ON THE HILL
SUMMER 2026 - VOL. 65.2
Contents FEATURES Monks’ Personals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Monastery News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Bishop Godfrey Mullen, OSB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 Jubilees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Student Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11 Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 ALUMNI Alumni Eternal and News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15 Alumni Annual Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 On the Hill 5K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 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: The Editor, The Development Office, Saint Meinrad Archabbey and Seminary & School of Theology, 200 Hill Drive, St. Meinrad, IN 47577, 812-357-6501 • news@saintmeinrad.edu www.saintmeinrad.edu, © 2026, Saint Meinrad Archabbey
C O V E R P H O T O : BISHOP GODFREY MULLEN, O S B , I N C E N S E D T H E A LTA R D U R I N G M A S S AT T H E C AT H E D R A L O F S T. P E T E R O N M AY 1 , 2 0 2 6 , W H E R E H E WA S O R D A I N E D A N D I N S TA L L E D B I S H O P O F T H E D I O C E S E O F BELLEVILLE, IL. F I N D M O R E P H O T O S AT S A I N T- M E I N R A D . S M U G M U G . C O M .
Monks’ Personals Fr. Nathaniel Szidik published an article, “The Fourth Gospel as a Call Narrative for Today’s Real Reader,” in the November 2025 edition of Estudios Bíblicos, an academic journal from the Universidad Eclesiástica San Dámaso in Spain. Br. Francis de Sales Wagner presented a live spiritual formation webinar to members of the Catholic Media Association on February 26. The title was “St. Francis de Sales: A Model for Journalists and Catholic Media.” He is also writing scriptural reflections for the monthly publication Give Us This Day. His first contribution will appear in the March 2027 issue. Br. Joel Blaize published a choral anthem for Advent entitled “Our Coming King” in April for Oregon Catholic Press. It was written for their Easy Choral Anthem series. It is available to listen to and purchase at 2 | ON THE HILL
www.ocp.org/en-us/songs/91457/ourcoming-king. Fr. Lorenzo Penalosa presented a paper on the Masses for Christian Unity at Catholic University of America’s Graduate Student Conference on April 18. Br. Stanley Rother Wagner offered an archival workshop to a group of volunteers at St. Francis Xavier Parish, Carbondale, IL, on April 22, where he assisted them in organizing their church’s records. Br. John Glasenapp delivered two presentations in France in May entitled “Saint Quiriace et la Vraie Croix: Tradition, polémique et mémoire liturgique entre judaïsme et christianisme.” Fr. Simon Herrmann led the annual community retreat at St. Joseph Abbey in Covington, LA, from May 18-22.
Fr. Eugene Hensell directed a retreat for the priests of the Diocese of Owensboro in June. He also taught Scripture to the novices and junior monks of the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky from May through September. Fr. Harry Hagan had two hymns published by OCP Publishers. The hymns are titled “Hail, Glorious Lady” the Lauds hymn for the Blessed Mother, and “Now Praise the Keeper of Bright Heaven’s Realm,” a translation of Caedmon’s hymn, the oldest poem in the English language. Fr. Thomas Gricoscki led the community retreat for St. Andrew’s Abbey in Valyermo, CA, in June. He also presented an academic paper in July at Mount Angel Abbey and Seminary in Oregon as part of the Mount Angel Institute’s Fellowship of Scholars on the theme of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein).
A Life in Hispanic Ministry REMEMBERING BR. ANDREW ZIMMERMANN, OSB Br. Andrew Zimmermann, OSB, a monk of Saint Meinrad Archabbey, died May 1, 2026. Br. Andrew was 91 and in the 70th year of his monastic profession. He was born in Richmond, VA, on December 23, 1934, to Henry Andrew and Josephine (Seay) Zimmermann and was named William Henry at his baptism. In 1950, having completed his elementary education at Saint Benedict’s Grade School in Richmond, he attended Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond for three years. In 1953, he entered Saint Meinrad’s St. Placid Hall as an oblate to complete his education. He was invested as a novice on February 9, 1955, professed his simple vows on March 11, 1956, and his perpetual vows on March 11, 1959. He worked in the Tailor Shop until he was assigned to assist at Saint
Meinrad’s priory in Peru in November 1963. At the priory, he served as director of the physical plant, business manager, and treasurer. Seventeen years later, Br. Andrew returned to Saint Meinrad to work in the Business Office and Mailroom/Duplicating Office. He then served from 1996–2004 in Guatemala at Priorato San José in the Diocese of Quetzaltenago, the mission priory of Marmion Abbey (Aurora, IL). He served as Guestmaster there and in the clinic which tended to the medical and dental needs of the students. Returning once again to Saint Meinrad, he assisted at the Guadalupe Center in Huntingburg, Indiana, until recently. On the Hill, Br. Andrew was also among those faithfully providing transportation to doctor’s offices for his confreres. Br. Andrew’s fondest memories took him back to his days in Peru and Guatemala, and he never lost interest nor lacked energy in ministering to the Spanish-speaking population. His typical gruff and often apparently carefree attitude disguised a warm and concerned heart. The Office of the Dead was prayed on May 5, and the Funeral Liturgy was celebrated on May 6. ON THE HILL | 3
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GODFREY MULLEN, OSB
BISHOP
Fr. Godfrey Mullen, OSB, Becomes Third Saint Meinrad Monk Named Bishop As a young monk, Fr. Godfrey Mullen, OSB, sat in a community meeting about the dwindling enrollment at Saint Meinrad College. One of the older monks grew agitated, then stood and walked to the microphone. “If we exist only for ourselves,” he said, “then we are not living the monastic life that Benedict envisioned, and we should be ashamed of ourselves. We must be a light on a hill so that others might come to know the glory of God.” He knew from that moment that Saint Meinrad existed for more than itself. That conviction stayed with him through 14 years of parish ministry and, this spring, to his ordination and installation as bishop of the Diocese of Belleville, IL, only the third Saint Meinrad monk in its 172-year history to be named a bishop.
news. Priests are rarely named bishop of their home diocese, and diocesan administrators are not typically appointed to lead the dioceses they are serving. Cardinal Pierre’s charge was direct: “Remain a monk—be a man of community, be a man of prayer, and be a man of simplicity.” That, Bishop Godfrey says, is both his consolation and his gift to the Church in southern Illinois. For Bishop Godfrey, the call to “remain a monk” connects to what he learned years earlier at Saint Meinrad: the light on the Hill is meant to be shared. Bishop Godfrey was born in Alton, IL, and raised in Salem, in the Diocese of Belleville. “These are people that I’ve known since I was nine months old,” he says. “These are people whose relationship with Christ has fascinated me since I was a little boy.” A Felician sister encouraged him to think about the priesthood, and later a monk invited him to consider monastic life. Both times he said no, but neither invitation left him.
Pope Leo XIV named Bishop Godfrey the 10th bishop of Belleville on March 13, 2026. On May 1, more than 1,000 people gathered at the Cathedral of St. Peter, where Cardinal Blase Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, installed him.
He professed vows as a Benedictine monk in 1989, was ordained a priest in 1994, and spent 14 years serving at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology before entering parish ministry in 2012.
He was surprised when Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the apostolic nuncio to the United States, called with the
Those years prepared him to carry the Benedictine values into episcopal ministry.
Becoming a bishop changed how he lives two of his vows, but fidelity to the monastic way of life remains. “My vow of obedience is now to the Holy Father, not to the abbot,” he says. “And my vow of stability is gone because I am incardinated as a priest of Belleville.” That takes shape in stewardship, a concept he watched transform parishes he served in Evansville and Belleville. Stewardship rests on four pillars: hospitality, prayer, formation, and service. “Prayer is our hospitality to God,” he says. “Formation is our hospitality to the Church’s teaching and tradition. And service is hospitality to the needs of my brothers and sisters.” His Benedictine vision now shapes his hopes for the Diocese of Belleville: to work together to build the kingdom of God. “We must be that light,” Bishop Godfrey says, “but sometimes people can’t come to the Hill where we live. Sometimes, the light of the Hill has to go to them.” As bishop, that light is no longer his to carry into one parish. “It’ll be my job now to help inspire that light,” he says, “not just in the 1,250 people at the Cathedral, but also for the whole diocese.” Scan the QR code to read the full story.
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Two Saint Meinrad Monks Celebrate Priesthood Jubilees Two Benedictine monks of Saint Meinrad Archabbey observed anniversaries of their priesthood ordination in May. Fr. John McMullen reached his 60th anniversary of priesthood ordination, while Fr. Denis Quinkert marked his 50th anniversary of ordination. They were honored during Mass on Sunday, May 31. Fr. John McMullen is a native of Vincennes, IN. He became a monk of Blue Cloud Abbey, Marvin, SD, on August 1, 1960, and made his first profession of vows on August 15, 1961. He studied at Saint Meinrad’s high school and college from 1955–60, completing college at Blue Cloud Abbey. He studied theology at St. Bede Abbey, Peru, IL, and was ordained a priest on May 29, 1966. He did graduate studies at The Catholic University of America from 1967–69 and holds a master’s degree in library science. As a monk of Blue Cloud Abbey, he held various assignments, including 40 years as the abbey librarian. He also ministered in area parishes and worked as the abbey treasurer.
He served the Native Americans at St. Ann’s Indian Mission, Belcourt, ND, for three years. When Blue Cloud Abbey closed, Fr. John transferred to Saint Meinrad Archabbey in 2013. From 2016 until June 2021, Fr. John served as prior (second in leadership) in the monastery. He was an adjunct priest at St. Meinrad Parish in St. Meinrad, IN, and St. Boniface Parish in Fulda, IN, and a commuting chaplain for Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand, IN, from 2013 until 2021. He currently serves as a confessor for the seminary, monastery, and Guest House. Fr. Denis Quinkert is a native of New Albany, IN. In 1950, he came to Saint Meinrad to study at St. Placid Hall, a high school for those interested in becoming monastic brothers. He joined the Benedictine monastery at Blue Cloud Abbey in Marvin, SD, in 1954, and professed his vows on February 10, 1956. As a Benedictine brother, he worked on the abbey farm, helped with the construction of the monastery and farm buildings, and served as a prefect
at the Indian schools staffed by Blue Cloud Abbey. He later studied theology at Pope John XXIII Seminary in Weston, MA, and was ordained a priest on May 25, 1976. He served as a pastor at Fort Totten in North Dakota and at Wagner and Milbank in South Dakota, as well as at St. Paul Parish in Marty, SD. He was a chaplain to the Benedictine sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery and the students at Mount Marty College in Yankton, SD. Fr. Denis was elected abbot of Blue Cloud Abbey two times, serving from 1986–1991 and again from 2009 until the abbey closed in 2012. At that time, he joined the Saint Meinrad community. He has served as a commuting chaplain for Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand, IN, and assisted with transportation at Saint Meinrad. He is a Mass celebrant for the Saint Meinrad Infirmary.
NOTEWORTHY NEWSWORTHY ITEMS ABOUT SAINT MEINRAD PEOPLE AND EVENTS Saint Meinrad alumnus Bishop Peter Libasci, O’77 (’73-77), of the Diocese of Manchester gifted a hand-carved statue of Our Lady of Einsiedeln to Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in Manchester in February. Installed in the hospital lobby, it marked the first anniversary of CMC’s partnership with HCA Healthcare. Bishop Libasci commissioned the hand-carved statue as a personal gift celebrating a year of growth since the
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merger. Crafted in the Tyrolean Alps in coordination with the Abbey of Einsiedeln in Switzerland, it took nearly a year and a half to arrive in Manchester. Fr. Lorenzo Penalosa, OSB, who is studying for a doctorate in liturgical studies at Catholic University of America, and fellow graduate student Mariana Barillas launched a new podcast in the spring titled “Studeamus Theology Podcast.”
In each episode, they interview theology professors at CUA about their academic journey, research interests, current projects, and advice for students. Studeamus is Latin for “Let us be eager to learn” or “Let us study.” The podcast is available on YouTube at www.youtube.com /@LorPenOSB and on Spotify in audio-only format.
Events
ON THE HILL AUGUST 1
Guest House Workshop: “The Catholic Approach to Studying Scripture” by Jane Feliz Rush AUGUST 21-23
Guest House Retreat: “Experiences of Prayer in the Bible” by Fr. Eugene Hensell, OSB AUGUST 28-30
Guest House Retreat: “Forgiving Because We Are Forgiven” by Br. Zachary Wilberding, OSB SEPTEMBER 11-13
Guest House Retreat: “Lifted High: A Retreat for the Exaltation of the Holy Cross” by Fr. Kolbe Wolniakowski, OSB SEPTEMBER 12
Cultural Event: Arete Orchestra, St. Bede Theater, 7:30 p.m. Central time SEPTEMBER 14-17
Art Workshop: “Basket Weaving: Beginning and Beyond” by Br. Jean Fish, OSB
After more than three years, Peanut Brother peanut butter is back in production at Saint Meinrad Archabbey. What began as a simple idea—two monks creating a healthier peanut butter for the monastery— quickly grew into a favorite product for many. The Original Grind is made of just peanuts and salt. “We’re delighted to bring Peanut Brother back for our benefactors, monks, seminarians, co-workers, oblates, and all those connected to Saint Meinrad and the wider community,” said Archabbot Kurt Stasiak, OSB. The return of Peanut Brother comes in response to consistent interest and
requests from customers and supporters. While production previously focused on wholesale distribution, this reintroduction centers on a smaller, more sustainable approach that allows Saint Meinrad’s team to meet demand while continuing to reflect care and quality in every jar. As part of this shift, Peanut Brother will not expand into broader wholesale distribution at this time. Peanut Brother is currently available in three varieties: The Original Grind, Heavenly Honey, and Chocolate Covenant. You can find all three in-store at Saint Meinrad Books & Gifts, or online at www.peanutbrothermonks.com.
PEANUT BROTHER VARIETIES THE ORIGINAL GRIND HEAVENLY HONEY CHOCOLATE COVENANT
SEPTEMBER 17
The Dolle Lecture on Church Art and Architecture by Dr. Lindsay Cook on the topic of the restoration of Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris, St. Bede Theater, 7 p.m. Central time SEPTEMBER 18-20
Guest House Retreat: “Pilgrims of Hope” by Fr. Adrian Burke, OSB SEPTEMBER 25-27
Guest House Retreat: “Serving, Receiving, and Giving: From the Church to the World” by Fr. Simon Herrmann, OSB, and Dcn. David R. Freyer, DO, MS OCTOBER
Rosary Pilgrimage at Monte Cassino Shrine each Sunday at 2 p.m. Central time OCTOBER 3
Cultural Event: Pianists Ian Hobson and Muen Wei, St. Bede Theater, 7:30 p.m. Central time
For more information, call 812-357-6611 or visit our website www.saintmeinrad.org
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Serving God and Neighbor MONKS OF THE ST. MEINRAD FIRE DEPARTMENT The call came in for a medical emergency at a local farm. When firefighters arrived at the address, they found the house empty. After checking back with dispatch, they learned the patient was not in the house at all, but behind a nearby barn. There they discovered a farmer who had been mauled by a bull and knocked to the ground. His wife was tending to his injuries while his son stood guard with a pitchfork. With the bull staring straight at them, the firefighters quickly loaded the injured man onto a backboard and transported him by pickup truck to safety. For Br. Benjamin Brown, OSB, the call serves as a reminder that no two emergencies are alike. “You never know what we will be called for,” he said. “But we work together as a team.” For nearly 140 years, members of the St. Meinrad Volunteer Fire Department
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have answered unexpected calls like these. It is a tradition of service that traces back to the Great Fire of 1887, which destroyed Saint Meinrad Abbey and revealed a need for fire protection for the monastery and the surrounding community. In the following years, monks and local residents stepped forward to meet that need, establishing a tradition of service
that continues today. Generations of monks have taken on the great responsibility of answering emergencies alongside their neighbors and living out their vocation in a uniquely hands-on way. Today, that legacy continues through Br. Benjamin and Br. Ambrose Brahm, OSB, whose dedication to both monastic life and emergency service
Monks who have Served Among those who have served, both living and deceased, are Br. Raban Bivins, Br. Ambrose Brahm, Br. Benjamin Brown, Br. Jerome Croteau, Br. Roger Dorcy, Br. Jesse Gunter, Br. Luke Hodde, Fr. Paul Keiner, Fr. Killian Kerwin, Br. Daniel Linskens, Br. Giles Mahieu, Br. Jason Pohwan, Br. Damian Schepers, Br. Lawrence Shidler, Archabbot Kurt Stasiak, Archabbot Timothy Sweeney, Br. Dominic Warnecke, and Br. Lambert Zink, along with those who served on the radio department: Fr. Noah Casey, Br. Hugh Ernst, Br. Jacob Grisley, Br. Kim Malloy, Fr. Guy Mansini, Br. Angelo Vitale, and Br. Maurus Zoeller.
reflects the enduring spirit of faith, compassion, and sacrifice that has defined Saint Meinrad for generations. Br. Benjamin has been a monk, firefighter, and first responder for 54 years. He professed vows in 1972 and joined the fire department that same year. Br. Ambrose, inspired by Br. Benjamin, decided to join the fire department soon after taking simple vows in January 2025. Br. Benjamin attended Saint Meinrad College and was impressed by what he saw the brothers doing, the life they lived, and how they supported each other, so he decided to follow in their footsteps. Soon after taking his vows as a monk, he joined the fire department under Fr. Killian Kerwin, OSB, the fire chief at the time. Br. Benjamin is proud to work alongside a great group of volunteers, saying, “We work together well, we help each other, and we do good.” His other responsibilities include working in the infirmary and transporting elderly monks to the hospital and doctor appointments. Br. Ambrose felt called to join the fire department and, after praying about it,
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he approached Br. Benjamin about becoming a firefighter. He said, “Once I joined and got through firefighting classes, started responding to runs, and getting to know the guys, I learned that on calls I would never really be on my own, and with the great guys we have as support, I’ve entered that path of first responder, and I am currently taking classes.” Br. Ambrose also takes on other responsibilities in the monastery, including serving as Business Office assistant, assistant sacristan, assistant house prefect, and beekeeper. He will soon start assisting in the infirmary as well. Taking on the roles of firefighter and first responder has deepened their relationship with God and helped them connect with the people they serve. Br. Benjamin relates this role to the Gospel of Luke 10:25-37 and the story of the Good Samaritan—meeting people in moments of need and offering help, compassion, and hope. Br. Ambrose said, “I think we are called to pray constantly, so in responding, we are physically praying as we are serving, so that form of mercy and respect is kind of built into the job
description. I have been on the department a year and have responded to three fatalities. I hold those people in my prayer along with my family and friends that I’ve lost as well.” Support from the local community and the monastery creates an environment for the team to feel safe, loved, and taken care of. For Br. Benjamin and Br. Ambrose, the stability of monastic life provides a strong foundation for their service, allowing them to support people who may be facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives. “We meet people on the worst day of their lives, and we are able to work together as a team to help them,” said Br. Benjamin. “We look at our fellow firefighters as family and friends, and we place our lives in each other’s hands.” Scan the QR code to watch the interview with Br. Benjamin and Br. Ambrose.
W E M E E T P E O P L E O N T H E W O R S T DAY O F T H E I R LIVES, AND WE ARE ABLE TO WORK TOGETHER AS A TEAM TO HELP THEM.
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Meet
THE STUDENT
Q. W H A T A T T R A C T E D Y O U TO THE PRIESTHOOD?
I frequently served at Mass as a boy at my home parish. I didn’t understand much about the beauty of the Mass, but my pastor at the time, Fr. Jim Blessinger, helped me know what was happening was important. Even when he started developing Parkinson’s, he celebrated Mass as though it were the first, last, and only one. I stopped serving in my latter years of high school, but for some reason I found myself still interested in matters of Church history and theology, and I was always curious about the lives of saints, especially in the early years of the Church. The lives of sacrifice subtly pushed me to wonder about what I felt called to give myself towards. Q. W H O O R W H A T INFLUENCED YOU TO BEGIN STUDY FOR THE PRIESTHOOD?
In my junior year of high school, I attended a youth retreat in my diocese called Source & Summit. There were some guys who were helping out who were part of a group called the “House 10 | O N T H E H I L L
of Discernment.” The rector of the House, Fr. Tyler Tenbarge, explained that the House was a place for guys who were feeling the call to go into seminary, and it helped men get into the groove of what seminary life would be like while they were still a college student or young adult. This was one of the first times I was even aware of what was involved in the formation of a priest, and I felt deep down, “I want to do that.” Q. W H A T W E R E Y O U D O I N G BEFORE YOU CAME TO THE SEMINARY?
After I graduated high school in the spring of 2020 (a crazy time), I enrolled at the University of Southern Indiana as an engineering major, but I also decided to move into the House of Discernment that same year. While I was doing all of that, I also worked part time at a local grocery store where I served in almost every department of the store at some point. While in the House, I lived with three other guys and a seminarian who had just graduated college seminary and was taking a gap year. We had a regular schedule of prayer and Mass, as well as the chance for spiritual direction. In many ways, it really was a taste of what seminary would be.
JACOB SCHNEIDER Diocese: Diocese of Evansville, IN Hometown: Evansville, IN
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But Jesus did not call the apostles because they were perfect; in calling them, He was qualifying them.
Q. F A V O R I T E S C R I P T U R E VERSE AND WHY?
“He came to Simon Peter; and Peter said to him, ‘Lord, do you wash my feet?’ Jesus answered him, ‘What I am doing you do not know now, but afterward you will understand.’ Peter said to him, ‘You shall never wash my feet.’ Jesus answered him, ‘If I do not wash you, you have no part in me’” (John 13:6-8). This part of John’s Gospel is constantly a point of reflection for me. It is part of the Gospel reading for Holy Thursday and is a prime example of the life Jesus seeks His apostles to imitate. Peter’s objection reflects a feeling of unworthiness which many who feel called to priesthood often feel, me included. But Jesus did not call the
apostles because they were perfect; in calling them, He was qualifying them. Q. F A V O R I T E S A I N T A N D WHY?
St. Polycarp of Smyrna is one of my favorite saints and a personal patron, even though he is not my confirmation saint. He was born of converts to the faith in ~80 AD in what is now modernday Turkey and was a student of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist. I was drawn to him primarily because of his life of self-gift to the people of Smyrna, where he was a priest and later a bishop, even to the point of giving his life in the ultimate witness of martyrdom. He was a leader in the Church at what many scholars saw to be a very turbulent and confusing time, with souring relations with Jewish Christians and a wave of persecutions leading to many leaving the faith, thinking that Jesus wasn’t coming back at all. Polycarp didn’t have all the answers right away, but he kept the faith and cared for his people to the very end, and that is a huge inspiration for me to this day. Q. H O B B I E S ?
I enjoy getting outside and hiking through the woods or going for a walk, and it doesn’t matter what season it is, or whether it rains or shines. Fishing is another favorite outdoor activity of
mine, and luckily Saint Meinrad has lakes which are stocked with all kinds of fish. My goal has been to catch every kind of fish that resides in these lakes, and a carp is the last one on the list. I also like to read, and my list of books keeps getting longer even when I’m not reading for classes. Right now, I am in between reading The Cardinal by Henry Morton Robinson and Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson. Q. W H A T A S P E C T O F SEMINARY LIFE HAS BEEN M O S T R E WA R D I N G ?
The fraternity of seminary life has been one of the most rewarding parts of life in seminary, and it adds an excitement to other parts of life here at Saint Meinrad. All of the guys here come from varying backgrounds and yet we have all found ourselves here on campus with the desire to give our lives fully to the Lord as priests for our dioceses. It really shows that holy priests can come from anywhere. The brotherhood here is also a great place for support and encouragement in all dimensions of seminary formation, from the spiritual to the academic and pastoral. Q. W H A T H A S B E E N T H E MOST CHALLENGING PART OF SEMINARY LIFE?
One of the most challenging parts of the seminary life is the temptation towards perfection, and it truly is the enemy of formation. I said earlier how the feeling of unworthiness is a common experience for those called to be a priest, and in my own experience, this is not just an academic perfection, but it can also bleed into the spiritual and pastoral dimensions of formation. There are many things that a priest must navigate, and it can seem overwhelming at times. Q. B E S T A D V I C E Y O U ’ V E RECEIVED DURING SEMINARY?
A seminarian from my diocese once said that nobody is out to get you; they are helping you to become the best man you can be. This is part of the reason that I find the fraternity of seminary to be very important. One should not beat themselves up or freeze up wondering if someone is judging them for not doing what they supposedly should be doing. It’s more likely that they are thinking the same thing you are. As such, seminarians can encourage growth in each other because they see gifts present in another that can continue to grow, they build each other up based on respect and true charity.
34 earn master’s degrees from Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology Graduates of Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology, St. Meinrad, IN, were awarded master’s degrees at the commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Angie Greulich, of Jasper, IN, Saint Meinrad alumna and charitable giving relationship manager for Catholic Relief Services, gave the address. Receiving Master of Arts (Catholic Philosophical Studies) degrees were: Ryan Carlson and Ben Keating, Diocese of Little Rock, AR; Hunter Dickens, Diocese of Owensboro, KY; Michael Florin and Matthew Henry, Diocese of Fort Wayne–South Bend, IN;
Steven Kehoe and Sean Sullivan, Diocese of Springfield, IL; Lucas LaRosa, Luke Roesener, and Todd Seiler, Archdiocese of Indianapolis, IN; Hong Le, Thang Trinh, and Peter Trinh, Diocese of Thanh Hóa, Vietnam; Brother Isaac Levering, OSB, and Brother George Meredith, OSB, Saint Meinrad Archabbey, IN. Receiving Master of Arts (Theology) degrees were: Stanley Amuchaka, Diocese of Fort Wayne–South Bend, IN; Karen Guilford, Harrison, OH; Joseph Paul Hayden, Evansville, IN; Christopher Hickman, Louisville, KY;
Glenn Hutchens, Nashville, TN; David Johnson, Springfield, TN; John Knight, Henderson, KY; John Molitor, Milford, DE; Kathleen Morley, Downers Grove, IL; Moses Ndung’u, Glenmary Home Missioners, OH; Aaron Noll, Bloomington, IN; Robert Peters, Cape Girardeau, MO; Shanda Purcell, Mayfield, KY; Eugene Ritter, Weaverville, NC; Edward Saer, Little Rock, AR; Jacob Schneider, Diocese of Evansville, IN; Robert Schulenburg, Cedar Rapids, IA; Elizabeth Suaso, Rochester, MN; Kathleen Weaver, Indianapolis, IN.
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Experiencing the Universal Church FRANCISCO RODRIGUEZ REFLECTS ON FORMATION ABROAD
For seminarian Francisco Rodriguez, formation extends far beyond the classroom. As part of his Second Configuration year at Saint Meinrad, he had Francisco the opportunity Rodriguez to travel to Guatemala and Spain, encountering Christ through fellow seminarians and through those he met along the way. Studying for the Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama and the Archdiocese for the Military Services, Rodriguez found that these experiences offered a deeper appreciation for the Church’s universality and enriched his own spiritual life. Saint Meinrad offers these trips to help seminarians gain exposure to the Universal Church, seeing how others live and celebrate their faith in their own cultures. In Guatemala, the interaction with the local people was very fruitful for Rodriguez. They visited the children at 12 | O N T H E H I L L
Colegio Católico Padre Aplas, families served by Hermanos Down, and residents of Obras Sociales del Santo Hermano Pedro, where he felt the presence of Christ in each encounter. “It’s beautiful to see my classmates who don’t speak Spanish able to come out of their comfort zone, thrive, and forge relationships with local communities,” he said. Even with a language barrier, his fellow seminarians were able to open up in a beautiful way. Rodriguez experienced the liturgy according to the customs of Guatemala, finding that the indigenous community was very lively with guitars and loud music, which was beautifully fitting. “We are all celebrating the same sacrifice of Jesus, but in a way that conforms to the community, which was awesome to witness,” he said. While Guatemala offered opportunities for direct service and personal encounters, Spain revealed the power of longstanding traditions that continue to shape Catholic life today. In Spain, Rodriguez found that the most impactful part of the trip was seeing the devotion of the people through the Holy Week processions. He was especially moved by the
confraternities, whose members have preserved these traditions for generations and continue to involve people of all ages in the life of the Church. “This is a great outward expression of the faith that involves the whole town and can demonstrate truth of the faith and how we walk with Mary and Jesus on the road to Calvary,” he said. Having grown up in Cuba, Rodriguez found many familiar elements in both Guatemala and Spain. The architecture, liturgical traditions, street vendors, and warmth of the people reminded him of home. In Cuba, he learned at a young age to fight for the truth and what he believed. He also learned the importance of an outward expression of faith, much like what he saw in Guatemala and Spain. Both trips helped Rodriguez deepen his prayer life. He expressed, “Being very intentional on keeping prayer and praying as the local people pray is freeing. You incorporate new things and see different devotions, which is enriching, giving you more spiritual experience and different spiritual tools in your tool bag.”
Two Longtime Professors Retire with Emeritus Status This spring, Saint Meinrad said farewell to two long-time faculty members: Dr. Clayton Jefford and Dr. Ryan LaMothe, both of whom have been granted emeritus status after a combined 67 years of teaching. As President-Rector Fr. Denis Robinson, OSB, put it, Saint Meinrad’s faculty stand out not for what they know but for how much they care—a spirit both men embodied throughout their careers. After 37 years of teaching Scripture at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology, Dr. Jefford retired in May. An ordained Southern Baptist minister, Dr. Jefford earned his bachelor’s degree from Furman University and his M.Div. and Th.M. from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary before pursuing doctoral studies at the Claremont Graduate School. He was hired at Saint Meinrad in 1989, encouraged to apply by Fr. Damian Dietlein, OSB, a monk of Assumption Abbey, who taught Scripture at Saint Meinrad for 47 years. Known for his rigor in the classroom, Dr. Jefford pushed students to think for themselves rather than hand them answers. “I don’t care about their answers so much,” he says. “They need to be thinking, ‘what do I need to do to answer this?’ Most of them are going to be priests, and eventually someone’s going to come to them with a lifechallenging question.” Dr. Jefford leaves Saint Meinrad as an internationally recognized expert in New Testament studies and early Christianity. But he says what he'll miss most isn’t the scholarship—it’s the students. “I’ve never regretted one day of being an educator,” he says. “I’m perfectly happy with what I’ve done in life.” For the full story on Dr. Jefford, scan the QR code.
L E F T : D R . R YA N L A M O T H E
R I G H T : D R . C L AY T O N J E F F O R D
Dr. LaMothe concludes a 30-year career of educating, counseling, and forming students at Saint Meinrad. He holds a B.S. from the United States Military Academy at West Point, an M.Div. from the University of Notre Dame, and an M.A. and Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. He joined Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in 1996 as professor of pastoral care and counseling.
that, when accompanying another through a pastoral situation, we are already representatives of God and the Church. This enables us to be more authentically present to the people to whom we minister and to more intimately walk with them.”
Dr. LaMothe found that one of the greatest opportunities and blessings at Saint Meinrad was teaching students from diverse cultures and societies, saying, “The diversity of students makes for a richer learning environment.” Saint Meinrad seminarian Wesley Wheatley said, “St. Francis of Assisi is attributed with saying, ‘Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary, use words.’ Dr. LaMothe teaches a similar sentiment to his students, emphasizing
Dr. LaMothe hopes students strive for excellence in caring for people, in the discipline of self-reflection and accountability, and in a commitment to lifelong learning. He had a great impact on students and faculty at Saint Meinrad and will be remembered for his patience, kindness, wisdom, and humor. For the full story on Dr. LaMothe, scan the QR code.
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ALUMNI ETERNAL Mr. Gerald “Jerry” F. Brown, O’62 (’5163), of Fairview, IN, died on February 12, 2026.
Dcn. Ben E. Johnston Jr., PD’07 (’0307), of Knoxville, TN, died on August 22, 2024.
Mr. Eugene “Gene” S. Petersen Jr., O’72 (’66-72), of Normal, IL, died on November 1, 2025.
Sr. Mary Anne Burkardt, SCN, SS’86 (’81-84, ’92), of Louisville, KY, died on March 19, 2026.
Mr. Richard “Dick” J. Keethers, O’60 (’48-56), of Minneapolis, MN, died on April 16, 2026.
Dcn. John E. Sadowski, PD’03 (’99-03), of Chase City, VA, died on March 15, 2026.
Mr. Clinton “Clint” L. Crockett Jr., O’69 (’60-61), of Terre Haute, IN, died on March 27, 2024.
Dr. Leo J. Knaff, MD, O’55 (’43-49), of Carmel, IN, died on February 2, 2026.
Mr. John “Jack” C. Schaffer, O’67 (’5563), of Norwalk, OH, died on March 27, 2026.
Dcn. Gordon “Joe” J. Daugherty, PD’12 (’08-12), of Lexington, KY, died on November 9, 2025. Mr. Joseph “Jay” P. Fadgen, O’70 (’5967), of Falls Church, VA, died on March 14, 2026. Fr. Joseph M. Fowler, O’61 (’57-61), of Louisville, KY, died on February 14, 2026. Mr. William “Bill” A.C. Francis, O’65 (’56-58), of Copley, OH, died on February 24, 2021. Ms. Carol J. Griesemer, SS’74 (’69-73), of Brookline, MO, died January 2026. Br. Thomas “Tom” J. Haerle, CMF, O’79 (’71-78), of Rancho Dominguez, CA, died on June 28, 2025. Dcn. Thomas “Tom” E. Holsworth Jr., MTS’99 (’93-98), of Jasper, IN, died on May 1, 2026. Mr. Edward “Ed” P. Huff, MAT’01 (’9901), of Evansville, IN, died on February 10, 2026. Mr. Edward “Neal” N. Jackson Sr., GTP (’17), of Loogootee, IN, died on February 14, 2026. Dcn. Michael A. Johnson, PD’03 (’9903), of Virginia Beach, VA, died on April 3, 2025. S P R I N G 2 0 2 6 G R A D U AT I O N
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Mr. Francis D. Knippling, O’64 (’5253), of Wessington Springs, SD, died on March 1, 2024. Fr. Albert “AL” C. Koser, O’59 (’51-53), of Millvale, PA, died on November 25, 2021.
Mr. William “Bill” J. Tarrant, C’70 (’6265), of Santa Claus, IN, died on March 8, 2026. Fr. Robert “Bob” A. Van Kempen, VF, C’89 (’85-89), of Bristol, IN, died on February 12, 2026.
Mr. Thomas L. Lamb, O’65 (’53-57), of Indianapolis, IN, died on February 5, 2026.
Mr. Daniel “Dan” V. Will Sr., O’69 (’6365), of Ambler, PA, died.
Mr. Robert “Bob” A. Malinsky, O’70 (’58-66), of Katy, TX, died on June 28, 2025.
Mr. James “Larry” L. Withem, O’64 (’52-54), of Jamul, CA, died on June 30, 2024.
Dr. John “Jack” E. Manning Jr., O’56 (’44-49), of Goodyear, AZ, died on February 26, 2025.
Br. Andrew W. Zimmermann, OSB, SPH’54 (’53-54), of St. Meinrad, IN, died on May 1, 2026.
Mr. Cavins “Randy” R. Marshall, O’58 (’47-58), of Montreal, MO, died on October 17, 2025.
A key to the initials behind the names of alumni:
Ms. Pamela “Pam” K. McBride, MTS’07 (’04-07), of San Marcos, TX, died on November 25, 2025.
GTP: Graduate Theology Programs
Fr. Aquinas M. Nichols, OSB, O’81 (’7781), of Des Moines, IA, died on February 28, 2026.
C: College 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
Fr. Robert “Bob” E. Osborne, O’54 (’4254), of Louisville, KY, died on April 9, 2026.
S: Sabbaticant
Fr. Aaron Peters, OSB, O’77 (’73-77), of Atchison, KS, died on March 27, 2026.
T: Theology
SPH: St. Placid Hall SS: Summer Session
ALUMNI NEWS Dcn. Paul C. Lim, C’99 (’95-98), of Pittsburgh, PA, was recognized in The Intelligencer, Wheeling News-Register, and Times Leader’s 2026 edition of The Spectrum of Progress for his work as vice president of Mission Integration at WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital. www.theintelligencer.net/spectrumof-progress/2026/02/lim-living-themission-at-wvu-medicine-wheelinghospital/ Fr. Daniel J. Mahan, C’84 (’80-84), of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, was honored by publishers for his 2024 book, A Journey through the Catechism: Unveiling the Truth, Beauty and Goodness of the Catholic Faith. The book, published by Ave Maria Press, received
a first-place award in the “Faith Formation” book category as well as second place in the “Pastoral Ministry: Catechetical” book category at the Catholic Media Association’s (CMA) annual awards. The Association of Catholic Publishers also awarded Fr. Mahan’s book with first place in “Resources for Ministry” and third place in “General Interest.” Ms. Robin L. Murphey, MAT’18 (’1618, ’23-24), of Owensboro, KY, was recognized as a Certified Master Trainer with Leadership Trainer in 2024, facilitating high-impact, highengagement, and high-enjoyment training experiences and reflective dialogue. She also published part of
her theology master’s thesis as a chapter, “Personhood: The Duchenne Smile,” in Exploring Personhood in Contemporary Times: From Leadership to Philosophy (2023), and she has done presentations with international communities, covering various topics on personhood. Dr. C. Carney Strange, C’69 (’61-69), of Bloomington, IN, received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland: www.mun.ca/marcomm/newsarticles/academic-highlight-fallconvocation-nears-honorary-graduate -announced.php
Alumni Annual Giving Program SUPPORTING OUR ONGOING MISSION Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology has always been blessed by the involvement and enthusiasm of our alumni. Through their kindness and generosity, they share in our ongoing mission of forming faithful leaders for the Church, making this important work possible. Along with their active involvement in many varied ways, we are grateful for the enthusiastic support that our alumni show through their giving to the 2025-26 Alumni Annual Giving Program. This fiscal year our alumni generously gave $976,224.03, a response rate of 21.25%. “The strength of the Saint Meinrad alumni community is found in the
lasting connection our alumni maintain with the Hill and with one another,” says Corinna Simpson, director of alumni relations for Saint Meinrad Archabbey. “One of the many ways our alumni show their support for Saint Meinrad is through the Alumni Annual Giving Program, helping to ensure that we can continue preparing priests, permanent deacons, and lay leaders for ministry and service in the Church. Each gift is an expression of that shared commitment, and I am grateful for the many ways our alumni continue to support Saint Meinrad’s mission.” The 2026-27 Alumni Annual Giving Program is now underway. With much
gratitude for your past support, we ask all alumni to support Saint Meinrad this fiscal/academic year. Your support helps keep costs of education affordable, which helps to keep us as a competitive option among the dioceses we serve. Whether you choose to give online, contact the Development Office by phone, or send your contribution by mail, know that your support will make a lasting impact. Alumni who make a gift of $200 or more to the Alumni Annual Giving Program, or are first-time donors making a gift of $100 or more, will receive a custom-designed deck of cards featuring the Saint Meinrad logo on the back of each card.
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