MSC News from the Mid-North Pastoral Area, New Zealand
Hoang Nguyen MSC from the mid-north pastoral area, New Zealand, sent the following update.
VISITATION OF STEPHEN, PROVINCIAL SUPERIOR
Stephen with members of the MSC Community in the Mid-North Pastoral Area of the Diocese of Auckland.
L-R: Hoang Nguyen, Stephen Hackett, Bang Hai Dinh, Vu Thanh
FIRST MSC CELEBRATION OF THE SACRED HEART IN NEW ZEALAND
A Week of Fraternity and the First Sacred Heart Celebration in Kerikeri
The MSC North New Zealand Community was recently blessed by the week-long visitation from Jun 11-16, of Stephen, our Provincial Superior. His visit was a valuable opportunity to strengthen our community through his presence, conversation, and shared life. Rather than focusing on administration, Stephen spent time listening attentively to each member, offering encouragement, support, and a renewed sense of fraternity. His presence reminded us that our missionary vocation is sustained not only by our ministry but also by the relationships we build as brothers in the Sacred Heart.
A special highlight of the visit was the celebration of the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at Kerikeri parish, one of pastoral places. This marked the first Sacred Heart celebration in New Zealand for our MSC ministry and became a joyful occasion of thanksgiving and unity.
The celebration brought together around 70 people including leaders and representatives from eighteen Mass centers, benefactors, principals and staff from schools where we minister, parishioners, and many friends of the MSC community. Their generous participation reflected the strong partnerships that have grown through our shared mission in the Far North.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the celebration was its multicultural character, esp. with Māori community, offering a beautiful witness to the universal love of the Sacred Heart. Despite our diversity, we were united in worship and in our desire to live the compassionate love of Christ.
Following the Mass, everyone gathered for a simple shared meal. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged warm conversations, renewed friendships, and new connections among people from different communities.
The Love of the Sacred Heart set the hearts of the parishioners at the Celebration "ABLAZE". So much so – that the Fire brigade had to come. Luckily – no hoses were needed. (It was really the Thurible – Incense Burner "smoking" under the smoke alarm). The incident provided a light-hearted moment and a memorable reminder of our enthusiastic celebration. Sacred Heart of Jesus, burning with love for us, inflame our hearts with love for You. It was an unexpected incident, but it was really a memorable moment.
We thank God for Stephen's fraternal visitation and for all who contributed to making this celebration such a memorable occasion. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus continue to bless our MSC North New Zealand Community and inspire us to share His love with all whom we encounter.
