Dear Rev.Bishop, Rev. Fathers, Rev. Sisters and my dear Friends, Unity congress is not an end itself. It is the New Beginning! During this post week of Unity Congress, day and night I tried to encapsulate whatever I leant from Unity Congress, this is my intake. I hope and desire this information to be shared to all. Because I freely received and would like to give it freely! 1st Unity Congress in Vicariate Apostolic of Kuwait was held in Kuwait for the past three days. (September 4, 5 and 6, 2008). I witnessed in the Unity Congress the entire community was united as the People of God. I felt that the origin and nationalities is not a barrier for unity and fraternity. What is a Unity Congress? As defined by our beloved Bishop: It is an assembly of representatives of the laity of the Vicariate who will come together with their Bishop and clergy, for a period of time (three days) during which we shall reflect on the reality of our Catholic Church in Kuwait. We shall give-receive some teachings which could help us to understand our reality as \"People of God\" in a deeper way. Hopefully, we shall reach some conclusions for our mission in Kuwait. Snapshot of Rev. Fr.Peter Madross’ three Talks: I met and experienced meeting St.Paul in my life! I acknowledge Rev.Fr.Peter Madross is the successor or St.Paul! He is very knowledgeable about “The Holy Bible” and inspiring person to hang out with. He was born in Palestine on 7th of October 1949, (Jerusalem Boy) He knows 18 - 20 languages! Talk 2: The Holy Bible of the Catholic Church He provoked by questioning is Bible is real word of God? Then he quoted the verse 2 Pet 1:20 that says, Know this first of all, that there is no prophecy of scripture that is a matter of personal interpretation. We Catholics have 46 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament. Who has put together all these books? In fact Church existed before Bible! (This fact really enlightened me!). Around 30 AD Church was been formed, during the first 60 years all these books (New Testament) were not been written! Jews and Protestants have 39 books in the Old Testament. Whereas the 27 books in the New Testament is unanimously all the same in numbers! Martin Luther omitted the letter of James! Since it was contradictory to his teachings! And he omitted in total 3 books. But, in Ecumenical book all these Books are present. Jews call the Bible as Torah (laws/writings). “We need to understand there is no Bible without the Church and the word of God is Spirit and Life”. To get the comparison table of “New Testament texts inspired by passages from the Deutero-canonical Books” You may e-mail to: francisappoline@yahoo.com During the discussion session after Rev. Fr.Peter’s talk our Bishop recommended two standard Bible versions: 1. The New American Bible, and 2. The New Jerusalem Bible. (There are other Catholic Editions also available) Talk 3 Unity in diversity (Rites) One, Holy, Catholic Apostolic Church. Eclesia – Community called and set apart. Rite is inheritance disclosed by the community of an individual Church, living in faith formed through Theology, Liturgy, Spirituality and formation that is diverse due to historical and cultural backgrounds. In short Rite is recognized liturgical tradition. Rite is not a division in the Catholic Church, but the factor that is making the Catholic Church truly universal. We need to really thank God, for thirteen and half centuries we Christians could not set foot here! Talk 4: Catholic Teaching on laity Jesus said you are the salt of the earth. Vatican had spoken about laity; Christi Fedilis – “Faithful in Christ”. Make Christ known is our mission. He quoted 1 Cor.chapter 12 Ver.6 &7. says, there are different workings but the same Lord; 6 there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. In fact, Christians are another Christ! Talk 5 – Our method of evangelization in the Vicariate. The growth of the Catholic Church and community in Kuwait started with a small beginning in the year 1945 by the support of KOC and Government of Kuwait. The first mass was celebrated by a Jesuit, Rev.Fr.James Larkin SJ, on Christmas morning in a tent in Magua. As part two, Rev.Fr.Tony, assessed the present moment by SWOT Analysis (Strengths & Weaknesses). History has shown us, that during times of persecution, the Catholic Church has greatly manifested its Spirituality, Vitality and Religious fervor, but other, more peaceful times, it has stagnated into a complacent routine, lacking all Vitality! We need to ask ourselves; Are we, as the Church in Kuwait, energized and invigorated, or are we heading into doldrums of complacency or even indiffence! Sense of Complacency, a feeling that we have nothing more to accomplish! We are living in the hour of laity; an earnest Request! 1. The Catholic Church entreats all laity to answer promptly and gladly, the invitation of Christ and the promptings of the Holy Spirit. 2. To cooperate with everyone, to promote whatever is true, whatever is just and whatever is Holy and Lovable. We had Holy High Mass with our beloved Bishop on 6th Sept 2008: The liturgies were very apt and had deep meaning towards the Unity Congress Theme! The 1st Reading 1 Cor.12:12-20, 27 Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 23) 2nd Reading: Colossians 3:12-15 Gospel John 6:51:58 (Jesus the Bread of Life) The Homily was given by our Bishop really inspired me the most. Why? The reason being, it had clarity and coherence with all the readings! Snapshot of the Homily: From the 1st reading our Bishop explained “Gap Analysis” from what we would like to be (ideal) to the actual (reality). He stressed that we need to first accept our difference! Then we move on to achieving oneness in “Christ’s body and each one is a part of it”. That we are not an aggregate of different rites or different linguistic and cultural groups. We form one body with Christ as its head. From the 2nd reading, he explained; only when we discover we are sinners and then only able to forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. The process of cycle is that first we discover we are sinners, forgive others and then receive grace from God, to forgive us. From the Gospel reading he made two points as TWO LEVELS: The first level is to stimulate and get stimulated through Eucharistic celebrations. Not only to execute 630 laws as in Old Testament. God wants his people to communicate. The new law is Jesus Christ himself through him God the father is in us. The “Communion” realized through Jesus Christ! The second level is How to have Jesus Christ? Whenever we eat & drink. (Eucharistic is not an obligation!) Our Bishop has encouraged us to read this factor in detail through his 2nd Pastoral Letter 2008-2009, “One Body in Christ” Eucharistic is a necessity! If we want to get stimulated! - To draw life from Jesus Christ - Eucharistic is sacrament which brings unity (To be more united) - Until our end of our life! To eat & drink the flesh of Jesus Christ. - Jesus Christ completely poured out on the cross for us. - This implies to know the cross and to bear our cross in our day to day life! Conclusion: Unity Congress was very informative, inspiring, and involved many think tank sessions of events. It is important to spend time in prayer, and seek the grace of the Holy Spirit that we learned so much about with our theme John 17:22 \"They may be one\". If you are not used to prayer, start with something simple each day, talk to your parish priest or prayerful people that you know. Seek; the Sacraments - through our Church we have access to the Power that Christ teaches to the Apostles. In particular, I encourage you to regularly seek out the Eucharist, the means in which our Unity Congress Fellowship is held in Communion with Jesus Christ. You can also experience the power of the Holy Spirit through the mercy and compassion of forgiveness in the beautiful sacrament of Reconciliation. Seek your vocation and do not be afraid, for through this commitment we find life. Act; as the apostle you know you are - Pope Benedict XVI reminded us that our life is not governed by chance. Our existence is not random – it has been willed by God, blessed and given a purpose. Make use of your gifts and build the civilization of love starting with your family, friends and parish. \"Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for; it is a thing to be achieved.\" Let us pray for our mission in Kuwait to be achieved through Our Lady of Arabia. Our Lady of Arabia prays for our Unity. I look forward to continuing our friendship as we walk together as one body. Stay strong and keep close to the Lord! In Christ Francis E-mail : francisappoline@gmail.com Cellular # : 965-6203674 (M) http://www.cig.canon-europe.com/a?i=lolZLVDpp7 Password to access the online photo album: loveSeptember 14, 2008 03:19:43 AM
VICARIATE APOSTOLIC OF KUWAIT UNITY CONGRESS John 17:22 They may be one “And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one,” Dear Rev.Bishop, Rev. Fathers, Rev. Sisters and my dear Friends, Unity congress is not an end itself. It is the New Beginning! During this post week of Unity Congress, day and night I tried to encapsulate whatever I leant from Unity Congress, this is my intake. I hope and desire this information to be shared to all. Because I freely received and would like to give it freely! I witnessed in the Unity Congress the entire community was united as the People of God. I felt that the origin and nationalities is not a barrier for unity and fraternity. 1st Unity Congress in Vicariate Apostolic of Kuwait was held in Kuwait for the past three days. (September 4, 5 and 6, 2008). What is a Unity Congress? As defined by our beloved Bishop: It is an assembly of representatives of the laity of the Vicariate who will come together with their Bishop and clergy, for a period of time (three days) during which we shall reflect on the reality of our Catholic Church in Kuwait. We shall give-receive some teachings which could help us to understand our reality as \"People of God\" in a deeper way. Hopefully, we shall reach some conclusions for our mission in Kuwait. The power packed topics delivered were as follows: 1. Catholic Church history in Lay perspective of Unity, by Mr. C V Joseph 2. The Bible of the Catholic Church, by Rev. Fr. Peter Madross 3. Unity in Diversity (Rites), by Rev. Fr. Peter Madross 4. Church Teaching on Laity, by Rev. Fr.Peter Madross 5. Our method of Evangelization in the Vicariate, By Rev. Fr.Tony D\'Souza Snapshot of Fr.Peter Madross’ three Talks: I met and experienced meeting St.Paul in my life! I acknowledge Rev.Fr.Peter Madross is the successor or St.Paul! He is very knowledgeable about “The Holy Bible” and inspiring person to hang out with. He was born in Palestine on 7th of October 1949, (Jerusalem Boy) He knows 18 - 20 languages! Talk 2: The Holy Bible of the Catholic Church He provoked by questioning is Bible is real word of God? Then he quoted the verse 2 Pet 1:20 that says, Know this first of all, that there is no prophecy of scripture that is a matter of personal interpretation. We Catholics have 46 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament. Who has put together all these books? In fact Church existed before Bible! (This fact really enlightened me!). Around 30 AD Church was been formed, during the first 60 years all these books (New Testament) were not been written! Jews and Protestants have 39 books in the Old Testament. Whereas the 27 books in the New Testament is unanimously all the same in numbers! Martin Luther omitted the letter of James! Since it was contradictory to his teachings! And he omitted in total 3 books. But, in Ecumenical book all these Books are present. Jews call the Bible as Torah (laws/writings). Old Testament i.e. last will of a person, it is Sacred Hebrew Scriptures (39 books written in Hebrew) vs. New Testament is written in Greek language. We have Apostolic tradition not Jewish tradition. But it should not be anymore traditions but teachings. He quoted aptly 2 The.2:14 which says, “To this end he has (also) called you through our gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 Therefore, brothers, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught, either by an oral statement or by a letter of ours”. 2 Thes.3:6 says, “we instruct you, brothers, in the name of (our) Lord Jesus Christ, to shun any brother who conducts himself in a disorderly way and not according to the tradition they received from us”. Protestants keeps Jewish tradition not the Apostolic Christian tradition! Since 1520, 7 books disappeared in Bible! “We need to understand there is no Bible without the Church and the word of God is Spirit and Life”. New Testament texts inspired by passages from the Deutero-canonical Books: Luke 14:13-14 When you have a party, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; that cannot pay you back means that you are fortunate, because the payment will be made to you when the virtues rise again. Tobit 4:7 and 10 and 17: Give alms out of your substance and turn not away your face from any poor person, for so it shall come to pass that the face of the Lord shall not be turned from you. For thus you store up to yourself a good reward for the day of necessity. Eat your bread with the hungry and the needy, and with your garments cover the naked. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification, that you abstain from immorality Tobit 4:13 Take heed to keep yourself, my son, from all fornication, and besides your wife never endure to know a crime. Matthew 7:12 (Luke 6:31) Therefore, all that you wish men to do to you, even so do you also to them. Tobit 4:16: See; never do to another what you would hate to have done to you by another. Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come that will be revealed in us. Tobit 4:23: Fear not, my son. We lead indeed a poor life, but we fear God, and depart from all sins, and do that which is good. 1 Corinthians 10:9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them tempted, and perished by the serpents. Judith 8:24-25: But they that did not receive the trials with the fear of the Lord, but uttered their impatience and the reproach of their murmuring against the Lord were destroyed by the Destroyer and perished by serpents. Luke 1:42: Blessed are you among women! Judith 13:23: And Ozias the prince of the people of Israel said to her, ‘Blessed are you, O daughter, by the Lord the Most High God, above all women upon the earth’. (Bit exaggerated!) 1 Corinthians 15:32: If the dead do not rise, let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we shall die! Wisdom 2:6: Come, therefore, let us enjoy the good things that are real, and use the freshness of creation avidly – 7: Let us have our fill of costly wine and perfumes, and let no springtime blossom pass us by . . . Matthew 27:43: ‘He trusted in God, let Him deliver him now, if He wants him, for he said, I am the son of God’. Wisdom 2:13: ‘He professes to have knowledge of God and styles himself a child of the Lord’. John 7:7 The world cannot hate you but it hates me because I bear witness against it that its works are evil. Wisdom 2:14-15: Because his life is not like other men’s, and different are his ways; he is the censure of our thoughts, merely to see him is a hardship for us. Matthew 13:43: Then the righteous will shine forth like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father Wisdom 3:7 In the time of their visitation, they shall shine and shall dart about as sparks through stubble. 1 Corinthians 6:2: Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? Wisdom 3:8 They shall judge nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord shall be their King forever. Matthew 7:27: And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat against that house; and it fell … Wisdom 3:8: For even though their branches flourish for a time, they are unsteady and shall be rocked by the wind and, by the violence of the winds, uprooted. Romans 13:1 (also 1 Peter 2:13-14) Let everyone be subject to the higher authorities, for there exists no authority except from God… Wisdom 6:4 (or 3) Because authority was given you by the Lord and sovereignty by the Most High… Hebrew 1:3 (The Son)… is the brightness of His Glory and the Image of His Substance and upholding all things by the word of His Power… Wisdom 7:26: For (wisdom) is the refulgence of eternal light, the spotless mirror of the power of God, the image of His goodness. Romans 1:18 and 19 and 21 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and wickedness of those men who … hold back the truth of God seeing that what may be known about God is manifest to them. For God has manifested it to them.Seeing that, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God or give thanks but became vain in their reasoning, and their senseless minds have been darkened. Wisdom 13:1 and 5 and 7 For all men were by nature foolish who were in ignorance of God and who from the good things seen did not succeed in knowing Him who is, and from studying the works did not discern the Artisan… Romans 9:21: Or is not the potter master of his clay to make from the same mass one vessel for honorable, another for ignoble use? Wisdom 15:7 For truly the potter laboriously working the soft earth molds for our service each several article” both the vessels that serve for clean purposes and their opposites… 2 Timothy 3:12: All who want to live piously in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. Ecclesiasticus (Book of Sirach) 2:1 My son, when you come to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for trials, - 2: Be sincere of heart and steadfast, undisturbed in time of adversity To get this comparison table of power point presentation You may e-mail to: francisappoline@yahoo.com During the discussion session after Rev. Fr.Peter’s talk our Bishop recommended two standard Bible versions: 1. The New American Bible, and 2. The New Jerusalem Bible. (There are other Catholic Editions also available) Talk 3 Unity in diversity (Rites) Let them be one, it is merged by the Holy Spirit, Catholic means Whole to be complete. In other words it implies integrity. Church is catholic and its faith is orthodox. In Baptists’ church everyone is Pope! In Armenian orthodox, two popes, one in Armenia and another in Lebanon. It’s unity not uniformity. Where do the rights come from? It basically originated from Jerusalem. St.James was the first bishop of Jerusalem. Maronites attribute to St.Maron. Iraq Calthians joins Catholic Church. Armenian Catholic, Syrian Catholic and Syriac & Coptic. Catholicism is the only entity existed for a longtime. First Latin rite is Greek. We can’t be catholic if we are divided! Catholic Church has many rites but as for as rites are concern they can operate within its boundary. We need to really thank God, for thirteen and half centuries we Christians could not set foot here! Talk 4: Catholic Teaching on laity Jesus said you are the salt of the earth. Christianity vs. Christendom Vatican had spoken about laity; Christi Fedilis – “Faithful in Christ”. Even Jesus’ disciple experienced the Ideal vs. reality during transfiguration process. Make Christ known is our mission. He quoted 1 Cor.chapter 12 Ver.6 &7. says, there are different workings but the same Lord; 6 there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. In fact, Christians are another Christ! Talk 5 – Our method of evangelization in the Vicariate. The growth of the Catholic Church and community in Kuwait started with a small beginning in the year 1945 by the support of KOC and Government of Kuwait. The first mass was celebrated by a Jesuit, Rev.Fr.James Larkin, on Christmas morning in a tent in Magua. In 1948, 5th April, the first resident priest, Rev. Fr. Teofano Ubaldo Stella, ocd, (Catholic Chaplain at KOC) Arrived in Kuwait. Mass was celebrated on Fridays in the Cinema Hall. Ahmadi – the beginning, 1953:30th June, Pope Pius erected this small catholic centre as an independent prefecture Apostolic, entrusting it to the discalced Carmelites. (ocd) Rev. Fr.Stella was appointed as prefect Apostolic. In 1954, 2nd Dec. Pope Pius XII raised the catholic centre in Kuwait to become a Bishopric, and the vicariate Apostolic of Kuwait came into being. In 1955:8th September, blessed by Pope Pius XII, the cornerstone was laid, for the present church “Our Lady of Arabia”. 1955:3rd Oct. MSGR.Teofano Ubaldo Stella, was consecrated in Milan, as Kuwait’s first Bishop. In 1956:1st April Bishop Stella blessed the new Church of Our Lady of Arabia. In 1957:27th Jan, Kuwait City – The Cathedral’s foundation stone was laid by Bishop Stella. In 1961:16th March, Bishop Stella celebrated the first Mass after blessing the Holy Family Cathedral. In 1969:27th March, four sisters of the Apostolic Carmel from India landed in Kuwait at the invitation of Indian expatriates and Msgr. Sanmiguel. In 1969 8th April, the Carmel School made its debut with just four students on the roll, in a small rented apartment at Shamiyeh. In 1982:15th Jan, Msgr. Francis George Micallef, ocd, Kuwait’s third Catholic Bishop Take charge of the Vicariate, when Bishop Victor Sanmiguel retired at the age of 78. In 2002:April, the Salesians of Don Bosco started the Indian English Academy School under the administrative guidance of Salesian Society. In 2005:2nd Sept.Msgr.Camillo Ballin, MCCJ was consecrated Bishop in the Holy Family Cathedral by his eminence Crescengio Cardinal Sepe and was installed as the 4th Vicar Apostolic of Kuwait. In 1974: January, Salmiya Church the present premises of the Chapel was secured. In 2006: 28th July following a decree by His Lordship, Bishop Camillo Ballin,MCCJ, Vicar Apostolic of Kuwait changed the name of the Holy Redeemer Chapel to “The Church of St.Therese of Child Jesus”. It was canonically erected into parish (Canon # 515). Rev.Fr.Berchmans Aruldoss, ocd, was appointed as the first Parish Priest, and Rev.Fr.Thomas Vadekadam, ocd, as Assistant Parish Priest. In 2008: 3rd of August, the Church was entrusted to the Salesians of Don Bosco and Rev.Fr.Tony D’Souza, SDB was appointed as its 2nd Parish Priest. As part two, Rev.Fr.Tony, assessed the present moment by SWOT Analysis (Strengths & Weaknesses). History has shown us, that during times of persecution, the Catholic Church has greatly manifested its Spirituality, Vitality and Religious fervor, but other, more peaceful times, it has stagnated into a complacent routine, lacking all Vitality! We need to ask ourselves; Are we, as the Church in Kuwait, energized and invigorated, or are we heading into doldrums of complacency or even indiffence! Sense of Complacency, a feeling that we have nothing more to accomplish! In the mission entrusted to His disciples, Jesus urges us; “As you go, make this proclamation: the kingdom of heaven is at hand” Mathew 10:7 This is our mission: This is our awakening call; this is our Apostolate: The apostolate of the laity, Heralded by Vatican II, and encouraged by recent Popes! Vatican II says, Church as “People of God” What is lay Apostolate? It is the responsibility of Christians, to be true followers of Christ, Sharing in His mission of teacher, priest and king; Teaching, Sanctifying and ruling in His name. What we now need is an individual and collective spirit of unity in evangelization, so that our Church community grows, both in Spirituality, size and stature. The second Vatican council widened the doors of the Church for a greater participation of laity. When it defined the Church as, “The people of God”. Availing ourselves of this invitation, we, the Church in Kuwait should strive for a more vibrant, active and dynamic apostolate of the laity. Vocation to the Apostolate of the laity Canon law 759 talks about lay people rights. ‘The lay members of Christ’s faithful, by reason of their Baptism and Confirmation, are witnesses to the Good News of the Gospel, by their words and by the example of their Christian Life.’ In the Church there is a diversity of ministries, yet, oneness of mission: Make Christ known and loved. He explained further the hierarchy in the Church; each according to his or her own calling: Men and women working together for the greater glory of God’s kingdom. The Holy Spirit is at work, at all times and with all people, in this apostolate of the laity; so we need to pray for a discernment of our role in the Church. Make Christ known is our mission. He quoted 1 Cor.chapter 12 Ver.6 &7. Says, there are different workings but the same Lord; 6 there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. The Success of Every Apostolate Depends on the Person’s Union with Christ, This is nourished by: • Meditation on the word of god; • Participation in sacred liturgy; • A prayerful life; • And acts of faith, • Hope and Charity. The perfect example of lay apostolate is the Blessed Virgin Mary, The Queen of the Apostles. All should venerate her and commend their life and apostolate to her care. Objectives of the Apostolate of the Laity: THE TWO-FOLD MISSION OF THE CHURCH 1. TO BRING TO ALL, THE MESSAGE AND GRACE OF CHRIST. 2. TO EFFECTIVELY UTILIZE AND PERFECT THE TEMPORAL ORDER WITH THE GOSPEL. This apostolate begins with the individual and that individual is you. Our words and deeds are most effective in bringing the message and grace of Christ to all. Our good example of holiness will pave the way for people, Christians and non-Christians alike, to want to follow Jesus, our leader; Whose greatest command is: “love god; and love one another, as I have loved you.” The various fields of the Apostolate: An active involvement in Church activities in any role, big or small is the calling of the laity. Above all, every Christians is called to be a witness of Christ Jesus. There are many who can only hear the Gospel, through the words, the deeds, and the life of the laity around them. The laity may engage in this apostolate as individuals or in association reaching out to people by public worship and prayer; by charitable acts of kindness; by penance and good works or by carrying their crosses, without complaint. Individual apostolate is essential where freedom is curtailed and the laity stand for priests, even to the extend of risking their lives. Individual apostolate is especially needed where Catholics are few and scattered. Catholics associations strive for improvement in all areas of their activities: Sanctifications of its members: Evangelization and Sanctification of others. Commitment to charitable service. Working as an organic body, in a spirit of love and unity. Expansion of its association with like minded people. This apostolate can attain maximum effectiveness through diversified and thorough formation under the guidance of the clergy. The lay person should learn how to perform the mission of Christ, by basing personal life on the teachings of the Christ. He should be sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. He should cultivate good human relations, being able to cooperate fraternally, with all people and cultures. He should strive to review and assess all things in the light of the faith. The Hierarchy and the laity of the Church: No Association can claim the name “Catholic”, unless the following terms and conditions are fulfilled: 1. Clear approach from Church authority. 2. Cooperation with the Church Hierarchy; the Pope, Bishops, Priests & Deacons. 3. Function under the direction and the mandate of the hierarchy. In mutual esteem, units and cooperation with the laity, the hierarchy of the Church of the Church (the Clergy) has its own role in this Apostolate. The role of the hierarchy in lay Apostolate: 1. Promote the Association especially involving the youth in various ministries. 2. Provide Spiritual guidance and principles. Nourish the spiritual life and apostolic attitude in Catholic Associations. 3. Support and direct the conduct of large apostolate. 4. Assign pastoral & other duties to the members to the laity who meet the requirements. 5. Teach and authentically interpret moral principles for institutions in the temporal order. 6. Promote cooperation and coordination among various lay associations. 7. Educate and train volunteers. 8. Provides aids in formation. “All focused on Sacred Scriptures and Catholic Doctrine”. We are living in the hour of laity; an earnest Request! The Catholic Church entreats all laity to answer promptly and gladly, the invitation of Christ and the promptings of the Holy Spirit. To cooperate with everyone, to promote whatever is true, whatever is just and whatever is Holy and Lovable. Group Discussions: I. Workshop Questionnaire: for Talk-1: Catholic Church history in lay perspective of unity. 1. The history of the Church shows us the many persecutions faced by the followers of Christ, in union with Him. a. What have the persecutions suffered by the Church, done to its growth and unity? b. What was the source of strength of early Christians who stood united and firm in faith during these persecutions? c. Do you find any type of persecution being suffered by the Universal Church, today? d. How do you rate “sufferings” in your life? How are they useful in strengthening and uniting the Church? e. Are you ready to accept any persecution or suffering for the growth and unity of the Church of Kuwait? If yes, what sufferings would you like to offer to the Lord for the Unity of the Church in Kuwait? 2. There are many occasions, in the History of the Church, when the Laity has contributed with extra-ordinary courage and displayed their unshaken faith. a. Who is the Saint who has attracted you the most, in faithfully carrying out the task entrusted to him or her, and why? b. What are the qualities that differentiate this particular Saint from others? c. What qualities would you like to emulate/copy from the life of this Saint? 3. We have seen how false teachings came into the United Church and how they caused disunity and disharmony. a. What is your view on the teachings of the Catholic Church on faith and morals? How do these teachings keep the faithful united? b. How could you get access to the official teachings of the Catholic Church and what initiatives would you take to become well-versed with these teachings? c. Have you encountered any type of false teachings circulating among believers in the Church of Kuwait? If so, what are these false teachings that are creeping in and affecting the unity of the Catholic Church? d. In your opinion, what are the reasons, that some of the faithful deviate from the True Faith and Teachings of the Church? e. How can you, as a believer and true disciple, correct someone who is misguided by false teachings? 4. The Church is the Body of Christ and we are all members of that same Body. a. As members of the Body of Christ, where does the particular community you belong to, stand today? Is there any scope for improvement in the relationship between communities? b. As a believer and faithful follower of Christ, what would be your advice to your community to foster the unity of the Church in Kuwait? c. What are the steps, currently being taken in your community to ensure unity within the community itself? 5. Over the years, Liturgical Services in different Rites have been sanctioned by the Church. a. Are you familiar with the different Rites in the Catholic Church? b. How do they enrich the Church and contribute towards the “one flock, one Shepherd” understanding the Church? II. Workshop Questionnaire: Talk-2: The Bible of the Catholic Church Talk-3: Unity in Diversity, One Catholic Church, Many Rites, Rites & Rights. 1. How many Bible versions are there? Why is it important for us to know and pray the Bible of the Catholic Church? What is special about this Catholic Bible? Do we have the Holy Bible in our homes and how do we use it? 2. Give three suggestions to know the Holy Bible better. 3. Outside the Church, many denominations use the Bible and some Catholics go to them. Why? 4. Can there be real “Unity in diversity”? When Latin was the language of worship in the Catholic Church there was more unity. Discuss. 5. How many Rites are there in the Catholic Church? What is the history of the Rites and how do the Rites foster are Faith and promote unity among Catholics? III. Workshop Questionnaire: Talk-5: Our method of evangelization in the Vicariate 1. How important is unity for Evangelization? Is the image of the Christian Community in Kuwait reflecting the “Unity” of Apostolic times? List some of the sensitive issues you think, that distort the unity of the Church in Kuwait. 2. The Church in Kuwait is called to be an “Evangelized and Evangelizing People of God!” What percentage of Catholics in Kuwait, experience a sense of belonging and are actively involved in the Apostolic Vicariate / Parish community? How can this sense of belonging and involvement be fostered among the Catholics even more? 3. How could the leadership and spiritual animation provided by the Bishop and the clergy support the faith and life of Catholics who stray away from the Church to meet Jesus Christ elsewhere? What should be our attitude towards people of the different Christian denominations/sects and other Religions? 4. What does Jesus mean when he says: “You are the light of the world”, salt of the earth”, and “yeast in the dough”. How could we Catholics respond to this calling and become “Evangelizers” in the context of the Islamic State of Kuwait? Discuss some methods of proclaiming Christ, such as a “Dialogue” of friendly relationships, charitable assistance and common social service activities. 5. Kindly suggest FIVE practical lines of action (resolutions) that will promote qualitative change within our Catholic Community to grow in the Unity that Jesus prayed for? We had Holy High Mass with our beloved Bishop on 6th Sept 2008: The liturgies were very apt and had deep meaning towards the Unity Congress Theme! The 1st Reading 1 Cor.12:12-20, 27 Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 23) 2nd Reading: Colossians 3:12-15 Gospel John 6:51:58 (Jesus the Bread of Life) The Homily was given by our Bishop really inspired me the most. Why? The reason being, it had clarity and coherence with all the readings! Snapshot of the Homily: From the 1st reading our Bishop explained “Gap Analysis” from what we would like to be (ideal) to the actual (reality). He stressed that we need to first accept our difference! Then we move on to achieving oneness in “Christ’s body and each one is a part of it”. That we are not an aggregate of different rites or different linguistic and cultural groups. We form one body with Christ as its head. From the 2nd reading, he explained; only when we discover we are sinners and then able to forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. The process of cycle is that first we discover we are sinners, forgive others and then receive grace from God, to forgive us. From the Gospel reading he made two points as TWO LEVELS: The first level is to stimulate and get stimulated through Eucharistic celebrations. Not only to execute 630 laws as in Old Testament. God wants his people to communicate. The new law is Jesus Christ himself through him God the father is in us. The “Communion” realized through Jesus Christ! The second level is How to have Jesus Christ? Whenever we eat & drink. (Eucharistic is not an obligation!) Our Bishop has encourages us to read this factor in detail through his 2nd Pastoral Letter 2008-2009, “One Body in Christ” Eucharistic is a necessity! If we want to get stimulated! - To draw life from Jesus Christ - Eucharistic is sacrament which brings unity (To be more united) - Until our end of our life! To eat & drink the flesh of Jesus Christ. - Jesus Christ completely poured out on the cross for us. - This implies to know the cross and to bear our cross in our day to day life! Unity Congress was very informative, inspiring, and involved many think tank sessions of events. It is important to spend time in prayer, and seek the grace of the Holy Spirit that we learned so much about with our theme John 17:22 \"They may be one\". If you are not used to prayer, start with something simple each day, talk to your parish priest or prayerful people that you know. Seek; the Sacraments - through our Church we have access to the Power that Christ teaches to the Apostles. In particular, I encourage you to regularly seek out the Eucharist, the means in which our Unity Congress Fellowship is held in Communion with Jesus Christ. You can also experience the power of the Holy Spirit through the mercy and compassion of forgiveness in the beautiful sacrament of Reconciliation. Seek your vocation and do not be afraid, for through this commitment we find life. Act; as the apostle you know you are - Pope Benedict XVI reminded us that our life is not governed by chance. Our existence is not random – it has been willed by God, blessed and given a purpose. Make use of your gifts and build the civilization of love starting with your family, friends and parish. \"Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for; it is a thing to be achieved.\" Let us pray for our mission in Kuwait to be achieved through our lady of Arabia. Our Lady of Arabia prays for our Unity. I look forward to continuing our friendship as we walk together as one body. Stay strong and keep close to the Lord! In Christ Francis E-mail : francisappoline@gmail.com Cellular # : 965-6203674 (M) http://www.unitycongress.giibo.com/testimonials.php http://www.cig.canon-europe.com/a?i=lolZLVDpp7 Password to access the online photo album: loveSeptember 12, 2008 01:27:43 AM
VICARIATE APOSTOLIC OF KUWAIT UNITY CONGRESS John 17:22 They may be one “And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one,” Dear Rev.Bishop, Rev. Fathers, Rev. Sisters and my dear Friends, Unity congress is not an end itself. It is the New Beginning! During this post week of Unity Congress, day and night I tried to encapsulate whatever I leant from Unity Congress, this is my intake. I hope and desire this information to be shared to all. Because I freely received and would like to give it freely! I witnessed in the Unity Congress the entire community was united as the People of God. I felt that the origin and nationalities is not a barrier for unity and fraternity. 1st Unity Congress in Vicariate Apostolic of Kuwait was held in Kuwait for the past three days. (September 4, 5 and 6, 2008). What is a Unity Congress? As defined by our beloved Bishop: It is an assembly of representatives of the laity of the Vicariate who will come together with their Bishop and clergy, for a period of time (three days) during which we shall reflect on the reality of our Catholic Church in Kuwait. We shall give-receive some teachings which could help us to understand our reality as \"People of God\" in a deeper way. Hopefully, we shall reach some conclusions for our mission in Kuwait. The power packed topics delivered were as follows: 1. Catholic Church history in Lay perspective of Unity, by Mr. C V Joseph 2. The Bible of the Catholic Church, by Rev. Fr. Peter Madross 3. Unity in Diversity (Rites), by Rev. Fr. Peter Madross 4. Church Teaching on Laity, by Rev. Fr.Peter Madross 5. Our method of Evangelization in the Vicariate, By Rev. Fr.Tony D\'Souza Snapshot of Fr.Peter Madross’ three Talks: I met and experienced meeting St.Paul in my life! I acknowledge Rev.Fr.Peter Madross is the successor or St.Paul! He is very knowledgeable about “The Holy Bible” and inspiring person to hang out with. He was born in Palestine on 7th of October 1949, (Jerusalem Boy) He knows 18 - 20 languages! Talk 2: The Holy Bible of the Catholic Church He provoked by questioning is Bible is real word of God? Then he quoted the verse 2 Pet 1:20 that says, Know this first of all, that there is no prophecy of scripture that is a matter of personal interpretation. We Catholics have 46 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament. Who has put together all these books? In fact Church existed before Bible! (This fact really enlightened me!). Around 30 AD Church was been formed, during the first 60 years all these books (New Testament) were not been written! Jews and Protestants have 39 books in the Old Testament. Whereas the 27 books in the New Testament is unanimously all the same in numbers! Martin Luther omitted the letter of James! Since it was contradictory to his teachings! And he omitted in total 3 books. But, in Ecumenical book all these Books are present. Jews call the Bible as Torah (laws/writings). Old Testament i.e. last will of a person, it is Sacred Hebrew Scriptures (39 books written in Hebrew) vs. New Testament is written in Greek language. We have Apostolic tradition not Jewish tradition. But it should not be anymore traditions but teachings. He quoted aptly 2 The.2:14 which says, “To this end he has (also) called you through our gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 Therefore, brothers, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught, either by an oral statement or by a letter of ours”. 2 Thes.3:6 says, “we instruct you, brothers, in the name of (our) Lord Jesus Christ, to shun any brother who conducts himself in a disorderly way and not according to the tradition they received from us”. Protestants keeps Jewish tradition not the Apostolic Christian tradition! Since 1520, 7 books disappeared in Bible! “We need to understand there is no Bible without the Church and the word of God is Spirit and Life”. New Testament texts inspired by passages from the Deutero-canonical Books: Luke 14:13-14 When you have a party, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; that cannot pay you back means that you are fortunate, because the payment will be made to you when the virtues rise again. Tobit 4:7 and 10 and 17: Give alms out of your substance and turn not away your face from any poor person, for so it shall come to pass that the face of the Lord shall not be turned from you. For thus you store up to yourself a good reward for the day of necessity. Eat your bread with the hungry and the needy, and with your garments cover the naked. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification, that you abstain from immorality Tobit 4:13 Take heed to keep yourself, my son, from all fornication, and besides your wife never endure to know a crime. Matthew 7:12 (Luke 6:31) Therefore, all that you wish men to do to you, even so do you also to them. Tobit 4:16: See; never do to another what you would hate to have done to you by another. Romans 8:18 For I reckon that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory to come that will be revealed in us. Tobit 4:23: Fear not, my son. We lead indeed a poor life, but we fear God, and depart from all sins, and do that which is good. 1 Corinthians 10:9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them tempted, and perished by the serpents. Judith 8:24-25: But they that did not receive the trials with the fear of the Lord, but uttered their impatience and the reproach of their murmuring against the Lord were destroyed by the Destroyer and perished by serpents. Luke 1:42: Blessed are you among women! Judith 13:23: And Ozias the prince of the people of Israel said to her, ‘Blessed are you, O daughter, by the Lord the Most High God, above all women upon the earth’. (Bit exaggerated!) 1 Corinthians 15:32: If the dead do not rise, let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we shall die! Wisdom 2:6: Come, therefore, let us enjoy the good things that are real, and use the freshness of creation avidly – 7: Let us have our fill of costly wine and perfumes, and let no springtime blossom pass us by . . . Matthew 27:43: ‘He trusted in God, let Him deliver him now, if He wants him, for he said, I am the son of God’. Wisdom 2:13: ‘He professes to have knowledge of God and styles himself a child of the Lord’. John 7:7 The world cannot hate you but it hates me because I bear witness against it that its works are evil. Wisdom 2:14-15: Because his life is not like other men’s, and different are his ways; he is the censure of our thoughts, merely to see him is a hardship for us. Matthew 13:43: Then the righteous will shine forth like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father Wisdom 3:7 In the time of their visitation, they shall shine and shall dart about as sparks through stubble. 1 Corinthians 6:2: Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? Wisdom 3:8 They shall judge nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord shall be their King forever. Matthew 7:27: And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat against that house; and it fell … Wisdom 3:8: For even though their branches flourish for a time, they are unsteady and shall be rocked by the wind and, by the violence of the winds, uprooted. Romans 13:1 (also 1 Peter 2:13-14) Let everyone be subject to the higher authorities, for there exists no authority except from God… Wisdom 6:4 (or 3) Because authority was given you by the Lord and sovereignty by the Most High… Hebrew 1:3 (The Son)… is the brightness of His Glory and the Image of His Substance and upholding all things by the word of His Power… Wisdom 7:26: For (wisdom) is the refulgence of eternal light, the spotless mirror of the power of God, the image of His goodness. Romans 1:18 and 19 and 21 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and wickedness of those men who … hold back the truth of God seeing that what may be known about God is manifest to them. For God has manifested it to them.Seeing that, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God or give thanks but became vain in their reasoning, and their senseless minds have been darkened. Wisdom 13:1 and 5 and 7 For all men were by nature foolish who were in ignorance of God and who from the good things seen did not succeed in knowing Him who is, and from studying the works did not discern the Artisan… Romans 9:21: Or is not the potter master of his clay to make from the same mass one vessel for honorable, another for ignoble use? Wisdom 15:7 For truly the potter laboriously working the soft earth molds for our service each several article” both the vessels that serve for clean purposes and their opposites… 2 Timothy 3:12: All who want to live piously in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. Ecclesiasticus (Book of Sirach) 2:1 My son, when you come to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for trials, - 2: Be sincere of heart and steadfast, undisturbed in time of adversity To get this comparison table of power point presentation You may e-mail to: francisappoline@yahoo.com During the discussion session after Rev. Fr.Peter’s talk our Bishop recommended two standard Bible versions: 1. The New American Bible, and 2. The New Jerusalem Bible. (There are other Catholic Editions also available) Talk 3 Unity in diversity (Rites) Let them be one, it is merged by the Holy Spirit, Catholic means Whole to be complete. In other words it implies integrity. Church is catholic and its faith is orthodox. In Baptists’ church everyone is Pope! In Armenian orthodox, two popes, one in Armenia and another in Lebanon. It’s unity not uniformity. Where do the rights come from? It basically originated from Jerusalem. St.James was the first bishop of Jerusalem. Maronites attribute to St.Maron. Iraq Calthians joins Catholic Church. Armenian Catholic, Syrian Catholic and Syriac & Coptic. Catholicism is the only entity existed for a longtime. First Latin rite is Greek. We can’t be catholic if we are divided! Catholic Church has many rites but as for as rites are concern they can operate within its boundary. We need to really thank God, for thirteen and half centuries we Christians could not set foot here! Talk 4: Catholic Teaching on laity Jesus said you are the salt of the earth. Christianity vs. Christendom Vatican had spoken about laity; Christi Fedilis – “Faithful in Christ”. Even Jesus’ disciple experienced the Ideal vs. reality during transfiguration process. Make Christ known is our mission. He quoted 1 Cor.chapter 12 Ver.6 &7. says, there are different workings but the same Lord; 6 there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. In fact, Christians are another Christ! Talk 5 – Our method of evangelization in the Vicariate. The growth of the Catholic Church and community in Kuwait started with a small beginning in the year 1945 by the support of KOC and Government of Kuwait. The first mass was celebrated by a Jesuit, Rev.Fr.James Larkin, on Christmas morning in a tent in Magua. In 1948, 5th April, the first resident priest, Rev. Fr. Teofano Ubaldo Stella, ocd, (Catholic Chaplain at KOC) Arrived in Kuwait. Mass was celebrated on Fridays in the Cinema Hall. Ahmadi – the beginning, 1953:30th June, Pope Pius erected this small catholic centre as an independent prefecture Apostolic, entrusting it to the discalced Carmelites. (ocd) Rev. Fr.Stella was appointed as prefect Apostolic. In 1954, 2nd Dec. Pope Pius XII raised the catholic centre in Kuwait to become a Bishopric, and the vicariate Apostolic of Kuwait came into being. In 1955:8th September, blessed by Pope Pius XII, the cornerstone was laid, for the present church “Our Lady of Arabia”. 1955:3rd Oct. MSGR.Teofano Ubaldo Stella, was consecrated in Milan, as Kuwait’s first Bishop. In 1956:1st April Bishop Stella blessed the new Church of Our Lady of Arabia. In 1957:27th Jan, Kuwait City – The Cathedral’s foundation stone was laid by Bishop Stella. In 1961:16th March, Bishop Stella celebrated the first Mass after blessing the Holy Family Cathedral. In 1969:27th March, four sisters of the Apostolic Carmel from India landed in Kuwait at the invitation of Indian expatriates and Msgr. Sanmiguel. In 1969 8th April, the Carmel School made its debut with just four students on the roll, in a small rented apartment at Shamiyeh. In 1982:15th Jan, Msgr. Francis George Micallef, ocd, Kuwait’s third Catholic Bishop Take charge of the Vicariate, when Bishop Victor Sanmiguel retired at the age of 78. In 2002:April, the Salesians of Don Bosco started the Indian English Academy School under the administrative guidance of Salesian Society. In 2005:2nd Sept.Msgr.Camillo Ballin, MCCJ was consecrated Bishop in the Holy Family Cathedral by his eminence Crescengio Cardinal Sepe and was installed as the 4th Vicar Apostolic of Kuwait. In 1974: January, Salmiya Church the present premises of the Chapel was secured. In 2006: 28th July following a decree by His Lordship, Bishop Camillo Ballin,MCCJ, Vicar Apostolic of Kuwait changed the name of the Holy Redeemer Chapel to “The Church of St.Therese of Child Jesus”. It was canonically erected into parish (Canon # 515). Rev.Fr.Berchmans Aruldoss, ocd, was appointed as the first Parish Priest, and Rev.Fr.Thomas Vadekadam, ocd, as Assistant Parish Priest. In 2008: 3rd of August, the Church was entrusted to the Salesians of Don Bosco and Rev.Fr.Tony D’Souza, SDB was appointed as its 2nd Parish Priest. As part two, Rev.Fr.Tony, assessed the present moment by SWOT Analysis (Strengths & Weaknesses). History has shown us, that during times of persecution, the Catholic Church has greatly manifested its Spirituality, Vitality and Religious fervor, but other, more peaceful times, it has stagnated into a complacent routine, lacking all Vitality! We need to ask ourselves; Are we, as the Church in Kuwait, energized and invigorated, or are we heading into doldrums of complacency or even indiffence! Sense of Complacency, a feeling that we have nothing more to accomplish! In the mission entrusted to His disciples, Jesus urges us; “As you go, make this proclamation: the kingdom of heaven is at hand” Mathew 10:7 This is our mission: This is our awakening call; this is our Apostolate: The apostolate of the laity, Heralded by Vatican II, and encouraged by recent Popes! Vatican II says, Church as “People of God” What is lay Apostolate? It is the responsibility of Christians, to be true followers of Christ, Sharing in His mission of teacher, priest and king; Teaching, Sanctifying and ruling in His name. What we now need is an individual and collective spirit of unity in evangelization, so that our Church community grows, both in Spirituality, size and stature. The second Vatican council widened the doors of the Church for a greater participation of laity. When it defined the Church as, “The people of God”. Availing ourselves of this invitation, we, the Church in Kuwait should strive for a more vibrant, active and dynamic apostolate of the laity. Vocation to the Apostolate of the laity Canon law 759 talks about lay people rights. ‘The lay members of Christ’s faithful, by reason of their Baptism and Confirmation, are witnesses to the Good News of the Gospel, by their words and by the example of their Christian Life.’ In the Church there is a diversity of ministries, yet, oneness of mission: Make Christ known and loved. He explained further the hierarchy in the Church; each according to his or her own calling: Men and women working together for the greater glory of God’s kingdom. The Holy Spirit is at work, at all times and with all people, in this apostolate of the laity; so we need to pray for a discernment of our role in the Church. Make Christ known is our mission. He quoted 1 Cor.chapter 12 Ver.6 &7. Says, there are different workings but the same Lord; 6 there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. The Success of Every Apostolate Depends on the Person’s Union with Christ, This is nourished by: • Meditation on the word of god; • Participation in sacred liturgy; • A prayerful life; • And acts of faith, • Hope and Charity. The perfect example of lay apostolate is the Blessed Virgin Mary, The Queen of the Apostles. All should venerate her and commend their life and apostolate to her care. Objectives of the Apostolate of the Laity: THE TWO-FOLD MISSION OF THE CHURCH 1. TO BRING TO ALL, THE MESSAGE AND GRACE OF CHRIST. 2. TO EFFECTIVELY UTILIZE AND PERFECT THE TEMPORAL ORDER WITH THE GOSPEL. This apostolate begins with the individual and that individual is you. Our words and deeds are most effective in bringing the message and grace of Christ to all. Our good example of holiness will pave the way for people, Christians and non-Christians alike, to want to follow Jesus, our leader; Whose greatest command is: “love god; and love one another, as I have loved you.” The various fields of the Apostolate: An active involvement in Church activities in any role, big or small is the calling of the laity. Above all, every Christians is called to be a witness of Christ Jesus. There are many who can only hear the Gospel, through the words, the deeds, and the life of the laity around them. The laity may engage in this apostolate as individuals or in association reaching out to people by public worship and prayer; by charitable acts of kindness; by penance and good works or by carrying their crosses, without complaint. Individual apostolate is essential where freedom is curtailed and the laity stand for priests, even to the extend of risking their lives. Individual apostolate is especially needed where Catholics are few and scattered. Catholics associations strive for improvement in all areas of their activities: Sanctifications of its members: Evangelization and Sanctification of others. Commitment to charitable service. Working as an organic body, in a spirit of love and unity. Expansion of its association with like minded people. This apostolate can attain maximum effectiveness through diversified and thorough formation under the guidance of the clergy. The lay person should learn how to perform the mission of Christ, by basing personal life on the teachings of the Christ. He should be sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. He should cultivate good human relations, being able to cooperate fraternally, with all people and cultures. He should strive to review and assess all things in the light of the faith. The Hierarchy and the laity of the Church: No Association can claim the name “Catholic”, unless the following terms and conditions are fulfilled: 1. Clear approach from Church authority. 2. Cooperation with the Church Hierarchy; the Pope, Bishops, Priests & Deacons. 3. Function under the direction and the mandate of the hierarchy. In mutual esteem, units and cooperation with the laity, the hierarchy of the Church of the Church (the Clergy) has its own role in this Apostolate. The role of the hierarchy in lay Apostolate: 1. Promote the Association especially involving the youth in various ministries. 2. Provide Spiritual guidance and principles. Nourish the spiritual life and apostolic attitude in Catholic Associations. 3. Support and direct the conduct of large apostolate. 4. Assign pastoral & other duties to the members to the laity who meet the requirements. 5. Teach and authentically interpret moral principles for institutions in the temporal order. 6. Promote cooperation and coordination among various lay associations. 7. Educate and train volunteers. 8. Provides aids in formation. “All focused on Sacred Scriptures and Catholic Doctrine”. We are living in the hour of laity; an earnest Request! The Catholic Church entreats all laity to answer promptly and gladly, the invitation of Christ and the promptings of the Holy Spirit. To cooperate with everyone, to promote whatever is true, whatever is just and whatever is Holy and Lovable. Group Discussions: I. Workshop Questionnaire: for Talk-1: Catholic Church history in lay perspective of unity. 1. The history of the Church shows us the many persecutions faced by the followers of Christ, in union with Him. a. What have the persecutions suffered by the Church, done to its growth and unity? b. What was the source of strength of early Christians who stood united and firm in faith during these persecutions? c. Do you find any type of persecution being suffered by the Universal Church, today? d. How do you rate “sufferings” in your life? How are they useful in strengthening and uniting the Church? e. Are you ready to accept any persecution or suffering for the growth and unity of the Church of Kuwait? If yes, what sufferings would you like to offer to the Lord for the Unity of the Church in Kuwait? 2. There are many occasions, in the History of the Church, when the Laity has contributed with extra-ordinary courage and displayed their unshaken faith. a. Who is the Saint who has attracted you the most, in faithfully carrying out the task entrusted to him or her, and why? b. What are the qualities that differentiate this particular Saint from others? c. What qualities would you like to emulate/copy from the life of this Saint? 3. We have seen how false teachings came into the United Church and how they caused disunity and disharmony. a. What is your view on the teachings of the Catholic Church on faith and morals? How do these teachings keep the faithful united? b. How could you get access to the official teachings of the Catholic Church and what initiatives would you take to become well-versed with these teachings? c. Have you encountered any type of false teachings circulating among believers in the Church of Kuwait? If so, what are these false teachings that are creeping in and affecting the unity of the Catholic Church? d. In your opinion, what are the reasons, that some of the faithful deviate from the True Faith and Teachings of the Church? e. How can you, as a believer and true disciple, correct someone who is misguided by false teachings? 4. The Church is the Body of Christ and we are all members of that same Body. a. As members of the Body of Christ, where does the particular community you belong to, stand today? Is there any scope for improvement in the relationship between communities? b. As a believer and faithful follower of Christ, what would be your advice to your community to foster the unity of the Church in Kuwait? c. What are the steps, currently being taken in your community to ensure unity within the community itself? 5. Over the years, Liturgical Services in different Rites have been sanctioned by the Church. a. Are you familiar with the different Rites in the Catholic Church? b. How do they enrich the Church and contribute towards the “one flock, one Shepherd” understanding the Church? II. Workshop Questionnaire: Talk-2: The Bible of the Catholic Church Talk-3: Unity in Diversity, One Catholic Church, Many Rites, Rites & Rights. 1. How many Bible versions are there? Why is it important for us to know and pray the Bible of the Catholic Church? What is special about this Catholic Bible? Do we have the Holy Bible in our homes and how do we use it? 2. Give three suggestions to know the Holy Bible better. 3. Outside the Church, many denominations use the Bible and some Catholics go to them. Why? 4. Can there be real “Unity in diversity”? When Latin was the language of worship in the Catholic Church there was more unity. Discuss. 5. How many Rites are there in the Catholic Church? What is the history of the Rites and how do the Rites foster are Faith and promote unity among Catholics? III. Workshop Questionnaire: Talk-5: Our method of evangelization in the Vicariate 1. How important is unity for Evangelization? Is the image of the Christian Community in Kuwait reflecting the “Unity” of Apostolic times? List some of the sensitive issues you think, that distort the unity of the Church in Kuwait. 2. The Church in Kuwait is called to be an “Evangelized and Evangelizing People of God!” What percentage of Catholics in Kuwait, experience a sense of belonging and are actively involved in the Apostolic Vicariate / Parish community? How can this sense of belonging and involvement be fostered among the Catholics even more? 3. How could the leadership and spiritual animation provided by the Bishop and the clergy support the faith and life of Catholics who stray away from the Church to meet Jesus Christ elsewhere? What should be our attitude towards people of the different Christian denominations/sects and other Religions? 4. What does Jesus mean when he says: “You are the light of the world”, salt of the earth”, and “yeast in the dough”. How could we Catholics respond to this calling and become “Evangelizers” in the context of the Islamic State of Kuwait? Discuss some methods of proclaiming Christ, such as a “Dialogue” of friendly relationships, charitable assistance and common social service activities. 5. Kindly suggest FIVE practical lines of action (resolutions) that will promote qualitative change within our Catholic Community to grow in the Unity that Jesus prayed for? We had Holy High Mass with our beloved Bishop on 6th Sept 2008: The liturgies were very apt and had deep meaning towards the Unity Congress Theme! The 1st Reading 1 Cor.12:12-20, 27 Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 23) 2nd Reading: Colossians 3:12-15 Gospel John 6:51:58 (Jesus the Bread of Life) The Homily was given by our Bishop really inspired me the most. Why? The reason being, it had clarity and coherence with all the readings! Snapshot of the Homily: From the 1st reading our Bishop explained “Gap Analysis” from what we would like to be (ideal) to the actual (reality). He stressed that we need to first accept our difference! Then we move on to achieving oneness in “Christ’s body and each one is a part of it”. That we are not an aggregate of different rites or different linguistic and cultural groups. We form one body with Christ as its head. From the 2nd reading, he explained; only when we discover we are sinners and then able to forgive one another whenever any of you has a complaint against someone else. The process of cycle is that first we discover we are sinners, forgive others and then receive grace from God, to forgive us. From the Gospel reading he made two points as TWO LEVELS: The first level is to stimulate and get stimulated through Eucharistic celebrations. Not only to execute 630 laws as in Old Testament. God wants his people to communicate. The new law is Jesus Christ himself through him God the father is in us. The “Communion” realized through Jesus Christ! The second level is How to have Jesus Christ? Whenever we eat & drink. (Eucharistic is not an obligation!) Our Bishop has encourages us to read this factor in detail through his 2nd Pastoral Letter 2008-2009, “One Body in Christ” Eucharistic is a necessity! If we want to get stimulated! - To draw life from Jesus Christ - Eucharistic is sacrament which brings unity (To be more united) - Until our end of our life! To eat & drink the flesh of Jesus Christ. - Jesus Christ completely poured out on the cross for us. - This implies to know the cross and to bear our cross in our day to day life! Unity Congress was very informative, inspiring, and involved many think tank sessions of events. It is important to spend time in prayer, and seek the grace of the Holy Spirit that we learned so much about with our theme John 17:22 \"They may be one\". If you are not used to prayer, start with something simple each day, talk to your parish priest or prayerful people that you know. Seek; the Sacraments - through our Church we have access to the Power that Christ teaches to the Apostles. In particular, I encourage you to regularly seek out the Eucharist, the means in which our Unity Congress Fellowship is held in Communion with Jesus Christ. You can also experience the power of the Holy Spirit through the mercy and compassion of forgiveness in the beautiful sacrament of Reconciliation. Seek your vocation and do not be afraid, for through this commitment we find life. Act; as the apostle you know you are - Pope Benedict XVI reminded us that our life is not governed by chance. Our existence is not random – it has been willed by God, blessed and given a purpose. Make use of your gifts and build the civilization of love starting with your family, friends and parish. \"Destiny is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for; it is a thing to be achieved.\" Let us pray for our mission in Kuwait to be achieved through our lady of Arabia. Our Lady of Arabia prays for our Unity. I look forward to continuing our friendship as we walk together as one body. Stay strong and keep close to the Lord! In Christ Francis E-mail : francisappoline@gmail.com Cellular # : 965-6203674 (M) http://www.unitycongress.giibo.com/testimonials.php http://www.cig.canon-europe.com/a?i=lolZLVDpp7 Password to access the online photo album: loveSeptember 12, 2008 01:27:16 AM
Hello, Unity congress is not an end itself. It is the New Beginning! Let us pray for our mission in Kuwait. Yesterday being the feast of Our Lady of Nativity, I wish you good health, peace, love, joy and laughter. Let us pray to Our Beloved Mother of Good Health. 1. Catholic Church history in Lay perspective of Unity, Mr.C V Joseph 2. The Bible of the Catholic Church, by Fr.Peter Madross 3. Unity in Diversity (Rites), by Fr.Peter Madross 4. Church Teaching on Laity, by by Fr.Peter Madross 5. Our method of Evangelization in the Vicariate, By Fr.Tony D\'Souza Unity Congress are very informative, and involved a think tank sessions of events. It is important to spend time in prayer, and seek the grace of the Holy Spirit that we learned so much about with our theme John 17:22 \"They may be one\". If you are not used to prayer, start with something simple each day, talk to your parish priest or prayerful people that you know. Seek; the Sacraments - through our Church we have access to the Power that Christ teaches to the Apostles. In particular, I encourage you to regularly seek out the Eucharist, the means in which our Unity Congress Fellowship is held in Communion with Jesus Christ. You can also experience the power of the Holy Spirit through the mercy and compassion of forgiveness in the beautiful sacrament of Reconciliation. Seek your vocation and do not be afraid, for through this commitment we find life. Act; as the apostle you know you are - Pope Benedict XVI reminded us that our life is not governed by chance. Our existence is not random – it has been willed by God, blessed and given a purpose. Make use of your gifts and build the civilization of love starting with your family, friends and parish. You have been invited to view my online photo album. You can access the album from the following URL: http://www.cig.canon-europe.com/a?i=lolZLVDpp7 Password to access the online photo album: love 05 Sep 2008 20:51:05, I wrote to my friends as our Bishop defined, What is a Unity Congress? It is an assembly of representatives of the laity of the Vicariate who will come together with their Bishop and clergy, for a period of time (three days) during which we shall reflect on the reality of our Catholic Church in Kuwait. We shall give-receive some teachings which could help us to understand our reality as \"People of God\" in a deeper way. Hopefully, we shall reach some conclusions for our mission in Kuwait . Unless the Lord built the house, they labor in vain who build it (Ps 127, 1). 1st Unity Congress in Vicarite Apostolic of Kuwait was held in Kuwait for the past three days. (September 4, 5 and 6, 2008). How is it? please write your feedback to me. I look forward to continuing our friendship as we walk together as one body. Stay strong and keep close to the Lord! In Christ Kind regards, Francis francisappoline@gmail.comSeptember 09, 2008 04:16:32 AM
As the Vicar Apostolic of Kuwait and as your Bishop, it is my duty and privilege to welcome you all to this august assembly for the Unity Congress which we begin today. You represent a pluralistic and migrant community and have come over here with much sacrifices. I appreciate your positive response to my invitation for the Congress. It shows your openness to the Holy Spirit and your readiness to listen to each other in communion with your Bishop. read more…