Up Sails! the INTERNATIONAL LETTER of FAITH and LIGHT N° 48, JUNE 2021

Up Sails! THE INTERNATIONAL LETTER OF FAITH AND LIGHT N° 48, JUNE 2021

Come Spirit, Father of the poor

Summary

Editorial • Pentecost : The gift of the Holy Spirit 3

Message from Pope Francis 4

News from the international 5

Reports • USA East: Technology brings us together 6 • Assembly in Luzitana 8 • Belgium: A formation session 10

Testimonies • The Jesus Kiss 12 • Being a mum, a dream 14 • Fragility without borders 16 • What welcome could I offer? 18 • Kathleen Jopp 19 • A musical comedy 20 • The joy of forgiveness 21 • Hello “little lights” 22

For our reflection • 12 April 1971 – 12 April 2021 23 Faith and Light is 50!

International Agenda 24

New documents 24

Family album 25

Marie-Hélène's letter 27 • The strength of the look

Annual paper subscription: 20€ : 20 €

Faith and Light international 3 rue du Laos 75015 Paris France T. + 33 1 53 69 44 30 - [email protected]

www.faithandlight.org

Editorial director: Raúl Izquierdo Chief editor and layout: Corinne Chatain

Editorial

Pentecost The gift of the Holy Spirit

Raúl Izquierdo International coordinator

e can read in the Gospels that after are then able to speak in languages that the the death of Jesus, his disciples were whole world understands: the language of ser- W afraid because, apparently, Jesus’s vice, forgiveness, welcome, small details, reju- plan had failed. They did not feel safe, but in venation, joyful gestures, love. the depths of their hearts, there was still a I encourage you to discover the presence of place for trust in Jesus. In those times, we can the Spirit of God in your daily life, even in the imagine Mary supporting the group, encoura- midst of what is seemingly the most humdrum, ging them, trying to bring joy and hope into the most arduous, the most difficult. This Spirit this situation. of God spreads over every one of us with infi- And one day, when they met, something nite abundance to encourage us, to push us happened. God sent the Holy Spirit on each of and to give meaning to what we do. In the them! And after this gift, nothing was the midst of our Faith and Light community, he is same. They all felt a boundless joy and security also present and in what a way! May this Spirit and now, without fear, they left their safe place push us to give more and to bear witness to to go out into the whole world to bear witness what we experience. God wants the best for us, as Jesus had asked them to do. It seems that the women and men of today. the gift of the Spirit went hand in hand with the gift of a mission. The gift of the Spirit is not for oneself, but for giving oneself more to others, for announcing, for going to find other people…

But what about us?

We are like the disciples: gripped by fears, ideas, prejudices… What are we afraid of? We are looking for absolute certainties, eternal truths, but we almost never find them the way we want to and thus the ground on which we walk trembles, we fall into doubt and we do not feel safe…

But the Spirit, who is pure Love, Strength and Joy, knows us well and knows what each one of us needs. We receive this gift personally, each person in a different way. Sometimes as a jolt, sometimes a murmur like a breeze, as a caress… through a song, a word, a gesture, a life event. When we let God enter our lives, we

Message from Pope Francis

Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. (Col 3, 14-15)

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the international movement “Faith and Light”, Pope Francis sends his cordial and paternal greetings, expressing his profound joy at the generous activity that you are doing in support of people with intellectual disabilities, their families and their friends.

The Holy Father hopes that this important anniversary will generate ever more renewed attention to this laudable activity and will be the opportunity for an ever more generous commitment of love for life and for those who are experiencing situations of great difficulty.

The Holy Father, on the occasion of the holy celebrations of Easter, invokes abundant gifts from heaven for all those who take part in the celebrations of this event. May it be an opportunity for graces and genuine evangelical testimony.

The Holy Father wholeheartedly gives his apostolic blessing to all community members and their families as well as the entire movement.

From the Vatican, 30 March 2021 Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State for his Holiness

International news

I am happy to announce that DIDIER OVAZZA (from France) has said yes to replace DOMINIQUE PFEFFER in his role of Vice-International coordinator to accompany the same provinces (France North", "France Sparkling East", "Ile de France West", "Paris et le Levant", "Belgium") I am very grateful for the work made by the Nomination Committee for their valuable inputs!

Joined in Jesus.

Raul Izquierdo International coordinator

Hoda Elturk President

FIRST OF ALL, WELCOME DIDIER TO THE INTERNATIONAL COORDINATING TEAM AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR YES TO SERVING ON THIS TEAM! CAN YOU TELL US, IN A FEW WORDS, WHO YOU ARE, WHAT YOU DO AND YOUR JOURNEY TO FAITH AND LIGHT?

Just 67 years old, I am father to Romain (38 years old) and Marine (34 years old) and grandfather to Tessa-Joy (5 years old) and Maïcon (3 ½ years old). I have lived for forty years in Osny in the new town of Cergy-Pontoise, 40 km from Paris. It is very socially and culturally diverse, which is very enriching.

After being an engineer involved in the construction of nuclear power plant simulators, then a quality engineer, I retired 5 years ago and took the opportunity to accompany people in hospital as a chaplain, to take part in the life of my parish and to take the time to walk in the beautiful re- gion of Vexin, not forgetting family life.

Within Faith and Light, I joined the new "Gaudete" (Rejoice) community in Cergy-Pontoise in 2007. My partner became coordinator from 2008 until 2014 when the community was made offi- cial. Since 2009, I have also represented Faith and Light, at Pontoise diocese level, in the family, then health then disability ministry. Since September 2013, I have been Vice Province Coordina- tor of the "Ile de France Ouest" Province.

I am pleased to be joining the international team as a Vice International Coordinator because all our missions in Faith and Light are service missions: we are happy to serve, discover and share in confidence…

Didier

Report in "USA East"

Technology brings us together

"AND LET US CONSIDER HOW TO PROVOKE ONE ANOTHER TO LOVE AND GOOD DEEDS, NOT NEGLECTING TO MEET TOGETHER, AS IS THE HABIT OF SOME, BUT ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER, AND ALL THE MORE AS YOU SEE THE DAY APPROACHING." (HEBREWS 10, 24-25)

rovoking one another members to attend these We have gathered over 30 to love and good virtual meetings. regular attendees, with new P deeds, not neglecting All were welcome! The people logging in every week. to meet together… but en- gatherings were an instant This is more frequent, and couraging one another has hit, quickly gathering a loyal with more people than our been happening in the USA group of regular attendees. monthly meetings. We have East province every Saturday Every Saturday morning at forged relationships with new morning! Joy Fuchs, USA East 10 AM members connect to friends that we might not Provincial Coordinator, de- sing songs of praise, wel- have otherwise met. We look vised a way for communities come new attendees, break forward to seeing each other to meet during the pandemic into breakout sessions to dis- every week and hope one day because she realized that cuss a topic, offer prayers to meet our new found many were feeling isolated and prayer intentions, and friends in person! due to restrictions placed on just enjoy seeing all of our Our topics of discussion in-person gatherings as a re- friends for this one hour of range from remembering a sult of the pandemic. Addi- fellowship in the light of our happy moment in your life, a tionally, it was difficult for Lord. God-given trait you have, many of us to communicate Out of 20 smaller commu- sharing acts of kindness, shar- on a regular basis with our nities, a larger provincial ing favorite foods and recipes, family members and friends. community has formed. doing a craft activity, playing Hence, Joy took action by initi- This larger community con- a Faith and Light trivia game, ating weekly provincial Faith sists of core members, lead- sharing family and communi- and Light ZOOM gatherings in ers, friends, family members, ty stories of our Faith and March 2020. All USA East’s 20 and caretakers of all ages Light groups and preparing a provincial communities were from throughout the eastern scripture mime on a Guideline encouraged to invite their half of the USA and beyond. theme. Everyone participates

with enthusiasm and the level of joy is palpable. The Faith & Light weekend We had attended only two gatherings are real special to meetings as a family before the We have also discovered me because it gives me a pandemic. But who knew what the many talents that exist in chance to praise God and would come? Who knew that our province especially musi- spread some good cheer. My through this isolating chal- cally. We have musicians in heart feels touching and ca- lenge we would discover such Maryland, Georgia, Ohio and ring. I love Faith & Light be- a wonderfull people on- New York who regularly lead cause it gives me pleasure to line!? We needed the connec- us in song and have even in- sing and learn about the tivity more than you’ll ever troduced us to new, original Bible. I like the people be- know. I think of our partici- compositions. We were also cause I feel so happy to be a pants as friends and just blessed on Jan. 2nd by one of part of this team. Thank you thinking about it puts a smile for all that you do for me! on my face. Minnesota leaders, Sara May God be with you and God bless Faith and Light, es- McFee, when she pulled her enjoy life with Him! Alleluia!” pecially this online community. harp strings for us! We have been visited by Samuel Liang Del et Anne Boland Raul, Celine, Hoda, Emilia and Core member Parents Andy, Deanne Riopel, and re- cently we have Sr. Seraphine from Pakistan joining us. What a blessing this technology, Wake up! Don’t go back to sleep! It’s Saturday morning! Throughout bringing us together from all the pandemic, the virtual community came together every Saturday over the world! We pray more morning for months! Overtime we have become a family, even are able to try “ZOOMing” in though many of us have never met in person! The sharing groups have really helped us to get to know each other. From week to for regular interactions with week, you never know who will end up with you. So you wait with our families and friends. joyful anticipation to see who will join you there! It’s sheer delight “Come and see”… and sing, to see their faces pop up on the screen one by one! We are able to and chat, and pray, and play, share more intimately with one another! Each individual shares his/ and share... her precious memories around a photo, or family pet… Little by little more and more is revealed of our sacred stories! Without a doubt, when you’re zoomed into a breakout room, you land on holy ground! And that’s why this confirmed night owl gladly jumps out JOY FUCHS of bed early on Saturday mornings! Provincial coordinator Maureen Ingalls and PAULA KEARNEY Amie Provincial secretary

I have been a co-leader of "St. Patrick community for eight years now. Our group has been meeting faithfully each month during those years and we have a nice supportive community with regular members. When the pandemic hit, our Provincial Leader sent an invitation to all communities in USA East to meet virtually to "sing God's praises!" I invited my community and was pleased that many of our members decided to join. At the end of the meeting, Joy asked, "Should we meet again next Saturday?" A resounding YES was the answer. We have all had the blessing of getting to know each other deeply. Members and families from other communities who I never would have had the opportunity to meet have touched my heart. We have celebrated milestones and have grieved profound losses together. The fact that we have never met in person does not diminish the connection. Watching some of our St. Patrick members rise to the moment and bring cheer and comfort to others who need it has helped me further realize what a true gift Faith & Light is in my life. Teresa Perez "St Patrick" community coordinator

Report in Portugal

Assembly in Luzitana

ear friends from the Luzitana province, D As you know, on 20 and 21 March 2021, the province assembly met to elect the new province team. A huge thank you to the outgoing Luis Teresa C. Catarina Teresa B team for all their work and the big heart that they put into everything they have done. We hope to be able to continue to count on all of you in years to come. The new team elected Luís Vieira as province coordinator, Teresa Marinho as vice province coordinator for the South and Catarina Carvalho and Teresa Brito as vice province coordinators for the North. Since then, the team has increased in size! With great joy, other people have agreed to take up the challenge. The secretary is Francisca Brito, Beatriz Oliveira remains as treasurer and Nuno Antunes has also joined the team. As a family, we are pleased to be able to count on the joy and come across but having trust Since the beginning, it has energy of Ana Isabel Ro- that Jesus, who is asleep at told us that the vocation of drigues and Afonso Silva. the bottom of the boat, is Faith and Light is to form We would like to thank the always accompanying and meeting communities: Each province assembly and the supporting us! And that, meeting includes a time of communities for the trust they through the clouds, there getting together to talk and to have put in us. More im- will always be rays of sun- listen to one another. The es- portantly, we want to ask for shine. sential thing is to form person- your help and enthusiasm in The Faith and Light Char- al relationships within which the years to come so that we ter is the most important we discover the suffering and are able to respond to the document in our movement. the gifts of one another, needs and priorities of our This is where we go “to drink where we learn to know some- province. We must all row this at theN.D. Spring du Luxembourg”, to always re- one else by name” (Charter I).. boat that is our own, recognis- mind ourselves what is cru- In these difficult times ing the issues that we will cial in Faith and Light. where we are not able to hug

or sing and dance together (as you these commands so that reflect on a passage from the we like to do), we cannot for- you may love one anoth- Charter, the source of what get about this meeting of per- er " (Jn 15, 12-17). our movement is. This will be sonal friendship that is the In this sense, the priority a way of breathing deeply, pillar of our communities. We of “Serving the Community”, renewing the energy and con- should try to nourish our per- discussed and chosen by the centrating once more on the sonal relationships, listen to province assembly, will be a essence of Faith and Light. one another and “call each very important part of the The province team will do the person by their name”, even if work of this province team same at all its meetings. You this isn’t face to face. Indeed, and all members of this prov- will find the Charter and all the it is in times of greatest diffi- ince. It is important to sup- documents on our province culty that the treasure of port the communities so that website: friendship that we discover in they are able to flourish, www.feeluzportugal.org/ our community shines bright- grow and make this basic Finally, we wish you all a est. It is in these times that it is unit of Faith and Light: com- holy time of Easter, filled with most necessary. And it is often munities of meeting, at the the love of the Lord who, as he through the community, heart of which are the peo- says in our song: "é-ma-ra-vi- through our friends, that Je- ple with disabilities, sur- lho-so!" Pray for us and for all sus talks to each one of us rounded by their family and the communities in the Prov- (and through each one of us) their friends, particularly ince and across the whole and says: “You are important. young people as stated in world: may we all be a strong You are much loved.” the Charter. We, therefore, sign in the world of the gift of My commandment is this: leave you with the challenge our special friends and our "Love one another as I have of always returning to the communities. loved you. No one has greater essence: every time you love than this, to lay down meet, choose to read and PROVINCIAL TEAM one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants any longer, because the serv- ant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will Luzitana province last, so that the Father will Is made of 16 communities give you whatever you ask him in my name. I am giving

Report in Belgium

A formation session on the theme: “A Treasure to Share"

OUR FRIEND THÉRÈSE (EMMAUS COMMUNITY IN BELGIUM) HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE PART IN A FAITH AND LIGHT FORMATION DAY VIA VIDEO CONFERENCE. SHE WANTS TO SHARE WITH US THE MAIN TOPICS DISCUSSED.

What is a “treasure”? For many, it is a chest filled with gold, jewels, riches and money… And we run to get some of it. But for God, the treasure is what he puts in the hearts of all men and women, their children. What about me? What would my treasure be? For me, it is what I receive from God and others: love, joy, the help that I get. It is about sharing this treasure: giving love, spreading joy, giving service.

And in Faith and Light, what treasure have I discovered? see God. body and allows life. It beats Through the faith of our In our society, we under- stronger and quicker with friends, I have discovered sin- stand the heart to be the physical effort and emotion. cerity, joy, friendship, a face of seat of our emotions. But I But the heart is love, gener- Jesus today. learn that in the Bible, the osity, compassion… We share our joy and pain. heart has a different mean- Opening your heart is al- I see more simplicity, unity in ing: it is the centre of lowing yourself to be made diversity, we are all different. thoughts, the centre of deci- aware, to be loved, to accept And this diversity is a richness. sions. Blessed are the pure in the other one, to love and The person with the disability heart, for they will see God. not judge. Taking things to is a treasure. She shares it Look after your heart, the heart, getting involved, not without expectation: love, joy, sources of life come from it. being indifferent. emotions, words that come It is God who searches our And the treasure? We straight from the heart and hearts and who can make spend our whole life search- shed a new light on faith. them pure. Jesus gives a special place ing for it when it is already in to the little ones. Blessed are For me, what is the heart? us. the pure in heart, for they will It is what beats in the It is the best of ourselves

To open one's heart is to let oneself be loved , to accept the other, to love him

that we can share and the "GRAND LARGE", ISSUE 25 more we share, the more it Experiencing the essentials of Faith and Light grows. Jesus himself is a treas- in the mist of a pandemic ure, he gives himself. A collection of testimonies and experiences around the world

During this time of pan- This booklet is a TREASURE. Take notice when you open demic, practically, what do we and read it, because inside you will find gems of ideas; ex- do to bring forth and spread periences and testimonies of great value. This is a treasure the treasure around us? We born of creativity and courage, which will brighten and en- have to reflect on what it is hance the lives of all us of us who are part of this Faith and possible to do to stay in con- Light family. This TREASURE is given to us as a gift. Commu- tact. And when we can live as nities from many countries have sent in their experiences before again, think about eve- and, after reading them, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude rything we will be able to and emotion… share to live as a community RAÚL IZQUIERDO and shine around us, in our international coordinator meetings, our retreats, our To download on the website: parishes, the whole Church… https://www.faithandlight.org/rubriques/haut/actualites/ I really enjoyed this meet- pandemie-ang.pdf ing experience where each person was able to express themselves, the lessons were rich, intense and I really loved the songs even if the sound wasn’t very good. I realised that other communities have the same problems as us during this period and also in normal times. There is a lack of new people, friends, and the mail isn’t always read. We all have difficulties staying in touch, seeing each other and organising activities at this time. But each person can, depending on their abilities, open their heart and share their treasure.

THÉRÈSE HUBERT

Testimony

The Jesus Kiss

On 21 January, Father Ruben Perez de Ayala, a young 36 year old priest, died in the gas explosion at a building in Madrid. Here is a very touching text written by this young priest.

ix months after being ordained, my bishop sent me to run a parish; I had to re- S place a priest who had been there for over 30 years, so I noticed the coldness of the inhabitants of this place. The task was hard but fruitful and I wouldn’t have had this much success without the help of a little boy named Gabriel… The protagonist of this story.

The second week after I got there, a young couple with their very special (Down Syn- drome) son introduced me to him. They asked me to accept him as an Altar boy. I thought about rejecting him not because he was a child with different abilities but because of all the challenges when I started my ministry at this place. But I couldn’t say no because when I asked him if he wanted to be my Altar boy, he didn’t answer me, but he hugged me very tight. What a beautiful way to convince me…

I made an appointment for the following Sunday. fifteen minutes before the beginning of the Eucharist and he was there punctually with his red cassock and alb that his grand- tion and when we embraced the altar, the little mother had handmade for the occasion. one stayed attached to it; during the homily I

I must add that his presence brought me saw that the parishioners were smiling, which more parishioners because his loved ones made my young priestly heart happy, but then wanted to see him make his Altar boy debut. I I realised they weren’t looking at me but at Ga- had to prepare everything necessary for the briel who was always trying to mimic my Eucharist. I didn’t have a sacristan or a bell moves. In short, these are the details of this ringer so I had to run from one place to an- first mass with my new Altar boy.

other, and it wasn’t until the mass began that When I finished, I told him what to do and I realised Gabriel didn’t know how to help what not to do and among other things I told with mass; because of the rush, I had to say: him the altar can only be kissed by me. I ex- Gabriel, you have to do everything I do, plained to him how the priest joins Christ in okay…? this kiss. He looked at me with his big interro- A child like Gabriel is the most obedient gating eyes without understanding the expla- child in the world, so we started the celebra- nation I gave him… And, without taking in

Father, I did not kiss Him He kissed me

what I told him, he said to me, But I want to kiss him too… I explained to him again why… Finally, I told him I would do it for both of us. He seemed satisfied with this explanation.

However, the following Sunday, when the celebration started and I kissed the altar, I saw that Gabriel laid his cheek on the altar and went back down the steps with a big smile on his face.

I had to tell him to stop doing this. At the end of the mass, I reminded him: Gabriel, I told you I’d kiss Jesus for both of us. He replied, Father, I did not kiss Him, He kissed me…

Very seriously I said to him, Gabriel, don’t play with me… He replied, But it is true, He filled me with kisses!

The way he told me filled me with a holy craving; closing the church after saying good- bye to my parishioners, I approached the altar and laid my cheek on it asking, Lord… kiss me like Gabriel.

This child reminded me that the work is not mine and that winning these people’s hearts could only be through this sweet inti- macy with the only priest, Christ.

Since then, my kiss at the altar is double because always after kissing him I put my cheek to receive His kiss. Thank you Gabriel!

Bringing others closer to the mystery of Sal- vation calls us to live our own encounter. Like me, with my dear Altar server Gabriel, I learned that before embracing the altar of Christ… I must be embraced by Him!

Lord Jesus, make us feel Your kisses every day so that our hearts no longer need love, for You fill everything…

Aleteia, February 2021

Testimony

Being a mum, a dream

Ana Isabel Rodrigues is a member of the “Luzitana” province team and the “Santa Maria” community in Arrifana, in the Porto diocese. Today, Ana Isabel shares her testimony on the birth of her son, Afonso, her faith and her trust.

eing a mother has always been a dream. I discovered I was pregnant on my birth- B day. It was the most beautiful gift that I could receive!

The pregnancy went well and we took all precautions. All the examinations were good and I was looking forward to the birth of Afon- so. I made so many plans for him and for us. On the day of his birth, everything went wrong and what should have been a very happy day Alphonse became a nightmare. The birth went badly and Afonso contracted septicaemia and was taken to the neonatal unit between life and death.

When I was able to see Afonso, the doctor told me I had to prepare myself because he was in a bad way and would probably not survive until morning. The world collapsed. When I was alone, I didn’t stop crying, asking God to give me strength and to save my son. At 9pm, I asked to go to the neonatal unit because I wanted to see my son. I questioned the doctor about what she had said before and she repeat- ed that I had to prepare myself for the worst. I told her that God had the last word, not man and if God had given me a son, he was most certainly not going to take him away. several cerebral lesions. Afonso stayed in the neonatal unit for ten days, still with a negative prognosis. On the All the prognoses were that he would never tenth day, we were able to take him home, leave his bed amongst other issues. I have nev- without anticipating that he was going to have er accepted this prognosis and I offered my other problems. While growing up, Alfonso son to God. The life we planned has not taken demonstrated a lack of muscular strength and the direction chosen. We have had to learn poor cognitive development. At ten months another language. Instead of the sun, we have old, we asked for a second medical opinion: found many clouds, rain and storms. Afonso had a very significant hypotonia and One day, someone told me that if I had

faith, I should place my trust in God because driven him to mass and I told him that we he would give me all that I needed. I did this were going to the home of our friend, Jesus, and although this is a path with many stones, who loved Alfonso a lot. we collect them, then we transform them into victories. One day, a friend gave me a leaflet about Faith and Light. I found it very interesting and Afonso took his first steps at eight and a I decided to make contact. I received an invi- half years old, without the doctors under- tation to take part in a community meeting. standing how since the examinations were We went there and it was love at first sight: similar to those done at his birth. the affection that we found, the joy and the emotion of feeling the same because we all On this path, we have had many friends, experience the same kinds of situation has friends who have stayed. We have lost others been a balm for us. The love that my son re- who were not able to adapt to our new reality. ceives from the coordinators and all the We have found new ones. All these friends friends is something extraordinary, I see him have helped us to chart a new course but I was happy and I am happy. missing something. I would have liked Afonso to have a place in the Church: I have always Most of the time, people think that a child with disabilities should not go to mass nor cat- echism, nor take part in other activities… However, the right place for them is the Church where they feel at home because Jesus always took care of those who needed him the most.

Afonso had the most beautiful first communion I could imagine, surrounded by friends on the day of the Feast of Light. The Faith and Light meetings are still precious times for us, where we learn to be happy in the difference. We are all in the same boat.

These beautiful times give us the strength to carry on walking and fighting because God is with us and on this path, He gives us everything we need.

Make Faith and Light known to all your friends because it is a school of life and love!

Ana Isabel Rodrigues Portugal

Testimony

Fragility without borders I have faith in you. Peace is fragile but that same fragility can also create peace

In 2020, four friends met. Former members of Faith and Light and L’Arche, the person with disabilities led them on a new path, that of Fragilité sans frontiers (Fragility without borders). During three meetings in Beirut, Alexandria and Paris, the experience that fragility can bring down the walls raised by religious and cultural affiliations was confirmed.

n the room at the Notre-Dame du Puits The young friends there - Whala, Alaa, Firaz, convent, where our group met and whose Nayef and still more, testify to the liberation I windows looked out on to the port of Bei- accomplished in their hearts through the pres- rut, after a brief introduction of the twenty ence and trust of their disabled friends, just participants from Syria, Maha, a mum from like at L’Arche or Faith and Light. However, Damascus spoke. On the birth of Karim, her little by little, the sharing gets more sensitive. son, they just said to her: “Problem, your son Firaz explains how in some situations, reli- has a problem, need to accept it, that’s it, ac- gious affiliation is a real disability. As a Sunni, cept”. “Suffering marginalises, I withdrew into he has known rejection and discrimination myself at home with my child and I endured”, when he has been taken to visit Shiite families. she recalls. In Equipe d’Amitié (Friendship At first, he wondered if he would be able to do Team), Maha opened up, her heart was liber- it. He got to know such and such a person ated. Today, she is a leader, she can confirm: I with disabilities and let himself be won over: am no longer just Karim’s mum, I am Maha his prejudices fell away, they became friends. again and I want to pass on my experience”. And Roy Moussali, former leader of Faith and Light and initiator of these Equipes d’Amitié, confirmed: “When you approach the person with disabilities, you are not approaching the

1 1 enemy. The teams become a space for dialogue, Equipes d’Amitié: in Syria, small teams where fami- rest and friendship”. lies with a child with disabilities and volunteers meet, Muslims and Christians, to offer friendship, play, sing, dance… Today fifty teams have been rolled out. The cry to God http://www.sssd-ngo.org In Beirut, as in Alexandria and Paris, when

the sharing exposed the most intimate groups that bring together people with disa- wounds, the helplessness of hearts and lives, bilities and plurality. Do they not need con- the cry to God goes up. Maha begins: “Yes, I nection, formation and support to live their cry to Allah and shout at him: what good are charism of fraternity? With them, we like to you doing by making us suffer?” Then after a say: Peace is fragile but that same fragility long silence: “He sent me friends who alleviate can also create peace”. the suffering; comfort entered my heart.” Raghad adds: "I always talk with Allah and do Marie-Vincente Puiseux, Cœur de maman not understand why so much injustice. Howev- With Roy Moussalli, Equipes d’Amitié er, I know that God Himself is not unjust, he is Odile Skjellaug and Patrick Fontaine, the Merciful One”. L'Arche International The participants make a further step forward in trust and reluctantly admit their fear of the other Christian, the other Muslim. Bachir from Minia in Egypt recognises the dis- trust that was present when he started at the L’Arche workshop. However, gradually, thanks to the people with disabilities, the prejudices fell away and friendships were wo- ven day after day with his Muslim brothers. As Whala said: I do not come because I am Chris- tian but to take care of the other one. Our common humanity is deeper than any of our differences. I have faith in you.”

In France too This is also the testimony of Flore in Paris: for three years, she has been a member of the "Cœur de maman"1 (Mother’s Heart) group that brings together lifelong Parisians, Mali- ans and Algerians, all meeting up to put aside their daily life with their child with disabilities and regain their momentum, she was deeply touched to discover a sister in Kheira, Hatou- ma or Sitan. "Our suffering and joy, our fears and hope as mothers unite us; we do not hesi- tate to pray for one another, not together but each one with her faith. And God hears our cry!”

This is how "Fragilité sans fron- • www.facebook.com/groups/ tières" (Fragilities without borders) was born, fragilitesansfrontieres the desire to network initiatives or isolated • [email protected]

• A film − 20 mn : 1 Cœur de maman: In France, speaking groups where https: //youtu.be/d29UUpzjNS8 mums with a child who is sick or with disabilities can − 5 mn : https://youtu.be/xnEC3kiIDAo meet to exchange and gather strength. About fifty groups meet today. http://coeurdemaman.net

Testimony

What welcome could I offer?

hen my partner announced that we were pregnant for the second time, W we were so happy. Past 40 years old, it is often riskier and despite everything we knew about this, we were not worried. Week after week, the tests kept coming and the risks were gradually revealed. But, at that time, when nothing was yet certain, we believed in our lucky star and that it only happened to other people. Tell me what you are thinking? Do you think we should keep it? This small question, so trivial for 95% of families, was quickly becoming the source of a real war in our couple. I didn’t want to hear about it. I remember I was close-minded to any discussions on the matter and, no, I did not want him. The more my partner’s stomach grew, the more tensions were exacerbated around this threat that was going to happen and destroy what had taken years to build. that still invades me every time that I hug him My partner’s moods no longer mattered to me to me. This little cutie that I had so shied because my veto had not been respected. So, I away from suddenly calmed me and healed threatened to leave, even if inside, I felt una- the wounds that I believed incurable. Like a ble to. deliverance, at his touch, all misgivings disap- Then, in the middle of autumn, he arrived. peared one after the other. The reason for all our arguments was here With a little perspective, I would say that I and, at the beginning, he did not exist. Reeling needed a bit of time to acceptElvira him as he is. from the shock, like after a car accident, I was Yes, it is true, my son has Down Syndrome, devastated. I did nothing for him and when but he is my son and… I love him despite eve- she asked me to deal with him, I retorted, You rything. wanted him so now you take responsibility! Today, I feel so close to him and together, Shortly after, unable to cope with this torrent we do all that we can to give him all his op- of negative emotions, I decided to leave my portunities. Exactly as I would have done for job. The months passed and I sank into a deep another one after all. And every morning depression. I, who brooded in my corner, lost when I get up, yes, my son still has a disability between concern and contempt for my wife, and yet in our hearts nothing has changed. what welcome could I offer to this child with Because, as before, we are together and, as such a perception of reality? This destiny that before, we love each other and we continue on I did not choose and yet… our path. Six months passed and then there was this look, this cheerful smile, this small face so fa- Philippe miliar and finally this sensation so intense Dad of Pierre, 14 months

Testimony

Kathleen Jopp

received the sad message that Kathleen Jopp has died on 11/03/2021. Many of us will I remember her at the international meetings as the charming singing lady in the traditio- nal dress from Tyrol in Austria. Originally Kathleen came from England, but her husband came from Austria, so she came to live in Tyrol. Together they had three children, of whom the youngest son Reinhold was mentally handicapped. When Reinhold grew older, she was looking for a good school, which she couldn't find in Tyrol at that moment. Also her mother in England got ill, so she decided in 1984 to go back to England, together with Reinhold. There, at the Anglican Parish of St. Peter's Church in Leeds, she came in contact with a Faith and Light community, guided by Father Bob Brooke. She and Rein- hold were immediately touched by the frien- dliness of all the members . After her Mum died, they both returned to Tyrol, but they could not forget this beautiful experience of Faith and Light. With the famous Tyrolian bishop Reinhold Stecher she talked about her dream to start Faith and Light in Innsbruck. So they invited Bob Brooke to come to Innsbruck and help them to start a Faith and Light community recognized Faith and Light communities in there. Finally they started a community in Tyrol. 1988, at the Parish of "All Saints". The commu- Unfortunately today, there is no communi- nity was ecumenical from the very beginning. ty left in Tyrol. Kathleen also helped establish For more than 25 years she was the coordi- the first L'Arche community in Tyrol. For ma- nator of the community. In addition to the ny years her son Reinhold has been living monthly meetings, the group also went several there. times together on holidays: to Graz, Klagen- I ask you all to remember her in furt, England and Taizé in France. your prayers, for her and for her son Reinhold Kathleen meant a lot for Faith and Light in and all her other family members. Innsbruck, and also for Faith and Light in I am quite sure: Kathleen is now singing in Tyrol. the angel choir!

Since 1988, and many times thanks to her, Hetty Gommans there have been several recognized and un- Former provincial coordinator "Heart of Europe"

Testimony A musical comedy

To celebrate the 50th anniversary, Norway is preparing a groundkreak event unseen in the history of Faith and Light: a musical comedy and a concert with intellectually disabled musicians including many from Faith and Light.

ore Thomassen is a famous artist in Norway But closer to us, on 15 June, the community in and he is a member of the "Lillesand" com- Kongsvinger approached the town council about T munity in the North East of the country. He financially supporting a concert with Tore. The writes songs that he puts to music. He has created town council agreed. It is fantastic. It is the first of many of them for Faith and Light and we use them many concerts with Tore, I think. He plays various a lot in our communities. We asked him if he could guitars and a ukulele, drums and other instru- th write a musical comedy for the 50 anniversary, ments. We all like him, we also like the way in placing the emphasis on the story of the birth of which he communicates with the public. Tore will Faith and Light in Norway. be accompanied by musicians from "Fargebandet", an orchestra that brings together people with an That is what he did. But Coronavirus came and intellectual disability. we had to slow down due to the lockdown. Every- thing should be ready for 15 October, the date of Birgitt Aarrestad the performance.

"Fargebandet"

Tore

Testimony The joy of forgiveness

o prepare for the Easter celebration, the T community had prepared a penitential celebration. To hold our attention, we had in front of us a depiction of the return of the prodigal son by Rembrandt. While I was receiv- ing people one after the other in an adjoining room, the community was preparing for this step by praying and singing or by keeping silent. At that time we had Hélène in our community, who was almost completely deaf. She was very excited when she came to Faith and Light meetings and struggled to stay still. What is more, because she was deaf, she could not hear herself but everyone else heard her! At table she had trouble staying seated and we had some concerns about this celebration. The first miracle was that for the fairly long time that the celebration lasted, Hélène could not be heard at all... Then, at one point, she got up and came over to me. I was wondering what she was going to say to me and what I was going to say to her, as she only expressed herself through cries and could not hear anything. She came towards me in her halting way and posed in the position of the prodigal son, the position that she had seen on the painting. I simply had to pose in the position of the father welcoming his child and then we parted from On 14 February 2021, St Cyril’s Day, one another without uttering a word. At that Brother Cyril departed from us… moment I felt the same joy that the Father could have felt when he welcomed his child Sadness, joy and thanksgiving dwell in us. who has returned to him, and the joy of for- Sadness at seeing the passing of a friend, giveness given and received: it is not words Cyril, with whom we shared so many years in Faith and Light. Joy at knowing he has that matter, but the position of the body and joined our Father. Joy at knowing that he is the heart. "But God chose what is foolish in the now in the Light and that his presence will world to shame the wise, God chose what is be different but still as benevolent. And weak in the world to shame the strong." thanksgiving for all that Cyril brought to us.

BROTHER CYRIL DE RAIMOND

Testimony Hello “little lights”

uring this difficult and trying time for everyone, we received this “Hello” tele- D phone message from the Foyer Général Cornet (Nivelles). The residents of the home are thinking of all their friends in the community: all waiting with restrained impatience for our meetings that they are missing. This expression “little lights” isn’t new in our community: it was Marilou who, I believe, used it first some years ago. This was probably a small language summary: to talk about members of our Faith and Light communities, she created this pretty short form “the little lights” … In this time when we are stuck at home, we are slightly forced to reflect and why not, to meditate. And I let my head wander like a haunting refrain. Who controls the wind? The Spirit blows above us, is it to brutally invade us like a storm or gently fill us slowly? Who will say? Who will explain? No doubt, these little lights came with a gentle slowness, like a walk at night; our eyes get used to the darkness, we see the twinkling stars appear that are born deep in the night sky. They are there, these small lights, precious guides to the direction to take, “little lights”. Then, a bit further, in the middle of the rolling countryside, in the shadows of the vil- lage, a few lit windows to better welcome us. Again “little lights”. Finally, a few candles lit in living presence in the nave of the church under a blue stained glass window to better gather us. Again, “little just “presence”, “gentleness”, “welcome”, lights”. “trust” and “patience”. What strikes my spirit in this dreamy re- Thank you to our “little lights” for be- flection is the modest character of these little ing there. lights: they do not claim to be lighthouses, projectors, spotlights or even neon lights, each Emmaüs community, Belgium prouder than the other of their light. They are "Grand Large", Issue 25

For our reflection

12 April 1971 – 12 April 2021 Faith and Light is 50!

only ask for a curing of hearts so that we fully recognise them in their unique beauty and we help them to find their place in the Church and society” (Never again alone”). But these misgivings were not the same as those of the great priests and scribes: “Let the Messiah, the King of Israel, come down from the cross now, so that we may see and believe” (Mk 15, 32). They had not understood that it was precise- ly because he was the Messiah that he was on the cross. So, if people with disabilities are accepted in the sanctuaries, in the parishes, it is a tolerance he organised pilgrimage to Lourdes in 1971 granted to them, taking care that they do not was, at the start, a reaction to what Gér- make too much noise, that they do not disrupt ard and Camille Proffit, the parents of T the beautiful liturgies. Loïc and Thaddée, had experienced. Going to Therefore, there are still a few more steps to Lourdes to present their severely disabled chil- be climbed to the top of the Mount of Transfig- dren to Mary, they heard the crowd in the sanc- uration so that we hear God telling us once tuary saying: “when you have children like that, more: This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I stay at home!” (“Never again alone”). This am well please; listen to him!” (Mt 17, 5). crowd demanded that they remain shut away at Joy is something acquired, it is up to us to home and follow the safety precautions scrupu- listen to disabled people, they really do have lously; you never know, perhaps these children things to say to us, to teach us. For example, were the carriers of a dangerous and contagious when in Lourdes on Good Friday, they began to virus. sing Alleluias throughout Lourdes, there were This same crowd had already demanded that some unkind looks… Yet the message is clear: Pilate “Crucify him, crucify him!” when Julie, after crying during the recital of the Gérard and Camille returned to Lourdes at Passion, smiled after the announcement of the Easter 1971 with a very different crowd. There death of Jesus and said: “that’s it, now he can were 12000, including 4000 with an intellectual rise again!”, this means that she has understood disability, from 15 countries. Everyone heard that in order to be resurrected, we must first this call from God at the baptism of Jesus: “You die… whilst we would like to be resurrected are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well without dying! We accept the joy of the Resur- pleased” (Mk 1,11). This crowd was a joyful rection but not the suffering of the Passion. crowd, very joyful even. The pilgrims, after re- Fifty years after our foundation, there is still ceiving this baptism in Lourdes, were witnesses work to be done to announce the good news of to this joy to the ends of the Earth. Jesus, this joyful news that can only be under- But then it was finished, the intellectually stood with a simple heart. disabled people had won their right to enter the sanctuaries in Lourdes! Did Faith and Light still Ghislain du Chéné have a meaning? A mission? Yes, of course, this was only the first step, quite a small step. It was still necessary to respond to those who believed that the disabled pilgrims would return disap- 1 "Never again alone, the Faith and Light adventure", pointed at not being cured, to which Marie- Marie-Hélène Mathieu, available from https:// Hélène Mathieu had responded: “But we will www.westbowpress.com/BookStore/

International agenda

• 6 June: "Terra et Mare" Province Council meeting (Spain East), video conference • 12 June: “Seas and Volcanoes” Province formation session (Italy South), video conference • 26 June: "Terra et Mare" Province assembly, video conference • 26 June: “Heart of the Americas and Caribbean” (Honduras, Nicaragua, Dominican Rep.) province retreat, video conference • 28 June: Retreat for the Norwegian communities, Lia gård • 9-11 July: virtual pilgrimage for the 50th anniversary of Faith and Light for the USA and Canada provinces. • 10 July: "Jesus, Light of the Andes” (Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru) province formation session, video conference • 17-18 July: holiday camp for the communities from Rodrigues, Konokono • 18-24 July: holiday camp for the Slovenian communities, Kančevci • 23-25 July: celebration of the thirtieth anniversary of the birth of Faith and Light in Lithuania, Shrine of Šiluva • 25-31 July: holiday camp for the Slovenian communities, Pohorje • 1-7 August: holiday camp for the Slovenian communities, Soča • 17 August: virtual workshop about Faith and Light for the pastors and deacons from the Uppsala diocese, Sweden • 1-3 September: formation session for the Norwegian communities, Stenbeck Misjonssenter • 11 September: Faith and Light 50th anniversary pilgrimage, Brestanica, Slovenia • 17-19 September: UK province pilgrimage, Walsingham

To make you known A short history of Faith and to the press in your country Light as a cartoon

A press pack has been produced by France. We have translated it into English and Span- ish. It has 18 pages of information and expla- nations. Contents: − Faith and Light in a nutshell − The mission of Faith and Light, who we are − Short history of Faith and Light − Faith and Light across the world (countries and number of communities) − Recognition from the Church (extracts from various messages received since 1971) th − 50 anniversary: a common theme New edition, from 1971 to 2021 − Charter of the Jubilee. and new illustrations. Along with this pack, a press release produced by the Board of Directors. Available from the Faith and Light site

Available from the Faith and Light site www.foietlumiere.org/ www.foietlumiere.org/

❖ Family album ❖

Alain Saint-Macary God. He brought the light of Reverend Barbara Shisler the Gospel to the communities in Honduras and central Sadly, I wish to inform you America for many years. that Reverend Barbara Shisler With his simplicity and his passed away on 8 May, she joy, he shared his life with the was 84 years old. poorest and most fragile. Barbara was ordained in 1997 We are united in prayer with as a pastor in the Mennonite his friends and family. Church. 35 years ago, she founded the community in Indian Creek. She also found- Ghislaine Jarry ed the Circle of Hope community in Perkasie, Pennsylvania. Barbara was a poet and a writ- er. She published many arti- cles and poems as well as several books: two poetry anthol- ogies and books including one Alain left us on 15 February. on the spiritual life of disabled He was dedicated to l'Arche people. for many years. He was also She was deeply loved by her the backbone of the Faith and husband, her three children, Light international pilgrimage four grandchildren and two in 1981. We were able to ap- great-grandchildren as well as preciate his organisational and her two beloved dogs. managerial qualities. In thanksgiving for his life, we It is with much sadness that I Pastor Pam Landis entrust him to the tenderness am informing you of the Vice Provincial Coordinator of Jesus. passing of Mrs Ghislaine Jar- "USA East" ry, on 7 May… This great lady was a pioneer of Faith and Roberto Grimaldi Light in Canada East; she was part of the Brebis de St- Clément (St Clement’s Sheep) community for many years. On behalf of the members of the Province Team, I offer my deepest condolences to her children, members of her community and the "les Pap- illons bleus" (Blue butterflies) choir that she especially loved! Rest in peace my beautiful Gisou, you really earned

your paradise.

Deceased in Jesus, Father Rob- Suzanne Belisle erto has gone to the glory of Provincial Secretary

❖ Family album ❖

New Coordinators The Ascension logo A watercolour from Ukraine

Francis and Claire Delor This logo was produced by Paula Chaparas Kearney for the feast of the Ascension. Paula is leader of the St Pat- rick community, Olney, USA East.

This watercolour was created in Ukraine to present Faith and Light on its Facebook Francis and Claire are the new page. coordinators of the "France entre deux Mers" province. The logo from Mexico They succeed Michel and Sab- ine Arduino who have reached the end of their second man- date.

Vincent Vilain is the new treas- Melanie’s logo urer. He succeeds Nicole Pru- dhomme.

Marie-Laure Wateau From Belgium

The new coordinator for the My granddaughter Melanie "France Rhone Azur" province. drew this Faith and Light … And from Cyprus She succeeds Joël Arslanian. symbol. She is 5 years old. May God bless you all. Welcome to the new coordinators and thank you to the for- Inge Switon-Rønnow, mer ones for all the work ac- Leader of the "Vesterbro" complished! community in Denmark

Marie-Hélène's letter

THE STRENGTH OF THE LOOK

With families, we often talk about the look some visitors. He states: "Mouth, she laughs of others. "My daughter has deep emotional but eyes not kind.” “For out of the heart, said anxiety that the doctors have never cured. Jesus, come evil intentions, murder, adultery, She eats constantly. She weighs more than fornication, theft, false witness, slander” (Mt 100 kilos. She no longer dares to go out. 15, 19). And it is also from the heart of man Wherever she goes, she only notices mocking that goodness and peace are born. or pity. She cannot bear it. It is a vicious cir- "It is only with the heart that one can see" cle. Alone and hurt, she ‘binges’ even more” said Saint-Exupéry, and he draws a box in And again: "I am looking for a community which those who see beyond appearances, that welcomes me, wrecked by the life I have really know there is a sheep. The look, in this led, drugs, all sorts of adventures… I don’t inner sense, is the discovery of the silent want to go back to my parents. The last time needs of the heart beyond the disgraced face that I found myself facing my father, he re- or the painful heart. It is the simple and obvi- ceived me with such anger that I fled, perhaps ous beginnings of a communion. As the sun forever.” in spring makes the snow melt, the warmth of There is also the look of those who do not our heart through our look can make fears, see, concerned as they are with their own anxieties, the feeling of being different and of business. The evil rich man perhaps did not being rejected melt away. notice that Lazarus was at the door of his To change our look, it is necessary to first home, eating dog food. of all change our heart. But who can change The importance of the look: how the prob- their heart through their own strength? Only lems of so many people with disabilities He who created it can transform it into a heart would fade away if all the looks that touch similar to his own, He whose heart is so much them were of welcome and friendship. One more humane than our own. This is his great- father wrote to us: "We go to the 10am mass est desire since our birth, since he dwells in because we usually meet an old gentleman us through the baptism and each time we re- there who does not know us but whose look is ceive him in the communion. He is simply full of gentleness and peace in front of our waiting for our yes. "I will remove from your Christian who has dwarfism. From his smile, body the heart of stone and give you a heart we get a bit of comfort and hope." of flesh" (Ez. 36, 26), a heart of gentleness Yes, our look is a powerful and mysterious and humility. Come and change my look into force. We give life or we cause death accord- a look that gives life. ing to the way in which we look at others. But we must not just re-educate our look, it is only a reflection of our heart. Dominique knows this all too well; he is never deceived by the technical and mechanical smile of Dieu m'aime comme je suis, St Paul Editions

Come Spirit, Father of the poor come, giver of gifts come, light of hearts