The
M.U.S.E.U.M.
A magazine of the Society of Christian Doctrine, founded by Saint George Preca
Issue 11 March 2012
The
M.U.S.E.U.M. Copyright © 2012 Society of Christian Doctrine, Australia Region
The spirit and vision of George Preca The M.U.S.E.U.M. is issued biannually for friends and associates of the Society of Christian Doctrine in the Australian Region. M.U.S.E.U.M. represents the first letter of a prayer in Latin, Magister Untinam Sequatur Evangelium Universus Mundus translating Divine teacher, may the whole world follow the Gospel.
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Mark Micallef sdc Email: markmicallef@optusnet.com.au
Gymnasium for the Spiritual Life A spiritual handbook by George Preca
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Declared a Saint on the Day of His Death Recollections of St George Preca
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Making a Difference Sister Pauline Staunton rsc
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Under the Grill With Most Rev. Adrian Doyle
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Ikebana: Liturgy Of Love St George Preca - Unofficial Patron Saint of Podcasts Saintly People Sister Consuelo Morales
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SDC Around the World Reflecting on a Memorable Visit to Oz
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50th Anniversary of the Death of St George Preca
Cover Funeral procession of St George Preca through the streets of Ħamrun, Malta, 1962
CONTENTS ISSUE 11 MARCH 2012
Editors Peter Judge sdc Email: pljudge@optusnet.com.au
This magazine is online at www.sdcprecaoz.org
Gymnasium for the Spiritual Life A spiritual handbook by George Preca In a culture where fitness and well-being are being given priority as never before, presenting the quest for spiritual perfection in terms of working out in a gym should be all the more appropriate. However this metaphor, related to spiritual life as combat, dates back to the early centuries of Christianity, even to the Bible itself, and has been touched upon by mystics, spiritual masters and artists alike. Saint George Preca, an avid reader of Saint Paul and the Church Fathers, would have been familiar with this view of spiritual life. Indeed, the metaphor of spiritual life as combat is found throughout his writings, but nowhere does it strike the reader more clearly than in his Gymnasium for the Spiritual Life (1996), issued in Maltese as Gymnasium Spirituale. Ginnasiu Spirituali ghall-uzu tall Papidi u tall Papidissi fit-taħriġ tall Parrinija in the early 1930s. The working metaphor in this book is that of a wrestler who turns up at the gym, session after session, in order to strengthen his chances of overcoming his adversaries. The gym instructor is Christ himself who, speaking in the first person, directs the athlete as to how he should prepare himself to wrestle with
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Gymnasium for the Spiritual Life, 1996 edition
temptation and ultimately with himself. This is reminiscent of what St John Chrysostom (c. 347-407) writes: “In the Olympic combats the judge stands impartially aloof from the combatants, favouring neither the one nor the other, but awaiting the outcome. He stands in the middle because his
judgement is impartial. But in our combat with the devil, Christ does not stand aloof but is wholly on our side. He anointed us as we went into combat, but he fettered the devil… to keep him shackled hand and foot for the combat. But if I happen to slip, he stretches out his hand, lifts me from my fall, and sets me on my feet
Happiness cannot be travelled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude . D. Waitley
again. (Baptismal Instructions III, 9) Gymnasium for the Spiritual Life was intended to be a handbook for spiritual direction, an exercise Fr Preca considered indispensable in one’s journey towards spiritual maturity. This explains why some 45 chapters or “instructions” in the book deal with how one should “combat” particular temptations, for instance: “How to combat temptation against faith” (Session 24) or “How to combat when tempted to neglect your prayers” (Session 59). The approach is practical, based on common sense and the observation of human nature as much as on the Scriptures, Church teaching and the spiritual masters. Other chapters deal with spiritual direction itself: “The core of spiritual direction” (Session 7) and “How a person seeking spiritual help should communicate with his spiritual director” (Session 89), and the various aspects of the interior life.
source of enlightenment for whoever decides to take the uphill struggle for perfection. What Fr Preca is after, in a nutshell, is the creation of a new self in the image and likeness of Jesus Christ. Joseph Buttigieg sdc
The ultimate aim of the book is to help the reader reach “the eternal heavenly haven”: “Imagine that you are alone in a boat tossed by rough seas and struggling to reach the eternal heavenly haven. There is no way you can make it unless you direct yourself well with the use of the two oars of silence and patience. Without them you will undoubtedly lose and will find yourself in great danger of being wrecked.” (Session 3) The book calls for a modern interpretation, and the reader must take into consideration that Fr Preca was influenced by other spiritual masters, not least by Thomas á Kempis who adopts a rather pessimistic outlook on life and the world in general, something which people nowadays are likely to fail to understand. This poses a challenge to anyone who undertakes the task of going through the 100 instructions of the Gymnasium for the Spiritual Life. However, Fr Preca does not present the body and the senses as weapons in the hands of the enemy. He rather suggests one should use them to become like Christ in thought and deed. Read in the context of modern views about virtue, the book becomes an invaluable
Original Gymnasium for the Spiritual Life, undated and printed in Maltese between 1929-1935
I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven - for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little . Luke 7:47
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Declared a Saint on the Day of His Death Recollections of Saint George Preca
Saint George Preca often preached that ‘we will not be on this earth forever’ and on the shortness of life. With the Summer sun setting, Fr Preca passed away on the 26th July 1962. His funeral was a testimonial to his life as thousands of people flocked to catch a final glimpse of the man so well loved. Many recounted extraordinary stories about him, and were ready to proclaim his sanctity. People spoke of the mysterious power which passed from him to others at the touch of a hand, leaving them strangely calm and peaceful. As we prepare to commemorate the 50th anniversary our beloved saint’s entry into eternal life, we pause and reflect on the life of Fr Preca and impact that he had on the lives of so many people.
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The wise man does not lay up his own treasures. The more he gives to others, the more he has for his own. Lao-Tzu
Alfred Mallia formed the nucleus of the SDC gather each day after their daily work, teaching the children and then gather for prayer and study. During the day, they are guided by hourly prayers which Fr Preca designed to help those in the workplace to be reflective.
It is an honour for the Maltese to have one of our own declared a Saint. This holy priest, St George Preca was a man who worked in the vineyard of the Lord, changing Malta from religious igno ra nce to r elig ious awareness. Since the foundation of the Society by St George Preca, almost every Maltese over the past hundred years, has had an opportunity to learn their faith in preparing for the Sacraments of Penance, the Eucharist and Confirmation. Many continue attending the SDC gatherings beyond this into their teenage years. The men and women, who
Fr Preca’s legacy is great indeed! He managed to collect large crowds to listen to the Word of God. He mingled with everyone including the poor and needy. When he died, Malta was in mourning - this priest who worked for a long time for the spiritual wealth of all had been taken from us. Malta bid him goodbye. Following his death, the SDC remained strong, because there was a sound foundation. The Members continued teaching drawing from the Founder’s particular spirituality especially his emphasis on humility and right intention.
Master, "Go into all the world and teach and baptise”. The Society, following the wish of the Founder, spread from the Maltese shores and continues with new missions in many countries far away. Members of the Society proudly wear the badge with the words: "Verbum Dei Caro Factum Est” and greet each other with the words “Peace be with you”. For us who lived during the life of St George Preca we still affectionately know him as “Dun Ġorġ Preca tal-Mużew” 1 Alfred Mallia, Cathecist Qormi, Malta _______________________ 1. The SDC in Malta is known as tal-Muzew. Translation – The Museum. Taken from the first five latin letters of the dictum of the SDC: Magister Utinam Sequatur Evangelium Universus Mundus - Divine Teacher, may the whole world follow the Gospel.
The Society continues to fulfill the command of the Divine
Paul Vella On Thursday 26 July 1962, we learned of the sad news that Dun Ġorġ Preca had died. “Dun Ġorġ the Saint has died”, was on everybody’s lips. Everyone in Malta knew this priest as a humble and holy man. I spent my early childhood attending the gatherings of the Society of Christian
Doctrine at the centre in the suburb of Gzira. As a young boy I attended receiving my first Christian education, leading to my First Holy Communion, and later on to my Confirmation. I used to attend every day, from Monday to Friday, along with a large number of young people.
Nothing that was worthy in the past departs; no truth or goodness realised by man ever dies, or can die. Thomas Carlyle
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While most of the youngsters after the Sacrament of Confirmation did not continue the evening religious classes, my parents kept on sending me and I used to enjoy this. Later on, when I was growing up, I was placed in a higher class under the guidance of Peter Sammut and Laurie Formosa. Peter died from an accident while building the Society’s headquarters at Blata l-Bajda. I remember that every other Wednesday, Laurie used to take us to the central house of the Society, to attend a talk by St George Preca. As a young boy, I felt that this person was not ordinary - an aura surrounded him. I admit now, most of the times I was nervous during the talks as I used to believe that he could see through the minds and hearts of those present. I enjoyed his talks, even though many times he repeated the same short stories so that we will understand his teachings. They were good talks and I enjoyed them and, going home, I was reflective trying to remember and understand the details. When he died, I no longer had a formal connection with the Society. By then, I met my wife Salvina who, incidentally, had also grown up in the Society at the Qormi Centre1. We married in 1965 and migrated to Australia. Salvina and I both treasure the upbringing we had in the Society and all we learnt. This, we feel, has made us better persons… better parents. We always confess that those early years of ours brought up in the teaching of the Church were the best years of our lives. Those teachings are still in our minds… in our hearts… and when possible we put them to practice. Our daughter was brought up in the same way and always attended Sunday Mass with us. Now that she is married with two girls, they also attend church and have the love of God in them. We acknowledge St George Preca in this fiftieth year of his death who founded the Society of Christian Doctrine in Malta, and helped to spread the teachings of Christ to one and all, in Malta and other countries throughout the world.
SOCIETY OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE
PRECA CENTRES Regional Centre 82 Westmoreland Road Nth Sunshine, Victoria 3020 Tel: 03 9364 9765 Fax: 03 9364 9765 Email: sdcpreca@optusnet.com.au
New South Wales
Tasmania
Carss Park
Hobart
3 Bunyala St Carss Park, 2221 Tel: 02 9546 1232 Fax: 02 9594 0724
500 Sandy Bay Rd Sandy Bay, 7005 Tel: 03 6225 1646 Fax: 03 6225 5080
Rooty Hill
South Australia
46 Rooty Hill Rd Sth Rooty Hill, 2766 Tel: 02 9625 3753 Fax: 02 9625 3765
Adelaide 96 East St Brompton, 5007 Tel: 08 8346 7683
Victoria Altona Meadows
Deer Park
39 Talbot St Altona Meadows, 3028 Tel: 03 9360 0199 Fax: 03 9360 0199
797 Ballarat Rd Deer Park, 3023 Tel: 03 9363 8960 Fax: 03 9363 8960
Ardeer
St Albans
13 Lorna Cres Sunshine West, 3020 Tel: 03 9363 4717 Fax: 03 9363 4717
29 Rosslare Pde St Albans, 3021 Tel: 03 9356 0734 Fax: 03 9356 0734
In the meantime, here in Melbourne, I would like to praise the Members of the SDC for their ongoing hard work, both men and women sections. I am always willing to help them when they need public notices to be aired on our programmes on 3ZZZ, and I thank them in assisting me in preparing the reflection for the Sunday’s Gospel featured on my radio programme. Paul Vella
1. There are separate sections for men and women both founded by St George Preca, with separate administrations who work closely together but with the same lifestyle.
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Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal. Martin Luther King Jr
Privileged to have served ! Making a Difference Alan Gauci’s story (part 2) “I was in prison, and you came to see me.” Sister Patricia Marie (Pauline) STAUNTON, is a member of the Congregation of the Sisters of Charity of Australia. Sister Pauline has been the Administrator of Chaplaincy Services, Corrective Services NSW since 1988. Her work in prison ministry began in 1956. Prison Visitation over the years includes Long Bay Prison, NSW, Risdon Prison in Tasmania and in the Philippines. In 2006 she was awarded a Queen’s Birthday Honour – The Order of Australia (OAM) for her services to inmates, staff and families in Corrective Services and education. She continues to have a strong interest in the International Commission for Catholic Prison Pastoral Care (ICCPPC) and the International Prison Chaplains Association (IPCA) as well as maintaining her full time position as Administrator of the NSW Chaplaincy Service and as a member of other related committees. 1. The Sisters of Charity have maintained Prison chaplaincy since their foundation in Australia. What was the original influence that urged them to embrace this ministry? Serving the needs of the poor is central to the vocation of a Sister of Charity. In addition to the Vows of Chastity, Poverty and Obedience, we make a fourth Vow “to devote our lives to the Service of the Poor”. Men and women in prison are often amongst the “poorest of the poor”…..so in 1821 in Ireland the governor of the Kilmainham Gaol requested the presence of the Sisters to visit two young women convicted of murder and sentenced to death. Two willingly visited the girls, spoke and listened to them…brought them to peace of mind… assisted them to be reconciled to God and remained with them until they were led away to the gallows.
Soon after the arrival of five Sisters of Charity in Australia, their first Foundation was a little cottage in Parramatta near the womens’ prison…the Female Factory, where women worked breaking stones and sawing wood. The Sisters visited the Female Factory and ministered to the women with care and compassion and without judgement, teaching them Gospel values and the practical things of life to assist in their rehabilitation. This pleased the governor who then granted the women the privilege of receiving small wages and replaced the hard labour with laundry and needlecraft activities. Later the Sisters visited the Darlinghurst Gaol often assisting those awaiting execution. Other Gaols included those in Tasmania, NSW and Victoria. St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne has for many years cared for the medical needs of
Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens. C G Jung
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prisoners and there has been involvement more recently in detention centres. Their care reaches beyond the walls to families and victims of crime, not forgetting that justice must be served. To this day, prison ministry is very important to the Sisters of Charity. 2. What were your early influences that drew you to prison ministry? For three years after Profession – 1956 to the end of 1958 I accompanied an older Sister, Maurus Tierney, who among other things was involved in prison ministry…..she spent the weekdays at Long Bay and I accompanied her on Sundays for Mass which was celebrated by an MSC priest Fr Dallas Cox and then later Fr Edward Kelly, who became Bishop of Toowoomba. Maurus had an extraordinary love for the poor and especially the poor who were incarcerated. Her commitment inspired me. Up to 200 would attend Mass. The men downstairs and the women seated in the choir loft. I came to have a special interest in prison ministry and meeting the men and women who were incarcerated for various reasons and who often had “no voice but ours” in regard to justice and rehabilitation. I was a Primary Teacher during the week and visited Long Bay on Sundays. In 1959 when I was transferred to Hobart to teach, I continued my prison ministry at Risdon Gaol each Saturday up till the end of 1968 when I was transferred back to Sydney. I accompanied another Sister and a St Vincent de Paul brother. 3. Australian Catholic Bishop’s Social Justice Statement for 2011 was ‘Building Bridges, Not Walls: Prisons and the Justice System.’ At what stage is prison reform at in Australia and did you have any influence on decisions made on reform? I had the opportunity to meet briefly with those who were involved in drafting the document. Ideas and comments were shared and some used in the document “Building Bridges not Walls”….. I had sent my own comments prior to that meeting. I wrote of the justice system, what I thought were
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Sister Pauline with the Coordinator of Chaplaincy, Rodney Moore. International Prison Chaplains Association Conference Sweden, 2010
inadequacies and what I felt to be the needs that should be addressed. I was with a very special group of Chaplains whose ministry brings them into daily contact with the men and women who are incarcerated in a system that is often harsh and inhospitable. Fr Peter Carroll MSC, the Catholic Chaplain to Long Bay was very much involved in preparing material for the Document. 4. In our parishes and our communities, how can we tangibly make a difference for those in prison and seeking bridges to a new life? In some states there is little Catholic prison ministry. That needs to be addressed. A Chaplain has a very important role in a prison setting but he or she is also able to meet with the community, encourage them to be involved and explain the needs of inmates…very often the most difficult time for an inmate is when he or she is about to return to the community. Often the person has little finance, no accommodation, struggles with addictions and so often ends up returning to gaol. A “mentoring” programme would be very helpful for some men/women being released. Assistance in r egard to find ing accommodation would be most helpful. The establishment of more Community Chaplaincies, like that which works so well in Newcastle would be wonderful.
Trust in dreams, for in them is the hidden gate to eternity. Kahlil Gibran
Members of our Society, are often very fearful of ex-prisoners and so are not willing to become involved in any way. We must not let that fear be the cause of a barrier. 5. You were in Hobart from 1959 to 1968. This was a significant time in the life of the Church following Vatican Council II with Hobart being a forerunner especially in liturgical changes. Are you able to recall some of these changes during your time in Hobart ? Archbishop Guilford Young was present at the sessions of the second Vatican Council.”Gilly”, as we affectionately called him, gave much of his time to introducing both Religious and Laity to the Documents of Vatican 11. We spent many weekends at meetings and seminars organised and led by him. The vernacular in the liturgy was a very big change….and changes were made in the churches as altars were moved or turned around bringing the priest closer to and facing the people. The laity were encouraged to read the scriptures at Mass. New religious hymns were written and published and the Laity were more involved in the life of the Church. There was a different approach to the presentation of Religious instruction in the schools. In the school where I was Principal, we introduced senior classes to School Camps where some intensive teaching took place for 3 or 4 days….the Eucharist….Reconciliation were celebrated in a meaningful and relaxed atmosphere. 6. Religious life has a different face today. What are your thoughts about the place and purpose of religious life in a post-Vatican II Church ? The number of women and male religious has decreased in recent years. No one knows what the future holds…..maybe there will be a renewal but probably not in the numbers we experienced in the past. We don't see things as they are; we see things as we are. Anais Nin
Sister Pauline at Government House having received The Order of Australia (OAM)
There seems to be a huge increase of vocations in the developing countries. With the recent increase of people from Asia for example, Australian Orders are receiving men and women from Asian countries into their novitiates. Bishops are recruiting priests from India and Africa. Is this a good idea? I really do not know but I’m sure it is not a “bad idea”. In the early history of Australia there was a need for Religious to minister in schools, hospitals and child care centres. More often than not the religious were at the forefront of the Catholic education system, welfare agencies and Catholic hospitals. In latter years the religious trained excellent lay persons to work in a variety of ministries and government agencies became more involved. There will always be, I am sure, some form of Religious Life, there will be women and men who wish to join communities, minister, and live a Vowed life. What the future holds, I am not sure about… but I have great faith and trust that God will continue to provide in ways that maybe we have never dared to dream about.
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Under the Grill with Most Rev. Adrian Doyle On 26 July, 1999, Adrian Doyle was consecrated as the tenth Archbishop of Hobart. He celebrated his 50th anniversary of ordination in 2011. Over the years, the Archbishop has had contact with the SDC in Hobart, personally knowing and working with the Members in various parishes. He attended the Canonisation of George Preca in 2007. The Archbishop retires this year. We wish him well in his retirement. 1.
You are the first Tasmanian-born prelate for the Hobart archdiocese. What advantage was this in understanding the dynamism and position of the Church in Tasmania?
There have been many advantages, and a few disadvantages arising from the fact that I was born here in Tasmania and appointed as the 10th Archbishop of Hobart. The advantages relate to having already a good knowledge of the parishes, of the priests and religious and of many of the people who play a special part in the parishes, the schools etc. I also was acquainted with many of the leaders in the community. I had been involved in a programme of renewal known as RENEW in the three years, 1990-92, and I also was instrumental in beginning another initiative which carried the title of Call to Change (1999-2001) The disadvantages were more of a personal kind, that people knew me in a former role, and did not always make the adjustment that it is a different situation when one becomes a bishop – more responsibilities, not so readily available, commitments on the mainland etc. 2.
For the SDC and yourself, your remote predecessor Sir Guilford Young, offered much to both of us. In particular, how has he influenced you in your approach to the role as local bishop?
Archbishop Guilford Young was my Archbishop for the greater period of my time as a priest before becoming a bishop. He was a person with great vision, a strong communicator, and one of those people who make an impact on all those he met. One element of his episcopacy which I have tried to follow faithfully was the regular visitation of parishes, including visits to the elderly, the schools, and the nursing homes. I have also followed his example of regular visits to the prison. He had a deep understanding of the Liturgy and of his role as Bishop/Celebrant, which I have tried to follow. 3.
You have presided over a period of changing dynamics and nature of the local Church. What might be the characteristics of that?
Although there were signs that the number of priests was decreasing prior to my becoming Archbishop, the process certainly accelerated in my early years, with retirements, deaths, departures from the priesthood. The number of those offering to train as priests has been very small, although it has now begun to improve. I believe that there is a need for a more collaborative style of ministry, with more people trained to assist in parishes, especially in circumstances where a priest is not always available. The situation in Tasmania overall is very static, with many people forced to move interstate for work. That leads to a disruption of families, communities, and also in parish life as well.
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Only Love Creates. St Maximilian Kolbe
The previous Superior General of the SDC, Victor Delicata addresses the assembly at an SDC gathering in Hobart in 1985. Father Adrian Doyle (second from left) and Archbishop Guilford Young were present.
4.
Although much reduced the SDC has been able to maintain its ministry in Hobart for fifty years now. For us this has emerged into tangible support and acceptance within parishes. Do you have any recommendations for us into the future in Hobart?
I have always been impressed by the faithful ministry of the SDC. I personally had associations with the Society from the time when I was the Assistant Priest in the Parish of Bellerive. The Members conducted classes and activities for children from the Housing Department subdivisions. Then when I became the Parish Priest of Sandy Bay-Taroona Parish in 1974, I met up with the Members who resided at Preca House in Sandy Bay. Many of them attended the weekday Mass in the parish before going off to their employment. I have seen some changes, in terms of numbers of M embers, and numbers of children, but still the SDC continues to make a good contribution, especially among the young people in the outer areas of Hobart.
Thank you Archbishop Doyle for sharing these thoughts with us. In everything give thanks....... 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Adrian Doyle with Natalino Camilleri, the current Superior General of the SDC
5.
Are you able to share with us any of the high points of being pastor, from any period of your life?
I think of my time as a priest which covers 50 years, as being a very special privilege, of being able to celebrate the sacraments, and to be part of the special moments in the lives of so many people, times of joy, times of sorrow, times of celebration. As a bishop I have had the opportunity to meet the Popes, to attend special gatherings in Rome. I as there at the time when the founder of the SDC was declared a saint in 2007. No matter what the circumstances, the contribution of the priest remains the same – to preach the Word, to celebrate the Sacraments, and to serve the community. 6.
What plans do you have for your retirement ?
When I retire, I will live privately for as long as that is possible. It will be good to be able to take more time to pray, to read, to reflect on the Scriptures, and to give a hand in parishes upon request. I believe that it is very important for a retired bishop to adopt a low profile and to give as much support and freedom to the new bishop as possible.
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Ikebana: Liturgy Of Love Myriam England has d e ve lo pe d a Ch r is t ia n version of the Ikebana Art of flower arrangement. After years of study in Japan under the great masters of this spiritual art, Myriam has produced a beautiful style or floral arrangements in liturgical settings. Myriam shares her art technique willingly in liturgical settings. In Japan, flower arrangement is a major art-form connected w it h Zen B u d d h is t philosophy. Myriam’s original transformation of a deep, Buddhist philosophy medium into a vehicle for a Christian anthropological vision and quasi-mystical insight has aroused a great deal of interest. An art form which originated around the 6th century, ikebana was originally practiced as a ritual offering made to the heavens by Buddhist monks. These days the once exclusive art of ikebana has developed into an art form practiced by many. Unlike floral arranging practiced in Europe and the West, the more spiritual Japanese approach aims to capture the wonder of nature on a smaller scale.
oneself as a communicative art form. Each arrangement should describe the arranger’s emotions and character as well as work in harmony with the environment in which it will be displayed. Another striking contrast between Japanese floral arrangement and its western and European counterparts is that each composition focuses on working in asymmetry, f o l lo w i n g a triangular framework.
Ikebana is more than making the flowers look attractive; it is really about expressing
Among many liturgical and sacred space settings, Myriam has been able to
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There is more to life than merely increasing its speed. Gandhi
work with some of the SDC chapels that have been designed by her husband, Richard England. The rustic settings of the chapels provide for this particular art style to flourish. Rev Professor Peter Serracino Inglott, Philosopher and former Rector of the University of Malta and Myriam have complied a book on Myriam’s work: Ikebana Liturgy of Love - the Art of Myriam England, MRSM (Malta). In this book, Prof Inglott provides deep and contemplative reflections on Myriam’s artwork.
Development involves giving up a smaller story in order to wake up to a larger story. Jean Houston
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SDC Central House Chapel – Marsa, Malta Photographer - Peter Bartolo Parnis
SDC Chapel – Naxxar centre Photographer - Peter Bartolo Parnis
Left and Below SDC Chapel – Samaritan Home, Qormi, Malta Photographer - Peter Bartolo Parnis
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To dare is to lose one's footing momentarily. To not dare is to lose one's self. Soren Kierkegaard
St George Preca Privileged to have- Unofficial served ! Patron Saint story of Podcasts Alan Gauci’s (part 2) Two trainee priests from Oscott College in Birmingham, UK, have decided to adopt an unofficial patron saint of podcasts for their very successful Vocationcast series, produced and directed by seminarians for all those discerning their call in life. The dynamic duo, Dan Fitzpatrick, a youth worker before he entered the seminary (currently in his fifth year at Oscott) and Frankie Mulgrew, a former comedian, (also in his fifth year and soon to become a deacon) began Vocationcast in September of last year as a response to Pope Benedict’s call for priests to engage with the digital age. Explaining why they felt the need to adopt an unofficial patron saint for their work, Dan and Frankie said, “We pray before we record and at other times too, asking the intercession of St Maximilian Kolbe who is associated with media. However, we recently looked for a patron saint of podcasting who we could ask for intercession. We were shocked to discover that there is no saint associated with podcasting. So we began to look at saints’ lives to see if one would be suited for podcasting. We came across St George Preca, a Maltese priest involved in spreading the Gospel.” St George Preca, founder of the Society of Christian Doctrine, worked unceasingly to spread the values and teaching of the Gospel in the Maltese islands until his death in 1962. He wrote a great number of books and manuscripts dating back to 1909. A man of great energy and dynamism, he would often spend late nights preparing his sermons or writing books and pamphlets. A large amount of his writings included catechisms in Maltese, translations of the Bible, books on the spiritual life and teaching materials for catechists.
They continued, “It is for these reasons that we ask St George to pray for podcasting, a modern media format that can be used effectively to preach the Gospel and be a ‘voice of the beloved’ to all people. We pray that he will be the patron of all podcasters, so that his example may inspire and encourage their efforts of communicating to mass audiences.” You can listen to their Vocationcast series and support their cause on: Web:
www.vocationcast.org, or on
iTunes:
itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/ vocationcast/id465913373
He was undoubtedly a great apostle of the Gospel, referring to the teachings of Jesus Christ as “The Voice of the Beloved”. Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33
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Seeking Justice forserved Mexico’s Privileged to have ! Disappeared Alan Gauci’s story (part 2) Sister Consuelo Morales her work cut out for her. Many people have come to rely on her to speak out about abuses by the military and to say what they would be afraid to say themselves.
Source: Los Angeles Times
Sister Consuelo Morales has seen the number of people in Monterrey, Mexico, who are tortured, killed, or “disappeared” climb sharply in the four years since Mexico’s president unleashed the military to combat drug cartels. Sister Consuelo has taken the lead in demanding justice for the victims of this violence. The 63-year-old Roman Catholic nun is one of Mexico's most indefatigable and effective defenders of human rights. She, and her human rights organisation, Citizens in Support of Human Rights (CADHAC), has been documenting human rights v io la t io n s that w o u ld otherwise not be investigated, as the
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authorities often blame the victims, saying they must have been criminals themselves. Families ask her to help find their loved ones who have “disappeared,” feeling they have nowhere else to turn. Standing barely 5 feet tall, with a small silver cross hanging from her neck, Sister Consuelo is fearless and passionate. With a resonant voice, she visits dangerous prisons, overcrowded with gang members, and tracks down illegal detention centres where victims are held in solitary confinement. Although authorities tell her she’s entering at her own risk, she goes in anyway. It is this endeavour that has
Sister Consuelo took her final vows to become a nun in 1992, and initially sought to work with indigenous communities. But soon she decided that the place she could have the greatest impact was her native Monterrey, which at the time had serious human rights problems without a local organisation to help the victims. Sister Consuelo has been running CADHAC for 18 years, and has addressed a wide range of serious issues, from abuse in state-run orphanages to the forced displacement of people from their land. Sister Consuelo was born in Monterrey, an industrial hub and Mexico's wealthiest city, which until recent years had escaped the worst of the drug war. But by 2009, the notorious Zetas gang moved in and fought for territory. Gun battles in broad daylight, roadblocks manned by cartel gunmen, people staying in their homes — these became the norm in the once-peaceful metropolis. The situation became
A chief event of life is the day in which we have encountered a mind that startled us. Ralph Waldo Emerson
saintly people dire when on 25 August 2009, cartel henchmen set fire to a crowded casino where middle-aged women were playing bingo; 52 people were killed. The federal government dispatched an additional 1,500 troops to Monterrey and the surrounding states in Operation Scorpion, a move welcomed by many business people desperate to save Mexico's most important economic centre but condemned by activists such as Sister Consuelo. Since the military entered Monterrey’s drug wars, human rights violations have risen dramatically – yet almost no soldiers or police officers have been held accountable for their crimes. The failure to investigate these crimes has dire consequences for local communities. However Sister Consuelo and her organisation are documenting these violations, litigating key cases, and spearheading public campaigns to demand justice. The organisation has also provided critical assistance for victims – both of the security forces and the cartels – such as psychological treatment and support groups. On a personal front, mothers whose sons were last seen being hauled away by police, seek Sister Consuelo’s counsel. She leads marches and confronts state governors and detectives. And every two weeks, she and other advocates walk down to the prosecutor’s
People walk past symbolic chalk outlines in Nationwide protests against Mexican President Felipe Calderon's war on drug cartels that has claimed more than 37,000 lives since late 2006.
office, past soldiers posted at government buildings, demanding justice and helping victims file the kinds of complaints the authorities would rather not see: about the disappeared, the slain, the tortured, allegedly at the hands of police and soldiers. Her cause is simple – all people ought to be able to live with dignity and without fear. Intimidation, imprisonment and even killing of human rights activists have been common occurrences in Mexico according to groups such as Amnesty International. Dozens of rights advocates have gone into hiding or sought protection. Sister Consuelo is not immune to this. She has assumed her leadership role at considerable risk, persevering in her efforts despite repeated harassment and threats. On one occasion, someone deposited
Neither fire nor wind, birth nor death can erase our good deeds. Buddha
four cats at her office door, all with their throats cut. “They were telling us to be quiet or we'd be next,” she says. That was 14 years ago, and she is still anything but quiet. Against all odds, Sister Consuelo continues her courageous efforts to end impunity for security forces and aid victims of abuses in Mexico’s “war on drugs.” It was a crisis of faith that drew her to the field of human rights and it is for this reason that she persists with it for “Working in human rights allows me to confirm my faith, every single day, …” (Tracy Wilkinson / Los Angeles Times). In 2011, Sister Consuelo was honoured with an Alison Des Forge Award by Human Rights Watch (HRW) for “putting her life on the line to protect the dignity and rights of others”.
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Reflecting on a Memorable Visit to Oz Tonio Caruana is the Moderator of the Society of Christian Doctrine (SDC). Residing in Malta, one of his roles is to conduct pastoral visits to all countries where the SDC has an active ministry. During the Christmas and New Year period of 2011/2012, Tonio had the opportunity to visit Australia. He shares with us his reflections from his visit. When you tell friends that you are about to visit Australia, invariably they tell you that they wished they Tonio Caruana facilitating a seminar at the Annual General Meeting could come with you. Visiting Australia when it is winter in be that many people do not from the very beginning. Europe means that you are profess their faith in the about to enjoy some warm The programme for this 5 traditional way anymore, yet weather and spend evenings day gathering incorporated I found the messages that by the sea-side; eating some several meetings, these singers were giving as mouth-watering meat and discussions, conferences and very deep, sincere and seafood. celebrations. The place genuine. where we met was also I reached Melbourne early in The days after Christmas ideal, because apart from the morning of Christmas were going to be busy days meeting all the logistical Eve. Late in the afternoon, for all the SDC Members. needs for such an event, it before going to the Midnight Everyone was looking was situated close to the Mass, I watched Carols by forward and preparing for heart of the beautiful city of Candlelight, a concert that is the Australian Region’s Melbourne. followed by thousands of Annual General Meeting Australians, not just in The first morning of the first (AGM) which brings together Melbourne but all around the day was dedicated to the SDC Members from across country. I was struck by the introductory addresses. The Australia where the SDC testimonials many of the message of the Superior ministers. singers were giving. Some of General set the tune for the them were generic in their I was very happy to sense AGM for it delivered a sense comments, but others were the feel-good factor that of direction, invited the very direct in witnessing to reigns among the Members. Members to reflect on their their faith in Jesus. If as The dynamics, the joy and calling as SDC Members and many say, Australia is not a the friendly exchanges challenged each present to religious country, this between those present live up to their vocation. As I p r o g ra m me m a de me exhibit a bond that is the baread this message, I felt that believe that the Australians sis of this community. This the Members were fully are innately spiritual. It can enabled me to feel at home engaged, as if one could
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If there must be trouble let it be in my day, that my child may have peace. Thomas Paine
sense that the message was hitting home. During the gathering, I was invited to lead several conferences based on themes linked with the 2009 General Chapter. The first was titled Vision as a Result of Understanding Identity. The main thrust of this talk was to share with my audience the need that if we were to be affective in our ministry (mission) we need to be in touch with who we are; our identity. As a group, we believe that our Founder received an insight by the Holy Spirit to start a Society whose Members were to reflect a particular aspect from the life of Jesus. Thus it is only if we live this call with fidelity that we can enrich the Church and be of service to those who come in contact with us. During the AGM, the Members were offered periods of quiet time, so that they could reflect on what was presented and then come back to discuss, seek clarification, and above all share their views, concerns and suggestions. The second conference that I delivered during the gathering was a proposal - in order to be in touch with the present reality, one first needs to know the tools of how to analyse the present situation. As the Society, we live in a ’fluid’ Society and if we are to enter into a dialogue and minister to it, we need to find the language that enables this communication to happen. This is a very
challenging and difficult task. The third conference was directly related to vocations. The theme was Roots and Fruits. There must be a generation of young adults who have been in touch with us through the years and given the grace of God, could embrace the SDC charisma and live this particular life style. How are we to nurture and cultivate a vocation? What kind of ongoing formation are we to provide to those interested in the SDC life so as to discern the will of God for them? My last formal contribution during my short visit was a one day seminar for SDC Leaders. At this seminar, we first spoke about one’s spiritual journey and how a person grows from one stage to the next. The basis of this theme was a few lines from John’s Gospel (Jn 1: 35-39). Next we looked at a method of how one should present the Theology of the Seven Sacraments. This is very important for the reason that the SDC in the Region is actively involved in facilitating the preparation of the sacraments at a parish level. Following this, the group discussed an article, entitled The Shape of the Church to Come - Renewing, Liberating, Flourishing – Timothy Radcliffe O.P. In this challenging article, the author speaks at length about how the Church, over the centuries, was influenced by what was happening in the political, social and economical world. Today, the
People are lonely because they build walls instead of bridges. Joseph F Newton
Tonio Caruana with the Regional Superior of Australia, Angelo Abela, cutting a cake to commemorate 50 years of the Regional Centre
Church is called to reflect and see where it is heading so that it can continue to offer a prophetic voice to the world and people of today. Fr Radcliffe writes that the Church should continue to be especially for those who have drifted away: A moral vision founded on the virtues, inviting everyone, whoever they are and whatever they have done, to begin the journey home to God. It neither locks outside nor accepts the ethics of society. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend the time I had with my SDC friends in Australia. I will treasure and cherish the generosity, kindness and openness which I have experienced. Tonio Caruana sdc
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50th Anniversary of the Death of
ST GEORGE PRECA
MELBOURNE Pilgrimage to the Monument of St George Preca Sunday 22 July 12:30 pm St Patrick’s Cathedral 1 Cathedral Place, East Melbourne
Memorial Mission: The Impact of St George Preca Tuesday 24 July 7:30 pm (Dinner at 6:00 pm) Victoria on the Hyde Hotel 188 Hyde Street, Yarraville
Eucharist Adoration Saturday 28 July 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Preca Centre 82 Westmoreland Road North Sunshine
George Preca Mass Sunday 29 July 3:30 pm St Mary Star of the Sea 33 Howard Street West Melbourne
ADELAIDE George Preca Mass Friday 27 July 7:00 pm Nazareth Senior College 1 Hartley Road, Flinders Park 22
Those whose hearts are pure are temples of the Holy Spirit. St Lucy
Society of Christian Doctrine
founded by St George Preca