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ST. BERNARD'S SCHOOL, ALBANY

Keynote to focus on optimism

According to Rev. Anthony Chiaramonte, the storm clouds often covering the Albany Diocese throughout this rainy summer are not the only clouds throwing lives into shadow.

"One of the things that seems to be happening in society is that there is a cloud hanging over everything," he said, citing examples such as poverty, climate change and war. 

In the midst of anxiety and depression, he added, "it is hard for people to be optimistic and choose life."

"Choose Life, Every Day" will be the topic of a talk delivered by Father Chiaramonte at the annual convocation of St. Bernard's School of Theology and Ministry, to be held Sept. 9 at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Albany.

SBSTM is a graduate school of theology sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, offering degrees in pastoral studies, theological studies and divinity. 

Keynoter creds
Father Chiaramonte has been a professor at the school since its inaugural year; he is also director of the Consultation Center in Albany, a non-profit mental health center of the Diocese.

In his convocation keynote, Father Chiaramonte plans to discuss the importance of actively appreciating life's blessings. 

He explained: "People should have an attitude of gratitude for who they are, where they are, with whom they are and all that is wonderful around them."

According to the priest, the first step is achieving mindfulness, and attempting to stay grounded in the now. He said: "The more we can quiet ourselves down, be still and focus on the now, the more we come in contact with the priorities of life, and the more we can hear our God."

He suggests eliminating "distracters" such as excessive television and internet use and encourages rethinking priorities, so as to live without regret.

He cited "The Bucket List," a 2007 film about two terminally ill men attempting to accomplish everything on their "bucket lists," or lists of to-dos before they die. 

Father Chiaramonte hopes to encourage his audience to ask themselves, "What are the things we would like to do before we are unable to do them?"

Holy and whole
He stressed a life approach that is both holistic and holy, emphasizing the connection between physical, mental and spiritual aspects of life, to lead "a balanced life with foundational morality and values."

The keynoter teaches three courses at SBSTM, including the required "introduction to pastoral counseling." He has taught nearly all of the school's 150 alumni, whom he described as "wonderful people, who are enthusiastic for learning and share so much world insight with one another."

Father Chiaramonte was honored when asked to speak at this year's convocation: "I always like a challenge."

Comparing the talk to a constructing a sermon, he noted: "Any talk you give, you have to reflect. What are you trying to say, and what meaning does it have for you? What does it mean to them? It makes you engage yourself a bit more."

(The convocation will be held Sept. 9, 7:30 p.m., at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Albany. It is free and open to the public.)

(08/20/09) [[In-content Ad]]

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