Francis & Me: Dr. Carol Raphael

Dr. Carol Raphael: Parishioner of Saint John Neumann in Reston, VA

Dr. Carol Raphael

The most important influence in my life today is the spirituality of Saint Francis de Sales.  Following Francis helps me to become closer to God each day and as my relationship with God grows closer, the joy in life also increases.

I did not always know Francis de Sales and his gentle spirituality.  My first introduction to Francis occurred when my oldest son attended an Oblate high school.  It increased as I worked with the Oblates at a new high school in my area.  Meeting Francis for me was like being offered a cup of ice water after being in the desert.  I wanted to know more.  I read the Golden Counsels and Introduction to the Devout Life.  I grew in the love of God aided by the gentle ways of Saint Francis.  All of the things I thought of as important became secondary to the peace and joy I felt getting to know Francis’ writings.  If I thought there was a better life somewhere else, Francis reminds me not to build castles in Spain when I live in France.

When I worry about what is going to happen in the future, Francis reminds me not to worry about tomorrow for God will take care of me.  When I think I am not enough, he reminds me to be who I am and be that well.  Francis teaches me to hold on to God with one hand at all times and that God really loves me with all my faults and sins.  God loves me for me – just me.  I am unique in the eyes of God. There is no one like me.  God loves us all as who we are. 

Like all of us, my life is filled with challenges.  Francis shows me how to deal with any challenges life offers.  In times of illness or upset, I remember that I am holding God’s hand through all things. Francis de Sales is the answer to what I truly search for – peace and tranquility.  I often hear Francis’ reminder not to lose my inner peace for anything even if the whole world seems upset (Golden Counsels, 2015).  Peace fills me with joy, and when I am filled with joy, I radiate that joy to others.  It is not I who do this but the Spirit which works through me.  Without God, I can do nothing,  

As Francis tells us, the path to holiness is a path we can all follow.  With my hand in God’s and my heart with Francis, I am on that path.

Live Jesus! Delaware 2022 FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need to register in advance?

There is no charge for the event thanks to the generosity of individual sponsors. By registering you make it possible for us to be good stewards of these generous gifts. At registration, you may choose to make a contribution but this is not required.

How do I learn more about Salesian Spirituality?

Visit www.oblates.org and click on the Spirituality tab. You can also watch videos by clicking on the Live Jesus! Use the link HERE.

Who can attend Live Jesus!?

Everyone – high school students through adults.

Where is Live Jesus! held?

St. Margaret of Scotland Church, 2431 Frazer Road, Newark, DE 19702. This is the second year that the Oblates have been administering at St. Margaret of Scotland Church.

What time does the event program?

Doors open at 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM Morning Prayer, 9:30 AM Session 1, 10:15 AM Hospitality Break, 10:45 AM Session 2, 11:30 AM Brief Break to prepare for Mass, 11:45 AM Advent Mass: 12:30 PM Closing/Departure

What is the dress code?

Come as you are! Most arrive dressed in business casual.

What if I have more questions?

Call the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales at 410-398-3057 or email info@oblates.org

Live Jesus! Delaware 2022 Speakers

Father Joseph Newman, OSFS

Vice-President, St. Francis de Sales High School

Presentation Title: Can I be Reached?

Description: When I was a new teacher, I remember asking my mentor, “How do I reach my students?”  My mentor looked at me and said, “Joe, that’s the wrong question.  You need to ask, - Can you be reached?” This is a presentation on how my students reached me to reveal the divine in my life.

About Father Joe: I am educated and formed by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales.  I grew up as an altar server at a parish with an Oblate in Toledo Ohio.  I graduated from an Oblate high school, St. Francis de Sales.  I now minister at the same school!  I have worked as a teacher, coach, admissions director, and now, vice-president.  I love the work of education, it is worth my life.

Father Newman has a Bachelor of Science from DeSales University in Biology and a Masters of Divinity from the University of Toronto. He is a proud graduate of St. Francis de Sales High School, (2003) where he has ministered since 2013.

You can watch a short video of Father Joe sharing his thoughts on his vocation and what it means to Live Jesus here.

---

 Diane Casey, Principal

Presentation Title:  Living in the Moment

Description: The journey we are on is relational and we need each other to grow in holiness. We are all children of God and everyone is a reflection of God’s love. Each day is a gift to be experienced and lived to the fullest. Embrace and love the people who are part of your journey and live your Salesian Spirituality as if it was contagious.

About Diane Casey:

I grew up in Delaware County and lived there with my Irish Catholic family of five brothers and four sisters. I am the seventh child. I attended Catholic school until college. My first job out of college was at Northeast Catholic High School in Philadelphia. I thought I would have a short stint here but fell in love with the Oblates, students, and Salesian Spirituality. Twenty-three years later the school closed but the friendships and spirituality were nurtured and embraced.

I ministered as a teacher, activities director, and assistant principal of student affairs at North Catholic. I took a sabbatical when the school closed and received my Master’s certificate in Spiritual Direction from Neumann University. Following my sabbatical, I started working as a theology teacher at Cardinal O'Hara and later as the Assistant Principal of Academic Affairs.  Presently I am teaching Theology and am the principal of Saint Mark’s High School in Delaware.  I feel I have come full circle when I first walked into Saint Mark’s, a portrait of Saint Francis de Sales was hanging at the entrance. I felt as if I was home. 

I am a wife to my devoted husband Mike of 33 years and a mother of four wonderful children (Michael, Meghan, Eddie, and Danny).

I love my life and the gift of spirituality that can be shared with everyone or anyone, on any given day.

Live Jesus! Delaware 2022

Live Jesus! Delaware is a morning reflection sponsored by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. Gather in fellowship and prayer centered around the humble and gentle spirituality of Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Jane de Chantal.

Theme: “All Through Love, Nothing Through Fear.”

Why Should I Attend Live Jesus!? Watch HERE.

Salesian Spirituality helps believers develop a  deeper relationship with God through Jesus by defining a lifestyle centered on the little virtues: gentleness,  humility,  patience,  gratitude,  perseverance, and simplicity.  This special event is an opportunity to retreat from our fast-paced world and turn to the quietness of our hearts.  

Live Jesus! Delaware is being held as a special Spirituality Day in honor of the Double Jubilee.

"Give Me the Grace!" Podcast

Looking for a new podcast?

Every week, a fresh episode of "Give Me the Grace" is published by Salesianum School, in Wilmington, DE! Listen to Father Chris Beretta, OSFS, and Mr. Jonathan Dick, OSFS, as they discuss happenings at Sallies, sports, pop culture, and more with Sallies Student Council President and upperclassmen!

Above are behind the scenes of the recording of “Give Me the Grace!” Father Chris Beretta, OSFS, and Mr. Jonathan Dick, OSFS, working with Salesiunmin students.

Thank you for allowing us to pray for your loved ones.

We appreciate your friendship.

In Loving Memory 2022

Please fill out the form, enter the name of deceased loved one you would like us to remember at our Masses in November. One name per box.

Praying for Florida

As Hurricane Ian is about to make landfall in Florida, the Oblates are praying for all those who will be impacted by this terrible storm. We encourage you to join us in prayer and ask for prayers for the parishes we administer who are in the storm's path: Saint Cecilia in Fort Myers, Jesus the Worker (Jesus Obrero) in Fort Myers, Our Lady of Light in Estero and Saint Ann in Naples.

Please join us in this prayer provided by Father Patrick O'Connor, OSFS, Pastor of Jesus Obrero:

"God of the Universe, at the dawn of creation, your Spirit blew over the waters, making them a source of all holiness. You made the oceans and rivers and everything that dwells in them, and out of your word the wind and the waves were born.

The seasons follow your plan, and the tides rise and fall at your command. In the calm and the storm, you are with us.

On the Sea of Galilee, even as the disciples began to fear, Jesus showed Himself Lord over the waters by rebuking the storms, so that everyone would know that even the wind and the waves obey Him.

Creator God, we pray that You calm the wind and the waves of the approaching hurricane, and spare harm to those in its path. Help those on their way to safety. Open our hearts generously to all who need help in the coming days.

In all things and at all times, help us to remember that even when life seems dark and stormy, You are in the boat with us, guiding us to safety. Amen."

Honoring Father Steve Wetzel, OSFS: Memorial Plaque Dedication

The Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #5 honored the memory of beloved FOP Chaplain, Father Steve Wetzel, OSFS, with a Memorial Plaque Dedication last week.  Father Steve, who passed away in April, served as Chaplain of Michael the Archangel Ministry Program supporting active and retired Philadelphia Police Officers and their families.  His legacy of service will never be forgotten.

Held in the Heroes Ballroom at the FOP Lodge #5, the Plaque Dedication Ceremony was attended by over 200 Philadelphia Police Officers and their families.  From the highest ranking to the newest officers, all gathered to celebrate the man who was so much more than Chaplain to them.  Many consider Father Steve one of their dearest friends. They have countless stories of how much Father Steve meant to them and the deep gratitude they had for all he did for them.

John McNesby, President of the FOP Lodge #5, shared remarks about the impact Father Steve had upon the entire FOP family. McNesby said that he didn’t realize how many people Father Steve had touched until after he died. “People were coming from everywhere to tell me what he meant to them.” That is one reason why having a plaque in Father Steve’s honor was important. “We want him (Father Steve) in our building forever so that we can tell people years from now who Father was and everything he did for us,” McNesby said.

Father Steve’s mom, Caroline (DiPretoro) Wetzel, was joined by her daughters Donna Lebresco and Deborah Wetzel. Also present were Father Steve’s brother Oblates, Fathers Bob Bazzoli, Jim MacNew, and Joe Campellone. 

His ministry as Chaplain of the Michael the Archangel Ministry Program brought great joy to Father Steve.  He felt very connected to the men and women in blue. Father Steve truly journeyed beside them in their service to the City of Philadelphia as he joined them in ride-alongs, held Mass at the end of their shifts, counseled them after shootings, and celebrated their family moments.  His life of faith and ministry led him to his last and special ministry.

Father Steve attended St. Timothy Grade School and graduated from Father Judge High School (Philadelphia, PA).  Following graduation, he joined the Oblates and made his first profession of vows as a brother in 1980.  He began his ministry as an Oblate brother and in 2003 was ordained an Oblate priest.

Prior to establishing the Michael the Archangel Ministry Program, Father Steve served in parishes, schools, and as Chaplain.  He was Chaplain at Sacred Heart Hospital (Allentown, PA), Holy Redeemer Health System's St. Joseph Manor (Philadelphia, PA), and for the Upper Saucon Fire Department (Center Valley, PA) where he was certified as a Level- I Firefighter.

Father Steve ministered as a Deacon at St. Cecilia Parish (Fort Myers, FL), Pastoral Associate at St. Thomas More Parish (Allentown, PA), Parochial Vicar at Our Mother of Consolation Parish (Philadelphia, PA), Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish (Vienna, VA), and Vice Principal at St. Thomas More Parochial School.

Throughout his ministry, he served at St. Joachim Parish (Philadelphia, PA) as Deacon and later as Pastor.  During his time there, Father Steve became involved with the Police-Clergy Program in both the 2nd and 15th Districts of the Philadelphia Police Department, where he served as local President for two years. With the closing of St. Joachim, he was able to refocus his ministry with the Philadelphia Police. In January of 2014, Father Steve helped to establish the Michael the Archangel Ministry Program FOP Lodge #5, serving as full-time Chaplain to 14,000 active and retired Philadelphia Police and their families.

Father Steve is greatly missed by his family, fellow Oblates, the Philadelphia Police Department, friends, the Custodes Pacis community, and the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Sons and Daughters of Italy.  This absence was felt as the ceremony closed with the Philadelphia Police and Fire Pipes and Drums playing “Amazing Grace.”  

The plaque for Fr. Steve reads as follows:

 Rev. Steven P. Wetzel, OSFS March 15, 1958 -April 27, 2022

 Fr. Steve Wetzel, affectionately known as "Fr. Steve" was born and raised in Philadelphia. He was committed to service and was a professed member of the Wilmington-Philadelphia Province of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales for 41 years serving in a variety of service focused roles in Delaware, Florida, and throughout Pennsylvania. In 2014 he found his true calling when Fr. Steve helped create the Michael the Archangel Ministry Program at FOP Lodge#5. He assumed the role of full-time Chaplain to 14,000 active and retired Philadelphia Police Officers and their families.

The mission of the program was to provide multi­ denominational pastoral care, crisis ministry, and spiritual enrichment. In fulfilling this mission Father Steve became more than a Pastor, he became part of our family as in addition to his Ministry he presided over countless Police weddings, baptisms, and funerals. He will be greatly missed but we remember his favorite quote from Padre Pio:

"Pray, Hope, and Don't Worry"

 View Plaque Dedication Ceremony Program Here

Stories Featuring Father Steve and Michael the Archangel Ministry

Beloved chaplain's mass card saved police officer

Police rally for beloved chaplain in the hospital

Police ministry shows ‘behind the badge, there’s a human being,’ says archbishop

Blood drive honors fallen officers while meeting critical need

Beloved saint's legacy lives on through local police, religious order

DeSales Networking Breakfast Featuring Ellen Kolodziej

October 21st ~ 7:37 AM

The Union League at Liberty Hill

Liberty Ballroom

Lafayette Hill, PA 1944 

Ellen Kolodziej, TV Reporter/Media Relations & Public Speaking Consultant

The DeSales Network is proud to welcome Ellen Kolodziej to their Networking Breakfast on October 21, 2022. The event will start at 7:37 am with continental breakfast and networking followed by a presentation by Ellen Kolodziej. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn from Ellen and each other.

Ellen Kolodziej is a TV Reporter/Media Relations and Public Speaking Consultant who has worked at 13 different TV and radio stations in her incredible career. You will recognize her face from FOX 29 and NBC10 and her voice from KYW1060 where she was recently News Anchor.

She is a dear friend to the Oblates as her little brother Father Jack Kolodziej, OSFS, serves as Provincial of the Wilmington-Philadelphia Province.

Ellen is happy to be back in Philadelphia on FOX29! She is passionate about all Philly sports and loved reporting for the “Charlie Manuel” TV show. Other fun shows she has worked on include "Phillies Postgame live with Mike Missanelli and John Clark,” "Inside Golf," and “Philly Pheud” with Missanelli.

In addition to her broadcast career, Ellen delivers media training and public speaking coaching for executives. She also taught Public Speaking at her alma mater, La Salle University for 13 years. Ellen is a Philadelphia native and a product of Nativity BVM School in Port Richmond and John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls’ High School. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Communications from La Salle and a Master's Degree in Journalism from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. She calls Havertown home now and has two beautiful children - Krystyna, a senior at FIT (The Fashion Institute of Technology) in New York, and Jack, a sophomore at Arizona State University.

The Mission of the DeSales Network

To honor the memory of Fr. William Guerin, OSFS, the DeSales Network will offer engagement and social opportunities for spiritual growth for Gospel-minded people in the spirit of St. Francis de Sales to fuel the grace that, in the words of Fr. Guerin, “gets you to heaven."

For more info, email info@oblates.org

Hope in Eternal Life

Last week I was visiting my soon-to-be 99-year-old mother. Of course, like people around the globe, the two of us spent way too many hours watching Queen Elizabeth’s extended funeral in all its pageantry. At one point, my mother turned to me and asked me to contact our local funeral director to begin planning her funeral. I looked at her and said, “I don’t think we can get all those horses, the Beefeaters, and bands here in our little village on the Niagara River.” She responded, “I know, but wouldn’t it be something if we did.”

After laughing together for a few moments, she told me she was serious. Always practical, my mother wanted to ensure she had enough savings to cover the cost of her funeral. I shook my head and did as I was requested.

While that was a light moment in our viewing of the Queen’s funeral, watching it invited both of us, and I assume many others, to reflect on the stark reality that the fate of every human is to leave this world and all we love in it. The always practical Saint Francis de Sales wrote, “The world is only peopled to people heaven.” (Letters to Persons in the World, II 33)

While much was made of Queen Elizabeth’s longevity as Queen and her many accomplishments, her fate, like ours, is to leave all that behind and begin a new life, which our faith promises is more - much more!

Saint Francis de Sales encouraged people to ponder and reflect on life beyond the one we have on earth. He encouraged this not to create fear or anxiety but to stir up hope in eternal life, allowing our confidence in eternal life to assist us in the challenges of this life. In doing so, no matter what our challenges are, we can walk with heads high and hearts full of joy. To quote Francis once again, “We should live in this world as though our spirit were already in heaven.” (The Spirit of Saint Francis de Sales, IV, 6)

Fr. Jack Loughran, OSFS

Provincial

Toledo-Detroit Province

Francis & Me: Loyes Spayd

Loyes Spayd: Daughter of St. Francis de Sales, Retired Religious Educator, Pastoral Minister, and parishioner of Saint John Neumann in Reston, VA

Loyes Spayd

The last parish I worked at before I retired was Our Lady of Good Counsel (OLGC) in Vienna, VA.  I had heard of Saint Francis de Sales but really did not know much about him or Salesian Spirituality.  I served on the OLGC staff for six years and I became immersed in Salesian Spirituality and loved it.  When I retired, I moved to the only other Oblate parish in the state, Saint John Neumann in Reston, VA, and I started formation to become a Daughter of St. Francis de Sales.  I continued my studies in Continuing Formation, and formation/training to become a companion to women who also want to join the Daughters.

Thirty years ago, my first spiritual director was an Oblate priest who spoke of the virtues of Saint Francis.  I have been a Daughter for seven years and I have gradually learned how to try to live the virtues.

I learned the virtue of humility.  I used to think that I could “save the world.”  A colleague and mentor informed me that Jesus had already done that.  I used to tell publishers of religion textbooks the revisions they needed to make.  I would become frustrated with parents who didn’t attend Mass or actively participate in the formation of their children.  I, of course, learned that this was God’s work and I was just his agent!

I learned that not only could I not save the world, but I couldn’t even control my own life.  Saint Francis taught me to be patient with myself, love, and forgive myself.  Salesian Spirituality taught me “to pick myself” up and start again.  Tomorrow was a new day that holds hope and peace. 

When I ministered to children, families, staff, catechumens, and, of course, my own family, I learned that I needed to live the virtues of kindness, patience, gentleness, and above all love. 

When I experienced divorce, parenting three daughters by myself, worrying about finances, changing jobs, and moving, I learned to trust God - the Father who held my hand and walked with me through the strawberry fields of my life.  I learned, with the help of the Holy Spirit, how to dismiss anxiety and pray for the gift of peace.

I learned how to “Live Jesus” in the midst of many faith communities, including two Oblate parishes, and the Daughters of St. Francis de Sales.  Their love, friendship, and teachings helped me to experience peace in my life.

I pray that all of you reading this article will receive this special gift of God’s peace.

The Peace Prayer

Do not look forward in fear to the changes in life; rather, look at them with full hope that as they arise, God, whose very own you are, will lead you safely through all things. And when you cannot stand it, God will carry you in His arms.

Do not fear what may happen tomorrow.  The same understanding Father who cares for you today will care for you tomorrow and every day.

He will either shield you from suffering, or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginings.

- Saint Francis de Sales

Direction of Intention

The Direction of Intention is a special prayer inspired by Saint Francis de Sales.  There are different versions of the Direction of Intention depending on where you hear it prayed. I use the one that is used at Salesianum School:

"My God give me the grace to perform this action with you and through love for you.  In advance, I offer to you all the good that I may do and accept all the difficulty I may meet therein, Amen.”

None of our actions occur in a vacuum; all have an impact on our wider community.  Through a “right intending” of our deeds, God becomes not only the constant companion in our everyday actions but also His plan for our world and our human community becomes more explicitly the end goal of everything in which we are engaged.  Our personal transformation in terms of a closer union with God in prayer and in awareness of God’s presence in each action is joined to the potential of these deeds to achieve a transformation of human society and the creation of a more just and peaceful human community.

I have been in the Oblates for 41 + years doing maintenance work at Salesianum School, DeSales University Facilities Department, and now the Oblate Retirement Center in Childs, MD.  Maintenance tasks can have good and bad associated with them.  This is where the Direction of Intention can come into play.  Over the years, people ask why I do what I do.  My response is that it is my responsibility; it needs to be done and someone must do it.  I have the Direction of Intention printed out and posted on my bulletin board over my office desk to remind me that things can go right or wrong.  For many of our tasks, we have no control.  I cannot determine how much snow will fall, however, I can decide how I want to look at the attitude that I want to have when I plow the snow.  

Salesian Spirituality says that the way we approach our work gives praise specifically to God the Creator.  We are also called to be “co-creators” with God.  So, it's in a real sense, allowing us to realize the Good Mother Mary de Sales Chappuis’ wish that we be “other Christs walking the face of the Earth once again.”  Our work, our labor, and our ministry allow us to do this.  Offering all we do through such a powerful and prayerful means as the Direction of Intention allows all we do to become a sacrament, to change the ordinary to extraordinary.  So powerful is this prayer that every Oblate is instructed with teaching it to all with whom they come into contact.  Over and above our “personal advancement in holiness,” each of our actions also involves us in God’s creative and salvific purpose for humankind and for the universe.

Brother Joseph Schodowski, OSFS

Assistant Superior/Facilities Manager

Oblate Retirement Center, Childs, MD

Francis & Me: Michael Swiger

Michael Swiger, parishioner at St. John Neumann Parish, Reston, VA

Michael Swiger

“Let us think only of living today well” - Saint Francis de Sales

My faith journey took a dramatic change in my life some 30 years ago when I became Catholic.  It was my first experience with the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales and the opportunity to learn through and experience not just the wisdom but the “how to” for living a more meaningful Christian life through the writings of Saint Francis de Sales. 

I was amazed at how Saint Francis’ simple truths and the shared wisdom of living in the present moment became my guidepost to my faith's journey.  I was even more astonished as to how practical the teachings of over 400 years ago are as relevant today as they were then.   

Like many of us, I struggle at times, but I make a conscious effort at improving each day!  As my father told me long ago, “Michael, you are a work in progress!”  So true but I have come to realize that I should learn from my past, not worry about tomorrow, and focus on being the best person I can be each day of my life.  It sounds simple but it’s a challenge.  

I am not perfect, by any stretch of my imagination but then again, who of us is?  My goal is to continue living each day to the best of my ability by beginning each day with a prayer of thanksgiving for my life and the opportunity I have been given for that day, be true to myself, and be the best person I can be.  If I stumble, have the courage to forgive myself, learn from it, and move forward.  At the end of the day, I thank the Lord for the many blessings, friendships, and love I receive every day of my life.

So, my work in progress continues. I know that as I continue to "be who I am and be that well" each and every day, I truly believe I will be closer to living my life as the Lord has asked.   

Meet Brother Dan Wisniewski, OSFS, Director of Oblate Education

A member of the Provincial Council of the Wilmington-Philadelphia Province, Brother Dan Wisniewski, OSFS, Ph.D., has dedicated his ministry to education.

Brother Dan Wisniewski, OSFS

After Brother Dan first professed his vows as a religious brother of the Oblates in 1996, he taught mathematics at Northeast Catholic High School (Philadelphia, PA) and served as the faculty moderator of the Community Service Corps (CSC).  He then went on to serve at DeSales University for over two decades, most recently as Provost and a tenured Associate Professor of Mathematics.

Leveraging this extensive education experience, Brother Dan is currently ministering as Director of Oblate Education for the Wilmington-Philadelphia Province.  In this capacity, he supports the faculty, staff, and administration of educational institutions staffed by or associated with the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. “I hope I will be a resource to cultivate and care for our charism and the dissemination of Salesian Spirituality,” he said.  As an extension of this, Brother Dan will examine how the charism is linked to the mission of the schools.  He will gather best processes and share with those serving in educational settings.  

As this is a newly created role, Brother Dan is spending these first few months meeting with the faculty and administration of the schools to listen and learn.  He wants to understand their mission and how he can be a supportive presence to those communities.  Brother Dan’s new position is another illustration that education remains an essential component of the mission of the Oblates.  “I want to make sure that the Oblates’ presence is felt in the school communities,” he explained.

Supporting internal education is another important aspect of Brother Dan’s role.  He will become a resource and coordinator of personal, academic, and professional development opportunities for his fellow Oblates, from those in formation to men in retirement.  Brother Dan looks forward to working closely with his Oblate confreres. “Ministering as an Oblate to the Oblates is especially rejuvenating for me,” he said.  Brother Dan will also be supporting his fellow Oblates as Superior of the Salesianum Oblate Residence (Wilmington, DE) where 17 Oblates reside.

Prior to being Provost at DeSales University, Brother Dan served as Head of the Division of Sciences & Mathematics and Chair of the Department of Mathematics/Computer Science.  An alumnus of Father Judge High School, Brother Dan earned a Ph.D. in mathematics from Bryn Mawr College, an M.A. in mathematics from Villanova University, an M.A. in Christian Spirituality from The Washington Theological Union, an M.Ed. in Academic Standards & Reform from DeSales University, and a B.S. in mathematics (summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa) from The Catholic University of America.  He has been published in multiple journals and his research interests include number theory, mathematics education, the preparation of future teachers, and a variety of Salesian topics such as friendship and grief.

Brother Dan has previously served on the Provincial Council and was a board member for the National Conference of Major Superiors of Men (CMSM). He currently serves on the Board of Trustees of Salesianum School in Wilmington (DE). Brother Dan looks forward to serving other Oblate-affiliated schools as a board member and in other capacities.  He enjoys visiting his mother who lives in Northeast Philadelphia and spending time with family and friends.  A fan of popular culture, Brother Dan delights in music, movies, and concerts.

 If you would like to contact Brother Dan, you can reach him at dwisniewski@oblates.org.

An Unexpected Visitor

I was shaking hands outside after Mass one Saturday evening when I was pleasantly surprised to see my old friend Reese walking out of our church doors.  He is a 27-year-old gentleman who came from China to study at Father Judge High School.  From there, he graduated from St. Joseph’s University and is currently working at Cooper Hospital doing data analytics.  I met him about two years ago when after Mass, he shared his story and told me he just wanted to be in the company of an Oblate.  Reese is not Catholic, he just wanted the relationship and, hopefully, that Salesian connection.  We became friends and when I told him of my recent transfer to Our Mother of Consolation Parish,  he assured me that he would visit.  Promise kept!

When he visited, he told me that he was offered an exciting new job that would take him to the Barnes Museum, one of his favorite places, but he declined the offer because he just had his Visa renewed through his present employer and felt a sense of duty to them.  Honor, integrity, goodness.  Who cannot appreciate this?  After his visit, and upon my insistence that it was not an imposition (as I was headed that way to see my nephew), I drove him to his apartment.  On the way there, Reese told me about events he was looking forward to and work that interested him.   As we approached his apartment complex, he pointed out a corner where a couple of days ago, a few kids were beating up another kid.  He was horrified that people simply passed by without doing anything.  Then, he told me he shouted at them to stop and they ran away. What a risk! What goodness! 

I admire the gifts and qualities different people present.  I am in awe of what others can do that I cannot imagine doing.  In my life, I have met many very talented and gifted people.  But goodness is the gift I most admire.  Maybe it’s synonymous with character and quality.  Reese is a man of much simplicity and goodness.  So, that night, he was a welcomed, unexpected visitor who reaffirmed my conviction that goodness is essential.

Sister Catherine McAuley, who founded the Mercy Sisters, wrote “Do good today and better tomorrow.”  This dovetails perfectly with Saint Francis de Sales’, “Be who you are and be that well.”   There are a thousand other mantras like this to inspire us to “be the best version of ourselves” as is the writer, Matthew Kelly’s mantra.  They are all needed to help us “do the will of God for the world” (what I believe is Sister Joan Chittister’s mantra), to be faithful to whom God is calling us to be, “the presence of Christ for the world” (OMC tagline of our Mission Statement) or simply put, to “Live Jesus”, V+J, Vive Jesu, the Oblate mantra.  Goodness, living Jesus Christ, is our call. 

It is our imperative, in the pews and in the marketplace, when people are looking and not.  Goodness, character, integrity, presence, relationship, recognizing the beauty and letting it seep within our very core to invigorate us to do likewise.  When bombarded with violence, hatred, disdain, greed, self-interest, or self-promotion, let’s awaken our goodness; that is, the image and likeness of Christ, and share it with others to make the world a bit more kind, gentle, forgiving, and welcoming.  Who are the Reeses in our orbit, those unexpected visitors, who show us what life is supposed to be?

Fr. John J. Fisher, OSFS

Pastor

Our Mother of Consolation Parish

Philadelphia, PA

Mourning the Queen - Secular and Sacred

For the last two weeks, the people of Great Britain, and much of the world, have been mourning the loss of Queen Elizabeth II.  The impressive display of flowers, tributes, and memorials outside Buckingham Palace, churches, neighborhoods, homes, shops, and throughout England has been touching. Millions of people have come to London to honor the Queen and show their loyalty and love.  Even with these large crowds, the lines were quiet, calm, and respectful.  

Mourners outside Buckingham Palace

As I saw the crowds, the shrines, and the prayers being offered over the last few weeks, I was reminded of a medieval pilgrimage.  History tells us that these pilgrimages could be long, overcrowded, and often rowdy, but the travelers were always aware that God was with them.  

One mourner commented that even though the crowds were outdoors and in the streets, the atmosphere was like being in church.  A merchant who set up a tribute in his shop window near the palace said it was his attempt to “transform secular space into sacred space.”

For more than a week, merchants, military, politicians, and ordinary people have been doing this throughout the United Kingdom - transforming the “secular” into the “sacred.” 

Our modern world has created a spiritual-secular divide.  Most people recognize that there is a place for God and religion but usually only for an hour during the weekend and in a designated space.  The rest of our lives are often considered separate from spirituality.

Yet during times of national tragedy or mourning (in the U.S., I think of the aftermath of 9/11), these divisions become blurred.  The ‘‘mix and match” of contemporary spirituality becomes evident.  In England, while “secular spaces” like the gardens outside Buckingham Palace were converted to “sacred space,” people also flocked to the nation’s cathedrals to light candles and say prayers.  

Christianity has always rejected the artificial separation between the secular and the sacred.  Our faith should be all-encompassing and influence every dimension of our lives:  at home, at work, in our communities, and in our churches.  The Kingdom of God permeates our whole world. 

Saint Francis de Sales understood this and taught this throughout his life.  Salesian Spirituality reminds us that everything is sacred and everyone is called to the devout life. 

The Spiritual Directory that he gave to the Visitation Sisters (and handed down to the Oblates) is a reminder that all of our actions and activities are ways to make the everyday holy and to transform the secular into the sacred.  In this way, the Salesian way of life echoes the teaching of Saint Paul, 

“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).”

Rev. Jack Kolodziej, OSFS

Provincial

Wilmington-Philadelphia Providence

Francis & Me: Margaret E. Ayala

Margaret E. Ayala, MFA, Assistant Professor, Director of First Year Writing at DeSales University

Margaret E. Ayala, MFA

Having been a member of the DeSales University community my entire adult life—first as a student, then an employee, and now as faculty—I’ve accumulated my fair share of Salesian paraphernalia. Every morning while I wait for my coffee to brew, I blearily blink at one such piece of paraphernalia hanging on my kitchen bulletin board—a bookmark with a quote from Saint Francis de Sales:

“Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instead set about remedying them—every day begin the task anew.”

I’ve found myself thinking about these words often, especially the first part of the passage: “Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself.” I will be the first to admit that when trying something new, I want to fully understand it and instantly be great at it. 

I asked my students at the beginning of the semester what they are great at and if they were immediately great at these things the first time they tried them. I was answered with heads shaking the obvious “no.” All skills and talents take practice and patience to master, and that was the point of my question. It was then that I realized I needed to reflect on my answer to that question—I needed to find patience with myself as I practiced to become better at navigating teaching in a post-pandemic environment as it continues to evolve and it is ever clear that our once “normal” will forever be part of the past.

I have found more patience with myself by remembering that despite the changes, we are all trying to figure this out together and don’t always have the right answers. We are all looking to each other for guidance when we are trying to master newness in every facet of our lives and perhaps forgetting to be patient with ourselves all the while.

I still blearily blink at Saint Francis’s words every morning while I wait for my coffee to brew, but now my focus has shifted to the second part of the passage, “Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections…” 

Let us remember to practice that all-important patience with ourselves and others. Courage exists in all of us and we can use that courage to embrace and challenge our imperfections, and to remember to begin each day and task anew.

God's Patience

Waiting is not something we Americans do well! The long lines at an airport security checkpoint are an excellent example. If the person before us is slow getting laptops prepared, shoes removed, emptying pockets, or packing their container for the x-ray inspection, he can send the people waiting behind into a tailspin. This is especially true if the next person in line is running late. If you relate to this description, waiting patiently is not one of your strong points!

Yet, waiting in long lines for water, food, or vaccines is fast becoming a staple of American life in many communities.  Indeed, people need to learn again just how to be patient with each other, especially in difficult waiting situations. Sister Rita, a seventh-grade teacher, insisted patience is about attitude, “Patience is not simply the ability to wait, but how we behave while we wait.”

Saint Francis de Sales gently reminds us we must be patient with everyone, but most especially with ourselves.  De Sales asks us to consider how often in our lives we have made Jesus wait for us.

De Sales’ references the long wait Jesus experiences before we stop a bad habit and spend the time replacing it with some good action. For instance, Jesus waits to see a prayer life begin, our showing of more gratitude for good things received, or thinking of others before fulfilling our own needs.

It can also be the day we realize that our gifts are not meant to be kept hidden, but rather shared. And when we do, we make the lives around us better, happier, or just plain easier.  Meanwhile, God waits patiently for these things to happen, because when they do, God’s kingdom grows with them.

Why does God show us so much patience?  Because God knows, Jesus and the Holy Spirit are quietly working 24-7, nudging us to grow and change. And God loves us too much to get discouraged and walk away.  He simply awaits patiently for the Spirit and his son to do their work.

While God waits, our spiritual side gradually awakens, revealing the intended image God has in mind for each of us. And God lingers hopefully for everyone to, sooner or later, choose and become that imagined person.

Jesus gazes at the divine spark glistening within our sacred self, signaling that we belong to the Lord, and that we qualify to choose his goodness as our own. He reminds us that we can still become the person God created us to become.  Jesus wants us to embrace this likeness because God already has destined us for his divine household.

What God desires for every creation is that we catch-up to God’s expectations. More important is Jesus’ wish that we are so moved by his father’s expectations that we make them happen.  In this way, God’s grace will help us overcome our hurdles and stubborn moments.

After considering the depth of God’s faith and trust, we promise not to give up on ourselves. Difficult as that may be, we remember that God, our Father, loves us the same whether we make progress today, or fall a few feet behind.  God always sees the whole picture and eagerly awaits the completed portrait.

Therefore, it’s good to keep moving forward with hope, because Jesus accompanies us and stays at our side cheering!

It is never too late to become who we might have been. 

Father Richard DeLillio, OSFS

For more reflections by Father DeLillio, visit his webpage Live Well Today

The Foundation of Formation

Deacon Joe Katarsky, OSFS

Last week this newsletter published a few photos of Deacon Joe Katarsky, OSFS, beginning his temporary ministerial experience with the Jesuits in Alaska. Joe is spending a year as a transitional deacon preparing for ordination as an Oblate priest. Following a few months in Alaska, Joe will finish his diaconate placement at Our Lady of Good Counsel, an Oblate parish in Vienna, VA.

The transitional diaconate provides the deacon with a well-rounded ministerial background in preparation for his ministry as a priest. The year follows other “on-the-job” training experiences which occur during the formation of an Oblate.

I learned a lot during my ministerial experiences in formation. Following a few years working at Camp de Sales in Michigan, I branched out, looking more for challenging experiences in ministry.

I began with a summer in an impoverished section of South Philadelphia. It was violent, dirty, and foreign to me, but I met some great people of faith and had my first immersive experience with an African American Catholic Parish. The irony was the priests at the parish were from a Dutch community working in what they considered mission territory.

Following Philly, there was a summer in Eastern Kentucky ministering in rural hollers that were the actual homes of the Hatfield and McCoys, a summer as a student chaplain in a large hospital in Toronto, and a summer at an Oblate parish in the lake country of Michigan. All of these preceded my year-long experience as a deacon in an impoverished parish in Detroit. As I approached my ordination as a priest, I felt well prepared with all these experiences under my belt.

If anything, these varied experiences taught me the truth of the Salesian principle that the human heart has a yearning for God, and God yearns to reside in the human heart. No matter how different our lives are, all people seek goodness, peace, and love. Saint Francis wrote volumes on this search.

I hope Joe’s experiences this year provide him with a healthy foundation as a minister. More importantly, I hope Joe gains an appreciation for the goodness of people and how invaluable every person is, despite how unique or different they may be. In a world seemingly torn apart by violence, war, acrimony, and indifference, Salesian optimism and gentleness are indispensable virtues for unity and healing.

Fr. Jack Loughran, OSFS

Provincial

Toledo-Detroit Province