Scholarship named for brother-priests

Two brothers, both priests of the Albany Diocese, have been honored with a scholarship in their names to Christian Brothers Academy in Albany.

Revs. James and Anthony Gulley each marked a notable anniversary in 2006: Father James, pastor of St. Mary's parish in Amsterdam, had been a priest for 25 years; his brother, 50 years. Father Anthony is retired and also lives in Amsterdam.

Both priests had previously been affiliated with CBA. Father Anthony served as chaplain there for eight years; before Father James entered the priesthood, he taught at the school for 24 years as a Christian Brother.

CBA's board of directors wanted to honor the pair for their service and anniversaries of ordination.

"We came up with the idea of an endowed scholarship for a student," said Terry Brennan, an alumnus and chair of the scholarship committee. "Because the scholarship is in [the Gulleys'] honor, we wanted them to set the criteria for awarding it."

Father James told The Evangelist: "I loved working with the students at CBA. When they notified us about the scholarship, we were both happy and proud that it would help the Christian Brothers carry on the tradition of their founder, St. John Baptist de la Salle."

The scholarship goes to a CBA sophomore in financial need who is service-oriented and has academic, spiritual and athletic ability.

"He doesn't have to be a top student; in fact, we aren't looking for a top student. We'd rather have a student who will work toward his potential," Mr. Brennan said.

The committee sent letters to potential donors, amassing $63,000. Their eventual goal for the scholarship fund is $125,000.

"Many people remember with fondness these two wonderful men who exemplify the priesthood," Mr. Brennan noted. "Their dedication and service are accomplishments worth honoring."

Said Father James: "CBA has a wonderful reputation for forming responsible, well-educated young men. Giving this opportunity for a fine education to a young man in financial need is one way of seeing that this tradition continues."

(Father Anthony also taught philosophy at The College of Saint Rose in Albany for 44 years. Father James taught in various schools in New York and Michigan. On June 22, 2 p.m., a liturgy will be celebrated at St. Mary's Church in Amsterdam for donors and recipients of the scholarship. To donate to the fund, contact CBA's development office at 452-9809; for information on the school, go to www.cbaalbany.org.)

(06/05/08) [[In-content Ad]]