just returned from Mozambique. Vast country, unlike in Malawi! Fourteen hours of driving over 1000 km away from Lilongwe to meet Sussundenga at night and additional four hours to finally reach the coast of Beira on the Indian Ocean. It's long! Fortunately the roads are good, except for a few sections under repair.
We are five representatives from Malawi to attend a preparatory meeting of the Chapter of our Missionary Society to be held in May next year in Rome. I attend the meeting as secretary. We barely had time to arrive at the scene that we learn the sad news.
- " Father Louis Blondel was murdered in his home that night by thieves . "
At, December 15, 2009 Father Louis
lived in Diepsloot, a township of 300,000 inhabitants, in the Diocese of Pretoria. There was recently when he lived in South Africa since 22 years already. The news was a shock to all of us who have known in recent years when it was our Provincial. When did it happen? On the night of December 6 to 7. That day on the roads of Mozambique, I thought of Annie and the 20th anniversary of the tragedy at the Polytechnique de Montréal.
that day, one more victim
Five young thieves in the night
A bullet to the heart by a thief
Guns are freely available in South Africa. Is it surprising that on average 50 people are murdered every day in this country? And our leaders say that Canadians are questioning the law on control of firearms due to pressure from pro-gun lobbyists!
long will this hatred?
long will this rage?
Until when this tragedy?
My recent letter from Malawi has generated some feedback including that of Françoise David. You can read his commentary on his web page; http://www.francoisedavid.com/2009/12/6-decembre-se-souvenir-et-agir/
But there were many other actions. My friend Bernadette Pelletier was instrumental to allow reading the poem at a concert. My other friend Nadine Abboud La Tuque used this text in a school activity. Many of my confreres have written a word of encouragement. Many others have increased their recipients by sending a copy by email to their knowledge. Thank you. This small magical rapid communication via the Internet that allows us, but even partially, to be together, to be closer, more caring.
That day, we were also united in a common cause, a prayer of forgiveness.
But there is one who destroys hatred
This one did not resist his executioners
He alone has opened the path of forgiveness in depth
Here at Chez, we welcome this week a small group of adults who wish to return to the sacraments . Our catechist, Mr Chagwa, illustrated his teaching by using a small design that I find amazing.
John the Baptist opens with all his might and fists clenched.
He works tirelessly.
Once opened, the hands no longer closed.
Fists, Chagwa to say, represents our hearts. Thanks to his tenacity, John the Baptist open our hearts to welcome the One who comes.
By thy birth, Jesus, born a Light of Hope
by your Word, Jesus opens the way to Faith
By your cross, Jesus, you show us love by abolishing the vengeful hatred
Christmas is coming. Get Ready! Open our hearts to the mystery.
That day is close
Closer still is the Presence of God Human
More intimate than ourselves is the one who wants to be reborn in our hearts
