In this issue of Carmel Contact:

Prior Provincial's Message

In this issue, Fr Bruce Clark (Prior Provincial) highlights the urgent need for peace in our world by reflecting on Our Lady's message to the 3 children of Fatima. "In the past, we hoped that our elected leaders would uphold and respect the rights and dignity of every person, their own citizens or not. Yet today we seem to be lacking that kind of leadership. We have leaders saying that they can make peace by bombing people until they are totally obliterated!" Fr Bruce says. Pope Leo offers us an example in "speaking for peace, for respect for human dignity and the rights of every person regardless of colour, race or gender. He urges us to speak to each other, to listen to each other, to seek reconciliation with each other, to respect each other".

He continues, "Turning our hearts towards God doesn’t mean turning our backs on others but rather challenges us to see more clearly each sister and brother. Opening our hearts to God means opening our hearts more to each other...As Carmelites we talk about contemplation as the grace given to be able to see others as God sees us. Loved, precious, and cherished by God who is Father to all".

Your gifts lead to a brighter future through

• Our Carmelite Kindergarten run by the Carmelite Sisters where early learning begins for children aged 3 to 5. Over 30 youngsters are in our Kindergarten.
• Our three Carmelite Primary & Junior High Schools with more than 660 children currently enrolled learning language, history, mathematics, geography and more
• Titus Brandsma Boarding House providing 33 boys from remote villages a home-like environment and where they’re able to go to school.
• Saint Magdalene de’ Pazzi Girls’ Dormitory where currently 10 girls live in a safe and supportive environment with the chance to go to school. Later this year, the Boarding House will house 40 girls.
• Community Scholarships giving 28 young adults financial support to undertake tertiary education (college or university), and pursue a career or vocation.
• La Bruna Scholarships enabling Carmelite brothers and sisters to study vocational education programs to support their future ministry activities.

Gift from a bountiful heart

The story of our generous benefactor Ruth Considine through a gift in her will. It was said at her funeral that, ‘a spark of “Nanna Ruth” lives on in every generation’. We believe so does Ruth’s bountiful heart as reflected in her generous gift to support the Carmelites’ work in Australia and Timor-Leste.

From uncertainty to Prayer, Community & Service

The story of one of our young Carmelites, Br Frangelino, on his journey as a Carmelite and student for Ordination - a journey from uncertainty to finding his vocation as a Carmelite. "This life is full of meaning, mission, and hope," he says. You can support our 35 young Carmelites on their journey.

65th anniversary of Whitefriars College

This year, Whitefriars College, Donvale (VIC) is celebrating its 65th anniversary. In 1975 Fr Frank Shortis (founding principal) recalled that first day when students arrived at the College.

This is just a snapshot of what's inside this issue of Carmel Contact.  pdf Download and read the full issue