Overcoming Fear - The Magazine of the Missionary Society of St. Columban
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
The Magazine of the Missionary Society of St. Columban August/September 2021
Overcoming
Fear
C
Volume 105 - Number 5 - August/September 2021
o n t e n t s Columban
Mission
Issue Theme – Overcoming Fear
Published By The Columban Fathers
Columban Mission (Issn 0095-4438) is
published eight times a year. A minimum donation
of $15 a year is required to receive a subscription.
Send address and other contact information changes
by calling our toll-free number, by sending the
information to our mailing address or by emailing
us at MISSIONOFFICE@COLUMBAN.ORG.
A COVID-19 Wedding 8 Mailing Address:
Missionary Society of St. Columban
1902 N. Calhoun St.
St. Columbans, NE 68056-2000
Toll-Free Phone: 877/299-1920
Website: WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG
Copyright © 2021, The Columban Fathers (Legal Title)
PUBLISHER
REV. JOHN BURGER, SSC
DIRECTORUSA@COLUMBAN.ORG
EDITOR
KATE KENNY
The Call to Justice 12 KKENNY@COLUMBAN.ORG
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS
MARCI ANDERSON
MANDERSON@COLUMBAN.ORG
4 A Dead Man Can’t Witness a Marriage RENEA STEELE
And Other Errors! RSTEELE@COLUMBAN.ORG
DYANNE WENDLING
10 Can You See Me Smile? DWENDLING@COLUMBAN.ORG
Connecting While Wearing a Mask
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
16 Birmingham Seagull KRISTIN ASHLEY
God’s Spirit EDITORIAL BOARD
DAN EMINGER
17 Ongoing Response to God’s Love KATE KENNY
Mission in Korea ERNIE MAY
REV. JOHN BURGER, SSC
19 Mission During COVID-19 JEFF NORTON
An Apocalyptic Time SCOTT WRIGHT
20 Five Hundred Years of Christianity in the Philippines
Columban Involvement The Missionary Society of St. Columban was
founded in 1918 to proclaim and witness to the
22 Faith + Love = Unity Good News of Jesus Christ.
Inclusive Faith The Society seeks to establish the Catholic
Church where the Gospel has not been preached,
Departments help local churches evangelize their laity,
promote dialogue with other faiths, and foster
3 In So Many Words among all baptized people an awareness of their
missionary responsibility.
23 From the Director
By Fr. Michael Riordan
Hospice Painting
C
olumban Fr. Michael Riordan, parish priest of Geumak Parish in Jeju island writes about the mural found at
the door of St. Isidore Hospice and pastoral its function apart from its aesthetic value. The hospice takes care of
people who are at the last stage of life.
While the artwork could not be called “religious art” in the strict sense of the word, I would care to call it “pastoral
art” not in the sense that it is of nature but that it has a pastoral purpose. These works of art are painted on the walls of the
entrance to the Isidore Hospice for the dying and also on one of the walls and door of one of the rooms there.
The purpose of the hospice is to care for people at the last stage of life; to accompany them as they prepare to leave this
world. Whether they are Christians or not we also aim to let them experience God’s love during this time. The way we listen
and talk with the patients and their relatives and the respect we show them in the way we treat them are all part of this work.
I also think the atmosphere is important
and without the painting the entrance and
corridor had a very clinical and hospital feel I n this sense the artwork is part of the care
about them. The paintings softened the
atmosphere and this has an effect not only and pastoral approach of the hospice.
on the patients but also on the people who
work there. It makes a difference to the way
one feels as one enters the hospice; rather than a cold and clinical feeling it gives a sense of warmth. It also shows that the
hospice has made an effort to make those entering feel a bit more at ease and comfortable. In this sense the artwork is part
of the care and pastoral approach of the hospice.
Columban Fr. Michael Riordan is the parish priest of Geumak Parish in Jeju Island, South Korea.
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 3
A Dead Man Can’t
Witness a Marriage
And Other Errors!
By Fr. Frank Hoare
The Catholic Indian choir
T
he marriage ceremony was groom’s party – my first time ever to damage to the main roads. We would
almost finished. It was time for do so. I arrived at the groom’s house in have to bypass a broken section of the
the civil wedding. The groom’s Suva, on the main island of Fiji, in the road by following the old dirt road. This
younger brother had informed me that early morning. I was a stranger to most meant a difficult two hour journey by
the witness from the bride’s side would of the extended family gathered there. road to Savusavu. We struggled in stop-
be Durga Prasad. So to save time I had They appeared to look at me as though start fashion through torrential rain and
written this on the certificate before I was out of place. arrived at the bride’s house at 11:30 a.m.
the marriage ceremony. Now the Everyone was taking photos I began the wedding at 12:00 p.m. Time
bride looked up from the certificate everywhere — at the groom’s home, would be tight.
and gasped, “Durga Prasad was my at the airport, in the plane, on arrival,
grandfather. He is dead! Hans Raj here throughout the wedding ceremony An Inculturated Indian Wedding
is the witness.” and in all those places on the The wedding was between a Catholic
Shocked, I heard myself say, “Maybe return journey. So I wasn’t formally groom and a Hindu bride and most of
he can sign as Durga Prasad,” “No, the introduced. I did manage to introduce the guests were Hindus. I was relieved
government registrar knows that Hans myself to a few of the men in the to see a group of Catholic Indo-Fijian
Raj will be the witness.” travelling party of fifteen. friends from the next parish who
So I crossed out Durga Prasad and There were two problems. Firstly, were invited to sing at the wedding.
wrote Hans Raj instead. That was the the groom and bride lived on different The wedding was celebrated under a
last, but not the only, hiccup! islands – a 40 minute flight. The decorated canopy in the middle of a
groom’s party wanted to get home that lean-to shed which was connected to
The Baraat [Groom’s party] evening. The plane would leave Suva at the house. In the middle of the canopy
This Indian wedding was to take place 8:30 a.m. and the last return flight was was a small low altar, my chair at one
in the home of the bride near the town at 4:30 p.m. end and a low settee at right angles for
of Savusavu in Vanua Levu, the second Secondly, Vanua Levu had just the bride and groom to sit in front of
main island of Fiji. I travelled with the suffered massive flooding with serious the altar.
4 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG
Left: Praveena and Aidan
Aidan and Praveena after the 7 steps
We began with the formal meeting It was a Catholic wedding of vows the bride’s parents support
of the two families at the entrance consisting of Bible readings, hymns, their daughter’s hands in their cupped
to the shed. I prayed for continued homily, the exchange of vows, hands with the groom’s hands below
respect, and unity between them. The intercessory prayers, and the nuptial theirs. As the bride’s brother pours
emcee called on different relatives from blessing. But the ceremony also water over the hands on to a brass plate
both sides to meet. They exchanged included a number of colorful, the parent’s tearfully withdraw their
a hug and garlanded one another. All traditional Indian rituals. This made supportive hands allowing the bride’s
were then seated. the wedding more meaningful, hands to fall into the groom’s hands.
The bridal party made a solemn especially to the Hindus present. I had made a point in my homily
entry from the house to the wedding of emphasizing the words of Genesis
canopy. On arrival she garlanded the Quenching the Fire of Patriarchalism 2:24 “…therefore that is why a man
groom and he, in turn, garlanded her One of the most touching rites is leaves his father and mother, is
and showed her to her seat on his right the kanya daan — the gift of the attached to his wife and with her
side. young girl. Just before the exchange becomes one flesh.” The young man
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 5
Decorated hands of the wedding couple Aidan and Praveena
Groom, bride and Fr. Frank seated under the
marriage canopy.
too must, at least psychologically, heads were covered with a cloak, the airport. I didn’t even have time to
leave his parents. the groom traced a red line through greet my friends who had graced the
After the exchange of vows the the bride’s hair and a red spot on occasion with their hymn singing. We
newlyweds, with clothes tied together her forehead, and hung the necklace made it just in time to board the plane.
by a ribbon, stood up to process slowly around her neck. Then, with the cloak Back at the groom’s house in
seven times around the altar. At each removed, the couple placed a ring Suva there were more photos as the
round they were to pour incense onto on each other’s finger. This Western newlyweds entered their home. Other
lighted charcoal in a container. I had symbol added the mutuality lacking in close relatives came and all sat around
suggested that instead of charcoal some the other symbols. in the sitting room drinking juice and
hot cinders could be brought from a fire Before the nuptial blessing I invited eating sweetmeats brought from the
elsewhere. The bride’s brother arrived the both sets of relatives to bless the bride’s home.
carrying a large iron bucket with flames couple by sprinkling them with rice One of the groom’s uncles, in
shooting up from hastily lit sticks. The mixed with flower petals (the original praising my Hindi, said that I must have
emcee, with quick presence of mind, gave confetti, I suppose). I breathed a sigh an Indian girlfriend. Another uncle
orders for the fire to be extinguished. I of relief then as the choir sang the final thanked me for the beautiful ceremony
handed him the holy water. He sprinkled hymn, and I called the witnesses to sign and said that when I visited the house
it carefully so there would still be some the civil certificate of marriage. That is again I should let him know so that he
hot embers but no flames. when I discovered that I had included could come around for a chat.
This was followed by the couple a dead man as a witness. I was happy that I had been able to
taking seven steps together after making share the Word of God and introduce
a commitment before each step to Togetherness Brings Acceptance the Church to the groom’s extended
protect their marriage together. They We had to rush our lunch. The young Hindu family. In the morning I was
then returned to the settee but this time people began a spontaneous dance. a stranger, but by the evening I was a
the bride sat on her groom’s left. Then it was time for the bride to leave friend. CM
I blessed sindur (red powder), a her family, relatives and friends amidst
necklace called a mangal sutra (thread many tears. We stepped through the Columban Fr. Frank Hoare lives and works
of joy) and two rings. While their rain into the minibuses and set off for in Fiji.
6 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG
CHANGE THE WORLD
With a Gift from Your Retirement Account
They only asked us to remember the poor—the very thing
I also was eager to do. Galatians 2:10
Good intentions are important, especially when it comes to giving. And a planned gift—a gift
you designate to start after your lifetime—can have long-term impact. If you are looking for an
easy way to support the Missionary Society of St. Columban, but can’t part with assets today,
consider designating us as the beneficiary of your retirement plan assets. Retirement plan assets
make a tax-wise gift to the Society. As a nonprofit organization, we are tax-exempt and eligible
to receive the full amount and bypass any federal taxes.
Your gifts helped Columban Fr. Michael Hoban run a summer program for children living in one
of Santiago, Chile’s poorest areas. With your assistance, the Columban missionaries provided
recreation, education and food for over 150 children during the summer.
Contact us to learn about the many different ways you can give to the Missionary Society of
St. Columban.
Missionary Society of St. Columban www.columban.org
1902 N. Calhoun St. toll-free: 877/299-1920
St. Columbans, NE 68056-2000 donorrelations@columban.org
8 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG
A Covid-19 Wedding
It had to be on June 6!
By Fr. John McEvoy
J onathan Kunau and Hilda
Vukikomoala had planned their
wedding a year in advance. Since
maintains that a wedding can take
place in any sacred space/place. He is
a great advocate of Laudato si’ and the
sacredness of the earth would not be
or big church. Jonathan’s mother, Essie,
who is a member of the parish choir
both of them were members of big directed those who were willing and
families, they wanted a big celebration opposed to a wedding taking place in dared to sing a few hymns.
of their two families and friends (in a home especially under such present When the register was signed
excess of 200 guests). They had booked circumstances. and the feasting and drinking got
a fancy hotel in Suva, Fiji, for June 6, underway, it was easy for the two
2020. families to meet, chat and compare
The sixth of June was an important notes as how the lockdown affected
date for this couple. When they them over the last months. Even the
were high school students, Jonathon priest had no trouble in getting to
at Marist Brothers and Hilda at St. know all present on the day!
Joseph’s Secondary School, they met There was yet another reason why
for the first time. It was at a Marist Hilda, in particular, wanted to have
Brothers school function on the June her wedding at home. The house was
6, 2012, the Feast day of St. Marcellin owned by her Uncle and Aunt and
(founder of the Marist Brothers). They in the garden of the house there were
were engaged on June 6, 2019, and The setting was beautiful, lovely three large coconut trees growing. It is
they would plan their wedding for and homey. The celebration of the custom in some parts of Fiji, that
June 6, 2020. when a child is born the umbilical cord
But in March 2020 Covid 19 struck the wedding Mass was as solemn is planted with a young coconut tree.
not only in Fiji but also throughout as any celebrated in a cathedral This was the case with Hilda. In this
the world. Here in Fiji, churches were house her parents placed her umbilical
closed for public worship, and only or big church. cord and later on those of her sister
twenty people were allowed to attend Tiresa and her brother Wayne with a
functions like funerals and weddings. young coconut tree when they were
But Jonathan and Hilda were And so it was – on June 6, 2020, born. She would see this day as a very
determined to go ahead with their fourteen members of their immediate special connection with nature and her
wedding on June 6, 2020. We families gathered and transformed growth. The Fijians believe that this
considered holding it in the church the house into a place of beauty for ceremony will prevent the child from
with the allotted number of people the occasion. Present were Jonathan’s becoming mischievous in life. From
allowed (20), but eventually it was parents and three of his grandparents, our photos it is obvious that Hilda has
decided it would take place in their Hilda’s sister, Aunt and Uncle and grown into a most gracious and lovely
home. This would mean they had two of her grandparents (fourteen in young lady!
only one place to decorate, i.e. their all including the photographer and In the end, it was obvious that
home – but still sticking to the allotted the priest)! None of Jonathan siblings Hilda and Jonathan’s wedding had
family numbers allowed to attend. were present which of course was a to be on June 6, pandemic or no
In recent times our Archbishop was source of disappointment. The setting pandemic! CM
not worried where couples had their was beautiful, lovely and homey. The
weddings, especially when so many celebration of the wedding Mass was as Columban Fr. John McEvoy lives and works
tourists come to Fiji to marry. He solemn as any celebrated in a cathedral in Fiji.
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 9
Can You See Me Smile?
Connecting While Wearing a Mask
By Kevin Sheerin
T
here is an old Chinese proverb
that says “a man without a
smiling face must never open
a shop.” This is pretty sound advice. If
you can’t smile and be friendly, then
it’s probably not worth your while
opening a shop. Pretty logical really.
It’s the golden rule of customer service
after all. We can all appreciate the value
of a smile. It costs nothing to give but
enriches those who receive it and is of
the earthly good to anyone until it is
given away. It is also one of the most
powerful means of communication we
have at our disposal, and we need no
college degree to master its art.
So why am I writing about smiling?
We can all appreciate the value
of a smile. It costs nothing to give
but enriches those who receive
it and is of the earthly good to
anyone until it is given away.
Well, probably because this is the one
thing I am beginning to miss most in
this new Covid world in which we are
now living. It seems that the common
social smile has become one of the
casualties in our determination to
halt the transmission of the virus. It
has become collateral damage as mask
wearing has taken over as the socially
accepted norm. We communicate so
much through our facial expressions,
but now those vital expressions are
hidden behind the masks we wear. As
missionaries, one of the first challenges
we encounter in arriving in a new
country is to learn the language in
order to make ourselves understood,
10 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORGwhich can be a long process. In the joyful and happy the baby was once
initial stages we rely mostly on the the mother made faces and smiled.
non-verbal communication that When the mother was asked to just
transcends all cultures – our facial look at the baby with no expression on
expressions, particularly our smiles. It her face, immediately the baby became
connects us to people. As the old saying uncomfortable and began to cry and
goes, a smile speaks a thousand words squirm.
and makes us feel at home, especially In the business world, when giving
when that smile is returned to us. presentations, it is not so much what
When I arrived here in Hong Kong, you say but how you say it, that is via
although English is widely spoken, the non-verbal facial expressions the
there are many who do not speak presenter uses. It can make or break a
English or prefer not to, particularly business deal.
among the homeless. As a person who It’s ironic that towards the end of
smiles a lot, I found that although I last year, here in Hong Kong when
could not connect to the local people the city was rocked with protests,
by means of language, a shared smile We communicate so much through laws were put forward to stop people
made all the difference. our facial expressions, but now from wearing masks. Now, with the
When you receive a smile, it does pandemic, the opposite has become
have a positive effect on you; it makes those vital expressions are hidden the norm, and everyone is now
you feel good and brightens your day. behind the masks we wear. required to wear masks. We know
We all know that when you are greeted how important wearing a mask is to
with a scowl it causes negative reactions the prevention of disease. No one is
within you and leaves you feeling more person. Everyone becomes the same, disputing that, but let us not use our
irritable. That is why a simple smile is so indistinguishable from each other. masks to disguise who we are and lose
important. You never know the impact We become like zombies. We pass that which makes us human.
it can have on a person and how it can each other in the street without even a We hope that, in time, this
change their day. glance. Why bother smiling if no one virus that arrived on the scene so
We are having to learn how to see can see you smile? I’ve asked myself unexpectedly will eventually lose its
the world through a mask, and it looks that question on numerous occasions virulence, allow us to ditch the masks
like it will be a regular aspect of our lives when I realize that despite smiling and get to see people smile again.
for the foreseeable future. When we first underneath my mask, no one can see it. Like everyone else, I pray that the
stated to wear masks here one of my There is a risk of becoming lockdowns and restrictions end, that
colleagues jokingly asked me “can you desensitized and robotic in our daily people can get back to work again, and
see me smile?” And to be honest, no, I interactions when we don’t see each socialize as they did before, but most of
couldn’t, although I knew that beneath other’s faces. The world is a sadder all I pray that we can see people smile
the mask she was. We now have to rely place when we can’t smile, and God once more.
on the expression behind the eyes, as it knows we need something to cheer us But even beneath the mask, let’s not
is the only part of the face that we now up, now more than ever. become like robots. Let’s continue to
see, unless they too are hidden behind Research confirms how vital facial smile even if no one sees. Smile, and
sunglasses. Some people have expressive expressions are in human interactions, the world smiles with you! CM
eyes, others, not so much. more so than verbal communication.
When we don’t see a person’s One experiment carried out between Columban lay missionary Kevin Sheerin
face, then sometimes we don’t see the a mother and her baby showed how lives and works in Hong Kong.
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 11The Call to Justice
How I Became a Human Rights Advocate
An interview with Fr. Cathal Gallagher by Fr. John Boles
F
r. Cathal Gallagher recalls the say that it was one of a whole series Yet, by Fr. Cathal’s own admission,
incident vividly. “It was in 1998. of life changes that have seen him this remarkable journey began in a very
I was working in a poor parish in moving from being a policeman in conventional fashion. Born in 1951 in
Lima. I got a call from a local clinic, run his native Ireland to a Columban Co. Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, Fr.
by the Mercy Sisters, saying someone missionary priest in Peru, where he Cathal grew up in what he remembers
was having a serious panic attack. I dedicates much of his time to caring as a “typical Irish Catholic family”
went over. The man there was in a real for people infected with – or affected of the time. “Rosary every night,
state. Kept saying, ‘My brother died last by – HIV/Aids. Confession every Saturday, a boarder
night’.” Fr. Cathal, recognizing him and at the local Catholic grammar.”
thinking he was all confused with grief, Being from Northern Ireland,
assured him, “No, he died last Friday. Being from Northern Ireland, justice issues were always important
I did the funeral.” “NO,” the man justice issues were always to Fr. Cathal. Maybe it because of this
insisted, “my OTHER brother. HE that he felt attracted to public service,
died last night!” important to Fr. Cathal. and at the age of 20 hopped over the
The man had lost his two brothers Maybe it because of this border to join the garda siochana (or,
in a week. Both had died of Aids. “the guards”), the police force in the
This was the pivotal moment that he felt attracted to Republic.
which Fr. Cathal reckons changed his public service. “I enjoyed my time in the guards
life. Or, it might be more accurate to immensely,” he remembers, in spite
José Luis distributing foodstuffs at a reception point. Victor of “Sí da Vida” at the controls of the center’s radio station
12 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORGof what he describes as a few “hairy Path”) group caused havoc from 1980
experiences.” It was the 1970s, the “Two main driving forces in to 1995. Finally, he saw the suffering
height of “The Troubles.” Yet, after just inflicted by the AIDS epidemic which
my life have been justice and was ravaging parts of his parish in the
six years, he took the radical decision
of quitting the police and entering the rights,” he affirms. “As a priest. 1990’s– epitomized by that heart-
seminary. Why priesthood? Why the rending tragedy of the death of the two
As a cop.”
Columbans? brothers.
“I’d had an inkling of ‘something He decided to act. Again. “Two
else’ calling me, ever since I’d been One step led to another, and he main driving forces in my life have
an altar boy back home,” Fr. Cathal joined the Columbans in 1979, did been justice and rights,” he affirms.
recalls. “Also, I’d always been his priestly formation in Ireland and “As a priest. As a cop.” So, he went
interested in mission. The Far East overseas in Chile, was ordained in twice to London, first becoming a
(the Columban society magazine) 1985 and appointed to Peru. psychotherapist and then gaining
gripped me.” For most people, Fr. Cathal had experience as coordinator of the multi-
Another factor was that the already run up enough vocation disciplinary team working to protect
Columbans’ main house in Ireland, changes to last a lifetime, but more was the health and promote the rights of
Dalgan Park, was only a stone’s yet to come. those with HIV.
throw from Navan, where Fr. Cathal “Accomanying suffering was the key,” Returning to Lima, Fr. Cathal
was based as a policeman. He used to he explains. He’d seen suffering caused by set up an organization to put into
pass the entrance to Dalgan nearly “The Troubles” in Ireland. He’d seen it practice all he had learned. He called
every day. “Finally, I decided to drive in Chile, the product of a brutal military it, “Sí da Vida” (roughly transated as,
in. Just turned up at the door. Asked dictatorship. He met it on arrival in “Yes to Life”). “Human dignity was
to speak to a priest. Took it from Peru, where the Maoist insurgency of the the focus, fighting the discrimination
there.” notorious Sendero Luminoso (“Shining that people living with HIV/Aids
José Luis distributing foodstuffs to recipient. Fr. Cathal with “Sí da Vida” personnel outside the organization’s center in Lima.
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 13experience in Peru.” His guiding light “We go to the people; we don’t wait
was the idea of “responsibility”, or Finally, he saw the suffering for them to come to us,” Fr. Cathal
rather, “response-ability” – helping inflicted by the AIDS epidemic affirms.
people respond to new situations in Today, Fr. Cathal divides his time
their lives, and giving them the tools which was ravaging parts between “Sí da Vida,” his role as
to do so. of his parish in the 1990’s– Director of the Columbans in South
He implemented the Positive Self- America, and the driving force behind
Management Program (developed at epitomized by that heart- an inter-agency network responding to
Stanford University in the U.S.). This rending tragedy of the death the effects of the Covid emergency in
promotes a “social model of health North Lima.
care.” People are taught how to manage of the two brothers. It seems as though he has been
their own chronic health conditions. ticking off all the “Ps”…from police to
They are also educated in prevention, priesthood to pstchotherapy to Peru.
with former participants going on to have benefited from the programs and To continue with the alliteration,
become instructors. a much wider population have received it has all been an extraordinary
Almost 20 years on, the results are prevention education through talks, “pilgrim’s progress” for Fr. Cathal
impressive. Supported by funding from literature and the center’s own radio Gallagher. CM
the Irish government, the Columbans station.
and private benefactors, “Sí da Vida” The staff liaise with government
now boasts a center and a dozen staff, agencies and the police. Volunteers Columban Fr. John Boles wrote this article
based on interviews with Fr. Cathal Gallagher.
including doctors, psychologists and go into places as varied as universities, Columban Fr. Gabriel Rojas and Columban
social workers. Some 400 instructors hospitals, prisons and discos. They seminarian Atonio Saula Seeto provided the
have been trained, around 4,500 people always concentrate on the poorer areas. photos. All are on mission in Peru.
Fr. Cathal in conversation with Victor, Director of “Sí Fr. Cathal back in the 1990’s celebrating an open air Mass in that poor parish
da Vida”, on the upper terrace of the center where the two brothers died of Aids in the same week.
14 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORGLIGHT FOR THE
WORLD
1% of Your Estate Continues the Mission Work
One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, and
He will repay him for his good deed. Proverbs 19:17
Good intentions are important, especially when it comes to giving. And a planned gift—a gift you
designate to start after your lifetime—can have long-term impact. By designating just 1% of your
estate as a gift to the Columban Fathers, you insure that the work you have supported during
your lifetime will continue.
Columban lay missionary Noh Hyein, better known as Anna (pronounced En-na), a teacher by
profession, lives and works in the Philippines. After getting to know the women in her parish,
and realizing how desperately poor they were, Anna, with the help of Columban benefactors,
launched a candle making livelihood project called “Light the Life.” The women make candles
and earn income for their families. The program also helps in the holistic development of the
women, making them value their own self-worth. The women in the program make candles that
light the homes of others, but they are lighting their own paths as well.
Contact us to learn about the many different ways you can give to the Missionary Society of
St. Columban.
Missionary Society of St. Columban www.columban.org
1902 N. Calhoun St. toll-free: 877/299-1920
St. Columbans, NE 68056-2000 donorrelations@columban.orgBirmingham Seagull
God’s Spirit
By Jung-Hae Roberta Kim
S
ince last August, I have been warm. I was standing around the wood recognized that I had reverted to being
volunteering at a community fire alongside the other volunteers, a baby again, feeling small, powerless,
garden here in Birmingham, chatting and trying to pick up their and vulnerable among the local people.
Britain, run by one of the ecology stories and memories from their But again, people are so marvelous and
organizations. Mainly young people conversation. Then suddenly it warmhearted to open their community
come here to volunteer to plant, brought me back to 2004 when I and welcome me.
network, and socialize every week. It joined the Columban lay missionary While I was following their
offers a good opportunity for them program and went to Japan without accents and the rhythm of their
to learn about plants, eco-friendly life having any knowledge of Japanese. sharing, I happened to catch a
style, ecological activities, all the while People there were so generous glimpse of a seagull. This brought
working in nature. despite my poor Japanese and always to mind another seagull I had
As the season has ended, the responded to me with a smile and loved seen during lockdown, flying low
community garden will only open to teach me Japanese and share their through a cloudy sky. One day
to the volunteers once a month to culture. I still remember an elderly when lockdown seemed to be going
look after the garden and prepare for parishioner who had difficulty with his on forever, I went out for a walk
the coming spring. We had a small listening was passionate to teach me as usual, troubled with feelings of
gathering in the garden to celebrate how to pronounce Azalea in Japanese. frustration, anxiety, awkwardness
the harvest and give gratitude for I was just like a baby in that unknown and loneliness. As I walked, I looked
each other’s support. It took place country. Those memories came back up to the gray sky above and saw a
during a typical, windy, cloudy day to me once more as I was immersing seagull hovering, wings outstretched,
which really made us seek something myself into Birmingham in 2020. And I silently riding the air, almost
16 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORGmotionless against the dark sky. We’re still in the midst of an abundant nature is surrounding us in
Then suddenly, she soared upwards, unprecedented pandemic, and Britain Birmingham.
higher and higher, and I heard a is one of the most seriously affected I am grateful for the opportunity
thought, “Be Still and know that I countries. Many people have lost loved of working in nature to build a bridge
am God.” She seemed to be saying to ones, are missing families and hugs, between the lifegiving force of nature
me to stay calm and just be present, and are living in uncertainty. Many and the people. I admire how God is
and when God’s time comes I will be of us are overwhelmed with feelings missioning and molding me while I am
led to where I should be. of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. on His mission for His people. I also
Whenever I venture into nature However, thankfully, we still have appreciate the Columban Missionary
it always opens its arms to embrace nature around us, sharing its life with Society for their prophetic decision
me, console me and teach me valuable us, giving us spaces to rest and console in 1990 to open its doors to help and
lessons. The seagull showed me that our wounded souls. encourage the laity to live out their lay
when the wind is so harsh that I feel From time to time when I hear mission vocation. Moreover, I deeply
small and nervous, I should try not to the cry of a seagull, I remember that appreciate the Columban benefactors
struggle to find a way out but rather seagull that hovered above me and say for their prayers and generous support
just keep being present there with all to myself, “don’t worry, just be yourself to Columban mission. May all the
my heart and do what I am doing until and do what you are doing.” And I people’s good will bring peace among
the wind brings me to the right place share the seagull’s amazing story when all God’s creatures. CM
where I should be. And I believe that it I meet someone else who is weathering
must be the time when God’s Spirit is a harsh storm in their own life. I am Columban lay missionary Jung-Hae Roberta
working in my challenging time. grateful that seagulls are flying and Kim lives and works in Birmingham, Britain.
Ongoing Response to God’s Love
Mission in Korea
By Sr. Margaret Moran
“Each of you should use whatever rebuild again. The people were also sick apostolate on July 5, 1955, the Feast
gift you have received to serve others, following the deprivations of war. of St. Andrew Kim, the first Korean
as faithful stewards of God’s grace in In addition, there was a great dearth priest to be martyred. In November
its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10 of medical facilities, personnel and 1955, the city of Chuncheon, close to
Korea was the fourth country to expertise. The two bishops realized that the 38th parallel which divides North
open its doors to the Missionary Sisters good health was an important step in Korea from South Korea, welcomed
of Saint Columban. The call of God motivating people to rebuild their lives two Sisters (a doctor and a nurse) who
to engage in mission in Korea came and rebuild the nation. They petitioned started home visitation of the sick and
through the invitation of Archbishop the Superior General of the Missionary a makeshift clinic in two rooms. The
Henry in Chollado and Bishop Quinlan Sisters of Saint Columban in Ireland to news of the arrival of the Sisters spread
in Gangwondo, both members of the send some Sisters to Korea to minister like wildfire.
Missionary Society of Saint Columban. to the sick and the poor and to help Between 1955 and 2020, the
As in any post-war country, there with the health and well-being of the Columban Sisters conducted
was devastation at every turn of the people. outpatient day clinics. Mobile clinics
road in Korea in the wake of the 1950- Seven Sisters were assigned to went to outlying villages in remote and
53 war. Having lost everything, the the coastal town of Mokpo to run a doctorless areas, to leper colonies, and
people had to start from scratch to hospital or day clinic. They began their to the islands. They were also involved
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 17provided hospice care to enable the
terminally ill to spend their remaining
days with dignity and surrounded
by loved ones. Other involvements
included vocations promotion,
organic farming and a weaving and
knitting project in Hallim on Cheju
Isand.
From 1970 through the 80s and
later there was a noticeable decline in
the numbers of vocation candidates in
most Western countries and this also
affected the Columban Sisters.
Thankfully, God showed us that
when one door closes, another may
open to us. From that time forward,
young Korean women showed their
desire to engage in God’s mission as
members of the Missionary Sisters
of Saint Columban. They too
responded to God’s call to dedicate
their lives to carrying on the same
works of compassion and mercy for
others.
Between 1970 and 2020, 33
young Korean women entered the
Missionary Sisters of Saint Columban
and, after appropriate training and
preparation, were sent out on mission
to various areas of need around the
world.
Over the last of 50 years, they
have been sent to many countries
around the world: Peru and Chile
in South America, China, Hong
Kong, Myanmar, Pakistan and the
in a nursing school, a midwifery residents, including both Alzheimer’s Philippines in Asia, and to the United
school, mother and childcare, natural and stroke patients. Myongdo Kingdom, Ireland and the United
family planning, public health, general Community of Life is a home, States in the West. Their respective
hospital care as well as in the training workshop, and education center assignments and experiences are
of intern doctors and residents to catering to people with special needs. truly a great blessing from God for
become specialists. Our Lady’s Home in Mokpo was themselves and for the people they
The Sisters were also involved in founded to assist single mothers who have been sent to. We give thanks for
special care and the rehabilitation of all had found themselves in difficulties for this ongoing response to God’s love
sorts of accident victims, tuberculosis various reasons. and compassion and ask that it may
patients and children and people with In the area of justice and peace, continue. CM
disabilities. In several areas the Sisters the Sisters campaigned for the human
were involved in the care of the elderly. rights of undocumented migrants and Columban Sr. Margaret Moran has been
St. Columban’s Home in the victims of prostitution in danger working and living in Korea for the past 43
Chuncheon caters for about 80 of contracting HIV/AIDS. They also years.
18 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORGMission During
COVID-19
An Apocalyptic Time
By Sainana Tamatawale
T
he year 2020 was one of the
most difficult and stressful
years in the history of the last
hundred years of the world and the Worship in COVID times
church!
In Christmas 2019, I already had
my plans and schedule set for 2020.
The excitement, joy and happiness of
the New Year suddenly became sad,
stressful and even frightening as the
Covid-19 pandemic spread throughout those in need. I followed all the Covid and serve the vulnerable during this
the world. It reached the U.S./Mexico protocols and regulations and always pandemic, I learned and have learnt
border in March 2020, and our 2020 prayed before I went out, asking for that we don’t only serve the poor. We
plans were cancelled or postponed. It Gods protection from being infected serve Christ in the poor, because we
was difficult to accept and adjust to by the virus and other accidents and see in the suffering poor the suffering
the new forms, new ways, and new to give me the courage, strength, Christ and the suffering poor see in us
realties in order to survive: cancellation patience and passion to serve the as the hopeful Christ. By sharing love
of Mass and sacraments, lockdowns, most vulnerable. I experienced God’s with the poor and the migrants we are
no classes, unemployment, travel presence, love, and compassion during actually evangelizing to the poor and
restrictions, government and health this Covid -19 year because I didn’t bearing witness to them.
department regulations and protocols come down with the virus after being I am so grateful to all the
that needed to be followed. in contact with people that were benefactors for your prayers and
All these new norms, protocols positive. I had the Covid test four financial support which helps us
and lockdowns made many people feel times and was negative for each. I on the mission field, especially the
afraid, hopeless, frightened, stressed thanked God for His protection Columban Border Mission team
out, and depressed. Covid-19 caused over me. here in Anapra, Mexico, and El Paso,
people to stay home; no school, no It was the most challenging and Texas. Your generosity and love help
work, limitations on everything. stressful year I have ever experienced in me, Fr. Bill, and several very active
I found myself on the outskirts many years as a long-term Columban parishioners who collaborate with us
of Ciudad Juarez, with my fellow Lay missionary. By the grace of in doing God’s mission work to serve
Columban, Father Bill Morton, in a God and in faith, hope and charity the poor, the hungry and the migrant.
poor area called Rancho Anapra. As I survived the year 2020. After an You benefactors are part of our team in
days of lockdowns passed, the poor evening Mass one day, Fr. Bill and I doing God’s mission by your support
became poorer and the suffering more shared about the many struggles in and prayers. Thank you all so much for
intense. our community, the many deaths, your love, care and support. I pray that
In Rancho Anapra, we continued violence, poverty and uncertainty. I God will shower His blessings on you
to serve the poor and the migrants, the said I felt we are weighed down with and your families. CM
most vulnerable in our community. such suffering and he told me, “yes,
The missionary spirit in me would we are in an apocalyptic time.” I
Columban lay missionary Sainiana
not let me to stay home on lockdown reflected on our sharing that evening. Tamatawale lives and works in Ciudad
but pushed me to go out to serve In taking the risk to be courageous Juarez, Mexico.
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 19Five Hundred Years
appreciation of the local languages,
culture and customs. They defended
the native populations against abuses
of Christianity in the
by Spanish colonists. A weakness in
the evangelization process was the slow
development of local diocesan clergy.
Attempts in this direction initially
Philippines failed due to weak formation programs.
Adequate seminary training only began
in the nineteenth century.
Columban Involvement Over time, hostility developed
against the Spanish colonizers. Abuses
By Fr. John Comiskey gave rise to pocket revolts led by native
leaders. By their exploitation of people,
the Spaniards succeeded in uniting
the disparate native peoples against
their regime. Gradually, a Philippine
nationalism began to arise. The Church
was often seen as siding with Spanish
colonizers. However, as the spirit of
revolution grew, Filipino priests joined
the cause, and some became martyrs
for freedom.
Spanish dominion did not cease
due to local fighting but also because
of American intervention during
the Spanish-American war. Dewey’s
defeat of the armada effectively ended
Madrid’s rule and began American
control. What is amazing is that
despite the end of Spanish rule,
Christianity survived. The friars had
succeeded by their dedication to
implanting the faith in the hearts of
T
he Catholic faith came first developed a system of co-opting local the people and by their selfless service
to the Philippines as part of community leaders to support their of caring for their flocks in times of
Spain’s colonial expansion rule. As a result, the Spanish did not difficulty.
with Magellan’s circumnavigating the need a very strong military presence However, with the American
globe. As in that and later journeys to keep control. Here too they took occupation many Spanish priests
the friars accompanied the soldiers advantage of the Church’s presence as returned to Spain. Parishes were left
and sailors. The Philippines was not a an aid in their rule. vacant. In addition, a breach occurred
unified nation but rather a collection The interest of the Spanish within the Church. Fr. Gregorio
of various indigenous communities colonizers was mainly in exploiting Aglipay split from Rome and founded
divided by geography, language, natural resources and trade. The the Philippine Independent Church
religious belief and culture. Some missionaries’ concern centered on the which grew popular in some provinces.
native groups welcomed the Spanish spread of the faith and the salvation Later the Iglesia Ni Christo developed.
as a defense against Muslim raids from of souls. In a relatively short time With the Americans came Protestant
Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago or they were preaching the Gospel in missionaries. Muslim hostility to
as allies in struggles with other more many different areas of the island Christianity continued to be evident
local enemies. The Spanish authorities chain. Some missionaries showed an in the south. The Church was in a
20 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORGweakened state. Such was the situation their ministry in Zambales northwest anti-tuberculosis campaigns helped
when Columban missionaries arrived of Manila and in Negros Occidental limit that dreaded scourge. Columban
in 1929. in the Central Visayas region. New missionaries support housing projects
Originally the interest of the emphasis arose for better training for the poor and for victims of natural
Columbans coming to the Philippines for Columban members in language disasters. Columban missionaries work
was for rest and rehabilitation of and culture. Columban missionaries with tribal people develop economic
priests who had been serving in became involved in family life opportunities and to struggle against
China. Their initial foothold was programs such as Marriage Encounter. mining and other interests from taking
at Nuestra Señora de los Remedios Dealing with environmental issues away their lands. Ministry to troubled
Parish in Malate, Manila. From became a major theme in the overall youth also came within the Columban
there they became involved in direct Columban approach to ministry. purview.
ministry at parishes east of Manila In all the places where they served Columban missionaries have spent
in Rizal Province and to the North the central task was building the time and talent in promoting Muslim-
in Pangasinan Province. They also church through developing local lay Christian dialog. This has broken
expanded to work south of Manila leadership. Student Catholic Action down misunderstanding and mistrust.
to the town of Silang in Cavite provided leadership training on the Working together in common projects
Province. In the latter part of the high school and university levels. for the good of the community brings
1930’s ministry expanded to include Emphasis was given to developing about respect and affirmation of our
parts of Mindanao in the south of lay leaders in the communities that common humanity. This is not merely
the country. The Columban presence made up the individual parishes. a dialog about beliefs but rather a
helped secure and expand the faith The approaches to doing this varied dialog of life.
life of the communities they served. according to the situation and needs of The coming of martial law under
The 1930s also saw the beginning of each area. the Marcos regime gave rise to human
Columban involvement in student Columbans helped to encourage rights violations, terror and killings.
ministry with the founding of Student vocations to the diocesan priesthood. Columban missionaries have fought
Catholic Action by Columban Fr. They helped fund and staff priest for true justice and even faced being
E.J. McCarthy. The Columban Sisters formation programs. They also jailed because of their defending their
arrived in 1939. supported Fil Mission, the missionary people against the abuses.
On the political front the realization arm of the Filipino Church. The Over time the number of diocesan
gradually grew that the American later acceptance of Filipino members priests increased, and Columban
occupation of the Philippines was into the Missionary Society of St. missionaries were able to hand over
more costly than valuable. Support Columban continues to invigorate parishes, campus ministries, and
grew for granting independence. A mission in other lands and in the schools. The Columban Sisters
Commonwealth Constitution leading Philippines. continue their service in education,
to eventual independence gained Compassion and service to the health care and work with the poor.
approval in 1935. Unfortunately, World poor and outsider has been an earmark Columban lay missionaries bring
War II delayed full freedom of the of Columban ministry and mission. their own special talents to ministry.
Philippines. Attention to the needs of the poor They develop close bonds with the
The Japanese invasion challenged came through development projects people they serve. While the number
church life and brought persecution. and direct aid. The establishment of of Columban priests have diminished
Columban missionaries remained schools particularly on the high school due to age and taking on new missions
faithful to serving their flocks. Some and college levels helped to equip in other lands, Columban missionaries
were able to flee with their people into many to rise out of poverty. Working continue to serve with dedication
the hills. Others faced imprisonment. with co-operatives and micro- particularly for those who have less
Columban Fr. Francis Vernon Douglas lending programs like the Grameen in life. CM
and the Malate martyrs were put to Bank aided the lives of their people.
death. Programs for the disabled helped
After many years on mission in the
After the war in the early 1950s many families in meeting the needs Philippines, Columban Fr. John Comiskey now
the Columban missionaries extended of their special children. Similarly, lives and works in St. Columbans, Nebraska.
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 21Faith + Love = Unity
Inclusive Faith
By Elbert Balbastro
T
he Philippines is an and other Church-related activities, (banquet or party) after the Mass.
archipelagic country where laughter and fun take place. Reflecting Some would request a special Mass for
diversity in culture, language, on my experience, I realized that, some relatives who died, and others
tradition, and customs is visibly felt on an exclusive level belonging to would ask for a house blessing. Our
and seen. Since the country is divided a certain island in the Philippines rich faith is our identity and hallmark
into almost 7, 600 islands, sometimes is part of my identity, but from an that we bring as Filipinos wherever
our being diverse and apart from each inclusive point of view, most of the we go. We always put our faith in the
other could create misunderstanding, islands in the Philippines share that center whereby during our Christmas
form a regionalism perspective, and same Christian faith with me. I saw party the Eucharist takes place first
disunity. Some would brag that their and experienced that when Filipinos before anything else. Through our
culture is better than others. However, work abroad unity despite diversity faith, we find comfort, care, joy, and
as I journeyed here and abroad, I happens. In the migrant center where I support from one another.
observed that wherever I go, one of was volunteering, we helped Filipinos This year 2021 is significant for
the unifying factors that could make because they are our fellow men and us Filipinos as the whole country is
Filipinos one is through our faith and women; their religion didn’t matter. celebrating 500 years of Christianity in
love. The Church is very instrumental It appears to me that our faith is the Philippines. This event is another
in bringing us together as one despite much deeper, and it prevails over our sign of unity where every parish and
our diversity and differences. differences even though we are living diocese in the whole archipelago is
When I was working in South in an archipelagic country. Our faith preparing for this momentous event. I
Korea, the Catholic Church in which transforms in love brings us believe that one of the greatest legacies
Hyehwa dong is the most popular together as one Filipino community. of early missionaries is our faith. That
Church where every Sunday Filipinos In Pakistan, I also saw and faith that they passed on to us goes lives
from every part of the country experienced a flourishing Filipino in our hearts resulting in love for God
gathered together to celebrate the community whereby because of and love for others. Our faith becomes
Holy Eucharist. Also, in most of faith, Filipinos unite. Mostly, our inclusive extending to others, setting
the industrial cities where Filipinos Masses there were held at the houses aside our differences, and respecting and
are working, the migrant centers or apartments of Filipinas married celebrating our diversities. CM
are where the Holy Sacrifice of the to local fellows. Filipinos who have
Mass is also celebrated. Then, every birthdays for a certain month will Columban seminarian Elbert Balbastro
time we gather for a Christmas party contribute for us to have a salo salo provided this reflection.
22 August/September 2021 WWW.COLUMBAN.ORGThe Cry of the Poor
A
s I write this, I just got off the phone with numbers of people in need of meals, clothing, showers,
Father Bill Morton. You remember Father Bill. medication, a night or two of shelter and help traveling
He is the Columban priest whose parish in to relatives elsewhere across the United States. Along
Juarez, Mexico, abuts the U.S. border just west of with those things, a listening ear, a few gracious words
El Paso. in Spanish, a little kindness, a smile are all part of what
This morning the problems at the border were the shelters try to deliver. Sometimes a pair of shoelaces
featured on the national news, so I thought I would can be a precious gift. Of course, with 200 to 300 new
call Fr. Bill and find out what was happening from people arriving at just one shelter on just one day, even
his vantage point. When I called he happened to be simple kindness can become a daunting challenge.
in conversation with a woman who is about to apply I suppose many of the people who arrived at Ellis
for an emergency visa so she can attend her brother’s Island in New York a century or more ago needed help
funeral in Oklahoma. Family ties are strong, and they making their way to the ferries that would take them to
need to be attended to in times of grief. But so often the trains that would take them west. Now, someone
the government rules and regulations prevent a nimble has to help even the lucky ones make phone calls to
response. I hope she can travel. relatives, get to the bus station, purchase the tickets to
When I think of the situation at the border, what the right place.
comes to mind is the old French proverb, “The more For a long time, El Paso del Norte has been a place
things change, the more they remain the same.” So of passage. Volunteers from around the country are
much has changed since the book of Leviticus was joining hands with local people to ease the passage to
written. The place and the people are different, the north.
but the problem remains the same. “When an alien
resides with you in your land, do not molest him.
You shall treat the alien who resides with you no
differently than the natives born among you; have I suppose many of the people
the same love for him as
for yourself, for you too
who arrived at Ellis Island in New
were once aliens in the land York a century or more ago
of Egypt. I am the Lord.”
(Leviticus 19:34) needed help making their way to
As a Columban, I have been
visiting the southern border the ferries that would take them
off and on for more than 20
to the trains that would take
From the Director them west.
By Fr. John Burger
years. It is a dramatic place where the superpower of the In many of our parish liturgies we sing the words,
United States encounters mothers, fathers, and children “The Lord hears the cry of the poor.” We do want Him
the struggling nations of El Salvador, Guatemala and to hear us when we call to Him. I think I will meditate
Honduras. There is friction, incomprehension and even on, Proverbs 21: 13. “He who shuts his ear to the cry of
desperation at the legal crossing places and even more of the poor will himself also call and not be heard.”
it at illegal places.
Perhaps one type of place where the friction can be
loosened is a shelter. Places like Annunciation House
or Casa Nazareth are working once again with big
WWW.COLUMBAN.ORG August/September 2021 23Columban Fathers NON PROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
1902 n. Calhoun st. COLUMBAN
st. Columbans, ne 68056-2000 FATHERS
Address Service Requested
Transform the Lives
“Lord, you know everything,
of Others…Enrich the
You know I love you…
World…Give Hope
then feed my lambs.”
Columban Mission magazine is
published eight times each year and — John 21:17
tells the stories of our missionaries and
the people they are called to serve.
Columban missionaries live in solidarity Perhaps you are someone whose
with their people and, together, they love of God is leading you to want
move forward to improve their social, to serve His hungry people. We
economic and spiritual lives, always are waiting to listen to your story
with Our Savior as their guide and their and answer your questions about
eyes on God’s Kingdom. mission life.
For a $15 donation or more, you or
a friend or loved one can share in
our baptismal call to mission and
the Columban Fathers’ mission work We invite you to join this new generation by becoming
around the world through Columban a Columban Father or Columban Sister.
Mission magazine.
If you are interested in becoming a
To begin receiving your Columban If you are interested in the missionary Columban Sister, write or call…
Mission magazine or to provide a gift priesthood, write or call… Sr. Carmen Maldonado
to a loved one, simply visit our website Fr. Bill Morton National Vocation Director
at www.columban.org, call our toll-free National Vocation Director Columban Sisters
number 877/299-1920 or write to us at: Columban Fathers 2546 Lake Road
St. Columbans, NE 68056 Silver Creek, NY 14136
Missionary Society 877/299-1920 716/934-4515
of St. Columban Email: vocations@columban.org Email: sscusvocations@yahoo.com
1902 N. Calhoun St. Website: www.columban.org Websites: www.columbansisters.org
St. Columbans, NE www.columbansistersusa.com
68056-2000
Japan + Korea + Peru + Hong Kong + Philippines + Pakistan + Chile + Fiji + Taiwan + North AmericaYou can also read
