Unpacking the Richness

Brilliant of mind. Steadfast with purpose. Single-hearted. His words take you to the mystical.

“We are the only parts of the universe where that universe becomes conscious of itself. . . . By discovering the meanings throughout the universe, man completes it. When he acts, he participates in creation – making it whole, making it perfect.

“We are where thought seeps into the totality of all that exists – like a sunbeam that pierces the darkness of the forest bed.

“I guess that’s why He said ‘you are the light of the world,’” he offers, as his soft chuckle brims with kindness.

John Totten has been a Brother of Mary since 1934 because of a gut feeling.

“We make all life’s important decisions on the basis of gut feelings. We each have a deep current that runs through us. We’ve only to seek it out – and follow.

“My current brought me to the richness of the Society of Mary. I knew I had to spend the rest of my life unpacking that richness.”

After 20 years teaching in Marianist high schools, Brother returned to St. Mary’s with a spirit that saw him through decades of service within its philosophy department. “The only reason I’ve done any of this studying is to understand the Society of Mary.

“As Marianists, we discover the will of God – we follow our currents – through consensus . . . Not as individuals – as community. This makes us very vulnerable, but it’s our way – our way to the Spirit.”

Brother John Totten. You’ll find him in his current. You’ll find him at peace.

Brother John R. Totten, S.M., retired from teaching since 1994, has been a Marianist for 68 years.