The Church designates Sunday, February 13 as World Marriage Day, and the US Conference of Catholic Bishops designates February 7 - 14 as National Marriage Week. Here at St. Austin, we offer a few resources in recognition that the pandemic has added to the challenges of many of our interpersonal relationships.
First, we recognize the great work of Sr. Lynn Levo, CSJ, a licensed psychologist who reminds us that all human beings, whether they are married or not, are called to intimacy - having deep, meaningful relationships with other people. Intimacy comes in many forms. All of us should include many forms of intimacy in our lives on a regular basis. For example, we can all strive to have friends with whom we regularly discuss ideas, create things, share in recreational activities, appreciate aesthetics, share common tasks, work through crises, mutually invest time and effort, and form spiritual bonds. After two years of pandemic isolation, perhaps we can all seek to remedy whatever forms of intimacy are currently lacking in our lives. Should you have the opportunity to attend a presentation by Sr. Lynn, don't miss it. For a taste of her work, consider this article, Working Toward Hope.
Next, we offer a guide from Amendo, a media platform designed for 20-somethings interested in reconnecting life and spirit. The editors assemble their best advice on a critical component of any relationship - communicating well with your partner. Whether you're 20 or a multiple thereof, it's essential! We hope you'll explore A Valentine’s Day Guide to Better Communication in Your Relationship.
In a listening mood? We recommend a homily from early October 2021 inspired a number of parishioners to volunteer in new ways that support others and build relationships. Here's a link to Fr. Rich's Advice on How to Tend to Christ's Body.
Finally, a bit of levity to bring you a smile, we share a cartoon from The Oatmeal. Fr. Rich often shares this funny when doing marriage preparation.
Weddings at St. Austin's
Suzanne & Mark Marshall
September 12, 1987
Rev. Larry Doersching, officiated. Fr. Larry was Mark's high school teacher at St. John Vianney, St. Louis, Missouri.
Stevens Sisters Marry Six Weeks Apart!
Nona & Richard Rogers
August 5, 1967
Nona Stevens & Richard Rogers met at the University Catholic Center. In this photo (L - R) are Billy & Margaret Rogers, Nona & Richard, and Gwendolyn Schieffer Stevens & Harvey Morris (Steve) Stevens
Steve Stevens escorts the first of his two daughters down the aisle. Steve thought the family room would never be the same as Nona and Nancy made both their wedding gowns and Nancy made Gwendolyn's dress worn for both happy occasions.
Michael Stevens was his sister Nancy's proud ring bearer, also pictured with the bride are Nona and Gwendolyn.
Nancy & Tom Hrin
September 23, 1967
Nancy Stevens & Tom Hrin's engagement story is delightful! Tom had returned to his home in Pittsburgh, PA as Nancy completed her studies at UT. He proposed in a letter and sent her engagement ring by mail. Nancy's mother, who received the package and exclaimed - "I'm engaged to the mailman!"
In this photo (L - R) are Tom, Sr. & Anna Hrin, Tom & Nancy, and Gwendolyn, Steve, and Nona.
Fr. Walter Dalton, CSP officiated at both weddings Nancy & Tom are pictured above. The altar server is Nancy & Nona's brother Harvey Morris Stevens, Jr.
Servant of God Isaac Hecker looks on our smiling bride, Nancy.
Ann & Rod Richburg
December 10, 1994
Fr. Rick Walsh, CSP officiated.
Shannon & Sean Donohue
July 15, 2005
The newlyweds received their guests in Hecker Hall. Fr. Patrick Johnson, CSP (Fr. P. J.) officiated.
Nancy & Phil Jones
1965
Father David O’Brien, CSP enjoyed the celebration.
Did Your Family Begin at St. Austin?
We'd love to share your story and photos, too! Just email [email protected] with your anniversary date and a photo or two, along with your names and that of the officiant. Some have said, "I married here, but my marriage ended. You don't want to put mine up, do you?" Our answer - it's up to you. We opened this page to celebrate new families established in great joy and hope. Life is filled with challenges and disappointments, to meet those darker times, it's a "good stop" to reflect fondly and with gratitude for past graces.