Province of Asia-Australia Autumn · PDF fileProvince of Asia-Australia Autumn 2009 ... 1974...

Newsle t te r o f S is te rs, Fa i th fu l Companions o f JesusProvince of Asia-Australia Autumn 2009

Suipisse consent eugait velis nosto el inci tat. Ut volestio od odipis alit min hendiatum verat

Sr Dolores Kirby fcJAn extract taken from Sr Barbara Brown-Graham’s Eulogy for Sr Dolores at her Requiem at Genazzano Chapel, 31 December 2008.

In the first minutes of 27 December, Mary Agnes Kirby, our beloved Sr Dolores, in her 95th year, peacefully made that final

step through ‘the open door’ into the presence of her Beloved. This ‘step’ was just a continuation of the many steps she had taken throughout her life of amazing love and fidelity. She died as she had lived – simply and without fuss, focussing on others and ever sure of the presence of Jesus, her most faithful Companion.

Mary was born at Hamilton, Victoria, on 24 June 1914, the second child of Soph (Sophia Petrea ten Brink) and Ted (Edmund) Kirby. She had a wonderful sense of belonging to and pride in the wider Kirby family; she had a keen interest in each member and loved you all dearly.

Mary’s association with Genazzano began as a boarder in 1929. She said she was a ‘shy little country girl’ but soon learned to love the place. On 2 February 1933 Mary began her journey as a Faithful Companion of Jesus. In Brussels, on 5 April 1934, Mary Kirby became a novice, taking the name of Dolores. She loved every minute of her two-year novitiate. In September 1937 Dolores commenced her degree in Science and Maths at the University of Dublin.

On 3 December 1946, Dolores returned home to Melbourne. She moved to Genazzano, teaching Science, Physics, Chemistry, Maths and Religious Education and assisting in the supervision of the boarders. Her warmth, care and affection for the girls were clearly appreciated by many. During these years Dolores was Assistant Novice Director and later Provincial Bursar. In 1973 Dolores was missioned to teach at Vaucluse in Richmond and in 1974 she went to Stella Maris, Frankston, as local superior. Dolores returned to Genazzano in May 1980, moved to the St Raphael’s community at the end of 1988 and re-joined the Moonbria Avenue community in 1998.

In June 2007 Dolores was missioned to Corpus Christi Aged Care Facility in Clayton. She was cheerful, attentive to those in need and a beautiful companion to our dear Sr Mary John Haskings fcJ. Until her death she remained mentally alert, often doing the daily crossword and the 9-letter word puzzle.

May she rest in peace and continue to radiate that faithful love that is hers, now, with the God who has loved her so much.

The Girl from HamiltonMary Agnes KirbyBorn: 24 June 1914 Died: 27 December 2008

1929 Enrolled as a boarder at Genazzano1931 – 1932 School Captain1933 Entered the FCJ Society Left for England1934 Novice in Brussels, Belgium1936 First Profession as an FCJ1937 – 1941 Dublin University1942 Final Profession1943 Manchester: Teacher Education1944 – 1946 Teacher at Skipton, Yorkshire1946 Return to Australia1946 – 1973 Teacher at Genazzano1973 Teacher at Vaucluse1974 – 1980 Leader, Stella Maris Community1974 – 1980 Provincial Bursar1980 – 1988 Missioned to Genazzano1988 – 1997 Missioned to St Raphael’s1998 – 2007 Missioned to Moonbria CommunityJuly 2007 Missioned to Corpus Christi, Clayton27 December 2008 Entered Eternal Life

Sr Dolores welcomes Prep student, Montana Drake, to Genazzano in 2007.

General Chapter 2008

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Education Ministry

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Q & A

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From the Provincial

The year 2009 opened for us in southern Australia with

hopes and prayers for good rains to water the parched earth once again. But the intense summer heat combined with tinder-dry conditions to produce the terrible fires that will be ever etched on our hearts. The devastating consequences of loss of life, natural resources and habitat, property and services compel us to face the extent to which we are living simply and in harmony with our evolving universe.

We reach out in love and compassion to the families of the deceased and to all whose lives have been upturned by the effects of the fires. The Paschal mystery of Jesus is once more being lived out in suffering and death. Likewise, the resurrection of Jesus is seen in the outpouring of support, generous service and solidarity from so many. Already we see signs of resurrection in nature and pray for the seeds of new hope in the lives of those who suffer.

April 5th brings to a close our special year of celebration of 150 years since the death of our foundress, Marie Madeleine. We thank God for this ‘year of grace’ and thank our colleagues and friends, our Companions in Mission and our families for your companionship and support in this year.

You will notice that FCJ News is our new masthead: in this and future editions we hope to share with you some of the energy for life and mission that is so evident to me as I journey around the province. I have recently returned from Myanmar where I spent some wonderful days with our new FCJ community in Yangon. In the latter half of 2008, two FCJ sisters were missioned to Sudan as part of a joint project of Religious Congregations. Planting in fresh soil requires the right amount of moisture and sunshine, but it is God who gives the growth. Let us pray for God’s abundant grace!

Christ brings new beginnings and true life that will not end.

Sr Barbara Brown-Graham fcJ

It was then that Elijah, covering his face, came to the entrance of the cave and

heard God speaking to him by name.But where was God on Black Saturday

in Victoria in February 2009?In the hearts of those who heard the

horrific roar of the ferocious fire racing to consume them, was it Jesus in agony again, sweating profusely in extreme fear of imminent death?

‘Greater love than this no man has than to lay down his life for His friends’ (Jn 15: 13). How many died doing just that, as they tried to save family, friends and strangers! Are they ‘Jesus’ people?

Jesus wept at the death of his friend Lazarus. Does Jesus still weep in and with all those who mourn?

When the ACT firefighter fell and died under the weight of a falling tree, was it the Christ falling under the wooden cross on his way to Calvary to save others?

In the tears and cries of anguish of the survivors of that terrible day and horrific

night, did we hear Jesus on the cross crying out once more, ‘My God, my God, why have You forsaken me’ (Mt 27: 46)?

In the fear, terror, pain, loss and grief, where was God?

The last words of Matthew’s Gospel give us Jesus’ final message: ‘I am with you always till the end of the world’ (Mt 28: 20).

Did the Christ die 210 times on those fatal days?

And Mary, our Mother, whom we so often ask to pray for us, where was she?

‘Near the cross of Jesus stood His mother’ (Jn 19: 25).

What Spirit moved the hearts of so many to respond to this unspeakable sorrow in an incredible outpouring of love, compassion, generosity and unrelenting selfless service?

Is this our God gazing in compassion on the world entrusted to us?

‘God loved the world so much, He gave us his only Son’ (Jn 3: 16).

Margaret Claver Hayes fcJ

Where was God on Black Saturday?

In the first book of Kings we read that Elijah, fleeing for his life to Mount Horeb, was told to wait for God to pass by. We recall that first there was a ‘wild wind which rent the mountains and broke the rocks… but God was not in the wind … After the storm, an earthquake…but God was not in the earthquake. After [that]… a fire, but God was not in the fire’. After that came ‘the murmur of a gentle breeze’ (1Kgs 19: 11–13).

From the Provincial

FCJnews Newsletter of Sisters, Faithful Companions of Jesus Autumn 2009

Reflection


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‘ We live in a world where gross inequalities exist and many struggle for survival. The authenticity of our FCJ way of life requires that we earnestly and actively honour our commitment to simple living so as to respond to the world’s hunger, contribute in a real way to the sustainability of the planet and free resources for ministry. ’ Extract from the Chapter Decree, 2008.

General Chapter 2008

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Renewal of Vows in Manila, Sr Wina

‘ Renewal of vows for me is always a moment of celebrating God’s love and a moment of remembering the love that I have received from God, through my family, FCJ sisters and those I meet in ministry’

(Wina, February 2009).

Sisca Setiati fcJ M.Arts–Theology

Though Sisca was unable to graduate formally after her two years of study at the Yarra Theological Union, Melbourne, some of her community were very happy to be present, on Friday evening 21 November 2008 when, during a beautifully prepared Eucharist celebrated by Fr Brian Gleeson OP, Sisca, with most of her fellow students, received a certificate and a candle, as symbols of graduation.

Sisca worked conscientiously and with enthusiasm, to achieve her Masters degree, especially as all her study was in English, her third language! She herself wrote in the YTU Newsletter, ‘YTU has made the study of theology something to appreciate and enjoy’.

Congratulations, Sisca!

Final Vow Ceremony in Indonesia for Laurentia Yunitri Moelyowardani fcJ

All FCJ Sisters currently on mission in Indonesia were present, with representatives from Australia and the Philippines, as well as family, close personal friends and a number of young people from the MAGiS 08 and 09 groups. The Eucharist was celebrated by Fr Darminto sj. Yuni chose hymns in English, Indonesian, Javanese and Tagalog – reflective of the internationality of our FCJ life.

Yuni stepped forward with confidence and as she proclaimed her vows her voice resounded throughout the Chapel. Sr Barbara Brown-Graham received the vows while Sisters Afra Primadiana and Clare Hand were her witnesses. Yuni’s vows were a celebration for the whole faith community. We were reminded that we are called to mission together in order that God’s dream for the whole of creation might be ever more realised.

Gold! Gold!Sr Céline Nolan, a member of the Benalla FCJ community, celebrated her Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession on Sunday 21 September 2008. Members of Céline’s family, FCJ Sisters and friends gathered with her for the Eucharistic Celebration in the Genazzano Chapel, followed by afternoon tea. Many words of congratulations were extended to Céline for living 50 years of faithful service and companionship as a FCJ Sister.

A Song and Dance Celebration

On 1 February, Liz Brown fcJ celebrated 25 years of her religious profession in the Genazzano Chapel. With her FCJ companions, friends and family, Liz was joyously supported by a number of singers and liturgical dancers from the Focolare community of which her sister, Margaret, is a member. Fr Des Fitzgerald CSSR, the celebrant, joined Liz and her friends for afternoon tea after the ceremony.

Celebrations

Sr Céline celebrating with family and friends.

A smiling Sr Liz Brown

Sr Wina on her special day

Sr Laurentia

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Star Camp 2008After a written application and an interview, I was fortunate enough to be selected for Star Camp 2008. Thirty students from Loreto Mandeville Hall, St Kevin’s College, Xavier College and Genazzano FCJ College arrived at the Xavier boarding house for a four-day camp, which gave us the opportunity to look after children with disabilities. We were excited to meet our campers and determined to make the most of the experience.

Education Ministry

members of the camp had developed new friendships and strong bonds with the teachers and the medical staff.

On behalf of the students from Genazzano, we would like to extend our gratitude to all the teachers and the adult volunteers who gave the much-needed help and guidance that ensured the camp ran smoothly. We value the opportunity we had to provide a short time of respite for the families and to have this powerful experience that we will never forget.

Caterina Amato, Year 12 Graduate 2008

Volunteer students with their new friends at the Star Camp

Social JusticeIn 2008 Genazzano FCJ College’s commitment to social justice was evident as students participated in the various opportunities presented by the college, including involvement in the Companionship Program, the St Vincent de Paul College Conference, Simply Sharing Week, Social Justice Week, Make Poverty History Week and the Kimberley Exchange Program.

These social justice programs and projects have helped the students develop skills for life. The report that follows is an example of young people learning from their school experience and continuing to participate in opportunities to serve those who need a helping hand.

The FCJ Mission calendar moves at a cracking pace with the different year levels thinking up projects to attract the student and staff dollar. The Boogle for Burma was a winner in 2008. The FCJ Sisters thank staff and students for their enthusiasm and generosity.

The week was busy, packed with activities enjoyed by both campers and companions – including a visit from the Petting

Zoo, swimming, a visit from a magician and a clown show. The children had a day trip to the zoo, a mini-fair, a movie night with an exclusive performance by the band ‘Charlie Red’ from St Kevin’s College and a disco night.

Throughout the camp we encountered various challenges; however, it was truly a rewarding and memorable experience that will be cherished by all of us. The last day was emotional, as all

FCJ College Theme 2009 Gentleness In recent years the two FCJ colleges have taken a theme from the life of the Foundress as a focus for the life of the school in all its endeavours. This year it is gentleness. What is gentleness?

‘ Gentleness rests firmly on an awareness of self and of outside reality. Gentleness keeps our heart always within the boundaries of justice, reason and love. And through gentleness great good can be achieved for our world, our fellow human beings and our environment.’

Trish Cowling, Principal, Genazzano FCJ College

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Sr Myrna Nunan fcJMy earliest memory is my brother throwing water over the fence and drenching an old lady passing by.

School was always a happy experience at both primary and secondary level although I was more interested in sport than in academic subjects.

My first relationship was with a male friend, who took me rabbiting and with whom I enjoyed playing tennis and golf.

My most treasured possession is my family with all its extensions.

My mother and father always told me to be good. I swore once and was taken into the bedroom to kneel down and say a Hail Mary in reparation.

My happiest day was the day the FCJ sisters accepted me as a candidate. Since then my life has been dotted with many happy experiences especially as Principal of St John’s Primary School in East Frankston and my teaching days at Vaucluse College, Richmond and Providence, Rhode Island, USA.

Books that impressed me as a young person include Fr Damien of Molokai along with City of God.

A song that I would like played at my funeral is ‘Take my Hand, Walk in the Sun’.

If only I could, I would enable all my Vietnamese girls to go back to Vietnam to visit their families.

My most rewarding ministry has been a ‘mother’ to so many Vietnamese refugee girls. I am mother, grandmother, aunty, confidante and friend.

My most humbling experience was in a refugee camp in Cambodia when, in spite of extreme poverty, people insisted on giving me gifts.

The hardest thing that I have ever done was to say ‘No’ to a refugee who wanted re-settlement.

Cat or dog? Yank, a golden Labrador, managed to survive the love showered on him by the community at Frankston to the point where he became a man-hater.

My greatest joy is driving into the country and down by the seaside.

Getting to Know

Sr Myrna in the midst of her Vietnamese family

Q & A

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In December 2008 and January 2009 I lived with the FCJs in Manila, volunteering with them in their ministries. I

spent time in Bagong Silangan tutoring children of the village, particularly those with disabilities.

What struck me most was the overwhelming courage of those around me, courage of both the FCJs and of those living and working at Payatas. One morning I attended a women’s meeting. One by one the women stood up and spoke of challenges that they faced – loneliness, poverty and uncertainty. Each did so with such passion and heart that each cried as they spoke. But what came from the meeting was not self-pity, but hope. Trust that, together, these women could continue on with the support

of each other. Such courage. Such faith!Physical poverty is a horrible reality in Manila. My time

working at Payatas showed me that ‘community’ is far more important than physical possessions. The poor people of Payatas will, in my mind, remain the richest people I have ever met, in the sense that they have copious amounts of love, support, connections and dignity. In turn, and with nothing else than each other, the FCJ sisters will remain instruments of the Spirit, so graciously and capably fostering ‘community’ in these people.Sarah Rose, third-year nursing student, Australian Catholic University

My Filipino ExperienceFilipinos and FCJ Sisters love food: food of all tastes and from all cultures. During my time volunteering with the FCJs in Manila I grew to understand there is more to a love of food than a love of succulent tastes. Sitting down for a meal with FCJs is a cornerstone of the FCJ charism, a manifestation of their welcome and companionship, being present with their companions on a journey. Filipinos, too, celebrate at every opportunity. My two months in Manila were filled with many shared meals – a symbol of the wholehearted welcome I received.

Life alongside the dumpsite in Bagong Silangan

Ministry in Asia

Acknowledgements

Communication Core Group Elizabeth Brown fcJ, Julie Chamberlin, Rosemary Crowe fcJ, Margaret Kennedy fcJ.

Published by FCJ Society. Province of Asia-Australia.

Guest Editor Denise Symonds. Design Maggie Power/Becky Zie Jesuit Communications.

Printed by MJ Printing.

FCJ Province Centre 44A Waltham Street, Richmond 3121. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.fcjsisters.org

FCJ Missions You will find enclosed a donation envelope. Any contributions to the work of the FCJ Society’s Missions will be welcome.

E-mail address If you have an e-mail address please e-mail it to the Province Office, [email protected]

Come along to a very special fundraising evening at: Genazzano FCJ College.7.15 for 7.30pm. All seated at 8.00pm.

Chicken and Champagne Wednesday 17 June 2009.

Centenary Hall, Genazzano FCJ College, 130 Cotham Road Kew (Parking in the grounds) Donation: $25.

Book your tickets now: Enquiries: Julie Chamberlin 9853 6527.

Bookings by 1st June to help with catering arrangements.

Guest Speaker: Sister Paola Terroni fcJ, Coordinator of the FCJ Learning and Development Centre in Manila. Sister Paola works on the ground in Manila among the poorest of the poor and some of her stories are almost impossible for us to believe from the comfort of our homes in Melbourne.

A Scholarship Program for ten students in the Philippines to go to College for four years and for three nurses in Romania will be launched.

Market Stall: Goods made by FCJ Centre women will be on sale!


Your chance to help little children in the Philippines, just like these…

Aboriginal Catholic MinistryOn 16 May 2009 ACM (Aboriginal Catholic Ministry) and CFAR (Catholics for Australian Reconciliation) will be holding an Information and Renewal Day for those who are already Custodians of a Message Stick. This will also be an opportunity for other people to sign up. They will be introduced to ‘The Turning of the Coolamon’ for the First Sunday of Advent later in the year.

Diary Dates 2009Associates’ Meetings

Frankston Associates, friends, past pupils. Sunday 14 June.

Melbourne 23 August.

Benalla 25 October.

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