![Jesuit Fathers Sonny Manuel, Steve Privett and Dan Germann](/media/ignatian-center/arrupe/new-faces.jpg)
Jesuit Fathers Sonny Manuel, Steve Privett and Dan Germann
Dan Germann, Sonny Manuel, and Steve Privett are three Jesuits with a project in search of an architect. They are new to Most Holy Trinity Parish, and they will be looking to Eastside residents to help give Santa Clara University’s “Eastside Project” form and substance.
The “Eastside Project” (now known as the Ignatian Center’s Arrupe Engagement) is Santa Clara University’s response to a call made last year by the Father General of the Society of Jesus to promote a more just and equitable world order. Sonny Manuel and Steve Privett have resided in our parish since January. This was the first step in the process of bringing University resources to the community.
Most Holy Trinity was selected after a survey was made of several parishes in San Jose. “MHT was chosen because it’s a large multicultural parish made up of people who are rooted in the area,” said Sonny. “It’s really a good cross-section of the world.” Most Holy Trinity is the largest parish in the Diocese of San Jose.
What will the outcome of this exchange between the University and East San Jose? The answer is evolving as Fr. Germann phones people and conducts meetings at the University and at the Parish. “People have indicated a concern about the dropout rate, drugs, the high cost of housing, and the needs of the single parents,” said Fr. Germann. “As the dialogue continues, a direction will be established.”
“It’s important that people know that we come with no agenda,” said Fr. Privett. “We know we have something to learn and we know that the people out here can teach us a lot.”
The Eastside Project, funded by the Bannan Foundation, brings the possibility of new and different resources for the community by means of manpower, research grants, work study positions in the community for USC students, and on-campus forums. Dan, Sonny and Steve hope that the dialogue will continue, and that the community will take active participation in the development of the project.
Fr. Germann, a native Californian, has a long history with the University of Santa Clara in Campus Ministry, as Chaplain and, more recently, as an instructor of Religious Studies. Fr. Manuel, a Jesuit since 1971, has experience in the field of Mental Health and is a Psychology instructor. Fr. Privett, former principal at Bellarmine College Preparatory, teaches Religious Studies to graduate students. At this time, meetings are set up at Santa Clara University and at Most Holy Trinity.
MHT Parish Newsletter
Dec 1, 1986