“Look how we are having fun tonight, And everything is just right” – these lyrics from the song “Born Lucian” perfectly encapsulate the joyous celebration of the enrollment of our newest Redemptorist Associate, Dr. Morella Joseph-Jn Baptiste. This significant event is not just a milestone for Dr. Morella, but a testament to the rich tapestry of cultural diversity and unity within our Redemptorist family.
Dr. Morella’s journey with the Redemptorist Partners in Mission group began under the guidance of Fr. John Olenick, CSsR, at our former Redemptorist parish in Vieux Fort, St. Lucia. For almost two years, she and other members dedicated themselves to studying the spirituality and mission of the Redemptorists, delving into the teachings of St. Alphonsus, Our Mother of Perpetual Help, and other Redemptorist saints. Despite the parish being returned to Diocesan care in July 2023, Dr. Morella remained steadfast, attending monthly gatherings via Zoom hosted by the Partners in Mission group of the St. Martin of Tours in Bethpage, New York, and providing leadership to the tutoring program which was developed with the goal of offering educational support, mentorship, and guidance to underprivileged children to empower them to overcome obstacles and achieve academic success. This tutoring program has even garnered attention from their Education Minister.
Taking advantage of her visit to New York, the Redemptorist Basilica Parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, graciously hosted Dr.
Morella’s enrollment ceremony during their Wednesday evening Novena Mass. This event was also a heartwarming reunion, marking the first time Dr. Morella saw her former pastor, Fr. John Olenick, CSsR, since his departure from St. Lucia. The ceremony was a heartfelt occasion, attended by approximately 20 of Dr. Morella’s family and friends from New York and Canada, and many more participating via live stream and social media from St. Lucia. Adding a personal touch, Dr. Morella beautifully sang “Power of Your Love” during the Novena portion of the Mass, highlighting the deep connection she shares with the Redemptorist community.
The Basilica Parish of OLPH, home to both Misión Compartida and Partners in Mission groups, also warmly welcomed Dr. Morella into the Redemptorist family. The active participation of these groups in the bi-lingual reception program after Mass demonstrated the vibrant cultural mix that enriches our community. Br Augustus Riviere, CSsR, led a brief welcome, followed by a show of solidarity and identity from the Brooklyn MC/PIM members under the guidance of Fr. Manny Rodríguez, CSsR. Fr. Robert Wojtek, CSsR, expressed gratitude for the contributions of the PIM and MC groups, emphasizing their integral role with the pastoral mission team. Fr. John Olenik, CSsR, introduced Dr. Morella, acknowledging her contributions to her parish in St. Lucia. Dr. Morella shared her journey, reflecting on what led her to become a Redemptorist Associate. Fr. Francis Gargani, CSsR, as co-facilitator of Baltimore Province PIM/MC, welcomed Dr. Morella into the Redemptorist Family, expressing gratitude for her dedication to the Redemptorist charism and spirituality in mission.
The ceremony reached its peak when Dr. Morella and her family and friends shared a piece of St. Lucian culture by singing “Born Lucian,” encouraging all to join in. The celebration concluded with the singing of the Salve Regina, led by Fr. Norman Bennett, CSsR, and a final blessing from Fr. John Olenik, CSsR.
The evening was a profound reminder of the unity and diversity within our Redemptorist Family, touched by the same charism yet expressed through different cultural lenses. This event underscored the blessings of the Holy Spirit in fostering our continued presence within the Redemptorist family.
Upon returning to St. Lucia, Dr. Morella continued the celebration, marking the end of the third year of their tutoring program. This event celebrated the dedication of tutors to the young people of Vieux Fort, with prayers, songs of praise, tokens of appreciation and reflections on their journey and accomplishments. The song “Born Lucian” was once again a highlight, bringing everyone together in a shared expression of cultural pride and unity.
As we reflect on these celebrations, we are reminded that “fond memories never fade.” The joyous moments shared, the cultural richness celebrated, and the unity of our diverse Redemptorist Family will continue to inspire and strengthen our mission.
Indeed, “everything is just right” when we come together as one family, embracing our differences and celebrating our shared commitment to the Redemptorist mission.
Lucy Burich McNamara
Lay Missionary of the Most Holy Redeemer
