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t h e m a g a z i n e o f C at h o l i c m i s s i o n e r s t o r u r a l A m e r i c a

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Glenmary

Group Volunteer Program Making a difference through

Outreach & Service

‘God

Fathe Never L bring r Franco eaves’ priso s the Chuis Pellissie ners, r r detai ch to nees

Glenmary Home Missioners Founded by Father William Howard Bishop in 1939, this Catholic society of priests and brothers, along with numerous coworkers, establishes the Catholic Church in smalltown and rural America. Glenmary is the only religious community devoted exclusively to serving the spiritually and materially poor in the rural U.S. home missions. Today, supported entirely through freewill offerings, it staffs missions and ministries throughout Appalachia and the South.

Glenmary missioners serve in areas where less than three percent of the population is Catholic, a significant percentage have no church affiliation and the Father William poverty rate is almost twice the national average. Glenmary is Howard Bishop known for deeply respecting the Glenmary Founder many cultures encountered in the home missions—Appalachian, Native American, African American and Latino among others. Its missionary activity includes building Catholic communities, fostering ecumenical cooperation, evangelizing the unchurched, social outreach and working for justice.

Glenmary Challenge This quarterly magazine has three goals: to educate Catholics about the U.S. home missions, to motivate young men to consider Glenmary priesthood or brotherhood, and to invite all Catholics to respond to their baptismal call to be missionary by partnering with Glenmary as financial contributors, prayer partners, professional coworkers and/or volunteers.

Glenmary Challenge is sent to all donors, to U.S. diocesan clergy and to anyone who requests it. (To begin receiving issues, use the contact information below.)

Publisher: Father Chet Artysiewicz Editor: Jean Bach Assistant Editor: Dale Hanson Art Director: Tricia Sarvak Staff Writers: Margaret Gabriel, Father John S. Rausch Planning-Review Board: Father Gus Guppenberger, Brother Jack Henn, Brother Curt Kedley, Kathy O’Brien, Susan Sweet, Father Don Tranel

Glenmary Home Missioners P.O. Box 465618 • Cincinnati, OH 45246-5618 513-874-8900 • 800-935-0975 www.glenmary.org • info@glenmary.org © 2015, Glenmary Home Missioners. Reprint permission granted upon request.

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The place peace came and stayed FROM THE EDITOR / Jean Bach

F

ather Jerry Dorn’s face lit up when he talked about Glenmary’s volunteer program and the Glenmary Farm in Lewis County, Ky. And his normally animated personality would seemingly grow more animated as he laughed and told stories about his time at the Farm and shared thoughts about the thousands of volunteers he met there.

Father Jerry’s early years as a missioner were spent working as a vocation counselor and serving at the Farm in the 1970s and ‘80s.

But even when he answered the call to move on, he stayed connected to the Farm and returned to the “place peace came and stayed” as often as he could.

Father Jerry died of a heart attack (page 14) on Nov. 10 of last year, just 12 days before a gathering to mark the end of the volunteer program at the Glenmary Farm was held. He was to serve as presider at the outdoor Mass that was part of the celebration.

The November event brought together former Glenmary Farm volunteers and staff, Glenmarians, coworkers and local folks to reminisce, reconnect and celebrate their often life-changing experiences connected with the volunteer program. Ultimately, it also became an opportunity Jean Bach to remember Father Jerry at the jbach@glenmary.org place he loved the most.

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he Glenmary Group Volunteer Program is continuing (page 9) at Toppa Joppa, a site in Grainger County, Tenn. High school and college-aged youth (and new to the Tennessee site, intergenerational parish groups) continue to be invited to experience that to which Father Jerry called volunteers more than 40 years ago: Leave behind all the trappings of life and come to the home missions, to offer “unconditional service to the rural people we came to  serve. Your life will never be the same.” about the cover: Volunteers from McNicholas High School in Cincinnati help shingle a roof in Grainger County, Tenn., during their week of service at Toppa Joppa in September 2014. w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F C AT H O L I C M I S S I O N E R S T O R U R A L A M E R I C A

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Vo l u m e 7 8 / N u m b e r 1

Cover Story

9 photo / stephanie a. richer

Continuing the Legacy of Outreach and Service

Glenmary’s Group Volunteer Program, begun at the Glenmary Farm in Kentucky more than 40 years ago and now located in East Tennessee, continues to impact volunteers and those served.

Feature Story

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‘God Never Leaves’

Father Francois Pellissier’s ministry focuses on “bringing the Church” to the incarcerated men at two Georgia state prisons and an immigration detention center.

Incarcerated, Page 15

Departments & columns

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From the President / Father Chet Artysiewicz

Pope calls all Catholics to be “in a permanent state of mission” in The Joy of the Gospel.

Glenmary News & Notes

Iowa adopters visit Tenn. mission; Easter cards available; missioners tackle environmental, justice issues.

Iowa adopters, Page 5

Then & Now

The Diocese of Owensboro, Ky., the site of Glenmary’s first mission, holds a special place in society history.

Remembrance

Father Jerry Dorn’s life is remembered by fellow Minnesotan Father Aaron Wessman as a “work of art.”

Easter cards, Page 6

Partner in Mission

Ruth Holtel—a self-described “Glenmary person”—is a fellow missionary and longtime supporter.

Final Words / from our readers

Sharing comments about the Glenmary Farm celebration and the Winter 2014 Glenmary Challenge.

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Ruth Holtel, Page 17

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from the president / Father Chet Artysiewicz

Experience the joy of the Gospel 2013 apostolic exhortation ‘hits us between the eyes with its honesty and clarity’

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ope Francis’ apostolic exhortation, The Joy of the Gospel (Evangelii Gaudium), has evoked a tremendous response since its release in 2013. It is frequently quoted and serves as the topic for various discussion groups. What a wonderful instrument to kindle—or rekindle—an enthusiasm for our faith.

Often a simple sentence from the document initiates a rich dialog. For example: “Our falling short of perfection should be no excuse; on the contrary, mission is a constant stimulus not to remain mired in mediocrity but to continue growing.” (Chapter 3, #121) That observation provides much food for thoughtful reflection and may cause us to ask, “Have I settled for that mediocre approach?” It seems God is constantly inviting us to more.

We in Glenmary love this document for many reasons, not the least of which is the constant reference to the Church as “missionary.” In Chapter 1 (#25), Pope Francis writes, “Mere administration can no longer be enough.

Throughout the world, let us be ‘permanently in a state of mission.’’’ (The Fifth General Conference of the Bishops of Latin America and the Caribbean)

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recently participated in a group discussing joy, and the discussion led me to reflect on profound: Pope Francis chal- what it is in Jesus’ lenges Catholics to actively message that gives share the greatest gift they pos- me joy. sess—the Catholic faith—in his The first thing that 2013 apostolic exhortation. came to mind was the joy we experience when we celebrate the Resurrection—the belief that there is more than just this world. Baptized into Christ, we possess the joy that says, “Death, 4

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you may be leading for a time, but you’re not going to win. Christ has and so shall I.”

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s a newly ordained priest, I served with Father John Garvey. He used to say that “what is most personal is also most universal.” A person who falls in love might think that no one else could possibly feel the same way, and yet that person’s euphoria is far from unique.

The same dynamic, no doubt, is true on the other side of the spectrum in grief. I suspect the common human experience is the desire to visit or speak once more to those who have preceded us in death. The conversation Father Chet would not have to be about any- Artysiewicz thing profound—for example, cartysiewicz@glenmary.org “Did the home team win? How’s the garden doing? When is the family reunion?” We long for more time with those we love. Would it not be joyful to have that opportunity again? As the saying goes, there are no more goodbyes in heaven.

And that is what the Gospel, which is such a purveyor of joy, proclaims. Indeed, the Gospel message says that whatever our circumstances, this faith of ours provides a deeper joy. The writer Louis Evely described joy as “sorrow overcome.” Through the tears of loss we express our conviction in Jesus’ words: “I am the Resurrection.”

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e have been blessed with a profound document in The Joy of the Gospel, one that hits us between the eyes with its honesty and clarity. It is as though Pope Francis is saying to us, “We have the greatest ‘product’ in the world; now get out there and tell the world about it!”

As you see new life burgeoning around you this spring, let the joy of the Gospel touch you with the realization that new life is our destiny. Thank you for all you do that enables us to serve in the mission regions of our country.

Happy Easter season to you and your family.  Jesus Christ is risen today! ALLELUIA! w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

Glenmary

Adopters get hands-on experience during visit

news &notes photo / courtesy blessed trinity cluster

a d o p t - a - M i ss i o n

Iowa parishioners gain better understanding of needs, how to help [tennessee] In late summer 2014, the Blessed Trinity four-parish cluster in eastern Iowa and Glenmary’s Rutledge, Tenn., mission took another step in their journey as sister parishes, when eight parishioners and their pastor traveled to the mission area for a one-week service trip.

The Iowa cluster adopted St. John Paul II mission in Grainger County in 2013 through Glenmary’s Adopt-AMission Program. This program matches a parish with a mission in a relationship involving mutual prayer, financial assistance, communication, and often an exchange of visits.

The cluster has made additional donations to the mission, county residents, Glenmary’s Group Volunteer Program (located in Grainger County), and Glenmary in general—including liturgical supplies, school supplies, children’s books, baby layette sets, tools, building supplies and more. w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

missionary call: A group from Blessed Trinity

four-parish cluster (Iowa) visited Rutledge, Tenn., and its adopted mission for a week of service and learning. The group included pastor Father Joe Schneider (front row, third from left).

But in early 2014, cluster parishioners and pastor Father Joe Schneider began discussing and praying about a service trip to Grainger County.

“We have a responsibility to be involved in the Church’s missionary work,” says Father Schneider. “Two trip goals were to gain a better understanding of mission needs, and to help meet those needs through missionary service.”

Most cluster volunteers spent the equivalent of two days at the mission’s small storefront space—cleaning the area and its contents as well as painting the walls.

The group also spent

time working at the area’s large ecumenical food pantry and visiting Kingswood, a Christian residential home for atrisk children and youth.

Brother Craig Digmann also led a tour of the mission counties (Grainger and Union).

“I help visitors to experience what we do,” Brother Craig says, “and to gain insight into people’s lives and feelings about having missioners serving here.”

Father Schneider says the group “got a real sense of the challenges people in the area face. I think the Glenmary staff are very good at their work and at reaching out to people.”

The cluster group finished work on the storefront space before celebrating a final Mass with missioners and mission members.

Both Father Steve Pawelk, pastor of the missions in Grainger and Union counties, and Brother Craig say they’re very grateful for “Blessed Trinity parishioners’ hard work, generosity, openness and willingness to serve.”

For More Information: Contact Jodi Mott at jmott@glenmary.org or 800-935-0975 to learn more about the Adopt-AMission Program.

follow

the leader in home mission ministry Glenmary Home Missioners

Spring 2015

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@GlenmaryMission

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glenmary

news & notes

continued

donor services

Order your Easter cards today!

Send greetings to family, friends using one-of-a-kind cards [ohio] As the Easter season approaches, Glenmary is once again making available greeting cards featuring an original work by California artist Jennifer Smith Greene.

Those who receive the cards will be remembered in Glenmary’s annual Easter novena.

Cards, in packs of five, are

free upon request, although a donation of $5 will help cover printing and mailing costs.

“We’re happy to make these beautiful cards available to all those who want to share with friends and family the joy and blessings of new life we celebrate at Easter,” says Father Don Tranel, Glenmary’s development director.

For more information: Contact Glenmary’s Donor Services department by calling 800-935-0975 or by emailing donorservices@glenmary.org.

Plan For Your Financial

Future and Help Build Up the Catholic Church in Rural America

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Glenmary Gift Annuity can be established with a gift of cash or securities. The benefits of an annuity are many, including providing you income for life and helping ensure that Glenmary missioners are present to share the sacraments and the gifts of the Church with those living in Mission Land, USA.

Benefits include:

• A significant reduction of • •

capital gains, if funded with securities A partially tax-free income A charitable deduction

For more information about a Glenmary Gift Annuity, contact: Susan Lambert, Planned Giving Officer 800-935-0975 slambert@glenmary.org

•

Calculations are not meant to give legal or accounting advice. A donor should seek the guidance of an estate and/or tax professional to understand the consequences of a gift. All information is strictly confidential. Glenmary gift annuities are not issued in Hawaii or Alabama.

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Around the Missions  Pat McEntee, former associate director of Glenmary’s Vocation Office, resigned in early December for health reasons. He held the position for over six years. Glenmary anticipates hiring a vocation counselor to assist vocation director Brother David Henley in his ministry, working to promote Glenmary’s missionary priesthood and brotherhood as viable, life-giving ways to serve.  Frank Lesko, director of Glenmary’s Catholic-Evangelical relations ministry, is maintaining a blog to share stories, anecdotes and observations about ecumenism and other related topics. His Traveling Ecumenist blog can be found at travelingecumenist.blogspot.com.

He also maintains a Facebook page to help promote his ecumenical ministry: Together in Mission: Evangelicals and Catholics.  Special recognition was given to Glenmary Home Missioners on its 75th anniversary by the Ohio House of Representatives. In part, the citation reads: “Celebration of this prestigious milestone is a fitting tribute to Glenmary Home Missioners, for it has achieved a remarkable record of service throughout the past seven-and-a-half decades.

Founded by Father William Howard Bishop in 1939, this fine endeavor has operated missions and ministries in counties throughout Appalachia and the Southern United States, and its success is a justifiable source of pride and an outstanding reflection not only on the organization itself, but also on its hard-working staff and volunteers and on the community.”  Glenmary’s two novices completed their mission assignments in January and have returned to Cincinnati to complete their novitiate year and prepare to take their First Oaths this summer.

Charles Aketch and Richard Toboso served with Glenmary missioners in Maynardville and Lafayette, Tenn., respectively. w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

photo / dale hanson

climate change: Father John Rausch (second from left) and Father Neil Pezzulo (second

from right) joined a panel discussion on climate change that took place at Xavier University in Cincinnati on Jan. 22.

P r o t e ct i ng g o d ’ s c r e a t i o n

‘Climate Conversation’ hosted by Ohio interfaith group Two Glenmarians participate in panel discussion on climate change and faith-based response [ o h i o ] Glenmary Fathers Neil Pezzulo and John Rausch served as panel members for a “Climate Conversation,” a Jan. 22 program on climate change sponsored by Ohio Interfaith Power and Light (OhIPL) and held simultaneously in Cincinnati and four other Ohio cities.

OhIPL—the Ohio affiliate of the national IPL network—is a group of volunteers and staff who help Ohio faith communities “to be part of a faithful response to the devastating effects of climate change (and) unite in stewardship of God’s creation.”

Two experts spoke to the gatherings—live in one city and via live video feed in four others—to start the evening.

Dr. Joel Barker, a research scientist at Ohio State University’s Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, provided evidence of the climate-changing effects of carbon emissions w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

globally and in Ohio.

Ted Ford, president/CEO of Ohio Advanced Energy Economy, asked why the United States is stuck in a carbon economy.

“Our goal has to be the collective interest. Climate change has been verified. Energy alternatives are proven. We have to communicate our wishes to policymakers. Faith communities are having a big impact on this discourse.”

In the ensuing conversation in Cincinnati, a moderator and panel members led the discussion with the audience.

Father Neil, Glenmary first vice president and member of Glenmary’s environmental committee, emphasized that the people most affected by climate change are the poor and vulnerable, including those in rural areas who depend more on the land for survival. “As people of faith,” he said, “we have to stand up for all of them.”

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Father John—whose longtime ministry is Appalachian justice education—said what Ford referred to is a crisis in values.

“Thomas Aquinas talked about the common good; we have to treat each other as brothers and sisters. And Christian teaching prior to the modern era stressed respect for God’s ownership of creation.”

Both Glenmarians made the point that a healthy environment is pro-life and will also result in healthier people, now and in the future.

On disagreements about climate change among people of faith, Father Neil said that “we’re connected regardless of our faith traditions. We need to keep talking about it.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION: To learn more about IPL affiliates across the country, visit www.interfaithpowerandlight.org. 

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news & notes

s o c i a l j u st i c e

Standing with people in need Social, economic issues frame longtime ministry

continued

photo / Matt Roth/The New York Times/Redux

glenmary

[virginia] Father Les Schmidt Catholic Committee describes his regional worker of Appalachia (CCA) ministry as “responding to jus- and helped revitalize tice issues as they emerge. Jesus the Catholic Comcame to bring justice, and as one mittee of the South of his disciples that’s my respon- (CCS); both have been invaluable consibility, too.”

In the 1960s, as associate pas- tributors in social tor of Appalachian missions, he justice efforts.

In 1975 and 1995, bishops’ liaison: Father Les Schmidt saw the unjust conditions people faced in these impoverished ar- he played a signifi- prepares for a lunch meeting with six Southeas. He soon felt called to take on cant role in develop- ern bishops during the United States Confering two CCA-driven ence of Catholic Bishops’ 2014 Fall General social justice ministry.

“I began to realize most sig- pastoral letters from Assembly in Baltimore. nificant decisions affecting them the Appalachian were made by outside powers,” bishops—This Land says Father Les. “I knew I need- Is Home to Me and At Home in make this project happen. He ed to stand with people to help the Web of Life. He later helped and others are gathering more develop pastoral letters from the than 1,000 “listenings” (stories) them change their situations.”

Over the years Father Les Southern bishops: Voices and directly from Appalachia resihas assisted with a wide range Choices on the poultry industry, dents living on the margins and of issues such as workers’ rights and an eight-part series on the those who work with them. He serves as a consultant on comple(e.g., coal-miner safety and criminal justice system.

Now in 2015, he is collabo- tion/publication of the pastoral; mill-worker unionization), immigration reform, mountaintop rating on the development of a creation of a one-page version removal and criminal justice. In third CCA-coordinated pastoral of the letter for distribution by addition, he helped organize the letter with the working title, The churches and advocacy groups; Is God calling you to a religious vocation?

People’s Pasto- and development of an off-offral. “It will lift Broadway stage version at the Can you see yourself as a missioner? up the voices Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Va. As bishops’ liaison for CCS he Have you considered Glenmary of the people— is also responsible for identifying ‘the magistepriesthood or brotherhood? rium of the and presenting to the Southern poor’—rather bishops—for possible action— than coming the key social justice challenges from the Cath- faced by CCS members. Father if home mission ministry is for you! olic bishops,” Les helps prepare an annual field says Father Les. report for those bishops to pres“ T he whole ent to the United States Conferemphasis is ence of Catholic Bishops memGlenmary invites ‘the last shall bership. men ages 18-46 He emphasizes that bishops’ be first.’ It’s beto attend an ing done in co- and others’ respect for Glenupcoming Come & See event It’s a joyful—and joy-filled—life to live. operation with mary’s work always enhances in our home all the major his credibility. “Through the mission counties. religious bodies years, Glenmary has given me Contact Glenmary’s Vocation Office for more information: in Appalachia.” the mandate and support I need vocation@glenmary.org • www.glenmary.org/vocationinfo His job is to to perform my ministry.”

&

Come See

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cover story

Continuing the legacy of

outreach & Service A new era has begun for the Glenmary Group Volunteer Program. But the goals of the program remain: helping youth to connect more deeply with God, to find Christ in others, and to find joy in putting themselves and their needs second to those they serve.

By Jean Bach

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photo / tricia sarvak

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n a chilly, damp late November afternoon, more than 120 people gathered at the Glenmary Farm in Vanceburg, Ky., to say farewell. The site that served as one of two locations for Glenmary’s Group Volunteer Program hosted its last volunteer groups in December 2014.

The event brought together former volunteers, Farm managers, Glenmarians and coworkers—as well as local folks whose lives have been impacted by the more than 20,000 volunteers who have passed through Vanceburg over the years.

Those in attendance enjoyed swapping stories, listening to a variety of speakers, joining in a Mass celebrated by Glenmary president Father Chet Artysiewicz, and sharing a light supper.

The decision to close the Glenmary Farm site was made by Glenmary’s leadership after Holy Redeemer mission, also located in Vanceburg, was returned to the pastoral care of the Diocese of Covington in 2013.

“It’s important that our volunteer program be integrated with a Glenmary mission community and be part of the missionary outreach in a county,”

 reconnecting: More than 10,000 volunteers have visited with Edith “Wild Woman” Smith (left) at her farm while serving at the Glenmary Farm. Wild Woman was at the November celebration of the Farm, where she reconnected with former volunteers like Kim Leach—the first female Farm manager—and her family.

Father Chet explains.

Leadership also made the decision in 2013 to start a new volunteer site in one of Glenmary’s newest mission areas in East Tennessee. Nicknamed “Toppa Joppa,” the nine-acre site is located in Grainger County outside

of Rutledge, on Joppa Mountain.

Rutledge is home to St. John Paul II mission.

The service-centered mission experience in Tennessee is patterned after the Farm experience. Volunteers are immersed in local culture by attending 

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photos / stephanie a. richer

‘The volunteers often find they’ve learned more about themselves and how they want to live their lives.’

short-term projects: Students from McNicholas High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, traveled to Tennessee last September and spent a week at Toppa Joppa serving those living in Grainger and Union counties. One of the tasks the volunteers tackled was taking down a tree and removing the limbs.

Mass at the Glenmary mis- vidual high school and college-

sions, visiting other churches and enjoying community events in the evenings.

Volunteers also take part in outreach ministries each day that include helping staff four community food pantries and a summer camp for the children of migrant workers, helping with home renovation and repair, spending time with children living at a residential group home, and taking part in short-term projects as needed.

“We hope that those who serve with our volunteer program, no matter its location, are able to put their faith into practice and leave the program as better Christian people because of their experience,” Father Chet says.

acy that the Farm has left, Joe is confident volunteers who come to Tennessee will have transformative experiences.

“Many volunteers find their service with Glenmary leads them to spend a week or month or more of service elsewhere,” Joe says. “And their experience may also lead them to long-term commitments of service in the Church and community or to professions that allow them to serve the least among us.”

One of the hallmarks of the volunteer program is the opportunity for volunteers to leave behind the complexity of their lives and focus on simple living. For many youth, their volunteer time with Glenmary is the first time in their lives when technology isn’t readily available.

“This gives them time to simplify their lives and concentrate on relating to other people,” Joe explains. Through helping and learning about others, the volunteers often find they’ve learned more about themselves and how they want to live their lives.

The Glenmarians that the volunteers meet during their time of service (in the past at the Farm and today at Toppa Joppa) are key to this learning.

“Having a Glenmary mission—in Tennessee we have

lenmary’s volunteer program has gone through several incarnations in its years of existence. It began as a vocation discernment program for indi-

aged men in 1971. Eventually, groups from colleges and high schools began taking part in the program, helping it expand and grow into the Glenmary Group Volunteer Program.

According to Joe Grosek, who served as a long-term Farm manager for two years and has served as director of the volunteer program since 2003, the program strives to “connect young people with God, help them find learning skills: Brother Joe Steen, who is Christ in others, and a master carpenter, helps Tennessee volunteach them to serve teers learn the building and construction skills others first and put needed to work on local houses. themselves second.

“It’s important to expose young people to mission needs right here in our own country and to invite them to join Glenmary in responding to those needs.”

While it’s difficult to move on from the leg-

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two—accessible to the volunteers is very important,” Joe says.

“The volunteers see members of the mission team—Father Steve Pawelk, Brother Craig Digmann and Brother Joe Steen—in their ministry settings and see them relate to the folks. That makes a huge impact on the volunteers.”

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ince Glenmary began inviting young people to leave behind all they know and spend time in the home missions, thousands of young men and women have answered the call to serve.

The majority of those volunteers traveled to the Farm, and as a result, can share a laundry list of common experiences that elicit both tears and laughter.

Today, the program’s core elements of service, prayer and cultural immersion in an environment of simple living remain the same. Only the location has changed. The Tennessee site will allow volunteers to leave behind

the trappings of home to find— and share—peace through their service to the residents of Grainger and Union counties.

Just like their predecessors in Lewis County, Ky., success: After a day’s work, Toppa Joppa volunthese volunteers teers from McNicholas High School have the satare living signs isfaction of seeing tangible examples of how their of the Catholic efforts have helped enrich the material and spiriChurch’s pres- tual lives of those they have served. ence in Union and Grainger counties, where—until Glenmary arrived High school and college groups in 2011—the Church was not are booked at Toppa Joppa known. Through their service, through September.

“God is the center of our prothe Church is becoming more widely known and, in some cas- gram,” Joe says. “And with God’s help, it will continue for many, es, more widely accepted.  Joe feels a responsibility to many years to come.” create and build up a program that has the same life-changing For More Information: See impact on volunteers as the Ken- photos from the Glenmary Farm and the Nov. 22 celebration at tucky program.

His efforts are bearing fruit. theglenmaryfarm.shutterfly.com

glenmary volunteer experience left an ‘indelible mark’

By Larry Striegel

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y invitation to the Glenmary Farm was a poster on a college bulletin board depicting a poor boy in tattered clothing.

“God made me,” it said. “God don’t make junk.”

The poster invited me to try something different from courses, careers and social life.

It was the late 1970s. I sent in the coupon from the poster, got details in the mail, and the next summer drove from New Jersey to Vanceburg, Ky. It would be the first of nearly half a dozen trips in the next few years.

My memories of the Farm return in glimpses: • Hearing Brother Bob Hoffman tell college boys from around the country that moving rocks, digging ditches and building was one way to do God’s work.

• Seeing the impoverished living conditions of some area residents. Don’t judge by appearances, we were told, but learn to see people for themselves and try to imagine walking in their shoes.

• Singing “It Ain’t Gonna Rain No More,” “In Heaven There Is No Beer” and “Make the World Go Away,” led by the joyful guitar of Jerry Dorn, then a Glenmary brother (Brother Jim) and later a priest.

• Learning to tie a rope “Swiss seat” around my midsection to rappel out of a tree. w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

Some memories are fuller. One day more than a dozen volunteers visited a local tobacco farmer to learn about the growing and harvesting of a cash crop that provided a livelihood for a proud family of humble means. The college boys sat in the drying barn to hear the farmer tell his story. When a Glenmarian asked how many of the young men smoked cigarettes, not one raised a hand.

During a winter break, volunteers enjoyed a Christmas play by local children. Popcorn was distributed in brown paper bags. I dug into mine, but a poor boy of 8 or 9 seated next to me saved his to take home.

Yet when my popcorn was gone, he noticed and unselfishly held out his unopened bag. “Do you want mine?” he asked, completely sincere.

The spirit of the Farm inspired me to explore Glenmary further. I spent nearly a year as a parish volunteer in Georgia and then entered the House of Studies in Dayton.

Eventually, I went back to a career in journalism. But the dedicated people I met in and outside of Glenmary, and the lessons of Christian caring I learned at the Farm and beyond, left an indelible mark on my life.

Larry Striegel works as news editor at Newsday, the newspaper covering Long Island, N.Y. Spring 2015  G l e n m a r y C h a l l e n g e 11 DONATE NOW

Then & NOW

Western Ky. missions Diocese of Owensboro holds special place in Glenmary’s history

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 1942: Father Clem Borchers (second row,

third from left), along with Sisters of St. Francis and Father Francis Wuest (second row, far left) and Father Ben Wolf, celebrate the confirmation of three St. John School students in Sunfish, Ky. Father Clem served as pastor of Glenmary’s first mission­—St. John the Evangelist—until 1953, when he became Glenmary’s superior general following Father Bishop’s death. The mission was returned to the diocese in 1971.

photos / glenmary archives

n 2014, Glenmary’s presence in the Diocese of Owensboro, Ky., concluded with the return of Christ the King mission in Scottsville to the pastoral care of the diocese.

This mission area in Western Kentucky holds a special place in Glenmary history.

In all, 10 missions were established and/ or staffed by Glenmary in the diocese—and the majority of these missions trace their beginnings to Glenmary’s very first mission location, Sunfish in Edmonson County.

For over 50 years, Glenmarians and coworkers have worked to establish an effective Catholic presence in this area of Mission Land, USA. Where there were once trailer and house chapels, there now stand brick-and-mortar Catholic churches with growing congregations.

 1942: Missioners also moved into Logan

County, southwest of Edmonson County, to begin ministering at Sacred Heart Church in Russellville. As at the Sunfish mission, the parish included an elementary school. A pickup truck served as transportation for Sacred Heart School students because there were no school buses in Russellville.

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 1950: Glenmary’s presence spread into Todd

County. Father Bishop (center) attended the dedication of St. Mary and St. James Church in Guthrie. Eventually another mission—St. Susan—was established in the county seat of Elkton. Both were returned to the diocese in 2008. On Feb. 10, 2015, the Guthrie church was heavily damaged by fire, the cause of which is not yet known. w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

 1951: As new missions were founded, already

established missions continued to grow in membership. In Russellville, members of an entire extended family chose to join the Church.

 1964: Often when en-

tering new mission territory, missioners started from scratch. The Catholic Church in Allen County began with two house trailers—one used for the chapel and one for the rectory. The congregation of Christ the King eventually moved to a house until 2008, when their new church (inset) was completed and dedicated.

 1967: Father Joe

O’Donnell welcomes folks to a trailer chapel in Fordsville.

Father Joe was the longest-serving pastor of missions in Morgantown, Beaver Dam (inset) and Fordsville (1965-76; 1982-87). St. John in Fordsville (Ohio County) was returned to the Diocese of Owensboro in the 1990s.

The missions in Beaver Dam (Ohio County) and Morgantown (Butler County) became diocesan parishes in 2004.

 1968: First communicants join Father Gus Gup-

penberger for a class picture at St. Mary mission in Franklin (returned to the diocese in 2003). This mission in Simpson County was established in 1946.

 2015: Many outreach efforts were begun

in the diocese by Glenmarians and coworkers. For example, an idea by Father Tom Charters in the late 1990s to create a social service resource in Todd County eventually grew into the Todd County Interfaith Center.

The ecumenical effort continues today to help provide clothing, emergency assistance and food to those in need.

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Father Jerry Dorn 1944-2014

A missionary work of art A remembrance / Father Aaron Wessman

Creativity and passion guided his 50 years as a missioner and all his ministries

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photo / glenmary archives

have fond memories of visiting Father Jerry Dorn wherever he was stationed in the missions. I would often find him creating some piece of art. For instance, for Holy Week, he once created a magnificent crucified Christ out of barbed wire, clay, chicken wire, newspaper, and other materials that to this day remain a mystery.

What went into his works of art was as diverse as his creativity would allow. This was much like his missionary life: filled with a diversity of experiences, places and people, all held together by his creativity and passion.

Father Jerry, 70, a missioner and former Glenmary president, died of a heart attack on Nov. 10, 2014.

One of the elements which created the work of art that was Father Jerry’s missionary life was his ability to “let go” in order to receive more. He frequently said, “God cannot be outdone in generosity.”

He often told the story of his first encounter with Glenmary. After driving him from Minnesota to Ohio, his parents circled around Glenmary’s property (at Father Jerry’s request) four or five times before approaching. As he was about to get out of the car, his dad sensed Father Jerry’s hesitancy and fear.

He calmly said to his son: “Give it a year, Jerry. If after a year it is not for you, call me up. I will come and get you. We will farm as a team and make a milchanging lives: Father Jerry (left) lion togethstayed connected to the Glenmary er!” Father Farm and its volunteers throughout Jerry chose his years as a missioner.

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to let go that day, and he received what would come to be 50 years of joy as a missioner.

From saying goodbye to thousands of volunteers at the Glenmary Farm, to being open to taking on new assignments, Father Jerry was always willing to let go. He would enter a town where his presence was not necessarily wanted, and would leave with tears of love flowing from his eyes and from the eyes of those who had come to love him.

Another aspect which produced the work of art that was Father Jerry’s missionary life was trust—both of God and of others.

Dangling from a tree with Father Jerry a rope tied around the waist, Dorn: A life that many young people at the Farm will continue to remember hearing Brother Jim inspire. scream from down below, “Trust the brother!” as he encouraged them to rappel to the ground. (Father Jerry joined Glenmary as a brother and later pursued ordination.)

Others learned to trust more in themselves and in God just by sitting across from him at a campfire into all hours of the night, engaged in conversation and listening to his iconic stories.

This transformation was possible because they experienced such trust in Father Jerry.

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he artwork of his missionary life was also decorated with faithful commitment.

He was truly committed to the Church, to his calling to be a brother and priest, to his family, and ultimately to his relationship with God. He often said how important it was to him to remain faithful to these commitments until the day of his death.

Sadly that day has now come. But we can be assured that the artwork that was his missionary life will continue to inspire many. He will live on through his stories, the music he played on the guitar, and the lives he changed for eternity. It was all because he said yes to the call of being a missioner for Jesus in Mis sion Land, USA. w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

feature story

‘God Never Leaves’ That’s the message Father Francois Pellissier is sharing with incarcerated men at two Georgia state prisons and an immigration detention center.

And the men are taking it to heart.

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By Margaret Gabriel

hen Father Francois Pellissier hears a news story about U.S. immigration policy, he doesn’t think about political positions surrounding the issue, but instead thinks of the immigrant families he knows and ministers to in Georgia who are trying to achieve a better life in the United States.

Not long ago, for example, a couple arrived from Mexico—with travel visas—at a Georgia airport. When officials discovered an irregularity with their visas, they were separated and taken to different detention facilities. The husband was taken to the Stewart Detention Center, where he met Father Francois.

Although both husband and wife gave the same account of their travel, the wife’s account was found not credible but the husband’s was.

“So now he’s living in Massachusetts with their children and she’s being deported,” Father Francois says. “The immigration laws in the United States do not promote unity of the family—far from it!”

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ather Francois is the first Glenmarian to serve full-time in outreach to the incarcerated. He fills his days visiting three South Georgia ministry sites—Pulaski State

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Prison, Rutledge State Prison and Stewart Detention Center—to provide the incarcerated with Bibles and a compassionate presence, as well as to share the sacraments, rosaries and scapulars with the Catholics he encounters. He calls it “bringing the Church to the people,” and he does this oftentimes by just listening.

It’s a ministry he embraces because “I want to be part of the search for a God who longs to be known at the end of a journey. I believe God is present at the detention center and in the prisons. God is longing to be discovered in the Word, the sacraments, and the hearts of the inmates.”

Although he ministers to men in all three facilities, the bulk of his time is spent at the Stewart Detention Center located in Lumpkin, about 140 miles from Atlanta, where typically more than 80 percent of the detainees are Catholic. The detention center can hold up to 1,700 men, a population that fluctuates.

The privately owned and operated center incarcerates men with compromised immigration status who have been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. The majority of the rotating population of detainees typically face deportation. Others may move forward with legal processes  Spring 2015

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‘Even if the life of a person has been a disaster...God is in this person’s life.’  that will allow them to remain in the United members may not know what their legal status is.

States.

The reasons the men are being detained vary.

Some were stopped when they attempted to cross the border without appropriate visas, hoping to join their families or find work that would enable them to send money back home.

Others are seeking asylum to escape persecution in their home countries. And still others have criminal records or had their immigration status discovered after committing misdemeanor or traffic violations.

But Father Francois doesn’t focus on their legal status or the severity of their violations. He sees all the detainees and state prisoners as children of God in need of spiritual and temporal assistance.

His ministry to both prisoners and the immigrant community is deeply rooted in Catholic social teaching, the fundamental starting point for which is the defense of human life and dignity. Every human person is created in the image and likeness of God and has an inviolable dignity, value and worth.

Catholic social teaching on immigration states that all people have a right to migrate to sustain themselves and their families, and countries have a right to regulate their borders and control immigration. But countries must uphold both of these rights with justice and mercy.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) uses the word “broken” to describe the current U.S. immigration system that stresses enforcement only. The USCCB continues to call on lawmakers to work for comprehensive immigration reform as a solution.

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n 2014 Pope Francis said that “God is in everyone’s life. Even if the life of a person has been a disaster, even if it is destroyed by vices, drugs or anything else—God is in this person’s life.”

Father Francois hopes his visits and ministry to detainees and prisoners help them see God in their lives, too.

At the detention center, though, it’s difficult for him to establish ongoing relationships with those he visits because they are moved frequently. But he works diligently to remember each detainee’s name and to learn something about each man’s story.

He hopes his efforts will help give each man a sense of worth instead of a feeling that he has been forgotten by society and is only a head that is counted six times a day by facility guards.

For many of the Stewart detainees, all connections to the outside are lost. Even their family

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Father Francois tries to help relay information to family members—he refers to himself as a “carrier pigeon”—through phone calls and letters. He also contacts families to obtain baptismal certificates for those who want to make first Communion, receive confirmation or get married. He says helping make all these connections is the best part of his ministry.

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luent in French, English and Spanish, he is often asked to help translate legal documents. This is difficult, he says, because he’s unfamiliar with some of the legal terminology. “But it’s important work because I may be able to help detainees obtain immigration bonds.”

Bonds are given when money is put up to guarantee the detainees’ presence at all court appointments and meetings with U.S. immigration authorities. As a result, the individuals may receive the time needed to complete the paperwork required to improve their legal status.

Also in his role as “connector,” Father Francois is continuing to work with the couple who were separated upon their arrival in Georgia and has connected them with a pro bono attorney.

Although the wife is awaiting deportation (and has no idea when her return to Mexico might be scheduled), she has some hope that the decision regarding her status will be reversed and that she can then rejoin her husband and children.

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uring the months he has ministered at the state prisons and at the Stewart Detention Center, Father Francois has observed what he describes as an “incredible experience in grace,” as more men become involved in spiritual journeys.

“They’ve learned through praying and reading the Bible that God wants to be known and loved and celebrated. I had one man tell me at the detention center that ‘God is the only one I can trust. God never left me but I didn’t know that  until I came here.’”

For more information: Learn more about the Catholic Church’s position on immigration by visiting www.justiceforimmigrants.org. The Web site, sponsored by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, also contains recent news, statements from U.S. bishops, and parish resources for education and action. Additional resources on restorative justice for prisoners and Catholic social teaching principles can be found at www.usccb.org. w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

Partner in mission / by Dale Hanson

Fellow missionary lends support Ruth Holtel: ‘I believe in Glenmary’s ministry and would do anything to help them’

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and foreign missions need our help.”

She began her next chapter with Glenmary as volunteer organist for Sunday Mass at its small Cincinnati chapel, a role she’s had for the past 28 years. Ruth also served as vice president in charge of mission education experiences for the now-dissolved Glenmary Guild, a women’s group that supported the society’s work.

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ince retiring from the Cincinnati archdiocese in 2000, Ruth has worked as a housekeeper and cook at the Glenmary residence several days each month. Until 2009, she donated her salary to a drug rehabilitation program in Pakistan. But she now gives a significant percentage of her pay back to Glenmary and has named the society as sole beneficiary in her will.

Ruth is active in outreach to the elderly in the larger Cincinnati community, too—including Sunday visits with Glenmarians who now reside at an assisted living/skilled nursing facility.

“I believe the most important thing is living the beatitudes and building up the kingdom of God,” Ruth says. “I support Glenmary because that’s also what their home mission ministry is all about.”  photo / tricia sarvak

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uth Holtel, 85, of Cincinnati knows the importance of supporting missionaries and their work better than most people.

That’s because she has ministered in foreign and home missions and has worked in partnership with missionaries for almost six decades.

Along the way, she has partnered with, grown to admire, and assisted Glenmary in many ways. She has given her volunteer, prayerful and financial support since the mid1970s because “I believe in Glenmary’s ministry,” she says, “and would do anything to help them.”

Now retired from full-time work but active in part-time jobs and ministries, she believes that “every day we need to reach out to others, because we’re all missionary by our baptism.”

Ruth, who grew up in Oldenburg, Ind., joined the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary in 1948 and served 17 years in Pakistan. In 1972, she left religious life and moved to Cincinnati, where she earned certification as a licensed practical nurse and worked at a hospital.

In 1975, she embarked on another missionary opportunity as a volunteer social outreach worker in a four-county Glenmary mission area in rural Georgia. To make ends meet for three years, she carried out her ministry during the day and worked as a nurse at night.

“I loved serving the people there,” says Ruth.

“And I saw how missioners worked with the poorest of the poor. I was very drawn to their humanity. I also saw their small missions as an ideal because of their spirit of love and togetherness. That job was one of my greatest experiences. I’ve been a Glenmary person ever since.”

When Ruth returned to Cincinnati in 1978, she was hired by Catholic Social Services (Archdiocese of Cincinnati) to establish a homemaker service program—a team ministry to struggling families that she calls “another great missionary job.”

She later became program coordinator for the archdiocesan Mission Office. “One of my major responsibilities was helping parishes develop mission groups, which raise mission awareness and coordinate mission outreach,” Ruth says. “Because of Glenmary, I always reminded people that both U.S. home missions

dedication: Ruth Holtel has supported Glenmary in many ways over the years, including providing music for Sunday Mass at Our Lady of the Fields Chapel for the past 28 years.

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final words / from our readers

Messages of hope and love Readers share appreciation for recent articles, Glenmary Farm and Father Jerry Dorn most inspirational

the winter 2014 issue of the Glenmary Challenge was outstanding—beginning with the precious picture of the “angel” on the cover and including all of the articles.

Since I work on volunteer projects with people of various faiths, I found the “Shining an Ecumenical Light” article particularly interesting.

However, Father Chet’s “A ‘Poor’ Christmas? Impossible!” was certainly the most inspirational. I intend to share that article with people I know whose circumstances (whether financial, family or other) might preclude a Christmas “celebration” as dictated by our society.

Father Chet’s message was truly one of hope.

Congratulations on your 75th anniversary and God bless you in all the years ahead!

Rita A. Madak Pittsburgh, Penn. bittersweet visit

in november 2014 i was able to take a bittersweet trip back to a very special place and time in my life. In college I was closely affiliated with Glenmary. After I graduated I spent two years as a volunteer manager at the Glenmary Farm in Vanceburg, Ky. The Farm was a volunteer site for high school and college groups.

These were life-changing experiences for me and the many people who experienced them.

After 40 years and some 22,000 volunteers who passed through the Farm, Glenmary came to a point where they had to close the program at the Kentucky location because they had 18

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big impact: Father Jerry Dorn presided at a Mass at the Glenmary Farm following one of the many floods the property experienced over the past 15 years. Involved with the Glenmary Group Volunteer Program at the Farm for more than 40 years, Father Jerry is remembered as a mentor to many former volunteers.

(See story on page 14.)

finished their mission work in that area. (See story on page 9.)

There was a big celebration to commemorate the Farm’s legacy on Nov. 22. The bittersweet part of this whole story was that two weeks prior to the celebration, Father Jerry Dorn, who was very instrumental in starting the Farm and mentoring the program over the 40 years of its history, died suddenly of a heart attack.

Father Jerry made a very big impact on many people’s lives, including mine. He was a very special mentor for me, and the experience at the Farm etched some very enduring messages on my heart.

We had a very special song that was sung many times at the Farm. I would like to remember

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Father Jerry and the Farm with this refrain from the song: “A d i o s amigos, mis compadres...I come here simply to say, it’s a pleasure to know you, my purpose...to show you that love is the only way!”

Eddie Biehn Burlington, Wis. Editor’s Note: Father Jerry Dorn prayer cards can be obtained by contacting Glenmary’s Donor Services at 800-935-0975 or donorservices@glenmary.org.

Readers’ Views welcome! Send comments to: Editor, Glenmary Challenge, P.O. Box 465618, Cincinnati, OH 45246. Fax: 513874-1690, E-mail: challenge@ glenmary.org. Please include a postal address. w w w. g l e n m a r y. o r g

w w w.glenmary.org the w e b site of C atholic missioners to rural A merica

O n line Co nte nts

What’s new Vocation Programs Are Strong and Growing

Glenmary’s formation program welcomed a new student in January 2015, bringing the number of future missioners to 12. Each man has distinct gifts to share. glenmary.org/strong Students

Departments Ways to Give

Entire parishes can become partners in Glenmary’s missionary efforts through tithing. glenmary.org/tithing

Vocations

Have excuses for not pursuing a missionary vocation? Brother David says you aren’t alone! glenmary.org/excuses

Brother David

Resources

Glenmary’s Fast Facts offer demographic and religious statistics for every U.S. county. glenmary.org/fast-facts

Volunteer Opportunities

Attention former Glenmary volunteers: Stay in touch by updating your contact information. glenmary.org/addressupdate

Fast Facts

Feature Story Catholic for One Day

A Tennessee man first received the sacraments one day before dying. Father Vic Subb tells his story and reflects on sharing the faith with those he serves. glenmary.org/aday Father Vic reflects

Gospel Harmony Quartet CD

Order a CD of hymns sung by members of the Gospel Harmony Quartet during tent meetings in Glenmary’s early years. glenmary.org/quartet Vacation Bible School Programs

Need help planning this year’s Vacation Bible School? Glenmary offers parishes a choice of two Catholic programs. glenmary.org/mission-ed

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Gospel music CD

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NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. Postage PAID Glenmary Home Missioners

photo / st. michael the archangel youth group

Glenmary G l i m p s e / Sharing juggling techniques

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rother David Henley, Glenmary’s vocation director and resident juggler, displayed his skills last summer at a street fair in Erwin, Tenn.

The youth group members of St. Michael mission in Erwin sponsored a booth at the fair and had the opportunity to take juggling lessons from Brother David. It didn’t take long for the youth group members to catch on and try their hands at juggling rings, balls and pins. There was one element of Brother David’s presentation they didn’t get to try out, though. He was the only one who juggled the flaming torches!

Catholic Missioners to Rural America

Glenmary Home Missioners P.O. Box 465618 Cincinnati, OH 45246-5618