vol::5|no::3|May2003
for the dignity of human life “amid threatening forces and situations.” World Meeting Former Philippine Undersecretary of Social Welfare and Development inside Rosa Linda Valenzona defended 2 What Makes a Happy of Families: the intrinsic value of marriage and Marriage the family, not as mere social GOOD NEWS TO ENSURE THE FUTURE constructs but rather as parts of 3 ICCFM on human nature itself. Dominican International Events Father Fausto Gomez of the 4 Fires Special Pontifical University of Santo Tomas spoke of the relation between love 6 News Around and pro-life issues, “The family is a the World community of life and a community 12 In Memoriam of love—of love for life!” His Eminence Paul Cardinal Shan Kuo- Hsi of Taiwan spoke of the family’s role in combating the culture of death. Philippine Bishop Teodoro LINK Bacani emphasized the importance CALENDAR of renewal movements in the evangelization of the family. “The CONTINENTAL Lord raised up renewal movements MEETINGS in these times where families are XIII Latin American under attack,” he said. “Marital Encounter breakups are averted.” Italian July 3–6, 2003 His Eminence Cardinal Trujillo with Juan & Rosita Leon of Argentina, representing theologian Bruno Forte pointed out Santo Domingo de the ICCFM. the central role of evangelization Heredia, COSTA RICA within the Church, not only of those Theme: “Let Us HE FOURTH WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES on January 22 – who do not know Christ but also of Make of the CFM the 24, 2003, in Manila, Philippines, affirmed that the Christian family is those who live in once-Christian House and the the main bearer of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Bearing the countries where the Gospel has School of TT Communion” theme “The Christian Family: Good News for the Third Millennium,” the been forgotten. World Meeting acknowledged the family as more than just the object of the Another aspect of XXI Latin American Church’s pastoral care. Rather, it is a gift of God and the Church’s most evangelization expounded by His General Assembly effective agent of evangelization. For reasons of prudence, His Holiness Eminence Francis Cardinal Arinze July 8–9, 2003 Pope John Paul II could not grace this worldwide gathering he has personally of the Congregation for Divine San Juan de Santa page 3 Barbara, Alajuela, convened every three years since 1994. To manifest his continuing regard ! COSTA RICA and concern for the family, His Holiness sent as his personal Legate His Eminence Alfonso Cardinal Lopez Trujillo, President IV CFM European of the Pontifical Council for the Family. Past Presidents of MFC Congress Argentina Juan and Rosita Leon and Executive Vice-Presidents July 17–20, 2003 of CFM Philippines Rolly and Josie Mesa represented the Zagreb, CROATIA Theme: “The Family International Confederation of Christian Family Movements. as a Successful Life- To foster awareness and interest in the event, the Long Community” Philippines celebrated in 2002 a series of festivals highlighting family roles: the Festival of Fathers in March, the Festival of VI Asian Conference Mothers in May, the Festival of Youth in August and the Festival of the CFM Sept. 19–21, 2003 of Children in October. CFM members, led by Past National Bangalore, INDIA Presidents Loy and Trining Marquez, helped organize, actively Theme: “The supported and participated in the festivals. Christian Family: The World Meeting consisted of two Congresses held CFM Phils. participate to the world meeting of families. Challenges of the simultaneously: the International Theological Pastoral Congress Seated from left, Loy Marquez, Rolly Mesa, Baging Arguelles, Present Times” and the Sons and Daughters Congress. Tony Kosca, Bert Singzon, Danny Santos. Standing, Roger Dayan, Trining Marquez, Josie Mesa, Lin The International Theological Congress speakers Arguelles, Bie Singzon, Mely Santos, CFMer from Zamboanga, condemned the attacks on marriage and the family and argued Inday Pronstroller & Nora Panlasigui. 2 Bulletin of the International Confederation of Christian Family Movements WHAT MAKES A HAPPY MARRIAGE? A CHALLENGE TO FAMILIES
e hear and read so much about marriage breakdowns, where unhappiness in daily life becomes very hard to bear. Unhappy Wmarriages make news and often couples are driven to despair. The children are nearly always the innocent victims and the trauma of By Msgr. Charles G. Vella (Italy) divorce becomes a life-long wound. International Chaplain ICCFM
The media make money out of unhappy their acceptance of God’s will with joy. The Cross Marriage encounter marriages. The emphasis is on what breaks the is our only hope! I always have found as the best recipe the commitment of marriage: from sex, infidelity, money, This reminds me of the prophet Job, a just man golden rule of ME: conflict and many other evils. who feared God and knew no evil. He “cursed the · What unites us, comes from God Even in our teaching and pastoral approach day he was born”, yet through suffering he · What divides us, does not come from God. we often stress more the negative, than the received from God the gift of joy. To be happy he How true this is for every state of life: married, positive. What makes marriages click? had to shout: “I am tired of my life” (Job 1.1:3, 1- priesthood or religious? The pedagogy of Christ in the Gospel was 26). No millions can buy joy and you cannot buy joy positive and challenging. Though he cast the He accepted God’s will. for your kids. Just if the parents are happy, the condemned the Pharisees, His whole emphasis Happiness means being in a state of accepting, children will be happy. If not, they will live perhaps was love and the Beatitudes knowing and facing one’s identity. It is an interior in a golden cage of unhappiness. state of life, which the couple have to live individually We have to strive everyday to achieve a state What is happiness? and then in communion together. If one is happy of joy, happiness, serenity and serendipity. The happiness, or joy, that Jesus promises is and the other is sad, they will sustain, support and Happiness consists in acceptance and not the one of the world. Today happiness is often help each other. appreciation of every moment our life, whether at misunderstood and it is not the joy of Christ. He St. Augustine said: “You have created us for home, at the workplace or during our pleasure said to His apostles: “I leave you peace, but not the you, Lord, our heart is restless if it does not rest in time. We thank the Lord also for small blessing and peace of the world.” also when we have to embrace the We count as happiness Cross. “We see joy and suffering in what helps us to evade the Happiness means being the Face of Christ” (John Paul II). “If reality of life. Happiness is fun, we want to see the Face of Christ”, feasting, money, over-eating, in a state of accepting, knowing the Pope tells us, “we have to having all the consumer goods, contemplate His Face.” travel, a comfortable home and We do so through prayer and the so forth. Often drink, drugs and and facing one’s identity. Eucharist, and if possible some time sex are taken as a way how to spent in front of the Tabernacle to listen be happy. Happiness becomes something we want You”. Joy is resting in the arms of the Lord, loving to Jesus and to contemplate His Sacred Face. to buy, so as to escape sacrifice, suffering and Him with all our heart and loving our brethren (in self-denial. case of marriage, one’s spouse) as oneself. Only Challenge for CFM this can make a happy marriage, for if we are Many couples are frustrated, because though This is the present challenge for ICCFM and united in love to the Lord Jesus our heart will find they have it “all”, they are unhappy. They suffer CFM, if we have as the Pope urges us “to cast our comfort, serenity and joy. from depression, stress and despair. They want nets deeper” (Lc, 5, 4). The Pope invites us to If a couple does not have a full immersion in to be masters of their life and have the power to “look beyond” ( Duc in altum). This is what Jesus this spiritual, and we might add also psychological end their life on earth. What a pity! told Simon Peter and the fisherman. state, the marriage will not work. We now live in Happiness is a gift of the Spirit. Only as the I pray that all CFM’ers and chaplains will sow the “Me Generation” where what counts is the full poet Kahlil Gibran says: “Loving the fatigue of life, the seeds of spiritual joy and happiness in many liberty of the individual. We care less and less we can understand its most profound secrets.” families where there are tears of suffering, of about the other, even about the unborn and the Happiness is achieved through sacrifice. In separation, of divorce and at times of despair. children. We live in a society which is free from our “San Raffaele University Hospital”, in Milano We are to announce to these families the values and we delve in individualism, egoism, (1,400 patients), I come across many young and Gospel of Joy and Life, for Jesus has promised us power, self-interest, ambition and all that we think elderly patients whose life is one of suffering. His unending love. makes happy. What a delusion! However, they find the strength to accept the joy ICCFM and CFM should be the heralds of of the Cross. I am edified and spiritually jealous of “Gaudium et Spes” (Joy and Hope). This is the key to happiness in marriage! LINK 3 WORLD MEETING... cont’d from p.1 ICCFM ON INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
by Past Presidents Jose and Margarita Pich Address by His Eminence Cardinal Sin
Worship and the Sacraments is the role of t is a fortunate 2) The crisis of the the family in dialogue with other religions. Catholic families can share their values, such as the coincidence that traditional family giving defense of life, while maintaining their identity in 2003 and 2004 way to different family styles proclaiming their faith. On another level, His many 3) The basic importance of Eminence Crescenzio Cardinal Sepe of the international family in social Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples clarified the missionary role of the family. The eventsI focusing on the development foundation of the missionary dimension is in family are taking place 4) The greater importance conjugal love as the fundamental choice of the and, of course, affecting governments give to the Christian spouses, and the family is called to be the ICCFM. In May 2003 family through legislation a sign of the love of God in the history of humanity, thus becoming a light to the world. the United Nations and provisions for family Concurrently, the Congress of Sons and Committee for the Family Past Presidents Jose and welfare Daughters, convened for the first time at this in Vienna will have a Margarita Pich Meeting, acclaimed its success in the decision that the youth will participate in all subsequent meeting to plan What can the CFM do? World Meetings of Families. celebrations for the Tenth Anniversary From the very beginning the CFM has At the closing Mass, His Eminence Cardinal of the International Year of the Family derived its inspiration through groups Lopez Trujillo called upon parents to evangelize next year. In July 2003 two continental working in unity and strengthened by their children and transmit to them “the light of faith.” He stated that the world is in the midst of a CFM meetings will Christ. The battle between light and darkness, where there be held: the MFC From the very beginning the sacrament of are multiple attacks against the family, including Encuentro Latina CFM has derived its marriage is the the imposition of ethical codes contrary to God’s America in San conscience and will and the approval of unjust laws that lead to inspiration through groups ethical relativism. His Eminence called upon Jose, Costa Rica, fountain from which families to live their vocation of sanctity and to and the CFM working in unity and power is drawn to transmit to the world the light and peace of Christ. European Congress strengthened by Christ. accept the In his Angelus message via live broadcast, in Zagreb, Croatia, responsibilities in His Holiness Pope John Paul II reminded listeners of his words in the apostolic exhortation which will be the second European society. Therefore, in all these coming Familiaris Consortio. He reiterates in great awe meeting held in an ex-communist international family events, CFM that “the future of society passes by way of the country. The CFM Asia Continental members should be invited to share their family.” Convention will follow in September extraordinary experiences of marriage The Manila meeting gave eloquent testimony to the Catholic Church’s efforts in helping ensure in Bangalore, India. Then in 2004 the and family life. the future of society through the vitality and ICCFM World Assembly of Families As the ICCFM exists in five stability of the family. will be convened in California, USA. continents, these experiences will Many CFM groups all over the world undoubtedly be different because GOOD NEWS THAT BRINGS HOPE The World Meeting of Families offers a vision are celebrating their Golden Jubilees. situations are different. Although for the future through the family in the Good Upon reflection, a fact emerges that the Christian marriage is the same, families News for Life, Society, the Poor, the Youth, the past 50 years has seen an increased are affected by the environment in World and the Church. Confronted by threats of interest in the family as an institution which they grow. war, terrorism, famine, sickness and economic uncertainty, many people live in fear. While this with specific attributes and problems: Participation in these coming fear is manifested within the family, it is also in international family events will give the family that love abides, the “Good News” of 1) The discovery of marriage as a CFM members the opportunity to show love that overcomes fear and brings hope to the community of love with a social their solidarity with all the families of world. The Good News for Life is the call to page 12 ! dimension the world. 4 Bulletin of the International Confederation of Christian Family Movements FIRES SPECIAL: A Pictorial of Father Gabriel Calvo’s GoldenGolden JubileeJubilee
ne of the momentous events at the 35th International OOEucharistic Congress of May 1952 in Barcelona was the ordination of 322 priests held at the Grand Stadium of the city. Among the new priests was Fr. Gabriel Calvo, who soon after began his ministry as Spiritual Director of the students in the College of the Brothers of the Christian Doctrine. At the same time he directed a group of boys who did apostolic work in the neighboring barracks between the city and the sea.
Shortly afterwards Fr. Calvo was introduced to a Catalan couple, Jaime and Mercedes Ferrer, who were seeking a priest to direct their spiritual life in their marriage. It was a novel assignment at the time, and it was hard for any priest to believe himself capable of carrying out the new assignment. However, Fr. Calvo had received these instructions: “Whatever they ask you, always answer in the affirmative.” Thus was born the organization of “Marriage Teams” in Barcelona which, after a few years and despite many difficulties, reached out to many couples. Later these groups affiliated with the Movement for a Better World, and finally, under the name “Marriage Encounter,” united with the Christian Family Movement that was spreading throughout the world. After a few years, Fr. Calvo was assigned to Rome, and later LINK 5 to Washington, where he has lived for 30 years. Washington is now the home of the FIRES programs which Fr. Calvo has established, comprising many action programs called “encounters” among engaged couples, married couples, sons and daughters and whole families. These programs that promote and enhance family life have now spread to 118 countries in Latin America, North America, Europe and Asia. Old friends of Fr. Calvo have wanted to celebrate his Golden Jubilee, taking the opportunity of his visit to Barcelona on December 14, 2002. There was a great gathering of people—young and old, priests and laymen, all of Fr. Calvo’s many friends through the years. The celebration was held at the same College of the Brothers of the Christian Doctrine where he started his priestly ministry. It began with a Concelebrated Mass, followed by a talk in which Fr. Calvo described his present work, and finally a great feast that revived all the experience of half a century. 6 Bulletin of the International Confederation of Christian Family Movements News Around the World RESOLUTIONS IN ACTION From National Editors, University. In addition, I am giving a Agnel and Anette D’Cruz Foundation Course on Global Issues. Alice is very busy with the Natural he four resolutions on education, social action, CFM CFM Goa is striving to improve quality Family Planning Project in mainland China formation and communication determined at the 2001 of life and spiritual growth of members and the religious conference in Hong Kong. Maceio ICCFM World Assembly of Families serve as through concerted individual efforts and Augustine is studying in primary three Tstandards directing our CFM mission until 2004. In addition, action-oriented programs like recollections and wishing to be a member of school ICCFM Chaplain Monsignor Charles Vella reminds us that prayer and ongoing formation. soccer team. should be a priority, to renew the CFM through Christ and to “cast our Bangalore CFM celebrated the Feast Wishing you all the best! Take care nets deeper” in the spirituality of the family. of the Holy Family on January 6, 2003, and keep in touch. News from member countries attest to the commitment of CFM’ers with a Holy Mass offered by National JAPAN to these standards as they implement the resolutions in different Chaplain Fr. Jose Fonseca, followed by FIRES Encounters ways throughout the CFM world. breakfast and fellowship. Fr. Donnon Murray has been traveling Mumbai CFM’ers from Orlem extensively in Asia, Europe, Latin America AFRICA give us ample time to prepare for the organized a study session on the CFM and North America to direct FIRES Assembly in 2004. called “Know Your Movement,” conducted programs for youth and adult groups, for MALAWI You mention that you have the intention by resource persons Fr. Lancy Pinto, laity and clergy. Takashi and Hisako of re-establishing lines of communication Mumbai archdiocese chaplain of the Otani solicited prayers for the SADE for with CFM’ers throughout Africa. We Christian Workers Movement, and Anette seminarians conducted by Fr. Donnon therefore wish to inform you that our daughter D’Cruz. Topics included the story of Murray on February 5 – 7, 2003, in Nasirumbi Gorreti has allowed us Cardijn, the history of the Christian Family Nagoya. This was the first SADE in the to use her e-mail address at Movement and the “Observe, Judge, Act” world to be held for only seminarians!
From Joe and Charito Hilario communicators who have provided the method of natural family planning, also in EUROPE ICCFM with information and pictures on Sinhala. We distribute this booklet by CFM cannot be relevant nationally or the 2003 World Meeting of Families in charging a small fee at pre-Cana CROATIA internationally if it is not relevant in parishes Manila. conferences conducted every month. and dioceses. In fact, it must be relevant in SINGAPORE THAILAND basic ecclesial communities. In simple Articles Posted on Website language, CFM must be felt by families in Mark and Theresa Tan’s insightful, basic ecclesial communities, parishes and incisive and critical articles on varied social dioceses. This means the delivery of both issues that affect family life, published family evangelization and family apostolate monthly by the CFSM of Singapore, have programs. CFM cannot just undertake finally found their way to the ICCFM European Congress Preparations these programs unless they are integrated website, thanks to them and to ICCFM in the pastoral program of parishes and webmaster Andy Pozdol. Find the European Continental Presidents Tony dioceses. Are they? selections under “CFM articles” at HIS EXCELLENCY ARCHBISHOP ADRIANO BERNARDINI, APOSTOLIC NUNCIO and Lily Gauci have been visiting Zagreb Europe is experiencing the FIRES www.iccfm.org for a stimulating and TO THAILAND WELCOMING NOP & ELMA the past two years to plan the IV European programs. Participating families will need thought-provoking reading experience that MUANGKROOT Congress with National Presidents Marijo continuing formation in the CFM unit naturally leads to action on CFM From the Apostolic Nuncio and Darka Zivkovic and their team. They meetings. The question is, how ready are resolutions. Archbishop Adriano Bernardini the CFM’ers to deliver these programs? have successfully visited both government SRI LANKA and religious dignitaries and gained Have they themselves faithfully Thank you for your kind letter with the From National Presidents Susil and wholehearted support for the Congress. understood, undergone and assimilated enclosed documentation about the Shirani Gunaratna Scheduled for July 17 – 21, 2003, the them? A tired saying is, “You cannot deliver International Confederation of Christian Congress will examine the theme, “The what you do not have,” internally and Family Movements with which I am We are doing lots of CFM work in Sri Family as a Successful Life-Long externally. familiar. Lanka. There was a big campaign against Community.” Recognition of God’s I convey my good wishes to you, as abortion. The new government was getting involvement in every true marriage will From Ike and Nene Moreno well as the assurance of my prayers for ready to legalize abortion, but the CFM be discussed, as well as marriage as a your endeavors in serving the Church was successful in cancelling the move by sacrament and the development of a through your mission for families. I also our action. Now we are concentrating on sincere, true, and simple communication look forward to meeting you at the Apostolic divorce. There is a draft against divorce with God. prepared by Susil which was unanimously Nunciature when you would have the time CZECH REPUBLIC approved by CFM National Executive to come. From National Presidents Committee. With best wishes and cordial regards. Jiri and Ludmila Ludvik The Holy Angels Sisters celebrated their 100 Years Jubilee in 2003 and included Asian Conference Planning Meeting Thank you for your kind wishes. We OATHTAKING OF CFM ARCHDIOCESAN CFM, OME and SADE in their Jubilee are fine and our family organization Ziva Program. They organised an OME Greetings from Cebu! We have Rodina keeps working. We would like to weekend at Ganegama in September and calendared every third Sunday as our wish you all the best and God´s blessing more OME and SADE weekends in meeting at the archdiocesan level. Two for your important work for families. weeks after installation day, we scheduled November and December. HUNGARY the first meeting under our leadership. We Rev. Fr. Anthony Padidilian, OMI, From left, FRANCIS COLASO, India Nat’l Pres., From National Presidents were very happy to see old familiar faces celebrated the Golden Jubilee of his ELMA & NOP MUANKROOT (right) ICCFM Balazs and Krisztina Menesi we hadn’t seen for quite a time—a very profession as an Oblate of Mary Presidents, FR. BUNSONG HONGTHONG, Thailand encouraging start! We hope the Holy Spirit Immaculate this year. He is one of the Nat’l Chaplain & DENNIS CHUA, Continental Pres. After a long period of hard work, we will continue to inspire them to come priests fully involved with OME and To plan for the Asian CFM Conference presented five printed booklets for CFM faithfully to these meetings. SADE in Sri Lanka, and he conducted th in September, Continental President group meetings. Each booklet contains Ike and I are hopeful that we will be OME and SADE in celebration of his 50 Anniversary. Dennis Chua and India National President full material for ten group meetings: starting able to perk up the hearts of the old members Francis Colaso came to Bangkok on and inspire new and younger couples to March 1 – 2, 2003, to meet with ICCFM continue our CFM vision and mission so From CFM Sri Lanka Founders Percy and Agnes Silva Presidents Nop and Elma Muangkroot, (below) that we will have more workers for His Thailand National Chaplain Fr. Bunsong CFM Hungary Spiritual vineyard and revive the Cebu CFM! With Hongthong and chaplains Fr. Charles Day Participants God’s grace, I know we can make it! Although I am not completely well, I am engaged in CFM activities. You may Cotant and Fr. Vrasak Buranapol. The be interested to hear that recently we printed Conference theme on “The Christian Appreciation Family: Challenge of the Present Times” (above) Heartfelt thanks to National Executive a small booklet in our mother tongue His Grace will be developed in three aspects: the BISHOP BIRO Vice-Presidents Rolly and Josie Mesa Sinhala on the “Spirit, Method and Technique of the CFM.” We also forces acting on the Christian family, the of Hungary who have tried to contact the archdiocesan mission of the Christian family and the Family Promotion Council in Kuala Lumpur published details of sixteen meetings for strategies that will help the Christian family and final prayer, recommended Bible to renew their CFM affiliation and invite Leadership Formation which has become actualize its mission. passage and spiritual reading, a short text them to the next Asian meeting. Rolly and very helpful in starting new CFM cells. on the actual topic, questions for Observe, Josie are also active and reliable We printed a small booklet on Dr. Billings’ 8 Bulletin of the International Confederation of Christian Family Movements points for Judge and recommended actions whole aspect of evangelization. I think we We have sent you our Bulletin and we donation of 200 Euros. We wish to remind for Act. This provides material for a whole can sum up all the ideals of the ICCFM in kindly request you to print, photocopy and countries that the ICCFM asks each CFM year for groups who want to grow in faith the concept of evangelization, which starts publish it for your groups and to make it couple contribute one dollar a year or each and love. from the family. known to other groups. Please send us country to pledge an affordable sum to help We have also published an Introduction I fully endorse the establishment of addresses of persons who wish to receive with Confederation expenses. If your Booklet which includes detailed information formation schools, or better still, schools for the Bulletin. country has not yet contributed for the year on CFM and the FIRES programs, some the Evangelization of Families to Families. We also request you to answer the 2002, you are kindly asked to send your practical suggestions as well as the full The experience of other movements teaches preliminary questionnaire in preparation for donation. Though we have already sent a material for three sample meetings. Any us that growth depends on formation. We the European Congress this July in Zagreb, few letters asking for country contributions, group can try out these three meetings, need a School of Evangelization and we Croatia. Raise your voice in public so that we received funds only from Malta, and if they wish, they can decide to join need to prepare a program for such everyone can become acquainted with the Portugal and Slovakia. the CFM—as it often happens. An experience. general situation of today’s family and Our term as Continental President Introduction Booklet to FIRES programs On April 25 I will be Rimini, Italy, with undertake common strategies to defend it. is due to finish next July at the CFM and the Dialogues for Sons and Daughters 25000 people from the Renewal Movement. Please send us your experiences of Congress. We ask and encourage every have been also published, written by I will pray there for you and for all ICCFM. family apostolate so that we can publish country to nominate candidates for the Father Calvo. We enclose a picture about As for the Tenth Anniversary of the them in our bulletin. Do not hesitate to ask us position of CFM Continental Presidents these booklets published. International Year in 2004, we should for information or for documents. Visit our for the next three years. Just recently, three new groups have celebrate it with the Pontifical Council for the web site at http://www.mfc-italia.it/ to get We attended the UN Vienna started in Western Hungarian cities. All Family and the U.N. further information about us. session at which plans for the Tenth three started from recent Original Marriage I respond with joy to your e-mail and Anniversary of the Year of the Family were Encounters, at the end of which participants this was my intention for the ICCFM Mass Expansion Work discussed. It was decided that NGO’s were informed that they are welcome to join on the first Sunday of the month. Your spiritual Monsignor Charles Vella and Tony and would ask for information about projects CFM monthly meetings with other couples tips are very good and I am sure have Lily Gauci traveled to Sicily in early 2003 from all countries and organizations in their parish, using the printed CFM been of inspiration to all. I strongly invoke to promote the OME in Prato, Noto and involved, which would be published in a booklets as guidelines. Our Lady of Fatima whose message for other Sicilian towns. Their greatest aim is book for use not just for the Tenth In February we had a wonderful spiritual peace requests for prayer and penance. to train some local couples to conduct the Anniversary but beyond. day conducted by Bishop Biro. One Perhaps the ICCFM could work hundred people participated, representing National Assembly on a book like this. CFM in various around 25 CFM groups all over the country. The CFM Italy National Assembly countries could send information about their We enclose two pictures about this spiritual was held last November in Prato with projects and experiences, to be shared day. At the moment we have about 28 over 100 persons attending. Keynote with the world. This book with relevant existing CFM groups. Speaker was ICCFM Chaplain ICCFM information could then be then We gave a 50 minutes interview about Monsignor Charles Vella on the theme presented to governments, to the Vatican CFM and FIRES on the Hungarian Catholic “Cast Your Nets Deeper.” A very special and others as the case may be. It can also Radio in March. We regularly organize guest was the Bishop Emeritus of Prato, be sent to other family organizations or to FIRES programs for every member of the Msgr. Pietro Fiordelli, the father of the newly-established CFM’s in different family: married couples, engaged couples, pastoral family work through the MFC. It OME in Sicily in the future. countries. sons and daughters. This Spring we had a was he who introduced to the Vatican MALTA We are hoping to represent ICCFM Sons and Daughters Encounter in February, Council the concepts of the family as From European Presidents in Vienna for the seminar in May as well an Engaged Encounter in April and an “domestic church” and of married couples Tony and Lily Gauci as to attend for the Full Committee meeting Original Marriage Encounter in May. Please as “consecrated” like priests by virtue of and the Board meeting. pray for all the participants that the Lord may their Sacrament. Other special guests The CFM Family Day in Malta has touch their hearts. attending were Continental Presidents Tony really taken root. Couples and families We have arranged with Fr Tibor for the and Lily Gauci and Malta Presidents John with children filled the grounds of the OME in Ukraine on June 13 to 15. In July and Marthese Farrugia. National elections Archbishop’s Seminary with joy, noise and Fr. Donnon Murray is going to introduce were also held and Mario and Maruiccia prayers. The day started with a Mass two new FIRES programs in Hungary Di Raimondo were re-elected Presidents. celebrated by National Chaplain Rev. Fr. (Sons and Daughters Retorno and Marriage The Assembly invited all the families Nicholas Debono Montebello and animated Re-Encounter). We are also preparing a to become protagonists of change in a by family groups. This year we had Priest Encounter to be given by Bishop society threatened by material and spiritual members of the Civil Protection giving a Biro in August. It gives deep joy to see poverty. It is the moment to resume with demonstration of their valuable work. In how the Spirit gives growth to FIRES. courage the defense of the culture of life addition there were games for the whole From National Presidents ITALY and the values of peace. Finally, it appealed family, and it was interesting to see grown- John and Marthese Farrugia From ICCFM Chaplain to all Christians of good faith to face the ups competing with children. CFM Msgr. Charles Vella present issues, sharing pains and members not only enjoyed the day but At the moment we are busy with the anxieties, hopes and joys, and thereby also felt a sense of belonging to the CFM district meetings. We have five districts in I think prayer and adoration of the construct common routes founded on while casual discussions also took place. Malta at the moment, and the three meetings Blessed Sacrament should be a priority in justice and peace. The “Bring and Buy” stall served as a we have already had were very well the CFM. I endorse formation and social fundraising venue for the Movement. organized. Attendance was satisfactory, action, but please find time to discuss the From National Presidents We are pleased announce that after our better than last year’s. This week we have Mario and Maruiccia Di Raimondo last appeal for funds, Slovakia has sent a another two district meetings, one of
LINK 9 which we had to organize as we have not Josefina from Avila and by Max and ELA or the AGLA in Costa Rica. Please campaigns for “Zero Hunger” and “Zero yet found a couple to replace us. We are Pruden from Cadiz. greet everyone for us as we had always Illiteracy,” and planning for the XV starting with half-an-hour adoration at the We send our love and prayers for attended these Encounters. We send a National Assembly, to be held in Bagé, new millennium chapel to promote more God’s blessings. warm embrace in the name of the Holy State of Rio Grande do Sul, in July 2004. spirituality in our groups. Family of Nazareth. The meeting of the Regional Directive Looking forward to meet you LATIN AMERICA Board for Northeast Brazil took place on sometime in the future. March 21 – 22, 2003, in Maceió, attended ARGENTINA BRAZIL by regional Leaders Thales and Theresa From Past Presidents Golden Wedding Anniversaries Silva, the coordinators of the four states George and M’Louise Sammut with MFC groups and local couples. Items discussed were MFC challenges, We read from LINK that you have been expansion and preparation for for the VI very busy since you took over the duties Northeastern Regional Assembly, to be of CFM international presidents. May God From National Presidents held in Fortaleza, Ceará, in July 2003. Jorge and Lucy Calvo keep you in His care while you devote COLOMBIA your time and energies to the work He From National Presidents Marthica and To build solid Christian families has chose you for. We also enjoyed reading Luis Carlos Pinilla the pages containing CFM news from all been one of the dominant subjects in the Fourth World Meeting of Families. We around the globe: it made us feel so much Receive a special greeting in the Holy get encouragement to continue working part of a large global family. Family of Nazareth! Thank you very with enthusiasm for family evangelization We send our very best regards to you much for the breath of your voices, for the and promotion. We should not lose sight both, wishing you many more months and knowledge that from such a distant land of our objective for the triennium, to focus years of service to CFM. Hope to meet you also make the effort TO MAKE OF on the MFC missionary, to put the you next July in Zagreb. FAMILIES HAPPIER FAMILIES with missionary spirit in all our groups. SLOVAKIA your pastoral work. Regarding your His Holiness Pope John Paul II states, From Vladimir and Maria request to pray for peace in the world, “The family is the cradle of evangelization.” Durikovic to Fr. Calvo especially for the families in Iraq, and for We are missionaries of life and love and of the Lord to stop with His Hand the SARS the Gospel. It is necessary to put power With a great joy we announce that your Congratulations and best wishes to epidemic, we will do it. into our project, to be protagonists of a books HAND IN HAND and FAMILY longtime MFC Latin American Leaders In Colombia we have an institution difficult present, looking forward to a hopeful ENERGY were presented in Slovak Radio and Past CIMFC Vice-Presidents Helio for the formation of Coordinators of Base future. The missionary challenge is born this Monday, February 3rd, 2003. and Selma Amorim, who celebrated their Teams that have for a good while been of the heart and commits us to live the Allow us to announce, too, that the Golden Wedding Anniversary on forming couples who wish to make a Gospel values and to give testimony to Slovak FIRES gathering is planned on December 14, 2002, with a Holy Mass more active apostolate, and they are them. Let us remember and behold Mary, June 28, 2003. We heartily invite you to in the Church of Our Lady and a reception already beginning to work with women who is always present in our mission, a this Encounter. Slovak families await at their elegant home with the spacious as heads of the home, widows and with service based on love which finds more the Lord’s Light and the Energy which terrace and gardens in Rio de Janeiro. the separated. With respect to the youth, joy in giving than in receiving. Strongly they have felt through the FIRES programs (PICTURE) we have an active movement and will united in prayer with Mary, let us follow through contact with you. The invitation to the Golden Wedding already convene the V National her who says, “Do everything He tells We are praying for your health and Anniversary of CIMFC Vice-Presidents Encounter of the Youth next June in the you.” God’s blessing in each work to which He Carlos and Magda Hita begins, “Those beautiful Colombian coastal city of We aspire to be companions on the calls you. who love initiate a dialog that never seems Guajira. road in this triennium, to be at your side at sufficiently long.” The momentous event SPAIN every time and place, as circumstances took place on April 13, 2003, with the GUATEMALA From Past Presidents permit. We will try to be attentive to the reception at Wildberger Mansion in From National Presidents Jose and Margarita Pich needs of the MFC, to offer fraternal support Salvador Bahia. Edmer and Edilma Luna Villatoro and together create a strong and We are sorry that MFC Spain is not committed MFC throughout the country. From Northeast Regional Leaders It is an enormous joy for Guatemala able to provide a candidate for the post of (Adapted from the MFC Tales and Theresa Silva to receive news from our world European Continental Presidents for the Argentina Newsletter) Presidents. At this time we wish that our next election because Spain has a The National Directive Board of MFC Lord Jesus Christ will enlighten you and language barrier problem as well as other From Past Presidents Juan and Brazil had a meeting on March 14 –15, give you the sanctifying graces to problems. The only solution we can think Rosita Leon 2003, in Sao Paulo, attended by accomplish success in your work at the of is for some other couple from Malta to We were very well accommodated National Officers led by President Maria front of the CIMFC. volunteer. When we visited Malta years in Manila for the Fourth World Meeting of Sebastiana Soares Leao and National The only news we have for the ago, we met some couples who, from our Families, thanks to the Holy See which Chaplain Father Jose Coelho and the moment is that the MFC of Guatemala point of view, are no doubt prepared to take subsidized all our expenses. We have a leading couples of the five MFC Brazil will have a grand participation in the II the presidency. Let us pray. picture with His Eminence Alfonso regions. Included in the agenda were American Missionary Congress Regarding the Zagreb inquiry, we are Cardinal Lopez Trujillo which we will action reports,the financial statement, (CAM2), to be held next November in sending you the answers to the send to you very soon. Unfortunately MFC services and publications, activities Guatemala, at which we hope that 4000 questionnaire prepared by Armando and we will not be able to participate in the to support the new federal government missionaries from the American continent 10 Bulletin of the International Confederation of Christian Family Movements will participate. Since two years ago we We are grateful for your message and PERU of this year’s program and to work with have supported the said project which we hope to continue our communication. Many thanks to National Presidents the local team on upcoming projects. will bring many spiritual benefits to our A brotherly hug in Christ and may He Oscar and Carlota Silva for One ongoing project is the development families. Greetings from Guatemala! bless us! communicating with the ICCFM! MFC of an enrichment program for leaders, MEXICO PANAMA Peru is vibrant and working hard in its which will be piloted in Chicago and From Ignacio and Purificacion Villegas service for families. refined for presentation in the summer following the board meeting in We were designated spokepersons Winchester, VA. for the National MFC for a short period. At the moment we no longer hold that NORTH AMERICA First Hillenbrand Award Recipient function. Ignacio is now working in CFM USA Mexico City while I remain in Oaxaca. CFM Represented at Monsignor Michael Lenihan, retiring The separation has been hard but it has Conference of Family Life Ministers pastor of St. Lawrence Martyr Parish made our spirit stronger as a family. Our From Continental Presidents in Redondo Beach, CA, received the apostolate during the past four years has illiam and Esilda Cheng CFM Executive Directors Paul and first-ever Reynold Hillenbrand Award been as assistants to a priest who runs a Jane Leingang, Secretary Lauri on November 16, 2002, presented by Sunday radio program. We share the The planning meeting in Chiriqui Przybysz, and Continental Presidents National Presidents Peter and Jane Word with the audience which covers accomplished its objectives. In it we Gary and Kay Aitchison attended the Buchbauer and National Chaplain Rev. most of Oaxaca State. It is a very presented the Tentative Plan for the National Association of Catholic Family Fr. Michael Conroy. The Hillenbrand stimulating and enriching spiritual development of the ELA and AGLA. Life Ministers conference in Kansas Award, named after the first CFM exercise. There was a great deal of enthusiasm in City in October. National Chaplain Monsignor Reynold Thank you for your words. We seek the work of both countries and we agreed Bishop Kevin Boland, chairman of Hillenbrand of Chicago, who led in holiness in whatever space we happen to be in constant communication. We will the U.S. Bishops Committee on setting the CFM program agenda during to be. We send you our best and hope send the photo requested. Marriage and Family Life encouraged its formative years, recognizes CFM that one day we will meet. The response of the countries to the the group in his remarks saying, “You chaplains for outstanding service to the preparatory materials for the ELA have are an instrument of the God of the Movement. In all of his 21 years at St. been very good and punctual. Our team possible.” Dr. Eileen Raffaniello- Lawrence, Monsignor Lenihan has NICARAGUA continues working and preparing for the Barbella spoke to the group about the been supremely supportive of CFM. From Eduardo of the Marriage next events. It will give us great pleasure “monastery of marriage” which At the award presentation Monsignor Encounter Movement to have you at the ELA and the AGLA, preserves “the center of each of us Lenihan acknowledged that he drew a which you are most welcome to observe. and the center of our marriage.” From great deal of support from the CFM May the Grace and Love of the Father SPLA Vice-Presidents and Formation that center she noted that families are group, which was important in spill with power and glory in so noble Secretaries Quico and Chela Alvarenga sent to participate in the mission of the developing an active base of involved a work. I am from Nicaragua and I spent a month in the South where they Church. parishioners over his years as pastor. belong to the Marriage Encounter visited Chile, Paraguay, Bolivia and CFM exhibited its new program Movement. I would like to share Argentina. We have received messages materials, especially Your Marriage the Winter CFM Board Meeting with you all about Christian growth. from these countries expressing their Great Adventure. Greetings and I await your answer. happiness with these pastoral visits. The CFM Board of Directors held
ICCFM and CIMFC Webmaster ANDY POZDOL www.iccfm.org Visit the ICCFM website! IN MEMORIAM
ISABELLE LEROUX Isabelle and her husband Rollie were Presidents of the ICCFM from 1977 to 1983. They organized the 1980 World Assembly of Families in Rome. In 1989 the Lerouxs were appointed by Wayne and Sue Hamilton to serve as liaisons to United Nations in New York. They were recognized for their contributions to the ICCFM with the Cardijn Award for service to ICCFM at the ICCFM General Assembly in Malta in 1995.
JOHNNY HAGAD Johnny and his late wife Titay were Philippine CFM National Presidents in 1982 – 83. They were instrumental in CFM expansion outside Manila.
GERALD PRETE Jerry and his wife Anne were among the first CFM members in Chicago since the 1940’s. Jerry was active in developing CFM leadership training and motivation until the 1970’s and developed a mission of providing affordable housing for indigent seniors.
JOHN NAKAMURA John and his wife Theresa brought the Marriage Encounter to Japan and participated in several ICCFM World Assemblies in the 1970’s – 1980’s.
WORLD MEETING... cont’d from p.3 the affirmation of solidarity with threatened by exploitation through the way for the word of God. legislators to respond positively to poor families. The Meeting firmly prostitution, pornography, child The Good News for the Church the Note of the Congregation for rejects the practice of population labor, drug trafficking, homosexual is that the family emerges not merely the Doctrine of the Faith on their control and calls on demographers adoption, immoral “sex education” as a passive subject of responsibilities as Christians and and economists to tell the truth and internet misuse. evangelization and care but as an citizens. Anti-life practices such as about population trends, on The Good News for the World active agent in the mission of Christ abortion, embryo experimentation, governments to turn away from is the Christian Family reaching out in His Church. As the smallest cloning, and euthanasia cannot be population control and focus on to all peoples and bearing the good Christian community, the family is tolerated in any free pro-family concrete policies that favor poor news of Jesus Christ. The Christian the living cell of the whole Church, society, as the family is the families in terms of health, Family expresses solidarity with offering a vision for evangelization sanctuary of life. education, agrarian reform, persecuted Christian families and and spiritual growth within it. A call The Good News for Society is employment, and housing. Natural with families who become innocent is made for pastoral planning to the vision of a pro-family society regulation of fertility which helps victims of conflict in regions make the family a priority, to shape that challenges families to take the couples space births in a moral and threatened by war. As the future the pastoral plan of each diocese initiative to struggle for social healthy way is proposed. of humanity passes through the and parish around the family. policies and legislation that promote The Good News for the Youth family, a call is made for creative Through prayers, learning and and protect the rights of the family, is the affirmation of the right and strategies for evangelization, sharing comes a deepening of a just distribution of resources and dignity of all children. They should especially with rapid cultural understanding and appreciation of support for the most vulnerable and never be neglected and abandoned changes undermining respect for how the Christian family fulfills its helpless. on the streets. They should be the culture of indigenous peoples role as a “domestic church,” the The Good News for the Poor is protected, especially when whose family values often prepare basic unit of evangelization. By living in unity and love, the Christian family reflects God, as it was in a family that the Son took flesh Link-Lazo, published biannually by the International Confederation of through the power of the Holy Spirit. LINK Contemplating this mystery, all are Christian Family Movements (ICCFM), is distributed to members as part of the membership. Link-Lazo includes worldwide news on activites of enjoined to entrust families to the ICCFM. gentle protection of Mary, Queen The International Confederation of Christian Family Movements (ICCFM) of the Family, and Saint Joseph her spouse. Finally, the Christian family For further details contact: is a leading international partner of the Vatican in the advancement of the development of the family globally along traditional and current Church is sent to spread the Good News Link-Lazo doctrines. of love that overcomes fear and ICCFM Secretariat brings hope to the world. [email protected] The ICCFM Mission is to promote, encourage,and help the Christian [email protected] Family Movements so that the organizations and their members live their Editorial Board human and Christian vocations and bear witness to the essential values (Sources: Report by Loy and Trining Marquez, CFM Philippines EDITOR of the family,based upon the faith as announced by the Gospel and LILIA ROBLES-AUSTRIACO proposed by the teachings of the Catholic Church. The Confederation Representative to the World Meeting of MANAGING EDITOR Families, and ZENIT News Agency, ELMA MUANGKROOT shall support the expansion of the Christian Family Movement in those “Families as the Building Blocks of GRAPHIC DESIGNER countries where it is established and will try to establish it where it does KAHLIL A. DE PIO not exist. Society: Manila Meeting Highlights,” Manila, Philippines, February 1, 2003)