Fr. Norbert Georges, O.P. and his niece Margaret Daze, in front of St. Vincent Ferrer Priory, New York City (June 1968)
Margaret Daze, a longtime, generous friend, shares fond memories of her uncle, Father Norbert Georges, O.P., and her hopes for the upcoming novitiate class.
Why I Support the Dominicans
By Margaret Daze
My husband and I highly admire the young men who are entering the Dominican Order. Gifted as they are with intelligence and persuasiveness I am eager to see them preach to the young and newly educated: the next generation of thinkers and doers.
The Order of Preachers’ presence on college campuses allows the Friars to make first contact with students who are hungering for the Truth. Providing answers for these students is a challenge that I am confident the Friars can handle.
I have witnessed the preaching charism of the Friars first hand and close to home. In 1923, my uncle, Father Norbert Georges, O.P., was ordained a priest in the Province of Saint Joseph. And far from being the last of his kind, the upcoming class of novices will be ordained and begin preaching about 100 years after he was ordained. They’re ready to carry on the torch of the Gospel.
I still fondly remember my evening visits with Father “Ferdie” (as my family nicknamed him) at Saint Vincent Ferrer Church in New York City. I was often surprised to find him praying the Rosary on his knees in front of the tabernacle. He profoundly impacted my own life and I am in admiration of his tireless work promoting the canonization of Saint Martin de Porres. He crisscrossed the country and the globe sharing “Brother Martin’s” story of humble service to those in need.
Preachers like my uncle are needed today more than ever. Otherwise we lose. The young men entering the Novitiate are giving their lives to serve Christ. Without our support, what will happen to their vocations? Our gift enables them to receive an education so that they will preach effectively. We benefit from their preaching. It’s for the good of all to help sustain them with our financial support. The Friars give me great hope for our culture.