2
Special
The Catholic News & Herald
to
February 22,
2002
TRIBUTE
— Funeral Mass for The Most Reverend Michael Begley
Homily
Most Reverend Archbishop and
my
with the dedication of the
Good
Shepherd.
have you do, not under constraint and not
was always amazing how people in the parishes of the diocese related to him and respected him. His appointment by Pope Paul VI was an excellent one, and to me, a surprising one considering his age at the time. How the Holy Spirit works! He was a bridge who brought unity to his priests and much happiness to his new diocese and its people. It was a new
for shameful profit either, but generously."
beginning for a
inspired words apply so very well to Michael Joseph Begley, first bishop of Charlotte and priest of the diocese of Raleigh for almost 38 years. Now as we gather to express our farewell, we honor a good man, a holy priest, and a most generous bishop. We admire him for his more than 67 years of priesthood. I want to
with respect for the diocese of Raleigh and
brother priests, deacons, sisters, members of the laity, and family of Bishop Begley, Bishops,
In today's second reading from Peter's first letter,
we read: "God's flock is in
your midst. Give
Watch over
a shepherd's care.
it
God would
willingly as
it
St.
Those
give a
insight into the
little
man whom
so
many
of us admired and loved. It will include a little humor, for Bishop Begley
humor
enjoyed himself and used
hance his
to en-
after the
ment of the Diocese of Charlotte and
his
selection as the first bishop, he called
me.
week
Earlier in the
Our Lady of Grace ing to offer
I
in
had twice called Greensboro seek-
my congratulations. On
occasions he
was out of the
could not contact him.
rectory,
With
both
and
his call,
I
we
exchanged pleasantries, and then he mentioned that he wanted me to be his chancellor. When I mentioned that I wanted to build a church in Hendersonville, his answer was direct: "The church will be built but not by you! I want you in Charlotte!" Then I was told to begin the process of setting up the diocese in conjunction with the chancellor of Raleigh, Monsignor Louis Morton. Thus began almost eight years for me to work in close collaboration with a priest
whom
I
deeply admired and respected.
Regardless of his assignments
—
su-
perintendent of the Catholic orphanage, pastor of several parishes in the diocese of
and cared
for his flock
W
N E
S
& H E R A L D
11
Number
•
Most Reverend William G. Curlin S. Keane Associate Editor: Kevin E. Murray Staff Writer: Alesha M. Price Advertising Representative: Cindi Feerick
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relaxed and happy home. He, Father Jo-
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Mary
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and
couple of years
I
later,
Aquinas
Box 37267,
downstairs to his secretary, Aloha Torrents (at that time, Linhares) for the work. Aloha had been his part-time secretary in Charlotte while he
was
director
of Raleigh Catholic Social Services. She remained throughout his tenure and still works in our chancery.
my
During
years as chancellor,
I
along with the other priests of Raleigh, underwent. After all, in 1924 there were only 6,500 Catholics in the entire state; in 1945, there were only 13,000. do not have the figures for 1934, but the numbers given are some indication. The piohe,
neers had great
but their
difficulties,
work
rectory.
down
but they kept coming up!
was soon
riddle
solved! Sister
had
His residence was not bought until late January, and it took several months to restore the house. St. Patrick's rectory.
In the meantime, the
new
diocese of
Charlotte worked out of two rooms in the rectory.
The house
that
was
to be-
come our in late
first chancery was also bought January and had to be remodeled.
No complaints, just the necessary adjustment
that
was needed.
dictate correspondence,
he needed to he would come
If
Begley would always laugh. Neither Little Mike nor I ever made a cursillo but there was never any pressure to make us do so.
He
much enjoyed
so
to the priesthood.
men
ordaining
remember,
I
especially,
—
his joy!
We
was a close family, a happy one. Monsignor Michael O'Keefe joined us in 1975 for a year or so. How many times would
—
for cursillistas
— and Bishop
appointment of four priests as Reverend Monsignori in 1976. He never knew that, through a mistake, I had known of the appointments hours before he announced them! I did not have the heart to dampen
work. His early priest-
at his
hood had tempered him for he mentioned on several occasions the difficulties that
administer the sacrament of confimation
residence was filled with warmth and friendship. On some occasions, the laugh would be on him and he joined us in laughing at himself. Those of you who knew him knew that he was not overly concerned about externals. This incident shows how he reacted to a humorous situation. He always attended the yearly bishops' meeting in Washington. One year he had just returned and was talking with Sister Aquinas and Father Tobin in the kitchen. I arrived home from the chancery and immediately noticed him standing by the refrigerator with trousers that were very short, several inches above his ankles. I mentioned this to him and he responded that he had noticed this in Washington. He would pull his
name
Scouts"
many hours
throughout the bishop's stay as ordinary and administrator of the diocese. With Sister Aquinas, the house changed as we were sp»iled by her cooking and care. It
The
a
two other occasions of happiness and joy for him the appointment of the then Father Joseph Howze, pastor of St. Lawrence Church in Asheville, as auxiliary bishop of Jackson, Miss., and the
and
Bishop Begley speak about his love for desserts saying that he ate only so that he could have dessert!
Mike had
Little
— "Spanish Boy
never heard a word of complaint from him, just the adjustments that were necessary for the living out his appointment as shepherd of the diocese. What a joy it was to work with him and to see him spend so
Makin, a Franciscan sister from Tiffin, Ohio, came as our housekeeper and remained
at Charlotte
address corrections to The Catholic
News &
A
monk
bishop of Charlotte was his bedroom in
44 times a year, weekly except for Christmas week and Easter week and every two weeks during June, July and August for $1 5 per year for enrollees in parishes of the Roman Catholic Diocese of St.,
began
continues today reflecting his
still
—
Graphic Designer: Tim Faragher
1123 South Church
served for
spirit that
sent two identical suits to the dry cleaner with the cleaners placing the wrong trousers with his coat. The bishop ended up wearing Monsignor O'Keefe's trousers and O'Keefe was several inches shorter! We had a good laugh as he did too; a man at peace could laugh at himself and enjoy it! Bishop Begley was a simple and humble man, and these words are spoken in the best sense. His first office as
23
Joann
Secretary: Sherill
The
spirit and that of his two successors, Archbishop Donoghue and Bishop Curlin. "Watch over God's flock willingly as God would have you do." As I look back his residence was a
The
Publisher: Editor:
then
diocese but always
whom he had
almost 38 years.
trousers
2002
February 22,
Volume
—
he loved and served them
Raleigh, bishop of Charlotte
new
the three bishops
Sister
life.
December 1971, just three days announcement of the establish-
In
It
foundation that
sacrifices laid the
both dioceses
He
build on.
still
traveled the diocese each year to
in the different parishes.
On
one occasion,
we had
the eve of the Ascension,
dinner
with the parish council members in the
We
arrived back in Charlotte
I became very sick during the night; the next day he followed with both of us ending up in Mercy Hos-
about
that night.
1 1
Jokingly, the pastor attempted to
pital.
poison us
— we both had
severe cases of
food poisoning, necessitating hospitaliza-
seven days for him and six days for
tion,
me. Don't eat Polish sausage and drink well water!
He was
really a
man
strength from his divine
Mass,
his rosary
in a rectory
of prayer.
With
office, his daily
and devotion to the
In
initiated
many programs
for this purpose.
Early on, he began pastoral planning for the diocese looking to involve the laity
more
as also pointing to the future.
He
formed all of the councils in the diocese and worked with the many groups giv-
was needed. There was moderate growth in those days, and the aim was to open a new ing them
the time that
all
parish each year. In addition, several parishes built additional buildings to their needs.
I
found time for
As
never understood all
meet
how he
that he did.
a priest of the diocese of Raleigh,
he was tapped by Bishop Vincent Waters to head the Cursillo movement in the diocese. With gusto he embraced this appointment, and that movement continues to this day in both dioceses. When enough laity had been trained, he took a different role he became a member of the kitchen crew, leaving the presentations to the trained laity. His closeness to the cursillistas continued during his years. Bishop Waters gave names to him and Monsignor O'Keefe years before the diocese of Charlotte was established Big Mike and Little Mike. Those names stuck with them for years. Little Mike was never one to mince his words, yet they were very close friends. Big Mike had become Little Mike's mentor.
—
—
1984, Bishop Begley
when
Archbishop Donoghue was ordained as the second bishop of Charlotte. Over the next 17 years, he lived in Charlotte and Maryfield Nursing Home in High Point. He learned to love Maryfield as he realized that the move had been the proper one for him. He received good care from all and do I dare say that he was spoiled by his caretakers! After a while, he began to tell me that the move had been the right one, and he was very happy there. For the past few years, he had a difficult time as he was unable to walk. And then came serious sickness which necessitated hospital stays. In the hospital, on one visit there, with his door closed and being bathed by two aides, I could hear him clearly almost ordering the aides to do certain things. I heard him say, "But remember, I am a bishop!" The soul of this good man was at peace although his body was suffering much.
Blessed Sacrament, he worked hard and
long hours. He was focused on his work but always as the Shepherd of the diocese. He wanted the diocese to go forward and
December
retired as bishop of Charlotte
ing
As I look back, member of that
was a joy for me
I
am
to have been a
treasure the years of
home
the only surviv-
original household. It
work
member.
in the
I
chan-
and the close associaand the others. As we bid a farewell to him, there is joy and happiness that he fought the good fight and won the battle. A good priest, a cery, the
life
tion with Bishop Begley
good bishop,
a
good
friend has left this
— and many have been
life
enriched by his
How
friendship and company.
very
his years contributing so
he spent
much
to
up of the kingdom of God on earth by his priesthood and episcopacy. He left his mark on the diocese of Charlotte and will never be forgotten. His the building
rightful place in the history of this diocese
more than assured. May he now be enjoying the happiness and fulftllment that he worked so hard for here on earth. is
One
last
comment. As
I
visited
him
he was heavily sedated and in a deep sleep. I had visited just two days before, but during my Friday Mass I last Friday,
was so serious might not see him again. Thus,
realized that his condition
that
I
back to Maryfield
I
went.
I
recited the
prayers for the dying and just spent very quiet time rubbing and holding his hand.
May he always be close to God whom he loved and served so faithfully in this
life.
today
My
are:
last
words
last
Friday and
"Good-bye, Parmer!"
Monsignor Joseph February 15, 2002
S.
Showfety
February 22,
2002
Special to The Catholic
MOST
WILLIAM
G.
By
REV.
—
CURLIN
CHARLOTTE Bishop Michael J. Begley, a bridge between the dioceses of Charlotte and Raleigh, died Feb. 9 in
virtues.
When he began his ministry as a young, newly ordained priest in 1934, Bishop Begley faced many challenges in a state where Catholics were few in number. He knew that there is no short cut to holiness or success in priestly minis-
both require a lifetime of loving God in the Bishop Begley spent
service of one's neighbors. his life
doing this! chosen
When
in
draw upon years of rich experience as a hard working parish priest, as a caring and devoted champion of the poor and victims of injustice, and as the director of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Raleigh. He used his many talents and priestly zeal in establishing parishes, schools and ministries of service throughout Western North Carolina. He will long be remembered for his able to
dedication to Catholic education.
He opened
heart and the heart of our diocese in the children and families of
Leaders
in the
many
welcome
his
to
nations and
ecumenical community
honored him as a "brother in Christ." He was in truth "The Father of the Diocese of Charlotte." I recall with special sentiment my first meeting with Bishop Begley on the eve of the public announcement of my appointment as the third bishop of Charlotte. He recognized my concern in facing the responsibilities that lay before me. "Don't worry, Bishop. I'll be here to help you." His kindness and encouragement never wavered. They were special gifts from God. During the final days of his life, Bishop Begley spoke of his life as "a journey to heaven." He asked for prayers to complete his journey. His journey is now ended. Let us pray that wherever there is nobility of character, wherever there is a gentleness of spirit, wherever there are those things that make for goodness and light, there may Bishop Begley find his home with God.
He was
Point.
the
first
92.
bishop of Charlotte, and bishop
emeritus of the western North Carolina diocese. In Raleigh,
he was a longtime
priest, filling
many
roles: pastor,
super-
intendent of the Nazareth Orphanage in Raleigh, and director of the statewide
Family Life Bureau and Catholic
Social Services.
'The Diocese of Charlotte was truly blessed with this good and holy man of God," said Bishop William G. Curlin. "All who knew him can testify to his deep love for Christ and his zealous dedication to his priestly ministry. Humility and simplicity of life were among his cardinal virtues."
Among the Mass
funeral
in
bishops
who
celebrated Bishop Begley's
Charlotte Feb. 15 was Raleigh Bishop
Gossman. "He was a man of God who was who didn't get caught up in the intricaof things," he said. "In the best terms, he was a
F. Joseph
down cies
1971 by His Holiness, Pope Paul VI, to serve as the first bishop of the newly created Diocese of Charlotte, Bishop Begley was
cultures.
High
He was
Bishop Begley was privileged to know Bishop Begley
only during the "twilight years" of his life. Yet, during those few years, I found Bishop Begley to be among the kindest people I have ever known. The Diocese of Charlotte was truly blessed with this good and holy man of God. Charity, humility and simplicity of life were among his cardinal
try;
JOANN S. KEANE JOHN STRANGE
and
Bishop of Charlotte
I
3
Founding Bishop Michael J. Begley laid to rest
In Tribute The
News & Herald
to earth,
simple
man
of the Gospel."
Appointed by Pope Paul VI as the first bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte in 1971, Bishop Begley was ordained bishop of the 46-county diocese on Jan. 12, 1 972. He served the diocese until his retirement on May 29,
1984.
During
his tenure as bishop, he was a leader in the ecumenical movement in North Carolina and his efforts earned praise from leaders of many denominations.
"What a warm and caring person he was, and community affairs," said retired Methodist
active in
Bishop L. Bevel Jones. "He was respected and admired by all denominations. All of my predecessors loved and respected him tremendously." The spiritual leader of the Charlotte diocese, then considered missionary territory, Bishop Begley quickly earned a widespread reputation as a kind-hearted champion of the poor, a zealous preacher of the Scriptures, an enthusiastic bridge-builder in the ecumenical Community, and a humble administrator who counted on the blessings and contributions of many. Among his legacies to the Diocese of Charlotte was his openness in allowing the diocese to grow in many
However, foremost
—
for eight years.
John
now
former resident of the orphanage, and living in Garner, credits the bishop
Fields, a
retired
with his college education. Fields said that he was one of three in the
orphanage's 1953 graduating class; then-Father Begley gave the commencement speech. Fields recalls that he spoke with the priest briefly after the graduation, and Father Begley told Fields something he would never forget. "He said, 'I bet you do not finish your education,'" Fields said.
different directions.
cerns
Wrightsville Beach, Immaculate Conception in Carolina Beach, and St. Leo in Winston-Salem. He was founding pastor of St. Ann Church in Charlotte. In 1947 he was named as superintendent of the diocese's Catholic Orphanage, and he stayed there
to the bishop
were
social
especially the condition of the poor.
As
con-
chair-
person of the Commission on Religion in Appalachia, he
For a while, it appeared that the priest had spoken true. Fields was drafted into the Korean War, and served the country for two years. But when he
26 bishops from 13 states in issuing a joint pastoral on the state of the powerless in the mountain region. "This Land Is Home To Me," attracted national attention for its forthright approach to the problems of the people in the economically depressed
was discharged, Fields still remembered the comment, and thought he would prove the priest wrong. He went to Eastern Carolina University and
area.
thanked him for making that statement. "He glad you took it in the way I intended.'
led
letter
"He was
man who
truly put he always acted on his principles," said Elizabeth Thurbee, executive director of the Diocese of Charlotte's Catholic Social just a really special
everyone to
his heart out for
see;
Services.
"With his being the first bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte at a time when Catholics were perhaps still looked at a little strangely by the strong Protestant coalition here, he
was needed
was exactly the kind of person who Church to take its
to allow the Catholic
and to begin to grow positively and have it be perceived in a very positive light by other denominaplace,
tions,"
Thurbee
said.
"Bishop Begley provided great comfort and encouragement to many people across the Diocese of Charlotte throughout the years," said Bishop Curlin. "His leadership and kindness are to be treasured." He was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Raleigh
May
26, 1934.
His priestly career in the Raleigh carried him throughout the state. His first assignment was to the east as assistant pastor at St. Mary in Wilmington. Next he was sent west to St. Edward in High Point, again as assistant pastor.
He
served
as
pastor
at
St.
Therese
in
received a degree in business administration. After his graduation he
and Father Begley spoke.
"I
said,
Tm
I
give him credit for steering
"My
heart and
me
straight," Fields
my
blood are at Nazareth." Fields worked for the North Carolina Department of Transportation for 31 years, retiring in 1988. Bishop Begley was also director of the Family Life Bureau and Catholic Social Services, and was serving the Diocese of Raleigh as pastor of Our Lady of Grace Church in Greensboro when he was named the bishop of the new Diocese of Charlotte in 1971. "When he was named bishop it pleased all the priests of the diocese," said Msgr. Gerald L. Lewis, vicar general of the Diocese of Raleigh. "Universally, it was a said.
happy
choice."
Because the orphanage also served as an assembly
grounds for the Diocese of Raleigh, Msgr. Lewis said, "All the priests of the diocese knew him. He was a mentor to young priests, and he was a distinguished priest of the diocese."
Contact Editor Joann Keane by calling (704) 370-3336
or e-mail jskeane@charhttediocese.org
NC
John Strange is editor of the newspaper of the Diocese of Raleigh.
Catholic, diocesan
4 Special
The Catholic News & Herald
to
February 22,
2002
Remembering Charlotte s
first
shepherd
all who knew him, I mourn today the He was the first b ishop ofCharlotte, from 1972 till 1983, and during that time became the friend of thousands, who feel with me now, the sadness of his passing. When I was named Bishop Begley's successor in Charlotte, it was his hand that ordained me to the office of bishop of the Church, and his friendship that guided me as bishop of Charlotte, a most happy and well-remembered time in my life. For those years, and many afterwards, Bishop Begley was always at hand, to lend me and his brother bishops advice and counsel. More endearing, he remained a constant
"Along with the Catholics of the Diocese of Charlotte, and
death ofour friend and mentor, Bishop Michael J. Begley.
friend, readily dispensing encouragement and support,
with never-failing ease and a charm that all will
We will miss him, but let us thank God for sharing with us this kind and affectionate man
remember.
over the impressive span of 92 years
—
years spent mostly doing what he loved to do: helping people,
serving the church, and praising God."
— Most Reverend John
F.
Bishop Begley with Archbishop Donoghue of Atlanta.
Donoghue
tude; he
I think about what St. Peter must have
He was just a really who truly put his heart outfor everyone
that about Bishop Begley.
diocese.
(W
ith
Bishop Begley) was no pretense, what you saw was what you got I am confident he is with
— Bishop
F.
Joseph Gossman
and always
acted on his principals.
me as
a
new
and he meant
to find
bishop.
it
He was most gracious to everybody.
He was most
His greeting was always,
By that I mean he was veiy approachable, had
time to
listen,
'Hi,
and was very
— Retired Bishop David Thompson
miss him.
— Judge Robert Potter judge of the Western
retired federal
"We knew him as our pastor, and we made a
on the
strong Protestant coalition here, he was exactly t/ie
honored
kindofperson who wdsneeded to allow t/ie Catholic
spiritual person,
it
and
North
and t/iere-
when he went to Rome to
to take its place,
District of
Carolina
oftlie Diocese ofCharlotte at a time wlien Catlwlics were perhaps still looked at a little strangely by the
church
atti-
everyone, no matter
who he or she was. He was always open to whomwas talking to at the time. We will sorely
us all to interact
to begin to
grow
state
We accompanied him report to
of the diocese
He was a
to go.
Pope Paul VI
in 1974,
and we were and deeply
very gentle
and his spirit andpatience were
the hallmarks
— Dr.
be perceived in a very positive
light by other denominations.
St.
ofour trip. and Mrs. Bill Rabil
Leo the Great Church
in
Winston-Salem
— Elizabeth Thurbee executive director of Catholic Social Services
My husband was co-chairman ofthe planning committeefor Bishop Begley's ordination,
Bishop Thompson, the priests, religious and laity of the Diocese ofCharleston in extending
"He was a very prayerful person; a gentle
and I handled some public relations issuesfor him.
and the good people ofthe Charlotte Diocese our condolences and prayerful support on
man who was always so gratefulfor everything no matter how small. AtMaryfield even though
He was our pastorfor 1 1 years at St. Ann, and he was wonderful, a very humble and warm man to whom most everyone responded. He had a tremendousfaith and was as solid as he could be. He was
to Bishop Curlin
the occasion of the death of Bishop Begley.
We know how blessed the Diocese of Charlotte was by the
leadership of its first bishop and the great example he gave to all
by his legendary concern for the poor.
May he now enjoy in eternity the blessings the Lord holds in store for his faithful and devoted servants."
— Bishop Robert
J.
it's
a Catholic nursing home and a Catholic envi-
ronment,
we still have many people who are not
Catholic and itjust didn 't matter to
Baker
Bishop of Charleston
"One ofthe inestimable graces granted me when I was bishop ofSavannah was my association with our beloved Bishop Michael Begley. Through
his
many years
as
founding bishop of Charlotte and
who askedfor a
They often said 'This
is
people's
Diocese of Savannah
outpouring of love and affection from priests, religious and
it
celebrated his 25th
was apparent from the great
laity that this
was a man who was greatly
"One of his most endearing characteristics was his down to earth approach to his ministry and to
his relationship with his people. 'In
God's providence, he was the
bishop-pastor of the Diocese of Charlotte. His legacy
bishops have built and will build.
— Bishop
is
ideal selection to
be the founding
the spiritual foundation on which succeeding
May his soul rest in peace."
still
working, ready to pitch
humankind. His upstairs,
light has
in.
He was afriend to
gone
out,
but
it's
on
and Ifeel that it is shining down now as
he praysfor
us.
—Nancy West St.
Ann Church
"My
Home
in
Charlotte
best association
with him was meeting
with him every Monday nightfor 20years aspart of "Ifounded St. Gabriel'swlien
— Retired Bishop Raymond W. Lessard
already entered into retirement but
what probably touched a lot of and probably improved relation-
Maryfield Nursing
death of a dear friend, this humble giant of a co-worker in the vineyard of the Lord."
He had
'
— Poor Servant of the Mother of God Sister
him May the Good Shepherd welcome this faithful servant into eternal life, and comfort us who remain to mourn the
"One of my best memories of Bishop Begley was on the occasion when he
lives,
a holy man. I think his
a great example, and even after he retired, he was
Lucy Hennessy
his wisdom, his counsel, his wit with those of us who were blessed to know and to work with
anniversary as bishop.
is
blessing.
ships with other denominations.
continuing on into his retirement, he always stood out as a shining example of the good shepherd, filled as he was with a loving concern for the people entrusted to his care, yet always ready and willing to share
him - he was
ready to bless anybody
gentleness
loved.
same with
couple of trips with him.
Diocese of Charleston
"I join
the
With his being thefirst bishop
positively and/iave
pastoral."
way for
a
was
ever he
He
strongly respected the beliefs of other people, but
together positively.
"Bishop Begley had been retired for five years when I got here to Charleston in 1 984.
Partner,'
to see
fore needed
Bishop of Raleigh
gracious to
special man
believed we all worshiped tfie same God,
the Lord."
He is one ofthe all-around best priests I
counted on to speak outfor iliepoor and vulnerable.
looked like and the kind ofperson he had been, I think
"He was a man ofGod who was down to earth, who didn't get caught up in the intricacies ofthings," he said. "In the best terms, he was a simple man of the Gospel. He was well loved and respected in the
mother.
have ever known. (I admired) hisfriendly
When
Archbishop of Atlanta
warm person who always had
"I remember a
a smile and a twinkle in his eye, who could always be
Bishop Begley
wasa monsignor andpastor ofSt. Ann's. We all remember that he was a very pastoral man. He was wonderful with the orphanage people; wonderful as a pastor here. The other day a friend was telling me that she took her childfor a music lesson at the convent at St.
Ann
's.
She had to go in
the St. Vincent de
Paul Society. He was a genuine
person; appearances didn 't bother him.
He was at
home in any situation and was down-to-earth. He was positive andfriendly to everyone and made peoplefeel as ifthey were apart ofhis priesthood.
The memory
that will always stand out in
my mind was when my daughter developed hepa-
New
Mexico.
through the kitchen, and in the kitchen under the
titis
was Monsignor Begleyfixing the plumbing. He was already an eminent man - the kind ofman
Bishop Begley called the archbishop of
New
Mexico
rites.
who wouldfix anything.
He also had a privatefuneral servicefor her and
sink
while attending college in
to find
a priest to administer last
— Father Paul Byron
myfamily. We always appreciated that; men like
Bishop of Savannah
Diocese
that don 't come along very often.
"For us at the Abbey, we were delighted with his appointment as bishop. He was a long time friend
"He was a Catholic Daughters man
J.
Kevin Boland
of Raleigh priest
— Frank Gulli of the monastic community as a Raleigh priest He was frequently here for retreats, and was friends with
many of the monks.
His genuine humility, pastoral sensitivity and ecumenical openness made him an
ideal first bishop for Charlotte and
nulius
gave a firm foundation to the new diocese. For us, in 1 977, the territory
was incorporated into the Diocese ofCharlotte under Begley. He was most gracious, and working
with us to insure a smooth transition to welcome Belmont Abbey into the Diocese grateful.
—
for that, we were most
And we have the warmest and fondest memories of Bishop Begley. We are happy he will
buried here in our cemetery.
We feel
it's
be
particularly fitting that Begley will be in the section reserved
"I often traveled with him across the country and overseas as the regional and national secre-
well liked on the national level of the Catholic
tariat
Daughters.
near a church wherever
— Ruth Carlisle
Belmont Abbey
diocesan pastoral chairman,
treasurer of the Catholic Daughters of North Carolina
1
of the Cursillo movement. If we weren't
Mass right in
we
were, he
his hotel room.
fortable, religious
would say
He was very com-
andfolksy.
He invitedfour of us to go with him to
for the abbots."
— Abbot Placid Solari, O.S.B.
974-80
and out - he really helped us grow in numbers and in courts. He was always there, his door was always open whenever we needed him, and he was very in
my
life, and he was probably the last priest in the diocese who knew my
"I've
known him
all
the
first National Charismatic Conference at Notre
Dame
University.
We were sitting on the lawn
"
"
""
"
'
"
""
2002
February 22,
eating bos lunches father came up
Special to The Catholic
when a young boy and his awe because they had never
"He knew me before
to us, in
man
he was.
of
He was big andfriendly and loved
everyone and didn
't
want to
be put on a pedestal.
of Cursillo for
"The thing that I think ofmost about Bishop is that no one was a stranger, no matter who lie met; that person was important to him at the time. He had a great capacity for listening, and no matter what social class you camefrom,
Begley
ber was
whether you were poor or rich, child Or adult, he
— Mercy Sister Bessie McCarthy first
cas Regional Community
of North Carolina
1972- 74; pastoral associate of
St. Patrick
— Trinitarian Sister Frances Sheridan current director of Catholic Social Services
impression of him was that he was a kind, in
the
,
and diocesan
director of Catholic Social Services,
1975-93
bishop. I
was president ofthe college, he was supportive of my efforts and encouraged me in my work. I especially loved the way he had to admonish me one time when I was presidentfor something Iliad done wrong....
He patted my
hands very gently
and was very wonderful and understanding, but at the same time, I knew that I had been corrected in
knew the bisliop, and I admired him and I What a warm and caringperson lie was, and active in community affairs. He was so ecu"I
He was a people priest, was much loved. We were very fortunate to have him as ourfirst bishop because he set the pace ofthe church in North Carolina in
He was respected and admired by all denominations. All ofmy predecessors loved and respected him tremendously.
He was a blessing and genuinely spiri-
"
— Methodist Bishop
L.
a dearfriend. He was one ofthe
firstpriests I've ever met,
and lie would liave end-oftlie-
ilu>
time wlien
tlie
bisliop
paper decided
of the
to
lie
me personally and always worried about my
traveling andputting in longliours.
Hewouldalways
When he needed to make his point,
he did.
He
always had timefor everyone, including me. I never
had to hunt him down; he always had time to as he put it.
nomicjustice commitments.
He was an outstanding
spokesman and leader. He was clearly very much an
Protestant organization. It
my opinion,
was a great day
in the
Council ofChurches when the Roman Catlwlic Dio-
'Only the
replied,
title
has
began working fulltime for him on Jan. 12, 1972, and his changed, not the man.'
He was cepted us
—
I
I
was
his secre-
very family-oriented and achis staff and his parishioners
down
—
He was just as com-
at
an informal dinner
of combread and beans with coal miners in
in case his suit
spirit.
needed mending or
his sboes
were a little dusty. He did all of the things that were expected of him but never lost his sense of humor. A person couldn't be around him without feeling like he cared, and I admired his spirit of love for everyone and his overflowing generosity."
thescene,
met Bishop Begley
in
1975 when our
community was considering missioning myself and two other sisters to Charlotte. The bishop met with
us,
looked us over and said he
wouldpray to
Holy Spirit. Then, we later learned that he had called the Motherhouse and said we could the
come.
We continued the work that had already
started to
expand under his guidance
into
Win-
ston-Salem andAs/ieville with the different ministries that
had
opened.
He was
wonderful,
and gregarious, a very good easy to work with. He blessed our ministries, and they have continued to grow. The one stoiy that struck me is when we had an office party, and he came dressed in a shawl with an empty glass dish with a lid. He
friendly, supportive
man and priest. He was
fingerprints on the Council.
It
— Aloha Torrents,
long
significant
which I am grateful.
I've also
learned a great deal this week about his efforts to build bridges to those ofot/ier Christian denominations and his life-long commitment to tlie least ofJesus' brot/iers
and sisters. His impact on our state was significant and will continue to touch people, I suspect, even after his death.
We will be remembering Bishop Begley in
ourprayers...
— J.George Reed North Carolina Council of Churches
he had
I
still
—
to
me
He
as a
have a mission-
work
in the diocese.
influences
me
even to
would describe him
as a
diocese and in building up his programs and offices and ministries."
He was the bishop when
work ofecumenism and socialjustice.
-
of God, who had zeal for the salvation of souls, and whose enthusiasm for his ministry was catching; you were drawn into that enthusiasm and that zeal for his work. On the human scale, his affableness helped to draw a person into that work of ministry, in which he was involved as our shepard. He had the tremendous advantage of having known North Carolina inside and out for almost 40 years before he was named bishop, so he knew all of the people, all of the parishes, and deep roots in North Carolina. He had a tremendous amount of personal friendships and relationships that had been established over the years to draw upon immediately in establishing the
1985, in recognition ofhis powerful contributions to the
in
man
And the Council presentedhim with our Distinguished Service Award in stepfor
definitely
this day.
the Diocese ofC/iarlotte requested membership in the
North Carolina Council of Churches, a
North Carolina
ary spirit in your
former executive director of the Council of
"While I have recently arrived on
life in
young seminarian
Churches
1979-85
Serving since the early '30s
the Catholics were such a minority.
— Collins Kilburn
'share,
—
definitely imparted that to
after his retirement, I didn 't have to lookfor tofind his
"I
I
to had the spirit of a missionary since
assistant editor of the North Carolina
Catholic, Charlotte Office,
I
North Carolina, that was part of
Bishop Begley's secretary
cese ofCharlottejoined.
He had a real charm about him.
— Mary Coyne Wessling first
He
touch him up before he went anywhere just
pioneer in Catholic cliarities and lie had strong eco-
joimdthe Council ofChurclies, which wasforyears a
was.
I
like
and
relate to
down-to-earth attitude about himselfthat one would be misled into thinking that he warn 't as sharp as he
but
I
working for a monsignor, don't know about working for a 'I
He was a real
"He was very affable, very easy to get along with in spirit and attitude.
was tliat under his leadership tlw Clwrhtte Diocese
but he
to be his personal secretary, and
Kentucky as he was with bishops, cardinals and other men of the church hierarchy. I always kept black thread and shoe polish to
Begley
had such a
He was a very smart man,
me
fortable sitting
and ordained by Bishop
ecumenical spirit. Most significantly, in
ask me ifI were taking care ofmyself.
asked
as his extended family.
Nothing was beneath his dignity.
open
was a grandfatherfigurefor me. He always cared
about
was ordained a
— Monsignor Tim O'Connor
another office in Charbtte. I was a one-person office
for sevenyears. I realized at his memorial service that
for
any church at all; they had no practice of religion and I remember him saying to me there's a lot of work we have to do in North Carolina. He was inviting me to study for the priesthood and to join him, I think, in the mission of the Catholic Church in North Carolina. I received from him a missionary spirit. He had a missionary didn't have
Catholic
tary until he retired in 1984.
before as after li£
my
to raise
called us in 1971
personality never changed.
rector of Raleigh Cathedral
and was
home
were appreciated. I was touclied by tlie wannth oft/ie
president of Sacred Heart College
boss
to be his secretary part
could stay at
summer barbequesfor the seminarians to let us know we
1974- 87
diocese at
Bevel Jones, retired
"I considered him
bishop.
"He was myfirst
me
I
and said tliat there would be a new diocese and that he was asked to be the bishop. He
bishop.'
was the sarm man
Belmont,
I
said to him,
tual.
— Mercy Sister Mary Michel Boulus in
he asked
as
young son. I remember when he
man. 1 loved'his simplicity. He was neverpompous. He
the Charlotte Diocese.
ties,
him
menical-he reached out across denominational lines.
wonderful bishop, a most
think he
I became acwas taking instruction to convert to Catholicism. He became close to my family and me as time went on. When he became director of Catholic Chari-
quainted with
time so
gentle and wonderful man.
and I
gentle and happy person.
loved him.
a most gentle way. I knew, him as a
went
Carolina— those people who just Bishop Begley with his secretary, Aloha Linhares Torrents. "I first met Bishop Begley in 1965 as said, 'They told me to bring a covered dish. He the new pastor of St Ann Church. My first had his own humor.
Archdiocese of Mobile, Ala. and former co-administra-
perintendent ofthe orphanage in Raleigh. Wlien I
I
remember his great concern for the many unchurched people in North
Synod,
knew Bishop Begley before he became was stationed with him when was su-
applied to the diocese
interview with Bishop Begley; was just a candidate for seminarian.
tor
"I
I
my
Cathedral,
1973-79
when
to be a seminarian.. .in 1979.
'
president of the Sisters of Mercy of the Ameri-
—
—
seven years
was attentive whileyou were in his presence. I will always remember him as a down-toearth person, simple and yet sophisticated always thereforyou in good times and bad times. He was always an approachableperson and a great advocate for the poor and disabled. He did things around Charlotte that people never knew about.
knew him
—
— Dorothy King diocesan laywoman director
I
5
he baptized me when I was a few weeks old; he was pastor of St. Ann in Charlotte. I had the honor of being baptized by the future bishop of the diocese. My grandparents they were beginning members of St. Ann's in Charlotte always spoke so highly and in such glowing terms of Monsignor Begley. When I was growing up I had always heard about Monsignor Begley and what a wonderful pastor he was and what a wonderful person he was. One thing I especially remem-
been that close to a bishop. Bishop Begley invited tliem over and welcomed them; that was the type
News & Herald
Father Peter Jugis with Bishop Begley.
— Father Peter Jugis Judicial Vicar
6
News & Herald
Special to The Catholic
February 22,
2002
Friends and family gather
The flock pays tribute to to celebrate end of an era their beloved shepherd By
JOANN
S.
KEANE
his homily,
CHARLOTTE— An
adorned
altar
with red roses, and a cathedral friends:
filled
with
A bittersweet celebration of life on
Valentine's Day.
At the
vigil liturgy at St.
Cathedral, Bishop Michael in state
Msgr. McSweeney
cally offered gratitude to those
Editor
Patrick
Begley lay
J.
within the church he established
as the Cathedral of the Diocese of Char-
specifi-
who
By KEVtN
ten-
derly cared for Bishop Begley in those
"He was a man, a priest, a bishop who would never hesitate to say thank you," said Msgr. McSweeney. "Bishop Begley was a man of suffering," said Msgr. McSweeney. "He had some serious problems health wise, but you did not hear about them."
tioned before the as St. Gabriel
many
service.
Love
he
is
laity
most endeared by the
who worked
priests
and
side-by-side with the
bishop during the early
'70s;
the forma-
tive years for the Diocese.
Bishop Begley had time for everyone, Msgr. McSweeney. No matter how busy he may have been, to Bishop Begley, said
you would matter most.
Msgr. McSweeney had a special bond with Bishop Begley. Msgr. McSweeney was the first priest ordained for the Diocese of Charlotte, ordained
Bishop Begley. Moreover,
in
by
the early
years of the bishop's retirement, Msgr.
McSweeney shared
a residence with the
bishop on several occasions.
more recent
Bishop Begley lived at Maryfield Nursing Home in High Point, where the impeccable care for the bishop was second to none. During In the
—
final
Cathedral the
people touched Bishop Begley's coffin dur-
filled
with people,
they approached the cas-
Some mourners
Bishop Begley's family during the
returned from the
stood vigilant
ket to pay their personal respects.
I
who had touched so many lives. Bishop Curlin made a point to thank
priest"
commendation. "You have given us a wonderful bishop," he said. "I knew him for a feW years, and he certainly touched my heart in many, many ways." Bishop Curlin noted that many
Church
tearful as
loved and revered by many, but perhaps
that
"the great uncle" and "the understanding
With swords
They
altar.
Diocese of Charlotte. As the opening
—
—
family had of the 'loving, selfless brother,"
sheathed at their sides, the Knights of Columbus flanked the open casket posi-
many attending the vigil those who knew Bishop Begley knew by rote. Bishop Begley was a simple man of faith,
was a man who was loved." Msgr. McSweeney spoke words
"Just before Christmas,
—
CHARLOTTE
final years.
had a talk with the bishop about the doctor's recommendation. It was about the (possible) amputation of his feet," said Msgr. McSweeney. "And (the bishop) looked at me (refusing the surgery) and said 'I will walk to heaven.'" "Everyone here thinks of Bishop Begley as a friend he treated people that way," said Monsignor Joseph Kerin, who also shared reflections during the vigil
Knights of Columbus, four abreast, stood still with reverent attention. Tonight, said Monsignor John J. McSweeney, "we gather here to celebrate the end of an era." Bishop Begley, said Msgr. McSweeney "was a man of love, he lotte.
MURRAY
E.
Associate Editor
vigil liturgy at St. Patrick
night before, but the gathering more than
ing
doubled
thing holy," said Bishop Curlin. "Your love is very tangible here. Please pray for
in size for the Feb.
mass of the Bishop Michael
15 funeral J.
Mass
for celebrating the
missionary; a
membered
Begley,
was a of a leader; a was fondly re-
bishop emeritus of Charlotte.
It
life
man who
shepherd of the
as the first
hymn "The King
Communion. 'Like touching some-
him...everyday whisper his in
name
your prayers...you know he
praying for
to
God
will be
us."
Concelebrants included: Bishop Joseph Gossman, bishop of Raleigh; Bishop
"Many
people referred to him corhumble person. I would say (he) was a simple" and genuine person," said Msgr. Kerin. "His evenness of personality was amazing. He was what you
sion of bishops, priests, deacons, and semi-
Kevin Boland, bishop of Savannah; Bishop Rober' J. Baker, bishop of Charleston; Bishop David B. Thompson,
rectly as a
narians stretched the length of the church.
bishop emeritus of Charleston; Bishop
Bishop William G. Curlin, bishop of Charlotte, uncelebrated the Mass with
Martin Lohmuller, retired auxiliary bishop of Philadelphia; Abbot Placid
an array of concelebrants, including the
Solari, O.S.B.,
saw."
Most Reverend John
Bishop Begley, said Msgr. Kerin, "brought a relaxed, dedicated attitude to the priests and laity of the diocese. He helped steer it from a small missionary diocese to the beginning of the population explosion and still kept the missionary
bishop of Atlanta and Bishop Begley's
spirit."
"He was a joy to know, a joy to work and a wonderful bishop and gentle leader," said Msgr. Kerin.
for
past,
Contact Editor Joann Keane by call-
ing
(704)
370-3336
jskeane@charlottediocese.org
or
My
Shepherd
Is" played,
F.
of
a proces-
Donoghue, arch-
successor in Charlotte.
Monsignor Joseph Showfety, who had served as Bishop Begley's chancellor, gave a homily filled with insight into "die man whom so many of us admired and loved," Msgr. Showfety said. "Now as we gather to express our farewell, we honor a good man, a holy priest and a most generous bishop. We admire him for his more than 67 years of priesthood." Msgr. Showfety said he worked closely with Bishop Begley for nearly eight years. "Regardless of (Begley's) as-
—
signments lic
superintendent of the Catho-
orphanage, pastor of several parishes
in the diocese
—he
lotte
of Raleigh, bishop of Char-
loved and cared for his flock and
served them with the dedication of the
Good
Shepherd," he said. Judith Crowley, niece of Bishop Begley, spoke on behalf of the family. She reflected
on the man
affectionately re-
ferred to as "Uncle Mike."
"In the Irish language, 'Begley'
means
'the littie hero,'"
'There
is
nothing
of Belmont Abbey; Monsignor John J. McSweeney, pastor of St. Matthew; and Father Mauricio W. West, chancellor and vicar general of Charlotte. Other concelebrants included: priests serving the Diocese of Charlotte; visiting priests
from the Diocese of Raleigh: per-
manent deacons and seminarians of the Diocese of Charlotte; the Knights and Dames of Malta; the Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulcher; and the Catholic Daughters of America. At the end of the Mass, the procession
made
its
way
outside to the steps of the
church, with Bishop Begley's pallbearers
being priests that he had ordained. Bishop Begley was then taken for burial in the
cemetery of the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians at Belmont Abbey, Belmont. "He left his mark on the Diocese of Charlotte," said Msgr. Showfety, "and he will not be forgotten." "He will always be part of our kves," said Bishop Curlin. Speaking in Gaelic, Crowley bid her beloved uncle farewell. "Safe home, Michael Begley," she said.
she told the church.
littie
about the hero
we
offered the fond
Contact Associate Editor Kevin E.
Murray
are celebrating today."
She
J.
memories her
by calling (704) 370-3334, or e-mail
kemurray@charlottediocese.org.
February 22,
News & Herald 7
Special to The Catholic
2002
Reflections in his
own words
Nowadays, it may seem a bit premature for a youth of 17 or 18 to set his career goals, but in 1927, times were different. It was not unusual for Catholic boys to consider a life in the priesthood and to enter the seminary upon graduation from high school. I was one of those young men. I
was privileged
to attend Cathedral
High School,
a Catholic school in Springfield, Mass., after attending
my senior year, we had an opportunity to talk about vocations, and that is when I first gave it some serious thought. Then one evening, I was asked to assist a priest in setting up for confirmation in our church. He asked me to retrieve a small table inside the altar rail. I'm not sure what happened when I public grade school. In
stepped inside the altar area for that
but
first time,
I
remember it had a profound and lasting effect on me. I guess you could say the seeds of my vocation began to take root that night. Exhilarated as
I
was,
I
still
had some serious decisions to make about my chosen vocation. I talked about it one evening with a priest. told him I was interested in becoming a priest. I was expecting him to be impressed and delighted with my decision, but instead, he asked me, "What do you hope to achieve in the priesthood?" That stopped I
me. I
wanted
to be a priest, but
I
had no idea where
how I would like to minister to God's people. He teaching, missionary made many suggestions work, parish work. Then he did something that
or
—
would
set the course of
me
my
life;
he made an appoint-
meet with a bishop who was visiting in the area and was looking for men to serve in his diocese. That man was Bishop William Hafey, the first bishop of Raleigh. I was impressed with Bishop Hafey and the story of a very young Catholic Church taking root in the Southeastern United States. With-
ment
for
out another
to
moment
of hesitation,
a priest in a mission area in
be
my
life's
I
knew
my own
that being country would
calling.
After completing
my
seminary studies
at
Mount
Emmitsburg, Md., I was ordained to the priesthood on May 26, 1934. I arrived in Raleigh on June 20, 1934, to serve as an assistant at St. Mary Church in Wilmington. Although that assignment was brief, it proved to be a good experience for me. One side note: when I left my home in Massachusetts to serve as a priest in North Carolina, my parents thought I may as well have left for China both places seemed as distant to them. But despite St.
Mary's
in
—
their reservations, they supported a priest
me
and gave
all
my
decision to be
the love and understanding
any young man could hope for from his parents. They have always been the first and greatest inspiration for
me
in
my
life
as a priest.
Prior to arriving in the Diocese of Raleigh,
I
received a note from Bishop Hafey that said simply:
"Bring a car with you." I had no idea how important a vehicle would be to me. In those early years, I spent a good deal of time on the rural roads of Eastern North Carolina. All the priests back then spent a lot of time away from their parishes because there were many people who needed a priest and did not live were on within driving distance of the churches.
We
File
photo by
Mary Coyne Wessling
See REFLECTIONS, pages 8,9,10
8 Special to The Catholic
News & Herald
February 22,
2002
Reflections in his o*4 'J aori/s
As the road three weeks out of four almost
every month. We would stay in homes who lived in the mis-
people's
sionary sections of the diocese.
have
I
I
tion to their faith.
Mass
shown
and take
young Yankee from
New
England. I barely had my feet wet as a priest when, three months later, I was made pastor of St. Therese Church in Wilson and its mission in Farmville. It came as both a shock and a challenge for me. I
told
my
pastor of St.
Mary
that
I
was
hesitant about the assignment, but he told
me
dence
that
me
in
also assured
if
the bishop had confi-
as a pastor,
me
that he
I must go. He would give me
any support I might need in my new assignment. "The door to my house is always open to you," he said.
was the first of many appointments that I would fill at the- request of my bishops and the first of many moments over the next 50 years that I would feel a bit hesitant in carrying out the important duties that were charged to me. But that priest gave me It
the key to
my
success in ministry: to
depend on others, especially my fellow priests for support and encouragement. It was the same advice that, years later, I would find myself giving to the
young men who came
to
my
diocese to serve. Like that priest, I would make it a point to leave my door
open to
all
who sought my
For the next dozen as pastor at St.
Edward
help.
years, in
I
served
High
Point,
Therese in Wrightsville Beach and St. Leo in Winston-Salem. In addition, I was appointed superintendent of schools and director of the Confrater-
St.
nity of Christian Doctrine,
now
called
religious education.
Those early years in the Diocese of Raleigh brought many people into my life
who showed me how important
Catholic faith
was
to them:
the
from the
parents who scraped together their pennies to send their children to parochial schools; to the farm families who managed to find an extra helping of dinner for a tired, traveling priest; to
who faced many miles and challenges to bring God's word to children and adults. All of them served as daily reminders that the dedicated sisters
our
faith
was
alive
and growing.
I
was
glad to be a part of the church of North Carolina and looking forward to more
rewarding years.
my
last
column,
remember one
I
man who would come
fond memories of those times and of the" true Southern hospitality that was to me, a
related in
there were always people along the way who inspired me with their devo-
weekly
to our
Edward on Tuesdays. In do that, he had to leave work
at St.
order to
a cut in pay.
sacrifice for this
man
It
was
to lose
a real
pay and
to Mass but instead of his boss being angry, he was impressed and said that the man could continue to attend Mass and have his pay reinstated. I thought that was a tremendous statement for evangelization.
come
Another true inspiration for me was my spiritual director and friend, Father Patrick Darrah. Father Darrah was a Passionist priest stationed in Greensboro when I met him. My salvation often depended spirituwith Father Darrah. He stayed by me in the rough times all the way up to 1954 when he died. During my years as a parish priest I had the opportunity to serve under three bishops. In 1938 Bishop Hafey was transferred to Scranton, Pa., and Bishop Eugene McGinnis came in. Each man had his own style of leadership and I, as well as the other priests, had to adjust to the new ally
styles of leadership. That took some doing, especially since there was a
misunderstanding that took place shortly after Bishop McGinnis' instalI was transferred to Wrightsville Beach and told there would be a home at Carolina Beach with a room for a chapel. Unfortu-
lation.
nately, the
man who owned
had no intention of selling
it
the
home
and
I
was
forced to live in a summer cottage without heat for part of that winter. I stayed there only on the weekends, returning to Greensboro during the
The eucharistic Prayer of the ordination Mass. From left: Father Christopher Kirchgessner, O.S.B., Father David Brown, O.S.B., (Master of Ceremonies), Bishop Michael Begley and then-Father Placid Solari, O.S.B.
week
to teach catechism at a black Catholic school.
That was an interesting experience as well. I had almost no contact with Negroes when I was growing up in Massachusetts. When I met black people in North Carolina, I was struck with the way some people treated them. I never did understand why one priest told me I couldn't converse with the black man who was his housekeeper.
When
ment began
the civil rights
to take effect in
moveNorth
I welcomed the changes it would bring for these people, for
Carolina,
all
of It
the church.
When we
arrived at his
was appalled at how filthy the place was and how dirty he looked. I was embarrassed but Bishop McGinnis never said a word about the appearance of the man or his home. He simply treated the man with graciousness and thanked him
home
I
for his donation.
us.
seemed
about people in those years when I served as a parish priest. I remember one incident when Bishop McGinnis came to Carolina Beach with me to meet a man who had donated land to
I
was learning
a
lot
In
1946 Bishop McGinnis de-
parted for Salt Lake City and the Dio-
cese of Raleigh welcomed Bishop Vincent Waters. Bishop Waters was barely settled in when he came to me and asked me to be either chancellor for the diocese or director of Catholic Charities. I wanted to be a pastor, period. (I was stationed by then at St. Leo in Winston-Salem.) I thought the discussion was closed but a few weeks later he had a replacement for me at St. Leo and I was on the road for the next six weeks traveling to dioceses up north to gather collections for our diocese.
February 22,
Special to The Catholic
2002
and Our Lady of Grace in On Thanksgiving Day, 1971, I was made the first bishop of the newly established Diocese of
News & Herald 9
L.eo
Greensboro.
Charlotte.
I
Achievements
will share those recollec-
my years as acting bishop with you in my next column. Before I end this, however, I would like to say that serving under my three bishops was at times a challenge and always a learning experience. I feel blessed to have served under each of them. tions and
Here are just a few of the achievements and honors bestowed upon Bishop Michael
J.
Begley over
the years:
Ordained
May
Honored by Pope Pius
XII
domestic prelate and given the monsignor in 1955.
Honorary doctorate
November 1971 before
— The Tuesday
Thanksgiving, Bishop Waters
arrived in Greensboro for an unex-
pected visit. I was truly surprised when he asked me if I would accept the office of bishop. I wanted time to think. "If you are wondering about whether you merit being bishop, don't. No one merits being called." I
new
was challenged
role in leadership
and
I
had many tasks
in
Emmitsburg, Md.; Belmont Abbey College, Belmont; Allentown College, Allentown, Pa.; and the former Sacred
Heart College, Belmont.
the boards he served
to begin a
were: Mercy Hospital Advisory Board,
up the
Johnson C. Smith University Board of Visitors, TO LIFE Advisory Board, Boys Town of North Carolina Board of Directors, Sacred Heart College Board of Directors and the Land Stewardship Council of North Carolina Board of
set
newly established Diocese of Charlotte.
of
of letters
mater. Mount Saint Mary College
Among I
as a
title
(LL.D) were bestowed by his alma
accepted.
Now
on
to the priesthood
26, 1934.
like finding a
cathedral, vicar general, chancellor,
diocesan consultors and a bishop's residence and adjusting to my sudden popularity, especially with the bank-
Directors.
ers in Charlotte.
But the details of being a bishop were not nearly as challenging as the transformation of my attitudes. Where once I was a peer among my priests, now I was their leader. Where once I was charged with caring for the spiritual lives of
must care
my parishioners, now
for an entire diocese, but
had much help
in
my new
When
I arrived home Bishop Wahad more plans for me. I was set to attend the University of North Carolina to obtain a degree in social work. I began those studies in 1947 and during those two years I was also superintendent of the Catholic orphanage in Raleigh. Needless to say, it was a busy time for me but a rewarding one, too. One of the proudest moments I shared at the orphanage was when we
ters
received a state license for adoption. Up until that time we could not place the children in homes. were also
We
granted permission to find foster homes for the children. Both of these licenses brought a profound and blessed change to many children's lives.
In 1955 St.
I
was appointed pastor of
Ann Church
in Charlotte.
Waters had faith that up that new parish and
know
I
Bishop
would build
school.
I
don't
had as much confidence in myself as he did. I admired him for how much he knew about mission work and his dream of building up if
I
the diocese.
My
final
pastorates included St.
North Carolina
person of the Catholic Committee on Appalachia, a
member of the
Bishop's
I
Committee on
I
Episcopal advisor for Cursillo; he
role.
I started by building a team of people to help me. I had an advantage in choosing people because I had been a
37 years. I knew all the priests, many of the sisters and lay leaders, and they knew me. I also knew the organizations and movements and where they stood. I was on the inside track, and I was grateful for
priest in
He also served as co-publisher of The North Carolina Catholic, chair-
for
that edge. It was not long after I was made bishop that people outside the diocese began seeking my assistance. I was asked to join committees of the National Council of Catholic Bishops, local civic organizations and regional groups. One
of the most important committees I joined and chaired was the Catholic Committee on Appalachia (CCA). Bish-
Priestly Formation,
and initi-
ated a dialogue between church,
la-
management that resulted the document "The Workbench
of
and he appointed a taskforce
to
bor and
Life"
study the role of
in
women in the Church.
Bishop Begley was honored by numerous organizations and groups both in this diocese and throughout the state of North Carolina.
Series
was
written
by Mary Coyne
Wessling and originally appeared the North Carolina Catholic.
in
10 Special
to
The Catholic News & Herald
February 22,
was made bishop. I was also disappointed with people who never came forward to share their gifts with the others. Even now I feel disappointment in that.
As
a leader,
the need for to
make
all
came
I
to appreciate
of us to share our talents
this diocese prosper.
must learn
learned that leaders
I
also
to ask
for help.
What on
I
learned as a priest,
bishop.
as
who wished
I
I
passed
told the seminarians
to serve our diocese that
they must be willing to
make
sacrifices,
and personally. They would live in an area where Catholicism is not a major religion and much depends on ecumenical efforts. They would travel financially
great distances, attend
many
meetings,
be open and sharing with their lay people, and promote the church in every community they visited through their example.
Though
it
was
new
a
diocese
ing rapidly, though Vatican
new
life
into our church,
II
and though
four decades had passed since
knew
grow-
breathed
I
was
spoke to these young men that the more things changed, the more they stayed the same. ordained,
I
as
I
2002
ments but God did not promise roses
who
to those
believe in him.
He
asked
us to take up our cross and follow him.
Times may be difficult but times when your spiritual your
it is
life
in those
becomes
security.
am pleased that I had a hand in helping the Diocese of Charlotte grow. But I have often thought over the years: what could I have done without the help of others? I feel deeply blessed by the number of good people that I
came into my young people.
life,
especially so
many
may
not have been their natural father but they would tell
me
that
I
was
I
certainly there as a "fa-
was not only the highcompliments but also a sign that we were truly sharing our lives. I was glad, too, that a good man like Bishop Donoghue was succeeding me. I remember offering this soon-tother" to them.
It
est of
be consecrated bishop some advice in overseeing the diocese. I told him it was a mission diocese and he would need to get accustomed to the distances in travel. I also told him to get accus-
tomed to making decisions and sticking by them even if he's criticized for it. "Sometimes when you make decisions, you will gain a different title," I said. And I added that there would be nights he would go to bed being concerned but that was just part of the job. I know that not everyone can enter retirement feeling fulfilled in their ca-
reer and
Just prior to my retirement in 1984, asked a fellow bishop what to expect as a gentleman of leisure. He said I would do more than ever before. He was right. I've been fortunate to be I
succeeded by Bishop Donoghue who graciously extends many opportunities to me to serve as the bishop representative throughout the diocese.
was also told that more of my would open up to me, share more with me once I was no longer their "boss." That has been a good exI
priests
tions to the abject poverty that pre-
the emergence of lay leadership are a
know they can confide in me and share their lives with me. I have found many priests, sisters and laity ready to help me in any way they can, and I am grateful
vailed in this region of the country.
few
for that, too.
Through the work I did on CCA, I came to know Appalachian families and the struggles they faced. I was moved
There were struggles, too. I was privy to more information about people. Sometimes it was hard to know that
by their spirit and humbled by their poor existence. I had a clearer under-
when people shared
perience for me. I'm glad to ops, religious, clergy
and lay people of
several southeastern states sought solu-
standing of the need for the church to all people but especially
reach out to the poor.
There were other highlights
in
my
years as diocesan bishop: the fight for
unions at
J.P. Stevens, the
growth of
many movements born out of Vatican II, the formation of new parishes, and I
recall.
their confidences with me, however harmful that information was to them or people they loved, it had to be retained. That was my duty, but it was also my burden. It
was
also difficult to
the priests, with priest,
know
whom
I
that
felt
some of
close as a
distanced themselves
when
I
my
age prevents me I wish to do but I've learned to adjust. I have found some grace-filled moments in the slower pace of life. Since my retirement, I've had time I
realize that
from doing everything
on my life as priest, pastor and bishop. Looking back over this to reflect
55-year vocation, have few regrets.
I
can honestly say
Of course
I
there were
struggles, frustrations and disappoint-
life. I
realize
I
am among
the
chosen few to be graced with answering the call to serve through the priestly ministry and again serve as a bishop. I have never taken either role for granted nor have I assumed I was worthy to have them. But I accepted the plans God laid before me. Though the road was sometimes twisting and covered in fog, the journey has been exciting and fruitful. And what more could
I
ask?
Special to The Catholic
2002
February 22,
News & Herald
11
Thirty Years
Looking back helps shape the future By
JOANN
S.
KEANE
Greensboro, North Carolina."
was accomplished.
Editor
Before the formation of the Diocese
Shortly before the bishops met in Rome for the 1971 Synod, Pope Paul
of Charlotte in 1972, the late Bishop Vincent S. Waters would regularly
VI
throughout North Carolina to visit the parishes and missions in his far-flung Diocese of Raleigh. Between the two farthest points in the state Murphy (in the westernmost corner) to Manteo (on the Outer Banks) the span is 450 miles. With the exception of the area under the jurisdiction of the Benedictine abbot of Belmont Abbey, North Carolina was one diocese. By
smaller units, "on human scale." Pope Paul VI's desire was to make the office of the bishop more pastoral than
travel 2,400 miles
—
—
1970s, that jurisdiction of
the early
—
which had once had covered most of the state diminished to cover only Gaston County. North and South Carolina originally were part of the Diocese of Charleston, the Benedictines
—
said
it
was
his intention to divide
the larger dioceses of the world into
administrative.
On Nov. 30, 1971, Bishop Waters wrote a letter to Catholics in North Carolina announcing, "Our Holy Father, Pope Paul VI, through the Most Reverend Apostolic Delegate, has made known to us that he has in mind very soon to erect from the territory of the Diocese of Raleigh, a new Diocese of Charlotte. He has chosen, the first bishop of the prospective Diocese of Charlotte, our own Reverend Monsignor Michael J. Begley, pastor of Our Lady of Grace parish,
There were 53 parishes and 22 mis-
The new
diocese would encompass the 46 western counties of North Carolina from Reidsville and Hamlet
Tennessee state line would also include the territory formerly under the jurisdiction of Belmont Abbey. And so, on Jan. 12, 1972, the Diocese of Charlotte was born. Bishop Michael J. Begley was ordained as the in the east to the in the west. It
bishop for the new diocese. By coincidence, Bishop Begley was a cousin of Bishop Hafey, first bishop of Raleigh. At the formation of the Diocese of Charlotte in 1972, statistics showed a Catholic population of 35,585 with 39 diocesan priests. 27 religious first
priests and
249
sisters,
which
in-
cluded Sacred Heart Motherhouse of the Sisters of Mercy in Belmont.
sions.
In 2001, the Catholic population
had swelled to 128,775. Sixty-five diocesan priests, 62 religious priests, 108 sisters and 73 permanent deacons served the area. In the same time span, the diocese grew to 68 parishes and 23 missions. Bishop Begley served the diocese until his retirement in 1984. Bishop John F. Donoghue was consecrated and installed as second bishop in 1984, serving until his elevation to archbishop of Atlanta in 1993. Bishop William G. Curlin was installed as third bishop of the Diocese of Charlotte on April 13, 1994. Contact Editor Joann Keane by calling
(704)
370-3336
or
jskeane@charhttediocese.org
serving 5,000 Catholics with 17 churches
and 16
priests.
The Second
Council of
Baltimore in 1866 proposed to the Holy
See the designation of North Carolina as a vicariate.
most 60 It
It
remained a vicariate for
al-
years.
was the consecration of Will-
iam Joseph Hafey on Dec.
5,
1925, as
bishop of Raleigh that began the journey to the future of the Catholic first
Church in North Carolina. The youngest bishop in the United States at the time, Bishop Hafey served as bishop for the state until 1937, when he became the bishop of Scranton, Pa.
Bishop Eugene J. McGuinness was appointed as his successor, and served the state from 1937 until his taking over the Oklahoma-Tulsa diocese in 1944. In 1945, Bishop
Waters was
stalled third bishop of Raleigh. It
in-
was
under his direction that the formation of a second North Carolina diocese
Pictured above: Bishop Begley during a Mass at the former Our Lady of the Hills Camp in Hendersonville.
Mary Coyne Wessling,
first assistant
editor for the
North Carolina Catholic newspaper's Charlotte office shows Bishop Begley the newspaper's computer system.
Pictured right: Bishop Begley celebrates Mass Aquinas Makin and Miriam Miller.
In this
file
photo, Bishop Begley reads to students at
All Saints School in Charlotte.
in the chapel
of the bishops' residence with Franciscan Sisters Mary
12 Special
to
The Catholic News & Herald
Behind the coat-of-arms
the needs of others:
his fellow priests, pa-
and Cuban refugees, orphaned
NANCY WEST
If loving
Guest Columnist
Hungarian
afternoon I heard the future bishop's motto was a good time and will remain a warm memory for me. As I was making a bed for one of our
new Bishop of
He
and
still
shot back,
"I
Abbey, and motto,
I
Work and
He
was even surprised
Benedictine
continued with the details about
me
would see several
But now the bishop-elect told what his motto would be, and my heart
was
later.
said,
He
explained, 'This
is
partly because
of my connection with Catholic Social Services
and partly because of my association
with Cursillo."
But
his
being there telling
me
about
it
contained part of the reason too, for his
—
He
"sistren."
does love the brethren and For example, what reason other
than his interest in
my
writing avocation,
could he have for asking me,
Moses of
Grandma
the Typewriter, to "cover" his
"We
from St John's
have chosen a phrase
first epistle,
3rd chapter,
the great happenings and the multiple details,
he had remembered
his friend, the
The upper left quarter shows
ancestry.
The upper
right
quarter holds
photocopy
I
am
to
The animal is
band
John the
base
Evangelist.
Theophane was lobby of her convent when
In Belmont, Sister
we came in out of the rain. She took us to a guest dining room where we sat around the on her designs. Sister, a wellknown painter and art instructor at Sacred Heart College, has a disarming smile. She said she was really glad to have some outtable to feast
have never really
done anything like this. (I know just how you feel, Sister, I thought.) But you can't
rolls to signify
family's coat of
arms and also found on the
orphanage building of Nazareth, where
the bishop once served as director.
Tower of David" and Tower of Ivory." The fourth quarter on thelowerleft holds the see city of the diocese.
lotte,
silver
marks which, according
to the
involvement in the Cursillo movement.
Across the bottom of the coat of arms is
a
scroll
upon which
his
motto appears.
Bishop Begley retains his seal. for the
A new bishop
diocese will designate his own seal at
the time of his installation.
DD
1123 South Church Street NC 28203
Charlotte,
Dear Bishop Curlin, condolences on the passing of Bishop Michael J. Begley to your entire not only lost your founding Bishop, but you have lost one of your
You have
strongest missionaries.
Bishop Begley was a true pioneer of the Catholic Church. He displayed the courage of word of the Church in North Carolina. Under his leadership and guidance, the Catholic Church is growing as a strong religious presence in
his convictions as he spread the
our State.
Throughout missionary assistance.
his fifty years of service to the Church, he served as an
- reaching out to people of all He will be remembered by all
was committed In deepest
to his faith
sympathy,
I
and
remain
to the
faith
who were
in
ecumenical
need of guidance and
as a tireless servant and a true visionary.
people he served.
of
those marks also signify his eight years of
Pastoral Center
my
Manual
Heraldry, signifies dignity. For Bishop Begley
February 14, 2002
diocese.
A band of
below the crown shows eight ermine
Easley
Please extend
The
tower also represents the Virgin Mary's titles
Governor
Curlin,
a
Catholic
The lower right quarter shows a tower
know.)
Most Reverend William G.
red
a parapet, a symbol found in the Begley
State of North Carolina Office of the Governor 20301 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-0301 F.
A
of the quarter contains
a crown that signifies the Queen City of Char-
see her sitting at her desk smiling.
Michael
the
and the
Social Services.
old
I
St.
at the
bread basket and
might use," she said, pointing to the cross and crown he'd mentioned. "Aren't you glad Sister Theophane is doing this for him? She's very talented. Oh, he is so nice." Leaving with the copy, I looked back to
refuse him." (Yes,
Spirit;
raven, a symbol for St. Benedict;
by fierce-looking lions and unicorns. "Here's the one the Monsignor thought Sis-
all, I
bird
a composite of three different kinds of birds:
with
"After
a
designed by Mercy Sister Theophane, who
The ornate designs were guarded
side opinion.
"We
a Celtic cross to symbolize the bishop's Irish
eagle for
waiting in the
ordination to the Bishopric? In the midst of
glad.
He
'We
have loved the brethren."
motto.
didn't mind.
Bible translation,
symbol.
silver
Now
this
is
two blue and two green, each containing a
the dove to represent the Holy
ter
In Latin, "Diligimus Fratres."
phrase
As she paused for breath, I injected, "I know just how you feel, Mrs. Kortheur.
her desk.
14th verse.
The New Ameri-
of the
have loved the brethren."
He was!
"Oh yes, the picture of the Queen's coatShe drew it out of an envelope on
The New American
can Bible translation
constructed the coat of arms.
what about
love, ser-
His motto, "Diligimus Fratres," symbolizes his love for others.
he invited me to the ceremony! I never thought I would see a bishop ordained!
anything.
days
knew who he
take to Sister Theophane?"
"This nice lady, Mrs. Kortheur, Katherine, the curator, was most helpful. We must come up with a coat-of-arms, you know, and want to have some authentic symbol relating to Charlotte. She got out Queen Charlotte's coat-of-arms for me, and there seemed to be several possibilities in it. I noticed a cross on a red square with a crown on top. Anyway, Mrs. Kortheur is having the Queen's photographed for me. You could pick it up tomorrow and take it out to Sister Theophane, if you don't mind."
arms chosen by Bishop
The shield itself is divided into quarters:
And
said
I
I
of
Begley expresses his
and dedication to the people of the Dio-
years.
fluence of the bishop-elect's charisma.
Pray.'"
the insignia, which
many
was a visit to Kortheur's office in Mint Museum. The beaming little grey-haired curator was still under the in-
of-arms."
I
for
the Brothers."
the
he had just come from the Mint Museum. I listened, ready to believe
He
the
of-arms,
on the go. "Never mind," he at Belmont
am on retreat am living the
it
it,
Chapter two of the making of the coat-
college students, the doorbell
rang and there he was, our large bishopAs elect, our former pastor at St. Ann. always he radiated strength but not as always, he was definitely excited about something. I soon discovered what. First I teased him about being on retreat
has lived
vice
J.
cese of Charlotte.
children.
Charlotte has aptly chosen
'We Have Loved
his motto.
Michael
caring about the well-being
of others and doing something about
The
homecoming
is
The coat
He remembers
perpetual aspiring writer.
rishioners, ailing housekeepers,
By
2002
February 22,
He