The beginning of the Tercentenary took place in Genhout (Netherlands), on May 2, 2015.
The celebration was attended by the Daughters of Wisdom and the Montfortian Missionaries from Belgium, Germany and Holland. Unfortunately there were no Brothers of Saint Gabriel.
The beginning of the Tercentenary coincides with the opening of the Art Center in Genhout. An exposition of the Montfortian heritage was arranged in the church.
The Montfortian fathers - Frans Fabry from Belgium, Herman-Josef Junemann from Germany and Peter Denneman from Holland – participated in the Holy Eucharist. They have concelebrated the Eucharist with Father John van Oss, the Montfortian parish priest in charge of Genhout parish. The celebration was enlivened by the talented organist, Hub Kleijkers.
The first reading, a translation of the 91st canticle of Montfort by Jo van Osch, was read by Jan Lathouwers.
5- I envy no one 6- Since God my father
His wealth or good fortune Cares for me infinitely,
And I strive only to be I let Him do everything
Like the poorest of heart. To take care of me.
Having nothing, etc. Having nothing, etc.
The chosen gospel was from St. Luke, 9: 12-17. In his homily, Father Peter invited the congregation to follow the footsteps of Montfort, who became an apostle, a preacher and defender of the disadvantaged. He invited the congregation to imitate Montfort and to “Become what you receive and receive what you’re given: the body of Christ”. He invited them to spread the Kingdom of God in the world.
After the Eucharist, people had the opportunity to enjoy the exposition on the Montfort heritage. The opening of Saint Hubert Art Center took place after the lunch followed by the launching of the new website: www.kunstcentrumgenhout.nl
No matter what will happen concerning the Montfortian presence in these three countries, the memory of Montfort is well kept in Genhout. It was a day of nice celebration.
-Marian Claeren
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