NAC Magazine: Spring 2012

SPRING 2 0 1 2 M A G A Z I N E

“To Serve the Church

With Love and Vigor”

Pope Benedict XVI

EDITORIAL STAFF

The Pontifical North American College

Editor Charles Samson ‘13 Archdiocese of Saint Louis

Rector’s Corner

Contents

Installation of Acolytes Layout and Design Manager John Mitchell ‘13 Archdiocese of Milwaukee Assistant Layout and Design Manager Kyle Digmann ‘14 Diocese of Dubuque & Christopher Kerzich ‘14 Archdiocese of Chicago Assistant Editors Justin Blanc ‘14 Diocese of WheelingCharleston & Sheldon Momaney ‘14 Diocese of Burlington Photographers Brian Buettner ‘13 Archdiocese of Oklahoma City & Christopher Brashears ‘14 Archdiocese of Oklahoma City & Michael Conway ‘14 Diocese of Pittsburgh FRONT COVER His Eminence Edwin Cardinal O’Brien C‘76, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem, and His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan ‘76, Archbishop of New York, share their joy after being made cardinals by Pope Benedict XVI. Photo Credit: L’Osservatore Romano (used with permission).

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Pastoral Formation Focus

Rev. Msgr. James Checchio

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Joseph Kuharski ‘14

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Rev. John Costello 6

Consistory 2012: Thanksgiving for Our Rectors Joseph Langan ‘14 8 Academic Dean Named Rector of Mount Angel Seminary 11 First Cycle Focus: STB Programs Lenten Station Church Pilgrimage Lenten Day of Recollection

David Rider ‘14

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Rev. Ronald Check C‘12

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Alex Kreidler ‘15

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Life at the College Holy Week at the College Pilgrimage to Ars College Theater: Back on Stage

Matthew Dalrymple ‘14

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Rev. Mr. Jadyn Nelson ‘12

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Mark Baumgarten ‘14 20

Student Steering Committees

Brendan Bartlett ‘13

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An Alumnus Reflects

Rev. John Burns ‘10 22 Rev. Daniel Kirby, ICTE, S‘12 23

Thanks Be to God

Priestly Ministry at the Casa Santa Maria Rev. Thomas Kunz ‘04, C‘12 24 Economo’s Corner

Rev. Msgr. Michael Farmer 25

Save the Date: 2012 Alumni Reunion

Back Cover

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

The coat of arms of the Pontifical North American College marks the candlesticks that line the altar in the College’s Assumption Chapel.

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Inside

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

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First Cycle Academics

College Theater

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

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Holy Week

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Lenten Station Churches

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

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Installation of Acolytes Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

of the

Board of Governors

Pontifical North American College Chairman Most Rev. John J. Myers ‘67 Archbishop of Newark

Vice Chairman Most Rev. John C. Nienstedt ‘73, C‘84 Archbishop of St. Paul and Minneapolis

Treasurer Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane ‘88, C‘89 Bishop of Venice

Secretary Most Rev. Patrick J. Zurek ‘75 Bishop of Amarillo

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

The view from the roof of the College’s Janiculum campus provides an inspiring view of Michelangelo’s famous dome, which crowns Saint Peter’s Basilica.

Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl ‘67 Archbishop of Washington

Rector Rev. Msgr. James F. Checchio ‘92, C‘97

Vice Rector for Administration Rev. Msgr. Michael Farmer ‘95

Vice Rector of Seminary Life

Most Rev. Frank Caggiano C‘96 Auxiliary Bishop of Brooklyn

Most Rev. Salvatore Cordileone ‘82, C‘89 Bishop of Oakland

Most Rev. Thomas G. Doran ‘62, C‘78 Bishop of Rockford

Rev. Timothy McKeown ‘97

Most Rev. Walter J. Edyvean ‘65, C‘71

Superior, Casa Santa Maria

Most Rev. Bernard A. Hebda ‘89

Rev. Msgr. Francis Kelly ‘64, C‘02

Auxiliary Bishop of Boston Bishop of Gaylord

Most Rev. John M. Kudrick Bishop of the Eparchy of Parma

Most Rev. Richard E. Pates ‘69 Bishop of Des Moines

Most Rev. Glen J. Provost ‘75 Bishop of Lake Charles

Most Rev. Michael J. Sheehan ‘65, C‘71 Archbishop of Santa Fe

Most Rev. John Vlazny ‘62 Archbishop of Portland

RECTOR’S CORNER Rev. Msgr. James Checchio ‘92, C‘97 Diocese of Camden Rector

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ope Benedict XVI, in his homily at the consistory of February 18th, preached: “These beloved brothers will be united with new and stronger bonds not only to the Roman Pontiff, but also to the entire community of the faithful spread throughout the world. They will be called to consider and evaluate the events, problems, and pastoral criteria which concern the mission of the entire Church.” Further, he added: “They are asked to serve the Church with love and vigor, with the transparency and wisdom of teachers, with the energy and strength of shepherds, with the fidelity and courage of martyrs. They are to be eminent servants of the Church, which finds in Peter the visible foundation of Her unity.”

Two of our beloved former rectors of the Pontifical North American College—Edwin Cardinal O’Brien C‘76, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem, and Timothy Cardinal Dolan ‘76, Archbishop of New York—were included in this consistory’s group of newly-created cardinals. During their time as rectors, the College greatly benefited from their strong, wise, and faithful leadership, and we still do today as they continue to help guide the College as exactly the type of pastors they were encouraged to be by our Holy Father.

The seminarians and student priests of our College were fortunate to join with the many alumni, bishops, priests, religious, deacons, family, friends, and lay faithful that came to Rome as pilgrims. Together, we prayed with, supported, and thanked these two wonderful shepherds of our Church as they participated in the consistory called by our Holy Father. It was a joyful, prayerful time! You will read more about these days and these new cardinals in this edition of the magazine. Ad multos annos to them, and our thanks for all that they have done over the years for, and continue to give to, our College. They are good role models of dedicated service to Christ and His Church, and we are blessed to know them well from their frequent visits to Alma Mater.

Additionally, you will read in this edition of the magazine—produced and written by our students—about the many efforts that are made to form well-trained and zealous shepherds for the care of our Church, including: our Lenten Day of Recollection, Lenten Station Churches, Holy Week celebrations at the seminary, the Easter Week retreat in Ars, the College Theater program, the work of our pastoral council and student activities committee, the Institution of new Acolytes

by Archbishop John Nienstedt ‘74 of St. Paul and Minneapolis, intellectual and pastoral formation, and apostolic works.

Inside, there are also some reflections by a priest finishing a sabbatical here at our Institute for Continuing Theological Education, another studying at the Casa Santa Maria, and finally a recent graduate undertaking his first year of parish ministry. We are blessed with seminarians from one hundred dioceses, and priests from an additional twenty-five. Over two-thirds of our dioceses in the United States currently have seminarians or priests at the College. Truly, the North American College is America’s Seminary in Rome, and the Church in the United States is well represented in Rome by these good men striving to become shepherds like the ones of which the Holy Father spoke at the consistory.

I thank you for prayerfully supporting our priests and seminarians as they, too, seek to become priests who “serve the Church with love and vigor, with the transparency and wisdom of teachers, with the energy and strength of shepherds, with the fidelity and courage of martyrs.” Enjoy this edition of the magazine. Know of our prayers for you, and how grateful we are for your generous support of the Pontifical North American College.

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Serving the Lord at the Altar: Installation of Acolytes

by Joseph Kuharski ‘14, Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis

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n a spirit of joy and expectation, the Pontifical North American College community gathered in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception on Sunday, March 4th to celebrate the institution of fifty-five men of the second year class into the ministry of Acolyte. The Most Reverend John ­Nienstedt ‘73, C‘76, Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis and Vice-Chairman of the College’s Board of Governors, was the principal celebrant for the Mass and presided at the Rite of Institution. Joining him at the altar were many of his brother bishops from Region VIII, who had just arrived for their Ad Limina Apostolorum visit with the Holy Father. Many family, friends, and visiting American priests from around Rome joined the College for Mass and the subsequent brunch.

In the life of the Church today, the ministry of Acolyte serves as a preparatory step in priestly formation, and designates a man as set aside in a special way for service at the altar of the Lord. Each new Acolyte is charged with assisting the priest and deacon in the liturgy, especially in the celebration of the Mass, and may, if needed, also serve as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. In a profound way, the Acolyte now belongs at the altar for the service of the universal Church. The new Acolytes are thus expected to deepen their understanding of the spiritual meaning of their liturgical service, reflecting upon how this service will prepare them for future ministry as a deacon and a priest.

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Jared Twenty ‘14 (Rockford) receives the ciborium as a sign of his new role of service at the altar.

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Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Joined by the bishops of Region VIII, who were in Rome for their Ad Limina visits, the College’s 55 newly-installed Acolytes stand before the altar at which they will serve during their time at the College.

In his homily, Archbishop Nienstedt urged the Acolytes to come to an even greater knowledge and appreciation of the Holy Eucharist through their new ministry at the altar. He spoke of how the revelation of the identity of Jesus in the Transfiguration had life-altering effects for Peter, James, and John. “Their horizons were opened— shattered really,” he said, “and suddenly the astounding identity of Jesus began to dawn on them.” Archbishop Nienstedt further explained how this realization allowed them to have a glimpse of the “merciful love for mankind” that Jesus would portray in a radical way on the cross.

Encouraging the new Acolytes to imitate Peter, James, and John, who grew in their reverence for Christ by their proximity to him on the mountaintop, Archbishop ­Nienstedt exhorted the second year men to “deepen [their] affection and love” for the Lord through their assistance at the celebration of the Sacred Mysteries: “As your ministry draws you more intimately and affectionately into the spiritual meaning of the Eucharist, you are urged to live a truly Eucharistic life, a life of integral, intimate love and total commitment to the good of the other.”

The entire College community congratulates the fiftyfive new acolytes, and pledges its promise of prayers for them. In the words of Archbishop Nienstedt, may their exercise of this new ministry “assist in building up the Christian community, and in furthering its growth.”

Geoffrey Brooke Jr. ‘15 (Jefferson City)

Most Rev. John C. Nienstedt ‘73, C‘76, Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, instructs Robert Wolfe ‘14 (Bridgeport) during the Rite of Institution of Acolytes.

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With the Charity of the Good Shepherd: Pastoral Formation Focus

by Rev. John J. Costello ‘89, C‘04, Diocese of Brooklyn Director of Pastoral Formation

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n important element of the formation program at the Pontifical North American College is the pastoral formation that takes place on Thursday evenings throughout the year. Since the students attend various universities for their intellectual formation in theology each day, the pastoral formation program at the College is able to focus more on the pastoral application of what they learn. Most of the faculty members come to Rome with many years of pastoral experience, and so the content of the presentations that they offer on Thursday evenings is given through the prism of parish life back in the United States.

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

The “New Men” of First Theology have as the theme of their formational conferences: “Responding to

Chris Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Rev. Msgr. Joseph Hanefeldt ‘84, the College’s outgoing Director of Spiritual Formation, speaks to the community on prayer.

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The pastoral formation of the class of 4th Theology helps to prepare them for the transition from seminary life to parish ministry.

the Call.” Their Thursday night sessions establish the foundation upon which the rest of their formation will be built, and the focus is on spiritual and human formation. The Director of Spiritual Formation, Reverend Monsignor Joseph Hanefeldt ‘84, and other spiritual directors give presentations on such topics as: “Receiving Spiritual Direction” and “Asceticism for Spiritual Growth and Embracing Celibacy,” along with conferences on each of the Evangelical Counsels of poverty, chastity and obedience. The Director of Counseling Services, Reverend Robert Blyman, MD, gives presentations on human formation that include topics, among others, like “Transitions and Relationships: Growing into Celibacy.” Other faculty members speak about time management, intellectual formation,

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in practica for the sacraments, in particular Baptism and Matrimony. Monsignor Hanefeldt speaks to them about the spirituality of diocesan priesthood, the challenges of living the promises of ordination, and the priestly work of praying for and with his people. Two evenings are also dedicated to the theme of pastoral counseling.

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City) delivers a practice homily to a group of his classmates during one of the many homily practica that are part of the formation program for the classes of 2nd and 3rd Theology.

and preparing for summer apostolate assignments. A favorite presentation for the New Men is the panel of the priests from the Institute for Continuing Theological Education, who have come to Rome on sabbatical, and who in this formation session speak to the seminarians frankly about: “The Diocesan Priest: Finding God in His Prayer and Ministry.”

After a year of transition, the men of Second Theology have as the focus of their formation conferences the theme: “Forming a Priestly Identity.” Almost half of their Thursday formation nights are homily practica in which they deliver homilies in small groups. Faculty members and other priests serve as mentors, and the men are encouraged to prepare homilies that will be effective in various parish settings. Additionally, there are presentations on spiritual themes and other topics, such as: “Effective Teaching Skills,” the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, Communion for the Sick and Viaticum, Rites of Christian Burial, and “Preparing for Parish Ministry.” The second year seminarians also participate in conferences on psychosexual development.

The men of Third Theology return to the College with a renewed enthusiasm after spending a summer in parish ministry back in their home dioceses. Since they will petition for ordination at the end of the year, their formational theme is: “Preparing for Holy Orders.” They continue with preaching practica, and they also begin to engage

In the fall, the men of Fourth Theology enter the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter’s as seminarians, and depart as newly-ordained deacons. Their formational year is dedicated to the theme: “Doing Pastoral Ministry,” and they are eager to engage in practica for celebrating the sacraments of Eucharist, Penance, and Anointing. They have evenings dedicated to parish business practices, stewardship, and administration, and there are also presentations on annulments and other canonical issues, as well as other practical aspects of parish life like pastoral councils and effective skills for meetings.

Formation does not end with ordination; priests must take seriously the imperative to continue to conform their hearts to that of the Good Shepherd. The formation program at the Pontifical North American College, following the instructions of Blessed Pope John Paul II, “aims at preparing them to enter into communion with the charity of Christ” (Pastores Dabo Vobis, 57), so that they can engage in priestly service in their dioceses with the love of the Lord. We trust that He, who has begun this good work in them, will bring it to fulfillment.

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Rev. Jeffery Burrill ‘98 leads a formation conference for the class of 2nd Theology in the Pope John Paul II Classroom.

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In Thanksgiving for Our Shepherds: Consistory 2012

by Joseph Langan ‘14, Archdiocese of Baltimore

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he morning of Saturday, February 18th was clear and brisk. The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter, glorious in the morning sun, was packed with dignitaries and pilgrims as Pope Benedict XVI, in the Ordinary Public Consistory, elevated twenty-two bishops to the College of Cardinals. The excitement that filled Saint ­Peter’s Square spilled over to the Janiculum Jill, as two of the Church’s newest cardinals were none other than His Eminence Edwin Cardinal O’Brien C‘76, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of

Jerusalem, and His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan ‘76, Archbishop of New York, both of whom are former rectors of the North American College. “It is a great day for our Church to have these two superb shepherds created cardinals,” said the current Rector, Reverend Monsignor James Checchio ‘92, C‘97, as he reflected on this momentous occasion. “It is a doubly-blessed day for us, given that the two new cardinals both served as rectors.

They have provided, and continue to provide, strong leadership for us.”

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

His Eminence Edwin Cardinal O’Brien C‘76, Rector of the College from 1990-1994, kneels before Pope Benedict XVI to receive the red biretta—a traditional hat that symbolizes the Office of Cardinal.

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Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

A shared moment of joy between the Holy Father and His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan ‘76, Rector of the College from 1994-2001, after he receives the red biretta.

In a simple yet beautiful ceremony, Pope Benedict XVI gave to each of the new cardinals a red biretta, a cardinalatial ring, and a titular church in Rome where they are recognized as honorary pastors. The ring indicates the renewed sense of commitment of each cardinal to his spouse, the Church. The red of the biretta, as the pope pointed out in his homily, means that, like the Apostles, the cardinals are “entrusted with the service of love: love for God, love for His Church, and an absolute and unconditional love for all Christ’s brothers and sisters, even unto the shedding of blood.”

After the consistory, hosts of pilgrims—about 1,500 in all—filled the College for a reception to congratulate the new cardinals. Though the lines for both former rectors were quite long, the pilgrims remained undeterred, as wave after wave of smiling supporters greeted the cardinals and snapped a photo together to remember the day. It was a moving time for everyone, especially for the seminarians, who look up to these two shepherds as exemplary priests. Peter Heasley ‘13, a seminarian from the Archdiocese of New York, reflected: “helping...Cardinal Dolan celebrate the consistory opened my eyes a bit to what precisely it means to be a cardinal. Beyond the celebrations, I was watching an apostle take his last steps up to the Cross. More so now than before, I look to my time at the College as preparation for my own small ascent up Calvary, in imitation of Cardinal Dolan’s joy and, ultimately, in imitation of Christ.”

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Cardinal O’Brien preaches from the ambo in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at the College during his Mass of Thanksgiving after the consistory.

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Cardinal Dolan bows in reverence during the consistory.

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Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

After the consistory, Cardinal Dolan shares a laugh with members of the press from New York and from around the world on the steps of the College leading into the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.

sor of Saint Peter, must always remain “under the Virgin’s mantle, within the grace-filled horizon of her ‘yes’ to God’s will.” Cardinal O’Brien insisted that, “without deep prayer, which prompts loving and self-sacrificing service, humility, and obedience to the Word of God, the radical core of our lives—the faith we see in Mary—will be lacking.”

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Cardinal O’Brien processes past the altar in Saint Peter’s Basilica during the consistory.

Indeed, Our Lady keeps all of us grounded by showing us the way to greatest conformity with her Son. In the prayerful and priestly examples of Cardinals O’Brien and Dolan, we can all find inspiration to give ourselves more fully to the service of Christ and his Church.

Later that day, a public reception was held at the Paul VI Audience Hall in the Vatican to which the whole city was invited in order to welcome the newest members of the Roman clergy. The weekend culminated on Sunday with the Masses of Thanksgiving for the new cardinals, in which a large number of the seminarians had the honor to serve at the altar.

On Monday, February 20th, Cardinal O’Brien’s pilgrimage group celebrated a Mass of Farewell at the College in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. In his homily, Cardinal O’Brien meditated on Mary’s role and significance in the events of the past week. He referred to a homily given

by Pope Benedict XVI during the consistory of 2006, in which the Holy Father insightfully observed that the “Petrine principle” of the Church, represented both by the consistory itself and by the Pope’s ministry as the succes-

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Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Fron left, Rev. Msgr. James Checchio ‘92, C‘97, Rector of the College, Rev. Msgr. Francis McRae, spiritual director, and Rev. Msgr. Francis Kelly ‘64, C‘02, Superior of the Casa Santa Maria, join in the joyful celebrations of the consistory in Saint Peter’s Basilica.

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Christopher Kerzich ‘15 (Chicago)

Cardinal O’Brien, accompanied by his priest secretary, Rev. Msgr.

Adam Parker ‘00, join all of the new cardinals in solemn procession in Saint Peter’s Basilica.

L’Osservatore Romano

Cardinal Dolan introduces his mother, Mrs. Shirley Dolan, to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. On the right is Mrs. Vincenza Mustaciuolo, mother of Rev. Msgr. Gregory Mustaciuolo, former secretary to Cardinal Dolan’s predecessors, John Cardinal O’Connor and Edward Cardinal Egan ‘58, C‘65.

Congratulations,Reverend Joseph Betschart T

he Pontifical North American College extends heartfelt congratulations to Reverend Joseph Betschart ‘99 of the Archdiocese of Portland upon his appointment as Rector of Mount Angel Seminary, effective July 1, 2012.

Since 2007, Father Betschart has served as Academic Dean of the College, as well as a formation advisor. For three years, Father Betschart also taught a yearly seminar for first-year College seminarians who attend the Pontifical Gregorian University. He himself attended the Gregorian as a seminarian, and from this university received a Bachelors in Sacred Theology, and later a License in Sacred Theology in the field of Dogmatic Theology. Currently, he is completing a Doctorate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

The College has been blessed to have in Father Betschart a humble, sincere, and holy priest as one of Her faculty members. His generous service and priestly presence will be greatly missed. We assure Father Betschart of our prayers for him in his new ministry.

Tanti Auguri, and Ad Multos Annos!

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Rev. Joseph Betschart ‘99, Academic Dean of the College.

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First Cycle Focus: STB Programs

by David Rider ‘14, Archdiocese of New York

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lessed Pope John Paul II, in speaking of the training of seminarians, once wrote: “Through study, especially the study of theology, the future priest assents to the word of God, grows in his spiritual life and prepares himself to fulfill his pastoral ministry” (Pastores Dabo Vobis, 51). Along with the spiritual, human, and pastoral formation that future priests receive, intellectual formation comprises one of the four so-called “pillars” of priestly formation. At the North American College, men studying for pastoral ministry in the Church undergo rigorous academic training in order to effectively preach the Gospel in their home dioceses.

The heart of this intellectual formation is the study of sacred theology. After studying and receiving a bachelors degree in philosophy in their home countries, the men who arrive

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

From left, David Rider ‘14 (New York) and Jared Twenty ‘14 (Rockford) discuss their academic work in the newly renovated lecture halls at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

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Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

From left, Sheldon Momaney ‘14 (Burlington), Taylor Reynolds ‘14 (Alexandria), Paul Buchanan ‘14 (Charlotte) and Christian Irdi ‘14 (Perth) spend a moment between classes discussing one of their theology texts in the corridor at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross.

at the North American College begin a three-year program of theological studies. This phase of their training is known as First Cycle, and consists of a systematic overview of the major branches of Catholic theology. Classes deal with such important topics as Sacred Scripture, Christology, the Trinity, Moral Theology, and Canon Law. The format of the lessons is generally lecture-based, though all students also take several small group, discussion-based seminars during these three years. The universities here are accredited directly by the Holy See, and so the degrees offered are not strictly comparable to the civil degrees received in the United States. At the end of First Cycle, the student receives a Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology, known as the STB. The opportunity to study in Rome provides the men of the North American College with the chance to receive a

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also enrolled in Third Cycle. During these studies, they work towards a Doctorate in either Sacred Theology or Canon Law, known respectively as the STD or JCD. Whether priests, or future priests, and regardless of the level of studies and nature of the specific program, the common goal of all students of theology is to attain a deeper knowledge of God and His self-revelation, so as to better preach the Gospel of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

The central cloister of the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas provides for its students a quiet atmosphere conducive to study.

theological education at some of the finest Catholic universities in the world. At the present time, seminarians at the College may earn their STB at one of three pontifical universities. The Pontifical Gregorian University, where 106 seminarians are currently enrolled in the First Cycle program, is run by the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits). The Pontifical University of Saint Thomas, otherwise known as the Angelicum, is run by the Order of Preachers (the Dominicans), and currently has 50 seminarians of the College studying for the STB. Another 25 seminarians study at the most recently opened of the three schools, the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, run by the personal prelature of Opus Dei. Classes at the Santa Croce and the Gregorian are taught in Italian, whereas the Angelicum offers its First Cycle courses in English.

After completing First Cycle, many men at the North American College continue on to specialize in one particular area of theology. This part of a seminarian’s training, which usually lasts an additional two years, is called Second Cycle, and culminates in the reception of a License in either Sacred Theology or Canon Law. These degrees are known respectively by their Latin initials as the STL or JCL, and are the basic degrees required for one to teach. At the Casa Santa Maria, the North American College’s house for priests undertaking graduate studies, a number of men are

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

A mosaic, depicting the seal of the university, is displayed at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas, commonly known as the “Angelicum.”

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Walking with Saints: Lenten Station Church Pilgrimage

by Rev. Ronald Check C‘12, Archdiocese of Philadelphia

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n his 2012 Lenten Message, our Holy Father spoke about the season of Lent as a time of “walking together in holiness.” These words come alive in a unique way for the seminarians and priests of the North American College and the Casa Santa Maria during Lent. Each morning, the men depart from our two houses on a little pilgrimage and meet at various churches throughout the city, where we offer the Holy Mass. This most ancient custom, referred to as the ‘Station Churches,’ continues in our day, at least for the English-speaking pilgrims, because of the work of the College community. This tradition, according to various sources, has roots as far back as the late second and early third centuries, when the pope would go out and offer Mass in different Churches that housed the relics of the early Roman martyrs.

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Rev. Msgr. James Checchio, ‘92 C‘97, Rector, celebrates Mass on Ash Wednesday in the Basilica of Santa Sabina on the Aventine Hill. This Basilica is the traditional Station for Ash Wednesday, and marks the beginning of the Lenten Station Church Pilgrimage.

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Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

A group of seminarians make their way through the darkness and brisk air of early dawn to attend Mass at the day’s Station Church.

When Mass was offered in these most ancient and significant churches, the doctrine of the Communion of the Saints was expressed in a most profound way. The daily pilgrimage to each church allowed us, in a sense, to walk together in holiness with all the saints who have gone before us. At the sites where these churches now stand, many saints labored and suffered for the Lord, and with their lives gave that “renewed witness of love and fidelity to the Lord” that the world of today, the Holy Father noted, demands of Christians. In every age, God calls men and women to respond to Him with generous hearts. The saints of old answered this call, and in our own time we, too, were inspired by their examples to become faithful witnesses to Christ ourselves. In visiting these sites that were so important to so many saints, we faithfully continued the traditions of the past, and gave witness to the beauty of a holy Christian life.

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As we walked through Rome early each morning together with the Lord and his saints in prayerful silence, often with rosaries in hand, we gave testimony to the world of the goodness and beauty of holiness. Celebrating the Holy Mass in these ancient places, we gave witness not only of the transcendence of the Holy Sacrifice, but also of the Church’s eager concern to provide, in every place and in every generation, saints who will invite others to follow Christ along the way of holiness.

After celebrating the liturgy together in the Station Church, the joyful and fraternal aspect of the pilgrimage also becomes manifest, as many of the seminarians continued walking together to make their ways to the Casa Santa Maria for breakfast. Having walked, prayed, and broken bread together, they then parted ways as they headed to the different universities for the day’s classes.

Charles Samson ‘13 (St. Louis)

Rev. Ronald Check C‘12 (Philadelphia) organized the Station Church Pilgrimage for the English-speaking community in Rome this year.

The Station Church Pilgrimage is one of the things that make Lent in Rome a particularly blessed time. We pray that this experience will draw us closer to Christ and to the saints, so that we may give glory to Him and give that witness of love and of fidelity to the Lord that the world needs so desperately.

Embracing the Cross: Lenten Day of Recollection

by Alex Kreidler ‘15, Diocese of Kansas City-Saint Joseph The season of Lent is a time of increased prayer and penance in preparation for the great solemnity of Easter. In order to enter this season more faithfully as a seminary community, we at the North American College were once again privileged to have our annual Lenten Day of Recollection. This year’s speaker was Reverend Edward Lohse C‘02 (Erie), an official in the Congregation for Clergy, and a new adjunct Spiritual Director at the College.

and seminarians. Noting that the Lord’s command to Saint Peter: “Come, follow me,” is repeated to each one of us, Father Lohse highlighted how this command, though filled with sweetness, will likewise bring its share of hardships. Being faithful to this command, he continued, is the way of true discipleship, and should be embraced with courage and a steadfast trust in the Lord’s goodness and mercy.

Father Lohse’s reflections focused on the person of Saint Peter. He spoke of how the Prince of the Apostles is a model for all Christians, and especially priests

This Lent, we undertook to carry our crosses every day so that, with Saint Peter, we might say to the Risen Christ: “Lord, you know all things. You know that I love you.”

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Life at the College

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Above Left: The Most Rev. Clarence Silva, Bishop of Hono­ lulu, stands with artist Dale Zarrella after blessing the statue of Saint Damien of Molokai that Mr. Zarrella designed and presented as a gift to the College. Above Right: A beautiful wood statue of Saint Joseph and the Infant Jesus, hand-carved in the north of Italy, was recently blessed, and now stands in the front of the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. Left: A paten inscribed with the motto of the Pontifical North American College: Firmum Est Cor Meum, or “Steadfast Is My Heart.” Right:

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Louise and Robert Parsley of the Strake Foundation in Houston enjoy the College grounds with Deacon Luke Millete ‘12 (Galveston-Houston) (left), and Rev. Msgr. James Checchio ‘92 C‘97, Rector, during Holy Week. Below Left: Rev. Brendan ­Hurley, S.J., a full-time Spiritual Director at the College, serves as a waiter on Holy Thursday along with the rest of the College faculty. Below Right: Matthew Stehling ‘13 (Tyler) and Austin Gilstrap ‘15 (Nashville) prepare a meal on the College’s fifth floor terrace outside of the Miriam and James Mulva Student Kitchen.

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

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The Pontifical North American College M agazine

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Michael Conway ‘14 (Pittsburgh)

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Above Left: Rev. Mr. James Mangan ‘12 (Lansing), flanked by candle-bearer Mark Rainville ‘13 (Worcester), processes with the crucifix at the beginning of the Good Friday liturgy in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.

Above Right: The Honorable Miguel Diaz, Ambassador of the United States to the Holy See, speaks in the Corso Auditorium during a conference sponsored by the United States Embassy. Entitled “Building Bridges of Opportunity: Migration and Diversity,” the conference

Garrett Nelson ‘13 (Great Falls-Billings)

was attended by many diplomatic and Church leaders, including His Eminence Gianfranco Cardinal Ravasi.

Left: From left, Jack Schrader ‘15 (Fall River), Matthew Baldwin ‘14 (Melbourne) and Fernando Camou ‘15 (Phoenix) enjoy a laugh in the warm Roman sun. Right: Members of the Archdiocese of Omaha enjoy the view from the sixth floor terrace during their bishops’ Ad Limina visits.

From front left, The Most Rev. Elden Curtiss, Archbishop Emeritus of Omaha, Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City) and The Most Rev. George Lucas, Archbishop of Omaha. From back left, Matthew Niggemeyer ‘15, Rev. Msgr. J­ oseph Hanefeldt ‘84, Director of Spiritual Formation of the College, Rev. Rheo Ofalsa ‘11, and John Norman ‘12. Middle Left: Aaron Nett ‘14 (Saint Cloud) lights the Paschal candle in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.

In attendance at the College’s Holy Week liturgies were Mark and Elizabeth Steigerwald of the Cathedral Candle Company, which generously donates the Paschal candle for both the College and the Casa Santa Maria. Middle Right: A group of seminarians battle it out on the court during the “Hall Ball” tournament, an annual inter-hall basketball competition. Bottom Right: Noted author, theologian, and apologist Dr. Scott Hahn delivers an inspiring lecture on the Eucharist and the New Evangelization in the Corso Auditorium.

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Michael Conway ‘14 (Pittsburgh)

Spring 2 0 1 2

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“He is Truly Risen!”

Holy Week at the College

by Matthew Dalrymple ‘14, Archdiocese of Atlanta

E

very other year, the North American College holds the sacred liturgies of Holy Week, from Passion Sunday through the Easter Vigil, “in-house,” meaning that we attend the ceremonies in our own Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. This year was one of those years, and was for many of us the first time that we have celebrated Easter together as members of a seminary community.

On Palm Sunday, holding olive branches, we marched into the mystical Jerusalem at Mass, celebrated by the Most Reverend ­Joseph Augustine DiNoia, O.P., Secretary for the Congregation of Divine Worship and the Discipline of Sacraments. Over the next few days, the College gathered together for daily Mass, the Divine Office, and the rosary. The Choir, the liturgical Masters of Ceremonies, and the sacristans were busy with daily practices, preparations, and rehearsals, all the while preparing interiorly to greet the Risen Lord at Easter.

As an assistant Master of Ceremonies, I am actively involved in how the acolytes serve Mass. This work is directly forming me to become, one day, an alter Christus—another Christ—serving at the altar. At the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, celebrated by the Rector,

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

His Eminence Raymond Cardinal Burke, ‘75, C‘84, holds a candle representing the light of Christ as he celebrates the Solemn Easter Vigil in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. He is flanked (from left) by deacons Andrew Young ‘12 (Sioux Falls) and Donald Anstoetter ‘12 (Saint Louis).

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Michael Conway ‘14 (Pittsburgh)

Archbishop J. Augustine DiNoia, O.P., Secretary of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, blesses the palms and sprinkles all present with holy water in the courtyard in front of the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at the beginning of the Palm Sunday Liturgy.

Reverend Monsignor James Checchio ‘92, C‘97, I helped guide the servers and the twelve student-priests who were to have their feet washed. I remember thinking that, one day, I might also direct the ministers and servers for my own parish’s Sacred Triduum. Such hands-on-training was a real opportunity for all of us to serve each other as brothers, and I know that Christ’s priesthood will also demand from us long hours of behind-the-scenes work so that others may worship God in a dignified and reverent way.

His Eminence Raymond Cardinal Burke ‘75, C‘84, Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura, presided over the Easter Vigil, in which we symbolically kept watch with all creation and awaited the Resurrection of Christ. After the triumphant cry of “Alleluia” rang out, we renewed with one voice our baptismal promises, renouncing Satan and professing faith in our Lord. As a convert, this is always for me a powerful moment, as it reminds me of my first profession of the Catholic and Apostolic Faith.

In his homily, Cardinal Burke said the early Christians greeted each other during the Easter season by saying “Christ is risen!”

He is truly risen!

The Pontifical North American College M agazine

The Humble Pastor: Pilgrimage to Ars

by Rev. Mr. Jadyn Nelson ‘12, Diocese of Bismarck

A

s the bus brought us within view of Ars, France, the reason for our pilgrimage appeared before my mind’s eye. A simple process of elimination was at work. Here in Ars, there are no points of interest typical to a traveler’s itinerary: no bustling market-square to be found, no awe-inspiring architectural feats, no art galleries, theaters, or orchestras—not even a fine French vineyard. No, I suspect one traveling in France does not find his way to Ars unless he has heard of their priest.

In 1818, the Church in France was reeling. The devastating effects of the French Revolution had severely thinned the numbers of priests. The lay faithful were not, in many places, fervent and well formed in the practice of the Catholic faith.

Such was the case in Ars when its new Curé, Saint John ­Marie Vianney, arrived to take over as pastor. Who would have guessed, upon his arrival, that over the next forty years, this tiny farming community would become the destination of over 100,000 penitents and pilgrims? Who would have guessed that the priest who appeared as barely competent to many of his peers would become the model of the care of souls? Yet, the grace bestowed through the words and hands of Saint John Vianney did all of this, and so much more. The Curé of Ars

Charles Samson ‘13 (St. Louis)

Thirty-six members of the Pontifical North American College community enjoyed a week of prayer in Ars during the Easter Week retreat. almost single-handedly re-cultivated the devastated vineyard of the Lord in France; his principal tools were the Holy Mass and the confessional.

Next to Christ himself, this Curé is our principal model of priestly charity. It is for this one reason that we thirty-five seminarians came to Ars—to visit the proving ground and resting place of the patron saint of priests. He came alive to us while in Ars and, with him, so also the priesthood to which we aspire.

What a great inspiration it was for us to get to know the holy Curé in his own surroundings!

By his humility, his own soul remained uncorrupted by the incredible fame that came to be associated with him. It was through his humility that so many of his skeptics and detractors became his greatest devotees. Humility, too, marked the approach he took to rooting out sin in his parish; it became a central theme in his homilies.

Charles Samson ‘13 (St. Louis)

Rev. Gerald Vincke (Lansing), assisted by Rev. Mr. Jadyn Nelson ‘12 (Bismarck), celebrates Mass at the tomb of Saint John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests.

Perhaps he learned this virtue from his confirmation saint, John the Baptist, whose words about Christ ought to be the motto not only for the Holy Curé of Ars, but also of all of us who will be ordained: “He must increase, and I must decrease.”

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College Theater: Back on Stage

by Mark Baumgarten ‘14, Archdiocese of Melbourne

I

n the late 1990’s, the North American College’s Corso Auditorium became known for hosting a theatrical production for the public each spring, featuring shows as diverse as Godspell, 1776, and Stalag 17. This tradition eventually fell by the wayside, but this year—under the direction of seminarian Alan Guanella ‘13 (La Crosse) and moderated by Reverend Jeffrey Burrill ‘98 (La Crosse)—the tradition of a spring play at the College was boldly brought back to life.

The play chosen for this comeback performance was Aaron Sorkin’s A Few Good Men (upon which the 1992 film was based). Such a dialogue-heavy script could have proved a daunting prospect for some, but a stout-hearted team of actors signed up for the roles and began working on their lines in the closing weeks of 2011. Of note was the resolute effort put in by the major actors to memorize their many pages of dialogue: Rev. Mr. Jason Adams ‘12 (Savannah) as LTJG ­Daniel ­Kaffee; Rev. Mr. Andrew Young ‘12 (Sioux Falls) as LCDR ­Joseph ­Galloway; Conor Steadman ‘15 (Perth) as LTJG Sam Weinberg; and William Appel ‘14 (­Covington) as LtCol ­Nathan Jessep.

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

The cast and crew of the College’s performance of A Few Good Men are applauded after the play’s premiere.

In all, twenty-one actors would take to the stage, and more than twenty off-stage crew, ably led by Stage Manager Daniel McCaughan ‘13 (Sydney), aided in the preparation and execution of the show. A key factor in the authenticity of the production was the use of actual military uniforms, thanks to the generosity of Ben and Diana Newhart and all the members of the United States Navy at Naval Support Activity, Naples.

A fine atmosphere of fraternal camaraderie emerged among all involved as the thorough rehearsals culminated in a lively in-house performance for the College students and faculty members. Then came the big night—Saturday March 24th, 2012—when many guests and friends of the College witnessed her public return to the dramatic arts. The evening not only provided an opportunity for the English-speaking residents of Rome to gather for some quality entertainment, but it may have also offered a slightly different view of the life of a seminarian than the audience had previously seen.

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

Courtroom tensions rise during the heated interchange between (from left) William Appel ‘14 (Covington) and Rev. Mr. Jason Adams ‘12 (Savannah).

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Suffice to say that the performance was well received, and many guests expressed the hope that more productions would follow in the years to come!

The Pontifical North American College M agazine

Exercising Stewardship: ­Student Steering Committees

by Brendan Bartlett ‘13, Diocese of Arlington

I

f you ever find yourself in Rome with a hankering for the comforts of home, I have a secret for you. Discreetly tucked away in a corner on the “-1 Level” of the North American College lies our version of a familiar convenience store, which we call “KNAC” (a witty amalgamation of K-Mart and NAC). There, students and faculty can purchase anything from toiletries to Lucky Charms. This is one of two student stores run by the Student Activities Committee, or STUAC; the other store is the Student Lounge, which opens every day after lunch and dinner, and serves a wide variety of snacks, beverages, and ice cream. STUAC uses the profits from these stores to provide a variety of services for the student body.

The steering committee of STUAC, which meets monthly, consists of an elected chairman, known colloquially as “King STUAC” (yours truly), nine other voting members, who are either elected or appointed every formation year, and the Vice-Rector for Administration, the Reverend Monsignor Michael Farmer ‘95, who represents the faculty. STUAC is completely student-run and studentowned, and also has oversight of the Miriam and James Mulva Student Kitchen, the sports facilities, the gym, and the student wood shop. Throughout the course of each year, STUAC sponsors many events to foster a spirit of fraternity and community in the house. These events include intramural tournaments and games,

Michael Conway ‘14 (Pittsburgh)

Brendan Bartlett ‘13 (Arlington), colloquially known as “King-STUAC,” stands behind the counter in the Gregory and Linda Jewell Student Lounge and chats with Rev. Mr. Daniel Weiske ‘12 (Duluth).

Michael Conway ‘14 (Pittsburgh)

Eric Scanlan ‘14 (Venice in Florida) volunteers to help stock shelves in the KNAC student store. movie nights, a beach trip, and certain capital projects to purchase items that the representatives suggest for the good of the student body. We also engage in charitable giving, to share the benefits we have received, and to show gratitude to the Lord for his blessings.

This year we have donated 1,000€ shared among three charities.

Along with STUAC, the College maintains a Pastoral Council which, like its counterpart in your home parish, serves in an advisory capacity to the Rector, the Reverend Monsignor James Checchio ‘92, C‘97, who is the ‘pastor’ of our community. Similar to STUAC, the Pastoral Council meets monthly and consists of elected and appointed members from each class, serving as the main point of contact between the student body and the rector. Various issues that concern life in the house are brought up, debated, and then given to the rector for a final decision. Committee members then present to the council reports about the life and doings of the community.

With close to 300 residents here at the College, it is important that we have these governing bodies to ensure proper communication, service, and good stewardship. Participation in these committees allows the men of the College both to serve the community and to gain valuable experience for their future ministry to the people of God in their respective dioceses.

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“The Enduring Gift of the College”: An Alumnus Reflects after a Year in Ministry

by Rev. John Burns ‘10, Archdiocese of Milwaukee

P

eople constantly ask me if I miss Rome. “You know,” I always answer, “a little bit. More than anything, I miss the men of the College.”

By far one of the great gifts of my life was the chance to spend five years on the Hill, in that house filled with men who inspired me, encouraged me, challenged me, and called me to the pursuit of holiness.

Looking back, I learned a lot in seminary. Since finishing, my studies have been put to constant work. Formation workshops and the preaching practica were a great head start on what may well be a never-ending learning curve. The rhythm of life at the College taught me that I could survive almost anything if I kept humble and remembered to laugh a lot.

Life in Rome taught me all about history, pasta, and the art of pedestrian self-preservation, and living so close to the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter and the Vatican taught me just how beautiful is Christ’s Bride, the Church.

Now, I am finally doing what I spent all those years getting ready to do. Parish ministry has truly been graced, and since

Cindi Joyce

Rev. John Burns ‘10 baptizes the newest member of the Joyce family at Christ King Parish in Wauwatosa, WI.

returning to America, I have felt extremely well-prepared.

However, nothing was quite enough to prepare me for how truly awesome it is to be a priest.

Despite all the imagining a seminarian can do, I simply could not have anticipated how powerful and humbling it is to sit front-row to the miracles that God works in the human heart. You just cannot pre-learn what it is like to be a herald of God’s grace; all you can do is learn to be vulnerable before the Lord, and to surrender to Him in loving trust.

In the end, what really prepared me for the adventure of the priesthood was the journey of faith that I undertook with my brothers at the College. Far more important than anything else I learned in Rome was a very simple set of lessons: I am deeply loved by God; I am radically dependent on Him; and, left to myself, I will just get in His way.

Stephanie Niederjohn

Rev. John Burns ‘10 helps teach a religion lesson to the middle school students at Christ King Parish School.

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Without my brothers, I would not have made it through. Because of them, I am the priest that I am. And it is a joy to know that, for the rest of my life, these are the men who will always be there to help me be the man God asks me to be.

Above all else, that is the enduring gift of the College!

The Pontifical North American College M agazine

Gratitude for a Sabbatical in Rome

by Rev. Daniel Kirby, ICTE, S‘12, Diocese of Des Moines

“T

hanks be to God,” is a phrase that is used by Saint Paul six times in the corpus of his writings in the New Testament. These words of the Apostle to the Gentiles strike a chord within me as I reflect on my experience at the Institute for Continuing Theological Education this spring in Rome.

Yes, “Thanks be to God,” for the privilege of studying under some outstanding professors of theology and Sacred Scripture. What a great opportunity we had to learn more about the beauty of our faith and to be strengthened by the wisdom of the Church!

Yes, “Thanks be to God,” for being able to celebrate Mass at the tombs of the Apostles Peter and Paul, and for being able to celebrate the Eucharist in the great basilicas of Rome, and in the Lenten Station Churches as well.

Yes, “Thanks be to God,” for being able to pray with our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, during Holy Week.

What a blessing!

Charles Samson ‘13 (St. Louis)

The priests of the Spring 2012 ICTE program gather in the sacristy of Saint Peter’s Basilica after celebrating Mass together near Saint Peter’s tomb. They are joined by program director, Rev. Msgr. Anthony Figueiredo, and Rev. Msgr. Roger Roensch ‘57 (right foreground—left to right).

Yes, “Thanks be to God,” for experiencing the universality of the Church. There are so many different cultures and languages, yet all are united in the one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church.

Yes, “Thanks be to God,” for the privilege of getting to know 28 priests from four countries (the United States, Canada, England and Australia). We prayed together. We learned together. We helped one another and renewed our priesthood together.

And, finally, “Thanks be to God,” for Reverend Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo, Reverend Monsignor Roger Roensch ‘58, Reverend Monsignor James Checchio ‘92, C‘97, and all the staff that has made this sabbatical a time of grace. The accommodations and the hospitality of the seminary community were outstanding.

The priests of the Spring 2012 ICTE program celebrated Mass together at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran during their time in Rome.

Saint Paul’s phrase truly resonates with me, because my experience at the Institute for Continuing Theological Education at the North American College in Rome leaves me with only one thing to say: “Thanks be to God!” Spring 2 0 1 2

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Providing the Sacraments: Priestly Ministry at the Casa Santa Maria

by Rev. Thomas Kunz ‘04, C‘12, Diocese of Pittsburgh

O

n May 20th, 2005, I received a call from the diocesan director of clergy. He gave me my first assignment as a parochial vicar: I was to go to Saint Margaret of Scotland Parish just outside of the city of Pittsburgh. I could not wait! I had prepared so long to receive this call.

After a few weeks of day-dreaming about parish life, making it through the comprehensive exam for my License in Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University, and saying goodbye to all of the good friends I made at the North American College, I was ready for parish life.

During my time at Saint Margaret’s, I met many wonderful people and really had a profound sense of joy in bringing them the sacraments and walking with them on their spiritual journey. When I received some years later my next assignment—to the Casa Santa Maria for canon law studies at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas—I, selfishly, was sad to leave the parish. While returning to Rome was

an exciting opportunity, I knew that I would miss life in the parish, especially the ministry of bringing the sacraments to God’s people.

However, in His goodness, the Lord has provided for me much opportunity to minister to his people here in Rome.

For example, I have had the opportunity to celebrate Mass for the Catholic community at the United States Army post of Camp Darby near Pisa. What a great experience it is to be able to celebrate Mass for other Americans who are serving their country away from home!

Also, like many of the other priests here at the Casa Santa Maria, I am able to celebrate Mass with the numerous communities of women religious in Rome. In those early morning hours, I get to pray with these women who come from such diverse countries, even from areas of the world where the faith is openly persecuted, and who now are here giving their entire lives to Christ. How amazing it is to see such a vibrant witness to the faith!

Finally, among many other areas of sacramental ministry, I have the opportunity to hear the confessions of American visitors to Rome at the Visitor’s Office for U.S. Pilgrims to the Holy See, which is located here at the Casa Santa Maria.

On Tuesday afternoon, American pilgrims come to the Casa Santa Maria in order to receive papal audience tickets, and the Alma Sisters of Mercy have arranged for the pilgrims to be able to go to confession with the priests of our house in order to receive a plenary indulgence at the papal audience they will attend.

Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City)

Rev. Thomas Kunz ‘04 (Pittsburgh) recently returned to Rome to work on a canon law degree at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas.

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While academics is the main focus of a priest’s assignment at the Casa Santa Maria, the Lord still provides ample opportunity for us to be involved in providing the sacraments to His faithful.

The Pontifical North American College M agazine

Economo’s Corner Rev. Msgr. Michael Farmer ‘95 Archdiocese of Mobile Vice-Rector for Administration

“There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

A

fter an overall mild winter—save two consecutive, snowy weekends in February—springtime is here in Rome as we enjoy the spiritual gift of the Easter season. This is also the season in which we begin preparing for the next fiscal year by establishing the annual budget. Indeed, it has been a great year at the College, with increased enrollment of seminarians from across the United States, Canada, and Australia, as well as the blessing of generous and dedicated benefactors to the College—all of which taking place amid trying economic times and an uncertain exchange rate.

This year, we continued to provide excellent programs of formation, priestly studies, and continuing education at the seminary, Casa Santa Maria, and the Institute for Continuing Theological Education. In the last few months, we were able to complete projects that insure the physical integrity of our campus and provide an environment of study, prayer and relaxation for our seminarians, student priests and priests on sabbatical: from the painting of stairwells at the College, to constructing new parapets on the balconies, installing new insulated windows in the Randel Reide Library lobby entrance, re-stuccoing the exterior of the Corso Auditorium, and even making general repairs at the Casa Santa Maria following the extraordinary snow. Some of the projects are a continuation of the Vision for the Future Capital Campaign, others part of this year’s budget, and still others are Brian Buettner ‘13 (Oklahoma City) made possible through the special gifts of benefactors and friends of the College. At the Casa Santa Maria, the student priest TV Lounge was refurbished with new carpet, His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan ‘76, lounge chairs, tables, refreshment cabinet, and light fixtures through the generosity of Archbishop of New York, shares a laugh with Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel Ferrucci. Known as the Saint Joseph Room, this lounge is truly the staff of the North American College during the consistory weekend. a place for the community to gather and enjoy an atmosphere of relaxation and repose from the daily studies.

Christopher Brashears ‘14 (Oklahoma City)

The newly-refurbished Saint Joseph Room lounge at the Casa Santa Maria will provide the student priests there a place to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

All of this work is carried out by a variety of contractors, and also by many of the dedicated employees of the North American College. In February, many visitors from the United States experienced this dedication to hospitality on the part of our employees and students when over 1,000 people attended the Consistory reception for Timothy Cardinal Dolan ‘76, and Edwin Cardinal O’Brien C‘76. It was a great day for so many people to visit and experience the North American College for the first time and on the occasion to honor two new cardinals who, as former rectors, were committed to preserving and enhancing the College as a place of formation for men preparing for the priesthood.

As we prepare next year’s budget, it is always good to remember the blessings of the past year and be renewed in diligence not only to preserve, but also to enhance, the College as a place that offers excellent priestly formation. Thank you for helping us to prepare holy and dedicated priests for service in the Catholic Church.

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The Pontifical

North American College 3211 Fourth Street, NE

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Washington, D.C. 20017-1194 For more information about the North American College, or to learn about opportunities for memorial gifts, contact Andrea Briones at our Washington, D.C., Office of Institutional Advancement:

Tel: (202) 541-5411 / Fax: (202) 722-8804 Email: nac@usccb.org or visit our website at www.pnac.org

Join us!

© 2012 R2 Productions, LLC

For the 123rd Annual Meeting of the Alumni Association to be hosted by

The Most Reverend William E. Lori, Archbishop of Baltimore, His Eminence Edwin Cardinal O’Brien C‘76, and the Alumni of the Archdiocese of Baltimore at the Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards Tuesday, June 19th to Thursday, June 21st 2012 For reservations, please call 800-266-9432.

For more information, please contact Rev. Joseph Barr at 410-427-4700.