Fr. Charlie Bolser, CSV always has something interesting to say, from everyday chats to homilies at Mass, and it almost always has something to do with Creation and rebirth – now, he’s collected many of his thoughts in a new book called Our Shared Journey: Creation in Process.
A closer look at the book cover design.
The book collects several of Fr. Charlie’s essays and reflections into a paperback complete with a picture of the cosmos on its cover. “I’ve always reflected on evolution and the ebbs and flows of Creation with the universe, time, and constant change. Life and humanity are always changing, never the same,” Fr. Charlie said. “Some people reject that idea and try to hang on to the past. The Gospel tells us that death and resurrection are real. The old dies, and the new is born.”
Fr. Charlie had found himself writing even more since retirement, and as stories, songs, and memories seeded new reflections, he decided to try publishing a book. He reached out to his sister, Colleen Vondebur – who he credits on the cover as his editor – and leaned on her organizational skills. With her diligent work, including enlisting an extra editor and a friend who works in printing, Fr. Charlie’s work became a book.
While most of the pieces are short, punchy reflections on anything from Bible passages to the Chicago White Sox, two of the entries are lengthy essays: one on Creation itself and another on the importance of Catholic education. “Why are we here as Viatorians at our schools? How do we help young people become adults who are aware of their giftedness and their ability to take responsibility for the world and improve it?” Fr. Charlie asks – and answers in his essay.
When it comes to the mix of other reflections, Fr. Charlie hopes readers might skip around and find something that resonates with especially with them or meets them perfectly in a moment. “It’s not meant to please everyone in every way. I hope people do read it and think about it. The old teacher in me comes out!” Fr. Charlie said.
Fr. Charlie has given the first few copies away to Viatorians around Arlington Heights and to some of the staff at the Province Center and high school. He hopes to donate some copies to Viatorian fundraisers, sign notes to prospective readers, and hopefully raise a few dollars for the students he had dedicated his life to serving.
In over 61 years of religious life, Fr. Charlie has served in a range of roles, including as President and Chaplain of Saint Viator High School and Provincial Superior of the Province of Chicago. You can send notes – or requests for autographed copies – to the author at cbolser@msn.com.
Congrats, Fr. Charlie!