A tale of two funerals: a parable of faith today
Posted: Thu, 10 Nov 2022 09:47
In January 2012, I attended the funeral of a dear family friend in a tiny rural village, nestling on the edge of Europe—the nearest transatlantic neighbour being Nova Scotia. Despite its geographical isolation, the church was filled to overflowing. Hymns were sung with power, reflections were read with deep emotion, and memories were shared. Kelly Roper writes simple poetry that speaks, to the... Read More »
70 Years of Salesian Presence at Savio House
Posted: Mon, 7 Nov 2022 15:04
On Saturday 5th November, Savio House celebrated 70 years of the Salesian presence. Past volunteers, parishioners from St Gregory's and past members of staff were all in attendance to remember their time at Savio House. Fr Martin Coyle was the MC for the event and reflected on the work of Savio House. There were also testimonies from various people, Fr Bernard Grogan SDB, Fr Hugh Preston SDB, Fr Michael... Read More »
Looking for a Salesian Volunteer Cross design for the Congregation!
Posted: Fri, 4 Nov 2022 14:49
(ANS-Rome) The Salesian Volunteer Program has been alive in the Congregation since the time of Don Bosco. Mamma Margaret was the first Salesian Volunteer who served at the Oratory. Without her, Don Bosco would have struggled even more. At the congregational level, a team of experts has been called to form the Salesian Volunteer Advisory Board. This Advisory Board has the task of helping the Salesian... Read More »
Sunday Reflection - 32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time (Year C)
Posted: Fri, 4 Nov 2022 12:10
As we come towards the end of the Church's year, and approach the liturgical season of Advent, it might seem unusual to reflect on resurrection? Or is it? All seasons of the year point to the new life of resurrection—it is the central paradigm of our faith. For the Christian, everything must be viewed through the lens of resurrection—for the Christian, everything can only make sense through... Read More »
Rector Major: The Little City of the Beatitudes
Posted: Thu, 3 Nov 2022 10:09
Within the megapolis of Chennai (Madras), amid the enormous industrial complexes and magnificent temples and in the exciting atmosphere of city life, there lies a luminous sliver of truly Salesian goodness.
The story began many years ago following the infamous First World War, in a little town high in the mountains of Italy, in a dignified poor family of thirteen children.
One evening, after the children... Read More »
Salesian Co-operators visit to Valdocco
Posted: Tue, 1 Nov 2022 14:45
On 8 October 2022, 16 people set out on a Salesian Co-operators Pilgrimage to Turin and Rome, in the footsteps of our great patron, Don Bosco.
Sister Ella Flynn FMA from the Easterhouse Community was one of our pilgrims together with co-operators from Chertsey, Streatham & Friends from the St Don Bosco Parish in Erskine Scotland.
It was a very special time to be in those 2 cities, as the Canonisation... Read More »
An Angel outside but Herod within
Posted: Mon, 31 Oct 2022 15:37
I was deeply impressed by a homily given by one of my confrere, Fr Tony Fernandes SDB: in the context of the gift of the Holy Family, he spoke of the reality of broken relationships. He spoke graphically of how some may present themselves 'as an Angel outside, but Herod within!' That phrase stuck with me as I realised that there is a truth there for all of us. We can all wear masks when it is convenient—we... Read More »
Visit of Mother Chiara Cazzuola
Posted: Fri, 28 Oct 2022 14:01
On Sunday 23rd October, Mother Chiara Cazzuola FMA arrived to visit the GBR province with the FMA. Mother Cazzuola was welcomed to Blundellsands, before meeting the Provincial Council on Monday. On Tuesday she went up to Glasgow, and the Easterhouse community, meeting with cooperators on Wednesday. She continued down to Cowley where she stayed with the community there, and joined the celebrations for... Read More »
Salesian Birthdays
Posted: Fri, 28 Oct 2022 13:13
This week has seen a Salesian Priest and a Salesian Sister reach significant milestones.
On Friday 21st October, Fr Charles Garrick SDB, reached 80 years of age. The community in Bolton came together to celebrate in Thornleigh House.
On Thursday 27th October, Sr Janet Bradley FMA, reached 90 years of age. The community in Cowley celebrated, which coincided with a visit from Mother Chiara Cazzuola FMA.... Read More »
Sunday Reflection - 31st Sunday of Ordinary Time (Year C) - Little Zacchaeus
Posted: Fri, 28 Oct 2022 10:16
Today we meet another tax collector in Jericho—Zacchaeus was the unpopular post holder in that busy town. I love this man because I can identify so closely with him. I am no accountant, nor do I live in a beautiful town in Judea—I am not particularly fond of sycamore trees, but I am short! This busy agent of the Roman government is keen to meet Jesus. He is keen to see what the fuss is... Read More »