Inside this issue Pope Francis's Message on the World Day of Peace Mission Rosary and more - Pontifical Mission Societies
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VOL 79, NO. 2 SPRING 2021
Inside this issue
Pope Francis’s Message
on the World Day of Peace 6
Mission Rosary
and more...
When the World Mission
Rosary is completed, one has
embraced all continents, all
people in prayer
- Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen
The Society for the Propagation of the Faith
National Director’s Message
Mission Today magazine 2021
In This Issue…
Vol.79, No. 2 Spring 2021
National Director’s Message....................................2 The Society of St. Peter Report:
Happy New Year! Greetings was the central message in his encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, - the Jerome Antony.........................................................13
and blessing as we begin this call to global harmony and social friendship, that all people live Across the Globe........................................................4
New Year! We hope and pray together as a family. Holy Childhood Association Project Report:
2021 will be a time of renewal Pope Francis’s Message on the India...........................................................................14
and healing. In his 2021 World Day of Peace message, Pope Francis promotes World Day of Peace....................................................6
a culture of care as a path to peace, urging us against the prevail- Holy Childhood Association Project Report:
The year 2020 has been quite ing culture of indifference to the sufferings of others, of waste, of Gratitude and the Missionary Disciple...................8 Vietnam.....................................................................16
a difficult one for most of hatred and confrontation, to practice the Social Teachings of the
us, for our missionaries and Catholic Church. Mission Rosary........................................................ 10 In Remembrance......................................................17
the church. The coronavirus
pandemic did not only wreck Pope Francis on the Feast of Epiphany said, “There is no mission View from the Pew: Lori Lisi...................................12 The Editor’s Point of View......................................18
our health but left quite a without wonder.” (Agenzia Fides). He went on to share with us
lasting impact on most of our lives. Certainly, last year was a “the witnesses of Christ’s Salvation were not owners, custodians
year of many challenges, which caused all of us to reconsider or managers of the gift they were called to announce;” rather,
our priorities and recommit ourselves to proclaiming the Good they were the first to be called only to follow the light of Christ,
News bringing light in the midst of darkness. Pope Francis to enjoy his gift. The condition that makes them witnesses ac-
reminds us “these are moments in life that can be ripe for change cording to Pope Francis, consists in welcoming this light within,
and conversion. This is a moment to dream big, to rethink our in welcoming it ever more. Hence, we cannot be only managers.
priorities – what we value, what we want, what we seek – and Like the Magi, we too are called to allow ourselves to be fasci-
to commit to act in our daily life on what we have dreamed of.” nated, attracted, guided, illuminated and converted by Christ.
(Let us Dream. Pope Francis, 2020) Christ is the journey of our Faith as missionary Disciples. Let us
bring the Light out to our divided world and homes.
We will continue to hold on to hope and persevere for a brighter
and better tomorrow. It is my prayer that the birth of Jesus finds Wishing you God’s blessing and good health in 2021. Stay Safe,
a place in our hearts to dispel the frustration, suffering, grief and wear your Mask and observe protocols.
loneliness of those who have lost loved ones due to the Covid-19
Pandemic. One good thing the pandemic has taught us is that Rev. Fr. Alexander Osei, C.S.Sp
we are all in this together, and the best answer to its disastrous National Director.
effect is our unity and solidarity. According to Pope Francis
“Crisis can be overcome by the antibodies of solidarity.” This Praying together on a retreat for children in the Diocese of Palghat sponsored by the Holy Childhood Association. Full story on page 14.
Pontifical Mission Societies
The Pope’s Monthly Prayer Intentions:
Each year, the Holy Father asks for our prayers for a specific intention each month. You are invited to respond to the Holy Father’s
request and to join with many people worldwide in praying for the following intentions in the given month. Missions Today is published four times a Propagation of the Faith & St. Peter the Missions Today – The Editor -
year by the Society for the Propagation of Apostle: Income Tax Number: 2219 Kennedy Road
JANUARY: MARCH: the Faith, 2219 Kennedy Road Toronto, BN 12888 2883 RR0001 Toronto, Ontario M1T 3G5
Intention for evangelization - Human fraternity Intention for evangelization - Sacrament of Ontario M1T 3G5 Telephone: (416) 699 7077
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Universal intention - Violence against women Universal intention - Fundamental rights Editor: Deacon Dominic Pullano
We pray for women who are victims of violence, that they may Cover Photo: Deacon Dominic Pullano
We pray for those who risk their lives while fighting for funda- Mission rosaries can be purchased at most Comments on this issue or other topics
be protected by society and have their sufferings considered and mental rights under dictatorships, authoritarian regimes and even are always welcome.Contact us at:
Catholic bookstores.
heeded. in democracies in crisis. editor@missionsocieties.ca or at
Back Cover Photo: Deacon Dominic
Pullano
2 MISSIONS TODAY MISSIONS TODAY 3
Across the Globe
The Pontifical Mission Societies host their own web news service called agenzia fides. The news service is updated daily and al-
lows us to keep current about events around the world and within Catholic missions. Below are three articles from the website
and other news can be found at fides.org.
SIA/KYRGYZSTAN - Pastoral Letter for the new year: AFRICA/SOUTH SUDAN - A missionary: “Only love
“Christ is faithful to his Church and offers great oppor- and generosity build the Church”
tunities for grace, in the challenge of the pandemic” Naandi (Agenzia Fides) - “The mission of the Church is continu-
Bishkek (Agenzia Fides) - “2020 brought with it unprecedented ous, the completion of one work being the beginning of the next”.
challenges: many people fell ill, others continue to face serious eco- This is what Father Christopher Hartley Sartorius, a missionary
nomic difficulties. Our country went through political and social in South Sudan, wrote to Fides. The priest, originally from the
upheavals. For many, the worst part of this period was having to Diocese of Toledo, and currently working in the diocese of Tom-
coexist with great uncertainty about the future. Some may have bura Yambio, says that, once the construction of the two schools
started to waver in hope or to be challenged in their faith, won- is completed - the primary school of Saint Teresa and the second-
dering where God is and why He is allowing this to happen. The ary school of Saints Peter and Paul - from Naandi Parish, on the
Church continues to seek light in times of darkness. Christ is al- border between South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the
ways faithful and He alone has the last word in our life and in our Congo and Uganda, a project was immediately launched within
is going through. Political tensions have grown in Peru: a total of world. We do not know what 2021 will bring us, but we believe the community of Djabio to build a school with eight classes, a
three presidents have died in less than four years, and the coronavi- that God will continue to be faithful to His Church and will help parish church and a small presbytery.
rus epidemic has recorded 979,000 cases with over 36,000 deaths. us take advantage of the difficulties of our daily life to allow us “Currently in Djabio there is a parish school attended by about
“During this time of the pandemic - says Father Victor - we have to draw closer to Him and to each other. God is Light”. This is 350 boys and girls divided in eight courses”, writes Fr. Christopher.
organized activities of missionary animation and training in the what the Jesuit Fr. Anthony Corcoran, Apostolic Administrator of “Each class is gathered in a straw hut with trunks placed on the
context of virtual meetings. In collaboration with a local television Kyrgyzstan affirmed, in the pastoral letter issued on the occasion ground which serve as chairs and tables for the children. There is
station, Pax TV, we have set up a ‘missionary marathon’ with the of the New Year 2021, sent to Agenzia Fides. In his message, the also a small church that we would like to turn into a true parish
aim of making our work better known and at the same time to Jesuit underlined the presence of the Church alongside the faithful church, where the whole community can come together to cel-
raise awareness of the responsibility of every baptized person who during the most difficult moments of the pandemic: “We have all ebrate the faith and grow in holiness”.
is committed to fraternal cooperation of solidarity and support the witnessed extraordinary acts of charity and kindness. The Church
has managed to provide assistance to many people in need, not The missionary also points out that very often we think we know
proclamation of the Gospel to all peoples”.
just Christians but also of other faiths. There have been opportuni- what the poor need. “We believe we have to decide what they need
“We are far from overcoming this crisis”, underlines Fr. Livori, “be- but we do not. They are the protagonists of their own history of
ties for knowledge and collaboration born in the midst of the pan-
cause national production has drastically decreased and millions of salvation. God lives in them, among them, they are people of faith,
demic. Our communities were able to guarantee certain hospitals
jobs have been lost, including the most vulnerable”. A few months who trust in God. In every community we visited they all asked
the supply of necessary instruments. The Children’s Rehabilitation
before the presidential elections scheduled for April 2021, “Peru- us the same thing: a church, in addition to a school to help the
Center in Issyk-Kul has been made available to doctors, nurses and
vians - reports the National Director of the PMS - expect gov- wonderful children who populate these jungles”.
AMERICA/PERU - Social tension and health crisis: ernors to work in the interest of the common good, to overcome
volunteers who generously served the sick during this period of the
“We need to promote fraternity and solidarity” epidemic. As a Catholic community, we have managed to ‘come “The project of these first two schools in Naandi - he explains -
the controversies and uphold the rule of law and to seek consensus
together’ virtually every day. Christ offers His Church great op- was carried out thanks to donations, large and small, but all full
Lima (Agenzia Fides) - “Today, in our context of social tension, when it comes to the transformation of Peru”, the National Direc-
portunities of grace during critical periods and last year witnessed of love. The church is not built with cement or bricks, it is built
we must strengthen and give priority and attention to the health tor continued. “Today, as in the past - he concludes - the Peru-
His fidelity to us, His little Church in Kyrgyzstan”. from the proclamation of the Gospel, from the celebration of the
emergency and the economic and social crisis affecting our coun- vian Church continues to support its people by offering concrete
http://www.fides.org/en/news/69395 Sacraments, from works of charity and love. It is we who, united to
try. It is time to build evangelical paths of solidarity, fraternity and help and preaching the Gospel, in order to promote dialogue for
one another, not by cement but by love, are building the Church
integral development”, said Father Victor Livori, National Director peace, development and spiritual formation”. (ES) (Agenzia Fides,
of Jesus Christ, of which this building is a metaphor and a place
of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in Peru, speaking of the 12/12/2020)
of encounter and of praise”. (CHS/AP) (Agenzia Fides, 25/1/2021)
complex and delicate situation that the Latin American country http://www.fides.org/en/news/69216
4 MISSIONS TODAY MISSIONS TODAY 5
MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE community a welcoming home, concerned for every human need
and ready to care for those most in need. It became customary
…take up these principles as a “compass” capable of pointing out
a common direction and ensuring “a more humane future” in the
FRANCIS to make voluntary offerings in order to feed the poor, bury the process of globalization. This will enable us to esteem the value
FOR THE CELEBRATION OF THE dead and care for orphans, the elderly and victims of disasters like
shipwrecks. …
and dignity of every person, to act together in solidarity for the
common good, and to bring relief to those suffering from poverty,
54th WORLD DAY OF PEACE 6. The principles of the Church’s social doctrine as the basis for a
disease, slavery, armed conflicts, and discrimination. I ask every-
one to take this compass in hand and to become a prophetic wit-
1 JANUARY 2021 culture of care ness of the culture of care, working to overcome the many existing
A CULTURE OF CARE AS A PATH TO PEACE The diakonia of the Church’s origins, enriched by the reflection
of the Fathers and enlivened over the centuries by the active char-
social inequalities.
ity of many luminous witnesses to the faith, became the beating The compass of these social principles, so essential for the growth
1. …The year 2020 was marked by the 3. God the Creator, a model of care heart of the Church’s social doctrine. This doctrine is offered to of a culture of care, also points to the need for relationships be-
massive Covid-19 health crisis, which all people of good will as a precious patrimony of principles, crite- tween nations to be inspired by fraternity, mutual respect, solidar-
…Care for creation was at the heart of
became a global phenomenon cutting ria and proposals that can serve as a “grammar” of care: commit- ity and the observance of international law. …
the institution of the Sabbath, which,
across boundaries, aggravating deeply in addition to ordering divine wor- ment to promoting the dignity of each human person, solidarity How many resources are spent on weaponry, especially nuclear
interrelated crises like those of the cli- ship, aimed at the restoration of the with the poor and vulnerable, the pursuit of the common good weapons, that could be used for more significant priorities such
mate, food, the economy and migra- social order and concern for the poor and concern for protection of creation. as ensuring the safety of individuals, the promotion of peace and
tion, and causing great suffering and (cf. Gen 1:1-3; Lev 25:4). The celebra-
Care as promotion of the dignity and rights of each person integral human development, the fight against poverty, and the
hardship. I think especially of all those tion of the Jubilee every seventh sabbati- provision of health care. …
who lost family members or loved ones, cal year provided a respite for the land, …Each human person is an end in himself or herself, and never
and all who lost their jobs. I think too for slaves and for those in debt. In that 8. Educating for a culture of care
simply a means to be valued only for his or her usefulness. Persons
of physicians and nurses, pharmacists, year of grace, those in greatest need were are created to live together in families, communities and societ- …- Together with the family, schools and universities – and, in
researchers, volunteers, chaplains and cared for and given a new chance in life, ies, where all are equal in dignity. Human rights derive from this some respects, the communications media – are also responsible
the personnel of hospitals and health- so that there would be no poor among dignity, as do human duties, like the responsibility to welcome for education. They are called to pass on a system of values based
care centres. They have made, and are the people (cf. Deut 15:4). and assist the poor, the sick, the excluded, every one of our “neigh- on the recognition of the dignity of each person, each linguistic,
continuing to make, great sacrifices to
bours, near or far in space and time”. ethnic and religious community and each people, as well as the
be present to the sick, to alleviate their In the prophetic tradition, the biblical
fundamental rights arising from that recognition. Education is
sufferings and to save their lives; indeed, understanding of justice found its high- Care for the common good one of the pillars of a more just and fraternal society.
many of them have died in the process. est expression in the way a community
In paying tribute to them, I renew my treats its weakest members. Amos (cf. Every aspect of social, political and economic life achieves its full- - Religions in general, and religious leaders in particular, can play
appeal to political leaders and the private 2:6-8; 8) and Isaiah (cf. 58), in particu- est end when placed at the service of the common good, in other an indispensable role in handing on to their followers, and to so-
sector to spare no effort to ensure access to Covid-19 vaccines and lar, insistently demand justice for the poor, who, in their vulner- words, “the sum total of social conditions which allow people, ei- ciety at large, the values of solidarity, respect for differences, and
to the essential technologies needed to care for the sick, the poor ability and powerlessness, cry out and are heard by God, who ther as groups or as individuals, to reach their fulfilment more ful- concern for our brothers and sisters in need. …
and those who are most vulnerable. watches over them (cf. Ps 34:7; 113:7-8). ly and more easily”. Consequently, our plans and projects should
always take into account their effects on the entire human family, 9. There can be no peace without a culture of care
…These and other events that marked humanity’s path this past 4. Care in the ministry of Jesus and consider their consequences for the present and for coming The culture of care thus calls for a common, supportive and in-
year have taught us how important it is to care for one another and Jesus’ life and ministry represent the supreme revelation of the Fa- generations. … clusive commitment to protecting and promoting the dignity and
for creation in our efforts to build a more fraternal society. That ther’s love for humanity (cf. Jn 3:16). In the synagogue at Naza-
Care through solidarity good of all, a willingness to show care and compassion, to work
is why I have chosen as the title of this year’s Message, A Culture reth, Jesus showed himself to be the one consecrated by the Lord for reconciliation and healing, and to advance mutual respect and
of Care as a Path to Peace. A culture of care as a way to combat and “sent to preach good news to the poor, to proclaim release to …Solidarity helps us to regard others – whether as individuals or, acceptance. As such, it represents a privileged path to peace. “In
the culture of indifference, waste and confrontation so prevalent the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty more broadly, as peoples or nations – as more than mere statistics, many parts of the world, there is a need for paths of peace to heal
in our time. those who are oppressed” (Lk 4:18). These messianic actions, as- or as a means to be used and then discarded once no longer use- open wounds. There is also a need for peacemakers, men and
2. God the Creator, the source of our human vocation to care sociated with the Jubilee year, bear eloquent witness to the mission ful, but as our neighbours, companions on our journey, called like women prepared to work boldly and creatively to initiate processes
he received from the Father. In his compassion, Christ drew near ourselves to partake of the banquet of life to which all are equally of healing and renewed encounter”. …
…The birth of Cain and Abel begins a history of brothers and to the sick in body and spirit, and brought them healing; he par-
sisters, whose relationship is understood – even by Cain, however invited by God.
doned sinners and gave them new life. Jesus is the Good Shepherd From the Vatican, 8 December 2020 Franciscus
mistakenly – in terms of protection or “keeping”. After killing his who cares for his sheep (cf. Jn 10:11-18; Ezek 34:1-31). He is the Care and protection of creation
brother Abel, Cain answers God’s question by saying: “Am I my Good Samaritan who stoops to help the injured man, binds his
brother’s keeper?” (Gen 4:9). Cain, like all of us, was called to be wounds and cares for him (cf. Lk 10:30-37)…. The Encyclical Laudato Si’ is fully aware that all creation is inter-
“his brother’s keeper”. “These ancient stories, full of symbolism, connected. It also highlights our need to listen to the cry of the (This is an abbreviated version of Pope Francis’s New Year’s Day mes-
bear witness to a conviction which we today share, that everything 5. A culture of care in the life of Jesus’ followers poor and, at the same time, to the cry of creation. Constant and sage. For the full text, see
is interconnected, and that genuine care for our own lives and our The spiritual and corporal works of mercy were at the heart of attentive listening leads in turn to effective care for the earth, our http://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/peace/
relationship with nature is inseparable from fraternity, justice and charity as practised by the early Church. The first generation of common home, and for our brothers and sisters in need. … documents/papa-francesco_20201208_messaggio-54giornata-
faithfulness to others”. Christians shared what they had, so that no one among them mondiale-pace2021.html
7. A compass pointing to a common path
would be in need (cf. Acts 4:34-35). They strove to make their
6 MISSIONS TODAY MISSIONS TODAY 7
Pontifical Missionary Union:
An attitude of gratitude consists of being happy with what we we may even learn to recognize our blessings, not only at the end
have. It is only natural to compare ourselves with others and want of our day, but even as they are happening.
GRATITUDE AND BEING A MISSIONARY DISCIPLE
what others have. It is natural to see people who have more money
than we do, or who possess better homes with splashier cars than Another helpful practice to develop an attitude of gratitude is to
we do or have better jobs than we do, and desire more than we keep a thanksgiving journal. Whether we prefer an actual paper
possess. But these comparisons that we make with other people journal or are more comfortable with a Word document, we can
is not healthy. Seeing that others have more than we do may, not compose a list of our blessings. In our journal, we can remem-
only whet our appetites for what is unobtainable for us, but also ber the many ways God has blessed us; family and friends, food
The PMU, PONTIFICAL MISSIONARY UNION, was created us and wants to play a large role in our life. In his providential love, and shelter, an education and work. As we discover new blessings
make us envious of what others have as well. Comparisons will
on 31 October, 1916, an inspiration of Blessed Paolo Manna, PIME God cares for us daily and supports us in our journey through life. in our lives, we can keep adding to the list in our journal. The
only bring us to despair when we cannot attain to the level of
missionary, with the aim of animating and forming the faithful bap- Having an attitude of gratitude allows us to believe that whatever purpose of a thanksgiving journal is for those times that we may
others. These comparisons may also make us feel that we do not
tized in their missionary responsibility through the pastoral service of may be happening in our life at this moment in time, this is the be feeling gloomy or frustrated. In times that we may be feeling
measure up. Having an attitude of gratitude, however, signifies
the bishops and priests according to the motto “All the Church for all best place for us because this is where God has brought us. Since down, we can examine our list to see that things are not as bad
that we do not make these kinds of comparisons. An attitude of
the world”. In this issue, let us reflect on the role of gratitude in the life God is the author of our life, where we are right now is where as we may think. Our journals will help us to realize that our
gratitude means focusing on the blessings that we have been given
of the missionary disciple. we can best fulfill our potential and realize our baptismal call. blessings always outweigh our discouragements. A thanksgiving
without worrying about others who have more. We need to have
It is in our current circumstances that we journal will help us put our disappointments in their proper per-
a grateful heart for all that we have and not take the many bless-
can make the most of the gifts that God has spective.
ings that God has given to us for granted. An attitude of gratitude
given to us. God can even transform times
consists of wanting what you have. When we pray, we usually come to prayer with our list of things
of suffering and pain into graced moments.
The pascal mystery promises us that God While making comparisons with people who have more than we we want. Our prayer is often no more than a series of petitions.
can take even the most difficult periods do may have a negative impact in our lives, keeping an eye on But what might happen if we always began our private prayer time
of our lives and turn them into something those who have less than us may yield a more positive result. An with prayers of gratitude? Another practice that might assist us to
positive, into new life. Having faith that we attitude of gratitude should infuse us with compassion for those develop an attitude of gratitude is to begin our prayer sessions with
are in a special graced moment, then re- who struggle in the world. We have been abundantly graced with prayers our gratitude. Our prayer should always begin by thank-
gardless of where we are, we can always be the necessities of life, including shelter, food, and health care. We ing God for the many ways that God has blessed our lives. When
confident that we have something to offer have been blessed with beautiful churches within which to cele- we begin our prayer with acts of gratitude, we may even find that
others. By trusting God, we do not need to brate and pray, along with modern Catholic schools within which our list of things we want may dwindle to only a few special inten-
worry about giving of ourselves completely to learn the faith. Not only have we been blessed with material tions. For we will begin to understand how deeply blessed we are.
to others. For God will always ensure that resources. We have also been given many skills and abilities that As Catholics, we are called both to be missionary disciples and
we are more than compensated. When we we can use to assist our brothers and sisters in need. It is when a Eucharistic people. When we have an attitude of gratitude, we
see our lives as a blessing, then we can be we recognize how blessed we are that we can grow as missionary not only appreciate our many blessings, but we also hear the call
missionary disciples by passing on our bless- disciples. When we appreciate how blessed we have been by God, to share our blessings with those in the missions. An attitude of
edness to those in the missions. then that gratitude should also develop into compassion for others gratitude will inspire us to be missionary disciples in God’s vine-
who have been marginalized in our world. An attitude of grati- yard. Let us pray to God that we too can develop this attitude of
An attitude of gratitude also involves being
tude will open our hearts to share our blessings with those who gratitude. For it is the source for miracles in our own life.
surprised by small blessings. Any of us would be grateful if we had
As Catholics, we are all called to be missionary disciples. But as have less than we do. We have been given so much and with an at-
won a large lottery prize or are on a once in a life-time vacation.
Catholics, we are also called to be a Eucharistic people. The word titude of gratitude, we can bless the lives of
But an attitude of gratitude allows us to see God’s blessings in the
Eucharist is derived from a Greek word that means to give thanks. others as God has blessed us. Its is when we
daily activities of our life. An attitude of gratitude allows us to
We attend regular Eucharistic liturgies primarily to give thanks to have grateful hearts that we can become the
be thankful for the person who opens the door for us when our
God for sending us His Son to die for us on the cross so that we missionary disciples that God calls us to be.
hands are full or brings us a cup of coffee when we are too busy
might be saved. But as a Eucharistic people, we are to give thanks to make it for ourselves. God visits us in many small ways in our
to God more than just one hour a week. Since God blesses us daily There are a few practices that we can adopt
everyday lives and an attitude of gratitude helps us to be aware of to assist us in developing an attitude of
with his love and providence, we should always have a heart full of these blessings. Usually, we lead such frantic lives, full of activity
gratitude for God’s blessings in our lives. For Catholics, you might gratitude. One practice involves prayerfully
and commitments, that we do not always recognize these unas- going over our day each evening to discover
say that we need to develop an attitude of gratitude. Gratitude suming ways that God visits our lives. When we know our lives to
should be a defining feature of our journey of faith. As well, the the many ways God has touched our lives
be blessed, however, we learn to identify the positive interactions that day. As was mentioned, we often fail
gratitude that is in our hearts should spill over into our lives and in our lives as more than coincidences. We see these incidents for
guide our actions in this world. Gratitude, then, should also be to recognize God’s blessing in our lives be-
what they are, the hand of God working in our lives. When we cause we are so busy and don’t always ap-
a central characteristic of our call to be missionary disciples. It is can be surprised by small blessings, we can then appreciate that
only with an attitude of gratitude that we can understand our call preciate how God visits us amid the whirl-
even the smallest of blessings that we may pass on can make such wind of activity. By going over our day in
to be missionary disciples and be open to meeting the needs of our a significant difference in the lives of others. When we recognize
sisters and brothers in the missions. In this reflection I will discuss the evening, we can identify the ways God
the value of small blessings, as missionary disciples, we can be cer- blessed us that day and appreciate the con-
this critical connection between gratitude and missions. tain that even sharing our smallest blessings will be multiplied by tinuous presence of God in our lives. After
An attitude of gratitude begins with a deep trust in God. God loves God and will surprise our sisters and brothers in the missions. awhile of this prayerful, evening reflection,
8 MISSIONS TODAY MISSIONS TODAY 9
The Mission Rosary
The Mission Rosary was created in 1951 by the Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen who was the National Director of Missio (Pontifi-
Africa is represented by the green decade cal Mission Societies) in the United States. He saw the need to pray for the whole world, especially for those living in poverty. Each
for its forests and grasslands. colour-coded decade of the Rosary represents a continent where the Church continues her mission. Hail Holy Queen...
St Joseph, Patron and protector of the Universal Church
Archbishop Sheen said, ‘When the Rosary is completed, one has embraced all continents, all people in prayer.’ The Prayer unites us
The Americas are red to show with our brothers and sisters whom we have never met, and who are praying for us too, in an exchange of love and friendship. St Thérèse, Patroness of worldwide mission
the fire of faith. St Francis Xavier, Patron of missionaries
Pray for us
Europe is white because it is the home of the Holy
Father who dresses in white and lives in Rome. EUROPE
Peter declares Jesus as the Christ
Oceania is shown in blue for the
oceans surrounding the islands there.
(Matthew 16:16-18)
ASIA
‘Simon Peter said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living Jesus appears to the Eleven Disciples
God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona! Flesh (Mark 16:15)
Asia is portrayed in yellow as a and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven.
symbol of the sun rising in the East. You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church.”’ ‘Jesus appeared to the eleven. He said to them, “Go throughout
the whole world and preach the Gospel to all people.”’
We pray for the people of Europe: that all those who are discouraged,
anxious, sick or grieving, find acceptance and comfort in the warm We pray for the people of Asia: that they may respect one another’s
embrace of the Church. May the Pope, our bishops, priests and reli- beliefs, find God in every person and live together in peace. May the
gious, be joyful witnesses to the hope and peace they find in a life lived Church act so that all people are treated fairly and the poor and mar-
in Christ. ginalised feel cherished and valued.
THE AMERICAS
Jesus in the Synagogue at Nazareth
(Luke 4:16-20)
‘Jesus read from the book of Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is
upon me. He has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor,
to set prisoners free, give sight to the blind, release the oppressed
and proclaim the year of God’s mercy.”’
AFRICA
We pray for the people of the Americas: that God’s reign of justice,
The flight into Egypt
(Matthew 2:13-15)
OCEANIA
love and peace overcomes oppression, hatred and violence. May the Mary is our Mother
Church, driven by the zeal of the Holy Spirit, be a steadfast and fear- ‘An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, (John 19:26-27)
less advocate for the dignity of all God’s children. “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt...” They
went to Egypt by night and remained there until the death of ‘When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved
Herod.’ standing beside her, he said to his mother, “Woman, here is your
son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” And
We pray for the people of Africa: that those who are oppressed, perse- from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.’
cuted and live in fear may be safe and feel the comfort of God’s pres-
ence. May the Church heal wounds, build bridges and bring the hope, We pray for the people of Oceania: that they find comfort in knowing
love and peace of Christ to all those who suffer. that they are remembered and loved. May the Church demonstrate
the loving compassion of Mary, our Mother, and bring consolation to
all those who live in remote areas, who feel isolated or lonely.
The Mission Rosary is prayed like the usual Rosary, with the same opening and final prayers. Introduce each mystery with the reflections under each continent
10 MISSIONS TODAY MISSIONS TODAY 11
A View from the Pew... Society of Saint Peter the Apostle
Creating a Culture of Care The Vocation Story of Jerome Antony
“Happy New Year everyone!” What will you do? I would be ungrateful if I tell the story of carry and dispense the treasures of heaven
I can’t tell you how many how I have become who I am today, and for the salvation of souls in my fragile
times I’ve said this in my life- As we ring in 2021, we hear His Holiness Pope Francis’ New of who I will be, without acknowledging hands (God willing in 2021), one thing
time, and never has it meant so Year’s message, which he aptly titled ‘A Culture of Care as a Path the influence of the Christian formation has been consistent from the begin-
much as it does this year. This to Peace’, and contemplate on how we can respond to his request my grandmother instilled in me. That ning: the Lord invites me to drink from
new year brings new apprecia- for us “to take the compass [of care] in hand and to become a devout woman was determined and that same cup, blessed and consecrated,
tion for what used to be, grati- prophetic witness of the culture of care, working to overcome the persistent in making sure I took my faith in order to see and hear the cries of his
tude for what is and hope and many existing social inequalities.” seriously. Her impact on me was beyond wounded image among our brothers and
reverence for what is to come. just making sure I learned and practiced sisters, an invitation I share uniquely even
Before retiring, Lori Lisi was the The challenge for us remains to find ways to be ‘frontline’ work-
my faith. I observed how she persevered now in my capacity as the Director of De-
Coordinator of Programs for SecondarySaying goodbye to 2020 has ers in our own regard, from wherever we are, in whatever capacity
Schools at the York Catholic District in prayer and endured the crosses of life velopment Office. When it seemed that
certainly taken away some of we can. As parents, perhaps we need to practice more patience,
School Board. Lori is a member of St. with faith. How she fostered peace and seven years ago the Lord had shattered
the heaviness that we’ve all felt more listening and less talking when it comes to relating to our
David’s Church in Maple, ON. harmony with other people, and how she my dreams of giving my time, energy,
in our heart, since first hearing children’s current reality, so they don’t feel misunderstood; as
shared generously her time, energy and resources and gifts in advancing human
the word pandemic! Bidding children, we may need to make concessions to meet our parents
resources with the community, especially causes, today he has me working for him
farewell to a year filled with anxiety about the unknown, sadness where they’re at in their understanding of a world that is so dif-
those in need. Through her witness and in advancing the Spirituality of the Pre-
for our losses and trepidation for what will be, has forced us all to ferent from the one they grew up in, so they feel validated; as
education, I integrated into my human cious Blood, a spirituality represented,
promise to reflect, recharge and renew in anticipation of a new friends, we may need to reach out virtually on a regular basis to
development good values and habits. I most eloquently, among our brothers and
year filled with hope for a better tomorrow. This year, our New those friends who may have withdrawn from a world they can’t
cannot picture how my life could have been without her being in sisters who suffer poverty, violence, injustice, war and crime. He
Year’s resolutions have less to do with us as ‘individuals’ and more adjust to, so they feel connected; as neighbours, we may need to
the picture. However, rather than dwelling on what could have has also placed under my stewardship the C.PP.S. Mission Proj-
to do with us as a ‘community of people’ united and working make care packages (cooked meals, baked goods, flowers, reading
been, I choose to see her influence in my life as part of larger nar- ects, a unique ministry to work toward empowering people and
toward the common good. We give our greatest thanks to all the materials, etc…) as reminders to them that they are not alone;
rative God has written for me, and with which He wants me to communities we serve in Tanzania fight the roots and negative
frontline workers who put the needs of the world above their own, and as strangers, we may need to take the time to look up from
collaborate in freedom. In collaborating I discover the other parts conditions of poverty, ignorance and diseases.
in an effort to make a difference. They are the epitome of true our downward-masked-gaze and make eye contact and a gestured
that make who I am. I discover the true purpose of my life.
Christian disciples, making personal sacrifices for the betterment acknowledgement, so that that strangers in front of us know they Yet, the story of my vocation is also a story of great sufferings and
of humanity as a whole. As God “so loved the world, that he gave are not invisible. This gradual discovery of myself and openness to collaborate burdens, failures and disappointments. At times I have doubted
his only begotten Son,...(John 3:16) for the salvation of human- with the grace of God meant that I did not begin the journey if this is where God wants me to be. At times I had to fight
May 2021 bring hope, happiness and health to you and your loved
ity, we, too are called by Pope Francis to embrace a culture of care of my vocation to the priesthood with a dramatic calling like hard the temptation of my ego to obstruct Christ from increas-
ones and may God’s Grace continue to turn us inside out so that
and give rise to ‘a new horizon of love and peace of fraternity and that of St. Paul. I received my calling when I was working in ing. And yes, I have experienced episodes of the Dark Night of
we may be reminded of our call to be disciples of Christ and a sign
solidarity, of mutual support and acceptance.” (Pope Francis,1 Mwanza, Tanzania for an organization from UK that works Soul, where I have felt a loss of contact with God who, in such
of hope for one another.
January 2021) to create the structures that are needed to protect children and moments, has seemed very far and so silent. But through prayer
young people on the streets. There I heard concretely the cry of I have found strength to persevere everything. Prayer has also
How will you respond? Let’s make our Missions a Priority! the blood of our brothers and sisters who still walk this earth given me clarity, hope, consolation, and above all, it has brought
suffering miserable and humiliating conditions of poverty and me closer to God. Let us, therefore, become more and more
As much as 2020 has distanced us ‘physically’ from each other, it An easy way to help our missions is crime, who are denied justice, rights and dignity. That experi-
has had no power to distance our love for one another. In fact, it people of prayer, the fountain of all good things.
to set-up pre-authorize monthly donations ence broke my heart, and my prayer became that of lamentation:
has liberated us from being victims of time and money and has
focused our love on doing good for our brothers and sisters. It from your bank account or credit card. “how could you let this happen?” In my lamentation I heard the Sincerely, Jerome Antony.
Lord asking me to commit to him totally, to walk beside him, (Jerome will be ordained to the diaconate in the near future.)
freed us to be true to who we really are and has propelled us to To join this plan, please sign and send the forms
like Simon of Cyrene to lend him my legs, shoulders and hands
be caring and compassionate members of a community of people available from our website in bearing the beatings, torture and the lengthy trip to Calvary.
who have been awoken from the numbness of a society that had http://www.missionsocieties.ca/ways-to-give/ I took this calling to heart, but I did not know how to carry it. I The Society of St. Peter the Apostle promotes, in Christian communi-
fallen asleep to the needs of family and friends. Being jarred to an pre-authorized-giving/ thought he would place me in a place best suited to my back- ties, the awareness of the need to develop local clergy and consecrated
unfamiliar reality of masked individuals, repeatedly looking over
or by giving us a call. ground, gifts, skills, or interests. What he wanted instead was for life in recently founded missionary Churches. It animates and coordi-
their shoulders for the invisible enemy that had shattered their ex-
istence, has awoken in us a conscious awareness of the need to Should your situation change, you can cancel or change me to empty my “jar” and fill it with his living water and follow nates missionary collaboration in all the local Churches, through the
find ways to come together to win the battle against indifference, the donation amount at any time by sending us a note. him unreservedly. offering of prayer, sacrifices and alms, to support the formation of
detachment and apathy. Pontifical Mission Societies future priests and men and women religious of young Churches, and
Fast forward to seven years later, I am a missionary in Canada
416-699-7077 | 800-897-8865 | missions@missionsocieties.ca the necessary preparation of their formators.
with the Missionaries of Precious Blood. As I am preparing to
12 MISSIONS TODAY MISSIONS TODAY 13
Pontifical Association of the Holy Childhood:
Project Report: Diocese of Palghat, India.
demonstrates the Holy Childhood
Association is alive and well in the
diocese of Palghat and the funds that
Pontifical Association of the Holy Childhood: The Associa- “Spiritual Animation Programme for Children -2019.” In their
they received from Canada were well
tion exists to meet the spiritual and material needs of all chil- own words, the aims of the program were as follows:
spent. Naturally, all who benefited
dren so that they can live worthily as real children of God
The primary goal of this programme was to help the children to from this program and from our do-
and to raise children’s awareness of their neighbor’s needs and
know Jesus and to love Him as their friend. The programme also nations were greatly appreciative. Let
teach them the value and power of solidarity and reciprocal
helped children to know more about the Holy Childhood organi- us hear in the words of then Director
support.
zation, to develop their leadership qualities, to build in them a of Holy Childhood, Fr. Jomis Koda-
strong sense of missionary spirit and to impart Christian values kasseril, his expression of thanks:
In the southwestern area of India, in the state of Kerala, there lies to them. Utmost care was given to children to have the experience
the city of Palghat (a.k.a. Palakkad). Known as the gateway to We express our deep gratitude to…
like Holy Mary, “My spirit rejoices in God my Saviour.” (Lk 1:35)
Kerala, Palghat is renowned for an 18th century fort located in Colouring Book created for children of the Diocese of Palghat the benefactors for rendering help
All photos courtesy of Fr. Jomis Kodakasseril. to awaken the catholic missionary
the city and for an annual chariot race. The city has a very high Most of the main activities implemented through this program
literacy rate, much higher than the national average. About 4% were for the children of the diocese, as the quote above suggests. spirit of the children of the diocese of
the cross during Lent. These colouring books were distributed to
of the population is Catholic and, in June of 1974, the Diocese But the adult leaders of the HCA groups in the parishes also ben- Palghat. Our Bishop appreciates your kindness in a special way.
all the children of the diocese through their parishes.
of Palghat was created by Pope Paul VI. Currently, the diocese efitted from this program. Your donation helped us a lot to nurture the catholic values in our
has 56,668 faithful, 121 priests incardinated to it and 82 parishes Three regional retreats were organized for the children as well. children. The catholic community especially the members of holy
and 43 stations (missions). The Bishop of the Diocese is Bishop One of the outreach programs for the children was to take them to The purpose of these retreats was to help children realize that they childhood in the diocese of Palghat express our sincere thanks to
Jacob Manathodath and he is assisted by Auxiliary Bishop Mar local orphanages. The goal of these visits was to have the children too are missionary disciples of Jesus. No matter how young that you. Your financial assistance helped us a lot to improve our Holy
Peter Kochupurackal. The Holy Childhood Association also has experience how their fellow children live in an orphanage. They they might be, they too can pray for children who have much Childhood activities. This will surely reflect upon the behaviour
an extensive presence in the diocese. Most parishes have vibrant also brought donations of clothes and books that they distributed less than they do and help other children with small contribu- of our children. We offer our prayers for all your missionary ac-
HCA groups and there is a department at the pastoral centre, run to the orphans during their visit. Another activity that was sup- tions. The HCA department, along with a team of sixteen or- tivities especially those you render for the little ones. Once again,
by Fr. Thekkanath Christo, who animates and organizes parishes ported by this program were prayer sessions for HCA groups. ganizers, also ran various “Biblical competitions” throughout the we thank you and promise our prayers for you.
activities. After their catechism classes, children in the HCA group would diocese. These competitions aimed “at the all-round growth of the
gather for prayer with prayer books that were created with the May we in Canada, then, also follow the good example of our
children as well as the deepening of their Biblical knowledge.” A
In 2019, the Canadian Pontifical Mission Societies donated funds funds that we had donated. True to the vision of Pauline Jaricot brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Palghat, and continue to
fun way to grow in their faith, the children received certificates,
to support Holy Childhood Association activities in the Diocese for the Propagation of the Faith Society, the children also brought pray for them, especially their children.
awards, and prizes.
of Palghat. With the funds that they received, the Diocesan de- with them a small donation for needy children. Another initiative
partment of HCA developed a year-long program that they called of this program was to create a colouring book of the stations of Included in the Spiritual Animation Programme for Children
were leadership programs to support
those who worked with the children.
A leadership conference was orga-
nized for all parish volunteers. One
leadership camp was run in particular
for teens, who even after outgrowing
their parish’s HCA group, still con-
tinued to volunteer in the program.
The theme of the camp was “Pray-
ing like Mary.” A conference was also
organized for parents to teach them
to support the faith development of
their children.
As these brief descriptions of the
various activities of the Spiritual
Animation Programme for Children
Excursion of students to Orphanage Animators’ Conference
All photos courtesy of Fr. Jomis Kodakasseril. All photos courtesy of Fr. Jomis Kodakasseril.
14 MISSIONS TODAY MISSIONS TODAY 15
Pontifical Association of the Holy Childhood: sions. Some of the money that the sisters received was ear-
marked for these excursions. The sisters decided then to use
Project Report: Vietnam the money to support the families of the students. The pan-
demic, as most reports demonstrate, has hit the poor harder
than others. The villagers from Bon-go were no exception.
Most of them lost their jobs due to the pandemic and the
sisters provided the families with some essential food stuffs.
In the Dong Nai province of Vietnam, there is a small village Each family received rice, milk, cooking oil, noodles, and
named Bon-go. Like many developing, countryside villages in sugar. Clearly, this was justified use of the funds.
Vietnam, the inhabitants of Bon-go are extremely poor. But the
people there are also from a different ethnic group, which con- Sister Ane concluded her report with a plea that wrenched
tributes to their poverty. The inhabitants of Bon-go are from the my heart. She said, “We would be very grateful if you could
Chau Ma ethnic minority. In the village, there are 108 families continue to support these poor children so they can have a
with 123 children, whose ages range from 3 to 14. Given that they better education and brighter future. We believe that with
stem from a different ethnic group from the majority of the popu- your support they can have what they deserve.” Indeed, let
lation, they are often discriminated against and are afforded very us open our hearts and support these poor children of Vietnam.
few opportunities to advance economically. The average wage of
each family is about six US dollars a day. With this minimal wage,
families can barely afford to feed themselves, much less allow the
children to attend school. The poor nutrition has also led to poor (As this issue of Mission Today has focused on children and the Holy Childhood Association, let us take a
health among the villagers as well. moment to pray for the children in the missions, especially those impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.)
Sr. Ane Nguyen, a member of Our Lady of the Missions, reached
out to the Holy Childhood Association for funding so that the Prayer for Our Children
123 children from this village can go to school. The funds that Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of life. Thank You especially for the gift of the many children around the world whom
the sisters received provided for the tuition, school supplies, and You love and protect. Truly, they are a treasure for the world. They have the potential to transform their communities and make the
school uniforms for the students. Not only were the children now world a better place.
able to have a normal educational experience, but it also eased the
minds of the parents who were previously unable to support their As children in the church grow and mature, may the Catholic Church continue to be a good example for them always. Help the church
children with their education. Their education has also broadened time and much effort but all the children from the village were love and protect them as You have loved all your people. Enable the church to provide them with proper discipline and instruction.
the horizons of the students who had little knowledge of the world much healthier eventually. The students became more active and Make the church the instrument, Lord, by which they will come to know You. The mission of the church to its children is not an easy
outside their own village. were able to focus much better in class. With better health, they task, but with You, Lord, everything is possible.
made good progress in their studies.
The education of the children was affected by their poor health. Bless our children, God. Teach them how to live a holy life. Bless their minds with sound decision-making skills. Let their hands be
The sisters, therefore, also provided the students with two nutri- As in all parts of the world, education was anything but typical channels of Your blessing to their friends, classmates, and relatives. Let not their tongues be used to destroy others through harsh words.
tious meals a week, along with a daily allowance of milk. The this past year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Sr. Ane informs us Rather, enable them to speak words of life, encouragement, and grace.
children were very sick from the many years of eating poorly and that the school was shut down for three months. As well, they
Protect our children, Father God, each and every day. As they go to school, and as they come back home, be their shield and their
so the sisters also provided them with medication. It took some were not able for safety reasons to take the students on any excur-
fortress. Keep them away from the evils of this world. Let no bad influence corrupt their precious minds. Let no accidents fall on them.
Keep them away from illness. Last but not least, Lord, bless their studies. Allow them to gain more knowledge both about You and the
universe You created. May they develop minds that seek the Truth and find ways to contribute to justice and peace.
Lord God, we pray especially for all children who have been impacted by the pandemic, either physically or economically. Many chil-
dren around the world are hurting, and their parents cannot bear to see the pain in her eyes. For followers of Christ, there is nothing
that should hurt us more than seeing any child suffering. It is during these times that we should wish to do something more for them.
For that reason, Lord, we come to you in prayer and ask to help our children. Thank You ahead of time, Lord, for your healing touch
that you will grant our children.
Thank You so much, Lord Jesus, that we are able to draw strength and healing from You. Even during the times when we are weak, You
are always strong. Thank You, Lord, that You also share that strength with our precious children when they need it the most.
Lord, this is the new year that You have made, and help us to rejoice and be glad in it. Thank You, Lord, for another year to serve You
and to live life in fullness. Thank You for restoring our strength for this year. Thank You for the bright hope that we have for the year
ahead. Truly, Lord, life is more worth living with You to guide us always.
Covid-19 relief efforts for village of Bon-go.
We make this prayer through the name of Jesus our brother and saviour. Amen.
All photos courtesy of Sister Ane Nguyen, Our Lady of the Missions.
16 MISSIONS TODAY MISSIONS TODAY 17
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