Viator Newsletter 2010 Fall

Viatorian Community

Fall 2010

Volume 15, No. 3

Viatorians hosted their first annual youth congress The young men and women came from across the Province of Chicago, from places like Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, as well as from Arlington Heights, Chicago, Kankakee, and Waukegan, IL.

Together with adult leaders and college interns, they numbered more than 70 eager teenage and young adult men and women participants; moreover, this much they all knew – they called themselves Viatorians. For the first time, the members of the Viatorian Community sponsored a Viatorian Youth

Congress, which drew young delegates from seven of its major ministerial sites in the United States.

Their weeklong session wove the participants together through prayer, song, workshops, and small group sessions. Their youthful energy shone brightly during a talent show, before they came to a hushed silence during a Taize prayer experience, and all while gathering daily for the sacred liturgy. They also completed homework. Delegates worked together to design service projects to take back to their parish or school, to carry out and to extend the Viatorian charism that challenges them to work towards peace and social justice.

At the end of the week, each delegate received a medal of St. Viator and Fr. Louis Querbes. Indeed, most delegates opted to take home a free memento – a biography of Fr. Louis Querbes, the 19th century founder of the Viatorian Community.

“It was an awesome, amazing week,” says Brian Hansen, a senior at Saint Viator High School in

Viatorian Youth Congress 2010

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Viatorians hosted their first annual youth congress... continued from page 1

Arlington Heights. “Just seeing the different sides of the Viatorians, and seeing how their brotherhood deepens their faith, made an impact on me.”

Likewise, Anthony Gugino, a student from St. Viator parish in Las Vegas, echoed the thoughts of others when he admitted he knew little about the religious community of priests, brothers, and associates that serve his parish. “Until the youth congress came around, I never really knew how amazing and how inclusive of a community the Viatorians really are,” Anthony said.

Fr. Corey Brost, CSV, led the congress with the assistance of Br. Daniel Lydon, CSV, Br. John Eustice, CSV, Br. Daniel Tripamer, CSV, and Viatorian Associate Karen Cutler.

“There are a great number of young, enthusiastic, Christian leaders in our parishes and schools who lead liturgical services, retreats, and service trips,” Fr. Brost said. “They make a big difference in their communities.”

Getting Ready for a Large Group Presentation

“Last year, our vocation team decided it would be important to bring these leaders together to focus on our Viatorian charism,” he added, “and to learn how important they are in carrying it forward into the world.”

Delegates were selected based on their leadership and involvement in ministry at their parish or school.

“I didn’t know what to expect,” concedes Kerigan Kenny, a senior at Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, NV. “But it seemed like a great opportunity to strengthen my faith.” In reflecting on his experience, Kerigan pointed to the prayer workshops and experiencing Taize prayer as making the biggest impact on him. “I loved sharing

memories with everyone, but mostly I learned how to engage in prayer in a better way.”

His classmates, Anne Barnhorst, Megan Flaviano, and Casey Tiefenthaler, agreed and added that learning more about the psalms and the parts of the rosary opened Fr. Corey Brost, CSV, discusses an important aspect of the community. up new, dynamic, and Gorman High School, agreed, adding that rich avenues of prayer for them. “When we meeting many of the Viatorians at the broke down the aspects and styles of prayer province center stayed with her long after as a form of communication,” Megan said, their visit. “It was so cool to see how deep “I felt as if a wall between me and God their faith is,” she said. “It was interesting to broke down.” Casey pointed to the hear their stories about how they became a meditation portion of the workshop as Viatorian, and inspiring to learn what they impacting him the most, along with learning want to see happen in our Church.” more about the rosary. “I learned that Reina Hohener of Las Vegas described being meditation was an excellent, new way for raised in St. Viator parish in Las Vegas, but me to experience prayer,” he said. “It was never really understanding its rich heritage. so fulfilling and relaxing.”

“I thought it would be interesting to learn Midway through the week, delegates the background of my church and to see converged on the Viatorian Province Center what other kids my age are doing at other in Arlington Heights, IL, where they Viatorian institutions,” she says. “My favorite interviewed almost twenty Viatorians — part came on the second day. We were all in lay associates, brothers, and priests — and church and just looking around, when I learned how they came to the community realized what an amazing experience this from all walks of life. “That was my favorite was, and how we were all there because part,” says Connor Romenesko, a senior at of one thing, our faith.” Moreover, the adult leaders who moderated the week came away amazed, too. “It exceeded all of our hopes,” Fr. Brost said. “I came away inspired by their commitment to live their faith and accept the mission of Fr. Querbes to make the world a better place.”

Eileen Daday

Students rehearse the music that they will use at the liturgy.

Saint Viator High School. “It was really interesting to talk to Viatorians about why they do what they do and what inspires them.” Erica Silvestri, a junior at Bishop 2

St. Martin de Porres Delegates

Tim and Donna Schwarz reflect on being Associates After 10 years as Viatorian associates, Tim and Donna Schwarz of Arlington Heights, IL, faced a milestone decision: whether to renew their commitments as Viatorian associates for two or five years or make a definitive commitment. “We chose to make it definitive,” Donna says.

“It simply means we have chosen to commit forever to the Viatorian Community as lay associates.”

“Meeting with the group helps prepare us for Sunday liturgy,” Donna says, “but it also is a great way to participate in the continuing education about the Word of God.” Increasingly, however, Viatorian Community members are asking more of Donna and Tim. For example, in February, Donna will serve as an elected delegate at the Viatorian International General Assembly in Bogotá, Colombia. She will join with other Viatorian professed and associate members from 16 countries to discuss international solidarity and to review the Charter of the Viatorian Community, a recently promulgated document that articulates the Viatorian charism.

While in Bogotá, both international and American Viatorians will be looking to her for her input. True to form, Donna is not intimidated, saying: “I am truly looking forward to this opportunity.”

Their commitment ceremony took place during the annual provincial assembly of the Viatorian Community in July, at a special Mass at the Viatorian parish of St. Thomas More Catholic Community in Henderson, NV.

Donna Schwarz

“We feel it is a calling,” Donna says, “and we both feel a strong call to continue to serve as part of this incredible religious community.”

Anyone who visits the Viatorian Province Center in Arlington Heights or does business with Fr. Thomas von Behren CSV, Provincial, knows Donna.

Tim says that “being an associate has allowed me to deepen my faith and put my convictions into action. Since the beginning of this wonderful relationship, the Viatorian Community with its philosophy and its mission has helped me in my daily life. I have been blessed by their friendship and have tried to give back by participating on various committees. I try to live up to the standards of the Viatorian mission and its charism in all that I do. I am proud, humbled, honored, and grateful to be a Viatorian.”

She has worked for the Viatorians since 1995, and since 2000, she has worked as the administrative assistant to the provincial. She is “the gatekeeper,” so to speak, and working side by side with the Viatorians has left its mark. “I see the good works they are doing,” Donna says, “in Colombia, in Belize, and throughout the United States.”

Tim, on the other hand, keeps a somewhat lower profile in the community, but no less important. He is a second term member of the Saint Viator High School Board of Trustees, having served on the Executive Committee, the Building and Grounds Committee, and as the chair of the Spiritual Life Committee. While he enjoyed all three committees, Tim says working with administration to meet the spiritual needs of the high school community is the most rewarding.

Tim Schwarz

Eileen Daday

Shortly after becoming associates, the couple formed a faith sharing group for vowed and associate members of the Viatorian Community. Once a month, they meet to explore the readings and gospel for the upcoming Sunday.

Faith Sharing Group

viatorian commitment 3

DePaul University grants its “Via Sapientiae” award to Fr. John Milton, CSV Fr. John Milton, CSV, was publically honored by the administration, faculty, and students at DePaul University in Chicago, IL. During this past spring’s graduation ceremonies, Fr. Milton was granted the “Via Sapientiae Award,” the university’s highest faculty honor. He was one of three recipients of the award this year; he is the only adjunct faculty member ever to receive it. “Your example and efforts as a physics teacher and mentor have prepared many students for advanced learning and productive professional lives,” the citation read. It went on to commend him for his

work in developing new teaching methods and standards for the American Association of Physics Teachers and, more recently, for the Illinois State Physics Project. “Your personal example and generous support of students and colleagues exemplify the Vincentian ideals on which this university is founded,” it concluded. “You truly have launched a multitude of students on the ‘way of wisdom.’”

For Fr. Milton, who concedes he likes to spend his free time in physics labs, being thrust into the limelight was a bit unexpected, but not unbearable. “It was great,” Fr. Milton says, “especially during the graduation ceremony, when there were about 75 of my physics students in attendance. I was thrilled.”

The award capped his career at DePaul University, which stretched 24 years, mostly

as an adjunct faculty member teaching algebra-based introductory physics to biology and pre-med majors.

His career in higher education, coming after more than 20 years teaching physics at Saint Viator High School in Arlington Heights, IL, was a long way from his years growing up on Chicago’s West side as the oldest son of a headwaiter at Chicago’s Lake Shore Club.

Both his parents were immigrants — his father came from a small village in Greece, while his mother was born in London — who met while working as restaurant workers in Chicago. “They didn’t have the chance to have an education, but they really valued its importance and especially scholarship,” Fr. Milton says.

While attending St. Mel High School, he won a scholarship to attend the former Fournier Institute of Technology in Lemont, IL, where he majored in electrical engineering.

“The Viatorians were my teachers,” Fr. Milton says, “so that’s what attracted me to the community. I always assumed I would teach high school students, but things just sort of developed.” After taking his first vows in 1952, and after being ordained a priest in 1957, Fr. Milton went on to earn a master’s degree in physics from St. Louis University, and it set him on a path of lifelong learning.

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Some of his fondest memories are of sharing his expertise with other teachers, beginning Fr. John Milton, CSV with his early days of establishing the physics curriculum at Saint Viator High School and extending to his second career at DePaul.

In 1986, while serving as the Viatorian Director of Novices, he received an emergency call from DePaul University officials. The head of the Physics Department had suffered a stroke; they needed a qualified teacher to step in and complete the last six weeks of class. Fr. Milton’s unconditional response plunged him into his second career that included computerizing the physics labs at DePaul University, counseling and mentoring new department teachers and countless undergraduate students — all the while staying grounded by teaching introductory physics to science and engineering majors.

“It just kept me in touch with all the new material and new approaches to teaching,” he says.

He may have retired this past June from university teaching, but not from education.

This fall, Fr. Milton began volunteering in the science department at St. Martin de Porres High School in Waukegan, IL. “I really believe in what they do there,” Fr. Milton says. “And besides, what else would I do? I can’t sit here and do crossword puzzles.”

He wants to stay active, he says, and immersed in the one activity that continues to drive him — physics and teaching its applications to young people.

Eileen Daday

Q & A with Rita King Rita King just began her 30th year teaching faith formation to students at Saint Viator High School. The Philadelphia native and University of Dayton alumna found herself uprooted from her East Coast roots when she and her husband Brian settled in Chicago’s suburbs. But in looking back over her life and career, this wife, mother of three grown children, and fulltime teacher now sees God’s handiwork directing her journey.

Community and they are right. It is such a joy to run into people 10, 20, and even 30 years after spending time with them at the Rita King with a Saint Viator High School Student school. I have always been impressed with the way Viator grads stay connected and I am proud to be a part of that ongoing tradition.

Even more, after working alongside members of the Saint Viator High School community and teaching its students, Rita says unequivocally: “I am Viatorian.”

Q. So when did this journey begin?

Q. Where do you feel this commitment of being Viatorian plays out?

A. When I arrived at Saint Viator High School in the fall of 1979, A. I have often asked myself “why here?” Why not move into a new little did I know that I would live and minister within the

experience? It always comes down to the same thing: relationships rooted in faith. Through the relationships I have made at Saint Viator High School, I am continually challenged to be the best person I can be. Saint Viator High School has given me the courage to grow deeper in my relationship with God and others.

I am who I am today because of the love of the people who surround me in my life, and the Viatorian Community is a huge part of that network.

Viatorian Community for the rest of my life. I am Viatorian because of the God who calls me, the work I have chosen, and the people who have sustained me in this commitment and journey.

Q. You use the word “commitment.” Was there a specific time that you

made a conscious decision to live out your commitment as Viatorian?

A. Yes. About 10 years ago, Fr. Christopher Glancy, CSV, was the

Q. What are some of the things you’ve learned in your 30 years at

vocation director for the Viatorians; he gave me a card from the National Catholic Vocation Council that read:

Saint Viator?

“If not us, who?

“If not here, where?

“If not now, when?

“If not for the Kingdom, why?

“Dare the Dream.”

I still have the card and over the years these words have come to define my Viatorian experience. I can remember giving a reflection at the St. Viator Day liturgy at school about what it means to be Viatorian, and I used these words to support my thoughts.

As I reflect on 30 years of Viatorian ministry, I believe these words still ring true.

A. Each day I step into Saint Viator High School, I know and

believe that God will be with me and work through me, if only I let Him. It is an easy commitment to surrender yourself because I know that I am joined by others who feel the same way. I have received tremendous support from Viatorians in sharing the gospel with young people in my efforts to make the message of Jesus alive and burning in their hearts.

Q. Finally, talk about the some of the rewards of being Viatorian.

A. Teaching about faith every day can be one of the most exhausting

Q. Was it the Viatorians themselves who influenced you or your students

and challenging things, but it also can be one of the most rewarding, as people invite you to enter their lives and share in their journey. I know that as a teacher, I am but a planter of seeds.

I am not the Master Gardener, God is. But if somewhere along the way, I have offered hope and encouragement, and enabled my students to see the love God has for them in their lives, then I have been a success. The Viatorians and their mission of working with young people has allowed me to see this.

at Saint Viator High School that helped you come to this conclusion?

A. I have met countless men and women of faith through my

connection with the Viatorian Community. I have seen the face of God in my students, co-workers, parents, and friends of Saint Viator High School. My family tells me that we cannot go anywhere that I do not bump into someone I know from the Viatorian

spiritual journey Eileen Daday

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Viatorians celebrate diaconate ordinations, definitive commitments We seek to become makers of a new world, a sign of God’s Kingdome to come.

(Viatorian Constitutions 10)

Over the past several months, six Viatorians have discerned God’s call in their lives in special ways. On June 5th, 2010, the Viatorian Community prayerfully celebrated the ordination to the transitional diaconate of Br. Moses Mesh, CSV, and Br. Jason Nesbit, CSV, at Maternity BVM Catholic Church, in Bourbonnais, IL. Most Reverend Jacques Berthelet, CSV, Viatorian Bishop of the Diocese of Saint-Jean-Longueuil, Canada, presided.

Br. Mesh, a native of Corozal District, Belize, is completing graduate theological studies at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, IL, while serving his diaconate internship at St. Viator parish in Chicago, IL. As a deacon, he “hopes to have a taste of the beauty of administering some of the sacraments, proclaiming the Gospel, preaching the Word of God to the faithful at Mass, and ministering in charity to the people of St. Viator parish in Chicago.” Br. Mesh believes his internship will also offer him “a prayerful time to reflect on my calling to the priesthood.”

Brs. Jason Nesbit, CSV, and Moses Mesh, CSV, wait to be called forth by Bishop Jacques Berthelet, CSV.

Br. Nesbit, a native of Granite City, IL, is also completing graduate theological studies at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, IL, while serving his diaconate internship at Maternity BVM parish in Bourbonnais, IL. While reflecting on his Viatorian vocational journey, he stated, “the day of ordination was a graced moment in my life. I look forward to being present at graced moments in peoples’ lives, whether they are significant life milestones such as baptisms or marriages or funerals or in the myriad of ordinary, everyday, encounters with Christ in Word and in Sacrament.” Br. Nesbit hopes “to be used by the Lord to proclaim the Good News and to convey God’s grace in sacramental celebrations.”

Br. Mesh and Br. Nesbit, joined with a large number of other Viatorians, gathered in liturgical prayer, just two weeks later, to celebrate the perpetual profession of vows by Br. Daniel Tripamer, CSV. Surrounded by family, friends, and members of the Viatorian Community, Br. Tripamer professed the perpetual vows of poverty, chastity and obedience to God as a Cleric of St. Viator, on June 19th, 2010, during the Mass for Religious Profession at St. James Catholic Church, in Arlington Heights, IL. During his homily, Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, Provincial, spoke of Br. Tripamer’s call, the grace needed to respond to this call, and the reconciliation this call demands, echoing the themes of the selected readings for the Mass.

During the reception following the Mass, Br. Tripamer thanked those people who have walked with him on his journey, especially his family, the Viatorian Community, and his colleagues at Saint Viator High School, where he has ministered as a teacher, coach, class moderator, and advisor for the past ten years. “I wouldn’t be here today without the love and support of so many of you. You have brought me to this point, and 6

Br. Daniel Tripamer, CSV, receives the Viatorian ring, a sign of his final profession.

in doing so, you have made me a better person. For this, I will always be grateful.” A native of Las Vegas, NV, Br. Tripamer previously taught at his alma mater, Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, NV, for five years before entering the Viatorian Community.

As stated on page 3, Associates Donna and Timothy Schwarz, made their definitive commitments as Viatorian associates at a prayerful Mass celebrated by Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, in the Viatorian parish of St. Thomas More in Henderson, NV. While reading their commitment statement, Donna and Tim stated that after being associates for the past ten years, they firmly believe that

Associates Tim and Donna Schwarz

“association has created opportunities for us to grow and to contribute to the Church and to the Viatorian Community in ways that we would not have explored otherwise. And in turn, we have been rewarded far more than we have given.” Truly, the Church and the

and first vows Viatorian Community have been enriched by Donna’s and Tim’s dedicated, talented, and generous service.

On September 1, 2010, Br. Daniel Lydon, CSV, professed his first vows at a Mass for Religious Profession at which Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, presided. Br. Lydon, a former teacher and administrator at Saint Viator High School in Arlington Heights, IL, spent this previous year as a Viatorian novice. During his novitiate year, Br. Lydon studied the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience; the issues involved in living a communal, life; prayer and meditation; contemporary spirituality, and the Viatorian documents. This year of intensive study enabled Br. Lydon to more fully discern his vocation to become a Viatorian religious.

Br. Daniel Lydon, CSV, professes first vows.

Br. Lydon is currently serving the community as the director of Viatorian association and the coordinator of vocation ministry.

Looking to the future, Br. Lydon stated, “I am eager to begin my life as a Viatorian religious. Our mission is an important one – and greatly needed in today’s world. This is an exciting time to be a Viatorian.”

The Viatorian Community is enriched by the commitments of Moses, Jason, Dan, Donna, Tim and Dan as they strive to further the mission Fr. Querbes.

Michael Gosch, CSV

A warm welcome to Bill Geis The Viatorian Community welcomes Mr. William Geis as the community’s newest pre-novice. Bill was born in Hawaii and grew up in Kapa’a on the island of Kaua’i. Bill moved to the mainland during his college years and eventually settled in Las Vegas, NV. Active in St. Thomas More Catholic Community in Henderson, NV, Bill began to discern his vocation to the community several years ago.

Bill Geis helps a student with his research assignment.

Bill resides at the Saint Viator High School community residence in Arlington Heights, IL, and is serving at the school as a teaching assistant as well as in campus ministry. The principal aim of the Viatorian pre-novitiate program is to permit the candidate to experience Viatorian religious life as it is lived on a daily basis in a local community. During the pre-novitiate, Bill will be participating in a variety of specially designed formation activities such as participating in monthly weekend meetings with pre-novices from numerous other religious communities of men and women. Together they will hear professional presentations about religious life to enhance their vocational discernment, as well as sharing prayer and personal experiences that will serve as a source of mutual support. A series of Viatorian formation seminars on such topics as prayer, meditation, aspects of community life, the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, the lives of St. Viator and Fr. Louis Querbes, and the history of the Viatorian Community are also a part of the pre-novitiate experience.

Bill brings a wealth of experience to the community from his work in retail sales and in real estate. His years working with youth at St. Thomas More prepared him for his work with young people at Saint Viator High School. As Bill recently stated, "At St. Thomas More I experienced the fullness of Louis Querbes’ vision with regard to teaching young people. Now, at Saint Viator High School, I will expand that role greatly, helping teens encounter God in all that they do."

We are pleased to journey with Bill as he deepens his vocational discernment during this pre-novitiate year.

Daniel Lydon, CSV

discernment 7

Three Viatorians celebrate fifty years as vowed religious Fr. John N. Peeters, CSV, celebrates fifty years of religious life as a member of the Viatorian Community.

These past five decades have been marked by his unfailing commitment of service. As a master of language, whether it be English, French, Spanish, and even Italian, you can be sure that the master of grammar will correct any slip of the pen.

Fr. Peeters served as secretary to the provincial during the 1960’s and traveled to Rome to become secretary to the superior general during the 1970’s. After completing his seminary studies at Catholic Theological Union in 1983, he was assigned to St. Joseph parish in Springfield, IL, as parochial vicar.

From 1988 to 1993 he served as master of novices in Bogotá, Colombia. Upon returning to the States, he became parochial vicar at Maternity BVM Parish in Bourbonnais

before moving to Central America to be parochial vicar at St. Francis Xavier parish in Belize. During all those years, he attended countless international meetings in Rome acting as translator for members of the Province of Chicago. To this day he translates countless newsletters and official documents into English while still carrying out his pastoral duties.

In speaking about his ministry, he recently stated, “I must say that I never realized when I was a novice, that my projected career as a mathematics teacher would eventually be transmogrified into Latin and French. I never dreamt that my studies in French would bring me as a translator to a variety of Viatorian chapters and international meetings in Europe and in the Americas. I never imagined that my knowledge of Spanish would lead me to live and to work in Bogotá and in Belize. The Lord has indeed surprised me − pleasantly and necessarily − many times over the past half century.”

Fr. Patrick W. Render, CSV, learned about the Viatorians while a student at Spalding Institute in Peoria, IL; he entered the community right after graduation.

He has filled all the roles that express the apostolate of the Viatorian Community. During his fifty years as a Viatorian religious, he has served as priest, teacher, principal, pastor, and provincial for the Province of Chicago. He is known by many as being as a good leader and fine homilist. Today he says, “The thing that I am most aware of at this fifty year marker is how different Viatorian religious life is today than it was in 1960.

At that time Vatican II was only an announcement. We have lived through and been a part of a fascinating period of change in the congregation, in the province, in the Church, and in the world. We never could have imagined where the fifty years ahead

Viatorian assembly members discuss mission for the 21st century Over eighty professed and associate members of the Viatorian Community gathered together from July 6th to July 8th, 2010, for the annual community assembly, which always provides opportunities to renew friendships, to share Delegates Reflecting upon stories, to reflect and to Fr. Schreiter’s Presentation celebrate what it means to be a Viatorian, and, most importantly, to pray together.

More Catholic Community, in Henderson. This year’s annual Viatorian assembly was held in Las Vegas to honor the Viatorian presence there.

Each day began with prayer followed by several input sessions from the keynote speaker, Fr. Robert Schreiter, CPPS, from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, IL. His presentations offered both an overview of and a challenge for the mission of the contemporary church and, in particular, for the Viatorian Community in 2010 and beyond. He emphasized that effective evangelization requires examining our culture, demonstrating what it means to live in harmony together, and joining with those of different backgrounds to discern how God is calling all of us. Fr. Schreiter reminded everyone of the importance of a famous saying attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, “Preach at all times and, when necessary, use words.”

The Viatorians in the United States have ministry sites that are concentrated in Illinois and Nevada. They have ministered in Nevada for over fifty years, where they presently staff Guardian Angel Cathedral and St. Viator Catholic Community, in Las Vegas, and St. Thomas

Fr. Schreiter challenged the community to consciously seek where God is calling them today, to find new and bold ways to accompany others on 8

a cause for celebration... would take us. Now with anniversary hindsight, to look at those years as a single block of time is to marvel at all that has happened and how much we have changed. It has not all been without pain, but it surely has been growth (and fun!).”

Fr. Render earned a B.A. degree in English from Loyola University in Chicago, and an M.A. degree in education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He spent the first fifteen years of his career at Saint Viator High School in Arlington Heights where he served as teacher, assistant principal, and president. For the next nine years he was elected to leadership roles in the congregation, first as assistant provincial for one year and then as provincial for eight years.

From 1994 to 2001 he served as pastor at St. Joseph parish in Springfield, IL. Since 2001 he has been pastor at St. Thomas More Catholic Community in Henderson, NV.

Br. Daniel Lydon, CSV, Donna Schwarz, Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, and Tim Schwarz

Fr. John E. Van Wiel, CSV, grew up in Moline, IL, and attended Alleman High School in Rock Island, IL, where he came to know the Viatorians.

After high school, he attended St. Procopius College in Lisle, IL, before entering the Viatorian Novitiate in 1959. He holds a B.S. degree in chemistry from Loyola University, Chicago and an M.S. degree in chemistry from the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. As a lifetime student and learner, he earned a M.Ed. in school administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte to prepare himself for his roles as principal of Bishop McNamara High School in Kankakee and Alleman High School in Rock Island and as assistant administrator at Griffin High School in Springfield.

He obtained a Certificate in Religious Formation from St. Louis University in 1991

their life and on their faith journeys, to be mindful of welcoming the stranger into their midst, of making room for those who are accounted of little or no importance by mainstream, contemporary society.

to prepare for his role as vocation director and master of novices for the Viatorian Community. For the past seventeen years, he has taught chemistry at Saint Viator High School and participated in numerous Kairos retreats. Many of those years were also spent as chair of the science department. In addition to teaching, Fr. Van Wiel also celebrates weekend Mass in parishes in the Arlington Heights area of the Archdiocese of Chicago.

Reflecting on his many years of service, Fr. Van Wiel states, “I feel very blessed by the many people who have befriended me and supported me along the way of fifty years as a Viatorian. I have many wonderful memories of my years in Kankakee, Rock Island, Springfield and Arlington Heights.

I certainly have experienced the thousand fold that Jesus promised to those who leave other things to follow him.”

Like so many people, there is a side of the man that many do not know. In the case of Fr. Van Wiel, many are surprised to learn that he is a fine watercolorist and an avid fisherman.

Donald Houde, CSV

associates during evening Mass at St. Thomas More Catholic Community on July 6th. The Viatorian Community celebrated the jubilee anniversaries of ten professed Viatorians during evening Mass at Guardian Angel Cathedral on July 7th. Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, and members of the provincial council commissioned each Viatorian to “Live the Viatorian Mission” and bestowed on each a medal of St. Viator and of Fr. Louis Querbes, during an evening Mass at St. Viator Catholic Community on July 8th.

While each of the three parishes is unique due to its population, they all manifest the core Viatorian charism of enabling and promoting good liturgy, of actively enabling lay collaboration, of education of youth, and of caring outreach to the poor. At each site Viatorians are working to raise up communities of believers where the faith is lived, deepened, and celebrated.

Thomas Long, CSV

Over the course of the three afternoons and evenings, members of the assembly visited each Viatorian parish and learned about the multifaceted ministries being carried out at each site. Each presentation was followed by a tour of the parish site and a Mass in each church. Associates Donna and Tim Schwarz made their definitie commitments as Viatorian

our mission 9

In the Footsteps of Our Founder...

“An Agonizing Interlude” The Sacred Congregation relayed its “postponement” to Fr. Louis Querbes on August 3rd, 1838. The prefect of the congregation, Cardinal Sala, encouraged Fr. Querbes to write to Jean Paul Gaston de Pins, the archbishop-administrator of Lyons, France. Fr. Querbes agreed to do so. On August 6th, he wrote and asked if the archbishop would, in effect, relinquish almost all rights over the society.

There was nothing further he could do but wait and pray. Fr. Querbes understood the “postponement” of the Sacred Congregation was not a “refusal.” However, the postponement and waiting for the archbishop’s response heighted his anxiety. He wrote “my stay in Rome will be indefinitely prolonged. [It] depends upon an answer from His Excellency, the Archbishop” (Robert, “Life of Querbes” 174).

Gracious God, be forever blest for your gift in Fr. Louis Querbes, dedicated pastor in the education of youth, and in the service of sacred liturgy, and Founder of the Viatorian Community.

Another complication arose — his physical health. Fr. Louis Querbes was exhausted! Even before coming to Rome, he had “a terrible problem with gallstones” (Document Querbes #217, 26 February 1838). On August 6th, he wrote that “anxiety, as well as heat, are exacting my tribute to the Roman climate” (Bonnafous, “Louis Querbes” 108). Furthermore, he wrote to his vicar in Vourles, France, that “my health has deteriorated; an internal intestinal irritation is eating me up…” (Document Querbes #194, August 8, 1838).

His biographer, Pierre Robert, wrote: “The irritations of the intestines, from which he had been suffering for almost a month, grew worse and obliged him to remain in bed and to deprive himself of food…there were fears even for his life” (Robert 175).

To the mayor of the city of Vourles, Fr. Querbes wrote: “My activities were suspended…while I awaited a response from Lyons, and that deadly waiting time contribute[s] to wearing down the strength of my body” (Document Querbes #197, August 25, 1838).

He sought some relief in early September by spending some days at Albano, Italy, which is located in the fresher and airier hill country outside of Rome. Despite fatigue, anxiety, and illness, Fr. Querbes wrote that he was “determined to remain in Rome to the very end” (Bonnafous 107).

Father Querbes continued to wait and to pray throughout August and into September of 1838.

Leo V. Ryan, CSV

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dedication

In Memoriam – Fr. Philip Kendall, CSV Members of the Clerics of St. Viator bring different specialties to their life in the community, but Fr. Philip E. Kendall, CSV, was truly unique; he was both a talented physics teacher and a distinguished canon lawyer.

Fr. John Milton, CSV, followed Fr. Kendall to Saint Viator High School, where he took over as physics teacher.“I walked into a fully equipped laboratory,” Fr. Milton says. “Fr. Kendall had set up the school’s first physics labs, outfitting them with marvelous instruments.”

Fr. Kendall served as the presiding judge, or Judicial Vicar, in the marriage tribunal office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City, KS, for more than thirty years. He died on Sunday, June 20th, 2010 at the age of 77. “I am grateful to Fr. Kendall for his many years of distinguished service to the priests and people of the Archdiocese of Kansas City,” said Archbishop Joseph Naumann. “He was respected for his knowledge of the law and loved for his compassion in its application.”

After one year at Saint Viator High School, the community asked Fr. Kendall if he would earn another advanced degree, this time in canon [church] law, in order to fill a teaching vacancy in the Viatorian Seminary in Washington, DC.

By all accounts, Fr. Kendall was headed to a long and distinguished teaching career when he entered the Viatorian Community in 1954 after earning a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Fournier Institute in Lemont, IL. As a Viatorian, he went on to earn another bachelor’s degree in physics from Loyola University in Chicago and a master’s degree in physics from Northwestern University with a concentration in nuclear physics.

“That was the kind of person he was,” Fr. Milton adds. “They needed someone, and he went.”

Fr. Kendall earned a doctorate in canon law from the Catholic University of America and he taught canon law courses at the Viatorian Seminary in Washington, DC, for nearly ten years, from 1963 to 1972. “He was an excellent teacher, his students worshipped him,” says Fr. John Linnan, CSV, another colleague who had taught at the Viatorian Seminary. “He had to be. Canon law can be as dull as dishwater.”

Fr. Charles Bolser, CSV, former Viatorian provincial and current pastor of St. Viator parish in Chicago, remembers studying under Fr. Kendall in the seminary. “What made him different was that he knew how to use canon law for the good of people,” Fr. Bolser says. “He was always very kind and had a human touch.”

From Washington, Fr. Kendall accepted a role in the chancery office in the Archdiocese of Kansas City, KS, where he served for the next 33 years. Colleagues in the tribunal office say he oversaw up to 300 annulments a year as well as processing requests from priests to be

Early in his seminary studies, however, Fr. Kendall faced physical adversity. While he was in his 20s, he was diagnosed with cancer and ultimately lost a leg to the disease. His treatment and rehabilitation with a prosthetic limb interrupted his studies by a year, but his Viatorian brothers say that Phil returned as committed as ever to his calling.

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laicized, and interpreting questions of canon law for diocese officials.

Marilyn Mulcahy, a lay Viatorian associate from Kankakee, reconnected with Fr. Kendall each summer when he faithfully returned for the community’s assembly. Recently, she asked him if he ever tired of hearing so many bitter annulments. “It may be my 20th case of the week,” Fr. Kendall responded, “but I always try to remember, it is their only one. And then I am re-energized.”

Fr. Kendall retired in 2005 and his departure drew a long profile and tribute in “The Leaven Catholic Newspaper” in Kansas City. “To many in the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Fr. Kendall was a legend,” wrote staff writer Joe Bollig. “For 33 years, he balanced the letter of the law with compassion. He never led a parish, but he was quite pastoral.”

Fr. Thomas R. von Behren, CSV, Provincial, describes Fr. Kendall as an advocate for persons seeking annulments. “He wanted to remove any roadblocks, and see the process through smoothly,” Fr. von Behren says.

Co-workers in the tribunal office of Kansas City concur: “By the time it gets to us, the marriages are over,” says Lucy Davis, tribunal office manager. “Fr. Kendall was always very compassionate and caring. He wanted to advance the healing process and bring people back to the Church.”

One of Fr. Kendall’s close friends in Kansas City, CeCe Muder, says her own story reflects his ability to heal people. “When I met him, I was in a deep spiritual hole,” Muder says, “but he pulled me up. He did that for everyone he met. He always pointed people to Christ.”

Visitation for Fr. Kendall took place on Wednesday June 23rd, 2010. Archbishop Naumann, with Fr. Thomas R. von Behren, CSV, and over 30 archdiocesan priests, celebrated the Mass of Christian Burial at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, KS. We will miss him.

Eileen Daday

Two Viatorians participated in a delegation to Colombia to study the impact of industrialization In early August, Br. Carlos Eduardo Diaz, CSV, Fr. Thomas E. Long, CSV, and Erin Cox, the Viatorian representative at the 8th Day Center for Justice, along with seven other people, visited the Caribbean Coast region of Colombia, South America, to talk with the locals who are directly impacted by the multinational coal companies and multinational fruit growers. The organization, called “Witness for Peace,” coordinated this ten day trip, which included talking with people at union halls, at community centers, in corporate offices, at banana packing centers, and in local towns and villages. In listening to the testimonies of the local people, the one theme to emerge and that needs to be confronted is the devastating impact to the local population made by the policies and by the “de facto” business practices of these multinational corporations.

home less fish to sell. Furthermore, many lost their harborside homes to industrialization and have been forced to move to whatever vacant land they can find.

We also had the opportunity to talk with representatives of the banana industry and with the local population. The banana industry in Latin American extends back over 100 years with the huge multinational conglomerate, United Fruit Company. It had extensive and exploitative holdings throughout Central and South America and has left bitter memories. One example of its power, influence, and exploitation occurred in 1954; in that year, the United Fruit Company was instrumental in overthrowing the duly

The area is rich in coal and for the multinational coal companies this has been an economic boon. However, for the local population, the social, ecological, and health consequences have been crippling.

Small farmers have been displaced from their homes and are in “resettlement” villages that lack infrastructure. The “resettled” villagers’ prospects are bleak because their land is gone [hence, the key source of their livelihood, security, and stability] and potential employment opportunities are located far from the villages.

The companies have bought portions of the railroad to ship the coal to the Santa Marta harbor and, as the lengthy trains of uncovered coal cars rumble through the towns daily, they are spewing out a constant stream of coal dust. This environmental negligence contaminates the soil and crops, and causes respiratory and skin problems to the local population. When the coal reaches the port, it is first loaded onto a large conveyor belt, then to a small one, and finally to a barge docked far from shore; the harbor is very shallow. As the coal is transported to the barge, it continues to be uncovered; this negligence allows the dust to contaminate the waters and this contamination has devastated the fishing industry.

Small-scale fishermen are now forced to go further out to sea because of the dwindling fish population closer to the shore.

They now have to endure more danger and hardship to bring

Sign commemorating the 60th anniversary of the massacre of banana workers that took place in Ciènaga in 1928

Worker at a Banana Processing Facility

elected Guatemalan government because the company executives perceived it as a threat to their corporate business interests. Another poignant example of such unbridled exploitation occurred in 1928.

A massive massacre of striking banana workers in the city of Ciénaga, Colombia, occurred. Even though the army carried it out, many people believed they did it under pressure from the United Fruit Company. Gabriel Garcia Marquez immortalized the killing in his classic text, One Hundred Years of Solitude.

The United Fruit Company has since gone out of existence; its current successors include Chiquita and Dole. Their 12

Erin Cox from the 8th Day Center for Justice chats with a young child whose family has been displaced.

first concern is to ensure that they have sufficient land to realize corporate profits. Toward that end, they own vast tracts of land and contract with large landowners. To ensure that the crops have an adequate water supply, the companies have used their connections to commandeer the water from various rivers, depriving the small farmer of the resources needed to live; they are, in turn, forced to sell their land at a reduced price. They are often forced to move to villages that have no electricity, potable water, sewage system, or a school system. The homes are built with whatever material is available, often using mud and sticks for the walls and corrugated

plantation buildings throughout the region were painted with the various gang colors; on the other hand, the roads were “neutral” territory that everyone could use.

In the late 1990’s, the conflict between the guerrilla groups and the self-defense forces became particularly vicious with the forces of one group going to towns and villages and accusing the residents of being enemy sympathizers. This began a series of horrific mass murders and a process of “social cleansing.” It was in this situation that the banana companies were reputed to pay “protection” money.

The money was supposedly used not only to protect their assets but also to eliminate anyone whom they considered a threat, such as union and human rights workers.

This speculation was proven to be true through an extensive investigation; in 2007, Chiquita Brands International was fined 25 million dollars for contributing more than 1.7 million dollars to the Colombian paramilitary. Unfortunately, people were not surprised at this verdict given the history of its predecessor, United Fruit Company.

Throughout the trip, people had a strong sense of hope and realized that only through working together could they effect the necessary change that respect their human rights. They were grateful that we listened to their stories and were willing to retell them. They were particularly relevant to us as U.S. citizens because many of the multinational corporations are U.S. based and we are large consumers of coal and bananas. As one person said, “The next time you eat a banana, remember the human cost that went into its production.”

The same could be said each time we turn on the lights that are powered by coal-generated electricity.

A house that uses a covering that had previously been used to cover dynamite and is saturated with chemicals that later can cause respiratory problems.

metal for the roofs. Many times they will cover the outer walls with canvas that was used to cover dynamite and is saturated with chemicals that later can cause respiratory problems.

Violence has plagued the area. Leftist guerrilla groups, such as “FARC,” operated freely in the area in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s and, in reaction to this threat, local self-defense groups, hired by the wealthy, began to emerge. They extorted money from the local population and businesses, and they staked out their territory through the use of certain colors. In an interesting twist, the

Thomas Long, CSV

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social justice

Around the Province...

2010 Saint Viator High School graduate Jonathan Metzinger recently wrote a musical piece entitled "Escapades" in honor of Fr. Louis Querbes, Founder of the Clerics of St. Viator. The composition, which was written to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the death of Fr. Querbes, was performed by the Saint Viator High School symphonic band during the Spring Arts Festival held at the school last May. Bishop J. Peter Sartain presented Br. Leo Ryan, CSV, with a plaque on May 11th in appreciation for Br. Ryan’s service as the first chairman of the reconstituted Joliet diocesan finance council 2007-2010.

Several 2010 high school graduates joined Viatorian associates, brothers, and priests on May 26th for the third annual student ministry leader retreat at the Viatorian Province Center in Arlington Heights, IL.

Youth Ministry Leaders During Their Dinner Break

Student ministry leaders from St. Patrick and St. Teresa parishes in Kankakee, IL and Saint Viator High School in Arlington Heights, IL participated in presentations, small group discussions, Eucharist, and a meal which allowed them the opportunity to focus on the challenge of continuing to live their faith once they begin college in the fall.

Associate Michelle Barrie, Fr. Corey Brost, CSV, Associate Karen Cutler, Br. Daniel Lydon, CSV, and Saint Viator High School Campus Minister Tim Masterton served as facilitators for the retreat.

recognized for his commitment to the mission of the school, his active faith response to others, and his consistent commitment and dedication to the students.

On June 4th, the newly formed Illinois Coalition Against Fr. John Van Wiel, CSV Torture (ICAT), co-sponsored by the Viatorian Community, offered a panel discussion on U.S. sponsored torture. Held at DePaul University in Chicago, the timing of this educational event coincided with Torture Awareness Month and the trial of former Chicago Police Commander Jon Burge, who was being tried for perjury in connection to the torture of individuals whom he and some under his command interrogated after their arrest. The panel included Darrell Cannon, who was wrongly imprisoned for twenty-three years. He confessed to a crime he did not commit after being tortured by Burge and others. Burge was found guilty on June 28th and will be sentenced on November 5th.

St. Martin de Porres High School held its fourth annual commencement exercises on June 5th. SMdP, a Viatorian endorsed school, is part of the Cristo Rey Network of schools that offers students from low-income families a Catholic, college prep education made possible by its Hire4Ed work study program. This year’s thirty-six graduates, the fourth graduating class since the school was founded in 2004, have been accepted into thirty-five colleges and have earned $2,100,000 in scholarships.

Fr. John Van Wiel, CSV, was awarded the 2009-2010 Fr. Louis Querbes Award by his colleagues at Saint Viator High School at the annual faculty luncheon on June 2nd. The award is given to the faculty/staff member who best exemplifies the spirit and mission of the Saint Viator community. Fr. Van Wiel, a chemistry teacher, retreat participant, and former chair of the science department, was

Graduation Ceremony of St. Martin de Porres High School 14

Fr. Corey Brost, CSV, Br. Michael Gosch, CSV, and Br. Rob Robertson, CSV, joined with several others at the office of U.S. Congressman Mark Kirk on June 7th for a press conference calling on him to work for comprehensive

immigration reform. For over a year, a number of his constituents have requested meetings with him both in Illinois and Washington, D.C. Several months ago, a scheduled meeting was cancelled and follow-up requests have been ignored.

viatorian charism

On June 16th, the Provincial Council of the Clerics of St. Viator added its name to a complaint that was filed with Advocating for Comprehensive the Office for Human Immigration Reform Research Protections (OHRP) in the Department of Health and Human Services. The complaint asks the OHRP to investigate allegations that the “CIA’s Office of Medical Services (OMS) conducted research and experimentation on detainees in U.S. custody and, in the process, likely violated federal regulations governing human subjects carried out by United States Government entities.” For additional information, please visit www.phrtorturepapers.org.

Associates Cathy and Don Abrahamian coordinated Saint Viator High School’s participation in the Arlington Heights, Illinois Relay for Life held June 18th-19th. The twelve hour event raised awareness and money for cancer research and assistance for families affected by cancer.

SVHS’s team of 106 students raised over $13,000 for the American Cancer Society.

On June 20th Br. Gustavo Lopez, CSV, received the ministry of acolyte during Mass at the Viatorian Province Center in Arlington Heights during which Fr. Mark Fr. Mark Francis, CSV, and Br. Gustavo Lopez, CSV Francis, CSV, presided. The ministry of lector, which Br. Lopez received last year, and the ministry of acolyte are required for of all persons seeking ordination to the priesthood.

Br. John Eustice, CSV, and Fr. Christopher Glancy, CSV, with liturgical, social, and youth ministry. John is writing a blog based on his experiences which can be found at www.viatorianservicecorps.blogspot.com.

At its August meeting, the Provincial Council of the Clerics of St. Viator of the Province of Chicago added their names to two national letters that address issues of poverty and immigration. A letter to the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform urges the protection of low income and middle income individuals/families as it tackles reducing the federal deficit. A letter to members of congress requests support of the Dream Act, which provides “a path to legal status for individuals brought to the U.S. as children.” Both letters may be read on the What’s New page at www.viatorians.com.

Viatorians gather at Queen of Heaven Cemetery for the prayer service.

As is their custom, Viatorians in the Midwest gathered at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, IL and Maternity BVM Cemetery in Bourbonnais, IL to honor those Viatorians who are buried there.

This annual pilgrimage affords members of the community the opportunity to reflect on the many blessings of those who came before and to give thanks for the rich legacy they leave behind them.

Michael Gosch, CSV Viator is published three times a year by theMichael Office of Mission Gosch, CSV Advancement for the Clerics of St. Viator, Province of Chicago.

Br. Lopez, who is studying for the priesthood in Bogotá, Colombia, spent three weeks practicing English and visiting the province in June and July.

2005 Saint Viator High School graduate John Leahy began a ten month volunteer stint with the Viatorian Community in Belize, Central America on August 10th. John, who has agreed to pilot the Viatorian Service Corps, volunteers at St. Francis Xavier parish where he assists

Email: news@viatorians.com Website: www.viatorians.com

Fr. Thomas R. von Behren, CSV Br. Michael T. Gosch, CSV Br. Donald P. Houde, CSV Fr. Thomas G. Kass, CSV Br. Leo V. Ryan, CSV

Provincial:

Contributing Journalist:

Fr. Thomas R. von Behren, CSV

Eileen O’Grady Daday

Editor:

Layout and Design:

Fr. Thomas E. Long, CSV

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Newsletter – Fall 2010 Viator is published three times a year by the Office of Mission Advancement for the Clerics of St. Viator, Province of Chicago.

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Provincial Perspective Every year I gather with my leadership team (the provincial council) and we “pull away” from our daily schedules and activities to spend three days together preparing for the new year. Of course, as educators, we think of the new year as starting in September, the beginning of a new school year. Once a teacher, always a teacher!

During our time together this year, we shared our thoughts and some possible responses to the current issues facing our world, our society, our Church, and our religious community. It was a wide-ranging discussion that included many of the same issues that confront each one of us every day. We spoke of the present state of our economy and the resulting increase of poverty – locally and globally; the high rate of unemployment; the immigration crisis and how to embrace those most affected; the winding down of the war in Iraq and the advancing war in Afghanistan; the growing polarization and anger within our political system; human rights violations and its effects especially in Africa, Asia, Central and South America; and the many other challenges that confront our nation and our Church.

Recognizing that it would be impossible for us to focus on every issue, the provincial council chose to identify three specific areas as priorities for the 2010-2011 academic year. These priorities will be the focus of our energies as we seek ways to offer our support and our commitment to action.

• The elimination of torture in all of its forms and in all places; • The development of programs to alleviate the suffering caused by poverty, especially as it affects young people.

These three imperatives are the priorities that we, as a leadership team, feel we can embrace and act upon. We will ask the Viatorian Community of the Province of Chicago to share in this commitment and to work proactively in promoting these social justice priorities and to get involved personally in helping our society to reach these goals.

Through this column, I reach out to each of you to pray, to reflect, and to consider joining the provincial council and the Viatorian Community in adopting these three priorities as your personal priorities as well. As Christians and Catholics, we are called to work for justice and to seek peaceful means of raising others up and of giving others hope, especially those who are suffering and most in need.

I close by thanking you for your partnership, your friendship, and your support. Because of your prayerful support, the Viatorian Community is truly blessed. Be assured of our prayers and friendship as well. I close with the words of our Founder: Adored and Loved Be Jesus.

In Saint Viator and Fr. Querbes,

These three issues are: • The adoption and passage of a fair and humane immigration policy that allows families to stay together and young people to remain in their schools with their peers;

Inside Page 2 Viatorians hosted their first annual youth congress Page 3 Tim and Donna Schwarz reflect on being Associates Page 4 DePaul University grants its “Via Sapientiae” award to Fr. John Milton, CSV Page 5 Q & A with Rita King Page 6 Viatorians recently celebrated diaconate ordinations , definitive commitments, and first vows Page 7 A warm welcome to Bill Geis Page 8 Three Viatorians celebrate fifty years as vowed religious Viatorian assembly members discuss mission for 21st century Page 10 In the Footsteps of Our Founder Page 11 In Memoriam: Fr. Philip Kendall, CSV Page 12 Two Viatorians participated in a delegation to Colombia to study the impact of industrialization Page 14 Around the province

Rev. Thomas R. von Behren, CSV Provincial 2