Dear Friends,
As we move from the joyous Easter season into Ordinary Time, so does the University, with the excitement of Commencement moving into the quietness of summer. This is a time for planning, rest and preparation for a new group of students who will be arriving in August.
This past semester has been anything but ordinary. In January, Father Bob Beloin, the Chaplain of STM, was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He has undergone treatment and will continue to do so, which has limited his ability to be physically present at STM. He has certainly been in the hearts and minds of the STM community and holds all of us in his prayers, as we do for him. We hope that with rest and additional treatment, he will be able to resume his ministry at STM in the near future.
Over the years, and especially the last two years as he planned for his retirement, Fr. Bob has worked to make STM a place that will flourish. We have benefitted from his vision and hard work. The articles in this issue are a further testament to his influence on STM’s mission. Allan Esteron, the newest Assistant Chaplain, talks about the development of STM's social justice programming and Catherine Oona Ring, a nursing student, reflects on her Alternative Spring Break trip to Nicaragua. Fossils and icons may seem like unlikely candidates for commonality, but they both are windows into wonder and the glory of God. We also hope you enjoy the newest addition to the STM Magazine, “Donor Spotlight,” featuring STM alum and Board Member, Will Edwards '02. I hope reading Will's story inspires you.
This October, we will be celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the Chapel. The vision of Father Riggs has allowed for thousands of students, faculty, staff and friends to pray together as part of the Universal Church. Some of the most poignant moments have been celebrated in
the Chapel — infant and adult baptisms, joyous weddings, fond farewells, Mass of the Holy Spirit, prayers for the academic year and the ongoing cycle of the Paschal Mystery celebrating the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Mark your calendars and save the dates of October 6th and 7th for a grand celebration.
As we move into the summer, take time to enjoy the longer days. Consider how you might share in the mission of STM, celebrating the legacy Fr. Bob has provided. May you celebrate the end of the Easter season with joy and continue to celebrate the simple joys of ordinary life.
Sr. Jenn Schaaf, O.P., M.A.
Assistant Chaplain
