Laity of the Chevalier Family
LAY MSC NEWSLETTER
May 2017
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be everywhere loved
INDEX
Page 1 From the Director Fr Jim Littleton MSC
Page 2 Remembering Michael Phelan and Ron Lane
Page 3 Farewell from Treand – Bernadette Phillips
Page 4 A Tribute to Marie Menihinnitt – Fr Vince Carroll MSC
Page 4-6 Homily of His Holiness Pope Francis Easter Vigil April 2017
Page 6 Some Good News – Fr John Mulrooney MSC Provincial
Page 7 Parish Leader’s Gathering September 2017
Page 8 Reminders
From the Director
Greetings to all of you in various parts of the country. I hope that Easter was a time of grace and blessing for you. In this newsletter I wish to share with you another reflection that has been prepared for Lay MSC by Fr Hans Kwakman in Issoudun. It is titled: May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be everywhere loved.
His love for the Sacred Heart of Jesus led Fr. Chevalier to honour the Sacred Heart
in a variety of manifestations and to study them as well. In his book on the
Sacred Heart, he describes the heart of Jesus as the centre of God’s plan not only
in redemption, but also in creation: “Jesus Christ is the starting point, the centre
and the summit of the whole of creation… Everything is summed up in Jesus. And
in Jesus everything leads back to his Heart” (Sacre Coeur de Jesus, 1900, p.77).
Concerning the creation of human beings, Chevalier declares: “When God made
the heart of the first human being evidently his attention was fixed on the Heart of
his Son, which the Holy Spirit would have to form later from the blood of a Virgin”
(Sacre Coeur de Jesus, 1900, p. 139). Accordingly, his love for the Sacred Heart of
Jesus and its role in creation brought Chevalier also to highly esteem the place of human
beings in creation. In Chevalier’s vision all things are made not only for Jesus Christ,
but for us as well.” All things are made for us and put at our disposal’” Such nobility, however, brings about responsibility. On behalf of all creatures, “It is our task to sing the hymn of thanksgiving, to lend them our voice, our heart, our faculties in order to give
glory to God. Without us the universe would be mute, but with us everything in nature
turns to heaven, prays, adores.” (Retraite de huit jours selon la method de Saint Ignace,
Issoudun 1904, p. 22; Daily Readings March 2).
In Laudato Si, Pope Francis proclaims the same message: “When we can see God
reflected in all that exists, our hearts are moved to praise the Lord for all his creatures
and to worship him in union with them” (Laudato Si n 87). The Pope even broadens our vision by stating that, “a sense of deep communion with the rest of nature cannot be real
if our hearts lack tenderness, compassion and concern for our fellow human beings” (Laudato Si n. 91).
So, the motto of the Chevalier Family, “May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be everywhere loved”, expresses an invitation to practice a love without boundaries. We are invited
to love the Sacred Heart of Jesus as the centre of the universe, making the entire
universe into a sacred community of creatures. The life of our fellow human beings and
nature in its great variety of creatures as well, is sacred and deserves our respect and
admiration. Because, as Pope Fancis said: “as part of the universe, called into being by
one Father, all of us are linked by unseen bonds and together form kind of universal family,
a sublime communion which fills us with a sacred, affectionate and humble respect” (Laudato Si n. 89).
Some of our older members have passed on to an eternal reward in recent months. They include Marie Menhinnitt, Michael Phelan, Ron Lane, and Van Trompf. They were all very committed members, loving in their relationships with others. Short obituaries occur elsewhere in this newsletter. May I also remind you of the Feast of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart on May 27 and the Feast of the Sacred Heart on June 25. May they be times of grace for all of us. Jim Littleton MSC
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Remembering Michael Phelan
John MICHAEL Phelan was born 3rd August 1931 in County Carlow in Ireland. At age 18 he moved to England, and then migrated to Australia in 1950. This debonair Irishman, who loved to dance, had his heart stolen by a young “Scottish” maiden, Elizabeth McDonald. Yet Mickey had to wait four and a half years before they could wed.
As a young couple with a growing family, they settled in the suburb of Heathmont, near to the Croydon Monastery; this was the start of a long association with the MSCs. Mickey worked in hospitality, and was the source of hospitality to the MSC. The door was always open to those who needed a chat, a laugh (guaranteed with Mickey), a “tease”, a cup of tea or something stronger, and if Liz was around, a truly listening ear.
Michael’s working life was in accounting and club management in Melbourne, until he came to Toowoomba to work for the MSCs. In 1978 Michael, Liz and family moved to Toowoomba and settled right across the road from Dowlands College. Here with the children growing up, Michael became more involved not only with the MSC school life, but also more into the MSC ethos. While Liz worked as a teacher / counsellor, Mickey was busy working for the school at The Green Griffin, running a weekly fund raising Bingo, driving a school bus and running the school bookshop. He continued with his open door welcome and hospitality for all the MSCs.
2008 saw a radical change in Michael’s circumstances. He had a large stroke which left him with a left-sided paralysis. So began 8 years in which Liz became his career. After the initial adjustment, Mickey could get into the car / wheelchair etc, and go places and do the shopping outings with Liz. However ongoing smaller strokes caused Michael to become more dependent on assistance. He was no longer the “doer”, though his welcome and hospitality continued.
To talk about Michael, and not talk about Liz, is to tell only half the story. Liz “stole” Michael’s heart way back in 1956, but even in his older age, his heart belonged always to Liz. In the last few months of his life, it was always her name on his lips. and the deep spirituality of the heart and of love, enveloped them both. Michael was totally absorbed into that love on 11th June 2016. Meg Hicks
Remembering Ron Lane
Ron Lane grew up in Randwick parish and met his wife Faye through the Randwick CYO. Initially Ron worked as a motor mechanic, but later joined the Police Force. In this capacity he was required to give evidence in court, which led him to think of becoming a Barrister. After six years of study he was admitted to the Bar; until his retirement he worked in this profession both in private practice and in the Public Service.
Ron’s faith was central to his life. He regularly read and reflected on passages from the Bible. Both he and Faye had many friends among the MSC and they became Lay MSC in 1987. They were welcomed into the Cronulla group and later became its coordinator. Fay and Ron had a very loving relationship; Ron will be remembered by his friends for his goodness, decency and generosity
Ron died on April 4, 2017 at the age of 87, after a long battle with cancer. May he rest in peace. Pg2
Farewell from Treand
This is my last Lay Newsletter before I retire at end of July. I feel sad in some ways but happy and excited in another sense. It’s the next stage in my life. I am looking forward to more spare time to spend with my adult children, grandchildren and my elderly mother who turned 94 on 2nd April. She is remarkably well for her age….she has a few mobility problems but mentally she is very sharp and still able to enjoy and participate in family celebrations and all activities at her Home at Kildare Maroubra Jct.
I expect in retirement my babysitting services will be in demand and I hope to be available “sometimes” for school pickups and school excursions!! With both parents having to work these days to meet financial commitments it is hard on young families trying to meet all demands. A grandparent can never substitute for a parent but sometimes it is the next best option…. and I get to spoil them!!! My grandparents played an important role in my childhood so I hope I am able to follow their example. I also plan to travel and I’m keen to explore some interests and hobbies.
It’s been a wonderful journey with the MSC over the past twelve and a half years and I’ve really felt part of the Chevalier family. It’s not like any other job, although my previous position with the De La Salle Brothers as Provincial Secretary for sixteen years was similar in so many ways. I was sad to leave them too but in 2005 they were relocating their Provincial Office to Bankstown and it was too far for me to travel. As a single mother of three I had to find another job and by chance Fr Paul Browne an msc working in Our Lady of the Rosary parish at Kensington at that time was visiting his neighbours the De La Salle Brothers. When I told him I was leaving he said that the Provincial Secretary at Treand House was also leaving!! He suggested I apply for the Provincial Secretarial job with the MSC at Coogee…… I took his advice and the rest is history!! I’ve been blessed with unexpected job opportunities that have come my way and I have enjoyed working with religious men, Brothers and Priests, for almost 30 years now. I hope the years ahead are filled with joy and satisfaction and good health. I live locally so I intend to maintain my friendship and connection with the MSC as I have done with the De La Salle Brothers.
Happy Mother’s Day for Sunday 14th May. Bernadette Phillips
For the one who has lost a mother
For the mother who has lost a child
For the one who longs to be a mother
You are not forgotten this Mothers Day
You are in our prayers and we love you.
REMINDER :Any occasional Report/News from your Lay MSC Group is most welcome. This Lay newsletter is my last one but I’m sure whoever takes over my role here as Secretary at Provincial Office will appreciate & welcome your contributions to the quarterly Lay newsletter. Email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Thank you to all those who have contributed over the past 12 ½ years during my time.
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A Tribute to Marie Menhinnitt – Fr Vince Carroll MSC
The funeral for Marie Menhinnitt was held in Toowoomba on Wednesday 15th Feb. She was 81. Marie had a massive unexpected heart attack and died two days later. All the living family were with her and she was able to greet them. Marie and Bryan had seven children, but sadly two had pre-deceased them, one as an infant and one at age 50.
The funeral was held at St Anthony’s where they had been parishioners in their early family days. A large crowd was in attendance with people of several of Marie’s interest or work groups. A book club was there, members of the Toowoomba Pastoral Care Team, Lay MSC and Parish co-workers and friends. Fr Vince Carroll MSC, a good friend of Marie and her family was the celebrant.
We could sum up Maries life as “loving and serving God with her whole heart, soul, mind and strength.” (Deut 6:4). Marie and Bryan shared their time and money (“their strength”) widely though their open hospitality, and their work for St Veronicas Children’s Overseas Aid Group for 60 years. They personally have sponsored many children and worked in the Op shop in various roles. That hospitality of spirit was likewise expressed round the home table or with a picnic basket. Throughout her life, Marie continued to improve her “mind”, gaining a Teachers certificate in Pre School Care, and later a Teaching Certificate for Secondary Education. Later again, she studied for a Diploma of Pastoral Care and worked in Pastoral Care for several years. In her later years she was a voracious reader. Geography and history and outdoor activities gave her joy. She was totally proud of her Family History which she had well researched.
Her “heart and soul” was expressed in her dedication to family and friends. Marie and Bryan have a large extended family. In later years especially they called them together for weeklong family gatherings at Christmas and Easter. Marie was interested in everyone and showed that interest in casual meetings as well as long term friendships. Part of her curiosity led her to travel to England, India, South Africa, New Zealand, the Pacific and the USA.
In recent years and months friends and family had noted forgetfulness in Marie, yet amid a considerable amount of pain and anxiety with unexplained ills, a certain “peace” had grown in Marie: Acceptance had grown. God was comforting her. One can only assume that, having completed his work in Marie, God has now called her to his home, to stands joyfully in his presence.
Homily of His Holiness Pope Francis
Easter Vigil, 15 April 2017
“After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb” (Mt 28:1). We can picture them as they went on their way… They walked like people going to a cemetery, with uncertain and weary steps, like those who find it hard to believe that this is how it all ended. We can picture their faces, pale and tearful. And their question: can Love have truly died? Pg 4
Unlike the disciples, the women are present – just as they had been present as the Master breathed his last on the cross, and then, with Joseph of Arimathea, as he was laid in the tomb. Two women who did not run away, who remained steadfast, who faced life as it is and who knew the bitter taste of injustice. We see them there, before the tomb, filled with grief but equally incapable of accepting that things must always end this way.
If we try to imagine this scene, we can see in the faces of those women any number of other faces: the faces of mothers and grandmothers, of children and young people who bear the grievous burden of injustice and brutality. In their faces we can see reflected all those who, walking the streets of our cities, feel the pain of dire poverty, the sorrow born of exploitation and human trafficking. We can also see the faces of those who are greeted with contempt because they are immigrants, deprived of country, house and family. We see faces whose eyes bespeak loneliness and abandonment, because their hands are creased with wrinkles. Their faces mirror the faces of women, mothers, who weep as they see the lives of their children crushed by massive corruption that strips them of their rights and shatters their dreams. By daily acts of selfishness that crucify and then bury people’s hopes. By paralyzing and barren bureaucracies that stand in the way of change. In their grief, those two women reflect the faces of all those who, walking the streets of our cities, behold human dignity crucified.
The faces of those women mirror many other faces too, including perhaps yours and mine. Like them, we can feel driven to keep walking and not resign ourselves to the fact that things have to end this way. True, we carry within us a promise and the certainty of God’s faithfulness. But our faces also bear the mark of wounds, of so many acts of infidelity, our own and those of others, of efforts made and battles lost. In our hearts, we know that things can be different but, almost without noticing it, we can grow accustomed to living with the tomb, living with frustration. Worse, we can even convince ourselves that this is the law of life, and blunt our consciences with forms of escape that only serve to dampen the hope that God has entrusted to us. So often we walk as those women did, poised between the desire of God and bleak resignation. Not only does the Master die, but our hope dies with him.
“And suddenly there was a great earthquake” (Mt 28:2). Unexpectedly, those women felt a powerful tremor, as something or someone made the earth shake beneath their feet. Once again, someone came to tell them: “Do not be afraid”, but now adding: “He has been raised as he said!” This is the message that, generation after generation, this Holy Night passes on to us: “Do not be afraid, brothers and sisters; he is risen as he said!” Life, which death destroyed on the cross, now reawakens and pulsates anew (cf. ROMANO GUARDINI, The Lord, Chicago, 1954, p. 473). The heartbeat of the Risen Lord is granted us as a gift, a present, a new horizon. The beating heart of the Risen Lord is given to us, and we are asked to give it in turn as a transforming force, as the leaven of a new humanity. In the resurrection, Christ rolled back the stone of the tomb, but he wants also to break down all the walls that keep us locked in our sterile pessimism, in our carefully constructed ivory towers that isolate us from life, in our compulsive need for security and in boundless ambition that can make us compromise the dignity of others.
When the High Priest and the religious leaders, in collusion with the Romans, believed that they could calculate everything, that the final word had been spoken and that it was up to them to apply it, God suddenly breaks in, upsets all the rules and offers new possibilities. God once more comes to meet us, to create and consolidate a new age, the age of mercy. This is the promise present from the beginning. This is God’s surprise for his faithful people. Rejoice! Hidden within your life is a seed of resurrection, an offer of life ready to be awakened.
That is what this night calls us to proclaim: the heartbeat of the Risen Lord. Christ is alive! That is what quickened the pace of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary. That is what made them return in haste to
tell the news (Mt 28:8). That is what made them lay aside their mournful gait and sad looks. They returned to the city to meet up with the others. Pg 5
Now that, like the two women, we have visited the tomb, I ask you to go back with them to the city. Let us all retrace our steps and change the look on our faces. Let us go back with them to tell the news… In all those places where the grave seems to have the final word, where death seems the only way out. Let us go back to proclaim, to share, to reveal that it is true: the Lord is alive! He is living and he wants to rise again in all those faces that have buried hope, buried dreams, buried dignity. If we cannot let the Spirit lead us on this road, then we are not Christians.
Let us go, then. Let us allow ourselves to be surprised by this new dawn and by the newness that Christ alone can give. May we allow his tenderness and his love to guide our steps. May we allow the beating of his heart to quicken our faintness of heart.
FR JOHN MULROONEY, PROVINCIAL
Some good news….
I recently sent a letter to all the parents of students in our MSC schools at the end of the ‘Catholic wrap-up’. There has been some lovely response from parents. Here is one of them:
“One group of victims we sadly seem to forget is the great majority of wonderful innocent priests, brothers and sisters who have given their whole lives to helping others and who are among the best people in our communities.
Where do we ever hear or see anything in the media praising and supporting those individuals who must have been suffering so bravely and often alone amongst us. Most of us lay people are too embarrassed to broach the subject and come out strongly saying we support those wonderful people. I often imagine them sitting alone trying to find the strength to continue. They must often feel embarrassed and stressed by what has been happening and perhaps find it hard to face the outside world.
I really support them and my faith is actually enhanced by their great courage. To be honest I think I am fortunate to have personally known so many great priests, brothers and sisters….. I think we lay people should have the courage to tell the priests, brothers and sisters we know, that they have our support.”
I know many of you feel this at times – so it’s heartening to hear these words which are spoken to us all.
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Parish Leaders
Gathering
St Mary’s Towers, Douglas Park
Friday evening 15th Sept 2017– Sunday afternoon 17th Sept
Gathering time – 6.00 pm Friday
Departure – 1.00pm Sunday
‘ The parish is where the Church lives. Parishes are communities of faith, of action, and of hope. They are where the gospel is proclaimed and celebrated, where believers are formed and sent to renew the earth. Parishes are the home of the Christian community; they are the heart of our Church’
National Conference of Catholic Bishops – USA
You are invited to a weekend of prayer and reflection, with a focus on Heart Spirituality as a way to transform our own lives
and the lives of others.
Contact: Alison McKenzie Fred Stubenrauch
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REMINDER
The annual donation of $10 per address is much appreciated.
Please forward
TO: Missionaries of the Sacred Heart
Fr Jim Littleton msc
PO Box 84 DICKSON ACT 2602
If you have not already done so.
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Fr Jim Littleton MSC
National Director, Lay MSC Lay MSC Newsletter
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LAY MSC NEWSLETTER
February 2017
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus
be everywhere loved
INDEX
Page 1 From the Director Fr Jim Littleton MSC
Page 2 Diversity – Bernadette Phillips
Page 3 Build Bridges of Understanding – Pope Francis
Page 4 Shifting Values – Fr John Mulrooney msc Provincial
Page 4-5 Report from Lay & Professed Council – Fred Stubenrauch
Page 6 Parish Leader’s Gathering September 2017
Page 7 Reminders
From the Director
Greetings to you all in this New Year of 2017. I hope to visit most groups during the course of the year. For your reflection on this occasion I include another commentary on Heart Spirituality from Hans Kwakman MSC in Issoudun entitled: “A Passion for Jesus and a Passion for his people.”
Central to the vision of both Pope Francis and Fr. Chevalier is their
Understanding of ‘mission’ or, the word often used by recent Popes,
‘evangelization’. Along with Fr. Chevalier, Pope Francis emphasizes
that all Christians are called to take part in Jesus’ mission in the world.
For both of them, ‘mission’ or ‘evangelization’ has to play a vital role
In the church and in the life of every Christian.
The Pope describes ‘mission’ as “at once a passion for Jesus and a passion
for his people” (Evangelii Gaudium m. 268). In section 8 of this course,
we already spoke about Fr. Chevalier’s great passion for Jesus Christ. In all
his writings, he presented Jesus Christ as the model of our life and mission in
church and society. He invites us to look attentively at Jesus in his public life,
so that we may follow him in his mission. What do we see? ‘We see his Heart
pour itself out on every short of misfortune, on every sort of misery, moral and
physical. All the kindness that Jesus sowed along his path, all the miracles he
worked are so many outpourings of ineffable goodness of his heart”
(Le Sacre Coeur 1900, p. 9). In the same book, Chevalier elaborates the
meaning of this “ineffable goodness” of Jesus by declaring: “Goodness is gratuitous love.”
Quoting Fr. Lacordaire OP, a famous preacher of his day, he states:
“He is good who loves for the sole happiness that he finds in loving”.
Pope Francis sees this as the purest motivation for evangelization. He writes:
“Only the person who feels happiness in seeking the good of others, in desiring
their happiness, can be a missionary. This openness of the heart is a source of joy, since “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). And the Pope
points to the many people who are “missionaries” just by the way they carry out
their daily commitments: “All around us we begin to see nurses with soul, teachers with soul, politicians with soul, people who have chosen deep down to be with others and for others” (Evangelii Gaudium n. 272-273). And, we may add that all around
us we also meet parents and children with soul priests, religious and all kind of workers with soul. These are the people, the Pope says, who live with “a heart attentive to others´ (Evangelii Gaudium n. 282). They are the people who “generously give’ of themselves (Evangelii Gaudium n.274). In chapter 5 of Evangelii Gaudium, the Pope calls them several times “Spirit-filled Evangelizers”.
Meantime the Lay and Professed MSC Council in continuing to respond to the desire of many people to receive more formation in a spirituality of the Heat. Fred Stubenrough has more details about this in another section of this Newsletter.
God’s blessings to all of you. Jim Littleton MSC Pg 1
Diversity
Bernadette Phillips
Clouds in the sky have different shades
They glow in lights, either dim or fade!
Suddenly new ones come and cloak the air,
To renew our visions and make things fair!
Rainbows are born among the light and rain
To soothe the viewer’s eyes and remove all pain!
Life bathes in motion to plant the new seeds,
and waits for creatures with creative deeds!
This goes on and on since the ancient days,
and people just flock, like bright sun rays!
We know, colour or creed works as a dam
to promote any progress, or create a jam!
No one gains through the screeching halt,
cause faith is taken with a grain of salt!
But removal of notions may clear the way,
and build the bridge that will never sway!
So, let us all now blend our ethnic voice,
to kill any prejudice, or colour of choice!
Progress via Diversity; let it be the key –
around the globe, from heaven to sea!!!!
On a personal note I hope the year has started well for you. Just an update on my elderly mother Dot who turns 94 early April. Last year she had a few trips to hospital for treatment of her ulcerated lower leg and other minor issues. Poor circulation is her main problem and the doctors and nurses at POW Hospital did everything possible for her. She returned to her home for Christmas and joined in our family celebration. The plan was to return to hospital for a skin graft but unfortunately due to the condition of her ulcers it will not proceed….It would be a painful procedure with an outcome that may not be beneficial if the graft failed. So mum has accepted her limitations and is otherwise healthy, happy, alert and enjoying good care and company at Kildare at Maroubra Junction. For some months the shopping trips were on hold due to mum’s health & mobility issues but this week the laps of the local shopping centre resumed. It was quite an effort for mum, as well as my sister, who accompanied her. Maree has the patience of a saint and mum has the determination and will to “soldier on”. Mum said she needed a lipstick and a few other important items from the shops!!! Life is for living no matter what age you.
Mum’s girlfriend Doreen will be 102 soon and she, like mum, enjoys good care and has a positive outlook. She is not a shopper preferring a wine and a cheese platter every afternoon at happy hour! For me life is full, with p/t work, babysitting & enjoying grandchildren, a busy social life and being there for mum. I plan to retire later in the year soon after the Provincial changeover.
Best wishes to all for a healthy and happy 2017. B x
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Words from Pope Francis Feb 2017
BUILD BRIDGES OF UNDERSTANDING
Pope Francis repeated his appeal for people to build bridges of understanding, not walls as he marked a feast day of a Sudanese immigrant amid a global uproar over the Trump administration's attempts to impose a travel ban on seven mostly Muslim countries.
The pope didn't refer to President Donald Trump in his comments. But at the end of his audience, he noted that Wednesday marked both the church's day of reflection for young victims of human trafficking and coincidentally the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita.
She was a 19th-century Sudanese slave who, after migrating to Europe, became a nun. Sudan is one of the seven countries on the U.S. travel ban list.
"In the social and civil context as well, I appeal not to create walls but to build bridges," he said. "To not respond to evil with evil. To defeat evil with good, the offence with forgiveness. A Christian would never say 'you will pay for that.' Never.
"That is not a Christian gesture. An offence you overcome with forgiveness. To live in peace with everyone."
Francis made the reference during his weekly Wednesday catechism lesson, dedicated to the general Christian precepts of hope and forgiveness in forging peace.
Francis has frequently invoked the "bridge not walls" appeal in urging countries to welcome migrants, including when he returned from a visit last year to the U.S.-Mexico border. On that occasion, he was asked about Donald Trump's campaign pledge to build a border wall and said anyone who wants to build a wall is "not Christian."
The Vatican has in recent weeks come out strongly and directly to criticize the Trump immigration policy, with a senior official saying the Vatican was indeed concerned and the Vatican newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano, saying the recourse to walls and travel bans was against U.S. economic interests.
In his remarks Wednesday, Francis also appealed for prayers for members of Myanmar's Muslim Rohingya ethnic minority, who face official and social discrimination in Buddhist-majority Myanmar, also known as Burma.
"These are good people, peaceful people," Francis said. "They're not Christians, but they're good, our brothers and sisters. And they have been suffering for years. They've been tortured and killed, simply because they are continuing their traditions, their Muslim faith. Let us pray for them," he said.
Most of the estimated 1 million Rohingya do not have citizenship and are regarded as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, even when their families have lived in Myanmar for generations. Communal violence in 2012 forced many to flee their homes, and more than 100,000 still live in squalid refugee camps.
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FR JOHN MULROONEY, PROVINCIAL
SHIFTING VALUES….(extract from Fr John’s recent Provincial Newsletter to all MSC)
I think we will have all noticed a real shift in values particularly in the western world during the last couple of years. There is a growing self- centeredness coupled with a ‘look after #1 first’ attitude. We see leaders touching in on people’s fears, pitting one group against another group; demonising those from other faiths and religions and even talk of “building walls”. One would think we had learnt a lot from the experience of the Berlin wall or the division of Vietnam in 1954 or the walls that have been built in Israel.
In Australia we have seen our overseas aid budget slashed to its bare bones. We are a wealthy country but seem to have lost some of the notion of looking after those less fortunate than ourselves. (Even the recent decision of the Australian Govt to cut the short wave radio reception to hundreds of thousands of people in the Pacific region who rely on it for disaster warnings and all kinds of related information – designed to save a few dollars!)
Of course there are leaders in the world who speak and act out of different values to those above - values of inclusion, justice, fairness, respect, welcome and love.
I hope we are able to take some time in reflection on what is happening in the light of the Gospel we live; in light of the heart of Jesus and all we find dwelling within him and ourselves and in light of the Gospel we preach by our words and lives every day.
Report from the Lay and Professed Council - Fred Stubenrauch
Chapter
Alison McKenzie and I presented to the Province Chapter a report about the gathering of lay people held in June last year.
The report was well received and the Chapter reaffirmed the commitment of professed MSC to the ongoing support and formation for lay people.
A small committee has met to plan what form this support should have and how it may be delivered. The Province has generously offered support for the gathering of this information.
We are planning to develop a survey that will go out to people in the various ministries. The results, we hope, will guide the development of appropriate resources. These may be in the way of on-line publications and/or face-to-face sessions.
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Two professionals well experienced in developing surveys will be assisting us. These two people are Janeen Lamb and Helga Neihart.
If you would like to be involved in completing a survey or just in providing your comments then please contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
International Gathering
In July this year the next International gathering of lay MSC will be held in Brazil. There will be people from every MSC province in the world. The theme of the conference is “Our Mission: A spirituality without borders”. We (Alison McKenzie and I) have been asked to present a paper “Fr Chevalier’s Vision: a mission without borders”.
We haven’t finalised just what we will present and any contributions will be welcome!!!!
Nick Harnan
Earlier this month I was fortunate enough to be able to attend a retreat given by Nick Harnan MSC from the Irish Province. I think details of the retreat were sent to everyone last year. Nick worked for many years at Cor Novum in Issoudun. Nick’s presentation was very enlightening . He presented understanding of Spirituality of the Heart from a psychological view point. There were many highlights but one that struck me is that we all need to find a way to put aside our ‘ego’ selves to find our inner heart and allow it to guide our thoughts and actions.
In a recent note I sent to a few people I presented a puzzle. See if you can solve it! The award for most creative so far goes to Paul Compton but I won’t spoil it by giving you his answer.
The puzzle is what does TBOETHOG stand for?
Best wishes and every blessing to all.
Pg 5
Parish Leaders Gathering
St Mary’s Towers, Douglas Park
Friday evening 15th Sept 2017– Sunday afternoon 17th Sept
Gathering time – 6.00 pm Friday
Departure – 1.00pm Sunday
‘ The parish is where the Church lives. Parishes are communities of faith, of action, and of hope. They are where the gospel is proclaimed and celebrated, where believers are formed and sent to renew the earth. Parishes are the home of the Christian community; they are the heart of our Church’
National Conference of Catholic Bishops – USA
You are invited to a weekend of prayer and reflection, with a focus on Heart Spirituality as a way to transform our own lives
and the lives of others.
Contact: Alison McKenzie Fred Stubenrauch
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Pg 6
REMINDER
The annual donation of $10 per address is much appreciated.
Please forward
TO: Missionaries of the Sacred Heart
Fr Jim Littleton msc
PO Box 84 DICKSON ACT 2602
If you have not already done so.
To save expense, receipts are not issued unless requested.
Fr Jim Littleton MSC
National Director, Lay MSC Lay MSC Newsletter
Daramalan College Bernadette Phillips, Editor
PO Box 84 Treand House
DICKSON ACT 2602 PO Box 252
- (02) 6245 6358 F. (02) 6245 6397 COOGEE NSW 2034
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. P. (02) 9665 8999
Website:www.misacor.org.au F. (02) 9664 2962
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CHANGE OF POSTAL ADDRESS or EMAIL
Please send to Bernadette Phillips at
Treand House PO Box 252 COOGEE NSW 2034 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
If you have changed your address or email, or wish to amend your address please print your correct details below:
Name: ………………………………….…………………………………………
Address:………………………………….………………………………………..
Email: ………………………………………………………………………………
LAY MSC NEWSLETTER
November 2016
AS LONG AS YOU DID IT TO ONE OF THESE, THE LEAST OF MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS, YOU DID IT TO ME.
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus
be everywhere loved
INDEX
Page 1 From the Director Fr Jim Littleton MSC
Page 2-3 Refugee and Migrants response from United Nations Meeting Sept 2016-“Year of Mercy”.
Bernadette Phillips
Page 3-4 “Mother Teresa’s Canonisation” - Pope Francis
Page 4 Provincial Chapter held Monday 26th Sept – Tues 4th Oct 2016 - Fr John Mulrooney MSC, Provincial
Page 4-5 News from Vietnam – Fr Bob Irwin MC
Page6 Reminders
LAY MSC NEWSLETTER, NOVEMBER 2016
From the Director
Greetings to all Lay MSC as we come to the end of another year! For your reflection I am attaching a recent article written by Hans Kwakman MSC, which he called “The Motive of Evangelisation”. It reminds us that we are all called to be involved in making Jesus better known, to be missionary disciples.
Fr Chevalier was filled with concern about the fact that so many people did not know Jesus Christ and even did not know what they were missing. He wrote: “the Sacred heart of Jesus, the only source of light, truth and life, is not sufficiently known, is not sufficiently loved. Yet his love has saved the world…. And his loving kindness keeps it in being”. Talking about the Sacred Heart, Chevalier referred to the person of Jesus as appearing in the Gospels, loving with a human heart. He argued, when people get to know Jesus of the Gospels, their hearts and their lives will change. People will start to love him, and by loving him they will “combat egoism and indifference.” So in order to make known the “greatness” of Jesus Christ and “the treasures of mercy which his heart contains,” Chevalier intended to bring religious men and women, diocesan priests and lay people together in a society of the Sacred Heart.
In his sermons Chevalier loved to tell the Gospel stories revealing how Jesus cares for the sick and the poor. With excitement, he spoke about Jesus’ concern for a sinful woman caught in adultery; for Jairus, a synagogue official, whose daughter had died, and for the widow of Naim, on her way to bury her only son. He underlined how Jesus’ Heart, “from the cradle to the cross,” showed both “gentleness and strength”.
Also Pope Francis feels deeply concerned about the fact that so many people still do not know Jesus Christ. In “Evangelii Gaudium” he writes: “Evangelization is first and foremost about preaching the Gospel to those who do not know Jesus Christ or who have always rejected him” (EG n. 15). He adds: “If something should rightly disturb us and trouble our consciences, it is the fact that so many of our brothers and sisters are living without the strength, light and consolation born of friendship with Jesus Christ, without a community of faith to support them, without meaning and a goal in life” (EG n. 49). The Pope continues: “Proclaiming Christ means showing that to believe in and to follow him is something beautiful, capable of filling life with new splendour and profound joy, even in the midst of difficulties” (EG n. 167)
During 2016 I have had the pleasure of visiting most Lay MSC groups. We are all growing older, but
our faith is growing deeper. May I wish all of you the graces and blessings of Christmas.
Jim Littleton MSC
Pg 1
Bernadette Phillips
Refugees and Migrant Responsibilities
General Assembly of the United Nations
New York, September 2016
I wanted to share this summary with you. Let us hope that the plight of refugees and their rights and safety will become the responsibility of world leaders on a global scale. Working together and sharing the responsibility is a positive vision for the future.
Religious leaders, nations and the international community have a ‘grave responsibility’ to act against genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity, said the Vatican Secretary of State at the United Nations in New York recently.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin was at the UN as the keynote speaker at a side event to the United Nations Summit for Migrants and Refugees. World leaders, including Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, met on the same day to discuss issues relating to large-scale movements of migrants and refugees around the world.
Preventing the spread of hatred and violence in religion’s name
Organised by the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the UN, the side event was themed ‘Upholding the responsibility to protect: The role of religious leaders in preventing crimes of atrocity’, Cardinal Parolin said religious leaders too, have a responsibility to ‘help counter the spread of hatred and violence in the name of religion and to promote more inclusive and peaceful societies’.
‘Religious leaders have a twofold moral responsibility in carrying out their religious mission,’ Cardinal Parolin said. ‘First, they are called to highlight in all circumstances those principles and ethical values written in the human heart by God, known as the natural moral law. Second, their vocation is to carry out and inspire actions aimed at helping the building of societies based on respect for life and human dignity, charity, fraternity (which goes far beyond tolerance) and solidarity.’
The Cardinal called on national authorities to recognise and ensure religious freedom as a fundamental human right. ‘Confining religion only to the intimate sphere of the person risks the development of a culture of intolerance. It is important that the international community ensure a proper interpretation of the right to freedom of religion in international law,’ he said ‘Similarly it must reject restrictive interpretations that relegate religion to the private sphere of individuals, preventing a rightful role of religion in the public sphere.’
UN members sign agreement on commitments to migrants and refugees.
At the main summit, UN member states signed an agreement, ‘The New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants’, which communicates the political will of individual countries and their leaders to share the responsibility of refugees and migrants on a global scale in order to save lives and protecting human rights.
William Lacy Swing, the Director-General of the International Organization for Migration, in an address at the summit, pointed out the 'cruel irony that those fleeing terror and conflict are themselves being accused of terrorism and criminality,' due to widespread and growing anti-migrant sentiment and policies.
What are some of the commitments under the New York Declaration?
- Protect the human rights of all refugees and migrants, regardless of status. This includes the rights of women and girls and promoting their full, equal and meaningful participation in finding solutions.
• Ensure that all refugee and migrant children are receiving education within a few months of arrival.
• Prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence. Pg 2
• Support those countries rescuing, receiving and hosting large numbers of refugees and migrants.
• Work towards ending the practice of detaining children for the purposes of determining their migration status.
• Strongly condemn xenophobia against refugees and migrants and support a global campaign to counter it.
New York Declaration
It is hoped that each country will implement these commitments in the coming years. Refugees, migrants, those who assist them, and their host countries and communities will all benefit if these commitments are met.
- Implement a comprehensive refugee response, based on a new framework that sets out the responsibility of Member States, civil society partners and the UN system, whenever there is a large movement of refugees or a protracted refugee situation.
- Find new homes for all refugees identified by UNHCR as needing resettlement; and expand the opportunities for refugees to relocate to other countries through, for example, labour mobility or education schemes.
- Strengthen the global governance of migration by bringing the International Organization for Migration into the UN system.
September 2016
Pope denounces 'sin of indifference' before Mother Teresa’s canonization.
Mother Teresa, revered for her work with the poor in India, has been proclaimed a saint by Pope Francis in a ceremony at the Vatican.
Francis criticises those who choose ‘not to see the many forms of poverty’ on eve of ceremony that will proclaim Mother Teresa a saint.
Pope Francis has denounced what he called the modern-day sin of indifference to hunger, exploitation and other suffering, while commending the example of Mother Teresa on the eve of a sainthood ceremony for the nun.
“Tomorrow, we’ll have the joy of seeing Mother Teresa proclaimed a saint,” Francis told thousands of lay volunteers in St Peter’s Square at a special gathering to stress the need for more mercy and caring in the world.
Mother Teresa to become saint amid criticism over miracles and missionaries .
Francis will lead a Sunday morning canonisation ceremony in the square which is expected to draw huge crowds of faithful and other admirers of Mother Teresa, who founded an order of nuns devoted to caring for the poor and destitute on the streets of Kolkata, India.
In his speech on Saturday to a crowd of volunteers that included some who helped rescue survivors of the 24 August earthquake in central Italy, Francis decried those who “turn the other way not to see the many forms of poverty that begs for mercy”.
Choosing “to not see hunger, disease, exploited persons, this is a grave sin. It’s also a modern sin, a sin of today,” he said.
Mother Teresa may deserve to be made a saint. But why now?
Francis hailed volunteers as “artisans of mercy”, whose hands, voices, closeness and caresses help people who suffer feel loved. While in the square, he patted Leo, the labrador that helped find a four-year-old child who had survived in a pile of quake rubble. The dog raised a paw, which Francis grasped. Pg 3
Since becoming pope in 2013, Francis has been encouraging Catholic faithful and institutions to tend to the needs of marginalised people.
“The world needs concrete signs of solidarity, above all when faced with the temptation toward indifference,” Francis said.
In a shop in Kolkata which sells snacks and rosaries, Muslim shopkeeper Tanveer Ahmed recalled seeing Mother Teresa and other nuns take in a leprosy patient who lay bleeding in the street while others passed by, unmoved.
“We are fighting with each other. We are killing each other.
But, if you want to see love, please look at Mother Teresa,” Ahmed said.
He added: “I believe Mother is next to God.”
MSC Provincial Chapter held Monday 26th September – Tues 4th October 2016
at St Joseph’s College, Hunters Hill NSW
Who we are
Who we want to be
(Our compassionate, empowering, courageous vision)
There has been a year of preparation for the Chapter……much discernment, reflection, community meetings and organization in the lead up to the Provincial Chapter. The first questions that were asked at the pre chapter meetings were around – issues/challenges/problems/things that need addressing now or in the immediate years ahead. Over this time it was hoped to first of all get a feel of the members of the Province, to get a sense of our “well-being”, a sense of our ‘being MSC’ and how comfortable we were with that; a sense of our own journey and the journey of our brothers since the last Chapter in 2010. Most members participated willingly and comfortably in this process which was about connecting with each other, to strengthen our mission. Of course there were some concerns about being able to fulfil present ministry commitments in the Province taking into account aging and mortality.
Many were happy to envision a future where they presently are, emphasizing the power of MSC presence…. wherever we are and in whatever we do. Many expressed a willingness to embrace change as we move forward.
The 8 days of the Chapter were a time of journeying together and seeking space and time for God to reveal himself and what his desire is for us as MSC, as a community and as individuals. What each MSC desires is of course intimately linked with God’s desire for us.
Fr John Mulrooney MSC
The Chapter concluded Tuesday 4th October. Today in Fr John’s report to the Province he spoke about the Chapter and announced that Fr Chris McPhee was elected as the new Provincial. Congratulations to Fr Chris, he promises to be a fine leader in the coming years. Please keep him in your prayers. Overall the Chapter was a very good experience of unity and brotherhood and there was very positive feedback at the end of the Chapter when members were asked to evaluate their experience.
News from our Mission in Vietnam, November 2016 – Fr Bob Irwin MSC
Greetings again from Saigon,
It is Monday morning here and I know it is Monday because the local primary school head teacher talks at the children (and the whole neighborhood) on the very loud speaker (!) for about 45 minutes. She excelled herself today, went for 55 minutes. An hour later they were back again and she was at it again. I wonder what on earth they talk about? Anyway, the big news here at the moment is that the MSC postulants sit for their IELTS English exam this Saturday morning and afternoon. The examinations cover listening, reading, and writing followed by an oral exam on a one to one for the speaking test. A lot hinges on it for them for if they do OK then they can go on to the next stage of formation...off to the novitiate in the Philippines. If not good enough then they have to leave or they may repeat the whole postulancy year. So spare them a thought and prayer, please. Pg 4
ON THE BUSES: No visit to Vietnam is complete unless you have some experiences on the public transport. Every trip is an experience. The weekend before last I had to go on a forty minute ride on the Saturday and Sunday as I was giving two days of recollection for our students who are preparing for final vows. The first bus was brand new! Everyone was sitting up very proud, instructions were in Vietnamese and English (and ignored). When paid, the conductor he wanted to know where I was going..so in my best Vietnamese I told him Phan Dang Luu street, which he announced to the passengers, and asking me more (I think) I told him at the corner of Lam Son...which was dutifully announced to the smiling passengers. The next day was a different story. Dirty old bus, as usual..a young girl gave me her seat immediately behind the driver from hell...one hand on the wheel, one holding the mobile phone, and no hands on the wheel when changing gears! Yesterday, I was back in that district for a one day of recollection for the postulants and aspirants on the theme of failure, success and perseverance. Meanwhile, Thoi was with some of the professed students on the theme of humility! Presumably (obviously) he is more suited to that topic than I am! Both bus drivers yesterday stayed on the horn the whole way! Must say I rather like the buses. It is my only chance to get back at those pesky motorcyclists who take over "my" footpath as the buses lurch from one side of the road to the other, scattering the bikes, like lemons, in all directions! Not very Christian, I know!.....but they don't hit them...how they miss is miraculous!
The students are all back from their trip to Oz. We had a debriefing recently and it was heart warming for me to hear their summaries of what they witnessed and experienced in their time in Australia. The three who stayed on after the Province Chapter for their few weeks experience of the country kept telling stories of the great kindness of the MSC and all the people they met on their journey there. They were very impressed by the ministries in the province in Oz and how they are carried out e.g. the men in the parishes treat the people as friends! The school staffs and students were also very friendly and they were very impressed by the various MSC spirituality symbols etc in the schools. They were a bit bemused by the Irwin lounge at Daramalan and gave me a bit of a serve!
It is always good to hear the opinion of people when they first meet up with you, especially when it is so positive. As I mentioned in my last letter it was wonderful to see how easily the young men from Vietnam were made at home in Oz...very much a part of the Province. Of course, they keep saying how good the Aussies were to them but it is obvious that their presence gave the oldies a good fillip. Same here too! With the youthfulness of the Vietnamese here you get to smile a lot. 40% of the population is aged between 10 and 24. When I get home to my community at CRC we will be celebrating a number of birthdays, the youngest of whom will turn 70!
So, soon will be back in Coogee. A bit too late for MSC schools end of year farewells etc but not too late for the delightful little St Brigid's school next door. Should be home by December 8 and, as usual, I will spend some time in the Novitiate in the outskirts of Manila to visit our five Vietnamese novices there.
Take care down there. Enjoy the arrival of summer, if it is really on its way.
Take care and God bless.
Uncle Bob
Group of MSC Students, OLSH and MSC Sisters.
Pg 5
REMINDER
The annual donation of $10 per address is much appreciated.
Please forward
TO: Missionaries of the Sacred Heart
Fr Jim Littleton msc
PO Box 84 DICKSON ACT 2602
If you have not already done so.
To save expense, receipts are not issued unless requested.
Fr Jim Littleton MSC
National Director, Lay MSC Lay MSC Newsletter
Daramalan College Bernadette Phillips, Editor
PO Box 84 Treand House
DICKSON ACT 2602 PO Box 252
- (02) 6245 6358 F. (02) 6245 6397 COOGEE NSW 2034
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. P. (02) 9665 8999
Website:www.misacor.org.au F. (02) 9664 2962
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CHANGE OF POSTAL ADDRESS or EMAIL
Please send to Bernadette Phillips at
Treand House PO Box 252 COOGEE NSW 2034 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
If you have changed your address or email, or wish to amend your address please print your correct details below:
Name: ………………………………….…………………………………………
Address:………………………………….………………………………………..
Email: ………………………………………………………………………………
http://www.facebook.com/heartworks.
Pg 6
One Heart – Many Bodies
A national gathering of lay people connected with the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart
On the 10th – 12th June over 80 lay people, representing almost every MSC ministry in Australia, gathered at Douglas Park for what we came to name as our first Australian Lay Chapter.
The purpose of the gathering was to develop a representative statement from the diverse family to be presented at the up-coming MSC Chapter. We invited Sr Therese Carroll rsj to be our facilitator, knowing that she is also to facilitate the up-coming Chapter for the MSC. Her facilitation was superb.
We began the gathering with a prayer ritual that incorporated significant scripture passages and music and snippets of the MSC story. The symbol of two hearts beating as one was a feature of the prayer space. The opening ritual began with a calling of the roll, reminiscent of the beginning of each Provincial Chapter. The names of each group were called in turn and people stood and responded – ‘Yes- we are here’. This ritual was repeated again at the end of the gathering – this time with each person attaching a red ribbon to the heart to signify their commitment to be God’s Heart on Earth in their own place.
We worked in small groups drawn from a range of ministries. The facilitation process began with the question: Who are we? We drew on the Emmaus story as we reflected on what we heard, in pairs, focusing on ‘Where did my heart burn?’ and ‘When were my eyes opened?’. This led to a reflection on the question: Who are we called to be? Three themes emerged from this session that can be summarized as a mission focus, a naming of the qualities that are central to who we are and the deep and unshakable knowledge that we live refreshed and sustained by God’s love. The conversation moved from here to the creation of a symbolic representation of what we could look like in the future. This session was underpinned by an input from Phil Fitzgerald which provided a wonderful framework from which to go deeper. Steve Dives brought the day to closure celebrating a beautiful Eucharist that had been prepared by the young adults who were present.
Sunday morning was the time when each group prepared their question or statement for the Chapter. It was formulated firstly as an affirmation to the MSC and then a comment. Group by group expressed their profound gratitude to every member of the province for leading us, for sharing their spirit and for being for us God’s Heart on Earth. There was not a dry eye in the room. From the diversity of opinion and experience present at the beginning of the gathering came statement after statement expressing our desire, our willingness and our earnest hope to be able to walk with and beside professed MSC into a new future and our hope that we will be heard.
The evaluations of the gathering were very affirming. People were grateful to be able to meet each other and to experience the diversity of our MSC family, and many expressed a sense of belonging and inclusiveness that they found uplifting and nourishing. Many expressed the desire for another such gathering.
Thank you to the Province for enabling this gathering to happen. You will see footage of it at your Chapter and we hope the future will unfold in a way that enables us to fully participate in Jules’ vision of a tree with three branches. Thank you to Fred Stubenrauch and the steering committee for their meticulous and persistent organization, without which the event would never have happened.
Alison McKenzie
