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INSIDE
New dock for beloved chaplain
Mgr O’Shea calls time on his Rottnest ministry Page 3
Can’t keep a good people down
How East Timor is putting its past behind it Pages 10-11
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LOCAL
Round-Up CHRIS JAQUES
Elderly Abuse A renowned expert on elder exploitation and abuse will be in Perth to talk about her work on the issue, which affects an estimated 12,500 Western Australians. Bridget Penhale, UK Reader in Mental Health of Older People at the University of East Anglia, will be keynote speaker at a symposium to raise community awareness of this important topic. Jenni Perkins, Director General of the Department for Communities, said the symposium would also feature a panel discussion on the Western Australian experience. “As our population ages, this is a topic that will affect more and more people. I encourage anyone with an interest in the field to attend.” The Preventing Elder Exploitation and Abuse Symposium will take place on June 12 at 10am in the Health Department theatrette, 189 Royal Street, East Perth. The symposium is free and bookings are essential through www.trybooking.com/ BMZF or contact Diana Grove at Department for Communities on 6551 8531. Refreshments are provided. For more information about the talk, visit the Department for Communities website at www.communities.wa.gov.au.
Lumen Christi in Italy Nineteen of the Italian students at Lumen Christi College enjoyed an eye-popping trip to Italy just after Easter. During a packed two week itinerary the group visited many ancient buildings, places of worship and other sites of significance in famous cities such as Milan, Verona, Perugia, Florence, Venice, and of course Rome, the seat of the
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June 6, 2012
Luminous tour for Italian students
Catholic Church. Though not able to meet the Pope, visiting St Peter’s was a remarkable experience. In each location there was so much to absorb and enjoy. Among the many highlights, memorable activities included climbing all 247 steps to the top of Il Duomo in Milan, visiting the Colosseum and St Peter’s in Rome. On the day trip to Pisa students were fascinated by the leaning tower. Great fun was had posing for leaning photos in front of the tower. The history, architecture, artwork and, of course, the lovely food and fabulous shops all contributed to making the trip such a rewarding adventure. Fond memories of so many good times will be remembered and shared for many years to come.
Riverton welcomes The parish of Our Lady, Queen of Apostles, Riverton, was honoured to welcome Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB to the celebration of the feast day of its patroness on Friday, May 25. His Grace was the main celebrant at the well-attended Mass where the choir excelled in singing the praises of the Lord and parish patron, his Blessed Mother. At the conclusion of Holy Mass, the Year 4 students of the Queen of Apostles School gave a spirited performance of a liturgical dance in the church, which was greatly appreciated by the congregation. At the supper which followed in the Fr John Luemmen Hall, parishioners said they were impressed by the approachability of the Archbishop and his ability to put people at ease. Many of them took the opportunity to meet His Grace personally and expressed their happiness at the experience.
Above: They didn’t get to meet the Pope but they had a good time besides, reported Lumen Christi College’s touring party to Italy. The 19 youth and their teachers visited St Peter’s and sites throughout the country shortly after Easter. Below, children from Our Lady, Queen of Apostles, Riverton, participate in liturgical dance. PHOTOS: LUMEN CHRISTI; E D’SOUZA Saints Greenwood on Saturday, June 16. Mr Falzon will speak about The Journey of a Man at the 8-10am event (entry costs $20 cash). Mr Falzon founded menAlive in 2003 with Peter Shakhovskoy and a small group of men. The organisation exists to encourage men in their relationship with God and understanding of themselves. Mr Falzon is also the author of the widely-circulated How to Grow a Men’s Ministry. Robert Falzon will also be a guest speaker at Sydney’s SCENE evangelisation conference, July 11-15, where he will present a talk - “IN HIM” - and two pub workshops. For more - 0414 537 023.
Men alive at breakfast Robert Falzon, founder of menAlive, will speak at a Men’s Breakfast at All
SAINT OF THE WEEK
READINGS OF THE WEEK Sunday 10th - White THE BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST (SOLEMNITY) 1st Reading: Ex 24:3-8 Covenant blood Responsorial Ps 115:12-13, 15-18 Psalm: Cup of salvation 2nd Reading: Heb 9:11-15 Perfect sacrifice Gospel Reading: Mk 14:12-16, 22-26 My body, my blood
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Classifieds/Panoramas/Subscriptions Catherine Gallo-Martinez
These apostles share a feast as founders of the church in Rome. Peter, a Galilean fisherman chosen by Christ as one of the Twelve Apostles, became the undisputed leader of the fledgling church after Pentecost. Paul, a Pharisee and Roman citizen who had persecuted Christians, became after his dramatic conversion the church’s greatest missionary, its “apostle of the gentiles.” By tradition both were martyred in Rome. Their adventures are recounted in the Acts of the Apostles, and letters from them are included in the New Testament.
Monday 11th - Red ST BARNABAS, APOSTLE (M) 1st Reading: Acts 11:21-26, 13:1-3 A good man Responsorial Ps 97:1-6 Psalm: God’s salvation Gospel Reading: Mt 10:7-13 No gold or silver
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Tuesday 12th - Green 1st Reading: 1 Kgs 17:7-16 As the Lord foretold Responsorial Ps 4:2-5, 7-8 Psalm: A greater joy Gospel Reading: Mt 5:13-16 You are salt, light
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Wednesday 13th - White ST ANTHONY OF PADUA, PRIEST, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH (M) 1st Reading: 1 Ks 18:20-39 The Lord is God
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Ps 15;1-2, 4-5, 8, 11 My portion and cup Mt 5:17-19 Complete the law
Thursday 14th - Green 1st Reading: Th 1 Kgs 18:41-46 Torrential rain Responsorial Ps 64:10-13 Psalms: Water for the earth Gospel Reading: Mt 5;20-26 Virtue with depth Friday 15th - White THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS (SOLEMNITY) 1st Reading: Hos 11:1, 3-4, 8-9 I am the Holy One Responsorial Is 12:2-6 Psalm: Glorious deeds 2nd Reading: Eph 3:8-12, 14-19 Special grace Gospel Reading: Jn 19:31-37 Jesus’ side is pierced Saturday 16th - White THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY (M) 1st Reading: Isa 61:9-11 I exult for joy Responsorial 1 Sam 2;1, 4:8 Psalm: My heart exults Gospel Reading: Lk 2:41-51 In her heart
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Still getting stuck-in after 75 years in this State By Robert Hiini THE Catholic Women’s League (CWL) celebrated its 75 year presence in Western Australia on Sunday, May 27 with a special Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral, Perth. The congregation included more than 100 CWL members from throughout the state - from Geraldton to the Southwest - as well as several seminarians and invited guests. Emeritus Archbishop Barry Hickey was joined in celebrating Mass by past National Chaplain, Fr Tim Foster; Bunbury Diocesan Chaplain, Fr Wally Kevis and St Charles’ Seminary’s Dean of Seminary Life and First Year Formator, Fr John O’Reilly. State CWL Treasurer, Maria
Parkinson said the occasion was an acknowledgement of the 1937 founding members as well as those who have been, and those who still are, part of the organisation. She said it was an opportunity to
Catholic Women’s League members have been enriching the State for more than 75 years now. showcase the importance of CWL in parishes throughout Western Australia. The CWLWA banner was processed into the Cathedral, carried
by Life Members, Georgie BruceSmith (Busselton) and Anne Power (Kukerin). Cathedral Dean, Mgr Michael Keating welcomed all present, sharing that his mother had been a member of the Highgate branch in years past. At an after-Mass reception, long service certificates - for ongoing members who had served for 40 or more years - were presented. Recipients included Kath Berg, Molly Indermaur, Alice Gee, Anne Power, Fay Jones and Georgie Bruce-Smith. In her remarks, State President Karyn Kammann acknowledged invited guests from the Anglican Mothers Union, Knights of the Southern Cross and the Jewish Women’s Association of WA.
Catholic Women’s League members Georgie Bruce-Smith, Anne Power, Jan Hynes and Lil Scantlebury with St Charles’ seminarians. PHOTO: CWL ATTRIBUTION HERE
New dock for Island’s beloved chaplain By Robert Hiini WHEN someone finishes up in a role he’s been in for more than 50 years, one might expect him to wax lyrical about the experience. This Sunday, Mgr Sean O’Shea will celebrate his final Mass as Rottnest Island Catholic chaplain – a position he has held since Archbishop Redmond Prendiville made the appointment in 1961. But when Mgr O’Shea phoned The Record this week he was more concerned about getting newlyconfirmed Rottnest resident, Singithi Megana Keyzer, 12, into the paper. “She wants to send a copy to her grandmother back in Sri Lanka,” Mgr O’Shea said of Singithi, whose father is a cook for one of the island’s restaurants. Mgr O’Shea gave Singithi instruction in the lead-up to her being confirmed by Bishop Donald Sproxton on Sunday, June 3. “Oh yes, she’s a smart girl. And as an altar server, she’s spot on,” Mgr O’Shea said. Singithi and her family have lived on the Island for around nine months. She attends the island’s primary school with around nine other pupils. The Confirmation Mass took place on Holy Trinity Sunday, at Rottnest’s Holy Trinity Church, built at Mgr O’Shea’s direction in 1975 (Mass had previously been celebrated at the Island’s picture theatre). After next Sunday, Mgr O’Shea will head off to Ireland to visit his 90-year-old brother. When he gets back, he will “clear out” to Castledare Village in Wilson. He expects to be happy there, with an onsite chapel in which to celebrate Mass. “Well, of course, it’s a bit of a break but there you are. One gets on in years and has various (health) problems,” Mgr O’Shea said. Arrangements are being made to supply a fill-in minister until a permanent solution can be found. “I’m hoping that there will be a priest who will put his hand up and say they are willing to go to Rottnest,” Mgr O’Shea said, adding that he never felt isolated on the Island. “There are always people around the Island and its people are very nice. We see a cross section of Western Australians coming to Mass and it’s a privilege to meet them and welcome them,” he said. In 1961, Mgr O’Shea was appointed chaplain to the Port of Fremantle which included celebrating Mass on Rottnest. Years of ministry to seafarers at the Stella Maris Centre in Fremantle followed. His ministry also took in stints at Cottesloe Parish as well as work for
Mgr Sean O’Shea and Bishop Donald Sproxton with newly-confirmed Rottnest Island resident Singithi Megana Keyzer, 12.
the Pontifical Council for Migrant and Itinerant People in Rome from 1987-1991. He has lived on Rottnest Island for the past 11 years after retiring from duties at St Mary Star of the Sea, Mosman Park. In 2009 he was awarded a Papal Medal for making an outstanding contribution to the Church, and was also awarded the Des Sullivan Medal by WA Tourism Minister Liz Constable for his contribution to Rottnest Island. The Monsignor wants to be buried on the island, within the grounds of the Holy Trinity Church. “The grave is dug but it’s just waiting for its occupant,” Mgr O’Shea said. The Rottnest Island Authority has given its approval but final authority rests with the relevant state minister. There will be no special celebration when Mgr O’Shea finishes up on Sunday. The Monsignor said he was happy to have enjoyed lunch with Bishop Sproxton on Monday. When asked if he had anything he wanted to say for this article, he gave a characteristically humble and understated answer. “Thank you to all the people who came to Rottnest,” Mgr O’Shea said. “It was a privilege to serve the people.”
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June 6, 2012
Modern in 1962, still relevant today SAINT Cecilia’s Parish in Floreat is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Hundreds of parishioners celebrated the occasion with a special jubilee Mass on April 29, presided over by Bishop Don Sproxton and concelebrated by parish priest Fr Wayne Davis and resident priest Fr Vincent Glynn. Fr Wayne said the anniversary was a great achievement. “The parish life is healthy and parishioners wanted to celebrate this day with great joy,” he said. To commemorate the anniversary, the parish also commissioned an art sculpture by Perth artist Peter Graham which sits in the parish garden. “The design that came up was the symbol of the harp,” said Fr Wayne. “But also the strings for the harp were made from a palm branch, which is the symbol
I have always tried to get people to see that the church is a parish family. for the martyrs of the Church.” St Cecilia was one of the Catholic Church’s early martyrs. She was also the patron saint of music and song was a major focal point of the Mass. Harpist Tony Madewell played during Mass and the choir loft was filled with singers. Music from the church’s organ filled the building. Another celebration Mass is planned to coincide with St Cecilia’s feast day in November. The church was designed by architect Raymond Jones and built in 1962. “It was very modern for its time,” says Fr Wayne. “It holds the honour of also being once published in the Australian version of Encyclopaedia Britannica.” Fr Wayne said the church is an important part of the parish community. “When we have a beautiful church like St Cecilia’s, it enhances the liturgy and celebrations the parish has as a community.” Parishioners celebrated after Mass with a fair. Volunteers helped serve a sausage sizzle and Devonshire tea, while children were
Above, congregation and clergy celebrate St Cecilia’s 50th anniversary on April 29. Right, Bishop Don Sproxton is joined by Fr Vincent Glynn and parish priest Fr Wayne Davis in front of the parish’s specially commissioned harp sculpture commemorating the occasion. Far right, children enjoy the festivities on offer at the after-Mass fair. PHOTO: COURTESY OF ST CECILIA’S
kept entertained with a bouncy castle, face painting and balloon creations. “I’ve always tried to get people to see that we are a parish family and that we care for each other,” said Fr Wayne. “When we celebrate, we celebrate as a family.”
Fr Wayne said it was a wonderful day and shows the parish spirit is still alive and strong. “The Church still is very relevant in our modern world. It will always proclaim the message, and the way it does that is through the people who make up our parish communities. St Cecilia’s
has a very large and vibrant community that does much, not only within our own parish, but also ... in the wider community.” Fr Wayne thanked Bishop Don for helping celebrate the Mass and said it showed the importance of St Cecilia’s in the wider Church
community. “We are all called to show the face of Christ in the world, community and parish we live in,” he said. More celebrations are planned throughout the year and you can find out about them at floreatwembleyparish.org.au.
Motherhood pried open and prized in art award YOUNG artists have been challenged by a Christian art award with its theme ‘born of a woman’, (Galatians 4:4), raising questions on the role of the mother in modern family life and what it means to be a woman. Among the many young artists having a tilt at the $5,000 Mandorla Youth Art Award’s St John of God Health Care Prize for an Emerging Young Artist, are University of Western Australia students James Cheng (medicine) and Olivia Monte (landscape architecture). Mr Cheng said he thought the inclusion of a youth category to the Mandorla Art Award has opened the Christian community up to having a living dialogue with the wider youth community. He said the theme raised important questions about the child’s obligation to the parent that were relevant to Christians and non-Christian members of the community. “My entry is a painting that depicts a family meal - mother, father and son. I used this template to explore the dichotomy in Jesus’ relationship and his responsibilities to both his parents, divine and human. “I wanted the piece to be one which not only functions as a religious work, but can also be viewed
and appreciated by someone with no knowledge of Christianity.” As a medical student, Mr Cheng said his studies gave him an appreciation for life and people that inspired his work. “My art has always seemed to focus on people, and studying the science underlying the complex
I came to really appreciate Mary as a woman, a person who had a hard life and an extraordinary duty. mechanics of human life has made me appreciate the incredible density and intricacy of even the simplest of human interactions.” Landscape architectural student Olivia Monte has called on her appreciation of the natural world to tell her story. “My Mandorla piece depicts a grand tree with roots that are embedded into the traditions of Judaism, which refers to being born under the Jewish Law. “The tree’s central body contains a montage of the iconic Catholic moments of Mary’s holy life, Jesus being the focal point.
Mandorla Youth Art Award entrants James Cheng and Olivia Monte with curator Camilla Loveridge.
“This is an emphasis of Mary being the vehicle through which the Messiah gains life into our world,” Monte said. “I have come to really appreciate
Mary as a woman, a person who had a hard life and an extraordinary duty as the mother of God let alone the mother of a human,” she said. Entries for the 2012 awards
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
closed on June 1, with the winners to be announced on August 10. The winner of the overall Mandorla Art Award stands to gain the $25,000 St John of God Health Care Prize.
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Abortion’s pain spurs Perth woman to witness Susan (not her real name) is in her 20s and told The Record why she took part in the Walk and Rally for Life on May 22.
What has been your personal experience of the issue? Abortion was one of those touchy subjects that I tried to avoid and ignore until it just couldn’t be ignored anymore. One of my best friends, a Catholic girl who was engaged to be married, told a group of friends that she had an abortion … She just killed her baby. I couldn’t relate to this, but I could feel her pain at that moment. It wasn’t an easy choice for her, surely. So I asked her why she did it. It turned out that abortion wasn’t exactly her ‘choice’. She wanted to keep the baby but her fiancé was worried about the financial and emotional dilemma that would come with a child. Moreover, they’re in the middle of planning for a wedding. And, of course, there was the general cloud of shame and guilt that hangs over being a pregnant bride on the wedding day – her getting pregnant wasn’t exactly part of the plan. So together they’ve made the decision to abort the child in her womb. After I went home, I reflected on everything I’d been told and was confused as to what I was supposed to do? My friend just made a
How did you find the Walk as an event? And how did you find the experience of public witness? It made me feel connected to the Pro-Life community and it was inspiring to see Church leaders together with WA Pro-Life politicians at work together on this issue and, to my surprise, praying over the city of Perth and the State for an end to legal abortion. I think the Walk was an act of putting faith into action. As the group braved the cool evening chills to walk down Fraser Avenue in King’s Park and Malcolm Street to Parliament House, we showed strength in numbers. I pray that the Holy Spirit will move us forward, as we get bigger and bigger every year until our parliamentarians take notice and put an end to legal abortion.
Walk and Rally for Life attendees with seminarians from St Charles’ Seminarians.
bad choice, but it was not unlawful. It wasn’t exactly a crime, or was it? Why did you decide to attend the Walk and Rally for Life? The issue that I have with abortion is that human life is not respected for its own sake but is
Northam students consider possibility of youth group
treated as a thing to be acquired, or discarded, according to personal lifestyle and convenience. Christopher West said, “If marriage is the fundamental cell of society, sexual union is the fountainhead of culture. “Oriented toward love and life,
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
it builds a culture of love and life. Oriented against love and life, it builds a culture of utility and death.” Premarital sex may lead to unwanted pregnancy, and it may lead to abortion. Surely, this isn’t the way God wanted to reveal his life and love in the created world.
Are you optimistic or pessimistic about changing attitudes towards life, and why? Like I said before, abortion was one of those touchy subjects that I tried to avoid and ignore. Until it happened to my friend. So, as (people) begin to understand how victims of abortions are not only the children themselves, but also their mothers, fathers, grandparents, brothers and sisters who carry the hurts and wounds of the loss of the baby, hopefully [they] will start to reflect on this issue and, next year, join in solidarity with other Western Australians as we resiliently fight this ‘culture of death’ and choose life. The Walk and Rally for Life was organised by the WA Coalition for the Defence of Human Life.
Child’s Bible - ‘God Speaks to His Children’ The Catholic Church’s most successful Child’s Bible ever! Feed a Child with the Word of God
Worldwide, the Church is under attack Beautifully illustrated by Spanish nun, from atheistic regimes, militant Islam, Miren Sorne, this delightful Child’s bible is sects and basic ignorance of the Faith. available for a donation of $7.00. The international Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) is able to counter these attacks by supplying Child’s Bibles to children and families who simply cannot afford them, in countries where the Church is poor or persecuted. Since its launch in 1979, ACN has printed and distributed 48 million copies of God Speaks to His Children in 167 languages. It is the Catholic Church’s most successful Child’s bible ever!
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Rosary from the Holy Land
Simple in design and yet profound in its symbolic significance, the olivewood rosary, handmade in Bethlehem by Christian families struggling for survival, are also available for a donation of $7.00. All proceeds will go towards the work of Aid to the Church in Need for the poor and persecuted Church worldwide.
This inspiring book can also teach the Faith here in Australia: with your family, godchildren, or in your parish or school. The Child’s Bible is a perfect gift for children, grandchildren, nephews and nieces, especially to mark a First Holy Communion. The Bible complements the catechism and children’s rosary booklet also published by ACN and available via our website.
BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED THROUGHOUT
YOUNG people of St Joseph’s Parish in Northam recently enjoyed an early morning breakfast at the school to discuss the possibility of establishing a parish youth group. Students from Years 4 to 10, along with Father Dominic Savio and school staff, discussed three questions: what they already enjoy about Mass, what would they like to include to make it more meaningful for them, and – if a youth group existed – the sorts of activities they would like to do within that group. Primary Religious Education Coordinator Michelle Izzard said it was great to see a substantial turn out of students from both the
school’s campuses willing to be involved and to contribute their ideas. A follow up meeting is planned to discuss how students’ suggestions can be incorporated into parish life. St Joseph’s was also due to celebrate on Thursday, June 7 the contributions of the religious orders which founded the current school. St Jospeh’s was established in 1971 with the merger of two schools established, respectively, by the Marist Brothers and the Sisters of St Joseph of the Apparition. Meanwhile, Mrs Caroline Parnham is serving as Acting Principal from June 2 to July 6.
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Students consider the possibility of establishing a parish youth group at St Joseph’s parish in Northam. PHOTO: COURTESY ST JOSEPH’S SCHOOL
48 Bible stories from the Old and New Testaments Available for a donation of $7.00 A lovely gift idea!
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June 6, 2012
Crime destroying Mozambique’s society: Orders THE ORGAN trade, kidnapping, murder, rape and armed robbery have become so rife in Mozambique that the southern African nation’s citizens have been reduced to hostages in their own country, Catholic religious orders based in Mozambique have announced. In a dramatic appeal, the Conference of Religious Institutions in Mozambique (CIRM) took a forthright stand against the rising tide of violence in the southeast African coastal nation, declaring, “We publicly protest against the violence that afflicts our nation and claims innocent human lives.” The wave of brutal attacks is not even sparing the religious, wrote Francisco Lerma Martínez, Bishop of Gurúè in the northeast of the country, in a letter to the interna-
tional Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN). The causes for the exploding crime wave are widespread poverty and glaring social inequali-
One life is much more valuable than any large scale project or financial investment, Catholic orders urge. ties, he wrote. According to the United Nations, Mozambique is the fourth-poorest nation in the world. Around 23 million persons currently inhabit the country, which
measures 786,000 square kilometres. The appeal of the religious institutions continues, “Organ trade and human trafficking, rape, kidnapping, murder, armed robbery – all these acts of violence reduce citizens to hostages in their own country. “We cannot imagine our nation developing without fundamental human values. “These are not negotiable – on the contrary: one human life is much more valuable than any largescale project or financial investment. “We appeal to the civil population, non-governmental organisations, the media and all persons of goodwill to discuss ways to break out of the spiral of violence.”
Bishop Martinez collects firewood in Gurue, Mozambique. Firewood is the only source of energy for the vast majority. PHOTO: ACN, REINHARD BACKES
Leaks offer few clues to power plays By Cindy Wooden DEPENDING on what commentary one reads, recent leaks of internal Vatican memos and private letters to Pope Benedict XVI are the work either of praiseworthy whistle-blowers or criminal moles. Gianluigi Nuzzi, the Italian journalist who published a book based on dozens of private Vatican documents, said his main source was part of a group of Vatican employees who wanted to “help” Pope Benedict XVI clean up the Church by revealing evidence of corruption, infighting and power struggles. But Archbishop Angelo Becciu, a top official in the Vatican Secretariat of State, said leaking the material was “behaviour unjustifiable from every point of view”. Writing in the Vatican newspaper on May 29, a few days after the Pope’s personal assistant, Paolo Gabriele, was arrested on charges of possessing stolen documents, the Archbishop insisted that one cannot steal documents and publish them in the name of renewing the Church. “There cannot be a renewal that quashes moral law,” he wrote. On May 30, Pope Benedict himself voiced regret over the scandal, and deplored “increasing conjecture, amplified by the communications media, which is entirely gratuitous, goes beyond the facts and presents a completely unrealistic image of the Holy See”. He also affirmed his trust in all those who help him “in silent faithfulness and with a spirit of sacrifice.” Yet Pope Benedict isn’t the first pope, even in recent history, to receive unsolicited and questionable help from anonymous Vatican employees. In 1999, when Blessed John Paul II was Pope, a retired Vatican official named Mgr Luigi Marinelli anonymously published Via col Vento in Vaticano (“Gone with the Wind in the Vatican”), a book targeting career climbing and abuses of office. Like Nuzzi’s book, it shot to the top of the Italian best-seller lists. Filled with examples of greed, corruption and immoral conduct, the book did not include stolen confidential documents, and generally did not name names, except when trying to show how prelates who had been seminary classmates joined forces to promote favoured candidates to high positions in the Vatican or in Italian dioceses. The Roman Rota, a Vatican canonical court, deemed Mgr Marinelli’s book libellous and ordered him to have his publisher halt its distribution. Whatever the motivations of those responsible, leak scandals
Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, left, and Cardinal Angelo Sodano. For years, rumours have bubbled around the Vatican over spats between curial officials aligned with the two cardinals. PHOTO: CNS, PAUL HARING
then and now have been fuelled by the public’s prejudices about the Vatican - the aura of mystery, power and wealth that are much more the stuff of trashy novels than reality. Of course, an institution so old is bound to have a chequered past, including a fair share of sleaze, influence-peddling and patronage. The Vatican may be the site of more prayer and good works per acre than any other state on earth, but it is still run by people. This human factor ensures it’s not heaven on earth. For years, rumours have bubbled around the Vatican about spats between curial officials aligned with Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Vatican secretary of state, and those loyal to his predecessor, Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals. Much of the tension supposedly
flows from the divergent styles of leadership, organisation and personal relations of two men from very different backgrounds. Cardinal Sodano and his closest
The Vatican’s aura of mystery, power and wealth are much more the stuff of trashy novels than reality. collaborators attended the Vatican’s diplomatic academy and put in time at nunciatures around the world before taking high positions in the Roman Curia. Cardinal Bertone, a Salesian, served as a professor, a diocesan bishop and as secretary of the
Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith under then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger before being named to the top curial post. According to Gianluigi Nuzzi, the first leaked documents he released back in January illustrated the duel between the Sodano and Bertone blocs. In several 2011 letters to Cardinal Bertone and Pope Benedict, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, who was then secretary-general of the Governor’s Office of Vatican City State and is now nuncio to the United States, warned of corruption, abuse of power, a lack of transparency in awarding Vatican contracts and opposition to his efforts to enact financial reforms. Nuzzi said Archbishop Vigano was part of the Sodano bloc, and that Cardinal Bertone had him transferred to Washington in October
2011 because the Archbishop had angered Vatican employees used to spending freely and powerful Italian businessmen used to winning inflated Vatican contracts. For his part, the Archbishop wrote to Cardinal Bertone in May 2011 that he had made his allegations “only to render service to you, Eminence, the Holy Father’s primary collaborator, who have the right to know the whole truth. “I considered it my duty to do so, animated by the same sentiment of fidelity which I nurture toward the Holy Father.” And as for Paolo Gabriele, the Pope’s disgraced former assistant, whatever else he may have told the Vatican investigators questioning him in recent days, it seems safe to assume that he has at least professed fidelity to his former boss. - CNS
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Pope urges pollies to stop pretending for votes AGAINST the backdrop of the European financial crisis and plunging stock markets around the world Pope Benedict XVI criticised the current political state of affairs, saying all political parties had to become more responsible and stop promising things they couldn’t deliver. His comments came at the World Meeting of Families in Italy’s capital of finance and fashion, Milan, from May 30 to June 3. Candidates need to see that the votes people invest in them are not
votes for the leaders but are a call for them to fight and be responsible for the good of all people, he said. He said one idea for people to help right away was for more financially stable parishes and families to adopt a struggling family or parish akin to the twin cities’ initiative. The world meeting gathers every three years to celebrate and help families live out their Christian values. About one million people from 153 countries descended on Milan’s Bresso Park on June 3 to take part in the event’s closing Mass.
US women religious oppose reforms
Families just happy to be there
THE NATIONAL board of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) said on June 1 the assessment that led to a Vatican order to reform the organisation “was based on unsubstantiated accusations and the result of a flawed process that lacked transparency.” “Moreover, the sanctions imposed were disproportionate to the concerns raised and could compromise their (board members’) ability to fulfil their mission,” the board said in a statement. “The report has furthermore caused scandal and pain throughout the Church community and created greater polarisation.” The board released the statement the morning after it concluded a special meeting in Washington on May 29-31 held to review and plan a response to the report issued to LCWR by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Citing “serious doctrinal problems which affect many in consecrated life”, the doctrinal congregation, on April 18, announced a major reform of LCWR to ensure its fidelity to Catholic teaching in areas including abortion, euthanasia, women’s ordination and homosexuality. The Vatican appointed Archbishop Peter Sartain of Seattle to provide “review, guidance and approval, where necessary, of the work” of LCWR. LCWR’s board members raised concerns about both the content of the doctrinal assessment and the process by which it was prepared. The board said in its June 1 statement that LCWR’s president, Franciscan Sister Pat Farrell, and executive director, Sister Janet Mock, a Sister of St Joseph, will return to Rome on June 12 to meet US Cardinal William Levada, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and Archbishop Sartain “to raise and discuss the board’s concerns.” - CNS
In his homily, the 85-year-old Pope called for Church unity, emphasised marriage as between a man and a woman, urged parents to keep the transcendent alive in a world that adores the high-tech over high ideals, and urged children to respect and love their family. Because the five-day meeting’s theme was how to balance work demands, family needs and religious celebration, the Pope upbraided economic theories that advocate that the best policies, markets and work ethics are those that
push the most product and reap the most profit. “The one-sided logic of sheer utility and maximum profit are not conducive to harmonious development, to the good of the family or to building of a more just society, because it brings in its wake ferocious competition, strong inequalities, degradation of the environment, the race for consumer goods and family tensions,” he said. Such a “utilitarian mentality” takes a toll on the family and social relationships, “reducing them
A family walks from the altar after presenting the offertory gifts to Pope Benedict XVI at the closing Mass of the World Meeting of Families in Milan on June 3. PHOTO: CNS, PAUL HARING
to a fragile convergence of individual interests and undermining the solidity of the social fabric,” he added. The Pope spent nearly three full days at a variety of events: meeting local citizens, religious, government and business leaders and Catholic young people and families from around the world. During the gathering the archdiocese of Milan announced that a half-billion euro had been collected during the papal visit and would be given in the pope’s name to victims of the recent Italian earthquakes. -CNS
Law effort to save unborn baby girls fails A LAW that would have prohibited abortions motivated by the gender of the unborn child failed to gain a needed two-thirds majority in the US House of Representatives on May 31. The bill was proposed after undercover video by the group Live Action showed Planned Parenthood staff members advising a woman on how to get an abortion if the child she is carrying is female. The vote to suspend the rules and pass the Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act, sponsored by Representative Trent Franks, and known as PRENDA, was 246 in favour and 168 against. In addition to banning sexselection abortions, the legislation would have prohibited the coercion of abortions based on gender, the solicitation or acceptance of funds for such abortions and the transportation of a woman into the US to obtain such an abortion. In a statement after the vote, Franks expressed confidence that “this is not the end, but merely the opening salvo in ensuring the words, ‘It’s a girl,’ are no longer a death sentence for so many unborn girls.” Representative Chris Smith said sex-selection abortion “is cruel, it’s discriminatory and it’s legal. It is violence against women.” “Most people in government are unaware that it is part of a deliberate plan of population control,” added Smith, who co-chairs the Congressional Pro-Life Caucus. “This is a real war on women.” Currently, only four US states Arizona, Illinois, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania - ban sex-selection abortions. They also are prohibited in Canada, the United Kingdom and several Asian countries. A spokeswoman for the Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities at the US Conference of Catholic Bishops said the USCCB has taken no formal position on the Prenatal Nondiscrimination Act. - CNS
Nun is bishops’ school czar SISTER John Mary Fleming, a member of the Dominican Sisters of St Cecilia Congregation in Nashville, said she considers it an honour for her congregation that she has been appointed executive director of the Secretariat of Catholic Education of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). “I think what the USCCB is doing is reaching out to a community whose focus and passion is education,” said Sr John Mary, a former principal at St Henry School in Nashville who currently is completing her second year as principal of
St Dominic School in Bolingbrook, Illinois, in the Diocese of Joliet. Sr John Mary will succeed Marie Powell, who earlier this year announced she will be retiring. Powell has been executive director since July 2007. The Nashville Dominicans, in their traditional white habit, are one of the fastest growing communities of religious sisters in the country with steady growth since the 1980s. The congregation was founded in 1860 and is dedicated to the apostolate of education. The sisters
operate more than 30 schools in 19 US dioceses and archdioceses as well as in the Archdiocese of Vancouver, British Columbia, and the Archdiocese of Sydney. “The interest of the USCCB right now is the whole horizon of Catholic education,” encompassing areas of doctrine, the new evangelisation, communications, immigration policy and government relations, Sr John Mary said in an interview with the Tennessee Register, newspaper of the Nashville Diocese. “It’s a pretty wide spectrum.”
US Dominican sisters relax with an icecream. Sister John Mary Fleming, a member of the US Dominican Sisters of St Cecilia, one of the fastest growing Catholic communities of religious sisters, is the new Director of the US Secretariat of Catholic Education. PHOTO: CNS
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This couple’s story is confronting but uplifting. Thomas, a Muslim man from Yemen who converted to Catholicism against all the odds, shares his and his wife’s inspirational story.
he first time Thomas stepped inside a church, he was overcome with emotion. “This was my dream, to see a church,” Thomas recalled. “I entered, I forgot myself. I couldn’t control myself from crying.” The Muslim man and his Ethiopian Orthodox wife had just arrived in Lebanon from Yemen, Thomas’ homeland, seeking freedom of religion. They stayed in the church two hours and then, mustering up his courage, Thomas approached the priest and asked to be baptised, unaware of the extensive preparation involved. Realising the couple’s predicament - refugees with no money, no jobs and no contacts - the priest guided the couple to Father Martin McDermott, an American Jesuit who serves Lebanon’s Afro-Asian migrant community. The couple shared their story with Fr Martin and, later, with Catholic News Service (CNS). To protect their identities because they are at risk of being killed by authorities in Yemen, the couple asked CNS not to report their real names. The Yemeni man asked to be called Thomas, the name he chose for his baptism, and his wife requested the name Nardos which means Mary Magdalene in Amharic. They met several years ago in a computer class in Yemen where Nardos was working as a housemaid. Although they could not date openly, being forbidden in Yemen, they were able to meet in public for coffee. The couple soon fell in love but Thomas knew his family would never accept Nardos because she was Christian. Thomas says he was Muslim “just by name”. “I hated going to the mosque. I was not happy there,” he said. Six years ago, he met a Christian man working in Yemen. That opportunity sparked his interest in Christianity. “I used to ask God: ‘I want to see a church’,” Thomas recalls. “I would feel something inside, telling me to be strong,” giving him the perseverance to wait and be hopeful. In internet cafes, Thomas often searched to learn about Jesus and the Bible. When he met Nardos, he
already knew the story of the loaves and fishes and had a deep respect for Mary, as do many Muslims. But the authoritarian hand of the Yemeni government was evident: when he tried to open those Christian websites again, they would always be blocked. The couple’s relationship took a turn when Nardos became pregnant. About six weeks into the pregnancy, Nardos was suffering from severe bouts of nausea and vomiting. When asked by the hospital admitting desk if Nardos was his wife, Thomas lied and said yes. But hospital officials wanted to see the papers proving the marriage. Thomas lied again and said he would go home and get the papers. Meanwhile, Nardos was admitted. Outside the hospital, he was grabbed by four undercover police, pushed into a car and taken to a building. Each time he tried to explain himself, he was beaten. They then prodded him with questions: “Who is the girl, she’s your wife? Tell the truth. Is she Christian or Muslim?” He told his accusers he was ready to marry his girlfriend. Back at the hospital, the doctor told Nardos that she had to perform “an operation.” “You are not married,” the doctor told the patient before forcing an abortion. Nardos’ eyes welled with tears as she recounted the incident. Within 10 days, the couple got the necessary permission to get married, under one condition: Nardos would first have to become Muslim. Under duress, they agreed. As Nardos stood before the Islamic committee, a meeting of about two hours, one of the men instructed her about Islam, telling her, “Jesus is not the Son of God.” She said she does not remember much beyond that, except the session concluded with Nardos giving a hand signal confirming she had become Muslim. Committee members also told her to read and study the Quran every day and not to go to the church. “I hated to change my religion,” Nardos says. “I felt, inside, like I’m lying to my God. But what could I do?” Although she could still pray in private, it pained Nardos to stay away from church. Prior to her “conversion” to Islam, she attended a special Yemeni church, masked by a storefront, for Ethiopian migrant workers.
Thomas prays after receiving his first Communion during Pentecost Mass at a church in Beirut on May 27.
“I missed church, I wanted to pray,” she said. One day she followed her longing and went to the church, a visit that did not go unnoticed. Her husband received a phone call: “Where’s your wife? We want to speak with her.” That was the trigger for the cou-
One of the most impressive things about Catholicism is the forgiveness of sins. In Islam, if you make a mistake, you are doomed. ple to plan their exit from Yemen. Once they were in Lebanon, Fr Martin helped them to get settled. He found a Lebanese family from his parish with whom the couple could stay and helped to arrange an interview for them with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. “If we had not found Fr Martin that day,” says Nardos, “we’d be sleeping outside (on the street).” And, convinced of Thomas’ sincere desire to become a Christian,
the priest set out a course of study for the Muslim man, first using the New Testament, then the Catechism of the Catholic Church, broken into volumes. “Lebanon is the only country in the Middle East where it is legal for a Muslim to become a Christian, aside from Israel,” Fr Martin explained, adding that, in some countries, the laws against conversion are not strictly enforced. To study, Fr Martin offered Thomas the use of a small room next to his office where children of Afro-Asian migrants learn the catechism on Sundays. There, the couple would spend about four hours on weekdays, Nardos quietly reading her Amharic Bible, as Thomas took notes from his readings and made lists of questions for Fr Martin. “I think he believes in God even more than I do,” Nardos said of her husband. “If I get discouraged or confused, he tells me: ‘Depend on God. Don’t forget God. He gave us everything.’ He’s teaching me, because he’s strong in his faith.” One of the most impressive things about Catholicism, Thomas said, is the forgiveness of sins. “In Islam, if you make a mistake, you are doomed,” he said. “So you
PHOTO:CNS
hide it inside and don’t tell anybody. In Christianity, it’s all about peace.” Back at “home” in the evening, Thomas and his host, a former seminarian, would review what Thomas had studied and often have discussions about the faith until the wee hours. This continued for nearly four months. On Sundays, the couple attended Fr Martin’s Mass and soon made friends among other migrant workers from Africa and Asia. From the Missionaries of Charity nuns who attended Mass, Thomas learned that three sisters from the order were killed in Yemen in 1998. Getting to the study room at the church each morning was becoming more and more of a challenge for the couple. Although just half an hour walk from where they were staying, it would sometimes take more than an hour to arrive as they dodged police because of their illegal status. Each day, when Fr Martin would knock on the door of the study room, Thomas answered expectantly, hoping the priest would have news of his baptism date. Fr Martin wanted to be sure the candidate was well prepared. Typically, a convert from Islam must meet with the bishop to receive his approval before being
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Wounds of fathers will be healed by God’s love
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Clockwise from above: Jesuit Fr Martin McDermott baptises Thomas during the Pentecost service; candidates for Christian initiation pray ahead of their confirmation during the same service; Fr Martin administers the Sacraments of Christian initiation for new members of the Church. - CNS
baptised. However, the bishop told Fr Martin he trusted his judgement. Finally, the date was set for Pentecost Sunday, May 27. During his homily, Fr Martin explained Thomas would be baptised and would be one of six to be confirmed. Thomas would also receive his first Communion during the Mass. “Your baptism is the greatest day of your life,” he reminded those at the Mass. “Be ready to follow the Lord at whatever cost. In many parts of the world, it is costing them (Christians) their lives. Spread the Gospel, mostly by how you live out your life,” he said. Clothed in his white gown and beaming with joy, the newly baptised Thomas told CNS after the Mass: “Now I’m free. For six years I dreamed of this.” And his reaction to receiving the Eucharist for the first time: “I felt a jolt, as if I
had put an ice cube in my mouth. I’m alive, awakened.” “He amazes me, because from where he came (Yemen), I didn’t think Christ can make disciples,” said his godfather, the former seminarian with whom the couple lived. “He has a spirit of being truly Christian. So it shows us that God can make his disciples anywhere.” Becoming a Christian means Thomas can never again have any contact with his family or return to Yemen because, under Islam, he should be killed. “I lost my family forever,” Thomas says of the day he left Yemen without saying goodbye to them. Even in Lebanon, although such a sentence is not officially carried out, “if he’s among Muslims, they ‘should’ kill him,” added Fr Martin. Thomas and Nardos are awaiting a second interview with the UNHCR in October, praying they will get resettled to another coun-
try where they can legally begin a new life. In the meantime, Thomas has found a janitorial job and the couple is renting a small room. After he pays the rent from his monthly salary of $350, there is $25 left over for the rest of the month. Nardos has chosen to become a Catholic so she could be one with her husband. On Trinity Sunday, June 3, Nardos will make her profession of faith and the couple will be married during the Mass that Father Martin will concelebrate with an Ethiopian Catholic priest. Someone from the parish has lent Nardos a beautiful wedding gown to wear for the occasion, and the Afro-Asian parishioners have planned a celebration for the couple after Mass. “This is a story for us to tell our children someday,” Nardos said. CNS
RECENTLY received a phone call from “Brian” wanting to change our lunch appointment. He said he needed to visit his seven year old son who was living with relatives, as he had just discovered he had been the focus of a large police search the previous evening. When his son was eventually found in nearby bushland he was cold, frightened and broken-hearted. The young boy had explained because he hadn’t heard from his father for over a month, he thought he had died. He wasn’t sure why he ran away – he just wanted to stop the hurting inside. He was hungering for his father. Brian’s relationship with his son had been fractured through drugs, jail and sickness and always been very fragile. His heart was often grieving for his father but when he hadn’t heard from him he feared the worst. While this example may be extreme, I believe it is indicative of a broader level of pain crippling our society, both socially and spiritually. There is a need within each of us to be embraced by our fathers, but more often than not it is never completely satisfied within our lifetimes. US author Gordon Dalbey addresses this issue in several books, referring to it as the “father-wound”. He claims in the 15 years he has been addressing men’s conferences around the world, he has consistently been confronted by men who live with a sense of unfulfilment in relation to their fathers. “The fatherwound is an epidemic amongst us,” he writes, “snowballing down through generations unto today, where its effects have become so destructive we cannot ignore it any longer.” Dalbey emphasises he is not only speaking about relationships such as Brian’s, whose circumstances had pushed him to the periphery of society, but to average citizens who are employed, law-abiding, family men. Our prisons are full of men and women who have been abused or abandoned by fathers or father figures but less obvious are those in our workplaces and churches who were also wounded by fathers incapable or unwilling to fulfill their emotional needs. Dalbey claims that men, in particular, measure their worth by the degree they felt embraced, encouraged, guided and protected as children and when this is not fulfilled there will always remain a sense of emptiness and longing. It is this many men carry into roles as husband and fathers. The resulting emotional absence infects proceeding generations and the social ramifications are reflected in the escalation
I Say, I Say MARK REIDY
of areas such as marriage breakdowns, violence, sexual promiscuity, longer working hours, the exploding pornography business and pursuits of self-interest, as men attempt to satisfy the emptiness within. Many family studies have emphasised that when a fatherchild relationship is distorted, it will be reflected in all future relating to other male authority figures. This is equally true in our attitude toward God. And I believe it is responsible not only for the increasing number of people claiming to have no belief in God, but also to those attending church who do not have an intimate and personal relationship with him. Because people have been taught to relate to God as a Heavenly Father, it becomes too psychologically difficult to separate their perceptions of him from those they have experienced from their earthly fathers or father figures.
God placed “fatherhunger” within us so we would always be seeking his embrace but earthly fathers will never be capable of fulfilling this craving. We view God through the filter of our own imperfect experience – there has never been a perfect earthly father - and this inevitably diminishes our ability to receive the fullness and perfection of his love for us. I believe God placed “fatherhunger” within us so we would always be seeking his embrace. Earthly fathers are intended to do their utmost to model and guide us toward this Divine unconditional love, but they will never be capable of fulfilling the craving. It is why Jesus came – so we could know God’s true identity. “If you know me,” he said, “you will know my Father too” (Jn 14:6). One of the most powerful and liberating symbols given in the New Testament is the ripping of the veil in the Temple at the moment of Jesus’ death. It signified the removal of all barriers that had previously separated us from God. Where-as once the fullness of his presence was hidden from our view, from that moment on, it became freely available to each and every one of us.
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You can't keep a
Good people
down
Things might be looking up for Australia's fledgling neighbour, East Timor. International aid agencies are helping people to put the past behind them and, given the country's tumultuous history, that is no small feat. By Giles Tuffin
“I
have a story,” she says quietly. Aged 33, Dirse Desilva Soares’ future looks bright she is currently completing a teaching practicum in Perth - but the story she tells is one of destruction and death. From the tiny village of Laklubar in the mountainous interior of East Timor, Dirse’s story of ongoing violence is typical in this tiny Catholic country located less than 700km from Darwin. Invaded by Indonesia in 1975 and occupied until an Australian-led UN peacekeeping mission brought peace in 1999, up to 200,000 people died at the hands of Indonesian soldiers and local militias, around a third of the population. Dirse’s shy smile and softlyspoken broken English belies the tragedy of her tale. “In Timor Leste [the Portuguese pronunciation of East Timor], many villages destroyed. Many fires. Many people killed.” In the lead-up to the 1999 referendum, resident Indonesians wanted the Timorese people to vote for autonomy under Indonesian rule, Dirse says, announcing their intention to wreak havoc if the vote was for independence. “If you vote for independence, you all will die”, Dirse says, referring to the Indonesians living in her village. “They say they will kill all, destroy all.” But the Timorese people ignored the threats and voted overwhelmingly for independence. The Indonesians delivered on their threat, destroying 70 per cent of the country's infrastructure and killing many Timorese in a final burst of rage. Dirse was only 21 when the postreferendum violence took place. “It was very, very bad”, she says, though her village was comparatively lucky, spared much of the destruction owing to the presence of an Indonesian military outpost in the village; “but many other villages were burned,” she says. Hundreds were killed during this period and over 200,000 fled to neighbouring West Timor, with the last of the refugees only returning home in 2000. Even before that, at the tender age of 11, Dirse experienced the trauma of war firsthand when militias regularly came and raided her village in the middle of the night for food and supplies. “When evening come, don’t feel safe sleeping at home, because
afraid for the Fretilin [the antiIndonesian, socialist militia], they come and steal.” One night in particular will always stick in Dirse’s mind. “They [Fretilin] came very close to our house, we get up and go out to sleep in the jungle.” “But my Mum and Dad forgot me! I was still asleep in the house!” Dirse’s father returned to find her still asleep, taking her from harm’s way. It is taking years for East Timor to recover from the decades of destruction that occurred under Indonesian rule. Around 41 per cent of the population still live below the poverty line and several parts of the country still required food aid from the international community as late as 2007. Although East Timor’s financial situation is improving with the profits from its oil and gas resources, the industry has created very few jobs for Timorese people and most remain in subsistence farming. But the international community has not ignored the plight of East Timor, with Catholic aid agencies in particular providing invaluable services and training. Dirse has just completed a course at the teaching college run by the Marist Brothers, the only training facility for teachers in the entire country. Located in Baucau, a pretty city of 50,000 located three hours east of the capital Dili, the college offers three-year courses and produces around 40 to 45 new graduates per year to serve in the country's fledgling education system. Until recently, many children from rural areas could only access education up until year seven. Most families can now access school up to year ten as well as some pre-primary facilities, while towns and cities offer up to year twelve. The teachers are trained to teach in Tetum [tay-tum], East Timor’s most common local language, as well as Portuguese, which is the country’s official language. Dirse’s reasons for her career choice are simple: “I want to be a teacher because Timor Leste is [a] new country, and also there are not many primary teachers, so I want to become a teacher to help the kids." While Dirse is hoping to be assigned to teach primary classes in the district of Manatutu between Dili and Baucau, she is currently enjoying three months in Perth where she is learning English and doing a practicum at Calista Primary School.
Above, some of the goods made by women participating in the charity CTID's programs for self-sufficiency. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Dirse was also lucky enough to have been involved with another Catholic charity called Centro Treino Integral e Desenvolvimento (CTID) [Centre for Integral Training and Development] operated by the Canossian Sisters. The charity was established in 2000 in honour of Mother Erminia Cazzaniga FdCC and Mother Celeste Carvalho FdCC who were killed by Indonesians in the Massacre of Lautem in the far east of the country in 1999. Based in Baucau, the CTID is run to empower women of all ages to earn their own income stream, independent of their husbands and fathers for the first time, as well as providing community development
services. CTID volunteers travel to small villages and support women by teaching them small business skills and providing English lessons to help them sell their handicrafts. Among other initiatives, women make soap by hand, tamarind candies and virgin coconut oil, which can be used as a body lotion, for cooking and as a medicine. The women also create textiles using a traditional East Timorese style of hand-weaving called tais, using techniques passed down from generation to generation. An important part of East Timorese culture, the tais are very colourful and a popular purchase among locals and international visitors, as bags or clothes.
CTID also provide micro credit to graduates to enable women to buy essentials to start small businesses, such as sewing machines and cooking utensils. Practical training is also provided through a hotel and restaurant management course to help staff the country’s small but growing tourism sector. As well as choosing to specialise in either food production, house keeping or bar and restaurant work, students are also taught accounting and computer skills, English and Portuguese. The ten-month unit is also open to men, as are other community courses such as those on ecological awareness and environmental
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Angels on high: the best things come in threes Dear Father, a friend told me about a prayer called the Trisagium Angelicum which she prays in a group to which she belongs. I had never heard of it. What is it?
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Images of the people with whom the charity CTID works aroun d La k l ub a r, in East Timor's mountainous interior. Below, Dirse Desilva Soares photographed in Perth last month. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
protection. CTID is also at the forefront of peace education, attempting to overcome the feelings of hatred and animosity that are still strong for many in this country, with violent clashes occurring as recently as 2006 between political factions from the East and West. As war leads to structures of violence and hatred, peace education is vital to stopping the self-perpetuating cycles of conflict. As the students come from all over East Timor, the provision of shared accommodation has been invaluable in breaking down barriers born of geography, as friendships quickly build. But scripture is also a powerful tool for bringing peace.
Students frequently study the First Epistle to the Corinthians, as well as discussing the meaning of “love thy enemy”. One of the CTID volunteers, and the host of Dirse while she is staying in Perth, is Alison Dyall, who has done ongoing stints in East Timor since 2001. She notes that one of the priorities of CTID is “giving the young women an alternative to farming”, as previously “there was nothing for the young women”. “We’re really looking at teaching the young women skills so they can then produce saleable goods in order to generate an income stream for themselves, their families and their villages.”
Alison, who has volunteered in East Timor so many times she’s lost count, is open about her faith’s role in why she originally made the decision to go. “It was a call of God that was laid on me fairly heavily, this was my call, my mission. “We live in such a blessed country and other people are so needy. And East Timor is so close! “I also thought the Australian government had treated the East Timorese really shabbily, and I wanted to get involved and make amends, in a very small way”. Dirse smiles while Alison tells her stories. It is clear she thinks Alison’s efforts have been worthwhile.
think few people would be aware of this ancient prayer to the Blessed Trinity, so it is good that you ask the question. After all, we Catholics should be familiar with the many aspects of our rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The Trisagium Angelicum, or Angelic Trisagion, is a prayer of devotion to the Blessed Trinity elaborated by the Order of the Blessed Trinity, better known as the Trinitarians. The Trisagium is their official prayer, and has been recited by them and many others for centuries. The Trinitarians were founded in 1198 by St John de Matha and St Felix of Valois with the special mission of ransoming Christians held captive by nonbelievers as a result of the Crusades and the activities of pirates along the Mediterranean coast. They also served the people of their local communities by performing works of mercy. From the outset, a special dedication to the mystery of the Blessed Trinity was an essential element of their spirituality. Returning to the Trisagium, the devotion begins with some brief opening prayers concluding with the Glory be. This is followed by the Trinitarian antiphon, “Holy is God, Holy and strong, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us” and the Our Father. The heart of the devotion is a verse and response repeated nine times: “To you, O Blessed Trinity, be praise, and honour, and thanksgiving, for ever and ever! Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of hosts. Heaven and earth are filled with your glory,” followed by the Glory be. These prayers, from the antiphon to the Glory be to the Father are said three times in honour of the three divine Persons. The final prayers begin with another prayer to the Blessed Trinity: “God the Father unbegotten, only-begotten Son, and Holy Spirit, the Comforter: holy and undivided Trinity, with all our heart and voice we acknowledge you, we praise you, and we bless you: glory to you forever.” Then another verse and response: “Let us bless the Father, and the Son with the Holy Spirit. Be praised and exalted above all things forever.” The concluding prayer is: “Almighty, ever-living God, who has permitted us your servants, in our profession of the true faith, to acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity, and in the power of that majesty to adore the Unity, grant that by steadfastness in this same faith, we may be ever guarded against all adversity: through
Q&A By Fr John Flader Christ our Lord. Amen.” Then all say: “Set us free, save us, vivify us, O Blessed Trinity!” Why is this devotion called the Angelic Trisagion? The Greek word trisagion means “thrice holy.” It refers especially to the threefold “Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of hosts” at the heart of the devotion. These words come from the prophet Isaiah who saw a vision of the Lord sitting on a throne with the seraphim calling out: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Is 6:3). The same words come in the book of Revelation, where the
The Trinitarians were founded in 1198 with a mission to ransom Christians held captive during the Crusades. four living creatures never cease vto sing “Holy, holy, holy” to the Lord God Almighty (cf Rev 4:8). The liturgy of the Church takes up this praise of God in every Mass in the Sanctus, or Holy, holy, holy. But why is it called the Angelic Trisagion when there is no express mention of angels in any of the prayers? The answer undoubtedly comes in the fact that it is the angels, the seraphim, who cry out “Holy, holy, holy” in the prophecy of Isaiah, an image of their praise of God in heaven. The praise of Christ, “Holy is God, Holy and strong, Holy Immortal One” is found in the Eastern liturgies, both Orthodox and Catholic, before the reading of the New Testament and in the Divine Office. It is also used in the liturgy of the Latin rite on Good Friday in the reproaches that may be recited during the adoration of the Cross. So the Trisagium has a long history, going back to the Old Testament, and it expresses exalted praise of the Blessed Trinity. It can be found in many prayer books and even on apps for mobile phones. It is a beautiful devotion to use in families, parishes and other groups before the feast of the Blessed Trinity.
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’m in Portugal on a road trip part pilgrimage, part holiday. Navigation is a bit tricky and things are a little unfamiliar, but I’m thoroughly enjoying the experience. My wife and I are making our way to the city of Braga to visit the country’s most spectacular religious sanctuary - Bom Jesus do Monte - the Shrine of Good Jesus of the Mountain. This centuries old religious icon is one of Portugal’s best known and most popular pilgrimage centres (despite, surprisingly, having no association with saints or visions). We’ve been in Portugal for two weeks and have just finished a magical luxury cruise up the Douro River from its Atlantic mouth at Porto, Portugal’s second largest city, to the Spanish border and return. I feel as though I know the place a little better now for the river cruise opened the country like a giant zipper to expose its wondrous culture, geography, and history. Interestingly, our first shore excursions on the cruise unexpectedly took us to a significant religious treasure: the massive and imposing baroque Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, in the small town of Lamego. A pilgrimage hotspot, it’s worth commenting on before elaborating on Bom Jesus. Dominating a forested hilltop overlooking Lamego, the Sanctuary’s twin-towered baroque basilica is stupendous, yet it is the 686-step, zigzagging granite stairway up to it that is perhaps the bigger drawcard. Adorned with decorative blue-and-white glazed tiles, and lined with statues, fountains and shady trees, the stairway is a magnet to pilgrims, the most devout of whom climb these steps on their knees. Ouch! Among the basilica’s many treasures is a famed statue of Mary breastfeeding her child. The figurine is titled Our Lady of the Milk and is the centre of much devotion. Drawn by oxen, her statue is paraded around Lamego annually and is the only such Marian parade in Portugal.
therecord.com.au
June 6, 2012
Unique statues are peculiar to Lamego; another can be found at the foot of the Sanctuary in a small chapel adjoining the expansive town square. It’s an effigy of God the Father holding his crucified son in his arms, rather than the usual representation of Jesus in the arms of Mary, his mother. But what of Bom Jesus! On arrival at the Bom Jesus Sanctuary in Braga (around 80km from Lamego), I’m amazed at the similarity between the two. Both crown forested hilltop locations; both feature twin-towered baroque basilicas; and both feature giant zigzag stairways, though Bom Jesus do Monte’s granite stairway is accentuated by dazzling whitewashed walls rather than glazed tiles. Nevertheless, it’s equally stunning, perhaps even more so. Certainly it’s what people come here to see. To climb the monumental baroque stairway is both emotive and exhaustive. Firstly, there is a long, steep pathway lined with octagonal chapels depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross housing life size terracotta figurines. They are works of art and powerfully symbolic. Then, the middle section features the staircase of the Five Senses, with ingenious wall fountains representing the bodily senses of sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. The final stretch of the stairway is dedicated to the three virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity symbolised by themed fountains and allegorical statues. It’s a breathtaking climb. At the resort-like summit Plaza, 400m above sea level and providing sweeping views over Braga, stands the ornate twin-towered basilica, flower gardens, a cafe, and a number of upmarket hotels to accommodate the pilgrims and tourists who flock here in droves. The Sanctuary also benefits from a funicular that, for the cost of $1, whisks you to the summit in a little over a minute. Surrounded by oak and eucalyptus trees, the basilica is epic. Inside, it’s a forest of statues and soaring columns supporting an ornate ceil-
ing, while above and behind the altar is the most fantastic Calvary scene imaginable. Add the regular sonorous peal of bells and the whole place seems to resonate with religious fervour. Drop-dead beautiful, the Sanctuary is one of Portugals most recognisable icons. While in the Braga area, our travel agent recommended we try a unique Portuguese experience and stay in a Solares. These privately owned, stately manor houses (dotted all over Portugal) offer guests quality accommodation while providing a wonderful insight into Portuguese history, culture and hospitality. We stay at the Paco de Calheiros, a sprawling 17th century manor house of noble origin filled with period furniture, works of art and family heirlooms. Our host is the Count of Calheiros, an unpresumptuous, effervescent chap, who showers us with hospitality and who, with the aid of a local potion, even ‘cures’ my wife’s dreaded tummy
bug. Now that’s service. Our further road trip through Portugal sees us criss-crossing the country on magnificent but mostly empty (tolled) motorways, across landscapes not dissimilar to rural Australian countryside. Our destinations are diverse: major cities like Porto and
Lisbon; smaller scenic wonders like Evora, Obidos and Aveiro. All are charming and an absolute delight to explore. The Portuguese themselves are remarkably warm and welcoming. In some towns, we again enjoy the hospitality of Solares’ hosts,
therecord.com.au June 6, 2012
to
TRAVEL
13
Stairway Heaven
From the gloriously quaint to the beathtakingly ornate, Portugal offers wonders to both pilgrim and tourist alike. Long-serving travel writer, Paul Maughn sings the praises of one of his favourite destinations.
Clockwise from above: the city of Porto; a station of the Cross at Bom Jesus; the deserted monastery on the cliff tops at Su do Cabo; the baroque stairway of Braga’s Bom Jesus; the blue and white tiles of Capella Das at Almas; and the Bom Jesus Basilica PHOTOS: PAUL MAUGHN
while in other centres we stay in the renowned Pousadas de Portugal: exclusive hotels situated in castles, fortresses, even monasteries. They deliver a totally atmospheric experience not to be missed. Everywhere we go the nation absolutely bristles with ancient
churches and striking cathedrals, the inside of which are a joy to explore. Portugal is only a small place, 560km long and a mere 215km wide, a narrow rectangle on the western corner of Europe. Yet it has been a powerhouse of the Catholic faith and a dominant
centre of Marian devotion for centuries. It certainly ticks all the boxes as a grand destination for spiritual renewal, while it’s a chocolate box of delights on the temporal tourist front too. I can think of few destinations around the world that have pleased me as much as Portugal.
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VISTA
therecord.com.au
June 6, 2012
Abba an angel to the children
Children in Bonga, Ethiopia, say they can’t imagine that all white people are not like Italian-born missionary Bishop Angelo Moreschi. In a Year of Grace his is an inspiring example, writes ACN’s Eva Maria Kolman.
“A
BBA Angelo, Abba Angelo”, cry the children when they see the old white jeep with the cracked windscreen. “Abba Angelo”, the grownups also shout after the vehicle. Bishop Angelo Moreschi from Gambella himself sits behind the wheel. Everyone here recognises him from afar. Even the many soldiers who stop cars on the country road wave at him and let him pass. You get the feeling the bishop from Brescia in Italy is truly at home here. “In Ethiopia I really understood the Gospel”, he says with radiant eyes. At the Apostolic Vicariate in Gambella much of what most people imagine when they think of Africa actually exists. There are even lions and other wild animals. Only recently, hunters killed a big crocodile and found t-shirts in its belly. It had eaten four people. When the people bathe in the rivers, they have to be afraid. Moreover, the climate is extremely hot and when there are storms, they are violent. This year an entire chapel flew a kilometre away, reports the bishop. Many of the chapels are simply put together out of boards or branches. This means a severe storm can sweep them away. Unfortunately, another thing most people associate with Ethiopia also exists there: hunger. Especially during the dry season, there is hardly anything to eat. In each of the numerous village chapels you see children whose frizzy hair has turned light from malnutrition. Most of them will die because their bodies have no resistance and diseases sweep them away. The little girl with the artistic plaits in the first row who sings, prays and claps to the sound of the drums so ardently is already marked by hunger. Will she survive? Two babies cuddle up on the lap of an emaciated woman. How much longer will the mother have enough milk to breastfeed them? The thought of death should not come to mind at the sight of little children. However, it inevitably arises. You look at the small horde of fair-haired children with an anxious heart. “Please not you!”, you think to yourself, looking at each of them. Abba Angelo brings special nourishing biscuits for the undernourished children when he visits the villages. The little boys and girls line up obediently and wait patiently until each of them receives a pack. None of the children pushes and shoves, no one shouts “me!”. When the bishop blesses them, they compliantly fold their hands and pray, immersed in thought. On the altar, pieced together out of branches, there is food for their souls: an extremely well-thumbed children’s Bible from “Aid to the Church in Need”. Again and again the catechist has to read from it to them. They cannot get enough of the stories. The children’s Bible pours the Gospel into the hearts of these poor children. When the little ones hear about Jesus, their eyes light up. The Catholic Church is welcome here. Many people say to the priests: “When the Catholic Church comes, everything becomes fertile.” And they are amazed: “Where the Church is, there is water. The government gives us bad water, but the Church brings good water. We love your God, please come to us, too!” The Church not only brings water, but also flour mills, kindergartens and assistance in developing agriculture. In addition, it would like to bring about reconciliation between
Bishop Angelo Moreschi banters with children in Bonga parish, in the Apostolic Vicariate of Gambella which he administers.
the tribes since bloody feuds arise again and again, particularly between the tribes that farm the land and those that put livestock out to graze. The livestock eats the crops, the farmers take the pastureland away from the herdsmen. “It’s the conflict between Cain and Abel that we know from the Bible,” says Bishop Angelo. People are repeatedly killed for this reason. The Church wants to teach the enemy tribes that there are other solutions for conflicts than the law of the gun. Bishop Angelo celebrates his 60th birthday on June 13. This year he also celebrates another anniversary as he has been living and working in Ethiopia for 30 years. Half his life. In reality, however, it is an entire lifetime because he has given his all here. His health is
ruined, he has given his life to the people he loves. His pastoral service has already left its mark. Some children at the Apostolic Vicariate in Gambella call every white person
Abba Angelo has given his life and health to the people he loves in Ethiopia, and they love him. “Abba Angelo“. They cannot imagine there are white people who are not like him. Nevertheless, it is doubtful how the story will end. The situation in the region is highly explosive. Only
recently, rebels shot eight men who came from other areas and worked on a farm. Father Philip, an Italian Salesian, even saw their coffins at the airport. Shortly thereafter a Pakistani, a big landowner, was murdered. The region is seething. Rich foreigners buy up enormous pieces of land that are as large as some European countries. Foreign investors arrive on every plane. The natives, on the other hand, are dispossessed. “Imagine that half of Germany was sold to Indians and Pakistanis,” explains Bishop Angelo. The native population does not profit from this, but is deprived of its basis of life. Even more people suffer from hunger, the herdsmen no longer find pastureland for their livestock and forests are destroyed. Hate and unrest increase. Anger
PHOTO: ACN
grows, the army tries to keep the situation under control, but resistance is also stirring against the soldiers since they often mistreat the population. Moreover, there is the war between North and South Sudan, the influx of refugees and the rise in acts of violence by rebels in the border area. A native priest suddenly says during dinner: “They will kill all foreigners here.” The bishop and the foreign priests should be concerned, too, he feels. Bishop Angelo refuses to believe it: “Nonsense, the people know us here! You saw how they waved to us!” And yet, doubt remains. It wouldn’t be the first time in history that the mood has turned. May God grant that this priest was not a prophet. - ACN
FUN FAITH WITH
SUNDAY, JUNE 10, 2012 • MARK 14: 12-16, 22-26 • CORPUS CHRISTI
SARAH RAPHAEL, AGED 9
HANNAH RAPHAEL
When he had said the blessing, he broke it and gave it to them. ‘Take it,’ he said, ‘this is my body.’’ - Mark 14:22
SARAH RAPHAEL
CROSSWORD Across 3. The first day of Unleavened Bread is when the Passover ____ was sacrificed 4. Jesus’ disciples said to him, ‘Where do you want us to go and make the Preparations for you to eat the ____?’ 6. As they were eating, Jesus took bread and, after saying the blessing, he broke it and gave it to them. ‘Take it,’ he said, ‘this is my ____.’
BLOOD
WORD LIST
PITCHER PASSOVER
MASTER
Down 1. Then Jesus took a cup, gave thanks, then handing it to the disciples He said to them, ‘This is my ____, the blood of the covenant, poured out for many. 2. The two disciples were to say to the owner of the house which he enters, “The ____ says: Where is the room for me
LAMB
BODY ROOM to eat the Passover with my disciples?” 4. So Jesus sent two of his disciples to go into the city and meet a man carrying a ____ of water and follow him. 5. The house owner, as Jesus said, went and showed them a large upper ____ furnished with couches, all prepared.
16
OPINION
EDITORIAL
Abundant grace for those who pray
therecord.com.au
June 6, 2012
Papal Cluedo
W
e have no evidence that Pope Benedict XVI had Australia’s Year of Grace in mind during his weekly general audience in St Peter’s Square on Wednesday, April 18 this year, but he might have done. In it, he went back to the earliest Christians to tell us how Christians have always dealt with life. “When the first Christian community is confronted by dangers, difficulties and threats it does not attempt to work out how to react, find strategies, defend itself or what measures to adopt; rather, when it is put to the test, the community starts to pray and makes contact with God.” (Reported in The Record, May 30.) This Christian custom has been evident in the life of the Church around the world in big things and in small ever since. One example has a particular Australian connection. In 1571, when Italy and Europe seemed hopelessly outnumbered and outgunned in the pending naval battle at Lepanto against invading Turks, Pope Pius V filled the churches of Rome with Christians praying the Rosary non-stop. After Christian forces had won an astonishing victory, Pius V added the invocation “Help of Christians” to the Litany of Our Lady. Around three centuries later, Our Lady Help of Christians was named Australia’s principal patron. The Lepanto story is a clear illustration of the depth and diversity of meaning in the words of Archbishop Costelloe: “The Year of Grace is not so much a call and an invitation to do something as it is an invitation to be something – more and more a disciple of Christ.” That invitation includes the invitation to make your prayer life such that Christ’s presence in you will become visible and attractive to others. How that will happen is God’s business. He has his own ways of making his presence in us visible to others. For example, another one of the Patrons of Australia, St Therese of the Child Jesus, was barely known outside her Carmelite Convent at Lisieux when she died at the age of 24 in 1897. Within a few years her miracles and writings were known around the world. During World War I, she became known as the Soldiers’ Saint, and there was a photo of her pinned up in many an Australian tent on the battlefields of France. She was beatified in 1923 and canonised in 1925, with half a million people present in Rome for the occasion. She lived a short, silent life of great prayer and love, but God chose to make her known after her death. St Josephine Bakhita was PO Box 3075 born in Sudan in 1869. At Adelaide Terrace the age of six she was kidPERTH WA 6832 napped and sold into slavery, and then bought and office@therecord.com.au sold numerous times before Tel: (08) 9220 5900 being bought by an Italian Fax: (08) 9325 4580 Consul whose family treated her with kindness and eventually took her to Italy. Circumstances led her into the Convent of the Canossian Sisters where she came to know about God whom “she had experienced in her heart since she was a child without knowing who he was”. After her Baptism she joined the Sisters on December 8, 1896 and spent the rest of her life in service of God whom she fondly called “the Master”. Her humility, simplicity and constant smile won the hearts of all who met her because of her exquisite goodness and deep desire to make the Lord known. When she was dying in 1947, Our Lady came to take her to heaven. St Josephine is the patron saint of the Sudanese Catholic Community in Perth and other parts of the world. There are thousands upon thousands of saints from every part of the globe whose lives are testimony to the power of prayer and millions more who are not known as saints but whose lives have been enriched by prayer and whose example has inspired others. The Year of Grace will be successful and a blessing to others according to the extent to which we take up a life of prayer. People in religious life have patterns of prayer they share in community and there is no better way for lay people than to develop a habit of prayer individually or in family. A habit is something we do on a regular basis and it quickly becomes something that reminds us of itself and demands it be satisfied. Blessed Mother Theresa of Calcutta used to insist her Sisters complete their prayers as the priority above all the calls of their work, because she knew if they did not pray they would not be able to do the work. Our demands are not as great as theirs, but our need for prayer is because our lives distract us from God more than theirs do. Find something, no matter how small, that you will do in prayer each day, and by the end of the Year of Grace you will be astonished how much God has done for you.
How God manifests in your life is God’s business. He has his own ways of making his presence in us visible to us.
THE RECORD
The Butler did it? Letters TO THE EDITOR
NFP humour-less is best I READ with much confusion the article in vista, ‘How to ruin your marriage with NFP’. What was the purpose of this article? I found it to be highly condescending and completely irrelevant. Perhaps you should read these articles before you print them. I assume the writer was trying to be funny but it’s a highly inappropriate topic to make fun of. A lot of people already have many misconceptions about this
subject. Surely it would be more beneficial to print an article that is informative rather than mocking. Erin Wilson, EAST VICTORIA PARK, WA
Aussie view more appropriate for Catholic paper FORGIVE me for not seeing the “funny” side to Simcha Fisher’s article ‘How to ruin your marriage with NFP’. As a long term user of NFP, like Simcha, there have been humorous moments in our marriage related to
using a natural method to plan our family and monitor my reproductive health. However, I believe that laughter must be based on respect, not only shown by the partners for each other, but also respect for the method of NFP itself. I feel respect is lacking in this article. All that Simcha subscribes to is real and I agree with the information. However, her choice of delivery is questionable and I humbly suggest that an alternative approach from an Australian perspective may have delivered a challenging, yet humorous, take on NFP that would be easily understood by the reader and more appropriate for a Catholic publication. Mandie Bowen DARLING DOWNS, WA
Any justice for good priests? Let’s not heap new injustices upon past disgrace, writes Michael Novak.
I had dinner the other night with a marvellous priest, who started out our dinner by having the little children who were with us recite together (partly in song) the blessing before meals. They loved doing it. Loved the sound of it. Loved the solemnity. Loved the fun. I did not know until well along in the meal, almost at the very end, that this good priest — so well informed about so many matters of faith, so genial, and so patently good-hearted and faithful — had been falsely accused of sexual molestation eight years ago. He was forced to leave the ministry (an accusation these days is enough to do this — a horrible scandal in itself). His accuser died of a cocaine overdose in his mother’s house, but not before exonerating the priest by admitting the falsity of his accusation. But all that notwithstanding, the bishop in his diocese has not moved — dared? — to reinstate this good man and return him to his proper standing in the priesthood, or even to give a public apology for his unjust treatment. Nor has the press that stirred up the atmosphere of high-tech lynchings revisited his case (and hundreds if not thousands of others) to clear them of this horrible wrong. Very few raw accusations that have emerged since the priestly abuse crisis erupted were ever subject to due process and full discovery and an open trial. In America, citizens have a right to their innocence until proven guilty. This good man was never given a hearing. He is still being
punished — to the very the core of his being and in his very reason for existence — because of a false accusation and that alone. Further, it is an accusation that has been withdrawn by the accuser, and apologized for by his family: “Billy [name changed] would never have made the accusation if he had been sober.” To have been treated as non-persons, as non-citizens, is an injustice that cries out to heaven for justice. Yet in addition to the truly evil predators that have been identified and weeded out, this is the fate of a considerable number of innocent Catholic priests in this country
In addition to truly evil predators, a considerable number of innocent priests have been sidelined. today. I do not understand why the Catholic Church has not fought for a civil process that gives these good men, innocent until proven guilty, fair trials. I do not understand why the American courts do not do this. I do not understand why the American press is not fighting mad about that. I do not understand why the ACLU is not leading this charge — they have a reputation for defending the unpopular victims. We all know, of course, that many accused priests have been proven guilty. No doubt, still more deserve to be given their due pun-
ishments. The years 1965-1985, give or take, were in clerical dereliction the worst in my memory (including historical memory, going back to the beginning of this Republic). They terribly shamed me and many millions of other Catholics. But I also know that thousands of the accused have never been given due process. They have been discarded as non-persons. They can hardly comprehend the sudden injustice they have suffered in the Church they love and the country they love. Since birth they have thought themselves safe from that — the kinds of injustices usually thought of as only occurring elsewhere, not in our America. They have been horribly betrayed. I beg those who have reached the same conclusions I have to act to change the present injustice, to rectify it, to erase it, and to restore to their full standing as human beings, citizens, and men committed to their faith, those who, after due process, are judged not guilty. They loved that faith in part because of its traditional defence of individual persons from birth to natural death. They loved this country because of its protection of individual rights. They cannot understand how they have been stripped of those basic rights — suddenly, without an outcry on their behalf by the Church, the state, and the public defenders of basic human rights. Look into it, America. Look into it, Catholic Church. Examine the facts. Punish the proven guilty. But give the innocent the honour that is due them.
OPINION
therecord.com.au June 6, 2012
17
Bless Me, Father, Father Brown are both excellent
There are moments of genuine holiness to be found in some British television series, Guy Crouchback explains.
I
HAVE recently obtained by mail order two rather elderly DVD collections of British television series featuring Catholic priests – Bless Me, Father, starring Arthur Lowe, and a collection of GK Chesterton’s Father Brown stories, starring Kenneth More. Both are excellent. In contrast to some more modern productions, no Catholic could, I think, object to the respectful and positive manner in which the priests are treated, shown not only as good men but wise men too. A rabbi who appears towards the end of the Arthur Lowe series is also shown as gentle and wise. Ecumenicists might not perhaps approve of the somewhat uncharitable portrayal of the Anglican curate. Ar t hur L owe (C apt ain Mainwaring of Dad’s Army) is wonderfully convincing as an Irish-born English parish priest of 1950 and ‘51. In as role not quite different to the pompous but brave
Clear view GUY CROUCHBACK
Captain Mainwaring, he makes a wonderful character – crabby, grasping, yet full of love not far below the surface. He is, as his long-suffering young curate says, a good Christian. He spars with his housekeeper but when a poignant, potentially tragic incident in her past is revealed, he shows just the right amount of tenderness without weakness, as do his other sparring partners, a grim old Mother Superior and his bookie neighbour. The scene in which he explains to his young curate why a rich, aggravating old lady is deserving of love and pity is genuinely moving, while the depiction of an English Catholic parish of that date – a now-distant period when rationing was still in
force but serious crime, and especially serious juvenile crime, hardly existed in the peaceful countryside - seems an authentic piece of social history. If there is a comment in this on how far society has sunk since those times, it is by implication only. Kenneth More as Father Brown is not quite like my original idea of
No Catholic could object to the respectful and positive manner in which priests are treated in these series. the little moon-faced Essex priestdetective of Chesterton’s stories, but after a few minutes he is completely captivating. He too lives in a more innocent age, when, as Tolkien put it, there was less noise and more green, and
the infamous Dr Beeching had not wrecked so much by destroying England’s placid little steam-railway lines. (Chesterton died in 1936). Both these stories, with two magnificent actors, would be delightful if they offered nothing more than scenery. Father Brown finds himself turning detective, aided by the penitent ex-master criminal Flambeau, with no more formidable weapon than commonsense. The stories as detective stories can be rather thin at times (killing a man by throwing a hammer at him from a church steeple seems an improbable way of committing murder, for example), but the director’s skill minimises these implausibilities – after all, it is the central moral and theological messages of most of the Father Brown stories which is important, not whodunit. If Chesterton’s plots were sometimes farfetched, or betray ignorance of some facts of the world, a combination of fine descriptive writing with fine acting and direc-
tion brings them convincingly to life. Father Brown explains at one point to a man amazed by his inductive powers that it seems odd that a priest whose major occupation is hearing men’s confessions should be thought of as an innocent simpleton unaware of evil. It is to be hoped they may lead readers who are so unfortunate as not to know them (or fortunate enough to have that treat still in store) to Chesterton’s great works of popular Theology – Orthodoxy and The Everlasting Man, not to mention his great epic poem, The Ballad of the White Horse. We are so used to Kenneth More playing he-man roles: sinking the Bismarck, flying a Spitfire, fighting a train through India’s banditinfested North-West Frontier, that we sometimes forget what a versatile character actor he was. I do not know how anyone could watch these DVDs with anything but lasting enjoyment, or fail to catch in their atmosphere moments of genuine holiness.
Christian film aims to eradicate extreme poverty
“God has given us tremendous wealth and influence ... what are we doing with it?” So, what are we doing, Catholics? Comment MARK REIDY
I
had never watched a film that claimed it could change the world – I have now. 58, which premiered across Australia in late May, aims to trigger a global Christian movement that will eradicate extreme poverty within one generation. It is no doubt a goal many may believe to be impossible, but it is this very sense of negativity that is the biggest barrier according to Dr Scott Todd, one of the film’s promoters. During the DVD introduction of 58, Todd, Senior Advisor of Compassion International, shares an experience he had during a gathering of pastors. “When I asked them what Scripture they first thought of when they thought of the poor, most of them quoted Matthew 26:11 when Jesus said, “You will always have the poor with you ...” It is a quote Todd believes has been taken out of context. He is right. It seems our world, in fact, has simply embraced poverty as a fact of life. As Christians, however, we cannot, and must not, accept this reality. We cannot sit inactively in our churches and communities and allow thousands upon thousands of children to die of preventable diseases, starvation or contaminated water. This is the essence of 58. To ignore this fact is to contradict many other Scriptures such as the story Jesus shared with his disciples immediately before he uttered the words above. “When I was thirsty you gave me a drink, when I was hungry you gave me food to eat … when you did this to the least of these my brethren, you did it to me” (Matt 25: 35 – 40). The title, 58, in fact, is based on Isaiah, chapter 58, which mirrors Jesus’ call to “loose the chains of injustice”, “set the oppressed free” and “share your food with the hungry”. It is why Todd is so adamant any attitude of hopelessness or apathy needs to be countered before full submersion into the full message of the film. “The biggest reason the poor are still with us is simply this”, he says, “We expect they should be”. When viewed with the filter of
58 invites contributions to the networks of financial and spiritual supports needed to counteract poverty.
Christianity, 58 becomes a vehicle of inspiration and hope. There is no doubt viewers will be challenged by the lives of misery and oppression unapologetically thrust before them, but there is always a thread of hope that weaves its way through this film. It is a good sign if one squirms uncomfortably as a burdened Ethiopian mother
struggles to feed her children in a famine-ravaged village or a young boy sniffs glue in the slums of Kenya or girls are trafficked into prostitution in Kolkata or a young child in southern India looks up from the pile of rocks he is breaking and stares longingly into the camera, because this is a sign that we believe such extreme poverty is
PHOTO: ONLINE
not acceptable. But these moments are not designed to trigger a sense of guilt because they are interspersed with the moving testimonies of people who, by the grace of God, have been released from the bondages of poverty and oppression and returned to reach out to those still there. The film is also punctuated by inspir-
ing and challenging Scripture from Isaiah 58, emphasising our call as followers of Christ. This is a film for all Christians, of all denominations. It is intended to ignite a flame of compassion within viewers, as they are exposed to a world as harsh as it is alien. At its conclusion, all are encouraged to meditate on Isaiah 58 and to inspire churches and communities by taking screening kits to spread the message that we can no longer sit back and do nothing. This is a film designed to break the shackles of helplessness that define our inactivity and motivate our sense of justice by recognising Christ in all. Todd inspires us with statistics of hope. In 1981, he tells us, 52 per cent of the world was living in poverty; today, it is 26 per cent. If numbers can drop like this in one generation, he states, we can be the generation that reduces it to zero. There are 138,000,000 dedicated Christians in the US alone, he explains, with an annual income of $2.5 trillion. Todd points out this level of economic power would make Christians the seventh richest country in the world and get them a seat on the G8. “God has given us tremendous wealth and influence,” he challenges us. “What are we doing with it?” 58 is promoted and distributed by Compassion, an international, Christian, child advocacy ministry, and therefore viewers are encouraged to contribute to the wonderful networks of financial and spiritual support this ministry is involved in. However, the call to eradicate extreme poverty in the world is directed to all Christians. There are also many wonderful, life-changing ministries within the Catholic Church that have been making inroads in the war against poverty for many years. But this call must be a unified effort from all who follow Christ. No matter what church we attend we cannot accept, nor ignore, the plight of those suffering each day. 58 is the wake-up call the Christian world needs. There is no more time for talk - now is the time for action. For more information on Catholic agencies, go to: www. catholicmission.org.au or phone Perth Office on 08 9422 7933 and www.caritas.org.au or phone Perth Office on 08 9422 7925 For more information or to view 58, go to: live58.org.au.
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PANORAMA
SATURDAY, JUNE 9 Divine Mercy Healing Mass 2.30pm at St Francis Xavier Parish, Windsor St, East Perth. Main celebrant: Fr Marcellinus. Reconciliation in English and Italian. Followed by Divine Mercy prayers and veneration of first class relic of St Faustina Kowalska. Refreshment afterwards. Enq: John 9457 7771.
NEXT WEEK SUNDAY, JUNE 10 Eucharistic Hour 3pm at Our Lady’s Assumption Parish, Grand Prom, Dianella. Eucharistic hour - World Apostolate of Fatima. Enq: Diana 9339 2614. Solemnity of Corpus Christi – SACRI Association 2pm at the Virgin of Revelation Shrine, 36 Chittering Rd, Bullsbrook. Includes: Meditated Rosary, Benediction, holy anointing, followed by holy Mass. Reconciliation available. Main celebrant: Fr Nicholas. Also, celebration of 25th Anniversary of Dedication of the Shrine. Enq: office 9443 8444. A Latin Mass for the Feast of Corpus Christi 2pm at St Anne’s Parish, 13 Hehir St, Belmont. Followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at approximately 3pm immediately following the Mass. All are invited on this Holy Day, even if only for Benediction. Enq: Fr Michael. TUEDAY, JUNE 12 Formation seminars 7-8pm at St Benedict’s School Hall, Alness St, Applecross. “How do we sow the seed of God’s Kingdom in the world and in our hearts?” Presented by Norma Woodcock. View a weekly short video broadcast at www.thefaith.org.au. Cost: collection. Accredited - CEO - Faith Formation for ongoing renewal - $10 reg. Enq: Norma 9487 1772 or www.normawoodcock.com. THURSDAY, JUNE 14 Healing Mass in honour of St Peregrine – Patron of Cancer 7pm at Sts John and Paul Parish, cnr Pinetree Gully Rd and Wainwright Cl, Willetton. Includes veneration of the Relic of St Peregrine – Patron Saint of cancer sufferers and helper of all in need - and anointing of the sick. Enq: Jim 9457 1539. FRIDAY, JUNE 15 TO SUNDAY, JUNE 17 Triduum - Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary St Simon Peter Parish, Prendiville Ave, Ocean Reef: Fri, June 15 - Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: 6.20pm Rosary and Litanies; 7pm Holy Mass and Consecration followed by Benediction. Sat, June 16 - Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary: 5.20pm Rosary and Litanies; 6pm holy Mass and Consecration followed by Benediction. Sun, June 17 - The Lord’s Day: 4.20pm Rosary and Litanies; 5pm Holy Mass and Consecration followed by Benediction. Celebrant: Fr Zygmunt Smigowski . Enq: Beatrice 9409 6473. SATURDAY, JUNE 16 10th Anniversary of St Padre Pio’s Cannonisation 5pm at St Mary’s Cathedral, Victoria Sq, Perth. Begins with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Divine Mercy, Adoration and Benediction. Confessions available. 6pm Mass. We are also celebrating the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Enq: Des 6278 1540. A Reflection Morning 9-12pm at John XXIII College, Mary Mackillop Room, Mooro Dr, Mt Claremont. A Saturday morning to take space and time to experience some quiet in your life. Cost: $10. Registration and enq: Murray 9383 0444 or graham.murray@johnxxiii. edu.au. SATURDAY, JUNE 16 AND SUNDAY, JUNE 17 Books Books Books 10am-4pm at Myaree Parish, Evershed St, Myaree. Pater Noster School/ parish hall.
UPCOMING SUNDAY, 17 JUNE St Anthony of Paduas’ Feast Day 11am at St Anthony’s Parish, Dundebar Rd, Wanneroo. Begins with Holy Mass followed by Procession and Benediction at 2pm. Between Mass and the Procession there will be a festival in the grounds of St Anthony’s Primary School. This is the 80th Anniversary of this celebration in our parish. Enq: Jeanette stanthony.padua@ perthcatholic.org.au. THURSDAY, JUNE 21
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June 6, 2012
Eucharistic Adoration, Rosary, Benediction and concludes with Mass. Free DVDs on conversion of Don Callaway giveaway. Pilgrimage to Rome/ Medjugorje for Sept. Enq: Eileen 9402 2480 or 0407 471 256 or medjugorje@y7mail.com.
matic praise, and prayer teams available. Help us ‘reach out to the pagans’ or soak in the praise. Enq: Dan 9398 4973.
SATURDAY, JUNE 30
Filipino Mass 3pm at Notre Dame Church, cnr Daley and Wright Sts, Cloverdale. Please bring a plate to share for socialisation after Mass. Enq: Fr Nelson Po 0410 843 412, Elsa 0404 03 8483.
Embracing Womanhood A Spiritual Dimension Over a Cup of Tea 9am-2.30pm at St Thomas More Bateman Parish Hall, cnr Dean and Marsengo Rds, Bateman. Mass celebrant: Fr Clayton. Cost: $5. BYO: lunch, morning tea provided. Daycare available for children. Enq: Gertrude 0411 262 221 or Brenda 0403 226 350 or Carolin 0432 855 605. 1-day seminar “Knowing God in everyday life” - Holy Trinity Community 8.45am-6pm at Faith Centre, 450 Hay St, Perth. By: Fr Tuan and team. Registration and enq: Adri 0412 948 688 or William 0447 388 882 or Bryan 0406 671 388.
NEXT MONTH SATURDAY, JULY 7 Day With Mary 9am-5pm at St Columba Parish, 25 Forrest St, South Perth. Day of prayer and instruction based on the Fatima message. 9am Video; 10.10am holy Mass; Reconciliation, procession of the Blessed Sacrament, Eucharistic Adoration, sermons on Eucharist and on Our Lady, Rosaries and Stations of the Cross. BYO lunch. Enq: Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate 9250 8286. TUESDAY, JULY 10 TO SUNDAY, JULY 15 RSCM Choristers Camp At WA College of Agriculture, Narrogin. Stay tuned for more info. Enq: 9332 4994 or tburbid@bigpond.net.au.
EVERY LAST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH
EVERY MONDAY Evening Adoration and Mass 7pm at St Thomas Parish, Claremont, cnr Melville St and College Rd. Eucharistic adoration, reconciliation, evening prayer and benediction, followed by Mass and night prayer at 8pm. Enq: Kim on 9384 0598 or email to claremont@perthcatholic.org.au.
LAST MONDAY OF THE MONTH Be Still in His Presence – Ecumenical Christian Program 7.30-8.45pm at St Swithun Anglican Church, 195 Lesmurdie St, Lesmurdie (hall behind church). Begins with songs of praise and worship, silent time, lectio divina, small group sharing and a cuppa at the end. Enq: Lynne 9293 3848 or 043 5252 941. EVERY TUESDAY Novena to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal 6pm at Pater Noster Church, Marmion and Evershed Sts, Myaree. Mass at 5.30pm followed by benediction. Enq: John 040 8952 194. Novena to God the Father 7.30pm at St Joachim’s parish hall, Victoria Park. Novena followed by reflection and discussions on forthcoming Sunday Gospel. Enq: Jan 9284 1662. EVERY FIRST TUESDAY
REGULAR EVENTS
Short MMP Cenacle for Priests 2pm at Edel Quinn Centre, 36 Windsor St, East Perth. Enq: Fr Watt 9376 1734.
EVERY SUNDAY
EVERY WEDNESDAY
Gate of Heaven Catholic Radio Join the Franciscans of the Immaculate from 7.309pm on Radio Fremantle 107.9FM for Catholic radio broadcast of EWTN and our own live shows. Enq: radio@ausmaria.com.
Holy Spirit of Freedom Community 7.30pm at The Church of Christ, 111 Stirling St, Perth. We are delighted to welcome everyone to attend our Holy Spirit of Freedom praise meeting. Enq: 042 3907 869 or hsofperth@gmail.com.
Pilgrim Mass - Shrine of the Virgin of the Revelation 2pm at Shrine, 36 Chittering Rd, Bullsbrook. Commencing with Rosary followed by Benediction. Reconciliation is available before every celebration. Anointing of the sick administered during Mass every second Sunday of the month. Pilgrimage in honour of the Virgin of the Revelation last Sunday of the month. Side entrance to church and shrine open daily between 9am-5pm. Enq Sacri 9447 3292.
Bible Study at Cathedral 6.15pm at St Mary’s Cathedral, 17 Victoria Sq, Perth. Deepen your faith through reading and reflecting on holy Scripture by Fr Jean-Noel. Meeting room beneath Cathedral. Enq: Marie 9223 1372.
EVERY FIRST SUNDAY St Mary’s Cathedral Youth Group – Fellowship with Pizza 5pm at St Mary’s Cathedral, 17 Victoria Sq, Perth. Begins with youth Mass followed by fellowship downstairs in parish centre. Bring a plate to share. Enq: Bradley on youthfromsmc@gmail.com. Singles Prayer and Social Group 7pm at All Saints Chapel, Allendale Sq, 77 St George’s Terrace, Perth. Begins with a Holy Hour (Eucharistic adoration, the Rosary and a teaching) followed by dinner at a local restaurant. Meet new people, pray and socialise with other single men and women. Enq: Veronica 0403 841 202. Divine Mercy 1.30pm at St Francis Xavier Parish, 25 Windsor St, East Perth. Homily: The Body and Blood of Jesus. Main Celebrant: Fr Johnson Malayil. With exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Reconciliation, holy Rosary, Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Divine Mercy prayers, followed by benediction and veneration of first class relic of St Faustina Kowalska. Refreshments afterwards. Next Divine Mercy: Sunday, June 3. Enq: John 9457 7771. EVERY SECOND SUNDAY Healing Hour 7-8pm at St Lawrence Parish, Balcatta. Join us for songs of praise and worship, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and prayers for the sick. Enq: Fr Irek Czech SDS or parish office Tues - Thur, 9am2.30pm 9344 7066. EVERY THIRD SUNDAY Oblates of St Benedict – Meeting 2pm at St Joseph’s Convent, York St, South Perth. For all interested in studying the Rule of St Benedict and its relevance to the everyday life of today for laypeople: Vespers and afternoon tea afterwards. Enq: Secretary 9457 5758. EVERY FOURTH SUNDAY
Auslan Café - Australian Sign Language 10.30am-12pm at Emmanuel Centre, 25 Windsor St, Perth. Learn sign language and share a cuppa. Following dates: Thursday, July 26; Thursday, August 16; Thursday, September 20. Enq: Emma 9328 8113 or emmanuelcentre@westnet.com.au.
Holy Hour for Vocations to the Priesthood, Religious Life 2-3pm at Infant Jesus Parish, Wellington St, Morley. The hour includes exposition of the blessed Eucharist, silent prayer, scripture and prayers of intercession. Come and pray that those discerning vocations can hear clearly God’s call.
FRIDAY, 29 JUNE
EVERY SECOND AND FOURTH MONDAY
Medjugorje Evening Prayer 7-9pm at St.Lawrence and Mary Immaculate Parish, 392 Albert St, Balcatta. Includes:
A Ministry to the Un-Churched 12.30-1.30pm at St John’s Pro-Cathedral, Victoria Ave, Perth (opposite church offices). With charis-
Holy Hour - Catholic Youth Ministry CYM is back in 2012. Mass at 5.30pm and Holy Hour (adoration) at 6.30pm at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, 40A Mary St, Highgate. Enq: www.cym.com or 9422 7912. Adonai Ladies Prayer Group 10am in the upper room of St Joseph’s Parish, 3 Salvado Rd, Subiaco. Come and join us for charismatic prayer and praise. Enq. Win 9387 2802 or Noreen 9298 9938. EVERY FIRST WEDNESDAY Holy Hour Prayer for Priests 7.30-8.30pm at Holy Spirit Parish, 2 Keaney Pl, City Beach. All welcome. Enq: Linda 9341 3079. Novena to St Mary of the Cross MacKillop 7-7.45pm at Blessed Mary MacKillop Parish, cnr Cassowary Dr and Pelican Pde, Ballajura. Begins with Mass, novena prayers and benediction. Followed by healing prayers and anointing of the sick. Enq: Madi 9249 9093 or Gerry 0417 187 240. EVERY SECOND WEDNESDAY Chaplets of Divine Mercy 7.30pm at St Thomas More Parish, Dean Rd, Bateman, on the second Wednesday of each month. A powerful, prayerful, sung devotion accompanied by exposition and followed by benediction. Next devotion: Wednesday, June 13. Enq: George 9310 9493 or 6242 0702 (w). EVERY THURSDAY Divine Mercy 11am at Ss John and Paul Church, Pinetree Gully Rd, Willetton. Pray the Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy and for the consecrated life, especially here in John Paul Parish. Concludes with veneration of the first class relic of St Faustina. Please do come and join us in prayer. Enq: John 9457 7771. St Mary’s Cathedral Praise Meeting 7.45pm every Thursday at the Legion of Mary’s Edel Quinn Centre, 36 Windsor St, East Perth. Includes praise, song and healing ministry. Enq: Kay 9382 3668 or fmi@flameministries.org. Group Fifty - Charismatic Renewal Group 7.30pm at the Redemptorist Monastery, 150 Vincent St, North Perth. Includes prayer, praise and Mass. Enq: Elaine 9440 3661. EVERY FIRST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH Prayer in Style of Taizé 7.30-8.30pm at Our Lady of Grace Parish, 3 Kitchener St, North Beach. Includes prayer, song and silence in candlelight – symbol of Christ the light of the world. Taizé info: www.taize.fr. Enq: secretary 9448 4888 or 9448 4457.
EVERY FIRST FRIDAY Healing Mass 7pm at St Peter’s Parish, Inglewood. Praise and worship, exposition and Eucharistic adoration, benediction and anointing of the sick followed by holy Mass and fellowship. Celebrants Fr Dat and invited priests. 6.45pm Reconciliation. Enq: Mary Ann 0409 672 304, Prescilla 0433 457 352 and Catherine 043 3923 083. Holy Hour for Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life 7pm at Little Sisters of the Poor Chapel, 2 Rawlins St, Glendalough. Mass followed by adoration with Fr Doug Harris. All welcome. Refreshments provided. Healing and Anointing Mass 8.45am Pater Noster Church, Evershed St, Myaree. Begins with Reconciliation followed by 9am Mass of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, anointing of the sick and prayers to St Peregrine. Enq: Joy 9337 7189. Catholic Faith Renewal Evening 7.30pm at Ss John and Paul Parish, Pinetree Gully Rd, Willetton – Songs of Praise and Prayer, sharing by a priest followed by thanksgiving Mass and light refreshments after Mass. Enq: Kathy 9295 0913 or Ann 0412 166 164 or catholicfaithrenewal@gmail.com. Communion of Reparation All Night Vigils 7pm-1.30am at Corpus Christi Church, Lochee St, Mosman Park or St Gerard Majella Church, cnr Ravenswood Dr/Majella Rd, Westminster (Mirrabooka). The Vigils consist of two Masses, Adoration, Benediction, prayers and Confession in reparation for the outrages committed against the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Enq: Vicky 0400 282 357 or Fr Giosue 9349 2315or John/Joy 9344 2609. EVERY SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH Discover the Spirituality of St Francis of Assisi 12pm at St Brigid’s Catholic Parish Centre. The Secular Franciscans of Midland Fraternity meet for lunch followed by 1-3pm meeting. Enq: Antoinette 9297 2314. EVERY FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Healing Mass 12.35pm at St Thomas Parish, cnr Melville St and College Rd, Claremont. Spiritual leader Fr Waddell. Enq: Kim 9384 0598, claremont@perthcatholic.org. au. EVERY LAST SATURDAY Novena Devotions – Our Lady Vailankanni of Good Health 5pm at Holy Trinity Parish, 8 Burnett St, Embleton. Followed by Mass at 6pm. Enq: George 9272 1379. EVERY FOURTH SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Voice of the Voiceless Healing Mass 12pm at St Brigid’s Parish, 211 Aberdeen St, Northbridge. Bring a plate to share after Mass. Enq: Frank 9296 7591 or 0408 183 325.
GENERAL Free Divine Mercy Image for Parishes High quality oil painting and glossy print – Divine Mercy Promotions. Images are of very high quality. For any parish willing to accept and place inside the church. Oil paintings - 160 x 90cm and glossy print - 100 x 60cm. Enq: Irene 9417 3267 (w).
Jeanne Jugan (foundress). Registration and enq: Sr Marie 9443 3155. Resource Centre for Personal Development The Holistic Health Seminar “The Instinct to Heal’’, every Tuesday 3-4.30pm; and RCPD2 “Internalise Principles of Successful Relationships and Use Emotional Intelligence and Communication Skills” every Tuesday 4.30-6.30pm, 197 High St, Fremantle - Tuesdays 3-4.30pm. Enq: Eva 0409 405 585. Bookings are essential. Courses held at The Faith Centre in 2012 450 Hay St, Perth 1. RCPD2 - Internalise Principles of Successful Relationships and Use Emotional Intelligence and Communication Skills This course provides knowledge of principles that, if applied, will improve all relationships. Skills of self-analysis are taught as well as communication skills. Mondays: 5-7pm, until 10 Dec. For enquiries or bookings ph Paul 0402 222 578. 2. RCPD4 – Increase Personal and Spiritual Awareness and Improve Relationships This course promotes self-awareness and spiritual growth. Emotional development is explained in order to improve understanding between persons. Study of Psychology and Theology. Mondays: 10am–12.30pm, until 10 Dec. For enquiries or bookings ph Eva 0409 405 585. 3. Higher Certificate in Biblical Studies The Higher Certificate of Biblical Studies is a distance education program that can be followed in your own home at your own pace with periodic face-to-face contact workshops. Tutorial assistance is available as required. It is equivalent to a one-year tertiary course, although it is recommended that you aim to complete it in two years. For enquiries and enrolment, ph The Faith Centre on 6140 2420. Is your son or daughter unsure of what to do this year? Suggest a Certificate IV course to discern God’s purpose for their life. They will also learn more about the Catholic faith and develop skills in communication and leadership. Acts 2 College of Mission & Evangelisation (National Code 51452). Enq: Jane 9202 6859. AA Alcoholics Anonymous Is alcohol costing you more than just money? Enq: AA 3253 5666. Saints and Sacred Relics Apostolate Invite SSRA, Perth invites interested parties, parish priests, leaders of religious communities, lay associations, to organise relic visitations to their own parishes, communities, etc. We have available authenticated relics, mostly first-class, of Catholic saints and blesseds including Sts Mary Mackillop, Padre Pio, Anthony of Padua, Therese of Lisieux, Maximilian Kolbe and Simon Stock and Blessed Pope John Paul II. Free of charge and all welcome. Enq: Giovanny 0478 201 092 or ssra-perth@ catholic.org. Enrolments, Year 7, 2014 La Salle College is now accepting enrolments for Year 7, 2014. For a prospectus and enrolment form please contact college reception on 9274 6266 or email lasalle@lasalle.wa.edu.au.
Sacred Heart Pioneers Is there anyone out there who would like to know more about the Sacred Heart pioneers? If so, please contact Spiritual Director Fr Doug Harris 9444 6131 or John 9457 7771.
Pellegrini Books Wanted An order of Sisters in Italy is looking for the following: The Living Pyx of Jesus, Fervourings From Galilee’s Hills, Fervourings From the LoveBroken Heart of Christ, Fervourings From the Lips of the Mast, Listening to the Indwelling Presence, Sheltering the Divine Outcast, Daily Inspection and Cleansing of the Living Temple of God, and Staunch Friends of Jesus, the Lover of Youth. If you are able to help, please contact Justine on 0419 964 624 or justine@waterempire.com.
St Philomena’s Chapel 3/24 Juna Drive, Malaga. Mass of the day: Monday 6.45am. Vigil Masses: Mon-Fri 4.45pm. Enq: Fr David 9376 1734.
Secondhand Electric Organ Good working condition. Angela Vigolo would like to give it away to a good home; maybe a parish would like it? Enq: Angela 9276 9317.
Mary MacKillop Merchandise Available for sale from the Mary MacKillop Centre. Enq: Sr Maree 041 4683 926 or 08 9334 0933.
Thankyou To all who attended and participated in Africa Day Mass Celebration – God bless you and we will keep you updated with upcoming events. Bibiana Kwaramba.
Financially Disadvantaged People Requiring Low Care Aged Care Placement The Little Sisters of the Poor community - set in beautiful gardens in the suburb of Glendalough. “Making the elderly happy, that is everything!” St
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CATHOLICS CORNER Retailer of Catholic products specialising in gifts, cards and apparel for Baptism, Communion and Confirmation. Ph 9456 1777. Shop 12, 64-66 Bannister Rd, Canning Vale. Open Mon-Sat.
ROOM FOR RENT IN A CATHOLIC SINGLE WOMEN’S HOUSEHOLD This Mt Hawthorn house is walking distance to Glendalough train station and St Bernadette’s, Glendalough. Close to the beach and cafes. We are looking for someone who is a Christian and youngish (2035). Contact: Bridget: 0408 496 610 or Caroline: 0421 818 887.
ARE YOU BUYING OR SELLING real estate or a business? Why not ask Excel Settlements for a quote for your settlement. We offer reasonable fees, excellent service and no hidden costs. Ring Excel on 9481 4499 for a quote. Check our web site on www.excelsettlements.com.au.
ACCOMMODATION
BRENDAN HANDYMAN SERVICES Home, building maintenance, repairs and renovations. NOR. Ph 0427 539 588.
RICH HARVEST YOUR CHRISTIAN SHOP Looking for Bibles, CDs, books, cards, gifts, statues, Baptism/Communion apparel, religious vestments, etc? Visit us at 39 Hulme Ct (off McCoy St), Myaree. Ph 9329 9889 (after 10.30am Mon to Sat). We are here to serve. KINLAR VESTMENTS www.kinlarvestments.com.au Quality handmade and decorated vestments: albs, stoles, chasubles, altar linen, banners, etc. 12 Favenc Way, Padbury. By appointment only. Ph Vickii on 9402 1318, 0409 114 093 or kinlar.vestments@ gmail.com.
BOOK BINDING
HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION Esperance holiday accommodation, three bedroom house, fully furnished. Phone 08 9076 5083.
TRADE SERVICES
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Your handyperson. No job too small. SOR. Jim 0413 309 821. BRICK RE-POINTING Ph Nigel 9242 2952.
CONGRATULATIONS LAZARO TOMAZ SANZ GONZALEZ: on becoming a grandpa to a beautiful baby boy, Miguel Eduardo Gallo Sanz – born on May 19, weighing 4.8kg, 55cm long. Although far, you are in our hearts and we share the joy with you.
NEW BOOK BINDING, general book repairs; rebinding; new ribbons; old leather bindings restored. Tydewi Bindery 0422 968 572.
PICASSO PAINTING Top service. Ph 0419 915 836, 9345 0557 or fax 9345 0505. PERROTT PAINTING Pty Ltd For all your residential, commercial painting requirements. Ph Tom Perrott 9444 1200. WRR LAWN MOWING AND WEED SPRAYING Garden clean ups and rubbish removal. Get rid of bindii, jojo and other unsightly weeds. Based in Tuart Hill. Enq: 9443 9243 or 0402 326 637.
HAIRDRESSER RURI STUDIO FOR HAIR – Vincent and Miki welcome you to their newly opened - international award winning salon. Shop 2, 401 Oxford St, Leederville. 9444 3113.
FURNITURE REMOVAL ALL AREAS. Competitive rates. Mike Murphy Ph 0416 226 434.
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TAX SERVICE
DANIA ALVAREZ CAMEJO: Congratulations first-time abuelita! Enjoy the new addition of your family tios Denier and Iliana Maria Gonzales and Yannett Sanz Ponce. Much love from David and Yarelis.
QUALITY TAX RETURNS PREPARED by registered tax agent with over 35 years’ experience. Call Tony Marchei on 0412 055 184 for appointment. AXXO Accounting & Management, Unit 20/222 Walter Rd, Morley.
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ACROSS 3 Communion wafers 6 Merton’s university 8 Biblical twin 9 Son of Jacob 11 Symbol of hope 13 Morality 15 Herod offered this much of his kingdom to Herodias’ daughter (Mk 6:23) 17 Holy one 20 “… that I have sinned exceedingly in thought, word and ___.” 21 Dominic who is patron saint of choirboys 23 Nephew of Abraham 24 Pope before Benedict III 26 ___ box 27 See 9A 30 Title for a priest (abbr) 32 Like Theresa of Avila or John of the Cross 34 Papal emissary 37 He gave Hannah words of comfort 38 Catholic Surrealist painter 39 Read at Mass 40 Act of Contrition word DOWN 1 Angelus time 2 It burned without being consumed 3 Minor prophet of the 6th century 4 Son of Adam 5 They take solemn vows 7 “…the ___ of the air and the fish
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of the sea…” 10 Book of the Pentateuch 11 What Catholics receive on the first day of Lent 12 NT epistle 14 “Regina ___” 16 Brother 18 Catholic fitness guru, Charles ___ 19 ___ Dame 20 Joseph was told in one to flee to Egypt 22 ___ in the Garden 25 Chapter and ___ 27 An end to repent? 28 It is given after the Gospel 29 Saint item 31 The ___ of Galilee 32 “… begotten not ___ …” 33 “Give us ___ day our daily bread” 35 ___ Friday 36 “… the Lord is with ___.”
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
20
THIS N THAT
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June 6, 2012
Friar beats the fire at Port Kennedy Sunday Sesh SAINT Bernadette’s Youth Group hosted their very first Sunday Sesh on the evening of May 20 to kickstart their upcoming Stronger Discipleship Programme. The evening began at 5pm with mass celebrated by parish priest Father Gavin Gomez and music performed by parishioners Louise, Callum and Alasdair Vincent. Following mass, guests gathered in the Parish hall for a sausage sizzle and fellowship where they were welcomed by parishioners. Once it was completely dark outside, guests were guided to the School basketball courts to take part in an extreme skateboarding demonstration by Friar Gabriel (from the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate). A crowd of close to 80 formed and Father Gavin opened the skateboarding demonstration with a prayer. Friar Gabriel leaped into action, awing the crowd with his skateboarding techniques and tricks. The crowd was especially amazed by Friar Gabriel’s skateboarding jumps over teenagers lying in rows of 5 and his skateboarding jumps over and through various props set on fire. After all this excitement, guests returned to the Parish hall where
Friar Gabriel FFI shows his chops as a skateboarder at a Catholic youth gathering in the Rockingham suburb of Port Kennedy. PHOTOS: MICHAEL CONNELLY
they listened to a talk by Paul Kelly (from Aquinus College) on what it means to be a Christian. Paul’s talk introduced guests to beautiful pieces of religious art, stories of saints and the true link between Christianity and The Lord of the Rings stories. Paul not only challenged ideas and actions but shared his journey and reminded Christians to not be embarrassed of their faith and love
for Jesus but to thank and pray to the Lord wherever they are, even at McDonalds before eating a Big Mac! Paul Kelly’s talk was a fitting precursor for St Bernadette’s Youth Group’s announcement of their upcoming Stronger Discipleship Programme that commenced in the Parish on June 3, running monthly. For more info on St Bernie’s Youth sms 0467 968 691.
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