Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
Feature Article – May 2012
New Congregational Leadership Team
We are delighted to announce the election of a new Congregational Leadership Team to serve the Union of
Presentation Sisters for the next years. Sr. Mary Deane has been selected as Leader of the Congregation and
her fellow animators on the Team are Sisters Anne O' Leary, Frances Murphy, Grace Chako and Julie
Watson. Their election follows a prayerful process of discernment at phase III of the Gathering and
consultation with the wider membership of the congregation worldwide.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Update from Sr. Salome Joseph
Our correspondent from the gathering today is Salome Joseph. She writes:
The day began with a twenty minute stillness. At 9 a.m. we gathered in the Sacred Space and invoked the
Holy Spirit. This was followed by the reading “The Woman at the Well” from John’s gospel. We walked to
the fountain led by Dorothy Fernandez, carrying a pitcher of water in which we dipped our hands and blessed
ourselves with the water of life. Then we returned to the Sacred Space and were led in dance to the tune of
“Let the Waters Flow from every corner of the Universe”.
Brenda Peddigrew facilitated the election process. Sr Nuala Motley, being the senior most by profession
presided over the elections. Sr Mary Deane was declared elected as Congregational Leader followed by the
election of Grace Chacko and Anne O’Leary, the two team members. There was a great spirit of rejoicing
and celebrations when the names were announced and each Sister was congratulated by the delegates
present. The last session of the afternoon was given to dealing with the remaining proposals.
On the 31st May Mass was celebrated by an SMA priest who told the gathering that the first SMA was
ordained in the Ursuline chapel in Cork about 200 years ago. The liturgy committee thanked the SMA
community for their generosity in celebrating the Eucharist for us over the four weeks. At 9 a.m. as usual we
gathered in the Sacred Space for morning prayer. The theme being air, centered on our own breath. The
reading was on Elijah at the mouth of the cave followed by a time of stillness.
Then we moved into the election of the last two delegates and Assistant Congregational Leader. Sr Grace
Chacko was elected as the Congregational Assistant Leader and Julie Watson and Frances Murphy as team
members.
In the afternoon we had a thank you ritual and blessing for the outgoing team and the welcoming ritual and
blessing for the incoming team. At 8pm we gathered again for a celebration in honour of both outgoing and
incoming teams.
Presentation News
Rising to the Challenge to Change
Challenge to Change is a Development Education project running in Presentation Primary and Post-Primary
schools.
From tiny acorns ...
Page 1 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
From a very small beginning nine years ago, the Challenge to Change Project has continued to expand. Each
September Presentation Primary and Post-Primary schools are invited to participate in this Development
Education Project. Students work, from September to June, on their chosen topic focusing on issues of
justice, human rights, sustainability and interculturalism. They seek to raise awareness and bring about a
greater understanding of their chosen issue. Students are empowered to explore ways in which their local
actions can impinge for the better on global issues.
Challenge to Change Seminar
From early morning on Thursday, 10 May 2012, the Springhill Court Hotel, Kilkenny, came alive with
energy, enthusiasm, passion and creativity as students from 27 Primary and Post-Primary schools gathered to
celebrate what they had learned from participating in the annual Challenge to Change Project. Having set up
their projects, the students busied themselves explaining what they had discovered, engaging with their
audience, sharing theeir learning, answering questions, surprising visitors with intriguing puzzles and
questionnaires and learning from the work of other students.
Each participating school was invited to send eight student representatives to the Seminar. In addition to
presenting their project throughout the day, these students had the opportunity to participate in one of five
simultaneous workshops focused on development education issues. Shane O’Connor from Trocaire
facilitated a workshop entitled C2C Our Climate while Lizzy Noone from Concern facilitated a workshop
on Education and Child Labour. Eamon Cagney delivered a Drumming workshop while Fergal O’Connor
guided students in their Dreams for a Better World. Patsy Toland, Self-Help Africa, encouraged his
audience to engage with the topic Are You Equal?
An indication of the complexity of the topics chosen can be gleaned from the table below:
School
Chosen Topic
Presentation Primary George's Hill
Human Rights for You, Me, Everybody
Presentation Primary Carrick-on-Suir
Our Footprints, Our World
Presentation Secondary Clonmel
Climate Change and its Effects on Poverty in East Afric
Scoil Bhride Naofa Kildare
Barbie versus Ken
Scoil Chrios Ri Portlaoise
The Slums of India - a Moral Issue
Scoil Mhuire Clondalkin
Scoil Mhuire in Bloom
Presentation Secondary Warrenmount
All Work No Play! Becoming the Person You Are Not!
Scoil Mhuire Portlaoise
Presentation De La Salle
Bagenalstown
Sustainability in our Community
Presentation Primary Clonmel
Sow and Grow!
Colaiste Bride Secondary Clondalkin
Life is Precious, so are Girls
Scoil Áine Clondalkin
Dumping our Waste on Others
Sacred Heart Primary Portlaoise
Feast or Famine?
Presentation Secondary Mitchelstown
Less Education leads to More Exploitation
Holy Trinity N.S. Fethard
Switch on the Lights to Human Rights
Presentation Secondary Thurles
Indian Outreach Project
St. Joseph's Primary Mountmellick
The River of Life
St. Joseph's College Lucan
Many Cultures, One World
Scoil Mhuire Thurles
Knit a Square for Africa
Presentation Secondary Kilkenny
Prejudice and Inequality in Education
Presentation Primary Portarlington
When You Save Energy, You Save the World
Presentation Secondary Ballingarry
Presentation Primary Waterford
Indian Immersion Project
Near and Far - Presentation Schools at Home and
Abroad
Presentation Primary Maynooth
Famine - Hunger, Then and Now!
Fair Trade, Fair School, Fair Life
Page 2 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Presentation Primary Kilkenny
Presentation Senior Primary
Mullingar
Energy
Our Lady's College Drogheda
Poverty in Ireland
Print Version
Homelessness: at Home and Abroad
Comments from the students who attended the Seminar
In response to the question “What can you do as a result of what you have heard today?” students
replied:











I can now debate and prove a point that I believe in.
I will start saving more energy.
Buy Fairtrade.
I learned how to make the world a better place.
Raise awareness, spread what we have learned to people in our school.
I will write a piece or do a bit of artwork for the Self-Help Africa book.
Look deeper into the new topics I discovered like gender equality.
Look deeper into the roots of situations and not just glance at the top problem.
I can put what I learned today to good use and try to bring it into my everyday life.
Try to promote human rights as much as possible.
Be careful because the smallest things we do can hurt other countries.
When asked what they liked most about the seminar, students said:
"I liked when people asked me questions and I was able to tell them about my project."
"Learning about the different moral issues in our world and how we can work together to change them."
"Raising awareness, seeing other students' projects and everything was so much fun!"
"The workshops were fantastic. The whole experience was enlightening. Everyone was extremely friendly
and informative. The variety of projects and schools were inspirational."
"The enthusiasm of the pupils, especially at primary level." "I loved talking to people and telling them all
about our work on human rights."
It is heartening to see how enthusiastic students, teachers and parents are as they try to make our world a
better place for all and as Nano did in her day, shine a light into the darkness. A special word of thanks to our
Principals, our teachers and our students who continue to champion such worthy causes, asking the hard
questions and seeking answers. Finally, a word of thanks to our funders – Irish Aid, Department of Foreign
Affairs and Trade, and Presentation Sisters. As in previous years the full story of Challenge to Change
2011-2012 will be available when the Challenge to Change book is published in the autumn.
If you need any further information or you wish to become involved in Challenge to Change 2012-2013
please feel free to email preseduc@eircom.net
Ruth Patterson's Talk
Ruth Patterson's talk to the Open Day at the Congregational Gathering has been added to the Resources
section of our website.
It can be accessed by clicking on the Resources Tab on the menu bar across the top of the page of
Presentation Sisters Union website
This had been added earlier attached to a news item but we hear some people have experienced difficulty in
locating it, so we have added it to the Resources section as well. Enjoy!
Page 3 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
Emmaus Journey and Sharing of Stories
The two units of Zambia and Zimbabwe came together with mixed feelings of expectations, hope, doubts
and anxiety for the joint assembly from 15-19 April at ZAS (Zambian Association of Sisters) centre,
Kallundu, Lusaka.
The opening ritual was organised by our Sisters from Kaoma. Sisters Vianney Moloney, Inez Fernandez,
Mbololwa Ilinanga and Ireen Mate walked in procession into the hall with two pots of water on their heads
representing the life and mission in Zambia and Zimbabwe. As they placed the pots in the sacred space Sr.
Nora Broderick shared how the sisters from India began the mission in Zimbabwe and the journey of our
Sisters till today. At the end of the sharing she poured the water from the pot written Zimbabwe into the
empty pot placed in the middle, which symbolised the ‘One Africa’ mission. From the Zambian side Sr. Inez
shared the history of the Presentation presence begun by the Irish, English and Indian Unit and later on
coming together as the Zambian Vice Province and the journey to the present day. Sr. Catherine Campion
was invited to pour the water from the second pot written Zambia into the pot in the middle. The pot
symbolising ‘One Africa’ was then passed around with great reverence and devotion. It was a sacred moment
in our life and mission together.
Our four days together were facilitated so gently by Srs. Veronica Brand and Lontia Siakalambwe. We were
enabled to share our hopes and dreams in relation to our life and mission in today’s context. We were
encouraged to listen in silence to our own selves and to one another, so as to discern our call together as One
Unit in the African context. Every morning Sr. Sue McGregor greeted us with her cartoon drawings
reminding us of what had taken place the previous day. It was indeed a wonderful moment and great joy for
all of us, as we said ‘YES’ with open hearts to come together as a Unit under one leadership team.
Nano’s vision of “If I could be of service in saving souls in any part of the globe, I would willingly do all
in my power” and “Love one another as you have hither to done” became a reality in the African soil.
[Submitted by Sr. Annmary Andrews]
One Good Idea from Generation Green
One Good Idea from Generation Green at Presentation Secondary School, Thurles, was all it took to win
SEAI national competition. The students now go forward to represent Ireland in U4Energy Awards.
Congratulations to all involved!
Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s (SEAI) held a nationwide search for ONE GOOD IDEA to tackle
climate change and promote energy efficiency.
Students from Presentation Secondary School, Thurles, are the overall winners of the Sustainable Energy
Authority of Ireland’s (SEAI) search for One Good Idea with their Generation Green entry encouraging the
use of cleaner, greener energy. The students showcased their work among twenty competing schools chosen
from around the country to exhibit at the prestigious national final which took place om Thursday May 3rd,
in Dublin Castle.
The students from Presentation Secondary School, Thurles, not only get the coveted title of national winners
of the One Good Idea competition, but they will now go forward to represent Ireland in the U4Energy
Awards. U4energy is the first pan-European competition on energy education organised by the European
Commission.
The One Good Idea project is organised by SEAI and supported by the Better Energy programme and the
Department of Environment, Community and Local Government. The aim of the project is to increase
students’ understanding of energy efficiency and climate change by encouraging them to take individual and
collective responsibility for tackling these important issues and to highlight how one good idea can make a
big difference to our pockets, ourselves and our planet. Minister of State at the Department of
Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Fergus O’Dowd TD, presented the winning students with
fantastic prizes including €1,000 for their school, iPod Touches and iTunes vouchers.
Minister O’Dowd said “The One Good Idea competition looks for innovative ways to promote energy
Page 4 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
efficiency and tackle climate change, and from looking at the projects today Ireland has some truly creative
and talented students in our midst. This is the first year the winner of One Good Idea will be representing
Ireland on the European stage and I’d like to wish Presentation Secondary School, Thurles every success in
the U4EnergyAwards.”
Brian Motherway of SEAI said: “What is really inspiring about the quality of One Good Idea projects is
the imagination and creativity. These students are helping to raise awareness of energy and climate change
issues in clever and innovative ways. All it takes is one good idea to have a lasting impact. ”
A First for India
Jubilee bells rang out joyfully on 21 April 2012 as Sr. Bonaventure became the first Presentation Sister in the
Indian Unit to celebrate her Pearl Jubilee.
Jubilee Bells rang out loud and clear on 21st April 2012 in Presentation Convent, Delhi 6 as we sang
Celebrate, Celebrate, Come Let’s celebrate and Sing as it was the Pearl Jubilee of our dear Sr. Bonaventure.
It was a day of great rejoicing for her and for us as she is the first sister in the Indian Unit to have the
privilege to celebrate her Pearl Jubilee. What a glorious event in her life and all she could say was ‘Give
praise to the Lord for all the wonders he has done in my life.” Gratitude to God was the theme for the
Morning Prayer and the Eucharist as her heart was overflowing with joy and gratitude. We were all set to
celebrate this wonderful day so elaborate preparations were made. All our sisters were invited but only the
sisters in the North were able to make it as India is a vast country. Her near and dear ones were invited but
were unable to come due to circumstance - not holiday time etc but will come later and are very welcome.
The house wore a festive look as dining and sitting rooms were superbly decorated and the chapel was
beautifully decorated with lilies, gladioli, roses and carnations of various hues.
We all assembled in the chapel for morning prayer and joined with ‘Bonnie’ as we call her on 21st morning
at 7.00 a.m. to thank God for all the graces and blessings bestowed on her during the last 93 years and
especially for this great blessing of being able to celebrate her Pearl Jubilee. Bonnie is very dear to all of us,
very gentle and loving and she is indeed our Precious Pearl and Power House of prayer. We thanked God for
her long years of dedicated service in different parts of India and that too in difficult missions which were
lacking the necessary facilities at times. Nothing ever deterred her and she always said ‘Yes’ to the Lord.
After prayers we felicitated her and then had a delicious Irish breakfast!!
Shortly after breakfast the sisters began to arrive as some had travelled over-night by train. Sr. Grace our
Provincial arrived and honored sister with a ceremonial shawl. The house was full of fun and laughter as
more friends and sisters arrived about 40 in all. Then Fr. Dominic OFM (Cap) who was to celebrate the
Eucharist arrived. He knew Bonnie from her long years in Kashmir. Sr. Bonaventure was also honored by
the presence of His Excellency the Irish Ambassador Mr. Feilim McLaughlin with his wife Soniya and two
delightful little girls for the function.
The Eucharist celebration began at 11.30 a.m. and choir which was composed of sisters and school children
added to the solemnity of the occasion. After the entrance hymn we had a powerpoint programme which
took us down memory lane from the time sister grew up till she entered Virginia the Novitiate House in Co.
Cavan and was professed on 21st April 1942 till she come to India and her ministry as a teacher, animator
and principal.
She excelled in teaching English, Mathematics and Geography in the senior classes. She was kind but firm
and always helped the academically or financially weak both as a teacher and principal. Fr. Dominic gave an
inspiring and very touching homily and he was also inspired by her dedication and encouraged us to be
faithful to duty especially in small things. The Mass concluded with a special blessing by Father while all
present stretched out their hands to bless Bonnie.
Then we moved to the dining room where amid joy, gratitude and excitement and showering with confetti
she cut the cake. The ambassador raised the toast and he was so happy to be present for this occasion as he
Page 5 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
had arrived in India just before St. Patrick’s Day. This was followed by a sumptuous lunch and
photographers were busy at work. The day ended on a very joyful note with most of the guests staying on to
continue to celebrate also on Sunday. It was indeed a wonderful day for her.
IPA News
The New York Based IPA Team on Nano’s Day
Sr. Maureen McCarthy describes what it was like to be busy at the United Nations on Nano's Feast Day on
26 April 2012.
We began Nano’s Day in the morning wishing one another a Happy Feast in the office before scurrying off
to Room A of the UN for the morning briefing of the nongovernmental groups. Ben Debrizzi of UNDP
spoke about new possibilities for attendees in Rio de Janeiro. Maps and venues are posted on line.
In regard to the negotiations of the text, the first paragraphs for section IV on the Institutional Framework for
Sustainable Development insist that decisions must be based on good information. All stakeholders and
partnerships must be involved. The G77 + China coalition, actually comprising 133 nations, continually
insist on the reaffirmation of the Rio agreements such as Agenda 21, (the Rio Declaration on Environment
and Development, adopted by more than 178 countries in Rio de Janerio, Brazil in 1992.) Other nations such
as the EU, USA and others resist this continual repetition, considering it unnecessary.
The most serious areas of disagreement have to do with monitoring commitments and reinforcing coherence
among UN agencies. The G 77 nations called upon developed nations to fulfill the commitments made to
developing countries in Agenda 21, regarding Multilateral Environmental Agreements for technology
transfer, as well as other financial support.
On the value of biological diversity, the US wished to retain language on ecosystem services. In regard to
biodiversity conservation, Norway added references to disaster risk reduction and adaptation to climate
change. On the origins of genetic resources, the US and New Zealand called for the paragraph’s deletion. In
respect to the intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, the US
reserved and Norway and the Republic of Korea supported the EU and Swiss proposal to “welcome the
establishment of” rather than “take note of” the Platform.
Australia presented two new paragraphs on sustainable development challenges of land degradation,
desertification and drought. The EU and Iceland sought to insert “and soil” after all references to land. G77 +
China opposed this.
On a coordinated global approach, the EU, supported by the G 77+ China added text on implementation of
the UN Conference to Combat Desertification. Myanmar added text on soil contamination and land
management. In regard to monitoring and assessment, Japan, USA, EU, and Norway asked to delete a call
for discussing a possible intergovernmental science pane.
Our end of the day celebration began with Marlette’s inspiring Nano Nagle Prayer Service in the transformed
gathering space featuring Mary Ivers’ luminous Ecuadorean table cloth. We were joined in prayer and
celebration by our UNANIMA office colleagues. Each of us instinctively articulated our appreciation for the
opportunity to contribute to our international mission and experience in concert our IPA commitment to
poverty eradication, equity, and empowerment of those made poor by global injustices. In Nano, we are one,
and with Nano’s charism, although geographically apart, we continue our mission together.
Maura McCarthy pbvm (Posted originally on the IPA website)
Page 6 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
Reflection for the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
This prayer service has been prepared for the International Presentation Association.
There are over one thousand references to the word ‘heart’ in the Bible and only a rare few intend the heart
as a physical organ. For the most part ‘heart’ is used in a symbolic, metaphorical way. In most of these
references heart carries the sense of the whole person, the very essence, the real or true self, the person in
their innermost depths.
In the Christian Scriptures Jesus is presented as a man of heart and, as his life and ministry unfold, he is
presented as compassion personified. God is love and Jesus is love incarnate; his life exemplifies what it is to
be on earth the heart of God. John concludes the prologue to his gospel with these words: ‘No one has ever
seen God. It is God the only Son who is close to the Father’s heart who has made him known.’
One of the classic texts of Jesus’ life giving love for us comes from John’s Gospel: ‘One of the soldiers
pierced his side with a spear and at once blood and water came out.’ (Jn 19.34) The blood and water flowing
from the side of Jesus (his life source) has come to symbolise Jesus, in an ultimate sense, giving his whole
self to us, that is, opening the riches of his heart for us. The wounded side gives us open access to the heart
as it were. When we gaze on the one whom they have pierced we see not just Jesus in the last moments of his
life; we see rather his whole life, we recall how he poured himself out, compassionately reaching out to
everyone, especially those most in need of his embrace.
Spend some time reflecting on or sharing the story of one of the times Jesus was moved with
compassion or told a story about being moved with compassion. For example:
When he saw the widow – Lk 7.13
A Samaritan traveller – Lk 10.33
The leper – Mk 1.41
When he saw the large crowd – Mk 6.34
Jesus said: ‘I am moved with compassion…’ Mk 8.2
When he touched the two blind men – Mt 20.34
The story we tell about Jesus needs to be consistent with this rich scriptural tradition of love. It is a
profoundly relational story. The God Jesus reveals is a God who is both personal and transcendent, a God of
love, a God who is against all dehumanisation or disfigurement of God’s creatures, a God who is
sympathetic to human suffering. Jesus’ life, death and resurrection reveals, symbolises and exemplifies that
God’s loving presence has always been present in creation. And, as he experienced his oneness with God, he
learnt that unconditional, self-expansive love was the only way to experience the reign of God.
And what is true for Jesus is also true for all humanity. ‘A new consciousness has enfolded the world. The
human is now the home of the divine.‘ (O’Leary) God’s presence is accessible everywhere in everyone’s
everyday experience – freely accessible, freely available. No intermediaries are needed. There is no place, no
anywhere, that is not infused with God’s presence.
A spirituality of the heart is all about love; the love God has for us present since the beginning of creation but
made known in the Scriptures and brought to full realisation in Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus not only makes
known God’s all-embracing compassionate love, he is also the perfect example of what it is to be a loving
human being. Following the example of Jesus we enter our own heart and discover there God’s love; and,
confident and deeply immersed in God’s love for us we are invited to go out and be on earth the heart of
God.
Extracts from Our Great Love Story: Spirituality of the Heart by Phil Fitzgerald
O Fire of God, transform us,
Burn away all hardness of heart.
Page 7 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
Free, O set free the fire within us.
Break down the walls we have built.
Let your fire leap through our resistance over the walls of our hearts and out into a world yearning for
transformation.
Burn into our hearts these words of Jesus,
“I have come to light a fire on the earth;
how I wish the blaze were ignited!” (Luke 12:49)
“The Circle of Life” Joyce Rupp & Macrina Wiederkehr p153
Spirit of Life, come unto me
Sing in my heart all the stirrings of compassion.
Blow in the wind, rise in the sea
Move in the hand giving life the shape of justice.
Roots hold me close, wings set me free.
Spirit of Life, come to me
Come to me.
“Spirit of Life” a song by Carolyn McDade
Ground of All Being
Breath of All Life
Spirit within all things
Open our eyes
Open our ears,
Stir in our hearts,
Awaken our minds,
And then we will bend low
And then we will know
that all is holy, all is one
All is holy, Holy One.
“Ground of All Being” a song by Jan Novotka
[Prepared for the International Presentation Association 2012]
Rio+ 20
Are you wondering what Rio+ 20 is all about? What is its significance?
To view a short video clip explaining Rio+ 20 click on the link below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmqXJcSthgU&feature=youtu.be
This eight-minute video has just been released by Vitae Civilis.
Friends of Nano News
Friends of Nano seek feedback for Rio+20
Mary-Anne Greaney (new Zealand) and Tamai Mafuse (Zimbabwe) will attend Rio+20 in June on behalf of
the Friends of Nano. Mary-Ann writes about their preparation for the event and seeks feedback from you.
Rio+20 United Nations summit on sustainability is fast approaching and I will leave New Zealand on the 09
June – in time to be at the pre-conference summit 13-15 June and the main event 20-22 June. Tamai and I are
appreciative of the opportunity to represent you. Tamai and I come from very diverse backgrounds and we
will compliment each other well. Being together in Ballygriffin in 2011 is a huge advantage because of the
relationships that were formed. Little did I know that Tamai and I would be working so closely with each
other again. I have great respect for Tamai and know him to be a man who listens carefully and is able to
Page 8 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
articulate well and I trust him and his judgement.
Going to Rio+20 is a great priviledge that carries with it responsibilities. A major challenge as I prepare for
the meeting is trying to understand the complexity of all the issues with the politics and ‘back tracking’ the
first world countries are engaged in trying to weaken or eliminate statements that would contribute to a more
equitable world. As time has gone by I realised the need to narrow my focus – what better way than to focus
on the core values from the 2011 gathering:Passion for the poorest
Covenant with creation
And underpin this with a Partnership with the Divine.
Here in New Zealand most people are unaware that Rio+20 is even taking place. The Presentation family
have joined with the Sisters of Mercy family in a series of vigil/protests in the grounds of parliament handing
out information and talking to people about Rio+20 and alerting them to the stance New Zealand is taking.
The New Zealand reality is very different from other places around the world. So ….
Tamai and I cannot represent you without your help! Please ask yourself, what is the single most important
change you would like to see happen at Rio+20 for your community/country?
It may be …






The right for everyone to have access to safe, sufficient and nutritious food
The promotion of access to land particularly for women, indigenous peoples and other vulnerable
groups
Regulating financial and commodity markets to address price volatility
The right to safe and clean drinking water and sanitation
Greater co-operation between all peoples
… or any other issue that is important for your community or country
If you would like to find out more then Google 'United Nations Rio+20'. For some good analysis of the
issues I have found the people’s summit very helpful.
Thank you for any help you are able to give and may you be richly blessed in all you do as you work towards
the reign of God.
Feedback please to Mary-Ann Greaney
Activities of the Associate Movement in England over the last two years
Sr. Teresa Phelan reflects on gatherings of the Associate Movement in the UK over the past two years.
Over the past two years the focus of the Associates here in England was Journeying Together, Associates
and Sisters in “Being in Communion” with each other, with Creation and with God and so “Awakening to
the Mystery of God in ME, in YOU, in US”.
The Journey was initiated by the Formation for Mission Commitment Grouping, which embraces Sisters and
Associates, with Anne Collins, Associate, chairing the Grouping. This journey was travelled in local groups,
Clusters and at Province level.
At the Province Level, we were very blessed in having Fr Teddy O'Brien MSC to present THREE DAYS
leading us through what was a challenging, soul searching and conversion experience, all in one. To facilitate
ease of attendance there were three venues, North in Matlock, South in Swindon and Midlands in
Birmingham, so that Fr. Teddy delivered each of the three separate days of reflection three times each!
The format for the whole venture was almost the same, each DAY being celebrated within the context of the
Eucharist.
The first set of days took place during Advent 2010, and the second during Lent 2011 while the third focused
on the Congregational Gathering 2012 and took place during Lent 2012.
First set of three days
Page 9 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
These DAYS were spread over Advent and were taken up with the whole notion of LOSS - loss in our
personal lives, family, community, ministry, province. We dwelt on our feelings, our emotions and the
reality of the moment.We were offered ways of finding our woundedness, of naming it, of claiming it, of
dressing it, of owning it, of seeing the God within it.
Second set of three days
These three cluster gatherings were celebrated during Lent and were, in a sense, a response to the first.
Having reflected on and named our losses and looked at the direction we need to move in we entered this
time
“Life is changed not ended”
with eagerness and enthusiasm.
This set of “Elijah Days” as they were known because of the LISTENING focus, enabled us to reach those
places of delight with ourselves and in others.
“Listen to the Spirit calling you,
Listen to his constant speaking,
Listen to his inspiration,
Listen to his invitation......”
Third set of three days
The Formation for Mission Team were affirmed in their efforts to make “Gathering 2012 a reality in the lives
of Associates and Sisters through a questionnaire which was sent to every person.
The questionnaire was around “Ministry and Work situations”. The outcome on receiving an excellent
response was to look at what could be offered within the context of this Journey in helping us to be more
focused, more Jesus minded in our Ministries and work situations. It was decided that another set of three
days be offered to the Province – Sisters and Associates
“Awakening to the Mystery of God in ME, in YOU, in US”
Conclusion
During this time the Associates prayed the Presentation Novena in their local groups and celebrated the feast
locally.
The Feast of the Sacred Heart and the initiation of each Gathering Step was also celebrated.
Each Associate Group celebrates the feast of Nano Nagle in its own way and this year we have the Feast's
Prayer from the Associates in the South West Province.
In 2011, we were graced with the presence of Sisters Terry and Joan who led us through the annual
Assembly Day with Input beautifully and challengingly presented around “Awakening to the Mystery of
God”.
Each Associate Group has a copy of the DVDs, CDs, which encourages us to be become more and more
aware of the on-going Creation Story and where are in all of it.
The document “We are Eucharistic People” was taken on board by the Associates and from responses it
would seem that the document was hugely welcomed and reflected and pondered on over a number of
meetings.
The annual Associate Assembly will be held on Saturday April 28th when Maria Owen will share her
“Friends of Nano” experience in Ballygriffin with the gathered Associates and Sisters; the threads of the past
year will be drawn together in the Liturgy of the Word (The Good Shepherd)-Vocation, Calling; new
Associates will make their Commitment and receive their Emblem; already Associates will renew their
Commitment, all within the context of Eucharist; and hopefully, the tapestry which has taken time to create
will be left with room for more and more NEW THREADS from the Gathering of 2012.
Page 10 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
Celebrating 26 April
Friends of Nano, Kabanga, invited others to join with them in remembering Nano on 26 April.
On the 26th of April the Friends of Nano Kabanga gathered to pray and have a meal. They invited leaders of
the small Christian communities and members of different churches to join them in the celebration. The
group used the prayer with additions and there was good sharing from all the participants. In their own small
way they are making Nano known.
Rita (Kaoma) and Martha (Kabanga) helped in the facilitation of the Farmer’s Conference in Livingstone.
This workshop was conducted for the women of Livingstone. The focus of the workshop was care of the
earth. The first picture is of the opening ritual where we acknowledge that we are on holy ground. The
second picture is of the ritual of our need to be aware of all the harm that we have done to mother earth and
hence the need to reconcile and commit to change our way of life.
[Submitted by Sr. Inez]
Associate Assembly Day - We are Eucharistic People
On 28th April 2012 Associates and Sisters gathered in Mackworth, Derby, for their Assembly Day. This
article written by Maria Owen gives us an insight into the day.
We gathered in Mackworth, Derby on a Saturday morning at the end of April. There were Presentation
Sisters and Associates from various areas in England. Some had travelled since early morning and others had
stayed overnight so the day's journey was not too arduous. The Day began with renewing acquaintances and
meeting new people - this was helped with cups of tea or coffee and a biscuit. Hospitality... a key practice of
Presentation. Before the main speaker of the day, Fr Teddy O’Brien,MSC, I was given an opportunity to
share a reflection of my experiences in Ballygriffin last summer. Having been given advance notice I had
prepared a PowerPoint presentation - I knew my words alone would not do justice to the experience. I
needed to share 'snapshots' of the Gathering - the difficulty was in choosing what to include and what to keep
for another time.
During my preparation, I realised just how much we experienced during that one special week last summer.
A year ago we were preparing to go to Ballygriffin - I was given an hour to provide a ‘taste’. I used the map
of the world, to which Noel added our photos, to show where Friends of Nano live. Then, after explaining
how the International Gathering had come about and who ' Friends of Nano' are, I shared a glimpse of our
week together. I tried to emphasise that although we ‘Associates’ in England have been in existence for 20
years, the concept ‘Friends of Nano’ is building upon our experiences rather than 'taking over' or replacing.
What I should have said is that, as a Movement, Friends of Nano is going one step beyond!
I did say that one of the purposes of our Gathering was to celebrate the living organism of Nano's charism.
When I finished my presentation we were scheduled to have a short comfort break before Fr Teddy began,
there was such a buzz in the room! So many people came up to me full of excitement and enthusiasm:
".... We don't hear enough about Nano"; "Nano is missing from our meetings!" These were some of
the comments.
As many of the people in the room were English, there was a sharing of the remorse I had expressed (on
discovering how persecuted the Irish people were at the time of Nano). Many of them, especially if they had
Irish relatives, had experienced similar feelings during visits to Ireland.
Copies of the Friends of Nano Guidelines were available to be taken away and 'inwardly digested’ - they
were seized and more copies could have been produced.
After the short break Fr Teddy began to lead us gently to Awakening to the Mystery of God through the
Eucharist. He was introduced by Anne Collins, an Associate, who gave a short summary of the Elijah Days
he had led, and how, over a period of two years, a process of Formation had brought us to today. Then,
through music, songs and thoughts we travelled onwards from the complaining voice of Jeremiah: "Don't ask
Page 11 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
me!" towards acceptance of who we are/have become. We would not know the heart of God until we got in
touch with our feelings. The long journey from the head to the heart! We were encouraged to bring into the
room our hopes and fears, our human condition: good and bad. "Come as you are!”. We were on a journey
towards the Eucharist, a journey that would last the rest of the day. Extolling the glory of God in men and
women, fully human, wanting to be loved , to be in control, to come to God, Fr Teddy read an excerpt from
"The Velveteen Rabbit": '“What is REAL?" asked the Velveteen Rabbit one day... '.
http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/show/326937 .
What does Jesus say to Zaccheus? or the woman accused of adultery? or Thomas? Why then am I afraid to
face God just as I am? When I renew my Baptism Promises do I grasp what they mean? Have I woken up to
the mystery of God? Who have I become? Can I sing my own Magnificat?
The afternoon session looked at ‘being’ in the world - ‘going as you are’ because you cannot go as anyone
else. The vocation given at Baptism may change over the period of our lives. We are personally responsible
for our use of time, talents and skills: for how long we spend time in any area of our lives and how we use
our talents and skills for the good of others. A Eucharistic Community is built upon baptismal commitment
and the qualities of humility, openness, generosity, reality, sacrifice, gratitude and truth. With the future
decrease in availability of priests we need communities willing to be transformed and reshaped. We were
challenged: what can you do/ what will you do, in your life from now on, to live in the mystery of God?
After Communion we welcomed the new Associates and renewed our promises as Presentation Sisters and
Associates. Sr Joan Ryan was charged with the task of taking four candles (the other Delegates couldn’t
come to Mackworth) to Dromantine. One of the Associates had made a beautiful candle especially for our
Assembly - this had been lit throughout our Day as we prayed for the success of the Congregational
Gathering.
This has been a long journey for us since we first began it on the Feast of the Sacred Heart 2010. During this
time we have reflected together on what it is to become “Awakened to the Mystery of God”. In this
‘Awakening’ we have experienced the unfolding of ourselves, like the Fern, into what it is to be in
Communion with God, with each other and with the whole of Creation. In this process there has been a deep
awakening to the Love Story of God, and to the Mystery of Oneness in our World. We give thanks for all
that has been and we pray for all that is to come, as we remember:
the faith that has been nurtured;
the hope that has been kindled;
the love that has been shared;
the inspiration that has been offered;
and as we continue our Presentation Journey may we follow the beams of Nano’s Lantern, and be truly
blessed.
[Submitted by Marie Owen]
Child Protection Workshop in Zambia
Two Friends of Nano from Zambia, Angela and Lilian, write about a workshop they attended recently in
Mongu, on Child Protection. Angela Malek writes: I was indeed very happy when I was asked to go to
Mongu to attend a workshop on Child Protection. It was my first trip to the Western Province of Zambia
therefore I was filled with great expectations at the same time anxious too as I was going to a strange place. I
did not know the language of the people there.
I travelled with Sr. Sheila Sheehy and Mr. Joseph representing the Rainbows in Lusaka, who work with
vulnerable people suffering pain and loss. We stopped on the way and picked two people, Ms. Edina
K.Maliti and Mr. Charles Musiwa from the Friends of Nano group in Kabanga. Then we visited the
Presentation Sisters in Kaoma and enjoyed their hospitality. After lunch we visited the fish farm. Then we set
out again on the road at 14.30 and reached Mongu at 17.30.
Page 12 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
On reaching Mongu we were taken to the Guest house run in support of the Cheshire Home. The hospitality
extended to us by Sr. Cathy and staff of Cheshire Home will never be forgotten. The workshop on Child
Protection on April 30th morning till May 4th noon. The workshop was done in such a way that there was no
dull moment. It was fantastic and very educative. I feel confident and committed to work with children and
others in the local community.
While in Mongu we found time to visit the market, harbor and the museum at Limulunga. We had a glance at
the palace of the king from outside. We returned back to Lusaka on the 5th morning with gratitude in our
heart to God for the countless blessings showered on us through all the people we met.
And Lillian writes: I would like to thank God and the management for this privilege that I never expected. I
believe this was God’s plan even before I was born and I thank God for knowledge given freely.I have really
enjoyed the workshop and learnt a lot of things that I never knew before, especially on abuse.
I realise now that I used to abuse children and other human beings without knowing that I was doing it. I
really thank God because since I started the workshop my children have started asking me a lot of questions
regarding my own behavior. They see many changes in me as I no longer scold them like I used to. To tell
you the truth, this workshop has really brought a very great change both at home and in the community
around me.
The workshop was well organized and the catering was very good. I cannot say anything bad concerning the
workshop. I am grateful for the knowledge I have gained without any fee/charge and I would like to commit
myself before God and the management that from today I promise to bury all my bad attitudes not by my
power or strength but by the help of the Holy Spirit. Amen
Come and See
Participants in a previous Come and See programme requested a two-day follow-up. The Friends of Nano
were actively involved in the organisation and delivery of the programme.
The girls from the previous ‘Come and See’ workshop contacted Mr. Jeff for a follow-up Programme and he
in turn approached me regarding the same. It so happened that there was no sister who knew the local
language free to come and help out so I got in touch with the Friends of Nano group and they willingly came
forward to organize a two-day workshop.
Mr. Jeff got together the girls interested who were interesting in coming and Ms Veronica and Namata
worked with me to plan the two-day workshop - menu, shopping and cooking. Sr. Cathy Crawford was
generous to release Ms. Veronica Mundia on duty to help out with the workshop.
Five girls arrived in the evening of the 25th April and the sixth girl came the next day to spend their time
together at Cheshire Home. The girls were helped to reflect further on their call, reading, reflection and
sharing on the story of Nano Nagle, Scripture reading and reflection and about the life and ministry of the
Presentation Sisters in Zambia and around the world.
On the 26th April the girls and the Friends of Nano were able to spend time together praying using the
reflection sent to us for that day. The girls were able to watch the DVD on the story of Nano Nagle and the
boy Jesus during the days here with us. The sharing after each DVD was so inspiring and encouraging. The
girls were also helped to reflect on the spirituality of being in communion and the importance of caring for
one another and for the whole of creation.
[Submitted by Sr. Annmary Andrews]
Page 13 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
Earth News
World Environment Day (5 June) and World Oceans Day (8 June)
In 1972 the United Nations General Assembly established the first World Environment Day to mark the
opening of the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment. The political, social and economic
problems of the global environment were discussed.
At the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment the political, social and economic problems of the
global environment were discussed, for the first time, at an intergovernmental forum with a view to actually
taking corrective action. Another resolution led to the creation of the United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP).
Green Economy: Does It Include You?
This is the theme of World Environment Day for 2012. The United Nations Environment Program defines
Green Economy as "one that results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly
reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities."
U.N.E.P. lists three factors that make up a green economy:
 Low carbon
 Resource efficient
 Socially inclusive
In a green economy, both private and public investments contribute to growth in employment and income,
while reducing carbon emissions and pollution, enhancing energy and resource efficiency, and preserving
biodiversity and ecosystem services, U.N.E.P said. These benefits promote the common good by improving
everyone’s quality of life. This is how a green economy includes you, the U.N.E.P. Web site explains.
The theme of World Environment Day 2012 invites governments, industries, communities, churches, schools
and individuals to learn more about the green economy, to assess whether or not they are included in it, and
to improve their stewardship of creation to ensure that the benefits of a green economy do include everyone.
This year's theme 'Green Economy: Does it include you?' invites everyone to both assess where the Green
Economy fits in their daily lives and evaluate whether development through these pathways towards a Green
Economy can deliver the kinds of social, economic and environmental outcomes needed in a world of seven
billion people, climbing to over nine billion in 2050.
Brazil is the host country for World Environment Day 2012. Brazil had previously hosted World
Environment Day in 1992, on the eve of the first Earth Summit, when world leaders, government officials
and international organisations met to refocus, recalibrate and deliver a route map towards sustainable
development. Three weeks after World Environment Day, Brazil will host Rio+20 where world leaders and
nations will gather in order to design a more sustainable future.
Reader 1
Walk lightly
Each leaf, each petal,
each grain, each person,
sings your praises,
Creator God.
Each creature on the earth,
all the mountains and great seas
show your glory,
Spirit of love.
And yet the hand of greed
has patented and plundered
your splendour,
Page 14 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
has taken and not shared
your gift,
has lived as owner of the earth,
not guest.
And so
the ice is cracked
the rivers dry,
the valleys flooded
and the snowcaps melt.
God our Father, show us
how to step gently,
how to live simply,
how to walk lightly
with respect and love
for all that you have made.
Amen
Linda Jones/CAFOD
(Pause for reflection)
Reader 2
We find ourselves ethically destitute just when, for the first time, we are faced with ultimacy, the irreversible
closing down of the earth’s functioning in its major life systems. Our ethical
traditions know how to deal with suicide, homicide and even genocide, but these traditions collapse entirely
when confronted with biocide, the killing of the life systems of the earth, and geocide, the devastation of the
earth itself.
Thomas Berry, 1996
(Pause for Reflection)
Reader 3
Today the great gift of God’s Creation is exposed to serious dangers and lifestyles which can degrade it.
Environmental pollution is making particularly unsustainable the lives of the poor of the world…we must
pledge ourselves to take care of creation and to share its resources in solidarity.
Benedict XVI
(Pause for Reflection)
Reader 4
Our mistreatment of the natural world diminishes our own dignity and sacredness, not only because we are
destroying resources that future generations of humans need, but because we are engaging in actions that
contradict what it means to be human. Our tradition calls us to protect the life and dignity of the human
person, and it is increasingly clear that this task cannot be separated from the care and defense of all
creation.”
Renewing the Earth: An Invitation to Reflection and Action on Environment in Light of Catholic Social
Teaching, 1991, 2.
(Pause for Reflection)
Reader 5
“As individuals, as institutions, as a people, we need a change of heart to preserve and protect the planet for
our children and for generations yet unborn.”
Renewing the Earth: An Invitation to Reflection and Action on Environment in Light of Catholic Social
Teaching, 1991,3.
(Pause for Reflection)
Page 15 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
Action: Spend five to ten minutes today outdoors in a place where you can enjoy the beauty of Earth.
Leader: Let us pray together
God of the sun and the moon
Of the mountains, deserts and plains
God of the mighty oceans, of rivers, lakes and streams
God of all creatures that live in seas and fly in the air
Of every living thing that grows and moves on this sacred Earth.
We are formed by Christ into Your People
Called to bring the world into Your marvellous light
As the Body of Christ, we are messengers of ecological vocation
We are entrusted with caring for this Earth which You have created.
Help us to love and respect it
To repair what we have damaged
To care for what You have made good and holy
Give us the wisdom and the passion to change our minds, our
hearts and our ways.
Let us be mustard seeds in our world
Bringing about ecological conversion which grows and
Spreads to every corner of the Earth
For our sake now and for every generation which is to come
We ask this through Christ, Our Lord. Amen
Catholic Earthcare Australia, 2002
[Prepared for International Presentation Association 2012]
Living Justly
Campaign of the Year Award
Students at IT Tallaght, Dublin, were awarded Campaign of the Year at the Union of Students in Ireland’s
annual National Congress in Ballinasloe recently. This is the first time the award has come to the college.
The prestigious award was in recognition of ITT’s Social Justice Week which was organised by the
Students’ Union, the ITT’s St. Vincent de Paul Society and College Chaplain Sr. Bernadette Purcell.
The first time that a Social Justice Week was staged in the college, the event aimed to raise money for
various charities while also promoting awareness among students and staff. As part of the schedule of events,
ten students braved the elements and slept rough in aid of St. Vincent de Paul Society and the Fr. McVerry
Trust while raising awareness of those sleeping rough at Christmas. As well as staging the sleep-out, students
attended a talk by Amnesty International on the issues facing Ireland and other countries in human rights
violations. Fr. McVerry, whose charity supports young people to break the cycle of homelessness, also
addressed the students. The boxing and soccer clubs raised funds. Other events included a fair-trade coffee
morning, a toy appeal, a flash mob dance and a fundraiser for the college’s Kenyan education project,
Karambee. A number of students held an hour’s silence for those who have no voice due to human rights
violations.
“We are absolutely delighted with the award.” said Joe Delaney, Student Union Welfare Officer. “It’s the
first time a campaign week has run in the college so to win a national award at this early stage is amazing
and we definitely hope to make the week an annual event. The week was a real success in terms of raising
money and raising awareness and there was a lot of interest from students and various societies and clubs. It
also created a great sense of togetherness in the college and brought students and staff together and made us
Page 16 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
all realise that we are in a much better situation than a lot of people.”
[Adapted from The Echo, an ITT publication.]
International Day of Families 2012
The theme of the International Day for Families this year is "Ensuring work family balance". Further
information is available on the UN Website
(http://social.un.org/index/Family/InternationalObservances/InternationalDayofFamilies/2012.aspx)
Empowering Women in Zambia
Ms. Namata Mundia recently facilitated a workshop with some Friends of Nano women sharing with them
about organic farming, local chicken rearing, compost, soap and herbal Vaseline making.
Ms. Ilyamupu the treasurer of one of the SILK group in the diocese of Mongu approached Friends of Nano
Group recently. Sfe offered to guide them on starting a small business to make their living. Ms. Namata
Mundia volunteered to share her skill in organic farming, local chicken rearing, compost, soap and herbal
Vaseline making.
On Sunday Ms. Namataa and Sr. Annmary went to the village where the women had gathered. The women
welcomed us with great enthusiasm. The meeting began with a short prayer and then Namata introduced
herself to the Friends of Nano group. They spoke to her about the work they were doing as part of SILK in
association with the Presentation Sisters in Mongu.
Namata then explained to the group the process and ingredients needed in making soap and herbal Vaseline.
Then she explained how she herself and other women benefitted from using organic manure and compost in
growing crops and vegetables. Towards the end of the discussion she asked the group what they could work
on immediately and unanimously they all spoke about compost making.
The group got up from their place with great enthusiasm to prepare their own compost in the campus of the
treasurer Ms. Ilyamupu. The women were in action and immediately the children gathered around the
women. We invited the children to join in completing the compost heap. It showed how easy it is to work
with children once the mothers are with them.
As we gathered again for the evaluation and prayer we made use of the opportunity to make Nano known.
The group said that they were deeply grateful to us for the knowledge and skills shared with them. They said
that they will get in touch with us as soon as they are ready with all the ingredients needed to make soap and
herbal Vaseline.
Reflections
Reflections for May 2012
Sr. Aurea reflects on the fact that she is Earth's lover.
I am Earth’s lover
You touch me with exquisite delight
Your heart beats in my being
You clothe me with your wondrous flesh
Page 17 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
And your wind fingers caress my soul with ecstasy
I am your dream come true
the mirror that reflects your face
your flesh-spirit that reaches you to your star home
Your being that is all-one
O Earth
awake me to the song of your heartbeat
touch so my desire
that I fall in love
that I fall into your arms
O Earth
awake my eyes to drink from yours
touch my spirit-body
to know you
to love you
to protect you
O Earth
excite my passion to be eucharist-woman
just as you are eucharist-communion
to every earthling
everyday
O Earth
entrust me with hope
that when I die
you will embrace me in your heart
where I belong
to you, to God
A tiny being of many colours.
I am a tiny being of many colours
fascinating refractions
of shades and brilliance
A fabric of shimmering desires
its texture gently flowing
turbulently rough
A spark of imagination of earth and stars
burning passion
taste of stardust
and love
A flesh-blood-spirit
designed in the womb of Earth
made from the DNA of stars
coloured by water brush
shaped by air sprite
emerging from Earth Fire love affair!
What a Moment of Grace
A moment so amazing
so beautiful
Page 18 of 19
Presentation Sisters Union
News Update May 2012
Print Version
so pulsating
so beyond
and yet
It is every being
It is you
It is me
A fascinating now!
For from celestial star-dust
Earth imagines herself into being
with passion and writhing
she conceives,
and
births living-life
in colour, in shape, in uniqueness
in tiny beings and spirit size
becoming
ground for roots
wind for wings
Earth
the flesh of communion
What a moment of grace!
Submitted by Sr. Aurea (Zambia)
Graced Moments
Sr. Annmary Andrews reflects on the deep simplicity of life in a visit to neighbour's house.
After the youth meeting at St. Lourde’s Parish, Mongu Ms. Florence along with her friend waited to take Ms.
Namata and myself to her house. This was the result of the workshop we had organized for girls interested in
following in the footsteps of Nano Nagle.
As we waded through the sand to reach Florence’s house she said that she was more than happy that we
decided to visit her house. The welcome and the hospitality shown to us really touched me very much and I
was reminded of my experience of visiting the people in Thailand and also some of the tribal areas of India.
What was outstanding was the way we were welcomed into the house, offered water for washing our hands
before and after the meal, clapping of hands before and after the meal, leaving a small share of food on the
ground in remembrance of ancestors before the food was eaten by us, eating from one plate, Florence and her
companion accompanying us for some distance as we returned home were some of the memories linked on
in my heart and mind.
The Churches’ and the Congregational call to promote cultures that are life giving was so fitting and apt I
thought. The invitation to nurture a contemplative stand in the midst of our lived realities of life became
more alive to me. It also challenged me to listen deeply to the people and their cultural practices, to be open
to learn and appreciate what they have to offer me. I was able to connect to the core message of Richard
Rohr to be ‘Present’ through his various writings and felt that it was actually being lived by the people I live
and work with.
From my experience I feel that most of the time we feel the need to change the way we are used to from our
childhood to imitate the so called developed countries and its practices to make us feel important and to be
respected in the society. The spiritual practices we talk about today are very much present among the people
I minister today. I feel called to learn, appreciate and preserve the great traditions that are embedded in the
culture and traditions of the people.
Page 19 of 19