Pictures : Humanity & Inclusion

After Super Typhoon Mangkhut, known as Super Typhoon Ompong in the Philippines, has hit northern Luzon in September, Kaloob sent a solidarity call to support Humanity and Inclusion (Handicap International) “cash for service” project in Pinukpuk municipality, in the province of Kalinga. Thanks to everyone's mobilization, we have been able to launch effective action with the local barangays.

Barangay Camalog:
the inhabitants unite to repair a road and a dike

“Typhoon Ompong destroyed a road and a small dike in one area of Barangay Camalog that was previously the lifeline of the community. It allowed farmers to bring their produce directly from their farm to the market and to their home table. However, the road had several large holes and a dike was badly damaged.
The whole barangay converged to exhibit an impressive “bayanihan” practice (spirit of community work, implying unity and cooperation). Tricycle drivers gathered rocks to fill up the holes by mixing them with sand and cement. A farmer donated a whole pig to feed the workers. Women cooked food and helped with the mixing of cement. Old men and teenagers worked together to repair the damaged dike with large stones and cement. By the afternoon, small vehicles could pass and transport the produces to the market.”

Eleven juniors from St. John’s Prep in Danvers, a Xaverian High School, visited the Assumptionist Center recently as part of a three-day immersion program of serving at several social service sites and visiting spiritual life centers.

The boys, accompanied by two teachers, arrived in time for evening prayer and shared in the community dinner which was followed by a discussion with the religious, residents and a few staff members. They heard about the congregation’s history and way of life as religious brothers and priests.

After a brief introduction by Andrew Mercado, our Coordinator of Vocations, a few Assumptionists mentioned what it was about the congregation that brought them the most joy in their lives. One highlighted his gratitude that the congregation allowed its members to develop their gifts for the Kingdom. Another found his primary joy by living in community with his brothers in light of the gospel and the spirit of St. Augustine. Several residents and staff members shared their experiences of warmth acceptance and hospitality as members of the Assumption family.

This first session of “Conversations…” for this semester focused on Pope Francis’ theme for the Synod on Youth, “Young People, Faith and Vocational Discernment.” The presenters, Dr. Theresa O’Keefe from BC’s School of Theology and Ministry, and Mr. Andrew Mercado, our Coordinator of Vocations, both spoke from their experiences of working with this critical population in the Church and to the importance of the Church in listening to these young Catholics.  As a result, this can only help us to understand where they are coming from in today’s worldwide cultures and how to respond to them in ministry.

Dr. O’Keefe first mentioned the challenges of structure, organization and management in the Church that youth encounter. In contrast, she noted Pope Francis’ concern for focusing on the meaning of life, the purpose of life as people of faith and the importance of having a prophetic stance based on the gospel. This is what the world needs today and is the hope for the future.

Mr. Mercado spoke of the Synod as a listening experience for Youth and Bishops as a means of guidance and inspiration during an age of a shifting social landscape and how discernment must play a role. He used Moses and the burning bush as a metaphor of curiosity of what is and not what we want it to be. We must engage our youth in the ‘messiness’ of our life in the Church, recognizing the sufferings of the young, not to let structures get in the way but be hopeful to challenges, broaden our horizons and witness to authenticity.

Following the presentations, there was a lively discussion between the presenters, the residents, community and guests which was enthusiastic, thoughtful and enriching.