V. Rev. Lewis S. Fiorelli, OSFS
First Profession:
August 21, 1962
Final Profession:
September 17, 1966
Ordination:
September 12, 1970
Ministries:
Faculty, De Sales Hall School of Theology, Father Judge (Philadelphia), St. Francis de Sales High School (Toledo, OH); Superior General; Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish; General formation coordinator; Auxiliary Religious Assistant to the two VHM federations; Provincial
Present Ministry:
Provincial - Wilmington/Philadelphia Province
What was a favorite course you had in school, from grade school thru grad school?
In high school, I took to geometry and history, while in theology Christology opened God to me.
Why is Salesian gentleness so important to you?
Our fractured world is in great need of people and institutions that are “a gentle presence in a violent world.” Salesian gentleness can have a global impact!
What is the most recent book you read? Who was the author, and what did you think of it?
Of all the books that I have read in the last five years, the one that has had the most lasting impact on me is the winner of the Pulitzer Prize by Jack Miles, God: A Biography. This book gives the reader a new and bracing understanding of the God of the Old Testament as well as of the Old Testament itself.
If you were asked to select a motto by which to live - other than De Sales’ Live Jesus, what would it be?
”Heed the promptings of your better angels.”
What do you miss about living in a time when there was less technology?
In times past, I relished more the quiet depth of the present moment, without today’s “noise,” intrusiveness, and distractions.
Pope Francis continues to both inspire and challenge. What is most inspiring about him and what is most challenging?
I am in admiration of the gentle manner in which he reacts to those who speak ill of him and of the welcoming approach of his papal ministry. There is much to learn from his manner of being himself.
Of all the gifts friends and family have given you, what is a favorite?
When I was elected Superior General, one of my sisters gave me a little crystal figure of a bear carrying suitcases in each hand - a symbol that forecasted my life for the next 12 years!
On a bad day, how do you make it a little better?
I go for a walk and just take in the beauty of nature. This refreshes me, clears my mind, and lets the comforting and quieting voice of Providence be heard.
What is a favorite Scripture quote or passage?
I love the account of the loaves and fish. Jesus took the little that was given to him by his disciples and fed five thousand! He does that still.
