Graduation Mass - 23 Nov 2007

Graduation Mass last semester didn't feel that long ago as we held our farewell ceremony at the end of this semester. Our graduants - Patricia, Eric, Hui Chuan, Madeleine, Geoff, Eugenia, Jean, Diane and Bryant, went up to the altar near the end of the Mass to receive their blessings from Fr. Mckenna. Though it is with sadness in our hearts that we see them leaving this family, we look upon them with joy as they begin their new journey, bringing with them skills acquired from their studies and uni life, memories from good old COSDU days, and a passion to love and serve the community that they will be in.

Prayer Calendar for Exams & Assessments Nov 2007

Click for the bigger pic.

Exams are round the corner so do work hard and pray (not play) hard. Say your rosaries, especially during this month, and keep each other in your prayers.

For those who have not given me your exam dates, please do so asap so that we can pray for you! Just send an email to cosdu.melbuni@gmail.com =)

Sister Theresa's Farewell Mass and Dinner

I recall last year when I first came to Melbourne and really couldn’t accept the reality of living alone, cooking and eating alone and I had issues blending in with my cohort who were already studying together for 2 yrs. One evening towards the end of the first sem I had a real breakdown which was very depressing and I contacted Sister. Sister not only called me more than once that night but coached me on the phone and guided me and it really helped me get through the semester. I am really grateful for that.

Ramesh

Indeed, Sister Theresa has been a comfort to many of us through our own difficult times. We will always remember her as peaceful and loving and who is always concerned about us. To acknowledge her work for COSDU for the past five years, and to bid her farewell as she heads off on her new journey, we held a Farewell Mass and Dinner for her last Friday.

Bishop Hilton Deakin and Fr. Michael Mckenna graced the occasion by celebrating the Mass, which was held at All Saints Church in Fitzroy. Dinner was then provided at the Presbytery, but not after a slide show presentation of COSDU photos, speeches by Ramesh and Jean, and the presentation of our gift to her, a notebook with quotes
and COSDU pictures.



As her birthday is within the same month, we bought her a cake and surprised her with an advance birthday celebration. (Amanda did make a cake initially, but for the
decorations, we couldn't get the cream to stay. The fruits did stay, but on the cake for less than 10 seconds. We decided it was simply too messy to be packed in a box, transported and presented, and so in order to commerate our effort in trying, we took photos, ate up the one we made, and bought her one instead. We tried. =P)




Sister Theresa will be in the Chaplaincy from 29 Oct till the end of Nov, and will be in Melbourne till the end of this year.

Integrity of Life

Our first session after the Spring Break was given by E Wei on the 'Integrity of Life' - on the Church's stand towards abortion. We were first given two videos showing actual abortion procedures, followed by discussion questions on how we felt about abortion after watching those two clips. The clips showed the raw nature of abortions, bringing us to a realisation of the actual brutality of it. E Wei went on to present to us the definition of abortion and the methods of abortion at the different stages of pregnancy, as an elaboration on how cruel abortion is. Some of these methods include the suction aspiration, which is inserting a suction curette into the womb to tear and suck the baby out into a bottle at an early stage, and the partial birth abortion, which delivers the baby's entire body except for the head, decapitating and killing it.

The Church's stand to this is clear: we support life. Life begins at conception, when an embryo is no longer just a simple cell from his or her father or mother but a combination of both, with his or her own growth, and no one has a right to terminate this life. After much discussion, we recognized that women who undergo abortions do so under complex and most probably emotionally traumatic situations, such as rape or incest, and we would never be able to fully comprehend nor guess at their situation, emotions and the difficulty of choice they have to make. We can never ever judge them, as we do not have the right to do so, and will fully give them any support we can provide for them to make the right choice, which is to not abort. Abortion is an inherently bad choice, and we condemn this act as sin. However, we do not condemn the sinner, and we should never sideline nor condescend women who have made this decision to abort.

Many pro-choice activists argue that women who undergo abortion due to rape and incest suffer a lot of emotional trauma and so they should be allowed to end their suffering by undergoing abortion. Does this mean that people suffering from depression should be allowed to take their lives as part of ending the suffering? Catholics recognise suffering as part of life, and that our value should not compromised for the sake of avoiding or terminating our own suffering.

We also learnt about the Principle of Double Effect, which states that even though the Church opposes all direct and intentional killings of the child, it does not condemn procedures which result in the loss of the child as a secondary effect, such as miscarriage due to medical procedures necessary for the mother's health.

This session brought us in touch with some of the many moral issues that our society grapples with, which is, sadly, the mere definition of life and our integrity on it. I am sure most of us felt a stir in our hearts, whether in coming to a sad realisation that this society is selfish, or whether in finding our own voice and resolution in this matter.

Sports Day 2007

Our annual event Sports Day was held last last Saturday on 15 Sept at Albert Park. The weather forecast predicted a rainy day, and gigantic clouds loomed at the start, but a gap in between the clouds spread, and by the middle of our games, the sky was perfect blue.

At 9am, E Wei and I waited for the majority of the people at Bourke St, and boarded a tram to Albert Park, while some of the others (kudos to Jian Sheng, Amanda, Janan, Maria and Hobart) prepared the food and brought it to the venue in the wee hours of the morning. Upon our arrival, the chicken wings were well soaked in marinate and waiting to be barbequed.

The participants were then split into four teams - blue, red, yellow and purple. And then the battle started, in rounds of captain's ball and touch rugby, and the Blue Team emerged the winner.



After all that hard work, we had lunch by the barbeque pit. The production line could not meet the demands of the market fast enough and so we had a pack of vultures waiting by the side for chicken wings, sausages, and stir fried mushrooms with onions, meanwhile feeding ourselves with bread and tomato sauce. The food turned out to be really good, especially the chicken wings (kudos again). After prize giving, and playing a few more rounds of soccer on our own, we packed up, took a group pic by the playground, and went home feeling worked out and immensely satisfied.

Apologetics

Have you heard of the term 'Apologetics' and wondered what it means? It actually refers to the defence of something that you believe in, which could be anything, ranging from Atheist beliefs to our Roman Catholic faith.

Anastasia covered the topic of Apologetics: what it means, why we should know how to defend our faith, the common misconceptions of our faith, and how we can clarify and stand by what we believe in. Throughout the session, it was heartening (to me at least) to see the way we questioned and debated, presented our own understandings and definitions, and explored certain difficult concepts togther. Below are some of the points that was presented:

1) We should know how to defend our faith and be ready to do so when the occasion calls for because we should
“Always be READY to make your DEFENSE to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the HOPE that is in you. Yet do it with gentleness and reverence.”
1Peter 3:15-16

2) We should also believe that 'being saved' is a process: we Were saved, by the coming of Christ; we Are Being saved, by our own behaviour and actions; and that we Will Be saved, by God's grace even though what we have done is essentially not sufficient.

3) The term 'Scola Scriptura' -the bible only- was introduced. Some people attack the RC church using the Bible, quoting from it and using the Word against the teachings of the Church. But, the many books of the Bible was picked, compiled and validated by the Catholic church. So if the Church's teachings are all a lie, does that mean the Bible is too?

4) We recognise that the Pope and the ecumenical council are infallible in the teachings of faith and morality. This is because we believe that any such decisions are made in the joint action of the Spirit of God and themselves.

5) We do not worship the Saints. We honour them as righteous people and ask them to intercede for us. This is akin to asking our friends and families here on Earth to pray for us to God. Since we recognise the Church as a body of not only those on Earth, but also those who are in heaven, we also recognise the Saints as family.

6) Similarly, we honour Mother Mary as the mother of God, who knows her Son better than any of us, and so her prayers will be more powerful. We do not worship her nor recognise that she has any authority. Some might argue that she is only the mother of the earthly Jesus and not that of the divine. However, Jesus is Man and God in one person. He does not have split personalities and his identity of both Man and God cannot be separated.

Merdeka

It seems uncanny that the three National Days that by-passed us in the last two months have fallen on, or near, Friday COSDU sessions. Anyway, here is the video clip showing the Malaysians' loyalty on Merdeka:

The Liturgy of the Word and of the Eucharist

The previous two sessions focused on the two aspects of Mass - the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Celina, Janan and Ramesh talked about the preparations needed to be done by lectors, who are the people who read the first and second readings at the lectionary.

A lector is one who proclaims God's word to the assembly, and to proclaim God's word, we must be a living word ourselves, for we cannot proclaim what we do not live. Like St. Paul, we should say "Not I, but Christ in me" as the Word burns in our hearts.

A lector should regularly read and reflect on the Scriptures, hold God's word close to his or her heart, listen for God's word in prayer and through others, and practise good communication skills with others in truth, respect and dignity.


Celina, Janan and Ramesh then gave a short Trivia at the end of the session, which proved to be extremely fun, competitive (what's new) and informative, as we enjoyed ourselves and learnt much about the many details involved in the celebration of Mass. Some questions included:

What is the difference between a chalice, a ciborium, and a corporal?
Are we allowed to follow the priest in saying the “Through Him, With Him, In Him…”?
Why is there a need for different colours throughout the liturgical year and what do they represent?


The following Friday, Sister Carol Hogan gave the session on the Eucharist and its connection to Social Justice. Some of the topics she touched on included the mandate of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and its objectives, as well as the plurality of definitions and concepts of the Eucharist given by the Church, and how they have changed over the years.

The Council's mandate was and is to promote justice and peace in the world, in the light of the Gospel and of the social teaching of the Church (art. 142).

Question: What is Holy Mass?
Answer: The Holy Mass is the Sacrifice of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, really present on the altar under the appearances of bread and wine, and offered to God for the living and the dead (The Penny or Baltimore Catechism, 1930, no. 277).

We cannot delude ourselves: by our mutual love, and, in particular, by our concern for those in need we will be recognized as true followers of Christ (cf. John 13: 35; Matthew 25:31-46). This will be the criterion by which the authenticity of our Eucharistic celebrations is judged. (John Paul II: Apostolic letter: Mane Nobiscum Domine, 2005 par. 28).

In the sacrament of the altar, the lord meets us, men and women, created in God’s image and likeness (cf. Gen 1:27) and becomes our companion along the way. In this sacrament, the Lord truly becomes food for us, to satisfy our hunger for truth and freedom. (Pope Benedict XVI, Apostolic exhortation, Sacramentum Caritas: The Sacrament of Love, 2007, par. 2).


One of the pictures that Sr. Hogan showed during the session was of a sculpture, 'Jesus and the Samaritan Woman'. The suffering Christ symbolises Christ’s gift of himself to us and his presence in the suffering people of our world. It also portrays the divine life that flows between the faithful Christian, symbolized by the Samaritan woman and Christ himself. While participating in the Eucharist we are reminded that Christ gave his life for us. Thus the Eucharist is an invitation to us to give our lives for others and to be people, who are committed to social justice. The overall structure of the sculpture signifies the Eucharist and Social Justice in a full circle.

Jesus and the Samaritan Woman
Stephen Broadbent
Chester Cathedral, England

Join us this Friday, 7 Sept 2007, at St. Carthage's at 6pm, as we take part in this 'sacred banquet of communion with the Lord's body and blood' together as a family away from home - COSDU. Registration for the upcoming Sports Day will be taking place, and more details will be provided.

Post-Modernism: Faith and Spirituality in an iPod Era

Last Friday saw the first of our weekly Sing Song Sessions, which went well considering that so many people were down with viruses. We managed to sing about 5 to 6 songs, and then Br. Tony Clarke took over with his talk.

He introduced the term 'Post-modernism' and the influence it has on our lives. What sort of challenges do we face today that are different from that of our parents' time? Some brought up the difference in perspective of faith. Our parents used to somewhat blindly follow religion and just accepted what was taught to them as 'truth', while our generation questions and delves into religion's mysteries, and critically analyses the 'truths' brought to us. This openness of youths today is one of the elements of the ideologies of post-modernism, which also includes individualism and freedom of choice. The media plays a large role in promoting these values, with advertisements of 'Indulge' and 'Freedom'.

We came to the conclusion that post-modernism is good in the sense that we don't just blindly our faith, but that we explore it and make a conscious decision to believe. Br. Clarke also talked about how the view of the Catholic church is changing and moving with a more positive view towards post-modernism eg. how the church answers the questions people ask, and how the Pope apologises when he makes a mistake or says something wrong. However, post-modernism promotes 'the self' and individualism, which clashes with our faith. (In the original post I misquoted Sister here, and my sincere apologies to anyone who read that.)

After much debate and discussion, we ended off with a closing prayer and another National Day Song - Indonesia's! This time round, the Indos even had a guitar for accompaniedment as well as much expression of loyalty for their country.

The next session will be on 'The Liturgy of the Word and of the Eucharist', held in the Chaplaincy, with the SingSongSession starting at 6pm.

FON is next tues and wed, 28 and 29 Aug, and we'll be selling our oh-so-popular Ramly burgers again! So do keep your lunchtimes and stomachs free for those days! More details will be up soon.

COSDU T-Shirt

T-shirts at $17!
Order at any Friday COSDU session!

Ask and You Shall Receive

The theme for this semester's sessions is 'Mission', and last Friday Sister Theresa started this series of sessions with 'Ask and You Shall Receive'. She brought us to the topic of how God sometimes seem not to answer prayers, and we gave our views on why we felt so. For example some of us felt that the things we asked for in our prayers might not be good for us, or that He will give it to us in His time, or that maybe we ourselves do not know the answers to our prayers. She went on to explain that our actions must tie in with our prayers - if we pray for world peace, then we must first show concern for others around us in order to bring about that peace. Sister then talked about how Jesus himself taught us how we should pray, and implored us to mean the words that we say in the Lord's Prayer.

Father Inyoung, who was a member of COSDU before he was ordained, blessed us with his presence, a closing prayer, blessings and his beautiful ordination cards. We, the Singaporeans, feeling extremely blessed that day, stood up to sing our National Anthem with much enthusiasm, in celebration of our National Day, which was on 9 August, the day before.

Jason, Ian and Jon's convocation ceremony was held the day after, and many COSDUans made a trip down to Melb Uni to take photos and to congragulate them on their graduation.



That night also saw Anastasia and Celina's housewarming party, which was a relaxing evening of home-cooked food, Pictionary, and Praise and Worship songs.



This coming Wednesday, 15 August 2007, is the Feast of The Assumption, and is a day of obligation. Mass times are as follows, kindly provided by Ramesh:

Chaplaincy
1.30 pm
First Floor Seminar Room

All Saints, Fitzroy
5.30 pm

Newman College (Next to uni)
8 am and 12 Noon

St.Francis, Lonsdale St.
Not Available on the website. Do contact the church if necessary.

St.Augustine, Bourke St.
I lost the bulletin... :) very sure there is a 6.30pm. Dont bother checking their website cause its dead. hehehehe

'Living Faith in an Ipod Era' is the topic for the next session, and will be given by Br. Tony Clarke. Seeing how so many of us get lost in the world of today's technology, this session will be worth a go. More details can be found in the email to come.

Don't forget to go for Mass on wed!

Welcome Mass, Icebreakers, and Breaking the News

During Clubs and Societies Day, 18 newcomers signed up at the booth set up at the North Court. It was a heartening number, considering that it was raining on that day and that it is the second intake of the year. These newcomers joined us for the first time in our Welcome Mass for them, which was held at St Carthages and by our chaplain, Father Michael McKenna. After the mass, we proceeded to St Mary's West Hall, where we had a round of introductions, lovely food, food, and more food.

Team bonding games were in place the week after. The first was The Helium Stick, where the whole team had to support a pole using only their index fingers to bring it down to the ground. It sounds easy, but most of us soon found the pole floating upwards instead of down, so it required a lot of teamwork and communication to complete the task. The second game was The Egg Test, which saw the production and marketing of Snest, The Cradle, Bob and COSDU, innovations made up of straws and paper to protect an egg dropped from a height. Quite a lot of comic relief came from this segment, as people argued and defended their egg products.



Those of you who received the email would have known that a (very very very)X10 important announcement was to be made. Yes, it was made, and it is that Sister Theresa would be leaving on 1 Jan 2008 for her Sabbatical year. A sabbatical year is a prolonged hiatus, typically one year, in the career of an individual taken in order to fulfill some goal. For Sister Theresa, this journey involves a desert experience in the States, as well as bible courses and studies. It will also be a period of discernment for her, which means that she might switch to another ministry depending on where the Holy Spirit leads her. For now, she will be at the Chaplaincy till the end of November 2007, so do spare some time this semester to visit her there before she leaves.

One good opportunity to meet up with her would be on the 10th of August, where she will be conducting the weekly Friday session. This session is themed 'Ask and You Shall Receive' and will be held at St Mary's at 6.30pm. Monday lunchtime bible sharing sessions have also resumed at 1.15pm at the Chaplaincy, and these are good opportunities too.

Graduation Mass - 22 June 2007

A milestone such as a graduation should be remembered, and following this, COSDU called upon a celebration no less than a Eucharist to give many blessings and prayers upon our proud, and to a certain extent relieved, graduates.

After seeing many familiar faces standing before the altar last semester, it is safe to say that we saw no less this time around. And while it is a joyous occasion, a certain air of sadness filled the atmosphere as a few farewells were said to those returning to their respective home countries to begin a new chapter in their lives.

Graduation Mass at the end of Semester 1 2007, marked yet another phase change in the COSDU community. Some of its residents are moving out and on; but it is without a doubt that new ones will be coming in, ready to continue the community’s spirit and livelihood. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to those who have left their footprints in this tightly knit group.

The beauty of endings lies in what they bring – new beginnings.
God bless our graduates!

Clara

Chalking

Today concluded the two days of chalking for Orientation. The first one was for the Clubs and Societies Day, while the second was for the Welcome Mass this coming Friday. We're meeting all newcomers at 5.45pm at Sidney Myer, with the mass starting at 6.30pm at St. Carthage's. And many thanks to those that came down to help us: Darren, Hobart, Nelson, Maria, Ramesh, Celina, E Wei and Janan.

Programme of Cosdu Sessions for Semester 2 2007

Week 1
Date: 27 July 2007
Activity: Welcome Mass
Venue: St Carthage's (along Royal Parade)
Time: 6.30 pm

Week 2
Date: 3 August 2007
Activity: Icebreaking/Intro to COSDU
Venue: West Hall - St Mary's
Time: 6.30pm

Week 3
10 August 2007
Activity: Ask and You Shall Receive - by Sr. Theresa Ryan
Venue: Chaplaincy
Time: 6.30pm

Week 4
17 August 2007
Activity: Living Faith in an Ipod Era - by Br. Tony Clarke
Venue: Chaplaincy
Time: 6.30pm

Week 5
24 August 2007
Activity: The Liturgy of the Word and of the Eucharist - by Janan, Ramesh & Celina
Venue: Chaplaincy
Time: 6.30pm

Week 6
31 August 2007
Activity: The Eucharist & Social Justice - by Sr. Carol Hogan
Venue: Chaplaincy
Time: 6.30pm

Week 7
7 September 2007
Activity: Mass
Location : St Carthage's (along Royal Parade)
Time : 6.30 pm

Week 8
14 September 2007
Activity: Introduction to Apologetics - by Anastasia
Venue: Chaplaincy
Time: 6.30pm

15 September 2007
Activity: Sports day
Venue: Albert Park
Time: 10am - 4pm

Mid Semester Break
21 & 28 September 2007

Week 9
5 October 2007
Activity: Social Justice Awareness - by E Wei
Venue: Chaplaincy (to be confirmed)
Time: 6.30pm

Week 10
12 October 2007
Activity: Sister Theresa's Farewell Mass and Dinner
Venue: All Saints Church
Time: 6.30pm

Week 11
19 October 2007
Activity: What It Means To Be a Catholic - by Fr. Andy Hamilton
Venue: Chaplaincy
Time: 6.30pm

Week 12
23 October 2007
Activity: Examination Mass
Location : St Carthage's (along Royal Parade)
Time : 6.30 pm

July 2007 Orientation

Calling all Catholics and children of God in Melbourne!

If you are an international student studying in any university in Melbourne (locals are welcomed too!), do come down to the University of Melbourne on the Clubs and Societies day during this July Orientation, and look out for our big black COSDU banner to find our booth!

Clubs & Societies Day
17 July 2007
11am - 2pm
North Court, University of Melbourne

There will also be a Welcome Mass for all new and members-to-be at St. Carthages Church. Registration will take place at both the booth and after the mass, so don't fret even if you miss Orientation!

Welcome Mass
27 July 2007
6.30pm
St. Carthages Church

For those who do not know where the church is, there will be COSDUans waiting at the front of Sidney Myer Asia Centre of the Uni of Melb along Swanston St at 5.45pm to bring you there.

If you are already a COSDUan, do help us out if you can, be it in manning the booth, for chalking, or for bringing the newbies to mass. We need your manpower and your support!

Anyone who has any queries, do not hesitate to contact Anastasia (who will be one of the two waiting for you at Sidney Myer) at 0413873915 or at a.agusto@ugrad.unimelb.edu.au.

Keep your faith alive!

Prayer Calendar for Exams and Assessments

Semester 1 2007 has ended and it's the dreaded exams again. Amidst fervent praying for yourself during this stressful exam period, do also pray for others who are in the same shoes as you!

Despite that there won't be anymore COSDU sessions to look forward to till the end of the exam period, we hope that the Exam Mass has charged you with sufficient strength to pull through this trying period.

Hang in there! Less than a month left till the end of exams and COSDU's Grad Mass and Function and plenty of fun!

God Bless!

There is no Place like Home

The final session to wrap up the the first semester of 2007 is aptly themed, "There is no Place like Home." As we approach the winter break, many of us might be making plans to visit our friends and loved one back home.

During the discussion, it also surfaced that some of us would pine for home more acutely when experiencing stress in the face of looming deadlines and mounting assignments. The time of sharing as facilitated by Ming Yin helped us to find solace in the fact that we're not alone in our struggles and in the bitter sweet moments of homesickness.

However, to balance the naval-gazing, we've also been prompted to reflect on how we have and can contributed in making Cosdu "a home a away from home," and "family away from home" especially for others adjusting to a new environment.

To conclude, we ended of with a biblical perspective of "home" and finding our place in God - Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. (John 15:4)

Finally, there is no better way to facilitate a good time of fellowship than with food, especially home cooked local food, prepared unreservedly with lots of tender loving care and served up in a homely ambiance.

Thanks again Ming for opening up your home to us!

Take care as we strive towards the last week of Semester and while Cosdu takes a break from formal gatherings during the exam period and winter break.

Cosdu's New Committee

Proudly introducing the 2007-2008 Committee:



President - Ramesh Richards
Vice President - Anstasia 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

Thanks one and all for participating at the Cosdu AGM on Friday. As the 2006/2007 Committee steps down, the newly elected Committee headed by Ramesh will take the reigns and bring Cosdu to new heights and challenges in the coming year.

The Portfolio of the President in the Committee

“Remain united to me, and I will remain united to you. A branch cannot bear fruit by itself; it can do so only if it remains in the vine. In the same way you cannot bear fruit unless you remain in me.” (John 15:4)

This was the passage I read during Gospel Sharing the week after I was elected and I know it was no coincidence.

Many times in my term as President, I have had to remember that COSDU does not belong to man; but to God. There were many times when circumstances went beyond my control and I did not know what to do. Being quite a perfectionist, I struggled with my need to know how to act in situations. I got angry with myself from not doing better and for not having greater foresight. Yet each time, God reminded me that I am not in charge of COSDU; He is. I may be the appointed leader of COSDU, but He is the ultimate owner.

Being a President has been a very humbling experience for me. Knowing my need for perfection, God has repeatedly challenged me to let go and to let His Spirit work. Even though we know that COSDU is a community for God, I think that many times, we can (I know I have) forget that God is truly dwelling in our midst. We worry that things will not go well and take it upon ourselves to make sure things do not fall. We rely on our own human strength, forgetting that God is real and will therefore give to all who seek!

Thankfully, He knows that we need to learn to trust in Him and He gives us time and space to do so. During my term as President, I have grown much more in my trust in Him because sometimes, I have been forced to depend on Him. Haha… but I am glad I was occasionally forced, because it has helped me to know and to trust God so much more.

I wouldn’t say that I have done my job perfectly. In fact, I know that I have disappointed people at times. Yet, it is through my weaknesses and mistakes that I have learnt to be humble. It is also because of my weaknesses that I have learnt to seek forgiveness and very importantly, to forgive myself. I read a quote the other day from Max Lucado. It said that “What makes a Christian a Christian is not perfection, but forgiveness.”

Thus, I believe that anyone has what it takes to be a leader of COSDU as long as he/she is one who loves God, loves COSDU, and is prepared to be committed and faithful to his/her term.

These are most important qualities but it is, of course, good for a leader to be able to listen, with an open heart, to the voices in his/her committee as well as to the voices of the wider COSDU community. With that said, if the President feels strongly about an issue and others may not, the President must not be afraid to stand up for what he/she believes in (but do so in a gentle and respectful way). Also, a President must try not to be too caught up with his/her duties that he/she forgets to mingle with the members of COSDU because it is only through interaction that he/she can be more sensitive to the needs of COSDU. Other official duties of a President are listed below -

What the President does on an official level:

1. Oversees and ensures the overall smooth running of COSDU
2. Takes care of each ministry of COSDU and takes care of every committee member
3. Supervises and delegates tasks to committee members
4. Calls and chairs committee meetings
5. Organizes a Committee Retreat at the start of each semester
6. Seeks the spiritual guidance and liaises with the Chaplain (Sister Theresa) on a regular basis
7. Participates in any of the UMSU and MUOSS meetings and liaises with UMSU on any club matters. (COSDU must run according to the rules of UMSU and the President must ensure this is adhered to.)
8. Striving towards personal goals that you, as President, may have (e.g. Knowing COSDU as a community and knowing the members at an individual level).

With that said, I would like to urge any of you who may be considering this position to not fear the responsibilities that come with it. Yes, it will be challenging at times but it is also extremely fulfilling and you will definitely learn and grow a lot from the experience. Also, remember that you will not be alone in leadership because you will have 9 other committee members to support you and to lead COSDU with you.

So be not afraid. =) Keep praying for God to reveal his vocation in COSDU for you and if at any time, you wish to find out more about the role of a President, I will be here and am more than willing to share. =)

God bless,

Jean

The Portfolio of the Vice President in the Committee

The portfolio of the Vice President is not definite and not set in stone. However, the main job that the Vice President must always bear in mind is to support the President and to help the President whenever and wherever possible. The Vice President should also help the other committee members, such as helping in logistics for the sessions and sometimes helping the Social Activities Coordinator with organization of events such as Sports Day.

Helping in logistics for the sessions involves getting in touch with the Sessions Coordinator or the Social Justice Coordinator (depending on who is in-charge of the session for the particular week), checking with them the list of stuff needed for the coming session and helping to ensure the required items are at the specified venue by 6.30pm every Friday.

My experience of serving in the committee for the past year is definitely something I will cherish for a long, long time to come. The friendships built were something I did not expect the day I was given the chance to serve in COSDU and I can only thank God and COSDU for giving me this opportunity.

If any of you are apprehensive about running for the role of Vice President, just remember that God is in-charge and to let Him lead. Please do not hesitate to ask me if you have any questions and I will endeavor to answer them as best as I can. Do think about running for this post and God bless.

Bryant

The Portfolio of the Secretary in the Committee

“Paper work’ is what comes to the mind of most people when they think of the Secretarial post.

“Paper work” however is merely a means to an end. The skills of the secretary is used to bring some sense of order after each committee meeting where a myriad of ideas are often strewn around, to ensure that Cosdu as an affiliated club of the University of Melbourne Student Union (UMSU) adheres to their regulations, and be available to UMSU in the capacity of an executive committee member.

The on-going duty of the Secretary is the consolidation of the minutes of the aforementioned monthly meeting and ensuring that venues for the sessions and masses are available and constantly updating the membership list (which has become consequential of late since it affects funding). The more adhoc tasks involve overseeing the AGM, amending the Constitution accordingly and sending out Christmas Cards as a token of appreciation for guests speaks, priests and others who have contributed in an official capacity

Therefore, more than most portfolios, the Secretary has to have the big picture in mind as well as to be able to see how the flow of information and discussions cascade down to the activities.

The more intense period for me as a Secretary has to be getting clarity of the ramification of the implementation of VSU that was announced towards the end of last year. This involves realizing the drastic cut in funding even while Cosdu adheres to the basic terms of affiliation. However, like all members in the Committee, the Secretary does not work alone. Ultimately challenges are worked out as a committee and decisions are made together.

The satisfaction that the Secretary gets is to be able to contribute to the efficient flow of information and data.

With the help and support of my committee, I’ve been able to negotiate through the more demanding aspects of the job.

If your passion lies with organization and you have the knack for translating thoughts into words and action, and if you are looking for an opportunity to serve in a less conspicuous but equally valuable position, I encourage you to consider the portfolio of the Secretary at the coming AGM.

Wynnie

The Portfolio of the Treasurer in the Committee

So, what does a treasurer do? Basically, I collect membership fees, apply for UMSU grants, record the inflow and outflow of cash (i.e. book keeping), provide funds for activities/events, ensure that COSDU's funds are healthy and most importantly, providing support for the rest of the committee.

I've got to admit that I was a little concerned about taking up this position because after all, I was dealing with money! But really, it wasn't all that bad! In fact, it has been a wonderful learning experience, especially since I'd be dealing with money a lot when I start working! You don't necessarily need to be a commerce student to be a treasurer, because firstly, it isn't all that difficult, and secondly, I'd be around to guide you if you ever need help. Lastly, being a treasurer will look good on your resume too! And you get to count money, all the time!

I really am thankful for having the opportunity to be part of a committee because of all the incredible experiences I've had. Being treasurer brought me closer to COSDU and it allowed me to be more involved. COSDU is an important part of my undergraduate life, especially with all the Friday Nights, Easter Camps, friendships and fun times. I can't imagine how my whole Melbourne experience would have been like without COSDU! I'm glad that I've had the chance to serve as treasurer. It really is a great way to end my undergraduate life.

Even if it did take up some of my time and even if I had to make sacrifices along the way and even if it got a little stressful sometimes, it was all worth it in the end!

Maria

The Portfolio of the Sessions Coordinator in Committee

Having been in COSDU for the past 6+ years and having served on 3 different committees, I have had the privilege of watching and being part of its growth. Members/ friends come and go, committees are elected and step down year after year, dynamics may change: but one thing remains constant: that God is and must always be a centre of COSDU, our family away from home...

With this in mind, in order be on the committee, (no matter what position!), one does not need to have all the answers to life or about GOD nor does one need to possess any super out of this world qualities. (heck, I certainly DON’T have any of those!!)

The key is having the commitment to SERVE with a humble, open and sincere heart and the rest will fall into place as one learns on the job.

Being on the committee, in general, certainly has been extremely rewarding yet challenging as things which are not quite specified on the particular job description are bound to crop up. Hence, there will be a need to give or receive help and support to each other as well as carrying out tasks beyond one’s call of duty when the need arises.

In terms of being the sessions coordinator, to be honest, this position was a portfolio I always shied away from. Why? For the obvious reason that it is perceived to be the “scariest” as it may seem as though ALL the work of the Friday meetings falls on the one fool hardy enough to take up this position. But last year, I somehow got convinced to take the plunge to take up this position in my final year in Uni…

And yes, although there have been times I questioned myself why and what could have possibly possessed me to run for this whilst juggling a million other things in my life, the big guy up there (Yes, our God with an incredible sense of humor) finds creative ways of teaching me new things; be it about myself, friendship or about Him/ my religion and showing me that He is in control. I have learnt to truly live by the motto, “To work as though everything depends on you, but pray as though everything depends on God.”

As the Sessions Coordinator, one would have the opportunity to steer the direction of COSDU’s sessions based on the needs of its members. In addition to working with the committee, there is a chance of involving members in various ways and engaging speakers or facilitators depending on the session topic. Since some background work is necessary for the smooth running of each session, one would be exposed to so much more than what can be encompassed within the scope of each COSDU session.

Finally, if you are considering running for this position, but are daunted by the volume of work involved, do remember that although the Cessions Coordinator is ultimately responsible for what takes place during session, he/she need not be the actual speaker or facilitator. (yes, one can hopefully find the happy balance between delegating and personally overseeing things) And you can always count on receiving input from

Sr Theresa who is an ENORMOUS source of inspiration and guidance.

So think about it, find out more, pray about it and if you feel called or up to the challenge, go for it! I am available if anyone has any queries about this post or about being on the comm in general.

Remember - “Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for others in your speech, your conduct, your love and purity.” 1 Tim 4:12

Take care and God bless.

Ming Yin

The Portfolio of the Liturgy Coordinator in the Committee

Almost a year ago, I was seated at West Hall, St.Mary's College eating Domino's Pizza. It was COSDU's AGM. I went in there with the hope that I will lead COSDU for 2006/2007 with my friends working hard with me for the greater glory…

For God knows my ability better than myself… I left West Hall that evening with a different portfolio. A portfolio that I am very proud of, God has entrusted me with. Some people might call it easy stuff with no stress involved, and some people might look at it as a service or a medium to allow God to work His miracles. I was elected as the Liturgy Coordinator for COSDU 2006/2007.

Why do I say 'service or medium to allow God to work His miracles'? My duty is to prepare the church- the physical church(building) and also to prepare the other church which is YOU!. If you are still confused as to what is the miracle, it is the Liturgy of the Eucharist where we as Catholics believe that the bread is made flesh-Jesus's flesh.

What do I mean by preparing the physical church?

It is setting the altar with the all necessary items- Sacramentary, Lectionary, Chalice, Purifier, Water(to wash fingers), Finger towel, Cruets(Water and Wine), Bread for Holy Communion( Until today, I cant estimate the amount of people attending Mass, I always put more!) , candles. I am very sure I left some stuff out but I guess you get the gist of it. J

Woops.. I knew I forgot something.. get a gift for the celebrant(COSDU will reimburse)

What do I mean by preparing you?

Getting a priest (most of time easy, unless I leave it till the last minute), getting the readings for the Liturgy of the Word, getting in touch with Music Coordinator (Denning) to discuss the main essence of the readings so that he can choose the appropriate hymns/songs, getting in touch with the Spiritual Advisor (Sr.Theresa) to discuss/prepare the Prayer of the Faithful and priest contacts if necessary, getting readers(harder than getting a priest! hehehehe), giving a little 5 minute formation for the readers if necessary and lastly getting a Communion Minister to assist the celebrant with the distribution of Holy Communion.

I also do other stuff that is not officially included under my portfolio but I feel will be helpful in our spiritual growth, such as compiling all the Mass times for the Holy Week and Days of Obligation, preparing mass booklets for mass( hoping you guys will bring it back and meditate over the readings) and also send out occasional emails regarding meaning of special events the Catholic Church celebrates.

My term is coming to an end, and it is time for me to hand over the duty that God has entrusted me to another person. I am happy that another person will be able to go through the same 'fun' I went through. The question now is-

Who makes the best Liturgy Coordinator?

Firstly, this position is open to BOTH male and female. This person SHOULD have a sound knowledge of the Liturgy and NO experience is required( you don’t have to be an ex altar server) and most importantly this person must be willing to learn and enjoy the service he/she gives to God.

Why should you consider this position?

1. You will understand the mass better
2. This will be a chance for you to mingle other older people(not just your parents, relatives, and tutors)
3. You have no choice but concentrate during mass! Hehehe
4. You will be in the COSDU Committee 2007/2008 where you will be able to plan and decide the future of COSDU.
5. Hello???….. you are serving God in a special way!

Lastly, my promise, I will be there to guide the newly elected through the preparation of the Exam Mass and that would be the last time I would be in charge. After that mass, the newly elected will be fully in charge and I will not interfere with anything regarding this portfolio UNLESS the newly elected ask me for my help. This is to avoid me from influencing the new Liturgy Coordinator thus allowing COSDU to further develop.

I hope I have served you well, as Liturgy Coordinator, as an elected member of COSDU Committee 2006/2007 and also as COSDU Easter Camp 2007 Committee Member. I am sorry if I have offended you or did not fulfil your expectations of me during my term of office. I did everything to the best of my ability. To COSDU Committee 2006/2007 thank you very much for the great year we had working together for the better of COSDU and to my friends from the Easter Camp 2007 committee, A Job Well Done guys! To everyone else, thank you for coming to church because YOU MAKE THE CHURCH and if you don’t come they wont be Mass!

COSDU Committee 2007/2008, my best wishes and I pray that COSDU will continue to grow and reach out to all the International students so that they will all call COSDU, A home away from home!

I guess my last email in office…

Ramesh

Liturgy Coordinator

COSDU 2006/2007

Just thought of sharing this story…

Last year while looking for a job, I had put in my CV that I accidently put in my CV that I am a Liturgy Minister and not Liturgy Coordinator. When I went for the interview, the director of the fairly large archi practice asked me if I was a pastor and I looked at him blankly. He then showed me my CV and asked me what do I mean by Liturgy Minister…. May be that is why I did not get the job and I am back in Uni. Hehehehe

The Portfolio of the Music Coordinator in the Committee

Before dwelling on the nitty gritty of what music coordinator is all about, I want to share my experiences in this post.

Honestly, it took me awhile to get use to the idea that I have to select songs for the mass and also search for chords for the guitarist and pianist. I also had some difficulty at first when I didn’t much understand the simple technical ideas such as the guitarist require guitar chords to play music and also how to manage the song selections with the Liturgy coordinator. But, as time pass, I learnt from my experiences and with advices from the musicians regarding how music practices are normally held.

What I like about this post is that I have a say in the songs I select. Sometimes I do select my favourite songs if appropriate to the mass but most of the time I just trust in Holy Spirit to guide my selection. Also, I get to meet new people and also reaching out to the new members and telling them about the music ministry that we have in COSDU. Most of the ideas I heard from them, I always try to take it in while song surfing. I also enjoy knowing that each songs has its own unique place in the order of the mass and in my life which lead me to grow a deeper understanding and respect for the music and fellow musicians alike .

MUSIC COORDINATOR PORTFOLIO
On a general note, this post is open to students, (Melbourne University or other educational institutions). I strongly emphasis whoever is interested in this post must at least have a passion for music and the willingness to share their talents with COSDU. Not only that, preferably some technical musical background is also desirable as well as it will make this post much easier to manage especially during music practices. Even if you have none of the above, you must still be able to select the appropriate songs together with the Liturgy Coordinator for the mass i.e. 4 or 5 songs in total and coordinate the musicians i.e. when the music practices is to be held. So in hindsight, the singers and musicians are your top priority in this post.

In summary, to those who are interested in running for this post, please take note

1) Musical background is desirable but not essential

2) Willingness to learn

3) Have passion for music

4) Good organisation and time management skills

5) Make sure that some of the musicians have heard the songs before

(Likely chances that some of the COSDUans may have heard of it!)

6) Keep the musicians happy at all times (hint= TimTams)

7) Have fun and enjoy your time in the COSDU Committee of 2007/08

Note: If you require any further information regarding this post, please come and ask me. I am always happy to listen to your questions and hopefully I can give you the answers that you are seeking.

Denning

The Portfolio of the Social Activities Coordinator in the Committee

My Role, My Blessing

When I decided to run for the position of Social Activities Coordinator last year, I knew that it was always going to challenge me to step out of my comfort zone. In the past year, I have been blessed with this role in COSDU and it’s an experience I will carry with me for a long time to come. It’s not always just fun and games.

With the responsibility of keeping a spirit of togetherness and inclusiveness, there is always the pressure to ensure a sense of secularity and relaxation beyond the serious spiritual aspects during sessions. What I did not realize when I ran for this position was the amount of time I had to commit in organizing social activities beyond the Friday sessions; Scavenger Hunt, Night Market and Sports Day just to name a few. However, I was blessed with people who offered their services so selflessly in making it all possible.

I am thankful today that being Social Activities Coordinator has showed me the true value of the support system COSDU offers in being “a home away from home”. Sure, there were ups and downs along the way, but at the end of the day as I look back at the year I’ve had, I know that I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything else.

The fellowships, house parties, serious conversations, and laughter; they all form pieces of the puzzle that makes COSDU and I am thankful to be part of it.

Jonathan

The Portfolio of the Publicity Coordinator in the Committee

Being Publicity Coordinator is really just getting people to listen to your crap. heh. Na-ah...I was just kidding there. Publicity is to be PUBLIC. The easiest character to suit this role well would be a person being really open, easily approachable, funny, communicative, and just be a PUBLIC personality where everybody can just approach. That's the "inbox" for publicity ; )

The "outbox" on the other hand is even easier. A typical weekly task would be to figure out what to put in the weekly e-mail to members. This is normally done after consulting the Sessions Coordinator. To make things clearer, below are other typical tasks that come after the weekly emails:

1. Maintaining the COSDU email account,

2. Promoting COSDU to anyone you meet, if you can,

3. Touching base with members;

4. Be the source of contact for outside parties to approach or get in touch with COSDU.

I think that's about it. I cannot really say much as I believe this role really wraps itself around whoever takes it. This role used to have a longer name: Publicity and Liaison Officer for your information. Everyone in the past that has taken up this role has really had his/her own signature on it.

This role has so much of personal touch in the things you do that it becomes a unique position in COSDU to let your creativity flow and just have fun doing what you do. COSDU will benefit from this and you will surely benefit too from being part of something that shelters the COSDU community you love. Its a win-win situation = ) Go for it!

Ross

The Portfolio of the Social Justice Coordinator in the Committee

“But what can we do? The government determines how the country runs. Even if we try to make a difference, we can’t, because they determine everything. So what can we do?”

This was my very first question and challenge as the social justice minister. I was absolutely stumped. I recall blubbering something insignificant and feeling pretty silly and incompetent after that.

The point of my story is this: As Social Justice Coordinator, you tend to deal with incredibly difficult questions about the world. The mistake I made then was to assume that I needed to know the answers to all the difficult questions about the world…and of course you don’t.

Being Social Justice Coordinator, one will have to be in charge of updating the Justice & Peace noticeboard in the Chaplaincy, running a few social justice sessions in the semester, keeping COSDU in touch with the happenings of the world and to arrange some outreach work.

Sounds a lot, but believe me, it isn’t too hard because if you are truly passionate about social justice issues, you will feel that you need to do even more!

So…Who should run for this post?

Well, naturally it should be someone who has great passion for social justice issues. And I truly mean passionate because you should be prepared to spend evenings watching the news (only SBS World News Australia, of course!), reading a lot (newspapers are not enough), engaging in volunteer work with COSDU, attending forums and perhaps even the occasional protest (peaceful ones, of course) in the city!

Being Social Justice Coordinator truly requires one to move out of one’s comfort zone, to find out so much more about the issues within societies and to find an interesting way of relaying all that information to COSDU without being overbearing.

I’ve made the Social Justice post sound incredibly difficult and almost impossible. Task wise, it actually isn’t difficult at all. It only becomes difficult when one is challenged to not give up on a world that has become so unjust and broken.

Our God is very much alive in our world today. Only, we do not always recognize Him because He appears very fragile, very broken. And so, we give up. We question His existence. We start thinking that we are helpless.

But God is not lost in our unjust world. Instead, we have lost Him in our brokenness.

Being a Social Justice Coordinator means that we not only stand for peace and justice but that we are truly present, ready to run the race as a peacemaker.

Will you be a peacemaker?

Celine

Noticeboard Update & Environment Resources

To coincide with our environment session:

• Thinking of cycling? Check out what The Big Issue says, build up your confidence, hop on your bike and make a difference in the environment!

• In pictures: China's Three Gorges dam project

Also on the noticeboard is an article by Irene Khan, winner of the Sydney Peace Prize. Read what she has discovered about justice, equality and peace.

On a different note, I know that a few people were asking me about the websites I brought up during the environment session:

• Recycling Near You

A fantastic search engine which helps you decide what can and can't be recycled and where to find the nearest recyling location.

• Climate Challenge

The UK government's resources on climate and change and what we can do to help.

• Catholic Earthcare

Our call as Catholics to look after the earth. Plenty of updates on speakers and forums for those interested in doing and knowing something more about the environment from a Catholic point of view.

• Greenfleet

Especially for those who drive, Greenfleet plants 17 native trees to neutralise your car's greenhouse gas emissions.

Sister Carol Hogan's 20th Anniversary Reflection

Sister Carol Hogan, predecessor of Sister Theresa Ryan and founder of COSDU shares her journey with us.

Reflection on COSDU: Some Twenty Years on.

Firstly, loving congratulations to all the international students, whose generous commitment to COSDU for the past twenty years have enabled it to survive and flourish.

I liked to think of COSDU as the praying heart of the Melbourne University international students’ community, and especially of the Catholic international students. I looked forward to Friday nights as a time of the week, when I could be with a group of faithful, committed students, who gathered monthly for the celebration of the Eucharist and on the other Fridays to pray in a variety of ways for themselves, other students and the needs of the worlds. The students’ hunger for adult faith development was combined with their love of prayer, and clearly obvious as they researched religious topics themselves and invited expert guest speakers to address them.

COSDU members have always been characterised by their consistent and loving care and support of each other and to the most vulnerable members of the group, especially in times of crisis. This has been demonstrated in a thousand small ways, such as sharing resources and skills, listening to students’ stories, helping each other with studies and celebrating festivals. These features became so important to the first members, that they began to view COSDU as their “away-from-home” family. I counted myself as blest to have such a hospitable community to which I could introduce the students were preparing for adult baptism. I knew that they would be warmly welcomed.

I was always fascinated that COSDU students possessed amazing organisational skills, which included minute attention to detail, and creativity. Some of these skills were used in the preparation of artistic, prayerful and contemporary liturgies, which were always accompanied by excellent musicians and singers. These organisational skills were also used in planning the complex program Social Justice of visitations to the elderly and needy.

I think that enormous generosity has been a defining characteristic and the driving force of COSDU. International students, whose families are paying very high fees for their courses, have always found the time and energy to devote to the many functions of COSDU.

At the time of my retirement I reflected on the fact that my time with COSDU was like being a mother. I started with a good deal of experience with Australian university students but very little cultural experience. I started in a very small way and with much to learn. I loved and nurtured dozens of students, watched them grow into adulthood, pursue their careers, marry and give birth to their own children. So, I have become a “virtual faith” grandmother to children in South East Asia. My own faith has been enormously enriched by international students’ faith and generosity. It has been a privilege to share their faith journey. My loving thanks to every person, who has contributed to COSDU’s life over the past twenty years.

May our loving Sophia God continue to inspire and empower you all the days of your life. Thank you.

Sister Carol Hogan.

Noticeboard Update

2 short pieces this week:

The incident at Virgina Tech was tragic, but even more tragic that despite the tragedy, gun laws in America will unlikely be amended. So on the noticeboard this week, we explore who the largest gun manufacturers are and what the Control Arms campaign is doing.

On TV now is a fantastic program hosted by Cathy Freeman (ex champion sprinter) on the Aboriginal culture. Going Bush travels to Uluru and other rural communities, documenting the incredbile sense of community and connectedness to the earth that we are unaware of within the Aboriginal community.

Two Decades of Faithfulness to God’s Love on Campus!

Like Terence Kesavan, Sister Theresa Ryan, Chaplain to International Students and our spiritual director, shares with us her reflections as Cosdu reaches its landmark 20th anniversary on the campus of the University of Melbourne.

Sister Theresa journeying with us at the recent Easter Camp



Sister Theresa sharing in our achievement and joy of graduating

To the Catholic Overseas Students Down Under, Congratulations and Celebrations!

When Ramesh our lanky, likeable, liturgy coordinator approached me to write a blurb on this blog under conditions of strict secrecy, I wondered what he was up to. It’s so easy to miss out on celebrations in the seriousness of studying in Uni, and I’m glad he told me what the COSDU committee of 2007 was up to.

So it is with much pleasure that I write about a group of people who have brought much joy to one another, and I daresay to Melbourne University over the past twenty years. This special group of people has become part of my life since the winter of 2002, just three months after my arrival in Melbourne. Sr. Carol Hogan my predecessor, who birthed COSDU, gave me a short history of its growth from the tiny mustard seed to the spreading tree that it is now. When I took over that July, COSDU was a vibrant group of young people on fire with Christ, so I definitely received a very warm welcome.

Knowing history is one thing but living life with COSDU is something else. You have to experience something that is not tangible and yet so palpable. Each person in COSDU is so unique I could write volumes, because COSDU cannot be described without its members. I have been privileged to have worked with five committees and their respective communities, sharing their joys and disappointments as they arranged monthly celebrations of the Eucharist, Easter camps, AGMs, discussion, study and social justice sessions, sports activities, birthday and housewarming celebrations, (COSDUANs, many of whom come from countries where hospitality is an integral part of daily life, really do know how to celebrate especially around a table with any food) and the list goes on.

COSDU is constantly becoming, growing, changing, living and bearing fruit that will last. Over the past five years I have tasted the fruit and seen the face of God in each person. So all past and present COSDUANs, you have been and are Christ’s light on campus, go forth and be GOOD NEWS for all.

Sr. Theresa Ryan

Stay tuned and look out for the sharing of Sister Carol Hogan herself, founder of Cosdu.

Denning's Easter Camp Reflection 2007

Denning gives his take on Cosdu Easter Camp 2007

Now as I look back at the three days at Easter Camp 2007, I am so happy that I did not change my decision earlier of not coming to the camp. It was a great blessing for me as I brought back home more fond and special memories and made new friends along the way. I remember seeing all the familiar and new faces waiting ever so eagerly at Chaplaincy which brought a big smile on my face. At the same time, I saw many people so willingly and trustingly open their hearts and arms to embrace each other as a good friend.

If I hadn't come, I wouldn't have known how special and important my friends are. I have re-kindled old friendships which pulled apart due to my busy working life. I have also forged new friendships which in turn hope to build on. What more, I saw an immense support, love and laughter in everyone for each other. One special moment when I receive affirmation notes from my friends. It was there where I met God in person. He not only reassures that he will take care of me and my worries but also gave the needed support and guidance to move on.

read more from Denning's post