Supplements

CURRENT ISSUE

oblate brother continues quiet ministry

Story and photo by LIZ QUIRIN
Messenger editor

An Oblate brother who would rather stay out of the limelight, Brother Ed Driggens is celebrating his 50th anniversary as a religious brother.

Born and raised in Iowa, he talked to a friend who had “tried” the Oblates and decided to return for another look. Ed decided he would go along too.

While the first few months were tough because he was homesick, he eventually found his home and his heart with the Oblates.

“It just seemed to click,” he said, and he professed his first vows in 1961.
For the past 15 years Brother Ed has been working at Catholic Urban Programs in East St. Louis, filling in when and where he is needed.

His friend, Oblate Father Tom Singer suggested that CUP might be a good fit for him.

“I like working at CUP,” he said, adding that Joe Hubbard and Gerry Hasenstab, “have been helpful in many ways.”
On one particular day, Brother Ed was taking supplies to Cosgrove’s Kitchen in East St. Louis and then bringing Ceola Davis some fresh fruit.

It was one of those days that was “more than hot,” and Ceola was tremendously grateful for the fruit.
It’s making sure that people are managing in the heat of summer and the cold of winter, and continuing to do a “few things” at King’s House retreat center in Belleville that give depth and meaning to Brother Ed’s commitment to the Oblates.

“So far it has been a great experience,” he said. “People are always grateful for help.”
Having known Ceola for some time and the work that she does for CUP, Brother Ed said: “It’s a pleasure to help someone like Ceola.”