Dear Editor:
Growing up in Jersey City, I had two brothers Billy and Seany. When I heard that word brother, I thought of them. When I made my way to Hudson Catholic, that all changed.
Five Christian Brothers allowed me to move on in life with a lucky seven. Brother Kevin Stanton was my principal. Back then, he didn’t think it was funny that his nickname among the boys was Batman. But he really did look like Adam West. Years later, even he can get a chuckle out of it. He was strict. On occasion I would have to take that long walk down the hallway to the principal’s office. I recall it not being any fun, but he was fair. Even if I didn’t think I was wrong, he’d still make sure I was and the mop stick would mean that I was mopping the cafeteria or doing something less fun. He was right. Brother Kevin was always right. He also taught me what forgiveness means.
Brother Tim Ahern it seems you can catch in a sweat suit more often than in a collar. He was and is the “cool” Brother. When he stops in the locker room before a game to say a prayer, he is a coach.
Brother Larry Dempsey is a character. He fit right in the Jersey City school, the day he landed. He is a hilarious man that made going to class an event. He has a nickname for every student. I became “Tobacco Road” because my name started with a wad, like a wad of tobacco. Brother Larry is the type of crazy you grow to love.
Brother Raymond Murphy has the softest spirit of anyone I have ever known. He is warm, caring and a good teacher. Once you are a student of Brother Ray, you’re always a student of Brother Ray. I can see his kind smile now.
Brother Patrick King is Brother Pat. He is stern and serious; “don’t be late for home room.” When I was at Hudson, I was scared of him. Today, I still am. I’m only kidding. With him, there are no excuses though you are human. People do need a chance to succeed. You can detect his faith that a chance will come along. It is on you to take it. No excuses.
I’m happy everyday that I have two brothers. I have been blessed to get five more. I’m not the only one and the Christian Brothers I mention are not the only ones that have provided brotherhood to students praying for a chance. Many will miss them as they exit our Jersey City community but will always remain a part of us.
“St. John the Baptist De LaSalle pray for us. Live Jesus in our hearts forever.”
James Francis Waddleton
Hudson Catholic ‘89