Sioux and Xaverian Mutual Influence

Length of service and perseverance in commitment are gifts not easily embraced in the dynamics of modern life. Brother Bede’s sixty years as a Xaverian Brother and nearly thirty years in service to his beloved Sioux received due recognition recently in a celebration on the reservation in South Dakota.

From 1971 to the present, Brother Bede Benn, CFX and other Xaverians have lived among the Sioux, teaching and counseling them. During these years the Brothers have watched the Sioux make major strides in education, assuming positions in the classroom and school administrative offices, and discernable progress in combating the plague of alcoholism. Brothers Bede and Daniel Lynch, a science teacher at Sinte Gleska University, believe they have been blessed in their time there as well. Their spirituality has been enhanced both by the peace and quiet of their life there that nourishes prayer and contemplation and by the awareness of the presence of God in all the aspects and moments of life that is uniquely real for native Americans.

Looking to the future, both Brothers see a need for continuing pastoral presence. Now the need seems to be for assisting in the formation of a vibrant lay presence on the parish level. For those who would follow Brothers Bede and Daniel, a period of initial preparation for ministry is indispensable. A willingness to commit for several years is also crucial in light of the need to foster trust and mutual acceptance.

As this century comes to a close, the Xaverian contribution to the well-being of the Sioux over the years has been substantial and much appreciated.