CTF Indonesia
Padang, Indonesia 1 – CTF Indonesia and SOS DRS in Mission
CTF Indonesia in collaboration with SOS DRS and two Indonesian organizations – Humanitarian and Charity Group [KBKK] and Franciscan Justice and Peace [JPIC] will provide medical, pastoral and humanitarian assistance in West Pasaman, Padang, Indonesia from December 27-January 6, 2010 [see map of Indonesia]. Padang is midway up the Island of Sumatra on the west coast [see map] This area was struck by a terrible earthquake at the end of September 2009 – earthquake in Padang (see pictures).
Members of the team include Fr. Christo, OFM; Dr. Lukas Jusuf; Dr. Irene Setiadi; Theresia Sinaga; Fr. Scott Binet MD, MI and numerous volunteers. The team will be working together with the local medical establishment and with the Franciscans who have been at the site doing rehabilitation and constructing houses since the earthquake. This is KBKK’s 3rd mission to the region. During the first one immediately after the earthquake they opened a food kitchen and fed thousands of people over several weeks. During the second mission they provided trauma healing services and established a network to continue this in the community in their absence.
The CTF has together with collaborators responded to 6 disasters in Indonesia: Earthquake 2004 [Nabire]; Tsunami 2005 [Banda Aceh], Earthquake 2005 [Nias]; Earthquake 2006 [Yogyakarta]; Landslide 2007 [Kupang], Earthquake 2008 [Bengkulu]. It was in the wake of the Tsunami in 2004 that I first met Dr. Irene Setiadi and collaborated with her organization – KBKK. We kept in touch over the years and then at the time of the earthquake in Padang started communicating about a collaborative mission to the earthquake affected area. The hope of CTF Indonesia and SOS DRS has been to collaborate with others in Indonesia to spread the Gospel through concrete acts of charity – ubi caritas, Desu ibi est.
Theresia and I are now north of Padang in Banda Aceh at the tip of the Island of Sumatra [see map] . We will head to Padang on the morning of the 27th. Please keep us, the mission and those people affected by the earthquake in your prayers.
Fr. Scott
To financially support this relief effort, click here
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Serving With CTF-SOS DRS – Eric Dizon – A Personal Reflection
- (L-R) David, Fr. Scott & Eric – in the Philippines
By Fr. Scott Binet and Eric Dizon
I first met Eric Dizon in 2004 while on a medical mission in the Philippines that was sponsored by the Rizal McArthur Memorial Foundation.
This was the beginning of what would become a very fruitful collaboration between yours truly and Eric, the Filipino community in Wisconsin and my Camillian confreres in the Philippines. And that collaboration has to this day helped to promote the mission of the CTF very much. In fact, the largest supporters in the US of the CTF-SOS DRS response to the recent disaster in the Philippines (Typhoon Ketsana) are members of the Filipino community in Wisconsin. And Eric Dizon – a Filipino American – is a member of that community.
This is how Eric and I met. I left Milwaukee in January 2004 and traveled to Honduras for a collaborative medical mission and then to El Salvador to evaluate the local Caritas response to the earthquakes that shook the country in 2001. Then I went to the Philippines to join my fellow Camillian Fr. James Roa MD, MI and several other medical professionals from Milwaukee.
After Celebrating the Eucharist - Rizal McArthur Memorial Foundation (RMMF) Medical Mission - 2004
We then went by bus on a mission that took us to several cities in the Philippines. There we – including Eric, who would soon become a medical student – served the health needs (medical and surgical) of many people. And we also prayed, worshiped, ate and socialized together. There were about 25 of us. This was the beginning of a very fruitful relationship with the Filipino community in both the US and the Philippines.
The fruits of this initial encounter in the Philippines have been many: Members of the Philippine community in Milwaukee included Fr. James Roa MD, MI in their next RMMF mission; They started to give medical supplies and equipment for the work of the Camillians in Calbayog City, Philippines and elsewhere; Eric and I started to find ways to work together for the CTF.
Later that year in December when the 2004 Tsuanmi hit and I was already in Banda Aceh, Indonesia – Eric contacted me and asked if he could help in the relief effort. I consented and Eric flew to Indonesia and helped us for a month. It was a good experience for all concerned as Eric’s ability to work as part of a team and his trustworthiness, intelligence, wit and physical strength made him a very helpful part of the CTF response. After his time in Indonesia Eric returned to the US and continued his studies. Then during 2 subsequent summers he helped us during our MCP parish appeals as we traveled throughout the US. Eric has spoken in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, to name a few places – a missionary on a new mission! Well, here are Eric’s own words about his experience this last summer.
I flew out to Newark from Milwaukee on a very rainy June 12th but missed my connection to Scranton that night due to inclement weather. Making my way to a local hotel, I spent the night in New Jersey before flying out the following morning.
D’Ann, the CTF-SOS DRS executive assistant, pulled up to the baggage claim area with an affable, urbane priest in tow who introduced himself as Father Francis from Kenya. Loading my bags into the Toyota Sienna Van of SOS DRS, we headed to Our Lady of Victory Parish in Tannersville, Pennsylvania, my first parish of the MCP appeal season and part of the Diocese of Scranton (See Map).
The SOS DRS MCP Appeal Team in Scranton (L to R): Eric, D'Ann, Fr. Scott, Fr. Francis
Our Lady of Victory was a gorgeous church. Constructed with steel, glass, and wooden beams, the architecture was very modern and minimal yet surprisingly warm at the same time. Father Richard, the pastor, helped me lug my bags up to my room in the rectory. Leading me over to the church, he then helped me set up the CTF banners for the mass that evening. After the celebration he took me out to dinner at a local Italian restaurant where he regaled me with stories of his life in the Poconos. Then Fr. Richard showed me around town.
I had several more appeals on Sunday. Afterwards, a parishioner was kind enough to prepare lunch for me at the rectory while I waited for D’Ann to pick me up.
D’Ann arrived that afternoon; we drove over to the Fatima Renewal Center in Dalton, PA where we were later reunited with Father Francis. The facility was HUGE, but there were only four people staying there (myself, D’Ann, Fr. Francis, and a priest on sabbatical). Running in the peaceful mountain woods that evening, I encountered a family of deer. It was surreal…
The next morning D’Ann, Father Francis, and I drove to Canastota, NY to stay for several days at Saint Agatha’s Parish, Fr. Francis’ home away from home in the US. He turned out to be quite the chef (the man was like Wolfgang Puck) and offered us the experience of eating ugali and other Kenyan delicacies. One evening Father Cleophas, the representative in the US of the Diocese of which Fr. Francis is a part (Nakuru – See Map), invited us both to watch his soccer match in Syracuse and to have tea at the rectory afterwards. The following day Francis and I played golf with Fr. Cleophas at a local course. And Cleophas then came returned with us to Canastota to make dinner!
The three of us drove back to the Fatima Renewal Center in Dalton that Thursday where we were reunited with Father Scott who had been making an MCP in South Carolina.
We headed into downtown Scranton the following morning for a meeting and interview at the Office of the Propagation of the Faith at the chancery of the Diocese of Scranton.
Deacon Ed Kelly (seen here between Fr. Francis and yours truly) was kind enough to take us on a tour of the rectory and the church, both of which were achingly beautiful. Delivering Father Scott to a local parish for his appeals, the rest of the team then headed for Ohio.
My parish there was much smaller than that in PA, which meant I only had three appeals that weekend. The parish, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, was in Youngstown (See Map). Father John Madden (not the football coach) took me out to dinner at the Amen Corner after mass that Saturday evening. Celebrating his 23rd anniversary as a priest that Sunday at a steakhouse lunch, we ate and debated whether Jim Brown or Walter Payton was the greatest running back of all time!
On Monday D’Ann, Fr. Francis and I headed back for Canastota via Niagara Falls, NY – spending the remainder of the week at Saint Agatha’s Parish. Another priest from Kenya named Father Chris was there to greet us upon our arrival. And Fr. Cleophas and another Kenyan priest named Father John dropped by one evening to make us dinner. What a deal…ugali again!
The group split up later that week to make appeals. Fathers Francis and Fr. Chris were off to New Orleans, LA to make appeals for their diocese. We dropped them off at the airport in Syracuse, and then D’Ann and I made our way to Newark, NJ; I spent the night at a local hotel. Retrieving Father Scott from a friend’s home in Yonkers the next day, we then dropped him off at JFK Airport in New York City. He was going to attend the CTF-Pastoral Centers 1 Conference in Madrid. I, instead, was off to Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Montclair, NJ.
Greeting me in the rain later that evening, Father Tony Leonelli of OLMC helped me tote my bags into the rectory. The two of us went out for ice cream that night and had an interesting discussion about the differences between life on the East Coast and in the Midwest. We also went out for a lovely dinner with Father Tom. I had five appeals at the parish that weekend. Built in 1939, OLMC was created in the Italian Gothic style (very elegant and timeless).
D’Ann picked me up Sunday afternoon, and we headed for the rectory of Father Greg Uhrig at Saint Luke’s in Plainfield, NJ. We spent the week there, which gave me the opportunity to spend a bit of time in nearby New York City.
I went to Saint Jude’s in Paterson, NJ on the Fourth of July. Father Bob (a die-hard Red Sox fan) was very hospitable and teased me for wearing a (souvenir) Yankees hat. I believe I had 6 appeals at Saint Jude’s even though I was only there for a 24-hour span! Spending a bit of time at Lucky Garden next door, I met some of the rambunctiously friendly locals from the neighborhood.
D’Ann picked me up Sunday afternoon, and we made the long drive back from New Jersey to Wisconsin…uggh!
The following weekend D’Ann and I were off to the Diocese of Dubuque, IA. Assigned to the parish of Saint John the Baptist for three appeals, I stayed in the home of Hal and Sharon Dendurent. They were kind enough to take me to a local festival and concert, which gave me the opportunity to for the first time eat the famous Iowa State Fair Fried Twinkie! I had a lot of fun there.
My final series of appeals (three this weekend) was at Saint Anne’s in Ortonville, MI in the Diocese of Detroit (see map). Apparently, Kid Rock lived down the street from the parish, which I thought was pretty cool. Hosting me were Father Gerard Frawley (of County Limerick, Ireland) and his German Shepherd Sammy. The Church had an interesting configuration as the altar was placed in the very middle of the room. We went out for dinner at an Italian restaurant next door and then watched a documentary about poverty in Africa. Father Frawley made breakfast for me Sunday morning before my final two appeals…
Overall, I had great time this past summer doing MCP appeals, facilitating the Camillian Task Force’s mission to serve the neediest of the needy… I look forward to my next experience with the CTF…
Eric Dizon
CTF Thailand Myanmar Mission #2 – Part 2
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
CTF Thailand and CTF Indonesia Collaborate
Nearly a year after the landfall of Cyclone Nargis in May, 2008 the populations of Thailand and Myanmar continue to feel the effects of the catastrophe on their livelihoods and quality of existence. The CTF, in collaboration with other organizations, responded to the disaster by providing for the following needs of the affected: medical, the disbursement of supplies and funding, the provision of agricultural equipment, consolation in the form of spiritual and emotional support. See Recent Disaster Response: CTF Thailand – Myanmar Mission #1 – Part 1.
Myanmar
In our previous report on the efforts of CTF Thailand and CTF Indonesia (Myanmar Mission 2 – Part 1) in the Camillian Task Force SOS DRS April 2009 Newsletter, we discussed both the preparations required for the success of Mission 2 and some of the challenging delays our team encountered due to governmental intervention and the uprisings at the Suvarnabhumi Airport. We also recounted the efforts of Theresia Sinaga at the Camillian Home for People with Disabilities as she awaited authorization to travel.
The Joint Mission to Chiangrai
Finally, despite interruptions, God interceded on behalf of both His suffering people and the Camillian team. The latter was finally able to solidify travel arrangements for a mission into Myanmar scheduled for December 14 through 19. As the team awaited for final clearance to travel into the country, though, the partners of the Camillians in Myanmar and 23 BDA volunteers, under the leadership of Mr. Myo Thein, commenced with the previously proposed activities. In Kyauktan (near Yangon), they served the Zamburatanar Nunnery School where they provided medical services and provided an enjoyable afternoon for the young students by serving a lunch consisting of rice, chicken curry, preserved fish and other savory fare.
Meanwhile, the Camillian team in Thailand decided to zealously serve the Lord and their neighbors by helping the cyclone-affected populations in Chiangrai, Thailand. This area is located in the forested hill country of Thailand near the Myanmar border. The residents there often sport traditional Thai attire yet speak Burmese (Myanmarian). Luckily, students were present to translate. In their subsequent communication, team members expressed both feelings of joy for the opportunity to serve and alienation (as they were unable to access the internet to communicate with others regarding their activities!).
In her correspondence Theresia Sinaga highlights how activities commenced in Chiangrai on December 7 with the celebration of the Eucharist. Afterwards, the Camillian team ministered to the needs of about 100 patients through two mobile clinics.
The 40 mobile-clinic team members consisted of three doctors: Dr. Chusak Pankerd (Camillian Hospital, Bangkok), Dr. Manas Ratanachokthorani, and Dr. Pusha Nakrue (San Camillo Hospital). There were also a dentist, nurses and volunteers from the two hopitals – Camillian and San Camillo. During four days they served approximately 100 residents in two villages – predominantly children.
Theresia Sinaga reported that the populations of the remote farming villages they served were living in poverty. Road conditions left much to be desired. Although clean water was available, a cold climate and a lack of funds for supplies contributed to less than optimal hygiene. Baths were often a weekly luxury for the villagers. Common maladies included skin diseases and infestation by lice. Medical services in the locality are limited to those provided annually by mobile clinics.
After her return to Bangkok and prior to departing for the December mission into Myanmar, Theresia reported she was very much moved by the Holy Spirit as she witnessed both two Camillian brothers taking their final vows and later the ordination of three Camillian priests.
Into Myanmar
The team flew from Bangkok into Myanmar via Thai Airways. The option of driving would have added many hours to the journey, and the passage through security checkpoints presented the hazard of even more delays. Officials are reluctant to allow visitors to travel outside of Yangon. Even donations on behalf of the population were restricted. By mandate, disbursements to the needy could be made only through the local authorities.
Upon the arrival of the team in Myanmar, Fr. Rocco met with the Chairman of the BDA and Ms. Daw Moe Soe (founder of the CSI) regarding the arranged programs and future joint collaboration with the BDA and the CSI. The participants discussed the medical and agriculture needs of the affected Myanmarian population, including the feasibility of providing a water purification system to satisfy the immediate need for drinking water.
Subsequently, the Camillian team members embarked upon their journey to Bogolay. When they arrived at the pier, the team was greeted by CSI volunteers, who arrived armed with supplies, medication, and two boxes of Safe Delivery Kits donated by UNFPA. They crossed the Yangon River to Bogolay by ferry and then transferred to a taxi with four bald tires and no air conditioning. Traveling for 5 hours via roads that were under construction, the passengers braced themselves during the turbulent journey. They were moved with compassion as they observed the local citizens using the polluted river water for washing and drinking purposes.
When the team arrived at the temple in Bogolay, they utilized candles and a car battery for power and light. For three nights, eleven people slept on the temple floor on straw mats beneath the protection of mosquito nets. The following day, the team commenced on their mission to offer assistance to a series of local villages that had been affected by the wrath of Nargis.
Kapana Village
Population: 646 (158 families)
Elementary students: 164; Teachers: 5
Lake-Kapar Village
Population: 762 (195 families)
Subsistence: Farming, fishing
Travel Time: 1 hour+ (2 km)
The team departed from the pier near the Bogolay Temple along with the temple Abbot in a small boat laden with oils, onions & candles for distribution. Along the way, Fr. Rocco observed that the palm trees along the river banks were bare except for a few young leaves. The mature leaves had been used for construction following the disaster.
The village school had collapsed during the Cyclone and had been replaced with two small tents covered with plastic. The temperatures within were stifling. Residents had been waiting in vain for governmental support for new construction for over a year (estimated at US $17,000). When activities were concluded, team members realized that the tides had relocated their vessel: they trudged about a kilometer with their supplies before they were able to depart.
Pin Lai Thein Village, Bogolay Township
Population: 724 (132 Families)
Students: 200
Travel Time: 2 hours
The following day, while the team gulped down a hurried meal, obliging villagers assisted by loading supplies onto the boat. Upon arrival, the team discovered that the school consisted of a temporary shelter. Although CTF Thailand had previously provided some financial support for renovation, the need for a new temple and community facility was evident.
Oak Tube Village, Bogolay Township
Population: 2080 (410 Families)
Students: 180 (5 teachers)
Patients: 150
Subsistence: Farming, fishing
The team performed medical services in the monastery compound, which doubled as the school. Once again, tidal influences prevented a timely departure. The team worked into the wee hours and staggered to their boat in darkness, with only a few flashlights to illuminate their path. Upon arriving in Bogolay, the exhausted missionaries were left with only one hour to recuperate until their scheduled departure to the next location.
Ngwe Taung Yan Village, Bogolay Township
Population: 534
Patients: 120
Travel time: 2 hours
Upon arrival, the fatigued missionaries were greeted by the Abbot of Pyisimaryone Monastery, U Cin Tita Likara. In the Burmese culture, monasteries serve the communities in numerous capacities. They function as schools for underprivileged children and as points of distribution for supplies and shelter during disasters. “According to the social welfare department, 740 monasteries were destroyed and 3,235 monasteries were badly damaged when Cyclone Nargis made landfall on May 2 and 3 (See MYANMAR: Cyclone-hit monasteries in need).
The monks themselves often receive more respect and credibility than the village officials for maintaining, spiritual social and material balance within their communities. Thus, the Abbott is a key reference person for identifying the needs of the members of his community.
CTF Thailand had previously provided support to Ngwe Taung Yan Village for the erection of a clinic and housing. The team was pleased at the efficiency with which the clinic was operated. Since its grand opening on November 26, 2008, it has provided free services to 346 patients, and saved 4 lives. Medical services are provided by physicians and volunteers on a rotating schedule under the supervision of the Abbot. Fr. Rocco provided the Abbot with an advance for the expenses of medications for another three months, as per agreement.
Upper Kyane Lada Village, Mawkyun Township
Population: 944 (218 Families)
Students: (Government Primary School): 120 (Grades 1-8)
Patients: 200
Subsistence: Farming
Upon arrival to Upper Kyane Lada Village by boat, the team was welcomed by Abbot Dhama Tarmi of Maha Bodi Monastery. The team discovered that nearly every house in the village had been destroyed by Cyclone Nargis. The nearest health care facilities, accessible only via a narrow path through a field, were 6 km away.
On December 17 – Fr. Rocco, Myo Thein, U Cin Tita Likara, Marissa Khomin and U Dhama Tarmi discussed future collaboration. The St. Camillus Foundation of Thailand agreed to provide help in conjunction with the Pyisimaryone Monastery to facilitate the construction of a medical clinic with basic medical equipment, medical supplies and medications, along with a commitment to support the clinic with medications for one year. Abbott U Cin Tita Likara agreed to provide management, quality control, quarterly reporting and technical support. The clinic was to be modeled after the existing facility in Ngwe Taung Yan Village. The Pyisimaryone Monastery and the St. Camillus Foundation agreed to evaluate and monitor the clinic.
Upper Katha Bond Village, Mawkyun Township
Population: 350 (families - 100)
Students: 95
Pyisimaryone Monastery, Mawkyun
The group returned to Pyisimaryone Monastery where the Abbot had arranged for Fr. Rocco Pairat to distribute stationary to over 1,000 students at the monastic school that receives educational grants from the Camillians in Thailand. The subsequent voyage to Bogolay lasted two hours.
Thit Phyu Chaung Village, Bogolay Township
Population: 970, (families – 167)
Students: (Government Primary School- Grades 1- 5): 70
Patients: 60
There are no communication mediums between Thit Phyu Chuang Village and the rest of civilization. Thankfully, the prior arrival of two volunteers ensured the proper organization of activities. No time was squandered with formalities.
The local school had been completely destroyed by the savage Cyclone. It was replaced by a sweltering temporary shelter. The need for a new building, at an estimated cost of 166 Lakhs, was apparent.
Three children of the village were orphaned by Nargis’ tirade. Ms. May Yamon Soe (age 15, grade 10) and Ms. Thue Tar Khin (age 11, grade 7) live with their grandmothers. Mr. A Shin Thiha (age 12) is living in the monastery as a novice. All three require educational support.
The team provided medical services and supplies: oil, onions and candles. There were no latrines in the village so arrangements were made to provide funds for the purchase of plastic latrines for every family in the village. Arrangements were also made to provide support for the construction of a bridge from Thit Phyu Chaung Village to Ma Ye Ywar Village, at the request of the head of the village committee.
Fr. Rocco Pairat visited the temporary school and a piece of land that had been donated to the community to build a clinic. One of the villagers has been attending a three- month nurse assistant training course in Yangon with the support of CSI volunteers. Upon completion of the training, she plans to return to the village and provide for the basic health care needs of villagers. Fr. Rocco felt that it would be agreeable to explore the possibility and logistics of future funding for the village.
Return to Yangon
Following another arduous 2-hour cruise and a 3-hour taxi-ride, the team arrived in Yangon just in time to rid themselves of the rural dust that had accumulated during their ride and then board their flight back to Bangkok.
Despite the challenges, the team had realized many of its goals. Theresia Sinaga’s correspondence indicates her satisfaction with the mission in spite of the hardships.
She reports, “I was happy to meet people from other countries and to share in their experiences. I feel that I have been blessed to have made so many new friends that I made in the service of the Lord. As a missionary, I would like to invite and encourage others to give of their time in missionary service as well. As Jesus said, ‘Whatever you do to the least of my brothers (and sisters,) you do unto me.’ We should think about and pray concerning this message.”
Theresia Sinaga – CTF-SOS DRS Indonesian Coordinator
Susan M. Stefanski, Assistant Editor, CTF- SOS DRS Online Newsletter
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The Catholic Catechism teaches. . .
“All men are bound to seek the truth, especially in what concerns God and His Church, and to embrace and hold onto it as they have come to know it.” This duty derives from “the very dignity of the human person.” It does not contradict a “sincere respect” for different religions which frequently “reflect a ray of that truth which enlightens all men,” nor the requirement of charity, which urges Christians to treat with love, prudence and patience those who are in error or ignorance with regard to the faith. (Catechism of the Catholic Church – 2104) |
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
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From Indonesia to Kenya – My Experience – Theresia Sinaga – A Personal Reflection -
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
My participation during CTF Thailand-Myanmar Mission #2 inspired me with a burning desire to continue to serve the Lord through serving His people. On December 23, 2008, I returned to Indonesia where I spent a nostalgic month with my family. On the 5th anniversary of the Tsunami in Banda Aceh (December 26), we recalled the tragedy with both sorrow and gratitude. The loss of my sister and others during this assault of nature left us all with spiritual scars that only our prayers can soften.
Despite the sadness, the time with my family served as a rejuvenating preparation for the events to come.
While I was in Bangkok, Thailand Fr. Scott asked me to inquire about obtaining a visa to Rome so that I could participate in the CTF Leaders conference scheduled for February 2009. I was very grateful to be considered for such an opportunity, and I initiated the necessary arrangements. After the conclusion of my missionary work in Bangkok and Myanmar (December 2008), I visited the Italian embassy in Indonesia. I obtained the necessary information and forwarded it to Fr. Scott. Brother Luca Perletti in Rome assisted me by sending me an official letter of invitation. On February 5, 2009 I was granted a 3-month visa by the Italian Embassy.
Although my flight itinerary included a trip to Kenya after going to Rome, it was not necessary to apply for a Kenyan visa while in Indonesia. It was my understanding that it would be possible to apply for such at the airport in Nairobi.
Prior to my departure for Rome, though, Fr. Scott had asked me to prepare myself to remain in Kenya for at least one year. I knew this extended stay would present an emotional and spiritual challenge for me. It was not easy for me to leave my country, my family, my friends and my food. I knew, however, that it was God’s will for me to take this leap of faith on behalf of those whose lives I would be enhancing through the service I would offer during the time in Kenya. I also knew that I would be acquiring priceless experience and making many new friends. And I felt that this was what the Lord wanted from me. So with much thought and prayer I finalized my decision to leave my country of Indonesia.
Rome
I was quite grateful for the opportunity to attend the CTF Leaders Conference in Rome, Italy – the seat of the Catholic Church. In addition to a desire to serve Christ through my work with the CTF, I was also eagerly anticipating the opportunity to enjoy the renowned artistic masterpieces of the Holy City!
On February 6, 2009 I flew from Jakarta (the capital of Indonesia) to Singapore and then to Rome. I arrived at the airport in Rome at 6:00 a.m.. I was blessed to meet two sisters from Papua, New Guinea who had arrived to continue their studies. Our conversation about Indonesia, New Guinea and spiritual matters infused me with great inspiration, and helped me to agreeably pass some time.
Shortly after I had retrieved my luggage, Fr. Scott picked me up and drove me to the Maddalena, the mother house of the Camillians in Rome. It was a delightful setting. I found the people I encountered there to be very warm and hospitable.
On my first day at the community Fr. Scott guided me through the house and the church. He recounted the history of Saint Camillus de Lellis . I was most impressed by the amazing relics of St. Camillus – including his heart and his bones! Even after hundreds of years, the community managed to safeguard and treasure some of the saint’s belongings such as his letters and shoes.
Following my tour, I was introduced to the residents of the community, and then Fr. Scott and I enjoyed lunch. Those present included Fr. Renato Salvatore, MI (Father General), Fr. Jesus Ruiz, MI (Vicar General), Br. Luca Perletti, MI (Secretary General, Missions), Fr. Paulo Guarise, MI (Ministry, the former delegate of Kenya), Fr. Babychan P, MI (Formation), Fr. Francisco and Fr. Locci.
At that first meal I savored pasta (spaghetti), mushrooms, beans, potatoes and pork – but to my dismay, no rice!! I was initially a bit hesitant about this new food because it was so unfamiliar to me. At home in Indonesia our meals normally always include rice. Nevertheless, I tried to enjoy the unfamiliar dishes. Day by day I became more accustomed to Italian cuisine, and finally I learned to appreciate it – although I continued to miss my usual Indonesian fare. On one occasion I was treated to Chinese food, which was pleasantly similar to the food of my own country.
Kenya
My purposes in traveling to Kenya were to foster the growth of the CTF and to study clinical pastoral education (CPE) at the Servants of the Sick Training Center in Nairobi. Fr. Scott had been wanting to expand the CTF to include a Kenyan location since 2004. His dreams were finally being realized.
CTF-SOS DRS Kenya: Alice Sarry, Gideon Karuri, Theresia Sinaga and Fr. John Mosoti
On Monday, March 16, 2009 Fr. Scott and I flew to Kenya where we were greeted at the airport by Fr. Raphael Otieno. He drove us to Bolech House in Nairobi, one of the Kenyan Camillian communities (Dennis Pritt Rd 39, Caledonia, Nairobi, Kenya). Fr. Scott and I both used our time constructively–napping! Fr. Raphael woke us to inform us that we had arrived at our destination.
During breakfast, Fr. Scott updated us about his works and experiences as the CTF coordinator. Afterwards, I once again attempted to catch up on my rest. Sleep did not come easily, however. Aside from the residents, the community also served as a home for seven dogs, three of which were still puppies. They were quite vocal, and their incessant yelps helped neither my rest nor prayer.
This first day in Kenya, March 16, 2009 will be forever imprinted in my memory.
In the afternoon I met Carola who workes as the Kenyan coordinator for Salute e Sviluppo. At 8:00 p.m., Fr. Scott and I met for dinner. We were joined by Fr. Raphael Otieno and Fr. John Mosoti, the supervisor of the Camillian Pastoral Center in Kenya. During dinner and for some time afterward, we discussed our accomplishments as CTF. It was enjoyable to share our activities and our mission with individuals who have similar vocational goals and commitments.
Prior to retiring, Fr. John introduced us to the boisterous canine sentry team, which actually proved to be quite a friendly group when we were properly introduced. Fr. John Mosoti informed us that they were ” the vicious guardians of the community”.
The following morning and each day thereafter, Fr. Scott and I prayed the WMR, spent time with Christ in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and celebrated Holy Mass. We worked, etc and then at three o’clock we met to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet. My prayer life continues to flourish in Kenya.
The food in Kenya is unique and unlike any fare that I have ever known On a daily basis we enjoy ugali (corn porridge) that is made from maize flour and is recognized as the Kenyan national dish. The cooks – Adrian, Lilian and Theresia – also prepare pasta and chapati, my favorite. I am thankful for the love and care they show in preparing these delicious dishes.
I attended several meetings whose aim was the expansion of CTF-SOS DRS through collaboration with a network of Camillian entities – CTF-SOS DRS, Salute e Sviluppo, the Camillian Sisters, Fr.John Mosoti (Director of the Camillian Pastoral Center) and Fr. James Wanjau (Provincial Delegate). CTF-SOS DRS is now working together with the pastoral center in Nairobi. We are grateful to Fr. John Mosoti for providing us with an office. CTF-SOS DRS has enhanced the pastoral center by providing internet at the Servants of the Sick Training Center. We hope to continue this opportunity to serve God and people through the pastoral center. The CTF intends to continue to send students to the Training Center for Clinical Pastoral Education and to fund their training.
The Servants of the Sick Training Center s operated by the Camillians under the direction and supervision of Fr. John Mosoti, a Camillian priest and psychologist. I must be honest in expressing that my interest in taking the CPE courses was initially only mild at best. When Fr. Scott explained the goodness that can be accomplished with the knowledge obtained from the CPE curriculum and offered to fund my studies, I finally agreed. I submitted my application to Fr. John who subsequently interviewed me. I also had an interview with Sr. Dervilla O’ Donnel, a nurse and sister of the Medical Missionaries of Mary. The interview was challenging, but I believe I communicated well. Both supervisors questioned my intentions in taking the course and explained the curriculum to me. Upon learning more about the course, my ambition increased and I became quite enthusiastic. I prayed that I would be accepted and for God’s grace in helping me to complete the course. I later continued my prayers that he would help me to persever.
Servants of the Sick Training Center Students: Sr. Dervilla O’ Donnel (supervisor), Br. Thomas Makori, Sr. Susan Wango Munyangia, Theresia Sinaga, Br. Gabriel Maina, Veronica Biyaki and Jackline Njeri
On May 25, 2009 I began my studies -the birthday of St. Camillus! I made a number of friends, most of whom were of African descent. Needless to say, I was the only Indonesian. Of the 13 students, three were priests (Fr. Dominic N’Juve, Fr. Dominic Musyoki and Fr. Thomas Apil), two were Camillian sisters (Sr. Susan Wango Munyangia [1st unit] and Sr. Salome) three were Camillian brothers (Br. Raphael N’ Dungu, Br. Thomas Makori [1st unit] and Br. Gabriel Maina [1st unit]), one was a Notre Dame sister from Nigeria (Sr. Eunice Dagi - (see CTF Kenya-Camillians’ Pastoral Response to Nakumatt Fires in Nairobi), and four were lay people (Monica, Jacqline Njerji [2nd unit], Veronica Biyaki [2nd unit] and myself). Sr. Eunice had already completed two units of CPE training and was present to commence a third unit. Three of the students had completed the first unit and the remaining nine, including myself, were just beginning our studies.
The CPE curriculum includes 270 hours of training in ministry practicum (27 hours per week) and the preparation of a verbatim each week. I was assigned to Kenyatta National Hospital and Mathare Psychiatric Hospital.
Kenyatta National Hospital is a public hospital where I served in the surgical ward. The Mathare Psychiatric Hospital has person who are mentally ill. My greatest challenge was the language. Most of the patients spoke Swahili, the most common language in the locality. The first and second weeks of my studies presented incredible tribulation, and I must admit that I was quite inclined to resign. It was particularly difficult for me to deal with my own feelings and past while listening to the patients recount their sadness, their rejection, their anger and the losses of family members and loved ones. I felt as if I did not have the answers to help them cope with their sorrows. One of the patients, A 15-year old girl, was diagnosed with cancer of her lips seven years ago. She asked me, “Am I going to die?” I was uncertain how I should answer her. After a period of silence I had to admit that I did not know. Her predicament brought me to tears and brought back memories of my younger sister, Anastasia, who died at a very untimely age in the Tsunami of Dec 26, 2004.
I offer thanks to God that my supervisor, Sr. Dervilla O’Donnel, remained by my side during my ministry practicum. Her presence helped me emotionally in numerous ways while challenging me to learn and to become a better human being. My other new friends and Fr. Scott were also a source of support, enlightenment and inspiration. I could not give up because I realized that I was being faced with the reality of life. The experience infused me with a sincere zeal toward my studies.
During the fifth week, I began contemplating the possibility of becoming a CPE supervisor in my own country. I recalled my own despair during my hospital stay following the Tsunami. Nobody was available for the patients to speak with regarding their feelings. My CPE training, in conjunction with my own experiences and reflections, has increased my awareness regarding the importance of providing emotional and spiritual care to people who are suffering: disaster victims, the sick, the poor, the abused. One of my dreams for the future is to open a CTF-SOS DRS pastoral center in my own country of Indonesia. I will pray and hope for this opportunity.
Theresia Sinaga (Center) at the Servants of the Sick Training Center Graduation with CTF-SOS DRS member Alice Sarry and volunteer Gideon Karuri
On August 1, 2009 I finished the CPE course. The insights and knowledge I acquired will remain in my heart, soul and mind forever. I would have liked to have been able to register for the next CPE unit, but I will be unable to do so at present,. I have been accepted at Hekima College, a part of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. I will be doing a master’s degree in peace studies and international relations. But I hope and pray that the opportunity to do CPE will present itself again in the future after I have completed my studies.
On the last day that I visited the Mathare Hospital, a patient who had resided there for 5 months poignantly questioned the reason for my anticipated departure. He seemed dismayed that I would not be returning, and he told me how much my presence had helped him. It was wonderful moment. All the patients thanked me for visiting them. Many had been rejected by the family members because of their illness. Despite their afflictions, they are human beings like you and I. And they require the love and support of others. I was happy for the opportunity to personify Christ in their lives. He said, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me” (Matt: 25: 35-36). He was my inspiration throughout.
I thank the Lord for introducing me to the CPE courses through Fr. Scott, for my instructors, and for my friends who have supported me. I thank you, the reader, for your prayers and your support. May God continue to bless us all!
Theresia Sinaga
Nairobi, Kenya
Susan M. Stefanski, Assistant Editor, CTF-SOS DRS Online Newsletter
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( 4 so far )Camillian Task Force in Indonesia
The CTF led by Fr. Scott Binet, MD will be collaborating with the Emergency Response Office of the Episcopal Conference of Indonesia and Caritas to respond to the devastating disaster in Aceh, Indonesia.
On Dec. 26, 2004, a 9.0 earthquake off the western coast of the island of Sumatra in Indonesia generated tsunamis that at last count killed over 150,000 people.
The CTF effort in Indonesia is one of three that the Camillians are undertaking in Asia. They are also helping victims in Thailand and India.
Please pray for the victims of this deadly disaster and for the success of those who are helping.
Camillian Task Force in Indonesia
In Indonesia, small aid groups target victims big agencies might miss
MEDAN, Indonesia (CNS) — Smaller Catholic nongovernmental organizations are among the larger and more established groups responding to the tsunami disaster in Indonesia’s Aceh province. Some of the nongovernmental organizations — such as the Franciscans’ Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation, an outspoken advocacy group that has lobbied for human rights in several Indonesian provinces — were well-established in Indonesia.
Others were hastily organized in the aftermath of the Dec. 26 disaster. The Medan Archdiocese, which covers Aceh province, formed a relief agency, Jarkas, Jan. 5. The Archdiocese does not have its own Caritas organization. Jarkas’ director, Capuchin Father Benyamin Purba, said when organizers sat down at the first meeting, “we did not know where to start.” “This was beyond our capacity. We were not prepared to respond to this massive relief effort because we have no experience,” he said.
In the meantime, donations of cash and supplies poured in from Indonesian Catholics and from other Catholics in neighboring countries, which enabled Jarkas to quickly begin operations. Father Purba said Jarkas workers decided to focus on Meulaboh, a hard-hit coastal city, and on Jan. 12 the agency sent two trucks loaded with food, tents and clothing to the city. Two additional trucks were sent to Meulaboh Jan. 21. Ten days later, Father Purba flew to Simeulue Island off Sumatra’s coast to assess damage there. Caritas Germany provided Jarkas with funding to rebuild 100 houses and two schools. Jarkas also dispatched a dozen or so seminarians to Meulaboh in late January to operate a soup kitchen on the grounds of a mosque. Several dozen bags of rice sat outside Father Purba’s office in Medan in late January, awaiting transport to Meulaboh. “We may not be as big as the others, but we can still help,” he said. The work of all of the smaller Catholic organizations overlap, and, on any particular day, sometimes the lines are blurred as to which organization the workers and network of volunteers are working for. Lacking the funding, manpower and clout of organizations like the U.S. bishops’ Catholic Relief Services, these smaller agencies say they are filling a role by serving the victims that larger agencies sometimes miss and are solidifying the church’s presence in Aceh in its response to the disaster. Among the smaller groups are a two-person medical team consisting of U.S. Camillian Father Scott Binet of Milwaukee, Wis., and Charity Sister Leonarda Perini, a registered nurse and Italian missionary who has worked in Indonesia for more than 30 years. Father Binet is the coordinator of the Camillian Task Force (www.CTFmercy.org/), a medical nongovernmental organization that aims to become a “Catholic Doctors Without Borders,” he said.
Working out of Banda Aceh’s Sacred Heart Parish — the only Catholic parish in Aceh province — the pair have traveled throughout the province looking for pockets of refugees in need of medical care. They also are in the process of opening a medical clinic on the parish grounds. Father Binet said he hopes that, through the Camillian Task Force, he can recruit additional medical personnel to work in Aceh. In the aftermath of the tsunamis, a volunteer advance team from Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation preceded Father Binet and Sister Perini to find refugees who had not received any medical care since the disaster. Father Binet said the Indonesian volunteers “knew where to go and knew who to ask in order to find those most desperately in need of medical care.”
On each village visit, Sister Perini makes a point to sit down and talk with refugees. She said their harrowing tales of survival and lost family members make it impossible for her to remain a detached observer. “We sit together, talk together and cry together. Yes, I am a nun; yes I am a medical professional. But I am a human being first. I cannot be the other two without being human,” she told Catholic News Service in late January.
by Stephen Steele
Catholic News Service
Camillian Task Force in Indonesia (IT)
Una bambina di Aceh mangia in un campo-rifugiati improvvisato in Banda Aceh, nella parte settentrionale dell’Isola indonesiana di Sumatra.
La CTF guidata da P. Scott Binet, MD, collabora con l’Ufficio di Risposta d’Emergenza della Conferenza Episcopale Indonesiana e la Caritas, per far fronte al devastante disastro in Aceh, Indonesia.
Il 26 dicembre 2004, un terremoto di grado 9.0 partito dalla costa occidentale dell’Isola di Sumatra in Indonesia, che ha prodotto il tsunami (onde giganti), ha ucciso – secondo l’ultima stima – 150.000 persone.
Lo sforzo della CTF in Indonesia e’ uno dei tre tre campi di lavoro che i Camilliani stanno portando avanti in Asia. Infatti portano soccorso anche alle vittime di Tailandia e India.
Prega per le vittime di questo terribile disastro e per la riuscita di coloro che stanno prestando soccorso.
Fate una donazione ora per aiutare i futuri sforzi della CTF [clicca qui per la donazione]
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Camillian Task Force na Indonésia
Garota de Aceh se alimenta no abrigo do campo de refugiados em Banda Aceh, no norte da ilha de Sumatra, Indonésia.
A CTF chefiada pelo Padre Dr. Scott Binet, médico, vai colaborar com a Agência da Conferência Episcopal para Emergências da Indonésia e com a Caritas para auxiliar no desastre que devastou Aceh.
Em 26 de dezembro de 2004, um terremoto de 9,0 graus da Escala Richter ao largo da costa oeste da ilha de Sumatra, na Indonésia, gerou tsunamis que, pelos últimos cálculos, matou mais de 150 mil pessoas.
A Camillian Task Force da Indonésia é uma das três frentes do trabalho que os Camilianos estão realizando na Ásia. Eles estão ainda ajudando as vítimas na Tailândia e na Índia.
Pedimos suas orações pelas vítimas dessas tragédias e pelo sucesso dos que estão ajudando essas comunidades.
Faça agora sua doação para ajudar as vítimas.
Camillian Task Force na Indonésia
A CTF chefiada pelo Padre Dr. Scott Binet, médico, vai colaborar com a Agência da Conferência Episcopal para Emergências da Indonésia e com a Caritas para auxiliar no desastre que devastou Aceh.
Em 26 de dezembro de 2004, um terremoto de 9,0 graus da Escala Richter ao largo da costa oeste da ilha de Sumatra, na Indonésia, gerou tsunamis que, pelos últimos cálculos, matou mais de 150 mil pessoas.
A Camillian Task Force da Indonésia é uma das três frentes do trabalho que os Camilianos estão realizando na Ásia. Eles estão ainda ajudando as vítimas na Tailândia e na Índia.
Pedimos suas orações pelas vítimas dessas tragédias e pelo sucesso dos que estão ajudando essas comunidades.
Faça agora sua doação para ajudar as vítimas.
CTF Responds to Disaster in Nias
Pictured is a little girl, Putri, who is an orphan and patient of Fr. Scott’s, who is now being operated upon in California through the CTF’s efforts and those of the USNS Mercy, a hospital-ship of the US Navy that came to help Nias in the wake of the earthquake.
On March 29, 2005 an earthquake measuring 8.5 on the Richter scale rocked the already tsunami-affected area of Aceh, Indonesia.
The island of Nias off the northwest coast of Sumatra was most affected by the disaster. Officials estimated the death toll to be in the thousands, and 85% of the buildings on the island were completely destroyed. Once again, however, the outpouring of aid from international agencies was quite impressive. At the time of the earthquake, Father Scott Binet was working at the medical clinic in Banda Aceh that the CTF and the Archdiocese of Medan established in the wake of the December 26th tsunami/earthquake that affected the same region. Together with representatives of the Archdiocese of Medan, the Diocese of Sebolga, and healthcare professionals from both Medan and Jakarta, Indonesia, Father Binet of the CTF will be responding to the disaster in Nias. Please keep this team and those affected by the disaster in your prayers.
CTF Responds to Disaster in Nias
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