Meet Br. Frank

The Midwest District interviewed Br. Frank Carr, a Senior Brother serving as the Chaplain for St. Mary’s University Athletics (Winona, Minnesota). Br. Frank shares how the Brothers impacted him in high school and beyond.

Tell us about a Brother mentor in your life.

I was fortunate to have the Brothers in high school – at Holy Name in Escanaba, MI. Two who took an interest in me and were mentors were Brothers Jude Denis Murphy and Luke of Jesus Rost. They encouraged me to consider the Brothers, and after my Dad finally okayed my decision to enter, I came to St. Yon’s Novitiate in Winona. That was in 1962, which means I have been a Brother for 60 years.

Tell us about some of the Brothers who inspired you.

Another Brother who had a great influence on me was Brother Damian Steger, who was president of Saint Mary’s Press for many years. He was committed to the projects SMP prepared for the young people in our schools and set the stage for the changes now underway to research the needs of young people and respond to those needs. These three, and many other Brothers, were inspirations for me and helped me to understand my role in the lives of our students.

As a retired Brother how do you continue to live out your vocation?

Now retired, I am happy to be involved with athletics at Saint Mary’s University. I want them to know the Brothers and what we stand for, and I think my presence among them helps them to recognize that. I have the time, so I attend as many games in all sports and encourage the student-athletes not only in their sports but also in taking their studies seriously.

What does the Kabara Challenge mean to you?

I am so grateful to Betty Kabara for her generosity. Her gifts allow the Senior Brothers to do special projects and enjoy unique retirement activities that keep us active and present in the lives of students and our fellow Lasallians who work with them. Thank you, Betty.