Gates of Saint Charles

Professor John Reskos memoir narrates a religious struggle against the backdrop of the Great Depression, World War II, and Pre-Vatican II Catholicism. His dissection of the components of a religious vocation led him in a direction befitting his temperament and natural inclinations rather than the ease of their achievement. He describes his struggle to define a religious vocation and ultimately find the strength to follow his best instincts. It was not easy for a poor boy of uneducated immigrant parents from Austria-Hungry to find his way in the world. But the solid educational foundation provided by the Church proved to be the gateway to a greater purpose. He earned graduate degrees from both Marquette University and the University of Illinois. His doctoral work at Illinois was in the field of reproductive biology. These events portended a successful scientific career in Oregon.The events recorded in The Gates of Saint Charles are coupled with the history of the times and the dogma and traditions of the Roman Church. A small window has been opened into the life and education of seminarians during the time covered by the memoir.