$$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$% $$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$% $$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$% $$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$% IL POSTINO • OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA IL POSTINO CUSTOMER NUMBER: 04564405 PUBLICATION AGREEMENT NUMBER: 1835041 V O LU M E 1 , N U M B E R 3 ~ D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 0 Mer Mer Mer Mer Merr r ry Christmas y Christmas y Christmas y Christmas y Christmas Buon Natale Buon Natale Buon Natale Buon Natale Buon Natale Joyeux Noël Joyeux Noël Joyeux Noël Joyeux Noël Joyeux Noël Mer Mer Mer Mer Merr r ry Christmas y Christmas y Christmas y Christmas y Christmas Buon Natale Buon Natale Buon Natale Buon Natale Buon Natale Joyeux Noël Joyeux Noël Joyeux Noël Joyeux Noël Joyeux Noël 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
Transcript
I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
Contributors for this issue(in alphabetical order) Tony Alloggia, Walter Cibischino,Petra Ciobanu, Carmine DeLuca, Colin Donelle, Alfredo
Maiolo, Oliviana Mingarelli, Luciano Pradal, Peter Scott,Fiona Story
Front Cover PhotosArchives from Angelo Filoso, Italo Tiezzi, Peter Scott, the
Mingarelli family and the D’Amelio family
Special thanks toFrancesco Lorrigio and Italo Tiezzi
SubmissionsWe welcome submissions, letters, articles, story ideas andphotos. All materials for editorial consideration must be
double spaced, include a word count, and your full name,address and phone number. The editorial staff reserves the
right to edit all submissions for length, clarity and style.
Next DeadlineDecember 18, 2000
Il Postino is a publication supported by its advertisers andsale of the issues. It is published monthly. The opinions andideas expressed in the articles are not necessarily those held
S U B S C R I P T I O N / A B B O N A M E N T O~ Yes, I want to subscribe to twelve issues of Il Postino Sì, vorrei abbonarmi a Il Postino per 12 numeri~ $20.00 Subscription Canada / Abbonamento Canada~ $38.00 Subscription Overseas / Abbonamento Estero
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to / intestato a: Preston Street Community Foundation Inc., Suite 101 Gladstone Avenue 865, Ottawa, Ontario K1R 7T4
Name and Surname: / Nome e cognome:_______________________________________
The Canadian Museum of Civilization is preparingan exhibition on the cultural heritage of Italian-originimmigrants who settled in Canada.
The goal of the exhibition is to restore an appre-ciation for the rural culture that was the heritage ofthe great majority of Italian-Canadian immigrants andthat too often has been disparaged as the remnant ofa past way of life and left behind by the modern world.
The exhibition will show, on the contrary, how vari-ous components of this traditional rural culture stillhave many lessons to teach us and how that culturecan also help us to deal with contemporary problemsby providing us with way of thinking and acting, aswell as with values, that might provide solutions forpresent-day conditions.
To produce this exhibition, the exhibition team isin search of material that illustrates the rural heritageof Italian-Canadian in the following areas:
•food and foodways•work (artisanal trades, etc.)•sociability (leisure, friendship, celebrations,
games, etc.)•spirituality (religion, religious festivals, etc.)For each of theses areas of the exhibition we are
in search of the following types of materials:•traditional or modern objects (including tools,
clothing, household items like cooking, utensils, etc.)•works of art (popular or any other type including
paintings, sculptures, etc.)•written or printed documents (passports, trade
certificates or licenses, etc.)•archival or other photographs•photos from family albums•clippings from newspapers either contemporary
ones or ones that are no longer publishedIf you know of anyone who might be able to do-
nate or loan any of these components for the dura-tion of the exhibition or if you would like to have moreinformation about this project, please contact MauroPeressini.
APPEL A LA COMMUNAUTÉITALO-CANADIENNE
Le Musée canadien des civilisations prépare uneexposition sur l’héritage culturel des immigrantsd’origine italienne venus s’établir au Canada.
L’exposition aura pour but de redonner valeur auxcultures paysannes dont sont originaires la grandemajorité des immigrants italo-canadiens et qui ont ététrop souvent décrites comme appartenant à un mondedépassé par la modernité.
L’exposition veut montrer au contraire commentplusieurs aspects de ces cultures paysannestraditionnelles ont encore beaucoup de choses à nousapprendre et comment elles peuvent même nousaider à affronter les problèmes du mondecontemporain en nous fournissant des manières depenser et de faire ainsi que des valeurs qui constitu-ent peut-être des solutions aux difficultés du mondemoderne.
Pour réaliser cette exposition, nous sommes à larecherche de matériel qui illustre les traditionspassées dans les domaines suivants:
•l’alimentation;•le travail (métiers artisanaux, etc.);•la socialité (loisirs, amitié, fêtes, jeux, etc.);•la spiritualité (religion, fêtes religieuses, etc.).Pour chacun de ces domaines, nous sommes à la
rechereche:•d’objets traditionnels ou contemporains•d’oeuvres d’art et d’art populaire (peinture, sculp-
ture, etc.);•de documents écrits (passeports, cartes de
métier, etc.);•de photos d’archives ou contemporaines•de photos d’albums de famille;•de coupures de journaux anciens et récents.Si vous avez des idées de personnes qui pourraient
donner ou prêter certains de ces éléments pour ladurée de l’exposition ou si vous désirez avoir plusd’informations sur ce projet, prière de contacter MauroPeressini.
Mauro Peressini, Ph.D., Conservateur/CuratorMusée canadien des civilisations / Canadian Museum of Civilization
100 rue Laurier / Laurier StreetC.P. 3100, succursale B / P.O. Box 3100, Station B
This issue of Il Postino will be the last issuesent to you without a subscription. Tocontinue recieving Il Postino please fill outthis form and send it in with the self-addressed envelope inserted in this month’s issue. The cost to subscribe is $20.00 for 12 issues. We appreciate yourcontinued support and hope you encourage other members of the community to subscribe.Questo è l’ultimo numero del nostro giornale che sarà inviato gratuitamente ai non-abbonati. Chi non è abbonato e volesse continuare a ricevere Il Postinoè pregato di riempire il modulo che si trova alla seconda pagina e inviarcelo nella busta allegata a questo numero. Costo dell’abbonamento: $ 20 per 12numeri. Noi del Postino ringraziamo tutti coloro che ci hanno sostenuti e che continuano a sostenerci. Fate conoscere Il Postino ai vostri amici eincoraggiateli ad abbonarsi.
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I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
I L P O S T I N ODecember 2000 Page 3
Benvenuti nel Canada, terra di speranze, sogni realizzatie non realizzati per tanti Italiani che hanno lasciato 'lamamma, la pasta ed il sole' in cerca di fortuna.
Prima di arrivare ad Ottawa non avevo mai pensato aquanto fosse forte la presenza italiana nella capitalecanadese. Ma la prima volta che mi sono recato a PrestonStreet mi sono reso conto del considerevole numero dipersone che, pur lasciando la terra natia, cercano e trovanoquell’angolo di Italia in una nazione così lontana. Ricordodi essermi fermato a parlare con signori che stavano perentrare in bar dal nome tipicamente italiano. Parlando delpiù e del meno con questi Canadesi di cittadinaza, maItaliani nell’animo, mi sono accorto che in fondo hannomantenuto le abitudini tuttora presenti nei tanti paesiniche in fondo rappresentano il cuore dell’Italia .Prima ditutto il riunirsi intorno ad un tavolo per sorseggiare unabirra o per farsi una partita a scopa, e poi soprattuttoguardare 90esimo minuto e la domenica sportiva. A talproposito un ragazzo canadese mi ha posto un interessanteinterrogativo: “ma per voi é più importante vedere il Papain Piazza San Pietro o l’incontro Milan-Juve?” Uno scrittore,qui forse un pò trascurato, avrebbe detto:”ai posteri l’arduasentenza”, anche se probabilmente avrebbe optato anchelui per la seconda ipotesi.
Ho trascorso ormai due mesi da studente “bus-dipendente” in questa città che personalmente trovo moltoaffascinante. E nonostante diversi ragazzi ripetono troppospesso la parola ‘boring’ per descrivere la vita ad Ottawa,devo dire che sono rimasto notevolmente impressionatonon solo da downtown ma anche da altre zonecaratteristiche di questa capitale così diversa daltipico centro Italiano.
Cosa mi aspetto ancora da Ottawa? Potervedere il Natale. Sarebbe davvero bello poterun giorno raccontare ai nipotini ledifferenze tra le festività cel-ebrate in Canada e quellecelebrate in Italia. Ladomanda nasce spontanea:saranno le tradizioni el’atmosfera così diversedalle nostre? Di una cosasono certo: in Italia non ènecessario togliersi lescarpe una volta entrati acasa della mamma checomtempla il presepefatto con tanto amore.Già il presepe...almeno dalle mie parti,ha una importanza nonsolo simbolicama anchee s t e t i c a ;generalmente lo siprepara l’8dicembre e losi mantienefino al giornodell’Epifania.Esso èconsideratoanche unmotivo diorgoglio pert a n t e
famiglie cattoliche, una sorta di gradevolearredamento per i tanti amici e parenti che verrannodurante le feste natalizie a rendere doverosa visita.Sempre nelle mie zone, il 25 dicembre viene inoltreassociato al ‘terrificantè’ pranzo natalizio che ticostringerà a rimanere incollato alla sedia per ore edore. Sarai costretto (tuo malgrado) ad ingurgitare tuttii tipi di pasta, soprattutto nel Sud Italia, e a riempirti didolci tipici e del miglior vino rosso conservato appostaper l’occasione. Alle fine del pranzo, come se nonfosse bastato il capitone mangiato le sera del 24, saraiobbligato anche ad assaggiare il pandoro o ilpanettone. Ma dovrai scegliere pandoro o panettone?Insieme alle lamentele sul governo e alle sceltesbagliate di Trapattoni, questa è una delle questioniche assillano l’Italiano medio in questo periodo.
Le festività ormai si avvicinano e davvero michiedo se riuscirò mai a gustare quel delizioso dolcetipico Italiano che risponde al nome di panettone. Nonso se in Canada sia consumato o no ma spero propriodi trovare al piu presto un estimatore di questaspecialità milanese che sia disposto a dividere conme anche solo una fetta!
Uno dei momenti più intensi e caratteristici delNatale in Italia coincide con la messa della notte tra il24 ed il 25. Alla fine della celebrazione anche persone
solitamente poco praticanti si incontrano davantialla porta della chiesa; si scambiano gli auguri
quasi fraternamente sperando che qualchefiocco di neve possa cadere per sugellare il
magico momento. Be anche questa è lamagia del Natale!
Chiedendo delle prossimefestività ad un ragazzino(infreddolito più di me alla fermatadell’autobus) mi è stato rispostoche qui tutto sara molto “cool”
soprattutto perchè ilParlamento saràc o m p l e t a m e n t e
illuminato e forse si potràgià iniziare a pattinare sulRideau.
Ad essere sinceri nonso se vedendo tuttociò avrò la stessasensazione che hoavuto trovandomi di
fronte a Trinità DeiMonti a Roma o apiazza della
Signoria aFirenze, ma sono
del l ’avv isoc h e
assisteròad uno
spettacolod a v v e ru n i c o
sempres p e -rando
di non diven-tare un ghia-cciolo o unpupazzo di
neve!
Qualche anno fa avevamo passato i giorni dellavigilia di Natale con la famiglia alla casa dicampagna dei nostri cognati Angelo e Lupe;
avevamo trascorso ore felici assieme ad altri famigliarie amici.
Nel pomeriggio del giorno di Natale eravamo sullavia del ritorno, in direzione di Ottawa, quando notaiche le macchine che incontravamo per le strade quasideserte ci facevano dei segnali con i loro fari. Accesila radio in tempo per il giornale radio delle ore 16.
Annunciavano che una violenta bufera saliva lungoil fiume San Lorenzo ed aveva già paralizzato tutte lecittà e tutti i villaggi che aveva incontrati. Il notiziariocontinuava incitando I viaggiatori a lasciar libere lestrade: era permesso solo ai veicoli d’urgenza diviaggiare.
Questo drammatico notiziario mi fece capire laragione dei segnali con i fari e ci obbligò a ritornaresubito alla fattoria da dove eravamo partiti circamezzora prima. Lupe ed Angelo ci accolsero consorpresa e a braccia aperte. Non sapevano il perchédel nostro ritorno. La risposta non si fece aspettare.Infatti appena entrati in casa la bufera si scatenò intutta la sua furia. Un forte vento spazzò chissà dovel’abbondante neve che era già caduta, mentre iltermometro continuava a perdere colpi. Noi cisentivamo al sicuro in casa, lieti di averla scappatabella.
Dopo non molto venne a mancare l’elettricità, cosache succede in quell’ ambiente rurale ma colse disorpresa noi gente abituata alla vita di città.
Riuscimmo a sopravvivere a questi inconvenientimettendoci tutti, adulti e bambini, a tavola a giocarea tombola. Ci volle poco: una lampada a petrolio,qualche fagiolo secco ed un gioco di tombola di etàvenerabile che i genitori di Angelo avevano portatoin Canada dall’Italia.
Mentre fuori imperversava la tempesta, l’atmosferache regnava in casa e alla tavola era cordiale. Eravamocontenti. I rapporti tra genitori e figli erano piùarmoniosi del solito, rendendo ancora più belli imomenti di quello che era di per sé, per tutti, ungiorno di Natale molto speciale.
L’ambiente rurale ne era complice e teatro unico.Le due stufe a legna, che emanavano un torporeinsolito, il profumo dei cibi con esse preparati, ilcrepitio della legna, le lampade a petrolio e le ombreda esse create, influenzavano i nostri spiriti. Ognunodi noi sentiva che il pericolo della bufera ci univa inun rapporto umano, una solidarietà mai conosciutasino allora.
Durante la notte l’elettricità ritornò. L’indomani, ilgiorno dopo Natale, ci svegliammo prigionieri delfreddo, un freddo impossibile a descrivere. Bisognaprovare per credere!
Seguendo i consigli di Angelo, che era già uscitoper nutrire gli animali, mi vestii molto bene ed usciiper installare il cavo elettrico e poter così riscaldare ilmotore della macchina. Un’operazione abitualmentesemplice che quella mattina dovetti fare in quattrotempi per evitare di congelarmi le mani e il viso. Nelpomeriggio fummo in grado di far partire la macchinaed iniziare con molta prudenza il rientro verso Ottawa.Fuori di casa, capimmo subito che il freddo avevaparalizzato tutto. La macchina si muoveva dura comeun blocco di ghiaccio in un paesaggio deserto, im-mobile, cristallino. Le campagne, gli alberi, le strade,i nostri animi — tutto era attanagliato dalla morsa delfreddo. O forse ci sembrava così perché dovevamolasciare quel luogo dove avevamo trascorso inperfetta letizia il più semplice e il più memorabilegiorno di Natale.
Un Natalesemplicemente
memorabiledi Luciano Pradal
Memories of Christmas / Ricordi di Natale
di Carmine DeLucaUn panettone
I L P O S T I N O December 2000Page 4
I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
Ricordo dei caduti
Community / Comunità
by Angelo FilosoThe Honorable Franco Danieli, Under-
secretary of Italy’s Department of ForeignAffairs visited Ottawa in October during aworld tour with the intention of meetingItalians abroad.
After his tour of Villa Marconi at 1026Baseline Road, he spoke to the communityin the Garibaldi Community Hall of theMarconi Campus. During his speech Danieliemphasized that Italy has changed its im-age from 25 years ago, a country knownfor pasta and mandolins. Today, Italy is thethird largest exporter of the G7 countries.
His mission in Canada is to address theeconomic, cultural, and social issues of Ital-ians living outside of Italy and who want tomaintain a close relationship with their na-tive land. Danieli also indicated that one ofhis goals is to unite the Italians of the worldin a global economy and a better quality oflife. This would include being politicallyactive in pushing the Italian government forthe reformation of laws that will addresstoday’s reality.
Danieli visits Villa Marconi
Danieli congratulated the board of VillaMarconi for completing phase one of thenursing home. He also inferred that thesupport and maintenance of this culturallysensitive institution by the Italian commu-nity has been a benefit for the Ottawa com-munity at large.
To mark the occasion of his visit to VillaMarconi, its president Luigi Mion presentedDanieli with a certificate of recognition forhis efforts to improve the quality of life forall Italians residing outside of Italy.
Above: Luigi Mion making apresentation to H. Franco Danieli, HE.Roberto Nigido and Lucio Appolloni.Below: Danieli with Anna Marcantonio.
—Angelo Filoso
Sergeant Angelo Fiore, H.E.Roberto Nigido and Chief Vince Bevan.
by Laura D’AmelioBoth organizers and guests
were pleased with the turnoutfor the Miss Abruzzo Pagent for2001, held on November 11.Now in its 27th year, this pag-eant is funded by the CentroAbruzzese Canadese Inc., andis a celebration of Italian cul-ture and youth.
This year’s contestantswere Cristina Buffone,Francesca Forza, GiovannaMingarelli, and Julia Dinardowho was crowned Queen. Or-ganizers Angiolina Ricottilli,Laura D’Angelo and RosannaZorzo have put hours of hardwork and planning into thepast months to put together theevent.
Judges Mary Pitt, mayor ofNepean, and her husband Ronand lawyers Dan and Carol-Lynne Dunlap were enthusias-tic about the event and theirparticipation. Carol-LynneDunlap was impressed by thespirit and commitment of thecontestants. Ron Pitt com-mented that the girls were allraised extremely well and was impressedat how well they “fit into Canadian main-stream but are also at ease with their Ital-ian culture and heritage.”
While the community has been enjoy-ing this event for over two decades, par-ticipation for the competition is dwindling.President of the Centro AbruzzeseCanadese Inc., Mr. Delio D’Angelo, notes,“Just nine years ago we had 1000 people
Abruzzo beauties
attend and 12 contestants. It seems thatfamilies have grown up and the thinkinghas changed.”
The organizers do not understand thelack of interest. Each contestant receiveda number of prizes and any profit from theevent was put towards scholarships andcommunity children’s programs. “It’s funto be involved in,” says Rosanna Zorzo, “It’sjust that the girls are so shy.”
This year’s winner, Julia Dinardo
Domenica 5 novembre circa millepersone si sono raccolte nella chiesa diSant’Antonio per ascoltare le parole di S.E.Paolo Romeo sui caduti di guerra. Insiemeai rappresentanti dell’associazione deicombattenti, e di varie società locali, hannoassistito alla messa rappresentanti dellevarie armi - marinai, carabinieri, bersaglieri,alpini - e rappresentanti del governofederale, regionale e municipale, oltre chedel governo italiano. L’importanza della
cerimonia P stata sottolineata dallapartecipazione di S.E. Roberto Nigido,ambasciatore d’Italia, e di Vice Bevan,massima autorità della Ottawa Police Force,che era accompagnato dalla sua famiglia.Il coro di Sant’Antonio ha contribuitoall’atmosfera del tutto con magnificheesecuzioni canore. Ha chiuso l’evento unricevimento offerto dalla comunità eorganizzato dalla St. Anthony’s Ladies Aid.
PHOTO: TONY ALLOGGIA
PHOTO: TONY ALLOGGIA
This year’s contestantswith last year’s winners.
PHOT
OS: W
ALTE
R CIB
ISCHI
NO
PHOTO: ANGELO FILOSO
I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
I L P O S T I N ODecember 2000 Page 5
Working together for a better world
Community / Comunità
by Oliviana MingarelliPietro Anselmo and the Saunders-Matthey Foundation
hosted a seafood feast in order to raise money for the Chil-dren’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) and breast can-cer research on November 10.
This annual gala evening was held at the Contessa Ban-quet Hall, owned by Mr. Anselmo, in loving memory of thedeath of his young daughter Josie who was treated at CHEO.This year’s gala was also linked with breast cancer researchin remembrance of the wife and daughter of Ray Matthey,Jeannette M. Matthey and Susanne Saunders, who bothdied of breast cancer.
The seafood feast was emceed by Franco Spagnolo andMarietta D’Alessio. They saw to it that everyone purchasedat least one set of tickets for the draw, which included adiamond ring and a day at the spa. Entertainment pro-vided by the talented Europa Band accented the Christ-mas trees and ice sculptures that magnificently decoratedthe hall.
In attendance were such political figures as Ottawa’smayor-elect, Bob Chiarelli and former candidate ClaudetteCain. Former talk show host Dini Petty also attended show-ing her support for the causes.
However, every guestcame to show support andenjoy the atmosphere. Theseafood, I was told, was ex-cellent, however I must ad-mit that I ate the roast beefdinner, offered to thosewho do not enjoy seafood.
Some very poignant in-formation about breast can-cer was made available toguests by the Saunders-Matthey Foundation. Breastcancer strikes one in ninewomen. It kills an esti-mated 5,400 women a yearin Canada alone women(and over 100 Canadianmen as well). Breast can-cer is brought on by environ-mental, genetic and lifestyle factors and it can strike any-one at any time. Ray Matthey’s wife Susanne bequeathedher estate to continue the fight against this horrible disease.
per Peter ScottDiamo il benvenuto al nuovo parroco Padre Paolo
McKewon O.S.M. Padre Paolo non è un viso nuovo aSant’Antonio, infatti lo abbiamo avuto come assistenteparroco, dal 1973 al 1976. Padre Paolo porta con sé unricco bagaglio di esperienze, è stato professore edirettore di scuola per diversi anni in diverse scuole.E stato priore e vicario per tre anni a S. Bonaventuraqui ad Ottawa. Fu cappellano militare nell’Aviaazioneper dodici anni. È di nuovo tornato ad Ottawa perassumere le carica di parroco a Ste. Géneviève.
E recentemente tornato dall’Italia dove ha passatodue mesi a riforbire il suo italiano. Contando sullacontinuata collaborazione dei parrocchiani,auspichiamo a Padre McKeown tanto succeso e tantesoddisfazioni nella nostra comunità parrocchiale diSant’Antonio.
BenvenutoPadre Paolo,nella nostraparrocchia!
Honouring Luigi Mion
by Colin Donelle Their stories make you want to drop everything
and lend a helping hand. Their entire lives they have sacri-ficed their spare time to their community. When the cityof Nepean wanted to congratulate their volunteers withMillennium 2000 medals, it was no surprise to see LuigiMion as a winner. His involvement has transformed theItalian community.
Mion is presently the head of Villa Marconi, but hisvolunteer service has extended throughout his entire life.Arriving in Canada from Italy in 1954, he has always soughtto improve the community for future generations. He hasreceived various awards from Italy highlighting his
volunteerism, which include being on the board of VillaMarconi, affiliate with St. Anthony’s Church, and donatingthe stones for the fragrant gardens in Nepean’s city hall.
“We are all richer for volunteerism,” said Nepeanmayor Mary Pitt, offering a heartfelt thanks for the volun-teer’s time and effort. The awards were presented by Pittand members of her council to 24 Nepean citizens who havedemonstrated an exceptional devotion to their community.
It is proper that Mion was given this recognition inthe community he has had such a hand in shaping. “Youdo what you do without thinking of medals,” he explained.He truly is man of humility, who inspires others to followhis footsteps and lend a helping hand.
Luigi Mion proudly displayinghis medal with Ada Mion.
Padre Paolo
Information on how to make a donation can be madeby calling the Saunders-Matthey Foundation at (613) 592-6164. Donations to CHEO would also be welcome, pleasecall 737-2780 for further information.
Gino Buffone, Dini Petty andItalo Tiezzi supporting CHEO.
PHOTO: ANGELO FILOSO
PHOTO: WALTER CIBISCHINO
I L P O S T I N O December 2000Page 6
I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
During her time as a volunteer with St.Anthony’sLadies Aid, Ms. Jennie Prosperine coined her-self a motto: “You never know until you try.”
From start to finish, her story is one where trying has ledto success, not only for herself but everyone she helps.
With each fond memory that passes through her lips,Jennie Prosperine speaks of helping others, fulfillmentand change in the Italian-Canadian community. At firstglance it may be hard to see, but this diminutive womanhas a large heart. Her eyes glitter and her smile expandsas she speaks ofPreston Street and allher wonderfulmemories. No oneelse could paint abetter picture of thespirit of the Villagethan her. She is awoman who has de-voted her life to vol-unteering and thecommunity.
“To me volun-teering means thecontribution of onestime and effort to helpout wherever assist-ance is needed.” saysMs. Prosperine.“Whether you give ofyour time workingwith people, helpingto raise funds, work-ing in a clerical capac-ity, or serving at fundraising dinner, volun-teers as a group areindispensable andachieve incredible re-sults.”
She attributes herurge to volunteer toher parents and theneighbourhood inwhich she wasraised. Ms. Pros-perine grew up in the1920s and 1930shere in Ottawa, atime when making aliving was tough, espe-cially for new immigrants. She graduated fromImmaculata High School, and after being in the civil serv-ice for 12 years, she married Louis Prosperine in 1950and started her own business.
Her entrepreneurial spirit strong, Ms. Prosperine con-verted a property on the corner of Norman and Prestonthat her parents owned into a baby and ladies wear shopcalled the Jen-Lou Shoppe, named after the two propri-etors. “To this day, some of my old customers still callme Jen-Lou when they meet me.” Ms. Prosperine re-members fondly and notes that today her shop is thehome of La Roma Restaurant.
In the five years that she ran the Jen-Lou Shoppeshe recalls that some of her Italian customers wouldcome to the store and ask about certain properties theyhad seen for sale. “These were warm and friendly im-migrants who, of course, did not know the English lan-guage,” describes Ms. Prosperine, “ Fortunately, becauseI knew Italian, I was pleased to assist them and wouldtelephone the real estate office to inquire about the prop-erties that were for sale.”
This happened so many times that Ms. Prosperinefound her interest was shifting to real estate and in 1955she became an agent. Two years later she got her bro-kers license and opened her own office in what wasonce her shop. Her years as a real estate broker weresatisfying and rewarding and within three weeks of herstart, she sold a house and settled her first mortgage “I
just took the bull by the horns and I arranged it,” she chuckles.For health reasons Ms. Prosperine decided to retire in 1970
but she still remained close to the community. With some en-couragement from her sister Theresa, she joined St. Anthony’sLadies Aid and has not stopped volunteering since.
St. Anthony’s Ladies Aid holds fundraising events all yearwhose proceeds help St. Anthony’s church, the community, thefood bank, Villa Marconi, Boy Scouts and many others. Shespeaks with pride about the women involved with the LadiesAid and their successes. In the 1950s and 60s the women of
the Ladies Aid heldbingo for ten years onSaturday nights to payoff the mortgage on anew hall and Ms.Prosperine was instru-mental in getting 300beautiful chairs do-nated to the church.
“I have enjoyed allmy years as a memberof this dedicated andhard working organiza-tion and was honouredto have been votedpresident for aboutseven years,” she says.
Soon after, Ms.Prosperine was alsoinvited to join the Par-ish Council whichholds two very impor-tant events: afundraising dinner heldon the first Saturday inFebruary and proces-sion on St.Anthony’sfeast day in June. “Dur-ing my time on the Par-ish Council, one of thegreatest successes I amproud of is the launch-ing of the pasta lunchand suppers which wassupported by the LadiesAid during St.Anthony’sfeast,” she admits, “Thisnow has become a tra-dition.”
As if that were notenough, Ms. Prosperineis also associated with
the Ladies Auxiliary of St. Patrick’s Home. This organizationhelps and visits the residents, holds annual tea and coffee par-ties and sells shamrocks in march for St. Patrick’s feast. “It is soheartwarming to have this kind of rapport, support and coop-eration for one another. The ties are deep between the twoorganizations,” she says.
Her involvement and contact with the community has notgone unnoticed as she was asked to sit on a committee duringthe creation of Villa Marconi. Ms. Prosperine’s view that an Ital-ian home for the aged was long overdue prompted her to ac-cept positions on both the Social Committee and Seniors Com-mittee for the home. Here her motto was put to good use. “Idid not think I could help them but when you try…,” she sayswith a smile. “We got volunteers from the Ladies Aid to do any-thing that was necessary.”
About 8 years ago Ms. Prosperine was approached by Prof.Ian Mackay of the University of Ottawa who was doing an inter-national study on how Italians learn a second language. Shewas asked to find 275 people who were born in Italy and werewilling to be interviewed at the church and though it took manyphone calls and follow-ups, Ms. Prosperine accepted the chal-lenge and it was financially rewarding for the church. “Subse-quent years community members have helped in this and ithas benefited the whole community as well as help scientistsunderstand the second language learning. I would like to takethis opportunity to personally thank all those wonderful peoplewho participated and made the study the success that it was.”
“You never know until you try”
Interview / Intervista
by Laura D’Amelio
Jennie Prosperine
ConversationQ: What can you tell me about your family?A: My father, Domenic Nasso, arrived in Ottawa in 1903from Calabria at the age of 17 while my mother arrived1913. They met in Ottawa and were married in St.Anthony’s Church in 1914. My mother was a devoted andcaring mother, typical of many Italian mothers. She waskind and generous, and was often asked to help in birthingin the community. Based on St. Anthony’s archives, myfather was a founder of St. Anthony’s church. My familyand I are very proud of this accomplishment. My father alsoemployed many people that I grew up with – a lot ofyoung men in the 1930s, and I remember who they are tothis day. I saw the support and kindness towards thecommunity in my own family.Q: What does the word “community”mean to you?A: It means a very tight knit family-oriented lifestyle and alife which revolved around the church and school. It meanshappiness and security surrounded by family and friends.Some of my happiest memories go back to the days and thetimes when I grew up in the Italian Community. Familieswere large at that time, and that meant more friends withwhom to make and share wonderful memories. Neighbourswere very close and looked out for one another. It was atrue village atmosphere. The bond continues today withthe annual meeting of the Village Sportsman Club. TheLadies Aid echoes that same village atmosphere because ofits membership.Q: What important changes have you seenin the community?A: Seeing the new immigrants established in ourcommunity, raising and educating their families andcontributing to the growth of the community as well as thechurch. They arrived in this country to improve their lot inlife and they succeeded. Their starter homes were olderhomes and small but with their ability to work hard, savetheir money and stretch a dollar they managed to build orbuy larger and more comfortable homes for their familiesto enjoy. Many of these new Italian immigrants went on tobecome very successful contractors and businessmen andwe as a community are very proud of this fact. We are alsonow seeing their children being educated and playing avery important role in our society as dentists, teachers,doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs and much more. —LD
Then & now: Jennie Prosperine withfamily (above) and friends (below).
Unfortunately Ms. Prosperine had to take a break fromall her work to receive triple by pass surgery. She is get-ting back to her active self and recently has gone back into these successful organizations to continue and help asshe has in the past.
“It’s a great satisfaction for me having made a differ-ence in the community and helping to improve the livesof others like when we were selling the properties youwere helping the Italian people to find homes. It seems tourge you on, you want to help people and do your best tohelp the community,” she says glowingly.
Her contributions are many and her dedication is alead worth following. For youth, Ms. Prosperine sends thismessage: “Get a good education to realize your dreams.Do not be afraid to volunteer as that is a wonderful way ofnetworking, of meeting interesting people, of learningsomething new, and a means to personal growth and self-satisfaction.”
Above all, of course, do not be afraid because younever know until you try.
I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
I L P O S T I N ODecember 2000 Page 7
by Petra CiobanuHands-on manipulation for healing is probably
older than any other healing tradition. The oldestwritten records of massage go back three thousandyears to China, but of course it is much older thanthat. Touch and the laying on of hands are humantendencies that are in our genetic makeup. Physi-cians and healers of all forms and from all cultureshave used hands-on manipulation throughout historyas an integral part of health care practice.
While there are a wide variety of forms of mas-sage therapy and bodywork, all with their own theo-retical or philosophical perspectives, there are certainbasic principles they all tend to hold in common.
Perhaps the most basic principle in this field is thatimproved circulation is beneficial for virtually all healthconditions. Tension in the muscles and other soft tis-sues can impair circulation, resulting in a deficientsupply of nutrients and inadequate removal of wastesor toxins from the tissues of the body. This in turncan lead to illness, structural and functional problemsor slower healing. Recognition of the importance ofblood circulation is implicit in all forms of massageand bodywork.
The lymph system is almost as extensive as that ofthe blood. The circulation of lymphatic fluid plays akey role in ridding the body of wastes, toxins, andpathogens. The lymph system also benefits from mas-sage, particularly in conditions where lymphatic flowis impaired by injury or surgery (e.g., in post-mastec-tomy women).
Chronic tension or trauma to the soft tissues ofthe body can result in the buildup of toxic byproductsof normal metabolism. Hands-on techniques helpmove the toxins through the body’s normal pathwaysof release and elimination.
Chronic muscular greater relaxation, which has im-portant physiological and psychological benefits.Structure and function are interdependent. The mus-
Hands-on healingculoskeletal structure of the body affects function and func-tion affects structure, both of which can be adversely al-tered by stress or trauma. Massage therapy and bodyworkcan help restore healthy structure and function, therebyallowing better circulation, greater ease of movement,wider range tension as a result of high stress lifestyles,trauma, or injury can accumulate and impair the body’sstructure and function. Psychological well-being is alsoaffected. Release of tension allows of movement, moreflexibility, and the release of chronic patterns of tension.
All bodily systems are affected by better circulation andmore harmonious functioning of the soft tissue and mus-culature. Internal organ systems as well as the nervoussystem, the immune system, and other systems can ben-efit. There can be an overall improvement in the quality oflife and physical health.
Mind and body have a reciprocal relationship. Soma(body) affects psyche (mind) and vice versa. Hence therecan be somatopsychic effects, in which the conditions ofthe body affect the mind and emotions, and there can bepsychosomatic effect in which psychological or emotionalconditions affect the body. Change in one domain maycause change in the other. A habit or fixed pattern in onemay also impede change in the other and require specialattention. Often psychotherapy and massage or bodyworkcomplement each other.
Stress is increasingly believed to induce illness, andperhaps 80 to 90 percent of all disease is stress related.Massage therapy is an effective non-drug method for re-ducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Many modalities in this tradition work with the flow ofenergy through the body as a means to promote healing.Energy can be directed or encouraged to move throughand around the body in such ways as to have impact onthe physical structure and function of the body as well ason emotional well-being.
Petra Ciobanu is a orthotechnician and kinesitherapistat the Britannia Physiotherapy Clinic
Health / Salute3RD ANNUAL PORCH
DECORATING CONTESTIn the spirit of the holidays and giving, Willow St.
and the surrounding neighbourhood will be holdingtheir third annual Porch Decorating Contest in theupcoming week. An event growing in popularity, thecontest has the Willow Street Angels, the local chil-dren, judging local porches and businesses on theirholiday decorations. It takes place on December 16 at6:00 p.m. at 83 Willow St., and everyone is invited totake part.
Last year approximately 100 people participated,about 70 were children, and the event was a success.Both the children and decorators do much for the spiritof the community by decorating their homes or dis-tributing recycled decorations for others to use. Thecommunity socialized, refreshments were served andprizes were awarded.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this eventis the volunteers who put in time and energy to helpbuild a giving and friendly community. Organizing isdone by Angela Ierullo, Lianne Slaughter, residents ofWillow St. and the surrounding community. They alsoserve refreshments to participants and make sure thechildren are safe with adult accompaniment.
At this year’s contest, people can expect to see lo-cal councilors and officials giving their support andhaving a good time. Ms. Ierullo notes that this is a per-fect time say thank you and best of luck to retiringcouncilor Diane Holmes, as well as pay tribute to oth-ers who have continuously supported the community.She expects a great turnout and is enthusiastic aboutthe event.
However, people are still needed to help organize,donate prizes for both the children and winners in-volved in this contest, or recycle last year’s decora-tions for someone else to use. Already many havecome forward such as community businesses, peo-ple and elected officials, and their help is appreciated.During the holidays there is nothing more fitting thanhelping your neighbours and your generosity this sea-son can help the Angels continue their events. To getinvolved or for more information, call Angela Ierullo at230-4158.
I volontari: gli amici di Villa MarconiCommunity / Communità
Gentile signor direttore,Quando Dio creò il mondo non dimenticò niente.
Creò il sole, l’acqua, il bene e la perfezione. Fra tutte
queste belle cose creò anche l’amicizia, un
sentimento basato sull’onesta, sulla sincerità e sul
rispetto reciproco fra due o più persone, che insieme
possono affrontare impegni, disagi e responsabilità,
pur di raggiungere un ideale prefisso. È il sentimento
che ha animato i volontari di Villa Marconi, e Le sarei
grato, signor direttore, se mi permettesse di dire
pubblicamente due parole in loro onore.Alcuni conquistano la gloria con audaci imprese,
altri con scoperte scientifiche e tecnologiche, altri
ancora nel campo letterario, della medicina, della
musica, e in quello umanitario. In quest’ultimo
campo, entrano i valori conquistati con sacrifici,
dedizione e amore verso una certa causa, I volontari di
Villa Marconi sono un valido esempio di spirito
d’abnegazione, di sacrifici e ferrea volontà di riuscire.
I volontari sono i veri amici della Villa. Essi sono una
forza che molti non conoscono. Indubbiamente sono
l’anima, il centro motore di Villa Marconi. Il volontariato è
una missione che si affronta con spontanea volontà, libertà
e passione, e non per vanità o per interesse. È qualcosa
che sentiamo dentro di noi, quando una certa causa fa
nascere in noi il desiderio di coinvolgerci, di stendere la
mano a una persona che ha bisogno d’aiuto.Elencare i nomi dei volontari non è necessario. Essi
sono quella schiera che inizia col consiglio d’
amministrazione, con i comitati, gli addetti alla cucina o al
giardinaggio. Sono le signore che confortano i malati della
casa di cura, gli organizzatori dell’età dell’oro. Sono,
infine, quelli che svolgono le più comuni mansioni.
Vorrei quindi ringraziarli tutti, uno per uno, nella
speranza che continueranno la loro missione di
volontariato, che potranno contribuire con ancora più
vigore al successo di Villa Marconi, questa splendida
istituzione, unica nella nostra comunità.Il futuro della Villa dipende da noi italo-canadesi
nell’insieme, in quanto gruppo. Se perseveriamo,
come finora hanno fatto i volontari, avremo costruito
qualcosa che resisterà al tempo, e sarà ammirata con
orgoglio dai figli dei nostri figli e dai loro posteri.Lunga vita, dunque, a Villa Marconi e lunga vita ai
volontari. Che il nuovo millennio sia loro prospero e felice.—Alfredo Maiolo
Guests celebrating the effortsof volunteers at Villa Marconi.
PHOTOS: ANGELO FILOSO
I L P O S T I N O December 2000Page 8
I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
by Fiona StoryThe art of femininity has arrived in Canada
courtesy of Italian jewelry designer AnnamariaCammilli.
Famous for her delicate designs of leaves andflowers, the world-renowned artisan launched herlines, Hermosa and Oro in Fiore in November throughBirks Jewellers at the Rideau Center.
Store manager, Kathy Lamont, is honoured thatOttawa has been chosen to exclusively introduceCammilli to the Canadian market. “This is the first timeanyone in Canada has ever seen the product and usu-ally it is the big cities like Montreal, Toronto or Vancou-ver, who get chosen for launches. So this is really ex-citing,” says Lamont.
Cammilli, though new to Canada, is renownedthroughout the world. Her company, AnnamariaCammilli Gioielli Srl., has markets in the United States,Europe, Malaysia and Russia.
Cammilli started out as an artist working withmetals before turning to jewelry. She is now recog-nized for her unique creations and original designs.Each piece is exclusively done by hand by Cammilli-trained workers and is hand-signed by the designerherself.
“Each petal is formed by hand and then in-serted by hand. That’s why pieces are never the same,”says Ileana Daly, Cammilli’s representative in America,who was at Birks to launch the line at the beginningof November. All this manual work including the goldfinishing, Daly continues, is particularly advantageousbecause, unlike machine finishes, it will not wearaway.
Cammilli, who experiments with two-tonegolds, is also an avid worker with pearls. Unlike otherdesigners, she does not choose pearls to fit her pieces
Italian jewelry comes to Ottawabut rather creates pieces around the extraordinarypearls she finds.
There are two themes in Cammilli’s mer-chandise. One is nature, mirrored in her Oro in Fiorecollection. In this line, beautiful diamonds often off-set exquisitely shaped flowers and leaves of pink,yellow or white 18k gold.
The second, Hermosa, tends to be a morecontemporary collection, revolving around swirls andis actually a spin-off of Oro in Fiore. Cammilli usedswirling lines to compliment her flower and leaf mo-tifs and as the swirls became quite popular, she embarkedon the idea that they were beautiful in themselves.
Daly emphasizes that Cammilli maintains a certainromanticism in her creations. “You can either like or dis-like her work but you can’t say that it’s not romantic, thatit’s not feminine or flowing. It’s artistic, there’s grace ineverything.”
Daly also notes that all Cammilli’s work is extremelyversatile. “Every single theme goes from every day wear,to a little dressier, to something you can really wear to agala.”
Annamaria Cammilli comes from a long Italian tra-dition of gold workers; known as “old world craftsmen” inthe jewelry world. Not only does Italy produce its own gold,making it readily available, but knows how to work it.
“They have a very old-fashioned way of working thegold,” says Daly. “They know what they can do and whatthey can not with gold or how far they can go. There aremany generations of passing down the technique whichis unequaled anywhere else in the world.”
Commonly, Italian factories which work in gold havethree generations of families in their employment. “It’s notlike an employee comes in off the street and has to learnthe technique out of the blue. These are people who havebasically been born into the industry,” emphasizes Daly.
Community / Comunità
Cammilli’s immediate family seems to be fol-lowing that trend as well. Her son, Riccardo Renai,directs her business and her daughter is learning thetrade from her mother so the Cammilli process ofdesign, production and supervision can be carriedon.
Another addition to the Cammilli jewelry fam-ily are gem-adorned sculptures which were intro-duced last summer. Formed from silver 925 and givena special finish, they can be anything from jewelryboxes to vases and are all made, from start to finish,by Cammilli alone.
There are no plans to open a Cammilli com-pany office in Canada in order to keep the operationsmall-scale. All Canadian business with Cammilli’scompany will be conducted through her North Ameri-can bureau in Miami.
Although much of the collection has returnedwith Daly to the United States, some of the jewelryand many sculptures remain on display in Birks. Allother pieces are available to customers through a cata-logue.
If the line is successful in Ottawa, Lamont be-lieves that Cammilli could be introduced into otherCanadian Birks stores as early as next year.
Ileana Daly and store manager KathyLamont at Birks in the Rideau Centre.
Fisher Heights Community Health CentreThis Community Health Centre is a leading regional resourcein resident-centred long Term, respite, and convalescent care.
We thank all candidates for applying;however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
The Health Centre is an Agency which provides long term and communityprograms for seniors with particular emphasis on providing for the needs of the
culturally sensitiveand those requiring dementia care. We are currently acceptingresumes from experienced individuals to work in the following positions:
Registered Nurse (casual) $20.75/hourResident Assistant (casual and RPT) $15.90/hr
(Performs duties similar to Health Care Aide or PSW)Food and Nutrition Aide (casual) $15.85/hr
Director of Care/Administrator (Casual) $25.00
Until January 7, 2001Three centuries of Italian printsfrom a private collectionNational Gallery of Canada395 Sussex Drive, 990-1985December 5, Tuesday 6pmGala Dinner for Canadian-ItalianNational AwardsMuseum of Civilization100 Laurier, Hull. 776-7000$250.00 per personFor information: 727-6201
December 7-10The NutcrackerNational Arts CentreFor tickets call 755-1111December 10Sunday, 6pmChristmas Around the WorldVilla Marconi, 1026 Baseline RdDecember 14,Thursday, 6pm3rd Annual Porch Decorating ContestWillow Street Angels, 83 Willow St.
December 31,Sunday 6pm - 2amNew Year’s Eve Gala DinnerGarbaldi Community Hall$60.00 per person, Music: Duo OZVilla Marconi, Baseline Road, 727-6201
December 31,Sunday 8pm - 2amNew Year’s BashCaboto Cultural Hall$20.00 per person, Music: DJVilla Marconi, Baseline Road, 727-6201
January 14, SaturdayFundraiserVilla Marconi, Baseline Road, 727-6201
February 17, SaturdayItalian Venetian CarnivalVilla Marconi, Baseline Road, 727-6201
I L P O S T I N O November 2000Page 10
I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
The undersigned agrees to pay the amount mentioned in said agreement and according to the agreed terms.Date: ____________________ Signature: ___________________________Customer name: ________________________________________________________Address & Phone Number: _______________________________________________
Service GuaranteedCasanetics Inc., 22 Caesar Avenue, Nepean K2G 3G1, 613-235-8732
Propose to perform all labours to complete all the work described below:~For the winter season, from November 1, 2000 to April 1, 2001 to ploweach snow fall that has an accumulation of more than two inches (5 centimeters).~Any snow fall that is less than two inches is the responsibility of the homeowners.~This work will be done as fast as possible on a regular basis.~Return visits for plowed in driveways will be done as promptly as possible.
The payment can be made in four post dated cheques of $75.00 each date forDecember 1, 2000, January 1, 2000, February 1 2001, and March 1, 2001.
All cheques are made payable to Casanetics Inc.
The CostThe CostThe CostThe CostThe Cost for the Season after December 1for the Season after December 1for the Season after December 1for the Season after December 1for the Season after December 1ststststst is $300.00 is $300.00 is $300.00 is $300.00 is $300.00
Upon acceptance please send bottom portion of contract along with the post dated cheques made out to Casanetics Inc. 22 Caesar Avenue, Nepean K2G 3H1
Villa Marconi • New Years Eve Celebration • Villa Marconi • Veglione di Capodanno • Villa Marconi
Villa Marconi • New Years Eve Celebration • Villa Marconi • Veglione di Capodanno • Villa Marconi
I L P O S T I N O December 2000Page 12
I L P O S T I N O • O T T A W A , O N T A R I O , C A N A D A
Natale 2000 / Christmas 2000Ci avviciniamo a
grandi passi altermine dell’anno
che ha segnato l’inizio diun nuovo millennio.Molti avvenimenti nelcorso di quest’anno sonodi specifico interesse pergli italiani che vivonoall’estero. Ricordoi n n a n z i t u t t ol’approvazione dellemodifiche costituzionali,che consentirannol’esercizio del diritto divoto all’estero, e le varietappe che hannopreparato la PrimaConferenza degli Italianinel Mondo, che si terra’a Roma dall’11 al 15dicembre prossimo. E’un evento questo diparticolare importanza, acui parteciperannorappresentanti di tutti isettori coinvolti, in unmodo o nell’altro, nellavita dei nostriconnazionali che vivonofuori dall’Italia, e che e’volto a definire le migliori strategie per il futuro nell’interesse di tutti gli italiani e ditutti coloro che vivono ancora la loro italianita’, pur essendo cittadini di un altro Stato.
Per quanto riguarda il Canada, ritengo doveroso ricordare ancora una volta che gliitaliani hanno apportato a questo grande e ospitale Paese un contributo importante diumanità, di laboriosità, di immaginazione, di cultura e si sono integrati con successonella società canadese, sapendo cogliere appieno le potenzialità e la originalità dellasua essenza multiculturale. In questo contesto, ritengo importante mantenere i legamicon l’Italia che molti di voi hanno lasciato e coltivarne l’immagine presso i giovaniche non l’hanno mai conosciuta, valorizzandone lo sviluppo ed il progresso che hannopermesso al nostro paese di affermarsi come attore principale sulla scena politica,economica e sociale europea ed internazionale. Per non disperdere tale inestimabilepatrimonio dobbiamo tutt’insieme risvegliare l’interesse e la coscienza dei tanti“italiani” di seconda o terza generazione che, senza perdere la loro identità di cittadinia pieno titolo del paese nel quale i loro genitori sono emigrati, possono contribuireanzi a rafforzarla nella riscoperta delle opportunità e dei valori offerti dalla patria deiloro avi.
Le fonti di informazione svolgono nell’era della globalizzazione e della societa’dell’informazione un ruolo divulgativo essenziale nel diffondere un’immagine realedell’Italia, che ne evidenzi tutti gli aspetti e ne sottolinei i forti segnali di sviluppo e dicrescita. L’invito pertanto e’ che essi contribuiscano sempre di piu’ a recepire eritrasmettere agli utenti notizie puntuali ed aggiornate sulla societa’ italiana.
Concludo questo mio breve messaggio augurando ai lettori ed alle loro famiglieun sereno natale, con il sincero auspicio che il nuovo anno sia sinonimo di ulterioresuccesso, di serenità e di benessere in Canada, nel ricordo vivo delle proprie radici.
Roberto NigidoL’Ambasciatore D’Italia
As the year 2000draws to aclose, one can justi-
fiably ask where the Millen-nium optimism has gone?There are still so manywars, still so much povertyand despair. Can thingsever get better?
Although, there iscause for discouragement,there are many, manymore reasons to be hope-ful. A good number ofChristians the world overstarted this “Jubilee” yearby meditating upon a verybeautiful text in the Gospelof Luke, where Jesus says:“The Spirit of the Lord isupon me, because he hasanointed me to bring goodnews to the poor. He hassent me to proclaim re-lease to the captives andrecovery of sight to theblind, to let the oppressedgo free, to proclaim theyear of the Lord’s favor.”(4:18-19)
This Spirit of Jubilee transformed many people, urging them to break down barri-ers and set captives free. One important initiative was to ask the industrialized na-tions to forgive the debt of the world’s poorest countries. There are many hopefulsigns, including actual debt reduction by certain countries. Our Canadian FinanceMinister, Paul Martin, brought this proposal before the international community, itwas rejected, but the momentum in favour of debt elimination continues and, hope-fully, Canada will try again to bring this issue to the forefront.
Another highlight of this year was World Youth Day, an international youth gather-ing called by Pope John Paul II. It was held in Rome last August and I was able toattend with about 90 young people from Ottawa.
This meeting was extraordinary in the sense that it showed the enthusiasm andenergy which the Gospel can produce in young people and, when there are twomillion young people present, that’s a lot of enthusiasm and energy. Needless to say,it was an unforgettable experience for all of the participants, a testimony to perfectjoy and to a faith which can move mountains.
There have been many other such initiatives this year, in favour of the environ-ment, Canada’s Native communities, the quest for the equality of women and I couldgo on and on. People involved in these projects were nourished by God’s Word and,despite some setbacks, they continue their work and I applaud them.
This Jubilee year was also an important year for the proclamation of Christ’s GoodNews to humanity, for if Christ tells us to hope and to strive for a better world, hismessage in itself is also very Good News. It brings comfort, gives strength and leadsto eternal life. May Christ bless you abundantly throughout this Christmas season.
The Most Reverend Marcel GervaisArchbishop Of Ottawa
La nostra vita spirituale può essereraffigurata dalle quattro stagioni.Inverno: Tempo di riposo e di
aspettativa. Primavera: Vita nuova. Es-tate: Tempo di crescita. Autunno:Tempo del raccolto.
Inverno: L’inverno ci fa pensareall’Antico Testamento, tempo disperanza, di attesa del Messia. Inquesta fase della storia dell’umanità lavita spirituale era come morta. Era iltempo della speranza e dell’attesa delcompiersi dell’antica promessa.
Primavera: La venuta del Salvatoresi può paragonare alla primavera. Inprimavera la natura prende vita, tuttocresce e fiorisce al tepore del sole edella pioggia rigeneratrice. Gesù èvenuto come sole per l’umanità aportare gioia, vita e speranza, è ilcompimento dell’antica promessa.
Estate: Durante l’estate la natura èrigogliosa, stimolata dagli elementi che
ne favoriscono la crescita. Gli elementiche aiutano ad arricchire la nostra vitaspirituale sono i sacramenti, Battesimo,Comunione, Penitenza, Cresima,Matrimonio, Sacerdozio, Unzione degliammalati: con questi la nostra fedediventa più forte.
Autunno: Tempo della mietitura e delraccolto. Al termine di una vista vissutanell’amore di Dio e del prossimo,possiamo prepararci con fiducia e senzaalcun timore ad incontrare quel Dio checi ha tanto amati e che si vuole felici pertutta l’eternità.
Oh quale maestra meravigliosa è maila natura!
Buon Natale a tutti!Padre Marcello Brodeur, o.s.m.
Padre Paul McKeown, o.s.m. ParrocoLa Comunità dei Servi
di Maria e il PersonaleLaico e Religioso:
Parrocchia Sant’Antonio
What a beautiful teacher we havein Nature. The four seasons arean example of life. Spring: new
life. Summer: time of growth. Fall: time ofharvest. Winter: time of rest and hope. Ourspiritual life is like the four seasons.
Winter: Winter makes us think of thepeople of the Old Testament. It’s a time ofhope -the coming of the Messiah... Spir-itual life was similar to winter time. Sin de-stroyed the joyful spiritual life... it was win-ter time...a time of expectation, of prom-ise, of hope.
Spring: The birth of Jesus brought newlife... In spring, the earth gives life... every-thing is blooming... Sunshine, rain, goodweather brings hope. The birth of Jesusbrings back a smile on every one’s face.There is hope in life again.
Summer: During summer days andnights plants are growing...During the sum-mer of our spiritual life, with the help ofsacraments: Baptism, Eucharist, Penance,
Confirmation, Marriage, Holy Orders andthe Anointing of the Sick, we grow inour spiritual life. Our faith is stronger...How beautiful a teacher nature is..
Fall: Then comes the time of the har-vest. After a good Christian life — lifeconsecrated to loving God and ourneighbours, — we are close to ourgoal... Our soul thirsts for the presenceof God... and death is no more a scarything, but rather a beautiful gatheringwith our Creator — with God our friend.
Oh, what a beautiful teacher can Na-ture be! We are born in Christ, grow inhis presence, enjoy his friendship andfinally we can enjoy his presence forever.
Merry Christmas to everybody!Fr. Marcel Brodeur, o.s.m.
Fr. Paul McKeown, o.s.m. PastorThe Community of the
