Ad Gentes OFMCap

We moved

2011-12-30T16:24:00.000+01:00

I moved my Blog to a new place. Please click here.

Ho spostato il mio Blog. Per favore fare click qui.

He cambiado mi Blog. Haz click aqui.

Ich bin mit meinem Blog umgezogen. Bitte click hier.

http://adgentesofmcap.wordpress.com/

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

2011-12-24T15:46:00.003+01:00

Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo
Vrolijk Kerstfeest en een Gelukkig Nieuwjaar
Sretan Bozic i Nova godina
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Zalig Kerstfeest en Gelukkig nieuw jaar
Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année
Wesolych Swiat i Szczesliwego Nowego Roku
Feliz Navidad y Prospero año nuevo
God Jul Och Ett Gott Nytt Ar
Fröhliche Weihnachten und ein glückliches Neues Jahr

“Go into all the world” - Cantalamessa about evangelization

2011-12-16T11:52:00.000+01:00

Br. Raniero Cantalamessa, Capuchin and preacher of the papal household, talks in his Advent mediation before the Pope about Evangelization. In the invitation he describes his intention:“In response to the Supreme Pontiff’s call for a renewed commitment to evangelization and by way of preparation for the 2012 synod of bishops on the same issue, I intend to identify in these Advent meditations four waves of evangelization in the history of the Church, that is, four moments in which we witness an acceleration or a taking up again of the missionary commitment. These are:
1) The spread of Christianity in the first three centuries, until the eve of Constantine’s edict, which is led by, first, the itinerant prophets, and then the bishops;
2) The 6th to 9th centuries in which we witness the re-evangelization of Europe after the Barbarian invasions — evangelization led by the work above all of monks;
3) The 16th century, with the discovery and conversion to Christianity of the peoples of the “New World” — the work above all of friars;
4) The present age, which sees the Church committed to a re-evangelization of the secularized West, with the decisive participation of the laity. In each of these moments I shall attempt to illumine what we can learn in the Church of today: the errors that must be avoided and the examples to be imitated and the specific contribution that pastors, monks, religious of active life and the laity can make to evangelization.”
Read his reflection:
Friday December 2nd, 2011
1st Advent Sermon
First Wave of Evangelization
La prima ondata di evangelizzazione
Read more in EN, IT

Friday December 9th, 2011
2nd Advent Sermon
The Second Wave of Evangelization
There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free.
C’È PIÙ GRECO O GIUDEO, BARBARO E SCITA
Read more in EN, IT

What the missionary say about Brussels

2011-12-14T11:29:00.002+01:00

At the end of the last session of our Inter-Franciscan Missionary Program (IFMP) the participants made their recommendations about the program. I publish some of them, without giving names.The question they answered was: “Do you have anything to suggest to the general secretaries of mission?”• Maybe the duration could be prolonged or done in 2 phases so as to avoid rushing or over-feeding.• It’s a pity that such a useful course is attended by such a small group of friars - due to expenses. Maybe it could be given in different locations (continents) to avoid transport expenses and accommodate more friars of the continent... • Ask the mission secretaries of each province of the Order to participate in this program. Make this compulsory. • Suggest secretaries for the missions in different entities who haven’t done a course in missiology to be attending/ to attend the course. it’s enriching for the province’s mission animation. • Introduce sessions on : Public Relations (PR); Communication (Media, website); How to be a missionary in Europe. • If you add some more subjects it would be good: ecumenism, human trafficking, public media introduction. • Topics for the future: one week for mass-media, communication with journalist, make own website, radio, Tv; how to find donations, communication with people who want to help own project. • A good news letter (semiannual or quarterly) of the IFMP be published and distributed among the franciscan Orders, Poor Clares, SFO, Youfra and other interested parties, so that we can promote and inform the missionary spirit of the franciscan family to the whole world. Also invite SFO, Franciscan Sisters, lay missionaries to study here in the IFMP.• All missionaries has to attend the course.

Msgr. Luigi Padovese - hearing ended after 4 minutes

2011-12-02T08:37:00.001+01:00

Iskenderun (AsiaNews) – The second hearing in the trial of Murat Altun, who murdered Mgr Luigi Padovese, ended in Iskenderum after four minutes. Read more at AsiaNews Legge più su Oriente Christiano in Italiano

Br. Mauro visits Missionary Course

2011-11-21T18:07:00.004+01:00

On November 14th the General Minister Br. Mauro visited the Missionary Course in Brussels. 12 friars from the first Order (among them 7 Capuchins) studied and discussed in English the challenges of a Franciscan mission today. The 3-month program started at the beginning of September and ended with a visit to Rome and Assisi. “Transcultural self-perception and perception of the other”, “Franciscan Mission Theology and History”, “Asian and African Culture”, “Mission at the service of the Kingdom of Justice, Peace & Ecology”, “Fraternal economy” and “Leadership” where some of the courses given by Friars from the 1st Order and some lay persons. For the Capuchins, Br. Bill Frigo from the Calvary Province in the US was a member of the steering committee. Br. Mauro Jöhri listened carefully to the experiences of the participants. For most of them it was the first experience of deep reflection about Franciscan mission. “I recognize that I have made many mistakes” one friar said.

The following brothers have participated: Isaac Kalluvettamkuzhil, ofmcap, and Lawrence K. Nadar George, ofmcap (St. Francis Province, Kerala, India, for GHANA), Fernand Winnibold Victor, ofmcap, (Karnataka, India, working in NORTH-EAST INDIA), Kilukkan Laiju, ofmcap, (St. Thomas Province, Kerala, India, working in Malawi), Robert Maxim Nazareth, ofmcap, (Karnataka, India, working in UGANDA), Ewald Nangay, ofmcap, and Benedict Mtena, ofmcap, (Tanzania, working in SOUTH-AFRICA).
Adam Klag, ofmconv, (Poland for UGANDA), Banda Ferdinand Masauso, ofmconv, and Mutale Cornelius, ofmconv, (Zambia), Eufrosino Solibar (YOSI), ofm, (Philippines for MAROCCO), Alfonso P., ofm, (Italy for FAR EAST).

The next course in French will be from February 27 to May 22nd, 2012 in Brussels. (Registrations before December 15th). Next course in English: 3rd September to 27th November 2012.

2011-09-08T05:40:00.004+02:00

I am in Peru. Sunday 5, 2011, started the third capuchin meeting on migration. This time in the Americas. About 50 brothers are gathering in Limas suburb Ñaña for five days to discuss, experience and plan for action.

As migration in rampant in the Americas there are very many places where the brothers are confronted with communities affected by migration, be it through the loss of people leaving the country or by the challenge of welcoming migrant communities in the midst of places there have been for a long time.

Resource people from all Americas are coming in to facilitate the discussions and planings.

You can find more information on the blog of the Justice and Peace Office.
Click here.

2011-09-02T19:12:00.000+02:00

Brussels Programm for Missionaries started

2011-09-02T19:08:00.003+02:00

At the beginning of September the latest session of our Missionary program started at Brussels. 12 friars from the first Order will study and discuss in English the challenges of a Franciscan mission today. The program lasts for 3 months and ends with a visit to the Rome and Assisi. ON September 2nd the 3 General secretaries for Mission from the 1st Order introduced the missionaries to the program and to the situation of the Order. For the Capuchins Br. Bill Frigo from the Calvary Province in the US participates in the steering committee. Br. Mauro Jöhri has announced his visit for November 14th.

The brothers participating are the following: Isac Kalluvettamkuzhil, ofmcap, and Lawrence K. Nadar George, ofmcap (St. Francis Province, Kerala, India, for GHANA), Fernand Winnibold Victor, ofmcap, (Karnataka, India, working in NORTH-EAST INDIA), Kilukkan Laiju, ofmcap, (St. Thomas Province, Kerala, India, working in Malawi), Robert Maxim Nazareth, ofmcap, (Karnataka, India, working in UGANDA), Ewald Nangay, ofmcap, and Benedict Mtena, ofmcap, (Tanzania, working in SOUTH-AFRICA).
Adam Klag, ofmconv, (Poland for UGANDA), Banda Ferdinand Masauso, ofmconv, and Mutale Cornelius, ofmconv, (Zambia), Eufrosino Solibar (YOSI), ofm, (Philippines for MAROCCO), Alfonso P., ofm, (Italy for FAR EAST)

Celebrata dopo 30 anni la prima ordinazione diaconale della diocesi di Tian Shui

2011-08-01T08:58:00.003+02:00

Foto: Tian Shui - Duomo, Cathedral, Cathedral

ASIA/CINA - Tian Shui (Agenzia Fides) – Il 24 luglio scorso è stata celebrata la prima ordinazione diaconale degli ultimi 30 anni della diocesi di Tian Shui (in origine Qin Zhou), provincia di Gan Su, nel nord-ovest della Cina continentale. Secondo quanto riportato all’Agenzia Fides da Faith dell’ He Bei, ha presieduto la solenne ordinazione mons. Giuseppe Li Jing, vescovo della diocesi di Yin Chuan, insieme a decine di sacerdoti della diocesi, sede vacante, di Tian Shui. Inizialmente, la diocesi di Tian Shui era una missione dei Cappuccini tedeschi. Nel 1922 diventa Vicariato Apostolico ed è eretta diocesi di Qin Zhou nel 1946, l’anno dell’istituzione della Gerarchia cinese. Oggi conta oltre 20 mila fedeli, decine di sacerdoti e 20 relhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifigiose della Congregazione della Sacra Famiglia. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 30/07/2011)

After 30 years the first diaconal ordination in the diocese of Tian Shui was celebrated (for English click here)

Se celebra después de 30 años la primera ordenación de diáconos de la diócesis de Tian Shui (para Español haz click aquí)

Mission needs to be promoted

2011-07-16T12:05:00.005+02:00

Mission Commission meets at Frascati

For the third time the International Commission for Mission met at Rome. From July 12 to 14, the nine members gathered at our friar at Frascati. Main topic was the redaction of guidelines for our missionary activity. The document will help to organize still better our activities and to promote the missionary spirit in the Order.

from the left to the right: Paulus Nag, St. Fidelis, India, Isidor Peterhans, Tanzania, Rector of the Int. College, Larry Webber, Detroit, USA, Marek Przeczewski, Warsaw, Poland, Enzo Canozzi, Genova, Italy, Piotr Komorniczak, Ukraina, Promotore of Solidarity, Helmut Rakowski, Germany, Segr. general for mission, Agapit Mroso, Tanzania, Definitor general, Luiz Carlos Susin, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

Christine Rakowski + RIP

2011-06-26T10:32:00.000+02:00

My Mom died Saturday, June 25th, at 10.15am. She was always a strong woman: as a nurse during war, in our family, doing ministries in the parrish and fighting against many illnesses. It was dificult for her to be weak. Specialy during the last weeks. But now she handed her life over to the ONE who carries all our weaknesses and gives Life where we see death. We are sad that she has gone. And we are happy that together with our Dad she now joins eternal life. Thank you for your prayers in the past weeks.
I count on them also now.

The foto above was taken last year in August. The one down shows her as a nurse. No, she was never a nun. It was just the kind of uniform they used in that time in the 1940ies in Germany.

La Missione dei Cappuccini in Congo

2011-06-08T10:40:00.004+02:00

L'apostolato di circa 400 cappuccini tra il 1645 e il 1835 fu di gran lunga la più grande impresa missionaria in Africa prima del periodo moderno. Si tratta anche della missione meglio documentata.
Leggi qui.
Per documenti e imagini vai qui.

Missione - Tutto nella Chiesa è al servizio dell’evangelizzazione

2011-05-16T08:45:00.003+02:00

Il Papa –parlando ai partecipanti all’incontro del consiglio superiore delle Pontificie Opere Missionarie (fra di loro al meno 3 cappuccini) durante l’udienza di sabato mattina, 14 maggio — ricorda che «ogni cristiano dovrebbe fare propria l’urgenza di lavorare per l’edificazione del Regno di Dio», perché «tutto nella Chiesa è al servizio dell’evangelizzazione». Tanto più oggi che — denuncia — «nuovi problemi e nuove schiavitù emergono nel nostro tempo, sia nel cosiddetto primo mondo, benestante e ricco ma incerto circa il suo futuro, sia nei Paesi emergenti». Dove «anche a causa di una globalizzazione caratterizzata spesso dal profitto, finiscono per aumentare le masse dei poveri, degli emigranti, degli oppressi, in cui si affievolisce la luce della speranza».
Di fronte a questa realtà, «la Chiesa deve rinnovare costantemente il suo impegno di portare Cristo, di prolungare la sua missione messianica per l’avvento del Regno di Dio, Regno di giustizia, di pace, di libertà, di amore». Si tratta di «trasformare il mondo secondo il progetto di Dio con la forza rinnovatrice del Vangelo», gettando le reti «nel mare della storia per portare gli uomini verso la terra di Dio»: un compito — ripete il Pontefice — che è «dell’intero Popolo di Dio».

Leggi tutto
Testo e foto dal’Osservatore Romano, 15 Maggio 2011

Ricordiamo in questo contesto le parole del Ministro generale che nella lettera circolare sulla missione parla di Rapporti redenti: “Francesco d’Assisi non solo fu uomo tutto “evangelico”, ma anche uomo “cattolico”, cioè universale con e nella Chiesa. Inserendo nella Regola la norma di come “andare fra i saraceni” volle indicare prima ancora della dimensione del martirio, quella della relazione. Senza nascondere la propria identità di cristiano, il Poverello cercava in primo luogo di incontrare l’altro e di vedere in lui il fratello. L’incontro con il Sultano lo testimonia in modo sorprendente. In questo senso l’azione missionaria dell’Ordine non deve essere intesa in primo luogo alla stregua di una diffusione quantitativa, ma piuttosto come il rendere presente il carisma di san Francesco in culture chttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifhe ancora non lo conoscono. La nostra vuol essere una presenza che intende incidere sulla realtà che la circonda per arricchirla. In ciò essa non mancherà di essere di sostegno alla comunità cristiana. Per essere presenti in questo modo occorre anzitutto fare chiarezza sulla propria vocazione di frati minori: ciò è anteriore sia alla preparazione intellettuale che al desiderio di “andare” in missione.” (Fr. Mauro Jöhri, Nel cuore dell’Ordine la missione, Lettera Circolare 5, 1.6)
Leggi tutto la lettera

Missionaries visit Assisi

2011-05-14T11:50:00.002+02:00

Click here for more.

Formation Missionnaire Interfranciscain

2011-05-14T11:25:00.001+02:00

Nous étions 7 frères franciscains et capucins provenant du Congo Kinshasa, Congo Braza, Bolivie, Haiti, à participer de la session des Formation Missionnaire Interfranciscain, à Bruxelles. Nous avons bien été accueillis à la Fraternité Notre Dame des Nations.

Moi-même, entré au seminaire, avec le désir d’être missionnaire, à l’âge d’onze ans, me voici maintenant missionaire en Haiti. Et quelle chance, après 4 ans en mission en Haiti je reçoie comme un cadeau de l’Ordre des Capucins la possibilité de participer à une session de formation pour des missionnaires, à Bruxelles. Frère Didier nous a très bien éclairé sur la Mission dans le Nouveau Testament. D’autres intervenants nous ont invité à réfléchir sur l’approche des autres réligions et d’autres cultures et la « Rencontre » d’autres croyants avec une expérience de Dieu différente de la notre mais aussi valide. Une formation intensive cloturée par une semaine de pélérinage et retraite à la surce de notre charisme franciscain à Assise et d’autres lieux franciscains. Nous avons reçu une grande richesse qui est lá pour être méditée et intégrée dans nos vies et nos rélations entant que missionnaires.

Pour moi, d’abord, « une rémise en question », par une rélecture de ma propre pratique, du régard posé sur la réalité, de la façon d’approcher les personnes, des méthodes et du langage utilisé. Mais aussi des convictions a rénouveller et à affermir, par exemple : « … devenir disciple et missionnaire, conscience du trésor porté en des vases d’argile, … vous m’appellez maître et Seigneur… faites comme j’ai fait pour vous… » etc… Et puis, la conscience de que la Mission est, avant tout, la RENCONTRE de l’autre par le chemin de l’amour et aussi, qu’il est important de marcher ensemble vers Dieu. Merci à l’Ordre des Capucins pour ce cadeau béni. Il reste maintenant de se laisser transformer pour devenir des meilleurs témoins de l’amour du Seigneur pour l’humanité.

Frère Lori Antonio Vergani

* 1957, Caxias do Sul - RGS – Brésil,
Responsable de la Mission des Capucins en Haiti

Brussels // Bruxelles - next course, prochain cours, prossimo corso

2011-05-09T11:04:00.004+02:00

The next course of our formation program for missionaries will be done in English from 30th August to 26th November 2011.

It is meant for all those brothers who are preparing to leave their own culture and to go to a “Mission”. The past has shown, that participation was more fruitful for those who had already made an experience in a specific mission area. So we specially invite Missionaries who recently started working in the “Mission”. The session wants to be an interactive workshop and not so much an academic teaching. But we would expect also some reading. The condition is knowledge of the English language.

I would like to ask the Major Superiors to let me know me the names of brothers who are interested in participating in this kind of a formation programme. Deadline: May 15th 2011!

Le prochain cours formation pour les nouveaux missionnaires sera donné en anglais, du 30 HaoûtH au 26 novembre 2011.

Ce cours est destiné à tous les frères qui se préparent à laisser leur culture et à aller en « mission ». «Cela vaut aussi pour ceux qui vont du sud au nord de l’Inde ou en Europe». Sont invités aussi les missionnaires qui ont commencé à travailler en «mission». Une condition: connaître le anglais. J’invite les Supérieurs Majeurs à me communiquer les noms des frères qui sont intéressés à participer à ce type de programme de formation. Date d’échéance : 15 mai 2011.

Il prossimo corso per la formazione dei nuovi missionari in inglese avrà luogo dal 30 agosto al 26 novembre 2011.

Il corso è destinato a tutti quei frati che si preparano a lasciare la propria cultura e ad andare in una “Missione” (termine che è applicabile anche a coloro che vanno dall’India del Sud nell’India del Nord o a coloro che vanno in Europa). I missionari con una certa esperienza nel paese della loro missione hanno potuto profittare meglio del corso. Invitiamo per questo specialmente i missionari che hanno cominciato di recente a lavorare in “Missione”. Condizione è che conoscano il inglese.
Vorrei chiedere ai Superiori maggiori che mi comunichino i nomi di frati che sono interessati a partecipare a questa forma di programma di formazione. Ultimo termine è il 15 maggio prossimo.

WORLD FORUM: THEOLOGY IN LIBERATION PERSPECTIVE 2011DAKAR, SENEGAL

2011-03-19T12:22:00.002+01:00

The fourth edition of the World Forum on Theology and Liberation (WFTL) had halted on February 5 to 11, in Dakar, Senegal, during the 10th World Social Forum. In this edition, the WFTL had tacked part among initiatives of groups and social movements that had present from different world regions that shape out the WSF of a plural and collective process.

The WFTL has be present in Dakar with a group of 110 men and women theologians of different regions of the world, in order to contribute to this process based on the dialogue between religious traditions and social practices. The Locus Theologicus of Life, people's day-by-day life, as prior and "canon" in order to well interpretation of histories, religious traditions, Scriptures, etc, has been the higher point of the forum.

Br. Luiz Carlos Susin OFMCap is the Executive secretary of the Forum.

Find more information at the official web site of the Forum.

Br. Varghese Manimala OFMCap, Director, Henry Martyn Institute (HMI)in Hyderabad, India, attended the Forum. Read his reflection here.

Find a report from the Comboni missionaries here.

Capuchins helping in Japan

2011-03-16T17:47:00.004+01:00

I received this letter from the Provincial of the Capuchin Province of New York and New England, USA. The province, together with brothers from India, is serving in Japan. I publish it here, because it informs you about our brothers there. Until now they are save and have not been harmed by the earthquake and by the Tsunami. If you want to help or you know people who want to do so, our brothers will be a good address.

El mismo articulo en Español se encuentra aqui.

New York, March, 2011

Dear Friends,

We are present in 11 locations in Japan, bringing spiritual and physical assistance to those who have been displaced and suffering as a result of last week’s devastation.

The Friars of the Province of St. Mary have been in Japan since 1947. Never has the need for their ministry been greater. The eighteen men serving throughout the country were not in the immediate area of the destruction and are safe and sound. They are mobilizing to help in whatever way they can. Some are already en route to parishes closer to the worst-hit areas, despite severe infrastructure barriers.

We ask your assistance in this critical time of need. First of all, please join us in praying for the victims. Secondly, please consider making a donation. Your gift will go directly to our Capuchin Franciscan missionaries in Japan to help them immediately with the efforts to serve the growing number of victims who are grieving and traumatized. Help us help them now!

Fr. John Gallagher, OFM Cap.
Provincial Minister
www.capuchin.org

Members of Solidarity with Southern Sudan - Images | KairosPhotos - Images by Paul Jeffrey

2011-01-27T15:26:00.000+01:00

Members of Solidarity with Southern Sudan - Images | KairosPhotos - Images by Paul Jeffrey

Capuchins and other religiouse activ in Southern Sudan

2011-01-27T15:15:00.004+01:00

Southern Sudan just voted to become independend. After long years of war there are many needs. Solidarity with Southern Sudan trains teachers, nurses and pastoral personnel in several locations throughout Southern Sudan. This initiative was inspired by the 2004 Rome Congress on Consecrated Life, Passion for Christ Passion for Humanity.It is a project where many congregations work together. Capuchins could - with the help from benefactors from Quebec - 350.000 USD to start the project.

At present two groups of students nurses are following the programme in the Catholic Health Training Institute (CHTI, Wau) and another group will join them later this year. Over 700 teachers are currently receiving in-service training in many centers. Now that the building of two teacher training colleges is almost finished in Malakal and Yambio, we look forward to beginning the pre-service training programme later this year. The pastoral programme has already sponsored two very important initatives - "101 Days for a Peaceful Referendum in Sudan" and a national workshop on "Reconcilitaion for a Just and Lasting Peace" facilitated by Fr. Robert Schreiter. Both these ventures were supported financially and logistically by Catholic Relief Services (CRS). Many other workshops and programmes are being planned for the coming months and years.
Therefore our staff of 25

More information click here.

100 anni fa - L'erezione del Vicariato dell'Eritrea affidato ai Cappuccini

2011-01-04T12:01:00.004+01:00

La data storica dell’erezione del Vicariato dell’Eritrea è il 7 febbraio 1911. Tale è infatti il giorno e l’anno del decreto San Pio X elevava la Prefettura Apostolica dell’Eritrea a Vicariato Apostolico. A reggere la nuova circoscrizione veniva nominato P. Camillo Carrara da Albino. Consacrato vescovo a Milano il 26 febbraio 1911, partiva per l’Eritrea con 9 frati cappuccini lombardi, sbarcando a Massawa il 31 marzo, e giungendo ad Asmara il 3 aprile.

Da quel giorno alla data della sua morte il 15 giugno 1924, svolse un’intensissima e instancabile opera pastorale e di evangelizzazione. Per citare solo qualche esempio della sua multiforme attività: la particolare cura per il seminario di Keren, la Tipografia Francescana, la scuola di arti e mestieri di Segheneiti, gli inizi dell’evangelizzazione in terra cunama, l’erezione del Collegio Etiopico in Vaticano, gli inizi o il consolidamento della fede cattolica in vari villaggi dell’Eritrea, la costruzione della cattedrale Beata Vergine del SS. Rosario in Asmara, ecc.

Le tre Eparchie che attualmente costituiscono la Chiesa locale sono infatti frutto di questa evoluzione storica, che ha nell’istituzione del Vicariato il suo seme e la sua pietra angolare. Chi ha accompagnato questa crescita a prezzo di grandi sacrifici e di una generosa abnegazione, ha portato la nostra comunità cattolica alla sua maturazione come chiesa locale, sono stati i nostri Padri Cappuccini.

L’occasione per l’erezione del Vicariato fu la nascita dell’Eritrea come entità politico-geografica nel 1890.

Più di 6 Millioni di Dolari per 50 progetti, 260 missionari e più di 1570 frati in formazione - Solidarietà Economica nel 2011

2010-12-14T11:09:00.005+01:00

Nella foto: La Commissione per la Solidarietà economica con fra Piotr, il Promotore della Solidarietà.

Per l'anno 2011 i bisogni dell'Ordine sono sempre tanti e all’Ufficio della Solidarietà Economica è stato chiesto di impegnarsi ancora una volta per un aiuto che totalizza la cifra di 6.250.000 USD. Tale somma comprende il sostegno a più di 50 progetti, il mantenimento di 260 missionari cappuccini presenti in 18 nazioni e la cura della formazione iniziale di 1570 giovani frati residenti in quattro continenti. È inoltre necessario un altro milione di Euro per la formazione accademica universitaria di 80 studenti del Collegio Internazionale “San Lorenzo da Brindisi” di Roma. C'È bisogno del tuo aiuto.

Auch 2011 steht der ORden vor Herausforderungen. Der Promotor der Solidarität muss insgesamt 6.250.000 Dollar zusammenbringen. Mit diesem Betrag werden über 50 Projekte, der Lebensunterhalt von 260 Missionaren in 18 Ländern sowie die Grundausbildung von 1570 jungen Brüdern finanziert. Darüber hinaus brauchen wir eine weitere Million Euro für die postgraduierten Ausbildung in unserem Internationalen Kolleg in Rom. Jede Hilfe ist willkommen.

100 years of Capuchin life in the Congo

2010-11-30T15:40:00.002+01:00

ANTWERP, Belgium – A hundred years have now passed since on December 1st 1910 the first Flemish Capuchin missionaries arrived in Congo.
A book remembers “A Hundred Years of Capuchin Life in the Congo: 1910-2010”. Written in four languages (Flemish, French, Italian and Lingala), under the direction of Br. Kamiel Teuns, the book traces the course of missionary evangelisation by Belgian and Italian Capuchins until the creation of the General Vice-Province of Congo.
Not only did the Capuchins implant the Order in Congo, they also set up missions, trained the local clergy, made great contributions to the development of the people through development and health- care projects, teaching, and putting the local languages into written form. They also trained catechists, translated the Bible into the vernacular languages and introduced a liturgical rite known as the Zaire rite. The implantation of the Order and the missions was made possible, in large part, thanks to the commitment and hard work of lay brothers.
After various previous attempts the formation of local brothers only began in 1977. It was in 1994 that the General Vice-Province of Congo was established, currently with 70 brothers, of whom 2 are Belgian and 2 Italian. The centenary is being celebrated in all the parishes of the Diocese of Molegbe (in the North-West of the Democratic Republic of Congo), where the first missionaries, with their hard-headed Flemish determination, braved wars, disease, snakes and imprisonment,… and sometimes even gave their lives to ensure that the charism of Francis would flourish and a young local Church be born with native bishops, priests and religious men and women.

Preaching with their life!

2010-11-14T10:47:00.002+01:00

Missionary course at Brussels ends.

After nearly 3 months of program about Franciscan Mission the 11 missionaries participating at the Brussels course moved on Sunday 14th to Italy. They will make a pilgrimage and a retreat at the Franciscan places. It is the moment for them to internalize the learning from the weeks before.

Sunday 7th Minister general Br. Mauro Jöhri presided Eucharist in the big parish church of the friary at Brussels. It was to commemorate the 10 years of the program. In 2000 the OFM started the international community “Our Lady of Nations” in order to prepare brothers for the international mission projects of the Order. Five years ago the Conventuals and Capuchins joined the program. It is since then: Inter-franciscan, inter-national and inter-generational (brings new and experienced missionaries together). Since 2005 40 Capuchins have participated at the course.

The Capuchin participants were: Br. FRANCIS ASSIS Edwin Monis OFMCap (from India working in Japan) , Br. VELAYAPPILLIL Mathai Paily RENNY OFMCap ( from India and working in Assam, North East India), Br. KATTA Melkiyore OFMCap (from India and preparing for China). Br. Bill Frigo from the Calvary Province (USA) represented the Capuchins in the coordination team, working together with Br. Vicente Imhof OFMConv (Germany-Peru) and the new appointed team from the OFM. Br. GIANFRANCESCO SISTO (Italy – Kenya) and Br. DIDIER VAN HECKE (France - Belgium).

The program includes cultural and academic sessions. It pretends also to be a spiritual process. During the evaluation held with Br. Mauro, the missionaries expressed how much they learned. Even if certain thing could be changed, the overall view was positive. Some mentioned, that there was no preparation at all before they left for the mission. Some expressed clearly, that they will go back to the mission with a new approach and willing to preach with their life and not so much with words only.

The next session will be in French in 2011 from March 1st to May 29th.
The next English session will take place in Autumn 2011 from September to November.

Tsunami hits Catholic Villages

2010-10-28T16:10:00.001+02:00

Bishop Martinus Situmorang, Bishop of Padang, is Capuchin and at the moment the president of the INdonesian Bishops Conference. He informed FIDES about the recent Tsunami close to Sumatra.

ASIA/INDONESIA - Padang (Agenzia Fides) – The most seriously affected population in the tsunami that hit the islands of Metawai (opposite the island of Sumatra) are the Catholic towns, Fides learns from Bishop Martinus Situmorang, Bishop of Padang, the diocese of this area. "Southern Metawai, on the western side of the islands ravaged by the tidal wave, is the site of Catholic villages. The approximately 8,000 faithful present have suffered heavy losses," the bishop tells Fides.
"We have taken action without hesitation, in this disaster that affects us personally. We have sent down first aid. As a diocese, we rented a boat that will depart for the islands tomorrow carrying humanitarian aid. A team of Caritas is already in the tsunami zone and is working alongside the four priests and four nuns who live in the area. The religious are working on the frontline in helping and bringing comfort to the population," said the bishop who, through the Fides launches an urgent appeal. "To the faithful of the Mentawai Islands, I say: this is a disaster that has devastated your lives, but do not be discouraged! Now is not the time to ask ourselves how and why, but we extend our heart and hands to God, with faith and prayer. Do not be afraid, but be ready to hope that the Lord and our brothers are close to you in your suffering."
Of all the faithful of the Diocese of Padang, Sumatra, Bishop Situmorang "expects a great deal of solidarity. It is not time to argue or waste time, but to urgently bring help and show real love to those who are victims of the disaster." (PA) (Agenzia Fides 28/10/2010)

UN MUNDO SIN FRONTERAS

2010-10-25T08:51:00.011+02:00

(Riassunto in Italiano dopo le foto alla fine.)

INTRODUCCIÓN
Hermanos, reciban un abrazo fraterno de paz y bien; hemos sido llamados, formados y enviados.
Desde La Delegación Capuchina, en Guinea Ecuatorial, África, este mensaje de comunión en este mes de las misiones, cerca ya del día 24 de octubre, día de especial oración por las misiones y los misioneros.
Los Hermanos Menores Capuchinos llevamos 21 años de presencia continua en estas bellas tierras africanas. Los 15 primeros años fueron los Hermanos de La Provincia de Valencia quienes asumieron la responsabilidad de poner cimientos para que el carisma de Hermanos Menores fuese sembrado en medio de nuestras comunidades.
Desde hace 6 años los Hermanos de La Provincia de Colombia hemos continuado con el servicio iniciado y, aprovechando los cimientos ya sembrados, queremos dar pasos que hagan la presencia aún más significativa, sobre todo desde nuestro testimonio de fraternidad, comunión y cercanía y respeto con los fieles.
LA IGLESIA DE AMERICA LATINA ES MISIONERA
En el mes de mayo de 2007 La Iglesia latino americana celebraba su V Conferencia Episcopal, “Aparecida”; alentando, motivando e impulsando a todos a ser discípulos y misioneros, saliendo de sus propios predios y llegando a la otra orilla; yo era diácono en Valledupar, Colombia, en Las Tres Avemarías. Con gran interés leímos, oramos, soñamos con dar pasos para que este mensaje pudiese hacerse realidad. Yo también quería llegar lejos, ya miraba con esperanza la llegada a la Misión en Guinea Ecuatorial.
Hoy, además de los hermanos Colombianos, sirve con su vida en esta misión un Hermano Ecuatoriano, de La Viceprovincia de Ecuador, un Hermano Español y un Hermano Guineano, ambos de La Provincia de Valencia.
Con lo anterior lo que quiero decir es que esta presencia está totalmente abierta para acoger nuevos Hermanos, nuevos rostros, nuevas provincias y viceprovincias y hacer de nuestra misión un testimonio carismático un hermoso arco iris con acentos, cantos, miradas diversas; un pentecostés que se mezcle y entienda las melodías africanas de nuestros diversos grupos étnicos, una multiplicidad de lenguas que se entiendan por el único carisma del Amor, La Paz y el Bien.
A nosotros, y desde nuestra opción de Hermanos Menores, nuestro Hermano Mauro Joüri, Ministro General, es su carta circular sobre las misiones, “La Misión en el Corazón de la Orden”, nos alienta a salir de nuestros propios proyectos y encaminar nuestra vocación más allá del pequeño mundo que nos circunda y presenta la figura, el ejemplo de grandes misioneros en la vida de La Orden. Quiero ir muy lejos…
MI EXPERIENCIA DE MISIÓN EN GUINEA ECUATORIAL
Aún con el deseo de partir a La Misión es cierto que a veces el salir presenta ciertos temores, verdad que llega a la mente y al corazón un sin número de cuestiones que quieren opacar el espíritu misionero. ¿Qué será de mi salud, los paludismos, las tifoideas, la salmonelosis?, ¿porqué irme tan lejos?, ¿qué me darán de comida?, ¿cómo me acogerán?, ¿qué costumbres nuevas me tocará asumir? etc., pero no son solo problemas lo que realmente encontramos. Por dura que sea la misión, siempre es más lo que se recibe que lo que se da, es incalculable el fruto de vida que se recoge por lo poco de uno que muera.
Dejar caer el grano en tierra, dejar que la vida viva muriendo cada día, vivir muriendo y morir viviendo desde la comunión con los hermanos; morir al “blanco” que llevamos dentro, al blanco que al llegar a tierra de negros cree traer soluciones, cultura, civilización, educación; morir al creer que venimos a salvarles, a traerles a Dios, a enseñarles a orar. “Morir al fariseo que llevamos dentro”. Morir al deseo de aparecer y ser poderosos ante ellos negándonos a recibir sus dones, su cultura, su fe, su Dios, sus tradiciones, su forma de orar… Morir como el propio Jesús desde Belén, presentándonos débiles, limitados, envueltos en “pañales- debilidad – necesidad”, necesitados de ellos.
Hoy, dos años y medio después de haber llegado a Guinea Ecuatorial, África, me siento feliz. Lo digo con toda certeza, valió la pena salir, dejar algo, cambiar familia, hermanos, comida, amigos. Vale la pena llegar a un mundo nuevo, abrir el corazón a otras posibilidades, dejarse enriquecer por las múltiples diferencias, permitir que la cultura diversa me contagie, que mil rostros y nombres nuevos se alojen en mi corazón.
IR… IR SIEMPRE A DEJARSE SORPRENDER… TODO ES NUEVO
Ir, ir continuamente a ver otros mundos, otros nombres con sus “mundos” y sus vidas; ir, ir sin parar porque también los otros vienen y van; ir, ir sin desmallar porque la compañía cercana – hermana de otros hermanos fortalece, suplen las “carencias”; ir, ir sintiéndonos enviados por Jesús, por Francisco, un envío, un ir que nunca ha parado y que nunca parará.
Ir, ir sí, pero sin prejuicios, sin sandalias, sin prepotencias, sin el mundo occidental, sin soluciones, sin respuestas. Ir con la mente y el corazón abierto y dispuesto a dejarse sorprender por Dios, ir dispuestos a hacernos y hacerles preguntas, por supuesto a que nos hagan preguntas, ir enteramente impregnados y ansiosos de minoridad, simplicidad, fraternidad. Ir a encontrar y ver a Dios.
ANTONIO MARÍA CLARET
No me es posible pasar por alto la vida de este gran Misionero, me preguntarán por qué y esta es la respuesta: Desde hace 127 años los Misioneros Claretianos han venido dejando su vida y sembrando de Evangelio el suelo ecuatoguineano. El día domingo, 24 de octubre de 2010, los Misioneros Claretianos celebran La Vida de su fundador, la solemnidad de San Antonio María Claret.
A Estos grandes Misioneros, que les apremiaba el Amor que de Dios habían recibido, se debe gran parte de lo que es hoy La Iglesia de Guinea Ecuatorial. Incontables son los hermanos que murieron pocos meses, aún días después de pisar suelo ecuatoguineano y sin embargo la muerte de tantos y tan jóvenes Misioneros en vez de mermar y llenar de temor, les colmó de ímpetu y valor, llevando a que muchos decidieran partir, aún sabiendo que nunca volverían. Eran tiempos difíciles, finales del siglo XIX y principios del XX.
Con un abrazo fraterno de Paz y Bien me despido reiterando a todos los hermanos que son Bienvenidos a esta su Misión. Dios les trae y les espera.
Hno. Willam Giraldo Zuluaga OFMCap
Octubre de 2010, Bata, Guinea Ecuatorial, África

LA MIA ESPERIENZA DI MISSIONE IN GUINEA EQUATORIALE –
Testimonianza missionaria

Pur con il sicuro desiderio di partire per “la missione”, alle volte ci si parano davanti certi timori quando si tratta di partire realmente, ci si presentano alla mente e al cuore numerosi interrogativi che tentano di appannare lo spirito missionario: Che cosa succederà alla mia salute, sarà minacciata dal paludismo, dalle febbri tifoidee, dalla salmonellosi? Perché poi partire per andare così lontano? Cosa mangerò? Come mi accoglieranno? Quali nuovi modi di vivere dovrò assumere?, ecc. Ma i problemi non sono certamente le sole cose che ci vengono incontro. In effetti, per quanto dura sia la missione, sempre è più quello che si riceve che quello che si dà ed è davvero incalcolabile il frutto di vita che si ottiene solamente per la piccola morte a cui ci si sottomette.

Lasciar cadere il grano in terra, fare che la vita viva morendo ogni giorno, vivere morendo e morire vivendo nell’attuare la comunione con i fratelli; morire al “bianco” che portiamo dentro di noi, al bianco che giungendo in terra di neri crede di portare soluzioni, cultura, civiltà, educazione; morire al credere che veniamo per salvarli, per portarli a Dio, per insegnar loro a pregare. “Morire al fariseo che portiamo dentro”. Morire al desiderio di apparire e di essere potenti davanti a loro, non volendo ricevere i loro doni, la loro cultura, la loro fede, il loro Dio, le loro tradizioni, il loro modo di pregare… Morire come ha fatto lo stesso Gesù a cominciare da Betlem, presentandoci deboli, limitati, avvolti “in fasce – debolezza – necessità”, bisognosi di loro.

Oggi, due anni e mezzo dopo di essere arrivato in Guinea Equatoriale, mi sento felice. Lo dico con assoluta certezza: è valsa la pena di partire, di lasciare qualcosa, di cambiare famiglia, fratelli, cibo, amici. Vale la pena di giungere in un mondo nuovo, aprire il cuore ad altre possibilità, lasciarsi arricchire dalle numerose differenze, permettere che una cultura diversa mi contagi, che mille volti e nomi nuovi alloggino nel mio cuore.

Il fratello William Giraldo Zuluaga è colombiano. Dal 2008 lavora come missionario in Guinea Equatoriale. È il superiore della piccola comunità di frati che provengono dalla Colombia, Equatore, Spagna e Guinea Equatoriale ( vedi anche: http://adgentesofmcap.blogspot.com/ ).I cappuccini sono arrivati in questo paese africano in 1989 dalla Provincia di Valencia. 2006 la responsabilità della missione è passata alla Provincia di Colombia.

In Mission to Germany and Switzerland

2010-10-13T16:05:00.002+02:00

General Curia organizes a meeting for friars working in the project of "Solidarity of personnel"

Zell am Harmersbach (Germany): On October 5th and 6th 2010 the little town in the Black forest saw a group of 12 Indian Capuchins gathering in the local friary. The general definitory had asked the friars working in “Solidarity of personnel” to gather according to regions, in order to “animate and to give them an opportunity to share their experiences of working in a different religious and social culture, in a different language, with friars who have a different formation and history”.
The meeting for the firars working in the Mission in Germany and Switzerland was organized by Br. Ephrem Bucher and Br. Helmut Rakowski (members of the commission of Solidarity of Personnel). They also asked for some feed back to the Vademecum published ad experimentum on December 8th 2009.
The meeting was considered very positive. The atmosphere was open and very fraternal.
The opportunity to exchange experiences was not given in the past in such a way. (Even if in the past some meetings were arranged on the level of provinces, some friars have never participated because they arrived afterwards.) The Vadmecum was considered useful and good, the problem was much more seen in the implantation on the level of the province or of the local fraternity.
Beside some recommendations to improve the Vademecum and it’s implantation in the provinces of Germany and Switzerland the friars considered it important for all provinces to
1. Promote a missionary spirit in all provinces.
2. Assure a good preparation of the language before coming. The language course in the new country must be serious (not just 1 hour a day). Emphasis not only on grammar but also on pronunciation. (Take in consideration courses with specialists who train actors…)
In Germany are working brothers from the provinces of St. Joseph and Pavanathma, while in the French speaking part of Switzerland the province of Andhra Orissa is present.

Participants:
1. Br. Alexander Madathil
2. Br. Alexander Joseph
3. Br. Jose Vettikatte
4. Br. Scaria Sabumon Purayidathil
5. Br. Sunil Kachappally
6. Br. Jeby Muckachirayil
7. Fr. Inna Reddy
8. Fr. Kiran Kumar Arravi
9. Fr. Francis Basani
10. Fr. Satish Karumanchi
11. Fr. Abishek Kumar Gali
12. Fr. Jospeh Madanu
13. Br. Ephrem Bucher – Provincial Switzerland
14. Br. Werner Labus, Vicar provincial – Germany
15. Br. Helmut Rakowski – General Mission Secretary Rome

Where does the petrol dollars go? Missing transparency

2010-10-13T15:23:00.000+02:00

AFRICA - Several African oil-producing countries are at the bottom of the list in transparency of oil revenues
Rome (Agenzia Fides) – Some of the major African oil-producers are among the countries with the least amount of transparency regarding use of oil revenues, according to the Revenue Watch Institute (RWI), a non-profit insitute that promotes transparency in the management of oil, gas and other minerals.
Equatorial Guinea, , Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Tanzania, and Ghana were cited as countries with the scant revenue transparency in Africa, while Brazil and Norway ranked highest in comprehensive revenue transparency for making public detailed information about the key resources.
Russia, Mexico, and Chile came in second, third, and fifth place. Turkmenistan ranked last, below Equatorial Guinea and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The 56-page report compares how much the 41 governments disclose publicly about the money they receive for oil, gas and minerals exploitation, and about contracts and other basic data. In nearly all these countries, natural resources are public assets, and the revenues are managed in trust by the government on behalf of its citizens.
“We found that, in too many countries, governments give citizens little information about this crucial part of the economy,” said RWI director Karin Lissakers. “Without access to information, the public has very limited influence on how governments manage the resources and how governments use the revenues.”
Openness about how income is used, is important to combat corruption and help lower citizens' mistrust of their governments, the report said. Transparent, accountable management of these revenues is also fundamental to economic development and political stability. Transparency is one of good governance's essential building blocks.
The bishops of several African countries (like Nigeria and Chad) have repeatedly denounced the waste, mismanagement, and corruption in the use of often abundant natural resources on their own territory. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 13/10/2010)

Course for Mission

2010-09-08T09:53:00.009+02:00

On September 1st started a new session of our “Course for Mission” in Brussels. The three General secretaries for missionary animation welcomed 11 friars from the 1st Order to reflect until the end of November about our Franciscan mission.
Among the missionaries are three Capuchins from India, called to serve in different parts of Asia.

Br. Bill Frigo from the Calvary Province (USA) represents the Capuchins in the coordination team. He will work together with Br. Vicente Imhof OFMConv (Germany-Peru) and the new appointed team from the OFM. Br. GIANFRANCESCO SISTO (Italy – Kenya) and Br. DIDIER VAN HECKE (France - Belgium). The program includes cultural and academic sessions. It pretends also to be a spiritual process and finishes with a pilgrimage to the Franciscan places in and around Assisi and a guided retreat.

The participants are:
Br. ALUTULI Abraham OFMConv (Zambia), Br. KAYULA Timothy Mpaluka OFMConv (Zambia), Br. KANIYAMPARAMBIL Shaji Mathew OFMConv (India), Br. AROTTAPPURAM NICLOVOSE Vinu OFMConv (India), Br. FRANCIS ASSIS Edwin Monis OFMCap (India) , Br. VELAYAPPILLIL Mathai Paily RENNY OFMCap (India), Br. KATTA Melkiyore OFMCap (India), Br. NERI Giuseppe BEPPE OFM (Italy), Br. BETO Timoteus Titus Petrus OFM (Indonesia), Br. GOLHA Masseo Patrik OFM (Slovakia), Br. KWIATNOWSKI Lukasz OFM (Poland)

(Standing from left to right:) Br. Benjamin, Br. Vincent, Br. Bill, Br. Beppe, Br. Helmut, Br. Abraham, Br. Renny, Br. Beto, Br. Didier, Br. Edwin, Br. Patrik, Br. Massimo, Br. Lukasz.
(First row f.l.t.r.:) Br. Jan Lan, Br. Melkiyore, Br. Timothy, Br. Gianfrancesco.

The coordinators

Visit to Brussels

First session

In the refectory

Mission is offering the treasure of our faith

2010-08-01T09:18:00.000+02:00

Free in the image of God from Taizé on Vimeo.

Called to animate our Mission

2010-07-13T09:36:00.007+02:00

The new mission commission:

from the left to the right: Paulus Nag, St. Fidelis, India, Marek Przeczewski, Warsaw, Poland, Isidor Peterhans, Tanzania, Rector of the Int. College, Helmut Rakowski, Germany, Segr. general for missionary animation, Agapit Mroso, Tanzania, Definitor general,Piotr Komorniczak, Ukraina, Promotore of Solidarity, Enzo Canozzi, Genova, Italy, Larry Webber, Detroit, USA, Luiz Carlos Susin, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

New Mission commission meets for the first time

2010-07-03T15:46:00.003+02:00

The first meeting of the new appointed Mission Commission takes place from 6th to 8th of July 2010 at Frascati. Nine are the members, appointed in January 2010 by the Minister General in order “to engage in profound reflection on the missionary dimension of the Order today, and to draft or propose concrete steps that need to be taken”:
Br. Enzo Cannozi, Genova, Italy,
Br. Piotr Komorniczak, Promoter of Solidarity,
Br. Agapit Mroso, Definitor general,
Br. Paulus Nag, St. Fidelis, India,
Br. Isidor Peterhans, Rector of the Int. College,
Br. Marek Przeczewski, Warsaw, Poland,
Br. Helmut Rakowski, Segretary general for missionary animation,
Br. Luiz Carlos Susin, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil,
Br. Larry Webber, Detroit, USA.

The first meeting will serve as an introduction to the present situation of our mission activities including Economic Solidarity and the Brussels formation program for missionaries. The friars will reflect deeply on our missionary dimension, based on the Circular letter n.5 “Mission at the heart of the Order” and on a paper prepared by the General Segretary for Missionary Animation “Reclaiming our Mission – Renewing the missionary activities (Missio ad gentes) of the Order.”

Tavola di Animazione

2010-06-30T09:49:00.002+02:00

All’inizio dell’attuale governo dell’Ordine, il Ministro generale e i Definitori avevano espresso il desiderio di avere una “Tavola d’Animazione” che includesse tutti i Segretariati della Curia per un lavoro ben organizzato e sinergico tra i vari ambiti di animazione dell’Ordine.

Fra Helmut Rakowski, a seguito di alcuni incontri preliminari, ha organizzato e animato questo incontro del 16 e 17 giugno che si è svolto in due fasi: la prima in Curia Generale dove ha partecipato il Ministro Generale, e la seconda a Frascati.

A questo ormai terzo incontro hanno partecipato: fra Helmut Rakowski Segretario Generale per la Missione, fra Piotr Komorniczak Pomotore della Solidarietà, fra Bernd Beermann Direttore di Giustizia Pace ed Ecologia, fra Rocco Timpano Segretario Generale della Formazion e fra Prince Valiyakunnel, fra Marek Miszczyński e fra Piero Véliz membri del Segretariato della Formazione.

Incontrarsi è sempre una grande possibilità di conoscersi e di sgomberare i canali della comunicazione. Comunicare aiuta a coordinare e ad avere obbiettivi comuni senza spreco di energie solitarie. In questo modo l’azione di animazione diventa più incisiva. Questa è la sfida evidenziata in questo incontro e che lo Stesso Ministro ha sottolineato.

Il blog del UGF

Brussels // Bruxelles // Inscription open for English session 2010

2010-05-04T16:53:00.000+02:00

The next course of our formation program for missionaries will be done in English from 30th August to 21st November 2010.

Le prochain cours formation pour les nouveaux missionnaires sera donné en anglais, du 30 août au 21 novembre 2010.

Il prossimo corso per la formazione dei nuovi missionari in inglese avrà luogo dal 30 agosto al 21 novembre 2010.

2010-04-04T09:49:00.002+02:00

Christus resurrexit! Resurrexit vere!
Christ is Risen! Truly He is Risen!
Christus ist auferstanden! Er ist wahrhaft auferstanden!
Christus is opgestaan! Hij is waarlijk opgestaan!
Christus het opgestaan! Hy het waarlik opgestaan!
Kristur er upprisinn! Hann er sannarlega upprisinn!
Crist ha ressuscitat! Veritablement ha ressuscitat!
Christ est ressuscité! Il est vraiment ressuscité!
Cristo è risorto! È veramente risorto!
Cristo ressuscitou! Em verdade ressuscitou!
¡Cristo ha resucitado! ¡En verdad ha resucitado!
Χριστός ἀνέστη! Ἀληθῶς ἀνέστη! (Khristós Anésti! Alithós Anésti!)
Хрыстос уваскрос! Сапраўды ўваскрос! (Chrystos uvaskros! Sapraŭdy ŭvaskros!)
Христос воскрес! Воістину воскрес! (Chrystos voskres! Voistynu voskres!)
Христос воскрес! Воистину воскрес! (Christos voskres! Voistinu voskres!)
Si Cristo ay nabuhay! Siya nga ay nabuhay!
Kristus sudah bangkit! Dia benar-benar sudah bangkit!
基督復活了他確實復活了 (Jidu fuhuo-le! Ta queshi fuhuo-le!)

Church agencies form one of the world's largest humanitarian organizations

2010-03-26T09:55:00.000+01:00

EUROPE/SWITZERLAND - Over 100 Church development organizations unite in an important humanitarian alliance
Geneva (Agenzia Fides) – The ACT Alliance, which unites more than 100 organizations supported by the Church for assistance in worldwide development, was formally launched on March 24 with celebrations in Geneva and around the world. The new ACT Alliance is one of the world's largest humanitarian organizations, engaged in 125 countries with a budget of 1.5 billion U.S. dollars. It deals with the ability to provide emergency food, housing, water, and sanitation services, as well as programs to reduce poverty in poorer countries. This new institution is the merger of ACT International, a network of assistance for natural disasters, and its sister organization, ACT Development. Through ACT, the followers of the churches around the world have been at the forefront in Haiti since January 12, the day of the earthquake that destroyed the island. Six weeks later, it assisted the survivors of the earthquake that hit Chile. The organization is committed to the poorest of the world, fighting for humanitarian causes, against suffering and injustice. ACT members are organizations involved in the community for some time. At the inauguration in Geneva, the Secretary General of the ACT Alliance said that the establishment of this organization provides an opportunity to better connect emergency humanitarian assistance and sustainable development. "When the emergency has passed and the funds are gone, the churches continue to be present," said the Secretary-General. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 25/3/2010)

My nomination for the first Lufthansa A380

2010-03-24T12:19:00.000+01:00

I need your help: Vote for my proposal, but please with all 5 stars! thank you.
My nomination for the first Lufthansa A380: "The A380 the new Lufthansa flagship, a special experience, the Lufthansa A380. Find out more about the fascination of a new era in air travel. Take part, Raffles, Downloads, Photos, Video, Gallery, First Flight in 2010."

Four Capuchin Missionaries reflect about Franciscan Mission today

2010-03-23T11:44:00.003+01:00

Four Capuchins take part in the missionary formation program in Brussels. The French session started at the beginning of March in the international OFM-Community at Brussels. Br. Aubert Bertrand OFMCap took the role of Animator, together with Br. Damien OFM and the other friars who form the fraternity of “Our Lady of the Nations”. The program aims to foster reflection about Franciscan mission in today’s world.
Read more about this missionaries and the program here.

News from Haiti on ofmcap.org

2010-03-15T15:16:00.003+01:00

More information about the work of the Capuchins here in different languages. Click!

A foundation for the Pima comunity in Northern Mexiko

2010-03-09T18:06:00.002+01:00

A Foundation is being established in Sonora, Mexico entitled "FUNDACION BEAUMONT" (Beaumont Foundation) named after our own Capuchin brother Fr. David Beaumont. It is a foundation that is being established for community development to rid the lower Pima Region of poverty and to instill pride in its cultural roots. It will promote sustainable processes with a network of institutions to lessen poverty and to preserve the indigenous culture of the Pimas that are present in the states of Sonora and Chihuahua. The foundation commits itself to help develop economically the Pima communities so that they can generate greater income and provide productive opportunities for the greater well-being and quality of life of the inhabitants of the Lower Pima Region.

This Foundation is being kicked off on Monday the 22nd of March, 2010 at 11:00 am with a ribbon cutting ceremony at which will be present the Governor of the State of Sonora, the Mayor of Yécora, the leaders of the Lower Pima Region, the representatives of the "Leader Pimería Baja Program" and other distinguished guests.

This Foundation is the wonderful fruition of the work of 25 years of Capuchin missionary ministry in northern Mexico. Our Capuchin brother Fr. David Beaumont, the missionary friars, the Pima communities, the sisters and all the lay ministers need to be commended for so much hard work and for all the sacrifices of love that they have made to make this day possible.

Capuchin Franciscans - Western America Province - USA

See the original message and picture here.

The suffering is horrendous. But the spirit of the Haitian people is greater -- and they remain filled with hope.

2010-03-02T22:23:00.003+01:00

An earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter Scale struck the Western Hemisphere´s poorest nation on Jan. 12, claiming more than 200,000 lives, with an estimated 300,000 injured and more than 1 million left homeless. In its wake, there has been an outpouring of aid from all over the world. But the need is even greater.

The Franciscan Friars are on the scene, trying to alleviate suffering and keep that hope alive.

On Feb. 8, a group of eight people led by the director of the Capuchin Missionary Association, Fray Elmig Soto Negron, OFM, Cap., left Puerto Rico for Haiti on the ferry from Mayaguez with a donated van filled with food, water, medicine and other relief supplies. In Santo Domingo they joined up with the Capuchin Friars in Mandinga, where the Friars are caring for some 10 people injured in the quake, and crossed the border into Haiti.

The first night was spent in the capital city of Port-au-Prince, scene of the greatest devastation from the quake whose epicenter was located just 25 miles west, near the town of Leogane.

¨The Haitian people are strong, you can see their spirit in Port-au-Prince despite the devastation,¨ said Fray Elmig. ¨Many picked up brooms to sweep the streets, and shovels to clear away the garbage. But the need is so much greater; they scarcely make a dent.¨

The group set out the next day for the enclave of Beraud, to the west, where four Capuchin Friars have a permanent presence and have erected a two-story parish house. The director of the mission, Fray Lori, is Brazilian. Fray Armand, the vicar, is Haitian, as is Fray Prospero, and the fourth member of the tiny community, Fray Bernard, is French.

As they traveled west, the group saw the tent cities that have sprung up around the country, housing entire families. A flattened cardboard box is the floor; the roof a length of cloth held up by sticks. It can only get worse when the rainy season begins.

There were also small makeshift white crosses marking vast mass graves.

And long, long lines of people waiting patiently for food and water.

¨But you could always see a smile,¨ said Fray Elmig. ¨People were friendly, even cordial. It consoled them to see us, to know that they were not alone -- that someone cared about them.¨

When the van arrived in Beraud, the Friars and their helpers unloaded and organized the supplies preparatory to distribution, which would begin in the morning. As a means of control, tickets were passed out to those having family members in Port-au-Prince, the criterion used for distribution of the aid.

More than 300 people received food, water and medicine that day.

The following day, the Friars were joined by the Franciscan Sisters of Leon, an order of nuns that came to the area some 40 years ago from Canada. Most of the sisters are now Haitian.

They traveled to Abacou, on the coast at Les Cayes, where an even tinier Capuchin mission consisting of Fray Francois, from France, and Fray Fernando, from the Dominican Republic, maintain a permanent presence.

More food, water and medicines were unloaded there for distribution.

Back at Beraud, the workers arranged the remaining relief supplies in the van for future distribution .

"We set up a little supermarket in the van, to make it easier to distribute the supplies," said Fray Elmig. "There was more than a week's worth left."

The group then traveled north to cross the border back to Mandinga, in preparation for their return trip by ferry to Puerto Rico, arriving the morning of Feb. 19.

But this won't be a one-time effort for the group from Puerto Rico, that includes Third Order Franciscans Taty, Rafael and Andres, as well as Francisco, Aida, Margarita and Eli.

Fray Elmig said they are setting up a collection center in Utuado, where the goods will be stored in the donated van for future distribution in Haiti.

"The need is so great," he said. "Plans are to return in three weeks to set up a pair of wells, for the Friars and the community there in Abacou, where they have neither water nor electricity. Another urgent need is education -- to build safe schools and provide them with educational materials. We also want to provide some toys for the children who have no classes right now or entertainment of any kind."

Plans also include providing medicines to stock the dispensaries that have been set up.

"We will be able to do all these things thanks to all the generous people in Puerto Rico who have contributed to this effort,"said Fray Elmig.

"The need in Haiti was great before the earthquake but now it is so much greater."

Constanza Arena, Puerto Rico.

Earthquake Padang - Reconstruction

2010-02-10T15:04:00.004+01:00

A strong earthquake struck the city of Padang and its surrounding areas on Wednesday September 30th, 2009 at 17:16 (WIB). The devastating quake caused many destructions to the area with casualties, death and injured, as well as material lost.
There are quite a number of heavily damaged buldings and countless of flattened and wrecked houses. At the diocese of Padang alone, 80% of the buildings were ruined. The Cathedral, churches, schools and other buildings belonging to the church were ruined and inhabitable. Some other buildings were lightly damaged and could be rehabilitated, however many others were completely ruined and beyond repair. They need to be rebuilt and reconstructed.
Find information about the rebuilding process here.
Find information from Caritas here.

Mein Namensvorschlag für die Lufthansa A380 - Vote for eagle jet

2010-02-09T16:14:00.001+01:00

Mein Namensvorschlag für die Lufthansa A380: "Das größte und modernste Passagierflugzeug der Welt sucht einen Namen. Hilf und stimme für meinen Vorschlag "eagle jet" – unter lufthansa.com/A380" Help and vote for "eagle jet"; Vota per "eagle jet".

40 ANNI SENZA NATALE

2010-02-04T18:55:00.006+01:00

I cappuccini a servizio della prima evangelizzazione a Cuba
Solo nel 1998, in occasione della visita di Giovanni Paolo II a Cuba, Fidel Castro introdusse di nuovo il Natale come giorno festivo. Un piccolo dettaglio, che fa capire chiaramente la situazione della Chiesa e i problemi dell’evangelizzazione. Per 40 anni la religione non ha costituito argomento in quest’isola dei Caraibi.
“Ogni bambino e ogni giovane che viene in chiesa è un dono di Dio”, dice fr. Philip Cutajar, cappuccino maltese, che lavora a Cuba dal 1999. Il 60% della popolazione veramente è battezzata, ma in chiesa vengono circa tre cubani su cento, e fra i giovani ancora meno.
I primi cappuccini vennero a Cuba nel 1681. Da più di cento anni i frati di Castiglia sono responsabili della presenza. Attualmente essa si limita a due case a L’Avana e una presenza a Santa Clara. Ultimamente il numero dei cappuccini è stato molto ridotto. Un aiuto è venuto dai cappuccini di Malta, ma di essi è rimasto soltanto fr. Philip. Frattanto c’è anche un cappuccino cubano della Provincia di Pennsylvania e quattro frati della Provincia del Maranhão in Brasile.
Cuba oggi è luogo di prima evangelizzazione. Molte persone, specialmente i giovani, non hanno alcuna idea del cristianesimo. In un gruppo di giovani a Santa Clara i quindici ragazzi e ragazze di età fra i 15 e i 24 anni si scambiano le loro esperienze. “L’insegnante non ha alcuna comprensione per la frequenza alla Messa alla domenica”. Quindi ogni 14 giorni, quando ci sono manifestazioni alla scuola, Isabel non può venire alla Messa. “Se a qualcuno dovesse essere fatto un monumento per i suoi meriti riguardo alla fede, certamente si dovrebbe fare alle nonne”, dice fr. Philip. Esse si sono impegnate per quel poco su cui noi oggi possiamo costruire. Tuttavia i cattolici attivi a Cuba hanno spirito missionario. E le chiese stanno riempiendosi sempre più. Siccome il governo non permette di avere nuove cappelle o spazi per riunioni nelle nuove zone edificate, la gente si riunisce in piccoli centri missionari nelle case private: prima per gruppi di preghiera, poi per la preparazione ai sacramenti e più tardi per l’Eucaristia. E poi ci sono sempre le visite ai malati e gli aiuti ai poveri. Con molta pazienza e anche con molte rinunce i missionari cappuccini lavorano a Cuba con la gente. E si rallegrano dei frutti. Dopo 40 anni alla fine a Cuba si festeggia di nuovo il Natale. (HR)

Martiri dalla Cina tornati in Austria

2010-01-17T18:04:00.007+01:00

Appena dopo 54 anni dalla loro violenta morte in Cina, le ossa dei due missionari cappuccini fr. Antonin Schröcksnadel e fr. Theophil Ruderstaller sono tornate in Tirolo (Austria), loro patria. I due cappuccini il lunedì di Pentecoste del 1946 durante l’Ufficio dei Vespri dai comunisti furono trascinati via dalla chiesa occupata di Fudjin e, portati nella loro casa, furono fucilati. Il Vescovo di Innsbruck, Dott. Manfred Scheuer insieme al Provinciale fr. Radek ha salutato i missionari di Cina ritornati in patria, esprimendo così il suo desiderio: “Aiutateci ad essere testimoni della fede”.

Nell’affollata chiesa dei cappuccini le due piccole bare con le ossa dei due testimoni della fede sono state collocate esattamente nel punto dove essi nel 1933 e 1940 furono inviati in Manciuria, la missione nella Cina del nordest dell’allora Provincia cappuccina del Tirolo del Nord. Nel 1933 la Provincia aveva assunto dai Benedettini missionari di s. Ottilio una parte dell’enorme territorio di missione nella regione al confine con la Russia. Tale missione più tardi divenne Missione e Prefettura del Kiamusze. In totale lavorarono in tale territorio 13 missionari del Tirolo del Nord. Lo scoppio della secondo guerra mondiale e la situazione politica non permisero l’invio di altri frati. I missionari stessi, oltre che nell’annuncio della fede, furono attivi specialmente nell’ambito della scuola e dell’assistenza medica. Le condizioni politiche non furono mai realmente favorevoli ed essi effettivamente lavorarono soltanto per breve tempo in una Manciuria politicamente indipendente. Il territorio cadde presto prima sotto l’occupazione giapponese e poi sotto quella russa. Ma la fine dell’impegno missionario degli austriaci fu segnata dalla rivoluzione cinese e dalle truppe di Mao.

A Fudjin, provincia di Heilonjiang, il 10 giugno 1946 un gruppo di comunisti armati irruppe nella chiesa, proprio mentre la comunità con i cappuccini stava pregando i Vespri. I tre cappuccini furono violentemente trascinati nella loro casa e lì fucilati. Uno morì subito, l’altro fu gravemente ferito e morì poco dopo. Tuttavia poté dare l’assoluzione al fratello laico Günther Krablicher. Fr. Günther sopravvisse gravemente ferito all’attentato mortale.

Alcuni anni fa ci furono diversi segni di vita provenienti dalla Cina, che indicavano come durante i lavori di costruzione di un canale si erano scoperte le tombe e come i cappuccini se le potevano assicurare, pur pagandole. Ma tale possibilità non si realizzò. Quindi l’archivista della Provincia cappuccina di Austria, fr. Gaudentius Walser, chiese ai coniugi Gisela e Dott. Gunther Gensch di fare ricerche durante uno dei loro soggiorni in Cina riguardo alla Missione dei cappuccini e alle tombe. Mentre nel 2007 e 2008 essi trovarono la chiesa in stato di abbandono e localizzarono le tombe, nella loro visita del 2009 incontrarono una nuova situazione. La città di Fudjin aveva trasformato la chiesa e la stazione della missione in museo cittadino e nel farlo aveva chiaramente conservato il carattere religioso dell’edificio. Durante la loro visita al museo cittadino i coniugi Gensch si trovarono improvvisamente di fronte ad un gruppo di cattolici, che erano inginocchiati sul pavimento della loro chiesa di un tempo davanti all’immagine del presbiterio e recitavano il rosario. Nella città c’è ancora una comunità di circa 150 cattolici, il seme della missione nonostante le avverse circostanze è germogliato. Con l’aiuto del direttore del genio civile Wei Guo Liang e la partecipazione dei cattolici più tardi furono localizzate ed esumate le ossa dei due martiri. Nella festa del beato Bernardo e dei suoi compagni, primi martiri dell’Ordine francescano, i coniugi Gensch poterono consegnare le ossa ai cappuccini di Innsbruck. L’inumazione nella chiesa dei cappuccini avverrà nell’anniversario della loro morte.

Nel 1953 gli ultimi missionari cappuccini stranieri dovettero abbandonare i due territori di missione in Manciuria e nel Gansu. Tuttavia l’Ordine è rimasto presente con alcuni pochi confratelli indigeni. Possa la testimonianza di fede dei due martiri rafforzare questa presenza! Il direttore del genio civile di Fudjin, d’altra parte, ha promesso di costruire una nuova chiesa per la piccola comunità cattolica della città. È il prossimo progetto di Gisela Gensch. La missione dei cappuccini continua.

Earthquake in Haiti

2010-01-13T08:35:00.006+01:00

A 7.0-magnitude quake which hit south of the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince is feared to have killed hundred thousand people. Our sympathy and our prayers are with them and their families.

We have 5 friars in Haiti. They live ca. 230 km south-east from Port-au-Prince. We got the information that this region was not affected by the earthquake. The Vice provincial of Santo Domingo and Haiti, Br. Demetrio de la Cruz, has been at a meeting in Port-au-Prince. But it seems that he is save.

In the earthquake died also Zilda Arns Neumman, Sister of Cardenal Evaristo Arns. In 1983 she established in Brazil the Pastoral Care for Children. It was then that she developed the community-oriented methodology of multiplying knowledge and solidarity among poorer families. The Pastoral Care for Children provides assistance to over 1.9 million pregnant women and children under 6 years of age, and 1.4 million impoverished families in 4,063 municipalities in Brazil. There are over 260,000 volunteer workers. The organization’s working method was replicated in several countries.

Zilda Arns was in Haiti to teach the Pastoral Care for Children’s working methods for fighting malnutrition. She attended a missionary meeting at an organization named CIFOR and was staying at the Episcopal headquarters. We are not yet sure if this is the same meeting ourVice provincial has been. "Apparently, Zilda Arns was on the streets of Port-au-Prince at the time of the quake and was hit by something,” are saying sources of the Brazilian government. She lived in the parish of the Capuchins of Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Größere Kartenansicht

Information from FIDES: AMERICA/HAITI - Dramatic testimony of Apostolic Nuncio to Fides: “Port-au-Prince is completely devastated. Everywhere, you can hear cries from under the rubble.”
Port-au-Prince (Agenzia Fides) - “Port-au-Prince is completely devastated. The Cathedral, the Archbishop's Residence, all the great churches, all the seminaries are reduced to rubble. The pastor of the Cathedral, who survived the earthquake, told me that the Archbishop of Port-au-Prince perished under the rubble, along with hundreds of seminarians and priests who are under the rubble." This is the dramatic testimony of the Apostolic Nuncio of Haiti, Archbishop Bernardito Auza, contacted by Fides after the violent earthquake that shook the country yesterday afternoon.
The Archbishop continued: "The National Palace is still standing. This morning I went to express condolences and solidarity to the President of the Republic, who was saved because he was out with the family. His private home has been destroyed. All the Ministerial buildings, except that of Culture have been destroyed.
Parliament, with its senators; schools with children; supermarkets have all been reduced to nothing. The headquarters of MINUSTAH (the UN headquarters for Aid in Haiti) is reduced to a heap of concrete and hundreds of people are trapped, including the Head of Delegation, Hedi Annabi, I have been told by people that live in front of the headquarters.”
The Nuncio has toured the devastated city as best he could and tells Fides: "I have just returned this morning. I found priests and nuns in the streets, without homes. The Rector of the seminary survived, as did the Dean of Studies, but the seminarians are under the rubble. Everywhere, you can hear cries from under the rubble. The CIFOR - Institute of Studies for the Men and Women Religious - has collapsed with the students inside, participating in a conference. The nunciature building has withstood the earthquake, without any injuries, but we are all amazed! So many things are broken, including the Tabernacle, but we are more fortunate than others. Many family members of the staff were killed, their homes destroyed. Everyone is calling for help. We will have problems of water and food before long. We cannot enter or stay inside the house much, as the earth continues to shake, so we are camped in the garden." (CE) (Agenzia Fides 13/01/2010)

2010-01-08T08:58:00.006+01:00

Circular Letter on Mission Activity

Carta circular sobre la Misión

Lettera Circolare sulla Missione

Lettre circulaire sur la mission

Rundschreiben über die Mission

List Okólny na temat Misji

Carta Circular sobre a Missão

Christmas - The Mission continues

2009-12-24T10:33:00.004+01:00

To celebrate Christmas means to contemplate the Son being sent into the world, which is continued in the mission of the Church: «As the Father has sent me, so do I send you» (cfr Jn 20,21). This is the reason why the Church exists, and why our Order exists.
May this Christmas mark the beginning of a new season in our commitment to proclaiming the mystery of the God who is communion and calls the whole of creation into brotherhood.

With these thoughts I send my best wishes to you all.

Fra Helmut Rakowski
General Mission Secretary

Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo
Vrolijk Kerstfeest en een Gelukkig Nieuwjaar
Sretan Bozic i Nova godina
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Zalig Kerstfeest en Gelukkig nieuw jaar
Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année
Wesolych Swiat i Szczesliwego Nowego Roku
Feliz Navidad y Prospero año nuevo
God Jul Och Ett Gott Nytt Ar
Fröhliche Weihnachten und ein glückliches Neues Jahr

“Operation White Christmas” - 'immigrant clean-up' initiative in Northern Italy

2009-11-18T15:51:00.003+01:00

Brescia, 18 Nov. (AKI) - The mayor of the small town of Coccaglio, located in the northern Italian region of Lombardy has launched a campaign to "clean-up" the city of immigrants, ahead of the Christian holidays next month, Italian media said on Wednesday. The town council has dubbed the operation "White Christmas".
There is no crime here. We only want to start cleaning up," said the mayor of Coccaglio, Franco Claretti.
The "White Christmas" campaign is being spearheaded by Claretti and six town councillors from Italy's ruling conservative People of Freedom party and its junior coalition partner, the anti-immigrant Northern League party.
Read more in Italian on www.repubblica.it

Entwicklungshilfe hat versagt - Erfolgreich nur die Kirchen

2009-11-18T11:28:00.002+01:00

Rupert Neudeck (Cap Anamur) aus Anlass des Welternährungsgipfels in Rom: "Die
staatliche Entwicklungshilfe war bisher nicht erfolgreich, weil sie indirekt korrupte Systeme und Regierungen unterstützte. Erfolgreich dagegen waren ganz eindeutig die Kirchen." Dem neuen Entwicklungshilfeminster Nebel sagt er: "Wir müssen wegkommen von der Vorstellung, dass es nur um Geld geht. Es geht genauso darum, andere Lebenskulturen mit großem Respekt und Anerkennung wahrzunehmen." Das ganze Interview hier auf tagesschau.de

Bruxelles/ Brussels / Bruselas 2010

2009-10-31T17:06:00.002+01:00

1. Français
2. English
3. Italiano

Le prochain cours formation pour les missionnaires sera donné en français, du 1 mars au 26 mai 2010.

Ce cours est destiné à tous les frères qui ont commencé à travailler en «mission. «Cela vaut aussi pour ceux qui vont du sud au nord de l’Inde ou en Europe». Ce cours n’est pas fait pour ceux qui partent seulement pour un court séjour, mais pour ceux qui partent pour quelques années. Sont invités aussi les missionnaires Les conditions: connaître le français, expérience missionnaire .

J’invite les Supérieurs Majeurs à me communiquer les noms des frères qui sont intéressés à participer à ce type de programme de formation.

Cher Ministre, merci de votre collaboration. Je souhaite que cet effort du bureau de l’animation missionnaire nous aide à grandir dans l’esprit franciscain de la Mission.

Merci de m’informer dès que possible des noms des participants intéressés, en indiquant leur nom, quelques informations personnelles, leur niveau de maitrise du français, les renseignements personnels du passeport, le pays de leur «mission». Date d’échéance: 15 novembre 2009.

The next course of our formation program for missionaries will be done in French from 2nd March to 24th May 2009.

It is meant for all those brothers who are preparing to leave their own culture and to go to a “Mission” (it is applicable also to those going from South India to North India, or those going to Europe). It is not designed for those who go only for a short experience. They should go for some years. The past has shown, that participation was more fruitful for those who had already made an experience in a specific mission area. So we specially invite Missionaries who recently started working in the “Mission”.
The condition is knowledge of the French language and some missionary experience.

I would like to ask the Major Superiors to let me know me the names of brothers who are interested in participating in this kind of a formation programme.

Dear brother Minister,
Thank you for your collaboration. I hope that this effort of the Office of Mission Animation will help us to grow in the Franciscan spirit of Mission.

Please inform me as soon as possible about interested participants, indicating Name, some personal data, knowledge of the French language, the place of their “mission”.
The course will be held only if there are sufficient participants enrolled until November 15th. Please express your interest during the next 2 weeks.

Il prossimo corso per la formazione dei nuovi missionari in francese avrà luogo dal 1 marzo al 26 maggio 2010.

Il corso è destinato a tutti quei frati che si preparano a lasciare la propria cultura e ad andare in una “Missione” (termine che è applicabile anche a coloro che vanno dall’India del Sud nell’India del Nord o a coloro che vanno in Europa). Non è invece per coloro che vanno soltanto per una breve esperienza. Si tratta quindi di coloro che andranno per diversi anni. I missionari con una certa esperienza nel paese della loro missione hanno potuto profittare meglio del corso. Invitiamo per questo specialmente i missionari che hanno cominciato di recente a lavorare in “Missione”. Condizione è che conoscano il francese e una esperienza nel lavoro.

Vorrei chiedere ai Superiori maggiori che mi comunichino i nomi di frati che sono interessati a partecipare a questa forma di programma di formazione.

Caro fratello Ministro,
grazie per la tua collaborazione. Spero che questo sforzo dell’Ufficio dell’Animazione missionaria ci aiuti a crescere nello spirito francescano della Missione.

Per favore, informami prima possibile riguardo ai partecipanti, indicandone il nome, alcuni dati personali, la conoscenza della lingua francese, il luogo della loro “missione”.
Ultimo termine è il 15 novembre prossimo per comunicare il vostro interesse. Perché abbiamo bisogno di un numero minimo di partecipanti per poter organizzare il corso.

Church buildings destroyed at Padang

2009-10-06T22:00:00.010+02:00

Click for news about Padang earthquake in German/ Information zum Erdbeben auf Deutsch

Msgr. Martinus Situmorang OFMCap, bishop of Padang and president of the Indonesian Bishops conference, communicated to the Mission Office of the Dutch Capuchins, some pictures of the material damage for the Church in the region hit by the earthquake. Beside the many victims among the population and the destruction we have seen on television and newspaper, he commented about the damage at the cathedral and the bishops house. Also a convent was destroyed and also some catholic schools.

Pictures:
Cathedral
Convent Sisters van Liefde
Bishops house

Indonesia earthquake: Padang region hit

2009-10-01T08:42:00.005+02:00

• 7.6-magnitude quake, followed by 7.0 tremor
• 464 dead, thousands trapped under rubble
• Hospitals, hotels, shopping malls cave in
• Capuchin Martinus Situmorang is bishop of Padang

The official death toll from the Indonesian earthquake on September 30th has risen to 464, the social affairs ministry says.

The latest update follows the Indonesian Health Ministry's prediction that thousands of people were likely killed in the 7.6-magnitude earthquake that struck Indonesia's Sumatra on Wednesday.

A second earthquake was recorded shortly before noon (AEST) on October 1st. It had a magnitude of 7.0 and struck 150km south of the epicenter of last night's quake.

Five hundred buildings in Padang, located on the western coast of Sumatra, collapsed or were badly damaged, Disaster Management Agency spokesman Priyadi Kardono said.

Earlier today, Disaster Management Agency spokesman Priyadi Kardono said: "The effects of the earthquake could be as big as the Yogyakarta quake." He was referring to a 2006 quake that killed nearly 6000. The tragedy comes just a day after an earthquake and tsunami hit Samoa and American Samoa, killing 148 people
The bishop of Padang is Mgr. Martinus Situmorang OFMCap. He attended the annual meeting of bishops of Sumatra at Pematangsiantar together with the three Capuchin provincial when the earthquake hit his diocese. He went back to Padang. The Capuchin provincial of Medan wrote, that in the moment they have no additional information.
The Capuchins in Medan and Sumatra have been involved in first aid and reconstruction work after the Tsunami of 2004 and the earthquake at Nias Island in 2005.

New presence in Ghana

2009-08-20T08:50:00.005+02:00

The friars from St. Francis Province in Kerala, India, started the second Capuchin presence in Ghana in Kpassa, Jasikan Diocese, Volta, Ghana. Up to now it is one of the outstations of an existing parish. Soon it should become an independent parish. The friars are living in a small, rented house. Their car is not in good conditions for the bad roads. Malaria and other diseases make life difficult there for the missionaries. But they are doing their best to serve our brothers and sisters in this place. Br. Godfrey sent us the pictures.

A mission for the world

2009-08-13T16:37:00.002+02:00

If you click on the picture you will come to the Picasa Web Album with some comments.

Tunisia, Tunesia, Tunesien - part of the Capuchin history

2009-08-11T15:59:00.003+02:00

Per più foto e informazioni fai click sulla foto.
For more pictures and some information make click on the foto.
Für weiter Bilder und INformationen clicke auf das Foto.

100 years of promoting faith and life - Capuchins in Brazilian Amazon

2009-07-30T16:39:00.004+02:00

Per informazioni in Italiano vai qui.

Manaus (Agenzia Fides) – During these days, in Manaus, the capital of the Brazilian Amazon, is hosting the celebration of the centennial anniversary of the arrival Capuchin Friars Minor who came over from Umbria (Italy). The first four brothers arrived on July 26, 1909.

The religious came from Assisi and were sent to Solmoes, the most western part of the Amazon filled with waterways and jungle, located between Colombia and Peru. There, they worked offering assistance to the “seringueiros” (rubber plantation workers) and Ticuna Tribe, the most numerous in all Brazil. The territory covered an area of 140,000 km sq. and had a little over 20,000 inhabitants.

The impact with the climate was mortal, so much so that one of them died of yellow fever just a year after his arrival, at age 27. Two, not long afterwards, were swept away by the muddy river waters and the rest were frequently hospitalized in Manaus for treatment of infections and various tropical disaeases. During a visit to Pope Pius XI, Fr. Evangelista de Cefalonia, the first Apostolic Prefect of the mission, affirmed that the climate “two missionaries immobile per year.”
Now, in Solimoes, there are 142,000 inhabitants in an area of 133,000 km sq. (a little over one inhabitant per square kilometer), and 99 religious who have joined in the evangelization effort and in social promotion with the opening of schools, a hospital, and an infinite number of multi-purpose centers, in addition to the formation of local vocations who are now a part of the Vice Province of Solimoes, formed by 40 religious, in 8 houses: two in Manaus, one in Humaita, and the rest along the river that the indigenous people call “Rio Mar.”
The religious celebrated the anniversary with many liturgical events in the various residencies, as well as with a retreat and a reflection on the mission in one of the houses of Manaus and in the monastery of the Poor Clares, which was opened three years ago in honor of the centennial anniversary.
The work that has been carried out by the religious, amidst difficulties and adversities, will be recalled in a book that will soon be published and in a documentary produced by “Nova-T” of Turin (Italy), which is linked to the Capuchin Order. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 29/7/2009)

Capuchins fight leprosy

2009-07-29T16:51:00.003+02:00

AFRICA/MADAGASCAR - “Illiteracy is the entrance into a vicious circle: ignorance, lack of hygiene, underdevelopment, poverty, leprosy. Breaking the chain of ignorance, disease can be overcome as well.” The work of the Capuchins in Madagascar

Ambanja (Agenzia Fides) – In 2002, Madagascar received the WHO's “award for the victory over leprosy,” a disease that has afflicted the island for many years and that today is under control thanks to the work of Catholic

missionaries. In particular, the Saint Damian Center in Ambanja, founded by the Capuchin Friars in the 1960s, has offered advanced care for over 6,000 patients, measures using the Hansen bacillus. Today, the number of people with the disease has lowered to less than 1 per 10,000 inhabitants, however other illness with an epidemic tendency are making a come back. This is why for nearly 15 years, the sanatorium in Ambanja now hosts 21 leprosy patients and 205 with tuberculosis.
To avoid a return of the social segregation that took place in the old days, the sick are hospitalized for two months and later closely observed for another 6 months, which is usually the duration of the treatment process. The procedure they have adopted has convinced the public health system and the entire service is indicated as a model, as well, for the efficient system of self-sufficiency in food products, which includes the cultivation of several acres of terrain. Given the substantial results seen today in the center, a third area has been launched: schooling for children.
“It may seem a paradox that we put patients of leprosy and tuberculosis, along with children all together,” writes Fr. Marino Brizi, OFMCap, Director of the former “Léproserie St. Damien,” in “Continenti.” “But it is better that way and it helps the children to not only learn to read and write, but also to prevent the illness we treat. Illiteracy is the entrance into a vicious circle: ignorance, lack of hygiene, underdevelopment, poverty, leprosy. Breaking the chain of ignorance, disease can be overcome as well.” There are currently about 120 students living there, in addition to another 80 who are treated in the city through long-distance adoption programs. The “Léproserie” continues its work in the medical-surgical center founded by Fr. Stefano Scaringella, OFM Cap. Every year, 6-7,000 people are offered care and there are nearly 2,500 general operations, 300 eye operations, and 200 cesarean births. (AM) (Agenzia Fides 28/7/2009)

Paul Hinder Consultor of "Propaganda fide"

2009-07-07T09:44:00.004+02:00

VATICAN - Appointment of new Consultors and Members of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - The Holy Father Benedict XVI, on 4 July 2009, appointed as Consultors of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples: Archbishop Henryk Hoser, S. A. C. Archbishop of Warsaw-Prague (Poland), former secretary adjunct of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples and President of the Pontifical Mission Societies ; Bishop Paul Hinder, Titular Bishop of Macon, Vicar Apostolic of Arabia (United Arab Emirates); Rev. Fr Cataldo Zuccaro, Rector of the Pontifical Urban University, Rome; Fr. Heinz Wilhelm Steckling, O.M.I., Superior General of the Oblate Missionaries of Mary Immaculate.
The Holy Father Benedict XVI, on 9 May 2009, appointed as members of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples His Eminence Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, Archbishop of Cape Coast (Ghana); His Eminence Cardinal Cláudio Hummes, prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy; His Eminence Cardinal Jean-Claude Turcotte, Archbishop of Montreal (Canada); Archbishop Erwin Josef Ender, titular Archbishop of Germania di Numidia, Apostolic Nuncio; Archbishop Félix del Blanco Prieto, titular Archbishop of Vannida, Apostolic Nuncio; Archbishop Nikola Eterović, titular Archbishop of Sisak, secretary general of the Synod of Bishops; Bishop Oscar Zoungrana, national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (Burkina Faso); Fr. Adolfo Nicolás Pachón, S. J., Prepositor General Society of Jesus. (Agenzia Fides 6/7/2009)

VATICAN - In the footsteps of Matteo Ricci, “a Jesuit in the Kingdom of the Dragon”

2009-06-21T09:58:00.004+02:00

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The reflections of Archbishop Celli, quotes from the Pope's message by Bishop Giuliodori, the dreams of Fr. Lombardi, the work of the Chinese Ambassador in the footsteps of Matteo Ricci were all featured in the presentation of “Matteo Ricci: A Jesuit in the Kingdom of the Dragon,” a documentary on the life of the great Jesuit missionary, by Gjon Kolndrekaj. The presentation took place on the evening of June 18, in the presence of Cardinal Ivan Dias, Prefect for the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples; Archbishop Claudio Maria Celli, President of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications; Archbishop Robert Sarah, Secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples; Bishop Claudio Giuliodori of Macerata-Tolentino-Recanati-Cingoli-Treia; Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, Director of the Holy See Press Office; Mr. Sun Yu Xi, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China in Italy; Mr. Zhang Jian Da, Cultural Councilor for the Embassy, who played an important role in collaborating with the making of the film. There were also several Jesuits present from the world of communications and others from the world of culture, for the showing of this work sponsored by the General Curia of the Company of Jesus and the Diocese of Macerata-Tolentino-Recanati-Cingoli-Treia and promoted by the Pontifical Council for Social Communications in collaboration with the cultural and academic world of the People's Republic of China.

During his opening speech, Archbishop Celli recalled his first trip to China, visiting the tomb of the great Fr. Li Ma Dou (Fr. Matteo Ricci's Chinese name) and other Jesuits who gave their lives in that faraway land of the East, for the Lord's mission, underlining the present significance of this “great bridge.” Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, said that as a Jesuit speaking on behalf of all his brothers of the community, he would share two of his great dreams: see the Beatification of Fr. Matteo Ricci and the first Chinese Prime Minister to convert to Catholicism, Paul Xu, and that the Jesuits today would continue the path begun by Fr. Matteo... “This is a certainty,” he said. Bishop Guiliodori, promotor of the great celebration for the 400th anniversary of Fr. Matteo's death, highlighted the importance of science in the cultural change, quoting the Holy Father's message from May 6, 2009: “I am therefore greatly pleased to join all those who recall this generous son of your land, obedient minister of the Church, and intrepid and intelligent messenger of the Gospel of Christ. Considering his intense scientific and spiritual work, we are positively amazed by the innovative and unique capacity he had in bringing together Chinese cultural and spiritual traditions in conjunction. That was in fact the characteristic aspect of his mission to find possible harmony between the ancient and noble Chinese civilization and the newness of Christianity, which leads to freedom and true renewal within every society, as the Gospel is the universal message of salvation to the whole world, regardless of their cultural or religious context.”
In his brief and intense talk, Mr. Sun Yu Xi, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China in Italy, highlighted the popularity of Fr. Matteo Ricci, from his own experience: “the first time I heard his name, I was studying as a child.” He also confirmed that “China is working towards the normalization of diplomatic relations between China and the Vatican.” Thus, the figure of Fr. Matteo Ricci is truly more important today than ever. In addition, at the Shanghai Expo 2010, there will be various projects dedicated to the great Jesuit missionary, Fr. Matteo Ricci. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 19/06/2009)

50 Jahre Präsenz der Schweizer Kapuziner auf Borneo und Sumatra/Indonesien

2009-06-12T10:07:00.003+02:00

Am 1. November 1959 haben die ersten Schweizer Kapuziner den Boden von Borneo betreten. In kurzen Abständen folgten weitere Brüder. Ihre Zahl stieg bis auf 14 in Borneo; weitere 6 Brüder hatten ihren Einsatzort in Sumatra. Br. Jakob Willi ist der letzte, der sich 1977 nach Indonesien aufgemacht hatte. Die Geschichte der Schweizer Brüder in Indonesien soll hier nicht weiter entfaltet werden. Br. Franz Xaver Brantschen hat einen Rückblick auf das Wirken unserer Missionare in Indonesien verfasst. In Kürze wird dieser Rückblick den Brüdern zugeschickt werden. An dieser Stelle möchte ich allen Missionaren für ihren Einsatz im Fernen Osten von Herzen danken; die Früchte ihrer Arbeit sind beachtlich.

Text: Mitteilungen der Schweizer Provinz, Nr. 16 – 11. Juni 2009, S. 57

On the roof of Rome - an evening hosted by Francis Campbell, British Ambassador to the Holy See

2009-06-06T19:55:00.005+02:00

At the end of a two years course with the Craighead Institute about "International Leadership" we received the certificates from the British Ambassador at the Holy See. I have "stolen" this Articel from Jane Stranz. On her blog you can find more about this evening.

The Craighead Institute was honoured to have its certificate giving ceremony at the residence of the British Ambassador in Rome this evening. We walked up almost 10 sets of staircases to reach a roof terrace with of course stunning views - this is Rome in June. Ambassador Francis Campbell was very welcoming and gave a good speech about how without religious organisations delivering services to real people at the grassroots, it would almost impossible to achieve the millenium development goals. He also particularly welcomed our group as there were far more women than at the usual receptions hosted at the residence!
Later after we had moved downstairs, the ambassador gave us fascinating insight into the complexity of the issues followed by the British embassay to the Holy See - using diplomacy to push the millenium development goals; the multilateral approach that the posting requires and the growing understanding of the importance of religion in diplomacy and international affairs. A heartening and interesting evening. [more]

Brussels / Bruxelles / Bruselas 2009 Inscriptions open

2009-04-27T14:27:00.001+02:00

The next course of our formation program for missionaries will be done in English from 31st August to 22nd November 2009.
==> click for more details
___________________________________________

Le prochain cours formation pour les nouveaux missionnaires sera donné en anglais, du 31 août au 22 novembre 2009.
==> click for more details
______________________________________________________

Il prossimo corso per la formazione dei nuovi missionari in inglese avrà luogo dal 31 agosto al 22 novembre 2009.
==> click for more details

Capuchin Bishop Ambongo attends Human Rights Council

2009-04-20T14:39:00.000+02:00

Geneva, 19 March 2009
Franciscans International (FI) is actively engaged in the 10th session of the Human Rights Council. This session runs from 2-27 March 2009 in Geneva, Switzerland.
FI was able to bring Monsignor Fridolin Ambongo Besungu OFM Cap, Bishop of Bokungu Ikela Diocese in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to our Geneva office. Whilst here, Msgr Ambongo Besungu delivered a joint statement on behalf of Franciscans International on the troubling situation in Eastern DRC. The Msgr spoke passionately about the humanitarian crisis in his country articulating it as “a cry of the Congolese People”.
read all on FI's website

La missione dei frati minori cappuccini Il vangelo nell'Africa subsahariana

2009-04-14T17:01:00.003+02:00

di Egidio Picucci OFMCap
L'Osservatore Romano - 8 marzo 2009

Tra il 1645 e il 1666/68, arrivarono in missione 434 cappuccini e ne morirono circa 228. Più della metà, tanto da giustificare un'espressione entrata nella storia delle missioni: Congo, cimitero dei cappuccini.
[leggi più]
[imagini]

New brochure about the Brussels course

2009-03-17T16:16:00.006+01:00

The Mission secretary of the Conventuals published a new brochure about the Brussels course.
Have a look on the pdf-document.
In English

The next English course will take place in autumn 2009 (August 31st – November 22nd). Major Superiors can now pre-register any brothers who are interested in participating in this kind of formation programme, by letting me know their names and CV.

Hoch die Solidarität

2009-02-13T16:32:00.005+01:00

"Wie Deutschland durch die Weltwirtschaftskrise kommen kann: Wir alle müssen teilen – die Arbeit und den Lohn. Denn die Regierung allein kann die steigende Arbeitslosigkeit nicht verhindern."

Bernd Ulrich schreibt in seinem Artikel in DIE ZEIT (12.02.2009 Nr. 08) über die Solidarität als ein Weg aus der Krise. Was wir Kapuziner seid mehreren Jahren fördern, wird nun auch von anderen erkannt: Solidarität fürdert eine Gesellschaft die alle teilhaben läßt an den vorhandenen Resourcen.

Zum Artikel

2009-02-07T21:24:00.004+01:00

International World Water Day is held annually on 22 March as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
Each year, World Water Day highlights a specific aspect of freshwater. This year on World Water Day, we call attention to the waters that cross borders and link us together.
The world’s 263 transboundary lake and river basins include the territory of 145 countries and cover nearly half of the Earth’s land surface. Great reservoirs of freshwater also move silently below our borders in underground aquifers.
With every country seeking to satisfy its water needs from limited water resources, some foresee a future filled with conflict. But history shows that cooperation, not conflict, is the most common response to transboundary water management issues.Over the last 60 years there have been more than 300 international water agreements and only 37 cases of reported violence between states over water. We need to continue to nurture the opportunities for cooperation that transboundary water management can provide.
Whether we live upstream or downstream, we are all in the same boat.

Essere missionari “ad gentes” vivendo come fratelli “inter gentes”

2009-01-31T21:53:00.000+01:00

Fra Damiano Angelucci OFMCap è cappuccino delle Marche. Da poco tempo si trova in missione in Benin. Il giovane cappuccino propone idee di fondo per tentare un nuovo modo di essere missionari francescani cappuccini “ad gentes”. Invitiamo alla discussione.

Come ha detto il Generale nell’ultima lettera sulla formazione, noi cappuccini dovremmo essere sempre in continuo atteggiamento di rinnovamento. Questo per nostra natura, e non per svilire ciò che già si è fatto finora.

Sentendo e vedendo l’esperienza di tanti con-fratelli missionari, sembra che un certo modo tradizionale di essere missionari “ad gentes” che valorizza le attività pastorali e le opere sociali, porti a sacrificare molto la dimensione comunitaria. Penso che dovremmo essere missionari “ad gentes” vivendo come fratelli “inter gentes”. La prima evangelizzazione dovremmo farla per “attrazione” al Bello che è in mezzo a noi.

Quindi ritengo che il nostro primo mezzo di evangelizzazione sia proprio l’essere una fraternità contemplativa, luminosa, centrata fortemente sulla presenza del Cristo in mezzo a noi.

Ciò premesso, metterei tre elementi alla base di una possibile nuova esperienza missionaria:

1 preghiera comunitaria,

2 lavoro manuale,

3 evangelizzazione (lavoro pastorale).

La preghiera comunitaria deve essere la spina dorsale imprescindibile della fraternità.
Quindi porrei la preghiera liturgica, la condivisione della Parola e l’adorazione eucaristica come fondamento della vita di preghiera, dandogli tempo e la priorità nell’organizzazione della settimana.

Il lavoro manuale deve essere segno per noi e anche per chi ci vive intorno. Il lavoro non può essere solo quello intellettuale e/o pastorale, perché altrimenti alimentiamo il pregiudizio che farsi frate vuol dire risolvere i problemi materiali della vita. Almeno in minima parte dobbiamo vivere di quello che produciamo. Anche il Generale ha richiamato nell’ultima lettera la necessità che i lavori in un convento non siano sempre delegati ai laici.

L’attività di evangelizzazione dovrebbe essere svolta senza pregiudicare la vita della comunità.
Ecco perché immagino una comunità di 4 o 5 frati dalla quale due frati (non sempre gli stessi) ogni tanto si sganciano per andare ad annunciare. Meglio ancora se tutta la comunità si sposta, di tanto in tanto, per fare servizio dove saranno chiamati o accolti. Oppure l’annuncio potrebbe anche essere svolto dando una mano alla parrocchia in cui territorialmente si è presenti. Mi sembra che , per quanto detto finora, assumersi la responsabilità diretta di una parrocchia ci ostacolerebbe il fine prefissato.

Al riguardo sarebbero da evitare mezzi pastorali e di comunicazione esagerati rispetto all’ambiente in cui si vive. Potrebbe bastare un auto veicolo per tutti (o comunque farlo bastare!), un telefono per tutti, un computer per tutti, un’unica cassa (!) per tutti.
Per iniziare non deve essere necessario costruire un nuovo convento. Penso basterebbe utilizzare una struttura già esistente, se c’è. Certo garantendo un minimo di igiene e protezione dalle zanzare.

Recanati (MC), 11 gennaio 2009
Fra Damiano Angelucci

Help to fight contemporary slavery

2009-01-30T18:34:00.002+01:00

The United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery allocates project grants (for a maximum of 15 000 USD), for programmes of humanitarian, legal and financial assistance to individuals whose human rights have been severely violated as a result of contemporary forms of slavery.
Contemporary forms of slavery include trafficking, sexual slavery, child labour and child servitude, debt bondage, serfdom and forced labour, forced marriage and sale of wives ect.

Projects undertaken with previous Trust Fund grants include medical and psychological aid, food, shelter, and vocational training to victims of trafficking for sexual and economic exploitation; support to rehabilitation centres for sexually and physically abused street children and a project to identify and release bonded labourers in the carpet industry and stone quarries. Other projects have provided victims with the means to generate sustainable sources of income, such as sewing machines, hairdressing equipment, or farming tools.

Please find below the application form in english, french and spanish. Application forms should be duly completed and submitted by 31 Mars 2009.

If you need more information on the Fund, you can consult the website of the OHCHR: http://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/Pages/ListOfIssues.aspx. You can also contact us by answering to this email.

You are more than welcome to disseminate this message to oganisations working with victims of comtemporary forms of slavery.

Our former China mission

2009-01-16T15:08:00.003+01:00

The provincial archivist of our province of Mid-America posted a blog entry about our former China mission. [Find more]

Mission secretariate reorganized // Segretariato missione riorganizato

2009-01-13T11:06:00.005+01:00

1. Information in English
2. Informazione in Italiano

We reorganized the General Secretariat for missionary animation. Br. Piotr Komorniczak of the Vice-Province of Ukraine will in future work as Promoter of Solidarity. This office will continue to be based in the Mission secretariat. Br. Helmut Rakowski will lead the Secretariat as General Secretary for Missionary Animation, devoting himself in particular to missionary animation.
For your information and practical use, here are the (new) OFFICIAL contact details of the Mission secretariat:

Br. Helmut Rakowski OFMCap
General Secretary for missionary Animation
Tel: + 39 06 462012.13
Fax: + 39 06 4828267

Br. Piotr Komorniczak OFMCap
Promoter of Solidarity
Tel: + 39 06 462012.31
Fax: + 39 06 4828267

The old e-mail address prom.solidarity (ad) ofmcap.org will no longer be in use as from 31. January 2009. Attention: We have already problems with this mail ID. Please change immediately.

Abbiamo riorganizato il Segretariato per l’animazione missionaria. Fr. Piotr Komorniczak, della Viceprovincia dell’Ucraina, in futuro svolgerà il compito di Promotore della solidarietà. Tale impegno continuerà ad essere svolto nell’ambito del Segretariato della missione. Fr. Helmut Rakowski guiderà il Segretariato come Segretario generale per l’animazione missionaria e si dedicherà in modo particolare all’animazione missionaria.
Vi comunico i (nuovi) dati di contatto con il Segretariato generale per l’animazione missionaria:

Fr. Helmut Rakowski OFMCap
Segretario generale per l’animazione missionaria
Tel: + 39 06 462012.13
Fax: + 39 06 4828267

Fr. Piotr Komorniczak OFMCap
Promotore della solidarietà
Tel: + 39 06 462012.31
Fax: + 39 06 4828267

Il vecchio indirizzo e-mail prom.solidarity(ad)ofmcap.org dal 31 gennaio 2009 non è più in uso. Attenzione: Abbiamo già dei problemi con questo indirizzo. Cambiate subito per favore.

French Course Spring 2009 - cancelled // Course en française annulé

2009-01-05T19:23:00.000+01:00

Le cours de formation en langue française pour les nouveaux missionnaires, prévu du 2 mars au 24 mai 2009, a été annulé en raison du nombre réduit d’inscriptions. [plus]

The next course of our formation program for new missionaries (in French) from 2nd March to 24th May 2009 has been cancelled. [more]

Il prossimo corso per la formazione di nuovi missionari (in lingua francese) dal 2 marzo al 24 maggio 2009 è stato annullato. [più]

Security forces in Orissa can't stop arson, fear

2009-01-05T08:48:00.003+01:00

by Nirmala Carvalho from Asia News (12/29/2008 16:21)

Two shops and a Christian center have been burned. More than 10,000 refugees gathered in the camps have celebrated Christmas under the protection of the army. In the villages, the Masses were moved up to the afternoon in order to avoid returning home in the dark.

Bhubaneswar (AsiaNews) - Christmas celebrations in the district of Kandhamal have passed without violence, but the arson continues, Christians are still afraid, and the refugees are not leaving the camps out of fear of new violence.
On December 23, while Christmas preparations were underway in the parishes and refugee camps, two small shops in the town of Sugadabadi were set on fire. On the 26th, the same fate befell a Christian center in the village of Bakingia.
The Christians of Kandhamal, while acknowledging the massive deployment of forces to guarantee security during the Christmas season, continue to fear for their safety. As of today, the police have not taken any action over the violence that began at the end of August, and those responsible for the killings and violence are still roaming free. The situation is being made even more tense by the emergence of a new fundamentalist group, the Hindu Yuva Vahini, formed to fight the Maoist groups and Christian communities.
In the camps set up by the government for refugees from Orissa, Christmas celebrations took place with extensive participation from the more than 10,000 Christians staying there.
Fr. Nithiya, a Capuchin friar and the executive secretary of the justice and peace commission of the conference of Indian bishops, spent the holiday in Kandhamal. Interviewed by AsiaNews, he said: "Even though we find innocent joy in the faces of the children on Christmas day in the camps, one could notice a sense of emptiness, an expression of grief and a tremendous expression of loss in the faces of people at large."
The celebrations in the camps were made possible thanks to the joint activity of the local security forces and the Central Reserve Police Force, together with the efforts of the entire administration in the district. The various security forces controlled the situation the entire night, while the faithful gathered in the camps prepared the celebrations.
The police chief encouraged the parishes to hold their services as planned, but many priests preferred to move up the Masses to before sunset. In the village of Pobingia, about 30 policemen watched over the celebration scheduled for 4:30 in the afternoon, in order to permit the faithful to return home during the daylight. But only about 20 people attended the function, mostly religious of the order of the Missionaries of Charity, and volunteers. There were very few local Catholics there, who, fearing for their safety, did not risk going out in public, after suffering violent intimidation in the recent past on the part of fundamentalists intending to convert them by force to Hinduism.
Fr. Nithiya celebrated the Mass in the camps of Tikabali and G Udayagiri, and visited the village of Banunigam. After sleeping in one of the tents set up to host the refugees, he described their conditions for AsiaNews: "People live in small canvass tents in each camp. In each tent there are around 5 to 7 families living together. There is no privacy. There is neither electricity nor water facilities. Both young and old, men and women live in the same tent under various types of inconveniences. What next? What is to be done to ensure the safe passage of people from camps to their homes? Even if the people go back to their villages, how will they be received

Another Christmas in Orissa

2009-01-02T17:26:00.007+01:00

Capuchin Br. Nithiya from the Tamil Nadu Province informed about a visit to the Indian state of Orissa during Christmas. He spent a day at a Relief Camp (where those who have had to leave their homes as a result of the earlier violence are seeking shelter) on Christmas day to be with the people there, as well as to celebrate mass with them. Br. Nithiya is the Secretary of the National Commission for Justice, Peace and Development of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India. He wrote:

I am writing this short note to inform you that I am safe and the people in Orissa were safe on Christmas. However, we are not sure of their security. The Xmas celebration was peaceful on the whole. Thank you very much for the prayers for Orissa. I am still in Orissa. I shall send you a report of my experience soon.

From 24th evening, I had been moving from one camp to another, celebrating mass and meeting people. After the midnight mass in a camp of 2000 people, I slept in a small tent meant for 7 families. I began my trip to other camps all through the day. Around 10pm, I had some meals in a roadside restaurant and returned back here in Bhubaneshwar around 2am. I had celebrated mass in three places. The mass was presided by a local priest in Oriya language. The singing was superb in all camps. There was tight police security in all the camps. I could enter only with the special pass obtained from the Government authorities. There were also security checks along the road. It was all through a journey remembering the experiences of the plight of the Jewish people from the sufferings of Paraoh, of Mary and Joseph, rejected by humans from their houses... and the consequent birth of Jesus outside.... This was probably the best Xmas I had in my life. There is a tremendous power within, to move forward, to be strengthened in Faith and to learn from these holy people. My only wish and prayer is that these people should be in their own homes ( all burnt to ashes) in their own villages ( Rejected by neighbours as they are Christians) with dignity ( since they live under threat to life and dignity)

People are still living under tremendous shock and trauma. Already two persons died due to acute trauma. The people's faces show the fear and agony and their hope-less condition. They need to share and shed their tears and get mental relief and go ahead in hope. Hence I am organising two trainings for local people to thie effect. One will be a 10 days course on Trauma Counselling and the other is on the use of NLP Neuro Linguistic Programme for five days.
Please keep these programmes for the victims in your prayers. There is a long way to go. I shall write to you again about this.

Wish you a very happy New Year, filled with Peace and Joy based on Justice and Truth.
Yours brother
Nithiya

Franciscans International on Facebook - Join the cause!

2008-12-11T11:06:00.004+01:00

Franciscans International (FI) is now available on facebook. The so called social networks like facebook are an important instrument of promoting ideas and values. We should help to promote the cause of Justice and Peace and we should promote our own NGO by joining their site and inviting our friends to do the same. FI needs our moral and also economic support. What service they offer to us: They are the professionals who bring our values to the political leaders of this world. Many of us don’t even know their local representative in the parliament. With FI we have access to country leaders through the UN. Join the cause!

A friar and his bullet-proof jacket - A Capuchin sees the war in Congo and its victims

2008-12-02T10:11:00.008+01:00

Br. Luc Vansina is a belgium Capuchin working in Congo. He describes his visit in the area of the country where the war is back.

Goma, November 19, 2008 6 a.m., a convoy of humanitarian aid prepares to leave towards Rutshuru and Kiwanja, 75 km in the north of Goma. Hundred tons of food aid will be transported towards this area by the inter logistic agency of the United Nations and escorted by Monuc.
An impressive convoy prepares with an euphoric emotion because it is the fifth and, for the moment, the last convoy for Rutshuru and Kiwanja. Everyone realizes the difficulties of the dangerous mission. At 06.30 a.m., we receive our white helmet and a bullet-proof jacket. An Indian general of the Monuc gives the instructions for the departure. The convoy is on its way. [more IN, IT, FR]

Missionaries celebrate with OFM General

2008-11-16T19:54:00.003+01:00

The whole group of missionaries from Brussels gathered on Friday November 14th at the Generalate of the OFM with the OFM-General Br. José Rodríguez Carballo. They celebrated the end of this session. The next Course in French will take place in 2009 from March 2nd to May 24th and in English language from August 31st to November 22nd. more

Franciscans International draws the attention of the UN Human Rights Council to the human rights violations in Orissa, India

2008-09-21T20:27:00.004+02:00

On September 17th, Franciscans International presented the ongoing violence against Christians in India at the United Nations Human Rights Council. We publish the actual text presented at the UNHRC, Geneva. More information at www.franciscansinternational.com

Human Rights Council,
9th Session, Item 4
Communal violence in Orissa, India
16 September 2008

Mr. President,

Franciscans International would like to draw the attention of the Human Rights Council to the pattern of communal violence and impunity that has developed in India over the last years.

The most recent example is the current crisis in the state of Orissa. As I speak to you, 23,000 people are living in overcrowded relief camps and many others are in hiding. They are mainly Tribals and Dalits of Christian faith, whose lives are threatened if they do not convert to Hinduism. The ongoing Anti-Christian violence has resulted in the death of at least 35 individuals and the destruction of more than 6,000 houses and over 90 religious buildings.

Franciscans International condemns this outbreak of violence and the lack of protection given by the police who reacted slowly and insufficiently, despite the fact that it was foreseeable.

Another example of communal violence is the conflict that occurred in the state of Gujarat in 2002, after a clash that left as many as 2,000 people dead, most of them Muslims. Prosecution of those accused of violence was largely insufficient, and no substantive investigation was carried out about the responsibility of the regional government. This must not be repeated again.

Mr. President,

Every necessary step should be undertaken in order to protect human rights in Orissa, in particular the right to life and religious freedom. The IDPs also deserve special and adequate protection.

It is essential that human rights violations do not remain unpunished, and that an impartial investigation is carried out. Witnesses and human rights defenders need adequate protection.

We welcome the condemnation of the violence by the Indian government, as well as the Supreme Court’s intervention in asking the Orissa government to protect the people and their properties. It is our hope that the Supreme Court will guarantee the primacy of religious freedom and the principle of non-discrimination regarding the “Anti-Conversion laws”, recently defined by the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion as a tool to vilify specific religious groups.

The episodes of violence are also a result of the continuous discrimination faced by lower castes and “outcasts”. Continuous efforts are needed to abolish this pattern of discrimination.

It is our hope, that this Council will encourage the Indian government to take all necessary measures to guarantee all human rights, in particular the right to life, integrity and religious freedom; and to protect the victims of violence; to prosecute the perpetrators of human rights violations, and to prevent such violence from occurring again.

We thank you Mr. President.

TWENTY YEARS OF MISSIONARY PRESENCE IN UGANDA

2008-09-20T20:33:00.002+02:00

CUSTODY OF ST. CHARLES LWANGA, UGANDA

On October 1, 2008, we, the Capuchin Brothers of the Most Holy Trinity Province, Karnataka, India, are marking 20 years of our missionary presence in Uganda – The Pearl of Africa. Entrusting Ugandan Mission to our Province, in his letter dated 27th September 1987 (Prot. N. 01447/87), the then Minister General, Br. Flavio Roberto Carraro decreed: “…that the territory of Uganda be assigned to the Province of Most Holy Trinity, and that steps be taken for an eventual Capuchin presence in that nation, blessed by the blood of martyrs…”

On October 1, 1988, the feast day of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, the Patroness of Missions, (with the sad memory of the tragic yet sacrificial death of one of the pioneers Br. Walter Saldanha on 31st March 1988, in a road accident in Tanzania, still lingering in their minds), the three friars (Br. Lawrence Dilraj Sequeira, Br. Anthony Alphaeus D’Souza and Br. Silvano DeSouza), landed on Ugandan soil. The implantation of the Franciscan Capuchin Order (i.e., to form Ugandan Capuchins on Ugandan soil), being the main intention, a three-phased programme was chalked out as a minimum long-term goal to be achieved by the friars in Uganda: (i) Establishment of a fraternity and service to the Local Church; (ii) Focus on vocation promotion and, (iii) Working out a formation programme.

As I look back to those 20 fruitful years and evaluate our missionary presence in this blessed country, my brothers, it gives me a feeling of great joy and satisfaction, peace and contentment. With the Psalmist I say, “I will extol you, my God and King; I will bless Your Name forever. Every day I will bless You; I will praise Your Name forever” (Ps 145, 1-2).

Br. John Corriveau, the former General Minister, during his pastoral visit in 1996 had made this comment: “The obvious dedication and zeal with which the friars have undertaken the implantation of the Capuchin Franciscan Charism in Uganda, the clear priority given by them to the witness of fraternal, evangelical life, the spirit and observance of fraternity prayer, the simplicity of life, given the certitude that this focussed dedication of the friars will bear rich fruit for the future of the Order in Uganda” (Prot. N. 01054/96).

Going back to the beginnings, Br. Liguory Noronha, the then Provincial Minister, in his article “In the Mission of the Master” wrote: “Fear prevents us from ‘going into the world’ - fear of fewness in number, fear of failures, fear of the strange and the unknown. It is in this fear-filled situation God’s Word reassures us: ‘Do not be afraid, I am with you. I shall be with you till the end of the ages.’ With God we are strong. With faith in his unfailing love we go beyond, from Jerusalem to Judea, from Judea to Samaria, from Samaria to all the lands.” God’s love, in fact, compels us to be in the mission of the Master and go from the ‘Jerusalem of Judea’ of our Province ‘into the world’ of Uganda.

We, the brothers of the Most Blessed Trinity Province, are chosen and sent to participate in the mission of Jesus, to the people of Uganda. Like Francis and Clare, we are invited to live and share a form of life which knows no bounds. The more we become aware of the relevance of the Gospel way of life, the more effective will be our lives. Our purpose is to live the life of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, after the manner of the Jerusalem community. To live the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is to please God in all things. This is above all else our ‘missionary vocation’. St. Francis was God’s gift to the Church of his day. He was clearly a man of his time and place. We are God’s gift to the people of Uganda. It is our responsibility to continue the good news of salvation by becoming another Christ, like our Seraphic Saint.

Our five fraternities in three Dioceses have made a great impact on the lives of people. The work of brothers in pastoral, educational, medical and social field is commendable. The vocation promotion and formation that we began in 1994 has begun to yield fruits. To have six brothers in perpetual profession, 15 in first profession and a good number of candidates in initial stages of formation is indeed a matter of great joy. The initial stages of formation are carried out very well within the jurisdiction. Thank you very much dear formators. I am also grateful to the jurisdictions of Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia who welcome our brothers to the special formation.

In these past twenty years, twenty two brothers from the Mother Province have rendered their valuable service in the mission. Eleven have returned to the Province and only eleven are working tirelessly to carry out the work of evangelization. The mother Province has been always ‘motherly’ and we hope that this care and concern will still continue in the years to come. I thank sincerely every brother who has contributed his ‘little’ or ‘big’ share in making the Custody rich and fruitful. We have grown from ‘Presence’ to ‘Mission’ ‘Mission’ to ‘Custody’ and we hope to grow from ‘Custody’ to ‘Vice-Province’. The financial support of General Minister and the Definitory through the Office of Economic Solidarity and the generous help of benefactors and friends has been a great support in the formation of the young brothers. I remain very grateful to you all.

This world of ours is shattered by violence and war, conflicts and tensions, social injustice and exploitation, unjust structures and oppression. It can easily lead one to discouragement and despair. In such a situation, we, the brothers of Francis have an important role to play to bring about peace and justice, hope and goodwill. Even though justice and brotherhood are values unquestionably accepted all over the world by everyone, irrespective of one’s religion or political ideology, they are yet to be put into practice. It is the task of every believer and every Franciscan, to listen to the cry of the poor and the needy, to reach out in meeting their spiritual and physical needs.

Brothers, we are challenged once again, to be ‘on mission’ like Jesus to the world of today, a world of division, hatred, greed, exploitation, violence, sin and death. To be ‘on mission’ signifies confronting squarely these negative forces in love, humility, and service even to death. Jesus repeats the same words today as he did long ago: “As the Father has sent me, I send you now” (Jn 14, 24). Let us remind ourselves with the words of our Seraphic Saint “Brothers, so far we have done very little, let us begin.” (Bulletin of the Custody)

2008-06-02T10:59:00.005+02:00

Miradaglobal.com "Reflection and dialogue from Latin America"
Miradaglobal.com is a portal online, guidance Christian, committed to dialogue and contribute to the construction of justice and harmony in the Latin American community.
Miradaglobal.com us weekly articles in Spanish, English and Portuguese so that we can tell us, think and talk about the current issues in Latin American Society, Politics, Culture, Environment and Economy.
Miradaglobal.com is an interactive area of open exchange both regard the man as the woman that seeks think, share and learn about Latin American reality. Director: Antonio Delfau S.J.

Miradaglobal.com “Reflexión y diálogo desde Latinoamérica”
Miradaglobal.com es un portal on-line, de orientación cristiana, empeñado en dialogar y contribuir a la construcción de la justicia y armonía en la comunidad latinoamericana.
Miradaglobal.com ofrece semanalmente artículos en español, inglés y portugués para informarnos, reflexionar y dialogar sobre la actualidad latinoamericana en temas de Religión, Sociedad, Política, Cultura, Medioambiente y Economía.
Miradaglobal.com es un espacio interactivo de intercambio abierto y respetuoso del hombre y la mujer que busca pensar, compartir y conocer la realidad latinoamericana.
Director: Antonio Delfau S.J.

Miradaglobal.com "reflexão e diálogo entre a América Latina"
Miradaglobal.com é um portal online, de orientação cristã, empenhada em dialogar e contribuir para a construção da justiça e harmonia na comunidade latino-americana.
Miradaglobal.com apresenta artigos semanais em Espanhol, Inglês e Português, para informar,refletir e dialogar sobre as questões atuais da América Latina na Sociedade, Política, Cultura, Ambiente e Economia.
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http://www.miradaglobal.com/

Bruxelles - Brussels 2008

2008-04-16T12:26:00.007+02:00

The French program at Brussels just finished at the end of May.

The five Capuchins participating at the course were:

Br. Damiano ANGELUCCI (Italy), Br. Francis BASANI (India), Br. Grzgorz SWIDERSKI (Polonia), Br. Jacek DYBALA (Polonia), Br. Jean Ndolo MOBENZA (Congo).

Br. Aubert BERTRAND served as the Coordinator on behalf of the Capuchins. He was very much appreciated as valuable resource person by all the participants. Thank you very much for offering your time and your experience!

The next course of our formation program for missionaries will be done in English from 30^th August to 23^rd November 2008.

The course is meant for all those brothers who are preparing to leave their own culture and to go to a “Mission” (it is applicable also to those going from South India to North India, or those going to Europe). It is not designed for those who go only for a short experience. They should go for some years. The past has shown, that participation was more fruitful for those who had already made an experience in a specific mission area. So we specially invite Missionaries who recently started working in the “Mission”.

Lo stile di evangelizzazione - Spiritualià missionaria

2008-04-14T12:27:00.001+02:00

Desidero segnalarvi la Settimana Nazionale di formazione e spiritualità missionaria prevista alla Cittadella di Assisi dal 29 agosto al 3 settembre 2008.

Il tema della settimana 2008 sarà Lo stile di evangelizzazione delle prime comunità cristiane e si legherà insieme alla trattazione dello scorso anno sulla Parola di Dio in cammino nella storia – tematica che sarà al centro del Sinodo dei Vescovi del prossimo ottobre – e alla celebrazione dell’anno giubilare dedicato a San Paolo che si aprirà il prossimo 28 giugno a circa duemila anni dalla nascita del grande Apostolo delle Genti.

Sperimentiamo ogni giorno che non solo le parole e i gesti evangelizzano, ma anche lo stile delle proposte e soprattutto lo stile di vita dei cristiani e delle comunità. Vorremmo così interpellare l’esperienza delle prime comunità, di cui Paolo è insieme testimone e protagonista, per rivisitare il loro modo di evangelizzare e verificare quanto lo spirito e le scelte delle origini continuano nella Chiesa di oggi.

Trovate più informazioni e la scheda di inscrizione sulla pagina web: http://www.chiesacattolica.it/cci_new/PagineCCI/index1.jsp?idPagina=23

Il termine di raccolta delle iscrizioni è il 30 giugno 2008.

La mitad de Nicaragua - una diocesís capuchina: Bluefields

2008-04-02T12:10:00.005+02:00

(First part Spanish, than English; primera parte Español, después Inglés)

El Vicariato de Bluefields fue erigido en el año 1913, el 2 de diciembre. El Papa de aquel tiempo, San Pío X, encargó a la Orden Capuchina el cuido espiritual de esa porción de Nicaragua, que se identifica con los Regiones Autónomos de Atlántico Norte y Sur y de Zelaya Central. La Provincia de Cataluña, España, empezó el trabajo misional formal en 1914 y se retiró de la Misión de Bluefields en 1943, debido a la falta de personal. Pero el Padre General Capuchino encargó la misión a los Capuchinos norteamericanos de la Provincia de Detroit, Michigan, quienes todavía están en la misma zona. En 1982 con la creación de la Vice Provincia General de América Central, el Padre General entregó esta misión a la Vice Provincia de América Central.

El territorio de la Misión cubre casi la mitad de la República de Nicaragua, con 59 mil Km² y unos 620,640 habitantes dispersos en pequeñas comunidades y caseríos. La gente ocupa el idioma español como lengua oficial, pero hay unos 104,666 de habla miskita, 6,539 de habla mayagna y 15,956 de habla inglesa creole.

Notes on my visit to Nicaragua in February of 2008 (from Sister Agnes Fischer, Green Bay)

I had been invited by Bishop Paul Schmitz, bishop of the Vicariate of Bluefields, Nicaragua, to continue working on the Vicariate archives. Upon arriving on February 4^th, I found that Bishop Paul’s secretary, Carmen, who is actually retired and caring for her aged mother, was immersed in compiling the “Quinquennial Report” to Rome. This is a report each diocese submits every five years prior to their “Ad-Liminum” visit to Rome. The report, which was due in 2003, and the visit were deferred at that time because of Pope John Paul II’s illness and death. So this report would cover eight years.

Since I had prepared the last report in 2000, Bishop Paul asked that, instead of working on archives, I would help Carmen with this one. I actually spent all of my time on the report and found some very interesting facts about the growth of the Vicariate in the last eight years.

One new parish was established in2001 bringing the number to 14. 4 native priests were ordained. Of the 24 priests in the Vicariate, 13 are natives. 4 of these completed studies in Rome in Canon Law, Misiology, Spirituality, and Scripture. The number of Capuchin priests has decreased from 9 to 7, including the two bishops. As the North American Capuchins now serving retire from the mission, they are being replaced by native priests. Three native Capuchins from the Central American Vice Province are serving in one parish. The median age of the priests is 51, while the median age of the 14 active permanent deacons is 60. The average number of faithful per priest is 21,400.

The number of Sisters has increased from 48 to 60. Vocations among young women seem to be alive and well. In fact, one congregation sends a percentage of women in formation to its motherhouse in Spain for further studies because vocations on the Continent are not as plentiful as in Latin America.

Catholic rural schools have increased from 419 to 508 with an increase of students from 27 thousand to 29 thousand.

In the 14 parishes there are 940 Basic Christian Communities in what we call the mountain or “bush” area. These local churches are served by 1937 Delegates of the Word, up from 1716 eight years ago, and 5008 catechists, up from 3584. The Delegates conduct Sunday services and are generally considered community leaders or “lay pastors”. The catechists prepare people for reception of the sacraments and, in some parishes, teach Sunday school. Besides these ministries there are youth ministers, visitors of the sick, and committee members of all kinds. The Church of the Vicariate of Bluefields is alive with activity and committed people.

I spent one week end in the parish where we sisters had spent more than 25 years of our time in the Vicariate, Muelle de los Bueyes. I found that many of the projects that we worked on are still on-going, though somewhat changed and adapted to the natives that are running them. It is good to see the people taking ownership of their Church and its programs.

A program to help young people in the mountain communities complete their education, Studied by Encounter, which our community continues to support financially, continues and had been adapted to include youth with possible aspirations to the priesthood or religious life.

A new program in the health field is the establishment of a “Maternity House”. It has been in operation for one year. It is housed in the former jail building. This building has been completely renovated with help from “Project Denmark” I visited the house and can attest that it is lovely, light, clean, welcoming and comfortable. One would never imagine that it had been a jail. A woman with an at-risk pregnancy can come to stay in the house to await the birth of her child. Then she can stay for as long as necessary to recover and give the child a healthy start in life. The woman in charge of the house was the director of the rural health and midwives program. The Department of Health and the pastor asked her to take on this new role even as she continues to monitor the midwives and community medicine cabinet programs. Doña Silvia proudly informed me of the statistics for the first year. The house has 10 beds, a living room, kitchen, laundry, meeting room and office. During the first year of operation 58 women stayed there for a total of 773 days. 59 children were born. 47 births were normal; 12 were cesarean. There were no infant or maternal deaths.

The maternity house is also used for instructive programs on pregnancy, nutrition, breastfeeding, infant and child care, domestic violence, etc. Those who participate in these programs are midwives, pregnant women and sometimes their husbands, and women in general. The number of people attending the talks varied from 14 to 43.

Another big event for the parish of Muelle was the arrival of new Sisters. The parish had been five years without sisters as the congregation who replaces us stayed only three years. A congregation from Honduras, Franciscan Parroquial Collaborators, sent three Sisters, two Honduranians and a Mexican, to begin their mission. They were received in a solemn ceremony on February 28^th by the pastor, Father Javier, Bishop Paul, and happy parishioners. The charism of this congregation is to collaborate in parish ministries. We wish them and the parish peace and all good as they begin to work together.

Formation program for Missionaries in French

2008-02-14T19:21:00.000+01:00

Brussels 2007 English group

The next course of our formation program for missionaries will be done in French from 3 March to 30 May 2008.
It is meant for all those brothers who are preparing to leave their own culture and to go to a “Mission” (it is applicable also to those going from South India to North India, or those going to Europe). It is not designed for those who go only for a short experience. They should go for some years. The past has shown, that participation was more fruitful for those who had already made an experience in a specific mission area. So we specially invite Missionaries who recently started working in the “Mission”. The condition is knowledge of the French language.

Le prochain cours formation pour les nouveaux missionnaires sera donné en français, du 3 mars au 30 mai 2008.
Ce cours est destiné à tous les frères qui se préparent à laisser leur culture et à aller en « mission ». «Cela vaut aussi pour ceux qui vont du sud au nord de l’Inde ou en Europe». Ce cours n’est pas fait pour ceux qui partent seulement pour un court séjour, mais pour ceux qui partent pour quelques années. Sont invités aussi les missionnaires qui ont commencé à travailler en «mission». Une condition: connaître le français.

Équipe de la formation :

fr. Damien Isabell ofm (coordinateur) du USA
fr. Benoît Michel Amoussou, ofm du Benin
fr. Aubert Bertrand OFMCap du Quebec

Participants :

OFM

1.Loris (Luigi) d’Alessandro Sicile (Italie) Congo Brazza
2. Carlo Omar Duran Vasquez El Salvador Haiti

OFMCap

3. Francis Basani VP Andhra Pradesh, India Svizzerland
4. Jean Ndolo Movenza GVP Congo Congo
5. Kizito Sido Mbay GVP Congo Congo
6. Damiano Angelucci PR Marche, Italy Benin
7. Jacek Dybała PR Warsaw, Poland Gabon
8. Grzegorz Świderski PR Warsaw, Poland Gabon

Visit of Bro. Mauro; Bro. Damien (down)

2008-02-13T19:46:00.000+01:00

UN LAMA TIBETANO CAPPUCCINO

2008-02-11T16:02:00.001+01:00

fra Orazio Olivieri da Pennabilli (della Penna) che i tibetani chiamavano "Lama testa bianca"

"La scoperta e il rispetto dell'altro"

Il 15 giugno 1994 il Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso fu a Pennabilli a ricordare il cappuccino fra Orazio della Penna nel 250° della morte. Un evento eccezionale, che testimonia il valore sociale e culturale della presenza dei missionari cappuccini nel lontano paese dell’oriente, che la Chiesa cattolica tentò di evangelizzare agli inizi del ‘700. Francesco Orazio Olivieri nacque di nobili origini a Pennabilli nel 1680. Soltanto terminati gli studi entrò in convento a Pietrarubbia, facendosi cappuccino. In quegli anni la Chiesa di Roma aveva deciso di istituire una missione in Tibet, affidandola alla cura dei cappuccini della Marca. L’esperienza durò pochi anni per difficoltà sia di inserimento nel tessuto sociale tibetano sia per mancanza di mezzi. Nel 1712 venne inviata una nuova missione. Della piccola comitiva di frati faceva parte anche il nostro Orazio, che, partito nell’autunno del 1712, arrivò quattro anni dopo nella capitale Llhasa dove, ottenuto il placet delle autorità, si stabilì nel grande monastero buddista di Sera, centro culturale nel quale studiò la lingua, la cultura, gli usi tibetani. Fra Orazio apprese perfettamente la lingua tanto da pubblicare nel 1732 il primo dizionario tibetano-italiano con ben 33.000 vocaboli, un testo rimasto unico per secoli. In buoni rapporti con i monaci, con lo stesso Dalai Lama e con il Reggente, padre Orazio (“Lama testa bianca” come lo chiamavano affettuosamente i locali) e gli altri cappuccini operarono al servizio della gente del posto, soprattutto praticando la medicina. Tale attività insieme alla mitezza dei comportamenti procurano loro l’affetto della gente: “voi che siete venuti da molto lontano con la mentalità che non è rivolta a cibo, guadagno, fama, donne e sostentamento, siete stati utili a molte creature” è scritto in una corrispondenza con il Reggente. La missione aveva però bisogno di aiuti e finanziamenti, motivo per il quale fra Orazio tornò a Roma dove, nel 1736, ottenne denaro e strutture (addirittura una stamperia con caratteri tibetani). Nel 1738 riprese la via dell’oriente insieme a tre confratelli, e il 6 gennaio 1741 fu finalmente di nuovo a Llhasa. Dal Dalai Lama e dal Reggente, ai quali consegnò una lettera e ricchi doni del Papa, ottenne di mantenere la missione e di esercitare liberamente azione evangelizzatrice e di proselitismo. L’ospizio funzionò sempre di più, la stamperia produsse opuscoli e interventi a favore della chiesa cattolica ma anche traduzioni di testi tibetani. Sembrava che la presenza dei frati continuasse in un clima di grande serenità, ma la disobbedienza di alcuni convertiti in alcuni obblighi verso lo stato (non dimentichiamo la netta convergenza esistente in Tibet fra stato e religione) portò la missione ad essere vista come nemico del popolo tibetano. Nonostante il prestigio di Orazio, i frati vennero sempre più evitati sino alla drastica decisione di chiudere e distruggere a furor di popolo la piccola missione il 20 aprile 1745. I cappuccini ripararono nel vicino Nepal, nella missione di Patan. Qui, scorato e vinto, fra Orazio della Penna si spense poco dopo, il 20 luglio 1745.

da: www.oraziodellapenna.com

Il Dalai Lama scrive a un Cappuccino

2008-02-10T16:08:00.000+01:00

Lettera del VII° Dalai Lama al Padre Orazio Olivieri da Pennabilli

23 luglio 1733

"Non poco e stato il piacere e la consolazione che ci ha dato la tua lettera, la notizia della tua buona salute e la sciarpa che ci hai inviato o Lama Orazio che possiedi tutte le virtù e un cuore d'oro. Noi siamo in buona salute e sentiamo un grande dispiacere leggendo la tua lettera perché ci ricorda una volta ancora che hai lasciato il nostro regno; ma bada a te stesso ed al tuo viaggio e ricorda che il nostro cuore è unito al tuo. Abbiamo aiutato in tutte le cose il tuo compagno Giovacchino. Sebbene tu vada molto lontano nella tua terra non dimenticarti mai di noi. Stanno impressi nel nostro cuore tutti i discorsi che ci hai fatto con grande amore della tua religione e la lettura del tuo libro ci ha dato grande soddisfazione".

da: www.oraziodellapenna.com

2007-04-15T11:46:00.000+02:00

Dear brothers,
today, April 15th, my Mom had to move into a Nursery Home. I could spent Holy week with her and take care of her needs. Easter she spent with her granddaughter and her family. The picture shows her with Luis, her great-grandson. Unfortunately we can not assure the 24 hours assistance she now needs. Please pray for my Mom. She will become 85 on May 1st.