Good Shepherd News

No. 202 August 2007

Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd

Unit chapters and restructuring in the congregation

In recent months, several units in the congregation had their provincial, district or sector chapters. For some, the chapter also meant electing a new leader or having someone named by the congregational leadership team.

In May, the District of China and the sector of Korea (formerly with the East Asia Province) formed a new province, North East Asia. During its first chapter,a new province leader was named. In 2006, Argentina and Uruguay, as Provincial Chapter of Bolivia/Chile. From left to right: Srs. Cecilia Patiño (Congregational Leadership Team), Ma. Cristina Opazo (Bolivia) Eliene (Continued on page 2) Barros (Congregational Leadership Team) and Leticia Cortez (Chile)

Outcome of Theological Reflection Be led by the Spirit Gal 5:16 A clear message to go forward By Sr. Odile Laugier RGS The congregational leadership teams of the Good Shepherd Sisters and Our Lady of Charity wrote last June 14 that based on the responses of the sisters to On November 25, the consultation regarding the reestablishment of the 1641 at the rue St. two congregations as one, the OLC and Good Jean in Caen, near Shepherd Sisters must continue with the process of the Porte Millet, a journeying together. house of welcome, a refuge, was opened. “While it is clear that we are ready to begin a process for journeying together, we need to determine exactly (Continued on page 3) what that process will be. The two leadership teams recommend that we convene a Commission composed of members from each congregation. This group could have sub commissions working on various topics.

From your responses we found some of the areas we could consider. These include: spirituality and history, What’s inside? clarification on canonical issues, studying various governmental models, providing more detailed News from Egypt information about each congregation. We also might page 7c need a consultant to work with us.” Ethiopia’s Millenium page 11 Visit the website’s library for a copy of the letter: Senegal: 50 years of religious consecration page 12 www.buonpastoreint.org Indonesia celebrates 80th year of foundation (Reserved Documents) page 14 BOLIVIA-CHILE... (Continued from page 1) part of the restructuring in the congregation became one province.

This month, the province of Chile and the sector of Bolivia became th new province of Bolivia/Chile. Following are excerpts from the joint report of the unit leaders:

We give The new unit leader of Bolivia/Chile with her council, apostolic and con- thanks templative sisters. From left to right: Srs.Margarita Susana Chaparro to God Toro (Contemplative); Carmen Abello; María Paz Venegas; Mª Cristina our Fa- Opazo (Provincial leader) Sonia Salas; Sandra Suárez; Gabriela ther- Contreras T. (Contemplative). Mother that, tion to make way for change ac- our apostolic zeal. faithful cording to each one’s capacity, Thanks that we have been helped to to His specifically for this call to unifica- become humbler and to feel the prom- tion as a way to make the “Holy need for God to discover our weak- ise, He Work” alive and dynamic. nesses as Animation Teams, weak- has nesses that have impeded a better walked • Thanks especially to our Lay service to each one and to the mis- with us Associates who, in the environ- ment of their families, work, and sion. each day in the Church, make present the We invite all to continue the process this charism and spirit of Jesus Good begun in the communion of our cul- process Shepherd through their lives of tures, weaving the future with bonds of re-structuring and unification. witness and service. of compassion and reconciliation, in

• Thanks to our collaborators global solidarity, enlivened by the Thanks to the Congregational • who enable the continuation of the hope that in the love and trust placed Leadership Team for trusting our apostolic task of the Congregation in our Good Shepherd, we may bring own leadership. through their unconditional com- forth new life in our beloved coun- • Thanks to each of our contem- mitment. Their witness has taught tries. plative and active communities for us to love our vocation more, to be their powerful prayers, their support, more generous, and has nourished Srs. Ma. Cristina Opazo & their collaboration, their determina- Ma. Leticia Cortes

In this issue: John Eudes, the priest who proclaims the unfathomable riches of Christ

The prayer of August 19, Solemnity of St. John have stories of our different units, we also publish Eudes echoes: several important activities in the lives of Our Lady

“Lord God, you marvelously selected the priest, of Charity, the Congregation of Jesus and Mary John Eudes, to proclaim the unfathomable riches of and Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd. Christ. Grant, we pray, that we may be guided by his word and action, grow in your knowledge, and A fresh reflection is offered to us on St. John faithfully live the Gospel...” Eudes and St. Mary Euphrasia. The two congregational leadership teams of the OLC and St. John Eudes became famous in his time because the Good Shepherd Sisters felt that the Spirit is at of his preaching. People were touched by the power work in us and that both SJE and SME must be of his preaching and returned to God. The books “rejoicing at this urging of the Spirit.” that he wrote continue to offer us a rich resource in contemplating God’s mercy. Let us be united as we move forward and continue proclaiming Christ. In this issue of Good Shepherd News, while we

REGINA KUIZON, Communications Coordinator Good Shepherd News Casa Generalizia, Suore del Buon Pastore, Via Raffaello Sardiello 20- 00165 Roma, Italia Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

2 grating and a new period of his- “Be led by the Spirit” tory began. It was the beginning of the industrial age, with all its - Gal. 5:16 social and economic conse- quences. M. Euphrasia Pelletier, By Sr. Odile Laugier RGS active members of the society contemporary of all these of his time. A truly adapted changes, a happy sister of Our On November 25, 1641 at the foundation, within a precise Lady of Charity, realistically ana- rue St. Jean in Caen, near the context. Incarnated. As the lyzed the world-wide changes Porte Millet, a house of welcome, years went by, three groups of and took into account the facts a refuge, was opened. This persons would live together: facing her as Superior of Angers: “creation” had required many the religious, the boarders 20 postulants in the first 6 interventions, not only with the (adults or children) whose months, many requests for new civil authorities but also with the board helped maintain the foundations… She asked Rome religious. Once the necessary house, and the women for for the establishment of a Gener- authorizations were obtained, whom the house was founded. alate “to place in common the persons were mobilized to or- persons and resources to be ganize and take charge of the This made John Eudes a foun- able to work more efficaciously material needs, a collection was der but for us, even more, it for the glory of God and the sal- made throughout the city to se- made him the initiator of a spiri- vation of souls.” cure the furnishings and most tual family. It lighted up a page immediate needs of the house. of the Gospels, showing a face History had shown the relevance of God for whom every person of this decision through an im- Why this foundation? Who insti- has infinite value because He pressive expansion. And yet, it gated it? regards each one as an infi- was not above all the number of nitely loved child. No one is foundations which was most The preaching of John Eudes, a ever too far from Him. No one striking but the life and ardor of member of the Oratory of Cardi- is ever lost for Him… con- these communities all over the nal de Berulle had touched many cretely; it is the religious whom world. The impulsion had been hearts, and in particular some He invites to accompany the given by M. Euphrasia through women who were living on the women who wish to change her humility as “Servant of God”, fringes of morality and were now their lives, “our Sisters Peni- her faith and confidence, her ap- desiring “to change their life.” tents” as they are called in the ostolic zeal, her detachment re- Like the mustard seed in the ancient texts (and always capi- garding the work and above all, gospel parable, the Word sown talized in writing). All persons, her openness to persons and during the Mission had taken regardless of their past, are events. root, grew and developed. The worth more than a world. And place for this growth would be the Sisters of Our Lady of Mary Euphrasia kept alive in her the Refuge. John Eudes, chal- Charity commit themselves by heart the thought of all the suffer- lenged within the context of his vow “to imitate, as for as they ing persons that her communities mission activity, would meet the are able…the most ardent could not care for, given the challenge to the very end and charity by which the Heart of ever-present need of finding ade- respond to the need expressed Jesus is inflamed for these quate resources, the uncertain by Madeleine Lamy with forceful souls.” future of sisters sent to far dis- vigor: “You’d better work to found tant missions and facing many a house for these poor women Two hundred years have difficult situations… who lose themselves for lack of passed. Ten years after the resources and direction.” That end of the French Revolution To meet all this, she rooted her- would be actualized in a Chris- followed by 15 years of wars in self in the strong spirituality of tian and social reality, in a par- Europe which have overthrown John Eudes and created a com- ticular place and age which John frontiers and political regimes, Eudes had led together with the the old social order was disinte- (Continued on page 4)

3 BE LED... (Continued from page 3) When she heard of the slave the world has changed, probably markets selling children, she even faster than during M. Euphra- exclaimed: “A child of God sold sia’s time; it has become a “global munity of “Pray-ers”, the contem- like an animal in a market, that village.” Sr. Brigid reminded us in platives of the Good Shepherd I will never accept!” And she Feb. 2007 that the Spirit is at work in who offer their lives for the mis- acted! She sent Sisters to Tur- us. What sion of Jesus the Good Shep- key and to Smyrna (now Izmir). creative re- herd. sponse will When Msgr. Angebault advised the Holy Here are a few facts to illustrate the the sisters against choosing Spirit incite in ardent flame of zeal burning within Mary Euphrasia as Superior us at the her and which made her take action: because of her weaknesses, Congrega- she pacified the sisters on tional Chap- When she received the letter coming out of the chapel: “It’s ter of 2009? from the Prefect of Aube inform- nothing! Do not be troubled, we Let us ask ing her that 100 young prisoners are nothing but who we are John Eudes could be transferred to the Good before God!” and Mary Euphrasia Shepherd, that very same day Sr. Brigid Lawlor she sent three touriere Sisters to That is our Mother! that in follow- fetch them! The very same ing them we would always be led by day… ! Today, 150 years have passed, the Spirit.

Fourth Union of OLC General Chapter The General Chapter of the Union of Our Lady of Charity re-elected last July 14 Sister Angela Fahy as congregational leader for the next six years. Three sisters who will work with her were elected on July 16. The three members of the leadership team are: Srs. Bertha Alicia Alvidrez, Annick Egu and Josefina Lopez. The Sisters of Our Lady of Charity met in Carrolton, Ohio, USA for their Fourth General Chapter. The theme of the Chapter was, “Incarnating the love of God in a globalized world as disciples and missionaries of compassion.” From left to right, Srs. Josefina, Angela, Bertha Alicia and Annick

in Rome but in their provinces. 64th Eudist General Assembly The participants of the 64th Assem- bly elected Fr. Michel Gérard, superior general ernment structure. The General on August of the Congregation of Jesus and Council, that will serve for the next 17 the Mary, was reelected leader of the five years, is now composed of the follow- congregation. He will be assisted by General Superior, a Vicar General ing: the a new team. who resides in Rome, and two Vicar Gen- The Assembly approved a new gov- general councilors who do not live eral, Fr. Gustavo Londono of Colom- bia; the General Council- lors are Fr. John How- Fr. Michel Gérard ard of the United States (North American Prov- ince) and Fr. Pierre-Yves Pecqueux of France.

The 64th General Assembly of the Eudists was held in Canada from Eudist Assembly delegates, with the laity. August 5 – 19.

4 Province of Medellin you and your family… as well as c we have been blessed with such "The dream of worthy housing for my children” riches as is our house. May your financial plans also be richly blessed. May our Celestial Father Among those served by the bless your investments many times Good Shepherd Foundation a over – your contribution made our high number reside in inade- house possible… We would like to quate housing constructed with: express our thanks in person and to plastic, pasteboard, etc., in very give you a big hug to express at overcrowded hotel rooms, in least a little of the joy that you have housing of high risk of being de- given to my children, my husband and myself… stroyed by a mudslide and or Rosalba and family flood, in sectors in which armed violence is constantly present. “I want to express my immense grati- gratitude to our benefactor be- tude for the great happiness of fulfill- As a response to these situa- cause he gave us a decent and ing my dream of owning a house.” tions, the Project was started in beautiful house … The whole fam- Maria Eugenia and family Medellin: "The dream of worthy ily is happy living in our small “I cannot find the words to express housing for my sons and daugh- house … you are an Angel that how grateful I am for this wonderful ters.” Thanks to the financial came from the sky … We love you gesture.” contributions of a benefactor, we - me and my little brothers! My little Dawn and children were able to begin the first stage brothers share things together with “Thanks to God and you that we of construction of seven houses. love. Farewell and thank you. We love you so very much … May the have achieved something that would The following are some extracts Lord bless you and all of your fam- have taken us many years of sacri- from expressions of gratitude ily. All of my family love you and fice and hard work. My three children from the beneficiaries of the pro- we would like to meet you - my Mariana, Brayan and Yeison live a happier life and have enjoyed ar- ject after having received and mom, and my brother and my other brother, my dad, my uncle ranging our new house. I will never moved into their small houses: and I, thank you. Farewell.” manage to be grateful enough… The Paola happiness of having a proper house “We, Paola, Albeirito and is a dream come true, thanks to you. Andrés, want to express our “Every day we ask God to bless Elicenia

The Agency of Palmira Valle 1997-2007 - 10 years in existence

Social context holism, drug abuse, murder, On August 19, 1997, provincial theft, other crime and abandon- leader, Sister Blanca Inés ment. Velásquez, began a new work. This ministry was attached to the Historical critique community called Rosa Virginia. It is a ministry of insertion in the neighborhood called El Recreo, a depressed quarter of the City of Palmira. Its focus is to attend activities both in the morning and in to girls and their families of the the evening. These girls are between sector of “La Galería.” 7 and 16 years of age. There is also This sector is characterized by aftercare for 15 girls who have fin- street vendors and an open-air ished the program and are now con- tinuing their studies in the different market. There is the potential for city schools. The service is extended minors to be victims of violence The apostolic work began with to the family so that almost 250 per- in the home, of prostitution, alco- sons attended regularly. three Sisters who were en- trusted to water with the oil of Programs that the foundation compassion, welcome, libera- oversees tion, enthusiasm, and devotion, Evangelization and catechesis, 15 girls between 7 and 12 study/tutorial support, play activities, years of age. It is an open cen- craft workshops for mothers, training ter where the girls are served and the possibility for parents to go to school, psychological help, social by special programs. work services, parenting classes, At present the program serves dances classes, music classes, visits 40 girls who participate in the (Continued on page 6)

5 Province of Germany c Special Greetings from Bolivia to the Rhine

Our elderly sisters in Haus Vicar general of the diocese of Flags of Bolivia(left) and Marienhöhe near the Rhine are Oruro(Bolivia), visited Ger- Germany lucky: Every morning, Lothar many. During that occasion, Brucker, a retired parish priest, the two friends met. Fr. Brucker orphan to them, and they helped celebrates the Eucharist with shared that he has been chap- me to grow and to find my them. For sixteen years he lain to the Good Shepherd Sis- priestly vocation. Greet the Ger- worked as a missionary in Bo- ters in Haus Marienhöhe. Fr. man sisters and tell them my livia. Tomas then said: “Good Shep- story!” herd? I owe my life and my vo- Some time ago, one of his cation to the Good Shepherd The Good Shepherd Sisters of friends, Tomas Valencia, the Sisters in La Paz. I came as an Haus Marienhöhe, Waldorf/

Province of Great Britain: be presented at the European c Assembly as our contribution to Weaving, a very important part of our culture the Congregational Quilt. Global Solidarity is likewise important to us and over the last 7 years and At our first Chapter Preparatory Committee meeting in December before we have networked with 2006, we considered the ques- other parts of the world. All of which we will highlight during the tion of a theme for our Provincial Chapter of 2007(Sept.30- Oct. Chapter and all of which are re- 6). In the end, we decided to flected in the theme: Weavers of compassion and reconciliation in have the same theme as the General Chapter. We thought global solidarity. that as our Provincial Chapter is Please pray for us as we con- a preparation for the General Chapter, the same theme would technology at the beginning of tinue both to prepare for our Chapter and discern who to elect allow for a unified preparation for the industrial revolution in Brit- both of these important congre- ain. Each of the countries that for our new Provincial Leader gational events. Weaving is a make up the United Kingdom and Leadership Team. very important part of our culture, has its own typical patterns and with the textile industry which designs and these will be re- Sr. Anne Josephine Carr, RGS expanded as a result of the new flected in our piece of cloth to Province of Great Britain

AGENCY...(Continued from page 5) of Palmira Enthusiasm and commitment The Foundation has taken part in Participation at meetings, training different events organized by com- courses and teams to promote panies, where the girls have dem- health onstrated their artistic abilities Recognition from the city of the work Sense of belonging to the Founda- being done at the Foundation tion Decrease of violence within families Dedication to and love of study Joyful, healthy and happy girls Responsibility Connection and participation of the Creation of a group of volunteers parents in the activities of the Foun- Working in networks dation Preventive work/services Survival of the Foundation in spite of Stability and safety of the Founda- the lack of economic means. tion in order to attend to the girls to other schools, home visits, nutri- -Good Shepherd Sisters, Medellin tion and health, and finally training in and their families moral values.

During the past 10 years, 457 girls have participated in the foundation. They have been welcomed, offered formation, catechesis and evangelization.

Achievements

A social service provided to the City

6 Province of Egypt/Sudan x News from the Good Shepherd Sisters in Egypt

Spiritual and Apostolic Renewal

The school year 2006-2007 gave us the occasion to share and reflect in community about our annual planning and the opportunity to deepen and renew our apostolic commitment. We organized week-end meetings every two months for sisters working in our colleges and resi- dential schools. We are about 25 sisters who experienced three weekends in six months. These where. As they say: “The sisters meetings have strengthened the are the first educators in the forma- In the second meeting we studied a tion of Christian and Moslem letter of M. Foundress written in ties of affection among us and youth.” The schools are, so to say, 1845 in which she counsels us “to renewed our zeal and merciful one of the most important means learn to rely on nothing but God.” love for the girls confided to our for Christian-Muslim dialogue. We With all the conflicts during the year care. St. Mary Euphrasia has never miss expressing our solidar- 1845, she seems to have learned to been the center which animates ity with the Moslems especially see the will of God in the events. this great zeal by the example of during their feasts. Above all she knew how to renounce all personal satisfaction… One of her her life and her writings. During the meetings we had time practices was to die to self by em- to reflect on St. Mary Euphrasia as Meeting of the Apostolic bracing the cross sent by heaven. our resource, and receive profes- Sisters The most frequent subject of her sional formation given by a lay Instructions to her daughters during professional regarding the prob- During the weekend we were that period was: “dying to oneself.” lems of the College. Following are relieved of all work to be able to lis- That was the reason for studying the the themes we studied and re- ten to one another and to share our letter. experiences, the challenges we face, flected on during this schoolyear: our failures and successes. Each In the second part, the professional St. Mary Euphrasia and the work one spontaneously gave her life for training was directed towards the of the Good Shepherd in Egypt the mission in order to deepen our Finances of the School Secretariat. i.e., the work of education or re- fourth vow and the witness of the With the difficult situations in our education of Egyptian girls, Chris- presence of a Good Shepherd Sister country such as changes in the tian or Moslem. In our personal in this beautiful mission in Egypt. Charter, the elections in Parliament, reflections our sharing revealed we have felt the need to live with the how we were touched by the love The parents expect our help above crosses in accordance with St. Eu- and tenderness of St. Mary Eu- all in the field of education because phrasia’s teaching. She has told us phrasia for the girls no matter studies and instruction are every- “Our Institute is founded on the where they are from. Cross,” and meditating on her physi- cal and moral sufferings gave us the courage and strength to live our daily life with Jesus the Good Shepherd. The professional training was de- voted to a study of the staff salaries in the schools.

These meetings have helped us in our mission and our unity in following Jesus the Good Shepherd. They made it easier for us to share the challenges we face and our projects for the goal of “weaving” the love and mercy of Jesus for the youth in the colleges. We hope to continue in order to rekindle our faith and zeal that we may be witnesses to the “hope which dwells in us.”

(Continued on page 8)

“One has to accept trials and adversities as effects of God’s Love and Mercy” -SME

Request for prayer for a difficult situation encountered

Amanie was received with great compassion by our community in Egypt. She was a 16-year-old high school student with a Catholic background. One day her parents discovered that she had run away from home. Her Friends of the Good Shepherd family immediately reported her disappearance to the Bishop. EGYPT… (Continued from page 7) After searching, a parish priest finally found her living with a Friends of the Good Shepherd vocations for this work so non-Christian with whom she greatly needed in these difficult had fallen in love. No one could One of the orientations of our times when the young people make her listen to reason or Provincial Chapter of 2006 was are exposed to all sorts of change her mind. to support our apostolic and mis- abuse. After reflection, the Bishop asked sionary commitment through the that Amanie be returned to her recruitment of Friends of the We had time for meditation, family, who should take respon- Good Shepherd. Our mission is prayer and Gospel-sharing. sibility for their daughter. Her not only to youth but also to our They caught the spirit very well father and uncle came to the collaborators. It is therefore a and went home happy. In the Bishopric to pick her up. They great time that we unite our- last meeting, April 13, 2007, were not very welcoming and selves not only to work together they focused on the question Amanie was afraid of them. She in the educational field but also “Why do we want to be ‘Friends begged the Sisters not to leave to live our spirituality and our of the Good Shepherd’?” Their her but it was in vain as the Good Shepherd charism wher- responses seem to well up priests had asked the sisters to ever we find ourselves with from the very heart of our return her home. them. Taken seriously, this new charism – e.g. “to be the light of organization is a field of aposto- Christ in this world of dark- Once back home, Amanie could late with the laity, who are happy ness…” “to pass on His mes- not stand the situation. She told to know us and our beginnings sage’ … “to help persons in her parents she could not live with our Founders. difficulty’… “to deepen and in- without her boyfriend. The father tensify our interior life.” did not respond but kept a se- At present, there are 30 mem- It was a joy to see our lay col- vere silence. The mother tried to bers, a dynamic and enthusiastic laborators close to us and living console her daughter, making a group. In three meetings we got out our spirituality with love. thousand promises with tender- to know each other as “one can’t Working side by side in the ness and affection. More and be friends without knowing one vineyard of the Lord, our zeal more enraged, Amanie cried and another.” After the presentations, grew more ardent, more univer- shouted that she would escape and we spoke of our Founders, their sal and persevering. rejoin her boyfriend, claiming she life story above all. Little by little was married to him. She shouted we have shared about the work In the Province, seven sisters louder, showing no respect for her of love and mercy with St. Mary mother nor to the whole family. The are responsible for maintaining Euphrasia in the following of Je- father had enough, and, getting up the relations with the “Friends.” sus the Good Shepherd. he grabbed Amanie by the neck and Even in the heat of summer, strangled his daughter to preserve the sisters remain in contact How touched they were with the his honor and that of his family. with them. May the Lord keep history of the founding of the Amanie’s father gave himself up to in joy, simplicity, and mercy all Good Shepherd in Egypt! They the police admitting that he was re- those Christ has confided to were all thirsting for the Word of sponsible for his daughter’s death. our care. And may He grant us, God and the writings of our holy He is now in prison. The Good Shep- Sisters of the Good Shepherd, mother. One of them told us that herd does not forget this family so the knowledge to incline their it is urgent to talk about her in greatly tried by many sufferings. hearts towards their salvation the colleges, especially to arouse and happiness. – Good Shepherd Sisters, Egypt

8 These poor women receive Aid from Contemplative Corner the government and they pay for their own monthly rental. They cook Province of Austria/ Switzerland/Czech Republic their own food and some would go to the GRUFT where the homeless Retreat on the streets of Vienna people have free meals. GRUFT is located below the Mariahilfe Church. “Remove the sandals from your It was a former cemetery but they renovated it and now provides shel- feet, for the place on which you ter for the poor. It was started during are standing is holy ground.” (Ex Advent 20 years ago by a group of 3:5) students who gave free bread to the hungry. Today, one of these stu- This is what God told Moses in dents, works at the center as a so- the burning bush. I have also cial worker. GRUFT is open 24 this experience during our hours a day and offers free meals “Retreat on the streets” of Vi- and shelter. During summer more enna from July 14-21, 2007. than 60 people sleep during the night but during winter 120 people I came to Vill, Innsbruck, Austria on retreat was so unique because are accommodated. The dining June 5, 2005 as a contemplative everyday after breakfast we go room is also their sleeping quarters. Good Shepherd missionary. In out to the streets and see God in The social workers also go to the Cebu City, Philippines where I was the poor people we meet. In the streets at night to search for home- assigned for eight years prior to my afternoon, at 5:30, we have the less people, establish contact with mission to Austria, I worked at the Holy Eucharist followed by supper them and build their trust so that Altar Bread department. There was a and then faith sharing. During the they will go to this place and avail of very high demand for hosts and that first two days Sr. Elizabeth and I the services offered. gave us the opportunity to employ were together for we did not know At the Mercy Brothers Hospital my our poor neighbors. They worked the streets of Vienna. Each was experience was also different. In my with us and we shared our Vision on her own the third day. We were reflection, I realized that when one is and Mission as Good Shepherd. We given some possible places to go sick there is no difference between have on-going Bible studies and and discerned where God was rich and poor, all feel the same pain faith sharing during Advent. We also leading us during that day. I wore and suffering. started micro credit and the process lay clothes so sometimes I was not of lay empowerment began. The welcome. I was able to see Really it was a chance for me to Contemplative Sisters have good where the drug addicts usually evaluate my life as a contemplative relationships with the workers’ fami- meet in Karlplatz U-Bahn Station missionary. I am fortunate and se- lies and we gather for Christmas and was able to witness a woman cure in my life as a religious. I be- celebrations. It was an enriching selling drugs. It really pained me long to an international congregation experience for me and I learned so so much for some are so young and I have a community that pro- much from them. and their dreams for the future are vides for my daily needs. When I am already shattered. This a global Since I came to Austria, I was look- sick I am attended to by the sisters problem and the government of ing for the poor. I kept asking Sr. M. and have immediate access to Austria is addressing it. After this Gratia Schneeweiss, unit leader of medical care. The poor in Austria are encounter, I usually go to the Ado- the Province of Austria/ Switzerland/ not materially poor because they ration Chapel of St. Stephan Ca- Czech Republic, where the poor in receive financial help from the gov- thedral to lay all these things in Austria were. I missed my experi- ernment and Caritas. The social God’s hands. I felt helpless but I ence working with our CGS staff in services are so well organized but know God can do everything. the Philippines. In a First World and loneliness is their poverty. Most of rich country like Austria the poor are I was able to go to the Home for those people I met have no more not so visible. So last July 14-21, Women in Distress. This is oper- contact with their families. This is 2007 we had our “Retreat on the ated by Caritas. The women can another face of poverty which is dif- Streets” under the guidance of Sr. stay there for as long as two years. ferent from a Third World country Petra Hiemetzberger, CJ and Fr. At the residence, I had an encoun- where I come from. Even in a rich Johannes Konig, SJ. Sr. Elizabeth ter with Margareta, 55 years old, country like Austria the poor are still Garciano, CGS another Filipina con- married with two children and two there but they are not visible. This templative in Innsbruck, Elfrida, a lay grandchildren. She has lived there encounter made me more appreciate woman from Vienna and myself for one year. She has breast can- my life as a contemplative mission- stayed in Haus Sarepta, Home for cer but luckily she is doing well so ary and deepen it. I carry their faces Mother and Child operated by the the social worker from Caritas and anguish in my heart and I lay Missionary Sisters of the Holy Re- helped her and she found a new them in God’s hands. My vow of deemer. We took turns daily to pre- flat from Caritas. The other lady I zeal fired me to pray for them. I pare our simple food. met stayed for two years in the thank Sr. M. Gratia Schneeweiss, for Home for Women but she was so giving me this opportunity to be with Every day we recited our morning restless. She really wanted to the poor. It is really God’s gift to me prayer and we brought with us on have her own flat but it was not as a missionary. the street a text from Scriptures. We possible. The social worker evalu- were asked to listen and to search ated the cases of the residents and Sr. Maria Elena Jalop, CGS where our Holy ground was. This their readiness to be on their own. Contemplative Sisters of the Good

9 Province of Ireland/Ethiopia c Good Shepherd Sisters- Ethiopia - at the forefront in environmental concerns and initiatives

The Good Shepherd Sisters in Addis Ababa are partners with Gaia Association, a pioneering association seeking to establish a market for Ethanol (a by-product of sugar cane) and a purpose design Clean Cook Stoves in a low income neighborhood, Kirkos Sub city. In 2004 Project Gaia began a pilot study of the Clean Cook (CC) Stove in Ethiopia by importing 850 CC stoves and placing them in rural and urban homes across Ethiopia. During the Addis Ababa study 50 CC stoves were tested in Kirkos Sub City in lower, middle and upper income homes. Following the study Gaia As- sociation formed a partnership with Good Shep- herd Sisters Center (GSSC). Cheryl, Melat former Director of Gaia Association, All this happened through the networking of Cheryl Winifred RGS and Jim at GSSC following a demon- stration of Clean Cook Stoves and Ethanol. and Jim O’Brien, a wife and husband team from the USA, who were working with Gaia Association. To create a sustainable stove and fuel business, run by Cheryl had been a volunteer in the Good Shepherd a woman’s cooperative in Kirlos Sub City with the Program in New York. She contacted the Good support of GSSC and the Gaia Association. Shepherds in Addis and came to visit. It was out of To market the one-burner stove and ethanol and to this relationship that the venture was born. Soon after demonstrate the feasibility of this type of business we met with Mr. Harry Stokes, the project head who is model. anxious that the poor benefit from these clean cook To reduce emissions stoves. of CO and PM in Kirkos Sub In July 2006 the Gaia Association with the cooperation City house- of GSSC, conducted an air quality monitoring study in holds thus low income household – beneficiaries of GSSC. The improving the study highlighted the clear demand for CC stoves in low health of income homes, many of which rely on biomass for their these families. daily cooking needs and many of whom can on longer afford to purchase kerosene. The introduction of the CC The Kebele 04 mil- stoves to such homes has reduced levels of PM and CO lennium campaign is to below the World Health Organization recommended ‘Clean and Green’. allowance. Kebele 04 provides opportunities for a It is a firm belief of Gaia association that market testing geographically fo- need not take place in a middle/upper income sector. cused retail market The overall objective includes the following: for the stoves and ethanol. Logistically it will be relatively straight forward to receive, store distribute and moni- tor clean cook stoves and ethanol in GSSC households. The provision of the clean cook stove and ethanol as a fuel will contribute in no small measure to the campaign slogan. GSSC in cooperation with Gaia Associates hope To supply 700 stoves to low income household To establish a women’s cooperative to sell ethanol to the GSSC households To construct an ethanol storage, bottling and distribu- tion station in a centrally located area of Kebele 04 To reduce emission of CO, PM and CO2 in 700 low income household Gaia Association and Good Shepherd Sisters Plan- To successfully market the one burner CC stove and ning Team, from left to right: Girehiwot Mengesha – ethanol in a low income market sector. Gaia Association, Sr Clemencia, Sr Winifred and Haymanot Teketay, staff of Good Shepherd Sisters The environmental problems associated with household Center, Milkyas Debebne, Gaia Association Director, cooking range from the indoor to the global. Curbing Todd Wofchuck- Project Gaia, Inc./Stokes Consult- ing. (Continued on page 11) 10 Province of Ireland/Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s Millennium

Ethiopia – the land of 13 months of sunshine will celebrate its millennium on September 11, 2007 – Ethiopian New Year. Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar which has a seven year difference with the Gre- gorian calendar. The whole country, State and Church are preparing for the event. The year will be marked with various festivals – social and religious. As many as 800 thousand visitors are expected for the celebrations. The Catholic Church held a symposium in which the calendar of events for the year were outlined. Jubilee of priests, dea- cons, seminarians, missionaries and religious will be celebrated on February 8, 2008 with a two day workshop on consecrated life. Flag of Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s Millennium Celebrations Explanation of the Logo of the Ethiopian Catholic Church

Blue colour: represents that the coming millennium is the year we renew our lives and the cove- nant between God and human beings would be restated.

Eucharistic Cross of Lalibela: represents that the cross is the sign of salvation and shows that Jesus is with us up to the end of the world through the Eucharist.

Alpha and Omega: to show that Jesus is the beginning and the end. Heb: 13:8 Jesus is the same , yesterday, today and forever.

The globe: to show our belongingness to the world and to invite the whole world to celebrate this Millennium together with us. At the same time to attest Ethiopia as a historical mark to hu- manity and fountain of development.

Map of Africa: to indicate that it is the country in Africa which was not colonized, to show that Ethiopia is a model to other African countries in history and to invite all African brother and sisters to be together and celebrate this coming Millen- nium

Map of Ethiopia: to designate that this is the Mil- lennium of Ethiopia in a special representation.

Dove: represnet the existence of the Holy Spirit and aspiration of peace and prosperity on the coming Mil- lennium

GOOD SHEPHERD... (Continued from page 9) The Four Crosswise arrows that come from maps: indoor air pollution will alleviate chronic respiratory prob- represent our expectation of Peace, Happiness and lems among women and will prevent child morbidity and Prosperity for the coming millennium to the whole mortality. Ethanol substitution for kerosene to meet house- world. hold cooking energy demands pro vides an opportunity to substitute a non- renewable energy Two millenia since the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. source with one that is renewable and has enormous CO2 reduction potential. This project also falls under the Kyoto The assigned colors of the Ethiopia map are intended Protocol for Clean Development Mechanism. (CDM). This mechanism allows for the identification and certification of Green - signifies development emission reductions in Greenhouse Gases to the atmos- Yellow - signified Freedom phere. (Good Shepherd Sisters, Ethiopia) Red - signifies Victory

11 Sector of Senegal

50 years of being faithful: a simple and unforgettable celebration

Several months ago, Sr. Marie Marthe Dequidt told the sector council of Senegal that she is now on her 50th year as a Religious of the Good Shep- herd. She then insisted that there’s no need to celebrate. The council did not grant her wishes and the preparation for the celebration began at Thies, the community where she is presently a member.

The Eucharistic celebration last 8th of May at St. Johh the Baptist parish evolved around Sr. Marie Marthe’s gratitude for her golden jubilee as religious.

She summarized it this way: S. Marie Marthe renews her vows before Sr. Carmela

“I bless you, God of my life, for the marvel that I Rodriguez, sector leader and the community am. Thanks to my parents for the gift of my bap- tism. Thanks to the Lord for calling me, unworthy of it though I am. For the grace to leave everything, even my country, to respond to the call of the missions, I give thanks. Thanks, too, for the great grace of never doubting the call to the Good Shep- herd Congregation and to the call to be a missionary.

The Cross and trials, have marked these periods, but as our Mother Foundress used to say, “Great crosses, great graces! I love to say that the joys and happy moments surpass the crosses. The trials are buried under the weight of graces and the health problems. I sometimes tell myself: I am still here, a little miracle for me, or at least a smile of God.” S. Marie Marthe and the Mass concelebrants S. Marie Marthe Dequidt, from Lille, north of France, joined the congregation of our Lady of novice directress from 1998-2000. She is among Charity of the Good Shepherd in Angers and had st the sisters who began the formation of our lay asso- her first profession on 31 May 1957. She re- ciates and continues to accompany them until to- sponded to the missionary call outside France day. Her deep faith in God’s providence and her when she said “yes” to go to Algeria in 1958 and obedience to God through her coordinators are spent her years there until 1978. Her enthusiasm something young sisters would like to follow. in responding to the mission in Algeria impelled her to study the Arabic language in order to be effec- At her age of 77 years Sr. Marie Marthe can still tive in her ministry with young Algerian girls in drive a car and continues involvement in the prison prison. ministry. She untiringly visits and gives communion to the sick. She continues searching for new ways After Algeria, Sr. Marie Marthe still with full of vig- to make cooking lessons with women in our training our for the mission, offered her missionary services centre in Thiès interesting. and went to Senegal in November 1978. From then on she stays in the sector. Her love for men When asked what secret keeps her going all these and women prisoners alike manifested the congre- years, she said, “Faithfulness to the essentials of gation’s charism of compassion that SME aptly religious life.” Like SME she utters, “The glory of puts: “A person is of more value than a world”. Her God and the salvation of persons is my life.” enthusiasm in promoting the upliftment of Sr. Marie Marthe has her own limitations and mis- women’s’ dignity and women’s development made takes yet she has touched the lives of many people her creative in conducting cooking and baking les- especially women in difficult situations. Fifty years sons; she taught the women how to crochet and to is always a year of grace and love. God continues to do other manual work. manifest His love to Sr. Marie Marthe.

After her sabbatical year in Angers she was named Sr. Maria Juanita Daño, Senegal

12 The parish of St. Martha in the Sector of Senegal city of Mbour celebrated its 80th year of existence last July 29. A second parish is born! Two years ago in the same city a new parish, St. Andrew, was born. Mbour is the third area where we Good Shepherd Sis- ters are present in Senegal, West Africa. Others are Dakar and Thies. We started at St Mar- tha 13 years ago and we continue collaborating with the parish through the prison ministry and PAEDAC - counselling centre. St. Andrew’s church History

There are 181,825 inhabitants in each celebration. More people Mbour and some 19,000 of them became aware of their responsi- are Catholics. Before the crea- bilities and engaged themselves tion of the new parish there were in different church activities. As five religious congregations pre- an outcome, celebrations and sent in the city namely: Sisters church activities became more of the Immaculate Conception, alive and meaningful. Brothers of St. Gabriel, Daugh- ters of Christ the King, Children As Good Shepherd Sisters, we of the Holy Heart of Mary, a local try to be of help where it is congregation and, Good Shep- needed. Since our community is herd Sisters. Catholic influence located very near the parish we Interiors of St. Andrew’s church is evident in all areas even tried and continue to be involved though Catholics comprise only in pastoral ministry by visiting 4% of the total population. As ioners did not like the idea of and giving communion to the Catholics grew in number having being separated from St Mar- sick, accompanying different Ba- St Martha as the only parish was tha. Many of them hesitated to sic Ecclesial Communities, asso- not enough. Faced with the real- participate in the celebration of ciations, organisations , etc. We ity of the pastoral needs of the the Mass in our small chapel. often intervene in clarifying issues when misunderstanding occurs be- people, Monsignor Adriane They sometimes found reasons tween the priests and some parish- Theodore SARR, Archbishop of to avoid being in the parish. ioners. Dakar, thought of having another Building a church was a far- parish. The new parish, St. An- fetched idea. The beauty in our new parish is that drew was established on Octo- collaboration with priests and with Despite the difficulties encoun- ber 16, 2005. other congregations is strengthened. tered, Fr. Jean Sene, parish We became closer to the people Early existence priest and Fr. Etienne Sene, thus lay partnership is getting vicar, along with the three reli- stronger. By frequently visiting the With the creation of a second gious congregations and the sectors that we adopted many pa- parish, three of the five congre- faithful started to build a solid rishioners felt that they had found gations joined St. Andrew: Good their place in St. Andrew. structure and we started well. Shepherd Sisters, the Daugh- As we enter into our third year we ters of Christ the King and Broth- On our second year as parish hope to continue educating and con- ers of St. Gabriel. we developed a programm to cienticizing the faithful for a more deal with the lack of enthusi- As what usually happens with solid cooperation and collaboration asm among the faithful. We to build the church and the commu- new foundations, St Andrew chose the theme: “COME AND nity. We are also looking for various started from zero. Originally, our SEE”. We passed on the mes- ways to speed up the construction of small chapel was an old poultry sage that a new parish exists our church. house converted into a chapel and that helps us in unifying with a capacity of 100 people. We know we have a long way to go our efforts to build a new com- but with hope in our hearts and if You can imagine how we man- munity. As pastoral workers every parishioner will do her /his part aged to fit ourselves into this we reinforced our presence to then St. Andrew will grow in faith and small chapel during Sundays and encourage the parishioners. in number like the other parishes big feasts. that already exist. The presence of the parishion- In the beginning, many parish- ers grew evidently as seen in Sr. Maria Juanita R. Daño, Senegal

13 Province of Indonesia c Good Shepherd Sisters in Indonesia mark 80th anniversary

Eighty years ago, on April 27, 1927, the Good Shepherd Sis- ters from Holland, after a long journey throught the oceans, ar- rived in Jakarta. Six brave and prayerful women impelled by their obedience made this mission possible. As a sign of our deep gratitude to these pioneers, the Province of Indonesia celebrated the 80th Anniversary of RGS mission in Indonesia.

There was no party, but we were happy to have the gathering sup- Celebrating 80 years of Good Shepherd presence in Indonesia ported by all the Good Shepherd Sisters throughout the whole God bless each one of you. Let Eucharistic celebration, followed world. We divided ourselves in us collaborate as “weavers of by supper. Sr. Catharina re- two groups so that all of us can- compassion and reconciliation newed her vows during the come for the Intensive Chapter in global solidarity” and con- Mass. Every Good Shepherd Preparation as well as for this tinue to journey together in our community in Indonesia sent celebration. mission as RGS and CGS. their representatives to Jakarta,

Yogyakarta, Bantul, Ruteng- In celebrating this occasion, we (Indonesia was established as Flores and Marau-Kalimantan. would like to express our deep a province in 1993. It used to All the sisters from Bogor and gratitude to Sr. Brigid Lawlor be part of the province of Sin- Jakarta participated in this sim- and all members of the Congre- gapore/Malaysia. The Prov- ple celebration. Congratulations gational Leadership Team, the ince of Indonesia has commu- and keep journeying with all of sisters in Holland, Germany, nities in Jakarta, Bantul, Bogor, us in your simple way and thank USA, Singapore, Malaysia, the Flores, Kalimantan, Yogya- you for willingly and generously Philippines who supported us by karta, Batam and Tangerang.) serving us. God bless you abun- their prayers and by sending us dantly. missionaries during the early Silver jubilee years. We are very grateful to all Missioning of you apostolic and contempla- On May 10, 2007, we happily tive sisters who keep supporting celebrated in Jakarta the silver Sr. Agatha Priuntari RGS and Sr. us by your prayers and generous jubilee of religious profession of Flora Nirmala Bude RGS are assistance at any time. We keep our provincial, Sr. M. Catharina ready to be missionaries, one in you in our prayers, too and may Wahyuningsih, RGS, with a Sudan and the other in Hongkong.

Recently, we had simple mission sending rites, giving the two sisters our blessings as they prepare for the new ministries in different countries. We are going through an experience of sharing from the little that we have. In the province of Indonesia, we are 43 RGS and half of the members are either doing professional studies or already missionaries. This means that only the other half are engaged in mission work in our own country. Thank you God for providing us with vocations, though fes, but You make

Greetings to Sr. Catharina on her silver jubilee (Contnued on page 15)

14 INDONESIA... (Continued from page 14) ings were held in Jakarta and Yogyakarta. We were very happy to have Sr. Sabina in this time of preparation. We had time for questions, clarifications, sharing, enlighten- ment.

We are now more aware of the theme of our 2009 Con- gregational Chapter and hope to compliment this as we also journey toward our unit chapter… Together we are called “to go and bear fruit” as well as to be the “Weaver of compassion and reconciliation in global solidarity.”

Thank you Sr. Sabina, we are very grateful for your presence and sharing.

Our Lady of Fatima

Every year, from May to October, on the 13th of each month, we have the recitation of the Rosary followed by the Eucharistic celebration. Catholics from various places Mission sending for Srs. Agatha and Flora come to pray with us. The venue for this gathering is our school yard, where we have the shrine in honor of Our Lady of Fatima, and the three children. As you can see in it possible for us to share it in the different places where the picture, there are always many people who come to there are souls to be saved. God bless you Sr. Agatha pray and they believe the Lord assists them through His and Sr. Flora, we support both of you with our prayers. mother, Mary. On May 13, 2007, it was a very special occasion for the Catholics in Eastern Jakarta for we Visitation of Sr. Sabina Pathrose marked the 200th year of the Church in Jakarta, as well. We welcomed Sr. Sabina joyfully in Jakarta last July 2. Sr. Sabina, the link councilor to Indonesia, came to help -Good Shepherd Sisters, us with the preparation for our unit chapter. Our meet- Indonesia

Province of Sri Lanka/Pakistan The Bridgetine Walk

Yes, the students of St. Bridget’s Convent together with the staff, the past pupils and the parents did walk the streets of Colombo, Sri Lanka in a vast procession of elephants, dancers, musi- cal bands etc. etc. The ‘walk’ was several kilo- meters in length, diverting the traffic and even at some corners stopping it with some angry faces looking on at the inconvenience caused by the procession of school children. The police gave us their fullest cooperation, and the entire procession was led by a police car.

The enthusiasm and pride of the students in be-

(Continued on page 16) 15 2007 SRI LANKA.... (Continued from page 15)

Good Shepherd News each grade in the school, fol-

While each unit is encouraged to lowed on by a cheering crowd send articles anytime during the each one eager and enthusiastic year, we have planned that there as all their preparations for the are specific issues when each unit ‘walk’ was now becoming a real- is asked to submit an article so ity. that at the end of the year all the units have been part of Good The walk which commenced at Shepherd News. the primary school gate came to Please send articles on or a conclusion on the other side of before the 5th of each month. ing part of this glorious event the block opposite the collegiate was combined with the loyalty school gate. The event of Here is the suggested schedule: and joy of the adults. The detail course continued with a carnival planning by the ‘Walk Commit- January planned for the day. tee’ was meticulously done, Commissions, CLT. Other news and the entire walk consisted of We thank the Lord for the won- February 45 different items. Sisters, derful loyalty shown by the entire China District, Argentina/Uruguay, staff, past students and parents group, the Planning Committee, France/Belgium, Kenya the School Development Society, all cooperated to take their re- March sponsibility very seriously and the Past Pupils Association, the Mid North, Spain, Belo Horizonte, this made for the smooth run- parents, staff and students. Bogota ning of the entire network and For me to witness this event was everything contributed to make April ‘The Bridgetine Walk-- 2007’ East Asia, Bolivia, Germany the great success it was.

May The main reason for this walk Chile, Great Britain, Lebanon/Syria was to collect funds for the re- furbishing of the school audito- June rium which was opened by Sr. Austria/Switzerland/ Czech Repub- lic, Egypt/Sudan, Ecuador, Japan Marie Bernadette Fox nearly 35 years ago.

July Since it was a Sunday the India/Nepal, New York, Central Eucharist was celebrated for America, Hungary the entire crowd accompanied August with the glorious singing for Indonesia, Medellin, Senegal, Ire- which St. Bridget’s girls are land/Ethiopia famous for. The entire celebration was centered on asking September the Lord to accompany us and Philippines, Mexico, The Nether- bring this event of the day to lands, South Africa the desired conclusion. The walk began with the ‘Head Girl’ a great personal joy, a memory October standing proudly carrying the relived of the great enthusiasm Singapore/Malaysia, Peru, Italy/ of these groups when the pre- Malta, Portugal/ Angola, Canada school flag, and the school band giving a few rolls on the sent school auditorium was be- November drums and all around standing ing built many years ago. Sri Lanka/Pakistan, Recife, Para- to attention to begin the march. guay, Spain, The Isles The sisters, the baby ele- Sr. Immaculate de Alwis RGS Sri Lanka December phants, and the students from CLT, Australia/Aotearoa/New Zea- land, Mozambique, Venezuela Invitation Please send articles, photos with Good Shepherd News captions Special thanks to the following for the translation: for Good Shepherd News to: REGINA KUIZON Srs. Karla Bernabé, Marta Ceballos, Evelina Coronel, Armelle Casa Generalizia, Suore del Buon Pastore Dehannault, Magdalena Franciscus, Gisèle Lalonde, Rosario Via Raffaello Sardiello 20 Ortiz, Adriana Perez, Digna María Rivas, Delia Rodriguez, 00165 Roma, Italia Email: [email protected] Laura Solis, Mary James Wilson, Ms. Valentina Galluzzi and Mr. Michel Ferrer.