2021 ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

To be is not a privilege for the few. But a vocation for everyone - Francis CONTENTS

STORIES Teaching as a Vocation Frank Chiment ...... p4 Our Aussie Bride of Christ Debbie Cramsie ...... p8 The Vocation to everyday heroism in the midst of Family Life Steve Buhagiar...... p12 World Day of Grandparents & the Elderly RELIGIOUS LIFE Marilyn Rodrigues ...... p16 The Year on Family Love News Service...... p18

ORGANISATIONS Divine Word Missionaries...... p5 Marist Brothers Province of ...... p6 Catholic Institute of Sydney...... p6 Franciscan ...... p7 Dominican Sisters of St Cecilia...... p7 Vocation Centre...... p10 Missonaries of the Sacred Heart...... p14 PARENTING

TEACHING FAMILY

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 Publisher: The Catholic Weekly, 22 August 2021 Editorial contributors: Frank Chiment, Marilyn Rodrigues, Debbie Cramsie, Steven Buhagiar Design: Digital and Design Team | Cover image: Patrick J Lee Sales and Marketing: Steve Richards | www.catholicweekly.com.au

2 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 Women sensing the call to religious life have a range of options they may not be aware of. CW With more than 50 congregations for women offering everything from a traditional monastic way of life to being more involved in the apostolic work of their communities, there is plenty of choice available right here in our backyard in Australia. FULL STORY www.catholicweekly.com.au PHOTO: Sr Mary Catherine, Dominican and Sr Mary Rose Discalced Carmelite A real Sister Act

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 3 Teaching as a Vocation Teachers play a unique role in the lives of our youth. This has made me reflect upon the notion of“Teaching as a Vocation” within a context.

By Frank Chiment

n recent times, there has much highlighted in the media and professional circles about the shortage of teachers in NSW and beyond. This made me Iponder upon the special and unique role teachers play in the lives of our youth. In particular, it made me re- flect upon the notion of “Teaching as a Vocation” within a Catholic school context. In my experience, people have entered into the teaching profes- sion primarily because they wish to make a real and deep difference in the lives of our youth. Providing a sense of awakening and nurtur- ing of student learning, character development and faith formation is an altruistic element that is cer- tainly evident in the teaching pro- fession at large. Interestingly, these motives for entering the profes- sion are becoming even more pro- nounced with generations Y (27-41) and Z (12-26). Teaching may be viewed as a calling. It is more than being an ex- pert teacher in a learning space at school. In a Catholic school context, teachers are intrinsically connect- ed with their students as disciples. From a holistic education view- point, teachers intertwine Catholic values in everything they undertake on campus – in and out of the class- room. Teachers strive to work in part- Frank Chiment, left with teacher Jim Olson, Frank's Homeroom teacher in year 12. PHOTO: SUPPLIED nership with students and families in order for graduates to leave the school gates as the best version of my Year 12 Homeroom and English excites me to welcome colleagues The ministry of Catholic school themselves and be who God is call- Teacher, Mr. Olsen. I remember him who are new to the teaching pro- teaching is truly special and life-giv- ing them to be. Some ways that this to be a caring, nurturing, funny and fession. Many arrive fresh out of ing. Teachers understand and value is achieved by teachers is by their intellectual Catholic man. A man university and some from a career their partnership with parents and great sense of generosity by attend- who connected well with me and change. New colleagues commence carer’s in nurturing the education of ing retreats, reflection days and knew what levers to use in order to with a sense of energy, enthusiasm, the heart and mind of students. As faith in action (service learning) get the best out of me as I graduat- joy and wish to be in a place where such, our Catholic schools remain projects. A critical element is also to ed from school. Recently, I was priv- the Beatitudes are not only taught, authentic places of learning and genuinely know their students and ileged to meet up with Mr. Olsen at but actively lived. Above all else – partner with them on their school a Catholic school gathering. This they generally have a strong desire formation, where our teachers are journey. was a real honour for me and my to make difference to their kids, real beacons of hope and evangeli- I reflect upon my own experience conversation with him was most even if they have not met them yet. sation. as a school student at a local Catho- memorable. Mr Olsen’s approach to Intrinsically, they get the fact that lic secondary school and I’m most holistic teaching contributed much they will need to not only be a good Frank Chiment is the Principal grateful for the many teachers who to who I am today. teacher, but also be the face of God Leader at Patrician Brothers’ nurtured me. In particular, I think of As a leader in a Catholic school, it to our kids too. College, Blacktown

4 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 Young missionaries give thanks for their vocation

Marius Razafimandimby, Hai Nguyen, Edward Okletey Teye, Nicholas Duc, and Francois D'Assise An- drianihantana took their final vows as Divine Word Missionaries and were ordained to the Diaconate earlier this year. PHOTO: SUPPLIED The Divine Word Missionaries AUS I am very grateful to God for calling Province had cause for great celebra- me and many young people to com- tion earlier this year when five young mit themselves to proclaim his love, in confreres from three different coun- their very own way, to all. My journey tries made their Final Profession of has just started in the Society and I be- Vows and were ordained to the Diaco- lieve the best is yet to come.” nate. For Nicholas, the taking of final vows The young men making their com- and ordination to the Diaconate was a mitment in were Nicholas cause of great joy. Duc, Marius Razafimandimby, Fran- “I am experiencing the coming down cois D'Assise Andrianihantana, Ed- of the Holy Spirit as Jesus gave the ward Okletey Teye, and Hai Nguyen. Spirit to his disciples and sent them They are from , and to bear witness to the Good News. Per- Vietnam. haps in the future, there will be many Francois said the two days of cele- difficulties and challenges. But in God’s bration were “remarkable and joyful” hand, with the grace of God and the days in his vocational journey. support of my parents, brothers and “Doing God’s mission delights my sisters and friends, I hope that I will soul, following the footsteps of Christ become a fruitful missionary to build and Arnold Janssen our Founder glad- the Kingdom of the Lord,” he said. dens my heart and becoming a perpet- And Hai, drew on the beautiful ual member of the SVD gives me joy. I of Mary, the , for his am excited to embrace my future and reflection. my mission,” he said. “As Mother Mary praises God for amazing blessings and favours. everyone who helped me to come this Marius said that as a young man what God has done for her; I also feel “Looking back to where I started far,” he said. flooded with today’s culture of enter- that taking Final Vows and the Diaco- from and where the Lord has brought The young missionaries have re- tainment, Facebook, Whatsapp, You- nate are great gifts I have received. I me now, I say, it is just by God’s grace. ceived their first assignments, which Tube and Netflix, he realised he also praise and thanks God for the two pre- Trusting in God’s providence, I kept they hope to be able to take up as needed a purpose in his life. cious gifts. I desire to be an instrument my focus on what God can do for me international borders open: Edward “For me, what I want is to do some- of God for doing God’s will, not for my in Christ Jesus. So, having been bless- - Region; Hai - ; thing that makes my life more mean- own intention.” ed to take my final vows and instituted Francois - Australia; Marius - Neth- ingful, in which I do something with Finally, Edward said his religious as a Transitional , my song is of erlands-Belgium; Duc - USA Chicago consequences that matter to others. journey has been a long wait for God’s gratitude to God, my formators and Province.

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 5 Marist Brothers Province of Australia

titled, “Meaning & Mission,” “Community & Relationships,” and “Faith & Spirituality,” all of which focus on the contextual understanding of the key ele- ments of Marist life in Austral- ia. The second, “Characteristics of Marist Life,” provide reflec- tive resources on the nature of mission, spirituality, and com- munity for the modern-day On Wednesday, 4 August, as Marist . The third series part of marking National Vo- “Talking Heads” involves the cations Awareness Week, the Marist Brothers in Australia Marist Brothers Province of responding to interesting, pro- Australia launched its new vocative, and challenging ques- Vocations website, located at tions about the life of a Marist http://www.maristvocations. Brother in Australia today. com.au. This new website is Finally, information about the dedicated to providing material ministries that Marist Broth- and resources about the life and ers founded, and continue to mission of the Marist Brothers be associated with through the in a contemporary context, as Marist Association of St Marcel- well as materials that can as- lin Champagnat, are also acces- Marist Brothers celebrate prayer together (Left to right: Brs Michael Green, Greg McDonald, Neville Solomon, sist a person discerning life as sible on the new website. Michael Sexton, Hubert Williams). a Marist Brother. The website is part of the one’s vocation and - deepen their relationship with tory of our Founder, St Marcel- SOCIAL CONTACTS Marist Brothers’ faithfulness ship to Jesus Christ, including God, and to give full expres- lin Champagnat, and informa- to providing resources and av- life as a religious brother, re- sion to their vocation as a child tion on our discernment and @fmsbrothers enues for young people to con- mains an important priority of and co-heir of God. The website formation stages. The website @MaristVocations tinue to explore the possibility the Marist Brothers. Providing provides introductory informa- also presents resources for ed- of a formal religious commit- healthy and substantive pro- tion about the Marist Brothers ucation and formation settings, For more information contact: ment in the . cesses of discernment is also in Australia, including insights including three distinctive film Br James Hodge Promoting and advocating an important part of support- into the life and spirituality of series. The first series, “Being e | [email protected] diverse expressions of living ing all people who continue to the Marist Brothers, a brief his- Marist” contain three films, Province Vocations Coordinator

Religious literacy for Catholic Institute of Sydney today's world Australia’s Ecclesiastical Faculty for Theology and Ministry

siastical awards approved by the (the Congregation for Catholic Education in ); and since 1982 it has offered civilly accredited awards as a member in- stitution of the Sydney College of Divinity. The ecclesiastical awards offered by the Institute include the five-year STB (Bacca- laureate of Sacred Theology), the STL (Li- centiate in Sacred Theology), and the STD JOIN THOSE CHOOSING (Doctorate in Sacred Theology). Those looking to deepen their faith or TO STUDY THEOLOGY to expand their theological literacy have A course in Theology at the Catholic Institute The most fundamental vocation is the one a number of study options. They may that comes with . Living the bap- choose a short course at graduate certifi- of Sydney will allow you to delve deeply tismal vocation today comes with increas- cate level or a degree course. They can also into the rich Catholic philosophical and ing challenges. Society does not foster or choose to specialise by choosing course theological tradition and equip support Christian faith in the way it did in units in biblical studies, theology, philos- you to live your vocation in previous generations. ophy, church history or pastoral theology. today’s world. All the baptised need support in living CIS is the place of study for those with their faith. Many people are looking for a vocation to priesthood who are at a di- ways to deepen their faith and expand ocesan seminary or in a religious order. CATHOLIC INSTITUTE their religious and theological literacy. A Those with a vocation to the permanent OF SYDNEY theological education has the potential diaconate also study there. Other students 99 Albert Road, come from all walks of life and profes- to give them confidence about what they Strathfield NSW 2135 believe and how to speak about it. It gives sions. Some are looking for professional them confidence in the face of challenges qualifications, others are primarily taking For more information contact us: t: 9752 9500 to the faith. The Catholic Institute of Syd- the course for personal enrichment. e: [email protected] ney (CIS) has been involved in theological CIS cares for the vocation of all the bap- or visit our website www.cis.catholic.edu.au education for around 130 years, first at St tised. Students study in a supportive envi- ronment where faith is nurtured and the- Patrick’s College, Manly and since 1995 at CIS is a member institution of the Sydney College of Divinity (CRICOS 02948J) Strathfield. Since 1954 it has offered eccle- ological literacy is learnt alongside others.

6 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 Franciscan Friars Order of Friars Minor ruined church buildings in his hometown of Assisi. It was an encounter with a leper, a FRANCISCAN FRIARS person excluded from society, that helped Order of Friars Minor him understand that he was called to a life of community building: building up the The Franciscan Friars were founded by St Francis of community of God, the Church. Assisi to preach the Gospel through humble service to St Francis understood the Church to be all. Each are called to Rebuild God’s Church! a community of love and mercy. He saw We live together as a brotherhood. Each is called to the celebration of the Eucharist as a trans- find and use their God given gifts: some work in forming gift of God’s self in which people parishes, others as artists, lawyers, nurses, spiritual are invited to part of Christ’s mission to transform the whole world into the King- directors, missionaries, ecologists, teachers and dom of God. university chaplains. We care for the shrines of the Holy Friar Joe’s vocation journey started with Land and the “lepers” of today’s world. Friar Joe McKay a beautiful morning. He looked out the All are brothers, some are priests. Following Christ’s Footsteps window and thanked God for the beauty of the view and asked in return “God, what Join our Zoom meeting (www.zoom.com) to hear about What drew Friar Joe McKay to the Francis- can I give in return?” That night and in the the Rule and Life of the Franciscan Friars in Australia can Friars was their “down to earth” ap- following weeks came to realised that he and ask any questions you may have about religious life. proach to living the Gospel. The friars he took this question seriously. And he is still met seriously believe that Jesus was talk- asking it! ONLINE VOCATION CHATS ing about a life to be lived. Inspired by the Inspired by St Francis of Assisi, Friar Joe 7:30pm Thursday 26th Aug example of Francis of Assisi each fri- has followed the footsteps of Christ. This 7:30pm Thursday 2nd Sept ar, in their own way, looked to follow in the has led him from the housing commission footsteps of Jesus. suburbs of Campbelltown; to , Meeting ID: 883 73608314 The Franciscan Friars are formally called Auckland, Townville & Jerusalem; to serv- the Order of Friars Minor. St Francis of Assi- ing with and homeless people; The Rule and life of the Friars Minor is this, to observe the si wanted his brothers (Friar) to be servants working in parishes, retreat houses and Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ, by living in obedience, (Minors) of God and the people around schools. He has felt supported and inspired without anything of one's own, and in chastity. them. At the start of his vocation story St by his brother Franciscan Friars and the Francis of Assisi heard a call to by God to broader Franciscan family, both here and “Go, Rebuild my home!” Initially Francis overseas, to follow Christ’s mission to build Vocation Director: vocations@.org.au thought that this was a call to rebuild the the Kingdom of God. www.franciscans.org.au

DOMINICAN To contemplate and to give SISTERS OF to others the fruits of our ST CECILIA contemplation

Founded in Nashville, TN in 1860 Established in the Archdiocese of Sydney in 2007 and the Archdiocese of Melbourne in 2018 To learn more, visit nashvilledominican.org, find us on facebook @dominicansistersaustralia, or contact the sisters at [email protected] or [email protected]

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 7 Our Aussie Bride of Christ

Former parishioner of Holy Name of Mary , Hunters Hill, professed her Final Vows along with five others as Dominican Sisters of St Cecilia, in Nashville, Tennessee.

By Debbie Cramsie

ariam Assaf O.P., was also a very joyful day because It was an important lesson for a ders open plan to continue their says she has “the due to COVID-19 our community girl who loves “spending time with twice-yearly pilgrimage. best spouse ever”. had not been able to come togeth- family, friends, drinking caffeine, “The Sisters are entitled to six The former pa- er in a very long time! beer, basketball, starry night skies, visits a year but we are not allowed rishioner of Holy “I very much felt the support trying to sing, languages and cud- to spend any more than two con- MName of Mary Parish, Hunters Hill, and of our sisters, my dling chubby baby nieces”. secutive days together so being so has just professed Final Vows along family and friends who were lives- She knew she was being called far away does make it very hard,” with five others as Dominican Sis- treaming in Australia, Lebanon to religious life and that joining the proud mum Nehmat said. ters of St Cecilia, in Nashville, Ten- and , and the prayers of Dominican Sisters would not be “It’s a long way for us to go just nessee. everyone in heaven!” The 27-year- easy for her large family, so once for two days but it’s so worth it, just She represents the increasingly old attended Tangara School for she started to really discern, she so she knows we are always here. international flavour of the com- Girls in Cherrybrook before com- only shared it with a few select “If it’s this hard for us being munity of more than 300 Sisters pleting a Bachelor of Commerce at people. apart, we can only imagine how worldwide, including Australia, Macquarie University with majors She felt the expectation of get- hard it is for her being over there after being invited to help with the in human resources and French. ting married and having children, without us and we need to put our 2008 World Youth Day in Sydney. She first encountered the Nash- however could not have dreamed own feelings aside and support For the girl from Gladesville, the ville Dominicans when they visit- her decision could give her such her, although I must be honest we day represented the “deep joy that ed her high school and then again freedom. always have a return ticket for her comes with doing God’s will daily”. at Theology on Tap events, but it And while they struggled initial- just in case which makes her upset Coming from a close Lebanese wasn’t until she attended a “ ly with “letting go of their daugh- but deep down we know she won’t family, her vows were recited in Run” for young women consider- ter”, parents George and Nehmat use it. English first and then in Arabic. ing religious life that her vocation slowly felt great joy for the third of “We all still struggle with not be- “There are no words to truly de- really started to stir. their four children. ing able to just pick the phone up scribe the day,” Sr Mariam told The After spending much of the They both agreed that while it and speak to her. She sends letters Catholic Weekly from her new mis- weekend with them, she visited was “heart-breaking” having their which can take months to arrive sion in Indiana. their Regents Park convent and daughter so far away, her happi- and a couple of times a year she “I am totally given to Christ and was struck by a sense of familiarity. ness was far more important. rings us but that’s about it, it is so his church, and this has given way “I witnessed true and real wom- Since leaving Australia in 2014, difficult being so far away but to to an even greater freedom in my en, really down to earth, and they the devoted parents have twice be honest she is just so happy and heart. I am all his, forever, and He loved playing sport and they were yearly spent over 24 hours trav- at the end of the day that’s all you is all mine, forever! all so different,” she said. “I just re- elling each way just to spend 14 want for your kids,” she said. “Due “The day of perpetual profession ally felt like I fitted in.” hours with her and once bor- to COVID we had to livestream her

8 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 vows and honestly it was like her would get married and have lots of wedding day. kids,” she said. “She was just so happy, she said “I believed that a husband ‘Mum it’s my wedding’, the joy on would be the reason for my happi- her face was incredible. ness but when I met the Sisters, I “She told me ‘I have the best saw a joy I couldn’t describe. spouse in the world, and I really “Their joy lies in none of the can’t imagine who could make her things that I imagined would make any happier. me happy, clothes, cars, my own “All I hope is that after starting in home and a man. Their treasure is Nashville and then being sent on Jesus. mission to Memphis and now In- “I guess when I was out with a diana, she doesn’t end up in Alas- guy, I just couldn’t help but com- ka,” she laughed. pare him to Jesus and think ‘this With a number of Dominican guy is great but he just doesn’t Sisters now in Australia, Sr Mariam match up’.” is hoping she will one day return to her home city on mission as a pri- To find out more about the Do- mary school teacher. minican Sisters of Saint Cecilia She advises anyone considering go to www.nashvilledominicans religious life “to live it as if it is a re- and click on the vocations tab lationship”. “Growing up I always thought I

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 9 Vocation of the Christian Home

“…The gaze of the Mother, and the gaze of every mother. A world that looks to the God and to be saints. The cur- future without a mother’s rent demise of our society will gaze is short-sighted. It may soon make us forget that hu- well increase its profits, but man life is created to be more it will no longer see others as – not just to be vaccinated in or- children. It will make money, der to purchase goods, services, but not for everyone. We will go to work, or travel. One of the all dwell in the same house, visible signs of a healthy and but not as brothers and free society is seeing children sisters. The human family is happy in the company of their built upon mothers.A world in mothers in the parks, beaches, which maternal tenderness is picnic sites, at drive ‘thru’, to and dismissed as mere sentiment from school, to and from church may be rich materially, but or at playgrounds etc. poor where the future is At the core of a mother’s vo- concerned. Mother of God, cation is one of prayer. Prayer teach us to see life as you do. is the flame that signals the Turn your gaze upon us, upon presence of God’s love in the our misery, our poverty. Turn home. This blooms in com- to us thine eyes of mercy….” munion. We live this commu- (Reflection on nion with God as Christians Mothers, 22nd March 2020) by praying in communion with one another. This begins first of all at home. This is one of the many good things that God is dra- wing out during from this pandemic. Families are be- ginning to pray more together and spend quality time to- gether. If we remain steadfast in this, then we will be able to serve society more effectively in the future with new enthu- siasm and hope. By Fr Epeli As we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption, let us implo- re God to bestow on all mo- Discerning one’s vocation du- should we do? Who will guide makers.’ I want to honor all thers nurture their children thers many graces, the joy of ring these times is very de- us? Mothers in this edition of our with good habits, graceful the Holy Spirit, the constant manding. Normal routines Vocations Guide. example, sound teachings protection of the Queen of have been so been disrupted Look to the home! and virtue. A mother’s love is Heaven and the delights of by restrictions and more. Wor- Working from home is not so- always genuine and sincere the saints. king from home can be stres- There is a vocation that we mething novel or unique for our especially when she has to We are created in the ima- sful, and at times frustrating need to draw insight and mothers. Mothers and their vo- decline an ‘overrated’ demand ge and likeness of God. This if the Wi-Fi connection is not example from during times cation in motherhood is an ima- for more milk or attention. means that we are created fast enough, or the neighbor such as this. For as long as hu- ge of the Church our Mother. A for communion. The vocati- is renovating next door whi- mans have walked the earth, mother’s vocation is her life. Her Learn from Mum on of Man is Communion. For le you are in a zoom meeting the role and place of a mother life is her work! Her work is her Christians, this is where the etc. With uncertainty for the has been the spine that holds home! Her home is the harbor Christian Mothers have a par- vocation of Christian Mothers future and the possibility of the structure of the human where her children and spouse ticular mission in the Church in particular play a pivotal and extended lockdown’s and res- family together. I do not want find safety and joy! and in the world. A Christian immeasurable role. Christian trictions, it means longer iso- to differentiate here between Mother is a teacher of holiness mothers have an irreplaceable lation from other people and working mothers and what Good citizenship begins in in the home. She labors to rai- role as vessels of communion our usual way of life. What contemporaries call ‘home- the home. It is there that mo- se her children in the ways of in the home and in society.

CONTACT US at the Polding Centre, Level 6, 133 Liverpool Street, Sydney NSW 2000 vocationcentre.org.au | [email protected] | (02) 9307 8433

10 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 HOLYHOLY MATRIMONYMATRIMONY

CHASTECHASTE SINGLESINGLE LIFELIFE

RELIGIOUSRELIGIOUS LIFELIFE

HOLYHOLY ORDERSORDERS

CONTACT US Polding Centre, Level 6, 133 Liverpool Street, Sydney NSW 2000 www.vocationcentre.org.au | [email protected] | (02) 9307 8424

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 11 The Vocation to everyday heroism in the midst of Family Life

It certainly isn’t easy to be a parent at this time in history and we can attest to the fact that it takes an ongoing and intentional focus to keep our families on the path towards holiness and human flourishing.

By Steve Buhagiar

In 1993 and in a local parish hall in the families of today are called western Sydney, the late American to attain! It certainly isn’t easy to priest Fr Robert J. Fox gave a fasci- be a parent at this time in history nating presentation wherein he re- and we can attest to the fact that counted his numerous visits behind it takes an ongoing and intention- the ‘Iron Curtain’ in order to spread al focus to keep our families on the the message of Our Lady of Fatima path towards holiness and human to a Russian people who had under- flourishing. gone decades of de-Christianisa- So what to do? What is at the heart tion. I was there that day with my of this everyday heroism? Amongst wife-to-be and his stories of secret so many other ways to answer this meetings and underground Masses, question I would suggest that, at its often at the risk of imprisonment, very core, it is to live a life of virtue. captured our imagination and left Virtue. A word deemed quite un- us wondering if we would have the fashionable in a world where “my courage to do the same if we found truth” is as relevant as “your truth”. ourselves in similar circumstances. Virtue. Positively, a word which has This question was especially rel- been the absolute foundation for evant in light of the book which Fr. countless saintly persons through Fox had at that time just authored history who strove to know, serve and which was entitled, “Only He- and love God and their neighbour roic Catholic Families will Survive”. as themselves. I’ll move forward, I bought the book because of its therefore, in the sure accompani- striking title and the concrete chal- ment of this latter understanding! lenge it posed just as I was about to The ‘cardinal’ or ‘hinge’ virtues of embark on the exciting adventure faith, hope and charity are a good of marriage and family life. starting point. So often it is around As I reflect on 28 years of married the standard of faith that the strik- life and in the midst of an unprec- ing figure of heroism rises or falls. edented lockdown where lack of The key choices of yes or no, do this access to the sacraments draw re- or shun that, have to do with what al-time parallels with communist “I believe” and what I am prepared Russia, I am realising afresh the to stand up for in light of faith. It critical importance of Fr. Fox’s call is a real heroism and a sometime for an intentional heroism lived in white martyrdom which safeguards the current uncertainty of contem- this great gift given in Baptism and porary family life. which parents are called to trans- We can describe a ‘heroic’ person mit via an inherent responsibility as one who makes great efforts in which carries eternal ramifications. challenging times and where the The example of a parent striving call to act with courage, determina- to live virtue is paramount! Here a tion and with an ear for the Truth, life lived in love and self-gift pro- Father Robert J Fox is imperative. I am going to be so vides a beautiful foundation of he- bold as to state that these truly are roic endeavour. Our children learn the essential characteristics which more from what we do than what

12 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 "We DO fall sometimes in our role as parents and leaders, but the challenge then is to be determined to get up, name our failing, and seek in an intentional manner to be ‘holy’ once more."

Image: Patricia Prudents/Unsplash

we say. They are always watching We have to admit that these chal- puts forward the means by which • Works of charity and taking on-board our respons- lenges are real and not easy to live we can sustain this daily striving to • Community life es to the stimulus of life. They are up to in daily life. And the reality is lead our families heroically and on • Missionary outreach taking in what they see to be our that we DO fall sometimes in our the path of encounter with Jesus. priorities. They are sensitive to the role as parents and leaders of our We do well as families to take to The challenge is ours to take up, moments when we are ‘counter cul- families. The challenge then is to heart the following means by which integrate, and fruitfully utilise this tural’ and when we make a stand be determined to get up, name our Pope Francis encourages us to live foundational and heroic arsenal on principle. They recognise that as failing, and seek in an intention- out the particular heroism called into our family lives. It WILL be dif- parents we are striving to live a life al manner to be ‘holy’ once more. for in our own day and age. ficult and oftentimes even counter- of caritas in light of the truth. They Holy… another unfashionable word! He states, “For this spiritual com- cultural to assimilate these spiritual recognise the moment of heroism However, this is exactly what Jesus bat [read heroism], we can count on habits into the life of the domestic when it comes as surely as they do calls us to do. “Be holy as your Heav- the powerful weapons that the Lord our mediocre response in matters enly Father is holy.” Pope Francis has given us.” The pope then lays church for which we, as parents, are of substantial moral bearing. It is understands this reality. He tells us out his spiritual weapons of choice: responsible to God for. But in doing through our example that we form in Gaudete et Exsultate: “Our path to- so and in light of the far reaching our children’s heroic and moral ed- wards holiness is a constant battle. • Faith-filled prayer lens of eternity, our society will cer- ifice that is so very much required Those who do not realise this will • Meditation on the word of God tainly thank us for forming our chil- in a culture that is relative in the be prey to failure or mediocrity.” No • Participation in the Mass dren into the super-heroes so very face of truth and sometime hostile holding back here from the Pope! • Eucharistic adoration much needed in this challenging to the objective nature of morality. At the same time Pope Francis • Sacramental Reconciliation time in history!

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 13 Another Chapter in the life of Daniel Magadia (msc) Master's student

By Daniel Magadia was also a year of growth and the post-COVID world. But as ing a monastery, with its court- maturity in terms of how I un- "One of the many Frank Dineen msc would often yard, which unsurprisingly has One of the many insights I derstand myself, my prayer insights I gained label the place, Cuskelly House a sculpture of St Francis. It was gained from my formation life, and my relationship with is still paradise. By the way, it at marvelling at the simplicity journey so far has been the im- Jesus, the beloved son of God from my formation was good to resume cooking and beauty of the place where portance of reflection, noticing (an identity I share with Him). for the community again. And I was introduced to YTU’s mas- the moments of growth, con- Also, how lucky was I to be journey so far has goodness me, some of the Fil- cots, the adorable guinea pigs. solation, and even difficulty. As situated at Douglas Park dur- been the importance ipino ingredients I left two It is an environment conducive I dive into another semester of ing the peak of the COVID-19 years ago are still in the pan- for learning. theological studies, I guess it is pandemic. Detachment and of reflection, noticing try. Thankfully most of them As for the people that make ideal for me to do that exercise isolation were already ele- the moments of are not out of date. YTU, there is a warmth, and again. ments of that year, disregard- The big addition to post-no- sense of community among I might as well start by brief- ing the virus. Fast forward to growth, consolation, vitiate life for me is studying the lecturers and students. A ly reflecting on my time in present, I am now professed, Theology again. This is one notable quality is its diversity. last year. To use the and have moved on to another and even difficulty" of the things I was excited I have classmates from across analogy of a novel, the noviti- chapter, another stage of this for since finishing my time the globe, representing a vari- ate was a significant chapter of rollercoaster ride that is reli- one who returned late January, at Douglas Park. I have heard ety of religious congregations. my journey as an MSC. I con- gious life. as mentioned earlier. I may be great things about YTU from Last semester I was the lone sider myself to be extremely Returning to Blackburn was residing in the same room as confreres who either learned MSC student; but this semes- privileged to be given that op- coming back to a place that is the pre-novitiate, but the sur- or taught there. Upon the en- ter I am joined by my brother, portunity. The novitiate was familiar, but within an unfa- roundings, in some ways, are tering the quaint but hallowed Trieu Nguyen, who just fin- a cherished time of entering miliar context. The Daniel (or different. I have both old and grounds of Yarra Theological ished his ELSPM course. deeper into the life, spirit, and Iyel) that once stayed here two new housemates. Of course, Union, I was first captured by I did three units last semes- mission of the congregation. It years ago was different to the there is the “new normal” of its tranquillity. It felt like enter- ter, covering different fields of

14 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 Theology. I found the class- situation. I feel that I am more uation of this ongoing lesson filling. She has a drama minis- es fun and engaging, and I prepared for this second half on the importance of simply try, which was amusing to take learned so much. I considered of the year. being. There were moments part in. myself lucky that the last se- As for highlights, there are where I doubted myself. Am As I embark on this second mester was not affected too many. Some that are worth I just wasting the children’s half of 2021, I look forward to much by the coronavirus, mentioning include the many time? That is why I am thank- more memories, challenges, with all sessions face-to-face. walks through parklands to ful of my confreres at home, and discoveries, accompanied Though I must confess, study- class, witnessing the final pro- who remind me of that valua- by the love and support, and ing at Master’s level was intim- fessions and ordinations of ble insight of presence before I the banter and laughter of my idating, especially with their schoolmates, cheering at the drive off to Keysborough. Aside brother MSC’s. Bring it on! big assessments. It tested my Brotherhood Cup, and finish- from that, being a Catechist energy, and my ability to stay ing the last 4000-word essay has been fulfilling and fun. organised and disciplined. The for my lecturer and communi- Looks like my experience in moments of insights, stress, ty leader, Philip Malone (which Antioch and youth ministry IMAGES: Daniel is symbolically and of- and even procrastination, were signified the end of the semes- did come in handy, especially ficially welcomed by his formator Khoi opportunities for growth. ter). with games. Nguyen msc at the doorway of the It also tested my religious Aside from studying, this Another placement was Chapel, far left. Signing of documents life, especially regarding first half of 2021 was also oc- Can you see your face in this picture? briefly helping Geraldine Lee, during the Rite of Profession, above, prayer. To use another analogy, cupied with pastoral work. One A drawing by Daniel. and her ministry to people in with Celebrant Fr Chris McPhee msc I was so used to juggling a cer- of my commitments this year housing commission, drug ad- (Provincial), Daniel Magadia to his tain number of clubs. The ad- is teaching Catechesis to chil- ence is a greater respect of pri- dicts, and those suffering from right and Trieu Nguyen to his left. dition of another item meant dren preparing for first recon- mary school teachers. mental illness. There were Witnesses are Fr Tony Arthur msc (on returning to re-practicing jug- ciliation and communion. One Relating to past pastoral ex- moments that were confront- Daniel's right) and Fr Michael Fallon gling, and adapting to the new definite fruit from this experi- periences, teaching is a contin- ing, but likewise it was also ful- msc (on Trieu's left).

Frank Dineen, msc Missionaries of the Sacred Heart Director, MSC formation 02 9665 8999 Be on earth the Heart of God 1A Waltham St, Coogee NSW 2034 [email protected]

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 15 World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly

As the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly draws near, Sydney mums praise their parents Parenting is a challenging gig, but it’s certainly made easier with supportive grandparents, says Marthe Azzi.

By Marilyn Rodrigues

IT’S A GREAT he Sydney mum says that she and in the love from their Nannu and Nanna (on her “awesome husband” Char- PRIVILEGE, IT GIVES both sides) and we know our parents’ lives lie consider themselves blessed OUR CHILDREN THE have been enriched because of the love and that both sets of grandparents are joy our children bring to them.” willing and able to regularly help OPPORTUNITY TO DEVELOP Campsie couple Chantal and Piotr Czeczot- Twith the care of their daughters, two-year-old ko named their children, one-year-old Antoni Emilia and six-month-old Natalie. Marthe, a THEIR OWN RELATIONSHIP Tadeusz and four-month-old daughter Maria doctor, is currently working towards a PhD Danielle, after all four of their grandparents. while Charlie is a busy graphic designer with WITH THEIR GRANDPARENTS” “It wasn’t out of any sense of obligation, the archdiocese’s Sydney Centre for Evange- but we both just felt so blessed by the parents lisation. we’d been given that we wanted to name our Their parents, Henri and Afife Chehade and dependent to us. It also brings us closer to our first boy or our first girl after them,” Chantal Marie and Wadih Azzi (both ‘Tata and Jedo’ parents and in-laws too.” said. Piotr’s parents, Maria and Tadeusz, live to their grandchildren), are not only often in- I’m very aware I’m very blessed and not in Poland and last visited Sydney for Antoni’s volved in Emilia and Natalie’s daily life but everyone has the same support in the chal- baptism just before the first COVID pandemic also pass on many of the faith traditions and lenging work of parenting. But I can’t ask for border closures. wisdom that underpins the loving extended better circumstances, we are surrounded by Chantal said they have been a “phenomenal family. a supportive circle in our family, friends, and help” for the young family who keep in touch “They pray with the girls and teach them workplaces.” with regular phone and video calls, while Ma- many of the beautiful rituals of our Maronite Simon and Madeleine Carrington agree that ria as a paediatric doctor is always the first ‘go Catholic tradition. We are so fortunate that the role of a grandparent is “irreplaceable”. to’ person the moment a health or medical they are able to care for our girls when Charlie The parents of Joseph, who turns two next worry arises. and I are both at work. month and four-month-old Thomas say they “Even from such a great distance the chil- “I know that many grandparents would love feel blessed that their parents play an active dren can feel the incredible love and care their to do the same but circumstances don’t allow role in the children’s lives. ‘Babcia’ and ‘Bziadbk’ have for them,” Chantal them to. But for us it’s a great privilege, it gives “They are also a point of support and en- said. Her own parents Anthony and Danielle our children the opportunity to develop their couragement for us in our journey as par- Khoury luckily live a short drive away and are own relationship with their grandparents in- ents,” Madeleine added. “Our children delight happy to act as babysitters or just spend time

16 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 IMAGES: GIOVANNI PORTELLI

with the little ones doing things Chantal re- dren and grandchildren. As a grandparent members her grandparents did. myself it is most reassuring to remember that Steven Buhagiar, team leader of the Life, whatever happens we can always make that Marriage and Family Office said parents are contribution.” increasingly turning to grandparents for sup- This year Pope Francis instituted a Church- port due to the increased pressures of the wide celebration of a World Day for Grand- pace of life we live in places such as Sydney. parents and the Elderly. It is one of the “This provides wonderful opportunities for initiatives of the Year of Amoris Laetitia Fam- parents to have welcome input into the lives ily, (19 March 2021-26 June 2022), which was of their grandchildren, despite also know- launched by Pope Francis on the feast of St ing that they have to allow the parents to be Joseph this year, to be held close to the liturgi- parents,” he said. “One of the greatest gifts a cal memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparent can give is to pray for our chil- grandparents of Jesus.

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 17 THE YEAR ON FAMILY LOVE

Why we need to embrace the year on family love

The year on family love, technically called Year "Amoris Laetitia Family," will conclude on June 22, 2022. The family "deserves a year of celebrations, so that it can be placed at the centre of commitment and care from every pastoral and ecclesial reality."

fter the announcement Laetitia," a postsynodal apostolic ex- "aims to reach every family around the young people are made more aware of of the Year of St. Joseph, hortation on marriage and family life world through several spiritual, pasto- "formation in the truth of love and in which began 8 Decem- published in the wake of two synods ral and cultural proposals that can be the gift of self"; and that outreach be ber 2020, and lasts until that took place in 2014 and 2015 -- the implemented within parishes, dioceses, extended to all members of the family, 8 December of this year year on family love, technically called universities, ecclesial movements and from young to old, in all walks of life. In A2021, the Holy See made a related an- Year "Amoris Laetitia Family," will con- family associations." all ways, it is seeking to extend and pro- nouncement on the Feast of the Holy clude on June 22, 2022. It will culminate In celebration of the year, the dicast- mote the message of family life found Family. On 27 December 2020, the with the occasion of the World Meeting ery is encouraging five approaches: in Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation. for Laity, Family and Life of Families 2022 in Rome. that the content of "Amoris Laetitia" be "Amoris Laetitia" is not a contro- promulgated another special year: According to the dicastery's an- more widely shared; that the sacrament versy-free document. Much has been this one to "bear witness to family nouncement, the family "deserves a of marriage be proclaimed as a gift that made of Pope Francis' seeming pastoral love." year of celebrations, so that it can be contains the "transforming power of accommodation regarding the availa- Beginning on the feast of St. Joseph placed at the centre of commitment human love"; that families be enabled bility of the sacraments for the divorced on 19 March, which is also the fifth and care from every pastoral and ec- to actively evangelise and catechise and remarried in one of the document's anniversary of the signing of "Amoris clesial reality." It added that the year their own members from within; that footnotes, and there will be some who

18 • CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 Michal and Angelika Steciak and their children, 19-month-old Peter, and 11-month-old Mary, are pictured in a 11 July, 2021 photo at their home in Rembieszyce, Poland. The Steciak family was named the 2021 International Family of the Year by the Knights of Columbus during the fraternal order's virtual convention 3-4 Aug. (CNS photo/Maciej Maziarka, Knights of Columbus) will immediately dismiss this year and for encouraging and inspiring couples er and fewer, and the decline extends tions are introduced. Virtue is nurtured. its opportunities because of it. Yet de- and families in the trenches of every- to the number of children who are bap- This most basic cell of society is where spite the pages upon pages of analysis day life." It is, we said, "rich in practical tized. Many of those who do get bap- the faith can flourish, if it is properly written about paragraph 351 and its advice and conveys a real understand- tized are not well formed in the faith, tended to. And if there's anything the accompanying annotation, to ignore a ing of humanity in all its successes and and we know that by the end of high coronavirus pandemic has taught us concrete opportunity to focus on, en- failings." We added that the document school, many of them will have left the about family life, it's that most of the courage and strengthen family life, es- "will be effective in offering support to church. In recent years in this country, time, we're not giving it proper atten- pecially during this time of pandemic, couples and families and in renewing we also have seen the redefinition of tion. As COVID-19 has forced us to slow would be detrimental to the mission of and sustaining their efforts to live as marriage and the elevation of a cultural down and be together, we are reminded the church. Christ intends." idea of gender over biological sex. that building up our domestic churches Indeed, while "Amoris Laetitia" may Five years on, as the challenges fac- Faithful, well-catechised families are should be a priority. have its challenging passages, the ex- ing family life have become more acute, critical to the mission of the church and This is the potential that the Year hortation is, as the Our Sunday Visitor these statements remain true. For dec- can help to reverse these trends. Within "Amoris Laetitia Family" brings with Editorial Board wrote in 2016, practi- ades now, the number of people getting the family, the Gospel is lived out and it. May we allow it to be a blessed time. cal, accessible and "highly effective ... married in the church has become few- passed on in word and in deed. Voca- - CNS

CATHOLIC VOCATIONS 2021 • 19 No vocation is born of itself or lives for itself. A vocation flows from the heart of God and blossoms in the good soil of faithful people. Did not Jesus say: “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” - Jn 13:35