The Record Magazine Issue 45 [September 2024] by The Record

Official magazine for the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth

To mark the 30th anniversary of LifeLink and 25th anniversary of the Archbishop’s LifeLink Day Initiative, a light show featuring large colourful images was displayed on the exterior of the front of St Mary’s Cathedral.

Photo: Michelle Tan.

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER AND EDITOR

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

PRODUCTION

Michelle Tan michelle.tan@perthcatholic.org.au

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Bibiana Kwaramba bibiana.kwaramba@perthcatholic.org.au

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Phone 08 9220 5900 Email therecord@therecord.com.au Address 21 Victoria Square, Perth WA Postal Address PO Box 3075, East Perth, WA 6892

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

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“Young man, I tell you to get up. And the dead man sat up and began to talk...”

— Luke 7: 11-17

Welcome to Issue 45 of The Record Magazine. Happy 150th anniversary to all our readers! On 6 July 2024, we marked 150 years since The Record was launched in 1874 by Fr Matthew Gibney and then-Administrator, the Very Rev Fr Martin Griver. Our 45th issue of The Record celebrates the occasion with a historical recount on pages 12 to 15, with a special announcement of The Record Magazine as the recipent of the 2024 Australasian Catholic Press Association’s highlycoveted Bishop Kennedy Memorial Trophy.

Our thanks to Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, current Episcopal Vicar, Effective Communications and Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton and former Vicar General and Episcopal Vicar, Effective Communication, the Very Rev Fr Peter Whitely VG for their leadership in guiding the mission and vision of The Record and indeed, communications for the Archdiocese of Perth. Our thanks to our sponsor, the University of Notre Dame Australia for their most generous support.

Don’t forget that these and many more stories are available at www.therecord.com.au.

Diocesan Assembly: First Assembly of the 21st century

Record - 150 years of good news for Perth

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY COSTELLOE SDB

Listening in a synodal church involves non-defensive listening

In his closing speech for the Diocesan Assembly on Saturday 13 July, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB spoke about the role of listening and discernment in the proposed Pastoral Council.

“Pope Francis has said often and many of you would have come across this many times - a synodal church is a Church, which listens. He’s talking about, at the universal level, the faithful people of God. Now remember, the faithful people of God, going back to what Fr Vincent reminded us of this morning - is all of us. Sometimes, people talk about the people of God, as if it’s distinct, somehow, rather, from the priests and the bishops. The faithful people of God, is all of us. Because as Fr Vincent stressed so beautifully and so strongly this morning, we’re all equal, because we’re all baptised into the community of disciples. So, it’s the faithful people of God, listening to each other. And then all listening to the College of Bishops, while the College of Bishops listens to the faithful people of God, and then the faithful people of God and the College of Bishops, to the Bishop of Rome, who equally is listening to the College of Bishops, and all the people. And Pope Francis will talk about a mutual listening, in which everybody has something to learn. And he says, this is the way we can begin to listen and discern the voice of the Holy Spirit. And the other thing Pope Francis says, is that listening is much more than simply hearing. We can hear each other and dismiss it. We can hear this noise and not allow it to be anything other than noise that we forget immediately afterwards. Listening is a different thing altogether. And some of you have heard me talk about this before, if I, as I’ve tried to think this through for myself, I’ve come to the point of talking about what I call non-defensive listening. Listening in a synodal church involves non-defensive listening and what does that mean? To put it simply, I think it means that if I listen, in order to see whether the other person is smart enough to agree with me, that’s defensive listening. That I just want to have

my own point of view confirmed. And if I don’t, well, they’ve obviously not understood the issue properly. That’s defensive listening. Non-defensive listening is when I am prepared not to abandon what I believe, but to put it to one side, to listen with an open heart and an open mind to what other people are saying. And then perhaps, to allow what I’m hearing to be brought into engagement with what I think, because then I might begin to see something new in the whole point. So I really wanted to stress this because if our Diocesan Pastoral Council is to avoid the trap of the previous ones, and a kind of just run out of steam, we can’t afford to fall into the trap of a Council that operates on the principle of defensive listening, that we’ve got all the answers, that we’re going to tell the rest of the people in the Church what they have to do. And if they don’t go along with it, it just shows you how blind and stubborn they are. I don’t want a Diocesan Pastoral Council that operates that way. Now, this is easy to say. But even as you reflect on the three sessions we’ve had today, some of you might be able to reflect that actually, “I can understand what the Archbishop is saying, because I was kind of listening to see whether other people were agreeing with me. But I wasn’t really listening to see if there were some gems, some insight, some beautiful gift of the Holy Spirit in what they were saying that I wasn’t prepared to hear.”

My hope is that this approach to being the Church, will begin to percolate through everything that we do. Already for the last two or three sessions, for example, of our Council of Priests, which is a body of priests that provide advice to me, we’ve tried to run those Council of Priests meetings, on this model. If Parish Pastoral Councils could adopt this model, that would be great. If school staff could adopt this model, that would be great. I think there’s something in this approach to a deep and respectful listening, which offers a hope for all of us, not a blind optimism, but a hope founded in faith.”

+ Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB

OF PERTH

Bishop Sproxton stands in front of St Mary’s Cathedral where a light show featuring large colourful images drawn by CEWA students was displayed on its exterior to mark the 30th anniversary of LifeLink and 25th anniversary of the Archbishop’s LifeLink Day Initiative.

Photo: Michelle Tan

BISHOP DON SPROXTON

Feast of St Mary MacKillop 30th Anniversary of LifeLink and 25th Anniversary of LifeLink Day Speech

St Mary MacKillop had a keen awareness of disadvantage, not just because she was able to see the suffering around her in others, but because she had her own personal experience of being without. She loved her parents very much because of their love and all they did for her.

Her father was a very educated man and could dream very large dreams. These dreams many times came to nothing and were costly to his family, so they would have tough times to live through, and would have to struggle to meet their needs. Her father was a good man but not always practical.

Mary’s life had its twists and turns as do we in life.

To help her family, she was able to find work in Melbourne when she was just sixteen. But a job that her uncle and aunt offered her in Penola became a defining moment for the rest of her life.

The job was to be a governess, to look after their children and to teach them. She was young, but already she could recognise the needs of others. So, seeing the opportunity to teach the other farm children she included them in the daily lessons.

This led her to become a teacher in the school in the nearby town. She was noticed by Fr Julian Tenison-Woods and one thing led to another and she discerned the work that God was calling her to follow for the rest of her life.

Mary heard the voice of God in the needs of those children and her vision began to be enlarged to see the need for education for children in remotest areas of Australia. Education is the pathway out of poverty: something Mary understood.

Her life from there on was about responding to the needs of others: the education of children and teachers; shelter for girls and women who were abused or living in poverty; care for the aged and people with disabilities.

She founded the Sisters of St Joseph, who carried on her vision through their dedication to serve those in need in the same spirit.

It is on her feast day that we honour a great hero of Australia.

Mary teaches us in our own times. What she learned; she passes on to us. This is found in the new song to Mary MacKillop we used at the beginning of our liturgy.

“I feel joy when things go well, and an equal joy, when things go wrong. Because I see God’s will.”

Mary learned to listen to the voice of God that she discovered in the small and large things in her life. It is the voice of God who loves each of us and we can trust. She would examine each day and bless God for the good things, even the things that went wrong, for with the Spirit of Jesus she trusted that she would continue to grow in faith and as an image of Christ to others.

“Do not worry…. Your heavenly Father knows your needs…. set your hearts on the kingdom first and on God’s saving justice, and all the other things will be given to you as well.”

These words of the Gospel remind us of another thing that Mary passed on to her Sisters. She set her heart on the kingdom of God. Whatever she strove to do, it was for the glory of God. Many times, the projects would seem impossible, yet she believed that if they were in line with the plan of God, all would be provided for as God stirred the hearts of benefactors.

LifeLink helps us the recognise the needs of others and to find a way of helping.

We will soon see in the light show that follows the good that is done through our social service agencies and how the kingdom of God grows today with our help.

+ Bishop Donald Sproxton AUXILIARY BISHOP OF PERTH

Diocesan Assembly: Delegates gather for first Assembly of the 21st century

For the first time in more than 30 years, the Archdiocese of Perth has on Saturday 13 July held an Archdiocesan Assembly.

More than 100 delegates from parishes, agencies and offices across the Archdiocese gathered for the occasion, including nominated clergy, religious, and lay delegates.

The 2024 Assembly, operating within the framework provided by Canon Law, focussed on investigating, considering, and formulating practical strategies for pastoral works and initiatives with the diocese –namely on establishing a Diocesan Pastoral Council that reflects the way of synodality as emphasised by Pope Francis.

A Diocesan Pastoral Council, as outlined in Canon Law, is a consultative body offering support and advice to the Bishop. For Perth, the aim is to create a council that embodies “synodality,” a collaborative approach encouraging participation from clergy, religious figures, and lay Catholics.

Led by Vicar General and Episcopal Vicar for Education, the Very Rev Fr Vincent Glynn, the delegates of the Assembly were asked to reflect, listen and discern specific questions over three sessions, each lasting nearly an hour.

The Assembly commenced with Iona Presentation College Dean of Mission and Catholic Identity, Gemma Thomson opening the day as MC, before welcoming speeches by Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton and the Very Rev Fr Vincent Glynn.

Looking back on his experience of the first Assembly in 1990, Bishop Don spoke about his experience of the events at the time, which brough the Year of Mission to a close.

Working with the Pastoral Planning Office, Bishop Don, who was Parish Priest of Wogan Hills at the time, together with Mercy Sister Joan Smith RSM and Year of Mission consultant Robin Beech were tasked with developing better communication between the Pastoral Planning Office and the clergy.

“In some ways, that Assembly was like a synod as it produced three outcomes that were to be implemented across the Archdiocese,” Bishop Sproxton explained.

“These were the development of an integrated communications network; parish renewal and the future of parishes; and ongoing participation of the people of the Archdiocese in decision making,” he said.

Looking back on his experience with the first Assembly in 1990, Bishop Don spoke about his experience of that, which brough the Year of Mission to a close. Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth.

The liturgical display included the Book of Gospels, flowers and a candle. Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth

SJOG Group Director Mission Integration, Tara Peters, continued the day by hosting a session focussed on the theme, ‘Journeying together led by the spirit,’.

Delegates, undertaking the listening and discernment process, were invited to, “Reflecting on the scripture passage 1 Corinthians 12: 1, 4-11 and attuning our hearts to the synthesis report of the journey we have been on during the last 12 months, what speaks to you most?”

Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB closed the Assembly, speaking about the “See” “Judge” “Act” methodology of Belgian Cardinal Joseph Cardijn who founded Young Christian Workers

“See, which is to acknowledge what the situation is, Judge and then Act,” Archbishop Costelloe explained.

“This morning, we didn’t start with the See. We started with prayer,” Archbishop Costelloe he said.

Drawing on his experience of the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia, Archbishop Costelloe recalled how some deeply challenging moments were overcome because organisers had decided to spend at least 20 minutes in a deep, contemplative and well-prepared prayer experience.

“…if we enter into the discernment process, through a deep prayerful experience, that will change, everything, it will change the way we see each other,” Archbishop Costelloe emphasised.

Continuing his speech, Archbishop Costelloe noted in the context of ‘Judge’, he prefers to use the word ‘Discerning’, particularly in light of the fact that we are all trying to read the signs of the times.

“Often people quote, Gaudium et Spes about discerning or scrutinising the signs of the times, and leave out the last part, ‘In the Light of the Gospel’.

“If we’re disciples of Jesus, our decisions about how we move forward and how we organise ourselves and what decisions we might make - if they’re not made in the light of the Gospel, then they’re not decisions of disciples.”

Looking at the method of ‘Act’, Archbishop Costelloe reflected on the feedback from the Listening and Discernment sessions, which included comments about mission.

“One of the challenges the Church faces is that it can so easily become self-referential,” Archbishop Costelloe expressed.

“Pope Francis is very insistent on his belief that the Lord, at this stage in our history, is inviting us very consciously and very deliberately, to become a missionary oriented church.

“A (missionary) Church which looks outward to what we can do for others, rather than a Church that looks always inward to how we can sure up our falling numbers or something like that,” Archbishop Costelloe continued.

“And maybe, if we shift from a maintenance approach to the Church to a missionary approach to the church, the beauty of our faith in the attractiveness of the Christian gospel will become more obvious to more people. And all of a sudden, the Church will begin to grow in numbers,” Archbishop Costelloe said.

One of the next steps for the Assembly, Archbishop Costelloe explained, is for the information and feedback that was generated at the Assembly to be collated and will be presented to him so that decisions can be made on how to move forward.

Archbishop Costelloe noted he will be supported by a soon to be formed Implementation Advisory Committee, which will help him to discern the kinds of questions the Assembly Delegates have been talking about in terms of makeup of the Council, its membership and function.

“In other words, I’d like it to be a Synodal Discernment Council, rather than anything else,” Archbishop Costelloe explained.

SJOG Group Director Mission Integration, Tara Peters, continued the day by hosting a session focussed on the theme, ‘Journeying together led by the spirit,’. Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Vicar General and Episcopal Vicar for Education, the Very Rev Fr Vincent Glynn, addresses the delegates. Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Delegates share their insights. Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Delegates share the fruits of their listening and discernment insights. Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe speaks at the conclusion of the Archdiocesan Assembly, Saturday 13 July 2024. Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth.

WA Catholic Education Commission Chair, Eva Skira AO listens to fellow delegates. Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Delegates, undertaking the listening and discernment process, were invited to, “Reflecting on the scripture passage 1 Corinthians 12: 1, 4-11.

Photo: Samuel Chan/Archdiocese of Perth.

SPECIAL REPORT: The Record 150 years of good news for Perth

One of Australia’s oldest Catholic publications has on 6 July 2024 marked its 150th anniversary.

The Record, the official publication for the Archdiocese of Perth, was founded by then Father Matthew Gibney, later Bishop, and then Administrator, the Very Rev Fr Martin Griver OSB on 6 July 1874. However, the history of The Record would not be complete without first discussing, in brief, the history of its predecessor in the field of Catholic journalism, The Morning Herald

Although The Morning Herald was not the official organ of the Catholic Church in Western Australia, it was common knowledge that it was founded and run by the Church as a business enterprise. Its purpose was not to propound doctrines of faith and morals, but simply to make money.

The first edition appeared on 2 May, 1867. Its price was 6d.

It was a weekly publication, printed and published at first by Pearce and Bereford at the office of The Morning Herald, Cliff Street, Fremantle. For 40 years it struggled on being more of a financial burden than a success until, in 1908, it went out of

circulation. By this time the paper had increased in size to eight pages (four sheets) but the price has dropped to 1d. The last edition appeared on 29 September, 1908.

The Catholic Church, having profited by the experience gained from The Morning Herald, decided in 1874, seven years after the establishment of the then-struggling Herald, to found another paper but this one was not a business enterprise, and was to be based on religious lines. The paper was far more successful than the first attempt of the Catholic Church in Western Australia to plunge into the world of journalism.

It was to be the official paper of the Church in Western Australia and was to be established as shall be seen in the following chapter, by Fr Matthew Gibney and to bear the title of The West Australian Catholic Record

The undertaking was a serious one because of the financial position of the Church in the colony at that time. “If progress was to be made and the political and religious rights and freedom of the Catholics

Fr Matthew Gibney was a founding member of The Record in 1874. Photo: Archdiocesan Archives.

Then Diocese of Perth Administrator, Bishop Martin Griver, was the founding Bishop of The Record Photo: Archdiocesan Archives.

The front page of the first issue of The Record Magazine featured Archbishop Costelloe opening the Holy Door of St Mary’s Cathedral at the commencment of the Year of Mercy. The magazine was published as a 32 page gloss style in March 2016, just in time for Easter and was distributed to 20,000 people - including parishes and schools across Perth and Western Australia. Photo: Jamie O’Brien.

were to be maintained, aid of the Press was necessary.”

Now published in two formats – The eRecord , published weekly and distributed via email, which commenced in October 2014, and The Record Magazine, published quarterly as a 32-page gloss magazine which commenced in 2016 – The Record commenced publication in a generation when there was little room for Catholic matters or Catholic opinion in the local secular press of the time. It was said to be the sole public voice of the handful of Catholics against the bitter prejudice and intolerance of the majority who, according to historical records, “refused Catholics a measure of justice and even ordinary civic rights.”

Together with Mr JT Reilly, and with the approval of the Very Rev Fr Griver, a printing press and plant was purchased at a cost of £120 and removed with difficulty through the heavy sand from Perth to Subiaco, where it was set up in one of the large rooms in the orphanage.

The first edition was printed on silk, and was in the possession of the first editor, Mr JT Reilly, until his death, when it was passed into the keeping of the then Bishop Gibney.

Among the contributors to the first edition were Fr Gibney and Fr O’Reilly, both of whom subsequently wore the mitre.

Fr Gibney went on to succeeded Bishop Griver as the third Bishop of Perth in January 1887 and Fr O’Reilly became the second Archbishop of Adelaide in 1894. At the time, there was unending controversy on education. Freemasonry, the

treatment of natives, etc.

In an article published in on 11 December 1937, The Record was said to have become a formidable propagandist weapon, and its strong position in the community at the time was made possible thanks to the foresight, courage and enduring patience of pioneers Fr Matthew Gibney, Mr JT Reilly and the Very Rev Fr Martin Griver.

Current Editor Jamie O’Brien, who commenced in the role in 2014, has had a long association with The Record , starting out as a freelancer in the early 2000’s under the first lay-Editor David Kehoe, becoming a full-time staff member from 2004 to 2006, under then-Editor Peter Rosengren, returning in 2014 to take the reins.

The last edition of The Record as a newspaper was published on 26 July 2014, with The eRecord commencing 2 October. It started with a readership of about 500 people which quickly grew as word spread of the new online edition.

Mr O’Brien highlighted it was The Record Review of 2013 – one of many over 150 years - that has made the publication what it is today and thanked current Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, current Episcopal Vicar, Effective Communications and Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton and former Vicar General and Episcopal Vicar, Effective Communication, the Very Rev Fr Peter Whitely VG for their leadership in guiding the future of the publication.

“With a readership of more than 25,000, several awards with particular mention of the Australasian

2014: New Directions: Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, former Communications & Media Manager James Parker, then Senior Communications Officer and Editor, The Record, Jamie O’Brien and The Record Review Committee Chairperson Jo Wilkie look over past editions of The Record, following the announcement of changes to The Record Newspaper. Photo: Mathew De Sousa.

Right:

Religious Press Association’s Gutenberg Award in 2018 and now the Australasian Catholic Press Association’s Bishop Kennedy Memorial Award in 2024, The Record still has a significant place in the life of the Church in Perth,” Mr O’Brien said.

“I am also so very grateful to our readers, our colleagues, our sponsors, our families and our friends who have shown significant support.”

With more celebrations planned for later this year and into 2025, Mr O’Brien said he hopes The Record will continue to be appreciated and understood as a platform of the 21st century showcasing the history of the good news in Perth.

“Given our current climate, it is so very important that we never forget the importance of being messengers of the Good News,” he said.

“I am constantly hearing stories from readers and Catholics across Perth, and indeed Australia, how their parents and grandparents were avid readers of The Record , and because of this they are too,” Mr O’Brien concluded.

Top Right: The first edition of was published on 2 October 2014. It included a digital version that parishes could print for those who didn’t use or have access to the internet. Above, left: The first edition of The Record Newspaper of 6 July 1874. Above Right: Adelaide Archbishop Patrick O’Regan, Bishop’s Delegate for the Australian Catholic Bishops Media Council, with Archdiocese Perth Manager, Communications and Editor of The Record , Jamie O’Brien, Production Officer Michelle Tan and immediate past president for the Australasian Catholic Press Association, Neil Helmore, from the Diocese of Townsville. On Tuesday 28 August, The Record was awarded the ACPA Bishop Kennedy Memorial Award for Excellence. Photo: Ryan Maclandag.

Pope Francis Connects with

In an unprecedented and inspiring event, three students from Notre Dame’s Sydney campus had the extraordinary opportunity to meet and engage with His Holiness Pope Francis via a Zoom call. This special occasion was part of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America’s “Building Bridges” initiative, which fosters dialogue between young people and the Vatican.

The participating students, Liam, Jemima, and Marissa, represented Notre Dame among a select group of university students across Oceania. The event provided a platform for these young voices to share their concerns and aspirations directly with the Pope.

Liam expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity, “When I was first approached with the chance to be part of the Building Bridges initiative, I was thrilled. It’s rare to get such an opportunity for a Zoom meeting with the Pope!”

The session included a series of preparatory meetings where students discussed the topics they wished to present. Key issues raised during the meeting with Pope Francis included the denigration of the family in society, the importance of community support, and the pervasive issue of loneliness among young people. Liam highlighted a quote from Pope Benedict XVI that resonated deeply with the group:

Notre Dame Students in Zoom Session

“Men in a totally planned world will find themselves unspeakably lonely. If they have completely lost sight of God, they will feel the whole horror of their poverty.”

Liam recounted the Pope’s compassionate and attentive responses during the session, noting that Pope Francis addressed even the most challenging topics with gentleness and charity. “It was good to hear what issues were on the hearts of other students in Oceania,” Liam added. “While some students brought forth issues that are against the Church’s teachings on morals, the Pope answered with Charity, speaking the truth with love.”

The students also had the chance to engage in breakout sessions where they could interact more closely with the Pope. Reflecting on this unique experience, Liam said, “Having the successor of Peter wave at you is a pretty cool experience! It ignited my passion for the Catholic Faith and made me grateful to experience such an event.”

This meeting with Pope Francis provided a memorable and inspiring experience for the students and underscored the importance of fostering dialogue and understanding within the global Catholic community. As Liam eloquently said, “One of the most significant takeaways from the Building Bridges initiative is that though we got to take our concerns to Rome, charity starts at home.”

Sr Rita remembered for legendary commitment, love and compassion

Rita Goodchild arrived in Perth, Western Australia with nine much younger women and entered convent of the Presentation Sisters on 28 December 1950. Photo: Supplied.

Much loved Presentation Sister Rita Goodchild PBVM - one of only two survivors of a tragic boating accident in 1959 has passed away at the age of 94. Arriving in Australia from her home of Cork in Ireland in December 1950, Sr Rita was a spirited woman who possessed a deep faith and transformed many lives over the years through her role as educator, Sister and friend.

Fellow Presentation Sister Lucy Van Kessell PBVM paid tribute to Sr Rita in the Eulogy.

Sr Rita Goodchild was born in Cork, Ireland on 7th October 1929, to Richard and Christine, the second youngest of five children.

After completing school, Rita, came to Western Australia with nine much younger women and entered the convent on 28 December 1950. She made her First Profession on the 26 January 1954. In 1959, two days after her Final Profession, Sisters Rita and Aquinas survived a tragic boating accident in Mandurah. The accident claimed the lives of Mothers Patricia Lynch and Finbarr Tarrant, Sr Joachim Delahunty and Fr Joseph O’Hara, a young Irish Catholic priest.

The Mandurah drowning tragedy was the catalyst

for the government to find the Sea Rescue Group in Western Australia in 1961.

In 2021, on the 60th anniversary of the Mandurah Marine Rescue Group, Sisters Aquinas and Rita were made Honorary Life Members of the Marine Rescue. After a short time recovering, Rita spent some years at Rivervale, then Goomalling teaching. One past Rivervale student wrote “She was very kind to all the students, a great infant teacher and was loved by all the children. We have beautiful memories of her.” She was devoted to the children she taught with a special love for the first nations children in Mullewa. Her ministry in education took her to many city and country towns including Mandurah, Cloverdale, Collie, Brunswick Junction, Boyup Brook, Mullewa with repeat visits to several places.

After more than 30 years teaching Rita came to live at Iona and started a second ministry to the children at Rocky Bay Village. Her commitment, love and compassion for the children were legendary.

Blessed with a wonderful ability to relate gently with the residents and staff, Sr Rita taught the children about Jesus and His love. She assisted them with Sacramental preparation, Baptism, First Holy Communion and Confirmation.

She gained Government approval to be a Special Religious Instructor of denominational classes in government schools in 1992.

Rita borrowed videos, books and tapes from the Catholic Resource Centre to aid her lessons in faith instruction. She was presented with a certificate for being a Volunteer, at a Mosman Park Town Council ceremony in 2007. This was recognition for her services to the residents of Rocky Bay Village, Mosman Park over a decade or more. She actually completed more than three decades of voluntary service.

As ill-health took hold, with sisters and nurses trying to plan for her daily care, Rita foiled all such plans, as was her way. Like Frank Sinatra she “Did it her Way”, even to going to God quietly in her sleep after acknowledging that “my life is in the hands of God now”.

We extend sincere sympathy to her loving family who mourn her loss and are grateful to Dr Prendiville and all other medical personnel who cared for her over many years.

Rita was one who followed the maxim “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”. She truly “fought the good fight, ran the race and kept the faith”. Her daily prayer ended “When all life’s sorrow and strife are oér, like a child returning from distant places to seek a welcome of Heaven’s door” – may she now be welcomed at Heaven’s door.

Sr Rita Goodchild passed away on 10 June and her funeral Mass was celebrated at Cottesloe Parish St Mary Star of the Sea Church on 28 June.

The memory of that day, and the subsequent loss, remained clear in her memory and she carried an unshakeable faith in Jesus’ presence in her life. Image: Archdiocese of Perth.

SPECIAL REPORT:

St Mary MacKillop had a keen awareness of disadvantage, says Bishop Sproxton

WORDS Jamie O’Brien

The 30th anniversary of LifeLink and 25th anniversary of the Archbishop’s LifeLink Day Initiative were reason to celebrate on the Feast of Mary MacKillop.

More than 150 people, including representatives from 23 Archdiocesan primary schools, gathered for the liturgical service at St Mary’s Cathedral led by LifeLink Chair and Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton, assisted by Catholic Education Director of Religious Education, Deacon Mark Powell.

Representing the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart for the occasion was Sr Francis Maguire RSJ.

To mark the occasion, a light show on the exterior of the front of St Mary’s Cathedral featuring large colourful images celebrating the Feast Day of St Mary of the Cross McKillop, LifeLink Day, the work of LifeLink agencies, and examples of the primary schools’ students creative “paper people” - messages of hope for our brothers and sisters in need in the community.

The light show was displayed for three consecutive nights from 8 to 10 August to celebrate and remember the example of St Mary of the Cross McKillop. In his speech for the occasion, Bishop Sproxton explained that St Mary MacKillop had a keen awareness of disadvantage, not just because she was able to see the suffering around her in others, but because she had her own personal experience of being without.

“Mary teaches us in our own times. What she learned; she passes on to us. This is found in the new song to Mary MacKillop we used at the beginning of our liturgy,” Bishop Don explained.

“I feel joy when things go well, and an equal joy, when things go wrong. Because I see God’s will.”

“Mary learned to listen to the voice of God that she discovered in the small and large things in her life,”

Bishop Don continued.

“It is the voice of God who loves each of us and we can trust,” he said.

“She would examine each day and bless God for the good things, even the things that went wrong, for with the Spirit of Jesus she trusted that she would continue to grow in faith and as an image of Christ to others.

Bishop Sproxton concluded his speech by noting the words of the Gospel of the liturgical service are a reminder of another thing that Mary passed on to her Sisters.

“She set her heart on the kingdom of God. Whatever she strove to do, it was for the glory of God. Many times, the projects would seem impossible, yet she believed that if they were in line with the plan of God, all would be provided for as God stirred the hearts of benefactors.

“LifeLink helps us to recognise the needs of others and to find a way of helping,” he concluded.

Cathedral Dean Rev Dr Sean Fernandez speaks during the liturgical service for the anniversary of LifeLink and LifeLink Day. Photo: Ron Tan/ Archdiocese of Perth.

Representing the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart for the occasion was Sr Francis Maguire RSJ. Photo: Ron Tan/Archdiocese of Perth.

More than 150 people, including representatives from 23 Archdiocesan primary schools, gathered for the liturgical service at St Mary’s Cathedral. Photo: Ron Tan/Archdiocese of Perth.

CEWA Executive Director Wayne Bull speaks during the liturgical service for the anniversary of LifeLink and LifeLink Day.

Photo: Ron Tan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Catholic Education Director of Religious Education, Deacon Mark Powell speaks during the liturgical service for the anniversary of LifeLink and LifeLink Day. Photo: Ron Tan/Archdiocese of Perth.

50 Years of faith, skill and a dying craft

WORDS Joseph Younes

In a quiet workshop in the northern suburbs of Perth, just 10 minutes from the CBD, 83-year-old Robert Bonolo stands as a master of a nearly extinct craft— antique metal restoration.

His journey began when he was just 21, fuelled by eight years of studying chemistry at night school. “I studied the electrolysis of metals in night school and decided to get into this,” he recalls. Now, more than 50 years later, he remains one of only two people in Western Australia, and one of just a handful across the country, who possess the skill to restore antique metal works.

Robert’s workshop, a mini museum and studio, is filled with pieces that tell stories of history, faith, and beauty.

But to Robert, his work goes beyond the technical— it is a vocation, a calling deeply intertwined with his Catholic faith. Born in Vicenza, 70 kilometres from Venice, Robert arrived in Australia in 1954 at the age of 12, without his parents.

“In 1954, I came to Australia, without my parents, stayed with my aunty and uncle who had no children,” he shares. Three years later, he moved to Perth alone, driven by a determination to forge his own path.

For decades, Robert has laboured in his unassuming workshop, where the oldest and most treasured metal artifacts in Western Australia have been brought back to life. He has restored countless church items, statues, and sacred objects, including work at Saint Patrick’s Basilica in Fremantle, Saint Brigid in Perth

and St Columba’s South Perth. “I’ve been restoring church items for over 50 years,” he says. “Any religious items that are not used, I recycle.”

Bishop Robert Barron, a prominent international Catholic figure, often speaks about evangelising through the true, the good, and the beautiful. Robert’s life work embodies the latter. “I’m Catholic,” he affirms, “and God is always above me and guides me in my work.” Through his craft, Robert reveals the beauty that draws souls closer to God.

Each restored chalice, statue, or chandelier is more than an object—it’s a manifestation of divine beauty, echoing Bishop Barron’s belief that beauty can lead us to truth and goodness.

Over the years, Robert’s reputation has spread far and wide. “Priests around the Archdiocese know me,” he says with humility. His work has taken him beyond Australia to places like Rome and Venice.

“I’ve worked in Rome and in Venice,” he says, with photos and memories from those places adorning his workshop. Yet, despite his international experiences, Robert remains deeply connected to his roots in Perth, where he has spent a lifetime restoring the sacred and the beautiful.

Married to Clare with three “beautiful” children—two boys and one girl—and six grandchildren, Robert treasures his family above all.

“I treasure my family,” he says simply, a reflection of his deep love and commitment. His faith and family are the pillars of his life, guiding him as he continues

Robert Bonolo with his wife Clare. Photo: Jamie O’Brien.

his work. “I try to get 99.9 per cent on results when I work,” he says, a testament to his dedication and pursuit of excellence.

As Robert nears the end of his career, he is eager to pass on his knowledge and skills, but he is looking for more than just a technical apprentice. “I’m looking for someone of faith, someone who wants to do work for the Church,” he explains.

His craft, he believes, is a sacred duty, and he hopes to find a successor who shares this understanding. There are only three to four people in total across Australia who do this work, and sometimes they send him their most challenging pieces.

The future of his craft, as he sees it, must be entrusted to someone who sees it as a calling, not just a job. Through his hands, Robert Bonolo has evangelised more powerfully than he ever could with words alone. His workshop is more than just a place of work; it is a sanctuary where he serves God by preserving the beauty that points to Him.

Ultimately, Robert’s life is a testament to the Catholic principle of stewardship and the transformative power of beauty.

Through his work, he has shown that even in the most unexpected places—like an old workshop in Perth—God’s presence can be revealed, and hearts can be moved closer to the divine.

Works of art created by Robert Bonolo. He has restored countless church items, statues, and sacred objects, including work at Saint Patrick’s Basilica in Fremantle, Saint Brigid in Perth and St Columba’s South Perth. Photo: Jamie O’Brien.

Robert Bonolo in his workshop, in Dianella. For Robert, his work goes beyond the technical—it is a vocation, a calling deeply intertwined with his Catholic faith. Photo: Jamie O’Brien.

Words of Deuteronomy fulfilled: Redemptoris Mater Seminary celebrates 30

years of the Lord letting us know the way forward.

WORDS Jamie O’Brien

The Lord has a way of letting us know the way forward, Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton has said, in celebrating the 30th anniversary of Perth’s Redemptoris Mater Seminary.

Concelebrating the occasion on 15 August at St Mary’s Cathedral with Bishop Sproxton was Vicar General, the Very Rev Fr Vincent Glynn, Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey, Seminary Rector Michael Moore SM, Fr Tony Trafford from the National Responsible team of the Neocatechumenal Way, Cathedral Assistant Fr Kenneth Acosta as MC and assisted by Deacon Jupiter Bin Justin. Redemptoris Mater, meaning Mother of the Redeemer in Latin, operates under the auspices of the Neocatechumenal Way and have as their mission the formation of diocesan priests for the new evangelisation. There are more than 120 Redemptoris Mater Seminaries worldwide.

Several priests from the Archdiocese of Perth also concelebrated for the occassion, many of those who had attended Redemptoris Mater Seminary for their formation, while seminarians from both St Charles and Redemptoris Mater served as acolytes.

Speaking about the historical events that led to the inauguration of Redemptoris Mater Seminary, Bishop Sproxton said Redemptoris Mater is known and respected for living in the providence of God.

“The fruits of Gods providence are the 44 priests and three deacons who have been ordained,” Bishop Sproxton emphasised.

“And we should include the men who came to the seminary to discern deeply if priesthood was their true calling from God. Every one of them have received something in the formation that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives, in whatever vocation they follow,” he continued.

This spirit of providence, explained Bishop Sproxton, enables the priests and deacons to minister with freedom in whichever mission is proposed to them: whether it be in their home here in the Archdiocese of Perth or in another local church.

“The seminary has provided the Archdiocese with the ability to send priests to those places for the new evangelisation, as Archbishop Hickey emphasised on that day of the foundation,” Bishop Don said.

Speaking about the historical events that led to the inauguration of Redemptoris Mater Seminary, Bishop Sproxton said Redemptoris Mater is known and respected for living in the providence of God. Photo: Ron Tan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Redemptoris Mater Seminary Rector Fr Michael Moore said in his 30 years as Rector, he has had the privilege to see the seminary appear out of nothing. Photo: Ron Tan/Archdiocese of Perth.

The gospel for the Mass on 15 August was proclaimed by Deacon Jupiter Bin Justin. Photo: Ron Tan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Several priests from the Archdiocese of Perth also concelebrated, many of those who had attended Redemptoris Mater Seminary for their formation. Photo: Ron Tan/Archdiocese of Perth.

Recalling the inauguration of Redemptoris Mater Perth, Rector Fr Michael Moore SM said today all of us, filled with wonder and awe, reap and enjoy the fruits of a small seed sown, in one of the most isolated cities of the world, on the night of 15 August 1994.

“In these 30 years I have had the privilege to see this seminary appear out of nothing,” Fr Michael said.

“What is written in the Book of Deuteronomy has been fulfilled: “in all those years that I (Yahweh) led you through the wilderness, your clothes did not wear out, nor did the sandals on your feet,” he continued.

Speaking about their role as the National Responsibles of the Neocatechumenal Way in Australia, Toto and Rita Piccolo and Fr Tony Trafford, said they profoundly thank God for his help, through the intercession of the Mother of his Son, in preparing and sustaining many seminarians to discern their vocation.

“What had been a very small nursing home called Mt Carmel started to become, always through God’s providence, the beautiful and attractive Redemptoris Mater Seminary we know.

“More than 40 presbyters have been ordained and are spending their lives announcing the Gospel in Perth, around Australia, and in the other continents,” Mr Piccolo said, speaking on behalf of the responsible team.

“We are very grateful to the founders of the Neocatechumenal Way, Kiko Arguello and Carmen Hernandez (dec) whose vision and courage have given to the Church more than 120 Redemptoris Mater Seminaries throughout the world.

“May the Lord reward them immensely for this gift to our generation. We also thank Archbishop Emeritus Hickey for his courage and foresight in requesting the seminary, and our current Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, who has accepted and believed in the vital mission of the Seminary for the Church of today,” Mr Piccolo concluded.

Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey also spoke about his experience of the inauguration of Redemptoris Mater Seminary, saying he was not sure he was making the right decision at the time.

“Tonight has been a wonderful experience for me personally; the memory of Gods hand and inspiration of the Holy Spirit to make me take a step, but I wasn’t all that sure I was making the right decision,” Archbishop Emeritus Hickey explained.

“How can a diocese have two seminaries,” he said, in recalling his thoughts.

The need for a missionary seminary became evident, Archbishop Hickey added, remembering it was the Holy Spirit and prayer and faith of other people who spoke to him about the need for a Redemptoris Mater Seminary and news of how they were spreading around the world.

“We needed a missionary seminary, and that convinced me. It had to be special, and it has been,” he said.

Above: The first group of Seminarians sent to Perth in 1992 came from six nations. Photo:Redemptoris Mater Seminary.

Top: The construction of the Sanctuary of the Word in 1997, and left, the first Ordination to the Priesthood of Joe Pelle and John Hogan, in 1997, at St Mary’s Cathedral. Photo: Redemptoris Mater Seminary.

Blessing of the Foundation Stone, 31 May 1997. Photo: Redemptoris Mater Seminary.

Ann Cullity remembered for creating beauty and inspiring meaning in the world

Cottesloe parishioner Ann Cullity will be remembered for knowing the meaning cultivation- how to nurture, have purpose, pay attention, connect, transform, and, most importantly care.

In honour of Mrs Cullity, The Record is publishing a eulogy provided by her daughter Kate.

Ann Cullity was born to Sir Thomas and Margeurite Meagher, as one of six children – her siblings included brothers Phil, Tom and Tim, sister Sara and youngest brother Denis. Sadly, Ann’s mother died at the age of 48. We affectionately called her father Dadda Tom, and Doris his second wife, known to all as Deed, or DeeDee, was always our grandmother. Mum gained a love of plants and gardens from both her parents. She often told a wonderful story of how her mother planted a Jacaranda which kept sprouting seedlings. Her father would put them up and, as a GP doctor, would give them to his patients. Mum believed that the abundance of Jacarandas in Victoria Park today is from that one tree. While Mum loved her school days at Loreto, she

referred to her years at WA University as her Halcyon days. She revelled in the social life and the freedom—particularly as life at home was far from easy. Her mother had debilitating cancer, and Ann was trusted with assisting in the care of her three much younger siblings. Always the multitasker, Ann juggled looking after the young ones at home and caring for her mother, studying biological science, with a major in Botany, and keeping up a busy social life.

At University, she made many lifelong friends, including Rosie McAlleer, her bridesmaid. Mum and Dad married in October 1952, when she was 23 and he 24. Nine months later Daniel was born. Her mother willed herself to stay alive to see her first grandchild, and then died a week later. This was the first of the many life-challenging events for Ann. The joy of giving birth to her first child, and the immense sadness of her much-loved mother dying at the tender age of 48. Dan, Margy and Mary were all born a year apart, and me two years later. Denis followed, then Joe, the twins Ruth and Sara and lucky last was John. In all, Mum had 9 children in 12 years - a major feat.

Mrs Ann Cullity was a patron, trustee, and committee member of 22 organisations, and a founding member of six committees and organisationsincluding the Kings Park Guides, Scitech Discovery Board, the WA Open Garden Scheme, and the University of WA Centenary Trust for Women. Photo: Supplied.

Mum had the ability to be extremely practical during the day, and very glamorous at night. She tendered and oversaw a large one-acre garden and was particularly adept at fixing irrigation. Mum could also change tack quickly. Sometimes around 4pm or even later, Dad would ring up and say, ‘Honey, I’m bringing home 5 Norwegian businessmen for dinner. Mum would rush down to the shops for supplies, come back, feed all of us, prepare a dinner for the guests, dash off to her room, and come out looking fabulous. She would then proceed to thoroughly entertain Dad’s colleagues.

Mum had a great facility for friendship and being inclusive. She often said that you need to ‘attend your friendships like you cultivate your garden’. She also excelled in being optimistic and light-hearted with people and seeing the glass half full. One of her sayings that particularly resonated or us was ‘If you think of doing something nice for someone, just do it.’ She also had a great capacity for including people who were struggling.

Mum’s sense of public service never wavered, and even with nine children, she was always involved in

community activities. Over her lifetime, she was the president or chair of seven boards and committees, with the chair of Kings Park board being her favourite She was also a patron, trustee, and committee member of 22 organisations, and a founding member of six committees and organisationsincluding the Kings Park Guides, Scitech Discovery Board, the WA Open Garden Scheme, and the University of WA Centenary Trust for Women.

She received five honorary awards including an Order of Australia.

Ann was a gardener of the human spirit; she knew the meaning of cultivation- how to nurture, have purpose, pay attention, connect, transform, and, most importantly care.

She grew relationships and tended to life’s experiences. She created beauty and imbued meaning in the world, which radiated ever outwards to the benefit of many.

Read the full version at www.therecord.com.au

Denis and Ann Cullity with Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey, Auxiliary Bishop Donald Sproxton and former Vicar General Fr Brian O’Loughlin at St Thomas More College Chapel in 2008, when Mr and Mrs Cullity were bestowed Papal Honours. Photo: Archdiocese of Perth.

Schnitzel with Mushroom Sauce

RECIPE Michelle Tan

INGREDIENTS

• 4 x 150g Boneless Pork Chops

• Salt

• Pepper

• 2 tsp Paprika

• 2 tsp Garlic Powder

• 1 cup Flour

• 2 Eggs

• 2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs

• Oil

METHOD

MUSHROOM SAUCE

• 2 Tbsp Butter

• 1 Onion, finely chopped

• 3 Garlic cloves, finely minced

• 450g Button Mushrooms, sliced

• 4 Tbsp Butter

• 4 Tbsp All-purpose Flour

• 2 cups Stock

• ½ tsp Salt

• ½ tsp Sugar

• ½ tsp ground Black Pepper

• 3 Tbsp Heavy Cream

1. Place each piece of boneless pork chop in a ziplock bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound individual pork chops to an even thickness of ¼ inch. Remove from bag and set aside.

2. Sprinkle each piece with salt and pepper.

3. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika and garlic powder. Coat each piece of pork with the flour mixture and shake off excess.

4. In a different large bowl, whisk the eggs. Dip each piece of pork into the egg mixture.

5. On a large plate with panko crumbs, lightly coat each piece with crumbs and shake off excess.

6. In a deep skillet over medium heat, heat at least 15cm of oil. When hot, dip the end of the schnitzel to check if it sizzles. Carefully place each crumbed pork chop and cook until deep golden. Flip the schnitzel to cook the other side.

7. Set aside the pieces of schnitzel.

8. In a different skillet, melt 2 Tbsps butter and fry the onions until brown. Add minced garlic and cook an extra minute.

9. Add mushroom slices and cook until golden and liquid has evaporated.

10. Add and melt the additional 4 Tbsps of butter. Add the flour and stir continuously to combine.

11. After 3minutes, add the stock of your choice with the remaining spices. Stir continuously until gravy thickens. Add additional salt and pepper to taste.

12. Add heavy cream and stir in on low heat.

13. Serve gravy with schnitzel.

Photo: Adobe Stock