Final Words/ from our readers

Readers remember segregated South and write in admiration of Glenmary brothers

CLAXTON MEMORIES

The story about African Americans living in Claxton, Ga., during the 1960s (“Making a Choice, Finding a Home,” Spring 2008) reminded me of the two black Catholic funerals at which I assisted [as a Glenmary priest] in 1961.

Ms. Ada Toomer, the only black Catholic in the county, died and was buried from Glenmary’s St. Christopher Church. I recall so clearly to this day how reluctant the white deputy sheriff was to accompany her hearse to the black cemetery...that just wasn’t done.

After all, the letters on the door of the laundromat in town, “White only,” didn’t refer to the color of your laundry.

BROTHERHOOD: Readers enjoyed the article in the Spring 2008 issue on Glenmary brotherhood. Brother David Henley’s approach to evangelization at an Arkansas poultry plant—chicken line theology—garnered much attention too. Brother David, above, has obtained a new position at the plant: chaplain.

And when “Patrick” was executed on March 17, 1962, I was privileged to accompany him to the electric chair since the Baptist chaplain at the Georgia State Prison in Reidsville didn’t “walk” black prisoners.

After all, the Dairy Queen clearly labeled their water fountains as “white” and “colored” so that everyone would know proper protocol.

Dr. Paul J. Ackerman
Columbus, Miss.

TALKING POINTS

I wanted to express my wishes for a joyous Easter season to you. It was nice to see the coverage given to the work of the brothers in the recent issue of Glenmary Challenge (“Lives of Service,” Spring 2008).

I pray that you still have at least one brother candidate in the wings.

Rather than retire, I substitute teach in the public schools and have had experiences not unlike Brother David Henley. The crucifix on my desk is a some time “talking point.”

Paul Rothermich
Toledo, Ohio

EVANGELIZATION OPPORTUNITY

I write in admiration for all the blessings and graces poured out in the so-worthy lives of Glenmary brothers: carbon copies of St. Joseph—humble, hidden workers among mankind.

I was very impressed by Brother David Henley and his opportunities to evangelize with “chicken-line theology.”

I am a retired Spanish teacher (42 years) and I also served as a Lay Mission-Helper (Los Angeles) in Ecuador in the early 1960s.

Paul A. Leehan
Seal Beach, Calif.

HELPING THE NEEDY

I do enjoy your magazine and pass it on when I am finished reading it.

It is sad that there are so many suffering people in the world. I pray for them all. I am a retired teacher and far from wealthy but I try to help the needy as best I can.

I also keep praying that those in need and those you help will benefit from more donors.

Please keep me in your prayers.

Bertha Mueller
Argyle, Wis.