N° 1 JANUARY / APRIL 2017

INQUIRY INTO THE CANOSSIAN WORLD South-East Asia and Australia

REPORTAGE FROM THE PHILIPPINES Adolescents on the move

GRAPHIC NOVEL Lazy eye Vita Più has been renewed; news about Canossian Life: Canossian life is keeping up with the times, taking interest in new means of communication and broadening 90 years of communication vita its horizon beyond the communities of the Canossian Sisters, focusing attention on emergencies in the world HAPPY NEW YEAR 2017! più reported by mass media. The role of women in South-East Asia, migrant phenomenon in the Dear Friends, our family, urging many to solidarity Mediterranean, inter-religious dialogue, with the beginning of the New Year and commitment so that all may have a formation and education of children we shall resume our communication more dignified life. It has been a means and youth, the poor who risk dying in through ‘Vita Più’, our periodical, that for an authentic culture of encounter. total abandonment, those who have had been suspended for one year, as we Since 1987 its name is ‘Vita Più’ and everything and those who have nothing. felt the need to reflect on the new look we intend to keep this name as a sign Again, destruction caused by natural disasters and the effort to rebuild areas we wanted to give to this magazine, of continuity, while working at the and communities. These are some of part of the tradition of our Institute. restyling demanded by the change of the stories told in this issue of Vita Let us briefly go through the stages of times. VITA PIÙ Più, the 4-monthly magazine of the its history. I hope that ‘Vita Più’ may help us to Canossian General Curia which, from In 1927 it was started under the name broaden our horizons, our interests, January 2017 begins a new journey, ‘Vita Canossiana’. During all this time, and our knowledge of other realities, N. 1 - JANUARY / APRIL 2017 taking advantage of new forms of nearly1 one century, it was meant9 to opening2 us up to a greater sharing7 communication, from films to tweets foster communication among ourselves, of our experiences and to keep that 2 Autorizzazione Trib. di Roma without neglecting the reading of a good 3 with all the people and friends union so dear to our Foundress, in the N. 52/87 del 6 febbraio 1987 book. throughout the world, with those who concrete reality of our time. OWNER Casa Generalizia delle Figlie della Vita Più proposes to recount, using know us, follow us and are one with We never cease to ‘be surprised’ by the Carità Canossiane simple language and in direct us, feeling interest for our family and strength of the Charism handed down MANAGER Paola Pierotti GRAPHIC DESIGN PPAN form, the daily effort of the Sisters who our apostolic works in the 33 nations to us by Magdalene, that keeps being so EDITORIAL TEAM PPAN operate in the missions through their where we work especially among the fruitful. COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT OF THE hidden work among the poorest, most poor. I am happy to wish all of you a year CANOSSIAN INSTITUTE 2 0 1 7 the simple life of those who dwell in the Sandra Maggiolo (Reference Councillor), In these years our periodical has rich in Hope. May each one of us Maria Grazia Bongarzone (Coordinator), peripheries of the world. changed names: ‘Vita’, ‘Vita Missioni become a giver of it through one’s Mauro Mugnai (Organization) Canossiane’, ‘Chime’, the quarterly availability and witness: The magazine of the Canossian Institute has been renewed in concept and review in English, that lasted 5 years. A Hope that is a gift and a sign of His graphics, with the desire to broaden It has also changed aspect, but it kept Presence in all of us, a Hope that each its reference point, to open dialogue its purpose, that of informing and one of us is called to live personally, with those who wish to know more strengthening communication among a Hope that we are all called to foster. of the Prophecy that animates the us all. This made us feel the unity of Happy New Year to everybody! , in continual spiritual deepening, able to humbly but courageously share the difficulty of living and finding hope. M. Annamaria Babbini Congregational Leader Paola Pierotti vita Index più

P. 33 Books

P. 6 Letter of our Foundress with a comment by Santina Marini P. 34 P. 36 Events MESSAGE CALENDAR

P. 10

P. 37 Personality ENZO BIANCHI

P. 24 Graphic novel PAGES OF LAZYLIFE EYE text by Monica Ricceri illustrations by Claudia Leontini

P. 38 Inquiry into the Canossian Foundation Canossian World contributions by Liliana Ugoletti News and Matteo Tagliabue SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND AUSTRALIA contributions by Evelyn Loyola, Stefania Danesi, Giancarlo Urbani P. 22 and Mauro Mugnai Reportage coverage by Alessandra Cantaluppi and Stefano Dell’Orto FOUNDATION vita più

a way to pull herself up and inspire others with Footsteps firm in faith confidence in difficulties. She faces a challenge by comment by Santina Marini often relying on human support. Letter of the Foundress Magdalene does not withdraw herself from her spiritual vocation. She listens with gentleness and firmness.It helps her to bring out the eading between the lines of a dense best of self, that reserve of energy that is a and regular correspondence with gift but requires real exercise of the interior Dearest daughter, Sisters responsible for houses recently life, in daily life as well as the most demanding […] two words […] speaking to you while holding my heart R founded (in 1808 Verona, 1812 moments of life. The best of self. This means that “ Venice, 1816 Milan), Magdalene allows us to “plus” of confidence and abandonment in God and with that real desire that I have, to see you holy. see her great preoccupation: helping the newly- who interiorly regenerates and makes us able to established communities to remain firm in faith, do great things, even in weakness, in trials and My dear daughter how much I long to see you more a basic requirement for the quality of fraternal in the exercise of feared responsibility. Starting abandoned in God, more detached from the human comforts relationships and of evangelical witness. This from greater familiarity with the Lord, heart of means faith lived according to the logic the spiritual life, a more meaningful affective and more filled with confidence, but real and total in the of the Incarnation, amidst the inevitable freedom regarding others is possible, on which Lord. Remember that the one who hopes more will receive contradictions of the times, putting one’s our insecurities and frustrations tend to rest. more. You now see that you were worried with fear that trust in the Lord who always comes towards Magdalene seems to tell her dear Mincola: I am Elena would have to travel, and God has restored her to us, accompanies us, helps us to see in apparent with you, my dear. I will always be, just as I have failures of life, the possibility of doing good always been, with you. But you must try to be health. Now you fear that if lady Antonietta comes for a few following his example; a particular way of seeing better, wiser, able to stand on your own feet, while days, she will be disgusted with the Institute, and you will see that God will enlighten the parish priest and what he will decide will end up to turn out the best. CANOSSA, EP III/1 PP. 492-493 You feel the weight of the works, and in this I sympathize LETTER 1256 with you and, if I could fly to Milan in these days to assist IT’S WORTHWHILE 6 you, I would do so gladly. But remember that you are not 7 TO DOMENICA worth two coins of material to make the image of your ENTRUSTING OURSELVES, FACCIOLI Spouse, yet you say that you are the spouse of the Crucified. (VERONA 19.02.1822) Therefore, if this must be good, I too hope that you will truly INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE be. It is worthwhile that you think about having to keep him company in his sufferings and burdens if you want to obtain the crown that he is keeping ready for you. ourselves, others, our ministries, in the Church you lean solely on the Lord. Try to be “freer”, Hence, have courage my dear daughter, abandon yourself in and in the world; this is an exercise that gives that is “more holy”. This is the secret of interior wings to our freedom and makes us strong serenity and security in doing things. the Lord and don’t doubt that he will certainly assist you. in weakness. A “greater measure” of detachment This is the attitude that, free from anxiety, Control yourself as much as you can and try to take care of from human help and a “greater measure” of trust is able to perceive the chance of doing all the yourself. Don’t be scrupulous to take something hot in bed and abandonment in God, characteristics of faith good possible at the present moment, without in the morning. Above all be of good cheer, trust in God and that Magdalene wants to see shine out in Mincola “burdening ourselves with past, present and (Domenica Faccioli) and in all her Daughters of future crosses.” don’t wish to carry the past, present and future cross being Charity. Magdalene wants us to be adults, free and ourselves so very small that it is enough to carry the cross of Letter 1256; we are in Milan. Elena Bernardi, courageous, thanks to our faith. Women of great everyday. just 30, is the Superior of the house and finds it relationships because we are able to meet hard to face her responsibility, especially that of the challenge (able to measure ourselves) in formation. Her excessive sensitivity forces her to our personal relationship with the Lord. Women Although unworthy, I will not forget to pray for you, do the stop for a moment, to distance herself from the of great interior life, able to cultivate a space same for me… I leave you in the most holy heart of Mary. community and regain composure. Domenica of solitude within necessary to bring forth that Faccioli, her faithful support, is a valid reference dream, that promise, the great things God alone point for the community and the young Sisters can do with us, in our personal lives, for the good in formation. Apparently sure of herself, she is of the poor. Magdalene knows by experience what ” really very anxious and a little stubborn. She it means to “fully trust” the Lord. So many years concentrates on things and wants them done of uncertainties, sufferings, projects started and to perfection! She uses all her energies to keep never realised, despite everything. On the pages of things under control, but she can’t. She worries, history, she wrote, with great awareness and joy: Your most affectionate Mother, she complains, she is discouraged. She is sincere God alone. He guides our lives. It is worthwhile Magdalene, Daughter of Charity when she says she can’t make it. She can’t find trusting in Him for the future …ours. PAGES OF LIFE

PAPUA NEW GUINEA, AUTUMN 2016 welcoming celebration for the new Cardinal, Sir John Ribat INQUIRY

THE CANOSSIAN WORLD

Inquiry The Canossian World

he Canossian sisters exchange stories, inform and communicate with one another. In being faithful to T the commitments taken at the end of the XVI General Chapter in 2014, with a program to be realized by 2020, the BY PAOLA PIEROTTI Institute of aims to actively involve all the Sisters throughout the world in the process of discernment by translating its commitment in education, evangelization and witness of life. Hence, the Gospel becomes incarnated and writes history. From the various corners of the world, the Canossian sisters share their daily lives, recognize the emergencies, the priorities, the outcomes, while building something every day for the people (they serve). In 2016, the Canossian Institute promoted two international seminars, one in Rome for the neo-Latin speaking communities (30 March-8 April) and one in Jakarta for the English-speakers (19-28 September). Present at the first seminar were the Provincial Councils of Argentina-Paraguay, Brazil, Western and Central Africa and 10 Italy, as well as the Delegations of Angola-Sao Tomè and Europe. They were called to confront the theme “Vita Profetica: Comunicazione e gestione oggi”. Present at the second seminar held in Indonesia were members of all the Provinces of South East Asia and North America and the Delegations of Australia and Andhra Pradesh. Their topic was “Prophetic Life. New Challenge: communication and management today”. At this last event, ten mission stories were collected. They focused on how the Canossian communities respond to the urgent needs of the people, particularly the recurring natural calamities in the Philippines and the promotion and defense of women especially in those realities that don’t accept feminine autonomy. SOUTH-EAST ASIA AND AUSTRALIA INDIA P. 12 JAPAN P. 16

PHILIPPINES P. 17 HONG KONG P. 18 MALAYSIA P. 19

SINGAPORE AND MYANMAR P. 2 0 AUSTRALIA P. 21 INQUIRY vita THE CANOSSIAN WORLD più India, from health care to visiting the prisoners Schools, work programs and hospitals A ray of hope for a better future We are a network; together we can make a difference

India consists of a collection of to be able to uproot poverty it languages, religions and social, political is necessary that individuals and economic cultures that are very become aware of their reality and different from one another. Daily life autonomous in making decisions. They further assist in the care of the and religious experiences share a They must know their rights and sick and accompany those affected fundamental role in shaping Indian have access to resources to sustain by drugs and tuberculosis in centres attitudes and life in general. their growth. We must know how to of government analysis, as well as In the last decades, India has shown an collaborate with other organizations distributing clothing and blankets for extraordinary growth and development that care for the very poor, creating the winter. In the health care centres, in progressing as never before in synergies and mobilizing resources assistance is also given to women its history. The fact remains that for a social change. The exchange unable to conceive. The Canossian many socio-political and economic of information on the challenges, sisters visit the villages to provide problems still render the situation very experiences and goals is of fundamental health care information to women problematic for the population. importance. For this reason we have and children in the areas of hygiene, communicable diseases and on the importance of visiting a doctor during pregnancy and for breastfeeding. In the vast region of North India one The pastoral visits in the prisons can observe unsustainable social, civil (three times a week) are important 12 and economic conditions of life. There for alleviating the difficult living 13 is no work and women often live in a conditions. The sisters pray together state of exploitation. There is an urgent with the prisoners, celebrate need for reform and education for the different festivities and conduct whole population. various activities such as dressmaking, The Canossian sisters dedicate learning to draw and painting, using themselves to education, health care, the typewriter and the computer, The Canossian Mothers arrived in extended the network of contacts the support of women and to better the woodwork, and for everything also India 130 years ago and immediately without differences of caste, faith conditions of life in the prisons. providing the necessary material. began to open schools, hospitals and religion. Thanks to their help we They provide (basic) education for poor In the villages, government and centres of development, with have had the possibility to organize children and, after being tested, these officials are invited (to visit) the aim to educate and defend the various activities such as self-help are inserted in the State’s education giving them the opportunity of whole population, in particular, groups, professional courses, work system. The Sisters celebrate with starting projects for the benefit the most defenseless such as the programs, schools for poor children, them the festivity of Christmas, the of the community. The work of the women and children. The Province programs for domestic workers, widows (annual) Children’s Day and stimulate Canossian sisters reaches those who was restructured in three different and young people, relief aid, hospitals their learning through sport and find themselves at the margins of realities: North India, Central India and much more. We are grateful for games. They organize free health care education and health care, provides and South India. In Central India the generosity of many friends and centres that attend to the wellbeing work and assistance to the people to we find 26 communities and 17 of benefactors who support our mission and health needs of the population. live a dignified life in society. these are directly engaged with dedicated to the very poor and the those most in need. The local marginalized. May God be glorified in experience has taught us that all the good that is done in spreading God’s mission of love.

NORTH INDIA CENTRAL INDIA

22 COMMUNITIES by Lissy Mathew 26 COMMUNITIES by Esperança Vaz INQUIRY vita THE CANOSSIAN WORLD più Building in spite of the natural calamities Task force for the emancipation of women Encountering the divine in the poor The good of the poor is the only aim of the Institute

Leader of the Opposition, Ministers and Governors. But with the ingrained patriarchal mentality of Indian society, women are still victims, they are In the multicultural States of Andhra individual accompaniment of young humiliated, tortured and exploited, Pradesh and Odisha, the Canossian people towards the faith, and help crimes that, unfortunately in the last sisters have been offering their for the orphans, the elderly and the years, have been on the increase. message and their works for over 25 needy. All of this in the midst of a No place is safe for the women. years, thus crowning a courageous thousand difficulties such as language, They are abused at home, on the dream. And today, here we are in the customs, diet and the lack of support street, on public transport and in the Delegation of St in and recovery structures. Little by little workplace. The worst consequence of all South East India. The pioneers who these difficulties disappeared with the this is a lack of self-esteem, a sense of ventured in this unknown land saw intervention of divine Providence that being degraded and the rise of physical much suffering humanity, victims continued to be present through the One can recognize an elevated economic and emotional trauma. Many cases of life and became aware that the sisters. development in India that, however, is remain hidden (at least 80%) because missionary call of St Magdalene Our Delegation numbers 45 Canossian accompanied by a two-pronged growth they remain unreported due to shame. could not be deferred but had to be sisters led by Sr Josephine Nathan, evermore widening the gap between the This is why it is necessary to better the immediately accepted. delegate superior. In this mission, most living conditions of the rich from that of condition of women and to help them The response was concretized through of Magdalene’s dream is today a reality: the poor, becoming always poorer. All of become aware of their rights within the building of schools, hospitals, Jesus is known and loved in these this does not help to solve the situation the family and society and, in so doing, 14 dispensaries, mobile clinics; through two States, always threatened of women, everywhere discriminated bring about equality between the 15 by natural calamities. Great and objects of violence, conditions that sexes and freedom in one’s life. Social missionaries, like the deceased Mother become dramatic at the lowest level. communication and publicity have Imelda and Mother Maria Stucchi, The historical and cultural factors and an important role to awaken, inform, knew how to enact in these vast areas the many problems and restrictions of mobilize and motivate. the enterprising and passionate spirit the country, render the woman visibly In the Province of South India, of the Daughters of Magdalene, who backward. the community of Poonthura, in continues to spur them on towards However, the Indian women have made collaboration with the Archdiocese of those most in need and the poorest in some forward steps in almost 70 years Trivandrum, has reached this objective the remotest villages. of the country’s independence, but they by working with the widows, single The day begins with its singular still have to struggle against much and abandoned women and single freshness / Numerous are the discrimination in a nation dominated mothers to improve their condition of hidden blessings that have to be by males and their resistance against life and of work, and by influencing revealed / Bringing the message of the betterment of women. Thanks to the government with demonstrations, support programs for women, centers the unconditional love of God / We, these steps, women today participate in protests, petitions. of instruction for poor children, daughters of Magdalene / Are truly the areas of education, sport, politics, The sisters committed to the financial assistance to families, happy and zealous to give and give / communication, art and culture. They emancipation of women in society nutritional and medical assistance And for this reason our delegation story are involved in the various sectors of are stimulated by the words of St for the victims of AIDS through / Will always finish with the phrase… civil service, science and technology by Magdalene “the good of the poor is the ”To be continued”. also occupying prestigious roles such only aim of the Institute”. as those of President, Prime Minister,

SOUTH-EAST INDIA SOUTH INDIA 8 COMMUNITIES 22 COMMUNITIES by Vincy Thankachan and Suni Victor by Deepa George INQUIRY vita THE CANOSSIAN WORLD più Canossa House in Japan: a friendly ear Philippines: formation, protecting An alternative to the working style of life without pause the environment and love for the family A joyous and prophetic presence

The economic wellbeing has brought the society towards a style of life based This year the Canossian Mission Presently, the Philippines are in a on continuous work with disastrous celebrates 62 years of missionary precarious and delicate situation, both consequences for the personal, social activity in the Philippines. We want political and economic. As Canossian and religious life. to live with passion, patience and sisters we are aware of the need to Suicide continues to be a way perseverance the witness of life of facilitate and accelerate change and out that is very common. New Magdalene to make Jesus known progress among the weaker levels uncomfortable situations are also and loved among the most poor and to of the population. We participate linked, as in the rest of the world, to look to the future of the Province with creatively and constructively to immigration and the lack of language hope and trust. the development of the people skills in Japanese that causes grave through our schools, activities, parish difficulties in the integration of migrant presence, health services, social and The Canossian Mothers arrived in children in the school system. spiritual centres and other various Japan in May 1951. They began “Canossa House” in Tokyo is a point of activities. All of this can sensitize their activities by opening infant and welcome for young people and adults. It and motivate young women in the secondary schools in various parts of is a gathering place for prayer meetings, various stages of preparation to our the country. They participated in the for formation courses and for listening life of consecration, by preparing them life of their parish communities by to anyone who needs “a friendly ear”. to face with courage the requests for collaborating with the parish priests in Since last year, in particular, we try help and support that, ever more the areas of evangelization, catechesis to participate in the Diocesan youth insistently, come from a people in 16 17 and assistance to the sick. From the ministry by contributing to the various difficulty. We participate with the arrival of the first missionaries, the activities offered. The young people political authorities and with the ONG social and political milieu of Japan has meet on the first Saturday of every within our schools, in health care, in changed dramatically. The country, month to share on the Sunday Gospel religious activities, in the process of devastated and torn apart by the war, and to celebrate the Eucharist, as well reunification of the family and cottage was able to rise again in affirming itself as an obligatory fraternal meal. industries that can generate work and globally as an economic and cultural For the new year, we are planning four livelihood. We also ensure that the power. big events in Vocational Youth Ministry, directives given by the government do The economic development of Japan, among them an experience of voluntary not compromise in particular the life however, was not accompanied by an service in the areas affected by the great and human dignity of the women. adequate growth in religious life. The earthquake of 2011. To our formation program on Christian Church experienced a marked decrease We hope that from these activities with The Filipino people, characterized by values have been added themes linked not only among the consecrated but also the young people there will emerge new the heavy burden of immigration, have to the protection of the environment among the laity, in spite of the entry vocations that will allow us to address a very low average age. The people and to love for the family. of foreigners that has renewed the with greater impact the many situations are particularly diverse, ethnically We like to remember a concrete vigor of many parish communities. of poverty and marginalization. and culturally, and live with a large example of our activity. Following disparity in the distribution of wealth, the destruction caused by the a difficult political situation and the hurricanes, two housing projects have nightmare of great natural disasters been completed that have enabled such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions a good number of families to have a and hurricanes. comfortable and secure home.

JAPAN PHILIPPINES

4 COMMUNITIES by Valeria Martinez 18 COMMUNITIES by Anna Haydee Librojo INQUIRY vita THE CANOSSIAN WORLD più Hong Kong: participation is built around the elderly Malaysia, a pastoral convention for an ecclesial conversion Love is creative and we are instruments of God’s love Dialogue spreads to other religions

The formation of the sisters is an The fourth Pastoral Convention of the and it has become extremely clear the essential element for this service. Malaysian Peninsular (PMPC) takes need for an integral evangelization We foresee some updating sessions place every ten years and is a meeting for the minority Christians. These to know new forms of poverty among of religious and laity. The object of the emergencies spur us on with renewed the elderly, and for more detailed convention, during which meals, prayer strength and solicitude towards the information on the resources and the and work are shared, is to gather the necessity of an ecclesial conversion. initiatives made available by the social people of God in a spirit of prayer, of To reach this goal it is not only services. discussion and of discernment for the necessary to be united in Christ, The supports offered to the people must good of the local Church. in the Word and in community but be concrete, in the hope that with time The fourth PMPC took place in also to promote the missionary they can evolve into a strong and October and among the delegates were dimension and the vision of the lasting relationship of friendship. also present the Canossian sisters various communities by relying Being is as important as doing. Love representing the three dioceses of on the basic Christian communities. is always creative and we pray to be Malaysia. It was a great spiritual Ever more urgent becomes the need instruments of God’s love towards these experience. During the course of their to reach out to the faithful of other The Province of Regina Martyrum of needy people. interventions, the three bishops shared religions in order to widen the dialogue Hong Kong has been the first mission All of this can become a way to evaluate on the themes of spirituality, the through celebrations and ecclesial land of the Institute, but now is in our resources and offer a beautiful realities of Malaysia and on being a events, by being more inclusive and to crisis due to the decrease of vocations gift of love to our Saint Magdalene. Church of communion. build bridges everywhere to spread the and the ageing of its members. In spite We could involve the students of our Reign of God. Most of the delegates also 18 of this, our mission to make Jesus Canossian schools, the staff of our voiced the importance of evangelization 19 known and loved remains alive. To hospital, the Lay Canossians, the through the means of communication, serve the poor is our commitment and alumni and students. particularly useful for consolidating we want to witness to this courageously This project is in fact still in the phase the dialogue with the young people of and generously in responding to the of being planted; the shoot has still today. needs of the poorest, in solidarity with to sprout. Entrusted to the care of In conclusion, what was underlined them. the Virgin Mary, may this small seed by citing Teilhard de Chardin and his Within our community we have produce abundant fruits. book “The Divine Milieu”, was the established a commission to identify need for growth in purity of faith, of and coordinate projects that will Malaysia is facing various realities prayer, of trust and action. It has been benefit the needy. The first of these that are all important and demanding, a privilege for all the delegates Sentire concerns the ever increasing number such as the spreading of Islam, the cum Ecclesia, that is, to think and feel of elderly who are in difficulty (parish growth of inequality between the with the Church. communities have been a great help in rich and poor due to globalization, identifying them). the increase of corruption, and the The Caritas assistants took us lack of religious liberty. All of this under their wings during their risks the erosion of evangelical values home visitations to offer them some concrete help.

HONG KONG MALAYSIA

11 COMMUNITIES by Lucia Cheung 7 COMMUNITIES by Margarete Sta Maria INQUIRY vita THE CANOSSIAN WORLD più Moral education and spiritual formation in Singapore and Myanmar The refugees’ crisis in Australia The alternative to “win at every cost” An open door for those in need

Singapore is a state-city in South East presence to soften the mentality to the refugees waiting to know their Asia. It is economically rich, stable of “winning at any cost” so as to future. and secure. It is composed of various avoid superficial replies to life’s Many try to suicide to avoid being ethnic groups and various religions. problems. All of this will be very sent back. Often, to those who The governing party has been able useful also for the new communities have left everything, there is to provide excellent services such as in Myanmar, a country in which little to offer except comfort at accommodation, education, social education is by now considered of being visited by someone prepared to and health services. “Myanmar” is a primary importance. listen and to encourage them. Once rising star”, a country rich in natural In our mission, we try to be continually they receive asylum and a house, resources although in needs to adapt attentive to the invitation of the Spirit, the families still need help to live in itself with appropriate infrastructures whether in Singapore or in Myanmar, a new country and to integrate in to the fast growth of other nations to be able to promote the good of the the local community. The Canossian and so provide the population the people we serve. For this reason, in our One of the most outstanding challenges sisters try to help them link with the possibility to grow and to develop. communities, we are systematically that Australia is facing is its response social services available, collect funds For prosperous Singapore, there is the working to promote in people a to what by now is a constant influx for the shopping, distribute clothing urgent need of a profound mystical religious conscience through an of refugees that are seeking asylum and objects for the house donated by authentic dialogue that sees involved on our shores. In the two years of various communities. The sisters also our lay collaborators. 2015 and 2016, the Australian accompany them to court, help them to This attitude of openness and research government has given refuge to insert in the local Church and prepare 20 will help us to better our assistance to more than 25 thousand refugees them for the sacraments. They also 21 the needy and to initiate new projects and has announced that it will receive visit the sick or simply share in their in Singapore and in Myanmar. another 12 thousand who have fled joys and sorrows. Other sisters are In line with our mission, we try to Syria, (over and above those who have involved in the teaching of the English increase and integrate our services fled Iraq, Afghanistan, Myanmar, language, essential for integrating in in infant, primary and after school Somalia and El Salvador). These people the Australian society, and through education. We propose to provide for have undertaken dangerous journeys, their sharing in some areas of the young people, in an efficient centre of often fatal. For the women and young refugees’ lives. It is a simple style but assistance for tiny tots and students. girls there is a high risk of being very precious for helping them not to With this we hope to establish a sexually abused. lose hope in spite of the difficulties model of inclusive education. Thousands of people live in conditions and the sufferings they experience. Also our small community of sisters in of extreme deprivation, waiting to know They meet someone who loves them Myanmar is responding to the urgent their refugee status. Their situation and comforts them and does not need of a holistic formation that focuses is serious and painful, uncertain and consider them simply a number to on the moral and spiritual education of precarious, even anxious, in fear of arrive at or surpass. While the reply children and young people through the being sent back and endure heavy of Australia to the refugees’ crisis still formation of educators in the villages, reprisals. The Canossian sisters try to seems uncertain, the Canossian sisters in school camps and through the alleviate the pain by providing support try with determination and generosity weekly parish catechesis, retreats and to open the door to the needy. sessions of spirituality.

SINGAPORE AND MYANMAR AUSTRALIA 7 COMMUNITIES 7 COMMUNITIES by Janet Wang, Marilyn Lim and Christina Yeo by the Sisters of the Australian Delegation vita più Adolescents travelling in the world Exchange between the schools of Monza and Brescia and the Philippines by Alessandra Cantaluppi and Stefano Dell’Orto

Everything began from an intuition, or maybe from a have lost their importance, among dream: to create a web of interchange among the Canossian these the Faith. We have touched with Schools in the world. Then the idea, perhaps because it was our hands a faith lived in practice, for planted in good soil, has grown little by little, and finally the example, the recitation of the rosary at first fruits have arrived. the beginning of lessons, but above all Let us begin from the beginning. And the beginning was a faith that sustains and gives meaning R the word “NIC” (NetworkE Internazionale Canossiano, to life”. International Canossian Network) -one word - to indicate On their return flight to Italy, the the team (coordinated by the Canossian Foundation) that students were accompanied by the has promoted and developed the idea. Soon some teachers classroom, during meals, in the sport principal of Canossa Academy, of the Canossian schools in Trent and Verona went to fields and in moments of community Professor Medel Magbuhos, who was Hong Kong. It was the summer of 2015. Then was the turn prayer, supported by the teachers warmly welcomed at the Canossa of two other teacher-‘explorers’. They left from the schools and the sisters of Canossa Academy Campus of Brescia on 20 October, of Brescia and Monza for the Philippines in January community. “We felt important for and on 21 October at the Institute 2016. the first time”, declare in unison the “Maddalena di Canossa”, Monza. The The object of these journeys was to verify the feasibility girls from Monza, “even if in a secure visit to the Institute at Monza was 22 for realizing visits and training periods for the students building and cared for by the sisters, particularly moving and significant. 23 of Italian Canossian high schools, in overseas Canossian living by ourselves and having to work Principal Magbuhos also received schools in the Philippines but also in other south-east Asian out the running of the house with tributes from the local Alderman, countries such as Singapore and Hong Kong. organizing our time – a pleasant and Rosario Montalbano who, with his It was easier than expected. Hence, on 18 August 2016, stimulating adventure, not without its presence, sealed the twinning between six students from the Institute “Maddalena di Canossa” of struggles. Lipa City and the city of Queen Monza and eleven students from the Canossa Campus in Viewed from the perspective of Teodolinda. Brescia were receivedP by the Canossa AcademyO in Lipa City teaching,R as well as cultural, human T (a city of almost 300,000 people, 80km south of Manila, the and spiritual, these were two very capital of the Philippines). They stayed there till 17 October, intense and rich months. Besides the living within Canossa Academy and sharing in everything studies and other activities proposed of the life of almost 2,000 students, including the school by the school, the Italian students uniform. carried out teaching activities in the Canossa Academy hosts all kinds of schools and the Italian infant section of Canossa Academy, students who, in June 2016 had completed the 3rd year in and voluntary work among some Human Sciences, frequented the courses at the Academy particularly needy families who live corresponding to those in Italy, particularly the sessions adjacent to the school. Therefore, for English, human sciences and religion. During the two not simply a school experience but months they stayed in a separate building within the campus something much deeper. Among the but this did not prevent them to participate in the numerous gifts that we bring home, the most activities, whether cultural or recreational, promoted precious is certainly the rediscovery by the school, living side by side with their peers, in the of manyA values that in our societyG E 24 NEWS 25

BEST WISHES POPE FRANCIS

Pope Francis has reached 80 this year and during his trip to Bolivia. He launched his in Rome he concluded the Jubilee Year revolution of tenderness in his Encyclical of Mercy, “the lintel that sustains the Evangelii Gaudium and in 2015 he shed Church’s life.” Over the last few months a spotlight on creation and the care of our the Pope visited Lampedusa, stopped in the common home with his Encyclical Laudato refugee camp of Saint Sauveur at Banqui sì’ in which he described the problems of (Republic of Central Africa), went to the climate change, pollution, poverty and Greek island of Lesbo to listen to and pray evil in the world by promoting the idea of with the victims of migration. integral ecology. Pope Francis is a Pope who Last November, in Rome, he met, for the responds to messages with personal phone first time, various organisations (farmers calls. For his 80th birthday he received and fishermen, those living in baraccopoli, wishes from the whole world by means as well as street vendors, craftsmen of emails – not only – on 17th December and casual labourers), to strengthen the he received wishes through his hashtag dialogue set up in Rome in 2014 and #Pontifex80. NEWS vita più Sir John Ribat: the first Cardinal in the land of Mystery by Evelyn Loyola

first Cardinal of Papua New Guinea underlines the Pope’s desire that Catholics all over the world receive the same attention. Once the Consistory in Rome was concluded, he returned to Papua New Guinea on 24th November, welcomed at the airport of Jackson by rejoicing crowds. Papua New Guinea, a nation of whales and mysteries, is blessed with natural beauty and resources, explored and yet to be explored, and is rich in cultural and religious traditions that well represent its population of about 7.8 million, speaking no less than 820 languages. The people wish to live a contented life but, over the centuries, tribal wars, ethnic hostilities, abuse of women, the elderly, widows and John Ribat met his people at Jack for evangelization through these 26 children, have caused destruction, fear Park to celebrate 50th anniversary ministries: coordination of the pastoral 27 and great suffering. of the Archdiocese of Port Moresby. care of the sick in the Diocese, services The first missionaries arrived in Papua About a thousand Catholics were and health education for the poor in New Guinea in the 19th century. present and a few members of other the city, in the peripheries and remote The news that Sir John Ribat, At present, there are 4 Archdioceses Churches, as well as representatives villages, coordination of education in Archbishop of Port Moresby and of the Government, the Diplomatic the Archdiocese. At present, 2 Sisters President of the Federation of Catholic Corps and the Diocese of Town’s Ville teach in the Sacred Heart Teachers’ Bishops of Oceania, was elected as EVEN IF PAPUA NEW GUINEA in Australia. In his message, Cardinal College, an institution that educates a Cardinal spread like wildfire on IS GEOGRAPHICALLY DISTANT Ribat said that “it is faith that has and trains teachers coming from and 9th October last. Cardinal Ribat, 59, FROM THE SEE OF PETER, united us all as Christians in destined for remote villages in Papua was ordained in 1985 as part of the MY NOMINATION MAKES ME Papua New Guinea”. The Prime New Guinea. Congregation of Missionaries of the FEEL VERY CLOSE TO Minister, Peter O’Neil, congratulated the new Cardinal saying, “we are very Sacred Heart. In 2000 he was made POPE FRANCIS. Auxiliary Bishop of Bereina, becoming proud of him. His nomination is well- its Bishop in 2002. In 2008 he became earned” and he greatly appreciated Archbishop of Port Moresby. He is the and 15 Dioceses in the Catholic “the extraordinary leadership of first Catholic Bishop of Papua New Church, which represent 27% of the the Cardinal in uniting not only Guinea and his nomination is the first population, while 70% are Protestants. the , but also the within the Missionaries of the Sacred The people are proud of their faith various Organisations of other Heart of Jesus. Cardinal Ribat says in Jesus Christ and the Constitution Churches in the country”. The that “even if Papua New Guinea is defines the country as a “Christian General Governor, Sir Michael Ogio, geographically distant from the Nation”. The aim of the Catholic thanked the new Cardinal for his good See of Peter, my nomination makes Church is to purify and transform relationships with the Government. me feel very close to Pope Francis”. culture thus helping it to receive the The Canossian Sisters were invited to He is sure that his nomination as the Gospel. On 27th November, Cardinal Papua New Guinea in 1982 to work NEWS vita più

DURING THE LAST DAYS OF 2016, THE VATICAN HAS RECOUNTED A WONDERFUL STORY that has revealed the Courtyard of the Parrot, an internal secret area of the Apostolic Palace, a precious example of decorated architecture. In the past, this place was a mystical garden 28dedicated to contemplation 29 and rest, inhabited by animals of every kind, among which parrots were predominant, the medieval symbol of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary. NEWS vita più The heart of Italy trembles, an area at high seismic risk Not just instruction, but formation for life Comment by a scientist of the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) ENAC at 26th edition of Job Orientation

by Stefania Danesi by Giancarlo Urbani seismologist of the INGV Coordinator ENAC Job Orientation

At 3.36 a.m. on 24th August 2016 an and volcanoes. As citizens, parents, earthquake of magnitude 6.0 struck the people of common sense we can choose centre of Italy, not far from Accumuli whether to wait passively for the next and Amatrice. From then on 30,000 disaster and count our dead, or try to tremors have been registered between implement measures and strategies for the Valle del Tronto and the Sibillini prevention. Mountains, some of which were very It often happens that a human disaster strong. The earthquake on 30th can provide the spur that renews our October at 7.40 a.m., of magnitude 6.5, personal and collective conscience. was the strongest felt in Italy, except This is now the right moment. for that of Irpinia in 1980. It caused An earthquake always arouses 299 victims, injured hundreds, caused great fear, reminding us of our thousands of people to leave their vulnerability. homes and greatly damaged public Orientation for formation and Inspired by the words of St. Magdalene and private buildings, factories, roads transformation: this formula attracted “…not only instruction but formation and much historical heritage. As more than 72,000 students, youngsters for life”, students and teachers from often happens, we saw people offering THERE IS A CRACK and parents to visit Job Orientation, the Canossian Schools for Professional 30 31 immediate help in such dangerous IN EVERYTHING, THAT’S HOW 26th national exhibition on career Formation had been working since circumstances. The organisation of THE LIGHT GETS IN. guidance, school, formation and work, September 2015 on an itinerary of this emergency is in the hands of held in Verona from 24th-26th creative ideas in view of their presence a woman, Titti Postiglione, fragile November 2016. ENAC (Canossian at Job Orientation developing the in appearance and yet concrete, direct, National Organisation, www.enac.org) theme of “transformation”. Just as human, grateful, able to perceive But this sense of vulnerability, if and our Professional Formation Schools combining ingredients and skills can details, stressed but solid; an example recognised, can be precious and fruitful. were present with a stand comprising transform materials and products, of deep humanity and awareness for It can re-awaken our conscience and 4 sections: Agrifood, Graphics, Fashion so the various specializations of all of us who have been able to work personal responsibility, it can generate and Wellness. Canossian professional formation together with her. It is not the first a wave of awareness. A few weeks ago The enthusiasm and creativity interweave together and develop, quake for the Sibillini Mountains, the Leonard Cohen died, a great Canadian of 90 students, 35 teachers and becoming a “training ground for Apennines, the whole of Italy. To stop poet, author of the famous song Canossian sympathizers was life”. The intention was to promote counting the dead we cannot ignore Halleluja. In one of his most famous demonstrated through fashion parades a certain identity and a common creating a mentality of prevention that works Cohen said, “There is a crack in and a forum on “Research and style characterized by the ability to eliminates cheap building material, everything, that’s how the light gets Formative Programmes”. During the experiment, innovate and operate. misleading information, the lack of in.” It is from here, from our shattered 3 days, the sparkling enthusiasm of This was achieved. This experience understanding risk. We no longer have certainties, experiences, failures, that the youngsters attracted thousands of was much more than an occasion for an alibi. Italy is at high seismic risk: light can enter. Not solely tragedies, visitors and evoked much appreciation advertising and promoting Canossian not one of the 7,998 cities and towns is disasters, darkness. for their “presence”, well noticed, as Professional Formation in Italy. A very exempt from the risk of earthquakes well as the message they wanted to meaningful experience of collaboration communicate. and sharing ideas was made helping The fact of being there was the result us to know each other better, both of long-term preparation, not leaving professionally and personally. Job anything to chance, so as to increase Orientation is now over, but formation the feeling of being involved. for life still carries on. NEWS vita più A new mentality on immigration Data from a Statistical Dossier on Immigration 2016 Books Two arguments have characterised The pension contributions have the presentation of a dossier on reached a figure of 10.9 billion Euros “It is quite the opposite [….] saying immigration elaborated by the IDOS in 2015 while the balance between Centre for studies and research costs for immigration (14.7 billion) and that internet should be evangelized and presented in Rome on 27th revenue (16.9 billion) is positive; this just like any other human activity [….] October 2016. The first underlines data goes against an interpretation of making the social network change from the urgent need for cultural change the phenomenon of migration as being being a place of “connection” into a considering immigration no longer as a an unsustainable cost for the State. place of “communion”. These remarks “phenomenon of emergency” but rather It is necessary to change mentality, of Antonio Spadaro point out the as a “structural phenomenon” that according to Mgr. Lorenzo Leuzzi, requires policies aimed at inclusion of Auxiliary Bishop of Rome, from a pressing need of the Church to adapt immigrants in the work, cultural and “Theology of nomadism”, migration more its method of communication to social spheres. The second regards the seen as a danger, to a “Theology of the new challenges proposed by the economic contribution that immigrants growth”, immigration seen as a chance social media. As with any other ambit make to Italy, both in terms of creation for growth, participation, dialogue and of human living, the web represents and development of commercial collaboration among different ethnic an opportunity where communication, activities and support of our welfare groups. system. evangelization and religious debate AUTHOR ANTONIO SPADARO cannot and must not be wanting. TITLE QUANDO LA FEDE SI FA SOCIAL “The distinction between real and

32 Poverty and social exclusion in Italy PUBLISHER EMI 2015 virtual, which some people frankly and 33 Synthesis of a report by Openpolis insistently propose, does not exist.”

The economic crisis that began in 2008 (+108.57%) due to work opportunities Peter van Breeman is a Dutch Jesuit. has involved Italy too, tripling the rate that, in reality, do not favour the re- Born in 1927, he is a priest with a of poverty among the age group 18-65 insertion of women after maternity (in in ten years. Italy working women with one child degree in Physics. He is the author Industrial policy which does not keep has reached 56.7% while in Denmark it of many books and among his recent pace with changes due to globalization is 81.5%). publications one is entitled The God and a costly but differentiated welfare Here are the figures that summarise who won’t let go. It portrays a journey system, have magnified the effects of the impact of the 2008 crisis according into the depths of love, forgiveness and the crisis, affecting especially young to Openpolis: God’s mercy that guides the reader in people and women. A recent study • 4.6 million people live in elaborated by Openpolis says that absolute poverty in Italy becoming aware that He helps us in 78.5% of expenditure is attributed to • +140.61% increase in poverty every choice in life. At a time when pensions while the amount for social between 2005 and 2015 nothing seems to be permanent, only support for families, children and the • 28.7% of the population risk God’s love is never-changing. “God will right of a home is still at 6.5%. poverty or social exclusion in Italy in never leave us on our own, however Poverty among women has more 2015. miserable we are. God loves us in every than doubled between 2005 and 2015 AUTHOR PETER VAN BREEMEN moment of our lives and wants us to TITLE THE GOD WHO WON’T LET GO have life and joy in abundance.” PUBLISHER AVE MARIA PRESS 2001 contribution by Mauro Mugnai GRAPHIC NOVEL vita più

Lazy eye It’s winter in Lampedusa, a pale sun beautiful and symbolic; on their surface one imprisoned among the grey dense clouds, can see small signs made with sticking tape: TEXT BY MONICA RICCERI A STORY INSPIRED BY wishing to set itself free, to shatter its rays they look like scars from a battle and, really, THE FILM “FUOCOAMMARE” on the heart of that green land and its someone has declared war on them, a tender ILLUSTRATIONS BY CLAUDIA LEONTINI BY GIANFRANCO ROSI inhabitants, to pour its warmth on that blue war, instinctive, that of children who want and infinite sea, at least until it reaches to grow up, just like Samuel. the shore. Prickly pears reach up to the sky,

The blue sea of The migrants are our grandparents is colouring it. They set out becoming ever more towards our sea, blue, and red, why is that? arrive at our sea, red.

Place a bandage over the good eye and train the lazy eye. You will see far, Red? Red blood, the beyond the laziness of cost of the crossing? indifference, and the entrusting Where are the angels of oneself to the“angels” to save them? for comfort.

The angels! Don’t you know that Lampedusa is the half-way 34 land between the white 35 and the black?

The black? It’s out of place in our beautiful environment.The white? It doesn’t see. It has a lazy eye.

There they are, the black dots! They are alive: eyes for crying and for dreaming.

From afar I can only see a collection of black dots and I find it difficult to breathe… OUR sea!

You struggle to breathe!

Those black dots, alive or dead, are screaming in the sea. I hear them inside of me. What can I do? vita più JANUARY 2017 3RD – 9TH JANUARY 2017

ITALY AUSTRALIA Personality BALLABIO (LECCO) BRISBANE A tweet each day with Enzo Bianchi

PASTORAL YOUTH ANNUAL SEMINAR OF DELEGATION WORKSHOP “WE DESCENT” SISTERS IN AUSTRALIA Enzo Bianchi is Prior of the Community of Bose. In 1983 he founded the publisher Qiqajon which prints books on Biblical, Patristic, THIS YEAR’S THEME WILL BE “THE GRACE OF Liturgical and Monastic spirituality. In 2014, Pope Francis named BECOMING HOLY IN EVERY SITUATION – TH him as a Consultor of the Pontifical Council for the promotion 8 FEBRUARY 2017 EMBRACE WISDOM AND LIVE THE CHALLENGE of Christian Unity. As a great expert of communication and an OF THE CANOSSIAN RULES” attentive listener and speaker, Bianchi makes himself present in ITALY the media on this subject and others, speaking of “silence as an SCHIO (VICENZA) 11TH FEBRUARY 2017 essential element of life and communication.” The titles of some of 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAKHITA’S DEATH his publications are: Il Pane di ieri, Fede e fiducia, Ogni cosa alla BEST WISHES ITALY sua stagione, Dono e perdono, Spezzare il pane. Enzo Bianchi also VERONA communicates via Twitter. A CELEBRATION OF UNIVERSAL DIMENSIONS WITH SPECIAL ACTIVITIES THAT TRANSIT 2ND MINISTRY RE-READING THE CONVENTION If someone ages well, he is able to dance in When you have a goal in life you are able to THE WITNESS OF RECONCILIATION AND OF FLORENCE: FROM RELIGION TO FAITH FOR his heart with the art he has learned during cross a desert because the hope of reaching it EVANGELICAL FORGIVENESS IN ST. BAKHITA HUMAN FULLNESS life. gives you strength.

36 E V E N T S 37

25TH FEBRUARY 2017 CANONICAL VISITS OF

ARGENTINA THE GENERAL COUNCIL

DAY OF CHARISMATIC ANIMATION FEBRUARY 2017 FOR TEACHERS OF OUR SCHOOLS SINGAPORE/MYANMAR BEFORE BEGINNING THE SCHOOL YEAR MARCH 2017 MALASYIA The Gospel is like embers, often covered Negative solitude is that imposed or lived as with the ashes of churches; a breath of air is being in exile, but if it is chosen so as to live APRIL 2017 APRIL 2017 enough and the flames burn and illumine. with oneself, then it is blessed. CENTRAL WESTERN AFRICA UNITED STATES SAN FRANCISCO (CALIFORNIA) MAY 2017 ALBUQUERQUE (NEW MEXICO) ITALY

REGIONAL MEETING OF COMMUNITIES “Amazement and gratitude for the OF CHIHUAHUA AND ALBUQUERQUE SACRAMENTO, SAN FRANCISCO wonders God works in different AND VANCOUVER cultures.”

The General Council and the TH TH Provincial Councils will re-read and 5 APRIL – 5 MAY 2017 examine their fidelity to the Gospel, to the Charism and to mission PHILIPPINES respecting and valuing all cultures. A MONTH OF FORMATION FOR JUNIOR SISTERS Canossian Foundation

From small entrepreneurs to formation, our support continues for 310 communities

Since 2004, the Canossian Foundation Our initiatives, activities and services has been able to carry out projects for are carried out in relation to change. human and professional promotion Only together, walking hand in hand, They take care of all kinds of poverty in 310 Canossian communities all can we strengthen our observatory on over the world. Now is the time to social phenomena and frontline zones. report by Matteo Tagliabue invent a new future to meet needs and We cannot betray the intuition of anecdotes and knick-knacks bought as hopes for the continuation of these our Foundress. Her story is rich in Loving the poor is easy. Yes, certainly, as projects. “We must learn how to copy searching, intuitions and audacity tourists for our family and friends. long as they stay where they are and allow If you go to a mission you expect to see great ideas so as to be more creative in centred around a few strategic and us to observe them without disturbing us, love for the poor, but you cannot but be work and life.” The words of A. Kleon shared choices so as to reach out to without asking us anything and without astonished to see love shown to us, the rich. remind us of our responsibility. It is the weakest and most defenceless, upsetting too much our already complicated The truth is that the Canossian Sisters a journey into cultures, ethnic groups without the presumption of being able mechanism of feeling guilt in the western are not interested if you are poor, dirty and diversities, looking beyond the to do everything. The completeness of world, by showing off their situation outside or sick, just as they are not interested 38 39 seeds sown; it means continuing what we offer in the areas of formation, the normal media dedicated to them. if you are rich, fashionably dressed and a But honestly, once you have respected these to give of ourselves at this time social and health assistance, promotion little spoilt. simple rules, loving them is easy. Sr. Jessie, and all the Canossian Sisters of crisis, not solely economic, by of women and small entrepreneurs, I am now making my third experience trying to guarantee well-earned support in emergencies, finds a we met, welcomed us as if we were relatives in a Canossian mission. Having left and showered us with attention, even when serenity and wellbeing. Those most continual source of updating and aside Africa (for the moment), last summer we did not merit it, even when we did not vulnerable, like the refugees in El innovation through direct contact with I went to India with one of my friends and repay them, even when, I am tempted to say, Obeid (Sudan), those in the favelas those helped and our collaborators, so a group of students and ex-students from perhaps it would have been right to dedicate of Imperatriz (Brazil) and Tondo that the various needs and challenges the Canossian school in Monza. Once again, to the poor all that time and energy they (Philippines), are still in need of may be identified on a national and what amazed me was not the love that the dedicated to us during the two weeks we specialized care and attention. international level. Canossian Sisters showed the poor (no… spent there. they do not limit themselves to observing Let us start again “united in a Or perhaps they did just that. Perhaps the poor from their tiny windows on the we, too, are poor. Not in a material sense, network”, with the force of that world, taking a few souvenir photos and mustard seed, which is the smallest certainly, and yet we showed a poverty less then washing their hands with disinfectant obvious but more in need of cure. And the of seeds, but once grown, becomes a after having shaken them) but the love they Canossian Sisters recognized this and they great tree. This is our aim, the horizon showed to us: took care of it. to which the Canossian Foundation Perhaps this is why they are able to love so tends with courage, not just to be WE COME HERE FROM OUR easily and deeply anyone who appears before praised but to be valued for what it COMFORTABLE WORLD, SURE OF them. does. We want to progress “united in a network”, not simply making proposals OURSELVES, A LITTLE SNOB AND BECAUSE WE ARE ALL LACKING of cooperation. VERY MUCH MATERIALIST, ONE THING, OR ANOTHER, OR attached to our vision of the world and YET ANOTHER. (sorry to say) our wallet. We, who so by Liliana Ugoletti willingly return from that world full of And they take care of every kind of poverty. Message for the World Day of Peace 2017

As is traditional, I am signing this Message on 8th December, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception “ of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mary is the Queen of Peace. At the birth of her Son, the angels gave glory to God and wished peace on earth to men and women of good will (cf. Luke 2:14). Let us pray for her guidance. All of us want peace. Many people build it every day through small gestures and acts; many of them are suffering, yet patiently persevere in their efforts to be peacemakers. In 2017, may we dedicate ourselves prayerfully and actively to banishing violence from our hearts, words and deeds, and to becoming nonviolent people and building nonviolent communities that care for our common home. Nothing is impossible if we turn to God in prayer. Everyone can be builders of peace. ” 8th December 2016 Pope Francis

CASA GENERALIZIA DELLE FIGLIE DELLA CARITÀ CANOSSIANE

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