Contact

June - October:
Saint Dominic Priory
630 E Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20024

Phone: (202) 554-2360 ext.123
Fax: (202) 554-0231

November - May:
7310 S.W. 53 Court
Miami, FL 33143.

Phone: (305) 668-1807
Fax: (305) 668-1807 

Biography

A native of Manchester, NH, of Iroquois and French descent, Father Val enjoyed a successful career as an international stage actor-singer-producer. A World War II veteran, he resided principally in Miami, from which city he became the first known priesthood vocation to the Order of Saint Dominic from the state of Florida. He was ordained at the age of 38, and for over 45 years, he has preached around the world. He has preached to lay people, religious sisters and priests, in parishes, retreat houses, federal and state prisons, and university campuses. Father Val is especially available to regular AA retreats and Matt Talbot recovery groups. His service to people in recovery has merited him the prestigious "Courage to Challenge" award conferred upon him by the National Council of Alcoholism.

Programs

Father Val is famed for his preaching style that combines the clear doctrine of the Catholic Church with an eloquence of Bishop Sheen, and the karate-humor of Don Rickles. Because of his understanding of the human condition, he breaks down generational barriers. He gives hilarious examples, tells outrageously funny stories, and in the process, manages to uncover fears and anxieties. He makes people admit their reluctance to be honest about who they really are. All in all, he makes the listeners see how they twist reality to fit their blurred vision and has them focusing on Jesus at the center of a vibrant Christian life. His innovative talks are based on scriptural insights presented in popular, direct language -- a bridge between the traditional "mission" of yesteryear and the contemporary mood of the developing Church. Because Father Val is a humorist, his programs change constantly, but they invariably entertain within a solid context of inspiration and information. The Church's teaching is always highlighted. Judging by the hearty laughter of his congregations, and the throngs who come to hear him, and the thousands who purchase his wide variety of cassettes and videos Father Val is a preacher easily understood by all. He touches hearts.

In parishes, Father Val preaches at all the Masses on the weekend prior to the scheduled program which actually begins on Monday and ends on Wednesday. Mass is in the morning with a brief homily. This takes about 50 minutes, but if the Mass is for people on their lunch break, the talk is given afterwards. Confessions and private interviews are scheduled usually before and after Mass, or by mutually convenient appointment. There are no penance services or confessions in the evening. The major talk is always at night and that too is about 50 minutes in length. Then, if you choose the option, for about a half an hour, he answers questions which the congregation wrote earlier. He answers them all, if not orally, then at least by mail.

Upon request, Father Val offers an additional talk on the "Spirituality of Addiction." He is himself a recovering alcoholic and drug addict, now over 20 years in recovery, who regularly counsels and lectures on the nature of all kinds of addiction while openly sharing his story.

There are at least 15 "programs" surrounding a major theme from which clients may choose. No repetitions on second visits. Information is given on request.

Availability

Even in his eighties, while Father Val has some bookings that reach into the year 2005, it does not indicate that there are no dates available up to that time. Call and check. Because of his health, Father Val must now limit his geographical area. He will preach from Jacksonville, FL, to Maine from late Spring through October. From November to April, however, he preaches south of Jacksonville to the Caribbean. "Emergency" needs for a preacher will always be considered, and if not available, recommendations will be made.

Fee

The preaching of the Word should never be inhibited by financial considerations. Any parish or organization unable to meet the financial arrangements suggested, should not hesitate to apply, and due consideration will be made. All fees are negotiable.