Augustinian The
Midwest
IN THIS ISSUE:
The First Profession of Vows & New Novices The Sanctuary Community: Supporting Refugees 2022-23 Annual Report Around the Province
Fall 2023
Left to Right: St. Thomas of Villanova Province Prior Provincial Fr. Robert Hagan, O.S.A., The Province of St. Augustine in California Prior Provincial Fr. Gary Sanders, O.S.A., The Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel Prior Provincial Fr. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A., Deacon Michael Riggs, O.S.A.
Letter from the Prior Provincial Very Rev. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A.
Once again, I’m honored to present you, friends of the Midwest Augustinians, with the latest issue of the Midwest Augustinian. Thank you for being a valuable part of our community. Throughout the challenges and opportunities of our times, this community remains one of the strong, central aspects of our Augustinian tradition as we live out our Catholic faith. In the pages of this edition of our magazine, we share stories from diverse corners of our community. From stories about men professing their first vows to our Order to men who have been ordained priests for 70 years to stories about our outreach to young people and our work to support and house refugees. There is room for all in this Augustinian community. And we’re glad you’re a part of it. May the stories within these pages inspire you, challenge you, and remind you of the profound beauty and wisdom that can be found in the Augustinian tradition. Together, let us journey forward, seeking truth, embracing community, and living out the teachings of St. Augustine in our daily lives. Thank you for being a vital part of our Augustinian family. Your presence, your support, and your dedication are truly a source of strength and inspiration for us all.
Very Rev. Anthony Benedetto Pizzo, O.S.A. Prior Provincial
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The Midwest Augustinian
Contents
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Cover: Br. Nathan Fernandes, O.S.A., makes his First Profession of Vows to the Augustinian Order to Fr. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A.
Around the Province
Starting with Service: Cascia Hall Staff Retreat Day
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Serve Each Person: Celebrating 70 Years of Priesthood for Fr. John Flynn, O.S.A.
Introducing Ed Barrett as Our New Director of Advancement The Province Advancement Council Adds New Members
A Sign of Friendship
Legacy Campaign Feasibility Sudy Underway
St. Rita Names Alum Martin Hopkins as Football Program Head Coach
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Advancement Corner
Fellowship & Community at St. Turibius Parish High School Students Use Artificial Intelligence to Start Businesses
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Welcoming New Novices... and Our New Brothers Faith in the Forest: Fr. Jack Tierney, O.S.A.'s LifeTeen Chaplain Experience
Inaugural Augustinian Women’s Retreat A Great Success
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The Sanctuary City: How the Midwest Augustinians and the Chicago Catholic community are supporting refugees. Social Justice is a Vital Part of a Priest’s Vocation: An Interview with Fr. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A.
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An Augustinian Cardinal: Fr. Robert Prevost, O.S.A. 2022-2023 Annual Report
Financial Report Donor Roll One Mind, One Heart Society
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Restless Hearts Society In Memoriam
THE MIDWEST AUGUSTINIAN Fall 2023 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
Mission Statement of the Midwest Augustinians 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.
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AROUND THE PROVINCE As the leaves begin to change and the weather cools, 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
Starting with Service: Cascia Hall Staff Retreat Day
At Cascia Hall College Preparatory School in Tulsa, OK, faculty and staff customarily start each new academic year with a retreat or reflection day together to remind them of their mission and calling as Catholic school educators. This year roughly 75 people started the day at the campus of Catholic Charities.
Staff and faculty toured their facilities where students have served over the years as part of their Caritas service requirements. The group also contributed service in the gardens, the market, and the warehouse on the campus. Further, they reflected together on the basic principles of Catholic Social Teaching
in the work of serving the poor and considered the application of these principles to the work of education at Cascia Hall. Finally, they celebrated Mass and had lunch together. Teachers and staff report that it was a beneficial experience of fellowship and service, a great way to start a new academic year.
Fellowship & Community at St. Turibius Parish
The Corpus Christi Procession celebrates the different nationalities of parishioners.
“Favorite Saint Day” where students in religious education dress up as a saint.
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The parish community at St. Turibius in Chicago, IL, has been active over the past few months, holding events and creating opportunities for fellowship and friendship. This included a trip to see the Windy City Thunderbolts, a local Frontier League baseball team in Crestwood, IL, which was a real hit with those who attended. The Parish Fest was a great opportunity for families to meet and connect, experiencing each others’ cultures and foods. Games and activities were available for people of all ages. St. Turibius also held Fellowship Movie Nights featuring Disney’s “UP” and “Toy Story” with hot dogs and The Midwest Augustinian
snacks provided to attendees. The parish’s annual Corpus Christi Procession was an opportunity for us to celebrate parishioners’ diversity with various altars set up around the block to celebrate the Spanish, English, and Polish-speaking traditions with songs and prayers. Finally, the young people in religious education enjoyed celebrating “Favorite Saint Day,” where they dressed up as their favorite saints and wrote about why they chose that saint as their favorite.
AROUND THE PROVINCE A Sign of Friendship Innovative High School Students Use Artificial Intelligence to Start Businesses
First-Day Mass & the Crosses distributed.
Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox, IL begins every school year with a special mass celebrating The Feast of St. Augustine to welcome the freshmen, transfer students, and new staff members to the school community. The annual mass during The Feast of St. Augustine sets the tone for the academic year as one defined by faith and friendship. New students were able to mingle after a beautiful outdoor mass. Every new member of the Celtic family is given an Augustinian cross (and some ice cream of course) – symbolizing truth, unity, and love. During mass, Father Rich Young, O.S.A. said in his homily: “The cross is not a piece of simple jewelry; it’s a sign of God’s commitment to us and His deep friendship. We are invited to share that friendship with others, and it starts with those right next to you.”
Students in the INCubator program preparing their business concepts for the year.
Students are expanding the boundaries of what was thought possible to be taught within a classroom at Providence Catholic High School in New Lenox, IL. Motivated students with an interest in business have begun the cuttingedge INCubator program; a yearlong, hands-on attempt at starting a business.
Following a year full of guest speakers, workshops, prototyping, marketing, and more students present their ideas to a panel of investors for actual capital. Given the choice to allocate the money to their businesses or college funds, students at PCHS have started the program full of vigor and excitement.
St. Rita Names Alum Martin Hopkins as Football Program Head Coach The football team at St. Rita High School in Chicago, IL is ushering in a new era of innovative play under their new coach, Martin Hopkins. 2009 alum Martin Hopkins succeeds fellow St. Rita alum Todd Kuska who led the team to a state championship in 2006 – a team that included Hopkins as a player. When Kuska called Hopkins to tell him that he was retiring, Martin felt the call to return to his alma mater. Hopkins played college football at Iowa after graduating from St. Rita, and transitioned to coaching after injuries forced him off the field. As the Mustangs begin their regular season this fall, Hopkins’ impact is visible on and off the field. The players have spent more time in the weight www.midwestaugustinians.org
room and the classroom reviewing film during the preseason. Players are excited. “We all get the opportunity to flip the page with a new coach,” says Jett Hilding, quarterback. “I think we’re all using that opportunity to get the best out of this season.”
SRHS Football Head Coach Martin Hopkins ‘09
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Welcoming New Novices... This year, the Augustinian Order in North America is honored to welcome three new Novices: Fr. Cody Ford (Midwest Province), Nick Anderson (Villanova Province), and Javier Medina (California Province). These men will spend the next year living in community at the Good Counsel Novitiate in Radnor, PA. The Novitiate year is a pivotal step in the formation process. As a novice, the candidate wears a white habit and continues to develop his life of prayer and deepen his relationship with God as he lives according to the Rule of St. Augustine and integrates the values and mission of the Augustinians. A key aspect of the Novitiate is Prayer. The emphasis on a life of prayer does not minimize other aspects of the formation process. Instead, it is the source of being and action. In the context of the formation of our friars, it is no easy task to teach and promote basic Christian prayer, which includes dialogue, listening, interiority, and unconditional faithfulness (prayer at set times every day).
Upon completion of a candidate’s year-long “pre-novitiate” discernment, the Provincial formation teams evaluate the candidate’s readiness for progression into the Novitiate program. As these candidates become Novices, they put on the white habits of the Novice, including the Augustinian cincture (the long black leather belt). The Blessed Virgin Mary presented a cincture to St. Monica, the mother of St. Augustine.
If you’re interested to learn more about the formation process, visit beafriar.org
The Novices will live in community in Radnor, PA
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Left to Right: Novices Fr. Cody Ford, Javier Medina, and Nick Anderson.
The Midwest Augustinian
...and Our New Brothers
Front Row, Left to Right: Br. Tony Moreno, O.S.A., Br. Shon Alam, O.S.A., Br. Nathan Fernandes, O.S.A. Middle Row, Left to Right: Br. Lou San Vincente, O.S.A., Br. Frank Connor, O.S.A., Br. David Marshall, O.S.A. Back Row, Left to Right: Deacon Michael Riggs, O.S.A., St. Thomas of Villanova Province Prior Provincial Fr. Robert Hagan, O.S.A., The Province of St. Augustine in California Prior Provincial Fr. Gary Sanders, O.S.A., The Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel Prior Provincial Fr. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A.
“You have heard the Lord speak - and you answered.” Six men make their First Profession of Vows and become Augustinian Brothers On August 5th, 2023, at the St. Clare of Montefalco Chapel in Chicago, IL, six novices made their first profession of vows to the Augustinian Order. Br. Tony Moreno, O.S.A., Br. Shon Maqbool Alam, O.S.A., Br. Nathan Fernandes, O.S.A., Br. Lou San Vincente, O.S.A., Br. Frank Connor, O.S.A., and Br. David Marshall, O.S.A. completed their Novitiate year and exchanged their white habits for the black habit and formally became “Brothers” of the Order. These vows - of poverty, chastity, and obedience - are temporary vows that must be renewed annually. Now, these men will live at the St. Augustine Friary in Chicago, and will continue their theological studies at the Catholic Theological Union in preparation for their ministry. Please join us in congratulating and praying for these new Augustinian brothers.
For a full photo gallery of the event, please visit https://www.midwestaugustinians.org/news/2023-profession
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Faith in the Forest Fr. Jack Tierney, O.S.A.’s experience as Chaplain at Life Teen’s summer camp. BY FR. JACK TIERNEY, O.S.A. In July 2023, I was blessed to spend a week with 300 teenagers from all over the country at Life Teen’s Camp Covecrest in Georgia. I served as Chaplain for the week of summer camp with Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. Covecrest has all the elements of a great experience – great food, beautiful scenery, and fun activities. It was an absolute blast to do the high ropes courses, see the teens get muddy in messy games, and enjoy the hiking. This year, we also got to go whitewater rafting on the nearby Chattooga River. Life Teen gives special emphasis to hospitality, ensuring that every teen is welcomed like Christ so they can experience his love. The staff ensured that we celebrated beautiful liturgy and had engaging formats for prayer, journaling, and small group activities. The theme this year was Real Presence. The talks explained the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. The Eucharistic Adoration service was a beautiful opportunity to adore the Lord in the context of healing and restoration. Just as powerful for the teens, the
programming on Real Presence helped them realize how Christ was really present in their lives – journeying with them and strengthening them through his grace. Camp Chaplains celebrated Mass every day, as well as participated in the Hour of Mercy to hear Confessions. They set up a large field next to a lake with chairs each day. Priests who attend camp are invited to hear confessions as we gaze upon the natural beauty and the wonders of God’s Providence. Fr. Tom and I were joined by Sr. Simone OP and Sr. Gloria Christi OP, two Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia. We hosted vocation breakfasts for those interested in discerning religious life. We were available to enjoy activities with parish groups, as well as have meaningful conversations with individual teens. Also, two Augustinian Contemplative Sisters from the Monasterio de la Conversion were able to join us at Camp Covecrest, Sr. Amaya Hernandez O.S.A. and Sr. Andrea Sánchez O.S.A. The Augustinian Sisters were able to enjoy time with teens and witness to the joy and beauty of a vocation to contemplative religious life.
Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A., and Fr. Jack Tierney, O.S.A. welcome campers.
Fr. Jack celebrates Mass with the teens, part of the daily experience at camp.
Fr. Tom celebrates Mass outdoors at Camp Covecrest. All images courtesy of LifeTeen.
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Serve Each Person Celebrating 70 years of Priesthood for Fr. John Flynn, O.S.A. BY BR. SPENCER THOMAS, O.S.A. “It was a happy day, I can remember that.” Such words reflect a storied priest’s humble recollection of the day of his ordination, many decades ago—seven decades, to be precise. Yes, friends, September 19th marked 70 years since Fr. John Flynn, O.S.A., was ordained to the priesthood in Detroit, MI. As the oldest member of our Province, age 96, Fr. Flynn is a living testament to the history of the Midwest Augustinian enterprise, a history crisscrossed by the legacy of so many people, places, stories, and faces. A native of Chicago, Fr. Flynn’s Augustinian journey would begin, like so many others, through an encounter with the friars; in his case, at St. Rita of Cascia High School. Speaking to how he came to join the Augustinians, which he would do after his freshman year, he is quick to note the encouraging inspiration of a fellow classmate, as well as the honest influence of one Fr. John McLaughlin, O.S.A. As to the why, his answer is as simple as it is sacred, “I felt I was called to the Augustinians”. It is this deep-seated conviction of the Lord’s call in his life which not only brought him to join the friars, but also has sustained his more than 75 years of religious profession.
When asked about the personal significance of his call to be an Augustinian priest, Fr. Flynn remarks, “I had to struggle, but the priesthood to me is an honor and a feeling closer to God. It outlines your service to the Lord for your life.” More than mere eloquence, his words carry the venerable weight of a lifetime of service to God and to the Church as a teacher, formator, pastor, provincial, and prior—“I tried to serve the best I could, to serve each person.” Moreover, as the course of his ministerial service continued to evolve, the integrity of community life would become increasingly central to his sense of identity as an Augustinian. Indeed, he is known by many as exemplifying this delicate balance of service and community. As to his advice for anyone considering such a life as a religious or as a priest: “find your voice.” Find your true voice so that you can fearlessly share it with the community, with the Church, and with the world. Nowadays, Fr. Flynn no longer finds himself laboring in the parishes, schools, or other active ministries of the province, but rather is engaged in quietly cultivating the contemplative frontier of a generous life well lived. As a member of the Bl. Stephen Bellesini community in Crown Point, Indiana, he gracefully manages to
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witness a life of simple service, a life of prayer, counsel, fraternity, spiritual fatherhood, and sharing the Sacraments with his fellow friars and with everyone he encounters. Reflecting on the legacy of it all, he poignantly shares, “I’d like to be remembered for my preaching”—a priest through and through. A legacy of love and a priest forever, we join with Fr. Flynn in celebrating 70 years of boldly proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ through a life ignited by grace and gifted to the heart of so many others.
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Fr. Homero Sánchez, O.S.A., with the mother of a migrant family that the Parish of St. Rita and St. Clare helped to house.
The Sanctuary Community 10
The Midwest Augustinian
How the Midwest Augustinians and the Chicago Catholic community are supporting refugees. “For I was a stranger, and you welcomed me.” Matthew 25:35
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he air shimmers across the O’Hare Airport tarmac as a young couple exits the jet bridge and enters the terminal, each carrying a grocery bag full of belongings. Outside the windows, workers have started tossing luggage haphazardly onto a rolling belt. The couple doesn’t bother to look for their suitcases. Those grocery bags carry all they have. The man reaches into his pocket and pulls out his phone. It has enough battery for a call to a number he’s never used before. The number of a man he’s never spoken to but has heard much about. He dials. The phone rings. On the other end of the line, Bishop Dan Turley, O.S.A., picks up. “Hello?”
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Escanee para ver la versión en español o visite www.midwestaugustinians. org/sanctuary-community
ver 10,000 asylum-seekers arrived in Chicago since August 2022, from Central and South America, according to the City. Refugees come by plane, train, and bus in droves, overwhelming an already-strained network of shelters. Even as Chicago, a “sanctuary city” for migrants, scrambles to mobilize resources and open doors to police stations across the city as overnight shelters, there is still no sustainable solution to the challenge of getting these families the kind of support they need to get back on their feet, leaving community organizations to fill in the gaps. Organizations like the Midwest Augustinians. When Bishop Dan got the call from the young couple stranded at the airport, asking for help finding housing, the www.midwestaugustinians.org
Augustinians didn’t have a set protocol for providing shelter to refugees, other than those the Archdiocese of Chicago sets. “We were looking at each other like, ‘what do we do with them?’” remembers Fr. Homero Sánchez, O.S.A., Pastor of St. Rita of Cascia Parish and St. Clare Church. He ended up paying for a fivenight hotel stay for the couple as he figured out where to move them next. Just days after the first call, a second couple came to the parish doors, asking for a place to stay. Fr. Homero started reaching out to community organizations, other parishes, and the province, looking for ways to support and shelter these refugees. As word spread, parishioners were eager to join the response. “We need to help our neighbors – 11
it’s part of our faith, to love one another and to help each other in need,” says Maria Larry, a parishioner of St. Rita and one of the early volunteer members of the Migrant Help Committee. “I have a daughter myself, a 12-year-old, and I couldn’t imagine [living outside of a police station].” What started as a one-off response supported by a few became a structured process enabled by dozens of volunteers. Soon, the refugee support program at St. Rita was finding available apartments, paying for the first month of rent, and sourcing new and used home furnishings and supplies for these refugee families, from major appliances to things as simple as can openers. Additionally, volunteers would bring weekly groceries to the families and help find them jobs, communicating in some instances by translation apps with refugees who only spoke Spanish. Within months, the Migrant Help Committee at St. Rita and St. Clare was helping one or two families per
week move off the streets outside local police stations, where the City of Chicago allowed them to stay in refugee encampments, into temporary housing. The impact was growing. As the response grew, and as more refugees came to the city, the Augustinians continued to become aware of and support the work that other organizations were doing, and to receive support from organizations like Catholic Charities, the Sisters of St. Casimir, the Ray and Millie McCarthy Charitable Fund, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP), St. Jude Parish, and St. Nicholas Parish, among others. The Southside Parish Renewal, a collaboration of four parishes – Christ the King, St. Barnabas, St. Cajetan, and St. John Fisher – is one of the groups who the Augustinians and Prior Provincial Fr. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A., worked with to support the refugee community, even holding an outdoor mass preached in Spanish.
“We started hearing from volunteers and from people interacting [with the refugees], saying, ‘These people are really hurting, and they’d love to see a priest who can speak Spanish,’” says Maureen Gainer Reilly, one of the lay board members of the Southside Parish Renewal and a parishioner of St. Barnabas who is coordinating the refugee outreach. “We’re able to do bigger things because we’re working together.” That collaborative spirit has been core to the response across the community. And as the work that the Augustinians and other parishes across the Archdiocese of Chicago spreads, momentum is growing, and more and more people are getting involved, in ways big and small. “It’s kind of like dipping your toe in the water, once you do, you’re going to jump in pretty quickly,” says Fr. Larry Sullivan, Pastor of Christ the King Parish. “This really is an essential aspect of living out the Gospel.”
At left, a migrant family searches through donated goods to find clothing and other essential items. At right, Fr. Homero arranges housing over the phone.
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Families have endured long, dangerous travel together. Here, Fr. Homero welcomes one of the younger migrants to the community.
In August 2023 alone, the Augustinian community placed 22 refugee families (92 people) in stable homes – the most they’ve ever placed. But there are more families waiting. For Fr. Homero and the Midwest Augustinians, the work is far from over. “The Rule of St. Augustine says, ‘give to everyone not equally, but according to their need,’” explains Fr. Homero. “And we are poor, and make a vow of poverty, but our poverty is not just ‘not having enough,’ it’s sharing what we have. We’re sharing a lot of hope here.” Hope, and resources. On average, it costs about $1,500 to pay for the first month of rent for a refugee family, a cost that is split in some cases with Catholic Charities and funded by private donors. But the impacts of that cost are priceless. Over the past year, refugee families who have been supported by the Augustinians have gotten back on their feet, finding jobs in the community, taking on their own rent payments, purchasing cars and pets, and giving
back to the parish communities that supported them. For Fr. Homero, this is what success looks like, and is one of the core aspects of his parish community. “In 1905, migrants built this community – the Parish of St. Rita and St. Clare – so our roots are from migrants,” he says. “Hospitality is part of being Augustinian.”
To support the refugee outreach efforts of the Midwest Augustinian Province with your time, talents, and treasure, please contact Fr. Homero Sánchez, O.S.A., at homeroosa@gmail.com (St. Rita of Cascia Parish) or The Midwest Augustinians at 10161 Longwood Drive, Chicago, IL 60643.
Fresh fruit is a welcome snack for these migrants, who currently take shelter outside of a police station.
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Social Justice is a Vital Part of a Priest’s Vocation The pastoral community must be involved in the life of the community and seeking the common good, says Prior Provincial Fr. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A. BY NATHANIEL HUNTER www.uscatholic.org The following Q&A with Fr. Tony is reprinted with permission by U.S. Catholic. U.S. Catholic is published by the Claretian Missionaries. Call 1-800328-6515 for subscription information. This is an abridged version. To read the complete article, please visit https://uscatholic.org/articles/202308/ social-justice-is-a-vital-part-of-apriests-vocation/ Throughout his nearly 40 years as a priest, Pizzo, who was recently elected to a second term as the prior provincial of the Midwest Province of the Augustinian Order, has had plenty of experience in taking not only a hands-on, pragmatic approach to the priesthood, but also in stepping outside of long-drawn boundaries. Upon returning to his native Chicago in the 1990s, he became heavily involved with local community organizing, working with organizations such as the Southwest Organizing Project to address racial and economic injustice, issues of immigration, fair housing, health care access, and neighborhood violence.
Pizzo sees the role of the priest as being far more than a simple celebrator of the sacraments, but rather as an integral part of bringing justice and the church’s mission to the streets. And for those discerning the priesthood, he sees a willingness to embrace this role of service as crucial. “I cannot see myself, nor can I define pastoral ministry, without it being somehow involved in the life of the community and organizing to address whatever threatens our common good, stability, and peace,” he says. What makes a person a good priest? Augustinians follow what I consider to be a very beautiful and yet simple spirituality: It’s all about being relational. When you read St. Augustine’s rule of life and his Confessions, he is always in relation with the other. When he seeks to understand God in his life, it’s always about looking beyond himself, even though he ultimately had to look within himself to see that God has been there the whole time. This is reflective of our nature as human beings: If we’re created in the image and likeness of God, we’re going to reflect God’s nature.
Augustinians distribute food outside St. Rita of Cascia Catholic Church in Chicago, IL.
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What goes into forming a priest who can achieve this kind of integration? First of all, those discerning the priesthood have to develop a deep and abiding practice of prayer, and this is not something separate from everything else. Coming to terms with my own humanity and my own limitations within the context of being called to be a public figure in the church and to walk with God’s people is all part of what it means to be in communication with God. Importantly, there needs to be both individual and communal prayer. For religious, we live in community, and we pray together. But we also pray privately; each of us cultivates a relationship with God and finds that grace that continues to compel us and move us beyond ourselves, our own ego, our own desires. It helps us recognize that we’re here to share ourselves in the midst of others who are searching for meaning in their lives. The ultimate adventure in our life is the search for God. What responsibility does a priest have toward their community? I’m not just here to celebrate the sacramental life of the church. Those are important moments of convocation that bring people together, but priests are not confined only to those moments of sacramental convocation. We move beyond them as well. As Pope Francis continues to emphasize, go out to the people! Don’t sit back and wait for them to come to you. That is an outreach of evangelization— that’s what Christ did. These are Gospel moments. When you read the Gospels for instance, Christ goes out to the people and feeds them the Gospel. Being a priest is not just about sitting in my office and waiting for people to show up at the office door. It’s literally
moving beyond my own limitations, and that means moving beyond my own space and time. Has this understanding of priesthood affected the community organizing you’ve done throughout your life? In the 1990s I was assigned back in Chicago after two stints in both Michigan and Wisconsin as a parochial vicar. In the meantime, there were issues arising because of changes in the local neighborhood. The median income was lowering. There was a lot of flight out of the neighborhood because of the cultural and racial transition. But I committed myself to walk with folks toward articulating a new identity. We had an issue with street gangs, so safety in the neighborhood was threatened. I realized that people were living in fear, so I began to seek advice from people in the neighborhood, especially from those whom I considered to be organizers themselves without belonging to an organization. One thing led to another, and eventually several of us, both lay folk and a few clergy, were getting together to talk about all of this. What came up was that we should consider community organizing: forming a local community organization whereby we move out into the neighborhood, visit people in their space, engage them in conversations, get their stories, and get to know what their needs are. Ultimately, those needs were about living with some kind of stability in peace with one another. That’s what propelled me into community organizing and investing myself and my community in addressing these issues and working together for the common good. All of that was new to me. It was the first time I realized that, wow, I don’t have to be confined to the four walls of the church building. I can literally walk out the doors, and I’m going to be in the middle of my neighborhood. People need to see that. They need to know that the church is smack in the middle of all of this. And it can’t just
The multi-ethnic Corpus Christi procession through the neighborhood surrounding St. Turibius Parish.
be the building. They need to see the church taking Catholic social teaching, for instance, and making it real by incarnating it in the neighborhood. This is kind of what the gospels are saying, right? Jesus brought a new way of thinking to people in helping them realize that God has been there the whole time. He gives us the opportunity to recognize him in one another and in the good that we do and that we are— even the gang members. I was actually angry at first because there was so much instability with graffiti and shootings and all that. But when I began to reach out to these kids, I realized they’re someone’s son. They’re someone’s brother. They’re a neighbor, really. They need to be in relationship with that which is good and life-giving and know that they can be part of another larger family. I began to truly love these guys. That converted me and helped me realize that Christ can manifest himself in anybody, regardless of our circumstances. What does pastoral ministry look like for someone ministering in a community where these clear threats to the common good you’re describing aren’t really an issue? I’ve thought about that a lot. What would I do if I was ever assigned to an www.midwestaugustinians.org
economically stable community? First of all, preaching—bringing in Catholic social teaching and raising awareness of communities, even if they aren’t in a destabilizing situation—doesn’t exonerate pastors from reaching out or doing something. Perhaps priests in these situations are called to utilize their own resources to help stabilize an unstable situation elsewhere. What priests have acquired and accumulated is not ours; it belongs to everybody. I can see using the same principle of poverty in my religious life as an Augustinian priest and applying it to the local faith community. I might say, “Folks, what we have is wonderful, beautiful, and a gift of God, but it doesn’t just belong to us. The church is bigger than us. This is Christ’s church, and Christ always reached out to the poor.” Imagine the giftedness if a local faith community of means could identify with being the collective Christ. It wouldn’t just be asking people to dig deep into their pockets. That would be part of it, but it would also involve asking people to move beyond their comfort zone and say, “Hey, look, I’m going to volunteer in a situation where there is a need.” Comfort is not a bad thing, but complacency is. Complacency can lead us to apathy, and that is very dangerous ground. 15
Introducing Ed Barrett as Our New Director of Advancement In August, The Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel introduced Edward Barrett as the Province’s new Advancement Director. Ed is a lifelong member of the Augustinian community and joins the Midwest Province from Providence Catholic High School, where he served in various roles for 33 years, most recently as Advancement Director. Ed was named an Affiliate of the Augustinian Order in 2022 and is a product of Augustinian education, having attended both St. Rita Grade School (1976) and St. Rita High School (1980). Ed is a member of the Southwest Suburban Philanthropic NetworkaswellastheChicagoArchdiocesan Development Council, and has a deep network of local and national connections in the Advancement community. “I’m honored to have this opportunity to work with the Midwest Augustinians and support the mission of the Order,” said Barrett. “Working with this community has been such a big part of my life - and my family’s life - and I’m excited to get started.” Ed has been transitioning into his new role with the help of the outgoing
Advancement Director, Michael Gerrity, who started the Province’s Advancement Office in 2012. Michael will continue to be involved with the Advancement Office as Campaign Manager. “As a Province, we owe our gratitude to Michael for what he has helped us accomplish over the past decade,” said Prior Provincial, Rev. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A. “We know that Ed will continue to build upon the solid foundation that Michael helped us create.” Please join us in welcoming Ed and congratulating him on his new role. We’re grateful for his years of service to our community and are excited for the work that is yet to come as together we continue to serve the Midwest as Augustinian friars.
Legacy Campaign Feasibility Study Underway The Province’s ad hoc campaign feasibility committee continues to prayerfully evaluate, study, and assess the viability of a new capital campaign to support the mission and vision of the Midwest Province. The committee includes five members of the Province Advancement Council and four Friars – Fr. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A., Fr. Bernie Scianna, O.S.A., Fr. Jim Halstead, O.S.A., and Fr. Jack Tierney, O.S.A. Advancement Council members serving on this special committee are Ed Hennessy, Bill Reilley, Rob Utter, Manny Jiminez, and Tony Lauinger. To complete the study, please visit www.augustinianlegacy.org and read the case statement and participate in the survey. If you would like to request more information, please contact Michael Gerrity at mikewger@gmail.com or Ed Barrett at ed@midwestaugustinians.org.
The Province Advancement Council Adds New Members In the fall of 2011, then-Advancement Director Michael Gerrity proposed to then-Prior Provincial Fr. Bernie Scianna, O.S.A., the establishment of a council of top, engaged lay advisors to serve the Province and the Augustinians in areas of PR, marketing, and messaging, and in advancement and raising charitable gifts. The inaugural ten members came from Chicago, Detroit, New York, and Tulsa. Over the past 12 years the Advancement Council has led efforts to raise over $20 million in gifts, pledges, and deferred gifts. Today, that body, the Province Advancement Council, has grown to sixteen members and includes men and women representing every major area and ministry of the 16
Province. Prior Provincial Fr. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A., and Province Advancement Director Ed Barrett are committed to having the Advancement Council grow and thrive in its service to the Province. Those interested in being a member of the Advancement Council can first examine the requirements of members by contacting Ed Barrett.
2023-2024 Advancement Council Norma Berman Anne Berschback Joseph Brennan Dr. Kevin G. Burns Catharine Hennessy, Vice-chair Edward Hennessy, Chair The Midwest Augustinian
Manuel Jimenez Anthony Lauinger Rob Martin William Reilley, Sr. Margaret Coughlin Reimann Eugene Tierney Robert Utter David Vaughan Peggy Walsh Martin Wojcik, Emeritus Ed Barrett, Advancement Director Michael Gerrity, Campaign Manager, Ex Officio Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A., Prior Provincial Bernie Scianna, O.S.A., Province Advancement Counselor
Inaugural Augustinian Women’s Retreat A Great Success If the participants’ surveys are any indicator, the June inaugural women’s retreat at the Carmelite Retreat Center in Darien, IL, was an outstanding success for the twenty-six women who attended. On a scale of one to five, with five being the greatest possible outcome, the overall rating by all twenty-six attending was a resounding “5.0.” The only area of note, and one upon which we will work in the future, was on the diversity and quality of the meals. That is easily remedied. Of course, every detail that impacts the overall outcome does matter to the Augustinians. The Retreat Leaders, Fr. John “Merk” Merkelis, O.S.A., and Annie Persicketti earned high praise from attendees as did retreat co-leaders Fr. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A., Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A., and Fr. Jack Tierney, O.S.A. Some of the participants comments illustrate the value and beauty of the encounter.
“I want to know more about St. Augustine.” “Fellowship and time for reflection was in perfect balance.”
“Very enriching.”
“More than I could have hoped for.” The Augustinian's retreats are open to all – not just Catholics or those attending Augustinian schools or parishes. There will be more retreats for women, for men, and perhaps in the
“I would come again.”
future, for couples. This new program becan in June 2022 and will continue as long as it serves those to whom we minister.
2023 Annual Chapter: Fellowship, Community, Growth The Province’s Annual Chapter was a wonderful opportunity for the members of the Order to come together to pray, reflect, and spend time in community.
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An Augustinian Cardinal Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A. Our very own Fr. Robert Prevost, O.S.A., was recently elevated to Cardinal on September 30th. Cardinal Prevost was born in Chicago, IL, and went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Villanova University in 1977, where he would begin a spiritual journey that would lead him to the heart of the Church through the Augustinian Order. After Villanova, he received a Masters of Divinity in Theology from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, and then studied Canon Law at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. He was ordained a priest in 1982 and received his Licentiate in 1984. After serving for over a decade in the Augustinian missions in Peru, Cardinal Prevost returned to the United States to teach and be the Prior Provincial of the Midwest Province and later served as the Prior General, or worldwide leader, of the Augustinian Order for two terms, from 2001-2013. He was later the Bishop of the Diocese of Chiclayo in Peru and was then appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023.
“I just pray to the Lord that I will be faithful in trying to fulfill what Pope Francis and the Church is now asking me.” -Cardinal Robert Prevost, O.S.A.
To read the release from Vatican News and to hear an interview with Cardinal Prevost, scan the QR code or visit https://www.vaticannews.va/en/ vatican-city/news/2023-07/cardinal-designate-prevost-sees-new-role-as-waywalk-together.html
Fr. Robert Prevost, O.S.A., who has held multiple high-ranking positions in the Province, the Order, and in the Church, here is pictured with both Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI.
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The Midwest Augustinian
2022-2023 Annual Report We present to you the Annual Report of the 2022-2023 Fiscal Year for the Midwest Augustinian Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel. While we operate with prudent financial management, it is the stewardship and generosity of our benefactors, who are loyal to the mission of the Midwest Augustinians, that provide crucial funding for the Province. During the '22-23 fiscal year, the Province had 65 Augustinians in the Province. Our men currently work in five schools, four parishes, and our Peruvian missions, in addition to spreading the good word through our vocational outreach. In the past year, over 1,200 donors made over 2,600 gifts to support the Province's major undertakings in vocations, our retired and infirm men, and our missions in Peru. We are indebted to them for their generous hearts and sacrifice. Our Restless Hearts Society, those donors making planned or estate gifts to the Province, has grown to 125 members. These vital gifts ensure that our mission and vision continue into the future. For more information on any of the above, please contact our new Province Advancement Director, Ed Barrett at (773) 614-5898 or ed@midwestaugustinians.org
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The Midwest Augustinian
Financial Summary Province Revenues
July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023
Administration
$658,673.87
Retired Augustinians
$319,654.50
Missions in Peru
$97,753.30
Advancement*
$1,064,022.27
Total Revenue
$2,140,103.94
* Proceeds from the Gala and donations/grants raised by Advancement are allocated to help fund the care of retired and infirm Augustinians, Formation and Vocations Outreach, Missions in Peru, and Province Operations. Province Expenses
July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023
Administration/Advancement
$1,862,396.81
Care of Retired and Infirm Augustinians
$716,847.38
Formation & Vocations Outreach
$298,489.59
Missions in Peru
$336,044.66
Total Expenses
$3,213,778.44
Expenses in Excess of Revenue
($1,073,674.50)
Trust Distributions
$950,000.00
"You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you." - St. Augustine
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One Mind, One Heart Society One Mind, One Heart Society members share these attributes: 1) They believe in the mission and charism of the Augustinians; 2) They pray for the Augustinians in formation, for an increase in vocations, and for our ministries; and 3) They provide an annual commitment of $1,000 or greater in support of our men in formation and vocations outreach, retired and infirm Augustinians, and our missions in Peru. Mr. and Mrs. Carl P. Adducci Mr. and Mrs. Yong Y. Auh Mr. James P. Axtell Mr. and Mrs. John T. Barry Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence A. Beaudin, Jr. Mr. Peter Berg, Esq. Mr. and Mrs. Ted C. Berman Mr. and Mrs. Donald† and Anne Berschback Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Biolchini Mrs. Frances L. Biolchini Dr. Michael J. Bland and Dr. Otto Aldana Ms. Christine J. Bobek Mrs. Joycelyn Grolla Brasini Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. Brennan, Jr. Mr. William J. Brown Ms. Theresa M. Brown Mr. and Mrs. Mark C. Butterworth Mr. and Mrs. Dennis A. Campbell Ms. Jo Ellen Carabin Ms. Clarissa Cerda Mr. Anthony R. Condon Mr. and Mrs. Matthew F. Coughlin, III Mr. and Mrs. Paul H. Dachota Mrs. Veronica Donnelly Mr. and Mrs. William J. Dore Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Engvall Rev. Ronald J. Essman Mr. and Mrs. Silvio Ferrara Mr. and Mrs. Raffaele Ferraro Dr. Anthony R. Fisher, Ph.D. Dr. and Mrs. William F. Fitter Dr. Bruce Fleck† Ms. Patricia A. Flynn Mr. and Mrs. Roger P. Furey Mr. and Mrs. John A. Gaberino, Jr. Mr. Stanley M. Gavlick Mrs. Patricia A. Geiss Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. Gerrity Mr. Jerome B. Goggiel† Mr. Joseph M. Grady Mr. and Mrs. Donald F. Graff, Sr. Ms. Patricia M. Grant Mr. Brian P. Griffin Mr. Patrick J. Griffin and Sharon L. Ostrowski Mr. and Mrs. Mark S. Hacker Mrs. Louise Hamilton Mr. John W. Hannan Mr. Jeremiah Hartmann Ms. Linda A. Hartz Mr. Thomas J. Healy Mr. and Mrs. Daniel K. Heenan Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Heeney Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Hennessy Mr. and Mrs. David J. Hougan 22
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory J. Jania Mr. John G. Jaworski Dr. John E. Kauth† The Honorable and Mrs. Francis Keating Mr. Peter D. Keith Mr. and Mrs. Daniel L. Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Kennedy Dr. and Dr. Geoffrey J. Keyes Dr. and Mrs. Thomas J. King, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Wayne G. Klasing Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Kniola Mr. Richard D. Kornowski Mr. Bernard M. Kosowski Ms. Barbara A. Koss Dr. and Mrs. Francis J. Kostel Mr. and Mrs. Richard A. Kreitzberg Mr. and Mrs. James M. LaFleur Mr. and Mrs. Edward Lanuti Mr. Anthony Lauinger and Dr. Phyllis Lauinger Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lauinger Ms. Virginia B. Leonhart MSgt. Bernard M. Loftus Mr. and Mrs. Guy N. Maras Dr. and Mrs. John E. Martin Mr. and Mrs. George A. Martin Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Martin, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Martinovich Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Mattes Mr. Patrick G. McKeever, Sr. Mr. Francis X. McManigal, Jr. Mr. Michael McNicholas Mrs. Joan K. Miller Dr. and Mrs. Francis P. Mohan Dr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Moore Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Morris Mr. and Mrs. Stephen G. Morrissette Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Mrozek Mr. and Mrs. Ernest J. Mrozek Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Munster Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Murray Ms. Laura J. Nalepka Ms. Eileen Burns Neary Mr. Kenneth W. Newton Mr. and Mrs. William H. Nolan Mr. and Mrs. Patrick F. O'Connor Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Ogrodnik Ms. Theresa A. Orlow Mr. Michael J. O'Rourke Mrs. Betty O'Toole Mr. and Mrs. John V. Paris, II Mr. and Mrs. Mark C. Peskor Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Pierson Mr. and Mrs. Ronald F. Pilon Mr. William J. Podl The Midwest Augustinian
Dr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Prieboy Mrs. Annette G. Pringle Mr. and Mrs. Timothy M. Ramsay Mr. Jose R. Randall Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Raths Mr. and Mrs. William Reilley Mr. and Mrs. Robert Reins Mr. Nicholas Relstab Dcn. and Mrs. Joseph Roccasalva Mr. and Mrs. Alvaro Saldivar Mr. and Mrs. James E. Sampson Mr and Mrs. Ed† and Debbie Schmitt Mr. Robert J. Schmitz Dr. and Mrs. Lawrence J. Schouten Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Scianna Mrs. Jeanette M. Seimetz Mr. John Seper Mr. and Mrs. Daniel L. Shamblin Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Shanle Mrs. Milann H. Siegfried Mr. Donald Sinak Dr. and Mrs. Rick C. Singh Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Sise Mr. Ronald L. Skwarek Mr. and Mrs. Martin P. Slark Dr. and Mrs. William W. Small Mr. and Mrs. Kevin R. Smith Mr. James Somday Ms. Janice H. Sosnowski Mr. and Mrs. Alan Staab Ms. Christine M. Starkey Mr. and Mrs. David A. Steinbarth Mr. Richard J. Steinbarth Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Stobba Mr. Ken Stransky Mr. and Mrs. Martin C. Strubin Mr. and Mrs. Roger R. Sullivan Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Tierney Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Utter Ms. Loral A. Valley Mr. and Mrs. David L. Vaughan Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Vega Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Walker Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Walsh Mr. James E. Walsh Mr. Patrick M. Walsh Mr. and Mrs. William K. Warren, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James F. Werner Mr. David Westerberg Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Wisner Mr. Martin H. Wojcik Mr. and Mrs. Kelly Wood
† Deceased
Restless Hearts Society Enrollment in the Restless Hearts Society is reserved for those who have included the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel of the Augustinian Order in their wills and estate plans; who have listed the Province as beneficiaries in life insurance, IRAs, annuities, or other retirement plans; or who have donated houses or other property, and have informed the Provincial of this most gracious act and intent. Mr. and Mrs. Pierre and Arlene Adams Mr. Joseph F. Bamberger Mr. and Mrs. Dom and Marcella Bay Mrs. Carolyn Beil and Mr. Frank Beil Mr. and Mrs. Donald† and Anne Berschback Ms. Christine J. Bobek Mr. Charles D. Cassity Mr. William Cavanaugh Mr. Kathryn Clarett Mr. James A. Corona Mr. James V. Corrigan Mr. Thomas C. De Corte Mr. Dale H. Deffenbaugh† Mr. and Mrs. Francis and Eve Denning Ms. Delores F. Denning† Ms. Rose Dietrich† Mr. Julie Domzalski Mr. Mary Dormer Mr. and Mrs. Joseph† and Sandra Drap Mr. and Mrs. William and Veronic Drinane† Ms. Carolyn A. Dunskis Mr. and Mrs. William and Lillian Evers Mr. and Mrs. Jeanette and James Fikany† Mr. and Mrs. Clarence and Anne Flach Mr. and Mrs. Gregory and Patricia Flanagan Mr. and Mrs. Bruce and Marcelline Fleck† Mr. Ursula Forsthoefel Ms. Rita M. Fortino† Dr. and Mrs. Robert J. Fredericks, Ph.D. Mr. and Mrs. John and Patricia Freese Mr. August Friedel Ms. Mary Friedel-Hunt Mr. and Mrs. John and Marjory Gaberino, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Michael and Liz Gerrity Ms. Ardith E. Goodroe† Hon. James and Mrs. Annamae Griffin† Mr. and Mrs. Frank and Mary Lou Grimaldi Sr. Armella Guiney, R.S.M. Mrs. Winifred M. Guthikonda Mr. and Mrs. Richard and Grace Hagedorn Mr. Kurt Hartlieb, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. David and Paula Hougan Ms. Lois J. Jacobs† Ms. Marie T. Kaiser† Mr. William O. Kelly
Mr. and Mrs. Hugh and Marcella Kenny Mr. and Mrs. Michael and Elizabeth Kirby Mrs. and Mr. Barbara G. Klasing Mr. Richard D. Kornowski Mr. and Mrs. John N. Kost Mr. John D. Kwiatkowski Mr. Robert J. LaFortune Mr. and Mrs. Gary † and Ann LaGere Mr. Anthony J. Lauinger and Dr. Phyllis W. Lauinger Mr. and Mrs. William Leighty Mr. Thomas Leo Mr. and Mrs. Steve Leos, Jr. Mrs. Barbara Jean L. Lichtfuss Ms. Sylvia Lileikiss† Mr. and Mrs. Earl L. Linehan Mr. and Mrs. Jerome J. Lui Ms. Dolores P. Lundeen Mr. Robert H. Mace, Jr., Th.M. Mr. Clarence E. Mailander Mr. and Mrs. Michael and Elizabeth Manning Mr. John M. McCormick† Mr. Bill McGarrity Dcn. Terrance McGuire and Ms. Kathleen McGowan Mr. Victor McGuire Mrs. Helen J. Merkelis † Mrs. Dolores F. Michalski Mr. and Mrs. Donald V. Miller Ms. Debra Molinari Dr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Moore Mr. and Mrs. William and Mary Nolan Mr. and Mrs. Harry and Adele O'Sullivan Mrs. Betty O'Toole Ms. Mary Kathryn Owens Mrs. Lorraine Pavelcik Mr. and Mrs. Donald and Nancy Petkus Mr. and Mrs, William and Connie Pines Mrs. Mildred Louis Prevost Mr. Frank J. Puncer† Mr. Arthur Quandt † Mr. Edward Raher† Mr. and Mrs. Timothy M. Ramsay Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rasmussen www.midwestaugustinians.org
Mrs. Bernice A. Raubiskis† Mrs. Pauline Reidy Mr. and Mrs. Nelson and Agnes Ruff Mrs. Patricia J. Ryan-Fouts and Mr. Steven Ryan-Fouts Ms. Margaret M. Schauer Mr. Louise A. Scherer Mr. Robert J. Schmitz Michael B. Schneider, Sr.† Mr. and Mrs. Philip A. Sgariglia Mr. Midred Sloot Mr. and Mrs. Richard and Lisa Solava Mr. John S. Sosnowski Mr. Joshua D. Stewart Mr. and Mrs. Raymond and Rose Sullivan Mr. Gloria Taylor Mr. William Vail Mr. and Mrs. Ned Van Hamm Mr. and Mrs. David and Lisa Vaughan Capt. Thomas Wojcik Mr. Martin H. Wojcik Mr. Betty Slattery Zander
Every effort has been made to present a complete and accurate list of donors. If an error or omission has occurred, we apologize and ask that you bring it to our attention by contacting Ed Barrett, Director of Advancement at (773) 6145898, ed@midwestaugustinians.org or JoAnn Altenbach (773) 614-5881, joann@ midwestaugustinians.org 23
2022-2023 Province Donor Scroll The Midwest Augustinians extend their prayers and gratitude to the following individuals who have made a donation or pledge of any amount to our Province between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023. Without these individuals, we would not be able to carry out our ministries. Mr. and Mrs. Ronald M. Abramowicz Mr. and Mrs. Michael B. Abrams Mr. and Mrs. Pierre M. Adams Mr. and Mrs. Dominic J. Adducci Mr. and Mrs. Carl P. Adducci Mr. Joseph J. Adduci, Jr. Ms. Karen Adent Mr. and Mrs. George M. Ahern Mr. Mike Ahrendt Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas J. Ahrens, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Michael Airdo Mrs. Linda Alesi-Zuran Mr. and Mrs. Randall Alferink Mrs. Patricia J. Allen Mr. Mark Allen Ms. Mary E. Allen Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Alling Dr. and Mrs. H. W. Allred, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ally Ms. JoAnn Foertsch Altenbach Mrs. Beatriz Andrews Anonymous Donors (49) Mr. Michael Antongiovanni Mr. and Mrs. Robert Applebaum Ms. Karen A. Athans Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Atwood Mr. and Mrs. Raymond N. Augsburger Augustinian Guild Mr. and Mrs. Yong Y. Auh Austin Alumni Association Austin Catholic High School Austin Prepatory School Mr. and Mrs. Rodney F. Bakkala, Sr. Ms. Mary Ann Bamberger Mr. Joseph F. Bamberger Mr. and Mrs. Arthur N. Barkman Mr. and Mrs. Donald R. Barrs Mr. and Mrs. John T. Barry Mrs. Susan Bartels Mr. and Mrs. William Barz Mr. and Mrs. Dean Bass Mr. and Mrs. Lee H. Bayley Ms. Rebecca Beauchamp Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence A. Beaudin, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. George C. Beckwith Mr. and Mrs. Joseph R. Beemster Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Been Ms. Cheryl Beesley Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Beier Mr. John A. Berardi 24
Mr. Fred Berg Mr. and Mrs. Ted C. Berman Mr. and Mrs. Don† and Anne Berschback Mrs. Anne Berschback Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Berschback Mr. Kenneth P. Biagi Mr. and Mrs. William D. Bickel, Jr. Mrs. Rosie M. Binge Mr. and Mrs. William F. Bingham Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Biolchini Ms. Cheryl Bischoff Dr. Michael J. Bland, Psy.D. and\ Dr. Otto Aldana, M.D. Mr. Joshua R. Blaszak Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Blue, Sr. Ms. Christine J. Bobek Mr. and Mrs. Brian Boisvert Drs. Ron and Sheila Bonaguro Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bonkowski Mr. John E. Bourbon Ms. and Mr. Stephen Bourque Mr. and Mrs. Benito L. Bozzetti, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Brant Mrs. Joycelyn Grolla Brasini Dr. and Mrs. Theodore E. Brasky Ms. Teresa Brecht Mrs. Geraldine Brecht Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. Brennan, Jr. Mrs. Rosemary J. Bresnahan Mr. and Mrs. Paul W. Bridgman Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Brodnicki Brothers of the Order of Hermits of St. Augustine Mr. and Mrs. Dale Brown Mr. Kenneth L. Brune, P.C. Mr. and Mrs. Ray Bryan Ms. Kathleen M. Buckley Ms. Floriana Budrik Mr. James W. Burke Ms. Mary Burns Dr. and Mrs. Kevin G. Burns Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Burns Mr. and Mrs. Edward M. Burns Burns Photography Mr. and Mrs. Mark C. Butterworth Mr. and Mrs. Ken Butts Mr. William E. Byrnes Ms. Mary C. Byrnes Mr. James Cadieux, Jr. The Midwest Augustinian
Mr. James Cahill Mr. Frank I. Caldarone Ms. Pat Callaghan Mr. and Mrs. Samuel R. Cameli Mr. and Mrs. Dennis A. Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Campbell Dr. John N. Canzona Mr. and Mrs. James Carberry Mr. and Mrs. Greg Carnevale Ms. Kelly Carroll Mr. and Mrs. Philip T. Carter Cascia Hall Preparatory School Mr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Casey Mr. Charles D. Cassity Mr. and Mrs. John Cencig Mr. Ronald P. Centanni Mr. Anthony Chapman Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Claremont Management Corp. Mr. and Mrs. James F. Clark Mr. and Mrs. Randall Clark Mrs. Maryirene Clarke Coach Schluter's Summer Basketball Camps Mrs. Marilyn H. Cobb Ms. Maryellen Coens Mr. and Mrs. Martin R. Cole Ms. Debbie Coleman Mrs. Mary Fran Collier Mr. and Mrs. Barry G. Collins Mr. Dennis Connor Mr. and Mrs. Martin T. Conroy Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Conway Mrs. Mary G. Cooper Mr. and Mrs. Brett Coppens Mrs. Aracely Garcia and Mr. Saul Corona Ms. Roberta Costanzo Mr. and Mrs. Matthew F. Coughlin, III Dr. and Mrs. Christopher A. Coury Mr. Steven A. Cozzi Mr. Matthew Craig Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Crawley Rev. John J. Crepeau Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Crylen Ms. Anna Cukrowski Mr. and Mrs. William J. Cuppett Mr. and Mrs. Stephen H. Custer Ms. Joyce Cwik Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Czelusniak Mrs. Patricia Dailey Mr. Vito M. D'Ambrosio † Deceased
Dr. and Mrs. John D'Anca Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth C. Danz, Jr. Ms. Carol Day Mrs. Silvia De Alva Ms. Sandra De La Garza Ms. Barbara L. Dean Ms. Rita DeAngelis Mr. and Mrs. Brian D. Deenihan Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. DeFilippis Mr. and Mrs. John Delaney Mr. and Mrs. Dave E. Demy Dr. and Mrs. Geoffrey R. DeTolve, M.D. Mr. and Mrs. David L. Devine Ms. Victoria DeYoung Mr. and Mrs. Michael Diaz De Leon Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DiGiacomo Mr. Gregory J. Dillon Mr. James H. Dimmitt Ms. Angioletta Dimonte Diocese of Fresno Diocese of Lansing Diocese of Rockford Diocese of San Diego Ms. Martha A. Dion Mrs. Marilyn J. Dock Mr. Gregory G. Dodge Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Dombrowski Mr. and Mrs. Bruno F. Domzalski Mr. and Mrs. John E. Donnan Mr. and Mrs. David K. Doorneweerd Mr. William J. Dorans Mr. and Mrs. William J. Dore Mr. Martin Dowling Drs. John and Allie Downing Mr. Frank J. Drabik Mrs. and Mr. Lorraine V. Drinane† Mr. and Mrs. Emmett F. Driscoll Mr. and Mrs. Chris Drnaso Mrs. Sheila Dropcho Mrs. Barbara Rasmussen Drozd Mr. and Mrs. Daniel R. Druszkowski Mr. Ron Dubin Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Duffy Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Dulle Mr. James Dunneback Ms. Carolyn A. Dunskis Mr. and Mrs. Robert Durham Mr. and Mrs. William Ebinger Mr. and Mrs. Craig M. Eckert Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Elder Mr. and Mrs. Mark G. Ellebrecht Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Englert Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Engvall Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Ericson Mr. and Mrs. Richard G. Erschen Rev. Ronald J. Essman Mr. and Mrs. Daniel E. Evans
Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Fabian Federation of Augustinians of North America (FANA) Mr. and Mrs. Edmond F. Fee Mr. and Mrs. Gregg Ferlin Mr. and Mrs. Silvio Ferrara Mr. and Mrs. Raffaele Ferraro Ms. Mary Fetter Mr. and Mrs. Donald T. Findlay Mr. John M. Finnegan Mr. Brian Finnegan Mr. Robert W. Fioretti Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Firmiss Dcn. and Mrs. Howard Fischer Dr. Anthony R. Fisher, Ph.D. Dcn. Robert Fitt Dr. and Mrs. William F. Fitter Mr. Robert H. Flach and Mrs. Dawn A. Zimmerman-Flach Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Flaherty Mr. Martin Flaherty Mr. Thomas Flanagan Mrs. Helen Fleck Mr. and Mrs. David Floyd Mr. Edward Flynn Mr. Dennis P. Foley Mr. and Mrs. Bruce E. Ford Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Forsthoefel Ms. Rita M. Fortino† Mr. and Mrs. James W. Fox Mr. and Mrs. David L. Fox Mr. Phillip B. Franczyk Mr. and Mrs. John H. Frankovich Mr. Ronald J. Frazier, Jr. Freddy's Food & Pizza Inc. Dr. and Mrs. Robert J. Fredericks, Ph.D. Mr. and Mrs. Arthur A. Frigo Ms. Susan Fronek Ms. Virginia Fronick Mr. and Mrs. Peter F. Furey Mr. and Mrs. Roger P. Furey Mr. and Mrs. Robert Furlan Mr. and Mrs. John A. Gaberino, Jr. Mrs. Joyce M. Gadola Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Gaier Mrs. Shirley Gallagher Mr. and Mrs. Gerald E. Gamble Mr. and Mrs. Ryan C. Gandurski Mrs. Aracely Garcia and Mr. Saul Corona Mr. and Mrs. August Garritano Mr. and Mrs. Michael Garvey Ms. Suzanne C. Gates Mr. and Mrs. Thomas E. Gavin III Mr. Stanley M. Gavlick Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Gawel Mr. Theodore J. Gebauer Mr. and Mrs. John J. George www.midwestaugustinians.org
Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. Gerrity Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Gerrity Mr. and Mrs. Jaspare J. Giardina Dr. and Mrs. James P. Gierahn Ms. Gierens and Mr. Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Gierl Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Giovanazzi Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Gleason Mr. and Mrs. Todd Goldsmith Mrs. Janet M. Goodwin Mr. and Mrs. Jim Gow Mr. and Mrs. Clarence J. Graber Mr. Eugene M. Graczyk Mr. and Mrs. Donald F. Graff, Sr. Ms. Patricia M. Grant Mr. and Mrs. Glen Gray Ms. Liza Greene Ms. Carol Greer Ms. Majella Greetis Mr. and Mrs. Russell J. Grieshaber Mr. Patrick J. Griffin and Ms. Sharon L. Ostrowski Mr. and Mrs. Eugene F. Griffin, J.D. Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Grigoletti Mr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Gross Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Grzesiak Mr. and Mrs. John P. Gundermann Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Gustafson Mr. Raymond M. Gutjahr† Ms. Karen Guzan Mr. and Mrs. Donald W. Haberkamp Mr. and Mrs. Richard H. Hagedorn Mr. and Mrs. John M. Hajek Sr. Mary Ann Hamer, O.S.F. Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Hanley Mr. Patrick Hannemann Mr. Leo Hansen Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hargens, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Stephen A. Harman The Harold D. and Hazel C. Wright Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Michael F. Harper Mr. and Mrs. Dean Harrison Mr. Howard Hart Mr. and Mrs. Dan R. Hart Ms. Linda A. Hartz Mr. Bruce J. Hattemer Mr. and Mrs. John L. Hayes Mr. and Mrs. Walter Headley Mr. and Mrs. Keith Hebeisen Mr. and Mrs. Daniel K. Heenan Mr. and Mrs. James A. Heintz Mr. and Mrs. Frank X. Henke Mr. Stephen Hennenfent Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Hennessy Mr. and Mrs. John Henry Mr. and Mrs. Paul W. Henry 25
Ms. Pamela Herold Mr. and Mrs. Robert Heslinga Mr. and Mrs. Matthew J. Hickey Mr. and Mrs. Michael B. Hickey Ms. Dolores A. Hilden Mr. and Mrs. Albert J. Hillebrand Mr. and Mrs. Hank Hines Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Hoch Mr. and Mrs. Rich Hodorowich Mr. and Mrs. David W. Holden Ms. N. Carol. Holly Mr. and Mrs. Terrance L. Holz Dr. and Mrs. Dean A. Hoppenrath Mrs. Margaret A. Horak Mrs. Eileen Hostert Mr. and Mrs. David J. Hougan Mr. and Mrs. Paul Houston Mr. Jack M. Hull Mr. and Mrs. Sean Hurley Mr. James J. Husa, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Daniel R. Hyma Mr. Anton Iberle Mr. Paul Ickes Mr. and Mrs. Mark D. Isley Italian American Executives of Transportation Mr. Charles Ivers Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Jablonsky Mrs. Irene R. Jacobs Mr. and Mrs. Edward R. Jancauskas Mr. and Mrs. Gregory J. Jania Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Janisch Mr. and Mrs. Michael Jaworski Mr. John G. Jaworski Mr. and Mrs. John P. Jeffers Jesus Christ, Prince of Peace Parish Mr. and Mrs. John Jezisek Ms. Maria I. Jimenez Mr. Richard Jobbagy Mr. Curtis L. Johnson and Ms. AnneMarie Gierens Mr. and Mrs. Daniel C. Jones Journey of Hope Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Joutras Mr. and Mrs. Stanley W. Jozefiak Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Jumbeck Mr. and Tomasz Jurkowski Mr. and Mrs. James Jurkowski Mrs. Debra E. Jurvich Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Kahne Br. Fred R. Kaiser, O.S.A. Mr. and Mrs. Shawn Kane Ms. Louise D. Karkula Mr. Michael A. Karth Mr. and Mrs. John S. Kavalunas Ms. Mary Ann Kay Mr. and Mrs. Martin Keane 26
Ms. Mary R. Keeling Mr. and Mrs. Robert K. Keller Ms. Roseann Keller Ms. Kathleen Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Mark E. Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Terry F. Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Kelly Dr. and Mrs. Ernest L. Kelly Mr. and Mrs. James S. Kelly Mr. Leo F. Kennedy Mr. Patrick Kennedy Mr. and Mrs. Kevin M. Kennedy Mr. and Mrs. John P. Kennedy Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Kennedy Mr. and Mrs. Patrick R. Kilcoyne, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Kill Mrs. Barbara A. Kilton Dr. and Mrs. Thomas J. King, Jr. Mr. Thomas G. King Ms. Linda Kinnach Mr. and Mrs. Wayne G. Klasing Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Klazura Mrs. Elizabeth Kleinheinz Mr. and Mrs. Jason A. Klink Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Knezovich Mr. David Knight Knights of Columbus #10926 Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Kniola Mr. and Mrs. Charles Knop Dr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Koenig Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth J. Kolar Mrs. Frances P. Kollman Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Konieczny Mr. Richard D. Kornowski Mr. and Mrs. John P. Kos Mr. Bernard M. Kosowski Dr. and Mrs. Francis J. Kostel Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Kot Mr. and Mrs. Jim Kovarik Mr. Gerald Kowalewski Mr. and Mrs. Thaddeus E. Kowynia Mr. and Mrs. Lance N. Krajacic Mr. and Mrs. Richard A. Kreitzberg Mrs. Regina P. Kristopaitis Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Kroes Mrs. Bernice G. Krolak Mr. and Mrs. Brian A. Kroll Mr. Michael G. Krukones Mr. Thomas Krusenoski Mrs. Bonnie Krywanio Ms. Kristy Krywanio KSKJ Life Mr. and Mrs. Casimer S. Kubak Dr. Ronald R. Kubiak, D.D.S. Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Kucera Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Kucharski Mr. and Mrs. Thomas V. Kudzia The Midwest Augustinian
Mr. and Mrs. James R. Kuffel Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Kukawka Mr. Randy Kunish Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Kunzer Mr. and Mrs. Leo L. Kupiec Mr. and Mrs. Frank M. Lacny Mr. and Mrs. John Ladowicz Mr. Gary† and Mrs. Ann LaGere Mrs. Therese E. Lahart Mr. and Mrs. Christopher E. Lake Ms. Catherine A. Langlois Mr. and Mrs. Dominic LaRosa Mrs. Deborah F. Larsen Mr. and Mrs. William Larsen Mr. and Mrs. Matthew P. Larson Mrs. Joyce Latimer Mr. Anthony J. Lauinger and Dr. Phyllis W. Lauinger Mr. Vincent J. Leahy, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Jay A. Leggero Mr. and Mrs. William Leighty Mr. and Mrs. John T. Lenahan Ms. Anne Marie Leofanti Mr. and Mrs. Larry Leonard Mr. and Mrs. John P. Lesnicki Mr. Robert Letko Ms. Jacqueline J. Levandoski Dr. and Mrs. John A. Lewis, Jr. Mrs. Barbara Jean L. Lichtfuss Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Linane Mr. John P. Linane Mr. Richard C. Linden Mr. and Mrs. Neil Link Mr. and Mrs. Jerome F. Litrenta Little Company of Mary Sisters - USA The Little Way Association Mr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Loftus MSgt. Bernard M. Loftus Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. Lois Mr. and Mrs. Juan J. Lopez Mrs. Imelda P. Lopez Mrs. LaVerne M. Losos† Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Lovell Mr. and Mrs. John W. Lowry Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth E. Lucas Ms. Janet J. Lucas and\ Mr. John Puskar III Mr. Howard Ludwig Mr. and Mrs. George A. Lullo Mr. and Mrs. John Lustig Mr. and Mrs. Gerald S. Luzi Rev. John J. Lydon, O.S.A. Ms. Patricia M. Lydon Mr. and Mrs. Kevin J. Lynch Mrs. Margaret Lynch Dr. Cornelious T. Lynch, D.D.S. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence J. Lynch Mr. Robert L. Mabarak † Deceased
Mr. Sean MacCarthy Mr. and Mrs. Tony Mackay Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Mackey Mrs. Barbara Mackey Mr. Ray A. Macri Mrs. Joseph T. Magee Mr. and Ms. Bill Mahar Mr. William G. Maibusch Mr. and Mrs. John Majcher Mr. and Mrs. John Malone Mr. George E. Mampreian Mr. and Mrs. Stephen J. Manders Mr. and Mrs. Todd R. Mangun Ms. Donna Manheim Ms. Jeanette R. Mansour and Mr. Joe Green Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Manuszak Ms. Sue Marciszewski Marquette Bank Ms. Mildred Marquez Ms. Maria Marquez Mr. and Mrs. Samuel K. Martin Mr. Ryan Martin Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Martin, Jr. Mr. Thomas Martin Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Martini Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Martinovich Mr. and Mrs. Stanley J. Mastej Rev. Andrew W. Matijevic Mr. John W. Matkey Mr. and Mrs. James P. Matt Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Mattes Mr. and Mrs. Jerry R. Matulis Ms. Annette C. Matuszewski Mr. and Mrs. Kevin T. Mavity Ms. Rita Mayerhofer Mr. and Mrs. David Mayo Mr. Sidney McAlister Ms. Linda McBride Mr. Patrick J. McCarthy, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. James P. McCarthy Mr. Andrew McCarthy Mr. and Mrs. Cody K. McCone Mr. and Mrs. Donald F. McCormack Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. McCormick Mr. William McDermott Mr. and Mrs. Daniel T. McGinnis Mr. Michael E. McGinnis, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Mark J. McGivern Mr. and Mrs. William J. McGrane, Jr. Dcn. Terrance McGuire and Ms. Kathleen McGowan Mr. and Mrs. James R. McInerney Mr. and Mrs. Andrew N. McIntosh Mr. Patrick G. McKeever, Sr. Ms. Arlene McKenna Ms. Marion McKenna Mr. and Mrs. Michael H. McMahon
Ms. Martha A. Flynn McMaster Mr. R. J. McMillan Mr. Michael McNamara Mr. and Mrs. Eugene J. McNulty Mrs. Mary McTigue Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Meehan Ms. Jennifer A. Meehan Sister Gladys Meindl Mr. Roberto M. Mendoza Ms. Johanna Mentlewicz Mrs. Janet Metzger† Mrs. Cheryl Meyer Dr. Thomas J. Meyering, D.D.S. Mr. Robert Meyers Mr. James Michals Mr. Thomas Mikrut Mr. and Mrs. John E. Miller Mrs. Joan K. Miller Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Miller Mr. and Mrs. Donald B. Miriani Mr. and Mrs. Ronald E. Misek Dr. and Mrs. Francis P. Mohan Mrs. and Mrs. John Moloney Mr. and Mrs. Lonald D. Monfils Mr. and Mrs. Michael F. Montemurro Mrs. Regina M. Moore Dr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Moore Mr. John P. Moran† Mr. and Mrs. Patrick G. Moriarty Mr. and Mrs. Phillip M. Morley Mrs. Caryl Morris Mr. and Mrs. James G. Morris Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Mrozek Mr. and Mrs. Ernest J. Mrozek Mr. and Mrs. Brian J. Muckian Mr. and Mrs. James L. Mudrock Mr. Peter A. Mueller Mr. and Mrs. Gary S. Mueller Mr. and Mrs. Joseph V. Mullarkey Mrs. Dorothy G. Mullarkey Mr. and Mrs. William Mullen Mr. and Mrs. John Mulligan Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Munster Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Murawski Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Murin Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth R. Murphy Ms. Jacqueline A. Murphy Mr. and Mrs. Bernard J. Murray Mr. Michael E. Murtaugh Ms. Geralyn Muscato Ms. Laura J. Nalepka Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Napleton National Religious Retirement Office Ms. Eileen Burns Neary Network For Good Mr. and Mrs. John A. Neumann Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Neville www.midwestaugustinians.org
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Newbauer Ms. Mary Ann Newbill Mr. and Mrs. James F. Newton, Jr. Mr. Kenneth W. Newton Mrs. Molly A. Nickell Mr. Daniel J. Niemiec Mr. Robert E. Nolan Mr. and Mrs. William H. Nolan Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Norman, II Mr. and Mrs. Bruce A. Norrick Mr. and Mrs. Walter T. Norton, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Dale D. Novak Mr. John Ochoa Mr. and Mrs. James G. O'Connor Ms. Arlene M. O'Connor Mr. and Mrs. Patrick F. O'Connor Mrs. Renate M. O'Connor O'Fallon Properties Mr. Daniel M. Offner Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Ogrodnik Mr. and Mrs. Roman R. Okrei Mr. Norbert E. Olaska Mr. Kevin O'Leary Mr. and Mrs. Eric A. Olesen Mr. and Mrs. Francis L. Olinger Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Oliver Mrs. Joanne U. Olson Ms. Margaret A. Olson Mr. and Mrs. Edward Oprzedek Mr. Michael J. O'Rourke Ms. Harriet Ortiz Ms. L. H. Ostrowski Mr. and Mrs. Harry J. O'Sullivan Mrs. Betty O'Toole Ms. Patrice O'Toole Our Lady of the Woods Parish Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Ourso, III Overt Press Inc. Mr. Donald W. Pacer Ms. Barbara A. Pachla Mr. and Mrs. John Pagan Mr. and Mrs. Dennis C. Palgen, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Palmasani Mr. and Mrs. Michael Panice Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Panozzo Mr. Fred J. Papp, III Mr. and Mrs. John Pappas Mr. and Mrs. John V. Paris, II Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Pastir Ms. Jessica Patnoudes Mrs. Lorraine Pavelcik Mr. Chris Pavelich Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Pavletic Mr. and Mrs. Jerome E. Pawelak Mr. and Mrs. Gregory R. Pawell Mr. Raymond Pawlak Mr. and Mrs. Gregory M. Pawlowski 27
Mr. and Mrs. Duane R. Pecci Mr. and Mrs. Ray Pecor Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Pelayo Mr. Joe Pellatt Mr. and Mrs. Louis Penza, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Manuel F. Perez Mr. and Mrs. Richard Perry Mrs. Margaret J. Persicketti Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Persicketti Mr. and Mrs. Mark C. Peskor Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Peters Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. Petkus Mr. and Mrs. Frank Petrosino Mr. and Mrs. Guy Petruzzelli Mrs. Geraldine Pfluger Mr. Michael A. Phillips Mr. and Mrs. Antoine A. Phillips Mr. and Mrs. Phillip P. Pilon Mr. and Mrs. Ronald F. Pilon Ms. Susan J. Pinneke Mr. and Mrs. Charles F. Pintar Mr. Terrence V. Pintar Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence D. Piwnicki Mr. Lawrence Placzek Ms. Donna S. Plane Ms. M. J. Plotz Mr. James Polis Mr. Christopher M. Polis and Ms. Jennifer Perkins Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ponschke Dr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Porsche Mr. Stanley J. Potempa Mr. and Mrs. Bradford E. Powers Mr. and Mrs. Paul Poy Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Pozzi Mr. and Mrs. Kirby Pretet Mr. John J. Prevost Mr. Neil Prewitt Dr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Prieboy, D.O., M.D. Priests Appreciation Foundation Ms. Julie M. Primozic Providence Catholic High School Providence Mens and Womens Club Mr. Thomas J. Purtell Mr. and Mrs. Alois R. Pustejovsky Mr. and Mrs. Emil J. Pustejovsky Mr. and Mrs. Terrence J. Quandt Mrs. Ellen Quinn Racine Community Foundation Mr. and Mrs. J. Britt Radford Mr. and Mrs. Brian J. Rahilly Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Ramirez Mr. and Mrs. Victor Ramirez Mr. and Mrs. Timothy M. Ramsay Mr. Jose R. Randall Mrs. Catherine A. Randolph Mr. and Mrs. Joseph I. Raphael 28
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Raths Mr. and Mrs. Leonard A. Ratuszny Ms. Kate Records Mr. and Mrs. John and Anne Reedy Mr. and Mrs. William Reilley, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. William Reilley Jr. Mr. and Mrs. John Reilley Ms. Margaret Reilley Mr. and Mrs. Ben J. Reilly Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Reimann Mr. and Mrs. Robert Reins Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Relstab Mr. and Mrs. James F. Relstab Mr. Andrew Relstab Mr. Nicholas Relstab Ms. Barbara Rendak Mr. and Mrs. Wayne T. Renderman Ms. Cynthia Rey Dr. Sean T. Reynolds, Ph.D. Mr. Terrence M. Richards Mr. and Mrs. Patrick J. Richel Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Ricken Mr. and Mrs. Rick Rickerson Mr. and Mrs. Walter C. Righton Ms. Sharon Riley Ms. Kathy Riley Mr. and Mrs. Francisco Rivero Dr. and Mrs. John D. Roarty Mr. Charles J. Roarty, Jr. Mr. Phillip Roberge Dcn. and Mrs. Joseph Roccasalva Mrs. JoAnn Rodi Mr. and Mrs. Patrick E. Rohan Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Rojek Mr. John Romane Mr. and Mrs. James Rossi Mr. and Mrs. Thomas G. Rumishek Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Russell Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Russotto Mr. Charles R. Rutan Mrs. Nancy E. Ryan and Dr. Bernard E. Ryan Mr. and Mrs. Edward M. Ryan Mr. James J. Ryan Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Ryan Dcn. Kevin Ryan Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence J. Ryan Mrs. Patricia J. Ryan-Fouts and Mr. Steven Ryan-Fouts Mr. David Sajdak† Mr. Gerald Sajdak Mr. and Mrs. Wallace F. Salabura Mr. and Mrs. Alvaro Saldivar Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Sandilla Mr. and Mrs. William C. Santino Mr. and Mrs. Mark Santschi Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Santucci Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sarley The Midwest Augustinian
Mr. and Mrs. John F. Sattler Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Saunders Mrs. Verona M. Sawyer Mr. and Mrs. Lee Schaefer Ms. Margaret M. Schauer Mr. and Mrs. James W. Scheuerell Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence P. Schiavone Mr. William C. Schick Mr. and Mrs. William L. Schloss, III Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Schluter Mrs. Debbie Schmitt Mr. Robert J. Schmitz Mr. and Mrs. Mark Schmitz Ms. Mary K. Schneider Ms. Margaret A. Schneider Ms. Jessica Schnurr Mr. and Mrs. Richard Schouten Dr. and Mrs. Lawrence J. Schouten Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Schouten Ms. Diana L. Schroeder Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Schroeder Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Schury Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Scianna Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Scianna Ms. Mary L. Seeley Mr. and Mrs. Edward G. Seimetz Mr. Joseph Seliga Mr. John Seper Mr. and Mrs. John C. Serafini Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Sevenoaks Mr. and Mrs. Daniel L. Shamblin Mr. and Mrs. William M. Shanahan Ms. Amy Shanle Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Shanle Mr. Michael J. Shannon Mr. Joseph Sheahan Mr. Thomas Sheahan Mr. Michael J. Sheridan Ms. Sheila Sheridan Ms. Noreen Sheridan and Mr. Glenn Fink Mr. and Mrs. Philip Sherry Mr. and Mrs. Thomas M. Shields Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth W. Shinkus Mr. Joseph A. Shore Mrs. Marie C. Shroba Mr. and Mrs. Brian Simikoski Mr. and Mrs. James J. Simnick Mrs. Bonnie Simpson Dr. and Mrs. James L. Singer Mr. Dennis Sipich Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Sise Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Sise Sisters of St. Casimir Sisters of St. Rita Mr. and Mrs. Mark S. Siwek Mr. and Mrs. Martin P. Slark Dr. William H. Slavin, III, D.D.S. † Deceased
Ms. Cecelia Slezak Mr. and Mrs. Douglas A. Slusarski Dr. and Mrs. William W. Small Mr. Kenneth Smidowicz Mrs. Sally J. Smith Mr. Michael E. Smith Mr. Lawrence Smith Mr. and Mrs. Robert Smith Mrs. Barbara Smith Mr. Reeves E. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Kevin R. Smith Mrs. Roxann Smith Mr. Zachary J. Smolinski, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Smuczynski Mr. and Mrs. Colin Sniff Sr. Ruth M. Snyder, O.S.F. Mr. Joseph Sokachitch Mr. James Somday Mr. John S. Sosnowski Mr. and Mrs. William Sotak Mrs. Gertrude M. Spain Ms. Bonnie Spalla Mr. and Mrs. William J. Spatz, Jr. Mr. Gerald T. Spatz Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Spicer Mr. and Mrs. John C. St. Andre Mr. and Mrs. Raymond St. Aubin St. Bernard Catholic Church St. Isaac Jogues Parish St. John the Evangelist Church St. Jude Parish St. Patrick Church - Armonk St. Rita of Cascia H.S. Father's Club St. Rita of Cascia High School St. Rita of Cascia Parish - Chicago, IL St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel St. Thomas of Villanova College St. Thomas the Apostle St. Turibius Parish Mr. and Mrs. Alan Staab Mr. and Mrs. Jay J. Standring, Jr. Ms. Kathy Stanic Mr. Richard Stanley Mr. Ryan M. Stapinski Mr. and Mrs. George M. Stapleton Mr. and Mrs. Charles Starcevich Mr. and Mrs. John M. Starkey Ms. Christine M. Starkey Mr. Richard J. Steinbarth Mr. and Mrs. John Steinmetz Mr. and Mrs. John R. Stevenson Ms. Linda Sticklen Mr. and Mrs. Nick A. Stiso Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Stobba Rev. Joseph G. Stobba, O.S.A. Mr. and Mrs. Louis V. Storino Mrs. and Mr. James Hahn
Mr. Ken Stransky Mr. and Mrs. Richard Stringham Mr. Ronald J. Stuchl Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Sturdy Mr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Sullivan Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Sullivan, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Tim Summers Mr. and Mrs. David L. Suranovic Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Swanson Mr. and Mrs. Raymond J. Swiatek Mrs. Celine T. Szykowny Mr. and Mrs. Anthony A. Tadin Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Tanghe Teddy Bear Nursery Schools, Inc. Ms. Katrina Teh Mr. Charles D. Thomas Thomas W. Dower Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Dave Thompson Mr. and Mrs. James B. Tierney Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Tierney Mr. and Mrs. Gregory J. Tonner Mr. Robert S. Topor and Ms. Rachel A. Rone Ms. Diana M. Torres Mr. and Mrs. George L. Tracy Mr. and Mrs. John C. Trainor Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Tribuani, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Utter Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth J. Valentas Mrs. Joann F. Van Antwerp Mr. and Mrs. John M. Van Antwerp Mr. and Mrs. Thomas H. Van Egmond Ms. Karen A. Van Huezen Mr. and Mrs. Jerome W. Van Treeck Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Van Zeyl Mr. and Mrs. Harlan R. Vance Mr. and Mrs. Simon J. Vancina Mr. and Mrs. David Vanisko Mr. and Mrs. Mark VanSile Mr. and Mrs. Michael Vatch Mr. and Mrs. David L. Vaughan Mr. and Mrs. Arthur R. Velasquez Mr. and Mrs. David A. Veneziano Ms. Sondra K. Vignali Mrs. Josephine Vignasse Mr. Sam Vinci Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Voss Ms. Janet Votano Mr. William C. Waddell Ms. Jean E. Waden Mr. and Mrs. Glennon J. Waeckerle Mr. Richard A. Wagner Ms. Nora Waliczek Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Walker Mr. and Mrs. Patrick K. Walls Mr. and Mrs. John J. Walsh Mr. and Mrs. Jim Walsh Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Walsh www.midwestaugustinians.org
Mr. Patrick M. Walsh Mr. and Mrs. Craig Walter Mr. and Mrs. John A. Ward Mr. Frank J. Ward Mr. and Mrs. James M. Watson Mr. and Mrs. Thomas P. Weigel Mr. and Mrs. Bernard D. Welch Ms. Judith Wells Mr. and Mrs. James F. Werner Ms. Mollie E. Werwas Mr. David Westerberg Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey M. Whalen Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Whealen Ms. Josephine Wilczak Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Willenborg Mr. and Mrs. Warner P. Williams Mr. and Mrs. Ward T. Williams Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Williams Mr. and Mrs. Danny Williams Ms. Patricia A. Wilson Mr. Don Wiltfong Ms. Kathleen Winters Mr. and Mrs. Gerald J. Wirth Mr. and Mrs. John P. Wise Ms. Dolores Wistort Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Withers Mr. and Mrs. Thomas L. Witte Mr. Martin H. Wojcik Dr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Wolf Mr. and Mrs. Edward A. Wolking, Jr. The Wooden Spoon Mrs. Trudi Woodlock Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. Wortman Mr. and Mrs. Bruce J. Wozny Mr. and Mrs. Carter H. Wright, Jr. Mr. Wendell Wright and Dr. Hollye Wright Dr. Thomas A. Wroblewski, M.D. Mrs. Susan C. Yant Mr. and Mrs. Theodore E. Zalas Ms. Rita Zalewski Mr. and Mrs. Ronald A. Zanin Dr. and Mrs. Richard J. Zaranek Ms. Rebecca Zartman Mr. and Mrs. Stanley V. Zawila Mr. and Mrs. Anthony J. Zordan Dr. and Mrs. Michael P. Zygmunt, M.D. Every effort has been made to present a complete and accurate list of donors. If an error or omission has occurred, we apologize and ask that you bring it to our attention by contacting Ed Barrett, Director of Advancement at (773) 6145898, ed@midwestaugustinians.org or JoAnn Altenbach (773) 614-5881, joann@ midwestaugustinians.org 29
In Memoriam 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.
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Rev. James Sheridan, O.S.A. Fr. Sheridan unexpectedly passed away on the Solemnity of St. Augustine, August 28, 2023. He will be remembered for how he served with obedience and pastoral leadership. He was 88 years old.
Haroldene "Dene" Wasetis Dene passed away peacefully. She was the mother of Affiliate Denise Utter, and mother-in-law of Affiliate and Advancement Council Member Robert Utter. She was 76 years old.
Mr. Joseph P. McCormick Mr. Joseph P. McCormick, father of Margie Hopkins, OSA Affiliate and employee at St. Rita of Cascia High School, passed away on September 2, 2023. He was 90 years old.
Rev. Michael P. Sullivan, O.S.A. Fr. Sullivan, of the Villanova Province, was profoundly grateful for good friends and for a wonderfully rewarding life as a preacher of the Gospel. He was 83 years old.
Rev. Edward John Dixey, O.S.A. Fr. Ed, a friar from the Villanova Province, peacefully passed away on August 31, 2023, at Genesis Wayne Center. He was 94 years old.
Nancy Vaughan, OSA Affiliate Augustinian Affiliate Nancy Ann Knebel Swab Vaughan passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her children. She loved her family, Cascia Hall, and St. Rita Chapel. She was 88.
Sister Grace Ann Kalafut, SSC Sister Grace Ann (formerly Sister M. Patrick) lived a long life of ministry and service within the church as an educator and advocate in her community. She was 87 years old.
Gary LaGere Gary LaGere, husband of OSA Affiliate Ann LaGere, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 30, 2023. He was 85 years old.
Raymond Shanley Raymond Shanley, a former Augustinian from the Villanova Province, passed away at age 83.
Dr. John "Jack" Kauth, MD, OSA Affiliate Dr. Kauth passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 8, 2023 at home in Tulsa, OK. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Beverley, also an Affiliate.
Ret. Maj. Terrence "TJ" Cuny, USMC TJ was the brother of the late Fr. Timothy Cuny, O.S.A. He passed away at the age of 72.
Rev. W. Howard McGraw, O.S.A. Fr. W. Howard McGraw, O.S.A. of the Villanovat Province passed away on the morning of September 15. He was 92 years old.
The Midwest Augustinian
De izquierda a derecha: Prior Provincial de la Provincia de Santo Tomás de Villanova, P. Robert Hagan, O.S.A., Provincia de San Agustín en California Prior Provincial P. Gary Sanders, O.S.A., Provincia de Nuestra Madre del Buen Consejo Prior Provincial P. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A., Diácono Michael Riggs, O.S.A.
Carta del Prior Provincial Muy Rev. Anthony B. Pizzo, O.S.A.
Una vez más, tengo el honor de presentarles a ustedes, amigos de los agustinos del Medio Oeste, el último número de nuestra revista Midwest Augustinian. Gracias por ser una parte valiosa de nuestra comunidad. A lo largo de los desafíos y oportunidades de nuestros tiempos, esta comunidad sigue siendo uno de los aspectos fuertes y centrales de nuestra tradición agustiniana mientras vivimos nuestra fe católica. En las páginas de esta edición de nuestra revista, compartimos historias de diversos rincones de nuestra comunidad. Desde historias sobre hombres que profesan sus primeros votos a nuestra Orden a hombres que han sido ordenados sacerdotes durante 70 años a historias sobre nuestro acercamiento a los jóvenes y nuestro trabajo para apoyar y albergar a los refugiados. En esta comunidad agustiniana hay lugar para todos. Y nos alegra que seas parte de ello. Que las historias contenidas en estas páginas te inspiren, te desafíen y te recuerden la profunda belleza y sabiduría que se pueden encontrar en la tradición agustiniana. Juntos, caminemos hacia adelante, buscar la verdad, abrazar la comunidad y vivir las enseñanzas de San Agustín en nuestra vida diaria. Gracias por ser una parte vital de nuestra familia agustiniana. Su presencia, su apoyo y su dedicación son verdaderamente una fuente de fortaleza e inspiración para todos nosotros.
Muy Rev. Anthony Benedetto Pizzo, O.S.A. Prior Provincial
www.midwestaugustinians.org
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A medida que las hojas comienzan a cambiar y el clima se enfría, nuestras parroquias, escuelas y ministerios continúan estando activas. Nuestros frailes han estado ocupados apoyando nuestros diversos ministerios, y nuestras comunidades han estado celebrando su herencia y tradiciones agustinas. Las siguientes secciones incluyen resúmenes rápidos de lo que ha estado sucediendo en la provincia. Para estar al día con los acontecimientos más recientes, suscríbase a nuestros boletines electrónicos, reflexiones diarias y cuentas de redes sociales visitando nuestro sitio web en www.midwestaugustinians.org
Comenzando con el servicio: El día de retiro del personal de Cascia Hall
En la Escuela Preparatoria Cascia Hall College en Tulsa, OK, los profesores y el personal habitualmente comienzan cada nuevo año académico con un retiro o día de reflexión juntos para recordarles su misión y vocación como educadores de escuelas católicas. Este año aproximadamente 75 personas comenzaron el día en el campus de Caridades Católicas.
El personal y los profesores recorrieron sus instalaciones donde los estudiantes han trabajado a lo largo de los años como parte de su Requisitos del servicio de Cáritas. El grupo también aportó servicio en los jardines, el mercado y el almacén del campus. Además, reflexionaron juntos sobre los principios básicos de la Enseñanza
Social Católica en el trabajo de servir a los pobres y consideraron la aplicación de estos principios al trabajo de la educación en Cascia Hall. Finalmente, celebraron una misa y almorzaron juntos. Los maestros y el personal informan que fue una experiencia beneficiosa de compañerismo y servicio, una excelente manera de comenzar un nuevo año académico.
Compañerismo y Comunidad en la parroquia Santo Toribio
La Procesión del Corpus Christi celebra las diferentes nacionalidades de los feligreses.
“Día del Santo Favorito” donde los estudiantes de educación religiosa se disfrazan de santo.
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La comunidad parroquial de Santo Toribio en Chicago, IL, ha estado activa durante los últimos meses realizando eventos y creando oportunidades de compañerismo y amistad. Esto incluyó un viaje para ver los Windy City Thunderbolts, un equipo de béisbol local de la Frontier League en Crestwood, Illinois, que fue un verdadero éxito entre los que asistieron. El Festival Parroquial fue una gran oportunidad para que las familias se conocieran y conectaran, experimentando cada uno las culturas y alimentos de otros. Había juegos y actividades disponibles para personas de todas las edades. Sto. Toribio también celebró Noches The Midwest Augustinian
de Cine de Comunidad con “UP” y “Toy Story” de Disney con perros calientes y botanas proporcionados a los que asistieron. La Procesión anual de Corpus Christi de la parroquia fue una oportunidad para celebrar la diversidad de los feligreses con varios altares instalados alrededor de la cuadra para celebrar las tradiciones de habla hispana, inglesa y polaca con canciones y oraciones. Finalmente, los jóvenes de educación religiosa disfrutaron celebrando el “Día del Santo Favorito”, donde se disfrazaron de sus santos favoritos y escribieron sobre por qué eligieron a ese santo como su favorito.
Un Cardenal Agustino Cardenal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A. Nuestro propio, el p. Robert Prevost, O.S.A., fue elevado recientemente a cardenal el 30 de septiembre. El Cardenal Prevost nació en Chicago, Illinois, y obtuvo una Licenciatura en Matemáticas de la Universidad de Villanova en 1977, donde comenzaría un viaje espiritual que lo llevaría al corazón de la Iglesia a través de la Orden Agustiniana. Después de Villanova, recibió una Maestría en Divinidad en Teología de la Unión Teológica Católica en Chicago y luego estudió Derecho Canónico en la Universidad Pontificia de Santo Tomás de Aquino en Roma. Fue ordenado sacerdote en 1982 y recibió su Licenciatura en 1984. Después de servir durante más de una década en las misiones agustinas en Perú, el Cardenal Prevost regresó a los Estados Unidos para enseñar y ser Prior Provincial de la Provincia del Medio Oeste y luego sirvió como Prior General, o líder mundial, de la Orden Agustiniana durante dos mandatos de 2001 a 2013. Posteriormente fue Obispo de la Diócesis de Chiclayo en Perú y luego fue nombrado Prefecto del Dicasterio para los Obispos en 2023.
“Sólo pido al Señor el ser fiel en el intento de cumplir lo que el Papa Francisco y la Iglesia me piden ahora.” -Cardenal Robert Prevost, O.S.A.
TPara leer el comunicado de Vatican News y escuchar una entrevista con el cardenal Prevost, escanee el código QR o visite https://www. vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-07/cardinal-designate-prevostsees-new-role-as-way-walk-together.html
El p. Robert Prevost, O.S.A., quien ha ocupado múltiples cargos de alto rango en la Provincia, la Orden y la Iglesia, aparece aquí con el Papa Francisco y el Papa Benedicto XVI.
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La comunidad santuario E
l aire brilla a través de la pista del aeropuerto O'Hare cuando una joven pareja sale del puente de embarque y entra a la terminal, cada uno con una bolsa de supermercado llena de pertenencias. Fuera de las ventanas, los trabajadores han comenzado a arrojar equipaje al azar sobre una cinta rodante. La pareja no se molesta en buscar sus maletas. Esas bolsas de la compra llevan todo lo que tienen. El hombre mete la mano en el bolsillo y saca su teléfono. Tiene batería suficiente para llamar a un número nunca ha usado antes. El número de un hombre con el que nunca ha hablado, pero del que ha oído hablar mucho. Él marca. El teléfono suena. Al otro lado de la línea, contesta el obispo Dan Turley, O.S.A. «¿Hola?»
Cómo los agustinos del Medio Oeste y la comunidad católica de Chicago apoyan a los refugiados. «Porque fui forastero, y me recogisteis». Mateo 25:35
Más de 10,000 solicitantes de asilo
llegaron a Chicago desde agosto de 2022, de Centro y Sudamérica según el ayuntamiento. Los refugiados llegan en masa en avión, tren y autobús, abrumando a una ya tensa red de refugios. Incluso cuando Chicago, una “ciudad santuario” para los inmigrantes, se esfuerza por movilizar recursos y abrir puertas a comisarías de policía de toda la ciudad como refugios para pasar la noche, todavía no existe una solución sostenible al desafío de brindarles a estas familias el tipo de apoyo que necesitan para recuperarse, dejando a las organizaciones comunitarias llenar los vacíos. Organizaciones como los Agustinos del Medio Oeste. Cuando el obispo Dan recibió la llamada de la joven pareja varada en el aeropuerto, pidiendo ayuda para encontrar vivienda, los agustinos no tenían un protocolo establecido para brindar refugio a los refugiados, aparte de aquel que establece la Arquidiócesis de Chicago. 34
Las familias han soportado viajes largos y peligrosos juntas. Aquí, el p. Homero da la bienvenida a uno de los más jóvenes inmigrantes a la comunidad.
Nos mirábamos unos a otros como, “¿qué hacemos con ellos?”», recuerda el p. Homero Sánchez, O.S.A., párroco de la Parroquia Santa Rita de Casia y de la Iglesia Santa Clara. Terminó pagándoles un hotel por cinco noches a la pareja mientras él averiguaba dónde moverlos próximamente. The Midwest Augustinian
Apenas unos días después de la primera llamada, una segunda pareja llegó a las puertas de la parroquia pidiendo un lugar donde quedarse. El p. Homero comenzó a acercarse a organizaciones comunitarias, a otras parroquias y a la provincia, buscando formas de apoyar y albergar a estos refugiados.
Amedidaquesecorriólavoz,losfeligreses estaban ansiosos por unirse a la causa. «Necesitamos ayudar a nuestros vecinos; es parte de nuestra fe, amarnos unos a otros y ayudarnos unos a otros en la necesidad», dice María Larry, feligresa de Sta. Rita y una de las primeras voluntarias de un comité de ayuda llamado Migrant Help Commitee. «Yo también tengo una hija de 12 años y no podía imaginarme [vivir fuera de una estación de policía]». Lo que comenzó como una respuesta única apoyada por unos pocos, se convirtió en un proceso estructurado habilitado por docenas de voluntarios. Pronto, el programa de apoyo a refugiados de Sta. Rita encontró apartamentos disponibles y pagó los primeros meses de alquiler, la obtención de muebles y suministros para el hogar nuevos y usados para estas familias de refugiados, desde electrodomésticos grandes hasta cosas tan simples como un abrelatas. Además, los voluntarios traerían semanalmente comida a las familias y les ayudaban a encontrar trabajo, comunicándose en algunos casos mediante aplicaciones de traducción con refugiados que sólo hablaban español. En cuestión de meses, el Migrant Help Commitee de Santa Rita y Santa Clara estaba ayudando a una o dos familias por semana mudarse fuera de los campamentos de refugiados que quedaban cerca de las estaciones de policía locales, donde la ciudad de Chicago les había permitido quedarse, a viviendas temporales. El impacto iba en aumento. A medida que crecía la respuesta y llegaban más refugiados a la ciudad, los agustinos continuaron tomando conciencia y apoyando el trabajo que otras organizaciones estaban realizando, y recibiendo apoyo de organizaciones como Caridades Católicas, las Hermanas de San Casimiro, Ray y Millie McCarthy Charitable Fund, Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP), las parroquias San Judas y San Nicolas, entre otras. La Renovación Parroquial de Southside, (Southside Parish Renewal) una colaboración de cuatro parroquias: Cristo Rey, San Bernabé, San Cayetano y
La fruta fresca es un refrigerio bienvenido para estos inmigrantes, que actualmente se refugian frente a una comisaría de policía.
San Juan Fisher – es uno de los grupos con los que los agustinos y el prior provincial p. Tony Pizzo, O.S.A., trabajaron para apoyar a la comunidad de refugiados, incluso celebrando una misa al aire libre predicada en español. «Empezamos a escuchar a los voluntarios y personas que interactuaban [con los refugiados], que decían: “Esta gente está realmente sufriendo y les encantaría ver un sacerdote que hable español'’», dice Maureen Gainer Reilly, uno de los miembros laicos de la junta de Southside Parish Renewal y feligrés de San Bernabé, quién coordina la ayuda a los refugiados. «Podemos hacer cosas más importantes porque estamos trabajando juntos». Ese espíritu de colaboración ha sido fundamental para la respuesta de toda la comunidad. Y a medida que el trabajo que los agustinos y otras parroquias de la Arquidiócesis de Chicago se extienden, el impulso está creciendo y cada vez más personas se involucran, en formas grandes y pequeñas. «Es como sumergir el dedo del pie en el agua; una vez que lo haces, te sumerges bastante rápido», dice p. Larry Sullivan, párroco de la parroquia Cristo Rey. «Este es realmente un aspecto esencial de vivir la vida del Evangelio». Sólo en agosto de 2023, la comunidad agustina colocó a 22 familias de refugiados (92 personas) en hogares estables: la mayor cantidad que jamás hayan colocado. Pero hay más familias esperando. Para el p. Homero y los Agustinos del Medio Oeste, el trabajo está lejos de terminar. www.midwestaugustinians.org
«La Regla de San Agustín dice: “dad a todos no por igual, sino según sus necesidades”», explica el p. Homero. «Y somos pobres y hacemos voto de pobreza, pero nuestra pobreza no es simplemente “no tener suficiente”, es compartir lo que tenemos. Compartimos mucha esperanza aquí». Esperanza y recursos. En promedio, pagar el primer mes de alquiler de una familia de refugiados cuesta alrededor de $1,500 dólares, un costo que es dividido en algunos casos con Caridades Católicas y financiado por donantes privados. Pero los impactos de ese costo no tienen precio. Durante el año pasado, las familias de refugiados que habían sido apoyadas por los agustinos volvieron a una estabilidad financiera, encontrando trabajo en la comunidad, asumiendo sus propios pagos de alquiler, compraron automóviles y mascotas, y retribuyeron a las comunidades parroquiales que los apoyaron. Para el p. Homero, esto es el éxito parece y es uno de los aspectos centrales de su comunidad parroquial. «En 1905, los inmigrantes construyeron esta comunidad, la parroquia de Santa Rita y Santa Clara, por lo que nuestras raíces son de inmigrantes», afirma. «La hospitalidad es parte de ser agustino». Para apoyar los esfuerzos de ayuda a los refugiados de la Provincia Agustina del Medio Oeste con su tiempo, talentos, y tesoro, por favor contacte al p. Homero Sánchez, O.S.A., en homeroosa@ gmail.com (Parroquia Santa Rita de Casia) o a Los Agustinos del Medio Oeste en 10161 Longwood Drive, Chicago, IL 60643.
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Augustinian The
Midwest
Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel 10161 S. Longwood Drive Chicago, IL 60643
(Left) Fr. Ray Flores, O.S.A., and Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. welcome their new Brothers into the Order at the First Profession of Vows.