Pope Francis calls for us to be involved in concrete efforts to make a difference. Most members of the community are engaged in social works in their own neighbourhood.
In addition there have been combined efforts in active support of a number of social projects including:
- Trocaire
- The Peter McVerry Trust
Annual charity cycle for the homeless - Befriending Victims of Torture
- Support for Families in Direct Provision Centres
- GOOD SHEPHERD NONG KHAI
See below Antonia Symonds speak about the work at one of our liturgies in 2024
from THE JOY OF THE GOSPEL (Pope Francis)
At the very heart of the Gospel is life in community and engagement with others. (EG 177)
Nor should our loving response to God be seen simply as an accumulation of small personal gestures to individuals in need, a kind of “charity à la carte”, or a series of acts aimed solely at easing our conscience. The Gospel is about the kingdom of God (cf. Lk 4:43); it is about loving God who reigns in our world. To the extent that he reigns within us, the life of society will be a setting for universal fraternity, justice, peace and dignity. Both Christian preaching and life, then, are meant to have an impact on society. (EG 180)
An authentic faith – which is never comfortable or completely personal – always involves a deep desire to change the world, to transmit values, to leave this earth somehow better that we found it…..
All Christians, their pastors included, are called to show concern for the building of a better world. (EG 183)
Garden of Friendship Report 2025
In June, Sr. Pranee sent us the following email.
Dear all in the Orlagh Community,
It is with great pleasure that I am sending to you, the last 12 month report on the Garden of Friendship which Antonia has just completed.
With your generous bi-monthly assistance, we have been able to attend to specific needs and continue to provide a home, on-going care and community life for those who reside short or long term.
Your additional support following the floods in Nong Khai last year, allowed us to provide resources to those whose homes or livelihoods were damaged.
We were delighted to have OITC representatives come to visit, with Conor and his wife Sina arriving in March. They entered into life in the Garden with those in residence, as well as joining the Outreach Team further afield with village visitation. Please know that ‘all are welcome’.
Thank you so much for your generosity but especially, for your friendship and prayers. We pray for you too, as you continue to miss Fr John and commit to carry on his vision. With gratitude and prayers.
You can access a copy of the report here