Tom Opfer, Principal, St. Paul VI Catholic High School, Daniel P. Wisniewski, OSFS, Director of Oblate Education, Reagan McGovern, St. Paul VI Catholic High School, Jack Kolodziej, OSFS, Provincial, Wilmington-Philadelphia Province.
Fr. John Crossin, OSFS, dedicated his ministry to promoting ecumenism and working for unity. He died last May 2023, just a few months after publishing his latest book. Fr. Crossin was recognized as a national leader in ecumenism and served on the US Conference of Bishops. After his death, his family, friends, and Oblate brothers formed a partnership to continue his work.
One of their efforts was establishing the Annual Fr. John Crossin, OSFS, Christian Unity Essay Contest. The inaugural contest focused on the 2024 theme for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (January 18-25, 2024). This was “You shall love the Lord your God…and your neighbor as yourself (Luke 10:27).” It focused on the parable of the Good Samaritan, with a particular emphasis on the concept of “love of neighbor” through the lens of Salesian Spirituality.
The Partnership received 29 essay submissions from high school students enrolled at six schools:
Salesianum School (Wilmington, DE)
Father Judge High School (Philadelphia, PA)
St. Paul VI Catholic High School (Chantilly, VA)
Padua Academy (Wilmington, DE)
Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School (Washington, DC)
St. Francis de Sales High School (Toledo, OH)
The winning essay was written by Reagan McGovern from St. Paul VI High School (where the Oblates administered for many years). Honorable mention was awarded to Joshua Deslouches from Father Judge High School. Reagan and Joshua received their prizes at their schools in ceremonies with Fr. Jack Kolodziej, OSFS, Provincial, and Bro. Dan Wisnieswki, OSFS, Assistant Provincial.
All high school student entrants received a Salesian gift from the Oblates in appreciation of their participation in this essay contest. So many creative and inspiring ideas were shared in the student essays, and it was a pleasure to witness the impact of the spirituality of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal on the discussion about love of neighbor.
Both Reagan and Joshua talk about the aspects of Salesian Spirituality that can help us love our neighbors. In her essay, Reagan highlights the concept of “holy indifference.” She states:
“We can move beyond our own biases and judgments, and approach others with openness and acceptance. It encourages us to listen attentively, seeking to understand rather than to impose our own views.”
Joshua complements her statement by sharing how to put the teaching into practice:
“Salesian Spiritual life and love for our diverse neighbors must be assisted by efforts that promote understanding and unity. This can include engaging in conversations with people of different faiths, volunteering in different communities, and learning about different cultures.”
There is much to learn from these Salesian students! We extend our best wishes and blessings for continued success to all students who participated in the essay contest. In the words of our patron, “Be who you are, and be that well!”
