“The outlook of Blessed Joseph Allamano was very similar to the one of Pope Francis. They share the same concern: the Church is called to reach out to those who are far away”. This was the central thought of Msgr. Bootkoski, Bishop emeritus of our Diocese, in his homily at the Consolata Feast in Somerset. Accompanied by three permanent Deacons and the four members of our Community he presided over the Celebration in honor of Our Lady, on June 18, 2106. He pointed out that the Consolata Missionaries are never lonely, because they have the Mother of Jesus who comforts, consoles them. Moreover, from Her they draw the source of consolation for all. The Diocese of Metuchen is blessed to have them – continues the Bishop – as they help the local Church with their ministry and keep alive in her its missionary vocation.
Father Van Hager is given his Missionary Mandate
During the Eucharist, Father Van Hager, assigned to Colombia, received his Missionary Mandate. The Bishop presented him the Book of the Gospel and sent him to announce its content to the peoples; then he handed him the Crucifix: both compendium of Christian life and source of strength and inspiration of the missionary.
Consolata Statue carried in Procession
Procession in our compound with the sun setting
The Knights of Columbus escorted the statue of Our Lady during the procession that followed the Eucharist. A nice breeze blows through the tree leaves, while the sun is setting in a bright clear sky. The procession touches the Residence and reaches the White House. Our steps go hand in hand with the Hail Maries of the Rosary prayed in five languages: English, Tagalog, French, Spanish and Arabic. These languages reflect the various descents of the faithful, the colorful picture of the congregation who follows the statue singing and praying.
The Knights of Columbus escort the statue of the Consolata
Rev. Joseph Kabali, Frs. Timothy Gatitu and Peter Ssekajugo at the concelebration
Little Gabrielle sings to the Bishop a hymn that she has composed in honor of Our Lady
As we were having the procession, the hall were the liturgy had been held was converted in dining hall. At our arrival back at the Mission Center, we find a dozen of volunteers who served us the main course (complements of the Consolata community), and a table full of home made desserts, prepared and donated by many friends. The Bishop and all of us seat at different tables. We crown the evening breaking the bread of friendship with all who have joined us in honoring our beloved Consolata and share with us the one mission of the Church to the whole world.
Paolo Fedrigoni