Oblate Impact
This page is dedicated to testimonies from those who have been positively impacted by the presence of the Oblates in their lives, Salesian Spirituality, and the teachings of St. Francis de Sales.
“They gave me the foundation for my adult life at Allentown College- Now DeSales. I am back as a graduate student there- no other place I'd rather be.”
- Kate Koles
"‘Be not miserable about what may happen tomorrow. The same everlasting Father, who cares for you today, will care for you tomorrow.’ - St. Francis de Sales. A good reminder for when life gets hard.”
- Chrystal Stevens Bisonet
“Eager to offer simple acts of kindness every day to others in need, no matter how minor in the grand scheme of things, provides me with joy and peace. Being grateful and willing to help loved ones and strangers alike is my way to Live Jesus.”
- Rich Adams
“No group embodies the teachings of St. Francis deSales more than the Oblates. A zeal for teaching and ministry, encouraging one to follow their vocational path, whether it be a teacher, a president of a corporation, or to religious life. Being the best version of ourselves is what we are all called to be, and by being that best version, we give glory to God who created us. I would not be who I am today, nor accomplished what I have or be as attached to our Catholic faith if it were not for my relationship with the Oblates of St Francis deSales and the teaching of St. Francis deSales. May we all continue to Live + Jesus in all we do in life.”
- Lou James
“The Oblates are a living example of Jesus’ love and gentleness for me. They taught me that God loves us all no matter how ordinary we are. Without Jesus (God), life has no meaning.”
- Carol Raphael
“While I have not yet figured out exactly what I am, I am trying to be that well.”
- Bob Nunnally
“Daily Mass at DeSales in the early 90s was a game-changer for me. So many dedicated priests...Frs. Gambet (he "tied our knot"), Pocetto, O'Connor, Walsh, Hanley, Hillyard, Harvey with great homilies and wonderful teaching styles. Fr. Harvey helped shape my views on medical ethics. Fr. Dailey once gave a 3-word homily, "God loves you," that rocked me to the core. Fr. Finnegan was such a truly human man...ministering to the poor and imprisoned, taking care of fellow priests, gardening on his hands and knees on campus, giving a hug that felt like you were part of his family.”
- Jane Frances DeChantal Bigley Cartwright.
“I have known many of the Oblates over the years, and they are very kind, gentle, and spiritual individuals. Happy Feast Day to all who were/are connected to St. Francis de Sales in any way.”
- Bonnie Hofbauer
“Fr. Frank Dougherty introduced my Dad and Mom during the All Catholic Schools production of "The Student Prince in the '40s. Dad was a student at North, and Mom was at West. My brother and sisters were lucky enough to have Oblate priests present throughout our lives. My brother Frank was part of the 2nd graduating class of DeSales University and my cousin Fr. George Salzmann is currently part of the clergy. I have been blessed my entire life with positive influences from my Oblate connection. Thank you, St. Francis and the Oblates!”
- Jane Cartwright
“Toledo, Ohio, Oblates living in faith and brotherhood have been a blessing for the boys at the school, helping my son see what LIVE JESUS looks like in a modern world. Also, reignite my love of Catholic practice.”
- Lori Davis
“Leading a school rich in the Salesium Spirituality is a beautiful blessing. Thank you to the Visitation Sisters and our brothers in Christ, the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales.”
- Barbara Edmondson
"My uncle Dennis Murphy was an Oblate. His love for his vocation brought my love for my faith. As always, Oblates are always family no matter where you are.”
- Lisa Voytko
“I spent so much of my teenage life at Salesianum. The priests/staff emotionally grounded me. I am eternally grateful.”
- Philip Leach
“My four years at North Catholic, I had the pleasure and honor to learn from so many great Oblate priests and brothers. Fathers Erbrick, Hanlon, Pileggi, Howarth, Ashenbrener, etc., all great men and very holy priests. I am the man I am today because of my 4 years at North Catholic.”
- Mike McDevitt
"Salesian Spirituality, I think, should be credited for the concept of intentionality. The prayer of Direction of Intention starts my day. Oh my God, I give you this day. I offer you now all of the good which I shall do. I promise to accept, for love of you, all of the difficulty which I shall meet. Help me to conduct myself during this day in a manner most pleasing to you.”
- Stan Sienkiewicz
“My connection is with Don Bosco’s Salesians. As a young seminarian, it seemed that we had model overload with St. Francis de Sales and St. John Bosco. The first things I learned about St. Francis was from a biography they read to us in the dorms as we got ready for bed (during the grand silence). He was given to us as a model because Don Bosco felt that his gentlemanly compassion was needed when working with youth. As a veteran of 44 years in Catholic, including SDB Salesian schools, I agree that the patience and compassion of St. Francis were definitely needed.”
- Paul Anthony Zaccagnino
“Was blessed to grow up in Little Italy in the 60’s and 70’s, and Saint Anthony’s was the center of my universe. Father Tucker, Father Roberto, Father Mario, Brother Mike, and the rest of the Oblates were true leaders of the flock. They helped shape the lives of so many. Sadly, since those golden days, the parish has seen way too many priests come and go. It’s not even remotely the same.”
- Vincent Eoppolo
"Salesian Spirituality, I think, should be credited for the concept of intentionality. The prayer of Direction of Intention starts my day. Oh my God, I give you this day. I offer you now all of the good which I shall do. I promise to accept, for love of you, all of the difficulty which I shall meet. Help me to conduct myself during this day in a manner most pleasing to you.”
- Stan Sienkiewicz
“I have had the pleasure of cooking for the Sallies Oblates for the past 7 years. It has been the best experience of my career! I am truly grateful and blessed to be a part of the community!”
- Allison Lopiano-Yotter
“Fathers Malloy and Schubert instilled my love and appreciation of theatre. Fathers Hagan and Clarke guided my moral compass and taught me compassion.”
- Jim McDermott
“I think I can honestly say that I owe everything that I am and have to the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. May the Spirit of St. Francis de Sales continue to bless us all! Live Jesus!”
- Joseph Nines
“I spent 5 summers working at Camp Brisson as a Nurse. Best time ever. Community, prayer, and play were superb.”
- Ann Strohminger
“Tenui Nec Dimittam. Go Salesianum. That's all I have to say.”
- Mark Schweiger Jr.
“Their community life of gentleness, peace, and joy sets a great model for our parish.”
- Sallie Latkovich
“Fr. Tom Gallagher was a great influence on me during my years at North Catholic. His advice and guidance helped me to become the man I am today. Thank you, Fr. Tom.”
- Joseph Waters
“Treasured friends! Bro. Mickey McGrath, OSFS”
- Cecelia Cavanaugh
“Given spiritual and educational guidance to three generations of our family at St. Francis de Sales School, Toledo, OH. Thank you!”
- Edward Ted Mohler
“I owe the Felician Sisters and the Oblates for the educational and spiritual guidance. Class of 1961 Salesian HS Detroit, MI.”
- Gary Ernat