Greetings and welcome to our Summer 2024 edition of the Midwest Augustinian Magazine. As the Prior Provincial of the Midwest Augustinians, I am delighted to present this collection of stories from across our ministry sites.
Summer is a season of exploration and connection, and within the pages of this issue, you will find articles that capture the essence of this vibrant time of year. Much like the students at our Augustinian schools, we’re encouraged to spend time outside our common places of life, work, and study to experience the beauty of God’s creation.
I extend my sincere appreciation to all members of our faith community who participated in our Legacy Campaign, our 2024 Capital Campaign, which has raised over $2.3 Million to support our goals of supporting our Vocation and Evangelization work. We continue our efforts to reach our $2.5 Million stretch goal and hope you will support this essential campaign.
Whether you’re reading this lounging in the sun or seeking shade from the heat, I encourage you to take a moment consider how you may be called to engage with our community. Our new Director of Lay Engagement, Maryellen Harrington, would be happy to meet you and invite you to be more involved with us.
Thank you for being a valued member of our Augustinian community. Your support is truly appreciated.
Wishing you a summer filled with warmth, joy, and meaningful connections in the spirit of St. Augustine. Prayers of thanks for you,
Very Rev. Anthony Benedetto Pizzo, O.S.A. Prior Provincial
4
Around the Province
Student Augustinian Values Institute Retreat
Religious Vocation "Speed Dating" at Northwestern University
Province Library Opens
6 8
Augustinian Studies Impact of COVID-19 on Spirituality & Religion
First Communion Retreat at St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel
All Invited to International Congress in Rome
Women's and Men's Retreats: You're Invited
All Are Welcome: Lay Engagement
Cover: Br. David Relstab, O.S.A., at his Solemn Profession Mass, distributes Holy Communion to his father.
Legacy Campaign Nears Goal
Campaign Donor Recognition
Tribute & Memorial Gifts
The Solemn Profession of Br. David Relstab, O.S.A.
2024 Gala Recap & Photos
Men in Formation Serve at Ronald McDonald House 18
Advancement Corner: One Mind, One Heart Society 10 14 16 20 22 24
Vicariate of Chulucanas in Peru Inaugurates Philanthropic Office
Vocation Ministry in a Digital Age: Our Online Outreach
In Memoriam 25
En Español 26
¡Todos son bienvenidos!
Midwest Augustinian Oficina de Participación Laica
La campaña de Legado se acerca al objetivo
La Profesión Solemne del Hno.
David Relstab
En la comunidad: Hombres en formación sirven en la Casa
Ronald McDonald
The Midwest
THE MIDWEST AUGUSTINIAN Summer 2024
The Midwest Augustinian is a publication of the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel. For additional copies, or to unsubscribe, please contact the Province Office:
Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel 10161 S. Longwood Drive, Chicago, IL 60643
PHONE 872-265-1100
WEB www.midwestaugustinians.org
MIDWEST AUGUSTINIANS
PRIOR PROVINCIAL
Very Rev. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A.
PROVINCE COUNSELORS
Rev. Raymond J. Flores O.S.A.
Rev. William E. Lego, O.S.A.
Rev. John D. Merkelis, O.S.A.
Rev. Bernard C. Scianna, O.S.A.
Rev. Jack B. Tierney, O.S.A.
Rev. Richard Young, O.S.A.
PROVINCE SECRETARY
Br. Nicholas J. Mullarkey, O.S.A.
PROVINCE TREASURER
Rev. James R. Halstead, O.S.A.
PROVINCIAL OFFICES
VOCATION MINISTRY OUTREACH
Rev. Thomas McCarthy, O.S.A.
Rev. Jack B. Tierney, O.S.A.
CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER
Mr. Edward Barrett
MANAGER OF DONOR RELATIONS
Ms. JoAnn Altenbach
FINANCE OFFICE
Mr. Patrick Griffin
DIRECTOR OF LAY ENGAGEMENT
Mrs. Maryellen Harrington
MAGAZINE PRODUCTION
Mr. Rory Dayton
We, the Augustinians of the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel, are members of the worldwide Order of St. Augustine in the Roman Catholic Church. Centered in the Eucharist and prayer, we search for God in community by sharing our lives, goods and spiritual journey with each other and the people of God. In harmony of mind and heart on our journey toward God, our experience of common life flows into and shapes our ministries. We continue to serve the Church in schools, parishes and missions as we seek to discern new paths of service to which God calls us.
As we enjoy the summer of 2024, our parishes, schools, and ministries continue to be active. Our Friars have been busy supporting our various ministries, and our communities have been celebrating their Augustinian heritage and traditions. The following sections include quick recaps of what’s been going on around the Province. To stay up to date with the most recent happenings, subscribe to our e-newsletters, daily reflections, and social media accounts by visiting our website at www.midwestaugustinians.org
Every year, students from all ten Augustinian secondary schools are selected to attend the Student Augustinian Values Institute (SAVI) retreat, which is held at one of the schools. This year, SAVI was hosted at Malvern Preparatory School in Malvern, PA, from Thursday April 11 to Sunday, April 14, 2024.
During this long weekend retreat, students encounter the Augustinian tradition of education and core values of Truth, Unity, and Love in community with each other.
This student-led conference is an opportunity for young members of the Augustinian community to discuss and reflect how their faith impacts their educational journey –and to share ways that each school is putting that faith into action.
This year, Director of Lay Engagement for the Midwest Augustinians, Maryellen Harrington, was able to attend the conference and join in community with the students.
“I'm thankful for the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with colleagues who share our commitment to the mission and values of our schools,” said Maryellen. “It was an important opportunity to connect, build relationships and learn how I can serve our schools.”
The students attending SAVI also had the opportunity to engage in a day of service, this year held at Thorncroft Equestrian Center, which hosts riding programs for people of all abilities.
Students cleared fields of debris and obstacles.
Putting Augustinian values at the forefront of faith, service, and community was an important part of this experience according to Maryellen.
“It's clear to me that, as Augustinians, when we align ourselves with our Catholic identity, specifically around St. Augustine, we can create a truly transformative educational
experience for the young people and the families we serve,” she said. “It was heartening to see so many schools coming together around the theme of growing not only in academic disciples but in faith.”
Learn more about the Augustinian Values Institute on our website at this link: https://www. midwestaugustinians.org/augustinianvalues-institute.
In February, Br. David Marshall, O.S.A., joined with members of other religious communities to host a “Speed Dating” event at Northwestern University’s Sheil Catholic Center for students to talk with vocation ministers about religious life. Br. David was joined
by a group of eight other religious, who shared with attendees their faith journeys and vocation stories.
“It was a blessing to engage in discussion with the students’ authentic questions about religious life,” said Br. David. “There was such a diversity of religious life
vocations there, and I felt honored to represent our Augustinian, mendicant perspective.”
For more information about Augustinian Vocations, or about becoming a Friar, visit our Vocation website: www.beafriar.org
In late April, 2024, our Province Librarian and Archivist, Br. Thomas Taylor, O.S.A., officially opened the Province Library. The library is located on the second floor of the Province Offices and includes many books by St. Augustine, about St. Augustine, and about the Augustinians. There are also a number of free books on various topics. The library is open by appointment.
The library, which is mandated by the Constitutions of the Order, is an extensive resource for learning about the thought of St. Augustine and the history of the Augustinian Order. In addition to books, the library also contains scholarly periodicals with Augustinian themes, such as Analecta Augustiniana, Augustinian Studies,
Augustiniana, The Tagastan and its successor, Augustinian Heritage, and Acta Ordinis.
Br. Tom has put countless hours into this project. Many of the library’s books came from the old Tolentine Library and had to be transported, sorted, and cataloged after leaving the basement of St. Rita High School.
The library’s first “Featured Book” is The Monastic Rules: Augustine of Hippo. Published in 2004 as a collaboration by Augustine scholars Gerald Bonner, Fr. George Lawless, O.S.A., and Sr. Agatha Mary, SPB, The Monastic Rules features recent research on the Rule of Augustine as well as several interesting tidbits about how the values of the Rule were
put into practice in Augustine's time, drawing from the landmark research on Augustine’s Rule by Luc Verheijen, O.S.A.
After reading the book, Br. Tom has prepared a fun quiz to test your knowledge. Scan the QR code below to access the quiz or find it on our website at www.midwestaugustinians.org
To visit the library, get a tour or to learn more about the Province Library, you can email Br. Tom at ttaylor11406@gmail.com.
SCAN HERE TO TAKE THE QUIZ >
On April 26, 2024, Fr. Jack Tierney, O.S.A., presented at the Graduate Research Symposium at St. Louis University, where he is completing his doctorate in Public and Social Policy. Fr. Jack studied the effects of COVID-19 on indicators of faith and published a poster titled “Impact of COVID-19 on Spirituality and Religion.”
“I was interested in research on spirituality because I was ordained in 2020 and began my priesthood with empty Churches because of gathering restriction [due to COVID-19],” said Fr. Jack. “This was concerning. But it also shows the calling for the Church to be a spiritual community – especially in the trials of human adversity.”
Conclusions from the study reinforce a statistically significant relationship between feeling thankful for blessings and both membership in a religious group and attendance at religious services. However, Fr. Jack did not discover a statistically
significant relationship between the number of COVID-related adverse events and feeling thankful or praying more.
“I was surprised that COVID did not make people pray more,” said Fr. Jack. “Given the number of adverse events that people faced (losing their job, reduction in income, and mental effects of isolation), I expected that religious persons would seek consolation in their faith. While they may have participated in other spiritual activities, this did not primarily take the form of prayer.”
This is an important topic – both for the Church universally and for the Augustinian Order. Considering ways to
minister to a broader community that is increasingly secularized or institutionally disaffiliated informs how the Augustinians engage with lay members from all walks of life – something Fr. Jack is especially interested in.
“I am interested in how we serve as resilient communities of faith,” he says. “We have been through crises and pandemics before – and still the Church offers spiritual consolation to all who believe. As an institution, we want to provide every opportunity for believers to deepen their faith and come to know God in their lives.”
In April, 2024, Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A., and Mary Jo Jenkins hosted 150 families from parishes across the Chicago Archdiocese at the 2nd Annual First Communion Retreat at the St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel. First Communicants learned about the Eucharist, sang songs, did crafts, and listened to talks about the saints featured at the Shrine. Families participated in conversations about the sacraments; Christ's love for us; the Sanctuary, Altar, and the Tabernacle.
Parents and First Communicants deepened their understanding of Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist and fostered a devotion to the Eucharistic in their hearts.
The International Commission for the Pontifical Patristic Institute and Augustinian Studies is hosting an International Congress in Rome (Nov 18-23). This conference is titled "Sub regula Augustini: the reception in the Order of the figure and doctrine of St. Augustine on religious life throughout history." This event is open to all professed and lay members of the Augustinian family. Registration is open until June 21.
The following is an excerpt from an invitation from the Augustinian Prior General, Alejandro Moral Antón, O.S.A.
It is with great pleasure that I announce to you the celebration of an International Congress promoted and organized by the International Commission for the Pontifical Patristic Institute and Augustinian Studies, in collaboration with the Augustinian Historical Institute. The theme of the congress will be "Sub regula Augustini": the reception in the Order of the figure and doctrine of St. Augustine on religious life throughout history, and will take place at the Pontifical Patristic Institute "Augustinianum" in Rome from November 18-23, 2024.
This congress was born from the desire of deepening the indispensable role that the figure and teachings of St. Augustine have played in religious life and in the development of the fundamental characteristics of the Orders and congregations of the Augustinian Family throughout the centuries.
This is an academic event that seeks to offer the Augustinian Family an opportunity to approach this fundamental theme and to deepen, by means of a scientific re-reading of the sources, the impact that the saint of Hippo has had on the consecrated life in the different epochs of the multicentury existence of Augustinian religious life.
< Scan to Register
Please join the Midwest Augustinians at the Carmelite Spiritual Center in Darien, Illinois for our Annual Women’s Retreat June 28-29th, 2024.
The Carmelite Campus features over 40 acres of grounds, including beautiful Stations of the Cross and a number of prayer stations and sacred spaces throughout the grounds. It will be a great time to step back from the ordinary to experience something extraordinary.
Our retreat is the “right size” for everyone; allowing for you to join us beginning Friday evening 4pm or for the day beginning Saturday morning at 8am. We hope you will be with us for the extended time but we welcome all no matter their availability.
Our retreat will be facilitated by Bonnie Leightly and Fr. James Halstead, O.S.A.
Bonnie Leightly is an Augustinian Affiliate and serves at Cascia Hall Preparatory School. Bonnie serves in Campus Ministry directing retreats and Augustinian values and mission driven initiatives.
Fr. Jim Halstead holds doctorates in religious studies and moral theology from the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, (Louvain, Belgium). He has served as associate pastor, university professor, weekend associate, province counselor and is now Treasurer of the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel.
Scan below to register:
Save the date of September 21-22 for a Men's Retreat! Details are to be announced.
As the new Director of Lay Engagement, I am excited to begin connecting with all our Augustinian Family at our parishes, schools, and at large.
As a member of our community, you are an integral part of our shared commitment to deepening our connection with our faith and supporting one another in our spiritual journeys. I am new to the Augustinian family and would welcome a chance to get to know you better. Please do not hesitate to call or email me to schedule a time to connect and introduce yourself. My contact information is below, I hope you will reach out and introduce yourself, share how you are connected to the Augustinians and more.
Until then, here's what you can expect from the new Midwest Augustinian Office of Lay Engagement.
Spiritual Enrichment: You will be invited to opportunities that deepen your understanding of our faith, engage in meaningful discussions, and nurture your spiritual growth.
Supportive Community: You'll find a welcoming and supportive environment where you can build meaningful relationships, find
encouragement during challenging times, and celebrate moments of joy and gratitude together as members of our Augustinian family.
Service and Outreach: You'll have opportunities to participate in service projects that proclaim the Gospels and embody the Augustinian charisms of truth, unity, and love.
I want to encourage you to join us for our upcoming gatherings. This summer we will be hosting a women’s retreat, outdoor Mass and more. To stay informed about these events and more, email me or simply scan the code at the bottom of this note with your phone to be added to my newsletter list.
I look forward to meeting you in person. Please do not hesitate to call my office to chat or schedule a time to connect in person to simply get to know one another. Until then, please allow our Augustinian Friars to pray for you on special occasions such as Birthdays and Anniversaries and introduce yourself by scanning the QR code or visiting:
https://forms.gle/ XP5BFUUHFx3J4wm69
Maryellen Harrington, M.A.P.S, L.E.M Director of Lay Engagement 1-773-614-5880
"You can push us over the top!"
The Province’s Legacy Campaign, directed toward supporting our vocation efforts, our current men in formation, and reaching more people with the Augustinian message and values, is nearing its goal. We are at approximately $2.3 million on a goal of $2.5 million – 92% of the way there. As marathon runners know, the last mile is the toughest part of the race. St. Augustine urges us to never be satisfied with anything less than our best. In that Augustinian spirit we ask you please to make a gift to the Legacy Campaign. Maybe you have already given or maybe you have considered it and have yet to make your decision. This is the time to decide. Please take a moment to consider all that is at stake for our future together. This is a rare opportunity to further a great legacy of faith, hope, love, and service.
Please join the nearly three hundred people who have given a resounding “yes” to more vocations, to supporting the formation and education of new Augustinians, and to spreading the word about Christ and Augustine to thousands of others. This is an opportunity to continue a great legacy. The Augustinians have served the Midwest United States for almost 120 years. With your prayers and financial support, that wonderful legacy can be passed on to generations to come. A gift of $3, $2, or $1 a day adds up to a significant impact; pledges over one to five years are also welcome.
There is an envelope in this magazine for your convenience. You can read more about the entire campaign at augustinianlegacy.org. If you have questions please reach out to any of us. Remember, whatever you do will have a great impact for many generations to come. Thank you.
Yours in Christ and St. Augustine,
Fr. Bernie Scianna, O.S.A.
Campaign Co-Chair bernard.scianna@villanova.edu 610-519-4201
Mr. Michael Gerrity
Campaign Director mikewger@gmail.com 312-241-9696
Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A.
Campaign Co-Chair father.tom@midwestaugustinians.org 773-220-4542
Mr. Ed Barrett
Advancement Director ed@midwestaugustinians.org 773-614-5898
Centered in our Augustinian tradition and in the legacy of service entrusted to us, we foresee flourishing spiritual work and joyful growth, enabled by this Legacy Campaign. We are grateful to our generous donors who are making this a reality! The following is a listing of those who have committed to the campaign and reflects pledges and gifts received by May 10, 2024. Please call the Advancement Office with any questions at 773-614-5881 or joann@midwestaugustinians.org.
Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas J. Ahrens, Jr.
Anonymous Donors (8)
Mr. Michael Antongiovanni
Mr. Bassam Barazi
Rev. Brian Barker
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Barrett
Mr. and Mrs. John T. Barry
Mr. Jeff Bartow
Mr. and Mrs. Mark C. Bates
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Beemster
Ms. June Bellina
Mr. and Mrs. Ted C. Berman
Mrs. Anne Berschback
Mrs. Frances L. Biolchini
Dr. Michael J. Bland and Dr. Otto Aldana
Ms. Kathleen Bokar
Dr. and Dr. Ronald J. Bonaguro
Dr. and Mrs. Theodore E. Brasky
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. Brennan, Jr.
Mr. and Bill Brey
Mr. and Mrs. Greg Brinkerhoff
Mr. and Mrs. Dale Brown
Mr. Kenneth L. Brune, P.C.
Mrs. Margaret Burch
Dr. and Mrs. Kevin G. Burns
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Butterworth
Mr. and Mrs. Ken Butts
Mr. William E. Byrnes
Mr. and Mrs. John F. Calhoun
Mr. Jerome Carberry
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Cardamone
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Carroll
Ms. MaryBeth Carroll
Mr. Anthony Chapman
Mr. and Mrs. James F. Christ
Mr. and Mrs. James L. Clarke
Mr. and Mrs. Brett Coppens
Mr. and Mrs. James J. Cosgrove
Mr. Matthew Craig
Ms. Jeri Ann Dauber
Ms. Rita DeAngelis
Mr. and Mrs. Brian D. Deenihan
Mr. Dave Demy and Ms. Margaret Carey
Mr. James H. Dimmitt
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Dombrowski
Mr. and Mrs. John E. Donnan
Ms. Carol A. Earley
Ms. Tiombe Eiland
Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Englert
Mr. Michael Fisher
Dr. and Mrs. William F. Fitter
Ms. Tricia Fitzgerald
Mr. and Mrs. David Floyd
Mr. Edward Flynn
Ms. JoAnn Foertsch Altenbach
Mr. Dennis P. Foley
Ms. Patricia Folland
Mr. and Mrs. James W. Fox
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Franz
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Franzinger
Mrs. Patricia A. Freese
Mr. and Mrs. Roger P. Furey
Mr. and Mrs. John Gaberino, Jr.
Mr. Mike Gacek
Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Gallagher
Mrs. Aracely Garcia and Mr. Saul Corona
Mr. and Mrs. Rocco Gargiulo
Dr. and Mrs. Stephen J. Gawey
Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. Gerrity
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Gerrity
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Gleason
Ms. Veera Gnaneswar Gude
Dr. Thomas Goberville
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Goerling
Ms. Sheila Goosherst
Mr. Joseph M. Grady
Ms. Carol Greer
Ms. Margaret Griffin
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Gross
Mr. Onofre Gutierrez
Mr. and Mrs. John M. Hajek
Mr. Michael J. Hanagan
Mr. and Mrs. John Hannon
Ms. Linda A. Hartz
Mr. and Mrs. E. B. Hastings
Mr. Bruce J. Hattemer
Mr. John L. Hayes
Mr. Thomas J. Healy
Mr. and Mrs. John C. Heitz
Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Hennessy
Mr. and Mrs. Mike Hennigan
Mr. Edgar Hernandez
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Heslinga
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Hickey
Mr. and Mrs. Mark D. Isley
Italian American Executives of Transportation / Vito D'Ambrosio
Jack Properties / James Clarke
Mrs. Irene R. Jacobs
Mr. Christopher Jania
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory J. Jania
Mr. and Mrs. James M. Januszewski
Mr. John Bruce Jarboe
Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Jimenez
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Jones
Mr. and Mrs. Clarence A. Kaplan
Mr. James A. Kaput
Ms. Mary R. Keeling
Mr. Leo F. Kennedy
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick R. Kilcoyne, Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Kill
Mr. and Mrs. Keith Killacky
Mr. and Mrs. Mark P. Kipp
Mr. and Mrs. Wayne G. Klasing
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Knop
Ms. Janet Relstab Kolimas
Mrs. Loretta Koniarz
Mr. Edward C. Kosteck
Mr. and Mrs. Michael G. Krukones
Mrs. Bonnie Krywanio
Mr. Robert J. LaFortune †
Mrs. Ann LaGere
Mr. Richard Lara
Mr. Anthony Lauinger and Dr. Phyllis Lauinger
Ms. Pamela A. Lego
Mr. and Mrs. William Leighty
Mr. Thomas Leo
Mr. and Mrs. John P. Lesnicki
Mr. Robert Letko
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth F. Lewis
Mr. John P. Linane
Mr. Richard C. Linden
Mr. and Mrs. Peter L. Lisnic
Mr. Bernard M. Loftus
Mr. and Mrs. Fran Lolli
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Lovell
Ms. Janet J. Lucas and Mr. John Puskar III
Mr. Howard Ludwig
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Mackay
Mr. and Mrs. Miguel Mariscal
Mr. Robbie Martin
Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Martin
Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Martin, Jr.
Mr. Miguel Martinez
Ms. Annette C. Matuszewski
Mr. John T. McCarthy
Mr. Patrick J. McCarthy
Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A.
The Raymond and Mildred McCarthy Fund
Mr. and Mrs. Donald F. McCormack
Ralph and Frances McGill Fund
Mr. and Mrs. Donald T. McSherry, Jr.
Mrs. Mary McTigue
Dr. and Mrs. J. S. Miller
Ms. Shirley Morbito
Mr. and Mrs. John Morelock
Mr. and Mrs. Phillip M. Morley
Mr. Mark R. Moylan
Mr. and Mrs. Ernest J. Mrozek
Mr. Denis Mucha
Ms. Barbara Muehler
Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Munnich
Mr. and Mrs. John G. Murphy
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Murphy
Mr. Paul R. Napleton
The Napleton Family Foundation
Ms. Sharon Nassin
Mr. and Mrs. Alfonso Navarro
Mr. Bruce Nelson
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Neville
Mr. Kenneth W. Newton
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Nolan
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Norman, II
Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Norrick
Mr. and Mrs. Dale D. Novak
Mr. James G. O'Connor
Mrs. Betty J. Ogrodnik
Mr. Norbert E. Olaska
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Oliver
Mr. Michael J. O'Rourke
Mr. and Lloyd Ottenstroer
Mr. and Mrs. John V. Paris II
Ms. Jessica Patnoudes
Mrs. Maureen Pavletic
Mr. Craig Payne
Mr. and Mrs. Duane R. Pecci
Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Pelayo
Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Persicketti
Mrs. Margaret J. Persicketti
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Peterson
Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. Petkus
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Pigozzo
Ms. Susan J. Pinneke
Mr. and Mrs. John T. Prendergast
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Rastovac
Mr. and Mrs. William Reilley, Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Reimann
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Reins
Mrs. Mary Beth Reiter
Mr. Nicholas Relstab
Mr. and Mrs. James F. Relstab
Br. Arturo R. Rentería, O.S.A.
Mrs. Mary Catherine Reynolds
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Richardson
Ms. Christine Riedl
Dr. and Mrs. John D. Roarty
Dcn. and Mrs. Joseph Roccasalva
Mr. and Mrs. Ramon Rodriguez
The Honorable and Mrs. Francis Rooney III
Ms. Ann L. Rundle
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Saas
Mr. Alejandro Saldivar and Ms. Xenia Escarcia Ortega
Ms. Maria Salinas
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sallade
Mr. and Mrs. Gabe Sanchez
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Sansone
Mr. and Mrs. William C. Santino
Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Santucci
Mr. and Mrs. William L. Schloss, III
Dcn. William J. Schultz
Fr. Bernie Scianna, O.S.A., Ph.D.
Mr. Christopher Scianna and Daryl Buck
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Scianna
Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Scianna
Mr. Trevor Scianna and Ms. Michela Petrosino
Mr. Frank G. Scopelliti
Mr. and Mrs. Dave Seebruch
Mr. Joseph Seliga
Mr. and Mrs. John C. Serafini
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel L. Shamblin
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth W. Shinkus
Mr. Joseph A. Shore
Mr. Keith Sincak
Ms. Cecelia Slezak
Dr. and Mrs. William W. Small
Mrs. Sally J. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Smith
Mr. Zachary J. Smolinski, Sr.
Mr. and Mrs. Adrian Soto
St. Rita of Cascia Parish Staff
Mr. John H. Stark, Jr.
Ms. Christine M. Starkey
Mrs. Brigid Steele
Mr. Richard J. Steinbarth
Ms. Betsy Stetter
Rev. Joseph G. Stobba, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Stobba
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Stoltz
Mrs. and Mr. James Hahn
Mr. and Mrs. Brad H. Stubitsch
Mr. Steve Szymanek
Mr. and Mrs. Terrence J. Taylor
Mr. and Mrs. Don Tendrick
Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Tierney
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory J. Tonner
Mr. Robert Topor and Ms. Rachel Rone
Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Tramontana
Ms. Sandra Trujillo
Mr. and Mrs. John P. Turcich
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Utter
Mrs. Joann F. Van Antwerp
Mr. and Mrs. Harlan R. Vance
Mr. Jerome Vanzeyl
Mr. and Mrs. David L. Vaughan
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur R. Velasquez
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Vogel
Mr. Earl J. Vogel
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Volpentesta
Ms. Greta Wagner
Ms. Joan Walker
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Walsh
Ms. Mollie E. Werwas
Ms. Kathie White
Ms. Oneida M. White
Mr. Joe Williams
Mr. and Mrs. Ward T. Williams
Mr. Don Wiltfong
Mr. Martin H. Wojcik
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Zenthoefer
Mr. John J. Ziemba
In each issue, we recognize the Augustinians, parishes, schools, and individuals that have been honored with a tribute or memorial gift. The following gifts were received between February and April 2024. List a friar in the enclosed envelope with a donation, and he will be recognized in the next issue of The Midwest Augustinian!
Rev. Donald J. Bates, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Faford
Mr. and Mrs. Donald T. Findlay
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Oprzedek
Mr. Martin H. Wojcik
Rev. W. Timothy Cuny, O.S.A.†
Mr. John J. Ziemba
Rev. L. Dudley Day, O.S.A.†
Mrs. Ellen Quinn
Rev. Erwin J. Dodge, O.S.A.†
Mr. Gregory G. Dodge
Br. Mark D. Emken, O.S.A.
Mrs. Marie Slattery
Rev. LaVern J. Flach, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Brian D. Deenihan
Rev. Raymond Flores, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Faford
Mr. and Mrs. Roger R. Sullivan
Rev. John F. Flynn, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Dombrowski
Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Ellingsen
Mr. Richard G. Kinney
Mr. and Mrs. Harlan R. Vance
Ms. Oneida M. White
Rev. John R. Gavin, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth F. Lewis
Rev. Stephen M. Isley, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Mark D. Isley
Rev. William E. Lego, O.S.A.
Dr. and Mrs. Theodore E. Brasky
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen M. Culen
Ms. Pamela A. Lego
Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Norrick
Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Pelayo
Mrs. Margaret J. Persicketti
Mr. Robert J. Schmitz
Mr. Joseph Seliga
Rev. Donald R. Lewandowski, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Faford
Rev. John J. Lydon, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Roger P. Furey
Rev. Thomas R. McCarthy, O.S.A.
Mr. Jerome Carberry
Ms. Rita DeAngelis
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony F. DiLucido, Jr.
Ms. Maria Salinas
Rev. Joseph E. McCormick, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Santucci
Most Rev. John C. McNabb, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Ward T. Williams
Rev. Walter F. McNicholas, O.S.A.†
Mr. Robert J. Schmitz
Rev. John D. Merkelis, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Arseneau
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Knop
Mrs. Marie C. Shroba
Br. Nicholas J. Mullarkey, O.S.A.
Mrs. Sally J. Smith
Rev. James G. Murphy, O.S.A.†
Mr. Michael J. Hanagan
Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Murphy
Rev. John M. Ohner, O.S.A.
Knights of Columbus #9970
(St. Anthony Parish)
Rev. Casimir A. Pazera, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis C. Palgen, Sr.
Rev. William A. Perez, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Norman, II
Very Rev. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A.
Ms. Rita DeAngelis
Ms. Maria Salinas
Br. David Relstab, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Conway
Rev. Michael Schweifler, O.S.A.†
Ms. Pamela A. Lego
Rev. Bernard C. Scianna, O.S.A., Ph.D.
Mr. and Mrs. Mark C. Butterworth
Ms. Rita DeAngelis
Mrs. Bonnie Krywanio
Ms. Christine Riedl
Ms. Maria Salinas
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Sansone
Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Scianna
Mr. Robert Topor and Ms. Rachel Rone
Rev. John L. Seary, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas J. Ahrens, Jr.
Mrs. JoAnn Rodi
Rev. James J. Sheridan, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick F. O'Connor
Rev. Michael J. Slattery, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Faford
Ms. Christine M. Starkey
Rev. Christopher C. Steinle, O.S.A.
Mr. Peter A. Mueller
Mrs. Marie C. Shroba
Rev. Reinhard J. Sternemann, O.S.A.
Mr. and Mrs. John P. Ryan
Rev. R. W. Sullivan, O.S.A.
Mr. and Bill Brey
Mr. and Mrs. Robert D. Faford
Mr. Michael Fisher
Mr. John T. McCarthy
Mr. and Mrs. Donald T. McSherry, Jr.
Mr. John Seper
Mr. and Mrs. Roger R. Sullivan
Br. Jerome A. Sysko, O.S.A.
Ms. Janet Lucas and Mr. John Puskar III
Rev. Theodore E. Tack, O.S.A.†
Dr. and Mrs. John A. Lewis, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Moody
Rev. Frederick H. Taggart, O.S.A.†
Mr. James Kessey
Rev. Henry A. Wierman, O.S.A.†
Mr. and Mrs. Keith Killacky
On April 20, 2024, Br. David Relstab, O.S.A., made his Solemn Profession of Vows to the Augustinian Order at St. Jude Parish in New Lenox, IL. Br. David’s permanent vows were witnessed by his fellow Augustinians, family, friends, and students from his classes at Providence Catholic High School.
As a Solemnly Professed Augustinian, Br. David becomes one with the thousands of Augustinian Friars who, dating back to the 13th century, have committed their lives to the Order.
“To see throughout history all the ways various men and women have followed in the Rule of Augustine, in our spirituality, and have given their lives for the Church for the promotion of the Gospel, for the promotion of life and love… it’s something you just can’t put words to,” said Br. David. “Thinking of the first missionaries that came to the United States, the first men that came to the area that became the Midwest Province, and how as a younger Friar, now it’s up to me to lace up my boots and get out into the vineyard along with my fellow Augustinian brothers: it’s a great charge of how to live out my vocation.”
Br. David made his First Vows to the Augustinian Order on August 2, 2020, after his Novitiate year. He earned his Master’s in Pastoral Studies from Catholic Theological Union (CTU) in 2022 and a Master’s in STEM Education and Leadership from Illinois State University in 2023. He has an undergraduate degree from Ferris State University in Automotive Engineering Technology (2017).
Since 2021, Br. David has been assigned to Providence Catholic High School, where he has been supporting students in Campus Ministry and teaching in the
classroom, a ministry he’s enjoyed and found to be a tremendous joy. Br. David’s first experience at a school was at St. Rita High School, where he lived as an Associate for six months. But Br. David comments that his first true spiritual assignment came earlier, when he first joined the Order.
“My first assignment, really, our first assignment [as Augustinians] is to live with one another, to be in community,” said Br. David. “And from that living as ‘brothers in common,’ the fruits of the Spirit that are kindled through that process then flow out into the people in the communities in which we serve, bringing the message of Jesus Christ, bringing those values of St. Augustine to the greater community.”
And Br. David is actively bringing his talents to the community –both in the faith community and more broadly through his work as an Adjunct Professor at Moraine Valley Community College where he teaches a course on Advanced Automotive Electrical Systems in addition to his position at Providence, or as a Chaplain for Scouting trips in collaboration with Catholic Scouting (Br. David is also an Eagle Scout).
Br. David continues to be ready and open to serve the changing needs of the community, especially now as a Solemnly Professed Augustinian.
“I’m open to the Spirit to see how the Lord's directing us and guiding us to live out our call, to live out His will, to serve the people,” says Br. David. “It has been a tremendous opportunity and invitation so far. And, only the Lord will know where that [invitation] continues to lead and guide me and my brothers.”
Congratulations, Br. David Relstab, O.S.A., for answering your call!
Scan here to view the photo gallery, or visit: midwestaugustinians.org/ photos
On April 19, 2024, over 300 members of the Augustinian community gathered at the 12th Annual Augustinian Gala to celebrate the achievements and contributions of our individual honorees as well as the community at large. The event was held at the luxurious Drake Hotel in Chicago, and all who attended enjoyed good food and drink and the company of community members from across the Midwest Augustinian province.
At the Gala, Fr. William Lego, O.S.A., was honored for his years of service to the Order and his special care for St.
Turibius Parish, where he has served as Pastor for over a decade.
Fr. Walter McNicholas, O.S.A., was honored posthumously for the lasting impact he made on our community with nearly half a century dedicated to education and pastoral care.
Additionally, Greg and Wendy Jania were honored at the Gala in a special way for their support and membership to the Augustinian community, as they were made Affiliates of the Order. Affiliation is the highest honor that the Augustinian Order can bestow upon an individual, and as Affiliates, they share
in all the spiritual benefits of the Order.
Finally, Michael Gerrity, our outgoing Advancement Director and Legacy Campaign Director, was affiliated to the Order for his years of service in a surprise affiliation. He was joined by his family to celebrate this honor.
We are so grateful for this annual opportunity to celebrate our Augustinian community and family. Please save the date for next year’s 13th Annual Gala which will be held again at the Drake Hotel in Chicago on Friday, April 25, 2025.
On Friday, April 12th, 2024, nine Augustinian Friars gathered to prepare and serve dinner to the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s in Streeterville, downtown Chicago.
The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana provide support to families while their children are being treated at local hospitals, offering private rooms, meals, and other amenities.
Br. Nicholas Stone, O.S.A., organized the event for the Augustinians in community at St. Augustine Friary in Hyde Park, Chicago, in response to a volunteering initiative from St. Rita of Cascia Shrine in Philadelphia, PA.
“Volunteering with Ronald McDonald House ‘Culinary Hearts’ was a beautiful way to marry love of food with love of neighbor, and to share that with my community at the theologate and the community at Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s,” said Br. Nicholas.
The friars in attendance helped prepare a menu of BBQ Baked Chicken, Cajun Cabbage, Cornbread, Sweet Potatoes, and a Garden Salad, under the watchful eye of Chef A’Nyssa and Antonio.
Br. Frank Connor, O.S.A., shared the responsibility for baking the cornbread and joked that his time in the Novitiate was good preparation for the cooking and cleaning.
“It feels good to get out of the classroom and do some real ministry, to try to help people and as they're going through really difficult situations for
their families,” Br. Frank said. “This has definitely been a great experience.”
Bishop Dan Turley, O.S.A., agreed.
“These are things that you really dream about, you want things like this to happen,” said Bishop Dan. “It’s great working together as Augustinian Brothers – this is what we’re all about.”
The Ronald McDonald House Charities welcome volunteer groups and have locations across the United States. To learn more about volunteer opportunities in the Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana region, visit www. rmhccni.org
“Volunteering with Ronald McDonald House ‘Culinary Hearts’ was a beautiful way to marry love of food with love of neighbor, and to share that with my community at the theologate and the community at Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s."
- Br. Nicholas Stone, O.S.A.
“I
“It was really refreshing to hear our chef say how well we all work together, really reinforcing the lifestyle. I would do this again, it’s really fun to work together.
– Br. Lou San Vicente, O.S.A.
think this is a really good sign of unity among us [brothers], bringing our community out into the greater community of the world.”
– Br. David Marshall, O.S.A.
“I enjoyed being in the kitchen and following the directions of a Chef who’s very competent and wonderful and working with my brothers."
– Br. Nathan Fernandes, O.S.A.
On March 7, 2024, Prior Provincial Fr. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A., and Fr. Richie Mercado, O.S.A., attended the inauguration of the new John McKniff Philanthropic Office of Development at the Augustinian Vicariate of Chulucanas in Peru.
This inauguration marks a significant milestone in the history of the Vicariate, and for the Midwest Province, and will enable the Vicariate to advance into the future.
The creation of this Philanthropic Office of Development was a joint project between the Vicariate, the Midwest Augustinian Province, and the international development group Spring Rain Global, Inc. The new Office will support the Vicariate’s growing advancement efforts as it becomes financially self-sustaining, an effort that has been underway since the Augustinians first engagement in Peru, in 1963.
Peru, a country with a developing economy, has suffered natural disasters, political instability, and economic uncertainty. Despite these macro-scale challenges, the Augustinians have been successful in evangelizing the local Church in Peru, as well as providing sacraments to the many thousands who the Vicariate serve.
The Midwest Augustinians have supported mission work in Northern Peru since 1963, when the first North American Augustinians arrived.
Fr. John McKniff, O.S.A., the namesake of the new Philanthropic Office of Development, was actively involved in missionary work in Peru for over two decades, from 1972 to 1993. (Fr. John is an Augustinian “Servant of God” – with an active petition to be beatified.) During that time, he helped implement a Pastoral Plan for the Chulucanas Diocese, called New Image of Parish, that was intended to help engage laity in the evangelization work of the mission, to increase the amount of physical space the limited number of priests were able to support.
Each parish was broken up into zones with a local team of lay people
that were trained to educate the rest of their zone about the Holy Sacraments: their history, what they mean, and how to prepare for them. Groups of Augustinians would then visit the dozens (and sometimes hundreds) of zones throughout their parish territory, administering the Holy Sacraments to all those in distant areas.
Some zones can take up to one week to travel to; each zone is visited at least once per year.
In 1986, as these efforts to evangelize bore fruit, the Vicariate of San Juan de Sahagun de Chulucanas was canonically established with communities in the Diocese of Chulucanas, the Archdiocese
of Trujillo, and the Archdiocese of Lima.
Since then, with the growth of the Latin American Church, the Midwest Augustinians have transitioned more responsibility into the hands of the local clergy. In 2010, Fr. Fidel Alvarado, O.S.A. became the first native Peruvian to serve as the Regional Vicar. Presently, the vast majority of Augustinians in solemn vows in northern Peru are native Peruvians.
In 2013, the Vicariate opened Colegio San Agustin (St. Augustine School) in Trujillo, Peru, serving gradeschool-aged students and educating them in the Augustinian tradition and with our core values of Truth, Unity, and Love. The construction of the new school building (which is also the current location of the Development Office) was completed in 2020, and the first students attended in March 2020.
Further expanding the educational footprint in the region, the Augustinians administer Colegio Señor de los Milagros in Pacasmayo and Colegio Santísima Cruz (School of the Holy Cross), a school originally administered by a group of Franciscan Sisters from Iowa. Santísima Crus was reconstructed in February 2023.
During the 60-plus years of mission work in the region, the Midwest Province
has been working to support the selfsustaining efforts of the Vicariate.
In 2022, Fr. Richie Mercado, O.S.A., was commissioned by the Province to assist in evaluating ways to address the economic difficulty of maintaining social and apostolate works across the communities of the Vicariate into the future.
The Province identified the international development firm, Spring Rain Global, to support the establishment of a philanthropy office, to support the financial needs of the Vicariate. As a social enterprise, Spring Rain Global provides financial planning and philanthropy office support to nonprofits around the world.
The Development Office is currently undergoing capacitation training with Spring Rain, a six-pillar process that includes emphasis on leadership and governance, program development and management, philanthropy development, financial planning, database management, and ecosystem building.
The current priorities of the Office include funding scholarships for students, human development capital for teachers and staff in Augustinian schools, infrastructure projects (school chapel, classrooms, etc.), formation
and vocation, and social justice projects (e.g. food pantries in Trujillo and Chulucanas). In the long term, the goal for this Office is to ensure the financial sustainability and viability of the Vicariate as a self-supporting organization.
For more information or to support the efforts of the Peruvian Vicariate of San Juan de Sahagun de Chulucanas, please contact the Advancement Office of the Midwest Augustinians.
In an era dominated by digital communication, the Augustinians have embraced analyticsbased marketing strategies to connect with individuals discerning a call to religious life.
Whether it’s creating long-form content for our vocation website, short-form content for our social media, or bite-sized videos for our TikTok account, the Vocation teams from all three North American Provinces have combined forces to maximize reach and increase awareness of Augustinian vocations.
And it’s working.
Since November of 2022 – when we launched our revised Vocation website (www.beafriar.org) and started tracking our analytics performance – we’ve reached over 450,000 people with our Augustinian messages of community, hope, and opportunities to #beafriar and pursue discernment with our Order. And, even more importantly, we’ve been contacted by over 200 men who are interested in exploring their vocation.
Here’s what our digital vocation ministry looks like.
The first step in our digital marketing strategy is creating awareness of the Augustinian Order. And, to create this awareness, we need to be where people spend a significant (and increasing) amount of time: online.
Understanding that many potential vocation discerners – especially young adults – spend time online, we strategically create content for social media platforms, our website, and digital advertisements to introduce the Augustinian way of life to the world and to capitalize on a growing interest in the Order’s spiritual father, St. Augustine.
Engaging and visually appealing content, such as videos showcasing the stories and the daily life of Augustinian friars, is spread across our Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram accounts.
This content helps to capture attention and build interest among men who may be in the early stages of discernment, as well as evangelizing to the general public.
As individuals progress through the awareness stage, we transition to the consideration stage of the marketing funnel. Here our focus shifts from providing general “edutainment” content about the Order to more in-depth insights into Augustinian spirituality and religious life, as well as ministries in which the Order is engaged.
We leverage our search-engine optimized website as a hub for detailed content, offering articles, testimonials, and opportunities for connection and events on our site.
People find our website either organically (via Google searches about St. Augustine or about the steps required to become a friar, for example), or because we’ve placed advertisements online for relevant search keywords, to ensure we’re at the top of search results (online ads are funded by a Google for Nonprofits grant).
Webinars and contact opportunities with current Vocation Directors provide a personalized touch, allowing potential discerners to engage directly with members of the Order, to ask questions and further understand their call.
In the decision stage, we aim to facilitate further personal connections between potential discerners and the Order. After getting in touch with us via our website, we pair individuals with experienced Vocation Directors to help guide them through their discernment journey and application process to the Augustinians.
Additionally, targeted email campaigns and newsletters (sent to over 1,500 subscribers) keep potential discerners informed about ways to explore and experience the Augustinian way of life firsthand.
These efforts are designed to encourage commitment and help individuals make informed decisions about their vocational call. Even in a digital age, nothing is more important than this personal connection and interaction.
The culmination of the vocation journey is the action stage, where, through mutual discernment with the Vocation Director, individuals decide to formally apply to join the Augustinians. The Order ensures a seamless application process through user-friendly digital-enabled applications that can be filled out on a computer rather than with pen and paper.
Regular communication with applicants, both online and offline, creates a sense of belonging and support. The Augustinians also use digital mediums – like video calls, texting, and emails – to connect applicants with their future brothers in faith.
This final stage is crucial, as it marks the transition toward initial formation in the Order, and, again, takes significant prayer, consideration, and collaboration between the discerner and the Vocation Director.
If God is calling you – or if you know someone whom God is calling to be an Augustinian – contact vocations@ augustinian.org or visit www.beafriar.org to learn more.
less than the price of a cup of coffee...
Did you know that the Midwest Augustinians benefit from the generosity of a group of special friends? More than 160 individuals are members of the One Mind, One Heart Society of donors! Members believe in the mission and charism of the Augustinians, and they support it through financial contribution and prayer for the Augustinians in formation, for an increase in vocations, and for our ministries.
Members of the Society make an annual commitment of $1,000 or greater in support of all that we do including our men in formation and vocations, retired and infirm Augustinians, and our missions in Peru.
The names of members of the Society are engraved on the One Mind, One Heart Society plaque that adorns the hallway of the Midwest Augustinian offices in Chicago and members are kept in the daily prayer intentions of the Augustinians.
One Mind, One Heart Society members enjoy these benefits:
• The knowledge that they are helping to advance the mission of the Church and the Augustinians,
• Invitation to an annual One Mind, One Heart Society Mass and reception,
• Invitations to special retreats and pilgrimages led by Augustinians.
For less than the price of a cup of coffee… just $2.73 per day, or $83.33 per month you can become a member of the One Mind, One Heart Society. You can make a single gift or a recurring gift to spread out over the year.
For more information contact Ed Barrett, Advancement Director, at 773-614-5898 or go to the OMOH webpage www. midwestaugustinians.org/giving-societies
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
Our prayers are with the family, friends, and community of our dearly deceased.
Connor Fitzmaurice
Connor P. Fitzmaurice, former OSA Novice for the Midwest Province, passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. He was 25 years old. Connor was an old soul with deep faith. He was smart, funny and never did anything unkind to anyone. Connor was honest and felt things deeply.
Sr. Lourdine Ramoska, SSC
Sr. Lourdine Ramoska, SSC (Sisters of St. Casimir), passed away on March 5, at 101 years old. March 4 was the feast of St. Casimir, and while the Sisters at Franciscan Village were gathered for Mass on the day after, Sister Lourdine was called home. She had a beautiful way of making anyone feel welcome and appreciated.
Rev. Robert William Gavotto, O.S.A.
Rev. Robert Gavotto O.S.A passed away on March 4th at Nazareth House in San Diego after a relatively short period of kidney failure. Fr. Bob was a member of the California Province. In addition to his being an avid fan of Saints athletics, he was also drawn to the of allure of the high seas, having served as a cruise chaplain more than thirty times, and alternating those with long visits to Hawaii during his retirement.
Rev. James MacDougall, O.S.A.
Fr. Jim (a member of the Villanova Province) passed away on Mach 9, 2024. He found blessing and joy in the simple things like traveling with his brother, solving the NY Times crossword puzzle, walking to the Goodwill store in the Bronx to browse through used books, or simply sitting in quiet prayer. Fr. Jim passed away peacefully at the St. Thomas of Villanova Monastery.
Matthew Coughlin, O.S.A. Affiliate
Matthew Coughlin passed away on March 13, 2024. He was 70 years old. Matt was a close friend and benefactor of the Augustinians and Cascia Hall for many years. He became an Affiliate of the Order in 2006. He was on the Province Advancement Council from 2012-2021. Last April, he and his wife, Peggy, were Honorees at the Annual Augustinian Gala.
Robert J. LaFortune, O.S.A. Affiliate
Robert "Bob" J. LaFortune, OSA Affiliate and former Tulsa Mayor, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2024. He was 97 years old. Mr. LaFortune was a major supporter of Cascia Hall through the years, having served on various committees for the school. He was also a Trustee of the Augustinian Midwest Province and was affiliated to the Augustinian Order on April 25, 1983, in recognition of his friendship with the community at Cascia Hall and his service to the Church and the school.
Rev. James Wenzel, O.S.A.
Fr. Jim Wenzel (Villanova Province) passed away on April 24, 2024. He will be remembered for his encouragement and support for students in every level of Augustinian formation. His boundless energy engaged and involved many people to serve the church in a variety of ministries. After a prolonged period of declining health, he passed over to the Lord on April 24, 2024, the Feast of the Conversion of St. Augustine.
Saludos y bienvenidos a nuestra edición de verano de 2024 de la revista Midwest Augustinian. Como Prior Provincial de los Agustinos del Medio Oeste, estoy encantado de presentar esta colección de historias de todos los sitios de nuestro ministerio.
El verano es una temporada de exploración y conexión, y en las páginas de este número encontrará artículos que capturan la esencia de esta vibrante época del año. Al igual que los estudiantes de nuestras escuelas agustinas, se nos anima a pasar tiempo fuera de nuestros lugares comunes de vida, trabajo y estudio para experimentar la belleza de la creación de Dios.
Extiendo mi más sincero agradecimiento a todos los miembros de nuestra comunidad de fe que participaron en nuestra Campaña Legado, nuestra Campaña Capital 2024, que ha recaudado más de $2.3 millones para apoyar nuestros objetivos de apoyar nuestro trabajo de Vocación y Evangelización. Continuamos nuestros esfuerzos para alcanzar nuestra meta de $2.5 millones y esperamos que apoyen esta campaña esencial.
Ya sea que estés leyendo esto descansando al sol o buscando sombra para protegerte del calor, te animo a que te tomes un momento para considerar cómo puedes ser llamado a involucrarte con nuestra comunidad. Nuestra nueva Directora de Participación Laica, Maryellen Harrington, estará encantada de conocerlo y invitarlo a involucrarse más con nosotros.
Gracias por ser un miembro valioso de nuestra comunidad agustiniana. Su apoyo es realmente apreciado.
Deseándole un verano lleno de calidez, alegría y conexiones significativas en el espíritu de San Agustín. Oraciones de agradecimiento para usted.
MuRev. Anthony Benedetto Pizzo, O.S.A.
Prior Provincial
Como la nueva directora de la Participación Laica, estoy emocionada de empezar a conectarme con toda la familia agustiniana de nuestras parroquias, escuelas y en general. Como miembro de nuestra comunidad, usted es una parte integral de nuestro compromiso compartido para profundizar la conexión con nuestra fe, apoyándonos unos a otros en nuestros viajes espirituales. Soy nueva en la familia agustiniana y agradecería tener la oportunidad de conocerlos mejor. No duden en llamarme o enviarme un correo electrónico para fijar una fecha para conectarse y presentarse. Mi información de contacto está a continuación, espero que se comunique conmigo y se presente, y me comparta cómo está conectado con los agustinos y más.
Hasta entonces, esto es lo que se puede esperar de la nueva Oficina de la Participación Laica de los Agustinos del Medio Oeste.
Enriquecimiento espiritual: Se les invitará a participar en oportunidades que profundizaran su comprensión de nuestra fe, en discusiones significativas y en el fomento de su crecimiento espiritual.
Comunidad de apoyo: Encontrará un entorno acogedor y de apoyo donde podrá construir relaciones significativas, encontrar aliento durante tiempos difíciles y celebrar momentos de alegría y gratitud juntos como miembros de nuestra familia agustiniana.
Servicio y extensión: Tendrá oportunidades de participar en proyectos de servicio que proclamen los Evangelios y encarnan los carismas agustinianos de verdad, unidad y amor.
Quiero animarlos a que se unan a nosotros en nuestras próximas reuniones. Este verano seremos anfitriones de un retiro de mujeres, misa al aire libre y más. Para mantenerte informado sobre estos eventos y más envíeme un correo electrónico o simplemente escanee el código al final de esta nota con su teléfono para agregarlo a mi lista de boletines. Estoy deseando conocerlos en persona. Por favor no duden en llamar a mi oficina para charlar o pare fijar la fecha y conectarnos en persona para simplemente conocernos. Hasta entonces, por favor permita que nuestros frailes agustinos oren por usted en ocasiones especiales como en cumpleaños y aniversarios y
preséntense escaneando el código QR a continuación o visitando
https://forms.gle/ XP5BFUUHFx3J4wm69
Gracias,
Maryellen Harrington, MAPS, LEM
Directora de la Participación Laica 1-773-614-5880
“¡Puedes empujarnos hasta la cima!”
La Campaña del Legado de la Provincia, dirigida a apoyar a nuestros esfuerzos vocacionales, a nuestros hombres en formación actuales y que está llegando a más personas con el mensaje y los valores agustinianos, se está acercando a su objetivo. Estamos en aproximadamente $2.3 millones sobre una meta de $2.5 millones: estamos en el 92% de lograrlo. Como saben los corredores de maratón, la última milla es la parte más dura de la carrera. San Agustín nos insta a nunca estar conformes con nada menos que lo mejor de nosotros. Con ese espíritu agustiniano les pedimos por favor, el hacer un regalo a la Campaña del Legado. Tal vez ya lo haya dado o tal vez lo ha considerado y aún tiene que tomar una decisión. Este es el momento de decidir. Por favor tómese un momento para considerar todo lo que está en juego para nuestro futuro juntos. Esta es una rara oportunidad para ir más allá con el gran legado de fe, esperanza, amor y servicio.
Únase a las casi trescientas personas que han dado un rotundo “sí” a más vocaciones, a apoyar la formación y educación de los nuevos agustinos y a difundir la palabra sobre Cristo y Agustín a miles de personas más. Esta es una oportunidad para continuar un gran legado. Los agustinos han servido en el Medio Oeste de los Estados Unidos durante casi 120 años. Con sus oraciones y apoyo financiero, ese maravilloso legado puede transmitirse a generaciones por venir. Una donación de $3, $2 o $1 al día genera un impacto significativo; promesas de uno a cinco años también son bienvenidas.
Hay un sobre en esta revista para su conveniencia. Puede leer más sobre la campaña completa en augustinianlegacy.org. Si tiene preguntas, comuníquese con cualquiera de nosotros. Recuerde, cualquier cosa que haga tendrá un gran impacto para muchas generaciones venideras. Gracias.
Fr. Bernie Scianna, O.S.A.
Copresidente de la Campaña del Legado bernard.scianna@villanova.edu 610-519-4201
Mr. Michael Gerrity
Director de la Campaña del Legado mikewger@gmail.com 312-241-9696
Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A.
Copresidente de la Campaña del Legado father.tom@midwestaugustinians.org 773-220-4542
Mr. Ed Barrett
Director de Avance ed@midwestaugustinians.org 773-614-5898
El 19 de abril de 2024, más de 300 miembros de la comunidad agustiniana se reunieron en la 12ª Gala Agustiniana Anual para celebrar los logros y contribuciones de nuestros homenajeados individuales, así como la comunidad en general. El evento se celebró en el lujoso Hotel Drake de Chicago y todos los que asistieron disfrutaron de buena comida y bebidas en compañía de los miembros de la comunidad de toda la Provincia Agustina del Medio Oeste.
En la gala, el P. William Lego, O.S.A., fue honrado por sus años de servicio a la Orden y su cuidado
especial de la parroquia de San Toribio, donde se ha desempeñado como párroco durante más de una década.
El P. Walter McNicholas, O.S.A., fue honrado póstumamente por el impacto duradero que tuvo en nuestra comunidad con casi medio siglo dedicado a la educación y al servicio pastoral.
Además, Greg y Wendy Jania fueron homenajeados en la Gala de manera especial por su membresía y apoyo a la comunidad agustiniana, ya que fueron nombrados afiliados de la Orden. La afiliación es el honor más alto que la Orden Agustiniana le puede
otorgar a un individuo, y como los afiliados, ellos comparten todos los beneficios espirituales de la Orden.
Estamos muy agradecidos por esta oportunidad anual de celebrar nuestra comunidad agustiniana y familia. Por favor reserve la fecha para la Gala del próximo año que se llevará a cabo nuevamente en el Hotel Drake en Chicago el viernes, 25 de abril, de 2025.
El 20 de abril de 2024, el Hno. David Relstab, O.S.A., profesó sus votos solemnes a la Orden de los Agustinos en la parroquia de St. Jude en New Lenox, IL. Los votos permanentes del Hno. David fueron presenciados por sus compañeros agustinos, familiares, amigos y estudiantes de sus clases en la Escuela Secundaria Católica de Providence.
Como agustino profeso solemne, el Hno. David se vuelve uno de los miles de frailes agustinos que, remontándose al siglo XIII, han entregado su vida a la Orden.
«El ver las maneras en que diversos hombres y mujeres han seguido en la Regla de Agustín a lo largo de la historia, en nuestra espiritualidad, y han dado su vida por la Iglesia para la promoción del Evangelio, y para la promoción de la vida y el amor... es algo que simplemente no se puede expresar con palabras», dijo el Hno. David. «Pensando en los primeros misioneros que vinieron a los Estados Unidos, los primeros hombres que vinieron al área que se convirtió en la Provincia del Medio Oeste, y también, siendo el fraile más joven, ahora me corresponde a mí amarrarme las botas y salir al viñedo junto con mis hermanos agustinos: es un gran cargo de cómo vivir mi vocación».
El Hno. David hizo sus primeros votos a la Orden de los Agustinos el 2 de agosto de 2020, después de un año de estar en el noviciado. Obtuvo su Maestría en Estudios Pastorales de
la Unión Teológica Católica (CTU) en 2022 y una Maestría en Educación y Liderazgo STEM de la Universidad Estatal de Illinois en 2023 una licenciatura de la Universidad Estatal de Ferris en Tecnología de Ingeniería Automotriz (2017).
Desde 2021, el Hno. David ha sido asignado a la Escuela Secundaria Católica Providence, donde ha estado apoyando a los estudiantes en el Ministerio Universitario y enseñando en el aula, un ministerio que disfruta y le trae una alegría tremenda. La primera experiencia del Hno. David en una escuela fue en la Escuela Secundaria Sta. Rita, donde vivió como asociado durante seis meses. Pero el Hno. David comenta que su primera real misión espiritual llegó antes, cuando se unió por primera vez a la Orden.
«Mi primera tarea, en realidad, nuestra primera tarea [como agustinos] es vivir unos con otros, estando en comunidad», dijo el Hno. David. «Y de ese vivir como “hermanos en común”, los frutos del Espíritu que se enciende a través de ese proceso después salir hacia las personas de las comunidades en la que servimos, llevando el mensaje de Jesucristo, llevando esos valores de San Agustín a la comunidad en general».
El Hno. David actualmente aporta sus talentos a la comunidad, tanto en la comunidad de la fe y más ampliamente a través de su trabajo como profesor adjunto en el Colegio Comunitario Moraine Valley en el cual imparte un curso sobre Sistemas
Eléctricos Automotrices Avanzados además de su puesto en Providence, o como capellán para viajes de exploración en colaboración con el Movimiento Scout Católico (el Hno. David también es un Eagle Scout).
También continúa dispuesto y abierto a atender las necesidades cambiantes de la comunidad especialmente ahora como agustino profeso solemne.
«Estoy abierto al Espíritu para ver cómo el Señor nos dirige y guía para vivir nuestro llamado, para vivir su voluntad, servir al pueblo», dice el Hno. David. «Ha sido una tremenda oportunidad e invitación hasta el momento. Y, sólo el Señor sabrá hacia dónde esa [invitación] nos continúa dirigiendo y guiando a mí y mis hermanos».
Felicitaciones, Hno. David Relstab, O.S.A., por responder a su llamada.
El viernes 12 de abril de 2024, nueve frailes agustinos se reunieron para preparar y servirle la cena a las familias que se hospedan en la Casa Ronald McDonald cerca del hospital Lurie Children's en Streeterville, en el centro de Chicago.
Las organizaciones benéficas de la Casa Ronald McDonald de Chicago y del noroeste de Indiana brindan apoyo a familias mientras sus hijos reciben tratamiento en hospitales locales, ofreciendo habitaciones privadas, comidas, y otras comodidades.
El Hno. Nicholas Stone, O.S.A., organizó el evento junto con los agustinos en comunidad en el convento de San Agustín en Hyde Park, Chicago, en respuesta a una iniciativa de voluntariado del Santuario de Santa Rita de Casia en Filadelfia, PA.
«Ser voluntario en Culinary Hearts de la Casa Ronald McDonald fue una hermosa manera de unir el amor a la comida con amor al prójimo, y compartir
eso con mi comunidad en el seminario y en la comunidad en la Casa Ronald McDonald cerca de Lurie Children's», dijo el Hno. Nicolás.
Los frailes que asistieron ayudaron a preparar un menú de pollo a la barbacoa al horno, repollo al estilo cajún, pan de maíz, camotes y ensalada de la huerta, bajo la atenta mirada de los chefs A'Nyssa y Antonio.
El Hno. Frank Connor, O.S.A., compartió la responsabilidad de hornear el pan de maíz y bromeó diciendo que su tiempo en el noviciado fue una buena preparación para cocinar y limpiar.
«Se siente bien salir del aula y hacer un ministerio real, tratar de ayudar a la gente, ya que están pasando por situaciones
realmente difíciles para sus familias», dijo el Hno. Frank. «Esto definitivamente ha sido una gran experiencia».
El obispo Dan Turley, O.S.A., estuvo de acuerdo.
«Estas son cosas con las que realmente sueñas, quieres que sucedan cosas como estas», dijo el obispo Dan. «Es fantástico trabajar juntos como los hermanos Agustinos que somos; de eso se trata».
La Asociación Casa Ronald McDonald da la bienvenida a grupos de voluntarios y tiene ubicaciones en todo los Estados Unidos. Para obtener más información sobre las oportunidades de voluntariado en el área de Chicago y en el noroeste de Indiana, visite www.rmhccni. org.
«Disfruté estar en la cocina y seguir las instrucciones de un Chef que es muy competente y maravilloso
trabajando con mis hermanos».– Hno. Nathan Fernandes, O.S.A.
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