MGLs still growing, 30 years after foundation

By Matthew Biddle 

THIRTY years after their foundation, the Missionaries of God’s Love (MGL) are embarking on another expansion in Canberra to meet the steady increase in vocations.

The religious congregation’s headquarters in Garran, ACT, will be extended to provide a large classroom, 10 extra bedrooms, and other facilities, at a cost of about $800,000.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse officially blessed the construction site on April 2, at the conclusion of a special Mass to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the congregation.

Archbishop Christopher Prowse blesses the site of the Missionaries of God’s Love novitiate house extensions. PHOTO: MATTHEW BIDDLE

Fr Ken Barker MGL, the congregation’s founder and moderator, said 2016 was a particularly special year for the entire community, and an opportunity to reflect upon the many blessings of the past three decades.

“I am thankful for the way that God has worked in the hearts of young men, way beyond my expectations, and way beyond anything that I could have produced or thought up,” he said.

“It’s all God’s grace, in this day and age, and in this particular time of the Church, that he would raise up young men of this calibre to give their hearts to God.

“I’m also thankful for the many people who have been contributors along the way, in so many different ways.”

Fr Ken said six young men were on the verge of ordination presently, demonstrating the congregation’s growth.

“We’re hoping to open up another mission here in Australia as well as maybe another one overseas,” he said.

The MGLs are a consecrated group within a Catholic charismatic covenant community, the Disciples of Jesus. In 2014 the congregation was formally recognised by the Vatican as a religious institute of diocesan right.

To support the MGL Novitiate House building appeal by making a financial donation, contact Fr Ken Barker MGL: (02) 6281 0132 or frkenmgl@gmail.com. All donations are tax deductible.