The Torch - Newman Centre

16 downloads 228 Views 3MB Size Report
Oct 12, 2017 - Pope and the CEO is a fast-moving tale that makes for a very absorbing read ..... God will purify that de
The Torch Newman Centre Catholic Mission Newsletter

Volume 2

Toronto, Fall 2017

Issue 1

Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, seen between Cardinal Collins and Fr. Peter Turrone, visited us in May and met with students and staff to learn about the mission of the Newman Centre at the university. He was in Toronto to deliver the keynote address - Conscience Rights within a Faith Context at the Canadian Catholic Bioethics Institute conference at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica. Watch or read his speech here: http://bit.ly/2qNP7r6

www.newmantoronto.com

NEWMAN CENTRE CONTACT LIST STAFF

COMMITTEES

GROUPS

Fr. Peter Turrone, Pastor & Executive Director [email protected] Erin Kinsella, Associate Director of Campus Outreach [email protected] Alexandra Whittle, Program and Volunteer Coordinator [email protected] Patrick Douglas, Director of Human Resources and Operations [email protected] Anne Skrepichuk, Administrative Assistant [email protected] Maria Da Silva, Communications Coordinator [email protected] Christina Labriola, 11 am Sunday Mass Music Ministry [email protected] Charlie Min, 7 pm Sunday Mass Music Ministry [email protected] Samantha Koon, Development Officer [email protected]

STRATEGIC PASTORAL ADVISORY COUNCIL Fr. Peter (see Staff)

BIOETHICS STUDENTS CLUB (BEST) Roman, [email protected]

FINANCE COUNCIL Patrick (see Staff)

CATHOLIC DOCTOR'S GUILD Renata, [email protected] Fok-Han, [email protected] Nisha, [email protected]

STUDENT CAMPUS MINISTERS

LITURGY COMMITTEE Fr. Peter (see Staff) NEWMAN FOUNDATION Fr. Peter (see Staff)

CATHOLIC TEACHER'S GUILD Barry, [email protected]

VOLUNTEER SCREENING Alexandra (See Staff)

COFFEE MINISTRY (After Sunday morning Mass) Diane, [email protected]

LITURGICAL MINISTRIES

COUNTERPOINT Elisa, [email protected]

ALTAR SERVERS Rogelio, [email protected]

COURAGE Fr. Kevin, [email protected]

EXTRAORDINARY EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS Fr. Peter (see Staff)

GENESIS: FAITH & SCEINCE FORUM Darren, [email protected]

Lisa Caballero Jose Mendez Campos Sarah Hanna Sasha Hellwig Alexis Motschall Nikita Roy Krishna Santhakumar Arnel Vicente

SACRISTANS Julie, [email protected]

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMS

SOCIAL OUTREACH MINISTRIES

Thomas, [email protected]

BAPTISMAL PREPARATION Fr. Peter (see Staff)

OUT OF THE COLD Mary, [email protected]

CATHOLIC INITIATION PROGRAM (RCIA) and CONFIRMATION Lenita, [email protected]

ST. FRANCIS TABLE Anne, [email protected]

U of T CHINESE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY Lyndon, [email protected]

CHILDREN’S LITURGY Alexandra (See Staff) FIRST COMMUNION/RECONCILIATION Lenita, [email protected]

THE TORCH

LECTORS Joan, [email protected] LAY PASTORAL VISITORS Anne (see Staff)

NEWMAN CATHOLIC STUDENTS CLUB Michelle, [email protected] NEWMAN YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY Brianna, [email protected] ST. THOMAS MORE LAWYERS’ GUILD

STREET PATROL Michelle, [email protected]

U of T STUDENTS FOR LIFE Blaise, [email protected] YCAT, Young Catholic Association of Teachers Garrett, [email protected]

For Mass times, visiting hours and social media links, please see page 19

-2-

YTOL YOUNG ADULT TEAM Damian, [email protected]

FALL 2017

A MESSAGE FROM THE PASTOR Greetings in the Lord: During the month of July, I was blessed to be able to spend some time fishing with my nephew and sister in Nova Scotia. Our first stop included a visit to Peggy's Cove Lighthouse. According to the Parks Canada website, the two main purposes of a lighthouse are to serve as a navigational aid and to warn boats of dangerous areas. It is like a traffic sign on the sea. This is a good analogy for our mission here at the university. In his 2005 pre-conclave homily, the then-Cardinal Ratzinger warned about the “dictatorship of relativism”. Relativism insists that morality, cultures, and beliefs are all of equal value, meaning, and worth. He warned that "we are moving toward a dictatorship of relativism which does not recognize anything as for certain and which has as its highest goal one’s own ego and one’s own desires." Importantly, this does not mean that we are not to respect others and look for values we share in common. To think and act as such would be contrary to our Catholic faith. Nonetheless, this ideology is becoming increasingly pervasive in our university culture and has even confused and influenced some Catholics. Many students have had not only their faith challenged, but also simple assertions based on decades of universitydriven scientific studies regarding basic human nature. Moreover, there have been many times when people of faith have asked me the Church’s teaching on faith and morals, as if the formulation of 2000 years of biblical and magisterial tradition which traces back to the apostles, were only an "opinion".

Many religious and non-religious people are increasingly finding ourselves treated with derision and isolated from the public square if they refuse to marry the spirit of the age. However, there are many reasons for hope. We are God's beloved children and ambassadors (cf. 2Cor 5:20). Our mission is similar to that of the lighthouse. We are called to be a navigational aid to those who are unsatisfied with the ephemeral nature of our culture which never delivers on its endless claims to bring true happiness to the human person. Jesus Christ is the “way, the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6). Only He can fulfill the deepest longings of the human heart. Furthermore, the solid intellectual formation we provide through our Faith and Reason Lecture Series and various group encounters are always illuminated by the truths of our Catholic faith through charitable discourse with those who are open to dialogue. We have been given the help of the Holy Spirit to discern what is both good and also threatening to the dignity of the human person and the flourishing of human society. May this upcoming academic year’s pastoral plan be constantly motivated by a deep love for God through an ever deepening prayer life and love of neighbour through selfless service to the community. As we allow the Lord Jesus to grow within us, we, in turn, like a lighthouse, will be able to cast His loving light onto everyone we meet. God bless, Fr Peter

LEAD KINDLY LIGHT AWARD Many years ago, the Lead Kindly Light Award was offered every year to volunteers who made outstanding contributions to the Newman Centre. The Lead Kindly Light Award has now been re-established in honour of our dear friends Nancy Sidle and Dr. John Kennedy, whose legacy of love and service has left an indelible mark on the Newman community. Details on nomination process coming soon. THE TORCH

-3-

FALL 2017

WELCOME OUR 2017-18 STUDENT CAMPUS MINISTERS My name is Lisa Caballero. This fall, I am excited to begin my third year in the Master of Divinity program at Regis College. I am also excited to have the opportunity to serve a fourth year as a Student Campus Minister here at the Newman Centre.

My name is Sarah Hanna. After graduating with an Honours Bachelor of Science, I am starting a Master of Teaching program with a focus in biology and chemistry. Although I have always believed in God’s presence in my life, I failed to recognize my need for Him growing up. Through God’s grace, I made the decision to follow Christ without reservation during the third year of my Bachelor’s degree.

From the different ministry and mission experiences that I was blessed to be a part of, I have experienced first hand the joy that comes when the faith is intentionally shared with others. I was also able to witness the great things that God can do in my own life and in the lives of those that He called me to serve. To be an SCM is another opportunity for me to give my complete "YES!" to God to what I feel He has called me to for the year.

This year, I want to show gratitude for the gift of my Catholic faith by sharing it with others as a Student Campus Minister. In my spare time I enjoy reading, singing, and playing sports. I am excited for the opportunities to grow in love of God and neighbour and look forward to experiencing true fellowship in Christ at the Newman Centre.

In this year, I hope to deepen my prayer life and to grow in my personal relationship with Jesus so that I can bring others closer to Him. I desire to grow in holiness and live out my call to mission. God bless!

My name is Sasha Hellwig and I'm originally from Los Angeles, California. This fall, I will be starting my second year at University of Toronto studying Teaching, with a focus on Christianity and Culture and History.

My name is José Campos and I come from Victoria, British Columbia. I completed my undergraduate degree in biochemistry at the University of Victoria.

By the grace of God, I became Catholic two years ago and was received into full communion with the Church this past Easter. During my first year at U of T, I came to Newman for RCIA classes, daily Mass, Tuesday night Adoration and various social events. Newman served as a place where I could grow deeper in my faith and create lasting Christ-centered relationships.

I am now a third year PhD student in biological chemistry in the Nitz group at the University of Toronto. Being blessed to have been born and raised in a strong Catholic home, I strive to live out my faith with conviction and always put Christ at the centre of my life. I found out about Newman through Erin Kinsella who was my NET leader way back in 2008-2009 when I was in grade 12 at St. Andrew’s Regional Catholic School. Serving God while attending school? How could I not say ‘yes!’ God is good! THE TORCH

In my free time I enjoy reading, knitting, playing soccer, and dancing (very badly)! I look forward to ministering to everyone in the Newman community and to be able to bring the joy of Christ to U of T over this next year! -4-

FALL 2017

WELCOME OUR 2017-18 STUDENT CAMPUS MINISTERS My name is Alexis Motschall and I am studying English in my second year at the University of Toronto. I found the Newman Centre when I visited U of T in high school and feel so blessed to have encountered such a warm and faithful community. I have experienced Christ’s kindness and joy through so many wonderful faces here and I will keep these experiences in my heart and mind as I serve as a Student Campus Minister. I am so excited to grow in my faith and encourage others in their spiritual journeys. God Bless! My name is Nikita Roy. I’m going to be entering my final year at the University of Toronto Scarborough with a major in Health Studies and a minor in Biology and Applied Statistics. At the same time, I will be pursuing a certification in Data Science at Harvard University. I’m originally from India and was born and raised in Bahrain before coming to Toronto for my undergrad. I’ve been fortunate to have a community that helped me grow in my faith when I came to Toronto and I am excited to become a Student Campus Minister where I hope to be able to help others in their own faith journeys. I look forward to get to know all of you during my time here at Newman.

My name is Krishna Joseph Vaz Santhakumar and this coming school year will be my second year in studying Philosophy. I was born and raised in Canada, primarily in the suburbs of Toronto. It was only recently, the past Easter of 2017, that I became a Catholic (thanks be to God!). I stumbled upon Newman during my first year out of curiosity and with more inquiry into the religion I found it absolutely compelling. With all the time and effort the Newman staff and students have invested in me, I feel obliged to give back and help serve! Things I enjoy include movies, reading, spending time with friends and family, and evangelizing (it becomes fun the more you do it). I am really looking forward to being part of the Newman community! My name is Arnel Vicente, but you may all call me AJ (Apple Juice if you forget). I'm a returning SCM. I am 25 years old and will be doing my Master of Divinity at Regis College. In my free time I really enjoy volleyball, board games and bubble tea. I look forward to coming back and ministering to everyone in the Newman community this upcoming year!

GENESIS: FAITH AND SCIENCE FORUM The Genesis: Faith and Science Forum is a group for students and professionals who are interested in the relationship between the Catholic faith and science, and questions regarding their intersection. The group provides an environment for the discussion of these questions, for the spiritual and intellectual formation of Catholic scientists, and for fostering fellowship between its members. All are welcome to join - Catholic and non-Catholic, scientist and non-scientist alike. Please contact Darren at [email protected] for details. THE TORCH

-5-

FALL 2017

FAITH AND REASON LECTURE SERIES The Newman Centre presents an outstanding line-up of speakers for our 2017-2018 Faith and Reason lecture season and two remarkable spiritual retreats. All our lectures are free. Retreats are $30 per person.

Newman and the Great Apostasia - Edward Short, Author of "Newman and His Family” Thursday, October 12, 2017 | 7 PM | Newman Centre

The Pope and the CEO - Andreas Widmer, Entrepreneur, academic and philanthropist Thursday, November 9, 2017 | 8 AM | Rotman School of Management

The Catholic Perspective on Evolution - Fr. Thomas Davenport OP, Scientist, co-author "Thomistic Evolution" Thursday, January 25, 2018 | 7 PM | Newman Centre

The Role of Christianity in the Development of Modern Science - Stacy A. Trasancos, Catholic writer, scientist, editor and teacher

Thursday, March 8, 2018 | 7 PM | Newman Centre

R E T R E A T S THE TORCH

LENTEN RETREAT with Cardinal Gérald Lacroix - Archbishop of Quebec and Primate of Canada Have I responded to the call to be a missionary? Saturday, February 24, 2018 | 9 AM - 3 PM | Newman Centre EASTER RETREAT with Fr. Jacques Philippe - World-renowned spiritual director and author Living the Beatitudes Saturday, April 14, 2018 | 9 AM - 3 PM | Newman Centre -6-

FALL 2017

BOOK REVIEW: THE POPE AND THE CEO In anticipation of his visit to the University of Toronto this fall, I recently read Andreas Widmer’s book, The Pope and the CEO. Widmer has led a fascinating life, serving in the Swiss Guards as a young man, then moving on to a remarkable career as an entrepreneur, manager, and business leader. His book is unique in that it is simultaneously an autobiography, a leadership manual for managers, and a spiritual guide for living a life of faith amid the rough-and-tumble of the highstakes world of business.

What makes this book stand out are Widmer’s marvelous insights into precisely how ordinary laypeople can “Go and bring Christ into the world!” These insights are so relevant for those of us committed to meeting the countercultural challenge of living our faith amid an increasingly secular society. Using his own experiences as concrete examples of successes and failures, Widmer explains the essential, intertwining roles of prayer, moral fortitude, balance, and detachment in our capacity to work in the spirit of Christ.

Widmer’s first job was with the Swiss Guards, the military group that has guarded popes since 1506. Widmer joined in 1986, during the papacy of St. John Paul II. The book is full of terrific anecdotes from his service experience. Three years later, Widmer fell in love with his future wife, Michelle, an American woman then studying in Rome. He promptly left the Guards and emigrated to the US to marry her. In 1991, he joined FTP Software, a startup company in the, then, nascent digital services industry. This move kicked off a twenty-year roller-coaster ride of rags-toriches-to-rags-to-riches experiences. As a biography of a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, The Pope and the CEO is a fast-moving tale that makes for a very absorbing read. By now, the white-knuckled chronicles of a digital age pioneer is a genre well-known to audiences of all kinds. What sets this story apart is

Widmer’s thoughtful reflections on the integration of faith, professional life and lessons learned from St. John Paul II.

The Pope and the CEO - Business Leadership Breakfast and Talk November 9, 2017 See back cover for details [ Michael Ryall is an Associate Professor of Strategy and Economics at Rotman School of Management. His primary research interest is the formal theoretical foundations of business strategy. This is a small but rapidly growing research area that uses mathematical models to analyze issues relating to value appropriation under competition. His research has been published in the Academy of Management Review, Management Science and The B.E. Journal of Theoretical Economics, among others. ]

Bishop Robert Barron recently described (http:// wordonfireshow.com/episode78/) St. John Paul II as a once-in-every-500-years Church leader. George Weigel (St. John Paul II’s biographer) remarks, in his foreword to The Pope and the CEO, that this pope, “touched human lives across a remarkable spectrum of humanity during his twenty-six and a half years as Bishop of Rome.” Widmer was one such life. He recalls the pope’s parting admonition as he was preparing to leave the Guards: “Go and bring Christ into the world!” Deeply moved, Widmer says, “The next day I completed my active service in the Guards, and left to do what the pope asked me to do.” THE TORCH

Ultimately, says Widmer, St. John Paul II helped him understand that all areas of life can be a foretaste of heaven. Another Catholic saint, St. Josemaria Escriva (who was personally known by St. John Paul II), once said, “It is in the simplicity of your ordinary work, in the monotonous details of each day, that you have to find the secret, which is hidden from so many, of something great and new: Love.” Love of God leads to self-sacrifice in the service of those around you. This makes your work sanctifying, both for you and others. As depicted in Widmer’s book, a happy by-product of such love is the fostering of excellent business leadership skills.

-7-

FALL 2017

MEMORIES OF NEWMAN AN INTERVIEW WITH

never really make an honest judgment about the genuineness of a vocational call without giving it the old 'college try.' I hesitated about the call to priesthood for many years before I finally decided to give it a shot. I applied to the seminary and initially gave myself four months to decide whether I would continue or not. As it turned out, upon settling in at the seminary, I realized almost immediately that this was for me; but it had taken me months to take that first step and I was kicking myself for not having done it earlier.

FR. RYAN ALEMÃO When and how did you get involved with the Newman Centre?

In my second year of undergraduate studies, I discovered the Newman Centre while walking to Robarts library from Museum station. I passed it daily until I decided to attend the evening Ash Wednesday Mass. That evening I heard about the Student Campus Minister program. Having been very involved in my parish prior to university, I was eager to get involved at Newman. I applied to become a SCM and was accepted for the 2005-06 academic year.

Fr. Ryan Alemão was ordained to the priesthood on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica on the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima.

How did the Newman Centre influence your life? The Newman Centre was the birthplace of my 'adult' faith life. Having moved away from home to be on team, it fostered my faith life in an independent grown -up way. My family always prayed together, but at Newman I learned to pray on my own initiative. Living in community also helped me mature and learn to be less self-centered. Coming from a big family, I was already somewhat aware of selflessness, but the comfort of family can sometimes hinder that growth in selflessness. We expect family to cut us some slack, from time to time. It's harder to do that in community, especially in the first few months when everybody is new to community life. What is your advice for those discerning their vocation? No matter what vocation one may feel called to, it always appears difficult or frightening at first. There's usually trepidation associated with a nascent call, whether that's the nervousness linked with asking someone on a date or going for a vocational discernment program/weekend. My advice would be: don't be afraid; take the plunge! We have the amazing ability to build castles in the air. However, we can THE TORCH

-8-

FALL 2017

NEWMAN’S PILGRIMAGE TO ITALY The moment I heard that our pastor, Fr. Peter Turrone, was planning to lead a pilgrimage to spiritually significant sites in Italy, I was in, no questions asked. My heart leapt at the chance to visit my spiritual homeland – a country so rich in natural beauty, ancient history, cultural and artistic treasures, home to so many shining witnesses of God’s love (from St. Francis of Assisi to St. Catherine of Sienna), and the heart of Mother Church on earth. This was an opportunity not to be missed. From May 22 to June 1, 2017, our group of seventeen was immersed in abundant graces: enjoying fine weather, delicious food, sacred surroundings, spiritual nourishment, and the accompaniment and inspiration of the saints along our journey. We spent our first three days in Rome, the Eternal City, overwhelmed by the way that Ancient, Christian, and Modern Rome all exist alongside one another in layers of history, civilization, art, culture, and faith. We then began our journey south, stopping at the hill of Montecassino, where St. Benedict founded Western monasticism itself. We visited San Giovanni Rotondo, paying homage to the great Franciscan saint and mystic Padre Pio in the places where he lived, worked, and prayed. We ascended another mountain to visit the shrine to St. Michael the archangel at Monte Sant’Angelo. North then to medieval Lanciano, the site of a Eucharistic miracle, and further along the coast until we reached Umbria, with its castles and churches nestled among fertile hills and rows of olive trees. We found ourselves in Assisi, the home of St. Francis, whose spirit seems to permeate the entire place. The wind sighing in the trees, the light filtering through green leaves, swallows circling, white-pink stone buildings, the singing of birds, the scents of roses and oleander: all around was an atmosphere of such peace and beauty. Our next stop was grand medieval Sienna, the home of St. Catherine, Doctor of the Church, so passionate and so in love with God.

moments took place in the context of worship: a private Mass on the feast of the Ascension at the tomb of St. Peter; a chance experience of charismatic Eucharistic Adoration; kneeling in prayer at the tombs of the great saints, Francis, Clare, John Paul II, Padre Pio, Benedict and Scholastica; Vespers with the Clarissian nuns in Assisi; reciting a Rosary as we drove through the green and gold countryside. Pope Francis, during our audience in St. Peter’s Square, assured us that, just as Jesus accompanied the disciples along the road to Emmaus, just as surely does He walk beside us in our own journey, always: “Sempre!” True words of comfort for us all as pilgrims in this life. Christina Labriola is a ThD Candidate at Regis College, Toronto School of Theology, working on a thesis on the theology and spirituality of music. She is the Music Ministry Director for the 11 am Mass at the Newman Centre.

Like any true pilgrimage, the exterior journey mirrored the interior, as prayer and the reception of the Blessed Sacrament at Mass marked our way. We were blessed to be able to pray together and celebrate Mass each day in a new and holy place. Many of the most profound THE TORCH

-9-

FALL 2017

MARCH FOR LIFE 2017 THE SACREDNESS OF LIFE

countries was a big joy for me. It felt great to know that we all want to protect life and want to help those that are thinking about getting rid of a life. Some people might say that marching in Ottawa won’t help at all with this problem, but in fact, the day of the march was a terrific opportunity to share and promote all the concrete actions that are being done by religious, lay people, politicians, students and all those with good heart to protect life.

- Christian Silva As an international student, I had only heard a few things about the March for Life held in Ottawa every year. “It is amazing”, “You have to go” and things of that sort were what I got from my different Catholic (and some non-Catholic!) friends. However, after going to the March in a remarkable trip co-organized by the Newman Centre and St. Michael’s College, I could say that it is difficult to put into words the experience of being in Ottawa and standing with thousands of people to defend the most important value in this world: the sacredness of life. Our trip was filled with blessings from the beginning. It was great to grow in fellowship with many Newmanites, but also with staff and students from St. Michael’s College. We had the spiritual direction of Fr. Peter Turrone and the Sisters of Life; they led us in prayer, meditation and formation. They helped us to understand that our purpose was to share our love and mercy for life, and our spiritual tools were all the prayers that we had been offering several days before the March, as well as all the acts of kindness that we can have for people in difficult situations, to show them how important their lives are.

There were also a few people marching against March for Life, but I am confident that the love, mercy and prayers we have for them will have a significant impact to change minds, and more importantly, their hearts after this march. In the end, I will remember this march as a big celebration of the gift of life that God gives to all of us and that we are called to protect. I am grateful to God that I was able to be part of the march, and I know that all our good actions will be multiplied by Him.

Although we were from different backgrounds, we all shared the same joy and desire to go to Ottawa and “make noise” as Pope Francis said to the young Catholics. But not any noise. Not the noise that the world is used to. This is a noise that is peaceful, but causes noise for being a sign of contradiction, as our Lord Jesus Christ came to this world to cause noise. We were going to Ottawa to march in peace, and let Parliament know that we are thousands of people in Canada that care about life, and want to protect it from conception to its natural end. On May 11th, we were finally on Parliament Hill. Being there with people from all over Canada and even from other THE TORCH

Christian Silva was a Newman Student Campus Minister and is currently a University of St. Michael's College don doing his Masters in Healthcare Optimization at the University of Toronto.

- 10 -

FALL 2017

IT’S NOT ABOUT THE SANDWICH ! Street Patrol is an event run once monthly by the U of T Newman Catholic Students Club. It is an opportunity for anyone interested to join in preparing sandwiches and snacks in lunch bags, discussing homelessness, and delivering our sandwiches while engaging in meaningful conversation with those on the streets. Street Patrol for the 2016-2017 school year was a great success. We partnered with five other campus groups, had our largest turnout ever in November with 34 people, and between all eight sessions, gave out over 1250 sandwiches. But, like many of you who have discussed time and again at Street Patrol: it’s not about the sandwich. Stopping and taking the time out of your day, even just to ask someone their name, discuss school, the weather, or even politics, often makes the biggest impact. Some homeless beg 8-12 hours daily. It can be dehumanizing when no one stops to talk to them. Returning some of their hope in humanity, and being a symbol of God’s love to people going through hard times is our mission on Street Patrol. Oddly enough, however, it’s the stories shared with those who volunteer that teach us more than we can ever give back. Here’s just one example: I will not soon forget one lady I met at the last Street Patrol, since she looked hardly older than myself. She was shivering in the cold and standing outside the shelter. We had a friendly chat and I asked her if she wanted to look in our bag for anything she needed. It had some hats, gloves, toiletries and socks. She took a quick look and said, smiling, nonetheless, “Do you have any new lives in that bag? I could really use one of those”. And then she laughed. She thanked us greatly for the stuff, said she really appreciated it, and we carried on. Sadly, there was some truth to what she was hoping for, though she was trying to make light of a bad situation. It is always humbling to remember how little we can concretely do, but what a huge impact our little effort can make.

hungry, clothe the naked, and shelter the homeless. Whatsoever we do to the least of these, we do unto Jesus himself. If you’re not sure how to interact with homeless people, looking to grow in holiness, service, and spirit, or if you feel close to God’s call to help the poor, I’d highly encourage you to give Street Patrol a try. How you can get involved: 

Join us en route! Subscribe to the Newman email list and ‘Like’ our facebook page: “U of T Newman Catholic Students Club” where we will post our next event in September.



Email [email protected] to inquire about joining the NCSC’s Social Justice Subcommittee for the 2017-2018 year.



Street Patrol is always looking for donations of outerwear especially warm, black socks.

Michelle Donnelly is a third year PharmD student at the University of Toronto. Last year she held the position of Social Justice and Community Services Coordinator on the Newman Catholic Students Club. This year she was elected President of the NCSC.

We have been called, as in Matthew 25, to feed the THE TORCH

- 11 -

FALL 2017

CONSCIENCE RIGHTS IN ONTARIO or indirectly, in causing a patient’s death for reasons of conscience.

Bill 84 came into effect on May 10, 2017. It protects physicians and Nurse Practitioners who perform euthanasia “in good faith” from legal proceedings based on alleged negligence. However, it does not protect conscientious objectors from reprisals if they fail to provide timely, “effective” referrals to facilities or colleagues that induce death. Ontario’s Liberal majority blocked a conscience amendment to the text of Bill 84 that was strongly endorsed in two dozen oral presentations at committee hearings on March 23 and 30, and in more than 20,000 letters to Ontario MPPs. Then, despite vocal support from health professionals, Mr. Jeff Yurek’s proposed conscience legislation (Bill 129) was defeated on May 18, 2017. This means that the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario’s 2015 policy “Professional Obligations and Human Rights” has not been overruled by Ontario law. A court challenge to the policy was heard in Toronto June 13-15, 2017, but it will likely be years before the Supreme Court resolves the issue. In the meantime, physicians, nurse practitioners, pharmacists and their students face coercion when they cannot participate, either directly

Conscientious objectors should advise their managers and / or colleagues of their objection in advance, explore the patient’s suffering, and provide care unrelated to euthanasia. However, they cannot, for example, initiate the transfer of care, establish intravenous access, prepare or administer medication, refer or assess someone to facilitate euthanasia. The Canadian Catholic Bioethics Institute’s publication of March 2017 provides guidance on referrals, assessments and transfers in this context. Let’s pray that the courts’ decisions respect religious freedom, and that God gives health professionals and their students the grace to follow their consciences, formed in the light of Catholic teaching. (Click on hyperlinks in the online article on the Newman website to access reference material.) Helen McGee is a Registered Nurse in Ontario and a clinical leader with extensive experience caring for people affected by schizophrenia.

MENTORSHIP AT NEWMAN DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR FAITH AND HOW IT RELATES TO YOUR STUDIES OR THE DEVELOPMENT OF YOUR CAREER? The Newman Centre will be hosting bi-monthly speaker sessions on a variety of important topics as a part of the mentorship program for the year. There will be opportunities for open discussion and questions after sessions with the speakers as well. An Introduction Session about the Mentorship Program will be held on Thursday, November 2nd at 6 pm. One-on-one mentorship will begin in January 2018. If you are interested in participating in the program you may register via the links listed below. If you are a student seeking the guidance of a professional in your field: http://bit.ly/mentorshipnewman If you are a professional seeking to be a mentor for a student: http://bit.ly/mentoratnewman For more information on speakers sessions and being a mentor or mentee, please contact: Alexandra Whittle, Program and Volunteer Coordinator at [email protected] THE TORCH

- 12 -

FALL 2017

STAFF PROFILE AN INTERVIEW WITH

of God’s transforming love in such a way that they know their own goodness and dignity; that always leads to outreach in some way, and then it’s just a matter of gaining practical skills and confidence in knowing how to speak about Christ in a way that addresses the deepest desires of the human heart.

ERIN KINSELLA ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF CAMPUS OUTREACH NEWMAN CENTRE When did you join the Newman Centre?

What is your favourite quote from the teaching of Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman?

I joined the Newman team in June of 2013. What do you do at the Newman Centre? My official title is Associate Director of Campus Outreach, but what that really means is that I’m responsible for helping to fulfil our mission of helping students, university faculty and staff, parishioners and other community members to grow in their relationships with the Lord in order to draw others at U of T (and beyond!) to Christ.

Practically, this means I focus largely on leadership formation, discipleship and evangelization. I coordinate the Student Campus Ministry team, CCO Connect (our faith studies), front desk presence, our discipleship program, evangelization and outreach efforts on campus, retreats, orientation week activities, and other activities that fall under the mission of outreach.

I love the quote from Newman, “To live is to change, and to become perfect is to have changed often”. It echoes the fiat of Our Lady, and reminds me that I am not the author of my own holiness, but I am the gatekeeper, in a certain sense. My yes to Him necessarily brings continual conversion, and my call (as is everyone’s) is no less than Sainthood. That’s what I want, whether it’s bold or arrogant or anything else. God will purify that desire, and I know He desires to fulfil it, but I also know that it requires my cooperation. Words you live by: Words that I (try to) live by are from Pope Emeritus Benedict, and they always remind me that a life lived by default is not the calling of the Christian: "The world promises you comfort. But you were not made for comfort. You were made for greatness."

How does the Newman Centre inspire you? The Newman Centre inspires me because God leads: it is incredible to work in an environment where staff and volunteers are on the same page, and where we’re all looking to see how God is already at work so that we can follow His lead. In particular, I’m constantly inspired by the sense of love that exists here. It’s incredible to notice that it’s not often what students and other community members do that inspires others to find a home here, but it’s who they are and who they’re becoming in Christ that reveals love to others that they didn’t even know they were looking for. Fundamentally, my greatest hope is that those who are part of our community profoundly encounter the fire THE TORCH

- 13 -

FALL 2017

INTERNATIONAL MISSION TRIP TRULY, I TELL YOU - Sasha Hellwig Being off the grid with no internet or phone service for a week isn't too bad when you are able to serve the poor, be filled with so much joy and love, and fall deeper in love with Christ. For nine days at the beginning of May, I had the amazing opportunity to serve alongside brothers and sisters from the Missionaries of the Poor in Kingston, Jamaica. In society today, it is so easy to get caught up with technology, social media, material possessions, and so on, while forgetting some of the most important aspects of human life – connection, community, relationship, love, and most importantly, Christ. This trip allowed me to revaluate the current focus of my life, and discover what it means to me to be a Catholic. This trip was by no means a vacation, I’d say it was better than a vacation because I was doing the work of the Lord, learning, growing in my faith, all while having a good time. As Jesus told us, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me” (Matt 25:40). We are all called to serve the poor, the outcast, the unwanted and those who are not able to help themselves. The apostolic work of the Missionaries of the Poor, allows for people who are often forgotten in our society - the poor, crippled, elderly, intellectually challenged and sick - to live a life that is joyful, loving and Christcentered. Partaking in the brothers’ lifestyle completely changed my outlook on life. I never thought I would enjoy waking up at 5:30 every morning, or find so much joy in serving those who have nothing. Throughout the week, I quickly discovered the importance of having a strong prayer life. The brothers showed me what it truly means to live a Christcentered life and to be deeply in love with the Lord. As one of the brothers told me, “our work flows from

our prayer, our prayer is more important than the work we do, because without it we can do nothing.” THE TORCH

- 14 -

It is for this reason that the brothers have daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Rosary, meditation, and say the Liturgy of the Hours as a community every day. The very day was structured around Christ. Every moment of prayer was an opportunity to come together as a community with the brothers, and return to the community’s root—Christ. The other beautiful aspect of the brothers’ life is the Christ-centered communities they build at each one of the “centres”. The residents and brothers say prayers together every day, go to Mass together on Sunday and have Mass at the centre once a month. Although most of the residents have nothing and many are suffering in ways we cannot fathom, they find joy in life, and have so much love, which I think is only possible with a deep relationship with the Lord. Both the brothers’ and residents’ love and faith were contagious throughout the whole trip.

FALL 2017

INTERNATIONAL MISSION TRIP At the centres, the residents managed to always put a smile on my face and find a way to make me dance or sing. Each centre had its own vibe and community. You never knew what to expect for that day, whether it was dancing with Deloris at Lord’s Place, singing with Ashanti at Bethlehem, or painting nails at Jacob’s Well. I was challenged to do things I never envisioned myself doing—bathing, painting the same person’s nails ten times, preaching the Gospel, feeding, and much more. There were moments I doubted my abilities and there were moments that I was not expecting. But there were many moments where I truly saw the risen Christ in the eyes of the people I was helping. The only thing that made all my work possible were the graces of God. This trip confirmed for me that Christ lives within each one of us. There was a moment when I was feeding a child at Bethlehem who couldn’t talk or move any part of her body, yet she still found a way to smile. Smiling is a universal language of love and acknowledges the presence of Christ.

The trip also included some more relaxing and ‘fun’ outings. Br. Elijah, our fearless and funny leader, took us to the famous Devon House Ice Cream where we could enjoy delicious rum and raisin ice cream. On a later day we went to a small private beach where we

enjoyed swimming, playing beach soccer, and eating some traditional Jamaican patties. The beach outing was of course accompanied with Evening Prayer and Rosary during the bus ride. These times were great opportunities to have fun with my fellow missionaries, create lasting memories, and to just laugh and smile. It was beautiful to leave the monastery and experience some of the traditional Jamaican culture. I didn’t know what to expect going into this trip. I knew it was not going to be an easy trip, but I didn’t know what that meant for me personally. I realized that although the trip was mentally, physically and spiritually challenging, God does not give us anything we cannot handle. I learned that when we face the question of suffering, we must remember that God, through the second person of the Trinity, Jesus, was the first to suffer with us. The Missionaries’ motto truly embodies this: “Servitium Dulce Cum Christo Crucifixo” (Joyful Service with Christ on the Cross). Every day brings its own challenges and triumphs; every day is an invitation to live the Gospel. For me, responding to these invitations is what being Catholic is all about. It is about finding ways to make Christ the centre of your life, and to faithfully live the Gospel. This is a journey that is just starting and has an end at the gates of Heaven. Being Catholic is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile. This trip allowed me to grow in ways that I never imagined, create lasting relationships, and to truly live the Gospel. The beauty of this lifestyle and service to the poor was truly inspiring. Nine days was not enough for me; I strongly intend to return to Jamaica for another mission trip with the Missionaries of the Poor in the future.

Newman missionaries serving on our 2017 annual mission trip in Kingston, Jamaica with the Missionaries of the Poor. THE TORCH

- 15 -

[Sasha Hellwig is studying Teaching, with a focus on Christianity and Culture and History at the University of Toronto. She is also a 2017– 2018 Student Campus Minister at Newman Centre] FALL 2017

LEARNING FROM THE SAINTS: ST. KATERI TEKAKWITHA bumps into things.” When she was eighteen she bumped into something and hurt her foot. Due to this injury, she was unable to gather corn with the other women of her tribe. This allowed her to be present when Jesuit missionaries showed up and to speak with them, thus beginning the process of her conversion. She can speak to the debilitated about how God uses the things that they see as debilitating, to draw them closer to Himself.

On the occasion of our country’s 150th anniversary, it is the opportune moment to reflect on the first saint found in Newman’s stained glass windows who actually lived in Canada - St. Kateri Tekakwitha. In addition to the honours given to her by the church, St. Kateri has another honour that perhaps can only be truly appreciated by Canadians. She was the late Leonard Cohen’s favourite saint. Cohen was fascinated by the saint’s story for his entire life, even keeping a statue and two paintings of her in his home. One may rightly ask what it was that caused a Jew turned Buddhist turned Jew again, who had a very complicated relationship with Christianity to have such a deep relationship with the lily of the Kanien’keháka. The answer is simple. “She spoke to me”, Cohen once told an interviewer, “she still speaks to me.” That’s the remarkable thing about St. Kateri though. She lived her life in such a way that she was able to be a channel of God’s love and grace in so many diverse ways that she speaks to people and continues to speak to them. She can speak in a special way to those who feel debilitated. St. Kateri was legally blind due to small pox. In fact, Tekakwitha literally means “She who THE TORCH

She can speak to those who feel lost and confused. It’s a well-known fact that St. Kateri resisted arranged marriages from the age of thirteen onward. We know, however, from her own words that, despite what her family probably thought, she wasn’t opposed to the idea. She was deliberating whether or not marriage was right for her, something which, admittedly, probably became easier when she discovered at the age of twenty -one that life as a consecrated virgin was an option. Still, this witness of her own struggles with discernment followed by a peaceful enlightenment, can speak to those who currently feel lost and confused and show them that God will reveal their right path in His time. She can speak to all of us who are broken and scarred. St. Kateri was covered with physical scars from smallpox for her entire life and I have no doubt that the death of her parents and the near constant ridicule from some of her tribe-mates following her conversion left mental scars as well. Yet witnesses report that when she died, her scars disappeared and those around her saw for the first time that she was in fact extremely beautiful. Even in her death, St. Kateri speaks to us showing us that while our pain and our scars may last in this life, it will be taken away in the next life by the One whose scars remain, the One who spoke to her, who speaks to her and to us and, God willing, always will. Liam A. Farrer is a PhD Student at Regis College at the Toronto School of Theology at the U of T. He is also a Junior Scholar of the Lonergan Research Institute.

- 16 -

FALL 2017

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE IN GOD? By example and by desire…I have faith from my cultural, social and family heritage. Quebec is particularly rich in the memory of those glorious saints who left their country to evangelize New France. How can we not want to follow? Through their teaching and exemplary life and the influence of many wonderful religious people I have developed my attachment to the Lord and to the Church. Very often the question that Jesus asked of Peter: “Peter do you love me?” has resonated in my life. How can we say no to the beauty and attraction of Divine Love that is so nourishing and uplifting? Our faith gives us a sense of direction, of continuity, a quest for hope, for meaning and for certainty. The certainty that hate, suffering, injustice and death will not prevail. People of faith show more sensitivity to others and have greater desire to transform the world. My Christian faith is very important to me because it has triggered the very best in me. God creates in us the desire to turn to Him. The love of God is like a strong magnet. We cannot resist Him. Diane Lauziere, o.p., Newman Parishioner Growing up in a Catholic family, God has always been a part of my life. As I grew older, I began to more clearly see His presence in my daily life. Trusting in Him and in His will has never led me astray and has provided me with countless blessings and opportunities to grow in love and friendship. This unconditional love is why I believe in Him. Danielle Alvares, Newman Student Campus Minister (2016-2017) Believing in God is a reminder to all humankind that we could do better. We could strive to be a better human being and treat each other with love and respect, because all good things come from God. Whenever I witness greatness in my surroundings I am in a constant reminder that God is working through them. Daniel Liu, Student 3I have always believed in God as I grew up in the church and was quite actively involved. He has given me many blessings and lessons and I enjoy praying to Him through the gift of music. I have seen His love through many and pray that they too can experience His love through my actions and work. Alexandra Whittle, Program and Volunteer Coordinator, Newman Centre

ONTARIO HIGH SCHOOLS VISIT NEWMAN CENTRE This summer, we were pleased to welcome students from The Holy Name of Mary College School (right), Cardinal Carter Academy of the Arts, St. Michael’s from Bolton, Ontario, Archbishop Romero, Chaminade and Msgr. Paul Dwyer who learnt about the amazing student community at Newman Centre. Students are introduced to chaplaincies in preparation for university life. Many asked questions about standing up for their faith in secular society. Fr. Peter Turrone highlighted our mission of developing the Catholic leaders of the future and the programs and groups working to evangelize and share our faith in the public square. THE TORCH

- 17 -

FALL 2017

NEWMAN FOUNDATION OF TORONTO PROFILE: VICKIE MCNALLY, BOARD MEMBER, NEWMAN FOUNDATION How long have you been with the Newman Foundation Board? I have been on the Newman Foundation Board for six years. Joining the Board in 2011 was an important decision for me. Supporting the work of the Newman Centre and being involved in its growth is very rewarding.

thoughtful discussion with dynamic guest speakers, staff and volunteers and to participate in the Eucharist and social justice activities. These experiences engage the whole person. I am filled with hope when I think about these students leaving the university setting and becoming leaders in their communities. What are your hopes for Newman Centre? I am so delighted with the growth in the Newman Centre that I have seen over the past six years. Things have changed so much since I was a student and coming here. The Centre is warm and alive with activities that nourish students in so many ways. My hope is that this continues, that students, their parents, the parish community, Friends of Newman, alumni and others realize the great importance of this home on campus for Catholic students.

Why is it important to provide university students with both spiritual and intellectual knowledge? Speaking from my own experience as a student at the University of Toronto in the ’80s it’s very easy to lose one’s connection with anything spiritual. It is easy to get caught up in studies, social activities and experiences that take students away from their faith. Cardinal Newman advocates developing the intellect “training the mind to be accurate, consistent, logical and orderly”. I think it is really important to learn about our faith and grow in it in this way. I love the expression “we can’t love what we don’t know”. The programs offered at the Newman Centre provide opportunities for U of T students to engage in

[Vickie McNally is the Director of Development and Communications at Fontbonne Ministries, Sisters of St. Joseph, Toronto.]

ST. JOHN FISHER FUND Established in late 2015, the St. John Fisher Fund was started by an anonymous donor in support of the Newman Centre chaplaincy programs. “I believe the most important task for the Church is the proper formation of young people which is very difficult in today’s secular, anti-Christian culture,” said our Patron donor. This fund is the kind of gift that allows steady and continuous support for vital programs aimed at developing the Catholic leaders of the future. The fund is named in honour of Saint John Fisher who in addition to being a Cardinal and Bishop, was the Chancellor of the University of Cambridge. Like Blessed Cardinal Newman, he was a strong defender of the Truth and a great intellectual. He was martyred in 1535 for opposing the divorce of Henry VIII. THE TORCH

Students consider the Newman Centre a place of spiritual refuge, peace, respectful debate and fellowship. The fund supports students in a variety of ways through chaplaincy initiatives that keep them grounded in their faith.

The minimum contribution to the fund is $25,000 or $5,000 per year over five years. If you would like to support this fund, please connect with Samantha Koon, Development Officer at [email protected] or 416-979-2468 ext. 243. The Newman Foundation of Toronto is grateful for the support of our donors and works to ensure the maximum impact of every gift.

- 18 -

FALL 2017

NEWMAN EVENTS AT A GLANCE Tear off this quick reference guide to events at Newman and put it on your fridge. For more details, visit our website: www.newmantoronto.com or social media links.

EVENT

DATE

Weekly Holy Hour: “Be still and know that I am God”

Every Thursday, 12:45 - 1:45 pm

New Newmanite Supper Register here: http://bit.ly/FreeNewmanSupper

Saturday, September 23, 2017 4:30 - 8:30 pm

Faith & Reason Lecture: Newman and the Great Apostasia - Edward Short

Thursday, October 12, 7:00 pm

Documentary Screening & Panel Discussion: Poverty Inc.

Wednesday, November 8, 6:30 pm

Business Leadership Breakfast and Talk Andreas Widmer, Author of The Pope and The CEO

Thursday, November 9, 8:00 am

Save the date: Advent Dinner

Thursday, December 7, 6:30 pm

Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration

Sunday, December 10, after Mass

Rise Up Conference in Ottawa

December 28 - January 1

Angelic Doctor Lecture with Fr. Thomas Davenport

Thursday, January 25, 7:00 pm

Newman Centre Chapel Rededication

TBD

Ash Wednesday Liturgies

Wednesday, February 14, 2018 12:15 pm & 7:00 pm

Lenten Retreat with Cardinal Gérald Lacroix

Saturday, February 24, 2018 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Faith & Reason Lecture: The Role of Christianity in the Development of Modern Science - Stacy A. Trasancos

Thursday, March 8, 2018, 7:00 pm

Easter Retreat with Fr. Jacques Philippe

Saturday, April 14, 2018, 9 am - 3 pm

Weekly: Pray & Play (Adoration and Games Night)

Every Tuesday, 7:30 - 10:00 pm

NEWMAN CENTRE MASS TIMES AND VISITING HOURS Mass Times: Monday - Friday 12:15 pm | Saturday 9:30 am (Rosary at 9 am) | Sunday 11 am & 7 pm Mass on statutory holidays: 9:30 am St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel Visiting Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4:45 pm Confession: Confessions are heard before every Mass. You may also book an appointment with Fr. Peter: [email protected] 416-979-2468 ext. 223 THE TORCH

Newman Centre Catholic Mission (Charitable Registration Number: 10791 0259 RR0021 ) 89 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2E8 Tel: 416-979-2468 Facebook.com/newmanchaplaincy Twitter @NewmanUofT YouTube NewmanUofT Interested in receiving Newman Centre’s bi-weekly event updates? Email: [email protected]

- 19 -

FALL 2017

Business Leadership

Breakfast and Talk with Author, Professor, and Tech Entrepreneur

andreas widmer Learn how a meaning-filled approach to business can lead to success Thursday, November 9, 2017 Check-in & Breakfast: 7:30 am Talk: 8:00 - 9:00 am Desautels Hall (Second floor, South Building) Rotman School of Management, 105 St George Street

Registration: bit.ly/PopeandCEO Questions: contact Alexandra Whittle [email protected] This special free event is presented by:

Newman Centre Catholic Mission