February, 1999
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Co-editors: |
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Gael Stahl (Ernest-1960 "Zeke") |
Jack Brennan (Ternan-1960) |
Welcome to our 27th edition. The DD26 of William Hallisy, (Laurian-1955) was returned due to expired forwarding address; phone was/is: 216/932-4366. Three have asked to have their DD labels pulled.
We start with some letters that were inadvertently left out of Oct/Nov's DD26. Perhaps I was stunned by the remark in the final letter, by Joe Smith, "unless DD is only about harmless cordiality and male bonding." Joe, you're slow. I've said it 26 different ways. Here's No. 27. DD was conceived as a way for loving cordial brothers (and unloving uncordial brothers) to reconnect (male and female bonding is good) with each other out here in the vast fringes of our world province. I'm interested in your Thomas Celano stories, your little flowers or remembrance about life and friars. I care not a bit about essays Ken Starr, Bill Clinton, papal fascism, the going-to-hell-modern church, or Renaissance church, hatred for or love for homosexuals or Jews or Jewish nuns.
That is, I do care to read it in the right place, in personal letters to and from you and Tony or - better - the two or you to each other. But not if I have to retype it for others at huge expense of time and postage and printing costs, when I suspect others' eyes glaze over rather than read them in search of some fraternal flower or sentence hidden in the verbiage. I literally cry out in pain at having to type the endless perorations that get sent me in LONGHAND. I'd not cry so much if they were emailed or sent on computer disks because then I'd only have to quickly edit. - There, I've said it.
I've delayed getting this issue out for more than a month because I felt a repulsion. I love your simple, sweet, nostalgic stuff. But the mind games puncture my fading mental and emotional stamina. I admit it's my own fault. Jack Brennan offered to type up the handwritten letters I received after DD26 came out. Dumb me, I thought I could cope one more time. I was wrong. I don't know if Thomas Celano had to deal with the Conventuals vs. the Capuchins vs. the OFMs disputations, but I doubt it. He certainly was a better editor. Or my memory of his two Lives is faulty.
Normally, I don't publish our copious correspondence about mundane editorial matters, but I will share the letter of Jack Brennan on 31 Oct: "My offer to type some of the non electronic offerings still holds. The US Postal Service is not that bad, and it is certainly more efficient than when you and I were in formation years. I say let's slow the world down a bit so we can smell the flowers that you have so graciously tilled and labored to bring to bloom. I think that the brethren mean it when they say that they savor the DD. I think that the Smith-Lutz dichotomy will actually eventually serve to clarify profound differences, not only in theology but in the way we think about the world. A friend told me the other day that he believes in moderation in all things; he believes that even moderation should be moderated. Sum: send me some of that grunt work and let's keep in sync [the email and snail mail versions of DD], if it please the court. By the way, how many hard copies to you send out these days? Yours in worthwhile cordiality and bonding, Jack"
The answer to the question is: about 250. Jack emails out about 70. I don't know how many download DD from Jack Hardesty's Web site page devoted to DD. - And, I stand corrected re the dichotomy. Maybe I was going through my change in life.
That said, this is a very good issue of Diaspora Digest. Isaac gets us off to a wondrous, typical start.
8 Sept 98 Isaac Braun: Peace. It is time to send our annual letter contribution [and] in thanks for everything we receive by means of the Diaspora Digest. It is inspiring to learn what others are doing, the experiences of others, how the Holy Spirit is working, as Ed Schludecker said in his letter of Feb. 9. I liked your letters, Ed. I'm very grateful also for what the Holy Spirit is doing for me.
In 1973, the Holy Spirit, through the charismatic renewal - and also through my wife, Socorro, who was still a nun at that time - led me to an experience of God and brought a new life for me. At times, when I look at my own experience, I say, "Even old dogs can learn new tricks." Keep up the good work, editors.
Yesterday was Independence Day in Brazil. There were the usual parades with the various colleges and the military. However, this year we participated in the 4th Clamor of the Excluded, a movement begun principally by the Conference of the Brazilian Bishops, but now also with the participation of other churches and various organizations, one of the main ones being the Movement of the Loudless. The purpose of the Clamor of the Excluded is to try to make the authorities conscious of the lack of social justice in the country. The Movement of the Loudless received help from the exterior and is well disciplined and also organized to occupy Loud, which is considered unproductive. In Pernambuco their march began on the other end of the state almost 500 miles from here more than a month ago. Before we began our march yesterday, they sounded a trumpet like Moses in the desert (Numbers 10). If there wasn't any pressure, the government probably would not want to do any agrarian reform, unfortunately.
Socorro and I continue as Eucharistic minsters, taking communion every week to some elderly and sick persons. This year Socorro is also the president of the Legion of Mary, even though she was not even a member of the Legion when they asked her to be the president. We continue accompanying the group called Youth in Action, which promotes encounters in local schools to evangelize the youth.
By means of some raffles, donations, and a loan from the Mother's Club with which Socorro is working, the Legion finally was able to buy a little wooden house that serves as a center for their work. The governor loaned them about $700, which they are paying back in the form of 800 diapers that the Social Service will give to poor families. The club still did not receive any grant from the government, despite a lot of promises. In less than a month there will be elections, and a lot of politicians are looking for votes in this community. But with (the club) the rule is "They pay before they receive any votes." It is easy to promise and then forget the community. Every Saturday in the center is the celebration or liturgy of the Word with communion. The pastor wants this in all of the communities where there is no Mass. In our parish there are two priests and 17 communities.
Kaline will finish the second grade this year and also continues with the children's choral group at the Olinda Music Center. The other week, they had a presentation for the Pernambuco Culture Week. Tomorrow they'll have the first of several presentations in some churches of Olinda. She is growing a lot and really asserts herself. According to our way of thinking she is growing too much at times, though we have to try to understand her.
Since the beginning of August I'm on a "forced vacation." The hotel where I was working closed; one of the main reasons being the lack of control of expenses. In June and July, business was very good. I left my curriculum vitae with four other hotels, but so far they have no work for me. One of the main problems in Brazil is unemployment. We have six months of unemployment insurance here. [Please write again soon, because the Brazilian economy has been in the forefront of world news. GS]
Last January we made a trip to the north of Brazil, the first time since we married in 1984 and the first time in 20 years that Socorro visited her home place. We also visited Bishop Ryan in Santarem. He helped us a lot to buy our home when we married. On this trip we even went by bus from Santarem to Belem on the Transamazon Highway, a trip of 60 hours, including layovers. In part of the trip we had mud, in other parts dust. However, it was not necessary to push the bus because of mud. This trip reminded me of my travels in the interior years ago.
Also in January, I participated in part of the National Encounter of Married Priests in Joao Pessoa, about 75 miles north of here. There were some good talks about being involved in the work of the Kingdom of God. Unfortunately, at the time of the Mass in the closing ceremony there was a tumult. Unexpectedly, it was announced that the local bishop forbade any married priests to concelebrate. In the other encounters, the bishops did not interfere. The former bishop of Joao Pessoa had monthly meetings with the married priests. He is retired now in Minas Gerais and takes married priests with him on his visits in the interior. Here in Recife-Olinda, the married priests in general are not doing much. At times, we don't even have the monthly meeting, and at times I was working and could not participate in the meetings. - God bless all of you.
21 Sep 1998 Nick Baxter: Thanks for your message and thoughts on bridging. Bob Flores's email is: roflores of juno.com. Gene Michel and Larry Brummer are not on net. Gene's address is : 535 New Laredo Highway, S.A. Tx 78211. Ph: 210-924-4383. Larry's address: Mission Espada - 10040 Espada Road, S.A. Tx 78214. Ph: 210-627-2064. Gene, Flores and I are trying to arrange a meal out.
This summer, Larry went to Espada. Tony Pasada came to St. Joes from Cleveland. We have left the summer drought behind. Where did summer go? I will be going to El Salvador for a week in Oct to work with a medical team. Doing some therapy and consultation. After a year of bridging, I see that I want to have more to do on a daily basis. Peace.
2 Oct 98 John Miller: Gael, while the market is dangerous and volatile right now, NOW is the time to buy, for the long term, in my opinion. I kept my 403-B plan fully invested in various Fidelity Stock funds. I think the market will shake out by the end of the year, but watch out for the millennium craziness. As you probably know, in the year 1000, the Church was given much property by those who thought the world was ending. When it did not end, did the Church give it back? . . . you bet not. I suppose it serves them right as they were trying to "buy" their way, a very human trait. I've read all of Peter Lynch's books, and feel he's got the right idea. I also enjoyed his humor. I recommend his books highly, as they cut to the chase, without being too technical.
Teaching special ed [Susan Stahl's new profession] leads to sainthood or burnout. I wouldn't even try it, and I work with special education teachers regularly. No way, do I have that kind of compassion and patience. Education has become so political, and the control is by those who hold purse strings and know nothing. They think just because they attended school, they are "experts." Part of the problem is the concept of "equality." For many, it seems to mean we all have equal talents, brains, gifts, etc. and can be brought to the same level. I wish Susan well, but special education has become a dumping ground, at least here.
11 Oct 98 John Miller: Re: the article in Harper, Sept. 1998: "Beyond Belief." Gael, glad you liked the article, as I was taken with it. It expressed some things that have been in my mind and on my tongue, but not in such an eloquent way. Sandy read it too and got the expected reaction about celibacy and people who close themselves off, not really living life, whatever that is.
She thinks males have perverted faith through their mental machinations and gymnastics. She did like some of it though. I especially like the concept of a uniquely American mythology and faith, based on this land and where East and West meet. Unless it is rooted on the land we experience daily (of course some people only experience concrete, which is hopeless), and make it part of the "mystery of faith," I think it only becomes a vague concept. I especially liked Smith's article, this time, on the lake, the wind and the experience of feeling the Great Spirit. That's connection!!
Sandy is basically correct in that belief often gets in the way of faith. We have so many explanations about things we really don't understand. Using a nonreligious illustration of something I learned during the Hunter's Moon Festival: Someone there was playing the glass harmonica. It has an eerie, unearthly sound that was said to once have made women faint. The playing of it was stopped in the early 20th century because people who played the instrument went crazy eventually. First their hands would go numb and eventually they became totally out of touch with reality. There were numerous explanations for it, but none was correct until they discovered lead poisoning. The player would get lead poisoning from the leaded glass and decorative paints, and as they wet their hands to play it, and often drank the water they were wetting their hands in, they would accumulate lead in their bodies. I was amazed by this illustration. Occam's razor was never taken seriously by male theologians, who continue to "invent" explanations of why we should believe and have faith.
Another story I love is from Campbell: An American had been living with and observing the Taoist monks for some weeks, and finally came up to one of them and said: "I don't understand your philosophy or theology. Could you explain? The monk, somewhat puzzled and sad, answered: "We have no philosophy or theology. We dance." I find that story more powerful than all the lessons I ever learned about belief and faith.
I'll be eager to hear more of your thoughts (a male thing, I guess), as they develop.
17 Oct 1998: Chuck Gunti: Just a note to let you know a received the October newsletter. I am now in Oklahoma. See what singing that song will get you? [I didn't get the reference to the musical until the third reading. GS] I'm the post chaplain; it's honest work. Just to let you now I enjoy reading the newsletter and keeping up with old names and faces. Keep up the good work.
25 Oct 1998: Jack Bartz: Enclosed is the latest article that appeared in the local rag about the Mayslake property. [Essentially, the article (Lisa Black of the Chicago Tribune, October 23, 1998) reports that 11 distinct groups have submitted plans to lease or buy the Mayslake property. Since the Tower and the Loop have been demolished, I don't think any of us are interested in submitting bids. JB]
Glad to see you got the DD25 out with an "October 1998" addition to the edition number. It seems many of the brothers and sisters had a lot of memories about Tars that may not have all been put into print yet.[I published all I received, I'm quite sure.] Hopefully, the ritual of separation from the deceased in this life can be ameliorated by our linguistic leave takings. While being glad to hear so many wrote something about Tars, I was wondering about a topic that perhaps others can provide some elucidation. The item concerns, perhaps from the dark side of the musical world, Tars's special fascination with telling us about the "castrati." Do you remember that? Perhaps this subject came up regularly during Gregorian chant class when he was treating us to a discourse on the punctum elongatum. I guess this is an incompletely processed item of past memory and maybe I'm the only one with this vestigial memory. Do any of our psychologist brethren have a word of comment about this? Maybe it is not important anyway. [I wouldn't touch this with a ten foot punctum. JB]
[I want to hear other opinions, but I don't think it takes a psychologist so much as a physiologist or musicologist to comment. As I remember it, Tars was working with splendid but temporary boy soprano and alto voices that too soon changed into ordinary baritone and basses. That purity of sound, as he said, was kept into adulthood with the castrati because no female voices could create that sound. Of course, you knew that and are pulling my leg. Not my middle leg, I hope. - Susan and I went to see the Castrati movie about five years ago, but it was sold out. I wonder if it's in video. I can't remember the name. Anybody?
Mayslake continues to be of interest. If we can use St. Paschal's for the 2000 conveniat, it will take all of your magical powers. But I trust them. - Zeke]
25 Oct 98 Joe Smith: A sign-off note on homophobia and homo-relationships (not just sexuality). The Bible condemns homoeroticism mainly because of "idolatrous" practices that threatened Judaic cohesiveness and monotheism. Today's gays are not, as far as I (a straight guy) am informed, worshiping idols, even as they are in a variety of gay relationships, some of which include consensual sexuality. The ordinary human being, psychologists relate, is somewhere on an androgynous sexual and relational spectrum, complex and different from person to person. That's the way we were born and naturally are. I myself am living in marriage to a marvelous wife and partner. I am a father with two talented daughters. We're all in the arts (art, music, theater) where there are also a lot of talented and great gay people. Where would we be today without gays like Michelangelo (right smack in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel) or the many musicians, playwrights, and artists who preserved and promoted our whole cultural and even religious education and environment? It's not a matter of deviation but of variation in this considered view. I don't claim to understand it all either, but I'm trying. Meantime, I accept people for whom they are, not in terms of preset labels and ancient biases. I recently called, publicly, on Cardinal George to protest anti-gay hate crimes, re the incidents here in Chicago and the draconian death of the Wyoming student, Matt Shepard. I asked George publicly to disavow scary and gothic Vatican statements: that it was "understandable" that gay liberation would cause violence. Such rhetoric, along with recently hyped gay "cures," promote an atmosphere eventually condoning violence and even murder.
Whatever the case, Baal is no longer a threat to the theologies, unless we invoke Melchizedek, his priest. Modern gays are rather the victims of that arcane dualism that interprets "flesh" as evil and even satanic. It's a category mistake to segue from ancient idolatries to Christian-era ascetical warps and biases. The Church that represses all critical considerations and pillories minorities it does not understand - or want to- is no humane guide to a moral ethics, especially in the complex and subtle area of human sexuality. It ought rather to be concerned for its own "power-and-glory" idolatries and for not resisting the temptation in the desert about worshiping the kingdoms of this world, even as it preaches about another world. Meantime, most people are - thankfully - better than their religions. See you in the next millennium. JS "Il pagano." [We pagans do not keep promises. On 26 Oct., Joe wrote again.]: P.S. That was a fast issue. Keep up the good work and safeguard that openness we need. Shalom. Eight of 12 steps of progressive repentance: Contrition, confession, rebuttal, attack, redefine (have Moses get God to reconceptualize adultery), court martial or discipline (for soldiers who tell Clinton jokes), bomb a few countries, reduce interns to extern.(Will keep you posted on further steps.)
26 Oct 1998 Marilyn Stahl: I didn't take you seriously when you said you were mailing DD26 as I didn't think it humanly possible, but got it today. So interesting. Particularly resonated with Joe Smith's comments on Edith Stein and Stepinac. I think the same, but couldn't articulate as well...
27 Oct Joe Smith: [Joe writes about Faith and Reason, the new encyclical, which was highly praised by Commonweal for it's call for faith to be based on the philosophical underpinnings of the past including Socrates and Buddha, and as the handmaiden to theology, lest irrational, emotional faith lead to superstition, millenniumism, et al. - GS] Faith and Reason: It's quite a job keeping up with JPII. He's quite an act and, for a senior citizen, admirably active. We got a head-spinning rush of events recently, what with multiple canonizations of clergy and nuns (the only "saints" available) and now an encyclical on faith and reason. You have to hand it to him and give due credit for the energy and commitment. I hear, too, from an editor/scholar friend, who wrote a preface to a book on phenomenology by Wytola, that he's a nice guy to talk to, maybe have a beer with. That is, if you're not Curran or Kung.
Due credit given, let's take a closer look at the historic theme: faith and reason. It's good to have another pass at it; but in this case there are troubling questions. His competence in professional phenomenology (Husserl, Scheler, et al.) doesn't seem to rub off on his theology, which seems to remain at the catechetical level of parsing dogma, not of uncovering the journey of actually experienced faith. It you got a peek at all the answers before you asked the questions, what's the point? He's really an old-time catechist and scholastic, who regards philosophy and reason as the nicely submissive, docile, and put-upon ancilla theolgiae. This is, pace the critical rationality of Kant, Husserl, Sartre, Heidegger et al., a considerably tamed and circumscribed view of "reason," up against what amounts to an "administrational" (and catechetically conceived) theology. No open discussion of unsettling questions or institutional parameters seems ever allowed. You see, we already know the semi-infallible answers; and so it's all basically scripted in advance. Unfortunately, philosophy has long since ceased being the docile handmaiden, even as a more convincing phenomenology of religion and of belief has been liberated: the struggle - a real one - for "truth" even within a framework of faith. JPII, who really knows better, seems to want to keep the modestly attired ancilla serving coffee and donuts, rather than participating in a dialog that counts. (Happy to dialog with anyone out there on this.)
27 Oct 98 Bro. Herman Joseph James: I want to tell you that I have enjoyed reading every article of DD #25 and #26. I had fun memories of the ex-Franciscans of many years ago. Now, I will be celebrating a 50-year golden jubilee as a brother in our province. [And we ex-cellingly congratulate you. We remember and miss your cooking. GS]
This week, I go to St. Louis to enter several days of neuropsychological testing at Barnes Jewish Hospital to have a possible cochlear implant. Our provincial superior hopes I realize how important this type of testing is because it means a radical change in my life from a non-hearing world to a hearing world. The doctors will have a final decision. It is all up to the divine will of almighty God. I appreciate your prayers during the time of surgery.
I got a newsletter from someone. There was a strange word that is according to the Oxford English dictionary: pneumonoultra-microsppicisilicovolanoconioses. It means dust, pneumonoconiosis caused by the inhalation of very fine silicate or quartz dust. - Dr. Samuel A. Mudd was the physician who set the leg Lincoln's assassin, John Wilkes Booth. And shame created the expression of ignominy, "His name is mud." - 11,111,111 x 111,111,111 = 12,345,678,987,654,321. [Now that's phenomonology at its best. JB]
I give best regards to all and please pray for me.
28 Oct 98 Joe Smith: I read Tony Lutz's views on ecumenism; to me it seems like a case of regressive restoration of classic Catholicism. [Great phrase for stick in the Mudd. GS] My perspective is hardly just my own 'twist.' It's based on the mandate for unity in the N.T. ("That all may be one"), on extensive interdenominational and interfaith experience of the authentic belief of others, and even on the serious ecumenical intents of JPII, Cardinal Bernardin, et al. Are the faith and urgent reconceptualizings of the great Reformers simply to be dismissed as we retreat into a neomedieval concept of papacy? The popes have been - in the view of many believers - part of the problem, not of the solution. Today, the Vatican seems a refuge for all manner of reactionaries and sectarians. Doesn't your own experience tell you anything? There are also varieties of religious experiencewithin Christianity and a considerable literature. All I ask is that, from wherever they are, Christians reach out to one another in love and commitment to peace and justice. But that also includes looking critically at our traditions and classic frameworks, to see if - maybe - fallen man's institutions reflect not only ideals, but failures, even crimes against "disbelievers" (later 'rehabilitated'). It's a matter of repentance, not just self-interested proclamations, as reading mere organizational structures back into earlier times, when inchoate efforts demonstrated a plurality of forms and beliefs. In any case, there has to be an enlightened openness and outreach, especially beyond mere institutional furniture and calcified forms. Belief is basically critical faith. A vast historical literature witnesses to that. Similarly, with condemnations of our homo-relational brothers. There is no quick leap from an indictment of idolatry and its practices to an ascetical Christian ethic of a later era. It's a lot more subtle and complex than that. While I honor marriage, as a straight guy, I think Christianity needs to be inclusive of a plurality of theologies and of people. Otherwise we slip back into dark ages and gothic times and practices. Shalom.
30 Oct 1998 Jack Brennan: Zeke, I particularly liked HH's letter in DD26; in fact that whole back page was good. I might like to comment on Joe Smith's devaluation in mid paragraph of 16 Oct 98: "...unless the DD is only about harmless cordiality and male bonding." [I'd welcome that. In its best sense, he exactly describes what I conceived DD to be and the reason I dedicate so many days and hundreds of dollars to it each year. The polemics often bore me to tears when patently grandstanding. I know it when I see it because I do it. It's ego gratification. But so is the cordiality, I suppose. - Gael]
Last Saturday, Rachel took some mushrooms with some friends and I was out looking for her and her boyfriend at 2 a.m. Somehow I was not too upset because her boyfriend is fairly responsible. She got home around 3 a.m. when I was already asleep. Gayle was out of town on her annual women's retreat with some friends. Gayle and I had a long talk with her and her boyfriend and got some commitments from them. So Rachel is grounded this week. She had been skipping some college classes, but they don't take attendance there. Yesterday she told me that she was dumb to skip the classes and was really enjoying them this week. I'm trying to get off the roller coaster and look in the mirror. I'm not all that great and doing what I am supposed to be doing either.
I am going to apply for a new job with an agency that works with abused children. I am meeting with the director on Monday. I love my work, but the hassles I have to go through with the insurance companies is driving me nuts. Their need to make millions is really ripping off the patients and the providers. They don't get it that a few dollars spent on mental health will save them millions in medical costs. They are greedy and stupid. And that's the news from Spokane - Where the men are good looking, the women strong, and the kids above average.
1 Nov 98 John Miller: "Pope asks for a rational explanation of the Inquisition" was a headline in the "religion" section of Sunday's paper. Along with it is a picture of Ratzinger and a statement from the Vatican "that popes alone can determine the limits of their powers..." This was more humorous than the funny pages today. This seemingly implies that anything that doesn't agree with the Church's views is considered "irrational," besides being heretical. Is the "Holy Mother" institution now justifying its past immoral behavior, as a way to begin a new Inquisition? "Popes must have the supreme position to fulfill their mission." The focus on such nonsense reveals the incorrigible corruption of this group in the "Men's Club." It also reveals how out of touch they are with reality and the faithful they are there to serve.
2 Nov 98 Anthony Lutz: I remember two sayings found on the walls of our second year classroom at old St. Joe's: "Reading is feeding on a mind richer than your own." - "Speak clearly if you speak at all; carve every word before you let it fall." These quotes made a great impression on me and today my greatest pleasure and relaxation is to read and to listen to sermons/talks that are audible, clear, and easy to grasp.
Sue and I spent 10 days in Germany at the beginning of October. We stayed with Bob and Friede Wilson part of the time in the Schwabbing district of Munich. One of their girls is my godchild and I exercised my spiritual oversight by giving her the German edition of The Catechism of the Catholic Church. Just read the Catechism. You will find it one of the greatest treasures ever created. For wine lovers know that Germany, France, and Luxembourg had a great grape harvest in 1988.
Jimmy Buffett, the singer, just came out with his biography at age 50. The back blurb to the book says that when he entered adolescence he was able to break the grip Catholicism had on him. That is so typical of young people who give up the faith they never really knew and exchanged the freedom of the sons of God for the slavery of pride and self-indulgence. It reminds me of a book review Fr. Roy Ryland, an Episcopal convert to Catholicism, has in the September issue of "This Rock" magazine about Catholics who found a home in the Episcopal Church. The book is "Finding Home" by Christopher Webber. Fr. Ryland says two themes run through the book: 1. Ambiguity: "The converts Weber writes about did not like the Catholic Church's teaching about abortion, contraception, the indissolubility of marriage, and the immorality of homosexual behavior. In the Episcopal church they could always believe almost anything they wanted to believe and still be quite at home there. Nor would there be anyone in authority who could say them nay." And, 2. "The other characteristic theme ... is subjectivism. Their decision to become Episcopalians were always subjective. They did not like this and this about the Catholic Church, they like that and that about the Episcopal Church. None professed to be seeking the truth." I bring this up because in the Catholic faith, truly examined, we have the pearl of great price, the treasure found in a field for which it pays to give up everything. As we approach the second millennium I encourage any who have strayed to come back home.
Some books I have recently read and enjoyed: "Catholic for a Reason: Scripture and the Mystery of the Family of God" by Hahn and Suprenant; "Love and Marriage and the Catholic Conscience: Understanding the Church's Teaching on Birth Control," by Dietrich von Hildebrand; and "What Went Wrong with Vatican II: the Catholic Crisis Explained" by Ralph M. McInerny. The gist of the last book is this: should we follow the authority of the Holy Spirit-guided magisterium or the authority of theologians? The book is only 170 pages long but makes for very exciting reading.
I thank Joe Smith for his kind words and professional demeanor. He is a worthy friend who enters into a colloquium inter fratres with spirit, wit, and intellectual sharpness and does not shy from disagreements on an agreeable plane. "Citius, altius, fortius," Joe. In Xto.
3 Nov 98 Tony Lutz: I finally got to page 8 of DD25 and clearly learned that both John Miller and Nick Baxter are out of touch with us oldsters who went to school together, debated vigorously, and still respected each other as God's loving creation and friends. My intellect and heart are still connected. However, like St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher, I am not moved by human considerations to water down the most precious gift I have, by the grace of God, my Catholic faith. While John Miller prefers to follow his personal lights, I also follow my personal lights but those that have come through the brighter and truer lights revealed by Jesus Christ through His church. There is no question of my church right or wrong because Christ has promised that his church will always be right in teaching His saving truths.
And, Nick Baxter, what is more kind-spirited than to speak the truth in love? I am shocked that he read an "ad hominem" attack on a dear confrater, Julian Woods, in what I wrote. All I asked for was the fuller story. I would expect my friends to ask me for an explanation if they heard I had renounced my Catholic faith. [Tony is that: No 1, the subjunctive case, or No. 2, are you insinuating that Julian has renounced his faith? Julian has described how he attends St. Edward's - more than you do your parish. He's a devoted practicing Catholic. If No. 2, I won't have to type up any of these long handwritten tirades again for DD. - Punkt. - I won't even open them. - GS]
Let me give you an example of an "ad hominem" done by Clare Booth Luce. When she was in Congress, she said of another Congressman: "All his problems can be traced back to the time he was kicked in the head by a jackass." Later she said she regretted the remark because it offended charity. Nick goes way beyond the printed word when he says of me: "Orthodox railing which takes sinister pleasure in the belief ... etc." I don't apologize for my acceptance of the Church's new catechism, of Humanae Vitae, and the many wonderful writings of Pope John Paul II. There is no way this person (I myself) can hide his most deeply held convictions in private or in public behavior. No one can do otherwise who believes in judgement, purgatory, hell, and heaven. Remember what we memorized under Jim Ryan: "Tell me not in mournful numbers life is but an empty dream... Life is real, life is earnest and the grave is not its goal." In my old age, let me sing the praises of the Lord and the marvelous 2,000-years-old Church, "the pillar and ground of truth," he founded with its communion of saints, its sacraments, sacrifice of the Mass, its rich liturgical and prayer life, the real presence of Christ in the holy Eucharist, and the mother of Jesus caring for each one of us.. Sincerely in Christ.
3 Nov 98: a request was sent from a Diaspora widow to be removed from the mailing list and she "best wishes to all of you in your good work."
4 Nov 98 Joe Smith: Epistola ad...?: A correction to DD26, last page, last item. Instead of "This is USA, to Rome" it should be: USA, not Rome. Thanks. [Ooops. your handwriting was not at fault.] Enclosure: Op Ed piece on "same sex relationships." [It's a five-paragraph clarification of the so- called biblical Verbot on homosexuality which had more to do with idolatry than sex. It's not a big departure from previous JFS letters.]
As is obvious even to a cretan idiot, I'm working my way through a sticky wicket of questions and problems in terms of critical rationality, but also of primordial (or basic) belief, as opp. to knee- jerk institutional and penny-catechism 'theologies,' all due respect retained for 'naive' faith[s](s). I claim no particular infallibility and do not speak ex cathedra, except when enthroned in the bathroom and running out of toilet paper. I also do not present my head, heart, or guts on a silver platter to any ancient or modern authoritarians, whose authority seems more a matter of classic claims and proclamations, rather than of credible evidence or even of witness to basic belief itself, as opposed to statutory faith (Kant). I'm not part of or participator in any grand parades or in whatever illusory (and delusional?) power-and-glory schemes. (Just 'little ole me.' My inner child probably sees too many emperors without clothes, even as the adult tries to rescue values and people.)
Meantime, I understand the RCC is back playing the numbers game again, now claiming a billion (nominal) members. Statistical research and numerous polls, however, have shown that 3/4 of these 'members' are nonparticipants, do not attend regular services, do not buy the arcane RC sexual ethic, and do not buy 'infallibility' either. Locally, gainfully employed former friars (over 57 at recent count) apparently outnumber regional 'actives.' Jim Hartke, before his recent passing, wrote me they have the perfect formula for extinction: practically no candidates who last till ordination, guys still leaving, retiring, and dying: an increasingly diminished personnel. And, while normal married guys are often available, conservative celibates get the "go sign," when there at all. And Ratzinger continues his nervous reign of terror spooking poor theological dissidents, such as they are. It all looks like a huge herd of sheep. The 'remnant' I served in RC churches as organist was a mixed lot determinedly naive believers, thoughtless followers, the ominously silent and spookily subservient, people attracted by the artistic (and musical) pomp and circumstance, and a sprinkling of determined critics and really good folk trying to ride it all out into a more hopeful 'future.' Luckily, there were good cooks and brew-brothers among them, confiding their hopes and severe misgivings after a few snorts. [This sure doesn't reflect the province I see in Minor Matters nor the diocesan churches I see. Must be something in that Chicago water. - GS]
What today? Bless 'em all? Give 'em another snort? Appeal by Rome away from those naughty European and American disbelievers to emerging Third World churches isn't working either, my Indian and African student sources tell me. They believe, but they're not stupid. Whatever the case, I believe I should now honor earlier promises and lay off for a good while, unless the Holy Office brings down fire on my humble bungalow. Unlike Bill Carroll, I am not commissioned as he and his colleagues were by the Anglican Theological Society, when he wrote most of that book on human sexuality some years ago. I'm just poor little ole me. But, unlike ill-wishers, I've been out there working in the ecumenical hustings and learning a few things in seven denominational churches and seven RC ones. Surely, I was meant to learn something there, and speak from that experience. Anyway, there's no way I'll shut up. But I will spare DD further sparring for a good while now.[Emphasis added by editor.] I repeat my esteem for 'pious' believers, for friar teachers, classmates, and friends. To me and all, peace and justice. But don't let anyone shut down your mind, bind your heart, or taint your soul and spirit in the name of 'faith.' You deserve and are better than that. Oremus pro invicem.
4 Nov 98 Tony Lutz: Pax et bonum. I don't know John Miller's scholarly credits but I was surprised that he said I prattle. My dictionary defines the words as "to speak in a childish way, to babble." [Prattle was my word substitution. I studied various dictionaries and thesauruses to find the apt word. I chose it for the alternate meaning of "prate." I wish I'd left the more truly descriptive word in place. Chalk the substitution to my weariness after hours of retyping up your and Joe's long letters antiphonally all on one day. I'm human. I have a temper. In between letters, I scream, frustrated at having to type up letters you write to each other through me. Believe me, 'prattle' is my nice word. The longer the letters, the louder the screech. - GS] And I always thought I was talking [and talking and talking and talking... GS] about serious topics seriously, intelligently, and based on research. He says I equate dogma/belief with faith. Well, let's see what the new catechism says. "Faith ... is a free assent to the whole truth that God has revealed." It is a personal adherence to God and assent to his truth. Now what's the beef? Miller says the Gospel message must be reinterpreted by each age. Whatever happened to objective truth, to sin, to judgment? That's like the philosophy professor who criticized the Pope's recent Fides et Ratio encyclical. She said there is no such thing as objective reality. Each culture determines its own truth. That means that the Aztec nation was perfectly right in its cultural approval of human sacrifice to its devil gods and it's practice of cannibalism. Ugh. [Likewise the ugh Christians who discovered them, took their gold, and decimated them. - GS] Truly, you're pulling my leg. You can't be serious. On reading what Miller wrote, my wife said, "He doesn't believe that Christ promised the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit in his true church."
The Catholic church like its founder, does not condemn mankind, only sin. Condemnation and reward come after death and judgment. I don't belong to a touchy feelie church or one for wimps. I belong to a church that is counterculture, that is divisive because it preaches the gospel of truth, humility, and a message that goes contrary to our evil inclinations. To say the pope turned his back on Vatican II puts Miller among those who never read all 16 documents of Vatican II. He is calling names and, in effect, making our holy father out to be a heretic. The published counciliar documents are in harmony with all the other general councils of the church. The present pope was at all the sessions of Vatican II. He has signed onto all of its teachings and I heard he is very much in possession of all of his faculties.
What Miller says about homosexuality, that it is genetically determined, and is no longer cataloged by the American Psychiatric Association as a mental illness can best be understood in a balanced way if you read Chapter 1 of Psychiatrist Jeffrey Satinover's "Homosexuality and the Politics of Truth." No one through scientific studies and peer-review approval has ever proved that being gay is genetically determined. In 1973, the APA voted to take homosexuality off the approved list of psychiatric illnesses. This vote to normalize homosexuality was driven by politics and threats by homosexual activists and not by science. And the vote taken was not a truly democratic vote among the APA members.
Joe Smith, Cardinal Stepinac was a heroic defender of the faith. Where did you get the information that he knowingly collaborated with evil people doing evil deeds? Know that historical revisionism is alive and well today. Just remember that he was an enemy of Communism and the Yugoslavian variety was notoriously revengeful and lived by its lying propaganda. When I was in the novitiate a Croatian Franciscan talked to us. One side of his face was frozen from being tortured by the communists. He told us of a Franciscan priest being stripped naked, having horseshoes nailed to his feet, and beaten through his village. Really nice people those communists. You quote a John Loftus. I know a Protestant writer form Laurel, Maryland. He has an animus against anything Catholic. His name is John Loftus. Same person? Joe, if you've read anything about St. Edith Stein, you must know her as a great intellectual promoter of women's rights, and one who grew rapidly in holiness after her conversion. As an atheist she read St. Teresa of Avila's Autobiography in one sitting. On finishing it she said: "That is the truth." She then went and got instructions in the Catholic faith. Those Jews who complained of her beatification especially and then being canonized are a small, vocal minority of Jews. When the Nazi soldiers came for her for deportation to Auschwitz, she said to Rosa her converted sister: "Let us go die for our people." My wife talked to a Carmelite priest, Fr. Kierian Kavanaugh, vice postulator for her cause. He was one of 17 who concelebrated with the holy father at the canonization Mass. He said the Jewish physician was there who testified to one of the miracles accepted and some 80 Jewish relatives of Stein were present on 11 October in St. Peter's square for the celebration. Joe, Auschwitz was a small part of Stein's life. It was the great spiritual change within her that prepared her for the way she went to her death. There were many eye witnesses to all of this. And why were you so ungracious in saying Stein was a confused assistant of Dr. Husserl and you knew her through her apt writings on time and space? Those two concepts clash unless you explain yourself. Finally, we don't interfere in the internal affairs of the Jewish religion and the Jews should not interfere in our internal affairs. That is being intrusive busybodies. Sincerely.
PS: I don't have typewriter, computer, printer, or fax. Mea culpa. Those who disagree with my ideas make me hit the books. Wish they would do the same. The saying still holds: "You can't be up on what you're down on."
5 Nov 1998 Jack Bartz to Kurt Hartrich: Kurt, Greetings and salutations (isn't that an old timey expression). I had a telephone conversation with Dave Fichter about the Conveniat June 2000 celebration at Mayslake. Everything seems to be in order as far as approval for use of the grounds. Dave Fichter (815/439-6692) who is in charge then told me to talk with Florence Pipal (630/493l-4161) who is events coordinator. I will give you an update after that conversation.
One of our next tasks is to determine what events will take place (Saturday and Sunday). Publicity will need to be generated and a distribution list (media and others) determined. An appeal can go out now to get at least one contact person in each yearly "class" (based on first profession) to poll his members regarding communication about this event and to solicit attendance.
As far as general events is concerned, would it be appropriate to have a Mass of thanksgiving for blessings received this past millennium (or at least this past century) by those who were ministered to by the Province and held either inside or outside of the Mayslake Portiuncula (it being the replica of one of the birth places of the Order). Specific events can be dreamed up by each class as each feels would be appropriate to its interests. Such events could then be held both on and off site at Mayslake.
Concerning publicity, would there be anyone who can put together an information package that could accompany a press release for the local papers just prior to the Conveniat? Perhaps the package could include the names of those who ministered in the Chicago area in the past and where ministry has moved to in the present. Individual names of friars should be used so that these ministries could be personalized. For example, Father Oliver coordinated the retreat ministry at St. Peter's for many years. Hopefully, someone with access to the archives could do some writing and I would be able to get this information and a press release distributed to the local media. This would be an opportunity to remind people of the presence and impact of the friars and the spirit of St. Francis in this area.
What are your thoughts for moving forward with the planning for this event? Peace and everything good. Jack
6 Nov 1998: Ron Pfeifer: Hi! May good things come to your wonderful family. Thank you and Gayle and the children for making my visit a delightful experience this past July. I addressed this envelope in August but did other things.
I ran into the Mooneys on the path to Hidden Lake in Glacier National Park in Montana on the way back home. The trip back was good. I slept 12 nights in the pickup and put 3,902 miles on the odometer to total 328,000 miles. Scot Kuhle tried to tell me there was some rust on the bottom of the door on the truck!
Everyone who participated in this communion added to the value of my experience. I tend to be more into activities than talking. I, also, listened more than I talked. With so many stories for you to listen to, some inaccuracies were printed in the DD26. [I wrote: "...He works for the state of Iowa as a nursing home, day care inspector, has three kids and 2 grandchildren. He had pictures to prove it." I also misspelled his name as "Pfeiffer". That's what you get when you transplant an Irishman into the midst of erudite Germans. JB]
The following is correct. Ron Pfeifer works for the state of Iowa as a project manger and a child day care consultant. As project manager, I manage contracts with private providers who provide family centered services, family preservation, foster family treatment services and foster care as well as another purchase of service system to provide services to adults. As a child day care consultant I license child day care centers in Southwest Iowa.
As far as family - I have four children: one daughter, three sons and four grandsons. I brought pictures to share this experience of mine. I was not out to prove anything. Do I detect anything between the letters in the words or between the lines? [Only that your pride in your children and your grandchildren was refreshingly obvious. JB] Jack, seriously, you can improve yourself by listening to Gayle more. [Amen from me. Triple Alleluia from [wife] Gayle! JB] And, especially to your son before sunset. (That was a great story.) [I believe I told this story in a previous DD, but I love re-telling it. Ask and I will. JB]
You and Gael Stahl are great human beings for doing the Diaspora Digest. I love you.
9 Nov 98 Keith Leykam: I would like to get in touch with some old classmates. I'd really appreciate hearing form old friends and classmates who went to St. Joe's from 1950-1955. My heart and soul have been back to the Sem many times.
Remember how we caught those blue gill on safety pins, because we didn't have regular fish hooks? Second Lake by the grotto was the best place to fish.
Some of my favorite memories were opening the baseball season with Dick Lohkamp by playing catch on the tennis courts, because the fields were too wet and the temperature was around 30 degrees. Cutting hair with Wally Spivey, who always had a grin on his face, no matter how he felt. Taking a walk around the lakes and saying a prayer going past the Portiuncula Chapel would ease the pain of homesickness, when we just got back from summer or Christmas vacation.
Project work for Fr. Gentil, planting those oak trees by Second Lake. I wonder how big they are now; if they're still there. By the way, Father, I never learned any more Polish since I blurted out "Guvino" (sp?) going past your subrector office. Boy, I sure didn't know you knew what that meant! I remember getting on varsity baseball my junior year and getting my "J." The varsity club was just a hole-in-the-wall, but it meant so much to be voted in.
How about some of our terminology? The toe jams where we had showers for our feet. Just walking in there would kill your appetite for a T-bone steak. The smoking door by the cinder path, was the closest place to the building we could smoke. Haven't had a 'weed' for 30 years. First and Second "Nines" ball fields. Remember 'chasing' for hot dogs, bellywash, and varnish bread on Sunday mornings? I couldn't imagine having hot dogs for breakfast, but damn, they were good. [What was that varnish bread? - GS]
Well, like Dean Martin would sing, "Memories are made of this."
I miss you all and God bless you all. Keith Leykam, 5581 Country Club Lane, Washington MO 63090. [That looks like a new address. I had 203 Main. - GS]
9 Nov 1998: Jack Bartz to Kurt Hartrich: As I indicated in my last e-mail to you I would give you an update as soon as I had made contact with the Events Coordinator at the Mayslake property, Mrs. Florence Pipal. You probably know her. She said she worked with Jonathan Foster to promote Mayslake Ministries before that work ended at Mayslake Retreat House. She assured me we have booked and would have the grounds and the Portiuncula for our date. We can now go forward with more detailed planning of the event.
I have two items in mind at this time. First, I'm hoping Zeke Stahl will be able to get the word out to the Diaspora, and the Province members who receive it, that this event will occur and that we will need contact persons for each class to call and invite its members to come to the event and plan whatever activities each class is wanting to do.
Second, I would like someone who has access to the Province information about ministry in the Chicago metropolitan area to prepare a packet that can be used in conjunction with a press release a few months before the June 2000 event. The information would include the past 100 years and current ministry by the Franciscans in the Chicago area.
What do you suggest for moving forward with the planning for this event? What activities would the Province members like to have at this event? Who would be a Province contact person to get communication into the Province media? What other suggestions and resources do you think should be pursued?
Thank you for your help with this project. Peace and all things good to you. [Great news, huh, Jack? Now I'm in fear and trembling until I can get to the office and verify that our municipal league's annual conference isn't that weekend. I don't want to start a tradition of having to miss our conveniats. Seven of our 14-member staff have been laid off. I'm still hanging on by my teeth skin, since I lost more staff than anyone. GS]
11 Nov 1998 Scot Kuhle: It's Veteran's Day and I am having the day to relax. Have spent the morning reading my latest copy of Discover. I found Muskie's e-mail address last week in the Diaspora Digest and so have been in touch. Thanks for all the work you do to help us all stay in contact.
Nov 11 1998: Bertin (Bill) Miller: (Who in 1950 entered Mayslake.) Time to connect with the brethren in the DD. I read it faithfully and really enjoy the depth and the width of knowledge evolving from our brothers and sisters in the diaspora. Just a few notes on my own journey. I have been in clergy and religious service or "repair" for many years. The last six of these are working with the men who have broken trust and are now post-treatment and\or prison and with no place to go. RECON, as it is called, provides these men with a safe managed recovery residential option with opportunity to train for alternative occupation if the dioceses or communities have no place for them. To date over 50 have resided and all but nine have gone on to either re-entry into their entities or to lay life. It has been exciting and humbling as I work in the shadow of these men hoping that they can get on with their lives.
In addition to the recovery work, we have the Il Ritiro in Dittmer with rooms for visitors who might just pass through eastern Missouri. Just let me know when. Have been finding some great reading in Diarmuid O Murchu's book Reclaiming Spirituality. It resonates with ideas from many in the DD and especially with some of the ideas in the (#25 & #26 DD). I recommend it as great insight into religion and its effect on spirituality.
Thanks for the efforts in making this forum such a wonderful means to keep connected with so many wonderful friends and friars in our extended "family." Pray for me and those I serve.
11 Nov 1998 John Miller (Gael had recommended Dakota: A Spiritual Journey by Kathleen Norris.) Just got Dakota from the library. After reading a few chapters, this is a book one should own and reread.
14 Nov 1998 John Miller: I'm almost finished reading DAKOTA, have put it down many times, and don't want to really finish it as I feel I'm losing a "soul mate." Being a farmer, at heart, at least part time, and having had some of the experiences of losing hay crops, animals, sweating, swearing, bleeding, broken hopes and bones, sleepless nights and helping in births, give Sandy and me great familiarity with her subject matter, but never so eloquently written. Her chapter on "Getting to Hope" was particularly touching, making leading a spiritual life part of fully living and fully being aware of your connections.
I must admit that I could never live where she (Kathleen Norris) is, and generally dislike the plains of Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, & Iowa for its weather and lack of what I saw as beauty. I've never been to the plains of Dakota, just the Black Hills, but our friend Steve Rooney and his wife drove through there this past summer, on the way to Montana, and he related stories about its desolate landscape, where no people seemed to be. He stopped in several "towns" to talk to some of the folks, and had never experienced anything like it. He's a good old Southern Illinois boy (Robinson) who has more charm and gab than most people, but the isolation in the Western Dakota and Eastern Montana areas was more than he'd ever seen in Southern Illinois. He was genuinely impressed with the people.
But we like trees and mountains, and unlike some of the Plains folks, don't feel "they hem you in." We will miss the oaks and maples of Illinois but not the humidity and lack of any Springtime. Fall is beautiful here, but Winters are miserable, damp and cold. The dry climate of Southwestern Montana should suit, we hope. John
[I can't think of anything more beautiful than the Plains, but you are in the majority. Besides, Montana has the high plains. Lewis, Clark, et al. - and me - constitute a vocal minority.]
11 Nov 99 Barry Schneider: [My friend Charlie Fenton ran into Barry at the Nashville golf course where Charlie works. Charlie called me when he overheard Barry say he was a Franciscan. He got Barry, who was visiting, on the phone with me. Barry said he's beginning a six-month sabbatical to tour friaries in Texas and Alaska. He said Al Merz, Gary Berhnardt, Steve Suding are in Nashville and Tom Aldsworth was due to visit that evening. Your editor has had no contact with them to date GS.]
13 Nov 98 Joe Smith: Final memo to DD. I owe you $150, sweetheart. - Old irrepressible me cannot repress one final footnote (believe this!!) [Does anybody?]
I was taken aback that the Vatican, whose constant PR news these days is really quite an exercise, has now announced it will let scholars examine Inquisition documents to see "if mistakes were made" (like oops, I didn't bring down that digit). I told my wife, who quoted revisionists saying it wasn't all that bad, that - sure - after all, when they had pulled out your fingernails, they did let you go with a warning. So why all the whining? South America also benefitted from this draconian enforcement of the faith. In 1665 Peru, they printed programs (I've examined them) where after Solemn Mass (with Palestrina choir) they burned heretics, Jews, and gays at the stake (wiener-roast, cook-out style?). They were 'compassionate,' however, and garrotted Jews who converted before they were incinerated (so they wouldn't hurt) and ashes strewn on the garbage dump (all dutifully documented, like the Nazis did).
Today, of course, we're more civilized and are largely against cruel and unusual punishment. Anyway, we can no longer respectfully get away with it. Meantime, "The Holy Office" continues under an all new title (Doctrine of the Faith or whatever) but all old attitude. Check with psychologically skewered Hans Kung and Chas. Curran on that. (Check also with Tom Aldworth's 'conversion from Hans Kung.) Let's quit kidding ourselves, kiddies. There's no real repentance here, unless I've missed a crucial ingredient like real leveling and all that (cut the crap!). No metanoia change of heart in evidence here. So do we fool stupid people and God too on justice issues? But there's hope. The Vatican forgave and rehabbed Galileo and now actually agrees the earth revolves around the sun. What's next? Maybe that sex can actually be good for one, and even better for two. Love, Joe S. (Onion-ist). [The Onion refers to the several funny tabloids he has sent Gael.]
16 Nov 1998 Dalton Roberts (A Tennessee picker, columnist, speaker, ex-politician & Gael's spiritual director): I spent most of the morning reading and meditating on some of the thoughts in Diaspora Digest. Thanks for the feast. I loved the way everyone rallied to Kay Skonieczny when Ben died unexpectedly and much too soon. Most of all, I loved the way she responded. Through her pain she was coming through with spiritual power. To use a phrase from Philip Windolph, she didn't "crawl back into herself." I really liked his thoughts along that line.
It may not be amusing to you, but I was deeply amused at all the description of your "heresy trial." I had one of my own in another church and it brought back amusing memories of my own. Some correspondent described your case as a problem with your thought patterns. I am aware that you have different and provocative thought patterns at times but heresy trials are never due to differing thought patterns but to the inherent problem of discussing beliefs and belief systems.
Theology is a fuzzy thing to discuss. Otherwise, we would not have a world full of differing churches. When we say "God" in any part of the world, it is likely to mean something different than it will in another part. Same with Father, Son and Holy Spirit among Christians.
I have always been fascinated at the way Pentecostals almost always say "Holy Ghost" rather than "Holy Spirit." In fact, they even pronounce it differently, running the two words into one "holyghost," making it sound more like "holocaust."
The fact that you and the heresy committee sat there and interacted without either understanding the other shows how difficult it is for us to speak plainly and clearly about our beliefs. Even if we do speak plainly, the hearers will hear from the context of their own internalized frame of reference.
Those who called me on the carpet were so somber they would have frozen great jubilation in mid-air. I was struggling to keep from laughing for the angels they had dancing on their pin-head were putting on a different kind of show for me. But it is never safe to laugh in the face of a somber theologian. Great men have been barbecued at the stake for it.
I sure loved Kay's description of Ben as a "drama king." All great preachers, writers, musicians and others in the creative endeavors must be good drama kings. Jesus was the drama king supreme. Much love to you my friend.
19 Nov 1998: Jack Bartz and Kurt Hartrich Re Y2K Conveniat. Hello and Happy Thanksgiving! Since Kurt is requesting to hear more of the details from us about the Conveniat at Mayslake on the second weekend of June 2000, I thought I would send along his note and ask for your opinion.
I am of a mind set at this time to hold the Conveniat on Saturday (rather than on Sunday), 10 AM to 4 PM on the grounds of the Portiuncula that have been reserved for us by request of the DuPage County Forest Preserve, which now owns the property. This is intended to be a picnic with each class being responsible for contacting and arranging for any events each class would like to undertake or not. It is hoped that the DD would be able to get the word out also to former members asking for their help. That is about the size of it, not very complicated at all. The only suggested event for all, besides picnicking and visiting the grounds, would be the following.
I had proposed having a mass at the Portiuncula as perhaps a way to interest more of the current members of the Province to attend an event that has the notion of being in thanksgiving for being able to serve the people in this metropolitan area over the past century, if not millennium.
Do you have any suggestions about the shape of this event so that I can get back to Kurt (see his memo below)? I would appreciate hearing your thoughts - assuming that they are able to be shared! Peace and everything swell to you! Jack Bartz
Reply from Kurt 11/18/98: I am responding to any number of e-mails that you have sent me since the beginning of November. I do appreciate your keeping me completely up to date about your coordinating efforts for the June, 2000, reunion on the Mayslake grounds. It's good to know that all the channels have been used in order to reserve the Mayslake grounds for the event. I realize that we have not definitively decided on whether we would hold this on a Saturday or a Sunday, but I think it might be better to think in terms of Saturday because of some parochial commitments that might interfere with a Sunday.
Or, are you really thinking of the reunion spanning both a Saturday and a Sunday? If so, we should make that clear as well. True, a Saturday in June could also be problematic in terms of parochial ministry for weddings, but we'll just have to work around that. As the date grows nearer, I think we here in the Provincial Office can put together something about the current ministry sites in the Chicago/Joliet area that could be used as a press release. I think we would have to be judicious in terms of what the focus of that release might be because getting too much into past history would lengthen it significantly making the release not all that usable for the press. I also think we would to avoid somewhat highlighting any one friar although reference could be made to some of the major friar-players from the past. We have plenty of time to detail and focus that in the months ahead.
Why don't you, Gael, Jack Brennan, and perhaps a few others communicate by e-mail to nail down the exact date and the hours for the reunion on that date? This could then be circulated in the next issue of Diaspora Digest so that people could be sure to have it on their calendars. Once that is determined exactly I will make sure it is also published in our Province newsletter, Minor Matters.
Having a Mass on the grounds in conjunction with this event would be perfectly OK with me if the planning group would see this as something appropriate and advantageous. All we would really have to do is make sure we had the appropriate setting and the necessary utensils and ingredients.
Things continue to be busy here in the Provincial Office. We just had two friars die on November 11th (Owen Blum and Pat Curtis), so John Doctor and I were involved in those funeral liturgies. I find myself spending a bit more time on Quincy University matters these days in order to help facilitate the capital campaign and address some things with the Board of Trustees of the university. We also have a number of major projects going on here in the Province at the present time which means that some attention to those details must be done. However, I'm sure we all are busy and have quite enough to keep us occupied.
Take good care of yourself, Jack, and thanks for all you have done and are doing to make this event happen. Do have a very happy and festive Thanksgiving. May the Lord bless you and keep you always. Fraternally, Kurt
[I'll be glad to say, for starters, that a day to mill with each other, friars with current apostolate commitments, and friars who don't, is perfect for Saturday. And an open-air Mass just fine with me. But I think most of our classes will need a long Saturday night or Sunday to continue or own conversations. I haven't seen some of my classmates in 30 years. I need more time than Saturday afternoon. Besides, we need to formulate a schedule. Time to introduce families. Time to tell what we're doing. Time to laugh about the old days. Time to tell about now. Time to take pictures. Time to examine the photographs. Every event should have a time in the schedule. Gaelzeke.]
20 Nov 98 Bill McGee: sent a set of greeting cards decorated with his photographs, so unbelievably artistic they may have been paintings. He and Alice have been long 'retired,' so he bikes on hundreds- of-miles treks, she scours the Earth doing peacekeeping and justicekeeping. He got poison oak backpacking with our friend Sky Chaney, also of Santa Rosa, Calif., otherwise, he's hale and hearty. He says "the newsletters are a devotion of love. You just hang in there for the Franks and their wives and their friends. Are you ever in low gear, or much like Alice?" [Alice went to and invited Mike Mooney to the demonstration against the School of the Americas in Columbus, Ga. the first weekend of December. In Nashville, Mike picked up Charlie Fenton and a friend of Charlie's to join a few thousand, including Frank Coens, Jim Hoffman, Due Pham, Joe Zimmermann, Andy Buvala, Ken Rosswog, and Mike Cusato of Sacred Heart Province, and many nonfriars from Nashville to cross the military's line to get arrested. They were shipped out instead. It was an Emmaus breaking of the bread experience for Mike and Charlie, who did Resurrection City together 30 years ago and Mike was jailed with Ralph Abernathy. - I was working the SOA weekend and missed the reunion. GS]
Bill McGee says "Tony Lutz and Joe Smith must love having a drum to play counterpoint in DD. Love lasts beyond gimmicks of faith tricks that seem to have been going on for years in the hands of better and more.
"What's included is a bit of my work on cards in appreciation for your love for us and your care that Jesus is alive and well in you and whom you love."
30 Nov 98 Alan Hoffman: has a new address: 178 Elice Cir., Hot Springs AR 71913. Bernadine said in their holiday newsletter that last year Alan was in the hospital for the first time in 40 years. His Charcot Foot moved to cellulitis from foot to knee, to deterioration of some bones in his foot, to two surgeries. Bones in his foot were removed and bone chips from his hip were transplanted in his foot. He spent months in bed or wheelchair. When the foot healed, his diabetes got out of control. At 61, he is looking at early retirement from being vice president of Garland County Community College in Hot Springs, Ariz. They like the western N.C. areas of Charlotte and Asheville where Bernadine's parents have moved. [Plenty of us friars and fringers live from Memphis to western N.C. GS]
In July they're going to Austria and Italy. Last summer they were at Glacier, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons and Pikes Peak. Daughter Karen will finish her dissertation and graduate next May from St. Louis Univ. Their e-mail is: bernhoff of ipa.net. - Alan added a note thanking us for DD and the marvelous job we do.
1 Dec 98 Tom Shannon made the cover of Commonweal: "Cow or human? Tom Shannon on embryo hybrids. The ethics of stem-cell research." His is clear, well-reasoned prose. And he resolves the dilemma of personhood with Duns Scotus's idea of 'common nature' and his principle of individuation. (If Frank Flinn had co-authored with Tom, they'd have gotten Gerard Manley Hopkins and inscape into the mix too.) I'm trying to remember the Latin Scotistic term: was it haecceitas, suigeneity?
A succeeding Commonweal carried lots of letters disagreeing with Scotistic Shannon, including Sidney Callahan, one of my favorite writers anywhere. Great exchanges. Tom got the last word. [At least until another Commonweal comes in.]
2 Dec 98 Gene Katoski's Senior Friars Talk: continues Matt Kiemen's and Greg Kemner's Brazil stories, a letter from Jason Kommer at Mayslake Village. He mentions that Owen Blum died Nov. 10th and in December Robert Behnen turned 65, Medard is 83, Cal Giesen and Vince Elsen 77, Michel LeMier is 76, and Joe Hemmer 71. He has a little test, no tricks. Read this sentence: FINISHED FILES ARE THE RESULT OF YEARS OF SCIENTIFIC STUDY COMBINED WITH THE EXPERIENCE OF YEARS. Now count the Fs in the sentence. Count once only, said GK. But I'll give you two. Didn't help me. Answer will be below.
GK writes: Always enjoy DD. One last chance for Peg Dates. I will ask Larry Pizon of Padua.
3 Dec 98 Jack Bartz: sent a Chicago Tribune magazine article about the national storytelling festival that originated in 1973 and continues at Jonesborough in East Tennessee, the oldest town in the state. It was the first storytelling event of the type. Now there are more than 300 festivals in the country and some storytellers make a living telling. Ben Skonieczny would have been a great participant. I wrote a long feature story about the Jonesborough event in 1983 for a Nashville magazine and my newspaper. Haven't been back since 1984. First met young Rep. Al Gore there that year, standing by himself away from the crowd.
4 Dec 98 Carroll Mizicko sent annual Xmas letter: He's still at Little Flower parish in Monroe, La. Dropped K-8 grades due to lack of enrollment but kept the preschool program. 200-family parish is vibrant. 112 signed up for various ministries. Great youth and adults choirs. Bob Mizicko is still in Brazil, Mel in Oak Park, Ill. Carroll said he missed Gael at the Brennan's in July. "It was great to see the guys and in some cases their significant others.
7 Dec 98 Francis Roethli's annual Xmas letter: This marks his family's eighth year at Macae. A phone system was installed giving him a new number (024) 772-1408. Eldest, Eddie, is 18 so had to sign up for armed forces and went for his driver's license. Two younger sons, 16 and 11, having to study harder this year. On Jan. 16 they go to Santarem for a month again to be with Elisia's family and their friends.
8 Dec 98 Chas Cantlon and Margie's 6-page newsletter: You have to see to appreciate the energy. Lots of kids' news. Margie found running the YMCA grew into a lot of work. Chas equally busy with the group home he runs. This is his 20th year as a mobile DJ. Uses CDS now. Then there's the two- pager about their nudist group and all the work that involves, though they're turning some of the work over to others.
2 Dec 98 Joe Smith: "Last remark for DD [has your doc given you bad news or are you just feeling eschatological?] A final step in the "progressive repentance process for the president: Get a plenary indulgence by visiting the pope as he inaugurates the new century: the 16th!"
Joe also sent the autumn issue of Conscience: a news journal of prochoice Catholic opinion.His note was inserted inside where he underlined this sentence: "Following the lead of his predecessors, Pope John Paul II (1978- ) has diligently advocated for human rights in the civil society, while many note, taking a narrow view of women's human rights and human right in the church." [Emphasis added by Joe.]
14 Dec 1998 Jack Bartz on Mayslake: By Laura Zahn Pohl; SPECIAL TO THE TRIBUNE Chicago Tribune, 12/14/98, Section 2, p. 1
After looking over nine proposals for the St. Paschal Friary at Mayslake, DuPage County Forest Preserve District commissioners have decided that four proposals by public and not-for-profit groups would best suit the Oak Brook property.
"Commissioners felt that a commercial use would restrict the public's use of the property," Dan Griffin, manager of operations for the Forest Preserve District, said after a meeting of the district's Operations Committee last week. "They also had concerns about building large parking lots on the grounds, which would take away open space."
A request for proposals to develop the deteriorating friary resulted in 22 groups touring the 92,000-square-foot facility. Nine organizations met the Oct. 20 deadline, with formal proposals ranging from senior housing and arts venues to retail stores and a religious training facility.
The groups making the committee's final cut are the DuPage Fine Arts Coalition, which wants to create a fine arts campus and gardens; Midwest Center for the Arts and Humanities, which proposed a center to support the arts and humanities; Great Lakes Puppetry Center, which wants to develop a family-oriented theater and workshop program in puppetry; and the DuPage Housing Authority, which would transform the friary into 80 rental units for senior citizens.
The decision to move toward these uses should expedite the renovation process, said committee Chairwoman Olivia Gow (R-Elmhurst).
"The commercial proposals would require legislation" to amend the Forest Preserve District authority, Gow said. "And the longer we don't take care of the building, the more it deteriorates. It's been sitting there for 5 « years, and it hasn't been open to the public-even though the public is paying for it."
The Forest Preserve bought the 90-acre Mayslake property for $17.5 million after voters approved a bond issue in 1992.
14 Dec 98 Juvenal Carlson: Juvie's Christmas newsletter (have I mentioned Luis Runde sends monthly, newsy letters from Nicaragua?) includes a Christmas greeting decorated by an "itsy bitsy undernourished Brazilian tyke." - He tells of the Cristoval bash that filled the 40,000-seat soccer stadium for three days before Ash Wednesday. Sounded like a rowdy, happy revival. It emptied the Carnival streets of Santarem. Also, 15,000 attended an outdoor Mass to end a Mission after 24,300 families were visited in the months before it took place. - On Nov. 29, in preparation for the feat of the Immaculate Conception, their patroness, 100,000 took part in a four-hour procession. There are 300,000 people in Santarem.
Juvie, after 41 years, finally joined a march on Brazil's Independence Day to accompany the 700 youth he's helping keep off the streets. He's the vicar general of the diocese now.
15 Dec 98 Jerry Etzkorn sent annual Xmas letter: Who said that retirement was boring? After spending last Christmas and New Years with our daughter Karen (now Kierin) in the Dobbs Ferry-Mt. Kisko NY area, we returned briefly to Tennessee before flying to Spain in February. I am working on a text, four manuscripts of which are in Spain, where they don't seem to have microfilming facilities and don't answer correspondence. Thanks in great part to Fr. Agosti Boadas, a Catalan Franciscan, I was able to consult and describe the four manuscripts in Barcelona, Tarragona, Tortosa and Burgo de Osma (we were locked in the latter's cathedral from 3-8 PM while the Monsignor-Archivist was busy elsewhere). After the first week, Linda, Linda's Mom Rita, and I went for a week to the southern coast of Spain, east of Malaga and then for a third week to Portugal in the resort town of Albufieri: the Brits were there in force. All in all we had a great time: shopping, sight-seeing and occasionally golfing (for me).
In March, thanks to the gracious hospitality of a colleague, I spent a week in Atlanta while searching for sources in the text he's working on at Emory University, whose library facilities are absolutely fabulous, including a lot of electronic search-engines on CD-Roms.
In the Spring, we learned that the National Endowment for the Humanities had withdrawn funding from the research project involving the critical editing of the philosophical works of Duns Scotus, a project which had been on-going at the Franciscan Institute of St. Bonaventure University for 15 years. However, the research group managed to get an emergency grant from the NEH in order to complete work on two volumes, the research of which had been in progress for over 5 years. As a result, Linda and I went back to the Franciscan Institute from June 1 until August 15. The team got the job done and the two volumes should be in print by the end of 1999. It was good to see old friends again: the wonderful faculty and staff that make St. Bonaventure University what it is! While in the Olean area, we were happy to be able to visit with our son Kevin who is working for Paychex in Rochester. We got together for a couple of rounds of golf and some great barbecues at a mutual friend's home in the Wellsville area. We were only too glad to get back home after living out of suitcases for two and a half months.
During the last week of July, our ordination class had its third (biennial) reunion, this time in Dittmer, MO at a retiro of the St. Louis Franciscans. Present were Frs. Juvenal Carlson from Brazil, Lambert Leykam from Fort Worth, Gale White from Mineola Texas, Bob Pahler from Green, Ohio. Paul and Marilyn Shields came from South Salem, NY and the Etzkorns from Fairfield Glade. Missing was Fr. Barry Schneider from Iron River, Wisc. Who couldn't get away. We had only one rule: whoever told the same joke twice, had to do the dishes.
After graduating from Indiana Inst. of Technology, our son Alan was hired by the Essex Group in March and assigned to one of their plants in Pana, Illinois, not too far from Linda's mom's place in Springfield. However, Essex headquarters announced in August that the Pana facility was being closed and Alan was kept on the payroll until October. In the meantime, he spent a lot of time and travel trying to get a lateral move within the Essex Corp. and was finally hired in early October by the Pawtucket, Rhode Island plant. He now is installed (more permanently we hope) in East Providence, RI, and will -- happily for us! -- be coming down here for Christmas.
Kierin is back teaching ballroom dancing after a stint as the "factotum" in an exercise parlor where she was secretary, in charge of scheduling, searching for instructors and probably coffee-maker par excellence. We admired her spunk when she asked for a raise. When refused, she served them notice and is back doing what she loves - and is pretty darn good at! (in our obviously unbiased opinion).
I made a brief visit to St. Louis at the end of August to play in the Stan Musial Golf classic which supports two homes in the St. Louis area for unwed mothers. In October, I went back to St. Louis with a stopover to visit Alan and play some golf. I spent a week at the St.Louis University's Vatican Film Library looking for sources for the medieval text I'm editing.
At the beginning of November, we got a call from Hilton Head from Jerry's brother Larry, inviting us down for a couple of days of golf. Linda even got in some shopping! On the way back, we stopped over to play golf at the Cliffs of Glassy, a spectacular mountain course at about 3,000 ft. at the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge mountains in northern South Carolina. Actually, I would have done more good with a camera than I did with my golf clubs!
We were very happy to have Linda's Mom Rita and her step-father Phil plus Gordon, Linda and David Wilson for Thanksgiving. It was so nice to have family and friends with whom to celebrate. Otherwise, nothing much is happening around here! Hope all of you have a Blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with joy and happiness.
16 Dec 98 Richard Mayer: We're doing well health-wise as I approach 60. Our latest interest is ballroom dancing. Hey, I'm getting pretty good, and it helps us keep fit. Merry Christmas.
17 Dec 98 Zangs' Christmas letter: Jim and Mary told about moving to Oak Park, Illinois, in July after Jim's youthful retirement from the Bureau of Prisons. All their kids have graduated or are graduating and are in the D.C.-Baltimore area. Jim and Mary have that back-home feeling and like the cheap air fares to visit the kids. Nice touch, huh? Most parents make the kids move out. Jim and Mary did the moving away.
18 Dec 98 Seidl's Xmas letter: Rita rendered a beautiful angels and creche card based on a Br. Jim Dickinson OFM design. She visualized it while flying in from Minnesota to Illinois. She had an epiphany of the glory of God. Her urge to sing out with joy reminded me of "the glory of God shining like shook foil." Ralph inserted a donation for DD. They share a cardiologist. Rita is on an aspirin a day to avoid further blockages or blood clots in the arteries and doing okay. Ralph had a wake-up call in August -- erratic heart beat. That's okay too with medication for hypertension. Jose was taken off he medication for seizures but it's hampered his ability to speak. When home from his residence center, R&R help him improve his language skills.
In a personal note, Ralph says they are looking forward to the reunion in 2000. He says the MTD Enterprises on the back of the card is the initials of their friend whose computer printed the card.
19 Dec 98 Julian Woods: Sent a heartwarming card and greeting and copy of his essay letter. He's 82 now and doesn't look or act it. As for the media, investigator, Congress, etc., he says: Enough already. - But we've all heard too much about monicagate and impeachgate, so I'll not recap it here.
20 Dec 98 GK sent Senior Friars and note: Hope you and yours have great 1999. Am waiting for DD27. Happy you all love Franciscanism.
21 Dec 98 Joan Porche: Her annual tells of three graduations in the family. The most intriguing for me was the B.A. in fiction writing Jeni got from Columbia College. Jeni has been teaching screen writing also. Her full-time job is teaching at Morgan Park High School. Joan has resigned from Chicago Public Schools after 28 years to work full time at Governors State Univ. where she had developed the new Master of Social Work Program. They've enclosed the back deck off from the mosquitoes to log more time in the hammock. Jack died 11 years ago next April.
24 Dec 1998: Steve Csotty: Please send all future copies to csottys of juno.com Thanks.
25 Dec 1998 Gael and Susan Stahl: We haven't written since Dec 96. Sorry. I believe I (Gael) told you then that in January 1997 I was invited to the Baker Street Irregulars' dinner in New York in January, a once in a lifetime experience. In March 1998 the Chicago STUDS invited me to their annual dinner (named for the first Holmes story, "A Study in Scarlet," and invested me as a member, making me an official STUD. - Quit snickering.
In the fall of 1997, I (Susan) began substitute teaching part-time while also working at the Hermitage and began getting a master's in special education. In August this year I got a full-time job teaching at Westminster, a private school in Nashville. Teaching is so different from gardening. The work is harder and results much more difficult to define. Since there are all boys in my classroom, I am attempting to understand why sports and nintendo play such a pivotal role in their lives. The best part of the day for them is always recess playing football, soccer or just throwing the ball at each other. Perhaps the success of each day is just making it through that day but then there is always homework to do.
I've (Gael) been so unhinged by the looming Y2K computer problems, El Nino, and the impeachment for sex play that I've laid low and just put out my newspaper twice a month and nine or 10 newsletters for current Sherlockians and former friars. So, if you don't get those or write e-mail, that's where I'm hiding out.
Almost forgot. In October 1997 we finally got to Assisi in Umbria, a lifetime goal. Earthquakes kept us out of the churches but our bonus was 10 days of visits to quite a few cities/towns north of there, our favorites being Arezzo (saw Francis' robe there), Siena, Venice, Mantua, Verona, Padua, Trent, and Milan. On the way home we spent 10 glorious days with the Sextons at Dijon, the Wallisches in Nuremburg, and the Stahl relatives at Oberselters and environs.
Our health has been splendid but Al Stahl died just over a year ago and my (Susan's) dad died in June. Pascale and Catherine Sexton visited us at that time for three and six weeks respectively during the hottest days of the year, but loved it. I visited the Wrays in East Tennessee with Pascale and flew with her and Catherine to visit New Orleans. Louie Crispino was our gracious host and guide.
After the Sherlockian festivities in New York City in January, I (Gael) was able to visit my sister Marilyn at her new place 40 miles up the Hudson River. As she did for years in Washington D.C., she showed me the environs: West Point, the nuns' home she administers, and down to New Jersey to drop me off at the McKeons. On August 1, Tom and Viki McKeon made me a godfather again (just after I'd raised my fifth godchild to adulthood), so Susan and I flew up for the baptism and weekend party. A lavish loving affair. Three weeks later, my annual six-man canoe float crew achieved another life-goal. We paddled down the Missouri River in Montana (the Umbria of America) after visiting Glacier Park. We bathed in history for 10 days, stopped at four campsites of Lewis and Clark, relived their Journals, the White Cliffs, the living museums, and emerged to find that the stock market had lost 2,000 points and our airline, Northwest, was on strike. Both turned out well.
I (Susan) didn't have a free moment once school started, but have two weeks off at Christmas. I plan to buzz around the state in my new car and try out the cruise control. So don't be surprised if I show up between now and Jan. 4.
Thanks for staying in touch, the calls, the letters, the visits. Thanks to email, some of you are getting this a couple of days earlier than others. In fact, before Christmas even. That's rare. Even though this letter doesn't have much zing (like those in odd-numbered years?), holiday peace and joy is better for you. That's where the real zing is.
26 Dec 98 Mike Mooney: Doubt thou the stars are fire, doubt that the sun doth move, doubt truth to be a liar, but never doubt you'd be the first one to get an e-mail from your pitiful brother who with the grace of god has just dragged his ass into the 20th century. Three cheers for your patience. I'm as surprised as you.
We had one of the most peaceful and enjoyable Christmases in memory. Kids all home, the usual Christmas Eve liturgy with lots of folks and dinner afterward, and a very special Christmas day with just the kids, lots of kisses and tears - just what we love.
Thanks for the articles on Stokley [Carmichael]. I always loved his energy and his style. He let you know what he believed in and seemed to live out his dreams more than most men. I liked him. You asked about Gethsemani Abbey. I did find it and had a wonderful visit with my old friend, John Raub, now Fr. Jacob. I got there at Vespers and left a note for him. I wasn't planning on going to Mass at 6 a.m., but for some mystic reason I was up at 5:30 so I went for Lauds and Mass and John was in there looking for me. We went to a private dining area and talked till 11 a.m. The abbot came down to visit awhile and find out how things went at the School of the Americas action. His name is Tim Kelley or Healey and lots of fun. We laughed our asses off for about two more hours. John is deep into the Course on Miracles and wants to share experiences about it when Judy and I come down [on their way to Florida, 21-22 January].
There's a box at the top of the screen that says send, I'm going to click on the fucker and pray something good happens. I see nowhere to put an address so shall assume my machine knows this. Peace friends. Hamlet.
[His email print-out came to me via the U.S. Postal Service. His e-ddress, moonjam of netdirect.net, has been deactivated while Judy and Mike (jam?) travel to Key West until April.]
29 Dec 1998 Bill Bergman: HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND WELCOME TO 1999. Wanted to let you know that we have made some changes over the last few months.
Our mailing address has changed to the following: Bergman & Associates, Inc., 6830 NE Bothell Way, C442, Kenmore, WA 98028-3551
E-mail address has changed to the following: billbergman of email.msn.com
If you need to reach me by cell phone: 206.619.3846
Thanks for making these changes
31 Dec 1998 Jack Bartz; obit of Fr. John Peternel: Franciscan Friar, 82 years, entered Franciscan life 1935. Ordained 1943. Dear son of the late John and Mary: fond brother of Tony. Priestly duties 1944 to 1991 in Iowa, Brazil and San Antonio, Texas and Our Lady of the Angels Friary, Sherman, Illinois since 1991. Resting at Mayslake Village, 1801 35th Street, Oak Brook, Friday 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday 8:30 a.m. until prayer service 9 am. Mass of Christian Burial 10 a.m. Interment Queen of Heaven. 708-544-0100.
1 Jan 1999 Keith Eckrich: Happy New Year, Y'all. 1998 got too busy for me and I lost track of emailing, and it is a sure bet that if you don't email you won't be emailed. I resolve to be more communicative. [Keith sends some country western tune titles. If you want them, his email address is: keckrich of ix.netcom.com]
6 Jan 99 Bob Pawell: His annual letter tells of 22 inches of snow in 24 hours in Chicago on Jan. 2 and more every day thereafter. On the 6th, he was still shoveling mightily the accumulated 28 inches (annual average is 38). Highlights of his Oct. 98 trip to Europe: Strasbourg Cathedral, the glockenspiel in Munich's Marienplatz on a sunny day, serpentine streets in Venice, smiling Christs, especially at Santa Maria in Trastevere in Rome. Rubens and Rembrandts at Pinakotheke in Munich, Botticellis at Uffizi in Florence. Fra Angelicos in San Marco, the Sistine Chapel. The Portiuncula and climbing the steep Rieti and Umbrian Valleys. He preached a mission in Nashville but didn't contact any fringe friars. He's doing and will do a lot of preaching and other good works. This year's letter has more of his own good words than usual, rather than quotes of others that one's eyes glaze over. Only two book recommendations. His best annual letter yet - more of plain Bob. The Bob that touches people.
6 Jan 1999 John Miller: [For the scholars among us.] Early Church Fathers: http://www.homeworkcentral.com/toplinks/305.html Long a center of the study of the Christian faith and its history, Wheaton College has digitized the works of the writers of the first centuries of Christianity, placed them in the public domain, and offers users to "copy freely." This is an impressive example of the Internet's unique new ability to open scholarly archives to students everywhere. The first of three major sections contains writings to 325 AD, beginning with Clement of Rome, Mathetes, Polycarp, Ignatius, Barnabas, Justin Martyr, and Irenaeus. The final entry of the archive, addressed to the Pope of the City of Rome from the Patriarch of Constantinople, includes this greeting: "To the most beloved of God, fellow-minister, Gennadius and the most holy synod assembled in the royal city which is New Rome, sendeth greeting."
6 Jan 99 Jack Brennan/Marilyn Stahl: Back before Advent, I'd horned in on a email conversation between sister M. and bro Jack about some article called "God is more than two men and a bird." They finally found it in the May 1990 U.S. Catholic and Marilyn sent it to me. The article is an interview with biblical scholar Sister Sandra Schneiders. It cleared up a lot of sexist interpretations and leanings in theology and spirituality and for the first time I saw benefit in feminist biblical scholarship. I shall reread it. And I'll make a copy for John Miller who sent me the eye-opening article from Harpers last fall.
10 Jan 99 Marilyn Stahl: Hope you got the article I sent. Nothing too new in there that we women in religion don't talk about all the time. I do think it's impossible for men to understand how turned off women are (some women) by all the male terminology. Have to walk in those moccasins, I guess. Or hear with those feminine ears.
15 Jan 99: Luis Runde's monthly newsletter from Nicaragua is an amazing story of Hurricane Mitch's effect on Central America. A civilian contact in Honduras told me of communities entirely wiped out. We're proud of you, Luis. Keep it up. Unbelievable what you've been going through.
17 Jan 99 Vince Zimmerman: Thanks for your holiday greetings. Obviously, I don't read my mail very often. So you're into teaching,[Susan]. I don't know if I'd have the energy to do that. Barb goes daily to substitute, which I think would be acceptable. I didn't like having to make lesson plans every day. I like the work of having people come in and talk about their issues. Then I can just react. But that's getting old too. Hospitals are in such a turmoil about the insurance companies cutting treatment that I don't know if it's still a viable way of teaching people. You barely get to know the students. Also, as I read from others, the big 60 is coming up and a more unstructured lifestyle looks inviting.
We're building a house out in the country with woods around. It's been a bad winter for building, but it's creeping ahead. We used the profits from selling the house in Alabama. Thanks for the time and energy you put into the Digest. I do like keeping up.
21 Jan 99 Joe Smith: Did I miss an issue of DD? Meantime, enamored of my occasional criticisms, the Vatican has recently granted me powers of indulgence and of anti-indulgence. Translation: I can put people in or get 'em out of 100 days in purgatory at will or whimsy. So, watch out, fella.
[Joe sent a news clip headlined: "William Carroll is honored for service to psychology." The Illinois Psychological Association gave it "for service, research, teaching, and writing." They like his willingness to share legal advice with other psychologists. His law/psych degrees are from Northwestern U. School of Law, doctorate from U. of Strasbourg, his STL from Catholic U. of America.
Joe's note: This is the guy who was "never to be allowed to go into studies" because he asked too many questions at T-town - the original 'rebel.']
22-24 Jan Mike and Judy Mooney visit: The Mooney RV made it to Peckerwood twice now in two months. Charlie Fenton, Mike's SOA buddy, came out for dinner Friday night. Saturday was leisurely, J&M stayed around hot tubbing and sunning. Susan and I went to town for a Sherlockian meeting, and Judy cooked dinner Saturday. They left Saturday afternoon, heading for the Natchez Trail and Merriwether Lewis's grave Sunday afternoon.
27 Jan 99 George Cuellar: I hope you are okay. I called you July 6, 1998, on the way back from Toronto, Canada. Insurance took care of the broken window which took place when someone broke into our van in Toronto. Syracuse, NY, intrigued me at night. I want to return there when it's day time.
I made contact with Nick Baxter, or rather, I left a message and he returned my call but we haven't gotten together for lunch yet. I'll keep (sic)
The week of January 14 was pretty stressful.. Two of my aunts passed away, learned that one of my cousins has cirrhosis of the liver. During the same week, my 91-year-old Dad lost both legs above the knees through surgery. My brother, sister, and our 87-year-old aunt kept watch while he came and went from the surgery room. He's been bedridden for the last four years; so his circulation had been cut off and he developed gangrene. During the same weekend of Jan. 16, my 17-year-old son John David rode a bus to Dallas with 20 other ice hockey players for a tournament. His team, the Houston Elite team, won one game and lost three. Hopefully, the team will be ready in Easter to play again against the Russian team, which is the training for the Olympics.
Irma and I continue to work for Houston Independent School District. She's a counselor at Jane Long Middle School and I'm still social worker at Anderson Elementary School, a community of nine smaller schools with an enrollment of 1,500 students form Pre K-5th grade. Our 20-year-old Federico is a massage therapist.
Well, I'm glad you survived the tornado that hit in and around Jackson, Tenn. [George also called us when the tornados hit Jackson and Clarksville and did more than $100 million worth of damage.] Enclosed is a copy of my stand-up routine that I gave at our Talent Show at our Aquinas Parish Hall. I hope you have room for it in the Diaspora's next issue or eventually. Hopefully, we'll be reunited for the Year 2000. By then, our 2YK problems will be resolved. How's your gardening coming along? Love, George.
[Gardening is largely on hiatus. Your stand-up routine will probably have to be in the 'eventually' category, though on rereading some of the feverish ideological stuff, maybe I'll find some room. And, yes, Y2K problems should be history by June 2000 unless the Chinese, [and] Russians, et al., overflows affect us. I read today that they haven't done tiddlywinks about the problem and in this world of international banking, good lord, look out.
As for George's stand-up routine, you have to be a cowboy to appreciate it, and I'm not only a redneck now, but a lifelong cowboy. An example of the Cuellar comedian: "Then I told them about the cricket who told the grasshopper, 'Mr. Grasshopper, did you know they're serving a drink named after you over at the Lost Hombre Saloon? Did you know that, huh, huh? Did you know that, Mr. Grasshopper, huh? Bet you didn't know that, huh?' So the grasshopper said, 'Now, why would anybody want to name a drink, Billy Bob?' " GS]
5 Feb 1999 Candlemas Day: Tony Lutz: Dear Diaspora Digest, Pax et Bonum! A small check to help with expenses. [Thanks, Tony. It takes the pain out of retyping your gems. GS]
My brother, Fr. Robert Lutz, retired pastor living in Northbrook, Ill., recently had a heart attack, open heart surgery, three days of dialysis for his non-functioning kidneys, and the insertion into his chest of a defibrillator. I request your prayers for a speedy recovery. He is only 74.
Recently at Church I met Fr. Ray Ryland, a converted Anglican priest, who works with Catholics United For the Faith in Steubenville, Ohio. He told me his is working with nearly 300 Protestant Ministers, who are in various stages in their journey to Catholicism. He said: "All of them are coming into the Church for the right reasons, and there is not a dissident among them." God still turns stones into vibrant apologists.
My dear friend, Joe Smith, likes to point out our sinful clergy and the weaknesses of recently beatified or canonized individuals. I refer him to the sayings of our saints. "There, but for the grace of God, go I, a sinner." And the famous saying of St. Phillip Neri: "Lord, watch out for Phillip, for at any moment he can betray you."
I would also point out to Joe that the Sacrament of Holy Orders, according to its very definition had to be instituted by Jesus Christ. Sacred Tradition buttressed by sacred Scripture (read St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews) attest to this. It is helpful to read "The Catechism of the Catholic Church" for a refreshment of memory. The Church has a long and instructive memory. It is well to dip into it. This is our definitive belief, not withstanding the Johnny-came-lately biblical consultants Joe refers to. It is always best to stick with the true and tried rather than looking for those who would disparage the Faith.
I heard Dr. Ralph McInerney say on EWTN that many of our liberal theologians don't want to take the Profession of Faith and Oath of Fidelity to the Holy Father because then they would have to accept "Humanae Vitae" even though natural family planning undercuts any artificial means of birth control and makes their objections to HV look silly. Peace and love in the Lord.
7 Feb 1999 John Miller: Apparently I really got under Lutz's skin with my comments. That he has to use a reference that goes back to 1973 is amusing. After 25 years, some things aren't just "politically correct," they're also genetically researched. In any case, he may believe as he wishes. For some the earth is still flat and the center of the universe. Perhaps I'm being obtuse, but I missed entirely the comment on my not believing that the Church was guided by the Holy Spirit. My best guess is that he's talking about infallibility and divine guidance for the "Holy Mother," and that the Church couldn't possibly be human or make mistakes. I'm sure I'll have some comments later about this... Pax.
7 Feb 1999 John Miller: I was wrong about the year. It was '78-79, when it kept right on snowing through February. There were roads here that had only one lane, and the snow on both sides, that had been plowed, was over car height. This stuff is mostly all melted now. We've endured worse, and I'd rather have this than the -26 degree with 80 mph winds we had our first winter in this house. I thought we'd blow away, and we had no electricity for about 12 hours. The power of nature is always astounding.
Etcetera: The answer to GK's test is, as you know by now, surely, or not - is six. It's the little words that we don't notice that get us burned at the stake. Like homoousios after the Council of Nicaea and theotokos after Ephesus. Quick, which way do you lean? Would you die for "two or one natures" or "bearer of God" as descriptions of Jesus and Mary? (Vive le difference entre Vatican I et Vatican II.)
The Reunion of OFMs 2000 draws nigh. The good news is that we'll have two days in which to put the gloves on the tongues of Joe and Tony and Nick and John and Gael and whomever wants to join them in the lists. Whoever wags his tongue the longest, gets to sum up the event for DD32. So sharpen your wits, boys. DD will inherit the wrath. And if the old First Diamond is still there, we'll see if Rup can still hit a softball into the cornfield. GS
Open Letter to DD. I have been privileged - these last several months - to join our beloved Gael Stahl in editing the electronic version of the DD. I spend several hours each time doing this labor of love for the men and women who take the time to write. For many years, I ate at the table of this delicious literature without as much as sending a note to contribute. When my beloved classmate began to talk about terminating his efforts, I encouraged him to continue and offered to help. He accepted my help and covered my blunders in the process. Our 43-year-old bond is certainly cordial, definitely male, not always harmless and always inspiring for me.
When Smith and Lutz began their dialogue, I was at first amused and mildly interested. Now it makes me sad. I saw the DD as a way for us fringers to share our lives with what Zeke calls: "heart singing stories." I find the Smith - Lutz dialogues (that's what they are since not many other people seem to join in) make my heart ache. Not because of any heart singing I read, but because it seems that these two men do not reveal much of themselves. They keep us away from who they are. It may be my issue, but what I see are two guys who have a hard time talking about what really touches them. Lutz, in this issue, says, "I don't belong to a touchy feelie church or one for wimps." That's too bad. It reminds me of the days in the seminary when most of our exchanges were intellectual. I am not anti-intellectual (slow-intellectual, maybe) but I think that spiritual experience is barren without both intellectual and emotional context, i.e. without being human. I believe Lutz and Smith both hide themselves behind their own brand of dogma. They come not to share, but to teach us - the great unwashed - their version of truth. And can they ever back it up with citations!!!
Having said that, I really hope that they continue to write in the DD. But they ought to be required to send their words via email or disk. Or, better still, they can duke it out by writing to each other and letting us know from time to time who is winning. JB