The Journey

Renewal of Vows

2009-05-30T07:49:00.000-07:00

(Closing Mass -- Renewal of Vows)

What better way to end this part of my renewal than to be at a Eucharist with our Superior General, Fr. Jan and the community here in the General House? It was a wonderful celebration in which Fr. Jan received our renewal of vows (chastity, poverty, and obedience) as lived according to the intention expressed in our Constitutions. As he sent us forth from Mass he reminded us of Fr. Colin's letter to the first missionaries among whom was St. Peter Chanel. I'll share a small quote with you because while Colin wrote it to those first missionaries, it is spoken to all of us...

"Never count upon yourselves, either in prosperity or in adversity, but rely solely on Jesus and Mary: the more diffident you are in yourselves, and the more confident you are in God, the more light and grace will you draw upon yourselves."
(JC Colin, Letter to the first departing missionaries, 13 October 1836)

I pray that I can / we can more completely rely on Jesus and Mary.

(Final group picture / SM Renewal Spring 2009)

After the Eucharist we gathered for a drink and then shared a wonderful meal. It was a good way to end these six blessed weeks. Thanks to the Sisters and to the General House Community for wonderful hospitality!

(Frs. Hubert, Ron, Michael, and John in the community room.)

I have one more day here and am not sure whether I'll venture out or just get ready to leave early on Monday. But either way, I'll be back home soon.

Last of the Four Major Basilicas -- San Pietro

2009-05-29T06:41:00.000-07:00

(Front of St. Peter's Basilica -- dome by Bramante.)

Fr. Joel and I left for St. Peter's at 8:00am after prayer and Mass. Our hope was to get to the Basilica before the hordes of tourists. We were successful! There was no line to enter and inside was still relatively quiet. Chairs were already set up for Sunday's feast of Pentecost so the much of the middle section was closed off. But you could still see the grandeur of the place. It is huge! But because of the perfect proportions, it doesn't seem huge. But it is.

(The tomb of St. Peter -- hard to see, but if you look closely,
you can see an upside down cross to the left of the photo.
Tradition holds that Peter was crucified upside down.)

After wandering around a bit, I visited the tomb of St. Peter (Confessio). Of course, I was not able to get as close as I would have liked. But that's the way it is in St. Peter's. After sitting down on the ground near the tomb to pray, a guard came up and said, "Prego, prego no, no, no!" I guessed that meant no sitting down. So, I headed to the Blessed Sacrament Chapel.

I also visited the Pieta by Michealangelo, and the funerary of Blessed John XXIII (who called for the second Vatican Council). In each of these places pilgrims were praying, and so I remembered you all in my prayers, especially for the success of your up-coming exams.

Before we headed home for dinner, we visited Castel San Angelo. It was originally built as a Roman tomb (Hadrian's Tomb). But was eventually used as a fortification for Popes. It's also the site of some scenes from the new movie "Angels and Demons."

(St Michael the Archangel -- sits atop Castle San Angelo.)

We also welcomed back Fr. Craig Larkin. He was gone for 3 days of meetings. Sorry, Craig, we didn't realize you had left!

Basilica of St Paul / outside the walls of Rome

2009-05-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

(Front facade of the Basilica of St. Paul.)

The Basilica of St Paul (one of the 4 major Basilicas of Rome) can hold twenty five thousand people! It is a huge Basilica to say the least. It's also one of the quieter Basilica's because it is a bit more difficult to get to. Tradition and recent archeological evidence holds that this is the burial place of St. Paul. As in the Basilica of St. Peter, the main Papal Altar is situated over the tomb of St. Paul. I was unable to get good pictures inside as the lighting wasn't adequate. But his tomb is definitely a sacred place for the Church.

(An unbelievable mosaic in the apse of the Basilica --
Jesus flanked by Peter, Paul, Andrew, and Luke.)

We celebrated Mass in the Chapel of St. Stefano (oddly enough the Chapel we used in Assisi was also dedicated to St Stefano). This was our last Mass in a place of pilgrimage. We were all reminded of the missionary zeal of St. Paul, and prayed that we too may be zealous for the missions that we are each charged with.

(Fr. Tim, who lead the Rome part of our renewal, was principle celebrant at our Mass at the Basilica.)

I took the opportunity to Concelebrate and offered the Mass for those Newman couples preparing for the sacrament of Matrimony.

This evening Ron, Bruce and I will venture out to find some Roman Pizza.

I will also attach a clip of the portico of St. Paul's. Now if the portico is this big imagine how big the Basilica is!

SMSM Hospitality

2009-05-27T09:13:00.001-07:00

(SMSM sisters with Kevin and Ron.)

This afternoon we shared a meal with the Marist Missionary Sisters. Many of you have met Sr. Christina who helped us with the Busy Students' Retreat these past two years -- she is a Marist Missionary Sister. The veteran Newman folks remember Sr. Avelina who helped with our Busy Students' retreat several years back -- she also is an SMSM sister.

It's hard to beleive that this congregation finds its roots in a group of lay women (they call them 'the Pioneers') who followed Francoise Perroton (the first pioneer) to Oceania to be of service to the people there. These pioneers were all from France and Francoise was enrolled in the Marist Third order. The courage to leave country, family, and friends to go off to distant lands for the Gospel is made even more courageous when you realize they went as individuals. Only later did they form a religious congregation -- Marist Missionary Sisters. Today they have missions in many, many places.

(We received a quick tour of the house before we headed back to Monteverde.)

Sharing a meal with them towards the end of our renewal was truly a blessing.

Tonight we head out to pray with the St. Egidio Community. They are a lay group, about 50,000 world wide who live the Gospel in a very real way both spiritually and in service to the poor and forgotten (Anawim). While the prayer will be in Italian, we are told that we'll feel their love for God and neighbor.

(Cross from St. Stefano's in Assisi -- where we had Mass.)

Catacombs of St. Callistus

2009-05-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

Underneath the city of Rome are catacombs -- ancient cemeteries. These were the places in which the early martyrs of the Roman Church were also buried. Scores of men and women, young and old were martyred during the persecutions. In many ways, the Church was built upon the blood of many martyrs.

(We sang the Salve Regina at the end of Mass in the catacombs of St. Callistus -- helped by the acoustics.)

The catacombs were places where the Christians also came to celebrate Eucharist away from Roman eyes. It gave these early Christians the chance to literally pray over the tombs of the martyrs. This is where the practice of having a relic of a saint in the Altar stone came from. As a matter of fact, many of the Churches in Rome are built over sacred burial spots or other holy places. St. Peter's Basilica, for example, is built over the place where St. Peter was buried.

As we celebrated Eucharist in the catacombs of St. Callistus Fr. John Hopkinson, SM reminded us of modern day martyrs -- people who have been killed in Latin America and other places because they cared for and stood with the oppressed. We only have to recall Bishop Romero, and four martyrs of El Salvador to realize that persecution still goes on today. Hopefully, you and I can be strengthened by their example for whatever small persecutions we endure as we do our best to live the Gospel.

We also spent some time this afternoon with the General Administration of the Society of Mary. These are the men who form the international leadership for the Society of Mary. They shared with us plans for a Society wide meeting this September -- called a Chapter. Please keep them and all the Marist delegates in your prayers as they work to further the mission of the Society of Mary.

(Waiting for the 75 bus -- Joe, Joel, and Guiliano with John in the background.)

Assisi Pilgrimage

2009-05-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

(Basilica of St. Francis)

We started out from the house this morning at 7:10am to make the train to Assisi. We all knew it would be a hot day, and it was! Although our time in Assisi was very limited it was a good day. And while there is no direct connection, that I know of, between Fr. Colin and St. Francis, Assisi is an important place of pilgrimage. The day included:

Mass at St Stephano (St. Stephen). Stephen was one of the first deacons and was stoned for preaching the about Christ. Fr. Joel lead us in prayer and gave us some food for thought about whether our hearts are open enough for the Spirit to enter. This was a quiet out of the way little church, and so it was easy to manage a prayerful celebration of Eucharist.

(Fr. Joel celebrating Mass at St Stefano's in Assisi.)

Some time in the Basilica of St. Francis which includes the wonderful Giotto frescoes of the life of St. Francis. The basilica has a lower Church as well, and below it is the actual tomb of St. Francis who is surrounded by the tombs of four of his original companions (no pictures allowed -- sorry!)

We also had a spectacular lunch looking over the Umbrian landscape. The food was excellent and WAY more than we needed.

(Lunch with a view. Apparently we owe Fr. Joe McLaughlin, SM thanks as he found this place on an earlier renewal. Thanks Joe!)

I spent about fifteen minutes praying before the tomb of St. Francis as many, many pilgrims walked by, touching the grate around his tomb, leaving candles to be used for the altar, and praying to this well known and popular Saint. I've been there before, and as before I was left with a real sense of peace. The life of St. Francis also reminds of the beauty of creation and our need to care for the environment as a gift from God.

The heat today got the better of most of us, and we dragged our sweaty bodies back to the train station. But it seems that the heat hit our fearless leader, Fr. Tim, the most. He needed a nap no matter where he was. Or maybe he's had his fill of us renewalists!

(Fr. Tim stretched out on the bench next Kevin Stewart at Assisi train station!)

Sabbath Rest

2009-05-24T07:38:00.000-07:00

(Marist General House in Rome. It was very quiet here today.)

The local Marist community in Rome abandoned us today! They went on a planned 'play day.' They drove to Orvieto for a recreation day -- well deserved. The few renewalists who remained in the house figured out how to work things, got laundry done, and endured the heat. It's hot here! A few like Fr. Ron ventured out in the heat. He's not home yet, so I don't know if he survived.

So, that means there is not much to share about the day. Of course, we had Mass and a meal. But otherwise, it was quiet for me

The 3 Americans did venture out last evening, however, to visit a few piazzas and to find some pizza for Fr. Ron. Tomorrow we take a train to Assisi for a vist to the Basilica and we'll have Mass together at the Church of Santo Stefano. We'll leave early for a two hour train ride. No doubt, the train will be warm as well. I'll revel in the cooler climes of SLO when I get home.

Here's a couple of images from last night's piazza visits. As you can see lots of folks were strolling around in the evening.

(Parching thirst in the heat of the afternoon.)

(Pantheon -- originally a temple to all gods. Now a Catholic Church ot the Marytrs.)

Linking Past to Future

2009-05-23T07:01:00.000-07:00

(Fr. Craig speaking Fr. Guiliano after the morning conference.)

Fr Craig Larkin, SM (Vicar General) spent some time with us this morning trying to help us link the past to the future. This renewal is supposed to be more than a simple exercise in historical study of our Marist foundations. It should have some affect in my life. Our morning of recollection gave us a chance to think about how to link the past to when we each get back to our communities. In other words, am I being useful to the Society of Mary, was the question for reflection.

The question was a bit unnerving to think about and answer. It goes deeper than: Have I been doing good ministry for the Church? It reaches the core of my identity as a Marist. In other words, I was asked if I have advanced the work of Mary in our world?

One fleeting thought I had was -- this is not a question for me to answer. It's a question my brothers in the Society of Mary have to answer for me. I'll continue to ponder the question. But I'm grateful that it was put to me so directly. I'm sure it will stay with me.

(Our period of recollection ended with
Mass in the General House Chapel.)

Late this afternoon, a couple of us will do the tourist thing and spend some time wandering around the piazzas of Rome. Hopefully, the heat won't melt us. And since Fr. Ron will be with us we'll eventually end up looking for a supper of light Roman pizza (and probably a glass or two of vino rossa).

(Dinner at the General House -- after the morning of recollection.)

Basilicas

2009-05-22T07:15:00.000-07:00

(Fr. Tim Costello orienting us for a visit to St. Mary Major.)

The weather here is nothing like SLO! It is really hot these days. This means getting around is not as pleasant as I hoped. But we are surviving and trying to do things earlier in the day.

This morning we visited two of the major Basilicas in Rome -- St. John Lateran and St Mary Major. The other two are St. Paul outside the walls of Rome and St Peter's in the Vatican. Both Basilicas we visited today are large. Being their earlier in the day meant the crowds were smaller and so spending a few moments in quiet prayer in each of these places was very possible.

(St. John Lateran Church -- Cathedral of Rome -- Pope's Church as Bishop of Rome.)

While neither of these places hold special interest in our Marist heritage, we do know that Fr. Colin, just like any other Catholic in Rome, would have visited these special places. He and his companions would have been impressed with these buildings. They are more ornate than the simple Churches of the Bugey mountains. I wonder whether Fr. Colin preferred the smaller, simpler churches he preached in? My guess is that while being impressed, he would have preferred the smaller and simpler.

(Ceiling of St. John's. Yes, it's painted with real gold. Very ornate and perhpas a bit over the top.)

Our small chapel at the Newman Center is nothing like these places physically. But when filled with you guys speaks volumes about FAITH.

The Missions of Oceania

2009-05-21T07:20:00.000-07:00

What gave these first Marists the courage to go to Oceania? They went without knowing exactly where they were going, and they didn't really know much about the area. They certainly didn't know the language! There was no way to Google information to prepare for what might be waiting for them. And yet, they went! They were inspired by people like St. Francis Xavier and other missionaries who brought the Gospel to distant lands. They were drawn by the Holy Spirit and fired by Mary's YES to bring the Word into the world. Amazing when you think about it!

(Picture of Bishop Pompallier in the sacristy of IC Church.)

That first group of Marists included Bishop Pompallier, who was connected to the Marists from early on. He was consecrated Bishop in a Church right near the offices of the Propagation of the Faith, which was the congregation in Rome in charge of the foreign missions. The name of the Church is Immaculate Conception.

Fr. Kevin Stewart Presided at our Mass there this morning remembering all those who went with Pompallier on that journey. We remembered that our brothers from that moment, frequently in great danger, spread the faith to Oceania by their presence. In word and in deed they lived the Gospel. We try to live up to their courage in our own time in our own mission fields. Not an easy thing to do!

(Kevin Stewart, SM celebrating Mass at Immaculate Conception Church.)

The day ended with a 'book launch' here at the General House (my first). Fr. Charles Girard, SM edited a 9 Volume Book of letters that the Marist missionaries from Oceania sent back to France. nfortunately, it's in French so I'm not able to read it. But Fr. Greiler edited a companion book in English to go along with Charlie's work. The books were being promoted here in Rome today. Fr. Girard and Fr. Greiler ought to be proud of their accomplishments -- we're all proud of them and their dedication to researching our Marist heritage and making it come alive for us.

(We also did a quick visit to the Spanish steps in Rome on the way back.)

Tour of Archives For The Society of Mary

2009-05-20T09:13:00.000-07:00

Today we were given a tour by Fr. Alois Grieler, SM of the Archives of the Society of Mary which are here in the General House. Sounds pretty boring doesn't it? Well........

Today I held in my hand Bishop Epalle's ring -- he was martyred in Oceania.

Today I saw and touched St. Peter Chanel's diary -- stained with his own blood. St. Peter Chanel is the Proto-Martyr of Oceania.

Today I saw Fr. Mayet's notebooks filled with the words of our Founder. During his lifetime Fr. Mayet took thousands of pages of notes on the words of Fr. Colin to his brothers in the Society of Mary and beyond.

(One of Fr. Mayet's Notebooks.)

Today I saw the signatures of the first Marists who took vows in 1836. The signers included Colin, Champagnat, Chanel, Favre, Declas, Seon, Teraillon, Bret, Maitrepierre, and more,

(Signatures of the Marists on the first retreat
after Papal Approval 1836)

Today, I saw a drawing by a Marist Missionary who experienced being attacked by local peoples in Oceania. It was the same attack that Bishop Epalle received a mortal wound.

(The above picture, while not clear, is the attack on Epalle and his group.)

To say the least the tour was exciting. The experience was one of seeing family heirlooms. Fr. Grieler reminded us that these are our treasures and he's right. It was a moving afternoon. I would venture a guess that all of us were moved at some level of our hearts. Our story as Marists is one to be proud of. We stand on the shoulders of men -- young and old -- who were courageous believers. They wanted to share Christ and the Gospel with the world and that did so at great cost. The living Gospel!

Fr. Bernd Leaves Us

2009-05-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow Fr. Bernd, who has been accompanying us on this journey heads back to La Neyliere. He leaves us in the capable hands of another Marist, Fr. Tim Costello. Tim handles the Rome part of the renewal. It will be sad to see Bernd go. He's made the pilgrimage a wonderful experience.

(Au revoir, Bernd!)

Today could be called Jesuit Day on the renewal. We spent the day focusing on the influence that the Jesuits had on Fr. Colin. It was interesting for me because this is not something that I was very familiar with in our history. I didn't know that Fr. Colin had shown a revised text of the Marist rule to Fr. Rosaven, an assistant General for the Jesuits, for advice. I didn't know that he found the Jesuit Consititutions (in the Casanatense Library) while in Rome on his first journey and that he used its structure to help form ours. I didn't know that Fr. Colin celebrated Mass at the altar of St. Aloysius (a Jesuit saint) in the Church of St. Ignatius. Even the Jesuit Superior General, Fr. Roothan, went out of his way to welcome Jean Claude to Rome on his second journey in 1842.

To say the least I learned a great deal today.

The highlight of the day was sitting in the room where St. Ignatuis died -- now a chapel. We prayed together in that place both in thanksgiving for this Jesuit influence, and for the charism that we possess as Marists.

(Room where St. Ignatius Loyola died.)

I also thanked St. Ignatius for the education I received at Loyola New Orleans.

(Painting of the death of St. Ignatius surrounded by his brothers. I don't know who painted it, but I'm sure it was someone famous!)

Colin's First Journey to Rome

2009-05-18T12:26:00.001-07:00

Imagine a simple country priest like Jean Claude Colin going to Rome to try to meet with the Pope! Now that takes some courage (guts). But he was convinced that he needed to put before the Pope Gregory XVI the full scope of the Society of Mary. He did this in 1833 along with Frs. Chanel (who would later be martyred in Oceania. This particular journey was not exactly success, but it does show the determined desire to do what he believed the Blessed Mother wanted him to do -- start the Society of Mary.

(Church of the Holy Apostles -- the building to left of the statues on roof is the Conventual Friary where Colin stayed for 3 months while in Rome in 1833)

So, today we walked this first Rome journey of Fr. Colin. We visited the Church of the Holy Apostles (which contain relics of Sts. James and Phillip) which is run by the Conventual Friars who offered Colin hospitality for 3 months after Frs. Chanel Bourdin returned to France. It's a huge Church by our standards for sure. Our hoped for Chapel at Newman won't be anything near as big!

We stood outside the Palace of the Odescalchi family where Jean Claude Colin met with Cardinal Odescalchi who was Prefect of the Sacred Congregation of Bishops and Regulars. This Cardinal eventually handed over the matter of the Society of Mary to Cardinal Castracane. The Odescalchi family still lives in this behemoth of a place.

(Shrine of Madonna dell'Archetto at which Colin frequently prayed.)

We also visited a little street shrine to Our Lady. A Shrine Fr. Colin passed frequently and stopped to prayer before regularly. These little shrines are all over Rome and all over France as well. They are called 'Madonnellas' - little Madonnas.

The final stop on the pilgrimage was for Mass in the Jesuit Novitiate Chapel -- the Chapel is really a small Church. This place holds significance for Marists because here at one of the side altars Fr. Colin said Mass several times in the month of November 1833. It was one of his favorite places. It's also the place where Jesuit Sts. Robert Bellarmine and Aloysius Gonzaga were Jesuit Novices. The Chapel is officially called -- Church of St. Andrea Al Quirinale -- because it is dedicated to St. Andrew and is located near the Quirinal Palace which was home to the Pope for some time. It was this palace, and not St. Peter's, where Colin met Pope Gregory XVI on September28, 1833.

(The side altar at which Fr. Colin said Mass a number of times while in Rome -- St. Adrea al Quirinale. We closed our Mass at the side altar.)

It was a pretty full day and one I enjoyed greatly. Of course, we also ate our meals at the General House with all brothers.

Roma

2009-05-17T12:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know, I didn't post anything yesterday (Saturday). By the time we got to the General House, met the community, had something to eat, and then enjoyed an evening beverage it was way too late for me. Sorry about that!

But we did arrive safely -- Easy Jet was a no frills airline, but the view over the Alps was wonderful. I can only imagine what it would have been like on a train. But flying was a bit cheaper.

(The man in the dark blue shirt is Fr. Jan Hulshoff, SM. He is our Superior General -- just finishing his eight year term.)

Today, after Mass, we took care of 'house business' -- getting the low down on the run of things here. Incidental things were explained, like how to post things, who to go to with questions and problems, computer things, were the laundry machines were, how meals work, etc. We also spent some quality time in the early evening sharing with the community here in Rome about ourselves and our ministries. Again, I was impressed by the sheer diversity of what we do and who we are.

(Thanks to Fr Craig Larkin, SM we found a nice quiet place to share a meal.)

In addition to those highlights today was also a 'Matt Gonzalez' day. We were fortunate enough to be able to meet for a meal with his friend Fatima, who is on her way back to the states after her time studying in Florence. Both she and Matt were involved with a group of Catholic students who met in Florence to support each other in their spiritual growth -- sounds like Newman to me! Of course, it took some effort for Matt to find his way to Monteverde where our General House is, but he did it. AND it was great seeing him. He's looking forward to his return to Poly for one more year.

(Matt and I on the roof of the General House -- great views.)

Au revoir!

2009-05-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

Our time in La Neyliere has come to it's conclusion. Tomorrow we head to our General House in Rome for the final two weeks. I'm not exactly sure what will take place while in the eternal city, but I do know that we are to visit the sites Fr. Colin visited while trying to get the Society of Mary approved. He wanted approval for a congregation that included priests, brother, sisters, and lay people -- Rome didn't seem to like that idea. It appeared too out of the ordinary.

In any case, I like Rome (Fr. Ron is a pizza fanatic so he'll love Rome as well). Tomorrow's travel will be a study in trust for me. Fr. Bernd took care of the arrangements. So, I'm going to the Lyons airport without an e-ticket, without a locator number, and don't even know the flight number or time of the flight. I wonder if I'll sleep tonight.

(Here's me thinking about no ticket, no locator number, no flight number or time of departure on an airline called -- Easy Jet!)

My time here in La Neyliere has been wonderful and sacred as well. I pray that our congregation will hold onto this patrimony until the bitter end.

As they say in French -- Au revoir! See you in Roma!

Gracious Choice

2009-05-14T07:14:00.000-07:00

"Gracious Choice" is an important phrase to us Marists, It reminds us that we are part of Mary's family by her initiative and not ours. But earlier today, I was challenged to hear this phrase in a more personal way.

(A stone statue of Mary and teh Child Jesus -- La Neyliere is full of these in various nooks and crannies. I like this one because of it simplicity.)

Fr. Bernd asked me how I understood ‘gracious choice.’ I shared with him all the 'providence' that has gone into my being a Marist. My birth date, my connection with Mary, my not liking the feel of Cathedral Latin high school in Brooklyn where I thought I was going, Fr. George Wallace’s visit to OLA with 2 students from Marist Prep – inviting anyone who felt he MIGHT have a vocation to come to the minor seminary. All these ‘coincidences’ in the eyes of faith aren’t really coincidences – it was the finger of God. This is where I have been called to be by a gracious choice.

Then (there's always a then!) Bernd asked me to prayerfully imagine that Mary and Jesus come to me and simply ask me to join their family – to be a part of their family. Now that’s an image worth reflecting on! This is the gracious choice of Mary. She invites me into her family with her son, Jesus, and her husband, Joseph. No conditions about doing something first or changing something first. Just – ‘come join my family.’ Conversion, change, formation all can come later. I can learn it on the way. Gracious Choice!

(Visiting the l'Hermitage of the Marist Brothers.
Amazing that they built this place
with the sweat of their brow. It was Marcellin's way!)

This is what it means to be Marist (being part of Mary’s family). It means to invite others into this family -- a family with a spirit of humility, openness, and mercy. This literally is the ‘work of Mary’. This is probably what Colin meant when he talked about creating a new Church.

Tomorrow is free day -- to prepare for the trip to Rome. So, there'll be packing and things. Hopefully, a good run as well. Not sure how running will be in Rome. I'll miss the countryside. I'll do my best to keep the posts up -- for those interested, but I'm not sure about what the internet facilities will be like there.

Not So Quiet Quiet Day

2009-05-13T11:46:00.001-07:00

(Can you see the kids in the background? About 65 of them are here They're from a Marist School somewhere here in France. And the Seniors are playing Bocci Ball.)

Our silent day today was not so silent. La Neyliere was invaded by seniors playing Bocci Ball, and by lots of children and young people from a Marist school. They came to prepare for what is called a 'profession of faith'. By the looks of their bags they’ll be here for months. While, the property is not quiet, the noise and energy around us reminds me that life goes on even when I am in this kind of sacred space of quiet days. Sacred space can’t really be confined. It’s where I/we find God. He was fairly easy to find in the play of both young and old.

There’s no doubt in my mind that Colin would be happy with the way the property he bought at La Neyliere is being used. It’s probably not exactly what his 1800 mind would have envisaged – but I thnk he would have seen what's happening here now as a kind of mission – except in this regard the folks are coming here instead of the missionaries going there. It’s a reverse Bugey experience! Frs. Bernd, Paul, and Jean-Bernard are a good missionary team along with the rest of the staff here in reaching out to every and anyone who comes through these doors.

(A portrait in oil of Fr. Colin in the Colin Museum.
It was painted by Marist Father Philipon, during Colin's life.)

The Marist missionary spirit lives on here as it does in all the places where Marists are.

Tomorrow is Fr. Bruce's birthday! We won't talk about how old he is, but he's gettin' up there. We'll have to toast him in St. Symphorien.

(Here's a picture of Fr. Bruce standing in front of the Marist Brothers
Cross outside St. Marcellin Champagnat's birthplace.
It has the names of all the places where Marist Brothers are --
it's a long list. Can't tell whether the cross is tall or Bruce is short.)

Luxury

2009-05-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

Luxury was the thought that came to mind as I walking quietly and saying the rosary this afternoon. I am well aware of the luxury of this time that has been given to me by God, the community and by Fr. John. Who else besides religious can take 6 weeks in a gorgeous setting, sharing with ‘family’ members from all over the world, visiting sites family sites (Marist Sites)? Not many! Most are just trying to get by, to make ends meet, to find work, to solve family problems, to find a safe place to sleep tonight, etc.

(You don't see too many of these anymore, but this is a confessional in St. Jerome's Church in the Bugey Mountains. Fr. Colin heard many a
confession in this confessional during the three to four week mission.)

So, given the situation, I want to use this time responsibly and have a grateful heart for these weeks. I’ve used the time to pray for you (students at the Newman Center), my community members who are suffering, my family, my friends, and for my vocation which is upper most in my mind as I walk this Marist pilgrimage.

I’ve used this time to think about Colin and his herculean efforts to get the Society started. We honored him tonight by individually palcing flowers on his tomb in the Chapel. I’ve also used the time to think about St. Marcellin and his desire to teach young people about Christ – a ministry close to my heart. I’ve used the time to remember St. Peter Chanel’s seeming failure in mission, AND how God turned that seeming failure into something great (the conversion of the Island of Futuna) – like the Cross of Christ.

(Stain glass window of St. Peter Chanel's martyrdom
in the Chapel at the Seminary of Belley.)

In these next few days of prayer in La Neyliere (before we head to Rome) I will remember in a special way those who will be Confirmed at the Newman Mass on Sunday (17 May 2009). I will pray that the Spirit will strengthen you for the mission of living the Gospel everyday. Your desire to re-commit yourselves to Christ and the Church (hopefully under the banner of Mary) is an inspiration to us all. Thanks!

Colin A Man of Patience and Determined Discipline

2009-05-11T11:42:00.000-07:00

(The gang overlooking Cerdon Valley where Fr. Colin had his first assignment as a priest and where he spent many, many hours writing our Rule.)

The next several days are 'basically' silent days – dedicated to prayer and reflection over what we’ve experienced and seen.

My thought today was mostly about patience and discipline. These are gifts you Newman folks know I need more of. It took twenty years from the pledge of Fourviere (23 July 1816) to the juridical birth the Society of Mary (29 April 1836). During that time Fr. Colin patiently and with determined disciplined worked towards getting approval for the Society of Mary.

Today I feel more than grateful for his patience and determination. The Society of Mary has been officially my home since 1981 (but in actuality since 1971 when I entered Marist Prep the minor seminary in Pennsylvania). It’s where my confreres are. It’s where I’ve ministered and devoted more than half of my 51 years of life.

Twenty years! Who has that kind of patience anymore? Who has that kind of discipline anymore?

Clearly, Jean Claude Colin mustered this patience and discipline for twenty years because he knew this is what the Blessed Mother wanted. She wanted a Society that would be her supportive presence to the Church – a supportive presence that was simple, unobtrusive, always saying 'Yes' to God's grace, and full of zeal for doing whatever God’s wants.

(Another view of Cerdon. The Parish Church is the building in the upper part of picture with the two windows in the tower.
If you look closely you can see Mary on the top of the hill.)

I’m glad I was called to this Society. It has brought me a great deal of joy and has given meaning to my life in all it's ups and downs. Many of you SLO Newman folks have known F.r John and I for more than a couple of years -- you have some implicit sense of who the Marists. It's in your blood. I’m wondering if any of you are feeling called to join Fr. Colin’s Society. It’s a question worth pondering.

Solemn Vespers Day

2009-05-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

Sunday is always a day that is a bit quieter. The weather was not great today. I keep praying that some of this rain will head your way. We did have Mass this morning with a large group of Lay Marists from the various parts of France. They converged for a weekend together of prayer and sharing. It was wonderful to see. Lots of children and several teenagers (we did not see the teenagers at breakfast -- go figure!). They had lots of life and while I could have used John Weege to translate the homily for me, it was wonderful celebrating with this lively group.

(Frs Juliano, Joel, Brother Leonard,
and me -- I have no idea where we were!

PS: I was told by our director -- who's apparently reading the blog -- Yikes!
that this shot is in St. Marcellin Champagnat's bedroom in Rosey near Marhles.)

Several of us also toured the Musem of Oceania, which is here at La Neyliere. Again, language created some difficulties but with some help we got through that as well.

(Museum of Oceania / guided tour with language difficulties.)

I also decided to take a 360 degree shot (movie) of the property so you can see what the interior of the property looks like. It's quite beautiful, and aside from St Foy, I think, it's the only other place we own where Fr. Colin lived and worked. As Bernd would say, it would be a sin to lose it. I AGREE. (See the video below. Remember! I've not done this before and I have no idea what I'm doing. I hope it works.)

Tomorrow we start a more quiet routine -- they are called 'deepening' days. In other words, it's time to contemplate all that we have taken in these past several weeks and allow God to do His work. Thankfully, I'll also have the 28 days in Colorado to process all this as well. I'm grateful to my brother Marist for gifting me with all this blessed time.

Saturday at La Neyliere

2009-05-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

Fr. Grelier spent time with us this morning trying to find a common thread through our Marist Spirit and heritage -- hidden and unknown, Mary's support of the Church at the beginning, Mary's support of the Church at the end of time, the fact that we do all kinds of ministry, our commitment to the local Church, our commitment to the missions, being instruments of divine mercy, etc. These pieces all seem so diverse and so disconnected. What is the common thread of our spirit?

(Statue of Mary in St. Marcellin Champagnat Chapel of Marhles -- it reads [I think], "all to Jesus through Mary.")

I may not share this correctly (so if you're reading this Alois -- don't hold me to it), but if I understood him it seems the common thread is that we Marists (like Mary) make ourselves available to God's grace for whatever he calls us to. We are his instruments, as Mary was. We try to live humbly, very aware of our weaknesses, and our unworthiness, but OPEN to God's call, and knowing that God can do great things through us. We do this in the Spirit of Mary moving into the background so that God's grace can take center stage.

Well that was a feeble attempt to sum up what I heard today and will continue to pray with. But it energized me again, as I was energized when I took my vows as a Marist. I want to be like Mary -- open, receptive, full of zeal, an instrument of God's grace.

It was also a running day. As I ran in this beautiful pastoral setting, I was reminded of those mornings at Cal Poly when the scent from the Dairy unit wafts down to Newman. The scent was strong here today as well. I thought of Jared milking cows!

(This is the type of landscape I enjoy while running aroundLa Neyliere.
WOW! Lots of green because there's lots of rain.)

The other good news was Frs. Bruce, Ron, and Joel walked into town and the store was finally open. So, at Solemn vespers tomorrow evening (Sunday) I'll be able to have and share Vodka & Tonics with Marists who never even heard of this mixture of the gods.

(But be assured, we're praying as well.
No, Rocky, this picture was not staged!)

I also checked out the pictures of the camping retreat on the website. Friday night did not look FUN. I'm glad I wasn't there to deal with the rain. I'm sure I would have gone home to sleep. It's why God invented beds.

Food For Thought

2009-05-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

WARNING: Today's blog is bit deeper and contains some soul searching questions for me.

Today (Friday) and tomorrow (we even have to work on Saturday!) we are hearing from Alois Grelier, SM. Alois is sharing with us his insights into our foundations and especially about his views on Fr. Colin our founder. He's given me lots of food for thought.

For example, I wonder, if I've shared enough with you students at Newman about this man who grew up in a tiny village, was rather shy, and even a bit traumatized from the French Revolution, and how God transformed him into a Founder with the courage to approach Bishops, Papal Nuncios, and finally the Pope himself trying to get the Society of Mary approved as the Blessed Mother wanted. Probably not! I'm discovering in a new way a man of great courage and determination, a holy man who was determined to do what the Blessed Mother asked him to do
.

(Fr. Colin's Tomb here in the Chapel of La Neyliere. A special place of mine to meditate in the morning before breakfast.)

Alois has also put forth a challenge about some of the spiritual practices that Fr. Colin expected of the members of this congregation to keep us united and to remind us that our life in community is a primary mission of the Society of Mary. Many of these spiritual practices have been lost over time (at least to me), and need to be retreived. For example, he spoke specifically about a Midday Prayer Fr. Colin saw as part of our life as members of Mary's family. It was totally new to me. It's something I need to think about. He also spoke about Fr. Colin's desire that we mark the morning, the midday, and the evening with the Salve Regina as a reminder that we are about creating in our lives and mission the House of Mary.

(Fr. Colin erected this statue of Mary in the courtyard of Belley College in 1833 as a reminder that this ministry was placed in Mary's hands. The ceremony installing it impressed the faculty and student body.)

Alois also reminded us that Liturgy shapes our identity. So the question is: What liturgical practices do I do or does my community do that specifically speaks about our Marist Heritage. I was grateful for today's topics. They made me think deeper and wonder whether I am being the Marist I am called to be.

I'm also well aware that you all are either in, near, of just coming out of mid-terms. You've been in my prayers for a successful quarter. Our Blessed Mother is interceeding for your success as well. By the way, Fr. Joel wanted a picture of all of you. So...............

Recovery From 3 Day Pilgrimage

2009-05-07T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today was a quiet day. More like a recovery from the intense three days of traveling and visiting a 'plethora' of sites (I know it's a big word). I was able to get a good run in this afternoon and the weather was gorgeous -- for the first time. That's means I was able to run in t-shirt and shorts. Believe me it's not easy to run after lunch which always includes wine. But I'm disciplined, and very concerned about the amount of food and cheese I'm consuming!

We spent time today sharing our impressions of these days. Of course, we talked about the hospitality of Sr. Marie (a Marist Sister) who received us in Bon Repos (John Weege can translate that for you non-Francophiles). Everyone also spoke of the Chanel Shrine and the children we encountered there -- it added an aspect of real current life to our visit. It's amazing how we are each touched by something a little different. I guess that's God's way of keeping us open.

(Frs. Bruce, Joel, and me standing before St. John Vianney's Confessional. Notice it's been picked apart by folks looking for secondary relics of this great man.)

We are to meet for a libation tonight to greet our presenter (Fr. Alois Grelier, SM) for the next two days. He's a German Marist. I'm looking forward to hearing him and learning from his research and experience.

Well I'm off to the libation. But just to show you that I am working! See me at my desk? Miss y'all at Newman. I'm praying for you as you gear up for all the mid-terms.

Belley & St. Peter Chanel

2009-05-06T12:07:00.001-07:00

I did not blog yesterday because after dinner we went out to celebrate the anniversary of John Hopkinson’s going to Mexico 32 years ago. He’s now living and working with Base Christian Communities in Bolivia. We also ended watching some soccer in the bar – Kevin Stewart gave me the fundamentals.

I was also glad to hear that the retreat went very well – great job, Joe House! I’m glad I wasn’t there to have to deal with the rain on Friday night!!!

Our day pilgrimage on Tuesday was filled with many special moments.

We did a mile and a half hike from one village to another to give a sense of what it would be like walking through the Bugey Mountains – fortunately for us it was a little warmer than the cold of winter when they would have done it.

(The Bugey Mountain Region -- our hike was fantastic!)

We visited Bon Repos – the historical Mother House of the Marist Sisters. This is the house that Mother Jeanne Marie Chavoin and Marie Jotillon first moved into when the Colin brothers came to Belley as home base for their little mission band.

(Belley 'College' hallway -- during Colin's time it was filled with high school students. Colin, Chanel, and others walked these halls.)

We spent some time at the Belley College where the Marist Mission Band lived above the Chapel in deplorable conditions. It’s the same school Jean Claude was eventually appointed as Director and saw the statue of Mary that he erected to dedicate the endeavor to the Blessed Mother.

We also prayed in the L’Capuciniere, which was the where the first Marists took the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience after Rome approved the Congregation (1836). While it no longer serves as a Chapel and is owned by the government – we could still feel the presence of those first pioneers.

We ended the day by celebrating Eucharist in the first Chapel of Bon Repos where Jeanne Marie Chavoin (founder of Marist Sisters) and her group of sisters lived.

To say the least the day was full and it touched my heart. It was a blessing that I am more than grateful for.

Tomorrow (Wednesday) we spend the day contemplating the life of St. Peter Chanel. I’m sure the highlight will be Mass at his Shrine in Cuet.....................

_______________________________________________________

I was right! Mass at Peter Chanel's little shrine was incredible. His selflessness, his simplicity, and his perseverance even when things weren't going well rang out in the Chapel. Even the little group of children who were on site that day to prepare for First Communion seemed to fit perfectly.

(Mass at St. Peter Chanel Shrine)

We also visited the Church of St. John Vianney. He was a good friend of the early Marists. Since this is long, I'll just close with the picture of his body -- he is one of the incorruptibles of the Church.

(St. John Vianney's Body in the Basilica of Ars.)

Cerdon & Belley

2009-05-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

(Cerdon Valley -- see all those vineyards?)

Guess what? Internet access is available even at the old seminary of Belley! I haven't a clue how old the building is we're staying in. Suffice it to say it's OLD. It's big and old. But it has internet.

Our trip today was spectacular. We walked in Jean Claude Colin's footsteps from ordination through the first ten years of his priestly life. This is where he spent these years. Cerdon!!!! It's the place where he settled into his priesthood and allowed God to mold him into the religious, priest, and man he would be.(me overlooking Cerdon -- just tasting the wine)

Cerdon is a beautiful place and has lots of vineyards. And they make great wine -- I've already tasted some of their famous sparkling wine. I'm waiting to taste the 'still' wine that Cerdon is famous for. Of course, that wasn't the focus of Fr. Colin. He came here to preach the Gospel and to work towards bringing the Blessed Mother's desire of a Society to fulfillment.

Along with his brother Fr. Pierre Colin and eventually Fr. Declas they started preaching missions in the Bugey Mountain area. It's beautiful here! Fr. Bruce was lucky enough to have his Mass day fall on this day. So, he Presided at the Mass for us in the Church of Cerdon where Fr. Colin was a curate. It was an amazing experience.

Enough for now. It's late and I have to get up early. Hope the retreat went well you were all in my prayers.

(Fr. Bruce Presiding at Mass in Cerdon -- Fr Colin's original assignment as a priest.)

(I'm standing in front of the original altar used during Colin's time for Mass.)

Big Pilgrimage

2009-05-03T04:39:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (Monday) we head out for at 3 day pilgrimage. This one is a bit more distant and so we will not return to La Neyliere until Wednesday evening. So, this may be the last blog until then -- not sure about internet connection where we're going (Bugey Mountains -- for Rocky the 'g' in Bugey is pronounced like a 'j' as in jar).

(A shot of the mountains near around LaValla -- where St. Champagnat ministered. We're told the Bugey are bigger!)

This part of the pilgrimage will include Jean Claude Colin's first years as a priest in Cerdon (a mountain parish), and his time in Belley (where he and the first Marist priests headquartered for the Bugey Missions. Colin was eventually appointed director of the school). These were the foundation years when Colin was working to keep the small group of those committed to starting the Society of Mary together, writing a Rule for the Society, and trying to get approval for the group from Rome. They were not easy years for him.

Cerdon is also the place where Colin underwent almost a complete transformation. In this place he became a vibrant preacher, a sought after spiritual advisor, and a decisive man. Pierre Colin (his blood brother) was the Pastor and, no doubt, he encouraged Jean Claude's innate abilities to come forth.

(The grave of Venerable Fr. Jean Cluade Colin in the Chapel of La Neyliere)

The Parish Missions the first Marists were involved in were a method of trying to reinvigorate the faith in God's people after the Revolution. Colin and his little team did these missions in the Bugey mountains in the winter (the only time the farmers were able to come to something like this). These missions were filled with the hardship of tough living situations, the bitter cold of winter, and the poverty of the local people. Yet, Colin said they were the best years of his life. I think it's true that hardship can truly bond a group together.

I'm told that the region is more mountainous than we've seen so far. I wouldn't want to be walking long distances in LaValla or Rosey. They seem mountainous enough! Fr. Bernd promises a hike for us from one of the mountain villages where a mission was preached to another village (where a mission was preached - I think). Thankfully it will be downhill all the way.

(Another shot of the mountains of LaValla and Rosey)

Following Champanat

2009-05-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

(Statue of St. Marcellin Champagnat in the Church in Marhles / his parish Church growing up.)

(Frs. Ron and Bruce and Br. Leonard outside a section of Marcellin's family home.)

What a day! Like the other pilgrimages it was long, but good. We encountered wonderful hospitality from the Marist Brothers in both Rosey, where Marcellin was born, and in LaValla, where Marcellin Champagnat was first assigned as a new priest. In both places we were able to see and feel the love that these men have for their founder. Naturally, we also visited The Hermitage which is a place dear to the Brothers. Marcellin bought this property and they (the brothers with Marcellin under the direction of trained masons) built the
ir new home when they quickly outgrew LaValla.

(The Hermitage under renovation)

The property is beautiful and the buildings are impressive. It's under a great deal of renovation now so it's covered with scaffolding, but it is still very impressive to think that this was built by the labor of young Marist brothers (some of whom were in their early teens!!).

What was clear to me today was the purpose that Marcellin felt and transmitted to his community. Sharing Christ with young people, and helping them to understand the faith was their driving force. They felt an urgency to the mission. It's a shame that we don't feel that same urgency in our time. If we did, perhaps we would be more passionate about our faith and our mission.

The last thing we did at the Hermitage was take some time in the Chapel praying before the reliquary of St. Marcellin Champagnat's remains. I think I can safely say that the whole renewal group was moved in those moments of silent prayer. St. Marcellin pray for us, and inspire others to take up the work of Mary as Brothers, Sisters, and Priests!

It's hard to believe that it's been ten years since Pope John Paul II Canonized Marcellin -- what a great day that was for the Marist Brothers and for the whole Marist Family.

(The renewal group is seated 'around' a dining room table built by Marcellin Champagnat and used by the original community of brothers.)

St. Marcellin Champagnat

2009-05-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we head out on pilgrimage to the places of St. Marcellin Champagnat. He was one of the original signers of the pledge in Fourviere (the commitment to start the Society of Mary -- July 23, 1816). He was also the one who felt strongly that the group needed brothers to teach young people the faith. He was a very charismatic figure and soon after ordination began to attract candidates to the Little Brothers of Mary in the small village of LaValla. The Marist Brothers today have schools all over the world.

Marcellin was born on 20 May 1789 in Rosey a little hamlet near Marhles. He was a contemporary of Fr. Colin and they met in seminary of St. Irenee. Both of these men had a strong sense of what the Blessed Mother wanted of them and they did it. Of course, this raises the question as to whether you and I are aware of God's call in our own lives. We need to keep reminding ourselves that life is not so much about what we want, but what God wants of us. For me -- I know that means remaining faithful to my commitment as a Marist priest. It means living my life according to our Rule -- prayerfully, lovingly, and always trying to 'think, to feel, to judge and to act as Mary in all things.'

(A Sculpture of Fr. Jean Claude Colin outside the bulding I'm staying in -- it looks old. So I guess it is.)

I'll be praying for those of you who will be on retreat at Santa Margarita Lake this weekend. I know the St. Joseph House members have been working hard on the retreat for some time. Enjoy it! I wish I could be there with you (but y'all know I'll enjoy not sleeping outside on the ground!!!!!!).

I'll close with a picture of me -- eating lunch in Fourviere. Notice it's not salad. While the food is excellent as one might expect for French cuisine, I miss my salads for lunch.

Sharing Fourviere Moments

2009-04-30T04:44:00.000-07:00

After each pilgrimage, we take some time sharing what we were touched by. Hands down -- the hospitality of the French community at St. Foy was spoken of almost as much as our Mass at the chapel at Fourviere. Of course, we didn't say Mass in the big Basilica (pictured yesterday) -- that wasn't even there during Colin's time. We said Mass in the smaller chapel next to it. This was the place of our foundation.

The focal point of the Chapel is a statue of the Black Madonna. Statues and paintings of the "black Madonna" has been around since before the Middle Ages. (If interested, look up Song of Songs 1:5 to get a sense of why. Yes, newmanites, you have to do some work for this blog!)

It was interesting to hear how each Marist was impressed by the same things. I guess we're more alike than we think.

The other big feat of the day was doing laundry. Things are a little slower than we're used and there is no dryer. UGH! I've got wet clothes hanging all over my room because the lines in the laundry room are full -- I'll not give a picture of that.

I'll be praying for all of you who will be on the camping retreat this weekend. May the Holy SPirit be present to you and all and especially the St. Joseph House as they lead it.

A couple of pictures of our walk through Fourviere / Lyons to close with.

Fourviere Day (Lyons)

2009-04-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

The highlight of today was our Mass at Our Lady of Fourviere. It was Joel’s day to celebrate and he used the modern song (The Places I Remember) as a jumping off point to speak of the memories we have as members of the society – historical memories and the personal memories we have as individuals. He did a nice job. The memories of the Chapel rang out – Colin and the original signers of the Pledge – Colin, Chanel and Bourdin as they prepared for the visit to Rome – Chanel and the other first missionaries as they prepared to go to Oceania. Fourviere is clearly one of our foundation places.

The other highlight of the day was the welcome we received at St. Foy. This Marist house, which was built during Colin’s time, is BIG and is a testament to the history of the society. The French Marists who spent time with us (Frs. Maurice, Philippe, and Fr. Bush / 91 years old and who reminded me of Paddy Coyle) were funny and full of life. It was good to see and experience. (This is picture of the outside of the Chapel of St. Foy.)

The day was long, but good. I have Mass tomorrow for the group, so I’ll close off to prepare some thoughts. I’ll leave you with a picture of most of the group – it’s how we ended St/ Peter Chanel Day on the 28th of April.

Feast Day of St. Pierre Chanel

2009-04-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Peter Chanel Day! Today we marked the feast day of the first martyr of Oceania. Peter Chanel was a Marist priest and celebrated Mass at Notre Dame de Fourviere as they set off for the missions of Oceania.

Fr Chanel left France -- his home, his friends, all that he knew -- in December of 1836 with several other Marists of the newly approved Society of Mary. Their desire was to bring the Gospel to the people of Oceania by living among them in the spirit of Mary. Fr. Chanel and Brother Nizier ended up on the Island of Futuna. Chanel spent his life for the Gospel because on 28 April 1841 he was killed. Fr. Chanel's ministry wasn't what we would call successful. While on the island there were very few converts to the faith. However, a short time after his martrydom practically the whole island was Baptized. In death comes life!

Marists look up to Peter Chanel as a brother to emulate. He reminds us that we don't always see the success of our work, yet, God works success through all our efforts.

Tomorrow's visit to Fourviere will echo with the footsteps of Chanel, Colin, Champagnat, and the others who dedicated themselves to founding the Society of Mary.

The Marist Charism

2009-04-27T11:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday! I’m sure Fr. John and Linda are glad that the Fundraiser is over. It’s a lot of work, but mostly for Linda. Thanks, Linda, for your care and devotion.

Also thanks to Chris McJimsey (our behind the scenes man – very Marist). Of course, thanks to all you students for your participation. I prayed for you all.

The next few days we’ll be preparing for our visit to Lyons and Notre Dame de Fourviere, which is for Marists one of the three significant foundation experiences. Today we spent time sharing about the spirit of the Society of Mary. The words I would attach to this spirit are:

simple – quiet – gentle strength – open – feminine – mercy

These qualities, which were borne out of Colin’s time (as expressed, I believe, in ‘hidden and unknown’), are what the modern world needs as well. The ostentatious-ness (I know it's not really a word, but...) of our world needs a dose of true simplicity and humility.

Unfortunately, I probably don’t offer this spirit to you guys at Newman in a deliberate fashion. Perhaps I’m too cautious and feel that unless you ask for our Marist spirit I shouldn’t push it on you. But if I truly believe that this charism, which is so clearly expressed in Mary’s life, was given by God to Colin and the Society of Mary, how can I (we) not give this gift deliberately to those I minister to and with. This is something for me to ponder before I return to SLO Newman.

I’ll leave you with a picture (not great quality, but....) of our Solemn Vespers on Sunday evening. At least, this is what our director called it. The others Marists said it was a 'spirits' filled vespers! Please note guys that I’m not in the picture – I wasn’t there.

Sundays / 'Prayer Days' / Sabbath Rest

2009-04-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

I prayed hard yesterday for the Fundraiser! I hope all went well and that those of you who were free to help at Madonna Inn had a good time. Thanks! How much did the Newman Staff dinner go for this year?

Meanwhile over here in La Neyliere there are no group sessions planned on Sundays. It's a day dedicated to prayer, rest, and reading. The 'rest' part is really unnecessary, since we're not really working that hard on the other days of the week.

Today we had Mass in 'Le Grande Chapelle,' which is the Church built shortly after Fr. Colin died. Believe me, it doesn't have the feel of a Chapelle. It feels like a little Church. The stain glass windows, depicting scenes from Jesus' life, are incredible, and the chapel is Gothic in style. A group of children who were preparing for First Communion celebrated Mass with us and the locals this morning. Lots of energy was present.

There is a beautiful statue of Mary holding Jesus in the Chapelle. I was able to capture it the other day -- just at the right moment of light. The colors that enveloped Mary reminded me of the diversity of our Church, of how Mary reflects the light of Christ in her own life, and of how we are called to do the same as Catholics and Marists. As I was reflecting on this picture this morning, I remembered an important quote for us members of the Society of Mary. I'll leave you with the quote and the picture as you mark your Sunday, which is not very old yet on your side of the Ocean. Perhaps some of you Newmanites have already heard this call in your heart -- and are searching for the courage to bring it to fruition.

"Let them always bear in mind that they belong by a gracious choice to the family of the blessed Mary, Mother of God, from whose name they are called Marists, and whom they have chosen from the beginning as their model and their first and perpetual superior. If therefore they are true sons of this dear Mother, let them try constantly to breathe her spirit of humility, self-denial, intimate union with God, and the most ardent love of neighbor." (Jean Claude Colin)

Lots of Places Today!

2009-04-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to write long today. It was a good day, but long. The brief version is:

We traveled to Fr. Colin's birth place -- Les Barbery. The place where his house stood is marked by a cross. I can tell you, his commitment to remain faithful to Mass was huge. Getting to the Church in St Bonnet Le Troncy from Les Barbery without a car, and I presume without a horse, was a real commitment. There's NOTHING around.

St. Bonnet Le Troncy was the next stop. This is where Colin ended up living with his Uncle Sebastian after his parents died (his siblings where taken in by Sebastian as well. This house is not the Jean Claude Colin Museum. Fr. Ron celebrated Mass for us at the Church.

After a delightful lunch in the museum we had coffee (I had tea) with a local family who showed us incredible hospitality. Jean Pierre, Michelle, and Jean Pierre's brother, Bernard were our hosts. We did our best to share through Fr. Bernd who did the translating.

Second to last stop was Coutouvre where Jeanne Marie Chavoin (founder of the Marist Sisters) was born and lived. Her house had a small room in the cellar where they hid a priest who refused to sign the constitutional oath required during the Revolution. Like Colin's family they risked a great deal.

Finally, we made a quick stop at St. Joddard which was the minor seminary Colin and St. Marcellin Champagnat attended. It is now the house of the Grey Friars a new and growing semi contemplative group with apostolate.

I think the highlight of the day was the gracious hospitality we experienced by the family at St. Bonnet Le Troncy. We spent an hour together -- I felt perfectly at home even though I do not understand French.

The views were fantastic. The French countryside magnificent! St. Bonnet Le Troncy is in the Beaujolais Region, but we didn't buy any wine. Here's Fr. Joel and the view of the area behind him.

When we got back to La Neyliere everyone was ready for dinner and glass of wine or two.

Quiet Day

2009-04-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Today was a fairly quiet day. It was nice! We were preparing for a pilgrimage tomorrow to Jean Claude Colin's birthday place -- Les Barbery. We'll also visit St. Bonnet Le Troncy which is where Colin grew up after his parents died when he was 4 years old. (Try to pronounce the name of that French town, Rocky!)

We spent some time this morning sharing insights into Jean Claude. I think he was definitely a product of his time. His parents were not exactly enamored with the French Revolution, and they found the courage to help local clergy who would not sign the constitutional oath. So, in some sense, his most formative years were stamped by experiencing courageous parents. Yet, at the same time, his father was eventually forced to hide out in the forest to avoid the authorities.

So, Jean Claude's most formative years were marked also by fear. My guess is this is where -- 'hidden and unknown' as a Marist charism was born. Working quietly, behind the scenes, and very much among the people is, as you guys know (I hope) something that we Marists truly aspire to.

Tomorrow's pilgrimage will bookend his life. We'll begin from La Neyliere which is where Jean Claude spent his later years. As I said in an earlier post, this is where he wrote our RULE. His room is still preserved as it was when he died. It's a wonderful place to see and be. I spent some time tonight sitting on the floor in his room praying for vocations. So, my friends some of you will have to step up to the plate! For the men -- there's the Fathers and Brothers, and the Marist Brothers. For the women -- there's the Marist Sisters and Marist Missionary Sisters.

I'll leave you with that thought and move on to some pictures.

I'm standing by a cabinet in Colin's sitting room. You can see his picture in the background. I'm fairly certain it wasn't there when he was alive.

This picture is for Fr. Ron's friends in West Virginia. He's wearing Fr. Colin's hat, but I think he was really looking around for a baseball cap. He had no luck.

Here I'm standing next to Fr. Colin's desk. I'm pointing to a map of the Islands of Oceania. Apparently, Colin always had this map before him -- to remember his brother missionaries. No doubt, he was filled with pride for what they were doing, but also felt a weighty responsibility for their well being.

Finally, a picture of Fr. Bruce sitting next to Fr. Colin's bed. He actually died in this bed (Fr. Colin -- not Fr. Bruce).

The Marist Renewal Group

2009-04-23T12:07:00.001-07:00

It might be good to give you a little flavor of whose here. It's a pretty international group -- like the full Society of Mary -- Marists. There are nine of us here all together. Here are the guys, where their from and the ministry they do.

Yours truly - enough said!
Fr. Bruce -- USA / Bruce is the Director of Formation for USA.
Fr. Ron -- USA / Ron works in a little parish in Buckhannan, West Virginia.
Fr Kevin Stewart / New Zealand / Kevin is working in Australia Directing the Marist Mission Center.
Fr. John -- Brisbane, Australia / John is working in Bolivia with Base Christian Communities.
Fr. Joe -- Netherlands / Joe is working in Guadalcanal at a parish (Solomon Islands)
Fr. Guiliano -- Italy / Guiliano is working in a parish in Lima, Peru.
Br. Leonard -- Fiji / Leonard is working in Tutu at the Novitiate
Fr. Joel -- Phillipines / Joel is working in Campus Ministry in Mindano

That's the group. The picture below is us on the steps of Notre Dame de Le Puy. There were lots of steps! The spiritual connection of brotherhood as Marists is very present.

You don't have to say it. I look cold! It was still morning and little brisk.

Le Puy Pilgrimage

2009-04-22T11:37:00.000-07:00

Today began and ended with a trip to Le Puy, where Jean-Claude Courveille (one of the original group members who did not become a member of the Society of Mary) experienced a healing of sight, and heard with his ‘inner ear’ Mary’s desire to begin a congregation dedicated to her – as her Son had one dedicated to him.

The Basilica of Le Puy has its origins in 2 healing miracles, and Mary’s desire that a Church be built on this sight. The stone rock (Dolman) on which a woman was cured of her fatal fever sits within the Church itself. There has been a Church on this sight from the 4th Century onward.

It was wonderful being in this foundational site and saying Mass in an upper balcony. The Church is filled with Arabic and oriental influences. It is also believed that the Salve Regina (written by Bishop Adhemer) is connected to this Church because Bishop Adhemer preached the first crusade here.

But Le Puy is also home to the immense statue of Our Lady of France, and to St. Michael the Archangel on the Rock. You’ll know immediately in the pictures which is which. The steps up where no problem for a five and a half mile runner!

We also had a great picnic lunch on the property of the priest’s house for the Basilica. He came out with 2 bottles of red wine Bordeaux. It was far better than what we brought. So, you can guess what we drank.

Nourishment & Sustenance

2009-04-21T12:04:00.000-07:00

I know my SLO Newman friends are worried about me. I’m sure the burning question on your minds is: Is Fr. Kevin getting enough salad to eat? Well, no worries. There’s WINE at lunch and dinner. We spend at least an hour for each of the two bigger meals. They serve each course separately. So we’re not just eating. We’re dining! The retreat house is very full right now, so the Marist Renewal Program wanders for meals. We move from room to room to accommodate the many groups who are here for retreats and conferences.

No worries about wine at both meals, however. The alcoholic content of the wine is 11% so it’s less than what we’re used to in the US. But the bad news is………no vodka and tonics. UGH! I guess I’ll survive.

Tomorrow we head to Le Puy, which is a city with an enormous shrine (Nore Dame de Le Puy) and a special place of pilgrimage for Catholics.

It’s also where one, of the original group (Jean Claude Courveille), experienced a miraculous healing of his sight. He was one of the original group. He, Jean Claude Colin, and several others, as seminarians, committed themselves to beginning the Society of Mary. We all know they did a pretty good job because Marists are all over the world – including of all places San Luis Obispo. But in order to keep this project going, we'll need some of you guys at SLO Newman to step up to the plate (you knew it was coming!).

Well enough for now. Early to bed as tomorrow promises to be a big day with lots of walking and climbing. By the way, Fr. Bruce says, HI!

The Rest of Monday (written post run)

2009-04-20T12:13:00.000-07:00

These first two days are set up for a kind of orientation – not exactly WOW week, but orientation nonetheless. Things like finding where meeting rooms are, how to do laundry, and how to arrange who would lead prayers and mass on what days are all part of the orientation.

But we also took a tour of the property and it’s BIG. La Neyliere contains several large buildings, a small Oratory, and a large Gothic Chapel. It was an old estate owned by 3 Irish brothers, named O’Neill – hence the name of the place “the Neil’s place” which has come to be La Neyliere. Fr. Colin bought it early on in our history and it has become a significant part of our heritage.

My room is on the second floor of an old converted barn. In the old days the animals lived below and the brothers lived above the barn. It’s all redone on the inside but it has lots of character.

The view from my room is very pastoral and is beautiful. It's not hard to take and it makes for easy relaxation

This sacred place is where our RULE was written by Jean Claude Colin (finished in 1872) and it’s where he died and was buried. Our tour today showed us all that. His room is relatively untouched. I’ve not spent any time there alone in prayer yet, but it seemed to have a holy feel when we were all together.

Hopefully, you all had a good Open House at Cal Poly. I expect the music ministry rocked the house? I hope so.

Finally Here

2009-04-20T05:09:00.000-07:00

Hey, SLO Newman!

I'm here at La Neyliere sitting in the Fr. Colin museum (I needed to find an Ethernet cable). Fr. Colin provided one.

The Paris airport is not as user friendly as one would hope. But I did make my connection (by the skin of my teeth), and Fr. Bernd, our leader, was there to greet me at the Lyons airport. So, THANKS FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS. Bernd and I then drove the hour and fifteen minutes to La Neyliere which is in the Lyonese Mountains. We sit at 1000 feet above sea level.

I also had a great several hours with Seth on Saturday. He took me to lunch -- he even paid. Thanks again, Seth. His 'crib' is cool!

Well that's it for now. I'm headed out for a run before it rains. I've not run for a week. So this one will be a little rough!

Chauffered by Seth

2009-04-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

In just three days Seth (thanks, Seth) will pick me up at the Marist House, and after catching up on things will drop me off at Dulles International for the journey to LaNeyliere. I don't look forward to the traveling but anticipate a good period of renewal of my Marist heritage.

By the way, I've been with the Society of Mary since I was 13 years old. In September of 1971 I entered the Marist minor seminary (Marist Prep). Yes, I know! I was young. But people did that in those days. They were more than good years for me and I met a lot of fantastic men who influenced me greatly.

I officially became a member of the Society of Mary in 1981 when I took the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience. The journey has been wonderful and along the way I've shared life with so many incredible people -- my Marist brothers, my friends, and you guys at the Newman Center in SLO. With traveling companions like you, how could things be any better.

Keep me in your prayers this Saturday as I begin this 'adventure.'

Getting More Ready

2009-04-08T14:36:00.001-07:00

Well, I've got as much done before packing as I can. Euro are purchased. Europe converter is at the ready. In between now and the flight to France is a 3 day meeting in DC. I will then head to Dulles Airport, chauffeured by Seth Silva. It will be good to see him.

France is the first and more extensive part of the renewal because it is where the Society of Mary -- Marists were founded. As you follow this journey, hopefully, you'll come to know more about the congregation that I was called to and have lived in these past 28 years (longer if you include college and high school). We are a small group, but my ancestors have done great things.

Some background:

Historically, our foundings are 'mired' in the end of the French Revolution (late 1700's and early 1800's), and the turmoil of a society rapidly changing.

Jean Claude Colin and his companions were formed by the political upheaval of seeing a somewhat triumphal and politically connected church -- tamped down.

As the Church emerged from this period, the need to catechize was great but of the course this had to be done in a new quieter way.

This new way was what Colin and others felt drawn to by the Blessed Mother. They felt strongly that she called them to begin the Society -- and they often spoke of the work of Mary, which was to be the support of the Church.

Hopefully, you guys at the Newman Center / SLO have felt a bit of that quite unassuming spirit in Fr. John and I. I know that we're not always quiet in terms of volume (especially Fr. John)! But we've tried to live the Gospel and to reflect Mary's spirit in what we do.

You can be the judge of how successful we've reflected Mary's gentle and quiet spirit in living and preaching Christ.

Getting Ready

2009-03-10T10:43:00.000-07:00

In just about a month I will head out for a Marist Renewal Program which will give me the chance to spend some time thinking about our Marist roots and spirit. Doing this kind of reflection at the sites where the Society of Mary - Marists - were founded will be an added bonus.

Home base for the first 4 weeks will be a Marist House in La Neyliere, France. It's where our founder (Jean Claude Colin) is buried. While I've never been to La Neyliere, I'm told the above picture is a view from the property. Hopefully, there will be places to run.

The last 2 weeks will be spent at our General House in Rome, Italy. Never a bad place to visit!

This program will also offer me the chance to step away from the SLO Newman ministry and do a little extra praying, and sharing with my Marist brothers from around the world. I'll miss you guys at the Center during the spring quarter, but I know you'll keep me in your prayers.