Oct 15, 2026
At the end of September, celebrations took place to commemorate 137 years of the Congregation of the Poor Sisters of Maiquetía in La Guaira State, one of the regions in Caracas that was most severely affected by a double earthquake earlier this year. Br Deiby Fuenmayor MSC writes with news of the event, which took place on September 26th.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND AND SPIRITUAL INSPIRATION
In celebration of the 137th anniversary of the founding of the Congregation of the Poor Sisters of Maiquetía, the diocesan and local church community gathered to mark this milestone not only through prayer, but with concrete social action. Born from the apostolic zeal and profound charity of the Servant of God Mother Emilia de San José alongside the revered Father Santiago Machado, this congregation continues to serve as a beacon of aid for those most in need.
Embracing this charism of selfless service, on Saturday, September 26, 2026, Cáritas Caracas and Holy Cross Parish joined hands to carry out a comprehensive medical, psychological, and nutritional outreach campaign to assist the people of La Guaira.
Multidisciplinary team of medical specialists, Cáritas volunteers, religious sisters, and healthcare staff assembled at Padre Machado Square.
STRUCTURAL EMERGENCY AND HUMAN RESPONSE
This initiative was organized as an urgent necessity following severe structural damage to the historic San José Hospital in Maiquetía. Caused by a intense double earthquake, the hospital building sustained critical structural fractures and was officially declared a “red tag” site, prohibiting any use of its interior facilities.
Unwilling to leave the local population without medical care, Holy Cross Parish and Cáritas Caracas established an outdoor field clinic directly in Padre Machado Square, located right in front of the damaged facility.
Operational and logistical setup in the square, featuring hygiene kits, diapers, supplies for elderly care, and hydration stations.
COMPREHENSIVE HEALTHCARE & PREVENTION
Early on Saturday, September 26, elderly citizens, children, pregnant women, and whole families attended the healthcare drive. Consultations were structured around three core pillars:
- General Medicine & Pediatrics: Comprehensive clinical assessments and diagnosis of acute and chronic conditions.
- Psychological Support: Guidance addressing post-earthquake traumatic stress and family emotional support.
- Nutritional Evaluation: Anthropometric screenings and distribution of dietary supplements to address child and elderly malnutrition.
Individualized medical consultations and clinical record registration under shade tents set up in the square.
WOMEN’S HEALTH PROMOTION & PREVENTIVE CARE
A key component of the event was raising awareness regarding women’s health. In partnership with specialized organizations, informative workshops were offered focusing on early detection of gynecological cancers and overall wellness.
In addition to medical advice, beneficiaries received complete prescribed pharmaceutical treatments directly on site, along with personal hygiene kits to support family health and dignity.
Healthcare professionals and volunteers leading the women’s health awareness and preventative care initiative.
TRIAGE, SCREENING & PHARMACEUTICAL SUPPLY
The community pharmacy station operated continuously throughout the event. Thanks to donations coordinated by Cáritas Caracas, patients were provided with antibiotics, analgesics, gastric care medications, pediatric formulas, and wound-care supplies free of charge.
Preliminary screening and blood pressure measurements taken at the initial intake area.
Extensive inventory of medications provided free of charge to attending patients.
PASTORAL CARE & CLINICAL EXAMINATIONS
Each consultation area was arranged to respect privacy and offer compassionate care. General practitioners, internists, and nurses spent dedicated time with every resident, providing dignity alongside medical assistance.
Blood pressure checks and preventative consultations provided to senior citizens.
RECREATION, HOPE & ONGOING COMMITMENT
The Maiquetía community participating in group activities while awaiting their health appointments.
Beyond medical treatments, the day became a celebration of community and faith. Attendees enjoyed live music, dancing, and recreational activities. It served as a space for shared learning, active listening, and rekindling hope in Jesus Christ.
“Our work in La Guaira State continues. Our support for the community does not stop; we remain committed to standing alongside vulnerable families with faith, love, and dedication.”
Bro. Deiby Fuenmayor
Missionaries of the Sacred Heart — Cáritas Caracas
Click to read Br Deiby’s latest update from our earthquake relief operation in Caracas.
Oct 13, 2026
This year’s annual Masses for deceased MSCs and Daughters of the Lady of the Sacred Heart will take place around the country in November, as we remember those who have gone before us into God’s loving embrace.
Annual Masses for deceased MSCs and Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart will take place in the following locations on Sunday, November 1st at 3.00pm:
Mass will also be celebrated on Sunday, November 8th at 2.00pm in St Patrick’s Church, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan.
For those who are unable to attend, the Mass from the Sacred Heart Church, Western Road, Cork, will be live streamed on the internet to allow you to participate. You can access this Mass on a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone by going to www.mscmissions.ie and clicking on the Live Stream link at the top of the page.
We would like to invite you to pray with us during the month of the Holy Souls as we remember the MSCs and Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart who dedicated their lives to the Spirituality of the Heart, and who worked so hard to ensure that the Sacred Heart of Jesus is known and loved everywhere, and by everyone.
Oct 8, 2026
The summer season was jam-packed at the Fr Jules Chevalier MSC Mission Centre in Lapu-Lapu City, in the Philippines. Their Facebook page has been keeping us updated with a whole host of wonderful photos that give us a glimpse into the busy and productive ministry and community in this warm and welcoming space.
Corpus Christi was a beautiful occasion on June 10th, presided over by Rev Fr Cirilo Asister Jr. MSC, and with the perfect musical accompaniment from the choir of the Fr Jules Chevalier Mission Center Music Ministry.
The mission centre welcomed Fr Jaime Duero MSC to the fold at the end of June, with great joy and excitement at this new arrival. “The Fr. Jules Chevalier Mission Center Community warmly welcomes you with joyful hearts and prayers,” posted their Facebook page. “May your presence among us bring renewed faith, hope, and inspiration as we continue our mission of serving God and His people.”
MSC scholars at the centre have continued with their Monthly Values Formation Programme throughout the summer, led by Mr Benny Tan. “Through reflection, dialogue, interactive activities, and faith-sharing, the scholars are encouraged to become compassionate, responsible, and mission-oriented leaders in their families, communities, and the Church,” the Facebook page explains.
The centre regularly plays host to feeding programmes for vulnerable families in the community, with an outreach programme sponsored by the Saint Egidio Community at the end of June. “Your generosity and compassion brought not only nourishing meals but also joy, hope, and smiles to the children and families in our community,” wrote the Mission Centre team. “Together, we continue to make a meaningful difference—one meal, one act of kindness, and one heart at a time.”
The Patronal Visit of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart took place through the last weeks of July, with the image of Our Lady visiting several chapels in the area, in a beautiful celebration of prayer and thanksgiving. Ceremonies took place at the Our Lady of Fatima Chapel in LEUPA, the Our Lady of All Nation Chapel in BNCA/Kolo, the San Vicente Ferrer Chapel, the San Isidro Labrador – Tangke Chapel, and the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception – Modena Subdivision, all across the region of Barangay Basak in Lapu-Lapu City. Even bad weather on some occasions didn’t deter the faithful, and special Masses were said at each visit, with guided reflection and prayer for the communities gathered.
Preparations abounded for the 2026 General Assembly, which took place on August 9th with the theme of ““Journeying Together as a Listening Church: Building Communities of Hope through the Mission of the Sacred Heart”.
“The assembly provided an opportunity to share updates, present reports, discuss community concerns, and develop recommendations and action plans for the mission center,” reported the Mission Centre’s Facebook page. “The gathering also strengthened collaboration, unity, and shared commitment among the different communities and ministries in serving the people and continuing the mission of the Sacred Heart.”
As the Centre moves ahead into the autumn months, we wish our MSC brothers and the community there every blessing for an equally fruitful autumn and winter season. May God bless and guide them as they continue in their untiring ministry to the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in the region.
Images via the Facebook page for the Fr Jules Chevalier MSC Mission Centre.
Oct 1, 2026
Br Deiby Fuenmayor MSC shares the latest update from the Venezuelan earthquake relief programme, following the double earthquake that shook the city of Caracas on June 24th. Aid efforts are ongoing following the disaster, and the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart in Venezuela are working in conjunction with Caritas Caracas to bring vital support to survivors of the quakes.
Today, we share the latest updates from Br Deiby, featuring the most recent news on relief efforts in the wake of the disaster.
PRESENCE, COMFORT AND HOPE:
Accompanying Our Affected Brothers and Sisters Three Months After the Double Seismic Event
INTRODUCTION: THREE MONTHS IN THE DESERT AND THE RESPONSE OF FAITH
Ninety days have passed since the double seismic event shook our lands, radically transforming the urban, social, and personal landscape of thousands of families in Caracas and its surrounding metropolitan areas. Following the initial impact of the disaster, the collapse of residential infrastructure, and the establishment of emergency shelters, the current reality demands a transition from immediate containment aid toward an evangelizing presence defined by permanence, closeness, and active listening.
In this scenario, men and women of good will, driven by a deep Christian and solidarity commitment, have decided not to step back. The Catholic Church, through its various religious congregations, lay movements, and in a very special way through the social ministry of Cáritas Caracas and the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, remains steadfast in the most vulnerable territories. Our vocation is not limited to material response, but encompasses the holistic healing of the wounds of the soul.
View of the temporary camp and damaged buildings: Panoramic view of the temporary shelter featuring emergency tents, affected residential structures, and the mountains of the Cordillera de la Costa range in the background.
“Being present three months after the disaster is not an act of simple technical assistance; it is the incarnation of Christ’s Love that listens, sustains, and accompanies amidst uncertainty.”
THE SITUATION ON THE GROUND: FROM COLLAPSE TO COMMUNITY LIFE IN SHELTERS
The current panorama in the areas designated for the disaster-affected victims demonstrates the complexity of an extended emergency. Families reside in temporary accommodations made of family tents, protective tarpaulins, and provisional structures built with wooden pallets, support beams, and waterproof plastic roofing. Although these solutions offer protection from the sun and rain, prolonged living under these conditions generates high levels of emotional and physical exhaustion.
Internal view of the shelter with tents: Community space for temporary shelters equipped with humanitarian assistance tents and temporary collection centers.
The proximity to properties diagnosed as high-risk or partially collapsed serves as a constant reminder to the victims of the loss of their homes and belongings. However, amidst the rows of shelters, a resilient community network has emerged where neighborhood solidarity and the organized action of the Church have begun to structure spaces for harmonious coexistence, community health, and mutual support.
Construction of provisional modules with pallets: Progressive construction of temporary housing and sanitary modules using wood and pallets to improve the dignity of families.
MISSIONARY ACCOMPANIMENT: THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS AND CÁRITAS CARACAS
The charism of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is manifested concretely in compassionate and servant love toward those who suffer most. In a strategic and operational alliance with Cáritas Caracas, the missionary teams have deployed an integrated approach that includes:
- Active Listening and Psychosocial Support: Tent-to-tent visits to offer a space where victims can express their fears, grief, frustrations, and hopes.
- Logistics and Distribution of Essential Supplies: Continuous supply of drinking water, infant formula, personal hygiene kits, and nutritional supplements directly from logistics support.
- Self-Construction and Habitat Dignification: Technical and material assistance to reinforce temporary shelters, ensuring privacy, thermal protection, and structural stability.
- Spiritual Accompaniment and Celebration of Faith: Moments of community prayer, blessing of families, and preservation of Christian hope amidst adversity.
TESTIMONIES OF PASTORAL AND HUMAN CLOSENESS
Fieldwork is measured not only in tons of supplies delivered or tents erected, but in the human impact of constant presence. The Church is not an external entity that visits sporadically, but a fraternity that inhabits the same ground and shares the same climate with those affected.
During daily outreach efforts, religious members and volunteers walk the pathways between tents to personally deliver essential supplies. Hand-to-hand contact, a shared smile, and encouraging words have restored dignity to those who felt they had lost everything.
Missionary team with affected residents: Direct delivery session of drinking water and medical supplies to women in the community.
As observed in everyday efforts, support encompasses all generations. Special care for children and nursing mothers is an absolute priority for the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart and Cáritas Caracas, ensuring that child nutrition, affection, and protection are maintained at the highest standards under emergency circumstances.
Delivery of food and supplies from vehicle: Dispatch and community logistics for infant formulas and groceries for families with children.
CONCLUSIONS AND FUTURE CHALLENGES
Three months after the double earthquake, the Church confirms that its mission is only beginning. The current phase requires sustaining active hope while efforts progress toward definitive housing solutions by the relevant agencies. Until that time comes, the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Cáritas Caracas reaffirm our unwavering commitment to remain a visible face of divine mercy, a beacon of comfort, and a supportive arm for every brother and sister affected by this disaster.
Pastoral presence on the ground: listening to affected individuals and coordinating immediate response to their needs.
We deeply thank every man and woman of good will, the donors, volunteers, and congregations who make it possible for this testimony of love to remain alive in the heart of our communities.
Bro. Deiby Fuenmayor MSC
Read Br Deiby’s last letter from Caracas
Read more about ongoing relief operations in Venezuela
Sep 28, 2026
On Monday, September 21st, the people of Majuro were struck by an entirely unexpected storm, which wreaked havoc on their population of approximately 20,000 people. Fr Tamati Sefo MSC writes from the Parish of Our Lady of Assumption, which is located in Majuro, the capital of the Marshall Islands, out in the Pacific Ocean.
“The storm struck Majuro on September 21st at around 1.00pm,” Fr Tamati explains, writing from the Province of the Pacific Islands. “There was no warning from the Meteorological Office before the storm – it came all of a sudden and lasted for four hours.”
“People were not prepared. Students at school were shocked. Many said this was a very frightening experience because strong storms rarely happen in the Marshall Islands.”
“Roofs from houses were flying everywhere. Some big trees fell. Houses belonging to our parishioners have been destroyed.”
“As I write, I do not have confirmation of the number of homes affected, but we know that at least seven of our parishioners have experienced severe damage to their houses. We are currently trying to help those affected in by providing food, water, clothes, and other essential items.”
Thanks to the generosity of our mission friends and benefactors here at home, we are able to support Fr Tamati and the community in the Marshall Islands with the provision of emergency aid for those affected by the storm. “I am writing with my gratitude to benefactors of the Irish Province of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart at this challenging time. This storm might not be that powerful compared to a typhoon or a cyclone, but is has really done a lot of damage to small family houses and old buildings where ordinary members of the community live. We are truly grateful for your kindness.”
If you can, please help us to help Fr Tamati and the people of Majuro in the wake of this sudden disaster that has cost families their homes, their safety, and their security.
Sep 24, 2026
This year, we’re celebrating the 60th anniversary of the MSC Missions Office on the Western Road, Cork, and as part of our anniversary commemorations, we’re looking back on old issues of our newsletter, the MSC Message, on a walk together down Memory Lane.
Summer 2000: Floods in Caracas – An eyewitness report by Fr Tom Mulcahy MSC
The people of Venezuela are very much on our minds and in our hearts at the moment, as our MSCs work to help communities in Caracas to repair and rebuild after a devastating double earthquake in June of this year. In the MSC Message of Summer 2000, Fr Tom Mulcahy MSC wrote with reports of terrible flooding in Caracas, and its tragic impact.
“The 15th of December 1999 brought profound changes to Venezuela,” Fr Tom wrote. He went on to describe the social and political situation in the country at the time, with the new Constitution being voted in on December 15th. “On the night of the 15th we listened to our President make his announcement of victory. The announcement didn’t do anything to dispel fears for the future,” he explained.
Fr Tom then continued, “It had been raining all year but the 14th and 15th of December were particularly bad… The night of the 15th and early morning of the 16th brought the real disaster. Water, rocks, mud and trees came tumbling down the northern face of the Avila at about 60mph, destroying all that happened to be in its way. The Avila is called a corro or hill but it is really a mountain. In that short time about 25,000 people were killed.”
“When the news broke, one of the most incredible things happened. Venezuela had been divided by the referendum. There are many religions; some of them very anti-Catholic. Venezuela reacted as if it were one person. Believers and non-believers, those who voted Yes and those who voted No… The civil population and the army, the government and non-government all pulled their weight. If you ask me where was God in all this, I would say ‘in the response of the people.’ It really was incredible.”
“You wouldn’t have seen… the medical students who made a make-shift bed and took a woman who was badly wounded over rocks, rubble and mud to the nearest medical centre at great personal risk to themselves.”
“As I write, it is still raining in places including Caracas. It is not beyond the bounds of possibility that further slippage will take place. We are still not out of the woods.”
“The geography of the state of Vargas has changed. It looks like a particularly heavily bombed area. However, I believe the interior trauma is much worse. People who have lost children, parents, brothers or sisters, and in many cases, seen them drown, carry a very heavy burden. It will take a long time to recover. In the meantime, houses must be found for about 200,000 people. That’s a mighty challenge for the Bolivian Republic of Venezuela.”
Summer 2000: Before there were churches
In 2000, the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart marked 50 years of ministry in South Africa. This wonderful photo shows Fr Michael O’Brien MSC celebrating Mass under the African sun.
Ministering under the African sun. An outdoor Mass on a hillside in the Northern Province, with Fr. Michael O’Brien, MSC. The building of churches was an ongoing necessity but many celebrations took place under trees and in school rooms and private houses until churches were built. Such scenes were part and parcel of the life of the Church and in which the MSCs played a part over the past 50 years.
Winter 2003: My Faith is stronger than my Fears
Sometimes my cross is hard to bear
for there is darkness everywhere,
And troubles pile around my door
like autumn leaves forever more.
The morning light seems far away,
like I am stuck in yesterday,
My heart is beating like a drum –
I try to pray, but words won’t come.
But then the sun begins to rise
and hope is born within my eyes,
A rainbow forms among my tears
My faith is stronger than my fears.
