Bahama Catholic - May/June 2012

INSIDE New appointment - page 3 Youth Pilgrimage - page 12 Apostolic Nuncio’s visit - pages 14-19 THE NEWSPAPER OF THE CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF NASSAUMAY/JUNE 2012 www.archdioceseofnassau.orgApostolic Nuncio makes official visit to The Bahamas His Excellency Archbishop Nicola Girasoli, the newly appointed Apostolic Nuncio for our region made his first official visit to The Bahamas on Tuesday June 12 to Friday June 15, 2012 to formally present his letters of Credence to Dame Marguerite Pindling, Deputy to the Governor General, accrediting him as Apostolic Nuncio-Holy See Ambassador to the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. The presentation took place during a ceremony at Government House on Thursday, June 14, 2012. Archbishop Patrick Pinder and Monsignor Preston Moss accompanied Archbishop Girasoli. Also in attendance were Frs. Glen Nixon, Kendrick Forbes and a number of laity representing the wider Catholic community. While here, The Nuncio visited the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, The Hon. Fred Mitchell, MP. He also met with Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie, MP at the Office of the Prime Minister on Thursday, July 14, 2012.Top photo: His Excellency Archbishop Nicola Girasoli, Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See to The Bahamas pre- The Nuncio was officially introduced to thesented his Letters of Credence to Dame Marguerite Pindling, Deputy to the Governor-General, during a cere- Catholic community on Wednesday, June 13thmony at Government House on Thursday, June 14, 2012,. The Most Reverend Archbishop Patrick Pinder, STD, during Evening Prayer at St. Anselm Church. AndCMG, Archbishop of Nassau, looks on. Bottom photo: Archbishop Nicola Girasoli celebrated Evening Prayer on Thursday, June 14th, he visited with the Sisterswith the local Catholic community at St. Anselm Church on Wednesday, June 13th, 2012. He is pictured below of St. Martin Monastery followed by a tour of St.with Monsignor Preston Moss,PA, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Nassau and Archbishop Pinder at Francis Xavier Cathedral. Later that evening hereception following the Evening Prayer. (See highlights of the Apostolic Nuncio’s visit on pages 14-19) was hosted by Archbishop Pinder and the Clergy of the Archdiocese to dinner at the Hermitage. Pope Benedict XVI appointed His Excellency Archbishop Nicola Girasoli the new Apostolic Nuncio to the region (which includes Antigua and Barbuda, Suriname, Bahamas, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, and Trinidad & Tobago.) Archbishop Girasoli was born July 21, 1957 in Bari, Italy. He is the titular Archbishop of Egnazia Appula. Ordained a priest on June 15, 1980, with incardination in the diocese of Ruvo di Puglia, he possesses a Doctorate in Canon Law and has been in the diplomat- ic service of the Holy See since May 10, 1985. Archbishop Girasoli speaks fluent Italian, English, French and Spanish.

PAGE 2 Exodus Mass Theme: “Stir into flame the gift of God’s Love”ArchbishopSpeaks “May your love, knowledge and goodness be the true fruit of a Catholic Education” Archbi shop Patri ck C. Pi nder, S TD, CMG Gift of God’s Love.” The words are borrowed from It is God’s love for us that caused each of us to exist.The following is the text of Archbishop’s Homily at the Second Letter of St. Paul to Timothy. Each of us is made in the image of God. Now that isThe Exodus Mass on June 6th, 2012 at St. Francis From Paul to Timothy these words are words of truly AWESOME! Because of that, each of us is spe-Xavier Cathedral. encouragement from an older man to a younger one. cial. What does that mean?Readings: You could almost say that Paul was the teacher and There are billions, not millions, billions of people inII Timothy 1:1-3, 6-12 Timothy was the student. the world, yet no two of them are the same. Each of[Psalms 123] “Stir into flame the gift of God that you have through us is different. Each of us is unique. Each one of usMark 12:18-27 the imposition of hands.” (II Timothy 1:6) That is is special. That is truly AWESOME! That love of GodFriends, what Paul the teacher says to his student Timothy. has multiple echoes and reflection in the love of ourThe Exodus Mass is still a very new custom for us. Paul is encouraging Timothy not to lose hope, but to parents and family and teachers and friends.As the students of our Primary Schools conclude the carry on in the work of the ministry in which Paul The next component of that spark in you is learning.first stage of their education we gather in worship to got him started. You have been learning for years now. Your learningmark the moment. Similar celebrations are held in To stir something into a flame, you must have some- is both in the classroom and outside of it. And it isAbaco and Grand Bahama. thing to start with in the first place. It must be some- just beginning. Reflecting the love which createdTo call it an Exodus Mass is to give both a biblical thing smaller than a flame. It must be a spark which you and which nurtures and supports you and con-and symbolic sense to the event. The Exodus was the is fanned into a flame. For young Timothy, it was the tinuing the learning your have started, that is thegreat journey from slavery to freedom. It dominates beginning of his ministry. For you young students it way you ‘stir into flame the gift of God’s love’.the first five Books of the Bible. This great journey ofliberation took many years to complete. In theprocess a whole people were fashioned. In theprocess an entire culture was established.Education, like the Exodus is also a journey. It doesnot happen in a day or a month. It needs years tounfold. Over those years, a character is fashioned, aperson is formed. Information is obtained. Valuesare instilled.Some say it takes a village to raise a child. If that istrue, then the school must be among the most impor-tant places in that village, parents and teachers, themost important persons in the village.For you young students, here today in your nice uni- Archbishop Pinder with students from Xavier Lower School following the Exodus Mass.forms, school is where you have spent much of yourtime over the past six years. During that time you is the beginning of your education. By now you may have a favorite sport. Enjoy it andhave been taught the core subjects which are so There is a song which we will sing later which says: let it keep you fit and healthy. You may have aimportant. Beyond that, you have been exposed to “It only takes a spark to get a fire going. And soon favorite story. Always remember the lesson it teach-much more. Surely you have made friends. Some of all those around can warm up in its glowing.” That es. Every story has a lesson to teach us. If you havethese friends may be part of your life for many years is a very fitting image for us this morning. a favorite song, sing it! Let it lift you up when youto come. Making friends gives you the confidence to As you continue on your journey of education, you feel down. I hope you have a favorite prayer andwork and to live with others. That is very important do not go forward empty handed. You have a spark that you pray it every day. In time you will knowfor us if we are to be “one nation, united in love and within you. That spark is made up of many compo- how important that is.service.” In fact, every true friend is a glimpse of nents. The first is love. Each of us is created by God.God in our lives. Continued on page 5Though you are coming to the end of PrimarySchool, your journey of education is really just begin-ning. Your adventure of learning and living andlearning some more is still in the early stages. Nowonder your theme for today is “Stir into Flame the

PAGE 3AROUND THE ARCHDIOCESE Archbishop’s Statement on Fr. Mel departs Bahamas after 32 years Hurricane Season 2012 Fr. Mel Taylor, OSB came to The Bahamas thirty-two years ago to “spread the GoodTo All Pastors/Administrators- News” but in return he says he was the benefactor of the “Good News”. “I was assigned here to serve, minister and to teach the people of TheBeloved in Christ, Bahamas, and instead they taught me. I have met so many people that I would consider to be at a high level ofWe are once again at the start of the Annual Hurricane Season. This holiness,” says Fr Mel of his time in The Bahamas as ityear even before the first of June, we have already recorded two comes to an end on June 24th, 2012. “I served with nonamed storms. Surely this is a sign that we must be prepared. regrets and I have been truly blessed and enjoyed every part of my assignment.”Our preparation should begin now! The following is a reminder ofwhat we already know: Fr. Mel’s departure also marks the end of an era for the Benedictine Monks who have served here forAt the very least we should maintain the following items in our over 114 years. (Fr. George Wolf OSB returned to Sainthomes – John’s Abbey in 2006 after serving here for 62 years.) •non-perishable food (canned goods) Fr. Mel served at many parishes in New Providence •drinking water, enough to last a week and on every Family Island on weekends, over •prescription medicines, at least a week’s supply the course of his stay in The Bahamas. He •flashlights, batteries and a transistor radio and travelled to the family islands for 16 of the •a manual can opener 32 years in the Bahamas. “I went from one island to the next and enjoyed it immensely. I met so many people who were wonderful and welcoming.” Continued on page 6We should ensure that all our hurricane shutters and the tools nec- Newessary for putting them in place are readily available. Advance appointmentpreparation can eliminate the last minute rush to purchase sup-plies. Having an adequate supply of food, water and medicine is Archbishop Patrick Pinder, STD, CMG, Archbishop Fr. Jude Muokwe, MSPcritical for coping during the difficult days of immediate post hur- of Nassau recently announced the following pastoral Associate Pastorricane recovery, should we come to that. assignment effective Sunday, June 24th, 2012: In addi- tion to St. Thomas More Parish, Fr. Anselm RussellEvery household should have a clear evacuation plan to follow in will be responsible for Sacred Heart Church and Fr.the event of flooding or severe winds which your structure may Jude Muokwe, MSP, associate pastor. Deacon Dennisnot be able to withstand. Make plans to seek shelter with a relative Mackey will serve as the deacon for both parishes.or friend whose home is more secure than your own and who iswilling and able to accommodate you. AnniversariesIf you plan to seek refuge in a designated Hurricane Shelter, first ofall, know where the nearest suitable shelter is. Gather the neces-sary provisions then arrange to go to the shelter with relatives andfriends who also need to seek shelter. Do so before the weatherconditions pose a danger to venturing outdoors.We cannot emphasize enough the importance of being preparedwhether hurricanes actually make landfall on our shores or not.We must never risk being caught unprepared! Most importantly,as we prepare let us trust ourselves to God’s divine providence,praying that we will be spared the destructive forces of hurricanesand storms, trusting that whatever happens all shall be well.Sincerely yours in Christ,Most Reverend Patrick C. Pinder, S.T.D., C.M.G.Archbishop of Nassau Fr. Reginald Demeritte Fr. Anselm Russell Fr. Kendrick Forbes 25 years 15 years 10 years St. Theresa, Exuma St. Thomas More Parish Pastor St. Paul the Apostle

PAGE 4 The newly baptized Catholics in our Archdioecese recently cel- ebrated the Neophyte Mass with Archbishop Patrick Pinder on Neophyte Mass May 29th, 2012 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. This is a time when the neophytes gather to reaffirm their memebership in thePrior to the Neophyte Mass, Leandra Kelly, Fr. Glen Nixon, Rector of St Francis Xavier Church and develop a sense of participation in the life of the churchCathedral and Lawrence Irying pose for Bahama Catholic photographer. and union with The Archbishop. Leandra Kelly and Lawrence Irying are two of these neophytes. They both agree that it was such a joy and wonderful feeling to now receive Holy Communion. Leandra, who grew up in the Baptist faith but attended a Catholic high School, says she decided to become a Catholic because she had a great sense of appreciation for the Mass, observances and ordi- nances of the church.” I love the solemnity of various services. Additionally, I was curious about many practices of the church and once they were explained, I realized that these were things that I wanted to be a part of my daily living”, she says. Lawrence, who was a Methodist says he had lots of “catholic influ- ences”. “I began working in the catholic school system in 1997 under Sisters Annie Thompson and Janis Coakley and all the other sisters while at Sts. Francis and Joseph School. They became mother figures and along the way showed me how true Catholics treated people. Later I met Father Simeon and Father Cooper on the volleyball court, Godfrey who was youth director at the time and of course I met my wife (who is Catholic) in Sister Mary Benedict Pratt’s office. With so many Catholic influences around me it was bound to happen. I was catholic in my mind for years and always wanted to partake in the mass hence the total conversion.” Leandra and Lawrence are both members of St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and plans to become fully involved Catholics. Fr. Thomas Brislin, CP, pastor of Holy Family with Neophytes, Linda Bethel and Edison Joseph.Dandra Miller of St. Thomas More parish with her pastorFr. Anselm Russell.

PAGE 5Exodus Mass 2012Archbishop Pinder: “May your love, knowledge and goodness be the true fruit of a Catholic Education”From page 2 Gratitude to teachers… their efforts have done a great deal to light the spark of learning in you. Gratitude toYour education, like your life itself, is a journey. A friends, their friendship helps to tell us who we reallyjourney means movement. You will now be moving are.from your present school to your new school. Thereis a bit of sadness here. You will be leaving what is As your journey of education continues, the forma-familiar, especially friends and teachers. tion of your personality and character will also con- tinue. It must give you knowledge not just for schoolBut there should be excitement too. You will have a but for life beyond school. On that journey, the sparknew school, new teachers. You can make new friends. of knowledge and goodness in you must never die. ItYou will begin to learn new subjects. Indeed a new must be stirred into flame to give the warmth andworld is opening up for you. That is exciting! light of human kindness to all the people you meet.Although you will be in a new school, the lessons and That would be the true fruit and the great benefit ofthe values and the good habits you already hold will your education in a Catholic school.all be still useful, still necessary. Among those lessonsand values are respect for yourself and for others, As you move on to the next stage of your educationhonesty, hard work, discipline, punctuality, helpful- my wish and prayer for each of you is simple yet pro-ness, love of God, love of country and love of learn- found. May the spark of love, learning and goodnessing. To all this, I will add gratitude… a deep sense of in you continue to grow and continue to glow.thanks and appreciation for parents. Their supportand sacrifice helped to make this day possible. May God bless you on your way!

PAGE 6 Fr. Mel departs Bahamas after 32 years Top left: Fr. Mel with Sacred Heart Parishioners at “Year of favour book launch. Top right: Fr. Mel chats with fel- low priest Monsignor Ambrose MacKinnon, SFM and Fr. Steephen Koola, CMI. Left photo: Karen Rolle and Deacon Samuel Mitchell share a moment at a recent Health Workshop.From page 3 with Fr. for the past six years and says he has remained Deacon Peter Rahming and Fr. Mel at Deacon’s retirement the same person in the little and in big things. “I will Mass.Fr. Mel first came to the Bahamian shores in 1980 and miss him greatly, especially his sermons. Parting willserved as associate pastor of St Francis Xavier be hard, but we must let him go with God speed to his 6 things you did not knowCathedral for one year before returning to the United new assignment.” about Fr. Mel TaylorStates for pastoral assignments. In 1990, he once again “He was a wonderful teacher”, says parishionerreturned to Nassau and was appointed Prior of the St. Angela Moree, “his years of teaching were evident in • He was born in County Sligo, Ireland.Augustine’s Monastery in 1991. He remained in that his approach to his preaching. We were often given a • He came to the United States and entered St. John’sposition until the closure of the Monastery in June homework \"assignment\" based on the liturgy of the Abbey in 1962.2005. He also served at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish on day and encouraged to go to our bibles during the • First assignment was at Chippewa, (an IndianLong Island from 1997-2000, and was appointed pas- week and spend some time contemplating the Word of Reservation in Northern Minnesota.)tor of Sacred Heart Parish in 2006 until the present. God.” Mrs. Moree added that his sermons were never • He taught theology classes, was student chaplain too long but so often she left mass feeling that Fr. Mel and dean of resident students of St. John’sFor the past six years at Sacred Heart Parish Fr. Mel knew what was in her heart and had spoken directly Preparatory School.says that he has tried to build up the church commu- to her that morning. “Fr. Mel will be remembered for • He loves the ocean and all seafood.nity by encouraging parishioners to develop the gifts his sense of humour. It was infectious. Many Sunday • He will miss Bahamian grouper fish.God has given them and to use them to build the mornings he had the congregation laughing with him.church and the community in which they live. Fr. Mel We will miss that. It is now time for Fr. Mel to rejoinbelieves that the future of the archdiocese is bright and his community and we who were blessed by his pres-will be in good hands as he is pleased that new reli- ence at Sacred Heart Parish say thank you and enjoygious orders have arrived. “They bring new insights your retirement.\"from different countries along with their religiousexperiences, their ways of understanding God. I Fr. Mel professed vows as a Benedictine monk on Julybelieve that will supplement the ministry which the 11th, 1963 and was ordained to the sacred priesthoodBenedictine Monks established over the previous on June 3rd, 1967. He is a member of the St. John’syears. Abbey, Collegeville, Minnesota, and will return to the monastery this June. Fr. Mel says he intended to goAs he departs the country, Fr. Mel says the people of into retirement, however his superior told him that heThe Bahamas were wonderful and he would like to be can “still walk, see and hear”, therefore his ministryremembered as a priest who did his best and gave it continues.his all. And, his best he did. According to Mrs. AlfredaJohnson, Fr. Mel has been a great inspiration to her God bless you Fr. Mel and thank you for thirty- twofamily and herself. “He has helped us both emotional- years of dedicated service to the people of Thely and spiritually. Fr. Mel is a very understanding, Bahamas.kind and considerate person.” Mrs. Johnson worked

Meet the Fathers of PAGE 7 The MissionarySociety of St. PaulA call to serve in a foreign landCatholic Missionaries have been serving in The Bahamas since the early1800’s. The Sisters of Charity of Mount St. Vincent-on-the-Hudson, NewYork were the first to arrive on October 28th, 1889, followed by TheBenedictine Monks of St. John’s Abbey, Minnesota, USA in 1891. The Catholiccommunity are forever grateful to these early missionaries have served.Since then other missionaries have came to our shores to serve. BC will featurethese men who have come to serve and evangelize. In these articles they willshare their experiences and adjusting to serving in a Bahamian Catholic com-munity.The Missionary Society of St. Paul (MSP) is featured in this months issue. Fathers of Missionary Society of St. Paul from left to right: Fr. Paschal Ukpeh, pastor,Frs. Paschal Ukpeh, Pastor, Church of the Resurrection, Nduka Uzor, Church of the Resurrection, Fr. Gabriel G. Gomerep, Fr. Jude Muokwe, assistant pastor,Assistant Pastor, St Anselm, Fox Hill, and Henry Osuagwu, Pastor, Blessed Sacred Heart, Henry Osuagwu, pastor, Blessed Sacrament, Harbour Island and Fr. NdukaSacrament Catholic Church were assigned to The Bahamas in 2010. Uzor, assistant pastor, St Anselm.They share their experiences:(BC). How are you adjusting to the Bahamian cul- what I eventually termed the 3Cs. The three Cs (3Cs) can get our churches full on Sundays if all whoseture? invites us not to complain, not to compare and not to names are in the baptismal register make effort to compete - but to be yourself and do your best. I can tell attend the Eucharistic Service.A. Fr. Paschal – I can confidently say am almost 90% you that I have to make some life changing decisionsBahamian. Culture is a product of the human person, in order to accommodate this reality. (BC) How is the Mass celebrated differently?so coming from the motherland the cultural heritageof the Bahamian society is not totally alien to me. (BC) How would you compare the worship style? A. Fr. Paschal – I would say the participation from theHowever, if not a Bahamian it is not the same thing as congregation at home is more active then when I havea Bahamian. Looking at the language for instance, I'll A. Fr. Paschal – The church's liturgy is the same, but experienced here, in The Bahamas.say I am still learning the rules for \"talkin Bahamian\" coming from a more vibrant catholic country, I amwhich is marked by clever and prolific use of proverbs really trying to slow down to adjust to and accommo- Fr. Nduka – You could see people dancing in church inand a host of delightful metaphorical expressions; date the slow space in The Bahamas. With regards to Nigeria, as well as, people move to the front of the\"you is a doctor\". Secondly, the social nature of the the Mass, I will say the participation from the congre- church to put in their collections.Bahamian society tends to see the priest as an extraor- gation over there is more active than what we experi- I served a greater population of people in Nigeria thandinary human person- I am also trying to adjust to this ence here. In my parish at home I served approximate- I am serving here now. There is only one languagereality as well. ly 5,000 persons (children not included) so there is a here basically as opposed to Nigeria that has so many big gap. languages.Fr. Nduka – “You get what you give”- If you give love,you get love in return. There are basic requirements of Fr. Nduka – The Catholic church is basically the same Fr. Henry – As far as I know Mass is not celebrated dif-living in any human community; love, understanding, in terms of the celebration of the sacraments but the ferently anywhere in the world, unless the diocese isability to forgive when hurt, giving people a second particular style of worship will always reflect the spir- not under the Latin rite. But so long the diocese fol-chance and realizing that I am not perfect and all these ituality of a people and their pastor. The Nigerian lows the path of Rome; they are bound to follow themust be embedded in a spirit of prayer. These have community is basically a celebration community and basic liturgical formulas and methods for a typicalmade it easier for me to adjust to the Bahamian cul- this easily reflects in the worship style. Nigeria also Catholic Mass. Though there might be slight differ-ture. Remember, we all are one human family has different dialects and though English is our lingud ences in the songs or some liturgical gestures. Fordescended from Adam and Eve. franca, we celebrate masses and even the sacraments example, here in the Bahamas and I guess in some in our native dialects. This is because all Nigerians are other dioceses in the west, during offertory peopleFr. Henry – I guess I am doing great. Trying to live out from different tribes. Nigeria has three main tribes; stay on their seats to offer their money in the collectionmy Christian/priestly life among the beautiful people Igbo, Hausa and Yoruba. box. But in Africa the reverse is the case; parishionersof God. It is challenging though’ but as the Bahamians during offertory leave their seats and in a very sym-would say” Can’t complain”. Well each mission is Fr. Henry - I came from the most populous black bolic fashion display dancing steps to offer their giftsunique with its challenges. Bahamas is no exempt nation in the world where the Faith is very strong and to God at the altar. So you might see such differencesfrom this. My first challenge was to learn how to be at active. An average Nigerian is very religious. It is here and there.home with the new environment. In order to do this, I unheard of that one missed Mass or Service on Sundayhad to start with a “beginners mind” and to avoid without any justifiable reason. Here too (Bahamas) we Continued on page 20

PAGE 8 Sacrament of Confirmation around the ArchdioceseSt Francis Xavier Cathedral St. Anselm St. Bede St. Thomas MoreChurch of The Resurrection Holy Family

Sacrament of Confirmation PAGE 9 around the ArchdioceseHoly Redeemer & Our Lady of Mount Zion, Sacred Heart New Bight, Cat IslandSt. Joseph St. Paul The Apostle St. Cecilia Our Lady of The Holy Souls

PAGE 10Parishes St. John Chrysostom, Fresh Creek, Andros Parishes of Long Island.Archbishop congratulates John Thompson, he was among the fifty-seven candi- WANTED:dates confirmed on June 3rd, 2012. His sponsor Eulie Elliot is also pictured. ardent women who want toJune 3rd, 2012, Feast of The Most Holy communion for the first time in twenty- serve God, church and countryTrinity was a special day for John five years on May 20th, 2012. A day heThompson. He was among the fifty- says he will cherish. When Sister Marva Coakley devoted herself to religious life in 1977, herseven candidates confirmed in St. Francis Benedictine religious order had 22 sisters, and there were two convents inXavier Cathedral. What’s special about Being confirmed at his age he Nassau — Saint Martin (which is now Saint Martin Monastery) and the Sistersthis confirmand? He is fifty + years says was not a factor. “I had one goal and of Charity. Today the Sisters of Charity Convent is no more and the number ofyoung. that was to complete the entire process of sisters at Saint Martin has dwindled to 11 Bahamians and one foreigner. becoming a fully initiated Catholic – even Thompson was raised in the Methodist if it meant doing the sacraments of Holy As the numbers dwindled, the ages soared. The youngest Bahamian nun isfaith. And as youngster he received First Communion and confirmation for a sec- Sister Marva who is now 57. Sister Vernice Wilson at 82 is the oldest. A 32-year-Holy Communion and was confirmed in ond time at my age. He added that it was old Filipino who transferred from the Philippines is the youngest nun in thethe Methodist church. However, as an important for him do it the right way. “It convent, but she is not Bahamian.adult he left the Methodist church but was not a huge deal to me, I just did whatoccasionally attended Mass with his wife I had to do,” Thompson says. “I felt spe- In the United States the count has fallen from about 180,000 in 1965 to 55,000who is a Catholic and their children (who cial and “extraordinary”. last year, according to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate.were raised in the faith). “There weremany Sunday mornings I felt incomplete, Now that the process is finished The number of nuns and sisters plunged through the years as more careerempty and left out because I couldn’t and Thompson feels “complete” and will opportunities for women opened and sisterhood became less viable.receive the Eucharist,” he says. not be left out any longer, he plans to Generally, a nun lives a cloistered, contemplative life in a monastery while sis- become an active parishioner in his ters live and work within their communities. After years of encouragement parish, St. Joseph Church. He says that hefrom family and friends in addition to his is interested in volunteering as a lector – In the United States and Canada, convents and monasteries aren’t leaving theyearning to receive the Eucharist, making so Monsignor Culmer take note! future of their orders to prayer and chance, and have turned to the Internetthe decision to join the RCIA programme and social media to attract women who feel the calling to serve God and theirand become a fully initiated Catholic was Congratulations Mr. John Thompson for community.not a difficult one. Thompson received making that big decision. God bless. Like monasteries and convents around the world, Saint Martin Convent is fac- ing challenges attracting youthful Bahamian women to the order and have resorted to different methods as opposed to word of mouth to try to attract women. The challenges “We are most certainly facing the same challenges as convents the world over,” said Sister Marva Coakley, the director of vocation at Saint Martin Monastery. “The population is aging. The majority of the sisters are in their 70s with the youngest at 32, and she’s not a Bahamian.” The urgency of the situation was even addressed by Pope Benedict on World Day of Prayer in April, as he urged young people to recognize that they are a gift to the church and not sell themselves short. The pope hoped young peo- ple would recognize there is a need for nuns and that they have something to give, that they should give themselves up for the love of God, and give them- selves up unselfishly so that other people may live. Continued on page 13

PAGE 11Wanted: ardent women who want to serve God, church and country prioress (mother superior); Sister on what He has planned for them. Agatha Hunt is retired and most “As much as we think we have control, times can be found in the chapel and are doing all we think we can do, in quiet prayer to make sure her God is still in control,” she said. sisters all stay safe. While her counterparts around the world The vows are making use of technology to reach young women, Sister Marva said she As a member of the order, they all desires to use technology more in foster- take vows of poverty, chastity ing vocation, but she said it has been a and obedience. challenge for her. It’s her goal to have the monastery’s lay group members (women “Our community is a group of and men) who have the expertise assist women seeking a deeper aware- her in using the media. There are approx- ness of God’s presence in our imately 50 lay members. They do the lives and in our community. same things that the sisters do except the Everyone works hand in hand, lay members live with their families. sharing meals, prayer, work and conversion,” she said. About the sistersThe Sisters of St Martin from left to right: Sister Mary Josephine Albury, OSB, Sister Agatha And she said all of their needs are Our way of life is not restricted to anyHunt, OSB,Sister Cecilia Albury, OSB,Sister Vernice Wilson, OSB. Back row: Sister Marva being met. She can go to the hair- one ministry. The Rule of BenedictCoakley, OSB, Sister Clare Rolle, OSB – director of the Samaritan Ministry, Sister Janis Coakley, dresser, she can purchase shoes affirms both manual and intellectualOSB, Sister Mary Benedict Pratt, OSB — Prioress, Sister Jacintha Neely, OSB, Sister Annie and clothes or anything she work as essential to a balanced life. Our small community of members are educa-Thompson, OSB and Sister Ena Albury, OSB. wants because they all get an tors, administrators, pastoral workers, healthcare givers, homemakers, mentors equal allowance — no matter and spiritual guiders.From page 10 away from the sisterhood. In the 60s and what job they hold. But if they History 70s when she showed an interest in the have a special need they can make aAs vocation director, Sister Marva tries to religious order, she was required to com- request of their superior. On October 3, 1937, a new possibilityrecruit by going into the churches and plete high school and work at least one “We are our own women and we do our opened up for young Catholic women inholding seminars to inform people about year. But today she said things are sim- own thing. I manage my own money and The Bahamas when three local youngreligious life. Opportunities are also pro- ply not the same. if we want something special we can women of New Providence answered thevided for people to get a chance to see save up for whatever we want,” she said. call to enter religious life.what the sisters do and to meet them. She also said while the life has stipula- “None of our nuns step out looking shab- The women were formed and guided bySaint Martin Monastery currently has a tions and a lot of discipline, they are not by. We all look good.” the Sisters of Charity from Mount St.come-and-see program at least twice missing what most people think they are If young women have a drawing on their Vincent, New York and the Benedictineyearly. An exhibition of the sisters at — freedom. She said everything the sis- heart or soul to religious order in joining priests from St. John's Abbey inwork is set up for viewing and people are ters have is in common and they all go to the sisterhood, Sister Marva said they Minnesota.invited to experience evening vespers prayers three times per day — at 6:30 have to have finished high school and(prayers). Afterwards they are invited to a.m. at noon and at 5:15 p.m. After worked at least a year. Training is done In 1962, the Sisters of St. Martin joinedpartake in a social, with goodies baked evening prayers they do not go “galli- right at Saint Martin Monastery. the Benedictine Community of St.by the sisters. It also gives people the vanting”. They go to dinner and those Sister Marva has celebrated 25 years in Benedict’s Convent of St. Joseph,opportunity to ask questions and experi- who have evening meetings attend them the monastery and she said she has no Minnesota. They became a part of a greatence the silence of the convent and the and then return home. regrets. She said over the years some monastic community with a traditioncalmness of the sisters’ lives. “The misconception is what they think people tried the monastic life but did not that dates its origin to the sixth centurySister Marva, who grew up on Harbour they will be missing, and they think they stay. Even though they did not, she said following the rule and customs of its will be missing freedom. But, you have she respected them for it. founder, St. Benedict and his twin sister Scholastica, in the Caves of Subiaco, Italy.Island and is the principal of St. Bede’s your freedom,” she said. “When I decid- “I prefer them to leave even though they It became an independent monastery inPrimary School, said it was that calmness ed to go into the convent I knew there may have had years of training at the 1994.of life that attracted her to the convent. were going to be rules and regulations expense of the convent. I prefer them toShe said she had a yearning, and she and that everyone would not be doing leave rather than to be miserable there, Philosophywanted to teach. their own thing, but we do have some- because it’s not a jail, nor is it a house of thing to say about what we do, and we refuge. It’s freedom,” she said. The Benedictine Sisters of St. Martin“On Harbour Island, there were only are out to do our tasks, which is our min- Prospective sisters she said should have Monastery are a monastic community ofwhite sisters (Sisters of Charity). I liked istry. “ a love of God and others, and an open- women, seeking to follow Christ throughhow the sisters carried themselves and Sister Clare Rolle works with the ness to be spirit-led and having an inter- a vowed life of stability, fidelity to thethe things they did for other people in Samaritan Ministry; Sister Annie est in serving the church. monastic way of life and obedience. Wethe community, and I wanted to do Thompson, Sister Agnes Johnson and There motto is Ora et Laboura, which strive to be rooted in Jesus Christ, oursomething like that. Going to Aquinas, I Sister Janice Coakley bake the cookies Sister Marva said means to work and Benedictine heritage and the tradition ofmet another group of sisters (Dominican and tarts the monastery is famous for; pray. the Roman Catholic Church.nuns), but they were all doing the same Sister Ena Albury works at the hospital Submitted by Shavaughn Mossthings, and they had that quietness about and does visiting; Sister Cecilia Albury Saint Martin Monastery will celebrate 75them that I liked,” she said. takes care of the elderly at St. Joseph’s years in October as a religious communi-But she believes the technological Daycare Center; Sister Mary Benedict is ty. Sister Marva said God has broughtadvances of the world and the opportu- the retired superintendent of Catholic them this far and their fate will dependnities that now exist have pulled women Schools, but serves as the monastery’s

PAGE 12 Archbishop Pinder leads Archdiocsean Youth Pilgrimages in New Providence and Long Island The annual Archdiocesan Youth Pilgrimage was held in New Providence on May 19th, 2012 and on Long Island on July 9th, 2012. It is a day the young Catholics spent with the Archbishop. and at each stop they prayed and the Archbishop gave a brief explanation of a particular aspect of the faith. During this pilgrimage the young people visited six parishes in New Providence and seven in Long Island. A Pilgrimage is a journey a pilgrim makes to a sacred place for the purpose of venterating it or to ask for heavenly aid, and uti- mately to come to know God better.Top photo: Pilgrim receives her pilgrims cross during EveningPrayer on Friday, May 18th, 2012 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral.Bottom photo shows Pilgrims pence offering at St. Paul the ApsotelChurch. Top photo: pilgrims receives stamps from Jay Cartwright, Director of Youth for their journals as the leave the church. Archbishop Pinder leads pilgrims on rosary walk in New Providence.

PAGE 13 Free time at Church of The Resurrection. What the pilgrimsPilgrims pose for camera showing their are saying about theArchdiocesan Youth T shirts, pilgrim cross and pin. Pilgrimage “I have learned not only about pilgrimages, but my Catholic faith as well. The Pilgrimage helped me to find myself through silence, prayer and meditation. I learned something new at each parish we visit- ed and will surely use all of the wonderful gifts we received, such as the beautiful rosary and the miraculous medal. I recommend that every young person make a pilgrimage. It will open your heart, soul and mind and help you grow closer with God. I am truly blessed for having been given the chance to make this pilgrimage.” - Sophie Knowles, St Anselms “This pilgrimage has taught me a lot in a few hours and I very much enjoyed spending that day with his grace, Archbishop Pinder. I realized where I am at with my relationship with God and learnt ways to improve it. I also, met a num- ber of young people from other parishes. We developed friendships and enjoyed our time together. I would recommend any young parish- ioner of our Archdiocese to attend this pilgrim- age.” - Kwame’ Glinton, St. Cecilia’s Parish “I learned a great deal about my Catholic faith. I really enjoyed myself during this pilgrimage, vis- iting various Catholic churches on the island, meeting new people, and interacting with Archbishop Pinder. Oh, by the way, the food was great too !! -Letitia A. Ellis, St AnselmsPilgrims with Archbishop Pinder in Long Island. Also pictured at left is Fr. William “Doug” Grant, pastor “Overall the pilgrimage was a very enlighteningof Sts. Peter and Paul, Clarence Town, Long Island. -photos by Jeanie Mclean experience, and I was lucky enough to share this experience with both my sister and with one of Pilgrims outside Our my good friends Alex. We both enjoyed getting Lady of Immaculate to know Archbishop Pinder and other youths Conception Parish, the from the various parishes in Nassau. We shared last stop of the Long many jokes on the bus and at the lunch table. Island pilgrimage. One of the things I enjoyed the most was the rosary walk, although it was hard to hear the Archbishop, we managed. I also liked visiting and praying in the different parishes in Nassau. I thought that the few minutes of reflection were a little too long at times, because for the first few parishes I almost fell asleep, but I stayed awake by drawing things that I saw in the different parishes. I not only thought the experience on the whole was great but the food was excellent, a real typical Bahamian meal! – Audrey Fellay, Sacred Heart

PAGE 14 Apostolic Nuncio makes official visit to The Bahamas Presentation of Letters of credence at Government House Archbishop Girasoli, in his address during the cere- mony, acknowledged that the Holy See-Vatican and the Commonwealth of The Bahamas enjoy good relations and pledged to continue to strengthen the bilateral diplomatic relations.Following the presentation of his Credentials, Archbishop Nicola Cheers! Archbishop Nicola Girasoli propose toast during reception followingGirasoli presented a gift to Dame Marguerite Pindling, Deputy the presentation of his credentials at Government House on Wednesday,to the Governor General. Bottom photo: Fr. Kendrick Forbes June 13th, 2012. He is also pictured at bottom sharing a moment with Damechats with the Nuncio and Archbishop Pinder at reception. Marguerite Pindling, Monsignor Moss and Archbishop Pinder at reception.

PAGE 15 Left photo: Thomas and Pauline Dean and Mary Sweetnam. Top photo: Marjorie Davis and Mrs. Menida Wisdom, pictured in back- ground are John and Sueann Dunkley.Archbishop Patrick Pinder, Archbishop Nicola Girasoli and the Ambassador of the Sovereign Archbishop Patrick Pinder, Archbishop Nicola Girasoli and Mr.Military Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta Mr. Frank Crothers. Bradley Roberts.(photo by Kris Ingraham) - (photo by Peter Ramsay)Left photo: His Excellency Archbishop Nicola Girasoli, Apostolic Nuncio visited the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, The Hon. Fred Mitchell, MP. Dr.Patricia Rodgers, Permanent Secretary is pictured at left. Right photo: Archbishop Girasoli also met with Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Perry G. Christie, MP at theOffice of the Prime Minister.

PAGE 16Evening Prayerat St.Anselm Church During Evening Prayer at St. Anselm tempted to close our arms because of personal Church, Archbishop Nicola Girasoli told reasons, for example when something happens the congregation that one aspect of his in our families or in our communities. However, visit to The Bahamas, as Apostolic Nuncio is to he implored us to forgive and forget, because if encourage the faithful to “recharge their spiritu- we don’t, we will not be able to move forward. al batteries”. “We need to keep our spiritual bat- teries fully charged to so we can smile, transmit He assured those in attendance that, “God our Catholic faith, and be good examples,” he always forgives us, never judges us and loves us said. unconditionally.” The Nuncio began his address expressing appre- The Apostolic Nuncio concluded his address by ciation, on behalf of the Vatican, for what the urging the faithful to remain united to the local Catholic community, in unity with the Archbishop and Clergy and to love them, even Archbishop and clergy, have done in the when we disagree with them, because they need Archdiocese and will continue to do. spiritual support and Christian love given with open arms. Following Evening Prayer Making reference to the crucifix in St. Anselm, Archbishop Girasoli greeted the faithful at a he noted that, “Jesus’ arms are always open and reception in The Deacon Leviticus Adderley when we look at the cross we feel his love and Hall. mercy. Therefore, the Archbishop Girasoli invited us all to always keep our arms open. He said that sometimes we are

PAGE 17Evening Prayer at St.Anselm Church

PAGE 18 Visit toSt. Martin Monastery

PAGE 19Tour of the Cathedral

PAGE 20 A call to serve in a foreign land Meet the Fathers of Family Life in the Bahamas and in fact in many parts The Missionary of the world is facing very difficult and daring chal-Society of St. Paul on nature! Cheers! lenges. The basic structure of a Family where chil- Fr. Nduka – It is my dren grow up under the watchful care of their par- greatest desire to bring ents is fast dwindling. Part of our mission here in the Bahamas is to emphasize the importance of the the African communi- Family and to encourage young people to make a change in this direction. I grew up in a very tradition-From page 7 tarianism to bear in The Bahamas as this would al family setting surrounded by the love of Mum and Dad. They taught my other sibling’s life valuable les- improve the way we treat one another and aid the sons and me. I guess you cannot beat that. We want the Family to be back again in the Bahamas to its nation’s fight of crime. I also wish to promote respect original beauty.(BC. Are there in similarities in the food? Do you for the elderly, as that is an avenue that will aid thehave a favourite Bahamian dish? Africans love respect and so we encourage young easy transmission of values from the elderly to the people to obey their parents and other constituted authorities. Again, I must state that respect is a two- young. I advocate for us all to always try to forgive way thing. While it is important that the youngA. Fr. Paschal – the food is basically the same except one another each time there is a hurt and I crave for respect their elders, elders should also try to behavejust the mode of preparation that differs. My favorite a greater spirit of understanding among one another. in a respectable manner.is stew fish (grouper) About The Missionary Society of St. Paul (MSP) - Fr. Henry – I usually tell people that Africa has so The Missionary Society of St. Paul was founded by HisFr. Nduka – Most of the foods are similar save for dif- much to offer not only to the universal Church but Eminence, Dominic Cardinal Ekandem in 1977 and estab-ferences in preparations. With an open mind, one can also to the world at large. As African Missionaries we lished by the Catholic Bishops conference of Nigeria.try as much as one can. Johnny Cake is my specialty. come with our African sense of Community, Family Today missionaries serve the universal Church in Malawi, South Africa, Chad, Nigeria, Cameroon, Liberia, The and respect. In Africa, we believe that one discovers Gambia, Sudan, Botswana, United Kingdom, Sweden,Fr. Henry - There are great similarities and very few and lives out his or her identity in the community. In Italy, Germany, United States of America, Canada,differences. The Latin people say; ”qui appelentur a way I exist because you exist. Individuals try to be Bahamas, Grenada and Ireland.vobis. Meaning “eat what is placed before you”. I eat their brothers and sisters keeper. In the course of ourbasically anything eatable here in the Bahamas. I love pastoral ministry we try to encourage the people to Rev. Fr Jude Muokwe, MSP and Rev Fr. Gabriel G.Curry Chicken especially after a good Sunday Mass. learn to be their brothers and sisters keeper through Gomerep, MSP were recently assigned to The Bahamas.(BC). Experience you bring…. identifying with each other both in good and bad times. Things like birthdays, anniversaries, gradua- tion, baptisms and even funerals create opportunitiesFr. Paschal – As a believer in the future of our young for sharing and communal living. Also we encouragepeople, I encourage the young people in my parish to parishioners not to see the Sunday Mass as a privateget involved in the churches activities. They are the thing but as a community activity. Thus, membersfuture of the church and The Bahamas. Change they are encouraged to bring someone along while com-say is constant, but much resisted. With regards to ing to the Church or any parish function.the experience am bringing, I will say, \"let us bring ina little inculturation into our worship, Grace builds The Family is the soul and the bedrock of the society. NEW AVAILABLE AT CATHOLIC BOOKSTORE TEL • 325-6855

PAGE 21Antilles Catholic Bishops pledge solidarity with Church and People of Suriname during Annual MeetingBishops of The Antillies Episcopal Conference (AEC), Archbishop Patrick Pinder, president of the (AEC) is pictured fifth from the left.The Antillies Episcopal Conference (AEC) of Bishops recently support of the AEC as they seek development, peace Spain; Bishop Jason Gordon, Bishop of Bridgetown,held their annual Plenary Meeting on April 22-16, 2012 in and justice in their country.\" Barbados and Kingstown, StGeorgetown, Guyana and released a statement on a pledge of sol- Vincent, and Bishop Kenneth Richards, of St. John's-idarity with Church and People of Suriname. See the full text of The 56th Annual Plenary Meeting (APM) of the Basseterrestatement below. Bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) To the added joy of a packed Cathedral Emeritus held this year, in Georgetown, Guyana, came to a Bishop of Georgetown Benedict Singh also participat-In the spirit of collegiality and Christian fraternity most successful end on Thursday April 26, 2012. ed in the inaugural mass of the APM on 22 April.Awhich characterized the Annual Plenary Meeting A high point of the days of meetings was joint warm welcome was also extended to Most Rev.(APM) of the Roman Catholic Bishops of the Antilles Evening Prayer with the Anglican Clergy of the Alfred Hughes, Archbishop Emeritus of NewEpiscopal Conference (AEC) in Georgetown, Guyana Province of the West Indies. The AEC Bishops and Orleans, who directed a most fruitful two day retreat22-26 April, 2012, the bishops expressed solidarity the Anglican Clergy by happy coincidence were host- for the Bishops on the themes of Episcopal spirituali-with the church and people of neighbouring ed at the same hotel in Georgetown just across the ty and effective and fraternal collegiality, cooperationSuriname. In their resolution, The Roman Catholic road from the Roman Catholic Cathedral of the and solidarity among bishops and in service of theBishops “noted with concern the adoption by the Immaculate Conception. Hence, the opportunity people.National Assembly of Suriname of an amendment to was grasped to pray jointly for the people of the The APM addressed many wide ranging issues relat-the 1992 Amnesty Law which could have a direct region and for Christian Unity. ed to the pastoral care by the Bishop for the region.impact on the trial of the current President and other Of special note are the following:co-defendants for their alleged involvement in the President of the AEC, Most Rev. Patrick Pinder,extra-judicial execution of 15 political opponents in Archbishop of Nassau, Bahamas, in his opening 1. Archbishop Robert Rivas, Chair of the YouthDecember 1982, and any other trials that might seek address of the working sessions of the Meeting of Commission, informed the AEC Bishops that thejustice in cases of human rights violations committed Catholic Bishops extended a warm welcome to those final preparation are being made for the AEC Youthduring the period covered by the amnesty law.” Bishops who were attending their first APM of the Assembly (AECYA)in St. Lucia, July 20-29, 2012 AEC. Among whom were: under the theme, “Your Word is a Lamp for My StepThe Bishops added that they “join many other inter- - Archbishop Nicola Girasoli, newly assigned and a Light for My Path...Ps. 119 (118):105 with a subnational human rights and religious groups in urging Apostolic Nuncio representative of the Vatican to the theme: The Word of God Shaping the Lives of Ourthat the judiciary of Suriname continue to fulfill its countries of the Antilles region Youth.obligation to uphold human rights law and assures - Three of the four newly appointed Bishops withinthe people and church in Suriname of the prayerful the Region: Archbishop Joseph Harris, of Port of Continued on page 22

PAGE 22 Antilles Catholic Bishops pledge solidarity with Church and People of Suriname during Annual MeetingFrom page 21 The AEC bishops, at their Annual Plenary Meeting in communications to deepen the communications Georgetown, Guyana, join many other international capacity of the Church in the region.There will be days in parishes 20-24 July, an opening human rights and religious groups in urging that the d. Strengthen the capacities of dioceses to developceremony for the Assembly proper on 24 July, days judiciary of Suriname continue to fulfill its obligation working relationships with the secular media in theirof catechesis 25-29 and the Closing Mass on 29 July to uphold human rights law and assures the people dioceses to facilitate the evangelization of the mediaduring which the ordination to the priesthood will and church in Suriname of the prayerful support of and development of society.take place of St Lucian Rev. Cleophus Joseph The the AEC as they seek development, peace and justice e. Perform any communications tasks assigned byArchdiocese of Castries in collaboration with in their country.\" the Bishops of the AEC.AECYA is preparing to host 10,000 persons on this 5. As a corollary to developing communicationoccasion. 3. The AEC Bishops expressed concern at the wors- capacity the AEC will launch a pilot project forOther details for the Youth Assembly 2012 can be ening levels of violence in the region. They also rec- Virtual Learning Community of Faith Formationfound on the website: www.aecy.lc or on Facebook ognized efforts made by several dioceses to raise (VLCFF) in collaboration with the University ofpage: www.facebook.com/aecya2012 consciousness to address this serious situation. The Dayton. The plan is for this project to get off theImmediately after the AECYA, Castries will also be Justice and Peace Committee of the AEC will work ground in September 2012 with number of ourhosting a Vocation Directors Formation Programme toward organizing an AEC Conference on Domestic Dioceses.30 July-3 August for Vocations promoters from Violence which the Justice and Peace Commission 6. The APM also reviewed plans for the holding of aacross the AEC. (JPC) of Guyana has offered to host. Meeting of diocesan Finance Officers (CADFO) May2. The Bishops, reflecting on the current situation in 28-30, 2012 in St. George's, Grenada and the biennialSuriname, approved a statement of solidarity with 4. The Bishops established an Ad Hoc Committee on meeting of the Caribbean Association of Catholicthe Church and People of Suriname, as follows: Communication to be Chaired by Bishop Jason Teachers (CACT) 28 July-5 August in Mandeville,\"The Roman Catholic Bishops of the Antilles Gordon so as to effectively facilitate the work of the JamaicaEpiscopal Conference note with concern the adop- AEC. The Committee will accomplish the following:tion by the National Assembly of Suriname of an a. Develop an IT platform for the AEC to develop The President and Bishops of the AEC thanked theamendment to the 1992 Amnesty Law which could effective means of collaboration between the bishops Bishop Francis Alleyne of Georgetown for the warmhave a direct impact on the trial of the current and AEC Commissions in an ongoing way. hospitality and friendship extended to them byPresident and other co-defendants for their alleged b. Facilitate coordination between communications Guyanese Catholics and so many others during theirinvolvement in the extra-judicial execution of 15 departments of (Arch) dioceses of the AEC to devel- 56th Annual Meeting and asked that he convey thesepolitical opponents in December 1982, and any other op the communications potential of the church in the sentiments to the Clergy, Religious and Faithful oftrials that might seek justice in cases of human rights AEC region. the diocese.violations committed during the period covered by c. Facilitate the formation of Catholics, Bishops,the amnesty law. priests, religious, laity in the spiritually and skills of - Georgetown Guyana 27 April 2012Conference of the Antilles Diocesan Fiscal Officers Sixth Biennial Meeting Opening Mass Homily by Archbishop PinderEditor’s Note: The Sixth Biennial Conference of standing in for the local Ordinary,the Antilles Diocesan Fiscal Officers Bishop Vincent Darius, O.P. who is out(CADFO), was held in Grenada from the 21st – of the Diocese of health reasons. We25th May 2012. This year also marked the 10th pray for the success of his medicalAnniversary of this organization. Archbishop treatment and for his continued recov-Patrick C. Pinder, Episcopal Moderator deliv- ery. We have been made to feel quite atered the homily at the opening Mass. home and among friends by the genial words of Msgr. Cyril Lamontagne,Genesis 1:26-31 Vicar General of this Diocese. Fr. FelixActs of the Apostles 2:42-47 Nuabuchi, O.P. Administrator of thisMatthew 5:13-16 Cathedral has also been most hos- pitable.Dear friends and fellow travelers on Archbishop Patrick C. Pinder, Episcopal Moderator of the Conference of thethis pilgrimage of life and of faith. I Antilles Diocesan Fiscal Officers (CADFO) is pictured with the delegates at the I would like to thank the site prepara-welcome you all to this liturgy. With recent Biennial Conference of the Antilles Diocesan Fiscal Officers (CADFO) in tion team headed by Ms. Denisethis act of worship we begin the sixth Grenada from the 21st – 25th May 2012. There were 13 Dioceses represented by 15 George.biennial meeting of the Conference of delegates including our Mrs. Renee Knowles, financial Officer and Mr. Anthonythe Antilles Diocesan Fiscal Officers. It Hanna, assistant financial officer. Continued on page 23is as the Episcopal Moderator for thisgroup that I welcome you to this eventindeed to this week of events. In welcoming you I am also

PAGE 23Conference of the Antilles Diocesan Fiscal Officers Sixth Biennial MeetingFrom page 22 “...as Diocesan Fiscal Officers As Diocesan Fiscal Officers you are called to you are called to bring bring discipline, transparency, honesty, accounta-Thanks to all the families and households who discipline, transparency, bility, best practices, and responsibility to the usehave so graciously agreed to host the delegates honesty, accountability, of Diocesan financial and material resources. So,and participants. We are pleased that Fr. best practices” if the Acts of your Apostleship were writtenClifton Harris, O.P. has accommodated our today, what would it say?daily sessions in the parish hall at Blessed - Archbishop PinderSacrament Parish on the beautiful Grand Anse. This is a question for us as we spend the next fewMost of our presenters are local. We look for- of Matthew with a variant in the 19th chapter of the days reflecting on the theme “Stewardship:ward to all the presenters and their contribu- Gospel of Luke1. The gifts of talents vary. One Gifted and Responsible.”tions over these next few days. receives five, another two and another only one. What we as good stewards should aim to hear in In the month of October of this year, there In a very short time we have come to assessment of our stewardship is this: “Well done, will be a World Synod of Bishops in Rome. Theappreciate the warm hospitality of the people my good and faithful servant. Since you were faith- theme of this Synod is the New Evangelization. Inof this place so affectionately known as the “Spice ful in small matters come share your master’s joy.”2 that same month of October, the Holy Father willIsland.” open a Year of Faith. What is most important is how we use the Our delegates and participants come from gifts given to us. The measure of our stewardship is The New Evangelization was made popularBermuda in the north to Suriname in the south and a how responsible we are with the gifts given to us. by Blessed John Paul II. Its intention is to revitalizenumber of places in-between. the faith in those nations and cultures where the As we gather for this event, we find our- faith, once vibrant, has now grown lukewarm. This The theme of this meeting is “Stewards: selves nearing the end of the Easter Season. This sea- thought brings into powerful focus the Gospel weGifted and Responsible.” Stewards and especially son of fifty days, from Easter Sunday to Pentecost, is heard proclaimed tonight.Stewardship are terms and concepts which have been a time when we are invited to reflect at length onhaving a fair amount of currency in Church circles of what is means to claim and to believe that Christ is The Gospel uses the images of saltlate. This renewed emphasis on Stewardship is an risen from the dead. and light. Our salt must not lose its taste nor musteffort, not to create but to recover a basic mindset of our light be hidden under a basket. This is importantour faith. Among the earliest believers, the effort to for all of us. It is especially important for our express and to explain what the Resurrection could Diocesan Fiscal Officers.To begin to guide us and to focus our reflection on mean seized upon Psalm 118. “The stone the buildersthe theme, we have before us some words from the rejected has become the cornerstone. By the Lord has As we conclude this Easter Season, we comefirst chapter of the first book of the Bible, Genesis. It this been done; It is wonderful in our eyes.”3 to the celebration of Pentecost, the feast of the gift ofis the story of creation. One important lesson we the Holy Spirit. Let us pray that the Church every-need to take away from this story is that out of noth- The risen Christ is the stone rejected by the where be given the experience of a new Pentecost.ing, God created everything. There is much more to builders which has become the cornerstone. Thethe story than this of course. For example, we learn risen Christ is to be the cornerstone in your life and For Diocesan Fiscal Officers maythat God created male and female in the divine in mine. that new Pentecost be an even deeper commitmentimage. And God looked at everything made and to being, in the fullest sense, Stewards: fully giftedfound it all very good. However it is key for us to During the Easter Season, our constant com- and truly responsible.recall that God created everything out of nothing. panion at worship is the Acts of the Apostles. It records for us, perhaps in very optimistic terms, the 1 See Matthew 25:14-20 and Luke 19:11-27. All that we have and are, we have basically life of the earliest believers. They were filled with 2 Matthew 25:21-23.inherited. It is all essentially a gift. Whether it be our zeal and commitment for the faith, under the influ- 3 Psalm 118: 22-23.natural talents or our worldly goods, from the start ence of the Resurrection and the gift of the Holyall is gift. Spirit. Such was their zeal and commitment that, in the face of sometimes daunting obstacles, ordinary To be sure, we are not all gifted to the same people did extraordinary things.extent or with the same amount. That is the reality,but that is not most important. What is most impor-tant is this. We can use our gifts, whatever they are,wisely and creatively or we can squander our giftsand diminish them.Whatever path is taken, the outcome has Now if the Acts of our Apostleship werebeen imaged for us in the 25th chapter of the Gospel written today, what would it say?