Nine devoted men stood up in front of mass this past Sunday to renew their vows as Christian Brothers, and help Iona celebrate its origins as the community starts Heritage Week. The theme of the week is Brothers Without Borders, so it seems fitting that the week started with celebrating Iona’s very own Brothers.

The mass began just as any other as Fr. Frank Dixon gives the opening prayer. He realized that he had given the prayer from Saturday’s mass and made a point to say the correct one. At the end of the mass he jovially explained that the opening was particularly special for the day.

Adjunct Instructor of Religious Studies Br. Robert Durning had helped translate the prayer of Sunday’s mass, and as it was a celebration for the Brothers it was too great of a coincidence to pass up.

This shows just a smidgen of the dedication that these Brothers have had throughout their lives. Br. Denis Wright was celebrating his 75th year of service on Sunday. He is still actively involved in the community, volunteering his time in the Rudin Center for students.

Vice President for Advancement Br. James MacDonald, gave a reflection on his life as a Brother and shared an inspiring message to think about as Heritage Week continues: The traditions of the community do not exist without remembering one’s foundation, since Iona would not be here without its heritage.

After hearing MacDonald’s reflection, the Brothers of Iona’s community stood together to reaffirm their vows as Christian Brothers.

“It’s a wonderful experience to be up there with the other brothers and the tradition of Iona,” said Br. Dennis Gunn.

The church filled with applause after the brothers recommitted themselves. After 72 years, the college is still benefiting from the service of the Brothers.