Praying on the Future

On an Indian-summer day of 1924, miles of corn fields stretch out in checkered order to surround the red brick one-room schoolhouse in Dyersville, Iowa. Inside, a 12-year-old battles gravity as he tries to sit up on his bench and listen to the teacher’s words. But his thoughts transport him to his future – and the big city where he’ll attend Xavier High School. That’s a school run by the Brothers of Mary – and a Brother of Mary is what Arthur Goerdt really wants to be.

Following his first vows in 1932, Brother Art taught in Marianist schools before coming to St. Mary’s in 1963 – to launch more than 35 years of teaching composition, literature and Shakespearean sonnets.

A national president of the Catholic Library Association, his writing earned him a place in numerous collections including Men of Achievement, Contemporary Authors, the American and International Directories of Scholars – and Who’s Who in America, in Library and Information Services, in Education and in Community Service.

But to remember Art Goerdt is to recall his kitten-soft grin, 100-proof sincerity and that glimmer in his eyes as he’d recount a hunting or fishing exploit.

Brother lived his life always focused on the future – and on hope.

“I really should spend more time praying . . . that young people will come to join the Brothers and Daughters of Mary,” he said.

“I am optimistic, though. I think the Holy Spirit will continue to inspire people to do the right thing, to keep the Church alive.

“I guess I just have to keep on praying.”

As should we all.

Brother Arthur Goerdt, S.M., died Oct. 15, 1995, at the age of 84. He was a Marianist for 64 years.