The Record Newspaper - 02 February 2006 by The Record

God is love Benedict XVI’s first encyclical is a profound exploration of the nature of love. Find out what is so special about Deus Caritas Est.

PAGES 8 & 9 2000 youth hit Brisbane streets:

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60 MINUTES: Priests aim to help stuPage 3 dents get close to the Lord

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LIFE MATTERS: Bioethicists meet at national Melbourne gathering Page 6

RAISE IT: If your son might be same-sex attracted, how do you help? Vista 4

Church ads barred Women’s abortion pain deemed ‘offensive’ by Perth advertising agency

It’s ‘Kong Hee Fat Choy’ as Perth’s Chinese Catholics welcome...

While Australia conducts an open debate about the abortion pill RU-486, the country’s leading outdoor advertiser, APN Outdoor, has banned the subject from its billboards. Last week the Respect Life Office (RLO) sought to display billboard images (see Page 2) which highlight the trauma many women experience after abortion. The office was initially told by APN by phone that their request was rejected by top management because the images were considered “political in nature” and “offensive.” In later correspondence the RLO was informed that the images could not be displayed because ‘RU-486 is currently being debated by the Australian Government.’ Respect Life Office executive director Clare Pike said it was “staggering” that matters being considered by the Government could be classified as beyond debate for the general public, particularly as the matter would be open to a conscience vote and was therefore not even ‘party political’. The RLO’s campaign was not intended to make a political statement. “These images are about the pain women are suffering and should be a concern for both pro-life and pro-choice proponents,” she said. “This message was not attacking any person or opinion. It was simply the revelation of one woman’s

THE YEAR OF THE DOG ■ Story, photos: Jamie O’Brien

Chinese New Year was celebrated at St Brigid’s Parish West Perth last weekend January 29 with the installation of Fr Dominic Su as Chaplain of the Chinese Catholic Community of Perth. The celebration of Chinese New Year is decided by the lunar calendar according to the first new moon. Last year, Archbishop Hickey granted a special dispensation from the usual requirements of abstinence to members of the Continued on Page 6 Long life and prosperity: Auxiliary Bishop Donald Sproxton hands out traditional red packets containing a ‘gold’ coin, at top, during the Mass for Chinese New Year celebrated at St Brigid’s Church in West Perth last Sunday. Bishop Sproxton also blessed Fr Dominic Su, at right, as the new chaplain for Perth’s Chinese Catholics. Afterwards, revellers performed a traditional Lion Dance.

Continued on Page 2

NOT SO DEAD AFTER ALL Catholics should learn to recite at least the basic prayers of Christian life in Latin, Pope Benedict urged last year. Out of sight (and mind) for decades, is Latin coming back?

Vista 1-3

INDEX Letters - Page 6 Family is the Future - Page VISTA 4 New Maranatha courses to begin - Page 10 Local news - Page 10 Classifieds, official appointments - Page 11

L’ARCHE COMES TO PERTH A meeting to be held in February is open to all who are interested in seeing this remarkable movement caring for the intellectually disabled establish itself in Perth.

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February 2 2005, The Record

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RU-486 ads banned

L’Arche comes to Perth ■ By Jamie O’Brien

n international Catholic moveA ment that assists people with intellectual disabilities to live with dignity is coming to Perth. The L’Arche Community was founded in France in 1964 by Jean Vanier and now has a presence in 31 countries on five continents, providing family-style homes and lifestyle support to approximately 3000 people with an intellectual disability. A group in Perth is keen to establish a community here and wants to invite other like-minded people to help them make their dream a reality. After meeting Raphael Simi and Philippe Seux, who were living in a large institution near Paris, Mr Vanier invited them to come and make a home with him. He knew he could not help everyone, but that by helping a few he might be a sign to

Founder: the L’Arche Community’s founder, Jean Vanier.

others. In 1964, the trio embarked on a new life, in an ordinary house in an ordinary village near Compiegne, France. With help from friends in the Church and state, then more people from different denominations and different countries, one house

turned into several, a community called L’Arche was born and many more founding stories began. “Whatever their gifts or limitations, people are all bound together in a common humanity,” Mr Vanier once said. “Everyone is of unique and sacred value and everyone has the same dignity and the same rights.” In Australia, L’Arche communities in Tasmania, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory have been flourishing for more than 20 years. Anyone interested in seeing a L’Arche community established in Perth is invited to a meeting to take place at the Warehouse Café, 221 Onslow Road, Shenton Park, on Thursday February 16 at 7.30pm. For more information about L’Arche in Australia go to www. larche.org.au or contact Chris King in Perth via chrisking@iinet.net.au or (08) 9383 4313

Meet my wives, Mrs Smith and Mrs Smith... ■ By Caroline Moynihan

ocial acceptance of polygamy is only a matter of time, says S the leader of a self-styled Christian organisation interviewed by The Washington Times. Liberals and feminists have to be pro-polygamy because of their tolerance doctrine and belief in a woman’s right to choose, says Mark Henkel, who aims to convince conservatives, especially Christians, that “consenting adult” polygamy is biblical and valuable to society as well as to individual men and women. The Times article reviews

the status of polygamy in the US and recent court cases. It says two 2003 court rulings changed the legal landscape on sex and marriage: The Lawrence v Texas decision by the US Supreme Court disallows states from criminalising private sexual behaviour, such as sodomy, among consenting adults. And the Goodridge decision by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, which legalised same-sex “marriage” in that state, says “the right to marry means little if it does not include the right to marry the person of one’s choice”.

Taken together, says conservative columnist Charles Krauthammer, these rulings seem to support a right to polygamy. The case may be stronger than the case for homosexual marriage, said two judges in this year’s Lewis v Harris case in New Jersey, because polygamy has been and still is condoned by many religions and societies. An estimated 30,000 to 80,000 families are living polygamously in the US, including Laotian Hmongs, fundamentalist Mormons and members of several black communities. - FamilyEdge e-zine

Too offensive to be seen? the advertisements which the Respect Life Office tried to book through APN but which were rejected by the agency. Continued from Page 1

the harmful effects of abortion and RU-486.” Miss Pike said the RLO was well aware of the devastation abortion can cause women because it provides post-abortion healing and therapy through a program called Project Rachel. Many women seeking help had experienced substance abuse, anxiety, sleep disorders, suicidal thoughts, psychiatric illness, risk-

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taking behaviour and relationship problems as a result of their abortion. Compounding these struggles was the sense that nobody recognises or cares about their trauma. “Imagine” said Miss Pike, “how these post-abortive women will feel when they are told that speaking about their pain is “offensive,” a word the Oxford Dictionary defines as ‘aggressive; insulting; disgusting and nauseous’.”

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February 2 2005, The Record

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Once they discover holy hours, children seem to pick up on other aspects of faith with greater interest, says priest â&#x2013; By Jamie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien

wo US-based priests are coming to Perth from February 26 to March 5 to promote praying in front of the Blessed Sacrament for children and students and to offer catechesis on the real presence of Christ. Frs Antoine Thomas and Victor Schumaker, members of the Community of St John, have also been travelling the US and Canada, encouraging parents to bring their children to pray in front of the Blessed Sacrament. They say they have heard many reasons why parents hesitate to bring young children before the Eucharist each week to adore Jesus. The priests show children how to pray in front of the Blessed Sacrament using guided Eucharistic Adoration to prove that children are not too young to sit still, or to understand what is happening. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some parents feel that it is hard enough to get them to be attentive at Mass, and if they add another hour on Sunday, how can they expect them to behave,â&#x20AC;? Fr Thomas said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The program has had enormous reception in the US and Canada,â&#x20AC;? said Glendalough Parish Priest Fr Doug Harris. Fr Harris is the Perpetual Adoration Chaplain

for the Archdiocese of Perth. Fr Thomas said is it is important to teach children to make acts of adoration throughout their day, beginning first thing in the morning as soon as they awake. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For parents especially, from morning to evening you go through all kinds of activities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is so much going on around your homes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Are you sometimes too busy to stop and drive your children to the Adoration chapel? â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a good reason to develop a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Spirit of Adorationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in your children,â&#x20AC;? Fr Thomas said. Children who previously had only the weekly experience of Mass, Fr Thomas said, discover that the Host is actually the person of Jesus, mysteriously hidden. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They develop a greater interest in the mysteries of our Faith and the liturgy of the Mass. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They understand â&#x20AC;&#x201D; more than other children of their age who have not experienced Eucharistic Adoration â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the relationship between the gift of the Eucharistic Presence of Jesus and His sacrifice on the Cross out of love for mankind. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They become much more aware of the various degrees of sin and seem very eager to receive the sacrament of Confession often. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Families accompanying their children witness a growing desire for peace and forgiveness within the family. For more information, contact Fr Doug Harris on (08) 9444 6131, or visit Fr Antoineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www. childrenofhope.org

Violent games-aggression link: study A team from the University of Missouri-Columbia monitored the brain activity of 39 people playing violent video games and found they were more likely to act aggressively. When shown images of real-life violence, they had a diminished response. But when shown other disturbing images â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as dead

animals or sick children â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they had a much more natural response. Given the opportunity to punish a pretend opponent, those with the strongest brain response to video violence meted out the severest punishments, the researchers reported on the New Scientist website. - FamilyEdge e-zine

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ered that a notoriously difficult class in a Liverpool comprehensive school only behaved itself when it was treated well by the teacher of a creative design and technology class. Dr Swinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s four steps for tackling misbehaviour are: â&#x2013; Always make requirements absolutely clear â&#x20AC;&#x201C; materials needed, permitted noise levels and seating arrangements. â&#x2013; Remember to look for the

behaviour you want rather than the behaviour you do not want. â&#x2013; Acknowledge pupils frequently when they are doing what is required â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but do not be too effusive and give private feedback, particularly to older pupils. â&#x2013; Change the frequency of the feedback â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and remember that telling pupils off is wasted effort, unless they are told what behaviour is expected. - FamilyEdge e-zine

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Prayers, hymns were louder than pubs Faith explodes on city nightclub strip ■ By Paul Gray

hot January night in Brisbane. Between 7pm and 8pm, pubs and nightclubs are crowded with people celebrating summer in the traditional Australian way.

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Through this busy drinkers’ strip, an estimated crowd of 2000 Catholics - more than half of them young people - spends 90 minutes parading through the streets behind a monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament. Their bishop leads them. In a provocative public demonstration of faith, these people sing hymns and songs of praise to God. Inevitably, some local nightclubbers call out as the procession passes by. But the noise of the interjectors is drowned out by the music of praise raised high by young Catholics. This was the scene in Brisbane two weekends ago as ADORE 2006, a national conference and faithenriching event for young people, spilled out on to the streets of its host city. Participant James Foster, who at 23 is acting president of the Australian Catholic Students Association, described the Saturday night procession as one of the most dramatic moments in the four-day series of events. “There were people shouting out at us from the clubs, as people do. But our prayers, hymns and songs were louder than the noise echoing from the pubs and clubs.” An initiative of the Alliance of the Holy Family - one of the new ecclesial movements encouraged by Popes John Paul II and Benedict

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Participants of the ADORE 2006 Conference in Brisbane processed through the streets, singing louder than the noice from local pubs and clubs.

XVI – ADORE has now taken place in major Australian cities in three summers in succession. The four-day gathering, which centres on a conference and liturgical celebrations, is designed to encourage young Catholics to understand their faith better and devote time to considering God’s will in their lives, Mr Foster told The Record. “ADORE brings young people closer to Jesus and Mary. It is designed to enrich young people’s faith,” he said. ADORE 2006 was endorsed by

Brisbane Archbishop John Bathersby and led on the Saturday night by the Bishop of Lismore, Geoffrey Jarrett. Bishop Julian Porteous from Sydney and Brisbane’s Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Oudeman also participated. Mr Foster said that one of the striking features of ADORE 2006 was the enthusiasm for the Catholic faith developed by many participants during the four-day gathering. One youth, aged 17, whom Mr Foster met on the weekend told him: “I’ve been going to Sunday

Mass with my parents, but I didn’t believe in God. “Now I believe in God.” The 17-year-old said he had not enjoyed the first three days of the conference, but had spent them asking questions about faith of priests and fellow participants. “Then the fourth day, he really liked.” This type of response was reported by many other young participants. Of the 650 registrants at the ADORE conference, 50 initially indicated that they had not particularly wished to be there. By the end of the four days, many of these 50 reported that they now wished it would last for two more. Mr Foster was impressed by the size of the ADORE 2006. “I think that not counting some Catholic school events, where the participation of students is compulsory, ADORE is the largest event like this now taking place in Australia.” “It’s a big thing for young people to give up four days out of their holidays and travel on a bus or train to a different city for an event like this,” he said. A theme of the ADORE conference was that whatever individuals’ vocation in life should be – as a married person, a professional person, a worker or a religious – every person should think of “what is God’s will for my life.

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Join Pope Benedict XVI in prayer - February “That the International Community may be ever more aware of the urgent duty to bring an end to the trafficking of human beings.” Mission intention: “That in the Missions the lay faithful may recognize the need to serve their own country with greater commitment also in its political and social life.”

February 2 2005, The Record

Page 5

Convert finds solitude through heritage A

thol Bloomerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s identity as a Hebrew Catholic was born from a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;cross-pollinationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of Jewish ancestry and a visiting American evangelist. Athol was born in Perth in 1963 to Gilbert, an atheist of Jewish ancestry, and Laurie, a woman who was indifferent to her Jewish roots. The familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, however, was transformed in 1959 when the Billy Graham crusade landed in Perth and Laurie became a born-again Anglican. Her new zeal also led her to become involved in a Jewish/ Christian organisation whose primary focus was the evangelisation of Jews. When Athol was seven his mother prepared him and his siblings for baptism into the Anglican Church. In search of a loophole to try to deter the family from converting, Gilbert read through the entire Bible. As a result he was also baptised later that year. However during his teenage years Athol embarked on his own spiritual journey. Throughout this time he maintained a connection to his Jewish roots by reading and studying, while always rejecting the religious aspects of Judaism. However at the age of 18 Athol experienced a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dramatic encounter with the Holy Spiritâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and found himself praying in tongues and became aware of the sinfulness of the false spiritual paths that he had been following. From there Athol ultimately began a journey to find a spiritual home. In 1985, after a period of teaching in NSW, Athol returned to Perth and was elected to be a delegate at the National Anglican Youth Synod in Sydney. It was during this Synod that he became disillusioned with the Anglican Church and began to look elsewhere. He soon found himself studying in Melbourne and working with drug addicts and people who were

Athol Bloomer

living on the streets. Through a friend he was introduced to Rabbi Katz, the Melbourne University Chaplain, who took him to a conference on Jewish Identity and introduced him to the Orthodox Jewish community. He began studying with several Rabbis, maintaing his belief in Jesus as the Messiah, which was an ongoing point of contention with the Rabbis. It was during this time he made a decision to venture into a nearby empty church, which happened to be Catholic. The venture led him to St Francis Church in the city where he then became overwhelmed with the power of the Eucharist during Benediction. He began attending Eucharistic Adoration and soon rang St Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cathedral and began Catholic Instruction with the Dean. In May 1987, at the age of 24, Athol was welcomed into the Catholic faith wearing a kippa (skull cap) and tallis (prayer shawl) and began to attend a Hebrew Catholic study group. He continued to be Torah observant and attended the Orthodox Jewish synagogue for High holidays, weddings and occasions with friends, but he knew that he had found his spiritual home in the Catholic Church. While attending meetings of the Association of Hebrew Catholics, which were led by Holocaust survivor Andrew Sholl, Athol contin-

Archbishop on air

ued his work with the homeless and those caught in drug addiction and prostitution. He also became involved in prayer and healing ministry with his local parish priest, Fr Joe Grech (now Bishop of Sandhurst) during which he wore his kippa and tallis. He recalls many of the older ethnic women asking if they could, â&#x20AC;&#x153;be prayed over by the Jewish boy.â&#x20AC;? In 1993 while finishing his education studies at the Australian Catholic University in Melbourne, Athol was accepted to join the Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament in the Philippines to become a priest. After three years Athol decided not to continue and returned to Australia to teach. In mid 1997 he was offered a teaching job in Thailand and this became his home for the next 5 years. During this time he was able to speak to groups about Eucharistic Adoration as well as beginning a prayer ministry with the local priest and bishop. He continued to read and learn about his Jewish heritage and its relationship to Catholicism. During this time Athol was reunited with Fr Pat Barry, a friend from the Seminary in the Philippines. Pat had been ordained

What is the Association of Hebrew Catholics (AHC)?

to the priesthood in May 2002 and was spreading Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration. As a result Athol was invited to join Fr Pat in attempting to establish an Adoration Chapel in Jerusalem. He accepted the challenge and during this time he was also able to study Hebrew and other Jewish subjects at a college next to the Wailing Wall. It was a unique and often intense existence as he promoted Adoration and studied Judaism (while trying to remember to remove his skull cap when passing through the

Muslim Quarter) in an environment of bombings and violence. He returned to Perth in May 2004 and continued his involvement with the Association of Hebrew Catholics. Athol continues to speak to various groups around Perth as a member of the Association. Athol recently completed a series of talks on Judaism and Scripture in Spearwood and anticipates that he will deliver more talks in the near future. For copies of recent talks or for future speaking dates contact Jenny Troy on 9494 2604.

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The AHC is a voluntary association of Catholics of both Jewish and non-Jewish origins. It was launched in 1979 by Fr Elias Friedman, a Hebrew Catholic friar, and Holocaust survivor Andrew Sholl. The AHC aims to end the alienation of Catholics of Jewish origin and background from their historical heritage by the formation of a Hebrew Catholic Community judicially approved by the Holy See. For further information contact Athol Bloomer on (08) 9444 6131 or see www.hebrewcatholic.org

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February 2 2005, The Record

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Bioethicists challenge ideas about life Dozens of prominent experts of health, law, philosophy and government recently attended the first National Colloquium for Catholic Bioethicists

No holding back for Chinese New Year and community here,” Fr Su said. For more information, contact Fr Su on (08) 9294 3504.

Convert was overwhelmed with Church

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The baptism of a 66-year-old Chinese woman who lived in Perth and converted to Catholicism four weeks before she died was a lifelong desire, according to her daughter. Mary Tong died of breast cancer in November 2005 after being baptised at home by the newly appointed Chinese Catholic Chaplain, Fr Dominic Su, just four weeks before her death. Her daughter, Janice O’Callaghan said her mother’s conversion to Christianity changed her life. “She had waited for the right moment,” Mrs O’Callaghan said. “I had asked her a number of times before if she wanted to be baptised and when Fr Su asked her I was really very happy that at last she had made a decision,” Mrs O’Callaghan said. She too converted in 1994 and said this was from the influence of

her mother. Mrs Tong grew up in Po, China, and used to go to Mass as a teenager with friends. After finishing school, she moved to Hong Kong where she met her husband and married in 1963. Mrs O’Callaghan said her mother’s desire to be part of the Catholic Church increased after moving to Australia in 1968. She would visit the All Saints Chapel on St George’s Tce regularly, where she also met a number of other Chinese Catholics, and was overwhelmed when learning about Church teachings, such as forgiveness. Although she only spoke Cantonese and Mandarin, Mary Tong enjoyed going to Mass in English on a regular basis. Immediately after her baptism, Janice recalls how her mother had said “my eyes don’t feel so heavy” and that she felt ‘enlightened.’

l e Aro

Chinese Catholic community, as the lunar New Year coincided with Ash Wednesday. This year, those celebrating Chinese New Year had no reason to hold back on celebrations and more than 120 people attended the Mass presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Donald Sproxton, which was celebrated in both Chinese and English. Usually the Mass for Chinese Catholics is celebrated in Mandarin; it has been celebrated on a weekly basis for more than a year. Fr Su, a Salvatorian priest, originally from Taiwan, told The Record the numbers within the Chinese Catholic Community in Perth are slowly increasing, especially at special celebrations such as Christmas and Easter, with more than 200 people at Christmas Mass last year. He said he had met the Chinese Catholic Community during a visit to Perth from Taiwan, and was happy to be of service to them. It is especially good to see young people at the weekly Masses, even though some don’t speak Chinese very well. “Some people still go to the local

parish but come to the Chinese Mass on special occasions. “There is a sense of nationality

letters to the editor

Continued from page 1

our heads together for our own intellectual fulfilment. We’re seeking to be bioethicists at the service of the community.” One divisive issue addressed by Dr Vout at the Colloquium was the use of “women-centred” arguments in the abortion debate. Arguments focused on the welfare of women, rather than the sanctity of the human life of the fetus. “I think in our Catholic tradition, we’ve got a strong heritage of supporting women, and of caring for pregnant women and for families, which places us in good stead to continue with this work and this concern,” she said. “At the same time, we’ve got a body of teaching, and expertise too, to think about the moral status of the fetus, and therefore the rights that the fetus has. So I think we are in a place where we have a lot of expertise to be thinking the effects of abortion, both upon the unborn child and upon women and families, and even more broadly, on our culture and our society.” The world outside the Catholic community expects strong state-

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people and good for society, to others,” she told The Record after her address. Dr Vout acknowledged that there are often divisions even among people with a common purpose, like Catholic bioethicists. But meetings like this were a useful way to deal with such divisions, she said. “It’s healthy. It’s certainly part of the Catholic tradition that we throw ideas around, that we challenge each other’s ideas and assumptions, and that we ultimately come to some consensus about what’s true and what’s good. This is a great forum for that to happen.” Dr Vout said the gathering was looking closely at the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Research involving Humans, a key document published by the Federal Government’s National Health and Medical Research Council. “What’s important about that is that we’re looking at this document with a view to how we can participate in the whole public process, to see that we can have a good sound document, for the community. “This is not just about us putting

d the t

he tragedy of injured and ill people left in a vegetative state - dramatically highlighted by the Terri Schiavo and Maria Korp news stories last year - have been discussed at the first-ever national gathering of Catholic bioethicists, held this week. The National Colloquium for Catholic Bioethicists, held at the John Paul II Institute for Marriage and the Family in Melbourne, drew dozens of prominent attendees and practitioners from the fields of health care, law, philosophy and government. Three members of the Australian Catholic Bishops conference also attended. Other issues discussed at the gathering included new ethical challenges provoked by researchers using parts of the human body, including foetal tissue, as a research tool. Prominent ethicist Dr Nicholas Tonti-Filippini, who helped organise the Colloquium, said its purpose was to help advisers, in hospitals and in Catholic education, to become informed and engage in new thinking in three emerging areas. The three were organ donation from the deceased, the writing of new Federal Government guidelines for medical research and the care of people in an unresponsive state. All are now being closely scrutinised by Government authorities, Dr TontiFilippini told The Record. Most of the participants at the gathering are people now working “at the coalface” of ethical dilemmas in hospitals, Dr Tonti-Filippini said. For them, the advantage of the Colloquium was to “get updated on

what’s new and what’s developing.” For example, the donation of tissue from people after cardiac death, rather than brain death, is an area that is now developing, Dr TontiFilippini said. “There’s a whole lot of new issues associated with that, about when you can declare death, how long after you withdraw a ventilator is somebody dead and all sorts of issues that are quite complicated and are raising new questions for us. “Both the ethicists and the doctors are confronting new things. At this Colloquium, what we’re doing is bringing the disciplines together - medicine, philosophy, theology, law, social sciences - to see if we can thrash these issues out, and get better informed.” While the Colloquium was not designed to influence the Australian Bishops’ thinking about new issues, many church leaders will take notice of its discussions, Dr TontiFilippini said. “Bishops will often seek advice from people like the people here, but we’re not trying in this group to advise bishops,” he said. “But obviously a lot of the people here are advisers to the bishops, so indirectly, we’re looking to assist that process.” Dr Brigid Vout, Executive Officer for the Respect Life Office of the Catholic Church in Sydney, was a co-leader of one of the conference sessions, addressing “New Approaches to Induced Abortion.” “The most valuable thing to be gained from discussions like this is that they’re undertaken in a spirit of collegiality: that we’re together, trying to clarify our reasoning about ethical issues. We do that, not to come to clarity ourselves, but to find ways by which we can communicate what we believe to be sound ethical teaching, which is good for

■ By Paul Gray

Who knows? lan Carpenter, the A former Minister for State Development has become Premier of Western Australia. What can we expect and what kind of Premier will Alan Carpenter be? Among his first statements after his election by the Labor Caucus was: “I support a woman’s right to have an abortion…and equally if people have a terminal illness and want - at the appropriate time – to end their lives, I support that right unequivocally” (West Australian 21 January 2006) He strongly supported and voted for the Bill to legalise abortion in 1998. He told the ABC that children in

ments from the Church about this issue, Dr Vout said. “I think everybody knows the Catholic Church’s stance on abortion. As a young Catholic woman, I express gratitude to the people who have gone before me that that teaching has been espoused. “We have a good record, and credibility, for not just saying that the life of the unborn child is important, but also for seeing that women are supported in their pregnancies, particularly when they’re pregnant in difficult circumstances. “I think the community expects a good argument from the Church about abortion, but they also rightly expect that we need to back up our words by action.” Other participants at the fourday gathering included Sydney Auxiliary Bishop Anthony Fisher OP, Broken Bay Bishop David Walker, the Director of the John Paul II Institute, Mgr Peter Elliott, Federal Cabinet Minister Kevin Andrews, National Health and Medical Research Council member Professor Colin Thompson, the Director of the Caroline Chisholm Centre for Health Ethics, Dr Norman Ford, former Victorian Governor Sir James Gobbo, Victorian MP and John Paul II Institute student Christine Campbell, Monash University School of Nursing’s Professor Margaret O’Connor, Australian Catholic University Philosophy lecturer Mr Peter Coghlan, Australian Health Ethics Committee members Professor Christopher Cordner and Rev Bill Uren SJ, the Director of the Critical Care Unit at Melbourne’s Northern Hospital, Dr Graeme Duke, the Director of the Intensive Care Unit at Melbourne’s St Vincent’s Hospital, Dr John Santamaria, Canberra research scientist Dr Peter McCullagh, the Master of the Catholic Medical Guild of Singapore, Dr John Hui and the Research Director for the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, Mr Peter McArdle.

Western Australian state schools would not raise the Australian flag and sing the National Anthem each day. “I am a Replublican and an Atheist.” He said. Brian A Peachey Woodlands

Victims grateful n behalf of all the victims of O Natural Disasters, who will benefit from the money raised at the Fundraising Garage Sale on 21st January, I wish to thank your readers for their support. I am happy to inform you that we raised an overwhelming amount of just over $5,000, and a cheque has been sent to Caritas. We hope to hold further fundraising garage sales, bi-annually, and I look forward to your future support. Margaret Laundy Ocean Reef

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Vista

February 2 2005

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Dominus Vobiscum (The Lord be with you)

■ By Emily Stimpson

“P

ope presents summary of Catechism, urges memorising prayers in Latin.” Fifty years ago, that headline would have struck most readers as somewhat strange, almost surreal rather along the same lines as “British prime minister urges his countrymen to speak English.” But this is 2006, not 1956. So, when the USbased Catholic News Service ran a story with that headline in June last year, the only eyebrows raised belonged to those who couldn’t understand why the Bishop of Rome wanted people to spend their time memorising ancient prayers in a dead language. After all, didn’t the Second Vatican Council do away with all that? What those naysayers failed to see was that Pope Benedict XVI was not making his comments in a cultural vacuum or announcing some new and innovative papal agenda. Rather, by calling Catholics back to praying in the language that he called “the vehicle and instrument of Christian culture’ the Pope was simply echoing what he and other scholars of history, science and education have been saying with increasing urgency for the past decade that the survival of the Latin language is critical both for deepening the bonds of unity among the faithful and for preserving what is best and most noble in Western civilisation.

Language of the learned Their case is not hard to make. Latin was the language of the Roman Empire. It was the language in which many early Church Fathers defended the truths of Christianity. And, according to E. Christian Kopff, classics professor at University of Colorado in Boulder and author of The Devil Knows Latin (ISI Books, $14.95), it was the language that reunited Europe more than three centuries after the fall of the old Empire. “What Charlemagne found in the eighth century was many people speaking many different languages’ Kopff said. “Their inability to communicate made real unity nearly impossible. So, Charlemagne made Latin the language of education. Then, not only was he able to communicate with people from all over his new empire, but he also had the weight of Roman culture and tradition behind him.” From the ninth century onward, being an educated person meant being able to read, write and speak Latin. It and Greek, became the twin pillars of a classical education. For nearly a millennium, young boys (and the occasional girl) learned the intricacies of grammar, logic and rhetoric by studying the language of Virgil, Cicero and St Thomas Aquinas. Political influences Over time, Latin became the language of the Church, giving all believers a common language in which to pray and worship. Later, it permeated the vocabulary of law and science, not to mention the everyday vocabularies of French, Spanish and

Italian. It also left its mark on the American political system. “In America today, we elect a president. We have a senate. For nearly every institution we value, we use Latin terms’ Kopff noted, “We could hardly think about our free institutions without Latin.” The reason for that, according to Tracy Lee Simmons, author of Climbing Parnassus: A New Apologia for Greek and Latin (ISI Books, $24.95), is that America’s founding fathers, like their European peers, were schooled in the classical tradition. “All you have to do is go to Washington, and look at the monuments and the earliest buildings, the ones constructed within decades of our founding, to know that they were designed when people were much better informed about classical antiquity” he said. “It is inconceivable that we could have American society, with our understanding of law and justice, without our classical past.” Continued on Vista 2

Start with the basics: Sign of the Cross In nómine Patris, et Fílii, et Spíritus Sancti. Amen.

Et cum spiritu tuo (And with your spirit)

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February 2 2005, The Record

So, is Latin a key to higher intelligence? Continued from Vista 1

Disappearing tongue Yet, despite its enormous influence on culture, religion, science and politics, Latin has all but disappeared from the typical American classroom and the typical American parish. Although Simmons traces the beginning of Latin’s disappearance from the classroom back to the late 19th century, when education stopped being the exclusive privilege of the elite, Kopff points out that the most dramatic drop occurred in the 1960s. “As recently as 1962, there were almost 800,000 students studying Latin in American schools” he said. “By the late 1970s, that number was down to 150,000. What happened was that in the 1960s people became convinced that they could achieve the goals of higher education faster if they didn’t have to make students go through the gauntlet of studying Latin.” At the same time that new educational philosophies were persuading school administrators to drop Latin from their curriculums, the Second Vatican Council allowed parishes to begin celebrating the Mass in their country’s native language, although it emphasised the importance of Latin in the liturgy. Later, the Tridentine Rite Mass was replaced with the Novus Ordo Mass, and in the space of just a few years, more than a millennium of tradition in education and religion seemed all but lost. Classical revival But today, a quieter revolution is taking place. Schools that abandoned Latin decades ago, such as Boulder Public High in Boulder, Colorado, have reintroduced the language into the curriculum. The study of Latin has also become an integral part of the curriculum for many home schoolers and for students at private schools such as Aquinas Academy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. At the university level, a growing number of students are returning to the study of the classics and the Latin language, with the size

Ave Maria (Hail Mary) Ave, Maria, grátia plena, Dóminus tecum; benedícta tu in muliéribus, et benedíctus fructus ventris tui, Iesus. Sancta María, Mater Dei, ora pro nobis peccatóribus, nunc et in hora mortis nostræ. Amen

of the Latin program at the University of Georgia now rivalling the size of its Spanish program. Latin Masses are also springing up. While many families and older Catholics fill the pews at these traditional liturgies, a surprising number of the attendees are young people born long after the closing session of Vatican II. Archabbot Lambert Reilly, retired head of St Meinrad Archabbey in Indiana and author of Latin Quotes for Spiritual Growth (Our Sunday Visitor, US$19.95), attributes the growing love among young people for the Latin Mass to “a hankering for tradition.” “They believe they’ve lost something, and they want to go back to it,” he said. “In the Latin liturgy, they find a sense of beauty and mystery. It leads them into a discovery of God’s otherness.” Disciplining minds In the classroom, one of the main reasons for Latin’s re-emergence is its value as an educational tool. With its emphasis on grammar and logic, the language has no equal in disciplining young minds in a rigorous and systematic way. “The analytic character of studying Latin makes students better writers, better readers and possibly better thinkers, depending on how seriously they take it,” said Joseph Almeida, professor of classics at Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio. “With Latin, the roots and structure of their own language are laid open to them in a way it wouldn’t otherwise be.” Because of that, Kopff suggested that it was no coincidence that SAT scores reached their highest point in 1963, a time when more high school students than ever before were studying Latin. When it comes to older students, taking up the study of Latin and the classics in college, Simmons sees something even more fundamental at work. “At some point, many of these kids realise that tradition means something, that tradition is exciting and they want to get as close to it as possible,” he said. “Excluding theology, classics is as close as you

Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus (Holy, Holy, Holy) Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus Dóminus Deus Sábaoth. Pleni sunt cæli et terra glória tua. Hosánna in excélsis. Benedíctus qui venit in nómine Dómini. Hosánna in excélsis.

can get to those ultimate mysteries, plus it provides you with the languages to read about those ultimate mysteries in their original forms.” Taking up the study of those ultimate mysteries for the first time in college, however, is not nearly as easy as it is attractive. Until recently, students first encountered Latin in middle school or high school, during the mind’s formative years. Coming at the language later in life, even as early as 18, significantly lowers a student’s ability to assimilate the language and benefit from it in the same way that a younger student would. According to Almeida, most students who begin their Latin studies in college struggle with the language because of “an almost complete absence of preparation in English grammar and the basic analytic skills usually associated with it.” “They are,” he added, “the media generation. The modern educational system and the culture have not prepared them for the kinds of rigour and concentration required for picking up a language like Latin.” Connecting to Church Despite that struggle, the number of students studying Latin at Franciscan University and elsewhere continues to grow. Christy Wichert, a senior theology major at the school and a student in one of Almeida’s Latin classes, explained, “Latin is hard, but it’s beautiful. It’s the language in which the saints prayed, and by learning it I feel more connected to the Church across time.” Because of that sense of devotion, along with the increasing numbers of home schoolers and educators interested in the benefits of a classical education, Pope Benedict XVI’s comments could not come at a more opportune time, supporting the hopes of those working to recover an integral part of the Church’s and the culture’s history and making a widespread revival in the study of Latin a real possibility. Emily Stimpson writes from Ohio.

History of Latin and the Church

2005: Pope Benedict XVI encourages more use of Latin in prayers of the faithful.

1976: Pope Paul VI establishes the Latinitas Foundation, which promotes the study of the Latin language and increasd use of Latin by publishing texts in Latin.

1962—65: The Council Fathers at the Second Vatican Council affirm Latin’s place as the official language of the Catholic Church, but allow for use of the vernacular is some parts of the liturgy.

Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi: Miserére nobis. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi: Miserére nobis. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi: Dona nobis pacem.

382—406: St Jerome translates the Bible into Latin, known as “The Vulgate.” Since then Latin has been the official language of the Latin Rite of the Church.

Speaking the same language ■ By Emily Stimpson

hen Pope St Damasus I tasked St Jerome with translating the books of the Old and New Testaments into Latin, he was quite specific about what sort of Latin St Jerome was to use. He asked the scholar to translate the Scriptures from their original Hebrew and Greek into vulgata Latin, the Latin of the common people, not Ciceronian Latin, the Latin of the elite. The reason for the Pope’s request was simple: He wanted people from all classes throughout the vast Roman Empire to understand God’s Word. “Jerome had it easy,” joked Archabbot Lambert Reilly, retired archabbot of St Meinrad Archabbey in Indiana and author of Latin Quotes for Spiritual Growth. “Today, everyone’s trying to come up with one world language, and Americans, of course, want it to be English. But in the days of the old Roman Empire and for centuries after that, there was one world language - Latin.” Archabbot Lambert, who spent years teaching Latin, is passionate about the language in which the Catholic Church has thought and prayed for nearly two millennia. Although Latin is no longer universally known, as it was in the days of St Jerome, the archabbot points out that it has remained the language of the Church for its beauty, its precision and its long history as the Church’s native tongue.

Language of the Vatican But what exactly does it mean when we say that Latin is the language of the Church? According to Archabbot Lambert, the answer to that question depends on which century of the Church’s life you are talking about. “For centuries, Latin was simply the language that everyone knew,” he said. “Many of the early Church Fathers, save for the Greek Fathers, wrote in Latin. The Liturgy was in Latin. Everything read or said at the schools was Latin. Later, fewer people spoke the language, but it was still the language of the liturgy and the language of the seminaries. When I was in seminary 50 years ago, the textbooks for theology and philosophy were in Latin, and the professors would still regularly lecture in Latin. Vocations were in fact often decided on someone’s ability to deal with Latin.” “After the Second Vatican Council,” he continued, “we moved to the vernacular because that’s where the culture had moved, and the Church wanted people to have as much understanding about its liturgy and prayer as possible. The more you understand, the more you enter in knowingly and willingly. But, despite those changes, Latin still has an important place in the life of the Church.” And what is that place? To begin with, Latin is the national language of the Vatican. All papal documents and other official writings are published in Latin. It also remains the primary, if not the most frequently used,

language of the Sacred Liturgy for all Roman Catholics. And as Pope Benedict XVI recently stated, the Church urges all its members to know the most common prayers and responses said during Mass in their original Latin. Eternal voice According to Archabbot Lambert, history and tradition are among the reasons that Latin remains the language of the Church, but there is another practical reason for the language’s official status within Roman Catholicism. “Latin,” he said, “has a precision by choice of words. With Latin, you can do with words what with other languages you can only do with voice inflections.” Latin also has the added benefit of being a dead language or, in other words, a language no longer in use. Because of that the meanings of words are fixed and not subject to the changes that often happen over the years through common use. “After Ronald Knox translated the Scriptures into English,” said the Archabbot, “he wrote a little book called Trials of a Translator in which he talked about how much is lost in translation. The knowledge and use of Latin helps protect us from that. The Church has to express herself ” he summarised, “and Latin allows her to do that with the most clarity and the most universality. It connects us to our past and preserves eternal truths without corruption in translation. That’s why we always return to it, despite changes in the culture.”

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February 2 2005, The Record

A living lexicon? Rumours that Latin is a “dead” language have been greatly exaggerated. In fact, Latin continues to evolve and be updated thanks to the work of the Vatican’s Latinitas Foundation. Founded by Father Carlo Egger, Latinitas periodically releases a Lexicon Recentis Latinitatis (“Dictionary of Contemporary Latin”) that includes new Latin translations of modern words and phrases. The most recent volume was published in 1997. Here is a sample list of modern Latin terms: ambulance: árcera automatária apartheid: segregation nigritarum babysitter: infantária basketball: follies canistrique ludus binoculars: telescópium geminatum blue jeans: bracae línteae caerúleae cigarette: fistula nicotiana computer: instrumentum computatórium deodorant: foetoris delumentum discotheque: taberna discothecária drug: medicamentum stupefactivum flirt: amor levis full-time: munus pleni témporis gaffe: áctio incauta et incállida gulag: campus captivus custodiendis heliport: aëriportus helicopterorum hot pants: brevíssimae bracae femíneae hygiene: valetúdinis tuendae ars jazz: iazensis música jeep: autocinetum locis iniquis aptum jet: aërinavis celérrima kamikaze: voluntaries sui interemptor karate: oppugnátio intermis iapónica laser: instrumentum laséricum megalomania: effrenata glóriae appeténtia miniature golf: pilamálleus minutus motel: deversórium autocinéticum nylon: material plástica nailonensis parachute: umbrella descensória picnic: cénula subdivalis playboy: iúvenis voluptáris popcorn: máizae grana tosta punk: punkianae catervae ássecla rugby: ludus follies ovati smog: fumus et nebula snack bar: thermopólium potórium et gustatórium space shuttle: aeronavis sideralis circumvolans taxi: autocinetum meritórium terrorist: tromócrates thermos: lagoena calefacória vodka: válida pótio slávica weekend: éxiens hebdómada

Second Century AD: Africans Tertullian and Pope Victor, both considered among the first of Latin theological writers to translate into Latin the scriptures and other documents for the faithful.

t is a real dilemma. On the one hand, your aunt, your son’s RE teacher and the evening news reader all insist that Latin is one of those things that Catholics don’t have to worry about anymore. Along with chapel veils and fish on Fridays, they say, the Church did away with liturgical Latin at Vatican II. On the other hand, your new Pope includes a healthy dose of Latin in nearly every public Mass he prays, including World Youth Day Masses. He has also said on numerous occasions that Catholics need to not just know their prayers, but know and pray them in Latin. What is a good post-Vatican II Catholic to think? Clearing up confusion Perhaps a quick survey of what the Second Vatican Council actually said about Latin and the liturgy can clear up the confusion. According to Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, the main council document on the Church’s liturgical life, the fathers of the Second Vatican Council did anything but call for the end of the use of Latin in the Mass and other liturgical rites. In fact, they explicitly stated that Latin was to remain the Church’s primary liturgical language: “Particular law remaining in force, the use of the Latin language is to be preserved in the Latin rites” (No. 36). After making that clear, however, the bishops did go on to say that for pastoral purposes and with translations authorised by local ecclesias-

Panem nostrum quotidiánum da nobis hódie;

Amen.

Double Vowels When two vowels come together each keeps its own sound and constitutes a separate syllable However, AE and OE are pronounced as one sound, like E above. For AU, EU and AY, the two vowels form one syllable but both vowels must be distinctly heard. EI is similarly treated only when it occurs in the interjection.

tical authorities, priests could use the language of the people for some parts of the liturgy. Specifically, they named the readings and common prayers as the areas where the vernacular would be the most appropriate. The bishops also allowed priests, with the permission of the Holy See, to use the vernacular more extensively in the liturgy if they thought it pastorally necessary (No. 40). Next, the document went on to instruct all lay Catholics to learn, in Latin, the responses reserved for the congregation during Mass. That includes, among other parts, the Gloria, the Creed, and the Our Father. The bishops also made a point of saying that priests and bishops share the responsibility of the laity in this effort and that pastors need to take steps to ensure that learning is taking place (No. 54). Finally, Article 101 of the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy permitted priests to pray the Divine Office in the vernacular, but only when Latin proved to be a “grave obstacle” in their prayer life. The document then said that for the most part, clerics should continue to pray the daily prayer of the Church “in accordance with the centuries-old tradition of the Latin rite” — that is, in Latin. While subsequent Church documents have clarified or added to these main directives, not one of the three has been changed in any substantial way. That, of course, is why Pope Benedict XVI has been so adamant about reviving the use of Latin in the liturgy. That is also why, on matters of Church teaching, evening news readers should rarely be trusted.

Glória Patri (The Glory Be) et dimítte nobis débita nostra, sicut et nos dimíttimus debitoríbus nostris; et ne nos indúcas in tentatiónem; sed libéra nos a malo.

A is pronounced as in father, never as in the word can. E is pronounced as in red, men, met. I is pronounced as ee in feet, never as i in milk or tin. O is pronounced as in For, never as in go. U is pronounced as oo in moon. Y is pronounced and treated as the Latin I. (see above)

Third Century BC: Two forms of Latin exist — sermo urbanus for members of the elite and sermo vulgaris for the illiterate. Through those rose a third idiom, sermo quotidianus. Ecclesial Latin is eventually derived from sermo quotidanus.

■ By Emily Stimpson

Pater noster, qui es in cælis: Sanctificétur nomen tuum; advéniat regnum tuum; Fiat volúntas tua, sicut in cælo, et in terra.

Vowels

Page 3

How we dropped our native tongue

Pater Noster (The Our Father)

Pronunciation guide

U preceded by Q or NG and followed by another vowel as in words like qui and sanguis, keeps its normal sound and is uttered as one syllable with the vowel that follows: qui, quae, quod, quam, sanguis. But cui forms two syllables, and is pronounced as koo-ee.

Consonants C coming before e, ae, oe, i, y is pronounced like ch in church. CC before the same vowels is pronounced T-ch. SC before the same vowels is pronounced like Sh in shed Except for these cases, C is always pronounced like K. CH is always like K (even before E or I). G before e, ae, i, y, is soft as in generous. GN has the softened sound given to those letters in French and Italian. The nearest English equivalent would be N followed by Y. H is pronounced K in the two words nihil (nee-keel) and mihi (mee-kee) and their compounds. In all other cases H is mute. J, often written as I (e.g. juris or iurus), is treated

Glória Patri, et Fílio, et Spirítui Sancto. Sicut erat in princípio et nunc et semper et in sæcula sæculórum. Amen.

as Y, forming one sound with the vowel that follows it. R must be slightly rolled on the tongue (carnis). S is hard as in the English word sea, but is slightly softened when coming between two vowels. e.g. misericórdia T is like the English T, except as below. TI standing before a vowel and following any letter (except S, X, T) is pronounced tsee. TH is always simply T. X is pronounced ks, slightly softened when coming between vowels. XC before a, ae, oe, i, y = KSH. Before other vowels XC has the ordinary hard sound of the letters composing it. Z is pronounced dz. B, D, F, K, L, M, N, P, Q and V: Pronounced as in English Double consonants must be clearly sounded.

Page 4

Vista

February 2 2005, The Record

Being Heard

Straight or gay, he’s always your son

■ With John Heard

any young men feel they can ‘get away’ with otherwise poor behaviour because in the sphere of influence closest to their sexual experiences, there is no moral mentor to audit their actions. Parents of same sex attracted young men must not abdicate this responsibility. What would I tell a Catholic parent who suspects his/her son is gay? Don’t wait for your son to approach you. Sit down with him and ask - lovingly, firmly – if he is same sex attracted. Don’t get discouraged if he lies at first. Continue to assure him that if he were same sex attracted you’d still love him. Even if he passes for the most robust heterosexual on earth, if you have your doubts, no doubt he does too. You know your son. It is far

better to overcome transitory shyness and confront the issue head on. If you don’t, your son might resent you later and you’ll miss out on an opportunity to play a key role – as you should – in his adult flourishing. You might also come to regret it. So many parents marvel as their sons transform from devout, subtle

boys into angry, militant activists all too ready to parrot the latest antiCatholic slogans. This regrettable change, however, is – if not totally preventable, at least foreseeable. Same sex attracted young men know how to find each other. Chances are that your son, if he is ‘gay’, will have visited internet sites that allow him to chat with and

eventually meet other males. He might have sought out gay pornography. Whatever you think you know about the internet your son almost certainly knows more. It is imperative that you don’t let these influences supervene on your relationship. Your son must know that there is no gulf between you, that no matter what he’s going

through he is still called to a life worthy of Christ. ‘My mother does not understand’ or ‘Dad won’t talk to me about it’ are excuses that become justifications. There is no light in the closet and sin multiplies in the darkness. Add to this the depravity that swirls around gay bars and the eroticism that animates much of gay culture and continuing to ignore or deny your son’s sexual inclinations becomes a deficit in love. Further, it is much remarked that ‘out’ same sex attracted men often become ‘tired of the gay scene’ and return to a more stable life. A secret shame, a private sin, is more appealing than the flabby mediocrity that actually characterises the ‘gay community’. That’s why, for you son’s sake, you must direct him toward honesty. He also needs to know, because this is what the Church teaches, that there is nothing wrong with him simply because he feels attracted to other males. He needs to know that, like any other Catholic, he will be judged on his actions. Ultimately, for those wounded by the Light, there can be no deliberate darkness. And no closet on earth can withstand the power of truth and love. John Heard lives in Melbourne, and has lived with same-sex attraction for a number of years. He is a lawyer and a practising Catholic.

the family is the future

We expect much from priests, but do we give back?

■ With Derek Boylen

ur children love going to Church and this is in no small part due to our parish priest. After Mass, while Karen and I enjoy a coffee with Fr Michael, the boys enjoy juice, chips, chocolate, a bickie or whatever other treat Fr Michael happens to have in his pantry that day. They might have to hold out for an hour but after that there’s food, which makes everything okay. Aside from food though it amazes me how much they take in. A couple of months ago we went south for a weekend. As I was driving I turned down the rear-view mirror to see what was going on in the back seat. I saw Elijah (nearly four years old) sitting in the back raising a Sakata rice cracker above his head and he began “This is my body…” This isn’t the only strange thing our son does. He is also fond of walking around with a bottle of water he calls his Holy Water. He blesses Mummy and Daddy, his brothers, the dog, cat, people who come over to visit, furniture, toys,

etc. The other day he tried to bless the acolyte at Mass during communion while the acolyte was blessing him. Elijah likes to play churches and Isaiah likes to join in. Sometimes they will turn the small heater in our living room into an altar. Other times they will walk around holding a book above their heads singing “Alleluia.” There is no doubt in my mind that besides filling my children with food, our parish priest is having a faith effect on our children. Or maybe the saying is true, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Karen and I value highly the relationship we and our children have with Fr Michael. We can see that it is an overwhelmingly positive relationship and we hope that we are able to support him in small ways too. The parish priest is the shepherd of our local flock. Their job is to support us in our faith journey but it’s a tough job to do all alone. As they try to support our families in their spiritual growth we are also challenged to support them. These are some of the ways that I think we as family can support our parish priest: 1. Pray for him on a regular basis and encourage others to do the same. 2. Tell them when you enjoy their homily or they have done something you really appreciate. 3. Be aware that not everything is in his control. There are diocesan

Joining the family of God: Fr Michael Separovich, parish priest of St Anthony’s, Wanneroo after a baptism.

policies as well as decisions where he may have to keep the reasons confidential. 4. Be kind to the lay people who deal with the day-to-day running of the parish. They make it possible for the priest to deal with the spiritual and sacramental aspects of parish life. 5. Be generous with your time,

talents and skills. Aside from the liturgical elements of the Mass a parish with a budget of $50,000 involves as much work as a business of $500,000 and your parish priest probably does most of it. 6. Remember that everyone needs a break. Be gracious when your parish priest goes on holiday or has their day off.

Photo: Derek Boylen

7. Speak well of them in front of others. 8. Remember that your parish priest is human; they make mistakes, have bad days, get tired and forget sometimes. But, like everyone else they are made in the image and likeness of God, are capable of great things, and Jesus died for them too.

February 2 2005, The Record

Page 7

Catholic Media in Perth

Broadcast TV Sunday, February 5 Eternal Word Television Network 1-2pm on Access 31 (See Panorama page 11 each week)

Win a Gift Pack! From The Record

FM Radio Gate of Heaven: 7.30pm Sundays Radio Fremantle 107.9 FM February 5 (1) The Glory of the Papacy with Dr Timothy O’Donnell “The Primacy Begins.” (2) Catholic Morality and the Catechism with Mgr William Smith “Ten Commandments #6” Continued. (3) Catholicism: The Heart of History with Joanna and James Bogle “Spain, England & America: The Back Legend, True or False?”

All NEW subscribers and those who re-subscribe for 2006 will go into a draw to win a fabulous gift pack valued at over $175 from The Record. YOU COULD WIN A FABULOUS GIFT PACK WHICH INCLUDES:

February 12 (1) Does the Church still teach that? with Fr Shannon Collins, CPM “Failure or Modern Catechesis.” (2) Lord have mercy with Dr Scott Hahn “Confession in the Old Testament.” (3) Search and Rescue with Patrick Madrid “Do it for God, not for victory.” February 19 (1) Saint for the Third Millenium with Fr Charles Conner “Life of St Therese of Lisieux.” (2) Council of Faith II with Fr John Trigilio “Sacram Liturgiam and Inter Oecumenici.” (3) Saints a closer look with Fr Thomas Dubay “What saints are like as human beings.” February 26 (1) Holy Spirit at work in the Church with Fr Andrew Apostoli “Holy Spirit’s missionary activity in the Church.” (2) Last things: In time and eternity with Colin Donovan and Desmond Birch “Religious; An Eschatological Sign.” (3) Ye shall know truth series with Fulton J. Sheen “Birth Prevention.” Donations toward the program may be sent to Gate of Heaven, PO Box 845, Claremont, WA 6910.

Great reading and great viewing for young and old alike! SEE PAGE 12 FOR SUBSCRIPTION DETAILS

Catholic Church TV Australia Program guide: 2 — 28 February Aurora Community Television is available on Foxtel Digital and Austar Digital. Channel 183 Thursday 2 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 10:00am Mass for You At Home Friday 3 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 10:00am Mass for You At Home Saturday 4 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 10:00am Mass for You At Home 2:00pm Talking Families Sunday 5 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Monday 6 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 2:30pm The Mind’s Eye Tuesday 7 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am The Mind’s Eye Wednesday 8 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies

10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Thursday 9 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home Friday 10 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Saturday 11 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 1:30pm The Mind’s Eye Sunday 12 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Monday 13 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 2:30pm This Generation Tuesday 14 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am This Generation Wednesday 15 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home

All times are WA time.

5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Thursday 16 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home Friday 17 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Saturday 18 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 1:30pm This Generation Sunday 19 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Monday 20 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 8:00am Eileen 10:00am Mass for You At Home Tuesday 21 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 1:30pm Eileen

Wednesday 22 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Thursday 23 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home Friday 24 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Saturday 25 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies

10:00am Mass for You At Home 2:00pm Eileen Sunday 26 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 10:30am Octava Dies Monday 27 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 8:00am Project Compassion 10:00am Mass for You At Home Tuesday 28 February 2006 5:00am Mass for You At Home 5:30am Octava Dies 10:00am Mass for You At Home 1:30pm Project Compassion

June 9 2005, The Record

Page 8

The World

Speaking of the love of God Pope’s first encyclical underlines ‘back to basics’ theme of papacy

By the Words Pope Benedict XVI’s ﬁrst encyclical is about 16,000 words. Some key words and the number of times they appear:

■ By John Thavis, CNS

Love

278 Church God 200 101

ope Benedict XVI’s first encyclical underlined the “back to basics” approach of his papacy, taking one of Christianity’s fundamental beliefs and illuminating it with deeper analysis. In its title, Deus Caritas Est or “God Is Love,” and throughout its 71 pages, the encyclical presented the faith in a clear and positive perspective. The core mission of Christianity, it said, is to help people accept God’s love and share it, recognising that true love involves a willingness to make sacrifices. In short, love of God and love of neighbour - that’s a message the Pope believes many people can agree to, if only they are led to think about it. While challenging the contemporary approach to love and sexuality, the Pope avoided the hotbutton doctrinal issues that often dominate discussion on religious affairs: abortion, birth control, gay marriage and divorce. It’s not that Pope Benedict doesn’t care about these issues, but he knows that unless people understand the essentials of the faith these doctrinal teachings will not stick. So instead of fine-tuning the Church’s rules and precepts, the Pope is working on the foundations. Telling people that God loves them is step one. Asking people to consider the implications of that love in their own lives is step two. At the beginning of his encyclical, the Pope said his message is timely today because “the name of God is sometimes associated with vengeance or even a duty of hatred and violence.” The obvious allusion was to terrorism inspired by religious fanaticism. But the Pope’s intended audience here is not really the Muslim world or the political world or even the world of humanitarian organisations: it is primarily the Catholic faithful. Most Catholics who read “God Is Love” will find the text challenging, provocative and insightful, offering reflections on topics they might not expect to find in an encyclical, the highest form of papal teaching. In discussing eros, or sexual love, for example, the Pope confronted head-on the accusation that the Church has been “opposed to the body” and sexual pleasure. He acknowledged that “tendencies of this sort have always existed.” But he argued that eros, and its power to impart supreme happi-

Charity

Eros

s include base words and additional forms such as “charitable.”

On the dotted line: Pope Benedict XVI signs his first encyclical, “Deus Caritas Est” (“God Is Love”), in his private library at the Vatican on January 23. Photo: CNS

ness, has a place in Christianity. It just needs to be balanced with “concern and care for the other.” “Eros tends to rise in ecstasy toward the Divine, to lead us beyond ourselves; yet for this very reason it calls for a path of ascent,

Friedrich Nietzsche, from Rene Descartes to Blessed Mother Teresa - and used them creatively to show the interaction between Christianity and culture through the ages. For example, to illustrate the

off as an outstanding Christian,” the Pope wrote. Thus Christianity was discredited in Julian’s eyes, which led him to revive paganism - but in a way that preserved the one thing that impressed him about Christians,

Most Catholics who read “God Is Love” will find the text challenging, provocative and insightful, offering reflections on topics they might not expect to find in an encyclical, the highest form of papal teaching. renunciation, purification and healing,” he said. In its intellectual sweep, the encyclical reminds readers that the author is Joseph Ratzinger, long considered one of the Church’s most intelligent theologians. He drew on a wide range of sources - ranging from Plato to

impact Christian charity had on society even in its earliest days, he told the story of the emperor, Julian the Apostate, who persecuted Christians, in remarkably sympathetic terms. Julian had witnessed the murder of his family by the emperor, Constantius, “who passed himself

their charitable activity. The Pope seemed willing to look critically at the Church’s record. Reviewing the 19th-century rise of the capitalist system, he said bluntly that “Church leadership was slow to realise that the issue of the just structuring of society needed to be approached

Agape

in a new way.” When “God Is Love” came out, much was made of the fact that the groundwork for the second part of the text, on the Church’s charity operations, began under Pope John Paul II. But this part of the encyclical also carries the strong mark of Pope Benedict, especially where it says that in helping the needy the Church can never be motivated by a political or ideological agenda. In the 2002 book, God and the World, then-Cardinal Ratzinger said Jesus’ instruction to “feed the hungry” or “clothe the naked” means more than upholding fine principles or making a donation. It means being “on the lookout to see where people need me” something that is usually uncomfortable and inconvenient, he said. Thinking about particular cases and not just “mankind as a whole” is what distinguishes Christian love from Marxist policy, he said in his book. That’s a point strongly underlined in the encyclical, too. One interesting section of “God Is Love” will be read by many as an endorsement of the Bush administration’s policy of increased federal funding for faith-based organisations in charitable programs. The Pope argued that the state, instead of trying to provide everything to the needy through its own programs, should support “initiatives arising from the different social forces” - including the Church. In this way, Church agencies “are able to give a Christian quality to the civil agencies, too.” Pope Benedict’s first encyclical was remarkable in a couple of other respects. First, he sent it around for review by several other Vatican offices and theologians, got feedback and then made changes in the text, according to informed sources. The Pope also broke with tradition by talking about the content of the encyclical three times before it was published, in effect scooping himself. That didn’t diminish journalistic interest. When the encyclical was presented at a press conference on January 25, the Vatican press room was standing room only. It was the biggest crowd of reporters assembled for a papal document in many, many -CNS years.

June 9 2005, The Record

Page 9

The World Benedict: the grand lover

Flame of hope

COMMENT ■ By JOHN L. ALLEN JR.

y now, the heart of Benedict XVI’s first encyclical, Deus Caritas Est, is already familiar - that all love, including erotic love, is a gift from God, but it must be “purified” into agape, or self-giving love. Agape flows into service of one’s neighbour, especially the poor and vulnerable, which is the basis for Catholic charitable work. Noted Italian Vatican analyst Orazio Petrosillo said that the encyclical revealed the man once known as il Grande Inquisitore, “the grand inquisitor,” as instead il Grande Innamorato, “the grand lover.” The encyclical, released last Wednesday, consists of two parts: a spiritual meditation on love, followed by reflections on Catholic charitable organisations. In a January 24 audience with members of Cor Unum, the Vatican’s charitable agency, Benedict said that at first blush these two sections may appear to have “little connection with one another,” but said he believes the two topics “can be understood properly only if seen as one.” The heart of the first section is that eros, or human sexual love, must be transformed through “a path of ascent, renunciation, purification and healing” into agape, meaning the complete gift of oneself for another. The second part draws on material previously circulated for a draft encyclical under John Paul II about Church-run charitable works. In it, Benedict argues that charitable works are as essential to the Church’s life as liturgy and the sacraments. While the Church is obligated to work for social justice, the Pope writes, it must never neglect individual acts of charity. Benedict warns Catholic charities to steer clear of “parties and ideologies.” He also said that Catholic charitable groups must work in concert with the Church, and especially the bishops. The Pope also reflects on the relationship between Church and

A priest reads Pope Benedict XVI’s new encyclical in St Peter’s Square at the Vatican on January 25.

state, supporting the autonomy of each. “We do not need a state which regulates and controls everything,” Benedict writes, “but a state which, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity, generously acknowledges and supports initiatives arising from the different social forces and combines spontaneity with closeness to those in need.” Benedict has voiced satisfaction that the encyclical appeared during the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, since, he said, love is a theme that unites Christians across denominational lines. Even apart from policy questions, there’s much to learn about Benedict XVI’s papacy from Deus Caritas Est. First, he will not, as some feared, lead the Catholic Church to collapse in on itself and become preoccupied with its own internal business. One can hardly imagine a theme of more universal human concern than love. Second, while he possesses vast erudition (in the first 20 pages of Deus Caritas Est, he manages to cite Nietzsche, Descartes, and Plato),

the world in brief Roman Rota hurry-up For the good of individuals and the Catholic Church as a whole, marriage tribunals must act as quickly as possible while fully following Church law, Pope Benedict XVI said. “For more than a few of the faithful,” he said, “ecclesiastical sentences in this area, in fact, have an impact on the possibility or not of receiving Communion.” Pope Benedict met on January 28 with members of the Roman Rota, a Church court dealing mainly with marriage cases. A tribunal declaration that a marriage was invalid would allow a divorced and civilly remarried couple to have their union recognised by the Church and, therefore, to receive Communion. Pope Benedict said the reason why so many bishops at

Benedict expresses himself as a pastor. He treats a core theme of Christian faith, and for the most part uses terms that don’t require a licence in systematic theology to grasp. While history will remember John Paul II as a great evangelist, Benedict XVI may go down as the most classic example of a “teaching Pope” in modern times. Third, for all the talk about Benedict as an Augustinian pessimist, he actually believes there are still people in the world who can be influenced by unadorned argument, shorn of theatricality or grand symbolism. In its own way, it’s a remarkably optimistic stance. Fourth, Benedict grasps the old bit of wisdom about governing the Catholic Church expressed by John XXIII, who once said, “I have to be Pope both of those with their foot on the gas, and those with their foot on the brake.” Deus Caritas Est reflects an obvious concern for balance. He warns Catholic charitable groups they must not forget about Christ, yet understands there are times when this faith must go unspoken, so charity workers

the October synod on the Eucharist raised questions about tribunals and annulment procedures was precisely because receiving the Eucharist is so important.

Wait and see in Palestine Following their initial shock, many Palestinian Christians are taking a “wait and see” approach to the January 25 Hamas election victory, although some young Christians have expressed concern about the future. “I was shocked,” said Rami Giacaman, 19, a Catholic student at Bethlehem University whose family owns a souvenir shop on Manger Square in Bethlehem, West Bank. “I didn’t imagine that Hamas would win. I am just a little bit concerned about things changing that may hurt us.” Suheir, 24, a Catholic owner of a high-end women’s clothing bou-

Photo: CNS

don’t give the appearance of “proselytism”; he stresses the “vertical dimension” of prayer and worship, yet also writes that “a Eucharist which does not pass over into the concrete practice of love is intrinsically fragmented.” Finally, the encyclical shows that Benedict’s determination not to impose his personality upon the papacy will sometimes mean we don’t get what some consider the “real” Ratzinger. One senior Vatican official, for example, told me that he felt Deus Caritas Est could have been a courageous encyclical on sexual morality, but the Pope’s collegial willingness to pick up the threads of a pre-existing document on charity prevented that. The reaction is analogous to frustrations that the Pope is not moving fast enough to “shake up” the Curia, to reverse “business-as-usual” in the appointment of bishops, or to bring dissenting forces into line. For good or ill, his approach seems to be patient, gradual, and articulated in a “still, small voice” rather than bellowed from the rooftops. -National Catholic Reporter

tique in the Bethlehem area, who preferred not to have her last name used or the exact location of her store revealed, said she hopes Hamas will not venture into the social sphere of Palestinian life. She said she is concerned that the new ruling party could try to implement dress and social codes based on Islamic law. “I will never cover myself; it is simply impossible for me to do that. If they (impose) such rules for girls, we won’t accept that,” said Suheir.

Priests freed in China Two underground Church priests, officials of Wenzhou Diocese in eastern China, were freed in mid-January after being detained for two and a half months. UCA News, an Asian Church news agency based in Thailand, reported on January 27 that Father Shao

“God is Love.” What great gratitude we felt for Pope Benedict XVI from the moment that the title of his first encyclical was announced! He enkindled in us the flame of hope - the hope that the great announcement, “God is Love,” that the word “love” brought back to its “original splendour,” may overflow to infinity, like a stone that is thrown into the water and causes wider and wider circles. Yes, love is inscribed in the very nature of the Church, as the Pope writes. To the rich heritage of Church history new charisms have been added, brought about by the Holy Spirit in recent decades. The message - “God is Love! God loves you just as you are!” - has been passed from person to person, on the strength of personal testimonies, transforming the lives of millions of people. For us, it was a light that shone out in the darkest hour of history, during the Second World War, illuminating the whole Gospel, making us discover that Jesus was not afraid of pronouncing the word “love.” Actually, we understood that it is love itself which is the heart of his message, and, yes, “the primordial creative power that moves the universe,” moving our own little personal histories as well as the great history of the world. I am certain that the encyclical of the Pope will arouse a spontaneous echo from the entire Church. If living love is not limited to helping our neighbour concretely, but also urges us to “communicate to others the love of God that we ourselves have received,” what will emerge is the great wealth of that love that is often lived heroically, in silence, within the family, in governments and factories, in universities and neighbourhoods, in the most depressed areas of the world, among those whose face reflects the very face of the God-Man himself who cries out the abandonment by his father. In this way, we will make “visible in some way the living God” and his action in our times, as is the hope of Benedict XVI. And God, who is rediscovered as love, will attract the whole world. - Chiara Lubich, founder of the Focolare movement.

Zhumin, 44, vicar general of the diocese, and Father Paul Jiang Sunian, 36, diocesan chancellor, were released on January 11 and 13, respectively. Their diocese is based in Wenzhou, in China’s Zhejiang province. After his release, Father Shao was rushed to a hospital for kidney treatment. A source told UCA News on January 25 that he was unlikely to be discharged before January 29, the beginning of the lunar new year. Father Jiang underwent a medical checkup and is said to be in good health. Before Christmas, he staged a three-day hunger strike to demand that Mass vessels, confiscated when he was detained, be returned to him so he could celebrate Christmas Mass. The vessels have not been returned, the source said. Public security officers arrested the priests separately on October 27, hours after they celebrated Mass to close the Year of the Eucharist. -CNS

February 2 2006, The Record

Page 10

Campers do it the Bosco way Kelmscott parishioner Graham Maher was at an annual camp for young Salesians. Participants had a week of fun and recreation, and found that they were part of a larger family…

t was that time of the year again - time for the annual WA Young Salesian summer camp held at Nanga Bush Camp Dwellingup for 6 days from January 8-13. With well over 50 campers aged from 12 to 15, experienced leaders, recruits in training and adult support, the camp was sure to be a success. We began our journey like any other, departing by bus to our destination. But what was still to come was what sets this camp apart from other. Over the six days campers came to see each other as part of a bigger family – the Don Bosco family.

Many began the camp shy and reserved, but as the days went by a transformation took place. An assortment of games, experiences, team building exercises and activities designed to promote self esteem, confidence and belonging helped bring out the strengths of everyone. The camp integrates the mission of Don Bosco: to cater to youth by blending Christian living via the two masses held during the week (presided over by Fathers Clayton and Sam) with fun, laughter and games galore. But the way to a camper’s heart is through their stomach. The food prepared by Stella, our camp supercook and coordinator, along with her band of adult support was superb. The camp may be over but strong friendships were forged.And the fun didn’t end when the camp concluded. Over the year there will be several camp reunions, primarily over school holidays, to enable campers to catch up with each other and keep the flame burning bright.

Ready for more: Two participants surface for air before going back into the water to try for a bigger splash on the Salesian Camp.

It’s 350 years for class of 1956!

New Maranatha courses ready he Maranatha Institute has finalised its proT gram for 2006, with the first adult faith education courses beginning on February 21 and 24. Coordinator Patsy Godwin said the first term units this year are: ■ Understanding the Sacraments, with Jan O’Connor, which gives scriptural, historical and theological perspectives on the seven sacraments. The six-week course highlights the importance of the sacraments in the spiritual journey of Catholics. It is a new course and meets the Catechist Service requirements in theology. Time, 9.30am – noon, Tuesdays, starting February 21. Cost $40 ■ From Eden to the Promised Land: a journey through the Old Testament, with Stephanie Woods. The seven-week course will examine the format, major themes and characters of the Old Testament, shedding light on the impact of scripture on life and liturgy. It meets the Catechist Service requirements in scripture, is presented 1pm - 3pm on Tuesdays and costs $45. ■ The Gospel of Mark, with Sr Shelley Barlow RNDM. Mark’s Gospel is read during the current liturgical year (B). The course explores the spirituality of Mark, sets the Sunday readings in context, and shows this Gospel’s relevance today as a call to robust discipleship. A seven-week

course costing $45, it begins on Friday February 24 and runs 9.30am – noon. The course meets the Catechist Service requirements in scripture. Enquiries and enrolments can be made at the Maranatha Institute, 50 Ruislip St, Leederville, phone 9212 9311, fax 9212 9383, or email maranatha@ceo.wa.edu.au. Second term will begin on May 2 with courses on death and dying (Sr Elizabeth Murray SGS), social justice (Terry Quinn) and prayer and the spiritual journey (Sandra Dillon). Term 3 begins on July 25 with courses on women mystics (Stephanie Woods), non-violent conflict (Brendan McKeague) and praying the Psalms (Sr Shelley Barlow). The final term begins on October 17 with courses on Catholic moral teaching (Fr Joe Parkinson) and ministry to those who grieve (Gerry Smith). More detail about the courses is available in a booklet sent to all parishes this week. The Institute has also issued a booklet that details venues for retreats or seminars and gives information about retreats already programmed for 2006. The Institute is the focal point for adult faith education in the Archdiocese and offers support to parishes in this field.

PANORAMA Sunday February 5 DIVINE MERCY Fr Douglas Hoare and the Santa Clara Parish community welcome anyone from surrounding parishes and beyond to the Santa Clara Church crn of Coolgardie and Pollock Streets, Bentley, on the first Sunday of each month for devotions in honour of The Divine Mercy. The afternoon commences with the 3 o’clock prayer, followed by the Divine Mercy Chaplet, Reflection, and concludes with Benediction.

Sunday February 5 ETERNAL WORD TELEVISION NETWORK 1  2 PM ON ACCESS 31: The Eighth Commandment, You shall not bear a False Witness against your Neighbour / Fr John Corapi [Catechism of the Catholic Church] Air time is very costly, and funds are running low. We cannot continue to keep these great programs on Access 31 without your help. EWTN is a powerful force for good in a culture hostile to Christian principles

■ By Jamie O’Brien

A combined total of 350 years for seven St John of God Sisters of the Sacred Heart, was the reason for celebration at Holy Family Parish Como on Sunday January 22. Sisters Patricia Carr, Kathleen Dawe, Gemma Scott, Denise Casey, Rita Kelly,

a roundup of events in the archdiocese

and family values. Please help to sustain a moral voice in Perth by sending a donation to The Rosary Christian Tutorial Association, Postal address: PO Box 1270, Booragoon 6954. Enquiries: 9330 1170

Holy Rosary and Reconciliation. Sermon: With visiting priest in attendance, homily to be advised followed by Divine Mercy prayers and Benediction. Enq: John 9457 7771 or Linda 9275 6608.

Saturday February 4 DAY WITH MARY

Friday February 10 PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND

St Bernadette Church, Cnr Leeder and Jugan Streets, Glendalough. 9am – 5pm. A video on Fatima will be shown at 9am. A day of prayer and instruction based upon the messages of Fatima. Includes Sacrament of Penance, Holy Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Sermons, Rosaries, Procession of the Blessed Sacrament and Stations of the Cross. Please BYO. Enq: Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate 9250 8286. Next “Day with Mary” 4 March 2006, is at St Anne’s Church Bindoon. Bus services – contact Nita on 9367 1366.

You are invited to an information night at the John Paul Parish Centre, Willetton on Friday at 7.30pm. This trip will be for two weeks at the end of April and beginning of May.

Sunday February 5 DIVINE MERCY

Sunday February 12 FEAST OF OUR LADY OF LOURDES WORLD DAY OF THE SICK

An afternoon with Jesus and Mary at St Mary’s Cathedral, Victoria Square, Perth at 1.30pm. Program:

Edith Prince and Margaret Keane each celebrated 50 years of service at a Mass concelebrated by Bishops Justin Bianchini and Don Sproxton. The Sisters had also recently returned from a trip to Sydney where they joined together with 35 others of the 47 original St John of God of the Sacred Heart sisters from around Australia who also made their first profession on January 6 1956.

Saturday February 11 CANDLE LIGHT VIGIL The Candle Light Rosary vigil will be held at: parish of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rockingham. To celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. Townsend Rd, Rockingham after the 7pm Mass on Saturday.

St Catherine’s Gingin. Programme: 12noon BYO

lunch. 1-2.00 pm Exposition and Benediction. 2.00 pm Procession, Holy Rosary and blessing of the sick. 3.00 pm Holy Mass at the Grotto and guest speaker. Afternoon tea provided. For more details phone Sheila 9575 4023 or Fr Paul 9571 1839.

Tuesday February 14 CARITAS AUSTRALIA  PROJECT COMPASSION 2006 Invites Parish Representatives/Speakers to a Commissioning Seminar Where: Seminar Room 40A Mary Street, Highgate: Entry to car park from Harold Street. Morning: 9.30 – 11.30 (includes Morning Tea) or Evening: 6.30 – 8.30 (includes Light refreshments) RSVP Tues 7th Feb Tel: 9422 7925 Email: perth@caritas.org.au

Friday February 14 ST THOMAS THE APOSTLE MONICA AND AUGUSTINE PRAYER GROUP If you are concerned that your adult sons & daughters have lapsed from the faith you are invited to attend. Meeting Tuesday February 14 at 7.30pm.

February 2 2006, The Record

Page 11

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In loving memory of my darling Mother, who departed this life on February 3, 1985, always so wonderfully good and loving to us, and so caring for all people. May God be with you always, my Little Irish Mother, and with dear Pappa too. Forever in my heart and prayers. May they rest in peace. Moira.

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■ USFOROZ, LYNWOOD Cards and liturgy booklets with photo scanned. Choose from a range of pictures and prayers or bring your own. Talk to Keith on 0410 651 900 or Catholics Corner.

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Classifieds Phone Carole 9227 7080 or a/h: 9227 7778 (Deadline 12pm Tuesdays)

OFFICIAL DIARY FEBRUARY 3

Mass for Year 12s, Trinity College - Bishop Sproxton

Mass to celebrate 50th Anniversary of Sacred Heart Church, Karragullen - Archbishop Hickey 50th Anniversary of Profession of Sr Roma RSM, Leederville - Archbishop Hickey Mass to celebrate Golden Wedding Anniversary of Fr and Mrs Beyer - Bishop Sproxton

Visit of Archbishop Kiet to NDA - Archbishop Hickey School Commissioning Masses: Queens Park - Archbishop Hickey Willetton - Bishop Sproxton Greenmount - Fr Brian O’Loughlin VG Whitford - Mgr Michael Keating

Parents are invited to bring their bible and rosary beads. There will be a period of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament and the evening will conclude with a cup of tea or coffee at 9pm. RSVP to Fr Brian O’Loughlin on 9384 0598 or email claremont@perthcatholic.org.au

Thursday February 16 HEALING MASS A Healing Mass in honour of St Peregrine, patron of Cancer sufferers and helper of all in need, will be held at the Church of SS John and Paul, Pinetree Gully Rd., (off South St) Willetton, on Thursday, at 7 pm. There will be Veneration of the Relic and Anointing of the Sick. For further information contact Noreen Monaghan on 9498 7727.

Friday February 17 CATHOLIC FAITH RENEWAL  PRAISE AND WORSHIP On Friday at 7.30pm at St John and Paul’s Church, Pinetree Gully Road, Willetton, there will be a Praise and Worship evening followed by Holy Mass. A talk will be given by Fr Greg Donovan titled “I am who I am – Who is God to you?: There will be light refreshments after Holy Mass. You are all welcome to attend and we encourage you to bring your family and friends to this evening of fellowship. We look forward to seeing you there. Enq: Rita 9272 1764, Rose 0403 30 0720 or Gertrude 043 323 1305.

Friday February 24 HEALING FIRE BURNING LOVE Come and experience the healing power of Jesus through the Word and sacraments with Father Joseph Tran in the celebration of the Mass and to follow praise and workshop with healing prayer. Friday 7.30pm – 9pm Our Lady of the Missions Catholic Church, 270 Camberwarra Drive, Craigie. Every last Friday of the month thereafter. For more information please contact Jenni Young 0404 389 679.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Holy Trinity Church, 8 Burnett Street, Embleton. Daily Monday to Thursday 8.30am Holy Mass. 9am – 10am Adoration. Every Thursday night 11pm to midnight Adoration. Every Friday 8.30am Holy Mass followed by Benediction. Adoration continues till 6pm. Every Saturday 8.30am Holy Mass. 9am – 9.15am Adoration. Every Monday Divine Mercy Chaplet after Holy Mass. Enq: 9721 5528.

PERPETUAL HELP NOVENA Every Saturday 4.30pm - 5pm at Redemptorist Monastery Church 190 Vincent Street, North Perth.

REDEMPTORIST RETREAT HOUSE 190 Vincent Street, North Perth. Bookings now open for 2006 - 2007. Manageress: Mrs Janice Broderick. Fax/Phone (08) 9328 9736.

GRAND RAFFLE DRAW RESULTS Result of St Emilie’s Parish Grand Raffle Draw are: Ticket numbers: 1st, 1045, 2nd 1820, 3rd 0318, 4th – 10th 1881, 1168, 0488, 1923, 0925, 0740, 0614. Congratulations to all those with the winning tickets.

CROSS ROADS COMMUNITY Term 1 for: Family & Friends Support Groups of Substance Abusers are on Wednesdays 7–9pm, Substance Abusers Support Groups are on Tuesdays 5.30 to 7.30pm & Fridays All day Group for Substance Abusers is from 9.30am to 2pm including Healing Mass on Friday’s @ 12.30pm during term. Ladies Groups are on Tuesday’s 11am to 1.30pm. Rosary is from Tuesday to Thursday 12.30 to 1pm.

BULLSBROOK SHRINE SUNDAY MASS PROGRAM 2pm every Sunday Pilgrim Mass is celebrated with Holy Rosary and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at the Shrine of Virgin of the Revelation, 36 Chittering Rd. Bullsbrook. Reconciliation is available in Italian and English before every celebration. A Monthly Pilgrimage is held on the last Sunday of the month in honour of the Virgin of the Revelation. Anointing of the sick is administered for spiritual and physical healing during Holy Mass every second Sunday of the month. The side entrance to the Church and the Shrine are open daily between 9am and 5pm for private prayer. For all enquiries contact SACRI 9447 3292.

CATHOLIC BIBLE COLLEGE Enrolments are now open for fulltime and parttime study at Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation. Orientation commences 13 Feb, Term 1 commences Monday 20 Feb. Day courses (9.30 -12.30): Bible Timeline (Mon); Saints of God/ Actions of the Holy Spirit (Tues); Life Skills (Thurs); Pastoral Ministry 1 (Thurs); Gospel of Matthew (Fri). Night Courses: Finding New Life in the Spirit (Mario Borg, Wed); Apologetics (Thurs, Paul Kelly); Bible Timeline (Thurs, Jane Borg). Contact Jane Borg 9202 6859; 0401 692690. Website: www.acts2come. disciplesofjesus.org

TUESDAYS WEEKLY PRAYER MEETING 7pm at St Mary’s Cathedral Parish Centre, 450 Hay Street, Perth, WA. Take time to pray and be united with Our Lord and Our Lady in prayer with

School Commissioning Masses: Fremantle - Archbishop Hickey North Perth - Bishop Sproxton Leederville - Fr Brian O’Loughlin VG Morley - Mgr Michael Keating

Council of Priests’ Meeting, Glendalough

Opening Mass and blessing of buildings, Corpus Christi College - Bishop Sproxton

14-16

Central Commission and Media Launch of ACBC Pastoral Letter, Sydney - Archbishop Hickey

others. Appreciate more deeply the heritage of the Faith. Overcome the burdens in life with the Rosary, Meditation, Scripture, praise in song, and friendship over refreshments. Come! Join us! Mary’s Companion Wayfarers of Jesus the Way Prayer Group. Experience personal healing in prayer.

PERPETUAL ADORATION AT ST BERNADETTE’S Adoration: Chapel open all day and all night. All welcome, 49 Jugan St, Glendalough, just north of the city. Masses every night at 5.45pm Monday to Friday, 6.30pm, Saturday and the last Sunday Mass in Perth is at 7pm.

ALL SAINTS CHAPEL

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Lending Library of a thousand books, videos, cassettes at your service. Tel: 9325 2009. www.allsaintschapel.com

Holy Family Church, Alcock Street, Maddington. Every Friday 8.30 am Holy Mass followed by Blessed Sacrament Adoration till 12 noon. Every first Friday of the month, anointing of the sick during Mass. Enq. 9398 6350.

SCHOENSTATT FAMILY MOVEMENT: MONTHLY DEVOTIONS An international group focussed on family faith development through dedication to our Blessed Mother. Monthly devotions at the Armadale shrine on the first Sunday at or after the 18th day of the month at 3pm. Next event: February 19. 9 Talus Drive Armadale. Enq Sisters of Mary 9399 2349 or Peter de San Miguel 0407 242 707 www.schoenstatt.org.au

INDONESIAN MASS Every Sunday at 11.30am at St Benedict’s church Alness St, Applecross. Further info www.waicc.org. au.

PERPETUAL ADORATION Christ the King, Lefroy Rd, Beaconsfield. Enq Joe Migro 9430 7937, A/H 0419 403 100. Adoration also at Sacred Heart, 64 Mary St Highgate, St Anne’s, 77 Hehir St Belmont. Bassendean, 19 Hamilton St and Mirrabooka, 37 Changton Wy.

THE DIVINE MERCY APOSTOLATE St Mary’s Cathedral, Victoria Square, Perth – each first Sunday of the month from 1.30pm to 3.15pm with a different priest each month. St Francis Xavier Church, 25 Windsor Street, East Perth - each Saturday from 2.30pm to 3.30pm, main celebrant Fr Marcellinus Meilak, OFM. Saints John and Paul Church, Pinetree Gully Drive, Willeton - each Wednesday from 4pm to 5pm. All Enq John 9457 7771.

ST CLARE’S SCHOOL, SISTERS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD A short history of St Clare’s School is being prepared to celebrate 50 years of its work in WA. Any past students, staff, families or others associated with the school - from its time at Leederville, at North Perth, at East Perth or at Wembley - are invited to contact us with photographs, or memories. Privacy will be protected, in accordance with your wishes. Please contact Nancy Paterson on 0417 927 126, (email npaters@yahoo.com.au) or St Clare’s School, PO Box 21 & 23 Carlisle North 6161. Tel: 9470 5711.

SUNDAY CHINESE MASS The Perth Chinese Catholic Community invite you to join in at St Brigid’s Church, 211 Aberdeen St (Cnr of Aberdeen and Fitzgerald) Northbridge. Celebrant Rev Fr Dominic Su SDS. Mass starts 4.30pm every Sunday. Enq Augustine 9310 4532, Mr Lee 9310 9197, Peter 9310 1789.

CONFRATERNITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT The Confraternity of the Holy Spirit has been sanctioned in the Perth Archdiocese, our aim is to make the Holy Spirit known and loved, and to develop awareness of His presence in our lives. If you would like more information please call WA Coordinator Frank Pimm on 9304 5190.

MAKE POVERTY HISTORY WALKERS MPH walkers - walking across Perth Outdoors wearing the White band is a message that we want poverty to be stopped. For info on the walk contact Teresa at tgrundy@westnet.com.au or tel. 9458 4084. For info on the worldwide campaign and what is happening this week in Perth look at www. makepovertyhistory.com.au.

Please Note The Record reserves the right to decline or modify any advertisment it considers improper or not in unison with the general display of the paper.

February 2 2005, The Record

Page 12

The Last Word Aussies great sportsmen - but great dads? Fathers in Families, the policy document currently being serialised in The Record, aims at supporting all dads without distinction to fulfil their role as effective fathers

ployment has two main socio-economic impacts on fatherhood. • Fathers, and therefore families, are put under severe pressures when dads are unemployed or under-employed. • Many men in low socio-economic circumstances will not marry and will not have children.

The Social Problem One of the greatest challenges facing our nation is the social problems caused as a result of fatherlessness. Australia’s current birth rate of 1 .75 births per female has fallen below the minimum population replacement rate of 2.1 births. Fatherlessness is a direct factor in this decline. The problem of fatherlessness has been estimated to cost Australia over $13 billion per year. In his article The Facts on Fatherlessness Bill Muehlenberg has identified the following social and psychological problems which fatherless children face. • Poverty • Lower educational performance • Increased crime • Increased drug abuse • Increased sexual problems • Increased mental health problems • Increased physical and sexual abuse of children While not every child who grows up in a fatherless situation will experience all or any of these problems, there is a much greater statistical likelihood that he or she would. Studies into the potential impact

All levels of government need to further address this problem. This can be achieved by removing any inequalities in current male/female employment opportunities and policies that may occur through affirmative action. The best person for the job should be given the employment opportunity regardless of gender.

of growing up without a father in the United States have produced the following statistics in relation to boys. Boys from a fatherless home are: • more likely to commit suicide; • more likely to commit rape; • more likely to commit violent crime; • more likely to drop out of high school; • more likely to abuse chemicals;

• more likely to end up in a stateoperated institution; • more likely to end up in prison. The Socio-Economic Problem While affirmative action programs have helped women overcome past unemployment problems, there is now a growing crisis in male unemployment. This is particularly prevalent among young and middle-aged men. Male unem-

A Challenge to Fathers The National Fathering Forum calls on men everywhere to offer their commitment to the ideals of fatherhood. We exhort fathers to make their primary goal in life the care and nurture of their families. We applaud the fathers of our nation who are caring for their families and urge them to become ‘the best dads in the world’ for the sake of their children. The National Fathering Forum also encourages fathers who are our political, civic, community and church leaders and all those in the public arena to work towards becoming fathers of excellence. We acknowledge that we need a change in some of our laws and an increased government focus on

fathers and families as contained in this Twelve Point Plan. Through a systematic sporting development program, Australia has produced some of the best sportsmen and women in the world. We have the best sportsmen in the world, why not the best fathers? Editor’s note: ” The Twelve Point Plan will appear in forthcoming editions of The Record. The comprehensive policy document being serialised here which contains the Plan makes an ideal resource for parents, families, schools and advocates of the family in our society. See details below.

Fathers in Families is available from The Record. Tel: (08) 9227 7080. Cost $5+postage. For further information on the Fatherhood Foundation phone (02) 4272 6677 or go to www.fathersonline.org

Discover Theology of the Body & Enemy Aliens Theology of the body made simple By Anthony Percy

Sex and the Sacred City Meditations on the theology of the body By Steven Kellmeyer

This book will introduce you to the basic experiences and concepts taught by Pope John Paul II between 1979 and 1984. It will give you the confidence to know who you are and to speak the truth in love.

In his theology of the body, Pope John Paul II gave humanity a masterpiece for understanding our true nature and dignity as sexual beings made in the image and likeness of God. Sex and the Sacred City is a marvellous tool for understanding John Paul II’s teaching. $15 plus postage

$16 plus postage

Enemy Aliens The internment of Italian Migrants in Australia during the Second World War Four essays which tell the plight of Italian migrants in Australia during the Second World War and of those who worked in their defence. $20 plus postage

Contact Carole at The Record on (08) 9227 7080 or via cathrec@iinet.net.au

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