To celebrate the bicentenary of the birth of St. Anthony Mary Claret, the founder of the Claretians, a series of activities had been planned for this year. Upon the suggestion and encouragement of our pastor, Fr. Mario Bonfaini, our Christian community held the first charity bazaar at Sacred Heart Church in Keelung, Taiwan, since the church was founded, with the proceeds for the people most in need.
Without any experience in holding a bazaar, every member of the parish shared in planning and setting up the bazaar by offering one’s money, time or talent. Teachers and students of Sacred Heart Elementary School donated generously, even as our non-Christian friends also contributed enthusiastically for this cause of helping the poor in other parts of the world. Special mention goes to our dear Fr. Yao, who founded the Sacred Heart of Jesus parish, for his financial assistance and the many religious items he gave to the bazaar, besides his encouragement and prayers.
“2007–Claretian Mission Day–2008″ helped us to understand better the meaning of Jesus’ words, “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers (sisters) of mine, you did for me.” We were really impressed by all who generously contributed in this fund-raising, Christians and non-Christians alike, united in helping those in need and sharing with them what they have. We believe that this was also what made Claret’s heart burn with zeal for the mission, which he expressed beautifully in these words, “My mission is to evangelize and let all peoples know that you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
