The Far East COLUMBAN MISSION MAGAZINE

May 2013 PRICE $1.50 The Far East Contents May 2013 Vol 95, No. 4

THE FAR EAST is devoted to furthering the missionary apostolate of the church and is published by St Columbans Mission Society. 4-5 6-7 THE SOCIETY was founded in 1918 as a society of secular priests dedicated to the evangelisation of the Chinese and other overseas people. It is an exclusively missionary society. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $15 per year (AUSTRALIA)

AUSTRALIA St Columban’s Mission Society 69 Woodland Street Essendon Vic 3040 Postal address: 12-13 PO Box 752, Niddrie Vic 3042 Tel: (03) 9375 9475 [email protected] www.columban.org.au

NEW ZEALAND St Columban’s Mission Society P.O. Box 30-017 Lower Hutt 5040 18-19 22 Tel: (04) 567 7216 3 From the Editor 15 The seven pillars [email protected] Shining through darkness Mission Experience in Chile for World Youth Pilgrims www.columban.org.au 4-5 With God and Fr Don's help 16 Mission World Help for Haemophiliacs Publisher: 17 From the Director Fr Gary Walker 6-7 Columbans return to A living person not a memory [email protected] Myanmar Welcomed back after 30 years Editor: Reflection - Columbans 18-19 Bringing hope to 8-9 Huaycan Fr Dan Harding welcome Pope Francis Sr Martina Kim brings hope to [email protected] 10-11 The meaning of the poor families in Peru Cross Editorial Assistant & Designer: Pakistan martyr knew the 20-21 Not rescued but Jacqueline Russell meaning of suffering condemned [email protected] 12-13 Christians under attack Children in prison Christians attacked by mob of Programs Director: 22 The man who likes his 3000 in Lahore, Pakistan wine Mrs Janette Mentha 14 $10 turns on the lights [email protected] Melbourne parish supports 23 Support Columban Columbans in the Philippines Mission Saint Columbans Mission Property Association A.B.N. 17 686 524 625 Printed by Complete Colour Printing, Melbourne Pope Francis presides at the Liturgy of the Passion of the Lord on Good Friday at St Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, Vatican on March 29, 2013.

The Far EastMAGAZINE COLUMBAN MISSION PRICE $1.50 Photo: By Alessia Paradisi/ABACAUSA.COM/AAP May 2013

From the Editor

Shining through darkness

any of the stories we It shines through with the support deprivation and despair. The M publish in The Far East that is offered to Haemophiliacs in Holy Spirit that was poured out at have quite a lot of sadness, tragedy the Philippines and how Columban Pentecost upon the disciples and and darkness in them. missionaries are returning to continues to be poured out upon us today, fills us with the power to follow In this issue of The Far East there Myanmar in 2013. It shines through in this call. are many such stories like that of Pakistan with the continuation of the the young man struggling with work of Shahbaz Bhatti by his brother The stories of light and hope shining Haemophilia in the Philippines, the and also the rebuilding of the homes through darkness and suffering that sadness of the last Columbans forced of Christians that had been destroyed we read about in this issue of The Far to leave Myanmar in 1979, the tragedy by mob violence. East are the stories of the Holy Spirit of the assassination of Pakistani working through these Columban Minister for Minority Affairs, Shahbaz priests, sisters and lay missionaries Bhatti in 2011 as well as the recent The Holy Spirit that was poured who along with other lay Christians burning of the homes of a Christian out at Pentecost upon the seek to make the Risen Christ shine community in Lahore, Pakistan by an disciples and continues to be through the darkness. enraged mob. We also have stories of poured out upon us today, fills us how poverty affects families in Lima, with the power to follow this call. Peru and the story of children locked up in the Philippines. Other signs of Christ's light and hope During the Easter season, we rejoice shining through are the setting up of in the victory of Christ over death and a Day Care and Homework Centre for sin. Christ's resurrection brings light children from poor families in Lima and hope to situations of sadness, and the support offered to children tragedy and darkness. From the locked up in the Philippines. perspective of Easter, amidst all the struggle and difficulties expressed All Christians are called to bring in these stories, the light and hope the light and the hope of the Risen Fr Dan Harding of the Risen Christ shines through. Lord into situations of darkness, [email protected]

The Far East - May 2013 3 With God and Fr Don's help Columban Fr Donald (Don) Kill is the founder of "Blood Brothers Aid" which cares for more than 300 Haemophilia patients in the Philippines. "Blood Brothers Aid" not only helps care for its patient members but also runs a nationwide education campaign on Haemophilia and advocates for more support for Haemophiliacs from the Philippine Government. Angelo Cuevas who suffers from Haemophilia and is the president of "Save One Life Foundation," a partner organization to "Blood Brother Aid" in the Philippines, tells the story of his life as a Haemophiliac to Fr Don. Photos: Don Fr Kill Angelo and Sheila on their wedding day.

'm the only child in my catch up on school work after these my parents had no more money and I family. I was diagnosed with episodes. I noticed that the strain were borrowing to pay the hospital Haemophilia A when I was two years of trying to keep up in my studies bills. old. From the beginning my life was would trigger additional bleeds. Still I After a year I decided to go to the different from other children. My managed to finish primary school and high school where my mum was parents were constantly watching me graduated in 1994. or, if they were at work, my cousin teaching, so that she could watch over took care of me. My mother was a After graduating I became very sick. me. Often swelling in my legs would teacher and my father worked abroad. I refused to be taken to the hospital keep me from school. During those even though I knew the potential bleeds I wouldn't be able to walk. I still When I entered school at age six negative consequences. refused to go to the hospital. my father stopped working to be at home. When I got bleeds I had to miss During my previous hospital stays Though I was worried about the long- school. Sometimes I would be out for I had received Factor VIII infusions term physical effects, I didn't want my a month and I was admitted to the (blood clotting protein), which had parents to face the financial burden. hospital several times. It was hard to used up all my parents' money. I knew I used cold compresses and rested

4 The Far East - May 2013 PHILIPPINES

instead. Recovery took much longer that time. Any movement caused me thin, and the bleeding wouldn't stop. without treatments. Over time my great pain. After a year, I was finally There was a point when the doctor knee and my elbows stopped flexing able to stand and walk, although I didn't think I would survive and called fully. Sometimes I cried from watching still felt numbness in my right leg. my parents. At one point the doctor these changes in my body. I decided to go to university again, thought my right leg should be I finished high school with honours this time for an associate's degree in amputated, but miraculously, it didn't despite my many absences. I was computer science. happen. It took more than a year to accepted into a good university and My first semester went well, with only recover, with many more donations started to pursue a degree in biology. three days absent due to a sprained of FEIBA for which my parents were When young, I dreamed of being ankle. Lucky me, it only took three so thankful. Now I can walk, but not a doctor, so this was my first step days to heal! Most of my sprains lasted without crutches. toward fulfilling that dream. The first a week or even longer. During this I feel special because I have received two months I felt so good and was so time I also became very active in the so much. Save One Life, Project SHARE inspired to be the best in class. Then I Legion of Mary in my local parish. and Fr Don never stop helping those ended up in the hospital for a month. These happy moments lasted for a who are in need. One of my wishes year and a half. My university had already given me is to return the favour by helping my special favours to help me finish the fellow patients with Haemophilia. I feel special because I have All I can offer is myself and whatever semester, but with this prolonged received so much. Save One Life, episode, I had to stop. talents, skills or knowledge I have. Project SHARE and Fr Don never My only fear is that when I do get Despite infusions of Factor VIII stop helping those who are in bleeds, especially when it's painful, and blood plasma, I made little need. One of my wishes is to improvement and against medical I tend to stop everything that return the favour by helping my I'm doing. When the pain's gone, advice, I asked my parents to allow fellow patients with Haemophilia. me to come home. What could we however, even if I'm still swollen, I can All I can offer is myself and do? There was no more money to finish any job I'm given. whatever talents, skills or pay the bills and buy medicine. While With God's help and the support of at home, I got another bleed. It was knowledge I have. Fr Don and everyone around me, I so painful, I couldn't bear it. I could believe I can still live a normal life with During the second semester of my hear my parents saying, "I'll go to this a job, a family and a good future that second year, I got a major bleed in person and see if I can borrow some every young man like me dreams of. my left thigh, which forced me to money." "Me too, I'll ask this person." stop again. It lasted for months. Even I went back to the hospital and though I re-enrolled, I never returned Fr Don Kill writes: Angelo and Sheila discovered that I had a haematoma due to continued bleeds. It was in were married in February 2010 and soon about the size of my fist in the right this period that I met Columban Fr after were expecting the arrival of their hip muscles. Donald Kill. first child. Angelo recently completed a My doctor told me that it should be Microsoft digital literacy seminar. drained. My parents managed to When I developed an open wound get money to buy the blood clotting on my right thigh, Fr Don was Factor VIII, but just as I was to go able to request FEIBA, through the into surgery, the doctor discovered Haemophilia support organization, I had an inhibitor to it. "This will Project Share. The FEIBA is what a require double, triple, or even higher haemophiliac can use to stop a bleed dosages," he said. Being fully aware when he has a Factor VIII inhibitor. of my family's financial status, the Project Share sent more than 90 boxes hospital sent me home. My parents of FEIBA for my operation in July did everything they could to make 2007. Even with that huge amount, I me comfortable. I was totally crippled didn't manage to heal fully. I was very

The Far East - May 2013 5 Columbans return to Myanmar After an absence of over 30 years and with a warm welcome from Bishop Francis of Myitkyina, Myanmar, Columban priests will be soon returning to work in this diocese. A new Columban team comprising priests and lay missionaries will once again begin to serve the people of Myanmar. Columban Sisters returned to the Diocese of Myitkyina, Myanmar in 2001. Columban History in Myanmar (Burma) The Columbans began missionary work in Burma (Myanmar) in 1936 among the Kachin tribal people in northern Burma. By 1939, the Columban area had became the Prefecture Apostolic of Banmaw (transition stage to becoming a diocese) under Columban Bishop Patrick Usher and was served by 38 Columban priests. This area became the Diocese of Myitkyina in 1961, with Columban Bishop John Howe as the first bishop of the diocese.

In 1966, the Myanmar Government ordered all missionaries who had arrived after 1948 to leave the country. No new missionaries would be allowed. In 1977, Bishop Howe consecrated Fr Paul Grawng as the new Bishop of Myitkyina. Fr Paul had been ordained in 1965 by Bishop Howe as the first Kachin priest. The last three Columbans left Myanmar in 1979.

A Columban with a Kachin wedding group in the early days in Burma. Columbans lived among the Kachin tribal people. A woman prepares lunch at a boarding house. Fr Sean Conneely (below) with a Buddhist monk on a recent trip to Myanmar.

6 The Far East - May 2013 In 2012, Fr Sean Conneely visited Bishop Francis of Myitkyina, Myanmar (Burma). He discovered that Bishop Francis, the priests and the people of his diocese have many fond memories of the Columbans. FR SEAN CONNEELY

t was a great honour to be running from the far North to the I asked by Bishop Francis Indian Ocean. Now it must be one of of Myitkyina to concelebrate Mass the poorest countries in Asia. with him in the packed Cathedral As John, the Kachin driver, drove of St Columban in Myitkyina. This us along the dusty roads, I tried to Cathedral had been built by Bishop imagine what it was like for all those John Howe in 1960 and was next to Columban Fathers and Sisters who the minor seminary built and run had to leave Burma prematurely in the by the Columbans in the 1950s and 60s and 70s because of Government 1960s. They are both now run by pressure. I shared my thoughts with Bishop Francis Daw Tang and his local Bishop Francis. “I was a young priest at diocesan priests. the time,” he said. “I had grown up with At the end of the Mass, Archbishop the Columbans, and I was with the last of being with Bishop Francis at the Francis asked me to say a few words group as they drove to the airport. opening Mass of the annual two- which he translated. I thanked them As we left the city their last wish was to month education programme for 90 for their warm welcome to me, but be allowed to visit the graves of fellow catechists and Church workers from even more so for their care, respect Priests and Sisters who had died here. As the parishes of the Kachin State. and love shown to so many Columban they prayed tears ran down their faces Ordinary men, who farm and labour in Priests and Sisters in the past. like Spring rain. They were broken- the mountain areas, take two months Visiting Burma I encountered a hearted both to be leaving the people off every year to share and learn from respect and interest in the Columbans they loved, and to be leaving the graves each other. Some were delayed by unlike any other place I’ve ever been of their colleagues behind them. They war, strife and pillaging in their area. in. They knew the names of all the were leaving their life’s work unfinished; For others the roads were mined and Columbans who had worked there, leaving their dreams, hopes and desires so dangerous to travel. I only wished where they were presently located, behind. Their churches, schools and I had the language skills to hear their or when and where they had died. clinics were being taken over by a stories. When the annual session is And in various places there were Government hostile to Christian religion over they return to their villages to memorials to those who had worked and values. Most of them felt they could lead their congregations in prayer, and died in Myitkyina Diocese. never return again; most did not, a few liturgy and catechesis, even while did.” Fr Sean Conneely (below) with a Buddhist monk on a recent trip to Myanmar. It was a tragic turn in history when they work on their own farms and the military-socialist government raise their families. took over the country in 1964. But thank God the Church did not There is the possibility that Columban They nationalized the schools and die among the Kachins, rather it built schools will be handed back. hospitals, and made it so impossible flourished under persecution and The Government is beginning to see for missionaries to work there that is flourishing still. the need for an educated people. the last Columbans decided to leave The Kachin Army is still fighting for for health reasons in 1979. Columban But thank God the Church did not more autonomy, and for a share of the Bishop John Howe had been Bishop die among the Kachins, rather it mineral wealth of their areas. of Myitkyina Diocese at the time and flourished under persecution and The people have hope and with was replaced by Bishop Paul Grawng is flourishing still. With Bishop Paul Aung San Suu Kyi now once more in 1977. at its head, the 10 local priests of democratically elected as a State Burma was one of the richest 1977 became 50. There are now two deputy, we can only pray their hopes countries in Asia in the 1950s, dioceses, three local Bishops and will be fully realised. exporting rice, jade, gold, rubber and many religious priests and Sisters. teak wood. In the great Irrawaddy And above all there is a fervent and Fr Sean Conneely has worked in Korea for River it had a perfect natural highway committed laity. I had the privilege 40 years.

The Far East - May 2013 7 Columbans welcome Pope Francis FR KEVIN O'NEILL Fr Kevin O'Neill, Superior General of the Missionary Society of St Columban, speaks about how Pope Francis' words give visible and tangible expression.

involving us Christians alone. It also has a prior dimension which is simply Pope Francis human, involving everyone. We are to Francis, you have made a be protectors of creation, protectors mighty start. of God’s plan inscribed in nature, protectors of one another and of the Please go on, further, deeper, environment.” wider. As a member of a Missionary Society, I believe that his words carry a You are giving heart to the special message. The vocation of disheartened. the missionary Church is to discern the presence of Christ within all A whisper of hope to the expressions of human life and to give disenchanted. that presence visible and tangible Renewed inspiration to the expression. abandoned.

As Christians on a missionary Please don't falter, but take pilgrimage, we are called to fan care. the sparks of hope enkindled You are putting fire into the by Christ living among us in ashes, sometimes yet unknown ways, into a fire in human hearts. White smoke into the chimneys, Photo: Alessia Paradisi/ABACAUSA.COM/AAP Alessia Photo: Pope Francis. As Christians on a missionary Warmth into the congealed pilgrimage, we are called to fan the and frozen. sparks of hope enkindled by Christ olumban Missionaries living among us in sometimes yet C throughout the world join You have already signed unknown ways, into a fire in human with Catholics in welcoming the joyful yourself in as Francis, and hearts. news of the election of Pope Francis. given us a sign of hope, and Like Simon, for whom the new name We pray that Pope Francis will be in that hope we take up life Peter had a deep significance, the blessed abundantly with the gifts of anew. new Pope’s decision to assume the faith and wisdom, compassion and name Francis seems to indicate his zeal in being a witness of the Good May our loving God of all strong desire to lead the Church in News of Jesus Christ not only to God's people strengthen you prayer, simplicity of life and the care of Catholics, but to all peoples. in conviction against the creation. challenges that lie ahead. On March 19th, the feast of St Joseph, - Fr Kevin O’Neill became Superior General of - Poem written on Good Friday 2013 Pope Francis said in his Homily that, the Missionary Society of St Columban on by Columban Fr Leo Donnelly in "The vocation of being a protector, September 20, 2012 at the General Assembly Lima, Peru. like St Joseph, is not just something in Los Angeles. He is based in Hong Kong.

8 The Far East - May 2013 Pope's Coat of Arms REFLECTION Pope Francis has chosen the motto "Miserando atque eligendo", meaning lowly but chosen.

THE SHIELD Pope Francis has decided to keep his previous coat of arms, chosen at the time of his episcopal consecration and marked by linear simplicity. The blue shield is surmounted by the symbols of papal dignity, the same as those used by his Predecessor Benedict XVI (the mitre above crossed keys of gold and silver, bound by the red cord). At the top of the shield is the emblem of the Pope's religious order, the Society of Jesus: a radiant sun carrying the letters in red, IHS, the monogram of Jesus. The letter H is crowned by a cross; beneath the letters are three black nails. Lower down on the shield there is a star and spikenard flower. The star, according to ancient armorial tradition, symbolizes the Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ and the Church; while the spikenard symbolizes St Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church. In traditional Hispanic iconography, St Joseph is shown with a vine in his hand. By bearing these images on his shield, the Pope communicates This homily is a tribute to Divine of tender love, called him to religious his special devotion to the Most Holy Mercy and is read during the life, following the example of St Virgin and to St Joseph. Liturgy of the Hours on the Feast Ignatius of Loyola. of St Matthew. This has particular THE MOTTO Once he had been ordained a Bishop, significance in the life and spirituality "Miserando atque eligendo" H.E. Mons. Bergoglio, in memory of of the Pope. this event that signified the beginning The motto of Pope Francis is taken In fact, on the Feast of St Matthew of his total consecration to God in His from a passage from the venerable in 1953, the young Jorge Bergoglio Church, chose, as his motto and as his Bede, Homily 22, on the Feast of experienced, at the age of 17, in a very programme of life, the words of Matthew, which reads: Vidit ergo Jesus special way, the loving presence of St Bede: miserando atque eligendo. publicanum, et quia miserando atque God in his life. eligendo vidit, ait illi, ‘Sequere me’. This he has chosen to keep in his (Jesus therefore sees the tax collector, Following confession, he felt his heart papal coat of arms. and since he sees and chooses with touched and he sensed the descent mercy, He says to him, ‘follow me’). of the Mercy of God, who with a gaze - Source: Vatican Website

The Far East - May 2013 9 Photo: bigstockphoto.com Shahbaz Bhatti.

A typical street in Faisalabad, Pakistan near where Shahbaz Bhatti (inset) was born. The meaning of the Cross Two years ago on March 2, Clement Shahbaz Bhatti, a Catholic and the only Christian member of the Cabinet in Pakistan, was assassinated in Islamabad just after he had left his mother’s house. Recently Columban Fr Tomás King, Coordinator of the Columban Mission Unit in Pakistan, met Gerard Bhatti, a brother of Shahbaz, and wrote this article.

hahbaz Bhatti was the The founding of these villages made Clement. The family owns four acres S youngest in a family of a huge impact on the sense of dignity of land, now farmed by Sikandar. and self-worth of an oppressed group one sister and five brothers. They His mother is still alive while his father, of people. were born in the Catholic village of Jacob, died only weeks before his Khushpur, near the city of Faisalabad Khushpur has produced two bishops martyrdom. Christian or ‘Western’ in the Punjab. Khushpur means and many priests and sisters. It is also names were usually given by the ‘Happy Land.’ It was named after the home of the National Catechists missionaries. The two youngest its founder, Fr Felix, a Capuchin Training Centre. There are 300 families children being given Sub-continent missionary, his name being the Latin in the village. names maybe reflects the need to fit for ‘happy’. Jaclyn, the only sister, was the first- in as the country gradually became The village was founded in 1900. It born, followed by Paul, who was more Islamised. is one of 53 such villages founded appointed Federal Minister for Despite being implored to the throughout the country by various Minorities Affairs after the death of his contrary, in his 20s Shahbaz decided missionary congregations, mostly brother, Peter, Gerard, Sikandar and not to marry so as to devote his life to before the partition of 1947. Shahbaz, whose Christian name was the struggle for human rights of the

10 The Far East - May 2013 PAKISTAN

oppressed and for justice and peace, to Lahore to study for a degree in his murder. His life is symbolic of the which was a very counter-cultural science. All the time he was involved bigger picture of the Pakistan reality. commitment to make. in human rights issues. In Khushpur, on the occasion of the From an early age Shahbaz showed In 2002 he was elected as a member second anniversary of his death there leadership abilities. Even as a teenager of the National Assembly and became will be prayers, memorials, programs in high school he spoke out against the first Christian to be a full federal and seminars in his memory. As years the oppression of his Christian minister after the elections in 2008. go by it is hoped that the significance community. A defining moment in He used this position to campaign and meaning of Shahbaz’s life and his consciousness seems to have against the Blasphemy Laws, as well death will be understood more occurred in his late teenage years as dialogue with all people of good deeply. when some Muslims tried to take over will committed to human rights and When the government offered land owned by Christians. Then he justice. Shahbaz’s Ministry for Minorities started the Christian Liberation Front, He knew his life was in danger and his Affairs to the family, they chose Paul the first of many organisations he was family warned him many times and as the oldest son to carry the vision to either found or belong too. urged him to leave the country. He and legacy of Shahbaz forward. Paul is refused to do so. As a faithful disciple a medical doctor by profession. He knew his life was in danger of Jesus who gave his life, Shahbaz Gerard himself has received death and his family warned him many too felt he must continue his struggle, times and urged him to leave the threats by phone. He is actively no matter the consequences. He got involved in his adopted Cathedral country. He refused to do so. As a to know deeply the meaning of the parish of Hyderabad, many miles from faithful disciple of Jesus who gave cross. He is considered a martyr by his home village of Khushpur. his life, Shahbaz too felt he must the Christian faithful and people pray continue his struggle, no matter to him, and some claim their prayers the consequences. He got to know have been answered. deeply the meaning of the cross. Some people have been arrested Columban Fr Tomás King is the Mission Unit but nobody has been charged with Coordinator in Pakistan. He was committed to individual daily prayer as well as regular attendance at the Eucharist. Psalm 23, "The Lord is my Shepherd," was a favourite of his, especially in latter years when his life was under threat. This highlights an important dimension of inculturation in the Church in Pakistani, especially those coming from the Punjabi community: the Psalms were translated at an early stage into Punjabi and are sung like lively folk songs. They are deeply embedded in the spirituality of the people. Devotion to St Anthony of Padua is also an important part of the spirituality of Pakistani Christians. Shahbaz graduated from high school in his home village. From there he went to the nearby city of Faisalabad for his pre-university courses, then Fr Tomás King with Gerard Bhatti.

The Far East - May 2013 11 Christians under attack FR TOMÁS KING Photos: King Tomás Fr

In March 9, 2013, Badami Bagh, the Christian Colony in Lahore, was attacked by a mob of 3000 men, stirred up over the supposed blasphemy of one of the residents. Over 180 houses were burnt, 18 shops and two churches were burnt down. Terrified residents fled from their homes as the mob approached. Columban Fr Tomás King wrote the following report on the background to the attack.

uch has been written about the attack on the such incidents in the first place. It does not auger well if M Christian Colony in Lahore on March 9, 2013 and is they get back into power in the forthcoming elections. easily accessible on the internet. There is not much new that It seems that it is another case of the Blasphemy Law being I can say but I will make a few brief points: abused to get minorities such as Christians, with prime The Badami Bagh attack could have been prevented. property, to lose control of it to others. This Christian Colony Like similar incidents in recent years like Gojra, Sangla is in prime location and it seems there were vested interests Hill and Shanti Nagar, this need not have happened. The wanting this property. authorities knew there was trouble brewing. The police The work to rebuild the houses started within days of the warned the people that there was danger of attack. Instead attacks. This is commendable but an opportunity was lost. of preventing it, they told the Christians to leave and so The original colony had little streets barely four feet wide. they left their houses and possessions to the mercy of the The new houses are being built on the footprint of the old. frenzied attackers and looters. With foresight and planning the colony could be This attack happened in Lahore, arguably the most constructed in a more livable way, especially regarding cosmopolitan city in the country. It is also the city of the creating living space and playing space for children, as well Sharif brothers, Nawaz, a former Prime Minister on two as proper ventilation. This would make things a little more occasions with aspirations to being the same again after comfortable in the oppressive heat of a Lahore summer, the forthcoming elections, and his younger brother Shabaz, which is getting longer and more intense due to climate current Chief Minister of the Punjab Province, of which change. Lahore is capital. Economically and population-wise Punjab Irony: the police did nothing to prevent the attack but a is 60% of Pakistan. few days later they attacked Christians and others with tear Nawaz as Prime Minister enacted the most sinister elements gas and batons, who were protesting the attack on Badami of the present Blasphemy Law. Shabaz has been Chief Bagh. Minister while some of the above incidents occurred. They, A week after the attack I attended the annual meeting of and the political party they lead, do have a practice and the Major Religious Leadership Conference. All present history of appeasing the extreme elements which cause condemned the attack on the Christians. But the meeting

12 The Far East - May 2013 PAKISTAN

also challenged the Christian community and its leaders to “The immediate responsibility for this act lies primarily with reach out to other minorities who are also being attacked. the police and district administration that despite prior A prime example of this is the Hazara community in knowledge failed to act. The ultimate responsibility rests Balouchistan who are Shia. Already hundreds of them have squarely with the provincial government." been blown up in suicide bombs this year alone. The HRCP mission also took note of statements made by When other minorities are attacked, Christians and their the people, that the raiders were ordinary residents from leaders need to reach out to them and offer them support the adjacent areas and could not be identified as a group. and solidarity. On the few occasions this has happened it That points to the effect of accumulated animus against the has been much appreciated. It also develops networks of minority communities. support and enables Christians to break out of their ghetto It is understandable that the attacks on Christians will mentality. receive a high degree of media attention in the West, but other minorities also need to be given attention. When other minorities are attacked Christians and Concerned citizens and the organizations that they belong their leaders need to reach out to them, offer them to need to continue to lobby their governments to put support and solidarity. On the few occasions this pressure on the new Pakistani government to actively has happened it has been much appreciated. It also protect the rights of minorities, which includes action of develops networks of support and enables Christians the notorious Blasphemy Law. The forthcoming elections to break out of their ghetto mentality. are important. Will the extremists make gains? Will they be accommodated in a coalition government whether they are in the centre or in one of the provinces? That is a danger. Or The response of ordinary people of all faiths and will Pakistan take a step back from the brink and opt to vote communities to the attack was one of solidarity and for the more secular and tolerant parties? support. There was a constant stream of visitors to the attack site, to meet and condole with the people, bring food, household utensils, clothes and food. This is a sign yet again that vast majority of people do not support the extremists, though they may be fearful of saying it strongly. A preliminary report of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) finds that the responsibility for the incident has to be ascribed at two levels - immediate and ultimate. Columban Fr Tomás King is the Mission Unit Coordinator in Pakistan.

The Far East - May 2013 13 PHILIPPINES Photo: Glenys Gayfer Glenys Photo:

$10 turns on the lights GLENYS GAYFER I n February 2013 the Social with the health and fires issues nurse in Zambales who works with Justice Group from St from candles, kerosene and smoke children with hare lips, cleft palates Francis Xavier's Parish, Montmorency inhalation. In addition, the young and people with burns. in Melbourne, travelled to the people found they felt safer walking The lights are an Australian invention Philippines to meet with Columban in lit areas that were previously dark. and cost AUD$10 each which includes Fr Shay Cullen, the founder of PREDA Fr Shay said that the lights would be shipping costs. (People's Recovery Empowerment and wonderful for the indigenous families, Development Assistance Foundation, the Aetas, that he works with up in Learn more about the solar lights: www.illuminationsolar.com Inc). the mountains around Zambales as When the group met with Fr Shay, they have no electricity. The lights are To support and become part of the Solar they discussed a Solar Light project long lasting and can be used to light Light project please contact Glenys Gayfer that they were trialling with three up a room as lamps or torches. from the Montmorency Social Justice Group on 0411 196 395 or other organisations in the Philippines. Montmorency Parish Social Justice Email: [email protected]. The feedback was very positive. Group would like to buy 2,000 lights The solar lights cut back on the cost and divide them between three of electricity. Those who didn't communities - PREDA, Damayan have electricity now had access to Community Centre in Malabon run lighting in their homes. The lights by the Good Shepherd Sisters and also removed the dangers associated Val Smith-Orr an Australian volunteer

14 The Far East - May 2013 The seven pillars F our Columban parishes and one Diocesan parish in Chile are busily preparing to receive young pilgrims from Australia and New Zealand in July 2013 en-route to World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The pilgrims will be coming from 12 Dioceses in Australia and one from Christchurch, New Zealand. A special committee has been selected in each of the five Chilean parishes to prepare a programme for the pilgrim visitors.

This programme will have seven key pillars: • Faith Sharing - The Eucharist will be celebrated each day in the parish in Spanish, A special space will be set aside in with the pilgrims invited to do a reading or sing hymns in English. A time for the each of the five Parish Churches as a Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and a session of Lectio Divina are also space for the pilgrims. These spaces being planned. will be called "Espacio Aussi" and • Cultural Exchange and Friendship - The Chilean parishioners and the Australian "Espacio Kiwi". Each of these spaces and New Zealand pilgrims will share songs, dances, music, national foods and will have posters representing the craftwork together. seven key pillars outlined above, as well as national flags, photos, English • Mission - The Chilean parishes are participating in Latin American wide Bibles and other national symbols. Continental Mission. The pilgrims will be invited to have an experience at the parish level of the Continental Mission by going out on mission. The Far East will provide coverage • Pastoral Experience - The pilgrims will be invited to share pastoral experiences of the preparations for the Mission with the parishioners visiting places such as local schools, medical centres, Experience in Chile as well as the rehabilitation centres, police stations and centres for the aged. Mission Experience itself in July. • A project in benefit of the parish- The pilgrims will be asked to participate one afternoon in preparing alongside the parishioners some special project that will remain in the parish after they have left. Possible projects include: raised gardens; murals; mud ovens and a cooking project. • A fun afternoon of sport to be followed by a BBQ - The parishioners and the pilgrims will join in an afternoon of games such as tug of war, sack races and other fun activities. This will be followed by a BBQ prepared by the parish. • A day of Visits to Important Sites - Parishioners and pilgrims will visit together the Santiago's Cathedral and the shrines to Chilean saints - Teresa of the Andes and Albert Hurtado. They will also visit the Shrine to the Immaculate Conception of Mary, overlooking the city. Photo: Fr Dan Harding Dan Fr Photo: The Australian and New Zealand pilgrims will share songs, dances and music with the Chileans.

The Far East - May 2013 15 Mission World

We ask your prayers: The prayers of our readers are requested for the repose of the souls of friends and benefactors of the Missionary Society of St Columban who died recently: also for the spiritual and the temporal welfare of all our readers, their families and friends.

Easter message from the Archbishop of Seoul: "Graces and blessings on our brothers and sisters in North Korea" during a time of threats of war

bundant graces and blessings dispute with North Korea. What should "is not just an event that happened in "A for our brothers and sisters, we do to become an instrument of peace? the past." "The risen Lord is with us at the separated from us in North Korea." We must believe in the Resurrection of moment. If we believe in his presence, This is what Archbishop Andrew Yeom Christ and to live the Resurrection. To everything can be changed, nothing is Soo-jung of Seoul said in his Easter believe in Christ with profound faith in impossible to God." message. He hoped that peace will the face of evil or pain means to embrace "God's love and peace be with all of always prevail in the Korean peninsula. the agony of others and help others to you and all of Korea," the message carry their cross." The message, sent to Fides Agency, concludes. comes at a time of high political and The Archbishop points out the military tension between the two relevance of the Resurrection that - Source: Fides - 03/04/2013 Koreas. Recalling that "love and peace of the Risen Lord have flooded the world with Easter joy," the Archbishop invites everyone to "pray for those suffering from physical and spiritual pain" and especially "for the brothers and sisters of North Korea." "With the resurrection of Jesus Christ, God shows us that death is not the end but a new beginning: we move from darkness to light, from death to a new life." That "new life" is what the Archbishop wishes for all the Korean people, North and South. "We live in a time when one needs peace more than ever, and we Christians must become the instrument that brings the peace of Jesus in the world.

Our country is far from peace because of Photo:iStockphoto.com the unstable political situation and the South Koreans protest against threats from North Korea.

Mission Intention for May That seminaries, especially those of mission Churches, may form pastors after the Heart of Christ, fully dedicated to the proclaiming of the Gospel.

16 The Far East - May 2013 From the Director

A living person not a memory

P entecost Sunday this year fell on May 19 which the gift of God's living presence in them even if it meant coincidentally is my ordination anniversary. I was death. The New testament relates that Stephen was the ordained in 1972 which seems like a long time in terms first martyr, and he chose death rather than reject his faith of years but a short time in terms of experience. I have in the risen Lord. learned a great deal from books and lectures but even We are aware of the declining belief in the risen Lord in more from the insights that people have into what it Europe in our own countries and among our own families. means to believe in Jesus Christ. I see many grandparents bringing their grandchildren to For example, one insight that made me stop and think was Sunday Mass introducing them to the practice of a faith that it is clear from a close reading of the gospels and Acts that their children do not think is important to hand on. of the Apostles that the first believers, the apostles were Non-belief which was a sort of sub-text during a time committed to a living Christ, not the memory of a dead of strong belief, has become visible and sometimes one. aggressive in the media and in society. It is not a new They had seen the Lord risen; they had touched him and phenomenon to kick the Catholics but what is new is the eaten with him after his death. He carried the wounds whole Christian message is being derided. There is no of His torture and death but He was alive. Even though doubt either that the bigger and stronger that the Catholic memories are powerful and can sustain us for a long time, Church became, it did not necessarily become better. I find it hard to believe that the memory of a dead person Pope Francis has appeared on the scene with an agenda would sustain generations of people who would commit that points to the Church returning to its roots of service themselves to martyrdom for a memory. and commitment. The Church is learning to be humble; it is a painful lesson but necessary. Belief and non-belief go hand in hand. From the To return to the main point, we are part of a very long earliest days to the present time Christian people tradition that believes in the living risen Christ, not have treasured the gift of God's living presence in the memory of a dead one. The scriptures tell us that them even if it meant death. breakthrough initiatives are always through the power of the Holy Spirit. We are in safe hands.

Pentecost Sunday is the special day when the Holy Spirit arrived like a strong wind filling the hearts of many disciples with the presence of the living Christ,

Photo:iStockphoto.com not just a memory. The Acts of the Apostles relates the dramatic episode of people receiving a change of heart, a conversion to the living risen Christ. At the same time, some people laughed it off saying that these people had been drinking too much new wine.

Belief and non-belief go hand in hand. From the earliest Fr Gary Walker days to the present time Christian people have treasured [email protected]

The Far East - May 2013 17 Photos: Sr Martina Sr KimPhotos:

Sr Martina Kim with local children.

Bringing hope in Huaycan SR MARTINA KIM Despite being extremely poor and depressing, Huaycan, a shantytown on the outskirts of Lima, Peru, is known as the "City of Hope." Columban Sr Martina Kim works hard with the local people to truly make Huaycan a city of hope.

remember the first day I on an arch, “Welcome to the City of and a community hall. Three years I arrived in Peru. After flying Hope.” Seeing it for the first time I on, I was able to build a proper brick the long distance from Seoul, over 20 thought it was indeed a city in need house for the children as the After- hours, I was extremely thirsty so when of hope because, visually, it was quite School Centre. I got into our house, I asked for a glass depressive, a desert environment with After walking up and down the red of water. I gulped it down and was dry, red dirt hills. dirt hills for five years I now realize sick. This is my first memory of Peru, That first year there I spent lots of time that, almost without knowing it, I the strange taste of water, it was so visiting different places, getting to have become one of the people in different. know the people. Then, after the year, the village. I can even drink the water It was quite a shock to this I began to work in Zone-R, the highest here! newcomer and the beginning of my area in Huaycan. It is called Camino al Recently, I came face to face with my uncomfortable learning of the many Cielo, which means “the Road to the limitations after meeting Sophia, a things that seemed strange to me in Heaven.” mother whose life differs radically the Peruvian life and culture. Since I began working with children, from the beliefs, values and customs then I have tried to learn and adapt to helping them with their homework that I absorbed from my family, the ways of the people here. and other needs. In the beginning, education, culture, and religion. After finishing language study I was we met in the kitchen of one of the Sophia is a mother of seven children, assigned to Huaycan, located on children's shanty houses. who sells sweets daily, on the streets outskirts of East Lima. At the entrance Later, with the help of generous of Huaycan, with her two youngest road to Huaycan, I saw a banner benefactors, I rented two small rooms children. She does not have regular

18 The Far East - May 2013 PERU

work because of her large family. told me that Angel had come back Worse still, none of the children’s home and had come to the Centre fathers support her. She is like the with his homework. I feared I had Samaritan woman in St John’s Gospel; misunderstood but when I saw Angel she has had many husbands but not I was overjoyed. I could hardly believe one of them is a real husband to her. it because Sophia’s reaction had But Sophia is a strong woman; she seemed so negative, as though she is a safe haven for her kids as she did not care whether Angel was safe raises them by herself in a situation of or not. terrible poverty. No wonder she made this One day I found that her two children, A view of Huaycan. who normally come to the Children’s decision; there was no other Centre, had not arrived. So I visited option as the family would surely her. Because she had no money, die of hunger had they stayed Sophia had sent three of her children together. to different places. One was sent to his father and the other two were sent to When I walk up the red dirt road up to her sisters. Her family could not get the children’s Centre I always prepare by on the pittance she made selling myself for unexpected happenings sweets. No wonder she made this there. Little Angel’s return was the decision; there was no other option as Good News for me that day. the family would surely die of hunger How many years must the people had they stayed together. suffer this terrible poverty before they After visiting Sophia, I felt helpless have peace? How many children must and frustrated at the difficulties die before there is enough food for she faced. She is one of the many them? The reality for the people of mothers in my area. They face similar Camino al Cielo seems hardly to have difficulties, but Sophia’s case is changed for the better. wretched and her problems continue When I see Sophia, I honestly say that in a vicious circle. Sophia with her children. I find it difficult to have hope for her. Then, a mother at our Children’s Yet, little shoots, tiny flowers of hope Centre told me that Sophia’s six-year- do spring up all around. I need to old boy, Angel, who had been sent learn a different way of seeing, learn to his father, was often badly beaten to hope for the people who never by him. She felt the child was in grave give up. They are my teachers. danger. I immediately went again to When I had been in Peru a year, a Sophia and tried to persuade her to Korean sister visiting us asked me for take Angel back to her house. a glass of water. When she drank the She refused to believe the charges large glass I gave her, she said, “What and denied that the boy was being a lovely taste!” This was the same ill-treated by his father. She seemed water I had rejected several years not to know the risks that Angel before. Why was it different for her? faced. It was a tense and frustrating I have to live with that question. discussion. I came away feeling angry and powerless. Columban Sr Martina Kim from Hong Cheon, Korea, qualified as a Social Worker in The following day, when I got into the Birmingham before being sent to Peru where Centre, Carmen, one of the teachers, she has been on mission for the last 6 years. Children's Centre.

The Far East - May 2013 19 Not rescued but condemned FR JOHN KEENAN Fr Keenan celebrates Mass every Sunday in a children's detention centre in Manila, the Philippines.

aria dela Cruz, 15, and bare wooden floors side by side like Reception Centre' and is run by the M Lourdes Garcia, 16, (not sardines in stifling heat and poor same authorities as the RAC. their real names) were abducted one ventilation. This centre is run by the Again the situation is one of over- night near their homes and taken to a City of Manila and the Department of crowding, absence of furniture, detention centre near Manila City Hall Social Welfare and Development. bedding, privacy, ventilation, because of ‘bagansa’ (vagrancy, ie, adequate recreation, reading being out during curfew). The fact is that most of the materials. For many it is a place Instead of being taken home to children should not be there in the without hope as their cases may go their parents they were dumped first place since they are innocent. on for months or years due to lack of into an already overcrowded, poorly Instead of being ‘rescued’ they are legal representation and due process. ventilated detention centre called being condemned. By law minors are supposed to be ‘Reception and Action Centre’ (RAC). released from behind bars after Most children do not know what The main problems are over- eight hours and turned over to curfew is and anyhow they do not crowding, shortage of food, clothing, the Department of Social Welfare have watches or know how to observe adequate facilities, privacy and staff. and Development (DSWD) for re- education and counselling, but this the curfew hours. It is estimated that In another building in the same seldom happens. there are up to 20,000 children behind compound some 170 children in bars in the Philippines. trouble with the law for petty crime To compound the children's trauma, In RAC some 70 children aged such as stealing cell-phones, earrings, they are herded into sub-human between one and 16 years are packed cash and serious bodily harm. They conditions, small children along with into three rooms barely big enough are held in six dormitories. This big teenagers in an atmosphere of for 30. They have to sleep on the building is called 'Manila Youth fear and trepidation. Such crammed

Fr Keenan shares Christmas gifts with some of the young prisoners. Fr Keenan celebrates Mass at Reception and Action Centre. Photos: Fr John Keenan Fr Photos:

20 The Far East - May 2013 PHILIPPINES

Without education or a livelihood will they end up as prostitutes, criminals and be shot at sight by the agents of an unjust society?

conditions spawns all kinds of abuse, by the children and staff. Before Mass budget, until they find their parents introduction to vice and fights among the volunteers give the children or guardians. I feel that my presence themselves. They are allowed out for religious instruction and I usually there gives them spiritual and moral only half an hour’s recreation and meet them individually. This gives me support in what could easily be a for their meals three times a day. The a chance to get to know them and very depressing job. They are very rest of the time they are cooped up their background. They are lovely welcoming and accommodating. inside in the stifling heat. They have children. Our work there complements what no opportunity for study or improving Even though it is supposed to be a they are trying to do in convincing the themselves. free education system most of these children to avoid barkadas (peers who RAC is understaffed and does not children drop out of school by 10 due are a bad influences) and vices and to have enough social workers to keep to problems such as lack of food and go back to school. pamasahe (fares for public transport), up with the cases to set them free. Please keep these children in your There is little hope for them? The fact is that most of the children prayers. should not be there in the first place Without education or a livelihood since they are innocent. Instead will they end up as prostitutes and of being ‘rescued’ they are being criminals and be shot on sight by the condemned. It has been suggested agents of an unjust society? It is very that the barangay (municipal) officials sad indeed. and police are being rewarded for The RAC staff, who are social workers, filling their quota of arrests. are very committed to the welfare I celebrate Mass in RAC every Sunday of the children and do their best to Columban Fr John Keenan first went to the morning, which is much appreciated feed and take care of them on a slim Philippines in 1966.

Fr Keenan celebrates Mass at Reception and Action Centre. Outstretched hands - a sign of desperation.

The Far East - May 2013 21 CHINA Photo: bigstockphoto.com The man who likes his wine SR JOAN O'CONNOR Sr Joan O'Connor tells us how God is found everywhere.

t was one of the poorest villages I had visited in up everything to serve the poor. As the young Sr Superior I China. As our driver, Mr Wang Gou Hai, wended responded I gave thanks to God for the simple way in which his way between the narrow streets, I was struck by the she gave witness to the Gospel with her life. Afterwards, as stark poverty all around. This happened some years ago, we helped to clean up, I noticed Mr Wang gazing intently when China’s much-vaunted economic growth had barely at a faded picture of the Last Supper, the only decoration touched many of the interior regions where people still on the bare walls of the room. The afternoon was taken up grappled with the age-old problem of basic survival. with simple rehabilitation guidance for the children, my speciality, and arrangements to return and give a training We received a warm welcome from the Sisters, about 40 course to the Sisters. in all. The majority of them were quite youthful, a striking hallmark of the vibrant Church in China. Over the simple Mr Wang wandered about and chatted to anyone who had midday meal they told us about their life and work. They time to talk to him. Arriving home late that night, Mr Wang took care of about 50 disabled children. Most had been seemed ready for a long session as we shared an evening picked up from the highways and byways. That very meal together. "You know," he said, "I can't help thinking morning a disabled five-day-old baby had been left on the this religion or whatever you call it is a good thing, I can see doorstep lying in a cardboard box. how it helps people." Then looking intently at me he said, "Tell me more about the man who likes his wine." God is found everywhere we look, even in a faded Thrown for an instant, and not sure who he was referring to, picture on the wall. I hesitated. Then I remembered that I had seen him gazing at the picture of the Last Supper. Aware that as foreigners and guests we are forbidden to discuss politics and religion, The centre had little by way of modern conveniences. No I promised Mr Wang that he would be my driver on the next beds or cots; the little ones lay on long planks and in the trip to that particular centre. Then he could ask the Sisters freezing weather snuggled close and kept each other warm. everything about “the man who likes his wine,” as he called The Sisters did not complain but were happy to be able to him. feed the children with the produce from an acre of ground at the back of the convent. They lived an austere life of Over and over during my time in China, I have had prayer, reflection, study and unremitting manual labour, in experiences of God’s tangible presence in this vast country. their efforts to give the children the best care they could While not able to engage in direct evangelization, I have on manage. In spite of all this austerity, love, joy, laughter and numberless occasions been a go-between in proclaiming peace flowed in abundance about the place. the Kingdom of God. God is found everywhere we look, even in a faded picture on the wall. During the meal, Mr Wang, who was city-bred and ex-army to boot, seemed unusually interested in all that was said. Columban Sr Joan O'Connor is a specialist in conductive education He scrutinised the Sisters’ faces as they spoke, and asked for disabled children and has worked in Hong Kong and China for sharp questions about their life, and why they had given many years. 22 The Far East - May 2013 Supporting Fr Don's work

Columban Fr Donald Kill is the founder of "Blood Brothers Aid" which cares for Haemophilia patients in the Philippines. Columbans around the world are involved in many organisations and are grateful to Columban benefactors for their continued support. This work would not be possible without the assistance of Columban benefactors. Their work continues because of your generosity.

Thank You. Photo: Don Fr Kill Your kindness and support make it possible for Columbans to meet and minister to many people. Your "stringless" gift helps us to respond with flexibility to the mosturgent needs of people.

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