Diaspora Digest # 41

______________________________________________

Editor: Gael Stahl

Webmeister: Jack Brennan

Submit articles and comments to: E-mail: ddeditors@diasporadigest.org

Diaspora Digest Home page: http://www.diasporadigest.org

Join Diaspora Digest Forums and Galleries where you may comment on articles, etc. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Diaspora_ofm/

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

Dear Diaspora,

 

Thanks to Jim Sexton’s suggestion, we are instituting a security system on the DD website to safeguard the demographic information of the Diaspora.  Both the email roster and the address book will be locked.  To open these pages, enter: zeke66.  We will purge all the text of the DD issues online of the @ symbol so that search engines and internet robots will not so easily identify email addresses.  We will replace @ with “of.”   So stfrancis@diasporadigest.org becomes stfrancis of diasporadigest.org.

 

Check our DD Blog and leave us a note there:  http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Diaspora_ofm/   We have some control over the advertising on the site and we try to keep it as clear as we can.  However, the advertisements pay for the site so we have to have some tolerance for them.  Also, we are trying to make a Catalogus and would love to include your picture.

 

We have added a few more Diaspora whose email addresses have not been working for at least three consecutive mailings.   We do not include here those mailboxes which are marked “full.”

 

John Behl | jbehl01 of earthlink.net

Charles Cantlon | cmc of ronan.com

Larry Druffel | ldruffel of charter.net

Pat Feehan | pj of plattevalley.net

Jim Fischer | drjr of earthlink.net

Ernie Fresques | musicman85008 of mountain.net

Steve Gengenbacher | papafive of aol.com

Jerry Hiller_M. Rochon | mrochon of condor.depaul.edu

Allan Hoffman | bernadine.hoffman of worldnet.att.net

John McMahon | jemm5 of cox.net

Michael Nolan | mikenol of consolidated.net

Harry Owens | howens of cascadehealthcare.org or howens of scmc.org

Carlos Rebalo | rebelojr of jfse.gov.br

Jose Rodriguez | jrodriguez of epitrustee.com

Greg Sadlek | gregory_sadlek of unomaha.edu

Charlie Strack | charliest of aol.com

John Waldren | BUKIIR1 of aol.com

Arnold Wieser | User276 of aol.com

Robert Wilson | b_f.wilson of t_online.de

 

We are always grateful for any updates on our address book too: http://www.diasporadigest.org/ffas.html  Page is locked, enter: zeke66

 

Pax et bonum.

 

Gael and Jack

 

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 

 

06 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar: Just finished trolling through the latest edition of the Digest.  As we approach the "golden ager" period, more surgeries and health problems crop up.  That is only supposed to happen to "old" people!!!

I did perform my Midwest concert tour as planned, bring sweetness and light to St. Louis, Kirkwood, Mo., Quincy, Il., and Sherman, Il., Sherman contains the "geezer stalag" for retired and ill friars, who live mixed in with civilians.

I started in St. Louis at St. Anthony's.  My classmate, Bill Cardy, has a cubiculum there and put me up for an evening.  I had a VIP cell, with my own shower and toilet--living large in the friary! Had a chance to chat with Max Behnen, who has residual damage from a stroke.  However, he is doing well and still a rabid Cardinal fan.

Then off to Kirkwood (Gerry Etzkorn's  home town) to visit Jim and Jean Gutchewsky.  Some of you might remember his older brother, Joe, from the Westmont days.  Met their grandson, Mike, who will be one year old on July 2.  Called another classmate, Charlie Struckhoff.  His older brother is David Struckhoff.  That should shake the memory tree.

Got to Quincy to celebrate Dan and Sharon Tanna's wedding anniversary.  Visited with folks at Melrose Methodist Chapel.  Etzkorn sent Paul Gaudutis and me out there for ecumenical work.  I worshipped with those good folks every Sunday for two years (1966-1967).  They have a new minister so I told him stories of our good times with the Methodists.  And the upturned eyebrows of some of the faculty at OLA-Quincy when we started.

Then we stopped at the college friary and visited with JJ Lakers, Phil Hoebing, John Leonard Ostdiek, and Jack Hardesty.  A great afternoon just chatting about everything and nothing.  Also stopped at the parish and rousted Shivers Shaughnessy.

Finally, got to Sherman to retrieve Zach Hayes for dinner at Ken and Maryann Dobucki's home. Ken is a classmate who was a member of one of the "outpost" communities in the early days of CTU.  We had a wonderful Spielabend und conveniat with Der Herr Doktor Hayes.  In case you guys did not know, Benny the Bull (Pope Benedict) was a professor who taught Zach as Zach pursued his degree at Bonn, Germany.  We always tell Zach that he is responsible for all our failings.  He retorts that we were incorrigible and invincibly ignorant.  We always chant "Jube, Domne, benedicere"  just to make Ken and Maryann's neighbors wonder!!

Zach remains healthy and is working steadily on Bonaventure's sermons, etc.

Thought you might enjoy a brief recap of the Spring visitation.  Now it is time to cut grass, etc. before the next storms pass through.

The Sox are in first place--a nice antidote for my Cubs rash.  Cubs-Sox series is coming up later this month.  The town will be rocking if both are in first.  Wahoo!! (That was for Jack and Zeke and all you other true Sox fans!)

 

06 Jun 2008 Jack Bartz: Wanted to give a belated mention that Coach Ray Konrath called, as is his custom, to wish birthday greetings to us. We share the same birthday date (Feb. 23) and he faithfully reminds himself of that by calling me. As usual, he is hale and hearty, ebullient as ever.
Thank you, Ray, for keeping the connections alive! [This act of gratitude will not reach Ray via the internet since he does not have a computer.  Ray's classmates are currently taking up a collection to get him a computer. JB]

06 Jun 2008 Gael Stahl: That's indeed a great visitation letter from Cowboy. As he says, we three and Jerry Klein when he's in contact, make a great blend of Sox fans. These guys may be the real thing if Konerko and Thome will pick up their averages.

When I get back from our June 10 to July 4 (or so) trip, I'm going to play with the blog to start getting blog daily digests or individual letters to it as they come in. With my sherlockian and James Joyce blogs (list, groups actually) I get lots of daily digests.

You guys keep the Sox hot while I'm on the road. I'm always pulling for the Sox and Cubs to win the pennants and face off in the World Series. So sweet to see Sox beat Cubs in the big tent. [As long as that is the only reason you want the Cubs to win, you may walk through the south side of Chicago unscathed.  However, Mazar still gets a rash whenever the Cubs win. JB]

07 Jun 2008 Jack Brennan to Brian Szorady: Welcome to the DD Blog.

Ordinarily Zeke greets whomever signs up, but since he is getting ready to visit Mike Mooney, Jim  Schmitt and Cullan Uhlinger in Indianapolis, I am the pinch-hitting greeter. [Turned out that Anton Braun and Jan, John Behl, Chris Reuter, and Vince Zimmerman and Barb – all in the area made it for the three day conveniat, too – lots of cigar smoking and sharing and memories – were there beside me and Susan. - Gael]

How are you doing?  Are you still in Tennessee?  It would be great to hear from you. You may leave a message on the Blog or you may reply to this email.

Zeke told me that he has had several inquiries about you.  It's been 40 plus years since I've seen you.  Wow!  Hope you are very well.

07 Jun 2008 Brian Szorady: Thanks for the welcome.  It has been a "few years" since I've been in touch with DD and most of the brethren.  I have talked with Bob Dougherty and Jim Zangs over the past few years, however.

 

My wife, Jeannie, and I are still in Memphis.  She is a Nurse Practitioner at the Med, the local charity hospital.  She spends most of her time in a trauma ER, the Intensive Care Step-Down and Police Hold.  Most of her patients we end up reading about in the local paper.  She is amazing to say the least.

 

We have a daughter, Meagan, age 16, who just finished her junior year of high school.  She too is pretty amazing; very bright like her Mom, fifth in her class of 250, and of course, gorgeous as well.  And unlike a lot of kids in her class who are so bright, she is a lot of fun as well and definitely keeps her Dad on his toes.

 

I have been working with high risk adolescents through the Memphis City Schools Mental Health Center for the last eight years.  I love my job, although at times it can be pretty challenging, to say the least.  Before that I was the Director of Outpatient services at a Mental Health Center for 12 years.

 

This summer Meagan and I have a few "college road trips" lined up.  In fact we should end up in Chicago and hope to visit with a few of the Diaspora folks there.  God, it might be a little frightening for Meagan to hear some of the old stories about her ole Dad, though.

 

Thanks again for the welcome, Jack.  It prompted me to finally get in touch.  Nice job.

 

Brian Szorady (Novitiate class of 1962 - Ordination class of 1970)

 

08 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar: Nice to see that Brian has surfaced.  And that he is doing well.  He has been a long time near Memphis.

While I was rooting around and cleaning, I discovered a snap shot of you taken at my simple profession.  You, of course, being a stellar theologian from across the tracks.  In any case, I am sending it to you via snail mail.  You may use it on your dart board.  Or show it to your kids, so they can get a giggle. [They couldn't believe that I was ever that young. JB]

Yes, State and Madison would become the red line/border crossing if a Subway series should happen.  Many of us think that the Parousia would also happen just to short circuit the party. Remember, when Quinn turned on the air raid sirens and we all thought the Russians were coming to bomb us and ruin the World Series?

Stay well. Pax.

08 Jun 2008 Tony Lutz: I have had the anointing of the sick a number of times. Let me remind the brethren that if they have an illness that could bring on death they should contact a priest to prepare for eternity. That consists of the following: Confession, Holy Viaticum, the Anointing of the Sick and the Apostolic Blessing which carries a plenary indulgence at the moment of death. Christ wants to be present with us to usher us into His everlasting presence. There is nothing more beautiful and comforting. Christ thought of everything. It is up to us to get with the program! Write the instructions into your Last Will and Testament! Pax.

08 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar: [I had asked him who Quinn was. JB]  Quinn was the fire commissioner and a crony of the old Mayor Daley.  He was a rabid South Side Irish Sox fan and could not resist setting off the air raid sirens the night the Sox clinched the pennant in Cleveland.

I was at Westmont and missed my chance to go to a game.  My dad went with a neighbor and he always reminded me of my being a holy roller and blowing the opportunity.  He had his tongue firmly in his cheek.

You and Zeke put the bad juju on the Sox by sneaking into the bindery to listen.  For shame!!!! Whatever Zach taught about superstitions, he certainly could not apply it to Sox fans.  We are always aware of bad karma wafting over 35th and Shields.  I applaud your daring to listen to the radio during the novitiate and taking the chance of the whole year being made invalid!

 

Ah, the days before color television. Pax.

08 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar to Gael Stahl: Bon Voyage to you and Susan upon your trek through the Adirondacks. Nice piece of geography there.

Delighted that you and Jack enjoyed my little travelogue of central Illinois and the Mississippi Valley. It was great fun telling war stories. Your days in the clericate were so different from my time. "Formation" hardly seems to fit.

Didn't realize that Klein was a Sox fan. Maybe other folks will have an epiphany and convert. Something about scales falling from the eyes comes to mind.

For all the trials and travails of the 60s and 70s, a reservoir of good will remains among the friars concerning the Diaspora. That certainly is my impression of the guys I have run into over time.

Pax.

08 Jun 2008 Gael Stahl to Dan Mazar: Your remarks about the reservoir of good will shall appendage your visitation report in DD41.

Sox won 6th straight today, completing the cycle of clean sweeps of our central rivals, KC, Cleveland, and Minnesota. So sweet and so vital. Sox might have swept Detroit in those first couple of weeks of the season also, as I remember.

What a different team they are since Ozzie Guillen's f...ing-laced rampage about a change gonna come by Tuesday, wasn't it? Must have had something to do with the hitting coach lightening up and letting them go out and swing and just enjoy themselves and forget the scientific rigmarole. -- Or it was one hell of a coincidence. [The rant of Guillen was blotted out down South, but the words they kept deleting seemed to start with 'f'. GS]

08 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar: I read with a jaundiced eye Tony Lutz's thoughts on "Extreme Unction".  I was anointed when in the hospital a few years ago with a ruptured appendix.  My physician examined me and sent me to the emergency room.  I drove myself there and they had me on the table pretty quick.

The chaplain came in afterwards and gave me the oils.  He also switched on the TV to Mother Angelica's Network.  I was hoping for the porn channel!  If Jesus were merciful, He would have killed the cable.

I told him not to send Communion as I had no appetite and was worried about hurling.  Not to worry, the deaconess showed up and I had to shoo her out of the room.

I am afraid that Tony Lutz's version of "Extreme Unction" is romanticized Baroque spirituality. At the very least, it doesn't fit for me. But if it works for Tony, that's cool.

As for me, I am an organ donor, wish to be cremated (I have my urn already) and will be shipped to my best friend for disposal.  He warned me not to show up in a baggie--at least come in a Folger's can!

That probably makes a bigger contrast than even Blane O'Neill would countenance.  I can still see the little red outhouses he would draw on some of my work for him.

Sox have one more game with the Twins tomorrow for a sweep.  Cubs v. Sox starts in a week or so.  Will be a fun time. Pax.

09 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar:  Glad to see that the Jebbie training did not desert your friend when he was cashing in. [I had related a story of how my ex Jesuit friend insisted his classmates visit with him when he was dying and not try to "convert" him.  JB]  I guess it is no wonder that we number ourselves among the "exes" of the institution.

The only program on Mother Angelica that I would have watched for a moment or two would be Phil Pavich carrying on.  However, he says the visions at Medujorge are bogus and that he was conned.  So, I think he is not welcome on the Eternal Word Network these days.

On the strange chance that we would have remained in the Order/Priesthood, there is no doubt we would have operated in a very different fashion.  The institutions might have become apoplectic, but we would have had some fun, I think.

On balance, I am glad I am out of it and far away from it all.  Just too much tension for my peace of mind.

As for mixing ashes and coffee grounds, I would probably need paper filters along just to do it all the right way.  After the pause that refreshes, I would be on my way to clouds of glory with a caffeine buzz.  Pax.

10 Jun 2008 Bob Hickman (From the DD Blog.):  Great job you all are doing. Glad to be back on line after being away for a long time.

I stay in touch with Chuck Gunti and Chuck Faso.

I had a short visit with John Behl when I was home visiting my 90-year-old Mother. We ran into each other after Mass at the church in Neoga, Illinois. He was down visiting his brother.

Anyway, thanks again for all of your hard work.

10 Jun 2008 Damien Isabell: [This was mis-sent to us and intended for Benet Fonck, but we have taken our editorial privilege to publish it.]  Benet - thanks for the day by day report.  If you see John Doctor, please thank him on my part for the service of these last years.  Everyone I have met tells me how well he worked.  Blessings on you all.  Brother Earl reminded me last week that this is the 50th year since we entered the Order (1958).  I could not believe it.  Continue the good work, Benet.

12 Jun 2008 Tom Shannon (From the DD Blog.): [Tom joined the DD Blog yesterday.] Indeed I have entered the 21st century. Though while teaching I avoided all technological interventions in the classroom. I found having them read a text and discuss it was more helpful.

Retirement has been a joy. I have fully embraced the Italian standard of "the sweet doing of nothing". Drives everyone crazy and that also is sweet.

13 Jun 2008 Jack Brennan to Dan Mazar: Your Kodachrome came today.  Was that 1966? Our class was ordained in June of 66.  I see Dennis Griffin to the left and Charlie Bloss way in the background.  Man, we were young.

You are right, it would make a good mug shot.  I thought making a current mug book would be great, but the diaspora must have lost either their humility or their narcissistic  needs.  I stole one of yours and Clyde's and Lyke can't complain about the one I have of him up there.  My son snapped the one of me.

I was talking to my brother Dan on Sunday. He is very rich and has retired to one of those high risers on Michigan Ave and lives on the 35th floor.  We were talking about the Sox/Cub thing and he said a lot of people just don't get it.  People will come up to him and tell him the Cubs won. He said that he has to bite his tongue and not say "I don't give a shit.  How are the Sox doing?" 

As Bob Elston used to say "Boost baseball, boost the White Sox."

Thanks for the photo. My family is having a lot of laughs over it, I am getting nostalgic. However, this goes away when I take my medication.  Pax.

14 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar to Brennan: That snapshot was either in 1965 when my class entered novitiate or 1966 when we took profession.  I do remember you and Zeke making the trip across the tracks to visit the novices.  However, I cannot recall who of the theologians told me not to take the novitiate too seriously--least of all, Paskert.  The novitiate year was so artificial that it was mind bending.  the main thrust seemed to be: if we don't know what to do with the novices, send them into choir to pray.  Lots like the daily schedule at Westmont on Sundays. Imagine, two Masses every Sunday!!!

I suspect you will not get lots of photos for a new mugbook.  More inertia than anything else, I suppose.  I would be more interested in bios.  Well, maybe pictures too just to play the "Who the hell is that?" game.

Your brother, Dan [a rabid Sox fan], has it just right.  My dad used to say: a good day –  Cubs lose, a better day – Sox win, the best day – Cubs lose and Sox win.  I am told both doctors and priests would ask after birth and before Baptism: Cubs or Sox?  Cub fans make me retch as does the ballyhoo about the friendly confines.  Wrigley Field is a pit that should be razed to the ground and the ruins salted –  as the Romans did to Carthage.  I haven't been there since 1968.  A Passionist student at CTU was a Reds fan and I went with him to a Cubs-Reds game.  Happy to say the Cubs lost.  Lots of people forget that for years the Cubs were lucky to draw 1000 people to a game.  Take away WGN and Harry Caray and the Cubs would not be close to the attraction they are now.  As you can tell, I am confirmed in my bigotry.

Glad your family is having a few laughs at the mug shot.  Funny how the past can rise up and bite us on the ass.  Always good to have a sense of humor, especially about religious life.  Make an 8x10 glossy for the dart board.

If my mom finds any more photos that have been stashed away, I will send them along.  Who knows what she might find? Pax.

14 Jun 2008 Jack Brennan to Mazar: Any number of people in our class could have told you not to take it too seriously.  I would have told you that if you didn't have a sense of humor, you would shrivel up.  I think only one guy in our class took it seriously and it wasn't sacerdos magnus Lyke.  We all knew Lenny from Cleveland and we were happy to see him leave Cleveland. However, we did a group eye roll when we thought of the poor novices.  Lenny had been in the Army, I think.  Enough said? 

We were convinced that our class wore Alban out.  We could make him laugh, although when he laughed, he sounded like a tire losing its air.   He was so outrageous that if you didn't laugh at some of his stuff, you would need CPR.

The photo must have been 66 because if that is Dennis Griffin, he dropped out from our class and would not have been there except for some momentous occasion like ordination.

My dad and I used to walk to Comisky Park, but we called it Sox Park.  We only lived about two miles away on 44th and Lowe.  We would take what we later called the DMZ which was a two block wide strip between our house and the Home of the White Sox.  This demilitarized zone was an area where blacks and whites had an unwritten rule not to fight.  The same rule held in Hyde Park – the U of C campus and the gateway to Da Lake and Da Museem of science and indistry.  I bet that campus area was integrated long before any place in the US.

I still have a photo album from ordination.  I'll look through it for signs of minor friars minor.

 

15 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar: I only knew Alban in passing and was disgusted by his snuff habit.  Lenny was all order.  He should have stayed in the service as a chaplain.  Plus, he was very legalistic in his approach to religious life.  Really sucked any of the joy and humor out of it.  We did not have a happy time.  I still resent his teaching that those in the class who left the novitiate should be treated as dead and were not to be contacted in any manner.  Absolutely no humanity.

Talking with you guys made it ok to cast a curious eye at our existence behind the wall and look forward to escaping at profession.

 

I can't recall how many in the class took it all seriously. Can't have been too many, I think.

My dad and I would take the el from 63rd and South Park ( MLKing Drive) to 35th and walk to the park.  Was always a great treat to watch Nellie Fox, Billy Pierce, et al. perform.  We even went to the Chicago Cardinal football games.  People don't even remember that the Cardinals were a good club and that Halas could not move fast enough to get them out of town and have the city to himself.  My dad was born in Wisconsin – loved the Packers and detested Halas.  However, I am a Bear fan and we used yo have lovely arguments during the football season.  He always swore that Nitscke was better than Butkus.

 

I remember neither the name or face of Dennis Griffin.  No surprise there.

The great upside of our time in the friars is the friendship of men who all came to the religious from an idealistic impulse and who have tried to maintain that idealism in one shape or another over time.  I think Providence blessed our cohort from the 60s and the communal sense rooted and bloomed much to our own amazement.

 

End of homily. Pax.


16 Jun 2008 Gael Stahl to Brennan: Have to report on the get together at Indianapolis. Cullan and Lannie, Vince and Barb Zimmerman, Anton and Jan Braun, Chris Reuter and John Behl, Jim Schmitt, and Susan and I showed up Tuesday night for lasagna and some dinner on Wednesday night of burgers and brats. Great time.

  

The biggest regret of 'recent' reunions, led by John Behl, was missing "Jack Brennan's reunion in Spokane awhile back."  I certainly joined in on that! [I’m thinking about another reunion at our cabin in summer of 2009. JB] 

16 Jun 2008 Jack Brennan to Stahl:  I suppose you heard that Michael Perry was elected Provincial last week.  I think Chris worked with him at Corpse.  Michael Jennrich may have worked with Bob Pawell in the Big Easy.  I wrote to both Chris and Bob and asked them to do a thumbnail for the DD on each of the new leaders.   It occurs to me that you also may know them?

Yes, I miss Johnny Behl, too.  And Vince. And Tony.  And Cullan. And Muskie. And Mooney.  (I hope The Blue Wave has forgiven me for whatever it is he thinks I've done.  The only slightly bad feeling I have was when he lectured me about smoking.  It seemed he was madder at me than my smoking warranted.   I do not challenge his perception since it would not be the first time I've been an asshole.  Ask my kids. Or check your memory.)  I miss you and Susan most of all. Should I try to put together another chapter of maps at our cabin?  Perhaps summer, 2009?

Right now we are focused on getting Rachel married on July 5.

Enjoy your vacation and do no harm and do good.

16 Jun 2008 Jim Martorana (From the DD Blog.): When my family moved to Wheaton, Il in 1957, our parish, St Michael's, had an assistant pastor named Father William Kirk. He was a diocesan priest of the Joliet Diocese. I later found out that he had attended St. Joe's in Westmont. He died about 10 years later in a rectory fire at St. Mark's parish in Wheaton. He was the founding pastor at St. Mark's  Can anyone tell me what years he attended St. Joe's? Did he go to the Novitiate? Vows? Thanks in advance for any help you can give to satisfy my curiosity.

 

17 Jun 2008 Paul Langan:  I indeed have returned resurrexit sicut dixit as you say.  It was like the Mack truck experience you mentioned as far as the chest goes.  Today in fact is the 4th week since my heart was taken OFF-LINE.   The mitral valve repair went well with no complications as far as I know.  I am told it will be 4 to 6 months for full recovery.  In the mean time I am still under Geri's supervision and have to behave.  Thanks for sharing the experience you had back in '92.  I had more than a little anxiety prior to the event.  The idea of being under the control of a robot-like heart device for an hour or so is not appealing.

 

17 Jun 2008 Jack Brennan: Good news, Paul.

 

Another significant thing for me was that my brain and all my physical antennae moved into my chest for a couple of months.  At first, every little twinge was the beginning of a rapid end.  Then I went through a learning phase where I realized that the twinges were "cardiac ghosts" and not cardiac events at all.  In talking with other healing hearts, I got the impression that others went through the same process of hyper-vigilance.   There is so much to fix in your own head at a time like this.  The greatest learning of all was that I could do more for myself than the doctors could.  Don't get me wrong, I don't leave home without them.

 

I've been thinking of having another chapter of maps at our cabin next summer.  So if I start talking about it, I will get motivating feedback from the brethren.

 

We are in the process of preparing for our oldest daughter's wedding on July 5.  That is going OK, but a lot of details...

 

Glad you are on the mend.  Stay well and do no harm.

 

20 Jun 2008 Paul Langan:  Jack, you are so right  on the Ghost symptoms!  I can rationally deal with all this but the emotional side is still in major recovery mode.  I am becoming involved with "the Mended Hearts" group as a support system.  Tomorrow morning is my first meeting.  Thanks for sharing!  Paul

 

21 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar:  

Boys: [That would be we inveterate Sox fans on Dan’s list. JB]

 

There is no joy in Mudville this afternoon.  The Mighty Sox scored 7 but the Mighty Cubs scored 11.  They hit Contreras all over the park and could not recover.

 

The Cub fans are dancing in the street, while the Sox fans are having an Irish wake.

One more game tomorrow night.  Hope the Sox can take that one.

 

My White Sox pennant is limp. Pax.

 

22 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar: I am wearing my Sox T shirt proudly.  Stuck with them during the 40 years in the desert; cannot abandon them now.

 

Cub fans are giving me the hives when I approach within 100 yards.  Just too sensitive, I guess.

I light a candle to Nellie Fox also – for strength to carry on.  Billy Pierce is still around but doesn't get the ink that Ernie Banks does.  More's the pity.

 

Oh, do you have any idea who might have Gleaners from the years 1959-63?  I am interested in the class photos that were published in the year-end issue.  I have asked the provincial archives to dig around.  They might have something in the stacks. I have no old issues in my possession.  I will ask my mom if she saved any of them, but I doubt it. Pax.

 

22 Jun 2008 Jack Brennan:  It might help if you wear a hair shirt.  I think I told you my Billy Pierce story when he pitched in his first All Star Game.

 

There are certain points of view which, once in them, are difficult to get out of.  You will survive even though the Cubs did an undeserved sweep over the Sox.  My brother used to get real pissed at them and yell at me: "They just laid down and lost!"  The next day he was cured and rooting for them with even more fervor.

 

A classmate of ours, Don Wildt – a cousin of Frank Wildt, whom you may have known –  sent me a copy of the graduation issue of the Tower: May 1957.   That was the year we graduated from High School.  There is a picture of our class and some others that are too fuzzy to recognize. Except one of the pics is of our class gathered around the piano with Tots and I can recognize most of the guys.  If you want to see those, let me know and I can copy them and send them to you.   I'd suggest  you write a note on the Blog and see if you get any bites that way.  I could also put something in the next DD?

 

23 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar: Tony Lutz seems to be on a convert the heathen binge with a return to 1950s spirituality.  Not my taste at all.  However, if it will shorten my time in Purgatory, I may offer it all up.

 

I understand your brother's emotions vis-a-vis the Sox completely.  They can make a guy absolutely batty but we come back for more.  Those of us who go back to the old days know all about delayed gratification and revenge upon our enemies!  It is great fun to tease but I don't get all wound up like I did when in my grammar and high school years.

 

I sure do remember Frank Wildt.  He was in the same class as Vogel, Spoonhour, Awerkamp, et. al.  Smart as hell and a good jock and very laid back.  A great guy who was a revolutionary.  He and his wife live in Connecticut.

 

If you wish, you can put an SOS in the next Digest or on the blog.  Never know what might shake loose.

 

The seniors at Westmont used to put a last will and testament in the Tower to bequeath something to a lower classman.  Ah, the glory days!!!

 

Pax.

 

23 Jun 2008 Jack Brennan: And our class was no different.  This edition of the Tower has our bequeaths in it.  I am puzzled about the difference between the Gleaner and the Tower.

 

You are allowed to put your own request on the Blog.  Your endorsement of the Blog would raise the bar.

 

Tony is on the political right; they cannot live with uncertainty so they make all the world black and white.  Now that is an insult to the wonderful colors of the universe.

 

28 Jun 2008 Jerry Etzkorn:   If I can attach it properly, might you suggest where I might be able to publish 'Bushwhacked' as an Op Ed in some or several newspapers? I have absolutely no clout with the media.

 

23 Jun 2008 Jack Brennan: My last 40 years have been spent in the world of psychology where we dabble in the dubious! My only claim to publishing is the Diaspora Digest where I get my marching orders from His Zekeness of Old Hickory, TN. However, I am an avid fan of politics and happen to be aware of an online publication called, OpEdNews or OEN.

 

They are always looking for writers who address progressive issues. One need not agree with the progressive "agenda" but they want folks to take on progressive issues. Your article – it seems to me – is precisely what they are looking for. Here is the link to their writer guidelines: http://www.opednews.com/maxwrite/writersguidelines.php   I hope you will join and I bet they will be happy to run your article.

I read your article and it rings profoundly true to me.  We will certainly publish it in the next DD. [Here it is: http://www.diasporadigest.org/articles/bushwhacked.html]  Our contributions (the written kind) are light this month, so we will most likely publish around the first of August.

Keep doing what you are dong and do no harm.

 

24 Jun 2008 Dan Mazar: did read the Hedges' article about the faux journalism that is out and about the country.  http://www.commondreams.org/archive/2008/06/23/9822/

 

Hedges writes well.  His outrage is truly Franciscan in its origins, even though he comes from a high church Protestant background.  Shame that he will seldom appear on the Sunday chat shows.  He would provide some fireworks.

 

Once I get on the blog, I will make some noise about ancient Gleaners and Towers.  I am still hoping that the provincial archivist can hit the jackpot.

 

Sox v. Dodgers at LA for 3 games.  Then the Cubs for the weekend.  A chance for redemption.

 

Pax.

 

30 Jun 2008 Jim Sexton:  Please forward to Jim Hoffman. [Fiat JB]

Jim Hoffman,
Sincerely, I don't think it is a very good idea to get involved in political pressure groups. You risk making your Franciscan Order into just another clan or bag of riff-raff, tree-hugging, half-witted preachers out to save the world from itself. Don't we already have enough so called do good-ers from the bible belt, cable TV and pulpits blowing off their big mouths on everything under the sun in the name of Yahweh?  Most of them haven't even taken time out to read (and fear) a proper translation of the 7th commandment.

True, it's great to do some good social work, Jim Hoffman. But you're a Franciscan first of all. Humility in whatever you do is far more important than any glamorous deeds. Furthermore, asking, telling or pressuring our government into doing social ("good") action to help people out is probably the worst thing one can for people who are in need of help. It is far wiser is to teach people how to help themselves. Isn't evolution all about survival? Wasn't there mention of the "fittest"?  I don't recall anyone mentioning the "weakest". So make the weak strong by teaching them how to become strong.

We already tried helping out poor people in the 60s with President Johnson's "War on Poverty." It didn't work. All it has done is infest Washington DC with outrageous black caucuses and filled the pews of many respectable churches with helpless sheep that have to listen every Sunday to raving mad black theologians. I sure as hell don't know how some of these clowns twisted 2000 years of history and tradition into such utter nonsense, but I sure hope nobody does the same thing over again in the 21st century, especially to America's young and to the growing Mexican population.

As for the rest of us, our generation is living off leftovers and nostalgia from the 60s and 70s and we are almost all too fat and stupid today. So the faster we're all dead and gone, the better off the world will become.

Until then.

 

NB. You should go visit the Middle East a little. There all the preachers, pastors, mullahs and what-nots run their governments. That keeps all the little lady sheep inside the stables (homes). So they produce a lot of offspring –  babies and kids without much of a future and whose concept of the "gift" of life is rather meager compared to their sacred mullah's concepts of the "gift" of death. Good heavens!  How civilizations with such history, science, math, religion and culture have become so demented is way beyond me.

 

         [If I may interject a note in a conversation that fascinates me but hasn’t included me, I was reading yesterday, an article in the current New Yorker (Aug. 11 & 18) that you’ll find at: http://www.newyorker.com/arts/critics/atlarge/2008/08/11/080811crat_atlarge_lemann. It’s called A Critic at Large  (book reviewer) writing on Thomas Frank’s “The Wrecking Crew.” This letter of Jim Sexton and his letter of Aug. 5 below, describe a wonderful self-delineation of what he believes – we should all be so rash - I mean, brave and honest and true. And, I think he has a big point to make. This article doesn’t exactly touch on his, but it reminds me of him. It brings Frank – and me -- up short.

It’s  the most enlightening piece I've read about politics since Saul Alinsky and the Federalist Papers. Tom Frank, you remember, wrote "What's the Matter With Kansas?" and why are red states like Kansas voting against their own best interests?). Lemann speaks through the 100-year-old classic from the days of the Lafollette Progressives, Arthur Fisher Bentley’s "The Process of Government: A Study of Social Pressures." It's high water stuff that will stick with me. It’s a good reminder that politics is a never-ending, small-bore struggle for advantage among constantly shifting coalitions of interest groups.  It’s pluralism. Abstractions like “the people” and “the popular will” and “the public interest” are useless and empty concepts. Party bosses understood that. Community organizers understand that. All of us want to do good, but self interest groups actually DO something, so they prevail. Talk and writing do nothing. Media markets and nerds, take note. You’re wasting your time. Better to actually DO something. Talk and writing don’t’ count. – I’d loved to hear other reactions to this. – Gael]

 

03 July 2008 Chuck Faso:  I have been here in Colorado Springs CO for two weeks – attending a Franciscan-Islam Forum for three days and then preaching a retreat to the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration.  During this time my computer with its 71 infections (spyware and viruses) spent a week with the Geeks at the local Best Buy.  After I picked up the computer, still no emails were able to be downloaded at the Retreat Center. Here at the airport terminal, with the free wireless connection I downloaded today's emails.  What happened to all the emails from the past two weeks,  I do not know.  But I am back in business. 

 

My plane for Chicago departs in 20 minutes.  Happy Fourth of July!

 

05 Jul 2008 Chuck Faso: Good News!  I am joining Fr. Bill Burton OFM for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land!  Y’all Come!

Dates: November 30 to December 10, 2008

Contact: AMI Travel – Lebbie Chang, AMI Travel, (773)777-4900, or E-mail: tours of amitravel.com,  or

E-mail me (cfaso of earthlink.net) and I will mail you a brochure with a day by day schedule, cost: $2595.00, etc.

This will be my 27th pilgrimage to Israel/Palestine.  We will visit:  - Galilee (north): Nazareth, Cana, Sea of Galilee, Mount of Beatitudes, Mt. Tabor, Mt Carmel, Caesarea Philippi, Haifa, Megiddo, Capernaum, Tiberias - Judea & Palestine (south): Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Masada, Jericho, Upper Room, Via Dolorosa for the Stations of the Cross, Mt. Zion, David’s Tomb, and Dormition Abbey

Married couples will be able to renew their marriage vows at Cana of Galilee.  All will renew our Baptismal Vows in the Jordan River. We will walk through the streets of Jerusalem praying, singing, and carrying a cross as we remember the Stations of the Cross.  And we will be able swim/float in the Dead Sea after our visit to Qumran and Masada.  We will pray and sing in the places where Jesus walked and preached, healed and raised the dead to life!

Fr. Bill Burton, OFM, with whom I live in Chicago and also whom I taught in High School, holds a Doctorate in Scripture from the Gregorian University in Rome.  Fr. Bill has studied in Israel and now travels the country speaking and preaching on the Bible – parish missions, retreats, Priests’ Days, Retreats, Convocations.   Fr. Bill and I with a Guide from the Holy Land, will lead you through these places made Holy by the presence of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, Abraham and Sarah, and thousands of other pilgrims through the centuries.

Mass, prayer, much fun, optional talks in the evening by Fr. Bill, delicious food, will be our daily experience.  This pilgrimage/trip will have immediate and lasting impact on your lives.  The Scriptures will come alive and will never be the same again.

Tell you family and friends, your pastor and neighbors! 

Please phone me (cell: 773-844-1267 or land phone: 773-276-3386) for any questions or clarifications.

Shalom!  Salaam!  Peace!

Fr. Bill’s website:      www.biblicist.net

Fr. Chuck’s website: www.frchuckofm.org

[Dan Dolesh and I have been chatting about a Diaspora pilgrimage.  I was thinking of Italy: especially Rome and Assisi. Perhaps Chuck could be our guide if he promises to behave himself. JB] 

12 Jul 2008 Paul Stubenbort:  The ordination class of 1958 had a class reunion at Ditmer, Mo. June 25-28. Present were Dismas Bonner, J.J. Lakers, Ricardo Duffy (Lullus), Larry Brummer (Ephrem) Maury Hawickhorst, and yours truly, Paul Stubenbort (Josaphat). Missing were Mike Clarahan (Campion) and Tom Carolan (Cyriac) both of whom were ailing.

Three days of reminiscing and joking were a balm for the soul. Old pictures and copies of the Gleaner and Seraph reminded us of that whole other world (almost unbelievable) that was the 40s, 50s and 60s. I don't think my daughters even believe me when I tell them some of the things. And I won't even try with my grandkids.

Diz is in fine fettle and did the arrangements for the get together. I felt that his interest in spiritual counseling has tempered his canon law penchant in a positive way. He recently even came out excitedly endorsing the Province's deeper involvement in peace and justice.

J.J. remains very much involved in the eternal verities and in some temporal ones as well. Though retired from teaching he talks animatedly about his weekend parish work to offset his torrid letters to Rome in defense of Scotus.

Duffy has just about finished doctoring and wants to return to Brazil. His Lake Woebegone stories are as pungent as ever. He tried to talk me into donning a habit and joining in the jubilee celebration at T Town, but I sagely demurred. And I think Diz quietly concurred.

Ephrem is freed up from pastoring in Texas but is returning there to plan an agenda. His gracious input in our daily concelebrations was inspiring.

Maury is headed back to Brazil but in order to fortify himself for the strenuous journey he politely helped me to take care of a Jack Daniels I had brought. He and the others proceeded on to T Town for the liturgical celebrations there. Since Maury is originally from Teutopolis, this return must have taken the form of a triumphal procession.

I very much enjoyed the three days in Ditmer. I've kept up with these guys off and on over the years, and like all in the Diaspora, I look with pride and fondness on the years growing up with some of the best men to have come into my life. But then, that is an experience all of us share. [Amen to that, Paul.  You will love our new and improved DD Blog: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Diaspora_ofm/   JB]

14 Jul 2008 Carroll Mizicko:  Wow! What wonderful celebrations!  I am still in awe and filled with such depths of gratitude for what God allowed to happen with my 40th Anniversary of Ordination.  It was so encouraging and uplifting as many people joined me in giving Praise to God for His countless mercies and blessings. 

 

I am deeply grateful to the people of St. Augustine in East St. Louis who were so generous in the outpouring of their love and support in arranging the celebration here.  As they old saying goes “You should have been here!”  It was truly a wonderful celebration.  I am  grateful to Fr. Ferd’s brother, Richard Cheri, and his group who happened to be in town for  Diocesan Renewal Days on Friday and Saturday and stayed over to join with our gifted Choir, musicians and drummers in lifting our praise to God in marvelous song.  Many people from outside of the Parish commented on how much they enjoyed the Liturgy.  A cousin from Joliet even said that if it was not such a long commute he would join the Parish.  The  Mass began with a ritual from  the African tradition  involving special blessings and anointings from the elders. Both black and white elders from the four parishes that were consolidated participated.  Our elders are the ones who laid the foundation for what we are today and who continue to sustain us through their witness and prayers.  Many people from other places where I have been privileged to minister were also present:  St. Elizabeth Hospital, St. Augustine in

 

Memphis, St. Vincent in Nashville, TN,  the Secular Franciscans from Granite City, several Priests from the Diocese and, of course,  my own Franciscan brothers. The Mass was followed by a  reception   at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows.    I was indeed humbled as I have  been Pastor for only two years and  had some very difficult issues to deal with as we merged four parishes, and yet the outpouring of love and support was so generous.  All I can say is, to reiterate the theme of my celebration: “To God be the Glory!”

 

On June 22nd I and my brother from Brazil, Fr. Bob, traveled to St. Peter and Paul Church in Leonore, IL.  This is my home parish where I was raised and attended grade school in a two and some times three room school. Joining me for this celebration were, in addition to Fr. Bob, my brother Melory and members of his family, cousins from Joliet and Chicago, three grade school classmates and their wives, cousins from Indiana including Fr. Don Gross, and other friends of the family.  It was a wonderful celebration and being at the place where the seeds of my vocation to the priesthood were planted was special.  We all enjoyed a meal following the Mass.  We even had the opportunity of sitting in our old school desks from the 1940’s and 50’s.  Needless to say we did not fit quite as easily as at an earlier time.  Lots of reminiscing!

 

What has been happening at St. Augustine?  In June we recognized all of our graduates and retirees.  On Fathers’ Day, in addition to recognizing “Dear Old Dad” the ladies prepared breakfast for everyone.  This was a return favor for the men who had prepared breakfast for Mothers Day. 

 

In July, we recognized all veterans, active, retired and deceased and offered them a special blessing.  A bus load of parishioners, 40 in number,   attended the Archbishop Lyke Liturgical Conference in Lafayette, LA July 10-13. 

 

It was a great conference.  One of our members, Arthur Hampton, will be ordained to the Permanent Diaconate on July 26. Finally, we will hold our Vacation Bible School from July 28-31.  We hold the event in the evening from 5:30-8:30.  Our theme this year is “God’s Big Back Yard” so most of the activities will take place outside.

 

We are still in the process of renovating the former convent into an “interim” parish center.  We say “interim” because we have bigger plans for the future which include a new, larger Parish Center with Church Offices included. 

 

I continue my work with the Metro East Interfaith Partnership.  Our next big project is the annual Festival of Faiths and Cultures on September 6 at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows. 

 

Our Franciscan Province held its Chapter in June.  Fortunately none of us were elected to any office.  However, Fr. Ferd in his new position as head of the Office of Friar Formation will have his hands full as he adapts to the new leadership under Fr. Michael Perry as Provincial Minister.  He is also working with the Parish in developing an Ecumenical Youth Program that will include a Gospel Choir to reach out to the many “un-churched” youth in this community.  ANY POTENTIAL YOUTH MINISTERS OUT THERE?

 

Fr. Chris continues his work with prison ministry at the local, state and national level.    He has been key in working with the Bishops of Illinois in  the establishment of  a “Prison ministry network” between the Dioceses and in a national effort to address the concerns of the Church in ministering to immigrants who are detained in our prison system for lack of proper credentials.

 

Sister Thea Bowman School has been closed for the summer except for a couple of special summer programs in June.  The next school year begins in mid-August.  Sr. Thea continues to be a real asset to the community and gives a powerful witness to the presence and commitment of the Catholic Church to serve the poor and the disadvantaged.

 

To keep up with what is happening at St. Augustine, check our Web Page at: www.staugustineeaststlouis.com.

 

God is good!  I am grateful to all who joined me in spirit if not physically in giving thanks to God for allowing me to see 40 years in his service as a Priest.

 

Sincerely in our Lord and St. Francis.

 

22 Jul 2008 Dan Dolesh:  I do enjoy reading the DD.  Hope you all are doing well.   By the way, any info on Quincy College and particularly Dan Tanna?    Hope he didn't have to build an ark.  Haven't heard from him for awhile.  Also, what can we do to get Charlie Faso to do a Holy Land Tour for Diaspora and OFMs who might want to go.  I pushed for this when I was in Chicago for Mike Kellett's wake and funeral.  Everyone was enthusiastic about it, but nothing came of it.  Maybe if we do a little BOLD TYPE about it in DD???  Arthritis is creeping up on all of us, carpe diem before the sun sets.

 

22 Jul 2008 Jack Brennan: I haven't heard from Dan Tanna in a while either.  I just called him and left him a message.  I thought it was just part of the rhythm of life, but now that I think of it, he stopped communicating rather abruptly.  Oops, he just called me back and says that he has been entertaining guests from out of town and nursing his wife back to health.  He told me to tell you to look for him on the blog this very day and "est mea culpa."  Man, you guys are good at that Latin!

I've had a tiny desire to go to the Holy Land but now it seems a very dangerous place.   How about a tour to Italy to see Rome and Assisi?  I could get into that.

 

23 Jul 2008 Dan Dolesh: I would love to do a trip to Rome and Assisi.  I've been to Rome before but never to Assisi.  Let's keep talking about it.  Maybe we can find some other guys who want to go.  By the way, where do you live now?   [Spokane, Washington; we are 300 miles and 20 years from Seattle. JB ]

 

24 Jul 2008 Paul Langan (From the DD Blog):  Have not heard from Dan Tanna per email lately.  Was wondering what he was up to. [See above.]

 

25 Jul 2008 Paul Langan (From the DD Blog):  Thanks for the update, Jack.  I am progressing well.  The trip to Italy is a great idea. Even though I  have not been to either one, Italy would be my first choice.

 

02 Aug 2008 Jim Sexton (To Benet Fonck): Could you please take me off your mailing list ?

I don't want to seem ungrateful for all that you are doing, especially keeping everybody well informed of the latest news or for all the help you gave to Gael and his DD.

But Benet, it is 2008 and most of the people I knew and cherished during my brief "sojourn" with the OFMs are either "all dead and gone" - as the real Irish of Ireland say - or remain in contact via www (WildWonderfulWeb).

You'll have to forgive me, Benet. I'm kind of a bad ass from Chicago, like "Leroy Jones" (ref. a song by Frank Sinatra) and after having spent 30 years overseas when I came back to the US, turned on my TV and saw a floppy of half-witted "cabled" preachers invading air waves with outright, unabashed dementia.  I thought to myself we should have another Vatican II and everybody sit down and read a good translation the 7th commandment.

Until then, Sincerely.
 
NB. I'll send a copy of this to Gael. He knows me well and can explain to you that I'm really a "bad ass" and in need of some serious forgiveness.

02 Aug 2008 Jack Brennan (To Sexton):  The mailings you get from Benet are through the DD editors, Gael and me.  Benet sends us publications and we forward them to folks on our list who want to have them.  It is a simple matter for us to remove your name from those lists.  So I have removed your name from all the lists except the Diaspora Digest list.  Is that correct?
 
I am a bigger bad ass than you and I have a wife, 4 kids, 11 siblings and many friends who will testify to that.  Furthermore, I am also from Chicago - the south side.  So I know bad ass!

The Christian right is neither.  They are concerned about homosexuality about which Jesus said zilch.  However, he spoke perhaps 30 or more times about how being rich is most often a serious problem.  Yet those TV preachers openly preach that if you are prospering in this life, you must be doing the will of God.  Huh?

Peace.

02 Aug 2008 Jim Sexton:  Well, Jack Brennan. Long time no see. I think I remember you from T-Town. You were a little fellow with a lot of brains. Listened to Zachary Hayes, respectfully, actually and meaningfully conversed with him. Me, I never understood a word old Zack said or taught.

And then too, Jack Brennan. Gael really prizes you and your friendship. Which means you can't be all "that" bad ass-ed.

I used to live with Gael and Michael Mooney a few blocks down from where spoofer Obama
lives or went to church. So I'm kind of right-winged when it comes to politics or presidents. But as for religion, I'm far left, since I'd lived with mullahs for many years. Added onto that plus 20 years in forestry with all these western wild fires burning on our news screens that even The Terminator can't terminate due to the Sierra Club's inheritance the California (Hippie) Dreaming generation's cloned offspring makes me go back to the right again.

So, I'm kind of mixed up, a real "bad ass", Jack. Michael (Notre Dame) Mooney even thinks so, which is about as "bad" as you can get. 

Ah, that makes me think of something. The other day there was something on the science channel called "The Atom". Maybe we ought to lock the whole Christian right (along with the cabled-preachers, mullahs, popes (dead or alive ever since Vatican II), gurus and whatnot up in a sealed room with a big screen and continuously show them "The Atom" and what their universe is all about, its matter and space until they show some signs of understanding and listening to something other than their own voices. At least we'd get them off our streets and out of TVs and e-mails for a while.

So keep on the DD's list and off the others, and thanks.

02 Aug 2008 Gael Stahl: Thanks to you both for including me in this correspondence. Two of my best friends, both Chicagoans, going at being the bigger bad ass than the junkyard dog!!

You both win, not?

04 Aug 2008 Tony Lutz:  I learned about Girard Etzkorn's book, "Reflections of a Christian Pilgrim," through the Diaspora Digest and bought and read it. He is a trained philosopher and writes clearly and with some depth. However, when it comes to Catholic Church teachings he is a dissident. 

I have "been there and done that" but after a conversion experience over 30 yrs ago I reread some Church documents, like "Humanae Vitae," and found them invigorating and true. This is the work of the Holy Spirit and with humility we can all tap into this "New Creation." Christ has said: "I make all things new." Christ still tells us: "Come to me all you who labor and are heavily burdened and I will give you rest."

I had difficulty identifying Girard from his picture but remember his square jaw. Faces surely do change with age! He chose a great painting for the book cover. It shows a Friar journeying to a high mountain but he has Christ ahead of him to show the way.

 

05 Aug 2008 Jim Sexton: I think I should apologize. I was wrong about "Leroy Jones," it's "Leroy Brown."

It is true, I detest elders gloating over the un-healthy misfortunes of their peers, especially since I
getting up there in age myself and want to avoid such things. (I’m Thinking of Martin Amis who wrote a funny book about such unhealthy gloating, but you’d have to ask Gael for the exact title).

Anyway, one’s sufferings can be truly lightened by real concern and thoughtfulness from good friends. But this seems to me to be a rather private matter between him or her who suffers and his or her friends. Posting news briefs and turning the internet into a bulletin board of last minute health-scopes seems to me an abuse of privacy.

True, someone did say 2000 years ago to go visit the sick and those in jail, etc…. But I haven’t figured out what he really meant yet. I thought I once knew a long time ago when I was filling up Cook County’s hospital with poor, sick people from Chicago’s South Side. But in all honesty all I was doing was washing my hands of them and leaving them in the hospital’s over-crowded corridors to suffer a little more and/or die.

That’s probably part of why I don’t like promoting some OFM action group to march on Washington DC and get a bowl full of social justice for the poor and meek of heart and spirit.

Religion isn’t about social justice and politics. It is about faith, hope and charity. Once religion gets too mixed up in societies and politics nations usually end up in the long run with either a tyranny of goodness or evilness. Evil tyrannies probably have some positive long term benefits for the evolution of our own (human) species. While eventual consequences of a good tyranny are dubious in my opinion.
 
Whatever, try to forgive me a little, Jack.  I’m sorry for being so vulgar.   [Fiat. JB]

NB. Dementia must already be taking hold of me and my "bad ass"…

 

06 Aug 2008 Dan Tanna (From the DD Blog):  I'm back!!! Don't know why it has taken me this
long to get back on the Blog. We have been showing out-of-towners around the Gem City for the past couple of weeks it seems. My brother was in town over the 4th. Other friends who had only heard about Quincy during the flood wanted to see first hand.

Do you remember John Damm? John was at Mayslake for one year I believe. Jack, wasn't he in your class having arrived at Mayslake with Jim Wheeler, Jack Christiansen and Mike Mooney? [Sounds right.  Reuter is the class historian and he will have to verify that. JB]

Anyway, his son-in-law is in the Gem City Toastmasters club that I joined. Small world. We talked via the phone recently and hope to schedule a face-to-face soon. I still remember his famous description of Fr. Alban's eyes? Does anybody else remember? John has been a teacher in the Quincy area. Many of the toastmaster crowd had him in class. I'll give you an update after our
get together.

Paul, glad the healing is progressing. Sharon's knee replacement has been successful but she says she'll never do it again. The good docs predicted a four to six months before full recovery. August 15 will be the six month check up. They were right on target. We hope to be doing the fox trot soon. More later - promise!!!

 

06 Aug 2008 Tony Lutz:  Jack Brennan expressed the idea that he is an agnostic. There is a cure for that. Walk down the avenue and look at the trees, flowers, bushes, and little children and know they all had a Creator and did not come about by pure chance. Then in humility ask Jesus to come into your life and give you enlightenment. A dear friend of mine was a professor of physics and an atheist. Through science he came to believe in a God and then fell to his knees and asked to believe in Jesus. Faith in Jesus came to him immediately. All conversions are the work of the Hl. Spirit. God wants all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the Truth. Can anyone but Christ say, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life?"

 

06 Aug 2008 Tom Shannon:  If you check America magazine this week you will find that I am officially disapproved of by Cardinal Rigali of Phillly and Bishop Lori the chair of the doctrine committe of the NCCB. They do not like my position on feeding tubes.     [To read Tom’s article, you must subscribe to America.  For the online edition it is currently $12/year.  The response article is free.  Go figure!

Tom’s article:  http://www.americamagazine.org/content/article.cfm?article_id=10617       

Rigali – Lori response: http://www.americamagazine.org/content/article.cfm?article_id=10952 ]

 

07 Aug 2008 Phil Pavich:  Dear Gael and Jack, Peace

 

I just saw Larry [ex-Basil] Johnson with his wife at the golden jubilee celebration of Fr. Mike Clarahan at St. Alexander's in Villa Park Sunday Aug 3. They live in MI upper peninsula tel 906-644-2145. His wife does the email:  mw of bbbmi.com

 

I forgot to mention the DD to him, so am not sure if he wants it, but thought you might like to email an invitation to receive it.  [Fiat JB]

 

Blessings to you all.

 

07 Aug 2008 Jack Bartz:   Jack sends us another article on the fate of Mayslake: Lawsuit under way over Oak Brook's denial of assisted-living facility - Village accused of discrimination.

By Joseph Sjostrom | Chicago Tribune reporter - 12:48 AM CDT, August 5, 2008:

http://www.diasporadigest.org/articles/mayslake9.html

 

07 Aug 2008 Fr. Paul Meyers:  I am most happy that my photos of St. Joes, are now part Diaspora Digest, for anyone who wants them.

 

Recently contacted the Franciscan Monastery in Washington D.C. (Current location of the relic of St. Innocent) and they sent me a few photos of him in his glass-coffin.  (Same coffin which he was in, when he rested under the side altar of St. Joes.)

 

They virtually had no info as to where the relic had previously been located, nor when it came to the U.S. from the catacombs.

 

I am hopeful that someone knows where the relic came from, and in which churches it had previously been in the USA, or who had it moved to the USA.

 

Surely, some documentation must exist as to the transfer of St. Innocent from Westmont to Washington, DC, and likewise there must have been some official who had it moved to Westmont?

 

Please let me know:   (sousascousi of bellsouth.net)

 

[Editors’ notes: Wasn't there just a bone or something and the rest was a doll?  JB.  - You know, I think I always thought it was a skeleton, but now that you say it, it rings a bell that it was something like the millions of splinters of the true cross - made large. GS.]

 

09 Aug 2008 Carroll Mizicko (From the DD Blog):  Was going through the pile of papers in my office to check to see what needed to be kept and what could be pitched. I ran across the "Blog" information and decided to check it out. It should be a good way of keeping in touch and sharing viewpoints. The pictures are also an interesting addition. I will have to send one and perhaps I can even get one from my brother Melory and send one of old "Slush". Peace to
all from beautiful East St. Louis.  [One of your other friar brother, Bob, would be good too. JB]

 

12 Aug 2008 Scott Kuhle (From his log):  The last week of June, I spent on a bike trek along 300 miles of the Continental Divide in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming.  I was home one day from that trip and left for a month long boating sojourn in the Canadian Gulf Islands.  I actually put all aspect of work out of mind when I walked out of the office on June 29th when I left for the bike trek. 

 

We began our bike trip at Bannock State Park in Montana on Sunday and finished nearly 300 miles later at Flagg Ranch, Wyoming, about 2 miles outside of Yellowstone Park.

 

Saturday, June 21 - Left Pullman at 0800 and arrived in Bannock about 65 miles south of Butte off I-15 about 8 hours later

 

Sunday, June 22 - Day 1: Left Bannock State Park, and biked 36 miles; we camped in a beautiful meadow, along a creek. The weather was ideal for biking.

 

Monday, June 23 - Day 2: Today we biked 37 miles and camped at Deadwood Gulch on Big Sheep Creek about 5 miles west of Dell, Montana.

 

Tuesday, June 24 - Day 3: Instead of making breakfast at camp, we biked into Dell and had breakfast at Yesterday's Cafe - delightful restaurant in an old one room school. We biked 50 miles to the top end of Lima Reservoir on Red Rock River.

 

Wednesday, June 25 - Day 4: Today was a long 40 mile ride over Red Rock Pass @ 7,200 feet to Lake Henry, then on up to the Continental Divide where it is the border between Montana and Idaho. That night I slept with my head in Montana and feet in Idaho at 7,200 feet.

 

Thursday, June 26 – Day 5: We set out this morning from the Continental Divide and biked 30 miles to field camp a couple of miles short of Big Springs, Idaho.

 

Friday, June 27 - Day 6: Set out from our camp site and bicycled pass Big Springs Camp and traveled 43 miles; when I was able to receive a cell phone signal, I learned that Andrew and Tawsha had given birth to a healthy daughter, Gracie Raleigh.

 

Saturday, June 28 - Day 7: Our last day on the trail took us 55 miles from our camp at to Flagg Ranch, WY, 2 miles from West Yellowstone Park. I spent 6 hours and 11 minutes in the saddle; 40 miles of that was up continuous steep grade.

 

Sunday, June 29 - traveled from West Yellowstone through Jackson and back up I-15 to I-90; arrived back in Pullman about 11:00

-------------------

On Wednesday, I drove over to Seattle in order to begin my month long boat trip in the Gulf Islands in Canada with my dear friend Greg and his father, Keith.

 

July 3 – Departed from Elliot Bay and motored to Port Townsend where we anchored for the night at Fort Port Townsend.

 

July 4 – Motored to Roch Harbour on the north end of San Juan Island; anchored in the harbour. Watched fire works from our boat in evening.

July 5 - Went to Bedwell Harbour on South Pender Island where we went through Canadian Customs. Anchored in Poets Cove in Bedwell Harbour.

 

July 6 – Poets Cove Spent the day on board.

 

July 7 – Left Poets Cove under clear skies and went to Otter Bay on North Pender Island where we dropped anchor.

 

July 8 – Departed Otter Bay and went to James Bay on Prevost Island where we anchored. Had a grand view of an awesome sunset.

 

July 9 – Spent the morning hiking around Prevost Island; left in early afternoon for Montegue Harbour on Gabriola Island, where we anchored for the night. We went ashore in the evening and took a bus from the dock to Hummingbird Pub.

 

July 10 – Started the day having a cinnamon role on the floating bakery that come to the Bay every Thursday morning. Motored to Ganges on Salt Spring Island and moored at the marina.

 

July 11 – Departed Ganges about 1:30 for Sidney; anchored at the sand spit on Sidney Island.

 

July 12 Saturday – went back to Sidney and moored at the marina. I spent much of the afternoon exploring downtown Sidney; That evening we went to Butchart Gardens. The fireworks display was incredible.

 

July 13, Sunday – Spent the day touring Victoria; since Keith had grown up in Victoria, he gave us a royal tour.

 

July 14, Monday – Spent the morning in Sidney and then motored back to Sidney Island where we anchored. Played horse shoes on the sandy beach.

 

July 15 – Spent the morning walking on the sand spit and then left for Telegraph Harbour on Thetis and Kuper Islands.

 

July 16 – Departed early and went to Wallace Island; we stern anchored in Conover Bay.

 

July 17 – Left Conover Bay at 9:00 in order to catch a favorable tide; we anchored in Pirates Cove on DeCourcy Island.

 

July 18, Friday – Took an enjoyable walk on DeCourcy Island (this was the only place on our whole trip that we encountered mosquitoes). We left Pirates Cove and motored to Newcastle Island, where we anchored in Mark Bay just across from Nanaimo.

 

July 19, Saturday – Motored to Nanaimo where we tied up at the marina.

 

July 20, Sunday – Spent the day visiting with Greg's relatives, who live about 40 miles north of Nanaimo.

 

July 21, Monday – Left Nanaimo about noon and went to Silva Bay on the north end of Gabriola Island, where we anchored. Canada's only school for wooden boat building is located here.

 

July 22, Tuesday – We left Silva Bay and motored to Thetis Island where we anchored in North Cove near a camp for young people learning to participate in water games.

 

July 23, Wednesday – We left North Cove in mid morning and returned to Montague Bay - made a quick stop to hang a plaque in an old pub, - and then on to St. James Bay.

 

July 24, Thursday – Motored to Ganges where we spent the afternoon, and then on to Poets Cove on Bedwell Harbour. .

 

July 25, Friday – We spent most of the day at Poets Cove. Went ashore and played Frisbee golf on an incredible 27 hole course. About 5:00 we set sail for Sidney Island where we anchored for the night.

 

July 26, Saturday – We motored three miles to Sidney where we moored at the marina.

 

July 27, Sunday – Spent the morning on the water front at Sidney. Watched dozens of long boats with 8-10 native Americans rowing their way to a Native American sporting contest. We departed from Sidney at mid-day for Roch Harbor where we returned to the states through US Customs.

 

July 28, Monday – Arrived back at Elliot Bay about 2:00 and spent 3 hours getting the boat in ship shape after living on it for for weeks.

 

14 Aug 2008 Tony Lutz (Responding to ATP of same date):  The study of our past in the Province is important. The turbulence the Province has experienced is disturbing but it prompts us to reflect on solutions. The Catholic Church has to support "Humanae Vitae" and preach sexual purity and larger families. No use to pray for vocations if we don't have the children within orthodox families. Then the next most important thing is for the Friars to live holy lives. It is that example that attracts. Liberalism scares away vocations. No need to wring hands. The solution is prayer, penance, fasting and being on fire for Christ. We live in a very corrupting society. Counter-culturalism is the demand of the times.

 

17 Aug 2008 Jim Sexton (to Gael):  Could you believe it. Caroline (our eldest) is reading Balthazar. With your unquestionable photographic memory of literature, you know that's a very good omen. Yet to be married, Caroline is going on 29 and still lives, rather hibernates in her Paris, France Fung-Shui apartment. So if Lawrence Durrell's Alexandrian Quartet can't get her thinking about love and loving, I don't know who can.

I was wondering, how old were you and Susan when you got married (as for us, I was going on 30. Cathy whom I robbed from the cradle was less (-6). Is 29 old for a girl?

Up to date, Pascale (our second) seems to be the only productive "bunny" in the family with 2 little Turks who ceaselessly pop around full of life, laughs and fun. I doubt Jerome, our youngest is very keen on populating the species. At 22, he's into flying airplanes and probably into girls, but that's none of my business.

Caroline, she is our biggest concern at present. Paris is over populated with what they call "La Vieille Fille". So what do you think? Should I fly over there and arrange a marriage like old time papas used to do, or simply sit back and relax-max until cupid lands in Paris?

NB. Oh, I forgot. Caroline's doors remain always open to you and Susan as soon as you get the "wanderlust" again. In Paris, the city has motor scooters now that you rent almost anywhere with a Visa card to spin around town with. Far more road worthy than the bicycles we found for you and Susan to bike from Burgundy to Germany back in the 70s.

17 Aug 2008 Gael Stahl (responds to Sexton): Delightful letter, Jim. Caroline is older than you were when she read Balthazar. About the same age I was when I read it. I must have read Justine at 30 or 31 after you turned me on to The Alexandrian Quartet while visiting over CTU in Chicago. I read Balthazar the first year I was in Nashville 1969-70, and Mount Olive and Clea within the next 12 months. When Susan and I hooked up July 3, 1973, we named our first dog/puppy, Justine. Justine died while we were in France with you in 1979.

That started our two-year travels, and when we returned to Nashville in 1981, we decided to get married in October as a way to get old friends together again. Mooney did his usual memorable ceremony. Susan and I recited "The Owl and the Pussy Cat Went to Sea." Edward Lear's masterpiece. I was 42, she 33. She made me pursue her for 8 years, then she caught me -- more or less. I waited until about six years later to get the marriage license.

Caroline comes decades later. The bar is now older. She's on track to marry at an almost average age. Mooney's kids - all older than yours - are all still single and Mike and Judy sometimes wonder, too. But they're doing fine and that makes us all feel fine. And, they have always had such neat boy/girl friends.

Your other letter was the first time I heard of (or remember) your variety of higher education venues. Of course I knew about Saint Joseph's College at Rensselaer, Ind. I'd have sworn I never heard you were at Fordham and Loyola, too. Must have been shortly after Mooney and I left you in Chicago to carry on in the autumn of 1969. You surely did have some great influences to help you become the man you became. By the way, the professor you liked and called "Gerraine" did have a French sounding last name. It was Geron Fournell. He taught me in theology, and I found him energizing. He made us think and explore for ourselves. Took us to first sources like the gospel rather than commentaries of others. Jerry Etzkorn did that for us in philosophy, rather than giving us pre-packaged scholasticism.

And don't kid yourself, you've done a lot with it. You keep forgetting what a totally attractive, inspiring person you are to so many. And many ask me where you are, how you're doing. You took a path that all knew would be interesting - to say the least. I'm surprised, and I was there with you, even from a distance. Compare yourself to no one. You're incomparable.