Roman Echoes 2016 – Volume 20, Issue 3

RomanEchoes M AY 2 0 1 6

VOLUME 20: ISSUE 3

T H E P O N T I F I C A L N O RT H A M E R I C A N C O L L E G E

Our New

Rector FR. PETER C. HARMAN IS INSTALLED AS THE COLLEGE'S 23RD RECTOR

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22 An Interview with Fr. Peter Harman 28 Rector's Dinner

Editorial Staff EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Rev. Mr. M. Casey Sanders ‘17 Archdiocese of Louisville

Contents 20

MANAGING EDITOR Robert Duck ‘18 Diocese of Tulsa LAYOUT & DESIGN MANAGER Andrew Showers ‘17 Diocese of Madison

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ASSISTANT EDITORS Joseph Heschmeyer ‘18 Diocese of Kansas City, MO Joseph Scholten ‘17 Diocese of Sioux Falls LAYOUT & DESIGN EDITORS Michael Zimmerman ‘17 Archdiocese of Boston PHOTOGRAPHERS Daniel Hart ‘17 Diocese of Alexandria Leo Song ‘18 Diocese of Rockville Centre

Updates

5 Rector’s Corner

24 Life at the College 41 Institutional Advancement

Features 6 7 8 9

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Voices of NAC Casa Santa Maria ICTE Update We Remember Msgr. Roensch Sleeping Bags for the Homeless

12 CatholicBytes A catechetical podcast for busy Catholics on the go!

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A New Deacon's Holy Week Mission Trip to Central America Farewell, Monsignor Welcome, Father

20 The Rector Fr. Harman's diocesan brother, Deacon Michael Friedel, offers a biographical background of the Rector.

42 Economo’s Corner

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The Pontifical North American College

Cover Image: Fr. Peter Harman '99 (Springfield in Illinois) preaching at Santa Sabina Church

during his first Ash Wednesday as Rector of the North American College.

32 22 22 An Interview with Fr. Harman Roman Echoes' Joe Heschmeyer interviews the Rector

26 My Sister is a Sister 30 Echoing Back 32 The Roman Run

Rector's Dinner

34 Carl J. Peter Lecture 36 Play: “The Chosen” 38 Lenten Station Churches 40 Milestones to Holy Orders

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An Evening of Gratitude

The College gives thanks to its many benefactors at the annual Rector's Dinner.

ROMAN ECHOES 2016 • VOLUME 20: ISSUE 3

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BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE PONTIFICAL NORTH AMERICAN COLLEGE CHAIRMAN Most Rev. John J. Myers ‘67 Archbishop of Newark

TREASURER Most Rev. Frank J. Dewane ‘88, C‘89 Bishop of Venice

VICE CHAIRMAN Most Rev. John C. Nienstedt ‘73, C‘84 Archbishop Emeritus of St. Paul and Minneapolis

SECRETARY Most Rev. William P. Callahan, OFM Conv.

Bishop of La Crosse

Donald Cardinal Wuerl ‘67 Archbishop of Washington

Most Rev. William M. Mulvey ‘75 Bishop of Corpus Christi

Most Rev. Kurt R. Burnette C’07 Bishop of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic

Most Rev. William F. Murphy ‘65, C‘74 Bishop of Rockville Centre

RECTOR Very Rev. Peter C. Harman ‘99 DIRECTOR FOR ADMINISTRATION, PERSONNEL AND FACILITIES Rev. Kerry Abbott, OFM Conv.

VICE RECTOR OF SEMINARY LIFE Rev. Brian P. Christensen ‘99 ASSISTANT VICE RECTOR Rev. John P. Cush ’98, C’15 SUPERIOR, CASA SANTA MARIA Rev. Msgr. Fred Berardi C’82 DIRECTOR, INSTITUTE FOR CONTINUING THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION Rev. James M. Sullivan, OP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Mark Randall, CFRE

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The Pontifical North American College

Most Rev. Robert J. Carlson Archbishop of St. Louis Most Rev. Robert C. Evans ‘73, C‘89 Auxiliary Bishop of Providence Most Rev. Jeffrey M. Monforton ‘93, C‘02 Bishop of Steubenville

Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted ‘73, C’79 Bishop of Phoenix Most Rev. Joseph A. Pepe C‘76 Bishop of Las Vegas Most Rev. Glen J. Provost ‘75 Bishop of Lake Charles Most Rev. J. Peter Sartain ‘78 Archbishop of Seattle

For more information about the Pontifical North American College, subscription questions, or to learn about ways you can financially support “America’s Seminary in Rome,” please contact Mark Randall, CFRE, Executive Director, Institutional Advancement.

Tel: (202) 541-5411 • Fax: (202) 722-8804 Email: pnacdc@pnac.org • Website: www.pnac.org

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Rector’s Corner n Sunday, February 28, I had the privilege of being installed as the Rector of the College.

In the months which preceded this, I had many opportunities to ponder what the new role and its responsibilities would be like. I foresaw many unknown responsibilities and tasks.

I thought of the esteem I had for my Rector, now Cardinal Timothy Dolan, and for my predecessor, Msgr. James Checchio, with whom I have had the honor to work these last few years.

But what really captured my attention and by God’s grace my prayer, was thinking of my own arrival here as a student for the first time twenty years ago. I thought of how different I was as a man and as a man of faith after those five years. The focus was to try to reflect on what happened to me while I was here, and I came to a conclusion I should have been able to articulate a lot earlier than I have: what formed me was a lot more about God’s work in action at our College than it was about me.

There is a vulnerability that the seminarian comes to experience that, while frightening or intimidating at

times, and clearly countercultural, is surely the only way he can become a successful priest, pastor, confessor or teacher of the faith. The trust in God’s goodness and His presence in our Church and in our house is an invaluable lesson that a priest must surely gain.

During these years, seminarians are invited, or really maybe forced, to come face to face with at least two realities that I am convinced they would not come to if formation were somehow “individualized”. 1) God’s blessings for His Church are of unsurpassing depth and variance.

2) God will use the people and means we never could or would choose to form us after the Heart of His Son, if we allow it.

“We are not just passing through here!” One of the Second Year men said this in a profound way in his faculty evaluation last month. And while none of us looks at NAC as our permanent home (though for some of us it will end up being our address for a lot longer than we would have imagined), it is important to remember that what happens here, what we can allow God to do in us, changes us for the rest of our lives.

While that is true of every residence, every assignment, every place to some degree, it is particularly appropriate of this place we call the College. My time at the NAC, having the Holy Father as our neighbor, and who is here with us in this journey are some of the best blessings I have ever known. I see my new role as helping men find that God follows up on the call they have discerned, and that we are uniquely blessed to help form them for work in the Lord’s vineyard.

May God bless you for your prayers and support for us. May God bless the good work of our alumni in every corner of the United States. May God bless our North American College.

Very Rev. Peter C. Harman ‘99

And while none of us looks at NAC as our permanent home, it is important to remember that what happens here, what we can allow God to do in us, changes us for the rest of our lives.

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Voices of NAC One of the highlights of Lent in Rome is the practice of celebrating Mass at a series of daily “station churches,” an ancient tradition revived by the North American College. We asked some of our seminarians which station was their favorite, and why. Here’s what they had to say: “San Clemente, because it’s been in continual use since the time of the early Christian persecutions.”

John LoCoco Theology II Archdiocese of Milwaukee

“St. John Lateran’s, because of the giant Apostles’ statues.”

Kyle O’Connor Theology II Diocese of Richmond

“Saint Balbina. Her father found the chains of St. Peter so that she could be healed.

Both father and daughter converted and became martyrs. It’s a beautiful testimony to the saving power of our faith in the lives of families.”

Avery Daniel Theology I Archdiocese of Atlanta

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The Pontifical North American College

Casa Santa Maria

Grazie at the Casa

BY R E V. J O H N C U S H ’ 9 8, C ’ 1 5, D I O C E S E O F B R O O K LY N

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aving had the joy of being a seminarian at the hill, a graduate priest at the Casa Santa Maria, and now serving on the faculty of the seminary, I am eternally grateful to the community of the North American College: to the priests who trained me, the priests with whom I serve now on the faculty, the seminarians of my day, the seminarians of the present, the good religious sisters who serve both campuses, and the secretarial staff. However, we often overlook the wonderful personale who help make the seminary community and the graduate house into a home.

the personale have over forty years of service with the seminary or Casa.

For example, amongst the recently departed: Pasquina Vallabini, the outgoing capo of housekeeping here at the Casa, had devoted forty-five years to the Casa and Marisa Cherubini had been with the seminary/Casa for forty years. Also leaving in June will be Adelaide Muciaccia after sixteen years of service. Since the Casa and the seminary are one institution, some personale have served some time at both places. Carlo D’Antoni who had been at the Hill has now moved to the Casa to become our new capo of housekeeping.”

Msgr. Fred Berardi C’82 (New York), the Superior of the Casa Santa Maria, is so aware of the goodness of the personale who serve the Casa.

Fr. Kevin Walsh C’16 (Arlington) helps serve the community of the Casa Santa Maria as the kitchen capo. As such, he has learned to appreciate the great work performed by the personale at the Casa. Fr. Walsh had the opportunity to sit down and talk to someone whom every priest who has ever studied at the Casa has grown to know and love: Pasquina Vallabini.

When asked, Msgr. Berardi stated: “These men and women so graciously assist us who live and study in Rome to feel, as much as possible, at home.

They are so generous in the hospitality they provide us. They realize the many difficulties we face since we are far from our families and the people we serve or hope to serve. So many of them have told me that they love being a part of the NAC and feel that in many ways they are blessed to be surrounded by prayerful and devout men. A remarkable item of interest is the great stability found both here at the Casa and on the Hill: some of

But there is one thing in particular that seminarians and priests have been able to count on for the last forty-five years: the joyful presence of Pasquina and her cheerful voice have been an almost omnipresent constant, first at the Janiuculum and most recently at the Casa Santa Maria. Now that she is soon retiring, things will not be the same.

Pasquina Vallabini was born on March 18, 1951, in Lecce nei Marsi, in the province of Aquila. She grew up in the region of Abruzzi. In 1971 she came to the College. She worked first at the Janiculum until 1990. She began in the laundry room where she served until 1988. After that she worked in the refectory and in housekeeping until 1990. In February of that year she was sent to the Casa Santa Maria to oversee housekeeping, where she enjoyed considerable contact with the priests. When asked what she liked the most, she answered without hesitation, “Everything!”

Pasquina is a great example of the personale who love the priests and seminarians of the seminary and the Casa. To Pasquina, Marisa, and Adelaide, and to all our personale at both campuses, all of our priests and seminarians say: “Dal profondo del nostro cuore, grazie per il vostro amore e il vostro servizio.

La Madonna dell’Umiltà vi guardi e vi guidi sempre!” n ROMAN ECHOES 2016 • VOLUME 20: ISSUE 3

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ICTE

Strangers in a Strange Land

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R E V. E F R É N A L VA R E Z-P E L AYO, A R C H D I O C E S E O F TO R O N TO

his year, Casa O’Toole may look a little different to some as soon as you walk through the main doors on the floor referred to as "-1", which for a Canadian, I had come to know simply as ground floor. Oh well, just a different way of referring to the same thing, which is precisely what you will notice in our group this time around; we are a different group of priests.

The difference is noticeable. We are a total of twenty-four priests coming from the USA (13), Canada (6), Australia (4) and Norway (1). But the real picture that will hang on our wall will show five Americans, seven Filipinos, five Canadians, four Australians, two Vietnamese, and one Mexican. This has given Fr. Sullivan, our beloved director, a new meaning to his role as leader and shepherd.

Believe me, we could be the source of much frustration for him; his patience is remarkable.

It took the better part of January for all of us to figure our way through the “pots and pans” of cultural differences, accents, and personalities. We pray together, we study together, and we explore the Roman city together.

The rest of the time, we try our best to live within a climate of respect and openness, allowing friendships to gradually develop.

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ICTE priests enjoying a beautiful day in Assisi on one of their many excursions

instrumental for us in dealing with the “Where are you from?” question, is the wonderful alternative that has been given at “pranzo” every day.

The seminarians, when asked where they are from, in their answer provide the diocese as well as the state they come from. I find comfort in knowing that all of us come from a diocese, for whom we either study or work.

This answer tells a great deal more of where we truly come from as priests.

Our true sense of belonging is found precisely in the dioceses we have been incardinated into.

At Casa O’Toole, we have been given a newfound appreciation for those of us who are often referred to by bishops in English speaking countries as modern-day-missionaries. When Fr. Joseph Luong first celebrated Mass, he looked at us with confidence and said “I will attempt to celebrate Mass in a third language.” The silence that

followed was filled with a profound sense of respect and humility.

My decision to join ICTE for my first sabbatical break, after twenty years of service to the Archdiocese of Toronto, was not the result of a carefully examined list of options available to me, but, rather, the realization that this was by far the only attractive option that offered a carefully-packaged program fit for diocesan priests.

And now, as we near the end of our sabbatical, which will lead us to the Holy Land for Holy Week, I cannot think of a better place for international and ethnic priests to be, where not only spiritual and physical renewal is to be found, but a temporary home where ethnic and international priests are not the exception; for here, we’re all strangers in a strange land. n

A Great Ambassador of the College

Monsignor Roger Roensch

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R E V. M S G R . A N T H O N Y F I G U E I R E D O C ’ 0 0, A R C H D I O C E S E O F N E WA R K

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priest is a priest not for himself … he is for you.”

These words of St. John Vianney, patron of parish priests and model for seminarians, are what so many lay men and women, seminarians, priests, and bishops experienced in the person of Msgr. Roger Roensch, a priest of fifty-eight years, some thirty of which were devoted to the Pontifical North American College.

Looking back at my many personal moments with Msgr. Roensch, three devotions of his, which are essential to every priest, help me in a particular way: his respect for the Supreme Pontiff; his love for the Blessed Mother; and his dedication to the Eucharist and prayer. As a seminarian and priest in Rome, Msgr. Roensch knew seven popes. Each was different – from the “Pope of Peace,” Pius XII, to St. John XXIII, known as the “Good Pope,” to the courageous defender of life, Blessed Paul VI, to the short papacy of the “smiling” Pope John Paul I to the charismatic energy of St. John

Msgr. Roensch toasting the New Man class of 2017 during lunch at Lake Albano during Early Orientation

Msgr. Roensch doing what he loved best, welcoming guests to Rome and to the College

Paul II to the humility of the great theologian Pope Benedict XVI, and finally to the love of the simple and poor in Pope Francis. In each Holy Father, Monsignor saw and called others to be grateful for the Holy Spirit’s providence to the Church and world at a particular moment in history.

A second striking element of Msgr.

Roensch’s priesthood was his devotion to our Blessed Mother. Having outlived his parents, Edward and Leocadia, and siblings, Jack, Fr. Fred, and Mary, Monsignor turned to Mary to be his mother. As a sign, he asked that a large wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mother be placed in the Chapel of Casa O’Toole, his home and that of priests on sabbatical at the College, and, to this end, he personally sought out donors. Monsignor might well have quipped alongside St. John Vianney to whom the Chapel is dedicated: “The Blessed Mother is the longest relationship that I have ever had … she is much better still than the best of mothers!”

Finally, in a house dedicated to the formation of future priests, student

priests and priests on sabbatical, Msgr.

Roensch called us to be faithful to the Eucharist and prayer. When I was studying in Rome as a priest and living at the Casa Santa Maria, Monsignor directed the Bishops’ Office for U.S. Visitors to the Vatican. Often he would remind us priests that he never went a day without celebrating Mass. Years later, as a faculty member, I lived with Msgr. Roensch on the Janiculum Hill campus, and so often, I would find him offering Mass on his own and praying the breviary into the late hours of the evening. Always he would remember the thousands of visitors from the United States whom he welcomed to Rome and the many others who give so generously to the College.

How much we miss Msgr. Roensch’s knowledge of Rome, his priestly example and fatherly kindness!

Yet I remain convinced that, in his large heart, even in heaven, he remains “a priest not for himself.”

From there, Monsignor intercedes for us all, desiring that, as he exemplified, we too may live the Act of Love of Saint John Vianney: I love You, O my God My only desire is to love You, until the last breath of my life.

Do me the grace: to suffer while loving You, to love You while suffering, and, that when I die: I not only will love You but experience it in my heart. Amen.

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Sleeping Bag Initiative

The College’s efforts seek to respond to Pope Francis’ invitation to serve the poor right here in the Eternal City.

How can we better serve the poor in Rome?

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R E V. M R . DAV I D E X N E R ‘ 1 6, D I O C E S E O F SA N D I EG O

his was the question that the deacons of the St. Lawrence Pantry asked each other at the beginning of the academic year. We all knew that we had before us a great opportunity to serve “the true treasures of the Church” as St. Lawrence himself once referred to the poor, and we wanted to find new ways to do so, but the how was proving to be strangely elusive.

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However, when Erin Kochivar ’16 (Colorado Springs) reached out to the Missionaries of Charity at Dono di Maria here in Rome, things crystalized as the sisters told us of a practical need that we could help provide: sleeping bags. One-hundred twenty sleeping bags to be exact.

Then the Missionaries of Charity at San Gregorio informed us of how many of the people they help on a daily basis need very basic necessities, such as toothbrushes or other toiletries.

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All of us see and interact with the poor on our way to class every day, and it is a common experience to wish that we could do something concrete to help them with their real problems.

Finally, “How” had been answered.

It did not take much to get people excited about helping out, especially with Christmas approaching. All of us see and interact with the poor on our way to class every day, and it is a common experience to wish that we could do something concrete to help them with their real problems.

The plan was devised to trust the generosity of the men in the house and get the Missionaries of Charity what they said they needed while providing the men of the NAC the opportunity to pitch in: we would make 200 care packages for the Missionaries working at San Gregorio and order the 120 sleeping bags the Missionaries at Dono di Maria had requested. Both items were given barcodes at KNAC, our in-house convenience store, so that seminarians and priests could “purchase” them for distribution at a later date. Around twenty seminarians then helped put together approximately 200 “Christmas gift bags” filled with toiletries and, to add a bit of Christmas cheer, some candy. We kept 40 to 50 of the care packages here on campus at the St. Lawrence Pantry for men to

Deacon Erin Kochivar ‘16 (Colorado Springs) inside the shelter run by the Missionaries of Charity

distribute to the poor themselves on their way to school, and the rest we delivered to the Missionaries at San Gregorio. The sleeping bags, after a slight logistical hang-up, arrived towards the end of Christmas break, and about a dozen seminarians delivered them to the Missionaries at Dono di Maria on January 9.

The whole experience provided the NAC community with a great opportunity to do something very practical and helpful for the poor

Deacon David Exner ‘16 (San Diego), Fr. Jack Schrader ‘15 (Fall River), and Ben Pitre ‘18 (Lafayette) taking the sleeping bags down to Dono di Maria

of Rome: to meet people where they are and to give them something that would concretely help them during the cold winter months. The response from the house was encouraging. I lost track of the number of times that people came up to me asking of other ways they could get involved and help out, and even sometimes of guests that had visited the College and heard of the “sleeping bag drive” and wanted to help in some way. The generosity displayed by all of the seminarians and priests who helped out in various ways – from Deacon Erin Kochivar’s running around and coordinating with the sisters, to Fr. Peter Harman’s driving a van crammed full with seminarians and 150 gift bags over to San Gregorio, to everyone else who quietly sacrificed their time and resources to provide some comfort to the poor living on the streets – cannot be overstated. The deacon St. Lawrence was martyred in part for his defiance towards an imperial prefect when, after being instructed to bring him “the treasures of the Church” presented him instead with the poorest of the poor. To see that same sentiment echoed in the actions of so many men at the NAC is inspiring. n ROMAN ECHOES 2016 • VOLUME 20: ISSUE 3

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INSET: Deacon Greg Gerhart and Fr. Andrew Mattingly in the studio as they prepare yet another CatholicBytes podcast.

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A Catechetical Podcast for Busy Catholics on the Go R E V. M R . G R EG G E R H A RT ' 1 6, D I O C E S E O F AU ST I N

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ware of the ever increasing amount of media vying for our attention, three seminarians at the North American College sought to provide a means for effective and efficient Catholic formation. The result: “Catholic Bytes” – a catechetical podcast for busy Catholics on the go. Catholic Bytes began publishing episodes on June 29, 2015, and the podcast has seen quick success. As of March 2016, only eight months from its beginning, the podcast boasts over 40,000 downloads per month and continues to grow. Now a non-profit organization, Catholic Bytes was asked by the Pontifical Council for the New Evangelization to provide a video and audio guide for pilgrims entering through the Holy Door of St. Peter’s during the Jubilee Year of Mercy, a project available in seven languages at www.misericordia.media.

With more initiatives soon to come, the quick success of Catholic Bytes is due in part to the unique nature of the ongoing original podcast. With 450+ episodes planned, the finished product will provide a full, systematic treatment of the faith, covering each division of Catholic theology, including Scripture, Church history, morals,

apologetics, and even commentary on current events. The podcast distinguishes itself by being short and dynamic. Each episode is less than ten minutes long and takes the form of a conversation between the host and the guest. Our guests are usually fellow PNAC seminarians or priests as well as experts in the topic being discussed. The host summarizes the episode in a few points at the end of the podcast and offers listeners directions for resources to learn more.

It is a gem of an opportunity to share the beauty of the Catholic faith, an opportunity that Catholic Bytes has taken and from which thousands have benefitted.

The project owes its success in greater part, however, to the unique circumstances that studying for the priesthood in Rome provides. Where else would you find 250 zealous, intelligent, and dynamic speakers living in one house, studying the faith, and desiring to share it with the world?

With the guidance of Msgr. Anthony Figueiredo, spiritual director at the College, and Frs. George Elliott and Andrew Mattingly, we laid the foundations of the project in the fall

of 2014 along with Cecilia O’Reilly and Leslie Knopf, classmates of Frs. Elliott and Mattingly who study Church Communications at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross. Providence also brought seminarians John Lamansky and Paul-Michael Piega to create an outstanding website and professional graphics as well as John and Ashley Noronah, experts in Church media living in Rome, to advise and provide quality controls before publishing episodes. Among those featured on the podcast, Frs. Conrad Murphy and Timothy Furlow, experts in history, law, and moral theology, have contributed a substantial number of the nearly 100 episodes published thus far.

These men and women, along with several other friends and students of the College, all agree that the Roman experience is too good to keep to ourselves. It is a gem of an opportunity to share the beauty of the Catholic faith, an opportunity that Catholic Bytes has taken and from which thousands have benefitted. Listen for yourself at

www.catholicbytespodcast.com, or find us on Twitter and Facebook to help spread the word so that more and more may come to encounter the love of Christ in the Church. n ROMAN ECHOES 2016 • VOLUME 20: ISSUE 3

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New Deacon

Deacon Casey Sanders '17 (Louisville) baptizing his father during this year's Easter Vigil at St. Augustine Church in Leopold, Indiana

A Deacon's First Holy Week

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BY R E V. M R . C A S E Y SA N D E R S ‘ 1 7, A R C H D I O C E S E O F LO U I SV I L L E

arly last spring, I was talking to my father about my upcoming ordination, and all the preparation it was going to take for me to get ready for my big day. As an immediate follow-up, he said something I had been waiting to hear for a long time: “I guess it’s time I become Catholic, but I’ve never been baptized. What do I need to do?”

My time in seminary has shown me the profound influence seminarians and priests unwittingly have on the

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People of God in our joyful sacrifice to follow Jesus Christ. Many of my brothers here were physicians, lawyers, rocket scientists, teachers, and engineers. Yet, they felt the call and left everything behind to follow Him. And, these sacrifices do not go unnoticed – our Lord sees to it.

Though there was nothing special about my own sacrifice, it nonetheless spoke to my mother and twin brother – with the help of God’s grace. Before their own conversion to the Catholic Church

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One day after an RCIA session, my father told me that he was talking to the RCIA coordinator and my father told him, “My son will soon be a fisher of men, and to him, I’m the biggest fish in the sea.”

Deacon Brad Jantz '17 (Birmingham) receiving the Laying on of Hands by Bishop Robert Baker during his diaconate ordination on April 2nd.

four years ago, they witnessed a change in me as I left behind my career and moved away to seminary.

What, to me, seemed like a natural step in my spiritual journey after

a number of years of prayerful discernment, to them seemed like a recipe for disaster. “Why would a man leave behind a career to become a Catholic priest?” they surely asked themselves. Nonetheless, they held their breath and observed from afar a joy radiating from me that they had never before seen. I had finally found, so it seemed to them, what I had been looking for: a life lived for Jesus Christ. They wanted it, too, and God used my simple, yet joyful sacrifice – and the same joyful sacrifices of my other brother seminarians – to give them the courage to pursue a life in the Catholic Church.

Three years after my mother’s conversion, my father had had ample time to witness this same change not only within me, but, in particular, within my mother. Her faith and commitment to her newfound faith intrigued him and finally compelled him to say to himself, “I want what she and Casey have.” My approaching

Deacon Luke Syse '17 (Madison), pictured with his parents and Bishop Robert C. Morlino C'90 after his Ordination to the Diaconate during Easter Week.

(Right) Deacon Michael Friedel '17 (Springfield in Ilinois) celebrating with Bishop Thomas Paprocki, Bishop of Springfield, after his diaconate ordination on April 1st at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

ordination became an occasion for him to take the big step of starting RCIA in the fall of last year so that he could enter the Catholic Church at this year’s Easter Vigil.

One day after an RCIA session, my father told me that he was talking to the RCIA coordinator and my father told him, “My son will soon be a fisher of men, and to him, I’m the biggest fish in the sea.” And so, what an awesome privilege it was to be the one to baptize him at this year’s Easter Vigil, just one week after my own ordination – God had finally given me the catch I had dreamt of. I will never forget when the celebrating priest gave me the Missal and asked me to instruct my newly baptized father, “You have been enlightened by Christ.

Walk always as a child of the light and keep the flame of faith alive in your heart. When the Lord comes, may you go out to meet him with all the saints in the heavenly kingdom.” n

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Mission to Central America

Msgr. Joseph Chapel (third from left), pilgrimage director, and the group enjoying the hills of Honduras during this past Christmas break.

A Christmas Cultural Exchange in Central America

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B RA N D O N D E TO M A ’ 1 8, A R C H D I O C E S E O F LO U I SV I L L E

t is fitting that in the Year of Mercy this past December, in the early hours of the morning, eight blurry-eyed seminarians headed to Central America through a grant from the Aid to the Church in Need Foundation.

During our first week, we made our “home base” in the sleepy mountain village of Guajiquiro in rural Honduras. Our task was simple…to be missionaries of Christ. Throughout

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the first week, each day was different with no set schedule in what we were supposed to do. Each day brought new challenges and adventures…and that was good.

Working in small groups, we set off to visit the various aldeas (small isolated villages) many miles from the parish at Guajiquiro. I worked with the children, singing, dancing, and laughing throughout the day. After Mass, it was off to a different aldea where

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Our faith in Christ, who became poor, and was always close to the poor and the outcast, is the basis of our concern…of society’s most neglected members.

we got to interact with a whole new community, give our vocation stories, and speak of the faith.

My most memorable encounter occurred on Christmas Eve. During the communion service, I was holding one of the candles before the Blessed Sacrament. The deacon had invited anyone who wanted to come and kneel before the Blessed Sacrament and offer their intentions before the Lord. One woman approached on her knees with tears as she prayed. She never looked at the Sacrament directly due to her personal reverence. Her piety and devotion was awe-inspiring.

Never had I witnessed such personal love for Christ in such an up-close and private way. Overall, the sacraments were celebrated in abundance from confessions, baptisms, weddings, anointings, and the Eucharist throughout many aldeas.

The second week was spent in El Salvador at the Aldea Infantil San Antonio. As I passed under the front gate into the orphanage door, I remember thinking of something

feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, and sheltering the homeless.

Left to Right: Vinhson Nguyen ‘18 (Phoenix), Brandon DeToma ‘18 (Louisville), and Cesar Izquierdo ’18 (Yakima) stand outside one of the schools they visited.

Pope Francis said on mercy. He said: “Our faith in Christ, who became poor, and was always close to the poor and the outcast, is the basis of our concern…of society’s most neglected members.” The orphanage, under the direction of religious sisters, is home to children from infancy to high school age. It is designed to be a home, a shelter from their troubled past. The sisters there perform the corporal works of mercy, especially

Over the next three days, each of us was able to become a part of the community and model to the children how to be strong, positive adults.

Whether through a game of futbol, eating pizza with them, or sitting next to them in Mass, the children wanted to be with us and be like us. We were present to them, but, just as importantly, they were present to us.

A nursing home resident entertains Cesar Jaramillo-Palacio ‘17 (Paterson) and Brandon DeToma ’18 (Louisville) with a story.

Additionally, we had the opportunity to visit a retirement care facility. We listened to their life stories and shared a meal with them. On the day of our visit, a member of their community had died, so we were able to be present during a funeral Mass. We witnessed the full journey of life and were reminded of the human dignity of both the youth and the elderly.

The group poses after a children's Mass and pizza party in San Miguel, El Salvador just few days after Christmas.

A takeaway from the experience and one that is fitting in this Year of Mercy is to reflect on how I am going to be more Christ-like to others and how I can reach out to the neglected. This experience has brought the corporal works of mercy to life for us. n

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FAREWELL, MONSIGNOR

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WELCOME,

FATHER

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FR. HARMAN Fr. Harman preaching to the community during the Good Friday liturgy. INSET: Fr. Harman poses with his bishop, Bishop Thomas Paprocki, and other seminarians and clergy from the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.

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Our New Shepherd

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R E V. M R . M I C H A E L F R I E D E L ‘ 1 7, D I O C E S E O F S P R I N G F I E L D, I L L I N O I S he men of the College are proud to welcome Fr. Peter Harman as the twenty-third rector of the North American College. Born in 1973 in Quincy, Illinois, located on the historic shores of the Mississippi River, Fr. Harman is the son of Betty and the late Pete Harman. With his three siblings, he grew up in the former parish of St. John the Baptist and graduated from Quincy Notre Dame High School.

Fr. Harman completed his philosophical studies at Saint Meinrad College Seminary in Indiana before making the journey to Rome to attend the Pontifical Gregorian University. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois on July 17, 1999 by the late Bishop Daniel L. Ryan in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Springfield. He then returned to the Alphonsianum in Rome to complete his Licentiate in Sacred Theology through the Pontifical Lateran University.

During the first several years of his priesthood, Fr. Harman was a parochial vicar, first at the Cathedral in downtown Springfield and subsequently at the Parish of St. Agnes, which primarily serves Springfield’s West Side. In 2005, he was sent by now-Archbishop George J. Lucas of Omaha for further studies in Moral Theology at the Catholic University

Fr. Harman and his proud mother, Betty, at his installation banquet on February 28.

of America in Washington, D.C., where he received his Doctorate in Sacred Theology, writing on the topic of St. John Paul II’s contribution to the theology of suffering.

Upon completion of his studies, he returned once again to his diocese as Rector of the Cathedral, where he oversaw its fifteen million dollar renovation during a vacant See. He served there for five years before returning to the College in 2013 as Director of Pastoral Formation, Formation Advisor, and Director of Media Relations, as well as Adjunct Professor of Theology at his alma mater, the Gregorian University.

The priests and faithful of the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois know Fr. Harman to be first and foremost a joyful and excited priest of Jesus Christ, a man of communion and good humor—as do the many priests who serve the College. “He loves to be with people.

That’s been true in his service in the

Diocese of Springfield and it’s been true here at the College,” said Vice Rector of Seminary Life at the College, Fr. Brian Christensen, one of his NAC classmates. Fr. Daniel Hanley, Director of Admissions at the College, adds, “He has many of the external gifts necessary to lead (intelligence, leadership and administrative skills, public speaking),” but notes that it is “humility that allows him to rely on God” which will ultimately make Fr. Harman a great leader of this seminary community.

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki, the current bishop of Springfield in Illinois, told the seminarians and friends of the College gathered at Fr. Harman’s installation in February: “I knew him to be a good priest and a dedicated pastor of our Cathedral parish.” Noting that Quincy is known to Illinoisans as the “Gem City,” he added that “Fr. Harman has a heart of gold. So our diocese is sharing with you one of our gems. I give you a pastor—a priest who thinks as a pastor, serves as a pastor, and loves as a shepherd cares for his flock.”

The men of the College are no less aware of Fr. Harman’s joy, authenticity, humility, and genuine model of priestly consecration. We look forward to his years of service as pastor of this College! Ad multos annos. n

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Faithful, Joyful Servants:

An Interview with Fr. Peter Harman

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n light of Fr. Peter Harman’s recent installation as the 23rd rector of the Pontifical North American College, Roman Echoes sat down with him to learn about his plans as the new Rector.

formed, devout, and a good priest, but when it comes down to it, he should be willing to give himself over for the community, as Christ did for us. Anything we do has to be a reflection of that.

Q: What are your immediate plans for the College?

It’s symbolized in the Eucharist: Jesus is giving Himself literally, pouring Himself out for us. And the priest stands in His Person in this great moment in the sacramental life of the Church. So what the priest does has to become what the priest is. Those aren’t just flowery words; in his sacramental life and his whole ministerial life, the priest should be willing to pour himself out in love for his people, in love for God, in obedience to his bishop, and to do it all joyfully.

The first thing a Rector has to do, as in any leadership role, is to assess the things that we’re doing well, and assess the things we can be doing even better.

Really, to unite all of our efforts around the four pillars, and to see if we can integrate those pillars more effectively.

For example, seeing that a man’s academic pursuits are always done with a pastoral eye, and that he’s praying about the things that he’s learning. It’s not a matter of new things, but of responding to the changes in the culture as they create new challenges or opportunities, and doing whatever we can do to equip our men to be faithful, joyful servants at home - whatever tools we can give them.

Q: What are some concrete markers by which you hope to gauge whether formation is heading in a successful direction?

You’ve got to stay in contact with the bishops back home, and to solicit

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Fr. Peter Harman having some fun with seminarians as he ensures that everyone is enjoying the meal. Also pictured: Ben Berhorst '19 (Jefferson City, MO) and Trevor Downey '17 (Kansas City, MO).

from them how the recent graduates are doing. By and large, we get such positive responses to that, but if there are things that they think the seminary program should be doing, we need to be open to that. We’ve got to stay careful not to insulate ourselves, but to ask about the recent graduates: “How successful are they in ministry? How supportive are they in ministry?”

Q: What does it mean to form a man after the heart of Jesus Christ?

To form a man after the heart of Jesus Christ, you want him to be selfless.

You want a priest to be intellectually

Q: What are you most looking forward to as Rector?

One of the things I’m most looking forward to is being at the diaconate ordination. Obviously, that’s true every year, but particularly this fall, when it will be the men that I arrived here with a couple of years ago when I joined the formation team. To be able to present them and to recommend them for orders will be a very powerful moment for me. n

A CANDID

LOOK

inset: Father and the North American College community praying the Rosary in the piazza of St. Peter’s during the Year of Mercy

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Life at the College

Faculty attending the Episcopal Ordination of Archbishop Peter Wells '91 (Tulsa) at St. Peter's Basilica on the Feast of St. Joseph, March 19th. Archbishop Wells was ordained by His Holiness, Pope Francis, and will now serve as the Apostolic Nuncio to South Africa.

Left to Right: The last four ICTE Directors, Msgr. Anthony Figuredo C'00, Fr. Terrance Morgan '76 (St. Augustine), Bishop Robert Evans '73 C'89 (Providence), and Fr. James Sullivan, OP, posing with the new Rector, Fr. Peter Harman ‘99 (Springfield i Illinois).

Bernardo Rios-Sanjines '19 (Springfield in Massachusetts) looking to make a pass during the Martyr's Clericus Cup match.

Fr. Brendan Hurley, SJ celebrating the installation of the new Rector with a number of North American College priests and Seminarians.

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Left to Right: Shane Nunes ‘18 (Bridgeport) and Frank Furman ‘18 (Springfield in Massachusetts) leaving some parting words of gratitude for Bishop Checchio during the Farewell Banquet.

Deacon Joe Grady '16 (Denver) and Deacon Daniele Russo '16 (Sydney) holding the image of Our Lady as the College recites the rosary in St. Peter's Square.

(Center in rose) Fr. Peter Harman '99 (Springfield in Illinois) preparing to celebrate Mass for the first time as Rector with the Casa Santa Maria community.

The First Year Men celebrating their class' frisbee tournament championiship victory.

Living up to the reputation earned over the past few years as "Super Fans," the men of the College brought the super hero costumes out of hibernation for another season of Martyr's soccer.

Ethan Hokamp ‘19 (La Crosse) advancing the frisbee while Austin Faur ‘19 (Raleigh) and Deacon Greg Gerhart ‘16 (Austin) take part in the action.

Deacon John Wilson '16 (New York) leading community Stations of the Cross in the Immaculate Conception Chapel during Lent.

Left to Right: The Rector, John LoCoco ’18, Stephen Buting ‘19, John Baumgardner ‘17, Bishop James Checchio ‘92 C’97, John Stollenwerk, Cardinal James Harvey ’76, Fr. Nathan Minatt ’14, Fr. Kerry Abbot OFM Conv., and Fr. Brian Christensen ‘99

As part of the Year of Mercy events, the North American College community led the rosary at St. Peter's Square on Sunday, March 13, 2016.

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religious vocations run in the family

My Sister is a Sister • • • •

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S R . M A RY T H O M A S, O.P. , S R . M O N I C A , O.P. , A N D S R . M A RY E ST H E R , O.P.

ometimes, religious vocations seem to run in the family. Recently, three of the College’s Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, spoke with seminarians whose sisters are pursuing consecrated life. As we see below, these siblings felt no direct push toward a religious or priestly vocation. Still, their families’ faith, sacramental life, prayer and unconditional love certainly formed these sisters and brothers to be open to God’s will.

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David Wheeler

“If I put my trust in Him then I knew I would be happy, but…religious life?” These were the words of David’s sister, Monica, after a “series of hard-fought ‘yes’s’ to the Spirit” as a Salesian missionary volunteer: “I honestly thought that all I wanted was to know God’s will, but... when you actually open yourself up in that way, you lose a lot of what most would call freedom and that is really, really hard.”

Nun © istockphoto, Studio-Annika

• • • •

“I honestly thought that all I wanted was to know God’s will, but... when you actually open yourself up in that way, you lose a lot of what most would call freedom and that is really, really hard.”

She asked herself how she could “not want something so much and yet be so peaceful at the same time.” But, “God changes people.” He makes His will our own, if we let Him. David commented: “She has most certainly found her happiness in the truly loving and joyful community she is with.” Moreover, he has noticed that he and Monica’s conversations are marked by their future consecrations: when David entrusts to her particular prayer intentions, she understands like no other.

Dominic Rankin

It was a simple thing, just a quick visit in the church with his mom and sister on the way home from tee-ball practice. He knelt, a young boy with cap askew, his sweaty brow glistening in the votive lights at the foot of St. Joseph. A quick prayer, a genuflection on his grass-stained knee and he was on his way. No words – but he was changed.

David Wheeler ‘19 (Lexington) shares a hug with his sister Monica shortly before her entrance into religious life.

The Rankin family together for the celebration of Sister Mary Thomas’ first profession.

He noted that it is especially difficult for a family to let go of a daughter. Living through the seasons of detachment made his leaving for seminary less challenging: his sister left a smooth wake on which he would sail.

She deeply loved her family and cherished her every moment with them, but she took her parents’ example and words seriously – to take time for personal prayer and to discern God’s will for her life.

For several years, she had known He was inviting her to be His bride.

Not only that, but to the cloistered life of a Dominican nun.

Her brother, who years ago knelt in a dimmed chapel, was impacted by her

courageous act. She did it... she really said “yes” and entered the cloister. He could no longer ignore the gentle tug he felt toward the priesthood since his tee-ball days. It was time to act.

James Downey

Sister Mary Esther’s vocation was marked by a constant searching and openness which prepared her to give a whole-hearted response to God when He made His will clear. James was struck by the very deliberate search she made for the community to which God was calling her. Their parents encouraged them always to remain close to God and to pursue His will.

His sister’s entrance into the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist paved the way for James to answer his call. He noted that it is especially difficult for a family to let go of a daughter. Living through the seasons of detachment made his leaving for seminary less challenging: his sister left a smooth wake on which he would sail. n

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THE RECTOR'S

DINNER Guests show their appreciation for the entertainment during the dinner provided by the seminarians. inset Rector’s Award recipients Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Busch from Laguna Hills, CA with Cardinal Edwin O’Brien CSM ’76 (Grand Master of Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem).

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A Moment of Gratitude

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BY D R E W O L S O N ‘ 1 8, D I O C E S E O F M A D I S O N ratitude always characterizes the annual Rector’s Dinner, this year being no exception. It runs every possible direction between seminarians, faculty members, guests, and honorees. Even the Rector’s personal address to the men before the dinner highlighted this central theme of the night. It is evident that all have much for which to be thankful.

Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, Archbishop Emeritus of Washington, escorted by Fr. Matthew Fish ’15 (Washington) as he is greeted by seminarians serving the dinner.

Seminarians have this building, the personal support, and the opportunity to study in Rome, thanks to those in attendance and beyond. Only through the generosity of others can this place exist. And so, this place can provide refuge after long days of class and walks through the busy Roman city, a refuge where men can recollect themselves, go before the Lord, and prepare for the next day. So, too, this place serves as a base of operations to go out again and engage the historic city of faith that not only surrounds but enters with the men. The generosity of others makes this possible. For this

only begins to show the gratitude of the faculty and students of the Pontifical North American College.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan ’76 (New York) with Fr. Peter Harman ’99 (Springfield in Illinois) and his secretary Lory Mondaini

reason, the seminarians offer this evening for those who support them.

Whether those invited simply come to dinner or give support fiscally or spiritually, all receive thanks from the young men, all in black. Even those not in attendance remain in mind as students serve, sing, clean, coordinate, and in the end celebrate the event. “Man of Constant Sorrow,” “O, Sole Mio,” and “New York, New York” entertain those who attend, but they also show the time and effort sacrificed by the singers to give thanks. However, all these simple acts of thanks shrink before the prayers offered by these future priests throughout the year.

The support received by the seminary truly overwhelms, particularly that given by the honorees this year, Tim and Steph Busch, and Archbishop Carlo Viganò. The honorees this year have sustained and promoted the good of the Church here at the seminary and beyond including founding institutes of study, supporting dioceses, and simply being friends among us. This award

But, the expressions of gratitude by those sitting at table are the most humbling. Many come to dinner neither for food nor for entertainment, but to simply see the young men for whom they care so much. They are grateful for sacrifices already made and not yet made. For them the men represent hope that God still provides and will provide for future of the Church. They want to offer a thank you to seminarians,

The Rector’s award is presented to Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, by Archbishop John Myers ’67 (Newark) and Fr. Peter Harman ’99 (Springfield in Illinois).

words of encouragement, or just a firm pat on back assuring a man of support.

In turn, the seminarian has another thing for which to be thankful: God has given him not just the monetary support, but the whole-hearted love of faithful Catholics to sustain him through studies and his future as a priest. Thank you, everyone, for all that you sacrifice for us; it is not without reward. n

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Echoing Back

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n previous editions of Roman Echoes, it was common practice for there to be an an annual “annals,” a humorous recounting of the year’s events. Below, we pay tribute with an excerpt of the “annals” taken from 1966 – just as the Second Vatican Council was drawing to a close.

Re-Echoes 1966: The Year in Review

Conciliar Rome and Post-Conciliar Rome. Times of change.

Times of “aggiornamento”. So much has happened. So much is about to happen. After four years, the Fourth Theologians can view St. Peter’s without the episcopal

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stalls, and walk at their leisure through the nave. This our “conciliar” class — four years with the Council. These men leave with a great responsibility, as all of us will who have lived here through all or part of these four years. We’re certainly not bishops, but we share with them the “spirit of Vatican II.” We have experienced the bustle, the activity, the thoughts, the excitement of being at the center of these Council proceedings. The bishops have departed. They have gone home, taking with them a great experience. So shall we. Post-Conciliar Rome — the Post-Conciliar world — the preamble to Vatican III.

•••••••••••••••••••••••

•••••••••••••••••••••••

•••••••••••••••••••••••

It was early May that [the Rector] Bishop Reh announced plans for the renovation of the chapel sanctuary—in accordance with the new Constitution on the Liturgy. There would be an altar facing the people, a reredos, ambos, and new furniture. It was to be accomplished during the summer months. We all sat back and speculated as to what our house architect would come up with.

The first official bum-run [College excursion] day was set for October 10th, and on October 15th the school year officially began with Mass at St. Ignatius. It was interesting to see the expressions on the faces of the First Theologians as they filed out of the Greg after their first four classes: bewilderment? disbelief? theology? despair? Latin?

December 5th: renovation finally completed, our new coram populo altar, a gift from Cardinal Spellman, was consecrated by Bishop Reh. The altar, table-like, stands in the center of the sanctuary supported by two bronze pillars. […] The overall change left everyone quite pleased and satisfied.

••••••••••••••••••••••• The morning of October 4th saw us all gathered around the TV set in the recreation room watching the arrival of Pope Paul in New York. It was an unusual sensation — to be in Rome, only several blocks from the Vatican, watching the Holy Father on our own native soil.

••••••••••••••••••••••• Early in November Bishop Reh ordained the Fourth Year men to diaconate in the College chapel, and several days later Bishop Fulton Sheen gave us a day of recollection.

••••••••••••••••••••••• By late November the new lounge had been completed, and the furniture was hauled in. For the first time in one-hundred and seven years: soft chairs — lots and lots of them!

••••••••••••••••••••••• The Holy Father had set the closing date of the Council for December 8th.

With the authority of over two-thousand bishops, accompanied by the prayers of every nun in the world, the sun was out and the ceremony was held in the Piazza. […] At ten-thirty a.m.

Pope Paul formally declared Vatican II completed. We were now living in the post-Conciliar age.

••••••••••••••••••••••• On April 1st, the Italian hierarchy commended the use of clerical suits by the Italian clergy. This aroused our expectations, and soon there was speculation as to a possible new house suit: army style, with buttons on the side, and a military hat? Or possibly just a simple blue blazer, with red cummerbund and white bow-tie? At any rate, it was a welcome surprise, and we rejoice with the Italian clergy.

••••••••••••••••••••••• The weather during Holy Week was warm and sunny, and the full use of the vernacular in our liturgy was extremely moving and also very satisfying. n

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Running Across Italy

After a long day of running across Italy: Front row: Fr. Tyler Bischoff ‘15 (Gaylord), Michael Zimmerman ‘17 (Boston), Bobby Kilner ‘17 (Washington), Josh Meier ‘18 (Denver), Dcn. Michael Niemczak ‘16 (Santa Fe). Back Row: Tom Gramc ’17 (Pittsburgh), Jamie Hickman ’18 (Richmond), Fr. Scott Emerson ‘15 (Madison), Fr. John Paul Mitchell ‘13 (Milwaukee), Dcn. Adam Potter ‘16 (Pittsburgh)

The Roman Run

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C H R I ST I A N H U E B N E R ‘ 1 9, A R C H D I O C E S E O F WA S H I N GTO N

t’s not unusual to see t-shirts on the campo sportivo boasting about the College’s popular Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot: “The Only 5K to Go Around a Sovereign Nation.”

Lesser known is that a group of NAC seminarians and priests, not content merely to run around the walls of Vatican City, have set their sights on a bigger course: Italy. This spring, for the second year running, the “Roman Run” featured a two-team coast-to-coast relay race across the Italian peninsula in a single day.

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Michael Zimmerman, the Roman Run’s organizer, said he got the idea for the race after hearing about similar team distance events in the United States. “In praying about it the idea of running across Italy came up,” Zimmerman said. “I measured the distances and it seemed reasonable to do it in a day if we had two teams and started at opposite ends” of the country.

Race day began at 4am with Mass at the College. Immediately after that, the two teams piled into vans and sped

Nun © istockphoto, Studio-Annika

• • • •

This spring, for the second year running, the “Roman Run” featured a two-team coast-to-coast relay race across the Italian peninsula in a single day.

off to their respective starting points on the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian coasts. At sunrise, the first runner on each coast dipped a finger in the sea and took off for the middle of the country.

Thomas Gramc, a two-time Run veteran, remembers how impressed he and his teammates were with the beauty of the countryside they crossed.

“It was amazing,” he said. “I don’t know if there’s a place like it in the United States, where you can go from ocean to prairies and plains to mountains all in a couple of hours.”

The seminarians designed the course to follow an ancient Roman trade route, which offered some additional surprises. “You’d pull off the side of the road,” Gramc remembers, “and there’d be the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater just lying there, with trees growing out of the rocks.”

Not all surprises were quite so welcome. “People got lost all the time,” said Gramc. The official Italian maps were not always a help, either, he said. “There are some state routes that don’t actually exist anymore.”

Deacon Adam Potter ‘16 (Pittsburgh) and Deacon Michael Niemczak ‘16 (Santa Fe) taking in the view after running up a mountain.

This year, the Roman Run raised prayers and money for Christians in Syria facing existential threats amidst war and Islamic terrorism.

Phantom roads, mountains and all, spirits were high throughout the day.

“It really felt like brotherhood,” said Deacon Michael Niemczak, one of the support-van drivers. “It had all the charm of a road trip,” Gramc agreed.

Some of the best parts of the day, he said, were riding in the van between sections of the course. “You’d grab a peanut butter sandwich and basically chill out for the next three hours.”

The best part of that brotherhood, said Niemczak, was that it was fraternity looking beyond itself. “What sealed the deal,” he said, “was taking what was naturally good and making it a work of charity as well.”

This year, the Roman Run raised prayers and money for Christians in Syria facing existential threats amidst war and Islamic terrorism. Fr. Lewi Barakat, a fifth-year priest at the Casa Santa Maria, whose family originates from Syria, emphasized how important solidarity with brothers and sisters in Christ is for the Syrian Church today.

Zimmerman added: “You see what’s going on and you have to do your little part to help.” The Roman Run is “more than just something fun,” he said, “but rather a way of glorifying God and helping our fellow man.” n

Fr. Scott Emerson ‘15 (Madison) running to complete his segment of the race.

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Archbishop Joseph Augustine Di Noia, O.P., Assistant Secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, practicing what he preaches as he gives a homily during a Lenten Station Mass at St. Peter's Basilia.

Carl J. Peter

LECTURE

SCOTT LEFOR ’19, DIOCESE OF BISMARCK

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ach year a speaker is invited to address the seminary community concerning preaching in the Carl J. Peter Lecture. In this year’s lecture, entitled “Preaching the Mysteries of the Faith: The Wisdom of the Homiletic Directory,” Archbishop J. Augustine Di Noia, O. P., discussed the liturgical character of the

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homily as presented in the Homiletic Directory, which was published by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments in 2015.

Archbishop Di Noia, who currently serves as Assistant Secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, is a priest of the Dominican Province of St. Joseph. This was his second Carl J. Peter Lecture, the previous being his 2008 presentation entitled, “Clearing Away the Barriers: Preaching to Young Adults Today.”

Archbishop Di Noia noted that the Second Vatican Council sought to integrate the homily into the liturgy, and this integration helps to provide a better understanding of the general character of the homily itself. He asserted that the factor that “essentially distinguishes the homily from other forms of instruction is its liturgical context.” The homily,

then, it not an interruption of the liturgy of the Mass, but rather is part of the liturgy. As is stated in the Introduction to the Lectionary, §24, “Through the readings and homily Christ’s Paschal Mystery is proclaimed; through the sacrifice of the Mass it becomes present.”

Such a liturgical character has implications concerning the preparation and general content of the homily. Concerning the latter, Archbishop Di Noia noted that the homily must go beyond the mere offering of an insight into the readings followed by a moral exhortation. Such an approach “may be ‘practical’,” he noted, “but it is not sufficient,” lest “Christ is seen to be simply a good person who provides us with an example to follow.” Rather, the “homily reflects on the meaning of the readings and prayers of a given celebration in light of the Paschal Mystery, and it leads the assembly to the Eucharistic celebration in which they have communion in the Paschal Mystery itself.”

Concerning preparation, he noted that this approach to the homily demands a particular way of discipleship from the preacher. First, it requires a life of liturgical prayer.

After recommending lectio divina “as a way to meditate on the biblical readings and liturgical texts,” he noted that “pray[ing] the Church’s liturgy attentively . . . will hone our ability to prepare homilies that call people to a deeper faith in Jesus Christ.” Furthermore, this approach requires that the preacher’s life, including the “day-to-day pastoral interactions [in which] we encounter the faith of God’s people, and perhaps help them to realize that faith more clearly in themselves,” be “shaped by the Paschal Mystery of Christ.”

Archbishop Di Noia’s lecture provided the seminary community with helpful insights into the Church’s understanding of the homily, noting the importance of both viewing it as part of the liturgy and preaching the mysteries of the faith.

For more information regarding the Carl J. Peter Lecture, including resources from previous lectures, visit the Pontifical North American College’s website at pnac.org/the-seminary/the-carl-j-peter-lecture/ Students and faculty at the 2016 Carl J. Peter lecture.

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Spring Play

The leads of the play living in separate worlds; from left: John LoCoco ‘18 (Milwaukee), Deacon David Exner ‘16 (San Diego), Ben Petty ‘19 (Washington), Will Banowsky ‘19 (Oklahoma City), Colin Jones ‘18 (St. Paul-Minneapolis).

The Chosen

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B E N P E T T Y ’ 1 9, A R C H D I O C E S E O F WA S H I N GTO N

n March 11 and 12, the NAC community assembled for the annual spring play.

This year, it was The Chosen, based on Chaim Potok’s novel of the same name and adapted for the stage by Aaron Posner. The director was Peter Ascik ’17 (Charlotte), with Rick Lefaivre ’17 (Portland) serving as assistant director.

The story revolves around two Jewish boys growing up in Brooklyn at the end of World War II. One of them, Danny Saunders, played by Colin

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Jones ’18 (St. Paul-Minneapolis), comes from a Hasidic family, where his father, Reb Saunders, played by Will Banowsky ’19 (Oklahoma City), is the rabbi and the pillar of their community. The other boy, Reuven Malter, played by John LoCoco ’18 (Milwaukee), comes from an observant and devout non-Hasidic family. His father, David Malter, played by Deacon David Exner ’16 (San Diego), is a politically active scholar who uses modern critical methods to study and teach Judaism.

The friendship that develops between the two boys is strained by their

• • • •

Our encounter with this play left us with a greater understanding of those whom St. John Paul II often called “our elder brothers,” and with a new perspective on our own discernment.

fathers’ fierce convictions and the social and political upheaval in Judaism in the 1940’s. The course of this friendship across those turbulent years is narrated by an older version of Reuven, played by Ben Petty ’19 (Washington). Deacon Michael Dion ’16 (Seattle) and Michael Zimmerman ’17 (Boston) play the different characters from their neighborhood.

It was a joy and a challenge to produce this play. It was a challenge to find the right costumes for the Hasidic characters and to familiarize ourselves with the vocabulary of this world. Our sound team, headed by Stephen Logue ’18 (Harrisburg), added a tapestry of music and original radio broadcasts which helped to bring that world to life on our simple and adaptable set.

John LoCoco '18 (Milwaukee) and Colin Jones '18 (St. Paul-Minneapolis) acting out an important scene during a baseball game as Michael Zimmerman '17 (Boston) coaches and Ben Petty '19 (Washington) narrates.

On the surface it may not appear to have much relevance to twenty-first century Catholic seminarians, so why stage it at the College? One important reason is that it is a window into the world of American Judaism that helps us to better understand its complexity and the questions that it has faced and will continue to face.

Furthermore, as we grew more familiar with these questions during rehearsal, we found that they have a profound resonance with our own. How does one remain faithful to an ancient tradition in the light of the demands of the present? How does the light of that tradition inform how we respond to those demands? Finally, these questions unfold in the lives of two young men and profoundly shape how they discern what their vocations will be.

Our encounter with this play left us with a greater understanding of those whom St. John Paul II often called “our elder brothers,” and with a new perspective on our own discernment. It was a joy to find within the world of this play the humor, the tension, and the deep affirmation of a life lived in authentic pursuit of the truth. n

Deacon David Exner ‘16 (San Diego), as the father of John LoCoco ‘18 (Milwaukee) in the play, explains how he already knows the character of Danny Saunders, played by Colin Jones ‘18 (St. Paul-Minneapolis).

Will Banowski ‘19 (Oklahoma City), Colin Jones ‘18 (St. Paul-Minneapolis) playing Hasidic Jews.

ROMAN ECHOES 2016 • VOLUME 20: ISSUE 3

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Lenten Station Churches

In the early morning hours, the pilgrims make their way across the city to one of the many station churches.

A Lenten Pilgrimage with the Saints of Rome

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J E F F R E Y H A N L E Y ’ 1 7, D I O C E S E O F K A L A M A ZO O

hat does it mean to study abroad in Rome? It is an opportunity to expand one’s cultural horizons; it is the chance to experience some of the world’s most beautiful art and architecture by world-renowned artists and sculptors.

However, students studying abroad in Rome during Lent have the opportunity to experience more. Students quickly

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realize that they are not just experiencing a city that lives today as a museum piece, but that Rome is a city that connects all of its wanderers to the ancient communities of its past. All who walk their streets walk the same streets that Caesars, kings, popes, and saints have all walked in ages past (and probably upon some of the same cobblestones). In a particular way during the season of Lent, students have the opportunity to follow in the

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Stephen Marchand ‘18 (Burlington) directing the schola during the station Mass at Sant’Andrea della Valle.

footsteps of the early Church by making what is traditionally called the “Station Church Pilgrimage.”

The practice has its beginnings much deeper than the Pontifical North American College. Early after the legalizing of Christianity by Constantine in 313 AD, the Bishop of Rome began the custom of visiting his parishes on set days of the year. These parishes were soon named stations. According to the writings of St. Ambrose and Tertullian, the word station comes from either the Latin statio or stare, the first meaning “a fortified camp of the Roman army” and the second, “a standing together.” It was at these stations that the earliest Christian community would gather around the Bishop of Rome to celebrate the Eucharist. The event powerfully signifies the unity of the shepherd with his flock.

The custom reached its pinnacle under the pontificate of Leo III (795-816) and included ninety-four stations over ninety-two days of Lent and Easter.

This practice was later discontinued after the Holy Father returned from

Archbishop Jorge Patrón Wong, Secretary for Seminaries of the Congregation for the Clergy, celebrates Mass at SS. Cosmas and Damian with Deacons David Exner ‘16 (San Diego) and Adam Potter ‘16 (Pittsburgh) while Clark Philipp ‘17 (St. Louis) assists and John LoCoco ‘18 (Milwaukee) and Jeff Hanley ‘17 (Kalamazoo) look on.

Avignon in 1378. However, in the nineteenth century, the people of Rome revived the tradition of a pilgrimage to these churches. Today, the priests and seminarians at the Pontifical North American College gather with students and friends at the traditional forty stations for the celebration of the Eucharist.

Lenten practice. These students come from all over the United States and, in large part, are ministered to by the priests, deacons, and seminarians of the Pontifical North American College. Walking the streets at early hours of the morning, there are young, joyful Catholic students retracing the steps of the Early Church.

This year a substantial number of friends and students from outside of the College joined us in observing this

This opportunity to make the Station Church Pilgrimage is not only a chance for the students to systematically see forty of Rome’s most beautiful and ancient churches, it is also a time to encounter the Early Church and see, in a new way, the unbroken Tradition of faith carried from ancient times all the way to today. At each station, the students encounter and gain encouragement from the lives of the saints, experience the rich treasure of theology contained in the art and architecture, and explore the intricacies of the Church’s history. Through the Station Church Pilgrimage, students transform their semester abroad from mere research of the Church into a living experience of the Church, an experience that, in the words of St. Augustine, is “ever ancient and ever new.” n

Seated: Deacon John Kuchinski ‘16 (Harrisburg), Deacon Sean Grismer ‘16 (Rockford), and Jeff Hanley ‘17 (Kalamazoo) with students from their campus ministry apostolate at Thomas More College.

ROMAN ECHOES 2016 • VOLUME 20: ISSUE 3

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Acolyte and Lector Installation

Milestones on the Journey to Holy Orders

BY K Y L E O’CO N N O R ‘ 1 8, D I O C E S E O F R I C H M O N D

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hroughout seminary formation, the Church provides certain milestones to more fully prepare men as they approach Holy Orders. The most significant of these milestones are the men’s reception as a candidate for Holy Orders and his institution as a lector and as an acolyte. Seminarians of the North American College receive candidacy during the summer before their first year at the College. They are instituted as lectors during the winter of their first year. Their institution as acolytes in the spring of their second year is the last of these three milestones.

On January 10, sixty-eight first-year men were instituted as lectors by Bishop Paul Gallagher, and in doing so were called to serve the Church in Mass by proclaiming the Scriptures.

Their institution as lectors was yet another significant milestone for their formation, in a year full of significant milestones. Only five months prior, these sixty-eight men set out from the comfort of home and country and moved to Rome to begin a new chapter in their seminary formation. They had completed their philosophical studies and, upon arriving in Rome, began their studies in theology. This involved not only a new subject matter but also a new

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dress code, as theologians at the North American College wear clerics around the seminary and to class.

In the midst of these other milestones they were experiencing that changed so much — where they lived, what they studied, what they wore — their institution as lectors is significant because the Church has now charged them with serving God and His people in the liturgy. This concrete step closer to Holy Orders is a preparation for their future liturgical service as priests in persona Christi and it is also a present call to, in the words of the prayer by which Bishop Gallagher instituted them as lectors, “be faithful in handing on the word of God, that it may grow strong in the hearts of his people.”

Then on March 13, we at the North American College experienced the next significant milestone on the journey towards Holy Orders as forty-two second year men were instituted as acolytes by Cardinal James Harvey, and thus were charged with serving at the altar during the liturgy. As one of those men, I was particularly struck by the words of the prayer of institution, which concluded with the simple admonition: Make your life worthy of your service at the table of the Lord and of His Church.

These words remind us that as men preparing to be priests after the heart of Jesus Christ, we must follow Him in coming “not to be served but to serve.” Like any genuine act of Christian service, our service at the altar as acolytes must be grounded in love: love of the Lord, especially in the Most Holy Eucharist, love of His Church, and love of His people. We have spent the last several years of our lives as seminarians cultivating these loves in an intentional way. We attend Mass and adore our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament daily. We experience the richness and the depth of the Church’s sacramental graces, history, and intellectual tradition living in the holy city of Rome. We have come to know and to love the people of God in our dioceses and throughout the world during our summer apostolates.

As acolytes, these loves which we have cultivated can flow forth in our service of God and His Church at Mass, which is the source and summit of the Christian life. As we continue to approach ordination, the prayer which the Church gave us as newly instituted acolytes can be our guide: that through God’s grace our lives may be made worthy of the service to which He has called us. n

Institutional Advancement NAC Milestones

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MARK RANDALL, CFRE • EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR his issue of Roman Echoes arrives toward the end of our academic year – our 156th, to be exact. Recent years at the North American College have included significant milestones: capacity enrollment, the completion and dedication of our new tower addition at the Seminary, and a visit from Pope Francis. But few singular events are as noteworthy as the succession of the Rector.

Only twenty-three priests have had the title of Rector since our founding in 1859. Many went on to serve the Church in more prominent capacities, but each was required to fulfill multiple roles as the head of the College.

The NAC Rector must be both an administrator and a pastor; a hospitable host and a trusted manager; a leader and a servant.

The Rector also has a responsibility to ensure that the financial needs of the College are met by attracting philanthropic support. Just as he establishes a personal relationship with each of the 250+ seminarians in residence here, the Rector also must be a personal connection for the thousands of lay and alumni benefactors.

The College is tremendously blessed to have had (recently ordained) Bishop James Checchio ’92 C’97 as Rector for the past ten years. We will benefit from his countless contributions and accomplishments for many years to come. At the same time, we welcome Fr. Peter Harman ’99 as his successor.

Fr. Harman is no stranger to the College community nor to administrative or pastoral leadership. Although just installed in February, he has already spent significant time getting to know friends of the College, chatting with benefactors back in the US, and most recently, hosting his first Rector’s Dinner.

At the Rector’s Dinner, it was encouraging to see so many guests greet Fr. Harman, anxious to learn about him personally, and to get his perspective on what is in store for the College. While planning for the next academic year is still underway, here are a few Advancement priorities to share: • The To Echo Christ initiative continues to move forward. This $40M ten-year plan that was initiated with the Mulva Family gift in 2013 for our new tower addition is already in its second phase. See Fr. Abbott’s article on page 42 for details on the new gymnasium and other renovations.

• Additional smaller scale projects are being identified for sponsorship, especially those that will directly benefit the formation experience of our students.

• Increased communication efforts will try to reach more of our current benefactors and new ones as well, to share the extraordinary story of the North American College.

With over 4,000 living alumni and thousands of lay benefactors, the College is blessed to have such a large extended family. As we begin this new era under the leadership of Fr. Harman, we remain hopeful that God will continue to provide the needed resources for our mission through these generous souls. n

Fr. Harman with guests at the Rector’s Dinner (left, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Waterkotte; right, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Dahlgren)

Economo’s Corner Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Present, Looking to the Future R E V. K E R RY A B B OT T, O F M CO N V.

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ollowing Easter another major construction project will begin at the College.

After nearly 60 years in our “new” location, and almost 200 years of College history, our archive (containing some truly amazing artifacts) has outgrown its present location in the old Administrative Offices hall.

With the opening and blessing last year of our classroom / laboratory tower by Pope Francis and the move of the Institute for Continuing Theological Education (ICTE) to the completely renovated Casa O’Toole in 2010, the “old ICTE” spaces have become available to accommodate our new archive, as well as dedicated rehearsal space for our choir and musicians. This area will also include offices for our archivist and director of liturgical music. These will all be “firsts” in the history of the College, allowing for truly dedicated and professionally designed spaces for both the archive and our wonderful musicians and choir.

As we all know, computer and information technology have exploded in their capabilities and usefulness in our lifetimes. This is no less true in the area of academic research with theological application. With the renovation, expansion and relocation

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by our former Rector, Msgr. James Checchio, and continued by his successor, Fr. Peter Harman in consultation with the College architect.

of our librarians' office in February, space became available to consolidate our student / researcher computers and printers from two disparate locations (one in the basement, another tucked in a large walk-in closet in the library) into one bright, lit-by-nature through floor to ceiling windows with an easy to access location at the library entrance.

This venue will also make computer and printing resources conveniently available to our students as well as the College’s many visiting guests.

While these projects all speak to our past and present, another large project in the final stages of design review is about to become a reality for our future: a new gymnasium. Planned to occupy the old handball courts located between the outdoor basketball court and tennis courts, the gymnasium will more than double the space of the current fitness room located in the basement. The design will be a direct result of an evaluative process begun

I suppose one of the most exciting aspects of these developments’ coming to fruition is the prospect that they will offer enhancements that will assist our seminarians in having healthy minds, bodies, and spirits, principles for holistic and holy living as they strive to respond to God’s call to be healthy and effective shepherds of His people.

I use this one example to illustrate a fact. The College was built well in its day using the best practices available at that time. But, iron pipes rust and electrical wiring can be compromised in our humid climate. Our 10-year Physical Plan is absolutely key to our hope to not just plug leaks, but to ensure the foundation remains solid for years (and thousands of seminarians) to come.

As we strive to mitigate costs, the example above is illustrative of the fact that we must be good stewards of our benefactors’ investment. Your investment is not just about beautiful buildings and grounds, but in caring for the men that will one day care for us. Thank you, truly, for ensuring our solid foundation in faith, hope, love, and mortar! n

2016 Alumni

REUNION

JUNE 21-23, 2016

San Diego, California • Celebration of the Holy Mass by Most Rev. Robert W. McElroy, Bishop of San Diego, at the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá, founded in 1769 by St. Junípero Serra, OFM, the Apostle of California

• Harbor Cruise along the San Diego Bay

• Theological lecture at the Mission Basilica

• Stay downtown at the Hilton San Diego in the historic Gaslamp Quarter – reserve your room by May 22 to receive special Reunion rates

• Celebration of the Holy Mass by Most Rev. Robert H. Brom, Bishop Emeritus of San Diego, at the University of San Diego’s Founders Chapel

All PNAC Alumni Welcome: College, Casa Santa Maria, and Institute for Continuing Theological Education (ICTE)!

For more information and to see who has already registered, please visit www.pnacalumni.org

The Pontifical North American College Office of Institutional Advancement 3211 Fourth Street, NE Washington, D.C. 20017-1194

NON-PROFIT ORG. US. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 144 WALDORF, MD

For more information about the Pontifical North American College, subscription questions, or to learn about ways you can financially support “America’s Seminary in Rome,” please contact Mark Randall, CFRE, Executive Director, Institutional Advancement.

Tel: (202) 541-5411 Fax: (202) 722-8804 Email: pnacdc@pnac.org Website: www.pnac.org

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With joyful thanksgiving and abundant prayers for his episcopal ministry, congratulations to Bishop James F. Checchio on his ordination and installation as the fifth Bishop of Metuchen!

Ad multos annos!

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The Pontifical North American College © Gary Gellman / Gellman Images