Creation of a Sec1'lar Clergy
2 73
dass on Sacred Scriptures to which he brought a wonderful knowledge of Greek, Hebrew and Latin. In the course of time he taught Latin and Spanish and conducted classes in Biblical studies. 50 A new era began for the Seminary under the energetic direction of Father Kirwin, destined to be named Monsignor by Pope Pius XI on June 24, 1922, in recognition of his long and fruitful labors in behalf of the Church. For years after his death in 1926, the Seminarians were to remember vividly his enthusiasm, his kindness, his charity, and his deep understanding of the human heart. Fifteen years of his life were dedicated to the work of the Seminary, which, from the moment he took ever, became the apple of his eye. "No parent ever labored harder or longer than did Father Kirwin for the good of his children," said the Seminarians in January, 1926, in paying final tribute to his services as rector and teacher. 51 "We who knew him ... intimately will ever thank . .. God for ... such a splendid model ... to pattern our future career in the holy priesthood," said one of his Seminarians. Only God knows how many he and his fellow-workers helped become true men of God. In 1928 the Kenvin Memorial Chapel was dedicated to his memory at St. Mary's Seminary in La Porte.si The Most Reverend C. E. Byrne was appointed to the See of Galveston on July 18, 1918, to succeed Bishop Gallagher. When he was installed the following November, he stated in the most emphatic terms that the primary object during his term in office was going to be to endeavor to increase the number of native vocations to the priesthood. The "Grand Old Man" of Texas kept his word. Throughout his long rule he preached con- stantly the dire need of vocations and gave his undivided support to the growth and development of St. Mary's at La Porte. In 1920 the old orig- inal building of St. Mary's University in Galveston was moved to La Porte and considerable alterations were made. The original charter granted by the State Legislature in 1856, was amended on May 1, 1926, by the Secretary of State to read "at La Porte." Since that date St. Mary's Seminary has been known as St. Mary's University. 53 50 Reverend George Elmendorf, Memoirs of Mo,mgnor /. M. Kerwin [61-62). 51 /bia. (97]. Monsignor J. M. Kerwin was born July 1, 1872, was ordained June 19, 1895, served as Chaplain in the Spanish-American War in 1898 and again in the first World War, became Vicar General of the Diocese of Galveston and Rector of St. Mary's Seminary in 19II, and died on January 24, 1926.
51 Elmendorf, Memoirs of •• • /. M. KH'fllin [71, 98], "Diocese of Galveston, Cente,mial, 1847-1947, p. 147,
Powered by FlippingBook