By Fr. Ray Douziech, C.Ss.R.
Novitiate for 2014-2015 officially began on July 31. Father Ray, the new novice director, and Fr Ronnie, the new assistant director, were pleased to welcome the first wave of novices (see picture below). Romero Radix, (Grenada, the Caribbean Region), after a year delay because of immigration, was welcomed along with four American candidates (Richie Hennessy, Guy Mier, Tony Moreno and Ken Stigner) from the Baltimore Province. It would be another 12 days before Augustus (AJ) Riviere came from the island of Dominica, the Caribbean Region, and over three weeks before Eumir was able to get his visa. Eumir is a candidate for the Yorkton Province. He was studying in the US on a Philippine’s Passport. Unfortunately, Royce Thomas from Trinidad has yet to receive his visa for entry into Canada and will probably have to wait until the 2015 class begins next July.
In spite of the stop and go beginnings, everyone, including the new directors, are adjusting to the new reality. We have developed a good rhythm of prayer, study and self-structured and social time in the weekly schedule. Everyone is contributing to making the building our home. We also have had a chance to do some sightseeing in Toronto and enjoyed an afternoon at our cabin at Lake Chemong. The cool summer weather has allowed us to enjoy the city and our neighbourhood as well as have a few excursions outside of the city.
We certainly agree with Plato who said, “The beginning is the most important part of the work.” (Plato, The Republic). With God’s grace may the year unfold as smoothly and joyously as it has begun!
