Bahama Catholic - August/September 2017

August/September Follow Us 2017 @archdioceseofnassau THE NEWSPAPER OF THE CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF NASSAUCatholic Educators Gather for School Opening MassFather Anselm Russell, blessed the teachers at opening Mass for Catholic School educators, held this year at St.Francis Xavier Cathedral under the theme: Many Parts: One Body Working Together for the Common Good.” Sister Vernice STATEMENT FROM ARCHBISHOP PINDER Marks ON HURRICANE IRMA 50 Years of We must remain prepared ! Religious Life Over the past month, we witnessed a number of devastating hurri-It was indeed a joyful evening on canes in our region.September 4, 2017 when Sister VerniceWilson, OSB, together with Archbishop Hurricane Irma, the most powerful Atlantic hurricane in recordedPatrick Pinder, the community of St. history, inflicted severe damage in the Southeast Bahamas, namelyMartin, clergy, family and friends gath- Ragged Island, Inagua, Acklins and Crooked Island. It went on to theered at St. Joseph’s Church to give cause widespread destruction in Cuba and Florida.glory to God for the 50 years of SisterVernice’s vocation. The islands of Barbuda, Turks and Caicos, Saint Maarten and British Virgin Islands bore the brunt of Hurricane Irma. Almost two weeks later, Hurricane Maria followed hurricane Irma, causing extensive damage to Dominica, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas. \"This is the time when we are called to show our care and our soli- darity for those who have been adversely affected by these Hurricanes, ’’ Archbishop Patrick Pinder said. “The damages and destruction done by these hurricanes is a cause for prayer and also a reminder that, as we are still in the 2017 hurri- cane season, we must remain prepared. Thus far, we have been immensely blessed and the majority of our archipelago has been pro- tected from the full destructive force of hurricanes. May God's protective hand always overshadow us and keep us safe,” The Archbishop said.

2 Archbishop My dear Sister Vernice, as Archbishop, I wish to publicly and personally Speaks thank you and applaud you. To thank and applaud you for embracing the gift of your vocation and for persevering in that vocation for these fifty years. This is indeed a testimony to Grace. It is a testimony to human nature co-operating with Grace and being elevated to a height both humble and noble. Master insisted that I stay in the Archbishop Patrick C. Pinder, STD, CMG monastic cloister. He informed me Notice what happened, \"And all spoke highly of him and that their daily schedule began with were amazed at the gracious words that came out of his mouth.\" (Luke 4:22) the first prayer at 4:30 a.m. He invit- But then things changed for the worst. Listen! He said toThe following is the homily delivered by ed me to join them and I boldly agreed. He instructed them:Archbishop Patrick C. Pinder, S.T.D., C.M.G. on me to meet him in the chapel at 4:15 a.m. wearing mythe occasion of the Golden Anniversary of Sister alb. \"Surely you will quote me this proverb, 'Physician, cure yourself,' and say, ‘Do here in your native place theVernice Wilson, O.S.B. Monday, September 4, The next morning, I was present at 4:15 a.m., sleepy and things that we heard were done in Capernaum.’ And he2017, at St. Joseph's Church. without my alb. He took me to the sacristy and had me said to them, \"Amen, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own native place. Indeed, I tell you, there were put on a cowl. Stepping back he looked at me and said, many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah when the sky was closed for three and a half years and a severe famineReadings: \"Now, you look like a monk.\" A much older monk who spread over the entire land. It was to none of these thatI Thessalonians 4:15-18 was there overheard him, looked at me and smiling said, Elijah was sent, but only to the widow of Zeraphath in[Psalm 96:1, 3-5, 11-13] \"No, Archbishop, it's the work of a lifetime.\" the land of Sidon. Again, there were many lepers in Israel during the time of Elisha the prophet; yet not oneLuke 4:16-30 It is the work of a lifetime. Hence Benedict called his of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian. “ When the people in the synagogue heard this, they wereDear Friends, Rule, \"a little rule for beginners.\" It is a Rule for those filled with fury. They rose up, drove him out of town, ... enrolled in the \"School of the Lord's Service.\" It is for .\" (Luke 4:23-29a) those who have responded to a call to seek God and pre- Where once there was acceptance and praise, there isThis is a happy day! We may be anticipating a visit, or at fer nothing to Christ. now rejection and condemnation. We need to reflect onleast a close call, from an uninvited guest, a hostile guest, why that is.Hurricane Irma. But even that cannot dim or dampen The very first word of the Rule of St. Benedict is a com- The presence and love of God is real in persons andthe joy of this day. mand. The command is this: LISTEN! Then the Rule places where we least expect. This very thought offended the pious people of the synagogue of Nazareth. But it isThe 50th Anniversary of Monastic Profession of Sister elaborates: \"Listen carefully with the ear of your heart.\" true. That is what the story of Naaman the Syrian was all about. That is what the story of the widow of ZeraphathVernice Wilson, O.S.B. is reason enough to rejoice. We We are used to hearing that the four actions of our wor- was all about. They were not Israelites, yet the mercy,have the added bonus of her 86th birthday, two days ago. ship are: care and grace of the Lord embraced them as well.This is a reason to marvel at the goodness of the Lord. The presence, love and grace of the Lord is in our midstMy dear Sister Vernice, as Archbishop, I wish to publicly - Gathering too - often in the most unexpected ways.and personally thank you and applaud you. To thank - Listeningand applaud you for embracing the gift of your vocation - Sharing Today we celebrate that Presence, Love and Grace in theand for persevering in that vocation for these fifty years. - Sending Forth. life-long example and witness of a woman, fifty years inThis is indeed a testimony to Grace. It is a testimony to religious life and eighty-six years in biological life. Thathuman nature co-operating with Grace and being elevat- The listening is with reference to the Liturgy of the is surely reason enough to be thankful to God.ed to a height both humble and noble. Word. I often wonder if we are listening with the ear of hearts. The sharing denotes our participation in the High up in the hills south of Rome, about half-way toFifty years ago Sister Vernice embraced religious life. Liturgy of the Eucharist. As we attempt to listen with the Naples, lies a place called Monte Casino. It is there thatFifty years of stability in one pattern of life or one place ears of our hearts this evening, we hear first from St. St. Benedict founded his first monastery. It is there thator even one relationship is not so common. Sister Paul. His first letter to the Thessalonians is the oldest St. Benedict is buried.Vernice and the community of Saint Martin live accord- writing in the New Testament, older even that the Gospeling to the Benedictine way of life. This way of life follows of Mark. As a visitor approaches the front door of the monasterya Rule written by St. Benedict around the year 525 A.D., there, what is most visible above the massive green doornot just yesterday. It is tested by time, tested by cen- Here we find Paul - after having taught that Christ died is one word - PAX - Peace. Peace is perhaps the greatestturies. and rose victorious over death, having to explain why we gift of the Spirit. still have to die. And though we look to the SecondFrom then till now, communities of men and women Coming of Christ - those who are dead will be at no dis- Sister Vernice, may that Peace of the Lord be yours ashave used this Rule of St. Benedict to organize their daily advantage when Christ comes again. Why? Because we you mark this most significant milestone in your life.lives according to a pattern of prayer and work - \"ora et are always with the Lord. More aptly - the Lord is always May you continue to share that gift of peace with all oflabora\" as the Latin renders it. with us. us, as you witness to a lifetime of carefully listening to the Lord with the ear of your heart.More importantly this Rule organizes their relationships We listen further and we hear this. Jesus returns to thewith each other and, most importantly, with God. The town where he grew up, Nazareth. In the synagogue he May many others follow your example in life, and God bewisdom of the Holy Rule proposes obedience and humili- reads from the Prophet Isaiah. praised, in religious life, too.ty as the virtues which are at the foundation of lovewhich, when perfected, casts out fear. \"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He hasThe conviction and insights and virtues which fashion a sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recoveryBenedictine vocation do not mature in an instant. It is a of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, andprocess. Indeed, it is the work of a lifetime. I recall visit- proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.\" (Luke 4:18-19)ing a monastery in the beautiful mountain town ofSnowmass, Colorado. As a visitor, I hoped to stay in the Then he went on to give what must be the shortest homi-guesthouse but with my being an Archbishop the Guest ly on record. He said, \"Today, this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.\" (Luke 4:21)

3AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESESister Vernice Marks 50 Years of Religious LifeThere have been difficult times for Sister One of Sister’s highlights, she said, came shortly after becoming a Catholic. Vernice Wilson, OSB, during her five Many of her family members did as well. Even her mother was baptized a decades of service to God and her call to Roman Catholic on her death bed. “For this, I am still thankful, as I believe thatReligious life. However, Sister is resolute in say- my vocation not only brought joy to my life but to my family members.” ing that nothing compares to the happy years. “Celebrating 50 years of religious life has certainly been a blessing. I thank God “ Through it all, God has always been for my call to vocation. I am grateful to my family, the Sisters and all who have- with me, “ Sr. Vernice said. “I trust helped me along the way. Being in the St. Martin’s community has certainly God and I am sure He will continue made me stronger in my faith”, she said. “My appreciation for my community to give me the strength to go on.” continues to deepen - God has been good to me.” Born in Rolletown, Exuma in 1931, Now retired, Sister Vernice also celebrated a milestone birthday - her 86th on Sister Vernice is a Baptist convert. September 3. Although, she gets very weak at times, she says, she keeps mov- She came to Nassau in 1939 to ing and giving thanks that she can still perform so many chores. I still bake, attend St. Joseph Catholic School, cook, clean and visit the sick. then St. Francis Xavier School. Her spiritual journey began when she With God’s help, Sister Vernice said of her past 50 years: “I can only hope the rest of my life here on earth will be just as wonderful. I thank God for keeping attended daily Mass at St. me in his tender care and pray that He will be with me to the end.‘’ Joseph’s and St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and Background became involved in church activities. And in 1947, she Her teaching career started when she was chosen to become a class monitor in was baptized a Catholic. the absence of teachers, while attending St. Francis Xavier School. She taught as Sts. Anselm’s, Joseph, Bede, Holy Name, and St. Vincent de Paul schools. Sister Vernice made her first vows to become a nun She has served as a leader in the Red Cross Society, Girls Guide, RCIA program, in Minnesota in 1967, and initiated the original Brownies and Girls Guide at Holy Name School (Bimini). took her final vows in 1972 Before she retired, Sister assisted in caring for the children at the Nazareth to the community of St. Center. Martin.Inset: Sister Vernice receiving her final vows in1972 at the ceremony in the chapel of St.Martin’s Convent. The late Bishop PaulLeonard Hagarty performed the rite.The Sisters of the St. Martin community gathered together to celebrate the Golden Jubileeanniversary of Sister Vernice.

4Archbishop Patrick Pinder was the main celebrant and homilest, he was assisted by Deacons Ricardo Demeritte, Samuel Mitchell and LawrenceMsgrs. Simeon Roberts and Alfred Culmer. Ferguson. Communion meditation was performed by Sisters Cecilia, Marva and Annie.Father David Cooper, pastor of Mary, Star of the Sea, (Grand Bahama) Many of Sisterflew in from Grand Bahama to share in Sister Vernice’s special day. Vernice’s rela- tives attending the Mass of Thanksgiving celebrating her milestone.Gift bearers- Syneisha and Sydney and Bootle.

5 Fr Cartwright: “ Allow Jesus (the 1st teacher)to continue to form you into the best teacher you can be.”Fr. Noel Clarke, Mrs.Jacintha Goffe, princi-pal of Xavier LowerSchool, Fr. RichardCartwight and Fr.Anselm Russell follow-ing Opening Mass forCatholic school educa-tors.The beginning of another school year is upon us, teachers. Frs. Anselm and Russell Noel Clarke co-celebrat- \"We give thanks to God unceasingly, that, in receiving the Catholic school educators were reminded by Fr. ed. word of God from hearing us, you received it not as the Richard Cartwright, during the Opening Mass at St. word of men but as it truly is, the word of God. These wordsFrancis Xavier Cathedral on August 30. That formation is Father Cartwright’s homily follows below: to the Thessalonians are also relevant to us. We, like theat the very heart of Catholic Education, and everything Thessalonians, must be ready to receive the word of God,they say and do will form their students. “Therefore, all you So, we turn to the Lord for His guidance because He is the as it truly is. And what is the word of God saying?do and say must be of Jesus Christ.” First teacher. The Gospel is always on target. In today's Gospel we have a stern warning from our Lord, \"Woe to Jesus Christ: the First Teacher, warns the scribes andFather Cartwright, a product of Catholic education, noted you scribes and Pharisees\" these words are meant to grab Pharisees of their errors. So too, the Lord will not allow usthat he was honoured to address so many of his former our attention. to fall by the wayside. In fact, He uses the Scribes and Pharisees as examples to illustrate the truth that it is some- At the same time, they are meant to times not easy to be corrected. This is a reminder, that, to call us to the authenticity of our voca- be good teachers, we must remember that we were once tional call to teach. There is good students. In the eyes of God, we must continue to be stu- news: you are not alone on this teach- dents on this journey of life. While we are called to teach ing journey. Let us turn our attention and to lead, we are at the same time called to remain active to our motto for this school year: learners. An authentic teacher understands that he or she Many Parts, One Body. The implica- does not have all the answers. An authentic teacher is a tion here is: united we stand and constant seeker of wisdom. And the best place to seek wis- divided we fall. When we follow the dom is at its source: in Jesus Christ. Lord, the First Teacher, there will be no division among us because our Teachers, the overall message of today's Gospel, is that we invitation from Him is to be con- are not to be like the Scribes and Pharisees who were not stantly united. It is an invitation to open to what the Lord was doing in their lives. We are connect with the grace God has given called, rather, to be open, to be ready, to be excited for what to each of you as teachers. In the the Lord is doing in our lives. words of St. Paul, in the first reading: Psalm 139 reminds us: He knows your very being. And because He is always there, always available to us, we are Top photo: Combined School Choir - Left photo: able to turn to Him, the First teacher, and ask Him to lead Teachers, Santiala Ferguson and Marthanece us and guide us each and every day. Our daily classroom Bullard led the intercessions. Botton photo: journey, like our journey of faith will never come without teachers greeting each other during kiss of challenges. And as we face each one, we must ask our- peace. selves: Am I one of the scribes or one of the Pharisees? However we answer, please God, you will allow the First Teacher to direct your steps toward and down the right path. May each of us allow Jesus, the First Teacher, to con- tinue to form us into the best teacher we can be. The key word here is \"formation\". Formation is at the very heart of Catholic Education. Teachers, everything you say and do will form your students. So, when we leave here today, may all we say and do be of Jesus Christ. Thank you, teachers, for answering the call to lead, to edu- cate, and to form young minds and hearts. As this new school year begins, be assured of the First Teacher's pro- found love for you.

6The Christophers celebrate 35 yearsThe Christophers organization of Holy Family Parish celebrated their 35 anniver- sary in August 2017. The Men’s group wasfounded in August 1982 to assist Fr. AlfredCulmer with the many challenges facing the youngparish.The group soon evolved into a ministry, which The motto: “Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone willmet once a month, and whose goal primarily was praise your heavenly Father.” The Christophers executives officers are: Edwinto be of service to the parish and surrounding Thompson, President, Lester Dean, Vice President, Anthony Christie, Secretary,community. It was involved in the construction, Elrod Hepburn, Assistant Secretary, Eddie Russell, Treasurer and Blaise Taylor,refurbishing and repairs of the first chapel and Chaplin.then the second. They even financed the priestresidence and the landscaping of parish property,tiled the church floor, installed ceiling fans, andfrom time to time painted the church as well provided any and all energy andfinance required for the running of the parish.Younger men of the parish were encouraged to join the group, as they adoptedthe name “The Christophers” after the patron saint of “Strength” and “Travel”.The Christophers in actionFISH FRYThe Christophers have been organizing, sponsoring, cleaning and frying for thisGood Friday event for a few decades.HOSPITALITY MINISTRYThe group took the mantle in formalizing this ministry. Eventually, women wereinvited to join , uniforms were selected, and this arm of the parish grew by leapsand bounds in a short time, and became a separate ministry.VALENTINE DINNER DANCEThe idea was born out of the need and desire for parishioners to socialize in a saneand elegant atmosphere. The first one was held in 200, and it is one of the groupsmost successful activities.SIP ‘N CHATThis pleasantry was initiated by theMen’s Group in 1998. The Sip ‘n’ Chat,held after mass was designed to allowparish members to get to know eachother outside the walls of the church. Asmall breakfast is made available, inaddition to sweets and drinks.FATHERS’ DAY AWARDSA “Father of the Year” award is presentedto two outstanding fathers each year,accompanied by plaques and gifts.LECTURE SERIESThe Men moved to sponsor a lectureseries led by local churchmen on variousrelevant social issues.SICK & SHUT-INSA small group of men visit those in theparish who are not able to continue theirspiritual journey on a regular basis.ANNUAL BOAT CRUISEThis is a popular fundraiser and socializing event.ANNUAL FAIR AND RAFFLEThe Men play an active role in this major fund-raiser for our parish and are involved in every otheractivity initiated.

7SEMINARIAN SPOTLIGHT: Devereaux KingHometown: Wilson Bay Cat Island, Bahamas my heart a great need to share the sweetness of theParents Names: Leonardette Ross-King and Daniel sacrament with others who do not know its life-givingKing and saving power. Other factors that have led me to the seminary are fellow youth. Since I was in highHigh School: Aquinas College Roman Catholic school, my friends and loved ones have always comeHigh School. Graduated in 2012 to me for personal advice and even consolation when they feel as if life is pulling them down. It always givesCollege: College of the Bahamas (now University of joy and energy to lead them closer to Jesus who is thethe Bahamas) Graduated with an Associate of greatest counselor and comforter of all humanity.Applied Science in Culinary Arts in 2015. What do I like most about being seminarian: ISeminary: St. John Vianney College, Miami, FL. am allowed to let Jesus shine through my own unique personality which he has blessed me with. There is noWhat factors led you to the Seminary: The fac- need for me to change who I am! Even though I feeltors that led me to the seminary were first and fore there is a call in my life to the priesthood of Jesusmost my indescribable love for Jesus Christ and his Christ, the most important thing I am called to do isChurch. I always feel fulfillment in sacrificing my to share my personality and character with otherstime and talents for the sake of the Church. Another and allow them to see Jesus shining through me.great attribute that led me to the seminary is my lovefor the Eucharist, which is the source and summit of Where was your summer assignment? Holythe Roman Catholic Faith. Jesus who is present in the Redeemer, New Bight, Cat Island, BahamasEucharist has always been there for me, especially inmy greatest adversities of life and I have always felt inSr. Marva and Fr Nixon represents Archdiocese of Nassau at AEC Vocations ConferenceSister Marva and other participants share ideas during a group networking and support to the des-discussion. Right photo: Fr Glen Nixon and Sister Marva on tour ignated Directors of Vocations. Itwith other participants. was concluded that vocation was everybody’s business. All the min-Fr. Glen Nixon, Director of Vocation and Sr. Marva 1) The importance of collaborative work, like the seamless istries in the Archdiocese are Coakley, Director of Vocation for St. Martin garment of Jesus. responsible for the development of Monastery represented the Archdiocese of Nassau 2) 21st century call to discipleship calls us to work as one programs to encourage vocations.at The Regional Vocational Conference held in Arima, body, not a fragmented Church-Parish Team Building. Each program whether in schools,Trinidad and Tobago July 21-July 23, 2017. 3) To examine the call to social justice and the method of youth groups, CCD, etc. should have SEE, JUDGE, ACT) Use the method to analyze our envi- the use of standard discernment andThe vision of the AEC Vocations Commission is to create a ronment and develop a strategic plan to address the issues. admission process in the curricu-culture of vocations throughout the region that will lum. After the presentation, groupinspire, animate and challenge all the Christian Faithful to 5) Importance of social justice catechesis for all ministries. discussions and lots of praying andunderstand and discern the call to Priesthood and 6) Return to parishes with a strategic plan and timeline for discernmen,t we concluded that weConsecrated Life. implementation. are all called to live a holy life. Our goal is to be in union with God.The Conference brought together people from various The theme of the conference was: Creating a Culture of There are different paths each one ofministries in the Church to examine the following issues Vocation in the Region. The presentations and discussions us can take to reach our ultimateunder the guidance of the AEC Bishops: were centered on the promotion of education, resources, goal: priesthood, marriage (family), religious life, single life of voluntary ministry. The whole weekend experience was a most needed one. It was also inspiring; putting one in touch with the entire Caribbean Catholic Church. All who participated were able to connect and share our own experiences in their schools and parishes. Be a happy camper and bring joyful news of the risen Christ. Sr. Marva said the conference was “an empowering expe- rience and she is more propelled to work as the vocation director for St. Martin Monastery and the Archdiocese of Nassau.”

8 The Restoration of The Nave of Restored CathedralA View of Altar and SanctuaryNeko Meicholas, Bahamian artist, created the grand triptych which is mounted behind the altar of the restored Cathedral. (see article on page 10 )

9old Cathedral of St. Francis XavierSide view of chapel and new organ Baptismal font and decorative mosaic floorRestored marble altar and Restored ambowooden altar railing. Restored tabernacle from old Cathedral

10 The Story of a Glorious Entry to Bahamian Art: Neko Meicholas’ Grand Triptych Graces Restored St Francis Xavier Cathedral “I know intimately the profound depths from which this triptych springs. Just know that it is a gift of great beauty, and I praise the giver for risking self-revelation, the acclaim or disparagement of those who will see the works, in order to endow us with this spiritual experience in a world that feels safer with superficiality...” His Grace could have chosen the easy route of factory-manufactured, decorative art, which lacks the personal engagement and spirit of the artist, but to an art lover’s grat- itude, he didn’t. With great trepidation, Neko Meicholas accepted the charge. Could he deliver work that was worthy of being permanently displayed behind the altar of St Francis Xavier? Without alerting his patron, Meicholas decided that he would need to create three paintings, if the emplacement was to have a dynamic visual impact. The two additional paintings would be Neko’s gift to the Church.Neko Meicholas and Archbishop Patrick Pinder, at the installation The emergent paintings are each 36”x 48” acrylic on linen covering the entire wall onof Neko's triptych \"Christ Pantocrator : The Message\" on the altar which they are mounted. Beyond fulfilling the mandates of tradition as regards figura-of St Francis Xavier. Photo credit: Patricia Glinton-Meicholas tion, it can be seen immediately that the artist was very much spiritually engaged, in the manner of a Jacob wrestling with the angel, recognizing the supernatural, but deter- By Patricia Glinton-Meicholas mined to do so on his own terms. Those who leave behind their prejudices, and truly engage the triptych will see a personal iconography emerging from a surfeit ofBahamian artist Neko Meicholas has created a grand triptych which adorns the metaphor. older structure of the Roman Catholic St Francis Xavier Cathedral. The West The Christ who is the central figure of the Meicholas rendition is not the polished, Street church stands high on Nassau’s central ridge overlooking the capital’s har- boardroom CEO, blue-eyed with golden hair flowing and coiffed who, for so long, dom-bour. Since the rededication, the Catholic faithful have had the opportunity to savour inated Christian art. Here are the rough locks of a Middle-Eastern village carpenter.the work’s obvious merits. Here is a brown man, browner to reflect the Bahamian majority. Christ’s face is not one that will attract Hollywood contracts, but appropriately reflects the suffering appropri-The story began on 25 September 2009. Owing to an electrical fault, fire engulfed the ate to a “man of sorrows”, acquainted with grief and existential pain.rafters of the then 124-year-old church causing extensive damage. In what many havecalled a miracle (including this writer), the tabernacle was spared and the Eucharist Bordering the side canvases are faces of believers turned towards Christ in adoration.inside was untouched. It was, perhaps, symbolic of what was to come. Archbishop Their expressions are reflective of the suffering endured by those who would keep faithPatrick Pinder, CMG, STD vowed immediately to restore that sacred space. Known to in a world that tries to rebury a revolutionary whose Gospels are subversive of joys thatbe meticulous in his dealings, Archbishop Pinder took his time assembling the builders, rest stubbornly in the secular, egocentric and immediate. And, as truthful a depictionartisans and artists, who would contribute to the restoration and embellishment of the are the male and female figures in cameo, who turn away in rejection.historic structure. Worthy of mention here is carpenter/cabinetmaker Dolph Sands ofEleuthera, whose beautiful woodwork can be seen gracing the facility. Nevertheless, though deeply immersed in Catholic doctrine, the triptych is not a long- faced revival meeting, but possessing all the fullness and sensuousness of colour, lineNeko Meicholas, a “cradle” Catholic, was chosen for two very special tasks: 1) create a and movement required by those who would rather not spend too much time in darkChrist Pantocrator painting that would serve as the altarpiece, and 2) painstaking reflection. Meicholas has created canvases of incredible beauty, offering a Byzantinerestore the 14 Stations of the Cross, which had been extensively impacted by corrosive palette of golds, ochres, umber, a mixture redolent of a rich, aged red wine, but permit-smoke. Meicholas had wet his feet with the design and production of 50-plus pieces of ting Bahamian blues to break through.ceramic art, which beautify the new Holy Family Catholic Church in the Marathon areaof New Providence. He knew, however, that this new commission would represent a Klimt, the symbolist, expressed his artistic credo when he said, \"Whoever wants todeep submersion into Christian iconography. The Archbishop specified that the paint- know something about me - as an artist which alone is significant - they should looking was to feature the traditional elements of all Christ Pantocrator imaging. attentively at my pictures and there seek to recognize what I am and what I want.\" For Neko Meicholas, the same holds true. It is on the two bracket paintings that he playsThe central constituent parts of the image are specified by the Pantocrator’s long and hide and seek. Here is a cornucopia of metaphor, taking the serious viewer on andeeply imbedded history in the Church’s iconography. Christ, his head encircled by a intense journey of exploration to winkle them out. His angels hover in robes that reflecthalo is pictured half-length from the waist up, holding the Gospels in his left hand with the ethereality to be expected of heavenly messengers, and take on living dynamism. Ithis right hand making a gesture of teaching or of blessing. The book, held close to his is through the endless superimposed swirls and the opaque white, porcelain birds thatbody, is prominently marked by the Cross. Often, the name of Christ is written as IC dive across the spaces that Meicholas renders the Holy Spirit, as if he himself wishes toXC, divided into two blocks by the figure. imbibe its hallucinogenic, addictive vigour. What more I see, I will keep to myself. I know intimately the profound depths from which this triptych springs. Just know that it is a gift of great beauty, and I praise the giver for risking self-revelation, the acclaim or disparagement of those who will see the works, in order to endow us with this spiri- tual experience in a world that feels safer with superficiality.

11 OFFICE Holding on to Our Faith Through Mary Pt. 2Famof ily Life The Life of MaryThe Ladies’ Auxiliary of Blessed Sacrament If we were to describe the life of Mary in one sen- (Harbour Island) were hosted at a Women's tence, we could say that Mary lived in constant con- Retreat , June 9 -10, 2017. Led by Mrs. Agatha formity with the will of God.Cartwright, Director of Family Life. The theme of theretreat was\" Holding on to our Faith through Mary.” We return to the Annunciation. There it was the willMrs. Cartwright says this theme is a suitable and of God that Mary submit her will to His. She did.timely one because we live in perilous times. Part 2 The angel did not tell her to go to visit her kinswomanMary’s faith sustained her through the years at Elizabeth. At most he intimated she might do so. SheNazareth. But it was especially her faith from Calvary recognized what we may call, “the implied” will ofto Easter Sunday. Mary’s faith never wavered. She God. She acted on the inspiration immediately. Thenever ceased to believe in the fulfillment of God’s evangelist even says she did so “with haste.” The leastWord. And so the Church venerates in Mary, the “divine suggestion,” and she was off to do it.purest realization of faith. (Cf. CCC 149) Mary’s Magnificat is a library of information of what it means to do the will of God:There is nothing more fundamental for us, nothing heart.” Luke 2:51- This is the only recorded statement • To do the will of God is to magnify the Lord, that ismore needed than a share in Mary’s clear and under- of what Mary did during the long years that she lived to praise Him, and not to look for praise or recogni-standing faith. with her Son at Nazareth. tion for oneself. • To do the will of God is to rejoice in God’s will, noFaith alone teaches. Unbelief does not. Faith alone The Prayer of Christians matter how naturally reluctant we may be.inspires. Unbelief does not. Faith alone is used byGod to communicate the faith to others. Unbelief, no As with faith, so with prayer, it is impossible to really • To do God’s will is to see myself as lowly, no mattermatter how learned or erudite, cannot give others live our lives as Christians unless we really pray. what great things God may do through me.what it does not have. (Cf. GDC, 141) (Cf.CCC 153) Call it verbal prayer or meditation. Call it mental • To do God’s will is to fear the Lord, not as a cower-Mary taught by living what she believed, like Mary, prayer or the liturgy. Call it aspirations or quiet ing slave but as one who fears to offend the one wewe must live out what we believe. moments with God. By whatever name, prayer is the love. lifeblood of Christians. We touch on the hearts of • To do God’s will is not to aspire to earthly power orThe Prayer of Mary individuals when we say that they must pray. There riches but to be satisfied with little and to be willing are many reasons for this, but especially two: Prayer to be poor.The Blessed Virgin prayed. Tradition tells us she was is the ordinary source of grace to enlighten ourat prayer when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to her minds, and prayer is the ordinary source of grace for In a word, to do God’s will is to see oneself as a mereto tell her she was chosen to be the Mother of God. moving our wills. servant who claims no rights from God but is always(Cf. CCC 2617) conscious of the duties that a servant should fulfill. There are really two minds and two wills involved As she stood beneath the cross, Mary knew it wasAt the Visitation, she prayed the Magnificat. At here. And both need, absolutely need, the grace that God’s will that she be there, suffering in spirit inBethlehem, there is not a single word of conversation in God’s ordinary providence comes only through union with her Son.with other people, related of Mary. There is only one prayer. (Cf. CCC, 155)sentence. After the shepherds had seen the Infant And after His Ascension, Mary also knew it was theJesus and proceeded to tell everyone about their mar- To believe in this way, they need all the light they can divine will that she be with the Apostles and disciplesvelous experience, the evangelist simply says, “But receive from God. And the catechist will obtain this to wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit.Mary kept in mind all these things, pondering them light for them, provided the catechist prays. (Cf. CCCin her heart.” Luke 2:19 Mary’s prayer was prayer of 2621) Always she saw the will of God as the Providence ofthe heart. In a word, Mary prayed in the depths of her God in her life. She saw the circumstances in whichbeing, uniting herself with Jesus, who she knew was she found herself as part of His all-wise plan in herat once her Creator and her Child. regard. And she responded accordingly.Again at the Presentation, not a single word quoting Without an abundance of supernatural grace, to be Always she saw the mysterious hand of God in theMary in conversation with the priest in the Temple, obtained through prayer, the beautiful truths of the actions of human beings, including Augustus Caesaror with Simeon or Anna. Simeon spoke to Mary, but faith will remain just that, beautiful ideals to admire. who ordered the census that forced her to go towe are not told whether or what she spoke with him. If these truths are to be put into practice, not once or Bethlehem to give birth to her Child, including HerodShe was, we are sure, wrapped in prayer. occasionally but a lifetime, a lifetime of divine help is who forced her to flee to Egypt with the same Child in required. her arms, and including Pilate who condemned herOnce more, at the Finding in the Temple, when Son and the executioners who nailed Him to theJoseph and Mary found Jesus, His mother asked Him The principal font of this divine assistance is the cross.why He had done what He did. His answer was that grace of God. And the principal way to obtain thisHe had to be about His real heavenly Father’s busi- grace is by prayer.ness. So for the second time, St. Luke tells us that,“His mother kept all these things carefully in her

12 Youth News Youth Office to launch Catholic HERE’S WHAT’S Ministry on UB campus COMING UP !Theology on Tap UBCSS - University of The Bahamas Catholic Students' Society executive teamWhere – Harbourfront Lounge and advisors, pictured from left to right: Mrs. Frances Armbrister (St. AnselmWhen – Wednesday, October 11, Church), Geovanni Robinson, Julyen Pinder, Julyette Pinder (president),Time – 7:30pm – 10pm Celeste Armbrister, Ms. Bernadette Robins ( St. Paul the Apostle Church) and Deacon William Fielding (St. Paul the Apostle Church)SEARCH Retreat When: Thursday, September 28SEARCH for Christian Maturity is aRoman Catholic retreat program that Where: University of The Bahamas Campusstarted in the USA in 1962. It is a retreatconducted by teens for teens with the Time: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.guidance of adult facilitators who havealready made a SEARCH retreat. On Thursday, September 28, all new and returning University of The Bahamas (UB) students are invited to the official launch of TheSEARCH is held twice a year and is open to Catholic youth ages 16-19. University of The Bahamas Catholic Students’ Society (UBCSS) from 2 Where – Emmaus Centre p.m. - 4 p.m. on the University’s campus. When – Weekend of October 6 – 8 What is UBCSS about? It isdesigned to provide a safe and supportive envi- Archdiocesan Youth Pilgrimage ronment for Catholic university students on campus, while also inviting non- Catholics who may be curious about what we believe. Excited about this new is the brain child of Archbishop Patrick C. Pinder. arm of the Youth Department, Director Julie Bingham, says, we will be creat- He leads confirmed teens on a pilgrimage where ing an environment that welcomes all, no matter what denomination.” they explore sacred spaces throughout our Archdiocese. AYP is held once a year and is open to Objectives for the new academic year include: Develop and implement service confirmed young Catholics ages 16 - 22. projects, promote the social teachings of Catholicism, inform non-Catholic students about the faith, provide forums to share ideas and programs to Where – St. Francis Xavier Cathedral enlighten students, advocate for the needs and concerns of Catholics at UB When – Friday, October 27 & Saturday, October 28 and to create an environment that welcomes all, no matter what denomina- tion.BASIC Retreat Julyette Pinder, president of UBCSS, and a member of St. Thomas MoreThe BASIC (Brothers and Sisters in Parish, pledged that she and her executive team will “commit themselves toChrist) Retreat provides an opportunity service both on and off campus. She added that, by faith, we are called tofor young teens to experience spiritual give our time, talent and treasures to serve others and spread the Good Newsgrowth appropriate to their stage of by word and action.development, in a community atmos-phere that is modeled after the family The designated home parish is St. Joseph’s. Monsignor Alfred C. Culmer isand the Church. the pastor and he is assisted by Deacon Peter Jones. “ We plan to celebrate atBASIC is held twice a year and is open to St. Joseph’s as a group at certain points during the university year,” JulyetteCatholic youth ages 13 – 15. says, “ along with other events such as, grill & chill and discussions on vari-Where – Emmaus Centre ous topics related to the Catholic faith. St. Thomas Aquinas is the patronWhen – Weekend of November 10 – 11 saint and the motto is: Devoted to Christ. Committed to His Church.”

13They walked in thefootsteps of Christ 17 Faithful make Holy Land Pilgrimage Pilgrims pose for a last group photo before they leave their hotel in Jerusalem.The Via Crucis (stations of the cross) - (Editor’s note: On July 23, 2017 a group of 17 large spectrum in the style of dress between Jews andMonica Rahming (front) and Barbara Bahamians left Nassau to begin an almost 24- hour Muslims. The pilgrims were amazed at that the moreCash take their turn to carry the cross journey. Their destination? The Holy Land. They traditional of both groups were completely covered inand pilgrims followed the stations were on a pilgrim journey. Many of the pilgrims were clothing in temperatures that rose to 110 degrees.throughout the streets of Jerusalem. parishioners of St. Anselm’s; two from Sacred Heart While Israel is a place filled with many holy sites of and the others were family and friends from the Our Lord and the saints, it is also the home to many Anglican and Baptist communities. Below is an inter- ,with many street vendors trying to pitch a sale, traffic view with Taniele Tucker, who led the group. She is a jams and kids trying to make their way to school. So Consecrated Woman of Regnum Christi, who grew up while there were differences, there were also many in Nassau and a former parishioner of St. Anselm’s similarities anyone could relate to. before she discerned that God was calling her to a life This was my second time visiting the Holy Land. The of total consecration in chastity, poverty and obedi- first time I was overwhelmed with a sense of familiari- ence. ) ty. As a missionary, I have lived out of the Bahamas since 1999. I’ve travelled to many places, but never Where did the inspiration for the pilgrimage before had I set foot in a foreign country and breathed come from and who organized it? in the air thinking, “How good it is to be home!” As for the group, perhaps the most common first My parents, John and Hilda Tucker have had the impression was to experience the awe that we had set desire for a long time to make a pilgrimage to the Holy foot in the same land where Jesus grew up, worked, Land. As we spoke about it from time to time, the Holy preached, performed miracles, died and rose from the Spirit put it on our hearts that rather than making a dead. We were literally walking in the footsteps of personal family pilgrimage, this could also be a grace- Christ. filled opportunity for the wider Church community at home. I’ve previously led pilgrimages to Italy, Poland Describe your itinerary for us? and the Holy Land. My parents began speaking about it at church and soon we had a group of nearly 20 per- We did our best possible to follow the life of Christ sons interested. We asked the Archbishop for his chronologically. To cover the early life of Christ we blessing and he agreed that this pilgrimage could pro- travelled to Nazareth and saw Mary’s home and the vide profound graces to increase the faith of each pil- house were Jesus grew up. We prayed in grim. In turn our churches, homes, workplaces, in fact, BethlehemEin Karem (home of Elizabeth, Zachariah this would impact everything around us. and John the Baptist). We spent most of our time in Galilee to cover the public life of Christ – Capernaum What were some of the first impressions upon (Peter’s home), Mount of the Beatitudes, Cana, Mount arriving to the Holy Land? Tabor, Tabgha, Magdala, and Jericho to name a few places. We ended in Jerusalem to cover the Passion, The pilgrims first impressions were varied, but very Death and Resurrection. We celebrated mass in positive. Some were struck by how developed the Gethsemane, visited the house of Caiaphas where country was with the roads, buildings and services one Jesus was kept prisoner, walked the Stations of the finds in any developed country. Others were amazed at Cross, prayed at the site of Calvary and visited the the obvious difference between religions. There was a tomb of the Resurrection. Continued on page 14

14Continued from page 13 pilgrims with the opportunity to swim in the Sea of Galilee. There was timeDid you feel safe while you were for shopping in between our visits.there? Do people feel changed after theyYes, and many expressed that were so make such a monumentalgrateful they came in spite of the news journey?they heard. Like any other country, Israelis not exempt of violence. Just a few days It’s hard not to. You cannot read or lis-before arriving, there was a violent uproar ten to the scriptures in the same way.in the old city of Jerusalem which ended in Now each person can say, “I wasthe death of two policemen and the terror- there.” Some people may never make itists involved. We took the necessary pre- to Israel, but every one can say “I wascautions to find out if it was still safe to in Bethlehem” because the Wordtravel or to cancel the pilgrimage. The became flesh there for you, “I was onauthorities within Israel maintain a very Calvary – because Jesus died there outhigh level of security and keep the public of love for you”. The pilgrimage helpedout of risk. We were not only assured that to bring home the reality that ourthe situation was under control, but we entire earthly life is meant to be a pil-witnessed it in our regular visits to the Old grimage to our heavenly homeland –City. the real Holy Land.Describe a day on the Pilgrimage? Testimonies:Our general schedule was an early morn- My pilgrimage to the Holy Land was Gethsemane - Pilgrims are shown during mass praying the Our Father.ing wakeup call followed by a full buffet spirit-filled and reflective. The scriptures They are surrounding the rock on which Jesus prayed during his agony inbreakfast and then off to visit our pilgrim came alive to me as I walked in the foot- the garden. Shown from left to right are Taniele Tucker, Eileen Bain,sites. We had a priest with us the entire steps of Christ and witnessed some of the Helene Hutchison and Marita Ferguson.time and celebrated mass everyday. There amazing scenes and places I have onlywas quite a bit of walking involved in theday, which was a part of the sacrifice due read about in the Bible. You could picture that moment carrying His Cross. \"My experience was overwhelming!to the heat and sometimes-steep climbs. Jesus at Gethsemane; on Calvary and at Renewing our 30th anniversary wedding Especially when I knelt at the tomb whereLunch was always in a restaurant, followed the River Jordan. Carrying the cross dur- vows in Cana was special as the first mira- Jesus laid. It was such a sweet, sweet spiritby visiting a few more holy sites or an ing the Stations of the Cross particularly at cle took place at a wedding in Cana. It was in that place.\" - Marita Ferguson -Sacredearly return to the hotel for a rest from the the 5th Station (Simon of Cyrene held an experience which I will long remember Heart Parish.heat. A few early afternoons even provided Jesus to carry His Cross) gave me a having shared it with my wife which was glimpse of what his suffering for us must our gift to each other for our anniversary. have been like as my wife and I shared - Joseph R. Curry – St. Anselm’s Parish Knight of Columbus Council # 11755 makes contributation to Archdiocesan Annual Appeal Knights of Columbus Council 11755 Officers paid a Courtesy Call on Archbishop Patrick Pinder, July 7, 2017 at the Chancery Office to present two checks to assist with the Archdiocesan Annual Appeal and the Catholic Cemetery. Seated left to right: Raynor Smith, Deputy Grand Knight, Archbishop Patrick Pinder, Grand Knight, Dwight Glinton. Standing: Trustee, Andrew Albury, Lecturer, Deacon Keith Roberts, Outside Guard, Ondre McKenzie, and Geoffrey Farquharson, Knight.

New 15appointment Aquinas College Alumni Give Back to Their Alma Mater Giving back shows gratitude, and that is what the members of Aquinas classes of 1997 and 1980 believe! The Class of 1977 recently donated computers to the school. The funds used to purchase the computers were collected during their 40th anniversaryheld earlier this year. Both classes also presented cheques to the school. These funds were used to purchase additional computers. Mrs. Shona Moss-Knowles, principal, thanked the alumni for their generous and loyal support to Aquinas College, “Your Aquinas College is stronger because of dedicated alumni like you. Aquinas College is com- mitted to providing top quality education at reasonable and affordable fees. As such donations and Class of 1977 presents computers - From left to right: Shante Hanna, Headgirl, Mr. Randol Dorsett, Dean of Students, Mr. Marcel Sherman, Vice Principal, Debbie Higgs, Class of 1977; Virginia Smith-Curry, Class of 1977 and Christopher Curry, Head Boy. Patrick Pratt Class of 1980 makes cheque presentation.Patrick Pratt has been appointed the Pictured from left toSystems Network Assistant at the Catholic right: Shante Hanna,Board of Education. He is a proud and Headgirl, Mr. Randoldevoted Catholic and has been a member Dorsett, Dean ofof St Joseph's Church for almost twenty- Students, Claudettefive years. Mr. Pratt received his primary Nixon, Class of 1980; Mr.school education at Sts. Francis and Marcel Sherman, ViceJoseph School. He went on to attend Principal, Sonia Nixon,Kingsway Academy. Mr. Pratt left Class of 1980; EdwinKingsway Academy in grade 11 to attend Thompson, Class of 1980high school at Trinity Christian Academy and Christopher Curry,in Lake Worth, Florida. After high school Head Boy.Mr. Pratt moved to Lexington, Kentucky toattend university. He graduated in Cheque Presentation fromDecember 2016 from the University of Class of 1997. PicturedKentucky with a Bachelor’s Degree in from from left to right:Information Communication Technology. Shante Hanna, Headgirl, ;Patrick’s hobbies include playing sports, Mr. Randol Dorsett, Deanworking on computers, cooking and bak- of Students, Calais Chea,ing Class of 1997; Marcel Sherman, Vice Principal,Mr. Pratt shared his enthusiasm for his and Christopher Curry,new position. “I am excited because, not Head Boy.only is it under the Catholic system, but Iknow I will definitely learn a lot.” Headded, “everyone always says, wait untilyou reach the real world, so now that I'mhere, I'm thrilled to see how it is going toplay out hoping all things work in God'sfavor.”

16Father Fintan Alfred Bromenshenkel, OSB (1918-2017)Fr. Fintan Bromenshenkel, OSB, who served Bahamas, joining his older brother, Father Sylvan and the small commu- in the Archdiocese of Nassau during the nity there. Father Fintan began work in the business office of Saint 1980s into the early 2000s died at St. John’s Augustine College, with regular service to the local Bahamian parishes onAbbey, Collegeville, Minnesota on Wednesday, weekends. After the illness and death of Brother Barry Gearman, OSB,September 13, 2017. He was 99 years old. He was (1946-1995), Father Fintan took over the computer operations of thepredeceased by his brother, Fr. Silvan school and monastery. He also enjoyed working outdoors on the groundsBromenshenkel, OSB, who spent virtually his entrie of Saint Augustine Monastery gladly enduring the tropical heat andpriestly ministry here in The Bahamas. humidity.”His funeral was held on Tuesday, September 19 in Saint Johny’s Abbey We are grateful to God for the vocation and ministry of Fr. Fintan.and University Church. Monsignor Preston Moss and Ms. Sonja Knowles May God grant him eternal rest !(principal of St. Augustine’s College) were in attendance. According to theofficial obituary released by St. John’s Abby, it says in part - “In the sum-mer of 1990, Father Fintan looked forward to his “retirement career” byvolunteering as a missionary at Saint Augustine’s Monastery, Nassau,