Celebrating Anniversaries of Service to and with God’s People Members of the Region of Canada celebrated and feted FR. Rein Van Leeuwen, SCJ (60 years of ordination), FR. Bill Marrevee SCJ (60 years of profession), FR. Jim Casper SCJ (50 years of ordination), FR. Claude Bédard SCJ (50 years of ordination), and FR. Giovani Pontes SCJ (25 years of ordination.) “Without love, the tasks we face from day to day would be pure drudgery. “For these and for so much more we give thanks and praise to God this day, For complete text of Father Jim Casper's homily, click here. |
Regional Assembly looks toward the futureFrom August 08 to 11 the Canadian Region met in Assembly at Ermitage Saint-Croix in Pierrefonds, Québec. In preparation for the Assembly the three communities of the Region had responded to a questionnaire that asked each of the communities to take stock of its present composition and its ministries. Where would the community be in ten years? In view of that future, what projects do we wish to maintain at all costs? Would the present community in its make-up still be viable? What in our communities will need strengthening; what needs to be re-visioned, what provisions would need to be made regarding the members, the house, finances, care, support? Each of the communities presented their vision at the Assembly.  Then the members of the Assembly entered into dialogue and discernment as to where the Region wanted to be ten years hence.The Assembly ended with a Eucharist presided over by Fr. John van den Hengel, SCJ, the Regional Superior. In his homily, Fr. John touched on the core of religious life, the community. For complete text of Fr. John's homily, click here. |
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Father Bill Marrevee, SCJ, turns 80 and retires! “With and For the People” captures Bill (Marrevee)’s presence among us… For complete text click here. These words not only celebrate Bill’s 80th birthday, but also are a tribute for his many years of ministry with the Archdiocese of Gatineau where he was pastor in Alymer, Buckingham and the last few years in Chelsea and Cantley. |
Father James (Jim) Casper, SCJ, joined with the SCJ members of the Toronto Local Community, to celebrate fifty years of priestly ordination at Saint Thomas More Parish.As is our custom, the members of the local community celebrate the significant anniversaries of profession and priesthood and then as the Region of Canada we formally celebrate all anniversaries during our Regional Assembly each August. Thank you, Father Jim, for having the heart of a shepherd.  Some members of the Parish Team at St. Thomas More Church in Scarborough  Father Jim’s sisters and brother |
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MERLE STERN, honorary DehonianMERLE STERN, honorary Dehonian, one of the four musketeers who collaborated to tell the story of the extraordinary reunion of an adopted daughter with her birth mother, a tale of grace, gracefully told. As Wayne Barnett shares “many, many times our girl, Merle, weaved her magic. Her faith, commitment to family and unequaled people skills stood tall as one or more of us faced a variety of obstacles that, without her by our side had the potential to derail our project.” |
Commissioning Ceremony for the St. Thomas More Parish Scarborough DEHONIAN YOUTH heading to Poland for World Youth Day! After many, many fundraisers supplemented by a donation of financial support with prayers from the members of the SCJ Region of Canada and ongoing formation meetings , pictured are the ten Dehonian Youth pilgrims including FR. WILLYANS RAPOZO, SCJ who will accompany them. |
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WELCOMING FATHER LOUIS-MARIE BUTARI KAYAMBA, SCJ TO CANADA!Fr. Louis-Marie BUTARI KAYAMBA, SCJ was born in Kinshasa, D. R. Congo on June 6, 1957. From 1982 to 1985, he studied philosophy at the St. Augustin Major Seminary in Kisangani (Democratic Republic of Congo). He went to Cameroon on August 21, 1985 for his theological studies, until 1989. On January 7, 1990, he was ordained a priest in St. Maximilien Kolbe Parist in Kinshasa, by Bishop Tarcisse Tshibangu, and returned to Mambasa as associate pastor. On January 12, 1990, he began his ministry in a parish with 23 chapels. Along with the liturgical and sacramental celebrations, he gave formation sessions for the catechists in charge of these chapels and for the Christian members of these communities. He worked with the youth in different movements: Scouts, Eucharistic Crusade, Legion of Mary, choirs, and visited the sick. He began a new movement: “The children Kisito-Anuarite.” In his ministry for families, Fr. Butari organised on-going formation for families and the charismatic movement. From 1990 to 1994, he ministered with great joy even with the difficulties he was experiencing in his country. In 1994 he was chosen as Provincial Councillor and was assigned to St. Joseph Parish in Kisangani. In this parish, he ministered to the youth movements: Bilenge ya Mwinda, Xavéri, Scouts, Kizito-Anuarite, Legion of Mary. In 1996 he lived the most difficult moment of his life with the arrival of refugees fleeing their homes in the face of the rebels of the Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Freedom of Zaïre. His life was in danger when he provided a safe haven for the refugees in the parish as well as taking food for them in their hiding places or in prison. In 1998, he became pastor of St. Mary Parish in Basoko, where he stayed until 2002. As pastor for four years he had responsibility for 97 chapels on a territory as large as Belgium and as well he organized the 100th anniversary of the parish in 2002. Then he returned to his home parish, St. Clement of Makala, in Kinshasa, where initially, impressed by the life style of the Polish SCJ Fathers, he had discovered his religious and priestly vocation with the Priests of the Sacred Heart. He ministered there for three years and then he was assigned to St. Gabriel Parish in Kisangani. He studied psychology at the University of Kisangani and received his License in Clinical Psychology. During this time he was named principal of Maele College, with 1160 students, 36 teachers and 8 other employees. From 2009 to 2015 in this ministry he also animated St. John Paul II Chapel of Maele. On September 24, 2015 he was assigned as a missionary for the Region of Canada. |
WE REMEMBER: Father Joseph “George” Coppens, SCJFather Joseph “George” Coppens, SCJ died on February 14 in his ninety-fourth year. Father George was in his seventy-second year of his religious profession as a member of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the sixty-seventh year of his priestly ordination. He came to Canada in 1949 from his native Holland and spent several years after his arrival ministering to Catholic immigrants from The Netherlands. He assisted them with housing and employment, organized social activities for families, hosted evenings for youth, and was committed to keeping them connected to the church and their faith heritage. When his talents as an educator became evident Father George served for many years as a teacher and prefect at the community’s school in Delaware Ontario. He served as pastor of St. Joan of Arc Parish in Toronto, Sacred Heart Parish in Delaware, and Sacred Heart Parish in Uxbridge. He was appointed Treasurer of the Anglo-Canadian Province of the Priests of the Sacred Heart and until his death was the local treasurer of the Toronto community. In his senior years, Father George’s love of life knew no bounds. “The glory of God was fully alive” in Father George’s love of all creation which included birds, plants, fish and most evident in his faithfulness to prayer for others. His heart was the heart of a Shepherd. |
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WELCOMING FATHER JOSE RICHARD, SCJ TO CANADA!What an adventure Father Jose Richard, SCJ had with his journey from India to Canada! Several flights were either delayed or else connections were missed. Father Jose was to arrive on Thursday afternoon at around 2:00 pm but ended up at the Ottawa airport at 2:00 am the following Saturday morning. As you can imagine, Father Jose is now beginning to acclimatize himself and especially to our Canadian winter. Father Jose, a member of our Region of India, professed his first vows on May 07, 2003 and was ordained a priest on June 06, 2008. Prior to coming to Canada, he was involved in the ministry of formation in the Region of India. Father Jose will now begin his ministry as a member of the Parish Team at Resurrection of Our Lord Church in Ottawa. |
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NOW, NEW BEGINNINGS FOR FATHER YULIWAN!Arriving in Toronto on October 03, Fr. Johanes Yuliwan Maslim, SCJ was warmly welcomed by members of the Toronto SCJ local community and members of the UKI (Umat Katolik Indonesia). Father Yuliwan, a member of our Indonesian Province, professed his first vows on July 20, 1985 and was ordained a priest November 25, 1993. Prior to coming to Canada, he was involved in the ministry of formation and most recently completed several years as the Novice Director in our Indonesian Province. Father Yuliwan will now begin his ministry as the Catholic Chaplain with the UKI Community. With the arrival of Father Yuliwan, members of the Toronto SCJ local community more clearly reflect and respond to the international multicultural face of Toronto, “city of immigrants” where seventy one percent of the residents of Toronto were born in other countries. |
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Welcome to Canada!This afternoon on October 2nd, the Montreal community was pleased to welcome Fr. Engelbert Fotsing. Originally from Cameroon, Engelbert did pastoral work several years at La Capelle, France. At the end of his mandate, he said that he wished to do pastoral work in Montréal, that he visited a few times already. His stay there will be at least for three years. Engelbert, 52, professed his vows in 1985 and was ordained a priest in 2000. In the picture, confreres Dieudonné Tchouteu and Vermont Bengourion (who arrived last week in Montreal) welcome Fr. Engelbert. |
A Winding Road to Toronto
Pastoral ministry in the Amazon, mission work and administration in the Philippines, ministry to young people at World Youth Day… Fr. Benedito de Moraes Machado, SCJ’s path to Toronto was a winding one.On July 31, Fr. “Benê,” as he is more often known, joined the international SCJ community in Toronto. “It excites me to be here in Toronto, a new opportunity God has given me to know different people, different faith expressions and especially, the SCJ confreres here,” he said. Originally from Brazil, Fr. Benê spent much of the past 20 years in the Philippines, where he was superior of the district before it became a region in 2012. Soon after completing his term as superior, Fr. Benê heard about a new project that the British-Irish Province was hoping to initiate: an international SCJ community ministering to immigrants in London. I was seeking a new form of pastoral ministry,” he said. “I asked the Philippine council and regional superior if I could join the project. They said ‘yes,’ so I prepared to go.” But when the London project was put on hold Fr. Benê found himself with his suitcase packed, but nowhere to go. So, he headed home, the home he had known before his move to the Philippines: Brazil. “I arrived in Brazil in May, 2013,” he said. A month later he was assisting at a parish in Mato Grosso in the Amazon, a place he knew well from his three years of ministry there before going to the Philippines. Asked soon after to help with the Dehonian Youth gathering in Taubaté as well as World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, he grabbed his suitcase and moved again. And then Fr. Benê moved so that he could help a friend until the end of the year. The friend? Bishop Vilsom Basso, SCJ bishop of Caxias in Maranhão, Brazil, a fellow Brazilian SCJ who had also served for many years in the Philippines before being named bishop. “He is in a real missionary area,” said Fr. Benê, “there is a great need of priests, but there is also a fantastic and very committed group of lay people there.” Fr. Bene then picked up his suitcase again and in March moved south to help at an SCJ parish in Lavras, Minas Gerais. Fr. Benê enjoyed being in his native Brazil, but the idea of working with immigrants, based in an international SCJ community, was still something that he thought about. Then he heard about Toronto and the SCJs’ ministry to the city’s immigrant community there,  through the parishes of Our Lady of the Rosary/St. Thomas More and the ministry of Becoming Neighbours. With 7,000 families, St. Thomas More is practically a United Nations outpost with liturgies filled with people from the Philippines, Grenada, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and many African nations. Masses are celebrated in several languages, including English, Spanish and Portuguese. He contacted Fr. Bill Marrevee, SCJ Canadian Regional superior, and packed his suitcase once again, arriving in Toronto a few months later. He isn’t sure how long his suitcase is going to stay put this time, but Fr. Benê said that he is “grateful to God, the congregation and the Philippine Region for giving me this opportunity. I am grateful as well to the Canadian Region for welcoming me.” Ministry right now is both internal and external. Besides celebrating Masses at the two parishes, Fr. Benê also assists with care-giving needs for Fr. Joseph Coppens, who at 94 years of age, is the eldest SCJ in North America. “I really enjoy being with the people at the parishes,” said Fr. Benê. ”It is very interesting and multicultural with people coming from about 30 different countries, and, of course, the Canadians.” Fr. Benê also celebrates Mass once a week for the Sisters of Loretto who have a retirement community in Toronto. At the end of a brief interview, Fr. Benê was asked if he had anything that he would like to add. “My thanks,” he said again. “May God bless us all.” (Courtesy of Mary Gorski, US Province Communications) |
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New Canadian citizen!Br. Dieudonné Tchouteu, SCJ, originally from Cameroon, officially became a Canadian citizen during a ceremony at the Château Champlain Hotel in Montréal on September 02. Br. Dieudonné was one of 375 people from 60 countries receiving Canadian Citizenship at the ceremony. Accompanying Dieudonné in this important moment in his life and in the life of the Canadian Region was Fr. Maurice Légaré, SCJ. Congratulations! |
The Canadian Region in Chapter In the quiet Ermitage Ste-Croix in Pierrefonds, Québec, on the shore of the beautiful Lac des Deux Sources eighteen members of the Canadian Region have begun their 2014 Regional Chapter. Not everyone of the Region was present, breaking the tradition of full participation at such events. The two members of the Canadian Region George Coppens and Walter Van As are both in their nineties and find such meetings beyond their energies. Two other members were absent because of an illness in the family or travel. Otherwise the whole Region participated. Over the years the Canadian Region has become international. Although the Toronto community is recognized within the Congregation as an international community, also the Montréal and Ottawa communities are equally international. “It has been a real blessing for us,” said Fr. Bill Marrevee, SCJ, the regional superior. “With twelve members of our small number over 70 years of age, without the help of members from elsewhere we would hardly be able to maintain ourselves.” Currently, the Region has three members from Indonesia, one from Cameroun (with one more coming), one from D. R. Congo, two from Brazil Sao Paulo and five from The Netherlands. In the Fall a member of the Region of India will come to study pastoral counseling in Ottawa. The chapter is an assembly chapter. The topics of the chapter outside of the election of a delegate for the General Chapter and an approval of the finances, were derived mainly from a report on the state of the Region by the regional council. The main questions raised by the Council were the functioning of the Region in its new constellation, community life, internationality, regional committees and the aging of the original Canadian members. The chapter made a number of recommendations for the Region to tackle such as the number of required committees to assure that transparency and participation by the members was assured, the aging of the Region, a policy of internationalization, and the improvement of community life. Vocations are not plentiful in Canada. Fr. Peter McKenna, SCJ reminded the members of a line in the pastoral letter of the Superior General after the visitation last year: “A community without a vision towards its continuance slowly loses its energy and its capacity to live the future.” Some expressed the hope that with the new younger members coming from other countries, the Region would receive new energy in this difficult ministry. With the acceptance of a new, multi-cultural parish in east-end Toronto there is new hope that its youth groups can bring a new stimulus.
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“Anthropologia Cordis” IN TAUBATE, BRAZIL The Priests of the Sacred Heart gathered together 52 members of the Congregation of whom 3 were experts in the field of anthropology. The participants came from 20 different countries in order to deepen reflection on the theme which touches on the very essence of our Dehonian charism in response to the challenge we face in a world where understanding of what it means to be human is affected by the present crisis of faith. The objective was to review the identity of the human being today from the perspective of the heart. Seen in the picture below on the left is Father Gustave Lulendo, SCJ who represented the Canadian Region. Father Gustave presents these highlights of the conference: “We can speak of Fr. Dehon's anthropology, and of his disciples, as those who try to love the world and are undertaken to look for the divine light in the world although this one is soiled by the stain of sin. Dehon's anthropology then consists of helping people to liberate themselves from the influence of sin and sinful structures so that love might emerge more clearly and concretely. Dehonians must believe in the presence of the Spirit of God at work in the world and help others to experience God's gracious love for them. We must have a positive outlook on the world and all of creation and present the Heart of Jesus as a human heart, a heart present in our daily struggles and in the liberation of all people. For in truth, the heart of Jesus desires to enter our human reality in order to transform it. In following this primary intuition of Fr. Dehon's and his anthropological style, we can then re-offer this heart to the world, which it lost by disobedience and by choices which alienated it from its creator. As disciples of Dehon and “prophets of love and servants of reconciliation,” our mission is not to focus on humanity's failings but rather on helping people to liberate themselves from sinful structures (personal and systemic) in order that they may avoid sin and thus experience the love of God present in their hearts and to live it each and every day. We are called, as leaders, to live this love in order to allow others to discover the love of Christ through our example, so that together we might build the Kingdom of God in human hearts and in human societies. As Dehonians we cannot separate our spiritual lives from our ministries, from those to whom we are sent and with whom we work. To do this would be to lose the dynamism of our charism and to betray the profound intuition of our founder. The participants, in their geographic and linguistic sub-groups, surfaced what was for them the three most significant points of what they had heard during the conference, in order to submit material to the whole Congregation for further reflection. The broad lines drawn by the different groups exhibited a certain convergence and communal vision in spite of cultural diversity. Most of the groups focused on “the modem man without a home, a heart or a face.” Here are the points which retained the attention of the majority of participants:
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DEHON DOCSOn the occasion of the 171st anniversary of the birth of Fr. Dehon, Match 14, we offer you a gift of a website where you can find all the writings of Leo John Dehon. http://www.dehondocs.it The realization of this project was supported by the belief that the knowledge and dissemination of the social and spiritual thoughts of Fr. Dehon represent a treasure for the Church. Fr. José Ornelas Carvalho, Superior General SCJ, writes “I hope that you will all take advantage of the abundant material that is now made available to us to enrich each other and the Church as we revisit the rich writings of a man who, contemplating and experiencing the love revealed in the Heart of Jesus, dedicated his life in service to the Kingdom of God in souls and in society.” |
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Celebration, reflection and action;
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It may have been the NORTH AMERICAN Continental Conference but it reflected an internationality that went well beyond Canada and the United States. SCJs from Africa, South America, Europe and Asia were among those in the conference room not only as guests but primarily as fellow SCJs of the Canadian Region and US Province.
 Fr. Vincent Suparman, SCJ |  Fr. Gustave N’dotoni Lulendo, SCJ |
They began in table discussions answering the question “What are the three social realities of our day that most urgently need to be addressed at this time?” Many identified immigration and economic injustice. Other concerns: youth, individualism, violence, a search for greater meaning, relationships, moral values and the impact of communications technology.
Next, participants listened to the voices of the future: the youngest members of the U.S. Province and Canadian Region. In a conversation led by Sr. Cathy Bertrand, SSND, conference facilitator, six young men, including Novice Justin Krenke, talked about what gives them hope in the congregation and what they see as the urgent realities in need of a Dehonian response.
“The fact that we are here and talking about our future is what gives me hope,” said one of the young SCJs. “We are small in number but we can and do affect the lives of so many people. Continuing to do that gives me a lot of hope for our future.”
When asked what they viewed as the urgent realities of today, several talked about immigration, as did the larger group the previous day. However, many also emphasized that more effort needs to be placed on youth. Many young people today want to help others, they seek ways of social engagement, but they do not always connect “good works,” such as working in soup kitchens or helping the poor through home-repair, with their faith.
Most important, said another in the discussion, is to be present to youth, to share Dehonian values with them. “We need to make our life and ministry more visibly Dehonian,” said one.
What next?
In the final sessions of the conference SCJs identified ways in which the congregation in North America could respond to the urgent realities noted. Focus was placed on education –– the need to become educated on issues of concern, such as immigration, and then educate others through mass communication, the pulpit and in the many other ways SCJs touch the lives of people.
Fr. Peter Sanders, SCJ
Noting the SCJ-sponsored youth programs in South America, Asia, Africa and Europe, it was suggested that such programs be developed in Canada and the United States with SCJ youth days involving young people from throughout North America.
There is an energy and enthusiasm that builds in gatherings such as the North American Continental Conference. People spend time getting to know each other better, there is sharing and a growing sense of a common bond, a common purpose. Wonderful ideas are exchanged. Possibilities for the future are found in group conversations and in small one-on-one settings. “But so often that all ends when the last prayer is said and everyone goes home,” said one participant.
To help the work of the conference move beyond the four days that SCJs were together participants had one final table discussion in which they were asked for “next steps.” The most frequent response? That leadership in North America establish a follow-up committee to the conference.
“Dehonians in North America: Celebration. Reflection. Action” was the conference theme. During the gathering there was much celebration and reflection.
And now, the conference continues as its participants –– the SCJs in North America –– move toward the final part of the theme: action.
Smiling on the back porch of SHML
COMMUNITY OF CARINGOn September 05th, Fr. Paul Tennyson, SCJ will officially begin a new chapter in his priestly ministry as the Roman Catholic chaplain at the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre in Ottawa. Presently there are 450 beds in this long-term care facility, 250 reserved for veterans and the other 200 open to the general public. As part of a long term vision and strategy of creating a real community of caring, a Seniors Village on site, two new buildings are nearing completion, one with 45 units and the other with 94 units. As a result, by the end of 2013 there will be more than 600 residents in total. The village offers long-term care, the Guest House (for short-term respite care), a day program for seniors affected by dementia, convalescent and sub-acute care, and will now include independent and assisted living apartments. Fr. Paul shares: “I am excited about the many challenges that surely await me in my capacity as chaplain, ministering to residents, family, staff and volunteers and will also be the Associate Pastor at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish. May God continue to watch over our Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart and those we minister to and who minister to us.” |
 (Father Paul, in green, pictured with residents) |
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SHARING THE WORD OF GOD To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Father Bill Marrevee, SCJ ordination to the priesthood, a group of parishioners from the Archdiocese of Gatineau Québec produced a “book of notes” that guided Bill’s homilies and parish bulletin inserts. Archbishop Durocher of Gatineau wrote in his foreword: “Fr. Bill brings to his ministry a deep theological and pastoral reflection, as well as his personal interest in the lives of his parishioners and a zeal for the preaching of the Good News --- all wonderful qualities to be wrapped up in the same man.” To order copies, go to: www.lulu.com/content/paperback-book/sharng-the-word-of-god/13901208 |
60th anniversary of the foundation of Séminaire du Sacré-Cœur2013 is the 60th anniversary of the foundation of Séminaire du Sacré-Cœur by the Priests of the Sacred Heart who arrived from The Netherlands. Several joyful celebrations were planned during this year under the name of “Family Feast”, a very dehonian name indeed. At the beginning of this year, the students had a huge picnic where the logo of the sports teams was redesigned: the Eagles inspired by the name of the first Séminaire du Sacré-Cœur (St. John’s Apostolic School.) Later, the students were also invited to take part in a song contest as well as to create a video about life at the school. They were also offered a whole day of festivities with a Eucharistic celebration, a lunch and in the afternoon, a performance by amateur actors. In the month of May, there was wine and cheese evening for parents, staff members and the Priests of the Sacred Heart from their local community of Montréal. Many congratulations and gratitude was expressed to the Priests of the Sacred Heart for their contribution to the development and ongoing success of the Séminaire du Sacré-Cœur.  |
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NEW MINISTRYBrother Brian Tompkins, SCJ, originally from Nova Scotia, spent the last few years preparing himself to minister with seniors by studying gerontology in Toronto. Sacred Heart at Monastery Lake (SHML) community in Hales Corners (Suburb of Milwaukee) welcomed Brother Brian in September 2012. Brother Brian writes: "Since that time, and working with Fr. James Brackin, SCJ, the local superior, I have been responding to the needs of the senior members of the Priests of the Sacred Heart and all the other lay retired SHML residents. The large and beautiful SHML chapel is the center of the lay residence. It provides the setting and momentum to respond to the spiritual and liturgical needs of the residents. Though not a parish it seems a “microcosm” of one. (One confrere calls it “Brian’s Parish”) It can be challenging. I feel very much a part of the lay community, as well as my own SCJ community. My ministry affords me to be, in a sense, a liaison between the two distinct yet unified communities. Recently, I facilitated a Lenten Day of Reflection. Three times weekly I visit seven of our confreres requiring long term care who reside in a Congregational Home. After a short delightful visit, each one receives Holy Communion. For many, many years, I did not have a driver’s license, but after conquering my fears I now finally drive! I have mentioned only a few examples of what I do. And there are plans for much more. My work is an unfolding and developing experience. I look forward to each day. Perhaps it is trite to say but the residents offer me so much more than I will ever be able to offer them. I feel as if God has called me to SHML to be part of the birthing of this new community. It truly is a shared future!" |
BEING AN INSTRUMENT OF COMPASSIONI really enjoy working at Doctor Boyer’s Clinic. It is very human work. The doctor is not only very close to his patients but also very attentive, listening to their needs as well as to their problems of both their body and spirit. We work together in an atmosphere of trust and cheerfulness. Every patient is important to us and is treated with the upmost respect, courtesy, dignity and with delight when we welcome them as friends. Patients often emerge with a smile. We treat patients of all races and religions: our only concern is for the person they are. This ministry invites me to meet people as they are and “where they are at” in this moment of their lives. It involves compassionate listening and understanding of their condition. Thus while sharing our values and our attitudes with respect, dignity and trust, we attend to the person first and then to their well-being. One could call our clinic a home of hope and happiness. (Submitted by: Br. Luc Coursol, SCJ) |
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CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF GRATITUDE“On the occasion of the opening of the Year of Celebration of 100 years of Dehonian presence in the Cameroun, Brother Dieudonné Tchouteu, SCJ (originally from the Cameroun) and I, representing the Canadian Region, had the privilege to visit our African confreres. It was also an opportunity to tour the projects that the Canadian Region has supported in Cameroun and Chad. In the Cameroun, we have 109 confreres of whom three are missionaries in Chad. The projects that we support are focused on social education with an emphasis on wells of drinkable water as well as the installation of solar panels in parishes, convents, schools and health centres. Thus, we commit ourselves, with others to fight the different epidemics that ravage the people. With the installation of water wells, we have helped to alleviate the epidemics of cholera and typhoid. As you can imagine, there is a long waiting list for these wells and for these solar panels. The cost of each water well and its installation is approximately $6500 and the cost of each solar panel and its installation is approximately $600. We have chosen to support and to work in those towns where the epidemic is most devastating. As the epidemic does not target any specific area or religion, we work with those where the need is greatest, whether it be in a Muslim populated area or a Christian populated area. I had the honour to be present for the inauguration of three water wells, one of which was located in a predominantly Muslim town. It is unbelievable and moving to witness the gratitude of the people. In the Muslim town, as an expression of gratitude, I was offered the gift of bunches of plantain bananas, cassava carrots and a live chicken! During this opening to initiate the Year of Celebration, we were immersed in song and speeches: a very moving ceremony. It is unbelievable to see how our Dehonian missionaries have contributed to creation: they often achieve miracles with practically nothing in their hands! Yet throughout this visit a sadness seized me; a sadness to not be able to do more to help them build a better world! I saw and I believed!” (Submitted by: Fr. J. Claude Bédard, SCJ)  |
WITH GRATITUDE TO FR. BILL MARREVEE, SCJ“Original poetry and song, great music, testimonials and THE TRUTH, all came together one mid-summer Sunday, last year at St. Mark's parish hall in Aylmer, Québec. Why not? Gathered there, was an overflowing crowd, with well-wishers of all ages, intent on a good time over a long lasting pot luck supper. They gathered as a faith community to celebrate the pending retirement of their pastor...a man they regarded as a master builder and gentle leader over so many years of bustling growth in and around the church. That afternoon, before the crowd stood a genuinely surprised and truly humble "servant" of the parish... an academic theologian whose faith and love guided him to our little neighbourhood of blue collar workers. We are so grateful that he became part of our individual and collective lives, helping us understand and grow our faith, with homilies and treasured visits that continue to give so much meaning to daily life. St. Mark's has set up an annual educational bursary in his name, just a small token of the respect and love we have for the care and gifts we received from FR. BILL MARREVEE, SCJ.” (Submitted by Skip Brooks, Parishioner of St. Mark’s Parish)   |
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Welcome to Canada, Fr. Antonius (Anthony)!“Internationality is essential to our development as a congregation. All of us here are a result of the congregation’s commitment to mission.” Arriving in Toronto October 24, 2012, Father Antonius (Anthony) Purwono, SCJ was warmly welcomed by members of the Toronto SCJ local community and members of the UKI (Umat Katolik Indonesia). Father Anthony, a member of our Indonesian Province, professed his first vows on August 01, 1996 and was ordained a priest September 23, 2004. Prior to coming to Canada, he ministered as a parish priest in Indonesia. As part of his orientation and acclimatization to Canada, Father Anthony will now “spruce up his English skills” by attending English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. Interwoven with this will be his ministry with the UKI Community. Eventually, down the road, he also hopes to do specialized study at a university. With the arrival of Father Anthony, members of the Toronto SCJ local community more clearly reflect and respond to the multicultural international face of Toronto. Pictured celebrating the Feast of Halloween are Father Anthony and Father Willyans. As you have previously read, Father Willyans, too, recently arrived in Canada from Brazil. Exuberantly they shared that Halloween in Canada is “not like anything they have ever, ever, ever experienced!!!”   |
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CANADA: Regional Assembly From August 13 – 16 the members of the Region of Canada met at Mississauga, near Toronto, for their annual Regional Assembly. Outside of three elderly members, all the members were present. Also present were confreres from Indonesia, D.R. Congo, Cameroon and Brazil who are in Canada for ministry or for studies. Present also was Fr. John van den Hengel, SCJ Vicar General and the General Councilor responsible for the Region.
The first days were dedicated to a reflection on the spirituality of our Congregation. The reflections were led by Fr. John. The first conference was entitled “The History of a Devotion.” It dealt with the popular devotion to the Sacred Heart and its evolution to an authentic spirituality. A second conference “Dehon and our Spirituality” touched on the  evolution of the spirituality to the Sacred Heart with Fr. Dehon and the influences on him which led him to develop his own spirituality. A third conference “A Social Spirituality” developed the link – so necessary for us Dehonians – between “spiritual life” and “social engagement”. This link, always difficult to make, created already in the beginning problems for Fr. Dehon within the Congregation. A final conference was entitled, “The History of our Foundation.” It explored, on the basis of the previous conference, the founding myth of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart, which permitted a better understanding of our spirituality. Each conference was followed by an exchange among the participants.
On August 15, the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin, a Eucharist and a delicious meal underlined the seventy years of religious life and sixty-five years of ordination of the patriarch of the Region, Fr. George Coppens, SCJ.     Also, we celebrated the thirty-two years of precious and faithful service to the Congregation and for the promotion of Vocations to ministry in the Church of Mary Collins, an honorary member of the Region.
The last day of the meeting was dedicated to the business of the Region, particularly the finances as well as the work of the other sectors of life of the Region. The Region is bilingual so that simultaneous translation was available for the duration of the Assembly. |
Dehonian returns as bishop to the place he “learned to be a priest”Today, June 29, Pope Benedict XVI announced the appointment of Fr. Claudio Dalla Zuanna, SCJ, as archbishop of Beira in Mozambique. Fr. Claudio, 53 years of age, is currently vice-general of the Priests of the Sacred Heart. Fr. Claudio ministered in Mozambique from 1985 until he was elected to the General Council for the first time in 2003. He was re-elected to his current term in 2009. “When I came to council I brought my experience of the Church and congregation from Africa,” he said in an interview in 2011. “Almost all of my priesthood had been in Africa, it is where I learned to be a priest.” Fr. José Ornelas Carvalho, SCJ, general superior, expressed both his joy on the occasion of the bishop-elect’s appointment and sadness on his departure from the general curia. “We are well aware of what we owe him and how much we will miss him!” said Fr. Ornelas in a letter released soon after the appointment was made public. “We accompany him with a deep sense of gratitude for his dedication and his friendship.” Fr. Claudio was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian parents. As a boy he returned to Italy. He studied with the North Italian Province, professed his first vows in 1978 and was ordained a Priest in 1984. The Diocese of Beira was erected on September 4, 1940 and covers an area of 48466 square miles with a population of 1,422,000, 833,000 of whom are Catholics. There are 33 parishes, 29 diocesan priests, 49 members of religious institutes and 84 religious. Beira is Mozambique’s second largest city and the capital of the province of Sofala. The city is situated on the Indian Ocean near the mouth of the Pungoè River in the central part of the country. The port of Beira is of enormous importance both for the interior of Mozambique, but even more so for Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe who have no access to the sea. |
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WE REMEMBER: Father John van Rut, SCJFather John van Rut, SCJ was born in Lierop in 1913. He made his first vows in 1934 and was ordained in Nijmegen in 1942 (in the war years). He worked for a while in the office in Bergen op Zoom and then in social work in Amsterdam. In 1951 he came to Canada where he was involved as treasurer and as a pastor in various parishes. John became a Canadian citizen in 1957 and till his death he remained a Canadian citizen. He came to Asten in 1990. He was much loved there for his attention to everyone and his sense of humour. Living in Asten he was close to his birthplace and his family. John was looking forward to his 70th anniversary of his ordination on July 19. All the invitations were sent. He had convinced the provincial superior to interrupt his presence at the General Conference in Neustadt to celebrate this day with him. Unfortunately, the province will now have to send out the message that in the early morning of June 29 he died very peacefully. May we remember him in our prayers. May he find peace in the Father’s house. |
WELCOME TO CANADAOn Tuesday evening, four members of the Toronto community, together with Brother Johannes of the Phillipines who is visiting, went to Pearson Airport to meet Father Willyans Prado Rapozo from Brazil. He cleared security by 12:15 am Wednesday, just thirty minutes after landing. At 29 years of age, Willyans is the youngest member of our community and although ordained for only two and a half years, he comes with a variety of experience in ministry. He has already begun the process of becoming familiar with the city. Since the Archdiocese of Toronto is very much in need of Portuguese-speaking clergy, Willyans is planning to do ministry primarily among the Portuguese parishes. We are happy to have Father Willyans as part of our community here in Toronto and look forward to introducing him to the members of the Region and to the Toronto church. (the attached picture is Fr. Willyans being welcomed by Brother Brian Tompkins, SCJ) |
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“We, the Congregation” in Downtown OttawaWalk into the kitchen at our community house in Ottawa and you can literally taste the international flavor of the community. One evening it is chicken filled with Indonesian spices. But on another night it could be food from Cameroon, Congo, the Philippines or Holland. The cupboards have the usual staples of flour and sugar, but all come marked in bilingual containers of French and English, the official languages of Canada. The Canadian Region’s Dehon House in Ottawa has long been an international, intergenerational and intercultural expression of “We, the Congregation.” Many of the community’s members have, and continue to be, SCJ students from around the world. Often they come for post-graduate studies in theology, scripture, canon law at St. Paul University. The newest SCJ to the Daly community is Fr. Yves Leopold Keumeni, a member of the Cameroon Province. In 2010 Fr. Yves graduated with a master’s degree in Semitic and Egyptian languages from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Now in Ottawa, he is just beginning work toward a doctorate in scripture at St. Paul University. “We need more professors in Cameroon,” he said when asked about his studies. “We need more African professors in all of Africa. That’s why I am here.” Brother Johannes, originally from Indonesia but presently working in the Phillipines, shared that “I came here because it is home. I am an SCJ and wherever there is a SCJ house, that too is home.” (Adapted from U.S. Province Fridge Notes – February 27, 2012) To quote Wade Davis: "The world in which you were born is just one model of reality. OTHER CULTURES ARE NOT FAILED ATTEMPTS AT BEING YOU; they are unique manifestations of the human spirit." Yes, our communities and each of our members in Canada are truly a unique manifestation of the human spirit. |
Fr. Herman Falke, SCJ, Br. Johannes Sismadi, SCJ Fr. Gustave Lulendo, SCJ, Fr. Paul Tennyson, SCJ, Fr. Greg Murray, SCJ |
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Congolese Province looks at the futureThe Congolese Province is filled with young people in formation. At the end of 2011 there were 45 Dehonians in temporary vows. But that wasn’t the case in the early 1970s when a young Zénon Sendeke told an SCJ at his parish that he too wanted to be a priest. When he was accepted as a candidate in 1975 there was no novitiate, no philosophy nor theology program. “No one knew where to send the young Zeno,” laughed Fr. Zénon, who, after taking part in a novitiate program operated by another religious community in Kinshasa, professed vows with the Priests of the Sacred Heart in 1978. Thirty-five years after entering the novitiate Fr. Zénon will now lead the Congolese Province as its provincial superior. On July 1, he becomes the first Congolese Dehonian to do so. Congo follows the African provinces of Mozambique and Cameroon who are also being led – for the first time –– by citizens of their own countries. The Priests of the Sacred Heart are evolving from being a missionary presence in Africa to truly being African. “This is a great challenge,” said Fr. Zénon about his appointment as provincial superior, “but I am calm because I know that with the grace of God everything will be fine.” Read the full article here: http://lnx.dehon.it/en/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=243:rdc-congolese-province-looks-at-the-future&Itemid=77 |
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WELCOME TO CANADAOriginally from Indonesia, Br. Johannes Sismadi, SCJ has spent the last ten years working in the Philippines. Br. Johannes made his First Profession in Gisting, Lampung, Indonesia on July 20, 1987 with his Final Profession on February 10th, 1994 in Kalirejo, Lampung, Indonesia. In the Philippines, his ministries have included teaching high school religion, ministry for youth with an emphasis on music and being responsible for the finances of his local community. Most of his ministry was centered in the novitiate community and in Saint Isidro Labrador Parish, Lower Lucoban, Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur. Br. Johannes is currently on a year-long sabbatical (July 2011-July 2012). Living as a member of the Dehon House local community in Ottawa, he is enrolled at St. Paul University enrolled in a course on Pastoral Practices for Care of the Sick. Welcome to Canada Br Johannes! |
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 “FAIR TRADE: A HUMAN JOURNEY” Éric St-Pierre (Quebecor Media Book Group Inc.) Montréal, Québec 2010 Preface by FATHER FRANCISCO VAN DER HOFF, SCJ Member of UCIRI, in Mexico, and co-founder of the Netherlands’ Max Havelaar label |
“FAIR TRADE: A HUMAN JOURNEY”“The experience of small-scale indigenous coffee producers in the Southern part of the Mexico State of Oaxaca laid the ground-work for the fair trade certified labelling initiative. Francisco (Frank, Franz) came to know and experience their daily reality by picking up coffee beside them. In 1988 fair trade certification, with a distinctive label, came to pass, taking advantage of existing “worldshop” networks already in place in several countries. This was clearly a challenge to the predominant economic model. Fair trade proposes an alternative based on ideas of social justice, product quality and respect for the environment. Its aim is to encourage involvement and solidarity. Peasants are putting forward the concept of “decent poverty” as a modest and attain-able goal. Poverty already possesses its own wisdom, a creativity that enables it to fight death with love and life – and this is not just a romantic view. This is the kind of education that, with the advent of fair trade, has gradually led to societal, cultural and political self-determination. This book is a sign of HOPE that another world is possible.” As we know, Francisco Van der Hoff, SCJ is viewed and has been honoured as one of the primary architects of the Fair Trade organization and movement. “Le tour du mondé equitable” was originally written in French www.ericstpierre.ca. An English translation may be purchased at any “Ten Thousand Villages” store. |
NEW PUBLICATIONFather Herman Falke, SCJ of Canada and Father Piet Schellens, SCJ of the Netherlands published a new book that covers the whole Bible, from Genesis to the Apocalypse. The book is available in English, in Dutch and, thanks to Father Claude Bédard, SCJ, in French. The authors wish to use this publication as a thank-you gift to all who are connected to the Priests of the Sacred Heart or their ministries in Holland, Quebec and Ontario. |
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WE REMEMBER: Father William T. (Bill) MORE, SCJJust weeks after celebrating his 85th birthday, Fr. Bill More, SCJ, a member of the Canadian Region, died on December 8. Originally from The Netherlands, Fr. Bill came to Canada in the mid-1950s to teach at the SCJs' minor seminary in Delaware, Ont. He prepared for the task by first earning a degree at the University of Ottawa. He taught at the seminary until it closed its doors in 1969. Soon after, he began ministry with the Family Life Office in the Archdiocese of Ottawa. Much of his work was with those preparing for marriage, but after some time with the office he realized a need for ministry to the separated and divorced. He did coursework at Notre Dame University and became increasingly involved in the apostolate as it developed in North America. In Ottawa, he and a co-worker, Marjorie Moore, held monthly sessions for those coming to terms with their separation or divorce. Fr. Bill also produced a monthly newsletter and several brochures to help people deal with the challenges of a broken marriage and understand the Church's position regarding divorce. "For those dealing with divorce Fr. Bill was a voice of a loving and merciful God," said a member of his Ottawa community. Fr. Bill was also very involved with the local Kiwanis Club. In recent years Fr. Bill's declining health forced him to move to nursing care but he continued to receive many visitors from his days with the Kiwanis and the archdiocese. Fr. Bill made his first profession with the Priests of the Sacred Heart in 1949 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1955. May he find peace in the Father’s house. |
WE REMEMBER: Father Bill VAN DEN BERG, SCJBorn on July 26, 1931 in the Netherlands, Father Bill VAN DEN BERG, SCJ made his first profession on September 8, 1952 and was ordained a priest in Nijmegen on July 19, 1959. Soon after, he arrived in Canada on September 28, 1961. He served at the Procure for the Missions as the person in charge, in the years 1961-1962. Then, he ministered as a Chaplain, successively at Marie-Clarac Hospital (1964-1971), at a conglomeration of eleven private hospitals in Montreal-Nord (1971-1986), at Hotel-Dieu Hospital in Montréal (1986-1993) and finally at Fleury Hospital (1993-1996). In the Province of French Canada, he served as prefect of studies, councillor, local bursar for the Montreal Community, provincial councillor and provincial superior (1974-1980). As he reached retirement in 1996, he decided to go back to his home country. He then joined the Den Haag community. He kept a hand in pastoral ministry until recently, after he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. In late September, he moved in our community in Asten where he could receive adequate care. The last weeks, his health condition gave signs of a gradual deterioration. During the night of November 15, he slipped into a coma. He died on Sunday, November 20. |
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WE REMEMBER: Father Peter Botman, SCJFather Peter Botman, SCJ died on November 03 in his 82nd year. He was professed a member of the Priests of the Sacred Heart September 08, 1952 and ordained a priest July 19, 1959. He served at Neil McNeil Home, Toronto; Sacred Heart Minor Seminary, Delaware, Ontario; Catholic Children’s Aid Society, Toronto; and as pastor at the parishes of Immaculate Conception, Port Perry; St. Joan of Arc, Toronto; St. Anthony, Dartmouth, N.S.; and St. Patrick, Caledonia. Remembered as a gentle, welcoming pastor who was prepared to accommodate any pastoral need within his ability, Father Peter especially welcomed those who were finding their way back to the church. Father Peter enjoyed people and the uniqueness of each person. His love for people was truly inclusive. He knew that we all belonged to God and his relationships made that evident. We will miss his warmth and humour, the way in which he called forth the goodness in each person as well as the beauty in creation and all that this gentle, prayerful man has been to our community. May the perpetual light shine upon our brother Peter Botman, SCJ. |
IT IS GOD WHO CALLS US!Fr. Greg Murray, SCJ writes: “I've recently been assigned as pastor of two parishes out in the country near Ottawa. This is my first assignment as an associate pastor, and I must admit it is quite a change from my previous posting as Associate. Unfortunately, I am now responsible for the administrative aspects of the parish, which certainly makes my ministry different. Also, working in a rural parish, as opposed to a big city parish, has been an eye opener. Although, we are located within half an hour of the city, the feeling out here is quite different, less intense, friendlier. It is a pleasure for me to minister to the Lord's people, wherever I am called to.” |
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PASSION FOR HOCKEY; PASSION FOR GODFr. Paul Tennyson, SCJ shares that: “In 1991, I left my job as a letter carrier at Canada Post at age 47 to join the Priest of the Sacred Heart and study for the priesthood. I was ordained in 1997 and since then have worked primarily in parish ministry in Toronto, Hagersville, Aurora and Ottawa where I have lived since 2004. Since answering God’s call to religious life, I have had the privilege of journeying with literally thousands of people through the most important and vulnerable moments of their lives. I can’t imagine doing anything else with the rest of my life. Perhaps Jesus Christ is “offering” you the same opportunity “to follow him.” May you be open to God’s call.” |
CANADIAN REGIONAL ASSEMBLY
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The Canadian Region held its annual Regional Assembly August 15-18, 2011, at the Queen of the Apostles Renewal Centre, in Mississauga, Ontario, beginning on the night of the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary with Vespers of Mary and a sharing of significant moments in the life of the confreres and the communities during the past year. Fr. John van den Hengel, who comes from the Region, joined them for the occasion.
Cameroon becoming a province of its people
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On June 14, Fr. Léopold Mfouakouet, SCJ became the first African SCJ to serve as
provincial superior of the Cameroon Province.
Sacred Heart SeminaryLocated in Grenville-sur-la-Rouge, Séminaire du Sacré-Cœur is a high level academic school from grade 7 to grade 11 with approximately 500 students. Attached is an explanation of the logo found on the Prospectus of the School. Father Richard Woodbury, SCJ ministers as chaplain to the school. |
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WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Like you, we believe very strongly in the power of intercessory prayer. It is in this spirit that we request your help! |
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MEET THE INDONESIAN
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RETURNING HOME
"It is always better to be in one's own home!" This popular quote is worth more than gold when one returns to one’s country after a long period of absence. Rediscovering family, friends and habits are profound signs that reveal that one truly is at home. Nevertheless, this perspective can very quickly change or be a disappointment when one comes from a developed nation, such as Canada, compared to a country where everything needs to be remade or reconstructed, such as in the Congo. In fact, for any attentive observer, devoted to the cause of humanity, the situation that is taking place in the Congo cannot leave us indifferent: misery welcoming you at the door, screaming of the social injustice and the inequalities that do not even have a name. Right away, what should have been a time of rest and revitalization becomes a time of reflection, of preoccupation and even of engagement. One feels obliged to do something for others, to want to change everything, in short, to make the Congo resemble Canada in order to avoid feelings of guilt and of complicity. |
RETIREMENT: AN INVITATION TO NEW MINISTRY
Retirement presents us with an opportunity to reflect upon our life story. It is in this spirit that we offer you a glimpse into the life of Father Peter Botman, SCJ.
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Brother Brian Tompkins, SCJ
On Thursday, May 5, Brother Brian Tompkins professed his perpetual vows at the newly renovated Resurrection of Our Lord church in Ottawa. Several parishioners joined the SCJ community gathered for the ceremony. In addition to the members of the Canadian Region, two US confreres were present, along with Brian's family, honorary members of the community and friends of Brian from as far away as Vancouver. Several people in attendance commented that the ceremony was warm, serene and reverent. A reception prepared by parishioners followed and the evening ended with a dinner in the parish hall. |
WELCOME TO CANADAFr. Alexander Sapta Dwi Handoko arrived in Canada from Indonesia March 2011. Fr. Alex is in the process of “fine-tuning” his English skills. Once he has completed the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Fr. Alex will enroll in a Management and Human Resource Program. Fr. Alex professed his first vows July 1984 and was ordained a priest November 1993. As a member of the Indonesian (IN) Province he was a parish priest from 1993 – 1995, Treasurer of the IN Province from 1995 – 2004, and Provincial Superior 2004 – 2010. Blessings on your studies, Fr. Alex. Welcome to your new home in Canada. |
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MARCH 14 – International SCJ Day for VocationsMarch 14, the anniversary of the birth of Leo John Dehon, the founder of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart, is the designated day in which the 2,400 members of the Congregation, living and ministering in 42 countries, and their friends intentionally pray for vocations to religious life and priesthood.
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TRIP TO CAMEROON, BROTHER LUC COURSOL, SCJFrom 19 December 2010 to January 09, 2011, I made a trip to Cameroon: a nice Christmas present and a New Year surprise. What a touching and exotic voyage! Discovering the interior of Cameroon happened in Makenene while I stayed with the family of Bro. Dieudonné, with whom I live in Montréal. Besides the beautiful tropical scenery, mountains and savannah, I found people very welcoming, warm and caring. I experienced a sense of the family spirit, so characteristic of tribal life. I was immersed in African life by spending a week in the countryside with the family of Dieudonné. Far from the usual conveniences, it was a change of scenery a different reality to which I adapted well. I felt so close to the ordinary life of these people.
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SCJ Archbishop named Primate of BrazilArchbishop Murilo Sebastião Ramos Krieger, SCJ is the current Archbishop of São Salvador da Bahia and therefore Primate of Brazil since his appointment by Pope Benedict XVI on 12 January 2011. Archbishop Ramos Krieger had previously served as Archbishop of Florianopolis since February 2002 and was initially appointed auxiliary of Florianopolis in 1985. He is known for his tremendous pastoral care for the poor and for the most vulnerable. Let us continue to ask God’s blessings on Archbishop Krieger and his ministry of shepherding. |
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PUT YOURSELF IN THE PICTURE!The 2010-11 Vocation Poster was sent to 6,000 churches, universities and retreat centres across Canada as an aid to help women and men discern a vocation to religious life and to priesthood. You may have noticed this poster at your local parish church. Could this be you? Come and discover more about serving God and God’s people. PUT YOURSELF IN THE PICTURE! |
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On July 30 Father Adrian Paul Vernooy SCJ was called home to God after a full life of pastoral service and a twenty-year struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He was professed as a member of the Priests of the Sacred Heart on September 8, 1959 and was ordained to the priesthood on June 2, 1966. Father Paul served as associate pastor in the parishes of St. George, Ottawa, Sacred Heart, Uxbridge, St. Joan of Arc, Toronto and St. Martin, Franklin, Wisconsin. He served as pastor of St. Mary’s parish in Hagersville with its mission church of St. Ann in Walpole. May he find peace in the Father’s house. |
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It is important that we have some idea of who the founders of the Priests of the Sacred Heart in Canada were. What seems to have characterized them the most was their courage and their spirit of invention. They were not afraid of work, but they worked with a sense of adventure; they were men who related to the public with care and compassion; they knew how to make due with what was at hand - they knew what it meant to improvise. They savoured time spent in community, and as good Dutchmen, always knew where to find the best cheese, cigars, and pickled herring. It was a true sense of the joy of life which characterized them.
"It was to them that we owe who we are today, they moved to the times, they dared to respond!" - J. Claude Bédard, SCJ
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Close to 300 members of the Toronto Indonesian community (UKI)
gathered on July 17th, 2010, for FAMILY DAY PICNIC in High Park. The
UKI has approximately 3000 members comprising 500 families. Father
Aegi Warshito, SCJ, is the pastor of the UKI.
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For the past seventeen years, Fr. Zénon Sendeke Mouzho, SCJ, has been a teacher and
the principal at Institut Maele located in Kisangani, the Democratic Republic of the
Congo. This year, Fr. Zénon has the privilege of a sabbatical during which time he will
enter a programme of personal renewal. He will immerse himself in our Dehonian
Spirituality as well as continue to enhance his capacity to converse in English. Pictured at
a community celebration are Br. Brian Tompkins, Fr. Zénon and Fr. Aegi Warsito.
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JOIN WITH US in prayerful solidarity
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General Chapter 2009Representing two thousand three hundred members, seventy seven SCJs located in forty two countries are presently gathered in General Chapter in Rome. The General Chapter meets every six years and as the highest decision making body of the congregation they review the past six years, discern leadership for the international congregation for the next six years and determine priorities for the coming six years. Present from the Canadian Region is Father John van den hengel and Father Maurice Legare. |
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