Ozanam News Spring 2012 Registered Charity Number SC006326
Wishing you all a Happy Easter
Easter People..
Celebrating a Vincentian Life ‌
Find out some of the characteristics of the Easter people
Meet some of our members who have reached a milestone in their service to
the society
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Council of Scotland SR ELEANOR ROGERS National Spiritual Adviser MICHAEL BALFOUR (Trustee) National President CHRISTINE GRAY (Trustee) National Treasurer BRIAN DURKIN (Trustee) St Andrews & Edinburgh Recruitment BERNICE BRADY (Trustee) Glasgow PETER BIRRELL Aberdeen West JIM LYNCH (Trustee) Paisley HR JAMES MCKENDRICK (Trustee) Galloway/ Fundraising JOHN JOYCE (Trustee) Dunkeld IAN RIDDELL (Trustee) Aberdeen East JOE MC EACHAN (Trustee) Motherwell/VIP IAN TIERNEY Twinning/Projects CLARE CARR National Youth Development Officer VANESSA FERNANDES Communications Officer PUBLISHING POLICY I.The objective is to publish a new Ozanam News, which will be issued three times per year, May, September and November. To facilitate this, a Publications Committee has been formed and a member of the National Council has been made responsible for its operation. The Publications Committee will normally meet two months before going to the Printer. As at present, the actual putting together of the magazine will be the responsibility of the National Office staff, who will select the Printer and liaise and coordinate with all preproduction functions. 2. In accordance with National Council requirements the intention will be not to feature 'editorial' pieces. Any material deemed to detract from the Society's broader aims will be approved by the National Council prior to publication. Hopefully these arrangements will help the new Ozanam News to develop into a more humorous, educational and spiritual publication which will concentrate on bringing the Society, its Members and Associates closer together. With this Togetherness' in mind, items of National Council Agenda business could well become a regular feature in the magazine. In the main, letters for publication will normally be from Twinning parties - regarded as reports. Other letters received will be accepted for publication with an added footnote or returned for discussion by the respective Council and/or President if thought to be more appropriate.
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In this Issue Page 3 National President’s Message Easter People Page 4 Notes from our Spiritual Advisor Being inspired by the past for the future. Page 5 Around the Dioceses Find out what’s happening around the country Page 7 Why I am a Vincentian Inspiring reasons for becoming a member.
Page 8 Youth News Learn about our active youth and their amazing work. Page 11 Vincentian Achievement A look at a few people and conferences who have reached a milestone in their contribution to the SSVP. Page 12 Twinning The latest information on twining project. Page13 International News Found out how the SSVP had made a difference abroad. Page 15 National Office Update Page 16 A Look at the Past & Obituaries
The Society of St Vincent de Paul, or SSVP, is a charity which operates in 148 countries and has around 750,000 members. It operates independently in each country but there is a large amount of cooperation between countries. Membership is open to men and women, young and old. The SSVP asks that members accept fully the Christian ethos, and are committed to express their love of God through personal service to their neighbour. The SSVP respects religious liberty and values of all people and offers help to anyone in need. The SSVP operates in branches, which are known as conferences, and are generally based in local parishes, schools or universities. They meet regularly to review their work as well as allocating future work in a spirit of prayer and mutual support. The work of a conference is usually concentrated on local visiting. However, other activities may include "special works", which serve people in a wider area or give more specialised help in a certain aspect of the work. In Scotland our 2100 voluntary members make about 150,000 visits each year. The distinctive feature of the SSVP is person to person contact. This is a fundamental part of the SSVP ethos, and so we do not make donations to any work in which members are not personally involved. Where appropriate we offer material or financial assistance to help those in need overcome crises and develop longerterm solutions to their problems, whilst also giving social, emotional and spiritual support.
Easter People What do the words Easter People mean to you? Here are some possible characteristics: •Enthusiasm •Energy •Hope •Courage
Enthusiasm A few weeks ago I was thrilled by the response of a young woman who had just received her Protection of Vulnerable Groups Certificate. She couldn’t contain her enthusiasm for becoming a fully active member of her Conference. After weeks of praying and talking with fellow members at meetings she was raring to go and visit local people. No doubt her spirit will be as inspiring to these housebound folk as it is to her Conference. The enthusiasm of the original Easter people attracted others to join them. Soon we will have the results of our member questionnaire. Perhaps we can identify this small but highly motivated group of young adults and encourage them to work together in order to find more of their friends who will renew our Conferences. Energy Do you remember the last time that your Conference or Council had a new President or other new office bearer? No matter how conscientious the outgoing person had been the new person approaches the role with a fresh drive. What energy the early Christians displayed, travelling huge distances to share their faith. Soon we will be able to identify which members have been in office for many years. Perhaps this is a good opportunity to energise our Conferences by ensuring that fresh office bearers take over. Our founders started with no experience and hence not all our office bearers have to be long standing members.
Hope Faced with an ageing membership and falling numbers it is easy for us to feel a sense of despair. How encouraging it was to hear recently about a Conference which was now in double figures after years of only one member. It took real hope for neighbouring Conferences to offer to help with the revival. Not quite the Resurrection but an example of The spirit of the Easter People. None of this can happen unless existing members of Conferences in difficulty place their hope in new members to take over rather than doing it alone. Courage Not long ago I was in Leeds and took the opportunity to visit some excellent SSVP projects, all based in the more deprived housing estates. Apart from our volunteer members I met local employees and even offenders working in the projects as their Community Service. To start and sustain such projects takes plenty of courage from the SSVP but the local communities all confirm how worthwhile they are. Courage for the first Easter People often meant risking their lives but courage for us Vincentians can mean engaging in new ways with local communities and cooperating with other statutory and voluntary groups Two thousand years on are we willing to be today’s Easter People? Michael Balfour
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VINCENTIAN REFLECTION In Pope Benedict's Lenten letter he invites us to reflect on the heart of Christian life Charity "Let us be concerned for each other, to stir a response in love and good works" This is a favourable time to renew our journey of faith, both as individuals and as members of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. This journey is one marked by prayer, sharing and good works in anticipation of the JOYS OF EASTER. Our hearts should never be so wrapped up in our own affairs that they fail to hear the cries of the Poor. As St Vincent said "Let your affective Love become effective" and Blessed Frederic's vision was to build a global network of charity. Let us reflect on the lives of some of the members of St. Vincent de Paul Society who have journeyed in faith, love and holiness through following in the Vincentian Way of life. Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati He was born in Turin, Italy on Holy Saturday, April 6, 1901 He died on July 4, 1925 at the age of 24; he was beatified by John Paul II on May 20, 1990. In 1918 Frassati joined Society of Saint de Paul. At the same time he decided to study mining engineering in order, in his words, “to serve Christ better among miners” At graduation from school, his father present him with a choice of money or a car . Pier Giorgio chose money and then distributed the gift to the poor. Bl. Contardo Ferrini He vowed himself to God, became a member of the Third Order of St. Francis in 1886, and was a member of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul to which he had been introduced by his father, a member of a conference. He was beatified by Pope Pius XII on 13 April 1947. His body is venerated in a chapel of Milan's Catholic University. He is a patron of universities.
Bl. Ceferino Giménez Malla (1861-1936 popularly called "El Pelé" ("the Strong One" or "the Brave One") El Pelé was born to to Juan Jiménez and Josefa Malla, a Catholic Gypsy family. Although Ceferino, like many Roma of his age, never learned to read or write, he gathered children informally to teach them Bible stories and basic prayers. He was a member of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul; he was martyred on 9 August 1936 in Spain. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II on 4 May 1997.
St. Gianna Beretta Molla (October 4, 1922 - April 28, 1962) born in Magenta (Milan), Italy was the 10th of 13 children. While a student, Gianna became a member of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. She obtained degrees in medicine and surgery from the University of Pavia in 1949 and the next year opened a medical clinic in Mesero (near Magenta). In her practice, she gave special attention to mothers, babies, the elderly and the poor. She died in child birth in 1962; she had chosen to save the child’s life rather than her own; she was canonized on May 16, 2004. These four members of the St.Vincent de Paul Society are inspiring and challenge us in the way of Vincentian holiness. I wish you all every blessing from the Risen Christ. Sr Eleanor Rogers National Spiritual Advisor
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Fun and Fundraising Roisin Madden has been a volunteer at the Ozanam Club in Viewpark for the last three years. She began attending the club when she was fifteen and continues to be passionate towards her work. Roisin loves going to the club and enjoys organising arts and crafts activities for the young adults. Last July Roisin decided that she would plan and organise a fundraiser for the club. She did this by speaking to her local priest Father Sweeney in St.Patrick's Coatbridge. He gave Roisin the use of the church hall and his service of DJ free of charge. Roisin then went round local businesses and asked for donations for her raffle. Bells food group donated pies and Roisin sold her tickets as a fun night with Disco, raffles, games, pies and peas! The event took place on 10th February 2012.
Roisin said it was a truly fabulous night and that she was overwhelmed with the generosity shown by local businesses, family and friends. The tears were flowing when Roisin presented a bumper cheque to Jimmy Lynch for an amazing £2020 “Winter Warmer" social event on the last two Saturdays in January. In total, 120 guests were treated to an afternoon of high tea and high jinks - singing, dancing, bingo and raffle – at the Crookston Hotel. The church choirmaster, Gerry, played keyboards and the choir and soloists entertained with a selection of (secular) songs which included the delights of a Glesca Hogmanay and high-flying jeely pieces! Everyone enjoyed their day out and no one left empty handed. There were Dan Cake Christmas logs and rum truffles for all who didn't have any luck in the raffle draws.
Celebrating 150 years Bishop John Cunningham and priests from across Galloway Diocese celebrated Mass at St Andrew’s Church, Dumfries, last Thursday, 150 years to the day since the first SSVP conference was established at the parish. The St. Andrew’s SSVP society was formed on February 2, 1862, by a small group of parishioners and it was also the first conference of the SSVP in the diocese Summary of an article and photograph from the Scottish Catholic Observer.
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The Society in action- handing out clothes for the poor at Jericho House, Edinburgh Perhaps many of our readers will know of Jericho Houses run by the Benedictine monks in operation throughout the UK, including one such establishment which is located in Edinburgh just off Bristo Square. Originally a Catholic church and friary founded in 1834, it closed in 1988 and reopened that same year as a care home service. The home or ‘wet house’ as it is called provides up to 20 single beds for both men and women with alcohol or mental health problems. It is run under the auspices of the St Benedict’s Works Conference headed up by the founder of the home Fr James Ferguson. Since it opened as a care centre the hall and front kitchen of Jericho House has also been used for the serving of hot food and the distribution of clothes to non-residents who have been made homeless and others similarly in need. Whilst the monks open up the facilities on Sundays some ten conferences in the diocese, supply the volunteer teams for both the kitchen and the clothes store on a rota basis. This has been organised for many years by Anne-Marie Douglas from our Society who sits on the committee of the works conference. While other conference provide group several times during the week to help with the soup kitchen, my conference based at St Mary’s Cathedral in the city centre provides the team for the clothes store every other Wednesday evening between 6pm and 7pm, we also have a team who sort out the donations and keep the store tidy, which is a pretty formidable task. The clothes are mainly donated by individual parishioners from throughout Edinburgh, or charitable organisations such as Fresh Start and occasionally by one of the big stores in the city centre, with some of the more glaring gaps made up by new purchases funded by the conferences. Particular items in demand include boxer shorts (does nobody like ‘Y’ fronts these days?), socks, jeans and belts. We are constantly amazed by the requests for white shirts needed for interviews and funerals of relatives by one or two of our more persistent regulars. There is a real mismatch too when it comes to size, since most of the donated goods comprise waist measurements over 34” and most of our clients are somewhat less than that! Rather tells its own story does it not? Over the last few years the profile of our visitors has changed quite significantly. Once they were predominately Scottish but increasingly they appear to come from Eastern Europe particularly Poland. Some speak very little English which can lead to some glorious misunderstandings, when for example; they are after clothes for the top half of an absent partner! All however are grateful, especially as you might imagine in winter time. A sense of humour is essential when serving behind the counter of the clothes store. An hour at the clothes store can, when it is busy, be quite exhausting, but often rewarding. Thanks to the generosity of individual parishioners and others around the city we have made life just a little bit more bearable for those in need. This indeed is Christianity in action and isn’t that exactly what our Society is about? Nick Ruck Keene President-St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh
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An atheistic group once asked Frederick Ozanam, “What are you doing today to show us the works, which proves the worth of your faith?” This question challenged him, because to answer truthfully, something would need to change. On reflection, Frederick realised that faith, is really about action, not academic debates. Frederick, on an impulse, said, “The blessing of the poor is the blessing of God. We must go to the poor”. With these words, the SSVP was born; the question answered and the challenge accepted. The question, “What are you doing today to show us the works which prove the worth of your faith,” challenged Frederick, who became instrumental in developing a remedy to that question. Frederick was an individual just as we are all individuals. Sometimes, as individuals, we think, “we cannot do what Frederick did, we are not like that!” That challenging question, which is very much relevant today, provoked Frederick Ozanam into using his skills and talents, motivated by his Christian Faith. Like Frederick, all anyone can offer are their own skills and talents; skills and talents motivated by their Christian Faith. As is often said, becoming a member of the SSVP is a vocation, a calling to serve Christ in the service of the needy. It is not the sacramental calling of the priest but it is never the less a calling. Bringing hope, friendship and encouragement to the needy in the community builds up the fellowship of the community, along with the faith and spirituality of all those helping in the work and all those helped. Yes, the SSVP is a worthwhile calling. Here are some reasons why I am a Vincentian… 1. The first thing about the SSVP is that it is a Lay Society, organised and administered by the Laity, very much in keeping with the Lay Apostolate as taught by Vatican ll. The priest or religious are spiritual advisors; they do not take part in the administering of the Society. The structure of the Society is a support for members. Conferences give aid to anyone irrespective of their country, class or creed. I find it interesting that John Paul ll was a member of the SSVP while a student in Poland. My reason for joining the Society of St. Vincent De Paul is quite simple. I was and always have been, like everyone else, influenced by the parable of the, “Good Samaritan.” The punch line always worried me, "Go and do likewise.” Mind you, it still worries me at times 2. The SSVP is a, “Spiritual” organisation. It is the member’s faith and practical way of following the Gospel message that reflects and inspires the work we do. It is from the prayers that we learn to, “never claim that our works springs from ourselves alone.” Prayers are an important aspect of our society hence; there are special masses throughout the year. Some members regularly attend weekly mass as “the Eucharist is the source of our Apostolate.” 3. The work of the Society is an important reason for being a part of it. The work of the SSVP consists of visiting the needy in their homes, hospitals, hospices and care homes. Person to person contact is a very important part of our work. Therefore, seeking out the needy becomes an essential part of the conference’s work. Any member will describe some story of how their involvement with those in need, made the members of the SSVP feel more appreciative of the person in need, rather than the other way around. The determination that we see in individuals that we help, the smiles and happiness that we see on the faces of the people we visit makes being a Vincentian a fulfilling vocation. The members of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul are ordinary people, doing ordinary things, following the gospel message, in the best way their skills and talents allow. I have shared with you, “Why I am a Vincentian.” It is a support for the Laity in doing acts of charity, it is a practical way of following the Gospel message; it develops spirituality and recognises the value of those helped: the work we do is important, as more people would suffer if the work stopped. Being a Vincentian is at times, very challenging, but oh! So worth- while. John C Sweeney SSVP Recruitment Officer Dioceses of St. Andrews and Edinburgh
Summary of the article ‘Why I am a Vincentian.’
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Exciting things are happening at Youth SSVP! We have lots of news to share, as well as great things happening. Happy reading! Clare Schools across the Dioceses of Paisley and Glasgow worked hard in the run up to Christmas to provide support for some of the poorest and most vulnerable people in our communities. Pupils from St Roch’s, St Ninian’s, Turnbull High school (all Glasgow), St Luke’s in Barrhead., Trinity(Renfrew) and St Andrew’s in Paisley have been providing support to various projects in Glasgow and Paisley. The Glasgow Ozanam Centre is staffed by SSVP members from across the Diocese, along with pupils from St Maurice’s High School in Cumbernauld and St Ninian’s High School in Kirkintilloch. Pupils from these schools have been giving their time for a number of years now, and have become valuable team members at the Ozanam Centre. Pupils from Turnbull High School and Our Lady and St Patrick’s High School have also started lending a hand recently. The SSVP group from St Roch’s High School in Royston recently visited the centre to deliver 35 boxes of items that they had collected before Christmas. Not only did they collect essential items such as winter woolies, toiletries and basic foodstuffs, but they also put a great deal of care and attention into making small Christmas gifts made up of bars of chocolate. St Roch’s group visiting Bernice Brady, SSVP Glasgow the Ozanam Centre Archdiocesan President said “the recipients of these gifts were not only delighted to receive them, but were touched by the time and effort that the pupils had put in. The Paisley Ozanam centre at Trinity and St Barnabus Church in the towns Moss Street provides a meal and a warm welcome every Wednesday and Friday evening to people who are either homeless or cannot afford a meal. Down to their hard work in working with the community, the volunteers receive great support from local schools and businesses. They generally welcome between 40 and 50 people each night. St Andrew’s, St Luke’s and Trinity High have all provided vital assistance to the Paisley centre, with funds being raised and clothing and food being collected.
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Trinity High upper school pupils with food to go to the Paisley Ozanam Centre
Pupils from St Luke’s are also giving their time on a Wednesday evening, and the pupils are keen to do all they can. Also in Glasgow is ‘Café Simon’, which is held every Sunday afternoon in the parish of St Simon’s in Partick. S4 pupils from Notre Dame High School have started to help out at this café, and have been very warmly received by both their fellow volunteers and those attending the café's Roch’s group visiting the Ozanam Centre Trinity High upper school pupils with food to go to the Paisley Ozanam Centre. As well as providing a warm welcome to the people who come through their door in need of a meal or some clothing, the people who are involved in these projects are wholeheartedly welcoming our young people, who are desperate to give back to their communities and help some of the poorest and most vulnerable people. The SSVP members and volunteers should be commended on their willingness and openness to having young people along to help out. The teachers should not be forgotten about in this scenario either, without whom SSVP groups in schools would not be possible. Youth SSVP are well and truly on the web! In addition to the website, you can become our friend on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, read our blog on Blogger and view our photos on Flickr! Links to all of these sites are on the website. youth.ssvpscotland.com Please get in touch with any feedback or items of youth news that you may have.
Recognising hard work The Caritas Award, launched by the Scottish Bishops' Conference in the wake of Benedict XV1's visit to Scotland, asks students in the final year of study at our secondary schools to demonstrate a commitment to their local community by contributing at least twenty hours of their time to activities or ministries in the parish which respond to those in need in their community. Over the last six weeks, the conference in St Lucy's in Cumbernauld has welcomed two senior pupils from Our Lady's High, Jennifer and Hollie. They were referred from their school, through the parish priest, Fr Joe McAuley. Both pupils have attended weekly meetings after Mass on Sundays, learning about the ministry and contributing when they can to the prayers, discussion and reflection. They have also been involved in visitation, mainly to one of the care homes in our area and participated in a very practical way at the Sunday Lunch Club at the Ozanam Centre in the Briggait. The involvement of both pupils with the conference continues to be very positive. Both Jennifer and Holly have welcomed the experience, providing as it gives a deeper insight and appreciation of the work of the Society, and of need in their own community. In their comments, they have remarked particularly upon the strong spirit and good humour they met on their visits, and how they were received. In their morning at the Ozanam Centre, they were very much taken by the courtesy and respect shown to them by our guests on the day and, once more, struck by the good humour shown by many of them, despite their troubles. For the conference, the presence and involvement of these young people has been a tonic. Their keenness to learn about our work and their willingness to give up their own time to join us on visitation has been most evident. They are not shy to speak up and join in our prayers and discussion. Their commitment is a credit to them, their teachers and parents When asked whether they were getting near to the target of twenty hours,
they said that they were almost there, getting near
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the target of twenty hours but were determined to carry on beyond that point. Good news for the conference; an example of commitment from our young people. The Caritas Award is organised by the Scottish Catholic Educational Service (SCES) and “asks young people to use their faith learning as a starting point or further faith reflection, leading to actions which show their faith witness.” The pupils are asked to write a reflective essay on their experiences. The Caritas Award participants will be presented with the award at the awards ceremony which will take place in the Clyde Auditorium in Glasgow in early June. School focus With the help of staff, pupils from Our Lady and St Patrick’s have begun to build close and meaningful relationships with their local community, on a wide scale. The school started off their conference by sending 8 pupils and a staff member along to the ‘Voice of the Poor conference in Coatbridge. As mentioned previously, the Dumabrton school have been assisting the Ozanam Centre, but they have been doing much more on top! Assisted by school staff, pupils from S1 to S6 have become involved in a number of projects, including visiting feeder primary schools to raise awareness of the school conference, (and encourage the primary 7 pupils to join when they make the move to Our Lady and St Patricks), visiting their local SSVP conferences, a Christmas hamper appeal, a Burns celebration for older people from the community and a coffee morning to raise funds for the Glasgow Ozanam Centre ! Not content with these activities, pupils from S1 and S2 are planning a visit to Robin House, where they will help with gardening, assisted by Ms Woods from the Maths department.
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Coffee morning
Distributing hampers Our Lady and St Patrick’s High School, Dumbarton
S1 and S2
2012 so far has been the year of training for me! In addition to the second module of the youth ministry studies course, I was given the opportunity to participate in a training course organised by V.I.P on the topic of social media and a 6 day training session by ‘Citizens UK’. The aim of this training course is to enable individuals to “strengthen civil society and work together with others for the common good.” There was also a focus on how to connect faith and values to practical action. I feel very fortunate to have taken part in this training and know that my work has been influenced by the lessons that I learned. As mentioned before, the second module of the Youth Ministry Studies course took place at the Gillis Centre in Edinburgh on the weekend of February 25th and 26th. This excellent module on the topic ‘Foundations of Youth Ministry’ was delivered by Hugh Foy and Michael Canning of the Conforti Institute. The third module, ‘Foundations for ministry leadership’ will take place on the weekend of May 12th and 13th. Places are available on this module for anyone who is interested in working with young people in their conference, parish or Diocese.
Bookings have started to come in for Camp Frederic 2012! Camp Frederic is for 14 to 18 year olds who are involved in some form of SSVP work at the time of camp. This year’s theme is ‘With my own two hands’. Planning is well underway and the leaders are all excited to welcome around 100 young people from around Scotland to Auchengillan. You can find more information and a booking form to download at youth.ssvpscotland.com.
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James Murphy celebrates 40 years as a Vincentian He has been an active member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul for 40 years. Over the years he has worked tirelessly for others and it is his unique strengths that have helped to keep the conference thriving. He has been consistent in devotion to the society by punctilious attendance at meetings and participation in their prayers. He has made a real difference to many people’s lives. You can always rely on him to see the positive side of any challenge and a solution to a problem. His friends and family talk about his keen sense of humour. Everyone at St Leo’s wish him many more years with SSVP. Jim writes: ‘When I was 35 years old, I was approached by Robert Michael, a member of St Leo the Great SSVP and was invited to attend a meeting. I decided to attend this meeting to find out more about the work of the Society. I was very impressed by what I learned. The support that the SSVP members give to people facing challenges in their day to day lives is just tremendous. When I joined I was a working dad with 4 young children and really did not have much spare time to give, however I felt that this was something I would make time for. Rita, my wife, was very supportive of my SSVP commitment and with her support I was delighted to become and remain a member. I really cannot believe that after 40 years I am still fully involved with the SSVP. I am proud to be part of this organisation and get so much in return from doing my bit. I thoroughly enjoy making regular home and hospital visits and supporting families who are facing financial difficulties. I was president for many years and led the conference in its work to serve others. As a Vincentian I try to remember that a listening ear can be more important than giving money. It has been a pleasure!’ Bridget Devlin, Jim’s colleague in home visits, writes: ‘Since joining St Leo’s SSVP I have been very fortunate in being paired with Jim for visits to hospitals, nursing homes or the housebound. Jim’s gentle nature and sense of humour are appreciated by the people we visit, and it makes us aware of the loneliness and suffering of so many, and also aware of how blessed we are which we never forget in our prayers.’ On behalf of the SSVP Scotland I would like to congratulate and thank Jim Murphy for his contribution to our organisation. I would also like to thank Mrs Margaret Donegan, Christine Carroll and Father Gerry Fitzpatrick for putting together this article.
Papal Blessing marks dedicated Service to the SSVP St. Teresa’s parish in Dumfries recently marked the retirement of Bill McLaughlin the president of its SSVP conference, who stepped down from his post after 52 years of service to the society. After joining the conference at the nearby St. Andrew’s parish as a young man in 1958, Mr McLaughlin continued his work with the SSVP at St.Teresa’s after moving to the parish in 1971. His dedication to the society saw him serve in every office in the conference until his recent retirement. To thank Mr Laughlin and in recognition of the hard work he has performed for both the parish and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the St. Teresa’s community presented him a Papal Blessing, while his wife Margaret, received a bouquet of flowers and a small gift for the couple to enjoy. The presentation to Mr. McLaughlin was led by incoming conference president, Joe Smith, as well as Fr. Jim Hayes, St Teresa’s parish priest.
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Looking for a Twin Like most members of an SSVP conference you are at this time of the year no doubt involved in preparing for the annual audits at the end of the financial year. Invariably the problem is a pleasant one, not a lack of money as is often the case, but a need to use up any surplus money that you have in the kitty before the end of March 2012. I receive from time to time calls at this time of year from conferences asking me if I can suggest possible ways of using up this money by contributing to worthy causes relating to our twins in India, S. Africa and Hungary. I am well aware that almost every conference in Scotland already is twinned with a conference in either India, or S. Africa and contributes ÂŁ120 as an annual twinning fee. However over the last months I have received a request from India to find 15 new twins for conferences based all over India who do not have a twin. At the National Council meeting I have publicised this but so far I have only received one reply. May I make a special appeal to all conferences that if they are able to take on another twin either in S.Africa or particularly India that they contact me as soon as possible. As you know we set up a National Project Fund to which our Scottish conferences can contribute. Whenever we gather enough to fund a project we then send off the funding to the SSVP National Council of India who then allocate this funding to cover the costs of a particular project. As a result of our funding many poor families and small rural communities who live in extremely deprived areas are able to survive. The cost of each project is about 60,000 Rupees (about ÂŁ800) and their funding is totally dependent on the generosity of our Scottish conferences. I am pleased to say that in January I sent off to India funding for 9 projects varying from goat and cow banks, tailoring machines, fish vending house repairs . May I thank everyone who has contributed to the Fund to make this possible. However I am still in possession of several project applications which are awaiting funding. I can only rely on your continuing kindness and generosity Ian Tierney Twining Officer twinning@ssvpscotland.com
Beneficiaries and members present at the distribution of goats from the project fund at St. Mary's Conference Nakapushe.India
The letter below was submitted by Terry Meehan, President of Immaculate Conception Conference, Maryhill Glasgow. They received it from their twin in Kerala India. Greetings from Kerala, India. We the members of the Holy Family Conference, Mannila, Changanacherry, Kottayam, Kerala are happy to wish you all a Merry X’mas and a Happy New Year. We hope and pray that this letter will find you all in good health and happiness. We are currently constructing one house this year, in collaboration with Changanacherry Social Service Society. They will give a financial support of Rs.50.000 per house. The total cost for a house is Rs 2, 00, 000. We hope to collect the balance amount from our parishioners and well wishers. We are planning to continue this project for the next three years. During this year we supported 32 families for food security and 45 members are provided with medical assistance. Also, we could support 6 families for the maintenance of their houses. We are extending financial support to 21 families for the maintenance of their houses. We are making family visits every week. We are sure that your support and prayers are initiating in to do maximum support to the deserving families in our area irrespective of caste, creed or religion. We are all offering prayers for all the brothers there and wish you the blessings of almighty God. Thanking You all for your partnership and support.
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We are pleased to inform you that we have been officially admitted as an UN-NGO member of ECOSOC under the category of Special Consultative Status with no voting rights. Vincentian Abroad This letter was send to Michael Brennan by Fr Joseph thanking all the SSVP Conferences who had a collection towards the purchase of a Pick-Up Truck for his work in Yendi Diocese in Ghana.
The appeal was made in August of last year at the time when my sabbatical in Scotland was coming to an end. Happly while my stay in Scotland was coming to an end, one of you, Michael Brennan agreed to come to Ghana with me for two months. His two months stay, work and interaction with the people in Ghana gave him first-hand information of the situation presented in the write-up for the appeal last August and which will be documented in his Blog Page in the weeks and months to come. His Blog Page is available on the link http://www.volunteermentalhealthghana.tumblr.com Your generous response with a tremendous donation of One thousand, four hundred and ninety pounds roads, the truck is certainly something I am looking forward to, and it will enhance my work in the parish enormously. With your donation and other donations received while in Scotland and from a friend in the Netherlands, I was able to pay for a Nissan 4x4 Pick-Up Truck in the amount of $28,648.09. The Company, Japan Motors Trading Company Ltd promised to deliver the Truck next month. However, with all these donations there was still a shortfall of £2,350 which the Diocese gave me as a loan. I shall send you pictures of the truck as soon as it is
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delivered Be assured that your Catholic sisters and brothers in the Catholic Diocese of Yendi and most especially Bimbilla will always be grateful to you. I will continue to carry fond memories of the Conferences of West Lothian and remember you all in my prayers. I celebrated thanksgiving Masses for you all after receiving the money in November 2011.
Dear Members of the SSVP, West Lothian, Greetings from the Catholic Diocese of Yendi, Ghana West Africa and most especially St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bimbilla. I am forwarding this ‘Thank You’ letter through Mr. Michael Brennan a member of the SSVP in West Lothian and in the Archdiocese of St. Andrew and Edinburgh to you in appreciation for your response to an appeal made for donations towards the purchase of a Pick-Up Truck for my work in this part of the world.
Best wishes and may God bless you all. Yours in Christ, Fr. Joseph Kofi Sukpe.
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Vincentian Challenge Raises More Than $500,000 to Enable Haitians To Put Themselves on the Pathway to a Better Life It will be a happy 2012 in Haiti for about 350 new families who will enroll in Chemen Lavi Miyò (CLM), a poverty alleviation program that translates into English as "Pathway to a Better Life." An effort led by the International Vincentian Family has raised $520,000 so far that will enable more than 2,000 Haitian parents and children to create a fresh start in the New Year. In partnership with Fonkoze, an alternative bank for the poor in Haiti that runs CLM, the Haitian Hometown Associations Resource Groupand Zafèn, a micro-credit resource that funds entrepreneurial business and social projects, the Vincentian Family (VF) launched a fund-raising initiative on the Feast of St. Vincent (Sept. 27) that ran for three months at zafen.org. The goal was to raise $100,000 online, which would then be matched by another $100,000 provided by the Franz Foundation. "Initially, we were hesitant about seeking such a large amount online, since our biggest match up to that point had been $30,000," said the Rev. Robert Maloney, C.M., who has until now served as chair of the Vincentian Family Board for Haiti. "But we decided to try to 'stretch.'" The Rev. Joseph Agostino, C.M., assumed the chairmanship of the board at the end of January. Among the many donors who supported this effort, the international branches of the VF were "wonderfully generous," according to Father Maloney. On Christmas Day, online contributions reached $100,000, which was doubled to $200,000 by the match. "This is by far the biggest match we have done through Zafèn, so we're delighted," Father Maloney said. Meanwhile, the USA Vincentian priests and brothers were involved in an offline match offered by the Franz Foundation and the USA Western Province. In late December, that, too, was fully funded at $100,000, which also doubled to $200,000. Contributions are still being sent in. As of Jan. 31, 2012, more than $520,000 has been raised for this program that reaches out to Haitians living on the margins of society in the self-empowering way that Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac served people in seventeenth century France. "On one of my first trips to Haiti, I visited CLM," said Father Maloney. "I found it one of the most impressive works that I have seen in the country." Families chosen to participate are usually headed by women with several children, who may be malnourished and are not enrolled in school. The family's health needs are not addressed by professionals, and the family has no reliable source of income. When a family commits to the 18-month CLM approach, they receive construction materials to build a house with a sturdy roof and a floor. They also build a separate and sanitary latrine. They gain access to free health care, a water filter and receive weekly visits from a case manager, who reinforces what they have learned to ensure progress along the path to prosperity. The children may for the first time in their lives attend school, while the mom chooses several ways to earn an income through a micro business or an agricultural enterprise. All the while the mom learns skills for life that build her confidence in her ability to guide her family out of poverty and weather inevitable setbacks. Within a year and a half the family can graduate from the program if the mom and her children are properly nourished and food secure, the house has a good roof, the mom has proven successful in at least two incomegenerating activities and the family has assets of at least $150. The final criterion for success is that the mom believes that she can stay on this path to success and has a plan for an economically stable future. The program has a 96% success rate.
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Zafèn, which means "It's our business" in Haitian Creole, was developed on the 350th anniversaries of the deaths of collaboration between Haiti-based business owners, the Haitian Diaspora and others interested in supporting the Haitian economy. It is unique in its criteria because businesses must demonstrate an anticipated impact on the broader community from the loan or donation by hiring more employees, operating more efficiently, becoming more environmentally friendly or other measures. Zafèn was founded by the International Vincentian Family, DePaul University, Fonkoze, Haiti's alternative bank for the organized poor, and the Haitian Hometown Associations Resource Group. This article was sent to us by Joseph Agostino, C.M.VF Coordinator for the Haiti Project
Should we amend the SSVP (Scotland) Internal Statutes to allow Conferences to admit non-Catholic Christians to Full membership.In September 2010, following a discussion by the SSVP Trustees, the Bishop Conference of Scotland discussed the possibility of “non-Catholic Christians" becoming members of the SSVP. Cardinal O’Brien then stated in a letter that “the Bishops are sure that you will be acting according to your own core rules and Constitutions in investigating this matter, of who can become a member of the SSVP.”
We are now asking all of our members in conferences and councils around the country to discuss the proposed amendment to the Internal Status, taking account of Part 1 of the SSVP Rule. We request that you send us your reasons for or against this amendment in writing to the National Office by 13th July 2012. The National Council will then discuss the reasons and decide whether to approve the amendment.
L-r Nigel Brown, Clare Carr and Ian Riddell
Youth Development An appeal was recently made by our Youth Development Officer for individuals each diocese who would be willing to create a National Youth Development Committee. The aim of this committee is to create more structure in the youth development programme , give local and regional perspectives and share ideas and experiences Aberdeen East president Ian Riddell forwarded this appeal to the Conference Presidents and we are delighted by the fact that Nigel Brown has volunteered to represent Aberdeen East. We are still looking for volunteers from the other Diocese, and would be delighted to hear from anyone who is interested by either contacting Clare Carr or your Diocesan President.
Challenges & Solutions. We are hoping to start a new column where you can write to us to let us know the challenges that you face while carrying out your Vincentian vocation as well as how you found a solution to a challenge. We hope that your story will inspire your fellow members in their work. Let us remember that the problems we face are similar but not everyone has the solution. Your story could provide the solution to someone else’s problem, so please share it with the rest of us. Please send your article for this section as well as any article that you would like to see in the next edition of the Ozanam news to Vanessa Fernandes at communication@ssvpscotland.com For more information on News & Events please visit our website www.ssvpscotland.com
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“A Look at the Past…” this Souvenir was brought out on the occasion of 125 years of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Bombay , India in 1988. The then President of the SSVP Scotland Jim Robb send a letter congratulating the conference on its completion of 125
Obituaries It is with deepest regret that we announce the following deaths. May their souls rest in peace. NAME
DESIGNATION
CONFERENCE
DIOCESE
TONY HANLON
FORMER PRESIDENT
ST. MARGARET'S, DUNFERMLINE
ST A & E
AGNES BOYD
TREASURER
ST MARY'S, RATHO
ST A & E
JAMES MARLEY
PRESIDENT
ST PAUL'S, SHETTLESTON
GLASGOW
KATHLEEN O'KANE
FROMER SECRETARY
IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY , BALORNOCK
GLASGOW
MICHAEL MCGOWAN
FORMER MEMBER
ST ANDREW'S, GREENOCK
PAISLEY
DAVID MCGHEE
FORMER MEMBER
ST JOHN'S, CUMNOCK
GALLOWAY
HARRY MCCANN
ACTIVE MEMBER
ST PETER'S, EDINBURGH
ST A & E
JOYCE HUGHES
FORMER MEMBER
ST. JOHN'S, PORTOBELLO
ST A & E
ARCHIE DOCHERTY
ACTIVE MEMBER
OUR LADY OF LOURDES, CARDONALD
GLASGOW
JACK DOUGAN
FORMER MEMBER
ST FRANCIS, DUNDEE
DUNKELD
WILLIE WHYTE
ACTIVE MEMBER
ST LEONARD'S & ST FERGUS, DUNDEE
DUNKELD
BUNTY WARD
DUNDEE GROUP SECRETARY / CONFERENCE PRESIDENT
ST COLUMBAS, DUNDEE
DUNKELD
NEIL CORD
FORMER MEMBER
ST PATRICKS, DUNDEE
DUNKELD
BILL SCOTT
FORMER GROUP PRESIDENT / FORMER CONFERENCE MEMBER
OUR LADY OF VICTORIES, DUNDEE
DUNKELD
JIM McLEAN
FORMER MEMBER
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, DUNDEE
DUNKELD
FRANK McDERMOTT
FORMER MEMBER
ST. MARY'S, INVERNESS
ABERDEEN
RONA DORIAN
FORMER MEMBER
OUR LADY OF LOURDES, CARDONALD
GLASGOW
ALICE O'HANLON
FORMER TREASURER
ST MARGARET'S, CLYDEBANK
GLASGOW
MAURICE ANTHONY OLSEN
FORMER ARCHDIOCESAN TREASURER
ST. MARGARET’S, DUNFERMLINE
ST A & E