DAY OF REFLECTION

After a considerable period, earlier this year, the executive of Province 20 agreed to resurrect the “Day of Reflection” that had been popular with Brothers in past years and the date was set being Sunday the 19 July 2026. Following negotiations with the Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Morley, all details were agreed and the function was well promoted by Province Council to all Circles and Groups in Province 20. It is important to acknowledge the words of Father Chrispine that the Seminary and Province 20 have enjoyed a long and cherished relationship through not only financial means, but with friendship, encouragement and prayers. In fact, a number of Circles have held meetings at the Seminary over recent years.

Thirty Brothers attended and were warmly welcomed by our hosts, Father Chrispine the Rector, Father Josue the Vice Rector and Father Francis the Spiritual Director and the ten seminaries. The program for the day was developed and agreed with all and, on the day, well facilitated by our new Provincial President, Brother John Murray.

At 9.30am we were welcomed into the well-appointed prayers room for the “Lauds” prayers and Hymns. Several photos of this room highlight the main features within that reflect on our faith. Following this service, Brothers were given a tour of the main rooms of the seminary. Again, several photos give evidence of the details and work to achieve the peaceful environment within the seminary. The level of building excellence achieved gave me a reminder of our late Brother Nick D’Amico from the Dianella Circle who was a self-taught builder and gave much of his skills, labour, time and materials to the final outcome of the buildings.

Following the tour, a lovely morning tear was served.  The seminaries looked after the catering and ensured that all the Brothers needs were satisfied. We then moved to the large meeting room, and Brother John Murray skilfully spoke and empathised the values of the Catholic Man series which is currently being promoted and delivered by Catenian Brothers in two selected Parishes in Adelaide. Being Catholic Manhood, the call to Fatherhood, Catholic Marriage and the importance of Catholic Fraternity. A short period of private time was then forth coming until we all moved into the splendid Chapel for a special Mass. The skills and commitment by the seminaries with their musical instruments providing the necessary music and the overall delivery of the Mass was greatly admired.

After Mass, we all adjoined to the dining room where a three-course meal was served by the seminarians. During which Father Chrispine spoke about the history of the Seminary, the work of the inaugural rector being Father Michael Moore and how they totally rely on the generosity of benefactors who believe in the mission of forming priests for the New Evangelisation. In Reply John Murray presentation Father Chrispine with a donation from Province 20.

We then again adjourned to the meeting room, and Brother John continued with his talk about key aspects of the Catholic Man Series. This was followed up with a short break for private prayer and then afternoon tea. The final part of the day was “Vespers” that is a liturgy of evening prayer before dusk begins to fall and gives thanks for the day and praise to God.

With the “Day of Reflection” now completed, Brothers thanked the Priests and seminaries for their care and guidance of us through the special day given to our faith.

If you wish to provide any feedback from the function, I welcome your comments.

Lou Daily