Dear Patrons and friends,
This past 15th of June Fr Daniel Hennessy took the reigns of the Patrons of the Arts here in Rome. It has been a blessing to work with him since his arrival in January as he learned and embraced this new role. I am sure you will find his leadership and demeanor as delightful as I have.
As I prepared for this transition over the last months, my thoughts often gravitated towards the past as I surveyed all we have lived together in the Patrons. You could say I grew up as a priest before your eyes. I am grateful for your patience and your response to my efforts to lead this organization. I am particularly moved by all that God has accomplished in terms of growth, new and successful initiatives and chapters, and amazing restoration projects. Through your generosity and the hard work of so many Chapter Leaders, Board Members, Vatican Patron’s staff, Museum technitians and donors, we have returned to the world some of the greatest works of faith and artistry that humanity has ever known.
I’m excited about the next chapter in my priestly ministry which will take me to New York City. I will live with our Legionary community in Rye, NY and serve as National Chaplain of Lumen Institute, which is dedicated to mentor and inspire business leaders to transform society. I’ll keep myself busy in spiritual coaching, retreat work as well as supporting the local chaplains of Lumen. I also hope to continue writing in the themes of art and spirituality.
Personally, I look forward to continuing to be involved with the Patrons. It has been such a big part of my life and I wouldn’t want it to disappear. The Cardinal has asked me to stay involved as special advisor to Fr Daniel as the International Director. This will allow me to support him and any of the chapters that ask my assistance.
More immediately I will be participate with some other 25 legionary priests in a two month summer sabbatical program of priestly renewal in Mexico City. I am so blessed to have this time of prayer, silence, writing, and community life to deepen in the essentials of my priesthood. Please keep me and my fellow brothers in your prayers. To take advantage of the retreat you will understand if I am a bit “off the grid” as far as communication until September 1st when I start my new role in New York. At that point, I’ll be found on my patrons email and my home address will be 815 Boston Post Rd, Rye, NY 10580. I look forward to keeping up the friendships I’ve made in the Patrons as of each of you have a special place in my heart.
May God continue to bless all of you and may God lead and guide the Patrons organization to be what he wants it to be – a growing force to restore and inspire many through the beauty of the Vatican collection.
Sincerely yours, Fr Mark Haydu LC