Salesian Newslink no 33 by ZMB, Salesian Newslink

ZAMBIA - ZIMBABWE - MALAWI - NAMIBIA

Year 9 | Issue No.33 July - December 2015

Year of Mercy : Popeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter, Logo & Motto, Prayer Bicentenary Celebration in ZMB Pastoral Care of the Planet Africa Beatified: Bl. Daswa Know Your Faith Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

In this Issue... Year of Mercy

• Pope’s Letter | 6 • Logo & Motto | 19 • Prayer of Pope Francis for the Jubilee | 34 Message

• From the Provincial | 4 • From the Rector Major | 8

Feature Article

• Pastoral Care of the Planet | 20 Church Today

DB 200

• Synod of Bishops on the Family | 10

• Desire: The Essence of Prayer | 25 • Thinktribute | 29

• Priestly Ordination | 12 • Perpetual Profession | 22 • Silver Jubilee of Fr. Peter Gozdalski sdb | 26 News

• Salesian News | 31 • ZMB Photos | 33 Editor: Fr.Diravya Rupen SDB Photos: Fr.Andrew Reut SDB, Fr.Rupen SDB, David Advisory Council: Fr.George Chalissery SDB, Sr.Chanda FMA Fr. Tresphord Chisanga SDB, Bro. Walter SDB Financial Advisor: Bro. Walter SDB Editorial Team: Mr. Loius Mwewa, Deacon John Musonda Design & Layout: Fr.Diravya Rupen SDB, Fr. Javier A. Barrientos SDB Printed: Printing Press - ZMB Provincial House E-Mail: communication@salesianszmb.org munirupenmission@gmail.com ___________________________ PUBLICATION OF NEXT ISSUE - 24 March 2016 The Text and Photos (News) & Articles should reach us before 10 March 2016 ------------------------------------------------------------------

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-Salesian NewslinkZMB Quarterly Publication Year 9/N033 July - December 2015

EDITORIAL

ur own point of view is the view of our life. Each of us has unique ideas, opinions and concepts, which are Fr. P. Diravya Rupen sdb caused by unique personality in which we belong to. Personality categories make all of us unique and different. We don’t see through eyes, but through our personality.

t the entrance of Venice, under a tree, there was an old man and he was wise as well. A passer-by came there, approached him and asked him, “Sir, May I know something about the people who dwell here in this city of Venice? Are they OK? Do they relate well?” The old man asked, “where do you come from?” “I am from the town of Queen.” “Tell about your people….do they relate well?,” asked the old man. “Oh! Terrible. The people of my place are bad, bad, bad to the core. They don’t know to behave well. Lack of understanding, clashes and jealousies….these are the norms of every day life.” The old man cried, “Oh! Yeah! Even here the situation remains the same. It is good that you approached me to inquire about the people in Venice. They don’t relate well with others in good terms. They are totally rubbish and may not even accept you. Better move away from here immediately.” The passer-by thanked the old man for saving his life and went away in the same direction he came from.

fter some moments, another passer-by came from the same town of Queen and approached the same old man to inquire about the people of Venice. The old man posed the same question as well. This person mentioned, “Ah! Beautiful. My people in Queen are so beautiful, lovely and marvellous. They love each other and accept even an unknown person. They support each other and help one another. I always proud to be one among them, and I am fortunate to be born there and share life with my people.” The old man, with bright smile in his face, replied, “What a coincidence! You are at the right place. Even here, the people love another and help each other. I don’t want to mention anything more about it, because you are going to experience that by yourself. Have a pleasant stay in the city of Venice.”

hat we are is seen in others. My true self is always projected on to others. My own world view shapes my life. The point of view of mine becomes the view of my life. By proclaiming the jubilee year of Mercy, Pope Francis has effectively called on the entire Catholic Church to refashion itself as a place not of judgement or condemnation but of pardon and merciful love. Through this more and more people will be touched more deeply by God’s mercy. This jubilee year is all about being generous dispensers of God’s gift. Pope Francis understands that the nature of the Gospel, the nature of the church, and the desperate need of humankind all centre on the mercy of God. Through this Holy Year of Mercy, let us become full recipients of this mercy. Let us change our view and be distributors of mercy to others, by being grasped by mercy and try to ‘be merciful, just as Our Father is merciful. Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

MeSSAGe

Provincial’s Message

ear Friends,

ffectionate greetings to you all. There have been many beautiful events that took place in ZMB, in the past months and it is good to remember them, so that we can be grateful to God for His abundant blessings to us all. On 27th June, we had the priestly ordination of Fr Emmanuel George Phiri and Emmanuel Mark Phiri, the first Salesian Priests from Malawi. They are indeed the first fruits of our Salesian Mission in Malawi and it is significant that they both come from our 2 presences in Malawi - Fr George Phiri comes from our Parish in Lilongwe and Fr Mark Phiri comes from an outstation of our Parish in Nkhotakota. The ordination Eucharist was very well planned by the Salesians of both Communities and the Parish representatives of Don Bosco Parish, Lilongwe. There were plenty of people and there were representatives from the Salesian Family from all our 4 countries. It was a true family celebration and I am sure many seeds of vocations have been sown in the hearts of the numerous youngsters who were present at this beautiful celebration.

From 4 – 6 July, we had the Youth Rally at the Salesian Sisters’ Community of City of Hope. Together with the patrons and matrons and SDBs, FMAs and Salesian Cooperators, close to 900 young people were present at this Youth Rally held to celebrate the Bicentenary of Don Bosco in ZMB. Though the weather was very cold, the hearts of all the participants were filled with lots of warmth as we celebrated together this great event. It was evident that all the participants were very much taken aback by the atmosphere of joy and friendliness that was present and several were already looking for another youth rally the coming year. Great enthusiasm was stirred up among the young people present to take Don Bosco as their patron and pray to him every day entrusting their life and vocation to him. On 1st August, we had the Final Profession of Bro. Alexio Mesi and Bro David Njolo at the Provincial House in Lusaka. This was also a wonderful family feast as the Salesian Sisters and Salesian Cooperators joined in to make this celebration a memorable one. There was another high point in the celebration of the Bicentenary of Don Bosco. On 15th and 16th August we were again gathered together to celebrate the Bicentenary of the Birth of Don Bosco as a Salesian Family at the FMA community of City of Hope. We had the First Profession of 10 young Salesians - 3 from AFM Vice-Province and 7 from ZMB Vice-Province - on 15th August and on 16th August as we concluded the Bicentenary celebrations, we had 93 Salesian cooperators, from our 4 countries, making their Promise. Four new units of Salesian cooperators were also canonically erected – Rundu in Namibia, and Mazabuka, Mansa and Kasama in Zambia. I would like to congratulate Mrs Sikazwe, the Provincial Coordinator of the Salesian Cooperators and her team and the Salesian Sisters and the Salesians from different communities and our Salesian Family Delegate, Fr Leszek Aksamit for taking pains to prepare these new Salesian Cooperators so that they could make their promise on the 200th Birthday of Don Bosco.

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There are other Cooperators who have already started their formation programme. I think this was the biggest number of cooperators making their promise at the Bicentenary of Don Bosco. I am sure the Salesian Cooperators will make an indelible mark in the history of the Salesian ministry in the Southern Africa Province of the Salesian Sisters and in our ZMB Vice-Province Now that the Bicentenary celebrations of the Birth of Don Bosco has come to an end, what are its fruits? I can say that we have strengthened our sense of being one Family of Don Bosco. Bishop Clement Mulenga SDB was the main celebrant at the Eucharist on both days. He and Sr Consuelo FMA, shared with us some insights about the Salesian Family. Sr Julienne Munyemba FMA, the Mother Provincial of the Salesian Sisters, also made it a point to attend the celebrations with us. There were many SDBs, FMAs and very many Salesian Cooperators from our 4 Countries, present. Don Bosco wanted all people of good will to join hands in helping young people to be God-fearing and honest citizens. I am sure from ZMB, several initiatives will take off now, in helping more young people especially those that are on the peripheries of Society. I wish you all God’s blessings in abundance. I believe the significant special contribution of Don Bosco was the aspect of translating holiness into being cheerful and he showed the young to be saintly by being happy. This is why Don Bosco endeared himself to the young. The Rector Major in his concluding message for the Bicentenary of Don Bosco said that he dreams of a ‘Congregation of Salesians who are happy Salesians, filled with passion for God and for the poorest of the young, ready to educate and evangelize the young through a radical ministry of missionary service’!! I have very high hopes that in ZMB we have already set good foundations to make this dream of our living Don Bosco, a reality. May our father Don Bosco intercede with the Lord for this grace for all of us. Thanking you and with best wishes and prayers, Yours affly, Fr George Chalissery SDB

MISSIONARY FROM ZMB Bro. Don Nyika sdb recieved the Missionary Cross from the hands of the Rector Major. He reached Rome to attend the Missionary Course. He is sent to Albania. We wish him all the best in his ministry in Albania and we support him with our prayers. We hope many more missionary vocations will come from ZMB.

The Vice Province of ZMB is blessed with eight Novices. They are: Elijah Lowole, Andrew Chishimba, Thomas Zelewende, Noah Alexander, Aubrey Julius Taulo, Gift Eddie Blair, Comfort Nyati, Pascal Nkandu. We wish them all well in their preperation for becoming Salesians. We wish Fr Krzysztof Rychcik SDB in his tireless work as the Novice Master to form them to be true sons of Don Bosco.

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Pope Francisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Year of Mercy letter To My Venerable Brother Archbishop Rino Fisichella President of the Pontifical Council

for the Promotion of the New Evangelization

ith the approach of the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy I would like to focus on several points which I believe require attention to enable the celebration of the Holy Year to be for all believers a true moment of encounter with the mercy of God. It is indeed my wish that the Jubilee be a living experience of the closeness of the Father, whose tenderness is almost tangible, so that the faith of every believer may be strengthened and thus testimony to it be ever more effective. My thought first of all goes to all the faithful who, whether in individual Dioceses or as pilgrims to Rome, will experience the grace of the Jubilee. I wish that the Jubilee Indulgence may reach each one as a genuine experience of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mercy, which comes to meet each person in the Face of the Father who welcomes and forgives, forgetting completely the sin committed. To experience and obtain the Indulgence, the faithful are called to make a brief pilgrimage to the Holy Door, open in every Cathedral or in the churches designated by the Diocesan Bishop, and in the four Papal Basilicas in Rome, as a sign of the deep desire for true conversion. Likewise, I dispose that the Indulgence may be obtained in the Shrines in which the Door of Mercy is open and in the churches which traditionally are identified as Jubilee Churches. It is important that this moment be linked, first and foremost, to the Sacrament of Reconciliation and to the celebration of the Holy Eucharist with a reflection on mercy. It will be necessary to accompany these celebrations with the profession of faith and with prayer for me and for the intentions that I bear in my heart for the good of the Church and of the entire world. Additionally, I am thinking of those for whom, for various reasons, it will be impossible to enter the Holy Door, particularly the sick and people who are elderly and alone, often confined to the home. For them it will be of great help to live their sickness and suffering as an experience of closeness to the Lord who in the mystery of his Passion, death and Resurrection indicates the royal road which gives meaning to pain and loneliness. Living with faith and joyful hope this moment of trial, receiving communion or attending Holy Mass and community prayer, even through the various means of communication, will be for them the means of obtaining the Jubilee Indulgence. My thoughts also turn to those incarcerated, whose freedom is limited. The Jubilee Year has always constituted an opportunity for great amnesty, which is intended to include the many people who,

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despite deserving punishment, have become conscious of the injustice they worked and sincerely wish to reenter society and make their honest contribution to it. May they all be touched in a tangible way by the mercy of the Father who wants to be close to those who have the greatest need of his forgiveness. They may obtain the Indulgence in the chapels of the prisons... the mercy of God is able to transform hearts, and is also able to transform bars into an experience of freedom. I have asked the Church in this Jubilee Year to rediscover the richness encompassed by the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. The experience of mercy, indeed, becomes visible in the witness of concrete signs as Jesus himself taught us. Each time that one of the faithful personally performs one or more of these actions, he or she shall surely obtain the Jubilee Indulgence. Hence the commitment to live by mercy so as to obtain the grace of complete and exhaustive forgiveness by the power of the love of the Father who excludes no one. The Jubilee Indulgence is thus full, the fruit of the very event which is to be celebrated and experienced with faith, hope and charity. Furthermore, the Jubilee Indulgence can also be obtained for the deceased. We are bound to them by the witness of faith and charity that they have left us. Thus, as we remember them in the Eucharistic celebration, thus we can, in the great mystery of the Communion of Saints, pray for them, that the merciful Face of the Father free them of every remnant of fault and strongly embrace them in the unending beatitude. One of the serious problems of our time is clearly the changed relationship with respect to life. A widespread and insensitive mentality has led to the loss of the proper personal and social sensitivity to welcome new life. The tragedy of abortion is experienced by some with a superficial awareness, as if not realizing the extreme harm that such an act entails. Many others, on the other hand, although experiencing this moment as a defeat, believe that they have no other option. I think in particular of all the women who have resorted to abortion. I am well aware of the pressure that has led them to this decision. I know that it is an existential and moral ordeal. I

CHURcH TODAY

have met so many women who bear in their heart the scar of this agonizing and painful decision. What has happened is profoundly unjust; yet only understanding the truth of it can enable one not to lose hope. The forgiveness of God cannot be denied to one who has repented, especially when that person approaches the Sacrament of Confession with a sincere heart in order to obtain reconciliation with the Father. For this reason too, I have decided, notwithstanding anything to the contrary, to concede to all priests for the Jubilee Year the discretion to absolve of the sin of abortion those who have procured it and who, with contrite heart, seek forgiveness for it. May priests fulfil this great task by expressing words of genuine welcome combined with a reflection that explains the gravity of the sin committed, besides indicating a path of authentic conversion by which to obtain the true and generous forgiveness of the Father who renews all with his presence. A final consideration concerns those faithful who for various reasons choose to attend churches officiated by priests of the Fraternity of St. Pius X. This Jubilee Year of Mercy excludes no one. From various quarters, several Brother Bishops have told me of their good faith and sacramental practice, combined however with an uneasy situation from the pastoral standpoint. I trust that in the near future solutions may be found to recover full communion with the priests and superiors of the Fraternity. In the meantime, motivated by the need to respond to the good of these faithful, through my own disposition, I establish that those who during the Holy Year of Mercy approach these priests of the Fraternity of St. Pius X to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation shall validly and licitly receive the absolution of their sins. Trusting in the intercession of the Mother of Mercy, I entrust the preparations for this Extraordinary Jubilee Year to her protection. From the Vatican, 1 September 2015

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STRENNA 2016 WITH JESUS,

let us adventure in the Spirit together!

RECTOR MAJOR

STRENNA 2016

Don Bosco himself lived his entire life, open to the Spirit, because it was his desire to respond to what God asked of him, with regard to himself and for the sake of his boys. The path he followed at Chieri and his continual searching were a truly adventurous journey, as he allowed himself to be guided by the Spirit. This journey led him down the years to that harmony and personal unity that were far removed from any kind of fragmentation. It was the same thing with the Lord Jesus, with Mary of Nazareth - they lived an adventure of the Spirit that meant trusting in God without knowing the point of arrival and with Don Bosco, whose yes to the Spirit was a real life adventure with incredible challenges. And this is the invitation we receive each day to go deeper along the path of the Spirit, allowing ourselves to be accompanied, led and surprised by Him. It is a path that holds a lot of “adventure”: in it there are no certainties, but the point of arrival is fascinating. How do we express and manifest this path of interiority and spirituality that enables us to let the Spirit accompany our lives?

wITH JESUS,

let us adventure in the Spirit

This is a brief summary of some ideas made on Strenna by our Rector Major

ife is where we find ourselves at the crossroads. We are all familiar with this experience, confronted as we are by a variety of paths and options. And it is precisely along the path of life that the Spirit operates and, in all freedom, knocks on the door of every human heart. In one way or another we all have the experience of being travellers, and there are days when we have travelled long distances. This experience of journeying sheds light on what it means to engage in an adventure with the Spirit. Why? What does it mean to “adventure in the Spirit”? In the first place, it is an INTERIOR journey. But, an interior journey is not only an exercise of entering into our inmost self, however good such an exercise may be. For us who are believers, it is a journey of SPIRITUALITY, a spirituality that is cultivated and expressed in ways we shall speak of later. Jesus himself lived an authentic “adventure” of openness to the Spirit. He always sought the Will of the Father who in His Spirit inspired, accompanied, moved and guided Him…

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It is expressed in a profound experience of faith. In cultivating the community dimension of this same faith. By growing in mercy and in the fraternal dimension of our life. Finally, we would like to ask you, dear young people, to allow us to make this voyage of discovery together. Let us walk this journey together! Let us learn together, let us experience together, because this will do a lot of good to all of us. And, in this “all” we include the Salesian Family in all its various manifestations for whom this Strenna is primarily intended. But, we also think of you, the many thousands and thousands of young people who in various countries, cultures and Salesian presences are the animators of other young people, accompanying them on this adventurous journey, accompanied along the way by Him, the Spirit of God, who, as we said, surprises, stimulates, provokes, inspires, fascinates and accompanies ... Ángel Fernández Artime

C Y E R L A E N b E

TION RA

BICEN T

GATHERING OF THE SALESIAN FAMILY IN ZMB

icentenary Celebrations in the vice province of ZMB turned out to be more meaningful and grand, by the gathering of the Salesian Family. On 15th August, the First Profession of 10 Novices was witnessed. They are Bros Zikalala Malibongwe, Thabo Molala, and Thabo Nhlanhla from AFM and Oliver Katongo, Godfrey Likumbi, Adrian Matebesi, Ernest Musonda, Andrew Phiri, Constantine Sibanda and Clement Thanda from ZMB . Fr Michael Connell the ViceProvincial of AFM received the vows of the novices. These are the Bicentenary gifts to the salesian world. On 16th August, the solemn Eucharist was celebrated at which 93 Salesian Cooperators made their promise. There were new co-operators from Namibia, Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

Zimbabwe and Zambia. There were also 4 centres of the Salesian Cooperators canonically erected – Rundu, Mazabuka, Kasama and Mansa. Mrs Jennifer Sikazwe, the Provincial Coordinator of the ZMB Province of Salesian Cooperators, received the Promises of the Salesian Cooperators. This is a clear sign that this Association will spread far and wide in our countries and do a lot of good for young people. A sincere word of thanks to our Bishop Clement Mulenga SDB, who presided over the Eucharist on 15th and 16th. On the 15th we had the chance to wish him a very happy Golden Birthday, as he turned 50, that day. A sincere word of thanks to the City of Hope Community, to Sr Julienne and the FMA Sisters and to Fr Leszek and his team of organizers who worked very very hard to see that everything went off very well. I am sure Don Bosco would be very pleased with all that we did to honour him. Everyone received a little souvenir – a picture of Don Bosco with the bicentenary prayer.

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Synod on

The Holy Father’s concluding address

ear Beatitudes, Eminences and Excellencies, Dear Brothers and Sisters, ...As I followed the labours of the Synod, I asked myself: What will it mean for the Church to conclude this Synod devoted to the family? Certainly, the Synod was not about settling all the issues having to do with the family, but rather attempting to see them in the light of the Gospel and the Church’s tradition and two-thousandyear history, bringing the joy of hope without falling into a facile repetition of what is obvious or has already been said. Surely it was not about finding exhaustive solutions for all the difficulties and uncertainties which challenge and threaten the family, but rather about seeing these difficulties and uncertainties in the light of the Faith, carefully studying them and confronting them fearlessly, without burying our heads in the sand. It was about urging everyone to appreciate the importance of the institution of the family and of marriage between a man and a woman, based on unity and indissolubility, and valuing it as the fundamental basis of society and human life. It was about listening to and making heard the voices of the families and the Church’s pastors, who came to Rome bearing on their shoulders the burdens and the hopes, the riches and the challenges of families throughout the world. It was about showing the vitality of the Catholic Church, which is not afraid to stir dulled consciences or to soil her hands with lively and frank discussions about the family. It was about trying to view and interpret realities, today’s realities, through God’s eyes, so as to kindle the flame of faith and enlighten people’s hearts in times marked by discouragement, social, economic and moral crisis, and growing pessimism. It was about bearing witness to everyone that, for the Church, the Gospel continues to be a vital source of eternal newness, against all those who would “indoctrinate” it in dead stones to be hurled at others. It was also about laying bare the closed hearts which frequently hide even behind the Church’s teachings or good intentions, in order to sit in the chair of Moses and judge, sometimes with superiority and superficiality, difficult cases and wounded families. It was about making clear that the Church is a Church of

CHURcH TODAY

of Bishops the family

the poor in spirit and of sinners seeking forgiveness, not simply of the righteous and the holy, but rather of those who are righteous and holy precisely when they feel themselves poor sinners. It

was about trying to open up broader horizons, rising above conspiracy theories and blinkered viewpoints, so as to defend and spread the freedom of the children of God, and to transmit the beauty of Christian Newness, at times encrusted in a language which is archaic or simply incomprehensible. In the course of this Synod, the different opinions which were freely expressed – and at times, unfortunately, not in entirely well-meaning ways – certainly led to a rich and lively dialogue; they offered a vivid image of a Church which does not simply “rubberstamp”, but draws from the sources of her faith living waters to refresh parched hearts. And – apart from dogmatic questions clearly defined by the Church’s Magisterium – we have also seen that what seems normal for a bishop on one continent, is considered strange and almost scandalous for a bishop from another; what is considered a violation of a right in one society is an evident and inviolable rule in another; what for some is freedom of conscience is for others simply confusion. Cultures are in fact quite diverse, and each general principle needs to be inculturated, if it is to be respected and applied. The 1985 Synod, which celebrated the twentieth anniversary of the conclusion of the Second Vatican Council, spoke of inculturation as “the intimate transformation of authentic cultural values through their integration in Christianity, and the taking root of Christianity in the various human cultures”. Inculturation does not weaken true values, but demonstrates their true strength and authenticity, since they adapt without changing; indeed they quietly and gradually transform the different cultures. We have seen, also by the richness of our diversity, that the same challenge is ever before us: that of proclaiming the Gospel to the men and women of today, and defending the family from all ideological and individualistic assaults. Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

And without ever falling into the danger of relativism or of demonizing others, we sought to embrace, fully and courageously, the goodness and mercy of God who transcends our every human reckoning and desires only that “all be saved” (cf. 1 Tm 2:4). In this way we wished to experience this Synod in the context of the Extraordinary Year of Mercy which the Church is called to celebrated.

PRIESTLY

Dear Brothers, The Synod experience also made us better realize that the true defenders of doctrine are not those who uphold its letter, but its spirit; not ideas but people; not formulae but the gratuitousness of God’s love and forgiveness. ...God...does not treat us according to our merits or even according to our works but solely according to the boundless generosity of his Mercy... Indeed, it means upholding all the more the laws and commandments which were made for man and not vice versa... In this sense, the necessary human repentance, works and efforts take on a deeper meaning, not as the price of that salvation freely won for us by Christ on the cross, but as a response to the One who loved us first and saved us at the cost of his innocent blood, while we were still sinners... The Church’s first duty is not to hand down condemnations or anathemas, but to proclaim God’s mercy, to call to conversion, and to lead all men and women to salvation in the Lord ... ...In light of all this, and thanks to this time of grace which the Church has experienced in discussing the family, we feel mutually enriched. Many of us have felt the working of the Holy Spirit who is the real protagonist and guide of the Synod. For all of us, the word “family” has a new resonance, so much so that the word itself already evokes the richness of the family’s vocation and the significance of the labours of the Synod. In effect, for the Church to conclude the Synod means to return to our true “journeying together” in bringing to every part of the world, to every diocese, to every community and every situation, the light of the Gospel, the embrace of the Church and the support of God’s mercy! Thank you!

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Fr. Mark Emmanuel Phiri First and final profession: 2006 and 2013 Theology: Nairobi (Kenya) Priestly ordination: 27 June 2015 Parish of origin: Nkhotakota (Don Bosco) Fr. George Emmanuel Phiri First and final profession: 2006 and 2013 Theology: Jerusalem (Israel) Priestly ordination: 27 June 2015 Parish of origin: Lilongwe (Don Bosco)

ORDINATION

HIGHLIGHT Deacon John Musonda sdb

he Salesian world in Zmb Province overwhelmed with joy on 27thJune 2015 at Don Bosco Lilongwe in Malawi over the priestly ordination of two Malawian Salesians. The Provincial, the Salesian confreres and Cooperators from as far as Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe had gathered to celebrate this event. The provincial and archbishop Ziyaye led hundreds of Christian faithful gathered at Don Bosco Lilongwe to witness the ordination to priesthood of Emmanuel Mark Phiri and Emmanuel George Phiri. Our two newly ordained bicentenary priests open the womb of Salesian vocation to priesthood. The Salesians of Don Bosco opened its mission in Malawi 1995. At the moment there are two Salesian presences in Malawi: Lilongwe and Nkhotakota. As a matter of fact Mark and George come from Nkhotakota and Lilongwe respectively. There was excitement befitting the celebration for two reasons: firstly, Jesus gives to the world two more workers into his vineyard to continue the work he began in Don Bosco 200 years ago; and secondly ordination to priesthood has never happened in the history of the Salesian presence in Malawi. The flooded Don Bosco Lilongwe grounds with people was painted blue, the colour that has come to be identified with the Don Bosco Marian Shrine recently consecrated. Parents, relatives and friends of our priests were at hand to give support. Other notables present included the traditional chief of the area, the vicar general and many priests, religious men and women the archdiocese and beyond. We have to acknowledge that the Salesian family was well Our two priest share a lot in common. They are both called Emmanuel Phiri, they began their Salesian formation together in 2004 all through to the priestly ordination (execpt for Theological Studies). We wish to express words of thanks to their parents and formators for the job well done. We can only hope and pray God brings to fruition the good work he began in their lives. Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

ECHO DI TORINO ADMA & SYM “Friends, confreres and young people alike, have been asking: ‘’how did it happen that only the two of you went to Italy? How was the selection criteria? Which qualifications were required?’’ It’s all Grace! That’s all we can say.’’ – Emmanual Mwaba & Joseph Nyondo SDB

he Bicentenary preparations reached the climax with the Associatione di Maria Ausiliatrice (ADMA) congress and the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) in Turin, Italy. The congress started on the 6th August 2015 to 9th August 2015 and the SYM started on the 10th – 16th August 2015. Both activities took place in Turin and Castlenuovo d’Asti. ADMA The ADMA theme which reads: “Hic domus mea inde Gloria mea, dalla casa di Maria alle notre case’’, translated as <<from this house will my glory go forth, from Mary’s house to our homes>>, was centred on the family. After three days of listening to reports, testimonies and various experiences, the Rector Major shares with the salesian

family some objectives and points of reference. The Salesian family is in tune with the church in giving a particular attention to the family as original subject of education and first place of evangelization. With eyes fixed on Jesus’s face, under the guidance of Mary Help of Christians, being on our father Don Bosco’s footsteps, the Rector Major believes that the congress represents a moment of grace for the salesian family to proclaim “the Gospel of Family’’, re-proposing its beauty, role and dignity. Looking closely the fatherhood of Don Bosco which was exhibited in the first oratory through family spirit, we shall experience a growth of a more clear and solid identity. The Rector Major re-proposes that we give concreteness to what the identity chart of the salesian family says on its number 16: “A particular attention is given to the family, place for the first humanization destined to prepare the young to love and to the welcoming of life, first school of solidarity among peoples and the people. We are all called to guarantee its dignity and firmness to become, more and more evidently, a small <<domestic church>>’’. From Mary’s house to our homes We must strive to bring the scent of a new humanity, the breath of the Spirit that makes everything new, creating in the groups of the salesian family and in the families a network of authentic relationships, of joint responsibility, of a communion inspired by the family spirit of Don Bosco. Reason becomes ‘dialogue’: dialogue is missing in many families. Family relationships can burn with love when everyone communicates truth, showing strengths without hiding the flaws. In Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis declares that: “the family is where we learn

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DB 200

Every afternoon of the SYM were marked by itineraries as follows: (1) Story of Don Bosco and Valdocco (2) Salesian Mission today (oratory of Valdocco), (3) the local Church of Turin and (4) Saints engaged in Social and Charitable mission.

to live with others despite our differences’’. Don Bosco always recognized the great values that he had drawn from his family. The authority of the parental role is the manifestation of the exercise of dialogue. A perfect family does not exist. The family where we keep loving one another despite our limits and sins, becomes a school of forgiveness. Religion becomes ‘Presence of God’: the wind of the Spirit blowing from the house of Mary makes our homes and communities an upper room, where the practice of prayer is the real glue that hardens and heals family relationships. Prayer is a fundamental form of communication, expression of the religious dimension of our faith, made of love of God and neighbor. The reading of sacred scriptures, the recitation of the Rosary in family. These express the family as a domestic church. The presence of God is also experienced in the practice of mutual love and in the dialogue between husband and wife, between parents and children, brothers and sisters, between grandparents and grandchildren, between relatives and friends. The peak and source of the path of communion is the Eucharistic celebration where families gather around the altar as a great family of God which is the Church. The Rector Major emphasized on the need of Youth Ministry and Family Ministry. Through this we can identify new ways and common strategies to support parents in their educational commitment. He further invited couples and families to renew the grace of their marriage, living the call to holiness as Christian spouses, as families animated by the Gospel and the Salesian charisma. To achieve this, he said, requires a missionary conversion. The crisis of faith and the absence of God has produced the crisis of marriage, of the family and of the transmission of the faith to new generations.

Like Don Bosco, the salesian family gathered in Turin reflected on being a disciple and a witness. Salesian youth ministry promotes the three threads that emerge from the image of Christian life; to meet Christ, to be his disciple and to be sent on a mission. Like Don Bosco we want to meet Christ, be his disciple and be sent on a mission. Discipleship also entails being a witness. Being a witness is a sign of authenticity for Christian life and evangelization. Being a witness entails charity and care for those in need. With the Young, reflecting on Education and Accompaniment, we are reminded that our vocation requires an answer of a person available to come back to young people because it is where the Lord calls and waits for us. Young people are our land of mission. The accompaniment is important because it means being next to each person. Presence among the young help each youth to discover the presence of God in the daily actions, helping him/her to understand positively the situations that he/she lives. The Salesian educational praxis expresses itself in the care for the daily life, the concrete loyalty to the engagements of studying, working, praying; in relationships of trust, kindness, pleasantness, relying on the perspective of holiness upon which everyone is called. For the Young, balancing on Mission and Vocation, for the young reminds of the urgency of the evangelizing mission, invites to go forth with a missionary spirit, pushes towards the ‘’existential peripheries’’ of the young. It adds value to strength of every vocation because ‘’ I’m a mission on this earth’’. As a result we start to see all around us, nurses, teachers, politicians with soul, people who have chosen deep down to be with others and for others(EG, 273).

- Bro. Joseph Nyondo sdb

Salesian Youth Movement The SYM was centered on the strenna “Like Don Bosco, With the Young, For the Young.” It was four intensive days of reflection, testimonies, reconciliation and celebrations.

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SPIRITUAL WeLLBeING

ROAD TO TWO ARE BETTER THAN ONE EMMAUS

Fr. Eustace Siame sdb

“N

ow that very day two of them were going to a village seven miles from Jerusalem…”(Luke 24:13). Cleopas and his companion understood that you cannot walk alone (If we are to go by Liverpool mantra). They wanted to share the frustrations together. They wanted to face the seemingly desperate future together. So they set on this journey as a community. Cleopas knew that two are better than one (Ecclesiastes 4.9) and that our lives become exciting and meaningful only when we walk together. This has been the trend even among pagan thinkers. Among others we have Aristotle (+324), a philosopher who understood man as a relational being flowing from his being social. Since man is a social being he cannot but relate to the other to achieve the end for which s/he was created. As a loner I will never achieve much apart from vice. That’s why Aristotle says outside the social environment, the environment of interaction a human being is a brute. On the road to Emmaus we learn from Cleopas that in order to reach Emmaus – our goal, our destiny in life we need a companion, we need someone with a similar thought pertain, someone we can converse and debate with. The danger we face in our time is that we get companions not for conversing and debating. They have more of aggressive negative influence than helping influence. With such companions we don’t grow toward our goal. We remain in one place. The word companion comes from two Latin words – Com (Together with) and Panis (Bread) and old French adopted it as compaignon to mean one who breaks bread with another. This was the meaning adopted in the old English as it came to us as companion. You can only eat with someone who shares your vision of life. At the same time when we eat we are aiming at growth and good health. Therefore it is important to check the type of bread we share with the other. That is why our companion must be of a like mind. The Bemba word for neighbour fits well here: UMWINA MUPALAMANO (ONE WHO THINKS LIKE YOU). So there are three words in that long word UMWINA(BELONGING TO) MUPALA (ALIKE) MANO (THINKING/MIND). One who has a similar mind of yours, one who is traveling towards the same meaningful direction should be the companion. Do you have such a companion or you are travelling alone in the midst of a crowd?

| Salesian Newslink, ZMB

Bicentenary Youth Rally T

Fr. Diravya Rupen sdb & he uproar of joy and happiness blending with the holy noise of youthfulness Sr. Chanda Nsofwa fma filled those days of youth rally in the Salesian vice province of Zambia. The sacred and spiritual ambience balanced with the secular activities boosted the young blood these days of the youth rally. This massive youth rally housed 900 people (inclusive of 700 youths) hailing from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and Namibia under the same roof from 3 to 7 July 2015. This was the combined venture of SDB (ZMB vice province) and FMA (AFM province) under the leadership of Fr. Vincent Tembo SDB and Sr. Constance Chanda FMA. City of Hope, Lusaka – Zambia (Community of Salesian sisters), the venue for the youth rally, was bubbling with Don Bosco’s spirit, when 67 and more Salesians (includes priests, sisters, deacons and young brothers) with 31 Novices and aspirants (SDB & FMA) lovingly mingled with the real youths of Africa. On the day of arrival, on 3rd July 2015, the youths from all the 19 delegations presented a programme each during the opening ceremony of the youth rally. The colourful and cultural elements of mother Africa clearly emerged in their presentations. In the Inaugural Mass on 4th July, which was presided over by Fr. George Chalissery SDB, the provincial, ZMB, the youngsters participated actively. Sr. Rysarda Piejko FMA read the opening remarks by Sr. Julienne Munyemba FMA, the provincial AFM. Animation talks on various topics like “Don Bosco and the Church” by Fr. Alphoncious Hamweete SDB, “ the role of the youth in the Church” by Fr. Musonda Kaputula, a diocesan priest (Kasama Archdiocese), “our Christian calling and the call to religious life” by Sr. Mulenga Florence FMA and Mrs Veronica Pepala and “Media & Youth” by Fr. Diravya Rupen SDB enlightened the faith and life of the youth gathered.

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DB 200 Some special moments of enrichment during youth rally were as follows. • The Eucahristic Adoration animated by Deacon Simbarashe Muza sdb on the cool evening of Monday, 4 July 2015, made every participant to feel the warmth of the presence of God. • The pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine was on Sunday, 5 July 2015. Fr. Louis Malama SDB before flagging off the prayerful journey, stood on top of a vehicle and explained the meaning of the pilgrimage. It was amazing to see the joyful multitude of young people on the streets of Lusaka, carrying their painted Banners of Don Bosco and singing with drums. The people in vehicles and those on foot stopped to look at what was happening on that Sunday morning. Upon arrival at the Shrine, the youth were prepared for confession by Fr. Michael Mbandama sdb and many received the sacrament of reconciliation with fervent heart. Thereafter we had Mass, which was presided over by Fr. Charles Mukuka, a Fransciscan priest. • In the evening of 5th July ‘DB Quiz’ was conducted with the aim of testing the knowledge of our youth on Don Bosco. • ‘Q & A Open Forum’ tried to help the youths to walk their journey of faith. A panel inclusive of a priest, a sister, a Salesian Co-operator, a past pupil and a lay person answered the questions. Even after that many youths flocked around the religious for vocational guidance and for clarifying life matters. • The trophies and prizes which were given to different delegations for sports, games, talent competition, Don Bosco quiz and banner competition became great incentives for enlivening their youthfulness. • The vocation desk set up by Deacon John Musonda sdb served the aspiring youths to trace God’s Call in their life. • The closing Mass on Monday 7 July by the new priests, Frs. Mark Emmanuel Phiri, George Emmanuel Phiri and Alphoncious Hamweete inspired many young souls. “I was happy meeting so many new friends and I learned more about Don Bosco,” said Tiffany from Zimbabwe. Kopiwe from Zambia said, “I came with lots of unanswered questions about life, but this youth rally brought me the realization that God is in control of everything and so, I need not worry at all.” Fabiano Fidelis Nyirenda from Malawi said, “I enjoyed all the talks, activities... Especially the pilgrimage was meaningful and brought abundant blessing to me.” “My faith has increased and I have become a better catholic…” said Philani Ngwenya (Hwange, Zimbabwe). This youth rally truly touched the deepest aspirations of young people and enriched their faith. It helped them to grow in relationship and to extend their friendship. More so it paved way for them to get rooted in Don Bosco’s spirituality.

| Salesian Newslink, ZMB

logo & moto

jUBILEE yEAR oF mERCY

he logo and the motto together provide a fitting summary of what the Jubilee Year is all about. The motto Merciful Like the Father(taken from the Gospel of Luke, 6:36) serves as an invitation to follow the merciful example of the Father who asks us not to judge or condemn but to forgive and to give love and forgiveness without measure (cfr. Lk 6:37-38). The logo – the work of Jesuit Father Marko I. Rupnik – presents a small summa theologiae of the theme of mercy. In fact, it represents an image quite important to the early Church: that of the Son having taken upon his shoulders the lost soul demonstrating that it is the love of Christ that brings to completion the mystery of his incarnation culminating in redemption. The logo has been designed in such a way so as to express the profound way in which the Good Shepherd touches the flesh of humanity and does so with a love with the power to change one’s life. One particular feature worthy of note is that while the Good Shepherd, in his great mercy, takes humanity upon himself, his eyes are merged with those of man. Christ sees with the eyes of Adam, and Adam with the eyes of Christ. Every person discovers in Christ, the new Adam, one’s own humanity and the future that lies ahead, contemplating, in his gaze, the love of the Father. The scene is captured within the so called mandorla (the shape of an almond), a figure quite important in early and medieval iconography, for it calls to mind the two natures of Christ, divine and human. The three concentric ovals, with colors progressively lighter as we move outward, suggest the movement of Christ who carries humanity out of the night of sin and death. Conversely, the depth of the darker color suggests the impenetrability of the love of the Father who forgives all. Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

FeATURe ARTIcLe

PASTORAL CARE OF THE

PLANET

Fr. Lazar Arasu sdb

Salesian Missionary in Uganda

n Church’s slowness in reacting on vital matters of life the Canadian theologian Bernard Lonergan once said, “The Church often arrives a little breathless and a little late.” On 18th June Pope Francis has published an encyclical on the pastoral care of the planet, Laudato Si: On the Care of our Common Home, in Latin it means “Praised be to you.” These words are taken from the famous ‘Hymn to the Universe: Canticle of the Sun’ written by St. Francis of Assisi in 1224. Pope Francis chose the patron of Nature, who called the sun, the brother and moon, the sister as the patron of his Pontificate. Days before publishing this much awaited document the pope said, “I invite you to accompany this event with a renewed attention to the situation of environmental degradation, but also of recovery, in its territories,” He continued, “This Encyclical is addressed to all: let us pray so that all may receive its message and grow in the responsibility towards the common home that God has entrusted to all.” Pope Francis’ two predecessors had much to say on the subject. Pope John Paul II spoke in 2001 of humanity’s need for an “ecological conversion”, while Pope Benedict XVI’s regular utterances on the subject were so common that he was dubbed “the green pope”. But Pope Francis has dedicated an entire encyclical on Nature. By devoting an entire encyclical to humanity’s troubled relationship with God’s creation, Pope Francis is breaking with precedent. Encyclical is a long letter from the Pope circulated among the Catholic faithful for study and reflection. Though circulating encyclical is an ancient practice of the Papacy, in the past one hundred years, it is addressed to “All People of Goodwill”. Indeed Laudato Sii, deals with an universal concern. We are all aware of all the environmental degradation done by all people, rich and poor, wealthy nations as well as the poorer ones. Destruction of Nature and abuse of environment have detrimental effect on humanity’s life and well being. Now the religious leaders are making the eleventh hour’s calling appealing through religious motivations to care for the earth. We are polluting the planet, strip-mining its resources, creating megalandfills, pouring carbon dangerously into the atmosphere, causing the disappearance of thousands of species, creating bad air and bad water, and thinning the ozone layer. This human document of the pope seems to be saying: live more simply, use fewer resources, lessen your carbon footprint, and try to recycle whatever you’ve used as much as you can.

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In the name of development, we cut down countless trees, thus creating a desert. The sharp increase of cancer patients show that we are causing destruction on ourselves. We often tend to pay attention to the problems that are visible such as poor roads and lack of other infrastructure. But we are least bothered about things that are hidden or that kills our people silently, slowly but steadily. Let us read this encyclical and pay attention to the Pope. In addressing the issue of environment he goes beyond our religious beliefs.

In Laudato Sii, Pope Francis says, Ecological crisis and social crisis are but the same thing. Ecological crisis is essentially a spiritual crisis which leads people to think of his own individual needs and happiness without thinking of other people, that is one’s personal good is viewed as more important and arbitrary to common good. This leads to a clear understanding on how theology and ecology are related: human life is founded on relationship between man with God, with neighbour and with the earth, the material world.

Pope Francis is good at making pithy saying. In an audience a few months ago he said, “people occasionally forgive but nature never does”, suggested that the environment would be a safe bet as the focus for a major encyclical. His time for publishing this encyclical is no coincidence. Pope Francis has publicly stated that he wants the world to take note of its content before the crucial make or break United Nation’s Climate Change Summit in Paris this December. His intervention will be music to the ears of Catholic bishops in parts of the world already suffering from environmental degradation.

Going against ecology/nature constitutes an ecological sin which is not only against God but also against neighbour. As Christians (and more so as human beings) we are called to nurture in us ecological ascetism, meaning simple life and living within available means. This kind of ascetism leads us beyond ourself and places us in full unity and interdependent amongst ourselves as human beings and creation just as we have a common (the same) Creator.

Church wants to believe that “an assault on nature which is sinful and contrary to the teachings of our faith”. Laudato Sii repeatedly pope’s repeated call for change of heart and change in our life style that will bring a change in climate change. It is call to reduce our appetite for material things, unlimited consumption of resources, abuse of mother nature and over use of technology.

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HIGHLIGHT

PERPETUAL PROFESSION

Fr. George Chalissery emphasised in the homily during the perpetual profession of Alexio Mesi and David Njolo Yamikani , “Lifelong fidelity is lived by daily fidelity.” The Salesian provincial house of ZMB vice province in Lusaka – Zambia hosted perpetual profession of Alexio and David, August 01st2015. Fr. George (provincial) led the Salesian family and family members of our two brothers travelled as far Malawi and Zimbabwe to witness the profession.

Symbols: ‘Cross with emblem of the good shepherd’ symbolises resurrection and life of Jesus Christ while reminding each one of us of our pastoral commitment. ‘Lit Candle’ symbolises Christ who is the light of the world; thus calling us to be the same light for the world

Alexio Mesi Nationality: Zimbabwe Born: 19 February 1985 First Profession: 06 August 2006 Perpetual Profession: 01 August 2015

David Njolo Nationality: Malawi Born: 16 June 1987 First Profession: 10 August 2015 Perpetual Profession: 01 August 2015

Both Alexio and David are in Kenya for their theological studies (3rd Year) at the Salesian Theological College in Nairobi alias Don Bosco Utume in August.

-Deacon John Musonda sdb

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COmPLemeNTARITy

Women’s cultures: between equality and difference

Sr. Chanda Nsofwa fma The Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Council for Culture (From 4th to 7th February 2015 ) Pope Francis, during the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Council for Culture under the theme: “Women’s cultures: between equality and difference” reiterated the importance of finding “criteria and new ways to enable women to no longer feel like guests, but instead to be full participants in the various areas of social and ecclesial life”. “The Church is a woman, she is female!” he exclaimed. “This is a challenge that cannot be deferred. I say this to the pastors of Christian communities, here representing the universal Church, but also to lay women and men engaged in different ways in culture, education, the economy, politics, the world of work, families, and religious institutions”, he continued, offering an “itinerary” and a series of “guidelines to develop this effort throughout the world, in the heart of all cultures, in dialogue with the various religious affiliations”.

“Between equality and difference: the quest for an equilibrium”

With reference to the first theme considered in the Plenary Assembly, “Between equality and difference: the quest for an equilibrium”, Pope Francis remarked that this equilibrium must be harmonious, not merely a question of balance. “This aspect must not be faced ideologically, because the ‘lens’ of ideology prevents us from seeing reality clearly. Equality and difference of women – like that of men – is best perceived from the perspective of ‘with’, in relation to, rather than ‘against’. We have long left behind, at least in western societies, the model of the social subordination of women to men, a centuries-old model whose negative effects are nonetheless not yet fully spent. Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

We have also left behind a second model, that of parity, pure and simple, applied mechanically, and of absolute equality. A new paradigm has thus taken shape, that of reciprocity in equivalence and in difference. The relationship between man and woman, therefore, must recognize that both are necessary inasmuch as they possess an identical nature but different modalities. One is necessary to the other, since the fullness of the person is thus truly achieved”.

sold on various markets”. “I wish to draw attention, in this respect, to the suffering of many poor women, forced to live in conditions of danger and exploitation, relegated to the margins of society and rendered victims of a throwaway culture”, stressed the Holy Father.

“Women and religion: flight or new forms of participation in the life of the Church?”

The fourth theme, “Women and religion: flight or new forms of participation in the life of the “Generativity’ as a symbolic code” The second theme, “‘generativity’ as a symbolic code”, Church?” is of particular relevance to believers. The Pope reiterated his conviction that it is broadens the horizons of urgent to “offer space to women in the life of biological maternity to the Church and to welcome them, bearing include the transmission in mind the specific features and changes and the protection of life. in cultural and social sensibilities. A more It may be summarized in capillary and incisive female presence four verbs: to wish for, to within the Church is desirable, so that we bring into the world, to can see many women involved in pastoral care for, and to let go. responsibilities and in accompanying The Pope acknowledges individuals, families and groups, as well as the contribution in this in theological reflection”. area of the many women who work in the family, The indispensable role of women in in the field of education in faith, in pastoral the family activity, in education Finally, the Holy Father spoke about in schools, and also the indispensable role of women in the in social, cultural and family, and highlighted the importance of economic structures. “encouraging and promoting the effective presence of women in many areas of the “You, women, know public sphere, in the world of work and in how to embody the places where the most important decisions tender face of God, His are taken”, without prejudice to their role in mercy, which translates into willingness to offer time the private domain. rather than occupy space, to accommodate rather than exclude. In this sense, I like to describe the feminine “We must not leave women to bear these burdens dimension of the Church as a welcoming womb for the and take all these decisions alone; all institutions, regeneration of life”. including the ecclesial community, must guarantee freedom of choice for women, so that they have “The female body: between culture and the opportunity to assume social and ecclesial responsibilities, in harmony with family life”. biology” “The female body: between culture and biology”, the third point for reflection, “reminds us of the beauty and harmony of the body God gave to women, but also the painful wounds inflicted upon them, often with brutal violence, for the mere fact of being women. A symbol of life, the female body is unfortunately not infrequently attacked and disfigured by those who ought instead to be its protectors and companions in life. The many forms of enslavement, commodification and mutilation of women’s bodies require us to work to defeat this form of degradation that reduces them to mere objects to be | Salesian Newslink, ZMB

RefLecTION Br. Andrew Chishimba

DE SI R

“Let anyone who thirsts come to me and drink…” (John 7:3739)

SE NC E

God created us for union with him. God desires to remain in us. When we too desire God, then flowers the union. The intensity of one’s desire for God shows the intensity of one’s prayer. The more we desire God, the more intense our prayer is. In prayer it is not so much the length of time that is important, but the intensity of desire.

OF PR AY E

God’s heart is always open and God is eager to shower the graces upon us. But the problem lies with us. Do we desire God? What is needed here is persevearance. The prayer should be intense and persevering, but need not be so long (Mt 6:7-8). When one has an intense desire for God, even the prayer on the spur of the moment becomes more effective. Even during tough times of heavy work, the intense desire for God will push us to pray. Even while walking, driving or waiting for someone, we can be always praying like a person who is thirsty seeking for water.

What is more needed is to prepare our hearts for the seed of God’s word, by freeing ourselves from self-will, self interest and self love. Then finding God is not a big deal, even in the market place. Intense desire for God alone can help us reach God and that is the true essence of prayer.

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Fr Peter Gozdalski SDB

HIGHLIGHT

25 YEARS OF PRIESTLY COMMITMENT Fr Peter Gozdalski SDB Visited ZMB from 13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 16 October. He was extended a warm welcome. This gave us also an opportunity to felicitate him on the Silver Jubilee of his ordination. On the 15th October we had a small gathering of confreres to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of his Priesthood. The Holy Eucharist was Celebrated, followed by Supper. On behalf of all of all the confreres of ZMB Vice Province Fr George Chalissery SDB, the provincial wishes Fr Peter Gozdalski many more happy years of Salesian Priestly life.

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Mrs Regina M. Chitunda

KNOW YOUR

FAITH

cATecHeTIcAL cORNeR

This is the first of the many episodes which we hope you, our readers, will as with all other articles in this magazine, enjoy reading. This column’s objective is to educate and nurture the faith of the lay faithful in matters of the Catholic faith.

very well-meaning Catholic and all those who want to be in full communion with the Church will appreciate the need for the information this corner will provide so that as St Peter says: they should be ready to explain the reason for their hope (1 Pt 3:15). The exodus of Christians from the Catholic Church especially by the youth is attributed partly to lack of or partial knowledge of our rich Catholic Tradition (written and oral). There are many aspects of our faith that need revisiting by both ‘old’ and ‘new’ Catholics. You don’t have to leave the Church or perish because of lack of knowledge.

So What is Catechesis? Catechesis, coming from the Greek word katecheim means to echo, resound the good news of our salvation. It means to pass on the tradition of the Church. This can be oral or written tradition, Dei Verbum (DV) a Vatican II document on Divine Revelation tells us that “sacred scripture and sacred tradition make up a single deposit of faith (DV 10). This means that the written (scripture) and oral (by word of mouth) is recognised by the Magisterium (the teaching authority of the Church) as an authentic single source of revelation. “Catechesis is nothing other than the process of transmitting the Gospel, as the Christian community has received it, understands it, celebrates it, lives it and communicates it in many ways” (General Directory of Catechesis, GDC 105). Catechesis announces God’s message and produces a faith commitment in the recipient. Its main objective is to lead people into communion and intimacy with Christ. (GDC 80). So, any evangelising efforts that the Church makes to promote communion with Jesus Christ and to make disciples of all nations, Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

is catechesis.

properly formed help in parishes to form people (new in faith) so that they can be initiated into the Catholic Church or those already in the Church to nurture their faith and to answer the many questions that they ask about our faith. So when the lay faithful proclaim the good news to others through words and witness and if they are able to lead people to Christ in this manner, then they, too, are catechising.

It comes from the Great Commissioning given by Jesus to his disciples: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to all; whoever believes and is baptised will be saved... (Mk 16:15-16; Mt 28:1820). It is from this commissioning that the Church which is apostolic (it has apostolic succession starting from St Peter who was one of the recipients of the great commissioning to Pope Francis), picks Catechesis transmits the four pillars of our faith: The up its mission. Catechesis then Creed; the sacraments; the becomes the mainstay of the commandments; Prayer (the Church. Through catechesis, ‘Our Father’). All these are people are initiated into the transmitted in their ‘unpacked’ Church after having been form. instructed thoroughly in all tenets of our faith. The main source of catechesis is the word of Catechesis, as we have seen is God. “Scripture provides the the teaching of the faith of the starting point, foundation Church. The bishops are the and norm of Catechetical chief catechists (catechists per teaching” (Pontifical Biblical excellence) in the dioceses for Commission). Other sources they are the custodians of the are the Documents of the faith. This role however, has Church: Catechism of the been rolled out to the priests, Catholic Church; Vatican II deacons and catechists (representative trained lay Documents; Apostolic Exhortations; Papa Encyclicals; faithful). Those baptised share in the Priestly (non General Directory of Catechesis all as taught by the ordained), Kingly and Prophetic offices of Christ Magisterium (our Popes and Bishops). here on earth, so they have the mandate and right to catechise: informally such as parents teaching the basics of our faith to their children (teaching them The next episode in the next edition of the magazine will simple traditional prayers which Pope Francis in his start discussing the Sacraments through which we become full message at the 49th World Communications Day, members of the Church and also experience the love of God refers to as “the most basic form of communication”) through Christ Jesus. Look out for it. Stay blessed. and through witness of their lives to the children as well as to the world; or formally when those who are

For Next Issue...

THINKTRIBUTE THINKTRIBUTE

THINKTRIBUTE Contribute Your Thinking for Clarity

In the context of mushrooming of many churches, Catholics are not so stanch in following the faith that is professed. Why do many Catholics (esp. the young people) change the denomination? It is YOUR PAGE. Send your analysis either by e-mail or whatsapp. Denote your name, place & qualification with your answer. Best analysis will be published. E-mail ID: munirupenmission@gmail.com Whatsapp: +260 972831224

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THINKTRIBUTE

Contribute Your Thinking for Clarity

Is Our God Selfish? The first three of the Ten Commandments is demanding focus only to Godself. Loving God is projected as the greatest commandment in the Holy Bible. The Human Beings are created to love Him and serve Him alone. Is this not a height of selfishness? Bro. Christopher joseph Xavier SDB, India

Melchizedek, Hwange, Zimbabwe

This seems to be a valid logical argument. It is expressed in the Bible explicitly. Our catechism too insists that God should be in the first place of our love list.

Though God created us for himself, he gives us free will. He does not impose himself on us. His first three commandments are meant for us. In serving him we get ‘fulfilment.’ In doing so, we are not consumed by unending urges. In doing so, we acknowledge that our God becomes our all.

However, a simple fact is forgotten here. It is true that God wants to be in the prime place in our hearts. If not God, who can replace God? In other words, what’s wrong if God wants us to have loving and serving Him as our meaning of living? God is the supreme good that a human can attain. He is the Summum Bonnum. God wants everyone to obtain this supreme goodness who is none other than Himself. Hence nothing can be equalized with loving God for God is Love. Moreover, God expects us to love Him but never enforces us to do so. The greatness of God is that He allows even the atheists and agnostics to express their view in the world. This is the supreme form of goodness we are talking about here. Thus love of God is not a selfish desire but a desire for the good of the human beings.

The ten commandments are meant largely for us than for him because, we need to note that, we say in one of our Eucharistic prayers “our act of praise and worship add nothing to your greatness…” So God doesn’t need you and me to be recognized as God. Being God is the nature and the identity.

Martha Mwale, Lusaka (Studying in India)

Mariot, Lusaka (Studying in India) No. God is not selfish because God gives us freedom and when we go away from Him, He still loves us and forgives us and accepts us. He never ever recalls our iniquities and sinfulness.

Definition of Selfish: Lacking Consideration for other people; concerned with one’s own personal profit or pleasure. God created us and endowed us with lot of blessings. How am I going to repay the Lord for his goodness to me? The question we should ask here is, ‘Is God’s desire for glory a selfish desire?’

Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

HOLINeSS

he Church in Southern Africa is rejoicing. On Sunday, September 13, at a colorful Mass in his home town of Tshitanini, Thohoyandou, in the Limpopo province of South Africa, Tshimangadzo Samuel Benedict Daswa was officially declared “Blessed.” Murdered in 1990 at the age of 43 for rejecting witchcraft, he is the first South African to be officially recognized by the Church as a martyr for the Faith. Cardinal Angelo Amato, SDB, prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, Cardinal Wilfrid Napier of Durban, Archbishop Stephen Brislin of Cape Town, and Bishop Joao Rodrigues of Tzaneen led other bishops, clergy, and the faithful in the beatification ceremony. Daswa’s eight children and elderly mother were in attendance. Benedict Daswa was brutally murdered on the 2nd February 1990, a day on which President FW de Klerk announced the release of Nelson Mandela was released. He was driving home and found the road blocked with stones and logs. The mob began stoning the car he was driving and injured him. The bleeding Daswa escaped on foot and found a house to hide him, but eventually the owner of the house, fearing for her safety, revealed his whereabouts to the mob. Having found Daswa, the violent crowd sang and chanted while taunting him, beat him up with clubs, poured boiling water on him, and left him dead. His final words, reportedly, echoed those of Christ on the Cross: “God, into your hands receive my spirit.” The opponent of their witchcraft beliefs was dead. He had said that, as a Catholic, he could not accept the power of witchcraft nor the attacks of witch-hunt. For that, the Church has recognised him as a Blessed Martyr. Daswa was born on the 16th June 1946 in Mbahe, 20km from Thohoyandou, a firstborn son of the late Tshililo Petrus Daswa (Bakali) and Thidziambi Ida DASWA (Gundula) who is still alive. He was named “Tshimangadzo” (one with miracles) and Samuel when he went to school. Just as GOD said to Samuel of the Old Testament, “Listen carefully. I’m getting ready to do something in Israel that is going to shake everyone up and get their attention” (1 Samuel 3:11), Daswa shook his community. He stood against the most feared witchcraft. This cost him his life. The Church has now pronounced him as part of the “great cloud of witnesses surrounding us” (Hebrews 12:1) . His martyrdom did not come out of the blue. He led a holy life. He was a diligent worker, a good family man, an industrious educator, an active layman, an avid sportsman, an involved community leader, a man of charity and, above all, a person of deep prayer and spirituality. In short, he lived well and died holy; killed for life.

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SALESIAN NEWS

14th CIVAM Meeting The meeting of the Provincials began on 20th October. Fr Americo, the Regional presented a brief report of his impression on the Region. He highlighted both positive elements and some challenges which are faced in the region. The Provincials and the Delegates, shared about the situation and plans of each Province and also on the conclusion of the bicentenary celebrations. The whole of Africa will reap many fruits from these celebrations in terms of an increase in vocations to the Salesian life. On Thursday, 22nd October, Fr Francesco Cereda, the Vicar of the Rector Major and Fr Saimy Ezhanikatt, his secretary, met the provincials and talked about the disciplinary issues and how to handle them if they arise in our Provinces. The importance of being one congregation united under Don Bosco and our constitution was insisted. The religious dimension of our vocation should be revered much than being a priest or brother and so the ‘Salesian’ characteristic of our life should be upheld. Fr Cereda also underlined the importance of the daily meditation and our own personal prayer. We need to be men of God who live a simple life-style and are willing to share with others whatever we have. ‘Redimensioning’ our communities was insisted. If we do not have sufficient personnel, we could also entrust our ministry to the

laity. Through that the danger of individualism and sectorialism could be tackled. Care must also be taken to see that our work must be primarily for the poor youth who are on the ‘peripheries.’.

ZMB

should not take it on themselves to bypass this process. This tendency has landed some provinces into difficulty.

The need to be transparent and accountable in all our financial The Provinces must take immediate dealings was insisted. All were action when there are cases of encouraged to work towards infidelities e.g. absence from the having our accounts audited. religious community without due permission, not being attentive to prayer life or to the observance of Regional Congress of the vows etc.

Salesian Cooperators

Provincial Economers Meeting Provincial Economers Meeting was from 19 – 21 October in BOSCO, Johannesburg. Bro. Walter was in the meeting with most of the economers from all the Provinces of Africa. Bro. Jean Paul Muller, Fr Peter Gozdalski and Mr Janko Jochimsen animated the meeting. On 21st Wednesday, the provincials and the Provincial Economers were together in which they discussed the topics of interest and concern in the provinces and in the Congregation. Bro. Jean Paul Muller said that if we were to live according to the Constitutions, then we would not find ourselves in many difficulties even with regard to finances. He reminded the need to improve the quality of our ministry to the young. We need to be less managers, and be more present with the young ‘in the courtyard’. Many of our troubles arise from lack of clarity with regard to decision making. There are some who are responsible for decision making. The others

The First Regional Congress of Salesian Cooperators took place in Addis Abeba from 10 13 September 2015, under the leadership of the World Delegates Fr Giuseppe Casti SDB and Sr Lesley Sandigo FMA and Mrs Naomi Bertola, the World Coordinator. Fr Americo Chaquisse our Regional, was present. Fr Leszek represented ZMB. All the representatives of the Salesian Cooperators of the Salesian Provinces of Africa met to discuss the present reality of the presence of the Salesian Cooperators in Africa and looked forward to the future of this Association. They discussed how better to coordinate the vast region of Africa and how to implement the new “Project of Apostolic Life.” They decided to set up 2 Zones in Africa, to improve the coordination, animation and collaboration with the Cooperator’s World Centre in Rome. Mrs Jennifer Sikazwe, the provincial coordinator of ZMB was chosen as the one responsible for formation and Mrs Irene Simasiku was chosen as the zone bursar. Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

New Provincial of FMA, AFM Province Sr Marie Claire Jean FMA was appointed by the Mother General as the new FMA Provincial of the AFM Province (South Africa, Zambia and Lesotho), of Our Lady of Peace. She comes from Haiti, and has just completed her term as provincial there. We congratulate her and welcome her warmly and wish her a very happy ministry of leadership of the FMA Province in this part of Africa.

D B Tech Africa

Fr Ivo Coelho, our General Councillor for Formation and Fr Chris Saldanha SDB, from the Formation Sector, paid a visit to the Formation communities of Makeni and Chingola from 19 – 21 October 2015.

Fr George Tharaniyil presented the plan for “D B Tech Africa,” the project that was approved by the provincials of African provinces last year. The Provincials approved the logo and the official name of this venture – DON BOSCO TECH AFRICA. This will be registered in Kenya as a NGO. The provincials approved the Constitutions of Don Bosco Tech Africa. PREPARATION TOWARDS FINAL COMMITMENT The preparatory course for the perpetual profession was held in the month of July, 2015 at Utume Theological College, Nairobi. Irvin, Gabriel, Vernon and Joachim from Zmb province attended. Chisomo,the zmb missionary to South-Sudan was also present. Gabriel and Irvin are in Nairobi for their second year of theology. Vernon and Joachim are in Jerusalem and Rome respectively to continue their theological studies. Let us support them by our prayers as they prepare themselves to give life time commitment to religious life as sons of Don Bosco.

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RETREAT& QUINQUENNIUM Fr Richard Ebejer SDB preached the First retreat from 1-7 Sdeptember 2015. He also animated the Quinquennium meeting. He challenged the salesians to be more authentic sons of Don Bosco. The second retreat was preached by Fr Julien Jackers SDB from 14 - 20 September 2015 . A word of appreciation for their animating presence in the province of ZMB

Photo Social Communication Department 3 October 2015

Box 31148 - Lusaka | Zambia communication@salesianzmb.org

DL Youth Day was well organized for the whole diocese of Lusaka. Thousands of youths gathered in the pope’s square to celebrate their day. It was well animated on the theme of “Blessed are the pure in Heart for they shall see God.” A word of appreciation to Fr. Andrew Reut sdb, the Youth coordinator, Archdiocese of Lusaka.

ZMB

9-11 October 2015

alueni concluded the Bicentenary of Don Bosco’s Birth in a very meanigful way. Three days of Youth Rally with the vulnerable children from four orphanages was organized. The Gospel Rap singer MAG 44’s rocking music, Dr. Guy Scott’s presence as the chief guest were the highlights. Salesian Newslink, ZMB |

Prayer of Pope Francis for the Jubilee

You are the visible face of the invisible Father, of the God who manifests his power above all by forgiveness and mercy: let the Church be your visible face in the world, its Lord risen and glorified. You willed that your ministers would also be clothed in weakness in order that they may feel compassion for those in ignorance and error: let everyone who approaches them feel sought after, loved, and forgiven by God. Send your Spirit and consecrate every one of us with its anointing, so that the Jubilee of Mercy may be a year of grace from the Lord, and your Church, with renewed enthusiasm, may bring good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to captives and the oppressed, and restore sight to the blind. We ask this of you, Lord Jesus, through the intercession of Mary, Mother of Mercy; you who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit for ever and ever. Amen.

Newslink, ZMB 34 | SalesianMERCIFUL

LIKE THE FATHER

Lord Jesus Christ, you have taught us to be merciful like the heavenly Father, and have told us that whoever sees you sees Him. Show us your face and we will be saved. Your loving gaze freed Zacchaeus and Matthew from being enslaved by money; the adulteress and Magdalene from seeking happiness only in created things; made Peter weep after his betrayal, and assured Paradise to the repentant thief. Let us hear, as if addressed to each one of us, the words that you spoke to the Samaritan woman: “If you knew the gift of God!”