Deacon John Rodgers has been a part of our school’s history since he was a student here. After graduation in 1967, Deacon continued his education as he worked towards answering a call that God continued to make.
How did your Catholic education shape your vocation?
Talking about Bonner history in 1967 must seem like ancient history to many. But as I thought about this question, I realized that having the monastery behind school was impressive, not because of the building, but because it was a house where so many Augustinians lived - with real men who were committed to God. Even with so many students in the building, I felt known.
In those days, each priest had to say daily mass and so there were many altars in the monastery. Altar servers were needed for each and so many young men volunteered for what became known as the BBC – Bonner Breakfast Club. Since Father provided donuts for the servers for after mass, many of us chose to help the fastest priest because that meant he would finish first and his altar boys were first to the donuts. Two key men - Father Al Smith and Father Gordon Marcellus found part time jobs for me working in the rectory and I wanted to be like them.
I “tried out” being an Augustinian but realized that was not my path. I never lost sight of thinking about the diaconate. A good friend kept saying I was made for the ministry, service to community, but I did not make that happen right away.
What wisdom or guidance would you share with students discerning their own paths, whether it’s a vocational calling or other life decisions?
Find a mentor, coach, or someone you can trust to talk with. Do not miss what God intends.
Share with us a memorable story.
My service with the Bonner Breakfast Club and working with Father Marcellus really impressed me and influenced my decision-making as I thought about my path in life. While I did not enter the Augustinian seminary, I remained committed to the Lord and never lost sight of studying for the diaconate. I graduated from Villanova with an English degree; worked for GE on Huntington Avenue; went back for a degree in Religious Education; worked at O’Hara and taught at Kendrick for 20 years.
What are the most rewarding aspects of your vocation?
I have been gifted to serve in many roles, and each has deepened my faith. I am blessed to be husband, father, grandfather, ordained deacon, and coach.
Are there specific prayers, rituals, or traditions that have remained meaningful from your time in high school?
Daily mass, with the BBC, the saying “Daily donuts = daily mass = love of God.” Daily mass, with the BBC, was motivated by chocolate frosted donuts but that experience has led me attend daily Mass for a more important reason – love of God.
Looking back on your journey, what would you tell your high school self now?
Make God a primary focus of your life.