THE ORDER OF ST. JEAN DE BREBEUF

My path has been intersected by many people who have impressed, delighted, inspired and amazed me. Many have been colleagues and students I have met during my forty plus years at Brebeuf College.

Last Saturday night, five such people were recognized as the first inductees to the Order of St. Jean de Brebeuf in a ceremony held in the school’s atrium. The award, as described in the program of this inaugural event, recognizes achievement that exemplifies the values and ideals of Brebeuf College School, namely: faith, discipline, integrity, hard work, humility, excellence, success, pursuit of the greater good, friendship, community and for always being men and women for others.

Steve White, chairman of the selection committee, indicated in his address to a friendly crowd of about 140 people that this award is not like a Walk of Fame tribute. It is not about notoriety or achievement. Rather, it is recognition for dedication and service to the Brebeuf family and beyond.

The inductees were Neil Gazeley, one of the founding fathers of the school, Brother Henry Spencer, the school’s eternal chaplain, Father Brian Massie S.J., former guidance head and founder of Camp Ekon, Paul Clancy ’79, a man who wears many volunteer hats with class and humility, and Marc Kielburger ’94, co-founder of three renowned youth-focused organizations: Free the Children, Leaders Today and Me To We.

The festivities were smoothly emceed by CTV news anchor Bill Hutchison, a Brebeuf grad from 1975. The opening Mass was celebrated by Father Rye, whose thoughtful homily set the tone for the night, while the dinner arrangements were handled flawlessly by Rosemary Lavery.

It was great to be back in the company of so many friends whose support made a world of difference in my battle against cancer last year.

I look forward to many more such gatherings. Not only was it about recognizing some special individuals, it was about celebrating a school community; it was about building a school tradition.

Indeed, the current group of students and staff at Brebeuf College should be walking tall today. Know that you are part of something bigger than you can ever imagine.


                                        If life is about spreading the seeds of hope

in the hearts of others

then may the Order of St. Jean de Brebeuf

be an assembly of those

Our Lord calls His master sowers.