Fr. Richardson Shares his Remembrances

The DES members were delighted to hear Fr. Richardson share some of his insights and remembrances of his years at DePaul. He noted DePaul’s history is often spoken of in the context of building acquisitions, student head count, academic offerings, etc., but the true history of DePaul is in its people and their insights, risk-taking and commitment to the institution.

He spoke of  McCormick Seminary and how he had worked very closely with the Seminary administration to encourage them to keep their institution in Lincoln Park. At the time, little did he know that when McCormick Seminary moved to Hyde Park, DePaul would purchase a large portion of their property. He also noted he had very heartily encouraged the city to put the Chicago Public Library in the old Goldblatt building and when that didn't come to pass, he found DePaul looking to purchase the building. He shared the difficulties of navigating with the city, federal government, and the University regarding the acquisition of the building we now call DePaul Center. He told us he has titled his memoirs “The Playful Hand of God” and it has recently been sent to the printer.

In addition, he recounted how much he loved the experience he had while in Kenya absorbing its culture and traditions. Although he was in his 70s when he left for Kenya, he was re-energized by the opportunity to teach young men. He told of writing many of the works from which the seminarians studied.

Fr. Richardson spoke of the work he is doing now assisting with the Capital Campaign and said he is looking forward to the possibility of teaching at DePaul in the fall.

Those in attendance at the May 20 DES Luncheon enjoyed hearing Father so positive and full of life.

Photo: David Sims