Year 4 | Issue No. 15 Jun - Jul - Aug 2010
Woe to me
if I don’t preach the
Youth Ministry:
Formation:
Provincial Events:
ZAMBIA - ZIMBABWE - MALAWI - NAMIBIA
GOSPEL
Volunteers’ Meeting - Chawama
Priestly Ordination of Michael Mbandama SDB
VI Provincial Chapter
Editorial 3
Words of the Provincial 4
Benedict’s burden 5
Volunteers’ meeting 2010 6
Young 7
XVI Gradutaion Ceremony - Moshi` 8
News from ZMB - April 2010 9
May 2010 10
June 2010 11
Salesians Zimbabwe - Hwange 13
Tu est Petrus 14
St. Joseph Cafasso 15
Salesians Malawi - Lilongwe 17
Salesian Family - In Memoriam 18
Salesians Namibia - Rundu 19
Kabwe in pictures 19
100 Anniversary
of the death of Blessed Michael Rua
Director: Fr. Joseph Czerwinski sdb
Editor: Fr. Javier Barrientos
Redaction Board: Fr. Dennis HigginsJoseph Czerwinski,
Fr. Javier Barrientos
Graphic Design: Fr. Javier Barrientos
Photos: Fr. Leszek Aksamit, Fr Antonio Barrientos,
Moshi SDBs
E-mail:
Website:
zmbsocialc@zmb.co.zm
www.salesianszmb.org
Salesian Newslink | ZMB Quarterly publication
Year 4/Nº15 Jun - Jul - Aug 2010
2 Salesian NewslinkZMB
Photo cover:
Archbishop Telesphord Mpundu laying on of hands on deacon Michael
Mbandama during the Ordination ceremony in Lusaka.
Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
Makeni: Mr. Casimir while opens the containers
to check on the roof that arrived from Italy
Bauleni: Young people process in traditional outfit
during the First Mass of Fr. Michael M.
Chawama: Young Salesians on their way to Bauleni
for the First Mass of Fr. Michael Mbamdama
3Salesian NewslinkZMB
he ancient father St. Ireneus said, ‘the The ancient Greek thinker Aristotle would say,
glory of God is man fully alive, and the “an unreflected life is not worth living.” Tglory of man is to see God.’ God’s Following this, the province gathered to
glory here is defined in terms of man’s full reflect on its life during the chapter. The VI
development and exaltation over all creation. Provincial Chapter which congregated 26
The glory of the Creator thus can be compared confreres from the various communities at the
to the happiness and joy a parent finds in his provincial house was a providential moment
child’s achievement, where every little thing is in the history of the province. We gathered to
enough reason for a big celebration. In this spend some days of intense reflection,
context, I believe, the ordination to the evaluation and planning for the future. It was
priesthood of our confrere Michael truly a moment of grace for all. I must say that
Mbandama was also to the greater glory of the Vice-Province is being privileged with
God, who works in each of us in mysterious such events which are constant reminders of
ways. Michael’s journey to the priesthood in fidelity and of the reality that despite the big
the Salesian life has been a very interesting challenges we face, we are not alone. And that
one. It started as we would say ‘in the normal the hustles are not stumbling blocks but
way’ and it developed later on into ‘a unique stepping stones. The PC6 served to reawaken
way’. He did his studies of philosophy in two our apostolic zeal and enthusiasm; it was a
Salesian centres, his theology also in two Pentecost experience in which we all came out
different centres until he has at last been fired up with Don Bosco and afire with the
ordained to the priesthood. Many saw his gospel.
journey in the Salesian life as an impossible
one, or at least a difficult one. Yet, through The feast of Mary Help of Christians was also
God’s intervention and man’s response it has celebrated in different ways in the various
come to what we have recently witnessed: a communities of our province. This shows us
ceremony in which the mystery of God leaves how Mary is always with us on our way. In
the person in a humble attitude of total of many of our schools, parishes, centres and
admiration of the divine and worship of God communities, the celebration of Mary Help of
whose wisdom none can fathom. Christians was preceded by a well prepared
novena. And on the actual day different
To my understanding, the second part of St. activities were held apart from the Eucharist:
Ireneus’ axiom was accomplished during the Marian walks, quizzes, dramas and other
recitation of the Litany of the saints where the activities were done in honour of our Lady the
deacons to be ordained priests prostrated Help of Christians.
themselves in front of the mystery of God and
vow in adoration in front of the One who lives, In conclusion the words of St Ireneus, “the
in total surrender. Surely none of us physically glory of man is to see God” are in keeping with
saw God on that day, but the glory of His the strenna for this year, “Sir we want to see
presence was an undeniable reality; and this is Jesus.” A strenna which reminds us that ours is
perhaps what will guide Michael in his life and not mere human development or just social
ministry. work, but is rather the involvement in the
integral growth of young people, considering
Michael’s ordination was also the best way to their spiritual, emotional, physical, and
end the celebration of the Year of the Priest. intellectual growth. And above all the most
The occasion of the ordination brought important being the spiritual, considering that
together people from various walks of life, this “society (i.e. the Salesian Family) started
confreres from various countries and showed with a simple catechism lesson.”
how much we are all linked and also united.
Prior to the ordination the unity had been
mirrored by the cordial spirit during the
Provincial Chapter VI.
June 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
The Glory of
God is the man
fully ALIVE!
EditorialFr Javier Antonio Barrientos SDB zmbyouthd@zmb.co.zm
and the glory of man is to see GOD!
(St. Ireneus)
strength and power comes from his
wounded, but at the same time, deeply
believing heart.
Here Karl Rahner writes: “… The person
of the pierced heart – the heart that is
pierced with the rejection of God in the
world, pierced by failures, pierced by
personal experience of his own weakness
and the inability to do good… but at the
same time, the heart pierced with the deep
desire of love, pierced with deep trust as a
e are still under the spell of the lived through and practised. needed tool in the hand of the omnipotent
well organized ordination and Living as a servant of all, with a deep God.Wthe first mass of Fr Mbandama personal faith, the priest is a person able to The priest should be a person of a pierced
Michael sdb., which took place in Lusaka listen to everyone, regardless of the social heart because he has to lead the people to
on 12th and 13th June’10, respectively. It status and position of the people that come the very beginning of their ontological
has already been 5 years since we had a to him for counselling. He is a person that existence – to the bottom of their own
priestly ordination (Fr Oswald in is not concerned with money, titles and hearts. The priest cannot do this if he does
Chingola) so this is definitely a good and privileges. On the contrary, through his not know his own heart, - because one can
encouraging sign as well as a promising deep love for the crucified and risen Lord, only know his or her own heart if he or she
development in the province. Fr. Chota in believing and trusting that the real life is ready to accept the injury of his or her
his charismatic homily spoke of the comes from an earthly death and the power own heart, - the injury with the spear of
holiness and witness-martyrdom of the of the cross, he becomes the true and free an infinite love which conquers death and
priest. If the salesian – priest, has a real disciple of the Lord, able to serve and not brings life everlasting. Only then,
desire to become holy, some of the to be served and able to forgive. through the injury of your own heart, can
problems that we now face, would simply Forgiveness and mercy are very important one be able to get to know somebody’s else
disappear and they will no longer be valid. pillars of his ministry. He himself, has to heart… We can say that these
The desire for true holiness will help him to be able to forgive in order to grant characteristics of the priesthood, are
grow and follow the path of Don Bosco. It forgiveness to the people. Here, Rahner timeless and everlasting. I can say
will help him to get rid of selfishness, greed stresses very much that if the priest is not however, that these features are even more
and all other vices. On the other hand able to forgive, he should seriously important today than they there were in the
through the true desire for holiness his examine his function as a priest. The priest past…”
‘evangelising energy’ will not be directed would have to realise that sometimes he My dear, neo-presbyter Fr Michael and
towards himself but towards his brothers, will be rejected by the community. three jubilarians, why do I write this ‘sad’
and the young people. Sometime his words would have no power reflection? First of all, I do not want, either
However, together with the desire for to disperse the darkness of this world. He to frighten or to discourage you. On the
holiness, comes suffering. It is a mystery nevertheless, through his faith and contrary, I have chosen this as an
that, in this life, we will never understand, commitment, will be faithful and would encouragement to you and to us all, when
but at the some time we must realise that it trust in the final victory of God. He will we encounter difficulties in our Ministry,
is a daily reality. not measure the success of his mission, especially now when the ministerial
The words that Mamma Margarita said to using statistics and numbers.
Don Bosco after his Ordination came true
indeed.
Karl Rahner, the German Theologian, just
repeated in more flowery words, what
Mamma Margarita knew - through her
deep faith. He introduced the term – priest,
the person of the ‘pierced heart’.
What does it mean?
It means that sooner or later the priest
would have to realise that his priestly
ministry is inseparable from suffering. In
h i s e labora ted speech g iven a t
‘Canisianum’ in Innsbruck in 1966, he
described the role and qualities of the priest
in the modern world. Let me summarise
this to you.
Realising that he is doing the priesthood is under severe attack form the The Priest in a modern secular world,
Lord’s service, he will first of all, trust in mass-media. For you soon the celebrations cannot be only the social or religious office
God’s mercy and be aware that the and good times will be over. The normal, worker. Neither because of his position
salvation and conversion of the faithful, is daily life will begin with its good and bad and education can he claim the social
through God’s grace and not by his own times. I am sure you will enjoy your privileges. On the contrary, he has to be a
efforts. ministry and I wish you all the best, many religious servant of all with a deep faith
Therefore, the priest should be a ‘person of graces and successes in your evangelising commitment. He has to be, first of all, a
the pierced heart’ - the person whose work. You have to remember however, that person of deep faith, hope and charity,
4 Salesian NewslinkZMB Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
Fr Jozef Czerwinski sdb zmbprovincial@gmail.com
HEART
The Priest:
a person with the pierced
Fr. Michael Mbandama imparting his first blessings to the faithful.
Words of the Provincial
Woe to me
if I don’t preach
the Gospel
A Reflection on priesthood
5Salesian NewslinkZMBJune 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
sooner or later you will encounter difficulties
and suffering in your priestly ministry. What to
do then??? Run away – no, certainly not!!!
This is not a solution. Remember that you are ‘a
priest forever’, running away will not solve any
problems.
Rahner ends his article with the following
words: “…When the priest, sad and lonely,
realises that he has been rejected and laughed at,
abandoned by his friends, he has to remember
that this is exactly what had happen to Jesus. On
the cross of Jesus, is our victory, not in the
worldly success. In time of trouble and distress
let us turn to our master, to Him whose heart was
pierced with the lance, and ask Him for the grace
of strength and perseverance…”
Here I would add more. We as Salesians, we
have powerful helpers on our journey: Our
Lady, Don Bosco and our Salesian Saints. Let
us not forget this.
Dear Fr Michael,
You were ordained on Saturday the day dedicated to
our Lady and in June, the month dedicated to the
Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. I do not think that
this is a mere coincidence. On the contrary, this day
was chosen ‘by the Lord’ and is rich in significance
and symbolism, provided that we properly interpret it.
Whatever the outcome you have a powerful help and
guide – Our Lady Help of Christians.
She, the Help of Christians, with the pierced heart, the
heart full of suffering and at the same time, full of
compassion and love, carried her mission faithfully to
the end. She was also the inspiration and teacher of
Don Bosco. Let us turn to her and entrust our mission
to her. When we do this, we have the promise from
Don Bosco, that she will guide us, because she is the
faithful one, full of grace, always ready to help and
intercede for us.
May God Bless You.
J. C.
ope Benedict XVI is trying to lead "down in the tooth" himself.
the Church through this time of Then there were the remarks of Joe Ppurification. There is much that Scarborough, the former Florida
remains to be done. However, in Congressman and host of the show. He
addition to the understandable outrage intimated that he had been reluctant to
and concern so many are feeling, he is address the issue because he is a
also undergoing a terrible onslaught Southern Baptist. But then he did just
perpetrated by some who simply hate that, addressed the issue. He revealed
the Office he holds and the Catholic what was at best a woeful ly
Church.Let us hear and respond to his misinformed view of Catholic teaching
request for prayer: "Pray for me, that I on the role of the Pope or at worst, a
may not flee for fear of the wolves." His serious anti-Catholic streak. He went on
is a burden he cannot - he must not - bear a rant referring to the Pope and saying
alone. "no man is infallible." These comments
I awakened Easter Monday morning from Scarborough are reminiscent of an
fatigued. After serving the wonderful old anti-Catholic canard.
Liturgies of the Easter Triduum and No one claims the Pope is infallible in
hosting a houseful of family to celebrate everything he says or does. Catholic
the Resurrection, it was hard to get teaching is that the Lord meant what He
started, even with strong coffee. Just said when He promised to send the Holy
before Morning Prayer, I checked Spirit to guide His Church in all truth.
"Morning Joe", in order to catch the (See, e.g. John 16:13) Infallibility is a
headlines. protection for the Church which
The reporting concerning the sexual recognizes that the Risen Lord
a b u s e c r i s i s i n t h e C h u r c h continues His work through His
predominated, as it had throughout the Church, which is His Body.
entire Easter weekend. Two of the What the Catechism calls the
personalities on this show annoyed me "…charism of infallibility in matters of
with their ill informed comments. First, faith and morals" is entrusted to the
there was the derision spewed by Mike Church when she speaks on matters of
Barnacle from my own birthplace, faith and morals. (CCC #889 - 892) This
Boston, Massachusetts. He continued occurs when the Pope, the successor of
his tired rant against those whom he has Peter, in union with the Bishops
taken to disparagingly calling the "Old addresses a matter pertaining to faith
Men in Rome." and morals as the teaching office
His simplistic assessment of this tragic (Magisterium). Pope´s can and do make
situation - suggesting that the "old men mistakes in prudential matters.
in Rome" are somehow the cause of the However, we can count on the teaching
"problem" - is agenda driven. His office which they head, as the successor
positions on vital matters of Catholic of Peter, because the Church is the
faith, such as his failure to recognize the Lord's plan and continues His
fundamental human right to life, reveal redemptive mission.
he is a dissenting Catholic. The first My heart breaks for the victims of such
thing that went through my mind after evil committed at the hands of clergy. So
hearing his comment was that Mike too does the heart of this Pope. That is
himself was looking, to use an clear in both his words and his actions.
expression from my dear departed How quickly the Press has forgotten his
Bostonian Father´s lexicon, a little moving comments when he visited the
Church Today
BENEDICT’S
BURDEN
What the Catechism calls the "…charism of infallibility in matters of faith
and morals" is entrusted to the Church when she speaks on matters of
faith and morals.
By Keith A. Fournier
downloaded from www.catholic.org
Continues on page. 14
6 Salesian NewslinkZMB Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
working conditions, strong weather
conditions, wild animals (especially snakes
and scorpions), language and cultural
differences, as well as the life in the
community, yet none of them gives me
more problems that I can stand.
*****
* Since I have been in the country, I have
had many Ups and Downs. The place is
great and I am very happy to be here. The
first 5 months I was just working in the
Oratory, it is open from 2.00-5.30 PM, but
in the morning there was nothing to do
except for a few small jobs in the office; this
means in the morning I was most of the time
just staying indoors, learning a bit of the
language and chatting. However, because
of that I didn’t feel very helpful.
In January things changed when we got new
members in the community. They were
inserted into the whole structure of the
mission and so were we. We liked it, and
since then we are teaching some subjects in
various classes, when the teachers are not
present. I personally enjoy it a lot and it is a
good challenge for me!
I also help with a scholarship program. On
Fridays I am in a nearby a private primary
school, where I teach English in Standard 3
and 5. In this job, my colleague and I found
our feet. It’s just wonderful! In the
* Generally I am very happy with my afternoon I am in the Oratory. I like it, but
experience of Voluntary Service. I like the sometimes I just stay there, without doing
place where I stay and work. People there anything; it feels awful. Surely I do
are very friendly, nice and interesting. My something, but it is not satisfying. But I
workmates are also my friends and my realized, that it is also important just to be 1).- This is my first experience in voluntary
work gives me a lot of happiness, especially with the young people, to hear their stories service. In Salesian Voluntary Service I
since my field of work goes in line with my and to laugh with them. We also try to do have been here since October 2009 so this
specialisation. It is my first time to stay in a something on our free Monday. So we go to means I am a fresh volunteer who still has a
community which is not my family, so it is visit past students in their villages, go to lot to learn. I have chosen to participate in
also a new experience for me. Fortunately town and experience life in this wonderful the meeting on Salesian Voluntary Service
there have been no major problems so far African country.because I wanted help others and challenge
and I hope there won’t be any. With regard myself. My contract is very clear and I don’t
to my contract, there is no reason for me to With regard to my contract, I can say that it see any problems so I think that the contract
complain about it because I can say that it is is written quite clearly what my duties are is still good and I hope it will continue like
being implemented well. During my and what my involvement in the centre is this, and I hope it brings more benefits for th
formation back home I was told by many supposed to be. I have no problems. community. In the community we have
people (especially by volunteers who came However, at times I find that I have nothing some problems and challenges but with
back from Africa) to be prepared for to do, so then I try to engage in things that these problems we still can live...
anything, so I was. And I still am ;-) are beyond my contract.
Some of the challenges I face are: hard *****
Meeting of
The CHALLENGE of living and working
TOGETHER
Fr. Javier Antonio Barrientos zmbyouthd@zmb.co.zmYouth Ministry
Testimonies
The Youth Department organised a meeting for Volunteers who are
working in ZMB. All volunteers from ZMB gathered at the Provincial
house in Lusaka from the 26 - 29 March 2010.
The meeting provided a warm atmosphere to help with the reflection
and ongoing formation of the young volunteers who annually come to
the province. During those days of sharing, the volunteers were able to
share their experiences in the various communities of ZMB, as well as
evaluating the work they carry out.
Some of the testimonies are now shared in the following lines with the
purpose of hearing first hand what are the views and feelings of these
young people who generously come to help in our mission among the
young. Names and places have been purposely omitted.
Testimonies
Young they are but to be men and women of
tomorrow. Youth is a treasure.
Uncertainty fills them with sorrow. To be loved without measure.
Without much hope for a better morrow. With no strings attached.
Save a heart detached.
Access to justice denied. There is nowhere perfect love.
We must decide.
Who must provide? In every young person there is potential.
We must pass on the torch.
Tomorrow’s future.
In which the young will feature. Faith as the treasure.
Who must be teacher? That is ever ancient and ever new.
That they may not yield to the seduction.
We seem to think. Of egoistic or hedonistic philosophies.
Fashion they like. To build a better world than their elders.
Church they dislike. The strength and charm of youth.
A tomorrow for the history of today.
The Church must ask them questions. A joy of high quality.
And they should ask questions. And a fruitful promise.
And that way we will bring the young to Like a red rose.
Church. Newly sprung in June.
And the Church to the young. Like a melody.
Sweetly played in tune.
Guides of young minds and characters. From the violin of God.
With truth to illumine. Without breaking a string.
Light of the human intellect.
7Salesian NewslinkZMBJune 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
that I am alone with my Challenges
colleague and nobody In the first 6 month sometimes I had the feeling, that I am not
else, all my friends are needed, because I hardly did anything. I was present in the Oratory,
far away back home. helped to handle the Youth and played with kids, but if I hadn’t
Communication with been there, it wouldn’t make a difference either.
home is based on the Sometimes I feel, that it is hard for the community to understand us
internet (we are happy, (because of the language and also just to understand our views).
it is working well!!!) In my communication with the Salesians: it would be good, if they
Sometimes I am so would freely and frankly tell me their expectations concerning
t i r e d o f b e i n g a what we should do, how we
foreigner because should participate in the
everyone points it out community life, etc... and also
as I walk on the streets, when we are doing something
when I go to the market wrong, not forgetting also
and all the children are shouting at me, but I simply just wanted to when they enjoy what we are
be not seen, so as to feel ‘normal’.doing.
On the personal level, I feel
Suggestions for the future
We would like to have the house for volunteers; if possible!
Because it gives us a bit of freedom, and we can participate in the
community life but we would like also to have our own place. We
like to cook for ourselves (we get some money to buy food), but
sometimes we also enjoy to go for supper to the Salesians.
Visa and work permit cost a lot of money and takes lots of time;
maybe it is possible to do this in advance.
Youth Ministry
Young “It’s enough that you are young
for me to love you...”
(don Bosco)
8 Salesian NewslinkZMB Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
Cl. Joackim Mzanywa mzanywasdb@yahoo.comConfreres in East Africa
t is a reality in today’s world that the media is creating a new
culture. Media has great influence over our behaviour
particularly on young people. It is unbelievable to know how I Unfortunately young people innocently have taken the media as
much effort and resources are involved, not counting the authoritative without realizing that the same can be employed to
people behind. We ought to say, ‘well done!’ to those who are peddle unwholesome issues. We have involved ourselves too
exploring the technology and its theories so that we can have the much in entertainment up to the point of losing contact with our
best quality of media today. Unfortunately, the media and its reality and our fact of life. Today we are witnessing more and more
technology can also be a source of harm to our morals especially social violence and promiscuity, yet we are unwillingly exalting
among the youth whose character and conscience is quite fragile. them. And then we harvest what we have sown.
Media in some of its forms such as music, films and pornographic The government, parents and teachers need to come in and educate
literature are in a great demand and surely have a big impact on the youth on how to use the Media and help them become aware of
people’s minds. Some programs offered on television and video the negative influence it might have on them. Parents should not
cassettes showing violence, horror or permissiveness have a strong shy away from discussing these matters with their children. It is
influence on the youth today. Whether we like it or not risky to leave things to chance. Other forces are on standby to seize
pornography and violence lure and pollute our minds. We should such an opportunity. The more we counsel the youth the more I
be aware that what we watch frequently enters our subconscious become convinced that there is no greater force that can influence
and takes the cues and tells us to act out what we see. It’s all about, society than the parents, that is if they take their responsibility
“garbage in and garbage out.” I wonder sometimes with the seriously. It is the duty of everyone, young and old, black and
adverts on the television why should companies pay millions of white, to see that the youth of today are using the media with
dollars? I don’t know whether today’s people assess the media critical minds.
critically. Indeed media and youth are at the cross roads.
Young people have nowadays easier access to
the Media; there is less control by the parents
but at the same time they are most vulnerable
to its influence.
Cl. Chifundo Lihoma chifundolihoma@yahoo.comThinking Point
carrying their sheaves,
they come back, they come back full of joy...
It was indeed after many a sleepless night spent in studying
Philosophy and Education that the three managed to complete their
education with flying colours.
The graduation ceremony started with Mass. The main celebrant,
who was also the master of ceremonies was Fr. Eustace Siame,
former Dean of the same College. In both his speech and homily he
urged the students to keep on updating themselves. Of course he
has a good rhetoric, however it is not to flatter anyone nor an empty
rhetoric what he was saying made a great deal of sense. And he was
speaking from experience since he has spent a good part of his life
in formation circles, both as a student (cleric) and as a priest.
All who gave speeches on this day had words to congratulate and
thank those who made it possible for them to achieve their goal.
Many thanks went to the Rector, Dean of Studies and lecturers, the
graduates and their fellow students, the non-teaching stuff, the
litany of gratitude went on and on. Above all, through the Eucharist
(thanksgiving), gratitude was shown most especially to God. The
brothers and sisters who graduated on this day, were, no doubt,
ready to test the theory they had learnt, and this is being done in the he 22nd of May 2010 was a memorable day for the third
laboratory of life, I mean in their various apostolates in different years at Don Bosco Seminary Moshi after three years of
places.Tserious study. Moshi is a town in the Kilimanjaro region, it
In a nutshell this day, it was a wonderful day, an opportunity for is at the foot of the great snow capped mountain: Kilimanjaro. It s
people to say, hongera (congratulations) to the graduates. And a there that three clerics from ZMB, John Musonda, Christopher
platform for the graduates to say asante (thank you) to all who had Mukuka and Immanuel Nkukumila, spent three years studying
helped them reach where they are. Since the 90s Moshi has Philosophy and Education. And the day they graduated, it was all
produced great Salesians and is still producing them. This legacy is smiles. On this day I remembered the words of the psalmist:
enshrined in our motto, “The truth will set you free.”They go out they go out, full of tears,
XVI GRADUATION CEREMONY
Don Bosco College
9Salesian NewslinkZMBJune 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
News from ZMB
VI PROVINCIAL CHAPTER
Lusaka (Zambia) 14/04/2010.-
LUFUBU 2010 EASTER CELEBRATIONS
Lufubu (Zambia) 1-5 April 2010.-
MEETING OF THE PROVINCIAL ECONOMER WITH
ZMB ADMINISTRATORS
Lusaka (Zambia) 11-12/05/2010
The VI Provincial Chapter of
ZMB which started on 7 April 2010 has come to an end. The
Salesians of the Vice Province of ZMB who took part in the
meeting expressed their joy and optimism for the outcome of the
provincial chapter. Young people from various
26 Confreres coming from the 13 communities of ZMB took part parts of Zambia & Zimbabwe gathered at the annual youth camp
in this important meeting for the animation of the province. The which is organised by the department of youth ministry of ZMB.
participants arrived a day before the beginning of the meeting. The The occasion of the youth gathering was to prepare (through
preparatory commission offered to all the participants the working catechesis) young people to celebrate in a deeper way the
document which was a very powerful tool for the evaluation of the mysteries of Holy Week and Easter. Youngsters from Zambia and
implementation of the General Chapter 26 to the reality of Zambia, Zimbabwe were also accompanied in the journey of faith by a team
Zimbabwe, Namibia and Malawi.of Polish Volunteers from Warsaw mission procure. The
participants came from the communities of Chawama (SDB), City
of Hope (FMA), Thorn Park (FMA), Kabwe (SDB), Mansa
(FMA), Kazembe (SDB) and Lufubu (SDB). The organisation of
the event was facilitated by the provincial youth delegates of both
Salesians of Don Bosco and Daughters of Mary Help of Christians.
Last year’s festival was hosted at the provincial house in Lusaka;
this year’s festival took place in Lufubu, approximately 1000 km
north of the capital city Lusaka in Zambia. The first delegations to
arrive were those of City of Hope, Chawama and Kabwe in a
combined effort. Their arrival was on Wednesday 1 April, while
the rest of delegations arrived the following day in the afternoon.
The first catechesis was facilitated by Sister Godelive FMA of
Mansa community, who spoke on the mystery of the Eucharist. On
Friday, Deacon Christopher Kunda spoke on the ‘Death of Christ’
while Fr Javier A. Barrientos had the catechesis of Saturday on
From the 7 to the 13 in the evening all the chapter members
‘Created on God’s image’. On the Easter Vigil, Fr Czeslaw
committed themselves to prayers and the reflection on the working
Lenczuk gave the last catechesis on the ‘Resurrection of Christ.’
document and the pressing matters of the province. The chapter
The participation of the youngsters in the Paschal Triduum was
members updated the Provincial Directory in some points
remarkable; their interventions during the catechesis were very
concerning Initial Formation, Finances and Youth Ministry.
encouraging and showed their interest in learning more about their
The provincial chapter ended with the solemn Eucharist which was
faith. In the liturgy of Holy Thursday, which was followed by the
presided by the Provincial of ZMB Fr. Jozef Czerwinski; he was
exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, young people showed their
accompanied by Fr Bruno Zamberlan who celebrates 50 years of
deep convictions and respect for the presence of Jesus in the
religious life and Fr. Andrzej Reut and Fr. Czeslaw Lenczuk who
Blessed Sacrament.
celebrate 25 years of religious life respectively.
After mass, the provincial thanked the moderator of the chapter Fr.
Eustace Siame for his splendid work as well as the secretaries Cl.
Simbarashe Muza and Cl.Clement Mutamba who showed
dedication and hard work in recording the matters and issues
brought during the chapter.
.- The meeting of economers
and administrators of ZMB communities was facilitated by Fr.
Dennis Higgins, provincial economer of ZMB. The meeting was
held at the provincial house in Lusaka. Economers from most
ZMB communities turned up for the event, which aimed at coming On Friday, the programme ran through a more mournful mood and
up with a common understanding of finances and reporting in the the young participants were amazing in their capacity to keep
province. Fr. Dennis who co-ordinated the meeting expressed his silence and desire to join themselves spiritually to the sorrows of
wish of managing the accounts in the province in a more consistent the Lord Jesus.
and systematic manner, which will eventually enable the province The Easter Camp ended on a very joyful note with the celebration
to report to the General House with a unified system.of the Easter Vigil and the mass on Easter Sunday. After all the
celebrations, the team of animators gathered the young people for a
Fr. Joseph Czerwinski, the provincial of ZMB, in his opening general evaluation, after which the delegation from Mansa left for
speech mentioned that ‘there have been many attempts to unify the Chimese. The following day the rest of delegations travelled back
way accounts are presented, even to the extent of trying to use a to their communities.
April 2010
10 Salesian NewslinkZMB Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
ZMB News
common accounting software, but so far the efforts have not paid Brazaville. The meeting of secretaries was last celebrated in
off, nevertheless there is the will to work it out and try to use Kenya in the year 2004.
common categories that will ease the process of presenting the At the end of the meeting, Fr. Marian travelled to the south to visit
monthly and annual reports.’ Victoria Falls and one of the game parks of Zambia.
Fr. Tresphord Chisanga has
successfully completed his studies at
Berkeley University in California. Fr.
Tresphord graduated on Saturday 22
along with many other students. He Part of the meeting was also dedicated to study the articles of the
has done a two year course on Constitutions that deal with the vow of poverty as well as what is
Counselling and Psychology. laid down in the Provincial Directory and the Organic Provincial
Plan.
Towards the end of the day, Fr. Leszek Aksamit, the director of the
Provincial Development Office (PDO) briefed the participants on
issues concerning the office of the PDO and its networking with
the provincial economer.
Economers and administrators of the communities expressed their
satisfaction on the presentation of Fr. Dennis as well as the
approach given to the financial matters in the province.
The Secretary of the General
Council Fr Marian Stempel SDB facilitated the meeting of
Provincial Secretaries of Africa at the provincial house of ZMB
Province. The meeting started on Monday 26 April and ended on
Friday 30.
Fr Marian annually conducts such meetings in order to help
provincial secretaries worldwide to get acquainted with their job
in order to pass on important information on the issues of the
Congregation. Twelve of the thirteen provincial secretaries of
Africa managed to come to Lusaka to attend the meeting. They
arrived from Angola, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, South Africa,
Mozambique, Tchad, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Congo D.R and Congo
.- The Provincial Vicar of ZMB Fr.
Czeslaw Lenczuk met with the confreres of ZMB in initial
formation who had just arrived from Moshi after completing their
year of studies in Tanzania.
GRADUATION OF FR. TRESPHORD CHISANGA
Berkeley (USA) 22/05/2010.-
MEETING OF PROVINCIAL SECRETARIES OF AFRICA
(CIVAM)
Lusaka (Zambia) 26-30/04/2010.-
MEETING OF CONFRERES FROM MOSHI WITH THE
PROVINCIAL VICAR
Lusaka (Zambia) 27/05/2010
FEAST OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS – 2010
Lilongwe (Malawi) 24/5/2010.-
On the 24 of May millions of people worldwide come together to
celebrate the Feast of Mary Help of Christians. The Salesian
Family, Staff and Students of Don Bosco Youth Technical College
– Lilongwe-Malawi celebrated this feast. The celebration started
with Mass led by the Provincial (Fr. Joseph Czerwinski) alongside
Fr. Kim and Fr. Paul and later on students and staff led by their
Principal (Bro. Walter) had a dancing competition, cultural
activities and sports.
May 2010
11Salesian NewslinkZMBJune 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
graduation ceremony) and in the end one could see the satisfaction
of the sisters who learnt a new skill for the youth ministry. It was
also amusing to see how in the whole process of learning and
exercising the four sisters also got stains of paint in their habits...
perhaps this is something to remember the of the two-day-
workshop.
.- Michael Mbandama, a Salesian
from Zambia, has been ordained to the priesthood along with 7
other deacons in a ceremony which took place at the Cathedral of
the Child Jesus in Lusaka. The Archbishop of Lusaka Telephord
Mpundu ordained the 8 young men (7 from the diocese and 1 from The meeting was scheduled well in advance by the formation
the Salesians of Don Bosco) in a religious ceremony which was commission, and Fr Czeslaw travelled 1000 kilometres from his
well attended by priests, religious sisters and people from various community in Lufubu in order to meet with the confreres as they
parishes of Lusaka as well as young people from Bauleni parish prepare themselves for their holidays and their community
where Michael spent most of his ministry as deacon.experience in the four ZMB countries.
The ordination ceremony started at 9am and it lasted until The confreres in initial formation arrived at the provincial house
12:45pm, although long, the ceremony was well prepared and on Wednesday 26 May at 9:00 pm after a successful two-day trip
those who conducted it took care of every possible detail. The from Moshi to Lusaka. Their journey started in Moshi (Tanzania).
music, decoration, organisation of choirs and various people’s After a stopover at Mafinga (Tanzania) the confreres arrived safe
interventions were all well prepared.and sound at the provincial house where Fr. Leszek Aksamit had
During his homily Archbishop Telesphord reminded the deacons welcomed them with a nice meal which refreshed them after their
(now newly ordained priests) of their duties towards God and the two-day-journey.
people of God, which now they are to minister. The 8 deacons knelt
while listening to the Archbishop’s homily; it was a very peculiar
way to paying attention to the Shepherd of the archdiocese of
Lusaka.
Towards the end of the ceremony the newly ordained priests were
told of their new obediences and the parishes where they will have
to report to after their short holidays.
In the case of Fr. Michael Mbandama SDB, it will be the provincial
of ZMB who will communicate his new obedience.
.- A workshop on the
basics of Screen Printing was conducted at the provincial house for
some Salesian Sisters (FMA) who are preparing the youth rally in
Mansa for the month of August. The workshop aimed at helping
the Salesian Sisters to prepare souvenirs for the young people that
will attend the August youth gathering.
Sr. Chanda FMA together with Sr. Modesta from Thorn Park
community, Sr. Annet from Mansa and Sr. Caroline from City of
Hope (Lusaka) met with Fr. Antonio SDB who prepared a quick
course on screen printing. The workshop started at 9:00 am and
ended in the evening at 5:30 pm. The workshop went through the
different steps in the industry of screen printing, from the
On the 13th of June
2010 there was rejoicing as we gathered to celebrate the first mass
of Fr Michael Mbandama. It was indeed a great feast because on
the same occasion Frs Tresphord Chisanga; Vincent Tembo; John
Bosco Mulenga (in absentia); and Waldermar Molenda were also
celebrating their 10thanniversary of priesthood. As if this is not
enough reason to celebrate, we also celebrated the feast of St
Mathias Mulumba (Ugandan martyr) the patron saint of the
Bauleni parish. All who were present would agree with me that it
preparation of the templates to the actual printing. was a great feast and we had many reasons to rejoice and be glad.
The morning sessions proved to be fruitful when in the afternoon The mass started at 8:30am with a beautiful procession, comprised
the sisters were able to develop the templates and eventually of the flower girls (stellas), Babuomba (traditional dancers), altar
started printing some t-shirts for the forthcoming youth gathering servers, and priests. The Babuomba did not seem to check their
in Mansa. The t-shirts had the face of Jesus and the slogan: ‘Sir, we clocks as they danced, but no one seemed to mind; all the people
want so see Jesus’. were there to celebrate. Before the mass there was a beautiful and
The conclusion of the workshop was quite simple (there was no meaningful drama on the Uganda martyrs performed by the
PRIESTLY ORDINATION
Lusaka (Zambia) 12/06/2010
SCREEN PRINT WORKSHOP IN LUSAKA
Chawama – Lusaka (Zambia) 08/06/2010
FIRST MASS OF FR. MICHAEL MBANDAMA SDB
Bauleni – Lusaka (Zambia) 13/06/2010.-
News from ZMB
June 2010
12 Salesian NewslinkZMB Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
ZMB News
The last building of the
old Makeni Formation House has been demolished on the early
hours of Saturda 12 June 2010.
The building which used to be the sitting room of the community as
well as the guest house for the province, after many years of service
has been knocked down by a bulldozer from MEL Company.
The place of the old building will be utilised for the construction of
the new church for the formation community, according to the
drawings of the new complex.
parishioners of Bauleni. It left all of us in stitches but one cannot
but remember the message(s) in the play. Following the play were
the warm words of welcome from the parish priest Fr Bruno who
then invited the main celebrant the newly ordained Fr Mbandama,
to begin the mass.
Fr Michael begun his first mass accompanied by ululation and
shouts of joy. To brighten up an already bright day, the singing was
so beautiful, indeed “twice a prayer”. The Bible procession was
done in the Kuomboka style. The Bible was brought in a boat with
people peddling the air on both sides of the boat. One could draw a
lot of meanings from this procession. Still in the liturgy of the
word, the homily given by Fr Tresford Chota, was good and just the
right one for the occasion, he really elaborated on the meaning of
being a martyr and what the vocation of a priest means. Four of the six
After the homily all the different groups came forward bringing containers which are carrying the roof of the new novitiate are now
their offerings to the newly ordained priest. People in their lying on the grounds of the Salesian novitiate in Makeni. The roof
traditional attires brought various kinds of gifts for Fr Michael who which came all the way from Italy was donated by
gladly welcomed all. Turin, under the care of Fr. Pier Luigi Zuffetti SDB. The roof
When mass was over, all the participants were invited to join in for
lunch.
The province has
recently finished setting up the tomb stones for our late confreres
Fr. Joseph Ojcziech, Fr. Joseph Gotter and Fr. Oscar Zamora who
are buried in Kasisi. The tomb stones were designed according to
what most confreres in the province suggested and will remain the
pattern for the future.They are monuments of gratitude to those
who lived and worked in ZMB making the Salesian Charism a
reality on this side of Africa.
is pre-fabricated and contains already insulation and ceiling.
The Mission procure of Turin has, thus, shown once again their
care and generosity towards the ZMB province in its efforts to put
up a new structure for this important phase of initial formation.
This is a substantial help towards what concerns the construction
of the novitiate which is already in its third year.
The province thanks wholeheartedly Fr. Pier Luigi and all the
generous benefactors of Missioni Don Bosco for their great help
and generosity.
DEMOLITION OF THE LAST STANDING BUILDING
OF THE OLD MAKENI - FORMATION HOUSE
Makeni - Lusaka (Zambia) 12/06/2010.-
ARRIVAL OF THE ROOF FOR THE NEW NOVITIATE
Makeni - Lusaka (Zambia) 25/06/2010.-
TOMB STONES FOR DECEASED SALESIANS OF ZMB
Kasisi – Lusaka (Zambia) 20/06/2010.-
Missioni Don
Bosco
For more photos and stories on ZMB log on to:
http://www.salesianszmb.org/
13Salesian NewslinkZMBJune 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
apartment with four en-suite bedrooms, which was also blessed by
the Bishop, with the students continuing with their superb singing
in the background. The Bishop and the nuns accompanying him
also sang a similar song in their native Spanish much to the delight
of the students and the Rector.
A bounty meal there followed as a wide ranging and appetizing
assortment of foods was served for lunch with all present having
plenty to eat and there was more than enough as witnessed by the
amount of food left untouched.
In a show of their appreciation of the knowledge they are
gathering, the Clothing Technology students paraded their self
designed outfits much to the liking of the visiting guests. They later
presented the Bishop with an exclusive DBTC designed shirt,
which would leave even the Pierre Cardin designers green with
on Bosco Hwange has continued to receive God’s envy.
blessings through the intercession of Mary Help of It is unfortunate that all good things come to an end and such was DChristians. As honor and respect to our lady, the the case with this marvelous day as it came to an end with the final
community of Hwange kept the traditional feast of our lady. This blessing from the bishop and wise words from the Rector. The
year, the 24th of May, the day of commemorating the patroness students are more than grateful for the work being done by the
saint of the ZMB province; Mary help of Christians was a Salesian community in our beloved Hwange community.
marvelous and joyful day as the Salesian family of Hwange
witnessed a step forward in the growth of the institution. It all
began with a solemn Holy Eucharistic celebration presided over by
His Lordship Bishop Albert Serrano at the Technical College with
Fr. Chota co-celebrating. In his homily he emphasized the
importance of Mary in the Catholic Church as she is the mother of
all races and nations. The college students led the singing with their
melodious voices.
The highlight of the day was the blessing of the new classroom
block adjacent to the multi-purpose hall. The students continued
the singing as the Bishop went about blessing the classrooms. A
total of five classrooms were blessed. One of the classrooms was
later handed over to the oratory team led by Br. Simba. The room
has been decorated to their specifications and needs. The students
could not hold back their ecstatic joy of being the first intake to
make use of the “brand new” classrooms.
The procession then procceded to the new volunteers’ house, an
Salesians - ZimbabweCl. Simbarashe Muza SDB simbasdb@yahoo.com
Blessing of the New Classrooms
The Salesian Community of Hwange continues to
develop the premises of Don Bosco College in
Hwange. Despite the difficult situation which the
country goes through, no efforts are spared to offer
young people quality education in a suitable
environment.
Greetings from HWANGE...
14 Salesian NewslinkZMB Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
United States concerning clergy abuse. needed if the Church is to preach more particularly evil and constitutes a physical
The handling of such matters in the United effectively the Gospel of Jesus Christ in all and spiritual plundering.
States under his watch has led to major its liberating force. Now you must ensure There have been other times in the history
overhaul in every Diocese, every seminary that where sin increased, grace will all the of the Church when the clergy have been
and every religious house. more abound (cf. Rom 5:20). So much corrupted. God seems to begin His Spring
His recent summoning of all of the Bishops pain, so much sorrow must lead to a holier cleaning in His own house. Perhaps, as the
of Ireland to Rome to render an account for priesthood, a holier episcopate, and a Apostle Peter wrote to the Church of the
the abuse which occurred years ago in that holier Church" first millennium during another great
country similarly demonstrated his Truth is the greatest antidote to the poison missionary age: "… the time has come for
determination to root out this evil. His of sin. Light is the way to expose the judgment to begin with the House of God."
pastoral letter to all of the faithful of darkness. The evidence concerning clergy (1 Peter 4:17) The perpetrators of these
Ireland concerning this evil was who have committed egregious sins and abuses must be stopped. They must face
straightforward and strong . criminal acts against children demand a the consequences of their acts. The victims
It was Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, serving strong response. They also call for an must be helped with healing and
as the Prefect of the Congregation for the honest assessment of the condition of our restitution.
Doctrine of the Faith who took such a beloved Church. The "culture of death" has After all, we believe that every man,
strong stance in response to the allegations crept into the sanctuary. At the foundation woman and child ever created is called to
against the now deceased founder of the of the "culture of death" is a failure to live in the Church. She is to be the home of
Legion of Christ. Since assuming the Chair respect the dignity of every human person the whole human race. We need to make
of Peter he has implemented a series of created in the Image of God. People are the Church a place of safety where all men,
actions exposing the Rev. Marcial Maciel. becoming commodities to be used and women and children can truly find
A Commission just concluded their abused. redemption and discover the fullness of
thorough investigation of the now proven Finally, there is the "third rail" of the crisis. their destiny in Jesus Christ. The Church
perverse lifestyle, sins and evil acts of the Many of the incidents being reported must be purified so that she can more
founder. Strong remedial action is soon to among the small minority of clergy who effectively rise to the challenge of her
be announced. have sinned against their vowed celibacy, missionary task in this Third Christian
Attempts to associate Pope Benedict XVI committed evil and criminal acts and Millennium.
with the current crisis - or to intimate that caused the current crisis, involve That means that her clergy (Priests,
he knowingly failed to act – have all been homosexual acts. In many instances, the Bishops and Deacons) must all be "holy"
rebutted. Yet, efforts to use this horrid activities in which they engaged constitute as the Lord Himself is holy. If the Church is
crisis to attack him and the Catholic "pederasty", a term derived from an going to lead this contemporary age out of
Church continue. I remember his first ancient Greek word that referred to sexual this contemporary "Culture of Death", she
sermon at the first Mass of his pontificate. relationships between men and boys. must truly be a "Culture of Life" and a
His request for our prayer now seems The on civilization of love. Nothing less will do.
almost prophetic: homosexuality is clear, compassionate, Pope Benedict XVI is trying to lead the
"My dear friends – at this moment I can and true. Homosexual "orientation" is Church through this time of purification.
only say: pray for me, that I may learn to "disordered". However, homosexual There is much that remains to be done.
love the Lord more and more. Pray for me, temptation, like every other sexual However, in addition to the understandable
that I may learn to love his flock more and temptation, is not, of itself, sin. How one outrage and concern so many are feeling,
more – in other words, you, the holy responds to temptation is what matters. he is now undergoing a terrible onslaught
Church, each one of you and all of you Grace is available to overcome temptation. perpetrated by some who simply hate the
together. Pray for me, that I may not flee Authentic outreaches to people with Office he holds and the Catholic Church.
for fear of the wolves. Let us pray for one homosexual temptations, like Let us hear and respond to his request for
another, that the Lord will carry us and that are reaching out to help. prayer: "Pray for me, that I may not flee for
we will learn to carry one another. [Pope Homosexual sexual acts are always sinful. fear of the wolves." His is a burden he
Benedict XVI, 24 April, 2005] " They amount to a disordered "use" of the cannot - he must not - bear alone. Together,
The words were reminiscent of the words body of another for disordered, self let us show him that we have learned the
of John Paul II on April 23, 2002 when he centered "gratification." They also meaning of his request that we "carry one
addressed this crisis: "We must be perpetuate the "culture of death". Such another.”
confident that this time of trial will bring a sinful sexual activity, when forced on a
purification of the entire Catholic child by one in a position of power, and in A Purification of the Church is
community, a purification that is urgently particular by a member of the Clergy, is Underway. Pray for our Pope.
teaching of the Catholic Church
"Courage"
Church Today By Keith A. Fournier from www.catholic.org
Continues from page. 5
Tu es Petrus ...
Jesus’ words to Peter
resound today in the Church reaffirming all
that the powers of the underworld
will not hold out against it...
Seminary director
Joseph Cafasso was born in Castelnuovo d'Asti in
1811. Son of small land owners, he was the third
of four children. From when he was very young he
was
regarded him as a young saint. He completed
his theological studies at the seminary in Chieri
and in 1833 was ordained priest. Four months
later he went to the Convitto Ecclesiastico, a
residential Pastoral Institute for putting the
finishing touches to his priestly and pastoral
formation. He would remain involved there for the
rest of his life, eventually becoming its Rector.
Spiritual
director
At the Convitto
the spirituality of St.
Ignatius
reigned supreme as well as the theological and
pastoral orientations of St.
Alphonsus Maria
Liguori. Teaching was given much attention and
was aimed at forming good confessors and
capable preachers. Joseph studied and gained a
deeper understanding of the spirituality of St
Francis de Sales, which he then passed on to one
student in particular: John Bosco. Cafasso, his
spiritual director from 1841 to 1860, contributed
to forming and guiding Don Bosco's spirituality.
Typical of his teaching was his appreciation of daily
duty as a way to holiness. As the Founder of the
Salesian also testified: "the extraordinary virtue of
Cafasso was his marvelously
faithful and
consistent practice of ordinary virtues"
Apostolate to the poor:
Having
the poor
at heart, he visited and also
financially supported those who were poorest,
bringing them the consolation that came from his
priestly ministry. His apostolate also consisted in
spiritual accompaniment of prisoners and those
condemned to death, to the point where he was
defined as the prisoners' priest. Prudent and
Feastday: June 23
This year
the feast
day
of St Joseph Cafasso happens to be the
150th
anniversary of his death. That means he died just six
months after the foundation of the Salesian Congregation. It
was an undertaking which
Don
Bosco must surely have
discussed at
length with him, not only on the practicalities
of
the project, but more importantly on discerning God’s will in
the foundation of a new Congregation.
It
was Joseph Cafasso who was
initially
instrumental
in
directing Don Bosco in working
with youth in difficulty, who
continued to direct him
in his weekly confession, who
advised
him
to take up lodgings with
Don Borel at the Refuge,
who worked closely with him in the foundation of the
Oratory, giving him financial support and convincing others
to fund his charitable foundation and,
when necessary,
to
defend him from critics even from the clergy.
There is no doubt that the three years that Don Bosco
spent at the Convitto
were crucial. As Don Ceria testifies, they
‘contributed powerfully to mould his spirit in a definitive
manner’. After six years of speculative theology isolated from
reality in a seminary, insertion into the active apostolate was
not easy. Cafasso exposed the young priests to the pastoral
realities of a city fast becoming industrialized,
and then
helped them in their theological reflection
on their
experience
in a way that this becomes for them the crucial
element in their discernment. In reading the Memoirs
one
can see the impact that Don Bosco’s visit to the prisons left
on him and the very important conclusion this led him to:
"Who knows?" I thought to myself, "if these youngsters had
a friend outside who would take care of them, help them,
teach
them religion on feast days.
Who knows but they
could be steered away from ruin?"
With Fr Cafasso’s
encour-
agement and inspiration I began to work out in my mind
how to put the idea into practice…
This was the seed that
germinated into
the Oratory and eventually into the
Congregation and Salesian Family.
Knowing the positive impact that the Convitto
has had on
don
Bosco, it does make one reflect on whether we
offer a
similar opportunity
to our young Salesians. Perhaps this is the
missing link in our formation process: a year specifically
designed for our Deacons and Young Priests in which they
have a
practical
pastoral
experience
on which they are helped
to reflect in the light of Pastoral Theology and the insights
gained from human sciences.
It would be worthwhile
to invest in such an initiative.
Union with God amidst so much business.
–
June
2010
Ongoing Formation
-
St Joseph Cafasso
Newsletter as an aid for the animation of Communities and Confreres.
15Salesian NewslinkZMBJune 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
reserved, a spiritual master, he was spiritual director of priests, lay people,
politicians, founders.
Pearl of the Italian clergy
Pio XI called him the pearl of the Italian clergy. Fr Cafasso also supported
Don Bosco and the Salesian Congregation in material ways from its very
beginnings. After a short illness he died at just 49 years of age on 23 June
1860. He was beatified in 1925 and canonised by Pius XII in 1947, who
recognised him as a "model of
priestly life, father of the poor, consoler of
the sick, support for prisoners, saviour of the condemned". The same Pope,
in his encyclical Menti Nostrae
proposed him as a model for priests.
A Pope ’s Appreciation
68.
Satisfaction with Spiritual
Directors
We desire likewise, in
this paternal exhortation of Ours,
to give special mention to those
priests who, in humility and
burning charity, labor prudently
for the sanctification of their
brother-priests as counselors,
confessors, or spiritual directors.
The incalculable good they render
the Church remains hidden for the
greater part, but it will one day be
revealed in the glory of God's
kingdom.
69. The Example of St.
Giuseppe Cafasso
Not many
years ago, with great satisfaction,
We decreed the honors of
the
altar to the Turinese priest,
Giuseppe Cafasso who, as you
know, in a most difficult period,
was the wise and holy spiritual
guide of not a few priests whom
he helped to progress in virtue
and whose sacred ministry he
rendered particularly fruitful. We
are fully confident that, through
his powerful patronage, our Divine
Redeemer will raise up many
priests of like sanctity who will
bring themselves and their
brethren in the ministry to such a
height of perfection in their lives
that the faithful, admiring their
example, will feel themselves
moved spontaneously to imitate it.
Menti Nostrae – Pius XII - 1950
At the School of Cafasso
This extract from the book of Don Ceria Don Bosco Con Dio,
[Chapters 4&7] shows
the crucial role that Don Cafasso
played in
the discernment
of Don Bosco’s vocation and in recognizing
the true
spiritual
dimension of his initiatives.
Don Bosco could not have had a better preparation for his
mission as a zealous apostle of the young. The three years
that he spent there contributed powerfully to mould his spirit in
a definitive manner. Providence placed him in the hands of that
saintly teacher of priestly souls, and the graces he received
there bore much fruit.
At the school of Cafasso he eagerly imbibed that spirit
of prayer which he had already acquired intuitively in spite of
the prevailing fashion of the times he lived in, prayer based on
“unlimited trust in the goodness and loving-kindness of God
towards us”. From Cafasso’s conferences on theology and his
spiritual direction, he learnt how to hear confessions “with
prayerfulness, knowledge and prudence”. In the lessons on
sacred eloquence he heard emphasized that a priest does not
go into the pulpit to show off, but “to preach on observance of
the divine commandments, prayer, devotion to Our Lady,
frequent reception of the sacraments, avoidance of idleness,
fleeing from bad companions and occasions of sin, charity
towards one’s neighbour, patience in affliction, and he learned
never to end a sermon without reference to the eternal truths.”
He accompanied Cafasso in
offering religious
assistance to prisoners and took part with him in retreats,
growing in fervour as he prepared for his apostolic work. Even
in their daily conversations, he heard and took on board wise
recommendations on “how to live in society, to deal with the
world without becoming a slave of the world, to become true
priests armed with the necessary virtues, ministers capable of
giving to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what
belongs to God.”
…We have a statement made by Don Cafasso in 1853 to
clarify things for some learned clerics who were a bit hesitant
in regard to Don Bosco, but its value goes far beyond the petty
scope for which it was first given. In it Don Cafasso said:
“
How well do you know Don Bosco? For me, the
more I study him, the less I understand him. I see
him as both simple and extraordinary, humble and
great, poor and yet undertaking huge projects that
seem impossible. I have seen obstacles in his way
and his situation impossible, and yet he succeeds
splendidly in whatever he undertakes. For me, Don
Bosco is a mystery! I am certain, however, that he is
working for the glory of God, that God alone is his
guide, that God alone is the motive for all his
actions.”
16 Salesian NewslinkZMB Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
Ongoing formation
MICROSOFT CERTIFIED and regulations wherever we are doing so AIMS OF MISTER AND MISS DON
PROFESSIONAL 2010 we shall one day be called somebody. On BOSCO CONTEST
our own we could not do it we therefore 1. To promote culture
Lilongwe (Malawi) 25/06/2010.- would like to express our sincere gratitude 2. To expose the students to leadership,
The Church was growing after the to the school, Don Bosco IT-department organization and participation
specifically, Mr. Precious Chilupysa, Mr. 3. To work hand in hand with the
Peter Lungu, Mr. Ethian Harneck, Mr. management and organizing committee in
Pacifique Niyibizi for material support, the organization of the yearly graduation
Parents for financial and other presents we ceremony and other activities
do not take it for granted. 4. Entertainment.
MCP, Yes We Are!!! The recreational and cultural activities at
Our Way To The Top!!! DBYTI help staff and students come
together to grow as a family and develop
HISTORY OF DBYTI BEAUTY for the betterment of the Institution and the
Ascension of the Messiah, in our case we CONTEST pupils.
could say the number of believers has The first Miss and Mr Don Bosco Contest
increased the number of MCPs has was held in 2002. it was Father Chester
increased, Thomas the Messiah “Domain who was the Principal then, who took the
controller” said to the first MCPs “The initiative to organize the event. The first
hard working Sprit shall descend and You Miss Don Bosco was Ruth Chambukira
will understand the term certification, You and Mr Don Bosco was Denis Magombo.
shall then spread the Good news to all In 2003 Ruth handed the crown to Felistas
parts of Malawi”. As of now we already Lozo and Gregory Mkhoma Succeeded
have a lot in the industry serving the world Denis. The competition was getting better
spreading the good news about Don and stronger. In 2004 Tawene Nyirenda
Boaco’s given chances that different proudly carried the golden crown in the
people choose. company of Elwin Kambani, who later
preceded Cecilia Limbani and Kent
The 2010 MCP Olympic started on Chihana. In 2006 Idah Lewanika carried
January 11th with Mr. Precious Chilupysa, the crown in the company of Lonjezo
the Domain controller and the 17 of us Daudi. In 2007 Kumvana Hola and
members of the domain. It was not easy for Emmanuel Chongo were Miss and Mr
us to adapt to the changes, everything was Don Bosco. In 2009 Mphatso Chalendewa
new to us. Since we joined IT at Don and Ellen Kadango took the crown. Today
Bosco we never had such an idea of fully history is still being written, and on 14th
achieving what we now talk of all in all May, 2010 Catherine Chindiwo proudly
Team work was the best Ideal to reach the carried the golden crown in the company
top where we are. of Patrick Chisale.
At the college campus is now like the
popular songs that even those who don’t
like music sings thinking that it is an easy
go exam. All has been so by putting God’s
name first and following the schools’
Motto “hard work and vision”, attendance
and determination. Indeed when you need
something all the universe conspires in
helping you to achieve it and to realize
one’s destiny it is person’s real obligation.
To my fellow students let’s obey the rules
17Salesian NewslinkZMBJune 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
Salesians - Malawi
Bro. Walter in traditional outfit
during the MALAWI/SCOTTISH
NIGHT–DON BOSCO/
JAMES WATT
For more information visit
the official website of Don
Bosco College - Malawi
http://www.dbc-malawi.org
from the Warm heart of
AFRICA
News
18 Salesian NewslinkZMB Year 2010, 100 anniversary of the Death of don Rua
Mr. Charles Mwila Salesian Family
THE PASSING OF MR. JOHN LUBUMBE
A SALESIAN CO –OPERATOR
ndeed it is a blow to St. Marys Salesian Co-operators who in a
short time have lost three co-operators. Mrs. Shinondo died in I2006, Mr. faustino Chilekwa died late 2008 and the recent one
was the death of Mr. John Lubumbe who died on 3rd April, 2010.
These three people, from the time of their commitment as
Cooperators, had dedicated most of their time serving young
persons in their parish. God has his own ways, in our little thinking
as human persons we may not interpret why things would happen
initiating the young people in traditional and cultural values of our like this. We just pray that God be with them so that their souls rest
society. His death came as quite a shock because it was very in eternal peace.
sudden.Mr. Lubumbe was a unique gentleman, a teacher and a parent
Long live the co-operators, long live the Salesian charism.whose interest was focused most especially in kids and the young
teenagers. He spent most of time with the Holy Childhood
Mwila CharlesMovement. He also taught catechesis to these young ones. Mr.
Secretary – Kabwe Co - operatorsLubumbe participated much in the enculturation programme,
In Memoriam
Whether we live or die we belong to the Lord,
neither life nor death can separate us from Him
N
o
v
it
ia
te
Mr. GINO ZAMBERLAN R.I.P
Venezia (Italy) 27/05/2010.-
Thursday gave his spirit to the Lord. Mr Gino passed on at 2am in
the morning leaving behind wife, children and brothers and sisters
whom he loved dearly. For the funeral mass in Italy Fr. Bruno was
represented by the Salesians of the Venetian province.
Mr. Gino Zamberlan, the late brother fo The Salesian Family in Lusaka gathered on Friday 28, 7am at St
Fr. Bruno Zamberlan (Baba Bruno) has Matthias Mulumba parish for the funeral mass which was
left this world and gone to the Father. presided by Fr. Bruno.
The Zamberlan family and the Salesian
Family of ZMB province mourn the May he rest in peace!
death of Mr. Gino who in early hours of
C
o
n
st
ru
c
ti
o
n
Thanks to the efforts of
many and the
generosity of various
donors worldwide, the
construction of the
new novitiate in ZMB
is slowly becoming a
reality. There is still
some way to go, but
with the Lord’s help,
the novitiate will soon
be a reality...
19Salesian NewslinkZMBJune 2009 - June 2010 Year of Priests
Salesians - Namibia
among the young people, my Salesian assistance lost visibility
owing to the fact that there were many young people. A dog
sympathized with me and came to offer me some company. Where
I was it was calm but where the dog there wasn’t any. Another
difference is that we had joy and yet where the dog was there was a
repressive system and a few injuries.
The truth is that the harvest is rich but the laborers are few so let us
ask the owner of the harvest to send more workers. Thanks to the
province that soon we will receive young confreres into the
n the feast of Pentecost we celebrated 100 years since the community, they may inspire one or two of these young people to
arrival of the missionaries in the Kavango Region join the fight for winning souls.
Nyangana (Namibia). The celebration was well organized O The crisis in Shambyu that rocked the place some eight months ago
by Fr. Charles, a Malawian missionary working in the parish of (some dispute between the local people and the missionaries who
Nyangana. As usual I, Br. Raphael, went there to witness the event ran the place) still affects us here in Rundu. Hundreds of people
with a group of young people. still flock to our parish for sacraments, baptism certificates,
One thing that captured my attention is the statistics, the impact the marriage certificates and things the like. Hence Fr. Henry Juszczyk
missionaries have had on society. To my utter surprise the region SDB took some time to see the situation in Shambyu. He consoled
has only produced one priest, Fr. Maurus, an Oblate who is now my the sisters for not having daily communion, as they come to our
confessor. And there is no sign of someone coming after him. parish on Sundays. The place is in need of a priest; perhaps this
There are of course 12 sisters and a few deacons. helps people to appreciate the role of a priest, which somewhat was
The region is in need of religious men and women. As I was sitting misunderstood.
Celebrating the first
CENTENARY
of the arrival of Missionaries in the
Kavango Region
Cl. Raphael Lungu SDB lunguraph@yahoo.co.uk
KABWE - in pictures
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4
1. Kasavasa: Recollection Day at Mr. Wills’ Farm (20 km from Kabwe town).
2. Kabwe-Youth Centre: New team of animators of YES retreats (Youth
Encounter the Saviour) which is animated by Fr. Andrew Reut SDB.
3. Kabwe-Youth Centre: Birthday celebration of Novice Chongo Lupupa.
4. Kabwe-Youth Centre: Young people who gathered in the community chapel to
pray for vocations together with the Salesian community.
Printed in Lusaka - Provincial House | P.O.BOX 31148 | All rights reserved
LEGEND 7. Chawama: Fr. John Coleman sitting with the
bowl (dish) of popcorn on the day of this
1. Chawama: Bro. Walter Thyrniang in one of his arrival to the community.
interventions during the VI Provincial Chapter 8. Makeni: Fr. Leszek and all the administrators
2. Chawama: Fr. Andrew, Fr. Joseph and Cl. Simba of ZMB communities visiting the new
during the recreation time (PCVI). novitiate.
3. Chawama: All the participants of the PC VI 9. Hwange: Children of the oratory.
after the official closing of the Chapter. 10. Lusaka: Fr. Oswald Mulenga and Fr. Joseph
4. Lufubu: Danka, Mrs. Mutale and Kuba having Cz. while dressing up the new priest.
some rest after cooking lunch for the 11. Bauleni: Fr. Michael during the lunch
participants to the Holy Week Camp. offered on the day of his first mass.
5. Lufubu: Fr. Czeslaw in the ceremony of the 12. Chawama: First mass of Fr. Michael in th e
washing of the feet during Holy Thursday. provincial house.
6. Lilongwe: Fr. Alex Kim with a group of 13. Lufubu: Oratorians come to the community
volunteers and animators of the youth centre. for a print of Don Bosco’s face.
zmbsocialc@zmb.co.zm
For more information
visit our website:
www.salesianszmb.org
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