduate in the spring and we do the ones for the class officers in the fall. Each cross is two and a half inches long.”

Living in the true sense of what St. Francis meant, when he said, “Preach the gospel at all times and when necessary, use words,” he does not boast his faith, but like the Oak tree, remains a quiet and sturdy witness, drawing youth to Christ by example. stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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YESTERDAY | CELEBRATING 150 YEARS

Celebrating 150 years Chapter III: 1960–2011

by Jeff Krieg (’81) THE TURBULENT SIXTIES

T This is the last installment to be published.

The first installment covered 1860 - 1910.

he 1960s, by any account, were a time of social upheaval in the United States marked by assassinations, war civil rights movement and the questioning of conventional beliefs.

Within the Catholic Church, too, began a period of change with the calling of the TwentyFirst Ecumenical Council or Vatican Council II (1962-1965). Announced in 1959 by Blessed Pope John XXIII, the intent of the council was to seek ways to ensure “that the sacred heritage of Christian truth be safeguarded and expounded with greater efficacy” in the modern world.

Many years of post-conciliar change and experimentation followed.

St. Lawrence Seminary was, in many ways, reflective of the period of change happening in the greater society and the church. Yet, the seminary retained many traditions and practices, rooted in the Capuchin-Franciscan tradition, that made it a distinct institution and connected it to past decades.

The second installment covered 1900 - 1950.

This issue features 1960 - 2011.

As SLS entered the 1960s, the institution faced a seemingly bright future. The building goals of the “Greater Laurentianum” plan, first proposed in 1946, were on their way to being met with the completion of St. Anthony Hall, St. Mary’s Hall and the new student chapel. By 1961, the enrollment at SLS and the St. Francis Brothers’ School topped 350 students. In addition, St. Fidelis Hall, completed in 1963, provided SLS with a modern gymnasium.

Under the rectorship of Fr. Gratian (Roger) Zach from 1955-1967, SLS experienced an array

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of changes and improvements. While rector, Fr. Gratian oversaw a long list of “firsts.” Perhaps most significant was the first accreditation of the seminary by North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in 1966 and the revision of the curriculum to offer numerous electives, physical education and business courses. Teachers were also expected to have degrees and pursue continuing education. A student yearbook was introduced in 1963, a student council in 1964 and a school newspaper, Hilltopics, published its first volume in 1965. A track team was first organized in 1963 and the first layman, Mr. John Horn, was hired to teach physical education. SLS also first competed in debate and then forensics competitions beginning in 1965.

By 1965, the era of liturgical changes had begun. Vernacular, offertory and prayers of the faithful debuted at SLS as they did in Catholic churches all across the world. Mass in the student chapel switched from ad orientem to facing the congregation. Con celebration of Masses was introduced. Fr. Werner Wolf remembered, “Those were exciting days. We were on the cutting edge of the evolution of Vatican II in the seminary program.”

Yet much continued to be the same. Fr. Gratian, a much-loved man filled with an untiring work ethic, deep spirituality, sharp intellect and a warm demeanor, set the tone for much of the 1960s at SLS. A superb athlete as well, Fr. Gratian could be found playing softball on the Upper Diamond or basketball in the gym, even in his Capuchin habit. His love

for students was obvious. Traditions such as the Christmas Concert, Talent Show, Field Day and school plays all continued.

But as society changed in the mid-1960s, signs of change became visible at SLS. In 1960, only priests were instructors at the seminary.

Over thirty Capuchins served at SLS, twenty-eight of them priests. By decade’s end, the faculty included Capuchin brothers, a lay man and a religious sister.

The times were changing. Students presented regular “hootenannies,” informal musical performances. The school paper began a regular column listing popular music of the day, as well as movie and album reviews. By the time Fr. Gratian left office, SLS not only had a revised curriculum and physical modernization, as an institution it was poised to engage the world changing all around it.

INTO THE SEVENTIES In 1967, Fr. Crispin Weinberger became rector of SLS. Long in charge of the SLS Building Fund, Fr. Crispin had been vice rector and a close friend and adviser to Fr. Gratian. “He was a dynamic, smooth, lovable man,” Fr. Werner remembered. “He was strict, but also gentle.” Fr. Ron Smith, then a dorm supervisor, recalled Fr. Crispin as “an extraverted person, straightforward and very direct in his communications with both friars and students. He was upbeat and cheerful.” With 290 students, stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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YESTERDAY | CELEBRATING 150 YEARS

SLS brimmed with activity and energy. Fr. Crispin completed the final buildings that had been proposed in the “Greater Laurentianum” plan.

After much discussion, not all of it happy, Holy Cross parish church was demolished and a new church built below the Hill in Mount Calvary.

The old friary was also razed to make way for a new friary and student chapel, completed in 1971. The former student chapel was converted into an auditorium, while its lower level became the school library.

Many students appreciated later retiring bed times, introduced in 1967. SLS joined the National Honor Society. Cross Country became a varsity sport in 1967 and a Fine Arts Week debuted in 1968. Wisconsin Governor Warren Knowles visited SLS in September 1967. Editorials in the school paper reflected the issues of the day, with articles about, among other topics, air pollution and prejudice. In 1970, the seminary held a Minority Awareness Day and in 1971, students established the Coalition of Oppressed Peoples (COOP). An Ecology Club began in 1972, as did Students Organized Against Racism (SOAR). The Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade in 1973 led many students to become involved in the pro-life movement. In 1972 a regular collection by the Mission Club called “Pennies for the Poor” also began.

In 1971, Fr. Crispin Weinberger retired from SLS and an era seemed to end. Fr. Werner Wolf recalled that Fr. Gratian and Fr. Crispin were like the “Bonaventure and Francis of the 1960s.” Fr. Joseph O’Connor, who had been vice rector and teacher, assumed the office of rector for the 12

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next 6 years. Fr. Joe was regarded as a holy man. Fr. Ron Smith, who served as vice rector under Fr. Joe, remembered him as traditional, but “open to authorized changes taking place in the Church.”

A large number of priests and nuns had left their respective vocations in the years after Vatican Council II. In 1964, there had been 419 friars in the Province of St. Joseph. By 1973, there were 378. The number of novices also decreased. Many minor seminaries around the United States closed. The Junior College program, however, ended in 1970, when college-aged men preparing to enter the Capuchin Order transferred studies to Marian College in Fond du Lac. In 1971, these students moved off-Hill to Calvary Station. St. Francis Brothers’ School also merged with SLS in 1971. Throughout this period, the number of lay staff continued to increase.

SLS continued hosting weekend summer Super Action Retreats for middle school boys, the primary recruitment method for the seminary.

A combination of spiritual exercises, group activities, and athletic competitions, along with a healthy emphasis on boy-friendly yelling, running and eating, these retreats introduced literally hundreds of future students to the seminary.

Many students in the 1970s would no doubt remember the popularity of individualized instruction in English and math classes at SLS, which began in 1972. Considered cutting edge methodology at the time,

individualized instruction allowed students to work at their own pace and at different levels. A growing number of black students also appeared at SLS beginning in 1973. A heightened awareness of racial issues and prejudice was cultivated through guest speakers, in classes and through groups like COOP and SOAR. Fr. Joe O’Connor had a “special interest in minority students,” recounted Fr. Ron. The period of the 1970s often brings to mind such things as bell-bottomed jeans, long hair and an informality that was often much different from previous years. SLS students reflected some of these trends, also. Yearbook portraits, for which students once dressed formally, became increasingly informal in the 1970s, with group pictures of students dressed in casual clothes. Hair became longer. Events such as “Black Awareness Day” and “Minority Week” and a visit by the singing group “Up With People” reflected the spirit of the times.

In its opening pages, the 1971 yearbook not only quotes Vatican Council II, but also the folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary.

The same period of the 1970s saw a great deal

of liturgical experimentation. SLS formed a student Liturgical Committee in the early 1970s, introduced guitar “combos” at Masses and hosted a “Soul Mass.” Each class held a Class Mass once a week. The Sing Praise book often used at Masses contained songs from “If I Had A Hammer” to “Blowin’ in the Wind,” among many others.

to be present or organize us. We were the pretech generation. A transistor radio under your pillow with an ear phone in our barrack style dorms was the norm. The friars were mostly young and I was impressed by their prayerful and playful spirit.”

Yet, despite all the change, certain things remained the same at SLS during the entire turbulent period of the 1960s and 1970s.

Yearly events like Field Day and the Talent Show continued. The Stamp Club, Explorer Scouts and even a Rocket Club all remained popular.

Students were occupied with studies, attended sporting events and put on annual plays.

The SLS Cross Country team won the State Championship in 1976, after 6 consecutive years as conference champions. The varsity football team had a 7-1 record in 1973, while varsity basketball had a 12-7 record. Current rector Fr. Dennis Druggan, a student in the early 1970s, highlighted some differences between then and now, noting that, “Almost all the teachers were Capuchins. The days were very structured, but different from today because we knew how to play without the staff having

The abrupt departure of Fr. Joe O’Connor in the winter of 1976 led to a change in leadership.

The enrollment of SLS continued to be very high, with an overall program that maintained many of the changes which had been undertaken since the 1960s. Individualized instruction continued, along with a long list of clubs from the Hunters’ Club to a Rosary Club. In 1978, both COOP and SOAR were supplanted by a new minority organization, People’s Union. Its members numbered almost 50 students who were black, Latino or Native American. Many of the faces at SLS had changed since the 1950s.

THE UNCERTAIN EIGHTIES

Student life remained a routine of classes, meals, work crews, sports and socializing with classmates. The 1970s were the years when students would have experienced mail being distributed table by table at evening meals,

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YESTERDAY | CELEBRATING 150 YEARS typewriters in the “Typing Room,” and the tennis courts on the east side of campus. The smell of homemade sweet rolls and freshly baked bread regularly wafted through the air on campus. These were the years of intense intramural competitions, a fan tunnel lining the hill down to the football field through which players ran, and screaming Hilltopper cheerleaders at any sporting event. The Calvary Spirit, as in the past, continued to be enkindled.

1980s “righted a sinking ship,” as Fr. Paul Craig stated, and reinforced a foundation for future growth.

Needed changes were spearheaded at the right time. In conjunction with the province, Fr. Paul undertook a study of other high school seminaries and, together with a provincial committee, refined the philosophy and mission of SLS. A new philosophy and mission statement, adopted in 1986, specifically stated that SLS had, as its purpose, “the preparation of Fr. Paul Craig assumed the rectorship in adolescents for active ministry in the Catholic 1982. Long a member of the faculty and Church.” coach, Fr. Paul brought to the position candor, intelligence and deep spirituality. Yet SLS In the 1980s, due to declining enrollment, entered a period of uncertainty during the St. Francis Hall was closed and the seniors 1980s. Enrollment, which had stood at nearly relocated to the St. Mary Hall dormitory. Yet 280 in 1981, dropped to 224 in 1982, 211 numerous other activities demonstrated that in in 1984 and 182 by 1985. The number of many ways SLS continued on as always. Physical friars on staff likewise dropped significantly. changes included the replacement of the Main In 1981, 37 friars were part of the staff. By Building windows, a major and costly project.

1986, there were 28 friars. The 1981 and In 1985 the business office was remodeled and 1984 Capuchin Chapters, in fact, questioned the fence replaced on the Upper Diamond. A the future of the seminary and called for new heating system was finally installed in the further study of the overall program. While Main Building in 1986. Super Action Retreats it seemed as if SLS might go the way of many continued, hosting 1,500 boys in the summer minor seminaries, actions undertaken in the of 1984 alone. The number of friars on the

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staff, however, continued to decline. In 1985, hopeful for the future, SLS celebrated the 125th Anniversary of its foundation.

REBOUND In 1985, Fr. Keith Clark, former Capuchin vicar provincial, joined the faculty of SLS. Due to his efforts, the administrative structure of the seminary was changed. The office of president was created to function as a liaison to the province, as well as alumni, parents, the archdiocese and prospective students. The rector could then focus his attention on the daily operation of SLS. This structural change took place in 1986, when Fr. Joe Diermeier became rector and Fr. Keith Clark the first president of SLS. Fr. Keith also undertook two major studies in 1986 that sought to identify the seminary’s strengths and weaknesses and how it could better market its strengths. A second study examined alumni attitudes about SLS. Each study yielded results that helped SLS devise new ways to market itself and move into the present. Recruitment of students also changed. Super Action Retreats were discontinued after 1987. Instead, a new

focus on marketing to parents was undertaken and prospective students were recruited for “weekend visits” to campus.

Enrollment continued to slide in the midst of change. Then the big turnaround occurred.

Due to a recruitment effort among Latino and Asian American communities, the seminary saw a dramatic increase in enrollment in 1992. By the mid-1990s, the SLS student body was roughly one-third Caucasian, one-third Latino and onethird Asian. Another source of students was from the community of foreign workers located in eastern Saudi Arabia, a mission territory of Capuchins since 1956. In 1988, the enrollment stood at 153, with only 32 seniors and 25 juniors. But the numbers of the lower classes grew. By 1992, there were 70 freshmen as opposed to 30 seniors. The enrollment by 1999 was 222, the highest in many years. In addition, a larger number of students were retained for all four years. Fr. Gary Wegner, current Dean of Students and alumnus, related that, “It goes without saying that SLS is a much more diverse environment than it was in my day. That is both challenging and appropriate, given the multicultural nature of our church.” The changes in philosophy and mission, the administrative structure and recruitment tactics had paid off and helped bring SLS back from the shadows of uncertainty. The leadership of Fr. Keith Clark and Fr. Paul Craig were both instrumental in this achievement.

The other figures prominent in the late twentieth century at SLS were rectors Fr. Joe Diermeier and Fr. Dennis Druggan. Fr. Joe Diermeier assumed the office in 1986. A quiet, gentle man who had spent many years at SLS as a dorm supervisor, teacher, Academic Dean and spiritual director, Fr. Joe’s calm demeanor, concern for students and gentle humor, as well as his musical talents, were obvious attributes.

His spirituality, patience, intelligence and collaborative spirit all helped him guide the ship of SLS through significant changes and through its most serious crisis.

While the structure of the seminary and the faces of its students changed, much about life in an academic year remained the same.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, there were regular sporting events, forensics, Field Days and annual plays. A wide variety of clubs

continued. A partnership with the Gymnasium Johanneum in Ostbevern, Germany began in 1989 due to the efforts of Fr. Ed Dziedziejko.

For the first time, a group of German students visited SLS and attended classes with students.

In 1990, Fr. Ed led a group of SLS students to Germany to reciprocate the visit. Wrestling was introduced as a winter sport in 1990. Football, long a fall sport, was phased out in 1990, but soccer, first played on the varsity level in 1993, soon became a popular fall replacement. The increasingly multicultural student body of SLS led to the celebration of the Vietnamese New Year, Tet, in 1990. In 1993, the SLS student publications began using a Macintosh Quadra 610, then a cutting-edge computer system.

Academically, the winds of education shifted away from individualized instruction and toward an emphasis on critical thinking, cooperative learning and the use of technology in the classroom. Students from this era would recall demerits, Days of Recollection, announcements read over the intercom, the Reading Period and Hi-Lights pamphlets.

CRISIS In December 1992, as students departed for the Christmas holiday, SLS endured a crisis that shook the institution to its core. On December 20th, the Milwaukee Journal published an article which said that eight former students, mainly from the 1970s, claimed they were sexually abused by friars on the faculty and staff of SLS. Those accused included the former rector, Fr. Gale Leifeld and two friars who were currently on the staff. A media frenzy ensued and SLS endured several weeks of newspaper articles and lead stories on local news broadcasts. While criminal charges against the two friars then on the staff were dismissed, civil charges against the seminary, province and individual friars were pursued. A 1993 report filed by attorney E. Campion Kersten at the request of the Capuchins, discovered that, from 1968-1986, there were six friars who had been accused of sexual abuse. Nine persons also complained of “qualified acts” of abuse, which were inappropriate acts short of being criminal, involving an additional five friars. Of thirteen civil suits filed, six were dismissed, six were settled and one was judged in favor of the province. stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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YESTERDAY | CELEBRATING 150 YEARS While the revelations began a torturous selfexamination for the province, as well the institution of broad reforms, the SLS community weathered the storm. Provincial Minister Fr. Ken Reinhart said, “The scandal had little to do with Calvary except for its initiation and the media. Most of the cases we dealt with were not from Calvary.” Many within the SLS community worried about the impact of the scandal upon enrollment and the partner relationship the seminary had attempted to build with parents.

Worries were eased, however, when no students were lost after Christmas of 1992 and numerous alumni and parents publicly praised the seminary. Fr. Joe Diermeier’s regular communications with parents also did much to ensure their continued support. As a result, 60 or more freshmen continued to enter SLS nearly each year after 1992. When a second round of allegations swept the church in 2002, SLS was virtually unscathed, a testament to the actions undertaken by the province and the seminary since 1992 to guard against sexual abuse of minors.

FR. DENNIS & THE NEW MILLENNIUM Fr. Joe continued as rector until 1994, when Fr. Dennis Druggan was appointed to the office. Fr. Dennis had served as pastor of St. Labre’s Cheyenne Indian Mission in Ashland, Montana after his ordination in 1984, becoming president of the St. Labre School System in 1987 and served until 1991. Arriving at SLS in 1992, he served as Vice Rector, Dean of Students, teacher and dorm supervisor until assuming the rectorship. Bringing a strong administrative hand and a willingness to change virtually any area of campus life, Fr. Dennis also displayed a sense of humor and a love for students that quickly characterized his tenure as rector. He embarked on a series of major changes that overhauled the administrative structure of the seminary, impacted the daily life and behaviors of students and physically changed the campus.

In these regards, Fr. Dennis has joined the list of towering rectors such as Fr. Benedict Mueller, Fr. Gerald Walker and Fr. Gratian Zach.

The changes undertaken by Fr. Dennis had a dramatic impact on students and staff members alike. A new fraternity system was introduced in 1994 which divided the student body into groups or fraternities made up of members 16

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of each class. Bonds of friendship could then grow throughout a year through various fraternity activities, such as eating evening meals and praying together. Rather than class rivalry, which had often been intense in previous years, the fraternity system helped foster a safe environment for students while requiring the exercise of major leadership roles for seniors.

Likewise, a new program of social skills was introduced. Taught to freshmen and new students, the program became the new discipline system for the school, as its expectations were enforced by staff members across the curriculum and in residential life.

The program was supported by a detailed and regularly revised Student Handbook, which became the foundation of student behavioral expectations and discipline. A regular program of evaluation for teaching and supervisory staff was also inaugurated, with teachers receiving performance reviews for the first time.

In 1997, Fr. Dennis was instrumental in revising the administrative structure of SLS. The office of president was merged with that of the rector. A year later, the first SLS School Board, now known as the SLS Ministry Council, was established as an advisory body to the rector and a communications channel to the provincial council.

Changes in the dress code, often contentious in schools, included the introduction of school sweatshirts and, by 2009, a prohibition on blue jeans during the class day. Modern computers, the Internet, email, cable television and even video conferencing all appeared on campus.

The decline of the number of Capuchin friars on campus became more noticeable throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s. By 2010, fewer than 15 friars served at SLS. For the first time, lay persons assumed several administrative positions and lay teachers made up the majority of the faculty. Fr. Dennis also began hiring young college-aged alumni to assist with the large number of supervisory tasks on campus.

SLS continued to encourage service in the spirit of Jesus and St. Francis of Assisi to counter modern self-absorption. Its spiritual program touched virtually every area of student life on campus, emphasizing prayer and worship,

active service to those in need and the discernment of a life vocation, including a possible vocation to priesthood or religious life. Community masses, celebrated three times a week, included roles for the members of an assigned fraternity as lectors, gift bearers, acolytes, musicians, cantors and hospitality ministers. A Sunday collection was introduced to support a variety of worthy causes. Regular community morning and evening prayers, along with prayer throughout the class day, framed weekdays. In addition to yearly retreats for each class, numerous celebrations, ministry opportunities, spiritual direction and many opportunities for vocational discernment made the spiritual program of SLS vigorous and healthy. As Fr. Dennis Druggan has said, “We do our best to share the Capuchin Franciscan philosophy and story in our academic and spiritual programs. We graduate Catholics.

I think there is a need and place for that to happen in today’s Church.”

Campus improvements launched during Fr. Dennis’ tenure as rector have been long and impressive. Costing upwards of $10 million over the last 17 years, numerous building changes have been made to modernize, improve and beautify a very old campus.

Beginning in 1995 with a long-overdue remodeling of the refectory, major projects included: the creation of a computer lab, the remodeling of all Main Building classrooms and a complete overhaul of the science laboratory, the renovation of the third floor of St. Joseph Hall and restoration of its dormers

and the relocation of the Development Office from Calvary Station to the newly renovated basement of the Main Building. The library was completely renovated in 2006 and an elevator added to the Main Building in 2008.

A modern Fitness Center replaced the old weight room, the seats were recovered in the auditorium, the canteen remodeled and new classrooms constructed in the old racquetball court in St. Mary’s Hall. Behind the scenes, too, necessary maintenance also occurred, be it air conditioning or new lighting, shingles, bricks, windows, a sound system or heating system.

To add to the beauty of the campus, a large statue of St. Francis of Assisi was added near the Upper Diamond in 1998. Some projects were financed through the donations of the SLS Alumni Association such as the purchase of new beds for dorms and vans used for student transportation. In 2006, the Association also undertook the restoration of the Laurentianum’s cupola of the Main Building. The installation of a new track and soccer field, begun in 2011 and to be known as Alumni Field, was the latest in a very long list of physical improvements to the SLS campus.

While improvements to the campus indicated a community of vitality, other aspects of SLS student life reflected a community infused by the Calvary Spirit and one that shared a continuity with past generations. Students continued to be challenged by academic work.

Several classes were also offered for dual university credit. An active sports program drew the participation of many students. The

SLS soccer teams, especially, enjoyed great success, as did individual cross country runners, wrestlers and track team members.

In 2010, a popular tennis team was formed.

Campus intramurals, long a staple of student life at SLS, also continued to provide students with friendly competition and activity. A diverse list of organizations flourished, many the legacy of Fr. Roger Zach. The SLS Student Council, nearly 50 years old, remained particularly active in planning annual events.

The seminary’s yearbook and newspaper continued publication, both utilizing modern technology. Forensics, one of the most popular activities on campus, saw teams earn numerous state and conference championships. Band, choir and a math team all remained popular activities on campus. A wide variety of clubs also existed, reflecting student interests in, among other things, music, the outdoors, or foreign nations.

Fr. Dennis was also instrumental in a revision of the SLS Philosophy and Mission Statement in 2008 into a Statement of Mission and Values. Highlighting the seminary’s modern emphasis on spirituality, social skills, diversity, knowledge, safe community, and the humble commitment to service, the mission of SLS was refined to state that “St. Lawrence Seminary provides a residential college preparatory education in a living Catholic community nurturing mature, well-rounded men of faith, who prepare for a life of ministry as priest, religious and lay leaders in the Church and stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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YESTERDAY | CELEBRATING 150 YEARS world.”

Many annual events at SLS have remained the same for decades and contemporary years have seen these events repeat. What had, for many years, been Father’s Day and then Family Day in September became Parent Weekend in 2010. Other annual occurrences included The Hilltopper Invitational, a cross country meet begun in 1977, Spirit Week, the celebration of the Transitus and St. Francis Day in October and the Christmas Concert. January’s outdoor Winter Carnival, a tradition begun by Br. Dismas Seward in 1974, was likewise maintained to help drive away winter doldrums. A Cultural Heritage Celebration and Casino Night, held in February, reflects the ethnicities of students, but also provides students the opportunity to prepare and share ethnic foods. Field Day, a May tradition stretching back over 100 years, featured fraternity competition in a variety of races and track and field events. Class picnics, parties, field trips, movies and many spontaneous pick-up sports on the Upper Diamond or gymnasium helped create a community of brothers, but, whether students were aware of it or not, also continued some of the longest traditions at SLS. INTO THE FUTURE As SLS proceeds into the twenty-first century, new challenges and developments will no doubt have to be faced. Finances, enrollment and personnel, always issues in the past, will continue to be significant concerns. Ever-changing technology has also raised new issues. Email accounts, video games, iPods, flash drives and Facebook pages all appeared on campus.

The world of the founders, Frs. Francis Haas and Bonaventure Frey has shrunk in size, become less Euro-centric and, unfortunately, has often veered away from faith and instead emphasized national power, material greed and violence.

Despite all the changes and even setbacks the seminary endured over 150 years, from virtual bankruptcy to devastating fires, as well as changes in curriculum, philosophy, personnel and enrollment, SLS remains an oasis of optimism and witness that the words of Jesus can be lived out in a community. Despite normal disagreements, changes in the larger society and all the issues that come with adolescents, the values of the Gospel remain steadfast and unchanging. Celebrating the past and anticipating hopefully the future, the 2010-2011 celebrations of the Sesquicentennial of SLS also served as a reminder of the enormous reach of 18

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the Calvary Spirit in a world so in need of hope.

Reflected Fr. Dennis, “What God has blessed these years, some not so good and most very good, I hope and pray He will continue to do so on this holy Hill where the Capuchin Order was born in these United States.”

Sons of Calvary have graced and continue to grace the Church as bishops, priests, brothers, deacons and devout laymen. Rectors and administrators have kept the seminary modern and yet faithful to its core values. Faculty and staff members over the decades have imparted wisdom to thousands of young men who have hailed from all over the United States and the world. Parents have continued to support the mission of the school.

Benefactors, always the financial backbone of the seminary, continue to be generous and believe in the mission of SLS. Alumni, recent and those from long ago, remain loyal to SLS and continue to value its influence on them. The interaction of all of these groups together creates what has been called the “Calvary Spirit.” As Fr. Werner Wolf said, “The Calvary Spirit is really there!” Perhaps one reflection from a student in 1973 sums up the Calvary Spirit. He wrote, “Before I came here, people told me of a Spirit around Mt. Calvary. It took me a while to figure out what it was, but when you learn something good, you never forget it. This ‘spirit’ isn’t a ghost one; it’s a heavenly one. It’s something really wonderful and I doubt that there’s anything quite like it anywhere in the world.” Yet, those sentiments, written in 1973, could have been the words of nearly any alumnus from 1860 to 2010. And that may be the greatest testimony of all to the spirit of St. Lawrence Seminary.

Sources consulted: Baer, Rev. Campion. Lady Poverty Revisited: A History of the Capuchin Province of St. Joseph. Sterling Heights, MI: Lesnau Printing, 2005.

Clark, Rev. Keith. The Dreams of Our Founders and the Hopes of Our Students, 2010.

Laurentian, the yearbook of St. Lawrence Seminary, Volumes I-XLIX Hilltopics, the student publication of St. Lawrence Seminary, Volumes I-XLVI Personal or written interviews with: Fr. Werner Wolf, Fr. Ron Smith, Fr. Dennis Druggan, Fr. Gary Wegner The St. Lawrence Seminary Student Handbook

ST. LAWRENCE SEMINARY HIGH SCHOOL | LET THE GAMES BEGIN

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here’s nothing like Mt. Calvary on a sunny fall afternoon. I had the good fortune to be on the Hill for the 34th Annual Hilltopper and the Alumni Board meeting that followed that afternoon. I’m always proud to be there, especially when I get the chance to meet the young men who are today’s Sons of Calvary.

For me, they are the best part of any return visit to the Hill.

Saint Lawrence has never looked better, believe me. So many things have changed, so much remodeling and great rethinking how the space is used. And in so many of these improvements, I see the quiet hand of our Alumni working through the Alumni Association special project appeals over the years.

As I watched the cross country runners exert such great efforts to reach the finish line, I could look down the hillside and see the new track and soccer field, the new equipment storage shed, the parking spaces and the retention pond. I was amazed at how these areas have been transformed. I look forward to its dedication as Alumni Field with the new scoreboard already in place and the Alumni Recognition Monument soon to follow. I’m eager to read with pride all the names and classes who will be recognized there.

I can tell you of the deep and sincere gratitude I experience among the Capuchins, the seminary staff and even among the students. Fr. Dennis assures us that they pray for the alumni every single day, and I believe it to be true. Ask any student, Fr. Dennis told me … and I did … and they do … every day.

The Alumni will soon have raised the total $150,000 or more that was promised for the Alumni Field.

I’m sure all the money will be raised before Thanksgiving.

Alumni Field is a major and significant contribution to the future Saint Lawrence experience. Thank you for your part in this great effort. You have yet another reason to visit the Hill and another reason to be very proud.

CLASS DONATIONS 1932 $500 1936 $850 1938 $25 1939 $425 1940 $375 1942 $3,880 1943 $335 1944 $1,375 1945 $30 1946 $100 1947 $3,693 1948 $325 1949 $410 1950 $100 1951 $1,050 1952 $820 1953 $1,470 1954 $880 1955 $1,780 1956 $1,888 1957 $6,385 1958 $100 1959 $500 1960 $3,538 1961 $2,265

1962 $385 1963 $130 1964 $9,118 1965 $4,680 1966 $8,385 1967 $1,784 1968 $3,400 1969 $2,633 1970 $600 1971 $2,730 1972 $2,300 1973 $1,733 1974 $5,870 1975 $4,420 1976 $5,495 1977 $785 1978 $6,875 1979 $3,670 1980 $3,775 1981 $1,225 1982 $4,150 1983 $1,110 1984 $850 1985 $750 1986 $300

1987 $2,908 1988 $500 1989 $1,825 1990 $100 1991 $400 1992 $300 1993 $1,530 1994 $6,350 1995 $2,047 1996 $1,436 1997 $4,085 1998 $1,025 1999 $2,550 2000 $4,380 2001 $1,095 2002 $1,628 2003 $970 2004 $285 2005 $400 2006 $25 2007 $1,950 2008 $240 2009 $3,589 2010 $825 2011 $482

TOTAL: $151,179.00

Mark Kemmeter, President St. Lawrence Seminary High School Alumni Association

stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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Our St. Lawrence Seminary High School Sesquicentennial Celebration Choir

Fr. Oliver Bambanek, OFM Cap (’57 ) | Jerry Danks (’75) | Joshua Drees (’08) | Charlie Ennamoroto (’05) | David Gritt (’56) | Bob Hollenback (’56) | Kai Vang (’07) | Steve Voss (’75)

NOT LISTED IN ORDER OF PHOTO:

th

CLASS OF 1991

34 Annual Hilltopper

ST. LAWRENCE SEMINARY HIGH SCHOOL | REUNION PHOTOS

CLASS OF 2001

Class of ‘67 Reunion Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 15, 2012 when the 45th anniversary for the graduating class of 1967, which includes the junior college class of 1969, will be celebrated. There will be events planned for Friday evening and a trip to the Hill on Saturday. Twenty classmates and spouses are already planning to be there. Contact Charles F. Clark at clarkcf@centurytel.net to join the email network.

A n n i v e r s a r y

25 YEARS

Paul Koenig (‘82) 20

o f

F i r s t

P r o f e s s i o n

50 YEARS

Kenneth Reinhart (‘59)

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Randolph Graczyk (‘60)

o f

V o w s

i n

t h e

60 YEARS

Werner Wolf (‘50)

Myron Kowalsky (‘50)

Don’t Let Uncle Sam Plan Your Estate

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he only way you can provide for your heirs, make gifts to charity from your estate, and to act on your values is by having a Will or Trust (limited exceptions to this rule are beneficiary designations of life insurance and IRA’s). If you die without a Will or Trust, the laws of your state will decide to whom and where your assets will be distributed.

Dan Woehrer (‘65)

Special Assistant to the Rector

For example, if you are in a second marriage, have children from a first marriage or have a blended family, the distribution of your assets upon your passing without a Will may be very different than what you intended because state law will determine who gets what and how much. And this may not only cause hurt feelings among your survivors, but costly litigation as well.

According to various surveys that have been taken on the subject, approximately 40% of those who die each year do so without a Will. Now is the time to act if you do not have a Will or Trust in place. Take the earliest opportunity to arrange a meeting with an attorney knowledgeable about Wills and Trusts to get your estate plan in place.

Even if you already have a Will or Trust, it is a good idea to have your attorney review your estate plan with you. There have been several recent tax law changes, and these, along with your personal changes, might require a “tune up” of your estate plan.

An Interesting Tidbit Did you know that former Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Warren Burger, left behind a hand written Will to be probated upon his death?

While considered by many to be an eminent jurist, he was not an estate planner. His paltry 176 word Will failed to make provisions for federal estate taxes and did not make a grant of powers to his executors---a mistake that cost his estate thousands in attorney fees.

Some states allow an individual to hand write their own Will. Beware! These handwritten Wills (called Holographic Wills) frequently present multiple problems, usually requiring the services of an attorney and an appearance in a court of law to fix them. So save your heirs and loved ones some time and expense and have a qualified attorney assist you with your estate planning documents.

Moreover, never write on or add notations to your Will or Trust. This includes the scratching out of names or changing a beneficiary’s dollar amount or percentage. Doing so invalidates your estate plan and most certainly will involve legal fees that could have been avoided and which will diminish the assets going to your intended beneficiaries.

Finally, please consider naming Saint Lawrence Seminary as a beneficiary of your estate. Even a small amount or percentage of your estate will make a big difference.

It is because of thoughtful and generous individuals like you that we have been able to continue our ministry of educating young men to be priests, religious and lay leaders within the Church for these past one hundred and fifty-one years. A bequest to Saint Lawrence Seminary will be your opportunity to indelibly mark your legacy by helping our students hear the call of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Please feel free to call Dan Woehrer of our development office (toll-free) at 888-5268100 or email him at dwoehrer@stlawrence.edu if he could be of assistance to answer any questions you may have about making a gift to Saint Lawrence Seminary.

Capuchin Order | August 5, 2011 | Mt. Calvary, Wisconsin

60 YEARS

Niles Kauffman (‘50)

Timon Costello (‘50)

65 YEARS

Pius Cotter (‘46)

Matthew Gottschalk (‘45)

William Alcuin (‘36)

stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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ST. LAWRENCE SEMINARY HIGH SCHOOL | YOUNG ALUMNUS AWARD

Bonaventure Frey Y O U N G

A L U M N U S

AWA R D

The Story

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his story would never have been written, but for the grace of God and the faith of two men, Gregory Haas and John Frey, newly-ordained Swiss priests. It happened like this. Experienced Capuchins in their native Switzerland had told them: “Fantastic! Forget It!” Their fellow priests thought they were mad.

Their friends and relatives were up in arms. Why? Wouldn’t you question the sanity of two diocesan priests who wanted to journey across the sea and establish the Capuchin Order in America.

The Award

Both were young: Haas 29 and Frey 25. The tremendous popularity of the Capuchin Order in Switzerland had convinced them that America too needed the Capuchins. True, they had been ordained just a short time. They had never been to America. They had no financial backing to purchase land and build friaries. And no organization would supply them with men, not even the Capuchins. But the strangest fact of all – these priests were not Capuchins themselves.

Christ-centered visionary path.

Finding a home in America was their first objective. Then they would become members of the Capuchin Order. In their minds this was no wild dream. America needed the spirit of the Capuchins and God was calling them to accomplish the task. All their trust was in His Divine Providence. Without hesitation they sold their few earthly belongs, left their friends, relatives and home-ties and, with scant encouragement from the Swiss Capuchins, boarded a steamer for America. Father Haas and Father Frey had set their goal. There was no turning back.

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The Fr. Bonaventure Frey Young Alumnus Award recognizes the youthful spirit and determination of young men who have followed their own Specifically for alumni of 15 years or less, this distinguished award recognizes established and emerging leaders of recent St. Lawrence’s graduates.

Standards for recognition include the following: demonstrated leadership capability in the short and long term, substantial indication of a commitment to the service of others, and significant commitment to St. Lawrence and its mission.

Sesquicentennial Recipients

Juan Valenzuela (‘94)

W

Andrew Welhouse (‘00)

A

hen Richard Velasquez’s parents came to visit him during his freshman year, they often brought along his good friend, Juan Valenzuela.

Impressed by what he saw at St. Lawrence, the following August Juan’s parents drove him to SLS to join Richard for his sophomore year as a member of the Class of 1994.

The class was never the same again. A gifted mimic, Juan entertained his classmates with his impressions of teachers and supervisors, especially his wrestling coach, Mr. Dennis Holm. Juan put those communication talents to more formal use as a member of the SLS forensic team. After graduating from Loyola University in 1998, Juan joined the Illinois State Police. Today, Sergeant Juan Valenzuela’s communication skills serve him well as he is now the public information officer for the Illinois State Police and serves as the Treasurer of the Hispanic Illinois State Law Enforcement Association. Juan has been recognized by the HISLEA for his leadership, commitment and dedication to law enforcement and as a positive role model for young Hispanics. Married to Attorney Esperanza Rivera-Valenzuela, Juan is the proud father of a daughter, Esmeralda.

ndrew Welhouse learned about St. Lawrence early in his middle school years from uncles Tim and Mark Sprosty. He was immediately impressed after upper classmen prayed for his family during a liturgy - and he wasn’t even a student yet.

Nominations for the Brindisi and Bonaventure Frey Young Alumnus Awards will be taken beginning in March of 2012.

Awards will be presented at the 35th Annual Hilltopper and All Class Reunion events in September of 2012.

Andrew writes, “For all those who have climbed the hill, we leave with a strong foundation below us, and lofty ambitions above. We don’t look to the sky with expectations and self-importance; we look above with a smile of gratitude and life-long friends by our side.”

Andrew learned two important lessons at St. Lawrence that he applies as spokesman and communication director for Wisconsin Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald.

“That brother knows no race,” was a first lesson. Coming from an overwhelmingly white community, his first lesson took root in the diversified fraternities and common heartfelt dialogues about life. Friendship bonds shaped on intramural teams, study groups and shared hobbies experienced on the Hill, trumped any artificial barriers created by race or riches.

The second lesson of gratitude found its seed in Mr. Lou’s lesson on self-aggrandizing norms, and lead to a personal transformation of thanking God for ones graces instead of thanking oneself.

Andrew is soon to be married and moving to Chicago for a new career. stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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Biography of Brother Booker Ashe

Written by: Willy Thorn (’97)

amazing

it’s what the Lord can do

brother booker ashe

University Press is proud to announce publication of “It’s Amazing What the Lord Can Do,” the biography of Brother Booker Ashe, OFM Cap, in Fall 2011.

Brother Booker (now deceased) was an inner-city pillar, landmark humanitarian and all-around celebrity in Milwaukee. He was a civil rights icon, and community leader and organizer for the better part of four decades. He is perhaps best known for opening the House of Peace in the 1960s to increase outreach to the city’s least served and most forgotten.

He blazed a trail as America’s first Black Capuchin, and became a major mover and shaker in national Black Catholic circles from the 1960s through the 1990s.

Perhaps more importantly, he was a diverse and complex man, of astounding strengths and crippling weaknesses.

It’s Amazing What the Lord Can Do” is an in-depth look at the man, his city and the institution he founded and pioneered, told through the eyes and words of those who knew him best.

He also made historic waves in the American Church and Global Franciscan Family as the first unordained elected leader of a Religious Order in America. He was appointed to the Province of St. Joseph’s Provincial Council in 1970 - the first time the Capuchins had made such a move (worldwide) since 1603. He was also the first Black provincial counselor for any order in the United States.

Author Willy Thorn is a Milwaukee-based journalist, St. Lawrence graduate, and has earned his BA in Journalism, and MA in Mass Communication from Marquette University.

He is a long time Catholic media contributor -- including stints at Catholic News Service in Washington, D.C. and the Union of Catholic Asian News in Bangkok, Thailand – who has earned five U.S. Catholic Press Association awards for writing.

The book is completely original material, culled from nearly three dozen interviews, and more than 80 news articles. The 200 page paperback also includes black & white photos.

Cover design by SLS Alumnus Bernard Gomez (’97).

The History of Mt. Calvary Both books sell for $15.00 each. To order call 920-753-7522 or mvoell@stlawrence.edu.

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The Laurentianum | stlawrence.edu

ALUMNI NEWS | CLASS NOTES In Memoriam Rev. Monsignor Ralph R. Schmit (‘39) Robert R. Jacquart (’39)

Chris Schembri (’44) The spirit of Calvary is such a wonderful thing.

It provided great encouragement and inspiration to me to study for the priesthood. The Capuchin friars were also very inspirational and devout, especially the way they celebrated Mass and conducted themselves. They were a great example for me and my fellow students.

Norbert Wilger (’42) Raymond Mrozinski (’48) Melvin Briet (’53) Philip J. Giebel (’66) Mark Lorenz (’75) Larry Drefahl (’76)

Significant Reunions 1962 – 50 Years

John L. Beiswenger (’56) My third Christian novel, entitled “Bridge,” is about to be published and will be available on www.buybooksontheweb. com as are my other two, Link and Village. Abstract: “Death has lost its definition” is the heading on the cover of Bridge. The Search International research team is assembled once again, this time at a second community and village established near Millersburg, Ohio. They are asked to study a strange experience that happened to the founder, George Evans; one that changed his mind about the “process” of dying.

Fr. Norm Clisch (’57) Celebrated 46 years of active ministry with family, friends, parishioners and fellow priests on June 19, 2011. Fr. Norm is the brother of Gerald Clisch (’55), and uncle of James Armstrong (’98). Fr. Norm’s classmates include Fr. Keith Clark (’57), Fr. Oliver Bambenek (’57), and Fr. Bernie Sippel (’57).

1972 – 40 Years 1982 – 30 Years 1987 – 25 Years 1997 – 15 Years 2002 – 10 Years

Reunions Under Way 1981 – July 21 & 22, 2012 Contact: Keith Williams | matchpt40@yahoo.com

1967 – September 15, 2012

Bob Schulze (’57) The memories the St. Lawrence Music CD brought back are many: learning from Father Irvin, one of the great church music scholars in America; traveling to western Wisconsin to sing at his brother’s First Mass; staying up later than most learning new chant for the next morning’s Mass; getting up earlier on the day we left for Christmas vacation so we could stroll through the dorms waking up our fellow students with carols (rather than that darned bell)! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Alan Veik (’59) In 2010 Fr. Veik was honored along with fourteen others for distinguished service for outstanding contributions to the church and society at the Archbishop’s Vatican II Awards. Fr. Veik, ofm Capuchin at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Milwaukee was honored for his service to the Church.

Erico Ortiz (’73) retired in June 2011 as Assistant Principal from the Milwaukee Public Schools after 33.5 years of service as a para-professional, Spanish teacher, District Supervisor, and Assistant Principal. He continues his music ministry as Spanish Choir Director at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Milwaukee.

Contact: Charles F. Clark | clarkcf@centurytel.net

Get your class together.

Darnell Waun (’73) retired from the Air Force in October 2006 in the grade of Colonel following 28 years of service in the Nurse Corps. He is currently the Patient Educator at University Transplant Center in San Antonio, Texas. He had a liver transplant in October 2005 and is using his experience “on both sides of the bedrails” to educate recipients and families on living stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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ALUMNI NEWS | CLASS NOTES with transplant. He received his BS in Nursing from Marian University in Fond du Lac, a MA in Organizational Management from Webster University in St. Louis MO, a MS in Nursing from the University of Maryland in Baltimore, and a MS in National Strategic Resourcing from National Defense University in Washington D.C. Darnell is also the Director of Music at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in San Antonio where he cantors and also directs the adult choir. He and his wife Jolene Wasinger have two adult children, Michael and wife Casey, Andrea and husband Tony, who also live in San Antonio.

John Bienlein (’77) and wife Brenda celebrated a 29th Anniversary in June, 2011. Three children: Kyle (23), Tyler (19), Kayla (15), and live in Burton, Michigan, just outside Flint. We’ve been involved with The Deaf Church for several years, and established one at Cornerstone four years ago as a Mission Church Plant with new name and focus. We launched Master’s Hands Deaf Church and will be celebrating our One Year anniversary on September 11, 2011. The Deaf Church recently called me to be the full-time Pastor and will be leaving my regular job with Delta Air Lines and going into full-time ministry with the Deaf Church in February 2012.

Gregory Piatt (’77) is now at Blessed John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, MA discerning a vocation to the priesthood with the Archdiocese of Detroit. He is in the first theology program at Blessed John XXIII, a seminary for men seeking the priesthood as a second career, with hopes for a 2014 ordination.

Mark L. Bauer, Brother of Tony (’81). I just wanted to say thanks for your generosity and kindness during our recent visit. It was truly an uplifting experience for me even though I didn’t attend St. Lawrence. It was always a great feeling when I came with my parents to visit over 30 years ago. This recent visit was more of a special retreat or sabbatical for me. I have been experiencing some health problems and a lot of stress at work these past months and I really, truly felt at peace at St. Lawrence on Friday. Tony and I did manage to spend some time praying in the chapel twice that day and I actually felt even closer to God at that point than ever before. Hopefully, Tony and I can come visit more often. Thanks again and God Bless.

Peter Kolar (’91) Karla Kolar was born June 21, 2011 at 12:22 p.m. 6 lbs 7 oz and 18.75”. My composition “Misa Luna” was recently selected as the official Mass setting for the Archdiocese of Chicago, and is being used in many cathedrals and archdioceses nationwide. In addition, I’ll be a speaker and featured performer at the upcoming Los Angeles Religious Education Congress in March.

Ken Palmer (’91) married to Jenny for fifteen years. We have three boys Kenny (13), Alex (9), & Matt (5). Living in Flint, MI. Working for Sherwin-Williams as Market Manager & have worked for them for twenty years.

Matthew Rottier Voell (’01) Presently living in Vancouver, British Columbia. Recent Papers Presented: “Conceptual Elements of Open Source Architectures in Biotechnology” at Reflexive Governance in the Public Interest - Democratic Governance and Collective Action, Palais des Académies, Brussels, Belgium, May 27, 2010. “Dignity in Health Care Law and Ethics: A Canadian Perspective” at The 6th International Conference on Clinical Ethics Consultation, Portland, Oregon, May 12, 2010. “Dignity in Law and Health Care: A Canadian Perspective” at Baylor Symposium of Faith and Culture: Human Dignity and the Future of Health Care, Waco, TX, October 29, 2010.

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The Laurentianum | stlawrence.edu

ALUMNI NEWS | CLASS NOTES Anthony Van Asten (’01) I will have finished my Masters program by the end of this month: Masters Degree in Educational Policy and Leadership from Marquette University, 2011.

Adam Pearson (’03) Currently my work is focused on the intersection of human influence and river systems. I am attempting to quantify the watershed scale impacts of run-of-river dam impoundments on river morphology, sediment transport, sedimentation and carbon cycling.

Specifically, my research is focused on building a conceptual model of the dam and river systems as they are currently and attempt to identify key processes that are unique to impoundments and how they have evolved over time. I hope this will allow us to understand how dams have influenced rivers since colonial times and inform removal projects, restoration efforts, and general knowledge about river systems.

Josué Lopez (’06) Josué is a new member of the Jesuit Partnership Council of Milwaukee. “Growing up on the Southside of Chicago, I saw many of my friends encounter negative distractions,” says Josue, a 2006 St. Lawrence and 2010 Marquette University graduate. “But I believe that with the right teachers, mentors and family support, you can overcome obstacles and achieve success.” People opened doors for me. Now a financial analyst, I see it as my duty to help open new doors for others. As the beneficiary of a Capuchin and Jesuit education which encompassed not only academic studies, but inspired me to put my faith into action and grow as a servant leader, I know firsthand the positive impact it can have on a person’s life. Realizing how fortunate I am, I feel it is my turn to give back. From: Wisconsin Province - Jesuit Partner Profile June 24, 2011 Travis Huhn (’07) Travis earned a top honor when he was named Marquette’s Student Employee of the Year. He also was chosen from a slate of 4,500 candidates as the 2011 National Student Employee of the Year, an award presented by the National Student Employment Association. “I love my job,” says Huhn, who works in the Department of Public Safety at Marquette University, “and I care about the program because of the people in it.” Successive promotions kept Huhn busy in DPS as a nighttime supervisor, student employment coordinator and computer development assistant, responsible for helping create database and online document sharing systems to reduce paperwork in the department. With Huhn one semester short of graduation, his supervisor, Sgt. John Kolosovsky, jokes he is talking to Huhn’s professors about failing him. He’d like to keep Huhn employed in DPS. “The kid is a gem.” From: Marquette Magazine July 26, 2011.

Mitch Salm (’05) Powerless, has received a considerable amount of press in Chicago from WBEZ, Time Out Chicago, and others.

Mitch Salm shares the media coverage of his most recent creative journey. Co-writer, Mitch Salm tells of his two interviews and a great write-up tell the story of my most recent journey.

Kate Dries (August 10, 2011) from WBEZ 91.5 suggests that the “idea that a few twenty-somethings might want to be superheroes isn’t exactly groundbreaking.

Nor is a play based on a comic book. But combine them, and you’ve a Chicagobased mini-phenonmenon.

Powerless holds on to the comic book format by projecting 200 different panel images during the play. It also incorporates voiceovers and adds a live score - all in the hopes that the audience-member can put these disparate factors together on their own. Oliver Sava of Time Out Chicago writes: “Powerless follows superpowered twentysomethings. The ad hoc Society for Young Superheroes will produce three issues of its new comics-inspired stage endeavor.”

stlawrence.edu | Fall 2011

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Our future is alive with the Calvary Spirit.