The September issue of The Far East magazine highlights many good news stories from countries where there seems to be little hope for those living in poverty.
From Pakistan Columban Fr Dan O’Connor tells us how a health and tuberculosis Clinic in Badin, managed by Columbans, assists those who live in the most primitive of conditions.
The introduction of Preda Fair Trade in the Philippines, an initiative of Columban Fr Shay Cullen, is making a difference to many mango farmers who have been exploited for most of their lives.
Sr Redempta Twomey’s reflection will resonate with many of us who struggle with prayer and at times wonder why it is so tough. It is a short reflection but it gives us much to think about.
In the ‘Where are they now?’ section we feature Columban Fr Chris Baker who has returned from Peru to live in the Columban House in Essendon where he intends to catch up with family and friends and settle into retirement.
We have two contributions to ‘Your Columban Story’, one of which sent me searching through 1960s issues of The Far East magazine looking for photos of two young girls on their first communion day. It was a long shot but I think I have located them and will have much pleasure in scanning and forwarding them to their mother.
From Manchester, a 12 year old girl with Peruvian parents shows incredible compassion and concern for flood victims in Peru. She set about raising funds and publicising the plight of those affected by the floods. When asked what inspired her, she said, “I only wanted to help.”
It took some time, but when Fr Joe Ruys, a Melbourne Diocesan Priest, returned to Peru for his second term as a Columban Associate Priest he was met with some very good news. During his first assignment in Peru Fr Joe established a well needed medical centre that the Ministry for Health has now taken ownership of, ensuring its longevity.
Pope Francis asks us to ‘Hear the cry of many brothers and sisters who are criminally trafficked and exploited‘. He says that the problem is not exclusive to developing countries but happening in Rome.
The Encyclical Laudato Si': On Care for our Common Home is now three years old. Columban Fr Sean McDonagh, a major contributor to the Encyclical reflects on what has happened to the environment during these years.
A volunteer from the United States Columban Center for Advocacy and Outreach shares his experience of spending time at the Hope Workers' Centre in Taiwan with migrant workers who have been exploited.
In our final article a Columban Lay Missionary opens our eyes to the poverty, loneliness and isolation of the elderly in Korea. Her ministry is both challenging and rewarding.
The articles in this issue of The Far East magazine are fine examples of listening to Pope Francis’ message to hear the cry of our brothers and sisters. Let us pray that the next 100 years of Columban Mission will produce even more Good News stories.
Janette Mentha
Listen to From the Editor
Related links
- Read more from The Far East, September 2018
