ON THE HILL
Contents
FEATURES
Monks’ Personals
Monastery News
Graduation
Polarization Conference Recap
Student Profile
Saint Meinrad Brand Refresh
ALUMNI
Alumni Reunion
Distinguished Alumnus
Alumni Outreach
On the Hill is published three times a year by Saint Meinrad Archabbey and Seminary & School of Theology. The newsletter is also available online at: www.saintmeinrad.edu/onthehill.
Editor: Krista Hall
Send changes of address and comments to:
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The Editor, The Development Office, Saint Meinrad Archabbey and Seminary & School of Theology, 200 Hill Drive, St. Meinrad, IN 47577, 812-357-6501 • Fax 812-357-6759, news@saintmeinrad.edu www.saintmeinrad.edu, © 2026, Saint Meinrad Archabbey
Monks’ Personals
Fr. Bede Cisco attended the All-Class Reunion of his grade school, St. Therese Little Flower Catholic School in Indianapolis. The parish was celebrating its 100th anniversary, and Fr. Bede’s class marked the 60th anniversary of their graduation.
Fr. Adrian Burke directed retreats for the men of St. Matthew Parish in Indianapolis, IN, and the annual Saint Xavier High School (Louisville, KY) alumni retreat at Saint Meinrad in February. In March, he facilitated a day of recollection for Saint Xavier High School alumni in Louisville. In May, he will present talks on the topic of Easter for a men’s group from St. Patrick Parish (Kokomo, IN) and present a weekend retreat for St. Thomas More Parish (Chapel Hill, NC).
Br. John Glasenapp offered a colloquium to the Sacred Music program at the University of Notre
COVER PHOTO : TIMOTHY KHUISHING, SAMUEL HANSEN, AND KHAING THU EXIT THE ARCHABBEY CHURCH WITH ARCHBISHOP CHARLES THOMPSON AFTER THE DEACON ORDINATION ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2025.
FIND MORE PHOTOS AT SAINT-MEINRAD.SMUGMUG.COM.
Dame on November 7, entitled “Affectivity and Drama in Liturgical Plainsong.” His article “Sleigh Ride to Bethlehem” appeared in the special Christmas edition of The Tablet
Br. James Jensen and Br. Joel Blaize attended the Young Catholic Professionals Conference on April 1012, in Dallas, TX.
Br. Martin Erspamer has been commissioned to design stained glass windows for St. Pius X in Owensboro, KY, St. Anselm Parish in St. Louis, MO, and the Jesuit community at Saint Louis University, MO.
Fr. Lorenzo Penalosa presented a paper at the North American Academy of Liturgy (NAAL) meeting in Atlanta, GA, on January 3. He was also inducted as a member of the Academy on January 4.
Br. Francis de Sales Wagner launched a new blog titled Monkly Musings, available at monklymusings.blogspot.com.
Fr. Mateo Zamora directed the permanent deacon convocation for the Diocese of Peoria on March 7 at the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception in Peoria, IL.
Fr. Simon Herrmann traveled to Togo, Africa, for the ordination of his seminary classmate, Fr. Justin Ayanou, who is a monk of Abbaye de l'Ascension. The ordination was on January 24, 2026.
Fr. Julian Peters presented a priest’s workshop titled “Living the Paschal Mystery in Parish Reorganization” for the Diocese of London, Ontario, Canada, October 20-22. He also directed a priest retreat for the Archdiocese of Detroit, MI, November 3-7.
FATHER GERMAIN SWISSHELM, OSB
Father
Germain Swisshelm, OSB, a monk of Saint Meinrad Archabbey, died Saturday, January 24, 2026.
Fr. Germain was 91, in the 68th year of his monastic profession and the 65th year of priesthood.
He was born in Orrville, Ohio, on April 6, 1934, to Paul G. and Ethel (Pinnicks) Swisshelm and was named William Oliver at his baptism.
He earned bachelor’s degrees in philosophy and history at Saint Meinrad in 1956 and pursued graduate studies at Indiana University, the University of Oklahoma, and the University of San Marcos in Lima, Peru. He was invested as a novice on August 14, 1956, professed his simple vows on August 15, 1957, and professed his solemn vows on that day in 1960. He was ordained to the priesthood on September 25, 1960.
Fr. Germain taught at Saint Meinrad’s St. Placid Hall (1960-62) and, in 1962,
Servant, Teacher, Carpenter
was a founding member of Saint Meinrad’s mission, Los Pinos, in Huaraz, Peru. He taught at the seminary and high school in Huaraz, served as associate pastor at San Juan de Lurigancho Parish in Lima, and was prior of Los Pinos for four years.
While in Peru, he studied Quechua and founded Estudios Culturales Benedictinos, producing a QuechuaSpanish dictionary and a nine-volume New Testament manuscript in Quechua.
Returning to Saint Meinrad in 1979, he worked in the Carpenter Shop and provided Mass assistance at Monte Cassino Shrine. He also served as Mass secretary, coordinator of liturgical readings, and custodian of Mass intentions. He was involved in our outreach in Spanish ministry.
Father Germain was by all counts a master carpenter, and there is an abundance of evidence of his skill in every building on our Hill. His frames (with your choice of wood) enhanced the beauty of countless photographs and artistic renderings. Many monks and students benefited from the simple but eminently functional lectern he designed and constructed with the explicit wish, as he advertised it, to assist his confreres in staying awake during their morning or afternoon
lectio. His lecterns witnessed both his skill as a carpenter and his deep love for the Scriptures and the saints in our tradition.
Father Germain was not much one for small talk. He read constantly, had an excellent memory, and many interests. He enjoyed sitting with a group of confreres, listening carefully but saying little. When one in the group would pose a question, the answer to which would seem to require specialized knowledge and perhaps a reference book, Father Germain would answer thoroughly and clearly.
The Office of the Dead was prayed on Wednesday, January 28, in the Archabbey Church, and the Funeral Liturgy was celebrated on Thursday, January 29.
Prayer and Work Intertwined
“The Benedictine motto is prayer and work, and rather than thinking of those two things as separate, how can we do both simultaneously?” asks Br. Jean Fish, OSB. For Br. Jean, the answer is found in the steady rhythm of weaving.
Br. Jean has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and specialized in sculpture. His journey into weaving began with a basket-weaving workshop he took at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. His art is adapted from an ancient practice of twined basket weaving from the Neolithic period, using jute cord and various yarns like wool, alpaca, and cotton.
The ideas of discovery, peace, and spirituality attracted Br. Jean to the art of weaving. He incorporates lectio divina and reflection on the Psalms while weaving. For him, the art of creation is itself a form of prayer. When he holds someone in mind while working on a piece, it becomes a way of praying for that person and a representation of what they mean to him and of his appreciation for them.
Weaving offers space for peace and silence. “Silence isn’t the removal of noise,” Br. Jean says, “but finding your place in the noise.” Basket weaving provides the opportunity to sit with one’s own thoughts by setting everything aside and being in the present. Some pieces have helped him work through grief, allowing thoughts
to come and go. Other pieces express gratitude and create a dialogue with creation and nature.
The spirit of discovery continues to guide his work. Br. Jean hopes to create a life-sized figure and to explore new materials, possibly incorporating beading or stones. He has even grown indigo and chamomile to explore natural dyes.
Br. Jean shares his craft through fourday basket-weaving workshops at Saint Meinrad. Participants complete three projects: a one-inch basket, a three-inch basket, and a more complex patterned piece. The progression allows students to learn the fundamentals, reinforce their skills, and then experiment creatively. The small group setting offers a sense of camaraderie that Br. Jean compares to monastic life with the balance of personal prayer time and community prayer.
While each workshop touches on prayer, Br. Jean will be offering a retreat in November titled “Basket Weaving: A Monastic Microcosm” that focuses on the spirituality of weaving.
In weaving, as in monastic life, prayer and work are beautifully intertwined.
For more information on basket weaving workshops, visit: saintmeinrad.org/visit-us/artworkshops.
Douglas Allison professes temporary vows
On January 20, 2026, Novice Douglas Allison professed temporary vows at Saint Meinrad Archabbey and received the religious name Brother Evagrius.
A 25-year-old native of Perrysburg, Ohio, Brother Evagrius graduated in 2023 from Bowling Green State University
with a degree in accounting and finance. After college, he found himself discerning his next step. The balance of prayer and work found in The Rule of St. Benedict drew him to monastic life. Visits to Saint Meinrad and conversations with his spiritual director ultimately led him to enter the monastery.
He admits that communal living has been less daunting than he expected, saying, “Knowing that everyone is here to grow in love of God and neighbor makes it simpler.” Cultivating inner silence has been challenging, he
explains, “It is not a skill that is easy to learn, growing up in a fast-paced world.”
Named for Evagrius Ponticus, a desert monk known for his wisdom in battling temptation, Brother Evagrius is drawn to the Benedictine rhythm of prayer and work. In his free time, he enjoys listening to audiobooks and weaving baskets.
Temporary vows, which are usually for three years, mark the next step in discerning whether monastic life is his vocation.
Br. Evagrius Allison, OSB
18 Awarded Master of Divinity Degrees
Graduates of Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology were awarded Master of Divinity degrees at the commencement ceremony in the Archabbey Church on December 5. They now begin the Vocational Synthesis phase of formation in their dioceses.
Those receiving Master of Divinity degrees were:
Deacon Joseph Gaten Armstrong, Diocese of Mobile, AL; Deacon Duwan Booker, Deacon Tuan Do, Deacon Christopher Elser, Deacon Joseph Nguyen, and
Deacon Quinton Thomas, Diocese of Little Rock, AR; Deacon Daniel Cooper, Diocese of Knoxville, TN; John Gardiner, Diocese of Birmingham, AL;
Kristofer Garlitch, Deacon Samuel Hansen, Deacon Timothy Khuishing, and Deacon Khaing Thu, Archdiocese of Indianapolis, IN; Stephen Matthew McClain, and Deacon Adrian Meneses Duarte, Diocese of Tulsa, OK; Deacon Evrard Muhoza, Archdiocese of Louisville, KY; Felix Pesce, Diocese of Memphis, TN;
Deacon Matthew Smyser, Diocese of Lexington, KY; Guillaume Temkkit, Diocese of Manchester, NH.
The mission of Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology is the initial and ongoing formation of priests, permanent deacons, and laity to minister together effectively in the service and evangelization of the Roman Catholic Church and the world.
John Lueken Named Emeritus Member of the Board of Overseers
Mr. John Lueken was named an emeritus member of the Board of Overseers during the October 2025 board meeting. The board advises President-Rector Fr. Denis Robinson, OSB, on matters related to the school’s programs and performance and addresses strategic questions regarding the future of the school. Lueken has served on the board for 18 years, beginning in 2005.
Lueken is an attorney, partner, and chair of the Estate Planning
Department at Dentons Bingham Greenebaum LLP in Louisville, KY. He and his wife, Stacie, are members of Holy Family Parish in New Albany, IN. They reside in Floyd County, IN.
A native of Jasper, IN, he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Evansville in 1985. He received his Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from the University of Louisville in 1992.
Lueken is also a certified public accountant, holds memberships in the American, Kentucky, and Louisville bar associations, and is a fellow in the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel. He is admitted to practice law in Indiana and Kentucky.
Lueken is a member of the Downtown Louisville Rotary Club, Estate Planning Council of Louisville, and the Southern Indiana Estate Planning Council.
Deepening Communion in a Polarized World A CONFERENCE RECAP
Last November 4-6, Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology hosted an important national convocation on the topic of polarization in the life of the Catholic Church. Cosponsored with the Glenmary Home Missioners, this convocation entitled “Deepening Communion in a Polarized World” brought together recognized scholars, members of the Church hierarchy and Catholic media figures from differing perspectives to model healthy discourse, seek common ground, and make recommendations for building unity in a deeply divided Church and world. The 150 conference participants were joined by our seminarians,
seminary faculty and staff, members of the monastic community, and coworkers to gain a greater appreciation for the complexity of issues and need for “crossing over” when addressing matters that often polarize individuals and groups within the Catholic Church.
The convocation opened with a keynote address by the Very Rev. Aaron Wessman, GHM, Saint Meinrad alumnus and author of The Church’s Mission in a Polarized World (2023, New City Press). Four conversations followed on the topics of polarization in the liturgy, in the implementation of Vatican II, in the Catholic hierarchy, and in Catholic media. The impressive
BY BR. JOHN MARK FALKENHAIN, OSB
list of presenters included Cardinal Joseph Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, Archbishop Paul Etienne of Seattle, scholars from several leading Catholic universities, and Catholic journalists from local and national media outlets, including America Media, EWTN, and The Western Kentucky Catholic
This convocation is another excellent example of how, guided by the Benedictine virtues of moderation, hospitality, charity, and humility, Saint Meinrad aspires to create a depolarizing community where all guests are welcomed as Christ and God’s Kingdom on earth is realized a little more each day.
Archabbey Library16th Century Copy of The Rule
A 16th-century copy of The Rule of St. Benedict sits at the entrance of the Saint Meinrad Archabbey Library, serving as a vision of purpose for those who visit and live on the Hill.
This copy of The Rule was acquired in May of 2024, gifted to the monastery and the library by Felicia and John Ferrara.
Dr. Dan Kolb, the library director, states that “By putting The Rule front and center in our library, we hope to make a statement about the purpose of our lives here on the Hill and the basic values by which we live, study, and pray.”
Rule is preceded by a section on the Rites of Monastic Profession and succeeded by Rites for the Bishop’s (or Abbot’s) Observance of the Mass. The book retains its original fine, decorated leather binding.
The quality of the book attests to the fine craftsmanship of the monks working in the Schuttern scriptorium. The Schuttern Abbey scriptorium was renowned and a significant source of income for the monastery. Schuttern Abbey, founded in the 7th century, was the third largest monastery in Germany during the Middle Ages. It was suppressed in 1803 after the Napoleonic Wars.
Events ON THE HILL
MAY
Rosary pilgrimage at Monte Cassino Shrine each Sunday at 2 p.m. Central
MAY 1-3
Guest House Retreat: “Women Carrying the Light of Christ: Past and Present” by Dr. Kimberly Baker (Women’s Retreat)
MAY 9
Graduation for Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology
MAY 13
Graduate Theology Program Open House Online
MAY 15-17
Guest House Retreat: “Being ‘Eucharistic’ People” by Fr. Adrian Burke, OSB
MAY 17-22
The book was produced for Abbot Georg of Schuttern Abbey in 1593. Kolb said, “The book is beautifully made, using fine materials.” The entire Rule is written twice by scribes, once in Latin and then in German. The Latin version is decorated at the beginning of each chapter with the addition of red, blue, and green flourishes. The text of The
Each month a different chapter of The Rule is put on display in the library. Alongside The Rule is a translation of the chapter from the Saint Meinrad translation of The Rule as well as notes on Schuttern Abbey. All are welcome to view The Rule along with many other rare books displayed in the library.
Institute for Sacred Music Workshop: “The Sacred Music of St. Hildegard of Bingen” by Dr. Alison Altstatt, Dr. Rosemary Heredos, and Sr. Jeana Visel, OSB
MAY 22-24
Guest House Retreat: “Healing Loneliness” by Br. Zachary Wilberding, OSB
MAY 27
Guest House Workshop: “Heart on Fire” by Jane Feliz Rush (Women’s Workshop)
JUNE 5-7
Guest House Retreat: “Spirituality of Liturgical Architecture” by Fr. Lorenzo Penalosa, OSB
JULY 10-12
Guest House Retreat: “Doubting Thomas: Keeping Faith in a Secular Age” by Fr. Thomas Gricoski, OSB
For more information, call 812-357-6611 or visit our website www.saintmeinrad.org
Meet THE STUDENT JUAN PASCAL
Diocese: Memphis, TN
Q. WHEN DID YOU BEGIN FORMATION FOR THE DIACONATE ?
I began formation on September 20, 2020.
Q. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A VOCATION TO THE PERMANENT DIACONATE, AND WHO OR WHAT MOST INFLUENCED THAT DECISION?
I wanted to learn more about my Catholic faith to serve better.
Q. WHAT ARE YOU DOING OUTSIDE OF FORMATION (WORK, MINISTRY, FAMILY LIFE, VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES)?
Outside of formation, I enjoy spending time with my family and playing music with my wife for the holy Mass. My wife sings every other Sunday.
Q. FAVORITE SCRIPTURE VERSE AND WHY?
My favorite Scripture verse is John 3:16 because even though we are sinners, God sent us His Son to rescue us.
Q. FAVORITE SAINT AND WHY?
My favorite saint is St. Stephen because I have had many tests in my life.
Q. HOBBIESOR INTERESTS?
My hobbies include reading and playing music. I play guitar and piano, and my wife sings.
Q. WHAT ASPECT OF FORMATION HAS BEEN MOST REWARDING?
I have enjoyed learning about the history of the Church and the sacraments.
Q. WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF FORMATION ?
The most challenging part of formation has been learning philosophy and psychology.
Q. HOW HAS YOUR FORMATION IMPACTED YOUR SPIRITUAL LIFE OR PERSONAL GROWTH?
I have a greater understanding of my faith from the formation I have received.
Parish: St. John the Evangelist
Hometown: Guatemala
Vocation: Permanent Diaconate
...even though we are sinners, God sent us His Son to rescue us. “
Q. WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR YOUR MINISTRY AS A DEACON?
I hope to do God’s will from what I have learned.
Q. BEST ADVICE OR INSIGHT YOU’VE RECEIVED DURING FORMATION?
Serve God with humility and obedience to the bishop.
SAINT MEINRAD UNVEILS REFRESHED LOGO AND BRAND IDENTITY
Saint Meinrad is a place built on tradition, but tradition has never meant standing still. For many years, our familiar logo has served as a steady symbol of our mission, our Benedictine identity, and our commitment to forming the Church’s leaders. But just as physical spaces need maintenance from time to time, a visual identity also needs renewal. After nearly 30 years, it was the tools we use to communicate no longer supported the clarity, consistency, or flexibility we today.
who traveled from Switzerland and founded Saint Meinrad.
In January, Saint Meinrad’s Communications Office released a refreshed logo and brand identity. The update includes the logo, a refined color palette, new fonts, a brand identity guide, and design templates for both print and digital communication. These pieces give us a clearer and more dependable present the mission of Saint Meinrad across many platforms, from newsletters and websites to social media.
“The boat has also been used throughout the ages by saints to represent the Church herself, the fact that the Church is on a journey towards God, and it is directed by individuals who are listening to the voice of God,” says Fr. Kolbe. “The boat is a great image of being on mission, because here at Saint Meinrad, we are still actively working for the world today in caring for the world and sharing the Gospel message.”
While the design has been modernized for readability and flexibility, these symbols ensure that the refreshed look stays rooted in Saint Meinrad’s heritage. Although the visuals have changed, the heart of Saint Meinrad remains the same: a community grounded in prayer, committed to service, and prepared for the years ahead.
The symbols within the new logo remain familiar and meaningful. The Archabbey Church towers, rising above the Hill, are the first things people see as they drive to Saint Meinrad and are our most recognizable landmark. Both St. Benedict and St. Meinrad the hermit had raven companions. In our logo, the two ravens remind us of the Benedictine life that shapes our community and the formation of our students.
“The ravens for us, as Benedictines, are also the symbol of obedience,” explains Fr. Kolbe Wolniakowski, OSB, subprior of the monastery. “This idea that we are listening for of God to direct how we act and within this world.”
The boat, which is found in the Archabbey coat of arms and the School’s seal, represents the monks needs renewal. no need Meinrad’s a a fonts, a and us way to Saint newsletters to landmark. In our us our formation our obedience,” monastery. “This the voice act move in the and the the monks
To learn more about Saint Meinrad’s new visual identity, visit www.saintmeinrad.org/themonastery/brand-refresh/.
Alumni Reunion
2026: Prayer, Fellowship, and Formation
Saint Meinrad welcomes alumni back on the Hill for the annual Alumni Reunion, July 27–29, 2026. Rooted in prayer, fellowship, and formation, this year’s reunion invites alumni to return to campus, reconnect with classmates, and partake in the Mass, banquets, and gatherings that make the Hill feel like home.
Guests who arrive early on Sunday, July 26, may begin their reunion experience with prayer with the monastic community, a reception in the Alumni Commons, and a showing of the film “Ordinary Angels” in St. Bede Theater.
Monday’s schedule reflects the rhythm of life on the Hill. For early risers, the day begins with Vigils and Lauds, followed by Mass and breakfast. Alumni may participate in a guided Archabbey Church and campus tour with Br. Zachary Wilberding, OSB, or register separately for the golf outing.
REUNION Alumni
Oblate Stephen Drees will give the morning presentation titled “Dorothy Day: Servant of God and Benedictine Oblate—Her Life, Faith, Works, and Cause for Canonization” in St. Bede Theater. In the afternoon, Fr. Harry Hagan, OSB, will present, “Old Testament Studies: Its History and New Focus.” Guests may also enjoy an art tour with Fr. Denis Robinson, OSB, and a tour of the Institute for Sacred Music with Br. John Glasenapp, OSB. The day concludes with the Anniversary Class Banquet, honoring the classes of Theology 2021 (5 years), Theology 2016 (10 years), Theology 2001 (25 years), College 1986 (40 years), Theology 1986 (40 years), College 1976 (50 years), Ordination 1976 (50 years), High School 1966 (60 years), and Ordination 1966 (60 years).
Tuesday offers more opportunities for prayer and reflection. Morning Prayer will take place in St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel, and Fr. Denis will lead a twopart Day of Recollection in St. Bede Theater. Alumni may also tour the Abbey Caskets workshop or participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
The Alumni Reunion Mass will be celebrated at 3 p.m. in the Archabbey Church. That evening, alumni will
gather for the Alumni Reunion Banquet, where Fr. Meinrad Brune, OSB, will be honored as the 2026 Distinguished Alumnus.
On Wednesday morning, guests may attend the Estate and Wills Planning Seminar and those who have registered separately will depart for the Louisville Bourbon Experience, returning later that afternoon.
The Alumni Reunion is more than a series of events. It is a chance to pray together, to walk familiar paths, and to reconnect with friends who share a common formation and mission. Whether it has been five years or 50, the Hill still calls its alumni home—to pray, to celebrate, and to give thanks together.
Registration is now open. Alumni are encouraged to make plans early and reserve their place for the annual Alumni Reunion. Details and registration information are available at alumni.saintmeinrad.edu.
Distinguished
A
Life Inspired by St. Meinrad: Fr. Meinrad to be Honored as Distinguished Alumnus ALUMNUS
As Novice Richard Brune approached his first profession in 1956, he submitted three religious names to Archabbot Bonaventure Knaebel, OSB, as is the custom for Saint Meinrad monks receiving a new name at first profession.
“My first choice was Matthias, my second choice was Aquinas, and now you know I got my third choice, Meinrad,” he explains.
Fr. Meinrad was happy with the name. He had placed the name on his list because of the example of St. Meinrad, the martyr of hospitality. A monk’s patron saint serves as a spiritual role model. The hermit’s deep love for God,
his devotion to Mary, and his life of charity were qualities Fr. Meinrad hoped to grow into.
“I knew it would take me all the rest of my life to try to live out those three wonderful conditions of my patron, but at least I was going to try,” he says.
Nearly seven decades later, that lifelong effort is being recognized. This year, at the Tuesday evening banquet of the Alumni Reunion, Fr. Meinrad will be awarded the Distinguished Alumnus Award. The award honors alumni who exemplify Gospel values and have demonstrated exceptional service in their lives and professions. For many who know Fr. Meinrad, the honor simply recognizes what they have witnessed for decades: a monk and priest who has lived the Benedictine values of hospitality, humility, and service over his 92 years.
Fr. Meinrad was born and raised in Indianapolis, IN. He made his first profession of vows on August 15, 1956, and was ordained a priest on May 7,
1961. He has a Master of Arts degree in political theory from Butler University, a Bachelor of Sacred Theology from The Catholic University of America, and a Master of Divinity from Saint Meinrad School of Theology.
Following ordination, Fr. Meinrad taught history and political science at Saint Meinrad High School and College for 16 years.
“He was the kind of teacher whose influence extended well past the classroom, shaping both the minds and character of those entrusted to his care,” says Del Steinhart, who served on the faculty alongside Fr. Meinrad. “His example of kindness, dedication, and fidelity to the monastic vocation continues to inspire me and many others.”
In 1977, Fr. Meinrad left teaching behind for parish assignments, first at St. Meinrad Parish, St. Meinrad, IN, for three years, and then at St. Mary’s Parish, Huntingburg, IN, for four years. In 1984, he began work in Saint
Meinrad’s Development Office as an associate director of development and then as alumni director for nine years.
“For the past 70 years—70 years!—Fr. Meinrad has given his life in service to the Church as a monk and priest of Saint Meinrad Archabbey. As an educator, he left lasting impressions on countless people. He shepherded the people of God as pastor in both Huntingburg and the town of St. Meinrad. As alumni director, he cultivated and maintained lasting relationships and friendships with people who still send him fruitcakes at Christmas,” reflects Br. Stanley Rother Wagner, OSB.
From 1995 to 2017, Fr. Meinrad served as director of the Benedictine Oblate community, a role he speaks about with particular gratitude.
“Being oblate director has certainly deepened my appreciation and love for my Benedictine vocation as a monk,” he says. “To see and hear our people of faith out there, men and women, who have a deep faith and are very
concerned with their spiritual life, has really been inspiring to me.”
He later served as archivist for the Saint Meinrad Archives and for the archives of the Swiss-American Benedictine Congregation from 2017 until 2023, when he retired from official work in the monastery. Retirement, however, has not meant stepping away from service. He offers Mass in the infirmary chapel, hears confessions in the Guest House, School, and monastery, writes letters, gives conferences and retreats, and helps in the vestry.
“Together with many other monks, I have often said that I want to be like Fr. Meinrad when I grow up and as I grow older. He is such a faithful monk and dedicated priest. He has given himself fully and generously in every assignment in which I have witnessed him,” says Fr. Mark O’Keefe, OSB.
For Fr. Meinrad, that dedication and generosity were inspired by the example of his patron, St. Meinrad. He says that the charity, hospitality, and
devotion he witnessed in the saint shaped the way he approached every assignment.
“I love to meet people,” Fr. Meinrad says. “I enjoy taking care of guests, I enjoy taking care of the oblates, I loved my work as the alumni director, and I’m sure that was the influence of the charity and hospitality that St. Meinrad had. I have always tried to show that in the jobs that I’ve had.”
He once said he would only know at the end of his life whether he had truly lived up to the three qualities of his patron: love of God, devotion to Mary, and charity. Those who have worked beside him, learned from him, and been welcomed by him would likely say he has been answering that question for decades. In the quiet, steady way he has served, Fr. Meinrad has grown fully into the name he was given.
“ HE WAS THE KIND OF TEACHER WHOSE INFLUENCE EXTENDED WELL PAST THE CLASSROOM, SHAPING BOTH THE MINDS AND CHARACTER OF THOSE ENTRUSTED TO HIS CARE.
Fr. Henry R. Baxa, T’90 (’86-90), of Belleville, KS, died on November 9, 2025.
Mr. Robert W. Born, O’56 (’47-49), of Indianapolis, IN, died on September 25, 2024.
Sr. Marlene Buese, SS’85 (’81-82, ’8485), of Belleville, IL, died on November 18, 2025.
Fr. Linh N. Bui, T’14 (’10-14),of Elgin, OK, died on September 20, 2025.
Mr. Mark A. Buldak, C’78 (’74-78), of Elk Grove Village, IL, died on August 10, 2024.
Dcn. Michael J. Burke, PD’12 (’08-12), of Casper, WY, died on August 29, 2024.
Mr. Jerry T. Clifford, C’69 (’65-66), of Indianapolis, IN, died on January 2, 2026.
Mr. Howard J. Curtin, SPH’57 (’55-57), of Tucson, AZ, died on July 10, 2025.
Mr. Paul V. Davisson Sr., O’66 (’54-56), of Jupiter, FL, died on December 2, 2025.
Mr. John C. DeBakker, C’73 (’70-73), of Oak Ridge, TN, died on November 3, 2025.
Mr. Louis P. Denny, O’57 (’50-53), of Ukiah, CA, died on September 20, 2025.
Fr. James A. Downs, O’70 (’66-70), of Canonsburg, PA, died on November 17, 2025.
Dcn. Lawrence P. Durbin, PD’12 (’0405, ’08-12 ), of Richmond, KY, died on October 1, 2025.
Mr. Richard J. Elworth, O’67 (’61-62), of House, NM, died on July 26, 2025.
Mr. Lorenzo “Larry” A. Esquibel, O’64 (’58-62), of Mountain View, CA, died on November 6, 2025.
Ms. Deberah “Deb” L. Fleck, GTP’11 (’08-10), of Jasper, IN, died on January 29, 2026.
Mr. Bennett Ford, O’66 (’60-62), of Portland, OR, died on November 17, 2024.
Mr. Stephen D. Goffinet, C’70 (’62-63), of Tell City, IN, died on September 26, 2025.
Rev. Dr. Robert C. Groher, O’66 (’6066), of Oconto, WI, died on October 1, 2025.
Mr. William N. Gross, O’69 (’61-62), of Vancouver, WA, died on June 5, 2025.
Dcn. Michael E. Helfter, PD’05 (’0105), of Jasper, IN, died on October 30, 2025.
Very Rev. John T. Howren, V.F., T’96 (’89-96), of Atlanta, GA, died on January 12, 2026.
Mr. Robert “Linus” James, O’66 (’5455), of Tell City, IN, died on September 11, 2025.
Mr. Robert D. Juozitis, T’86 (’81-82), of Edmond, OK, died on April 24, 2025.
Rev. Msgr. Daniel J. Jurek, O’73 (’6673), of Belleville, IL, died on November 14, 2025.
Fr. Leo C. Kiesel, O’63 (’51-59), of Loogootee, IN, died on December 20, 2025.
Very Rev. James T. Kirk Jr., T’86 (’8286), of Wilmington, DE, died on November 27, 2025.
Rev. Msgr. Kenneth R. Knapp, O’63 (’51-59), of Evansville, IN, died on December 8, 2025.
Fr. David L. McCafferty, O’64 (’52-53), of Akron, OH, died on January 13, 2025.
Fr. Michael V. McDevitt, O’71 (’67-71), of Springfield, MO, died on January 9, 2026.
Mr. William “Bill” P. McGuire, O’64 (’52-58), of Indianapolis, IN, died on January 15, 2026.
Mr. James “Jim” Q. McKowen, O’58 (’52-54), of Lima, OH, died on December 20, 2025.
Sr. Mary Michelle Naber, SCN, SS’80 (’74-75, ’77-80), of Louisville, KY, died on September 29, 2025.
Ms. Diana L. Peffers, GTP’01 (’99-01), of Pella, IA, died on October 14, 2025.
Fr. G. Nicholas Rice, O’67 (’61-67), of Masonic Home, KY, died on December 30, 2025.
Fr. Leo P. Riley, O’82 (’78-82), of Punta Gorda, FL, died on December 16, 2025.
Mr. Robert G. Rosenblatt Jr., C’69 (’6164), of Gallatin, TN, died on October 14, 2025.
Mr. Joseph M. Schumacher, O’58 (’5054), of Green Bay, WI, died on September 22, 2025.
Mr. Thomas M. Seffrin, O’69 (’57-68), of Connersville, IN, died on October 5, 2025.
Mr. Wilburn “Mike” Sitzman Sr., O’66 (’53-56), of Evansville, IN, died on July 18, 2025.
Fr. Germain Swisshelm, OSB, O’60 (’57-61), of St. Meinrad, IN, died on January 24, 2026.
Dr. Eugene F. Trott, O’58 (’51-52), of Clarksville, IN, died on December 4, 2024.
Dcn. Philip M. Wanek, PD’12 (’08-12), of Etna, WY, died on August 3, 2024.
Mr. John E. Ward, O’60 (’48-61), of Evansville, IN, died on August 31, 2025.
Fr. Joseph A. Weigman, T’91 (’85-91), of Perrysburg, OH, died on December 6, 2025.
A key to the initials behind the names of alumni:
C: College
GTP: Graduate Theology Programs
HS: High School
MAT: Master of Arts (Theology)
MAPT: Master of Arts (Pastoral Theology)
MTS: Master in Theological Studies
O: Ordination
PD: Permanent Deacon Formation Program
S: Sabbaticant
SPH: St. Placid Hall
SS: Summer Session
T: Theology
Dr. Bob Breen, O’79, (’75-79),of Rockwall, TX, ran his 10th BMW half marathon in Dallas on December 14, 2025. This was his 30th half marathon, and he’s run over 50 competitive running events in the past 10 years. He continues to provide psychotherapy to military veterans in his private practice in Rockwall, TX, and loves to fish and ride horses with his wife Laura and their two adult children. As time permits, he still plays guitar and sings for local events in his community.
Mr. T. Michael Egan Jr., C’71 (’63-69), and Mr. Paul Gabonay, C’71 (’67-71), extend their sincere appreciation to the family, friends, former parishioners and admirers of Fr. Noah Casey, O’76 (’67-76), a deceased priest of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, for helping to make 2025 such a successful year for All Things Spiritual (ATS), an initiative created in his memory. Both the inaugural ATS celebration of Fr. Noah’s life in June and the accumulated gifts to the ATS fund at the Central Indiana Community Foundation are a testament to the impact of his
ministry while among us. For information about ATS and its mission, contact Paul at gabonay@sbcglobal.net or Mike at egan3912@att.net.
Fr. Mike Johns, T’17 (’12-17), of Hot Springs, AR, wrote an article in Public Discourse titled, “The Dignity of the Family and American Democracy,” which tackles the Trump administration’s policy of family separation in its enforcement of immigration laws.
Fr. Michael Maples, Ph.D., T’05, (’0005), of Conception, MO, has joined the staff of Conception Seminary College in Missouri as the associate director of counseling services and assistant professor of social and behavioral sciences. A priest of the Diocese of Knoxville, as well as a psychologist, he served within that diocese at Catholic Charities of East Tennessee and as a parish priest.
Fr. Jeff Nicolas, T’93 (’86-93), of Mount Washington, KY, was noted as one of the 100 outstanding alumni of Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis.
Fr. Jacob Restrick, OP, (formerly “Harry”), O’69 (’61-65), of Hawthorne, NY, has authored a five-volume novel series beginning with Sister Mary Baruch: The Early Years. The books follow a young woman’s journey of faith and vocation in the late 1960s. The series is available on Amazon.
Dr. Sharon Schuhmann, GTP’11, (’0811), of Louisville, KY, published the book, Preaching Through Guided Awareness: Seeking the Encounter of God’s Presence. Archbishop Shelton Fabre gave the book his imprimatur. It is available on Amazon.
Dr. C. Carney Strange, C’69 (’61-69), of Bloomington, IN, received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree during the fall convocation at Memorial University of Newfoundland on October 16, 2025.
Mr. Gerard Striby, C’84 (’80-84), of Franklin, IN, received the Outstanding Alumni Award on November 1, 2025, at St. Therese Little Flower Catholic School.
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St. Meinrad, IN 47577
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Alumni Outreach
A NEW APPROACH, A STRONGER CONNECTION
For years, the phonathon has been a way of connecting our alumni with seminarians and vice versa. Last year, we shifted to our new approach—the Alumni Outreach program—for which seminarians choose to write to our alumni or participate in a call night over two evenings in February.
The second year of Alumni Outreach was very successful. Students spoke with more than 144 alumni who gave gifts and made pledges totaling more than $40,125. Additionally, students received 32 pledges of unspecified amounts. And all of that is just from the calls; we are continuing to receive gifts from alumni who received a seminarian’s letter instead of a phone call.
Alumni Outreach has given our seminarians the opportunity to speak with or write to alumni from all over
the country. These correspondences have the dual benefit of alumni hearing from seminarians about what formation looks like today and seminarians getting a broader sense of Saint Meinrad’s history.
“Good fruit is continually coming from the connections made between our alumni and seminarians, whether in the form of a call or letter,” said Tim Florian, director of annual giving. “And I am grateful to witness those meaningful interactions firsthand.”
Gifts to the Alumni Outreach help to cover the cost of tuition and general operations, which enables Saint Meinrad to remain competitive when compared to other seminaries. Alumni can make gifts to the 2025–26 Alumni Annual Giving Program until June 30. To give online, visit donate.saintmeinrad.edu.
Thursday, August 6, 2026
All Saints Parish, Rossford, OH
Thursday, August 13, 2026
The Olmsted, Louisville, KY
Tuesday, September 29, 2026
The Bauerhaus, Evansville, IN
Thursday, October 29, 2026
Woodstock Club, Indianapolis, IN
Thursday, November 12, 2026
Saint Meinrad, St. Meinrad, IN