These days there is much in the press about the Catholic church’s inadequate response to her structural vulnerability to predation. I do not wish to detract one bit from the seriousness of the situation or the unspeakable pain of the victims of the abuses. And maybe for those for whom Justice seems a long way off and healing even more-so, this recollection is not helpful. But I feel compelled to tell another story that is also true and, I think, important to tell at this time.
btw – click on photos to enlarge
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Stony Mountain Prison - I used to toboggan down that slope!
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When I was a lad, my father was the Protestant Chaplain at Stony Mountain Prison. The Catholic chaplain was a jolly Jesuit priest named Fr. Bob MacDougall, or… Dougie, as we called him.
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I took to Dougie the first time I met him. I was about twelve at the time. He drove a gold Trans-Am, was always fun and boisterously energetic, had a love for youth and an open door for all the kids in the neighborhood. We set up a clubhouse in his basement complete with black-light posters and a stereo. We painted the walls with our footprints and suspended fishnets from the ceiling. Dougie bought a small fridge for our space and always kept it well stocked with soft drinks and the cupboards stuffed with chips. I taught my two buddies (Fuzzy and Beats) to play guitar and bass, and we often rehearsed our band there (with me on drums)… Creedence, The Guess Who, and a bit of Ozzy if I remember right.
Once my parents took a holiday to the south of Texas in the middle of winter. My sisters and I were delighted to learn Mom and Dad had arranged for us to stay the whole two weeks at Dougie’s house. The first day coming home from school to our new temporary home, we found Fr. Bob in the livingroom sternly standing next to a huge plate of donuts bellowing, “No supper until all these are gone!!” That was the first day! It just got nutty after that.
We became great friends. I did all of Fr. Bob’s yardwork and he kept me in guitar strings. Whenever he traveled somewhere he thought I might like, I’d be invited along. He was always encouraging me to write and play my songs and often arranged for me to sing with the worship band in the folk mass at St. Ignatius Parish (Winnipeg.)
Fr. Bob eventually moved to Toronto to work with David Mainse at 100 Huntley Street. I missed him terribly. During my later teen years I tended to drift in and out of seasons of depression and Dougie somehow always seemed to know. The phone would ring, “come out to Toronto for a couple of days – I’ll pay for the flight.” I’d hop a plane and Bob and I would spend a few days walking the streets of Toronto, talking about life, faith, hopes and dreams. We’d hang out in greasy spoons and generally just enjoy easy company. Bob loved to laugh and tell stories. He also loved to pray and would endlessly recite his favorite Scriptures with more pleasure than most of us do rehearsing our favorite Simpson’s episode or Monty Python skit. I always came home filled up.
Original cassette cover for "Comfort My People" with me and Fr. Bob on front | 1989
Fast forward to 1989: Fr. Bob talked me into recording my first solo project. He even paid for the recording that was to become Comfort My People – which launched my solo career. When that project came out, Dougie took me with him (and friend Jack Kincaid) to the Philippines, Thailand and India where I found my sea-legs (so to speak) with regard to my solo concert work. It was on that trip, up in the Himalaya Mountains at a remote monastery on the border of Tibet, that I first heard the song Deep Calls to Deep which has become a staple in my concerts. And Deep Calls to Deep has since become a favorite and fortifying song to literally tens of thousands of people.
photo of Moon Over Birkenau (Auschwitz) courtesy of Carson Pue
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A few years later, Bob took me to Poland to sing for several thousand Catholic youth in Opole. While there, we visited Auschwitz – probably the most intense and impactful experience of my life which eventually resulted in the song Moon Over Birkenau.
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Jack and Fr. Bob in Ireland
It was in Ireland, again with Jack and Dougie, I remember first timidly sharing the song Burning Ember. It’s painful to remember how insecure and unsure I was of myself as a songwriter in those days. That day in Dublin they both prayed for me and encouraged me to learn to trust the gift and confidently take my place as an authentic contributor to the world as an artist. That was an extremely significant day for me.
One of the tenderest memories of my friendship with Dougie was just shortly before he died. Late one night, with failing health at a Catholic infirmary just outside of Toronto, Bob uncharacteristically pulled out a box of memorabilia from his days as tail-gunner in the Second World War. After many successful midnight sorties over Germany, his plane was shot down into the Baltic sea. He survived several days by hanging onto a flotation device before being plucked from the icy deep by some Finnish fisherman who left him to hide in a shack while his legs thawed. Bob was eventually caught by the SS and spent a couple years in a POW camp during which time all his friends and family thought he was dead. The intense stories Bob told me that night and the tears we shared constitute what can only be described as a holy or sacred gift.
Dougie was no saint. I was privy to some of the less flattering aspects of his life and character as well. But among all the other stories that need to be told right now, it feels important to tell this good story about a priest and a young boy. These days I tour the world singing songs, telling stories and plucking my guitar “for the glory of God and the good of neighbor.” And this I do, in no small measure, because a Catholic priest profoundly and appropriately cared about and invested in me during my youth and early adulthood. I’m sure my story is not unique. The church has been marrying, burying, nurturing, and consoling souls for centuries. Her flaws do not constitute her any more than mine constitute me, and I bet yours don’t constitute you either. It’s terribly important we own up to and amend for our weaknesses. But it’s also important we don’t allow them to define us – mostly because in isolation, they are impotent to tell the whole truth.
When Dougie died, Nanci and I were in transition moving from rural Manitoba back into Winnipeg. Because of phone numbers being changed, nobody yet knew how to get ahold of us and so we didn’t hear about Bob’s passing till after the funeral. The sense of loss and disorientation for me was overwhelming. I felt I had been set adrift. One night in Calgary, after a concert during which I was feeling particularly miserable, a man came up to me and said, “I don’t know what this means, but throughout your concert, a verse of scripture was burning in my heart and I think you are supposed to hear it and will know what it’s for.” The verse was Jeremiah 29:11-14: “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will find me when you seek me with all my heart. And I will be found by you…” aa I was stunned. That was Dougie’s favourite scripture. I must have heard him recite it a thousand times. It felt like God had mercifully slipped me a message so I’d know that Dougie still had my back, perhaps more now than ever.
The Dougie Stone
Months later, while on tour in southern Ontario, my manager Dave and I took a detour to find Bob’s gravesite. In typical Jesuit style, his grave was plain and uniform and totally not Bob. I don’t know what I was expecting – garlands perhaps? A stone festooned with neon and and glitter? Bob was such a character – the site seemed almost blasphemously plain. He was such a believer – the site was uninspired. I couldn’t connect with him at all there. So I set my own stone and marked his impact on my life by hijacking a Bruce Cockburn song in memory of my friend.
click song title to listen:
Closer to the Light | Bruce Cockburn
There you go
swimming deeper into mystery
here I remain
only seeing where you used to be
stared at the ceiling
’till my ears filled up with tears
barely got to know you
suddenly you’re out of hereGone from mystery into mystery
gone from daylight into night
another step deeper into darkness
closer to the lightWalked outside
summer moon was nearly down
mist on the fields
holy stillness all around
Death’s no stranger
no stranger than the life I’ve seen
still I cry
still I beg to get you back again
CD Cover for My Dinner with Bruce / Steve Bell
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The song Closer to the Light was recorded on Steve’s CD My Dinner With Bruce. To view, listen to tracks or to purchase, click HERE
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Posted on July 1st
I was amazed when you said that Fr Bob “often arranged for me to sing with the worship band in the folk mass at St. Ignatius Parish (Winnipeg.)” That is where I first heard the song “Praise the Father” which I absolutely love and when I heard it on CHVN and found out that you were the singer, I had to look you up on the internet.
Thanks for sharing your story of Fr. Bob. It is amazing to see how God can work through his people as he did with Fr. Bob and is doing now with you. Keep up the good work and may God bless you!
Posted on May 27th
Thank you for sharing your story and honouring the gifts God placed along your path…this song is especially meaninful to me at this time, so I thank you for being one of His gifts along my journey
Posted on April 29th
Great to hear something positive about the priesthood. I’ve had countless good experiences. These were men who believed in me, accepted me, encouraged me, gave me the sacraments of reconciliation and Eucharist. So many of them are being crucified today . . . .
Posted on April 29th
I knew Fr. Bob through his work on TV & met him once in Vancouver over 30 years ago. He certainly possessed the “joy of the Lord” & shared that with everyone. Thank you for sharing and bringing back such happy memories of a good man and a good priest. God bless.
Posted on April 29th
Steve thanks for that scripture verse I have never read Jeremiah 29:11-14,plus this inspirational story.your positive messages of a loving god,helps all of us that have had a hard road to travel in this life
Posted on April 29th
Wow, what a tribute from and to a wonderful “man of God!” Thank you for your own spirit of boldness, and for your sensitivity to the scandal within the Catholic Church. Satan is working overtime to try to snare as many of us as possible. Sharing your talents has touched so many Christians; you’ve certainly been a mainstay for me and my family as we continue to try to be the best Catholics we can be.
Posted on April 29th
thank you so much for sharing your beautiful memories
what a joy to have known a great soul
God bless
Posted on April 29th
I shared this blog with a class of Gr 12 students in a World Issues class this week. I hope that was ok. The goal of the class is to encourage students to think critically and make conclusions based on data gathered. Lately the class has debated the value of religion, mostly from a negative perspective. It was refreshing to hear them respond to your writings and discuss the value of meaningful relationships and the importance of positive role models in our lives.
Thanks for your message, music, and positive influence in so many lives.
Posted on April 29th
Thanks for sharing this story with us, Steve. Blessings on you as you keep ministering through story and song.
Posted on April 28th
I attended your Toronto concert last week and heard this story live. Awesome! As I listened I was struck with the fact that you should write a book. Maybe the “dry” period you talk about is preparing you to do something a bit different. Your stories are powerful. I read the Ghost Rider by Neil Peart and loved the soul journey he wrote about but the godlessness was painful in his story. Give us something different….the ways of God in the history of Steve Bell!
Posted on April 28th
Hey Steve
Long time no hear?! You are the most AMAZING CHRISTIAN I have the pleasure of knowing!! yOU `blow ME AWAY! Your storie about Fr. Bob is so amazing! You are the most UNJUDGEMENTIAL Christian I have EVER MET!!! sO MANY7 PEOPLE need to take a page out of your book!! LOVE YOU & Nancy & Family FOREVER!!! Glynis Watson (Lacombe Ab:) )
You BLOW Me Away Steve Bell xoxo
Posted on April 27th
Steve
Thank yo so much for this beautiful story. Father Bob certainly played a significant role in inspiring me to stay close to my call of evangelism. He is fondly remembered in my heart .
Blessings
George
Posted on April 27th
As much as this speaks to not condemning “Our Lady” because of the failings of some of its members, to me this just gives me so much hope for our kids – that they will be graced with the people they need when we, as parents, can’t possibly give them everything they need to develop as God has in his incredible plan for each of them. And that perhaps these people will be in the most unlikely of places from our viewpoint. I am so sorry Steve, that you missed Father Bob’s funeral. That is a huge loss, not to have shared in the communcal farewell. You really bless us every time you tell this story. Thank you for the photos! On a lighter note, the fact that my son is the drummer in a band that practices in our basement and have Metallica as their heros seems just fine if Steve Bell and Ozzy can be said in the same sentence
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Posted on April 27th
Wow, what a beautiful story!! Thank You Steve for sharing about your dear Dougie. Wish I would have known him… Your parents were obviously
extraordinary people-first of all to let you “associate” with a Roman Catholic in those days was almost a heresy!!! They were incredible Christians and truly could see beyond labels, eh!
We needed a reminder that most of our clergy were good holy people,living out their vows of Chastity. Thanks again Steve!
Posted on April 27th
Hi Steve….As I wipe away my tears I thank you for this wonderful experience you enjoyed with Father Bob. I met him at Stoney Mountain Prison when I was a Volunteer Driver taking Family Members to visit their loved ones in prison and he was just as you said. So jolly and vibrant and full of LOVE and UNDERSTANDING> I often thought of him after that period of time but didn’t know what had happened to him. THANK YOU for the update on his life. I am so sorry that you missed his funeral and I wished I had known and would have tried to attend as well. He will be missed by many many people who loved and respected him. Best Regards, Frank ( Blessed sacrament Parish & retired employee from Canadian Airlines) Keep up the GREAT Music you create and share.
Posted on April 27th
Thank-you Steve. When I was a young girl, a Jesuit priest changed my life, too. There are so many good priests in the world. Thank-you for reminding us that this is true during a time when having faith in our religious leaders can be challenging.
Posted on April 27th
When I’m having a hard day I often look to your website to see if there’s a new blog or to listen to some of your music. God used you again today to minister to my heart. Having been abused as a child and therefore susceptible to jumping to negative conclusions about a story like this, I’m glad you prefaced it as a good story. I was then able to read it in freedom and just cry and heal some more – for the past and for whatever’s bugging me today. This is how it’s supposed to be and I have some good stories like that too, praise God. Thanks.
Posted on April 27th
Steve, thanks so much for sharing this. i am not Catholic, though through marriage have heard many stories about many priests. The thing that touches me most about your story is that I think Dougie is how we are all supposed to be as Christians! I want to be like him! Not with his personality or quirks, but with mine. I want to live for others, to pour my life and heart into others and bring a unique picture of Jesus to everyone I meet, especially those who need the loving hands, heart and actions of Jesus most. I want to have a legacy like his, for of Glory of God!
I think it is so great you are sharing this to give HOPE to people who cannot get past pain with the Catholic Church. I pray that many read it and are restored to Hope–not in people, but in a God who LOVES HIS SAINTS, and that Dougie is a small picture of that.
Posted on April 25th
Thanks for this, my friend. There are probably 10,000 other good stories like this one – about priests (and other clergy and youth ministers) who so gracefully impacted kids – just waiting to be told.
In a former parish, I carried out my ministry in the shadow of a man who had molested boys over about a thirty year period, and it was as if a whole generation of people was gone from that place. The damage was almost beyond contemplation… yet you do this bit of ministry there, and someone comes back and makes their peace with things, and we all limp our way toward truth. I’m so glad Dougie’s limp didn’t make it impossible for you to fly…
Jamie
Posted on April 24th
I hate this to be the first time I’ve posted anything here. I look forward to your blog and must say I admire you above almost all other humans. No exaggeration.
I have been sick inside about the Catholic church. The problem is not with the countless wonderful priests which I know exist. The problem is with the hierarchy of the church wanting to protect their image by covering up the heinous actions of a few. In so doing they have assissted in hurting many people in unspeakable ways. There is no excuse!!! I can’t see that there is anything that can change that. The fact that there are wonderful individual Catholics doesn’t change the way I feel about their organization.
Posted on April 23rd
This is very uplifting Steve. You might not know me but he did a concert at St. Michaels, Cooks Creek when I was pastor there.thanks for the encouragement we need as priests right now. There are many good priests like Bob, more the those who have let us down. God bless you.
Fr.Ed. Kosa,omi.
Posted on April 23rd
Steve,
Once again your honesty, integrity and truth seeking soul provides me with a gift of joy and peace. Being a Catholic these days is often a cause for sadness when I see the suffering our brothers have caused others. Thank you for sharing your experience with Fr. Bob, because I too had a wonderful experience of getting to know God’s love and develop my faith from our priest who loved to minister to children…with pure love.
Certainly this does not minimize what has and is being discovered, but I think this truth must also be told. God Bless.
JoAnn
Posted on April 23rd
Steve, what a blessing you are to us Catholiics! Ever since you were “discovered” by Father Bob you have ministered to us through your music at our conventions and retreats, and esoeciallly in our homes and automobiles. Father Bob McDougal’s legacy of ecumenism through 100 Hunley Street and the Full Gospel Business Men’s Felllowship International was significant. But helping you get your ministry unnderway is probably his greatest legacy.
Posted on April 23rd
Thanks for that marvellous story – you are a master story teller. I’m surprised you didn’t mention this connection at the Calgary Catholic School District Faith Days!
Posted on April 22nd
Thank you Steve: in 1964 maybe, a young priest invested in my life. Your recollection brings alive my belief Ya-way is orcastrating our pathes. Michael
Posted on April 22nd
Hi Steve,
As a guy brought up in Catholic home with a Catholic education from K- to gr12, I found this story heartwarming. I’ve known lots of priests,several had an impact on me for good, including my uncle – after whom I was named. Recently I had the privilege of taking communion at Catholic mass ( I, who am supposedly “Reformed”) and these were the words imparted to me: “Lord I am unworthy, only say the word and I will be healed”. Now I’ve heard all sorts of creative spins on the meaning of communion, including some from a recent stint at Regent College, but that one simple sentence cut through everything I’ve known. There is much we can learn from each other, especially in relationship, like you had with Father Bob. Gotta love the donuts threat!
Thanks
Posted on April 22nd
Thanks for this story of a great relationship, Steve. Your timing and motivation are perfect. Continued blessings on your ministry!
Posted on April 22nd
What a lovely story! I am a Catholic and am priviledged to know two Catholic priests. One has become a best friend and the other has taken the place of my father who passed away 5 years ago. They are a constant feature in my family’s lives and a good role model to my two teenaged sons.
Thanks Steve for sharing your story with us and letting me share mine. Yes, there are bad people in this world but there are a lot of good ones too.
Posted on April 22nd
Thank you for the story, well told and moving. I’ve heard you referring to Fr Bob but never with such detail and depth. And I never realized my own “connection” with him until this moment. In 1988 at an open house of the Grain of Wheat house of prayer (Winnipeg) one person who dropped by was Sr Laurie from 401 Aulneau where many of us spent time at the Sinai house of prayer. She brought a small but unforgettable gift, an audiotape – Harmony II: Instrumental Sound Relaxation by no other than Fr. Bob McDougall! This album of meditative music has been a favourite and has nurtured me over the years.
Steve, on another note, I affirm your gift of writing, among all your other gifts, and am waiting for the book you’ll someday be writing.
Also waiting for the Eastertide Concert in Wpg next spring. irene
Posted on April 22nd
I have a feeling that your beloved Fr. Bob would be appalled at the alleged conduct and cover-up by his church as we all should be. However, it is not limited to the Catholic church as there are far too many instances in Protestant churches where pastors are passed forward to other churches without warnings about their sexual misconduct. God protect our children!
Posted on April 22nd
Steve
Steve
Stoney Bob never failed to inspire or challenge me to the greater glory of God. Embarrassment was something that he seemingly didn’t experience or recognize, at least related to praising the Lord. His lack of inhibition allowed me to be less inhibited in my relationship with my God.
Loved the memories and photos.
Thanks
Posted on April 22nd
Dear Steve -
What a wonderful tribute to Dougie (who was
also known to as Stony Mountain Bob)!
I was Pastor for ten years at St. Ignatius Church in Winnipeg, and you did a couple of concerts there during those years.
I’m now doing spiritual direction at Loyola House, Ignatius Jesuit Centre of Guelph; I’m situated right across from the Jesuit Cemetery, where the Dougie Stone lies. Next time you come out to look at dougie’s grave, drop in–or better still, come and make a retreat.
Peace, and all the blessings of Easter on you, your family, and your ministry.
Eric
Posted on April 22nd
Thank you Steve – I listen to your songs all the time, after I was at one of your concerts in Calgary many years ago.
You certainly are a consumate story teller – and this story is so right for our times.
Thank you again – and to quote from one of your songs –
“May the Lord bless and keep you, may His face shine upon you – - -”
God Bless,
Mike (V)
Posted on April 22nd
probably my favorite post of your I have ever read. Thanks for sharing.
I am currently reading for a second time one of my all time favorite novels. Moris West’s (Australian Catholic novelist) classic novel The Devils Avocate. It is one of the most powerful books I have ever come across about the thin veil between sinner and saint, and all about grace that permearts.
We are all sinners, and as a serving pastor I am much more aware of my inadequacies than my gifts. The longer I serve I am realizing more and more it is my weaknesses and llimitation (even sin) that seem to remind me maybe I am where God wants me to be. And there is no great gift I can give than to share a little of that grace that I have and continue to so richly experience.
Jeff
Posted on April 22nd
Thank you SO much for sharing this touching story. It made me shed a few tears and reminded me how essential mentors like Dougie are in children’s lives. There must be thousands of meaninful stories about priests and we need to be mindful that we don’t allow the bad situations to cloud over the good.
I still think that the Pope needs to address the issue of predation however, particularly in the areas where the Church is too powerful and the people too poor to deal with it.
Posted on April 22nd
The passage from Jeremiah spoke to me. Steve, today you were an instrument of the Holy Spirit – thank you for following your heart.
Posted on April 22nd
Thank you Steve!
As a Catholic priest myself, I needed to read this at this time. You and I met on a winter-spring day in a church near Napanee, Ontario after a concert you gave. We exchanged a few words. I had my Roman collar on, and I told you that I use your songs from time to time during homilies, or as prayerful refrains after communion. I wanted you to know that I am just as appalled as everybody else about the way My Church handled the scandals. But I do know that along with some Holy Thursday moments (where nearly everybody ran away for cover after Jesus’ arrest in Gethsemani, the Church has Pentecost moments where the same cowards become today’s Spirit-filled witnesses. After reading your story, it seems that Dougie was one of them.
God bless you!
Father Stéphane Pouliot, Frankford, Ontario
Posted on April 22nd
Beautiful story, Steve! Thanks so much.
Posted on April 22nd
[...] About a Catholic Priest and a Young Boy [...]
Posted on April 22nd
Thanks, Steve for this heart-warming story. And thanks for telling it now.
Posted on April 22nd
Thank you Steve for sharing your story. It is inspiring to hear the “good” during these difficult times the Catholic Church is experiencing. I spent 30 years as a school secretary for Calgary Separate School Board and have had the pleasant opportunity of experiecing your performancesc at some of our Faith Day celebrations. I attend as many of your concerts as I can in Calgary. I am retired (3 years) and travel. Your music and storytelling is inspiring and important especially for our young people. Again, thank you for sharing your story. I look forward to your next performance in Calgary.
Dianne Poland
Posted on April 21st
Very heart warming story. Sounds a bit o’ Irish too.
Posted on April 21st
It’s really good to hear the other side. I knew you had a relationship with him, but I didn’t know it went that deep. I’m glad that you listened to him and followed your heart. Though our paths cross infrequently., I think of you often and pray for you. God Bless you, Steve
Posted on April 21st
Thank you for sharing this wonderful story.
I admire your parents – even though they were Baptist they were not so narrow as to think that only their brand of Christianity was the right one, nor did they try to shelter their children from those whose faith was expressed in a different manner. It is a wonderful gift they gave you.
Posted on April 21st
…And my beloved Pastor, Stuart McKnight. His excellent teaching has been the security for me in years of distress. I was able to testify one weekend that the Alliance Church has been more my home this past 6 years than the places I actually lived in. His messages sustain me just as your songs of worship do.
Posted on April 21st
Thank you for this message Steve. Teachers, mentors, the life-makers.
The scripture “I know the plans…” is the base for a Debbie Fortnum song, so my knowing- the- song- by- heart process perked up.
I am grieving today. I am a passionate photographer. Saturday morning I woke to find a spider web of floaters with black dots (hemorrhage) in my left eye, posterior vitreous detachment it is called. Had I also been seeing lightning flashes I would have gone to Emerg and into retinal surgery. I was seen first thing Monday morning by the eye specialist who said there was another issue, that pigmentation is abnormal, that I need to see a Retinologist, a trip to Vancouver. Retinitis Pigmentosa is advancing. My point is that today I needed to see that particular scripture, my faith is strong. I am comforting my family and friends who feel awful for me! I still have my right eye, which is OK. My beloved Creator urged me this last few weeks to organize my collection of family photos.
Spring is early and full of delights here, I was up before the sun came up over the hills today to walk to visit an urban field to photograph tiny white flowers called Spring Beauties. I will download them later and send the best to you .My Creator continues to have plans to give me a hope and a future. I am never alone.
Bless you, my favourite all time singer.
Posted on April 21st
Another message here…
on the “sex-abuse” front, I’ll let you know that I was a Catholic seminarian in the early 90’s, who completed my theology degree, but took a little extra time and eventually decided to remain a layman. Over my years in the seminary and the years which followed, I made contact with two to three hundred priests . In the 20 year period since I first entered the seminary, I have had about 13 or 14 people who shared with me that they were sexually abused as children. None of them were abused by a priest. Some were abused by their fathers, others a stepfather, others by an older cousin, others by a babysitter (who was the son of a Protestant clergyman).
I personally know of only one victim who was abused by a priest. This victim was 21 and a seminarian at the time. The priest is still a priest but was pulled out of parish life immediately, and is now doing paperperwork with no public contact (other than the few adults he has towork with. That was about 6 years ago. The above priest represents one of about five or six priests I know as acquaintances who were “retired” or defrocked. I never met or knew any of their victims. Two were ordained in the 50’s, two in the 60’s, one in the 70’s, one in the 80’s and one in the 90’s. Only one of these men appeared particularly effeminate.
…I shared the above numbers with a married couple who worked out of a retreat centre in New Brunswick from the late 90’s to year 2008. I made the comment that, “if you go back three generations, you’re likely going to find sex abuse in your own family”. The wife said, “not three generations, two generations.” The wife shared that they heard stories of sex-abuse with such frequency it seemed as if a broken record. Only a fraction of those who confessed being abuse-victims were actually victimized by priests.
As a lifelong Catholic, I’ll close by saying that I know a few priests who cause me grief because they seem to “play it safe” with tepid homilies (usually a clue to one’s prayer life).
I’ve met several solid priests, however, and a few who fit the category of saint.
Posted on April 21st
I really enjoyed your story about Fr. Bob MacDougall. After hearing about him regularly through a nice senior citzen evangelical/United Church lady who was a Huntley St. supporter, and who sat beside my at work…I decided to listen to his testimony one night at a prayer group in Toronto – Annunciation of the Lord (Catholic) parish. Years later, the Companions of the Cross (who I was a seminarian with) took over his “Food for Life” TV ministry. He certainly must have believed powerfully in the grace of God…since…aware of his weakness he went on to minister to thousands, and was a bridge between Protestants and Catholics. As a Catholic, you know we believe in asking some of our “brothers & sisters up there” for help in some areas they had a penchant for…I forgot his grace in the area of modern social communication (TV/Internet)…
…I am thrilled and somewhat awed to hear that he helped launch your career. I really believe a lot of the nitty gritty conversion of our culture will take place through the arts. I pray to bring joy to people through music and wholesome humour (I write some humour songs & praise and worship…mainly for small parties & small prayer assemblies/groups…I was recently “censored” for writing a song about my department at work…it was clean…but “had the chance to be misunderstood (politics!)…I was advised to “not use real names”…I’ll try and re-record it….my siblings were upset…they thought the whole floor should hear it…but they don’t work where I do!
For the record, I’m an acquaintance of Steve Schellenberg, who I believe you know and is now the father of two.
God bless your music and ministry.
ps. I saw your Ottawa Symphony concert, and brought two friends along…they were impressed with your music
Posted on April 21st
Oh Steve, another blessing. Sometimes I feel terribly selfish and indulgent having all these blessings flow from God through you and to me/us. Thanks, friend, for taking the time to share these sweet thoughts!
Posted on April 21st
The comments posted earlier today saying…………”A heartening tale of relationship for sure, and one I am also sure is more the rule rather than the exception. I have a similar tale with an Anglican priest in my youth. Brief epiphanies occur very often in the most casual encounters attesting to the subtle ways in which God insinuates Himself into our lives. We all know that the Catholic church is filled with men and women of Godly character and no one wants to say otherwise, unless their agenda stems from bias and hatred and / or some deeper hurt. The problem the church faces today, however, stems less from the commission of sin and more so from the lack of taking ownership and making at least a true and contrite confession. Until the Catholic church faces these issues head on and try to make reparation and systemic changes they will continue to face the wrath of the press and the world at large.”……………….Not sure who wrote them – check how you post them please.
were NOT the comments I made about this story. What I DID say was that as Vocation Sunday approaches this week – this story made me appreciate the value of Catholic Priests and the real service to us they are
Posted on April 21st
Thank you for sharing this with us. I too have had clergy in my life that have impacted me in major ways, some through positive experiences and some through negative experiences, but all to the Glory of God, they have helped shape the person I am today. Largely because of the clergy in my life I listened to God’s call and I am now after 35 years avoiding it, following a call to ordained ministry. I also owe you a debt of gratitude for your music has always helped draw me out of the doldrums when I am hurting and brought my eyes to focus on the One who gives us all strength. And I turn to your music to warm me when I need some Holy Spirit power. Praise God that you have followed His call. I and my family have heard you in concert a few times when you come to New York and we can’t wait for your return. I love that verse too, and I have also found comfort in Romans 8:28. Peace, Randy
Posted on April 21st
I, too, had the privilege of knowing Father Bob, and while I didn’t know him as intimately as you, as a teen I enjoyed his warm hugs on many occasions. He gave so much love, you couldn’t help but love him back. Thank you for sharing this lovely story.
Posted on April 21st
I never get tired of your “Father Bob story” Steve. Thanks for sharing it so appropriately once again!
Posted on April 21st
Thanks for this, Steve. I appreciate how you introduced this recollection.
Three and a half years ago I began having private conversations with a Ukrainian Catholic priest which led to my decision to be received into communion with the Ukrainian Catholic Church this coming Pentecost/Trinity Sunday. One day we were talking about music and Fr. Michael mentioned Steve Bell. I told him that a Roman Catholic priest was instrumental in the production of his first solo recording and that I still have the cassette of Comfort My People with Steve and Fr. Bob on the cover, that Steve’s Dad had been a chaplain at Stony and that’s how he knew him. Fr. Michael lit up: “Fr. Bob McDougall?!” It turned out that Fr. Bob had been a family friend and he had equally rich memories.
Posted on April 21st
Thank you so much for posting this! I too have only good memories about the many priests in my childhood; they organized Sunday picnics for the church kids, came over for dinner, and instilled in us that even a holy man can be fun! I attended a Catholic school with priests and nuns as teachers who were always encouraging and were able to tie in faith values with education.
Posted on April 21st
My husband & I met Fr Bob in the years he was involved with Huntley St. We were not Catholics but were greatly encouraged by His deep, deep love for the Lord. We still have some of his testimonies on tape, and many fond memories of His display of the Father’s heart for all of His creation, regardless of their pasts. He only wanted others to know of God’s magnificent grace and mercy, as he himself had received. Wonderful to read your testimony, Steve.
Posted on April 21st
What a beautiful story and message. If we were only defined by our faults & our sins, we would all be hopeless.
Posted on April 21st
I too remember Father Bob and how funny he was. It was the first time I felt that clergy were real people.
The clubhouse was great and I would love to here you Fuzzy and Beats play again.
Steve keep him with you always, I think he needed you as much as you ever needed him.
Bright
Blessings
Kimberley Denner-Welch
Posted on April 21st
A heartening tale of relationship for sure, and one I am also sure is more the rule rather than the exception. I have a similar tale with an Anglican priest in my youth. Brief epiphanies occur very often in the most casual encounters attesting to the subtle ways in which God insinuates Himself into our lives. We all know that the Catholic church is filled with men and women of Godly character and no one wants to say otherwise, unless their agenda stems from bias and hatred and / or some deeper hurt. The problem the church faces today, however, stems less from the commission of sin and more so from the lack of taking ownership and making at least a true and contrite confession. Until the Catholic church faces these issues head on and try to make reparation and systemic changes they will continue to face the wrath of the press and the world at large.
Posted on April 21st
I have heard you mention him at your concerts in Ottawa before. What a wonderful story to read as I prepare my homily for this Sunday – “Vocation Sunday” in the Catholic church. It reminds me of the real heart of Jesus calling us all to serve and follow HIM and his example.
Posted on April 21st
ps…I think I’ll use the donut trick on my grandsons when I keep them this weekend! Priceless!
Posted on April 21st
Inspiring! How fortunate you were to have him all those years; God’s gift to you, I suppose, – and to US who now enjoy Steve Bell’s music and writings which are evidence of Father MacDougall’s impact and influence on you!
Funny that someone else already commented on this Steve Bell quote: “The church has been marrying, burying, nurturing, and consoling souls for centuries. Her flaws do not constitute her any more than mine constitute me, and I bet yours don’t constitute you either. It’s terribly important we own up to and amend for our weaknesses. But it’s also important we don’t allow them to define us – mostly because in isolation, they are impotent to tell the whole truth.” WELL PUT!! Thank you, Steve. Julie in Texas
Posted on April 21st
Thank you Steve for such a wonderful timely memory. Our world is so quick to accentuate the negative and then place a defining blanket over it making recovery so hard. Agreed we cannot “smooth over” the transgressions and abandon the victums but your approach to a more balanced perspective is a divine movement. Coming from a strict evangelical background I have found incredible solace in learning from many gifted RC authors like Henri Nouwne and Richard Rohr. Thanks again for your thoughtfulness.
Posted on April 21st
Hello Steve:
I am a chaplain at the brandonRHA and have very much appreciated your Solace CD…have passed it on to others and listened to it often in my office.
I appreciate your sharing of the story of your friendship with Dougie. Working in the interfaith context has brought so much belssing into my life and work and I will ever be grateful for the grace of God through others who God has used to shape my life. One of the founders of CAPPE (The canadian Association for Pastoral Practice and Education) , Anton Boisen,referred to “the living human document” …your story fits I think.
In any case…blessings on youand yours, and your work.
Joanne
Posted on April 21st
Thank you for sharing this story, Steve. It is always to encouraging to hear stories of how God uses us in each other’s lives and, in particular, how the Spirit moves in those willing to listen to enable us to support and build into each other.
Posted on April 21st
… thank you for sharing this story … which is so important – essential to be heard .
And thank you for your music which left such a great impact in my life, when I first met Jesus in Winnipeg in 1992.
Posted on April 21st
Thanks for telling one of the redemptive stories. I’m very close to a victim of sexual abuse by a priest, and yet, I find myself wishing that we, and that the media told more of the redemptive and hopeful stories. Because that’s what the church is really supposed to be all about, isn’t it?
Posted on April 21st
Thank you for sharing this remarkable story. I particularly appreciated this quote:
“The church has been marrying, burying, nurturing, and consoling souls for centuries. Her flaws do not constitute her any more than mine constitute me, and I bet yours don’t constitute you either. It’s terribly important we own up to and amend for our weaknesses. But it’s also important we don’t allow them to define us – mostly because in isolation, they are impotent to tell the whole truth.”
Thank you, again.
Posted on April 21st
A very moving story and such a beautiful song and dedication to Bob!
I used to watch Bob & his team weekly on his television program and it spoke volumes to my spirit, deepening a hunger in me to know Jesus like he did and to have that same intense joy he had for the Lord!
His relationship was real and it glowed from ear to ear with that big bright smile of his, and that’s what I wanted, not the religious side of Christianity I saw so much of that made my soul yawn with disinterest & disappointment!
Bob’s joyous and passionate personality for the Lord impacted my life in many ways during that time period, so I can just imagine how much more he must have impacted your life, Steve, having known him in such a special personal way! What a blessing handed to you and passed down from Bob to you, and to all God puts in your path now!
I grew up going to a Catholic church and it was there that I came to know about the Lord and what He did for me on the cross. And it was there at a very young age that God planted a verse in me (ps42:1) and a strong desire within me to know Him deeply and personally, and to follow His ways over mine! He later on used people like Fr. Bob MacDougall to deepen that hunger within me for Him!!!
It’s sad to hear of all the negative things happening within the Catholic church and how that’s the only focus given it in the media, and not the good that’s been done within it. But honestly, there’s no religion that is perfect, just as there is no church or man that will not disappoint us some of the time, which is why Christ came on our behalf!!!!
These attacks against the Catholic church (or any church) is just another way the enemy is trying so desperately to scatter the people and drive them away from God and church and anything to do with religion!!!
Posted on April 21st
Just when I am overwhelmed by feelings of how disappointing people really are, you breathe fresh air into our lives.
We need reminding that there are indeed inspiring, reliable and God-fearing humans living in this topsy-turvy world.
Thank you.
Posted on April 21st
Steve,
How encouraging. I fear that the taboo that exists when church leaders are associated with young men has prevented many stories like yours from occurring. Thank you for sharing.
Posted on April 21st
Thank you for sharing this account of a wonderul friendship with a priest. I am happy to see a story told which lends balance to the others in the news. Teaching, the priesthood, hockey and soccer programs are undertakings which put adults in direct contact with children. I believe abusers of children gravitate toward these undertakings for this reason. However, every priest, every teacher, every hockey coach should not be discriminated against because of the actions of a few.