Your news from across the Archdiocese of Perth www.therecord.com.au
19 NOVEMBER 2015
Edition #58
A man waves a French flag as several hundred people gather to observe a minute of silence in Lyon, France, on November 16. PHOTO: CNS/ROBERT PRATTA
Archbishop invites Perth Catholic Community to Pray for Paris
By Marco Ceccarelli
ARCHBISHOP Timothy Costelloe has this week asked all parishes and other Catholic communities in the Archdiocese of Perth to unite in prayer for the victims of the terrorist attacks in Paris, which took place on Friday 13 November. Extremist militant group ISIS have since claimed responsibility for the seven co-ordinated attacks which have caused the death of some 129 people and left more than 400 wounded. The attack on the Bataclan concert venue in Boulevard Voltaire resulted in the most casualties. At least 89 people lost their lives when blackclad gunmen wielding assaultrifles and wearing suicide vests stormed the building.
Other targets included locations outside Paris’ Stade de France, as well as innercity bars and restaurants, such as the Petit Cambodge Cambodian restaurant, Le Carillon Bar, Casa Nostra pizzeria and La Belle Equipe Bar. The Archbishop wrote to clergy across the Archdiocese this week, encouraging them to pray for the gift of peace and harmony. “As the full extent of these horrors begins to emerge more clearly, and as deep concern begins to be expressed around the world concerning the implications of these attacks for all of us, I would ask that you continue to invite your people to pray for the victims and their families and friends. “I also ask that you pray for the gift of peace and harmony
Archbishop Timothy Costelloe has this week asked all parishes and other Catholic communities in the Archdiocese of Perth to unite in prayer for the victims of the terrorist attacks in Paris. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
which we need so much but which proves to be so elusive, both here in our own country and all around the world,” the Archbishop said. “We will soon celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the Universal King: may his
kingdom come – ‘a kingdom of truth and life, a kingdom of holiness and grace, a kingdom of justice, love and peace’ (Preface of Christ the King).” Full Text available at
www.therecord.com.au 1
Catholic Outreach set to
expand pastoral care programs By Marco Ceccarelli
CATHOLIC OUTREACH’S pastoral care programs are gaining momentum in Perth as Director Peter Mc Minn and Outreach Officer Betty Thompson introduce the benefits of the LifeLink-sponsored agency to more parishes within the Archdiocese. With 25 parishes already endorsing Catholic Outreach,
St Emilie de Vialar in Canning Vale became the latest parish seeking to establish a program that enables volunteers to provide short-term emergency care for people in need within the community. During an information evening held on 20 October, aimed at recruiting coordinators and volunteers, Mr Mc Minn introduced to a revamped St Emilie’s Parish
Council and interested parishioners the aims and objectives of Catholic Outreach. “Within a parish, there are often many jobs that cannot all be done by parish priests alone,” Mr Mc Minn said. “Jobs, such as offering emergency transport to someone who needs to be taken to the hospital, to the doctor or simply to do the shopping; or preparing a meal for a person who
cannot cook for themselves at a specific moment in time: this is where the Catholic Outreach programs can help,” he added. Mr Mc Minn went on to explain that other jobs such as gardening, home help, visiting and bereavement support also fall under the banner of “practical support” offered by the volunteers who adhere to the Catholic Outreach structure. He also informed attend-
St Emilie de Vialar Canning Vale Parish Priest, Fr Chien Nguyen; Catholic Outreach Officer Betty Thompson; assistant priest, Fr Anibal Leite da Cunha and Catholic Outreach Director Peter Mc Minn discuss the last issue of the LifeLink newsletter, which prominently featured Catholic Outreach as one of LifeLink’s supported agencies. PHOTO: MARCO CECCARELLI
ees that, if a particular job is not suited to the capacity of volunteers, it can be referred to other Archdiocesan or government agencies. “Coordinators assess a particular situation, look at the contact list and go to a volunteer to check for availability. If, for example, a coordinator sees that a job is more suited for the St Vincent de Paul Society, he or she can refer a person to that agency,” he said. Catholic Outreach care programs are managed on a daily basis by a small number, of
approximately six people, of coordinators whose role is to correspond with volunteers about the various jobs that require attention. Mr Mc Minn emphasised that volunteering does not have to be a life-long commitment, as parishioners are invited annually or every two years to recommit to, or withdraw from, the care program. “If you say you are happy to do an emergency meal, it does not mean that every Friday night you will be cooking a meal. It could be two to three
times a year. To introduce a Pastoral Care Program in your parish and find out more about Catholic Outreach, visit www. catholicoutreach.org.au. LifeLink agencies collectively touch the lives of more than 31,000 people in need each year through the provision of accommodation, food, clothing, financial assistance with electricity and gas accounts, and the protection of women and children escaping domestic violence and abuse. In this year’s Christmas
LifeLink Ap peal , the Archbishop is setting a target of $700,000 so as to help fund agencies in being able to meet the needs of those who knock on the doors of Archdiocesan agencies. The 2015 LifeLink Christmas Appeal will be officially launched in parishes on 14 and 15 November. To donate to LifeLink, go to www.lifelink.com.au. Full Text available at
www.therecord.com.au 2
Keeping our eyes firmly fixed on the Good Shepherd is only way forward: Archbishop Costelloe By Jamie O’Brien
ARCHBISHOP Timot hy Costelloe has this month encouraged newly commissioned catechists, saying that keeping our eyes firmly fixed on the Good Shepherd is the only way forward as a community, listening carefully for His word, waiting patiently for His guidance and following in His footsteps. The Archbishop made t he comment s dur ing his homily at the 2015 Catechists’ Thanksgiving and Commissioning Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral on Thursday, 5 November and continued by saying that, as we listen to Jesus [in tonight’s Gospel], we gain a rich insight into His mind and heart. The occasion was attended by more than 450 people, accompanied by numerous priests and clergy who assist the lay faithful in their service and dedication to preaching the Gospel. “He wants us to understand that, in the image of this shepherd, we find a reflection of the mystery of God. Just like the shepherd, God Himself goes in search of the strays and the lost ones and carries them back to the safety of the flock.” Catechist Services Leader Pina Ford, from the Catholic Education Office of Western Australia, gave the initial introduction for the occasion, explaining that the occasion was a shared endeavour between two groups: catechists supported by the Personal Advocacy Service
Archbishop Timothy Costelloe has recently encouraged newly commissioned catechists, saying that keeping our eyes firmly fixed on the Good Shepherd is the only way forward as a community, listening carefully for His word. PHOTO: RON TAN
who minister to adults with intellectual disabilities, and catechists supported by the Catechist Service, who share their faith with children in parish-based religious education programs. “Our partnerships arise from the common call of catechists to echo the word,” said Dr Ford. “This is a work done in a special way by our priests and with their support – and I welcome you with much gratitude,” she said. The Archbishop then commenced the commissioning of 32 candidates, including 15 who will work with Personal Advocacy Service, each of whom has completed the designated training and formation for their ministry. A further 42 people were also commissioned with Provisional Accreditation,
with the view to completing further studies. Ten were also congratulated on the completion of Certificate One in Ongoing Faith Formation, while another five had completed Certificate Two. The highlight of the occasion was the awarding of the Archbishop’s Award and Papal Blessings to 52 catechists who had made a significant contribution through many years of service – awards made once every four years. Continuing his homily for the occasion, the Archbishop reflected on the image of the Good Shepherd in the Gospel of the night: “Jesus begins by saying to His listeners, “who among you, having a hundred sheep and losing one, does not leave the ninety-nine in the
wilderness and go in search of the lost one?” “What Jesus is trying to say is that the compassion of God for the lost goes beyond all the bounds of human calculation. “There is no weighing up of the risks, or of the advantages or otherwise, of the decision to go in search of the one who is lost. In God’s mind, if we can put it that way, there is no cost too great, and no risk not worth taking, to bring someone home. The question for us, in the light of this parable, is this: do I really believe that this is how God thinks of me when I fail, or when I sin, or when I get hopelessly lost? Do I really believe that God loves me this much?” Full Text available at
www.therecord.com.au 3
It’s ‘Gatt’ time of year again! - Helpline to open all year round
The “Gattline”, as it has become known, is a free and confidential counselling and referral service, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from 1 to 31 December, which Fr Gatt began in 1991. PHOTO: LIBRARY
By Mark Reidy
MOTHER THERESA once said that loneliness is the poverty of the western world and Perth priest, Father Michael Gatt, is in full agreement, which is why he will be extending his annual Christmas Helpline to run year-long. The “Gattline”, as it has become known, is a free and confidential counselling and referral service, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week from 1 to 31 December, which Fr Gatt began in 1991. The service continued throughout his time as parish priest of St Kieran’s in
Osborne Park from 2000 until his retirement in June this year, and he has no intention of stopping the Helpline which has supported so many over the past 24 years. This is because “retirement” is not a word in the vocabulary of this effervescent cleric, and he is now more passionate than ever to provide a listening ear to those who are lonely and isolated. “The number of callers over the Christmas period has grown steadily over the years,” Fr Gatt told the eRecord. “I think this is because we are living in a society that is expanding, but support for
individuals within it is not.” Fr Gatt is no longer associated with a particular parish, but has come to recognise the impact the Helpline has had for so many and has decided to not only continue the service this Christmas, but to provide it all year around. “The month of December has always been the focus of the Helpline, because this can be a particularly difficult period for people without family or support”, he reflected. “But I also realise that many people are also looking for someone to listen and talk to all year round.” Fr Gatt, along with his team of helpers, has dealt
with many difficult issues over the years, ranging from loneliness to domestic violence to threats of suicide and, with 110 calls during the Christmas period last year, he is once again preparing for a month of continuous ringing, both during the day and night. Calls usually come from people living locally, but have also been received from interstate and even overseas. Fr Gatt will often follow up with callers and, when necessary, will refer them to other services which can provide professional and ongoing assistance. “Many people were concerned that the Helpline would stop once I finished at St Kieran’s, but I know it is something I must continue to do,” Fr Gatt shared. “People need to know that there is always someone to turn to in times of difficulty, crisis or despair.” The Helpline is open 1-31 December and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact number is (08) 9440 5379 (please note this is a different number from last year). People can also seek support by emailing Fr Gatt at gattline@bigpond.com. More information can be found at www.michaelgatt.net.
Full Text available at
www.therecord.com.au
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PANORAMA
What’s happening around the Archdiocese
SUNDAYS, 22 NOVEMBER DARK NIGHTS: FOR AN ELITE OR FOR EVERYONE? Dark Night of the Soul? “That’s out of my league” – perhaps a reaction of many people, but should it be? This course explores how authors of today and yesterday help us make sense of this mysterious process where, in being led by a loving God in ‘luminous darkness’, we find our true selves. Held at the Newman Siena Centre, 33 Williamstown Rd, Doubleview, Sundays 15 and 22 November, 2-4pm. Cost: 2 sessions $10. Presented by Fr Tom Ryan SM (live from Brisbane). Further info and to register: Centre for Faith Enrichment, 08 9241 5221, cfe@ perthcatholic.org.au, www.cfe. org.au.
SATURDAY, 21 NOVEMBER SONGS FOR THE JUBILEE YEAR OF MERCY WORKSHOP This workshop will present music appropriate for celebrations during the Jubilee Year of Mercy, based on the theology of Pope Francis’ encyclical Misericordiae Vultus. To be held at Holy Family Catholic Church, 45 Thelma St, Como, 10.30am–12.30pm. Cost: $10. Futher info and to register: Centre for Liturgy 08 9207 3350, registrations cfl@perthcatholic. org.au.
SATURDAY, 21 NOVEMBER ANNUAL MASS OF THE LEGION OF MARY The Annual Mass of the Legion of Mary will be held on Saturday, 21 November at St Joachim’s Church, Shepperton Rd, Victoria Park, 10.30am – Legion prayers and rosary followed by 11am Mass. Main celebrant will be Fr Andre Maria FFI. After Mass there will be a luncheon and Annual General Reunion with carol singing and a celebration of “Mother of Sorrows”, Joondanna
1
EDITION #58 | 19 November 2015
3000th meeting. Please bring a plate of finger food to share. Auxilliaries, family and friends are most welcome.
WEDNESDAYS, 18 AND 25 NOVEMBER ARCHDIOCESAN EXPLORATION OF LAUDATO SI’ The Centre for Faith Enrichment, in collaboration with the Justice, Ecology and Development Office, Caritas, Catholic Mission, Catholic Earthcare and the Redemptorist Community, invites all to explore Pope Francis’ latest encyclical Laudato Si – “On Care for Our Common Home”. 7pm-8.30pm, at the Redemptorist Retreat Centre, 190 Vincent Street, North Perth. Cost: $5 per session. Further info and to register: 08 9241 5221, cfe@perthcatholic.org.au.
SUNDAY, 22 - SUNDAY, 23 NOVEMBER RESPONDING TO PEOPLE SEEKING ASYLUM IN AUSTRALIA: ETHICAL AND LEGAL CHALLENGES, ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES Option 1: Sunday, 22 November, 3pm. Christchurch Chapel, cnr Queenslea Dr and Stirling Hwy, Claremont. (Free event). Option 2: Monday, 23 November, 1.30-3pm. John XXIII College, Gonzaga Barry Lecture Theatre. All sessions presented by Fr Frank Brennan SJ. Register: http:// www.trybooking.com/158477. (Free event: unreserved seating.)
Tuesday, 24 November. Arrive 6.30pm, dinner will be at 7pm followed by presentation and discussion. Cost: $30 online at www.trybooking.com/JOHK or $35 at the door. Further info: Thomas Gourlay 0434 402 884, thomas@dawsonsociety.com.au.
FRIDAY, 27 NOVEMBER ‘GROWING AWARENESS OF GOD IN MY EVERY DAY’ The Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart invite you to a focused prayer and contemplation session with talks on the theme Through the tender mercy of our God – Do I show and practice ‘mercy’ in my every day? Optional sharing of one’s faith with others, followed by personal time. To be held at the Mary MacKillop Centre, 16 York Street, South Perth, from 10.30am - 12noon and repeated at 6.30pm-8pm. Further info: Laura McCarthy 08 9334 0999 or laura.mccarthy@sosj.org.au. FUNDRAISING FOR RCIA A fundraising event has been organised to assist in the running of the RCIA National Conference. The Jarrah Celtic Band will sing Celtic tunes, jigs and ballads at Romancing the Stone Gardens, 6 Lilian Rd, Maida Vale, 6pm for 7pm start. Cost: $25 per ticket includes supper. All are welcome to this fun night out, including free giveaways. BYO: drinks and nibbles. Further info: Kathleen 0438 547 565, watheroo@iinet.net.au
TUESDAY, 24 NOVEMBER
SATURDAY, 28 NOVEMBER
SHAKESPEARE’S RELIGION The Dawson Society for Philosophy and Culture will be holding their final forum for 2015, titled Shakespeare’s Religion. Presented by Prof. Chris Wortham, Professor of Theatre Studies and English Literature (UNDA). At Rosie O’Grady’s, 205 James St, Northbridge, on
PILGRIMAGE AND REFLECTION DAY IN CHITTERING The Secular Franciscan Order invites all to join them on a Pilgrimage to Chittering to the beautiful bushland setting of Peace Be Still for a reflection day commencing at 10am. There will be three talks presented by Fr Roy Pereira on “A journey in
Advent through the scriptures and God’s creation”. Mass at 2.30pm will conclude the day. Further info and to register: Angela 08 9275 5658, 0408 801 215, angelmich@bigpond.com. THE HEART OF CIVILISATION CATHOLIC WOMEN’S FORUM This forum will explore how the church affirms the dignity of womanhood, seeing femininity as an empowering foundation of women’s vocation. Hear how women are the heart of civilisation building up society through the feminine genius. Anima Women’s Network aims to enrich the lives and faith of Catholic women. Guest speaker, Anna Krohn from Melbourne, Founder of Anima Women’s Network. Saturday, 28 November, 9am-12.30pm at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, 40A Mary St, Highgate. Free event. Further info and to register: 08 9422 7999, www.trybooking. com/JOXS.
SUNDAY, 29 NOVEMBER CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY SINGING A relaxing, fun-filled afternoon of singing featuring popular carols and special Christmas and Advent chants sung in the Cathedral from 2pm - 4pm and accompanied by enthusiastic community orchestra ‘The Dorkestra’ choir and the Cathedral’s 105 yearold magnificent Dodd pipe organ. Culminates with the singing of Handel’s rousing Hallelujah Chorus! Admission: $15/$10 concession. Great raffle and complimentary Miss Maud afternoon tea during interval. Free. Limited parking available in the Cathedral grounds. Further info: 08 9223 1377.
THURSDAY, 3 - SATURDAY, 5 DECEMBER AUSTRALIAN CATHOLIC YOUTH FESTIVAL The Australian Catholic Youth
Festival is a national gathering
Exposition
of
people
Sacrament, confession, Holy
established by the ACBC. Join
Rosary, Divine Mercy prayers,
thousands of young people in
Benediction and veneration of
Adelaide to experience a deeper
St Faustina Kowalska first class
relationship with Jesus and be
relic. Fellowship will follow in
empowered to be disciples in
the hall. Further info: Julia or
the world today. Young people
June Murphy on 08 9457 7771.
from Year 9 to young adults 25
MONDAY, 7 DECEMBER
Catholic
young
years of age are invited. Further w w w.youthfestival.
info:
catholic.org.au.
TUESDAYS, 1 - 8 DECEMBER
the
Blessed
EMMANUEL CENTRE’S CHRISTMAS PARTY All are warmly invited to the Emmanuel Centre’s Christmas celebrations from 11am - 2pm.
THE DESERT FATHERS AND
Beginning with our much-loved
MOTHERS
Christmas carol singing followed
This short course will explore
by lunch and sharing. Please
the lives and spirituality of
bring a small plate of finger food
some of the Desert Fathers and
to share. RSVP: by 2 December.
Mothers of the early Church,
Further info: Barbara 08 9328
and contemplate the spiritual
8113,
wisdom they have to offer
westnet.com.au.
ordinary Christians of the 21st
THE ROAD TO BETHLEHEM
into the season of Advent. Held at St Brigid’s Parish, 69B Morrison Rd, Midland, Tuesdays, 1 and 8 December, 10am-12pm. Cost: 2 sessions $10. Presented by Dr Carmel Posa SGS. Further info and to register: Centre for Faith Enrichment, 08 9241 5221, cfe@perthcatholic.org.au, www.cfe.org.au.
emmanuelcentre@
The Road to Bethlehem is an Advent liturgy in preparation for Christmas. The story of Christian Redemption - from the Fall to the Birth of our Saviour - is narrated in 9 readings and carols held at St Thomas the Apostle Parish, Claremont commencing at 7pm. All welcome
TUESDAY, 8 DECEMBER
SATURDAY, 5 DECEMBER TEACHING MORNING ON
YEAR OF MERCY AND CLOSE
CELEBRATION TO OPEN
Commencing with Mass at 9am (Ordinariate use). Msgr Harry Entwistle,
Ordinary
of
the
Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of the Southern Cross will present teaching on the Year of Mercy from 10am to 11.10am at St Ninian & Chad, 11 Susan Street,
Maylands.
Everyone
is welcome but all attendees should have read the Papal bull Misericordiae
Vultus
before
attending. Please bring your bible.
SUNDAY, 6 DECEMBER DIVINE MERCY An afternoon with Jesus and Mary will be on Sunday, 6 December at St Francis Xavier’s Church, Perth.
25 Windsor St, East Fr Doug Harris will be
speaking on the Holy Family. The afternoon program includes EDITION #58 | 19 November 2015
YEAR OF CONSECRATED LIFE Archbishop Timothy Costelloe extends a warm invitation to all family members, parishioners and Religious to join him for this special Eucharistic Celebration to open the Year of Mercy and to close the Year of Consecrated Life;
on
the
Feast
of
the
Immaculate Conception, Tuesday, 8 December, St Mary’s Cathedral, Victoria Sq, Perth at 12.10pm.
WEDNESDAY, 9 - SUNDAY, 13 DECEMBER EMBRACE THE GRACE YOUTH CONFERENCE ‘Embrace the Grace’ (ETG) is a not to be missed annual youth conference on 9-13 December in New Norcia for 16-30 year olds. At ETG you will explore faith and life’s greatest questions through
dynamic
OUR LADY, HELP OF CHRISTIANS, 80TH ANNIVERSARY The parish of Our Lady Help of Christians, East Victoria Park invites past community members, together with those who served in the parish and school for a special 80th Anniversary celebration Mass and morning tea, held on Sunday, 13 December, 9.30am, at 43 Camberwell St, East Victoria Park. (Parking near Fraser Park, Balmoral St, East Vic Park). Main celebrant: Most Rev Donald Sproxton, Auxiliary Bishop of Perth. Further info and RSVP by 20 Nov: Dennis 08 9361 5135, denniskelly@live. com.au; Jaya, j.earnest@curtin. edu.au.
EVERY SECOND WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH
SPECIAL EUCHARISTIC
THE YEAR OF MERCY
prayer. There will also be a miniOlympics and a dinner dance. (If you would like to help with a donation toward sponsorship to assist a young person to attend, please contact CYM). Further info: Catholic Youth Ministry 08 9422 7912, admin@cym.com. au, or register at www.cym.com. au/embracethegrace.
SUNDAY, 13 DECEMBER
AN ADVENT JOURNEY WITH
century. A great way to enter
2
of
talks,
workshops, music, drama and
Chaplets of the Divine Mercy A powerful, prayerful, sung devotion held at St Thomas More Catholic Church, Dean Road Bateman, on the second Wednesday of each month commencing at 7.30 pm. It will be accompanied by Exposition and followed by Benediction and Annointing. If you have not been before, why don’t you come along and be uplifted? Enquiries to George Lopez on 9310 9493(h) or 6242 0702(w).
EVERY FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH Young Adults Cenacle Group The Young Adults Cenacle Group invites young people aged 18-40 to St Bernadette’s Church, Jugan St, Glendalough on the 1st & 3rd Thursday of each month at 8pm. The evening includes a cenacle rosary, followed by a reflection by a
visiting priest and fellowship. Any queries phone Viviana on 0413 432 025.
EVERY FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH CATHOLIC FAITH RENEWAL 7.30pm at St John and Paul’s Parish, Pinetree Gully Road, Willetton.
Songs
of
Praise,
sharing by a Priest, Thanksgiving Mass and light refreshments after Mass. All welcome to attend and we encourage you to bring your family and friends. Enq: Ann 0412 166 164, Ivan 0428 898 833. EVERY SATURDAY Commencing
February
28
at 9am, The Instinct to Heal’ Holistic Health (24 sessions). From 10.30am -1pm, Internalize principles
of
successful
relationships and use emotional intelligence and communication skills.
For
couples,
singles,
parents and families. Prayer meetings
held
every
2nd
Thursday. Enq: Eva 0409 405 585 or 9418 1439; rcpd.net.au
GENERAL E-RECORD NEWSLETTER UPDATE
Local news from across our parishes, agencies, schools and organisations can be delivered weekly directly to your inbox via the e-Record e-newsletter. It contains the latest news, events and photos from the Archdiocese. Parishes receive a PDF copy of the e-newsletter to print off and distribute for those who don’t have or don’t use email. Subscribe to the e-newsletter by sending details to
communications.media@
perthcatholic.org.au.
Further
info: Jamie O’Brien 08 9220 5900.