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Obla e Connec ions
Oblate Connections – No.14, 17th February 2012
On December 17th the Church beatified the 22 Oblate shared together is religious life as St. Eugene Martyrs together with their lay companion in Madrid. understood it. For Eugene, he and his men were The celebration was an occasion of great joy and an called to be co-workers with Jesus in the very same opportunity to give thanks for the heroic witness that work that Jesus undertook when he came on earth.” these men gave to our faith. In his homily, Cardinal St.Eugene understood that his vocation was to be a Amato invited us to “imitate the strength of the martyrs, preacher whose mission was “to preach Jesus Christ the strength of their faith, the immensity of their love, and Jesus Christ crucified.” This understanding was the greatness of their hope.” rooted in his own personal experience before the cross This month we celebrate on Feb 17th the anniversary on Good Friday in 1807. This was an overwhelming of the day in 1826 when the Church formally approved discovery of a God who was simply saying to him, “If I the rule of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate. Fr. Michael am here, it is because of you, it is because I love you.” Hughes reflecting on the inspiration for the foundation May these words be in our own hearts as we prepare of the Congregation wrote “What drew Eugene to the to mark the beginning of Lent on February 22nd. I pray religious life was the sense that the life of the missionary that this year’s Lenten journey will a time for us to demanded it. The model of the missionary, said Eugene, grow in appreciation of the deep love God has for must be Jesus the missionary and his Twelve Apostles each one of us personally and how we all are invited too. They lived and journeyed with Jesus on the roads to witness to that love in the present moment. of Galilee, Samaria, Judea, preaching the coming of the Kingdom of God. The life Jesus and the Twelve – Fr. Lorcán O’Reilly OMI
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Thoughts on the Spirituality of St. Eugene de Mazenod...... 2
The Beatification of the Martyrs in Madrid..... 4
A New Step on the Journey...... 6
Planting Seeds in the Desert...... 8
Reflecting on the Christmas Story...... 10
Oblate Youth Service...... 12
Weekend Retreat and Summer Camp...... 14
What’s Happening in Crewe...... 15
Upcoming Events...... 16 Thoughts on the Spirituality of St. Eugene de Mazenod
What can we say about the spirituality of St. Eugene reached out to the poor of the countryside. He was de Mazenod? I share with you some of my own driven to share with them the Good News that he had reflections which come from seeing the spirituality experienced in the Cross of Jesus and desired that all of St. Eugene lived by Oblates I have known, the those neglected, abandoned and overlooked might missionaries with whom I have lived and worked. know that love. As a bishop we see the joy St. Eugene My thoughts here also come from speaking with encountered at being among the poor, receiving them Oblate Associates and listening to their experience into his palace and visiting their homes to take the of living the spirituality of St. Eugene. sacraments to the elderly and infirm.
The founder of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Saint Eugene’s spirituality was lived out in his daily Immaculate had a spirituality imbued with the love of life, and his experience of God’s overwhelming love God. Eugene experienced God’s love for himself in a transformed, bit by bit, who he was and how he lived. very powerful way as he prayed before the cross on He sought to speak the local language of the people Good Friday in 1807. It was that experience of the cross because he knew they were loved by God, and ardently and the love of Jesus as Saviour that shaped the rest he strove to have them hear and know the Good News. of Eugene’s life. This moment held for the young man In confession he was very merciful and forgiving. His a fundamental insight into who God is and also a deep love for the poor soon reached beyond the Aix diocese insight about himself, into who he was. He encountered to other dioceses and then embraced the poor of other a merciful God and he experienced himself as a sinful lands as he sent missionaries to Asia, Africa and man, yet saved and loved by Jesus. North America. Throughout these years in which his heart grew to welcome into it the world, St. Eugene I believe that in St. Eugene’s experience of a merciful encountered the unconditional love of the Saviour Saviour his love for the poor – another essential both in the Eucharist and in the Word of God. dimension of our spirituality - was born. Jesus shed His blood to save us and so the human person is of Saint Eugene’s spirituality, based on the experience inestimable worth. His own missionary focus was on of God’s unconditional love for the human person, the poor and the abandoned. He reached out to impelled his missionary thrust. Oblate spirituality, always prisoners and to abandoned children. His heart grounded in the experience of being loved and saved
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 2 “Saint Eugene’s spirituality was lived out in his daily life, and his experience of God’s overwhelming love transformed, bit by bit, who he was and how he lived.”
by Jesus, is missionary spirituality and goes out to serve, people wherever we labour. We often learn better from to commit and to work. The fruits are the sign of the poor how to love Mary than they learn from us. authentic spirituality: the preaching of the Gospel and They are masters in devotion to the Mother of Mercy! the works of justice done with humility and simplicity. Pope Paul VI called St. Eugene a man passionately A strong relationship with the Church is also at the in love with Jesus Christ. Today, Oblates and Oblate heart of Oblate spirituality. Saint Eugene loved the Associates continue to live his spirituality as we seek Church because he considered the Church to be the to deepen within us the experience of God’s loving Body of Christ and because Jesus gave up His own salvation as witnessed in the Cross of Jesus. Like St. life for the Church. Eugene De Mazenod knew from Eugene, we spend time each day encountering Jesus personal experience that the Church was not perfect, in the Word and in the Eucharist. Our passion for Jesus and even when he suffered from decisions of the and for the Church impels us as missionaries to the hierarchy he continued to love the Church in its poorest and most abandoned people. We are missioned entirety without withdrawing his love from any particular under the special protection of Mary Immaculate, our portion of it. Blessed Mother. We ask St. Eugene to bless us with a life in the Spirit springing from his own passionate and Oblate spirituality, from St. Eugene’s own life, also generous heart, one that will sustain and enliven our includes a very special relationship with the Mother missionary oblation in the face of our challenges today. of Mercy, Mary Immaculate. We find in Mary a sure help in living our missionary lives in holiness, and we Saint Eugene De Mazenod, pray for us! are called by De Mazenod to bring that devotion to the - Fr Louis Lougen OMI (Oblate Superior General)
Next Provincial Named
Fr. Ray Warren OMI has been named as the next Provincial of the Anglo-Irish Province. Fr. Ray will take up his appointment at the Annual Assembly in Crewe in June. Fr. Ray brings a wide range of pastoral experience to his new role. For the last 4 years Fr. Ray has been based in Dublin where he has served as Vicar Provincial. Prior to this, he worked in the Kilburn Centre of Mission and was parish priest of St. Anne’s Rock Ferry on Merseyside. We take this opportunity on behalf of all the Oblate Family of wishing Fr. Ray every blessing and happiness in his new role and assure him of our support and prayers.
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 3 The Beatification of the Martyrs in Madrid
The ceremony of beatification of the Servants of God, Fr. Francisco Esteban Lacal and 21 Oblate companions, plus one layman, Cándido Castán San José, began at noon on December 17th. It took place in the Cathredral of Santa Maria la Real de la Almudena in Madrid…
One had to be there at least an hour and a half or two There were more than 150 priests, and half of them hours ahead of time to get a seat. Even that was not were Oblates. Many of them had arrived on the 16th, enough. By 10:30, most the pews were filled. Needless coming from various parts of the world. to say, later on, others would be arriving until all of the seats in the Cathedral were filled. Notable among those There were many moving moments. Of course, one attending were the families of the newly beatified: of them was when Cardinal Amato read the decree of brothers, nieces, nephews, great-nephews and nieces, Beatification from Benedict XVI. At that moment, they and even a brother and several grandchildren of the uncovered the image of the newly beatified, and their layman, Cándido Castán. family members carried in procession some palms, one for each newly Blessed, which they placed around No less amazing was seeing almost 200 clergy which the image. There were many emotions and more than included 20 Bishops. Cardinal Angelo Amato, Prefect one tear welled up in the eyes of many of those present. of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, presided at the celebration. Joining him were the Cardinal- The homily, simple yet heartfelt, spoke of the new Archbishop of Madrid, Antonio Maria Rouco Varela, martyrs’ faithfulness to God. At the end of the cel- and the Cardinal Prefect of the Congregation for ebration Fr. General, Louis Lougen, spoke words of Divine Worship, Antonio Cañizares. There were two thanks to all present, especially the family members Oblate Bishops: Michael D. Pfeiffer of San Angelo, who were at the celebration and who, in different Texas, and Ramiro Diaz, bishop emeritus of the ways, had helped make the event take place. Apostolic Vicariate of Machiques (Venezuela). - Diego Sáez Martín
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 4 “It’s good not to forget this tragedy. It is also good not to forget the reaction of our martyrs. To the wicked actions of their murderers, they responded with kind words, prayer and forgiveness for their persecutors, accepting death with fortitude, for love of Jesus Christ.”
Excerpts from the homily of Cardinal Angelo Amato, SDB, during the celebration of the Beatification:
The cry of a thousand mothers cannot silence the pain of the Church at the loss of these her sons, killed because of hatred of God. Unfortunately, history shows that when man erases from his conscience the commandments of God, in his heart are also broken all ties to goodness, The martyrs teach us that our witness to the Gospel thus leading him to committing monstrous deeds. In involves not only a virtuous life but also, at times, losing God, man also loses his humanity. martyrdom. Pope Benedict XVI, in his Apostolic Letter of Beatification, says that the 22 Oblate Martyrs and It’s good not to forget this tragedy. It is also good not the layman, father of a family, “while remaining faithful to forget the reaction of our martyrs. To the wicked to their vocation, relentlessly preached the Gospel and, actions of their murderers, they responded with kind by shedding their own blood, bore witness to their words, prayer and forgiveness for their persecutors, genuine love of the Lord Jesus and of his Church.” accepting death with fortitude, for love of Jesus Christ. Their behaviour gave light to the darkness of evil. This is the message which the martyrs offer us. Society has no need of hatred, violence and division, but We are touched by the words of the young, eighteen only of love, forgiveness and brotherhood. In a world year old Oblate, Clemente Rodriguez Tejerina, who, weakened by wounds of every kind, the Christian is months before his martyrdom, had told his sister, called, even today, to give a strong testimony of God’s Josefa: “If we have to die, I am ready; I am confident providential presence and the effectiveness of his that God will give us the strength we need to be faithful.” grace which, in a way so mysterious but real, changes We seem to hear the words of the apostle Paul who evil thoughts into thoughts for good. wrote these words to the Christians in Rome: “What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish, May the new Martyrs be, above all, life teachers for or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, their brother Oblates of Mary Immaculate; may they, or peril, or the sword? […] No, in all these things we in the school of these martyrs, strengthen the love of conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us.” Christ and of the Church, and be generous and eager (Romans 8:35, 37) missionaries of the new evangelization in the whole world.
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 5 A New Step on the Journey The First Public Commitment by members of the Friends of St. Eugene
As members of the Oblate congregation worldwide From Maureen Wallace, a Friend from Norris Green gathered on the vigil and the feast of the Immaculate On the eve of the feast of the Immaculate Conception Conception to celebrate their titular feast, so too I participated with parishioners from St Teresa’s, Norris did the parishioners of Rock Ferry, Norris Green Green and St Anne’s, Rock Ferry in a celebration of and St. Anne’s, Birmingham who wished to formalise Holy Mass, during which Friends of St Eugene made their association with the Oblate Congregation as a public and individual commitment to share in the Friends of St Eugene. It was a pleasure and a charism of St Eugene – to live the Oblate spirituality privilege to welcome Fr Willie Fitzpatrick to preside through regular prayer, living simple lifestyles, with a at the Masses assisted by Fr Lorcan O’Reilly. spirit of openness to others especially the poor and marginalised. Fr Willie thanked those who were formalising their commitment for the dedicated way that they had pre- In the readings for the day we heard how the Angel pared themselves, through prayer and learning about Gabriel appeared to Mary to announce her special St. Eugene and his mission at the monthly meetings, calling and how from the moment she answered ‘yes’ and remarked on the suitability of the date for making her life was changed. We reflected on how God calls such a promise. As an outward symbol of their each of us – who are the angels in our lives and who commitment, the Friends of St. Eugene were given has been instrumental in our journey, touching and a small lapel pin. The pin is round, symbolising the strengthening our unity and call, of all that is essential world, and is made up of the three letters, “OMI”, in our lives. The lines of inspiration rooted in the life clearly making the Oblate identity central to the design. and practice of St Eugene certainly has a shaping The letters form a cross, with arms outstretched to influence on the ministry of thousands of Oblates embrace the world in oblation, in total self-giving. worldwide. In the face of such witness, we can perhaps In this way we are reminded of a loving Christ, the be forgiven for feeling that our call is ordinary and not charism of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate filled with great excitement. It was good therefore to and our own role as Christians and as Friends of St. remember that we are each called by name, that it Eugene bringing the Good News to the world in word is a call to trust God’s presence in our lives. This in and action. turn helps us to be present to each other so that our united presence will make a difference in our world. - discovering together that we make up a single body, that we belong to each other and that God has called us together as a source of life for each other and for the world especially those on the margins. I felt a huge sense of gratitude at being able to join with others in making this commitment on such a special day for Oblates worldwide.
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 6 “As friends of St Eugene we too have committed to follow the mission to serve the poor and marginalised in whatever capacity. As Fr Willie said in his homily ‘the seeds have been sown and the fruit is awaited’.”
From Pat Hughes, a Friend from Rock Ferry From a group of Birmingham Friends Several parishioners of St Anne’s, Rock Ferry, joined The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is always a by four parishioners of St Teresa’s, Norris Green, special day here in Birmingham and this year it was celebrated on the evening of Wednesday 7th December, even more special as many of us were welcomed into an auspicious date indeed. For over 12 months, led the Oblate family as Friends of St Eugene by Fr Willie by Mary Tyrrell and Kirk Jacob from Partners in Mission, and Fr Lorcan. The journey, since we were invited to these parishioners studied St Eugene’s life and mission become Friends, has been inspiring and many strong with the ultimate joy of enrolment in the Friends of St bonds of Friendship have been formed. Mary and Eugene. As friends of St Eugene we too have committed Kirk have done trojan work preparing for the monthly to follow the mission to serve the poor and marginalised meetings, making the trips to St Anne’s encouraging in whatever capacity. As Fr Willie said in his homily and helping us to develop our knowledge of St Eugene, ‘the seeds have been sown and the fruit is awaited’. his charism and mission. We thank them for their In the service as we individually said ‘I make this work, dedication and friendship. A special thank you commitment under the patronage of St Eugene de to Canon Pat Browne for his hospitality. We look Mazenod and Mary Immaculate’ I think the nervousness forward to the coming years and trust that we will, obvious in our voices showed that we clearly understood following the example of St Eugene, be witnesses of the awesomeness of our obligation. the love of God for all peoples.
As we wear the beautiful lapel pin given as a symbol of our commitment I pray that Mary Immaculate inter- cede with Christ, her son, our brother, that St Eugene guides our paths so that the fruit becomes God’s Glory.
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 7
“We could not proclaim the Gospel loudly, so we whispered,” – Fr. Andrzej.
For 13 years Fr. Andrzej has been planting the seeds of Catholicism in Turkmenistan, an almost entirely Islamic nation that borders Iran and Afghanistan. The Catholic Church now has a public presence in the country, more than 90 years after being expelled by the Communist regime.
“This is a decisive moment in the history of the Church in this country,” said Fr. Andrzej. “We are filled with great joy and hope.”
Father Andrzej is one of only two Catholic priests (the other is also an Oblate) in a country with a population of five million. The Catholic community in Turkmenistan numbers only about 100 members - but it is growing. Currently there are 30 catechumens preparing for baptism. Father Andrzej and Fr. Radoslaw Zmitrowicz, O.M.I. arrived in Turkmenistan from Poland in 1997. “Every day I was encountering people who live the They were allowed into the country as diplomatic Beatitudes, poor and simple people, open to the Lord, representatives of the Holy See. Because the govern- open to other people, responsible for one another,” ment would not give the Catholic Church official said Fr. Andrzej. The Oblates invited people to attend recognition, the evangelization and sacramental Mass in their apartment. activities of the priests were very limited. At the first Mass only two families attended, one Iraqi “We could not proclaim the Gospel loudly, so we and one American. Over time about 30 people began whispered,” said Fr. Andrzej. attending. Most of them were from the diplomatic community. But eventually they were joined by a In the early days the Oblates could find only a handful growing number of local residents. of foreign workers who were Catholic. They were quickly struck by the fact that for a radius of 1,000 miles, Today the Oblates celebrate Mass every day. Most they were the only priests celebrating the Eucharist. are in Russian, but at least once a week the Mass is in English. Opportunities to pray the rosary and for Father Andrzej said he will never forget his first Eucharistic Adoration are also available throughout Christmas Midnight Mass. Not one person showed the week. On the weekends there are meetings with up at his tiny apartment. But he was undeterred. young adults and children.
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 8 Father Andrzej has given local residents a chance to witness firsthand the breadth of the universal Church. He has taken groups of young people to World Youth Day events in Canada and Germany. He even took a delegation to Rome for an audience with the late Pope John Paul II.
Father Andrzej met with the Pope just five months before his death. He showed the Holy Father a stone from Turkmenistan’s Kopetdag Mountains and told him one day a church would be built there. It would be the first Catholic church built in Turkmenistan in nearly 100 years.
“The Pope blessed the stone and it is still here in my apartment,” said Fr. Andrzej. “But not for long, we hope.”
Supporting the work of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate. The Missionary Oblates are blessed with many and varied gifts, talents and skills and they bring their God-given talents to bear in a wide variety of ministries. Yet they all pursue the same mission and goal – to serve God by serving those most in need. We need your help to continue serving the world’s poor. Here are some of the ways you can share in this work with us: Prayer Our missionaries obtain strength knowing that people difference in the lives of those we serve. We welcome are praying for their ministries. your financial gift in any of the following ways: * One-time Donations Spread the Word * Wills & Bequests Tell your friends and family about the ministries of * Monthly Contributions. the Missionary Oblates. We are involved in so many diverse programs that everyone can find a ministry If you wish to make a donation towards the work of that interests them. the Oblates please send what you can to: Ireland: Fr. Vincent Mulligan OMI, Mission Office, Financial Contribution House of Retreat, Tyrconnell Rd, Inchicore, Dublin 8. The Oblates specialize in difficult missions, meaning that many of these ministries cannot sustain UK: Oblate Partners in Mission, Denis Hurley House, themselves financially. Your donation will make a 14 Quex Rd, London, NW6 4PL.
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 9 Reflecting on the Christmas Story – Who are you in the Christmas Story?
Since Advent 2009, it has become a Partners in Fr Frank asked us all to consider and compare Mission tradition to invite Fr Frank Santucci to ourselves with the santon called Ravi, who appears in present an Advent retreat at the Oblate Retreat all Nativity scenes. The ravi, an important Provençal centre in Crewe. This year was no exception and santon, is a man or woman in rapture, always portrayed Fr Frank travelled from the Oblate Congregation with arms upraised who comes and offers to Jesus all Foundation House in Aix en Provence to be with that he/she is or has. us for two weekends in December. This year he presented retreats in both Crewe and the Emmaus The question to consider was “Who are you in the Retreat centre in Dublin. Nativity scene, where do you see yourself, what gifts do you bring?” A good question to ask at any time Over the two weekends, more than 60 people benefitted during the year as we were reminded that it is not from the very prayerful, meditative yet challenging only at Christmas that we are asked to bring ourselves reflections that Fr Frank offered to them. I particularly and our gifts and praise to God. mention where Fr Frank travelled from as the Provençal Nativity was the starting point for both the Advent Many times over both weekends Fr Frank came back retreats which were entitled “Are you prepared to risk to the title for the retreat “Are you prepared to risk celebrating Christmas this year?” celebrating Christmas this year?”– to take a risk and do what needs to be done. And we all have the gifts The traditional Nativity and talents to do just that. In fact, a very moving scene in Provence memory is of the ballet sequence “She without arm, presents a certain he without leg” - available on Youtube for those who group of characters, wish to see it. A wonderful example of people helping called “santons”, each other despite personal limitations. which come together with those we are more Fr Frank also introduced us to the Martyrs of Pozuelo accustomed to see in who were prepared to risk all. They were 22 Oblate a Nativity scene to give it a special flavour that is priests and brothers and a lay associate, and whose uniquely ‘Provençal.’ The word “santon” comes from beatification would take place in Madrid on 17th the Provençal word santoun meaning ‘little saint.’ December 2011. They were all men of tremendous Santons are clay figurines which are hand-painted and courage who surrendered their lives rather than deny dressed in traditional costumes. They represent tradi- their faith. These 23 men were killed because they tional characters from Southern France. The Nativity were not ashamed to give witness to their Catholic is depicted as an event that brings together everyone faith at a time in Spain when it was easier and a lot in the local community instead of one that happened safer to fall in line with Communist ideology. far away and long ago. This year to celebrate 150th In 1992 Blessed John Paul II spoke about the martyrs anniversary of the death of St Eugene, a special santon of Pozuelo. He said they “were persecuted with particular of him was produced and placed in the Nativity scene. hatred and cruelty; their only fault – if one can express
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 10 Reflecting on the Christmas Story – Who are you in the Christmas Story?
“Who are you in the Nativity scene, A view from one of the Dublin Retreat participants. The Church's liturgical year begins with the season of where do you see yourself, what Advent, which means arrival or coming. It is a season gifts do you bring?” of hope & anticipation, so when I saw the title of the retreat I was curious & decided to go on the retreat. It was an opportunity to step out of the hustle and bustle it that way – was believing in Christ, preaching the of life to prepare in a deeper way for our celebration Gospel and leading the people on the road to salvation. of the birth of Christ our Saviour. Following our arrival The enemies of Christ and of his teaching believed & supper Fr. Lorcan O'Reilly OMI introduced Fr. Frank that by eliminating them, they could make the Santucci OMI who was going to lead the week-end Church completely disappear from Spanish soil.” and who reminded us that we were all members of the Oblate family preparing for Christmas in the company Their story is truly inspirational and they are a great of St. Eugene. The following day we had 3 talks, blessing to the Congregation as their courage and morning & evening prayer. These talks were thought oblation is recognized by the worldwide church. provoking and challenging all in a positive way. How are you preparing for Christmas? What do you want Back to the question “Are you prepared to risk to come to birth in you? Who is the God whose birth celebrating Christmas this year?” Whatever our answer you are preparing for? What is your favourite scripture we do not know where our ”Yes “or No” will lead. text? Mine – the baby was born in swaddling cloths Taking the risk of celebrating Christmas is not just for & laid in a manger because there was no room for Christmas but we were challenged to say “Yes” and them in the inn. We were introduced to a new way risk using our gifts, faith and talents at all times and of thinking via preparing the crib. Fr. Frank spoke in all areas of our lives especially for the benefit of the of St Eugene & the village he grew up in where the poor and marginalized. crib is part of the community. The village people are - Mary Tyrrell depicted as part of the village scene. The crib is the centre of the village & the statues called santons are made in the likeness of various people who represent that community, for example - the baker, the teacher, the nurse, the doctor, the priest; at the moment they are making one of St Eugene. Each person attending the retreat was given the chance to place themselves as a santon in the nativity scene during our closing Mass as a way of leading us to prepare for the Birth of Jesus in a personal way. Hopefully we all will have a ‘ravi-wow’ moment on Christmas morning when we see the infant Jesus in the crib. – Geraldine Walsh
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 11 Oblate Youth Service – A Report from Around the Province.
Edinburgh The OYS in Edinburgh have recently started an ‘Impact’ group for teenagers in St Mary’s Star of the Sea, Leith. This programme is a great opportunity for the young people of the parish to learn more about the Oblate Community and also to understand more fully their role in this community, as members of the Oblate family. ‘Impact’ will also offer lots of opportunities for the young people to discuss social issues which are relevant to them. Social activities will also be planned throughout this too. Also, a scripture group for young adults is due to begin in February, to which all young people aged 18 Hyde Park, London and over are invited to join. For more information about these projects, contact Anne Fegan, [email protected] or phone: 0131 554 2482.
Wales Here in North Wales, a small but dedicated team is working hard to raise our profile and membership. We’re currently in the planning stages of a recruitment drive and plan to present the Oblate Youth Service at Masses across North Wales by early spring. From this, our aim is to host a number of events and fundraising activities across North Wales throughout Céilí in Dublin 2012, with the proceeds going towards the work of the Oblate Youth Service here in the Anglo-Irish Province. Over the past 12 months we’ve represented the Oblate family of North Wales in Lourdes as well as taking On 17th December, members of the OYS joined a part in World Youth Day in Spain, however in 2012 number of young people from Sacred Heart Parish we’re aiming to ensure that our presence is felt at for a fun-filled day at Winter Wonderland in Hyde home as well as overseas! Park. Despite the cold, a great time was had by all, - Fergal Owens with lots of laughter, adrenaline-fuelled fairground rides, and loads of hot chocolate to warm up! London The London OYS are also busy preparing to host During Advent, members of the Oblate Youth Service young people aged 14-17 from all over the UK for sold Christmas wreaths outside all Masses at Sacred the ‘Flame of Faith’ weekend retreat, taking place Heart Church, Kilburn. Over the course of two weekends, on 23rd-25th March. The highlight of the weekend the wreath sale raised a grand total of £965 for the work will be the Flame Congress in Wembley Arena, with of the OYS here in the Anglo-Irish Province. Our sincerest 10,000 young people coming together to celebrate thanks to all who bought wreaths from us, and to the their Catholic faith. For more details on the Flame of parish team for supporting our fundraising efforts. Faith weekend, see advertisement opposite.
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 12 Dublin In the months following our trip to Lourdes, the OYS up to dance the well known Walls of Limerick or join had three events, a Table Quiz Night, our Annual in for the Siege of Ennis! Special thanks to those who Reunion for Lourdes workers and the OYS Annual Raffle travelled over from abroad for the night! Many people Draw. The Table Quiz was a fun night for all who commented that it was the best reunion in years! attended and was lovely to catch up with friends a few weeks after Lourdes. The Social & Fundraising To finish the year off, the OYS held its Annual Raffle Committee will be organising another Quiz Night shortly in December. We congratulate the winners and offer enough and we hope to have just as much fun again! a special thanks to those members who made efforts to sell extra tickets, and also, a sincere thank you to Our Annual Reunion was a little different this year than Ann Kenny and Sr. Kathleen who made huge efforts the past few years. We held a Céilí Night in the Arus on our behalf to sell tickets! We are now looking Mhuire Hall, Inchicore on November 19th. The turn forward to all that is being planned for 2012 and to out was great, the home-made desserts were fabulous celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the OYS! and the dancing lasted all evening with everyone getting - Ruth Bennett
Flame of Faith Weekend Are you aged between 14 and 17? If so, why not join us for the OYS ‘Flame of Faith’ weekend in London? Friday 23rd – Sunday 25th March 2012
The weekend will be a combination of prayer, activity and community with other like-minded young people from across the UK. The highlight of the weekend will be the CYMFed Flame Congress on Saturday, where 10,000 young people will gather in Wembley Arena for a day of fun, learning, and meeting Olympic medal winners- past and future! Evenings will be spent sharing as a young Oblate community, forming friendships, celebrating shared experiences- but most of all, having fun! Subsidised by Partners in Mission, the event will cost £50 for young people living outside London, and £25 for those within London. To book, or for more information, please contact:
Anne Fegan St Mary’s Star of the Sea, 106 Constitution Street Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6AW Tel: 0131 554 2482 | [email protected]
Ronan Lavery Oblate Partners in Mission, Denis Hurley House, 14 Quex Rd, Kilburn London NW6 4PL Tel: 020 7624 7296 | [email protected] Space is limited, so book now to avoid disappointment!
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 13 Weekend Retreat for young adults Are you aged between 18 and 30? Do you sometimes struggle to hear God’s voice in this modern world? Would you like some space for yourself?
If so, why not join us for a weekend retreat in beautiful Wistaston Hall, Crewe. Spend a couple of days listening to your own thoughts and feelings. At Wistaston Hall you will have the opportunity to share your journey with a director several times during the weekend. These meetings will help you notice the reality of God’s presence and activity in your life. One weekend won’t transform anyone’s life, but it sets the stage to develop an inner solitude. One that can stay with you, independent of where you are, what you are doing and whom you are with.
For more information, or to book a place on the retreat, please contact: Ronan Lavery, March 9th-11th 2012 Oblate Partners in Mission 14 Quex Rd, Kilburn, £50 per person London NW6 4PL. Email: [email protected] (Full board, residential) Tel: 020 7624 7296 Summer Camp 2012
30th July- 3rd August 2012 This summer, the Oblate Youth Service will host their Application forms are available from your local Oblate priest. third annual Summer Adventure Camp. Held in North Places are limited, so get your application in soon! Wales, this 5 day camp has proved to be a great For more information about the camp, contact: opportunity for young people aged 12-14 from all Anne Fegan on: (+44) 0131 554 2482 over the province to get to know young people from E-mail: [email protected] other Oblate parishes, and to explore elements of Or Ronan Lavery on: (+44) 020 7624 7296 their faith- all while taking part in outdoor activities. E-mail: [email protected].
The cost of the camp is £180 / €195.
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 14 “It was high time I thought of extricating myself from that innumerable throng of tasks of every kind that overwhelms me spiritually and physically and came on retreat to apply myself seriously in the matter of my salvation by carefully going over all my actions.”
St Eugene de Mazenod – Retreat notes, May 1818
What’s Happening in Crewe
Lenten Weekend Retreat Easter Triduum 2 - 4th March 2012 5 - 8th April 2012 In a quiet environment, these days we are invited Celebrate the Easter Ceremonies in the context of to discover and deepen our relationship with Jesus. a retreat. During the three days there will be times The retreat will include the celebration of the of silence and opportunities for sharing. Eucharist, the opportunity for the sacrament of Reconciliation, input and time for individual reflection. The Oblate Retreat Centre Staff are also available to help you in organising your own retreat, meeting or conference. A chaplaincy service can be Lenten Day Retreats provided on request. Wednesday 7th March - Tuesday 13th March - Thursday 29th March These days are suitable for parish groups, prayer groups and individuals who are looking for a quiet and reflective day within the Holy Season. The programme will include the celebration of the Contact: Sr Catherine Lavery or Fr Martin Moran, OMI Oblate Retreat Centre Eucharist, the opportunity for the sacrament of Wistaston Hall, Wistaston, Cheshire, CW2 8JS Reconciliation, a talk and quiet time. Tel: +44 (0) 1270 568 653 +44 (0) 1270 650 776 Each day begins with Registration and Coffee at Fax: 10.00am and finishes at 4.00pm. Email: [email protected] www.oblateretreatcentre.org.uk
Return to Contents Page Oblate Connections 15 Upcoming Events The theme of the Synod to be held later this year in Rome will be the call for a New Evagelisation. Our baptism calls each of us to share in the life and mission of the Church. To help us deepen our awareness of this call the following events organised by the Partners in Mission team.
Welcoming into the Church Oblate Summer School 2012 – The ‘Magic’ of the Gospel: With Fr. Frank Morrisey OMI How we Know & Share What's Really True May 3rd - 4th 2011 – Wistaston Hall, Crewe. With Fr. Eugene King OMI Over the last number of years Fr. Frank has explored Module 1: 20th-22nd July, Module 2: 23rd-27th July the many challenges facing those engaged in parish life. Those who have attended the various workshops “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, have been inspired by his presentations. We are once baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the again delighted to be able to welcome back Fr. Frank Son and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to do all the and this year his focus will be on the Sacraments of things I have told you. And I am with you always, Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation & Eucharist). even to the end of the age.” (Mt 28:19,20). With these words, Jesus Christ, sent his disciples out to The call from the Pope for a “New Evangelisation” proclaim the Good News to the whole world. They challenges us to reflect on how we welcome people into were a small group who were called to be witnesses the Church today. This workshop will give practical of Jesus of Nazareth, his earthly life, his teaching, his support to help us understand the various different death and above all his resurrection. challenges we face to enable people feel fully apart of the community of the Church today. There will also A new evangelization is an invitation to make our faith be an open forum where participants will have an intelligible by communicating the source of hope. With opportunity to dialogue with a panel of “Contemporary so many challenges facing us we need hope to live in Pastoral Issues.” our world today. The content of this hope is “God, who has a human face and who ‘has loved us to the end’.” Father Frank Morrisey is an Ottawa-based Oblate, a For this reason, we cannot selfishly keep for ourselves professor and former dean of Canon Law at the Oblate the words of eternal life. They are destined for each run University of Saint Paul. A gifted speaker and author and every person. As St. Paul reminds us, “how are of over 300 articles, he has served as a Consultor for they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated life in And how are they to hear without a preacher?” (Rom 10:14) Rome and is a Judge in the Canadian Appeal Tribunal for the adjudication of marriage cases. He is a strong This year’s Summer School will explore the: who, what, advocate for the rights of those engaged in pastoral when, where and how of the call to a New Evangelisation. ministry and all who work to build God’s kingdom. It will be an opportunity for us to pause and reflect on how we can engage at a personal level with the wonder and magic of the Good News and grounded If you are interesting in taking part in either event in this we can, in the words of St. Eugene, be ready please speak to your local Oblate or contact to “leave nothing undared for the Gospel.” Fr. Lorcán O’Reilly OMI, at the address below
If you would like to share your thoughts or ideas with us please contact: Fr. Lorcán O’Reilly OMI, Partners in Mission Office, Denis Hurley House, 14 Quex Road, London NW6 4PL or email [email protected] Please visit our website: www.oblatefamily.info Return to Contents Page