The Record Magazine Issue 32 (August 2021)

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ISSUE 32 AUGUST 2021

E UTH A N A S I A

SUPERANNUATION

VO CATI O N

WA Churches enter new world order PAGE 10

Are you in your 40s and over? PAGE 16

Bernadette embraces her mission PAGE 22

Official magazine for the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth The Record Magazine ISSUE 32.indb 1

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Photo: Max Hoh.

AUGUST 2021

ISSUE 32 OUR MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to provide news, features and perspectives for the Catholic community of the Archdiocese of Perth and Western Australia. We work to support Catholics to engage in the message of the Gospel and our coverage seeks to reflect the needs and interests of the Church – local, national and international – in a

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

complete and authentic manner, reflecting always the voice of Christ in His universal Church.

AND EDITOR Jamie O’Brien jamie.obrien@perthcatholic.org.au

DISCL AIMER

The Record Magazine is published bi-monthly.

PRODUCTION

Views expressed in published articles are not necessarily those of the publisher

Michelle Tan

or Editor. The Editor may refuse copy or material, including advertisements,

michelle.tan@perthcatholic.org.au

for publication. Inclusion of an advertisement in The Record Magazine does not reflect endorsement or responsibility from the publisher or Editor.

DIGITAL PRODUCER Max Hoh

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Matthew Lau matthew.lau@perthcatholic.org.au Amanda Murthy

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Copyright 2021. No part of The Record Magazine may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from the publisher. The Record Magazine liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. Proudly printed in Australia by Scott Print. This publication has been printed utilising solar electricity, with paper sourced from plantation-based timber. Both the paper manufacturer and printer are ISO14001 certified, the world standard in environmental management.

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F E AT U R E D T H I S M O N T H

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Special Report Church in WA enters new world order

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Superannuation Are you in your 40s or older?

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Archbishop’s Pastoral Letter - Voluntary Assisted Dying

Plenary Council Agenda asks difficult questions

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‘It’s me. Don’t be afraid.’

— John 6:20

F R O M T H E E D I T O R Jamie O’Brien

Vocations Bernadette embraces her mission

Welcome to the Issue 32 of The Record Magazine. The curent Voluntary Assisted Dying debate has created a new world order for Western Australia.

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On 23 June, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe published a fourpage Pastoral Letter in which he expressed his thoughts and concerns regarding the new legislation. We publish the Pastoral Letter in full from page four to seven.

Recipe Koshary

We speak with LJ Goody Bioethics Director, Rev Dr Joseph Parkinson, who diligently explains the facts and information about the legislation, in addition to how the Church healthcare sector will operate moving forward. We also feature the highlights from the openings of two of our newest Churches at Jurien Bay and Chittering. Our thanks to our

FROM THE ARCHDIOCESE

IN THIS EDITION

sponsor, Australian Catholic Superannuation and Retirement

Mary’s Mount Anniversary

Fund (ACSRF) for their ongoing contribution and support.

Jurien Bay Church Dedication

Don’t forget that these and many more stories are available

Chittering Church Dedication

at www.therecord.com.au. The Record Magazine is a magazine

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for the people and I hope you will enjoy taking the time to

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engage with us. Please feel free to share your thoughts via

Activity Page

editor@therecord.com.au.

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From Bishop Don Sproxton

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Pastoral Letter – Voluntary Assisted Dying The Most Rev Timothy Costelloe SDB DD Archbishop of Perth

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ, On Thursday, 1 July 2021, legislation passed by the Western Australian State Parliament in relation to “Voluntary Assisted Dying” (VAD) will be enacted. Put simply this legislation will permit a person, under certain specified conditions, to access medication which is designed to cause that person’s death. The legislation will also permit other people, again under certain specified conditions, to provide assistance to those who without such assistance would be unable to administer the medication to themselves. At this important time for our society, and for the Catholic community which seeks to be a vibrant and engaged part of the wider community, I have decided to share with you some perspectives which I hope will help you to reflect on the significance of this moment. The issues are complex and this letter is therefore rather long. I hope you will be patient with me as you read and reflect on it.

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The successful passage of this legislation through both houses of State Parliament eighteen months ago was the result of a long period of advocacy on the part of those who support VAD. At the same time there have been many voices raising concerns about this development in our society. Some recent media reports suggest that only a small number of people facing a terminal diagnosis will choose to end their lives when VAD becomes legal in the state of Western Australia on Thursday, 1 July 2021. This may well be the case but, of course, there are no guarantees. Reference has also been made to the restrictive conditions around access to VAD. How permanent these restrictions will be remains to be seen.

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A Fundamental Principle

Important though questions of accessibility to VAD are, there is a more fundamental question of principle. Is it ever ethically permissible to deliberately end one’s own life, to ask another person to help you do so, or to intentionally assist another person to do so? Many people would give a definite “yes” to such questions, and this position has been reflected in the legislation. Many other people, including some in the medical and other caring professions, would take the opposite view. Both approaches are widely represented in our society, although we may presume, given the apparent level of support indicated in many opinion polls, that support for VAD is greater in our society than is opposition to it. While much of the opposition to VAD has come from religious groups, including the Catholic Church, it is clear that not all religiously-minded people are opposed to VAD. Equally it is true that not all those who have no religious faith are in favour of it. Life is much more complex and varied than that. It is well known that the Catholic tradition is firmly opposed to VAD. A recent document from the Vatican, ‘Samaritanus Bonus: on the care of persons in the critical and terminal phases of life’, reaffirms the Church’s perennial teaching with respect to the sacredness of human life.1 It has been the constant teaching of the Catholic Church for the last two thousand years that no-one has the right to end their own life or to deliberately bring about the death of another, with the sole exception of the right of self-defence against an unjust aggressor.2 This conviction about the sanctity and inviolability of human life is one of the most foundational values by which we as Catholics live. We believe that every human life, from its earliest beginnings at conception to its final moments leading to death, is precious and sacrosanct. Noone has the right to “step in” and bring to an end a life that has begun under God’s providence and will come to its end under God’s providence. We also believe, precisely because life is precious and sacred, that it is to be respected at every moment: when the child is still in its mother’s womb, when it grows to be an infant, then a young child, then an adolescent and an adult. We believe that whether

a person is sick or well, weak or strong, poor or wealthy, in agreement with us or in opposition to us, educated or illiterate, generous or selfish, faithful or faithless, living or dying, that person is to be treated with dignity and respect: everything that can be done to give meaning and hope to every person must be done. In relation to the specific matter of Voluntary Assisted Dying the Church’s position rests on its constant interpretation of the fifth commandment of the Mosaic law: you shall not kill.3 This is, we believe, a commandment from God, the giver and sustainer of life. It is a law which pre-exists any government or any parliament. Governments have the power, given to them by those who elect them, to determine what rules are expedient in the societies they govern. They do not have any authority to decide what is morally acceptable. That authority belongs to God, who has written into the nature and structure of human life what is in harmony with God’s creative intention. This position, grounded in our religious faith, does we believe provide a blueprint for a life well-lived and for a society structured so as to ensure the wellbeing and flourishing of its people.

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Our Response as a Community of Disciples of Jesus

It is clear that the position advocated by the Catholic Church, among others, has not been adopted by our society. From Thursday, 1 July 2021, VAD will be legal in Western Australia. In the face of this reality the Catholic community must consider how to respond. I believe our response must be two-fold. Firstly, we must recommit ourselves to forming and strengthening communities of faith, of hope, of mutual support and fidelity, and of love and compassion. It will not be enough to proclaim in words only our belief in the dignity and beauty of every human person: we will need to do so also and especially with our actions. And at this present moment we will need to do so in a special way with those who are sick, suffering or elderly. These people are members of our families or our circle of friends. They are our brothers and sisters in our parish communities. They are our neighbours or our work colleagues. And they, together with us, are all children of the one God who is in heaven. Secondly, and most importantly, we must continue to support, through our prayer and our encouragement, all those who, in a very real sense on our behalf, are engaged in the healing and caring ministry of the Church. Our Catholic hospitals, our Catholic aged-care facilities, our Catholic nursing homes and our Catholic Social Outreach agencies are already committed to being places of compassion, of healing, and of hope. With the legalisation of VAD the witness of all these wonderful institutions to the Catholic understanding of the dignity and sanctity of every human life will become even more important. It will also become more challenging. As society’s values change, then our outreach agencies, which all seek to be open to everyone, offering the gift of Christ’s healing and sustaining love, must grapple with the responsibility to be deeply faithful to our convictions as Catholics and at the same time welcoming and compassionate to all with whom and for whom they work, including those who may not share our values. To exclude them would be to rob ourselves of the opportunity to witness to the transforming power of the gospel. In this regard it is important that I reassure all of you, my sisters and brothers in the faith, that here in Western Australia our Catholic institutions are working collaboratively with the health authorities to ensure that Catholic facilities can continue to operate with complete fidelity to our Catholic principles, including our commitment to respect life in all its moments. Our hospitals and aged care facilities will not support, and will not provide or

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facilitate, Voluntary Assisted Dying. VAD is not regarded in any of our institutions as “medical care or treatment” and cannot from part of the “provision of care” which is the fundamental obligation our institutions have to all their patients, residents or clients. Precisely because we wish to provide the best care possible according to our Catholic values, our various institutions will make their policies around VAD clear and unambiguous. This is important, both to provide certainty to those who choose to come to one of our facilities and to provide clarity to those who choose to work in our facilities.

Palliative Care

With the advent of VAD, high quality palliative care, which is one of the outstanding features of our Catholic health and aged-care services, assumes ever greater importance. Palliative care is the best way to assist a dying person who, in fact, has entered into the most important stage of their life. As well as providing appropriate medication, which more often than not is a crucial dimension of endof-life care, palliative care also seeks to provide accompaniment of the dying person and of his or her family, friends and others, as they all enter into the challenge of accepting the reality of death and all that it means. It is about physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual closeness to the dying person and to those who are travelling the journey with that person. The relief of physical suffering in the final stages of an illness is an essential component of this care, and there is nothing in Catholic theology which would prevent the administration of more powerful pain medication as an illness progresses. But it is one thing to seek to relieve pain: it is another thing to act to deliberately end a person’s life. Our Catholic facilities will continue to do the former; we will not support or facilitate the latter. We will continue to treat every patient, resident or client with the respect their human dignity deserves, which includes never deliberately intending to cause their death. Because of the vital importance of palliative care we should look forward to the government committing more resources to the provision of such care. To fail to do so would be to abandon people at the end of their lives when they are most in need of support. As a society we will need to monitor the government’s fidelity to its promise to make the provision of quality and accessible palliative care a cornerstone of its commitment to end-of-life care.

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The Church: Sign and Bearer of God's Compassion

I want to conclude by assuring you that in writing the way I have I have not been blind to the complexity of this matter. Nor am I suggesting that those who support VAD are in any way lacking in compassion. Indeed, for many supporters of VAD, it is their own experience of the death of a loved one which has led them to the position they hold. But I, too, have experienced the death of loved ones and have sat at the bedside of the dying, including my mother. It can be an agonising experience to sit helplessly watching someone you love die of a painful disease. In the end, it was my faith that sustained me, just as it was the faith and hope of my mother which carried her through those last difficult days. Had mum’s death been hastened in any way she would have been deprived of knowing of the safe delivery of her one and only grandchild. She died half an hour after I whispered in her ear that the baby had been safely born. I remain profoundly grateful for that.

The VAD legislation has been passed and is about to become operative in Western Australia. I believe this is a tragedy for our society but I fully understand that not everyone sees it this way. For those who do, however, and for whom this is a question of conscientious belief about a matter of life and death, it is essential that we be able to live out our beliefs freely and with integrity. In this way we will be able to make our contribution to the well-being of our society through our hospitals, aged-care facilities and nursing homes, without having to betray a principle which is so central to who we are. I sincerely hope and trust that no attempt will be made by anyone to force any person or institution to provide services to which they hold a conscientious objection or to shame and denigrate them for sincerely holding such beliefs. I invite you all to join with me in prayer for those whose life experience has brought them to a point where accessing VAD seems the only option open to them; for those who will be called to uphold in our institutions the beauty and hope of the Catholic understanding of the dignity of life; and for our Catholic community, that we can continue to create and foster communities of faith, of hope, of mutual support and fidelity, and of love and compassion. This is our best response to the challenge which lies ahead of us.

+ Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB ARCHBISHOP OF PERTH

1. Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. ‘Samaritanus Bonus: on the care of persons in the critical and terminal phases of life’. Holy See: CDF, July 2020. https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_2020a0714_samaritanusbonus_en.html 2. This teaching is clearly expressed in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) in Part 3, Section 2, Article 5. The specific reference is in numbers 2276-2283. The reference to self-defense is in numbers 2263-2267. 3. Exodus 20:13; cf. Deuteronomy 5:17; Matthew 5: 21-22.

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The human heart hears of the love and mercy of God in the life and teachings of Christ

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Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton recently celebrated the Annual Archdiocesan Agencies Mass, highlighting that the works and service to our society by the agencies are ways in which we are drawn into the mission and ministry of Jesus Christ in the Archdiocese. The words of Jesus we have heard in today's Gospel reading were to resonate in the life, faith and writings of the thirteenth century Saint Bonaventure. He wrote that Christ is “the one true Master”. Bonaventure was very clear on this point. He was one of the great philosophers and theologians of his time. Yet regardless of his knowledge and erudition, he looked always to Christ as his Master and Teacher. He was a fellow student with Thomas Aquinas at the University of Paris. They agreed on many things but could pose different views on others. They both sought to serve the One Master and Teacher. Both were to be acknowledged by the Church for their sanctity and service of the truth. The Franciscan Pope, Sixtus IV canonised Bonaventure only eight years after the saint’s death in 1274, and another Franciscan, Sixtus V, proclaimed him a Doctor of the Church in 1588. Bonaventure, like others in his time, wanted to integrate faith and reason with the aid of the recently recovered sources of philosophy. He constantly taught that Christ “offers humans knowledge that begins in faith, which is developed through rational understanding, and is perfected by mystical union with God.” We, today, speak of the process of evangelisation: the human heart hears of the love and mercy of God in the life and teachings of Christ, and this announcement of the Good News is fanned into a maturing faith through catechesis, with the aim that we would develop a close, loving union with

God fed by our reflection and discernment of the presence of God in the events of each day. We know that the works and service to our society by the agencies are ways in which we are drawn into the mission and ministry of Jesus Christ in the Archdiocese. When we join in the work of an agency, it is possible to sense the call to partnership and an intimate relationship with Christ. This call is nurtured by our continual reflection on the events and interactions we have with the people and situations Christ leads us to serve. I often reflect on those experiences that I had when serving in chaplaincy at Royal Perth Hospital. The hospital stands alongside this Cathedral, in a sense like a sacrament, reminding the priests and lay ministers of the Eucharist of the essential ministry of pastoral care for the sick in hospitals, nursing homes and at home. This ministry must not be withheld or neglected. Such ministry brings, as well, the benefit of personal growth and integration for the minister. It is through prayerful reflection and discernment that priests and lay faithful discover more about themselves and grow in being able to be there with those facing pain, suffering or death. Putting ourselves into situations that are uncomfortable or, better, allowing ourselves to be led into these encounters by Christ is how the partnership is formed. Then we can become sacraments of care and accompaniment, and bringers of Christ to those in need. There is a mystical dimension to our ministry in our agencies. We go with God into the lives of the people. Sometimes we go in trepidation and uncertainty, but like the psalmist, we come back rejoicing in amazement at the harvest, what God achieved through our service. And we are amazed at the closeness and the love of God. We gain “the strength to grasp the breadth and the length, the height and the depth; until, knowing the love of Christ, which is, beyond all knowledge, you are filled with the utter fullness of God”. (Ephesians3:19) These are the questions that help us to grow in faith filled ministry: What is God calling me to be and to do? How does my service help me to see the closeness and intimacy of God? How has Jesus been the Teacher for me today?

+ Bishop Don Sproxton

AUXILIARY BISHOP OF PE RTH

Left: Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton speaking at the 2021 LifeLink Day launch for Primary Schools. Photo: Ron Tan. ISSUE 32 AUGUST 2021

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SPECIAL REPORT: Church in Western Australia enters new world order W O R D S Jamie O'Brien

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The Catholic Church in Western Australia entered a new world order on 1 July 2021 with the enacting of the 2019 Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill. The legislation, passed by the McGowan government on 10 December 2019, allows Western Australians who are terminally ill the right to end their life at a time of their choosing. This means that the legislation will apply to the WA Catholic heath care acute, aged and disability sector, including St John of God Hospitals, MercyCare, Mercy Health, Catholic Homes, Southern Cross Care, Nazareth Care, Little Sisters of the Poor and Mount La Verna aged care facilities, in addition to Identitywa as a disability care service, and the University of Notre Dame Australia as a medical teaching facility. Those who make the decision to end their life must be diagnosed with a terminal 1 illness or medical condition that will on the balance of probabilities cause death within six months, or within 12 months for some conditions. The person must have decision makIng capacity in relation to voluntary assisted dying During the process the person must make three separate requests for voluntary assisted dying: a first request, a written declaration and a final request. The written declaration must be witnessed by two people who meet specific requirements. In an exclusive interview with Archdiocesan Communications Manager and The Record Editor Jamie O’Brien, LJ Goody Bioethics Director, Rev Dr Joe Parkinson explained how the legislation will be operationalised within the WA Catholic health care sector acute, aged and disability care organisations. “Our services have agreed that we will not provide or facilitate VAD,” Dr Parkinson explained. The acute, aged, disability care and community services elements of the WA Catholic health care sector represent some 2000 private and public hospital beds and more than 6000 residential and home care packages across Western Australia. “The WA Catholic health, disability and aged care sector work to provide the best care possible for our patients, residents and clients, and for our staff who will have to adjust to the advent of VAD,” Dr Parkinson explained. Dr Parkinson continued by highlighting that each Catholic health, disability and aged care service provider has agreed on basic principles that preserve the long-standing Catholic commitment to excellent end-of-life care, and each service will develop its own protocols for operationalising those principles. “To begin with, we recognise that wherever we deliver aged care or disability care services, it will usually be in the client or resident’s own home setting and they have a right (under Federal legislation) to make any other care arrangements they like.

“So, we cannot impede their right to seek VAD privately, and we will comply with the VAD Act in providing statutory information about VAD. “However, we will not authorise any of our caregivers to be involved in any of the steps required for the client to access VAD, including facilitating assessments for eligibility and helping them to obtain and use the VAD substances. Dr Parkinson continued by explaining that the Catholic sector wants residents and clients to talk to them freely about any care concerns they may have, including seeking information about VAD or their wish to access VAD. “We are training staff to be available for these conversations, so that we can identify and deliver the kind of care the resident or client actually needs at the time,” Dr Parkinson explained. “If a resident or client wishes to consult a VAD Navigator they will be able to do so privately, even on our premises, but our staff will not be authorised to assist, other than to put the resident or client in touch with the Navigator Service for the purposes of obtaining information. If a resident or client wishes to consult an external doctor for the purposes of VAD eligibility assessment and associated processes, they will also be free to do so. However, Catholic sector staff will not assist in any way. It is also against the law for health care workers to raise the issue of voluntary assisted dying with a resident or client. “If a resident or client wishes to make private arrangements to receive and use VAD substances they will not be impeded, but again our staff will not be authorised to assist in any way,” Dr Parkinson emphasised. “And we will need to pay close attention to the safe storage of and access to the substances,” he said. Staff do also not have to talk about voluntary assisted dying with the resident or client if they don’t want to – also known as ‘conscientious objection’. Dr Parkinson also noted that the Catholic sector does not want to see patients, residents of clients transfer out of their facilities for the purposes of obtaining VAD. "Although of course we will not impede any who wish and are assessed as clinically safe to do so. “Likewise if a hospital asks to return a resident or client to our care we will accept them, even if they intend to pursue VAD, but our staff will not be authorised to assist with the VAD process itself,” Dr Parkinson said. “Our basic stance is that we would prefer to look after all our patients, residents and clients ourselves, because we believe we are able to provide the best available standard of care in all of its physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. “That includes end-of-life care,” he said.

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Mary’s Mount Primary School going strong at 100 years W O R D S Amanda Murthy

The milestone celebrations for the Mary’s Mount Primary School (MMPS) were underway as soon as it was safe to do so. Gathering the entire school community at Saint Mary’s Cathedral to celebrate Mass on Thursday, 17 June, to pay tribute to their rich history, traditions, achievements, and Catholic Education, which evidently, continues to flourish. The Mass took place on yet another significant day, the feast of the school’s patron, St Emilie, on Thursday, 17 June, and was celebrated by Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton, alongside concelebrants Father Antony Suresh, Fr Greg Donovan and Fr William Ousley OMI. The school officially turned 100 on 2 February, having been originally opened in 1921 as a boy’s college by the Sisters of St Joseph of the Apparition. Mother Emily was the first Superior with Sisters Patrick and Carmel to help her. Today it is difficult to picture Mary’s Mount humble beginnings of three Sisters, five boarders and 12 day pupils. In 1946, the Sisters and boys built a grotto

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to honour Our Lady and often held Masses there. In the early 1950s’ a new brick school was completed and was blessed by then Bishop Goody. 1969 was the final year MMPS catered for boarders and the school became co-educational. Ten years later, student numbers were at 460, with two classes in each year from Years one to seven, and a new chapel was built. In 1987, the original two-storey building from 1926 was demolished and a new school building with six classrooms, a toilet block, staff administration areas and a library was built. In its 75th year, in 1996, a plaque for the ‘big bell Joseph’

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was installed. This is the bell each graduating student rings on their last day at the school. Other developments included a Nature Playground (2017), a government funded school hall dubbed St Joseph’s (2010), and the Giovinazzo Learning Centre (2018). Mary’s Mount Primary School Principal Emma Bell, who commenced her role in January 2021, tributed the school’s founder St Emilie de Vialar, and reflected on her journey with gratitude. “I feel blessed to have joined the MMPS community in such a significant year for the school,” Principal Bell said. “In the short time I have been here, I have met families with whose own histories are woven into the fabric of the school. I have loved hearing the stories of generations of family members connected with MMPS. The students, families and staff have certainly made this a welcoming and vibrant school environment. “2021 is a year when students are encouraged to create their own history and memories of MMPS, while taking inspiration from the sisters of St Joseph of the Apparition and their faithfulness to the charism of their founder St Emilie de Vialar,” she added. Ms Bell who encouraged many events, initiatives, and activities throughout the year to honour the many achievements of the school said that she was grateful to be able to witness a “strong sense of

community that was apparent and with a heart full of love, joy and pride of all involved.” “A gala dinner involving 300 parents, past staff and students held on 22 May, provided the perfect opportunity for past staff and students to reconnect and friendships to be rekindled.” Besides the formal gala dinner, the school hosted a welcome Mass at the start of the year and a birthday cake cutting ceremony. Some newer events include historical school tours, the construction of a Sacred Space to commemorate the century of the school to honour tradition, to an opportunity for students and staff, past and present, to ‘own a piece of the school they love’ – by obtaining their very own personalised anniversary bricks.

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“BE A COMMUNITY OF CHRIST,” ARCHBISHOP COSTELLOE ENCOURAGED ALL AT THE DEDICATION OF NEW JURIEN BAY PARISH W O R D S Jamie O'Brien

The new Church of Our Lady Star of the Sea Jurien Bay, blessed and dedicated by Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB on Saturday, 29 May, was the result of more than 50 years of prayers and waiting, said Moora Parish Administrator, Fr Renald Anthony. “For those who do not know the story behind how many years the people have been praying and waiting for, I was told that it was as early as Msgr Cameron’s time, which was at least 50 years ago, when he dreamt of having a church in this region, here in Jurien Bay Cervantes,” Fr Anthony said. “This is not all possible today, without the prayers and blessings of all the people that worked for this over the last 50 years.” Joining Archbishop Costelloe to concelebrate the Mass was Fr Anthony, former Parish Priest and now York Parish Priest-in-Charge Fr Chris Webb, Fr Peter Bianchini as MC, Redemptoris Mater Seminary Vice-Rector, Fr Luis Tijerino, as well as several priests from across the Archdiocese of Perth who travelled the two-and-a-half-hour journey for the special occasion. In his homily, Archbishop Costelloe reflected on the

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readings of the day, highlighting three main points of what it means to be the Church of God, drawing on the writings from Vatican II and specifically Lumen Gentium. “I wanted to take this opportunity just to reflect briefly with you on what it means to say, as Paul does in the second reading this morning, that we are both building and being built into a spiritual house for God, which is built on the prophets and the apostles and which has Christ himself as the cornerstone,” Archbishop Costelloe began. “We, you here, who come to this parish, you are like a sacrament. This is your vocation. “What does that mean? To be a sign and an instrument, a means through which God brings people into communion with Him and into unity amongst themselves,” he added.

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Archbishop Costelloe went on to explain that all who attend a parish, are considered a Sacrament, as each person’s faith journey is a ‘vocation.’ “What does that mean? To be a sign and an instrument, a means through which God brings people into communion with Him and into unity amongst themselves.” Archbishop Costelloe’s next point drew on a familiar expression of St John Paul II who said, ‘the Church is the community of the disciples of Jesus Christ’. “It’s a very simple idea: first of all, we’re a community, but we’re a community of disciples which means we’re not following each other, we’re not gazing at each other - we’re following the Lord upon whom we gaze, and especially we do that when we gather here in this church,” Archbishop Costelloe emphasised. For his third point, Archbishop Costelloe looked to Pope Francis, who often refers to the Church as if it were a field hospital in the middle of a battle. “As Pope Francis said, ‘When a soldier is wounded, and is brought into the field hospital, the doctors and the nurses don’t begin by asking that soldier about his or her cholesterol levels or blood sugar level, or any of those sorts

of things – they begin by healing the wounds,” he added. “The Holy Father went on to say that this is the great mission of the Church today, to heal people’s wounds. And then he added something more, he said not just to be a healer of people’s wounds, but a warmer of people’s hearts.” At the conclusion of Mass, the blessing of a special painting of Our Lady Star of the Sea by artist Bernadette Cartensen was carried out in the presence of more than 250 people who were in attendance. Jurien Bay Building Committee Chair John Willett, who spoke the Welcome and Acknowledgement to Country, acknowledged the Yued people, including elders, past, present and emerging. “From a Church perspective, the Church of Jurien Bay, which is the most northern of the Archdiocese of Perth, and from a Shire perspective, it’s the first new place of worship to be built on the turquoise coast,” Mr Willett said. “This achievement has been a long-held dream of many who are here today, several who are unable to be with us due to distance and health, and some who have passed to their eternal reward. “It is our hope that what our planning committee set out to achieve three years ago, commencing with Fr Chris Webb and under the Committee Chair of Wendy Harvey, is not only a fulfilment of that dream, but will become a place of worship for the whole community in Jurien Bay and Cervantes and our region; not simply for us but for the future,” Mr Willett concluded.

● LEFT Moora Parish Administrator Fr Renald Anthony speaks with a parishioner before the Dedication Mass on 29 May. Photo: Max Hoh. ● LEFT Parishioners with the artwork by artist Bernadette Cartensen. Photo: Max Hoh. ● ABOVE Archbishop Costelloe pours the oil of Chrism on the new altar. Photo: Max Hoh. ● ABOVE The new Church of Our Lady Star of the Sea, Jurien Bay, on the turquoise coast, is the northern most Church of the Archdiocese of Perth. Photo: Max Hoh. ISSUE 32 AUGUST 2021

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ARE YOU IN YOUR 40S OR OLDER? HERE’S WHY YOU SHOULD PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR SUPER

Your super is an investment for your retirement years and if you have many decades to go before you leave the workforce, it’s not surprising that paying attention to your retirement savings isn’t on your list of priorities. However, if you’re in your 40s or older, there are some aspects of your super that may be worth keeping an eye on. Read on to find out why. Super contributions and returns Typically, the change in your super balance consists of two components: 1. Contributions that you and/or your employer makes 2. The return on your investment. In the early years of your work life, contributions make up a majority of the changes in your super balance. Given that the amount of super you have at this stage of your career tends to be small, negative

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returns resulting from volatile investment markets are not likely to have a material impact on your account balance at retirement. As you get older and your account balance grows, the return on your investment can have a bigger impact on the change in your super. The hypothetical case studies below illustrate this impact. Case study 1¹ 27-year-old Cindy has been a full-time teacher for two years and has been receiving 9.5 per cent super guarantee employer contributions on her $80,000 salary. After receiving these contributions and returns on her investments, Cindy’s account balance was $13,772 at the end of the second year. During the third year, investment markets took a turn for the worse and Cindy received a return of -10 per cent. Feeling worried, Cindy checked her account

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balance. She discovered that her investment losses of $1,693 were more than offset by her employer’s contributions of $6,987. This resulted in a closing balance of $19,033, a 38 per cent increase from her opening account balance at the start of the year. As the investment markets had softened, Cindy benefitted investing subsequent contributions from her employer at lower prices, which could make a difference to her account balance in the future. Case study 2¹ 46-year-old Samantha has been a full-time teacher since she was 25 and has not taken a career break since she began working. Like Cindy, Samantha has been receiving 9.5 per cent employer super guarantee contributions throughout her entire working life. She now earns a salary of $109,365 and has a superannuation balance of $298,251. Samantha’s super hasn’t been impacted by major downturns in the investment markets to date. Pleased with her excellent returns, she leaves her super in the current investment options and doesn’t review how her retirement savings are invested.

Visit catholicsuper.com.au/investments/investmentbasics to find out more. Impact on your super if you’re female If you’re female, there are additional factors that may impact your super, including: • Women earn less on average than men. • Women are more likely to take a career break to care for their family. • Women live longer on average than men. Visit catholicsuper.com.au/education/her-purse for tips on how you can get on top of your finances. Any advice contained in this article is of a general nature only, and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Prior to acting on any information in this article, you need to take into account your own financial circumstances, consider the Product Disclosure Statement for any product you are considering, and seek independent financial advice if you are unsure of what action to take. ¹Assumptions • A starting salary of $80,000 per year, which increases at 4.0 per cent per annum and is capped at $125,619 as per a Band 3

Unexpectedly, investment markets fall by 10 per cent and Samantha finds that her superannuation account balance had fallen by $20,189. This is because her employer contributions of $10,144 were not enough to make up for her investment losses of $30,332. The impact of contributions and investment returns on the change to your super balance The graph above illustrates Cindy’s and Samantha’s experiences. Typically, investment returns start to have a bigger influence than contributions on the change to your account balance around your mid-40s¹. Consequently at this stage of your life, it becomes even more important that you review that your super is invested in options that align to your risk appetite and goals.

teacher under the Sydney Catholic Schools system. • Super Guarantee contributions were at a rate of 9.5 per cent. • No voluntary contributions are made. • An expected return of 4.5 per cent per annum (net of fees and charges) is assumed based on the return of Australian Catholic Superannuation’s Conservative Balance option and includes a 2 per cent rate of inflation. • Calculations include the 15 per cent super contribution tax. These calculations are hypothetical. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. As a result, you should consider its appropriateness to your own situation and obtain independent financial advice before making any decisions about your superannuation.

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Plenary Council Agenda asks difficult questions The Fifth Plenary Council of Australia agenda calls those attending the assemblies to “develop concrete proposals to create a more missionary, Christ-centred Church in Australia”. The Plenary plan, which has emerged from three years and several layers of prayer, listening, dialogue and discernment, will shape the programme of the Council’s assemblies – the first of which opens on 3 October 2021. The agenda’s preamble draws from Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, which explores the pontiff’s “dream of a ‘missionary option’.” “That is, a missionary impulse capable of transforming everything, so that the Church’s customs, ways of doing things, times and schedules, language and structures can be suitably channelled for the evangelisation of today’s world rather than for her self-preservation,” the Holy Father wrote. Plenary Council President Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB said the invitation and exhortation to be a missionary people would run through the schedule. “Through the Plenary Council, we are being called to consider how we can be a Church that goes out to the peripheries, that welcomes all into our communities and shows the face of Christ to the world,” Archbishop Costelloe stated. The agenda has been developed to pose 16 questions falling under six themes: Conversion, Prayer, Formation, Structures, Governance, and Institutions. “So much of what we heard during the Council journey related to this concept of ‘conversion’ – personal conversion, communal conversion, and institutional conversion – with an ever-deeper renewal in Christ. “The agenda asks us several difficult questions, but without asking those difficult questions, we won’t be entering into the depth of our hearts to consider how we become that missionary, Christ-centred Church we need today. “Each member attending the assemblies will bring their own unique gifts to the agenda on behalf of the People of God in Australia.”

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Plenary Council Facilitator Lana Turvey-Collins said the agenda, published on the Plenary Council website, asks questions with widespread relevance. “These questions have been developed for a specific purpose – for prayer, conversation, discernment, and decision-making during the Plenary Council – but they are questions that can challenge each of us, each parish, each Church community,” she explained. “In preparing for the Council and beyond, the agenda can be a rich source of reflection and contemplation in our own settings.” Archbishop Costelloe asked people to continue to pray for the Council and its members who will attend the October 2021 assembly and subsequent July 2022 assembly. More than 280 members nationwide began participating in focussed formation sessions in June 2021.

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Conversion • How might we better accompany one another on the journey of personal and communal conversion which mission in Australia requires? • How might we heal the wounds of abuse, coming to see through the eyes of those who have been abused? • How might the Church in Australia open in new ways to Indigenous ways of being Christian in spirituality, theology, liturgy, and missionary discipleship? How might we learn from the First Nations peoples? • How might the Church in Australia meet the needs of the most vulnerable, go to the peripheries, be missionary in places that may be overlooked or left behind in contemporary Australia? How might we partner with others (Christians, people of other faiths, neighbourhood community groups, government) to do this? • How might the Church in Australia respond to the call to ‘ecological conversion’? How can we express and promote a commitment to an ‘integral ecology of life’ in all its dimensions, with particular attention to the more vulnerable people and environments in our country and region?

Prayer • How might we become a more contemplative people, committing more deeply to prayer as a way of life, and celebrating the liturgy of the Church as an encounter with Christ who sends us out to “make disciples of all the nations”? • How might we better embrace the diverse liturgical traditions of the Churches which make up the Catholic Church and the cultural gifts of immigrant communities to enrich the spirituality and worship of the Church in Australia?

Formation • How might we better form leaders for mission – adults, children and families, couples and single people? • How might we better equip ordained ministers to be enablers of missionary discipleship: the Church becoming more a “priestly people” served by the ordained ministry? • How might formation, both pre- and postordination, better foster the development of bishops, priests and deacons as enablers of the universal Christian vocation to holiness lived in missionary discipleship?

Structures • How might parishes better become local centres for the formation and animation of missionary disciples? • How might the Church in Australia be better structured for mission, considering the parish, the diocese, religious orders, the PJPs and new communities?

Governance • How might the People of God, lay and ordained, women and men, approach governance in the spirit of synodality and coresponsibility for more effective proclamation of the Gospel? • How might we recast governance at every level of the Church in Australia in a more missionary key?

Institutions • How might we better see the future of Catholic education (primary, secondary and tertiary) through a missionary lens? • How might we better see the future of Catholic social services, agencies and health and aged care ministries as key missionary and evangelising agencies?

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BASILICA IN THE BUSH Chittering parishioners called to be a community of disciples of Christ W O R D S Jamie O'Brien

An important piece of history in the Archdiocese of Perth unfolded last weekend Sunday 6 June with the Dedication Mass of the new Divine Mercy Church in the parish of GinGin Chittering. The Romanesque style Church, built thanks to the donations of parishioners and benefactors near and far, was designed by local draftsman Peter Anthes and built by Rodney Naef. More than 850 people lined the pews and outdoor areas for the two-hour special occasion, on the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, celebrated by Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB. Speaking during his homily, Archbishop Costelloe, spoke of three thoughts, or gifts, for the congregation to remember. “The first comes to us from the authority voice of the Church with the Second Vatican Council. When in one of the major documents of that council, Lumen Gentium, the Church Fathers spoke of what the Church is really all about. “The Church is like a sacrament, that is the Church is a sign and an instrument of two things - communion with God and of unity among God’s people. “At the end of each day, if we wanted to examine how our day had gone, we might well ask ourselves, what part did I play today in showing that the Church is all about drawing ever more deeply into communion with God and

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also drawing ever more deeply into communion especially with my brothers and sisters in the faith,” Archbishop Costelloe asked the congregation. Archbishop Costelloe continued by speaking about St John Paul II, as the ‘Pope of Divine Mercy.’ “He had one favourite expression that he used over and over again,” Archbishop Costelloe said. “He said, ‘The Church is the community of disciples of Christ’. It’s such a simple idea, and yet again it’s so rich in meaning. The church is a community, not a gathering of isolated, independent people, but a community of people who are disciples of Christ. “And that means that we as a people know that rather than looking to each other, or only to each other, rather than looking to our own strengths and skills and talents, ultimately, we have to look to Christ. “Because we are his disciples, we follow him no one else. No one else. No other philosopher, no other politician, no other leader, we follow

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Christ and we build our lives on Him. And if this church, this church building, is to fulfill its potential, it will need to be a place where the only person ultimately upon whom we fix our eyes, is Jesus himself.” Joining Archbishop Costelloe for what was his third Dedication Mass in as many as six weeks, was Gingin Chittering Parish Priest Fr Paul Fox, Carlisle Parish Priest Fr Nicholas Perera and Indonesian Catholic Community Chaplain Fr Remi Asnabun together with several other priests from across the Archdiocese. The next thought, Archbishop Costelloe explained, came from Pope Francis, who referred to the Church as being a field hospital in the middle of a battle. “Pope Francis went on to say, ‘This is the great mission of the Church today, to be a healer of people’s wounds. “Then he added something - that we need to be not just a healer of people’s wounds, but a warmer of people’s hearts. “This Church, if it is to fulfill its potential where people can come and find healing of the wounds that are deepest in their lives, certainly, through the sacraments, especially the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Sacrament of the Eucharist, but also through the community that gathers here. “We need to be people who both come here for our own wounds to be healed, and come here so that we can help heal the wounds of others. “Because that after all, is what being a disciple of Christ looks like.” Speaking at the conclusion of Mass, Fr Paul Fox paid tribute to the many benefactors and parishioners who had contributed to the building of the new Church. “What a wonderful day of joy for all of us, as this magnificent Church is finally dedicated after our tenth year now; our work has finally come

to completion, our Lord has finally brought it to completion,” Fr Fox exclaimed. “The inspiration behind building this church in honour of Divine Mercy here in Western Australia was not only to cater for the needs of the parish, but to provide the numerous Divine Mercy prayer groups and the faithful of the Archdiocese of Perth with a beautiful and uplifting place of pilgrimage,” he said. “As a sanctuary of prayer and healing where all could come and be spiritually renewed at the foot of the Divine Mercy image.” Speaking exclusively to The Record, designer Peter Anthes, who also designed the Church of St Anne’s in Bindoon, said he drew upon the best traditions in Church architecture, using an inspiring copper domed cruciform stone Church, which would be an icon of faith and a desirable pilgrimage destination. “The Church is set in the beautiful Chittering Valley which is already a very popular destination for visitors,” he said. “I added a dome because of the size of the Church, as well as the attraction it has and to increase light,” Mr Anthes said. “I researched many buildings and churches from around the world, this is a practical style that will support the liturgy in an uplifting way. “It has been a great opportunity to grow in experience as a designer,” Mr Anthes concluded.

● Left Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe celebrated his third Mass of Dedication in as many as six weeks on Sunday 6 June. The Dedication Mass for the Church of the Divine Mercy was attended by some 850 people. Photo: Max Hoh.

Centre The new Romanesque style Church of the Divine Mercy was designed by Peter Anthes and built by Rodney Naef. Photo: Max Hoh.

● Right

GinGin Chittering Parish Priest Fr Paul Fox carries the book of the Gospels to the lectern to proclaim the Gospel during the Dedication Mass of the Church of the Divine Mercy on Sunday 6 June. Photo: Max Hoh.

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Bernadette embraces her mission, guided by God’s love W O R D S Amanda Murthy

“It’s nerve-wrecking to open up to the Lord and say yes I’m open to religious life,” Sr Bernadette explained. “But if it’s where you’re meant to be, it’s honestly the best thing you can do!” she said. Beginning of a life-long journey… I grew up in a loving Catholic family who were pretty connected to the Church. We went to Catholic schools, attended Sunday Mass, said grace before meals and regularly had priests over for dinner. When I was 16, I was really excited to be able to attend our parish Antioch youth group, and I felt that this was where my faith began to become my own and not just a family thing. In 2002, some of the older Antioch members attended World Youth Day in Canada and came back refreshed in a way that made me commit to being at the next WYD to see what it was all about. In 2005, when I was 21, I headed off to WYD in Germany, saving many pennies and overloading university subjects to make the trip possible. At the time I went, I was living the typical 21-year-old life; I had great friends, was pleased to have completed my university studies and had a boyfriend. After a series of events at WYD, including the opportunity to sit down and ask a priest many questions about the faith, and experiencing the love of God through a hymn “Open my eyes, Lord”, I truly felt loved by God, but, at the same time, I felt really challenged because I also felt He was calling me to change parts of my life, and I didn’t like it. Over the next three months of my travels in Europe, I was gradually able to respond to this call to be open, and upon coming home, I made some changes that altered the direction of my life. I began studying theology, joined a live-in young adult Catholic community and ended the relationship with my boyfriend. Upon my return from WYD in Germany, I had a new zeal for my faith and found that I wanted to share what had happened for me with others, as I felt that God had become very real in my life, which began the start of my missionary journey.

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Challenges in vocation life One of the biggest challenges I have faced in my vocation was the process of even discerning religious life in the first place. If it had not been for some amazing people along the way, who introduced me to silent retreats, spiritual direction and walked the journey with me, I would never have had the opportunity or courage to discern this call. Since joining the MGLs, I have questioned whether I was on the right track, and it has been difficult to bring this in openness and honesty to the Lord and discern it well. I think in any vocation there will also be times of dissatisfaction and difficulty, and this has been true at certain times of my vocational journey too, when our life limits me from doing something I would like to do or when I feel the ‘pinch’ of our life of poverty, chastity and obedience. At these times, I take comfort that every vocation involves sacrifice, and I remember the joyful and blessed parts about religious life.

What are the things that you value more, since joining religious life? Something that I truly value is that even though I have had to move away from my family, I feel closer to them, because I am drawing closer to Jesus, and he is helping me in my relationships with others. I also truly value the gift of praying with the Sisters, because their presence and commitment to prayer supports and sustains me in my prayer life. I value the gift of friendships and community, as we are members of the Disciples of Jesus Covenant Community and so we are often meeting, praying and ministering with other lay married and single people and families, which is such a blessing for me.

Passions and hobbies? I have a varied and ever-changing list of passions and hobbies, ranging from AFL (I barrack for the Hawks who aren’t doing so well at the moment!) as well as hiking, camping, playing guitar and singing. In my spare time you will find me playing board games with friends, reading the newspaper, watching movies or visiting art galleries.

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LIFELINK 2021: Find ways to be a joyful, hope-filled, servant community of God W O R D S Amanda Murthy

“Faith in action” is demonstrated each year through the Archbishop’s LifeLink winter appeal. This year was no exception – as representatives from Catholic Secondary and Primary Schools, gathered for a rare opportunity to dialogue with Perth Archbishop and Plenary Council President Timothy Costelloe SDB, and witness the official launch of LifeLink Day. Last year, LifeLink funded agencies reached out to help more than 37,000 WA families and individuals in need, delivering more than $60 million in caring services and professional programmes throughout WA. LifeLink agencies include the Catholic Ministry for People who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Centacare Employment and Training, Centrecare

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Inc, Djooraminda, Emmanuel Centre, Emmaus Community, Identitywa, Daydawn Advocacy Centre, The Shopfront, and Catholic Outreach. The role of Catholic schools’ play is vital. Throughout the year, staff and students work together to organise fund-raising projects, they volunteer their services, time and talents to support these agencies, and create awareness for the needs in the community. In his welcome address at both events, LifeLink Chairman Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton thanked all who are part of Catholic Education and the school community, for always accepting the challenge of raising awareness and funds and for genuinely spending their time and effort to care for those in need.

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The Secondary School event held at Aranmore Catholic College on 20 May, was conducted in a forum format, led by Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, Bishop Don Sproxton and Catholic Education Western Australia Executive Director Dr Debra Sayce, who took turns responding to feedback posed by the student representatives based on Archbishop Costelloe’s questions: 1. What new understandings or insights have you gained on discernment from my presentation today, and the discussions at your table? 2. Identify a specific time in your life when you had to make an important decision. What steps did you take to reach your decision? and 3. As a young Christian making important decisions, why might it be important for you to think about what Jesus might do as you prepare to make them? In his closing remarks, Archbishop Costelloe expressed his thoughts on decision making, encouraging the young people present to be opened to ‘giving things a go,’ even if the outcome is not always perfect. “I’m not a believer of regretting mistakes, but I think of a mistake as a step towards the right direction as it can still lead to a place that prepares me for what is to come,” Archbishop Costelloe cited. “Collaboration or co-labouring is key to get the best outcome – it is great to always seek advice from people you trust, and people who have the

experience to share. It is always important to have good people around you. “…..Following the same approach to life as Jesus did is so important, but in order to understand why Jesus did what He did, we have to understand His mind and heart. We can do this by learning about Him from the Gospels,” Archbishop Costelloe concluded. The Primary school event held at Newman College on 2 June, was delivered in the form of a personal sharing by Archbishop Costelloe, who talked about the Plenary Council, his experience in leadership, encouraging the young people to find ways to be a joyful, hope-filled, servant community of God. Video entries submitted by the LifeLink schools and students responding to several questions by Archbishop Costelloe - that connect the church in Perth to the on-going Plenary Council, were then played for the audience present. The questions posed by Archbishop were “How do LifeLink agencies answer God’s call to be a Christcentred Church in the Perth Archdiocese, that is Joyful, Hope-filled and a Servant Community?” and “What ideas and strategies can you suggest about how Catholic schools can support LifeLink financially, with prayer and practical support?” A new LifeLink promotional video, developed in collaboration with LifeLink secondary school students and staff representatives and the Archdiocese of Perth, was revealed at the close of both events.

● Bottom Left Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB engaging with Secondary School students at the LifeLink launch for Secondary schools on 20 May. Photo: Ron Tan. ● Bottom Left Students perform a dance routine at the Primary Schools launch. Photo: Ron Tan. ● Bottom Left Newman Principal John Finneran with students at the Primary Schools launch. Photo: Ron Tan.

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Perth Catholic volunteers shine in 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours W O R D S Jamie O’Brien, Matthew Lau and Amanda Murthy

Three prominent volunteers from Perth’s Catholic community are among the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for their exceptional service and achievements. Urban Developer Danny Murphy AM was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in the General Division for his significant service to urban development and the community, volunteer lawyer advocate Dr Betsy Buchanan OAM was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in the General Division for service to the community through social welfare organisations, and Applecross parishioner Giuseppe Rocco Cinanni OAM was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community through a range of roles. The 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours for Australia were announced on 14 June by Governor-General David Hurley. The list this year recognises 1190 Australians, including 84 WA recipients. Giuseppe Cinanni OAM – known as Joe to his peers – has been a parishioner of St Benedict’s Church, Applecross, for over 40 years, holding roles as former Parish Council member and later Chairman, Building Committee member, and continuing church grounds maintenance volunteer since the late2000s.

OAM Giuseppe Rocco Cinanni

The Booragoon resident has held many roles and been a fundraiser or volunteer of numerous communities, including Perth Soccer Club (formerly the Perth Italia Soccer Club), Catholic Children’s Homes, Catholic Care WA (now known as Identitywa), Italian Village Nursing Home Fremantle, Italian Club Fremantle, Abruzzo/Molise Association, and Italian/Australian Businessmen Association. Mr Cinanni has previously been recognised for his fervent support to bolster various areas of Perth’s community, including the Italian Community Award (Italo/Australian Welfare and Cultural Centre, 2017), Peter Giorgi Clubman Award (Perth Soccer Club), Merit Award (Perth Soccer Club), Life membership (Perth Soccer Club), and Life Membership (Italian Club Fremantle).

OAM Betsy Buchanan

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“I saw team sport as a way of keeping young men fit physically, mentally, and maybe even emotionally,” he explained. “My motto has always been: ‘whatever you do, do it well and do it now, because who knows what tomorrow brings … we just have to do good whenever we can’.” Betsy Buchanan OAM has been a volunteer lawyer advocate at Daydawn Advocacy Centre for some 14 years. She is credited with setting up the first community legal centre in WA in 1976 and was a former advocate with Aboriginal Medical Service Derbarl Yerrigan. In an interview with The Record, Dr Buchanan told the story of when she needed protection as a child growing up in the Wheatbelt town of Gnowangerup; it was the local Noongar women who looked after her. She has worked tirelessly ever since to repay that kindness with more than 40 years of volunteering for the Indigenous community. “The Noongar people have been great with reconciling, which is something the Catholic Church is committed to,” she expressed. “I am not goal-orientated; I follow what the Noongar people do, viewing Christ in each person – that’s how I read the Gospel as a child. Also, because of the Gospel story when the disciples didn’t recognise the Risen Christ until they saw His wounds. “Noongar people are so wounded, but their response to hurt has been Christ-like. We are all part of the history that was so traumatic for them,” Dr Buchanan added. “They are prepared to meet you as a person in a very Christ-like manner of not holding a grudge. The image of Christ is a person with deep wounds, not a

perfect person. Aboriginal people come to you and expose their wounds.” Speaking exclusively to The Record, Danny Murphy AM said receiving the award had been a humbling experience. “It is in these times you recognise the shared efforts of your work, particularly in my case with my wife Sue, who I have been blessed to work with over the past 40 years,” Mr Murphy said. Hailing from Adelaide, Mr Murphy served as chair of the Perth Archdiocesan Property and Investment Committee and as a member of the Finance Council from 1993 to 2006. The Murphys moved to Perth in 1992 when he was working on developing Ellenbrook. Mr Murphy re-joined the Archdiocesan Finance Committee in 2009 and served as Chair from March 2017 to WSeptember 2020. During this latter period, Mr Murphy was instrumental in strategically shaping and delivering key aspects of the Archdiocesan Strategic Plan 2016-2021. Mr Murphy’s commitment, expertise, strong leadership, and generosity of time have enabled the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth to implement a robust and future-focus series of strategic directions. “This work has been my way of giving back to the Perth community,” Mr Murphy stated. “In that time, I have served two Archbishops, which has been a pleasure, and met many wonderful people.” The Hon Kim Beazley AC, Governor of Western Australia, will formally invest Western Australian recipients with the insignia of their appointments and awards at an Investiture Ceremony this September.

● Top Right Applecross parishioner Giuseppe Rocco Cinanni OAM has been announced among the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours List. Photo: Supplied. ● Bottom Left Daydawn Advocacy Centre volunteer lawyer advocate Betsy Buchanan OAM has been announced among the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours List. Photo: Josh Low. ● Bottom

Right Urban Developer Danny Murphy AM has been announced among the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours List. Photo: Ron Tan.

AM Danny Murphy

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KOSHARY R E C I P E B Y Michelle Tan

Wandering along the streets of Cairo, the distinct sound and sight of Egypt’s national dish – Koshary, can be easily recognised. Food vendors swiftly ladle ingredients from large pots as their metal spoons knock against serving bowls. This humble dish is made from inexpensive pantry staples but provides warm comfort that makes you crave for more!

INGREDIENTS Crispy Onion Pieces • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced • A pinch of salt • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour • Cooking oil Zesty Tomato Sauce • 2 Tbsps cooking oil • 1 medium onion • 5 cloves of garlic • 1 tsp ground coriander • 1 tsp ground cumin • 1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes • 750g tomato passata sauce • 2 Tbsps white vinegar • Salt and Pepper to taste Koshary • 400g cooked chickpeas • 2 cups of elbow pasta • 1 1/2 cups of green or brown lentils • 1 1/2 cups of medium-grain rice, soaked in water for 20 minutes • 1/2 tsp ground coriander • Cooking oil • 3 cups of warm water

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METHOD Crispy Onion Pieces 1. Sprinkle the sliced onions with salt. 2. Toss in flour and shake off excess flour. 3. Fry onions over medium heat until they are nicely brown and caramelised. 4. Drain from oil and set aside. Zesty Tomato Sauce 5. Mince the onion and garlic separately. 6. Heat cooking oil and cook the onions until it starts to turn golden brown. 7. Add the minced garlic and spices and saute until the garlic turns golden brown. 8. Stir in the Tomato Passata Sauce and add a pinch of salt. 9. Simmer the sauce over low heat until it starts to thicken (about 15 minutes). 10. Add the white vinegar and remove it from the fire. Koshary 11. Rinse and cook the lentils in 4 cups of water over high heat. When it comes to a boil, turn the heat to low, leaving it to cook for another 13 minutes. The lentils should only be partially cooked. 12. Drain the lentils and season with a pinch of salt. 13. Drain the rice from its soaking water and put the rice in a clean saucepan with seasoned lentils. 14. Add in 2 Tbsps cooking oil, ground coriander, salt, and pepper, and stir regularly for 3 minutes. 15. Add in 3 cups of warm water and bring to a boil. Cover the saucepan and cook for 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Check that the rice is well cooked. Remove from heat and keep the saucepan covered and undisturbed. 16. In a different saucepan, place the elbow pasta in water, salt, and a few drops of oil.Cook until al dente. Drain and set aside. 17. To serve, fluff the rice and lentils and place them on your serving dish. Layer the dish with the elbow pasta and chickpeas. Pour on the zesty tomato sauce and garnish with the crispy onions.

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