2 0 2 1 S P R I N G I S S U E | T H E AT H E N A E U M M A G A Z I N E
“...stir into flame the gift of God...” -
Easter Vigil 2020, Stations of the Cross Courtyard, Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology
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2 Tim 1:6
SPRING 2021 ISSUE
CONTENTS 4 5 6 8 10 13 14
Features Pruning: The Lord’s Image for Growth
PUBLISHER Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology CONTRIBUTORS The Very Rev. Anthony R. Brausch, Ph.D., President & Rector Dr. Susan McGurgan, Director, Lay Ecclesial Formation Rev. Ryan Ruiz, Dean, Mount St. Mary’s School of Theology Ellen L. Wira, Marketing & Communications EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dr. Lori Rassati, Vice President, Development & Relations
Return to Worship Developing a Friendship with St. Joseph Living a Journey of Faith 2021 Ordinations to the Priesthood Donor Spotlight We All Have a Part to Play
W W W. A T H E N A E U M . E D U
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EDITOR Ellen L. Wira, Marketing & Communications GRAPHIC DESIGNER Katie Adelia Greenlee PRODUCTION Arnold Printing The Athenaeum is published two times a year for alumni, patrons and friends of Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology. To be added to the mailing list, contact Gloria Ann Castleman at 513.233.6159 or advancement@athenaeum.edu.
My Dear Friends, As St. Paul begins his second letter to Timothy, he reminds him (Timothy) of where his Faith first lived, in his grandmother and mother: “… I recall your sincere faith that first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and that I am confident lives also in you.” St. Paul then encourages Timothy with the following words, “For this reason, I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord…” (2 Tim 1:5-8). At the time I am writing this, we are beginning to emerge from the COVID-19 restrictions, vaccines are becoming more widely available and, in fact, by the time this issue is printed the Seminary personnel and seminarians will have had the opportunity to be fully vaccinated. These are all good signs but, we are told, we are not out of the woods yet. What the next months will look like remains to be seen. The Very Rev. Anthony R. Brausch, Ph.D., President & Rector
For the Church, it is the same. There is hope we will be able to return to regular practice and full pews. But the lingering question is whether everyone will come back to the practice of their Faith. Have the months in which the obligation to attend mass has been dispensed left an indelible mark on people’s habits? St. Paul’s exhortation to “stir into flame the gift of God” is an encouragement to all of us to help each other grow in our attachment to and practice of our Faith. The articles in this edition speak of the way in which God prunes the vine for growth, returning to mass, and the Seminary’s work and new initiatives for outreach to parishes. The men and women who work and study here are very much aware that they have a real part to play in strengthening the Church’s “testimony to our Lord.” Also, I want to take this opportunity to thank again all those who have continued their support for Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology through this past, difficult year. Your prayers and donations continue to humble us and encourage us in the work the Lord has given us. Be assured of our continued prayers for you and your families. In Christ,
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:The Lord’s Image for Growth By The Very Rev. Anthony R. Brausch, Ph.D., President & Rector The Gospel according to St. John is so rich in theological detail and content that early on in the Churches of the East, St. John became known simply as, “The Theologian.” It is St. John who gives us the Wedding Feast at Cana, the Raising of Lazarus and the Washing of the Feet at the Last Supper as well as Thomas’ doubt, Mary Magdalen’s mistaking of the risen Christ for a gardener and our Lord’s three-fold question to St. Peter, “Do you love me?” It is also St. John who gives us the beautiful – and challenging – image of the vine and the branches. In chapter 15 of St. John’s Gospel, we are present for the Lord’s discourse at the Last Supper. He has already washed the feet of the disciples, and Judas has left the company and gone out into the “night.” Our Lord speaks to his friends and prepares them for what is to come. It is here then that we hear Him say: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch of mine that bears no fruit, he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. “You are already made clean by the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine and you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (Jn 15: 1-5).
“apart from me you can do nothing” – which is always unsettling to our sense of self-sufficiency. But the image of the Father pruning the vine and what this might really mean, didn’t register until I became more familiar with viticulture, the growing of vines and grapes. A few years back, with the help of one of the permanent deacon classes, we planted 96 grape vines on the Seminary property. The vines show up bare-rooted and about 15 inches tall. They may have four or five bud nodes on them. After planting and a little bit of growth you select a couple of buds and let them grow. The others are pruned off. The vines may grow to seven or eight feet that year, lots of leaves, lots of promise! The fall comes and then winter and then sometime during Lent you prune all of last year’s growth away, all the way back to 15 inches or so. You do this for the first three years; if you have the fortitude and patience for it. All this pruning is so the vine will develop the root system it needs to sustain good, plentiful grape clusters. What the vine really wants to do, is grow more vine, not produce good fruit that can be turned into wine. To produce the good fruit, the vine has to be pruned every year. To the untrained eye, the pruning looks severe. Every year roughly 60-70 percent of the vine is removed and then, throughout the growing season, there is more pruning.
The challenging tone of this passage was always there in the simple words,
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Every Christian then should expect some pruning, most likely more than we would choose. We should have a “theology of pruning,” an understanding of how the Lord works with those who are grafted on to him so that we don’t become discouraged. We also need to encourage one another in the practice of our Faith and pray for those who are struggling. And, in the Church as a whole, where others see decline and contraction in the Church, we hope for deeper roots. Where others may see an uncertain future and material diminishment, we see the Lord’s desire for good fruit. For this to be real, and not simply an image, we know we have to abide in Him.
By Rev. Ryan Ruiz, Dean, Mount St. Mary’s School of Theology
Rev. Ryan Ruiz distributing Holy Communion at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains.
At the conclusion of St. John’s Gospel, we are told that, not once, but twice, the disciples barricade themselves behind doors out of fear (Jn. 20:19, 26). Thus, not once, but twice, the Resurrected Lord has to break down these doors to offer the disciples the gift of His peace. It is only then, and with the subsequent descent of the Spirit (Acts 2-3), that the followers of Jesus are emboldened to witness to their Faith, and devote themselves “to the breaking of bread and the prayers” (Acts 2:42).
The path forward for us is no different from that taken by the original disciples: we must devote ourselves “to the breaking of the bread and the prayers.” Of course, we need to encourage one another in this regard. The Easter Season provides an opportunity to reclaim this essential feature of Christian life. The Church has always emphasized Easter as a time of rebirth. At Easter, new Christians receive their initiation and ‘cradle’ Catholics renew their Faith through the reception of Holy Communion. Although in many dioceses the dispensation from Sunday Mass attendance remains in effect, the Paschal Season could be a great time to return to in-person worship.
If we believe the Mass makes present the central event of our salvation – Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection – how could we not long to be personally present at it every Sunday?
The priest faculty at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology assist in parishes on the weekends and have seen a slow return in the numbers of the faithful at Sunday Mass, which is most likely the reality found in many other dioceses throughout the country. However, it is the hope that many more will return to in-person worship and “go up to the altar of God.”
Not much has changed. We, too, find ourselves behind doors, unable to engage in one of the most essential features of Christian discipleship: the public worship of God. The global pandemic has greatly impacted our lives: we have lost loved ones, experienced personal struggles and felt isolated and abandoned. Another way Catholics have been negatively affected by the events of this past year has been the unsettling experience of exile from the Eucharistic banquet.
Psalm 57 beautifully speaks of the heart’s readiness to sing the praises of God: “My heart is ready, O God. My heart is ready. I will sing, I will sing your praise.” Perhaps this could be our prayer as we encourage our family, friends and neighbors to do what the Christian heart is designed to do: to praise God in the mystery of salvation celebrated at the “breaking of the bread.”
There are certainly times in our lives when we are unable to participate in the Sacrifice of the Mass due to illness or distance. To that end, livestreamed Masses and other technological outreaches are a great service. However, nothing replaces one’s personal presence at the Eucharistic Sacrifice and receiving the Body and Blood of our Lord in Holy Communion. If we believe the Mass makes present the central event of our salvation – Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection – how could we not long to be personally present at it every Sunday?
The Paschal Season, Easter Season, Paschal Time and Eastertide, all refer to – April 4 through May 23 – the 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday when the Lord’s Resurrection and his sending forth of the Holy Spirit is celebrated.
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Developing a with St. Joseph St. Joseph, one of the most prominent people in the life of Jesus Christ, is also one of the most unassuming and unnoticed people in the Bible. And, while St. Joseph, the Patron of the Universal Church, may have been a quiet individual, he was profoundly strong in his faith and trust in God.
seminarians gained an awareness of St. Joseph in God’s plan for our salvation, an appreciation for his powerful intercession on our behalf and the ability to apply his virtues in their everyday lives.” Rev. Donald Calloway, Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception, who lives in Steubenville, Ohio, developed the consecration and wrote a book, Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father published in January 2020. He spent three years conducting research and compiling information from around the world about Jesus’ earthly father for the book. Fr. Calloway based the idea on St. Louis de Monfort’s process of consecration to Mary.
Pope Francis announced that 2021 is a special Year of St. Joseph in recognition of the difficult times through which the world and the Church are passing. As a result, the consecration to St. Joseph which has been a special devotion has rapidly grown in popularity.
St. Joseph was a man, a worker, a husband and a father. In a time when there’s so much disconnect and isolation, it’s a chance to develop a true friendship with St. Joseph and learn to imitate his virtues.
In his book, Fr. Calloway explains that consecration to St. Joseph means “you acknowledge that he is your spiritual father, and you want to be like him. To show it, you entrust yourself entirely to his paternal care so he can lovingly help you acquire his virtues and become holy... St. Joseph, in turn, will give those consecrated to him his loving attention, protection and guidance.”
At Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology (MTSM), our seminarians participated in their own consecration to St. Joseph from February 15 to March 19.
The consecration to St. Joseph takes 33 days and can be done individually or in a group. It is recommended to begin on a day that coincides with a liturgical feast of St. Joseph with your consecration date being the 33rd day of the program (see consecration chart on the following page). Each day’s readings and prayers followed by the Litany of St. Joseph take approximately 20 – 30 minutes.
The formation of priests is developed through four aspects: human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral. The spiritual aspect of formation “is directed at nourishing and sustaining communion with God and with our brothers and sisters, in the friendship of Jesus the Good Shepherd, and with and attitude of docility to the Holy Spirit. This intimate relationship forms the heart of the seminarian in that generous and sacrificial love that marks the beginning of pastoral charity” (Ratio Fundamentalis #101).
“St. Joseph was a man, a worker, a husband and a father,” explained Fr. Sunberg. “In a time when there’s so much disconnect and isolation, it’s a chance to develop a true friendship with St. Joseph and learn to imitate his virtues.”
As spiritual directors for the Seminary, Rev. Christopher Armstrong and Rev. David Sunberg developed the idea of praying the consecration to St. Joseph after the Holy Father’s announcement.
For additional information about the consecration to St. Joseph visit www.consecrationtostjoseph.org. Fr. Christopher Armstrong is Spiritual Director and Assistant Professor of Spiritual & Pastoral Theology at MTSM. Fr. David Sunberg is Spiritual Director and Formation Director of the Permanent Diaconate Program at MTSM.
“This was an opportunity for our future priests to deepen their faith and have a greater understanding of the ceaseless love of St. Joseph,” said Fr. Armstrong. “The hope is our
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Start Date
Feast Day
Consecration Day
December 22 January 1 February 15* March 30 April 11 July 20 September 30 November**
Feast of the Holy Spouses Presentation of the Lord Solemnity of St. Joseph St. Joseph the Worker Our Lady of Fatima Our Lady of Knock All Saints Holy Family
January 23 February 2 March 19 May 1 May 13 August 21 November 1 Late December
*During a leap year when February has 29 days, the starting date is February 16. **The Solemnity of the Holy Family generally falls on the first Sunday after Christmas. If Christmas is on a Sunday, be sure to check what day the bishops designate as the Solemnity of the Holy Family and begin your consecration 32 days before the consecration date (Day 33).
This mosaic of St. Joseph and the child Jesus is to the right of the main altar in the Chapel of St. Gregory the Great.
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Living a Journey of Dr. McGurgan is the Director of Lay Ecclesial Formation at MTSM, one of the first and most respected lay ecclesial formation programs in the United States. As participants in the program, students can earn a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry, a Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Ministry or a Certificate in Lay Ministry.
My entire experience at MTSM – from the classes and field work to my capstone project, has transformed me – I’m not the same person I was three years ago. Her eyes scanned the parish bulletin once more as she typed the numbers in her phone, ready to explore more about her faith in God and the Church. Catherine Kiley could not have imagined how much her life would change after she made that call.
The key requirements for the MTSM master’s program include academic coursework, mentoring, field education and a capstone project. “The field education requirement gives our students the opportunity to gain direct, practical experience in a ministerial setting,” explained Dr. McGurgan. “Our capstone project is designed for students to take the knowledge, experience and theories they have learned and apply them in a real-world situation. The capstone project is a significant undertaking and takes the place of an MA thesis in the Pastoral Ministry degree.”
Three years later, Kiley, a student at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology (MTSM), is on schedule to complete her master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry this month. “I saw the MTSM ad and made an appointment to meet with Dr. Susan McGurgan,” said Kiley. “I felt like this was an opportunity to learn more about serving God and to deepen my journey of faith.”
Kiley completed her field education at Kettering Medical Center in Dayton in 2019 where she spent time ministering to patients and their families. She has spent the past six months working on her capstone project and is in the process of implementing it at the Schneider House of Hope in Xenia. The Schneider House of Hope provides short-term housing and assistance for displaced families.
Evening Coordinator, Alexxus Beckwith, works with a young guest at the Schneider House of Hope.
“The purpose of my capstone project is to help families in their own faith journey,” explained Kiley. “If my program helps just one person grow closer to God, then it worked.”
I believe we all have a faith journey it’s just figuring out how God calls us to get off the sidelines and get involved. Based on the research and needs assessment Kiley conducted with guests and staff, the most common request was to provide something for families that was connected to scripture founded on three universal themes– hope, fear and forgiveness. Kiley collaborated with staff members to develop a one-hour program for guests of the Schneider House that focuses on one theme
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each week involving a scripture reading, an interactive song and a hands-on activity for families. “Working with the families and staff at the Schneider House taught me to really appreciate and understand ministry,” said Kiley. “I have a greater understanding of how God calls us to love and serve and live our journey of faith.” Kiley will work with staff members at the Schneider House of Hope to roll out one theme each week. The plan is to successfully implement the program so staff members can continue providing to guests on a regular basis moving forward.
Catherine Kiley
“My entire experience at MTSM– from the classes and field work to my capstone project – has transformed me, I’m not the same person I was three years ago,” revealed Kiley. “I believe we all have a faith journey it’s just figuring out how God calls us to get off the sidelines and get involved.”
Register today
& explore your Faith!
Whether you are interested in rigorous intellectual studies, formation for lay ministry or are just exploring topics of personal interest, your journey begins here. For information regarding our summer classes, contact the Registrar’s Office at 513.233.6118 or registration@athenaeum.edu.
SUMMER CLASSES BEING OFFERED IN-PERSON AND ONLINE THEOLOGY OF EVANGELIZATION, Dr. Alan Mostrom
Mondays & Wednesdays | 7-9:40 pm | May 17 - June 16 Synthesizing the history and theology of evangelization with the aim of developing concrete strategies for evangelization today.
CARMELITE MYSTICISM, Deacon Tracy Jamison
Tuesdays & Thursdays | 7-9:40 pm | May 18 - June 17 Exploring the spiritual life according to the mystical doctrines of St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross.
View catalog at www.athenaeum.edu/academics
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Formed for Discipleship and Mission Twelve men will be ordained this year from Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology (MTSM). They come from different dioceses, each with his own story, each with an understanding of how the Lord led him to this point. The differences in their backgrounds will inform their priesthood and enrich the Church. But their commonality in the Faith and their being sent by the Church for the Church is what informs their mission.
belief and practice of the Church. Early in the Church’s life, St. Paul hit upon this very point when he wrote to the believers in Corinth in reference to the Eucharist, “For what I received from the Lord I also delivered to you…” (1 Cor 11:23), and, in reference to the Church’s belief, “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day…” (1 Cor 15:3).
A seminarian’s time in formation is certainly directed towards growing in the human, intellectual, spiritual and pastoral virtues needed to be a good, effective priest. As one who is being sent or “missioned” to the present-day disciples of Jesus, he also knows that what he has to offer to others is the very thing he himself has been given: the
To be formed in discipleship for mission is to become responsible for handing on to others what one has been given through the Church. It is for this reason that those ordained deacons and priests must make the Profession of Faith (The Nicene Creed) and an Oath of Fidelity. The Oath reads:
I _______________________, in assuming the office of priest, promise that both in my words and in my conduct, I shall always preserve communion with the Catholic Church. I shall carry out with the greatest care and fidelity the duties incumbent on me toward both the universal Church and the particular Church in which, according to the provisions of the law, I have been called to exercise my service.
In fulfilling the charge entrusted to me in the name of the Church, I shall hold fast to the deposit of faith in its entirety, I shall faithfully hand it on and explain it, and I shall avoid any teachings opposed to that faith.
I shall follow and foster the common discipline of the whole Church, and I shall observe all ecclesiastical laws, especially those which are contained in the Code of Canon Law.
In Christian obedience, I shall unite myself with what is declared by the bishops as authentic doctors and teachers of the faith or established by them as those responsible for the governance of the Church; I shall also faithfully assist the diocesan bishops, in order that the apostolic activity exercised in the name and by mandate of the Church may be carried out in the communion of the same Church.
So help me God, and God’s holy Gospels, on which I place my hand.
Please pray for our newly ordained priests that they may faithfully fulfill their promises, hand on to others what they have received and strengthen the faith of those they serve.
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Rev. Mr. Albert Beltz
Rev. Mr. Michael Kapolka
Diocese of Toledo St. Joseph Maumee, Ohio Ordination Date: June 26
Archdiocese of Cincinnati St. Mary of the Assumption Springboro, Ohio Ordination Date: May 15
Rev. Mr. Paolo Degasperi
Rev. Mr. Angel Randolfo Lemus Arias
Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend Sant’Antonio di Padova Trento, Italy Ordination Date: June 5
Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph St. John LaLande Blue Springs, Missouri Ordination Date: May 29
Rev. Mr. Aaron Hess
Rev. Mr. Anthony Marcelli
Rev. Mr. Edward Hoffmann
Rev. Mr. Scott Morgan
Rev. Henry Hoffmann, C.O.
Rev. Mr. Elijah Puthoff
Rev. Mr. Louis Jacquemin
Rev. Brent Stull, C.O.
Archdiocese of Cincinnati St. Bernadette Amelia, Ohio Ordination Date: May 15
Archdiocese of Cincinnati St. Mary Philothea, Ohio Ordination Date: May 15
Archdiocese of Cincinnati Sacred Heart Cincinnati, Ohio Ordination Date: May 15
Archdiocese of Cincinnati Immaculate Heart of Mary Cincinnati, Ohio Ordination Date: May 15
Congregation of the Oratory Old St. Mary’s Cincinnati, Ohio Ordained: March 19
Archdiocese of Cincinnati St. Remy Russia, Ohio Ordination Date: May 15
Archdiocese of Cincinnati St. Ann Hamilton, Ohio Ordination Date: May 15
Congregation of the Oratory Old St. Mary’s Cincinnati, Ohio Ordained: March 19
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What isWhat YOURis YO CatholicCatholic Legacy? Le
“The current need for good and holy candidates for “The current need for good and h priesthood has become an urgent necessity. That’s for priesthood has become an urg why we have chosen to include MTSM in our estate That’s why we have chosen to incl planning supplemented with regular donations.
our estate planning supplemented donations. It is our hope that others may be persuaded to
recognize the importance of meeting current It is our hope that others may be p challenges facing the Church and to do what they can recognize the importance ofbymeeti to materially support the grace-filled mission given challenges facing the Church and its Founder.”
they can to materially support the mission given byNeumann its Founder.” St. John Parish - Paul & Mary Scales
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For more information about how you can include Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology in your estate plan contact:
For more information about how you can include Moun
Dr. Lori Rassati School of Theology in your estate plan contact: Vice President of Development & Relations Dr. Lori Rassati 513.233.6161 or lrassati@athenaeum.edu Vice President of D
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OUR egacy?
St. Gregory Legacy Society
Reconnecting and Sharing the Message: It’s Up to Us Mike Conaton’s passion for serving others starts with his personal mission: “Be a person for others, who doesn’t give in to himself.”
holy candidates gent necessity. a long-time donor and board lude As MTSM member of Mountin St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology d with regular (MTSM), Conaton’s guiding
principle is an inspiration to those who know him. “Mike is just an amazing human being,” said Dr. Lori Rassati, Vice President of Development & Relations at MTSM. “He’s a great example of what it means to be a true servant leader.”
persuaded to ing current to do what Conaton, a Marine veteran who attended Xavier University on a e grace-filled football scholarship, graduated in
1955 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and philosophy. He joined the Midland Company in 1961, was president from 1988 to 1998 and vice chairman for four years after that.
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…it’s incumbent upon us as a community to out and nt St. Mary’s reach Seminary &be there for each other.
Conaton is motivated by his Faith and his Jesuit upbringing. One of his Development & Relations concerns right now is reconnecting rassati@athenaeum.edu Catholics back to the Church and sharing the mission of MTSM. “The virus has created many challenges for priests and churches,
but it’s also allowed folks to enhance their Faith,” said Conaton. “I can go to Mass every morning on the television and that’s one way to stay connected. But it’s incumbent upon us as a community to reach out and be there for each other.” Conaton supports MTSM because he believes in the mission of forming men and women to faithfully follow Christ through vocations. Having been involved with financial and administrative committees at MTSM and as a board member, Conaton not only understands the importance of preparing seminarians to become future priests, but is keenly aware of the need to promote the Seminary in order to engage current and future supporters. That led to the establishment of the Conaton Vocations and Student Recruitment Endowment in 2009. This endowment supports recruitment and marketing initiatives. “It’s essential for people to know what the Seminary does and why it’s so important – to really market it. MTSM has a great message and we’re trying to share that,” said Conaton. “The Seminary is an integral part of the overarching Catholic community; without our priests, we lose that.” Conaton has spent a majority of his life serving the Catholic community, providing advice and guidance to corporate and charitable boards
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throughout his career and into retirement. He was Xavier University’s board chairman from 1985 to 2004 and served as the University’s interim president in 1990-91. Conaton continues to serve on XU’s board of trustees and St. Vincent de Paul’s advisory board of directors. Previously, he served on the boards for the Catholic Community Foundation and St. Xavier High School, as well as the board of directors of Key Bank, Society National Bank, Ameritrust Company and the Metropolitan Club, among others. As a testament to his community involvement and commitments, Conaton has received numerous accolades. In 2018, he received the Papal Honor of Order of St. Gregory the Great, the highest honor for a layperson. This honor was bestowed in recognition of Conaton’s service and support to the Church and community. He was also honored for his community involvement by the Society of St. Vincent de PaulCincinnati at their 2017 “Celebration of Service” dinner. XU opened The Conaton Learning Center in 2009, and he was awarded both an honorary doctorate and the Paul L. O’Connor Leadership Award for his contributions to the University. Conaton continues to be active in the Catholic community and at Our Lord Christ the King parish where he and his wife, Nancy, are members.
We All Have a The path to priesthood begins with receiving the call to serve God. And responding to this call is not a one-time event; it unfolds continuously. Pastoral Internships and summer assignments are some of those experiences along the way. Like most internships and assignments, being involved with hands-on training is extremely valuable when it comes to vocations. For seminarians, the internships, which take place between Theology II and III, along with annual summer assignments, help solidify the vocational calling. “
The Internship Program and summer assignments assist seminarians by providing them with practical experience of what parish life is really like with its unique dynamics and various personalities. “There’s the opportunity to be mentored by your pastor, to follow him to anointings and burials, to observe him leading meetings, to hear him preach,” said Stephens. “I’ve had moments where I’ve thought, ‘Yeah, those years of classes and listening to Catholic Answers have in fact paid off!’ The internship is a real opportunity to be a vessel for the Lord.”
“People want a priest who is relatable, approachable and available, who spends time with parishioners, who can give good answers to tough questions, and who won’t water down the Church’s teachings or liturgical celebrations,” said Jeff Stephens MTSM third-year seminarian from St. Susanna Parish in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. “I’ve grown certain of the idea that it’s not doing and achieving, but being with others that brings the deepest fulfillment and for me, this internship is further confirmation from God that this is the right path.”
Having the chance to be involved in the day-to-day responsibilities and decisions of a parish helps seminarians recognize what skills they need to work on when they return to continue with their formation.
Stephens is currently completing an internship at St. Patrick Church in Troy and Church of the Transfiguration in West Milton.
“Being in the parish helps the seminarian translate his Seminary preparations into the concrete life of the Church,” said Darren Balkey, MTSM third-year seminarian from Sacred Heart Parish in Salisbury, North Carolina in the Diocese of Charlotte. “When I am studying, I try to envision parishioners whom I will serve in my priestly ministry. Likewise, during summer assignments, parishioners bring out questions that encourage me to redouble my efforts when I return for the semester and seek answers for their questions.”
All Archdiocese of Cincinnati and Diocese of Toledo seminarians spend an academic year completing an internship. In addition, seminarians from all sending dioceses and orders receive summer assignments. Both programs provide seminarians with experience in parish life and ministry and give them the opportunity to observe, learn, grow and prepare. Spending time immersed in a parish enables seminarians to apply the academic and experiential teaching they have already received.
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“The Internship Program and summer assignments assist seminarians by providing them with practical experience of what parish life is really like with its unique dynamics and various personalities,” said Rev. Christopher Geiger, MTSM’s Director of Apostolic Works & Internship Program. “Having the chance to be involved in the day-to-day responsibilities and decisions of a parish helps seminarians recognize what skills they need to work on when they return to continue with their formation.”
Rev. Matt Gerlach (left) and MTSM Seminarian Leonardo Morales-Salas at Holy Thursday Mass, St. Anne’s, Diocese of Tulsa.
Rev. Matt Gerlach, pastor at St. Anne Catholic Church in the Diocese of Tulsa, explains, “I have always seen summer assignments as extensions of formation that happens in the Seminary. The seminarians can learn all they can behind a desk and in a classroom, but if they can’t apply what they’re learning to a living, breathing community, it’s fairly useless.” “In the Seminary we study the sacraments and when we’re on summer assignment we’re able to implement what we’ve learned,” said Leonardo Morales-Salas, MTSM third-year seminarian from St. Anne Parish in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma in the Diocese of Tulsa. “Thanks to my summer assignments, my relationship with God is even stronger, and I know I’m following His plan for me.”
Bill and Ruth Groff enjoying a meal with Jeff Stephens.
“I’ve seen how important family life is in the context of parish life. Families have the potential to inject so much life into a parish and their communities,” explained Stephens. “I’ve been so edified by these families and am convinced of the value of investing in them. I would encourage all families to be active in their parishes; families have so much to offer!”
I’ve seen how important family life is in the context of parish life. Families have the potential to inject so much life into a parish and their communities. It’s not only the pastor who serves as a mentor for seminarians on internship - families, parishioners and the community play a key role. Starting with the Holy Family, the Church has affirmed that family and community are the building blocks of society. And families are the basic building blocks in parishes, and parishes help build communities.
During my internship, I’ve grown steadfast in these convictions: the world needs the Church because the Church offers it Christ,” he said. “One way or another, I have a part to play in this, we all do. Whether in prayer or evangelization, every day presents a new opportunity to run for the Lord. Run so as to win the race” (1 Cor 9:24).
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Expanding Mission Community our
into the
Last summer, Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology (MTSM) restructured into two divisions, the Seminary and School of Theology. This new administrative structure simplified and streamlined our operations allowing us to provide new offerings that continue to support those who want to enrich their faith, deepen their effectiveness as pastoral leaders and engage in transformative service to the Church and the people of God. “This enables us to extend our mission beyond the classroom and into the larger community,” said Dr. Susan McGurgan, Director of Lay Ecclesial Formation at MTSM. “Our new structure is specifically designed to support, refine and multiply the gifts of staff members, teachers and volunteers in the areas of religious education, faith formation, administration and mission outreach.” MTSM’s Lay Ecclesial Formation program has developed practical workshops, spiritual retreats, missions and formation
days to build knowledge, skills and faith. In addition, Dr. McGurgan is reaching out to parish leaders to customize programs to meet specific needs. These offerings will be available virtually and in-person, at parishes, schools, retreat centers and on the MTSM campus. “This is another way for MTSM to fulfill our mission of forming men and women to follow Christ and serve others,” said Dr. McGurgan. “We hope to meet the current needs of people in our communities by asking, ‘What would help you in your mission?’ and then working collaboratively to address those needs.”
New Programs Available This Fall
“We realize the needs of the Church continue to grow and develop as She tries to engage a world that is in constant flux,” explained Rev. Ryan Ruiz, Dean of the School of Theology at MTSM. “It is our hope that the initiatives of the School of Theology might be a resource for parishes and dioceses as they strive to build up the Body of Christ in their particular communities.”
Two new certificate programs will be available this fall at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology. The Certificate in Catholic Theology consists of two years of course work designed to introduce students to the scriptural and theological foundations of the Catholic faith. The Graduate Certificate in Catholic Theology offers similar course work at a more advanced level and can help prepare students for later pursuit of a full master’s degree.
If you would like to learn more, call 513.233.6127 or email smcgurgan@athenaeum.edu.
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Deacon Jamison began his career at MTSM in 2006 as a lecturer in philosophy. Five years later he was promoted to a full time assistant professor and in 2017 was promoted to associate professor.
Dr. David Foster Receives Excellence in Teaching Award
“Deacon Jamison is one of the most challenging professors I have ever had,” said Marty Arlinghaus, 2017 graduate of MTSM. “I learned not only content from him, but how to think and connect what I learned to the practice of my Faith.”
David R. Foster, Ph.D., professor of philosophy, is the recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award from Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology (MTSM).
In reflecting on his role as professor, Deacon Jamison explains, “It seems like God prepared me to teach here at the Seminary and gave me the gifts I needed to do the job with a reasonable level of competence. Becoming a full professor now feels like yet another sign from God that I am in fact doing what he wants me to be doing, and that I should keep doing it and try to do it better each year.”
Each year MTSM recognizes a professor who has made a significant contribution to learning and scholarship. Dr. Foster was chosen as the recipient of the award based on feedback from colleagues and students. His current courses include Ancient Philosophy, Medieval Philosophy, Natural Theology and Anthropology.
Deacon Jamison currently teaches Logic, Epistemology, Metaphysics, Natural Philosophy and Introduction to Ethics. He is scheduled to teach a course in Carmelite Mysticism this summer.
“In his approach to teaching, Dr. Foster promotes an understanding of faith and reason, by which the two are in harmony, never opposed,” explained Rev. David Endres, Dean of Mount St. Mary’s Seminary. “He helps our students immerse themselves in the Catholic philosophical tradition and begins to ask – and start to answer – the most fundamental questions of life.”
He received his Bachelor of Arts from Cincinnati Christian University and his Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Cincinnati. Deacon Jamison and his wife Joyce reside in Monfort Heights. He serves the Church as a permanent deacon and secular Carmelite and is an active member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Price Hill.
Dr. Foster joined the MTSM faculty in 2010 as an associate professor of philosophy. He became a full professor in 2016. Before coming to the Seminary, Dr. Foster taught at Seton Hall University. Dr. Foster received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Notre Dame, his Bachelor of Sacred Theology from the Dominican House of Studies in Washington D.C. and his Doctorate in Philosophy from the Catholic University of America.
Deacon Tracy Jamison Named Full Professor Deacon Tracy Jamison, Ph.D. was recently promoted to full professor at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology (MTSM) as a result of his consistent commitment to teaching and scholarship.
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Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology offers condolences on the passing of the following alumni, benefactors and friends from October 1, 2020 - March 15, 2021 Ms. Mary Lou Ackerman • 1/26/2021 Rev. James Bates • 3/3/2021 Rev. Carl Birarelli • 2/12/2021 Mrs. Alberta Bretnitz • 10/6/2020 Rev. Matthew Gamber, SJ • 10/16/2020 Deacon Ralph Gutman • 12/5/2020 Mrs. Jane Klare • 2/8/2021 Rev. Thomas Leyland • 12/4/2020 Mrs. Donna Meakin • 1/20/2021
Rev. Cornelius Murray • 11/1/2020 Msgr. Robert Noon • 10/15/2020 Deacon Gerard Sasson • 10/3/2020 Mr. Charles Schirmer • 11/15/2020 Rev. Edward Trippel • 2/7/2021 Mr. David Weber • 12/8/2020 Mr. Jerry Weiper • 11/7/2020 Rev. John Wessling • 2/15/2021 Rev. John White • 11/2/2020
Did You Know? Facts About The Eugene M. Maly Memorial Library Three of the current most popular titles requested at the Eugene M. Maly Memorial Library: · The Anti-Mary Exposed: Rescuing the Culture from Toxic Femininity, Carrie Gress · Bible Basics for Catholics: A New Picture of Salvation History, John Bergsma · Searching for and Maintaining Peace: A Small Treatise on Peace of Heart, Jacques Philippe
The oldest item in the Eugene M. Maly Memorial Library collection, Peter Lombard’s Four Books of Sentences, dates from circa 1250. It is a Franciscan manuscript on vellum. The library receives requests for materials from local, regional, national and international institutions including: Cincinnati Public Library, University of Dayton, Harvard University, New York Public Library, Franciscan University and Hebrew University of Jerusalem, to name a few. The Eugene M. Maly Memorial Library serves seminarians, lay students, faculty and staff of MTSM, local clergy and parishioners, independent scholars and the general public. The general hours of operation are 8 am to 4:30 pm. However, due to COVID-19 limitations, please contact the library at 513.233.6136 or circ@athenaeum.edu with questions or to make an appointment.
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Congratulations to the 12 seminarians from Mount St. Mary’s Seminary & School of Theology who will be ordained this summer.
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