In the class ahead of me, there were two guys I was pretty close
to who were sent to Patna. I thought, "Man, that's exactly
what I have in mind to do." In my final year of juniorate,
I was eating my heart out to go to the mission. I wanted to get
out there early, so I could learn the language. But that was the
year they sent five brothers to Patna Mission. No scholastics
were included. I headed for West Baden, Indiana, for my philosophy.
I think that the rector at that time, Paul Kavanaugh, really wanted
me to go, but couldn't push the provincial to send me just then.
One of the other achievements of my time as superior was the Godavari
Ashram on the compound of the Godavari School. I revamped the
teachers' house for a much-needed retreat house. Next to it, I
also designed and built a small chapel, the first self standing
chapel in Nepal. Octagonal in shape with a pagoda-style roof,
and mostly windows on the sides, the building became quite popular.
Another gem!
I've been here at Campion Center since August 2007. It's been
great! I love it here, and know that the Lord called me here.
I'm deeply moved every time I come to Mass and find so many Jesuits
in wheelchairs, on walkers, and using canes. To think of all their
years of dedication to Jesus and the Church! It's moving!
And after six weeks in the house, the rector asked me to be the
treasurer of the community. So it's back to the books! I've been
gone from my Midwest roots for so long that I know few in the
Chicago Province. In 2001 I joined the New England Province, and
expect to be planted in our cemetery right here.
Have I been able to see God's providence, support, and guidance
in my life? Very definitely! All the way through! No doubt about
it. That's why I'm sitting here now. Mother Mary has been a great
part of it all. That's why the "Magnificat" is my favorite
prayer. It typifies her spirituality of thankful praise.
