Nov 5, 2026
Our friends in Ecuador have shared some very special pictures of their September, as the newly ordained Fr Diego stepped out to celebrate his first Masses in the indigenous communities following his ordination in August.
A picture speaks a thousand words, and this is certainly true of these wonderful photographs! Fr. Diego’s love for his mission shines through, as does the joy of the communities he is celebrating with. Fr. Diego will be leading the youth ministry programmes on our mission in Ecuador, and his dedication to young people and their journeys is an inspiration to behold.
“Thank you very much, our dear friends, for all the help you always provide us,” writes Ecuadorian Section Leader Fr Marcelo Campoverde MSC.
The next adventure coming up for the young people on our Ecuador mission is their autumn Chevalier camping session, when they come together on an outdoor pursuits camping trip, learning practical skills and nurturing the ability to work together as a group to create a positive experience for all involved. We’re already looking forward to seeing photos from the trip, and in the meantime, we wish Fr Diego, Fr Marcelo, and the Ecuador mission all the blessings of this bountiful season!
IF YOU CAN, PLEASE SUPPORT OUR GLOBAL MISSION PROJECTS
Nov 3, 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 recent updates from Br Deiby, following news on relief efforts in the wake of the disaster.
THE WORK DOES NOT STOP
ACCOMPANIMENT, LISTENING, AND CONTINUOUS SOCIAL ACTION
Amidst the adversities and complex situations experienced by so many Venezuelan families, the commitment of the Church does not diminish. Cáritas Caracas, together with La Santa Cruz Parish Cáritas and the community of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, reaffirms with deep responsibility and dedication that our humanitarian and faith-based labor continues tirelessly.
We are not limited to the simple distribution of supplies; our main mission is close accompaniment, being present, attentively listening to the pains of our brothers and sisters, and compassionately integrating into their life stories. We recognize that in every human being who suffers, there is a child of God and, therefore, a brother or sister of ours.
“Being compassionate, gentle, and humble as the Heart of Jesus calls us to feel with the vulnerable and to transform material resources into a fraternal embrace of hope.”
Dispensary and medicine inventory at the parish headquarters.
Collection of primary necessity products and hygiene supplies.
THE SPIRITUALITY OF THE SACRED HEART
Our social action springs from an inexhaustible source: the spirituality of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is from His pierced Heart that we learn the true dimension of gentleness and humility. It is not solely about responding to material emergencies, but about embodying God’s tenderness toward the most dispossessed.
Classification, categorisation, and organization of comprehensive care supplies.
PRESENCE AND RESPONSE IN THE EMERGENCY
Facing challenging situations and the reality that affects our vulnerable communities, men and women of faith respond by extending their hands and sharing their own resources. Their generosity sustains the logistics of storage, selection, and delivery in the sectors of greatest need.
Organized storage of essential medical stock, sanitizers, and emergency kits.
Mass preparation of food bags and bottled drinking water.
Collection area for essential aid and complementary food kits.
CALL TO RENEWED COMMITMENT
We deeply thank every volunteer, benefactor, and person of good will who makes it possible for this aid to reach those who are suffering in a timely manner. However, the needs remain vast and urgent.
We make a fraternal and enthusiastic call to continue collaborating with our programs. Every contribution, no matter how small it may seem, multiplied by love and faith, becomes dignity, food, and relief for the families facing adversity today. Let us continue walking together, being the visible face of Christ’s compassion in the midst of society.
Inventory of linens, warm blankets, and household care items.
Packages prepared and ready for community distribution drives.
Bro. Deiby Fuenmayor MSC
October 12th, 2026
Read Br Deiby’s last letter from Caracas
Read more about ongoing relief operations in Venezuela
Oct 29, 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.
Winter 2007: Fr. O’Connell reports on his visit to South Africa
In the Winter 2007 edition, Fr Michael O’Connell MSC wrote a report following a visit to our long-running mission in South Africa.
I visited our missionaries in South Africa earlier this year to see at first hand the great work they are doing, often under very difficult circumstances. I saw the beautiful scenery and modern buildings of the new South Africa on the one side and on the other I witnessed deprivation, hunger and poverty that is difficult to imagine without seeing it…
I brought home from Africa a picture of poor, sick, and under-nourished people smiling. Yes, smiling in spite of all the hardships in their lives.
Two young lads aged 17 and 15 welcomed me into their home. A tin shack in a settlement area. Their mother with the help of God had got them this home. Their mother was a good provider. There was room for two beds and a kitchen area with a table and a TV covered by a dolly on top of the fridge, and one electric bulb. It was so neat and tidy. On a washing line outside were their school uniforms. The water was got from taps half a kilometre away.
Their mother must have been very proud of them both. But she wasn’t there. Mother would never be there again. She was dead. These boys nursed her to the end as she died of AIDS.
They tried to support themselves by running a little stall buying crisps and peanuts in threes and selling them in ones. There was no electricity. The fridge, TV, and light bulb didn’t work. Their neighbour whom their mother paid for electricity stopped it when she died.
The boys only had one another. Their faither was non-existent. They get no support from the state… no children’s allowance… nothing! They have no identification papers and no birth cert. As far as the state is concerned these two orphans don’t exist.
Only the field worker from the parish of Fr. Herman van Diijck, msc and a few neighbours support these 2 orphan boys. The smile on their faces… the hope in their desperate lives is only there because of the support of Mission Friends, like you. You enable our MSC priests to be the Heart of Christ in Africa. Thank you.
Michael O’Connell, msc
Winter 2003: A personal reflection…
Don’t look for flaws as you go through life
It is easy enough to find them
It is wise to be kind, and sometimes blind
And to look for the virtues behind them.
Winter 2007: Direct from the MSC Mission Fields
Stories straight from our global mission fields, from Winter 2007.
For this young child a bath is a wash in a small plastic basin outside on the open ground. In the context of the comforts enjoyed by most of us in Ireland and Britain, this photo brings home to us the poor living standards of fellow humans in many parts of South Africa where Fr. O’Connell took this photo during his visit last Spring. But the child seems reasonably happy with his lot. Not only is housing very poor but water is a scarce resource. Our thanks to the Mission Friends who made donations recently towards the well-drilling work of Fr. Andre Bohas, msc who deeply appreciates the support.
House building South African style! In a township Fr. O’Connell met this young man building a house for himself. He had no worries about planning permission, foundations, or the type of materials. He just identified a piece of ground and laid claim to it, then collected pieces of timber and sheets of galvanise and Perspex, and started building. For a window he found an old one in the dump, and he expected to pick up a door likewise. His house was right beside an old drain taking refuse water from thousands of other such houses.
To us an empty Kerrygold butter carton is rubbish – question is will we recycle it or send it to landfill. No such worries for this orphan queuing up for his daily meal at the Sithandz Care Centre in Tsakane, Guateng Province in South Africa… he is one of 450 who call each day, and the Kerrygold carton is his bowl for his meal. Sr. Mary Tuck – a Dominican Sister – does great work at the Centre that provides a variety of services for the poor of the area.
When Fr. Tom Jordan msc visited his relations in Athenry, Co. Galway recently we got this photo from him. Fr. Tom is such a caring and jolly person, and this elderly lady is obviously very pleased with his home visit to her in his parish in one of the poorest areas of Caracas city in Venezuela. Fr. Tom runs several social projects in the parish including a soup kitchen for children and the elderly, subsidised medical and dental services, 3 pre-schools for 100 children, training in computers, and plans for training for women in hairdressing and in cooking. He thanks the Mission Friends who made recent donations towards this work amongst the very poor.
Oct 22, 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 recent updates from Br Deiby, following news on relief efforts in the wake of the disaster.
The Work Does Not Stop: Accompanying, Listening, and Remaining
«Let us not grow weary of doing good. Behind every box of supplies and every bag delivered lies a human story in need of being heard, a heart seeking comfort, and the firm certainty that they are not alone.»
In the midst of challenging times and the complexities that continue to define the daily life of our communities, the work of love and service in La Guaira State remains steadfast, unwavering, and constant. The reality facing this coastal region continues to be deeply complex and harsh—a reality that every single Venezuelan understands and witnesses firsthand. We are fully aware that aid has diminished significantly in recent times. Yet, in the face of scarcity and fatigue, the Gospel’s response is not withdrawal, but perseverance.
Volunteer Strength and Arduous Work. Young men and volunteers dedicate their physical efforts to loading the relief truck with essential supplies. Thanks to donors and the willingness shared across platforms and communities, we bring hope to the most vulnerable areas of La Guaira.
The work does not stop. It continues day by day through the coordinated efforts of the Catholic Church, parish Caritas teams, non-profit organizations, and, in a very special way, through the infinite generosity of donors and people of goodwill who share their resources so that aid reaches those most in need.
BEYOND MATERIAL AID: THE ART OF ACCOMPANIMENT
Even though streams of external support have decreased, the power of solidarity is not measured by the abundance of excess, but by the willingness to share whatever we have. Every truck loaded and every package prepared represents a daily miracle of faith in action.
Logistics of Love and Hope. Bags of relief provisions organized meticulously by parish Caritas networks. Each package stands as a direct testimony to our unconditional commitment to affected families.
Behind every donation and delivery made to a family, what truly matters is the ability to listen, to be present, and to belong to one another. We are all beloved children of God, who loves us, knows us, and desires that everyone returns to stability.
- TOUCHING HEARTS Continuing in prayer to inspire hearts to share resources with those in need.
- COMPASSIONATE PRESENCE Listening to and welcoming each family within their unique life situation.
- UNCONDITIONAL WORK Persevering effort by the Church and parish Caritas teams without faltering.
- PATH TO STABILITY Walking together toward the integral well-being that God envisions for Venezuela.
Let us continue moving forward. The work carries on, support continues to flow, and we keep walking alongside our brothers and sisters. May solidarity remain our guiding light.
CHARITY AND SUPPORT FOR OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS CONTINUES
PROVINCIAL UNITY AND MISSION IN MARACAIBO
Within the framework of fraternity and pastoral discernment of our congregation, the Community of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is gathered in the city of Maracaibo. This meeting benefits from the guiding presence of the Provincial Superior, Reverend Father Joe McGee MSC, and specially incorporates the fraternal participation of Reverend Father Humberto Henriques MSC, Provincial Elect of Rio de Janeiro.
While the leadership and the MSC community are gathered in the city of Maracaibo, all pastoral, social, and charitable action of Cáritas remains fully active and providing its services without stopping for a single moment. Charity takes no breaks: thanks to the commitment of the team of volunteers and laity of the Chevalier Family, our work continues to give daily responses to our brothers and sisters.
“Urged by the love of Christ, we testify that charity does not stop: faith is transformed into concrete service towards the most vulnerable.”
– Community of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
KEY OPERATIONAL FRONT
- Organization of Donations: Systematic classification and inventory management of incoming assistance.
- Delivery of Supplies and Food: Direct distribution of essential sustenance to prioritized families.
THE ACTIVE SERVICE OF CHEVALIER VOLUNTEERS
The operational backbone of this work relies on the tireless dedication of the team of volunteers and laity of the Chevalier Family. Closely connected with the MSC community of Propatria, these brothers and sisters have taken on the responsibility of keeping humanitarian assistance operations active.
The work of Cáritas continues to provide comprehensive assistance thanks to this solidarity network. Attention channels via social media and telephone lines remain open daily to respond to requests for medicines, food, and general support.
- Storage and Sorting: Continuous processing and safe storage of donated goods.
- Maternal Care and Supplies: Dedicated attention and provision of essential goods for mothers and infants.
Thanks to the close coordination of this volunteer team, a rapid response to priority cases is achieved, proving that lay fraternity is the pillar that energizes our mission.
GRATITUDE TO BENEFACTORS AND HEALTHCARE ASSISTANCE
We give thanks to God for the generosity of all benefactors—men and women of deep faith and goodwill. Their donations make possible the timely delivery of essential medical supplies, chronic condition treatments, and crucial pediatric materials.
The pharmaceutical and health management of Cáritas Propatria continuously serves patients with joint, hypertensive, and respiratory conditions, channeling each medication with equity and care.
- Specific Medications: Distribution of specialized pharmaceuticals like Glucon Plus, anti-inflammatories, and chronic care treatments.
- Pediatric Supplies and Equipment: Focused delivery of nutritional supplements and child health items.
DIRECT AND SPECIALIZED HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE
Our work extends deeply into cases of critical vulnerability. Through articulation with partners and donors, Cáritas provides complete medical treatments to diagnosed patients, as well as adult diapers, anatomical protectors, and specialized pediatric medication.
Each delivery represents tangible comfort. The faces of the children served and the relief of families are the greatest motivation for our volunteers. We maintain an open channel for incoming requests to ensure aid reaches where it is needed most, quickly and effectively.
COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT FOR SENIOR CITIZENS & VULNERABLE CASES
Within our social care program, we identify specific requirements that extend beyond medication supply. Thanks to Divine Providence and received donations, we successfully deliver home rest equipment and supplies to elderly individuals living in extreme vulnerability.
These distributions directly transform the quality of life of our elderly, providing dignity, comfort, and the certainty that their parish community accompanies and protects them.
“Every gesture of love directed toward our elders reminds us of God’s tenderness toward the most vulnerable.”
PARISH REOPENING AND EXPANSION TO LA GUAIRA STATE
As we fully resume the pace of parish activities and standard Cáritas services starting next Monday, October 12th, we firmly renew our commitment to the most vulnerable. We extend our dedication to listen, welcome, and actively support the communities of La Guaira state, projecting the extension of our social outreach programs.
UNITED IN PRAYER AND FAITH
We continue to count on the prayers, affection, and support of the entire ecclesial community. We ask the God of Life to bless the MSC Community gathered in Maracaibo, strengthen Provincial Superior Rev. Fr. Joe McGee MSC, Rev. Fr. Humberto Henriques MSC (Provincial Elect of Rio de Janeiro accompanying us in this time of discernment), and bestow abundant blessings upon all our laity and benefactors.
Bro. Deiby Fuenmayor MSC
Read Br Deiby’s last letter from Caracas
Read more about ongoing relief operations in Venezuela
Oct 21, 2026
Welcome to the Winter 2026 edition of the MSC Message!
- Read a special seasonal greeting from Fr John Fitzgerald MSC, Director of the MSC Missions Office.
- Catch up on the latest news from the mission fields, including updates from our MSC brothers in Venezuela and the Philippines.
- Enjoy the latest updates from the Irish Province, with news of our fundraising pilgrimage along St Declan’s Way, and our annual Novenas to the Sacred Heart and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.
- Celebrate a Jubilee year with four of our Irish MSCs.
- Discover more about the missionary journey of our MSC scholars in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Join us as we take a walk down Memory Lane, in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the MSC Missions Office on the Western Road, Cork.
Please click here to read the Winter 2026 edition of the MSC Message
Oct 16, 2026
The end of September saw Team MSC journey to Fatima on our annual pilgrimage, led by Spiritual Director Fr Joe McGee MSC, and accompanied by fellow MSCs Fr Giacomo Gelardi and Fr Gerry Thornton.
More than 30 pilgrims journeyed from all over Ireland, on a pilgrimage of prayer, contemplation, and reflection from September 22nd to 26th. New friendships blossomed and flourished over the five days, and a group that met as strangers went home as friends, sharing a very unique bond and memories to last a lifetime.
This year’s pilgrimage was a truly special journey for all involved, all the more so for the beautiful music provided throughout the trip by Phil and Elaine, founders of the Island of Ireland Peace Choir. “Honoured to lead the music on our pilgrimage to Fatima with the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart,” they wrote on their Facebook page for Celtic Ways Ireland. “A journey of a difference for us that gave us more than we could have ever imagined”.
With ample opportunity for prayer and spiritual renewal in this blessed space, the pilgrimage also offered plenty of chances to explore local pathways, enjoy fresh food, and make the most of fun, sunshine, and song with like-minded pilgrims and friends.
The stunning local landscape provided a perfect backdrop to prayer, reflection, and good conversation, while the group took in several sacred sites, including the Basilica of the Rosary, the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, the Way of the Cross, and Valinhos, where Our Lady appeared to the Children of Fatima, the three little shepherds, in August 1917. The candlelight procession was also a highlight of the trip, as was a special Mass led by our MSCs at the Shrine of Fatima, where our group prayed for their personal intentions and our mission friends across the world.
Our pilgrims returned home replenished in body and spirit after a truly wonderful trip where new friendships were made, and old and enduring bonds were strengthened. Heartfelt thanks to all involved for a triumphant pilgrimage journey!
