The Augustinians, Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova

Contents Letter from the Provincial New Ministries at Old Saint Augustine Church An Augustinian Volunteer Thanksgiving In the Footsteps of Augustine An Augustinian Jubilee Prayer to Saint Augustine Footsteps The Augustinian Family: Profile Embracing the Future In Paradisum Interested in Religious Life? Keeping Track Letter from the Provincial Dear Friend, Augustine was born on November 13, 354, and the Augustinian family recently celebrated the 1650th anniversary of his birth. In celebration of this Augustinian Jubilee, I traveled with my brother Augustinians on a pilgrimage to Augustine’s homeland in North Africa. To stand where Augustine stood and to pray where Augustine prayed was nothing short of inspiring. Being able to witness the true roots of the Order of Saint Augustine by walking in his footsteps was remarkable. I often wonder what Augustine would think if he were alive today — if he could see just how far reaching and how deep his roots have grown. I look around our Province and I know what he would think. He’d be proud. Walking through Old City Philadelphia, perhaps Augustine would notice the church with a similar name and walk into Saint Augustine Church. There he would discover his spirituality in action. He’d see young men and women living together in community and serving those in need as Augustinian Volunteers. He’d see Jack Deegan, O.S.A., working daily on behalf of the poor as Director of Justice and Peace for the Province. He’d find Paul Morrissey, O.S.A., tending to the spiritual well-being of people from all walks of life. And if he looked quickly enough, he’d spot Joe Mostardi, O.S.A., busy building the parish community of Saint Augustine Parish. Perhaps touched by his visit to Saint Augustine Church, Augustine might sit down and talk with some of the friars. He’d find in them some kindred spirits. People like the beloved Tom Purcell, O.S.A., who brought Augustine’s legacy to Japan in 1952 and ministered there until God called him home on November 27, 2004. He’d find young men like Keith Hollis, O.S.A., who is filled with the same passion and fire for his work that Augustine had within his own heart. Maybe Augustine would hop on the Schuylkill Expressway and make his way from Philadelphia to Villanova. He might stop in at Saint Thomas of Villanova Monastery on the Villanova University campus — and perhaps he’d decide to stay. Seeing his way of life take root in the architecture of a building, he might think, “This feels like home.” If it feels like home, it is because Augustine’s legacy of a community journeying together in love thrives still today. Indeed, Augustine would be proud by what he’d find throughout the Province. I know I certainly am. Read on, then, for I am confident you will feel the same. You’ll discover Augustine’s legacy and spirituality in action, and perhaps you’ll be compelled to join us on the journey. Yours in Saint Augustine, Donald F. Reilly, O.S.A. Prior Provincial New Ministries at Old Saint Augustine Church When Irish friar Matthew Carr, O.S.A., arrived in the United States in 1776, he founded the first Augustinian church in the United States — Saint Augustine Church in Philadelphia, PA. As the foundation church for the Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova, Saint Augustine Church is a source of pride and inspiration for today’s friars. Father Joseph Mostardi, O.S.A., took the helm of Saint Augustine Church as pastor just one year ago, but in that short time much has been accomplished. Like Father Joe, and certainly in no small part due to him, a sense of excitement and energy now permeate the parish. Located in the Old City section of Philadelphia, Saint Augustine Church is beginning to see its presence in the community strengthen. Though the Province’s oldest church, it is now home to some of the Province’s newest ministries . . . Augustinian Volunteers During the past year, the headquarters for the highly successful Augustinian Volunteers program moved from the Provincial Offices in Villanova to Saint Augustine’s. The program, which at the end of the current 2004-05 volunteer year will have 88 alumni, gives young men and women the opportunity to spend a year of their lives in service of others. More than that, though, the program gives these men and women the opportunity to discover themselves, others and God in a truly Augustinian way. Augustinian Volunteers live together in a community setting, sharing meals and prayer time when they are not busy working in their individual ministries. Each volunteer community is also affiliated with an Augustinian community, and so the volunteers also share in the life of the Augustinians. It is a truly Augustinian formula, and it’s what makes the program such a success. This year’s group of Augustinian Volunteers — 23 in all— minister in sites throughout the country. Peru and Philadelphia were added to the list of sites this year, joining already established volunteer communities in Lawrence, MA; Bronx, NY; Chicago, IL; and San Diego, CA. Living in the new Philadelphia site are volunteers Carrie Neff, Matthew Nespoli and Amy Phelps. Carrie, a 2nd-year volunteer, and Matthew are both Villanova University graduates, and Amy is a graduate of Merrimack College. Like all Augustinian Volunteers, they spend their days in a ministry tailored to their interests. For Carrie Neff, that mean working in special education as an aid at both St. Edmund Children’s Home in Rosemont, PA, and the Don Guanella School in Springfield, PA. For Amy Phelps, it means helping runaway teens at the Covenant House homeless shelter. Matt Nespoli, meanwhile, spends his days implimenting a comprehensive plan he has designed to install 50 purified water systems in the impoverished region of Waslala, Nicaragua. Through this program, dubbed “Water for Waslala,” Matt hopes to raise $100,000.00 for the water systems while at the same time educating and inspiring young people to work for social justice (visit www.waterforwaslala.org for details). These volunteers have varied and diverse ministries, but each day ends together in community at their new Philadelphia home. A.D.R.O.P. Also finding a new home at Saint Augustine’s is a new social justice initiative spearheaded by Father Jack Deegan, O.S.A. The program, “Augustinian Defenders of the Rights of the Poor,” dovetails with Father Deegan’s work as Justice and Peace Director for the Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova. A.D.R.O.P. has a threefold mission, seeking: to advocate for and collaborate with the poor and those without a voice in society; to educate the decision makers, service providers and the recipients of services; and to create retreat opportunities for all to reflect and meditate on the human condition. It is a broad initiative, but Father Deegan sees great potential in the design of the program, which concentrates on building bridges between those in the community who have fallen through the cracks and those have the ability and desire to lend a hand. To that end, much of A.D.R.O.P.’s initial work has been to create relationships between Augustinian ministries and the surrounding communities. Just getting started out, the program is currently concentrated in Philadelphia, where the Augustinians run two parishes in addition to Saint Augustine’s: Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Parish and the National Shrine of Saint Rita, both in South Philadelphia. This relationship-building is bringing together the greater Augustinian community in an effort to help those in society who have no voice. For example, A.D.R.O.P. now sponsors and promotes a variety of volunteer opportunities that will link volunteers from Villanova University and surrounding parishes with those in need in the Philadelphia region. A.D.R.O.P. has the potential to fill in the gaps in the fight against poverty through its unique design. It communicates and collaborates with agencies, institutions and persons who already provide social services; will collaborate with Villanova University’s “Institute on Poverty” to identify the face of poverty in the region and investigate what services are not being provided; will match resources already available with those in need and help create resources where services do not exist; will educate those who have the ability to influence policy development and can advocate for the poor; and will spearhead skill development and general education for those in need. The work of A.D.R.O.P. is both comprehensive and bold. Once established in the Philadelphia region, Father Deegan hopes to take this program and impliment it in regions throughout the Province. Spiritual Life Center In 2004, after nearly 12 years as head of the Austin Center for Counseling in New Rochelle, NY, Father Paul Morrisey, O.S.A., has brought his unique mix of counseling and spirituality to Philadelphia. Based out of Saint Augustine’s, Father Paul continues his work at the “Spiritual Life Center.” With a doctoral degree in spiritual direction, Father Paul offers a diverse mix of programs and workshops not only to the local Philadelphia community, but to the greater region as well. Among the programs offered are an Augustinian spirituality workshop for parishes, pastoral staff, religious and clergy groups; a spiritual wellness course; a psychospiritual therapy group; bereavement and other support groups; retreats and days of reflection; and more. In addition, Father Paul offers spiritual direction and other programs for the general public. As you can see, there’s lots going on at Saint Augustine Church. Next time you are visiting historic Philadelphia, be sure to stop by! Use the contact information below to get in touch with the Augustinians at Saint Augustine’s, or to get involved in or take advantage of any of these exciting ministries. Saint Augustine Church 243 North Lawrence Street Philadelphia, PA 19106-1195 Phone: 215.627.1838 www.st-augustinechurch.com Mass Schedule: Saturday Vigil: 5:15 P.M. Sunday: 8:00 A.M., 11:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Monday-Friday: Noon Augustinian Volunteers 259 North Lawrence Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Phone: 215.627.1316 E-mail: av@osavol.org Website: www.osavol.org Justice & Peace Office A.D.R.O.P. 259 North Lawrence Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Phone: 215.925.3566 E-mail: jp@augustinian.org Spiritual Life Center 259 North Lawrence Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Phone: 215.922.2277 E-mail: spirhealth@aol.com An Augustinian Volunteer Thanksgiving For the second year in a row, Augustinian Volunteers spent their Thanksgiving serving guests at the Saint Nicholas of Tolentine soup kitchen in the Bronx, NY. Run by Brother Michael Duffy, O.S.A., the soup kitchen provides food, love and support to the struggling homeless. The success of this Thanksgiving gathering is a testament to the Augustinian Volunteer program and the volunteers. Gathered together in community, these volunteers see the face of God in others and through service find God in their own hearts. Augustine would be proud. Leslie Campbell, a member of the Bronx community of Augustinian Volunteers, shares her thoughts on the Tolentine Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving for many people is a time to gather with family and friends in a house full of warmth and savory smells. It is not often a time spent in the narthex of a church, where a soup kitchen was set up to serve a warm meal to those who otherwise would go without on the holiday. For ten Augustinian Volunteers, however, it was where we spent our holiday hosting the second annual St. Nicholas of Tolentine’s Soup Kitchen Thanksgiving Dinner. This past Thanksgiving, we served approximately 80 guests from the streets of the Bronx. The meal was made possible this year by the fundraising efforts of former Augustinian Volunteer Dave Lemay, who helped with the Thanksgiving feast last year while living and working in the Bronx. Now a resident in Methuen, MA, Lemay organized a Halloween party with all proceeds benefiting the Thanksgiving dinner — raising some $600 to pay for the food and other costs of the meal. Another $200 was raised from donations from other former Augustinian Volunteers. My fellow housemates and Bronx volunteers Sarah Angel, Stephanie Schmitt, Carmen Targa, and I began cooking the feast early in the week and were joined Wednesday night by our other East Coast Augustinian Volunteers. Making the drive down from Lawrence, MA, were Mary Dillon, Ryan Kisling and Lorraine Witt, while volunteers Carrie Neff, Matt Nespoli and Amy Phelps joined in the Thanksgiving reunion from Philadelphia, PA. Cooking late into the night, decorating the basement of the church and setting the tables for the following day’s feast brought a welcome reprise to being without one’s family during the holidays. Coming together for a prayer just before opening the doors at 1:00 P.M., we were reminded just how much we have to be thankful for in our lives. As we dished out in the kitchen, others served the appetizers restaurant-style to the people who found their seats amongst the tables. Soon we brought out plates filled with the turkey and Thanksgiving’s traditional trimmings. A dessert tray followed with apple and pumpkin pies and assorted cookies —and many were too full even for seconds. Throughout the day people wandered in from the various walks of life of the Bronx and it soon became one of our most memorable Thanksgivings. We might not have been surrounded by our grandparents, parents, siblings and cousins in our own childhood homes, but in a sense we were with another family, our Augustinian family. Together we prepared the meal and together we served the meal. Not only did we find a sense of community in each other, but we found a sense of community in the people of the Bronx who we were blessed and fortunate enough to have spent the holidays with. For most of us, all our other holidays will be spent with families and friends in a loving environment, but for many of the people we served that Thursday, some might never know the joys we feel each Thanksgiving. Even providing a few hours of a happy holiday made us all realize that we were in the right place on that particular Thanksgiving. As we sat down to our own feast after all the guests had left, the look on everyone’s face left little doubt that the food, and the day, were every bit a success. In the Footsteps of Augustine In celebration of the 1650th anniversary of the birth of Saint Augustine, friars from around the Order traveled together to Augustine’s homeland of North Africa. Here Father Al Ellis, O.S.A., shares his reflections from the unforgettable journey. Augustinians from twelve different countries have come together for this “roots” experience of our Augustinian heritage. George Berthold and I met our traveling Augustinians in Madrid where Art Purcaro issued our tickets. Soon, we were boarding our plane for Tunis in late afternoon. Our evening’s journey ended at the Hotel Diplomat at 11:00 P.M., too late for dinner, tired and ready for a good night’s sleep, as we were to start early the next morning for a personal experience of the landscape walked by heroic men and women who stood tall in adversity and shaped the thinking of civilizations. September 21, 2004 We are on our way to the amphitheatre in Carthage where Saints Felicity and Perpetua were martyred. We lingered there for some time as it was the first time many of us walked on hallowed ground soaked in the blood of our courageous Christian ancestors. We viewed centuries of ruins overlooking the Mediterranean Bay at Carthage, where still in evidence is the Roman determination to render the landscape unfit by salting it, and Carthage, once and for all, never to rise again as a threat to the Roman Empire. Incidentally, it was here that the White Fathers abandoned their impressive compound. They were ordered to leave by the government in 1964. Our next stop, not far distant, brought us to the ruins which held the government-sponsored debate between Catholics and Donatists in the year 411. Augustine championed the Catholic position and won the day. Henceforth, Catholics are recognized by the State as the official Christian Church, whereas the Donatists are now to be united in one faith under Catholicism. Off to the Domus Caritatis Basilica where the Council of 397 was held and then to ruins of the Basilica of St. Cyprian where Augustine deceived Monica and set sail for Rome. Monica sheds many tears over Augustine’s deception. September 22, 2004 We are on our way to Vallis, the site Augustine delivered his famous sermon on the martyrs. Unfortunately, the rains flooded the roadway near our destination. We were not able to continue or celebrate Mass at the Franciscan Sisters of Ain Draham. When visiting the ruins of Bulla Regia, we were misdirected by our guide to the emplacement of the basilica. Thanks to Bob Prevost, we were directed to the authentic ruins of the Basilica just before the bus was to leave the site. This is the church where Augustine delivered his famous Bulla Fratres sermon. Many of us hurried off the bus to visit the authentic site, lingered a bit and grateful to have found the exact spot amongst these ruins where Augustine impacted his people and the Christian World. Baptismal fonts in this period were constructed several feet below ground level. The candidate would descend stairs from the West, further descending several steps into the baptismal font and then continue up and out of the water to ascend another set of steps pointing East. September 23, 2004 This is a day of waiting at the borders of Tunisia and Algeria where documents are scrutinized before leaving and entering. From this time onwards and until we leave the borders of Algeria, a police escort accompanies us wherever we go. Safety was a consideration and I believe, the notoriety of pilgrims from around the world who wish to visit their country because of its historical and religious importance. Today’s visit to Hippo, the seat of Augustine’s diocese and the remains of his Cathedral Church, is a high point in our stepping back in time. We’re actually here! As we were being led into the ruins, our first stop is at the baptistery, possibly forty or fifty feet from the cathedral ruins. We linger for quite some time reflecting on the privilege of walking where Augustine walked in times past, where he preached the Word, scripted volumes and ministered to his people burdened with issues of the day. Need I mention that cameras were shuttering furiously and guess where the most popular spot was? The center of the apse where Augustine himself may very well have sat and instructed his fledgling faithful. Our bus takes us closer to the Basilica of St. Augustine, an imposing structure, prominently overlooking the city of Annaba (New Hippo). We are told that the bus cannot navigate the road to the basilica as it is too narrow, so we start the trek up the hill the good ole fashioned way, step by step. Although I didn’t count the stairs, I venture to say there were at least 200 if not 300 steps to the basilica entrance. We catch our breath and are shown hospitality by two young Maltese Augustinians. After light refreshment, our hosts give us a tour of this impressive basilica which has on display a first class relic of Augustine located in the apse of the basilica. The lovely stained glass windows depict significant events in Augustine’s life. For the first time in my life I saw a statue of St. Rita in a white habit. A statue of the Blessed Mother and Jesus in the sanctuary is a single piece, carved out of olive wood, and the altar of celebration is a 200-year-old wooden Berber chest, peculiar to Monica’s hometown. The pastor wanted to have a Monica connection in the sanctuary. Our day ended with a spirit-filled liturgy of praise and thanksgiving, celebrated by our Father General, Bob Prevost. September 24, 2004 We’re off to Augustine’s hometown of Thagaste, present day Souk Ahras, Algeria. The bus pulls off to the side of the road on a steep incline. We disembark and are ushered into a courtyard filled with lively music to greet us on our arrival and are soon encouraged to enter close quarters where guests are customarily greeted. After some time in an open area, we are ushered up a set of stairs and into a circular shrine built by civil authorities with marble plaques on its walls. One wall displays the names of Monica, Patricius, Navigius and Adeodatus. The opposite wall contains plaques to Alypius, Possidius, Evodius, Valerius. . . Another wall has the names of other figures: Melania, Pinian and Albina, supposed martyrs; however, this does not appear to be accurate. Outside and into a modest courtyard is a mosaic of Augustine donated by former pilgrims from Tenerife in the Canary Islands. It was crafted by local artisans in natural mosaic colors, the height of which is approximately ten feet. In this courtyard is an olive tree, reputed to have been planted there by Augustine, in memory of his father. One story has Monica shedding many tears over the death of Patricius. I did witness some memento seekers separating a tip of a branch from this legend-tree, and my confession is to have been amongst them. From here we are invited by the mayor and city officials to an upper room in the town hall. We are addressed formally, in the custom of dignitaries in gratitude and welcome for our visit. Bob Prevost responded eloquently and graciously on the city’s warm hospitality. Madaura is our next stop, which may have had 50,000 inhabitants at one time. Patricius sends Augustine here for schooling until such time as Augustine attracts a patron for his education. The site was actually closed; however, our guide verified the importance of our visit to the superintendent who allowed us free reign. A box lunch awaited us on the bus. Another very long wait at the Algerian/Tunisian borders was in store for us; cir. five hours. All was not in order with some visas. A piece of trivia shall end these recollections on our last day of touring, when we finally had an opportunity for two hours of shopping. If you like to dicker with shopkeepers, this was the place to be. We have a Saturday Vigil Mass at the hotel, followed by a delicious meal. We’re up at 4:00 the next morning for a 5:00 bus ride to the airport and back to our respective destinations. My luggage is still missing . . . Take an online tour of this journey here. An Augustinian Jubilee Celebrating the 1650th Anniversary of Augustine's Birth Saint Augustine of Hippo was born on November 13, 354. This past November marked the 1650th anniversary of the birth of Saint Augustine. It was the beginning of a 3-year Augustinian Jubilee celebration for the Order of Saint Augustine. 2005 marks the 700th anniversary of the death of Saint Nicholas of Tolentine, the first Augustinian saint to be canonized. Then, in 2006, the Augustinians will celebrate the 750th anniversary of the Grand Union of the Order, which was brought about by the papel bull Licet Ecclesiae of Pope Alexander IV in 1256. Throughout November the extended Augustinian family came together in celebration of the 1650th anniversary of Saint Augustine’s birth. Some of the highlights from the jubilee celebrations are described here. Philadelphia, PA On November 13, Augustinians, friends and parishioners of Saint Augustine Church in Philadelphia, PA, gathered for a special Mass and affiliation ceremony. In addition to celebrating the Augustinian jubilee, two lifelong parishioners of Saint Augustine Parish were affiliated to the Order: Edna and Albera Planster. Edna and Alberta have been members of Saint Augustine Parish their entire lives. Both in their 80s, Edna and Alberta live directly behind Saint Augustine Church and attended the school at Saint Augustine. They have been involved in countless parish activities over the years and continue to be regulars at various parish functions. Edna was the cook for the friars for many years and they both served on various parish committees. Congratulations! North Andover, MA Father Jim Wenzel, O.S.A., presided at a Eucharistic celebration for the Merrimack community on November 13 in Austin Hall Chapel. Following Mass, a candlelight reception — complete with a birthday cake — was held in Austin Hall. Over 50 people attended, including faculty, staff, administration, students, and family and friends of friars. London A service of thanksgiving for the 1650th anniversary of Augustine’s birth was held at Saint Augustine Church in Hammersmith, London. Dr. Rowan Williams — Archbishop of Canterbury, head of the Anglican Communion worldwide, and renouned Augustine scholar — was the main speaker. Many orders and congregations following the Rule of Saint Augustine gathered for the rare event. Prague Father Bill Faix, O.S.A., ministers to the English-speaking community at Saint Thomas Church in Prague. The 776-year-old church, which once served as the Royal Court Parish, was the site of jubilee celebrations in Prague. Many congregations associated with Augustine and his Rule gathered for celebrations at Saint Thomas Church. On November 13, Bishop Ladislav Hucko, the Apostolic Exarch of Byzantine Rite Catholics, celebrated a Pontifical Mass of Thanksgiving, marking the completion of a major three-year-long renovation to St. Thomas Church. The bishop solemnly rededicated the church during the celebration. The relics of Saint Augustine, which were brought to Prague for the celebrations, were then displayed throughout the Czech Republic and venerated by religious orders and congregations of various denominations. Italy The Italian Province, in coordination with the General Curia, organized a week filled with religious and cultural activities in Rome to celebrate the jubilee. The celebration in Rome began with the arrival of the relics of Saint Augustine from Pavia on November 8. The relics were displayed near the relics of Saint Monica at the Basilica of Saint Augustine. Father Robert Prevost, O.S.A., Prior General of the Order of Saint Augustine, was joined by the head of both the Augustinian Recollects and the Discalced Augustinians for a special Eucharistic celebration inaugurating the jubilee events. On November 11, the relics were transferred to the Augustinianum, the Augustinian Patristic Institute in Rome. During a special celebration at the Augustinianum, the institute’s Aula Magna, or “great hall,” was dedicated to Father Agostino Trapé, O.S.A., founder of the Augustinianum. On the evening of November 11, the relics were carried by a small delegation of Augustinians to the private chapel of the Papal apartment, where they were received by Pope John Paul II. When he received the relics in his private chapel, the Holy Father recollected himself in silent prayer for a long time before the urn containing Augustine’s remains, which were left in the Apostolic Palace for one night. While the Pope was at prayer, a torchlight procession of young people left Saint Agnes Church in Piazza Navona and proceeded to the Basilica of Saint Augustine. There they held a prayer vigil and meditated on the Eucharist and on Augustine’s writings. The relics were later taken to Ostia, where Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger presided over a solemn Mass and closing ceremonies in the Basilica of St. Aurea on November 14. Prayer to Saint Augustine These words were written by Pope John Paul II on the occasion of receiving the relics of Augustine during the jubilee celebrations. Great Augustine, our father and teacher, knowledgeable in the luminous ways of God and also in the tortuous paths of men; we admire the wonders that divine grace wrought in you, making you a passionate witness of truth and goodness, at the service of brothers. At the beginning of the new millennium marked by the cross of Christ, teach us to read history in the light of Divine Providence, which guides events toward the definitive encounter with the Father. Direct us toward peaceful ends, nourishing in our hearts your own longing for those values on which it is possible to build, with the strength that comes from God, the ‘city’ made to the measure of man. May the profound doctrine, that with loving and patient study you drew from the ever living sources of Scripture, enlighten all those tempted today by alienating illusions. Give them the courage to undertake the path toward that ‘interior man’ where the One awaits who alone can give peace to our restless hearts. Many of our contemporaries seem to have lost the hope of being able to reach — amid the numerous opposing ideologies — the truth, of which their innermost being still keeps a burning nostalgia. Teach them to never cease in their search, in the certainty that, in the end, their effort will be rewarded by the satisfying encounter with the supreme Truth who is source of all created truth. Finally, St. Augustine, transmit to us also a spark of that ardent love for the Church, the Catholic Mother of the Saints, which sustained and animated the toils of your long ministry. Have us, walking together under the guidance of legitimate Pastors, reach the glory of the heavenly Homeland, where, with all the Saints, we will be able to join the new canticle of the everlasting alleluia. Amen. Find this prayer, and other prayers to Augustine and Augustinian saints, in the Augustinian Spirituality section of our website. Footsteps News and Notes from the Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova and the Augustinian Order. Retreat Opportunities at Living Waters Living Waters Catholic Reflection Reflection Center, an Augustinian-run retreat center at the base of the Great Smokey Mountains in Maggie Valley, NC, has published its 2005 retreat calendar. Retreats cover a wide variety of spiritual interests, including retreats themed around nature, music, holy week, Saint Augustine, and more. Access the 2005 calendar at www.catholicretreat.org or write to: Living Waters Catholic Reflection Center, 103 Living Waters Lane, Maggie Valley, NC 28751. Workshop Develops Hispanic Leaders for OSA Parishes Augustinian Leadership: The Power to Serve, a workshop conducted in Washington, DC, last August by the organization “Augustinians in Hispanic Ministry,” trained 16 lay leaders of Augustinian parishes serving Hispanic communities. Led by six friars from the three U.S. Provinces and two lay people, the workshop developed participants’ leadership skills. Organizers hope that participants will in turn train additional lay leaders in their parishes. Based on a course developed by the National Catholic Council for Hispanic Ministry, this workshop also included elements of Augustinian spirituality. Intermediate General Chapter In September, Father Donald Reilly, O.S.A., Prior Provincial, and Father Masaki Imada, O.S.A., Vicar Provincial of the Japan Vicariate, joined Augustinian provincials and other friars from all over the world for the Intermediate General Chapter of the Order in Madrid. This intermediate gathering provides a chance for friars to come together to discuss priorities, share resources, and work on tasks outlined for the Order at the 2001 General Chapter. One of the major tasks of the delegation was working on revisions to the Constitutions of the Order, the official “handbook” that guides the way of life and operation of the Augustinians. The friars at the chapter emphasized the need of the Order to include in the Constitutions the involvement with the laity in common prayer life. Other initiatives undertaken at the chapter included the launch of a project to re-house the Curia archives, and the rededication of the Order to keeping an Augustinian presence in Hippo, current-day Algeria. Mission Associates Luncheon a Success The annual Augustinian Missions Associates Luncheon was held in late September at the Drexelbrook Banquet Facility in Drexel Hill, PA. The event was a great success, with some 150 friends of the missions in attendance. Over $10,000.00 was raised at the event for the Augustinian missions in Peru, Japan and South Africa. “Father Flynn Field” at Malvern A new soccer and lacrosse field at Malvern Prep was dedicated this past fall to Father Jim Flynn, O.S.A. Father Flynn first taught at Malvern from 1973-80, then returned in 1988, where he has ministered ever since. In addition to teaching, Father Flynn currently serves as Assistant Head of School and Middle School Dean at Malvern. A special blessing and dedication ceremony for “Father Flynn Field” was held in October. Prior Provincial Receives Alumni Award The Washington Theological Union has chosen to award Father Donld Reilly, O.S.A., with its first annual “Robert P. Waznak, S.S., Alumni Excellence in Ministry Award.” The award is given to a Christ-centered and Spirit-filled person who embodies a collaborative spirit of ministry; fosters leadership among the people of God; approaches ministry with an innovative and imaginative spirit; and reaches out to marginalized persons. Father Reilly, who received his masters degree in divinity from the W.T.U. in 1974, was honored with the award at the W.T.U.’s annual Founders Day this fall. 50th Anniversary of Nagasaki Parish The Vicariate of Japan gathered in Nagasaki for a week in October for its annual meeting. The gathering concluded on October 16 with a wonderful 50th anniversary celebration of the founding of Shiroyama Parish in Nagasaki. Father Michael Hilden, O.S.A., currently serves as pastor of Shiroyama Parish. Learn About the Augustinians Think God may be calling you to the religious life? A “Day of Discernment” for those age 18-40 considering religious life/priesthood, will be held on Saturday, February 5, 2005, at Our Mother of Good Counsel Parish in Bryn Mawr, PA. In addition, a retreat for inquirers and Augustinian Associates will be held March 3-6, 2005, at Augustinian College in Washington, DC. For more information on either of these gatherings, or to learn more about the Augustinian way of life, contact Father Jim McBurney, O.S.A., Vocation Director, at 610.527.3330, ext. 284 or via e-mail at vocations@augustinian.org. Merrimack Symposium Focuses on Africa Each fall the Center for Augustinian Study and Legacy at Merrimack College holds the “Thagaste Symposium,” an annual gathering of scholars and students to discuss the life and thought of Saint Augustine on ideas and issues of interest and concern to contemporary scholars. Merrimack’s latest “Thagaste Symposium” was entitled Human, Social and Spiritual Development: Augustinian Solidarity with Africa. Augustinian speakers included Father Patrick Akinrimisi, O.S.A., Prior Provincial of the Province of Nigeria; Father Lucian Borg, O.S.A., Prior Provincial of the Malta/Algeria Province; and Father Jesús Guzman, O.S.A., the Augustinian Order’s representative for the Augustinian N.G.O. at the United Nations. The symposium provided an appropriate forum for discussion of the challenges facing Africa and the role of the Augustinians in Augustine’s homeland. In support of the Augustinian presence in Africa, Merrimack College recently formed “Augustinians Without Borders,” a partnership between Merrimack and an Augustinian-run clinic and school in Nigeria. Through the partnership, Merrimack aims to support the Mercy of God clinic in Lagos, Nigeria, which cares for AIDS patients and runs educational programs about AIDS awareness, disease prevention, and advocates behavior change. Lawrence Parishes Merge As part of an ongoing process of reconfiguration of the Archdiocese of Boston, Archbishop Sean P. O'Malley called for the merger of Asuncion de la Virgen Maria Parish and Saint Mary-Immaculate Conception Parish, both in Lawrence, MA. Saint Mary-Immaculate Conception Parish, founded by the Augustinians in 1848, was the first Catholic parish in Lawrence. The recent merger results in the formation of Saint Mary of the Assumption Parish. Father Jorge Reyes, O.S.A., now serves as pastor of the new parish, which ministers to a largely Latino congregation. Father Carlos Urbina, O.S.A., who was ordained at Saint Mary Parish on August 28 by Bishop Daniel Turley, O.S.A., Bishop of the Diocese of Chulucanas, Peru, also ministers at the newly formed parish. Augustinians of the Asia Pacific Region Gather in Japan A meeting of the Augustinians of the Asia Pacific region was held in Nagoya, Japan, at the end of October. The meeting gave the various O.S.A. circumscriptions the chance to share news and report on current concerns and projects. The Vicariate of Japan shared the need for personnel in the formation program; vocational efforts; and language training for Japanese friars to remain connected with the rest of the Order. The Japan Vicariate is also studying the possibility of establishing a more formal relationship with the Augustinian Delegation of Korea. The Augustinian Family Profile: Mr. William Hallissey "The Augustinian Family" profile is an ongoing series of conversations with members of the Augustinian family, people that live each day with an Augustinian heart. Mr. William Hallissey has such a heart. Bill is a 1960 graduate of Villanova University, and he and his wife Eileen have befriended countless friars over the years. Bill is a board member of Saint Augustine College Preparatory School in Richland, NJ. In addition to spearheading campaigns for the school, he is helping the Augustinians launch the "Embracing the Future..." initiative. To that end, he and Eileen recently funded a new campaign DVD for the Augustinians. Like the Hallissey family, the video tells the Augustinian story of friendship, support and love. Here Bill reflects on his family's relationship with the Augustinians. *When did you first encounter the Augustinians?* My brother Bob was attending Monsignor Bonner High School just as I started Villanova University. The friars at Villanova were my first introduction to the Augustinians. Looking back on your years at Villanova, do any friars stand out in your mind? Many, many Augustinians come to mind. Among them I remember Father Henry Weeks — a powerful man and a true Augustinian presence on campus — and Father John Dunne. He was a humble and enjoyable man. I remember him often times bringing his dog into class with him. They are many such fond memories. What kept you connected to the Augustinians after you graduated from Villanova? I maintained my relationship with Villanova through alumni groups, but my real connection to the friars came when I met my wife, Eileen Tobin. Her family had practically grown up with the Augustinians. They summered in Sea Isle City, NJ, and had a place right by the old Augustinian summer house in Sea Isle. Every afternoon she and her siblings would hang out on the beach in front of the Augustinians’ place. When the seminarians would come down to the beach, they’d hang out together frolicking in the water. Wonderful friendships grew out of this time together. Father Joe Duffey was a seminarian at this time, and he quickly became a great friend to the family. He is a prince of a man and over the years has Christened, married and buried loved ones. He is a dear, valued friend and has become family to us. You are on the board of trustees at Saint Augustine College Preparatory School in Richland, NJ. How did you get involved with Saint Augustine’s? When my family moved to Vineland, NJ, our relationship to the Augustinians grew even stronger through Saint Augustine’s. Both my sons graduated from the school, and I place tremendous value on the education they received there. What specifically do you value about the education? For many years the tagline of Saint Augustine’s was “educating the Christian gentlemen,” and they certainly do just that. A story comes to mind that hits this home: A friend was in line at the grocery store and the patron in front of her was picking on the young cashier to no end. The tongue-lashing was downright nasty and unwarranted, and yet the young man said nothing and simply continued to assist the patron. When the patron left the store, my friend asked the young man where he went to school. “Saint Augustine’s,” he said. Her reply? “I knew it!” The Augustinians do a wonderful job at Saint Augustine’s, and I am proud to be associated with them. The Toscani brothers. Father Steve LaRosa. Father Paul Galetto. The friars there have become some of my dearest friends, and it is a relationship I deeply value. An Augustinian education has certainly played a significant role in your life and the lives of your family members. And in others as well. Not long ago my wife and I got together with a small group of a dozen or so couples from Villanova’s class of 1960. Eileen is truly amazed at the quality of individuals who came out of that class. Everyone in the group remembered one another from college. It may seem a little corny, but there is something to it — a community that began in college continues as a community today. The common denominators of that group were two things: the Augustinians and Villanova University. I couldn’t want more from an education, an experience or a friendship than what I have received from the Augustinians. Embracing the Future . . . It has been a busy fall for the Embracing the Future campaign, as the leadership of the campaign has hosted small campaign gatherings throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland and Washington, DC. The gatherings give the Augustinians a chance to tell their story to friends and supporters by introducing the $25 million campaign. Campaign events will be held in other regions of the Province in the coming months. The campaign seeks funds for the renovation of Saint Thomas of Villanova Monastery and for the creation of endowments for: the Augustinian Volunteers program; domestic missions and missions in Japan, South Africa and Peru; care of aging friars; and vocation, education and formation efforts of Augustinians. While the renovation of Saint Thomas of Villanova Monastery is winding down, with friars moving back into their beloved home in the coming weeks, the campaign for the Augustinians is kicking into high gear. We ask for your support and thank you for traveling with us on the journey. Campaign Goal: $25,000,000.00 Progress to Date: $8,082,312.00 Percent of Goal: 32% Find out how you can get involved in this initiative — contact: Natalie Agraz, Development Director Augustinian Provincial Offices P.O. Box 340 Villanova, PA 19085 610.527.3330 ext. 265 development@augustinian.org In Paradisum We celebrate here the lives of friars from the Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova who have made the final journey home to Christ. We remember them as friends, family and faithful companions along the journey. Thomas P. Purcell, O.S.A. Born: May 9, 1913 Profession: September 10, 1936 Ordination: May 29, 1943 Died: November 27, 2004 Thomas Patrick Purcell, son of Thomas E. Purcell and Martha (Madden) Purcell, was born on May 9, 1913, in Shamokin, Pennsylvania, and baptized in the Church of St. Edward. In 1928, he graduated from St. Edward Elementary School and then worked at A&P Supermarket until 1931, when he became a postulant at Augustinian Academy on Staten Island, New York. He graduated from Augustinian Academy in 1935 and in September of that year began his novitiate at Our Mother of Good Counsel Novitiate, New Hamburg, New York. He made his first profession of vows on September 10, 1936, and three years later professed solemn vows. In 1940, he received a B.A. degree from Villanova College, Villanova, PA. For the next four years he studied theology at Augustinian College, Washington, DC, where, in 1944, he also earned an M.A. in history at Catholic University, Washington, DC. Thomas was ordained to the priesthood on May 29, 1943, by Bishop John M. McNamara, at Trinity College Chapel, Washington, DC. Father Purcell’s first assignment was to Our Mother of Good Counsel Novitiate, where he served as Sub-Master from 1944 to 1947. In 1947, he was selected to be Assistant Chaplain at Villanova College, where he was a professor of theology and history. From 1950 to 1952, he became vice-rector at Augustinian Academy, while continuing to teach summer school at Villanova College. In 1952, Father Purcell, together with Fathers George Krupa and Edward Robinson, departed for Japan to establish the first Catholic mission in Nagasaki, after a lapse of 315 years. The parish was entitled Our Mother of Consolation, in the atom-bombed area of Shiroyama, where they also opened the first parochial school in Japan. Father Purcell served that community as Prior and Pastor until 1963. From 1963 to 1979, Father Purcell established the parish of St. Monica in the port area of Nagoya City, where 83 families, mostly working class people who came from Nagasaki, formed their own housing co-operative and built their own homes with Catholic Centers included. Father Purcell was active in the national committee for emigration of young Christian workers who came from Nagasaki to the cities of Tokyo and Nagoya. He wrote articles on Augustinian-related subjects for the new Japanese Catholic Encyclopedia. From 1980 to 1988, Father Tom served as Prior and Pastor at St. Augustine parish in Tokyo. In 1988, he returned to Shiroyama, Nagasaki, as assistant pastor of Our Mother of Consolation parish, until his health began to deteriorate. The fifty-two years Father Purcell served in the mission of Japan seemed to be fortified by the special grace and desires he expressed in 1952. Back then, he wrote to the Provincial, “Ever since I was a small lad I have had the desire to go to the missions, which may be a natural desire of one of Irish extraction, to want to spread the Faith. So you can see why the rumor that you are thinking of sending men to Japan made me happy. If you wish me to go, I shall be more than willing and happy to comply with your wishes to go to Japan.” On November 27, 2004, Father Tom, at the age of 91, passed on to the Lord, while he was a resident of St. Francis Nursing Home in Nagasaki. The principal celebrant at the Mass of Christian Burial, in the church of Our Mother of Consolation, was Joseph Mitsuaki Takami, Archbishop of Nagasaki. Share your own reflection on Fr. Purcell online with our interactive necrology - click here. Interested in Religious Life? Father Keith Hollis, O.S.A., shares with us his vocation story and his thoughts on the discernment process. Ordained just over two years, he serves as parochial vicar at Saint Thomas of Villanova Parish in Rosemont, PA. When did you first come to know the Augustinians? Saint Augustine Parish in Troy, NY, was my home parish, and as my involvement at the parish grew, it quickly became a second home for me. I loved helping out at Saint Augustine’s, whether it was as an altar server or just doing general maintenance work around the church. I enjoyed being a part of the life of the parish, and so I found myself spending a lot of time with the Augustinians. What was your impression of the friars at Troy? The Augustinians at Troy were good, down-to-earth people who you could trust with questions. They were approachable, not pompous, and because of this I knew I could always go to them for guidance. Not only were these men important father figures in my life, but they were some of my closest friends. From this, the Augustinians became close with my entire family — and these priests are still iconic in the Hollis family. All because they were approachable. This is what is most appealing to me about the Augustinians. They are approachable, down-to-earth people, and I hope others see that in me now that I am an Augustinian priest. What about your own vocation discernment? How did you know you were being called to religious life? There wasn’t one moment, but rather a slow progression of moments of grace. Reflecting on all these little moments, it became obvious that there really was no other logical choice for me. Religious life appealed to me in the fourth grade, and that feeling just grew stronger over the years. I was energized by church stuff, and loved the idea that service in a parish made a difference in someone’s life every single day. By the end of high school I was pretty certain I wanted to give this way of life a shot. It had become the only lens to see my life through that made sense. Did you ever have doubts about this decision? Sure. It’s healthy to doubt. But I see the process as one where you recognize where God is pulling you, and then have the courage to respond. Looking back on it, I saw my life as a rudder, always heading in the direction I needed to go. Sure, there were moments of questioning, but that is the wonderful thing about the formation process. I chose this life out of freedom. At some point you begin to realize, “I could be anything I want to be, but I choose this — out of freedom.” For me, the discernment process is all about having the courage to say “yes, for right now.” Then let things follow their course. That first decision to investigate religious life doesn’t mean you are making up your mind for good. Have the courage to say yes and see where God guides you. It's obvious you are passionate about your work as a parish priest. What excites you about this ministry? No day is the same. You can go from sharing in someone’s greatest thrill to someone’s greatest sadness in a matter of minutes. Small moments of ministry — like a simple conversation — can change people’s lives. My primary job as an Augustinian priest is to help people tend to their own religious life — to help them find God’s story in their own lives, helping them to see those grace-filled connections that will help them find their God. As I tend to their spiritual life, though, they tend to mine, and I find myself meeting Christ through others meeting Christ. This reciprocity in an important aspect of an Augustinian parish — to empower others on their spiritual journey, and to travel with them on the way. To learn more about a vocation with the Augustinians, please contact: Father Jim McBurney, O.S.A. Provincial Offices P.O. Box 340 Villanova, PA 19085-0340 Phone: 610.527.3330 ext. 284 E-mail: vocations@augustinian.org Keeping Track Following the vow of obedience, friars find themselves called to where they are needed. Each issue of the Augustinian Journey hopes to connect you with some familiar faces as we provide brief updates on friars serving throughout the Province. Watch here to track down that old classmate, pastor, chemistry teacher, chaplain, philosophy professor, coworker or friend. Francis J. Horn, O.S.A. For the past 11 years, Father Frank Horn was a part of the Augustinian College community in Washington, DC. During that time he earned his doctorate in canon law, and then he oversaw the graduate studies of friars in formation, while also teaching at the Washington Theological Union. This past summer, Father Horn moved to Richland, New Jersey, and joined the Augustinian community that serves Saint Augustine College Preparatory School. Father Horn ministers as Headmaster of Saint Augustine Prep, and also teaches and serves on the school’s Board of Directors. The role of headmaster is nothing new for Father Horn, who served as principal at Monsignor Bonner High School in Drexel Hill, PA, from 1979-1987. In addition to his work at Saint Augustine Prep, Father Horn, a canon lawyer, was appointed a judge on the Tribunal of the Diocese of Camden by Bishop Joseph Galante. As a Tribunal judge, Father Horn helps to adjudicate the internal legal affairs of the Catholic Church, especially marriage annulment cases. To contact Father Horn: Saint Augustine College Prep. School 611 Cedar Avenue Richland, NJ 08350-0279 Brian S. Lowery, O.S.A. 2005 marks the 725th anniversary of the Convento Sant’Agostino in San Gimignano, Italy. The convento, which dates back to 1280, is truly one of the great historic landmarks of the Augustinian Order — and Father Brian Lowery has had the privilege to minister there for the past ten years. Together with three friars, Fr. Ian Wilson from the English/Scottish Province and Fr. Girolamo Trapè from the Italian Province, plus Benedictine Fr. Nicola Vasaturo, Father Lowery and the community at San Gimignano help to ensure that the Convento Sant’Agostino is a welcoming refuge for recollection, fraternity and prayer. The community plays host to countless friars, students, lay Augustinians, pilgrims, and other groups throughout the year, giving their guests the opportunity to reflect and pray in an atmosphere of silence. The draw of San Gimignano, besides its beauty, is its closeness to the Order’s oldest roots. Because of this deep history, Father Lowery and the community at San Gimignano not only play an integral role in preserving Augustinian history, but they also find themselves an essential part of the town’s — and the Order’s — spiritual life. To contact Father Brian: Convento S. Agostino Piazza S. Agostino, 10 I-53037 San Gimignano (SI), Italy Denis G. Wilde, O.S.A. In 1998, after teaching for over 20 years at Villanova University, Father Denis Wilde began full-time ministry with Priests for Life, one of the leading pro-life organizations in the country. He is one of two Augustinian priests, including Father Walter Quinn, who work directly with Priests for Life. In his ministry with Priests for Life, Fr. Denis travels throughout the country speaking on pro-life issues, conducting “Rachel's Vineyard” retreats for those dealing with post-abortion issues, and promoting the pro-life cause through television and radio interviews. An accomplished pianist and professionally trained musician, Fr. Denis lends his musical talents to the pro-life movement by performing concerts for pro-life organizations throughout the country. When not on the road, Fr. Denis helps out at Saint Katherine of Siena Church in Philadelphia, PA. To contact Father Denis: Saint Katherine of Siena 9700 Frankford Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19114-2896