Linwood, New Jersey                                                                                                                Fall 2004

….TO LABOR SELFLESSLY FOR THE
HONOR OF THE SACRED HEARTS..

Bro. Frank (far left) and Bro. Robert (far right) 
receive the habit of the congregation with the help of Fr. Michael Messaro,
Formation Director (center left)
and Fr. Robert McDade, Vocation Director (center right). 

     The 2004 celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the 18^th of June became the setting for added joy and thanksgiving as two novices, Bro. Robert Malagesi and Bro. Frank Myers professed their first vows as members of the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts.  Traditionally this Feast was celebrated with an outdoor Mass at the Shrine of the

     Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary on the grounds of Villa Pieta, but the profession coinciding with the Feast, brought more attendees than could be accommodated at that location.  The Mass was offered at the parish church, Our Lady of Sorrows in Linwood, which was founded and staffed by the congregation.

     Over 250 family, friends and those devoted to the Sacred Hearts filled the church.  The Mass was also the opening liturgy of the annual Novena of Masses in honor of the Sacred Hearts, which is offered for the intentions of the friends and benefactors of the Missionaries.  Delegate to the Superior General,  Fr. Malcolm MacLeod was the main celebrant.  During his homily he spoke of Bl. Gaetano Errico, founder of the congregation, reminding all of his deep devotion to the Sacred Hearts and his example of tireless work of leading all to the knowledge of the love Jesus and Mary have for each of us.

     Bro. Robert and Bro. Frank entered the Novitiate one year ago after being in contact with the congregation as postulants for over a year prior.  During postulancy, candidates become acquainted with the history and charism of the community and religious life, either in residence or through regular visitations. After acceptance as a novice, they live in community further discerning their call.  After the Novitiate with a duration of one year usually, a petition to be accepted to profess first vows must be approved by the Superior General and General Council.  These first vows are temporary vows and will be professed for three years before the final perpetual profession is granted.

     Bro. Robert Malagesi is a native of Philadelphia, PA area and worked as a paralegal before entering the community.  Bro. Frank Myers also from the Philadelphia area, had a 26-year career as a middle school teacher in South Jersey.  They will now reside at the Blessed Gaetano Errico House of Studies in Fairfield PA while continuing their studies at Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD.