ROL 155 - September 2013
ROMA ONLINE Brothers of Charity In “Roma online” of June, we informed you that we left for Indonesia. Indeed, from the 18th of June until the 23rd of July, we were in Indonesia, giving the retreat to the Brothers, accepting the first associate members, visiting all the houses and taking also some holidays. We took a special time to visit our new project in Flores, where the brothers are
Philippines where we could accept 18 new novices. In the P hilippines, we visited also in Mindanao an initiative in the field of mental health care that will be offered to the Brothers of Charity. The 5th of September, we returned to Belgium where we had the meeting with the committee of the Friends of the Brothers of Charity, and after a few days in Rome, we started in Ghent with our general council meeting, together with the p rovincial s uperiors for a whole week. On the Sunday the 15th of September, we visited u NEWS FROM THE SUPERIOR GENERAL again Paris with the c ouncil as a pilgrimage to the constructing a new psychiatric hospital in Ruteng. We hope tomb of Vincent Depaul and to Rue du Bac where that the hospital will be finished at the end of the year. With the the miraculous medal is venerated. support of several donators, and the special support of Reinier van Arkel h ospital of ‘s Hertogenbosch (Netherlands), we could realize During the week of the 16th of September, we v isited this nice project. For the moment, 2 brothers, Brother Michael and with the whole group the Belgium region, and we Brother B artolomeus are already there to prepare the start of the can say it was a very intensive visit, very interested new apostolate. in order to know the way that the congregation continues to be involved in the apostolic activities Back in Rome, I had the opportunity to give a conference about the in Belgium and that with 12.000 lay co-workers. We future of religious brothers in the church and in the world to the really appreciated the way that the regional superior, Xaverian brothers who had their general chapter. A good occasion Brother Luc Lemmens, organized the visit and we to reflect deeply about our identity and mission today! From the thank all who were involved in it. We ended the visit 9th until the 11th of August, I participated in Paris a meeting of the in Eindhoven where we met all the brothers of the Vincentians about sustainability in the line of V incent De Paul. It Netherlands and where we visited also the several was a very intensive meeting with representatives of the Lazarists activities on Eikenburg. and the Daughters of Charity from all over the world with some We wish all the brothers, associate members and other members of the broader Vincentian family. friends who read every month with interest Roma And then came the period of the retreats: first in Moerzeke to online a blessed work year! Let us continue to serve our young brothers staying in Belgium for studies, and also our the poor with love and great respect. students from Rome participated. Then to Nairobi where we Brother René Stockman, Superior General finished the first year novitiate with 40 novices and finally in the FRATELLI DELLA CARItà • Curia Generalizia • Via Giambattista Pagano 35 • 00167 Roma • Italia t. (+39) 06 66 04 901 • F. (+39) 06 66 31466 • www.brothersofcharity.org Responsabile: Fratello Séraphin Tshijika Mbumba • seraphinfc@gmail.com
NEWS FROM THE COMMUNITIES
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u OUR LADY OF SHESHAN • CHINA Summer was hot and dry here in Beijing. In the beginning of the month, postulant John went to a village near Taiyuan city, Shanxi Province, to do his service as a volunteer at a private Catholic family orphanage. He spent three weeks working there as a volunteer, and though afterwards he was somewhat exhausted, he said that his experience there was great, as he learned how to live the spirituality of our Founder, Peter Joseph Triest, in the service of the poor and the marginalized people. In early September, John started again his English lessons. His lessons are given by one of his English teachers at the BFSU (Beijing Foreign Studies University). In mid-September, the real fall semester program at the said university willl restart during which he’ll be engaged in a full-time program from Monday to Friday. In early August, Brother Martin Azzopardi of the Society of the Christian Doctrine of Malta came to visit us (see photo). He was doing a research project on the science education in China. He was quite familiar to our Brothers in Roermond, Holland, as he spent there some days last spring. Last month, Father Joseph Guo, our associate member, came from Hongdong, Shanxi Province, to our community to give lessons to postulant John, as well as giving us a recollection and spiritual guidance for about a week. Early this month, Father Joseph Zhang, associate member, also visited our community, together with his uncle and cousin. They’ stayed
overnight here, and then they went to Changchun, Jilin Province, where Father Zhang’s cousin will start his studies at a local university there. Then Father Zhang came back to Beijing again to give lessons and spiritual guidance to our postulant and stayed in our community for five days. Father Paul Liu of Taiyuan Diocese, who is a graduate of the IICT Spirituality program in Belgium, also paid a visit to our community in the beginning of August. During his visit, Brother Adrian gave some presentations to him, in preparation for his joining Congregation as an associate member. Father Paul will come again to follow the second session of these preparatory sessions in early October, and then he’ll be officially accepted as our new associate member during the upcoming visit of Brother General in China, next month. Brother Adrian Hartotanojo
THE SUPERIOR GENERAL’S VISIT SCHEDULE 21 September: from Belgium to Roma. 27 September: from Rome to Belgium 6 October: visit to India. 21 October: visit to Sri Lanka 25 October Belgium.
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u REGION FATHER CONSTANT LIEVEN - INDIA SAINT JOHN DE BRITTO COMMUNITY SIVAGANGAI Greetings from the Brothers of Saint John De Britto! From 6th to 8th August 2013, Brothers Julian and Swamynathan Wilfred paid a visit to Calicut, Kerala. They came back with Brother Komal Lomga. On 10 August 2013, Brothers went to Andichurani, Kalaiyaarkovil to visit Reverend Father David Baskar; it was a friendly visit. th
From 11th to 12th August, Brothers went to Carmel Villa for a gathering and had a feast day with the Sisters. They went to meet the Parish Priest in Devakottai for a friendly visit. On 15th August, Brothers went to Carmel convent for lunch, and on the same day Brothers Komal and Raphael went to Parish Church in Devakattai to celebrate the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. On 17th August, Brother Johnson renewed his temporary vows for two year during the Holy Eucharist offered by Father Packianathan, his Brother, Mother and Sisters of Carmel were present to witness this renewal. From 19th August, 18 Assistant Parish Priests and other dignitaries stayed in our house for the gathering. From 20th to 23th August, two novices of ours, Surjeet and Vijay, visited our community with the Brothers; they went to Carmel Convent for a gathering and Brother Wilfred Swamynathan with novice Vijay went to Calicut, Karla, and came back on 25th August 2013. From 26th to 27th August, Brothers went to Rameswaram to meet
Reverend Father Joshua and went to Carmel Villa for a friendly visit. On 29th August, two of our novices, Surjeet and Vijay, went to Sri Lanka to complete the second year of the novitiate. On the same day we visited the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary, in Trichy. On 31st August, we celebrated the birthday of our beloved Founder Father Peter Joseph Triest by offering a Holy Mass in the morning by Father C. A. James.
SAINT GIUSEPPE MOSCATI COMMUNITY SIVAGANGAI Greetings from Saint Guiseppe Moscati Psycho-Social Rehabilitation Center! On15th August 2013, Brothers and residents celebrated the festivity of Independence Day! The students from Ananda College, D evakottai, celebrated independence on our campus and they invited a politician to hoist the flag. They organized some games for our residents. Finally, they offered food to our residents. The residents are keeping fine. On 25th August, the doctor paid a visit to our Psycho-Social Rehabilitation Center and he consulted our residents one by one. On 31st August 2013, we have had the family meeting and many residents’ family members came to attend the meeting. Now we have 18 residents and some residents went home on a visit.
SAINT-ALPHONSA MUTTATHUPADATHU C OMMUNITY - RANCHI On 4th August 2013, our Brothers Laurentus and Rejius went to Delhi because they are preparing their visa in order to go to Ethopia for their study. On 11th August, Brothers Subodh, Navin and Dayal went for 15 days on a retreat as a preparation for their final perpetual vows which is going to take place on October 2013. On 26th August, we have had the happy occasion to praise and thank God together with Brother Pradeep Lomga, who celebrated his birthday. On 31st of August, Brothers and our best friends went together to participate the School Annual Day celebration at Saint Peter’s School, Brothers of Charity Simalia.
PARAM MITRA SADAN COMMUNITY RANCHI On 5th August 2013, we have had the program arranged by Marwari Help ‘Samiti’ for our residents and they distributed food and mosquito nets to all. On the 15th August, Independence Day of India was celebrated on our campus together with our residents. Many people came to this celebration; they performed many programs and distributed sweets to all. On 29thAugust, ‘Help Samiti Trust Ranchi’, run by Hindus, organized the program and they distributed clothes and food to the poor people.
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TRIEST HOUSE RANCHI On 4th August 2013, feast of Saint John Mary Vianney, we were invited to have a festival dinner by our Parish Priest at the Social Development Centre. On 5th August, Brother Alphonse Kujur went to Spirituality Centre Namkum for his annual retreat. On 7th August, Reverend Sister Emelda, the Medical Mission Sister, started to take lessons for the a spirants in their convent, an hour every day. She teaches English grammar, spoken English and hymns. On 15th August, we celebrated Assumption day of Mother Mary and Independence Day of India. We went to ‘Morabadhi’ Ground to hoist the flag; the flag was hoisted by Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Mr Hemant Soren. On 17th August, Brothers renewed their vows before Reverend Brother Praween Kullu. Brother Alphonse went home to see his sick father and next day he came back to Ranchi. On 31st August, we celebrated the anniversary of our Founder Father Peter Joseph Triest, and the same day Saint Peter’s School, Simalia, celebrated their School Day: hence, all of us participated in Holy Eucharist followed by the program and a meal together with the Brothers.
BLESSED PIER GIORGIO FRASSATI COMMUNITY CALICUT Greetings from Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Community, Calicut Kerala! On 15th August, we celebrated Independence Day of India, and we hoisted the flag of India. We
did it together with the Norbertine I ndependence Day of our country. International School students. We celebrated Independence Day in a good way! Some students played On17th August, in the community of the role of freedom fighters. It was a Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Calicut, success! Then, our students got very Kerala, South India, we had the r enewal busy preparing for the School Annual of vows of Br. Kullu Anuranjit for three Day. All the students and teachers were years and of Br. J.Julian for two years; practising the songs and sketches; it we invited the Vicar General, Rev. Dr. was very fine program. We invited Thomas Panakal and Rev. Fr. Martin parents of the students, r eligious, and George for Holy Mass. other people around. We celebrated Holy Mass, cul- tural programs by our students, and enjoyed lunch. The chief guest was our Parish Priest, Fr. JEEVAHIVAR COMMUNITY Donatus Tirkey, from Banhora Parish. CALICUT People appreciated the program. There Greetings from our residents from fell a little rain during our program; Jeeva Vihar Calicut, Kerala, South otherwise, everything went well. India!
On 15th August 2013, we the hoisted the national flag, in the presence of the residents and the students of Norbertine International school. Many people came to attend the celebration of Independence Day.
BLESSED KURIAKOSE ELIAS CHAVARA COMMUNITY RANCHI Three Brothers and four residents are living here in Blessed Kuriakose Community. We are all keeping fine. Three Brothers are teaching at the school and our residents are busy in the Horticulture Department. They cultivate vegetables. So, we get some vegetables from our land. They go to get medicine each month from RINPASS and PARAM MITRA SADAN. In the month of August, we had many feasts at the school. Our students started first external written exams in the first week of August and finished on 8th August. On 15th August, all the students and teachers were busy, because it was
SAINT PETER’ SCHOOL RANCHI Still we are looking for the new teachers for the school; the principal, Mrs. Madhu Tirkey, discontinued her service at the school. Some students do not attend school regularly. They are poor in study. We are trying to help them but family members are not co-operating with the children nor with us. Parents of this village do not understand the value of education. About the new teachers, we asked to place an announcement in the newspapers, but there is no positive result. Brother Wilfred Swamynathan
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u SACRED HEART REGION • PHILIPPINES INTERNATIONAL F ORMATION HOUSE BICOL To all our beloved Roma on Line readers, it is another gracious opportunity to share with you some news from our International Formation House Bicol. First of all, we are glad to send you our kind regards! Mmany things have taken place here in the formation house, but the following are the events worth sharing: On 5th June, we, as international formation house, had an opportunity to celebrate the birthday of one of us named George Chanda from St Paul region, Zambia. It was a joyous moment to thank God for the gift of each of us especially of our Br George who turned 22. On 6th June, at around 6.00 am, we were honored to welcome Rev. Br Joel Ponsaran, the Provincial Superior of the Americas who came all the way from Manila just to visit us and give us a conference. It was a nice time for Br Joel to visit once again the n ovitiate as he was the driving force behind building the whole Nazareth complex. On the same day, around 1.20 pm, Br Jesus returned from his two weeks’ home leave. He brought into the community many material gifts to the community. On 8th June, we were privileged to have a fruitful conference given by Rev. Br Joel Ponsaran. The first part of the conference was a sharing with Brother some vital information about his province (Our Lady of Guadalupe) and the challenges facing his province. It was very useful for us to gather factual information about the Congregation in the Americas! The second part of conference was about human d evelopment which was also very helpful for our human and spiritual development. We invited
him to visit us next time when he comes back to his native country, the Philippines! On 13th June, we celebrated the birthday of Br Damian in our c ommunity and everybody here was happy to join him for attaining his 60th birthday. He is now a senior citizen of the Philippines. There were many presentations in the form of dance and music from all the countries represented here. th June, Br Jesus travelled to M anila to receive our fellow companion from Belgium, Deepak Mehra. Theyl arrived here safely on June 19, and were happy to join us! On 30th June, Brs Damian and Jesus left for Indonesia where their wouldl join Rev. Brother General in celebrating the silver jubilee of 6 Indonesian Brothers. They were scheduled to stay there for one week. We all prayed for their safe return safely to our community. On 31st of June, our postulant from Paskistan, Amir Jamir, was unfortunate to be the first to be admitted to hospital as he was diagnosed with “Ndege”; a very severe fever similar to malaria. He would be in hospital for one week. We thank God that he is back in our community still recuperating. On 7th July 2013, we were honored by the honorable visit of Rev. Brother Victor Hugo, who came to visit our community and gave us a conference on Wednesday 10th July. On 9 July, we had a welcome ceremony of Br Victor Hugo in our community. There were songs and dance from all the countries represented here. He is scheduled to live for Rome on 13th July. th
On 20th July, we had a chance to visit the Sisters of Charity in Legaspi; it was a good opportunity for the Brothers, especially for the postulants to meet them and to get to know them
individually. It was a Saturday, on that occasion, we availed ourselves of the opportunity to talk with the street children of which our Sisters are taking care of. As our offering, we rendered a song for them; indeed, that was a joyful experience. On that same day, we visited another place called Albay Wildlife Conservation, where you can find exquisite animals in all their variety. Afterwards, we had the privilege to visit the place of Cagsawa ruins, this place is historical in the Philippines, where we saw the old church buried and demolished by Mayon Volcano. On 23th July, the new transportation of the Brothers of Charity or the s o-called jeepney was blessed. Every month we traditionally celebrate life, and that is our individual birthday, as we all know that life is very important because it’s a gift given by God. Last 30th July, we celebrated the birthday of Bernard Madara O mboga, one of our postulants and we also included the birthday of our w orker, kuya Charlie, at the same time. We officially welcomed Br Joseph K asonde as a membe of our community and as a formator as well. Community life will never be complete without a community outing; this event r efreshes all the members of the community, an occasion that brings us together. On 17th August, the Brothers decided to go to the place where we can soak our bodies in the hot and cold water: we visited Sorsogon, a three hours’ trip; so there we found perfect relaxation; from the bottom of our hearts we thank the Brothers for that very pleasant occasion. Life is really precious because God fills it with love, graces and b lessings, this month of August we have
ROL 155 - September 2013 - p. 6 commemorated the birthday of the two Indian postulants, Satyadeep and Swarup, which was on 24th August. Each Brother gave his own message as an encouragement to the birthday celebrated. As usually we made a brief program for them. On August 26th in the evening, Rev. Brother René Stockman arrived at the International Formation House here in the Philippines. Despite the bad weather, he made an effort to reach the novitiate house. We felt very thankful to God, because he arrived safely. We would like to say our special thanks to the Brothers who accompanied Brother General during his trip, namely; Brs Jess, Allan, and Johnrey. As a community, we paid special attention to welcome Brother René and the Brothers with a warm and open heart. Brother Isidore, the superior of the community brought them to the dining hall and he offered good foods and drinks. On 27th August, in the morning, a great silence was observed inside the F ormation House as the postulants began their annual re treat, conducted and headed by Rev. Brother René Stockman, Superior General of the Congregation. Every
day, Brother René gave a conference to the p ostulants. The reflection and views that Br René gave us were very helpful and fruitful; we gained knowledge about community life, prayer life etc; he also taught us the example and service of our Founder, Father Triest to be practised. He really gave us the most profound meaning of religious life. The postulants had the privilege to c onverse with Br General, individually. We would love to thank all the Brothers for their support and assistance during the momentous retreat, and of course every day we had a celebration of the Eucharist as part of our retreat, weekly adoration was there also and was led by Br René.
embers. We have received the m cassock, Bible, and Constitution of the Congregation from the hand of the Superior General. Guests were there to witness the ceremony; it was i ndeed successful. After the celebration, we brought all the guest, including the Sisters of Charity, to the refectory to share our fraternal meal; there we shared our heartfelt gratitude. We ask the good Lord to keep all of you from every evil and harm. Pax Christi! Brothers Bernard Omboga, Lucas Ezekiel, Rey Montalban
On 30th August, we had a chance to accept the sacrament of confession, everyone did their best to confess their individual transgressions, and confession was conducted by our own chaplain, Father Conrad Goulet (SSS) On 31st of August, the momentous and joyous event that the p ostulant awaits for a long time has come. The celebration began, where the postulants accepted the invitation of Christ to be numbered among the religious, eighteen (18) p ostulants were accepted to the novitiate. We are very happy and glad because the Congregation accepts us as new
u BLESSED JOSEPH VAZ REGION • VIETNAM BLESSED ANDRE PHU YEN VIETNAM On August 24, Brother Adrian Hartotanojo, General Assistant, arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to pay a week’s visit to the communities of our Brothers there. The next day, August 25, a profession renewal and the acceptance of new postulants celebration was held at the La Vang Community. Five young Brothers r enewed their vows, and two new postulants were accepted during the special Holy Mass there. The priest who presided at Mass was a Salesian Father who is the elder Brother of one of our young Brothers there.
Also, two Dominican nuns, who were helping the Brothers in their vocational recruitment and formation, were present during the celebration. The next day, August 26, Brother Adrian together with Brothers Dominic, Vincent and Nicola went to visit Lam Dong Province, especially to visit the coffee plantation in Bao Loc which is to be donated to our Congregation by a local benefactor there, and to visit the private psychiatric center run by a Catholic Family who take care of about 400 patients. On Wednesday, August 28, a regional assembly of all the Vietnamese Brothers was held in La Vang community to discuss the preparation for the coming Asian Provincial Chapter in Sri Lanka.
ROL 155 - September 2013 - p. 7 The main topic of our discussion was about the promulgation of our last General Chapter of 2012 and its possible local implementations. On Thursday, August 29, Brother Dominic accompanied Brother Adrian to visit a vocational training center for the blind run by a former Salesian Brother; and to visit the general house of the Dominican Sisters of Our Lady of the Rosary in Ho Chi Minh City. On the last day of his visit, Brother Ignasio accompanied Brother Adrian to visit the Notre Dame Cathedral of Ho Chi Minh and some other tourist sites in the city. Brother Adrian then left Ho Chi Minh on August 31 very early in the morning, going back to his residence in Beijing, China. Brother Adrian
u SAINT AUGUSTINE PROVINCE - AFRICA SAINT BAKHITA C OMMUNITY YAMOUSSOUKRO IVORY COAST On 24th August 2013, a member of the Women’s Union of the United Methodist Church of Ivory Coast, UFEMUCI came to visit the r esidents of our Psychiatric Hospital; she prayed with them, she had made the donations on food and non-food. The hospital by the voice of its Director Brother Félicien, expressed his appreciation and gratitude for the generosity and this act of love for our patients.
On 31st August, Brother Stanislaus Ndiguissi Maximilian officially left the community of Saint-Bakhita Yamoussoukro for Saint-Cyprien community in Abidjan, where he is now a full member. He will stay there for the purpose of studies at the Catholic University of West Africa. The community honors him for his fruitful stay in Yamoussoukro and especially for his dedication to the sick through his ministry. At the same time the community wishes him success in his studies.
On 4th September, the community welcomed joyfully the novice Anselme Rodrigue Amokodopa from Nairobi. The community wishes him a good trip and a good community experience especially during the probationary period of six months. Brother Donatien - Dejoie Mawaya
u OUR LADY OF AFRICA REGION • REPUBLIC DEMOCRATIC OF CONGO BLESSED ANUARITE COMMUNITY GOMA Blessed Anuarite our community has experienced a change of its members: Brothers Bernard Ntambwe, Jean Mbeshi Mundende, Theodor Kondo and Innocent Tamfutu, although they knew the movement of change, were replaced.
Now our community is composed of Brothers Frederic Kazadi, local Superior, Cletus Payal T amudele, Justin Bashombe, Augustine Tshimanga, Floribert Kabindu and William of the Cross Mulenda Mwema.
For the past months, we have received very remarkable visitors: the passage of Brother Jean M beshi, the Assistant General and former member of the community, the mother of Brother Justin Bashombe with whom we spent a special evening around a meal in the presence of all, and also of Brother Fabrice Bashamaro Murhembo who was back from Sri Lanka.
ROL 155 - September 2013 - p. 8 For ten days, the community had the joy of living together with a reporter expatriate visitor from Spain; he had come especially to see our mentally disabled children in special schools and victims of war and mental health.
APOSTOLATE Our apostolate is progressing well, and all colleagues are motivated in their places of apostolate, some are at the center for physically disabled, the others work in mental health and at the school. The date of 1st August dedicated to the parents, was special with a v isit of a daughter of our chronically ill, mental health hosted at CHP/ FC, who arrived with gifts to visit her mother regardless of her health status. Upon delivery of her dowry, she asked the need for our presence (CHP) and her mom.
This lady is the only daughter of our chronic patient (Mbambu Christine) who remains in our center for Disabled, subject to m onitoring psychotropic trauma. At the Center of physical disabilities, we treat outpatients we, we’ve also added a spiritual dimension with the baptism of three children, two of whom are our in-patients and the other a child of a deceased employee. The work done in the special school with our mentally disabled children is not understood in our society of Goma. Society does not understand that this category of children who are the primary beneficiaries. These children, who are commonly called “BIWELE - BIWELE” which means “fools and worthless”, although Br Augustine Tshimanga with all the teachers are doing a commendable job for the children, even during the holidays. Some family drop in to visit the children at school, and some parents say thanks to the Brothers of Charity.
SAINT FRANCOIS XAVIER C OMMUNITY LUSAMBO We began exploiting in our community keywords that were raised during the last General Chapter of May 2012; they are the following words: UNITY - SOLIDARITY SPIRITUALITY – CHARITY. During the past month, Br André Falaki shared with us the concept of “ UNITY”; it is for us to respond to the invitation of the Chapter to invest enough energy to strengthen unity in the Congregation, Charisma was the leading factor which unite us as we will be able to live authentically our lives in the community and in the Congregation.
The appellation of “BIWELE-BIWELE” had echoes in Spain with a certain Patrick Meinhardt Armanders, a journalist by profession, in a written article by Mr Carlos, who also visited the same school, in open collaboration with Br John Mbeshi; the latter came to Goma to visit the children “BIWELE - BIWELE” for their promotion in Spain and also to visit the victims of war, sexual violence and other psychiatric cases in our mental health Center.
SPIRITUALITY From 2nd August to 6 August 2013, an annual retreat was held in Bukavu at the Jesuits Amani. All the Brothers attended and forgot for a time their work to concentrate on spiritual renewal. Two novices remained home to keep an eye on the c ommunity buildings. Brother William Cross Mulenda
Brother André focused on mystical unity that produces and stimulates charity among the Brothers, the bond of perfection (Col. 3:14): “Over all these clothes, to keep them together and complete them, put on love.” He insisted on the true unity that is constructive as opposed to the false unity which is destructive, which is shared between people outside. Brother Dieudonné animated us on solidarity as it was experienced by the Jewish community; internal solidarity, as it has been described by Jesus, is a s olidarity that is based on love; Jesus brings a message of love on which our solidarity must be based.
ROL 155 - September 2013 - p. 9 Brother Bernard told us on spirituality: he cited three ways available to us if we want to become spiritual Brothers, that is, our personal prayer, our common prayer and our spiritual training. He invited the Brothers of the community to practise the “spirituality of little things” in ordinary life. We had with all the teachers of Catholic schools of Lusambo a recollection with a theme on “humility as imperative to follow Christ”, led by the vicar of the p arish of Saint Anthony. On the academic level, we had final exams of 2012. The announcement of the results was made on 2 July 2013. On 12th July, Br André Falaki renewed his vows of religious life for one year in an atmosphere of prayer and meditation. On 4 August 2013, we participated in the celebration of the Centenary of Evangelization in the Diocese of Kabinda at St Martin parish. th
On 8th August, Brother Erick Kasamba went to Kinshasa; Brother Gerard Munandi after the end of the year school, will go to his new community in Shabunda. On 15th August, the school year 2013-2014 was opened in Lusambo with the registration of new candidates. We had preparatory meetings with the heads of teaching units, and the teachers “making contact” and the training of session for three days, from 29 August to S aturday 31 August for the benefit of the teacher Group of school of Brothers of Charity, on the theme, “ Identity of a school of Brothers of Charity”. Identity is always immaterial, and it is not quantifiable; in the s ession animated by Br Bernard, he showed that the Brothers schools are inclusive (because they are open to all without distinction) and exclusive by the testimony and guidance given in their teaching inspired by the figure of Christ. On 2nd September 2013, it was the official opening of the school year. God bless us and bless this year! Brother Bernard Ntambwe
u BLESSED ISIDORE BAKANJA REGION • KENYA • ETHIOPIA BLESSED ISIDORE BAKANJA KENYA/ ETHIOPIA On 2th June 2013, the medical department of the Gefersa Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre (our co-workers) visited the Frederick Ozanam community. This was a get together to bring more conducive relationship within the work place and also to present our picture as Brothers to them since most of the staff members are still not well acquainted with the identity of the Brothers. On 6th June, the regional Superior of Blessed Isidore Bakanja (BIB) region arrives from Nairobi to Addis Ababa Ethiopia.
On 12th July 2013, the Frederick Ozanam Community in G efersa took a visiting out in one of the Parks of Ethiopia, the Green Lake in courtesy Miss Veerle, and psychiatric expert from Belgium who was to travel back to Belgium after a 3 month of work with the GMHRC where our Brothers carry out their Apostolate. On 14th July, Frederick Ozanam Community hosted Brothers of Saint-Gabriel community Mekanisa for a farewell party that was observed for the departure of Miss Veerle who will be t ravelling to Belgium for another appointment.
Miss Veerle has been good to the Brothers as she too experience our hospitality as Brothers of Charity for the time she was staying with us. Her advice to the community was that the community and the C ongregation of the Brothers of C harity to keep up and continue w orking tirelessly by following the Spirit of our founder Father P. J. Triest in serving those who the s ociety r ejects, the poor. She remained happy with the apostolic works taking place in Gefersa Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre in Ethiopia.
ROL 155 - September 2013 - p. 10 On 21th July, 9 Candidates origin from Ethiopia from the Blessed Isidore Bakanja region travelled to Ndera-Rwanda to begin the three months Candidacy formation, for the preparation of their further formation in Nairobi- Kenya. We wish all of them a safe journey and a happy time as they experience and respond to the call to Brotherhood and more so to be as Brother of Charity. On 6th August 2013, the regional Superior of Blessed Isidore Bakanja (BIB) region left to Nairobi after his one month visit to Ethiopia. We wish him a safe journey On 18th August, a journalist from the 105.3 FM Radio Station Ethiopia v isited Frederick Ozanam Community in Gefersa. She was interested to know more about the Brothers of Charity and their apostolic work in the GMHRC.
On 28th August 2013, the F rederick Ozanam Community welcomed Brother Samuel, Novice, who has just completed his Canonical year from our formation house in Nairobi-Kenya. Brother Samuel will join the group of the four Brothers currently in the community. We wish him a good moment in the community. On 31st September 2013, two of our Brothers, Brothers Leo and Dawson from Frederick Ozanam C ommunity in Gefersa-Addis Ababa visited the Miraculous Medal Community of Awassa. It was a joyful moment to experience h ospitality from our own dear Brothers. We are grateful for this and we urge them to extend this even to our poor Brothers and Sisters.
Regional On 3rd September, the Superior of Blessed Isidore Bakanja (BIB) region arrived from Nairobi to Ethiopia. The Brother’s fraternities in Ethiopia hereby welcome him as he will spend his time with us. We wish him a good moment during his stay. Awassa Community organized a vocation day where Brother Alex Mwenya from S aint-Gabriel Community of Addis Ababa travelled to Awassa to meet a group of youths who are showing interest to j oining our C ongregation. The message received is that a number of youths participated this day and learnt more about our Congregation in which we pray that with Gods providence, we shall soon welcome some of them to come and see and to experience our life. We therefore ask for your prayers that after they seen, they may stay. Brother John Leo
u SAN MARTIN DE PORRES • PERU LIMA COMAS PERU On 17th June 2013, Brother Johnny returned from Cusco. He did his retreat at the Salesian “Un retiro de altura, por supuesto”. Visitò también sus familiares por allí (A high retreat; He also visited his family). We know that Brother Joel will visit us, but we know nothing about the visit of Brother Martin de Porres. I knew him as a student in Washington. Our estimate Br Jimi will return from his long journey the 20th of this month. Certainly he will have good news for us. We are very happy with his presence in Peru as a superior. He is also much appreciated in Ayacucho. Father Bernard Paquette. c.s.v. returned from Quebec; he said that his community has financial problems to continue to accompany the sick colleagues.
More than 20 members took the road to the cemetery; and the recruitment nonexistent. Here winter began for good and never-ending cold is visiting us. 23th August: this day marks the birthday of our c onfrere, Br Jimi Huayta Rivera. We sent him our wishes with the assurance of our prayers. On 3th September 2013, Br Victor Hugo, Assistant General, left Lima for Rome at the end of his vacation. On 30th August, his birthday was highlighted. We wish him a fruitful apostolate that we will support by our prayer intentions. Brother Bernard Boulay
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u SAINT ANNE REGION • CANADA MONTREAL CANADA On 1st June, Fr Michael Assorgoe, sma African, Brother of Fr Tiburce our chaplain, began his stay of a month at the Oratory from 1st June to 30 June. He stayed with us. Another colleague sma from Africa, Fr Cyril Imohiosen, a very charming “boarder”, nicknamed “The Big Cyril”, came to replace him in July to provide the same pastoral service to Saint Joseph’s Oratory. Fr Michael left us on 1st July. On 28th July 2013, died at the age of 80, of Alzheimer’s disease, Jean-Marc Huot , Brother of our confrere Philip.
CAMP SAINT - ALPHONSE
On 22th August 2013, our Regional Superior, Br Gaston Paquet, launched an invitation to a “roast wheat-Indian”. If the response is an indication of his popularity, know that 16 colleagues were there. Know that our region has 21 Brothers! During the month of August, the Provincial Superior, Br Joel Ponsaran, visited Nicaragua and Peru. He inquired firsthand about their situation, which will prepare for the General Council meeting [with the Provincial] that, when Roma online appears, will have been opened. It goes without saying that our Provincial Superior is also well aware of the situation in Sainte-Anne region! Brother Bellemare Jacques
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u OUR LADY OF CHARITY REGION • USA SAINT VINCENT DE PAUL COMMUNITY WASHINGTON Saint Vincent Mission celebrated 45 years of exitence. More than 150 people joined St Vincent Mission as the 45th anniversary was celebrated on the weekend of the 19th and 20th of July in David, Kentucky. The two days of activities included prayer, arts and crafts, musical entertainment and food for those who travelled from near and far. Sister Kathleen Weigand OSB, executive director of St Vincent, says the mission began in 1968. It was f ounded by the Brothers of Charity from Philadelphia in answer to the pressing needs of poverty that were found in the Appalachian Mountains of Eastern Kentucky. The first two Brothers of Charity, Br Matthew Burns and Br Fintan Rochford, were assisted by a group of young Brothers and a large number of volunteers during the early years. Many material assistance programs began to quickly take shape as the Brothers made contact with families deep in the mountain hills. To this day, the mission continues to provide a food pantry, home repairs, second hand store, and scholarship funds for needy students and emergency financial assistance. It has also been the home of David Appalachian Crafts for 40 years, where artists have been able to craft, display and sell their hand-crafted work and supplement their income. For the past three years, the mission has helped to sponsor the Grow Appalachia Program, which is a sustainable agriculture program that is helping to encourage more locally grown food used in homes, restaurants and stores. Br Michael Lonsway, from Triest Hall in Laverock, Pennsylvania was able to attend the anniversary gathering. He is the former director of St Vincent Mission in the 1970s and now continues as the B rothers of C harity member on the Board of Directors. He also serves the Board as chairperson of the Finance Committee. St Vincent de Paul, patron of the mission, continues to smile graciously on the work that continues with his inspiration.
JUBILEE CELEBRATION IN P HILADELPHIA WASHINGTON August 15th was a celebration of the 25th Jubilee of profession of Br Aurel Valdrez. We celebrated the Eucharist in our community chapel in Laverock along
with our 8 developmentally delayed residents, our lay staff, and some volunteers. Our community from Washington DC joined us also for this happy event. The Brothers renewed their profession, and one of our associate members renewed her promises. After Mass we had dinner. We also recognized the 40th anniversary of profession of Br Bill Riley.
BASEBALL OUTING The Triest Hall residents and staff attended their annual baseball event on 24 August. This is always a day of fun for all to enjoy the sporting event and have a meal.
FAMILY EVENT The weather was perfect on 8 September for the a nnual family picnic at Triest Hall in Laverock. Each year we have this event to bring the families of our developmentally delayed residents together, along with our staff and some volunteers, to join in a relaxing day as members of the large Triest Hall family. About 45 people attended.
REGIONAL FEAST DAY Since the feast of Our Lady of Charity, the patroness of our Region (8 September, the Birth of Mary) fell on a Sunday, we celebrated it the next day on Monday, 9 September. A special office was said and prayers to our patroness. We also enjoyed a treat in the community.
TRIEST HALL LAVEROCK WASHINGTON On 25th June 2013, by the grace and mercy of God, the Canadian Embassy sent us the precious visa that will allow us to travel to you on the year of grace 2013. These are Brs Joel and Donald. Our trip to the “Quebec” land is already a thing of the past and now, with a little more time (free), we thank you, and in your name, thank the entire community of M ontreal for the warm welcome you have rewarded us. During these days, we felt very loved and p rotected by all of you and you have helped us to spend some unforgettable days in Montreal. Thank you wholeheartedly for everything. Count on our prayers, and we ask you to pray for us. You have been, and have put into practice to us, the real Brothers of Charity. God bless you.
ROL 155 - September 2013 - p. 13 On 23th August, the Regional Superior of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe supports the idea of a simplified, economical and practical way to close our Chapter (provincial). The preparation is ongoing. It will be held from 4th November to 5th, in Coronet, Montreal. By decision of the Provincial, Brother Jimi Antonio On 3rd September, just to inform you that Br Joel arrived in Rome. He will enjoy his stay to renew his residence permit. Brother John
u SAN MARTIN DE PORRES • CASA REGIONAL - CARRETERA GRANADA SAINT VINCENT DE PAUL GRANADA NICARAGUA We are three Brothers in Nicaragua: Brother Emmanuel of Ivory Coast’s nationality, coordinator Fracarita Nicaragua; he also has the function of director of the Centro Jesús Amigo, in addition to Regional C ouncillor. Brother Anthony of the Philippines is currently the treasurer of the Casa Hogar Amanecer while shopping. Brother R ichard Bardier is the Regional Superior of Saint Martin de Porres Area, Superior of Saint Vincent de Paul, Director of Casa Hogar Amanecer, and member of the National Council of the Vincentian Family.
In August, we had the pleasant visit of Brothers Joel Ponsaran, Provincial Superior of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and Brother Martin de Porres, continental coordinator Fracarita International. We highly appreciated both visits. The Brothers have visited and met the Brothers of the community and the staff of our two centers. This visit was an opportunity to inject new blood in both the community centers. Since then, Brother Emmanuel is working hard to establish the office Fracarita Nicaragua. We hope that in the future, our work will bear necessary fruits for preservation and progress of our two centers. Brother Richard Bardier
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PETER JOSEPH TRIEST COMMUNITY A YACUCHO Bro. Bernard Houle travelled to Canada for vacation which is scheduled to the end of October. Meanwhile, there is no brother in Ayacucho. From August 11 to August 15, Ayacucho was visited by Bros. Joel Ponsaran - Provincial, Richard B ardier Regional and Bros. Martin and Jimi - Fracarita members, to study the feasibility of our project - COSMA. Bro. Jimi will travel next week to give a theme to the Associate Member-candidates, commissioned by Bro. Bernard Houle who is responsible.
SAN MARTIN DE PORRES COMMUNITY L IMA The Community was visited by Brother Victor Hugo Merino, General Counselor, on vacation, which allowed him to visit families and friends. He was also invited by Bro. Richard to meet with our Associate Members. On August 12, Bro. Roli resumed his sixth semester in the college after a short recess of half a year. Bros. Joel, Richard and Martin also shared with the community and especially appreciated our tasty Peruvian cuisine. On August 19, Bro. Roli renewed his votes for a period of three years, amidst visitors of honor and associate members.
SAN JUAN MACIAS COMMUNITY C OMAS Bro. Bernard continues his animation of the reflection on the Sunday gospel every week with the youth of Escuela de Vida; he also brings material improvements to E scuela de Vida. Bro. Johnny renewed with his a ctivities in “Jose Marti” School in the area of mentoring support program for youth with difficulties.
FRACARITA OFFICE PERU The office was visited by Mrs. Lambert Lutgard who supports some projects in Ayacucho for patients with schizophrenia. From 9 to 20, Bro. Martin de Porres, Fracarita C ontinental Coordinator, conducted the feasibility study for our services of CEPETRI & COSMA.
Bro. Jimi is participating in a conference for the analysis of the services in the context of government and private sector collaboration. Besides he held m eetings with o fficials from the Ministry of Education, in an effort to “marry” Government and CEPETRI in local management. Brother Jimi Huayta Antoine Rivera
MENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIZED CENTER COSMA AYACUCHO Archbishop Salvador Piñeiro and Lic Cristina, D irector, welcomed the Brothers to Ayacucho, with a gesture of humility and appreciation for all they do for those who suffer the most. The Mental Health C ommunity team conducted visits to the communities of San M iguel under the guidance of Betty Misaico from Lima, specialist P sychiatrist; moreover, an educational video was developed for Chuschi communities among others. On August 29, the COSMA team visited Huanta in order to reflect and enhance the bonds of friendship. Besides the “Way of hope” they organized social activities for all families to raise funds for the celebration of the end of the Year. Ms. cristina de la cruz
SPECIAL BASIC EDUCATION COLLEGE CEPETRI COMAS CEPETRI resumed its educational activities on T uesday, August 13 after a mid-year-three-weeks recess. This time, the has a new principal: Ms. Gabriela Morote, who had worked a few years ago at CEPETRI; the experience in Management that she is bringing is a great strength. The CEPETRI organized the first meeting of “Friends Tutors”, with many children sharing an educational m orning. There have been assessments and innovative proposals for the administrative and quality improvement. Ms. Gabriela Morote
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SAINT VINCENT REGION • BELGIUM
REGION SAINT VINCENT BELGIUM During the past months 23 Flemish people renewed their promise as associate members of St Vincent Regio. Eight newcomers made their promise for the first time; in principle, they will renew their promise for another three years next year and thereafter every time for three years. With this, our Regio counts 98 associate members to this date. The renewal of promise for our Walloon associate members is scheduled for next mont.
Strong moments were the celebration of the Eucharist with the community of the monks and other faithful. God has made us a promise: “Look, I make everything new.” He Himself guarantees it and will support our mission. Meanwhile the Dutch book “Reminiscensies in Gratitude” by Br Bavo Van Dingenend was published. He tells us about this life in more than 200 pages, a.o. things about his youth, his family, World War II, and his apostolate in the Missions. Br General had the kindness to write the preface to the book.
A group retraite took place at the hospitable abbey of Postel for the seventh time. This year twelve p eople, From 16 to 31 Augustus 2013 a group of some forty oviciate among whom two associate members, took part in it. African and Kazakhstani people gathered at the n house of St.-Maria-Aalter. Brother Luke Maes led this group from 24 till 28 June. Individual and community prayer alternated with Shortly after the genocide in Rwanda in 1994, Br Victor silent moments, rest, dialogue, meetings and brotherly Quets began this series of meetings at Beernem, offering get-togethers. Every day we got two short instructions the participants a quiet holiday. After three years the on prayer. This year the guest master, Fr Benny Berrens, meeting place was determined by Br René Stockman the treated about the year of faith in a enthusiastic and noviciate house. It has become a traditional event. Every year these families join to relax, to discuss issures and engaged way. expectations, to get to know one another and to deepen their faith. Brother Luc Lemmens