The profession of Peter
"who do you say that I am?"
Luke 9,18-24
1. Opening prayer
“O Holy Spirit, you who unite my soul to God: move it with ardent desires and enkindle it with the fire of your love. How good you are with me, O Holy Spirit of God: may you be praised and blessed for the great love that you pour out upon me! My God and my Creator, is it ever possible that there would be someone who would not love you? For so long I have not loved you! Forgive me, Lord. O Holy Spirit, grant that my soul may be completely God’s, and that I may serve Him without any personal interest, but only because He is my Father and because He loves me. My God and my all, is there perhaps any other thing that I could possibly desire? Only You would satisfy me. Amen.” (St. Teresa of Jesus)
2. Gospel Reading - Luke 9,18-24
Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, "Who do the crowds say that I am?" They said in reply, "John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, 'One of the ancient prophets has arisen.'" Then he said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter said in reply, "The Messiah of God." He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. He said, "The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised." Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.
3. A moment of prayerful silence
so that the Word of God may penetrate and enlighten our life.
4. Some questions
• We all believe in Jesus. But there are some who understand him in one way and others in another way. Today, which is the more common Jesus in the way of thinking of people?
• How does propaganda interfere in my way of seeing Jesus? What do I do so as not to allow myself to be drawn by the propaganda? What prevents us today from recognizing and assuming the project of Jesus?
• We are waiting for the messiah, each in our own way. What is the messiah that I look for and expect for?
• The requirement to follow Jesus is the cross. How do I react with the cross of my life?
5. For those who wish to go deeper into the theme
• The Gospel today follows the same theme as that of the previous verses: the opinion of the people on Jesus. The previous versese of chapter 9, beginning with Herod, today it is Jesus who asks what do people think, the public opinion and the Apostles respond giving the same opinion which was given yesterday. Immediately follows the first announcement of the Passion, death and Resurrection of Jesus.
• Luke 9, 18: The question of Jesus after his prayer. “One day, while Jesus was praying alone, his disciples came to him and he put this question to them: “Who do the crowds say I am?” In Luke’s Gospel, on several important and decisive occasions, Jesus is presented in prayer: in his Baptism when he assumes his mission (Lk 3, 21); in the 40 days in the desert, when, he overcame the temptations presented by the devil Lk 4, 1-13); the night before choosing the twelve apostles (Lk 6, 12); in the Transfiguration, when, with Moses and Elijah he spoke about his passion in Jerusalem (Lc 9, 29); in the Garden when he suffers his agony (Lk 22, 39-46); on the Cross, when he asks pardon for the soldier (Lk 23, 34) and when he commits his spirit to God (Lk 23, 46).
• Luke 9, 19: The opinion of the people on Jesus. “They answered: “For some John the Baptist; others Elijah, but others think that you are one of the ancient prophets who has risen from the dead”. Like Herod, many thought that John the Baptist had risen in Jesus. It was a common belief that the prophet Elijah had to return (Mt 17, 10-13; Mk 9, 11-12; Ml 3, 23-24; Eclo 48, 10). And all nourished the hope of the coming of the Prophet promised by Moses (Dt 18,15). This was an insufficient response.
• Luke 9, 20: The question of Jesus to the disciples. After having heard the opinion of others, Jesus asks: “And you, who do you say I am?” Peter answers: “The Messiah of God!” Peter recognizes that Jesus is the one whom the people are waiting for and that he comes to fulfil the promise. Luke omits the reaction of Peter who tries to dissuade Jesus to follow the way of the cross and omits also the harsh criticism of Jesus to Peter (Mk 8, 32-33; Mt 16, 22-23).
• Luke 9, 21: The prohibition to reveal that Jesus is the Messiah of God. “Then Jesus gave them strict orders and charged them not to say this to anyone”. It was forbidden to them to reveal to the people that Jesus is the Messiah of God. Why does Jesus prohibit this? At that time, as we have already seen, everybody was expecting the coming of the Messiah, but, each one in his own way: some expected a king, others a priest, others a doctor, a warrior, a judge or a prophet! Nobody seemed to expect the Messiah Servant, announced by Isaiah (Is 42, 1-9). Anyone who insists in maintaining Peter’s idea, that is, of a glorious Messiah, without the cross, understands nothing and will never be able to assume the attitude of a true disciple. He will continue to be blind, exchanging people for trees (cf. Mk 8, 24). Because without the cross it is impossible to understand who Jesus is and what it means to follow Jesus. Because of this, Jesus insists again on the Cross and makes the second announcement of his passion, death and resurrection.
• Luke 9:22-24: Following Jesus. ‘Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.”’ The full understanding of the following of Jesus is not obtained through theoretical instruction, but through practical commitment, walking with him along the way of service, from Galilee to Jerusalem. The way of following is the way of self-giving, of abandonment, of service, of availability, of acceptance of conflict, knowing that there will be resurrection. The cross is not an incidental event, but is rather part of this way, because in a world organized on selfish principles, love and service can only exist as crucified! He or she who makes of his or her life a service to others, disturbs those who live grasping at privileges, and suffers…
6. Prayer: Psalm 1
Happy those who do not follow the counsel of the wicked,
Nor go the way of sinners, nor sit in company with scoffers.
Rather, the law of the LORD is their joy;
God's law they study day and night.
They are like a tree planted near streams of water,
that yields its fruit in season;
Its leaves never wither;
whatever they do prospers.
But not the wicked!
They are like chaff driven by the wind.
Therefore the wicked will not survive judgment,
nor will sinners in the assembly of the just.
The LORD watches over the way of the just,
but the way of the wicked leads to ruin.
7. Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you for your word that we can see better the will of the Father. May your Spirit enlighten our actions and grant us the strength to follow your Word that revealed to us. Make us, like Mary, your mother, not only to listen but also to practice the Word. You who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever. Amen.
Published in
Lectio Divina
138/2009-31-12
New Prior Provincial of the Arago-Valentina Province
The Prior General has confirmed the recent election of Fr. Luis Gallardo Ganuza, O.Carm. as new Prior Provincial of the Arago Valentina Province. Appointments of the Prior General with his Council
During the year 2009 the Prior General with his Council has appointed:General Delegation of France
General Delegate: Fr. Klaus Schenkelberger, O.Carm.
1st Councilor: Fr. Terence Cyr, O.Carm.
2nd Councilor: Fr. Gianfranco Tuveri, O.Carm. General Delegation of the Czech Republic
General Delegate: Fr. Vojtech Kodet, O.Carm.
1st Councilor: Fr. Gorazd Cetkovsky, O.Carm.
2nd Councilor: Fr. Benedikt Krizan, O.Carm. General Delegation Titus Brandsma Colombia
General Delegate: Fr. Juan Evangelista Quiroga Castañeda, O.Carm. Webmaster: Fr. Joseph Hung Tran, O.Carm. (SEL)
137/2009-28-12
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Carpineto Romano, Italy
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Carpineto Romano, Italy, was held 23 December 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Noemi Malagesi, O.Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Elvira Calenne, O.Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Emanuela Migliore, O.Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Paola Ricci, O.Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Agnese Talano, O.Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Elvira Calenne, O.Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Agnese Talano, O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. M. Carla Zinno, O.Carm.
136/2009-26-12
Activities of the General Council
On 17th December last, the regular joint meeting of the General Councils, O.Carm.-O.C.D., took place during the final plenary session this year of our General Council (9-22 December). The meeting took place in the General Curia of our Discalced brethren here in Rome and many items of common interest, past events and future common projects were discussed. It was the first meeting together with the new OCD General Council, presided over by the new General Superior, Fr. Saverio Cannistrá. The meeting took place in a joyful and fraternal atmosphere, with the hope of a growing common understanding and the realization of projects in common. These meetings have taken place regularly over the years in alternative General Curia houses twice a year: the next one will take place in our Curia in May 2010.
From 18th to 20th December the General Council spent some days of study and reflection in the Spirituality Centre "Maria Madre del Carmelo" of the Carmelite Missionary Sisters of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus (SCMTBG) in Focene, Italy. During the meeting the Council reflected on the theme of vocations, starting from selected articles of the Ratio (RIVC), in the hope that this reflection can help vocational animation in different parts of the Order.
135/2009-24-12
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.) 24-12-09 P. Gaspar Mondejar Albaladejo, Arag
Vices Generalis 1995-2001
134/2009-24-12
CHRISTUS NATUS EST NOBIS! VENITE ADOREMUS!
NATALE HILARE ET ANNUM FAUSTUM
25.XII.2009
FERNANDO PRIOR GENERALIS ET DOMUSQUE GENERALIS COMMUNITAS
IMAGE: Jörg Ratgeb (1480-1526), Karmeliterkloster Frankfurt, Germania
133/2009-21-12VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
06-12-09 Br. Thomas Groot-Zwaaftink, Neer
14-12-09 P. Joel Schevers, PCM
132/2009-17-12
Carmelite Priory Restoration in Mdina, Malta, wins prestigious award
The 17th century Carmelite Priory in Mdina, Malta, that offers insights into the life of the Carmelite friars, as well as access to a selection of objets d'art, has emerged as the overall winning project in the 2009 Din L-Art Helwa Architectural Heritage Awards. The project, steered by Paul Muscat, won the Prix d'Honneur and also the overall Silver Medal for 2009, in the category for conservation and restoration. The award was presented by President Emeritus Guide de Marco last Friday, 11th December 2009.
The Carmelite Priory is the only priory in Malta to be open to the public. It is also a functioning Church and Priory.
The first floor of the priory houses the Carmelite Institute Malta. It is a collaborative effort of the Maltese Carmelite Province and of the Maltese Province of Discalced Carmelites to promote in Malta the study of Carmelite spirituality and tradition. Its main goal is to offer courses in Carmelite spirituality and Mariology on various levels.
131/2009-15-12
Meeting of European Youth "Pilgrimage of Hope" Committee in Rome
The committee preparing for the "Pilgrimage of Hope" for the Carmelite European youth, which will take place in Rome in 2010, met at the Curia from the 4th to 7th December 2009. The meeting was chaired by Fr. David Oliver, O.Carm. (Arag.). The group prepared detailed plans for the programme of the pilgrimage and this information will be sent to the European provincial contacts shortly. Information about the pilgrimage and the prayer composed for the pilgrimage icon can found on the Order's website at Pilgrimage of Hope
On Sunday 6th December the committee visited Carmine Maggiore in Naples, where they participated in Mass at the Basilica. Fr. Raúl Maraví, O.Carm., Councillor General for schools and youth presided. They brought with them to Naples the icon of "Our Lady of Hope" which is presently traveling around Europe at gatherings of young people in preparation for the pilgrimage. On Tuesday 1st December, the Vatican's Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, while on a visit to our Carmelite parish in Albano Laziale outside of Rome, heard about the pilgrimage and prayed with the icon.
130/2009-14-12
Celebration of the 40th Anniversary of “Eau Vive” in Rome
On 6th December 2009 the Missionary Family of Donum Dei celebrated the 40th Anniversary of its presence in Rome with friends and benefactors. The auxiliary bishop for the centre of Rome, Mons. Ernesto Mandara, assisted by the Apostolic Nuncio in Ghana, Mons. Léon Kalenga Badikebele, presided at the Eucharist in the Church of St. Eustachio. Among the many concelebrants were the Vice-Prior General, Fr. Christian Körner, O.Carm., the Delegate for the Carmelite Family, Fr. Josef Jancar, O.Carm. and members of the General Curia. The celebrations concluded with a reception in the “Eau Vive” restaurant.
The restaurant, staffed entirely by the Missionary Workers, opened on 8th December 1969 and is situated right in the heart of Rome, between the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.
129/2009-11-12
Carmelites join the Wave for Climate Justice in London
Carmelite religious and laity were among those who took part in the "Wave for Climate Justice" event in London on Saturday 5th December 2009. Held in anticipation of the United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Copenhagen, "The Wave" was the biggest ever demonstration against climate change seen in Britain. The peaceful march was organised by the Stop Climate Chaos coalition to show the general public's concern about global warming and climate change, particularly how environmental damage caused by humans is impacting upon the world's poorest communities.
For thousands of Christians among the protesters, the day began with an ecumenical prayer service. Among the Roman Catholic hierarchy present were Mons. Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster.
Members of the British Province of Carmelites were led by the Prior Provincial, Fr. Wilfrid McGreal, O.Carm. Also among the Carmelites praying and marching were members of the Third Order.
The two-week long summit on Climate Change (COP15) begins at the Danish capital of Copenhagen on 7th December. The NGO of the Carmelite Order will be praying for and lobbying political leaders for the duration of the gathering.
See: http://www.carmelite.org/index.php?nuc=news&func=view&item=137
128/2009-09-12
Carmelite Parishes, Monasteries, and Ministries Worldwide Encouraged to Join Global Bell-Ringing for the Environment
As a way of participating in the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, Carmelite parishes, monasteries, and other ministries worldwide are being asked to show their support by taking part in a global bell-ringing action that will take place at 3 PM local time on Sunday, December 13, 2009. Everyone is asked to ring their bells 350 times symbolizing the 350 parts per million that mark the safe upper limit for CO2 (carbon dioxide) in the atmosphere according to many scientists.
The Carmelite NGO is present in Copenhagen and participating in the conference, popularly known as COP15, which is being held December 7-18, 2009.
Because of the impact this conference will have upon people around the globe for many years to come, it is hoped that Carmelites in every part of the world will take the opportunity to participate.
The bell-ringing is part of an international ecumenical service in Copenhagen's Lutheran Cathedral, the Church or Our Lady on Sunday, December 13, 2009, beginning at 2 PM. To show hope and resolve on behalf of believers in protecting God's creation, church bells will ring out at 3 PM across the globe through all time zones, starting in Fiji in the South Pacific, where the day begins, and continuing around the world.
Besides the Carmelite NGO, a number of Church organizations will be participating.
127/2009-09-12
Carmel at the Parliament of the World's Religions
The Parliament of the World's Religions is meeting in Melbourne Australia 3-9 of December 2009. The theme of the Parliament is making a difference through hearing one another and "healing the earth". Fr Ken Petersen, O.Carm. (Aust) and Sr. Kathleen Murphy OP from the Sancta Sophia Meditation Community situated at "Karith" the Carmelite House of Prayer in Warburton will be presenting the history and Spirituality of the Community under the title of "Sancta Sophia Meditation Community promoting Peace through Inter Religious Dialogue." They will be accompanied by Bri Nivedita Chaitanya a Hindu Nun and Chi Kwang Sunim a Buddhist Nun in the Korean tradition.
Over the past 14 years the Community has been promoting Peace through weekend programs retreats and meditation days with an emphasis on dialogue and collaboration among the religions of the world. The Community has also been a catalyst for the promotion of Inter Religious Dialogue in the wider community.
126-07-12
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
27-11-09 Fr. Ángel Montero Izquierdo, Bet
28-11-09 P. Renato Valente, Mel
30-11-09 Sr. M. Consuelo Velasco Bayon, FON
01-12-09 P. Floribertus Wignyaprasetya, Indo
125/2009-05-12
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of San Giovanni La Punta, Italy
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of San Giovanni La Punta, Italy, was held 30 November 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Rosalia Mangiarotti, O.Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Simona Nicita, O.Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Teresa Dreoni, O.Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Celina Atzei, O.Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Gesualda Morreale, O.Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Simona Nicita, O.Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Celina Atzei, O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. M. Angelica Panebianco, O.Carm.
124/2009-04-12
Workshop on environment education in Indonesia
On Sunday, 29 November 2009 the commission of JPIC of our Order together with the Indonesian Carmelite NGO held a seminar and workshop on environment education. Seventy Catholic teachers from “formal schools” (kindergarten to senior high school) and “non-formal schools” (including Sunday schools) attended the program. They discussed how to implement environment education in the subjects they teach in their schools.
Hariawan Adji O.Carm., the head of the committee, said that the seminar was intended for teachers because they are the agents of change. He added that the environmental problems could only be solved if people want to change their consumptive life-style into an environmentally friendly life-style. This can only be done through education. He also explained that the teachers invited to this program taught different subjects since environment education can be inserted in any subject.
The seminar was led by Albertus Herwanta O.Carm, head of JPIC of our Order. He explained about the theological background of environment education and the responsibility of Catholic teachers to help in solving this environmental problem.
The seminar was followed by a workshop given by Suryo Wardoyo, an expert in environmental studies. He guided the teachers in making educational programs. At the end of the program the participants asked if there would be a follow-up to this program.
123/2009-03-12-09
Venerable Angelo Paoli will be beatified in Rome on 18th April 2010
Venerable Angelo Paoli will be beatified in the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome on 18th April next. This date has been recently confirmed by the Roman Vicariate.
Angelo Paoli (b. Argigliano 1642, d. Rome 1720) became a Carmelite in 1660 and was ordained in 1667. After living in various houses in the Tuscan Province he was called to Rome in 1687 by the then Prior General, Paul of St Ignatius, and he lived at our house of St. Martino ai Monti until his death. He is now buried there. He was a man with an intense spiritual life and love of the Virgin. Wherever he was he committed himself to serving the poor and the sick, organising help for them, which was both innovative and effective. We are all invited to prepare for this solemn beatification with initiatives that help to make this figure of holiness in Carmel better known. Although distant in time, his message is still relevant. The beatification is an encouragement to us to be equally ready to recognize Christ in the most needy and to serve them with dedication and love.
122/2009-02-12
Carmelite NGO Observes World Human Rights Day with a Day of Prayer for Human Trafficking
The Carmelite NGO is inviting people around the world to celebrate World Human Rights Day, December 10, 2009, by focusing on the plague of Human Trafficking. People are asked to reflect on what is happening, to pray for all the people involved, and to make some concrete commitment that will help improve the situation.
A booklet, created by the Carmelite NGO for this celebration, offers a series of reflections 1) helping to create and deepen in each one of us a spirituality of commitment to the defense of life and the recovery of the human dignity of so many sisters and brothers that suffer all the time from exclusion, purchase, prostitution, murder, and human trafficking; 2) getting people to think about more effective and extensive ways to overcome these problems and to build a more human way of living together, and; 3) offering material that is simple and practical to those who wish to use it in the meetings of people who are committed to this cause.
A booklet designed specifically for this day can be downloaded at carmelitengo.org, the website of the Carmelite NGO.
121/2009-30-11 121/2009-30-11
General Assembly of the Donum Dei Missionary Family
During the General Assembly of the Donum Dei Missionary Family held at Sassone, Italy, on 17th November to 5th December 2009 the following were elected:
General Responsible: Agnès Brethomé, T.M.
Vice General Responsible: Marie Michèle Manukula, T.M.
First Councilor: Albertine Ouédraogo, T.M.
Second Councilor: Magali Gaussen, T.M.
Third Councilor: Anna Hong, T.M.
Fourth Councilor: Angelina Zongo, T.M.
Fifth Councilor: Therese Marie Nguyen Chiet, T.M.
120/2009-28-11 120/2009-28-11
Blessing of the icon “Our Lady of Hope” in Ravenna, Italy
Blessing of the icon “Our Lady of Hope” in Ravenna, Italy
On Sunday 22nd November 2009, the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm., blessed a new icon entitled Madonna della Speranza (Our Lady of Hope) in the Carmelite monastery of Ravenna in Italy.
The image depicts Mary seated and presenting Christ, the wisdom of God, to young people gathered at her feet. The icon is the work and gift of the Carmelite nuns in Ravenna to the European Carmelite Youth Pilgrimage of Hope, which will take place in Rome in July 2010 (see CITOC 59/2009). It will now travel, throughout the Carmelite provinces of Europe at gatherings of young people in preparation for the pilgrimage in 2010.The icon was presented to Fr. General by the Prioress, Sr. M. Anastasia Cucca, O.Carm, and then entrusted to Bro. Luca Sciarelli, O.Carm. (Ita) a member of the Pilgrimage Committee. The Prior General was accompanied by the Councillor General for Europe, Fr. John Keating, O.Carm, and Fr. Mario Alfarano, O.Carm.. Secretary General. While in this region, the Prior General, Frs. Keating and Alfarano took the opportunity to visit the Carmelite nuns in Sogliano al Rubicone.
The icon is presently being taken to gatherings of young people in Italy. On Monday 23rd November, the first meeting with the youth of the Florence area took place in Prato, where some 70 young people were present. Contact regional committee members are: Fr. David Oliver, O.Carm. (Arag) for the Iberian Region, Brothers Thomas Feiten, O.Carm. (GerS) for Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Luca Sciarelli, O.Carm.(Ita) for Italy and Malta, and Dave Twohig O.Carm. (Hib) for France, Britain and Ireland.
119/2009-26-11
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Barcelona, Spain
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Barcelona, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Barcelona, Spain, was held 21-24 November 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Pilar Simón, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Carmen Izquierdo, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Amàlia Rosàs, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Jacinta Mutio, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Carmen Ribas, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Amàlia Rosàs, O. Carm.
Treasurers: Sr. M. Roser Ferrer, O. Carm. and Sr. M. Carmen Izquierdo, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. M. Roser Ferrer, O. Carm.
118/2009-25-11
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
18-11-09 P. Leo McCarthy, PCM
23-11-09 P. Joel Moelter, PCM
117/2009-24-11
Meeting of the Commission and Secretariat for the Laity, Rome 10 - 13 November 2009
Meeting of the Commission and Secretariat for the Laity, Rome 10 - 13 November 2009
From the 10th to the 13th of November 2009 the Commission and Secretariat for the Laity met at the Curia in Rome for the second time, presided over by the General Delegate for the laity, Fr Josef Jancár, O.Carm. The programme proposed and prepared by the Secretariat regarding the next International Congress of lay Carmelites, which will take place at Sassone in September of 2012 was approved. During the discussions on the formation of lay Carmelites, the necessity to set out a Commentary on the Guidelines for formation emerged, in order to offer a more detailed help on an international level. Also discussed was the issue of the various responsibilities both of the lay members and the Carmelite friars regarding laity. They discussed the proposed meeting for the provincial delegates for the laity, which the General Delegate intends to convene at the end of next year so as to further collaboration and discussion of themes of common interest. At the conclusion of the meeting, Av. Mr. Andrea Ventimiglia, Third Order Carmelite, presented a proposal to give greater significance to Third Order International (TOCI), which already exists, in a way that contributes to the revitalization and promotion of the work and the role of lay Carmelites in the different provinces, supporting and coordinating initiatives.
116/2009-23-11
60th anniversary of the Carmelite Secular Institute The Leaven
60th anniversary of the Carmelite Secular Institute The Leaven
On 21st November the Carmelite Secular Institute known as The Leaven (The Institute of Our Lady of Mount Carmel) has celebrated its Diamond Jubilee at Aylesford Priory in Kent, Great Britain. Aylesford is the spiritual home of The Leaven, which was originally established there as a Lay community when the friars returned to their ancient priory in November 1949.
Today the Institute is made up of single women who wish to live a consecrated life in their own homes and workplaces. Dozens of members are found across Britain, sharing their experience of Carmel's rich spirituality with people of all walks of life. The celebration in Aylesford is an opportunity to look back over the past 60 years and thank God for all that the Holy Spirit has done in the Church and in the World through the presence of these consecrated Lay Carmelites.
The leader of The Leaven, Rosemary Kinman, said: "The Leaven's story is one of courage, difficulties, the daring to change amidst opposition, of prayer and discernment, and above all a great love of Carmel. Doubtless the future will hold many challenges for us. Consecrated life in any form is not easy, and those of us called to such a life in The Leaven need to go forth valiantly as the founder members did, reading the signs of the times, and building up God's kingdom by adapting ourselves when it is necessary and prudent."
For more information about The Leaven please visit www.theleaven.org.uk and the Lay Carmel section of www.carmelite.org.
115/2009-21-11
Activities of the Prior General in Latin America
Activities of the Prior General in Latin America
Following the ALACAR Congress, which took place at the Villa de Leiva, Columbia (see CITOC no. 108/2009), the Prior General Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm., who was accompanied by Fr. Raúl Maraví. O.Carm., Councillor General for the Americas, visited the communities of Medellin and Arjona. There they met with various lay groups and also saw the wonderful work the brothers of the General Delegation Titus Brandsma are doing in the parish barrio quarter of 12 de Octubre at Medellin and saw also what was being done by the brothers of the Italian Province in the parish of San José Obrero in Arjona. Both groups are developing diverse social projects.
They moved on to El Salvador, where they participated in the official inauguration of Centro de Reflexión Teológica Barteolomé Xiberta, O.Carm. Fr. John Welch, O.Carm., Prior Provincial of the Most Pure Heart of Mary Province also participated. There they met various lay groups. They visited the offices of the NGO Nuevos Horizontes and The Central University of America (UCA), with which the Prior General had academic links. He also received the vows of the first eleven members of the Third Order from that Central American country. To end with, on the liturgical Commemoration of the Dead, accompanied by numerous lay Carmelites, he celebrated the Eucharist in the crypt of the cathedral near to the tomb of Archbishop Oscar Romero. The Prior General recalled for them the famous homily of Mons. Romero on the Scapular of Carmel.
Finally, from 5th to 9th November he visited the Carmelite communities of the Province of Castile in Argentina. Having visited the various parishes and schools they run in Lanús Este, Banfield and Lomas de Zamora, he visited UCA (Catholic University of Argentina), the community of Donum Dei at Luján and the Irmãs Carmelitas da Divina Providência at Almirante Brown. While there they celebrated the tenth anniversary of Biblioteca Popular Tito Brandsma. This brings to five the libraries in Latin America that carry this name, Lomas de Zamora in Argentina, Tarija in Bolivia, José Gálvez in Perú, Ciudad Delegado in El Salvador and Medellín in Columbia.
114/2009-18-11
Carmelite NGO brings Prayer and Reflection to Copenhagen Summit on the Environment
Carmelite NGO brings Prayer and Reflection to Copenhagen Summit on the Environment
Acknowledging the moral imperative to protect the environment, members of the Carmelite NGO will travel to Copenhagen, Denmark to participate in the global event “The United Nations Climate Change Conference” December 7 – 18, 2009. There amidst the gathering of world leaders, scientists and other non-governmental organizations, members of the Carmelite NGO will invite those present to reflect and pray on our shared responsibility as care takers of creation.
“Climate change is a serious concern and an inescapable responsibility for each member of society without exception,” said Sister Jane Remson, O.Carm., main representative of the Carmelite NGO to the United Nations. Caring for the earth requires that all governments act collectively to protect the environment, safeguard precious resources and respect the dignity and worth of all creation. No nation alone can solve the enormous problems associated with climate change; however, by acting together and overcoming self-interest attitudes towards consumption and exploitation of natural resources, we can reverse the adverse consequences of climate change. Sister Remson reiterated the words of Pope Benedict XVI when he said, “The natural environment is given by God to everyone, and so our use of it entails a personal responsibility towards humanity as a whole, particularly towards the poor and towards future generations.”
The Carmelite NGO will sponsor “A Time of Prayer ~ The Natural World, Manifestation and Experience of the Sacred: A Further Reflection to Climate Change” each day during the Conference in Copenhagen. Everyone is invited to download a copy of “A Time of Prayer” from www.carmelitengo.org
113/2009-16-11
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
06-11-09 P. Laetantius Morskieft, GerI
08-11-09 P. Franklin Tasker, PCM
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
06-11-09 P. Laetantius Morskieft, GerI
08-11-09 P. Franklin Tasker, PCM
112/2009-03-11
60th anniversary of the return of the Carmelites to Aylesford
60th anniversary of the return of the Carmelites to Aylesford
On 31st October 1949 a good number of Carmelite friars from all over the world walked across the 13th century bridge into the village of Aylesford and on to the house which has borne the name “The Friars” for many years. This was one of the first Carmelite foundations in Europe in 1242. The monasteries in England were dissolved at the order of King Henry VIII in 1538 and the Carmelites had to leave their ancient home. The return to Aylesford had long been sought and it was accomplished in 1949.
On 31st October 2009, the 60th anniversary of this return was celebrated. Those who had given their time to the mission of “The Friars” throughout the year, and especially for the visit of the relics of St. Therese from 9th-11th October, were invited to celebrate this anniversary with the Carmelite community. The day began with an inventive gathering service in which various people expressed their feelings for Aylesford and then the principal celebrant at the Mass was Fr. Christian Kőrner, Vice Prior General, assisted by the General Councillor for Europe Fr. John Keating and the Bursar General Fr. Kevin Alban. Recalling the story of Aylesford the Prior Provincial of the British Province, Fr. Wilfrid McGreal, during his homily expressed his gratitude to all those who were involved during these past sixty years.
111/2009-01-11
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Antequera, Spain
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Antequera, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Antequera, Spain, was held 29 October 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Liliana M. Campos Rosa, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Juliana Kavithe Mwololo, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Teresa Ngusye Mbuvi, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Angelina Ngina Muli, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Juliana Kavithe Mwololo, O. Carm.
Published in
CITOC Archive
110/2009-31-10
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Beja, Portugal
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Beja, Portugal
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Beja, Portugal, was held 28 October 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Inês Ferreira de Viveiros, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Lúcia Natal Barreiros, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Maria Oliveira Figueiredo, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Lúcia Natal Barreiros, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Maria Oliveira Figueiredo, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Maria da Eucaristia Pires, O. Carm.
109/2009-30-10
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
October 2009
October 2009
Initium Novitiatus
10-07-09 Trymore Clever Gwengwe (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Itai Davis Siziba (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Thomas Wellington Hweta (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Rangarirai Mutanga (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Tafadzwa Muchabaiwa (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Aldrine Muchenje (Hib-Zim), Rusape
08-09-09 Romain Zangue Voufou (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Ignace Jonathan Eyelezoa (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Louis Marie Grignon Manga Ottou (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Alain Claude Mani Bihina (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Charles Dieudonné Mboudou (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Joseph Patrick Okolama Odi (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Christian Sandjo Ghomsi (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Aurel Dongmo Chouna (GerI-Cam)
10-07-09 Trymore Clever Gwengwe (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Itai Davis Siziba (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Thomas Wellington Hweta (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Rangarirai Mutanga (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Tafadzwa Muchabaiwa (Hib-Zim), Rusape
10-07-09 Aldrine Muchenje (Hib-Zim), Rusape
08-09-09 Romain Zangue Voufou (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Ignace Jonathan Eyelezoa (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Louis Marie Grignon Manga Ottou (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Alain Claude Mani Bihina (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Charles Dieudonné Mboudou (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Joseph Patrick Okolama Odi (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Christian Sandjo Ghomsi (GerI-Cam)
08-09-09 Aurel Dongmo Chouna (GerI-Cam)
Professio Solemnis
01-10-09 Maria Teresa Sisto (OST), Ostuni
15-10-09 M. Benedetta Succu (VET), Vetralla
22-10-09 Rinson George Manjala (Ind), Chettupuzha
22-10-09 Deepak Jose Aracka (Ind), Chettupuzha
22-10-09 Jinto Jose Pynadath (Ind), Chettupuzha
Ordinatio Sacerdotalis
15-10-09 F.X Hariawan Adji (Indo), Malang
15-10-09 Yohanes Radik Suryawan (Indo), Malang
15-10-09 Marselinus Monang Sijabat (Indo), Malang
15-10-09 Andreas Novem Munjil Wahyono (Indo), Malang
24-10-09 Joseph Matare (Hib-Zim), Rusape
24-10-09 Wiseman Msemwa (Hib-Zim), Rusape
24-10-09 Wiseman Msemwa (Hib-Zim), Rusape
108/2009-28-10
Meeting of ALACAR (Association of Carmelites in Latin America)
Meeting of ALACAR (Association of Carmelites in Latin America)
The second ALACAR congress was held from 20 to 24 October in Villa de Leyva in Colombia. The theme was "Mysticism and prophecy in Carmel". Around 150 people took part from both branches of Carmel (friars, nuns, sisters and laypeople.
The speakers were the two Superiors General, Fernando Millan Romeral O. Carm. and Saverio Cannistrà OCD, together with Camilo Maccise OCD and Carlos Mesters O. Carm. and they were joined by Abraham Maximiliano Camino (lay Carmelite) and Sr. Virginia Rosales, Carmelite missionary. The speakers approached the subject from various perspectives and the participants discussed the conferences in groups where they not only analysed what had been said, but made proposals with a view to putting into practice these two essential dimensions of the Carmelite charism.During the meeting there was also a pilgrimmage to the shrine of the Virgin of Chiquinquirá where the Prior General presided at a Eucharist.
The next meeting of ALACAR will be in 2012 and will be organised by the executive members of the association, Raúl Maraví, O.Carm., Francisco de Sales Alencar, O.Carm., Marcos Juchem, OCD. and Milton Moulthon, OCD.
Without doubt these meetings represent an iniziative at the forefront of developments in Carmelite life and help in achieving a better understanding of the various elements of the Carmelite Family.
107/2009-26-10
International Triennial Bursars Meeting 19 -24 October, 2009
International Triennial Bursars Meeting 19 -24 October, 2009
From 19 to 24 October 2009, provincial bursars, finance directors and business managers, Carmelite and lay, gathered from all over the world in Sassone, Italy, to take part in their triennial meeting under the chairmanship of the Bursar General, Kevin Alban.
The meeting had two components: information and formation. There were several useful discussions regarding financial reporting from the provinces to the Curia and many issues were clarified regarding the definition of accounting terms and how to compile the returns. Secondly, several outside speakers made presentations to the group. Frs John Keating and Desiré Unen Alimange, Councillors General for Europe and Africa respectively, informed the group about recent developments in their areas. Fr Helmut Rakowski OFM Cap. spoke about the fraternal economy of solidarity, participation and transparency. 
Avv. Massimo Merlini outlined the expected changes in law across Europe regarding religious orders and a team from the IOR (the so-called “Vatican Bank”) presented a panorama of the current economic crisis. Finally Jeff Cull, a member of the General Finance Commission, gave a presentation on fund raising in the present environment.For photos of the meeting follow the link: www.tinyurl.com/carmelite-bursars2009
106/2009-26-10
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Zenderen, The Netherlands
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Zenderen, The Netherlands
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Zenderen, The Netherlands, was held 14 October 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Thérèse Neppelenbroek, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Josphine de Jong, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Pauline Meijer, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Jacintha Stoolhuis, O. Carm
105/2009-21-10
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
06-10-09 P. John Canning, SEL
07-10-09 Sr. Purificación Jimenez Conejero, CAU
15-10-09 Jo Goossens, Ner
17-10-09 P. Jan van Loon, Ner
19-10-09 P. Fernando Beltran Mallol, Arag
06-10-09 P. John Canning, SEL
07-10-09 Sr. Purificación Jimenez Conejero, CAU
15-10-09 Jo Goossens, Ner
17-10-09 P. Jan van Loon, Ner
19-10-09 P. Fernando Beltran Mallol, Arag
104/2009-18-10
40th anniversary of Provincial Commissariat of Eastern Indonesia
40th anniversary of Provincial Commissariat of Eastern Indonesia
On October 4th 2009 the Provincial Commissariat of Eastern Indonesia celebrated its 40th anniversary. The Carmelite mission began on October 4th 1969 when the Indonesian Province sent three Carmelites (Fr. Frans Sarjono, Fr. Ignazio Widodo, and Br. Jacob Suraji) to take over the very poor parish of “Holy Cross” in Mauloo, Flores. This parish was chosen as a preferential option for the poor. The parish has now grown to six parishes.
Since 28 September 2006 this mission is known as the Commissariat of Eastern Indonesia. At this present time it has a pre-novitiate house (St. Paul), a novitiate house (St. Therese Lisieux), two student houses (St. Dionysius and St. Redemptus), and two retreat houses: St. Elia (in Flores) and St. Yoseph (Bali), and a hermitage on the hill of Kelikeo, Flores.
In Flores our Carmelites are also running schools at Alvarez: a kindergarten, a secondary school, and a high school. 48 Carmelite priests have come from the commissariat, 20 of them are working in the commissariat. Presently there are 2 solemnly professed students, 42 simply professed students, 35 novices, and some postulants. Vocations in this commissariat seem to be flourishing, offering great hope to our Order.
103/2009-16-10
Visit of the Relics of St Thérèse of Lisieux to Aylesford, UK
Visit of the Relics of St Thérèse of Lisieux to Aylesford, UK
The relics of St. Thérèse have been touring around England and Wales from 16 September and from 9 to 11 October the relics of the “Little Flower” came to Aylesford in England, the historic priory founded in 1242 by hermits from Mount Carmel.
On 9 October at about 2pm the relics arrived from the Discalced Carmelite parish of Gerrards Cross and were greeted by a substantial crowd, led by the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, the Prior Provincial of the British Province, Fr. Wilfrid McGreal, the Prior of Aylesford, Fr. Brendan Grady, and a large number of friars. The following day, 10 October, the Archbishop of Southwark, Most Rev. Kevin McDonald presided at an open air Mass at the shrine for some 9,000 people. The Councillor General for Europe, Fr. John Keating, preached at the Mass. During the day it is estimated that some 13,000 people were present to venerate the relics. On Sunday 11 October, the Prior General presided at a Mass with some 5,000 people and in the afternoon the relics departed for the Discalced parish of Kensington in London. At the same time the relics were present, there was also a retreat led by Fr. Robert Colaresi, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, Fr. Joseph Chalmers and Fr. Kevin Alban for some 70 people who wished to find out about St Thérèse and reflect on her message.For further information and photos see: www.flickr.com/photos/catholicism
102/2009-14-10
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Paranavaí, Brazil
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Paranavaí, Brazil
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Paranavaí, Brazil, was held 10 October 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Derly de Paula Moreira, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Marisel Teresita Negrón, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Adalgiza dos Santos, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Natalina Grande, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. Maria Alice Pereira Lopes, O. Carm.
Prioress: Sr. Derly de Paula Moreira, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Marisel Teresita Negrón, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Adalgiza dos Santos, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Natalina Grande, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. Maria Alice Pereira Lopes, O. Carm.
101/2009-13-10
Inauguration of the new formation house of Missionary Family Donum Dei
Inauguration of the new formation house of Missionary Family Donum Dei
On the 8th of October last the new house of formation for the Missionary Family of Donum Dei was inaugurated at Grâce-Dieu, in the Archdiocese of Besançon (France), thus transferring it from the house of the General Curia (Rome) which had become too small for the numerous vocations of the Missionary Family. Apart from the local bishop Mons. André Lacrampe and the General responsible for the FMDD, Mlle. Clémentine Paré, T.M. who took part in the ceremony, there were also two other bishops, numerous priests and laity present. Representing the General Curia and taking part in the occasion was Fr. Josef Jancar, O.Carm., General Delegate for the Laity. In his address he underlined the importance of formation in the growth of candidates in their missionary and Carmelite vocation. He also expressed the gratitude of the Order to Mons. Lacrampe, promoter and great supporter of the new foundation and of the “School of Formation of the Missionary Workers”, which was inaugurated prior to the celebration of Mass. The School is also aided by the involvement of priests and laity, to whom Fr. Josef expressed his deep gratitude. During the inauguration ceremony, the General responsible for the Missionary Workers and those responsible for the formation outlined the scope of each stage of formation and the lecturers outlined the content of each of the courses.
100/2009-10-10
First students graduate from Carmelite Institute of Britain and Ireland (CIBI)
First students graduate from Carmelite Institute of Britain and Ireland (CIBI)
On 6th October 2009 the first graduations of students enrolled in the Carmelite Institute of Britain and Ireland (CIBI) took place in Dublin, Ireland.
CIBI began offering distance-learning courses in Carmelite Studies in 2006, as a joint initiative of the Carmelites of the Ancient and Discalced Observances. The courses, which have the status of Pontifical Awards, are accredited by the Milltown Institute in Dublin.
The first students to complete the Adult Education Diploma in Carmelite Studies were at Milltown to receive their diplomas in person. Two of the students are Lay Carmelites from Britain: Patricia Bradburn, a member of the Third Order Secular (TOC) and Ann Hardman, a member of the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order (OCDS). The third student is 84 year-old Sister Mary-Cecilia Lee, a Discalced Carmelite nun from the monastery in Delgany, Ireland.
Not content to rest on their laurels, all three students have already opted to continue their studies, progressing to the more advanced CIBI Diploma in Carmelite Studies.
CIBI began offering distance-learning courses in Carmelite Studies in 2006, as a joint initiative of the Carmelites of the Ancient and Discalced Observances. The courses, which have the status of Pontifical Awards, are accredited by the Milltown Institute in Dublin.
The first students to complete the Adult Education Diploma in Carmelite Studies were at Milltown to receive their diplomas in person. Two of the students are Lay Carmelites from Britain: Patricia Bradburn, a member of the Third Order Secular (TOC) and Ann Hardman, a member of the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order (OCDS). The third student is 84 year-old Sister Mary-Cecilia Lee, a Discalced Carmelite nun from the monastery in Delgany, Ireland.
Not content to rest on their laurels, all three students have already opted to continue their studies, progressing to the more advanced CIBI Diploma in Carmelite Studies.
99/2009-08-10
Meeting on the Theme: “Protection and conservation of the environment: ethical and civic responsibility”
Meeting on the Theme: “Protection and conservation of the environment: ethical and civic responsibility”
The Domus Carmelitana Siculorum (Sicily) together with the Third Order of the Italian Province of Carmelites, and in collaboration with the Study Centre “J. Maritain” of Catania and the Agency “Parco dell’Etna” organized a conference on the theme: “Protection and conservation of the environment: ethical and civic responsibility” from the 26th to 27th September 2009 at Zafferana, Etnea, Italy. Michele Bonanno (President of the Third Order of Carmelites of the Italian Province) introduced the proceedings. The speakers were: Andrea Ventimiglia (The social doctrine of the Church and the protection of creation: extracts from the encyclicals of John Paul II and Benedict XVI), Ettore Foti (Lay institutions and the environmental issue); Professor Francesco Patania (Concrete hypotheses possible interventions for the protection of the environment); General Councillor. Fr. Albertus Herwanta, O.Carm. (Carmelite initiatives and proposals for the care of creation). Fr. Mimmo Meloni, O.Carm., Prior Provincial of the Italian Province, presided at the Eucharist ending the meeting. Among the objectives of the meeting was the approval of a prepared document to present to the Carmelite NGO for the International Congress of the UNO, which will take place in December 2009 next in Copenhagen.
98/2009-06-10
Prayer request from India
Prayer request from India
The Prior Provincial of the St. Thomas Province, India, Fr. Mathew Neendoor O.Carm. has written: "All of you have might have heard, the people of South India are really suffering form heavy rains and floods in these days. Our villages, where we are doing our pastoral ministry in Andhra Mission, have also been severely affected by the floods. Ramapuram village in the Kurnool district is completely destroyed. All the houses in these villages are washed away in the floods. The Shawthappilli village is partially destroyed. We give rehabilitation facilities for the people of both the villages. In this difficult situation of suffering, I earnestly request your prayers and support. Please remember in your prayers our confreres who are working in the Andhra Mission. Let us remember and pray for all the people who are suffering because of heavy rain and floods and all those who have lost their homes."
97/2009-30-09
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
September 2009
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
September 2009
Initium Novitiatus
23-08-09 Arnaldo Osuna (Bet-Ven), Merida
23-08-09 Julio César Materano (Bet-Ven), Merida
01-09-09 Arur Skórzewski (Pol), Obory
01-09-09 Wojciech Jan Krywcun (Pol), Obory
08-09-09 Andrew Joyce (Brit), Aylesford
23-08-09 Arnaldo Osuna (Bet-Ven), Merida
23-08-09 Julio César Materano (Bet-Ven), Merida
01-09-09 Arur Skórzewski (Pol), Obory
01-09-09 Wojciech Jan Krywcun (Pol), Obory
08-09-09 Andrew Joyce (Brit), Aylesford
Professio Temporanea
02-09-09 Paul Jenkins (Brit), Aylesford
08-09-09 Charles Kambale Muke (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Innocent Djombu Dz'djo (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Jean Claude Isusi Mumbanza (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Gilbert Paluku Musongora (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Aimé Ufoymungu Wathum (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Jean Vianney Ukerdogu Alipacu (Ita-Con), Bunia
13-09-09 Paul Malewa (Brun-Tan), Napoli
13-09-09 Paschal Shirima (Brun-Tan), Napoli
13-09-09 Victor Biramata (Brun-Tan), Napoli
19-09-09 Rodrigue Parfait Ndonfou Fifen (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Guy Jacques Akono (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Karim Théodore Bertin Njoya Eyebe (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Jean Jacques Bazam (Bet-Bur)
02-09-09 Paul Jenkins (Brit), Aylesford
08-09-09 Charles Kambale Muke (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Innocent Djombu Dz'djo (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Jean Claude Isusi Mumbanza (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Gilbert Paluku Musongora (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Aimé Ufoymungu Wathum (Ita-Con), Bunia
08-09-09 Jean Vianney Ukerdogu Alipacu (Ita-Con), Bunia
13-09-09 Paul Malewa (Brun-Tan), Napoli
13-09-09 Paschal Shirima (Brun-Tan), Napoli
13-09-09 Victor Biramata (Brun-Tan), Napoli
19-09-09 Rodrigue Parfait Ndonfou Fifen (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Guy Jacques Akono (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Karim Théodore Bertin Njoya Eyebe (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Jean Jacques Bazam (Bet-Bur)
Professio Solemnis
19-09-09 Joseph Armand Ongono (GerI-Cam),
19-09-09 Benjamin Kengne (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Francois-M. Manga (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Marie-Jérome Messi (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Joseph Armand Ongono (GerI-Cam),
19-09-09 Benjamin Kengne (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Francois-M. Manga (GerI-Cam)
19-09-09 Marie-Jérome Messi (GerI-Cam)
Ordinatio Sacerdotalis
19-09-09 David del Carpio Horcajo (Bet), Madrid
19-09-09 David del Carpio Horcajo (Bet), Madrid
96/2009-29-09
Emergency Appeal for Assistance
for Storm Ondoy victims in the Philippines
Emergency Appeal for Assistance
for Storm Ondoy victims in the Philippines
Typhoon Ondoy (International name: Ketsana) entered the Philippines territory on September 26, 2009 and has caused flashfloods and landslides in Luzon, including Metro Manila.
Rivers and creeks overflowed and walls weakened by floodwaters collapsed. Floodwaters forced people, especially those in low-lying areas to seek higher ground. Most are on the roofs of their houses to avoid being taken in by flashfloods. Floodwaters caused packed traffic jams and people who left early from their homes were stranded.Over 100 have died and the figure is rising. Our Carmelite parishes, the Parish of San Isidro Labrador in Barangay Bagong Silangan, and the Sagrada Familia Parish both located in Quezon City are greatly affected. In the Parish of San Isidro Labrador alone, more than 50 persons have died and 100 are missing, while in Sagrada Familia parish, there are more than 500 families who are totally affected by the flash flood. Many of their houses are partially and totally damaged or washed out due to the flash flood. They are now temporarily housed in the Parish Church and in the different Centers.
The number of families affected across Luzon has swelled to 69,513 (about 337,216 people). The number of evacuees has also reached 11,967 families (about 59,920 people) who are staying in 118 evacuation centers, NDCC data showed.
Families affected need our help. Donations may be sent through the Order of Carmelites. You can call us at the procurator’s office Tel No. (02) 726-77-65 look for Fr. Aris Escobal, O. Carm. or Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
95/2009-29-09
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
28-09-09 P. Carmelo Gómez Gálvez, Prior Provincialis Arago-Valentinae
21-09-09 P. Brian Murphy, SEL
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
28-09-09 P. Carmelo Gómez Gálvez, Prior Provincialis Arago-Valentinae
21-09-09 P. Brian Murphy, SEL
94/2009-28-09
Beginning of Tanzanian Mission
Beginning of Tanzanian Mission
For several years the General Commissariat of “La Bruna” has been committed to opening a house for friars in Tanzania. In this period, a number of young men have been formed in Naples.
After the last trip of Fr. Thomas Mtey in Africa to make contact with the local ordinary regarding this mission, Cardinal Pengo assigned to the Carmelites the parish of Bunju with the idea that it will become a Marian centre for the diocese of Dar-es-Salam. Work began on a house for the community in January 2006 and finished some months ago.
On Wednesday 30 September, Fr. Thomas Mtey, Bros. Dominic Somola, Paul Malewa, Victor Biramata, Paschal Shirima and a postulant, Richard Phocas, will leave Italy to begin this wonderful adventure in Africa.
We entrust to the maternal heart of Mary, our Mother and Sister, this young mission and especially these young Tanzanians.
After the last trip of Fr. Thomas Mtey in Africa to make contact with the local ordinary regarding this mission, Cardinal Pengo assigned to the Carmelites the parish of Bunju with the idea that it will become a Marian centre for the diocese of Dar-es-Salam. Work began on a house for the community in January 2006 and finished some months ago.
On Wednesday 30 September, Fr. Thomas Mtey, Bros. Dominic Somola, Paul Malewa, Victor Biramata, Paschal Shirima and a postulant, Richard Phocas, will leave Italy to begin this wonderful adventure in Africa.
We entrust to the maternal heart of Mary, our Mother and Sister, this young mission and especially these young Tanzanians.
93/2009-23-09
XVI Council of Provinces - Final Message
XVI Council of Provinces - Final Message
The 16th Council of Provinces took place at Il Carmine, San Felice del Benaco, from September 3rd to 12th 2009. The theme of the meeting was Embracing his Gospel: Carmelite community in faith, hope and love. The Prior General and members of the General Council gathered with the Priors Provincial, Commissaries General, Commissaries Provincial and Delegates General from all continents, reminding us once again of the continuing growth of the Carmelite presence throughout the world. The participants wanted to share their experience through the final message, which is attached at this citoc-online.
92/2009-19-09
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Ravenna, Italy
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Ravenna, Italy
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Ravenna, Italy, was held 14-17 September 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Anastasia Cucca, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Barbara Stella, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Pia Malmesi, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Elena Pasca, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Elisabetta Mambelli, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Elisabetta Mambelli, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Pia Malmesi, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. M. Barbara Stella, O. Carm.
Prioress: Sr. M. Anastasia Cucca, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Barbara Stella, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Pia Malmesi, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Elena Pasca, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Elisabetta Mambelli, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Elisabetta Mambelli, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Pia Malmesi, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. M. Barbara Stella, O. Carm.
91/2009-17-09
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
14-08-09 P. Bento Caspers, Flum
27-08-09 P. Paul Hoban, PCM
01-09-09 Sr. M. Dolores Moya Guarino, UTR
02-09-09 P. Pedro Caxito, Flum
09-09-09 P. Ambrosius Molenbroek, GerI
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
14-08-09 P. Bento Caspers, Flum
27-08-09 P. Paul Hoban, PCM
01-09-09 Sr. M. Dolores Moya Guarino, UTR
02-09-09 P. Pedro Caxito, Flum
09-09-09 P. Ambrosius Molenbroek, GerI
90/2009-16-09
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE - Augustus 2009
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE - Augustus 2009
Initium Novitiatus
10-07-09 Manuel Hornay (Aust-Tim), Hera
10-07-09 Joel Alfonso da Silva (Aus-Tim), Hera
10-07-09 Fabio Paulo Gama (Aust-Tim), Hera
10-07-09 Salvador Bere da Silva Barreto (Aust-Tim), Hera
13-08-09 Felix Bernardus Sanga (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Viktorius Sesarius Gebo (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Aloysius Dói (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Jeremias Du'e (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fabianus Dabi Dede (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Yoseph Ferdinandus Rasi (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fransiskus Radho (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Mario De Liguori Boleng (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Apolinaris Edit Rowa (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fransiskus Pati Koten (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Irenius Vinsensius Ngaku (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Petrus Senodius (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Metodius Wilhelmus Sola (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Priskus Lise Ware (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Frederikus Meze Tai (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Vinsensius Ndua Woa (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fransiskus Xaverius Nenga (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fransisco Vincenzo Franky Gare Yoseph (Indo), Flores
10-07-09 Manuel Hornay (Aust-Tim), Hera
10-07-09 Joel Alfonso da Silva (Aus-Tim), Hera
10-07-09 Fabio Paulo Gama (Aust-Tim), Hera
10-07-09 Salvador Bere da Silva Barreto (Aust-Tim), Hera
13-08-09 Felix Bernardus Sanga (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Viktorius Sesarius Gebo (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Aloysius Dói (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Jeremias Du'e (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fabianus Dabi Dede (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Yoseph Ferdinandus Rasi (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fransiskus Radho (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Mario De Liguori Boleng (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Apolinaris Edit Rowa (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fransiskus Pati Koten (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Irenius Vinsensius Ngaku (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Petrus Senodius (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Metodius Wilhelmus Sola (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Priskus Lise Ware (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Frederikus Meze Tai (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Vinsensius Ndua Woa (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fransiskus Xaverius Nenga (Indo), Flores
13-08-09 Fransisco Vincenzo Franky Gare Yoseph (Indo), Flores
Professio Temporanea
11-07-09 Position Chikuruwo (Hib-Zim), Kriste Mambo
11-07-09 Webster Chibvongodze (Hib-Zim), Kriste Mambo
11-07-09 Francis Lefani Mwanza (Hib-Zim), Kriste Mambo
11-07-09 Wellington Muzenda (Hib-Zim), Kriste Mambo
19-07-09 Januario Pinto (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Constancio Monteiro (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Adao Hornay (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Rui Pinto (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Zito de Sousa (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Yohanes da Silva (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Carlito da Silva (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Camilo Felix (Aust-Tim), Hera
15-08-09 Juliana Napura Fermano (Rox), Roxas City
28-08-09 Fe Leonie L. Yabo (DUM), Dumaguete City
11-07-09 Position Chikuruwo (Hib-Zim), Kriste Mambo
11-07-09 Webster Chibvongodze (Hib-Zim), Kriste Mambo
11-07-09 Francis Lefani Mwanza (Hib-Zim), Kriste Mambo
11-07-09 Wellington Muzenda (Hib-Zim), Kriste Mambo
19-07-09 Januario Pinto (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Constancio Monteiro (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Adao Hornay (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Rui Pinto (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Zito de Sousa (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Yohanes da Silva (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Carlito da Silva (Aust-Tim), Hera
19-07-09 Camilo Felix (Aust-Tim), Hera
15-08-09 Juliana Napura Fermano (Rox), Roxas City
28-08-09 Fe Leonie L. Yabo (DUM), Dumaguete City
Professio Solemnis
16-05-09 M. Victorina Olomoguez (DUM), Dumaguete City
01-08-09 Elsy Arackal Inasu (ARA), Aracena
09-08-09 Hermianus Yoseph Sugi (Indo), Maumere, Flores
09-08-09 Simon Petrus Ta'a (Indo), Maumere, Flores
09-08-09 Stanislaus Jenambur (Indo), Maumere, Flores
09-08-09 Emanuel Ewaldus Krowa (Indo), Maumere, Flores
15-08-09 Jonathan Suescún Camacho (Cat-Ven), Caracas
15-08-09 Alexandre Cortez (Flum), Belo Horizonte
15-08-09 Wilson da Mota Fernandes (Flum), Belo Horizonte
15-08-09 Adailson Quintino (Flum), Belo Horizonte
15-08-09 Damião do Nascimento Souza (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 Fábio Rodrigues da Silva (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 José Leandro Alencar da Silva (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 Leonardo Ferreira Botelho (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 Ricardo de Vasconcelos Barbosa (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 Maria Josephine de Jong (ZEN), Zenderen
22-08-09 Marcelo de Jesus (Flum), São Paulo
27-08-09 Erik Wahyu Tjahjana (Indo), Malang
27-08-09 Ignatius Abadi (Indo), Malang
27-08-09 Samuel Anton Situmorang (Indo), Malang
27-08-09 Patricius Marianus Simanjuntak (Indo), Malang
27-08-09 Alfonsus Arpol Manik (Indo), Malang
16-05-09 M. Victorina Olomoguez (DUM), Dumaguete City
01-08-09 Elsy Arackal Inasu (ARA), Aracena
09-08-09 Hermianus Yoseph Sugi (Indo), Maumere, Flores
09-08-09 Simon Petrus Ta'a (Indo), Maumere, Flores
09-08-09 Stanislaus Jenambur (Indo), Maumere, Flores
09-08-09 Emanuel Ewaldus Krowa (Indo), Maumere, Flores
15-08-09 Jonathan Suescún Camacho (Cat-Ven), Caracas
15-08-09 Alexandre Cortez (Flum), Belo Horizonte
15-08-09 Wilson da Mota Fernandes (Flum), Belo Horizonte
15-08-09 Adailson Quintino (Flum), Belo Horizonte
15-08-09 Damião do Nascimento Souza (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 Fábio Rodrigues da Silva (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 José Leandro Alencar da Silva (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 Leonardo Ferreira Botelho (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 Ricardo de Vasconcelos Barbosa (Pern), Recife
15-08-09 Maria Josephine de Jong (ZEN), Zenderen
22-08-09 Marcelo de Jesus (Flum), São Paulo
27-08-09 Erik Wahyu Tjahjana (Indo), Malang
27-08-09 Ignatius Abadi (Indo), Malang
27-08-09 Samuel Anton Situmorang (Indo), Malang
27-08-09 Patricius Marianus Simanjuntak (Indo), Malang
27-08-09 Alfonsus Arpol Manik (Indo), Malang
Ordinatio Sacerdotalis
03-07-09 Victor Paul Farrugia (Mel), Valletta
03-07-09 Daniel Galea (Mel), Valletta
12-08-09 Paskalis Patut (Indo), Ruteng, Flores
20-08-09 Konradus Bata Laki (Indo), Mbay, Ende, Flores
20-08-09 Yanto Yohanes Ndona (Indo), Mbay, Ende, Flores
20-08-09 Sefrinus Nuwa (Indo), Mbay, Ende, Flores
03-07-09 Victor Paul Farrugia (Mel), Valletta
03-07-09 Daniel Galea (Mel), Valletta
12-08-09 Paskalis Patut (Indo), Ruteng, Flores
20-08-09 Konradus Bata Laki (Indo), Mbay, Ende, Flores
20-08-09 Yanto Yohanes Ndona (Indo), Mbay, Ende, Flores
20-08-09 Sefrinus Nuwa (Indo), Mbay, Ende, Flores
Published in
CITOC Archive
89/2009-31-08
16th Council of Provinces is beginning
16th Council of Provinces is beginning
The 16th Council of Provinces, which gathers the General Council, Prior Provincials, Commissaries General and Provincial, General Delegates and Presidents of the Regions will take place in the retreat house “Il Carmine”, San Felice del Benaco, Italy, from 3rd to 12th September 2009. The theme of the meeting will be:
Embracing his Gospel:
Carmelite community in faith, hope and love
Carmelite community in faith, hope and love
The principal speakers will be Archbishop Mons. Jean Louis Bruguès OP, Secretary of the Congregation of Catholic Education and ex bishop of Angers, France, Jean Vanier, community of L’Arche (France/Canada) and Fr. Danilo Castello MCCJ, Limone, Italia, professor of Dogma and ex president of the Missionary Institute, London
This theme has been chosen for two reasons: Firstly, “Embracing his Gospel” is taken from Article 2 of our Constitutions, words taken from the phrase: “Living in allegiance to Jesus Christ and embracing his Gospel as the supreme norm of our lives….”, and secondly, the General Chapter reflected on the topics of “Following Christ”, “prayer and prophecy in a changing world” but perhaps did not concentrate sufficiently on the issue of “community”. At this present moment in time, Pope Benedict has already written on the subject of Love and Hope, and there is an expectation of a letter on Faith. It is hoped that this Council of Provinces will address not just the theory of these virtues, but what a Carmelite community in faith, hope and love might realistically look like at the beginning of a new millennium. In the context of our own Constitutions, living in the midst of the people of today, “our communities will be authentic expressions of faith, hope and charity, and will be places conducive to full human development.” (CON 32)
88/2009-31-08
Fiftieth Anniversary of Crespi Carmelite High School, Los Angeles (USA)
Fiftieth Anniversary of Crespi Carmelite High School, Los Angeles (USA)
Last 21 and 22 August a series of events took place in our high school in Los Angeles at Crespi High School to mark its 50th anniversary. The main celebration was a solemn Eucharist in the Cathedral of Los Angeles at which the Prior General presided abd was assisted by Fr. Raul Maraví, Councillor General for the Americas, Fr. John Welch, Prior Provincial of the PCM province, Fr William Harry, Commissary Provincial for the West, Frs Thomas Schrader and Paul Henson, President and Principal respectively, as well as many other Carmelites. The auxiliary bishop of Los Angeles, Mons Gerald Wilkerson was also present and congratulated the Carmelites when he spoke to congregation.In his homily and subsequently in an article for the weekly paper The Tidings, the Prior General stressed the Order’s commitment to education and the importance of this work for Carmelites. After the Mass, there was a celebratory meal with co-workers and benefactors of the high school in the “Getty Villa”. After lunch there was a game of American football, a game at which Crespi has always excelled.
87/2009-28-08
Seminar and Workshop on environment, Malang, Indonesia
Seminar and Workshop on environment, Malang, Indonesia
The Justice and Peace Commission of the Carmelite Order in cooperation with the Indonesian Carmelite NGO held a seminar and workshop on the environment in Malang 1-2 August 2009. The main speakers were: Suryo Wardoyo, an activist in environmental movements and schools, Eka Budianta, an outstanding environmental thinker and motivator, and Fr. Piet Go Twan An O.Carm., (Indo), a moral theologian. Other speakers were Fr. Albert Herwanta O.Carm., Councilor General and chairman of the JPIC Commission of the Carmelite Order as the keynote speaker and Mr. Andrea Ventimiglia, a Sicilian Lay Carmelite, as the guest speaker. One hundred and twenty members of the Carmelite Family (religious and lay), religious (sisters) from other congregations, environmental practitioners and students from various universities participated.
This seminar was born out of the awareness that every human being is called to be a co-creator and invited by the Lord Himself to take care of and look after the environment. As a co-creator, every human being has the responsibility to keep and to renew the environment, so that it may remain healthy and friendly for following generations. This awareness drives Carmelites, especially the Indonesian Carmelites, to increase people’s awareness so that they may be interested in all kinds of environmental movements to make this world better.
It is expected that after attending this seminar and workshop the participants will have acquired a strong awareness of environmental problems and they will be able to appreciate a global plan to save the earth. The committee expects that at the end of this program there will be at least 10% of the total participants who would like to be the trainers on environmental matters. A follow-up program is being designed by the committee at the present and hopefully it will take place at the end of this year.
86/2009-27-08
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
19-08-09 P. Lorenzo Cubero Blázquez, Bet
24-08-09 Br. James Andrews, SEL
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
19-08-09 P. Lorenzo Cubero Blázquez, Bet
24-08-09 Br. James Andrews, SEL
85/2009-26-08
Exhibition on Saint Nuno of Santa Maria
Exhibition on Saint Nuno of Santa Maria
On the 14th August last in the Portugese city of Mafra, near Lisbon, a very interesting exhibition opened concerning St. Nuno of Saint Mary, in which various aspects of his life were on show. The exhibition was held in the infantry school of the Portuguese army, as Saint Nuno is patron of this branch of the army. The exhibition was opened by Major General José Luis Pinto Ramalho, head of the army. Present were the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. and Fr. Agostinho Castro, O.Carm, Commissary General of Portugal who also presided at the Eucharistic celebration. Also present were Fr. Ricardo Rainho, O.Carm and several civil and military authorities.
Various sections of the exhibition deal with the battle of liberation, with virtual reproductions of the Constable, with the foundation of sanctuaries and convents, with miniature reproduction figures, with the Portuguese Scout Movement of which Saint Nuno is patron, and with his Carmelite life. The last section was prepared by the Carmelites of our General Commissariat.
84/2009-24-08
Initial Formation Programme in the Holy Land
Initial Formation Programme in the Holy Land
The International Formation Commission of the Order organized a two-week experiential programme, entitled “In the footsteps of our forebears”, in the Holy Land for those in initial formation from 22nd July to 7th August, 2009. Thirty-six students from around the world took part in the programme, together with three members of the Formation Commission. Also present were Fr. Raúl Maraví, O.Carm. Councillor General for the Americas and Fr. Alexander Vella, O.Carm. (Mel) who directed and guided the group throughout the visit. The programme included talks on various Carmelite themes and visits to the important sites.
In each of the places visited there was a presentation, a reading from the appropriate Biblical or Order text, and time for personal prayer and reflection. The first week took place on Mount Carmel with the Discalced at Stella Maris. A marked feature of this first week was the warm hospitality of the Discalced friars, nuns and sisters. The second week was based in Jerusalem concluding with Mass celebrated by the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem (see CITOC-online 81/2009). The Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. joined the programme for the second week contributing to the presentations, and participating in the wonderful fraternity generated by the group.
83/2009-13-08
Titus Brandsma Awardees Philippines 2009 for Press Freedom and Journalism
Titus Brandsma Awardees Philippines 2009 for Press Freedom and Journalism
Philippine Daily Inquirer columnist Patricia Evangelista and broadcast journalist Howie Severino have been named recipients of the Titus Brandsma Award-Philippines for journalism, while slain journalists Edgar Damalerio and Marlene Esperat were honored posthumously by the same body for their fearless fight for press freedom.
Titus Brandsma Award-Philippines is the country’s version of the international Titus Brandsma Award given by the "Union Catholique Internationale de la Presse", the world forum of professionals in secular and religious media.
During the awarding ceremony, held at the Titus Brandsma Center, Quezon City, Philippines, on 29th of July 2009, the address of welcome was given by the Commissary General Fr. Artemio D. Jusayan, O.Carm. and the keynote address "Titus Brandsma: Martyr of Press Freedom" by Fr. Richard Copsey, O.Carm. (Brit).
Titus Brandsma Award-Philippines is the country’s version of the international Titus Brandsma Award given by the "Union Catholique Internationale de la Presse", the world forum of professionals in secular and religious media.
During the awarding ceremony, held at the Titus Brandsma Center, Quezon City, Philippines, on 29th of July 2009, the address of welcome was given by the Commissary General Fr. Artemio D. Jusayan, O.Carm. and the keynote address "Titus Brandsma: Martyr of Press Freedom" by Fr. Richard Copsey, O.Carm. (Brit).
82/2009-11-08
International Meeting of the Donum Dei Fraternity
International Meeting of the Donum Dei Fraternity
The Missionary Family Donum Dei has held an international meeting at Sassone (Rome) of their associate members called "La Fraternità Donum Dei". It began on the evening of 16th July last, the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, with a Eucharistic celebration led by Fr. Terence Cyr, O.Carm. (Gal), who was their spiritual guide. Present were the Vice-General Fr. Christian Körner, O.Carm. and the Councillor General, Fr. John Keating, O.Carm.
The 166 participants, who comprised adults, young people, and children from France, Italy, Burkina Faso, Peru, Argentina, Nouméa, Wallis and Fortuna, sought to deepen their understanding of the specific charism of Donum Dei within the Carmelite Third Order. They were very pleased also to be able to visit the tomb of their founder, Fr. Marcel Roussel-Galle in the Basilica of S. Martino ai Monti, whose remains had been transferred there on 22nd of December 2008.
The 166 participants, who comprised adults, young people, and children from France, Italy, Burkina Faso, Peru, Argentina, Nouméa, Wallis and Fortuna, sought to deepen their understanding of the specific charism of Donum Dei within the Carmelite Third Order. They were very pleased also to be able to visit the tomb of their founder, Fr. Marcel Roussel-Galle in the Basilica of S. Martino ai Monti, whose remains had been transferred there on 22nd of December 2008.
81/2009-09-08
Symbolic presentation of the Carmelite Rule at Jerusalem
Symbolic presentation of the Carmelite Rule at Jerusalem
At the conclusion of the formation course in the Holy Land (information on the course will be in a future CITOC-Online), the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Mons. Fouad Twal, solemnly presented the Carmelite Rule to the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm., and to each of the more than 40 Carmelite participants gathered for a moving Eucharistic celebration in the concathedral of the Holy City on the 6th of August. The Prior General, addressing the Patriarch asked him to symbolically present the Rule, with these words: 
“Your Excellency, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Mons. Fouad, 800 years ago your predecessor, Albert Avogadro, Saint Albert of Jerusalem, gave the hermits and penitents on Mount Carmel a Formula Vitae, the Rule of Carmel, and for 800 years it has inspired the Carmelite Family constantly generating groups, congregations and diverse experiences. It is a short text, simple, but profoundly rich, life-giving and inspirational. Today, 800 years later, this group of young Carmelites from around the world, in communion with the Church of Rome and with the Mother Church of Jerusalem, humbly asks that once again you symbolically present the Rule of Carmel in order to renew our fidelity to the Carmelite charism and our communion with the universal Church.”
The Patriarch presented the Rule to the Prior General with these words from the Prologue: Fouad, Dei gratia Jerosolimitanae Ecclesiae vocatus Patriarcha, dilectis in Christo filiis Fernando, et ceteris heremitis… During this moving ceremony, the Patriarch asked the Carmelites not to forget the Holy Land, their birthplace, which today is so wounded by violence and division.
80/2009-07-08
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
Iulius 2009
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
Iulius 2009
Professio Temporanea
16-05-09 Mary Jill Recososa Boholi (GUI), Guiguinto
09-07-09 Angelus Marius More (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Fidelis Nili (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Adrianus Katan Daton (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Yohanes Didinong Lange (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Desideramus Bitan (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Yeremias Dolu (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Kristoforus Buga Ledor (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Kornelis Siprianus Kaju (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Oktavianus Tiwu Setu (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Ronaldus Don Piran (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Ignatius Azevedo Japi Joao (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Atanasius Mariyanto Eka (Indo), Flores
16-07-09 Oscar Geoffroy Sondo (Bet), Bobo Dioulasso
16-05-09 Mary Jill Recososa Boholi (GUI), Guiguinto
09-07-09 Angelus Marius More (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Fidelis Nili (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Adrianus Katan Daton (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Yohanes Didinong Lange (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Desideramus Bitan (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Yeremias Dolu (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Kristoforus Buga Ledor (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Kornelis Siprianus Kaju (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Oktavianus Tiwu Setu (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Ronaldus Don Piran (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Ignatius Azevedo Japi Joao (Indo), Flores
09-07-09 Atanasius Mariyanto Eka (Indo), Flores
16-07-09 Oscar Geoffroy Sondo (Bet), Bobo Dioulasso
Professio Sollemne
24-05-09 Maria da Cruz Cunha (MON), Moncorvo
06-06.09 M Jesusa Rosacay Buendia (BUR), Burgos
26-07-09 M. Anna Visalli (OST); Ostuni
24-05-09 Maria da Cruz Cunha (MON), Moncorvo
06-06.09 M Jesusa Rosacay Buendia (BUR), Burgos
26-07-09 M. Anna Visalli (OST); Ostuni
Ordinatio Sacerdotalis
11-07-09 José Manuel Granados Rivera (Bet), Málaga
11-07-09 José Manuel Granados Rivera (Bet), Málaga
79/2009-05-08
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
17-06-09 P. Bernard Panek, Pol
21-07-09 Sr. M. Inés López Rodriguez, FON
29-07-09 P. Lukasz Semik, Pol
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
17-06-09 P. Bernard Panek, Pol
21-07-09 Sr. M. Inés López Rodriguez, FON
29-07-09 P. Lukasz Semik, Pol
78/2009-25-07
Provincial Chapter of the Province of Indonesia
Provincial Chapter of the Province of Indonesia
During the Provincial Chapter of the Province of Indonesia held on 20-27 July 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Ignatius Joko Purnomo, O.Carm.
Vice Prior Provincial: Fr. Dionysius Kosasih, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Henricus Suwaji, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Antonius Kristiyanto Gunawan, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Hugo Susdiyanto, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Stefanus Florianus Buyung, O.Carm.
Prior Provincial: Fr. Ignatius Joko Purnomo, O.Carm.
Vice Prior Provincial: Fr. Dionysius Kosasih, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Henricus Suwaji, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Antonius Kristiyanto Gunawan, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Hugo Susdiyanto, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Stefanus Florianus Buyung, O.Carm.
77/2009-21-07
Preparing to Celebrate the Seven Hundredth Anniversary of the Ordinal of Sibert di Beka
Preparing to Celebrate the Seven Hundredth Anniversary of the Ordinal of Sibert di Beka
From 6 to 9 July a group of liturgists and historians met in the Curia to examine the impact and significance of Sibert de Beka’s Ordinal which was issued in 1312 to ensure liturgical uniformity in the Order as a whole. This work is considered to be of great importance in establishing Carmelite liturgical identity at a time when the Order was emerging from a difficult period of debate and discussion. Dr Arie Kallenberg, Fr James Boyce and Dr Cristina Dondi gave the main papers, while Fr. Paul Chandler and Fr. Chris O’Donnell helped the group to think about future plans. It was decided to recommend to the General Council that a Pastoral Congress on Carmelite liturgy today should be held in 2012 with a view to giving our liturgy a more Carmelite tone and content. Other participants included Frs Giovanni Grosso, Giuseppe Midili, Désiré Unen, Edmund Caruana, John Keating and Kevin Alban.
76/2009-20-07
Cardinal’s visit to the Carmelite Priory in Mdina, Malta
Cardinal’s visit to the Carmelite Priory in Mdina, Malta
On Tuesday June 30, 2009, Cardinal Ennio Antonelli, the Pope’s Special Envoy to Malta for the closure of the Pauline Year, visited the Carmelite church and museum in Mdina, Malta. The Cardinal was accompanied by the Apostolic Nuncio in Malta and members from his Delegation. Card. Antonelli was welcomed at the Priory by the Prior Provincial Fr Michael Farrugia O.Carm., the Prior of the Mdina community Fr Alexander Vella O.Carm., the members of the same community, and by Fr Charlò Camilleri on behalf of the Carmelite Institute – Malta.
75/2009-18-07
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
02-07-09 Sr. Teresita López Serrano, UTR
17-07-09 P. Joseph Linus Ryan, Hib
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
02-07-09 Sr. Teresita López Serrano, UTR
17-07-09 P. Joseph Linus Ryan, Hib
74/2009-15-07
Flos Carmeli,
vitis florigera,
splendor caeli,
Virgo puerpera singularis.
Mater mitis, sed viri nescia,
Mater mitis, sed viri nescia,
Carmelitis esto propitia, stella maris.
IN SOLLEMNITATE B.V. MARIAE DE MONTE CARMELI
Fernando Prior Generalis et Consilium Generale
16.VII.2009
16.VII.2009
73/2009-12-07
Activities of the Prior General
Activities of the Prior General
Apart from attending the Provincial Chapters of Italy, Saint Elias (New York) and Ireland, accompanied by the respective Councillors General, the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. gave the concluding conference of CIBI (Carmelite Institute of Britain and Ireland) in Dublin at “Avila” the house of the Discalced Carmelites, on 20th June, and also on 21st June in the parish of the English Martyrs, Walworth, London. The theme of the conference was: “The Carmelite Community of the Rule, a reconciled and reconciling community.”
In Paris, from 27th to 30th June, he participated in a meeting organized by “Casa Sefarad” of Madrid, in which various bishops, rabbis, representatives of various other Christian confessions, politicians of different parties and experts in Judeo-Christian relations participated. The meeting concluded with a reception given by the Auxiliary Bishop of Paris and with an inter-confessional ceremony at the Shoah Memorial.
From 1st to 4th July he participated at the sixteenth meeting of the Carmelite Family of the Iberian Region, which took place at Tales (Castellón) Spain. This year the meeting was organized by the Hermanas de la Virgen María del Monte Carmelo (HVMMC) on the theme. “Prophets and witnesses in our world”. The Prior General gave a conference on Titus Brandsma as Carmelite model (for religious and laity) for the twenty-first century. More than 140 people participated. Lastly, on the 6th July, marking the 50th Anniversary of the death of Mother Asunción Soler founder of “Carmelitas del Sagrado Corazón”, he concelebrated at a Eucharist with the bishop of Malaga. In his homily the Prior General underlined the importance of the modern women’s congregations in the spread of our charism and of the Carmelite Family throughout the world. The Eucharist was the culmination of the first international gathering of Carmelite laity of Mother Asunción, with participants from Mozambique, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Portugal, Spain and Venezuela, and was celebrated in the chapel of Limonar di Malaga College, where Mother Asunción is buried.
In Paris, from 27th to 30th June, he participated in a meeting organized by “Casa Sefarad” of Madrid, in which various bishops, rabbis, representatives of various other Christian confessions, politicians of different parties and experts in Judeo-Christian relations participated. The meeting concluded with a reception given by the Auxiliary Bishop of Paris and with an inter-confessional ceremony at the Shoah Memorial.
From 1st to 4th July he participated at the sixteenth meeting of the Carmelite Family of the Iberian Region, which took place at Tales (Castellón) Spain. This year the meeting was organized by the Hermanas de la Virgen María del Monte Carmelo (HVMMC) on the theme. “Prophets and witnesses in our world”. The Prior General gave a conference on Titus Brandsma as Carmelite model (for religious and laity) for the twenty-first century. More than 140 people participated. Lastly, on the 6th July, marking the 50th Anniversary of the death of Mother Asunción Soler founder of “Carmelitas del Sagrado Corazón”, he concelebrated at a Eucharist with the bishop of Malaga. In his homily the Prior General underlined the importance of the modern women’s congregations in the spread of our charism and of the Carmelite Family throughout the world. The Eucharist was the culmination of the first international gathering of Carmelite laity of Mother Asunción, with participants from Mozambique, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Portugal, Spain and Venezuela, and was celebrated in the chapel of Limonar di Malaga College, where Mother Asunción is buried.
72/2009-11-07
Fr. Anthony Cilia O. Carm. finishes his period of service in the Curia and returns to his province
Fr. Anthony Cilia O. Carm. finishes his period of service in the Curia and returns to his province
During the Maltese Provincial Chapter celebrated last April, Father Anthony Cilia was named Provincial Secretary and Assistant to the newly-elected prior provincial. Father Anthony is well known to a large number of members of the Carmelite Family for his 22 years of service to the Order in the field of communications (including 14 years as director of CITOC and 13 as webmaster).
Fr. Anthony arrived in Rome at the Curia house Easter 1987 with the principal task of publishing CITOC in the three official languages of the Order. In 1996 the General Council entrusted him with the running of the Order’s new web site which was launched on 28 February 1998. In 1999 the CITOC bulletin was published for the first time on the internet.
In 2001 after many years’ work in these two fields, Fr. Anthony left CITOC in order to work full time on the Order’s web site, www. ocarm.org which he updated and recently completely renewed. As well as organising the transfer from the old site to the new one, Fr Anthony had been working on making the catalogue of the Carmelite Library available on-line.
During his time in Rome, Fr. Anthony was a member of the Commission for Ongoing Formation (1986-1995) and of the Commission for Communication (2001-2009). He represented the Order on PCN (Peace Communication Network) from 1996 to 2009 and a member of the Administrative Council from 2003 to 2008.
On 20 July Fr Anthony will return to his native Province to begin a new period of service as Provincial Secretary, Assistant Provincial and Prior of the community of Sliema.
We offer him our gratitude for his long and assiduous service to the Carmelite Family and we wish him every success in his new duties in Malta.
Fr. Anthony arrived in Rome at the Curia house Easter 1987 with the principal task of publishing CITOC in the three official languages of the Order. In 1996 the General Council entrusted him with the running of the Order’s new web site which was launched on 28 February 1998. In 1999 the CITOC bulletin was published for the first time on the internet.
In 2001 after many years’ work in these two fields, Fr. Anthony left CITOC in order to work full time on the Order’s web site, www. ocarm.org which he updated and recently completely renewed. As well as organising the transfer from the old site to the new one, Fr Anthony had been working on making the catalogue of the Carmelite Library available on-line.
During his time in Rome, Fr. Anthony was a member of the Commission for Ongoing Formation (1986-1995) and of the Commission for Communication (2001-2009). He represented the Order on PCN (Peace Communication Network) from 1996 to 2009 and a member of the Administrative Council from 2003 to 2008.
On 20 July Fr Anthony will return to his native Province to begin a new period of service as Provincial Secretary, Assistant Provincial and Prior of the community of Sliema.
We offer him our gratitude for his long and assiduous service to the Carmelite Family and we wish him every success in his new duties in Malta.
71/2009-03-07
Promulgation of the Decree of the Congregation for Causes of Saints concerning the miracle attributed to Venerable Angelo Paoli
Promulgation of the Decree of the Congregation for Causes of Saints concerning the miracle attributed to Venerable Angelo Paoli
This morning, 3rd July 2009, the Holy Father, Benedict XVI, received in a private audience the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, the Archbishop Angelo Amato, SDB. During the course of the audience the Holy Father authorized the Congregation to promulgate the Decree concerning a miracle attributed to the intercession of Venerable Angelo Paoli, (1642-1720), Italian national and Professed Priest of our Order.The Holy See, in consultation with the Order and the Bishops concerned, will set a date and a place for the Beatification.
70/2009-01-07
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
Iunius 2009
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
Iunius 2009
Initium Novitiatus
07-06-09 John Howell (PCM), Middletown
07-06-09 Edgar Varela (PCM), Middletown
07-06-09 Joseph Vinh Quang Nguyen (SEL), Middletown
07-06-09 Francis Xavier Khoa Van Nguyen (SEL), Middletown
07-06-09 Dominic Hung Duc Nguyen (SEL), Middletown
07-06-09 Paul Hung Van Tran (SEL), MIddletown
07-06-09 John Howell (PCM), Middletown
07-06-09 Edgar Varela (PCM), Middletown
07-06-09 Joseph Vinh Quang Nguyen (SEL), Middletown
07-06-09 Francis Xavier Khoa Van Nguyen (SEL), Middletown
07-06-09 Dominic Hung Duc Nguyen (SEL), Middletown
07-06-09 Paul Hung Van Tran (SEL), MIddletown
Professio Temporanea
08-06-09 Marc Bell (PCM), Middletown
08-06-09 Allen Martin (PCM), Middletown
08-06-09 Raphael Nhat Quoc Tran (SEL), Middletown
08-06-09 Marc Bell (PCM), Middletown
08-06-09 Allen Martin (PCM), Middletown
08-06-09 Raphael Nhat Quoc Tran (SEL), Middletown
Professio Sollemne
14-06-09 Luca Sciarelli (Ita), Roma
27-06-09 Wilma Custodio Galang (CAB), Cabanatuan City
29-06-09 M. Fiamma Piola (VET), Vetralla
14-06-09 Luca Sciarelli (Ita), Roma
27-06-09 Wilma Custodio Galang (CAB), Cabanatuan City
29-06-09 M. Fiamma Piola (VET), Vetralla
Ordinatio Diaconalis
11-06-09 Honoré Kamathe Kombi (Ita), Mulo
11-06-09 Jean-Paul Wakunga (Ita), Mulo
20-06-09 Anil John Kaiprampadan (Ind), Karukutty
11-06-09 Honoré Kamathe Kombi (Ita), Mulo
11-06-09 Jean-Paul Wakunga (Ita), Mulo
20-06-09 Anil John Kaiprampadan (Ind), Karukutty
Ordinatio Sacerdotalis
11-06-09 Edouard Ucim Afuru (Ita), Mulo
27-06-09 Rubén Darío Rodríguez Ramos (Arag), Santo Domingo
27-06-09 Pedro María Rodríguez Rodríguez (Arag), Santo Domingo
11-06-09 Edouard Ucim Afuru (Ita), Mulo
27-06-09 Rubén Darío Rodríguez Ramos (Arag), Santo Domingo
27-06-09 Pedro María Rodríguez Rodríguez (Arag), Santo Domingo
Published in
CITOC Archive
55/2009-25-06
Meeting of the European section of the Carmelite NGO
From 2-3 May 2009 a meeting of the European section of the Carmelite NGO took place at Aylesford, Great Britain. The participants came from the Carmelite provinces of Great Britain, Ireland, Germany, Spain and The Netherlands. Also present was Sr. Jane Remson (COLMC), the main representative of the Carmelite NGO, and Sr. Anna Theresa Nyadombo (HOLMC) from Zimbabwe. After the reports of their different activities and assistances in various countries of the world, the participants in the meeting focused on the two main issues of the Carmelite NGO’s attention: Human Trafficking and Climate Change. In relation to climate change the NGO in Europe plans to conduct a pilot test in The Netherlands and Germany to see how ecological the Carmelite communities are. Depending on the success of this survey/inquiry the test may be conducted in other provinces in Europe.
The European section of the Carmelite NGO would like to have the representation and participation of all the provinces of Europe. Fr. Arie Kuil O.Carm (Neer), the European representative on the Carmelite NGO committee, will make contact with the provinces as time goes on to provide information and encourage participation.
The Carmelite NGO presents Carmelite Spirituality in the UN and mediates UN ideals to the Carmelite Family. It is a way to remain loyal to our tradition and to put faith into action.
Meeting of the European section of the Carmelite NGO
From 2-3 May 2009 a meeting of the European section of the Carmelite NGO took place at Aylesford, Great Britain. The participants came from the Carmelite provinces of Great Britain, Ireland, Germany, Spain and The Netherlands. Also present was Sr. Jane Remson (COLMC), the main representative of the Carmelite NGO, and Sr. Anna Theresa Nyadombo (HOLMC) from Zimbabwe. After the reports of their different activities and assistances in various countries of the world, the participants in the meeting focused on the two main issues of the Carmelite NGO’s attention: Human Trafficking and Climate Change. In relation to climate change the NGO in Europe plans to conduct a pilot test in The Netherlands and Germany to see how ecological the Carmelite communities are. Depending on the success of this survey/inquiry the test may be conducted in other provinces in Europe.
The European section of the Carmelite NGO would like to have the representation and participation of all the provinces of Europe. Fr. Arie Kuil O.Carm (Neer), the European representative on the Carmelite NGO committee, will make contact with the provinces as time goes on to provide information and encourage participation.
The Carmelite NGO presents Carmelite Spirituality in the UN and mediates UN ideals to the Carmelite Family. It is a way to remain loyal to our tradition and to put faith into action.
Venerable Angelo Paoli on the way to beatification
Today, 26 May 2009, the Ordinary Congregation of Cardinals and Bishops gave their positive opinion on the miracle brought about through the intercession of Ven. Angelo Paoli. The is a key step towards beatification. Now Archbishop Angelo Amato, will present the results of all the investigations to his Holiness and ask that a decree be prepared and published. Only after papal assent and decision is the whole process finished and can the beatification be organised.
Ven. Angelo Paoli (b. Argigliano 1642, d. Rome 1720) he became a Carmelite in 1660 and was ordained in 1667. After living in various houses in the Tuscan Province he was called in 1687 to Rome by the Prior General Paul of St Ignatius and lived there until his death in the house of S. Martino ai Monti, where he is buried. He was a man with an intense spiritual life and enamoured of the Virgin, wherever he was, he committed himself to serving the poor and the sick, organising for them service which were innovative and efficient. Let us hope that soon we will able to celebrate another great example of Carmelite holiness, who may have lived a long time ago, but whose message is relevant for today. May it help us to be as ready as Angelo Paoli to recognize Christ in those on the edges of society and to serve them with dedication and love.
First Meeting of the General Theological Commission
The General Theological Commission of the Order held its first meeting from 18 to 20 May in the Curia House in Rome. Under the guidance of its chairman, Fr Giovanni Grosso, representatives of the various general commissions of the Order, as well as members nominated directly by the General Council, worked together. The Commission began by reading the objectives contained in the “Global Plan 2007 – 2013”. After an initial discussion of the work of the Commission, the reports from the individual commissions were considered from the point of view of the work of coordination and cooperation which they create. Some criteria for their work were also given. The Theological Commission agreed to continue along the lines indicated by the 2007 General Chapter which has its theme “In obsequio Jesu Christi, praying and prophetic communities in a changing world”, as well as other themes such as crisis –kairos, justice and peace, prophecy, mystagogy and so on.
58/2009-04-06
Letter of Protest from the Prior General to the Spanish Authorities
Letter of Protest from the Prior General to the Spanish Authorities
The Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millan Romeral O. Carm, has sent the Spanish authorities a vigorous letter of protest for the unjustified detention in Madrid of Fr. Francisco Manoel de Oliveira O. Carm., the Commissary Provincial of Parana in Brazil. Frei Francisco was on his way to the provincial chapter of the Upper German province of which the commissariat is a part. His flight stopped off in Madrid – Barajas where he was detained for more than thirty hours on the grounds that he did not have the necessary documents to proceed to Germany. Despite various attempts to intervene on the part of the Prior General, and despite the fact these documents had never been required before on other visits to Europe nor had anyone in Brazil advised Fr. Francisco that he needed them, he was sent back to Brazil. The Upper German Chapter has also sent a letter of protest to the Spanish Embassy in Germany.
Meeting of the organizing committee of the European “Pilgrimage of Hope”
The committee organizing the Carmelite Youth “Pilgrimage of Hope” to Rome in July 2010 met in Rome for the first time on the 29th and 30th May 2009. The pilgrimage for young people between the ages of 18 and 25, who are associated with the communities of Carmelite friars across Europe, will take place at “Il Carmelo” in Sassone just outside of Rome, from 19th to 25th July 2010. The members of the committee are the Councillors General, John Keating, O.Carm. for Europe and Raúl Maraví, O.Carm. for Youth, David Oliver, O.Carm. (Arag) is the chairperson, also Thomas Feiten, O.Carm. (GerS), Luca Sciarelli, O.Carm. (Ita), Dave Twohig O.Carm. (Hib), and Ms Maria José Varela and Mr. Juan José Seva (both from Spain). The idea of a pilgrimage to the Christian and Carmelite sites of Rome was first presented in a letter to the European provincials in October 2008, and following a positive response from them, this committee was established. The pilgrimage is the first stage of a new European involvement of young people in the life of the Order, and the next stage will be to work towards the World Youth Day in Madrid in 2011. As the committee continues its work, further information will be posted on the Order’s website in the coming months.
Provincial Chapter of the Upper German Province
During the Provincial Chapter of the Upper German Province held on 1-6 June 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Dieter Lankes, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Roland Hinzer, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Br. Günter Benker, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Wolfgang Schumacher, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Michael Plattig, O.Carm.
Provincial Chapter of the Italian Province
During the Provincial Chapter of the Italian Province held on 1-6 June 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Gian Domenico Meloni, O.Carm.
Vice Prior Provincial: Fr. Luca Cau O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Roberto Toni, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Chelo Dhebbi Telesphore, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Lucio M. Zappatore, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Agostino Gelli, O.Carm.
Prior Provincial: Fr. Dieter Lankes, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Roland Hinzer, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Br. Günter Benker, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Wolfgang Schumacher, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Michael Plattig, O.Carm.
Provincial Chapter of the Italian Province
During the Provincial Chapter of the Italian Province held on 1-6 June 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Gian Domenico Meloni, O.Carm.
Vice Prior Provincial: Fr. Luca Cau O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Roberto Toni, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Chelo Dhebbi Telesphore, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Lucio M. Zappatore, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Agostino Gelli, O.Carm.
61/2009-08-06
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
Maius 2009
Initium Novitiatus
01-05-09 Riebo Rietema (Neer), Boxmeer
Professio Temporanea
14-05-09 Lijo Jose Kavanukattil (Ind), Kartikulam
23-05-09 Keth V. Arriba (Phil), Quezon City
23-05-09 Irvin S. Mangmang (Phil), Quezon City
23-05-09 Gibson Albert (CSTSA), Quezon City
Professio Sollemne
23-04-09 Antonio Ruiz Perez (Arag), Vila-Real
02-05-09 Antonio Mascali (Ita), Castellina
02-05-09 Albeiro Romero Martinez (Ita), Castellina
02-05-09 Nestor Alfredo Franco Franco (Ita), Castellina
14-05-09 Anil John Kaipranpadan (Ind), Kartikulam
23-05-09 Jonathan Serofia (Phil), Quezon City
Ordinatio Diaconalis
02-05-09 Marlon Mateo (PCM) Washington
16-05-09 Mateusz Otreba (Pol), Krakow
24-05-09 Jonathan Serofia (Phil), Quezon City
Initium Novitiatus
01-05-09 Riebo Rietema (Neer), Boxmeer
Professio Temporanea
14-05-09 Lijo Jose Kavanukattil (Ind), Kartikulam
23-05-09 Keth V. Arriba (Phil), Quezon City
23-05-09 Irvin S. Mangmang (Phil), Quezon City
23-05-09 Gibson Albert (CSTSA), Quezon City
Professio Sollemne
23-04-09 Antonio Ruiz Perez (Arag), Vila-Real
02-05-09 Antonio Mascali (Ita), Castellina
02-05-09 Albeiro Romero Martinez (Ita), Castellina
02-05-09 Nestor Alfredo Franco Franco (Ita), Castellina
14-05-09 Anil John Kaipranpadan (Ind), Kartikulam
23-05-09 Jonathan Serofia (Phil), Quezon City
Ordinatio Diaconalis
02-05-09 Marlon Mateo (PCM) Washington
16-05-09 Mateusz Otreba (Pol), Krakow
24-05-09 Jonathan Serofia (Phil), Quezon City
Ordinatio Sacerdotalis
03-05-09 Emmanuel Lukengadio Medina (Ital), Kinshasa
16-05-09 Jakub Walczak (Pol), Krakow
22-05-09 Peter Hoang Nguyen (SEL), Washington
22-05-09 Jesus Larios Avila (PCM), Colima, Mexico
24-05-09 Joseph Thien Nguyen, (SEL) Philippines
30-05-09 Tony Mazurkiewicz (PCM), Chicago
62/2009-14-06
Provincial Chapter of the American Province of Saint Elias
During the Provincial Chapter of the American Province of Saint Elias held on 9-12 June 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Mario Esposito, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Paul Denault, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Lucian Beltzner, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. John Horan , O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Timothy Ennis, O.Carm.
03-05-09 Emmanuel Lukengadio Medina (Ital), Kinshasa
16-05-09 Jakub Walczak (Pol), Krakow
22-05-09 Peter Hoang Nguyen (SEL), Washington
22-05-09 Jesus Larios Avila (PCM), Colima, Mexico
24-05-09 Joseph Thien Nguyen, (SEL) Philippines
30-05-09 Tony Mazurkiewicz (PCM), Chicago
Provincial Chapter of the American Province of Saint Elias
During the Provincial Chapter of the American Province of Saint Elias held on 9-12 June 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Mario Esposito, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Paul Denault, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Lucian Beltzner, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. John Horan , O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Timothy Ennis, O.Carm.
USG Assembly and Vatican Radio
From 27 to 29 May the Prior General took part in the 72nd General Assembly of the Union of Superiors General (USG) held in the “Salesianum”, Rome. The meeting dealt with the topic of interculturality in the religious life. Cardinal Oscar Rodríguez Maradiaga, archbishop of Tegucigalpa (Honduras) gave the keynote address in which he underlined the need to recognize the multi-cultural nature of the Church which is developing ever more strongly in cultures outside Europe. This will bring about a paradigm shift and an ever more radical application of the concept of “inculturation”. Other speakers developed ideas relating to this one which is so important for the future of religious life ands the Church itself.
The Prior General also dealt with this and other topic regarding Carmel today in a long interview with the journalist Patricia Jáuregui of the Spanish section of Vatican Radio. The interview can be heard on the Vatican Radio web page (Spanish section, consecrated life) or directly following this link:
http://www.radiovaticana.org/spagnolo/vida%20consagrada.html
Provincial Chapter of the Irish Province
During the Provincial Chapter of the Irish Province held on 14-18 June 2009 following earlier elections were confirmed:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Martin Kilmurray, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Richard Byrne, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Joseph Mothersill, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Michael Troy, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Br. Patrick Mullins, O.Carm.
Launch of Festschrift in honour of Fr. Emanuele Boaga
On Saturday 30 May in the main hall of the Teresianum in Rome, a volume of essays edited in honour of Fr. Emanuele Boaga, General Archivist was launched to mark his 50th anniversary of priestly ordination. The tome of 741 pages was edited by Frs. Giovanni Grosso and Wilmar Santin and is entitled Memoriam fecit mirabilium Dei (Edizioni Carmelitane, Roma 2009. [Textus et Studia Historica Carmelitana, 31]). It brings together work from 36 specialists from various countries and also contains a bibliography of Fr. Boaga’s writings up to 2008. During the launch, which was introduced by Fr. Aniano Álvarez Suárez, OCD, principal of the Teresianum faculty, apart from the editors, Fr Luis Boriello and the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral also spoke and Fr Boaga thanked everyone for their participation. There were some 90 people present, from both branches of the Family, as well as Fr Boaga’s relatives and friends, and all took place in a pleasant family atmosphere whose simplicity took nothing away from the depth of the subject matter covered.
8th annual meeting of the Carmelite Librarians’ Association in Madrid
The 8th annual meeting of the Carmelite Librarians’ Association will be held in Madrid, Spain, from 30th to 3rd July, 2009.
The aim of the Association is basically to encourage the promotion of the cultural level of the Order. Libraries, and Carmelite libraries in particular, are essential structures in the cultural life of the Order, especially in the area of formation. The Association attempts to coordinate, share and distribute library material and is giving special importance to digitizing catalogues, putting them on line, sharing informatics, etc. It is a long-range aspiration that the whole Carmelite Order will eventually be networked and thus able to share all library and Carmelite material.
Also participating at the meeting in Madrid will Fr. Raúl Maraví, O.Carm., General Councillor for the Americas, and Fr. Giovanni Grosso O.Carm., President of the Carmelite Institute, Rome. Apart from the working sessions the participants will have the opportunity to visit some of the more important places and especially some important libraries of the Spanish Capital.
Mons. Filippo Iannone O. Carm. appointed bishop of Sora-Aquino-Pontecorvo (Italy)
On 19 June 2009, Pope Benedict XVI appointed bishop of Sora-Aquino-Pontecorvo (Italy) Mons. Filippo Iannone O.Carm. (Brun.) translating him from the titular see of Nebbi which he had occupied as auxiliary bishop of Naples. He was appointed as auxiliary on 12 April 2001 and ordained bishop on 26 May.
Currently Mons. Iannone is consultor at the Congregation for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, member of the Council for Juridical Affairs and President of the Committee for Church Buildings of the Italian Bishops’ Conference.
To Mons. Filippo Iannone we offer our warmest congratulations on behalf of the whole Carmelite Family.
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
31-05-09 P. Miquel Basagañas i Figueras, Cat
24-06-09 P. Sebastian Meyer, PCM
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, was held 22 June 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Antonia Acevedo Lorenzo, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. de la Trinidad Rodríguez Barbosa, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Lourdes M. Avilés Calderon, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Lourdes M. Avilés Calderon, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. de la Trinidad Rodríguez Barbosa, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Sarah María Cedano, O. Carm.
46/2009-05-05
Meetings of European Provincials
Meetings of European Provincials
To coincide with the canonization of Saint Nuño of Saint Mary (26th April), the Councillor General for Europe, John Keating, O.Carm. organized a meeting of the provincials of the Southern European area in Rome on the 28th April 2009. Present were provincials from Italy, the Iberian Region, Malta and the General Delegate for France. The Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. greeted the provincials at the start of the meeting, which was chaired by Fr. Raúl Maraví, O.Carm., Councillor General for the Americas.
In the light of the decision of the 2007 General Chapter to unite Europe into one geographical area, this meeting discussed the future structure of the southern area of Europe, the current issues effecting these provinces, formation, and especially the question of a common novitiate for the provinces bordering the Mediterranean. The meeting was a very positive one and it was decided to hold further meetings on a regular basis and to establish closer links with the Northern European Region.
The Roman meeting followed on from a meeting in Springiersbach, Germany from the 20th to 22nd April of the provincials of the Northern European Region, which was attended by the Councillor General for Europe. He also attended a meeting of the provincials of the Iberian Region on 10th March last in Madrid. Many issues were discussed at these meetings including those of declining numbers, vocations, dialogue with the secular culture of today, and the European Youth Pilgrimage of Hope planned for Rome in 2010.
47/2009-10-05
Meeting of the International Formation Commission
The International Formation Commission of the Order met in Rome on the 5th, 6th and 7th May 2009. Under the presidency of the Councillor General for Formation, John Keating, O.Carm., the commission heard reports from the Councillors General, Frs. Albertus Herwanta, Raúl Maraví and Désiré Unen Alimange and John Keating, on the state of formation in the Order around the world. The Commission prepared a strategic response to the issues presented by the Councillors General which will be submitted to the next meeting of the General Council. The commission also analyzed the responses from the provinces concerning the updating of the Ratio Institutionis Vitae Carmelitanae (RIVC). A draft text of the modifications to the Ratio will now be undertaken in preparation for the international meeting of formators to be held in the summer of 2010. Fr. Giovanni Grosso, O.Carm., President of Institutum Carmelitanum, also spoke to the commission about formation for future Carmelite studies and roles within the Order. The work of the commission concluded with a review of the updating work that had been done on the formation section of the Order’s website.
In the light of the decision of the 2007 General Chapter to unite Europe into one geographical area, this meeting discussed the future structure of the southern area of Europe, the current issues effecting these provinces, formation, and especially the question of a common novitiate for the provinces bordering the Mediterranean. The meeting was a very positive one and it was decided to hold further meetings on a regular basis and to establish closer links with the Northern European Region.
The Roman meeting followed on from a meeting in Springiersbach, Germany from the 20th to 22nd April of the provincials of the Northern European Region, which was attended by the Councillor General for Europe. He also attended a meeting of the provincials of the Iberian Region on 10th March last in Madrid. Many issues were discussed at these meetings including those of declining numbers, vocations, dialogue with the secular culture of today, and the European Youth Pilgrimage of Hope planned for Rome in 2010.
Meeting of the International Formation Commission
The International Formation Commission of the Order met in Rome on the 5th, 6th and 7th May 2009. Under the presidency of the Councillor General for Formation, John Keating, O.Carm., the commission heard reports from the Councillors General, Frs. Albertus Herwanta, Raúl Maraví and Désiré Unen Alimange and John Keating, on the state of formation in the Order around the world. The Commission prepared a strategic response to the issues presented by the Councillors General which will be submitted to the next meeting of the General Council. The commission also analyzed the responses from the provinces concerning the updating of the Ratio Institutionis Vitae Carmelitanae (RIVC). A draft text of the modifications to the Ratio will now be undertaken in preparation for the international meeting of formators to be held in the summer of 2010. Fr. Giovanni Grosso, O.Carm., President of Institutum Carmelitanum, also spoke to the commission about formation for future Carmelite studies and roles within the Order. The work of the commission concluded with a review of the updating work that had been done on the formation section of the Order’s website.
Workshop of the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Commission
From April 14th to April 17th in the Retreat House of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, El Salvador, the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Commission sponsored a workshop as part of its general preparation for the International Symposium on Peace and Justice to be held in 2011. During this process each region of the Order will be invited to reflect on the topic of environmental degradation and how our Carmelite Charism of simplicity of lifestyle and contemplation addresses this problem. This theme was organized by Fr. Eduardo Agosta Scarel (Cast) from Argentina.
In Latin America the issue of the marginalization of women is an important justice issue. The president of the Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (OEF), Mrs. Ildiko Tesak gave an impassioned plea for justice for women and specifically through access to credit. The NGO created by the Carmelites in El Salvador, The New Horizons for the Poor Foundation, gave a day of instruction on how the region can organize for common action on behalf of justice, peace and the integrity of creation. The main speakers from the foundation were Elmer Mendosa and David Blanchard (PCM).
The final day of the workshop included a dialogue between members of the Order, the Third Order and Carmelite sisters. The sisters shared their experiences as collaborators in the ministry of Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero and the years since, working alongside of the poor in often dangerous circumstances being voices for the voiceless and prophets in our times.
The participants were friars, members of the Third Order and representatives of four sisters communities.
49/2009-12-05
Annual Gathering of Prioresses of the Italian Monasteries
The annual gathering of the prioresses of the Italian monasteries was held from 4 to 6 May at "Il Carmelo", Sassone. There were fifteen nuns present, along with Fr. Christian Körner, Vice Prior General, Fr. Josef Jancar, the General Delegate for Nuns, Fr. Claudio Bellotti, prior provincial of the Italian province, and Fr. Alfredo Di Cerbo, Commissary General of the "La Bruna" commissariat. On the first evening, the Prior General joined the group to celebrate Mass and to greet the assembly. During the meeting the under secretary of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and the Institutes of Apostolic Life, Fr. Sebastiano Paciolla O. Cist., gave a conference on the concept of autonomy, its criteria and influence on life in monasteries. He also answered questions from the nuns, especially on a future federation in Italy, the observance of the cloister, and both initial and ongoing formation. Encouraged by these discussions, the prioresses expressed their willingness to begin in a concrete way a process which would lead to cooperation, which has already been practiced for some years, to a more official form in a federation.
50/2009-14-05
Provincial Chapter of the Province of Poland
During the Provincial Chapter of the Province of Poland held on 11-15 May 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Dariusz Borek, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Tadeusz Popiela, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Stanisław Wysocki, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Piotr Meczynski, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Roman Dabrowski, O.Carm.
51/2009-17-05
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
05-05-09 Sr. M. Carmen Luzón López, ANT
16-05-09 Sr. M. Gerarda Granatello, FIS
16-05-09 P. Joachim Snyder, SEL
52/2009-20-05
Chapter of the General Commissariat of S. Maria “La Bruna”
During the Chapter of the General Commissariat of S. Maria “La Bruna” held on 18-21 May 2009 were elected:
Commissary General: Fr. Alfredo Di Cerbo, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Michele Leccisotti, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Luciano Di Cerbo, O.Carm.
53/2009-21-05
Carmelite NGO Promotes a Faith Reflection on Climate Change
The Carmelite NGO announces a Faith Reflection on Climate Change in observance of World Environment Day, June 5, 2009. The focus of the Day of Prayer, with the methodology of a Faith Reflection on Climate Change, is to call attention to the spiritual challenge of the ecological crisis.
The Carmelite NGO is inviting people to join together in prayerful reflection on World Environment Day in June. According to “Earth and Faith: A Book of Reflection for Action,” a publication of the UN environment program, the ecological turmoil of our time draws us back to our religious traditions, to reflect on and celebrate the natural world in its most profound sense of mystery as a manifestation and experience of the sacred.
A booklet entitled “A Day of Prayer - A Faith Reflection on Climate Change” designed specifically for use on June 5th is being made available at no charge for anyone interested. The booklet provides a series of short reflections and suggested action plans.
To obtain a copy of the “A Day of Prayer” booklet, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your name and mailing address. Copies can also be downloaded from the website of the Carmelite NGO (carmelitengo.org).
The Carmelite NGO was affiliated to the Department of Public Information of the United Nations in December 2001. It is the representative body to the United Nations for the men and women around the world who are members of the Carmelite Order of the Catholic Church and the Order’s ministries.
Annual Gathering of Prioresses of the Italian Monasteries
The annual gathering of the prioresses of the Italian monasteries was held from 4 to 6 May at "Il Carmelo", Sassone. There were fifteen nuns present, along with Fr. Christian Körner, Vice Prior General, Fr. Josef Jancar, the General Delegate for Nuns, Fr. Claudio Bellotti, prior provincial of the Italian province, and Fr. Alfredo Di Cerbo, Commissary General of the "La Bruna" commissariat. On the first evening, the Prior General joined the group to celebrate Mass and to greet the assembly. During the meeting the under secretary of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and the Institutes of Apostolic Life, Fr. Sebastiano Paciolla O. Cist., gave a conference on the concept of autonomy, its criteria and influence on life in monasteries. He also answered questions from the nuns, especially on a future federation in Italy, the observance of the cloister, and both initial and ongoing formation. Encouraged by these discussions, the prioresses expressed their willingness to begin in a concrete way a process which would lead to cooperation, which has already been practiced for some years, to a more official form in a federation.
Provincial Chapter of the Province of Poland
During the Provincial Chapter of the Province of Poland held on 11-15 May 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Dariusz Borek, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Tadeusz Popiela, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Stanisław Wysocki, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Piotr Meczynski, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Roman Dabrowski, O.Carm.
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
05-05-09 Sr. M. Carmen Luzón López, ANT
16-05-09 Sr. M. Gerarda Granatello, FIS
16-05-09 P. Joachim Snyder, SEL
Chapter of the General Commissariat of S. Maria “La Bruna”
During the Chapter of the General Commissariat of S. Maria “La Bruna” held on 18-21 May 2009 were elected:
Commissary General: Fr. Alfredo Di Cerbo, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Michele Leccisotti, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Luciano Di Cerbo, O.Carm.
Carmelite NGO Promotes a Faith Reflection on Climate Change
The Carmelite NGO announces a Faith Reflection on Climate Change in observance of World Environment Day, June 5, 2009. The focus of the Day of Prayer, with the methodology of a Faith Reflection on Climate Change, is to call attention to the spiritual challenge of the ecological crisis.
The Carmelite NGO is inviting people to join together in prayerful reflection on World Environment Day in June. According to “Earth and Faith: A Book of Reflection for Action,” a publication of the UN environment program, the ecological turmoil of our time draws us back to our religious traditions, to reflect on and celebrate the natural world in its most profound sense of mystery as a manifestation and experience of the sacred.
A booklet entitled “A Day of Prayer - A Faith Reflection on Climate Change” designed specifically for use on June 5th is being made available at no charge for anyone interested. The booklet provides a series of short reflections and suggested action plans.
To obtain a copy of the “A Day of Prayer” booklet, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your name and mailing address. Copies can also be downloaded from the website of the Carmelite NGO (carmelitengo.org).
The Carmelite NGO was affiliated to the Department of Public Information of the United Nations in December 2001. It is the representative body to the United Nations for the men and women around the world who are members of the Carmelite Order of the Catholic Church and the Order’s ministries.
54/2009-23-05
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Aracena, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Aracena (Huelva), Spain, was held 21 May 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Remedios Álvarez Soriano, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Mercedes García Ontiveros, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Leonor Parrilla de la Cruz, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Rosario Galindo García, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Dolores Domínguez Pérez, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Dolores Domínguez Pérez, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Beatriz Prados Toledano, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. M. Leonor Parrilla de la Cruz, O. Carm.
Published in
CITOC Archive
32/2009-01-04
Return of the Carmelites to Manaus, Brazil
Return of the Carmelites to Manaus, Brazil
On 22 March 2009 Mons. Luiz Soares Vieira, archbishop of Manaus presided at a solemn Eucharist to celebrate the return of the Carmelites to Manaus in Amazonia after an absence of 157 years. Present were Raúl Maraví, O.Carm., General Councillor for the Americas, Francisco de Oliveira, O.Carm., Commissary Provincial of Paraná (GerS), the two members of the new community, Wilmar Santin, O.Carm. and Marcos Alencar, O.Carm., as well as many other religious and the faithful.
The Carmelites feel a certain historic debt to the people of Manaus, having worked there coincidentally for exactly 157 years and having left a profound mark of their presence among the people, who to this day, have a remarkable devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, S. Albert of Trapani and S. Teresa of Avila.
The Carmelites feel a certain historic debt to the people of Manaus, having worked there coincidentally for exactly 157 years and having left a profound mark of their presence among the people, who to this day, have a remarkable devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, S. Albert of Trapani and S. Teresa of Avila.
Electoral Chapter of the Carmelite Hermits of Monteluro, Italy
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Hermits of Monteluro, Italy, was held 30 March 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Teresa Lonardoni, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Morena Ciullo, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Maria Faroldi, O. Carm.
New Director of Studies of the Titus Brandsma Institute, Nijmegen, Holland
The council of the Titus Brandsma Institute, Nijmegen, Holland, has appointed Fr. Michael Plattig O. Carm., (GerS) as the new director of studies. At the moment, Fr. Michael is the director of the Spirituality Institute in Münster, Germany, a professor of Spiritual Theology in the Higher Institute of Philosophy and Theology in the same city, as well as visiting professor at the Pontifical Gregorian University and the Pontifical Athenaeum ‘Antonianum’, both in Rome. Fr. Michael is a prolific author of publication s on spirituality and mysticism and a member of the Central Committee of the Carmelite Institute. This new appointment in Nijmegen is in addition to Fr. Michael’s existing responsibilities.Fr. Michael succeeds Fr. Kees Waaijman O. Carm. (Neer.), who was director of the Titus Brandsma Institute for many years.
First Meeting of Carmelite Confraternities in Murcia (Spain)
On March 15, the first meeting of Carmelite Confraternities in the Murcia region of Spain was celebrated in the town of Beniaján. There were about 300 participants from the confraternity of Beniaján itself which played host to the encounter, from the city of Murcia, Mula and San Pedro del Piantar, all with their various directors and presidents. The participants shared their experiences and activities in a fraternal climate. The aim of the meeting was to create closer ties of friendship and to take a first step towards future meetings and cooperation among the laity of the region, centering on devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
A film on popular Carmelite religion in the confraternities of Murcia was shown and a votive Mass was celebrated in the Shrine Chapel of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Pastoral messages were read from the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, and from the Prior Provincial of Arago-Valentina, Fr. Carmelo Gómez. The success of this first meeting has opened the way to other encounters in the future, which will be organized on an annual basis by one of the confraternities.
Si conresurrexistis Christo,quae sursum sunt quaerite,
ubi Christus est in dextera Dei sedens;
quae sursum sunt sapite,
non quae supra terram.
(Col 3,1)
IN PASCHA DOMINI
A.D. 2009
FERNANDO PRIOR GENERALIS
DOMUSQUE GENERALIS COMMUNITAS
Provincial Chapter of the Province of Malta
During the Provincial Chapter of the Province of Malta held on 13-17 April 2009 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Michael Farrugia, O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Alexander Vella, O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Martin Schembri, O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Joseph Saliba, O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Raymond Calleja, O.Carm.
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
25-03-09 Patrick Ammerlaan (Neer)
10-04-09 José Ten Bokum (Neer)
Letter of the Prior General “Clothed with the breastplate of Justice …“
The letter of the Prior General P. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. to the Carmelite Family on the occasion of the canonization of Blessed Nuño de Santa Maria Álvares Pereira “Clothed with the breastplate of Justice …“ is available online.
40/2009-22-04
Meeting of Carmelite Nuns in the Antilles
Meeting of Carmelite Nuns in the Antilles
From 13 to 19 April in the monastery of Santa Teresa of Jesus in Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, a meeting of Carmelite nuns in the Antilles was held. The 43 nuns were greeted by the prioress, Mother Maria José Bernal. The Delegate for the Nuns, Fr. Rogelio Mur (Arag.) also took part.
Fr. Desiderio García (Arag.) spoke about the various topics contained in the Ratio Institutionis Vitae Carmelitanae Monialium. Contemplation is central and prayer its doorway, this document speaks of the lifestyle proper to nuns which is different from that of the friars: cloister and heavenly marriage. These are themes which run through the entire document and which offer a path to the transformation of the heart, a way which brings union with God, through Jesus Christ.
The nuns who took part, besides sharing their own experiences, evaluated the experience of community life in the light of the teaching of the Ratio Institutionis Vitae Carmelitanae Monialium and all that the document asks of them.
The Prior General visits the General Chapter of the Discalced Carmelites
On April 23 last the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral O.Carm. attended the General Chapter of the Discalced Carmelites at Fatima, Portugal, in order greet the members of the Chapter and to engage in dialogue with them. Fr Fernando said it was an honour for him to participate in the General Chapter of our Discalced Carmelite brothers and a joy for him personally. He also expressed his gratitude to Fr. Luis Aróstegui OCD for the invitation to attend and to engage in an informal exchange of ideas, together with news of mutual interest to our lives.
Following the meeting, the Prior General presided at the celebration of the Eucharist in the chapel of the “Domus Carmeli” in Fatima. During the Eucharist, celebrated in Spanish with Easter music and songs from the writing of Saint John of the Cross and Saint Teresa of Jesus, the General Prior gave thanks to God for the bonds we share in the Carmelite family.
Festivity in Carmel for Saint Nuño
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The Carmelite Order is celebrating and giving thanks to God for the canonization of Saint Nuño de Santa María Alvares Pereira. This morning 26th April 2009, during a solemn ceremony in Saint Peter's Square, the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI added his name to the list of saints together with four other Blesseds. Numerous members of the Carmelite family were present representing many other sisters and brothers who were unable to come to Rome. Concelebrating with the Pope, among the cardinals and bishops were various other Portuguese like our Carmelite Bishop Vitalino Dantas - also concelebrating were the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O. Carm., the Councillor General for Europe, Fr. John Keating, O. Carm., and the Commissary General for Portugal, Fr. Agostinho Castro, O. Carm. Present also was Carmelite Bishop Filippo Iannone, Auxiliary Bishop of Naples. The ceremony was preceeded the night before by a Prayer Vigil for the Carmelite Family in the church of Santa Maria in Transpontina and by another organized by the Portuguese Episcopal Conference in the Roman National Church of S. Antonio dei Portoghesi. May the example of Saint Nuño, who abandoned all human power in the service of God and the poor, help us to grow in love and in commitment to peace.The Prior General’s Activities
Last 28 February the Prior General gave a conference to 150 teachers from the schools of our “Sisters of the Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel” (HVMMC) on the figure of Blessed Titus Brandsma as a model of a Christian educator. On 10th March, together with the Councillor General for Europe, Fr John Keating, the Prior General took part in the meeting of the provincials of the Iberian Region during which the topics of formation and the future of the region were discussed. On 14th March both joined in the celebrations for the 650th anniversary of the Carmelite presence in Seville (citoc-online 29/2009). Taking advantage of their proximity, Frs Millán and Keating also visited the nuns’ monasteries of Seville, Utrera, Villalba del Alcor and Aracena.
On 19th March, together with Fr Raúl Maraví, the General Councillor for the Americas, the Prior General took part in the episcopal ordination of João Costa, O.Carm. (citoc-online 30/2009) in Lagarto (Sergipe, Brasil). There was also an opportunity to speak with the novices in Aracaju about various projects in the Order, especially in Latin America.
In the context of the national meetings for juniors and those in formation organized by the Centre for the Religious Life (Regina Apostolorum) on 22nd March the Prior General gave a lecture on “The Sacrament of Penance in the process of formation for the religious life.”
Finally, accompanied again by the Councillor General for Europe, Fr Fernando carried out a canonical visitation of the General Commissariat of Portugal (from 23 to 29 March) and the province of Castille (30 March to 4 April). The Protugal visit concluded in Fatima with a conference on the “Various Forms of Carmelite Laity” given to Carmelite alumni who were celebrating their annual meeting. The General also visited the monasteries of Beja and Torre di Moncorvo in Portugal and Piedrahita, Fontiveros and Las Maravillas (Madrid) in Spain.
On 19th March, together with Fr Raúl Maraví, the General Councillor for the Americas, the Prior General took part in the episcopal ordination of João Costa, O.Carm. (citoc-online 30/2009) in Lagarto (Sergipe, Brasil). There was also an opportunity to speak with the novices in Aracaju about various projects in the Order, especially in Latin America.
In the context of the national meetings for juniors and those in formation organized by the Centre for the Religious Life (Regina Apostolorum) on 22nd March the Prior General gave a lecture on “The Sacrament of Penance in the process of formation for the religious life.”
Finally, accompanied again by the Councillor General for Europe, Fr Fernando carried out a canonical visitation of the General Commissariat of Portugal (from 23 to 29 March) and the province of Castille (30 March to 4 April). The Protugal visit concluded in Fatima with a conference on the “Various Forms of Carmelite Laity” given to Carmelite alumni who were celebrating their annual meeting. The General also visited the monasteries of Beja and Torre di Moncorvo in Portugal and Piedrahita, Fontiveros and Las Maravillas (Madrid) in Spain.
44/2009-28-04
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
23-04-09 P. Matthäus Hösler (GerS)
27-04-09 Sr. M. Gabriella Ricci (SAR)
VITAM COELO REDDIDERUNT (R.I.P.)
23-04-09 P. Matthäus Hösler (GerS)
27-04-09 Sr. M. Gabriella Ricci (SAR)
45/2009-30-04
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
CAUSA NOSTRAE LETITIAE
Professio Temporanea
15-03-09 Thomas Feiten (GerS), Mainz
19-04-09 Margarette Mary Artillero Anisco (ROX), Roxas City
Ordinatio Diaconalis
19-04-09 Konradus Bata Laki (Indo), Maumere (Flores)
19-04-09 Paskalis Patut (Indo), Maumere (Flores)
19-04-09 Severinus Nuwa (Indo), Maumere (Flores)
19-04-09 Yanto Yohanes Ndona (Indo), Maumere (Flores)
21/2009-02-03
Causa Nostrae Letitiae - Februarius 2009
Causa Nostrae Letitiae - Februarius 2009
Initium Novitiatus
08-01-09 Luc Janssens (Neer)
Professio Temporanea
02-02-09 Elizabeth Mutheu (MAC)
02-02-09 Florence Kanini (MAC)
02-02-09 Juliet Wavinya (MAC)
14-02-09 Alexandre Ferreira (GerS)
08-01-09 Luc Janssens (Neer)
Professio Temporanea
02-02-09 Elizabeth Mutheu (MAC)
02-02-09 Florence Kanini (MAC)
02-02-09 Juliet Wavinya (MAC)
14-02-09 Alexandre Ferreira (GerS)
Ordinatio Diaconalis
05-02-09 Rubén Dario Rodríguez Ramos (Arag)
05-02-09 Pedro Maria Rodríguez (Arag)
19-02-09 Marselinus Monang Sijabat (Indo)
19-02-09 Andreas Novem Munjil Wahyono (Indo)
19-02-09 Franciscus X. Hariawan Adji (Indo)
19-02-09 Yohanes Radik Suryawan (Indo)
21-02-09 Joseph Matare (Hib)
21-02-09 Wiseman Musemwa (Hib)
05-02-09 Rubén Dario Rodríguez Ramos (Arag)
05-02-09 Pedro Maria Rodríguez (Arag)
19-02-09 Marselinus Monang Sijabat (Indo)
19-02-09 Andreas Novem Munjil Wahyono (Indo)
19-02-09 Franciscus X. Hariawan Adji (Indo)
19-02-09 Yohanes Radik Suryawan (Indo)
21-02-09 Joseph Matare (Hib)
21-02-09 Wiseman Musemwa (Hib)
22/2009-05-03
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Caudete, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Caudete (Albacete), Spain, was held 2-3 March 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Estela Santos Torres, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Elena Ballester Ballester, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Gloria Iborra Lledó, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Rosario Sivó Medina, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. Cristina Conejero Rodríguez, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Josefina Marco Navarro, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Elena Ballester Ballester, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Cristina Conejero Rodríguez, O. Carm.
Portuguese Bishops publish a pastoral communication on Blessed Nuño
To mark the announcement of the canonization of Blessed Nuño which will take place on 26 April, the Conference of Portuguese Bishops published on 6 March a pastoral communication entitled An heroic example in a time of crisis.
In their message the Portuguese bishops express their joy and gratitude for the canonization of the ‘son of our land’.
The communication emphasizes that Blessed Nuño is not only a national hero, but above all a model for holiness. He followed Jesus in a radical way taking up “the spiritual arms of which the letter to the Ephesians (cf Eph 6, 10-20) and the Carmelite Rule both speak: the breastplate of justice, the sword of the Spirit (the Word of God), the shield of faith, prayer, the spirit of service in order to announce the Gospel of peace, perseverance in practicing good.”
The bishops indicate in their document the heroic qualities of the new saint while taking account also of the present world crisis. His example can “help us to respond to the challenges of the present time.” They continue “in this context the witness of the life of Blessed Nuño will constitute a force for change in favour of justice and fraternity which will promote a life style which is more sober and displays solidarity and initiatives for the sharing of goods.”
“The Portuguese bishops, therefore, propose the example of Blessed Nuño Álvares Pereira to the men and women of today which is points to gospel values, to the greater good of all, willing to fight for interests above those of individual nations, keen to serve the defenseless and the poor. In this way we will all become an active part in the construction of a more just and fraternal society which we all desire.”
The full English / Portuguese texts
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Ostuni, Italy
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Ostuni, Italy, was held 3-7 March 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Daniela de Nitto, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Giuseppina Cardone, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Maria Andrisani, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Agnese Menolascina, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Bernardetta Spagnuolo, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Maria Andrisani, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Giuseppina Cardone, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. M. Carmela Conserva, O. Carm.
25/2009-12-03
General Finance Commission, 3 – 5 March 2009
A meeting of the General Finance Commission of the Order was held in Rome from 3 to 5 March under the chairmanship of Kevin Alban (Brit.), the Bursar-General. The first day was devoted to a meeting with the Domus Board of Management to exchange ideas about the performance of the Domus in the short term economic crisis and to share views on the long term place of the Domus in the overall scheme of the Order’s finances. On 4 March the Commission reviewed the accounts for the Curia and its works for 2008, which showed a modest surplus in line with the approved budget. The Commission also revisited the budget for 2009 and urged the Bursar General to ensure that it was adhered to as faithfully as possible. Finally, the Commission considered the Triennial Bursars’ Meeting due to be held in October 2009 and whether in the present climate it should be postponed. The Commission decided to go ahead with the meeting, but with a reduced number of participants, in order to alleviate the financial burden on provinces sending delegates.
Prioress: Sr. M. Daniela de Nitto, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Giuseppina Cardone, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Maria Andrisani, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Agnese Menolascina, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Bernardetta Spagnuolo, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Maria Andrisani, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Giuseppina Cardone, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. M. Carmela Conserva, O. Carm.
25/2009-12-03
General Finance Commission, 3 – 5 March 2009
A meeting of the General Finance Commission of the Order was held in Rome from 3 to 5 March under the chairmanship of Kevin Alban (Brit.), the Bursar-General. The first day was devoted to a meeting with the Domus Board of Management to exchange ideas about the performance of the Domus in the short term economic crisis and to share views on the long term place of the Domus in the overall scheme of the Order’s finances. On 4 March the Commission reviewed the accounts for the Curia and its works for 2008, which showed a modest surplus in line with the approved budget. The Commission also revisited the budget for 2009 and urged the Bursar General to ensure that it was adhered to as faithfully as possible. Finally, the Commission considered the Triennial Bursars’ Meeting due to be held in October 2009 and whether in the present climate it should be postponed. The Commission decided to go ahead with the meeting, but with a reduced number of participants, in order to alleviate the financial burden on provinces sending delegates.
26/2009-16-03
Vitam Coelo Reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
24-02-09 Sr. M. Assumpta Colomer i Pagés (VIL)
07-03-09 Madre Clemens Pezzini (INSC)
07-03-09 Sr. M. Carmela Závodská (VOL)
09-03-09 P. José Luis Herreros Carralcazar (Arag)
27/2009-17-03
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Camaná, Peru
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Camaná, Peru, was held 15 March 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Eucaristía Solsona Granel, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Máxima Ranilla Huamaní, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Hilda Condori Marca, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Trinidad Huamaní Condo, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. Ana María Quispe Castro, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Máxima Ranilla Huamaní, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Trinidad Huamaní Condo, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Carmen Teresa de la Cruz Cruces Montoya, O. Carm.
28/2009-18-03
Planned programme for the Canonization of Blessed Nuno
Rome – St. Peter’s, 26th April 2009
25th April
19.30 Church of S. Maria in Transpontina: Prayer Vigil led by the Prior General.
21.00 Church of S. Antonio dei Portoghesi: Prayer Vigil in Portuguese led by His Eminence the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon.
26th April
10.00 Solemn Canonization (entrance to St. Peter’s Square 8.30)
27th April
17.00 Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls: Mass of Thanksgiving in Portuguese presided over by the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon.
28th April
18.30 Church of S. Maria in Transpontina: Mass of Thanksgiving presided over by the Prior General.
Requests for tickets for the Canonization should be addressed to:
nuno @ ocarm.org
29/2009-20-03
650th Anniversary of Carmelite presence in Seville, Spain
On the 14th March last, in our church Buen Suceso in Seville, Spain, the 650th Anniversary of the Carmelite presence since 1358 in the city was celebrated. The Eucharistic celebration for the occasion was presided over by the Archbishop, Cardinal Don Carlos Amigo Vallejo. Concelebrating were the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm., the Councilor General for Europe, Fr. John Keating, O.Carm., the Prior Provincial of Betica, Fr. Rafael Leiva Sánchez, O.Carm. and numerous other Carmelites from the Betica Province and from other provinces, including the Discalced Carmelites from the city. Following the Eucharist, there was the launch of an extensive volume entitled “Los Carmelitas en Sevilla. 650 años de presentia” written by Fr. Ismael Martínez Carretero, O.Carm. The launch began with an introduction from Fr. Leiva, who underlined the importance of the celebration and expressed his gratitude to all present. The Prior General then formally launched the book of Fr. Ismael stressing that anniversaries such as these were important not just for reflecting on the past with gratitude, but also enabled one to look to the future with hope and courage. Finally, the author himself gave a synthesis of the key moments in the history of the Carmelites in Seville. The celebration ended with a formal luncheon.
30/2009-26-03
Episcopal Ordination of P. João José Costa, O.Carm.
Prioress: Sr. M. Eucaristía Solsona Granel, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Máxima Ranilla Huamaní, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Hilda Condori Marca, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Trinidad Huamaní Condo, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. Ana María Quispe Castro, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Máxima Ranilla Huamaní, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Trinidad Huamaní Condo, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Carmen Teresa de la Cruz Cruces Montoya, O. Carm.
28/2009-18-03
Planned programme for the Canonization of Blessed Nuno
Rome – St. Peter’s, 26th April 2009
25th April
19.30 Church of S. Maria in Transpontina: Prayer Vigil led by the Prior General.
21.00 Church of S. Antonio dei Portoghesi: Prayer Vigil in Portuguese led by His Eminence the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon.
26th April
10.00 Solemn Canonization (entrance to St. Peter’s Square 8.30)
27th April
17.00 Basilica of St. Paul’s Outside the Walls: Mass of Thanksgiving in Portuguese presided over by the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon.
28th April
18.30 Church of S. Maria in Transpontina: Mass of Thanksgiving presided over by the Prior General.
Requests for tickets for the Canonization should be addressed to:
nuno @ ocarm.org
29/2009-20-03
650th Anniversary of Carmelite presence in Seville, Spain
On the 14th March last, in our church Buen Suceso in Seville, Spain, the 650th Anniversary of the Carmelite presence since 1358 in the city was celebrated. The Eucharistic celebration for the occasion was presided over by the Archbishop, Cardinal Don Carlos Amigo Vallejo. Concelebrating were the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm., the Councilor General for Europe, Fr. John Keating, O.Carm., the Prior Provincial of Betica, Fr. Rafael Leiva Sánchez, O.Carm. and numerous other Carmelites from the Betica Province and from other provinces, including the Discalced Carmelites from the city. Following the Eucharist, there was the launch of an extensive volume entitled “Los Carmelitas en Sevilla. 650 años de presentia” written by Fr. Ismael Martínez Carretero, O.Carm. The launch began with an introduction from Fr. Leiva, who underlined the importance of the celebration and expressed his gratitude to all present. The Prior General then formally launched the book of Fr. Ismael stressing that anniversaries such as these were important not just for reflecting on the past with gratitude, but also enabled one to look to the future with hope and courage. Finally, the author himself gave a synthesis of the key moments in the history of the Carmelites in Seville. The celebration ended with a formal luncheon.
30/2009-26-03
Episcopal Ordination of P. João José Costa, O.Carm.
On 19 March the episcopal ordination of Fr. João José Costa, O.Carm. was celebrated in the presence of over 4,000 people in the stadium of the Brasilian city of Lagarto, in the state of Sergipe. Fr Costa is a member of the Pernambuco province of the Order and was recently appointed bishop of Iguatú, Ceará. The three consecrating bishops were the Archbishop of Aracaju, Dom José Palmeira Lessa, the bishop of Petrolina Dom Paulo Cardoso, O.Carm., who by a happy coincidence that day was celebrating the 24th anniversary of his episcopal ordination and continuous service in the diocese of Petrolina, and Dom Mario Rino Siviere bishop of Própria, and former parish priest where Bishop Costa was an altar server. In addition, many other bishops concelebrated, including Carmelites Dom José Cardoso and Dom Antonio
Muniz, as well as many members of the provinces of Pernambuco, Rio and the commissariat of Paraná, and numerous diocesan priests. The Prior General, Fr Fernando Millán Romeral, who concelebrated as assistant to the new bishop, and the Prior Provincial of Pernambuco, Fr. Francisco de Sales Alencar, O.Carm., both addressed the bishop at the end of the celebration, encouraging him to live his ministry with the gospel spirit of service and with the simplicity of the Carmelite charism.The whole celebration took place in a most joyous atmosphere with a significant participation on the part of many lay groups from the various parishes where Bishop Costa had worked in the past.
31/2009-28-03
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Erlangen, Germany
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Erlangen, Germany, was held 24 March 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Thoma Müller, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Theresia Kretschmann, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Bernadette Krämer, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Thoma Müller, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Pia Janko, O. Carm.
32/2009-01-04
Return of the Carmelites to Manaus, Brazil
Prioress: Sr. Thoma Müller, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Theresia Kretschmann, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Bernadette Krämer, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Thoma Müller, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Pia Janko, O. Carm.
Return of the Carmelites to Manaus, Brazil
On 22 March 2009 Mons. Luiz Soares Vieira, archbishop of Manaus presided at a solemn Eucharist to celebrate the return of the Carmelites to Manaus in Amazonia after an absence of 157 years. Present were Raúl Maraví, O.Carm., General Councillor for the Americas, Francisco de Oliveira, O.Carm., Commissary Provincial of Paraná (GerS), the two members of the new community, Wilmar Santin, O.Carm. and Marcos Alencar, O.Carm., as well as many other religious and the faithful.
The Carmelites feel a certain historic debt to the people of Manaus, having worked there coincidentally for exactly 157 years and having left a profound mark of their presence among the people, who to this day, have a remarkable devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, S. Albert of Trapani and S. Teresa of Avila.
33/2009-03-04
Electoral Chapter of the Carmelite Hermits of Monteluro, Italy
The Carmelites feel a certain historic debt to the people of Manaus, having worked there coincidentally for exactly 157 years and having left a profound mark of their presence among the people, who to this day, have a remarkable devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, S. Albert of Trapani and S. Teresa of Avila.
33/2009-03-04
Electoral Chapter of the Carmelite Hermits of Monteluro, Italy
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Hermits of Monteluro, Italy, was held 30 March 2009. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Teresa Lonardoni, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. M. Morena Ciullo, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Maria Faroldi, O. Carm.
Published in
CITOC Archive
9/2009-01-02
Causa Nostrae Letitiae - Ianuarius 2009
Initium Novitiatus
07-01-09 Julio Cesar Materano Peroto (Bet)
07-01-09 Pedro Javier Ramírez Ibáñez (Bet)
07-01-09 Luis Fernando Diaz García (Bet),
13-01-09 Paulo César Acosta Nisperuza (Ita)
13-01-09 Devis Orosco Jimenez (Ita)
13-01-09 Carlos Alberto Lagos Alfonso (Ita )
13-01-09 Janer Fernando Gòmez Torres (Ita)
13-01-09 Andrès Enrique Trujillo Herrera (Ita)
13-01-09 Jerrry de Sousa Fonseca (Flum)
13-01-09 Donizete Aparecido Ferreira Lima (Flum)
13-01-09 Joberlânio Martins de Lima (Pern)
13-01-09 Romero Ferreira De Lima (Pern)
13-01-09 Josivaldo Nivaldo de Souza (Pern)
13-01-09 Costa José Jambo (Pern)
13-01-09 Sérgio Estefane Simone (Pern
17-01-09 Caio Augusto Lima de Castro (GerS)
17-01-09 Danilo Garcia Lopes (GerS)
17-01-09 Devanir da Silva (GerS)
17-01-09 Jhonatan Diógenes de Oliveira Alves (GerS)
Professio Temporanea
11-01-09 Antonio Farias (Pern)
11-01-09 Antonio Rock (Pern)
11-01-09 Cícero Valter (Pern)
11-01-09 Gilmar Alves (Pern)
11-01-09 Jorge Costa (Pern)
11-01-09 Jose Adriano (Pern)
11-01-09 Marcilio Lira (Pern)
11-01-09 Rubens Brito (Pern)
11-01-09 Janicio Dias (Flum)
11-01-09 Rogerio Ribeiro (Flum)
18-01-09 Emilio Augusto Ferraciolli da Silva (GerS)
18-01-09 João Nilson Dantas Barbosa (GerS)
18-01-09 Marcelo Silveira Siqueira (GerS)
18-01-09 Rogério Sebastião Tedesco (GerS)
18-01-09 Luis Felipe Castro Cabarcas (Ita)
19-01-09 Félix Andrés Rojas Rodríguez (Mel)
21-01-09 Carmen Aurelina González (LAV)
28-01-09 Praveen Lawrence (CSTSA)
Causa Nostrae Letitiae - Ianuarius 2009
Initium Novitiatus
07-01-09 Julio Cesar Materano Peroto (Bet)
07-01-09 Pedro Javier Ramírez Ibáñez (Bet)
07-01-09 Luis Fernando Diaz García (Bet),
13-01-09 Paulo César Acosta Nisperuza (Ita)
13-01-09 Devis Orosco Jimenez (Ita)
13-01-09 Carlos Alberto Lagos Alfonso (Ita )
13-01-09 Janer Fernando Gòmez Torres (Ita)
13-01-09 Andrès Enrique Trujillo Herrera (Ita)
13-01-09 Jerrry de Sousa Fonseca (Flum)
13-01-09 Donizete Aparecido Ferreira Lima (Flum)
13-01-09 Joberlânio Martins de Lima (Pern)
13-01-09 Romero Ferreira De Lima (Pern)
13-01-09 Josivaldo Nivaldo de Souza (Pern)
13-01-09 Costa José Jambo (Pern)
13-01-09 Sérgio Estefane Simone (Pern
17-01-09 Caio Augusto Lima de Castro (GerS)
17-01-09 Danilo Garcia Lopes (GerS)
17-01-09 Devanir da Silva (GerS)
17-01-09 Jhonatan Diógenes de Oliveira Alves (GerS)
Professio Temporanea
11-01-09 Antonio Farias (Pern)
11-01-09 Antonio Rock (Pern)
11-01-09 Cícero Valter (Pern)
11-01-09 Gilmar Alves (Pern)
11-01-09 Jorge Costa (Pern)
11-01-09 Jose Adriano (Pern)
11-01-09 Marcilio Lira (Pern)
11-01-09 Rubens Brito (Pern)
11-01-09 Janicio Dias (Flum)
11-01-09 Rogerio Ribeiro (Flum)
18-01-09 Emilio Augusto Ferraciolli da Silva (GerS)
18-01-09 João Nilson Dantas Barbosa (GerS)
18-01-09 Marcelo Silveira Siqueira (GerS)
18-01-09 Rogério Sebastião Tedesco (GerS)
18-01-09 Luis Felipe Castro Cabarcas (Ita)
19-01-09 Félix Andrés Rojas Rodríguez (Mel)
21-01-09 Carmen Aurelina González (LAV)
28-01-09 Praveen Lawrence (CSTSA)
Professio Sollemne
18-12-08 Rinaldo Francisco da Silva (Pern)
04-01-09 Fredy Márquez (Ita)
04-01-09 Rubén Dario Silva (Ita)
14-01-09 Dominic John Somola (Brun)
Ordinatio Diaconalis
31-01-09 José Manuel Granados Rivera (Bet)
31-01-09 David del Carpio Horcajo (Bet)
Ordinatio Sacerdotalis
07-01-09 Linto Paul Thekkekunnel (Ind)
10/2009-05-02
Convocation of the 16th Council of Provinces
With his letter of the 2nd February, 2009, the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. convoked the 16th Council of Provinces. It will take place in the retreat house “Il Carmine”, San Felice del Benaco, Italy, from 3rd (arrivals) to 12th (departures) September 2009. The theme of the meeting will be:
"Embracing his Gospel: Carmelite community in faith, hope and love"
This theme has been chosen for two reasons: Firstly, “Embracing his Gospel” is taken from Article 2 of our Constitutions, words taken from the phrase: “Living in allegiance to Jesus Christ and embracing his Gospel as the supreme norm of our lives….”, and secondly, the General Chapter reflected on the topics of “Following Christ”, “prayer and prophecy in a changing world” but perhaps did not concentrate sufficiently on the issue of “community”. At this present moment in time, Pope Benedict has already written on the subject of Love and Hope, and there is an expectation of a letter on Faith. It is hoped that this Council of Provinces will address not just the theory of these virtues, but what a Carmelite community in faith, hope and love might realistically look like at the beginning of a new millennium. In the context of our own Constitutions, living in the midst of the people of today, “our communities will be authentic expressions of faith, hope and charity, and will be places conducive to full human development.” (CON 32)
In preparation for the Council of Provinces, a programme of reflections and prayers around the theme of the meeting have been prepared for four gatherings of communities. This programme of reflections will be sent to all the communities of the Order. It is hoped that these meditations will contribute to the reflections that will take place during the Council of Provinces.
Shortly, Fr. Mario Alfarano, Secretary General, will send to Priors Provincial, Commissaries General and Provincial, Delegates General and Presidents of the Regions a more detailed programme, Further information can be found on the website of the Order: www. ocarm.org
11/2009-07-02
Officia Generalia - E-mail adresses
Procurator Gen. Josef Jancar - jjancar @ ocarm.org
Oeconomus Gen. Kevin Alban - kalban @ ocarm.org
Secretarius Gen. Mario Alfarano - seggen @ ocarm.org
Archivista Gen. Ivan Hrusa - ihrusa @ ocarm.org
Postulator Gen. Giovanni Grosso - postulazione @ ocarm.org
Webmaster Anthony Cilia - acilia @ ocarm.org
Citoc-online Christian Körner - citoc.info @ ocarm.org
12/2009-11-02
Activities of the Prior General in Latin America
The Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. accompanied by Fr. Raúl Maravi, Councilor General for the Americas, took part in the Assembly of the Titus Brandsma General Delegation in Bogotá, Columbia from 5th to 9th of January last. In an atmosphere of reflection and discernment a future outline for the development of this Delegation was drawn up and an evaluation of the high level of involvement with the so-called “Pequeños Carmelos” undertaken. The Prior General also visited the property at La Vega where the Delegation has build a small house for the elderly and for other activities.
On Sunday 11th January, they participated in the inauguration of the new Carmelite parish of the Italian Province at Aguachica, also in Columbia. The Archbishop of Ocaña, Mons. Jorge Enrique Lozano Zafra, presided at the celebration. Also present were the Provincial of the Italian Province, Fr. Claudio Bellotti, O.Carm. together with Columbian and Italian Carmelites and other religious and laity.
From Columbia the Prior General and Councilor General moved on to Peru, where from 13th to 16th January they participated in the Assembly of the Commissariat in Lurín (CITOC-on line 3/2009). They held various meetings with our communities and met with representatives of groups of laity of the Carmelite parish of Miraflores in Lima. They also visited the Carmelite Sisters (HVMMC) at José Gálvez.
Finally, they took part in the Assembly of the Commissariat of Bolivia at Tarija from 19th to 22nd January (CITOC-on line 4/2009), where the Prior General received the first profession of Brother Félix Rojas Rodrígues, who had just finished his novitiate in Brazil. The Prior General then opened the new parochial centre “El Encuentro- Profeta Elías” which offers a fine religious and social service. He also visited the Sisters of Mother Candelaria (HCMC) where the Sisters have opened a food centre and place for children with problems. Returning via La Paz, before returning to Europe, he celebrated the Eucharist with the laity of the Carmelite parish in the city.
Without doubt, this was a very fruitful visit, during which the Prior General and the Councilor General were able to witness with joy the development of Carmel in Latin America.
On Sunday 11th January, they participated in the inauguration of the new Carmelite parish of the Italian Province at Aguachica, also in Columbia. The Archbishop of Ocaña, Mons. Jorge Enrique Lozano Zafra, presided at the celebration. Also present were the Provincial of the Italian Province, Fr. Claudio Bellotti, O.Carm. together with Columbian and Italian Carmelites and other religious and laity.
From Columbia the Prior General and Councilor General moved on to Peru, where from 13th to 16th January they participated in the Assembly of the Commissariat in Lurín (CITOC-on line 3/2009). They held various meetings with our communities and met with representatives of groups of laity of the Carmelite parish of Miraflores in Lima. They also visited the Carmelite Sisters (HVMMC) at José Gálvez.
Finally, they took part in the Assembly of the Commissariat of Bolivia at Tarija from 19th to 22nd January (CITOC-on line 4/2009), where the Prior General received the first profession of Brother Félix Rojas Rodrígues, who had just finished his novitiate in Brazil. The Prior General then opened the new parochial centre “El Encuentro- Profeta Elías” which offers a fine religious and social service. He also visited the Sisters of Mother Candelaria (HCMC) where the Sisters have opened a food centre and place for children with problems. Returning via La Paz, before returning to Europe, he celebrated the Eucharist with the laity of the Carmelite parish in the city.
Without doubt, this was a very fruitful visit, during which the Prior General and the Councilor General were able to witness with joy the development of Carmel in Latin America.
13/2009-13-02
Vitam Coelo Reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
19-01-09 Sr. Juana Mª Pérez Díaz (HUE)
25-01-09 Sr. Bertholda Huizendveld (ECH)
06-02-09 P. Timothy Donohue (SEL)
14/2009-15-02
International Social Justice Day
We are forwarding to you an invitation from the “Commission for Justice Peace and Integrity of Creation” of the International Union of Superiors General (UISG) and the Union of Superiors General (USG), Rome: “February 20, 2009 is an important day for all persons in our global village but especially for those of us committed to living the Good News of peace and justice. The World Day of Social Justice is being observed for the first time following its unanimous adoption by the 192 member States of the United Nations during their November 2007 General Assembly. You are invited and asked to share with your members the enclosed prayer for this day. It was developed by members of the USG/UISG Secretariat Commission for Justice Peace and Integrity of Creation in Rome.”
For a copy of the prayer go to: http://jpicformation.wikispaces.com/EN_prayer
For a copy of the prayer go to: http://jpicformation.wikispaces.com/EN_prayer
15/2009-18-02
Publication in Italian of the Order's website Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina, the method of daily prayer recommended by the Carmelite Rule (no.10), which is found in this volume, makes available to everyone today the Charism and spiritual heritage of the Carmelite Order. This prayerful approach to the Word of God, this journey, which springs from the very beginnings of the history and the spirituality of Carmel - may now be found on the web (www. ocarm.org), so that the Gospel texts of Sunday can be shared with all who wish to reflect on and live by the Word of God and the Liturgy of the Hours in a more committed way. This is a project that has been welcomed and followed with great enthusiasm by numerous people around the whole world, and from many different states of the Christian life: laity, religious - men and women - priests and bishops.
Many Carmelites, various religious men and women, have collaborated in the writing of the text which was coordinated by Fr. Anthony Cilia (Mel): Fr. Carlos Mesters (Flum), Fr. Cosimo Pagliara (Neap), Sr. Maria Anastasia di Gerusalemme (Ravenna), Fr. Charlò Camilleri (Mel), Fr. Tiberio Scorrano (Ita), Sr. Maria Teresa della Croce Boschi (Cerreto), Fr. Bruno Secondin (Ita), Fr. Roberto Toni (Ita), Sr. Marianerina De Simone (SCMSTBG), Fr. Alexander Vella (Mel), and of no less importance has been the work of translators (for the website texts only): the late Fr. Manuel Anguiano, (Baet) for the Spanish version and Fr. Anthony Scerri (Aust) for the English version of the Lectio.
The publication Lectio Divina sui Vangeli festivi per l'anno liturgico B, (Edited by Anthony Cilia, O.Carm.), Elledici, Torino, 2009, pp.720, ISBN 978-88-01-04157-6. Euro 20.00" is in Italian. In a few months the Italian texts will be published for the Liturgical Year A and C.
It is hoped that this book will become a useful instrument for sharing this prayerful approach to the Word.
16/2009-19-02
General Chapter of the Congregation of Our Lady of Mount Carmel
The General Chapter of the Carmelite Sisters of the Congregation of Mount Carmel (COLMC) was held 15-19 January 2009 at the “Carmelite Spirituality Center” in Lacombe, LA., USA. The following were elected:
Superior General: Sr. Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, O.Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Andrée Bindewald, O.Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Donna Girard, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Barbara Nell Laperouse, O.Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. Janet LeBlanc, O.Carm.
17/2009-21-02
Blessed Nuno Will Be Canonized On The 26th April
On the 26th of April next, Blessed Nuno di Santa Maria Álvares Pereira will be canonized by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI in St. Peter's, in the Vatican.The Holy Father made the announcement during the solemn public Ordinary Consistory for the canonization of ten blesseds', which took place in the Sala Clementina of the Vatican Apostolic Palace, during the celebration of the Liturgical Hour of Sext.
Blessed Nuno lived in Portugal from 1360 to 1431 and was widowed in 1423. Following this he decided to enter the Carmelite convent in Lisbon, which he had himself founded. This was the culmination of years of service to the King, who had named him commander, that is, in charge of the army. In the convent he put on spiritual armour, at last fully able to live out his devotion to Mary, humility and above all charity, which filled his life from that moment on.
In the year 2000, the intercession of Blessed Nuno was made by Signora Guilhermina de Jesus and by her family following an accident involving boiling oil, that resulted in the loss of sight in one eye. After medical treatment without results, intercessory prayer was made through Blessed Nuno, which resulted in a recognized miraculous cure.
The Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. and members of the General Curia were present in the Sala Clementina on Saturday 21st February, to hear the Holy Father make the announcement.
Blessed Nuno is the first saint of our Order to be canonized since St. Mary Magdalene de' Pazzi on 28th April, 1669.
18/2009-24-02
Meeting with the students of CISA
With the joyful experience of the announcement of the date of the canonization of Blessed Nuno Alvarez Pereira received only hours earlier, there was a meeting the same afternoon of Saturday 21st February with the students of the Centro Internazionale Sant'Alberto (CISA), which is directly under the General Curia. The meeting organized by the General Councilor for formation, Fr. John Keating, O.Carm., was for all those in higher studies for a licentiate or doctorate.
Participating in the meeting was the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm., who encouraged the students to study in the context of the mission and service of the Church and the Carmelite Family. Pontifical Gregorian University Professor Donna Orsuto (who on other occasions has participated in Carmelite meetings) presented a series of very helpful and practical tips regarding the work involved in writing a doctoral thesis. The Regent of Studies, Fr. Mark Attard, O.Carm., underlined the importance of higher studies for the life of the Order. The President of the Institutum Carmelitanum, Fr. Giovanni Grosso, O.Carm. emphasized the necessity of studies on Carmelite topics and of the openness of the Institutum to collaborate in these projects. Following these interventions, each of the students gave a brief presentation of the work of their thesis or thesina. The meeting proved to be a very good experience with a fine sharing on the academic level regarding their topics, and on the preoccupations of the Carmelite students within the context of the scientific and ecclesial research of those at the Centro Internazionale Sant'Alberto. The meeting ended fraternally with supper together with members of the Curia community.
19/2009-26-02
Booklet for communities in preparation for the XVI Council of Provinces
The General Curia has sent to the Provincials, Commissaries and Delegates copies of a booklet in preparation for the XVI Council of Provinces on the theme: “Embracing His Gospel: the Carmelite community in faith, hope, and charity”. This booklet contains four guidelines for reflection and prayer, based on the Sacred Scripture and the Rule to use in all the communities, relating to the title of the Council of Province. It offers a way of working together during these coming months, through profound reflection and sharing beginning with our own actual situation, and at the same time helping the communities to grow in fraternal life.
The General Council has encouraged the superiors to gather the different reflections of the communities and of their Councils, as preparation for the Council of Provinces, thus mutually enriched by other parts of the Order, the work of this international Assembly will be enhanced.
You can also find the text of the document on the website of the Order: www. ocarm.org
20/2009-28-02-09
Vitam Coelo Reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
09-01-09 Sr. M. Purificación Calvo Belda (ONT)
23-01-09 P. Martín Laurnagaray Iriarte (Arag)
17-02-09 Sr. Mariet Wellenberg (BOX)
17-02-09 P. Fidel Juan Basta Romano (Cat)
24-02-09 Fr. Vincent Destro (PCM)
1/2009-07-01
Fr. Joao José Da Costa O.Carm.: New Carmelite Bishop
Fr. Joao José Da Costa O.Carm.: New Carmelite Bishop
The Carmelite Order is delighted to announce today, 7th January 2009, that the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI has nominated bishop of Iguatu, in Brazil, Fr. João José da Costa O.Carm., of the Province of Pernambuco. Fr. João was born at Lagarto in Brazil, on 24th June 1958. Following his profession in the Order on 19th January 1986, he was ordained priest on 12th December 1992. Among his many responsibilities in his province, from 1995 to 2005 he served as Prior Provincial. During these past few years he has worked in the formation of candidates to the Carmelite life. To Fr. João we offer our warmest congratulations on behalf of the whole Carmelite Family.2/2009-13-01
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
29-12-08 P. Charles Countie (PCM)
02-01-09 P. Roy Ontiveros (PCM)
3/2009-17-01
Assembly of the Provincial Commissariat of Peru (PCM)
During the Assembly of the Provincial Commissariat of Peru (PCM) at Villa Carmelitas, Lurín, Peru, held 13-16 January 2009 were elected:
Commissary Provincial: Fr. Enrique Laguna Vargas O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Michael Sgarioto O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Miguel Bacigalupo O.Carm.
4/2009-20-01
Assembly of the Provincial Commissariat of Bolivia (Mel)
During the Assembly of the Provincial Commissariat of Bolivia (Mel) at Tarija, Bolivia, held 13-21 January 2009 were elected:
Commissary Provincial: Fr. Garvin Grech O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Albert Brincat O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Milton Murillo Ortiz O.Carm.
5/2009-21-01
Relics of the Parents of St. Therese of Lisieux at the Carmelite Monastery of Vetralla
In the afternoon of Friday 9 January 2009 the relics of St Therese's parents were joyfully welcomed into the chapel of the nuns' monastery of Vetralla, Italy. Louis and Zelie Martin were beatified in Lisieux last 19 October.The nuns provided the lead in the devotions of the many faithful present with prayers, hymns and readings from the biographies of the two blesseds so that the full value of their married witness could be appreciated. The highpoint of the event was undoubtedly the solemn eucharist at which Cardinal Achille Silvestrini presided, together with the Bishop of Viterbo, Mons. Lorenzo Chiarinelli,
In their respective remarks, both the Cardinal and the Bishop underlined the relevance and the urgency of the parents' witness for families today. They also pointed out that it was possible to direct the sacrament of matrimony to the perfection of charity by accepting the grace which came with the married state.
Many prayers for intercession were directed to the two blesseds for the mission of couples, fathers and mothers, educators and formators in the life of faith. The faithful continued to visit the relics in the chapel without interruption well into the evening.
The following day, 10 January, the reliquary urn arrived in Rome in St. Peter's Basilica, one of the last sites in Italy where they will rest. Before some 4,000 people at Wednesday's General Audience, Pope Benedict XVI referred to the couple as profound interpreters of the mystery of Christ's love.
6/2009-23-01
Promulgation of the decree on the heroic virtues of the Lay Carmelite Liberata Ferrarons y Vives
On 17 January 2009 the Holy Father, Benedict XVI, received in private audience His Excellency Mons. Angelo Amato SDB pro-Prefect of the Congregation of the Causes of Saints. In the course of the audience, the Holy Father authorised the Congregation to promulgate the decree regarding the heroic virtues of the Servant of God, Liberata Ferrarons y Vivés, Lay member of the Third Order of Carmel, born in Olot (Catalonia, Spain) on 19 April 1803, and died on 21 June 1842 also in Olot.This is the first important step on the road to beatification. It is now necessary to ask for a miracle through the intercession of the Venerable Liberata in order for her to be declared a blessed.
7/2009-25-01
First meeting of the General Commission for Evangelisation
From the 19th to 26th January 2009, the first meeting of the General Commission for Evangelisation took place at the General Curia in Rome. Present were: Desiré Unen Alimange, General Councillor, Wilfrid McGreal (Brit), Matteo Palumbo (Ita), Ronald Oakham (PCM), Antonio Silvio da Costa (Flum), Francisco Daza Valverde (Bet) and Christopher Exala (Phil).
The main thrust of the meeting focused on how to follow Jesus Christ in a changing world; how to communicate the Carmelite identity and charism in various parts of the world; how in the present the complex changing reality of our world so as to live as prophets, praying communities, living in allegiance to Jesus Christ. The meeting took as its starting point a reflection on Luke 4:16-21 where Jesus in the synagogue at Nazareth proclaims his manifesto for the coming of the Kingdom.Each of the commission members shared something of the work of their province or region pointing up the ways our Carmelite Charism impacts on the local situation. In the world of the 21st century, with serious global issues especially the economic crisis, it was clear that Carmelites have a spirituality of substance to offer to their contemporaries. Notable in sharing the charism is: collaboration with the Carmelite Family, empowering lay people and fostering effective collaboration, sharing in positive interfaith and ecumenical activity and being involved in humanitarian work.
Some negatives were pointed out such as clericalism, individualism and a lack of openness to the signs of the times. Remembering to be praying communities, urged on by a love to serve the people, is necessary.
A morning was given over in order to visit Vatican Radio where the commission members were interviewed for the various languages programmes. This visit emphasised the need to use the new technology to facilitate communication with young people. The next meeting of the Commission will be in Recife, Brazil, November 10-15 2009.
8/2009-26-01
Developments in Lithuania
Developments in the establishment of a Carmelite presence in Lithuania continue to take place. Tjeu Timmermans and Johan Hettinga of the Dutch Province were in Lithuania November last, staying two days in Vilnius. They met in the Church of All Saints (Vilnius) to celebrate the Eucharist and share some thoughts with the Flos Carmeli Group. It is envisaged that this group will organize an introductory meeting to Carmelite Spirituality each year and the Carmelites will also make their contribution to these gatherings. Frs Tjeu and Johan also spent two days at the residence of the Bishop of Siauliai, Mons. Eugenius, were they held meetings there on the theme of “God builds community.” A group of 35 young people traveled to the International Taizé Meeting in Brussels after Christmas and on their way stayed overnight in Boxmeer, where they had a very fruitful discussion and question session. Frs Tjeu and Johan will return to Lithuania shortly where two new members of the Third Order will be accepted as candidates in Vilnius. In the city of Kaunas they will have an interview on television about the Carmelite Order in general and the Order in Lithuania. Next July they will celebrate the feast of our Lady of Mount Carmel once again in Linkuva and also the usual Summer Camp will take place.
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124/2008-2-12
Canonical Visitation by the Prior General in Africa III
Canonical Visitation by the Prior General in Africa III
With the visit to the two communities in Burkina Faso (Bobo-Dioulasso and Ougadougou), the visitation of the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. and Fr. Desiré Unen Alimange, O.Carm. in Africa ended. There only remains the visit to the Commissariat of the Congo, which will take place after the Provincial Chapter of the Italian Province and the Assembly of the Commissariat.
In Burkina Faso, the Prior General met with the brothers, and with the postulants, novices and students, who in themselves represent a great hope for the burkinabé Carmel. The Prior General visited some of the communities of Donum Dei women, and saw in person the social projects that the Carmelites are carrying out in that country. He visited also the prison of Bobo-Dioulasso where the Carmelites have been chaplains for many years.
On his return to Rome from Africa, the Prior General took part in the 72nd General Assembly of the Union of Superiors General (USG). At the end of various discussions, the representatives of the USG for the forthcoming Assembly of the special Synod on Africa were elected. This Synod has been set by Pope Benedict XVI for October 2009 and will address the theme: The Church in Africa at the service of reconciliation, justice and peace.
125/2008-03-12
Community retreat of the General Curia
On Sunday 30th November 2008 the members of the General Curia gathered for a day of retreat at the beginning of Advent. Archbishop Luis Francisco Ladaria Ferrer, S.J, Secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, accepted the invitation to give the retreat. The vast experience of this noted theologian enriched the Curia community leaving a lasting impression, deepening their preparation for Christmas.
126/2008-05-12
Meeting of the International Formation Commission
A special meeting of the International Formation Commission of the Order took place in Rome, from the 18th to the 19th of November last. The purpose of this extraordinary meeting was to discuss the style, method and contents of the international courses on formation run by the International Commission. In the context of the Six-year Global Plan of the General Council and the recommendations of the General Chapter, the commission began its work by considering the theme of “mystagogy”. Also participating and assisting the Commission in this reflective process, were the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral and Professor Donna Orsuto of the Gregorian University, Rome. Specific programmes were prepared for the next 5 years for formators, and those in initial and on-going formation. The Commission, led by the Councillor General for Formation, John Keating, also considered some of the work that needed to be done regarding the initial responses received from the provinces relating to the revision of the RIVC. The meeting ended with Evening Prayer, supper and discussion on the work of the Commission hosted by the Carmelite formation community of San Martino, Rome. Following the commission meeting in Rome, a detailed programme of the course for those in initial formation in the Holy Land next summer was prepared by Frs. John Keating, Mario Alfarano, Secretary General/Commission Secretary and Alexander Vella, Maltese Provincial. This sub-committee met in Malta on the 21st and 22nd of November.
127/2008-08-12
Inter-congregational Committee for the Emergency in the Congo
During the course of a meeting in November of the representatives of the orders and missionary congregations working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, at which the Carmelites also participated, an Inter-congregational Committee for the Emergency in the Congo (CIEG) was established. The meeting which took place at the headquarters of International Union of Superiors General ((UISG) and the Union of Superiors General (USG) was attended by about one hundred religious, among whom was Fr. Désiré Unen Alimange O.Carm., Councillor General for Africa, together with representatives of different groups and NGO's present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The CIEG is entrusted with the task of collecting and centralizing information, appeals, news, initiatives, and primarily to put in place a "single strategy and coordination" for the missionary institutes. Among the orders and missionary congregations united at the centre of the CIEG were the Dehonians, the Paulist Sisters, the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), the Comboniani, the Saverians, the White Fathers, Barnabites and Carmelites. The houses of our Order are not in the actual critical zone in the East of the Congo.
128/2008-12-12
New look for the Order’s website
At the beginning of the new liturgical year the Carmelite Order unveiled its newly revamped website at www.ocarm.org. This is the third time that the site has been completely updated. This revision is undertaken periodically so that the site meets the needs of its various visitors.
The Order’s site is in three languages: English, Spanish and Italian. The first page of the site appears in English for no other reason than that is the most widely spoken language in the world. Visitors can, of course, choose another language immediately, even while navigating.
The main logo is attractive and represents the shield and hills of Carmel. Navigation is made easy through three menus, a horizontal one for interactive options and two side bars. The left hand one for general information about the Order and the right hand one for news of current activities. In the centre of the page the latest issue of CITOC-on line appears with news of the Carmelite family. CITOC on line will continue to be sent separately as an email for those who wish to receive it directly. The site offers many interesting pages and one of the most popular is that dedicated to lectio divina, a daily reflection on the day’s gospel from the Mass.
Visitors will now find an attractive, elegant and easy-to-read site, where they can find a wealth of material to read. Since the previous site was made up of hundreds of pages and the process of transfer is ongoing, there are still some empty pages. We are also thinking of offering new services, such as access to the Carmelite Library catalogue.
Already in the first week of operation an impressive 111,500 pages have been visited and the webmaster has received many messages of support and congratulations. This shows how alive the Carmelite charism is in the hearts of many Christians and how many others desire to drink from this spiritual fountain.
The Carmelite website appeared on the internet for the first time on 28 February, 1997.It has been edited by Fr. Anthony Cilia O. Carm. from its inception, with the technical assistance of Mr. Donald Bagalà.
129/2008-14-12
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Onteniente, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Onteniente, Spain, was held 9th of November 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Ma. Magdalena Pla Tortosa, O.Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Ma. Virtutes Jorda Abad, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Ma. Margarita Medina Armas, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Ma. Magdalena Pla Tortosa, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Ma. Concepción Mico Guerola, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Ma. Lourdes Font Font, O.Carm.
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Vilafranca del Penedés, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Vilafranca del Penedés, Spain, was held 30th of October 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Ma. Josefina Amigó, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Anna Maria Xirinacs, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Josepa Francesca Castells, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor Sr. Ma. Juliana Kanini, O.Carm.
4th Councilor Sr. Ma. Caterina Mwikali, O.Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Anna Maria Xirinacs, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Ma. Caterina Mwikali, O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Ma. Cristina Ngami, O. Carm.
130/2008-16-12
Titus Brandsma Memorial Project, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
During the last General Chapter, the Titus Brandsma Memorial Project (TBM) in Nijmegen was announced and shown on DVD. All the Provincial Superiors agreed to encourage their local Carmelite Communities to cooperate financially, putting their names on the memorial wall. Most of the Provinces and Commissariats have responded generously. Also the Carmelite Monasteries of cloistered nuns and many Congregations of Carmelite Sisters have given their donations and their names to be put on the memorial wall.
Donations received so far have reached the amount of 51,000 Euro. The Board of the TBM foundation expresses their heartfelt thanks to all members of the Carmelite Family who have responded so far and with such generosity.
Since then, the Bishop of the diocese of Den Bosch has transferred the property of the Titus Brandsma Memorial Church to the Dutch Carmelite Province.
The municipality of Nijmegen is cooperating in every way so that the project will have the necessary permits to get the construction of the project started early in 2009.
131/2008-18-12
Meeting of the Central Committee of the Institutum Carmelitanum
In the middle of November the new Central Committee of the Institutum Carmelitanum met in CISA in Rome. There were many items on the agenda, among which the need to relaunch research and publications about the spiritual and theological tradition of Carmel. The committee set out a programme of studies on contemplation and other themes. Among the new initiatives it was decided to open a web site for the Institutum Carmelitanum and the commencement of an on line Carmelite bio-bibliography. The committee is still working on a revised list of fellows and there is also a plan to institute various grants in order to stimulate research. Another essential topic that was dealt with was co-ordination with other research institutes of the Order around the world.
132/2008-19-12
Regional Meeting in Asia-Australia-Oceania
The regional meeting of superiors of Asia-Australia-Oceania was held at Saint Joseph Carmelite house in Bali, Indonesia, from November 21-25, 2008. Those who attended the meeting were: Wayne Stanhope and Bruce Clark (Australia), Mario Esposito (SEL-Vietnam), Artimeo Jusayan and Christian Buenafe (Philippines), Mathew Sojan Neendoor (St.Thomas, India), Jacob Robin (Indian Latin Rite), Augusto Sampaio (Timor Leste), Heribertus Heru Purwanto (Indonesia), Bernardus Teguh and Leonardus Djawa (Commissaries of Indonesia), and Albertus Magnus Herwanta (General Councilor for Asia-Australia-Oceania).
Having listened to the message of the Prior General, the meeting began. All participants were actively involved in dialogue and discussion on formation, JPIC, and the building up of a Carmelite family in and for the region, as well as for the whole Order. Our missions in Kenya, Vietnam, East Timor, and Papua New Guinea were also presented and discussed. The meeting agreed:
(1) to train Carmelite formators in guiding formandi to become prayers, vocational accompaniment, how to ground our formation programs in our Carmelite spirituality and biblical tradition, understanding a new generation of candidates, helping formators address the human agenda, (2) to build communication among the formators using media, especially a "chat" program to share, discuss, plan our formation materials, files, photos, and information, (3) to continue studying and exploring the possibilities of establishing a community in Singapore and Hong Kong. On November 23 all participants went sightseeing in Bali. The meeting was very positive, communicative, and constructive. Those attending were very grateful to the Saint Joseph community who hosted the meeting and to Ag. Paryono and Frans Sulistyo, the secretaries.
133/2008-21-12
Meeting of O. Carm. and OCD General Councils
On 18 December there was a meeting of the two General Councils (O. Carm and OCD) in Rome in the OCD Curia house. These meetings take place on a regular basis, twice a year, to discuss issues of common interest and to share ideas and concerns. This was the last meeting with the present OCD council since in April they will be celebrating their general chapter in Fatima.
Among the various topics raised, was the possible translation of the Dizionario Carmelitano into English and Spanish, various courses and congresses both branches are preparing and the next meeting of ALACAR (Latin American Association of Carmelites) in Colombia next October. As is the custom, both councils exchanged gifts and recent publications. The meeting ended with a fraternal lunch in an atmosphere of joy and sharing.
134/2008-23-12
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
03-12-08 P. Gerard Buijvoets (Neer)
07-12-08 P. Gregory Moore (Aust)
135/2008-24-12
“Ubi venit plenitudo temporis,
misit Deus Filium suum,
factum ex muliere, factum sub lege,
ut eos, qui sub lege erant, redimeret,
ut adoptionem filiorum reciperemus”
Gal 4,4-5
CHRISTUS NATUS EST NOBIS! VENITE ADOREMUS!
NATALE HILARE ET ANNUM FAUSTUM
25.XII.2008
FERNANDO PRIOR GENERALIS ET DOMUSQUE GENERALIS COMMUNITAS
136/2008-27-12
Closure of the Diocesan process for the canonization of the Servant of God, Asumción Soler Gimeno
NATALE HILARE ET ANNUM FAUSTUM
25.XII.2008
FERNANDO PRIOR GENERALIS ET DOMUSQUE GENERALIS COMMUNITAS
136/2008-27-12
Closure of the Diocesan process for the canonization of the Servant of God, Asumción Soler Gimeno
Last Saturday, 20th December, the closing session of the Diocesan process for the process of canonization of the foundress of the Congregation of the Carmelite Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Servant of God Asumción Soler Gimeno took place. This solemn act was presided over by Mons. Fidel Herráez Vegas, Auxiliary Bishop of Madrid, delegate of the Cardinal Archbishop Antonio Mª Rouco Varela. The act of closure took place in the auditorium “Ángel Herrera Oria” of the Paul VI Foundation, part of the Pontifical University of Salamanca, based in Madrid. There were nunerous Carmelites present from all the provinces of the Iberian region, sisters of the Spanish Congregations and a fine represantation of Carmelite laity.
137/2008-31-12
Causa nostrae letitiae (November-December 2008)
Professio Temporanea
03-11-08: Esmeralda Awil Lasola (DUM)
08-12-08: Emily Mbinya Muthusi (ZAR)
Professio Sollemne
14-11-08: Francis Xavier Chinh Nguyen (SEL)
Ordinatio Sacerdotalis
29-11-08: Juracy Barbosa (Pern)
13-12-08: Cleidimar Vilela Roquim (GerS)
20-12-08: Christopher Iannizzotto (SEL)
21-12-08: Atanael Lima de Almeida (Flum)
27-12-08: Shiju George Njaralampuzha (Ind)
108/2008-02-11
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
17-10-08: P. Joachim Knoblauch (GerS)
17-10-08: Sr. Judith Borges Espinheira (JAB)
23-10-08: Sr. Katharine Gerards (NUL)
17-10-08: Sr. Judith Borges Espinheira (JAB)
23-10-08: Sr. Katharine Gerards (NUL)
109/2008-03-11
Changes in Edizioni Carmelitane
Fr. Evaldo Xavier Gomes O.Carm. (Flum.) is finishing his term of office as Administrator of Edizioni Carmelitane, which was concurrent with the period of his doctoral studies. The Prior General and his Council thank him for his service during which he encouraged both the quantity and quality of Edizioni's publications.
From December 1, 2008, the administrative and editorial management of Edizioni will be taken over by a commission made up of Frs. Christian Körner, Giovanni Grosso and Kevin Alban.
The General Council also decided to move the offices of Edizioni from CISA to the Curia in Via Giovanni Lanza, locating them on the ground floor of the building recently vacated by the Missionary Familiy 'Donum Dei', which used the premises for formation purposes.
From December 1, 2008, the administrative and editorial management of Edizioni will be taken over by a commission made up of Frs. Christian Körner, Giovanni Grosso and Kevin Alban.
The General Council also decided to move the offices of Edizioni from CISA to the Curia in Via Giovanni Lanza, locating them on the ground floor of the building recently vacated by the Missionary Familiy 'Donum Dei', which used the premises for formation purposes.
110/2008-05-11
Colloquium of Carmelite Schools in the U.S.A.
The Carmelite Secondary Schools of the U.S.A. held their tri-annual Colloquium from October 11-14 in Mundelein, Illinois. About forty representatives, both Carmelites and lay staff, from six high schools of the United States and Peru, gathered to discuss their future in the educational ministry. The reality of fewer Carmelites being able to serve at the schools, especially in administrative roles, was the main focus of the meeting and trying to find ways that the laity can take on more responsibility for the schools and still keep them as uniquely Carmelite. The four guest speakers included Fr. Leopold Glueckert, O.Carm.; Fr. Joseph Atcher, O. Carm.; Dr. Carole Goodwin, the Chair of the Board for the National Association of Catholic Youth Ministers; and Ms. Alice Hession, the national Director for Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools. Also present was Fr. Raúl Maraví, O. Carm., General Councilor for the Carmelite Schools and Youth.
111/2008-07-11
Meeting of the Carmelite Family of Catalonia
On Saturday 25th October last the Carmelites of the Catalan Province met together with their relatives to celebrate at a gathering of the Carmelite Family. This marked the occasion of the first anniversary of the beatification of 17 martyrs from the time of the religious persecution in Spain, which took place in 1936. In the place of martyrdom of the twelve Carmelites of the convent of Tàrrega, Fr. Josep Solé, O.Carm., brother of one of the blesseds, spoke wonderfully about the deep significance of their death. Following this, in the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs, Fr. Raúl V. Masana, O.Carm. (Provincial), presided at concelebrated Mass, which concluded with veneration of the relics of the martyrs. Finally, the 170 participants got together for a festive lunch, sharing with the families of the martyrs the joy and the fraternity always alive in Carmel.
112/2008-10-11
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Roxas, Philippines
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Roxas, Philippines, was held 31 October 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Mª Catalina Elum, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Mª Ana Abrogar, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Mª Maravillas Magas, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Mª Saturnina Gacoscosim, O. Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. Mª Rosalita Mendez, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Mª Ana Abrogar, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Mª Saturnina Gacoscosim, O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Mª Linda Garcia, O.Carm.
Prioress: Sr. Mª Catalina Elum, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Mª Ana Abrogar, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Mª Maravillas Magas, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Mª Saturnina Gacoscosim, O. Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. Mª Rosalita Mendez, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Mª Ana Abrogar, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Mª Saturnina Gacoscosim, O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Mª Linda Garcia, O.Carm.
113/2008-12-11
Causa nostrae letitiae (September - October 2008)
Initium Novitiatus
07-09-08: Charles Kambale Muke (Ita)
07-09-08: Gilbert Paluku Musungara (Ita)
07-09-08: David Kopa (Ita)
07-09-08: Innocent Djombu (Ita)
07-09-08: Aimé Ufoymungu Wathum (Ita)
07-09-08: Jean-Vianney Alipacu Ukerdogu (Ita)
07-09-08: Jean-Claude Isusi (Ita)
07-09-08: Edmond Lori Londjiringa (Ita)
30-09-08: Jiri Dolezalek (BM)
Professio Temporanea
06-09-08: Martin Gilloux (Gal)
08-09-08: Glenn Attard (Mel)
08-09-08: Aimé Dundji Dhessaba Mugisa (Ita)
08-09-08: André Tulengi-Biba-a-Kusangisa (Ita)
08-09-08: Jean-Louis Kambale Mwengesyali (Ita)
08-09-08: Alexandre Kabongo wa Kabongo (Ita)
14-09-08: Isaías Ramírez (Ita)
14-09-08: Rodolfo Chávez (Ita)
14-09-08: John Harold Castañeda (Ita)
15-10-08: Damaris Wairimu Mwangi (KAL)
15-10-08: Mary Kamene Muia (KAL)
15-10-08: Victoria Mwithi Kimeu (KAL)
15-10-08: Rosemay Wausi Nzioka (KAL)
16-10-08: Mary Clare Kalady Bomani (MAC)
16-10-08: Mary Angeline Kanini Muthini (MAC)
16-10-08: Mary Joseph Kaindi Nzau (MAC)
21-10-08: M. Alessandra Foti (CAR)
12-10-08: Tobias Kraus (GerS)
Professio Sollemne
08-09-08: Georges Kabuli Ndiya (Ita)
08-09-08: Jean-Pierre Wakung’a Unyuti (Ita)
23-09-08: Victor Paul Farrugia (Mel)
23-09-08: Daniel Galea (Mel)
11-10-08: Francesco Sciarelli (Ita)
11-10-08: Simeone Brovelli (Ita)
114/2008-14-11
Canonical visitation of the Prior General to Africa II
The second part of the Canonical Visitation by the Prior General to Africa, accompanied by the Councillor General for Africa Fr. Desiré Unen Alimange O.Carm., began on 26th October in Zimbabwe, where they met all the brethren, including postulants, novices and students. They also visited the different missions of the Commisariat.
As well as these visits, they met with the Superior General of the Carmelite Sisters of Zimbabwe (Handmaids of Our Lady of Mount Carmel), Mother Evelyn Kadzere; and lastly they presided at the assembly of the students of Kriste Mambo College.
The Prior General then moved on to visit the Delegation in Cameroon, where he met the people of the two parishes belonging to the Carmelites as well as the brethren, students, novices and postulants.
Without doubt, Carmel in Africa is growing quickly, and this is a cause of joy for the whole Carmelite family.
115/2008-16-11
The Carmelite Third Order continues to grow in the Philippines
As well as these visits, they met with the Superior General of the Carmelite Sisters of Zimbabwe (Handmaids of Our Lady of Mount Carmel), Mother Evelyn Kadzere; and lastly they presided at the assembly of the students of Kriste Mambo College.
The Prior General then moved on to visit the Delegation in Cameroon, where he met the people of the two parishes belonging to the Carmelites as well as the brethren, students, novices and postulants.
Without doubt, Carmel in Africa is growing quickly, and this is a cause of joy for the whole Carmelite family.
115/2008-16-11
The Carmelite Third Order continues to grow in the Philippines
The Carmelite Third Order in the Philippines has started to grow once again after it declined in 2004, because of the reforms made particularly in the area of formation. Last October 25, Fr. Noel Rosas, O.Carm, the Provincial Delegate to the TOC, celebrated the opening Mass for the establishment of the Sts. Elijah and Elisha TOC Community at the Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Baliuag, Bulacan. Seventeen (17) aspirants were accepted in the new community. These were former members of the Scapular Confraternity. Also, initiatives in forming another TOC community at the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene (Quiapo Church) were made by Msgr. Jose Clemente F. Ignacio, who is also a TOC and rector of the basilica. The National TOC Council, represented by Rosalie Castro, TOCarm and Ruel Santos, TOCarm, gave some input on the nature of the Third Order to the prospective members last November 8 at the Quiapo Church. At present, there are 21 canonical communities and 7 communities-in-formation of the TOC in the Philippines.
Vitamitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
02-11-08: Fr. Teodoro Krucoski (GerS)
15-11-08: P. Eamon Carroll (PCM)
16-11-08: P. Hendrik (Benitius) Egberink, Neer Ex Consiliarius Generalis (1977-1983)
117/2008-18-11
General Chapter of the Carmelite missionary sisters St. Theresa of the Child Jesus
The General Chapter of the Carmelite missionary sisters St. Theresa of the Child Jesus was held 14-16 November 2008 at Santa Marinella, Italy. The following were elected:
Superior General: Mother M. Madalena Tada
Vicar General and
1st Councilor: Sr. Mariassunta Colombo
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Ronilse Mendes Da Silva
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Corazon D. Lao
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Lilian G. Kapongo
Superior General: Mother M. Madalena Tada
Vicar General and
1st Councilor: Sr. Mariassunta Colombo
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Ronilse Mendes Da Silva
3rd Councilor: Sr. M. Corazon D. Lao
4th Councilor: Sr. M. Lilian G. Kapongo
118/2008-20-11
Meeting of the Carmelite (O.Carm.) and Discalced Carmelite (OCD) Provincials in Madrid
The annual meeting of the Conference of Provincials of the Iberian Region (Spain and Portugal) took place in Madrid on 10th November 2008. These meetings alternate between the houses of the two branches of the Order. This year it took place at the community of the Discalced Carmelites in Plaza España, Madrid. Present on behalf of the OCD’s were Frs. Emilio Martínez, Prov. of Castiglia, Gratiniano Turiño, Delegate for Castiglia, Pascual Gil, Prov. of Aragón and Valencia, Agustín Borrel, Prov. of Catalogna, Francisco Jaén, Prov. of Andalucía, Pedro Ferreira, Prov. of Portogallo, Fidel Gil, Delegate of Burgos, Alfredo Amesti, Delegate of Navarra. From the O.Carm.’s were Frs. Carmelo Gómez, Prov. of Arago-Valentina, Rafael Leiva, Prov. of Betica, Miguel Ángel Pérez, Prov. of Castiglia, Raúl Masana, Prov. of Catalogna and Agostinho Castro, Commissary Gen. of Portugal.
Matters considered at the the meeting were: the restructuring of the O.Carm. Provinces and what has been accomplished; the General Chapter of the OCD’s which will take place in April 2009 in Fatima and the preparations for the 5th centenary of the birth of St. Teresa of Jesus in 2015 - an event we are invited to celebrate together; the interprovincial vocations work of both brances; the joint publication of the Liturgy of the Hours and Carmelite Missal. Information was also given on the Canonization of Beato Nuno. The meeting was very productive and in a very relaxed atmosphere. It was the first meeting of the Provincials since the Provincial Chapters of 2008, most of whom were newly elected.
Matters considered at the the meeting were: the restructuring of the O.Carm. Provinces and what has been accomplished; the General Chapter of the OCD’s which will take place in April 2009 in Fatima and the preparations for the 5th centenary of the birth of St. Teresa of Jesus in 2015 - an event we are invited to celebrate together; the interprovincial vocations work of both brances; the joint publication of the Liturgy of the Hours and Carmelite Missal. Information was also given on the Canonization of Beato Nuno. The meeting was very productive and in a very relaxed atmosphere. It was the first meeting of the Provincials since the Provincial Chapters of 2008, most of whom were newly elected.
Meeting of the Joint Group with the Conference of Provincials (O.Carm.) of the Iberian Region
On the afternoon of 10th November, the Joint Group met together with the Conference of Provincials (O.Carm.) of the Iberian Region at our house in Ayala, Madrid. Matters considered were: the interprovincial commissions; publication of the “Testi per un Millenio” (Texts for a Millenium), subsidized by the Iberian Region, the last three volumes of which were on St. Franco di Siena and were launched on the 4th October, to which CITOC-online recently made reference; the web page of the of the Iberian Region about which Fr. José A. Lizondo, who has responsibility for the initiate, spoke; the finances of the Region; the publication of the Liturgy of the Hours and the Missal nearing completion, as Fr. Alberto Yubero O.Carm., member of the mixed commission of both groups informed the meeting.
At the end of the meeting, there was a pleasant surprise with a visit from the Prior General who was in Madrid returning from Africa. He shared his very favourable impressions about the decisions taken during some recent Provincial Chapters on the restructuring of the Provinces. He also gave information of the youth pilgrimage in Europe and on other matters.
At the end of the meeting, there was a pleasant surprise with a visit from the Prior General who was in Madrid returning from Africa. He shared his very favourable impressions about the decisions taken during some recent Provincial Chapters on the restructuring of the Provinces. He also gave information of the youth pilgrimage in Europe and on other matters.
119/2008-22-11
First Solemn Profession in Vietnam
For the first time, the male branch of the Carmelite Order has celebrated the rite of solemn profession in Vietnam. As members of the North American Province of St. Elias, all those previously making vows did so in the United States. For the first time, on November 14, 2008, the Feast of All Carmelite Saints, a solemn profession was celebrated in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam with the Prior Provincial, Fr. Michael Kissane (SEL) receiving the vows of Brother Francis Xavier Chinh Nguyen who is presently in the third year of theology in the Dominican Center in Ho Chi Minh City. It was a joyous day for this young foundation of the Order begun in 1995. The first of three houses was opened in 1996 by the Curia. Presently, there are ten solemnly professed Vietnamese of whom six are priests and two deacons. There are seven simply professed, one novice, five pre-novices and 24 candidates and aspirants. The relationship between the Church and the government remains quite fragile in Vietnam with many recent difficulties. Because our religious are unofficial in the eyes of the State, they live carefully, quietly and yet actively. Under the patronage of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, though, the future looks bright for this new branch of the Order in Asia.
120/2008-24-11
Carmelite NGO Observes World Human Rights Day with a Day of Prayer
The Carmelite NGO announces a Day of Prayer in observance of World Human Rights Day, December 10, 2008. The focus of the Day of Prayer is to call attention to the violence that is robbing people of their human rights.
United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said, “It is our duty to ensure that these rights are a living reality – that they are known, understood and enjoyed by everyone everywhere.”
The Carmelite NGO is inviting people to join in solidarity with the peoples of the world that are suffering violence in any form- be it from war, hunger, lack of education, lack of medical care or lack of a healthy environment.
A booklet entitled “A Day of Prayer” designed specifically for use on December 10th is being made available at no charge for anyone interested. The booklet is an instrument calling upon all to join in solidarity against violence in all it forms, especially as it occurs in Zimbabwe.
To obtain a copy of the “A Day of Prayer” booklet, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your name and mailing address. Copies can also be downloaded from the website of the Carmelite NGO (www.carmelitengo.org).
The Carmelite NGO was affiliated to the Department of Public Information of the United Nations in December 2001. It is the representative body to the United Nations for the men and women around the world who are members of the Carmelite Order and the Order’s ministries.
121/2008-24-11
Festschrift for a Carmelite scholar
On Friday 15th November 2008, a Festschrift was presented to Kees Waaijman O.Carm., at the Radboud University in the city of Nijmegen, The Netherlands. This Festschrift was compiled by the colleagues and confrères of Kees to mark his 65th birthday. It was presented to him at a spirituality symposium, which was attended by some 800 people. As the successor of the late prof. Otger Steggink o.carm. (Fr. Otger died on 20-11-08. R.I.P.), Kees Waaijman was Professor of the History and Systematics of Spirituality from 1989 to 2007 at the same Radboud University of Nijmegen. He continues to work as scientific director of the Titus Brandsma Institute, where he makes a wonderful contribution to the digital community ‘Spirituality International’ (SPIRIN). The title of the Festschrift is ‘Seeing the Seeker, Explorations in the Discipline of Spirituality’. It is edited by Hein Blommestijn O.Carm., Charles Caspers, Rijcklof Hofman, Frits Mertens, Peter Nissen and Huub Welzen O.Carm., with the help of Wendy Litjens, and it is published by Peeters Publishers, Leuven. There are 687 pages in this book where one finds a bibliographical sketch of Kees Waaijman and an extensive bibliography. There are also 42 explorations in the field of the scientific study of spirituality. Following the presentation of the book, Kees Waaijman expressed his gratitude to the authors both those present and those unable to be there.
United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said, “It is our duty to ensure that these rights are a living reality – that they are known, understood and enjoyed by everyone everywhere.”
The Carmelite NGO is inviting people to join in solidarity with the peoples of the world that are suffering violence in any form- be it from war, hunger, lack of education, lack of medical care or lack of a healthy environment.
A booklet entitled “A Day of Prayer” designed specifically for use on December 10th is being made available at no charge for anyone interested. The booklet is an instrument calling upon all to join in solidarity against violence in all it forms, especially as it occurs in Zimbabwe.
To obtain a copy of the “A Day of Prayer” booklet, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your name and mailing address. Copies can also be downloaded from the website of the Carmelite NGO (www.carmelitengo.org).
The Carmelite NGO was affiliated to the Department of Public Information of the United Nations in December 2001. It is the representative body to the United Nations for the men and women around the world who are members of the Carmelite Order and the Order’s ministries.
121/2008-24-11
Festschrift for a Carmelite scholar
On Friday 15th November 2008, a Festschrift was presented to Kees Waaijman O.Carm., at the Radboud University in the city of Nijmegen, The Netherlands. This Festschrift was compiled by the colleagues and confrères of Kees to mark his 65th birthday. It was presented to him at a spirituality symposium, which was attended by some 800 people. As the successor of the late prof. Otger Steggink o.carm. (Fr. Otger died on 20-11-08. R.I.P.), Kees Waaijman was Professor of the History and Systematics of Spirituality from 1989 to 2007 at the same Radboud University of Nijmegen. He continues to work as scientific director of the Titus Brandsma Institute, where he makes a wonderful contribution to the digital community ‘Spirituality International’ (SPIRIN). The title of the Festschrift is ‘Seeing the Seeker, Explorations in the Discipline of Spirituality’. It is edited by Hein Blommestijn O.Carm., Charles Caspers, Rijcklof Hofman, Frits Mertens, Peter Nissen and Huub Welzen O.Carm., with the help of Wendy Litjens, and it is published by Peeters Publishers, Leuven. There are 687 pages in this book where one finds a bibliographical sketch of Kees Waaijman and an extensive bibliography. There are also 42 explorations in the field of the scientific study of spirituality. Following the presentation of the book, Kees Waaijman expressed his gratitude to the authors both those present and those unable to be there.
50 years of the Carmelite Monastery at Dumaguete City, Philippines
On 16th of November 2008, the Carmelite Monastery of Our Lady of Maravillas and St. Joseph, Agan-an, Sibulan, Dumaguete City, Philippines, celebrated its Golden Jubilee of foundation, and simultaneously the Silver Jubilee of the Dedication of the Carmelite Church. The concelebrated Eucharist was presided over by the M. Rev. John F. Du, Bishop of Dumaguete. Before the celebration of the Eucharist, the M. Rev. Onesimo C. Gordoncillo, Archbishop of Capiz, blessed the images of St. Thérèse and Bl. Louis Martin located in the inner yard of the cloister. Among the five bishops, and more than a thousand participants, was the Very Rev. Artemio D. Jusayan, O.Carm., Commissary General, together with many Philippine Carmelites also present at the jubilee celebration.
After supper, there was the launch of the Golden Jubilee Book “El Sueño Dorado” (The Golden Dream), a history of Dumaguete Carmel, which was followed by a concert (Voces Doradas) given by the sisters, together with the orphans of the Casa Miani. As part of the concert, there was a video documentary of the nuns’ life in the monastery. Everything was shown on television and even repeated the following days.
The Monastery of Dumaguete is the first monastery of our Order in Asia and was founded in 1958 by the monastery of “N. Sra. De las Maravillas”, Madrid, Spain.
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
20-11-08: P. Otger Steggink (Neer)
26-11-08: P. Benedictus Soegiartono (Indo)
Published in
CITOC Archive
92/2008-03-10
Annual Pilgrimage of the "Society of the Little Flower"
Annual Pilgrimage of the "Society of the Little Flower"
The annual pilgrimage of the "Society of the Little Flower" (the "Society of Saint Thérèse"), which very generously helps Carmelite missions throughout the world, took place at Aylesford, England on 28th September last. More than 400 people gathered in a festive atmosphere. In the morning, following an address of welcome by the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm., Fr. Joseph Chalmers, O.Carm. gave a conference on the spirituality of St. Thérèse and her response to the mystery of evil. In the evening, the Prior General presided at the Eucharist together with concelebrants Frs. Joseph Chalmers and Wilfrid McGreal, O.Carm., Provincial of the British Province. The Prior General in his homily pointed out how St. Thérèse revealed in her own life the centrality of love and developed it to the point of being missionary, even though she lived her life in a cloistered monastery. At the end of the Eucharist many roses were blessed and distributed to the participants.
93/2008-04-10
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
17-09-08: P. Jean Marie Nzilamba Mughasa, Ita
28-09-08: P. Gerhard Hector, GerS
First place to the Carmelite College, Lima, Peru
At the IV Exhibition of Science, Culture and Technological Innovation of MERCOSUR, Associated and Invited Countries, held in Posadas, Argentina from the 8th to 12th September, first prize went to the Carmelite College in Lima, Peru. The College of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Lima, which is part of the Peruvian Commissariate, participated for the first time in this international educational event. Their contribution was a study entitled “The influence of Caral (the most ancient culture of the Americas, going back to the year 2500 B.C.) in the economic and cultural development of the first human settlements of the late pre-ceramic period in Peru.” After five days of presentation and demonstration of an adequate methodological study, they took first place from among all the other participants.
During the meeting, 70 different types of projects and work were exhibited from the educational institutes of countries such as Bolivia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela and Argentina. All of whom contributed to the realization of this fourth international event, which saw the participation of more than 300 students and teachers.
JPIC ministry of the TOC hailed as model for BEC
In the recently concluded Diocesan Month of Formation of the Diocese of Malolos (Philippines) last September, the JPIC ministry of the Regina Décor Carmeli TOC Community was hailed as a model program for BECs (Basic Ecclesial Community) in the diocese. This was started in 2007 as collaboration with the Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Pulong Buhangin, Sta. Maria through its parish priest, Fr. Elmer Ignacio. This was started by organizing families in the depressed area of SIKAP undergoing Lectio Divina and bible study which was headed by Luz Villanueva, TOCarm. After months of formation, these families were given a livelihood seminar about rag-making from waste textiles conducted by the local social welfare office which was arranged by Estelita Libiran, TOCarm. The parish then supplied a revolving fund to start this livelihood program. As to date, the program has spread to two more depressed communities and the demands for the rags have steadily increased. The rags are sold in the local market and it is used as cleaning materials. Because of the success of the program, the lay Carmelites are represented by Lydia Bugtong, TOCarm, coordinator of the JPIC ministry, in the BEC core group of the diocese.
(From TOC National Secretariat Philippines: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)
Presentation of a new collection of books in Madrid
On 2nd October last, in the conference room of our house in Ayala, Madrid, there was a presentation of a collection of books entitled “Textos para un Milenio”. Taking part were our Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm., one of the founders of the collection together with Mrs, Henar Pizarro Llorente, professor at the Pontifical University Comillas and director of the new collection, also Mr. José Antonio Lizondo, Fr. Giovanni Grosso, O.Carm. President of the Institutum Carmelitanum in Rome and Sr. Ana Molina, President of the Equipo Mixto of the Iberian Region who sponsored the project.
The first three volumes were presented relating to St. Francis of Siena: the work of playwright Agustín Moreto, El lego del Carmen (1652), the Zarzuela (operetta) similar in form to Estremera and the Maestro Arrieta (1883), and the novel of Fr. Luis M.ª Llop, O.Carm., entitled El hijo de la Gracia (1911).
The object of this new collection is to recover various texts from the history of Carmel, either in Castillian or other languages, which will be published together with a fitting introductory study on the author, the work and its context, in order to make these texts available to the general public in the Castilian language.
General Finance Commission – October 2008
The General Finance Commission of the Order held its first meeting of the 2007-2013 sexenium in the Curia house from 6 to 8 October. Members were brought up to date on the Order’s financial state with a review of the Curia’s income and expenditure and presentations on the Society of the Little Flower and on the Domus Carmelitana. Two lay experts on the commission guided discussions on the impact of the current financial crisis on investments and fund raising. The commission examined the Curia budgets for the coming year and began planning for the Triennial Bursars’ Meeting which will be held in October 2009. The next meeting of the commission will be in March 2009, and will take the form of a joint meeting with the Domus Management Board for some of the time.
Carmelite cultural activity in Rome
On the occasion of the 12th General Ordinary Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on "The Word of God in the life and mission of the Church", which is taking place in Rome these days, there was a round table on October 9th last directed by Fr. Bruno Secondin, O.Carm in the conference room of the Libereria Dehoniana on the Via della Conciliazione, Rome. The initiative was in relation to the experience of Lectio Divina which for many years has taken place very successfully in our church of S. Maria in Transpontina in Rome. Its many fruits are recorded in the Rotem collection, which already amounts to 15 published volumes. Among others participating at the round table were our Father General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. (who underlined the importance of the Word in the charism of Carmel since its origins), Mons. Benedetto Tuzia, Auxiliary Bishop of Rome, Professor Jean-Louis Ska, S.J., exegete of the Biblicum in Rome and Mons. Giuseppe Liberto, Director of the Sistine Chapel. All underlined the importance of the experience of Lectio Divina and its pastoral, spiritual and pedagogic value.
Almost at the same time and close-by, the new book of Fr. Aureliano Pacciolla, O.Carm. was launched in the Marconi Room of Vatican Radio, entitled La vulnerabilitá psichica e il pericolo delle sette (The psychic vulnerability and danger of sects). Participating were Cardinal Oscar Andrés Rodríguez Maradiaga who presided, Professor Eugenio Fizzotti, head of Psychology of Religion at the Universitá Pontificia Salesiana, Rome and Professor Giuseppe Costa, Director of L.E.V. (Libreria Editrice Vaticana). The Vice-General, Fr. Christian Körner, O.Carm. was present on behalf of the General Curia. Fr. Aureliano presented a detailed analysis of the relationship between the two concepts and underlined the present reality and importance of the topic especially in those parts of the world where various types of sects are growing in an extraordinary way.
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
07-10-08: P. Philip Gabriel O’Brien, Hib
09-10-08: P. Joseph Piet Vollering, Neer
Beatification of Zélie and Louis Martin
St. Thérèse of Lisieux’s parents, Zélie and Louis Martin, were beatified today, Sunday 19th October in Lisieux. Pope Benedict’s legate, Cardinal José Saraiva Martins, presided over the solemn Eucharistic celebration in the Basilica of St. Thérèse. Among the very many pilgrims from all over the world were a large group from the Carmelite Family and the General Curia of the Order was represented by Fr. John Keating, Councillor General for Europe.
This is the first time in the history of the Church that both parents of a saint have been beatified together.
Meeting of formators of Northern Europe
From 6 -10 October 2008 a meeting was held for the formators of Ireland, United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic and the Netherlands, in the formation house in Boxmeer (the Netherlands).
The topic was vocation and discernment, facilitated by Kees Waaijman, O.Carm. (Ner). The participants began by exploring their own inner framework, being open and forming themselves, by means of biblical vocation stories and the three kinds of calling of John Cassian. Afterwards Fr. Kees explored with the participants the four most important aspects of diakrisis in the history of discretio spirituum. He ended with an understanding of discernment in our Rule: our Rule is an active discerning, discerning is the virtue of the virtues. The chapter (capitulum) puts it at the centre in our Rule. Our Rule indicates that this goes beyond the Rule itself.
The last day the participants talked about the situation in the different provinces and made arrangements for meetings with novices and formators for next year. The group also visited the Titus Brandsma Institute and Titus Brandsma Memorial in Nijmegen.
However, the most important part of the meeting was perhaps that the participants were themselves an open learning community.
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Fontiveros, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Fontiveros, Spain, was held 6 October 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Maria del Pilar de la Trinidad Felipe García, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Rosa Mª de Jesús Pérez Arias, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Fátima Mª de la Redención Luna Ceballos, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Fátima Mª de la Redención Luna Ceballos, O.Carm.
Honorary Chaplains of the Sanctuary of Lourdes
The recent Irish Province Pilgrimage to Lourdes for the Jubilee Year had two thousand participants. On the occasion of the Pilgrimage the Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes, Monsignor Jacques Perrier, conferred the title Honorary Chaplain of the Sanctuary of Lourdes on Fr Martin Ryan, O.Carm., White Abbey Kildare, the chief organiser of the Annual Pilgrimage, and Fr. Eoin Moore, O.Carm., Terenure College.
Fathers Martin and Eoin were presented with the pectoral cross and diploma on October 1st during the evening celebration of the Eucharist in the Underground Basilica of St. Pius X.
The first Honorary Chaplains were appointed on the 50th Anniversary of the Apparitions and the use of the pectoral cross was granted by Pius X in 1909. The conferral of this honour is an expression of gratitude for the enthusiasm and generosity of the recipients in the service of the pilgrims and the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Philippine Carmelites - New Foundations
On 19 October a new Carmelite mission was officially inaugurated in the diocese of Beirina, Papua New Guinea. In its recent chapter, the General Commissariat of the Philippines decided to make the commitment to send three friars to this country in Oceania. This new mission is a sign of the missionary dimension of the Carmelite charism and of its vitality in the Philippines.
Last June four nuns from the monastery of Cabanatuan in the Philippines began a new foundation in Marmang in the diocese Malaybalay. This new house was begun in response to a request from the local bishop and is a way of sharing the Carmelite charism in the northern part of the island of Mindanao.
The Church of S. Maria in Traspontina in Rome hosts members of the Bishops’ Synod for a theatrical performance
On Thursday 23 October an evening of entertainment was offered to members of the Bishops’ Synod on the Word of God currently meeting in Rome. The Roman company “Jobel Theatre” presented GENESI, an artistic show inspired by the synod’s theme of the Word of God, and drawing particularly on the first book of the book of Genesis, where God’s creative word occupies a prominent place as that infinite love that generates creation.
Various artists from around the world took part in the performance: actors, singers, musicians, acrobats and dancers. The show took place in the round, without any separation between artist and audience, in a unique voyage of visual and audio effects. Members of the Traspontina community and representatives of the General Curia were present for the evening.
The Prior General’s Canonical Visitation to Africa
On October 13 the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, began the first stage of his canonical visitation of Carmelites in Africa, accompanied by Fr. Desiré Unen Alimange, General Councillor for Africa. This visit is intended to give special attention to all the young Carmelite groups on this continent, in accordance with the wishes of the recent General Chapter in 2007.
The visit began in Nairobi, Kenya, in our community "Bustani ya Karmeli", whose members come from various provinces in the Order. During his time in Kenya, the Prior General received the profession of four nuns in the monastery of Juja Farm, and three nuns from Machakos. On November 2, Fr. Fernando will return to Kenya in order to preside at a celebration for lay groups that make up the Carmelite Family.
The second part of the visitation took part in Mozambique, where the General visited the Carmelite Sisters of the Sacred Heart who live in the area of Nampula and who offer an important service in difficult conditions. On Sunday 19 October in the parish of Khongolote, the members of the Pernambuco province celebrated ten years of their presence in Mozambique. The province was represented by Fr. José Roberval Mendes Pereira, O.Carm. Despite some trying times in the past, Carmel in Mozambique is growing and putting down good roots.
Meeting of Superiors from the Americas
The first meeting of superiors from the Americas was recently held in the retreat house ‘Flos Carmeli’ in Mairiporã, Brasil from 19 to 23 October. The meeting was chaired by the General Councillor for the Americas, Fr Raúl Maraví and those present included representatives of the eleven countries in the area, among whom provincials, commissaries and delegates of both friars and sisters. The meeting began with a brief reflection on the current state of the Order which has seen the unification of the Americas in one geographical area and on the great cultural and historical wealth of this continent.
The twenty four participants discussed and worked on the Order’s Global project 2007-2013 and its application in the Americas. The prayerful, family atmosphere of the group facilitated the planning of various activities and meetings to encourage mutual co-operation and the growth of the Order in the area.
The next meeting of Superiors from the Americas will take place in October 2010 in Caracas, Venezuela.
78/2008-09-09
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Sagrada Família, Torre de Moncorvo, Portugal
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Sagrada Família, Torre de Moncorvo, Portugal
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Sagrada Família, Torre de Moncorvo, Portugal, was held 25-28 of August 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Maria da Sagrada Família Costa , O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Maria Imaculada Conceição Nevado , O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Maria Imaculado Coração Martins , O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Maria da Navidade Gomes, O. Carm
4th Councilor: Sr. Maria de Cristo Rei Valdigem, O.Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Maria Imaculada Conceição Nevado , O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Maria Imaculada Conceição Nevado , O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Maria Margarete do S.C. Jesus, O.Carm.
79/2008-11-09
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
09-08-08: P. Jesús Gomez Hernandez, Cast
26-08-08: P. John Long, PCM
01-09-08: P. Liborius van Bergenhenegouwen, Ner
02-09-08: P. Ignacio Oyarzabal Macaya, Arag
Formation Course of the Federation "Mater et Décor Carmeli", Spain
On 25th August, 2008, the Federation of the Carmelite Nuns "Mater et Decor Carmeli" (Betica Province, Portugal), began their course of initial formation for the year 2008 with a celebration of the Eucharist, celebrated by Very Rev. Rafael Leiva, O.Carm. Fr. Alfonso Moreno González, O.Carm. concelebrated. The course is open to all the solemnly professed nuns of the thirteen federated monasteries wishing to participate.
This year 11 temporary professed nuns from the monasteries of Aracena, Estepona, Osuna and Seville will take part. The main theme of the nine-week course is "The life of God in us". It will be divided in different parts: 1) Liturgy and song; 2) Manual work: painting; 3) Scripture: The Letters of St. John; 4) Moral Theology: the commandments; 5) Carmelite Spirituality: St. Teresa of the Child Jesus; 6) History of the Order: Origin of the nuns; 7) Theological anthropology; 8) Spiritual theology: Prayer.
As envisaged by the new Ratio of the nuns (n. 132), on the nature and objective of the juniorate, it is the desire of the Federation that the young nuns become aware of and learn a single science, that of faith and the Gospel.
Activities of the Prior General to France
On 4th September last, accompanied by Fr. John Keating, O.Carm., Councillor General for Europe, Fr. Fernando Millán Romerál, O.Carm. met with the members of the Carmelite NGO who were participating in an international meeting of the United Nations in Paris.
On 5th September, together with Renée Prieur, Delegate for formation for the male branch of the Missionary Family of Donum Dei, they met the young students from this group in Lisieux. The same day they were welcomed by the Rector of the Basilica Mons. Bernard Lagoutte, who brought them to see the relics of Louis and Zélie Martin, recently exhumed in preparation for their forthcoming Beatification. It was a moving and prayerful moment.
They moved on to participate in the General Assembly of the French Delegation in France and met with the two communities (Nantes and Angers), seeing personally the wonderful work being done by the brothers in the cultural, liturgical and pastoral fields. During this visit the Prior General received the Simple Profession of our novice, Brother Martin de la Croix.
Meeting of the General Commission and Secretariat for the Laity,Rome, 1-4 September 2008
The first meeting of the new General Commission and Secretariat for the Laity took place under the presidency of the General Delegate, P. Josef Jancár, from the 1st to the 4th September 2008. The Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral welcomed the participants as guests of the General Curia, which is at the "centre of life of the Order". In his presentation he underlined some of the tasks of the Commission in the coming six years, for example in the fields of formation and communication, and also the deepening of the awareness of the laity regarding their identity as members of the Carmelite Family.
The Commission examined the Global Plan of the General Council for the laity for the coming six years, and Fr. Josef Jancár informed the members of the Commission and the Secretariat of their main responsibilities.
During the meeting various topics were addressed, among these were the planning of the International Congress of Carmelite laity, to take place in 2012, and a meeting of the Provincial Delegates for the laity. The meeting went on to discuss the apostolate and formation, which has been chosen as the theme of the congress. Other points addressed were: communications – either at national level between individual groups or at international level by means of the bulletin "Isidoro Bakanja"; the drawing up of a handbook for formation, that might serve all the communities but especially in those countries where one does not exist; the updating of the Directory of Carmelite Laity with a classification of the lay movements which do not form part of the Third Order. Much attention was also given to the topic of the financing of the permanent Secretariat for the Laity.
The next meeting of the General Commission and the Secretariat will take place in November 2009, in order to continue the preparation for the meeting of the Provincial Delegates and the preparation of the universal handbook for formation, and to plan the international congress of the laity.
First meeting of the International Commission for Justice and Peace, and Integrity of Creation of the Order
The first meeting of the JPIC commission was held in Sassone, Italy, from September 1-5, 2008. All members of the commission (Cees Bartels (Ner), David Scott Blanchard (PCM), Eduardo Agosta Scarel (Cast), Gilbert Sabado (Phil), Boniface Makau Kimondolo (Cat), Michael Agung Christiputra (Indo), and the General Councillor Albertus Magnus Herwanta) were present. Boby Sebastian (James) Tharakunnel of the St. Thomas Province (India), who has been appointed as an executive secretary of the commission, was also present. The Most Rev. Fr. General, Fernando Millan Romeral presided the opening Mass and gave an encouraging message. The commission members shared their experiences in the fields of their ministries. After listening to these the commission arrived at certain conclusions especially the need of JPIC commitment in the Order, and made a detailed presentation about strategic planning. The meeting discussed future plans and formulated an action-plan for the year 2008-2011. This action-plan will be presented at the plenary meeting in the General Council this month. After approved by the General Council, it will be disseminated to the whole Order.
Meeting for Lay Carmelites in Latin America
From August 17 through 24 thirty Carmelite friars, sisters and lay people from different countries of Latin America, gathered in Lurin, Peru, to discuss and develop several projects related to the formation of Lay Carmelites in the region.
Present at these meetings were the Prior General, Fernando Millán Romeral, O. Carm., and the Councillor for the Americas, Raúl Maraví, O. Carm. Father Fernando´s contributions greatly enriched the work of the group.
During this week many subjects were discussed: the identity of the Lay Carmelites, the locations and makeup of formation programs, the Secretariat and the Commission of the Lay Carmelites. Furthermore, the participants decided to organize a series of congresses for Lay Carmelites over the next few years. The first of these will be a Course of Formation for Formators of Lay Carmelites, which will be held in November 2009 in Recife, Brazil.
New Church and Priory in Almelo, The Netherlands
On Saturday 6 September the Dutch province celebrated the opening of a brand new priory and parish church in Almelo. Led by Prior Provincial, Ben Wolbers, the local community and members of the province blessed the priory building. This was followed later in the day by the consecration of the church by Mons. Willem Eijk, archbishop of Utrecht. The parish is dedicated to the Prophet Elisha and was created out of three former parishes in the town of Almelo. For more details and a photo album of the day, see www.elisapaz.nl
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Jesi, Italy
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Jesi, Italy, was held 3 September 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Maria Chiara Sabbatini, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Maria Rosanna Piras, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Maria Paola Colletta, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Maria Paola Colletta, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Alma Maria J. Sponziello, O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Maria Rosanna Piras, O.Carm.
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Osuna, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Osuna, Spain, was held 13 September 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Maria del Amor Gómez, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Maria de San José Luque Moreno, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Bernardita Vioque Ramos, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Maria Victoria Escamilla Martín, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Bernardita Vioque Ramos, O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Maria del Rosario León Gómez, O.Carm.
General Chapter of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm
The General Chapter of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm was held 6-17 September 2008 at Germantown, NY, USA. The following were elected:
Superior General: Mother M. Mark Louis Anne Randell, O. Carm.
Viçar General and 1st Councilor: Sr. Ann Elizabeth Brown , O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Anthony de Lourdes Veilleux, O. Carm.
3nd Councilor: Sr. M. Michelle Anne Reho, O.Carm.
4nd Councilor: Sr. Patricia Margaret Rawdon, O.Carm.
Secretary General: Sr. Marie Richard Carmel Brusca, O.Carm.
Treasurer General: Sr. M. Veronica Robert Bien, O.Carm.
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Asunción, Huesca, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Asunción, Huesca, Spain, was held 2-3 September 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Mª Carmen Ibarra Lorea, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Mª Inés Nthenya Nzyuko, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Mª Annastacia Kavuu Kiswili, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Mª Concepción Durán Bestué, O. Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. Mª Regina Mumbua Musyoka, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Mª Annastacia Kavuu Kiswili, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Mª Inés Nthenya Nzyuko, O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Mª Benedicta Mutwiwa Nzuve, O.Carm.
Days of retreat and study by the General Council
For the past few days, from 18th to 21st of September, having completed one year since the General Chapter of 2007, the General Council met in Sassone for some days of study, retreat and fraternal sharing. During these days the members of the Council examined together the Instruction: Faciem tuam, Domine, requiram (The service of the authority and obedience) published months ago by the Congregation for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and the Societies of Apostolic Life. They also reflected on the experience of the Council during this past year and looked forward to the next Council of the Provinces.
Developments in Lithuania
With the blessing of Cardinal Audrys J. Backis, archbishop of Vilnius, Elena Stulgiené, Danuté Kasubiené and Violeta Cecilija Tumasioniené made their simple profession within the Third Order of Carmel. The profession took place in the All Saints Church, the former Carmelite church in Vilnius. Mgr. Juozas Tunaitis, auxiliary-bishop of the archdiocese Vilnius was presiding in the Eucharist. The profession rite itself was led by Tjeu Timmermans O.Carm., coordinator of the Dutch Province for the Lithuania project. Míceál O’Neill O.Carm. (Hib), Felix Schandl O.Carm. (GerS) and Johan Hettinga O.Carm. (Ner) were also present at this profession ceremony. They were involved in the building up of a Carmel in Lithuania from the beginning.
In August Edvinas Reinys from Lithuania visited the house of formation of the Dutch Province in Boxmeer for some weeks. Edvinas is seriously considering entering the Order after finishing his studies as a teacher of religion. In October Roma Steckyté and Vida Jocyté will be accepted as candidates for the Third Order of Carmel. After their acceptance they will start a process of intensive formation.
Inauguration of the Carmelite Institute Malta
On Saturday, 4th October 2008, at 10.00 a.m., the Carmelite Church at Mdina, Malta, will be the venue of the inauguration of the CARMELITE INSTITUTE MALTA. The Prior General Fr Fernando Millán Romeral O.Carm. will be present for this occasion. The inauguration programme includes two lectures, one by Kees Waaijman O.Carm. (Ner) on “Carmel: An Empty Space for God”, and another by Eugene McCaffrey OCD on “Carmel: A Lover’s Quest”.
The Carmelite Institute Malta is a collaborative effort of the Maltese Carmelite Province and of the Maltese Province of Discalced Carmelites to promote in Malta the study of Carmelite spirituality and tradition. Its main goal is to offer courses in Carmelite spirituality and Mariology on various levels. In fact, starting October of this year, the Institute will be cooperating with the Faculty of Theology of the University of Malta to offer an MA programme in Spirituality. Students enrolled in this programme may opt to specialize in Carmelite Spirituality. As from next year, the Institute will also offer a non-academic programme in Carmelite Spirituality. The Carmelite Institute Malta has its seat at the Carmelite Priory, Mdina.
Fr Giovanni Grosso O.Carm., Preside of the Institutum Carmelitanum, is accompanying the Prior General on this visit, which is Fr Fernando’s first visit to Malta. The Prior General will also celebrate the Eucharist at the national shrine of Our Lady of Mt Carmel in Valletta, meet with young people from various Carmelite parishes and preside over the annual general meeting of the Third Order.
Published in
CITOC Archive
71/2008-07-08
New Publication of “Edizioni Carmelitane”
New Publication of “Edizioni Carmelitane”
The Carmelite Rule (1207-2007). Proceedings of the Lisieux Conference, Edizioni Carmelitane, Roma 2008. ISBN 978-88-7288-102-6. ISSN: 0394-7793. 40 Euro.
The Rule of Carmel continues today to inspire thousands of men and women around the world and throughout the Church in their lives of allegiance to Jesus Christ even has it has inspired Carmelites over the centuries. This collection of papers by some of the best scholars in the Carmelite family is a landmark in our developing appreciation for this sacred text. The work of these men and women clearly demonstrates that the wisdom of Saint Albert of Jerusalem continues to speak in new times and new places of which those first hermits could never have dreamed. The Rule of Saint Albert is now ready to propel us into a future marked by all the glorious sanctity of our past eight centuries. (P. Patrick Thomas McMahon O.Carm.)
72/2008-11-08
Reopening of “Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús” Seminary, San Juan de Puerto Rico (Arag)
Reopening of “Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús” Seminary, San Juan de Puerto Rico (Arag)
It is with pleasure that we would like to communicate a small sign of hope for the future life of the Order. On Sunday 3rd August last, with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Jorge Ma. Rivera, O.Carm., the Carmelite Seminary of “Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús” belonging to Commissariate of Antilles of the Arago-Valentina Province, was reopened.
The seminary is located in the house of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The entry of four young men from the town of Ciales, Puerto Rico, has made this reopening possible after having been closed for a long time.
Activities of the Prior General in Brazil
From 2nd to 9th August last, Fr. Fernando Millán Romerál, O.Carm. participated in many different events in Brazil. In Curitiba he met those in formation (seminarians, postulants, novices and students) to whom he outlined the different projects of the Order for the coming six years. He then had a very fraternal meeting in that city with our Discalced brethren and with the Carmelite laity. He also visited the “Casas do Servo Sofredor” (for men and women) where the Carmelites of the Commissariate of Paraná (GerS) are engaged in great work with drug addicts.
From there, Father General moved on to the inter-provincial novitiate of “São Cristovão” (Sergipe) where he gave a course to the novices on the life and thought of Blessed Titus Brandsma. There are 15 novices belonging to the provinces of Pernambuco, San Elías (Rio de Janeiro), Italy (Colombia) and Malta (Bolivia). Fr. Fernando also visited various communities nearby and presided at a solemn celebration of the Eucharist with the members of the Carmelite Family of “São Cristovão”.
A year dedicated to Isidore Bakanja
On 12th August we celebrated the Memorial of Blessed Isidore Bakanja, born between 1880 and 1890 in Mbilankamba in the Congo (Zaire). He was baptized on the 6th May 1906 and received the scapular as a sign of his dignity as God’s child, together with the rosary a sign of his continuous prayer. He began to work for a Belgian colonial company and was whipped by his atheistic manager who ordered him to remove his scapular. Isidore died some days later, either on the 8th or 15th of August 1909, pardoning his tormentor.
The Catholic laity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo have decided to dedicate a whole year to the memory of Isidore Bakanja. The year will run from August 2008 to August 2009 and will serve as an "awakening of the laity" according to Don Ambroise Mutshembe, secretary of the Episcopal Commission for the Apostolate of the Laity. For canonization a miracle through Blessed Isidore’s intercession is necessary, but above all it is important to make known the witness of this young apostle and martyr, who took seriously his Baptismal vocation.
First Electoral Chapter of the Monastery N.S. de America y San José, Monción, Dominican Republic
The first Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery N.S. de America y San José, Monción, Dominican Republic, was held 28 of June 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Maria Consuelo Rivera, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Maria Josefina Luna, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Maria Assunta Mura, O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Maria Josefina Luna, O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Maria Rosanna Serrata, O.Carm.
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
10-08-08: P. Miguel Mindeguía Aríztegui, Arag
14-08-08: P. Morris Wells, PCM
General Chapter of the Corpus Christi Carmelites
The Congregation of Corpus Christi Carmelite Sisters held elections for Prioress General and Council today at St. Paul's Spirituality Center in Georgetown, Guyana, South America. Here are the results:
Mother General: Sr. Petronilla Joseph, O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Katrina Charles, O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Helena Profeiro, O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Janice Romero, O.Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. Antoinette Fahey, O.Carm.
First Councilor is also Assistant General.
58/2008-03-07
Promulgation of the Decree of the Congregation for Causes of Saints concerning Blessed Nuno
Promulgation of the Decree of the Congregation for Causes of Saints concerning Blessed Nuno
This morning, 3rd July 2008, the Holy Father, Benedict XVI, received in a private audience Cardinal José Saraiva Martins, Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. During the course of the audience the Holy Father authorized the Congregation to promulgate the Decree concerning the heroic virtues and the miracle attributed to the intercession of Blessed Nuno of Saint Mary Álvares Pereira (1360-1431), Portuguese national and Professed Layman of our Order.
The Holy See will set the date for the Canonization.
59/2008-08-07
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
02-07-08: Fr. Benedict Reney, Brit
03-07-08: P. Nuno Alves Correia, Flum
03-07-08: P. Nuno Alves Correia, Flum
First Meeting of the International Commission for Carmelite Schools and Youth
From 26 to 29 June 2008, the new International Commission for Carmelite Schools and Youth held its first meeting in the General Curia house in Rome. Together with the Councillor General Fr. Raúl Maraví, there were representatives from Europe, North and South America and Oceania.
The Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, and the Vice Prior General, Fr. Christian Körner, greeted the members of the Commission. During the meeting various aspects of Carmelite education were discussed, as were the presence of Carmelite laity and the new challenges that we are facing in our school centres today. After exchanging views on a number of topics, the group discussed the preparations for an International Conference on Carmelite Schools, which had been suggested by the 2007 General Chapter. The meeting will be held from 8 to 14 April 2010 in Dublin, Ireland, to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the Irish province school, Terenure College. It was also decided to send a questionnaire to all Carmelite schools, which will serve as a basis for the participants’ work in the congress.
The Commission will meet again in 2009 to continue preparations for the International Congress and to promote other events linked to it.
XV Meeting of the Iberian Region
From 29 June to 2 July the fifteenth meeting of the Iberian Region was held in Pozuelo del Alarcón (Madrid). One hundred and ten members of the Carmelite Family took part: friars, nuns, sisters and laity from the provinces of Arago-Valentina, Betica, Castilla, Catalonia, the General Commissariat of Portugal and from the Congregations of the Sisters of the Virgin Mary and of the Carmelite Sisters of the Sacred Heart, who prepared the topic of this year’s meeting. The subject was “Silence, mysticism, prophecy in allegiance to Jesus Christ” and conferences were led by Fr. Hugo Canavan O. Carm., member of the General Delegation of Titus Brandsma in Colombia. At the end of the meeting three participants spoke: M. Magdalena Carretero O. Carm. from the monastery of Madrid, secondly, a lay woman, Blanca Frediani and finally, Fr. Augustín Rodríguez Teso, a priest from a suburb on the edge of Madrid.
The superiors of the Iberian Region, male and female, took advantage of the occasion in order to have a meeting of their own, as did the Iberian provincials.
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
05-07-08: P. Conal Collier, Hib
05-07-08: P. Floribert Schwering, GerI
Beatification of the parents of Saint Therese of Lisieux on 19th of October 2008
The parents of Thérèse of Lisieux, Zélie and Louis Martin, will be beatified on 19th of October 2008 at Lisieux. Cardinal José Saraiva Martins announced the news last Saturday when he presided the Eucharist celebration in honour of the 150th anniversary of their wedding at Alençon.
In solemnitate B.V. Mariae de Monte Carmeli
Flos Carmeli, vitis florigera, splendor caeli, Virgo puerpera singularis.
Mater mitis, sed viri nescia, Carmelitis esto propitia, stella maris.
Fernando Prior Generalis et Consilium Generale
16.VII.2008
Five Hundred Years of the Presence of the Carmelite Nuns in Granada, Spain
The celebration of the 500 years of the Presence of the Carmelite Nuns in Granada (Spain) took place on the 16th of July in the Monastery of the Incarnation. Founded in 1508, it is one of the first monasteries established there after Granada was reconquered in 1492. During these 500 years of history, the monastery has gone through many hardships, but many nuns of outstanding spiritual and intellectual level have lived in it, and among them several Blesseds.
To celebrate this occasion, a History of the Monastery written by Fr. Ismael Martínez Carretero, O. Carm., was presented in a solemn act presided by the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O. Carm., who was accompanied by Fr. Rafael Leiva Sánchez, Prior Provincial of the Betica Province. Many people participated in the ceremony. Likewise, the Prior General presided the Eucharist on the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and unveiled a glazed ceramic tile commemorating the 500 years of the presence of the Carmelite nuns in the city of Alhambra.
Br. Pedro Murciano, O. Carm. completes his service in the General Curia and returns to his Province
After almost 25 years of continuous service to the General Curia in Rome, Br. Pedro Murciano, O. Carm. will return to the Arago-Valentina Province in September. Br. Pedro was exemplary in his spirit of service and availability toward the members of the different general councils he worked with in Rome.
The General Council expresses its gratitude to Br. Pedro for his many years of service to the General Curia and wishes him years of fruitful service as he returns to his home province.
Restored Carmelite Library at Straubing, Germany (GerS), Reopens
After two years of hard work, on 6th June 2008, the Straubing community was able to enjoy the fruits of this labour as the library was reopened. The main hall is famous for its dazzling frescoes completed in 1715 and now restored to its former glory. In 1806 the convent had been suppressed, but now the contents of the library will be put back in their rightful place.
In the course of the evening, Prior Fr. Elias Steffen O.Carm. thanked the benefactors and special guests present, the curator Alfons Huber delivered a lecture, published in Straubinger Tagblatt, and Provincial Fr. Dieter Lankes O.Carm. stressed the place of the library as one of formation and study. Greetings were also received from the mayor of Straubing, the local member of parliament in Bavaria and the head of the restoration project. The restoration has cost € 450,000 and will be financed by public institutions and private businesses, as well as fundraising.
The frescos in the library are the work of an unknown artist who was deeply imbued with the tradition of Carmel and of Mary. Eight half-portraits depict scholarly Carmelites, who were devoted to the defence of Faith and to the study of Divine Wisdom, such as Thomas Netter of Walden, Francisco Suarez and John Baconthorpe.
The day after the inauguration, many visitors took the opportunity to see the frescos for themselves and on 9th June the conference between the French and German Defence and Foreign Ministers took place in the library as part of the summit between President Nicolas Sarkozy and Chancellor Angela Merkel.
http://www.karmelitenorden.de/straubing/bibliothek/restaurierung.html
Our Lady of Doncaster
In the middle ages there was a prominent Carmelite Church in the town of Doncaster, England, with a Shrine to Our Lady. Though nothing remains of the original church and friary, there has been a revival of the Shrine of Our Lady of Doncaster in the local Catholic Church. At the Reformation the statue of Our Lady was one of five ‘significant statues’ that were taken to London to be burnt. The Prior of Doncaster was one of the few Carmelites to be executed at that time.
Some of the Carmelite Third Order have been involved in promoting the restoration of the Shrine and the garden outside the shrine is being landscaped with stones from other shrines.
On Friday 27th June at the 12 noon Mass at Aylesford, there was a handing over of one of the medieval stones from the original church to the Guardians of the Doncaster Shrine.
Corpus Christi Carmelite Sisters mark the centenary of their foundation
On 16th July, the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the Corpus Christi Carmelite Sisters marked 100 years of their foundation with a Centenary Mass in the English city of Leicester. It was in Leicester that Mother Mary Ellerker of the Blessed Sacrament formed a community of women devoted to contemplative living through prayer and social outreach. The Congregation was affiliated to the Carmelite Order in 1927 and today has communities in England, the Caribbean, North America and Liberia, many of which were represented at the Eucharist. During the celebrations the sisters made a presentation to the Prior Provincial of the British Province, Fr. Wilfrid McGreal, O.Carm., thanking the friars for their support and formation. The Mass was attended by Sister Antoinette Dickie, O.Carm. (Prioress General of the Congregation), the Lord Mayor of Leicester, many lay Carmelites, and Robert Rivas, O.P., the Archbishop of Castries. The sisters are concluding their centenary celebrations with a tour of places in Britain associated with their founder. The paperwork for her beatification cause will be finalised during the Congregation's General Chapter, to be held in Guyana from 11th to 25th August, which will reflect on the theme "With the Eucharist, centred in Carmel, let us serve the Lord with gladness". A full account of the Centenary Mass can be read online at: http://www.carmelite.org/jnbba/corpusxti.pdf
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
28-06-08: Sr. M. Giuseppina Orrù, Rav
16-07-2008: Fr. Robertus Hanenberg, Neer
Published in
CITOC Archive
43/2008-01-06
Seventy-first biannual Assembly of the USG
Seventy-first biannual Assembly of the USG
From 28 to 30 May, the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral O.Carm., attended the 71st biannual assembly of the Union of General Superiors (USG) in Rome. On the first day, together with the members of the International Union of General Superiors (the female counterpart of UISG), an Instruction entitled Faciem tuam Domine, requiram. The Service of Authority and Obedience was presented. This document was prepared by the Congregation for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and the Societies of Apostolic Life, and introduced by the Prefect, Cardinal Franc Rodé and the Secretary, Archbishop Gianfranco Agostino Gardin. Various general superiors from all over the world gave their impressions of the document, which was also examined in language groups. One of the sessions was moderated by Fr. Fernando and the lectio divina the following day was guided by Fr. Bruno Secondin (Ita). The general impression of the document was positive and given that the subject matter is a difficult topic, this Instruction might be a useful tool for personal and community reflection.
44/2008-02-06
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
13-05-08: Sr. M. Paolina Basta, VET
20-05-08: Sr. Eufrasia Bockting, BOX
20-05-08: P. Bertin Smith, PCM
01-06-08: Fr. Eugene McKenna, Brit
01-06-08: P. Adalbert Deckert, GerS
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Burgos, Philippines
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Burgos, Philippines, was held 19th of May 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Ma. Elena Z. Tolentino O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Ana Maria D. Bernardo O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Ma. Barbara C. Pulido O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Ana Maria D. Bernardo O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Janet Marie D. Espinosa O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Ma. Lourdes I. Siozon O.Carm.
Congratulations from the Spanish Ambassador
The Spanish Ambassador to the Holy See, Don Francisco Vázquez y Vázquez, has sent a friendly letter of congratulations to the Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millan Romeral, for his message to the Carmelite Family entitled Perseverantes in caritate on the subject of the Carmelite martyrs from Catalonia beatified on October 28, 2007. In his letter, the ambassador indicated his complete agreement with the spirit of reconciliation and forgiveness that martyrs exemplify to us, and his hope that this same spirit would be widespread in Spain today.
Carmelite activity during the World Youth Day 2008
The World Youth Day 2008 will be held in Sydney, Australia, from15th to 20th of July 2008. On July 16 (Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feastday), the Australian Carmelites would like to offer an invitation to anyone associated with Carmelite ministries from around the world who is in Sydney at the time, to a gathering at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Wentworthville. There will be an hour of prayer in the spirit of Taizé in the church from 6 pm - 7 pm followed by a BBQ organised by the parish.
It would be helpful if those who are interested in attending could contact the Parish in order for them to get some idea of numbers:
Address: 4 Bennett Street, Wentworthville, Sydney
Tel: (+61 2) 9631 8302
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Parish Priest: Fr Denis Andrew O.Carm.
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Valls, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Valls, Spain, was held in May 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. M. Montserrat Xirinacs Damians O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. M. Mercè Mauri Gallifa O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. M. Agnes Kavesa Mutuku O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. M. Josefina Llaurado Prats O. Carm.
Procurator: Sr. M. Àngela Kithei Mutisya O.Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Maria del Carme Syombua Mbatha O.Carm.
The Institute of Spirituality in Asia (ISA), Philippines, produces its first Ph.D graduate
Sr. Joy Carmel L. Jumawan, Carm. O.L., (Carmelite Sisters of Our Lady) is the Institute of Spirituality in Asia’s first graduate to obtain a Ph.D. in “Organization Development major in Transformative Spirituality” with a specialization in Carmelite Spirituality.
Sr. Joy Carmel L. Jumawan, Carm. O.L. together with three other graduates in Southeast Asia Interdisciplinary Development Institute received their diplomas during graduation exercises held at Manila in April 2008. Fr. Rico Ponce, O. Carm., Ph.D., the Academic Director represented the ISA at the graduation ceremony. A large number of Carmelite Sisters of Our Lady, Carmelite friars and ISA staff also attended this joyful occasion. The guest speaker was Bishop Angel Lagdameo, President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines. In her address, Sr. Joy focused on the marriage between organization development or management and spirituality.
The following day in gratitude to the people who continually support the Institute, and to congratulate Sr. Joy, the ISA organized a Post Graduation Ceremony at the Titus Brandsma Center, New Manila, Quezon City, Philippines. Fr. Gabriel D. Dolotina, O. Carm., delivered the address of welcome which was followed by the presentation of the candidate by Fr. Martin Pierik, O. Carm., Ph. D. After Sr. Joy’s graduation speech, Fr. Rico P. Ponce, O. Carm., Ph. D. confirmed her as the first ISA graduate.
Apart from the research and publication program, there is now a lot of academic activity going on in ISA.
For further information about the Institute see:
http://www.isa.org.ph/index.htm
XXI Meeting of the Carmelite Family of the Province of Betica
The 21st meeting of the Carmelite Family of the Betica Province took place on Saturday, 7 June 2008. Some 427 members of the Family (religious from the province, the local pastor, diocesan priests, religious sisters and lay Carmelites, as well as civil authorities) took part in the assembly which had been organised by Fr. Manuel Jurado Perea O.Carm., the Councilor for Pastoral Activities. This year’s meeting took place in Paradas (Seville) to celebrate the first centenary of the foundation of the Sisters of the Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel in that town. The Carmelite sisters received the title of ‘adopted daughters of the town’ from the local municipality and the naming of a street after them, in view of their simple and humble service to the population in these last 100 years, both in their school and also in their Home for Old People. During the homily in the Mass, the Prior provincial, Fr. Rafael Leiva Sánchez O.Carm., invited the Carmelite laity in the province to follow this example of simplicity and humility. The meeting ended with a festive meal.
Provincial Chapter of the Neapolitan Province
During the Provincial Chapter of the Neapolitan Province, Italy, held on 9-12 June 2008 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Enrico Ronzini O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Paolo Lagioia O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Lorenzo Sansevero O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Giovanni Cimmino O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Domenico Fiore O.Carm.
Vitam coelo reddiderunt (R.I.P.)
02-06-08: P. João Batista Prieto, GerS-Par
03-06-08: Fr. Alban Brügel, GerS
14-06-08: P. Gerard Benson, PCM
03-06-08: Fr. Alban Brügel, GerS
14-06-08: P. Gerard Benson, PCM
Provincial Chapter of the PCM Province
During the Provincial Chapter of the PCM Province, USA, held on 16-20 June 2008 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. John Welch O.Carm.
Eastern Commissary Provincial: Fr. Leo McCarthy O.Carm.
Midwest Commissary Provincial: Fr. David Simpson O.Carm.
Western Commissary Provincial: Fr. William Harry O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Ronald Oakham O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Bernhard Bauerle O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Gregory Houck O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Quinn Conners O.Carm.
Prior Provincial: Fr. John Welch O.Carm.
Eastern Commissary Provincial: Fr. Leo McCarthy O.Carm.
Midwest Commissary Provincial: Fr. David Simpson O.Carm.
Western Commissary Provincial: Fr. William Harry O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Ronald Oakham O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Bernhard Bauerle O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. Gregory Houck O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Quinn Conners O.Carm.
7th annual meeting of the Carmelite Librarians’ Association in Malta
The 7th annual meeting of the Carmelite Librarians’ Association will be held in Malta, from 2nd to 5th July, 2008. It was convened by Fr. Mark Attard O.Carm, (Mel) the Delegate for Studies in the Order, who is also responsible for the Carmelite Librarians’ Association. The principal theme of the meeting, with about 30 participants coming from all over the world, will be Formation and the service of the Association and the Carmelite libraries throughout the world to all levels of Formation. With this in mind, Fr. John Keating O.Carm., Councilor for Europe and responsible for Formation in the Order will be present. Also participating will be Fr. Giovanni Grosso O.Carm., President of the Carmelite Institute, Rome, and the General Bursar Fr. Kevin Alban O.Carm. Apart from the working sessions the participants will have the opportunity to visit some of the more important places in Malta and enjoy the hospitality of the Maltese Carmelites.
Diocesan process for the Beatification of Mother Maria Maddelena Mazzoni finishes its work.
On 7th June 2008, in the chapel of Carmelite Sisters of Grace in Bologna, Cardinal Carlo Caffara concluded the diocesan phase of the process for the Beatification of the Servant of God, Mother Maria Maddalena Mazzoni (1683-1749) foundress of the Carmelites Sisters of Grace. Fr. Giovanni Grosso, O.Carm., Postulator General was also present. Now the process will be introduced in Rome for the Apostolic phase.
The Congregation of the Carmelite Sisters of Grace was the first institute of women to be joined to the Order. The affiliation of the Congregation was granted in 1735 and then renewed in 1900.
First meeting of the new International Formation Commisssion
From the 27th to 29 May 2008, the first meeting of the International Commission for Formation took place at the General Curia in Rome. Present were: John Keating, General Councillor, Mario Alfarano, Secretary, Quinn Conners (PCM), Günter Benker (GerS), Desiderio García Martínez (Arag), Giampiero Molinari (Ita), Dionisius Kosasih (Indo), Vitalis Benza (Hib-Zimb) and Romualdo Borges de Macedo (GerS-Par). Present also was Kevin Alban (Bursar General) for helping with the translation.
The Commission was welcomed by the Prior General, Fernando Millán Romerál and the Vice General, Christian Körner. The members of the commission began their work with a reflection on the key issues facing formation in different parts of the world. It then examined the proposals and recommendations emanating from the General Chapter, the future programmes for initial and on-going formation, the question of vocations to the Order, revision of the RIVC in conformity with CON 129, the necessity of a pre-novitiate programme in the provinces and some specific issues. The commission met with Christian Körner (Communications Commission) regarding formation and the use of the Order’s website, and with Mark Attard (Delegate for Studies) regarding the meeting in Malta of the Carmelite Libraries Association. Three sub-committees were set up – one to prepare future meetings, another to plan for a gathering of those in initial formation on Mount Carmel, and the third to research a methodology for all future formation courses run by the Formation Commission. A special meeting of the new commission will take place in November to deal specifically with this topic.
Appointments made by the Prior General and his Council
Next September, Fr Wilmar Santin (GerS-Par) will complete his first three year term of office as Prior of CISA. At the conclusion of this period of generous service to the community and to the Order, the Commissary Provincial of Paraná, to which Fr Wilmar belongs, has asked that Fr Wilmar be allowed to return to Brazil, where his presence is now necessary.
The Prior General and his Council have appointed Fr. Manuel Bonilla Gutiérrez from the Province of Catalonia as the new Prior of CISA. Fr Manuel has served the Order in the past as Prior Provincial of his province.
The Prior General and his Council have also appointed Fr Albertus Herwanta, Councillor General for Asia, Australia and Oceania to be the liaison between the General Council and the Community of St. Albert and St Thérèse of the Child Jesus of the Latin rite Carmelites in India. Fr Albertus will be the link on the Council to facilitate coordination and direct communications regarding all the various aspects and necessities of the Community.
34/2008-01-05
Annual Meeting of the Prioresses of Italian Monasteries
Annual Meeting of the Prioresses of Italian Monasteries
From 21st to 23rd April at the Institute "Il Carmelo", Sassone, the annual meeting of the prioresses of the Italian monasteries took place. There were 18 prioresses present together with Fr. Claudio Bellotti, O.Carm., Provincial of the Italian Province. The theme of the meeting was: THE BEAUTY OF FACING DIFFERENCE, what are the fears and the obstacles to be overcome in welcoming a diversity of people and generations. Presentations were given by Rev. Alessandro Ravaglioli of the Gregorian University. Present also for some of the meeting were Fr. Josef Jancar, O.Carm., General Delegate for the Nuns and Fr. Christian Körner, O.Carm., Vice Prior General.
35/2008-03-05
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Saint Anna, Seville, Spain
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Saint Anna, Seville, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Seville, Spain, was held 22-23 April 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Maria de Cristo Rey Mora Pérez O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Reinhild Maschke O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Mª Teresa Molina Sánchez O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Mª Isabel Moreno de la Torre O.Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. Milagros Cabrilla Aranda O.Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Reinhild Maschke O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Mª del Dolor Herrera Cuesta O. Carm.
Sacristan: Sr. Mª Isabel Moreno de la Torre O. Carm.
Meeting of the General Councils O.Carm. - OCD
Last Friday, 2nd May, the meeting of the General Council with the Discalced Council, which meets twice a year, took place at our Curia. Following lectio divina together, the meeting itself took place in which various subjects were discussed in an open and fraternal atmosphere. On this occasion, each member of the Council (O.Carm.) presented his plan relating to their geographic area, together with the plan for the area of responsibility entrusted to him, following the six-year plan that has been published and is presently being sent to the communities world-wide. Fr. Luis Aróstegui O.C.D. informed us of the forthcoming activity of his Council and invited Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral, O.Carm. to participate in their next General Chapter which will take place in Fatima in April of next year. Finally, both Councils joined the Curia community for lunch.
These meetings are a wonderful occasion to share experiences and plans, and to create a joyful moment of brotherhood and mutual enrichment.
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of the Encarnación, Zaragoza, Spain
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of the Encarnación, Zaragoza, Spain, was held 2nd of May 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Ma. Pilar Bort Rubert O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Elena Ma. Samper O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Ma. Sagrario Armendariz O. Carm.
3rd Councilor: Sr. Elena Marco O.Carm.
4th Councilor: Sr. Ma. Nieves Garcia O.Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Elena Ma. Samper O. Carm.
Treasurer: Sr. Elena Marco O. Carm.
First Provincial Chapter of the Province of St. Thomas of the Syro-Malabar Rite in India
During the first Provincial Chapter of the Province of St. Thomas, India, held on 4-9 May 2008 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Fr. Mathew Neendoor O.Carm.
First Councilor: Fr. Bosco Njaliath O.Carm.
Second Councilor: Fr. Wilson Varikatt O.Carm.
Third Councilor: Fr. George Myladoor O.Carm.
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Thomas Thalachirayil O.Carm.
Electoral Chapter of the Monastery of Allentown, USA
The Elective Chapter of the Carmelite Monastery of Allentown, USA, was held 9th of May 2008. The following were elected:
Prioress: Sr. Ma. Therese Raubuch O. Carm.
1st Councilor: Sr. Marie Charlette Ott O. Carm.
2nd Councilor: Sr. Joseph Marie Schouten O. Carm.
Director of Novices: Sr. Ma. Gertrude Schrey O. Carm.
Chapter of the Dutch Province
During the Chapter of the Dutch Province held on 21-24 May 2008 were elected:
Prior Provincial: Ben Wolbers O.Carm.
Council: Jan Brouns O.Carm.
Tom Buitendijk O.Carm.
Jos Huls O.Carm.
Tjeu Timmermans O.Carm.
Eef van Vilsteren O.Carm.
Kees Waaijman O.Carm.
Opening of the Silver Jubilee of the Novitiate house in Kartikulam, India
On 14th of May 2008 at Karmel Nikethan, Kartikulam, in the presence of the Councilor for Asia, Australia and Oceania, Fr. Albertus Herwanta O.Carm.and the Prior Provincial of the recently erected Province of St. Thomas in India, Fr. Mathew Neendoor O.Carm., and many other Carmelites, the Prior General Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral O.Carm. received the Simple Profession of seven novices and the Solemn Profession of three Carmelite brothers.
At the end of the celebration, the Prior General opened the Silver Jubilee of this foundation in the Diocese of Mananthavady, India, by the Upper German Province in the year 1983. During the last 25 years the formation process of 84 young Indian Carmelites took place at the Novitiate House Karmel Nikethan.
Blessing of the Foundation Stone of the new priory of the Latin Rite Carmelites in India
Last May 10 a moving ceremony took place in Paravoor, Kerala, India, during which the foundation stone of the new priory of the Latin rite Carmelites was blessed. The Prior General, Fr. Fernando Millán Romeral O.Carm. presided, assisted by the Councillor for Asia-Australia-Oceania, Fr Albertus Herwanta O.Carm., and the Bursar General, Fr Kevin Alban O.Carm. Father Fernando pointed out that the opening of a new Carmelite house meant the creation of a place of meeting, of spirituality, of culture and of humanity. Father Kevin noted that the land has always had a symbolic meaning as the gift of God to his people. Almost all the members of the new community were present, as were some Carmelite sisters from the Institute of Our Lady of Carmel and a few lay people. The celebration was simple, but nonetheless full of meaning for this new reality of Carmel in India.
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