Instaurare | Summer 2019

Instaurare The C hristendom College M agazine

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C OM M EN CEM EN T 2 0 1 9 | A PRO F E S S O R ’ S J O U R N E Y TO T H E H O LY LA N D THE GLORY O F G OTH I C A RCH I T E C T U R E | N U M B E R O F AL U M NI PR I E S T S R E AC HE S 91

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VOLUME 28 | NUMBER 2 | SUMMER 2019 Published three times yearly by the Christendom College Marketing Office.

Executive Editor: Tom McFadden Managing Editor & Design/Layout: Niall O’Donnell Photos: Zachary Smith, Niall O’Donnell, Sarah Ziegler, Tamlyn Sheng, Christiana Fedoryka, Bryan Zhu Contributors: Zachary Smith, Adam Wilson, Niall O’Donnell, Danielle Lemieux Christendom College 134 Christendom Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630 540.636.2900 | christendom.edu Copyright © 2019. Permission to reprint in whole or in part is hereby granted, provided the following credit line is used: “Reprinted by permission from Instaurare, the official magazine of Christendom College (christendom.edu).” SUBSCRIPTION FREE UPON REQUEST.

Instaurare magazine (pronounced “in-sta-rar-ay”) receives its name from the Latin in the college’s motto, “Instaurare Omnia in Christo” or “To Restore All Things in Christ.”

Christendom College does not discriminate against any applicant or student on the basis of sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

CHRISTENDOM COLLEGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ADVISORS TO THE BOARD

Mr. Guy Amisano Sr. Mrs. Donna Bethell (Vice Chairman) Mr. Martin R. Boles Mr. John Cecconi Mr. Robert Crnkovich (Treasurer) Mr. Gene D’Agostino (Secretary) Mr. Timothy Halisky ’01 Mrs. Karla Hester ’99 Mr. Richard Hough Dr. Timothy T. O’Donnell (ex officio) Mr. Stephen O’Keefe ’93 (Chairman) Mr. Mark Swartzberg Mr. Thomas C. West Jr. Ms. Luanne D. Zurlo

Mrs. Mary Ellen Bork Mrs. Bernadette Casey-Smith Mr. John De Matteo Dr. Robert P. George Mr. Daniel Gorman Mrs. Joan Janaro Mrs. Katherine McAvoy Mr. John McNeice Mr. Joseph Melancon Rev. Robert Morey Mr. Robert Mylod The Honorable James Nicholson Mrs. Mary Beth Riordan Rev. George W. Rutler Mr. Mark Ryland The Honorable Rick Santorum Rev. William Saunders Mr. Robert Scrivener ’81 Mr. Owen Smith Mrs. Marjorie Teetor Mr. David Vicinanzo Mr. George Weigel Mr. Thomas Young Mr. Eugene Zurlo

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Seven seniors represent each of Christendom College’s seven majors and the limitless possibilities that a Catholic liberal arts education offers. Read what they have to say in the Commencement 2019 story (page 14).

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Inside This Issue 14

Commencement 2019 One hundred twenty-seven graduates—the largest class in college history—were awarded degrees during commencement weekend, held May 11–13.

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The Glory of Gothic Architecture Pat Haggerty ’96, the project manager for the new Christ the King Chapel, takes a look at the history of Gothic architecture.

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Professor’s Journey to the Holy Land Dr. Brendan McGuire shares his experience of a recent research trip to the land of the Crusaders.

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From the President

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Christ the King Chapel Update

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News in Brief

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Total Number of Alumni Priests Reaches 91

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Hepler and McMahon Families Thrive at Christendom

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In the Classroom

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Sponsor a Student Program Transforms Young Lives

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Photo Album

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Crusader Rugby 2018–19

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Family Affair: Giving Day 2019

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Classmates: Alumni News

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Omnia in Christo: Cities of the Dead

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FROM THE DESK OF PRESIDENT DR. TIMOTHY O’DONNELL

Remembering Christendom College Founding Faculty Member Dr. Kristin Popik Burns (1950-2019) What a loss this has been for Kris’s

“Those who are learned will be as radiant as the sky in all its beauty; those who instruct the people in goodness will shine like the stars for all eternity.”

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family and all of us. The Catholic mind revolves around two great truths: 1. the goodness of the created order 2. the reality of the redemption Kris was deeply aware of these two great truths.

Her love for life and her exuberant spirit were experienced by all who knew her. Even in her battle with cancer, she found time for trips and cruises as she nobly fought and pushed back three times with prayers and God’s grace against her cancer. The fourth time she also fought nobly, but in the end, with her consent, she was called home to Our Blessed Lord.

Kris was so many things: a wife to Mike; a mother to Ed, Karen, and Greg; a sister; an aunt,; a grandmother; a professor; and a dean. She was a trailblazer in many ways. She was the first woman to receive a doctorate in philosophy at the Angelicum. How Kris loved her Catholic faith and the power and glory of Catholic philosophy. She helped Warren Carroll in the early years run the Christian Commonwealth Institute in Spain, along with the likes of Fritz Wilhelmsen, Glen Olson, Brent Bozell, William Marshner, Fr. Mark Pilon, Msgr. Lorenzo Albacete, and Fr. Gerard Steckler, S.J. In this esteemed company Kris fit right in. She even taught philosophy for Kairos—which continued the program for many years. Dr. Carroll tapped her as a founding faculty member, and this woman philosopher became the chair of the philosophy department, dean of women, dean of student affairs, and director of student activities in the early years. The same zeal, energy, and trailblazing spirit were manifested when she assumed the helm at our graduate school—bringing onto our campus the

Vita Consecrata Institute, assisting the diocese of Arlington with its deacon formation program, and establishing an online master of arts program.

So many of us were touched by her and bear her mark. Her infectious sense of humor, her laughter—which I still hear ringing in my ears—her love for the good and the true were truly inspiring. The beauty and manner of her death, with her radiant smile, fill us all with hope. Christ was her friend throughout her life, and I have no doubt that He was there to receive her with open arms.

Kris’s witness was a powerful one. Going back to her time with the Christian Commonwealth Institute in Spain and her service at Christendom College, like the early Christians, she proclaimed “Jesus is Lord!” not just in her private, personal life but in her public life as well. Recalling all that He has worked in her life, I am confident that she has helped open our hearts to the future. There’s an old Irish blessing that wishes: “Not a path devoid of clouds… nor a life on a bed of roses… (remembering who wore the thorns) Nor that you should never feel pain…

But braveness in times of trial… hope when there is little… and in every hour of joy and pain… may you feel God close.”

Let us continue to pray for Kris and her family, trusting in the word of Sacred Scripture and Holy Mother Church in the Divine Office. “Those who are learned will be as radiant as the sky in all its beauty; those who instruct the people in goodness will shine like the stars for all eternity.”

May she rest in peace.

Chris t the Ki n g C ha pel Up date

Construction begins: An excavator in action on the site of the new Christ the King Chapel.

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS The first stages of construction are underway for the college’s new Christ the King Chapel, with equipment arriving on site on May 8. The moment marks the end result of years of hard work and generosity on the part of hundreds of donors, with the chapel set to be the high point of campus for generations to come.

The college recently received approval at the state and local levels to begin work preparing the construction site. The preconstruction began on the site immediately, with contractors cutting in a new construction entrance road. They are also installing erosion and sediment controls around the entire site, and adding sediment ponds, fencing, and walls. Once this is

complete, construction will begin in earnest, with the chapel expected to be complete within 16–19 months after that.

Fundraising for the chapel began in 2016 with the launch of the $40 million Campaign for Christendom, through which the college not only met that goal but exceeded it, raising millions of dollars for the college’s endowment, annual fund, and the new chapel.”

Stay up to date with the latest news, pictures, and videos!

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WITNESSING TO LIFE WITH THE BISHOP This spring, a busload of students, as well as members of the faculty and staff, traveled into Northern Virginia early on Saturday morning, April 6, to join with Diocese of Arlington Bishop Michael Burbidge in prayerfully protesting the horrors of abortion. The event, a pro-life vigil organized by the diocese and also Christendom’s pro-life group, offered a powerful witness to the sanctity of life and the strength of today’s pro-life movement.

ANDERSON IN THE CLASSROOM Christendom has shared a close connection with The Heritage Foundation’s Dr. Ryan T. Anderson for many years, welcoming him to campus for talks on modern issues ranging from marriage to gender identity. But in the 2018–19 academic year, students had the tremendous opportunity to learn from him, as their professor, as he taught a class titled “The Crisis of Modernity.” The course identifies this crisis through an examination of various areas of life, and discusses how to best understand these issues.

ALUMNUS SUCCEEDS HITTINGER Christendom alumnus Dr. Donald Prudlo ’99 (BA & MA) will succeed noted writer, professor, and speaker Dr. Russell Hittinger as the William K. Warren endowed Chair of Catholic Studies at the University of Tulsa this fall. The achievement for Prudlo comes after years of teaching and writing, and marks a high point for one of the college’s most successful alumni in the field of academia.

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CARDINAL RICHELIEU’S HEIRESS Christendom College welcomed Professor Bronwen McShea to campus to deliver a talk titled “One World Was Not Enough for Her: Cardinal Richelieu’s Heiress and Her Missionary Empire” on Monday, April 15.

Sponsored by the college’s history department, the talk transfixed students as they learned about Marie Madeleine de Vognerot du Pont de Courley, the niece of the famed Cardinal Richelieu, and her efforts to develop and expand the French church and its social, charitable, and cultural presence in remarkable ways in America, Africa, and Asia during the 17th century.

STUDENT ATHLETES AWARDED Christendom’s nine United States College Athletic Association teams earned a cumulative team GPA of 3.314. The college also boasted two national Academic Player of the Year awards: Mary Heisler (volleyball) and Emily Farabaugh (cross country). Due to these achievements, Christendom College was awarded the USCAA President’s Cup.

MOTHER OLGA Mother Olga of the Sacred Heart, the founder and mother servant of the Daughters of Mary of Nazareth, delivered a talk titled “In the Church, with the Church, for the Church,” to the Christendom community as part of the Major Speakers Program.

CLASSICAL EXCELLENCE Seven Christendom College students won top spots in the Classical Association of the Middle West and South’s national Latin translation contest.

Amongst hundreds of other competitors, Christendom students represented the school exceptionally well, winning awards in the intermediate and advanced contests, with freshman Mary Clare Young winning the top prize of the competition for placing in the top 3% in the nation.

LIGHT A CANDLE AND IT LASTS FOR A DAY. MAKE A DEDICATION AND IT LASTS FOR GENERATIONS. Honor your loved ones or enshrine your prayer intentions by dedicating sacred art in our new Christ the King Chapel.

Through the Sacred Art Project, we seek to glorify the kingship of Christ by adorning His dwelling place with sacred art that reflects His majesty. The Project will feature new artwork and rescued traditional art crafted to reflect the timeless traditions of our Catholic Faith. The artwork will raise the hearts and minds of our academic community to Heaven for countless years to come.

MAKE A DEDICATION TODAY g i v i n g. c h r i s t en dom. edu

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Beauty of Geometric Proportions T H E G LO RY O F G OT H I C A RC H I T E C T U R E

BY PATRICK HAGGERTY

On June 11, 1144, north of Paris at the Royal Abbey of St. Denis ,

a new style was born. The event was the dedication of the newly renovated choir (the area behind the sanctuary), transformed by the Abbot Suger, from an old Carolinginan structure into a space where walls of tall, luminous stained glass and minimal stone acted to direct the soul to the contemplation of the Divine. The world of the 12th century saw the advancement of many fields of thought and economic change, but also an even deeper spiritual awakening that permeated every aspect of life. Influenced by Augustine’s philosophy of beauty involving geometric proportions, the medieval thinker’s quest for truth and the longing for an elevation beyond the material world were captured in the new architecture.

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Architectural drawing of the Gothic-style façade of the new Christ the King Chapel.

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The windows tell the stories of the life of Christ, Mary, and the Church; the statues of saints and prophets now occupy the edges of the doorways; all pieces are intended to direct the soul back to its Creator.

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This new style became known as the Opus Francigenum, or “French style.” The term “Gothic” was not used until the Renaissance, notably by Florentine historian and architect Georgio Vasari, who wrote that the style was a “deformed malediction” which had distorted the pure forms of classical Greek and Roman architecture in the same way that the barbarian Goths had destroyed the civilized world of the Romans. The hallmark elements of Gothic architecture—the pointed arch, flying buttress, and stained glass windows—all existed in the Romanesque style that preceded. Prior to St. Denis, however, they had never been fused together to create a space where a structural stone skeleton framed luminous panels of glass. Despite Vasari’s criticisms, the style spread throughout Europe and spoke in built form the language of the age.

Using a pointed, or broken, arch, a rectangular bay can be vaulted with an intersection that joins at the same crown, something a round arch cannot accomplish without flattening one arch and thus weakening the structure. This 8

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Gothic arch distributes structural loads better than a round arch and allows a large bay to alight on top of tall, slender columns. The use of the flying buttress to brace the exterior stone walls, built taller and to flank tall panels of stained glass. This luminosity was born of a system of thought that saw light as the purest of form and therefore closest to God. The light filtering through medieval stained glass is not a bright light, but instead has been transformed and recalls Revelation’s description of Heaven’s walls as adorned in jewels.

Stained glass does not make a space bright, contrary to one’s first thought of what “luminous” means. In fact, stained glass is dull without sunlight—and even with it, the actual light levels are reduced. What does happen is that the sunlight is transformed and thus the space within is also transformed.

Augustine referred to Christ as the Divine Light and meant it not at all figuratively; St. John calls Him the Divine Logos, the light that shines in the darkness, and it is this live analogy that glows in the Gothic cathedral.

The windows tell the stories of the life of Christ, Mary, and the Church; the statues of saints and prophets now occupy the edges of the doorways; all pieces are intended to direct the soul back to its Creator. The creation of the structures involved all the individuals of the community. In the construction of Chartres, an excerpt from a letter from Archbishop Hugo of Rouen to Bishop Thierry of Amiens captures the deep saturation of the faithful: “The inhabitants of Chartres have combined to aid in the construction of their church by transporting the materials…[from a local stone quarry]. But while they draw these burdens, there is one thing admirable to observe; it is that often when a thousand

persons and more are attached to the chariots—so great is the difficulty—yet they march in such silence that not a murmur is heard, and truly if one did not see the thing with one’s eyes, one might believe that among such a multitude there was hardly a person present. When they halt on the road, nothing is heard but the confession of sins and pure and suppliant prayer to God to obtain pardon. At the voice of the priests who exhort their hearts to peace, they forget all hatred, discord is thrown far aside, debts are remitted, the unity of hearts is established.”

The Gothic style underwent transformations throughout the four centuries it remained the dominant style. Builders sought ever-increasing heights, from the early French Gothic cathedral of Laon (completed 1220) with its nave height of 80 feet to Chartres’ 118 feet (consecrated 1260) and Amiens and Cologne at about 140 feet (for reference, the nave of St. Peter’s is 150 feet). The style spread throughout Europe, with country-specific elements such as large crossing towers in English and Irish cathedrals and great hall churches of Germany where the nave and aisles are of the same height.

Common to all the structures is the soaring, luminous verticality of the interior space, intended to lead through and above the created world to contemplation of the world to come. Capturing the essence of the Gothic, Suger had this inscribed at the doorway to St. Denis:

Bright is the noble work; but, being nobly bright, the work Should brighten the minds, so that they may travel, through the true light To the True Light where Christ is the true door.

In what manner it be inherent in this world the golden door defines: The dull mind rises to truth through that which is material And, in seeing this light, is resurrected from its former submersion.

Like the Gothic churches of the past, the new Christ the King Chapel will certainly elevate the minds and hearts of our students, faculty, and all who enter through its doors to the one true Light. Its beauty will reflect the unseen spiritual realities that are at the center of our educational apostolate.

Pat Haggerty ’96, the project manager for the new Christ the King Chapel, has worked in architecture in Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. He graduated from the Catholic University of America with a master’s in architecture in 2000 and is a Registered Architect in Virginia. He and his wife, Sue (née Lee) ’99, live in Manassas with their six children.

Digital rendering of the interior Gothic arches of the new Christ the King Chapel.

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TOTAL NUMBER OF ALUMNI PRIESTS REACHES 91

When Christendom was founded in 1977,

it was created as an answer to the rapid secularization of Catholic universities across the United States. Its total adherence to the Magisterium would teach students the true, the good, and the beautiful instead, enabling them to go out and “restore all things in Christ” in every field.

While the college was founded specifically by laypeople to form lay apostles in the context of a Catholic liberal arts environment, the college’s passionate Catholicism has resulted in hundreds of vocations to the religious life over the past 41 years. This summer, the number of priests who call Christendom their alma mater reached 91.

“I came to Christendom already open to what I thought was a real likelihood that God was calling me to the priesthood.

I went expecting to be formed by two things: daily Mass and holy friendships. I found both,” says Fr. Nicholas Blank ’13. “It was, finally, the combination of daily prayer in the chapel and around campus and the gift of friends that encouraged me to apply to seminary. Many priests found this at their own schools, Fr. Matthew Rensch ’11 at the ordination of Fr. Nicholas Blank ’13.

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parishes, or workplaces—I found it at Christendom, and for this I will be forever grateful.”

Fr. Blank is the latest alumnus to be ordained a priest for Christendom’s home Diocese of Arlington, receiving the sacrament of holy orders on June 8. In total, there are 17 alumni priests serving across the diocese, giving back generously to the diocese that has supported Christendom all these years.

Outside of Arlington, four other alumni were ordained as priests this summer. No matter when his vocation was discerned—either before, during, or after Christendom—each experienced a deepening in their spiritual life on campus, Fr. John Killackey ’11 experienced this during his four years, before going on to a teaching career after college for two years.

Following that time, he entered the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter’s seminary. In May, he was ordained a priest, joining seven other FSSP alumni vocations—Fr. Gerard Saguto, Fr. Joseph Portzer, Fr. Thomas Longua, Fr. Chris Pelster, Fr. Daniel Heenan, Fr. Zach Akers, and Deacon David McWhirter—with a number of other alumni still in seminary formation.

Ordination of Fr. John Killackey ’11. Photo courtesy of the FSSP.

Things Classmate Fr. John Mark Solitario, O.P., ’11 was ordained just a day after Fr. Killackey. Fr. John Mark studied with the Dominican Friars of the Province of St. Joseph after graduation, and now serves in that province (which covers Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio, northward to Maine) as a Dominican priest.

For Fr. Steven Wood ’13, now a priest in the Diocese of Sacramento, his vocation was directly formed during his time at the college. Fr. Wood chose the college knowing that it would be a place where he could grow in the spiritual life and discern his vocation. During senior year, he felt a mounting pressure to figure out his next step in life, and ultimately found his vocation after spending hours in front of the Blessed Sacrament in Christ the King Chapel. With the support of family and friends, he applied to seminary in his home Diocese of Sacramento and is now, just a few years later, a priest.

“Christendom prepared me academically for seminary, and the professors shared with me a love for truth that stayed with me through seminary,” says Fr. Wood. “The spiritual life and the examples of our college chaplains also inspired me—especially the late Fr. Seamus O’Kielty. And above all, the strong community of students and focus on living out our Catholic-Christian faith in day-to-day life was an integral part of my Catholic formation at Christendom, making it easier to discern Christ’s call. For all of these I am grateful to Dr. Carroll, Dr. O’Donnell, our professors and staff, my fellow students, and all the donors and alumni who Fr. Steven Wood ’13 at his ordination in Sacramento, Calif.

(Photo: José Luis Villegas / Catholic Herald magazine)

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I am grateful to Dr. Carroll,

Dr. O’Donnell, our professors and staff, my fellow students, and all the donors and alumni who have made Christendom the Christ-centered community it is.

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have made Christendom the Christ-centered community it is.”

That same story of discerning a vocation at Christendom is the case for Fr. David Frank ’12. He came to Christendom with thoughts of the priesthood, with that discernment process nurtured in the classroom and the vibrantly Catholic atmosphere of campus. He applied to seminary shortly after earning his degree in philosophy and spent his years studying, growing in faith, and teaching students—another great passion of his.

Now, he is serving the Archdiocese of New Orleans as a priest of Jesus Christ.

For a school as relatively young and intentionally small as Christendom, it is remarkable that such a large number of alumni have entered the priesthood after graduation. It is such a noble calling that demands so much, but these alumni have eagerly sought it out, bucking the trends of the times and truly giving their all to bringing Christ to the masses.

In addition to these 91 priests, the college has helped foster close to a hundred additional vocations, including 54 sisters, three transitional deacons, five brothers, one permanent deacon, and 18 men currently in seminary.

The world may be growing more secular by the day, but more Christendom alumni are graduating each year as well, ready to bring a decidedly countercultural view to the world. With 91 alumni priests spread throughout the world, the chances of turning the cultural tide back toward Christ are higher than ever.

Fr. John Mark Solitario ’11 gives blessings after his first Mass.

(Photo: Catholic Communications of the Diocese of Springfield, Mass.)

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A Momentous Occasion Christendom’s 40th Commencement C hri s t e n d o m ’ s 4 0 t h C o m m e n c e m e n t E x e r c ise s m ar k e d

the conclusion of a momentous year for the college, one filled with a spirit of looking back with gratitude and forward with anticipation. The losses of beloved founding faculty member Dr. Kristin Burns and chaplain Fr. James O’Kielty in the spring gave the entire college community reason to reflect and give thanks for all that Christendom has given to so many. That this year also saw the graduation of Christendom’s largest class ever was a fitting finale for such a year, so focused on the fulfillment of the vision of Dr. Warren Carroll, Dr. Kristin Burns, and so many others who sacrificed for Christendom.

One hundred twenty-seven graduates—the largest in college history—were awarded degrees during commencement weekend, held May 11–13. With them for the celebration were three very special guests: author Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J., who received the college’s St. Peter Canisius Award and delivered the commencement address, Humanae Vitae expert Dr. Janet Smith, who received an honorary doctorate in humane letters, and Diocese of Arlington Bishop Michael Burbidge, who celebrated the Baccalaureate Mass.

The weekend kicked off on Friday evening with the Baccalaureate Mass, as graduates and their families gathered in Christ the King Chapel. In his homily, Bishop Burbidge encouraged the Class of 2019 to be proud of successfully completing a rigorous program of higher education and called them to have a tremendous impact in the Church and in society.

“Your diploma is a result of your hard work, your dedication, and your perseverance. When people say to you, ‘congratulations,’ they really mean it. Well done. Accept those words, but do so with a spirit of humility, knowing that all you have accomplished has been with the help and grace of God,” said Bishop Burbidge. “Your education, dear graduates—and you should be very proud of this—was not just informative but formative, preparing you not just for the rest of your life here but for eternal life.”

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Major: History Career: Officer Candidate School in the United States Coast Guard (Applied) “My time at Christendom has formed my intellect, spirituality, will, and personhood as a whole. To be well formed is an attractive thing in today’s world, where even the most fundamental factors of human society are under attack.

Therefore, I hope to change the world in my day-to-day interactions with the secular culture, particularly in the Coast Guard, by being an example of how attractive a good foundation in the liberal arts and Catholicism can be.”

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1. Fr. Robert Spitzer receives the St. Peter Canisius Award. 2. Arlington Bishop Michael F. Burbidge delivers his homily to the graduates. 3. Salutatorian Milanna Fritz. 4. Janet Smith receives an honorary doctorate. 5. Legacy graduates: 17 children of alumni in the Class of 2019.

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Following the Mass, graduates and their families joined the faculty and members of the staff at the nearby Shenandoah Valley Country Club, which overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains that surround Christendom, for cocktails and dinner. During the dinner, Smith was awarded her honorary doctorate in humane letters.

“Christendom students are in the unique position of becoming the best evangelists of all time,” said Smith in her brief remarks. “Delight in what you have received here.

This place is extremely special, and it has made such an enormous contribution to the world. You are privileged to have been a part of it.”

The next morning, the Class of 2019 made their way to Crusader Gymnasium, ready to complete their Christendom College education and begin the next stage of their mission to “restore all things in Christ.”

Over 1,500 guests packed the gymnasium, with salutatorian Milanna Fritz welcoming all present to the commencement exercises. During her address, which she dedicated to Fr. O’Kielty, she called upon her class to share the love of Christ in a world full of shattered hearts.

“No brief address could begin to convey my class’s appreciation for our education,” said Fritz. “I invite all of us to view this commencement as a moment of necessary and fruitful introspection and communication about our own process of growth, the pedagogy we have experienced, and the beauty of the love that we have been able to share. We have had the unique privilege of affecting those around us in ways that will persist for all eternity. Take advantage of every opportunity to do so, so that when we greet one another in heaven, we can thank one another for leaving our fingerprints.”

Following Fritz’s address, Dr. O’Donnell bestowed the St. Peter Canisius Award on Fr. Spitzer. During his commencement address, Fr. Spitzer spoke on his experience in Catholic education, covering everything from his time as a student to his time as the president of Gonzaga University. Pulling from his years of learning and teaching, Fr. Spitzer provided graduates with three pieces of advice as they go forth into the next stage of their lives: to look for the contributive before the comparative, to look for the

S A B R I NA MORA LE S Major: Philosophy Career: Seton Teaching Fellow in Bronx, New York “Christendom College has given me the solid foundation that I will need both intellectually and spiritually to bring Christ to the youth in the Bronx. These past four years have fashioned my character through opportunities to step out of my comfort zone, attain leadership positions, go on mission trips, and study abroad. Through these experiences I have gained countless mentors in the faculty and staff who will always be willing to give me advice through word and example, as well as lifelong friends that will continue to challenge and support me as I go out into the world to restore all things in Christ.”

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Major: Political Science and Economics Career: Associate at Saffron Ventures “Through my work, which will likely involve some Catholic nonprofit projects, I hope to introduce more young people to the richness of the Catholic tradition. In general, I hope to contribute to Saffron’s vibrant work culture. I also look forward to joining the community of Catholic young professionals in the D.C. area, serving my home parish, and becoming more involved in the conservative movement.

Christendom has equipped me well for the challenges ahead.

My peers and professors have set the gold standard for pursuing excellence, and the curriculum has trained me for the lifelong pursuit of wisdom. I could not be more grateful for my alma mater.”

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S E NI OR S P OT L I G H T good news in others before the bad news, and to live for Jesus Christ, the Way, the Truth, and the Life, every day, conditioning everything that the world says through Him. “I assure you of this: these three pledges every morning will bring you sanity, they’ll bring you salvation, they’ll bring you protection from your spiritual enemy, the devil, and they’ll bring you tremendously good relationships, tremendously good leadership potential, and, at the end of the day, a happy life—not just happy in this world, but happy in the Beatific Vision with our Lord Jesus Christ and with one another in Heaven forever. Congratulations again to you, the Class of 2019,” said Fr. Spitzer.

After the address, director of donor and alumni relations Vince Criste presented the Student Achievement Award to Thomas Ward for his dedication to the community.

Following the conferral of degrees, valedictorian Laura Cermak provided the farewell address for the Class of 2019. Cermak spoke eloquently on the value of the liberal arts education the Class of 2019 received at Christendom, ultimately calling on her classmates to give abundantly of themselves to all they encounter in their future endeavors.

“Time is precious, and our time here as students of the liberal arts has been precious. Each passing year confirms for me how profoundly blessed I have been to be called to the vocation of being a student at Christendom,” said Cermak. “As human beings, we are made for wonder, we are made for truth, we are made for communion.

The grace that I am praying for and the grace I ask you all to pray for with me is that we continue, for the rest of our lives, to grow in wisdom, in the philosophical habit of mind, and in charity. May our words and our actions testify to truth in all things. May we pursue our respective vocations each day with greater integrity. May we ultimately 7

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1. Student Body President Helena Briggs enjoys Dr. O’Donnell’s charge to the graduates. 2. Thomas Ward receives the Student Achievement Award. 3. Fun getting ready to process. 4. Sarah Ziegler embraces family. 5. Elise Townsend and Tamlyn Sheng with history professor Dr. Brendan McGuire.

6. Crusaders celebrate. 7. Nate Reyes and his family. 8. Mercy Gjolberg and her family.

H E N RY LOV E Major: Mathematics Career: FOCUS Missionary “A lot of my work and ministry at Christendom, whether SAC leadership or Shield of Roses and Mother Teresa’s Children, has been focused on providing the atmosphere for creating great relationships and trying to directly affect people and be purposeful and intentional in my actions with them. That is what I think our culture needs—people to intentionally interact with each other. My classes definitely gave me the academic foundation to be able to know and defend my faith, whether it is through the six semesters of theology and philosophy or through my study abroad in Rome at the heart of the Church. The culture of Christendom—especially through the staff and faculty—has shown me the importance of mentoring others and acting purposefully toward others.”

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SENIOR S POT LIGHT

S EN I OR S P OT L I GH T

Above: Pete Day celebrates graduation.

Below: Pete at Christendom’s 2006 Commencement with his brother, Andy.

PATRI CI A WAL S H Major: Theology Career: Graduate Studies in Marriage and Family at the International Theological Institute “I plan on engaging the culture in the spirit of joy, so as to spread hope. One of my professors recently told us he believes that this is the virtue most lacking in our society. With the joy of Christ, I want to extend this hope to the culture. Through the wellbalanced Catholic atmosphere provided by the Christendom community, I feel it has prepared me to engage in meaningful conversations with others.

The rigorous academics have prepared me for defending the faith, articulating it clearly, and have assisted in my critical thinking skills.”

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PAT R I C K P E N N E FAT H E R Major: English Language and Literature Career: IT Sales “The greatest part of my Christendom education is not found in a notebook or up on a whiteboard; it is found in each and every teacher and faculty member whom I have had the privilege of encountering each and every day. Their zeal for the faith and joy they displayed on a regular basis showed me the best way to spread the faith is to lead by example. By constantly acting the way which God commands, and doing it with great joy, people around us will be attracted to us; everyone will wonder how and why we are so happy, despite avoiding drugs, sex, and other worldly temptations. It is in this way that I intend to make a difference in the world, and it is because of the dedicated faculty and staff’s example that I feel confident I can do so.”

T H E ON E HUNDR ED T W E NT Y -SEVEN MEMBER S OF T H E C L ASS OF 2019 AR E Margaret Adams, Sophie Adams, Celina Albisu, Thomas Anderson, McCarthy Andrews, Lilia Baker, Mary Bookwalter, Garrett Boord, Helena Briggs, Emily Brown, Jonathan Buehler, Dylan Burgess, Johanna Burke, Joshua Butek, Valerie Carter, Jacob Cassidy, Clare Castellan, Augustin Cavalier, Laura Cermak, Julia Ciskanik, Clifford Clemotte, Anna Cook, Daniel Corkery, Margaret Coyne, Peter Day, Nicolas del Rosal, Michael Duca, Benjamin Dunphy, Jacqueline Durant, Norman

S E NI OR S P OT L I G H T achieve the true freedom that is the perfection of man. May we be men and women fully alive for the greater glory of God.” Closing the ceremony, college president Dr. Timothy O’Donnell delivered his charge to the graduates.

Four years of classes, conversations, games, dances, and Masses all came to a rousing finish as 127 caps flew into the air outside the gymnasium at the conclusion of the ceremonies. The 2018–19 academic year was full of reasons to look back, but also to look forward. One hundred twenty-seven new alumni are now scattered throughout the world, eager to make their impact in ways both big and small. Fr. O’Kielty gave them the further inspiration they needed to always “be Catholic.” Dr. Burns helped give them a place to study, grow, and become the men and women they are today. Now, thanks to them and countless others, the largest graduating class in school history will eagerly go out to “restore all things in Christ”—now and forever.

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GA R R E TT BOORD Major: Classical and Early Christian Studies Career: Business Administration

Dusseault III, John Echaniz, Emily Farabaugh, Nicole Feldman, Eric Firehammer, Karl Foeckler, Lisa Foos, Milanna Fritz, Mercy Gjolberg, Angela Golden, Sophie Gordon, Abigail Grande, Courtney Hahn, MaryGrace Handy, Colleen Haupt, Catherine Hepler, Clare Hepler, Bernadette Hibl, Alexandria Hill, Lillian Hynfield, Catherine Jackson, John Paul Janaro, Daniel Jost II, Margaret Kaiser, Joseph D. Kelly, Joseph P. Kelly, Nuala Kelly, Sarah Kokes, Luke Kopeck, Krista Kosar, Kevin Kuplack, Genevieve La Fave, Alexander Lancaster, Joshua Lane, Michael LaRochelle, Felice Litterio, Henry Love, Hannah Lowe, Erica Lucas, Alejandro Lupo, Timothy Marra, Benjamin Marsh, Ciara McArdle, Jean McCoy, Shane McCrum, Francisco McDonough, Charles McKenna, Mary McLaughlin, Gemma McMahon, Mary McWhirter, Patrick Meier, Victoria Merriman, Jerome Mersch, Georgie Messing, Mary Katherine Mooney, Sabrina Morales, Jeana Morgan, Jerome Norton, Stephanie Nussio, Benedict O’Brien, Sebastian O’Donnell, Rose O’Reilly, Ann Pennefather, Patrick Pennefather, Joseph Peters, Tait Pilegaard, Dominic Pileggi, Maria Pogue, Kristina Prebilic, Hannah Puncer, Theresa Raabe, Nathaniel Reyes, Meghan Santschi, Christine Schmidt, Joseph Schneider, Katarina Schwake, Luke Scrivener, Tamlyn Sheng, Vincent Smith, David Snyder, Annemarie Speer, Andrew Stauffer, John Sullivan, Elisa Townsend, Christopher Tran, Amanda Tutt, Patricia Walsh, Adriana Walter, Thomas Ward, Emily Weichert, Elise Whittaker, Seamus Wick, Eileen Williamson, Joshua Wilson, Bailey Young, Gemma Youngman, and Sarah Ziegler.

“While major events and influential people can change the world in big and obvious ways, at least as effective in changing the heart of a culture are the many small, subtle changes brought on by ordinary people making choices on how to live their day-today lives. This to me is the most important way to change the culture: when ordinary Catholics live truly Catholic lives according to Christ’s example.

My Christendom education has prepared me for this through the study of the liberal arts and through my friendships there.

After many centuries, the liberal arts are still the arts that make a man free, not free in the modern sense of being unconstrained by authority, but in an older and truer sense of being free: to live a virtuous life.”

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22 18

Years

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Hepler and McMahon Families Thrive at Christendom Eighteen. That is the combined number of children the Hepler and McMahon

families have sent to Christendom over the past 22 years. At Christendom’s 40th Commencement, each family saw its youngest, and last, child cross the stage at graduation and earn their diploma. The moment marked the end of an era and the culmination of years of mutually shared trust, passion, and confidence in the value of a Christendom education. Each family now leaves a legacy that will last for the rest of Christendom, all thanks to simple visits that both families made in 1997.

Hepler Family

McMahon Family

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For parents Wayne and Patty Hepler of Cranberry, Pa., seeing their youngest—twins Catherine and Clare—graduate marked the ninth and 10th times they had seen such a moment occur. Starting in 1997 with their daughter Anna, the Heplers have sent 10 of their children to the college. That number—10—is a new school record for the most children of the same family to graduate.

Having 10 children is unheard of in today’s world, let alone having that number graduate from the same college.

Catholic families are different, however, not just in size but in desire for a faithful education for their children. That desire is what drew the Heplers and their children to Christendom in the first place.

The 10 Hepler alumni have each gone on to different careers following graduation. From carpentry to construction, from business management to the political realm, they are working in jobs that are spread across the United States. And yet, no matter where they are, they are united by the education they received at Christendom that changed their lives and the legacy of their entire family, forever.

“Being familiar with Christendom since a child, visiting the campus for graduations and seeing and listening to siblings about how the college has changed and developed in the past 20 years has been a unique experience,” says Clare Hepler. “I’ve had input and advice from my siblings about classes, professors, campus life, and more. It has also given us common ground, something we can all relate to and talk about. Being part of a large family that went to Christendom has been a great experience.”

Clare’s twin, Catherine, agrees, and believes that the college’s authentic Catholicism and liberal arts education has transformed her family for the better.

“Our family is all in on Christendom because of the authentic Catholic education one receives, and because Christendom provides a good environment for one to grow intellectually and spiritually as a young Catholic and discern one’s vocation,” says Catherine.

The Heplers have become benefactors of the college over the years as well, ensuring that the school that educated 10 of their children continues on for generations to come. That level of confidence and trust in an educational institution is hard to find. As Wayne and Patty watched their twins cross the stage, they knew that their confidence and trust had truly paid off in the end.

Julie (M

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Le Kate (McMahon)

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1997 to 2019—an incredible span of years, and an incredible span of graduates. That year, 1997, was significant for the McMahon family, as well. Friends of Chris and Patricia had a daughter attend the college in 1997, and the McMahons decided to make a visit to the college for the first time that year. After first hearing about the school in the 1980s, it was exciting to finally set foot on the campus—especially with their children quickly becoming college-aged.

Living in Binghamton, N.Y., they sent their first child, Kate, to the school in 1998, and several years later the McMahons moved to Front Royal and built a house across the street from the college, making them feel like a true part of the Christendom community.

As child after child chose Christendom and walked across the street to study, learn, and grow, their appreciation for the college only deepened.

“Our children chose Christendom with our enthusiastic approval, because of the balance we found there—a balance between the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical,” says Chris McMahon. “From the Sacramental life, to great peers, to the professors and staff, we were so thrilled.”

After that visit in 1997, could the McMahon’s have envisioned eight of their children graduating from the college? Gemma, their youngest, certainly could not at the time—she was not even born yet. But now, after graduating from Christendom, she sees why it was so important for her family to be so intimately tied to the school.

“My parents asked each of us to seriously consider Christendom for furthering our education,” Gemma says. “As the eighth child to attend Christendom, the decision was not hard, although I will say I was not just following my siblings’ footsteps—it was very much my own decision. I had grown up seeing the good influence Christendom had on my siblings and the friendships they had formed. I am proud to be part of

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this community of thriving Catholic individuals, ready to bring Christ to those we encounter throughout our lives.”

With eight children now graduated from Christendom, the McMahons are finished sending children to college, just like the Heplers. That realization is a bittersweet one, but Chris and Patricia are grateful for all that Christendom has given to their family.

“My heart is filled with joy, peace, and especially gratitude to God, to the faculty and staff, and also to the board members for all their efforts,” says Chris.

For over two decades—more than half of the history of the college—Christendom featured a member of the Hepler and McMahon families as part of the student body. And although these two great Christendom families have no more children to send to the college, their grandchildren will continue the legacy that began in 1997.

One of Wayne and Patty Hepler’s grandchildren, Eleanor Kolesar, just finished her sophomore year, while another, Margaret, will be a member of this year’s incoming freshman class.

“I have often thought of it through the perspective of my parents, that two people doing their best to raise their children and give them the best education possible, have been able to make an immense impact on the Christendom community, but also countless other people through their many kids,” concludes Gemma. “Since 1998 we have had at least one McMahon at school. For the first time this fall, in 21 years, there won’t be any McMahons at Christendom. In a word, that is simply unique. But I think that it points to the success of a Christendom education. To be part of a ‘Christendom family’ has been for me something to be proud of, and to be the last, or the ‘end of an era’ has been a unique privilege. And I’m blessed to have had the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of my siblings and attend such an amazing school.”

To be part of a ‘Christendom family’ has been for me something to be proud of, and to be the last, or the ‘end of an era’ has been a unique privilege. And I’m blessed to have had the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of my siblings and attend such an amazing school.

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In the Classroom HIGHLIGHTING A COURSE FROM OUR RICH CURRICULUM MATH 102: ELEMENTARY NUMBER THEORY

BY DOUGLAS J. DAILEY, PH.D.

Dr. Dailey meets with students during office hours.

One of the most common misconceptions

about mathematics is that it is nothing but a long tedium of “number crunching” and esoteric calculations that only become more difficult as one progresses through the subject. Unfortunately, at many universities, general education math courses like College Algebra or Precalculus serve only to support this stereotype, and students are often left with little desire to know more about the mathematics they have learned.

While calculations do have their place in mathematics, the true business of the mathematician is to prove theorems, statements of mathematical fact, using principles of logic. In Math 102: Elementary Number Theory, we use logic to prove properties about numbers, specifically, the natural numbers and integers. Though seemingly a very simple object to study, the integers and their properties have inspired some of the most simply stated, yet hitherto unsolved, problems in mathematics.

Interested readers of this column should look up Goldbach’s Conjecture for a good example of such a problem.

Our focus in Math 102, however, is on some of the solvable problems of number theory. The class begins by introducing the fundamentals of mathematical logic. Particular focus is given to different methods of proof, in particular direct proofs and proofs by contradiction. Armed with logic, we begin to study properties of prime numbers, and we prove the classic theorem that there exist infinitely many prime numbers. Special attention is paid to the Division and Euclidean Algorithms, which become effective tools when we introduce a new type of arithmetic called modular, or clock, arithmetic. We end the class with a discussion of cryptography by showing how the modular arithmetic we have learned can facilitate different forms of encryption and decryption.

After taking the course, it is our hope that students will continue to employ logical, well-ordered thought, which is essential not only in mathematics, but also across all disciplines at the college.

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Generosity

that

Transforms

young lives

Sponsor a Student Program Inspires Mentorship and Formation Through the college’s Sponsor a Student program, generous benefactors are assisting more students than ever to pursue a Christendom College education. Thanks to their benefactors’ support, Christendom students are living out their education and bringing formation in Christ beyond the classroom, into the dorms, and out into the world.

By the generosity of an anonymous benefactor, Rebecca Byrne ’20 came to Christendom determined to learn all she could from the many student formation and development opportunities offered at the college.

Growing up in a faithful Catholic parish in Northern Virginia, Byrne knew that Christendom College was one of the few institutions that would provide her with a rigorous and authentically Catholic education. An additional selling point for her was knowing Christendom’s dedication to forming the whole person.

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Byrne experienced Christendom’s dedication to formation in a very real way over her past three years at the college, especially through her work with student life as a resident assistant (RA).

“This role has been fundamental in changing my approach to everything in life, be it academic, personal, or spiritual,” shares Byrne. “It’s challenged me to always think critically about how I speak and how I act, and it’s stopped me from simply coasting through life in my comfort zone.”

Choosing to double major in political science and theology, and playing on the varsity softball team, Byrne stays heavily involved with campus life. She shares, however, that being an RA is providing the strongest personal formation opportunity out of all her campus experiences. Excelling in her position, Byrne has been offered the leadership position of head RA for women, which she will begin in the fall semester.

“I came to Christendom to focus on being a whole person,” Byrne says. “I don’t want to leave with just a degree and

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I can’t thank my benefactor enough for helping me to grow as an authentic Catholic woman and become so strong in my faith. If I hadn’t attended Christendom, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to help build this incredible community and share it with the world after I graduate.

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Rebecca Byrne ’20

nothing else. I want to leave Christendom as a person who has participated in athletics, community building events, student formation, and the rich spiritual life on campus. That’s why I love this community. It teaches us not only how to be a student, but how to live excellently outside of college.”

In recent years, the student life department has increased services for both male and female students, with leaders like Byrne inspiring enthusiasm and involvement. At the Well, a fellowship series for the women of campus, provides discussion of the challenges Catholic women face today. Similarly, Into the Deep is a series for the men of campus, addressing issues such as authentic Catholic manhood. The Strongholds program

flourished this year with separate small groups, led by a faculty or staff mentor, dedicated to strengthening community, accountability, and personal faith among students.

Byrne shares that participating in formation initiatives as an RA, as well as the many mentorship opportunities they’ve provided, has helped her both give and receive the most from her Christendom experience.

“As head RA, I will get to be the servant of the servants,” reflects Byrne. “I can give of myself to everyone around me for the sake of the community and for the sake of God. Forming a strong community provides the foundation for everything else we do here at Christendom, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”

Rebecca Byrne is one of Christendom’s many students benefiting from the Sponsor a Student Program, which has facilitated her education. In part because of Christendom College’s rejection of federal funds, there is an average shortfall of $5,000 per student each year. The college and its students rely on the generosity of its benefactors through the Sponsor a Student program to help bridge this gap so that students like Byrne can attend and thrive at Christendom.

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{c hristendom.edu/pictures} 1. Spring Musical performance: Anything Goes.

2. In the classroom: Human Anatomy & Physiology.

3. Christendom’s Chamber Orchestra performs at its spring concert.

4. Senior Maggie Adams winds up for a pitch.

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5. Abby Wilkinson ’17 of the James Wilson Institute returns to give students insights into working for D.C. thinktanks as part of the college’s Life on Tap Series.

6. Spring morning hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

7. Freshman Frank Scarchilli rounds second on his way to third.

8. Junior Anthony Palumbo throws a pitch under the lights at Bing Crosby Stadium.

9. 2019 Crusader Baseball.

10. 2019 Crusader Rugby.

11. 2019 Lady Crusader Softball.

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12. Study time in the beautiful St. John the Evangelist Library.

13. Senior Tricia Walsh defends her thesis.

14. In the classroom with philosophy professor Dr. Douglas Flippen.

15. Semester in Rome: Thriving on a day trip to the Tyrrhenian seacoast.

16. Semester in Rome: Exploring the medieval city of Assisi.

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17. Semester in Rome: Hitting the books over the Roman skyline at their home in Rome, Residence Balduina.

PHOTOS UPDATED WEEKLY ON FLICKR

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@christendomcollege SUMMER 2019

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The Holy Through the Eyes of

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Land a Medievalist

BY DR. BRENDAN McGUIRE

The annual February downpours—

torrential rains that transform Galilee into a verdant agricultural paradise during the winter growing season—streaked across the windshield of my tiny Nissan as I sped north on Israel’s ultramodern Highway 6 at the crack of dawn.

To my right, across the separation barrier, the impoverished and densely populated Palestinian cities of Qalqilyah and Tulkarm passed by close enough to touch, their minarets still glowing green in the early morning half-light, a different world.

My destination that morning was hardly a conventional one for a Christian pilgrim to the Holy Land: I was headed north to the Golan Heights, to study one of the great monuments of Islamic military architecture, constructed by the Ayyubid dynasty during the twilight of the crusader kingdom. Originally built to protect Damascus from crusader incursions, the castle gradually crumbled to a ruin once that threat had lapsed, and it now bears the fanciful nickname “Nimrod’s Fortress,” which was given to it by the Syrian Druze who long pastured their flocks in its shadow. Yet it still cuts a stunning figure, an immense stone fortress sprawling across a ridge more than 2,000 feet above the fertile Israeli countryside to the west.

The Holy Land is dotted with such monuments, both Islamic and Christian. In their own way, they bear eloquent testimony to the sacredness of the land, and to the religious zeal that animated those engaged in the great medieval struggle for its possession. Thanks to the generosity of Shane Cotter and Dianna Herrmann, who provided a grant to support the research activities of Christendom’s faculty, I was able to spend some field time in the Middle East this past semester, and although the time was necessarily brief, it was nevertheless extremely fruitful.

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Rapid field work of this sort can best be conceived as the sacrifice of years, not to mention exposure to serious hardships acquisition of raw material for study—photographs, measureand dangers, and frequently the loss of one’s entire fortune (or ments, etc.—which one brings back and then spends months life). It was not religious tourism but penance—the act of penor years mining with complementary research in libraries and ance par excellence for a medieval knight—and it was popular archives. As a medieval historian, I had a goal of gaining access enough among elites that in the ninth century Charlemagne felt to as many crusader-era ruins and active archaeological sites compelled to fund the expansion of the pilgrims’ hostel, which as I could in the few days I was there. Flying back through had originally been built with financing from Pope Gregory the Istanbul, I also knew I would have the chance to revisit an old Great two centuries earlier. Although the city was now deep in haunt: the Rose Mosque (Gül Camii), which I first began to Islamic territory, Christian pilgrims from Europe were numerstudy back in 2013. ous enough that it drove the “mad” Fatimid caliph, Al-Hakim, The exploration of the Nimrod fortress on that rainy mornto destroy the pilgrims’ hostel and the Church of the Holy ing began the second full day of an eight-day odyssey through Sepulchre completely in the early 11th century. After a brief the Middle East, in which I was privileged to be able to conduct hiatus, the stream of pilgrims from the West picked up again, both professional research and spiritual pilgrimage. Two nights drawn to the now-ruined site of Our Lord’s passion; this was earlier, I had arrived at Ben Gurion Airport having slept two even remarked upon positively by the Greek Orthodox Patriarch or three hours out of the previous of Antioch during the ecclesiastical 36, gotten behind the wheel of a upheavals of 1054. The great military Although Jerusalem retains its rental car, and driven to the coastal campaigns of the crusade era, from metropolis of Tel Aviv, where I parked 1095 onward, were founded in this uniquely sacred status in the hearts around midnight in a seaside surface tradition of penitential pilgrimage. of modern Christians (as well as Jews lot guarded by a bearded Russian imThus, as I stood under the great dome and Muslims), it is hard to convey to migrant. Home base for the week was of the current Church of the Holy a windowless hotel room (affordable), Sepulchre, I could not help but feel modern people how utterly central the where I returned every night to clear how little I had endured and how Holy City was to the religious imaginamy camera’s memory card, record little I had sacrificed. No words could observations, and recharge batterpossibly do justice to the experience tion of medieval Catholics. ies. Before heading up to the Golan of squeezing into the small shrine and Heights, or doing anything researchseeing with one’s own eyes the place related, however, I knew that I had to spend my first full day in from which Christ rose—non est hic; ecce locus ubi posuerunt the country seeking the holiest of all cities, Jerusalem. It was eum—He is not here. See the place where they laid him. an odd feeling the following morning, as the underpowered car Medieval men and women certainly took the psalmist at struggled to climb the Judean foothills, to reflect on the fact that his word that “the Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the modern Israeli highway from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem roughly the dwelling places of Jacob” (Ps. 87:2). And yet, it would be a follows the Roman road from the coast, along which Christian mistake to imagine the medieval crusader states (1099–1291) as pilgrims of old would have traveled. some sort of modern colonial project; demographically, western Although Jerusalem retains its uniquely sacred status in the Christians always remained a small minority within their own hearts of modern Christians (as well as Jews and Muslims), it is kingdom. Hence the need to construct the monstrous fortifihard to convey to modern people how utterly central the Holy cations, castles, and city walls that provide so much fodder for City was to the religious imagination of medieval Catholics. archaeological research in modern times. The Israeli government Pilgrimage to Jerusalem was practiced by western Christians has been generous and extremely professional in its approach continually from the fourth century onward, even after the city to funding and supervising the excavation of crusader sites was conquered by the caliph Umar ibn Khattab in 636. A modover the years, and yet much remains to be discovered. Thus, ern pilgrim might have to take a week off work or spend some I found myself that rainy second morning, the day after standdiscretionary income to travel to Jerusalem, but for medieval ing in our Lord’s tomb, driving to the Syrian border to find the men and women the trip was truly life-altering. It involved the famed 13th-century “Nimrod’s Fortress.” After documenting

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everything I could, I headed south to the Sea of Galilee, and visited the crusader castle at Tiberias, where Israeli archaeologists have recently made exciting discoveries.

The ensuing days were a frantic attempt to make the most of the opportunity. Fighting my way through Tel Aviv traffic each morning, and rapidly learning how to drive like a local, I explored the crusader ruins at Acre, Caesarea, and Ashkelon.

Caesarea proved a fascinating case; the crusader market there is an active archaeological dig site to which I was able to gain access. It was incredible to explore the half-excavated streets and houses, surrounded by stones and artifacts shrink-wrapped on wooden pallets, waiting for removal to the lab. In Ashkelon, the entire old city is currently a seaside national park, studded with unattended medieval ruins. I paid special attention to the ruins of churches in both Caesarea and Ashkelon; many of them remain unidentified and merit further archival research.

Finally, on my last full day, I headed back to Jerusalem, received the sacraments, found a taxi ride across the checkpoint to the Palestinian territories to visit Bethlehem, and made my way back to Tel Aviv.

The next morning, I had some difficulty convincing Israeli authorities that I wasn’t trafficking antiquities to Turkey, but they eventually let me fly out to Istanbul. Coming back to Istanbul after all these years felt oddly like a homecoming, although it gave me pause to see the extent to which the Erdogan regime’s “restoration” projects continue to dismantle Byzantine ruins.

Ultimately, it is with deep gratitude to my benefactors that I reflect on this research trip. As with all professors at Christendom, my primary vocation is to serve my students, and it would be impossible to serve them in the way that they deserve without striving to remain an active scholar in my professional field.

It will take some time to unpack all that I documented, and I cannot possibly do justice to the emotional impact of the sacred sites, but I know that I will always see two things in my mind’s eye: first, Jerusalem, in which the Lord delighted, a symbol of God’s enduring fidelity, and second, Ashkelon, with its medieval walls tumbled down and tossed about above the sparkling Mediterranean, a compelling and beautiful Ozymandias.

PHOTOGRAPHS TAKEN BY DR. McGUIRE Crusader Castle at Acre

Golan Heights

Ruins in Caesarea

Dr. Brendan McGuire specializes in the study of medieval Christianity; his scholarly research has focused on a variety of issues related to the Church in late antiquity and the Middle Ages. Dr. McGuire received his Ph.D. from St. Louis University, and has been a member of Christendom’s history faculty since 2007.

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Above: Junior Will Arnold flies down the field in a national tournament game against the Claremont Colleges.

Right: Crusaders sing “Non Nobis Domine� at the conclusion of every game.

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The

Brotherhood How the 2018–19 Crusaders Became One of the Most Dominant Teams in Christendom Sports History The story of the Christendom Crusaders’

2018–19 rugby season is a story of numbers: the first No. 1 ranking in school history, for any sport; two National Championship berths; six all-stars. Behind these numbers is another story as well—one of perseverance, faith, and of the brotherhood that turned 36 men into one of the most dominant sports teams in school history.

When the season started last fall, there were already high expectations for the Crusader rugby team. After an overtime National Championship win in 2017, the first 15s National Championship run, and the second consecutive 7s National Championship appearance in 2018, the Crusaders were automatically expected to perform at least as well as those two teams.

The 2018–19 team featured continuity from past years on day

one of the new season but also had many fresh faces—several of whom had never played a game of rugby in their lives. After two consecutive years of National Championship runs, the question arose: could this team continue that streak?

A 62-0 rout of the University of Maryland Baltimore County in the first conference game of the season provided the answer.

What came next? A 24-0 defeat of Virginia Commonwealth University, a 53-38 win over Washington & Lee, a 71-5 win over Navy—the Crusaders rolled over their regular season competition again and again, as the new players quickly meshed with the old. With each win, hopes began to rise higher for a team with already lofty expectations.

The 11 senior members of the team, along with junior Tommy Audino and others, provided the foundation and

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leadership needed to quickly bring the younger up to speed, resulting in this incredible run — a run that was only just getting started. With the regular season behind them, tournament play began. The Crusaders blew through Duke University and James Madison University in the Cardinals Conference Championship, earning them a spot at redemption in the National Small College Rugby Organization (NSCRO) 15s National Championship playoffs after an early exit the year before.

Their next feat was their greatest yet of an already impressive season. Playing in their first NSCRO 15s Regional Championship, the Crusaders defeated Loyola Maryland 23-7 in the first round, earning them a trip to the final against a fellow Catholic school, the Catholic University of America. In mud-drenched Raleigh, North Carolina, the Crusaders fought hard, holding off the Cardinals at every turn, eventually winning the game 43-24. The win meant the Mid-Atlantic South Region Championship trophy, but also another first for the team: a No. 1 in the nation ranking from NSCRO, further testament to this rugby team being one of the best ever fielded by Christendom.

The win meant a pause to 15s play until late April, when the National Championship would be held. In the meantime, the Crusaders turned to another goal: earning a third straight trip to the NSCRO 7s National Championship in Philadelphia.

At the end of March, the Crusaders traveled to Washington & Lee University for the W & L Generals 7s Qualifier tournament and made what can only be described as a bold statement to the rest of the NSCRO rugby world. In five games, the Crusaders played UNC Greensboro, Duke University, Roanoke College, Duke again, and Susquehanna College — all dominant teams.

The Crusaders outscored every opponent, posting a cumulative 154-19 in those five games, with a significant challenge coming in the final against Susquehanna, which ended in a 19-14

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victory for Christendom. Another year, another trip to the 7s National Championship.

At the end of April, the Crusaders began their next battle, this time in Albany, New York, with the prize of the first 15s National Championship in school history in sight. Junior Tommy Audino, who was studying in Rome for the semester, was so eager to help his team win that he flew back to the States for the game! While the Crusaders rolled through No. 2 ranked Endicott College 60-17, they came up short against the Claremont Colleges. This opponent, 2018’s 15s National Champions, proved to be the first true challenge for Christendom in 2018–19. Despite a defeat, the season still marked the best performance for a Christendom 15s team in program history—something to be celebrated and remembered for the rest of college history. Even better, there was still more to be written about the 2018–19 season.

Following commencement, the newly graduated seniors gathered together one last time with the rest of the team for the NSCRO 7s National Championship in Philadelphia on June 1–2—Christendom’s third straight appearance. The competition proved to be a chance for the seniors to look back with gratitude as well. When Christendom won the National Championship in 2017 in its first-ever appearance, the seniors were only sophomores, contributing to the crowning achievement of the college’s rugby program. Now, they were playing in their final games ever as Crusaders, part of a program considered to be one of the finest in the country.

Each left it all on the field in the games, beginning with a defeat of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in pool play. They fought the University of Denver to a tie and finally fell to the Claremont Colleges—their archrival—in the final game yet again. Thanks to points differential, Christendom still

“

The Crusaders came together in a special way in 2018–19, with the graduating seniors passing on all they knew to the next generation, while playing some of the best rugby of their collegiate careers at the same time. made it into the semifinal round—their third straight trip to the semis, making them the only semifinalist team in contention to do so three straight years.

With the sun blazing on Sunday morning, Christendom faced off against New Mexico Highlands University, the #1 seed from their pool. Christendom gave their all, but the speed of the Vatos proved to be too much for the Crusaders. They fell 29-0, with New Mexico going on to win the National Championship later that afternoon.

Christendom finished their second National Championship of the 2018–19 season with 4th place. Despite this end result, the Crusaders still had much to be proud of from their season.

2018–19 truly was a story of numbers: a No. 1 ranking, two National Championship berths, a 15s Cardinals Conference Championship, and a 15s Region 2 Championship. In addition, the team fielded six NSCRO All-Stars, three first team All-Conference players, three second team All-Conference players, seven 15s All-Championship players, and one 15s All-Star

”

Championship players in 2018–19. All impressive numbers, but truly only half of the story.

The Crusaders came together in a special way in 2018-19, with the graduating seniors passing on all they knew to the next generation, while playing some of the best rugby of their collegiate careers at the same time. With the end of this season, the Crusaders said goodbye to players who had been with the team since the first National Championship win, along with others. A chapter of the Crusader legacy truly has ended, but the next is ready to begin.

When next season begins, new players will don the blueand-white uniforms of the Crusaders for the first time, with new seniors set to provide leadership and an example to follow. No matter who wears the Crusader colors in 2019–20, the legacy of the 2018–19 team—and all the teams before it—will carry on, with this brotherhood of athletes continuing to give their all “for the love of the game and the glory of God.”

A NOTE OF COMPLIMENT While on the road for the National Tournament in New York, the rugby team attended Mass at the local parish and inspired this kind note.

To the president, faculty, and coaching staff, I am writing to commend you on the fine young men who are on your rugby team! On April 26, my husband and I attended the Mass at Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Albany, N.Y., introducing the relic of St. John Vianney to the faithful. It seems that the entire Crusaders rugby team was in attendance at this Mass. These young men were neatly and appropriately dressed and conducted themselves respectfully. Their method of receiving the Eucharist was incredibly reverential! After the Mass, I spoke with one of the young men and asked him where the team was from. He was most courteous and, smiling with pride, told me “Christendom College.”

We chatted a bit and I found out that the boys were in Albany for a tournament. (Gosh, I hope they won!) I was so impressed by all of the boys that I felt I had to write to you! You must be doing a great job there. Well, congratulations on wonderful students!

Sincerely, Rita Mathsen

SUMMER 2019

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Family Affair The Carroll Fund Receives $240,000 on Second Giving Day On April 30, Christendom alumni,

students, faculty, parents, and grandparents came together to support The Carroll Fund on the college’s second annual Giving Day, with more than $240,000 being raised from 917 members of the community—a tremendous success.

Giving Day rallied many alumni from all four decades of college history to support their alma mater in this way for the second year in a row. The day was also marked by a great surge in support from parents and current seniors, who played an important part helping to raise funds to support the most crucial needs of current students.

High levels of alumni support serve as indicators of college success to foundations and other philanthropic

institutions. Alumni support sends a clear message about the value of Christendom’s Catholic education and formation from the perspective of those who experienced it. As of June 1, the percentage of alumni who have donated to the college this fiscal year was at an all-time high of 39%.

This high level of giving places Christendom in the top tier of colleges in the nation in this regard.

Thanks to support from the entire Christendom family, the college is now better equipped with the resources necessary to continue giving students the support they need in the classroom, in the chapel, and through all campus life to grow into the great men and women God intends them to become.

PARTICIPATION: A PATH OF SUCCESS FIRST-TIME GIVERS

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43 Alumni 36 Parents 110 Students 11 Other

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NEW TO GIVING DAY

530

175 Alumni 222 Parents 110 Students 23 Other

ALUMNI DONATING TO 2018 PLEDGES

315

Additional Gifts 88 One-time Gifts 36 Pledges

ALUMNI 539 DONORS $128,953 RAISED

CRUSADER FAMILY TREE OF GIVING

PARENTS 241 DONORS $93,300 RAISED

OTHERS 27 DONORS $16,777 RAISED

STUDENTS 110 DONORS $5,783 RAISED

DONOR GOAL EXCEEDED: 525 917 TOTAL RAISED: $244,813

PLEDGES

277

177 Alumni 36 Parents 63 Students 1 Other

ONE-TIME GIFTS

639

361 Alumni 205 Parents 47 Students 26 Other

THANK YOU! SUMMER 2019

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Send your submissions to classmates@c hristendom.edu.

CLASSMATES YO U R PA P E R & I N K A L U M N I S O C I A L N E T WO R K

1980s Scott ’85 and Michelle ’89 (née Oubre) Peters are proud of their son, Joe Peters, who graduated from Christendom this year. 1

1990s Timothy and Winifred ’96 Eh­ linger enjoyed watching their sons Ignatius (15) and Marcellus (14) Ehlinger participate in the 28th National Challenger Jamboree in Norfolk, Va., May 11, 2019.

Kate Palladino ’97 performed as part of the chorus in her second full-length show, Yeomen of the Guard, with the Savoy Company in Philadelphia on May 17 and 18

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to a packed theater. She is looking forward to a repeat performance in the June shows at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pa.

2000s After many years away from art, Alicia (née Podlinsek) Laxton ’01 recently began a small Etsy shop focusing on names and their traditional meanings, and accompanying symbols and pictures. She also hand-letters quotes, and is happy to take commissions for new names and quotes. Search the Etsy shop by typing in “WhatsinanameByAlicia” or follow her store by the same name on Instagram. 2 Mike and Bunny (née Martell) ’04 Cerny took a trip to San Diego

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in late February and got to visit Rob and Allana (née Marchand) ’04 Hoops while there. It was also the first time since 2005 that Bunny and Allana (onetime Christendom roommates) got to see each other.

The Cernys are expecting baby number nine in November. 3 Mary Bergida ’07 now resides in the Seattle area where she teaches courses with the University of Puget Sound’s English department. Additionally, Mary founded her own business as a developmental editor and writing coach for aspiring fiction and memoir authors. For more details, see marybergidadeluca.com Michael ’07 and Beth (née Fettes) ’09 Collins welcomed baby number four last fall, William Richard. He joins older siblings Annie, Hugh, and Benjamin. 4

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2010s On May 9, 2019, Zachary and Rebekah (née Skiba) Miller ’11 welcomed their son, James Michael, into the world. 5 Faith Leopold ’14 is happy to share that she will celebrate her 2-year anniversary as the director of institutional advancement with Regina Coeli Academy in Philadelphia. Since she took the role in 2017, Regina Coeli’s enrollment has increased by 45%. RCA is a Classical Academy for Pre-K through grade 8.

Joshua and Kelly (née Lawyer) ’13 Cabana welcomed their first child, Elizabeth Kay, on Thursday, May 2. Kelly will also be starting a new job in August as the Latin

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teacher for Trinity Christian School in Fairfax, Va. 6 Peter McShurley ’14 was ordained a deacon on June 1 at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington.

Julie Wells ’15 has recently illustrated her third children’s book and accepted an illustration position with Orange Hat Publishing.

Her newest book, Lightning Bug Lantern, is written by Andrea Skuta and can be ordered on Amazon.

On June 1, 2019, Fr. David Frank ’12 was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of New Orleans at the Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis King of France in New Orleans, La.,

by Archbishop Gregory Aymond.

Several Christendom alumni were in attendance, including Mary Becher ’12, Chris and Liz (née Sartor) Foeckler ’12, Mary Frank ’13, Tim and Frances (née Dewey) Ginski ’12, Eryn Landry ’12, Jordan and Lauren (née Enk) Mann ’14, and Elise Nodar ’13.

The chasuble for Fr. Frank’s first Mass of Thanksgiving was made by classmate Sequoia Sierra ’12.

Her workshop, The Liturgical Co., can be found at theliturgicalco.

com. Drop him a line at fr.david. frank@gmail.com if you will be in the New Orleans area this summer or anytime.

Paul and Erin (née Clark) Haisl­maier ’12 welcomed their second son, Jacob Henry, on January 17. Jack and his big brother Connor (2) are quickly becoming best buds. 7 Adam ’13 (MA) and Lizzie (née Crnkovich) ’12 Richard welcomed into the world their third child (and second son), Remy Alexander Constantine on May 22. 8 Patrick Freeman ’13 and Elise Litterio ’16 are engaged to be married in August 2019. 9 Sr. Caroline Caritas (Kelsey Ingold) ’14 sat at the college’s table with Dr. and Mrs. O’Donnell at the Sisters of Life Gala in New York. 10 Besides obtaining a J.D. from Georgetown Law, Rebecca Deu­ cher ’14 recently received the more thrilling title of “aunt.” She will be clerking in the Eastern District of Virginia while anticipating the arrival of her first nephew/niece in November. 15 Veronica Stanton ’15 is currently living in Nashville, Tenn.,

and just released her debut EP, 827 Miles. She recorded it with Nashville producer Dan Knobler. There are five songs on the EP, which she wrote alone, and the record was tracked live in one day. One song, “Rome,” has been featured on Nashville’s independent radio station Lightning 100. She has been playing shows in Nashville to promote the release and has a hometown show in Philly booked at World Café Live in August. 17 Francisco Whittaker ’17 received his Master’s in Business Administration from Franciscan University. He currently works in operations and as a partner for EcoScan, an information service company started early this year. 11 Br. Paul (JJ) Adams, O.S.B., ’17 took Simple Temporary Vows on March 21, 2019. 12 Luke Romanchuk ’18 and Genna Ellefson were married on May 18 at Christendom’s Christ the King Chapel.

On February 16, Emily Bailey ’18 and Jacob DeVos ’18 were married at Christendom College in the Chapel of Christ the King. On May 18, Jacob graduated from the Busch

School of Business at the Catholic University of America with an M.S. in business analysis. 13 Bill Wiegand ’18 and Kather­ ine Williams ’18 got engaged on March 17, 2019. 16 Kieran O’Donnell ’18 married Cynthia Forrester on January 5, 2019. 14 14

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COME JOIN THE CLASSES OF 2009, 1999, AND 1989 AS THEY CELEBRATE THEIR 10TH, 20TH AND 30TH ANNIVERSARIES! Friday Night: quodlibet! Saturday afternoon: Family Fun Day. Saturday evening: Reunions and General Alumni Reception. Stay tuned for more info via email, Facebook, and outreach from class reps!

CHRISTENDOMALUMNI.COM/HOMECOMING

SUMMER 2019

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Omnia in Christo

Taken from the college’s motto “Instaurare Omnia in Christo,” this section features an essay or excerpt from a recent paper or talk by one of Christendom’s distinguished faculty.

Cities of the D ead

BY DR. CHRISTOPHER SHANNON

“They told me to take a street- Quarter, such as the balconies, courtyards, car named Desire, and then transfer to one called Cemeteries . . .”

Tennessee Williams no doubt wrote these words to capture the general modernist despair that animates so much of his drama.

Understood in the geographic context of his adopted home of New Orleans, the statement takes on a different meaning, rooted in the specificities of the French Catholic culture of the northern Caribbean. The destination of “Cemeteries” refers to a cluster of graveyards that once marked the northern terminus of the city but continues to signal one of New Orleans’ most distinct architectural traditions: the above-ground, ornately decorated mausoleums scattered throughout the city. An antidote to Williams’ modernist despair, these so-called “cities of the dead” continue to affirm the Catholic belief in the intimate relation between life and death and the enduring hope in the resurrection.

I was drawn to the graveyards of New Orleans in the course of my research for a larger project on the history of Catholicism in North America. This research has been supported by the Knights of Columbus and will result in a book-length study to accompany a permanent exhibit on North American Catholicism to be housed at the St. John Paul II Shrine in Washington, D.C. My research has reminded me that Catholic culture is more than a short list of good books. It is a whole way of life in which practice often precedes and always sustains belief. The cemeteries of New Orleans stand as a model of that practice.

In January of this year, I visited the oldest surviving cemetery in the city, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. The French explorer Jean Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville founded New Orleans in 1718, naming the city after Phillipe II, Duke of Orleans and regent for Louis XV, but placing it under the spiritual patronage of France’s saintly king, Louis IX. The current St. Louis Cathedral stands on the site where Bienville built the first church structure in the original settlement, now known as the Vieux Carré, or The French Quarter. Still, most of the architecture associated with the French 40

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and wrought iron railings of so many of its buildings, owes more to the influence of the Spanish, who ruled the city from 1763 to 1803.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is no exception to the rule, though it reflects local necessity as much as Old World burial practices. Much of the original French settlement was, and remains, under sea level. With flooding from the Mississippi River an annual occurrence, the early settlers buried their dead on the highest ground available, the natural silt levee that formed on the banks of the river; still, this relatively higher elevation was no match for the floodwaters, which sent bodies floating down the streets of the early settlement. 1788 was a particularly deadly year: flood, epidemic, and a major fire that destroyed most of the original settlement (with the notable exception of the Ursuline Convent). As bodies once again flowed through the streets, the Spanish decided to build a new cemetery, several blocks north of the cathedral, just outside the city limits, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.

St. Louis Cemetery #1

These tombs have also served as gathering The above-ground vaults of St. Louis Cemetery sites for family celebrations, most especially No. 1 combine practicality with a sense of around the feast of All Saints. A season more beauty. Most of the vaults allow for multiple than a day, All Saints Day was traditionreuse, with decomposed remains pushed to the ally preceded by weeks of preparation, side or back to make room for new occupants. with families cleaning and decorating their Walled vaults—located, as their name sug- tombs for the feast day. In its heyday, All gests, in the walls enclosing the cemetery— Saints rivaled Mardi Gras for festivity, a less have from earliest days often been rented by macabre version of the Día de los Muertos those who cannot afford a permanent family celebrated with continued vitality by Mexican tomb. Still, family tombs use a similar practice and Mexican-American Catholics. To this day, of body rotation: a year and a day follow- however, priests in New Orleans continue to ing a death, the remains are removed and lead rosary processions through the great placed in a chamber in the foundation known cemeteries of the city, blessing the graves of as a “caveau,” where they decompose more the dead and offering prayers for the repose quickly. Families custom-design these tombs, of their souls. The “cities of the dead” reflect with aesthetic beauty showing respect for a Catholic tradition of rootedness in place that one’s ancestors while also providing an arena offers an alternative to the Anglo-Protestant of competition with rival families. Continuity frontier ethos that has shaped so much of across generations has been assisted by a Loui- non-Catholic American culture. siana law known as “forced heirship,” a legacy of French and Spanish civil law that A graduate of Yale, Christopher Shannon, Ph.D., is a professor of history at Christendom requires estate property College and author of the highly acclaimed to be kept within families, Bowery to Broadway: The American Irish in including the property of the Classic Hollywood Cinema. family tomb.

Walls for the wind, And a roof for the rain, And drinks beside the fire — Laughter to cheer you And those you love near you, and

all that your heart may desire.

CHRISTENDOM M AY

IN IRELAND

22–31, 2020

F U L L I T I N E R A RY F O RT H C O M I N G Join Christendom College President and Legatus Members Dr. Timothy O’Donnell and his wife, Cathy, as they explore the natural, cultural, and spiritual beauties of the Emerald Isle. Trip includes classes in Irish history, daily Mass, and more!

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N , C O N TAC T B R E N DA . S E E L B AC H @ C H R I S T E N D O M . E D U

NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID Huntington, IN Permit # 832

134 Christendom Drive, Front Royal, VA 22630

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

Help Christendom bring hope to the future by including a few words in your will.

Do you need income to supplement your retirement years? Looking for a plan to protect your home or other assets for your family? A gift to Christendom College through your last will or estate may help achieve one of these important goals and—at the same time—powerfully impact the education and formation of the next generation of Catholic leaders in our nation! Learn how a few words in your will can help bring hope to the future and stability to your family.

Interested in building a more hopeful future through a legacy gift to Christendom College? Contact: John F. Ciskanik Office of Gift Planning ciskanik@christendom.edu 434.907.3063

LEAR N MO R E AT CH R I S TE N DOM.E D U / P LAN N E D G I V I N G