Heart to Heart Spring 2000

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Inside This Issue . . .Archabbot’s Message ...................2Archabbey News....................2, 4, 5Br. Lambert Honored.....................3Saint Benedict’s Day.....................3Baptismal Font Installed ...............5Gristmill Book............................ 6-7Father Martin .................................7Trip To China, Taiwan..................8-9New Books, Tapes, Events ........10Br. Mark ‘Storied Tradition’ .........11Jubilarians....................................12Tribute Gifts..................................13A Life of Service ..........................13Obituaries................................14-15Aerial View ...................................16Retreat Schedule .........................16

Newsletter of the Benedictines of Saint Vincent Archabbey

http://benedictine.stvincent.edu/archabbey Volume 11, Issue 3, Spring 2000300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, Pennsylvania 15650 724-532-6600

Cardinal Arinze to Dedicate Spires, Baptismal Font Francis Cardi-

nal Arinze, Presi-dent of the Pon-tifical Council for Interreligious Dia-logue and a member of the Roman Curia, the Holy Father’s direct staff, will visit Saint Vincent Archabbey and Seminary April 29 and 30. He will

Rev. Omer U. Kline, O.S.B., reviews a draft copy of his latest book.

New Book Details Historic Saint Vincent Gristmill

(Continued on Page 6)

A new 100-page softcover book details the history of the Saint Vincent Archabbey Gristmill and the former monastery brew-ery complex. The Saint Vincent Archab-bey Gristmill and Brewery, 1854-2000, was written by Rev. Omer U. Kline, O.S.B., Archabbey historian and archivist. Father Omer is also the author of The Sportsman’s Hall Parish Later Named Saint Vincent 1790-1846, published in 1990.

The book includes a 16-page color section inside with photos of the historic milling equipment, and a fold-out color schematic illustration showing how the mill works. Father Omer’s original manuscript was completed in 1992, but publication was delayed due to the

ongoing efforts to restore the Gristmill. Following successful funding of the first phase of the renovations, the manuscript

(Photo by Jack Wolf)

Francis Cardinal Arinze

be the principal celebrant and homilist of the Mass at 5 p.m. Saturday, April 29, which will include the dedication of the new Basilica spires and the blessing of the new baptismal font. The Cardinal will also give a Eucharistic Retreat during his visit. Cardinal Arinze is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Congrega-tion for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and the Pontifical Council for the Laity. He is one of the five cardinals on the presiding council of the Holy Father’s central coordination committee for the Great Jubilee Year 2000.

Volume 11, Number 3

Saint Vincent Archabbey Heart to Heart Spring 2000

Mary’s womb twenty centuries ago, continues to offer himself to humanity as the source of divine life. One thing is certain: everyone is asked to do as much as possible to ensure that the great challenge of the Year 2000 is not overlooked, for this challenge certainly involves a special grace of the Lord for the Church and for the whole of humanity.”

Saint Vincent is also pleased to welcome two special guests to the campus in May: Mister Fred M. Rogers, creator and host of Mister Rogers Neighborhood, the longest running children’s television program in the nation, and Mr. George Weigel, the author of the new biography on His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, Witness to Hope. Mister Rogers will deliver the commencement address at Saint Vincent College on Sat-urday, May 13. Mr. Weigel will deliver the Seminary’s com-mencement address on Friday, May 12.

Other events include the ordination to the diaconate of two of our Benedictines, Br. Lee Yoakam and Br. Edward Mazich, in April, and the priesthood ordination of Br. Philip M. Kanfush and Br. Matthew T. Laffey in May.

Have a blessed and joyous Easter season.Sincerely in Christ,

+ Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B.Archabbot of Saint Vincent

Father Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B., professor of New Testament at Saint Vincent Seminary, has returned to teaching after a very busy fall schedule of lectures and retreats. In early Sep-tember, he gave six lectures on Biblical Spirituality at the Hesburgh Center for Continuing Formation in Ministry in Chicago, as he has done for the past twelve years. In late September, he gave a retreat for the Maryknoll priests and brothers near White Plains, New York.

In early October, Father Demetrius gave a six-day series of lectures on John’s gospel for the Trappist commu-nity of Genesee Abbey near Rochester, New York. He reports that he did not rise with the monks at 2:15 a.m., but he did find it challenging to offer lectures at 6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. In late October, he gave ten lectures for the monks of St. Leo Abbey in Florida and, shortly thereafter, three lectures (Continued on Page 4)

Archabbot’s Message

News FromAround The Archabbey

Dear friends,At the end of April

we will welcome Francis Cardinal Arinze to our campus for the dedication of the Basilica spires and the new baptismal font.

His Eminence will also give a Eucharistic Retreat during his stay, in con-junction with the celebra-tion of the Great Jubilee Year 2000.

The central theme of the celebration of the Great Jubilee Year 2000 is the Eucharist. His Holi-ness, Pope John Paul II, has stated, “The Year 2000 will be intensely Eucharistic: in the Sacrament of the Eucharist the Saviour, who took flesh in

at Belmont Abbey, North Carolina, in preparation for their abbatial election.

In late November, Father Demetrius conducted a retreat for the monks of Prince of Peace Abbey in Oceanside, California. In early January of this year, he gave a retreat for the bishops of Region XII, comprising the states of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Montana and Idaho. He found it especially interest-ing to hear stories from the bishops who represent the three dioceses in Alaska. Archbishop Hurley of Anchorage noted that things were looking up there since they now had two hours of light each day.

* * * * *The following item is from the Catholic

Register, newspaper of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown:

“Saint Benedict Parish (in Carrolltown) inaugurated celebrations of its sesqui-centennial (150th) year with Vespers (Evening Prayer) Sunday, January 23.

“Benedictine Father Vincent E. Zidek, pastor, presided, and Archabbot Paul R. Maher, retired tenth Archabbot of Saint Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, and former parochial vicar of Saint Benedict Parish, was the homilist.

“Archabbot Paul reflected on ‘The

History of Saint Benedict Parish.’ . . . The history of Saint Benedict Parish is closely tied to the history of the Bene-dictine monks in the United States.

“At the invitation of Father Peter Lemke, the founder of Carrolltown, Benedictine Father Boniface Wimmer and 18 companions journeyed from Saint Michael Abbey in Metten, Ger-many, to America. Their mission was to bring the Benedictine order to the United States and to minister to the German-speaking immigrants who found a new home. They arrived in Carrolltown on September 30, 1846.

“Disappointed with the uncultivated land and rough and hilly roads that greeted him, Father Boniface accepted an offer from Bishop Michael O’Connor of Pittsburgh to move to Saint Vincent Parish near Latrobe. On October 16, 1846, Father Boniface departed for Saint Vincent where he established the first Benedictine monastery in the United States.

“Two years later, Father Boniface purchased 298 acres of land in Car-rolltown. He also bought the buildings Father Lemke had constructed for his own use. Having acquired this property,


Volume 11, Number 3

from the Latin, “Cor ad Cor Loquitur,”

or “Heart Speaks to Heart,” is the motto of Archabbot

Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B. It refers to the archabbot’s

prayer that giving and receiv-ing authentic love may always be the chief characteristic of the Saint Vincent monastic community. This was also the motto of Cardinal John

Newman.

This newsletter is published by the Benedictines of Saint Vincent

Archabbey.

Publisher Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki,

O.S.B.

Development DirectorWilliam P. Malloy

Writer/EditorKimberley A. Metzgar

Contributors to this issue:

Director of Public RelationsDonald A. Orlando

Public Relations AssociateTheresa Schwab

Alumni DirectorRev. Gilbert J.Burke, O.S.B.

Rev. Omer U. Kline, O.S.B.

Rev. Noel H. Rothrauff, O.S.B.

Saint Vincent Archabbey300 Fraser Purchase

Road, Latrobe, Pennsylvania 15650-2686

724-539-9761 Ext. [email protected]

http://benedictine. stvincent.edu/archabbey

Heart to HeartBr. Lambert G. Berens, O.S.B., Receives

Saint Vincent Presidential Medal of HonorA member of the Saint Vincent Archab-

bey community, Br. Lambert G. Berens, O.S.B., received a Saint Vincent College Presidential Medal of Honor as part of the Saint Vincent Founders’ Day Vespers and Honors Convocation which was held November 30, 1999.

Born in Germany in 1913, Br. Lambert joined the Saint Vincent monastic com-munity in 1952 and became an American citizen in 1959.

Br. Lambert, who was born in the former Kirchoven (now Heinsberg/Lieck), Germany, made simple profession of monastic vows on Feb. 11, 1932, at the Benedictine monastery in Ilbenstadt, Germany.

In selecting him as a recipient of a Presidential Medal of Honor, College President Fr. Martin R. Bartel, O.S.B., praised Br. Lambert for his exemplary lifestyle, and his many years of devoted service to Saint Vincent.

Fr. Martin noted that Br. Lambert has “throughout his life quietly served as a model of humble devoutness. His hard meticulous work and dedication to whatever task is assigned him, provide an example to be emulated by both Benedictine and lay colleagues alike. To those that know him well and/or work with him, he is the personification of the Benedictine motto, Ora et Labora.

(prayer and work).” As a member of the monastery, he

was in charge of the greenhouse and truck garden. He also served at Saint Benedict’s Priory, the Archabbey’s mis-sionary apostolate in Brazil. Since 1969 he has worked in the Saint Vincent Library processing and repairing books, and in his spare time he helps maintain the grounds of the Archabbey.

Presenting Br. Lambert G. Berens, O.S.B., (center) with the P residential Medal of Honor were, left, Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., and Fr. Chrysostom Schlimm, O.S.B., Librarian.

Most Rev. Daniel N. DiNardo, Bishop of Sioux City, second from left, was the homilist at the concelebrated Conventual Mass on March 21, marking the Solemnity of the Passing of Saint Benedict. Most Rev. Anthony G. Bosco, Bishop of Greensburg, third from left, was the principal celebrant at the Mass. Welcoming both bishops to the Mass were Archabbots Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., right, and Paul R. Maher, O.S.B.

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(Continued from Page 2)

News FromAround The Archabbey

Bishop O’Connor transferred the care of the Carrolltown parish to Father Boniface and the Benedictine monks. Father Peter Lechner was appointed the first prior and pastor of the newly-formed Carrolltown community. One of his first tasks was to construct a brick church. The specifications for the proposed church called for a building to be 102 feet long, 56 feet wide, and 28 feet high. The contract was awarded on March 15, 1849 at a cost of $6,700.00.

“Wanting the church to be seen by all travelers approaching Carrolltown, the building was constructed on one of the highest points in the community. With plans for the construction of the edifice well underway, Bishop O’Connor laid the cornerstone for the new structure on June 10, 1849.

“The church was dedicated in honor of Saint Benedict on Christmas Day, 1850.

“A variety of celebratory events have been planned throughout the year to mark the 150th anniversary of the church’s dedication.”

* * * * *Father Kurt J. Belsole, O.S.B.,

an Associate Professor of Theology and Monastic Studies at Saint Vincent Seminary, has been named to the

newly-created position of Assistant Rector by Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B.

* * * * * Saint Vincent Seminary Director of

Spiritual Life, Rev. Justin M. Matro, O.S.B., successfully defended his doc-toral dissertation, summa cum laude, in Rome on Dec. 6, 1999. His disserta-tion, entitled “Christian Suffering in the Spiritual Writings of Adrienne Von Speyr,” is in the process of being published. The readers of the dissertation have also recommended that it be commercially published in its entirety.

* * * * *Father Thomas P. Acklin, O.S.B.,

began an early celebration of the new mil-lennium and the Jubilee Year by making a pilgrimage to Rome in December with Father Justin M. Matro, O.S.B., Direc-

tor of Spiritual Life at Saint Vincent Seminary.

While in Rome they visited the Vatican Congregation for Education and also visited Francis Cardinal Arinze who heads the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue and who will be visiting Saint Vincent Archabbey and Seminary between April 29 and 30, 2000. The highlight of the visit was an opportunity to concelebrate Mass with Pope John Paul II.

* * * * *Three Saint Vincent Benedictines

were among seven new members named to the Saint Vincent College Board of Directors. They are the Rev. Benjamin R. Walker, O.S.B., the Rev. Frank E. Ziemkiewicz, O.S.B., and the Rev. Conan E. Feigh, O.S.B.

* * * * *Fr. Kurt J. Belsole’s article, “The

Regula Benedicti: Perspectives on Interpretation,” originally published in The American Benedictine Review, has been translated into Spanish and is being published by the Benedictine monks of the Abadía Santa Cruz in Madrid as “Perspectivas Sobre la Interpretación de la Regla de San Beníto.”

Fr. Kurt also recently published a review of “The Unread Vision: The Liturgical Movement in the United States of America: 1926-1955,” in Antiphon, the publication of the Society for Catholic Liturgy. The “Unread Vision” is the reworked doctoral dissertation of Fr. Keith Pecklers, S.J. In his book, Pecklers traces development of the U.S. liturgical movement beginning with the work of Fr. Virgil Michel, O.S.B., of Saint John’s Abbey in Collegeville, Minnesota, and concluding with the renewed rites of Holy Week in 1955. In addition, he calls for a refoundation of the liturgical movement and a retrieval of a sense of the Church as the Mystical Body of Christ.

* * * * *Fr. Mark F. X. Gruber, O.S.B., was a

research associate at the Archaeologi-cal Research Facility at the University of California, Berkeley, in the fall. Fr. Mark was also a visiting scholar at the Phoebe Hearst Museum of the University of California.

Fr. Mark was invited by the Educa-tion Committee of Temple Bethel, a reformed synagogue of Berkeley,

Father Justin M. Matro, O.S.B., left, and Father Thomas P. Acklin, O.S.B., Saint Vincent Seminary Rector, met with Francis Cardinal Arinze in Rome this past December. Cardinal Arinze will visit the Archabbey and Seminary April 29-30.


Two Saint Vincent Benedictines will be ordained to the priesthood on Saturday, May 20, by Most Rev. Anthony G. Bosco, Bishop of the Diocese of Greensburg, in the Archabbey Basilica.They are Br. Philip M. Kanfush, O.S.B., above, left, and Br. Matthew T. Laffey, O.S.B.


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In the photos, top, left, sculptor Norbert Koehn is meeting the truck as it arrives with the sections of the font. At top, right, Norbert and his assistant, Tim Riffle, are guiding the top of the font into the church. At right is the finished font with the new tile design at its base, coordinating with the original tile in the church.

Baptismal Font InstalledAt Archabbey Basilica

Cranes were not an unusual site on the Saint Vincent campus last fall during completion of the Basilica spires project. However, in late fall of 1999, a crane delicately maneuvered three pieces of the new baptismal font over the steps and up to the front doors of the Archabbey Basilica.

From there German artist Norbert Koehn and his assistant Tim Riffle guided the pieces, which weighed a total of one and a half tons, onto carts and rolled them into the back of the basilica, where they spent an intensive few days installing the font.

Norbert Koehn, who lives and works with his wife in Cleveland, Ohio, received his masters in wood sculpture at the State Woodcarving School in Oberammergau and the Academy of Munich, Germany. His wife Victoria, a Cleveland native, acquired her journeyman’s certificate from the State Woodcarving School.

The Koehns have designed all the new elements in the Church, and Norbert designed and carved the baptismal font from a three ton block of Indiana limestone. The font was designed to coordinate with the existing main columns in the Church. It was carved into three separate pieces so it could be transported. It holds 20 gallons of water.

The Koehn’s style reflects that of their teacher, Hans Schwaighofer, and his professor Josef Jenselmann. The style is that of the so-called “Munich School” of expressionism. Expressionism started around 1900 with the Brucke artists - Kirchner, Voll, Kollwitz, Barlach and their contemporaries.

To create an original sculpture, the artist must do extensive research of a subject and then make several drawings and/or clay models. Three-dimensional models are always used for sculptural carving.

Next, the wood is purchased, sawed, planed, joined and glued to size. Most of this work is done by hand. An exact replica of the model is then carved with the aid of a caliper. The finished sculpture is either left natural, treated with limestone, or pained (polychrome) and perhaps gold or silver leafed.

(Continued from Page 4)

Archabbey NewsCalifornia, to present a conference in its monthly series on November 7. He spoke on “A Radical Meaning of Monotheism Among Ancient Religions.” He used an anthropological cross-cultural analysis to explore the scriptural and special philosophical implications of the “one God” premise of Judaism.

While on sabbatical at the Archaeological Research Facility in Berkeley until the end of the fall 1999 semester, Fr. Mark was also invited to reflect on the Torah, the Talmud and Medieval Jewish philosophy, especially that of Maimonides, in the Reformed and Orthodox Temples of the San Francisco Bay area. These contacts were provided through Jewish faculty members from the University of California, Berkeley, with whom Fr. Mark is conducting archaeological research.

* * * * *Fr. William F. Wurm, O.S.B., attended the 33rd annual

American Council on Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) meeting in Dallas, Texas, November 19-21. The American Association of Teachers of German also held its annual meeting with ACTFL. He also attended the Act 101 directors’ meeting held in Hershey on Dec. 2-3.

* * * * *Br. Lee R. Yoakam, O.S.B., and Br. Edward M. Mazich,

O.S.B., will be ordained to the diaconate on Monday, April 10, by Most Rev. J. Kevin Boland, Bishop of Savannah, Georgia, in the Archabbey Basilica.

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New Book Details Gristmill, Brewery(Continued from Page 1)

Rev. Omer U. Kline, O.S.B.

The book is available at the Basilica Gift Shop, on the first floor of the Saint Vincent Parish Center, which is open from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays and from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays. It is also being sold at the Saint Vincent College Book Center, in the lower level of Kennedy Hall, open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and at the Gristmill, which is open for business from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. The book retails for $ 9.95. It is also available by mail from Archabbey Publications for an additional $1.75 shipping and handling.

Ordering Information


was updated to reflect the restoration efforts, made possible by grants from The Allegheny Foundation of Pittsburgh, The Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation of Latrobe, and The Pennsylvania Heritage Parks Program under the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. A jump-start to the second phase of this restoration was given in 1998-1999 by a grant of HUD through the Independent Agencies Appropriations Act of the U.S. Congress.

“The Gristmill was part of the vision of Saint Vincent founder Boniface Wimmer, who laid the groundwork for its construc-tion shortly after his arrival at Saint Vincent in 1846,” said Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B. “It played an important role in Saint Vincent’s history and it was also an integral part of the local agricultural community.”

“ Boniface Wimmer’s plan to build Saint Vincent involved self-sufficiency,” said Father Omer. “His objective was to set in operation a Benedictine monastery that would be modeled very closely upon the monasteries of his native Bavaria. In order to establish such a foundation, Wimmer knew that he would have to have a school, primarily for educating candidates for the priesthood. He also knew that he would be expected, not only to minister to the parishioners of Saint Vincent Parish, but also to expand missionary evangelization to an ever growing area and population. But, first and foremost, Wimmer realized that he must build on ‘Mount Saint Vincent’ a sturdy physical plant which would serve as the headquarters for the life of prayer and work that he envisioned for

his monastic foundation.”“The monks set out very soon after their

arrival to farm the land, and Wimmer kept adding new tracts of land for the purpose of growing crops, herding livestock and harvesting lumber. They worked the soil to provide all kinds of grains, fruits and vegetables for the monks and students,” Father Omer said. “So it is logical that early on Wimmer saw the need for a gristmill at Saint Vincent, to alleviate the cost and the inconvenience of having the monastery’s grains ground at a gristmill a few miles away.”

Almost parallel with the construction of the Saint Vincent Archabbey Gristmill was that of the Saint Vincent Brewery and its complex of buildings.

“The beginnings of a brewery operation at Saint Vincent were very modest in comparison with the major public issues that were made in 1849-1852 and in the 1890s concerning Saint Vincent being in the ‘beer business’,” said Father Omer. “To build this little brewery and to brew beer for consumption by the monks was not viewed as out of place by these early Saint Vincent Benedictines. In fact these hard-working monks, most of whom had emigrated from the territory around Munich, Bavaria, craved for the beer for which that area of southern Germany had long been famous. It was a time-honored practice for Bavarian monasteries to make and sell beer.”

As a result of the brewery issues, made largely by the total abstinence movement, less and less beer was brewed for public consumption. And the fate of the Saint Vincent Brewery was sealed in 1919 with the prohibition amendment to the U.S. Constitution. And except for farm storage the brewery buildings sat idle until a 1926 fire left nothing standing but brick walls and cellars.

In addition to chapters on the begin-nings of the Gristmill and on the stories of the brewery controversy, The Saint Vincent Archabbey Gristmill and Brewery, 1854-2000, also includes chapters on “Equipment for Grinding of Grains,” “The Grain and the Grinding” and “The Bakery.” The story of the bakery details the history of Saint Vincent Bread, a once regionally-famous commodity until a 1963 fire struck the Saint Vincent campus, destroying the bakery and numerous other buildings. The bakery was never rebuilt, and thereafter Saint Vincent Bread was baked primarily for monastic consumption. Appended to

the end of the book is an eleven-page section which includes the recipes for Saint Vincent Bread and other goods baked using Gristmill flour and grains.

Father Omer, a native of Hastings, received a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy from Saint Vincent College in 1946, and completed his ordination studies at Saint Vincent Seminary. His graduate studies were at the Catholic University of America, where he received a master of arts degree in American History in 1955; and, at the Teachers College of Columbia University, where in 1963 he was awarded a doctoral degree of education specializing in the teaching of speech. He entered the Benedictine monastic community of Saint Vincent Archabbey as a novice in 1943. He made simple profession of vows on July 2, 1944, and solemn profession of vows on July 11, 1947. He was ordained a priest by the late Hugh C. Boyle, Bishop of Pittsburgh, in Saint Vincent Archabbey Church on June 12, 1949.

Father Omer served the monastic community as subprior for 28 years (1966-1994). Since 1966 he has also served as executive secretary and admin-istrative assistant to five archabbots. For the same length of time he has been archivist for both the Archabbey and the American-Cassinese Congregation of Benedictines. His previous assignments were in the educational apostolates of the Archabbey. At Saint Vincent Scholasticate he was a prefect from 1944 to 1948; and, at Saint Vincent Preparatory School, from 1948 to 1955. He taught American History, social studies and economics in the Prep School (1949–1956), where


Volume 11, Number 3

U.S. News and World Report, Barron’s, Peterson’s, Money, National Review and the Templeton Honor Rolls for Education in a Free Society.

“With the successful completion of the college’s $20-million capital campaign and the approach of his fifth anniversary as president, I have granted Father Martin’s request to complete his term as president, effective June 30,” said Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B. He noted in particular the growth and enhancement of academic programs

Father Martin R. Bartel, O.S.B., presi-dent of Saint Vincent College since 1995, announced his plans to return to teaching and pastoral service on June 30, upon completion of his five-year term.

“Father Martin’s academic, business, legal and religious background, coupled with his humility and an engaging sense of humor, made him a popular president who advanced the College in so many areas,” said J. Christopher Donahue, chief executive officer of Federated Investors Inc. and chairman of the Saint Vincent College Board of Directors. “We are grate-ful for all that he has done as president of this outstanding Catholic college and wish him the very best in his return to teaching in the classroom full-time.”

“The timing is right for me to complete my term as president and pursue my original, heartfelt interest in teaching and pastoral work within my primary vocation as a monk and priest,” Father Martin said. “I am grateful to so many persons with loyalty and affection for Saint Vincent whose enduring support enabled our college to develop and progress during these last several years.”

During Father Martin’s tenure, extensive progress has been made in every facet of the college. The college’s endowment more than doubled to $40 million and the college and its programs continue to be highly rated in national rankings by

under Father Martin’s leadership, includ-ing cooperative degree programs with Duquesne University in business, law, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physi-cian assistant and physical therapy; new academic majors in fine arts; a new honors program; the development of the Monastery Run remediation project and establishment of an Environmental Education Center; and numerous initia-tives to enhance student life on campus.

“Father Martin also oversaw the construc-tion of the new $5.1-million Instructional Technology Resource Center in Prep Hall and the renovation of the Saint Vincent Library, which have provided the campus with the latest technology for the advance-ment of educational programs,” Archabbot Douglas noted. Other significant accom-plishments during Father Martin’s presi-dency include the opening of The Growing Tree at SVC, a daycare, pre-school and kindergarten serving the college community as well as the Latrobe area; the establish-ment of the A.J. Palumbo Student Research Endowment; the initiation of the Pathways to Success program to promote educational access for youth from Pittsburgh’s inner-city schools; national accreditation of the college’s Department of Business Administration by the Association of College Business Schools and Programs; a first-place Award of Excellence in Education from the CNG Foundation for the college’s BRIDGES project; the initiation of a scholar exchange program between the college and Shandong University in the Peoples Republic of China; the completion of the campus computer network; completion of a strategic five-year plan and the establish-ment of a new Office of Research and Program Planning.

“During Father Martin’s term, the college also witnessed an expansion of service to meet the educational and training needs of Westmoreland County and southwestern Pennsylvania,” Archabbot Douglas said. “His presence on local and state boards and his service to schools and a variety of civic agencies have generated an expanded awareness of the contributions of Saint Vincent to the economic, educational, environmental, cultural, social and spiritual needs of the people and institutions through-out the region. I extend gratitude to Father Martin for his outstanding service as president of Saint Vincent College for the past five years,” Archabbot Douglas concluded.

College President Father Martin Will Return to Classroom

Rev. Martin R. Bartel, O.S.B.

Gristmill and Brewery Book(Continued from Page 6)

he was also moderator of the National Forensic League Chapter. At Saint Vincent College he was a prefect (1955–1956, 1960-1962), and was consecutively instructor in speech (1960), assistant professor of speech (1964), associate professor of speech (1968), and professor of speech (1981–1987). Also, from 1962 until 1966 he was Dean of Students. At Saint Vincent Seminary he was consecu-tively instructor in homiletics (1960), assistant professor of homiletics (1964), associate professor of homiletics (1968), and professor of homiletics (1981–1987). In 1987 he was named Professor Emeritus of Homiletics, and in 1988 received Saint Vincent Seminary's Nova et Vetera Award for excellence in teaching. And in 1994 Father Omer was honored with the Saint Vincent Seminary Alumni Award at the annual Alumni and Planned Giving Associ-ates Banquet. Each year since 1991 a

seminarian has received the "Omer U. Kline, O.S.B., Prize in Preaching."

In addition to his teaching duties, Father Omer was a member of the Board of Directors of the Saint Vincent College Corporation (1966–1981), a body which he also served as secretary (1966–1971). Since 1966 he has been secretary of both the Council of Seniors and the Monastic Chapter of the Archabbey (The Benedictine Society of Westmoreland County). From 1971 to 1979 he was on the Board of Directors of the Greensburg Catholic Publishing Associates (Catholic Accent). His pastoral service included being a weekend minister for 28 years at Holy Cross Parish, Youngwood, and Saint Gilbert Parish, Hunker (1962–1990); and a Sunday chaplain for the Carmel of the Assumption Monastery, Latrobe (1991–1994). He is a member of the Society of American Archivists and the American Catholic Historical Association.

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Volume 11, Number 3

1. Archabbot Douglas is greeted by Father Paulinus, S.V.D., the administrator of the Benedictine parish in Linkou, Taiwan. He is accompanied by, left, Br. Nicholas Koss, prior of Wimmer Priory in Taipei, and Fr. Alban Nunn, O.S.B. of Ealing Abbey in London.

2. The Archabbot meets a group of children from the parish following celebration of the Mass at Saint Benedict’s Parish in Linkou.

3-5. During his visit to Taiwan, the Archabbot visited the region of the recent earthquake near the city of Puli. There was extensive earthquake damage and the people of the region were forced to live in tents which provide temporary housing during the reconstruction, which will take several years.

6. Br. David Ho, a monk of Saint Vincent Archabbey, is from the earthquake region. The home of his parents was destroyed by the earthquake. Br. Nicholas and Archabbot Douglas visited with Br. David’s parents, his brother, sister-in-law , and nephew.

7. Fu Jen University, which was founded by Benedictines in Beijing, Mainland China, in the 1920s, recently celebrated its 70th anniversary. Archabbot Douglas was awarded an honorary doctorate to commemorate the Benedictine foundation. The Benedictines continue to teach at Fu Jen University, which was re-established in 1960 in Taipei, Taiwan. Archabbot Douglas is greeted by Cardinal Shan, Archbishop Ti-Kang, Dr. Peter Yang, President of Fu Jen and four vice presidents of the university.

8. The Archabbot is pictured with Cardinal Shan, president; Br. Nicholas Koss, O.S.B.; Fr. Cyprian Weaver, O.S.B., a monk of St. John’s Abbey who teaches at Fu Jen; Fr. Alban Nunn, O.S.B., and the Benedictine sisters of Tamshui. Sr. Luca, the prioress, and Sr. Beppo have both visited Saint Vincent Archabbey in recent years.

9. Archabbot Douglas delivers the commencement address at Fu Jen University. 10. Br. Nicholas Koss, O.S.B., Prior of Wimmer Priory in Taipei.11-12. The International Benedictine Commission on China met at Waegwan Abbey

in South Korea October 25-27. Fr. Norbert Du welcomes the Benedictine sisters from the Philippine Islands to the meeting at Waegwan Abbey.

13. During the meeting of the Benedictine Commission on China the members visited a Buddhist monastery in South Korea.

14. A Buddhist monk serves tea to the members of the Benedictine Commission.15-17. A Buddhist monk calls the monks to worship with the striking of the gong.

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Archabbot Visits Mission in Taiwan;Fu Jen University Marks 70th Anniversary

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Volume 11, Number 3


The Eternal Word Network (EWTN) television series with host Father Jacques Daley, O.S.B., on The Letters of St. Therese, is now available on videotape.

Two tapes each contain seven of the 28-minute shows. Fr. Jacques delves into her epistles of spiritual direc-tion, teaching and spiritual friend-ship in the 14-part series.

St. Therese of Lisieux, a doctor of the Church, wrote many let-ters to family and

friends which reflect her struggle to live out the vocation of love to which God called her. Each episode, in addition to the commentary by Fr. Jacques, includes a dramatization of St. Therese, performed by Maggie Mahrt, the actress who has toured the country with her stage play.

The tapes are published by Ignatius Press, P.O. Box 1339, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80522, 1-800-651-1531. Cost is $40 for each year’s series.

The videotapes are also available at the Basilica Gift Shop, which is open from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays and 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays. The Gift Shop’s phone is 724-532-5060.

St. Therese Television Series Now On Videotape

New Book ByFather Mark

Gruber, O.S.B.

Rev. Jacques Daley, O.S.B.

Rev. Mark Gruber, O.S.B.

Upcoming EventsSaturday, April 29

Francis Cardinal Arinze, President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue and a member of the Roman Curia, the Holy Father’s direct staff, will visit Saint Vincent Archabbey and Seminary April 29 and 30.

He will be the principal celebrant and homilist of the Mass at 5 p.m. Saturday, April 29, which will include the dedica-

tion of the new Basilica spires and the blessing of the new baptismal font.

Saturday, May 20 Ordination of Br. Philip M. Kanfush,

O.S.B., and Br. Matthew T. Laffey, 10 a.m., Archabbey Basilica.

Thursday, June 15 Jubilarian Day.

Father Mark Gruber, O.S.B., has recently published his fourth book, Thanksgiving and Praise: Dandelions for God, with Sister M. Michele Ransil, C.D.P.

Mike Aquilina, editor of New Covenant, wrote in his forward to Father Mark’s book of a project a few years ago when he had pored over volumes of documents of early Christianity. “Reading the Fathers was a powerful experience for me — much more than an academic exercise. Before I’d finished a dozen pages, I felt transported, over centuries, to a time when Christian faith was fresh . . . when a page of the Bible was something to be savored . . . when ordinary men, women, and children were willing to die rather than stay home from a Sunday liturgy.

“In all the Fathers, there was a fire burning, and it blazed across the millennia

to consume my heart. It was more than eloquence — though they were eloquent. It was more than zeal — though they were zealous. It was more than erudition — though they were learned men. It was a divine fire. I recognized this quality at once, because I had known it before: in the conversation and preaching of Father Mark Gruber.

“Now, as I read the pages of Thanksgiv-ing and Praise, I feel that fire once again. Yet I cannot call Father Gruber’s medita-tions ‘old-fashioned.’ For he is clearly our contemporary at this turn of the millennium.”

The book is based on a series of conferences presented during a week-long retreat. It is available in the Basilica Gift Shop and the Saint Vincent Book Center for $19.95, or it can be purchased via the Internet at: http://www.osb.org/sva/svsp, or by writing to Saint Vincent Spirituality Publications, 300 Fraser Pur-chase Road, Latrobe, Pa., 15650-2690. Postage and handling is $3.00.


Volume 11, Number 3

Br. Mark J. Evans, O.S.B., says that he just likes books, which might explain how nearly 50 years of working in the Saint Vincent College Book Center could pass so quickly for him. "I like everything about books," Br. Mark began. "I like the way they smell, the feel of the paper and bind-ing, the ink, even the color, and, of course, the knowledge they impart." But, most of all, he has enjoyed selling them.

Br. Mark -- known affectionately to thousands of current and former students as "Brother Mark-Up" -- has announced his intention to retire in May at the end of the spring semester, bringing to a close one of the most 'storied' traditions at the 154 year-old Benedictine college.

"This is the only job I ever did," Br. Mark continued. "I was assigned to work here three days after I arrived to join the Saint Vincent Benedictine Community at Saint Vincent in 1951 and I have been here in the store nearly every day since. The years passed so quickly."

Br. Mark, 66, was born in Canton, Ohio, the son of the late Robert and Julia (Halter) Evans, and attended St. Benedict's Elementary School. He and his parents and family -- three sisters and three brothers -- regularly attended St. Benedict's Church, founded and administered by the monks of Saint Vincent. After his graduation from Canton South High School in 1951, he decided to become a monk of Saint Vincent. He says that he was influenced in that decision by his pastor, the late Fr. Regis McCoy, O.S.B., and his late brother, Martin, who was already studying for the priesthood at Saint Vincent.

"I had worked as a stock boy in a drug store -- Schuman's Drug Store in Canton -- while in high school and the late Archabbot Denis O. Strittmatter, O.S.B., must have known about it. He told me that Fr. James Imhof, O.S.B., manager of the combination book center and post office, needed help so I reported to the small room in South Benedict Hall and was put to work unpacking books, stocking shelves and waiting on our student customers. Little did I know that I would still be here today."

After working for Fr. James, Br. Mark assisted a series of managers including the late Fr. Kenneth J. Kelly, O.S.B., the late Fr. Giles L. Nealen, O.S.B., the late Fr. Donald Keenan, O.S.B., Fr.

Br. Mark J. Evans, O.S.B. a 'Storied' Traditionfor Generations of SVC Book Center Customers

Clair F. Gannon, O.S.B., and Fr. John R. Erickson, O.S.B. before being named manager himself in 1967. Fr. Anthony J. Grossi, O.S.B., joined him this year.

Because the Book Center is the first place every student visits, Br. Mark knows virtually every student who has attended Saint Vincent during the past 48 years. "I recognize all of them when I see them, though I can't remember every single name," he confessed.

Like the excitement of opening a Broadway show, his fondest memory is the activity and pressure of getting ready for each new academic year though trucking strikes, lost shipments and other problems always cause stress. "We have always worked hard to try to have everything ready on the first day of school. When you work so closely with merchandise, you remember all kinds of unimportant details as well. I remember books that we sold 40 years ago. I even remember their colors -- Christian Virtue was red, Evidence of Faith was green," -- he gave as an example of two Religious Studies texts he can still picture. "I also remember the prices. Our first-year Accounting book was $9.75 in 1957. This year it was $95.00."

The store has tried to keep up with changing times though resources were sometimes scarce. "In the 1950s, we kept the cash and change in a cigar box until we finally got our first cash register. Now, we have a computer. Three years

ago we started accepting credit cards." The North Benedict store moved to the

former Library space in South Benedict Hall when the "new" Library building opened in 1958. It operated there for 38 years until 1996 when it opened in the area formerly occupied by the bowling lanes in Kennedy Hall as part of the new Student Union.

"I have really enjoyed serving the students," Br. Mark said. He " never person-ally received a penny for my work," he noted. "Everything the College allocated for my salary and benefits went completely to the Archabbey. And, of course, any profit made by the store went back to the College Auxiliary Enterprises income budget which helps to reduce tuition for all students."

While his life has been spent in a retail store, he credits the Benedictine monks of Saint Vincent Archabbey with giving meaning to his life. "The Monastery keeps me going," he explained. "I have enjoyed being a monk of this community, especially the common life, the friendships. The prayer life gives me the strength to face challenges."

Brother Mark J. Evans, O.S.B., manager of the Saint Vincent Book Center for nearly 50 years, has always been proud of the Col-lege Book Center where the merchandise is neatly arranged in meticulous order. He is preparing for retirement at the end of the spring semester.

The residence halls of Saint Vincent are featured on the new Saint Vincent afghan. This 48 by 60 inch work features the residence halls of the campus, Lean-der Hall, the Monastery, Aurelius Hall, Gerard Hall, Rooney Hall, Bonaventure Hall and Wimmer Hall, centered around the Archabbey Basilica, shown with the new spires. It is available from the Saint Vincent Book Center, 300 Fraser Purchase Rd., Latrobe, PA, 15650, by mail order for $49.95 plus $5 shipping.

Volume 11, Number 3


Sixty YearsOrdination

Rev. Brendan L. Smetana, O.S.B.

June 16, 1940

Twenty-Five Years

ProfessionRev. William F. Wurm, O.S.B.July 10, 1975

Twenty-Five Years

ProfessionRev. Jude W. Brady, O.S.B.July 10, 1975

Twenty-Five Years

ProfessionRev. Leon Hont,

O.S.B.July 10, 1975

Twenty-Five Years

OrdinationRev. Stephen

Honeygosky, O.S.B.May 24, 1975

Fifty YearsProfessionRev. Leo P.

Rothrauff, O.S.B.July 2, 1950

Fifty YearsProfessionRev. Justin L. Nolan, O.S.B.July 2, 1950

Fifty YearsOrdination

Rev. John Erickson, O.S.B.

June 11, 1950

Sixty YearsProfession

Rev. Robert J. Roche, O.S.B.

August 15, 1940

Sixty YearsProfessionRev. Ermin R. Smith, O.S.B.July 2, 1940


Rev. Godfrey F. Burkhardt, O.S.B.

July 2, 1940


Rev. Germain L. Lieb, O.S.B.July 2, 1940


Rev. Charles A. Weber, O.S.B.

July 2, 1940


Rev. Wilfred M. Dumm, O.S.B.

July 2, 1940


Volume 11, Number 3

Tribute, Memorial Gifts

Blessed by a steady flow of vocations during the severe priest shortage in America, Saint Vincent Monastery now houses over 200 men who devote their lives to serving the needs of people through a wide variety of pastoral, educational, and missionary work, both at Saint Vincent and throughout the world. While the older monks remain active well past retirement age, they face the same financial hardships that other retirees do — rising health care costs

and increasing living expenses. The monks have neither social security nor third-party health care benefits. A strong Monastery Healthcare Fund will afford the older priests and brothers the care they so richly deserve for their many years of service to the people of God.

Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., Saint Vincent Archabbey, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, Pennsylvania 15650-2690

Yes, I would like to help these men of God face the needs of their retirement years. Enclosed is my gift of: $50 $100 $500 $1000 Other My company may match my gift. Enclosed is the form.

Name

Address

City State

Zip Phone

Make checks payable to Saint Vincent Archabbey. Gifts are tax deductible.

A Life of Service

To give a tribute or memorial gift, please make a donation to Saint Vin-cent Archabbey in honor of or in memory of a friend, colleague or family member. Donations should be mailed to Mr. William Malloy in the Archabbey Development Office, 300 Fraser Pur-chase Road, Latrobe, Pa., 15650-2690, 724-532-6740. Donors from October 1, 1999, to January 31, 2000, include:

IN HONOR OF:REV. CHAD R. FICORILLI, O.S.B.

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald NisselREV. THOMAS J. KRAM, D.D.

Mrs. Patricia M. CoghlanMR. JOHN C. MASCARO

Mr. Michael J. CainSAINT BENEDICT

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. GregoryREV. PAUL-ALEXANDER SHUTT, O.S.B.

Mr. and Mrs. P. Arthur Shutt

IN MEMORY OF:+SOPHIE ANDREKANIC

Rev. Gilbert J. Burke, O.S.B.+REV. FIRMIN F. BEYER, O.S.B.

Anonymous+VERA BREZNOCK

Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Mraz+WALTER R. BURKARDT

Kennametal Employees+DONNA CHELKO BONO

Mrs. Lena A. Chelko+NICHOLAS M. DEMICHELE

Mr. and Mrs. Patsy DiSabatoMr. and Mrs. Timothy DobroskyDr. and Mrs. Vito J. Don GiovanniMr. and Mrs. Carl EarlyMr. Anthony GuerreraMs. Maria GuerreraMr. and Mrs. Mike GuerreraMr. and Mrs. Pete GuerreraMrs. Adele LiskaMs. Virginia Loperfito

+IRENE FAJTMs. Helen R. Fajt

+ALBERT FALBOMr. Roger M. Falbo

+EDITH FALBOMr. Roger M. Falbo

+REV. MARION R. GALLO, O.S.B.Ms. Elma T. Dent

+DONALD F. HOLDORF, SR.Mrs. Anita Holdorf

+MARGARET IWANOSKIBabe and Bruce Cross

+REV. ALLEN N. MEYER, O.S.B.Gail Uliano

+D. THOMAS RANKINMr. and Mrs. John F. Rankin

+MR. DAVID REESEMr. Gordon V. Thompson

+REV. EMMERAN A. RETTGER, O.S.B.

Mr. Vincent T. MendicinoMr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Rettger

+GREGORY W. SLICKMs. Jean Hammer

+JOSEPH H. SNYDERMr. and Mrs. Joseph W. Snyder

+SYLVIA STAICERMr. Frank Staicer

+REV. REMIGIUS BERNARD VEROSTKO, O.S.B.

Mr. and Mrs. Donald S. Pawlak+REV. CANICE T. WELSH, O.S.B.

Monastery Anonymous

Mrs. Madge CarlMrs. Marie S. CassidyMs. Karen DanforthDick and Marilyn FrankMrs. Peggy (Dolan) GallagherMs. Nancy HindmarshMr. and Mrs. Raymond KiblerDaniel McGlynn FamilyMr. and Mrs. Donald T. McGuireMr. Vincent T. MendicinoMs. Ann MurryOblates of Saint BenedictMrs. Pat ReedMs. Phyllis ReussBill and Donna RusnakMrs. Kathleen RyanMr. and Mrs. Thomas J. RyanMs. Helen SpahrMs. Phyllis B. TatmanMs. Susan TylerMrs. Eileen WaldaRose and Regis Warner

Volume 11, Number 3


Rev. Canice T. Welsh, O.S.B.

Father Canice Welsh, O.S.B., 78, died Saturday, Oct. 9, 1999, at Saint Vincent Archabbey, after a long illness. Father Canice was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on May 1, 1921, the son of the late Oliver and Mary (McGrath) Welsh.

He attended Saint Canice Grade School in Pittsburgh, and is a 1939 graduate of Saint Vincent Preparatory School. He received a bachelor of arts degree from Saint Vincent College in 1944 and attended Saint Vincent Seminary from 1942–47.

He entered the Benedictine Monastic community of Saint Vincent Archabbey in 1941. He made simple profession of vows on July 2, 1942, and solemn profession of vows on July 11, 1945. He was ordained a priest in Saint Vincent Archabbey Church by the late Hugh C. Boyle, Bishop of Pittsburgh, on June 15,1947.

Father Canice has served the monastic community primarily in the parish apos-tolate. However, he began his ministry as a faculty member (1947–55) and as a chaplain (1951–54) of Saint Vincent Preparatory School. He was also on the faculty and staff of the Barry–Robinson School in Norfolk, Virginia (1956–57). He was an assistant pastor at Saint Bernard Church in Hastings, Pennsyl-vania (1955–56 and 1969–81), Saint Benedict Church in Covington, Kentucky (1957–60), Saint Boniface Church on the North Side, Pittsburgh (1960–62), and Saint Benedict Church, Carrolltown, Pennsylvania (1962–63). He was on the Archabbey's mission band (1963–69), before being named associate pastor of Saint Gregory the Great Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia in 1981, where he also served the Virginia Beach Police and City Jail as a chaplain.

Part of Father Canice's pastoral work included the founding of several radio programs. While stationed at Saint Bernard Church in Hastings, he hosted a radio program on WNCC. In Virginia Beach he had a program entitled "A Par-

able for Today" and regularly staged "The Sweetgum Shows," where hundreds of children performed variety acts.

Father Canice was honored in the Allegheny Valley when he risked his life in the freezing waters of the Allegheny River on February 19, 1966, to save the life of a drowning boy. He was preaching a Parish Mission at Holy Family Church in Creighton, Pennsylvania, at the time.

He was also honored by the Centennial Class of 1946 of Saint Vincent Prepara-tory School in October of 1996 for his outstanding contribution to Prep School athletics, especially to the baseball program.

Father Canice is survived by a brother John of Bethel Park, and was prede-ceased by a brother, Oliver.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Benedictine Health and Welfare Fund, Saint Vincent Archabbey.

Obituaries

Rev. Canice T. Welsh, O.S.B.

Br. Bernard J.F. Lewitzke, O.S.B.Brother Bernard Lewitzke, O.S.B., died

Tuesday, January 25, 2000, after a brief illness. He was 88 years old.

Brother Bernard was born on Febru-

ary 12, 1911, in Lauenberg, Germany, the son of the late Theophil Lewitzke and Marie (Felstan) Lewitzke, and was baptized John Francis. When he was 18 months old his family moved to the United States and settled in Chicago, where he attended St. Paul’s Grade School and Jones High School.

He entered the Saint Vincent monastic community in 1926. He began his novi-tiate as a lay brother in 1927 and made profession of vows on July 2, 1928.

Brother Bernard served as the miller at the Saint Vincent Gristmill from 1927 to 1950, and as a baker from 1950 to 1953. He was also socius of brothers from 1950 to 1960. From 1961 to 1967 he was sacristan at St. Mary Church, North Side, Pittsburgh. He was assigned to the monastery’s priory and high school in Savannah, Georgia, in 1967, working there for several years as a baker, and also teaching German privately. In 1982 he returned to the Archabbey, where he did clerical work for the Development Club.

Brother Bernard is survived by three sisters, Molly Uchison of Oaklawn, Illinois; Hattie Cronk of Cicero, Illinois; and Martha Grazulis of Markham, Illinois. Two brothers, Leo and Paul, preceded him in death.

Memorial contributions may be made

Br. Bernard J. F. Lewitzke, O.S.B.


Volume 11, Number 3

Obituaries

Rev. Julian F. Burt, O.S.B.

Father Julian Francis Burt, O.S.B., 91, died Monday, February 14, 2000, after a long illness.

Father Julian was born Nov. 4, 1908, in New York City, the son of the late Julian and Mary (Markey) Burt. He attended St. Peter High School in Staten Island; later studied at Fordham University, St. Francis College in Pennsylvania and St. John’s University in New York, and received a master of arts degree in philosophy from the Catholic University of America.

Father Julian entered the religious life in 1939, when he professed vows with the Fathers of Mercy. He first served in parish apostolates and on the faculties of several seminaries. In 1956 he entered the Benedictine monastic community at Belmont Abbey in North Carolina. There he served as a faculty member at Belmont Abbey College. Later he taught at Mercyhurst College, Erie, and at the Benedictine Military School, Savannah, Ga. Father Julian entered the Saint Vincent monastic community in 1968, and for

several years he served in its pastoral apostolates in the dioceses of Greensburg, Altoona-Johnstown and Erie. In 1981 he was appointed pastor of Holy Cross Church in Spangler.

He retired to the Archabbey in 1984, but continued to serve in weekend parish assignments until 1990. He also worked in the archabbey post office and helped with the upkeep of the St. Vincent Grove.

Father Julian published a number of articles in The Priest, Homiletic and Pastoral Review and Pastoral Life.

In addition to his parents, Father Julian was preceded in death by his sister, Louise Wragg. He is survived by his nephew, William Wragg of Branford, Conn., and cousin Rita Carlson of Sparta, N.J.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Benedictine Health and Welfare Fund, Saint Vincent Archabbey.

Rev.Julian F. Burt, O.S.B. Rev. Bertin L. Emling, O.S.B.

Rev. Bertin L.Emling, O.S.B.

Father Bertin L. Emling, O.S.B., 94, died Wednesday, February 16, 2000, after a long illness.

Father Bertin was born July 9, 1905, in Erie, a son of the late George and Barbara (Eichenlaub) Emling.

He received a bachelor of arts degree from Saint Vincent College in 1931. After completing his studies at Saint Vincent Seminary in 1935, he did graduate study in chemistry, earning a master of arts from Johns Hopkins in 1937 and a doctor of philosophy from the University of Notre Dame in 1941.

Father Bertin entered the monastic community of Saint Vincent Archabbey in 1928. He made simple profession of vows July 2, 1929, and solemn profession July 11, 1932. He was ordained a priest June 16, 1935. Father Bertin served the monas-tic community mainly in its educational apostolates. He taught chemistry at Saint Vincent Preparatory School from 1934 to 1935 and then at Saint Vincent College from 1941 to 1980. He was a project director of the National Undergraduate Chemical Research Program and a consultant to the Keystone Carbon Co. of St. Marys and was a member of the board of directors of Saint Vincent College from 1958 to 1965. He also served as subprior of Saint Vincent Archabbey from 1960 to 1966 and as pastor of Forty Martyrs Parish in Trauger from 1960 to 1963.

In 1980 he was named professor emeri-tus. He received the Alumnus of Distinction Award of Saint Vincent College in 1984 and the Distinguished Professor Emeritus Award in 1989. In 1991 the college established the Bertin L. Emling, O.S.B., Scholarship Fund in his honor.

Father Bertin was a member of several professional and religious associations, including the Knights of Columbus, the American Benedictine Academy, the Ameri-can Chemical Society, the Chemical Society of London and the Pennsylvania Round Table of Science. He authored numerous articles that appeared in the Journal of the American Chemical Society and the Journal of Organic Chemistry.

He is survived by a brother, Father Marion Emling, O.S.B., of Saint Vincent, and three cousins, Ms. Jeanne Parker Finn and Mrs. Eleanor Wallace, both of Erie, and Ralph A. Emling of Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bertin L. Emling, O.S.B., Scholarship Fund at Saint Vincent College.

to the Benedictine Health and Welfare Fund, Saint Vincent Archabbey.

Volume 11, Number 3


SAINT VINCENT ARCHABBEY300 Fraser Purchase Road

Latrobe, PA 15650-2690724-539-9761

http://benedictine.stvincent.edu

Address Service Requested

The First Benedictine Monastery in the United States, Founded in 1846

NON-PROFITORGANIZA-

TIONU.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Archabbey Summer Retreat Schedule Announcedthe American Bible Study Award for excellence in Scripture scholarship at Saint Vincent Seminary. He will be ordained to the priesthood on May 20, 2000.

A men’s four-day retreat will be held July 20 to 23, with Father Simon J. Toth, O.S.B., serving as retreatmaster. Currently the pastor at Saint Boniface Parish, Chestnut Ridge, Father Simon

has also served in parishes in Crabtree, Johnstown and Baltimore, and as a prison chaplain.

For more information on the retreat program, contact Brother Hugh, at 724-532-6600, extension 2139. To receive a brochure on the retreats, write to Saint Vincent Retreat Program, 300 Fraser Purchase Road, Latrobe, PA 15650-2690.

The 2000 Summer Retreat Schedule at Saint Vincent Archabbey has been announced by Brother Hugh D. Lester, O.S.B., Retreat Director. The series of six retreats will begin May 19 and conclude on July 23.

Father Michael A. McKay, O.S.B., will conduct a retreat on “Benedictine Spirituality” from May 19-21. Currently Director of Archabbey Health Care, Father Michael was a priest in residence at St. Benedict Parish, Baltimore, while earning his master of science degree in nursing from The Johns Hopkins University in 1997.

Father Mark F. X. Gruber, O.S.B., is conducting two retreats: a three-day retreat for men which will be held May 26 to 28, and a three-day charismatic prayer retreat to be held June 16 to 18. An associate professor in the Department of Sociology/Anthropology at Saint Vincent College, Father Mark is the author of three books on spirituality.

A women’s retreat will be held June 2 to 4 by Father Justin M. Matro, O.S.B. A former associate director of the Retreat Program, Father Justin is Director of Spiritual Life at Saint Vincent Seminary.

Br. Philip M. Kanfush, O.S.B., will conduct the retreat for married couples from July 14 to 16. He earned the master of arts degree in theology with a concen-tration in Sacred Scripture and received

Aerial view of the Saint Vincent campus with the new spires. (Courtesy of Dan Rooney).

Heart to Heart Spring 2000

Documents

Transcript of Heart to Heart Spring 2000