Catholic Schools Week: Q & A With Fr. Michael Augustine Amabisco, chaplain of Skaggs Catholic Center schools

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Fr. Michael Augustine Amabisco, OP

Dominican Father Michael Augustine Amabisco began as chaplain for the Skaggs Catholic Center Schools in May, a newly created position in which he serves the entire community of the three schools on the 57-acre campus in Draper. He recently sat down with the schools’ director of advancement, April van der Sluys, for a Q & A to share some insights on how he is ministering to the students, faculty, staff and parents.

Q: Knowing that this assignment for you is unlike any you’ve had before, how do you feel now that you have adjusted to your new role as chaplain for our three schools at the Skaggs Catholic Center? How is it going so far?

Fr. Michael Augustine: Let me start off by answering the second part of that question. It is going great! I am very happy to be here and feel grateful for the opportunity to serve as chaplain. Adjusting to the [Skaggs] Center and settling in will take some time. I’m getting familiar and working with three separate schools, numerous processes and programs, a multitude of activities, and plenty of wonderful and interesting personalities. There is much to learn and take in, and it has been a great experience so far.

Q: What’s a typical day as chaplain to our three schools here at the Skaggs Catholic Center?

Fr.Michael Augustine: This is something that is evolving. As I become more familiar with the schedules, operations and needs of theschools, I can better utilize my time to serve those needs. Right now, my day usually starts early, with morning Mass and meetings with different student groups. Throughout the day there are class visits, meetings with students, faculty and staff, and the always unforeseen and unexpected events that might require my time and attention. One of the challenges of a chaplain is finding the balance between devoting time to projects and tasks, as well as being available to those who may need my attention. That’s always a work in progress. Many times, the day ends at some after-school activity like sporting events or meetings. No matter how busy or hectic a day may be, I try to carve out some time for personal prayer. I find that it not only helps me personally in doing the things I need to do on a daily basis, but it is the essence of my job as chaplain. It is through faith and prayer that I can serve those God has called me to serve.

Q: Because we have three schools and a daycare at the Skaggs Catholic Center, what four words would you use to describe our schools, and why?

Fr. Michael Augustine: Present in God’s Plan. When Jesus gives us the Great Commission and tells us to go and make disciples of all nations and teach them all he has commanded, he gives us God’s plan. At the Skaggs Center, we have an opportunity to participate in God’s Plan through a “cradle through college”approach. We have an opportunity to form and strengthen disciples not only in the student body, but also their families, the faculty and staff, and the friends and benefactors of the center. That is what drew me to the position, an opportunity to serve God in a “cradle to college” environment. This is a unique opportunity and environment to serve as a chaplain.

Q: What have been some of your favorite activities on our campus with us so far this school year?

Fr. Michael Augustine: One of my favorite activities is celebrating Mass on campus. Whether it is in the Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel at the high school, or at the Saint John the Baptist Church with Fr. Stephen Tilley, it is always a joy. The chapel is small, homey and cozy – a more contemplative and informal environment. It is a great environment for smaller Masses, especially with student groups. Alternatively, the church provides a more majestic environment filled with light, and a more classic appeal. Concelebrating Mass with Fr. Tilley in the church is great! I think we have a good dynamic working together and are able to engage and connect with students at Mass. He has a wonderful gift for working with young people and I am learning much from him.

Q: OK. Now for something completely different, Father. Pie or cake? You and I often chat about food and thought we could add this one just for fun.

Fr. Michael Augustine: Both are good, but my go-to is always pie. It’s simple and magnificent: crust, filling and goodness.