T H E M A G A Z I N E O F C AT H O L I C M I S S I O N E R S T O R U R A L A M E R I C A
breaking bread in
the Mountains Brother Tom Sheehy serves food for the journey on the Appalachian Trail
the holy land of appalachia
Glenmary teams up for mission education
G L E N M A R Y. O R G
welcome to martin county
Existing parish joins home mission family
unlikely convert, key partner
Mission supporter takes the long way home
A U T U M N 2 0 1 81
We can do good
FROM THE EDITOR / John Stegeman We are a Catholic society of priests and brothers who, along with numerous coworkers, establish the Catholic Church in small-town and rural America. Founded in 1939 by Father William Howard Bishop, Glenmary is the only religious community devoted exclusively to serving the spiritually and materially poor in the rural U.S. home missions. Today, supported entirely through freewill offerings, we staff missions and ministries throughout Appalachia and the South. Glenmary missioners serve in areas where frequently less than one percent of the population is Catholic, a significant percentage have no church affiliation, and the poverty rate is often twice the national average. Glenmary is known for respecting the many cultures encountered in the home missions. Our missionary activity includes building Catholic communities, fostering ecumenical cooperation, evangelizing the unchurched, social outreach and working for justice.
GLENMARY CHALLENGE Our quarterly magazine has three goals: to educate Catholics about the U.S. home missions, to motivate young men to consider Glenmary priesthood or brotherhood, and to invite all Catholics to respond to their baptismal call to be missionary by partnering with Glenmary as financial contributors, prayer partners, professional coworkers and/or volunteers. Glenmary Challenge is sent to all donors, to U.S. diocesan clergy and to anyone who requests it. (To begin receiving issues, use the contact information below.)
GLENMARY HOME MISSIONERS P.O. Box 465618 · Cincinnati, OH 45246-5618 513-874-8900 · 800-935-0975 · challenge@glenmary.org © 2018 Glenmary Home Missioners Reprint permission granted upon request
2
It has been a demoralizing news cycle for Catholics lately. Many of us rightly feel anger, disgust and despair at the news. Real responsibility needs to be taken and real action is needed for healing. But for you and me, the regular Catholics in the pews, what can we do? It is hard to remember sometimes that day-to-day Christian living—acts of goodness—are still important. In a hurting world, I submit they're crucial. I am thankful to witness the good works of Glenmarians on a regular basis. The storms currently rocking the church are not ignored here. The response of these priests and brothers is not despair or shaking their fists at the sky. No. Instead they go and do what God has called them to do—be Christ to others. They keep doing good. The same month a Pennsylvania grand jury investigation released documents detailing horrific abuse, Glenmary Father Vic Subb in Tennessee presided at three separate funerals for children. He mourned with the families, providing what comfort he could, and Glenmary was able to help with funeral expenses. He did the good he was able to do. Two days after Pope Francis ordered a now-disgraced archbishop to observe a life of penance, Glenmary Brother Jason Muhlenkamp in Georgia met a young man from Cameroon who had spent two years in detention with immigration. Upon release he had no resources, no ride, no hope. Brother Jason provided needed hospitality. The man will remember those good deeds. Neither of these snapshots are earth-shattering examples of holiness but they are instances of Catholics doing good. You and I can't fix the world. Only God can. But we can do good. Maybe that's how healing starts. ON THE COVER: Brother Tom Sheehy is what's known as a "trail angel" along the Appalachian Trail. Angels set up shop along the 2,200 mile path with hospitality for hikers. For Brother Tom, it's a ministry of presence. Photo by John Feister
VOLUME 81
8
NUMBER 3
atop indian grave gap , brother tom provides
food for the journey
breaking bread COVER STORY / John Feister
12
welcome to
martin county
Father John Brown returns from cancer battle to lead newest Glenmary mission in Williamston, North Carolina.
13
protecting the holy land of appalachia
All of God's creation is holy. Glenmary and Maryknoll team up on unique trip to further mission education.
17
i never thought i ' d be catholic
David Doseff went from reluctant convert to avid supporter of Catholic faith through Glenmary.
Publisher: Fr. Chet Artysiewicz Editor: John Stegeman Asst. Editor: John Feister Art Director: Cassie Magnotta Staff Writer: Fr. John Rausch
Planning-Review Board: Lindsay Braud, Br. Craig Digmann, Fr. Dave Glockner, Br. David Henley, Frank Lesko, Fr. Neil Pezzulo, Lucy Putnam, Fr. Don Tranel
Donor Advisory Board: Theodore Capossela, Jill Collet, Joseph DeAngelo, Ivan David Doseff, William Goslee, Ken Mahle, Terry Schneeman, Albert Vondra
It makes a difference to 'that one' FROM THE PRESIDENT / Father Chet Artysiewicz There is an old story of two friends walking on a beach littered with hundreds of starfish that had been marooned there. In all likelihood they would die before the next high tide would carry them back to the ocean. The first friend picks up a starfish and casts it back into the water where it could survive. The companion questions the gesture asking, “What difference will it make? There are so many.” The rescuer replied, “It makes a difference to that one.” Indeed daily newscasts report challenges that are daunting to address. While no one person—or group—can do everything, each can do something. Glenmary ministers in places that barely make the map. But the people whose lives our missioners touch may be likened to that starfish. It makes a difference to them. I was reminded of the starfish image during some recent mission visitations. In one I observed an after school tutoring program our brothers had initiated. 4
GLENMARY CHALLENGE glenmary.org
At times things seem stalled, progress elusive. One day a boy came hurrying into the center, excitedly waving a paper. He proudly displayed the test that boldly proclaimed his grade: 100. The overjoyed lad said, “I’ve never gotten a 100 before.” It makes a difference to that child. One of our priests during his ministry with alcoholics uses Rembrandt’s "The Return of the Prodigal Son" as an image to bring home the message of God’s love and forgiveness. He shared with me that one man looked at the picture a long time and finally said, “I can’t identify with this. My father abandoned us when I was a child.” Immediately, a heaviness filled the room. But after a brief pause he continued saying, “Don’t people call you ‘Father’?” The priest acknowledged that it was a common reference. The man added, “Do you mind if I call you Father?” He saw in this priest a kindness he had not experienced. It makes a difference to him. For Glenmary, it has never been about numbers. In some instances very dedicated missioners have labored for years and perhaps no one has joined the Church. The lack of growth was certainly not for a lack of effort.
But even in those instances, I dare say people’s lives were changed and communities enriched by our ministry. These Catholic missionaries make a difference—by beautifying a downtown, by serving on local committees and boards— communicating all the while God’s love, and that these people matter. I heard that Bishop Fulton J. Sheen, the great Catholic speaker and television teacher (for those who don’t know, he was on prime time in the 1950s when there were only 3 networks!), remarked, “One soul is diocese enough for any bishop.” Glenmary continues to labor in rural and small town America as our founder, Father William H. Bishop, envisioned. While advances in communications and transportation have affected the realities of these areas, the need for the presence of the Catholic Church continues. Lest we think these small places are insignificant, recall that many resemble the mustard seed in the Gospels. Most of our former missions are alive and functioning and a number could be described as flourishing. One is now the second largest parish in its diocese; another had the highest per capita rate of giving in its diocese during our tenure. Currently one parish’s youth program was recognized as a model for its diocese. Thank you for supporting our efforts—enabling us to make a difference. Know that Glenmary is very grateful—and so are many “starfish” as well.
glenmary news & notes Glenmary sends forth 2 novices
m ission f or mat ion / Lia pliquam, voloribusa sum que sam resc The mission bell rang on a bright and muggy Wednesday morning, Aug. 29, as Glenmary novices Willy Kyagulanyi and Erick Orandi were blessed and sent forth for the mission-placement portion of their novitiate year.
Brother David Henley, Glenmary's vocation director, rang the bell and
Glenmary president Father Chet Artysiewicz presided as the men were giv-
en blessed crucifixes and told to be "messengers of salvation and peace, marked with the sign of the cross."
At the conclusion of the blessing, Erick and Willy drove off, passing Fa-
ther Chet who sprinkled their vehicles with holy water. The men hope to
make their First Oaths next summer. They are part of a group of 12 currently in formation for Glenmary. Willy is assigned to Glenmary's Holy Family Church in Lafayette, Tenn.; Erick is assigned to Glenmary's St. Teresa of Kolkata Catholic Church in Maynardville, Tenn.
LEFT: A starfish is returned to the sea. Photo by iStock Autumn 2018
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
5
ar o un d t h e mis s ion s • Bishop Richard Stika of the Diocese of Knoxville dedicated St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Mission's new building on Sept. 29. The mission celebrated its first Mass in the new structure on June 30. Below: Father Tom Charters distributes Holy Communion during the first Mass in the new building. • Glenmary is partnering with Cincinnati-based Sacred Heart Radio on their new daily drivetime show, "Driving Home the Faith," hosted by a local diocesan priest. Glenmarians will be regular guests on the show, which launched in September. • Glenmary wishes a joyous retirement to former Accounting Manager Judy Hawkins. Judy retired Aug. 31 after 46 years with Glenmary. • Glenmary Challenge was honored with four Catholic Press Association Awards this June: Third place for best mission magazine, second place for Best Analysis Writing, third place for Best Reporting on Social Justice Issues and an honorable mention for Best Coverage of Ecumenical/ Interfaith Issues.
Holy Family Mission breaks ground m ission g r ow t h / Lia pliquam, voloribusa sum que sam resc
For Glenmary Father Vic Subb and hundreds of Catholics in Tennessee, Aug. 1 wasn't just the start of the new month — it was the start of a new chapter in the life of Holy Family Catholic Mission. With more than one hundred members, visitors, visiting ministers and local officials in attendance, ground was broken in Macon County for a new church to house the growing parish. Bishop Mark J. Spalding, of the Diocese of Nashville, presided at a Mass for the groundbreaking. “Look around you,” Bishop Spalding said during his homily. “Look at the diversity here. Your church is truly being built of living stones.” This celebration was the culmination of a plan to replace the small, circular church building currently in use. Holy Family began as an offshoot of Glenmary's mission in Scottsville, Ky. It is now Glenmary's largest mission. “The church began planning 15 years ago for a new building with Father Dennis Holly,” Father Vic explained. “After last year we felt we had enough money to seek bids. I am so proud of the people here. They have worked so hard. We build for them and for those who come after us. This parish is truly a celebration of many great, diverse people. The church is alive in Macon County!” Construction is estimated to be completed in seven months, and Father Vic is hopeful the new building will be ready in time for Easter Mass in 2019. ABOVE: Bishop Mark J. Spalding, second from right, presides at a groundbreaking ceremony for Holy Family Mission in Macon County, Tenn. Holy Family Pastor Father Vic Subb is at far right. Photo by Matthew Solarz.
6
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
glenmary.org
World travelers
N.C. mission supports schools
Glenmary's two newest members took the next steps on their journey to the priesthood July 5 in Kenya. Richard Toboso and Charles Aketch, both native Kenyans, were ordained as transitional deacons by Archbishop Zacchaeus Okoth of the Archdiocese of Kisumu. Deacons Richard and Charles are presently in Mexico taking Spanish immersion classes to help better connect with Spanish speakers in the U.S. home missions. Their priestly ordination will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 27 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Fairfield, Ohio. Bishop Richard Stika of the Diocese of Knoxville will be the ordaining bishop.
On Aug. 14, the Bertie County (N.C.) Board of Education presented an
m iss ion f or m at ion oribusa
m ission communi t y
award to Glenmary Father Aaron Wessman to note the support Glenmary has provided to the local school district.
Father Aaron received the award on behalf of the many people who
have helped support Bertie County Schools through Glenmary. They in-
clude, in part, Holy Spirit Mission, St. Thomas More parish in Chapel Hill, N.C., the workers of Glenmary Home Missioners Headquarters in Cincin-
nati, former pastor of Holy Spirit Glenmary Father Mike Kerin and families of Immaculata Catholic School students in Durham, N.C.
Glenmary has donated thousands of books, hundreds of backpacks
and hundreds of dollars to help teachers in Bertie County purchase resources for their classrooms.
The book project started in 2015 when Father Mike gave a presenta-
tion about the needs in Bertie County to the parishioners at St. Thomas
More. Parishioners formed a group called the Friends of Glenmary Ministry. Through their annual school library book sale and the generosity of indi-
vidual parishioners, 1,500 books were donated in the first year. More than 7,000 books were delivered this spring.
ABOVE: Bobby Occena, chairman of the Bertie County Board of Education, and member of Holy Spirit Church, looks over the Certificate of Appreciation with Father Aaron. LEFT: Richard Toboso, left, and Charles Aketch prepare to be ordained deacons.
Autumn 2018
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
7
Breaking Bread in the mountains
story + photo g raphs by john f ei st er
A garden-size statue of St. Francis of Assisi sets a welcome tone on the outside; inside the warm, delicious smell of banana-nut bread makes this small RV seem three times bigger. It’s early May in Unicoi, Tennessee: Brother Tom Sheehy is preparing to set up shop on the Appalachian Trail. The next morning, Brother Tom, an outreach worker, goes to the wash house that he built out back and loads his modest Chevy pickup truck with food and drink coolers, chairs, a shade umbrella, and his trademark sign for the tailgate: Glenmary Home Missioners. One more check to be sure his two canine companions, Moses and Job, are safe and comfortable in their home, then Brother Tom heads up the mountains to the Indian Grave Gap trailhead. The hikers call him a Trail Angel, one of hundreds along the 2,200 mile trek from Georgia to Maine who provide food and respite for those who make the journey each year. Brother Tom thinks of it more as a ministry of presence. “My diocese’s office, in Knox-
8
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
glenmary.org
ville, calls it ‘threshold conversations,’” Brother Tom explains. He meets people both on the physical threshold between Tennessee and North Carolina, and, more important, on the moral threshold of life’s journey, for many, a threshold of faith. He nourishes them with food and drink, and lends a listening ear. “What do they call it?” he scratches his ahead as if trying to recall—he clearly avoids technical terms for his simple witness. “Pre-evangelization,” he says after a pause. “A lot of it is just dealing with some of the hurts that are out there. Many hikers are disenfranchised from organized religion for significant reasons. So in a short period of time, if alone, we can talk about this. I say ‘You know, we are very imperfect people. You know, there's only one perfect person. He was hung on a tree.’” Whether it’s disaffection with the Church in the wake of scandal, or family, or relationship pain, or a struggle with faith, Brother Tom listens, and might even talk. “What's the line attributed to St. Francis?”
he asks. “‘Preach the Gospel always, and use words if necessary?’” His indeed is a ministry of presence. Brother Tom got this idea when he was sent by Glenmary to help lay the groundwork for an official Catholic presence in Unicoi County, Tenn. He was on the heels of his successful battle against prostate cancer, ready to head back to the missions. He spent a short stint in the coalfields, in Logan, West Virginia. Then he got a request from Glenmary’s leadership: “‘We’re opening up in eastern Tennessee,’” the leadership Council told me. ‘Go down there and explore for an opportunity that suits you, then bring it back to us for approval.’” He started by helping Glenmary Father Tom Charters locate a site for a mission church. He worked with Father Tom and a planning committee of scattered
working with Father Tom Charters, Brother Tom explored the local area and talked to people. One place he discovered a need was with Habitat for Humanity. A Habitat chapter partners with community leaders and low-income families to build homes (see box on page 11). There was another opportunity, a few miles from Erwin, on the Appalachian Trail. It would not be a typical Glenmary outreach, but it would seal for Brother Tom a place in a community trying to strengthen its ties to this regional tourist phenomenon.
Catholics in the area, who celebrated Mass in Father Tom’s house, to discern the best approach to building. Would it be cost-cutting and simple, or built to feel a bit more established? The planning committee chose an approach to build what they considered the most permanent building they and the diocese could afford. They hired an architect and got to work. (St. Michael the Archangel Mission celebrated its first Mass in the new building June 30.) Brother Tom’s work was done, so he set out to see what other local needs he might serve. Perhaps this is one of the more difficult parts of Glenmary’s ministry: How do you find your way in a location which has had no formal Catholic presence, where people often are predisposed to reject Catholicism? While
hikers into conversation—generally with some hope of religious conversion. He also had learned that the folks on the Tennessee side of the border—notably local law enforcement—were more open-minded than those on the North Carolina side about local volunteers encouraging these young hikers. When Brother Tom heard of an upcoming festival where an Appalachian Trail Conversancy representative would be present, he attended. “It was there I met Miss Janet,” he says. Clearly she was instrumental in helping him set up his trail ministry.
A Place on the Trail Brother Tom had seen people around the area, setting up refreshment stands in parking lots as a way to lure
It's a misty morning atop Indian Grave Gap, where Brother Tom sets up for another day of ministry. Within an hour hikers come along and stop for refreshment. Above left, a Bostonian who goes by the "trail name" Charmin grabs an orange; Coloradan Morgan McCarty, right, hits the trail, smiling and rejuvenated. Autumn 2018
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
9
Janet Hensley, “Miss Janet,” worked for the conservancy and now volunteers up and down the various sections of the trail. Brother Tom told her “I’m interested in some sort of trail ministry. I’m just not sure where to begin or how to start. Can you give me some clues?” Her reply? “Absolutely!” She told him the first step would be to visit all of the local trailheads (access points). He tells the story from there. “‘Step number two,’ she said, ‘Start picking up the hikers and carry them to wherever they want to go. Like Walgreen’s, Walmart, just converse back and forth.’” "Why do that?" he asked. “She replied, ‘They will decide for you what your ministry will look like.’” Being Present That type of listening is nothing new to a Glenmarian. He took her advice and learned from the hikers. “They were the ones who said, we need chairs, we need refreshments, like drinks. Bring whatever homemade stuff you can, and bring out fruit, vegetables, and so on. They gave me a whole list of things they wanted to see out there!”
10
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
glenmary.org
Within a little while he started going out to the trail with chairs and drinks and “it just evolved,” he says. He moved from a parking lot to a more inviting spot he now uses at Indian Grave Gap, a few feet inside of Tennessee. Brother Tom knew that some of the Trail Angels had experienced problems with local law enforcement in North Carolina so he made sure to collaborate with the local police in Tennessee, offering them coffee, encouraging them to sit down and talk with both American and international hikers, educating them about the benefits of the trail for their community. It worked. Says Brother Tom, “Everything just kind of fell into place.” Now five years into his ministry, he found that hikers will stop and take a rest to enjoy the things the early hikers suggested. So he picks up fresh fruit, bakes homemade treats, and brings decanters of hot coffee, sweet tea lemonade and cold-water. He brings them to the trailhead at the start of each hiking day, sets up his shady respite spot, and talks with hikers who stop by. “Presence means being out there, being kind to them and being available. When they want to talk, they talk,”
Brother Tom explains. He offers an example from a deeply emotional conversation he had recently with a hiker. “He started talking about the death of his son and how that impacted him. I said, ‘I can identify with you, sir. I lost my mother and dad last year. It’s really tough, but you know where he’s at. “You never know what you’re going to stumble across,” Brother Tom says, “you just throw out little things, touch upon this, touch upon that.” He mentions having talked to people who feel cast off by the Church, people who are going through a divorce, are dealing with a family member with cancer, almost any human problem out there. “I had one kid who I asked, ‘Why did you plan a hike for this year?’ He told me ‘Because next year I’ll be in a wheelchair.’” The man was experiencing the onset of Multiple Sclerosis and knew he may one day soon be unable to walk. “Another man said, ‘I’m not going to make the entire trek this year.’ ‘Why not?’ I asked. ‘Because I’m dying of cancer,’ he said.” Brother Tom has many stories to share. “Mother Teresa would say something like, ‘My sisters are the enfleshment of Jesus Christ. If these people never meet Jesus, they’ll meet him through my Sisters.’” To Brother Tom, that’s a ministry of presence. Today it is raining, as it has been all this week. He makes small talk with a few hikers who stop by, some from the West Coast, some from the east, a few from Georgia. All of them are glad for a cup of coffee and a piece of Tom’s banana bread or another snack before they head back into the woods, up the trail towards Virginia and beyond, towards Maine. He’ll pack things back onto his truck by noon today—“business is slow,” he might say, with a note of frustration. “It’s been raining all week.” Next week, though, when the weather’s better, more hikers will break camp and head this way, and he will be there to meet them. Brother Tom knows that he’s about evangelization, even though he rarely talks in those terms. The snack bread he bakes so carefully, his comfortable place of hospitality and encounter, respite along the journey; all comprise, in a sense, a eucharistic encounter. He’s bringing the presence of Jesus to hikers along the Appalachian trail, a step closer to the Church.
a pl ac e to l iv e Brother Tom Sheehy (see accompanying story) came along at the right time for the Holston Habitat for Humanity volunteer program. Habitat chapters work with local families to build affordable housing and sometimes operate ReStores, which are home improvement stores that sell new and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories, building materials and more. When the ReStore in Johnson City faced a key time of transition, Brother Tom was able to assist by serving as its manager. The Holston chapter honored him for his work— after tricking the humble Brother into attending the annual volunteer appreciation dinner! “Some coworkers from the Restore insisted,” he recalls with a laugh. He couldn’t say no. ABOVE: Brother Tom shows off his award with local Habitat for Humanity director Connie Whitaker. OPPOSITE, TOP: The log book tells the story, with hikers from Kenya to Los Angeles. BOTTOM: Brother Tom hands out energizing food and drink to (left to right), Tijan Missagan (Ocala, Fla.), Kevin Cronishield (Taunton, Mass.), Ray Constantina (Toledo, Ohio) and Morgan McCarty (Rifle, Colo.). These are the moments that allow Brother Tom to strike a conversation and, when the moment arises, talk about faith.
Autumn 2018
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
11
Welcome to Martin County
Priest who beat cancer ready for adventure
mission expansion / by john stegeman Glenmary Home Missioners will assume care of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Martin County, N.C., effective Oct. 6. Father John Brown, who recently overcame a battle with cancer, will be the mission's pastor. The move is Glenmary’s first expansion since the society opened three missions in East Tennessee. "We hope to build upon the foundation laid by the priests and religious who generously served Martin County before us," said Glenmary President Father Chet Artysiewicz. Glenmary is known for establishing and developing new missions, but has at times taken over existing communities like Holy Trinity. The Diocese of Raleigh established Holy Trinity in 1951. For most of its history the church has been served by visit-
12
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
ing priests and administered by religious sisters. Glenmary was invited by Bishop Luis R. Zarama to bring its mission expertise to Martin County. "The increased presence of the Glenmary Fathers and Brothers in our diocese is a special blessing for our missionary efforts to give witness to the Catholic Faith in rural and small-town eastern North Carolina," said Father James F. Garneau, chair of the Raleigh diocese's Home Mission Society board. Glenmary has a long history in western North Carolina, but first came to the Diocese of Raleigh, which covers the eastern half of the state, in 2004. Holy Trinity will be Glenmary’s third mission in eastern North Carolina, along with Holy Spirit mission in Bertie County, and St. Joan of Arc in Washington County. Father John will be the mission's first resident pastor. He was told of his new assignment while serving as pastor of Glenmary's Blakely, Ga., mission in October of 2017. Before it could begin, however, cancer got in the way. "When I went for a routine colonoscopy and woke up to hear him saying that I had colon cancer and might be cured, or might be dead before Christmas, I was enormously surprised," Father John said. "Not surprised by the prospect of dying itself, but surprised at the changes glenmary.org
it meant for my life." Quickly his pastoral life changed. Instead of baptisms, it was doctor's appointments. Instead of celebrating weddings, he was enduring radiation. For the sake of his health, Father John returned to the Glenmary headquarters in Cincinnati. "I always have wanted to serve in the missions," said Father John. "I have been grateful for those who “took their turn” working at headquarters in administration, but never quite wanted to be there." Though he misses the people of Glenmary's Georgia missions, Father John is excited to meet the people of Martin County and return to mission life. "God is already there, and so God’s Spirit and people who love Him will be there," he said. "My whole vocation is to bring the word of truth and the sacrament of the Eucharist to people who cannot share in it. I am eager to go." According to the Glenmary Research Center, Martin County has approximately 25,000 residents, and only 1.6 percent of them are Catholic. Roughly 23 percent live below the poverty line.
ABOVE: Holy Trinity was established in 1951 but never had a resident priest until Father Brown's arrival. LEFT: Father John Brown is eager to return to mission life as pastor of Holy Trinity.
protecting
The Holy Land of appalachia
t ext + photo g raphs by john f eist er The Home Missioners of America (Glenmary) and the Foreign Mission Society of America (Maryknoll) have some things in common, like mission education. This past summer Maryknoll sponsored a mission trip to Appalachia, hosted by Glenmary Father John Rausch. In an era when our Church is challenging us to consider how we care for creation, Father John guides groups on pilgrimages in Appalachian Kentucky, pointing out the beauty of the land, along with sustainable ways to overcome the consequences of strip mining and mountaintop removal. He calls Appalachia a "Holy Land." Indeed, all of God's creation is sacred. Come along on a photo-pilgrimage with Father John. SELF SUFFICIENT ("off the grid") in Wolfe County, Kentucky, Renee Powell explains her solar panel to visitors and (above) harvests a tasty, home-gown snack. Autumn 2018
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
13
AN ALLEGEDLY RECLAIMED strip-mining site, above, shows that sparse fastgrowing seed passes for reclaimed forest. Meanwhile, poisoned drinking water is a disaster for local communities. Garbage piles, right, replace trash pick-up in under served counties.
LAUDATO SI'! Praise to you, O Lord! Echoing St. Francis, the pope calls us to honor creation as a sacred gift.
14
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
glenmary.org
HOPE AND DESPAIR Scenes of recovery meet those of despair, a witness to Gospel values.
TO PLANT CHESTNUT trees is a sign of renewal. Theresa Johnson (left) plants a tree brought by University of Kentucky forester Chris Barton, (far right). Deacon Paul Bork uses Chris' shovel to turn the earth. A greenhouse in Berea (below) nurtures the seeds of native plants, modeling growth in an earth-friendly manner.
Autumn 2018
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
15
CARE OF CREATION takes many forms. Clockwise: Nick Comer shows his power co-op's solar program; Rusty Justice explains BitSource's software job-development in a post-coal economy; Todd Justice shows tomatoes from a community garden; Berea College's Richard Olson explains sustainablity; Father John and Cherie McDiffett smile at job-developing Heritage Kitchens.
FUTURE WITNESS "The turtle only makes progress when he sticks his neck out," goes the saying. Pioneers in sustainable living are doing just that, whether it be in power, job development, agriculture, modeling or supporting the good— in whatever way they are called.
"I never thought I'd be Catholic" Sharing a passion for home missions
partner in mission / by molly williamson David Doseff never thought he would become Catholic. He grew up Christian in Maryland but was never particularly connected to his faith. Almost 40 years later, he is leading Bible studies and serving on Glenmary’s Donor Advisory Board. He owes it all to his wife, Lisa, who introduced him to the faith. When they married 37 years ago, David had to sign a paper indicating that as a non-Catholic, he agreed to raise his children in the faith. He didn’t give it much thought then, but after their first child, Corianne, was born, the Doseffs tried to attend both a Catholic and Presbyterian church each Sunday. It wasn’t working. He decided to give RCIA a chance, but he dropped out twice before he converted. At that time, the Doseffs were attending St. Louis Parish in Clarksville, Maryland, the same church where Glenmary’s founder Father William Howard Bishop got his start. Glenmarians would often visit and make mission appeals. David would contribute a small amount to each appeal. In March of 2004 Susan Lambert, planned giving officer for Glenmary, contacted the Doseffs. “She said she wanted to take us to lunch to thank us for our contri-
bution,” David said. “I asked her where she was staying and if she would like to stay with us.” A friendship formed. Susan and Father Francois Pellissier worked from the Doseffs’ home on their visit, using it as a home base while they met with donors in the area. The Doseffs began hosting other Glenmarians when they were in the area. Father Dan Dorsey, Father Dominic Duggins and Brother Jack Henn all stayed at the Doseff house on donor visits. “Before they left one time, Susan and Father Francois mentioned how nice it was to get to know us in such an informal setting,” David said. “They said it would be nice to meet all donors in that way. So, we offered to host donor events in our home. Lisa is good at entertaining and she enjoys doing it.” The Doseffs began hosting events every year. Glenmarians would speak at the local church and then all of the donors would gather at the Doseffs’ house. The Doseffs would invite their friends and other parishioners, and donors would travel several hours for the parties. “One time when Father Dan was here, we were 20 minutes from having 40 people come over, and the power went out because of a wind storm,” David said. “Lisa put candles out, took the meat out Autumn 2018
of the oven and we finished it on the grill. We had a dinner party in the dark by candlelight. As Father Dan started to give an overview of Glenmary, the power came back on.” The Doseffs echo the words from a familiar hymn; "we are many parts, we are all one body; and the gifts we have we are given to share." From opening their home to Glenmarians, hosting donor gatherings, to serving on our Donor Advisory Board and more, David and Lisa's dedication and friendship to Glenmary truly shows how our "body" is stronger when our many "parts" work together. At Glenmary, we are grateful for and inspired by our donors who share our missionary heart. Because of donors like the Doseffs, many lives will continue to be touched by our combined efforts to love and serve in the home mission field. ABOVE: David Doseff, Catholic convert and member of Glenmary Donor Advisory Board. GLENMARY CHALLENGE
17
letters to the editor reader says thank you
This is a "thank you" for the lovely article you published on Brother Ken Woods in the summer issue ("Jubilarians celebrating 60 years). The article got us up to date on his life after he left Murphy, N.C. Our family was blessed with wonderful Glenmary priests and brothers. We have four sons, grown up now, who had the wonderful influence of these religious while they were growing up. Father T.J. Meehan would fish in the pond with the boys. We also remember fondly Fathers Robert Rademacher and Gus Guppenburger. Glenmary has moved on from this area, but we sure miss all of you. Maureen Ripper · Murphy, N.C. touched my heart
I have been receiving the Challenge regularly these past four years but
the Summer 2018 edition especially touched my heart. I had contributed financially to the support of a friend and former colleague through his five years of study at seminary....Reading the cover story (For my whole life: Glenmary celebrates Final Oaths of two new members) renewed my excitement of having been a part of the Church's growth with new "Fishers of Men." Then I saw the article on Father Chet Artysiewicz protesting against racism and bigotry 30 years ago, which I still see today in the call for human dignity after an immigration raid in Tennessee and the response of several Christian churches and the Glenmary Mission church to help these "least of our brethren." (Glenmary responds to immigration raid) I was a Spanish teacher for 35 of my 44 years in the classroom. Hispanic immigrant students would suddenly dis-
Charitable Gift Annuity Rates WENT UP!
donor
annuity
appear from our rolls as their families moved or went underground. Father Steve's parishioners must have their day in court. How will they get there? Will they be pushed away because their English isn't the best? Because they are too brown? Because someone thinks they don't belong? Let us remember Jesus' words: "For human beings it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God.” Denise Collado · Sarasota, Fla. priest recalls glenmarians
While perusing the summer 2018 issue of Glenmary Challenge, I noticed that Father Bob Dalton and Father Wil Steinbacher were celebrating 60 years in Glenmary. That date made me realize I am also getting along in years. Last year I celebrated 57 years since my ordination. I bring this up to remember my stay with Glenmary back in the late 1950s. It was my custom during the seminary summers to do pastoral work in places outside the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. A Glenmary priest came to the seminary and spoke. I spent most of the following summer at Glenmary. The pastoral task that summer was the Christian living experience in the mountains of North Carolina. Fathers Dalton, Steinbacher and Les Schmidt were companion counselors. One of the things I learned that summer was that the "missionary spirit" referred not only to Africa, Asia and the Middle East, but also to the United States. Prayerful wishes to the jubilarians. Fr. Gilbert Romero · Seal Beach, Calif.
we want your feedback !
A Glenmary Gift Annuity supports the missions, and you! For more information contact Susan Lambert at slambert@glenmary.org or 800-935-0975
18
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
glenmary.org
Send to: Editor, Glenmary Challenge, P.O. Box 465618, Cincinnati, OH 45246. Email: challenge@glenmary.org. Comments printed at the discretion of editor. May be edited for clarity and space. Include a postal address with letter.
T H E W E B S I T E O F C AT H O L I C MISSIONERS TO RURAL AMERICA
glenmary.org
Remember your loved ones Glenmary will celebrate a special All Souls Day Mass Nov. 2 in Cincinnati to remember the deceased friends and family of Glenmary's donors. To have your loved one remembered, call 800935-0975 or visit
glenmary.org/allsouls
Glenmary Council speaks out on abuse in public letter In response to the recent headlines about abuse within the Catholic Church, Glenmary's Executive Council issued a release outlining the ways Glenmary strives to be safe, transparent, and just.
glenmary.org/abuse-procedures
Come and See If Glenmary stirs your heart, come and see the missions, meet the missioners, and see if this is where God is calling you to make a difference!
glenmary.org/come-and-see Want to join the team? From time to time Glenmary has career openings at its Cincinnati headquarters. Bookmark the link below and check back often.
Muy Bien
El Reto Glenmary, the Spanish-language magazine of Glenmary, is available to read online. Limited copies are available on request.
glenmary.org/elreto2018
glenmary.org/job-ops Do you shop on Amazon? All you have to do is designate that your charity of choice as Glenmary and Amazon will donate a portion of each purchase made to us.
glenmary.org/amazon-smile Traveling Ecumenist Director of Catholic-Evangelical Relations Frank Lesko blogs about many topics, including ecumenism: the narrow path that avoids cheap grace.
tinyurl.com/ecumenism18 Home Mission Stories
Laudato Si'
Communications manager John Stegeman recounts a trip to Father Neil Pezzulo's personal ministry in Ky.
The Archdiocese of Cincinnati honored Glenmary as a "Laudato Si community" for its commitment to care of creation.
glenmary.org/laudatosicommunity
tinyurl.com/glenmaryky Autumn 2018
GLENMARY CHALLENGE
19
P.O. Box 465618 ¡ Cincinnati, OH 45246-5618
On the road, again 60 churches across 17 states this summer.
glenmarians visited more than
The life of a Glenmary missioner is often
But Glenmary priests and brothers also
Often they're going from home to home
the need for home mission ministry and
spent traveling from one place to another. to care for their parishioners. Other
times they're en route to a new mission.
travel the nation to educate people about
Glenmary's unique charism. Thank you to all
the parishes who hosted missioners this year.
glenmary.org
c at h o l i c m i s s i o n e r s t o r u r a l a m e r i c a
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. Postage PAID Glenmary Home Missioners
