Requiescant in Pace

Reflections on the life of Walter Joseph Silvester

As I wondered how to somehow draw together a broad picture of this remarkable priest, I knew it could only be from the memories of many people. I’m grateful for the sincerity and the perception of those whom I’ve been able to include this time. I should add that it was Walter’s initiative which began this newsletter way back in 1966.

Articles /letters are always welcome. Maybe this is the time you would like to make a contribution. Send to: The editress at 85 Studley Park Rd. Kew Vic 3101 or to me, merle.gilbo@blaze.net.au

Jim McKenna was in one of the apostolic groups in Kew in the 50’s. He writes:

For me, Father Walter was both a challenger and an inspirer, a man of clear vision and unswerving commitment, but above all and probably the outstanding quality that drew so many people to him, was his concern, interest and affection for all who crossed his path.

For those fortunate enough to have been in the formation groups or to have done retreats with him, he had the ability to affirm them and challenge them to greater clarity and effort to find their unique and individual part in God’s vision for mankind.

Like St. Vincent Pallotti, he was not in world class on organization, but again like Vincent, he was in world class on inspiration. His most powerful message was living out his convictions.

In 1936, with two other Pallottine students, he rode his pushbike 800Km across Germany to Schoenstatt where a priest gave him an MTA medal. He carried that medal continuously until he lost it in the garden at Millgrove. It had outlasted the war and two shipwrecks. His love for Mary and her care, protection and mediation was powerful.

Father Walter once told me that his sole reason to become a Pallottine priest was that "I believed people, all over the world, were searching for love. I wanted them to find Jesus, the great lover."

Father Walter has been a vital and invaluable part of so many lives over a good many years. He will be as influential in death as he was in life, to get us to look deeply into our lives and spirituality and strive always to move forward. We can be confident that he will continue to pray for and advocate our welfare with Mary, to Jesus, the great lover.

Brother Bernie Adams , a Christian Brother, tells his story:

My knowledge of Father Wally began fifteen years before I met him and that first knowledge was: if this is the result of Walter’s effect on a particular person, I don’t want to have anything to do with Walter. In 1976, I had my first opportunity to meet him in person and I came to realize that my former informant had missed Walter’s message completely.

From that first meeting, Walter and I became great friends and he became my confidante. In many ways, Walter made me, and I feel, many religious, view religious life more positively, to view the vows as a way of life, not of deprivation. He stressed that we made our vows not just for ourselves but for others. In this way he helped many male religious to overcome the phobia that had been instilled during our training and early life that we should avoid all contact with females, particularly with nuns.

Walter’s message was that the vow of celibacy was a vow to love all people and not one person in particular, which is the marriage vow. To us who went through the training in the forties and the fifties (and possibly earlier) this was quite contrary to what we had been taught. I think one of his greatest efforts and nights was when he arranged for a Sister Superior to address a combined retreat (sisters and brothers) on feminine sexuality. It was a brilliant move.

Perhaps, though, his greatest influence was through the liturgies celebrated ‘on the Mountain’. Mind you, I’m not sure if the purists among liturgists (and cooks) would agree with the length of time some of them took, but they were first class. I remember when one Eucharist started in the morning with the liturgy of the Word, continued with the penitential rite after lunch and concluded with the Consecration and Communion late in the afternoon. That started an evening of celebrations!.

I’ll never forget Walter’s words "What have you done to my roses?" after I had pruned the roses at Pallotti College for the first time. He thought I had killed them. After much sweet-talking, he agreed to wait. After seeing the results of the pruning, he made sure I was there each year for the next 20 years, to do them again, and again.

Rest in peace, Walter.

Archbishop Frank Little‘s  Reflection on Fr Walter Silvester SAC

On some occasions when Fr. Wally and I met together we would break into song. Our theme song was The Impossible Dream; it is the theme song of Marriage Encounter. We had been partners together in that experience, one of the richest in my life. In admirable honesty we shared together our dreams and our challenges. It was a privilege. A new depth in our life-enduring friendship was forged. I remain ever grateful.

Wally firstly was an Animator. He had the capacity to put new soul into people. One left him feeling more confidence in the world and sure that things would come good. It was not only to individuals that he gave new heart. He also gave fire, enthused organisations with which he was involved. In fact, they never seemed organisations; the very word gives the impression of red tape. With Wally no one ever felt that they were being tied into a program; they knew that their dynamism came from their own free choice.

Then he was an Affirmer. After listening to what one had to say he had the gift of identifying the good points in a person’s character, would bring them to appreciate the charisms they enjoyed, and left them with a strong sense of assurance that they could meet the difficulty confronting them. People grew in stature once Wally had brought them to develop the potential that was theirs.

Wally was also an Apostle. His mentor, St. Vincent Pallotti, used carry in his hand a small painting of Mary, Queen of Apostles, so that when people sought to kiss the hand of a priest, as they did in Vincent’s time, he would invite them to kiss the painting.. Wally carried the image of Mary, Queen of Apostles, in his heart. When the time for his appointment to the missions arrived his superior proposed that he choose between Canada or Australia. He indicated that he wished to be sent. And so to Australia he was sent. What a blessing for all of us who fell within his spell.

He was a friend; he remains ever so. Thank God.

20th  May, 2005. 

 + T. F. Little.

THELMA BICKNELL.

Thelma, sister of Brother Pat. SAC, peacefully entered eternal life, aged 88, on 28th March. Pat’s confreres (including Ray Hevern, regional leader) joined the wider Pallottine Family as they remembered Thelma’s gentle nature in a concelebrated Mass, presided over by John Winson. A large contingent from Cluny Hostel, home to both Pat and Thelma, was present; many friends continued on to the cemetery. Pat wishes to thank all for their prayers and for the preparation of the liturgies and the morning tea at Studley Park Rd.

PETER WANDERS.

Peter, another veteran member of the Pallottine Family died on 3rd May. Having been born in Holland in 1912, Peter lived through two European wars. In the years of reconstruction after 1945, he was involved in youth work, through which he met his wife, Maria. After their marriage and the birth of their daughter, Ria, they came to Australia ---among the many Dutch families who have made such wonderful contributions to this country.

Al, Frances and Trudy joined the family and Peter and Maria realized a dream when they opened their own cake shop in Caulfield, which they operated for 8 years. After the sale of the business they became the cooking team at Pallotti College. Yes, always a team approach. I can still see Maria standing at the stove, stirring the gravy or the white sauce and Peter, at the big bench, producing wonderful strudel and sausage rolls. They so realistically shared their gifts with all who came. Their philosophy was well expressed in the words on the Mass booklet for Peter’s funeral: "Events may sometimes touch our lives with change and dire direction.

But God, by grace, can heal, restore and bring us reconstruction".

GERALDINE McCORMACK

(21st February 1962 – 21st April 2005)

Geraldine who hailed from Tallangatta was a Lay Missionary at Pallottine Centre in Rossmoyne for 3 years, from 1983 through to 1985, looking after Aboriginal students as cook and house parent. She was a mother, a sister and a friend to the children in her charge. She loved them and they responded to her love. Josie Cortese who worked with Geraldine at Rossmoyne described her as "having the greatest gift of making people happy and laugh. She was so generous, especially with her time. I don’t think she knew the word ‘no’ as she would always be offering herself to help anyone needing her services".

After she finished her term as a Lay Missionary in WA, Geraldine spent some time traveling before settling down in Darwin. She ran a café at Fanny Bay and was in her element chatting and making friends with the locals who frequented the coffee shop. She ran the café for a number of years before returning to the work that she loved, the work she did before becoming a Lay Missionary, caring for disabled people.

During her time in Darwin Geraldine was involved with many organizations as a volunteer. She made many friends and even though her funeral was held at Tallangatta on the 30th of April; Geraldine’s friends in Darwin requested that a memorial Mass be held in Darwin the following Saturday. The 450 people or so who gathered to pay tribute to Geraldine at the Mass in Darwin was indicative of the love and the respect everyone had for Geraldine. As it was said at the funeral, "Geraldine had done so much work in her short life that God has now taken her to give her a good rest in heaven". Our prayers and condolences go out to Geraldine’s parents, Pat and Margaret, and the family.

SIGNIFICANT ANNIVERSARIES.

CONGRATULATIONS TO:
Br. Barry Hall on his 60^th birthday
Fr. Gerhard Christoph on his 50^th anniversary of profession
Fr. Kevin McKelson on the 60^th anniversary of his profession
Kath and Jim McKenna on the 50^th anniversary of their marriage
Fr. John Hennessy on the 60^th anniversary of his ordination

The 14^th July 1945 was a ‘red letter’ day for the Pallottine Fathers in Australia. A ‘local’ priest had joined their ranks. Fr. John Hennessy, Melbourne (Brunswick) born and bred, was ordained in St. Ambrose’ church (where he had been baptized). His schooling was at the Academy of Mary Immaculate, Fitzroy and St. Patrick’s East Melbourne. His mind and his heart were turning towards missionary priesthood when the Bishop of Broome, Otto Raible, visited the school. The work done in the Kimberleys by Pallottine priests and brothers answered his search for a missionary order. He did his studies at Corpus Christi Werribee, in company with three German students—George Vill, Anthony Omasmeier and Bruno Kupke ( all RIP) and two more Australians—Frs. Joe Kearney and Roger McGinley—still very much alive. What joy, then, for Bishop Raible to have the newly ordained priest working with him in the ‘North West’ for the next 5 years in the ‘West’. The next step for Fr. John was to himself return to the West again, this time to spend four years at Tardun.

A big change in 1961. In response to the expansion of Melbourne, new parishes were being established. The Pallottines, in the person of Fr. John, undertook responsibility for Syndal, 25km south east of the city. St. Christopher’s, at this stage, was one and a half acres of unmade roads, orchards, young families, mortgages! Just 34 children in the school but many toddlers ‘in the wings’. The future needs were obvious. Great co-operation and hard work was the basis for the growth that occurred. More land was bought to make five acres - with a view to a future church, presbytery, youth centre, hall adequate school, plenty of playground. All in place now in 2005.

By 1976 it was time (high time!) for a ‘bit of a break’. This included some traveling, thanks to the generosity of the St. Christopher’s parishioners and the opportunity to meet and work with Pallottine confreres in Milwaukee, USA and beyond.

Fr. John had another opportunity to use his experience in parish building and parish life when the Pallottines took on the Warburton/Yarra Junction parish in the early 80’s. With population moves, it was obvious that Yarra Junction was the population centre. Land was acquired and a church and school, under the patronage of St. Thomas A’Beckett was built. As well as the ‘practical’ tasks of dealing with funding, builders and trades people, there was the need to reassure parishioners who were hurt and disappointed at this necessary but painful change.

St. Christopher’s was quick to offer Fr. John a home when he’ retired’ from Yarra Junction in 1994.

He was glad to lay down administrative responsibilities but is still able and willing to spend time and energy in the pastoral ways, so dear to his heart.

This wonderful occasion will be celebrated at St.Christopher’s, Doon Ave Syndal On the day, Thursday, 14^th July, there will be a gathering of Pallottine priests, brothers and Diocesan priests.

On the following Sunday, 17^th July at 10.30am a parish celebration for the all Pallottine family

Reguest:  Leonie Boddington writes from Morawa, Western Australia.

Leonie writes: Hi, I was a student/boarder at the Pallottine Mission, Tardun between 1969 and 1976. I’ve started to write a book about my experience at the Mission and am looking for help. Would any staff, lay missionaries, Brothers who were there at that time remember me? Do they have any photos that I could use in my book? For example of the old church, the old school, the opening of the new church, dormitories, picnics etc. I would greatly appreciate hearing from you.

Ways of contacting me.
Mail: P.O Box 73 Morawa W.A 6623.
Phone: 08 99 11224
Email: jibilyu@hotmail.com

What a great idea, Leonie. All the best with your project

ST.VINCENT’S BIRTHDAY PARTY
Venue: Rossmoyne, Perth
Date: Sunday 24^th April

Because St. Vincent’s feast day falls at the height of summer, at a time when many people are on holiday, UAC members in Perth celebrated his birthday instead. Sunday 24^th April was chosen as the best time for people to get together and so, on the day, a congregation of about one hundred filled the chapel at Rossmoyne for a special concelebrated Eucharist. Fr. Dean Bradbury presided; Fr. Ray Hevern gave the homily, and Frs. John Luemmen, Joe Butscher, John Flynn and Jude D’Rozario were the other celebrants.

We couldn’t have asked for better weather, and the sun shining through the stained glass upon the altar was in itself an uplifting sight. A group of most accomplished musicians and choir from Riverton parish led the singing and provided glorious solo responses, psalm and Gospel acclamation. Special floral decorations enhanced the chapel, the flowers a gift from the Victorian UAC, as a tangible symbol of their sharing in the joy of the day.

Afterwards, everyone headed off to the garden area in front of Epiphany Retreat Centre, for an open-air picnic lunch. The family atmosphere reminded us vividly of Pallotti’s desire for a Union of priests and laity, which rejoiced in the bonds of loving service, with equal rights and equal responsibilities.

Following our alfresco lunch, we made our way to the hall for speeches, cutting the huge birthday cake and singing happy birthday to St. Vincent. Quite a few people had travelled considerable distances to attend, and beforehand, apologies were phoned in from places as far away as Broome, Geraldton, Mullewa and Northam. The happy atmosphere and enjoyment of the day has caused us to insist that we do it all again next year.

What’s happening with all that building at Kew? And who’s that energetic builder?

Well, at last the renovation and refurbishment of the former garage-cum-"Coff Shop"-cum-artist’s studio, has been tackled and will be finished soon, thanks to the energetic builder, Wally Vandenberg and one or two of his mates who are experts in associated trades like plumbing.

Wally has been on the job for about six weeks and is doing such a marvellous job that we reckon the Regional Leadership Team will want to start meeting there!! The whole front façade has been altered to allow direct entry to the front room which will be the resource centre and meeting room, and then through to the office situated at the rear.

There will be new carpet in the main rooms and new vinyl floor covering for the "wet" areas and kitchen. Reverse cycle cooling and heating has been installed, and window space has been enlarged. The office will be known as the UAC secretariat and will be occupied by the executive officer. The resource centre room will house various items of literature about Pallotti as well as Newsletters, both local and from overseas.

On completion, we hope to have a blessing ceremony and modest celebration to which all Pallottine Family members are welcome. Entry is free (!!!!!) and we’ll let you know the happy date, as soon as we can. Meanwhile, many thanks to Eugene and Eddy for directing the project and many thanks too to the ever-welcoming, ever-energetic builder, Wally Vandenberg.

QUEEN OF APOSTLES FEAST DAY
 – ALL OVER AUSTRALIA

This is the feast day dear to all Pallottine Family members and this year, Mary as Queen of Apostles was feted in both the West and the East of this huge continent of ours.

In Perth, the Pallottine parish of Riverton bears the name of Queen of Apostles parish, so each year, the feast day is a priority among the parishioners. This year, on the Saturday morning, there was a special Eucharist and family get together afterwards.

In Victoria, Pallottine Family members celebrated in the morning at Syndal parish and at Pallotti College Millgrove, while at Kew a small band of about eighteen people gathered in the afternoon, in a Cenacle shared experience of listening, praying and re-connecting with one another.

No matter how widely spread out we are, we are one in the mission and shared vision of Pallotti. His understanding of Mary’s role in establishing the kingdom of God and his love for her as his Queen of Apostles invites our response too, leading us deeper into our own relationship with her and through her, into the heart of our loving Lord.

N.C.C. NEWS

The National Coordination Council for the Australian UAC meets several times a year depending on how much business or how many issues need attention. The members are: Fr. Ray Hevern, (President); Cheryl Sullivan, (Secretary); Fr. Dean Bradbury, (UAC Coordinator for both W.A and Victoria); John Nagle, (President of the West Australian Local Coordination Council); Maureen Rath, (President of the East Australian Local Coordination Council); and Pat Heywood, (UAC Executive Officer).

Some recent matters for consideration and
decision-making have been:

Each meeting commences with a Eucharist in the Shrine, at Kew. In many ways the N.C.C. is breaking new ground and therefore needs a good deal of time for meetings, so much so, that at the last meeting, it was decided that the next one would be scheduled for a whole day instead of the normal three hours.

JAPANESE COOKING DEMONSTRATION AND FUNDRAISER