This past summer, seminarians and priests of the College were sent to six continents and dozens of countries. Some were priests in small parishes; others studied language and theology; still others served the poor in the hearts of cities. But one thing remained consistent: we were sent on mission.
Every Christian is sent into the world to carry the light of Christ. The particulars of our mission are not always crystal clear on this side of eternity. At various moments throughout our lives, the mission can appear lofty or simple, daunting or mundane. No matter the moment, we know that God desires to call us to himself and to send us forth in his service. Saint John Henry Newman reflected well in his famous prayer, writing, “God has created me to do him some definite service… He has not created me for naught. I shall do good; I shall do his work. If I am in sickness, my sickness may serve him, in perplexity, my perplexity may serve him.
If I am in sorrow, my sorrow may serve him. He does nothing in vain. He knows what he is about.”
God indeed knows what he is about! And over time, through grace, we come to know what he is about as well. In this issue of Roman Echoes, we hope you enjoy reading about some of the ways God has shown us his light and sent us to be a beacon of light in our many and varied mission fields. Please pray for our mission, and know that we will be praying for yours!
Editor-in-Chief
Kyle Lang ’26, Diocese of La Crosse
Contributors
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kyle Lang ‘26, Diocese of La Crosse
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Graham Fassero ‘27, Diocese of Richmond
Brendan Finnegan ‘27, Archdiocese of Hartford
PHOTO EDITOR & PHOTOGRAPHER
Steven Lang ‘26, Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis,
ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER
Christopher Tillotson ‘27, Diocese of Worcester
Administration
of The Pontifical North American College
RECTOR
Rev. Msgr. Thomas W. Powers ‘97
VICE RECTOR
Rev. Michael Pratt ‘11
CARL J. PETER CHAIR OF HOMILETICS
ROMAN ECHOES FACULTY LIAISON
Rev. Peter John Cameron, OP
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.
This publication is written, edited, and photographed by the seminarians of The Pontifical North American College.
COVER: Rev. Mr. Nicholas Stellpflug '25 (Green Bay) embraces Rev. Mr. Michael Rhodes '25 (Austin) after diaconate ordination.
THIS PAGE: New Men admire the Church of the Gesù.
BACK COVER: Msgr. Powers greets Christian Howlett ‘28 (Saint Paul and Minneapolis) after the New Man Orientation Mass.
RECTOR’S CORNER
The goal of the priestly formation program at the College is for a seminarian to be more and more configured to Jesus Christ, the High Priest.
Dear Friend of the Pontifical North American College,
In the Gospels, Jesus makes it abundantly clear that he is “sent” by the Father, a sending that defines all of his conduct and ministry: “I came down from heaven not to do my own will but the will of the one who sent me” (Jn. 6:38). Likewise, the Apostles, having been invited by Jesus to follow him and learn from him, are “sent” in his name to evangelize the world. The Lord tells them, “As the Father has sent me, so I send you” (Jn. 20:21).
I have noticed that priests who received formation at the College, rather than say that they “attended” the College, will more often say that they were “sent” to Rome to prepare for priesthood. From the very beginning of his theological preparation, a seminarian arrives here already with a keen sense of what it is to be sent—and sent far away from home! And after four or five years of priestly formation, when a man leaves the College for the last time, he stands before the entire seminary community while his name and diocese are read aloud, followed by the parting words: “Sent to preach the Gospel.”
The goal of the priestly formation program at the College is for a seminarian to be more and more configured to Jesus Christ, the High Priest. Part of that configuration is to embrace the obedience of Jesus, sent by the Father, and to accept that his life as a deacon and priest will mean being sent by his Archbishop or Bishop to various ministerial assignments. Please continue to pray for our men, who one day will be sent home to serve you and the lay faithful in the Church in the United States and Australia.
Know of my deep gratitude for your support, and be assured of my prayers and the prayers of the entire community of the Pontifical North American College.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Rev. Msgr. Thomas W. Powers ‘97 Rector
Welcome to our New Formation Team Members!
EDITORIAL STAFF
Rev. Armando Tolosa, Spiritual Director
Reverend Armando Tolosa grew up in Colombia as the youngest of four siblings. After moving to the United States in 1990, he had an encounter with Christ at a charismatic retreat, which led him to enter the seminary. Following studies at Saint John Vianney College Seminary (Florida) and Saint Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, he was ordained to the priesthood in 2010 for the Archdiocese of Miami. He has been parochial vicar at three parishes and was Pastor of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish in Miami. He received a certificate in spiritual direction and retreat ministry from Creighton University in 2016 and attended the ICTE program in the fall of 2024. He has served as a spiritual director at both the Saint John Vianney College Seminary in Miami and the Institute for Priestly Formation.
Rev. JunHee Lee, STL, ‘13, Coordinator of Human Formation
Reverend JunHee Lee ‘13 is from the Diocese of Brooklyn and was ordained a priest in 2013. Father Lee attended Immaculate Conception College Seminary in Douglaston, New York, and received a BA in Philosophy at Saint John’s University. He attended seminary at the Pontifical North American College and received his bachelor’s degree in sacred theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University and his licentiate in dogmatic theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas. Father Lee served as a parochial vicar for four years while assisting at the Vocations Office as a regional vocation director and as an adjunct teacher at the Cathedral Preparatory School and Seminary. After ordination, Father Lee completed a master’s of education in mental health counseling at Fordham University and a master’s degree in psychology at Divine Mercy University. He is a licensed psychologist (LMHC) in New York. Father Lee comes to the College as the Coordinator of Human Formation and a Formation Advisor.
Rev. Christopher Murphy, MA, MDiv, Spiritual Director
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Reverend Christopher Murphy was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Providence on June 23, 2012. He served for two years as the Assistant Pastor of Saint Thomas More Parish in Narragansett, Rhode Island. In 2014, Father Murphy was appointed Assistant Vocation Director and later served as the Director of Pre-Ordination Formation and Rector of Our Lady of Providence Seminary. He also served as the chaplain at Bishop Hendricken High School, an all-boys, Catholic, college-preparatory school in Warwick Rhode Island, from 2012 to 2018. Father Murphy earned his bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Providence College and was assigned to Saint John’s Seminary in Boston, where he earned a master’s of divinity and a master’s degree in theology.
Mr. David Swenson, Coordinator of Liturgical Music
Before arriving at the Pontifical North American College, Mr. David Swenson was Director of Music at Saint Mary Mother of God Catholic Church in Washington, DC, where he served since 2021. He has also served as organist in churches in DC, Maryland, and Virginia and taught a private studio of piano, organ, and saxophone students. This past summer, Mr. Swenson studied in Paris under the tutelage of the French organ masters including Olivier Penin, Jean-Baptiste Robin, Sophie-Véronique Cauchefer-Choplin, and Frederic Blanc.
Previously, Mr. Swenson studied at the University of Notre Dame, where he received his master’s of sacred music in 2021 and his bachelor’s degree in music and theology with a minor in philosophy in 2019. During his studies, he was an active church musician at parishes in the South Bend area as well as the Twin Cities and surrounding areas in Minnesota. His teachers have included Kola
Owolabi and Huw Lewis in organ, Carmen-Helena Téllez in conducting, Darlene Catello in harpsichord, and Preston Harrell in voice.
Mr. Swenson comes to the College with his wife, Clare.
Sister Celeste Mary Poche, RSM
Sister Celeste Mary, RSM, began serving as the Infirmarian of the Pontifical North American College in August. The Our Lady of Lourdes Infirmary remains an apostolate of the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma, Michigan. A native of New Orleans, Sister attended Louisiana State University and Loyola University of New Orleans, receiving an advanced degree in nursing. Before arriving in Rome, Sister was assigned to Knoxville, Tennessee, where she worked in a mobile clinic serving rural, uninsured individuals. Sister enjoys watching college football, cooking, and spending time outdoors. Her feast day is the Feast of the Guardian Angels. She lives in a community of five Sisters of Mercy at their convent in Rome.
Sr. Mary Magdalene Quinn, O.P., Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist
Sister Mary Magdalene, O.P., is a Dominican Sister of Mary Mother of the Eucharist based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She comes from a large Catholic family in Chicago. She professed her final vows in 2007. Sister holds degrees in theology, Spanish, and liberal arts from the University of Pamplona, Spain; Franciscan University of Steubenville; and Providence College. She has served her community as a high school teacher in Michigan, Arizona, Florida, Illinois, and New York.
Ten years ago, Sister had the great joy of studying spirituality and morality at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas. She considers it a privilege to be back in Rome, serving as a librarian at both the Pontifical North American College and Casa Santa Maria.
Apostolic Assignments
This summer, the men of Years I and II spent time in apostolic assignments on six continents.
Below is a list of the cities and dioceses represented, as well as photos from our various experiences!
Helena, MT
Great Falls-Billings, MT
Sioux City, IA
La Crosse, WI
Providence, RE
Portland, OR
Washington, D.C.
Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn
Nashville, TN
Dallas, TX
Galveston-Houston, TX
Albany, NY
Lansing, MI
Saginaw, MI
Southbridge, MA
Hanceville, AL
Baltimore, MD
St. Paul and Minneapolis, MN
Fort Wayne-South Bend, IN
Hartington, NE
Grand Island, NE
Omaha, NE
West Bend, WI
Paterson, NJ
Farmville, VA
Powhatan, VA
Springfield, OR
Madrid, Spain
Valenza, Italy
Trondheim, Norway
Lugo, Italy
Enego, Italy
Avila, Spain
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Mullingar, Ireland
Donegal, Ireland
Verbania, Italy
Sasebo, Japan
Luton, England
Tbilisi, Georgia (country)
Krakow, Poland
Lourdes, France
Tabora, Tanzania
Saluzzo, Italy
Santiago, Spain
Vicenza, Italy
Lurin, Peru
Sydney, Australia
Sent to Bled Island
NICHOLAS CHAPMAN ‘27, ARCHDIOCESE OF HARTFORD
My summer pastor told me, “Nick, next week I want you on the island.” I had been sent to volunteer on Bled Island, the most visited place in Slovenia thanks to its picturesque church and thriving café.
I arrived each morning at the football-field-sized island via gondola boat and chose to joyfully complete whatever tasks I was given. I scrubbed pigeon droppings and swept out the bell tower stairs; I emptied trash bags full of empty gelato cups. In the church, I welcomed visitors and helped them ring the legendary “Wishing Bell.” Time with my co-workers eventually led to faith conversations and sharing my vocation story. The week felt like ministry crossed with a high-school summer job, and I loved my time sent to Bled Island. n
Cambodia: Living in the Apostolic Age
ZAVIOR FRANCK ‘27, DIOCESE OF DULUTH
Living as a missionary in Cambodia this summer was in many ways like living in the Apostolic Age. There were limited resources, major language and cultural barriers, and no support from underlying Christian values within the society. It was a unique environment to serve and witness in, which allowed me to encounter Christ and humanity in a new way. I saw firsthand how the Gospel is truly universal and that the hearts of people all over the world long for the Good News of Jesus Christ, even though they may not know him yet. This wonderfully encouraged me and gave me hope. Overall, it was a humbling experience, as I came to more deeply understand my need and that of the whole world for a Savior: Jesus Christ. n
this page top to bottom: Nicholas on Bled Island; Zavior in Cambodia page 11 top to bottom: From the Camino; Justin and friends in Switzerland
In Camino, Insieme!
WILLIAM WATERS
‘27,
ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON AND ARCHDIOCESE OF THE MILITARY SERVICES
Cresting the ridgeline of the Sierra Fonfarón with four other seminarians, we gazed at Los Hospitales could almost hear Santiago calling from 200 ki lometers down the trail. Continuing our fourteen-day journey on the Camino Primitivo, we found to our delight that other new friends had heard Saint James’ call too. Local Spanish nationals, rosary-toting Croatian pilgrims, and a strong contingent of Danish soccer players were just a few of the walking-weary travelers with whom we rubbed shoulders. While some were faith ful pilgrims, others were just there for the views, but all seemed drawn by the regular chanted prayer that echoed over the trail from our hearts. What a grace to be sent by God to encounter each other “In Camino, Insieme!” n
Unexpected Gifts
JUSTIN SEIDLECK ‘27, ARCHDIOCESE OF WASHINGTON
This past summer in Italy was truly a blessing. The first half of my summer consisted of language studies in Verbania, Italy, before heading to an Italian parish. The two weeks in Verbania provided a great atmo sphere for studies, relaxation, and fraternity. The town is located in northern Italy on Lago Maggiore near Milan, and we live and study in an old monastery-turned-hotel. During my time in Verbania, I was able to grow in the Italian language while enjoying time with seminarian brothers. A highlight of my time there was a day trip on motorini into Switzerland and back with Nicholas Chapman ‘27 (Hartford), Reverend Mr. Sam Hill ‘25 (Richmond), and Bruce Cargill ‘27 (Metuchen). God blessed us with a picturesque day and beautiful scenery for this adventure. n
A Fountain of Eucharistic Mercy
PATRICK ERNST ‘26, DIOCESE OF FORT WAYNE-SOUTH BEND
In July, the 10th National Eucharistic Congress came to Indiana. Close to twenty seminarians and priests of the College were in attendance!
“Go!” “Get out of here!” “Go back home!” The message was clear from the Most Reverend Andrew Cozzens C‘06, Bishop of Crookston, at the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress. It was the end of the congress, and Bishop Cozzens was sending us pilgrims out as Eucharistic missionaries, men and women who had experienced Jesus in a substantial and unique way in Indianapolis.
As a seminarian who volunteered at the Congress, I had the chance to witness the powerful connection between the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. My task was a logistical one: to direct penitents to available priest-confessors. What made the work profound for me was the sheer number of confessions heard. Standing in a space where eighty confessions were happening simultaneously was like standing in an ocean of mercy. As the revitalized pilgrims left the confessional area, one attendee commented: “I feel like a trillion bucks!” Another said: “That was my first confession in over forty years.” From these comments, I realized that such great mercy can only be a result of the gift of Jesus in the Eucharist.
The Church emphasizes that the strength of the other sacraments comes first through the Eucharist. This is why the Catechism of the Council of Trent compares the Eucharist to a “fountain” and the other sacraments to “rivulets.” It continues to say that “the Holy Eucharist is truly and necessarily to be called the fountain of all graces, containing, as it does, after an admirable manner, the fountain itself of celestial gifts and graces, and the Author of all the Sacraments, Christ Our Lord, from whom, as from its source, is derived whatever of goodness and perfection the other sacraments possess.”
What I learned at the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress, is that the Eucharist is a fountain of mercy which we are called to experience and share with others. So why are you still reading this article? Go! Get out of here! Share Eucharistic mercy with the world! n
Living the Ministry of Presence
MICHAEL FIGURA ‘26, ARCHDIOCESE OF OMAHA
When people ask what it is like living in Rome, I explain that, while I have learned and experienced so much in Italy, being far away from home has surprisingly deepened my interest in my own country, state, and diocese. After two years abroad, I returned to Omaha, Nebraska, with a new energy to meet and encounter the people there.
I spent my summer at Saint Vincent de Paul Parish, where I learned the hidden value of the ministry of presence. Much of Jesus’ ministry involved meeting people in seemingly insignificant human activities. I imagine that during those three years of traveling around Israel and meeting people, he and his disciples would have shared many a good meal, a good conversation, a good
laugh—all parts of Jesus’ ministry of presence to those around him. And today, the Lord continues to act powerfully in our lives through our willingness to be present to those around us in all our activities.
I felt the Lord call me to serve his flock in many hidden ways this summer: a meaningful conversation after Mass, helping a child with homework during dinner at a parishioner’s home, praying with a stranger in a coffee shop, playing kickball with the youth group, eating homemade ice cream with young men in the discernment group—and many more. While these simple actions may not always seem significant to the world, I remind myself that our Lord became man for this very reason, to meet each of us in the ordinariness of our humanity. n
VOICES OF NAC
Where in Rome do you feel most sent on mission?
I feel most sent on mission after praying at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican. I especially enjoy praying at the tomb of Saint Peter himself. It is surreal to go out into Rome after praying before the bones of a man who heard our Lord say, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.”
Victor Baez ‘27, Diocese of Tyler
I feel most sent on mission when I lead pilgrimage groups on tours of the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. It’s my opportunity to share the faith and explain that like Saint Paul, even great sinners can become great saints.
Reverend Mr. Michael Rhodes ‘25, Diocese of Austin
I have felt most sent in Saint Peter's Square, where people from all over the world gather in the very heart of the Church. Encountering the Universal Church there has provided me with great reminders of the human desire for God and the need to spread the Gospel to all those who have not yet experienced his love!
Kyle Rohan ‘28, Diocese of Green Bay
I feel most on mission when I am inside the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican. I have fallen in love with helping show others that the basilica is more than a building or museum full of beauty; it is God’s house drawing us toward better worship and understanding of who he is.
Steven Lang ‘26, Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis
A Father Never Quits
REVEREND MR. PAULO SALAZAR ‘25, DIOCESE OF BROOKLYN
Over this past year of being in a parish and taking part in many different and fruitful ministries, only one word comes to mind—Fatherhood. In a diocese with over 1.5 million Catholics, it can seem daunting to attempt to be a father to so many people. However, through God’s providence, I learned the importance of being a father to all.
My parishioners showed me the faithful’s vision of the priest as father. Every day they would speak to me about their joys or sufferings, or simply recount the events of their day to me. I was incredibly lucky to have a school attached to the parish. It was here that I found a great sense of fatherhood. Every morning, I would pray with the students. During the week, I would go to their classrooms to teach classes and to see how they were doing. At recess, we would play basketball or volleyball. To be a father, one must be present to his community, which he considers his spiritual children.
The greatest growth in my fatherhood came about through hospital ministry. In this ministry, I was given the chance to accompany the sick and the dying. Every father wants to take away the pain of his child and carry the burden himself. But as much as he desires to do this, it is often impossible, which is what led me to realize how vital is the presence of the priest as father: A father is a minister of presence. As my pastoral year was ending, I was most grateful for the joy that I felt in being a spiritual father through good times and bad. Priests are called to dispense the holy sacraments of God to the faithful, and always with a tender, fatherly love. n
Orientation Reflections
New Men in the Community
CARL BERNER ‘27, ARCHDIOCESE OF DENVER
This fall, I had the privilege of directing Orientation for the thirty-eight first-year seminarians coming to the Pontifical North American College. This essential part of the College experience is more than making sure that the New Men know how to use the laundry machines or where to find their mailbox. Rather, Orientation exists to help New Men integrate into the community. To do so, the Orientation Team, consisting of second-year seminarians, accompanies them through the transition, hands on the traditions of the community, and leads excursions to the must-see churches and pilgrimage sites throughout the city of Rome. We share meals, laughs, toasts, sports, and more meals. As the weeks of Orientation move along, the New Men begin to grow comfortable amid the change. Their personalities begin to show, their senses of humor are uncovered, their gifts and talents are on display. These men, already in love with God and well formed in the Christian life, soon begin to hunger not so much for gelato as for the opportunity to give themselves to the brothers in the house in the same way that they have received. And when this occurs, we know for sure that Orientation is complete.
We Used to Come by Boat
DOMINIC WOLTERS ‘28, ARCHDIOCESE OF SAINT PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS
Until the 1970’s, New Men to the Pontifical North American College came by boat. After disembarking, they would be greeted in procession to the chapel by the faculty’s applause. While the class of 2028 didn’t come by boat, we still walked in their footsteps and received the same greeting. In the short time it took to round the corner and enter the chapel, something shifted among our group: we went from being a confused and awkward crowd of strangers, trying to figure out who’s who, to a class of men being welcomed to live in relationship with Christ in the Father’s house. It was equal parts strange and surreal to be clapped for while walking into the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, yet it was also revealing because it showed clearly that joy is the driver of our life in Rome. Throughout the rest of orientation, the same joy that welcomed us into the Chapel brought us together in prayer, in conferences, at meals, and in house activities. The joy-filled brotherhood that began in our procession continues to strengthen and flourish—and it cries out in gratitude to a tradition that began by those who used to come by boat.
Quo Vadis?
THOMAS CROWLEY ‘27, DIOCESE OF LANSING
This summer, thirty-eight men left family, friends, and the comforts of home to come to Rome—no small sacrifice. The Early Orientation team welcomes the New Men before they leave for Italian studies. I had the privilege of leading Early Orientation and welcoming the new class to the Pontifical North American College. I was struck anew by the daunting task that they face— entering a community where they hardly knew anyone and a country with an unfamiliar culture and customs.
As I reflect on the challenges these New Men face, I cannot help but think of the Church of Domine Quo Vadis, which we visited during Early Orientation. On the site of this church, almost two thousand years ago, as Saint Peter was leaving Rome to escape persecution, he saw Jesus walking toward Rome. Saint Peter said to Jesus, “Domine, quo vadis?” or, “Lord, Where are you going?” Our Lord responded, “I am going to Rome to be crucified again.” Peter then returned to Rome to continue his work, eventually to be crucified himself.
The journey of our New Men is not so different. They—like Saint Peter—have encountered Our Lord, asked, “Domine, quo vadis?” and followed him to Rome. While they will not likely be martyred near the Vatican, they do have a mission here, given by God. And by our daily encounters with Jesus, all of us as Christians receive the strength to be sent by him, knowing that, wherever he sends us, he will go before us, just as he went before Saint Peter almost two thousand years ago.
Lives for the Lord
DANIEL O’KELLY ‘28, ARCHDIOCESE OF SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
As we paused at the foot of the sanctuary and turned to behold the statues of the twelve apostles that flank the nave of the Papal Basilica of Saint John in Lateran, Sister Emanuela Edwards, MDR, remarked, “Each of you are here because the apostles gave their life for the Lord whom they knew and loved.”
Months earlier, our respective bishops had given word that they desired to send us to Rome. Days earlier, thirty of us “New Men” had been with our families in our home dioceses across America and Australia. Now we were in the heart of the Church, being guided through fourth-century basilicas, praying in the Church of Domine Quo Vadis, celebrating Mass in the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus, climbing the Holy Stairs where Christ once walked, and praying with the saints.
It is difficult to capture the smorgasbord of new experiences and changes that occurred within a few days—jet lag, new climate, food, languages (Italian and American for me!), customs, people, and routines. Yet throughout Early Orientation, we were pointed to Christ, present in the Eucharist, and were offered many opportunities to spend time with him in adoration and prayer. We were warmly welcomed by Monsignor Thomas W. Powers ‘97, Rector of the College; the formation team; and second-year seminarians who had been preparing and praying for us in the months prior to our arrival. We were made to feel at home and had many opportunities for fraternity and to become acquainted with the city of Rome.
As we begin this new chapter in our journey, I pray that we— like the apostles—will give our lives for the Lord whom we are coming to know and love each day and, God-willing, be sent as priests to share the love and grace we have received.
Have You Ever Thought about Being a Priest?
REVEREND MR. SCOTT FYALL ‘25, DIOCESE OF AUSTIN
“Have you ever thought about being a priest?” This was a question that many people asked me throughout my life, and which took me a long time to answer sincerely. Whenever people asked me about the priesthood, I would thank them for the compliment and quickly change the subject. Throughout high school, my pastor would ask, “How is that discernment going?” I recall one time looking at him and responding, “It isn’t.”
Growing up, I was an altar server and a lector. As a teen, I was active in youth group, and I assisted with an RCIA program as a young professional. I never missed Sunday Mass, even in college, and my faith was a source of happiness. Yet, I thought the priesthood would be “someone else’s job.” Someone else’s son would make that sacrifice, not me. I had my own plans, and God was going to help me realize them.
That was until my plans hit a wall. I had been hard-driving and aspirational my whole life. From being recruited to play football at my top-choice college, to working at a prestigious think tank in Washington, D.C., I constantly pushed myself to “achieve.” But honestly, in my heart, I just wanted to be happy. That happiness, I found, had nothing to do with what I could accomplish, but everything to do with relationships with loved ones, and, more importantly, with my relationship with God and his Church.
When I realized there was no upward path in my career, and as personal and life pressures began to take their toll on me, I made a dramatic change. I left my job and joined a startup run by fellow Catholics in the D.C. area. Three months into the job, however, I asked myself, “What am I doing?” I realized that the answer to the pain I was experiencing was not to find a new job, but to discover God’s plan for my life. I began to wonder if those who had encouraged me over the years could see something in me that I could not. Perhaps the Lord had been trying to reveal the joy he had set aside for me from all eternity through one recurring question. And so, for the first time, I began to ask myself, “Is God calling me to be a priest?”
My soul moved swiftly, and a feeling of joy and peace overcame me when I finally said out loud, “Yes, I think he is.” After speaking to trusted priests, donating most of my possessions, hearing words of affirmation from my friends—one of whom said, “I knew it!” when I revealed I was going to seminary—I moved home to Austin. It was the best decision of my life. Now, in my final year of formation for the priesthood here in Rome, I am as grateful as ever to those who posed the question, “Have you ever thought about being a priest?” I pray that many more men may come to know the happiness of saying with their whole heart, “Yes.” n
What We Saw and Heard
GRAHAM FASSERO ‘27, DIOCESE OF RICHMOND
We interviewed friends and family of the fifteen men ordained to the diaconate on October 3. Here is what they said:
He walked in with the biggest smile on his face, and it never left. You could see the light in him.
—Alicia Schubert Mother of Rev. Mr. Tristan Schubert ‘25 (Portland, Oregon)
When everyone processed in, the immensity of the Church showing up was overwhelming. To know that the Church in America shows up—from all over the country—is just amazing.
—David Vetch Father of Rev. Mr. Max Vetch ‘25 (Rapid City)
I have always put my son in Mary’s arms and asked her to let him know what God wants him to do. And when he lay on the floor, I started praying to Mary again, “Please put your arms around my son.”
—Marion Williams
Mother of Rev. Mr. Robert Williams ‘25 (Tulsa)
When they were all lying down, I became emotional, teary-eyed. I said, “Thank you, Jesus! Thank you, Jesus! Thank you, Jesus, for choosing them.”
—Margaret Odigwe
Mother of Rev. Mr. Chukwuma Odigwe ‘25 (Washington)
I had experienced the Litany of the Saints three times in my life, but never with [the ordinands] lying on the floor. I had goosebumps. And when the Archbishop thanked the parents for raising their sons for God, I wanted to applaud.
—Fabio Wimberger Friend of Rev. Mr. Marco Cerritelli ‘25 (Washington)
At the laying on of hands, I was crying. I could see he was getting emotional, and I was getting emotional, but in a great way.
—Andrew Hamrick Brother of Rev. Mr. Christian Hamrick ‘25 (Nashville)
It was so beautiful! When they vested, I thought, “It’s a big responsibility that they have now with God. We have to pray continually, that they will continue to follow what God wants for them.
—Marianna Lora Godmother of Rev. Mr. Paulo Salazar ‘25 (Brooklyn)
The choir and the organ just brought tears to my eyes—it was so moving. To hear that beautiful music in that beautiful space brings it all together—God’s beauty, and everything that he hopes to share with us.
—Amy Hofer-Vetch
Aunt of Rev. Mr. Max Vetch
The ordination at the basilica was angelic. Having known the trajectory of his journey to this point, it made me emotional. And I’m glad for our family—those who have been keeping vigil for him even up till now.
—Reverend Chike Uba
Uncle of Rev. Mr. Kevin Obiesie ‘25 (Santa Fe)
When they put the vestments on him, that’s when it really sunk in. I’m excited for Mass tomorrow—and his first homily!
—Brianna Ramirez Cousin of Rev. Mr. Christian Corona ‘25 (Tyler)
I Have Searched You and I Know You
FROM THE FIRST HOMILY OF REVEREND MR. JACOB TSCHIDA ‘25, DIOCESE OF DULUTH
Wherever you’re at in your walk of faith, this is the Lord’s promise: the next step in that journey will be a response to an experience of his love. I propose that that means that your next step closer to Jesus Christ has already been outlined for you this week. What were some of the mighty deeds the Lord performed in your midst this past week? Maybe it was a minute of silence in one of Rome’s beautiful Churches. Maybe it was when you encountered something true that struck you in a new way. Or maybe it was when, like Job, after an experience of suffering and difficulty that happened while you were traveling, you could discern the Lord’s voice in it: “I see you. I know you. I know well the plans I have for you.”
We are no longer continually frustrated and disappointed when we try to follow Christ and drop the ball. Instead, the Lord this week has shown you mighty deeds, given you experiences of his love as lifelines, as ropes thrown from heaven that he wants you to notice, to cling to, and to let them pull you up the mountain.
Our job at this Mass is to bring whatever that moment is to the altar. To give thanks for it, because the Eucharist means “thanksgiving.” The altar is the place where we know more than anything else that God does not expect repentance or conversion to come from a scolding. The altar is a testament to God providing
himself as our sacrifice, in his precious body and blood, and our job is just to say thank you, eucharistia.
His plan for your conversion is a response to an experience of his love. Because our God says in the psalm today, “I have searched you, and I know you. I know when you sit and when you stand. I understand your thoughts from afar. Your journey and your rest, I know them. With all your ways I am familiar. I knit you together in your mother’s womb, formed your inmost being. And wonderful are my works.” n
Who Is the
Deacon?
FROM THE HOMILY OF THE MOST REVER END ALEXANDER SAMPLE, ARCHBISHOP OF PORTLAND IN OREGON
To ask, “What does a deacon do?” is to ask the wrong question. The question should be, “Who is the deacon? Who is this man who comes forward and whom the Church dedicates to ministry?” This is the question, because everything a deacon does, everything a priest does, everything a bishop does, flows from who he is. That’s the primary reality that we celebrate today.
So who is the deacon? The deacon is an icon of Christ the servant. The servant. These men today are going to be sacramentally configured to Christ as servant. The deacon is configured to Christ in his identity as servant. Jesus is the servant. He is the servant. We might even say, with the prophets, the “suffering servant.” He is the Son of the Father, the eternal Son of God made
top: Rev. Mr. Jacob Tschida '25 (Duluth) preaches at the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican. bottom: The Most Rev. Alexander Sample processes in before the Ordination Mass.
More Alive
FROM THE FIRST HOMILY OF REVEREND MR. MAX VETCH ‘25, DIOCESE OF RAPID CITY
When I was a junior in high school and going through a very tough time, the school counselor, who in his own way is a saintly man, had great wisdom to share with me. He told a depressed high schooler, “I want you to wear the Miraculous Medal, I want you to pray the rosary every day, and I want you to pray Psalm 139 every day.” Now with the first two, I was a little too cool for school and didn’t want to give that kind of effort. However, I took the Bible and put it on the breakfast table, and in the morning I would read Psalm 139. It is amazing wisdom my counselor gave me, because Psalm 139 is the perfect answer to anyone asking the question, “Why is life worthwhile? What’s this all about?” In a lot of ways, Psalm 139 is saying this:
God is interested in me. He knows and understands me. Even my thoughts make sense to him. He cares what I am up to. I can’t do anything to escape his loving presence. Not even sin or hatred can turn him away. When I feel close to him or when I feel like I’m going through the worst I can experience, he’s there as my guide. He made me on purpose and loves me.
He loves what he made, for what he made is good. He will never leave me to wander alone.
He’s guiding me always to everlasting life, where he longs to be with me forever.
This kind of message is the kind of thing that changes lives. It definitely changed mine, which is why I am standing here
flesh. And what does he serve? He serves us the great gift of salvation. He has come for that. And he himself speaks to us of this in the gospel we have just heard. The apostles are weak men just like all of us, so they argue among themselves from time to time about who is most important,…comparing themselves to each other: Who’s the greatest? Who’s the most important? Who does Jesus love more? I’m sure Peter, James, and John got a lot of trouble from the others at times when Jesus would go off with them by themselves.
But Jesus calls them out on this. And Jesus says, “No, you guys don’t get it. You know how those in authority lord it over those
today. And this love changes the saints, one of whom we celebrate today. Saint Francis of Assisi was a playboy soldier, but after encountering the love of God, he threw everything away, started building a church, and began a religious order that has spread throughout the entire world. And we pray today for his intercession.
There is only one kind of love that can inspire and change somebody that profoundly, and it’s the love that we read about in Psalm 139 from a God who knows us intimately and wants everlasting life for us.
When I read those words at the breakfast table, they made me more alive. And in a similar way we approach, not a breakfast table today, but we approach the altar, where we, too, become more alive. n
under them? They make their importance felt.” Have you ever been in a room with someone who makes their importance felt? The minute they walk into the room, it’s like, “Woah.” Jesus says, “This is not the way it can be with you.” And men, he’s speaking especially to you today. He speaks to all of us, but today he speaks to you in a special way. Whoever wishes to be the first among you must be the servant of all. A slave. Slave. And then he makes reference to himself. “For the Son of Man has not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for the many.” This is the image that you take upon yourselves today in the Ordination to the Diaconate. n
photo: Rev. Mr. Max Vetch '25 (Rapid City) preaches at the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls.
Thanks Be to God!
DILLON JOHNSON ‘27, DIOCESE OF RAPID CITY
We, the Church, rejoice, for men have been added to her ranks of ministers.
As the Rite of Ordination begins, the ordaining bishop says, “Relying on the help of the Lord God and of our Savior Jesus Christ, we choose these our brothers for the Order of the Diaconate,” followed by the congregation’s declaring, “Thanks be to God!” Witnessing any man ordained to the diaconate or priesthood is a great privilege but, watching a man you know is sheer grace.
As I looked on in the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican on the morning of October 3rd, I could not help but feel that very grace. This man, whom I had known since high school, was now being called by the Church to Holy Orders. After graduating together in 2017, we had gone our separate ways: Reverend Mr. Maxwell Vetch ‘24 (Rapid City) pursued his vocation in seminary while I went off to college. Never could I
have imagined that, seven years later, I would be calling him a diocesan brother, walking alongside him as he prepared for ordination—but there he was that morning, found worthy and called by the Church. The same man I had served alongside on the senior retreat team, the same man I played tennis with, the same brother who guided me through my first year in Rome— was now changed in a moment. It is hard to describe the scene. Most simply, it was one of joy, as, on that October day in the heart of the Church, I watched him be found worthy and called forth to serve the Lord and his bride, the Church.
After being found worthy to be ordained, the “Thanks be to God” on the part of the people of God is a recognition of the sheer and unending grace God continues to pour out. He will keep calling forth men like Deacon Vetch and the other fourteen men ordained that day—good and virtuous men ready to commit their lives to the service of God, the Church, and others. Truly, it was a day to rejoice! n
Left: Rev. Mr. Max Vetch ‘24 (Rapid City) with Dillon Johnson ‘27 (Rapid City).
Right: Rev. Mr. Vetch greets friends after his ordination.
Send the Gospel
REV. JAMES FANGMEYER ‘24, ARCHDIOCESE OF WASHINGTON
“Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the Gospel,”
Saint Paul told the Corinthians to worship the one true God (circa 60 AD). The Holy Spirit chose this line for all those gathered to celebrate Mass on Friday of the Twenty-First Week in Ordinary Time; it was the first reading. On that day, I celebrated the opening school Mass at Saint Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Upper Marlboro, Maryland—my first ever school Mass.
The first duty of a priest is to preach. “How will they believe, if no one has preached?” Saint Paul challenged. My friendship with Reverend Mr. Thomas O’Donnell ‘25 (Baltimore), my mentorship from Reverend Peter John Cameron, O.P., Carl J. Peter Chair of Homiletics, and my studies of Reverend Louis Bouyer (Introduction to the Spiritual Life, Chapter 9) convicted me of this gift and responsibility. “Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!” The Gospel for that opening Mass was Jesus’ parable of the ten virgins with oil lamps—not the easiest Gospel when preaching to schoolchildren. Yet in prayer, I received the call and the grace (God always sends grace when he calls!) to preach “Christ, the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength” (cf. 1 Cor 1:24-25).
The students, teachers, and even the parents who came to the school Mass were attracted and encouraged when I preached to them: “The oil in the lamp is the story in your life. You each have a story that is valuable because it is only yours, with its own warmth and light, and you cannot buy that from anyone else or make it up. Just as the bridegroom wanted to come to see the oil burning in the lamps, so Jesus wants to come to hear your story. This is what happens when you pray. He wants to come to see your life. That is what happens when we are together, this year, in Saint Mary’s School.”
I am saddened that my time with the Saint Mary’s School community was brief. I have since returned to my own school, the Pontifical Gregorian University, where I will finish my license in biblical theology this academic year. This is all God’s gift. He sent us his only Son, his Word, his Gospel, so that we can be challenged, convicted, and sent to preach this Good News, whom we love. n
Photos: Rev. James Fangmeyer ‘24 (Washington) was ordained to the priesthood on
WHAT WE’RE READING
An Apologia for a Moral Life
CHARLES DEREUIL II ‘26, ARCHDIOCESE OF SAINT PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS
In the previous edition of Roman Echoes, Reverend Mr. Thomas O’Donnell ‘25 (Baltimore) discussed Sigrid Undset’s excellent biography of Saint Catherine of Siena. Sticking with the same author, I will be reflecting on the trilogy Kristin Lavransdatter. I have come across few, if any, more compelling depictions of a fictional character than Kristin. The trilogy, which spans the entirety of Kristin’s life, masterfully captures the aspirations and challenges which accompany every stage of life.
Sigrid Undset’s presentation of the moral life is the most compelling element of the novel. Novels are often moralizing. Depictions of characters doing ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ always paint morality in an unattractive light if they fail to convict the reader that right and wrong are beneficial to the person without coercion. In her novel, Undset shows that the virtues of her characters strengthen their friendships and enrich their communities. On the other hand—and this seems to occupy most of the trilogy—the immoral and vicious actions of her characters not only hurt those closest to them but also betray their own happiness.
The virtue of fidelity takes center stage at pivotal moments in the novel. Every major point of the story seems to concern one or another character’s struggle with fidelity. In many ways, Kristin’s life is tragic. The betrayal she experiences by those closest to her leaves her in significant suffering. Her own acts of betrayal often further isolate her from those who love her. However, it is the fidelity of saintly figures—and, above all, God’s faithfulness to Kristin—that shines as a beacon of hope throughout the novel, always promising a path to conversion, and, when you least expect it, subverting tragedy and letting the beauty of life shine forth. n
Near to Christ’s Sacred Heart
MICHAEL ANCTIL ‘27, DIOCESE OF RICHMOND
Saint Claude La Colombière’s collection of Sermons on Christian Conduct, translated by William O’Brien, is a treasure of spiritual reflections on the dispositions and actions that contribute to a life devoted to Christ. In January, I discovered Claude—a canonized French Jesuit who was the spiritual director of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque and helped to discern the validity of her mystical visions regarding the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
In twelve parts, Saint Claude effectively assesses worldly habits and behaviors, giving pastoral guidance to the reader on the proper and virtuous Christian response. His style is direct, yet charitable, with a consistent grounding in Sacred Scripture. The sermons are as relevant today as they must have been to his congregation in the 17th century. His sermons also indicate his gift as an orator, which added to my excitement for this September’s preaching workshops.
For the reader, Saint Claude clearly depicts the love of God for mankind and the advantages of a deep relationship with him, contrasted with the dangers of the lesser things one is tempted to choose. By clearly showing the goodness and justice of turning to God with one’s whole heart, Saint Claude provides the reader ample material to reflect upon and pray over as he strives for a life of greater holiness. Indeed, that is his objective: to move the listener to a consistent and holy life dedicated to God and his will, to live the perfection called for by the Lord (cf. Mt 5:48). As the French saint writes, “All that he [God] commands us has only our own interest for its goal.” The more we understand this—helped by saintly writings like those in this book—the more successful we will be at following the great and beautiful path God has planned for each one of us. n
Starting Is the Hardest Part
BRUCE CARGILL ‘26, DIOCESE OF METUCHEN
Bruce Cargill shares his pencil drawing of Our Lady of Guadalupe and a reflection on “the difficulty of starting artistic work.”
Starting is the hardest part the shackles I create for myself which halt a good desire why do I play this cruel game? why can’t I stoke this fire? this fire of love born of a spark in the cold, dark depths of my hard yet repentant heart this spark which reignites with every warm embrace from beauty in Creation from the light of my Father’s face
I want to take this with me this Beauty ever new to recreate the splendor like every morning dew and yet, how can I achieve this being finite as I am? to reflect infinite Beauty to echo the Creator’s plan?
a summit too high above me a peak I cannot reach no better a goal than to count the grains of sand along the beach
yet You who knew and formed me within my mother’s womb surely wove this in me Your design upon the loom and You, Almighty Father, Omnipotent, Most High; it is You who spark within me it is You who start the fire
so surely I believe this I know it to be true You will bring it to completion this work in me we do.
REFLECTIONS
Holy Anticipation
REED ROBINSON ‘26, DIOCESE OF NASHVILLE
FIRST SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1: LUKE 21:25-28; 34-36
The First Sunday of Advent begins our journey to welcome Christ at Christmas. The Church, in her wisdom, sets aside this season as a time of waiting and preparation to prepare our hearts and minds for the celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord. In our readings in the Mass, Christ himself reminds us of the importance of holy preparation. May we listen attentively to His words and take care to assure that our “hearts do not become drowsy from…the anxieties of everyday life.” How easy it is to get caught up in the daily tasks of work, school, and family—all good things, but things that can draw us ever so slightly away from the center of our lives, Jesus Christ. May the impending arrival of our King be ever on our hearts this Advent season, and may we love him more deeply each day.
Becoming the Message
LUCAS FOLAN ‘26, DIOCESE OF PATERSON
SECOND SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8: LUKE:3:1-6
The mission of every baptized Christian to preach the coming of Christ’s kingdom into our own time and place is thrilling. We, as messengers, are called to become the message ourselves. Saint John the Baptist drew crowds not simply because he “proclaimed a baptism of repentance,” but because his radical way of life embodied the “God-orientedness” that his hearers (including us) are invited to embrace. While John’s locust-eating habits are not for everyone, Saint Paul puts the apostolate into perspective when he tells the Philippians that he longs for them “with the affection of Christ Jesus.” To become the message is to become Christ, to love with his own heart. As we adore his Most Sacred Heart in its earliest moments at Bethlehem, let us not be afraid to lift it out of the manger and carry it into every moment of our lives, especially the most ordinary.
Fear Not, the Lord Is Near
NOAH HUDDLESTON ‘26, DIOCESE OF GRAND ISLAND
THIRD SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15: LUKE 3:10-18
Have no fear? Forget my anxieties? Did the authors of the first and second readings live carefree lives? Did they not know that I, in the future, would have fear and anxiety? How, then, can I “fear not” and “have no anxiety at all”?
We can cast off our worries only when we realize that “the Lord is near.” The eternal Word of God took on our human nature to experience everything we do, save for sin. He is born both at Christmas and in our hearts, especially in times of fear and uncertainty. Like the wheat in the Gospel, Jesus comes to gather us into his barn—his Father’s house—a place of security and peace. His loving presence gives us the confidence to cast off all our fears and anxieties. Let us “rejoice in the Lord always,” for he comes as a mighty Savior to dwell in our midst.
Sent with Haste
KALEB MITCHELL ‘26, DIOCESE OF HELENA
FOURTH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22: LUKE 1:39-45
Mary is a model for us all in the Christian life. Immediately after the Annunciation, she goes to the hill country to meet Elizabeth. Sacred Scripture specifically says that she went with “haste.” The Visitation inspires us all to be sent out and share the Gospel. The Holy Spirit descended upon her, and she became the Mother of God. Instead of resting while pregnant, our Blessed Mother went to share the gift of her divine Son. Mary knew that the salvific offer of Jesus Christ was not exclusively for her but was meant to be sent to all persons, as it still is today. Mary models this with her “hasty” visit to Elizabeth. As disciples of Christ, we must break out of our comfort zones and proclaim the Kingdom in ways unique to our individual talents. Let us ask Mary for her intercession in our great evangelical task.
Gordon Hayward Enters the Catholic Church
THE EDITORS
Retired NBA player Gordon Hayward has always said that he played basketball “for the glory of God.” This intentional pursuit of the faith led him to join the Catholic Church, and after stepping away from fourteen seasons of professional basketball, on October 1, Hayward stepped through the doors of Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls, and was received into the Catholic Church by the Most Reverend Timothy Broglio ‘77,
Archbishop for the Military Services. Several seminarians of the College assisted at the Mass, serving, singing, and praying for the intercession of Saint Sebastian, the patron saint of athletes and Hayward’s confirmation name.
Hayward family, may God bless your apostolate. You can count on our prayers! n
Bottom (L to R): Rev. Marcel Taillon ‘94 (Providence), Archbishop Broglio '77, Gordon Hayward, sponsor Maxwell Van Vliet, Rev. Msgr. Thomas Powers ‘97 (Bridgeport), Rev. Chris Murphy (Providence). Seminarians Jakob Pohlman ‘27 (Worcester, AMS), Joseph Schon ‘28 (Bismarck), Bill Waters ‘27 (Galveston-Houston, AMS), Gordon Hayward, Joseph Richter ‘27 (Bismarck), Michael Anctil ‘27 (Richmond), Father Taillon '94, Connor Lynch ‘27 (Des Moines).
CSM
CASA SANTA MARIA
The Casa Santa Maria serves as a house of continuing formation and residence for English-speaking priests who are assigned to pursue graduate-level studies in Rome. Below, Rev. Michael Masteller, C'29, (Los Angeles) reflects upon his first few months at the Casa.
Sent for Studies
REV. MICHAEL MASTELLER, C’29, ARCHDIOCESE
The Lord said to Abram:
OF LOS ANGELES
“Go forth from your land, your relatives, and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you…” (Gen 12:1)
(Los Angeles)
I find myself coming back to this story of Abraham often during these first few weeks in Rome. I have been reading and rereading this passage, and it has taught, guided, and encouraged me during this time of transition in my life.
What strikes me is the total demand that God gives him: “Leave everything and follow me.” But what I find even more surprising is that Abraham actually obeys and follows it. He allows God to send him into the unknown. As great as God’s call is to Abraham, it does not paralyze him; instead, with trusting faith, Abraham obeys and follows the Lord.
For a parish priest, it is not easy to leave pastoral ministry and return to studies. After being ordained a priest, my focus and zeal were for pastoral work and to be busy in the Lord’s vineyard. In being invited and sent by my archbishop to do further studies, my life as a priest has changed. I was asked to leave behind the life that had become familiar and dear to me and to begin a new chapter of my priesthood and a new way of serving the Church. Like Abraham, I was being sent into a foreign land.
However, in contemplating Abraham, I have begun to see the tremendous grace of being sent into the unknown. It is an opportunity to allow the Lord once again to guide me through life, to bring me to a new land of blessings. Even though it can be uncomfortable at times, being sent into the unknown allows me to place my life back into the hands of the Father. It provides me with another chance to give him a profound expression of trust and love. To be sent with only God’s promise is to be able to reaffirm what I once gave him on the day of my ordination: “This is my life—do with me what you will.”
Like Abraham, I know that this new chapter will have its share of challenges and difficulties, but as I look back at my life and see how the Lord has never let me down but has always fulfilled my hopes, this gives me the courage to set out once again and follow him wherever he chooses to lead me. n
Michael Masteller, C'29,
ICTE
INSTITUTE FOR CONTINUING THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION
ICTE has been committed to the ongoing education and formation of clergy since 1971. Three autumn modules are offered, as well as a spring semester. If you are a priest interested in ICTE as a sabbatical experience, please contact romeshabat@pnac.org.
that continuing formation is a priest’s duty. Though seminary years seem long, they are only a small part of a priest’s life. Throughout his life, a priest must nurture the seeds planted during his initial formation and continue planting anew to serve God’s people worthily.
FR. EDWARD LINTON, OSB –ICTE DIRECTOR
When priests prepare to leave for a sabbatical in Rome, their parishioners often say, “I hope you have a great vacation, Father. You deserve it!” Of course, these parishioners want to be supportive of their beloved priest. They recognize that their priest works hard and needs rest, and they are truly happy for their priest. However, when priests arrive in Rome, they learn that a sabbatical is no vacation, nor do they deserve it!
One of the first visits sabbatical priests make is to the Dicastery for the Clergy. There, they are reminded by the prefect of the Dicastery, His Eminence Lazzaro Cardinal You Heung-sik or its secretary, the Most Reverend Andrés Gabriel Ferrada-Moreira,
It is a blessing to live in Rome for several months in a villa, the Casa O’Toole, on the Janiculum Hill. However, priests coming to Rome for sabbatical know that they don’t deserve it. The blessing is a gift from God and from many generous benefactors who want them to become the priests God is calling them to be. Indeed, the good priest will say, as Saint Luke writes, “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty” (Lk 17:9).
It is the priest’s duty to nurture his priestly vocation for the good of the people he serves. Walking away from one’s familiar life for the long period of a sabbatical can be disquieting. But priests do this from time to time to expand their minds and hearts by living in priestly community, by study, and by deep personal prayer.
The ICTE spring dates are January 20-April 14, 2025. Not only does the program include stimulating lectures, but Rome itself is available as an “open classroom.” Being in Rome during Lent, with the possibility of visiting the station churches, is an
added bonus. The program includes a five-day canonical retreat in Assisi. Also, a nine-day optional pilgrimage to Turkey in the footsteps of Saint Paul and visiting the churches of the Apocalypse is offered.
The ICTE fall modules will run from September 8-November 21, 2025. Module 1 will explore scriptures that connect with the idea of Jubilee, especially those used by Pope Francis in his letter announcing the Jubilee of Hope. This module will include a six-day tour of northern Italy, exploring the churches and monasteries that pilgrims have visited for millennia on their journey toward Rome.
Module 2 is entitled, “Jubilee Preaching.” This module will explore the preaching of the popes about the Jubilee year. It will also help priests consider new ways to preach the experience of Jubilee in their parishes. This module will include several day trips, as well as frequent tours around Rome.
Module 3, “The Art of Jubilee” will study the art and architecture that has been initiated throughout the ages to celebrate the Jubilee. This module will include a six-day tour of the Burgundy region of France with renowned art historian, Dr. Elizabeth Lev.
For more information, please contact romeshabat@pnac.org. n
ALUMNI
This year’s issue of Roman Echoes will include an alumni segment, which both offers “words of wisdom” to seminarians about priestly ministry and shares insight with readers about the life of a priest years after departing the College. Father Bazzel reflects here on how the patience demanded of Saint Peter has shaped his priesthood.
Petrine Patience
VERY REVEREND KEVIN M. BAZZEL ‘01, C’06, DIOCESE OF BIRMINGHAM
As many seminarians and priests have discovered, seminary formation is filled with ups and downs as a man seeks to cooperate with God’s grace first to become the best man he can be, and then the image of Christ that he is called to be. In some ways, one could say that preparation for the priesthood is a backand-forth series of “God forbid, Lord! No such thing shall ever happen to you” moments, and “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” moments.
Saint Peter provides us a preeminent example of the patience required for a man to undergo a total formation of his humanity in seminary, and the same patience necessary for fruitful priestly ministry. He was the beneficiary of the Lord’s patience as he grew in his appreciation of who Christ truly was and what he would require of his followers. It was no small feat to go from “Get behind me Satan” to “Feed my sheep”. But this demonstrates the Lord’s patience in assisting Peter to conform to His will. Surely this is what Saint Peter had in mind when he wrote, “And consider the patience of our Lord as salvation…” (2 Pt 1:15).
Saint Peter also had to be patient with himself. Imagine his interior sorrow hearing that cock crow twice, a painful reminder of his threefold betrayal of our Lord, and an even more painful remind-
er of the fact that the Lord himself had already told him that he would do it. If Peter had not been patient with himself, he never would have been able to accept the threefold opportunity for repentance our Lord offered him.
Finally, Saint Peter had to be patient with his fellow man. After all, Peter would go a long way from cutting off the soldier’s ear before the Lord’s Passion to turning back to the city of Rome to undergo his own passion. Had he not manifested this patience, he would have avoided that singular moment at the circus on the Vatican Hill, which stands today as a memorial reminding us that glory in heaven awaits those who lay down their lives in love for God and service to their fellow man.
Peter was brought to the Lord by his brother Andrew and was sent by the Lord in the end to confirm the faith of his brethren. In between these moments, Peter was enveloped in a magnificent embrace of patience—patience from the Lord and patience with himself—the fruit of which was patience with those for whom he was called to offer his life, so that they might experience and imitate the same.
However, the need for this interwoven work of patience does not end in initial priestly formation. In my own ministry,
I know that I must continually receive the Lord’s patience, especially in confession, regarding my own ministerial shortcomings. In the new endeavors which the Lord presents to me, I must be patient with myself in accepting the opportunities they bring to grow in holiness, priestly virtue, and knowledge of ecclesiastical things, both spiritual and temporal. After all, patience is not an excuse for idleness. It is a need based on peacefully cooperating with the Lord for the progress necessary to continue priestly life in any circumstance. And whether I have found myself in parish life, being a formator at the Pontifical North American College, or in administrative positions in the diocese or in the Holy See, I hope I have manifested the fruit of the patience I have received from the Lord and from myself, in ministering for and with those whom the Lord has happily placed along my journey.
Through the intercession of Saint Peter, may all seminarians and priests be immersed in this same Petrine patience. Thus, may we deeply sense the Lord’s desire continually to transform our humanity, may we never waver in our desire to be transformed, and may we go wherever the Lord leads us to assist those entrusted to our care “to attain the goal of [their] faith, the salvation of [their] souls” (1 Pt 1:9). n
“NOVA ET VETERA” alumni newsletter
FALL 2024
My Fellow Alumni,
I hope you are getting excited about our upcoming Alumni Reunion in Rome this January 2025, 2025! This is an opportunity to come together from different areas of service in the Lord’s vineyard to encourage each other, to reconnect with the source of our formation or sabbatical renewal, and to be touched by the grace of Jesus Christ while on pilgrimage.
We all know the amazing energy and sacrifice that goes into getting the parish, school, religious education program, and so many other church entities up and running for a new year after the summer holidays. And it is all worth the effort because we are fostering the mission of Jesus Christ to draw all into his Passion, Death and Resurrection. We are leading our people in glorifying our heavenly Father and we are building up the Body of Christ on earth! So too, the time we take to foster renewal and priestly fraternity is worth the effort, and it is something we need for our ministry.
All the preparation—with Peter’s Way Tours; the Alumni Association’s Rita McCabe and Emily Theisen; Monsignor Thomas W. Powers ‘97, Rector of the College; and the staff of the Pontifical North American College—is at the service of us, the alumni, for the blessings of a Rome reunion this January 2025.
Especially in these times, as our Church faces sobering challenges and we as alumni are often on the front lines with our Catholic community, being together as priests will give us strength and renewal to navigate the path ahead.
This is the reason why I think it is so important for all of us to consider participating in our 2025 Alumni Reunion. Going to the Heart of the Church during a Jubilee Year to pray at the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul, to receive the Vicar of Christ’s blessing, and to renew our faith in Jesus Christ as true God and true man during the anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, will be a source of strength, blessing, and friendship for us.
To register for the reunion, please see the reunion message on the next page.
I look forward to some wonderful days of reunion with you in Rome in January! In Christ,
Msgr. Luke M. Sweeney ‘01 (New York), Former Adjunct Faculty Executive Secretary
alumni member update
REV. JOHN LARRY RICHARDT ’63 (Indianapolis) continues as Adjunct Spiritual Director at Bishop Simon Brute College Seminary in Indianapolis.
REV. JAY HARVEY PETERSON ’78, F’08 ICTE (Great Falls - Billings) was appointed in November 2023 Chancellor pro tempore of the Diocese of Great Falls - Billings.
REV. MSGR. DENNIS L. MIKULANIS, STD ’77, C’86 (San Diego) retired on July 1, 2023, and is still active with parish supply when needed.
REV. DANIEL J. KAMPSCHNEIDER ’79, C’97, F’23 ICTE (Omaha) has retired as Pastor of Saint Vincent de Paul Parish in Omaha. Archbishop George Lucas has appointed him as Vicar for Retired Priests for the Archdiocese of Omaha.
REV. MSGR. PAUL F. DELADURANTAYE ’88 (Arlington), after completing six years of service in the Secretariat of State, was named a Chaplain of
His Holiness by Pope Francis on June 25, 2024 and was appointed Chancellor of the Diocese of Arlington. He will also be teaching Bioethics at The Catholic University of America for the Fall 2024 semester.
REV. MARK S. MALLAK ’88 (New Ulm) is active in substituting for priests in parishes throughout the New Ulm diocese, as well as being involved in Worldwide Marriage Encounter ministry in English and Spanish throughout the country.
REV. RONALD L. SIMBOLI S’90 ICTE (Greensburg) is enjoying retirement, as well as doing weekend Mass coverage for diocesan and international priests. He is looking forward to a twenty day Croatian trip in August and an October retreat in Assisi.
REV. MSGR. JOSEPH R. REILLY, STL, PHD ’91 (Newark) was appointed as the 22nd president of Seton Hall University in April 2024.
REV. H. GREGORY WEST, JCL C’95 (Charleston) constructed and dedicated a new $25 million, national award-winning church, which opened debt-free. It is a ten-year-old parish of 1,100 households.
REV. CHRISTOPHER D. MURPHY ’96 (Arlington) celebrated his 10th year as pastor of Saint Stephen the Martyr Parish in Middleburg this summer and will be dedicating a new church of his Saint Katharine Drexel Mission in Haymarket.
REV. ROBERT W. DILLON ’97 (New York) is currently pastor of St. Patrick’s Parish on Staten Island, New York.
REV. BLAISE R. BERG ’98 C’00 (Sacramento) is serving as Assistant Professor of Dogmatics at Saint Patrick’s Seminary in Menlo Park, CA.
REV. ROGER LANDRY ’99 (Fall River) named national director of the Pontifical Missions Societies in the United States.
online at
VERY REV. STEVEN P. BESEAU C’00, C’06 (Kansas City in Kansas) completed his five-year term as Rector-President of the Pontifical College Josephinum in June 2024. The Cardinal-Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy extended his appointment another three years, to conclude in June 2027.
REV. JOHN E. BOLL F’00 ICTE (Sacamento) retired 14 years ago, but with the lack of clergy to help fill in for priests working in parishes, he works harder now than when he was active in parish ministry. He reports that, in January 2025, he is going to slow down. On Christmas Day, he will celebrate his 82nd birthday!
REV. ROBERT LEWIS BELIGOTTI F’09, F’18 ICTE (Rochester) reports that his twin brother, Rev. Richard John Beligotti F’09, F’18 (Rochester), died on April 26, 2024, at Tidewell Hospice Home in Venice, FL. Tests found cancer in his left lung. Two Masses were celebrated for him: on May 1 by Most Rev. Frank Joseph Dewane ’88, C’89 (Venice), and on May 8 by Most Rev. Salvatore Ronald Matano, STL, JCD, DD ’72, C’83 (Rochester). He is interred at St Mary’s of the Lake Cemetery in Watkins Glen, NY.
REV. SAMUEL R. SPIERING, JCL
’12 C’23 (Great Falls - Billings) has been appointed Chancellor and Vicar for Clergy for the Diocese of Great Falls-Billings, Montana.
REV. TIMOTHY JOSEPH FURLOW ’15 (Portland in Oregon) was appointed Director of Continuing Education for Clergy for the Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon effective July 1, 2024.
REV. GERARD J. GENTLEMAN F’15
ICTE (Rockville Center) is pastor of St. Rose of Lima, Massapequa, NY. He also serves as National Chaplain for the National Catholic Committee on Scouting.
REV. JAMES MICHAEL HIGGINS
S’16 ICTE (London in Canada) has retired after 49 years of active ministry and is living in Blessed Sacrament rectory by the gracious hospitality of Rev. John Jasica. In these first months of retirement he has come to realize the graces that God continues to pour down on us and has been willing to assist his brothers by covering weekends while they have a chance to get away. He thanks God for this time and prays that he will continue to serve him.
REV. MICHAEL A. FRIEDEL ’17 (Springfield in Illinois) is now the pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Springfield, Illinois, as of August 19, 2024.
REV. SHAWN C. ROSER ’18 (Venice), after serving as Director of Vocations and Seminary Formation for the Diocese of Venice for the last five years, has been assigned as parochial vicar at the Church of the Resurrection of Our Lord in Fort Myers, FL. Rev. Alex Pince ’21 (Venice) is the new Vocations Director.
REV. PATRICK S. AGUSTIN ’20 (Washington) was named administrator of Saint Cecilia Parish, Saint Mary’s City, Maryland, and Saint Peter Claver Parish, Saint Inigoes, Maryland; from parochial vicar at Saint Martin of Tours Parish, Gaithersburg, Maryland.
REV. MICHAEL BERNDT ’20 (Springfield in Illinois) was appointed pastor of a small parish in Charleston, IL, as well as named by the Most Rev. Thomas John Paprocki C’91 (Springfield in Illinois) as the Director of Campus Ministry for Eastern Illinois University, located in the same city.
REV. FR. JUSTIN K. WEBER ’20 (Milwaukee) recently moved from Holy Family in Fond du Lac and just completed his first year as administrator of Saint Jude the Apostle Parish in Wauwatosa, WI.
Thank you for your participation in the Alumni Association of the Pontifical North American College! Please continue your support of the Association by paying your yearly alumni dues of $35 online at pnacalumni.org or by mailing a check to the Alumni Association.
PNAC Alumni Association
c/o Msgr. Luke Sweeney 8 Carman Road
Scarsdale, NY 10583
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Submit news items for the next Nova et Vetera
All Souls' Day
As we approach All Souls Day, a reflection on one of our own Pontifical North American College alumni from John McCabe:
The pandemic impacted so much of our collective lives in many ways. I was booked for my long-awaited first trip to Italy the same week the lock down began in the US. Fast forward three years and an amazing opportunity emerged to visit Rome with my wife, Rita McCabe (Executive Assistant of the Alumni Association), and Monsignor Luke Sweeney to attend the 2023 Pontifical North American College Annual Rector’s Dinner. I was excited to finally get to Italy and planned a multi-city trip, starting in Rome. It never occurred to me what I was about to encounter on the trip.
I am named after a Catholic priest, Monsignor John Francis McCabe, my father’s brother. He passed away at 47 when I was in my early teens. I remember him well, especially his resounding laughter on Sunday nights after dinner. All I knew about his life as a priest was that he had studied in Rome, worked at the tribunal in NYC, and lived at Saint Monica’s Parish.
In preparing for the trip, I started to think more about “Uncle Jackie.” My father died in 1980, and my mother and other family members who would know any details have also passed. I recall the stories of how sad everyone was when he left on a boat out of New York City to head to Rome. His own father had died at 38, and my uncle was the patriarch of the family. I also recall hearing about the excitement when both of my grandmothers traveled to Rome for his ordination. I remember how wonderful he was to me and my six brothers. We were all so proud of him and loved spending time with him. I’m not sure how he did it, but every year he gave the best and most appropriate presents to each one of us at Christmas.
We arrived at the Pontifical North American College after a red-eye flight and jumped right in to experience the College first-hand. First, we are blessed to be able to meet some of the seminarians and enjoy pranzo with them. What amazing young men! It made me so excited about the future of the Church. Then it struck me: this must be where my uncle went to school! I mentioned it to Monsignor Sweeney, and he said, “Well, let’s go find out!” Sure enough, in the hallway are pictures of each graduating class, and on the very first one I turned to, he jumped off the page at me! One of thirty-three priests in the Class of 1954. There are no words to describe how I felt: sheer excitement and a profound connection to him. Then I learned that the building opened in 1952, so he had, in fact, walked the very same halls where I now stood. As I traveled around Rome—including visiting the four Papal Basilicas—I just kept thinking how he was here, and I felt him with me every step of the way. I still do!
I texted a picture of the class photo to my brothers back in the US. They were shocked and thrilled that I had found Uncle Jackie in Rome! I am blessed with a very large extended family, so when I posted the picture on social media after my trip, the comments, texts, emails, and phone calls went on for days! It gave me the opportunity to explain to them about the College. I explained that the great mission of the College and its connection to the Vatican is alive and well today. I can honestly share that it was one of the most moving experiences of my life.
The long-awaited trip to Rome was a great success, but, like many things in life, not for the reasons I expected. Yes, the food was amazing, and the history and art were incredible. But the special part for me was the depth of connection to our faith, and experiencing it through my time at the College. Seeing it firsthand was what made it so special—the amazing young men preparing to serve all of us—and realizing that my uncle was one of them, proud to dedicate his life to the Catholic Church, and training at the center of our faith. The College now holds a special place for me and my entire family!
8/21/2024 Rev. Nicholas Gregoris STD '97 C'01 (Scranton)
8/18/2024 Rev. John Holleman '82 (Mobile)
7/21/2024 Rev. James Swiat S'89 ICTE (Lansing)
7/18/2024 Very Rev. Kenneth Kaucheck C'91 (Detroit)
7/17/2024 Rev. Charles Fanelli '71 (Chicago)
7/14/2024 Rev. Msgr. Andrew Schumacher '60, F'91 ICTE (Boise)
7/1/2024 Rev. Msgr. Raymond Kirk '60 (San Diego)
6/22/2024 Dr. Anthony Padovano '60 (Newark)
6/15/2024 Rev. David Reeson S'19 ICTE (Omaha)
6/9/2024 Rev. Robert Kelly '74 (Altoona-Johnstown)
10/8/2023 Rev. Msgr. Anthony Sherman S'11 ICTE (Brooklyn)
10/5/2023 Rev. Harry John Meyer '65 (Cincinnati)
A Special Request, Times Two
MARK RANDALL, CFRE • EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
The Pontifical North American College, from its earliest beginnings, has relied on the generosity of those who understand the importance of priestly formation in Rome (our lay benefactors), or have experienced it firsthand (our alumni.)
Sustaining the entire College – the Seminary, the Casa Santa Maria, and the Institute for Continuing Theological Education – is a significant challenge but one that has been met for the past 165 years.
As we approach the end of the calendar year and the beginning of the Jubilee year, we have two special requests for your continued help.
You are most likely aware of our December 8th Annual Appeal. Named for the date of our founding in 1859, the Appeal is a critical element of our annual fundraising plan that helps balance our budget. Bishops who send seminarians and student priests to the College pay tuition, room and board. Additional revenue must be secured via fundraising since the College receives no regular funding from the Holy See or the US Conference of Catholic Bishops.
A gift to the December 8th Annual Appeal literally helps keep the lights on… and meals prepared…and staff paid…
and candles lit… and so on. This is the type of annual support that most every non-profit organization relies on. And we are hopeful that you will include us in your year-end philanthropy.
Additionally, we have an additional request for your help: our Restored in Hope campaign. I wrote about this earlier this year, how on the occasion of the upcoming Jubilee year, this campaign will impact the College for the next 25 years, and beyond.
This large-scale initiative addresses a variety of infrastructure needs that follow a history of efforts to maintain our extensive facilities. It has been several years since our $18M “To Echo Christ” campaign included the construction of the new classroom tower at the seminary, and almost 20 years since our $25M “Vision For the Future,” which provided numerous renovations to the seminary campus and graduate house.
Some elements of the campaign are beautification projects, an important aspect of our Seminary campus: cleaning the façade, renovation of the main cortile, replacement of the fountain systems, and so on. We will also be renovating the stage area of the Corso Auditorium.
Other campaign elements are more “hidden” but critical for the daily life of our students: replacement of the entire plumbing system, a conversion from oil to natural gas for our boiler, and several roof replacements to repair leaks.
The Casa Santa Maria will also benefit from the initiative with a new student fitness center, new elevators, and a renovation of the main kitchen.
Our alumni have already responded tremendously to the campaign. Of course, having lived on our campuses they can easily visualize the projects and the value of the planned renovations.
Benefactors and friends of the College will soon receive a letter from our rector, Monsignor Thomas Powers ’97 presenting both the December 8th Annual Appeal and the Restored in Hope campaign. Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration of this special “times two” request. n
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 I Fax: (202) 470-6211 I Email: pnacdc@pnac.org I Website: www.pnac.org
Wednesday * , April 30, 2025 at the Janiculum Campus, Rome
We look forward to seeing you for this wonderful celebration of our mission and those who so generously support our work. Make your travel plans soon - the Jubilee Year in 2025 will bring many people to Rome! Rector’s Dinner tickets will be available in January.
