Asia-Australia CO Regional Meeting Held In Manila

On Feb. 26 to 29, 2004, a group of 17 representatives from Australia, Malaysia and the Philippines got together in a lake island resort outside Metro Manila for the purpose of sharing and collaborating with each other re issues and concerns common to the practice of centering prayer in their respective countries. Madeline Soo, CO International Coordinator came all the way from Wisconsin, U.S.A., to attend the first ever Asia-Australia CO regional conference. During the meeting which was done in a retreat format (with regular periods of CP, silence and liturgy), Madeline explained to us the dynamic organism/organization that CO Ltd. is, as well as its vision/mission. She also emphasized the desire of the Board to "serve the increasing needs of our growing international communities." Madeline updated the group as well about the changes in the CP Introductory Workshop brochure as discussed in the last CO Annual Conference in San Diego.

The main facilitator in the Manila conference was Fr. Martin O'Loghlen, a missionary who's presently assigned in the Philippines but who was formerly in a leadership position with CO Ltd. while he was based in the U.S. Over-all coordinator for the conference was Lita Salinas, director of Contemplative Outreach, Phil. (COP). From Malaysia came Bro. Peter Foo, a La Salle brother, and Lawrence Wong who in their capacity as CO country representatives have given many Introductory Workshops in Malaysia. Australia was represented by Sr. Sheila Normoyle, Janice Martin and Myrna Novosel from Sydney. Their group is the youngest in the network, being less than 2 years old. As for the host country, Philippines, the whole Board of Trustees of COP was in attendance. Japan and Singapore were unable to send representatives to the conference due to scheduling conflicts but they fully supported the meeting and offered prayers for its success. Furthermore, some of the team leaders in the different countries sent their written comments and suggestions for inclusion in the meeting agenda. These were properly addressed and shared with the group.

Indeed the way has been prepared and the seed planted for the spread of CP in Asia-Australia. May it fall on good ground so that more and more people in this part of the world may be graced with the gift of centering prayer and contemplative spirituality, leading to inner transformation and greater intimacy with God.

(Submitted by Tess Colayco
COP, International contact person)