Grads

Its the time of the year again where we say goodbye to our graduating friends. Celebrated by Father Andrew Hamilton, the graduation mass on 24th november was a bitter sweet affair for the 17 cosduans graduating this december.

Cosdu wishes all the best to our graduants as they close this chapter of life as a student and start a new one in the workforce.

this are some things that our graduants would like to share with us.

Fabian Ooi

I remember dropping by the COSDU booth during Clubs and Societies Day in my first year in university. I also remember attending a couple of Welcome Day masses but I only really started attending COSDU more regularly this year. I wished I had made it a point to start attending much earlier. Then I would get to know all the nice COSDU people much better. The sessions have been most insightful and have made a couple of good points to carry along on the journey that life is. I graduate at the end of the year and return home to begin working life. I am slightly apprehensive about the future challenges but also am very excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Anyway, I wish everyone all the best in their undertakings and hope we'll have the chance to keep in touch as well. God bless.

Hobart Kho

graduation "gra-j&-'wA-sh&n" noun 2a : the award or acceptance of an academic degree or diploma

As usual, the dictionary only focuses on the physical definition of words and neglects its significant attachments.

Awhile ago, I spent some time on a day's retreat with other graduate to-bes of whom a handful have already celebrated their ceremonies. The schedule involved an important period of quiet self-reflection whilst supposedly trudging our own paths diverging from the house. During this time, we were requested to each pick up an object that best symbolized our emotions surrounding graduation. Initially tailing the trail of the majority, I eventually turned the opposite direction to pursue uniqueness somewhat.

Returning to a hearty lunch, we then proceeded to reveal the stories of our show and tell objects. Much to a certain degree of discomfort and disgust of some of my audience, I produced the first object that I stumbled upon ... a seed ... which characterized questionable hygienic properties.

I admit its lack of originality, but every time I think of graduation, I picture an imagery of a toddler picking up his or her first steps. To me, it's just another phase in life ala American Pie's 'the next step'. A phase of life when the opportunities and the whole at large threaten to drown you whilst all you can and have to do is focus on yourself, trying to find the qualities within you to make those baby steps, hopefully finding your place and celebrate silently when you do even when the intimidating world ignores you ... you could 'make it big' and announce your presence with a big bang ... but I don't really hope for that. I, myself, am still currently facing difficulties deciding my next steps amidst the flurry of last minute applications. Then there is the million dollar question of "how am I going to consolidate my studies with what I believe in my religion?" It is not an easy task resolving the possibility of the application of controversial sciences added with the stress of getting re-accustomed to the world as a graduate. Yet, in these moments of seeming chaos, despite the uncertainty of discovering 'my calling in life,' I'm at peace at where I am. Just don't ask me why.

"and whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should" - The Desiderata.

You thought the story ended there didn't you? I just started. The next object that struck me along my path that day was a sign that read 'The Boulevard'. For reasons only eight other individuals will understand, it immediately surfaced memories of my road trip to Gippsland just prior to the retreat. This triggered my hyperactive mind to trace back to older road trips and my C.O.S.D.U. yesteryears. Most overseas students share the whole story of "it was hard leaving home for Melbourne ... leaving friends ... leaving family ... and hardships of so on and so forth”. Mine represents the opposite spectrum of experiences. I had it easy. I came with my cousin and a reasonable bunch of my classmates from home ... some of which I've shared a decade of my life with ... and I was only seventeen then. Furthermore, due to certain dark tales of my history back home, I was overjoyed to break away from that past. It was also these tales that saw my spirituality growing just before I left for Melbourne.

I had hardly arrived for a week when I serendipitously chanced upon Sister Theresa handing out flyers outside St. Francis. Initially, I dismissed the yellow piece of paper shoving it into my pants pocket. I was later 'persuaded' to attend one of their meetings. To say that C.O.S.D.U. was love at first sight for me would be a lie. I admit it was never really the sessions that drew my attention. This may seem slightly blasphemous but I am less attracted to finding God amidst preached words than in observing the often overlooked simplicities in life. A smile. A hug. The embrace of friendship. It was never the place and time that mattered . It was the people ... the very people upholding the essential fundamental, 'family away from home'. These perennial emotions guaranteed my perfect attendance for the past three years or so ... closer to four. That was, is, and always will be why I love C.O.S.D.U.

The older members might remember the drama during my first year when I was given the opportunity to pursue a medical degree under full scholarship in Kuala Lumpur's IMU (International Medical University). I shan't divulge the details that lead to the offer. Suffice to say, I was a lucky boy or so I thought. The details of the reasons for my return to Melbourne and what happened in the interview remained vague for years. I guess its okay for me to confess now. One of the questions the interviewers asked was this:

"What will you do if you don't get this IMU scholarship?"

"Go back to Melbourne. I don't need you," I almost blurted. I could've invented some model answer expressing severe disappointment if I failed to receive the scholarship and that I would persevere in alternative pathways to pursue medicine.

It was here when I committed interview suicide.

What I replied was somewhere along the lines of me being happy where I was in Melbourne and that I appreciated the opportunity but I would be fine if someone else deserving was awarded with the scholarship. The look on their faces was priceless. The lack of enthusiasm and drive surprised them more than me. It was then I knew I had screwed up the interview. I hardly tried to answer the following questions and from that point on, it only went downhill. If my mum who had flown all the way with me that day were to find out what happened in the room, she might have disowned me. Peculiarly, inside, I couldn't help but rejoice silently throughout the whole ordeal. To this day, I can't fully explain such overrule of disappointment, but I knew somewhere within, C.O.S.D.U. played a part. I'm not saying I blame C.O.S.D.U. for that, I'm thanking them. I look back at all my years in Melbourne and I know everything has been as it should be. I'm a firm believer that you feel right inside when you're doing the right thing ... when your're at peace with your actions ... and that's how I know that how I got to where I am now and why it feels right. Many have asked me whether I'm leaving Melbourne for good. For the reasons I have just mentioned, I know it's not my time yet to do so my place is still here in Melbourne ... for now. How about the possibility of me leaving C.O.S.D.U?

Let me digress a little. The last time I met Father Robin Koning, he addressed me as an ex-C.O.S.D.U.an because he knew I was graduating. I was about to respond when Thai took the words out of my mouth for me:

"Once a C.O.S.D.U.an always a C.O.S.D.U.an"

C.O.S.D.U is still where my heart remains.

Some individuals claim that I've done a lot for C.O.S.D.U.

They've got it all wrong.

It's C.O.S.D.U. that has always been there for me.

Deacon Inyoung Cho SJ

On 2nd December, some of the Cosduans attended Inyoung's Ordination to the Diaconate. Together with Inyoung, 2 other Jesuits - Thomas Renshaw and Sacha Bermudez-Goldman - shared the steps they took towards making their decision to follow their calling.

In the words of another Cosduan, this was how their the Ordination mass and their sharing ministered to the congregation.

It was by far one of the most moving mass-es I have ever attended. When Tom shared about how he quit his legal job to respond to a calling, I was truly overwhelmed. When Inyoung shared about how his mum became a Catholic "to understand her son" (I quote), I could feel myself holding back tears. And when I saw Sasha tear throughout the others' speeches, a very moving, touching and undescribable feeling overcame me.

I can't explain the amount of respect and joy I have for these 3 young men, the respect I have for Inyoung's mum (who cried when her son addressed her), who have surrendered their own earthly desires, to obey their Father's will. Their obedience, persistance and their hunger for God -so evident.

Congratulations Deacon Inyoung Cho SJ! Thanks for mentioning Cosdu in your thank you speech. All the best in your future endeavors.

Noticeboard

Short and sweet this week, but extremely interesting:

• Reactions to Saddam Hussein's death sentence

• Statistics on the death penalty world wide

• Displaced, an exhibition of photographs about the displacement felt and observed by Jaqueline Sherry and Georgina Lampe

• 10 ways you can reduce greenhouse gas emissions

• A way to reduce your car's impact on the environment
  

Noticeboard

Last night I decided to watch a short debate on SBS's Dateline between the Greens leader and the parlimentary secretary for environmental issues about the recent reports on global warming.

What was to be a "short debate" turned out to be mind-boggling "He said", "She said", "They said" and I was left feeling incredibly confused about the whole global warming thing. I may not support the government in the way the issue has been handled but pointing accusing fingers about what was said or not said, what was done or not done isn't helping the situation.

So this week on the noticeboard, we've got a simple overview on global warming: The facts on global warming, what the goverment's nuclear power proposal is all about and what we can do about it (it's simple, really).

The article on nuclear power appeared in The Big Issue and is rather long and a bit hard to get through, but I encourage you to try your best and read it because it gives an excellent insight on what nuclear power is all about, the pros and cons and why we should be concerned.

Don't forget too that this Saturday at 1pm is Walk Against Warming and if you're still quite clueless about global warming and the issues surrounding it, this is an excellent and fun way to learn a bit more.

The noticeboard will continue to be updated until the beginning of December before I go back for my long-deserved break and I'll restart once I'm back in the continent.

:)

Noticeboard

On the noticeboard this week:

• The war worth fighting for is The War on Want
  

• Who's to blame? The North Korean leaders or the people who are desperately hungry?

• How the Homeless World Cup went

• In anticipation of the worst drought in Australia
  

And also some events to look forward to:

• October 27: National Bandana Day, raising funds for young people with cancer

• November 4: Walk Against Warming
  

Father Robin Koning

Two weeks ago, we had the very good opportunity to hear Father Robin Koning of the Jesuit Theological College speak at a session regarding discerning God's Word in the Bible. He was a thoroughly humorous and engaging speaker who delivered the topic brilliantly answered our quires concisely.

His profile on the Jesuit website featured this (last updated March 2005):

Robin Koning SJ, who spent some years at Balgo, has just been awarded a Doctorate for his work on the relationship between culture and theology. Robin will return to Australia in the year and will maintain his connections with indigenous ministry, while based at Jesuit Theological College.

Robin Koning's doctoral thesis focused on the work of anthropologist Clifford Geertz. Geertz' work has been influential in encouraging us to explore the important role that symbols have in the making of culture. This approach has interested many theologians, who are fascinated by the play of symbols in faith and theology. Robin brought to his thesis his personal experience of living within indigenous cultures and also a keen interest in Bernard Lonergan, the Jesuit philosopher whose approach he compares and ultimately prefers to that of Geertz.

Further piqued by one more burning question about the topic, he again kindly provided me with a thoroughly satisfying reply that has spurred me on to continue deeper research into understanding the work of God. With his permission, the question and answer has been reproduced here.

Question:

In the context of discerning God's Word in examples in the Bible, Jesus repudiated some traditions and affirmed others. In this aspect he acted as a check and balance in the religious order at that point of time. Does the Catholic Church in the present time have a mechanism of check and balance. If there isn't, should there be one?

Answer:

Firstly, Jesus of course did far more than provide checks and balances for the Jewish religious system - he completely revamped it by completely fulfilling it, bringing it to completion and fullness and healing. Thus, the Temple, which was the focal point of Israelite worship, was replaced by his very body (Jn 2:19-21); the Passover meal, the high point of Israelite religious life, was transformed into the Lord's supper; and the 12 apostles were established as the foundation of the new Jerusalem and the ones who are to judge the twelve tribes of Israel (Rev 21:14; Mt 19:28).

So it is a mistake to presume that all aspects of the people of God of the Old Testament will necessarily be aspects of the people of God, the Church, of the new covenant. Of course, there are numerous parallels. But there is also a very fundamental difference - the Law and the old Israel were provisional, always looking forward to fulfillment in a different, new reality, as part of the new creation. That new reality, that new creation, has been established by Christ, by his life, death and resurrection, and part of that new reality is his establishment of a community who would continue to be his presence in the world, his Body.

Now, however sinful that Church will always be, Jesus made various promises that it could not go astray in ways which mean it was not a sure source of God's grace and truth. For example, "the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. " (Mt 16:18); "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth." ( Jn. 16:13); "Whoever listens to you listens to me, and whoever rejects you rejects me." (Lk. 10:16) Moreover, St Paul confirms this when he speaks of the Church as the pillar of truth: "the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and bulwark of the truth." (1Tim. 3:15)

So ultimately the checks and balances remain the same - Jesus himself, and his promises and the assurance of his word. He has not set up another provisional entity, like the people of Israel - he has established the new and definitive covenant with a new and definitive Israel. And out of his love and desire for all to be saved, he has established this new Israel with guarantees and promises of his protection and guidance so that, in all that is essential the faith, essential to the salvation of people, it cannot go astray.

In relation to checks and balances within the church, I would suggest that in one way there cannot be institutionalised checks and balances for once anything is institutionalised, on a human level, it is itself open to corruption and misdirection. The checks and balances and challenges to the Church in its human dimension are provided by prophetic voices, and the Church has always been blessed with these – both people who speak out strongly, even to the highest authorities in the Church (eg St Catherine of Siena challenging the Pope, at that time resident in Avignon in France that is was time to return to where he should be, in Rome), or by their saintly lives and who they are (eg the constant challenge to structures of the church by those who live a very real and deep poverty - St Francis, Mother Teresa). Sometimes these checks and balances are in the highest authority themselves - eg Pope John XXIII challenging the Roman curia, who thought he would just be a caretaker Pope and would do very little, by calling a Council of the Church which brought about major changes, namely the Second Vatican Council.

Within the Catholic Church, there are also balances at structural levels - the basic hierarchical structure (priests, bishops, cardinals, pope etc) and the 'charismatic' structure (religious orders, with their own communities, rules, and often doing outreach and more missionary work, and therefore having a certain dynamism). Also the many new ecclesial movements - charismatic movement, Cursillo, Neo-catechumenal community, Christian Life Communities, Emmanuel, Sant' Egidio... - all are inspired by the Spirit at particular times to be a dynamic and missionary element in the church.

Anyway, that's enough for now. But I think the key point is that the Church is not provisional. Of course, its earthly structures will pass away at the Second Coming when all is completely fulfilled, but even then, the Church as the people of God will be praising God forever in heaven.

Hope this helps.

In Christ

Fr Robin

Inyoung's Ordination to the Diaconate

As a follow up to the email sent out by Ross last week regarding the invitation by the Rector and Community of the Jesuit Theological College for Cosduans to attend the ordination of Inyoung Cho to the Diaconate on 2 December 2006, please remember to RSVP by 27 November 2006.

The details are as follows:
Date: 2 December 2006
Venue: Immaculate Conception Church
354 Burwood Road
Hawthorn VIC 3122
Time: 10 am

Please RSVP to Danielle Mann at jtc@jtc.edu.au by 27 November 2006 to indicate your attendance.

Noticeboard

The noticeboard was actually updated a little earlier this week (Wednesday instead of the usual Thursday/Friday) to coincide with Anti-Poverty Week and Mission Sunday this weekend.

Check it out and please remember to still be wise with water.

Noticeboard

The noticeboard this week is dedicated to environmental issues, 13th October International Water Week and a day for Reduction of Natural disasters.

Aside from environmental issues, the noticeboard also has an article about the recently murdered Russian journalist. She isn't the first journalist to speak out against the government and to pay with her life.

Noticeboard

On the noticeboard this week:

• The situation in Darfur is worsening with women being one of the main targets

• Gun control and the lack of it, a special report by Amnesty International

• Revealing the World: a collection of 128 pages of the best photojournalism...and only $20! Find out how to get your copy from the noticeboard.

Also, this coming Thursday, 12th October 2006, there will be a lecture entitled Stewardship: Handling God's Creation Responsibly by Bishop Chirstopher Toohey at the Cardinal Knox Centre in East Melbourne. I will be going for this lecture and anyone's more than welcome to join me. For more information, refer to the noticeboard.

COSDU on Friday, 29th of September 2006

Hey COSDU-ans,

How are the holidays so far? Some of us have assignments to start, finish up etc. Some of us still have to work and some of us don't have holidays. COSDU is technically on holiday as well, which is why there wasn't any session last week. HOWEVER, we're going to snap out of the holiday mood a bit early to bring you peeps something that might help you end the holidays without feeling too stress out and hopefully high in spirits. It's just a simple thing that all of us can do….sing….

This Friday, we're please to have Fr. Wahid Riad who is from the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Center of Melbourne and also the Parish Priest of St.Augustine. He will be coming in to talk about Praise and Worship and other charismatic means of prayer. He will also shed some light on "speaking in tongues". All in all, it's going to be a fun session with Praise and Worship singing PLUS an informative one for those who are wondering how charismatic prayer came about and its impact on Christians. Please feel free to bring as many questions as you like to ask Fr. Wahid for he really wants to address any issue or questions or doubts that you might have on charismatic stuff during the Questions and Answer timeslot. MOST of all, do bring yourself, your friends, family or anyone to have a great time...forgetting the world and just sing your heart out. Our musicians have been working extra hard to make this a great night, so please come and join us :)

Title: Charismatic prayer...'Experience it'
Day and Date: Friday, 29th September 2006
Time: 6.30 PM
Venue: West Hall, St. Mary's College

Jump Ball!

Thank you one and all for making Sports Day 2006 a roaring success. We were very fortunate to be blessed with excellent weather; under cloudless blue skies of Albert Park, we basked in the gentle sunshine while caressed by the refreshing cool breeze. From 10am to 2pm yesterday, we ardently played Captain's Ball, Human Fussball and a variation of Poison Ball with the use of water bombs.

(Click here to view the rest of the video clips.)

Grouped into four coloured team of about eight, everyone displayed remarkable sportsmanship sharpened by a cutting competitive edge while utterly immersed in serious fun. In meting out their wits and skills in the final round of Captain's Ball, the two remaining teams fought an intensely close fight.

A worthy mention of adroit performance was the way in which three girls from the yellow team successfully maneuvered around and under the menacing members of the black team. With the towering Ramesh closing in on Amelia, she quickly passed the ball to Patricia who in turn safely delivered it to Captain Jean right under the nose of Ramesh.

Apparently, its not always about aiming high. Although the black team eventually emerged as the overall champion, everyone was truly a winner in their own right. Humanfuss ball involved the team members rigidly lined up across the playing field. Confined within their own lines, team members can influence the direction of the ball only by kicking with their legs, while being linked arm to arm.

To replenish our energy, we were treated to a barbeque buffet of sizzling sausages and chicken wings - it was pretty much all-you-can-eat. With that, we have officially launched ourselves into the well-deserved two week Spring Break. Whether or not you'll be spending most of your time preparing for the rest of the semester, or indulging in wild abandonment, Cosdu wishes you the best as we all strive towards the last lap of the academic year under the guidance and blessing of God our Father.

Cosdu Sports Day 2006!

Annually, Cosduans come together to enjoy a day of fit and healthy fellowship over sports and games in green stately victorian parks.

For just $5, you'll be treated to bright and cheery day of competitive fun coupled with a BBQ lunch at Albert Park.

There is absolutely no better way to kick start the spring break!

Date: Saturday, 16 September 2006
Meeting Time: 9am
Meeting Place: Nike Melbourne (Corner of Bourke & Swanston Street)
Mode of Transport: Tram 96 (heading towards Docklands)
(Please have your day ticket ready)

Other details:

Kindly come in your sports shoes and specified team colour. Your team leaders will be contacting you with more details by Thursday night. If you have not been contacted, please call Bryant at 0402816968. For any other enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact either Bryant or Jonathan (0402639152).

If you are unable to locate Nike Melbourne, do contact Jean (0431431097 - Optus Prepaid), Celine (0423907682) or Ramesh (0433272341 - Three) for directions.

Also, do bring along $5 is you have not already paid, and a spare change of clothes

To futher entice you to come along, here are some pictures from previous sports days to whet your competitive appetite for what's instored.

A video clip of the triumphant team victoriously relishing their well-earned reward.

Noticeboard

On the noticeboard this week:

• The Homeless World Cup. Where, when, and most importantly...what???
• 30th September: Peruvian Festival
• From fear to hope: A movie review on Scared Sacred (currently playing at Nova and other selected cinemas)
  

Noticeboard

On the noticeboard this week:

• Amnesty International looks into the dealth penalty for the entire 2005 year.
• No understanding at any time: The Indonesian government's decision to execute 4 drug mules who appeal to the high court
• Support for Sudanese children in school
• An update on Sudan
  

Baptism of Janan Michael Lee

There's something beautiful about watching a baptism. Watching someone emerge into the water, and come out, renewed in the Lord. Janan was that someone today, and he sure came out, with a big radient smile, I couldn't help but smile through the mass, feeling so overwhelmed that someone was proclaiming Jesus as His Lord.

- Jean

Presided by Father Peter Collins, Janan's Baptism took place last Friday at St Carthages' Parish. With everyone decked out more formally than usual and both spiritually and mentally prepared to celebrate the baptism and confirmation of Janan, St Carthage's was effervescing with reverential gaiety.

Father Peter Collins reminded Janan and those witnessing the significant moment that what is more significant is how we henceforth live out our covenent with the Lord. The Christian life is not meant to be obscured in solitude, but shared, deepened and strengthened in the faith community. Therefore even as his sponsor, Felicia, strives to mentor Janan in his spiritual maturation, as the community of believers, Cosduans all share in the burden as well as in the joy of Janan's and each other's growth.



Click here to see the rest of the photos.

Noticeboard

On the noticeboard this week, you'll find a few articles on Fair Trade to coincide with our talk on Fair Trade on the 8th of September.

Also, How Poverty is Measured and the forgotten genocide in Sudan.

Festival of Nations 2006 is over!

A very big thank you to one and all for making this annual event yet another success for Cosdu. We are very grateful to veteran Cosduans for their valuable advice and expertise as well as to the brave novice ones for fearlessly volunteering their services. Over and above all that, we have benefited in small and large ways from which all Cosduans have helped out, including the provision of crockery and utensils and all your prayers and support.

If you were unable to join us even at the 2nd day, you can still relive the memorable experience through these photos! Enjoy!

Festival of Nations 2006

Today was the first day of Festival of Nations 2006. We had a great time selling fried wantons, pulot hitam and mua chee; all sumptuous traditional food. North court was buzzing with performances, curious onlookers and hungry students. The Cosdu Stall enjoyed a bustling and consistent patronage throughout the mid day break.

If you missed out on the activities today, please do drop by anytime tomorrow between 12 noon to 2pm to join in the rousing crowd in soaking in the festive atmosphere. And while you're at it, please recommend the Cosdu Stall to all your friends.

The money we're raising will be used to subsidise the cost of Easter Camp 2007, so please do support our worthy cause!

Noticeboard

The noticeboard this week will be dedicated to migrants and asylum seekers in Australia simply because the 25th of August is World Migrant day.

Also, don't forget that the 25th is also Daffodil Day so if you're out and about in the city on Friday, make sure you buy a daffodil (it's a flower, in case you're wondering...) and/or a daffodil pin. All proceeds go to the Cancer Council.

We're in Week 5!

Welcome to the start of Week 5, Semester 2, 2006. It is truly incredibly how time flies. We hope that you've settled into the weekly routine of lectures, tutorials and have braced yourself for the onslaught of assignments. And before you know it, we'll be enjoying the Summer Break!

To keep us spiritually and socially balanced, we hope that you'll continue to benefit from the programme we've planned for the rest of Semester 2. Click here for a sneak preview of the exciting happenings for the following sessions.

Perhaps you've noticed the theme of Social Justice that launched us into Semester 2. Father Bernie Lane, ministering youths in Peru, reminded us that Social Justice and outreach are hallmarks of disciples of Jesus.

Referring to Mark 1: 14, John 8:31 and Luke 1:35, Father Bernie Lane reminded us that Christian discipleship is a deliberate choice that we have to consciously act on everyday so that we will know what is required of us, "to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8)

The biblically grounded session by Father Bernie lane was aptly followed by the viewing of I Know I'm Not Alone which captures Michael Franti's efforts in foregrounding the basic human desire for peace and security amidst political and military chaos. The theme song is available for download at the website.

In preparation of the baptism of Janan on 1st September, this Friday Sister Theresa will lead us in a session of deeper understanding of the Apostle's Creed as well as a deeper appreciation of our own confirmation as we reflect on what it means to us.

So please set aside your Friday evenings and join us for an enriching time of fellowship and food (at the ensuing dinners).

Noticeboard Updated

On the noticeboard this week:

• Taxi drivers, a cricket player and racism... What's the link?

• 25th August is World Migration Day. What's the current attitude towards refugees?

• Embryonic stem cell research: What's the big issue?

• The UN'S take on Aboriginal housing

• School girls, the latests pawns in the Sri Lanka conflict
  

The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin

This Tuesday (15th August) is a day of obligation as the Church will be celebrating the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary also known as The Feast of the Assumption.

What does Holy day of Obligation mean?

Canon 1247 of the Code of Canon Law :Holy day of obligations are the days on which the faithful are required to participate in the Mass and abstain from such work or business that would inhibit the worship to be given to God, the Joy proper to the Lord's Day, or the due relaxation of mind and body.

What is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary?
Newadvent.org, a catholic website says that this feast day has two objectives (1) the happy departure of Mary from this life; (2) the assumption of her body into heaven.

For your convenience, I have consolidated the Mass Times of Churches for this event.

1) St.Francis Church, Lonsdale Street

7.30am, 8.00am, 10am, 11.00am, 12.00noon, 1.00pm, 4.30pm, 5.30pm & 6.30pm

2) St. Patrick's Cathedral

7.00am, 8.00am, 1.00pm, 6.00pm, 7.30pm(Farewell Mass for and by Bishop Mark)

3) St.Augustine's Church, Bourke Street

12.05pm, 1.05pm, 6.00pm

4) St.Ambrose Church, Brunswick

10.00am, 7.30pm

5) Newman College Chapel, Swanston Street(beside St.Mary's College)

8.00am, 12 noon

6) St. Carthages Church, Royal Parade

NO MASS.


Have a blessed week ahead

Your Liturgy Coordinator,

Ramesh Richards

A Sign for Times

Greetings from your Social Justice minister.

In order to help our members be more aware of what's happening in the outside world, we now have a brand new noticeboard conveniently situated in the Chaplaincy's kitchen (yes, we can help ourselves with the coffee and tea but please don't go crazy) in Melbourne University's Health Services building.

This board, as mentioned previously, will be highlighting not just happenings in the world but also justice and peace issues that often get lost in all the media hype. Also, we will be featuring some volunteer jobs available for those who have always wanted to get into some volunteer work.

Every Friday afternoon, this board will be updated with news articles and images of the week's happenings, hot issues in the community and advertisements from local and international sources.

So you are all more than welcome to get a cuppa and gaze lovingly at the board. Myself included.

Among this week's many postings, we will be covering the war in Lebanon and Israel, free expression for people with disabilities, Mel Gibson's anti-Semitic remarks, volunteer jobs available around Melbourne and an uber-cool gift shop on Victoria Street.

So make sure you regularly check our noticeboard starting this Friday(11th August) to keep up with the times!

COSDU's GamIntroduSions this FRIDAY, 4th of August :)

For most of us, uni is in its second week! Tutorials have officially started and we hope you're adjusting to the new semester well. :)

Most of you were present at last week's Welcome Mass, Games and Dinner which was a blast. Thank you all for your presence that evening! Things went by so quickly that some of you probably didn't get a chance to fully understand what we do here at COSDU. Well, you shan't be of ignorance any longer for we present to you:

"GamIntroduSions" ...A night of Games, Introduction to COSDU and the line up of COSDU Sessions throughout the semester :)

Venue: West Hall, St. Mary's College
Day and Date: Friday, 4th August 2006
Time: 6.30 PM

Yup, we will playing more games, introducing COSDU more formally as well as informing you of what COSDU has lined up for you for the rest of this semester! Its going to be a blast, so do come along and bring your friends too. As the saying goes, "THE MORE THE MERRIER" and we are all very merry people :)

Oh yes, an IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT for all you CATHOLICS!! Please TAKE NOTE!

Day of Obligation: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Day and Date: Tuesday, 15th of August 2006

Ramesh, the liturgy minister has guaranteed that Catholic churches in Melbourne are having masses on the day itself. So, please find time to attend mass at churches of your convenience. For more info on churches around Melbourne, do visit http://cosdu.blogspot.com and click on the "Mass Times Around Melbourne" link :)

LASTLY, BIBLE STUDY is still being held EVERY MONDAY, from 1.15 PM to 2 PM. Feel free to bring along your lunches :)

Clubs & Societies Day

A big thank you to all those who helped out at yesterday's Clubs & Societies Day! We really had loads of fun telling others about Cosdu. We managed to secure a good location for our booth and had it adorned with helium-filled balloons, banners, photographs, and of course big grins and warm friendly Cosduans. Some of us ventured out in pairs distributing flyers and invitation cards while others ernestly engaged with new university students visiting our booth. Wondering what happened to the helium after we packed up?

If you're a new visitor to this site, please take some time to browse through pictures and pages of our past activities. As a reminder, please note that Welcome Mass will be held at 6.30pm on Friday, 28th July 2006 at St Carthage's. We will then proceed to West Hall (in St. Mary's College) for a time of fun and fellowship as well as a lovingly prepared home-cooked dinner.

If you are unsure where St Carthages' is (along Royal Parade), please meet us at 5.45pm at Sidney Myer Asia Centre.

Looking foward to seeing you soon.

Flash from the Past

Although this website informs us of the lastest happenings in Cosdu, its also a place where we can archive and remember past events. The older members especially, will have lot to reminisce. Click on the above pictures to get to the photo album of its set.

Do also check out pictures of Sports Day 2004 here. Below is a video clip of the triumphant team victoriously relishing their well-earned reward.

New Beginnings

Yesterday, Cosdu celebrated the graduation of Thereis, Celeste, Christine & Denning as well as the birthdays of those born in June, namely Adrian, Austin, Jean, Ramesh and even Thai & Nicole who are away.

For these Cosduans, the blessings they received during Mass mark new and exciting beginnings as they cross personal mile stones journeyed with Cosdu.

Graduating from a music programme with the University of Melbourne, Christine reflects.

"I have too many memories of Cosdu. I joined in July 2002, quietly sneaking into Welcome Mass and sitting at a corner, not really wanting to make much contact. But after the fatal question of 'so what do you study?' I found myself hurled into playing the keyboard for masses. The rest as they say, is history.

I've made some of the most significant friendships in Cosdu. I leave Melbourne taking with me all the memories and experiences of Cosdu and of university life.

Now I can look forward to the future and I just can't wait."

Denning has just concluded his second degree in Melbourne. He indulges us with his wealth of experience and fond memories.

"I have been in Cosdu for about 6 years now and I have seen many transitions in leadership roles and have seen how much Cosdu has grown from the first time i joined in 2000. During my time here, I've made lots of new friends and rekindle old friendships too.

I was once a newbie, a stranger at first but I soon felt at home. Everyone was warm and friendly. They warmly invited me into their arms even though I was the youngest among them and was not studying at the University of Melbourne.

Then, I began to realise that this group does not only focus on catholicism but it also strived to make one feel at home when they are so far apart from their parents, friends and loved ones. I also realised how significant Cosdu's motto is - 'A Home away from Home, Growing together in Christ' - to me.

I like how Cosdu continues to welcome and embrace old and new face regardless of their religion and way of life. I feel a bond in each time I attend the Cosdu sessions or when I bump into fellow Cosduans at the university. The laughter and smiles I share with them never fails to lift my spirits.

Even farewells after graduation are not forever as "alumni members" continue to keep in touch and visit each other notibly in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.

As for now, I have graduated from the University of Melbourne with my second degree and I will treasure and relish all the lasting memories

I am heavy-hearted to leave the Cosdu family including Sister Theresa and Sister Carol who have guided me through challenging times.

Everyone has contributed to my personal growth as a Cosdu member. I hope that my presence too has enriched this group and has provided Cosdu with another branch to bear fruits.

I am nervous about facing the real world now that I've graduated. I have been so used to the student life of studying and partying. Now, I have to brace myself for another set of challenges which I hope will bring me more fun and new friends. Indeed, graduation is not simply a closure, rather it is an opening of another door for more of God's blessings as I continue to share my God-given talents with whoever I meet.

I hope that new members in years to come will be ministered by what I have shared here. The only advice I can give to the newbies is to make full use of your university life and your time in Cosdu and to "Give it a Go!" We only pass through this way once."

Graduation Mass on the 23rd of June 2006

Hello Everybody,

I do hope everybody is coping well with exams. Remember that God is always around and there for us, we just have to CALL (pray) OUT.

For the most of us, our exams are drawing to a close in about a week's time. For the guys, the WORLD CUP can be fully enjoyed and sleep can be forgotten. For the girls, well the end-of-financial year sales are everywhere, so the holidays sound great, no?

BUT, before all that, we must CELEBRATE a special occasion in:

COSDU Graduation Mass
Venue: St. Carthages
Date: 23rd of June 2006
Time: 5.30 PM (Music Practice) and 6.30 PM (Mass Proper)

So YES, do come along everybody, enjoy the end-of-exams and celebrate this graduation mass!. As of now, COSDU's excellent website will post notices on upcoming sessions , events and everything under the COSDU sun. And all of us living under our proud COSDU sun can add more life to it by linking our own blogs and stuff to COSDU's blog. Now isn't that lovely. So yes, do leave a comment and we'll hook you up.

Anyways, GOOD LUCK everyone for the remaining papers!

Exam Mass, Pentecost and the Holy Spirit

Cosdu met formally for the last time at Exam Mass yesterday. Do remember to keep each other in prayer as we slog through these intense days. Thanks to Hobart and Ross, the exam schedule for all Cosduans has been compiled for the month of June to assist us in covering over each other in prayer.

At Mass yesterday, we also received a Gift of the Holy Spirit and a Fruit of the Holy Spirit combined into one winged-heart. "What has this got to do with Pentecost? What's Pentecost?" some might wonder.

Annually, Pentecost is celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday. Pentecost commemorates the awesome outpouring of the Holy Spirit as Acts Chapter 2 describes:

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language.

Some bible scholars have suggested that Pentecost was God's reversal of the Tower of Babel; the confusion of tongues was used to divide people when they came together in arrogance and pride to build a tower to reach heaven, while the speaking tongues was used to unite people when they gathered according to God's intended purposes.

Looking beyond the sensations (and differing opinions of speaking in tongues), the main learning point for everyone is to have imbue in themselves the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and the Fruits of the Holy Spirit that came with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

The 7 Gifts of the Holy Spirit include wisdom, understanding, right judgment, courage, knowledge, reverence & wonder and awe in God's presence.

The 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit include love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control and right relationships.

On the winged-heart, the bold in black points to a Gift of the Holy Spirit and the italics in red denotes a Fruit of the Holy Spirit. Some Cosduans have wondered if the binary of the Gift and Fruit they picked up signifies the virtues they lack or indicates virtues blessed upon them. Other Cosduans have marveled at how they have picked up the same Gift and/or Fruit year after year. Whatever the case, let the Godly characteristics be a blessing to yourself and to others around you as you emulate these Gifts and Fruits.

Updates on this blog might not be as frequent during the Winter Break, but please do check back once in a while, or better yet, subscribe to this blog in the sidebar or add it to your feed reader.

Stay close to God and all the best for the coming exams!

COSDU

Annual General Meeting - Elections

The Verdict:

Executive Committee
President - Jean
Vice President - Bryant
Secretary - Wynnie
Treasurer - Maria

Non-Executive Committee
Sessions Coordinator - Ming Yin
Liturgy - Ramesh
Social Activities - Jonathan
Public Relations - Ross
Social Justice - Celine
Music Director - Denning

The newly elected Cosdu Committee are revving and ready to go. With a good mix of girls and guys, older members and newbies, the 2006/2007 Committee boast new vigour and precious wisdom. Each member has been elected aaccording their expertise and the confidence they have in themselves.

To name a few, Ming Yin can draw on her wealth of experience from the previous committees she has served in, Ramesh has served as an altar boy for a substantial number of years in his church in Malaysia, Celine has carved a career out of her heart for the less fortunate and Denning has a intuitive sense for orchestrating moving praise and worship sessions. Jonathan and Ross have a keen interest in making people feel comfortable and uninhibited. They have also promised to boost the level of fun and fellowship in Cosdu, as Jonathan said, "I have a vision... for Cosdu".

Indeed each member of the committee does.

With continued prayer, dedication and enthusiasm, meaningful activities and fulfilling experiences await each Cosduan in Semester 2 2006.

Felicia's Presidential Closure Speech

(Click here for continuation)

Jean's Presidential Acceptance Speech




There's no better way for Felicia to commemorate the closure of her service as President than to celebrate her 21st birthday with Cosdu. So here's wishing Felicia a very Happy Birthday and many happy returns!

COSDU mentioned in The Age

A small mention, but a mention nonetheless.

Searching for meaning? To the uninitiated or for those who have stumbled upon this site, feel free to drop by the weekly COSDU Sessions held during semester periods on Fridays at 6.30pm. Contact the Publicity IC via the email provided on this website to find out more about the venue and programme of upcoming activities.

Weekly Bible Sharing also takes place on Mondays from 1-2pm at the Chaplaincy. Please note that Chaplaincy is located together with the University Health Services located on the corner of Cardigan Street and Argyle Place North in Carlton. From the University Campus, walk down Grattan St and turn right down Cardigan St, the Health Service is at the end of the first block on the left side of the street, facing the park. The walk takes about ten minutes.

Andrian's Easter Camp Recount

Andrian provides a more boisterous account of the happenings of the Easter Camp.

Had another session after breakfast with Sister Theresa leading us. She made us take a postcard picture of a bunch of National Geographic portraits and made us share a painful /sad/angry experience with another person while trying to relate to the picture. I believed I had a good sharing session with Janen. I was humbled with the amount of detail he actually entrusted me with.

from Andrian's blog

UPDATE:
To access Andrian's photos (including the official group photo), please click here and enter the password "cosdu"

Jean's Easter Camp Reflection

Jean relishes her first opportunity to lead the praise and worship sessions during Easter Camp and recounts the testimonies shared by her friends.

One of the most special things for me was perhaps, the chance to actually lead "praise and worship" session. Seriously, it was just amazing. I sang, I prayed between songs, I gave thanks. I called God. I did it all in the presence of everyone in the camp. I knew that God's Spirit was with me, and I trusted him to guide me to say the right words. And he did.

from Jean's blog

William's Easter Camp Recount

William briefly recalls the Easter Camp in retrospect of his first semester as a first year student.

Cosdu camp was 3 days from 18th to 20th April, in contrast to the OCF camp, there were only 32 people, but it was more comfortable for me I guesss. Sessions were good - more interactive, more sharing. Games were good, the camp site was good, food was good. Sister Theresa was good, people were good. Overall, Cosdu camp > OCF camp for me (in no way insulting OCF).

from William's blog

Denning's Easter Camp Reflection

Denning writes about how the camp theme "Beyond the Tomb into the Light" has become real to him.

I came not to be amongst friends but to be with My Lord. He wanted to share with me and everyone else what he had learnt from His Father and was excited to tell us all especially those who have an open heart as he knows his message will not be wasted but to be treasured. He too walked amongst of us but not in spirit form but in physical form. There were many angels working his ministry of love, happiness and care to everyone else.

from Denning's blog

Jonathan's Easter Camp Reflection

Jonathan writes about his Easter Camp experience as an organiser, and what the experience means to him.

i realised just how much being in the camp committee had helped me grow as a person. i can see how different i am now as compared to last year. i can't say that i was the most active cosdu member last year, nor was i the most approachable guy. but from this camp, i realised just how much i have opened myself up to the people around me.

from Jonathan's blog

Easter Camp 2006

Easter Camp is the highlight activity of Cosdu each year. In 2006 it took place from the 18th to 20th of April at the Rowallan Recreation and Adventure Camp. The theme was aptly decided as "Beyond the Tomb into the Light".

This post serves as a communal point of reflection for everyone. It is an opportunity for all participants of the camp to share our personal testimonies. During her session, Sister Theresa reminded us that "amidst the words the WORD appears". This sharing will also be a strong encouragement to the camp committee and subsequent camp committees to follow.

Therefore let our sharing bless and encourage others as we strive towards the end of this semester. To add to the sharing, just post a comment in this post.

Wynnie's Photos

Hobart and Jean's Photos

Battle of the Pop Bands

The camp committee came up with the ingenius idea of naming the teams according to different pop groups. The teams then had to present a song by that pop group in any creative way they wanted.

Here we see West Life projecting a common camp predicament - constipation, and the subseqeuent relief laxative brings. Michael Learns to Rock dedicated the ballad of unrequited love (in cheesy boyband fashion) to a random victim video-ing the act. the honoured victim was clearly trumatized and shaken. *Disclaimer: Not for the nauseous or faint hearted.

Back Street Boys and The Spice Girls collaborated to produce a polished MTV, while N' Sync were still trying to synchronize their vocal talents.

Calling all those with video clips of the other Pop Bands: Please create a youtube account, if you don't have one already, and tag the upload as COSDU.



Where's Life


Michael Learning to Rock


N' Sync Auditions

Scavenger Hunt

This Scavenger Hunt was carried out on the 12th of March 2006 with a dual purpose; to orientate new Cosdu members to the locations of various churches in Melbourne, and for everyone to get to know each other better as we pitted our wits against each other while racing against the clock.

Like in most Orientation-ish activities, the groups were required to perform interesting tasks in order to obtain our clues.

It happened to be a scorching hot summer day with temperatures soaring up to 36 degree celcius. Nonetheless we all had a great time and were sufficiently rewarded with a sizzling barbie waiting for us at the picturesque final destination.

COSDU Committees

2010-2011
President Jonathan Au
Vice President Renee Siu
Secretary Kershia Tan
Treasurer Theodore Wuisan
Social Justice Coordinator Jessica Tan
Sessions Coordinator Kimberley Ngu
Liturgy Coordinator Anastasia Agusto
Music Coordinator Alphonsus Tan
Publicity Coordinator Florence Santana
Social Activities Coordinator Felicia Tang

2009-2010
President Jessica Tan
Vice President Gracie Ng
Secretary Sara Kang
Treasurer Yanuar Kurniawan
Social Justice Coordinator Ooi Jian Sheng
Sessions Coordinator Donna Yeo
Liturgy Coordinator Matthew Kwok
Music Coordinator Jonathan Au
Publicity Coordinator Audrey Teh
Social Activities Coordinator Giovanni Rinaldi

2008-2009
President Amanda Johan
Vice President Jessica Tan
Secretary Donna Yeo
Treasurer William Lim
Social Justice Coordinator Anastasia Agusto
Sessions Coordinator Angela Liew
Liturgy Coordinator Janan Lee
Music Coordinator Bernice Lim
Publicity Coordinator Audrey Teh
Social Activities Coordinator Hilary Heah

Sister Theresa Ryan steps down. Sister Delma Lamb becomes International Students' Chaplain.

2007-2008
President Ramesh Richards
Vice President Anastasia Agusto
Secretary Amanda Johan
Treasurer Jessica Tan
Sessions Coordinator Janan Lee
Liturgy Coordinator Celina Ma
Music Coordinator Annette Lee
Social Activities Coordinator Ooi Jian Sheng
Publicity Coordinator Nicole Tan
Social Justice Coordinator Lim E Wei

2006-2007
President Jean Cheng
Vice President Bryant Ting
Secretary Wynnie Kwok
Treasurer Maria Choong
Sessions Lin Ming Yin
Liturgy Ramesh Richards
Social Justice Celine Yong
Music Denning Rajt
Public Relations Ross Steward
Social Activities Jonathan Khoo

2005-2006
President Felicia Lin
Vice President Jason Kang
Secretary Sean Gomes
Treasurer Diane Bong
Sessions Christine Yong
Liturgy Nicholas Pang
Social Justice Celeste
Music Melissa Yeo
Public Relations Hobart Kho
Social Activities Yeo Wi Lian

2004-2005
President Sarah Lam
Vice President Noel Hidalgo Tan
Secretary Sean Gomes Lee
Treasurer Austin Leong
Sessions Thai Hong
Liturgy Eric Liew
Social Justice Romila Kulenthran
Music Christine Yong
Publicity Diane Bong
Food Madeleine Hii

2003-2004
President Maria Lydia Prasetio
Vice President Lin Ming Yin
Secretary Sarah Lam
Treasurer Diana Ayu Prasetio
Sessions Jason Kang
Liturgy Sin Su Li
Social Justice Felicia Lin
Music Christine Yong
Publicity Keith Tan Hung
Food Florence Tee

2002-2003
President Alison Lee
Vice President Adrian Fann
Secretary Maria Lydia Prasetio
Treasurer Michelle Poh
Sessions Kenneth Pinto
Liturgy Lin Ming Yin
Social Justice Jason Kang
Music Mariska Gunario
Publicity Ricky Kurniawan
Food Goh Sue Lyn

Sister Carol Hogan steps down. Sister Theresa Ryan becomes International Students' Chaplain.

2001-2002
President Justin Wong
Vice President Maria Suyanto
Secretary Pamela Khoo
Treasurer Deanna Yong
Sessions Terence Kesavan
Liturgy Adrian Fann
Social Justice Pauline
Music Belinda Sun
Publicity and Liasion (1) Pauline Lai
Publicity and Liasion (2) Alfred
Food Teresa Leung

2000-2001
President Lui Wen Kit
Vice President Jennifer Husin
Secretary Ng Sok Mian
Treasurer Joyce Shia
Sessions Maria Suyanto
Liturgy Pamela Khoo
Music Hayde Galvez
Publicity and Liasion (1) Colin Yong
Publicity and Liasion (2) Anthony Lazarus
Food Amy Yong

1999/2000
President Colin Yong
Vice President Jason Rajit
Secretary Andre Ridzwan
Treasurer Adeline Ngoh
General Committee:TBC

1998/1999
President Joshua Choong
Vice President Adeline Tay
Secretary Lynda Suryadi
Treasurer Indrawati Tio
General Committee:Kevin Suryadi
Joana Linggo
Clint Patrick
Michelle Yik
Teresa Leung
Justin Wong

1997/1998
TBC

1996/1997
President Brian Yeung
Vice President Gloria Daysor
Secretary Clare Wee
Treasurer Sharon Yong
General Committee:Phillis Wong
Chang Mei Lian
Pannie Tang
Dominic Wong
Sheila Poh
Gladys Ong

How to add photos to the Flickr badge

1. Get a Flickr account if you do not have one already. (It's free!)
2. Post photos.
3. Ensure the photos you want to appear in the badge are Public.
4. Tag the photos "cosdu". (Don't need to add the quotation marks.)
5. That's it!
   

COSDU's History

Taken from COSDU's old website.

In The Beginning (1986 - 1991)

The year was 1986. Sister Carol Hogan, a Blessed Sacrament Sister, set out on a journey that will change and enrich hundreds of international students' academic life in Melbourne. During that period of time, there were a very small number of overseas students who studied in Australia. They studied in high schools located across Victoria so were unaware of other overseas students. Sister Carol saw this as an unfortunate matter and she decided to form a support group that will bring them together every year. The group was called Overseas Students Down Under (O.S.D.U.). This was a perfect opportunity for the young people to meet and make friends. Many activities were organised such as annual camps, B.B.Qs, trips and outings.

Soon these young people graduated from high school and continued into tertiary educations. Many went to the University of Melbourne where Sister Carol worked as one of the University's chaplains. And they have maintained the friendship that was developed from the earlier times. Sister Carol became not only their friend and chaplain but she gave spiritual guide for these Catholic students. At that time, the Newman Society was the only Catholic organisation. In the hope of fulfilling their needs from an "overseas" perspective, they decided to form a separate group to further explore and improve their faith.

Catholic Overseas Students Down Under (C.O.S.D.U.) was born on 13th March 1987, the first official meeting took place in St.Mary's College West Hall. Starting with only 20 people coming from a common background proved to be a working formula. Everything was kept informal as students received instructions and learnt the many great facets of the Catholic faith every Friday evening. Eucharistic celebrations (mass), Rosary prayers, speaker talks, retreats were among the many activities organised under the guidance of Sister Carol. One of the earliest highlights was the end-of-year mass where we prepared mass for the public at St.Carthage's Church conducted by Fr. Michael Elligate and followed by dinner in St.Mary's West Hall. This event still continues until today where we marked the end-of-the-year mass as farewell to the graduating students.im grew with members mainly from Malaysia, Hong Kong, Phillipines and Indonesia gathered as one Community of Faith. However, this caused the first major crisis COSDU faced. Informality has evolved into lack of organisation and direction. The need to have a rigid structure then resulted in the formation of a committee, that was led by James Chin and Jennifer King as President and Vice President respectively.


The Wonder Years (1992 - 2000)

As COSDU entered the 1990s, many of the founding members graduated and some returned to their homeland. However, that did not stop the orientation recruitments and events publicity . More students from other parts of the world such as Africa and China became part of the multicultural COSDU. By this time, the students were able to take more responsibilities in organising activities and managing the group. Since then Sister Carol became the spiritual director for COSDU.

Besides offering students with religious guidance, forming friendships became part of the weekly activities. This was celebrated by food provided after the sessions. Since the group received their finances from students' donations, they were unable to cope as the group grew larger. Therefore, COSDU was enlisted into the Melbourne University Student Union Clubs & Society where the group received funds for the activities.

As time passed, there was an increasing number of overseas students in Melbourne. People from other countries such as Singapore, Japan, Korea, Mauritius and other univeristies like Monash and RMIT participated in the activities. New ideas emerged and there were more variety of activities such as Praise & Worship, Prayer sessions, Bible sharing, Group Discussions, Personal explorations.

Social gatherings such as Sports Day and BBQs were organised to maintain contact with other members. One of the main events in COSDU history had to be the collaboration between RMIT and Melbourne University students. They were led by Dominic Wong (RMIT) to put on a musical called "Witness: The Night After The Day Before" It was performed at Prince Philip Theatre, Melbourne University on 27th September 1997.

In September 1998, COSDU was to learn a worthwhile lesson. Sister Carol, inspired by a Marist Brother, Mick Sexton, started "Being There Program" to increase international students awareness of social justice. Brother Mick coordinated the program with Australian students. Lynda Suryadi organised the first "Being There". Students were given choices of places to visit and volunteer in old folks home, community centers, soup kitchens, religious communities and others for one day. Some COSDU members even continued their generosity by becoming a regular volunteer after the day was over.


The New Generation (2001 - Now)

The main highlight of a COSDU year had to be and still is The Annual Easter Retreat. Sister Carol started this as a way of bringing the students together for 3 days where they are able to relax and learn more about the importance of faith in life. The retreat was always successful in helping students with their troubles or just to unwind from the daily student life. These are the venues where COSDU members had been privileged in : Mercy Convent , Mornington, Silver Creek, Marist Brothers, Drusilla Mount Macedon, Passionist Fathers Retreat Centre, Templestowe, ‘Greyfriars’, Mornington, Christian Brothers, “Amberley” Lower Plenty.

Ever since COSDU started, we had been using and moving through many venues located on campus. Some venues became too small for the consistently increasing group and the availability of these venues varied from week to week. This was a crisis for COSDU as there are not many venues on university campus to accomodate a big group. Besides that, COSDU wanted to choose one venue that can be used for all sessions throughout the year.

Through the kindness and help from Sister Carol and Newman College, COSDU has found a new home. Since July 2001, Kenny Lounge became the new venue for COSDU sessions and St.Mary's Chapel for the monthly mass. More new ideas were included in the sessions too such as Stations of the Cross, weekly Church Tour, Meditations, Biblical Quiz, Nature Walks.

Sadly after 16 fruitful years, Sister Carol decided to retire. On 27th July 2002, COSDU celebrated for one last time the commitment, generosity, kindness and chaplain life of Sister Carol Hogan. In August 2002, Sister Theresa Ryan, a Franciscan Sister, was personally chosen by Sister Carol to continue her work with international students in Melbourne. At the same year, another history making event was marked in COSDU calendar ; Alison Lee was elected as COSDU President after the absence of women presidents in many years.

Today, COSDU has attracted many new incoming students in Melbourne. Our members come from different institutions (Melbourne Uni, RMIT, Trinity, MUFY, Swinburne) and different countries (Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong and more). As we continue to serve students, working adults, Catholic or non-Catholics, COSDU will always be remembered simply as a 'FAMILY AWAY FROM HOME GROWING TOGETHER IN CHRIST'.