Cameo Snapshots of the Past
Fr. J. Henry Frassineti, s.x.
1904-1983
Trailblazer
for Christ
he
Xaverian foundation in America was the dream of Fr. Henry Frassineti, a
missionary for all times and seasons. He
left his heart in Lu-shan, China, in 1941.
His homeward journey was impeded by the war and the American Foundation
was born. He defined himself as a “trailblazer” and that he was.
He alone led the way, set the path, and left his U.S. dreams for others to fulfill. He pioneered an opening in London, worked in Indonesia and Japan, established our Mission Office in San Jose, CA, and built a student Hostel in Taiwan.
He had a dream. Flowers and trees won his affection and care. His Marian devotion gave birth to the Fatima Shrine, Calvary scene, and Holliston property landscaping (MA).
He cherished memories of his Lu-shan, China mission. He challenged old ways and pioneered new methods. He believed in youth, and viewed the impossible as possible.
Age diminished his dream filled mind, and slowed his speech. His concerns were love driven, and ever mission inspired.
Trailblazer, yes! That was his gift to those who followed his lead. Mission focus is fixed on other shores, new hopes, untried possibilities.
His Holliston dream celebrated fifty years. The past 50 years mirror what has been since he arrived at the “abandoned farm” of Holliston, MA.
Mission is timeless. It moves ever forward. The trailblazing spirit of Fr. Henry and mission continues in all who dream “mission dreams” and follow Christ, Missionary of the Father.
(From Xaverian Mission Newsletter)