Many blessings to you and your family from the Monastic Community!

During this blessed Christmas Season may the new born savior fill you with many blessings

and give you his abundant peace. We want to thank you for your gifts, your prayers,

and your presence throughout the year at Mount Michael Benedictine.

Volume 56, Issue 14 Winter 2011

Merry Christmas!

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a peace and quiet associated with the Marian shrine, in addition to a beautiful view of the Elkhorn valley below. Having worked on the shrine and having a devotion to Mary, Tom Roman was naturally curious to learn if the shrine still existed. I told him that indeed, the Marian shrine very much still existed and is still a treasured, if somewhat unknown, feature of the campus. We promised to send him some photos of the shrine. Good intentions sometimes get lost in the swirl of responsibilities. Some days ago, I received a letter from Tom. He asked again about the shrine and wondered if there are any photos

of the shrine. In his letter, he also encouraged us to remind the students of the advantages to interceding with Mary in prayer. So I sent a letter back to Tom. This time I promised Tom I would not forget his requests. So the abbot’s letter in this issue of the Michaeleen is a thank-you to all the students who helped make the Marian shrine the special place it was and remains to this day. And of course, a reminder to not forget the value of turning to Christ’s Mother in prayer.

…there is a peace and quiet associated

with the Marian

shrine…

A couple of years ago this fall, we spent time in one of the suburbs of Minneapolis-St. Paul to meet with alumni in the area. Among the alumni joining us for our get-together were Thomas Roman and his wife Stella. Tom was a student at St. John Seminary (the predecessor of Mount Michael Benedictine) from 1956 through 1960. While sharing stories of his time at St. John’s, Tom asked whether the Marian shrine was still standing. The short answer is yes, and very much so. The Marian shrine is located just to the north and to the west of the school building, about halfway down the bluff. At the end of the track north of the school, there is a path that leads down the bluff to the Marian shrine. Few casual visitors see the shrine. You have to know where the path begins. It takes some effort to reach it. According to Br. Mel Tichota, who is our resident historian for that era, the Marian shrine was built about 1960. Some enterprising students led by Michael Guevara went to a good deal of effort to build the shrine, because it has survived in wonderful condition for fifty years. Over the years, a variety of classes worked around the shrine or helped maintain the pathway leading to it. In the early 1980s, Fr. Thomas Allen used to mow the entire hill on foot with a push mower. Given Fr. Thomas’s advanced age, it was a remarkable feat of stamina. Fr. Thomas went through several mowers keeping the grass and the weeds cut down on the hillside, much to the chagrin of Fr. Nathanael Foshage who was business manager at the time. Due to its relatively isolated location, the Marian shrine has always proved a popular spot with students who have a desire to get away from the hustle and bustle of school or the watchful eyes of a prefect or dean. There is ~ Rt. Rev. Michael Liebl, O.S.B.

Letter from the Abbot

Christmas & New Year’s Mass Schedule Christmas Eve Mass  •  December 24th - 8:00 p.m.

Christmas Day Mass  •  December 25th - 11:00 a.m.New Year’s Day Mass  •  January 1st - 9:30 a.m.

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mass Information If you find that your pastor is unable to conveniently take care of Masses you wish to have celebrated for your particular intentions, Mount Michael Abbey welcomes the requests for such intentions. We will see to it that the Masses are celebrated as promptly as possible. The offering you make should correspond with that suggested by the diocese in which you reside. Your pastor will be able to inform you of what the stipend of a particular diocese may be. Mass Intentions $10.00

Please address such requests to: Mass Intentions

Development Office Mount Michael Benedictine Abbey

22520 Mount Michael Road Elkhorn, NE 68022

memorial & tribute Information

Often inquiries are made about our memorials and tributes for relatives and friends, living or deceased. At Mount Michael one can enroll families or friends in our memorial and tribute foundation. This consists of daily remembrance at the Eucharist and the Divine Office by the monks of Mount Michael Abbey. Upon enrollment, we will notify the family with a card. The suggested offering for this memorial enrollment is: INDIVIDUAL One Year $50 Five Years $100 Lifetime $250 FAMILY One Year $100 Five Years $200 Lifetime $500

births Grant Lawrence, September 13th, 2011

8 lbs. 5 oz., 23 inches long Andy (’01) and Liz Worthington

marriages Marc (’06) and Jessica Jergovic

Married August 27th, 2011

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Please send announcements to Kari Herbst: kherbst@mountmichael.org

DeathsWilliam Goralski Grandfather of Jacob Eyth (’14)

Robert Jergovic Father of Michael Jergovic (’01) David Jergovic (’03) Marc Jergovic (’06)

Bob Long Friend of Mount Michael

Ruth Rada Aunt of Sophomores Cooper and Davis Wilson

Robert J. Sylvester Father of Patrick Sylvester (’83) Daniel Sylvester (’84) Donald Sylvester (’96) Beth Lafave, Daughter Grandfather of Nick Lafave (’11)

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…Sharing the good news…

A special “Thank you!” to the Booster Club, for donating new CAD computers and tables, new and renovated weight room and wrestling equipment, and for providing funding for our drama program. We had record attendance for our Open House for prospective students on November 20th, a 35% increase from last year. Attendance for Camp Mount Michael, our most important source of students, was up 38% from last year, which bodes well for future incoming freshman classes. Thanks again to all who provided feedback on Dr. Peters’ performance. The summary is “it’s early, but I like what I see so far.” Dr. Peters’ strengths mentioned most often are his ability to build trusting relationships, to demonstrate the Mount Michael Benedictine mission in his conduct, his communication skills and his professionalism. Parents asked for more opportunities to interact with Dr. Peters and for Dr. Peters to build stronger connections with the students. I’ll be working with Dr. Peters on plans to fill these gaps. Please keep the feedback coming, we need to hear from you to continue to make Mount Michael Benedictine an even better experience and stronger community. We are most grateful for the dedication of our employees and the generosity of our many volunteers and benefactors. We are also sincerely appreciative of the guidance from the School Board and monastic community, and for the input from parents, alumni and friends. With your support, we will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do, as we live our mission of spirituality, scholarship, and the formation of Christian Community.

According to Boarding School Review (www.boardingschoolreview.com), Mount Michael Benedictine ranks #1 in the country for all-boys boarding schools in two key categories—Affordability and ACT/SAT scores. A result of hard work done well, and from being supported generously with much love and plentiful prayer. I share this with you not to be boastful, but rather to remind us to be thankful for what we have, and that you might help share this good news with others to make them aware of the opportunity Mount Michael Benedictine offers. A Mount Michael Benedictine education is a commitment to develop the whole person, not just the mind as calculator. For example, Father Gregorio has done a terrific job with campus ministry, striving to instill Benedictine values in our community. And we appreciate having enthusiastic coaches and program leaders who have led our teams to successes this fall, such as State Cross-Country runner-up, and finishing in first place in Class B and second place in all classes at the UNL Math Day Competition, and who led our teams through the tough lessons of life taught by overcoming adversity and doing your best in spite of the results on the scoreboard. We have twenty Mount Michael Benedictine students named as 2011 AP Scholars by the College Board. We also have three Knights who received National Merit recognition. The financial operating forecast for the year is ahead of budget. And thanks to the generosity of many, the capital campaign has secured gifts to cover the $2 million endowment and to begin the Water Treatment Project.

Letter from the PreSIDeNt

~ Mr. Bob Goldsmith

“That in all things God may be glorified.” Rule of St. Benedict (1 PeteR 4:11)

5

The design and craftsmanship

The design for Mount Michael Benedictine Abbey’s caskets was created by Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B. (1921-2007). During his monastic life, Bro. Andrew’s main work was that of abbey carpenter. Many of the desks, tables and bookcases around the Abbey and School are testaments to his careful and meticulous work. As a side project Bro. Andrew built caskets for the monastic community. Many of our deceased monks are buried in the beautiful hand-made wooden caskets crafted by Bro. Andrew. Bro. Andrew was laid to rest in our Abbey Cemetery in a casket he had set aside as his own.

Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B.

If there are artisans in the monastery, let them practice their crafts with all humility, provided the Abbot has given permission. But if any one of them becomes conceited over his skill in his craft, because he seems to be conferring a benefit of the Monastery, let him be taken from his craft and no longer exercise it unless, after he has humbled himself, the Abbot again gives him permission.

from the Rule of St. Benedict Chapter 57

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

You are Invited! The monks of Mount Michael Abbey ask that you please join us.

Sunday, October 16th from 1 - 4p.m. on the 1st floor of the Abbey View the beautifully handcrafted caskets that will now be available for purchase by the public.

For more information, contact Father John Hagemann: jhagemann@mountmichael.org

The design and craftsmanship

The design for Mount Michael Benedictine Abbey’s caskets was created by Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B. (1921-2007). During his monastic life, Bro. Andrew’s main work was that of abbey carpenter. Many of the desks, tables and bookcases around the Abbey and School are testaments to his careful and meticulous work. As a side project Bro. Andrew built caskets for the monastic community. Many of our deceased monks are buried in the beautiful hand-made wooden caskets crafted by Bro. Andrew. Bro. Andrew was laid to rest in our Abbey Cemetery in a casket he had set aside as his own.

Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B.

If there are artisans in the monastery, let them practice their crafts with all humility, provided the Abbot has given permission. But if any one of them becomes conceited over his skill in his craft, because he seems to be conferring a benefit of the Monastery, let him be taken from his craft and no longer exercise it unless, after he has humbled himself, the Abbot again gives him permission.

from the Rule of St. Benedict Chapter 57

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

You are Invited! The monks of Mount Michael Abbey ask that you please join us.

Sunday, October 16th from 1 - 4p.m. on the 1st floor of the Abbey View the beautifully handcrafted caskets that will now be available for purchase by the public.

For more information, contact Father John Hagemann: jhagemann@mountmichael.org

Simple, dignified pine caskets

The design and craftsmanship

The design for Mount Michael Benedictine Abbey’s coffins was created by Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B. (1921-2007). During his monastic life, Bro. Andrew’s main work was that of abbey carpenter. Many of the desks, tables and bookcases around the Abbey and School are testaments to his careful and meticulous work. As a side project Bro. Andrew built coffins for the monastic community. Many of our deceased monks are buried in the beautiful hand-made wooden coffins crafted by Bro. Andrew. Bro. Andrew was laid to rest in our Abbey Cemetery in a coffin he had set aside as his own.

Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B.

If there are artisans in the monastery, let them practice their crafts with all humility, provided the Abbot has given permission. But if any one of them becomes conceited over his skill in his craft, because he seems to be conferring a benefit of the Monastery, let him be taken from his craft and no longer exercise it unless, after he has humbled himself, the Abbot again gives him permission.

from the Rule of St. Benedict Chapter 57

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

Simple, dignified pine caskets

The design and craftsmanship

The design for Mount Michael Benedictine Abbey’s coffins was created by Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B. (1921-2007). During his monastic life, Bro. Andrew’s main work was that of abbey carpenter. Many of the desks, tables and bookcases around the Abbey and School are testaments to his careful and meticulous work. As a side project Bro. Andrew built coffins for the monastic community. Many of our deceased monks are buried in the beautiful hand-made wooden coffins crafted by Bro. Andrew. Bro. Andrew was laid to rest in our Abbey Cemetery in a coffin he had set aside as his own.

Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B.

If there are artisans in the monastery, let them practice their crafts with all humility, provided the Abbot has given permission. But if any one of them becomes conceited over his skill in his craft, because he seems to be conferring a benefit of the Monastery, let him be taken from his craft and no longer exercise it unless, after he has humbled himself, the Abbot again gives him permission.

from the Rule of St. Benedict Chapter 57

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

Simple, dignified pine caskets

The design and craftsmanship

The design for Mount Michael Benedictine Abbey’s coffins was created by Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B. (1921-2007). During his monastic life, Bro. Andrew’s main work was that of abbey carpenter. Many of the desks, tables and bookcases around the Abbey and School are testaments to his careful and meticulous work. As a side project Bro. Andrew built coffins for the monastic community. Many of our deceased monks are buried in the beautiful hand-made wooden coffins crafted by Bro. Andrew. Bro. Andrew was laid to rest in our Abbey Cemetery in a coffin he had set aside as his own.

Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B.

If there are artisans in the monastery, let them practice their crafts with all humility, provided the Abbot has given permission. But if any one of them becomes conceited over his skill in his craft, because he seems to be conferring a benefit of the Monastery, let him be taken from his craft and no longer exercise it unless, after he has humbled himself, the Abbot again gives him permission.

from the Rule of St. Benedict Chapter 57

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

Simple, dignified pine caskets

The design and craftsmanship

The design for Mount Michael Benedictine Abbey’s coffins was created by Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B. (1921-2007). During his monastic life, Bro. Andrew’s main work was that of abbey carpenter. Many of the desks, tables and bookcases around the Abbey and School are testaments to his careful and meticulous work. As a side project Bro. Andrew built coffins for the monastic community. Many of our deceased monks are buried in the beautiful hand-made wooden coffins crafted by Bro. Andrew. Bro. Andrew was laid to rest in our Abbey Cemetery in a coffin he had set aside as his own.

Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B.

If there are artisans in the monastery, let them practice their crafts with all humility, provided the Abbot has given permission. But if any one of them becomes conceited over his skill in his craft, because he seems to be conferring a benefit of the Monastery, let him be taken from his craft and no longer exercise it unless, after he has humbled himself, the Abbot again gives him permission.

from the Rule of St. Benedict Chapter 57

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

Simple, dignified pine caskets

The design and craftsmanship

The design for Mount Michael Benedictine Abbey’s coffins was created by Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B. (1921-2007). During his monastic life, Bro. Andrew’s main work was that of abbey carpenter. Many of the desks, tables and bookcases around the Abbey and School are testaments to his careful and meticulous work. As a side project Bro. Andrew built coffins for the monastic community. Many of our deceased monks are buried in the beautiful hand-made wooden coffins crafted by Bro. Andrew. Bro. Andrew was laid to rest in our Abbey Cemetery in a coffin he had set aside as his own.

Bro. Andrew Sorenson, O.S.B.

If there are artisans in the monastery, let them practice their crafts with all humility, provided the Abbot has given permission. But if any one of them becomes conceited over his skill in his craft, because he seems to be conferring a benefit of the Monastery, let him be taken from his craft and no longer exercise it unless, after he has humbled himself, the Abbot again gives him permission.

from the Rule of St. Benedict Chapter 57

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

HANDCRAFTED PINE CASKETS

To Purchase, Contact Father John at: hagemann_john@hotmail.com1. The rope handled casket – $1,895 2. The wooden handled casket – $1,495 3. The very plain pine box – unfinished – $895

6

How important are family meals? In looking at twenty years of data on National Merit scholars the National Merit Scholarship Corporation found that the only thing that all past National Merit recipients had in common was this: these students came from families that ate together three nights a week. Without exception, National Merit scholarship winners grew up sharing dinner time with their families. Another one of our Benedictine Values is hospitality. When we invite guests into our homes for meals, parties or get-togethers hospitality becomes very important. The Mass is a lot like that. The fact that Jesus was eating His last supper with His friends, thus establishing the Mass, the liturgy, as the focal point to our faith, is monumental. A simple meal is central to our faith. Family attendance at midnight Mass or a specific Mass at Christmas is another example of a traditional celebration. It takes time to plan; you need to arrive on time and then share in the meal together as a community. Meals lead to memories. They are memorial. In many respects it is how we can meet and really get to know people. It is a significant form of hospitality. Good meals take time to prepare and plan. It is not ironic that Jesus emphasized the meal. That is why He said to do this in His memory when He broke the bread and blessed the wine. He became the meal. He became central to all. As you celebrate the Advent season and make way for the birth of the Christ child, keep in mind those family members or friends who are no longer here. Enjoy those holiday gatherings, celebrations and meals and remember those who have gone before us. Remember those who used to share those meals with us. Toast them and your memories of them. They are there, still with us in our hearts and souls, as we celebrate. Keep them, and our Lord, close. God bless, Merry Christmas.

~ Dr. David J. Peters, Ed.D.

…a simple meal is

central to our faith…

The holidays are a great time for people to celebrate. Starting with Thanksgiving and going through the New Year we are generally invited by others, or we invite them, to get together. Christmas is a big time for family, work and neighborhood celebrations. Food is usually involved somehow with these parties and gatherings. Food plays an important role. Meals are, in and of themselves, social events. Planning major meals, like at Thanksgiving and Christmas, takes effort and time. Family traditions with the menu constitute a form of practice, custom and ritual. We all want our aunt’s cookies or grandmother’s special gravy. Even when people pass on and are gone, the cherished recipes may continue through the next generations. We get together and enjoy the food because it makes us remember them. Meals can be memorial. Meals are important at a place like Mount Michael Benedictine School. We offer three meals a day to our young men. Besides personnel costs, the most expensive item in our budget is food! It costs hundreds of thousands to feed our young men over the course of a year. Respect at mealtime is important. Proper table manners and good conversation are vital. Our young men eat in a dining room as a community. They do not go through our kitchen line and retire to their room in isolation. It is important for them, and for us, to have this shared time together. It is community, which is an important Benedictine value, and it is like family. Our boys share this time, while eating, together as brothers in community as if in a family. Sometimes hectic and varied schedules keep families from having meal times together. A hurried run-through at Burger King, McDonald’s or Wendy’s, and then eating in the car, may constitute a family meal. Time and schedules can conspire against having this family time together.

from the PrINCIPAL’S DeSK

For the latest news about Mount Michael Benedictine, visit our website at: www.mountmichael.com

7

The mission and support statement for the Mount Michael Booster Club trusts in following the charism of the gospels and the Rule of Saint Benedict. The Mount Michael Booster Club promotes Mount Michael Benedictine School’s extracurricular activities, awareness of the school, sportsmanship, and Christian values. The Booster Club supports many activities and Projects: Sports Broadcasts, Event Programs, Youth Basketball, Performing Arts Equipment, Supplements to Activities Budgets, Sponsoring Speakers, Facilities Renovations and Equipment, Robotics, Youth Football Camp and much more. Most recently, the Mount Michael Booster Club provided team meals following some of the football games. They have donated $2,500 to support the Mount Michael Athletic program, along with another $6,300 for new equipment and repairs for the school weight room and wrestling program. They have donated $5,600 for drafting tables and computers, as well as sponsored a luncheon for the Silver Knights Club. The Club provides two $1,000 scholarships on an annual basis. Along with their support, the Booster Club also has many aspiring goals, some of which involve the development of closer relationships with the Alumni Association, along with strongly encouraging the attendance of the January 14th banner game and ceremony following. The Club plans to heavily attend and participate in the annual D.J. Sokol Alumni Golf Tournament/Fundraiser each year. Membership in the Mount Michael Booster Club is still open. It is due to our current members that we are able to attain our annual goals of providing support to the students and specific areas of Mount Michael Benedictine High School.

President: Jerry Rauterkus Vice President: Don Wilson

Treasurer: Jim Suing Secretary: Shelia Mikulicz

booster Club Wish List! • Baseball Pitching Screen - $225 • Rubberized Decking for High Jump - $1,000 • Air Conditioning for Weight Room - $1,000 • Wrestling Mat - $9,000 • Baseball Bleachers - $20,000

moUNt mIChAeL booSter CLUb

Abbot Raphael enjoys the sunshine and hamburgers at a Booster Club tailgating party!

Here’s how you can become a member of the Mount Michael Booster Club!

www.mountmichael.com> MM Resources > Parents > Booster Club > Membership Page

mount michael Cross Country team takes 2nd Place in State!

Pictured at left, Tommy Feichtinger leads Mount Michael, running in the Class B State Tournament.

8

— First Honors —Martin AndersonTyler BoldenJared BourekLukas BuehlerJohn ByrneNicholas CairneyNeal ColaricMichael CollinsMatt DentonHarrison EngelTommy FeichtingerJun Haeng HoTea Hyun HwangJoe ImTaylor KorenskySean KrugerEvan MurrayKeenan ReillySonga RugangaziJoe SobczykMichael SojkaJoe StellatoGeorge TownsendNathan Van HauteTom WalterRichard Woods

— Second Honors —Sean AndersonTrevor AndersonJoseph BastianDavid DickeyMichael DuceAlex GassJacob KenneyDan KimNico MarascoNed McNallyJacob PefferIan SheetsDan SjostedtChris ThomasIan Thomas

— First Honors —Michael BudlerJohn ChoiGabe CohenPeter DeWaldVincent HarveyHunter HottovyYoonho KimBenet KinghornJoe KucirekPaul KujawaTommy MaliszewskiConnor MoynihanYun Sik OhJi Hoon ParkGrant RammJoshua RauterkusJacob ReckerRandy SpeerJimmy SteierAlvin Wang

— Second Honors —Joshua BloomquistJT CroninTony GaoCory KeeganMatt LingoMark LoeffelholzBen PapeJoshua PolickyNick ScheerWill WatsonDavid Wooten

DeAN’S LISt – first Quarter 2011-2012

SenIoRS

SoPHoMoReS

JUnIoRS

FReSHMen

— First Honors —Nick BeckmanMatt BohnhoffCollin DonahueCameron EngelWill ErnstRowan GruberAlex HynesCharlie JarosikEun Woo JeeKevin JewellAndrew JohannesThomas KalilMoon Sup KimJustin LytleJohn MikuliczMatthew OkaleboWill SleddensJackson TaylorScott TownsendGriffin Willer

— Second Honors —John BeckmanElijah BuckholdAndrew CarpenterSpencer ConnorsJarrett CrnkovichRyan DegenerJacob EythJared JamrogDaniel PavlikAustin RamaekersKyle SilkeBlade Tomich-BattenDavis WilsoPeter Xu

— First Honors —Joshua AdamsIan AlfieriJonathan AlvineRyan AndersonJacob BatenhorstJacob BraggCameron BretsenDavid ChoiJonathan CollinsMarcus CroninAugustin deMayoAndrew ErnstZachary FrevertChase GoddardJohn GutsmiedlHarrison HohmanAlex HotovyOliver JarosikJin Seo KimLogan LarsonConor LuffJared MikulsAndrew PaceYoung Joon ParkZachrey StarmanEric SullivanStefano TarantoloAnthony TaylorNathan ThomasReed TiwaldLucas TuckerAndrew WhitakerThomas Wooten

— Second Honors —Preston BlaineBen BorshThomas FarhartA.J. GrovasSam HeimermanLogan KalkowskiAshton LegenzaZachary McBrideJacob MumbyMichael SteierAdam Terasinski

FIRST HonoRS1) Minimum GPA of 3.52) Satisfactory Personal Conduct

SeCond HonoRS1) Minimum GPA of 3.02) Satisfactory Personal Conduct

9

SChooL ADmISSIoNS and ANNoUNCemeNtS

admissions@mountmichael.org

UPComINg eNtrANCe &

PrACtICe exAmS!

Entrance Exam/ Scholarship Testing

Saturday, January 14, 2012 9:00 a.m.

Practice ExamsSaturday, December 3, 2011 &

Saturday, January 21, 2012 Both at 9:00 a.m.

Christmas BreakDismissal:

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Classes Resume: Thursday, January 5, 2012

the names/information of prospective 6th-8th graders that are well-rounded, academically oriented young men who you think might thrive in Mount Michael’s top level academic, extracurricular and athletic programs. We want to make sure that Mount Michael continues its tradition of excellence. If you have any names/information for prospective students, please feel free to submit them by phone at 402-253-0946 or email at ecrawford@mountmichael.org.

~ Eric Crawford ’00, Director of Admissions “…the future continues to look bright…”

Over the past several years, Mount Michael has continued to expand and get closer to its target enrollment of 240 students. The 2011-12 school year began with Mount Michael having its largest student body ever of 223 students. The future continues to look bright with the 2011-12 recruiting season going very well. This past fall, Mount Michael had a record number of over 100 students attend its annual open house, as well as over 80 boys attend its “All Knighter” Lock-In event. In addition to these events, over seventy 7th and 8th graders have recently come out to spend a shadow day on campus. Even with a large number of students looking at Mount Michael, we would still appreciate

Benedictine ValuesService

CommunityHospitality

ModerationIntegrity

10

of color who come from families that make an average of $25,000 per year. Students attend twice-weekly sessions after school during the course of their junior and senior years. My role within College Possible is a junior coach; I work with high school juniors, building the idea that college is an expectation, not an aspiration, and facilitating ACT test-prep, learning about the college application process and exploring college options. In their senior year, the curriculum shifts from test-prep to applying for admission, financial aid and scholarships. College Possible coaches continue to support our students throughout college, giving our students every benefit we can to empower them to success. Over the last ten years, 98% of our students have earned college admission, and of those, 80% have earned a college degree or are currently enrolled in college! College Possible has done awesome things for low-income youth in the Twin Cities and Milwaukee; Omaha is the third city in which College Possible operates, and we are very excited to make a difference in this community. In our first year, we will be serving 60 students in two local public schools, and we are hoping to serve in six high schools next year, with plans for further expansion. I’m excited to be making a difference in the lives of these students. Many never considered going to college prior to enrolling in College Possible, and now they are on a path to success. Just like at Mount Michael, the most common question posed to a College Possible Senior isn’t if he or she is going to college, but where; our students believe in themselves, and know that they are going places!

~ Kyle Svingen (’07)

ALUmNI NeWS

Going Places

…our students

believe in themselves,

and know that they are going places…

Looking back, there are so many things that I loved about my four years at Mount Michael— the high academic standards demanded by the teachers, the effort and sportsmanship expected by the coaches, and the support and brotherhood shared among the students. One of the aspects I took for granted was the implicit expectation that every student was going places. The question in the spring of Senior year was not if one was going to college, but where one would enroll in the fall. “I’m going to UNL to study Engineering” or “I’m going to St. Thomas to pursue a degree in Philosophy” or “I’m going to be a cadet at West Point.” I went to a small liberal arts school in Northfield, Minnesota called St. Olaf College, where I majored in Physics and Religion while participating in numerous music ensembles and engaging in all the richness of campus life. Like my four years at the Mount, my time at St. Olaf prepared me to be successful, both personally and professionally. Perhaps the most valuable gift from the values-based education I received at Mount Michael and St. Olaf was a deeper understanding of my place in the world. Conversations with monks, teachers, professors and peers helped me shape a world view that led me to understand the privilege I have been given. Both of my parents went to college and were able to send me to the best college-prep high school in the state, which empowered me to study at a leading liberal arts college. This privilege is not anything to be ashamed of; instead, it can be used as a tool for the greater good. After graduating in May of 2011, I signed up for an AmeriCorps service year with a nonprofit called College Possible right here in Omaha. AmeriCorps is a federally-funded national service organization; it’s similar to the Peace Corps, but members serve within the United States. College Possible is a nonprofit formed ten years ago in Minnesota’s Twin Cities with the mission to help low-income students earn their college degrees. Upper-income students are more than ten times more likely to earn a college degree by the age of 24, compared to their low-income peers; this is a disparity that only contributes to the cycle of poverty. College Possible is making college admission and success possible for low-income students through an intensive curriculum of coaching and support. Ninety-one percent are students

Alumni Golf ClassicIn Memory of

DJ Sokol Friday, June 1, 2012

Alumni Reunion Saturday, June 2, 2012

Classes of: ’57, ’62, ’67, ’72, ’77, ’82, ’57, ’92, ’97, ’02, ’07

11

SATURDAYMARCH 24, 2012

Presented By

MOUNT MICHAEL BENEDICTINE

SATURDAYMARCH 24, 2012

Presented By

MOUNT MICHAEL BENEDICTINE

DeVeLoPmeNt NeWS

Sunday, December 18th, 2011, mark your calendars for Breakfast with Santa! Make the experience a new tradition in your family! Mass will be held at 9:30 a.m. in the Mount Michael Chapel. A continental breakfast will be served in the Armory to follow. Bring the whole family for this chance to meet Santa and tell him all the things you want for Christmas this year. Guests will be able to sit on Santa’s lap, take pictures and decorate cookies! This event is free to all who attend. Current families, alumni families and friends of Mount Michael are welcome. Please RSVP the development office at 402-253-0950. This event is brought to you by the Mount Michael Alumni Association.

breAKfASt WIth SANtA!

More events added as information becomes available! For updates, please visit our website at:

www.mountmichaelhs.com.

deCeMBeR 2011 18 Breakfast with Santa

MARCH 2012 24 23rd Night of Knights

23rd Annual Night of Knights Prayer

Heavenly Father protect us as we travel the wooden walkway of life.

Send your blessings upon “Knights on the Boardwalk,”

our fundraiser event. Support our mission to educate Mount Michael Benedictine students to be true Christians enabling them to walk in the footsteps of Christ.

In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

~ Abbot Theodore Wolff, O.S.B.

Night of Knights Kick Off! Introducing the 2012 Co-Chairs!

Pictured (left to right) Mr. and Mrs. Ron and Jessica Duce, Abbot Michael, Mr. and Mrs. Rick and Jennifer Bohnhoff.

A Quarterly Publication ofMOuNT MICHAEL BENEDICTINE ABBEY & SCHOOL 22520 Mount Michael Road • Elkhorn, NE 68022-3400 Phone 402-289-2541 www.mountmichael.com Abbot Rt. Rev. Michael Liebl, O.S.B. Interim School President Bob Goldsmith Director of Development Kimberly Volpone School Principal Dr. David J. Peters Director of Admissions Eric Crawford ’00

MIchAeLeeN Staff editor Kari Herbst Monastic editor Very Rev. Richard Thell, O.S.B. contributing editor Brother Benedict Mary, O.S.B. Publishing editors Mary Cormier Father John Hagemann, O.S.B. Brother Luke Clinton, O.S.B. Brother August Schaefer, O.S.B.

NONPROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

P A I DMAIL U.S.A.

A Quarterly Publication ofMOUNT MICHAEL BENEDICTINE ABBEY & SCHOOL22520 Mount Michael Road • Elkhorn, NE 68022-3400Phone 402-289-2541 Abbot Rt. Rev. Michael Liebl, O.S.B.

School President Abbot Raphael Walsh, O.S.B.Director of Development Kim Volpone

School Principal Tom RidderDirector of Admissions Eric Crawford

MICHAELEEN Staff Editor Amanda Erwin

Monastic Editor Rev. Richard Th ell, O.S.B. Publishing Editors Mary Cormier

Father John Hagemann, O.S.B. Brother Luke Clinton, O.S.B. Brother August Schaefer, O.S.B.

Mount Michael DirectoryMount Michael ChapelVisitors are always welcomeDaily Mass 7:15am • Sunday Mass 9:30amSaturday 8:00amLiturgy of the Hours (Monday-Saturday)Morning Praise 6:30amNoon Day Prayer 11:45amVespers 5:15pmNight Prayer (In the Abbey) 7:00pmSt. Benedict Guest HouseGift Shop/Lunches/Teas/DessertDay RetreatsBr. Jerome Kmiecik, 402-206-2069Vocation MinistryFor information about monastic life:Brother August, vocations@mountmichael.orgOblates of St. BenedictBr. Jerome Kmiecik, O.S.B., 402-206-2069oblates@mountmichael.org

Alumni AssociationFor information about meetings/events or to report news: 402-253-0953alumni@mountmichael.orgWorld Wide Webwww.mountmichael.org (Abbey)www.mountmichaelhs.org (School)www.mountmichael.net (Alumni)Prayer Needs and Spiritual DirectionAbbot Th eodore, O.S.B., 402-206-2089School AdmissionsEric Crawford, 402-253-0946admissions@mountmichael.orgDevelopment Offi ceKim Volpone, 402-253-0964kvolpone@mountmichael.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS William J. BehrendtJude Beller ’92Eric Crawford ’00Robert D. GoldsmithLaura HickmanSara York Kenny, Ph.D.Th omas McKnight, M.D.Robert LanikRt. Rev. Michael Liebl, O.S.B. ’68Mary Kay MillerBrian Morrissey ’84Ravi Nath, Ph.D.Br. James Pope, O.S.B.Th omas RidderTodd RohwederRev. Louis Sojka, O.S.B. ’81Audrey SuingRev. Richard Th ell, O.S.B.Kimberly VolponeRt. Rev. Raphael Walsh, O.S.B.Bernard J. Wilson, Jr. M.D. ’84Emeritus Peggy Sokol

NONPROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

P A I DMAIL U.S.A.

A Quarterly Publication ofMOUNT MICHAEL BENEDICTINE ABBEY & SCHOOL22520 Mount Michael Road • Elkhorn, NE 68022-3400Phone 402-289-2541 Abbot Rt. Rev. Michael Liebl, O.S.B.

School President Abbot Raphael Walsh, O.S.B.Director of Development Kim Volpone

School Principal Tom RidderDirector of Admissions Eric Crawford

MICHAELEEN Staff Editor Amanda Erwin

Monastic Editor Rev. Richard Th ell, O.S.B. Publishing Editors Mary Cormier

Father John Hagemann, O.S.B. Brother Luke Clinton, O.S.B. Brother August Schaefer, O.S.B.

Mount Michael DirectoryMount Michael ChapelVisitors are always welcomeDaily Mass 7:15am • Sunday Mass 9:30amSaturday 8:00amLiturgy of the Hours (Monday-Saturday)Morning Praise 6:30amNoon Day Prayer 11:45amVespers 5:15pmNight Prayer (In the Abbey) 7:00pmSt. Benedict Guest HouseGift Shop/Lunches/Teas/DessertDay RetreatsBr. Jerome Kmiecik, 402-206-2069Vocation MinistryFor information about monastic life:Brother August, vocations@mountmichael.orgOblates of St. BenedictBr. Jerome Kmiecik, O.S.B., 402-206-2069oblates@mountmichael.org

Alumni AssociationFor information about meetings/events or to report news: 402-253-0953alumni@mountmichael.orgWorld Wide Webwww.mountmichael.org (Abbey)www.mountmichaelhs.org (School)www.mountmichael.net (Alumni)Prayer Needs and Spiritual DirectionAbbot Th eodore, O.S.B., 402-206-2089School AdmissionsEric Crawford, 402-253-0946admissions@mountmichael.orgDevelopment Offi ceKim Volpone, 402-253-0964kvolpone@mountmichael.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS William J. BehrendtJude Beller ’92Eric Crawford ’00Robert D. GoldsmithLaura HickmanSara York Kenny, Ph.D.Th omas McKnight, M.D.Robert LanikRt. Rev. Michael Liebl, O.S.B. ’68Mary Kay MillerBrian Morrissey ’84Ravi Nath, Ph.D.Br. James Pope, O.S.B.Th omas RidderTodd RohwederRev. Louis Sojka, O.S.B. ’81Audrey SuingRev. Richard Th ell, O.S.B.Kimberly VolponeRt. Rev. Raphael Walsh, O.S.B.Bernard J. Wilson, Jr. M.D. ’84Emeritus Peggy Sokol

mount michael DirectoryMount Michael Chapel Visitors are always welcome Daily Mass 7:15am • Sunday Mass 9:30am Saturday 8:00amLiturgy of the Hours (Monday-Saturday) Morning Praise 6:30am Noon Day Prayer 11:45am Vespers 5:15pm Night Prayer (In the Abbey) 7:00pmSt. Benedict Guest House Gift Shop/Lunches/Teas/Dessert Day Retreats Brother Jerome Kmiecik, 402-206-2069Vocation Ministry For information about monastic life: Brother August, vocations@mountmichael.orgoblates of St. Benedict director Prior Richard Thell, O.S.B., 402-289-2541 x1002 rthell@mountmichael.org

Alumni Association For information about meetings/events or to report news: 402-253-0953 alumni@mountmichael.orgPrayer needs and Spiritual direction Abbot Theodore, O.S.B., 402-206-2089School Admissions Eric Crawford, 402-253-0946 admissions@mountmichael.orgdevelopment office Kim Volpone, 402-253-0964 kvolpone@mountmichael.org

boArD of DIreCtorS William J. BehrendtJude Beller ’92Eric Crawford ’00Robert D. GoldsmithLaura HickmanSara York Kenny, Ph.D.Robert LanikRt. Rev. Michael Liebl, O.S.B. ’68Dan MatuszekThomas McKnight, M.D.Mary Kay MillerRavi Nath, Ph.D.Dr. David J. PetersTodd RohwederRev. Louis Sojka, O.S.B. ’81Audrey SuingVery Rev. Richard Thell, O.S.B.Kimberly VolponeJohn Wagner, ’67Rt. Rev. Raphael Walsh, O.S.B.Bernard J. Wilson, Jr. M.D. ’84Emeritus Peggy Sokol

Santa’s breakfast

11

SATURDAYMARCH 24, 2012

Presented By

MOUNT MICHAELBENEDICTINE

SATURDAYMARCH 24, 2012

Presented By

MOUNT MICHAELBENEDICTINE

Night of Knights

117booster News

IN this ISSUE…

2marian Shrine