By Tim Rohr
"The Phoenix Foundation is a non-profit organization that was formed to save the Chancery which has monumental spiritual, historical, and cultural significance for the Catholic faithful of Guam and the island community. The Phoenix Foundation is NOT an organization affiliated with Father Duenas Memorial School and is not under the Archdiocese of Agana. It is an independent non-profit group comprised of Former Governor Eddie Calvo, retired Major General Benny Paulino, Guam National Guard, Tim Oftana, Chris Felix, Joaquin Cook, Frank Shimizu, Sr., Edward Untalan, and Annmarie Muna."
And here is a recent release from "the Hill:"
AUG. 1, 2023 -- NEWS RELEASE
Archdiocese thanks Phoenix Foundation
for non-profit group's efforts to save Archbishop’s home, Chancery
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On behalf of the entire Archdiocese of Agaña, Apostolic Administrator Father Romeo Convocar thanks the Phoenix Foundation for all its efforts to preserve the Archbishop’s home and Chancery facilities on San Ramon Hill.
The Chancery site is one of the properties the archdiocese has had to place for sale as part of the Chapter 11 Reorganization with victim survivors of clergy sexual abuse on Guam. A group of faithful Catholics have formed the non-profit group, Phoenix Foundation and is purchasing the property which is much revered because of its special landmark as the place where Saint John Paul the Great slept overnight during his historic visit to Guam in February of 1981.
“We are indebted to the members of the Phoenix Foundation for the tremendous initiative they have taken to rescue the Chancery offices and home of the archbishop,” Father Romy said.
“Offices and functions of the archdiocese such as the Archbishop and Chancellor offices, Marriage Tribunal, Safe Environment Office, Catholic Schools, Archives, Finances and Communication sections, among others are located at the Chancery,” Father Romy said.
“Most of all, the unique distinction of the Chancery as a place where a saint visited, rested and slept overnight is one of the main reasons for preserving the site,” added Father Romy. “As mentioned, it has great historical, spiritual and cultural significance to not just Catholics but the people of Guam in general.”
“I humbly ask all Catholics at our parishes and schools, and the community in general, to help the Phoenix Foundation in its drive to raise the necessary funds to complete the purchase of the Chancery,” said Father Romy. "There is only a short window to do so and must be done by October. Thank you."
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Sent by Tony C. Diaz, Archdiocese of Agana Director of Communications, (671) 562-0065, tony.diaz@archagana.org
This post received nearly 100 views within the first hour of its being posted. That's the most in a very long time. Many people appear to be paying attention. Good.
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear of this effort to purchase the Chancery and will try to help out with fundraising if I can. If I am not mistaken, the San Vitores shrine in Tumon has also been offered up for purchase. Has this already been done or could a similar fundraising effort to save it be done?
ReplyDeleteI don't know the answer to that. I'm assuming one can contact the chancery directly and ask. The property though is worth quite a bit more given its location.
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