In Celebration of the 2023 Jubilarians of the Society of Mary - August 5, 2023
From Loretta Sanchez
Assumption Chapel • St. Mary's University
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio Jubilarians
75 years of profession:
Rev. Conrad Kaczkowski, S.M.
Brother Al Kuntemeier, S.M.
70 years of profession:
Brother Al McMenamy, S.M.
Brother DuWayne Brisendine, S.M.
60 years of profession:
Brother James Burkholder, S.M.
Brother Lawrence McBride, S.M.
50 years of ordination:
Rev. Christian Janson, S.M.
75 years of profession
I was born in 1930 in Pine Lawn, MO, a suburb of St. Louis, to Arthur and Regina (Peterman) Kuntemeier. I had one older brother and two older sisters. As a freshman at Northside Catholic High School, Bro. James Powers talked to me about being a brother and going to Maryhurst. I was impressed by the brothers there and said, “Yes.” I have never regretted that decision. I was at Novitiate in 1947 and took first vows in 1948 in Galesville, WI. I completed a BS in Education from University of Dayton in 1951, an MBA from Marquette University in 1962 and my MA in counseling in 1971 from Notre Dame.
70 years of profession
In my 70 years of profession, I’ve served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and professor at various high schools and universities in Colorado, Missouri, Oklahoma, Illinois, Texas, and Japan. I’ve also held various roles, including assistant director, business manager, secretary, and professor in India, Los Angeles, Rome, and Honolulu.
I was born December 13th, 1935, in Addison, MI, to Edgar and Ardith (Cheesbro) Brisendine and had two brothers and two sisters. In 1951, I entered the postulate at Maryhurst Normal in Kirkwood, MO.
70 years of profession
I grew up in a very religious family environment on a small farm. We were a big family, growing and sharing in life and our faith. I thought I wanted to be a priest or religious starting in grade school. I joined the Marianists in high school mainly because I liked the brothers who taught me. Their goodness, cheerfulness, and care for one another attracted me. I have been happy in my religious life. God has been good – all the time. I loved teaching and sharing with high school students.
60 years of profession
It has been a wonderful, grace-filled 60 years since my first profession. Many of my high school teachers and professors at St. Mary’s University were outstanding Marianist educators who inspired me to do my best. My years in St. Louis brought challenges and growth, both professionally and spiritually, and there are parents and students I am still in contact with today. The assignment to San Antonio was another grace and growth opportunity. I have lived with many wonderful Marianists, including some former teachers. For the most part, community life has been a joy.
60 years of profession
Reflecting on this jubilee celebration and the beautiful journey since taking my vows 60 years ago this August, I am washed over with peacefulness and gratefulness. I am peaceful because God’s presence brings peace, and I have had the joy of dwelling in His presence. I am grateful for the opportunity and relationships I’ve been gifted along the way.
My faith journey began from the outset for me. My Mom, Dad, and sister Sharon started me on a disciplined yet loving road. My wonderful childhood included outstanding parents, friends, and education.
50 years of profession
At heart, I am a teacher. As a pastor, I would fulfill that passion, especially in writing the weekly bulletin message. Marianist educators are both brothers or priests (ordained). I accepted the invitation in the Novitiate to consider ordination. I never lost the desire to learn. After attaining my master’s degree, I continued learning, obtaining various certifications in Clinical Pastoral Education and Mission Orientation, a fellowship at Boston College’s Lonergan Institute, and a certification in Spiritual Direction.
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