k ansas
Listening to the call
monks
a publication for the Society of St. Benedict
d i s c e r n i n g g o d ’ s w i l Society l i no St.o Benedict u r l i v e s1 f
Ora
Labora
6 - God’s Call
4 - From the Abbot
8 - From the Desert
10 - We Remember
Monks reflect on their journey to the monastic life.
Father Gabriel Landis explains lectio divina.
9 - Silence
Brother Christopher Start offers his perspective on listening to God in silence.
Abbot James discusses his decision to join the monastery.
We look back on the lives of Father Ignatius Smith (19262013) and Father Michael Thomas Santa (1930-2013.)
12 - A Future & A Hope
Father Matthew Habiger and Brother Leven Harton discuss our new church leaders.
15 - An Offering
The life of a Benedictine Oblate.
in the next Kansas Monks • Love of Learning • A profile Father Marion Charboneau
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Kansas Monks
16 - Evangelize
Vaughn Kohler offers five ways we can make evangelization a habit.
18 - Benedictine Pastors
Audrey Edwards sat down with three Benedictine monks whose vocation has taken them outside the monastery.
20 - The Banquet
We look back on the banquet honoring Abbot Barnabas Senecal.
23 - Abbey Notes
News from the monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey.
of
Society
St. Benedict
Dear Society of St. Benedict: The first word of the Rule of St. Benedict is “listen.” “Listen carefully, my son, to the master’s instructions, and attend to them with the ear of your heart.” Listening is the general theme of this issue of Kansas Monks magazine. We chose it because the art of listening is fundamental not only to the monastic life, but to all of our lives. Regardless of our chosen vocation, all of us have to learn how to listen to God. Whether we are discerning a religious vocation or making a career choice, we have to learn to hear God’s voice. In the past six months, both the College of Cardinals and the monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey have listened to the promptings of the Holy Spirit to discern the will of God in choosing a spiritual father. In our feature story, Father Matthew Habiger and Brother Leven Harton will reflect on the vision of Pope Francis and Abbot James. They will speak to the future and hope for St. Benedict’s Abbey and the Roman Catholic Church. You will read about how some of the monks discerned their calling to the monastic life. Father Gabriel teaches us how to listen to the voice of God through the practice of lectio divina. Brother Christopher tells us how we can listen to God by practicing silence. And Benedictine College senior Audrey Edwards explores an option for those not called to the monastic life: discerning a call to be a Benedictine Oblate. Fathers Roderic Giller, Gerard Senecal, and Gabriel Landis discuss their roles as monk pastors in local parishes. Don’t forget to check our website, Kansasmonks.org, or our Facebook page, Facebook.com/kansasmonks, where you’ll find helpful articles and entertaining videos. In preparing video tributes to Abbot Barnabas for his recent retirement banquet, many people praised him as a great listener. At the banquet, in addition to honoring Abbot Barnabas, we honored all the men who had listened to the voice of God and discerned a vocation to the monastic life here at St. Benedict’s Abbey. We hope you enjoy—and are encouraged—by this issue of Kansas Monks. Hopefully, you’ll learn how to listen to God better. Maybe you’ll recommit to praying for more men to discern a call to the monastic life. The Church cannot afford to be without men who are committed to loving and serving Christ with their whole lives. Thank you again for your continued support. In the Spirit of Saint Benedict,
Joe Akers Executive Director of Development
Society of St. Benedict
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From the Abbot A Decision of Peace I remember well the afternoon of Sunday, August 13, 1995. My weekend was over; Monday morning and work were staring me in the face, and there I was sitting in my vehicle parked in front of St. Benedict’s Abbey feeling like I was going to get sick. I had just walked out of the Abbey Guest House after speaking with Father Meinrad Miller, telling him that I thought I was being called to join the Abbey. When I came up to visit that weekend, I don’t think I had any intention to ask for an application to enter the community; I can’t say going into that conversation with Father Meinrad I had a burning knowledge that this is what I was supposed to do. In fact, I had made an earlier visit that summer, a return visit to the Abbey and Benedictine College, to get Father Meinrad off my back about joining the Abbey. Make the visit and that would be that. So what was I doing here again, a month later, asking for an application? In understanding that moment, all I can say is it had to be the Spirit that prompted me, because I had so many reasons for not requesting an application. Even more odd, I examine that moment and really see how God can work with imperfect intentions to bring about his will. Discernment? I knew little about it at that point in my life, but I know now that something was there that encouraged me to make the decision to join St. Benedict’s Abbey and God has worked through it; he purified my honorable, yet imperfect, intentions. Abbot James entered the novitiate There are so many events, things, people and memories in our lives that influence how on December 7, 1995. His family, we each make decisions. That is really the beauty of one’s personal discernment, just including his Grandmother Bette that, it is personal, and it is based on one’s relationship with God. Each of us nurtures Sittenauer (above at left), were on hand to see him receive his habit our communication with God in a unique way; the tragedy comes when we don’t foster and Rule. that relationship with the Father and therefore we don’t know how he responds to us and what his voice sounds like to us. It is easy enough to ask God for this or that, maybe even to ask for understanding of what he desires for us. But how often do we simply open ourselves to hear what God wants? St. Benedict prescribes quiet meditation during which our main purpose is to listen. “Listen carefully, my son, to the master’s instructions, and attend to them with the ear of your heart. This is advice from a father who loves you…” (Prologue to the Rule of St. Benedict, v. 1). St. Benedict understood that discernment is as much about figuring out who I am as it is figuring out my relationship with God and his will for me. To know one’s own heart is a challenge; to love is a challenge. As we come to understand ourselves, we then see how our relationship with the Father is so important to our happiness. We begin to hear what God has to say to us and are then able to internalize it, pray over it, wrestle with it, understand it in context to who we are, and then pray over it some more, asking God to bless the decision with peace. Having formerly served as Vocation Director for the Abbey, in addition to the young people I have journeyed with through spiritual direction, I’ve been blessed to see how this awareness of self and this relationship with God can develop in individuals. When this happens in a person’s life, both the response to the will of God and the practice of making a choice are done out of love. “And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ…” (Philippians 1:9-10.) I look back on that August day, and maybe I didn’t fully recognize how God was working through me, through my discernment and my choice. I recognize now that sometimes God’s thoughts are not my thoughts, and his ways are not my ways (see Isaiah 55:8). Our prayer should be that we open ourselves to a relationship with the Father that will expose our hearts to him so that he can mold us and shape us. In the Spirit of Saint Benedict,
Abbot James R. Albers, OSB
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Kansas Monks
t h e a b b at i a l b l e s s i n g o f
James Robert Albers, OSB n i n t h a b b ot o f st. b e n e d i c t ’s a b b e y
On March 17 at St. Benedict’s Abbey Church, Abbot James Albers received the liturgical Abbatial Blessing from Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. In addition to the Archbishop, thirty-five priests, fifteen abbots, three bishops, and a throng of family and friends, some of whom traveled from as far as Rome, came to witness the ninth Abbot accept his new title, ring, and cross. At Vespers the evening prior to the blessing, Archabbot Douglas Nowicki, OSB, of St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, blessed the articles of the Abbot’s office. Archbishop Joseph Naumann delivered his homily saying, “[This] liturgy is a monumentally important moment for the community of St. Benedict’s and for the ministries that it sponsors: Maur Hill-Mount Academy, Benedictine College... and indeed the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. “Monasteries are small communities, but they have an extraordinary impact on the Church, culture and society. “I think [Abbot James] will be a great leader for this community because he is insightful as well as compassionate and caring for his brothers. He will help build on the foundation that has been entrusted to him, helping the Abbey and its influence grow.” After the blessing, more than 800 people attended a reception for the Abbot, which was held at Ralph Nolan Gymnasium on the campus of Benedictine College.
My brother monks, what an awesome gift we have been given by Christ and those of our confreres who have gone before us in building up this school for the Lord’s service. It is the very gift of Christ we have received: Christ in each other and our community; Christ in those who join us in our mission and who seek refreshment; Christ who is found in the most vulnerable we serve. It is the gift of the Light of Life with which we must run, as St. Benedict encourages us, and as we run with that gift we are called to pour ourselves out to give life to others who are encouraged to seek Christ in our community. - Abbot James Albers Excerpt from address following blessing
Society of St. Benedict
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God’s Call
How t he M onk s Discer n God’s Wil l in Their L iv e s Discernment—it is central to religious life. Six monks share the story of how they discerned—or continue to discern—a vocation to the religious life. While we hope these testimonies provide inspiration for a general audience, we also hope they help others discern a vocation to religious life. If you know someone who might benefit from this article, please pass it along.
Prior Jeremy Heppler
Fa t h e r B r u c e S w i f t
B r o t h e r Ti m o t h y M c M i l l a n
I have known the Benedictines all of my life. My aunt, Sister Maria, is a sister of the Mount. For many years, we had the Heppler family Christmas party at her convent. While a student at Benedictine College, I befriended some of the monks and occasionally came to Evening Prayer. I also came to a deep appreciation of the Rule for its practicality and its simple, yet profound, spirituality. During my senior year, I began the process to become an oblate, through which I gained an even deeper love of Benedictinism. Still, I had no clue where God was calling me vocationally. After graduation, when I was a first year teacher, I asked Father Meinrad if I could come to the Abbey for a retreat. During that week everything – prayer, readings, conversations – had the same refrain, “come and see.” I spent much of that week arguing with God; but by the end of the week, he won. I would love to tell you that every moment since I joined has been everything I hoped for, but there were several times I was very close to leaving. Through much discernment, I realize that God has gently called me and continues daily to call me to “come and see,” to journey with my brothers under our Rule.
My path to religious life was probably different than most young men in the 50s. I was a student at St. Benedict’s College taking science courses with the thought of going into some branch of medicine and dating my high school sweetheart. During my junior year, I was curious about the monks living at the Abbey. In those days, most of the dorm supervisors and professors were monks. If one were in good standing with his prefect and teachers, he could spend a weekend living, praying and working with the monks. I asked Father Arthur, my prefect, if he would make arrangements for me. I came on a Friday after my classes and spent the weekend with the monks, getting up at 4:00 or 4:15 am to pray - all in Latin - and living the daily life of a monk. I fell in love with the place. I had never felt such peace before. Masses and worship were held at St. Benedict’s Parish church. Meals in the college were family style. After dinner, I would go to the church and pray a rosary, asking for some sign. During my senior year I made another visit to the monastery and God answered my prayers. After graduation I became a novice and have been here ever since, being professed for 58 years.
For me, discernment requires an active pursuit of God’s will, always being open, continually offering yourself to Christ in the sacraments, and developing a personal relationship; consuming the peace that is found in his presence. As a student at Benedictine, I didn’t know much about the monks. During my junior year, I had been trying to figure out what God was calling me to do with my life. Almost effortlessly, I met several monks and my openness to the religious life began to expand with my growing love of the Catholic faith. I took part in spiritual direction, visited with the monks and continued to consult my thoughts in adoration and daily Mass. My vocation became more clear as I spent time in silence with our Lord. During one of my theology courses, I was assigned to read the Rule. The life and guidelines of St. Benedict inspired me. It strengthened my desire for Christ and I could no longer restrain my attraction to the lifestyle of this humble saint. I recently professed first vows as a monk, but that does not mean I am done discerning. I still continue to balance my life with the duality of work and prayer, I want to make sure this is what I want, that I will continue to find my spiritual conviction in God. He alone will solidify my life choice.
Benedictine Since 2003
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Kansas Monks
Benedictine Since 1955
Benedictine Since 2012
Listen carefully, my son, to the master’s instructions, and attend to them with the ear of your heart. This is advice from a father who loves you; welcome it, and faithfully put it into practice. - Rule of St. Benedic t, Prol o gue: 1
B r o t h e r A n t h o n y Vo r w e r k
B r ot h e r J o se ph R ya n
Abbot Owen Purcell
When discerning a vocation, some take a leap of faith, others walk a path of conviction. At 18, I did both. I attended Catholic schools, went to Mass, and enjoyed my parish as well as growing up around Benedictines who were assigned to our Church. During high school, I had a conversation with a priest who suggested that I visit St. Benedict’s Abbey. He asked me to consider it as I discerned. I took his advice, and after my visit, I was convinced that the Abbey was where I was meant to be. I entered the monastery knowing I wanted to serve the Lord, but I did not feel called to serve a parish, I was called to partake in the community. Even though I was very young, I knew after my visit I was meant to be at St. Benedict’s Abbey. I felt a sense of peace in my search for a vocation and grew to love my faith more because of it. The process of discernment involves a test of the will as well as the heart. In any vocation it is important to handle each moment individually. Discernment doesn’t always mean waiting for an answer from God, but trusting that his will might be done by way of the choices you make in good faith. My vocation is to do God’s will, but my choice was to become a monk, and I have lived and loved my faith more because of the two.
As I look back at my journey, the two people who had the most influence on me were my parents. As I was growing up I would see my mother reading the Bible and praying each morning. And though my father passed away when I was young, my mother told me of his dedication to his faith, taking time away from work to attend daily Mass. I must have filed their prayer lives into the back of my head. When I went to college, I started attending daily Mass and practicing lectio divina. Though I was leading a more prayerful life, I still wanted to get married and have a family; I kept shutting out the thought of religious life. After graduating, something was missing. I kept coming back to Atchison to visit, and friends, including Paul Rolling (now Father Brendan), kept telling me that I should stay and join the Abbey. I continued to say no. At Father Meinrad Miller’s ordination something clicked inside me, and I asked to stay. At first the religious life was a struggle and I was uncertain if it were for me. As I prayed with a monk who was dying, I felt a peace come over me. It was then I discovered the Abbey was my home. Though I did not marry, God gave me a large family. Though there have been trials, I wouldn’t change a thing. I am happy.
I was an only child. That can be both a blessing and a curse depending on how the situation is faced. There was a period of turmoil in my home, and I found the Church to be a place of refuge and rest even though I was young. I took solace in serving Mass and saying the rosary. I felt at home at the Cathedral in Leavenworth. The pastors took a personal interest in me. An annual picnic was held at St. Benedict’s College for Mass servers. The place was welcoming. I watched some men playing softball and was told they were monks of the Abbey. One question led to another, and my interest in their community grew. Some of the monks would come to Leavenworth to help at our parish. I got to know some of them, including Father Gilbert Wolters and Father Thomas Hartman, later Abbot. (I went on to serve as his Subprior.) I found the monks friendly, easy to visit with, with a good sense of humor. In August of 1949 I got on the Missouri Pacific Bus and came to St. Benedict’s to be a Hilltopper, that is, a seminarian. Life as a monk has been eventful with the changes in the Church, particularly Vatican Council II, and in society. For me it has been quite a journey: joyous, sad and challenging. Often the “grass looked greener” elsewhere, but I have found wonderful and loving people here and at Mount St. Scholastica. We vow stability. I am here to stay!
Benedictine Since 1953
Benedictine Since 1995
Benedictine Since 1952
Society of St. Benedict
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From The Desert Discerning God’s Will
through
Lectio Divina
The Early Desert Fathers practiced lectio divina or holy reading, a monastic practice through the centuries and a tool that the Church encourages her faithful to employ. In short, it is spending time in prayer either with Sacred Scripture or a good holy book. Many books have been written on lectio divina, but I thought I could share with you how I practice it. Let us start with Sacred Scripture reading from Romans 12:1-2: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Now that I have a couple of verses selected, I ask the Holy Spirit to be with me as I slowly pray over the reading. Note I said pray slowly. This is the Word of God speaking to us; so it is right that we enter a calm, unhurried state of prayer.
This is the Word of God speaking to us; so it is right that we enter a calm, unhurried state of prayer.
I read slowly, letting the Holy Spirit center me on the text. I may read it at least three times. Usually, some part of the text stands out from the rest. Whatever stands out is what I believe the Holy Spirit wants me to focus on. So I center my prayer and contemplation on that. What stands out to me are parts of verse two: “Do not be conformed to this world….so that you may discern what is the will of God.”
A thought—a question—just struck me: “How have I conformed to the ways of the world? I have seen my spiritual life grow over the years, but what is hindering me from deeper growth, a deeper interior life now?” Ah. I can hear God quietly speaking or bringing those areas to mind where I need to let go. “Stop trying to be in control,” is what I hear. “You have ceded much control over the years to me, but you still hold on to so much of the lie that you can control events and circumstances around you. Renounce the lie, surrender more of this to me, your Father. Trust me.” Ironically, I often preach on the need for us to let go of the lie that we are in control of our lives. During homilies, this pastor often preaches to himself! I continue my meditation and reflect on the words “so that you may discern what is the will of God.” The more I surrender control or any other area of my life to God, the more I become attuned to God’s voice and how he wants my will to freely choose his will. Again, ironically, that is something I like to address in my preaching. (Looks like this article is a reminder to myself!) When we do discern what God’s will is through lectio divina, we are able to combine our will with his will. When that happens, God will richly reward us with his graces and blessings. We creatures can never out-do God in his generosity. He knows exactly what is good and acceptable and perfect for us. God wants us to share in his plan of redemption. He wants us to make correct decisions. He wants to perfect us. In short, by not conforming to the way of this world, God is calling us to a more intimate and loving relationship. He is calling us to a love beyond all telling. I discover these insights through lectio divina. You can do it, too.
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Kansas Monks
Silence
by Brother Christopher Start
In every relationship, there is a point where the only word that will do is to stay silent. Whether it be the gaze of bride and groom at the moment before they exchange vows, or the parting look before death takes a loved one, or the everyday contentedness of a pause in the conversation with a dear friend, there are times when the only thing to do is let the silence speak. In our faith-journeys, there are times when we need to share with Jesus all of our joys and worries. Perhaps resting in quiet before our Lord speaks the words of our hearts most authentically. God is always right before us, but hidden. The chaos of everyday life obscures him and distracts us. To spend time with him, we must quiet that which prevents our hearts from being present to God. This motion, from silence to prayer, is itself a prayer. Our first task in approaching quiet is to begin to collect our scattered thoughts. This task in itself is difficult. Simply because the will desires silence does not mean the intellect is going to stop its constant chatter. What do we do with these thoughts? You could fight them and force them to submit, but that takes a lot of energy and likely the thought will end up louder and more entrenched. Perhaps the best bet is simply to watch the comings and goings of the thoughts, acknowledging without judging them, nor letting them distract or distress. Thoughts come and go as they please, but they need not take me with them. If the same thought resurfaces, let it go again, and again. This needs to be a movement of patience and peace, not force. If I get anxious or angry about a thought, then I have lost any sense of silence and recollection. Even if I can get no further than this in my prayers, then the time has been well spent! Our efforts to pray and enter silence are themselves pleasing to God our Father who knows our hearts. Where is all of this going? The goal of silence is not to somehow “impress” God with my ability to marshal all of my thoughts into order. Instead, by entering this silence, I am trying to find that quiet center of myself, through which the Holy Spirit moves in my heart. This silence lets me be present to the God who deserves the first and best of everything. It is here I am most myself, most human; fully awake! It is only through acts of will and the movement of grace that I can be present to the quiet emptiness within which God waits for me. I stand before my Father, quietly, with open hands, waiting to receive whatever grace he deigns to bestow upon me. Most of the time, he responds in silence. Not, that is, in the silence of cutting off and ignoring, but rather, the silence we hear back from him is that of a Lover gazing into the heart of his Beloved. This point in particular merits further reflection. We try to be fully present to the ones we love. All the distractions of the day vanish when they need us, and they become our anchors in times of trouble. The beautiful truth is that our Lord is always present. St. Augustine remarks that “God is closer to me than I am to myself!” Through our silence, we enter into his inscrutable Mystery, wherein he never ceases to exclaim his love for all of us together and each of us apart. Our Lord waits for us in every moment. No matter our walk in life, he is there, at the core of our being. We need not take on a strict discipline of perpetual silence, but by and large, we are meant to find our Lord in the day-to-day of the vocation to which he has called us. Today, make an effort to spend time with Jesus in the quiet. During the drive to work, turn the radio off for five minutes. Turn off the computer, television, music; set aside the many things which (legitimately) demand our attention for a few moments. Simply rest in the silence, and know that in the responding quiet is the loving gaze of our God.
Peace
Quiet yourself. Reach out with your mind’s skillful hand. Let it go inside of me and touch God. Don’t be shy, dear. Every aspect of Light we are meant to know. The calm hand holds more than baskets of goods from the market. The calm soul knows more than anything this world can ever offer. - St. John of the Cross - 1542-1591
Brother Christopher Start is a junior monk at St. Benedict’s Abbey. He professed first vows Dec. 8, 2010. He recently finished his philosophical studies at Benedictine College. Society of St. Benedict
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For all tho se who have gone b efore u s
Father I g n at i u s Smi t h , O SB August 31, 1926 - April 27, 2013
photo by Abbot Barnabas Senecal
Father Ignatius (John) Smith, O.S.B., died the afternoon of April 27, 2013, at the Atchison Hospital, having received the sacraments of the Church and apostolic pardon from Abbot James Albers. He was born on August 31, 1926, in Wilmore, Pennsylvania, the son of Peter Joseph and Florence (Beyer) Smith. He was the oldest of three children. Father Ignatius grew up in the heart of Benedictine territory in Pennsylvania, a short distance from Carrolltown, where Father Henry Lemke, OSB, the first Benedictine monk to come to Kansas, is buried. Six first cousins went on to the priesthood, including several who became monks at Saint Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Father Ignatius followed them and professed his vows as a monk at the Archabbey on September 23, 1946. Father Ignatius transferred his stability to Holy Cross Abbey, Cañon City, Colorado, a foundation of St. Vincent. He was ordained on December 18, 1954, as a monk of Holy Cross Abbey. While a monk there, he served in parishes throughout Colorado, as well as serving as Prior at the monastery in Cañon City. In July, 2002, when the monks of Holy Cross Abbey voted to close the monastery, Father Ignatius was appointed the temporary superior. Afterward, he came to Atchison, transferring his vow of stability here. Father Ignatius was a quiet man, faithful to his monastic vows. Throughout his life he saw much change: growing up in the great depression, moving to Colorado, and then witnessing the closing of his monastic community. Through it all he remained faithful to his commitment to Jesus Christ as a monk and a priest. He is survived by his brother monks; his brother Thomas in Cañon City, Colorado; and his sister Rose Norris and her husband Joseph of Cresson, Pennsylvania, and their children Gia, Tanksley, and Joseph.
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Celebrating Father Ignatius: “Uphold me, O Lord, as you have promised, and I shall live; let me not be disappointed in my hope.”
- Suscipe
For nearly 66 years , Father Ignatius made this prayer and hope his own, at various places in his assignments , and in three different monastic communities as God called him to transfer his vow of stability, yet through it all to love and ser ve Him all the same. - Excerpt from homily by Abbot James Albers
Kansas Monks
marked by the sign of faith
Father M i c hael Th o ma s S ant a , O SB December 17, 1930 - March 10, 2013
Father Michael Thomas Santa, OSB, died on Sunday evening, March 10, 2013, surrounded by confreres and family, having received the rites of the Church and apostolic pardon. Thomas Michael Santa was born on December 17, 1930, in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Michael T. and Anne (Rochey) Santa. He attended Immaculate Conception Grade School and Immaculata High School in Leavenworth, Kansas, graduating from high school in 1948. After graduating from St. Benedict’s College in 1952, he entered Kenrick Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. Having completed his theology studies, he was ordained March 17, 1956, at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Kansas City, Kansas. From there, he went on to study at the University of Dayton (Ohio), Emporia State University (Kansas), and Kansas State University, earning a Master of Science in Educational Administration in 1965 and a doctorate in Education Curriculum and Instruction in 2001. After twentyeight years as a priest, he entered St. Benedict’s Abbey, receiving the name Michael. He professed vows on September 15, 1984. For the first four years of his priesthood, 1956-1960, Father Michael served as associate pastor of Assumption Parish in Topeka, Kansas, and Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kansas. He also served as an instructor of religion at Donnelly College and chaplain for the University of Kansas Medical Center. For the next thirty years, Father Michael held teaching and educational administrative positions, and he performed his duties with distinction. From 1960-1979, he was the principal and religion teacher at Hayden High School in Topeka, Kansas. From 1984-1996, he was professor of education at Benedictine College. He was also a member of the National Association of Secondary School Principals, and for his faithful service throughout his life, Benedictine College conferred upon him the Kansas Monk Award in 1981. Throughout those years, he also served another stint as pastor of Assumption Parish in Topeka, Kansas, as well as St. Joseph’s Parish in Shawnee, Kansas. Father Michael served the monastic community as the Prior from 1993-2002. He also helped with formation work, serving as the Novice Master and Junior Master. Father Michael was preceded in death by his loving parents and two sisters, Patricia Forge and Ona Hunt. He is survived by his sister, Roberta, two brothers-in-law, Gene Forge and Jim Sexton, and 16 nephews and nieces.
Celebrating Father Michael: When diagnosed with multiple sclerosis , Father Michael didn’t withdraw from communion with others in faith, nor the journey with us in our monastic lives . In fact he lived with greater determination. He continued to teach, to celebrate Mass with the students and our community. He was a priest forever and a faithful monk of the Order of St. B enedict. He lived as such and in his living taught us much. - Excerpt from homily by Abbot James Albers Society of St. Benedict
11
a future & a hope
Father Matthew Habiger, benedictine
Father M atthew Habiger and Brother Leven Har ton discuss the exciting changes monk since 1963, and Brother Leven in the Church and our new leaders both here at the Abbey and in R ome.
Harton, benedictine monk since 2007 reflect on the timeless strength of the church and discuss the excitement of its future.
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Kansas Monks
In Unison with
The Vision by Father Matthe w Habiger A monastery exists to serve God and his people, who make up the Church, the Bride of Christ. Men are drawn to a monastery and religious life because they want to make Jesus the top priority in their lives. This is what Jesus is calling them to do. While nurturing their relationship with Jesus through regular prayer, lectio divina and the Sacraments, monks apply their talents and energies to various tasks within the Church. People look to religious men and women to help them grow closer to God, and discover what he is calling them to do with their lives, how they are to help build up the Body of Christ. All this requires spiritual leadership. An abbot represents Christ in the monastery as a spiritual father. He is adept in the spiritual life, where he can guide his monks into a deeper relationship with God, while drawing out all their various talents, and placing the monastic community at the service of Jesus and his people. An abbot, in turn, must be in close harmony with the successor to Peter and with the local bishop. The Holy Father has Jesus’ promise that he will always have a true understanding of Jesus’ plan for the human race in matters of faith and morals. The Pope leads the Church into the ways of God unerringly. When we pay respect to the Magisterium of the Church, we are simply acknowledging one of the great gifts that God has bestowed upon His Church. Abbot James has the advantage of spending three years in Rome, doing his studies in theology while preparing for the priesthood. He knows the Center of Christianity first hand, and senses the irreplaceable role of the Holy Father. I think that Abbot James is more impressed with the actual teachings of the pontiff than with any analysis of the pope made by people within the Church. Abbot James will incorporate the teachings and guidance of recent pontiffs, and now Pope Francis, into the vision of St. Benedict’s Abbey. He will guide our abbey into the service of the Church in the new century, while also drawing abundantly from the Benedictine charism.
Pope Francis is a man of the people. He loves the simplicity of his patron, St. Francis of Asissi. For him, everything centers about the person of Jesus. He is adept in using contemporary symbols and examples that help people understand the contents of Faith. He will try to draw disparate peoples together. He will help the Church to adapt its God-given purpose for the new century. He will respond to the new vitality of the faith now seen in the Southern Hemisphere. He defends the voiceless: the unborn, the street children, and the victims of human trafficking. This we can expect from Abbot James. He will lead St. Benedict’s Abbey in unison with the vision the pope has for the Vatican and the Church. His pro-life efforts will use the guidance of Evangelium Vitae. Both he and Father Brendan Rolling organized the early Pro-Life pilgrimages to Washington D.C. that have become a huge testimony by Benedictine College students to the sanctity of all human life. Abbot James’s efforts to foster Catholic identity in our educational apostolate will be based on Ex Corde Ecclesiae. His vision of religious life will be taken from the apostolic exhortation, Vita Consecrata. He frequently draws upon the teachings of recent pontiffs for his own teaching. My hope is that the good Lord will invite many new members to St. Benedict’s Abbey, where they can grow into spiritual maturity and human completion. Having acquired this depth in their humanity, they will then be prepared to help make our abbey a vibrant center of Catholicism, fully identified with the successor of Peter, and dedicated to growing into holiness. The world sorely needs monastic centers like this to help build up the Body of Christ. Please pray that those men, whom the Lord of the Harvest is calling to St. Benedict’s Abbey, will generously respond to that call.
Father Matthew has been a Benedictine monk since 1963. He is a full-time member of NFP Outreach, traveling the country speaking on God’s plan for marriage, spousal love and family.
Society of St. Benedict
13 13
Why I am Grateful by Brother Leven Harton
At the Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper, our new Holy Father, Pope Francis, caused a stir by washing the feet of women. Father Denis Meade informed me that the practice of washing the feet by a church leader stems from a practice carried out for centuries by abbots in monasteries. I have heard concern that this action of the Pope could compromise clarity of dogma concerning the rite. Ought women be allowed to participate in this fashion of taking “the place” of the disciples, who had their feet washed? Understanding this action requires attentiveness to a statement Pope Francis made about his vision of the Church: “We have to avoid the spiritual sickness of a self-referential church. It’s true that when you get out into the street, as happens to every man and woman, there can be accidents. However, if the church remains closed in on itself, self-referential, it gets old. Between a church that suffers accidents in the street, and a church that’s sick because it’s self-referential, I have no doubts about preferring the former.” As a young person, boiling with unbridled and enthusiastic conviction, this statement by our Holy Father is a real provocation. Like others my age, I strongly desire visible identification, for the security and stability of clear, unambiguous self-definition in the Church. Pope Francis, with these words, Pope Francis is the first Pope to and with this liturgical action of washwelcome women for the feet-washing a woman’s feet on Holy Thursday, has ing rite at the Vatican. He regularly asked me to consider what is primary in the welcomed women to the rite while Church’s mission: simply correct and clean serving as Archbishop of Buenos dogma, or the manifestation—the IncarnaAires. tion—of Christ’s love for humanity? What our Holy Father is proposing to the faithful is that our institutional life in the Church, just like any other human institution, is susceptible to the great pitfall of making self-definition into a sort of self-obsession—perpetuating what Pope Francis calls “narcissistic theology.” It is for the Church that he implores her to “get out into the street,” to become Christ’s true Bride by loving self-gift. It is so that the Church might get her self-definition right!
By including women in the feet washing rite Pope Francis is seeking to “accentuate the evangelical command of the Lord, ‘who came to serve and not to be served.’”
-United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
A new era has begun with the election of Pope Francis and it is up to us to follow his lead. As with any reality, we each have the opportunity to let it be a provocation, a chance to see Christ more clearly. This hopefulness is the fundamental conviction of the Christian claim: Christ really is available—he is not a myth. The Holy Father challenges us to burst forth as the Church in acts of charity, to make present he who is able to bring redemption, true satisfaction to man. This is the leadership that we have with Pope Francis, a challenge to us all (both lay persons and monks!) to join him in giving primacy in our lives to the love of Christ. Engaging our day-today circumstances in such a manner, following our Supreme Pontiff in this way, we will manifest the glory of the Church. For this provocation, I am grateful to have a new leader in our Holy Father, Pope Francis!
Brother Leven has been a Benedictine monk since 2007. He is currently furthering his education with the hope of serving as a professor of english at Benedictine College. He also serves the Abbey as the Vocations Director and runs the Benedict’s Brittle business during the holiday season.
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Kansas Monks
An Offering
the life of a Benedictine Oblate
by Audrey Edwards, BC ‘12
Not everyone is called to the monastery, but living the Rule of St. Benedict is a vocation that doesn’t require a habit. A Benedictine oblate is a lay person who lives out the Rule of St. Benedict in accordance with daily life. While no solemn vows are taken, oblation is a solemn—and profoundly meaningful –way to express one’s commitment to the Catholic faith and the spirit of St. Benedict. Prior Jeremy Heppler is the Oblate Director at St. Benedict’s Abbey. He encourages everyone to open their hearts and minds to living out the values of St. Benedict by considering oblation. “The word oblate means offering,” he says. “In this way, the lay faithful are able to make themselves a spiritual offering.” Becoming an oblate is a serious decision, one which Prior Jeremy believes should be prayerfully considered. First, the individual must show interest, followed by a year of discernment, Second, those discerning must stay in contact with an oblate director, preferably at the monastery where they intend to make their commitment. Third and most importantly, they must actually live out their lifelong commitment to the Rule of St. Benedict. Oblates are encouraged toward the daily practice of lectio divina, spiritual reflection on a biblical or inspirational text. In addition, they should pray the Liturgy of the Hours, also known as the Divine Office, daily. Phyllis Lieb believes that her call to oblation has helped her commit to a daily conversion. “I was drawn to become an oblate after attending daily mass at the Abbey,” Lieb noted. “I was looking for something to deepen my faith and I found Benedictine spirituality.” At St. Benedict’s Abbey, oblates normally meet the second Saturday of every month. During these meetings, the oblate director leads the group in lectio, where members read a text together slowly and meditate on the way God is speaking to them. “Becoming an oblate is a serious commitment,” Prior Jeremy says. “You are expected to take responsibility for your level of spiritual prayer and activity in accordance with your current vocation in life; be it marriage, the single life, or as a college student.” Part of the beauty of oblation is how the virtuous lifestyle of St. Benedict is open to members of any Christian faith. According to Prior Jeremy, “As long as you are willing to glorify God through formation within St. Benedict’s Rule, oblation is a spiritual lifestyle any lay member can practice.” Lieb committed to St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison. She prays the Liturgy of the Hours daily in her home and invites students, alumni, and friends to consider the life of Benedictine oblation. One couple in particular, Gregory and Rachelle Waddle, are newlyweds and alumni of Benedictine College. Together, they are seriously discerning the life of oblation. “As we prepared for marriage last year we began talking about how great it would be to bring some of the principles of St. Benedict’s Rule into our family life,” Gregory Waddle said. “That’s when we realized we could become oblates. We had been interested but never acted on it, until this month when Phyllis invited us to an oblate meeting.” Gregory and Rachelle were drawn to the idea of being oblates through their study of the Rule at Benedictine College. They were exposed to the Benedictine way of life through Mass at the Abbey. Gregory and his wife look forward to discerning the life of oblation “I think our life would benefit from being oblates through, first, a community of religious support, and second, a structured discipline to guide our life.” Students are also encouraged to consider life as an oblate. Prior Jeremy said it’s most important to remember that being an oblate is, first and foremost, a calling. “It is a way for anyone to express a love for living the Benedictine way of life,” he explained. “It’s a way to practice their love of the Order for the rest of their lives.” Lieb believes that oblation is a spiritual lifestyle anyone can live: “I have grown in such a huge way because of my devotion as a Benedictine oblate.” She cautions, “Do not assume you won’t need the spiritual help.” Oblates are included in the daily prayers at the Abbey and are welcome to learn about becoming an oblate. There is a standing invitation to attend the next meeting held on July 13th at 10 a.m. in the Abbey Crypt. Please contact Prior Jeremy via e-mail: jheppler@benedictine.edu or by calling 913.360.7830 or visit KansasMonks.org/ oblates for questions or further information.
“As long as you are willing to glorify God through [the] Rule, Oblation is a spiritual lifestyle anyone can practice.”
Society of St. Benedict
15
Make
Evangelization
by Vaughn Kohler
a Habit
Do you have to wear a black hood to evangelize the world? Certainly not. Although the Rule of St. Benedict is meant to guide the daily life of a community of monks, the principles can be applied vibrantly and effectively outside the walls of a place like St. Benedict’s Abbey. You may not wear a habit, but you can make evangelization a habit.
5
ways to evangelize like a Benedictine monk:
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Kansas Monks
1
Host a Dinner Party
Everybody knows that one of the core Benedictine values is hospitality. If you want to create an opportunity to share the love of Christ, host a dinner party. But here’s the catch: Don’t just invite people you know and love. Invite people who are new to your neighborhood or community, or even someone with whom you’ve had tension or a disagreement. At Mass we pray, “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof; but only say the word, and my soul shall be healed.” Though we are sinners, Jesus Christ is willing to dine with us, and the food that we eat is his own flesh and blood, given for our salvation. We should demonstrate the same kind of charity to others. As we eat, drink, and talk with our guests, we can show them the warmth and compassion of our Lord, “welcoming all guests as Christ himself ” (RB 53:1). Your home can be a place of love, your dinner table a tool for evangelization. Invite people to dine with you; maybe some of them will eventually dine at the Lord’s Table, too.
2
Perfect the Art of Being Considerate
A wise man once told me, “Some people will reject Christianity. But make sure it is not because you act like an inconsiderate jerk.” There are many reasons why someone may not have interest in Christ or the Catholic faith. Hopefully, though, it is not because of our poor social skills. In the Rule, St. Benedict counsels strong reproof for the monk who, in being late to daily prayers, inconveniences the other monks and disrupts the flow of the day (RB 43:4). There are other examples of how one monk’s actions affect the whole community. Even though we do not live in as close a proximity as a monk does to his confreres, our actions affect other people. Seek to be sensitive to the needs and desires of other people. Don’t do anything that will inconvenience them or unnecessarily cause them grief or pain. The simplest way to know if you’ve offended someone? Ask them. If you are a likeable person who is considerate of others, people will be drawn to you—and perhaps to Christ and his Church.
3
Become a Learner and Be Willing to Teach Others.
The Sacred Scriptures talk a lot about being “disciples.” The word disciple actually means “learner.” Benedictines have always valued learning. In the early years, St. Benedict expected his monks to spend two, three, even four hours a day reading. “From the start,” wrote Father Hilary Thimmesh, OSB, “Benedictine life required a certain level of disciplined intellectual activity.” Monks aren’t the only people who are asked to love God with their minds, however; that call extends to us as well. If we take time to learn things about God and his world, we become interesting, compelling, and informed human beings. While we may not be able to answer everyone’s questions about God and faith, we can share some food for thought, which may help other people navigate some of the tricky, scary questions in life. Also, there are a lot of people who are looking for mentors. You don’t necessarily have to teach Sacred Scripture or the Rule. You could teach someone how to bake, play tennis, or run a computer program. When a teacherstudent relationship is formed, you can exercise great influence. When a person feels like you have invested in his life by teaching him something, that is very meaningful! Hopefully, that relationship will inspire others to put their faith in the greatest rabbi— teacher—Jesus Christ.
4
Perform Manual Labor for the Benefit of Others
The Benedictine motto is Ora et Labora—pray and work. Benedictines have always recognized that life should be balanced. It is important to get down on our knees to ask for God’s blessings. It is also important to get out and tend to a crop, paint a fence, or build a shed. Hard work— manual labor—is holy to the Lord. Yet it is especially holy when we perform it for the benefit of others. The Rule states: “service increases rewards and fosters love” (RB 35:1). Manual labor can even serve as a way to reconcile with others. Years ago, I read about a Christian singer named Rich Mullins who was very unique in the way that he reconciled with others. On one occasion, Rich and his manager had a sharp disagreement. Rich apologized—but he went beyond that. Knowing that his manager hated doing yard work, Rich decided to do him a favor. That weekend, his manager looked out his front window to see Rich mowing his lawn! When we perform works of manual labor for others, we put ourselves in the position of a servant. That humble position can melt hearts; it can touch them deeply and inspire them to follow Jesus Christ.
5
Share in the Suffering of Others
In a celebrated passage in the Rule, St. Benedict writes, “Persevering in the Lord’s teaching in the monastery until death, we shall through patience share in the sufferings of Christ that we may deserve also to share in his kingdom.” Simply put, a monk is called to live out the sufferings that Christ himself endured—endured as an act of service to humankind. The monk is not supposed to run away from a world that is suffering because of sin and disobedience, but to enter into its suffering and find redemption. In the same way, we may powerfully influence others, not by running away from their pain and suffering, but by being willing to share in it. Do you know someone who is sick? Visit them. Do you know someone who is depressed or overwhelmed? Lend them your ear. Give them your shoulder to cry on. When people are suffering, they are at their weakest and most vulnerable. They need our help. When we offer them our strength—and even our weakness—in charity, we make a profound impact on them for the sake of Christ.
Go and make evangelization a habit. Act like a monk; impact the world. As a layperson you can practice Benedictine spirituality by becoming an Oblate—for more information see KansasMonks.org/oblates P r i o r J e r e m y H e p p l e r • D i r e c t o r o f O b l at e s Society of St. Benedict
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Benedictine Pastors Serving Their Monastery, Their Parish, Their Church by Audrey Edwards - BC ‘12 The routine of a parish priest and Benedictine monk may seem like a split lifestyle, but for Fathers Roderic Giller, Gabriel Landis, and Gerard Senecal, the two vocations are inseparable. The lives these men lead are simple yet multifaceted, challenging yet fulfilling, resolute and yet a daily choice.
Father Gabriel Landis Before he became a Catholic, Father Gabriel Landis was a Baptist, a Lutheran, a man undecided in his faith. Now the parish priest of St. Joseph’s in Atchison, Father Gabriel had been searching with a head that was as restless as his heart for a true faith to follow. “God calls us to be active, to build up his kingdom,” Father Gabriel said. “We are not just meant to be contemplative. We are called to greatness.”
Father Gabriel explains how he tries to emphasize Benedictine prayer in his parish. “Prior to daily Mass, I start with the Christ-centered experience of adoration. I also place texts in the church pews for the parishioners to read and practice lectio divina, holy reading, on their own.” Before Mass, Father Gabriel completes a holy hour in prayer, practices lectio, and goes over other preparations for Mass. Every now and then, Father Gabriel tries to join fellow monks at the monastery for lunch. “I never thought I’d be a parish priest, my first calling is to my monastery, then as shepherd to my congregation,” he noted. “However, monks were originally called to build and start parishes in Kansas to establish a community. I do my best to serve both.” The angel Gabriel’s messages of “be not afraid” and “everything will be possible with God” are very close to Father Gabriel’s heart. As part of his Benedictine spirituality, he tries to say individual prayers through phrases such as these over and over each day. In this way he manifests a balance between prayer and work, allowing each action to become a constant stream of prayer itself. Father Gabirel also combines prayer and work by including aspects of the Rule in his homilies. “I try to preach on the importance of developing a friendship with Christ and how the Benedictine religious life strengthens your interior life.”
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Kansas Monks
Father Roderic Giller “Monks share in a community within the monastery,
just as parishes share in a community life within their diocese,” Father Roderic Giller said. “Even though I am away from the Abbey grounds, I have found community within my diocese. Above all, my first vocation is to be a monk. I practice my monastic call to ora et labora, pray and work, daily. You must consistently have a balance and be focused on the Lord, not on yourself.” Even though not all priests are part of a monastic order, Father Roderic knew he wanted to serve parishes as a monk, as well as a priest. He joined St. Benedict’s in 1956 and has now been a priest for more than fifty years. “For me, it felt so natural,” he said. “Being a Benedictine monk is all I’ve known. It’s all I wanted, and I felt so welcome. I knew I had found my identity, and I intend to live it out for the rest of my life.” Understandably, parish priests are often pressed for time. “Preparation for my homily overlaps with my daily prayers at times,” he said. “But the two in themselves are both centered around the Word of God. I find ways of incorporating them together if I can.” As a parish priest, Father Roderic has assisted in marriage prep, distributed food to the needy, and provided for the sacramental needs of his parish community. As a monk, these are all acts that stem from Benedictine virtues of stability, charity and humility. Father Roderic is constantly living out his Benedictine vocation by way of these virtues. “Discernment is about discovering God’s purpose for you in life,” he said. “You must find God’s calling, one which will fill you with a peace that only he can give.”
Father Gerard Senecal
From College President to Parish Priest, Father
Gerard Senecal has served St. Benedict’s Parish since 1998. “I incorporate my Benedictine calling to work and prayer through my routine here at the rectory,” Father Gerard Senecal said. “I start the day off with the Liturgy of the Hours, then continue to prepare for my pastoral duties.”
Benedictine College President 1972-1987
Father Gerard was president of Benedictine College for fifteen years after Mount Saint Scholastica College and St. Benedict’s Collage merged to form a single institution, a change which brought the Abbey, Atchison community, and students closer together. “Education is the gateway to greater life experiences,” he said. “I have loved seeing the growth and formation of my parishioners. It’s one of the great joys of leading a parish.” Being a monk as well as a parish priest can be challenging, but for Father Gerard, it is more than rewarding. He finds joy in knowing that God is always calling him to a more interior life with him, combining his innermost monastic life with his pastoral vocation. “As a parish priest I am called to keep order and preserve virtue within the parish community,” he said. “Being a Benedictine monk is one way of doing this, being a priest the second.”
Society of St. Benedict
19
More than
$500,000 r a i s e d
“We’ve all said: Give us a man who makes us proud to be Catholic, to live our faith fully, to celebrate the love we share in Christ. And God gave us Barnabas.” story by Joe Akers | photos by Dennis Dunleavy With these words, longtime friend Karen Wuenstel introduced Abbot Barnabas Senecal at the retirement banquet in his honor. On April 27, 2013, the Society of St. Benedict, the monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey and many, many family and friends celebrated together the life of Abbot Barnabas (below with Ceil Patton.) The event raised $519,740 for the benefit of St. Benedict’s Abbey. Almost 550 people joined us at the DoubleTree Hotel in Overland Park, Kansas, to pay tribute to the eighth Abbot of St. Benedict’s Abbey. We gathered to honor a former student, scholar and athlete; a teacher, administrator and pastor. We came to honor a monk-priest and a humble servant. And led by Karen Wuenstel, we sang to the “Singing Abbot.” Will you le t me b e your s er v ant L e t me b e a s C hr i st to you Pray that I mig ht have the g race To le t me b e your s er v ant to o - The Servant Song With a masterful blend of well-wishers on video and appearances by Archbishop Joseph Naumann, Karen Wuenstel and Abbots Barnabas and James, the evening captured the life of Abbot Barnabas in remarkable style. The night highlighted various parts of the Abbot’s life from centerpieces created from the Abbot’s photography to dessert with each serving of cake emblazoned with the Abbot’s coat of arms. Karen Wuenstel led the program with her poem, “And God gave us Barnabas.” (Excerpt on back cover) She shared the Abbot’s story; from birth as a twin in Atwood, Kansas, to his schooling at Maur Hill Prep; from entering the novitiate at the Abbey to serving at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park; from being elected Abbot to his role as confidant and friend, Karen’s poem captured the spirited life of this humble monk. When Karen finished leading us in The Servant Song, she gave him a hug and introduced Abbot Barnabas. And he didn’t disappoint: With ease of spirit Abbot Barnabas drew laughter and applause with stories of his induction into the “Running Revs” hall of fame,
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Kansas Monks
his years as a teacher, administrator and pastor, and of his service as Abbot of St. Benedict’s Abbey. He made us laugh. He made us cry. And as expected, he wanted to sing: Abb a , abb a Father, you are the p otter, We are the cl ay, the work of your hand s … Mold us… mold us and fashion us, into the image of Je su s your s on… of Je su s your s on - Abb a Father Then he shared these words, “We are molded by God, and by those who love us and by those whom we love. We are God’s instruments in molding one another. Thanks to all who have loved me and those who have allowed me to love them.” Abbot Barnabas closed with a tribute to his mother and to all women by asking everyone to join him in singing: Gentle woman, quiet light Morning star so strong and bright Gentle mother, peaceful dove Teach us wisdom, teach us love -Hail Mary, Gentle Woman While honoring Abbot Barnabas, the event also offered the opportunity to support the Abbot Barnabas, Maur & Placid Fund. At St. Benedict’s Abbey this fund addresses a problem that prevents many college graduates from considering a religious calling: educational debt. As Abbot James (at left with Abbot’s Table underwriter John Gillcrist) explained, “this fund provides men the freedom to discern a calling to the monastic life at St. Benedict’s Abbey.” He announced a challenge issued by friends of Abbot Barnabas. “This couple, in honor of Abbot Barnabas, will contribute $100,000 to the Abbot Barnabas, Maur & Placid Fund, if we can raise another $100,000 tonight”. The response was overwhelming, with the event raising $519,740. After banquet expenses, the Abbey development office estimates that your gifts will net approximately $450,000. After humbly sharing the benefit total, Abbot James invited everyone back: “In the Rule of St. Benedict, one of the highest honors is to be invited to the Abbot’s Table. It’s an honor reserved for closest friends and family. That’s the way Abbot Barnabas and I and all the monks think of you, as close friends and family. And so beginning next year, this banquet will be referred to as The Abbot’s Table, to which you all are invited.”
in honor of the
Artful Abbot
I’d like to specifically thank Michael and Patty Morrisey from the Catholic Education Foundation and Sue Durkin from Benedictine College. Their advice and direction were essential for the success of this banquet. It’s easy to see why Gaudeamus and the Benedictine Scholarship Ball are so very successful. Thank you to our chair couples Mike and Lisa Boddicker and Bob and Janet Wholey and to our banquet emcee Joan Charbonneau (at left with Joe Akers). Lastly, thanks to our development staff of Amanda Klein and JD Benning for your extraordinary commitment in making this banquet so memorable for Abbot Barnabas.
Ba n q uet Un d e rw r iter s A bb ot ’ s Ta ble
J . E . D u n n C o n s t r u c t i on Jo h n & Te r r y Gi llc r i s t Michael R. & Marlys Haverty Family Foundation G e n e & A n g el a He g a r t y
Pr i o r’ s Guild
Abbot ’s Ta ble april twenty-sixth two-thousand fourteen A b e n e f i t f o r S t . B e n e d i c t’s Ab b e y
B e n e dic tin e Colle ge
M ike & L i s a B o ddi cker C hair - C ouple
L ar r y & Te re s a Bu e s s i n g B y ro n Th o mp s on & C o u ntr y C l u b B a n k E xch an g e Natio n al B a n k & Tr u s t To m & Mo l l y Fre em a n P. J . & Virg in i a Ke ele y Jim & K atie O ’ Br i en B o b & Jan e t Wh ole y
k ansas
monktv s
C hair - C ouple
Ba n q ue t Steer ing C ommit tee L i s a B o d d icker Su e D u rk i n L au r a Mo cc i a M ich ael & Patty Mor r i s s e y
The Banquet Special w atch it now at : K ansa s monk s .org/t v
K are n Wu e n s tel Ab b o t Jam e s Alb er s Tab l e sp o n s o r s o n p age 22 Society of St. Benedict
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S p i r i t ua l D i r e c t i o n
A book review by Father Justin Dean Recently there has been a noticeable increase in Catholics seeking spiritual direction. If you are interested in this tried and true method that leads to spiritual health and eternal wealth, I suggest reading Navigating the Interior Life, Spiritual Direction and the Journey to God, by Daniel Burke. Archbishop Joseph Naumann endorses this book in saying, “Navigating the Interior Life is an immensely practical book to help a serious Catholic take advantage of the wealth of experience and knowledge of those who have trod the path to sanctity for the past 2,000 years.” This book explains what spiritual direction is, the need for spiritual direction, how to find the right director for you, how to prepare for spiritual direction and how to make the most of it in your daily life. The book is ideal for the pew potato who wants to get more of the spiritual wealth that Jesus Christ has entrusted to his Church. For me, the strongest part of the book is the chapter on “Spiritual Self-Evaluation.” Each sin a person commits has a root cause. In this chapter, Burke explains the concept of “root sins,” thereby helping a person deal with the underlying cause of particular sins and eradicating them at their source! If you want to grow in your spiritual life but never knew where to start, this book is for you.
Spiritual Direction is... • Understanding the general direction of one’s soul • Working with a spiritual guide to help unite one’s soul to God and find peace and joy through the pursuit of His will and ways • A process of growing in holiness - Excerpt from cover of - Navigating the Interior Life
The Banquet
Ta b l e S p o n s o r s Monte Cassino
Koechner Family
Subiaco
Blish-Mize
O’Malley Beverage, Inc.
Bob & Shirley Chenoweth
Stevenson Family Pharmacy
Hank & Susan Keeley
Mark & Barbara Wetta
Knights of Malta - St. Joseph, Missouri
Nursia B ob & B e tty Alb ers
Lathrop & Gage, L.L.P.
Archdio ce s e of Kansa s City in Kansa s
Maur Hill-Mount Academy
Atchison Hospital
Pat Smith & Tom Whalen
Carrigan Family
Stephanie Van Dyne, D.D.S.
Cronan Family
Norm & Shirley Youngberg
Porter’s Circle Sp onsors Ray & Mary Jo Becker
Bernie & Jacqueline Madden
Joe & Colleen Cernich
Michael & Patty Morrisey
Mike & Mary Alice Easterday
Miles Otoupal
Dick & Kathryn Forge
Cecilia Patton
Jack & Rosemary Miller
Tom & Michon Quick
John & Ines Gilbert
Bob & Caroline Reintjes
Hausman Metal Works & Roofing
Steve & Lynn Rus
Larry & Linda Kaminsky
Corky & Molle Stueve
Dave & Sherri Laughlin
Sisters of Charity in Leavenworth
Friends of St. Benedict’s Abbey - Tour to Brazil Make plans now to join Abbot James Albers this coming October 8th – 19th, when he leads the Friends of St. Benedict’s Abbey on a tour to Brazil. Brazil is the 5th largest country in the world and home to largest national population of Catholics, 123 million. Catholic Mass has been celebrated in Brazil since the beginning of the 16th century and Benedictines have been there since 1590. Highlights of the tour will include: the Benedictine Monastery at São Paulo founded in 1600; the shrine to Our Lady of Aparecida, patron saint of Brazil, that has been visited by Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI and soon by Pope Francis; and the city of Rio de Janeiro which will host Pope Francis when he visits for World Youth Day in July. Details of the tour and the itinerary are being finalized, but you can be certain to get the information as soon as it is available by calling Trinity Travel 913 422 4141 to register your interest. Kansas Monks
Paul & Laura Moccia
Zielinski Companies
This book is available at Amazon.com for $12.00
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Mike & Su san G angel
Benedict’s Abbot Owen Purcell
60 years professed
Abbey Notes Monks Named Family of the Year The monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey were named “Family of the Year” by the Benedictine College Knights of Columbus. Michael Pesely, outgoing Grand Knight of the council presented the award, “The monks, as a nontraditional family, provide great support for students, especially those who are away from their families. We are blessed to have them on our campus constantly encouraging the students to grow deeper in their spiritual lives.” Pictured at right: (L to R) Father Meinrad Miller, Michael Pesely, Abbot James Albers, Nathan Patak, Brother Luke Turner.
Classroom Named for Father Bertrand LaNoue Friends and former students of Father Bertrand honored his career as an economics professor with the naming of a classroom in the Ferrell Academic Center.
b o w l i n g b o n a n z a
Over $18,000 r a i s e d
“Father Bertrand represents all the best as an alumnus of the college,” said Stephen D. Minnis, President of Benedictine College. “He entered the seminary and took vows as a Benedictine, he returned to the college as a teacher, he was the head of the economics department for many years, and he served the community as a parish priest. “It is a testament to his long and distinguished career, and to his legacy as a muchloved professor, that he is being recognized by his former students. Benedictine College is pleased to honor him with the naming of a classroom in the new Ferrell Academic Center.”
Prior Leads Students on Mission to El Salvador Prior Jeremy Heppler led a group of 21 Benedictine College students on a trip to Santa Ana, El Salvador. Three homes were built over the course of three days for Community Manuel. In reflecting on the trip Prior Jeremy said, “We go to serve the Salvadoran people; and yet, we come back receiving from them – joy, gratitude, hospitality – more than we gave. “I am so impressed with our group. My favorite part of this trip was watching our group work together, form close friendships, and incorporating the generosity and joy of the Salvadorans in their lives.”
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The students of Benedictine College and the monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey joined forces to host the Second Annual Benedict’s Bowling Bonanza on April 13, 2013, at West Lanes in Atchison, Kansas. $18,346 was raised for the Abbot Barnabas, Maur and Placid Fund.
Society of St. Benedict
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St. Benedict’s Abbey Atchison, Kansas 1020 N. 2nd Street, Atchison, KS 66002 Kansas Monks USPS 290-760
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Abbey Development Office 913.360.7908 KansasMonks.org
Summer 2013 | Volume 8 | Number 2 excer pt f rom
And God Gave us Barnabas
by Karen Wuenstel ( at r ight)
Be careful what you do or say, or share with this dear man Your day or trip may soon end up in a homily he’ll plan We know he, too, is master of the winsome, groaning pun He’s always good for a laugh or joke, he simply loves the fun But no one near can laugh as hard as he does at a joke And when the finger points at one, it’s he the joker pokes His tender heart is known by all to quickly bring a tear He cries, we know, at the drop of a hat, that makes him just more dear His golden voice would lift in song, his laugh would fill the air He’d sit as easily with those of power, or a kitchen table share And could we ever count the list of those he did confirm? He’d ease the fears of boys and girls who maybe want to squirm He’d shake a hand, a shoulder touch, a smile he’d send their way And every one of them would think he was there for them that day He’d lift that sacrament in song, the time would seem to fly He had a way of making sure to look them in the eye And it’s just that, the personal touch, that most of us recall Whether on the racquetball court, or at a formal ball You know you’ve been in the presence of a simple man, but great A man who holds you in his heart, a man no one could hate We know it’s said the primary task of a monk is to seek God We’ve seen you search along the way, and some of us did prod We’ve watched you grow into the man who every single day Could help us know that living life is the best that we could pray You see, this man is one of us, he’s just like you and me He might be often dressed in black, he might be at a tea He’s been for us that one so rare, a man we’re blessed to know We sing you now, as you have us, you’ve served us all to grow And we’ve all said, “Give us a man who makes us proud to be Catholic, to live our faith fully, to celebrate the love we share in Christ!” And God gave us Barnabas. 24
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