Aug 27, 2026
In a beautiful celebration of togetherness and faith, the Fr Jules Chevalier MSC Mission Centre in the Philippines spent the month of May marking Flores de Mayo, in honour of Our Lady.
As the month began, the Facebook page for the Fr. Jules Chevalier, MSC Mission Center sent a welcoming invite to all who might wish to participate:
“Join us in honoring Mama Mary through prayer, devotion, and community. Let us come together with hearts full of faith and gratitude as we celebrate this beautiful tradition.
Bring your flowers, rosary, and joyful spirit as we offer love and devotion to the Blessed Mother. ”
The photographs shared throughout the month showed a wonderful display of unity and community in honour of Our Lady, “where every smile, flower, and moment reflects devotion and joy. ”
From artwork, processions, and prayer, to games, music, and song, this was a truly special event, bringing local youths and their families together in a touching tribute to the Blessed Mother.
“Under the flowers and prayers, we celebrate faith, beauty, and devotion. ,” posted the Facebook page for the Fr. Jules Chevalier, MSC Mission Center.
“Flores De Mayo 2026 — a tradition filled with grace, love, and gratitude to our Blessed Mother. ”
Images via the Facebook page for the Fr. Jules Chevalier, MSC Mission Center.
Aug 25, 2026
Warmest congratulations to our 2026 Jubilarians! This summer has marked very special celebrations for four of our MSCs here in the Irish Province, as they commemorate various Jubilee years.
Congratulations to our 2026 Jubilarians! L-R: Fr Kevin Shanahan MSC (40 years), Fr Tom Mulcahy (60 years), Fr Mick Curran (60 years), and Fr Pat Glanaghy (50 years).
Fr Kevin Shanahan, from Bishopstown, Co. Cork, marked 40 years as an MSC, Fr Pat Glanaghy, from Letterkenny, celebrated 50 years since his ordination, and Fr Tom Mulcahy (Limerick) and Fr Mick Curran (Waterville, Co. Kerry), each celebrated 60 years.
Each of our Jubilarians was celebrated for the different skills and talents they bring to their ministry, as each has travelled a different path towards a common goal – sharing God’s love wherever and whenever it is needed most.
In a wonderful celebration of fellowship and community, the Jubilee ceremony paid tribute to the years gone by, while looking ahead to a positive future filled with hope and love.
2026 MSC Jubilarians, Irish Province of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart. L-R: Fr Kevin Shanahan MSC (40 years), Fr Tom Mulcahy (60 years), Fr Mick Curran (60 years), and Fr Pat Glanaghy (50 years).
Congratulations to our Jubilarians, with our gratitude for their years of dedication, brotherhood, and care in their ministry, and with every good wish for enduring health and happiness as their individual and shared journeys continue.
Aug 21, 2026
A THANK YOU FROM THE MSC POSTULANCY OF THE PROVINCE OF RIO DE JANEIRO, FOR FUNDING TOWARDS THE CONSTRUCTION OF ITS FORMATION HOUSE
Fr Pablo Moura MSC writes from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where three MSC candidates, Marllon, João Pedro, and Tiago, are currently studying under Fr Pablo’s guidance as formator. With anticipated growth in the community, alongside struggles with space and structural issues, Fr Pablo and the team have needed to raise funds to support the construction of a formation house for its students.
“By 2027, we hope to welcome five Brazilian candidates and one candidate from Mozambique,” Fr Pablo writes. “This prospect is one of the reasons that prompted us to begin construction on a new house capable of housing a group of up to fourteen candidates.”
Thanks to the great friendship and generosity of our mission friends and benefactors here in the Irish Province, we have been able to contribute to the construction project, and support these hopeful MSC candidates at the beginning of their missionary journey.
Fr Pable has sent the below letter to explain more about the project and its progress. “We would also like to express our sincere gratitude for the contribution you have allocated to this project,” he writes.
BACKGROUND AND MOTIVATION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW FORMATION HOUSE
In 2008, the Postulancy formation house of the Rio de Janeiro Province was moved from Belford Roxo (Rio de Janeiro) to Vila Velha in the state of Espírito Santo. The purpose of this move was to provide better conditions for the Philosophy Course at a college accredited by the Ministry of Education and to establish a missionary house within the outlying parish that the Province was taking over.
During the first year, the formation programme operated out of a rented house belonging to the Archdiocese; however, not only were the conditions of the house precarious, but it was also located in a neighborhood far from the MSC parish. Some time later, the Province acquired a house in one of the parish’s neighborhoods and made some necessary alterations to establish the formation house there. However, over the years, the house ceased to meet the demands of formation due to insufficient space and serious structural problems.
After an extensive search, we found another house with all the necessary documentation in order and located within the boundaries of the MSC parish. The house was purchased in 2024, and the renovation and expansion process began in April 2025.
With the renovation and expansion of this house, we will be able to offer higher-quality formation to the candidates of our Province and will also be prepared to welcome candidates from other MSC entities for the Postulancy stage. The house was designed to accommodate up to fourteen candidates plus the formator, as there are plans to increase the number of candidates in the Province and to receive candidates from the mission in Mozambique.
We are a Province entirely dedicated to serving parishes, social works, and MSC formation. Formation has always been one of our priorities; we seek to form Missionaries of the Sacred Heart with excellence for our Congregation and for the Church. However, our financial resources are limited; therefore, we would like to express our gratitude through this report for the contribution your benefactors has made to help move this project forward.
PROJECT REPORT
On April 22, 2025, we began construction of the formation house in Vila Velha, in the state of Espírito Santo (Brazil), which will house the postulancy phase for the Province of Rio de Janeiro.
We had purchased the lot, which included a house, and intended to expand it. However, when we began the renovation, the engineers discovered that the house did not have a structure strong enough to support a second story. To build the second story, we had to construct eighteen footings to ensure proper support. We had to demolish about 70% of the house and rebuild practically everything from scratch.
Below you can see what the house looked like before we began the work, as well as some images of the construction of its foundation.
When we started, the project was budgeted at R$ 579,658.39 (in Brazilian reais), but as new demands arose throughout the construction process, that amount nearly doubled. That’s when we began organizing events and seeking partners to sponsor this project. Therefore, we would like to emphasize here just how important and essential your contributions have been to keeping the project to build this religious formation center moving forward. We are working to ensure that it is completed by the end of 2026.
Current images of the construction site:
A THANK-YOU NOTE FROM ONE OF OUR STUDENTS
Dear benefactors,
It is with a joyful heart that I extend this gratitude to you for helping us with a generous donation to support the ongoing work of the Postulancy Formation House of the Rio de Janeiro Province.
The construction of this house has long been a dream of ours, as it represents a crucial stage in our formation. It is a house designed and envisioned to meet the needs of a seminary, offering not only a quality place to live but also dignity and a space that can accommodate the demands of the postulancy. We are very close to moving into this house, and your help is essential for us to complete the project.
On behalf of my formation community and on behalf of the future generations who will pass through this house of formation, I want to thank you; your contribution will be etched on the walls of our house and, above all, in the formation of each new Missionary of the Sacred Heart. Your contribution will help build men whose hearts are filled with the desire to follow Jesus and answer His call!
Thank you very much for believing in this dream and in our vocations. This is God’s project; may He richly bless the generosity of your hearts.
Tiago Barbosa – MSC Postulant
Aug 20, 2026
It has been a busy summer for our MSC community in the Philippines, with the MSC Centre for the Poor hosting community development sessions and their annual Scholars’ Summit, while the Philippine Province also welcomed four new postulants for the new formation year.
Community bonding
June saw a two-day community bonding programme for the staff, scholars, and volunteer community of the MSC Centre for the Poor, in a “meaningful and joyful” experience in Marihatag, Surigao del Sur.
From June 12th – 13th, the team worked on a communication programme, meditation sessions, and fun team-building activities. One of the main focuses was on “the importance of honest and trusting communication as the foundation of a healthy community,” explains the Facebook page for the MSC Centre for the Poor.
“Filled with laughter, fellowship, and valuable insights, the two-day gathering strengthened relationships and renewed the community’s commitment to journey together in unity and service.”
Celebrating a new missionary journey
On July 14th, the Philippine Province formally welcomed four new postulants for the new formation year, in a special Mass celebrated by Provincial Superior Fr Edwin Borlasa MSC.
The Facebook page for MSC Philippines shared photos of this wonderful event, posting from Valenzuela City: “Join us in praying for our brothers Nichols Miano (Pagadian City), John Paul Nudalo (San Francisco, Camotes, Cebu), Mark Lemuel Plata (Batangas City), and Jennel Barzo (Bantayan Island, Cebu).”
Scholars’ Summit 2026
Finally, the end of July brought the 2026 Scholars’ Summit for the MSC Centre for the Poor, at Kamalig Rest House in Brgy. Sabang, Butuan City, with the theme: “Committed to Grow, United to Serve, Building a Better Community Together”.
This gathering takes place every year, and serves as a “meaningful and successful” way for the scholars to “reflect, grow, and prepare for the year ahead”.
“The program began with a meaningful formation on self-awareness and life’s processes, followed by the planning of the scholars’ activities for the entire year,” posted the Facebook page for the MSC Centre for the Poor. “The summit concluded with a creative Group Mandala artwork, symbolizing unity and shared purpose. The following day, the activity culminated with the blessing of our scholars during the Holy Mass.”
As ever, our prayers are with our brothers in the Philippines as they continue in their remarkable work, from emergency aid in the face of natural disaster, to dedicated sustainability practices encouraging self-sufficiency and ecological awareness while providing poor and disadvantaged communities with the skill sets and means to build a positive and productive future.
Images via the Facebook:
The MSC Centre for the Poor
MSC Philippines
Aug 19, 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 update from Br Deiby, featuring the most recent update on relief efforts in the wake of the disaster.
Click here to view the full report PDF.
UNITED IN FAITH, HOPE, AND CHARITY!
PASTORAL CALL, AWARENESS, AND GUIDANCE FOR SOLIDARITY ACTION IN THE FACE OF EMERGENCY
“55 days after that fateful June 24th, today, August 18, 2026, the Church, religious communities, and every man and woman of faith and goodwill remain standing, walking alongside our suffering people.”
SECTION I: THE MEMORY OF PAIN AND THE MAGNITUDE OF THE CRISIS
- 55 DAYS AFTER THE DOUBLE EARTHQUAKE
Last June 24, 2026, left an indelible mark on our homeland. A devastating double earthquake shook the foundations of our communities, destroying homes, churches, and livelihoods in a matter of seconds. Today, exactly 55 days later, the reality of the impact remains present. Wounds do not heal overnight, and the pain of so many families who lost everything demands a living memory that does not allow for forgetfulness or resignation
- DECREASE IN AID AND TIRELESS WORK
Over the weeks, contributions and supplies have dropped drastically: aid has decreased by more than 80%. However, this has not slowed down our commitment. Work continues tirelessly, maintaining constant support for those affected, touching hearts incessantly, and seeking innovative strategies to channel resources. Physical, moral, and spiritual reconstruction will continue for many months, making it vital to sustain our supportive presence alongside vulnerable families.
Medical and Cáritas field volunteers carrying out community outreach
SECTION II: AGGRAVATION OF REALITY AND NEW IMPACTS
- THE BRUNT OF SEVERE WEATHER AND PAIN IN LA GUAIRA
In recent days, intense and prolonged rainfall has battered affected areas. The rains have not only caused flooding but have destroyed the fragile shelters of thousands of our brothers and sisters. Tents and temporary structures set up outdoors have torn and soaked completely. Entire families—with children, the elderly, and the sick—are now exposed to the elements, cold weather, and imminent risk of disease, dramatically worsening daily suffering.
- EARLY MORNING PANIC ON AUGUST 18
As if the heavy weather were not enough, in the early morning of August 18, 2026, a new 4.6 magnitude earthquake centered in La Guaira State shook the ground once again. This new tremor generated severe panic among the population, reigniting psychological trauma and constant fear. Ground instability and emotional fragility make every aftershock a direct blow to the heart of the community.
SECTION III: INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY AND EMBRACE FROM CELAM
- GRATITUDE TO THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH AND SISTER ORGANIZATIONS
We give profound thanks to God that in the midst of this tribulation we have not been alone. We deeply recognize and appreciate the valuable solidarity of organizations such as Cáritas Germany, Cáritas Italy, and various institutions of the Catholic Church across Latin America and other parts of the globe, who have stood by us through prayer, fraternity, and concrete contributions to sustain our people’s hope.
Humanitarian donations, aid boxes, and supplies logistical preparation
- PASTORAL VISIT OF THE PRESIDENT OF CELAM
We highlight in a special way the recent presence in our country of the President of the Latin American Episcopal Council (CELAM), who is also Titular Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cartagena. His pastoral visit was a true balm of comfort: he visited various locations across the Archdiocese of Caracas and the Diocese of La Guaira, listening attentively to the suffering and testimonies of affected families. In this fraternal encounter, we received an unconditional message of support from Catholic brothers and sisters in Colombia and throughout Latin America. In turn, deep solidarity and affection from the faithful people of God in Venezuela were expressed back to Colombia. This exchange reaffirms that faith transcends borders and unites us as one body in Christ.
Pastoral Visit meeting with clergy and volunteers on the ground
SECTION IV: AWARENESS AND SENSITIZATION: LET US NOT ABANDON OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS!
- LA GUAIRA AND OUR VICTIMS ARE NOT ALONE
We cannot allow exhaustion, routine, or habit to numb our capacity to feel others’ pain. We must not abandon La Guaira State; we must not abandon the victims. Behind every number, there are human faces: children who need warmth, elderly people requiring medicine, and families longing for a comforting word. Forgetting those who suffer outdoors today would mean abandoning the core mandate of Christian charity.
- SENSITIVITY AS AN ENGINE FOR CHANGE
To raise awareness is to open the eyes of the soul. It is remembering that solidarity is not giving away what we have left over, but sharing what we have with those who have nothing left. We make an urgent appeal to the collective conscience: the emergency is not over just because the cameras have turned off. Every person, family, and institution holds the opportunity to be an instrument of comfort through material contributions, prayer, and human closeness.
Support activities for children and families in disaster-affected areas
SECTION V: PASTORAL RESPONSE AND NETWORK OF FRATERNITY
- A CHURCH IN MOTION: PASTORAL CARE ON THE GROUND
In the face of adversity, the response of the Church does not stop. Under the active leadership of Parochial Caritas and the drive of Cáritas Caracas, work has not ceased for a single second. Pastoral action goes far beyond material assistance: it is a living presence that listens, embraces, strengthens faith, and evangelizes through the constant testimony of charity.
- RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES AND FAITH-BASED VOLUNTEERS
Women and men religious communities, along with priests, deacons, and laypeople, have devoted themselves entirely to this reality. They remain on the ground sharing the fate of those most in need, cooking in community kitchens, providing emotional support, and acting as beacons of light. Likewise, Diocesan Caritas teams across the country continue to organize relentlessly, activating collection centers and reaching out to send constant aid to disaster zones.
SECTION VI: STRATEGIES, ALLIANCES, AND PERMANENT CALL TO ACTION
- DIALOGUE WITH BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS
To sustain aid over time despite shortages, direct dialogue strategies have been designed with the business sector, civil organizations, and foundations. This effort aims to build strategic partnerships to channel resources, medical supplies, construction materials, and food consistently. Social responsibility combined with faith in action are fundamental pillars for sustaining ground logistics.
Strategic planning meetings and media outreach efforts
- PRAYER AND COMMITMENT TO THE END
We make a passionate call to all faithful believers to continue praying fervently to the Lord so that He continues touching generous hearts. The Church and all people of goodwill reaffirm our commitment to continue accompanying, walking, and suffering alongside our brothers and sisters. We will not leave you alone. We will maintain aid, support, active listening, and contributions for as long as necessary, because in every neighbor in need lives the face of Christ.
Bro. Deiby Fuenmayor MSC
Parish Animator – La Santa Cruz
Cáritas Caracas
Caracas, August 18, 2026
Read Br Deiby’s last letter from Caracas
Read more about ongoing relief operations in Venezuela
Aug 13, 2026
The MSC Centre for the Poor and the extended community in the Philippines have been working throughout the summer to bring aid to survivors of an earthquake and flash flood that devastated the region of Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, in July.
“Help is on the way!” posted their Facebook page in mid-July. “The MSC Center for the Poor team is on its way to Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental to bring hope and support to families affected by the recent earthquake and flash flood.”
The team were armed with a plan to support 250 families affected by the disaster, through the distribution of relief packages and Psychological First Aid. “Together, may we become instruments of compassion and hope for our brothers and sisters,” wrote the Facebook page for the MSC Centre for the Poor.
Two days later, the Facebook page posted news of the team’s successful arrival at the relief site. “Despite the challenging and hazardous road condition, the MSC Center for the Poor Relief Team has safely reached one of the communities severely affected by the earthquake and landslides in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental,” they wrote.
Finally, on July 18th, the relief team posted news of a successful mission accomplished. “The MSC Center for the Poor successfully carried out its Relief Operation and Psychological First Aid for families affected by the earthquake and flash floods in Brgy. Magulibas, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental last July 16, 2026. A total of 100 families received assistance through the provision of rice, food packs, cash support, and psychological first aid, bringing hope and comfort during this difficult time.”
The project aimed to reach 250 families, but extremely hazardous conditions made further travel impossible at this time. The mission still ensured that the emergency supplies reached those in need, although the full team were unable to get to the site. “Although our team was unable to reach the devastated community of Brgy. Nuing due to landslides that made the roads impassable, we were still able to extend our support by sending 150 sacks of rice, 10 boxes of drinking water, and food items through the parish to ensure that help reached those in need.”
“Despite the long, difficult, and dangerous journey, our mission was successfully accomplished through God’s grace and the generosity of many compassionate people.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the MSC Mission Office for facilitating the donation drive, to all our donors, benefactors, volunteers, and everyone who supported this mission. Your generosity has become a source of hope and healing for our brothers and sisters affected by this disaster.
Together, we continue to be instruments of God’s love and compassion. May God bless you all!”
Our prayers remain with all those affected by the earthquake and flash flood, and all who have worked so hard and given so much to help at the MSC Centre for the Poor and beyond.
Images via the Facebook page for the MSC Centre for the Poor.
