News
DAY TRIP TO GOZO
The Mission Fund is organizing a day trip to Gozo on Saturday 25 September 2010. We will depart from Cirkewwa at 9.00 a.m. Mass will be celebrated by Fr Marcellino Micallef OFM at Ta` Pinu Sanctuary at 10.00 a.m. We will then visit Victoria, Xlendi and Marsalforn, where we will have lunch at Odessey Restaurant. Afterwards we will visit Wied tal-Lunzjata and l-Ghadira ta` San Rafflu. We will then leave with the 16.30 ferry. Transport will be available from various localities. Booking may be made by phoning the office (21413664 - Monday to Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.) or Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351 or Mob: 99885078). Tickets cost €25 for adults and €12 for children between 6 and 12 years old. Book early because places are limited.
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MISSION FUND GRAND LOTTERY
The winning tickets of the Mission Fund Grand Lottery, which was drawn on Sunday 22 August 2010 at our office at Mosta in the presence of officials from the Lotteries and Gaming Authority, are as follows:
First Prize: Acer Intel Dual Core 15.6" Laptop - Ticket No: 061916
Second Prize: 2 Air Malta return tickets to Rome (excluding taxes & charges) - Ticket No: 054586
Third prize: Photo Session by Andrew Gauci Attard - Ticket No: 104666
Fourth Prize: Framed Ganutel Flower Arrangement - Ticket No: 075245
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MISSIONARY EXPERIENCE IN TANZANIA
A group of 24 volunteers from the Mission Fund, accompanied by the Spiritual Director Fr 
Marcellino Micallef OFM, left Malta on 10th August 2010 to accomplish a project in Tanzania. The group will spend 5 weeks in Tanzania to complete the project which consists of the construction of an extension to a hospital in Singida, Tanzania. The hospital accomodates about 170 beds and is run by Sr Maria Borda from the Medical Missionaries of Mary.
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FORTHCOMING ACTIVITIES
The Mission Fund intends to organise a number of activities in the coming months. These include a day trip to Gozo (on 25th September), a buffet breakfast (on 2nd November), a tea tombola (on 28th November) and a Christmas Dinner (on 12th December). Further details will be given in due course. Please keep these dates free and participate in these activities. All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in poor countries to spread the Word of God.
The Mission Fund would like to thank all those who participated in the previous fund-raising activities, which yielded the following proceeds: the boat cruise held on 26th June (€1,652), dinner at Montecristo Estates held on 8th July (€4,305), the Pilgrimage to Lourdes held between 14th and 20th July (€500) and the buffet breakfast held on 29th July (€552).
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MASS FOR THE REPOSE OF THE BENEFACTORS
A mass for the repose of our benefactors will be said at St Publius Parish Church on Thursday 18th November at 6.30 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
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BUFFET BREAKFAST - 29 JULY 2010
The Mission Fund is organizing a buffet breakfast on Thursday 29th July 2010. Mass will be celebrated by Fr Marcellino Micallef OFM at 9.15 a.m. at San Guzepp Haddiem Church, Xemxija. Breakfast will then be served at 10.15 a.m. at the Selmun Palace Hotel. This will be followed by a tombola draw. Tickets costing only €10 may be obtained by phoning the Mission Fund office (Tel: 21413664 - on Monday to Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.) or Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351 or Mob: 99885078). Transport may be arranged at an extra cost.
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THE MISSION FUND: A MESSAGE OF HOPE
During a press conference held on the 22 June 2010 at St Joseph’s Home, Sta Venera, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tonio Borg presented a financial package amounting to over €250,000 to sixteen missionary organisations in order to help them continue with their projects of humanitarian aid in a number of poor countries in Asia, Europe and Africa. These organisations carry out invaluable work in these countries and serve as a message of hope to those persons who are suffering poverty and other difficulties.
The financial package is part of the Overseas Development Assistance fund which is administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Mission Fund was one of these organisations which benefited from this fund and was presented with a cheque of €18,000 in aid of a project which will be carried out by 24 volunteers during this summer. The project consists in the building of a hostel comprising 20 rooms complete with a kitchen and other sanitary facilities. The hostel will accomodate the medical and paramedical staff of the Makiungu Hospital in Singdida, Tanzania which is run by a Maltese nun Sr Maria Borda of the Medical Missionaries of Mary.
While addressing the members of these organisations, Minister Tonio Borg praised the work carried out by them, which made them ambassadors of their own country. Such work conveys a message of hope to these people, who in spite of the difficulties in which they live, there are still somebody who cares for them.
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PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES
The Mission Fund will be organizing a pilgrimage to Lourdes from 14th to 20th July 2010 for the price of €515 only (including taxes). For more information and booking please contact Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 2157 5351 or Mob: 9988 5078). Book early because there are only a few places left.
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DINNER AT MONTEKRISTO ESTATES, HAL-FARRUG
The Mission Fund is organizing a dinner at Montekristo Estates, Hal-Farrug on Thursday 8th July 2010 at 8.00 p.m. A choice of beef, pork, chicken or fish will be served, together with a fruit dessert and a glass of soft drink or watef. Tickets at €12 each will also entitle you to a raffle draw. Bookings may be made by phoning Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 2157 5351 or Mob: 9988 5078) or Ms Sylvia Ebejer (Tel: 2143 5968 or Mob: 9945 8350). All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries.
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SALE OF PLANTS AT ZEBBUG - SUNDAY 4th JULY 2010
The Mission Fund is organising a sale of plants on the parvis of Zebbug Parish Church on Sunday 4th July 2010 from 7.30 a.m. to 12.00 noon. All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries.
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BOAT CRUISE - BUFFET DINNER
The Mission Fund will be organizing a boat cruise on a Captain Morgan boat (m.v. Europa) on Saturday 26th June 2010. The boat departs from Sliema Ferries at 7.00 p.m. and will proceed towards St. Paul`s Islands. A buffet dinner will be served on board the boat. Tickets at €25.00 for adults and €15.00 for children under 12 years may be obtained by phoning Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351 / 99885078) or Ms Sylvia Ebejer (Tel: 21435968 / 99458450) or the Mission Fund office (Tel: 21413664 - Monday to Friday: 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.). All proceeds will go towards the building of an extension to a hospital in Tanzania run by a Maltese missionary, Sr Maria Borda MMM.
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SALE OF PLANTS: SUNDAY 30 MAY 2010
The Mission Fund is organising a sale of plants on the parvis of St Venera`s Parish Church on Sunday 30 May 2010 from 7.30 a.m. to 12.00 noon. All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries.
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BUFFET BREAKFAST
The Mission Fund will be organising a buffet breakfast on Thursday 27th May 2010 at Hotel San Antonio, Qawra. The activity starts at 9.15 a.m. with a Mass celebrated by Fr Marcellino Micallef OFM. Breakfast will be served afterwards. Tickets at €10 may be obtained from the Mission Fund office (Tel: 21 413 664 - Monday to Friday: 8.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.)
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
During the Annual General Meeting which was held at St Francis Centre, Hamrun, all the present Committee members were re-elected for another term. A motion was presented and approved so that the newly elected members will serve for two years. The elected members of the new Committee are: Christine Camilleri, Charles Decelis, Sylvia Ebejer, Philip Micallef, Joe Mifsud, John Sammut and Speranza Xuereb. Fr Marcellino Micallef, OFM was re-confirmed as Spiritual Director.
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COLD BUFFET - SUNDAY 2nd MAY 2010
The Mission Fund will be organizing a cold buffet on Sunday 2nd May 2010 at 12.30 p.m. at The Magazino, Valletta Waterfront. Tickets at €12 (for adults) and €6 (for children under 12) may be obtained from Ms Sylvia Ebejer (Tel: 21435968) or Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351/99885078). All proceeds will go towards the construction of an extension to a hospital in Singida, Tanzania run by a Maltese missionary, Sr Maria Borda.
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting will be held on Sunday 25th April 2010 at St Francis Centre, Hamrun at 9.15 a.m. Nominations for the Committee election should be submitted to the Mission Fund office by not later than 29th March 2010. Only those members who have paid the annual membership fee are entitled to vote.
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PONTIFF LOOKS FORWARD TO MALTA VISIT
VATICAN CITY, APRIL 12, 2010 - Benedict XVI is looking forward to his visit to the Maltese Islands this Saturday and Sunday, said the Pope`s secretary of state.
Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone affirmed this in a message publicized on Saturday, in which he extended the Pontiff`s greetings to the people of Malta.
"In the days of preparation that remain, His Holiness asks you to pray that his visit will be a time of spiritual renewal for the whole Church in Malta and Gozo," the message stated.
It affirmed that "Malta has remained staunchly faithful to Christ over many centuries, and has done much to defend the faith, both at home and abroad."
"The Holy Father knows how much you are attached to your great heritage, and he invites you to deepen this attachment as a living reality and as a truth that is always relevant, notwithstanding the fact that, in today`s society, this carries the risk of being opposed, ignored or forgotten," Cardinal Bertone affirmed.
He added, "At a time when the Maltese people celebrate with particular joy the 1950th anniversary of St. Paul`s arrival on their shores, the Holy Father commends all of you to the intercession of that great apostle and missionary, who tirelessly proclaimed the good news of the crucified and risen Lord to the people of the Mediterranean."
"And in this year when the universal Church is celebrating a Year for Priests," the cardinal noted, "he urges you in particular to value the great gift of the priesthood and to support and pray for your priests, so that they may grow in gratitude to God and in fidelity and enthusiasm for the ministry."
"He commends them and he commends all of you to the intercession of an outstanding Maltese priest, St. Ġorġ [George] Preca, to whom, in a special way, he entrusts his forthcoming visit," the prelate said.
St. George (1880-1962) was a Catholic priest in Malta who founded the Society of Christian Doctrine, an organization of lay catechists.
He was proclaimed the first Catholic saint from that nation, and was canonized on June 3, 2007 by Benedict XVI.
Cardinal Bertone told the Maltese people that the Holy Father is asking "the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, venerated with particular devotion at your National Shrine of Ta` Pinu, to look down in love upon all the people of Malta and Gozo and to intercede for them with the One she was privileged to bear in her womb, the Savior of the World."
"With these sentiments," the message ended, "His Holiness cordially imparts his Apostolic Blessing to all the people of Malta and Gozo,as a pledge of joy and peace in the Risen Lord."
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BUFFET BREAKFAST
The Mission Fund will be organizing a buffet breakfast at the San Antonio Hotel, Bugibba on Thursday 25th March 2010. A mass will be celebrated at 9.15 a.m. followed by the buffet breakfast and tombola. Tickets at € 10.00 may be obtained by phoning the office on 21413664 (Monday to Friday from 09.00 to 13.00) or from Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351/Mob: 99885078). Transport may be arranged at an extra cost. All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in third countries. Click here for more details.
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FUN DAY FOR CHARITY AT THE RIVIERA HOTEL
The Mission Fund, together with Noah`s Ark, Malta Parkinson`s Disease Association, Cinema Heritage Group, Breast Cancer Support Group, Wied Ghajn Zejtuna, Stray Animal Support Group, Happy Paws and The Three Cities Group, will be taking part in a Fun Day organized by the management of the Riviera Hotel, Marfa on Sunday 21st March 2010 from 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. The public is invited to attend and to help these voluntary organizatons. Entrance is free. Click here for details.
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CLEARANCE SALE AT TAURUS CENTRE, BKARA
A clearance sale will be held from Monday 22nd to Friday 25th February 2010 from 9.30 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. at Taurus Centre, Valley Road, B`Kara. All items will be sold at slashed prices. Proceeds will be in aid of the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries.
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TEA TOMBOLA - SUNDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2010
The Mission Fund will be organizing a tea tombola on Sunday 28th February 2010 from 3.30 p.m. onwards at the Imperial Hotel, Sliema. Tickets may be obtained from the Mission Fund office (Tel: 21 413 664).
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FUND RAISING TV MARATHON
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to watch video |
The Mission Fund will be organising a fund-raising marathon which will be transmitted on the local TV stations (Education 22, Net TV and One TV) on Sunday 21 February 2010 from noon onwards. Send an sms on 5061 8071 for a donation of €4.66 or on 5061 9203 for a donation of €11.65. All proceeds will go towards the construction of an extension to a 170-bedded hospital in Tanzania run by a Maltese missionary, Sr Maria Borda. |
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PLANT SALE AT IKLIN
The Mission Fund will be organizing a sale of plants at the parvis of Iklin Church on Sunday 14th February 2010 from 8.30 a.m. to 12.00 noon. All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries.
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BUFFET BREAKFAST
The Mission Fund will be organizing a buffet breakfast at the Selmun Palace Hotel on Thursday 4th February 2010. A mass will be celebrated at Selmun Castle at 9.15 a.m. followed by the buffet breakfast at the Selmun Palace Hotel. Tombola will be drawn after breakfast. Tickets at € 10.00 may be obtained by phoning the office on 21413664 (Monday to Friday from 09.00 to 13.00) or from Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351/Mob: 99885078). All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in third countries. Click here for more details.
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THE POPE APPEALS FOR PEACE
During a Mass marking the start of 2010 celebrated at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope today called for the respect of all people without discrimination and the protection of children from war and violence.
He said in the homily that peace begins by recognising in each other`s faces that men are brothers and not rivals or enemies. He said people should be taught the value of respect for all from an early age.
The Pope said the painful images of children at the mercy of war and violence, their faces "disfigured by pain and desperation," are a silent appeal for peace.
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BENEDICT XVI\'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR JANUARY
Pope Benedict XVI`s general prayer intention for January 2010 is: "That young people may learn to use modern means of social communication for their personal growth and to better prepare themselves to serve society".
His mission intention is: "That every believer in Christ may be conscious that unity among all Christians is a condition for more effective proclamation of the Gospel".
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HAPPY & BLESSED CHRISTMAS TO ALL
The Mission Fund Committee would like to wish a Happy and Blessed Christmas to all the members and benefactors of Mission Fund and would like to thank them for their continuous help and generosity. Let us all pray for all our missionaries so that the Lord will give them the strength and health that they need in order to continue with their pastoral work among the poor people throughout the globe.
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2010 EUROPEAN YEAR FOR COMBATING POVERTY AND SOCIAL EXCLUSION
Representatives from the Mission Fund, Caritas, SOS Malta, Richmond Foundation and the Council of Women 
attended a 1-day conference entitled "Poverty between Reality and Perceptions: The Communication Challenge" organised by the European Commission on 29th October 2009.
The conference brought together about 400 participants and stakeholders, which included public decision makers, NGOs, journalists and researchers.
The conference was organized in preparation of next year`s EU commitment to develop a new EU policy to combat poverty and social exclusion. Participation to the conference was fully sponsored by the European Commission.
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CHRISTMAS DINNER DANCE
The Mission Fund will be organizing a Christmas Dinner Dance on Saturday 12th December 2009 at 8.00 p.m. at the Topaz Hotel, Bugibba. Tickets are obtainable from the Mission Fund office (Tel: 21413664) or from Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351 or Mob: 99885078). Book early to avoid disappointment. All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan Missionaries working in Third World Countries. Click here for more details.
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AX FOUNDATION COLLECTIVE BAZAAR
The Mission Fund, together with Assocjazzjoni Voluntarji Lourdes, Y.W.C.A. (Malta), Dar il-Kaptan, Guatemala Mission, The Malta Hospice Movement, Arka Foundation and Z.A.K., will be taking part in a collective bazaar organized by AX Foundation at the MFCC, Ta` Qali during the Machinery and Tools Fair. The stands will be open from Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th November 2009 from 6.00 p.m. to 10.30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and from 10.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. on Sunday. All proceeds from the Mission Fund stand will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries.
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR 2008
The Mission Fund financial statements for 2008 were presented and approved during an extraordinary general meeting held on 20th October 2009 at the Franciscan Centre, Hamrun. The financial report was approved by the Mission Fund Committee on 4th August 2009 and audited by the external auditors DFK Malta. The report may be viewed by clicking here.
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TEA TOMBOLA
The Mission Fund will be holding a fund raising Tea Tombola at the Imperial Hotel, Rudolph Street, Sliema on Sunday 15th November 2009 at 3.30 pm. Tickets may be obtained by phoning the Mission Fund office on 21413664 or Mrs Connie Azzopardi on 21331151.
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SALE OF PLANTS
The Mission Fund will be organising a sale of plants on the parvis of the Mosta Parish Church on Sunday 8th November 2009 from 8.00 am to noon. All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries.
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GRAND BAZAAR AT TAURUS CENTRE
The Mission Fund will be holding a grand bazaar at Taurus Centre (ex-Albert Tours), Valley Road, B`Kara (a few metres further from the traffic lights) on Wednesday 28th to Friday 30th October 2009 from 9.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
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BUFFET BREAKFAST
The Mission Fund will be organizing a buffet breakfast on Thursday 22nd October 2009 at Selmun Castle. Mass will be celebrated by Fr Marcellino Micallef OFM at 9.15 a.m. This will be followed by a buffet breakfast consisting of juices, cereal and full English Breakfast. Tickets at € 10.00 may be booked by phoning 21 413 664
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MISSIONARY VILLAGE - 11-18 OCTOBER 2009
On the occasion of Mission Sunday, the Mission Fund, along with other missionary organisations, will be participating in a Missionary Village which is being organized by the Pontifical Mission Societies. This activity will be held from 11th to 18th October 2009 at Freedom Square, Valletta. The stands will be open from 9.00 am to 7.00 pm. This week of activities will be officially opened on Sunday 11th October with a mass which will be celebrated by Fr Timothy Lehane Barrett, Secretary General for the Propagation of Faith, at St John`s Co-Cathedral at 11.00 am. During the weekdays, animation programmes will be organised for Primary school children and Mass will be celebrated every day at the Missionary Village at 12.30 pm. The week of activities will come to an end on Sunday 18th October with a Mass celebrated by Mons. Mario Grech, Bishop of Gozo, at the Missionary Village at 8.00 a.m.
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MISSIONARY EXPERIENCE IN TANZANIA
The group of Mission Fund volunteers who went to Tanzania on a missionary experience arrived back in Malta. They were greeted at the airport by their relatives, friends and members of the Mission Fund. The group successfully completed their project which consisted in the construction of a multi-purpose hall adjoining to a school run by Sr Domenica Ciliberti. A donation was also given to Sr Maria Borda, who runs a hospital in Singida.
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GRAND BAZAAR
The Mission Fund will be holding a bazaar in aid of the Maltese missionaries at Garage 27, St Margaret Street Mosta from Monday 28th to Wednesday 30th September 2009. The bazaar will be open from 9.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
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GRAND LOTTERY RESULTS
The following are the results of the Grand Lottery in aid of Mission Fund which was drawn on Sunday 23 August 2009 in the presence of an official from the Department of Public Lotto:
1st Prize - Air Malta tickets to any destination (excluding taxes) - Ticket No: 093428
2nd Prize - Weekend Break (Accomodation only) at The Palace Hotel - Ticket No: 017728
3rd Prize - Fuji Digital Camera - Ticket No: 077683
4th Prize - Photo Session - Ticket No: 016274
5th Prize - Silver Holy Family Picture - Ticket No: 077924
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MISSIONARY EXPERIENCE
On Friday 7th August 2009, a group of 22 Mission Fund volunteers left Malta for Tanzania, where a multi-purpose hall for street children will be built. This hall is adjacent to a school for children suffering from aids and is run by Sr Domenica Ciliberti. The volunteers will also carry maintenance work in a hospital run by Sr Maria Borda. Let us pray that, with God`s help, these two projects will be as successful as all the previous projects.
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DAY TRIP TO GOZO
The Mission Fund will be organizing a day trip to Gozo on Saturday 19th September 2009. We will depart from Cirkewwa by the 9.00 a.m. ferry and will proceed to Ta` Pinu, Victoria and Xlendi, where we will have lunch. After lunch, there will be some free time, during which one can take a swim in this beautiful bay. We return to Malta by the 4.30 p.m. ferry. The price, which includes all transport in Gozo and lunch, is €18.00 for adults and €11.00 for children under 12 years. For booking please phone 21 413 664 during weekdays from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. Click here for more details.
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EUR 73,589 RAISED DURING MARATHON
The Mission Fund would like to thank all those persons and firms who donated money, offered services and goods or dedicated their time during the fund-raising marathon held on 28 June 2009. The sum of €73,589 was raised during this event. All proceeds will go towards the building of a centre for street children and for maintenance work in a hospital, both run by Maltese nuns, in Tanzania.
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BBQ - SATURDAY 18 JULY 2009
The Mission Fund is organizing a BBQ on Saturday 18 July 2009 at 8.00 p.m. at the Girls` Secondary School, Ferris Street, Rabat. Tickets cost € 12.00 for adults and € 6.00 for children. A selection of fish, beef, pork or chicken together with dessert and a glass of wine or soft drink will be served. Bookings may be made by calling Mr Charles Decelis on 2157 5351 (Mob 9988 5078) or Ms Sylvia Ebejer on 2143 5968 (Mob 9945 8350). The tickets will entitle you to a free raffle draw. All proceeds will go towards the building of a centre for street children and for maintenance work in a hospital, both run by Maltese nuns, in Tanzania.
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FUND-RAISING MARATHON
The Mission Fund is holding a fund-raising marathon in order to raise funds for the construction of a multi-purpose hall in a school run by a maltese missionary Sr. Domenica Ciliberti and for carrying out maintenance work in a hospital run by Sr. Maria Borda. Both these projects will be carried out in Tanzania. Donations may be made by calling on the fixed lines 5004 9623 (for a donation of € 7), 5004 9625 (for a donation of € 12) and 5004 9620 (for a donation of € 23) or by sending an sms on 5061 8071 (for a donation of € 4.66) or 5061 9203 (for a donation of € 11.65).
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CLEARANCE SALES
The Mission Fund will be holding a clearance sale of new shoes and handbags at 1, Triq Durumblat Mosta (near Mosta Cemetery) on Friday 19th June 2009 (from 3.00 pm to 7.00 pm), Saturday 20th June 2009 (from 7.30 am to 5.00 pm) and on Sunday 21st June 2009 (from 7.30 am to 1.00 pm).
Another sale of new clothes for all occasions, handbags, shoes and dresses for weddings and Holy Communion (worn only once) will be held from Monday 22nd to Friday 26th June 2009 from 9.00 am to 12.30 pm at 21, Triq l-Imhalla, Naxxar (first turning on the left from Miracle Food Stores).
All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan Missionaries working in Third World countries. Come and avail yourself of this opportunity while helping for a good cause.
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BOAT CRUISE & BUFFET DINNER
The Mission Fund is organizing a Captain Morgan Boat Cruise & Buffet Dinner on Saturday 13th June 2009. The boat will leave The Strand, Sliema at 7.00 pm and returns at midnight. Tickets costing € 25.00 for adults and € 15.00 for children may be obtained from Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351 Mobile: 99885078). All proceeds will go towards the building of a primary school and a centre for street children in Tanzania.
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FIRE DESTROYS CURIA AND RESIDENCE OF BISHOP ROBERT CAMILLERI OFM
On the 15 April 2009 at 8.00 pm a fire broke out at the Mount Carmel Chapel, which forms part of the Episcopal Curia and which is adjoining to the private residence of Bishop Robert Camilleri OFM in Honduras. Although the firemen arrived within a short time, they could not control the fire, which completely destroyed Bishop Camilleri’s residence.
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TEA TOMBOLA - SUNDAY 17 MAY 2009
The Mission Fund is holding a Tea Tombola at the Imperial Hotel, Rudolph Street, Sliema on Sunday 17 May 2009 at 3.30 p.m. Tickets costing € 5.00 (without transport) or € 7.00 (including transport), may be obtained from the Mission Fund office (Tel: 2141 3664 - Monday to Friday from 9.00 a.m.to 1.00 p.m.). All proceeds will go in aid of Maltese missionaries working in Third World countries.
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POPE\'S PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND
The Holy Father began his apostolic pilgrimage to the Holy Land which is due to last until 15 May. This is the twelfth trip outside Italy of his pontificate.
King Abdullah II and Queen Rania of Jordan welcomed the Pope as he descended from his aircraft. Also present to greet the Holy Father were the political and civil authorities of the country, the ordinaries of the Holy Land, patriarchs, bishops and a group of faithful.
"I come to Jordan as a pilgrim", said the Pope in his address, "to venerate holy places that have played such an important part in some of the key events of biblical history".
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COLD BUFFET
The Mission Fund will be organizing a cold buffet at the Magazino, Valletta Waterfront on Sunday 26 April 2009 at 12.30 pm. The cost is €11.00 for adults and €5.00 for children. All proceeds will be towards the construction of an extension of a school for children suffering from AIDS and for maintenance work at a hospital in Tanzania, both run by Maltese missionaries. These projects will be carried out next summer by a group of Mission Fund volunteers. Members and guests are urged to attend.
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POPE BENEDICT XVI CELEBRATES HIS 82ND BIRTHDAY
On Thursday 16 April 2009, the Holy Father celebrated his 82nd birthday in the Apostolic Palace of Castelgandolfo a few kilometres south of Rome, where he was enjoying a brief period of rest following the ceremonies of Holy Week.
Holy See Press Office Director Fr. Federico Lombardi S.J. commented the circumstance by expressing the hope that the Holy Father "may long continue to carry out his ministry, ... helping the men and women of today to find God".
"The focus of his concern", Fr. Lombardi continued his remarks, "is to bring mankind to God and God to mankind, through a great personal love for Christ. ... Despite the critical attitude it is necessary to adopt towards so many negative aspects of today`s culture and mentality, in the final analysis the principle message [the Church] wishes to communicate is a message of love, a message for the good of mankind and of the human person; that is, their reconciliation with God and with all the other men and women who live on this earth".
Joseph Aloysius Ratzinger, the name with which Benedict XVI was baptised, was born on 16 April 1927 in Marktl am Inn, Germany. From 1946 to 1951, the year in which he was ordained a priest and began to teach, he studied philosophy and theology at the University of Munich and at the higher school of philosophy and theology of Freising. In 1953 he obtained a doctorate in theology with a thesis entitled: "The People and House of God in St. Augustine`s Doctrine of the Church." Four years later he qualified as a university teacher with a work on St. Bonaventure`s theology of history.
After a period of teaching dogma and fundamental theology at the higher school of philosophy and theology of Freising, he went on to teach in Bonn from 1959 to 1969, in Munster from 1963 to 1966, and in Tubinga from 1966 to 1969. In that year he was appointed professor of dogmatic theology and of the history of dogma at the University of Regensburg and vice president of the same university. In 1962, he made a noteworthy contribution to the work of Vatican Council II as theological consultant to Cardinal Joseph Frings, archbishop of Cologne.
In 24 March 1977, Paul VI appointed him archbishop of Munich and Freising, making him a cardinal on 27 June 1977. In 1981 he was nominated by John Paul II as prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Subsequently he also became president of the Pontifical Biblical Commission and of the Pontifical International Theological Commission, and dean of the College of Cardinals.
He was elected as Pope on 19 April 2005, the second day of the conclave.
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MISSION FUND\'S 25th ANNIVERSARY
The Mission Fund commemorated its 25th anniversary
from its foundation with a thanksgiving Mass which was held at the St Francis Centre, Hamrun. The mass was concelebrated by Fr Marcellino Micallef OFM and Mons. Salvino Micallef and was well attended by a large number of members and guests. This was followed by a reception.
The Mission Fund was founded on 16th April 1984 by Ian Azzopardi and his financee’ Rita Marie Muscat (now his wife).
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2009
The Mission Fund held its annual general meeting on 5th April 2009 at St Francis Centre, Hamrun. In accordance with the statute, the agenda of the meeting included a report by the President, an administrative report by the Secretary and a financial report by the Treasurer, which were all approved by the members present. This was followed by an election of the new committee, in which the following members were elected: Christine Camilleri, Charles Decelis, Sylvia Ebejer, Philip Micallef, Joe Mifsud. John Sammut and Speranza Xuereb. Fr. Marcellino Micallef OFM was confirmed as our Spiritual Director.
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THE POPE THANKS THE MISSIONARIES WORKING IN AFRICA
After the recital of the Angelus to the faithful gathered at St Peter’s Square, the Pope spoke at length about his recent visit to Africa, highlighting how, during his visit to the continent, he had been particularly impressed by people`s joy at being part of the one family of God. There, where missionaries, like Jesus, gave and continue to give their lives for the Gospel, we gather abundant fruits. To them - religious and lay people - goes my gratitude for the good that they do. It was for me a beautiful sight to see the fruit of their love for Christ and to appreciate the profound recognition Christians have for them. Let us give thanks to God for them and pray to Mary Most Holy that Christ`s message of hope and of love may be spread throughout the world". (VIS News)
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PROGETT TAMA 2009 - TANZANIA
On 7th August 2009, a group of 26 volunteers from Mission Fund, accompanied by Spiritual director Fr Marcellino OFM, will leave Malta to Mwanza, Tanzania, for 5 weeks to assist in an extension of a school at the request of Sr Domenica Ciliberti.
Sr. Domenica is a Maltese nun, who directs an AIDS centre accepting a number of HIV+ children, most of whom are orphans.
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BAZAAR AT TAURUS CENTRE, B\'KARA
The Mission Fund will be holding a grand bazaar at Taurus Centre, Valley Road, B`Kara (ex-Albert Tours - a few metres further up the traffic lights - opposite St. Paul`s Church) from Monday 23rd to Saturday 28th February 2009. The bazaar will be open from 9.30 a.m. to 12.00 noon and from 4.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. A large selection of new clothes, jewellery, ceramics, books, toys and other items will be on sale at incredible prices. Come and avail yourself of this opportunity and, at the same time, you will be helping our Maltese and Gozitan missionaries who are working in poor countries throughout the world.
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TEA TOMBOLA - SUNDAY 22nd FEBRUARY 2009
The Mission Fund will be holding a tea-tombola at the Canifor Hotel, Triq in-Nakkri, Qawra on Sunday 22nd February 2009 at 3.30 p.m. The price, which includes entitlement to high tea, is EUR 5.00 (without transport) or EUR 7.00 (including transport). Transport will be provided to all towns and villages. All proceeds will go towards the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries. Tickets may be obtained from the Mission Fund office (Tel: 21 413 664 - Monday to Friday from 9 .00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.).
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SEMINAR ON THE FEAST OF ST PAUL
The Mission Fund will be holding an all-day seminar for its members on Tuesday 10th February 2009 on the occasion of the feast of St Paul. The theme of the seminar is the missionary voyages of St Paul. All members are urged to attend.
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POPE\'S PRAYER INTENTION FOR FEBRUARY
Pope Benedict`s general prayer intention for February is: "That the pastors of the Church may always be docile to the action of the Holy Spirit in their teaching and in their service to God`s people".
His mission intention is: "That the Church in Africa may find adequate ways and means to promote reconciliation, justice and peace efficaciously, according to the indications of the Second Special Assembly for Africa of the Synod of Bishops". (VIS News)
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POPE\'S TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS MESSAGE OF PEACE
At noon today, the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord, the Pope gave his traditional Christmas message and imparted the "Urbi et Orbi" blessing from the central loggia of the Vatican Basilica.
In his message, The Pope said that "the heart of the Christmas message is meant for all men and women. Jesus was born for everyone, and just as Mary, in Bethlehem, offered Him to the shepherds, so on this day the Church presents Him to all humanity, so that each person and every human situation may come to know the power of God’s saving grace, which alone can transform evil into good, which alone can change human hearts, making them oases of peace".
"May the many people who continue to dwell in darkness and the shadow of death (cf. Lk 1:79) come to know the power of God’s saving grace! May the divine Light of Bethlehem radiate throughout the Holy Land, where the horizon seems once again bleak for Israelis and Palestinians. May it spread throughout Lebanon, Iraq, and the whole Middle East. May it bring forth rich fruit from the efforts of all those who, rather than resigning themselves to the twisted logic of conflict and violence, prefer instead the path of dialogue and negotiation as the means of resolving tensions within each country and finding just and lasting solutions to the conflicts troubling the region".
"This light, which brings transformation and renewal, is besought by the people of Zimbabwe, in Africa, trapped for all too long in a political and social crisis which, sadly, keeps worsening, as well as the men and women of the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in the war-torn region of Kivu, Darfur, in Sudan, and Somalia, whose interminable sufferings are the tragic consequence of the lack of stability and peace. This light is awaited especially by the children living in those countries, and the children of all countries experiencing troubles, so that their future can once more be filled with hope".
Following his message, the Pope extended Christmas greetings in 64 languages and imparted the "Urbi et Orbi" (to Rome and the world) blessing. (VIS News).
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POPE CALLS FOR AN END TO THE SUFFERING OF CHILDREN
The Pope celebrated Midnight Mass tonight in the Vatican Basilica on the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord.
In the homily, the Holy Father recalled the Gospel of Luke that narrates the announcement to the shepherds, "people of very lowly status, people who were looked down upon by society at large. ... Luke tells us that they were `keeping watch`. This phrase reminds us of a central theme of Jesus` message, which insistently bids us to keep watch. The command to stay awake, to recognize the Lord’s coming, and to be prepared.
"In every child we see something of the Child of Bethlehem", exclaimed Benedict XVI. "Every child asks for our love. This night, then, let us think especially of those children who are denied the love of their parents. Let us think of those street children who do not have the blessing of a family home, of those children who are brutally exploited as soldiers and made instruments of violence, instead of messengers of reconciliation and peace. Let us think of those children who are victims of the industry of pornography and every other appalling form of abuse, and thus are traumatized in the depths of their soul. The Child of Bethlehem summons us once again to do everything in our power to put an end to the suffering of these children; to do everything possible to make the light of Bethlehem touch the heart of every man and woman. ... Only if people change will the world change; and in order to change, people need the light that comes from God, the light which so unexpectedly entered into our night".
"And speaking of the Child of Bethlehem", he concluded, "let us think also of the place named Bethlehem, of the land in which Jesus lived, and which He loved so deeply. And let us pray that peace will be established there, that hatred and violence will cease. Let us pray for mutual understanding, that hearts will be opened, so that borders can be opened. Let us pray that peace will descend there, the peace of which the angels sang that night". (VIS News).
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CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
The Mission Fund will be participating at the Christmas Village which is being organised by the Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs at the Ta` Qali National Park on Friday 12th, Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December 2008. The stalls will be open from 10.00 am to 10.00 pm (on Friday and Saturday) and from 10.00 am to 7.00 pm (on Sunday). Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 7 p.m. and on Sunday at 9 a.m.
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CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
The Mission Fund, together with Caritas, Dar il-Kaptan, Hospice Movement, Guatemala Mission, Little Sisters of the Poor, Assocjazzjoni Volontarji Lourdes, Richmond Foundation, Eden Foundation and San Anton School will be taking part in a collective Christmas bazaar, which will be organized by AX Foundation in collaboration with Valletta Waterfront on Saturday, Sunday and Monday 6th, 7th and 8th December 2008 at the Magazino, Valletta Waterfront. The stalls will be open from 10.00 am to 10.00 pm. The public is urged to come and support these organisations by taking this opportunity to buy a variety of items at bargain prices. Click here for more details.
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CLEARANCE SALE OF BRAND NEW CLOTHES
The Mission Fund will be holding a clearance sale of brand new clothes at 21 Triq l-Imhalla Naxxar. This bazaar will be open from 27th to 29th November 2008 from 9.00 am to 12.30 pm. All proceeds will go towards our missionaries working in Third World countries. Avail yourself of this opportunity while helping our missionaries.
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TEA TOMBOLA - SUNDAY 16th NOVEMBER 2008
The Mission Fund will be holding a tea tombola on Sunday 16th November 2008 at 3.30 p, at the Parish Hall, Kommunita’ Kristu Rxoxt, Pembroke in aid of the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries. Tickets are available from the Mission Fund office (Tel: 21 413 664) or from Ms Connie Azzopardi (Tel: 2133 1151).
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PERMANENT BAZAARS
The Mission Fund will be holding permanent bazaars in aid of the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries. The bazaars will be open as follows:
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Every Tuesday and Friday |
at Ex-Sperry, Labour Avenue Naxxar (near BOV, opposite bus terminus) |
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Every Thursday |
at Garage 27, St Margaret Street, Mosta (corner with Main Street). |
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CHRISTMAS TREES AND CHRISTMAS CAKES FOR SALE
A number of brand new Christmas trees are on sale at very competitive prices. All proceeds will go in aid of the Maltese and Gozitan missionaries working in Third World countries.
Prices: 4 ft tall: EUR 5.00 - 5 ft tall: EUR 10.00 - 6 ft tall: EUR 15.00
Phone Mission Fund (Tel: 
21 413 664
) from Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm or contact Mr Charles Decelis (Tel: 21575351 or Mobile: 99885078). Deliveries may be arranged for any order.
Home-made Christmas cakes (8 in diameter) are also on sale at EUR 15.00 each in aid of our missionaries. Order your cakes by phoning Mission Fund (Tel: 21 413 664) from Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to 1.00 pm or contact Ms Nancy Sciberras (Tel: 213... or Mobile: 7960 3644). Donations of raisins, mixed fruit, sultana, self raising flour, whole almonds, brown sugar or black treacle will be most welcome.
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MISSION SUNDAY - 19th OCTOBER 2008
This year the Church will be celebrating Mission Sunday on the 19th October 2008. For this occasion, a whole week of activities are being organized from Sunday 12th October to Sunday 19th October 2008.
A large pavilion is being set up at Freedom Square, Valletta, where a number of information stands representing various local missionary organisations will be displayed. The Mission Fund will have its own stand, where photos of past activities will be exhibited. The stands will be open from 8.00 am to 8.00 pm.
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MISSION FUND - PROGETT TAMA - TANZANIA 2008
On 25 August 2008, a group of 24 Mission Fund volunteers returned from Mwanza in Tanzania, where they spent 5 weeks assisting in the construction of a new school at the request of Sr. Domenica Ciliberti. The volunteers paid all the travelling expences etc. themselves.
Sr Domenica Ciliberti, who directs an AIDS outreach centre will be accepting a number of HIV + children at this school.
Donations in aid of this project may be deposited directly into the following bank accounts:
| HSBC | 044 102 184 001 | |
| BOV | 400 170 189 51 | |
| APS | 200 006 6129-5 |
Let us pray to God that this project will be successful like all the other previous projects.
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POPE\'S PRAYER INTENTION FOR AUGUST
Pope Benedict`s general prayer intention for August is: "That the human family may know how to respect God`s design for the world and thus become ever more aware of the great gift of God which Creation represents for us".
His mission intention is: "That the answer of the entire people of God to the common vocation to sanctity and mission may be promoted and fostered, with careful discernment of the charisms and a constant commitment to spiritual and cultural formation". (VIS News 31.07.08)
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POPE\'S PRAYER INTENTION FOR MAY - HOLY MARY IS THE GUIDE FOR MISSIONARIES
Pope Benedict`s general prayer intention for May is: "That Christians may use literature, art and the mass media to greater advantage in order to favour a culture which defends and promotes the values of the human person".
His mission intention is: "That the Virgin Mary, Star of evangelisation and Queen of the Apostles, may still guide today with maternal affection the missionaries, both men and women, throughout the world, just as she accompanied the Apostles in the early stages of the Church". (VIS News - 30.04.08)
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Mission Fund held its Annual General Meeting on Thursday 17 April 2008 at the St Francis Centre, Hamrun. Mass was celebrated at 6.00 pm followed by the meeting, during which a new Committee was elected. The elected members (in alphabetical order) were Ian Azzopardi, Sylvia Ebejer, Joan Gabriele, Philip Micallef, Joe Mifsud, John Sammut and Speranza Xuereb.
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THE ROAD TO EMMAUS IS THE ROAD ALL CHRISTIANS FOLLOW
In his message to the pilgrims gathered at St Peter`s Square, Pope Benedict XVI emphasised on the importance of the virtues of faith and hope.
"The drama faced by the disciples of Emmaus", the Holy Father added, "appears to mirror the situation of many Christians of our own time. It seems as if the hope of faith has failed. Faith itself is in crisis because of negative experiences that make us feel we have been abandoned by the Lord. But this road to Emmaus along which we are walking can become a path of purification and maturity for our belief in God".
He continued: "Today too we can enter into dialogue with Jesus, listening to His Word. Today too He breaks the bread for us and gives Himself as our bread. And thus the encounter with the risen Christ, which is also possible today, gives us a more profound and authentic faith, tempered so to say by the fire of the events of Easter. A robust faith because it is nourished not by human ideas by the Word of God and His real presence in the Eucharist".
Following the Marian prayer, Benedict XVI recalled that today marks the close of the first World Congress of Divine Mercy. "Go and be witnesses of God`s mercy ", he told the participants, "the source of hope for each human being and for the world entire". (VIS News)
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POPE STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF FORGIVENESS AND RECONCILIATION
VIS News: Pope Benedict`s general prayer intention for March is: "That the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation between persons and people may be understood and that the Church, through her testimony, may spread Christ`s love, the source of new humanity".
His mission intention is: "That Christians, who are persecuted in many parts of the world and in various manners because of the Gospel, may continue, sustained by the strength of the Holy Spirit, to bear witness courageously and openly to the Word of God".
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POPE PRAYS FOR MISSIONARY MARTYRS
At midday on Easter Monday, the Pope prayed the Regina Coeli with pilgrims at the Apostolic Palace of Castelgandolfo. After the Marian prayer, the Holy Father recalled that today marks the Day of Prayer and Fasting for Missionary Martyrs. "Remembering and praying for these our brothers and sisters (bishops, priests, religious and lay people), who fell during the year 2007 while undertaking their missionary service, is a duty of gratitude for the whole Church and a stimulus for each of us to bear witness ever more courageously to our own faith and hope in Him Who on the cross overcame, once and for all, the power of hatred and violence with the omnipotence of His love". (Vis News - 26.03.08)
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MISSION FUND LAUNCHES A NEW WEBSITE
Mission Fund has just launched a new website. The aim of the website is to keep contact with our Maltese Missionaries who are presently working in over 40 countries throughout the globe, as well as with our local benefactors, without whose help the scope of the Mission Fund would not be achieved.
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