Christmas Appeal 2011
or
Dear Columban Friends,
As Christmas approaches our thoughts turn to the Madonna and Child. This mother and child are Chinese. They are poor rural people who have moved to Shanghai in search of work. As migrants they have few rights and limited access to education and social services. Father Warren Kinne, from Bundaberg, and some of his friends have set up the You Dao Foundation to help them.
Father Warren’s story can be read in The Far East, October 2011. It is a story of mission and commitment. It is a Columban story.
This is my last letter to you as Director. I have enjoyed corresponding with you and have been inspired by your generous response. Thank you.
The woman and child represent the many you have helped over the years. They are also symbolic of the poor mother and child of Bethlehem. The incarnation continues. Jesus is “reborn” millions of times in every continent and hopefully in our hearts.
I
trust this Christmas is a graced and happy time for you and your family.
Peace,
Fr Noel Connolly
Australia & New Zealand
