Contents
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
Mission statement
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DONALD J. REECE, D.D / Archbishop of Kingston Fr. Frank Power, SVD Fr. Ed Herberger, SVD James Francis Canon Cawley by Fr. Frank Fr Austin Milner, OP Monsignor Stanley Shearer Fr. Bernard Latus, SVD Fr. Walter Mendonca, SVD Eula. H. Ritchie / St. Bartholomew, Yallahs Marcia Bemett / The Custos Eileen Budhi / St. Francis of Assisi Church, Port Morant Sr. Magola Meeusen, ICM Rev. Bancroft Williams / Coke Methodist Church, Morant Bay Rev. Lenworth Haughton / Morant Bay Parish Church Rev. Bancroft Williams / The Saint Thomas Minister’s Fraternal James Robertson, M.P
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rticle Messages
Articles OLA 40th Anniversary / Myrian Scott That the heart of Jesus will live in the hearts of all / Bro. Bernie Spitzley, SVD There Was Just A Small Gathering / Bernice Cameron Recall / Fr. Pierre A. Tevi-Benissan, SVD A missionary – living to serve. / Fr. Frank Power, SVD SSVP / Kilroy Ford Be Still and Know That I Am God / Ironey Ashman Our beloved sister Mrs. Ashman / Patrick Findley My First Missionary Journey / Fr. Yohanes Bally, SVD
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Reflection LET MY LEGS GROW PLEASE JESUS THE GOD WHO LOVES US WISDOM
Pastoral Team
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Fr. Frank Power, SVD (Pastor) / Fr. Yohanes Bally, SVD / Bro. Bernie Spitzley, SVD / Bro. Bobby Lucas Yeh, SVD Deacon Audley Harrison Address: 3 Upton Drive, P.O. Box 62, Morant Bay, St. Thomas, Jamaica, W.I. / Tel: (876) 982-2250
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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DONALD J. REECE, D.D.
CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO THE PASTOR, RELIGIOUSAND PEOPLE OF OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION PARISH ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY
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t is always a pleasure and a privilege to join with our Catholic Christians who are a part of the growth of the Church Community that identifies them as loving and caring disciples of Jesus Christ called to manifest his Presence in a particular area of the Archdiocese of Kingston. How well I remember some of the earlier Pastors who made their mark on your Parish: Fr. Edward Scollen, S.J., Fr. John Alexander, S.J., Monsignor Stanley Shearer, Fr. Francis Cawley (the friendly Irish priest)--just to mention a few of the giants of the past. They and the dedicated Religious Sisters (in particular the I.C.Ms) and committed lay people who braved the anti-Catholic sentiments of yesteryear and bore witness to Christ as they ministered to Catholics and others alike. Of more recent years up to today, you have been blessed with the presence and ministries of the Society of the Divine Word Missionaries whose zeal is unquestionable, and who--along with their Deacon and zealous lay ministers and laity--continue to lead you along the path of continuous conversion so that Christ will be all in all. Only when Christ is at the centre of our existence, will our Church be seen as being "Vibrant, Visible, and Vocal!" As you step into the forty-first year with God's grace leading and surrounding you, may you, as a Worshipping and Caring Community--the Body of Christ--find yourselves mirroring ever more closely the very first community of believers recorded in Acts 2:42: "They were faithful to the teaching of the apostles, the common life of sharing, the breaking of bread and the prayers." May God bless you and keep you always in the palm of His Hand! AD MULTOS ANNOS! +DONALD J. REECE, D.D. ARCHBISHOP OF KINGSTON
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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hey say – “Life begins at 40”. Who are “they”? I have no idea. We attach labels to certain ages. We have children celebrate First Holy Communion at seven years, when they reach the “age of reason”. We receive the “keys of the house” at 21 years. We celebrate Silver jubilees after 25 years. Traditions, myths and legends, or whatever we want to call them, we acknowledge milestones of various kinds. 40 is one such milestone. If “Live begins at 40”, then the Church community here in Morant Bay is about to begin life. The building we know as Our Lady of the Assumption had its corner-stone laid on the 16th of August 1969. In October of last year, we began a year of activities to celebrate this forty year span. It was named and celebrated by Archbishop Donald Reece, Archbishop of Kingston, at the annual pilgrimage here on the 15th of August. Fr Richard Ho Lung and friends graced us with a concert here in Morant Bay on September 11th as another moment of celebration. At our Christmas dinner in mid-December, we will honour some parishioners as part of the fortieth celebration. But our climax will really be the Solemnity of Christ the King, when Archbishop Reece will come and close the year of celebrations with a Eucharistic celebration. It is for us to thank God for the blessings of the past – we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us – priests, Brothers, Sisters, lay men and women. Their faith and their steadfastness allows us the privilege to be here today. We celebrate this present moment – this graced time that God has blessed us with
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essage
Frank Power, SVD
today. We turn our faces to the future with renewed enthusiasm and seek new ways of Evangelisation as we strive to reach out to the community of St. Thomas parish and find ways to draw them into this faith-community here. As members of the Divine Word Missionaries (SVD), along with Deacon Audley Harrison, we comprise the pastoral team here, and we seek to understand what Parish Prophetic Dialogue means here. How do we hear and speak that Living Word here in a place that is filled with many varied and different Christian Churches?; How do we do justice in a civic parish that all admit is the most undeveloped parish in Jamaica?: How do we sow seeds of peace in a land that is racked by crime and violence? How do we stand for the beauty of creation in a place where there is no re-cycling plant and where plastic bottles and Styrofoam containers litter the sides of every road? How do we promote the family as the basic unit of life where so many one-parent families exist and where so many ‘fathers’ are just not around to be father to their children? How do we promote the dignity of human life from womb to tomb in a society where abortion, murder and drugs part of the daily scene? God has brought us this far. God will bring us the rest of the way. Life is beginning anew here. 40 years is a short span. Celebrate with us in this memorial magazine. Remember and give thanks. Pray for us as we go forward. Fr. Frank Power, SVD Parish Priest
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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ear Parishioners of Our Lady of the
I found that each community, Morant Bay, Port Morant, and Yallah, had some natural leaders accepted by the respective church community, each of which were different. I think of Jean Richie (Yallahs), Miriam Scott and the people she
Assumption,
was leading in the RCIA (Morant Bay). I also
On the Occasion of the 40th Anniversary of the
think of “Bishop” Leslie Kelly who certainly
blessing and opening of Our Lady of the
knew and loved his people.
Assumption, I first of all join you in thanking
The most profound experiences without a doubt
God for all the grace that were given and
were the Easter Vigil Baptisms at Our Lady of
received in this church. Secondly, I want to
Assumption. Through the faithful guidance of
rejoice with you for the goodness and kindness
Miriam Scott, the individuals coming forward for
you carried from here to your families and the
baptism were ready. For me as pastor,
larger community.
immersing them in the water three times was
The Divine Word Missionaries are in Jamaica
touching and powerful; then watching them
because Archbishop Carter whenever in Rome
come up the aisle in the darkness dressed in
went out of his way to beg, beg and beg more for
white with their lighted candles was dramatic.
our assistance, even after initially being turned
And most of all their conversion and dedication
down. In 1993 we accepted to take a one year of
to the gospel was obvious.
onsite observation. At the time I was available
The church of Our Lady of the Assumption is a
and sent. I still remember that as that year went
structure for the community but more
on my opinion was “If there is anywhere we
importantly it is a symbol of the Catholic
should be in the Caribbean, it certainty here in St.
Christian Community. I congratulate, you who
Thomas.”
with God’s grace have built up Our Lady of the
The Sister of Immaculate Heart of Mary (ICM’s)
Assumption community over the past 40 years.
met me at the airport. Within the first month I
Blessings,
appreciated the importance of their ministry
Father Ed Herberger, SVD
through the many Basic Christian Communities they helped to form. My first BCC meeting was at Mercy Prince’s house, around a fire for a light with a large harvest moon overhead.
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Ed Herberger, SVD
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V
ERY REVEREND JAMES FRANCIS CANON CAWLEY….. Since my arrival in Morant Bay just over a year ago, many priests’ names have been mentioned to me……and all with affection. But one of the names mentioned with most affection is that of Fr. Cawley. Born in Clooneen, Ballymote, County Sligo in Ireland, he was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Achonry (Ireland) in 1942. He taught at the diocesan seminary for 20 years. In 1962, he went to Peru in South America and worked as a missionary there for 7 years. This was the result of a call from Pope Paul VI who had invited missionaries to go to Peru where there was a great shortage of priest. At the end of that period of seven years, he moved to Jamaica where he worked until 1987, when he returned to Ireland. For the next three years, he filled in at various parishes in his home diocese until his health failed him and he went to live with his brother. His arrival in Jamaica was not primarily to work, but to visit a friend of his, Monsignor James Meaney. But when he saw the great need for priests in Jamaica at that time, he stayed on for 18 years. In other words, it took him 18 years to reach home after leaving Peru! On the 6th of February 1990, while Fr. Cawley
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was in hospital, he wrote a note stating that this was how he would like to be remembered, placed it in an envelope and said it was not to be opened until his death. The note was read at his funeral Mass. It read – “How I would like to be remembered: Francie, a real human being; Francie, a countryman; Francie, a sympathetic teacher who could dialogue with the fastest or slowest; Francie, a priest who, especially from 1963 to 1987 in parish work, like Paul, his great hero, tried to be all things to all men.” In addition to his time in Morant Bay, Fr. Cawley had also spent time in Annotto Bay, where he built a Church and rectory. In both places, he established convents for Sisters who did social work in the parishes. It was said of him that he worked very generously and that the only payment he requested was the love of the people. Fr. Francis Cawley died in Ireland on the 10th of January 1991. Sadly missed by many people in Morant Bay, may he rest in peace. (Fr. Frank Power, SVD)
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Fr. Austin Milner, OP
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he following message was dictated verbally to Fr. David Sanders, O.P. by Fr. Austin Milner, O.P. Fr. Austin was parish priest in Morant Bay for five years. His final year was with Fr. Ed Herberger, SVD, and prior to the arrival of the Divine Word Missionaries to Our lady of the Assumption parish. Fr. Austin has virulent leukemia and may not have much longer to live. He did however want to send this message…. 'I went to Morant Bay in 1988 just after the hurricane Gilbert had wreaked its destruction. When I arrived the church, convent and rectory had lost their roofs. The first task was to get food and water supplies to the people who needed them. About 100 churches in the area were helped. I got the supplies from Kingston and brought them back in a lorry. Eventually we found some galvanised roofing but it took a few months before the rectory was mended. I came from St Michael’s seminary on Friday and stayed till Monday and then spent longer periods in the vacations. The 2 ICM sisters, Magda and Alice, worked with me and started the BEC communities in St Thomas but it did get rather mixed up with the distribution of Food Aid. Ferdy Mahfoud provided some help to get some small wooden houses built. I also started the RCIA and built the font and screened off the Blessed Sacrament area with cedar.” Fr Austin sends his greetings from Oxford in England. He has very happy memories of his five years at our Lady of the Assumption and remembers the parishioners with great affection. He wishes you all very happy 40th celebrations and prays that God may continue to bless you all.
PS – A few days after receiving this message from Fr. David Sanders, he wrote again to say that Fr. Austin died peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Sunday, November 28th, 2010, the First Sunday of Advent.
Fr Austin Milner OP
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n 1972, Fr. Stanley Shearer (as he was then) succeeded Fr. John Alexander, S.J. as Pastor of Our Lady of the Assumption Church and three missions at Port Morant, Yallahs and Cedar Valley. He was recalled to Kingston in 1976. Fr. Shearer was well respected not only by the Catholic Church communities but also by the Protestant clergy and leaders and citizens in St. Thomas. He involved himself in any initiatives to improve conditions in the parish. He was recognised as a holy man, deeply committed to Christ and the Church and he carried out his ministry accordingly. Father Shearer was pastor in St. Thomas when there were many changes in the Church because of the influence of the Second Vatican Council which sought to make the Catholic Church more in tune with the modern world. However, these necessary changes, especially those in the liturgy, were confusing to the [parishioners. Fr. Shearer set out to explain the changes in the light of the conciliar documents. He selected sections on the Mystery of the Church, the Role of the Church in the modern world, the Role of the Priest and the Role of the laity in the Church’s mission. He then chose members of the congregation to read sections of these documents, discuss them with him and then make presentations to the general congregation on certain Sundays. This plan of action not only brought about understanding and acceptance of the changes but also assisted in building community because, after Mass and before the meetings, the parishioners enjoyed breakfast which they themselves had provided.
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From Monsignor Stanley Shearer
essage
Sent by Mrs. Gabrielle Peats
When the Archdiocese announced the introduction of an annual Synod, the parishioners in St. Thomas and elsewhere opposed the innovation because they mistakenly considered synods to be Protestant gatherings! Fr. Shearer corrected this misunderstanding with some presentations on Church history. Furthermore, he insisted that every year at least one delegate attend the synod meetings and on return present a report to the congregation. The education of the Church community was perhaps his greatest achievement as pastor. In 1974, the Church council proposed to celebrate the existence of the new Church of Our Lady of the Assumption with the Living Rosary followed by Mass at which Archbishop Carter would be the main celebrant. Archbishop proposed that there be an annual pilgrimage to Morant Bay to celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption. The first pilgrimage took place in 1976 with large crowds from parishes in the Archdiocese. It is wonderful that the pilgrimage to honour Our Lady has continued for 34 years. This can be counted as one of the achievements of this holy and dedicated priest.
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Bernard Latus, SVD
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congratulate the parish of Our Lady of Assumption in Morant Bay on their Fortieth Anniversary of their Church. Forty years is a milestone in the history of the parish and I still remember very fondly my seven years spent in Morant Bay. These were some of the most preciouis years in my ministry as a priest. The church building itself may not be that impressive in Morant Bay but the people of the Our Lady of Assumption parish definitely are. I remember fondly that the church was always filled for the Patronal feastday in August. But not only then, I will never forget the parishioners' thrust to evangelize and to build up the community, through Crusades, RCIA, Bible Study and Bible sharing sessions and the frequent Saturday ministry workshops and retreats. For many who live near and far in Seaforth, York, Lyssons and even Trinityville coming to this church for Sunday Mass or other activities is quite an enterprise with waiting for taxi or bus to reach the church - but these activities in the church have
become the focal point of the weekend activities for many catholics and non-catholics as well. I wish you continual strength of faith in your commitment to this church which was erected there as the national shrine of Jamaica some 40 years ago. Be proud of yourself and be proud of your Church. Give praise to God for the wonders He has done! Fr. Bernard Latus, SVD Basseterre, St. Kitts
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
Walter Mendonca, SVD
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ear Fr. Frank, I am glad to hear that Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Morant Bay, St. Thomas is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the foundation of the present Church. It is a matter of great joy for me as I was associated with the Church for four years, one year as assistant parish priest and then as parish priest. During my tenure, I did experience the love and affection of the people. Many of the parishioners live a humble and poor life. In the midst of struggles, hardships and even after the hurricanes, people just say, “Thank God”. People have taught me how to integrate myself into their culture and especially how to make the celebration of the Holy Eucharist more lively and enjoyable. I did enjoy celebrating Eucharist for them and with them. One day as I was driving people home after the Mass, one lady said to me, “Father, you are not preaching. ” Hearing this statement, I was taken aback. I asked her what she means... whether my sermons are not so interesting. Then the lady told me, “Father, you are teaching us our faith and not just preaching. It is very good, Father.” Those made me feel happy and encouraged. In fact this is what is needed...learning and
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deepening one’s faith as a Catholic. Parish (not the civil parish) is a family and as a family all gather in the Church to praise and worship our God and partake in the breaking of the Word and the Bread of life. It is only when we get to know more of our faith and deepen our faith, we find meaning in the celebrations. The Celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the foundation of the Church should be an occasion, to renew ourselves spiritually and commit ourselves to live for Christ and stand for His values and the values of the Kingdom. One must not think that the church belongs to the Priests, but to all of us. Each and every baptized person is part and parcel of the Church and therefore every member must give his or her time, talents and treasure in building up of the Catholic Community and bear witness to Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Our lives should draw other people to our Catholic Faith.I wish God’s abundant blessings upon the Pastoral Team and all the members of the Church. May our Lady of the Assumption guide and protect you. May she help you to grow in your faith and lead you all to Jesus. Fr. Walter Mendonca, SVD
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eartiest Congratulations to Our Lady of Assumption Church Community on the occasion of the 40th Anniversary of the church building. This is indeed a noteworthy accomplishment but we are aware that the Roman Catholic Church was started in Morant Bay more than forty years before this present building. We are made for a mission, so we urge you to continue to carry out your various ministries to the church. St. Paul reminds us that, “We are Christ’s representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God’s work of making things right between them. We are speaking for Christ Himself now: Become friends with God.” Tribute must be paid to the Jesuit and SVD priests, brothers, deacons and members who worked diligently in building the edifice of the church. The members of St. Bartholomew, Yallahs salute you!
Eula. H. Ritchie Chairman Church Council
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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essage
eartiest congratulations to Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church on their celebration of 40 years of service to the parish of Saint Thomas. The previous building is now replaced with a new one. This new church has served as a beacon of hope to all who have come through her doors, with love and compassion. The role that the church has played over these years in extending a helping hand to those that are sick, homeless and in need of love has been significant. The church has also played its role in assisting many persons to further their education. I can recall my first visit many years ago when I had the pleasure of hearing our priest, the late Irishman Father Cawley preached, I can still hear his Irish homily, “ and so my brothers and sisters as we celebrate”..... His sermons were usually short and to the point. I remember Father Gilbert, Father Austin Milner with his giant steps; he was the architect responsible for the construction of the baptismal pool which we now have. Father Ed Heberga, with his genteel spirit, he was very compassionate and kind. I also reflected on the many young priests who have served us well, those who were artistic and musical. Many adopted Jamaica as their home, Fathers Pierre, Roland, Bernard, Adam, Walter and now father Frank. These priests have all served with humility and we thank them for their commitment and for sharing their lives with us. Brother Bernie will be remembered for his extraordinary work and assistance to our poor and shut-ins and working with Food for the Poor. We recall Sis Magda, Sister Alice and Sister Pat, who gave tremendous service in the basic ecclesial community program, empowering our young people and also playing a pivotal role in early childhood education in the parish. Their service to the community lives on with the people who have benefited. Some have moved on to the higher service while others are still serving, we salute them for their contribution. They have all exemplified that “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in service.” Mahatma Gandhi. We commend the members of our church council who have spearheaded the work of the church. We are appreciative of those who served as chairmen and members; through them the church has fulfilled its spiritual obligations to its members. We must all continue to be our brother’s keeper by helping to build up God’s kingdom. Let us reach out through pure thoughts, words and actions. I encourage you to shine as lights for the entire world to see. Let us rededicate our lives to the service of God. Message from the Custos
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he St. Francis of Assisi Church community wishes to congratulate our sister church- Our Lady of the Assumption, which is named after our Mother Mary, as the patroness of Jamaica. We pray that God will continue to bless you, as you minster to your church community and the wider communities.
Congratulation on your 40th anniversary!
From: St. Francis of Assisi Church community
Sr. Eileen Budhi President
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
Magda Meeusen, ICM
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ear Priests and Brothers of the SVD Community, Dear Parishioners of Our Lady of the Assumption Church, It is with joy that I congratulate you on the 40th anniversary of your church! I am proud of you as a Church Community, because I have witnessed your growth in faith and unity from July 1988 till 1997. It have been beautiful years of my missionary life, for which I remain forever grateful. At the very beginning of our I.C.M Community in Morant Bay, Hurricane Gilbert hit St. Thomas bad. Yet, already the next Sunday people came out to the badly damaged church building for a Communion Service. We received Communion under the open sky, thanking God for life. Rather than sitting down, everybody came forward to build up together. Later B.E.C.'s were formed, meeting bi-weekly to share experience of life, to break open the Word of God, to pray together and to take action. These action points were very powerful, because it helped the needed people in the neighborhood, touching at times structures which needed change in the society. The poor and the "unchurched" became friends
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essage of your Church Community, and you started to realize that one can only grow in faith if it is integrated in one's life. You continued to grow in leadership and service under the direction of the SVD
Community. Now you can look back at 40 beautiful years! Hearty Congratulations! I celebrate with you at the other side of the world, Belgium. Best wishes and prayers! May God richly bless you, and may you continue to move forward together with the other Church Communities of St. Thomas to build up God's Kingdom in that part of Jamaica. Know that you will always remain in my heart and prayer. With love, Magda Meeusen, ICM
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Oct 29, 2010 Message From Coke Methodist Church, Morant Bay
ear Pastor, Sisters and Brothers in Christ, Allow us to rejoice with you congregation on the achievement of 40+ years of Christian witness in this community. In this parish we note your impact upon many, and welcome more ministry programmes for the upliftment of people. Let me encourage you not to be “weary of well doing” or become comfortable in achievement but strive in being a prophetic presence among our people. We salute you during this significant milestone and offer our prayers, hands and hearts in giving any possible support as you continue in the master’s footsteps. Sincerely,
Bancroft Williams (Rev’d) Superindent Minister
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nniversaries are times of celebration and reflection. For a church community it is even more significant. This year the church of Our Lady of the Assumption celebrates forty (40) years of witnessing in this community, for some it’s a short time while for others it’s not so short. Many are the priests and church workers who have served over these forty (40) years and many more will serve by God’s grace. In the same way many have been blessed through the ministry of this church. As you serve in this community, we are happy to have you as our neighbour. We are proud of your achievements over the past forty (40) years and so we look forward to the continuation of the great relationship which we share. From your physical vantage point “on the hill”, may you continue to carry out your mandate as our watchman. On behalf of the Anglican Church in this community and parish, I wish for the church of Our Lady of the assumption God’s continued blessings, this year and beyond. Congratulations and may you as a community grow from strength to strength as we in partnership, serve God’s people. God bless you. I remain, Yours in service, (The Very Rev) Lenworth Haughton Rector, Morant bay parish church and Rural Dean of St Thomas
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Oct 29, 2010 Message From The Saint Thomas Minister’s Fraternal
ear Pastor, Sisters and Brothers in Christ, On behalf of the St. Thomas Minister’s Fraternal, please accept our congratulations to Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church Community in the observance of 40 years of Christian witness in the parish. As participants in this mission together with other churches, we pray for a strengthening of your love for Christ and care for others. Let us continue the ecumenical ties we share and desire as we build each other’s capacity in service. Let me implore you to continue to impact this parish with positive values that will assist in the development of the total person’s spirituality and by extension economic and social liberation. May God’s richest blessing be yours at this time and years to come. Sincerely,
Bancroft Williams (Rev’d) Chairman St.Thomas Minister Fraternal
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Congratulations!
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
Let My Legs Grow Please Jesus Myriam Scott
A quiet night – I looked at a picture of our
Lord Jesus and I try to see something of the wonderful relationship with us His people. I see Him leading a whole world gently like a kind teacher taking a class of kindergarten children on a journey. He has had a busy time getting them together, to start. Some are pushing, others tugging, having their own private quarrels; going off at times to look at things on the way; picking fruits – some sweet, some sour – playing, dawdling, bawling and moaning especially after a fall when he has to pick them up and hush them. Some singing – even off-key- and some chatting like magpies! A motley group of small ones going but want to have their own way! I see Him calling to some, pointing their way. Admonishing, advising, helping encouraging especially those whose legs are shorter and they find it hard to keep up with the pace. I see Him stating a rule - that each one carries his own little cross and heavy burdens are helped on by one to another. But they are all on their way! “Follow me” He tells them. “Do not turn aside, do not linger, you’ll get hurt, or get lost!”
I picture the whole band as small ones because they have no idea what He is asking of them, or where they are going. They have never been to that place. “Follow me” He says “I know the way, you’ll only get There through ME! I am from that Place!” I hear the cries, grumbles and impatient talk of the motley group as they go along! And I am in that band! The group follows because they cannot resist this Great One’s appeal! I moaned and fretted and wondered and wondered until He looked my way with that look of encouragement and love. I felt a responsive love for Him! How kind and loving and thoughtful of Him to take the trouble to take out this miserable lot including me! I am happy that He noticed me! I feel wonderful! I used to feel so neglected at times, so unsure, my great and foolish self-esteem became battered, in fact it became deflated. I felt so much better – after all I am like the rest – I look at them and I see me! But He looked at me and I felt my short leg grow!! I stopped moaning and groaning. I began to learn to try my best to skip along on my short but growing legs!
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I looked around and realized that some had become quieter and more obedient to the Teacher and followed steadily. They seemed filled with a sense of great purpose. I wished to be like one of those but realized that I still need encouragement when my shorter legs are tired. I continue to watch and listen while I skipped along. I listened to those more serious ones but above all to my gracious Teacher. I learned that He had made great sacrificed for this motley group so that they could go on this trip. I began to feel that I owed it to Him to keep up and not to fail, and I feel less tired when I think of Him. And oh! I learnt a bit, a small bit about this journey. Others – the serious ones – told me I am with a very special Person. O yes! I feel more eager now, more committed and my legs are continuing to grow – slowly but surely! Please, Lord Jesus, make my spiritual legs grow and be strong.
Let me go the full length of this most important journey on which you lead me through your Holy Spirit. Please do not let me have my own way. It is a foolish way! Yours is the best and only way! Yours is the way of love and truth. Help me! Amen Song: I need The every hour
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Present
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Photo Gallery
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
With the Compliments of
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
The God Who Loves Us God loves us! This we’re told Told in the Book which is very old; How can we know of this love Apart from the Book of Love? Look around you! The gold of the sunlight, The silver of the moonlight The variety of flowers, the coolness of showers The songs of birds, the planned movement of animal herds, The blue turquoise of the ever-moving ocean waves! And as you continue to look Look in all the nooks – Behold! Strange insects! All busy, all with their plans All nature looks back at you How can you doubt that God loves you!!
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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Our Lady of the Assumption 40th Anniversary Myrian Scott.
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he Catholic Church building in Morant Bay will celebrate its 40 th anniversary this year. Forty years is a milestone as we note in the Bible and in history. We read of some very important events in the Bible such as the Israelites’ sojourn in the desert for forty years before entering Canaan. We also read Jesus stay in the desert for forty days during his temptations. A generation was also forty years. So it is right that the church celebrate this milestone. The Church – Our Lady of the Assumption, was consecrated on August 15, 1969 by the then Archbishop Samuel Carter S.J. during the office of Fr. John Alexander S.J. Many priests have been in charge since then. Now we have Fr. Frank Power S.V.D. and Fr. Yohanes Bally S.V.D. We have also been blessed with seminarians (such as Brother C. Brown who later became a priest and served in Portland for a long time) and “Brothers”. Currently serving is Bro. Bernie Spitzley S.V.D. who is responsible for the
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socio-economic areas of the church. Many hungry and homeless persons give thanks for his ministry. Other seminarians and brothers have also been in the parish and have given priceless service. Visits to the sick and shut-ins are made by members of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. The priests are on call for those ill. Deacon Audley Harrison is also very busy with those ill and the shut-ins, along with his other duties. Deacon Harrison’s service to the church, span several years. During all this time we have seen changes and improvements for the ongoing life of the Church. In earlier times there had been a small preparatory school on the grounds of the church - the steps leading up to it can still be seen-. Later the school had been transferred to Mrs. Fyffe’s place at Summit, Morant Bay. Outreach programmes have also been undertaken with success. One remembers a child who had fallen into a well in Golden Grove in east St Thomas and apparently drowned, was saved and restored by Father Walter and Brother Bernie. It was a miracle!
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
There are not many catholic families in the area and some have left the area for overseas or for other parishes. Therefore there is room for new members all the time. The faith has continually been taught. We recall the early Sunday school under Mrs. Peat - wife of the medical officer of health for the parish – and strangely enough it was kept on Saturday evenings. The Rite of Christian Initiation in Adult R.C.I.A. - programme came into being after the 2nd Vatican Council. This programme was headed by Father J. Surette S.J., Sisters Pearla, Amora and Theresa Jackson who came to St Thomas and spent some time training those catechists who would be working in these areas. One should also remember that other nuns had been in the area serving. Sister Maureen, an Irish Sister worked as a nurse at Princess Margaret hospital also Sister Damien worked at the Morant Bay Primary school as a teacher. She was also Irish. Later they were replaced by Sisters Magda and Alice. Sister Magda was responsible for starting special prayer meetings called Basic Ecclesial Community -B.E.C. - They were very badly missed when they had to leave us.
Sometime during all of this a new rectory had been built as well as a new home for the Sisters. All this made the church more comfortable as well as appreciated by those living there and the members who were attending. There were active members who seemed to be always there and available including Mr. Kilroy Forde, who served on the choir, sometimes as an alter server as well as Special Minister of Communion among other things. Quite a few young boys were trained as alter servers. Among them was Rupert Scott. A caretaker for the church had been Mr Mclegnon. He had lived in a small house very near to where the present house for the Sisters is now. The present grounds have also been improved.
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
In the early days of the church, baptisms had been carried out in the river in Port Morant. The river would be prepared before hand by removing dead leaves etc. from the area. Baptisms began early in the morning and then those baptised and the rest of the company moved to the church where testimonies were given. Those belonging to the other churches left to go and rest until later that night when they attended the Vigil and received other Sacraments –Confirmation, Holy Eucharist. It is interesting to note that on one special year one couple received four sacraments – baptism in the morning and then marriage ceremony in the afternoon and later Confirmation and Holy Eucharist in the night-. It caused quite a stir and many cried, loving the couple. Our present Deacon – Deacon Harrison- was the Master of Ceremonies at the reception which was
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held at the rectory. Mrs I Ashman had baked the wedding cake for the couple. Since then baptisms are no longer done in the river. A baptismal pool has been built in the church, near the alter. It is interesting to note that there are seven steps down into the pool and three steps out. On the night of baptism – for baptisms are done as part of the Easter Vigil in the night. On this special night one feels the spiritual presence even more in the church and there is an air of solemnity as well as rejoicing. Thank God for His mercy and grace! Baptisms of infants are carried out as necessary with god-parents in attendance. One should mention that in the adult baptism, sponsors are also present.
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
There are ministries in the church – Lectors, Hospitality ministers, Special ministers of Holy Communion, those who belong to the choir, alter servers, Catechists, those who visit the sick and shut-ins as well as those belonging to the St. Vincent de Paul Society-. There is also a ministry which provide for the decoration of the church. The priests have been active and foremost in all these ministries and this help the members to better appreciate their work. The Youth Group is active and on-going and a visit to Spain is hoped for next year. It is hoped also that the youth group will increase. Each year the church celebrates the feast of the Assumption. Many people come to this celebration and some look forward to it. It is a celebration for the whole Archdiocese and is beautiful. An Evangelization Group has also been trained to help to improve the numbers attending masses as some persons, including the youths, may attend for a time and then disappear. I should hope that in time they will find something special in the
Catholic faith and develop a need to know more about the faith and practise it. Is the personality of Jesus not appealing enough? Why? Our church is strengthened by the knowledge that she is affiliated with all Roman Catholic churches throughout the world which points to the “Oneness” of all – one of the marks of the church -. As we go on with her we feel a sense of belonging and a surety of purpose. May she grow from strength to strength and may those who enter her doors be blessed!
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
rticle Bernie Spitzley, SVD
I
n the words of St. Paul to the Philippians; “I thank my God each time I think of you, and when I pray for you I pray with joy”!! As this faith community celebrates forty years up on the hill, I reflect on the role we, your Divine Word Missionaries have made here, sharing the four dimensions of our charism. First the Biblical apostolate; the weekly Bible sharing on Tuesday and our attempts to have Bible sharing in the homes, is a work in progress. Second Justice and Peace -- Social Development. Besides the housing project, the St. Vincent DePaul centre has become known as a place of prayer, and distribution of goods. Third, Communications, with articles, power point, evening classes we have proclaimed the Word in many and diverse forms. Finally Mission Animation, the fact that four of us from different
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countries, experiences, backgrounds and languages can live together is a microcosm of the reign of God! Plus the many visitors who have come down to put their faith in action and minster alongside us, give ample evidence of mission animation. So, yes, as this church celebrates forty years, we can celebrate the charism of Divine Word Missionaries here in Morant Bay. My prayer is that as we Divine Word Missionaries continue to serve this faith community, we all will embrace the passion of our Founder, St. Arnold Janssen, “That the heart of Jesus will live in the hearts of all.”. Blessings,
Bernie Spitzley, SVD
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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There Was Just A Small Gathering Bernice Cameron
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t was on a bright and sunny Wednesday morning on the 27th of November 1973 at about 10 am that Clifford Cameron and Bernice Cameron were married by Father Stanley Sharer at the Lady of the Assumption Roman Catholic Church Morant Bay St. Thomas. The church was then about three years old having been built in 1970. There was just a small gathering. Both bride and groom were then living at Pomphret Yallahs and worship at the
Roman Catholic Church in Yallahs. This day was chosen as the birth day present for the bride whose birth date falls on this day. The Best man was Mr. Carenzo Stanton and the bridesmaid was (his wife Mrs. Peggy Stanton) , along with Mrs. Tilly Brown all church members. Now that the church is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this couple is among one of the oldest couple alive who were married in this church and still worshiping at the Lady of the Assumption Church.
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
rticle Pierre A. Tevi-Benissan, SVD
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t is with a profound sense of gratitude and respect that I write you to congratulate you as the present church building celebrates its 40th anniversary. I still recall conversations with many of you about the beginning of the building. I recall specifically stories from many of you who contributed and worked tirelessly to have the church completed. You must be proud that, 40 years later the church is still standing having gone thru many hurricane seasons. You can look back with pride and say: this is my Church and I helped in building it! In addition, the church has grown in numbers during those 40 yrs. And again many of you have invited friends, relatives or brought back former members of the Church. We give thanks to God who has called us to be His Church! I treasure and value a great deal the precious memories and experience of my time among you. As you may recall when I arrived I was just a “likkle bwoy�, fresh
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from the seminary. But I felt welcome and at home. I left a more mature man and of course a little heavier. I have grown in years and grace and in weight!!!. I am very grateful and humbled. The beginning was not that easy: a new place and culture to adjust to: Thank you to many of you who helped me through and taught me about Jamaican people and culture. I have a fulfilling ministry and very profound and life changing experience. However, I would like to share one experience with you that marked me a great deal and perhaps help to shape my vision and gave meaning to my ministry among you. It was about two weeks to Christmas when I arrived in Jamaica to begin my missionary life and experience. Fr. Bernard Latus the then Parish Priest was very kind and considerate and allowed me to be in the main parish (Our Lady of the Assumption) for the Christmas day mass. I was so excited about celebrating in the main Parish and made sure I prepared well for it. On Christmas day, I rose early and made sure I had everything in place for the mass, my
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
first big celebration in a Parish since ordination. I went early to the church waiting to begin the mass. The time for the mass came and went and maybe only a few people in the church. After waiting for more than an hour, I decided to start the mass hoping that those who celebrated late into the night will join us later. Well let us say it never really worked that way. When I finished with the mass I counted about nine people including me in the church. I went to my room and cried and wondered what I am doing here and decided right there to be home for Christmas for my first leave. Yes, you guessed right: I missed the Christmas celebration, the joy, the festivities etc‌. and longed to be home for Christmas and I did! However, in my meditation and reflection, I realized that what matters the most was the fact that few people gathered to pray and to celebrate “Emanuel, God with us! And indeed God was there in our midst (the experience of Elijah on Mount Horeb comes to mind: 1 Kings 19) and that the promise of Christ was true: (Matt. 18:20). God is not only found in the thunder and lightning but also found in the flickering flame and in a
whisper as Elijah found out on Mount Horeb (1Kings 19). Again, where 2 or 3 are gathered in my name, there am I in their midst (Matt. 18:20). As I pondered on these scripture passages and my experience, I learned to appreciate the presence of the Lord in the small, simple and ordinary activities of every day. Indeed it is in and thru these ordinary events in our lives that we meet the extraordinary power and the transforming grace of our God. I did: leaving and working with you. Today, I am sure more than nine people showed up for mass on Christmas day as it was after that first experience. More importantly, I hope and pray that you continue to meet God in the ordinary events of your lives: a visit to a sick sister or brother, a quick call to a friend who has not shown for mass for a few Sundays, sharing a scripture passage or praying with somebody. And may god bless the Church and the community with growth and grace! Pierre A. Tevi-Benissan, SVD
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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A missionary – living to serve Frank Power, SVD
S
ervice and happiness go hand –in-hand. We feel lowest when we are most self-centered, when we are most self-pitying. We are happiest when we are busy doing things for others The life of a missionary is not glamorous, it’s full of hardship. I think that when it comes to serving Jesus it requires a lot of sacrifice. Some of these sacrifices are very easy. Some are much more difficult. Sometimes God will ask you to sacrifice your family and friends and that is a little bit more difficult. That is what happened to me, when I left India to be in Jamaica. My short stay in St. Thomas, Jamaica was filled with many experiences and many human interactions. I understood the people more and more, particularly their customs and beliefs, loved their music and dances, their capacity to celebrate life in spite of harsh conditions and their constant
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struggle against adversity. I admired their willingness to share what little they had. I feel that I grew up there. My mission experience gave me an opportunity. • to interact with the rural people • to experience and encounter the naked realties of rural life • to test the classroom knowledge in the social laboratory • to become aware of my strengths and weakness • to identify and analyze the various forces operative in the society • to become a leader with a fine sense of commitment and deep concern for others Finally, I would like to conclude saying that the experience is an experiment with reality leading to an integral development of personality and meaningful missionary life. I enriched my life by serving them. I am filled with enough memories and convictions forming experiences to carry from my nine months ministry in St. Thomas, Jamaica.
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
rticle Kilroy Ford
T
he Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an international organisation of Roman Catholic lay men and women of all ages, whose primary mission is to serve the poor and the less fortunate. This organisation was founded in France by Blesses Frederick Ozanam and college friends in 1833. Their goal was to help the destitute in the community by giving person-to-person service. In 1904 on January 6th, this Society was introduced to Jamaica by the late Fr. John Harper, SJ. The first Conference was established at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Kingston. Today there are over 50 Conferences islandwide. In St. Thomas parish, the first Conference was established at St. Bartholomew’s Church Yallahs in 1970. This was followed by Assumption Conference in Morant Bay and St. Francis of Assisi Conference in Port Morant in 1994.
Our Lady of the Assumption Conference has on roll 15 members. This Society serves those in need, regardless of creed, background, health, gender or political opinion. We strive to seek out and find those in need and those who are forgotten. With assistance from FOOD FOR THE POOR, our Church community and other donors, we distribute food items and clothing to over one hundred persons on a monthly basis. We visit our shut-ins, pray and sing with them in an effort to cheer them up; we bring Holy Communion to them every month; and at times assist to clean their surroundings among other things. The Society is open to all those who seek to live their faith – loving and committing themselves to their neighbours in need. Our sincere gratitude to all those who donated gifts over the years for us to serve those in need. Finally, let us remember our members who have gone to rest – Sr. Myrtle Connie and Bro. Tony Shrouder (past-Presidents), Sr. Icylin Cowell, Sr. D. Bolton and Sr. Ann Williams. May their souls rest in peace. Kilroy Ford, President.
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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Be Still and Know That I Am God Ironey Ashman
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hen I first joined the Catholic Church, there were no hymnbooks. We were given sheets of paper to sing from. It was later that the Sisters compile these songs into a hymnal. Then we were given hymnbooks in the eighties when Father Cawley was parish priest: then he left and many others came. I was distracted many times, but a voice tells me to continue. When I am anxious about situation in my
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life this short prayer comes to me “be still and know that I am God� in the silence of my heart. So, I continue in every section of the church in taking part, trying to do my best. Now I am old, and most of my working partners have gone on. We always have Tea Parties and other things. In those days the Sisters use to take the people to church on Sunday; Sisters Damian Marie. She has gone on, may God rest her soul.
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Our beloved sister Mrs. Ashman Patrick Findlay
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rs. Ashman, who is now a senior member of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, was introduced to the church by her daughter Carol, who at the time had just relocated to Jamaica from England and was a baptized member of the church. At the time sister Ashman was working at the Princess Margaret Hospital on shift on Sundays, but this did not deter her daughter Carol from encouraging her to visit the church and so she told her that she could instead visit the church in the morning before going to work, which she eventually did. Several weeks after her first visit and while going home from work one day, she had to walk from Seaforth to the Hillside community. Upon reaching home she was so tired that she fell asleep and dreamt that she walked up a hill and saw a beautiful garden with many different types of flowers all around. It so happened that the following week upon revisiting the church, while she was walking up the hill as she reached the brink of the hill in the vicinity of the breadfruit trees, she heard a voice say “this is the hill�. Immediately she remembered the dream she had that evening when she was tired. In astonishment she turned to see if some was
there who spoke to her but there was no one there. She pondered the experience in her heart for the rest of that week following which, see began to attend church regularly. She was encouraged by Father Francis Cawley and Religious Sisters Damion and Moreen who at the time were very active doing missionary work taking people to church in the mornings. She was later baptized in the community of Port Morant by the river by Father Cawley, which was at the time was being used by the church for baptisms . Brother Kelly and Mrs Shrouder were two of the witnesses to her baptism. Sister Ashman has been and continues to be an active member of the Parish. She is a Eucharistic Minister for many years. She resides in York district in St Thomas.
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
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My First Missionary Journey Yohanes Lunga Bally, SVD
T
ime is running so fast. Everything changes all the time. And 40 years? It seems like only a couple of years. Wow, 40 years since this church started which means, inevitably, that it is also during these 40 years, many things have been happening here! We surely know the numbers and the activities of this faith community change all the time, going up and down. Some of our members have gone to their rest and some of them have gone abroad. The same thing is true of our activity in this church. Some activities change, some better, some remain the same. That’s life! Before coming here, I honestly didn’t know much about anything here in this parish. I just remember well the amazement when I got the letter from the Archbishop of Kingston that I am going to be engaged with this faith community. I thought at that
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moment what I am going to do over there? I am just a young missionary who still lacks experience of being a missionary abroad. The only thing I have is myself. So, here I am in what seems like just a few days, but according to the calendar, must be one year. I’m sure I’m not the only one here that has somewhat mixed feelings—proud to be involved in this great celebration but, at the same time, somewhat incredulous that it is indeed 40 years, 30 years, or 20 years, or 10 years, or however many years it might be since we are members here at this faith community. The experience of being here at least one year, provides a fascinating and insightful comparison of my experiences from where I have been. First, I’d like to share with you a few reminiscences about my time as the associate pastor. First and foremost, I can tell you that it is a big deal for me. As a young missionary here in this place, I am still young for everything such as the culture, language and background of this faith community. The only thing I can do is to learn what to be and what to do. That is important. Here I tried to adjust myself and tried to avoid my culture experiences because some aspect do not fit here. Nevertheless, I believe that the seeds for
O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
being a missionary were sown earlier in my life. The second important thing I think about when I reflect on my year at associate pastor is pride. The pastor who I work with is full of experiences. He knows how to be and how to serve. He takes pride in his job and in doing his ministries well. This is infectious and I am developing a strong sense of pride in being a religious missionary. Personally, I remember my limitation in doing some ministries. Once upon I was struggling with my English, feeling very nervous, to see how I had done in the lay training program season .He just simply said it was fine. In this case I liked to maintain my self-image as a foreigner I had learned very hard, harder than I ever had before. The challenge and the sense of pride in being the associate pastor that I had to live up to. Finally, on this anniversary celebration of the influence that my year as associate pastor has had on my life and career, I don’t think it’s too much of an exaggeration to say that I’ve tried as best I can to live up to those core values I’ve described—strive for excellence, appreciate human diversity and inclusiveness, and take pride in what we do. That’s a pretty good formula for our
faith community, and a pretty good formula for life. I’m grateful to all of the members of this faith community and the pastoral team for helping me grow in this. I said earlier, looking back on the past 40 years, my only thought is that we have had a good life being together in this faith community. I’m glad the pastoral team and in particular the organizers of this special 40th anniversary celebration have taken initiative. Let us bind together in one heart building this faith community with a spirit of love and wisdom. Happy anniversary! May God bless us, and that we continue to experience his wonderful blessings in our ministry!
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O u r l a d y of t he a s s um p t ion r om a n c at hol ic c h u r c h
Wisdom “You know B, I need some help to understand this thing:Out of goats and people which one have more senses?” “What you say! (shocked) I am a person not a goat! I’m a person as I said before, not a goat! What liberty!”
“That’s true but all of a sudden now they are talking about it. You see all the flood rains and the whole lot of breeze Coolness is increasing and the volcanoes are getting very active!”
“Wait a little – I’m not doing this too well”
“By the way, don’t Bath is an old volcano?”
“That is true – come call me a goat!! Out of order
“Don’t worry about that now. Let us get back to the goats. They always find a solid place to rest on, and so escape floods etc. But I notice that people build their houses sometimes in a river bed or on the river bank – strange places. So you see how goats use Jesus’ teaching seriously by staying on rock – We stay in river beds bank sides, built-up swampy lands – All sorts of places! Heaven help us!!”
“I did not call you a goat – listen! You ever notice that goats like to go and stand up on some stone and on high places? “Mm! Mm! you better come good, for I never heard such foolish question in my life!” “Quiet a little! Well they are talking a lot about climate change these days. I’m sure you’ve heard it!” “I have no time to listen to foolishness. I’m too busy!
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Climate has been going on from before we were born!”
“Well I have to agree to a point that goats are wise. I am very impressed how they cross the road when it is busy with traffic – But I still do not think they measure up to us! You’ll soon be telling me that if the Lord had put the goat in the Garden of Eden instead of Adan and Eve, things would be different in the world”