The Trellis

One House At A Time

2007-05-24T12:49:00.000-04:00

Until I make more time to keep this updated in a more aesthetically appealing format this will have to do. Below you'll find some of the latest reviews of The Karol Wojtyla Theatre Festival, now open in Times Square NYC.

We're evangelising through art...one house at a time.

Thanks for your support, prayers, and encouragement! If you haven't been to see us yet, please come on by...

In Him,
M.

http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0702925.htm

Years after Pope John Paul II visits N.Y., his plays do likewise

By Harry ForbesCatholic News ServiceNEW YORK (CNS) --

Playwrights Tom Stoppard and Harold Pinter needn't worry about their names being usurped in posterity's annals by Karol Wojtyla, the archbishop of Krakow, Poland, who became Pope John Paul II. But there is much to admire in the late pope's drama, "The Jeweler's Shop," currently on view in New York, courtesy of the Storm Theatre, the first in an ambitious and praiseworthy series of all his major works.The 1960 play is probably the best-known title (if any can truly be considered well-known) of the former actor's theatrical work. There was a movie with Burt Lancaster and Olivia Hussey in 1988.

On stage, in Boleslaw Taborski's translation of the original Polish, the definition of "play" is stretched to the limit. The playwright himself slyly subtitled it "A Meditation on the Sacrament of Matrimony, Passing on Occasion Into a Drama" when it was first published, as if to acknowledge the lack of dramatic incident.

Still, it's a fascinating piece.In the first of three acts, Andrew (Kristopher Kling) proposes to Teresa (Elizabeth Wirth), and they stand transfixed before the titular shop window (the unseen jeweler being a God figure), ruminating on their union and future as exemplified by the rings. In the second, unhappy wife Anna (Karen Eke) bemoans the sorry state of her marriage to the distant Stefan (Anthony Russo) and concerned Adam (Peter Dobbins) counsels the unhappy woman who might be contemplating infidelity. And finally the son of the first couple, Christopher (Chris Keveny), and Monica (Lara Theodos), the daughter of the second, proclaim their love, despite the latter's dysfunctional childhood and the former's insecurities about growing up without a father, who was killed in the war. The play ends on a conciliatory note for Anna and Stefan.

The problem is that there's very little interaction among the characters. Perhaps this was the style of the Rhapsodic Theater, of which the young dramatist was a founder. Nearly all the dialogue is in the form of inner monologue. The second act is particularly obtuse, with allegorical allusions to the wise and foolish virgins, and Anna waiting for a "bridegroom" who ultimately appears bearing the dreaded face of Stefan.In any case, the author seems most concerned with setting forth his ideas on the nature of love and marriage, and the role of ego as a hindrance to true love, insights later expanded in his theology of the body.

Wirth is outstanding among a cast that succeeds to a remarkable degree in speaking the impossibly poetic dialogue with naturalistic cadences, but she plays with particular sincerity. So, too, production elements are simple but first-rate, including Dobbins' and Robert W. McMaster's sensitive joint staging, Todd Ivins' workable set, Michael Abrams' atmospheric lighting, Jennifer Lustig's period costumes (spanning the 1930s through the '60s), and sound designer Scott O'Brien's occasional background music.

Next up is the 1949 play, "Our God's Brother" (June 1-17) about Albertine Brother Adam Chmielowski (aka Brother Albert), a freedom fighter and painter canonized in 1989. In the fall, there are promised readings of "Jeremiah," "Job," "Reflections on Fatherhood" and "Radiation of Fatherhood."

This worthy festival demonstrates that even after his early acting days Pope John Paul remained a true man of the theater. Despite talkiness, the work's insights into humanity ring unerringly true. And though technically off-Broadway, the Times Square locale puts the late pontiff practically on the Great White Way, an extraordinary circumstance that would no doubt please him.

The Storm Theatre is located at 145 W. 46th St. Tickets are available by phone at (212) 868-4444, or online at www.smarttix.com.

- - -Forbes is director of the Office for Film & Broadcasting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. More reviews are available online at www.usccb.org/movies.

If you didn't like Brecht before...

2006-08-24T13:36:00.000-04:00

...You will learn what it means to love him, love his creation, love his insight. And you just might learn to like Kushner too...or at least appreciate it...

If anyone happens to be in NYC before Sept. 3rd you MUST go to see Mother Courage and Her Children at Shakespeare in the Park. I'm in the process of writing my very first "fan" letter, and I'm sending it to not only Mr. Kushner, but Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, George C. Wolfe, and maybe to Brecht himself (yes I know he's dead...with God anything's possible)

I'll be honest. I tried to be cool and like Brecht a while ago, but I didn't really understand him. His whole "non-conformity" bent was my main attraction, but now I'm starting to get it, even if I don't always agree with it. This production helps you get it. Kushner's translation is so accessible. Of course I don't have full command of the German language myself, so I couldn't possibly begin to critique it on that basis, but from what I understand through different critical sources, this translation does the original much justice. Granted the language itself could be rather rough on the "discriminating" ear, but that's a risk you have to take. In the grand scheme, it communicates supremely.

If you're a Republican you might not like it. Its probably safe to say you'll hate it. And I think even most Democrats out there will say the same. It just goes to show that hate transcends political boundaries. Don't get scared, I'm not turning Marxist or anything. This play speaks truth. The actors really communicate, and Meryl Streep really is one of the greatest actors....

First time in a really long time, if ever, when I've seen (I say seen because this is different, obviously, from being in) a play, that I have had a "transcendent" experience. I didn't float off into nirvana, or go into ecstasy like Teresa of Avila. It wasn't trance-like. Don't get scared. It really just accomplished its goal. I think you know what I'm talking about.

It went beyond the limits of our time and space, our flesh...and we were in dialogue with each other (audience::audience, actor::actor, and especially audience::actor)...really communicating what it means to be human, and how desperate we ALL are too. You know what it says? It says, it doesn't matter what country you're from, what gender you are, what age you are, what religion you are. War is atrocious. And maybe peace is too. This play is not a fiction. If you want to learn what life is like for human beings, watch this.

Yes, there are some very strong opinions, very strong choices. And what I admire the most about the translation, direction, and acting is just that. Even if I don't agree with a view (but honestly, this show in my opinion doesn't attempt to sway you're political or religious affiliation... that would be naive) --even if I don't agree with a view, the fact that these people have committed to such choices is admirable, and an example for us, especially as artists, to learn from.

There are some technical elements that need refining; light & sound cues, fumbled or dropped lines here and there, the occasional misplaced prop. I only discovered after the show that what I saw was only a preview performance, and the official opening wasn't until 21 August. (Incidentally, did you know that, 14 August 2006, is 50 years since Brecht died?)

Even after my initial reaction and excitment I can say that I'm still moved by it. It really makes you think... It's been a couple of days now, and I still feel like I was witness to a major world event.

I had to share. Thanks for "listening". Hope you can appreciate this too.

Ciao.

Bella Vita

2006-08-14T21:58:00.000-04:00

Reflection of a jet plane moves over Manhattan.
In the mottled marble of my lunch break altar.

You can see everything in reflections,
and speculate their end.
You can say anything of reflections,
and contemplate your end.

Reflection, dimmed by shadow--
Shadow of doubt, paranoia, anxiety...
Lack of trust in false giants.

Yet, clarified by light--
Light of Ratio--ineffective sans Fides--
Bouncing beams outline a shape
and hint at the shape to come.
So even the simplest shape can rise...

Temping

2006-07-31T22:53:00.000-04:00

After the temp job this morning didn't work out, due to lack of workload for me to be beneficial to the group, I got a little frustrated. I don't like having to do office work. I hate sitting behind a computer screen all day...at night its fine, for fun, but I don't want to do it all day. I want to be with people.

So I came to some realizations today...and I just wanted everyone to know that I'm going to be fine. I'm sure you weren't losing sleep over it...and that's okay that you weren't...

Anyway...I realized that my main obstacle right now is my lack of patience. I'd like to have my 20 years worth of accomplishment, accomplished today. So, now that I've recognized that I can move on and be happy with the temp. jobs for now, until I work my way around.

Monty, this Indian guy I met at the park today helped me realize a lot of this...

We discovered that its much more fun to be a little anti-social, maybe less wealthy, smoke rolled cigarettes, go to Off-Broadway shows, and people watch, than to try to be the center of attention at the Bryant Park Grill, have more money than you know what to do with (or at least a credit card bill that pretends you do), and go to corporate theater like Lion King. Basically...be a non-conformist.

I'm okay with the fact that I might have to temp for a while...I think its humbling, and maybe God is going to be able to teach me more through this than anything else. I hope he does. Who needs to be at the top? Its all ego anyway...and its lonely. I'd rather be a groundling...meeting dynamic people in the park than superficial ones at a bar.

So...sales jobs, office jobs, whatever...I'm game. BTW...if anyone knows of anything in the political field, or diplomatic relations, that may have need of someone like...me...let me know.

Where Have I Been???

2006-07-31T22:48:00.000-04:00

My goodness its been forever. Reggie's posted about burgers, and corona...all about Sicily, and I haven't done a thing. I'm such a bad person. But basically it comes down to this. Rome was the Lord's most amazing gift to me. I can't thank him enough, except to do his will. He taught me about listening, about patience and about love...and also that I will be working on those things for the rest of my life. So thank goodness for that too. It means my life isn't over!!

I figured I could write a little brief about my current situation...actually, its kinda long. Be careful.

On Monday I will begin doing some temporary work in NYC for the Union for Reform Judaism (www.urj.org) Apparently its some kind of research/updating work for this non-profit company that is well...Jewish...so I'm excited! I'll be working with a Rabbi...so maybe we'll have a chance to exchange about our faith life. I'll let you all know how my conversion process goes....

After the mission I went home to my parents for a few days, spent a wonderful time playing with my nephews, and then it was back to NYC for the past week pounding the pavements (looking for work), meeting with friends, and other eccentric personalities, and trying to readjust back to "normal" city life. Have I told you how much I love New York City?? Indulge me for a moment, and let me elaborate...

I don't have a place to live yet, so I was crashing at my brother's apartment in Jersey, using his internet access to send out a gazillion resumes to places ranging from theatre administrative jobs, to secretarial work. There is another possibility for a youth minister thing that came up too, but we'll see...

Tuesday there was a fundraiser for a Bioethics Consulting company an acquaintance of mine is starting (www.bioethicsinternational.org). It was on the rooftop bar of a huge building on 5th Ave. with this fantastic view of the Empire State Building (currently the tallest building in NYC, after the towers collapsed), the Chrysler Building, and some other impressive architecture of my fair city! Comparing NYC to Rome is like comparing apples & oranges, but let me just tell you that it was one breathtaking and beautiful view! When I grow up I want a rooftop like that.
So this fundraiser party was only one among many other social gatherings for various Fortune 500 companies and personalities, on the rooftop that evening. There are so many young professionals in NYC! And they need wicked amounts of evangelisation. When I first got there I was so overwhelmed it almost made me sick. Coming from 9 months in such a relatively serene environment, to this---full of glamour, fashion, ego, and attitude, was quite a shock. So I found myself a nice little alcove in the back with a couple of closer friends and tried my best to wean myself into socializing. Luckily, I didn't have to try too hard, and people came to me. (Good evangelisation tactic ;) I think I talked more that night than I have in the past few months. I talked mostly about Rome, simply because people asked...but my purpose in going to this thing was to network, get my face back out there, meet new people, and heck--if evangelisation came into it too, that was the icing on the cake! A lot of people were really intrigued by the ESM, and many of them have heard of the Emmanuel Community...so they were eager to hear more about what we do. I met a few artists, and am trying to build up my contact list for future art events. One project that developed from these encouters was to do a similar kind of fundraiser and incorporate some aspects of the Centro Art thing into it. So in due time, and with tons 'o prayer, hopefully that will happen. I'll let you know.....

BUT...on Monday (and then Thursday)...something else huge happened! I'm very excited!!! Some of you may start shaking your heads and questioning my sanity, but...I know its the right thing...and it will hopefully help me to achieve those 'larger' goals I talk about...

Ok...well you know about that job as a campus minister I was interviewing for? Well on Thursday...I got a phone call...

On Monday I met with my friend Peter who's the artistic director for the theatre company I was working with. He had been calling me the whole week before pestering me about when I was going to be in the city. Finally we meet...he lays out his desires to me:

Him: "We need you, we want you, blah, blah, blah..."

Me: "Yes!!!"

So basically, for this entire season (September-June) I will be stage managing the first two plays of the season (Ross by Terence Rattigan--about Lawrence of Arabia set in the Middle East--so we need Arabic looking actors... There are only men in the play. 22 of them. Lucky me! The second play is called Linnea, I don't know the author, and its an adaptation of Dostoevsky's The Idiot, about the redemption of an exotic dancer).

Then in MAY!!! If things go the way they're planned...I will be producing/publicizing, assistant directing on one, and fully directing another, of the Festival of JPII's plays!!

Why will you start shaking your heads in confusion?? Well....

#1--I won't be getting paid financially, but the experience, exposure, and contacts I am making will be very fruitful.

#2--The phone call I received on Thursday was from the priest I interviewed with...and I turned the job down.

Hopefully, we'll be able to work collaboratively together in the future, especially when it comes to the arts and evangelisation, but I just know that at this point with my involvement and full desire to be devoted to the theatre, and the community, there is no way I could physically, emotionally, or mentally devote my time to both the Campus Ministry job and to the season at hand.

I came home this afternoon to my parents' and my Dad was pretty upset at me. I don't know if we'll talk this weekend or not, but of course he doesn't understand and doesn't favor my decision. I know this path is going to take a lot more work on my part, but I almost think that its MUCH better this way. I really believe its going to make me grow much more than if I had a job that fulfilled all of my comforts.

So even when I suck at putting together an Excel spreadsheet, and it challenges me to find office/secretarial work--it just means I have to work that much harder at learning Excel so I can get that Administrative Assistant job that pays 35K a year. One thing my friends, interviewers, and others kept reminding me the past couple of days was that I am, "still young". I embrace that! I don't have all the answers, and its an incredibly humbling thing, but it is doing wonders for me. Especially, after a night full of ego boosting from other encounters.

Spiritually, I've been trying to stick to the daily mass thing, but sometimes it gets a little hectic with the interviews and such. I suppose I need to be more disciplined in that. But one of the joys I've found in keeping up with some kind of consistent spiritual food, is diving into scripture daily...even if its just a bite. Recording those passages, and other thoughts, I've been trying to keep a scripture/evangelisation prayer journal. (I found some of those great Clairefontaine notebooks that Siska used regularly), and its absolutely indespensible to me now.

I could go on, but I'll spare you. These are the highlights. More soon???

Where to begin?

2006-02-23T16:54:00.000-05:00

Where to begin? Or continue rather? It’s been terribly long since my last entry, Je comprends…
Oh yes, I could start there. I recently returned from France…Paray-le-Monial, which is about an hour from Dijon, which may mean nothing to many of you, but it’s in the middle of France. This place is known as a special pilgrimage site for many Catholics because it is the site where Jesus appeared to a woman named Marguerite Marie Alacoque in the 16th century. It was there that He showed her His sacred heart. She has since been canonized a saint because of the devotion she showed to Him, and consequently compelled others to do the same. The message of Paray, of Jesus’ Sacred Heart, is one of love—total, self-giving, pure love for the Lord and for all humanity. The ESM Roma met there with the three other Emmanuel Community mission schools (from Paray-le-Monial; Altotting, Germany; and Vienna, Austria). It was an historical event, because never before have all four of the schools come together for a weekend such as this to work together and get to know one another.

The weekend doubled as a winter retreat for youth run by the Emmanuel Community, hence the reason why we were there. If you can, imagine a small-scale version of a Steubenville Conference. Or if that makes no sense to you either, it’s essentially a time of praise (prayerful, energetic singing), adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Mass, times of teaching, testimony, silence and fellowship. It was a real gift to be there and to experience the peace of Paray-le-Monial, after the hustle and bustle of Rome. I also helped out as part of the music ministry team by singing the English versions of the songs we prayed with. That was also a gift and a great learning experience. It’s certainly something I’ve found I have a great strength for, and one that I want to continually develop.

Another great joy of this weekend was making the decision to take a first step into the Emmanuel Community. It’s called a step of ‘Welcome and Discernment’, and basically means that I’m just checking the community out. I have essentially been doing that by living the life of the school, through praise, adoration, daily mass, and mission work. So this step, which could last a couple of years even, is for me to discern whether or not the charism and life of the community is something that will help me go deeper in my faith, and most importantly bring the life and light of Christ to others. It’s not binding. I’m not necessarily going to be a nun, nor will I have to give them my first-born child. It is a great joy and freedom to have made a step towards a commitment like this. I have such a desire to continue doing something for my faith, for my family—the family of brothers and sisters I have “acquired” in the community, and the family of the Body of Christ in the world.

Another huge thing we have experienced since the last time I wrote was the mission in Ireland (I’m going backwards). We spent the weeks after Christmas vacation preparing teachings, classroom encounters, testimonies, and skits. When we got to Newbridge, County Kildare, we were welcomed by so many parishioners and community members…some who were anticipating our arrival and some who only discovered the mission as we met them on the streets, in the schools, and in the pubs. Yes, I did say pubs! One of our particularly effective ministries was to be present in the pubs, where we engaged people in speaking about our lives and how Christ has affected us. Sometimes it was incredibly difficult to make the first step to communicate, but after a while there were many encounters that truly showed the Holy Spirit working in their hearts and ours. Many lives were touched.

We also spent much of the daytime hours in the various primary and secondary schools in the parish. In the former we sang songs and played games, and in the latter we even sang some songs too, but our main focus there was to give our testimonies. This part for me was the most interesting, moving, challenging, and profound part of the mission. After spending much of the time in the boys and co-ed schools, the time I spent in the all girls’ school was very rewarding. That is not to say of course that I didn’t like the boys. It was just that I felt like I found my particular niche and strength in speaking to the young women in the Holy Family secondary school. I could relate to them, being a young woman myself, and felt a certain kind of call to work with youth in this type of capacity in the future. One of the young ladies I encountered came up to me just before we left, and intimated to me that our coming had changed her life, and it brought her a whole new way of looking at life. That not only touched my heart, and made me want to cry, but it helped me firm up my desire to teach. Whereas before I knew that teaching was something I could do, now I think teaching is something I really want to do.

You may recall from previous posts that the idea of a ‘bridge’ is a recurring image in our lives at the school this year. The motif still persisted with the mission in Ireland because before we even had any chance to mention this to them, the parish team themselves came up with the theme of building a ‘new bridge’ for Newbridge. And as it turns out they are building a new physical bridge over the river that runs through the town. We really took Christ from the tabernacle to the streets on our mission, and praise God for the people we met and hearts that were changed. My Christmas vacation was blessed as well.

I got the chance to spend much time with my whole family and Stephen, all twelve of us. My nephews are growing up so well. They are incredibly intelligent, funny, and cute. Lots of energy…God save their mother! Of course there was not enough time to spend with each of my brothers and sister, but I think overall it was a great time for the whole family. I personally felt much peace. And of course seeing my girlfriends was awesome as well. I miss them, and wish we could all be doing exactly what we wanted to do, in the same country…

My dear friend, and European traveling companion, went and got herself hitched on January 7th, and I was honored to be a part of her wedding. It was beautiful, and I can’t wait till she has babies…all in due time of course ;)

So...I’m going to sign off for now. We’ll be traveling to the Netherlands in a couple of weeks for another mission, so please keep us in your prayers. We’ll need them greatly. Easter is just around the corner as well, so if anyone is interested in making a retreat for the Easter Triduum, attached is a link to some information about it.

I hope the New Year is treating you well, and please let me know if there is anything you’d like me to pray for. Pace!

Inside the Vatican Palace

2005-12-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

We were granted a special visit inside the Vatican Palace yesterday to visit one of the Pope's private chapels...unfortunately he wasn't there with us, BUT just seeing the chapel was moving in itself.
The Redemptoris Mater Chapel, commissioned by John Paul II, which you can see from the link (http://www.vatican.va/redemptoris_mater/index_en.htm) is awe-inspiring and breathtaking! I was told it was incredibly striking, but no words could really express the power of this chapel. Aside from having the special priviledge to walk through the hallowed halls of our pontiff, walking into the chapel, who's brilliant colors, and dramatic imagery were so masterfully displayed, I was moved to tears. It took me a few minutes to regain my composure....Once I did, looking around at all of the different scenes--absorbing the symbolism, the drama, the TRUTH, GOODNESS & BEAUTY!!!! I was reaffirmed in my convictions as an artist.

This is the kind of work that inspires, unifies, and moves all of humanity, and the world is a much fuller place because of its existence!

We were given the history of the chapel, and description of the images by a Jesuit priest who lives with Fr. Marko Rupnik, S.J., the artist who created the chapel, and afterwards we explored for a little while the little details of it. Other interesting portions were the crucifix and ambo--all in keeping with the style of the chapel, but with their own unique character and detail.

We sang a song to Mary "Totus Tuus Maria", a song we're all very much in love with...I'll have to sing it for you when I get back. And then we left. The culminating part being when Teresa, Therese and I were saluted by the Swiss Guards as we exited the palace gates.

It's already Gaudete Sunday...only two weeks left till Christmas...May the rest of this Advent season be a time for you to truly contemplate the joy of our Savior's birth, his humility and poverty, and may our union with him through our Mama Mary help us all to realize our true call as Christians to love and serve each other through our own gifts and talents.

Totus Tuus
AMDG

Pace!

Better Late Than Never

2005-12-11T09:32:00.000-05:00

Below are some pictures from the Lisbon mission:

This is us in Vasco De Gama with most of the crew

Lunch in Fatima

The basilica in Fatima

After the ICNE outside of Jeronimos Semiary

More picutres and updates to come...

Mucho Gusto Porto

2005-11-22T18:13:00.000-05:00

We returned from Lisbon, Portugal last Sunday evening after the International Congress for the New Evangelization (ICNE), where we had been the previous eight days. There were so many blessed experiences, both for us as missionaries, and for those we were ministering to. The Congress itself drew about 1,500 or so people from Portugal and around the world. The Emmanuel Community had a very strong presence and was in fact responsible for leading much of the mission activity, as well as liturgical portions of the program.

The ESM was stationed in Portela’s Cristo Rei (Christ the King) parish, and we received such a warm and generous welcome there, that it was quite difficult to leave. All of the parishioners, and especially our host families really embraced us, and I believe they changed our lives as much as we changed theirs. In addition to our mission activity in Vasco de Gama, which I will elaborate on later, we organized two nights of mission in the parish. The first evening was for the youth and there was a Brazilian band that played outside, while we had adoration with music inside. The second evening was primarily for the adult generation and consisted of adoration and prayer with some music. The turnout was very good, and many of the parishioners also attended some of the events organized by the ICNE on the following nights.

Our mission in Vasco de Gama, which is pretty much a glorified Grand Central Station/Mall, was where we concentrated most of our mission work. As one of the other students here put it, the mission in Vasco de Gama was the place where, through our activity, we discovered our poverty with the gift of the salvation of God’s Grace. We learned so much about ourselves through the encounters we had with others. We were tested in ways many of us have never experienced before. Basically it was our job to reach out to the passersby on their way to the mall, home from work, or school, and invite them to either, come to the adoration tent we had set up on one of the levels—yes we had the Blessed Sacrament exposed everyday that week for people to come to—or to participate in some of the events that were planned for the Congress as a whole. We performed some skits/tableau presentations with various Christian messages. They went over really well. It was amazing to see how people stopped and really looked. Many were very touched, and it is our hope that even those people who didn’t stay around very long, at least could take some of the joy of the message, with them on their way.

It was also really difficult, at least for me, at points. The concept of working together as a team is a little challenging, for everyone I suppose, but we just had to make sacrifices and realize the ultimate goal was to be a light of Christ to the world. For me, it wasn’t until one of our last days in Vasco de Gama where I actually felt like I had achieved anything. I know that there were certainly encounters I’d had before that were important, and indeed my prayers have helped so many. But one particular day for me was truly blessed because of two people I met. One was a fifteen-year-old girl on the train. I invited her to a concert that night because it looked like she enjoyed music. I don’t know if she ever made it, but getting to talk to her on the train was so great. She’s an artist too, and we had so much in common…a common passion for creating and exploring truth! It was such a pleasure and blessing to meet her.

The other encounter was with a man from Mozambique, who’d been living in Norway, but was going to visit his family in southern Portugal. I was paired up with Fr. Thierry and we ended up speaking to this guy, who’s name is Flo. We invited him to join us at adoration in the tent. He was reluctant, and asked us why we had to go to someplace to be with God, if God was everywhere, and he could experience Him in his heart. We explained it in relation to a friendship. You have friends, and while you can carry the memory of them with you; experiences, joys, empathy in sadness—or you can talk to them on the phone, it’s just not the same as going to visit them in person, to be with them, at their house. He was moved by that and decided to give it a shot. Turns out—an hour and a half later—after spending a few moments in the tent, and more discussion—that he made the choice to go to confession; the first one of his life, even though he was raised Catholic. It was such an amazing gift for all of us of God’s mercy working actively our hearts. What a blessing to be able to close out our mission work in Vasco de Gama with that experience!

The experience of the other conferences and events organized for the Congress were just as fruitful. In addition to the testimonies, teachings, and liturgies we celebrated, three major events to speak of would be Fatima, the evenings of mercy, and the procession on Saturday. On Wednesday November 9th we took a pilgrimage to Fatima, which was the first time I’d been there. I’ve been to Lourdes, so I think I have at least one more major Marian pilgrimage site to get to before I die (i.e. Medjugoria). This pilgrimage was extra special to me because it was on the day of my best friend’s birthday, so I got to pray for her all day long. It was also the first time I think I really discovered and embraced the message of Fatima—to pray the rosary daily for sinners, for the conversion of the world. I was literally floored by it, and walking into the basilica I couldn’t help but fall to my knees in prayer. We didn’t have as much time as we would have liked to spend there, but I did get to visit the tombs of Jacinta and Francisco Marta; and I decided that if I ever have children I’m going to name one of them Jacinta—mainly because my Mom wanted to name me that, but my Dad said no.

On Thursday and Friday evenings we had a night of Mercy in one of the churches in Lisbon called San Domingoes (St. Dominic). In addition to veneration of the Blessed Sacrament there was also confession, and prayer teams available for those who wished to be prayed over. I was also asked to help lead prayer through singing. With the other Emmanuel Community school’s representation, the music ministry team numbered about fifteen. There are so many talented musicians; guitar players, flutists, pianists, and singers in this group, and it was a pleasure to pray with and learn from them. The church was jam packed both evenings, with young and old alike. It was especially touching to see families coming up to light a candle and spend a moment in prayer in front of the Blessed Sacrament. And I think nearly every priest for about four hours was occupied with someone confessing.

Saturday was for us the culmination of the Congress. That evening there was a procession throughout the streets of Lisbon with the original statue of Our Lady of Fatima. She had been outside of Fatima only twice before. Once to Rome and the other to Lisbon. The procession drew a crowd of about 1 million people, following her in prayer and song. It was truly an awesome sight to behold. She was then placed in San Domingoes where there was confession available and overnight adoration. I went in with a few friends for about an hour, and even after that, the church was still packed, and difficult to get into and out of. It was such a time of grace.

We completely exhausted ourselves that week, but the contacts we made and experiences we had, have touched us all, and there is no doubt it will help us in our following missionary encounters. Please keep us, and the city of Lisbon in your prayers.

”Personal holiness, and intimate union with Christ, are the source and efficacy of evangelization.” JPII

Canonizations!

2005-10-23T11:48:00.000-04:00

Wow! Two e-mails within the week. It's only because I have a bit of time, and today was such an amazing, Grace-filled day.
After going to a sacred music concert last evening, where we heard variations on the Ave Maria and Magnificat, and were invited to the reception following, shmoozing it up with the Italian musicians, today was quite possibly the icing on the cake.
Granted, we had to wake up before the break of dawn, to be at San Pietro by 7:30, but surprisingly I had a relatively easy time of it. I'm sure my body will be hating me for it tomorrow though.

Anyway, today was the closing mass of the Synod, the closing mass of the Year of the Eucharist, and, the canonization of five new saints! One of the saints was from Chile, so there were about 5,000 Chilenos present, dancing, and singing their praises for this model saint of poverty and charity! In addition there were two saints from the slavic countries; Ukraine, and my homeland Poland, and two from Italy--one being a Capuchin friar from the 1700s. (I like to call the Capuchins, Capuchinos)

Papa Benedetto gave a beautiful homily imploring us to keep the Eucharist as our center because it is THE source and summit of our strength. He reiterated the necessity and grace of it, which we can receive through adoration and frequent reception of the Eucharist. He called us to charity by emulating Christ in the "breaking of bread", and by following the example of the saints, especially those canonized today. He also asked for our prayers, for himself that he may lead us with humility, and for all of the synodal fathers, as they continue to implement the proclamations of the Synod in their pastoral work.

All around it was a very rewarding day. I wish you all could have been there with me, to experience the richness and joy of the Faith. I pray that in some way you will be able to through this full, albeit brief account.

Pacem Sempre!

Vive il Papa!!

2005-10-19T18:33:00.000-04:00

Oh!I saw the Pope today! We went to one of the Wednesday Audiences,where he spoke a little...meaning he gave a teaching on a particularsubject, namely on Psalm 130, about redemption and the need forforgiveness to lift us out of despair. He greeted the people from the different languages and countries. He greeted our school inparticular, and then he drove around in the little "pope mobile" andblessed everyone as he went past. I ended up getting a view of him upclose...about 4 feet away. So that was a really blessed experience!

One of my "jobs" here is to develop and write our newsletter, whichwill go out to former students, and donors/patrons/interested parties. One of the other students, Matteo from Milano, and I are in charge of it. I'm pretty excited about it, because I get to use my writing talents a little bit..and my creative organizational skills as well. It's going to be a lot of work on top of all my other responsibilities...like studying, cleaning, evangelizing, and community life...plus relaxation time, and mission preparation...but it's going to be really fruitful for future students as well, we hope.

That's basically what's been happening. The first couple of weeks were kind of rough, adjusting to community life from living by myself and being a TOTALLY independent person. But I think I've found my little niche, and I love discovering everyone's little quirks, even when they're not so accomodating. It makes us all so human, and they're so good for using in emotional recall! HAHAHA...I can't take anything forgranted!

I'm actually able to use my skills as an artist here, and it's so relieving. I feel so much more clear-headed than I did in NY the past couple of months, and I know now that this is ABSOLUTELY where I'm supposed to be for the year.

We were in Assisi the first week, had a really fruitful time there, discovering the sprituality and grace of Assisi and St. Francis. I went back to my favorite place in the world...on top of the mountain, in a little crevice, just absorbing creation. We discovered our talents as a community there...we have so many artistic minded people. Almost everyone loves to sing, especially gospel/blues type testifying...we're thinking of using it as anevangelization tool.

And we're going to Lisbon, Portugal (stopover in Fatima) in just a couple of weeks, to take part in the International Congress for theNew Evangelization, which will bring together several communities,from all over the world, to participate in a city wide mission. It is with the hope of discovering the successes and needs for evangelization in the modern world.

To wrap it up...I'm having the time of my life, but I miss all of my friends and family. The ideal situation would be to have all of you here with me, but since that's not possible, I hope this update will be able to keep us connected.

Pictures will come with the next update...Peace & Joy to all...and Benedict XVI extends his blessing to all of you as well!

Vive il Papa!!

"Our youth is the bridge from the tabernacle to the streets"

"De"-Briefing

2005-09-21T14:13:00.000-04:00

How do you pack 9 months worth of stuff into 2 suitcases and a carry on?
More on the chore later...
Pacem!
Mish

Still Seeking

2005-09-01T13:32:00.000-04:00

Hey there all...

So after going to the visa office today and finding out I pretty much have no chance of obtaining the visa for religious purposes, which I'm supposed to have, it looks like I'll be going visa-less....which I hope will be okay, because quite frankly I don't want to be "curteously" asked to leave the country like my dear brother was when he attempted to go to England. I don't think that will happen. But that's the least of my worries right now.

I am however still trying to find donations, but it seems like most people have either decided against helping me out financially, or else they're just sitting on it till the last minute. Which is fine, but I'd like to have a little bit of confidence that I'll be able to make it over there and back again without too much uncertainty.

Maybe this is just another test. As usual, I think I'm failing miserably. But, if I don't go I can accept that. It just means God's got some kind of other adventure in store for me. Oh to live! That would be the greatest adventure! One moment at a time I suppose. Damn, it's hard though.

And then I start feeling guilty, because quite frankly, I've got it pretty nice. I mean, as far as it stands right now, I have a roof over my head, clothes on my back, and food in my tummy (yummy). All I have to do is think about the poor people in New Orleans that don't have that. Or those suffering in Africa and Iraq....and then that snaps me back into reality.

Sometimes I just feel like I'm wasting my time....that I should be doing more for people who don't have. It's the age-old rift between the have and have nots that gets to me. And I need to do something more about it.

Going someplace to try and "figure my life out" or expecting that once I'm there I will automatically learn how to be charitable is an escape route. It has to start right here, right now. In the moment. For all of us.

May God have mercy on us all.

Till later!

Deductions

2005-08-02T15:13:00.000-04:00

If you are interested in making a tax deductible donation, they can be sent to the following address:

Michelle Kafel
c/o Emmanuel Community
P.O. Box 7303
New York, NY 10150

I appreciate anything you can help with, even if it is only $5. Please make checks payable to: The Emmanuel Community, in the memo line: Michelle Kafel ESM. You will all most certainly be in my prayers.
Check back frequently for updates!

Ciao!

Formal Plea

2005-07-21T16:04:00.000-04:00

Since graduating from Franciscan University of Steubenville in May 2004, where I earned a BA in English with a Concentration in Drama, I’ve been living, and pursuing a career in theatre, in New York City. Last summer I had the opportunity to attend an intensive training session at The Circle in the Square Theatre School, and to say that I learned a lot about myself, and my craft, would be an understatement. From there I was privileged to be a part of the Cathedral of St. Patrick’s choir, and I continue to be involved with various art events and theatrical productions.

Coming to the city, I was rather anxious about how my formation and beliefs as a Catholic, and a theatre artist would mingle with such a secular community. My anxieties were relieved when I was introduced to a community of individuals in the area that shared my faith. I began attending regular prayer meetings with members of the Emmanuel Community, and through them found myself with a network of like-minded individuals.

It was through the Emmanuel Community that I ended up spending this past Easter on retreat in Rome, in addition to participating in the funeral Mass for Pope John Paul II. One of my friends from college, who was attending the Emmanuel School of Missions there, invited another friend of ours and me to spend Easter with her. The ESM, which is under the patronage of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, has a one-year program of study, which forms young men and women, from all over the world, to carry out the call by Pope John Paul II, to participate in the “New Evangelization”. Through study and practice of the Faith, focusing on praise, adoration, and evangelization, the students are prepared to return to their home countries with the zeal and formation they need to be stewards of the Faith, in their home, work, and social lives.
While there I had the profound sense that God was calling me to serve Him more deeply, using my talents as an artist to evangelize through theatre. I was able to sing at the Holy Week services, and I made some great contacts for future theatrical endeavors. Through constant prayer, this call to evangelize had even gone so far as to instill in me a passionate desire to develop a school similar to the ESM, in the United States, integrating the Faith discipline with formation as an artist.

After speaking with the leaders of the school, friends, and family I have discerned that it would be very fruitful for me to spend this next year at the ESM, to form myself spiritually, and get first-hand knowledge of how a school of this nature is run. I applied and was accepted for the 2005-2006 program, beginning October 1st.

This is where you come in. I cannot do this without the prayerful and loving support of my friends and family, some of whom I may not see or even speak to for several months. I am also in need of financial assistance. I know it is hard for many of us to survive financially during these times, but if it is at all possible for you to sponsor me in this mission with a donation of some money, I would very much appreciate it.

To attend the Emmanuel School of Missions in Rome, I need finances for tuition, travel, and living expenses. If you are able to help in any way, or if you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact me through the information provided above. Information about the Emmanuel School of Missions can be found on their website at: www.esm-rome.com . The Emmanuel Community does accept tax deductible donations for students attending the ESM, and information for that will be updated here, shortly.

Please know that I will be keeping all of you in my prayers while I am there, and we will most certainly be united to Christ though the Eucharist!

Love,
Michelle

weekend update

2005-06-28T15:47:00.000-04:00

...Licking Contests, Rwanda/Uganda, Billy Graham & Company, Sprinkler Systems, Potassium Deficiencies, and more....

Licking contests-

Faith and I had a contest this past weekend. I haven't heard her results. She probably won, but these are my scores:
1. Person I know really well: (Stephen, Brooks) :) and :
2. Person I know sort of well: (Liz) :
3. Person I don't know, but met and licked: :(
-For the record...I asked a waiter I had this weekend, but he refused. He was really tatooed and it was in a dingy bar and he still wouldn't let me lick him.P.S. You owe me a beer from your fridge

Rwanda/Uganda

I went with Stephen to JFK to pick up his friends Jeff & Dorothy Flint who were returning from a month long trial stay in Uganda, Rwanda, and Cape Town. Jeff is a tea exporter and the two of them have been volunteering for the CFRs for a while, that's how Stephen knows them. Anyway...they're most likely returning to Africa by next year to either Uganda (which is their first choice, but are leaving it up to where God wants them to go) or Rwanda, which is in more desperate need of help, but a not quite as safe as Uganda. They asked Stephen and I to come with them, or at least come for a short time to do volunteer work with the Sisters of Charity...or Missionaries of Charity, whichever one is Mother Theresa's posse. We are seriously considering it, and spoke at some length about the feasability of it. We wouldn't be going for at least 2 years,or at least not until I come back from Rome, but please keep us in your prayers for discernment in this.

Billy Graham & Company

Sarah Joyce, Stephen and I ventured out to Flushing Meadows Park this Saturday, to hear Jars of Clay and Rev. Billy Graham...the weekend was billed as his "last crusade" to NY, and apparently there were over 250,000 people there (that's ok WYD has more). JofC didn't suck, but they only played one song I knew (Flood) and Faith, you're right...they're not that good in concert.On our way in we were inundated with pamphlets, booklets, flyers, and various other BG propaganda. Upon reading them we were informed of a few basic things that as a Christian you should know. Apparently:
1. You don't need to go to church.
2. You're a sinner and unless you accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, you're going to hell.
3. Stemming off of #2...there's no way for you to receive redemption so you're pretty much screwed unless...
4. You give them your $$$...only what you can afford though.

The most disturbing thing was that when the Rev. came up to speak the camera panned around the stage and we recognized two faces we weren't particularly thrilled to see. It was none other than President Clinton and his wife Hillary. BG proceeded to introduce them as, "his great friends of several years" whom he admires and respects as superior leaders and advocates of family life. He said he has repeatedly told Bill that given his compelling oratory skills he should take over as the Evangelical Preacher and, "let his wife lead the country" (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Needless to say we were all pretty incensed and promptly left the arena. Sarah is going to write a letter. Stephen was just too tired to really offer any suggestions, so he bitterly grumbled as we walked away. I think it's just another opportunity for us to pray pray pray. We appeased our broken spirits by going back into the city and eating some really good food.

Sprinkler Systems

Yesterday it was really hot...outside and inside. So Stephen and I took a walk to one of the playgrounds in my neighborhood where they have this really great fenced off area with like five different sprinklers running. He promptly hopped the fence and walked through them, drenching himself in the cool spray. Like a lady, I walked to the entrance of the gate instead of climbing over in my sundress, where he met me and hugged me. Then we both ran through the sprinklers, amusing both the kids playing and their parents watching, with our childlike antics. ::le sigh:: I love him.

Potassium Deficiencies

I have one. I realized this through Stephen's diagnosis and after reading a book that he gave me about back health and the amazing benefits of Apple Cider Vineagar. Essentially I have all of the symptoms, including but not limited to:
-Bone and muscle aches-
Mental and muscle fatigue
-Dizziness upon straightening up
-Morning headaches or when stressed
-Loss of mental alertness and onset of confusion.

Granted this is just a self diagnosis, but it couldn't hurt to increase my potassium intake. I have a feeling I'm pretty malnourished right now and that's probably the cause of a lot of my problems. Why am I malnourished you ask? Well...I suppose its a lack of discipline, stress and the lifestyle of the city I live in. But mostly its because I'm poor. Throw me a pity party.

The Polish Plumber

One of yesterday's NYTimes articles displays a hunky looking, blond, Pole pictured as a plumber in green overalls, and "Stanley Kowalski" tee-shirt holding strategically placed plumbing paraphenaliaas part of the Polish interior's aim to boost tourism and revenue. He has that, "Come hither (to Poland)" look about him, eh? I'm game...

(The image can be viewed at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/26/international/europe/26poland.html )

I'll leave you with that to chew on.

Peace and have a great week!

News front

2005-05-10T15:23:00.000-04:00

Aha!
So Happy Mother's Day to all who are mothers...I know it happened this past weekend, but better late than never eh?
From my side of the mountain, here's the scoop...I'm still working toward going to Rome. This time there's a new twist to the plot though. My boyfriend and I have decided to go together. The problem being now, we have to BOTH get accepted. This could take a bit of convincing the team leaders at the ESM though.
Regardless we still have to send in all of our stuff. I've sent in my letter of motivation, but still have to complete my curriculum vitae, which should be done by this afternoon. Just a couple more sections to fill out, and it doesn't look too bad I might add. Stephen however, needs to do all of it. And we have to make sure we phrase everything just right.
Plus, we're going to have to find benefactors still...I know I've had to do this from before he decided to go as well, which is in large part the reason for this blog.
Which brings me to the point of this venture. I feel sort of cheap doing this, but I figured it'd probably one of the most efficient ways of communicating with everyone about my plans/needs/prayers. I do intend to send hard copy snail mail as well. I haven't given up on the good ol' U.S. Postal Service, but the initial forum I intend to use is this blog.
Essentially...I'm asking for donations. The Emmanuel School of Missions is run by the Emmanuel Community, and funded I assume in large part by donations and private benefactors, but it cannot fund the school independently. The school, which Stephen and I intend to go to, costs $700 per month--for 9 months...which isn't a lot considering that $700 covers all food, lodgings, travel, and activities while we're there. Plane tickets to and from are of course extra--but the bulk of the nine months there is covered by that $700. So it's really not too much money, but money nonetheless, which I'm trying to raise.
Why do I want to go? Well, aside from changing the world...I want to discover how God wants me to use the gifts and talents He's given me in order to glorify Him. I am an artist. I'm an actress and a director and I know He wants to use me in that area. Since being in Rome last month I really felt called to pursue going to this school so that I could form myself in the knowledge of the Catholic faith, discipline myself through prayer and activity in the Church, to eventually come back to the United States where I would want to begin a similar type of school here in New York City. Back here, we'd focus on evangelization through performance...and maybe not necessarily through explicitly Catholic theatre or missions, but simply by studying the faith and incorporating that in to studying theatre; acting, directing, music--so the product could be a group of fully informed artists who continually seek the truth and live the truth in their daily lives--as actors, directors, musicians, writers, businessmen, doctors, etc...
If this sounds like something of interest to you. please contact me. If this sounds like a project you'd like to support, please contact me. If this sounds like something you'd at least like to prayerfully support, please do so.
I will be continually adding to this page...and once I figure out how to post photos I'll do that too.
I look forward to hearing from anyone and everyone. If you have questions, shout them out.
Peace & Joy!

Establishing Connection

2005-05-04T14:07:00.000-04:00

In my first attempt to establish a blog I realize I know nothing about all the specific language. Note to self: learn language of blog posting...