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Several confreres have been inquiring about the men in the St. Catherine’s Infirmary in Philadelphia, asking which Vincentians are there and how they are doing. Fr. John Maher, CM, the superior of St. Vincent’s Seminary, was kind enough to write up the following report:
St. Catherine’s Infirmary offers one an experience of quiet, but unmistakenly warm welcome. As one enters the corridor into St. Catherine’s, a NY Mets sign adorns Fr. Mike Shea’s, CM, door to welcome any guest. When not in his room, Fr. Mike is either making bread in “Kate’s Kitchen,” or generously celebrating Mass to relieve a weary pastor. Across from Fr. Mike, Fr. John Gouldrick, CM, sits quietly in his room. He pours over family photos, smiles, and works diligently on his homilies for St. Catherine’s.
Next to Fr. Shea is Fr. Jim Dorr’s, CM, room. He is rarely there, but “out and about” in the rec room talking it up with nurses or watching SJU game reruns as a devoted fan. Next to Fr. Jim’s room one finds Fr. Bill O’Brien, CM, weakened by aging and brittle bones, but still flashing a grin, making a brief quip, and thanking the visitor for coming. Across from Fr. Bill’s room, Fr. John Freund, CM, sits, bowed slightly by age and illness, but engaged in the world around him. Slowly and steadily, he makes his way past the nurses’ station, down the long hallway into the newly renovated sun porch where, with other confreres, he can relax, converse, or just enjoy the beautiful view.
Upon leaving the sun porch, one is pleased to see Fr. Al Pehrsson, CM. His room is filled with sketches and cartoons entertaining folks the world over. As of his recent 97th birthday, Fr. Al is our eldest confrere. Across from Fr. Al’s room is Fr. Dan Kramer, CM, who is only a few months behind Fr. Al, when he, too, will be 97 years of age. Fr. Dan reads quietly, carefully using his magnificent magnifying glass, not unlike the one used by Sherlock Holmes. Fr. Dan always has a kind word for everyone.
Moving back down the hall, one hears the “sound of sports,” and the open door reveals Fr. Jack Kane, CM, number one Philly sports fan. He multitasks: watching a game, snacking, reading a book, and calling his devoted niece Charlene. Down the hall is the newest St. Catherine’s resident: Bro. William Stover, CM, a man at home with himself, filled with true Gospel joy. His smile and laugh are infectious. Finally, one comes upon Fr. Frank Sacks, CM, the chaplain for St. Catherine’s. He is the confrere who holds this crew together, by his example of kindness, solicitude, prayerfulness, and good example.
Each of these men lived a life of ministry and service in the Congregation of the Mission. But even now, by their prayerfulness, good example, and fidelity, they continue to teach and inspire us all.
World Day for Consecrated Life
Sunday, February 1, is the World Day for Consecrated Life and a good opportunity to consider vocations. In fact, Sunday’s Gospel on the Beatitudes is also the Gospel used on the Feast of St. Vincent de Paul and captures his spirit. When considering or recommending vocations, please always remember to include the vocation to the life of a Brother in the community.
The Panama Mission
Please pray for the success of the Mission in Panama, which will began today in Puerto Armuelles (Barú) in the province of Chiriquí. They are expecting over 100 lay missioners to participate in the mission, as well as all of our seminarians.
Hispanic Discernment Retreat
This year’s Hispanic Discernment Retreat will be held at the Miraculous Medal House on the weekend of February 6 through 8. Click here for a flyer with the information that you can share with young men you would like to invite. They can register by clicking here.
New posts of the Nuntia Express
Click here to read a recent post from the Nuntia Express.
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