by Fr. Michael Greco and Br. Lake Herman

According to Google Maps, driving directly from Mount Calvary, Wis., to the Cheyenne reservation in Montana takes 15 hours and 15 minutes. Most of the trip runs along Interstate 90, going west through Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming a little bit, and finally into Montana. In the year 2000, five Capuchin novices and two Capuchin formators made this journey over a couple of days, stopping to see the sights. As we traveled west on I-90, we passed many, many signs announcing that ahead of us in Wall, S.D., population 699, we could visit the “World Famous” Wall Drug Store! They read: “Only 600 miles to Wall Drug”; “5-cent coffee and free ice water at Wall Drug”; “330 miles to Wall Drug”; and so on. The gimmick is clever, because our anticipation did build. Nevertheless, this is not an article about a tourist destination. You’ll have to take the trip yourself to decide whether it’s worth seeing this little town in South Dakota with its highly expanded drugstore, restaurant, and unique attractions. We just liked the signage. It kept the journey interesting.

As we reflect upon our 25 years as Capuchin friars, Brother Lake and I both feel like the Lord has dotted the road with plenty of interesting signage. During periods where we might have been feeling bored or overly challenged by our vocation, eventually another sign popped up, saying “Paradise awaits”; “The journey is all worth it”; “Enjoy the trip!” It’s true for all of us as Christians. Paradise indeed awaits, and it’s even more extravagant than the “World Famous Wall Drug”! Furthermore, it doesn’t matter what route we’re taking to get there, whether as a religious, a priest, married, single, or other lifestyles. God is here to encourage us; we just need to keep our eyes open for the signs.

Each of us would like now to share a story of the signs the Lord has placed along the road to keep us moving forward.  

Father Michael

I will begin with my time early in initial formation. Brother Lake and I both entered the Order in August 1999, and we were solemnly professed together in 2005. Within that time, we spent a year in Brooklyn, a year in Wisconsin, and a year in Toronto, followed by four years in Massachusetts, where we studied theology. Capuchin formation is exciting and a lot of fun; however, theological studies is challenging! We both attended Weston Jesuit School of Theology in Cambridge, Mass., which is now a part of Boston College. Our professors were brilliant and demanding. Now, by the time I joined the Capuchins, I had already attained a master’s degree in English literature from Fordham University. That was not easy, because while in graduate studies I was also teaching at my alma mater, Fordham Prep, coaching tennis, and working in campus ministry! So as post-novitiate drew near, I simply could not envision myself going back to graduate school! I kept saying things to Jesus like, “I’m pretty sure you’re calling me to be a priest, Lord, but I don’t know how you are going to accomplish that, since I am not going back to graduate school!” Of course, God waited patiently, placing little signs along my path. As I heard different Capuchins preach from the pulpit, I would be amazed by their ability to connect with people. And I knew I wanted the ability to do the same thing. Our year of formation in Toronto was all about ministry. I worked in a few places, one of which was a literacy center. I conducted a weekly Bible study, and over the course of the months, I just loved sharing about Scripture and hearing others do the same. The experience really ignited my passion to delve deeper into God’s Word. So, by the time we were ready to start theological studies, the Lord had worn down my resistance and built up my enthusiasm. Graduate school turned out to be a fantastic experience—difficult, but worth every minute! Consequently, I rejoice in the many opportunities that I have now to preach and to preside at the liturgy. I especially love doing so as a Capuchin friar. 

Brother Lake

Like Michael, in my life there have been many vivid signposts of God’s presence and grace over the past 25 years. Even more, Capuchin life taught me to be more attentive to the small and subtle movements of Christ in daily life. I’ve had grace-filled companions and encountered a countless number of people who, through their shared joys and heartbreaks, their triumphs and tragedies, have found strength, consolation, and meaning in the Gospel. This was especially true for me during my years at Capuchin Youth & Family Ministries (now Capuchin Family Ministries). As a formator for the past 14 years, I have been humbled by the opportunity to accompany our newest members in their initial steps of Capuchin life. I find particular joy in introducing them to the treasures of our Capuchin charism, traditions, and saintly legacy. I am inspired by their contemplation of Christ’s grace and goodness in their lives. Please keep us all in your prayers as we continue the “daring adventure of love” (Capuchin Constitutions, 187:2).