December The Open Door - ministries.ssjg.org.au€¦ · the Pope’s Summer Palace at Castelo Gandolfo where it overlooks beautiful Lake Albano. This was the Pope’s summer retreat

December

2018The Open Door

Dandenong Community News

The Open Door - A centre for creative spiritualityA ministry of the Sisters of St John of God

We have taken one of our favourite Christmas Carols, ‘The 12 days of Christmas’, and tweaked it to bring some insight to the year we’ve had.

On the first day of Christmas The Open Door gave to meA Women’s Wisdom Retreat

On the second day of Christmas The Open Door gave to meTwo justice outreaches, Bob’s Place and McAuley

On the third day of Christmas The Open Door gave to meThree classical music listening workshops,

Guided Imagery & MusicOn the fourth day of Christmas The Open Door gave to me

Ellie’s Seasonal Meditation Retreat daysOn the fifth day of Christmas The Open Door gave to me

A new and improved car parkOn the sixth day of Christmas The Open Door gave to me

Trish’s Table workshops, sharing recipesOn the seventh day of Christmas The Open Door gave to me

A space to walk a Labyrinth, thanks to Cath ConnellyOn the eighth day of Christmas The Open Door gave to me

Eight helpers cooking for our Christmas in Julyfundraising and being merry

On the ninth day of Christmas The Open Door gave to meAn exciting art exhibition and book launch:

‘Pages tell the Story’On the tenth day of Christmas The Open Door gave to meTen card players at our 500 Club, standing room only

On the eleventh day of Christmas The Open Door gave to meA new team member, Maria

On the twelfth day of Christmas The Open Door gave to meTwelve months of workshops, making friends and enjoying

our creativity

Wishing you a very merry Christmas and a happy and fulfilling New Year

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In thisissue

Meet Carmel

House team

Core Group news

Jo’s journal

Art for the soul

Castelo Gandolfo

Baby arrivals

Taking Time

John of God’s story

Line dancing

Social outreach

Trish’s tales

2019 events

Looking back

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If you would prefer an electronic copy of our newsletter, instead of a paper copy, please call Trish or Jo on 03 9791 8664 or email [email protected]

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An interview with Carmel

Carmel has been coming to The Open Door for over 18 months now and is a dedicated weekly attendee.

She enjoys Tai Chi, Awareness Meditation, Art of Soul, Guided Imagery Meditation, Sing-a-long and Gospel workshops.

She plans to join in the 500 Club too, when she can spare some more time.

We sat down and asked Carmel a few questions.

What was the last picture you took with your phone?It was of Ricky, my cat.

What’s the most recent movie you’ve seen?A Star is Born.

What was the best holiday you ever had?I loved France and Lisieux in June this year, and the boat trip down the River Seine.

What would be a perfect afternoon for you?Going to the zoo – I love it and I’m a member of Zoos Victoria. I love the Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary too.

What’s your favorite dish to cook or to eat?I love rice in the oven.

What type of music do you like to listen to?All types, from classical to rock. It depends on my mood. If I’m in a dancing mood, rock. If I’m in a relaxing mood, classical.

Do you prefer the mountains or the beach?Mountains.

What do you like about coming to The Open Door?I love people. They are nice and friendly and I’m learning how to paint and relax, but it is mostly the people.

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by Jan McCaffrey

From left to right: Columba, Jo, John, Trish and Maria, the newest member of the team.

... while others reflect on what it is to be part of the Core Group

On reflecting on the Core Group, I ask myself what is it to be ‘core’?Google provides definitions such as: ‘the tough central part of various fruits, containing the seeds’; or ‘the part of something that is central to its existence or character’; or similar words such as ‘central, key, basic, fundamental, elemental, principal, primary, main, chief, crucial, vital, essential’.

The Core Group as a whole is central to the existence and character of The Open Door supporting and advising the house team to ensure that the core values, that word again, of The Open Door are not only envisaged but also put into action through creativity, spirituality and hospitality.

Each member of the Core Group sees of importance her own individual creative and

A new House Team...

spiritual development so as to be better able to understand, empathise with and support the core values of The Open Door in line with the values of the Sisters of St John of God and their founder.

While members of the Core Group stem from various walks of life and backgrounds there is a commonality of passion and commitment to The Open Door, its goals and values.

Belonging to the Core Group is far more than providing advice but also being committed to both personal, creative and spiritual development, to the ongoing development of The Open Door and to the growth and development of the individuals and the community it serves.

May the Core Group continue to be vital to the vision and mission of The Open Door now and into the future.


Art for the soulBy Patricia Girvasi

The Open Door art group is great.When I first attended the art group I didn’t know what to expect. I came here with an open mind expecting just another art group but it’s more. I like the spiritual side of it as well as the practical. This art group means that I can practise my art as well as my spiritual life. It’s a way of letting yourself go for two hours and seeing what develops.I have always loved doing art and the theory that we are learning at the moment brings a new perspective to it.It brings it all together for me.

Jo’s journalby Joanne Morrison

In May 2018, I was invited to be the Writer in Residence at the Dandenong Library. During this time I kept a daily diary and the following is an excerpt from my last day.It hasn’t been as hot in the Dandenong Library since my residency began. My cheeks haven’t glowed bright red from heat or nerves like they did on day one, and I hope I haven’t looked like a deer in headlights, as I must have on that first day.

My routine as Writer in Residence is down pat. Work through until 10.30am, stop for a stretch and a cuppa (the girls at the library café know me now) then back to it until my tummy rumbles around 1pm. Soup at the Public Corner Restaurant is quick and yum – I don’t want to waste time hanging about for food. Caira and Aaryan (the main characters in my novel) are finally getting closer and they’re going to find out what the fight was about, and I can’t wait to see how Beth’s

story will emerge…

My three months here have flown by and they’ve taken my insecurities with them. I’m caught up in the process of writing and I’m loving the experience. I wondered if I had the staying power for a novel after my short story addiction, but the ideas are coming and so too are the words. This residency has given me so much more than space and time to write. It has given me freedom to explore my creativity and permission to ‘play’. It has been liberating and inspiration is contagious. I can’t thank the Dandenong Library enough for offering me this residency. Their support has been instrumental in committing to this passion.

I’ll miss the toddlers’ singing voices during Language Playgroup, the enquiring staff who drop by to see how I’m going or to offer advice, and the wondering eyes of those who walk past. But I’ll keep them in store. My routine is about to change, but it will keep going. Caira’s story is developing and so is mine.

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In May this year I spent four weeks in Italy, and one special place was the Pope’s Summer Palace at Castelo Gandolfo where it overlooks beautiful Lake Albano. This was the Pope’s summer retreat for 400 years, though Pope Francis is not using it as it’s ‘too luxurious’! So he has opened the private apartments to the public.I visited early, about 9.30am and wandered through long beautiful corridors, the Pope’s portrait gallery, and viewed cabinets of religious regalia and uniforms of guards. On the way out a guide enquired how did I like my visit? I told him it was not as interesting as I believed it would be. I showed him a photo of my Great, Great Grandfather who was in Swiss Guard uniform and had married Anna Maria Barberini,

Retreating to a private tourBy Pat Stefanovic

of the noble Florentine family. Well, that did it!!A one hour private tour of private apartments, lots of historical info. No charge.I saw the little chapel, the bedroom with brass bed, huge dining rooms, reception rooms, tapestries, art, marble statues. Fabulous view from each window. Then the papal cars. Luxury models. A tour by open window bus around the Barberini Gardens, so peaceful and beautiful, marble statues, ponds, fountains, hedges, huge trees, all paid for by the Barberini family whose wealth increased hugely when Maffeo Barberini became Pope Urban VIII in 1623. His portrait hangs in the gallery (handsome chap). He squandered much of the Papal resources for his own ‘needs’. This was a really special day and well worth every minute of it.

News from the stork Congratulations

Doreen Muller, on the safe arrival of yourprecious granddaughter, Eva Solome, on 7 October.

Joan McDonald, on the safe arrival of yourprecious granddaughter, Elisha, on 17 October.


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Taking time for me

By Elaine

My journey continues when I drive into The Open Door carpark, instead of parking in the street. It has taken me a while to feel part of this community and more comfortable with my surroundings. Shaking hands was my greeting before and now hugs come easily. It’s all about breaking down the barriers that have been my security most of my life. I now trust myself more and it’s okay to talk about yourself. Sharing a story, or moments in my life, happy or sad, has reconnected me with people.

Always make new people feel welcome and greet them. I know how important that was for me. The more comfortable I feel, the more I want to share. We all have a story inside of us and as you grow older, what was important at one time is now different. You can give so much more, when you feel that you are accepted. The Open Door team has been very supportive and caring from the first day I arrived. Thank you.

All the meditations I attend have grounded me in many ways. Talking in front of a group was hard at first, now I have more confidence, it’s less confronting. Becoming more aware of nature and using your five senses. Actually taking time to look at the sky, new growth on a plant and embracing the seasons as they change.

I have used the Notice Board a few times. Sharing words that have meant something to me, may benefit someone else. You get used to people coming and going and when you form a friendship, whatever you have shared is never lost. I received a card from a person that no

longer attends The Open Door. It was after my Mum had died. That card is next to my Mum’s photograph and I read it quite often. It came at a time when I was struggling with grief and loss.

Being anxious, insecure and even scared is okay. It’s where I was at during that time in my life. I have moved on and very slowly, trying to let go of things that are not relevant. Living in the present moment, appreciating a roof over my head, food to eat and a bed to sleep in. Having enough to meet my needs. Realising I don’t really have much control over anything.

In this busy world, it’s important to just stop and do something for yourself. I try to meditate at home every day. I have purchased many of Tony O’Connor’s CDs and they provide a relaxing atmosphere to work in.

How did I end up at The Open Door?

Many reasons, but the main one is ‘it was meant to be!’ Thank you to all the men and women who attend The Open Door. With your kindness and understanding my journey is heading in a positive direction.

In this busy world, it’s important to just stop and do something for yourself.


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A community of Franciscan nuns moved from a sizeable building near the Alhambra in Granada on the Los Gomez Rise. John’s friends thought this would be a better place than the Fish Market for his hospital. In the Fish Market area, John had been seen by some as being of doubtful character: someone who had had psychiatric treatment and attracted to himself disreputable people. His friends felt that the hospital would probably do better in a more wholesome environment.

John saw the advantages and bought the new place with donations from his friends, and money he had collected: altogether, 400 ducats. (Just for comparison — Michelangelo was commissioned 3,000 ducats for the Sistine Chapel ceiling.) The willingness of his wealthy supporters to help him get established in the new house shows their confidence in the integrity of John’s work, and its future promise.

Before John got his second hospital working, some men in Granada had become interested in his work and in living a life completely dedicated to the poor. The first two men to join John — Anton Martin and Pedro Velasco — had a history. Pedro had, in a dispute over women and money, killed Anton’s brother. Anton’s chief reason for being in Granada was to get Pedro prosecuted.

Court procedures were delayed by the wealthy Velascoes in the hope that Anton would let the matter drop. But he didn’t. He ran out of money, and to support himself became a

protector of prostitutes there.

John was familiar with the Fish Market and the prostitutes in the area and that’s where he met Anton. Over time he begged Anton often to forgive the killer; Anton continually refused. One day in desperation John dropped to his knees on the street and implored Anton, by the passion of Christ, to forgive Pedro. Anton relented. As a result Pedro was released from prison. Both men made amends and both went to live with John. These two men were the initial brothers of John of God. Ref: John of God, Father of the Poor. Brian O’Donnell OH.

Sydney, 1991

I think if I was starting a new foundation for health care, I might easily pass over the pimp and the murderer for starters. But that is the difference between John Ciudade and me. And what is also different is that with John’s help these men came together and talked; they said they were sorry, asked forgiveness of each other; they ‘mended bridges’ and began again. They became John’s closest companions.

Lesson learned! Practice is more difficult. John of God, pray for me!

John of God story... part 16

Life lessonsRecognising the difference


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Another year is nearly over, it will soon be Christmas. By now some of you will be starting to think of all things Christmassy; shopping, lunch, gifts, friends and family.Me? I am a last minute person, I hope you all have a wonderful, happy time over the Christmas break, and spare a thought for those less fortunate than yourselves.

This year has been a lot of fun at Line Dancing, as usual, with the same ladies attending; Columba, Maree, Margaret O, Margaret C, Louisa, Poh, Helen, Marie, Shirley, Doreen, and Norma, who had a not so good year, but is finally back on the dance floor, and Cecile, who also was off the floor for a while, but glad to say she also is back dancing.

I would like to say Thankyou to ‘The Open Door’, for letting us have this class, and to the ladies that provide us with our lunch after a busy workout, and the special kind of friendships, that have been made.

Next February, we will be celebrating 10 years. I think we should do something ‘special’? Any thoughts?

Thankyou Ladies for another great year, have a wonderful Christmas, and come back for more next year. xx

By Margaret Murphy

LINE DANCING

Our social justice outreach for 2018/19Bob’s PlaceBob’s Place is a part of Launch Housing in Robinson Street, Dandenong.

Among other support they offer homeless people, is a public shower.

This is open for anyone who may need it.

We are continuing to collect new toiletry items for this service.

McAuley Community Services for WomenMcAuley is based in Footscray in a beautiful purpose — built facility and accommodates and supports women and children experiencing hardship as a result of family violence and homelessness.

Some of the workshops they offer are similar to what we run at The Open Door.

They aim to help these women find independence and stable housing through education and employment.

This is our major outreach for this financial year and we are well on the way raising money from our Christmas in July fundraiser, various raffles and our Art Exhibition and Book Launch.

Odyssey HouseThis not-for-profit organisation provides treatment and education to youth and families whose lives have been devastated by drug and alcohol addiction.

We act as brokers for goods for this worthy cause.


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Firstly our very keen Open Door artists arrived at 10am for a workshop that starts at 11.30am; the workmen arrived to start work on the new car park and John was tending his garden -— how beautiful it looks, full of spring colour… he is a true magician.

Jan called in to discuss a card making workshop she will be facilitating next week for our fundraising, bless her.

At 1.30pm the artists finished their beautiful paintings and headed up to the house for some soup and a catch up before the next workshop. News that Joan has become a grandmother for the first time was met with delighted oohs and ahs at the photos of her brand new baby granddaughter, Elisha.

The meditators arrived and another cuppa and

Trish’s tales

As I was driving home from work on Wednesday, I was suddenly covered in warm fuzzies. What a great day it was, I am truly blessed.

conversation was held afterwards; Sr Jo shared stories of her fabulous trip to the West and Pat S spoke about her travels plus lots of other chatting — and teasing by Bill because we didn’t stir his cappuccino the right way — mind you he still drank it, he always does.

In between these wonderful interludes we were getting the Christmas raffles ready, preparing the flyers for what’s coming up, counting jelly beans for the fundraising art day exhibition, preparing for Ellie’s retreat day on Sunday and organising writers for our upcoming newsletter.

In between all of the coming and goings we were answering the phone, sending and answering emails and other stuff they do in boring offices, but as I’ve said many times, The Open Door is no ordinary office. And this is why I am so lucky to be truly blessed.

Theological Discussion Group A discussion group exploring some of life’s deeper questions.

Bi-monthly (every second month) 7–8pmMonday evenings

Talks on SpiritualityWith guest speaker Jade Myconos, from McAuleyCommunity Services for Women.

5.30–6.30pmWednesday 20 March

Winter Gifts for the SoulA series of spiritual ecology workshops led by Pat Long to explore and celebrate the gifts of winter.

1.30–2.30pm11, 18 and 25 June

A trio of events coming your way in 2019


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About seven and a half years ago The Open Door came to our parish of St Macartan in Mornington, taking up residence in the former holiday home of the Sisters of St John of God.On that first day that these wonderful women opened their door to explain how we could come into this space and just ‘be’, I was so filled with desire to be a part of it!

Because we live very close to the Church, and to the house used by The Open Door, I was quickly able to fall in love with the team of Columba, Trish, Jo and Lucy, and very especially Kelly who was such a beautiful, welcoming presence filling the house with incense and soft music.

I feel very blessed to have been involved in the days of sharing in the meditations, lunches and retreats, and conversations about so many things that touch our hearts and enrich our souls.

My husband came occasionally to the singing group and shared in a few lunches too, and so we both really felt that we belonged.

So when the decision to close the house in Mornington was made, we were so very sad!

I will never be able to come to Dandenong as often as I would like to do, but I am so glad that when I do come the welcome is always wonderful — and all of you who share yourselves over lunches, retreats and creative things continue to make it feel like home. You are part of me! Maybe I am part of you!

Looking back at Mornington

By Julie

The Open DoorThe Open Door is a ministry of the Sisters of St John of God which seeks to develop a community where people feel safe to explore their own creativity and spiritual journeys.The centre is family friendly, offering affordable programs in a range of creative and spiritual themes including meditation, tai chi, creative writing, art, line dancing, book club, gospel workshops, guided walks and retreats.

More informationTel: Trish or Jo on 03 9791 8664Email: [email protected]: http://ministries.ssjg.org.auAddress: 110 Ann Street, Dandenong 3175

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December The Open Door - ministries.ssjg.org.au€¦ · the Pope’s Summer Palace at Castelo Gandolfo where it overlooks beautiful Lake Albano. This was the Pope’s summer retreat