A Message to the Rogationist Confreres and to the Family of the
Transcription
A Message to the Rogationist Confreres and to the Family of the
PHILIPPINE DELEGATION PHILIPPINE DELEGATION Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus #24 Calcutta St. Merville Park, Parañaque City July - September 2008 NEWSLETTER 66th Issue The Conference of the Superiors and Councils of Circumscriptions A Message to the Rogationist Confreres and to the Family of the Rogate Fraternal Life in Community for the Mission “This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35) The annual Conference of the Major Superiors and their Councils took place in the USA Delegation and, in particular, in Guadalajara City, Mexico, land of martyrs, frontier of hope for our Congregation. For the common reflection, verification, and sharing of the fraternal life we were inspired, in an atmosphere of prayer, by the biblical icon of the primitive community of Jerusalem and by the evangelical pericope of the Rogate to read the present history in a changing world. The identity of being Apostles of the Rogate – charism that characterizes our mission as Rogationists in the Church and in the world, other than in the apostolate at the service of God and neighbor in the various geographical areas where we are placed by Providence to live and work – is expressed in the dynamic of fraternal life in community, characteristic of the religious consecration. It is sustained by the Word of God, welcomed in an atmosphere of listening and prayer, enriched by the grace of the sacraments, oriented by the prayer for vocations and by the practice of charity. We are aware that to go to announce the Rogate, as missionaries of the third Millennium and witnesses of charity above all toward the little ones and the poor, demands from us, first of all, to be in the Cenacle in order to live in fraternity, in the company of Mary, Queen and Mother of the Rogate, and to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. To live the fraternal life in community entails fidelity to the Rule of life, sharing of material and spiritual good and the joys and pains of our existence, fidelity to the Rogationist vocation, and perseverance in listening to the teaching of the Church, the breaking of the Eucharistic bread and prayer. Our particular liturgical context – after Pentecost and with the celebration of the mystery of the Most Holy Trinity and of the Body and Blood of Christ close to the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus – allowed us to profoundly live a singular moment of permanent formation. Thus we have been confirmed by the richness of the Word of the Risen Jesus; Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church hope of the world, and by the force and unction of the Spirit, in order to continue to realize the apostolic project of the Congregation, verifying its actualization, in the sharing of the service of authority, in fraternal acceptance and mutual support. We are happy to have as our inheritance from Saint Hannibal Mary Di Francia a particular mode of living united as family, expressed by our history and by our traditions. According to the thought of the Founder, this particular style of life is a great means to sanctify ourselves living together in charity, under a rule, in obedience, in poverty, in chastity. And in this union we find a force that is great, powerful. It is an invincible spiritual force; a true and particular itinerary of sanctification. From this cenacle in the land of Mexico we opened a window to the world which, as a ripe harvest, waits also for us, good workers. Even today Christ walks the roads of the world and sends us also by pairs (cf. Lk 10:1-2) to announce the reign of love and mercy, to proclaim and live the commandment of charity, above all in favor of the poor and the little ones. Once more we became aware of the importance and the preciousness of our charism in a world that is globalized and in continuous evolution. For this we want to continue to go where Jesus Christ, who walks with us, sends us. The Rogate is for us the door through which we enter and read the whole Bible; it allows us to see with renewed eyes and heart the continuing relevance of the proclamation of the Reign of God, the urgency of a new evangelization, and the necessity of good evangelical workers that carry out the compassion of Christ for the needs of the people of God, of the poorest and the little ones. We are sustained by the example of life of those who before us realized their itinerary of Rogationist consecration; they are true touchstones of our Work. Among these we remember in particular Fr. Joseph Marrazzo, for whom the diocesan Inquiry for the confirmation of his heroic virtues has begun, and Fr. Diego Buscio, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of his death celebrated far and wide in the Philippines. In communion with all the confreres scattered in the various Continents we wish to reaffirm: - The centrality of the Word of God in our life and in the life of the individual communities, - The beauty of our Rogationist consecration, founded on the person of Jesus Christ and in his Rogate, characterized by fraternal life in community for the fulfillment of our apostolic mission, - The value of formation in the different stages of life, in order that our witnessing may become a sign of conversion to the Gospel and attraction for vocations. From this place enriched by the blood of numerous martyrs – lay, religious and priests – we Rogationists want to express to the Lord our gratitude for this new and meaningful presence that begins with the inauguration of the Saint Hannibal Formation Center for the vocational animation of the Mexican youth and the professional formation of many poor young people of the area of Tonala. We intend to share our joy with the entire Family of the Rogate, the Sisters of the Daughters of the Divine Zeal, the Rogationist Missionaries, the Rogationist Laity, the lay collaborators, the many friends and benefactors who, in every part of the world, sustain us with their affection and concrete help. May Our Lady of Guadalupe, patron and Queen of Mexico, of the Americas and of the Philippine Islands, whom we have venerated in her famous sanctuary, through the intercession of our saintly Founder, bless the new Mexican frontier of the Rogationist Work and enrich it with copious fruits of vocations and of apostolic and charitable service. Guadalajara 26 May 2008 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Rome, 1 July 2008 Prot. No. 200/08 Object: The Conference of the Superiors of the Circumscriptions and their Councils and the Instruction: The Service of Authority and Obedience: “Faciem tuam, Domine, requiram” of the CVCSVA (11 May 2008). To the Rev. Superiors Of the Rogationist Circumscriptions And to the Rogationist Communities THEIR SEATS Dearest Confreres, While I unite myself to all of you for the Eucharistic Feast of 1 July, day on which we do the solemn memorial for the coming of the Eucharistic Jesus to our Work, I am sending you this letter with which I would like to render you participants of the recent Conference of the Superiors of the Circumscriptions and their Councils and, at the same time, present to you the Instruction: The Service of Authority and Obedience “Faciem tuam, Domine, requiram”, of the Congregation for Consecrated Life published last 11 May. 1. The Conference of the Superiors of the Circumscriptions and their Councils Surely, the message, that Conference of the Superiors of the Circumscriptions and their Councils intended to send to the Communities and to each of you expressing their greetings and sharing, has already reached you. Now, accepting the invitation addressed to me by the same Conference, I would like to share (while waiting for the usual publication of its Acts) what has transpired in the encounter that we have tried to live listening to God, in dialogue, in fraternal sharing, with the desire to confront our journey with the exigencies of consecration and attention to present circumstances. In line with the choice of doing the annual Conference in different Circumscriptions, to closely know the situations, share, and, somehow, assume the reality of the Congregation in its various resources and problems, we found ourselves in the Delegation of USA. We spent the first days with the Confreres of the two Communities of California, Van Nuys and Sanger, acquainting ourselves with their life and apostolate. Then, we went to Guadalajara (Mexico), where we have recently opened a new seat. The works were made at the Center of Spirituality of Quinta San Jose of the Hermanas Pobres Servidoras del Sagrado Corazon with the participation of the almost complete Governments of the Circumscriptions. For some difficulties, the Delegation of Africa was absent. As it is known, this annual appointment for the Superiors of the Circumscriptions and their Councils is an initiative for permanent formation regarding themes of general interest and specific reference to the service of government, and constitutes, at the same time, a periodic moment of verification, reciprocal listening and dialogue. Remaining within the perspective of “mission”, theme entrusted to us by the 10th General Chapter, we willed to deepen this year the role of the community as place and subject of the mission and the connected dynamics of fraternal life. At the same time, in communion with the ecclesial journey, which PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL in the next Synod of Bishops is concentrated on the Word of God in the life and mission of the Church, we have intended to recall and evidence the centrality of the Word for a community in mission. Around these themes, introduced by Fr. Francisco Cervantes SDB, professor of the Sacred Scriptures at the Salesian Theological School in Guadalajara, we discussed the different reports of the Superiors of the Circumscriptions regarding their respective realities and the reflections of all the participants. According to the usual program, the sharing and the verification in the assembly, as well as the meeting with each single Circumscription with the General Government and the General Commissions, went beyond these principal themes, and have touched problems of common interest and of sectors of reference, in particular, connected to the programming of the General Government. Then, the Conference, during its concluding days, has lived two significant experiences. The first was the inauguration of the new seat in Guadalajara. After the Eucharistic concelebration and the blessing of the House, in an evening of fraternity enriched by a group of benefactors and friends, we had the possibility to see the promising start of the new reality that places itself in the perspective of vocation promotion and formation, but, at the same time, it will also be dedicated to the commitment of charity, specially towards the children and the poor of the territory. During the closure of the meeting, we went in pilgrimage to the City of Mexico, at the sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe, to invoke Mary: Star of the first and new evangelization, of her maternal protection for us and the entire Congregation. Dearest Confreres, in the reflection that the 10th General Chapter has called us to complete during these six years, re-launching our mission in the actual context, Fraternal life in community for the mission and the centrality of the Word of God, which have also been topics of our Conference, surely constitute two central themes. The same document of the Chapter, Apostles of the Rogate, affirms that the renewal that we are proposing cannot simply be about the operative and spiritual aspects of our mission without drawing from the dimension of fraternal life in community. The latter being constitutive of our form of consecrated life (no. 20). The apostolic activity of the communities must be the result of a shared feeling and communitarian project that manifest convergence of intent and definitive expression of fraternal communion. Thus, we need – the document underlines – to construct authentic fraternal life where the spirit of the family lives through acceptance and reciprocal trust, joyful and intense sense of humanity, equilibrium between the moments of common life and apostolic activities in order to overcome individualism and exasperated activism. Further, the profound motivations to live together simple and austere life were underlined (no. 21). A determining role in discerning and regulating communitarian and apostolic exigencies is properly the service of authority of the Superior of the community who is called to be point of agreement of the apostolic dynamism of the community (no. 22). Intimately connected to this theme of fraternal life, or better, its presupposition and foundation, is the second theme that we have treated: the centrality of the Word in the life of the community. We can certainly apply to our communities and Congregation what the Instrumentum Laboris of the Synod said of the Church: the Church in its being mystery of the Body of Christ finds in the Word the proclamation of her identity, the grace of conversion, the mandate of her mission, the source of her prophecy and the reason of her hope (12). Even us, convoked to our communities by the Word of God, in particular, by the Word of the Rogate, we are identified, renewed and sent to announce the same Word according to the teachings and examples given to us by our holy Founder. PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL From the sharing we had, a thought has emerged that in the Congregation, in harmony with the ecclesial journey, a theoretical level of conviction exists regarding the importance of Word of God in the spiritual and apostolic itinerary of the communities and the desire that this could happen, even though, at times, the praxis for a true conversion to the Word is still difficult. We have before us the example of the Founder, who had assiduously read and loved the Word, and we find the affirmation of its importance, with an always greater space and conviction, in the documents of the General Chapters. They highlight the powers and new courses which the Word of God can offer to renew the spirituality and charismatic mission of the Rogate of Christ. The rapport between the Rogationist community and the Word of God are also useful themes that should always to be developed in our praxis (cfr. For example: DD [1968], nos. 157-158 and CSL [1998] nos. 46-47; etc.) During the Conference with the Superiors of the Circumscriptions, who in these months have completed or are completing their visits to the Communities, we have shared an interpretation of the situation regarding these two themes, individuating their lights and shadows, program and initiated itineraries, commitments and initiatives of the communities and confreres, but also the difficulties and mistakes. Regarding the “crack” in our experience of community and rapport with the Word of God, the reflection that came out wanted to be an appeal to promote a renewed attention to these central aspects of our journey as consecrated persons. For such reason, I deemed it opportune to gather and re-launch the suggestions that emerged. There is nothing new, instead they are orientations and re-proposals which are already amply present in our project of initial and permanent formation and supposed to be warmly recalled and inserted in the programs of community life. For this, accepting the invitation of the members of the Conference, and with the opinion of the General Council, I am entrusting them to you, superiors of the Circumscriptions and the local communities, trustful that they will be accepted in harmony with the itinerary of permanent formation being done in your places and that they could constitute a useful contribution for the personal and communitarian growth. (cfr. Attached Orientation) 2. The Instruction: The Service of Authority and Obedience: “Faciem tuam, Domine, requiram”. Then, I would like to recall your attention to the Instruction that the Congregation for the Institute of Consecrated life and Societies of Apostolic life has recently published: The Service of Authority and Obedience: “Faciem tuam, Domine, requiram”. The document, which places itself in continuity with the Fraternal Life in Communion (1994), Vita Consecrata (1996) and the Starting Afresh in Christ (2002), tackles one of the nodes of religious life: obedience/authority. In our present context, this requires to be addressed also with reference to the new cultural situations and the related problems coming out of religious life. In its introduction, the document notes that the way to feel and live authority and obedience has changed both in the Church and the society. This is due, above all, to the verified changes in the same concept of the person who is projected in the realization of itself and in its “being in relation”; in the centrality of the spirituality of communication; in the different and less individualistic manner of conceiving the mission and sharing with all the members of the people of God, with the consequent forms of concrete collaboration (no. 3). The principal intent of the Instruction is that of re-affirming that obedience and authority, even though practiced in different ways, have always peculiar relation to the Lord Jesus, the obedient PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Servant. Further, its proposes to help authority in its threefold service: to the persons who are called to live their consecration (first part); to constitute fraternal communities (second part); to participate in the common mission (third part) (no. 3). I am recommending to the each of you and the communities, the reading and study of this authoritative Instruction which is addressed to all religious. I am limiting myself to highlight some themes that I deemed relevant together with the presentation that has been proposed in the latest Assembly of the Union of Superior Generals. a. The search for the will of God The Instruction reiterates that, at the root of obedience and authority, a traditional element, but always actual, is present as filigree in all the document: the search for the will of God (Faciem tuam Domine, requiram). The document stresses that such search for God and his will constitutes the fatigue of everyday and which the consecrated person gives witness to (…) his commitment, both joyful and tedious, of assiduously finding the divine will, and for this, he chooses to use every available means that will help him know it and will sustain him in its completion (no. 1). This basic perspective frees the Instruction from its possible limited reading: that is, the simple reminder of the disciplinary and juridical type. One of its principal finalities is basically that of reminding, both in the practice of authority and observance of obedience, that the search for the will of God and its faithful completion should constitute, like for Jesus, one’s daily food (Jn. 4,34). The Instruction thus evidences that the most true function of authority in not simply to “govern” but to promote and help the obedience of all to the will of God: While all in the community are called to look for that which will please God and to obey Him, some are called to exercise (…) the particular duty to be a sign of unity and guidance in the common search and personal and communitarian completion of authority (no. 1). b. To the following of Christ Authority / obedience as presented in the document has a strong Christological connotation. Christ obedient is the model of reference: the will of the Father is the food that sustains Jesus in his work (cf. Jn. 4,34). He (…) made himself <<obedient unto death, death on the cross>> (Phil. 2,8). (...) Only the Son, who feels loved by the Father and loves back with all of himself, could reach this type of radical obedience. To him goes our obedience: He is at the center of the religious community as He who serves (cf. Lk. 22,27), but also as He to whom faith is confessed (Jn. 14,1) and proper obedience is given (no. 8). He is, at the same time, the model of a superior who finds inspiration to the attitudes of Jesus servant who washes the feet of his apostles so that they may have part in his life of love (cf Jn. 13, 1-17) (no. 12). Finally, in the intent of doing the will of God, authority and obedience are not distinct realities but two dimensions of one same evangelical reality. Authority and obedience find themselves personified in Jesus: for this, they should be understood in direct relation with Him and in real configuration to Him. Consecrated life simply intends to live His Authority and His Obedience (no. 12). c. the Word of God In correspondence with the theme of centrality of the Word of God which has been the object of reflection in the Conference, I would like to highlight the stress that can be found in the document. PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL The fundamental obedience proper of the Christian is the obedience to the Word of God, indicated as daily obligatory food of every consecrated person. The loving daily encounter with the Word of God educates to discover the ways of life and the modalities by which God wants to liberate his children; it nourishes the spiritual instinct for the things that are pleasing to God; it transmit the meaning and desires of his will; it gives peace and the joy to remain faithful to him, rendering one to be sensible and prepared to all the expressions of obedience: to the Gospel (Rm. 10,16; 2 Thess. 1, 8) to the faith (Rm. 1,5; 16,26), to the truth (Gal. 5,7; 1 Pt. 1,22) (no. 7) Other points note the importance of attaining from the Word the indications and energies needed to adhere to God’s will. Several times, it reminds that the superior should assure the spaces to listen to the Word. Among others, it affirms that authority should personally have prayerful and daily familiarity with the Word of God (no. 13a) and is called to be vigilant so that, starting with himself, the daily contact with the Word of God that has the “power to edify” (Acts 20, 32) the persons and the community and to indicate the ways of mission will not disappear (no. 13b) D. the Superior The document developed its larger part on figure of the Superior and his duty of authority. I will only underline some particular points. - Above all, citing Fraternal Life in Communion no. 50, it highlights that in consecrated life, authority is first of all a spiritual authority (no. 13a). The entire document reiterates this function (to assure the prayer and other necessary spaces for spiritual life, but also all those that constitute fraternal life in communion; encourage in difficult moments; to hold alive love for the church and to the charism; to guarantee permanent formation; to listen and dialogue, etc.) that we find amply present, as sensitivity, also in other documents for our congregation (cf. for example CSL [1998], 73; Constitutions 252). - With particular insistence, the Instruction reminds that the superior should be the first one to do what he is asking from others (nos. 11; 12; 13a; 13b; 13e; 14; 17) expressing for this, a strong request of example. - Further, authority is also being asked to do a precious balancing function, thus helping the community not to cede to contradicting excesses: the respect for the right autonomy of every confrere, but also the coordination and the capacity to invite all to collaborate (no. 25a); he anchors harmony between community and mission, internal and external life (no. 25b); mercy and pardon towards the brother who committed a mistake, but also sense of justice, when the error hurts others (cf. 25d; 25e). An indication that expresses well this function of authority is his commitment to render known that the ideal is not that of having a community without conflicts , but a community that accepts to face its tensions to solve them positively, looking for solutions that will never ignore the values which are its points of reference (no. 25b) - Finally, some possible risks for the superior are noted: the renouncement to do his duty and fidelity to office, making himself escape from situations where he needs to make clear and sometimes, unpleasant decisions (no. 20f); the danger to become manager of the routine, resigned to mediocrity, inhibited to intervene, lacking the courage to indicate the goals of consecrated life and running the risk to lose the original love and desire to witness it (no. 28); the ceding of authority by someone having determinate competence, thus causing the dangerous fragmentation of “ powers” and reduction of proper roles. PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL E. the religious and the community Right from the beginning, the document expresses great attention to the value of the dignity of the human person (no.2) and, outlining the priorities of the service of authority, it reminds that authority is called to promote the dignity of the person, giving attention to each single member of community and his journey of growth, giving to everyone his esteem and positive consideration, nourishing sincere affection to all, taking care of the received confidences with utmost reservation (no. 13b). He should be reminded that there are cases in which obedience means sacrifice and could require arduous process of renouncing from one’s own project. The document recalls the experience of Jesus, reminding that He <<learned obedience from the things that he suffered>> (Heb. 5, 8). It is in the pronouncement of these difficult “yesses” that one thoroughly learns the meaning of obedience as supreme act of freedom, expressed in total and trustful abandonment of one’s self to Christ, the liberatingly obedient Son of the Father (no.26). Overcoming an idea of obedience almost understood exclusively as rapport between superior and religious, the document tends to collocate this relation inside the community, common place for searching the will of God and of common obedience. This is dealt in the second part of the instruction. We can say that its various solicitations proposed to the superior have the goal of rendering the community as true place of consecration-fraternity-mission, and that the themes that demand the good functioning of the community become a help in creating a place to do the will of God. To this regard, the paragraph entitled “For a spirituality of communion and communitarian sanctity” particular appears important (no. 19). The community should not simply accept as “guest” individual sanctity, it should mould and nourish it, making itself a place of sanctity. F. Communitarian discernment Among the modalities through which authority promotes growth of fraternal life, there is communitarian discernment considered as among the highest moments of consecrated fraternity. Noticing that the spirit of discernment should characterized every decisional process that involves the community, the document dedicates for it a paragraph where useful and practical indications are proposed for its actuation, making it correspond to the logic of the Gospel (no. 25e, f) We need to recognize that, in the practice of discernment, the rapport between community and authority appears delicate. The document affirms: Communitarian discernment does not substitute the nature and function of authority, from which final decision is expected; nevertheless, the authority cannot ignore that the community is the privileged place to recognize and accept the will of God (no. 20e) G. Authority/ obedience and the mission Finally, I want to highlight, also in consideration of the priority theme of these six years, the rapport between authority/ obedience and mission which is the object of the third part of the Instruction. From an evangelical conception, mission and obedience reciprocally belong to each other. In no. 23, we read: … it is impossible to think of mission if not in relation to the obedience. Living the mission always implies being sent, and his requires the reference both to the one who sends and to the content of the mission to be done. For this, without reference to obedience, the same term mission becomes difficult to understand and exposes itself to the risk of being reduced to something that only makes reference to one’s self. There is always the danger to reduce mission to a profession to do something PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL in view of one’s own realization and, therefore, to be more or less managed by one’s self (no. 23). From these introductions, the necessary role of authority is delineated with respect to the mission which, faithful to the charism of the institute, should coordinate energies, overcome fragmentations, encourage to assume responsibilities, coordinate the diversity of the spirit of communion, promote the collaboration of the laity, etc. (no. 24). There are still many themes and problems raised by the document that I am entrusting to your reading for an opportune and fruitful reflection. Concluding, I would like to cite some expressions of the Declarations and Promises of Fr. Hannibal related to obedience which, even with language that amply echoes his time, proposes perennial principles and convictions, some of which are close to today’s theological spirit and are also found in the text of the Instruction. Regarding holy Obedience, I declare to recognize that this virtue forms the life and the existence of every religious institute; and like all the natural order subsists because the elements obey the established law of Divine Will, and disobeying from it will lead to their instant destruction; I recognize that without the faithful and perfect obedience a religious house cannot subsists because it will lack the natural and supernatural means for its existence I recognize that holy obedience is virtue of perfect sanctification and of perfect union with God, because obeying the superior and the rules one perfectly makes the will of the Most High God. I recognize that humble obedience is perfect imitation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who always did the will of his Father, who made himself obedient unto his death on the cross, and that the obedient soul along this road, transform itself in Jesus Christ (Antologia Rogazionista, pp. 442- 443). Dearest, I have presented to you a series of reflections and exhortations, getting them from our Conference and the Magisterium of the Church, trusting that during the communitarian encounters, you could make attentive use of them. The circumstances on which this letter is being sent, the 1st of July, commemoration of the first coming of the Most Blessed Sacrament in the Pious Work, is the most appropriate moment in order to give a more profound meaning to what we have said. Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, in fact, as our holy Founder taught us, is the center of our fraternal life in community, he is the Word of the Father who nourishes and sustains, he is the truth of our consecration and the goal of our mission. While asking for the blessing and accompaniment from the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary, I greet each of you cordially. Fr. Fortunato Siciliano, RCJ Secretary General PD News July - September 2008 Fr. Giorgio Nalin, RCJ Superior General Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Attachment Conference of the Superiors of the Circumscriptions and their Councils Guadalajara, Mexico 15- 27 May 2008 Orientations Fraternal Life in Communion for the Mission of the Institute They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds* to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home* and ate their food with glad and generous* hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the temple. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved. (Acts 2, 42-48) We, sons of Fr. Hannibal, depositaries and custodians of the “precious pearl”, the Word of the Rogate, are called today to incarnate, in the church and history, the same sentiments which were of Christ. Following him, who chose to live with his disciples (cfr. Mk 3,14) and who sent them two by two (cfr. Lk 10,1). In prayerful listening to his Word, we believe in the importance of fraternal life in community, as the specific place of expression of our consecration, witnessing of ecclesial communion and commitment for the mission. Franternal Life Fraternal life in community that intends to mirror the profundity and richness of the Trinitarian mystery of love and configures itself on the model of Christ and the apostles (cfr. VC 41), characterizes itself, according to Fr. Hannibal, for its spirit of family (cfr. ADR 20), mutual esteem, sharing of each one’s gift, the participation to the different moments of expression: prayer, mission, work, food for the poor, encounter, feasts, relaxation, etc. It is not a fruit of simple human effort but gift of the Spirit who should be constantly invoked; it is a reality in continuous and patient formation that requires the commitment and availability of everyone. Aware, according to the teaching of Fr. Founder (cfr. Declarations and Promises, VII), of the decisive relevance of fraternal life in community for the life of the Institute, we commit ourselves again to re-affirm our personal and communitarian availability for the construction, in a way that flavors a more genuine spirit of family that will evangelically qualify our inter-personal relation, mutual acceptance and trust. To work our rapport in fraternity will be a renewed sign of the presence of God in our life, it will give credibility to our witnessing and strength to our mission. Practical Suggestions 1) To annually write the “Project of Community Life” (cfr. PFPR, p. 89 and ff.) for the programming of the life and apostolate of the Community in harmony with the journey of the Congregation and of the Church, establishing periodic moments for verification and revision. 10 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL 2) To assure, according to our normative, the correct functioning of the organisms of communion and programming: councils of the family, of the house and of formation, as effective instruments of communication and co-responsibility. 3) To value the role of the Superiors in terms of service and animation of the community, assuring them of a good prior and continuous preparation. 4) To take particular attention of fraternal life for the mission during the initial formation, by promoting the sense of belonging, reciprocal acceptance, co-responsibility, as fundamental elements of formation and even for the correct vocational discernment of the candidates. 5) To qualify the common prayer, above all, the liturgical one, considering and making it the center, heart and nourishment of fraternal life and the mission. 6) To promote constant reference to the rule which is the guarantee for the correct structuring of common life, favoring brotherhood and sustaining the apostolate. 7) To safeguard, in the field of economic administration, the shared and controlled use of the goods, as required by the normative. This favors communion and helps to overcome possible egoistic attitudes, situations of discrimination and uncontrolled centers of powers. 8) Ordinarily, let the community have a consistently sufficient number of persons (at least 3 religious) for a sense fraternal life and a not excessive apostolic duty. In places where this is not possible, we seriously need to consider the possibility of closure. 9) To favor in the houses, environment and space destined for familiar activities, distinct from work, that will facilitate sharing of fraternal life among the religious. 10)To promote, especially in multicultural communities, the formation to acceptance, mutual knowledge, esteem, reciprocal respect, aware of the enrichment and witnessing that this experience reveals for the world of today. 11)To value the assemblies of the Circumscriptions, the encounters of sectors and/or other meetings of perpetually professed that could be valid instruments of continuous formation to deal with themes and programs of common interest, to make the confreres co-responsible in the mission of the Institute, in an environment of proficuous dialogue and meeting with the Superiors. Centrality of the Word of God The Word of God is the “first source of every Christian spirituality” (VC 94). The entire itinerary of conforming to Christ departs from the knowledge of the Scriptures. Its assiduous and frequent reading, accompanied by prayer, makes the Word of God to be transferred to life (cfr. CSL 47). For us Rogationists, born and founded on the word of the Gospel, the Rogate, that contra-distinguish our identity, this truth assumes a particular importance. Fr. Hannibal is for us, teacher and example: In accepting his vocation, discerning the charism and mission of the Institute, he constantly referred to the word of God. The same fraternal life and apostolic activity of each religious and community, take their inspiration, nourishment and force from the Word of God that is read, prayed and lived every day, departing from the intelligence and zeal of the Rogate. The fidelity to the daily encounter with the Word is fidelity to Christ who manifests his love for us every day, who calls and invites us to be apostles of the Rogate; it is the nourishment of consecration, mission and the same Rogationist life. As disciples-missionaries who are trying to live a profound experience of God, the assiduous, constant and prayerful encounter with the Scriptures, can progressively configure us to the compassionate Heart of Christ, Good Shepherd, and PD News July - September 2008 11 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL could render us docile to the movements of the Spirit, while always remaining open to the necessities and needs of the children and the poor. Practical Suggestions In communion with the journey of the Church which celebrates, this year, the Synod of Bishops on the Word of God in the life and mission of the Church and the Pauline Year, in remembrance of the 2000 years of the birth of the Apostle of the gentiles, we would like to invite all the Communities to place the Word of God at the center of their annual spiritual journey. For this, we are offering some indications. 1. To place, even visibly, the Word of God at the center of the communitarian life through signs, like for example, the enthronement of the Scripture, the brief reading of biblical text at the start of every communitarian activity, the communitarian preparation of the homily for Sundays, etc. 2. To concretely assume the Word of God as foundation of communitarian discernment that happens in different levels. 3. To educate ourselves to live, even with appropriate aids, be it personal or communitarian, the threefold rhythm of the Word: the daily (the daily Word), weekly (the Sunday word), the annual (the liturgical year). 4. To propose in some occasions (for example, the monthly recollection), the experience of the lectio divina, to meditate and share the Word. 5. To have the habit of assuming the word proposed by the Liturgy of the Day, as ordinary theme of daily meditation. 6. To propose specific communitarian initiatives for the sharing of the preparation for the Sunday homily (reading and sharing of using prayer aids, exegetical proposal of a confrere etc.) 7. To program the monthly recollections and annual retreats on the Word of God, so that it could influence our life and orientation of daily choices. 8. To give attention to the celebration of the Eucharist, Liturgy of the Hours and other similar prayers, avoiding routine, rush and distraction. 9. To evidence the importance of the Word of God during the moments of communitarian prayer: the Eucharist, Liturgy of the Hours, Eucharistic Adoration (for example, through the proclamation, comment and homily) 10.To favor, above all, in the communities of initial formation, the experience of the study, meditation and sharing of the Word of God. In the particular way, to educate the students in the daily meditation of the Word. 11. For the growth in brotherhood in our communities, it is important to train ourselves to share among us our spiritual experiences and reflections on the Word of God. In this manner, as religious and priests, we can mutually help ourselves to break the bread of the Word to those who ask it from us in order to meet Christ, the living Word and bread of eternal life. 12 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Curia Generalizia dei Rogazionisti Via Tuscolana, 167 00182 ROMA Rome, July 27,2008 Prot. n. 284/08 RE: International meeting of the Rogationist Formators Morlupo, October 21-28, 2008 MM. RR. SUPERIORS of the Rogationist Circumscriptions THEIR SEATS Dearest, I would like to inform you that the announced international meeting of the Rogationist Formators will be held in our Spirituality Center of Morlupo, Rome, from October 21-28, 2008. Like the previous one ( October 24-29, 2005) it is an extraordinary meeting, definitely important for the joint formative journey of the Congregation. I would like to remind that this experience, apart from aiming at a mutual acquaintance in order to grow and form to the fraternity and unity in the diversity of the cultural expressions, wants to support a fruitful sharing of formative experiences , pointing out problems, priorities and meaningful common guidelines for an unanimous and harmonious growth of our charismatic and apostolic presence in the Church and the society. While we intend to continue the verification of the projects of the different stages of formation in the Circumscriptions, in particular some emerging themes will be tackled: the centrality of the Word of God in the formation journey , the means of social communication at the service of the mission, the communication relationship between Formator and Formandee. The relation between formation and vocation promotion will also be considered. Because of these objectives the meeting is structured in moments and different interventions: sharing, information, exchange of experiences, seminars with the presence of experts, meetings by different stages of formation, indications and concrete orientations. The Councilors in charge of the Formation of the different Circumscriptions, the Formators in charge of the different formation stages, eventual confreres in charge with a specific commitment for the permanent formation. I invite you to forward the Formators with this letter which counts as convocation. I am expecting as soon the list of the Religious of the Circumscriptions, who will be attending of the meeting so that the program of the week can be forwarded to them. It is opportune that the direct in charge of formation make a short and precise report descriptive of the present situation of the own formation stage, pointing out problems and perspectives. In preparing the report I would like to invite to consider particularly the final orientations of the previous international meeting of the Formators as well those suggested by the last Conference PD News July - September 2008 13 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL of the Major Superiors and forwarded to the Communities on July 1, 2008, both attached to this letter. To facilitate the preparation of the report I suggest attached some essential points to be duly considered. The arrival of those attending on the meeting is scheduled for Tuesday evening, October 21, 2008 (dinner time). The activities will be starting on he morning of October 22 and will end on October 28, 2008 with the lunch. Nevertheless the Formators are invited to parftecipate on the second seminar of study on The Rogationist Priestly Alliance which will take place in the same venue on October 29, 2008. The Confreres coming from places outside Italy are invited to inform the General Curia about their arrival in a due time. With my best wishes Fr. Giorgio Nalin, R.C.J. Superior General Fr. Antonio Fiorenza, R.C.J. General Councilor Fr. Fortunato Siciliano, R.C.J. Secretary General APPENDIX 1 Essential elements for the preparation of the report about the specific formation stage 1. 2. 3. 4. Seat and formation stage Young persons ( number, age, school, other information) Composition of the formation team (presence of the Spiritual father) Continuity of the formation among the different phases in the Circumscription (eventual initiatives) 5. Centrality of the Word of God 6. Formation and liturgy 7. Knowledge of the Founder and of the charism; introduction to the Rogationist Spirituality 8. Formation to fraternal life in Community 9. Formation to the Apostolate (eventual particular apostolic experiences) 10.To make the mission ad gentes appreciated 14 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Curia Generalizia dei Rogazionisti Via Tuscolana, 167 00182 ROMA Prot. n. 283/08 RE: Preparation of the 11th General Chapter. Most Reverend Superiors of the Priority theme Rogationist Circumscriptions and Rogationist Communities THEIR SEATS Dearest Confreres, While we are going on in the procedure for the preparation of the 11th General Chapter which we have started according to the new indications of the regulations ( cf. N. 175) , I would like to inform you about the priority theme which has been chosen (cf. N. 164). The theme is fruit of the consultation which started already on May 2007 during the Conference of the Superiors and Councils of Circumscription, and then extended , upon the suggestions transpired in that seat, to all the Communities with a letter dated December 4,2007, prot.n. 389/07. About the choice to be done, at first I have consulted the Governments of the Circumscriptions which have pointed out some themes considered appropriate. In the common reflection it came out the orientation, fully shared, to choose a theme connected with the work of revision and updating of the present regulations. Afterwards, keeping in mind these suggestions, I consulted all the Communities presenting some proposals about the particular theme and inviting the Confreres to eventually submit other suggestions. Based on the result of this consultation, during the General Council, we have defined the following particular theme: “The rule of life, guarantee of the charismatic identity, expression of consecration, support to the fraternal communion, project of mission”. The theme, as it can be easily noticed, is linked to those of the last Chapters and connected with the work of revision and updating of the regulations which we are carrying out, and proposes a reflection on the nature of the rule which express the charismatic identity of the Institute, its spirituality and mission. PD News July - September 2008 15 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Then, upon the indications of the Superiors of Circumscriptions, I took the decision to constitute the Commission which will remain in office until the indiction of the same Chapter to study, deepen and draft the lineamenta ( N. 175), to be used for the common reflection on the theme chosen. The Commission is composed of: Fr. Gabriel Flores (President), Fr. Sandro Perrone ( Italian Center-South Province), Fr. Adamo Calo (Italian Center North Province), Fr. Gilson Maia ( Latin American Province), Fr. Danny Montana (Philippine Delegation), Fr. Vinu Velutheppilly (Indian Delegation), Fr. Rene Panlasigui (USA Delegation), Fr. Louis Buhuru (African Delegation). In the meantime, according to the suggestion of the regulations and to facilitate the task of the above mentioned Commission, I have asked an expert in Theology and Canon of the Religious Life to prepare, in its essential elements, a text which may be the starting point for the work. With this contribution, as a preparatory step, the Commission will take care of writing down the lineamenta. The text, which will be elaborated within the month of January 2009, will be forwarded to all the Communities for integrations and observations ( N. 175). With this letter , while I am rightfully informing you of the journey which we are going along for a better preparation of the forthcoming General Chapter, I would like to remind you about the importance to continue to take care in of the meetings in the Communities for the study and examination of the new text of the Norms. Entrusting this work of preparation of the chapter to the Most Holy Virgin, Mother of Good Counsel, through the intercession of our Saint Founder, I greet you all in the Lord. Fr. Giorgio Nalin, R.C.J. Superior General Fr. Fortunato Siciliano, R.C.J. Secretary General 16 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Curia Generalizia dei Rogazionisti Via Tuscolana, 167 00182 Roma Rome. July 30 2008 Prot. n . 233/08 RE: Transfer of office and turn over Most Reverend Superiors of the Rogationist Circumscriptions and the Rogationist Communities THEIR SEATS Dearest Confreres, In the succession of the roles at different levels in our Communities, our regulations provide the accomplishment of the turn over in order to safeguard a regular transfer of responsibility concerning the different tasks and activities. The documentation of the turn over, apart from facilitating the continuity in running the offices which are entrusted, allows to keep for the history the documentation which is important for the life of the Institute. Concerning this matter there was a letter of the Superior General, Fr. Gaetano Ciranni, dated July 24, 1975, Prot. 212/pl, which, reminding what the Norms prescribe, was offering detailed indications. After having verified that in some occasions there was a certain disorientation on the part of Confreres called to carry out this accomplishment, I taught it right to take again the above mentioned letter and update it, defining the indications to remember during the turn over. This also to comply in a certain way with the norm which foresees, at least on the occasion of the turn over of the Office of the Superior of Community, that the accomplishment be by writing following a format prepared by the General Government (norm 282 b). With the favorable opinion of the General Council, I am forwarding attached the above mentioned indications inviting to refer to them on the accomplishment of the turn over. With my best wishes. Fr. Fortunato Siciliano, R.C.J. Secretary General PD News July - September 2008 Fr. Giorgio Nalin, R.C.J. Superior General 17 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL TRANSFER OF OFFICE AND TURN OVER Our Regulations The Norms provide: Art. 281 - “The Superior comes into office on the day of his taking over the office”. Art. 282 - “The take-over of office occurs through the turn over office of the outgoing Superior within one month of the appointment of the new Superior, in the following way: a) the turn over of office is done by the outgoing Superior or by the person assigned by the Major Superior; b) the turn over shall be done in writing on a form prepared by the General Government to be signed by he who turns over the office, he who receives it, and by the House Council or another person indicated by the Major Superior ; c) the turn over includes a part describing the consistency and management of the Works, as well as their administrative part. Art. 283 - “The take-over of the new Superior and the farewell to the outgoing Superior shall be concluded in the church with an apt community celebration. Art. 284 - “The outgoing Superior gives to the new Superior the information useful for the knowledge of the people connected with the House: religious and civil authorities, benefactors, professionals. He introduces the new Superior to all the person necessary for the carrying out of the activities and management of affairs. Art. 324 - “The outgoing Treasurer shall turn over the office to his successor in the presence of the Superior and of the House Council, and sign the respective minutes together with them. Ambits of the turn over The Norms provide explicitly the turn over only for the office of Superior and Treasurer. This does not exclude that for the other offices the procedure could be the same. For a basic principle of good administration, everybody who leaves or passes on an office should make regular turn over to the one pertaining and who takes his place . So also all those in charge of the different managements of the House ( for ex. Secretariat APO), Parish Priests, Rectors of shrines, the Persons responsible of the formation houses (vocation promotion, seminary or similar activities, novitiate, studentate) , those in charge of the socio-educative works (schools, educative institutes and similar activities, charitable works) and 18 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL other apostolic activities ( for ex. Rogate Center, UPV, Associations etc.) in the turnover of their respective sectors should act similarly to the Superior for the all House and the Treasurer for his sector. Procedures Therefore, making explicit the Norms, the one who has to proceed for the transfer of office, he will have a regular turn over through a proper written report, which will be signed by the one turning over the office, the one will be receiving the office and by the House Council. The report will be drawn up in three copies, one for the Archives and one each for who turns over the office and who receives the office. For what concerns the turn over of the Superior of a House a copy of the report will be forwarded to the Superior of Circumscription. The report of turn over will point out, in all or partially according to the office to which refers to, but in an exhaustive way for the same office, the following points, which are grouped by items: A) Persons, B) Things, C) Activities, D) Public relations, E) Economy and anything else which could be matter of turn over A) Persons - List of the Religious of the House - Address and telephone number of the closest relatives of the Religious of the House - Internal organization: a) House Council; b) Family Council; c) Formation Council; Other Councils according to the different Offices ( Parish, administrative etc…) - List of the persons (seminarians, pupils, educators, teachers, collaborators, associated, Alumni, etc) - Employees (assignments, contractual position, address) - Experts (doctors, lawyers, accountants, professionals, skilled workers) B) Things - - - - - General inventory Inventory by sector Documentation concerning the foundation, constitution, juridical recognitions… Documents of ownership, confines…Certificates of the cadastral maps Plan of the buildings with the different nets (electrical, water, sanitary, thermal, telephonic etc.) PD News July - September 2008 19 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL C) Activities specific and collateral) - - - - - Archive and library Collection of the publications of the Congregation and of the House List of the permits, authorizations and rights received History of the House o of the sector Register of the Reports: House Council, Family Council, Formation Council, Parish Council, etc. - Register of H. Masses to be celebrated (with equivalent money deposited) - Registers and archive documentation for every sector of life and apostolate - (Parish) Register of the Baptisms, Confirmations, Marriages, Dead etc. List of the faithful updated, etc. D) Public relations - - - - - - List of the religious and civil authorities List of Corporations or Associations to which we belong Commitments taken: chaplaincies and services etc. Pending suits Negotiations at hand Note of eventual legacy E)Economy - - - - - - - - Registers of bookkeeping updated Cash situation Debts: internal an d external Credits Ledgers of the different officials Bank accounts Contracts and rents Software Easy Census of the House 20 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Curia Generalizia dei Rogazionisti Via Tuscolana, 167 00182 ROMA Rome, September 24, 2008 Prot. n.352/08 RE: Meeting of those in charge of the Rogate Vocational Centers Most Reverend Superiors Rogationist Circumscriptions and Most Reverend Confreres in charge of the Rogate Centers Dearest Confreres, At margin and in continuity with the Convention of studies of the Family of the Rogate: to announce the Gospel in the new era of the communication which will be held in Rome , at Salesianum (via della Pisana, 1111) from December 5-8, 2008, in this commemorative year of the centennial of the magazine God and neighbor (Dio e il prossimo), it was organized a Meeting of those in charge of the Rogate Vocational Centers of the Congregation (venue: General curia from December 9-11, 2008). It follows a previous experience of May 2003 in which, starting from the reciprocal information about the activities present in the different Seats, we dwelt upon the results attained, the future challenges in relation also to the collaboration and coordination among the Centers. This second encounter which stands in continuity with the previous one, intends to resume the reflection , considering also the conclusions of the Convention of studies which will precede it, in order to verify the indications of the General Chapter about the apostolate of the Centers and their organization (Apostles of the Rogate 33) and, at the same time, the role of the International Rogate Vocational Center of Rome ( AOR 34). So on the whole the three days meeting will tackle over the following topics: a) presentation of the present situation of the local Rogate Center (activities, personnel, economical resources, participation in the ecclesial organizations of the pastoral on vocations, promotion and animation of the prayer for vocations – World Day of prayer for Vocations and Union of Prayer for vocations, etc. ) by those in charge of the Rogate Centers b) identity of the Rogate Centers in line with the indications of the General Chapter c) International Vocational Rogate Center of Rome: role and services d) Possibilities and ambits of collaboration and coordination among the Center PD News July - September 2008 21 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL The Confreres in charge of the Rogate Centers ( if it is possible also other members), the Superiors of the Circumscriptions and/or the Councilors assigned to this sector, the members of the CIVR of Rome are invited to participate to the meeting. Appropriately it could be encouraged he participation also of those Religious who in the future mighty be assigned with the task of starting new Vocational Rogate Centers by the Superiors of Circumscription. As soon a detailed program of the meeting will be forwarded to you. Hoping that the encounter may be a meaningful moment for awakening the Vocational Apostolate of the Rogate for the Congregation, waiting to meet you personally, I greet you with affection in the Lord Fr. Giorgio Nalin, R.C.J. Superior General Fr. Gabriel Flores, R.C.J. General Councilor for the Rogate Fr. Fortunato Siciliano R.C.J. Secretary General 22 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL Congregazione dei Rogazionisti Curia Generalizia Via Tuscolana, 167 00182 Roma Rome, September 24, 2008 Prot.n. 348/08 RE: Meeting of the Rogationist Missionaries Most Reverend Superiors Rogationist Circumscriptions THEIR SEATS Dearest Confreres, As I have told you beforehand on the occasion of the last Conference of the Major Superiors in Guadalajara (Mexico) from January 8 to 14, 2009 in the Oasis of Prayer, Silang, Cavite, Philippines, there will be the Meeting of the Rogationist Missionaries. The initiative, which coincides with the centennial of the earthquake of Messina (December 28, 1908) and the following opening in Apulia (Francavilla-Oria 1909) which starts the expansion of the Congregation, takes its place in the context of the reflection on the theme of the mission entrusted to us by the General Chapter. The appointment intends to let meet for a moment of celebration and reflection the Confreres missionaries, who are working out of their country of origin, with the following objectives: to celebrate the richness and the challenges of the Rogationist mission today; to reflect on the needs of its diffusion; to know the situation and the expectations of our missions; to share experiences, projects, and plans; to promote connections and contacts; to support and sustain the missionary promotion; to verify the collaboration and the service of the Central Missionary Office. Considering that it is impossible to assure the presence of all the missionaries, as criterion it is suggested that at least one Religious “foreigner” coming from each of the 18 countries where we are present may attend. You will be the one, in the ambit of the territorial competences, to point out the participants. The invitation to attend on the meeting is also addressed, besides the missionaries chosen, personally to each one of you. The program, which will be forwarded to you as soon, with the times for the reflection and sharing, comprises the mission forum 2009 (which foresees the presentation of the socio-educative PD News July - September 2008 23 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE FATHER GENERAL project for the House of Parang), the meeting with the Communities of Manila and the visit of our works in the metropolis and surroundings (SABV, Seminaries, SHEC, Parishes of Zaragoza and Parang). A commission was put up in loco for the organization of the meeting. In order to make the experience, new in its typology, enriching and fruitful, it is important that the missionaries come to the meeting bringing some contributions: a) brief history of the mission where they work: starts, development, apostolic activities (presentation possibly by power point or video for a duration of five minutes) ; b) report on the personal missionary experience: origin, insertion in the cultural context, problems, values acquired…It will be interesting to refer also to the community experience, to the communications with the respective Circumscriptions and the General Government (Central Missionary Office), the insertion in the local church through the specific apostolate of the Rogate and the help to the poor. Moreover it would be very useful that the participants could bring to the meeting eventual contributions and reflections of Confreres who are having the same missionary experience. For clarifications and in order to communicate the names of those who will be participating on the meeting, please, refer to Fr. Gabriel Flores, General Councilor for the Missions. Confident that this meeting may be an important moment of growth for the participants and a sign of animation for all the Confreres, waiting to meet you, I greet you with affection in the Lord. Fr. Giorgio Nalin, R.C.J. Superior General Fr. Gabriel Flores, R.C.J. General Councilor for the Missions Fr. Fortunato Siciliano, R.C.J. Secretary General 24 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Prot. 96 / 08 Re: Members Committee Project with the Italian Government To: and Manila, July 2, 2008 M.R. Fathers CARMELO CAPIZZI, SABV, Silang, Cavite, Superior HERMAN ABCEDE, SABV, Toril, Davao, Superior ENRIQUE RAVEZA, PD Treasurer, Silang CESARE BETTONI, Novice Master, Silang Mr. ALESSANDRO IELLAMO, Makati Dearest, During the last meeting of the Delegation Council held in Manila on June 21, 2008, we discussed with Fr. Carmelo Capizzi about the implementation of the project approved by the Italian Government through the NGOs Labor Mundi and Vides in favor of St. Anthony’s Boys Village, Silang, Cavite and SABV, Toril, Davao. After considering the project in all its aspects, with the favorable opinion of the Delegation Council, I have appointed you as member of the Committee which will follow the implementation of the above mentioned project. I invited Fr. Carmelo Capizzi, as my representative, to act as President of the Committee. I am expecting the Committee to have regular meetings, possibly once a month, and to keep updated all the expenses and incomes and the status of the works so that also at the Delegation level we are updated about the implementation of the project. I ask you to submit monthly report of completion and billings. I would like to thank Fr. Capizzi and all of you for your precious work and service in favor of our young persons in Silang and Toril. Wishing the best, I remain. Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary PD News July - September 2008 25 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR M.R. FR. HENRY RAMOS Responsible Missionary Station of Maumere, Flores INDONESIA Dearest Fr. Ramos, To: Manila, July 2, 2008 Prot. 97 / 08 Re: Admission to the Postulancy I am glad to inform you that, with the favorable opinion of the Delegation Council, I have admitted to the Postulancy the following Seminarians: 1. Yohanes Marianus 2. Henrikus Gualbertus 3. Siprianus Ten Werang May the Virgin Mary and St. Hannibal Mary Di Francia help them to deepen their knowledge and love of Jesus, the Master of our lives. Wishing the best and in union of prayer, I remain Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary 26 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Prot. 103 / 08 Re: Canonical Visit of the Major Superior to the Communities of the Philippine Delegation To: Manila, July 2, 2008 M. R. Superiors and Confreres Philippine Delegation THEIR HOUSES Dearest Confreres, With reference to my letter dated November 1, 2007, Prot. n. 141/07, concerning he Canonical visit of the Major Superior to the houses of the Delegation, I was able to visit already the Communities of Vietnam (November 2-10, 2007), India (November 15-28, 2007) Sideia, Papua New Guinea (May 1 – June 2, 2008), where I sent my delegate, Fr. Jessie Martirizar, Vicar of the Delegation. Now I will continue the visit according to the following schedule: August 11-15, 2008 August 25-31, 2008 Seoul, Korea Cebu, Seminary September 8-13, 2008 September 15-18, 2008 September 24-30, 2008 Manila, Seminary Father Di Francia Center of Studies, Manila Maumere, Flores, Indonesia October 19-21, 2008 October 26-28, 2008 St. Francis Xavier Parish, Parang Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Manila November 3-6, 2008 November 10-15, 2008 November 17-18, 2008 November 19-21, 2008 SABV-Toril, Davao SABV-Silang, Novitiate, Oasis of Prayer Delegation House SHEC – Pasay December 8-11, 2008 Our Lady of the Pillar Parish, Zaragosa The schedule above is still subject to changes as further suggestions are still welcome. I am attaching the letter which I have previously sent to the Communities with the indications for the preparation of the Report and the Community prayer to be recited every day as a preparation to the visit. Wishing the best and in union of prayer, I remain Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary PD News July - September 2008 Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior 27 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Prot. 111 / 08 Re: Details of the Logo Contest and Painting Contest. Philippine Delegation and St. Matthew Manila, August 9, 2008 To: M. R. Superiors and Confreres Philippine Delegation THEIR HOUSES Dearest Confreres, With reference to my letter dated July 2, 2008, Prot. n. 101/08, concerning the Logo Contest and Painting Contest, I am now forwarding attached all the details. I would like also to inform you that the M. R. Superior General, Fr. Giorgio Nalin, has welcomed our request to call our Delegation “Philippine Delegation” and to choose as Patron Saint of our Circumscription the evangelist and apostle St. Matthew (July 24, 2008, Prot. 264/08). While waiting for your creative contributions, I assure my prayer in the Lord. Good work! Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary 28 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus Philippine Delegation Logo and Painting Contest Details A. 1. Rules and Regulations Logo Making 1. The logo making competition is open to all Confreres of the Philippine Delegation and bonafide members of the Communities of our formation house and boys villages. 2. The participants must consider the following criteria: REPRESENTATION AND MEANING: (30%) 1. The logo must be reflective. Conveying a design comprising the circumscription of the Philippine Delegation and its vision-mission. 2. It must show a Rogationist touch. ORIGINALITY AND CREATIVITY: (30%) It should be unique It should be easily remembered. The design should be memorable, timeless shall we say, or wear well over time. The logo must be adaptable. It must not be too modern so that it suits our religious identity, and it must not be too conservative so that it suits the modern times. 5. The logo must be sustainable; contemporary but classic. The concept must not become obsolete soon. 1. 2. 3. 4. APPEARANCE: (20%) 1. It should be simple, clean and easy. 2. The design should have an immediate impact, to catch the viewer’s eye and hold the attention. 3. It should be able to reduce cleanly to two colors, black and white, with no dithering. 4. The number of colors used should be limited. 5. The design should follow solid basic design principles. TECHNICAL QUALITY OF THE DESIGN: (20%) 1. It should be practical; this feature is accompanied by simplicity. The logo must be suitable for all means of communication. (It can be easily published on the web, on printed materials, or even embroidered on a polo shirt or it can be screened on a t-shirt, pen, bag, etc.) 2. It should look acceptable on a wide range of background colors or provide alternate versions that do. PD News July - September 2008 29 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR 3. Must be effective at a range of sizes, from tiny to banner size. 4. A variety of formats are acceptable; the important thing is to submit clear, sharp artwork. Highresolution jpg is best for judging purposes. Printouts and hand drawings are also acceptable. Criteria for Judging Representation and meaning Originality and Creativity Appearance; overall design layout, color scheme Quality of the Design TOTAL 30% 30% 20% 20% 100% A. 2. Rules and Regulation for Painting Contest 1. The theme of the painting should be St. Matthew, (the Evangelist and the Apostle of the Rogate) 2. The painting competition is open to all Confreres of the Philippine Delegation and bonafide members of the community of our formation houses and boys villages. B. Painting Contest Entries Paintings may vary in these categories: Oil/Acrylic, Watercolor / Water-based Media • Watercolor / Water-based Media The surface to be used for this category must be watercolor paper or illustration board. The size of the artwork must not be more than 4ft x 4ft (unframed). • Oil/Acrylic The surface to be used for this category must either be canvas, canvas paper or wood. The size of the artwork must not be more than 4ft x 4ft (unframed). C. Submission Mechanics 1. Entries may be submitted to the Delegation Office, c/o Fr. John Lucas (deadline is November 1, 2008) 24 Calcutta St., Merville Park, 1709 Parañaque City 2. All entries must be properly labled with the following: • Category (Oil/Acrylic, Watercolor/Water-based Media) • Artist (name, address & telephone, cellular phone, or fax nos. and e-mail address) • Title of Entry • Medium (provide a detailed description of materials used and techniques employed) • Dimensions (for Painting Category) 30 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. All participants must submit the following documents: • Three (3) 2” x 2” colored ID photos with applicant’s name at the back • Sketch of the chosen subject matter • Brief description of the subject and why the artist chose it • He must also declare his work is an original & exclusive, whether some elements of his painting were not copied or appropriated from a photograph, print or another painting. Logos can be submitted either in board and paper (8.5” x 11”) or in Photoshop, Illustrator or any graphic software file on this Email jlucas@rcj.org. Participants can only submit one entry per category for the Oil/Acrylic and Watercolor Categories in the painting contest. All entries must be unframed, dry, properly packed, and labeled. Entries using paper must have a protective backing (corrugated board), as support and transparent cover (cellophane or plastic film). There are no entry fees. Failure to comply with the rules and regulations shall automatically disqualify the participant. D. Prizes 1. There is only the first prize for each contest: Logo Contest: P5,000.00 Painting Contest: P15,000.00 2. Consolation prizes (t-shirts with the winning logo) will be given to participants. N.B.: All entries become the property of the Rogationist Philippine Delegation. PD News July - September 2008 31 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Manila, Auguts 9, 2008 Prot. 112 / 08 Re: International meeting of the Rogationist Formators in Morlupo, Roma, on October 21-28, 2008 To: Most Reverend Fathers JESSIE MARTIRIZAR, Manila-Seminary MARCELINO DIAZ, Cebu-Seminary ALFONSO FLORES, Manila-FDFCS JOSE MARIA EZPELETA, Dalat, Vietnam HENRY RAMOS, Maumere, Indonesia Cesare Bettoni, Novitiate, Silang Rodolfo Patiag, RSS-Manila Alex Clemente, Manila-Seminary Ronaldo Paulino, Cebu-Seminary and Ariel Tecson Ronaldo Victoria Silvestre Robiñol Dearest Confreres, I am forwarding the letter of convocation for the International meeting of the Rogationist Formators in Morlupo, Roma, from October 21-28, 2008. Attached are also some indications and outlines for the preparation of a short written report to present and submit during the meeting. Each Formator has to prepare the report for the particular stage of formation he is entrusted with and to submit also the Plan of Formation and other materials to Fr. Antonio Fiorenza, General Councilor in charge of the Formation, upon arrival in Rome. Considering also the expenses supported by the General Curia for the organization of this meeting, I invite each one of you to celebrate 15 Holy Masses according to the intentions of the Superior General during the days of your stay in Rome. Please forward a copy of your report to me not later than August 18, 2008. I am expecting to receive from you also all the details of your passport in order to start the process for your visa. Wishing the best, let us pray fervently for the success of the international meeting of Formators, Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary 32 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Prot. 115 / 08 Re: Health insurance For the Religious of The Philippine Delegation To: Manila, August 9, 2008 . Dearest, THEIR HOUSES MOST REVEREND SUPERIORS AND CONFRERES Philippine Delegation In connection with my letter dated July 12, 2008, Prot. N. 107/08, concerning the health insurance for the Religious of our Delegation, I would like to inform you that with the favorable opinion of the Delegation Councilors, and considering certain difficulties in finding the proper insurance company, I decided to extend the transition period for some more months. In the meantime, while keeping the same amount of money to be forwarded to the fund of the Rogcare as before, the Superior or Responsible of every Community will provide that every Religious may receive the due treatment or any (kind of) check up, including hospitalization, when needed, forwarding all the receipts to the Office of the Delegation Treasurer for payment or reimbursement. For eventual problems or clarifications you can contact directly Fr. Enrique Raveza, Treasurer of the Delegation. Wishing the best and praying for the good health of everyone, I remain Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Enrique Raveza, RCJ Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Treasurer Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary PD News July - September 2008 33 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Manila, September 8, 2008 Birth of the Child Mary Prot. 125 / 08 Re: Admission to the Novitiate To: Cc: M. R. FR. DANIEL YEOUL KIM, Seoul, Korea M. R. FR. JOSE MARIA EZPELETA, Dalat, Vietnam CONFRERES OF THE PHILIPPINE DELEGATION THEIR HOUSES M. R. NOVICE MASTER FR. CESARE BETTONI Novitiate House, Silang, Cavite M. R. SUPERIORS Fr. Carmelo Capizzi, Rcj, Silang, Cavite Delegation House, Manila Dearest, I would like to inform you that, with the consent of the Delegation Council, I have admitted to the Novitiate the following: 1. Postulant DAMINH LANH HUU NGUYEN 2. Postulant IN SOON (JOSEPH) CHOI from Vietnam, from Korea. Thanking the Lord for the gift of new candidates to our Religious Family, I wish the best and pray that the new Novices, through the intercession of the Korean and Vietnamese Martyrs, may persevere in the journey at the fellowship of the Christ of the Rogate and in the footsteps of St. Hannibal. Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary 34 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Manila, September 8, 2008 Birth of the Child Mary Prot. 126 / 08 Re: Meeting of the Brothers in Practical Training To: M. R. SUPERIORS and PREFECTS FR. JESSIE MARTIRIZAR, RCJ, Manila Seminary FR. MARCELINO DIAZ, RCJ, Cebu Seminary FR. CARMELO CAPIZZI, RCJ, SABV, Silang, Cavite FR. HERMAN ABCEDE, RCJ, SABV, Toril, Davao FR. ALEX CLEMENTE, RCJ, Manila Seminary FR. RONALDO PAULINO, RCJ, Cebu Seminary FR. FLORENCE MALASIG, RCJ, SABV, Toril, Davao FR. CARLOS GUZMAN, RCJ, SABV, Silang, Cavite FR. ROBERT SISA, RCJ, SABV, Silang, Cavite Brothers in Practical Training MARK IAN ABU, RG CAGBABANUA, MICHAEL LEYNES (Manila Seminary) RONIE GUMAGAY, TOMMY LATINA ROGIE QUINGA (Cebu Seminary) CARLO BALAGUER, LOVELY RAMIREZ, KRISTIAN TAOK (SABV, Silang, Cavite) ANTONIO NOCELLADO, CHARLESTONE TUMULAK (SABV, Toril, Davao) Cc: Confreres Philippine Delegation THEIR HOUSES Dearest, With reference to my letter dated August 9, 2008, Prot. N. 116/08, I would like to confirm the meeting of the Brothers in Practical Training on October 3-7, 2008 to be held in Cebu. The participants are requested to be in Cebu not later than October 3, 2008, 6:00 P.M. The meeting will end on October 7, 2008, 4:00 P.M., with the celebration of the Eucharist. Attached is a questionnaire to facilitate the encounter. Hoping to see you soon, I wish the best and assure my prayer. Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Marcelino Diaz, RCJ Councilor for Basic Formation Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary PD News July - September 2008 35 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Meeting of the RPT, the Rectors and Prefects with the Major Superior October 4-7, 2008 Day 1 (Oct. 4, 2008) Conference: “Understanding the Psychological Journey of the Youth of Today” Resource Person: Ms. Mariquita “Ketz” Boligol Venue: St. Hannibal Formation House Day 2 (October 5, 2008) AM Pilgrimage : Benedictine Monastery PM Venue: Tabugon, Cebu Personal Questions on the Practical Training Experience of the RPT: 1. Relationship with God: What can you say about your spiritual formation? Is your assignment giving you the opportunity to go deeper into your personal relationship with God through the reception of the sacraments (especially the sacraments of the Eucharist and Confession), spiritual direction and community and personal prayers? In what aspect of your spiritual life did you grow or regress? Why? 2. RELATIONSHIP WITH ONE’S SELF: What can you say about your personal growth in the community? Is your community giving you a time for your personal needs? Is your community offering you the chance to develop yourself as a person? What aspects of your human formation have to be developed yet? 3. RELATIONSHIP WITH THE COMMUNITY: How was your experience with the community? In what way the community promotes or hinders your PT experience? Openness, obedience and active cooperation are necessary attitudes in order to build the community. What was your experience about these? How was your interaction with the Rector and the Prefect? Do you have the chance to meet with your Rector and/or Prefect personally and discuss your personal formation? How often? Day 3 (Oct. 6, 2008) Questionnaire for interaction with the RPT and the Rectors and Prefects AM 1. What is significance of the PT for a Rogationist young religious formation? 2. Is PT a valid instrument to deepen the Brother’s knowledge and love for the Congregation and the Founder? 3. What do you expect the PT could contribute to your formation? 4. Is your present assignment giving you the concretion and the correct knowledge and understanding of PT? 5. What particular challenge/s that you consider very memorable/beautiful for you as a practical trainee? 36 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR PM 6. What do you think is the most difficult situation you confronted during your PT? How were you able to overcome it? How are you overcoming it? 7. Do you think a young religious (in profession) could be an effective collaborator to the formation/education of the youth of today? If Yes, explain how. If No, explain what is lacking in our Propedeutical Courses. 8. What do you suggest in order to make PT more valuable as “exposure time” of your formation to the Rogationist religious priestly life? 9 What are your views about the “preventive method” and the mind of St. Hannibal about education/formation? Is it valid for our present day’s youth issues? 10.If you were given the chance to choose your assignment for the next year’s PT where would you lie to be? You may make two choices a. Fr. Hannibal Formation House - Manila b. St. Hannibal Formation House - Cebu c. SABV - Cavite d. SABV - Davao e. Any mission station outside the country Day 4 (Oct. 7, 2008) - Last meeting with the Major Superior - Swimming Tentative Daily Schedule Day 1 (Oct. 4, 2008) 6:30 - 7:00 - - 9:00 - 10:30 - 10:45 - 12:00 - - 2:30 - 4:00 - 4:15 - 6:00 - Day 2 (Oct. 5, 2008) 6:30 - 6:45 - 7:30 - - 12:00 3:00 6:00 7:00 - - - - Lauds/Meditation Mass Breakfast Conference/Workshop Break Conference/Workshop Lunch Siesta Conference/Workshop Break Conference/Workshop Vespers Lauds Breakfast Departure Holy Mass at the Benedictine Monastery Lunch 1st Session with the Major Superior Vespers Dinner PD News July - September 2008 Day 3 (Oct. 6, 2008) 7:30 - 8:00 - 9:00 - 12:00 - 3:00 - 6:00 - 7:00 - Day 4 (Oct. 7, 2008) 7:00 - 8:00 - 9:00 - 12:00 - - - Lauds/Mass Breakfast 2nd Session with the Major Superior Lunch 3rd Session with the Major Superior Vespers Dinner Lauds/Personal Meditation Breakfast Last Meeting with the Major Superior Lunch Swimming Departure N.B.: Please be reminded to bring tents if you have. 37 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Manila, September 8, 2008 Birth of the Child Mary Prot. 127 / 08 Re: On-going formation for the Confreres who are in the 5 years of Priesthood To: M. R. SUPERIORS AND CONFRERES Philippine Delegation THEIR HOUSES Dearest, In line with the suggestions of the Committee on Religious Life, Government and Permanent Formation and following the indications of the Plan of Government of the Philippine-Indian Delegation for the period of four years 2007-2011 (p. 10-11), with the favorable opinion of the Delegation Council, I would like to invite the Confreres who are in the first five years of their Priesthood to attend the three days of Permanent Formation on October 14-16, 2008, to be held at the Oasis of Prayer, Silang, Cavite, according to the schedule and details which you find attached. Further information will be communicated upon arrival which is fixed not later than October 14, 2008, at 7:00 A.M. For those Priests who are working and living abroad and cannot attend, another course will be organized assuring also of their attendance. Let us pray for the success of the encounter, entrusting to Mary, our Mother, and St. Hannibal our fervent desire to be holy and true Apostles of the Rogate. Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary 38 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Committee on Permanent Formation Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus Philippine Delegation 24 Calcutta St., Merville Park, Parañaque City On-going Formation of those who are in the first 5 Years of Priesthood On Going Formation 101 “Who I am” and “what I do” for the sake of the mission/ministry Rationale: The Philippine Delegation (Formerly Philippine-Indian Delegation) has been very active in opening missionary frontiers and in sharing some of its personnel to other communities in other circumscriptions. Majority of the newly ordained priests are placed into apostolic activities of the Congregations here in the Country and in abroad. This movement has implied positive as well as negative consequence to the new priests/Religious. The Delegation is now trying to systematically consider an on-going formation program for those religious priests in their first five years. The first five years of priestly ministry of the Rogationists is of great importance. It is a foundational stage for a long stretch of future ministries. It is a transition period of the Religious Rogationist Priests from the Theologate life to the field of assignments (Parish, seminaries, Boys Village, SHEC, Missions, etc.). It is considered an initial journey of integration of the religious Rogationist, priestly life and service or ministry. Events The first event: TRANSITION (Departure, arrival, inner movements) The second event: TASK AND CHALLENGES a. Practical Tasks (Closure to and moving on from the seminary or theologate experience, getting to know the new assignment, application of talents and knowledge) b. Task to grow into challenge of a new identity as Rogationist priests (Interior identity, exterior identity, fraternal identity, religious identity, celibate identity etc) Third Event: SPIRITUAL CONCERNS: (coping up with temptations, identification of graces, and discerning capability) The fourth event: Conclusion: Responses and integration Objectives: 1. To share experience in the field of apostolate after coming out form the Theologate 2. To evaluate the lights and shadow in their experiences 3. To learn the techniques/way how to cope up with the new situations PD News July - September 2008 39 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR 4. To be updated of some matters related to human development 5. To have some moments with peers and with the Major Superior Venue Date Resource Persons Oasis of Prayer, Lalaan 2, Silang, Cavite October 14-16, 2008 Mr. Earnest Tan Fr. Joselin Gonda, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo & Others Mode Conference, sharing, processing and encounter Facilitator Fr. Rodolfo Patiag, Jr., Fr. Mike De Silva, Bro. Ed De Palma and Fr. Ariel Tecson Contents Human Development updates. Effective coping skills up with new situations Some indications from the Major Superior Post-activity program Follow-up Sessions/Seminars Conferences/Course Etc. Possible Participants 1. Fr. Hannibal Formation Center - Fr. Viktor Aurellana - Fr. Alex Clemente - Fr. Christopher Salonga - Fr. Eduardo Fernandez 2. St. Anthony’s Boys Village (Silang and Davao) - Fr. Carlos Guzman - Fr. Robert Sisa 3. St. Hannibal Formation Center - Cebu - Fr. Ronaldo Paulino - Fr. Francis Escano - Fr. Alex Poblador 4. St. Francis Xavier Parish (Bataan) - Fr. Julius Descartin 5. SHEC (Pasay) - Fr. Orville Cajigal - Fr. Dexter Prudenciano 6. Vietnam - Fr. Alfonso Heredia 7. Indonesia - Fr. Breynard Peji - Fr. Henry Ramos 8. Rome - Fr. Ronaldo Masilang 9. Poland - Fr. Herbie Cañete N.B.:For those priests who are working and living abroad and cannot attend, another course will be organized assuring also of their attendance. 40 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR Prot. 128 / 08 Re: New Board of Trustees St. Hannibal Multilevel School Foundation, Inc. To: cc: Manila, September 8, 2008 Birth of the Child Mary M. R. FR. ARIEL TECSON, President M. R. FR. CARMELO CAPIZZI, Vice-President M. R. FR. HERMAN ABCEDE, Chairman M. R. FR. ULRICH GACAYAN, Treasurer M. R. FR. ALFONSO FLORES, Secretary M. R. FR. BENJAMIN REDOBLE M. R. FR. ENRIQUE RAVEZA, III M. R. FR. VIKTOR AURELLANA MS. MARISA RIVERA Dearest, Considering the recent turn-over of offices in our Parish Community of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Multinational Village, Parañaque City, with the favorable opinion of the Delegation Council, I proceeded to appoint the new members of the Board of Trustees of St. Hannibal Multilevel School Foundation, Inc.: Fr. Benjamin Redoble, Fr. Alfonso Flores, Fr. Enrique Raveza, III, Fr. Viktor Aurellana, and Ms. Marisa Rivera. I would like to thank the outgoing Board of Trustees for their commitment and service, while I wish the best to the new members. I invite Fr. Ariel Tecson, outgoing President, to convoke a meeting for the official turn-over and to prepare a report of accomplishment as soon as possible. Wishing the best, I remain Sincerely yours in Christ, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, RCJ Major Superior Fr. John Lucas, RCJ Secretary PD News July - September 2008 41 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR ROGATIONIST PHILIPPINE DELEGATION (Updated September 2008) Members of the Delegation Council FR. BRUNO RAMPAZZO FR. JESSIE MARTIRIZAR FR. ENRIQUE RAVEZA III FR. HERMAN ABCEDE FR MARCELINO DIAZ FR. JOHN LUCAS - - - - - - Major Superior Vicar and Councilor Treasurer and Councilor Councilor Councilor Secretary of the PD 1. CEBU “Seminary” - SAINT HANNIBAL FORMATION CENTER 1. FR. MARCELINO DIAZ Superior, Treasurer 2. FR. ULYSES ANGUS Vice-Superior, Spiritual Father, In-charge of the UPV 3. FR. FRANCIS PAUL ESCAÑO Prefect of Studies, Assistant Treasurer House and Formation Councilor 4. FR. ALEX POBLADOR Vocation Promoter, Benefactor’s Office, Lay Rogationist Associations (Pamilya Rog); House and Formation Councilor Prefect of Discipline, House and Formation Councilor 5. FR. RONALDO PAULINO 6. FR. RENATO ARVIN RAMIREZ Spiritual Father (non-resident) 7. BRO. RONIE GUMAGAY Assistant of the Seminarians 9. BRO. TOMMY LATINA Assistant of the Seminarians 9. BRO. ROGIE QUINGA Assistant of the Seminarians 2 . MANILA - “Seminary” - FR. HANNIBAL FORMATION CENTER 1. FR. JESSIE MARTIRIZAR Superior 2. FR. CHRISTOPER SALONGA Vice-Superior, Treasurer, Benefactor’s Office, House and Formation Councilor Prefect of Discipline, House and Formation Councilor 3. FR. ALEX CLEMENTE 4. FR. JOSEPH AVENI Spiritual Father, Formation Councilor 5. FR. VIKTOR AURELLANA Vocation Promoter, Prefect of Studies, House and Formation Councilor 6. FR. RENATO ARVIN RAMIREZ Spiritual Father (non-resident) 7. BRO. MARK IAN ABU Assistant of the Seminarians 8. BRO. RG CAGBABANUA Assistant of the Seminarians 9. BRO. MICHAEL LEYNES Assistant of the Seminarians 42 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR 3. MANILA “Studentate” – FR. DI FRANCIA CENTER OF STUDIES 1. FR. ALFONSO FLORES Superior, Prefect of Religious 2. FR. JOHN JOFFER LUCAS Vice-Superior, Treasurer, House and Formation Councilor, In-charge of the Post Novitiate Year 3. FR. RODOLFO PATIAG JR. Spiritual Father, Formation Councilor (non-resident) POST NOVITIATE YEAR (PNY) 1. BRO. ELVIS BACUS 2. BRO. RYAN JIMENEZ 3. BRO. JOEL RICAFRANCA 4. BRO. WILFORD URMAZA THEOLOGY STUDENTS 1ST Year Theology 1. BRO. GIULIO BELARMINO 2. BRO. RANNY RODRIGUEZ 2ND Year Theology 1. BRO. MENARD CADELINIA 2. BRO. JENNESAN CANOY 3. BRO. SANTOS SOLITARIO 3RD Year Theology 1. BRO. TIRSO ALCOVER 2. BRO. NOEL BALQUIN 3. BRO. RICARDO CAPERIÑA 4. BRO. VINCENT DUMDUM 5. BRO. JEFFREY JAGURIN 6. BRO. HERBERT MAGBUO 7. BRO. REY VILLAMONTE 4TH Year Theology 1. BRO. GERALD BIÑEGAS 2. BRO. RUEL DESAMPARADO 3. BRO. ELMER DULA 4. MANILA - “Parish” - OUR LADY OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY 1. FR. BENJAMIN REDOBLE Superior, Parish Priest 2. FR. ULRICH GACAYAN Vice-Superior, Treasurer, Assistant Parish Priest, House Councilor, Editor-in-Chief Rogate Ergo (Asia Edition) 3. FR. ALVIN FULGENCIO House Councilor, Collaborator in the activities of the Community and of the Parish PD News July - September 2008 43 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR 4. FR. JOSEPH ARCAÑO House Councilor, Collaborator in the activities of the Community and of the Parish 5. MANILA – Delegation House : “Seat of the Rogationist Philippine Delegation” 1. FR. BRUNO RAMPAZZO Superior 2. FR. RODOLFO PATIAG JR. Vice-Superior, Treasurer, In-charge of the Rogationist Senior Seminary, PIVM in-charge, House Councilor, Spiritual Father non-resident at FDFCS 3. FR. RENATO ARVIN R.AMIREZ In-charge of Social Communication of the Rogate Center, Responsible Statue Laboratory, House Councilor, Spiritual Father non-resident at FHFC – Manila and SHFC - Cebu 4. FR. ARIEL TECSON Attending Courses at Galilee Center, Tagaytay 6. MAUMERE, FLORES, INDONESIA - Rogasionis Hati Yesus (Missionary Station) 1. FR. HENRY RAMOS Responsible of the Seminary 2. FR. BREYNARD PEJI Collaborator and Formator 3. BRO. WESLEY TAGUIBAO Collaborator in the activities of the House 4. BRO. EDGAR DACALDACAL Assistant 7. PARANG, BATAAN “St. Francis Xavier Parish” (Missionary Station) 1. FR. ANTONIO DAMMAY Responsible, Parish Priest of St. Francis Xavier Parish 2. FR. JULIUS DESCARTIN Assistant Parish Priest, Collaborator in the Activities of the Community and of the Parish, In-Charge of the Financial Matters 8. SAINT HANNIBAL EMPOWERMENT CENTER - Inserted Community (Affiliated to the Delegation House) 1. FR. DEXTER PRUDENCIANO Responsible 2. FR. ORVILLE CAJIGAL Collaborator 9. SEOUL (South Korea) Missionary Station 1. FR. DANIEL HO YEOUL KIM Responsible 10. SIDEIA (Papua New Guinea) Missionary Station 1. FR. RONALDO VICTORIA Responsible, Parish Priest, Treasurer 2. BRO. CHRISTIAN DE SAGUN Collaborator in the Activities of the Community and of the Parish 11. SILANG – SAINT ANTHONY’S BOYS VILLAGE 1. FR. CARMELO CAPIZZI Superior, In-charge of the P. D. Projects 2. FR. MARIANO RONDAEL Vice-Superior, Treasurer, Rector of the Rogationist College, House Councilor 44 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR 3. FR. CARLOS GUZMAN 4. FR. EDUARDO FERNANDEZ 5. FR. MIGUEL DE SILVA 6. FR. ENRIQUE RAVEZA III 7. FR RITO YBAÑEZ 8. FR. ROBERT SISA 9. BRO. EDUARDO DE PALMA 10. BRO. CARLO BALAGUER 11. BRO. LOVELY RAMIREZ 12. BRO. KRISTIAN TAOK Prefect of the Boys, House Councilor Vice Rector Rogationist College, House Councilor, Student In-charge of the Oasis of Prayer, House Councilor Collaborator in the Oasis of Prayer, House Councilor In-charge of the Rogate Press, House Councilor Assistant Prefect of the Interns, House Councilor Assistant Treasurer, House Councilor, R.C. Chief Librarian and Purchasing Officer Assistant of the Interns Assistant of the Interns Assistant of the Interns NOVITIATE HOUSE 1. FR. CESARE BETTONI Novice Master, House Councilor The Novices: 1. BRO. JESSEL BANGOY 2. BRO. LEON XAVIER BAÑEZ 3. BRO. JOBERT BELGICA 4. BRO. RANDY CARORO 5. BRO. JOSEPH CHOI INSOON 6. BRO. ZANDER CONSON 7. BRO. CARL ANTHONY FALCOTELO 8. BRO. PATRICK IAN MARCELO 9. BRO. LANH NGUYEN HUU 10. BRO. REDEMER PUTOL 11. BRO. WELBERT SUAREZ 12. BRO. REGINO TRINIDAD, JR. 13. BRO. SHERWIN VALENZUELA 12. TORIL, DAVAO - SAINT ANTHONY’S BOYS VILLAGE 1. FR. HERMAN ABCEDE Superior, Treasurer, Rector of the School 2. FR. FLORENCE MALASIG Vice-Superior, Prefect of Discipline, Assistant Treasurer, House Councilor 3. FR. DANNY MONTAÑA Principal of the Rogationist Academy, House Councilor 4. BRO. ANTONIO NOCELLADO Assistant of the Interns 5. BRO. CHARLESTONE TUMULAKAssistant of the Interns 13. VIETNAM: Ho Chi Minh and Dalat (Missionary Station) 1. FR. JOSE MARIA EZPELETA Responsible 2. FR. ALFONSO HEREDIA Collaborator 3. BRO. DANTE QUIDAYAN Collaborator 4. BRO. KING CENA Collaborator 5. BRO. ARLENE GUMANGAN Collaborator PD News July - September 2008 45 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church LETTERS OF THE MAJOR SUPERIOR 14. ZARAGOZA, BOLINAO - “Our Lady of Pillar Parish” 1. FR. NIPTALE FROGOSA Superior, Treasurer, Parish Priest 2. FR. NICOLAS VILLORA Vice-Superior, Assistant Treasurer, Assistant Parish Priest, House Councilor 3. FR. MARIANO RANERA Collaborator in the Pastoral Activities of the House and House Councilor RELIGIOUS OF THE PD (Residing Abroad) 1. FR. GABRIEL FLORES 2. FR. FERICO DUQUE 3. FR. RONALDO MASILANG 4. FR. HERBIE CAÑETE 5. FR. SILVESTRE ROBIÑOL 6. BRO. NILO PELOBELLO 7. BRO. KENNETH CORTEZ 8. BRO. JOHN YOUN Curia Generalizia (Councilor General) Rome (taking specialization) Rome (taking specialization) Cracow, Poland Rome (taking specialization) Centro di Spiritualita’ (Morlupo) Centro di Spiritualita’ (Morlupo) Rome (taking specialization) ABSENS A DOMO RELIGIOSA 1. FR. ELDEN JUDE MENDOZA 2. FR. JULITO PEQUE JR. 3. FR. RENO GARCEL 4. FR. ABELARDO BALBOA 5. FR. ARVIN REVAGORDA 46 PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church For your Information The Most Reverend Superior General, Fr. Giorgio Nalin, with a letter dated July 24, 2008, Prot. n. 264/08, has informed that he authorizes our Circumscription be called “PHILIPPINE DELEGATION” and approves our choice to have as a particular Protector ST. MATTHEW, the apostle and evangelist. The Most Reverend Superior General, Fr. Giorgio Nalin, with a letter dated July 24, 2008, Prot.n. 265/08, has granted Fr. Silvestre Robinol to take his Licentiate Courses in Religious Life in Rome. The Most Reverend Superior General, Fr. Giorgio Nalin, with a letter dated August 31, 2008, Prot. n. 286/08, has appointed Fr. Danny Montana, as member of the Commission for the Lineamenta of the XI General Chapter of our Congregation. The Most Reverend Superior General, Fr. Giorgio Nalin, with a Letter dated September 24, 2008, Prot. n. 336/08, has granted the dispensation from the Religious Vows to Bro. Anthony Abatayo. The Most Reverend Superior General, Fr. Giorgio Nalin, with a letter dated September 23, 2008, prot. n.337/08, has granted the permission to start the construction of a new chapel and “Father Hannibal Children Center” in our Seminary of Merville Park, Paranaque City, Metro Manila. NEW ASSIGNMENTS Fr. Mariano Rondael, Vice Superior, Rector and Treasurer of the Community of SABV Silang, Cavite, has been assigned as Spiritual Father non resident of the Seminarians in Fr. Hannibal Formation Center, Merville Park, Paranaque City, Metro Manila with a letter dated July 2, 2008, Prot. n. 98/08. Bro. John Youn, Community of Seoul, is assigned to the International Center of Studies in Rome, to start his Licentiate Courses with a letter dated July 2, 2008, Prot. n. 102/08 Fr. Eduardo Fernandez with a letter dated August 9, 2008, Prot. n. 113/08 has been assigned as Vice Rector of the Rogationist College and House Councilor while continuing his doctoral studies in La Salle University in our Community of SABV Silang, Cavite. Fr. Viktor Aurellana, Vocation Promoter and House Councilor in FHFC, Merville Park, Paranaque City, has been assigned as Prefect of Studies of the Rogationist Seminary College, with a letter dated August 9, 2008, Prot. n. 114/08. With a letter dated September 8, 2008, Prot. n. 129/08 the M.R. Major Sueperior, Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, has appointed the new Board of Trustees of the St. Hannibal Multilevel School Foundation, Inc. named: Fr. Benjamin Redoble, Fr. Enrique Raveza III, Fr. Viktor Aurellana, Fr. Alfonso Flores and Ms. Marisa Rivera. PD News July - September 2008 47 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church FROM THE GENERAL CURIA Spiritual Exercises for the Family of the Rogate From July 27 to August 2, 2008 in the Spirituality Center of Morlupo, Rome, it was organized the annual course of Spiritual Exercises for the family of the Rogate. The theme chosen: “I gave you the example” (John 13:14) was deepened by Fr. Giuseppe De Virgilio, a known Bible scholar. Planning week From September 15 to 21, 2008 in the House of the Daughters of Divine Zeal, Montepulciano (Siena), the General Council with the Superior General and the General Treasurer met for the annual planning, revision of life and verification. Preparation of the 2010 General Chapter As provided by our Norms, and after consulting the Superiors of the Circumscriptions, the Superior General, Fr. Giorgio Nalin, has constituted a Commission “ for the study, deepening and drafting of a basic text (lineamenta)” on the theme of the XI General Chapter: “The rule of life, guarantee of the charismatic identity, expression of the consecration, support of the fraternal communion, project of mission”. The commission is composed by Fr. Gabriel Flores, President, Fr. Louis Buhuru ( African Delegation), Fr. Adamo Calo (Italian Central North province), Fr. Gilson Maia (Latin American Province), Fr. Sandro Perrone (Italian Central South Province), Fr. Danny Montana (Philippine Delegation), Fr. Rene Panlasigui (USA Delegation), Fr. Vinu Velutheppilly (Indian Delegation). The Commission should submit the work within the month of January 2009. Course of Permanent Formation On September 21, 2008 the second annual course on Permanent Formation started in the Spirituality Center of Morlupo, Rome; it will end on October 19, 2008. Participation to the European Forum of the National Vocational Centers From July 3 to 6, 2008 it was held in Porto (Portugal) the European Congress of the Vocations. The topic chosen: “Samaritans of hope for a human and Christian Europe”. The 48 meeting organized by the European Vocation Service (EVS), organism of the Council of he Episcopal Conferences of Europe (CCEE), was attended by almost 100 representatives coming from twenty different nations. The International Vocational Rogate Center of Rome was represented by Fr. Raffaele Sacco. In his intervention , starting from the analysis of the Documents of the Council which treated about the pastoral on vocations, he outlined the journey of the Church up to the nineties. FROM THE ITALIAN CENTRAL SOUTH PROVINCE Summer vocational camp From July 24 to August 4, 2008 a summer vocational mission camp was organized in Albania. The experience was held in the Centers of Pllana and Shenkoll (Lezhe, Scutari) and was attended by many young persons from 17 years above. Meeting of the Provincial Superior with the young Priests of the Province July 14 to 19, 2008 in the House of the Salesians in Zafferana Etnea, the young Priests of the Province met with Fr. Francesco Bruno, Provincial Superior, and Fr. Ciro Fontanella, Provincial Treasurer for a period of reflection and sharing on the topic of dialoge. The first two days have been animated by Dr. Gianfranco Pinto, and then by Fr. Rosario Graziosi, RCJ, and Fr. Antonio Paciello, RCJ. Fr. Massimiliano Nobile was also present. Vocational summer camp in Messina From July 2 to 8, 2008 it was held in Messina a vocational summer camp organized by the Rogationist minor Seminaries of Messina, Napoli and Oria. 140 young persons have been attending the encounter, some seminarians, priests and lay collaborators. Among all those who attended 15 adolescents asked to enter in the Seminary. Entrance to the Novitiate and first Profession in Messina On September 7, 2008, in the Basilica-Shrine of St. Anthony in Messina, during the Vigil in honor the Child Mary, the PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church Postulants Domenico Giannone, Rafael Laskwski, Emanuele Marabeti, Marco Pappalettera and Antonio Vasta have been admitted to the Novitiate. The celebration has been presided by Fr. Francesco Bruno, Provincial Superior. The day after, feast of the Nativity of Mary, in the same Basilica, during the Eucharist celebration presided by the Provincial, the Novices Roberto Caminiti, Antonio Fiscella, Claudio Pizzuto, Giuseppe Pappalettera and Erik Soltes had the first Profession of the Religious Vows. Numerous relatives, friends, benefactors and the Seminarians from Messina, Napoli and Oria were present. FROM THE ITALIAN CENTRAL NORTH PROVINCE Consecration of the Church of St. Anthony in Circonvallazione Appia After the works of renovation and on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the inauguration of the Church and 20 years as a Parish many activities have been organized by the Parish Community in the month of June 2008. On June 9-10 Fr. Ildebrando Scicolone of the Order of St. Benedict preached about the meaning and importance of the dedication of the Parish Church; on June 12 there was a solemn prayer Vigil in preparation to the consecration of the Church; on June 13: solemnity for us of St. Anthony of Padua. His Excellency Msgr. Rino Fisichella presides over the solemn Eucharist Celebration , followed by the procession with the statue of St. Anthony; on June 14 His Eminence Cardinal Angelo Comastri solemnly consecrates the Church with a great participation of people; on June 15 celebration of the 50th priestly anniversary of Fr. Riccardo Pignatelli and the 30th of Fr. Mario Filippone, Parish Priest. New statue of St. Hannibal in the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Padua On July 6, 2008 during a solemn Eucharist celebration in the Parish Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Padua a new statue of St. Hannibal has been blessed. The Parish Priest, Fr. Vittorio, during the homily, has thanked the Daughters of Divine Zeal, who are offering their pastoral service in the Parish, for the gift of the statue which is a concrete sign of devotion and an invitation to the people of the Parish to follow in the footsteps of St. Hannibal. 50th priestly anniversary of Frs. Pignatelli and Chirulli in St. Anthony Piazza Asti On July 13, 2008 in the Parish of St. Anthony in Piazza Asti, Rome, the Provincial Superior, Fr. Silvano Pinato, has presided a solemn Eucharist celebration remembering the 50th priestly anniversary of Fr. Riccardo Pignatelli and Fr. Chirulli Antonio who concelebrated with him. PD News July - September 2008 Comic-strip story of the life of St. Hannibal in Slovakian language Through the interest of Fr. Tiziano Pegoraro, RCJ, who is working in Bratislava (Slovakia) , a comic –strip story of St. Hannibal’s life was printed on the month of September 2008. Summer vocational camp for youth in the Community of Padua From July 0 to 28, 008 a summer vocational camp for youth coming from Poland has been organized by the Community of Padua in collaboration with he movement ERA of Poland. Perpetual Profession of Vlastimil Chovanec On September 8, 2008 in the Parish of St. Anthony of Padua in Piazza Asti, Rome, during the Eucharis Celebration the Religious Vlastimil Chavanec had his Perpetual Profession, while the young Religious Kazimierz Sobanski, Jean Pierrew Ntabwoka, Dawid Janicki, Marcin Bajda, Manhal J. Abboush, nde Gebrehiwet, Leonardo lillo, Dario Rossetti, Lucio Scalia, Pavol Knut, Firas A. Kidher and Giovanni sefanelli renewed their temporary Vows. The celebration has been presided by the Provincial Superior, Fr. Silvano Pinato at the presence of many Confreres, the Daughters of Divine Zeal, parents of the Religious, relatives, friends and benefactors. FROM THE LATIN AMERICAN PROVINCE Annual Retreat in San Lorenzo, Paraguay From July 14-19, 2008 23 Religious of the Province attended on a Course of Spiritual Exercises preached by the Salesian Fr. Elvio Aguirre in San Lorenzo, Paraguay. Meeting of the Rogationist formandees From July 23 to 27, 2008 in the Seat of the Rogate Center, Sao Paulo, it was held the 21st encounter of the Formators and those who are in the different stages of formation: Theology, Practical Training, Novitiate Philosophy and Propedeutical year. The topic chosen: “The art of being Rogationist because to be Rogationist is an art in the footsteps of St. Hannibal”. General Assembly of the IPV The Institute on Vocation Ministry (IPV) held the General Extraordinary and elective Assembly from August 15-17, 2008. On the occasion it was celebrated the 15th anniversary of foundation of the Institute and the board of Directors has been renewed for the three years 2008-2011. Among the newly elected members there is Fr. Angelo Mezzari, RCJ, President of the Supreme Council, and Fr. Geraldo Tadeu Furtado, RCJ, Executive Secretary. Meeting of the Commission of the Educators On August 19-20, 2008 it was held in the Rogate Center of Sao Paulo the meeting of the Commission of the Educators 49 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church Encounter of those in the Propedeutical Course From September 5-7, 2008 in Bauru (SP) there was a meeting of those in Propedeutical year, of the young persons starting the experience of the Propedeutical year and other youth contacted by the vocation promoters. Meeting of the Commission on Finacial matters On September 15, 2008 in the Rogate Center of Sao Paulo there was an encounter of the Commission of the Treasurers of the Province (EASE) in order to discuss some financial matters. Meeting of the Superiors On September 16-17, 2008 it was held in Sao Paulo (SP) the meeting of all the Superiors of the Communities with the Provincial Superior and Council. FROM THE PHILIPPINE DELEGATION New Director of the Vocations, Cebu Chapter Last June 21, 2008 Fr. Alex Poblador, Vocation Promoter in our Seminary of Cebu, has been elected Director of the Vocations in the Philippines (DVP), Cebu Chapter: Congratulations and good work! Celebration in honor of St. Hannibal in Cebu On July 5, 2008, 157th anniversary of the birth of St. Hannibal, different activities have been organized in our Seminary of Cebu. Almost 700 children from the squatters and the poor areas of the surroundings spent a day in the Community where the Confreres and the Seminarians organized activities for them. Admission to the Seminary and the UPV On July 6, 2008 during the celebration of the Eucharist presided by Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, Fr. Jessie Martirizar, Superior of the Seminary of Manila, has welcomed 21 new Seminarians. After the communion there was also a simple rite of admission of four new members to the Union of Prayer for Vocations. Participation to the World Youth Day On July 8, 2008 Fr. Carmelo Capizzi together with Bishop Ottavio Vitale, who arrived in the Philippines last July 5, 2008, some young persons and Teachers of our Rogationist College of Silang, Cavite, attended in Sydney, Australia, on the World Youth Day 2008. They came back on July 22, 2008. Degree in Development management Fr. Dexter Prudenciano of SHEC, after the thesis defense on “Strategy for the Saint Hannibal Empowerment Center” has obtained the Degree in Development management last July 8 in the Asian Institute for management (AIM), Makati : congratulations! 50 Canonical visit of the Major Superior Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, Major Superior, has started the canonical visit to the Communities of the Delegation. Accompanied by Fr. Enrique Raveza, Treasurer, and by Fr. John Lucas, Secretary, he has visited the Community of Seoul, Korea, from August 11-15, 2008 and the Seminary of Cebu from August 25-31, 2008. He continued the visit to the Community of Manila Seminary from September 8-13, 2008, to the Father Di Francia Center of Studies from September 15-18, 2008 and to the Missionary Station of Maumere, Flores, Indonesia from September 24-30, 2008. UPV voluntary service in SABV Toril, Davao From September 2-7, 2008, accompanied by Fathers Dexter Prudenciano, Ariel Tecson and Rene Ramirez, the UPV members, Manila Chapter, have offered a voluntary service to the boys of our Saint Anthony’s Boys Village of Toril, Davao. Joint venture of Manila Seminary and Our Lady of Beautiful Love Parish Our Seminary of Manila, Father Hannibal Formation Center, and the Parish to which we belong in Merville Parish, Our Lady of Beautiful Love, represented by the Superior of the Community, Fr. Jessie Martirizar, and by the Parish Priest, Msgr. Armando Antonio Villaruz, have signed a contract of joint fund raising to support the poor young persons, almost 1000, who are frequenting every Sunday our Seminary, for the formation of the Seminarians and for the poor of the Parish. A new initiative of concrete collaboration between Religious and Diocesan Priests. The agreement has been signed at the presence of the Diocesan Bishop of Paranaque, His Excellency Msgr. Jesse Mercado on September 5, 2008. Meeting of the Commission for the Organization of the Missionary Forum On September 6, 2008 F. Gabriel Flores, General Councilor in charge of the Missions, has met the members of the Commission for the organization of the Missionary Forum on the occasion of the Rogationist Mission Day for the 2009. The Project chosen by the General Government is the realization of formation and technical courses for youth of our Parish of Parang, Bataan. At the meeting were present Fr. Jessie Martirizar, Fr. Ben jamin Redoble, Fr. Antonio Dammay, Fr. Julius Descartin and Fr. Enrique Raveza, Treasurer of the Delegation. Fr. Bruno Rampazzo opened the works of the Commission. Admission to the Novitiate After a week of spiritual exercises animated by Fr. Cesare Bettoni, Novice Master, the Postulants Daminh Lanh Huu Nguyen from Vietnam and In Soon Joseph Choi from Korea have been admitted to the Novitiate. The ceremony has been presided by Fr. Bruno Rampazzo, Major Superior, in the chapel of the Novitiate House. PD News July - September 2008 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church FROM THE INDIAN DELEGATION Admission to the first Religious Profession and Postulancy On July 3, 2008, feast of St. Thomas apostle, in Aluva, kerala, three young Novices , Aneesh Joseph Kannampuzha, Lixon Paul Puthanagady and Vineesh Varghese Naduvilpeedika have been admitted to the first Profession. In the evening of the same day three Sminariansd of the third year of Philosophy have been admitted to the Postulancy, John Paul, Nithin and Deleep. Religious Professions and entrance to the Propedeutical year On September 8, 2008, feast of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, in the Rogate Ashram of Aluva seven young Religious renewed their Vows in the ands of the Major Superior, Fr. Luigi Toffanin. Three young aspirants in Aluva and sixteen in Mananthavady have been admitted to the Propedeutical year before the Novitiate. FROM THE AFRICAN DELEGATION Ministry of Lectorate On July , 2008 Eucharistic Rogationist Day par excellence, in Ngoya, cmeroon, the Religious Students Ntawigenera Eugene and Ndashimye Jean Claude have been admitted to the Ministry of Lectorate. The celebration has been presided by Fr. Eros Borile, Major Superior of the Delegation. THE PD NEWS The PD News is the official bulletin of the Philippine Delegation. It aims to foster better communication and knowledge about our Circumscription. Lay-out: Eric Lait PD NEWS Philippine Delegation Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus 24 Calcutta St. Merville Park Parañaque City 1700 Philippines Tel. 776-0392 Something to know July 5 Anniversary of the birth of Father Founder, St. Hannibal Mary Di Francia, in Messina, Italy, 1851 July 13 50th Priestly anniversary of Frs. ANTONIO CHIRULLI, ARTURO MELE and RICCARDO PIGNATELLI in Trani, Bari, 1958 : AD MULTOS ANNOS! July 22 Anniversary of the re-election of the Most Reverend Superior General, Fr. Giorgio Nalin – 2004: CONGRATULATIONS! August 6 Anniversary of the Canonical Approval of our Congregation – 1926 September 8 Anniversary of the foundation of the Charitable-Educative Female Institutes in Avignone Quarter - 1882 September 14 Anniversary of the definitive approval of the name of our Congregation “Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus” - 1901 September 21 Anniversary of foundation of our House in Cebu – 1990 PD News July - September 2008 51 Send O Lord, Holy Apostles into your Church Happy Birthday july 7/7/77 7/7/64 7/13/85 7/14/53 7/17/61 7/21/83 7/30/64 august 8/09/81 Bro. Tirso Alcover 8/22/64 Fr. Ronaldo Victoria 8/29/84 Bro. Kristian Taok Fr. Francis Paul Escaño Fr. Danny Montaña Bro. Carlo Balaguer Fr. Cesare Bettoni Fr. Sylvestre Robiñol Bro. Rogie Quinga Fr. Ariel Tecson september 9/8/77 Fr. Breyna rd Peji 9/9/72 Fr. Ferico N icolas Duq 9/12/63 ue Fr. Migue l De Silva 9/23/62 , J r. Fr. Marian o Rondael, 9/27/56 Jr. Fr. Niptale Frogosa Priestly Anniversary july 7/15/45 Fr. Giuseppe Aveni 7/17/55 Fr. Gaspare Gallitto gosa le Fro dia a t p i N september e Fr. lfonso Her s A 9/1/91 . Fr lyses Angu U 9/1/07 es Fr. abriel Flor va, Jr. 0 9 / 9 / G il 9 9 Fr. iguel De S 8 / 3 2 / M 9 7 Fr. 9/27/9 august 8/2/73 F r. Carmelo Capizzi 8/5/06 F r. Francis P aul Escaño 8/15/92 F r. Benjie Re doble 8/30/97 F r. Daniel K im Ho Yeou l Congratulations! 52 PD News July - September 2008