#552
Note: Non-Aussie readers might be helped by knowing that over the years, in the Aus Province 'Link' or newsletter, a mysterious character called 'Smithy' has commented on events around him. 'Smithy' obviously has a first cousin visitng Europe these days!
A COMUNIQUE FROM 'BARRAMUNDI'
(Delegate for the inhabitants spread around Atolls & Islands of the Pacific.)
To realise that this week brings us to the half-way mark of the Chapter is comforting. Within 4 or 5 weeks it may be possible to find oneself amongst young people in a more authentic Salesian setting than the rarified life of the Pisana. Hope springs eternal !
As the draft documents of each of the Commissions come before the Chapter in the Aula Magna, there is overpowering evidence of duplication and repetition. However, this suggests there is a thread that unites all contributors no matter what their origin or voiced point of view.
One can only hope that there are forthright members in each Commission ready to exercise radical editing skills.
Since next week is Holy Week and the time when we move into the process of discernment before casting votes for the new members of the General Council, there is a 'sotto voce' buzz around as informal enquiries are made about the prospective candidates. Has a bicycle accident compromised the candidacy of Fr Luc Van Looy for the role of Rector Major ? Has the hospitality shown to the Chapter members who toured Naples improved the prospects of Don Francesco Gallone as a candidate for Economer General ? Is Fr Joaquim D'Souza the leading contender for South Asia, The Indian Conference, East Asia or Oceania/Australia ?
Will Bellamine Fernando be a Bishop or a member of the General Council ?
Will the experience amongst displaced youth catapult Joseph Fernandez from the lively lanes and byways of youthful life to the halls of the Generalizia ? These and many such questions entertain the minds now turning to the process of discernment.
Let us all pray that there will be a powerful wind by which the Holy Spirit will clear the way for the most appropriate candidates to fill the places on the new General Council.
Living in HOPE,
"Barramundi"
(A delightful fish found in the tropical Pacific.)
<papworth_john@hotmail.com>
