Roman Echoes 2020 – Volume 25, Issue 1 by Pontifical North American College

THE PONTIFIC AL NORTH AMERIC AN COLLEGE

roman echoes The Same: Yesterday, Today, Forever!

OCTOBER 2020 VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1 9 Institution of Acolyte 22 Summer Experiences 28 Encountering the Holy Father 34 Diaconate Ordination in Rome

Contents 22 9 Features 6 Remembering Our Yesterdays 8 Institution of Lector 9 Institution of Acolyte 10 Bishop Barron Conference 11 Long-Distance Learning 12 Annunciation Mass 13 Farewell to Faculty 14 Snapshots 16 Virtual Fraternity 17 The Roman Run 18 Formation Continues 20 Ordinations 22 Summer Experiences 2

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Updates 24 A Future Full of Hope 26 New Man Arrival 27 Orientation 28 Encountering the Holy Father 30 Snapshots 32 Welcoming New Faculty 33 Interview with Fr. Malley 34 Diaconate Ordination in Rome

5 Rectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner 36 Ex Latere Christi 38 NAC Choir CD 39 ICTE Interview 40 Casa Interview 41 Faculty Corner 42 Office of Institutional Advancement

34 28 From the Editor When we look at the world around us, we see much

American College. During these

confusion, unrest, and uncertainty. However, the beauty

twenty-five years there have been many

of our Catholic faith provides the antidote: Truth, rest, and

changes, but the work of the College always

assurance. Jesus Christ, the Eternal High Priest, offers us

remains the same: to form priests after the

the Truth, the rest, and the assurance for which each of us

heart of Jesus Christ. While much around

longs. While last year was cut short due to the COVID-19

us is uncertain and changing, we can

pandemic, we look back and see God’s presence in our

always know one thing for certain:

yesterdays and the experiences we had last spring and

“Jesus Christ is the same

summer. Today, we give thanks to God for his providential

yesterday, today, and

care that has brought us back to Rome and to this

forever” (Heb 13:8).

College as we begin a new formation year. Looking to the future, we move forward with hope, trusting Jesus’ promise: “I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Mt 28:20). This year we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of

Aaron Kelly ’22, Diocese of Rochester, Editor-in-Chief

Roman Echoes, a magazine which always seeks to show how God is working in the life of The Pontifical North ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Contributors EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Aaron Kelly '22, Diocese of Rochester

ASSISTANT EDITOR Ismael RodrÍguez Jr. '22, Diocese of Dallas ASSISTANT EDITOR Taylor Colwell '23, Archdiocese of Washington LAYOUT & DESIGN EDITOR Alexander Wyvill '22, Archdiocese of Washington ASSISTANT LAYOUT & DESIGN EDITOR Matthew Prosperie '23, Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

Administration

of the Pontifical North American College RECTOR Very Rev. Peter C. Harman ‘99 VICE RECTOR FOR ADMINISTRATION Rev. David A. Schunk ‘10 VICE RECTOR FOR SEMINARY LIFE Rev. Adam Y. Park ‘05 ACADEMIC DEAN & ROMAN ECHOES FACULTY LIAISON Rev. John P. Cush ’98, C’15 SUPERIOR, CASA SANTA MARIA Rev. James J. Conn, SJ DIRECTOR, INSTITUTE FOR CONTINUING THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION Rev. Edward Linton, OSB EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Mark Randall, CFRE 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) 470-6211 Email: pnacdc@pnac.org Website: www.pnac.org This publication is written, edited, and photographed by the students of The Pontifical North American College.

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COVER: The Rector, Very Rev. Peter Harman '99 (Springfield in Illinois), celebrates Mass with the faculty and a small remnant of seminarians who remained at the College during the COVID–19 pandemic. The community has since reunited and the chapel is full again. THIS PAGE: Under normal circumstances, students at the College have many chances to travel to various countries to be nourished by their beautiful and unique expressions of the faith. This stained glass window in the cathedral of Cologne, Germany, represents that universal nature of the Gospel through the Magi, who came from distant lands to adore Christ.

Rector’s Corner Finding Freedom in God’s Will

began my first Rector’s Conference of the year by humbly and shamelessly stealing from Fr. Jacques Philippe and his book Interior Freedom, to set the tone for a spiritual approach to the challenging times we have been living. I hope a brief section may be uplifting for you.

“Holiness through freedom will never come to us unless we begin by accepting, welcoming and consenting to all the external events that confront us. Now, this is not hard in the case of what we perceive as good, pleasing and positive. But it is hard when any kind of setback or suffering is involved. “This is a delicate subject, because it is not a matter of desiring challenges nor a matter of becoming passive and learning to endure everything without any reaction whatsoever. But whatever projects we have and however well we plan them, many times situations are beyond our control and involve a whole host of events contrary to our expectations, hopes, and desires occur, and we must accept it. “We should not limit ourselves to accepting things grudgingly, but should truly consent to them—not to endure them, but in a sense ‘choose’ them (even if in fact we have no choice, and that’s what most annoys us). Choosing here means making a free act by which we not only resign ourselves but also embrace the situation. That isn’t easy, especially in the case of really painful trials, but it is the right approach, and we should follow as much as possible in faith and hope. If we have enough faith in God to believe him capable of drawing good out of whatever befalls us, he will do so. Jesus says repeatedly in the Gospels, ‘As you have believed, so let it be done to you’ (Mt. 8:16). “This is an absolutely fundamental truth: God can draw good out of everything, both good and bad,

positive and negative. For he is God the ‘Almighty Father’ whom we profess in the Creed. Drawing good out of good is not so hard, [in fact, even we can do that!] But God alone, in his omnipotence, his love and wisdom, can draw good from evil. How? No philosophy or theological argument can explain it completely. Our job is to believe it on the word of Scripture inviting us to this degree of trust, as St. Paul says so beautifully to the Romans: ‘In everything, God works for good with those who love him.’ If we believe this, we will experience it. It is said that St. Therese of Lisieux reread her autobiography just a few days before her death and was able to say, ‘everything is grace,’ when certainly not everything was pleasant.” Certainly we have faced challenges. But we must always realize that if we trust in the love of a providential God, then we should not be upset when we are forced to change, to grow. It is a fundamental truth that the worst possible thing to happen would be for us to have everything in life go exactly as we would want it! We would then be worshiping our own will and not the true God. However you have been challenged, adapted, and grown in these months, please know that we are remembering you, your health, and your family in our prayers these days. Please remember our community as well. Thanks for your support!

Very Reverend Peter C. Harman, STD ’99 Rector ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

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VOICES OF NAC THE

What was your favorite part of the summer? On Independence Day this summer, I made a commitment of utmost dependence: I promised my life to God in service of his Church and was ordained a deacon. This was not just a highlight of my summer but of my life as I was commissioned to spend the rest of my life highlighting the Good News of Jesus Christ. Somehow the whole city knew about it, at least it seemed that way, since they were launching as many fireworks as I was in celebration. Rev. Mr. Kyle Poje ’21, Archdiocese of Seattle The summer of 2020 was certainly eventful. Between ordinations, candidacy, and summer courses, this past summer was very active. In the midst of all this, my favorite memory was the evening before I flew out of my hometown to come to Rome. That evening my diocesan brother and I were able to pray Vespers with many brother seminarians from our diocese. This was a great spiritual encouragement as we prepared to depart. Christian Goduti ’24, Diocese of Charlotte My favorite memory of the summer was getting ordained a priest of Jesus Christ. One particular moment from ordination that has stayed with me was the laying on of hands by my archbishop. I was keenly aware of the pounding of my heart—not out of nervousness or fear—but from a deeper sense of knowing that, in that precise moment, my heart was being conformed to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in a new and unique way. Rev. Patrick Agustin ’20, Archdiocese of Washington One of the best moments of summer was when some of the restrictions for COVID-19 were lifted, and churches were able to reopen. I was going to unlock the church early Sunday morning and was warmly greeted by several people who had arrived over an hour before Mass, they were overjoyed by finally being able to be in the same building as our Lord. Krzysztof Tyszko ’23, Diocese of Paterson

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The Institution of

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The Word Ought to Grow, and I Should Diminish T H O M A S O’ D O N N E L L ’ 2 3, A R C H D I O C E S E O F BA LT I M O R E

s a student in Catholic schools, I was often asked to read at Mass because I happened to have a good speaking voice. But whatever one’s prior experience of reading at Mass, being instituted a lector means he is no longer called to read because he will do it well—he should do it well because he has been called. I now have the responsibility of assisting at the liturgy, not simply volunteering when it is enjoyable or convenient. Those natural inclinations that may have initially made the seminary a possibility for a man must yield to a supernatural foundation. On Sunday, January 12, 2020, my classmates and I were instituted as lectors by Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda ’89, Archbishop of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Lectors are called to have a special relationship with the Word of God and are given the important task of proclaiming the Word to others. As part of the rite, we were each handed the lectionary and charged: “Take this book of holy Scripture and be faithful in handing on the Word of God, so that it may grow strong in the hearts of his people.”

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Thomas O’Donnell ’23 (Baltimore) processes to his pew after receiving the call to become a lector.

Optatam Totius instructs seminarians to make Scripture “the soul of theology.” Not only theology but the entirety of our lives must flow out of the Word which has been “conceived inwardly in our hearts,” as St. Augustine puts it. Our scripture studies and our lectio divina are embodied when we “give voice to the Word”—the theme of Archbishop Hebda’s homily. Being installed a lector was not a reward but a call to deepen my

knowledge of Scripture and to allow the Word to dwell permanently in my heart. “To prepare the way means to pray well; it means thinking humbly of oneself,” Augustine writes. Kneeling on the hard floor of the Immaculate Conception Chapel foreshadowed the humble foundation of the priesthood: “He must increase; I must decrease.” Giving passing voice to the eternal Word is a privilege and a joy. n

The principal celebrant for this year’s institution of lectors was The Most. Rev. Bernard Hebda ‘89 (St. Paul and Minneapolis). During his years spent working in Rome, the College was blessed to have him serve as an adjunct spiritual director. The Most. Rev. Augustine Di Noia, OP was the celebrant of this year’s institution of acolytes. Archbishop Di Noia currently serves as the adjunct secretary for the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

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Lector and Acolyte A Life Worthy of the Priesthood Z AC H A RY S C H A E F BAU E R ’ 2 2 , D I O C E S E O F S I O U X FA L L S

ake your life worthy of your service at the table of the Lord and of his Church.” When I reflect on these words from the Rite of Institution of Acolyte, two things come to mind. First, I cannot believe that I am nearing the end of my seminary formation. It seems like only yesterday I was walking through the doors of St. John Vianney College Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, with the priesthood remaining in the distant future, but I now find myself being instituted an acolyte with the priesthood practically knocking on the door of my heart. My classmates and I were instituted acolytes on Sunday, February 23,

2020, by Archbishop J. Augustine DiNoia, OP, Adjunct Secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. With the installation of acolyte, a seminarian takes on a special responsibility with regard to the Holy Eucharist. Acolytes are instructed “to assist Priests and Deacons in carrying out their ministry, and as special ministers to give Holy Communion to the faithful at the liturgy and to the sick.” The rite also challenges the acolyte to conform himself more closely to Christ’s sacrifice and live more fully in the image of Christ, particularly by fulfilling his command “to love one another.”

My institution as acolyte is yet another instrument by which God disposes my heart to greater receptivity of his divine assistance, that I may purify my life and thus serve worthily in the sacred vocation of the priesthood. This brings me to my second thought: a haunting feeling of unpreparedness. I am led to ask questions such as, “Am I really ready for priesthood?” and “Am I even worthy of such a call?” In a sense, no, I am not ready. I am not worthy. However, this is a beautiful realization: it is not by my own power or perfection that the priesthood is given to me. It is a divine gift for which God and his Church prepare me and make me worthy. Nevertheless, I must make my life worthy by cooperating with God’s grace and the Church’s formation. My institution as acolyte is yet another instrument by which God disposes my heart to greater receptivity of his divine assistance, that I may purify my life and thus serve worthily in the sacred vocation of the priesthood. n

Zachary Schaefbauer ’22 (Sioux Falls) stands with his diocesan brother Rev. Anthony Klein ’20 (Sioux Falls) at the foot of the sanctuary in the Immaculate Conception Chapel. ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Bridges to “Nones”

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Conferences at the College

M AT T H E W P R OS P E R I E ’ 2 3, D I O C E S E O F H O U M A-T H I B O DAU X

everal times a year, seminarians at The Pontifical North American College have the opportunity to hear experts deliver conferences on various topics. Last year, we had presentations on the newly-canonized St. John Henry Newman by Msgr. Richard Liddy, on the “Power of a Priest’s Blessing” by Msgr. Stephen Rossetti, and most recently on “Evangelizing the ‘Nones’”, which was given by Bishop Robert Barron. All three presenters are well-known and considered leading voices in the topic on which they presented, but for me, Bishop Barron’s message was particularly relevant, motivating, and insightful for my future life as a shepherd of God’s people. It was relevant because he alerted me to the stark reality that I will soon face as a priest. For those unfamiliar, the word “Nones” in the title of Bishop Barron’s presentation refers to the large and quickly growing number of people who, when asked on surveys with which religious group they associate, claim “None.” In 1970, 3% of the U.S. population identified as such; now, the number is 26%. Upon hearing this, the challenge is clear: the lost need to be found, and the straying need someone to call out to them before it is too late.

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that loud and clear. Why? Because misconceptions about science and faith are a stumbling block for so many, and by using their own experience and knowledge as leverage, these future priests could help remove that boulder that blocks their path to faith.

The Most Rev. Robert Barron speaks to a group of seminarians about the need to evangelize young Catholics who no longer affiliate with the Church.

Here came the motivation. Bishop Barron wanted us to realize that, sadly, Catholicism is “hemorrhaging its young people,” and that needs to change. We were informed that the vast majority of “Nones” drift away because they think science makes faith in God irrelevant. After hearing that a decent number of seminarians present had backgrounds in biology, medicine, mathematics, and other scientific disciplines before entering the seminary, he challenged them to “get on the front lines” of evangelization. The message was that, since they know well that science and faith do not contradict, they need to proclaim

But Bishop Barron knows that people of other walks of life, too, will play their part in reaching the “Nones.” In short, he wanted to communicate that every Christian, from cinematographers to economists, are to be a little “way” or “bridge” on whom others can travel, from wherever they are, to Christ. And this was Bishop Barron’s greatest insight: the greatest tool we have to reach the “Nones” is each one of us in whatever walk of life we find ourselves. That, of course, is not easy, but from this conference, I learned that my goal as a priest will be to not only nourish the people who come to Mass on Sunday, but to form them into bridges on whom all those they meet, but who I would probably never meet, could travel to Christ. Though a seemingly small lesson, it and the other lessons I learn from these spiritual fathers’ conferences will help me to one day bridge the gap between God and his children. n

In addition to Bishop Barron’s conference this academic year, the College also has several other conferences worth noting, including the annual Carl J. Peter lecture, Advent and Lenten Days of Recollection, as well as formation conferences throughout the month of September and each Thursday evening. The Rector also gives a conference at various points throughout the year.

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Serenity in Long-Distance Learning M AT T H E W S C H I L M O E L L E R ’ 2 3, D I O C E S E O F L I N CO L N

he acclaimed Serenity Prayer beseeches God to “grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” Notwithstanding its challenges, spring 2020 was a successful academic term that enabled me to focus on the two priorities of every seminarian: prayer and study. Coursework at my university never stopped, since the professors immediately made the trasition from in-person learning to online learning. One day I was walking across Rome for class, and the next I was gathering with my classmates in a classroom at

the College for a video conference. Then, after we returned home, the various universities continued to work with us so that we could finish our coursework, despite being an ocean apart. Forced to adapt to a new teaching atmosphere, my professors understood the difference between what they could and could not change. I recognized in a few of them not only the drive to teach but to truly shepherd us students amid the unprecedented circumstances. The parting words of their lectures, encouraging us to maintain composure and evermore adopt a “theology on

one’s knees” exemplified this pastoral spirit. When final exams arrived, they were forced to accommodate students living in various situations and time zones. I am grateful that the universities were able both to give exams at their proper time and to celebrate the joys of learning as a student of truth that remains constant, no matter the circumstances. Through this experience, I learned that the serenity to accept and embrace life’s circumstances with the grace that comes from Jesus Christ leads to a joyful life indeed. When the Pontifical universities had to act in light of what they could not control, their decision to change wisely what they could, in cooperation with God’s grace, made all the difference. n

Through this experience, I learned that the serenity to accept and embrace life’s circumstances with the grace that comes from Jesus Christ leads to a joyful life indeed.

Students log in early in the morning for a Zoom seminar.

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An Unexpected Closing Mass

Prayer to the Virgin Mary for Protection Pope Francis

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Daniel Hammer ’22 (Duluth) incenses in front of the last procession from the Immaculate Conception Chapel of the 2019-2020 school year. To the left, a special votive candle burns beside an image of Mary as a sign of the community’s prayers for an end to COVID-19.

O Mary, you shine continuously on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope. We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick. At the foot of the Cross you participated in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith. You, Salvation of the Roman People, know what we need. We are certain that you will provide, so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee, joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial. Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform ourselves to the Father’s will and to do what Jesus tells us: He who took our sufferings upon Himself, and bore our sorrows to bring us, through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God. Do not despise our pleas – we who are put to the test – and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin. Amen.

am consoled by the joy it will be to welcome you back home again!” These words of comfort and reassurance were spoken by Fr. Harman at the Vigil Mass of the Solemnity of the Annunciation on March 24, 2020. After learning a few days prior that the College would be closing for the first time since the Second World War, many students requested that a Vigil Mass be celebrated the evening before our departure. This Mass allowed us to celebrate the Annunciation, and it also gave us a semblance of a closing Mass, which usually ends each formation year. Moreover, it was fitting because the last time the College closed, the community also celebrated a closing Mass to mark the occasion. This time, Fr. Harman was the celebrant, and in his homily, he reminded the community that, “We stand under the cross.” This was a poignant message as we prepared to return home until we gathered again this fall. In early March, Fr. Harman requested that the community pray together the “Prayer to the Virgin Mary for Protection” written by Pope Francis for an end to the pandemic, a prayer which we still pray each day as a community. In God’s providence, those tumultuous weeks were punctuated with the celebration of one last community Mass at the College in honor of her, our Blessed Mother. Finally, before the bells rang the next morning to send us on our way, we gathered to celebrate our Lenten tradition of Grilled Cheese Friday, though it was Tuesday. This practice, comparable to parish fish fries or Lenten dinners, is usually held each Friday in Lent over the lunch hour. The fifth-year priests took the lead and, in a great witness to priestly service, labored over hot griddles to prepare this simple “closing banquet” that unofficially marked the end of the year. n

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Departing Faculty I S M A E L R O D R Í G U E Z , J R . ‘ 2 2 , D I O C E S E O F DA L L A S

The Pontifical North American College community wishes Fr. Kerry and the Will Family all the best and assures them of our prayers as they begin this new chapter in their lives.

Fr. Kerry Abbott, OFM Conv. ICTE ‘14 stands with members of the personale, the dedicated team of staff that faithfully serve the College community, at one of their annual appreciation luncheons.

REV. KERRY ABBOT, OFM CONV., ICTE ’14 After concluding his assignment at the College as Vice Rector of Administration (Economo), Fr. Kerry has been granted a sabbatical year by his Conventual Franciscan Minister Provincial. During this year, Fr. Kerry has also been invited by the rector to lend his expertise to the conclusion of two principal administrative projects for the College. Fr. Kerry first arrived in Rome as a seminarian in 1987 at the Conventual Franciscan Seminary. He completed his priestly formation at the Pontifical College of St. Bonaventure while earning his licentiate in canon law at the Lateran University. He also obtained degrees in business management and in international civil law. After ordination, he served as a military chaplain for almost twenty years and as vocation director for the Archdiocese of Military Services, USA. In total, Fr. Kerry spent nearly twelve years in Rome and Italy in various assignments prior to his role as the College’s Economo.

During his five-year term as Economo, Fr. Kerry undertook the herculean task of maintaining two campuses which consist of thirteen acres of land and ten large multi-story buildings and structures by implementing the Vision for Future and Echo Christ capital campaigns. These construction, maintenance, and renovation projects are part of an ongoing ten-year physical plan which include the first full-scale comprehensive updating of our kitchens and associated areas since the seminary was constructed in the early twentieth century. Under his leadership, various building projects including the fitness center and basketball court were completed. He also oversaw the renovation of the Administrative Offices, the student kitchen and fifth-floor terrace, corridor lounges, the main student lounge, the replacement of the original refectory floor, the Corso Auditorium, and the repairs of the roof and façade of the College, including the cleaning of the bronze bas-relief and the coat of arms located above the main entrance. He also oversaw the restoration of the living spaces of the Casa Santa Maria. Ultimately, Fr. Kerry’s role in the construction, renovation, and maintenance of beautiful buildings and grounds has not only created a more stable place for us to live, pray, and study but has also furthered the mission of the College to form future priests for God’s people.

MR. NICHOLAS WILL Mr. Nicholas Will, who served as Director of Liturgical Music at the College from 2018-20, is currently serving as Director of Liturgical Music and Lecturer at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland. During his two-year tenure here at the College, Mr. Will oversaw all aspects of liturgical music, served as principal organist, and directed the seminary choir. Before moving to Rome along with his wife Kate and their two daughters, Mr. Will served as Assistant Professor of Music and Coordinator of the Sacred Music Program at Franciscan University of Steubenville. Under his leadership, the College released an album named after the College’s motto, Firmum Est Cor Meum (“My heart is steadfast”). The album includes sacred hymns and motets recorded in spring 2019 by the seminary choir.

Mr. Nicholas Will directs the choir on Ash Wednesday at the Church of Santa Sabina.

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Snapshots

Matthew Colle '22 (Green Bay) swings at a pitch in one of many softball games played among the seminarians during the lockdown period.

Rev. Joe Cwik '19 (Washington) blesses a spread of breads and pastries, traditional fare for the Solemnity of St. Joseph.

Seminarians enjoy "Grilled Cheese Friday" alongside some of the RSM sisters who work with the College.

PNAC priest faculty members join in song, carrying palm branches in their hands for the Palm Sunday liturgy.

After the Holy Thursday liturgy, a train of priests escorts the Blessed Sacrament down one of the College stairwells, where the Eucharist is placed in an "altar of repose" for the night.

Andrew Kwiatkowski '22 (Melbourne) extracts a coal from the Easter fire to place in the thurible, held by Bijoy Joseph '22 (Sydney).

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The Carmelite sisters, who diligently work and pray behind the scenes at the College, smile for a group photo after the Easter Sunday liturgy.

Rev. Brendan Hurley, SJ leads a prayer before the first-ever "Megakota vs. the World" basketball match, pitting the seminarians from North and South Dakota against all other dioceses.

On their last day before boarding flights home, seminarians from the Class of 2022 pose for a photo in front of the iconic "TO LIFE BOATS" sign, a reminder of the stark travel conditions of the first PNAC seminarians to set sail for Rome.

Rev. Joshua Rodrigue ‘02 (Houma-Thibodaux), Rev. Mr. Adi Indra ‘20 (Sandhurst) and Rev. Martin Okwudiba ‘20 (Philadelphia) lie prostrate at the beginning of the Good Friday liturgy.

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The Virtues of Virtual

“In virtue of their common sacred ordination and mission, all priests are bound together in intimate brotherhood, which naturally and freely manifests itself in mutual aid, spiritual as well as material, pastoral as well as personal, in their meetings and in communion of life, of labor and charity” (Lumen Gentium, 28). An important part of seminary life is fostering friendships and a spirit of brotherhood and fraternity that will continue long after one’s time at the College. Some examples of fraternal events include: Class Dinners or Fraternity Weekends, Diocesan/State Nights, and Tuesday Night Hall Prayer, just to name a few.

Alex Fry '22 (Dallas) hosts a "digital trivia night" for parishioners.

t is 7:00 p.m. in Dallas, Texas, as I log on to my computer and open Zoom. At 5:00 p.m. in San Diego, California, Guillermo has just finished dinner and is grabbing his phone. On the East Coast, Alex sits down in his favorite recliner and unlocks his iPad. Across the country, my classmates and I are getting ready for our biweekly “virtual happy hour.” Like many people around the world this summer, “getting together” looked a bit different than what we were used to. In March, when the COVID-19 pandemic spread rapidly throughout Italy, many aspects of our lives as seminarians were brought to an abrupt halt. The first few months were characterized by a sense of uncertainty and unforeseen change. Loss of routine and separation from our community certainly stretched us and afforded us an opportunity to grow in faith in God’s providence. Back home, we settled into the “new normal.” Remaining connected with

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friends and family became a unique challenge. Stay-at-home orders, parish and school closures, and decreased physical contact strained our relationships and communities. Technology became one of the primary means to maintain a sense of fraternity and mutual support during these months at home. Through Zoom classes in our universities, virtual happy hours, and more frequent phone calls, we were able to maintain a semblance of normal life. Despite technology’s limitations, it allowed us to stay connected during a difficult time in our world. Pastors and seminarians alike found an important link to the flock and each other. Even while fear spread throughout the country, virtues of creativity, perseverance, and companionship shone through the darkness. As we return to our beloved College on the Janiculum Hill, perhaps we reunite with a new sense of gratitude for what we had before the pandemic: community, friendships, and our home in the Eternal City. n

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A Run Across Italy in America J OS H UA N E H N E VA J ’ 2 2 , A R C H D I O C E S E O F S E AT T L E

ne crisp early morning in the spring of my first year at the Pontifical North American College, I crowded into a van with four other seminarians and one student priest and headed off to Italy’s western coast. Another equally crowded van drove off towards the opposite side of the country. Once we reached our respective destinations, the goal was simple: to meet back up in the middle of the country. The only rule was that one person from each group had to be running the entire time, roughly 150 miles total. This event is known as the “Roman Run.”

Danny Dilone '22 (New York) poses for a photo in front of Yankee Stadium while putting in miles on the track.

Rev. Mr. Dustin Busse '21 (Portland in Oregon) pauses during his run to snap a photo in the Old Town of his home city.

What followed was a long day of running through the beautiful countryside and small villas of Italy. This was not just a physical challenge but also an opportunity to raise money for charity. We were running not just for ourselves but for others. (In fact, the priest in our group stopped to check on a serious car accident and was prepared to give the Anointing of the Sick if the sacrament was needed—thankfully, it was not.) Almost a year later, I again set out to run as much as I could in a single day. This time, though, I ran alone through the streets of my hometown in Washington state. Similarly, twenty-two of my brother seminarians were also running alone in their own towns across the United States. Although we had to complete the Roman Run “virtually” and “remotely” rather than physically, the goal was still to run the 150 miles it takes to cross Italy.

This was not just a physical challenge but also an opportunity to raise money for charity. We were running not just for ourselves but for others. Even though the virtual Roman Run did not include the beautiful views of the Italian countryside or anything as dramatic as a car accident, the generosity of others to raise money for charity and the willingness of my brother seminarians to participate remained the same. I look forward to running across the "real Italy" this year. n

Johsua Nehnevaj '22 (Seattle) snaps a selfie during his Roman Run segment on the Washington Trail.

ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

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Formation Contin

Roberto Brunel ’23 (Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter) and his formation advisor, Rev. Michael Romano ’07 (Camden), along with the other seminarians and formators, did their best to continue formation meetings after returning home in March.

Remote Formation R O B E RTO B R U N E L ’ 2 3, P E R S O N A L O R D I N A R I AT E O F T H E C H A I R O F ST. P E T E R

fter returning home this past spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were away from the College. This did not mean, however, that formation ceased. On the contrary, I was happy that we were able to continue our formation in these unforeseen circumstances. My formation advisor, Fr. Romano, reached out via videoconference to check up and make sure I was doing well back in the United States. I was excited to hear that our formation conferences would continue as well. The two most notable were Fr. Walter Oxley’s enlightening conference on chastity and Sr. Mary Patrice

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Ahearn’s presentation on handling stress and anxiety during the pandemic. It was also great to see some of my brothers—even if it was only their heads floating on a computer screen! Classes at the Gregorian University continued as well via videoconference, lecture notes, and recordings, depending on the professor. Even oral examinations took place over videoconference, which was a first for me. Overall, I was happy with how the College engaged with us while we were gone, and I am excited to return to in-person formation. n

Sr. Mary Patrice Ahearn, RSM offers a formation conference on dealing with trauma in pastoral counseling settings. The session was simultaneously given in-person, for those who had not yet left the College, and long-distance through a Zoom livestream, for those who were in the USA.

nues

Roberto Brunel (left) and Rev. Michael Romano (right) are seen conducting a meeting via video call.

Log-In to Check-In R E V. M I C H A E L M. R O M A N O ’ 0 7, D I O C E S E O F C A M D E N

esiding in a seminary without seminarians for a prolonged period of time is an atypical experience. However, when the College decided that it was in the community’s best interest for the seminarians to return home at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy, about twenty or so priests and seminarians remained in Rome and lived that strange reality. Spending weeks confined to the College campus without the prayerful, optimistic, and energetic presence of the very reason for the seminary’s existence filling its halls made their absence all the more palpable. Aware that the men of the College were spending time often in less than

ideal circumstances (i.e. isolated quarantine, living at home without the sacraments, and staying at parishes closed to parishioners), the faculty were concerned for the seminarians, their discernment, and their formation during those extraordinary months. As communication is key in any relationship, the priest formators quickly learned their way around WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Zoom to stay in frequent contact with the seminarians. These weekly to biweekly check-ins, while not ideal, enabled the formators to accompany their men, from a virtual distance, during the highs and lows of a worldwide pandemic that had removed every sense of control from people’s lives. Hopefully, they also reminded the

seminarians of the College’s solicitude for them throughout a time when their physical presence was not possible. Virtual formation was probably as enjoyable for the priest faculty as virtual learning was for the seminarians! However, each conversation with one of the men of the College lifted the spirits of this formator who waited with great anticipation for the return of those being formed for the priesthood of Jesus Christ. Fortunately, residing in a seminary without seminarians for a prolonged period of time is an atypical experience. May it not happen again! n

ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 24: ISSUE 2

Rev. Mr. Nicholas Morrsion '21 (Washington) and Rev. James Morrsion '20 (Washington) lie prostrate next to each other with other members of the ordination class, during the Litany of the Saints of the Rite of Ordination. Photo courtesy of Paul Fetters.

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A Newfound Brotherhood R E V. M R . N I C H O L A S M O R R I S O N â&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2 1 , A R C H D I O C E S E O F WA S H I N GTO N

drenaline and zeal were palpable in the light of the dawning battle. Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famed depiction presents King Henry V inspiring his weary men to honor and bravery as they prepare to defend their country during the Battle of Agincourt.

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This story shall the good man teach his son; And Crispin Crispian shall ne'er go by, From this day to the ending of the world, But we in it shall be remembered; We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; For he today that sheds his blood with me Shall be my brother.

Battles form bonds unlike any other. A rag-tag, grab-bag crew of men is formed into something formidable and strong in an arena where individuals fail. Whether you find yourself in the plains of Agincourt, France, or in the realm of Christian mission, brotherhood is an indispensable element of success. I have had the unique opportunity to study for the priesthood alongside two of my brothers—both an older and younger brother. Many people ask what it is like to have brothers in the seminary. I could list any number of graces that have come from sharing this experience with the two of them. However, despite our closeness, recently something fundamental about our brotherhood changed.

This summer, my older brother and I shared an ordination. First, I was ordained a deacon, and for just a few minutes my older brother and I were deacons together, before he was called forward to be ordained a priest. So much of our lives have been spent together. During the best of times and the worst of times, we have been there together. Now the Lord is calling us to surrender everything—and to do it together. During the ordination liturgy, all those being ordained lay prostrate before the altar, and we had the privilege of being next to a brother. We made the ultimate sacrifice together, a sacrifice we hope to continue living for the rest of our lives. We are reminded of such sacrifice every time we utter or hear those sacred words: “This is

my body given up for you… This is my blood poured out.” We have both given our own bodies, both given our own blood. We have poured it all out before the Lord’s altar. There are many things that unite my brother and me. Over and above having similar genes or appearances, our new source of unity is having shed our blood and surrendered our lives together in this endeavor to win souls and strive for salvation. There is a newfound fraternity based on our configuration to Christ. Can there be any deeper brotherhood than this? Who knows what battles lie ahead, but through it all, it is a source of comfort and encouragement to know that by my side stands a brother calling out the soldier in me, calling out the saint in me, and calling me to be that man I am meant to be. n

Rev. James Morrison ’20 (Washington) vests his brother, Rev. Mr. Nicholas Morrison ’21 (Washington) with the diaconal stole. The two were ordained together in their home diocese over the summer. Photo courtesy of Paul Fetters.

ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

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Summer Experiences

NOAH DA SILVA ’24, DIOCESE OF PROVIDENCE

A Virtual Summer in Verbania One of the many ways in which the New Men departed from the typical summer transition to the College this year was the lack of an Italian language immersion program. This meant that I began to learn about Italian language and culture virtually from the rectory of my summer assignment parish—St. Philip Church in Greenville, Rhode Island. While this was much different than traveling to The Italian School in Verbania, a small city in the north of Italy where my professors were located, the opportunity brought many blessings and showed that God was still at work in a difficult time. Meeting with my two professors every day for four weeks opened my eyes to the great blessing it is to begin priestly formation in Rome. While the virtual format may have compounded the struggle of learning a new language, it was an opportunity to turn over this aspect of my priestly formation to God’s providential care. Most importantly, learning with my professors online meant that they

JUSTIN FAEHRMANN ’23, ARCHDIOCESE OF SYDNEY

God’s Providence in the Midst of COVID-19 Within a few days of my arrival at Santo Cristo de la Misercordia in Boadilla, Spain, my parish for the summer, I was informed by the pastor that I was going to need hiking shoes, clothes, and camping gear. Before I knew it, I took a precautionary COVID test and was on my way to the small northern town of Panticosa, Spain. Here I accompanied approximately sixty teenagers on a four-day walking pilgrimage over the Pyrenees to the Lourdes sanctuary. Next, we embarked on a twelve-day pilgrimage with thirty young adults through the Picos de Europa mountains and concluded at another Marian shrine located in Covadonga, Spain. What ensued was one of the most encouraging and affirming experiences for which a seminarian could ask. I spent most of the month of July hiking, praying, and accompanying the youth of the parish. Each day began with praying the Liturgy of the 22

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Noah Da Silva '24 (Providence) makes travel plans to visit Verbania post-COVID. Verbania is the home of one of the language schools frequented by NAC seminarians over the years.

welcomed me virtually into their homes and continued to teach with great passion the riches of Italian culture. Ultimately, I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent learning from my professors this summer, and I arrived in Rome excited to experience more of the Catholic tradition of this country—a great seedbed for forming men for the priesthood.

Hours together before embarking on a rigorous day’s hike with pauses for Mass, meals, and rest. I was particularly inspired by the example of the priest, who was always available for the pilgrims’ needs—hearing confessions for multiple hours each day and providing spiritual direction. His selfless priestly example and recognition that his ministry flowed from his own intimate relationship with the Lord left a profound impression on me. As I journey toward ordination, I hope to imitate his example and, God willing, live it out in my life as a priest.

Justin Faehrmann ‘23 (Sydney) (second from left) poses with his summer pastor and fellow seminarians during a hike in northeastern Spain.

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The Program of Priestly Formation (PPF) is the USCCB document which guides the work of seminaries in preparing men for the priesthood. In the PPF, there are four pillars of formation which are given particular attention throughout a man’s formation: Human, Intellectual, Spiritual, and Pastoral. Summer assignments, of various forms, play an important part in the pastoral formation of a man studying for priesthood. They are an invaluable opportunity for seminarians to get “hands on” experience.

ZANE LANGENBRUNNER ’23, DIOCESE OF FORT WAYNE-SOUTH BEND

Christ in Unexpected Places My summer assignment seemed at first to be rather bleak. I had to spend the first few weeks at the parish finishing online classes and taking exams. Most parish activities were suspended because of the coronavirus, and though public Masses were beginning to resume, it was unclear how many parishioners would feel comfortable returning. I wondered, “How am I going to get to know this parish?” Some wise words from my spiritual director, however, set me straight: “Whatever you find yourself doing this summer, and it may not be much, ask yourself, ‘Is this leading me closer to Christ?’” This

clarifying thought helped me reevaluate the summer. I put aside my own expectations for what could have been and began to seek Christ’s presence in what was—and I found him. I found him in the parishioners I would often find praying in the church. I found him in dinner conversations with my pastor, a priest with forty-eight years of experience. I found Him in our “virtual” ministry: a weekly rosary over Zoom, livestreamed funeral masses, and phone calls to homebound parishioners. My lesson was that Christ makes himself present in unexpected ways, touching lives and moving hearts often independently of any work we do ourselves. By my last weekend in the parish, I was pleasantly surprised by how many faces I recognized (from the nose up at least!). God had taken my worry—that I would not get to know anyone in the parish—and turned it into an answered prayer.

REV. MR. JAMES LINKENHELD '21, DIOCESE OF ROCKFORD

An Abnormal Summer While it was certainly strange to come to a parish for a summer assignment and not be able to meet and be among the parishioners, the pandemic was unable to keep God away from my experience this summer; in fact, it was an opportunity for God to dwell among us in surprising new ways. My summer pastor and I tried everything we could to reach the people. A spirit of missionary creativity permeated our conversations and outreach, and it was exciting to be supported by the people of the parish. Largely through social media, the pastor and I livestreamed Mass and recorded a video series commenting on The Chosen, a recent television drama based on the life of Jesus. I also made a weekly video titled “Seminarian Strolls” that aimed to connect the faith to people’s lived experience. While the church was closed, my pastor and I brought statues of Our Lady and St. John Paul II outside while people drove by to receive a blessing. At the end of the assignment, I gave a

Rev. Mr. James Linkenheld '21 (Rockford) waves next to a statue of St. John Paul II.

series of livestreamed talks on the Mass, which was particularly special to me as the parish reopened and people began to return to this “source and summit” of our faith. It was not a “normal” summer, yet God gave me these different opportunities that I might enter more deeply into his desire to be with his people. Ultimately, these opportunities allowed me to enter more deeply into his heart—which is what priestly formation is all about. ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

FUTURE FULL OF HOPE Persevering toward better days ahead

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VOICES OF NAC THE

What are you looking forward to most about being back in Rome? I am most looking forward to the excitement of classes and of returning to be with great friends, all while sharing the joy of being a newly ordained priest in beautiful Rome. Rev. Peter Gallagher ’20, Diocese of Camden One of the things I’m looking forward to most is being able to continue visiting the different churches of Rome. Spending time praying in various churches is one of the most edifying parts about studying here. These churches also have plenty of beautiful artwork to see and admire, which is an enriching way to make use of free time. Viktor Gjergji ’23, Archdiocese of New York I look forward to seeing all the guys again—those I have come to know over my first two years as well as those New Men I have not had a chance to get to know yet. Being on a pastoral year this past year showed me just how much the relationships I have formed here mean to me. Jakob Hurlimann ’22, Diocese of Austin Studying in Rome offers a bird's-eye view of the Universal Church. The many Catholic traditions, churches, and holy places are instances of God building up his Church. From Papal Masses in St. Peter’s Basilica, to the quiet convents of Ars, France, to boisterous Holy Week processions in Spain, it is amazing to see how God communicates his love to the faithful across different countries, languages, cultures, and works of art. Rev. Mr. Eric Mashak ’21, Diocese of La Crosse

ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Casting Out into the Deep J OS E P H WA P P E S ’ 2 4 , A R C H D I O C E S E O F ST. PAU L A N D M I N N E A P O L I S

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In normal circumstances, new seminarians would have the opportunity to come to Rome in July for “Early Orientation” before one month of Italian studies. Seminarians typically study Italian at language schools in Assisi, Siena, or Verbania. Following language studies, the “New Men” return to Rome to meet the rest of their classmates and begin “Regular Orientation.” The purpose of the orientation programs are to acquaint the men with life at the College and life in Rome.

The initial weeks brought a joyful welcome in which brother seminarians and faculty prayed with us, shared meals, and introduced us to our new life in Rome. 26

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his summer was a time of uncertainty for us New Men preparing to begin our time at The Pontifical North American College. We waited to find out what the school year would bring— whether we would be able to obtain visas, have classes, or even if the NAC would be able to open. As I waited, though, I found peace beneath the anxiety: if God was calling my seminarian brothers and I to Rome, he would bring it about. The departure date brought excitement. Like St. Peter, I had been invited to “cast out into the deep” to follow Jesus’ call. I flew out on Wednesday, August 19th and arrived in Rome the morning of Thursday, August 20th. When I arrived, I sensed that I was home. I had arrived not only to the heart of the Church but also to a gracious welcome from faculty and returning seminarians and the chance to meet my classmates. While we had never met, we

already shared a deep bond through our faith in Jesus Christ and our commitment to lay down our lives to bring his love to the world. The initial weeks brought a joyful welcome in which brother seminarians and faculty prayed with us, shared meals, and introduced us to our new life in Rome. During this time of orientation, I often think of the thousands of young men who have gone before me on this Roman journey, casting out into the deep. Whether their journey was on a boat and took months, or on a plane and took hours, its purpose remains essentially the same: to respond to God’s radical love that leads men like myself to lay down our lives for his sake. I look forward with great excitement and hope to this opportunity to grow in love for God, the Church, and the brother seminarians who journey with me. n

Following the footsteps of thousands of seminarians who have gone before them for more than 160 years, the New Men solemnly process into the Immaculate Conception Chapel to mark the beginning of their time of formation at the College.

Orientation: Quarantine and Communion B E N P R I B B E N OW ‘ 2 3, D I O C E S E O F G R E E N BAY

ow good and how pleasant it is when brothers live in unity” (Ps. 133:1). Indeed, the College’s New Men lived in unity at orientation this year, despite their fourteen-day quarantine in the house. While COVID-19 restrictions impacted the schedule of orientation, its purpose remained the same: to help the New Men feel welcome. Arrival was more laid-back than in previous years when New Men were swept into the city: this year they had more time to settle into their rooms and get to know one another. The first day culminated in the time-honored “Clap-in,” where the New Men processed into the Immaculate Conception Chapel for the first time to applause from returning seminarians and faculty. This ceremony, which included Evening Prayer and Mass, showed the New Men they belonged in this community. Italian classes also began as usual, though this year the instructors participated via videoconference. Afternoons featured conferences on the various aspects of formation. The New Men could also participate

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Faculty and the orientation team welcome the New Men to the College at the steps leading into the Immaculate Conception Chapel.

in sports on the Campo Sportivo. Additionally, the orientation team, which was made up of members of the second theology class, treated them to several rooftop dinners on our fifth-floor terrace. Though they could not enter the city, they grew in friendship while enjoying the meals and the view. After much anticipation, quarantine ended with the privilege

of Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, built on the tomb of St. Peter, the one who brings us to this city of Rome. Rather than missing out on the typical orientation, I believe the New Men enjoyed a profound experience and that the unity they forged will color their time here. May the work begun in them be brought to completion. n

Seminarians are not only “clapped-in” upon their arrival at The Pontifical North American College, but it is also tradition to be “clapped-out” when one’s time at the College comes to a close. At the end of fourth year, before leaving for the airport, each seminarian is “clapped-out” by the remaining community members. The chapel bells also ring to mark these momentous occasions.

ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Members of the faculty and class of 2024 meet Pope Francis in a private audience on Sunday, September 6, 2020. ÂŠ Servizio Fotografico Vaticano

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Meeting Our Neighbor: An Introduction from the Holy Father

M AT T H E W LU DW I G ’ 2 4 , A R C H D I O C E S E O F WA S H I N GTO N

ew Men normally arrive at the College to a hectic orientation schedule filled with excursions into Rome. My class had a different experience due to the mandated two-week quarantine that began upon our arrival. As our quarantine drew to a close, however, Fr. Harman announced that Pope Francis would welcome the New Men at a private audience. Since there is no guarantee that a seminarian studying in Rome will meet the Pope during his time here, let alone be received by him in a private audience, we knew God was giving us a great gift. Our introduction to Rome was not going to be a tour of the Eternal City but a meeting with the Vicar of Christ himself. Once quarantine ended, we traveled to Assisi for a fraternity weekend. It was fitting to pray for Pope Francis at the

Since there is no guarantee that a seminarian studying in Rome will meet the Pope during his time here, let alone be received by him in a private audience, we knew God was giving us a great gift.

Members of the class of 2024 gather for Mass at the tomb of St. Francis of Assisi in the basilica built in his honor.

tomb of St. Francis, the saint whose name he took. When the day of the audience arrived, we made our way to the Apostolic Palace and were ushered into the room where Pope Francis would soon greet us. He walked slowly to a chair at the front of the room and addressed us in Italian. “Study and pray. And play sports! A priest who does not move begins to have some trouble with his mind.” It was simple advice, but worth considering. Pope Francis was not only our introduction to Rome but to priestly formation at the College. Study—the people of God need priests who can teach the faith, and rightly so. We will be tasked with presenting the core of our faith not as something that merely sounds nice but something

on which people can confidently stake their lives. Pray—a seminarian’s path ends with acting in persona Christi. If this is to happen, we must be men who pray and really believe. Play sports—the priest’s most important work is done on the altar, but he is not confined there. He must be a well-rounded man, a bridge that can extend from Christ across any river to reach the human heart. Meeting St. Peter’s successor reminded us of the priestly mission to which we are called. As Pope Francis has written, what people expect from priests is “that we should bring Jesus Christ to them and lead them to him, to the fresh, living water for which they thirst more than for anything else, which he alone can give and nothing else can replace.” n ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Snapshots

On the far right, James Fangmeyer ’24 (Washington) takes his first steps in the most important church in the world. The New Men’s first time out of the College’s campus, after their quarantine, was to pray in a uniquely peaceful St. Peter’s Basilica.

Rev. Joshua Rodrigue ’02 (Houma-Thibodaux) leads the Rosary dedicating the New Men to the Blessed Mother, under the title of Our Lady of Humility.

Isaac Oviedo '22 (Tyler) lights candles prior to the start of the procession on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord.

Mauricio Portillo ’22 (Arlington) prays as he prepares to be instituted as a lector.

Samuel Hill ’24 (Richmond) speaks with adjunct spiritual director Rev. Joseph Kelly (New York) at the Welcome Banquet for the New Men. The evening is a special memory in their time at the NAC as they share a meal in the cortile in front of the Immaculate Conception Chapel.

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Rev. Mr. Dustin Busse ’21 (Portland in Oregon) embraces his mother after his ordination Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Edwin Cardinal O’Brien C'76, Rector '90-'94, listens to David Lee ’24 (Nashville) as they make their way to the Welcome Banquet.

Rev. Vincent Ferrer Bagan, O.P. (far right), director of the College choir, listens as, immediately to his left, Ryan Glaser ’23 (St. Paul and Minneapolis) cantors during the diaconate ordination. Constricted in size because of COVID-19 restrictions, the choir nevertheless provided beautiful prayer during the liturgy.

From left to right, Troy Niemerg ’24 (Springfield in Illinois), Rev. Mr. Joseph Mominee ’21 (Toledo) and Rev. John Cush '98 C’15 (Brooklyn) at the reception after the Diaconate Profession of Faith and Oath Signing.

In view of the chair of St. Peter, the eight men to be ordained deacons lie prostrate on the marble as the congregation prays fervently the Litany of the Saints on their behalf. ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Welcoming New Faculty: New Faculty for 2020-21 TAY LO R CO LW E L L ’ 2 3, A R C H D I O C E S E O F WA S H I N GTO N

Rev. Kenneth Malley ‘97 (St. Petersburg)

REV. KENNETH MALLEY ’97 Fr. Kenneth Malley, a priest of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Florida, comes to the College as a Spiritual Director. An alumnus of the College, Fr. Malley was ordained a priest in 1997. After completing his Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University, he attended the one-year Spirituality program at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas. He was a pastor for the past fifteen years at two parishes, prior to which he served as associate pastor at three parishes and Dean/Vice Rector at St. John Vianney College Seminary in Miami, Florida. Prior to seminary, Fr. Malley served in the United States Navy and worked in international business.

REV. SHANE KIRBY ’04 Fr. Shane Kirby, a priest of the Diocese of Scranton, Pennsylvania, comes to the College as Director of the Newly Ordained Program at the Casa Santa Maria. An alumnus of the College, Fr. Kirby was ordained a priest in 2004. After ordination, he returned to Rome to complete a licentiate in Sacred Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University in 2005. Additionally, he completed a licentiate in Canon Law from The Catholic University of America in 2014. In the Diocese of Scranton, Fr. Kirby fulfilled various pastoral and administrative roles including parochial vicar, secretary to the Bishop, pastor, Episcopal Vicar for Canonical Affairs, and Chancellor. A native of Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, he converted to Catholicism from the Pentecostal tradition while in high school. He was appointed as an official of the Congregation for the Clergy in November of 2017.

Rev. Shane Kirby ’04 (Scranton)

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REV. VINCENT FERRER BAGAN, O.P. Fr. Vincent Ferrer Bagan, O.P. comes to the College as Director of Liturgical Music and Formation Advisor. Fr. Vincent Ferrer entered the Province of St. Joseph of the Order of Preachers in 2009, made his first profession of vows in 2010, and was ordained a priest in 2015. After

Rev. Vincent Ferrer Bagan, O.P. (Province of St. Joseph)

completing theology studies at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C., where he earned a licentiate, he went on to gain a Master of Music degree from The Catholic University of America. Fr. Vincent Ferrer previously taught music and theology at Providence College and has directed numerous choirs and scholas. Prior to entering the Order of Preachers, he served as a parish music director and high school music teacher. He also studied at St. Olaf College and Ave Maria University. Fr. Vincent Ferrer is an accomplished composer and arranger of sacred music. n

A New Spiritual Director at the College TAY LO R CO LW E L L ’ 2 3, A R C H D I O C E S E O F WA S H I N GTO N Can you give us a little background about yourself to help us get to know you a little better?

What are some of the things you are looking forward to most about being back in Rome?

I was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. After high school, I enlisted in the Navy and was active duty for four years as a Russian language interpreter and cryptologist. I left to finish my college degree at the University of South Florida.

I look forward to seeing the city—its beauty, saints, and history—with new eyes after twenty-three years working in parishes. Serving on faculty is a way to give back to the College in gratitude for what I have received.

It was during my junior year abroad in Glasgow, Scotland, that it became evident the priesthood was God’s plan. After college, I worked in international business, both with an art delegation and an import-export business. I had ideals, plans, and scripts for my life, and many times the Lord let me go until I discovered the better plan was to follow his will. In time, I was able to recognize the passion in my heart to serve as a priest.

When were you ordained and what have your assignments been like up to this point? I was ordained in 1997 after spending four years at the College. Before that I attended St. John Vianney College

Rev. Kenneth Malley '97 (St. Petersburg) at the College.

Seminary in Miami, Florida, and St. Vincent de Paul Seminary in Boynton Beach. After being ordained, I served as an associate pastor at three parishes and as pastor for the past fifteen years—six at St. Catherine of Siena in Clearwater and nine at St. Timothy in Lutz. Being at a parish is fun and exciting but also consuming: you learn how critical it is to protect the interior life in order to drink from the fresh well of God’s grace.

What was your initial reaction when you were assigned to come to the NAC as a faculty member? What will your responsibilities be while you are here? When I met with my bishop, he asked me to pray about it. I was surprised at first but also honored.

Rev. Kenneth Malley '97 (St. Petersburg) receives a blessing from St. John Paul II.

I will be meeting with directees one-on-one, participating in faculty events, and being present at liturgies and house events. I will be looking for all the ways I can be a source of support in the house.

Rev. Kenneth Malley '97 (St. Petersburg) stands with St. Mother Theresa of Calcutta.

Do you have a scripture verse, saint, quote, etc. that you try to model your life and priesthood after? What or who is it and why? St. Thérèse of Lisieux is one. She’s a model for my work as a spiritual director, working behind the scenes in the internal forum.

What are some of your hobbies or interests that you like to pursue in your free time? I like swimming, biking, being outdoors, and walking out in the city. I also enjoy music, theater, and art. Our hearts long for beauty that nourishes the heart and soul, and there is plenty in Rome. n ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

His Eminence James Cardinal Harvey ‘75 with the eight men ordained deacons, in front of the magnificent Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s Basilica.

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The Order of the Diaconate is intimately connected to the Word of God. Deacons, by their ordination, are given the responsibility of proclaiming the Gospel and preaching. During the Ordination Rite, the Bishop hands the newly ordained deacon the Book of the Gospels, saying: “Receive the Gospel of Christ, whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you teach.” As part of their diaconal ministry, fourth-year deacons get the opportunity to preach for the seminary community during Mass and to preside at other liturgies, including the communal celebration of the Liturgy of the Hours and Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

The Pontifical North American College

Ordination to the Diaconate: The Call, The Choice, and The Commission

REV. MR. PATRICK MCCAIN ‘21, PERSONAL ORDINARIATE OF THE CHAIR OF SAINT PETER

n Thursday, October 1, 2020, His Eminence James Cardinal Harvey ordained eight seminarians to the diaconate: Rev. Mr. Dustin Busse (Diocese of Portland in Oregon), Rev. Mr. Patrick Costello (Diocese of Green Bay), Rev. Mr. Madison Hayes (Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau), Rev. Mr. James Linkenheld (Diocese of Rockford), Rev. Mr. Eric Mashak (Diocese of LaCrosse), Rev. Mr. Patrick McCain (Ordinariate of the Chair of Saint Peter), Rev. Mr. John Pankratz (Diocese of Great Falls-Billings), and Rev. Mr. Timothy Reither (Diocese of LaCrosse). Ordinarily, the majority of the fourth-year class is ordained together in St. Peter’s Basilica alongside hundreds of guests. This year, however, most seminarians were ordained in their respective dioceses, and their family members, friends, and visiting clergy were not able to attend due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Fortunately, the ordination Mass was still celebrated at the Altar of the Chair in Saint Peter’s Basilica with about 200 people (mostly seminarians) in attendance. The liturgy was recorded by EWTN and has been viewed by many back home. The ordination Mass included the election of the candidates, the consent

of the faithful, the promises of those chosen for ordination, the laying of hands, the prayer of ordination by the prelate, the investiture with stole and dalmatic (the liturgical vestments proper to deacons), the Litany of the Saints (during which the ordinandi lay prostrate on the floor in front of the altar), the handing on of the book of Gospels, and the exchange of peace. In his homily, Cardinal Harvey celebrated “the call, the choice, and the commission” of the ordinandi. He reminded those present that it is God who calls men to serve at the altar and that He calls them through the Church. “No one,” he said, “is worthy of Holy Orders. God accepts his ministers as worthy only because He makes his ministers worthy.... his grace and strength supply what a human being called to this ministry cannot offer. The one called by God only need respond...” As recently ordained deacons, we are eager to exercise our new ministry in service to others, especially the poor, the sick, and the lonely. As ministers of the word, of the altar, and of charity, we may proclaim the Gospel, preach, administer Baptism and Holy Communion, witness marriages, and preside at vigil and funeral liturgies. May we always be faithful ministers of God’s Word and sacraments. n

Ordained in the Papal Basilica of St. Peter Rev. Mr. Dustin Busse Rev. Mr. Patrick Costello Rev. Mr. Madison Hayes Rev. Mr. James Linkenheld Rev. Mr. Eric Mashak Rev. Mr. Patrick McCain Rev. Mr. John Pankratz Rev. Mr. Timothy Reither

Ordained in their Respective Diocese Rev. Mr. Paul Abbruscato Rev. Mr. Brendan Blawie Rev. Mr. Alessandro Calderoni Ortiz Rev. Mr. Nicholas Case Rev. Mr. Matthew Donahue Rev. Mr. Matthew Duclos Rev. Mr. Timothy Eck, II Rev. Mr. Michael Fitzpatrick Rev. Mr. Reed Flood Rev. Mr. Edward Godefroid Rev. Mr. Randy Hoang Rev. Mr. Lucas LaRoche Rev. Mr. Michael Ledesma Rev. Mr. Seth Lemaire Rev. Mr. Joseph Mominee Rev. Mr. Nicholas Morrison Rev. Mr. Alexander Pince Rev. Mr. Kyle Poje Rev. Mr. Luke Powers Rev. Mr. Juan Sanchez Rev. Mr. Peter Srsich Rev. Mr. Joseph Townsend Rev. Mr. Christopher Trummer Rev. Mr. Nicholas Vetter Rev. Mr. Michael Wanta Rev. Mr. Joseph White Rev. Mr. Stephen Yusko Rev. Mr. Gregory Zannetti

ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

The Pontifical North American College

Ex Latere Christi: In Pursuit of the Truth

A Look at the College’s New Academic Journal AARON KELLY ’22, DIOCESE OF ROCHESTER

he United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, in the fifth edition of the Program of Priestly Formation, states, “The first task of intellectual formation is to acquire a personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the fullness and completion of God’s revelation and the one Teacher. This saving knowledge is acquired not only once, but it is continuously appropriated and deepened, so that it becomes more and more a part of us... At the same time, this knowledge is not simply for personal possession but is destined to be shared in the community of faith.” The priest is one who loves the Truth and seeks to deepen his understanding of the Truth through continuous study, and most importantly, desires to share the Truth with others. To carry out this task, The Pontifical North American College has released the inaugural edition of Ex Latere Christi and is preparing to release a second issue in the coming months. Ex Latere Christi is a biannual journal featuring articles written by faculty, alumni, students, and friends of The Pontifical North American College, in the ecclesiastical disciplines of philosophy, theology, and canon law. Contributors to Ex Latere Christi are those who have pursued degrees in

the sacred sciences. The editorial team of the journal consists of several faculty and students from the College. The executive editor is Fr. John P. Cush, STD, Academic Dean; the editor-in-chief is Fr. Randy DeJesus Soto, STD, Spiritual Director and Carl J. Peter Chair of Homiletics; the student editorial team consists of Alexander Wyvill, Ph.L., Aaron Kelly, Ph.L., and Thomas O’Donnell, BA. The student editorial team is aided by various seminarians who assist with the editing and formatting of individual articles. The idea for Ex Latere Christi originated with Fr. John Cush and Fr. Randy Soto, who wished to create a journal showcasing the academic life of The Pontifical North American College. Relying on the exegesis of the Fathers of the Church, Fr. Soto noted that the water and blood which flow from the side of Christ can be interpreted as theology and philosophy, thus giving the journal its name: Ex Latere Christi (From the Side of Christ). Fr. Soto writes, “The theandric reality of the sacramental meanings of Water and Blood allows us to see in the Water the Divine Effluvium of God’s Revelation which is at the heart of our Catholic Theology, but also to see in the Blood the Human Effluvium of Jesus Christ’s Love for humanity,

which is at the core of our Catholic understanding of Philosophy.” In discussing the goal of the journal, Fr. John Cush noted, “This journal hopes to offer some contribution to the life of the College, the life of the Church in the United States, and the intellectual life of the Church.” Fr. Cush and Fr. Soto remarked that many seminaries in the United States had, or continue to have, academic journals. Historically, seminaries have been centers of learning and academic life; their hope is that Ex Latere Christi may contribute to this tradition. Further, Ex Latere Christi seeks to be an aid to priests in continuing their theological studies after ordination. The first edition of Ex Latere Christi is now available to be read on the website of The Pontifical North American College. Topics considered in the inaugural edition of the journal include the nature of woman and her virtues; the person, family, and society; Heidegger’s conception of truth; Jesus as preacher; creation and science; holiness; and the eucharistic theology of Catherine Pickstock. For more information regarding Ex Latere Christi, where to read it, or the submission process, please contact the editorial staff at exlaterechristi@pnac.org. n

LEFT The Ex Latere Christi team with the first edition in hand. Thomas O’Donnell ’23 (Baltimore), Aaron Kelly ’22 (Rochester), Alexander Wyvill ’22 (Washington), Rev. Randy Soto C'96, C'02 (San Jose, Costa Rica), and Rev. John Cush ’98 C’15 (Brooklyn). ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Firmum Est Cor Meum: Sacred Music from The Pontifical North American College BRADLEY EASTERBROOKS ‘22, DIOCESE OF SAN DIEGO AND ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA

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The Pontifical North American College has a rich history of sacred music. Over the years, seminarians have had the opportunity to sing for papal liturgies, either as deacons or in choral settings. In addition to Firmum est Cor Meum, the seminary has also released Regina Immaculata (2009). Regina Immaculata features music in honor of the Immaculate Conception, in particular, Maurice Duruflé’s Messe “Cum Jubilo.”

hen the prophet Isaiah was called up into heaven, he heard the angels singing, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts! All the earth is filled with his glory!” The angels recite this hymn continuously, and across the centuries, the People of God have sung this hymn with them at every Mass. Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger commented that sacred music is “not the work of a moment but participation in a history.” The sacred hymns we use in our liturgies unite our prayers with the faithful of various times and with the angels and saints in heaven.

“Adoramus te, Christe” and “Ave verum corpus” as well as more contemporary compositions like “E’en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come.”

In celebration of its 160th Anniversary, The Pontifical North American College has released an album of sacred hymns and motets recorded in spring 2019 by the seminary choir. The album is named after our motto, Firmum Est Cor Meum (“My heart is steadfast”), taken from the first verse of Psalm 108. The music is often heard from the choir loft during Masses and other solemn liturgies in the Immaculate Conception Chapel. It includes ancient classics such as

The recording was directed by Mr. Nicholas Will, Director of Liturgical Music at the College from 2018-20 and features the voices of forty NAC seminarians. The seminary choir accompanies Sunday masses and other solemn liturgies throughout the academic year. A compact disc is available for purchase on the College website as well as most online music streaming services (Pandora, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music). n

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The Pontifical North American College

Institute of Continuing Theological Education The Roman Sabbatical Experience EDITORIAL TEAM OF ROMAN ECHOES

very year, The Pontifical North American College has the opportunity to welcome priests to the Institute of Continuing Theological Education (ICTE), a program that gives priests the opportunity to enrich their minds by further theological study, in the hopes that it will enhance their pastoral ministry when they return home. On February 26, 2020, the editors of Roman Echoes had the opportunity to sit down with Fr. Derrek Scott, a priest of the Diocese of Pueblo, Colorado, and learn a little more about the Roman sabbatical experience. Fr. Scott, an alumnus of St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, was ordained a priest in 2001, and currently serves as the rector of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Pueblo, CO.

Fr. Scott, how did you learn about the ICTE program and what are some of the things you are doing with the ICTE program? ICTE was something that other priests from Pueblo have done in the past; for example, we had a priest here two years ago. When I first mentioned the possibility of doing a sabbatical program, all of those priests who had done ICTE recommended the program to me.

Had you been to Rome before, and what is your favorite part of Rome?

The Very Rev. Derrek Scott (Pueblo, Colorado) happily made the trip to Rome to attend the priests’ Institute of Continuing Theological Education at the Casa O’Toole on the College’s campus.

Our program this year does not necessarily have a specific theme but is a general continuing education program. We have had a mixture of classes in this spring course: bioethics, homiletics, canon law, and Christology. I think my favorite, so far, has been the Christology course. We also had a class on lectio divina and how to do it with a parish. Most of the professors we have had are professors from the Angelicum or Gregorian Universities in Rome. There is also an option for a trip to the Holy Land, which many of the priests are taking. I decided to stay and enjoy Rome.

This is my third time coming to Rome. I first came in 2000, on spring break, to visit a classmate from the college seminary who was studying at the North American College. I was able to visit for a week and stay at the College during that time. Then I returned again in 2017, when the Diocese was celebrating its 75th anniversary. Our patroness is St. Thérèse of Lisieux, so we took a pilgrimage to France and then stopped in Rome for a few days. My favorite part of Rome is the experience of the churches. There is so much history, especially the saints and martyrs. I enjoy getting out and walking around to see which churches I can find; it is always a surprise. St. Peter’s is always a memorable experience, but this time around I have been struck by Santa Maria della Vittoria and Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, both of which St. Thérèse recounts in her autobiography when she talks about her trip to Rome. Santa Croce in Gerusalemme has several relics of the crucifixion. n

ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Life and Times at the Casa Santa Maria

An Interview with Fr. Conn, SJ

E D I TO R I A L T E A M O F R O M A N EC H O E S he editors of Roman Echoes had the opportunity to sit down with Fr. James Conn, SJ, the Superior of the Casa Santa Maria, on February 21, 2020. We asked Fr. Conn about the history of the Casa, its role in the life of The Pontifical North American College, and his particular role as superior.

Fr. Conn, can you give a brief history of the Casa Santa Maria and the role it plays in the life of the Pontifical North American College? The Casa Santa Maria was originally the location of the College from its founding in 1859 onward. This is where it all happened. The seminarians, and whatever graduate students they had, lived at that College. At that time, the postgraduate degrees were different. The licentiate was done in one year, which was fourth theology. Postgraduate degrees were strengthened later on. When the Second World War started, the Americans had to flee. The pastor of my adolescent parish was here at the time, so he came home and finished seminary at Catholic University. That was what many others did as well. When the war was over, the seminarians came back. For a few years, the seminarians

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remained here while they built the Janiculum campus. The seminarians then moved to the Janiculum campus and the Casa remained the house for graduate students. During that time, most of the priests at the Casa were doctoral students. In short, the Casa is a residence for priests pursuing advanced degrees in the sacred sciences. We currently have student priests from the United States and Australia, much like the Janiculum campus.

What are some of the major differences between life at the Casa and life at the Janiculum Campus? Life at the Casa has fewer daily scheduled events than the Janiculum Campus. We have scheduled communal meals, as well as three daily concelebrated Masses. The lighter horarium allows for more intense study, which is necessary at the licentiate and doctorate levels. Many of the men take on apostolic activities, although it is not required, because they find it to be very life-giving. Some of the men, because they have finished their course work, spend most of their time writing their thesis or dissertation.

What is your role at the Casa Santa Maria? I am a pastor to fifty young priests. I interview each of the men in the house in the fall and the spring and have had very fruitful conversations with them, as a pastor would. I am not a religious superior, and I am not a seminary rector because the Casa is neither a religious community nor a diocesan seminary. Rather, we are a community of priests, in which I seek to foster a spirit of fraternity. I depend very much on our House Council, which consists of five student priests and allows for a strong fraternal element to our community.

How many residents are there currently at the Casa and what sorts of things are they studying? We have forty-seven student priests at the moment. In addition to them, there are three staff members. The major areas our student priests are studying are canon law, moral theology, liturgy, dogmatic theology, systematic theology, and scripture. The student priests study at the various universities throughout Rome. n

Origins of the Casa - An excerpt from the PNAC website: “The Casa building was founded as a Dominican monastery for young ladies of nobility by Francesca Orsini in 1601. The cloister was dedicated and blessed in 1613 under the patronage of Our Lady. The official title for the church and monastery is La Chiesa della Santa Maria Assunta al monastero dell’Umiltà.”

The Pontifical North American College

Faculty Corner

It’s Good to Be Home

R E V. DAV I D A . S C H U N K ’ 1 0, V I C E-R EC TO R FO R A D M I N I ST RAT I O N here is nothing like returning home. We have all experienced it, walking back into the rectory after a long day, pulling in the driveway from running around town with errands and appointments, or coming back from a trip out of town. There is peace when returning to the familiar. The same can be said when moving somewhere new. A new parish, house, job, or seminary. There is a freshness to the experience, a blank slate with all the exciting possibilities of what could be. Each year at the College, our community experiences both the joy of returning home and the excitement of new beginnings. For our Old Men and faculty, returning to the College this fall was a special homecoming. The incomplete spring semester and peculiar months that followed made it difficult for many in the community to settle down into a life-giving rhythm. Returning to the College meant returning to see friends in person rather than on a computer screen. It meant praying together, gathering to study together, and being able to share the experiences of the past several months. Returning was a time for stepping back into one’s room and knowing you are back home. The New Men shared a similar excitement. For most of them, their spring semesters ended abruptly without the usual goodbyes and farewells. But as they arrived at the College and stepped foot into the Immaculate Conception Chapel for

Rev. David Schunk ’10 (San Francisco) is the new Vice-Rector for Administration, replacing Rev. Kerry Abbot, OFM Conv. ICTE ’14. Here, Rev. Schunk stands in front of the façade-relief of the Immaculate Conception Chapel.

the first time, they could now say for certain they had arrived at their new home where they were beginning the next part of their journey to the priesthood. Only God knows what lays before them, but for now, they were home. Entering into the College, whether for the first time or hundredth time, shows us the importance of a place that calls itself a home. This year, the College embarked on a new project to create new places and new structures to keep our life and ministry fresh as we continue past 160 years of priestly formation. For many years, there has been a column in Roman Echoes called the “Economo’s Corner,” written by the Vice Rector for Administration/Economo. This past spring, the College instituted a new organizational structure which split the role, with a priest-faculty

member serving as the Vice Rector for Administration and a layperson serving as the Economo. The two roles may be likened to a Chief Program Officer and a Chief Financial Officer of an organization, with the VRA serving as the former and the Economo as the latter. Our new Economo, Dott. Michele Marconi, is a long-time employee of the College, having worked in our finance department and serving as a manager of special projects for the past several years, including the building of the new gym and the Casa renovation. He will be someone you will surely meet in upcoming articles. As the new VRA, I am beginning my fourth year on the College formation faculty, the previous three years being in the administrative role of Assistant Vice Rector as I worked under both vice rectors on shared projects and tasks. n

ROMAN ECHOES 2020 • VOLUME 25: ISSUE 1

Post-Pandemic Updates MARK RANDALL, CFRE • EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

he last issue of Roman Echoes you would have read was mailed to you in January – hard to believe! Thanks to COVID and our students’ early departure from Rome, we were unable to bring you Issues 3 and 4 from last academic year. But this issue tells the story that, although some of our communication and annual events were suspended, the noble work of priestly formation never stopped. Here are a few updates from the Office of Institutional Advancement since I wrote last:

2021 Rector’s Dinner

The 2020 Rector’s Dinner was cancelled in April, but as of this writing, we plan to hold the 2021 Rector’s Dinner – in person, in Rome – on April 15, 2021. We will be honoring Cardinal Sean O’Malley and Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Jilot.

2020 December 8th Annual Appeal

As you consider your year-end charitable giving, please keep the College in mind. Your 2020 December 8th Annual Appeal letter will be arriving soon. The Annual Appeal ensures that our operational budget will be fulfilled.

Advanced Giving Vehicles

Alumni

Alumni: don’t forget to save June 22-24, 2021 for the next Alumni Reunion, hosted by the Diocese of Orange in sunny California.

Social Media

Are you following our social media accounts? We post regularly on Facebook and Instagram.

We now accept Charitable Gift Annuities – a great way to make a substantial donation to the College, and retain an income stream for life. We will also be announcing a brand new PNAC Donor-Advised Fund: an attractive way to donate assets, and help the College and other non-profits at the same time.

Need a Speaker for your event?

Future trip plans

Travel with the College in 2021

The College hosts the Bishops’ Office for United States Visitors to the Vatican, as you likely know. Firmum Est While we await restrictions on travel Are you receiving our email newsletter, by foreign pilgrims to ease up, you “Firmum Est?” Sent every 3-4 weeks, can still contact the office to assist the email contains news and photos with future trip plans, papal events, from our two campuses in Rome. and more. See the website for updates: It’s free and a great way to stay in https://www.pnac.org/visitorsoffice/ touch. Sign up here: https://www.pnac. about-the-visitors-office/ org/support/newsletter/

Looking for a speaker for your Serra Club, Legatus chapter, etc. monthly meeting? I have an informative and light-hearted presentation that focuses on the journey to priesthood and the current state of vocations. Contact me to explore available dates in the coming months.

We are reviewing options to reschedule our Rome & Mediterranean Pilgrimage for October 2021. This year’s event was cancelled but given the long lead times to plan a land and sea adventure, we will be announcing the new itinerary and travel dates in early 2021. The trip includes attendance at the Diaconate Ordination and an extraordinary cruise to various coastal holy sites in Europe. n

May God bless you for your continued generosity to the College, and the men we serve! 42

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Your gift will help ensure our future! Watch your mailbox for your invitation.

Rector’s Dinner SAVE THE DATE Thursday, April 15, 2021

Your recurring gift makes a difference in the lives of our seminarians! ‘Cor Meum’ Sustaining Donors are a dedicated group of special supporters who pledge to donate not once or twice per year, but each month to help provide our program of priestly formation in Rome. We make it easy to do, via your credit card or bank ACH. For more information, please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement: pnacdc@pnac.org or 202-541-5411.

The Pontifical North American College Office of Institutional Advancement 3211 Fourth Street, NE Washington, D.C. 20017-1194 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED1

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) 470-6211 Email: pnacdc@pnac.org Website: www.pnac.org

With St. Peter's in the background, members of the class of 2024 have their photo taken with the Rector, Very Rev. Peter Harman '99 (Springfield in Illinois), on a beautiful October day.

Roman Echoes 2020 – Volume 25, Issue 1

Articles inside

Welcoming New Faculty

Orientation

Encountering the Holy Father

Snapshots

Virtual Fraternity

New Man Arrival

A Future Full of Hope

Institution of Acolyte

Snapshots

Remembering Our Yesterdays