Cameo Snapshots of the Past
Fr. Edward Zannoni, s.x.
1930-1988
Welcome
… Service
n
1967 the Wayne, N.J. house was opened. Xaverians
have the Lord’s provident blessings. The
house of Wayne was a “gift” from the Kearns family – providential.
The house became our Provincial headquarters, a welcome spot for
returning missionaries, and the temporary home of veteran and departing
missionaries.
Fr. Ed came to America, left his native Italy in 1954, and was ordained in Milwaukee in 1959. Rector of Holliston’s Seminary and Provincial and Treasurer. Mission was a top priority in his life. He recognized his ability and gave his all for mission even if that demanded that his “dream” to leave for overseas mission would be delayed. His mission work was steady, omnipresent and often unseen. He established our mission procure, responded to the endless requests of those Xaverians in direct mission service everywhere. His characteristic gift was “hospitality” and he always found a way to accede to the demands made of him.
“Love” is the motivating force of a missionary. That “divinely inspired virtue” ordinarily leads to mission departure. Fr. Edward’s departure was from his homeland. His 100% dedication to the mission cause which he espoused here in the USA provided needed and priceless service.
He was a missionary wherever he was, and whenever requested, for whatever service was made of him. Mission lands and mission needs provided the plasma of his being. His heart failed him at a young age in 1988, but his mission spirit sustained his every step even during his illness. He was all for mission, at home, and wherever there was a need. This “welcoming” and “willing spirit” is part of the mission charism we prize and share.
(From Xaverian Mission Newsletter)