Cameo Snapshots of the Past
Fr. Alphonse Begheldo, s.x.
1911-1984
A
“Family” Missionary
he
Xaverians came to the USA in 1947. Fr.
Alphonsus Begheldo was one of the original three who pioneered the U.S.
foundation.
Ten years later a well battered yellow school bus headed
westward, Milwaukee, WI bound for a new foundation in June 1957.
Now his life would be entwined with our Midwest expansion.
He had been Master of Novices. He was a person’s person. He made friends and they became his family. Family is characteristic trait of the Xaverian Missionaries. His personal letters touched many families, he showed an exceptional sensitivity for people – his co-workers in mission.
In Franklin, WI, his presence was everywhere felt. His years in Rome provided a link between the nascent foundation and early Xaverians. He spoke of “family spirit” and “family tales.” He could laugh easily, people recall his special mission presence.
It was no surprise that he left a position in Rome to pioneer the U.S. foundation. It was no surprise that he traveled far and wide in New England and the Midwest preaching parish missions. It was no surprise when at the age of 65 he left Milwaukee to go to Brazil and share his life with the poor people there.
His was a simple non-assuming presence. His years were not always health filled, but his deep rooted mission desire was ever youthful. He served where requested, as long as there was a need. He was very present wherever he was, yet detached enough to serve elsewhere when so called, even though the demands on him were paramount.
His health ceded, his spirit matured in the Lord he served, and he never forgot the people who, as family, made his journey possible. His simple, caring presence and easy smile was his way of being in “mission” with others – a part of the charism we together cherish and pass on.
(From Xaverian Mission Newsletter)