The Record Newspaper 07 September 2011

“Now is the time for all people of goodwill to work together for a better way for asylum seekers”

To migrate

BY TIM WALLACE

THE HIGH Court’s rejection of the federal government’s deal to divert asylum seekers to Malaysia has been welcomed by Catholic agencies as an opportunity to chart a more humane course in the nation’s attitudes and treatment of people entering the country without authorisation.

The Australian Catholic bishops’ representative for migrant and refugee issues, Bishop Gerard Hanna, said the decision to grant a permament injunction against the deportation of two asylum seekers to Malaysia invited neither celebration nor recrimination.

“Rather, now is the time for all people of goodwill to work together to find a better way of dealing with asylum seekers,” the bishop said.

The Church was ready to work with the government, and “in pursuit of the common good for all humanity” he expressed hope the government would still receive the extra 4000 refugees over the next four years that it had agreed to take in exchange for Malaysia taking 800 people who had arrived in Australia by boat.

“Malaysia is host to over 94,000 refugees; Australia must continue to take part in this responsibility which is a global phenomenon,” Bishop Hanna said.

The Catholic Church could contribute to finding an alternative approach to mandatory detention and offshore processing in several ways, said the director of the Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office (ACMRO), Fr Maurizio Pettena CS.

One way was to assist with ethical reflection on the issue, revisiting the terminology used to characterise those arriving in Australia through unofficial channels.

“We may be able to talk about unauthorised arrivals but not illegal immigrants. To migrate is not a criminal act,” Fr Pettena said.

“Based on the words of Christ, ‘I was a stranger and you invited me in,’ in Matthew 25:35, the welcoming of refugees for us as Christians is non-negotiable.”

“We are really calling for a community reassessment, where people can be welcomed within the community. We would like to encourage the government to approach this issue a different way.

“The Church has a good record assisting refugees to become part of the community. We can really offer experience on the ground.”

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is not criminal A consumer guarantee: for this life and the next

BY ROBERT HIINI

SHOPPERS streamed through a busy Forrest Chase in the heart of Perth’s shopping district last Sunday as one group of people made a big noise with a special offer of their own.

Dressed in his Dominican robes and sporting a beard Padre Pio would’ve been proud of, Fr Nicolas Falzun OP walked slowly up to the microphone with his accordian strapped to his chest; a lone figure.

As he began to play, almost discreetly, faces in the interweaving streams of shoppers began turning from every direction.

“If you come along it could change your life. And if it doesn’t then you’ve only wasted an hour,” one volunteer, one of many handing out invitations on flyers to the crowds, said to a passing shopper.

Within 15 minutes, Fr Nick, as he is usually called, was joined on stage by fellow musicians with guitars, drums and a violin.

They were all members of the Neocatechumenal Way, in the heart of Perth’s CBD to evangelise through music, personal testimonies and personally invitations to anyone within reach to their upcoming catecheses around Perth.

Sounding as Hispanic as the Way’s founders Kiko Arguello and Carmen Hernández, their voices rang out as they sang “He rose from death” and “Allelulia”.

Watching from the pedestrian overpass, an Australian in his midtwenties said he wouldn’t normally be attracted “to this type of thing” but was a “big fan” of the music as Neocatechumenal member Greg Barron handed him a flyer.

Mr Barron was enthusiastic without being pushy as he handed out flyers to commuters across the overhead walkway. Greg and his wife Barbara have been involved in “the Way” for many years.

Barbara Barron said their marriage was careering towards an end when members of the Way visited their parish, inviting them to a series of catecheses similar to the ones they were handing out invita-

Continued on Page 5

Back from the brink, Stacey aims to warn youth

BY MARK REIDY

“ONE is too many and a thousand is not enough,” is how Stacey Hollingsworth explains her 18-year descent into the darkness of drug addiction. Today she is determined to share her traumatic experiences with others in an effort to help them avoid the suffering that she inflicted

on herself and her family. In an interview with The Record, Ms Hollingsworth lamented that she must now live with the pain of never regaining full custody of her two children, and that the selfinflicted scars on her mind and body will never disappear. Today she credits her recovery to her father’s daily prayers and the intervention of support servic-

es such as Linda Watson’s House of Hope, a Pentecostal church and a women’s refuge, and personal involvement from people such as Archbishop Barry Hickey, who she remembers sitting by her hospital bed holding her hand. She is also on a mission to warn young people no one is immune to the temptations – and devastation – that comes from drug use.

Ms Hollingsworth is hoping to speak at schools and youth groups to emphasise that drugs do not discriminate and that young people do not have to come from a background of family brokenness or poverty or abuse to fall victim to their insidious nature.

“My parents have always been together,” she said, “And I was always an excellent student.” In

fact Stacey’s future looked bright when, in Year 10, she received a three-year scholarship. She also excelled in athletics.

But in the following year, her dreams were shattered when her knees gave way and she found solace in drinking alcohol on the weekends. To fund her increasing binges she left school to work as

Fr Nicolas Falzun OP takes the music of the Neocatechumenal Way to the crowds, top. Members of the Way, joined by passers-by, bottom left, dance to the distinctive, Spanish-flavoured music of fellow members. PHOTOS: ROBERT HIINI

Anglican dean goes for laughs

BY ROBERT HIINI

TO THE best of his knowledge, the only heresy Anglican Bishop John Shepherd was guilty of was supporting Essendon, Monsignor Michael Keating said at a special Cathedral Vespers ceremony last Sunday.

The lighthearted comment came during the introduction of special guest homilist and dean of St George’s Anglican Cathedral, the Very Revd Dr John Shepherd, the day after the West Australian newspaper (3-4 September) ran an article noting his controversial views on aspects of revelation.

Citing a back ailment, Dean Shepherd provoked an early chuckle from the crowd saying his desire to speak at St Mary’s was self-interested.

“Now I wouldn’t like this to go any further, but actually [my congregation’s prayers] haven’t done any good at all” Dean Shepherd said, adding the prayers of Catholics at St Mary’s might do the trick.

“If they do, I’m converting,” he said.

Dean Shepherd’s visit was the first time an Anglican cleric had ever preached in St Mary’s Cathedral in living memory.

As custodian of a cathedral, Dean Shepherd spoke of the mission he shared with St Mary’s Dean in preserving buildings that “proclaim the beauty and majesty of God to a largely cynical and unbelieving world.”

The dean preached on the last judgement in light of the Vespers scripture reading (2 Cor 5:1.6-15).

“The idea of the last judgement can be a very terrifying thing,” he said, citing believers’ sense of shame at the thought of having

sins exposed. The last judgement, however, was not something that could be contracted out of.

Paul’s words provide another way of looking at the matter, Dean Shepherd said. “Is there something that can help us overcome our fear of the last judgement ... to welcome the last judgement?

“If we understood the last judgement to be an objective, just, understanding and merciful assessment of our lives, could we bring ourselves to welcome it?” he said, singling out Christ as our

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advocate. “There’ll be nothing to fear because the one who will tell us about ourselves is the only one who will really know the facts of our lives and the circumstances in which we’ve lived,” he said.

“He’ll not be trying to exclude us, he’ll be doing everything to include us ... What he’ll do is make excuses for us; that’s what loving people always do.”

The dean also addressed the vexed matter of justification.

“That’s why Paul was so confident about the last judgement, he even said he knew the result.

We’re justified he said. We’ve passed. We’ve been accepted.

“How God will sort it all out we don’t know. Thank goodness, we don’t need to know. He can cope and we will leave it to him,” the dean said.

“There’ll be no destruction; that’s poppycock. There’ll be love all round and we’ll come out all right because of God.”

In reference to his earlier jest, Mgr Keating announced that a West Coast Eagles flag would fly at St Mary’s from Monday onwards during finals season.

Thornlie highlights its migrants

Sacred Heart parish in Thornlie prepared for Migrant and Refugee Sunday called by the nation’s Catholic bishops a fortnight ago by inviting parishioners to mark on a special world map their country of origin. The map was then offered in procession on the day and resulted in 47 countries being represented in the parish. During mass, musicians played and sang songs in different languages while many parishioners dressed in their national clothing.

Caritas Perth best donation point

Caritas Australia’s Perth office is urging Catholics in WA who wish to donate to the organisation’s special East Africa Appeal to funnel donations via the organisation’s office in Perth. In a statement to The Record, Caritas Perth’s Dr Judith Woodward said that while it was pleasing to see the organisation’s appeal featured in the last edition of The Record, the national contact details in the story were not appropriate. “Because of the pressures on our national office in Sydney and problems in accessing the office online and by phone it would be far more efficient for people and organisations to send their donations to Caritas Perth, Box 9830, Perth, WA 6848, or ring us on (08) 9422 7925,” she said.

We regret the error

Last week’s article “How my pilgrimage relived a little divine Intervention” (pages 10-11) incorrectly named the biblical figure as ‘Zacchariah’. However it was Zacchaeus, the wealthy tax collector who “wanted to see who Jesus was” and therefore ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him.

Fremantle –Archbishop Hickey

Mass and Investiture for Equestrian Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, Subiaco – Archbishop Hickey 12

14

Address for “Inside the Vatican” Film Festival, Art Gallery of WA – Archbishop Hickey

Candidates, St Luke’s, Woodvale – Bishop Sproxton

15 Mass and Blessing of Servite Sisters’ House, Gosnells – Archbishop Hickey

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Woodvale – Bishop Sproxton Installation of Rev Ron Larkin as UCA Moderator –Fr Peter Porteous OSM

16-18 Parish Visitation, Morley – Archbishop Hickey

18

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Maria SS Addolorata Festival Procession and Mass, Dianella – Archbishop Hickey

Visit Confirmation Candidates Majella and St Gerard’s Schools – Archbishop Hickey

Famine threatens thousands in just four camps

THE Australian Salesian Mission Office has launched an appeal to help the starving in the Horn of Africa in response to an urgent request for help from the co-ordinator of the Salesian relief programme in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Brother Cesare Bullo.

The Mission Office’s project officer, Br Michael Lynch, said Br Cesare had written to him about conditions in the country.

Notre Dame wins cordon bleu ranking for fi fth year

THE release of the 2012 edition of the Good Universities Guide to Australian Universities and Private Colleges has seen The university of Notre Dame Australia awarded a five star rating for the fifth year in a row.

Notre Dame has consistently achieved five stars in the areas of Teaching Quality and Graduate Satisfaction with the 2012 edition also acknowledging the University’s entry flexibility for the first time.

A new category, Domestic Graduates: Teaching Quality, Generic Skills and Overall Satisfaction, earned a further three five star ratings.

The vice-chancellor, Professor Celia Hammond, said she was delighted with the ratings.

“The consistency of these significant results in the areas of Teaching Quality and Graduate Satisfaction are testament to the commitment of our outstanding staff.

“We are delighted to also achieve a five star rating for our entry flexibility. Our admissions process is a distinctive characteristic of our university. Along with a personal statement to support why they want to study at Notre Dame, each prospective student receives an interview with the hope that it will assist them in making their decision to study at our university,” she said.

The Good Universities Guide rates a university’s performance on a broad range of indicators.

“The people are waiting in vain for saving rain,” Br Cesare wrote. “Then they start the march by foot, with a bundle full of nothing, for a journey hundreds of kilometres long, looking for places where the rain has fallen.

“It is a great gamble to walk for days without food, knowing that death is just around the corner.

“The few who succeed in finishing the journey arrive exhausted in

refugee camps in lands that have suffered droughts similar to theirs.

“The Horn of Africa is facing an incredible tragedy because of the droughts and famine affecting Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Eritrea, Uganda and Djibouti. We have had no rain for many months.

“While the needs are enormous –medical assistance, education, protection against ethnic and political abuses, social and moral develop-

ment etc – in the current emergency our priority is to help people to survive.

“There are four Ethiopian refugee camps. These are at Awbare, Shader, Bokol Mayo and Melka Dida and they are already overcrowded. More than a thousand refugees and displaced persons are arriving daily in this region, most suffering from malnutrition.

“We are bringing basic food,

especially water and multivitamin biscuits for the children. There are hundreds and of thousands of people whose lives are in danger.

“We cannot remain indifferent and impassive in this great tragedy. We are urgently looking for funds to purchase food and urgently needed medications.”

Donations can be sent to the Salesian Missions Office at PO Box 264, Ascot Vale, Victoria 3032.

McCormack College throws shoulder to appeal for Africa

STUDENTS and staff from Irene McCormack Catholic College in the northern suburb of Brighton raised over $4,700 for famine victims in Africa in recent weeks.

The result came after the entire school community, led by student councillors, college prefects and

students of African descent, decided to raise awareness and respond.

Over 12 million people are facing the worst drought in over 60 years, the result being a drastic need of food, medication and basic facilities. Half these people are children. College care groups shared prayers,

held discussions and created posters to raise awareness of the crisis. Religion classes created visual aids designed to prompt members of the school community to come together and act for those in need. A lunchtime concert was organised, including songs with

social justice themes while African students danced for an audience of their peers in costume.

Students were invited to wear the “Colours of Africa” (black, red, green and white) to school and to donate to Caritas Australia’s national appeal for eastern Africa.

Students and staff surround a giant map of Africa drawn up as part of the school’s effort to raise funds for Caritas’s African appeal.

PHOTO: MCCORMACK COLLEGE

Consultancy raises radical school funding idea

BY ROBERT HIINI

A PAPER released as part of an ongoing federal education review has suggested a radical overhaul to the way schools are funded.

If adopted by the federal government, the plan would see each student receive the same base level of funding across Australia, regardless of whether they attend a public or private school.

Written by the Allen Consulting Group, the report was one of four

commissioned by the Gonski Review. Each report was authored by a different research firm and all were released on 31 August.

Allen were commissioned to look into the feasibility of a resource standard where basic per student funding would be based on average cost amongst schools where at least 80 per cent of students were achieving national minimum standards.

Another report authored by the Nous Group recommended that funding be cut to those schools

that did not take problem students. “In our view there ought to be some pressure on schools to take on more under-performing students,” the report said.

The federal education minister, Peter Garrett, was equivocal when asked what he thought should replace the current scheme which provides funding according to a cost average across widely varying government schools.

“We now have, for the [Gonski Review] panel, four pieces of work

in front of them for their consideration”, he said. “I don’t intend to pre-empt their findings in any way. What I will do is look forward, with great interest, to the recommendations they bring forward to us by the end of the year.”

Mr Garrett got into rhetorical difficulty late last month when providing an example of alleged funding inequity in a speech to principals.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported the minister as pointing to

Back from brink, Stacey wants to help

Continued from Page 1

a dental assistant and moved out of the family home.

Despite working her way up to becoming manager of an endodontic surgery, Stacey’s life outside of work was deteriorating as she moved from alcohol to marijuana and then to experimenting with acid trips. “It was such a subtle and deceptive progression,” she recalls. “I was hanging out with older people and I kept thinking to myself, ‘I’ll just try it once and that will be it’, but that is always the danger with any sort of drug.”

This is one of the messages that she wants to give to teenagers, who today face a more prevalent drug culture than ever before. “The reality is that the feeling that you get through drug use is what makes it so dangerous. It is so easy to get hooked straight away and therefore so easy to accept the next step.”

Stacey’s life quickly became immersed in a world of injecting amphetamines, unemployment, bulimia, crime and finally a near death experience through a house fire while under the influence of drugs.

It was only then that her parents began to suspect the self-destructive lifestyle that was destroying their then 19-year-old daughter, but it was not until her father was called to the eastern states to bail Stacey from prison that they realised the full extent of her deterioration.

Stacey’s parents brought her back to WA, but despite their best efforts could only stand by helplessly and watch her stumble even

deeper into a out of control spiral of addiction, criminal association, serious fraud, jail stints, a violent relationship, failed rehabilitation attempts, self-harm, mental health

“Without God I would not have survived those dark years.”

issues, her two children removed through welfare intervention, relationship breakdown, loneliness, suicidal behaviour, the loss of a finger through dangerous

injection methods and permanent heart damage. Stacey said that her parents lived every day praying that they would not receive a knock on the door telling them that she was dead.

Stacey today credits her recovery to her father’s daily prayers and the intervention of support services such as Linda Watson’s House of Hope as well as personal involvement from people such as Archbishop Barry Hickey.

“Without God,” she says, “I would not have survived those dark years”. In fact, Stacey, who now receives regular counselling

and is in a stable relationship, is expecting a baby in January, and will be naming her child Faith if it is a girl.

“I now want to restore the selfdignity that I lost during those years and give something back to society”, she says. “If sharing my experience can save just one person going down the same track that I did, then some good can emerge from the hell I put myself and my family through.”

Anyone wanting more information or wanting to invite Stacey to speak at a school or youth group, can contact her on 0406 488 714.

Fr Mintoff, a Franciscan from Malta has taught Social Justice for many years at the Catholic Teachers' College in Malta & the University of Malta.

He has been the Chief Education Officer within the Malta Education Department for a considerable number of years.

He is the Director of the Peace Laboratory in Malta, which he founded himself almost 40 years ago. He is also the Chairman of the Justice and Peace Commission in Europe.

Whilst in Perth his itinerary is as follows:

SATURDAY 10TH SEPT: Celebrates Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Church in Rockingham at 8.30 a.m.

SUNDAY 11TH SEPT: Concelebrates Mass At Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Church in Rockingham at 9.30 a.m.

MONDAY 12TH SEPT: 8.30 a.m. Gives a lecture on Social Justice at Notre Dame University in Fremantle.

TUESDAY 13TH SEPT: 12.00 – 2.00 p.m. Talk at Casa Piccarreta at 59, Newton St. Spearwood.

WEDNESDAY 14TH SEPT: A.M. - Meets His Grace Archbishop Barry J. Hickey, then visits The Record Office in Perth.

THURSDAY 15TH SEPT: – 11.00 a.m. – 2.00 p.m. – Visits “Shopfront” Outreach, 170 Whately Cresc., Maylands.

FRIDAY 16TH SEPT: 7.00 p.m. – 9.00 p.m. – Talks to Maltese Community at Maltese Club at 1, May Holman Drive, Bassendean.

FRIDAY 16th- SUNDAY 18th Staying with the Franciscan Community in Maylands.

MONDAY 19TH SEPT – Meets with the Holy Spirit of Freedom Community at Karriholm in Pemberton. Evening talk.

TUESDAY 20TH SEPT – Holy Hour at 8.00 a.m. Mass at 9.00 a.m. at Holy Spirit of Freedom, Karriholm in Pemberton. Leaves for Malta at 10.30 p.m.

Further information contact Carmen on (08) 9528 1442 or 0415 317 357 or Godfrey on 0420 688 390.

two similar private primary schools in Sydney where one received $13,000 per student and the other $8,000.

A spokesperson for Mr Garrett later told the paper that one of those schools was in receipt of additional, targetted funding.

Chris Watt, from the Independent Education Union, speculated in the report that the minister was referring either to a school that catered for autistic students or one with a largely indigenous student body.

Nominess sought for lay ministry council

THE BISHOPS Commission for Church Ministry is seeking nominations of suitably skilled and qualified people for the Australian Catholic Council for Lay Pastoral Ministry. This advisory body to the Bishops Commission for Church Ministry, supports, promotes and provides education and accreditation for lay people who see pastoral ministry as their vocation – whether paid or voluntary.

The Bishops Commission for Church Ministry will seek advice from this council to develop resources and projects that will support, assist and promote lay ministry.

Positions will be chosen on the basis of expertise and experience and will show a balance in terms of gender, lay and religious and geographical representation.

Membership of the ACCLPM includes one bishop from the Bishops Commission for Church Ministry, one priest and five lay pastoral ministers, one from each province. It is expected that members be able to attend quarterly meetings. Upon appointment, members of the ACCLPM should desirably be able to serve for at least three years with the possibility of being appointed for a second term.

Forward nominations by Wednesday 14 September 2011 to: the Secretariat for Church Ministry Fax: 0262476083 or email: director. opw@catholic.org.au or GPO Box 368, Canberra ACT 2601

One line of photo caption goes here. Please seek to avoid a flat description of pictured scene. PHOTO: ATTRIBUTION HERE

To migrate is not criminal

Continued from Page 1

“But we really need to approach these people from a different point of view - as human beings in need of help,” Fr Pettana said.

“People are asking for asylum because they are forced to leave their countries. We cannot bargain with human beings, rather we need to able to formulate migration policies that are ethically focused.”

The Edmund Rice Centre in Sydney said the High Court’s decision was likely to also render invalid the diversion of asylum seekers to Nauru or to Papua New Guinea, based on the opinion of barrister Stephen Estcourt QC, a former deputy president of the Commonwealth Appeals Tribunal who has taken several migration cases to the federal and high courts.

The St Vincent de Paul Society also welcomed the court’s decision as a “wonderful opportunity” to rethink Australia’s stance on asylum seekers and its international obligations, said the chief executive of the society’s national council, Dr John Falzon.

“We continue to say to the Australian government: no to offshore processing; no to mandatory detention,” he said.

“We now need to turn this into a new direction for the government; a direction based on dignity and respect for asylum seekers rather than demonisation and repression.”

Leederville landmark rededicated

BY ROBERT HIINI

IT IS the Eucharist that makes the church but a solid building is a great aid to the faithful, Archbishop Barry Hickey said at the reopening of St Mary’s Church in the innercity suburb of Leederville.

The archbishop rededicated the grand old church to God on Sunday 4 September in a special 10am mass that was standing room only.

He congratulated the parish for their patience for years of fundraising and waiting while their church was being restored. The parish closed for the work on 1 June.

St Mary’s was a landmark for the area with its “graceful spire” being “like a finger pointing to heaven”.

Parish council chairman Sullivan Kingsley said the work had been long in the making.

Former parish priest Fr Jim Petry (1992-2004) began restoration and successive priests continued the work as it became apparent that more work was needed than originally thought.

Heritage architect Michael Broderick, who passed away during the three-month renovation, discovered the true extent of the need.

“Michael discovered the back wall was falling out into the laneway; the beautiful stained glass windows were about to fall out; and there were massive holes in the roof,” Mr Sullivan said.

Addressing Mr Broderick’s family, he said he hoped the church and its renovation was “a fitting tribute to the tenacity and drive of Michael.”

Leederville’s relatively new parish priest, Fr Joseph Angelo, arrived at the parish when work was already underway, and was joined in celebrating mass by former parish priests, including Fr Petry.

Mr Sullivan said the project had done more than renovate and beautify a building.

“The other thing we’ve restored is the soul of our community because its been a communal effort and together we can go on and do even greater things.”

A consumer guarantee, for this life and the next

Continued from Page 1 -tions for on Sunday. Lifelong Catholics, the couple lost their youngest son at only 14 weeks, she said, and found little solace.

“The Church and the priest were doing their best but how do you say to a mother, ‘Oh, it’s God’s will’ and give a little pat on the head?” Mrs Barron asked.

“Through [the Way] I’ve come to learn that God didn’t cheat me, nor did he cheat my son and my son’s there, where he’s meant to be, now.”

Mrs Barron said the couple were motivated to evangelise by a desire to give out what they had received.

“Some people never walk into a church, they’ve been so offended,” she said. “This [catecheses] is a little bit of an intensive care that may eventually lead them to the mother Church again. Maybe they will enter a church, maybe they’ll never enter a church again. Who knows? But this is what Christ wants for everyone: to know the love of God.”

Michael Britten, the father of two young children, expressed similar sentiments in explaining his reasons for being involved with the Neocatechumenal Way.

“It’s brought me back to the Church. Otherwise I wouldn’t be interested. And it’s shown me that the Church has a richness that I never previously understood – a culture, a fabric of life.

“I’m alive or I’m dead and through the community I get life,” Mr Britten said.

Both Pope John Paul II and then Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger were early supporters of “the Way”.

“It is not a program or a method. It is not a group or a private association,” the late pontiff said.

“It is a way of conversion. An itinerary of Christian formation at the service of the parish. It touches and changes people’s lives.”

In spite of high-level support and enthusiastic adoption in some dioceses, or perhaps because of this, the Neocatechumenal Way is regarded by some as controversial.

Most recently, in December last

year, Pope Benedict XVI acted to stem tensions in Japan between the Way and diocesan authorities, meeting with four high-ranking bishops after years of dispute.

But in 2006 the Way was invited by the Moscow Orthodox Patriarchate, the largest Orthodox church in the world, to provide personnel to teach Russian Orthodox clergy how to evangelise. Neocatechumenal priest Fr Nicola Falzun OP said there was no evidence of division locally.

The spiritual director of the Redemptoris Mater archdiocesan missionary seminary in Morley said the liturgies the Way advertised in parishes throughout Perth were open to everyone.

“We aim for unity and harmony with the local church,” he said.

He said the feedback he received from his fellow Neocatechumenal members handing out flyers last Sunday was positive.

“We met a lot of people. Everyone said it was very good. People were welcoming of the fact that we were there.”

Catecheses provide introduction to the Neocatechumenal Way

BY PETER ROSENGREN

ANYONE searching for God in their lives or who has sensed that relying only on themselves in life neither satisfies nor offers meaning is invited to a series of talks in Perth over the next eight weeks.

The three separate series of catecheses (lessons in Christianity) for adults and teenagers in Perth, with another in Bunbury, will also introduce the Neocatechumenal Way.

The twice-weekly catecheses will be on Monday and Thursday evenings at 7.30pm in: St Mary’s Cathedral Faith Centre, 450 Hay Street in Perth; St Brigid’s Hall, 69 Fitzgerald Street in Northbridge; and St Mary Star of the Sea hall on the corner of Stirling Highway and McNeil St, Peppermint Grove.

Those in Bunbury can attend

talks on Mondays and Fridays, 7.30pm in the cathedral centre.

Often referred to simply as ‘the Way’ by those involved in it, the Neocatechumenal Way began in the slums of Madrid in the early 1960s after the Second Vatican Council. It is one of the rare bodies mandated to be led not by clergy but by laymen and women.

The Way focuses on helping baptised Christians to experience and live an adult faith and its spread around the global Church in the decades since its founding has seen tens of thousands of small communities established within parishes.

In Perth there are approximately 16 communities in parishes; the Redemptoris Mater archdiocesan seminary in Morley is also run under the auspices of the Way.

The majority of its students come

from Neocatechumenal communities throughout the world.

Communities celebrate a distinctive form of the liturgy and meet weekly to listen to the Word of God in Scripture and to reflect on its relevance to their lives. A distinctive Spanish-influenced music plays an important role in the life of communities and emphasises singing of the psalms and scripture.

As the Church has faced a growing climate of indifference to Christianity in recent decades, especially in affluent societies such as Australia, the phenomenon of the new movements has been regarded with approval by popes and Church leaders. As traditional Church populations appear to be receding in many places, it is the new movements that appear confident and growing.

An invitation in hand to the catecheses of the Neocatechumenal Way, left, and Barbara Barron talks to a shopper, right.

PHOTOS: T WALLACE & R HIINI

Archbishop Barry Hickey blesses the congregation at the rededication of St Mary’s Church in Leederville.

PHOTO: ATTRIBUTION HERE

Brother a teacher and a poet

‘It’s been a good life. I made the right choice. I think the best advice I ever had was from a non-Catholic who said I should try one of the teaching orders.’

These were Marist Brother Kenneth Eaton’s own words as he reminisced, looking back many years, with Br Gerard Williams in Lismore, NSW, in the year 2000.

“All those books!” a visitor exclaimed on visiting Ken at the family home in country WA in his pre-Marist days. Ken’s mother was a teacher and even before he arrived at school he had displayed extraordinary academic ability. Later on he was to hold qualifications from several educational institutions in four different Australian states. He was a real academic, but first and foremost a person of God.

Born in WA, the eldest of 12 children, seven of whom are still alive, Ken grew up on a sheep farm about 160km north-east of Perth; he first went to school at a one-teacher government school at Ucarty Road, a school opened by his own mother. He then went to St Brigid’s Convent School, Perth. Winning a government scholarship and the Lord Abbott’s scholarship, he boarded for five years at St Ildephonsus’ College, New Norcia. The scholarship allowance even allowed him to learn music.

During his time at college he won two prestigious medals for French, and was crowned Dux in his final year. Again in his memoirs, Ken wrote that at New Norcia he had the luxury of daily Mass and holy Communion, a privilege that he treasured for the rest of his life.

Then Ken won a bursary to the university in Perth and obtained an Arts degree, with distinction results not uncommon throughout. Whilst at University he was an active member of the Newman Society and the Chesterton Club, involvements that foreshadowed the future of his ministry. This was all before he made the decision to become a Marist brother.

This necessitated a sea journey from Fremantle to Sydney at the start of 1937 and then a train trip from Mittagong where eventually he had his first sighting of snow. At the Juniorate in 1937 he settled

Obituary

Br Kenneth Eaton FMS

Born 9 April 1916

Goomalling, WA

Born to eternal life 12 July

down to complete the NSW final year of schooling, surviving the cold Mittagong climate. It appears the whole enterprise suited him so well that he graduated in 1939 by professing his first vows as a religious brother on 2 July, ready for his first teaching appointment at Kogarah in Sydney a day later; the start of 50

He did not waver in the face of the cynicism, scepticism, and anti-structure protests of that era.

years in the classroom.

It was during those early days of brotherhood that Ken spent an eventful three months at Ashgrove, in 1940, assisting the first brothers’ community by teaching various classes and forming the very first school choir. This was at the start of his teacher training year, also to be spent in cold Mittagong. After that year, the quiet, shy, retiring and devoted brother set

Milestones

moments past, passing and to come

out determinedly on his life’s missionary journey. After one year at Randwick in Sydney and four years at Bendigo in Victoria, Ken spent 10 years educating future priests at the seminary at Springwood NSW. At 39, he attended his second novitiate in Europe. Upon his return it was to Rosalie for the best part of 1956, and then for four years to Bougainville, PNG where he was involved in teacher training of future local teachers. Ken had volunteered some years earlier to work in the mission fields and his intelligence, literary flair and hard work allowed him to master the local language.

In Bougainville Ken devised a correspondence course which allowed priests and religious to acquire a special teaching qualification recognised by the government. Ken’s later studies for his Master of Education degree through the University of New England was based on his PNG experience. At the start of 1961 Ken was back in Australia. A teaching appointment to Maitland followed for six years. It was there Ken was approached by Bishop John Toohey to become the min-

utes secretary of the first diocesan Education Commission. These were changing times in Catholic education and Ken was in the midst of it. As minutes secretary, Br Ken proved immediately to be the exacting and faithful recorder of ideas, the educator with visionary ideas for planning the future, and

For Ken, God was revealed in beauty, whether the beauty of creation, music or of another person.

a good friend charged with education ministry. He was involved in so much within the diocese, apart from his own teaching duties at Marist Brothers’ High School. This aspect of his life really blossomed during his time at Lismore, ariving in 1967, where he was to spend the next 34 long years. Ken was to achieve many things of real substance.

Bishop John Satterthwaite of

the Lismore diocese invited Ken to assist in the reorganisation of the diocesan education system based on the research for his Master’s. The Bishop accepted, in full, Ken’s field study university project entitled Suggestions for the Reorganisation of a Diocesan Education System

Later on, after the formation of Trinity Catholic College, the Bishop appointed Ken to the steering committee of the first diocesan pastoral council. Ken remained in that role until 1994. Only two years before that, he had retired from teaching a few months before he was 75.

From that time onwards, Ken was totally immersed in the life of the Legion of Mary, acting as their Spiritual Director. He returned to his old job as community bursar and taught Italian at the University of the Third Age.

Ken came to Ashgrove at the start of 2001 at the age of 85. Long before the revolutionary years of the 1960s, Ken made a conscious decision to live a life of structure, order, meaning, and faith. He did not waiver in the face of cynicism, scepticism, anti-order and antistructure protests of that period of change in Church and society. He believed implicitly and explicitly in the legitimacy of traditional institutions – Church, government, business and family.

A quiet, but powerful part of Ken’s life was his poetry. For him, God was revealed in beauty, whether the beauty of creation (a wattle in blossom, a pied butcher bird’s song), classical music or another person.

He wrote of ‘the gold the wattle wears’ spreading ‘more fragrance on the air than the gold on scented garments of a king’. This seems to be a Christological moment where the gold the wattle wears becomes, for Ken, the true sovereign Christ.

His last days on this earth were indeed peaceful. He died as peacefully as he had lived his entire life, trusting in the God who was always close to him.

Ken, we salute you and your journey. We pray that you have found the treasure of lasting worth, and we thank you for your time with us. We look forward to meeting you again when it is our turn to pass on.

This is an edited version of the eulogy delivered by Br Roger Burke at the Marist College Ashgrove Chapel on 19 July.

Maida Vale couples mark 523 years of marriage

TWELVE couples renewed their wedding vows as part of a celebration of significant wedding anniversaries for 2011 in St Francis of Assisi parish in Maida Vale on Sunday, 28 August.

The renewals were part of an initiative launched by the parish this year which it calls ‘Marriage Matters @ St Francis’. The couples presented themselves at the 9.30am Mass for a “Renewal of Vows” ceremony conducted by parish priest Fr Elver Delicano, assisted by Deacon Trevor Lyra.

As the ceremony was conducted, original wedding photos were shown on the overhead projector.

Between them, the couples had more than half a millennium of marriage: 523 years to be precise.

Three couples have been married for more than 50 years, two

were celebrating their 50th year of marriage, one couple was celebrating 45 years, four couples were celebrating 40 years, one couple were celebrating 34 years and one 25 years. It was a significant occasion for the parish to be able to acknowledge the longevity of the marriages and to affirm the importance of marriage in general. On behalf of the parish, Fr Delicano congratulated the couples for sharing their witness to marriage and God.

“Marriage Matters @ St Francis” aims to promote strong, healthy marriages throughout the year by arranging blessings of couples celebrating an anniversary on the first Sunday of each month and through events to strengthen marriages in the parish.

Married 523 years: left to right, Lindsay and Helen Gregory (40 years), Gilbert and Yvette Savy (50 years), Neville and Maureen Ward (53 years), Bob and Maureen Ranford (50 years).

Brian and Marie Wright (54 years), Bob and Angelina Pellicciotti (52 years), Victor and Robyn Murray (40 years), Owen and Judith McGrath (45 years), Tevor and Judy Maughan (40 years), Tony and Carmella Ridolfo (40 years), Trevor and Liz D’Leno (34 years) and Noel and Delores Carter (25 years) were unable to attend. PHOTO: ST

FRANCIS PARISH

Front row: left to right,

Br Kenneth Eaton, rear at right, was a natural student and teacher. A highlight of his career was meeting Pope John Paul II, below. PHOTO: MARIST BROTHERS

Rome answers Cloyne report

BY CINDY WOODEN

VATICAN CITY - The Vatican has forcefully denied undermining Irish bishops’ efforts to protect children from sexual abuse and characterised as “unfounded” claims it tried to interfere in government investigations regarding Church handling of sex abuse cases in Ireland.

The Vatican recognised “the seriousness of the crimes” detailed in a government report about cases in Cloyne, in Ireland’s south, and “has sought to respond comprehensively,” it said in a communique which accompanied a formal response to the Cloyne Report, statements made by Irish Prime Minister Kenny and

motions passed by both houses of the Irish Parliament concerning the report and the Vatican’s involvement in how cases were handled.

The report said then-Bishop John Magee of Cloyne paid “little or no attention” to safeguarding children as recently as 2008. The report also accused the Vatican of being “entirely unhelpful” to Irish bishops who wanted to implement stronger norms for dealing with accusations and protecting children.

The Vatican took the unusual step of recalling its nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Giuseppe Leanza, saying it signalled how seriously it took the criticisms and a response was drafted by the Vatican

whose spokesman, Fr Federico Lombardi, said the point of departure was “the recognition of the reality of what occurred, the gravity and amount of abuse committed” and the “deplorable” lack of serious action on the part of the bishop and diocesan officials: “The seriousness and importance of these failures is not overlooked.”

The Vatican’s response emphasised three points.

First, the Congregation for Clergy’s observations about potential problems in the Irish bishops’ 1996 child protection guidelines did not nullify the guidelines or prevent local bishops from adopting them in their dioceses.

Second, Church officials were required to follow their nation’s civil laws regarding mandatory reporting of crimes and were free to report crimes to police even when not required by law to do so.

Third, the sexual abuse of children was a crime both in civil law and in Church law.

The Vatican said it “understands and shares the depth of public anger and frustration at the findings of the Cloyne Report,” saying those feelings were reflected in Kenny’s speech, although it did take issue with some points he made.

“In this regard, the Holy See wishes to make it quite clear that it in no way hampered or interfered in

Church blesses the beer, and those who brewed it

Church enters fray in Malawi’s strife

BY BRONWEN DACHS

CAPE TOWN - Faith groups in Malawi are calling for international support as they seek major reforms a Catholic Church official said. “Malawians are desperate for a government that responds to their concerns,” said Chris Chisoni, national secretary of the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace.

Nineteen people died in Malawi in clashes with police during 20-21 July protests against government

policies and a shortage of fuel and foreign currency. The Public Affairs Committee, which includes Catholic bishops, Protestant and Muslim representatives, has called for a “proper investigation with the support” of the Southern African Development Community and the United Nations into the clashes and their causes, Chisoni said. The United States and Britain have cut aid to Malawi, which depends on donors for as much as 40 per cent of its

budget, because of disagreements with President Bingu wa Mutharika and police response to protests.

“Urgent steps must be taken to ensure that solutions are found to the crisis,” Chisoni said, noting that “human rights reforms and transparent governance” are needed “to ensure that diplomatic and bilateral relationships are restored.” Malawi’s opposition parties are “too caught up in infighting to be an effectively organised opposition, and so it is left to civil society and the Church

to look out for the interests of ordinary citizens,” he said. Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza of Mzuzu invoked the president’s ire when he told Mutharika that he should stop gagging Malawi’s civil society, media and faith community, noting that they have a role to play in safeguarding the rule of law. Mutharika said he would “deal with organisations leading people to protest against my leadership,” adding that his “patience is wearing thin, let us fight”. CNS

the inquiry into child sexual abuse cases in the Diocese of Cloyne. At no stage did it seek to interfere with Irish civil law or impede civil authority” the response said.

In fact, it said, the Cloyne Report contains “no evidence to suggest that the Holy See meddled in the internal affairs of the Irish state or, for that matter, was involved in the day-to-day management of Irish dioceses or religious congregations with respect to sexual abuse issues.”

“The basic difficulty with regard to child protection” in Cloyne, it said, stemmed “from the fact that, while the diocese claimed to follow the guidelines, in reality it did not.” CNS

US dioceses condemn health law’s intolerance

BY LIZ O’CONNOR

LEVITTOWN, Pa - A new US federal regulation requiring employer insurance plans to provide contraceptives some consider abortifacient and voluntary sterilisation among cost-free preventive care measures such as inoculations and Pap smears, is being greeted with dismay in Catholic dioceses.

The regulation provides a narrow religious exemption for an employer that “(1) has the inculcation of religious values as its purpose; (2) primarily employs persons who share its religious tenets; (3) primarily serves persons who share its religious tenets; and (4) is a nonprofit organisation” under specific sections of the Internal Revenue Code. This definition is “a direct infringement on our ability to do ministry,” said George Wesolek, communications director for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. “It’s part of a larger issue,” he said. “The room for religious liberty is getting narrower and narrower”.

The regulation is part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and Wesolek said it “could have been avoided by a unified effort by the Catholic Church when the health care bill was being considered.” James Sweeney was among Californians who unsuccessfully fought a similar state law through the courts and tried to take it to the US Supreme Court, which declined to hear the case. He called the exemption “a complete sham” because it omits the reality of the Church at work in the world. He said “there was a time when government attempted to protect religious exercise” but this regulation is instead “tolerating (religion) in the least significant ways possible.”

The US Conference of Catholic Bishops is preparing to submit a formal comment on the proposed religious exemption. CNS

Mafia shots tied to local feast fail to deter outspoken Calabrian priest

VATICAN CITY - A southern Italian priest who is outspoken against the Mafia said gunshots fired at his car were likely meant to show him and the public that members of organised crime are still in charge of the area.

“I think it was just a serious warning,” Father Giuseppe Campisano, pastor of St Rocco Parish in Gioiosa Ionica, told Vatican Radio.

The shots were fired, “not in the

middle of the night, but at a time when there were still a lot of people around, so I think they wanted to be heard.” News reports said three or four shots were fired at the car, which was parked outside the rectory. Fr Campisano was not in the car at the time. For years, the priest has received threatening phone calls and letters mailed with bullets because of his commitment to fighting the ‘Ndrangheta,

the organised crime ring of Italy’s Calabria region. Fr Campisano said he thinks the shots were “tied to the feast of St Rocco, most likely because of the position both I and the bishop took in trying to straighten out the celebration a bit and give it a religious sense because it’s always been marked by the most absolute paganism.” The celebration, he said, is “linked to a form of power and

control precisely because of the river of money” it brings in with an enormous fair and dozens of stalls selling all sorts of food and trinkets. Members of the ‘Ndrangheta “systematically go to all the stalls for extortion,” the priest said.

During the city’s celebration of the feast this year, he said, the Church sponsored four evenings of presentations and reflections on the importance of the rule of law. He

said the town is made up of a large “gray zone” where people put up with organised crime and a criminal mentality, and a small “black zone” where the real criminals live and operate openly. Some parishioners, he said, “are beginning to understand the Gospel message and, sharing it, they are close to me and work with me.

“I count on a ‘small remnant,’ to use biblical language.” CNS

A priest blesses a barrel of beer watched by Knights of the Brewers’ Mash staff at the cathedral in Brussels on 2 September. PHOTO: CNS/FRANCOIS LENOIR, REUTERS

Indian Christians mark anniversary of violence

BHUBNESHWAR- On the third anniversary of the outbreak of massive anti-Christian violence in India’s Orissa state, a local Catholic archbishop has appealed for “peace and tranquility” and the defence of Christians’ rights.

“We Christians want to live in peace in our land. Despite the suffering and tragedy of 2008, we harbour no hatred or revenge. We will remember the victims of the past, we will entrust to God the present and the future of Orissa,” Archbishop John Barwa said.

“Over the past three years, a lot has happened towards reconstruc-

tion and dialogue,” he said. “But there are people who are still afraid. There is some progress towards peace and justice but there is still a lot more to be done.” He tells the faithful to remember two phrases of Jesus: “do not be afraid” and “love your enemies.”

The situation appeared uncertain, with police guarding main churches across the district and reports circulating of an upcoming rally by Hindu extremists. More than 100 people died and 25,000 to 50,000 people fled for their lives in August and September 2008 when over 170 churches and chapels were

attacked. The incidents, among the worst anti-Christian violence in modern times, were sparked by the 2008 killing of political activist Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati. There was also an outbreak of violence during Christmas 2007 which caused 3,000 to leave their homes.

Archbishop Barwa said things seem calm, but a number of local groups continue to create problems by interfering with construction of Christian homes and churches by blocking building supplies. There are also “subtle forms of oppression and discrimination”.

“We have got justice for what

happened in Kandhamal but we are a little discouraged. Lower-ranking officials disturb us but the higherranking ones are trying their best,” the archbishop said. “Although good words are spoken about the need for justice, they are not always manifested in terms of action.”

Most of those displaced by the violence in 2007 and 2008 have now returned to the district, thanks in large part to the construction of more than 3,700 homes. Over 4,000 homes will have been built by the end of the year. “My message is clear: we need peace and tranquility – no more violence, no killing.

Pope calls for end of terrorism

By Carol Glatz

VATICAN CITY - In the wake of a deadly suicide bomb attack on UN offices in Nigeria, Pope Benedict XVI made an urgent appeal for terrorists to renounce violence, choose dialogue and have respect for human life.

In two identically worded telegrams, one to UN SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-Moon and one to Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, the Pope appealed “to those who choose death and violence to embrace, instead, life and respectful dialogue.”

The Pope “was distressed to learn of the terrorist attack upon UN offices in Abuja and of the terrible loss of life among both local citizens and UN personnel,” the telegrams said.

An attacker drove a car laden with explosives through security gates and into the UN complex, leaving at least 23 people dead and 81 others wounded.

The Pope said his prayers were with all who were killed in the attack and asked that mourners and the injured be blessed with “courage and strength.”

A radical Islamic sect from northern Nigeria, Boko Haram, claimed responsibility and said it wanted to see Shariah, or Islamic law, applied more widely in Nigeria.

The Nigerian government has been fighting the terrorist group, which has carried out a number of assassinations and bombings, against both Muslim and Christian places of worship.

Archbishop John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan of Abuja told the Fides news agency that the latest attack had caused “deep concern.”

“We do not know what these people intend to do, and I ask myself which forces are behind these events.

We also expect an appropriate response from the government to stop this violence,” the archbishop told Fides, which is the news agency of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples.

Nigerian cardinal questions president’s approach to instability

By Peter ajayi DaDa

LAGOS - Nigeria’s Cardinal Anthony Olubunmi Okogie urged President Goodluck Jonathan to use all the security and intelligence networks at his disposal to unmask the sponsors of the Boko Haram sect and deal with them decisively. Cardinal Okogie’s recommendation followed the late-August bombing of the United Nations building in Abuja in which at least 23 people died. The extremist Islamic sect, which has a somewhat undefined leadership and structure, also bombed various public buildings

in the northern Nigerian towns of Maiduguri, Kano, Kaduna and Jos as well as the Nigerian Police Force national headquarters, where several hundred people were killed.

The group says it is fighting against Western culture and education which it claims negates its beliefs.

Cardinal Okogie said he wondered why President Jonathan seemed to treat the Boko Haram issue with kid gloves despite the monumental loss of lives and property it had unleashed on the Nigerian people over time.

The president “must summon the political will to address the

growing state of insecurity in the land before it becomes too late,” the Cardinal said.

“Nigerians are tired of tolerating this unwarranted state of terrorism in the land,” he said.

“So many innocent lives have been lost and what have our security agents got to show for it?

“The time has come for President Jonathan to show that he is in charge.

“It is obvious that some people are out to make the country ungovernable for him,” said Cardinal Okogie

“He must identify them and make them face the music.’’ CNS

Philly restoration a positive change

By Chaz Muth

PHILADELPHIA - When Nancy Frankowski walks to church, she is confronted with scaffolding covering much of her beloved Cathedral Basilica of Sts Peter and Paul as workers refresh the exterior of the 147-year-old structure.

While it’s a temporary eyesore, she is looking forward to seeing it restored to its original grandeur. She is also looking for a renovation of sorts for the archdiocese with Archbishop Charles Chaput, formerly of Denver, who succeeds retiring Cardinal Justin Rigali this

month. A fresh face at the helm may provide the spiritual lift that is needed in an archdiocese that has been rocked by a child-abuse scandal and indictments, Ms Frankowski said following a midday Mass. “I think it will be good for Philadelphia.”

A change in leadership could provide a psychological boost to every diocese and archdiocese, said Father Dennis Gill, director of the Office for Divine Worship.

Archbishop Chaput’s appointment comes as the archdiocese is still reeling from a scathing grand jury report released in February. It

accused the Philadelphia archdiocese of failing to stop priests sexually abusing children even after a previous report had called attention to problems. It said more than three dozen priests with allegations of sexual abuse were still in positions where they could contact children.

At the grand jury’s recommendation, two priests, a layman and a former priest were charged with criminal counts related to abuse of juveniles.

Another priest was charged with endangering child welfare for his role in assigning the accused priests. In response, the archdiocese

The Christian faithful have the right to be in Kandhamal. They are growing in faith,” said Archbishop Barwa who succeeded Archbishop Rapahel Cheenath in February. He thanked Aid to the Church in Need for its help in rebuilding churches damaged or destroyed by anti-Christian violence. “We are all very grateful to those many people who have supported us with their help and their prayers,” he said. Most of the major parish churches in Kandhamal have been repaired or rebuilt, but many of the smaller village churches and chapels have not. CNA

Economic woes affect vocations in Uganda

KAMPALA - Rampant inflation and other severe economic troubles are threatening to close seminaries in Uganda despite the growing number of priestly vocations.

Monsignor Cosmas Alule, rector of Alokolum Major Seminary, said increasing fuel prices have driven up the cost of food with staple commodities quadrupling in price over the last year. Since August 2010, the rate of inflation has risen from 1.7 to approximately 19 percent.

“We can hardly meet the costs of our basic needs despite the fact that we grow rice, beans, maize and vegetables in order to reduce food costs,” he told Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need.

Mgr Alule said causes of the economic crisis can be traced not only to widespread drought but the costly parliamentary election campaign last February.

“The government spent money irresponsibly for political purposes instead of looking after the wellbeing of the people,” he said. Alokolum Seminary is based in an area that has endured over 20 years of civil war between the government and the Lord’s Resistance Army. Although the seminary is suffering from a severe shortage of space, it has had to stop all building because materials have become increasingly expensive.

However, with 209 students expected this year – 26 more than last year –building has become necessary. Mgr Alule said the economic situation is affecting other seminaries in the east African country as well. He also added despite over 1,000 young men preparing for the priesthood in the country’s five seminaries last year alone, there is still a shortage of priests in many parts of the country.

Forty five percent of Uganda’s population of 33 million, he explained, is Catholic. CNA

has taken actions that include hiring a former sex crimes prosecutor to review personnel files of the 37 priests named in the grand jury’s report. Cardinal Rigali also placed more than two dozen on administrative leave while allegations are reviewed. “It has been a very difficult period, that’s true,” Fr Gill said. “There’s been a lot of pain in so many different ways during this period.”

A new bishop will not solve all of the problems facing a diocese or archdiocese, but offers rejuvenation of energy that excites the base, Fr Gill said. CNS

Mourners farewell a victim of the bombing of UN offices in Nigeria.

PHOTO: CNS/AFOLABI SOTUNDE, REUTERS

Gold

CANADA

Knocking but door won’t open at WYD

A manager with a travel company that took Canadian pilgrims to Madrid wanted to know why gates were closed so early at Cuatro Vientos airbase on the eve of the papal vigil at World Youth Day so he posed a question on the official WYD Facebook page. “Why were the gates closed so early? A lot of people were locked out.” He waited for a response but, hearing nothing, checked and found his comment erased. As pilgrims return, discontent continues that up to 250,000 pilgrims were locked out. About 1.4 million pilgrims showed up for the vigil and organisers, equipped to handle only about a million, turned away registered pilgrims.

JAPAN

Colloquial Japanese Bible a first

After 55 years of work, the Japanese will soon have a colloquial Bible translation thanks to the Studium Biblicum Franciscanum of Tokyo. The text was presented to the prefect of the Vatican Library at the Cathedral of Tokyo. It is the first time a Japanese translation has been taken from the original languages of the Bible instead of the Vulgate. In 1958 the translation of the Book of Genesis was published, and in 1979 the entire New Testament was completed. In 2002 the Book of Jeremiah was finished. The Japanese Biblical Society and American Franciscans collaborated in the effort.

KENYA

Death sentences for priest’s murder

Three men have been sentenced to death for the 2009 murder of an Irish priest working in Kenya as a member of the St Patrick’s Missionary Society. Nine suspects had been accused in the death of 68-yearold Fr Gerry Roche. On 23 August three were found guilty of murder and sentenced to death by a court in Kericho. Two others were found guilty of handling stolen property. The other four were acquitted.

INDIA

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and a savings account

A parish in Kerala has instituted incentives to encourage families to have more children amid worries Catholic population has begun to drop. St Vincent De Paul Forane Church offers fixed-rate deposits of 10,000 rupees held in the name of the fifth child born. Fr Jose Kocharackal said the church had issued deposits to two families. Salu Mecheril, regional coordinator of Sion, said the campaign is gaining popularity with a second parish preparing to adopt the same plan.

VATICAN CITY

Challenge of unity for Catholic and Orthodox

Catholics and Orthodox face the same challenges in strengthening Christian life and an important part of that effort is working together with love and respect, Pope Benedict XVI has said. He said they need to recognise what Pope Paul VI wrote in 1975: “As evangelisers, we must offer Christ’s faithful not the image of people divided and separated by unedifying quarrels, but the image of people who are mature in faith and capable of finding a meetingpoint beyond the real tensions .... the destiny of evangelisation is certainly bound up with the witness of unity given by the church.” CNS

Hopes Libya won’t be worse

TRIPOLI - Early evidence suggests that the Catholic Church in Libya may fare no worse under a new rebel-led regime than it did under the dictatorship of Colonel Moammar Gadhafi. “The future is very uncertain but signs from parts of the country that have been under rebel control since March is that Catholic priests and nuns are still being allowed to go about their business as usual. So we hope that’s a good sign for the future,” a senior Church source, told CNA. The comments come as NATO-backed Libyan rebels tighten their hold over Tripoli and push

on toward Gadhafi’s hometown of Sirte, still under loyalist control. The present whereabouts of Colonel Gadhafi are still unknown.

Although he is a Muslim, Gadhafi’s 42 year dictatorship saw the Church largely unhindered in its work in parishes and hospitals. In contrast, fears have recently been voiced that significant elements in the rebel forces may have an Islamist agenda. In recent days, there has also been concern for the safety of a Franciscan community in Tripoli’s sole Catholic Church.

“I’ve actually just spoken to the Franciscan priests who are

in Tripoli,” said the CNA source. “They say their situation is not easy but they are well. It’s difficult for them to go out into the streets because of the fighting. There are still many people with guns and much bombing.” The source said there are only three Franciscans in Tripoli at present because another three are trying to enter Libya from Tunisia, but the broken transportation system and blocked roads have made it impossible. One of the clergymen is a priest who had travelled to World Youth Day in Madrid.

The estimated Catholic popula-

tion of Libya is 100,000, most of whom are immigrants, but that number may have declined since the outbreak of trouble in February.

In total, there are around 25 Catholic priests working in the country, mainly based in Tripoli in the west and Benghazi in the east. There are also around 60 nuns who work in the hospital system. The source says that although Catholics only make up a small percentage of the six million population, the work of the Catholic priests and nuns is greatly appreciated by ordinary Libyans who are overwhelmingly Muslim. CNA

Prayer for street kids from the well-heeled

Public signs part of Argentina’s culture

BUENOS AIRES - Bishop Antonio Marino of Mar de Plata, Argentina recently criticised a proposed law that would remove religious symbols from public spaces. He said such a measure would mean ignoring the historical and cultural identity of the country. In a column published in daily La Capital, Bishop Marino criticised the sponsor of the bill, Maria Jose Lubertino, for invoking a supposed “right to not believe”.

“To take seriously the proposal to eradicate religious symbols from

civil institutions and public spaces would have far-reaching consequences,” the bishop said.

“The consistent and systematic application of this principle which a minority is pushing for would seem to entail that in organising a society one can ignore its past and its historical and cultural identity.  This would be the equivalent of attempting to re-build our country upon foundations that differ from the ones already in place.”

“We would have to change the preamble of the National

Constitution in which we invoke God as ‘the source of all reason and justice.’  We would also have to eliminate article 2 which establishes the Catholic Church as an institution of public right,” he added.

“According to the same logic that sees in religious symbols a threat to democracy and freedom, we should also change names of innumerable cities, provinces and streets of a Christian and Catholic origin,” Bishop Marino said. He noted the Spanish language is filled with words and expressions

that come from Christian tradition and the Bible and therefore to adopt such a law would lead to “the denial of the history and culture of the West itself”.

Christianity was the spiritual force that led to a proper distinction between spiritual and temporal power, he said, and State secularity properly understood had its origins in the Christian faith.

Secularism was something different, he noted, as it sought to relegate God from public life to the realm of conscience and to the sacristy.

Peruvian university resisting Church involvement

LIMA - Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani has called for a peaceful end to the ongoing conflict between his archdiocese and the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru that could cost the school its Catholic status.

“There are no winners or losers. We need to set aside our arrogance and pride,” the cardinal said during his regular radio programme Dialogue of Faith. “We need to build bridges. We need to seek out the good. The country is seeking peace, the country is seeking development

for everyone, a united family close to God.”

Cardinal Cipriani’s comments were in reference to the conflict that resulted from a decision by the Pontifical University in 2007 to deny the Archdiocese of Lima the right to have a seat on its board of directors.  The decision went against the wishes expressed in the will of the late Jose de la Riva Aguero, the Catholic intellectual who donated the land on which the university is built.

In 2010, Peru’s Constitutional Court ruled the archdiocese had the right to be on the board, but until now the university has not followed the ruling.

The latest act of defiance by the university came when it refused to follow a Vatican order to modify its statutes so they agree with Ex Corde Ecclesiae, Pope John Paul II’s document on Catholic universities. The Vatican said the changes must be made if the university wants to maintain its status as a

Pontifical and Catholic institution. Additionally, university officials were told they must recognise the right of the Archbishop of Lima to select the school’s rector from among three candidates proposed by the University Assembly. Amidst the ongoing conflict, Cardinal Cipriani reiterated his call for dialogue. “Let us lift the veil from our eyes, the pride from our minds, let us take the road of peace and understanding, but let the truth always prevail,” he said. CNA

Miss Panama 2011, Sheldry Saez, prays at Mercy Alliance, a nonprofit Catholic street children organisation on the outskirts of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

PHOTO: CNS

LONG RANGE

MISSAL

The revised Roman Missal binds Catholics across a 2,000-year history, writes Dennis Sadowski

WHEN the third edition of the English language version of the Roman Missal is implemented at Advent, it will mark the continuing evolution of the eucharistic liturgy that began in the earliest days of the Church.

The most recent changes - which more closely reflect Liturgiam Authenticam (The Authentic Liturgy), the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments’ 2001 document on liturgical translations - are unlikely to be the last, liturgists agree.

From Aramaic to Greek to Latin to vernacular language after the Second Vatican Council, the Mass has evolved over 2,000 years in an effort to help worshippers appreciate the mystery that is God.

“It’s not the changing that’s abnormal. It’s not changing that’s abnormal,” said Jesuit Father John Baldovin, professor of historical and liturgical theology, who explores the history of the missal and the new English translation in a video series on the National Jesuit News website.

The translation that began being implemented in English-speaking countries in 2010 has been openly criticised by some clergy and liturgy experts for its structurally complicated language that they believe strays from the intent of Vatican II’s liturgical reforms.

But other liturgists responsible for catechesis on the missal are reminding the faithful that the translation helps bind modern-day Catholics with early Christians through its more authentic language.

“People may find it interesting that this has developed over centuries. It isn’t something dropped out

Vivid

Bof the sky at Vatican II, but it has a history,” said Christina Ronzio, director of the Office for Worship.

“What it does is establishes continuity of that tradition of the

Church,” she said. The Missal of Pius V appeared seven years after the Council of Trent concluded its work in 1563, implementing the council’s call for uniformity

in liturgical books. Convened in response to Protestant disputes with the Church, the council met in 25 sessions beginning in 1545. By its conclusion it codified the celebration of Mass and defined Church teaching on Scripture and tradition, original sin, justification, the sacraments and the veneration of saints.

The council allowed religious orders that had their own liturgical rites in place for more than 200 years, among them Dominicans and Franciscans, to continue using their own missal. Those missals continue in use today with updated translations approved by the Vatican.

In part, credit development of the printing press for the missal’s introduction in the 16th century, said Fr Richard Hilgartner, executive director of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat on Divine Worship.

Until the late 16th century, holy books were reproduced by hand by monks, making widespread distribution of sacred texts impractical.

But long before the first missal was promulgated, a desire for consistency in worship began to emerge. Some Mass prayers can be traced to the 3rd century, said Rita Thiron, director of the Office of Worship in Lansing, citing the second eucharistic prayer, dating to about 215.

In a series called Welcoming the New Roman Missal on the Lansing diocesan website, Thiron wrote that by the 4th century worship became more formalised because of a growing concern for orthodoxy which led to standardisation of prayers and readings in various rituals.

By the 7th and 8th centuries sharing of prayer texts became more common, Fr Hilgartner said.

Sacramentaries also were assembled, the most notable being the Old Gelasian in the 7th and 8th centuries and the Gregorian in the late 8th century.

In 785, Pope Hadrian I gave a copy of the Gregorian Sacramentary to Charlemagne, King of the

language of Church history in new Missal: Pope

IT by bit, the third edition of the Roman Missal is being introduced in parishes throughout the Englishspeaking world.

From Canada to southern Africa to New Zealand, Catholics have seen parts of the new missal introduced at various times, most since January, but some earlier, so that by the first Sunday of Advent on 27 November, the transition to a new set of prayers and liturgical music will be as seamless as possible for the faithful.

As the implementation moves forward, liturgists charged with overseeing the missal’s introduction told Catholic News Service that their efforts have eased concerns that the translation was a step back from the Second Vatican Council’s vision for liturgy.

“The bishops here took the

view that there should be an incremental approach to implementation,” explained Father Peter Wiliams, executive secretary of the Bishops Commission for Liturgy in Australia. The process began with introduction of new musical settings in January followed by the spoken parts of the Mass at Pentecost in June, he said. The Eucharistic prayers and other parts of the missal will be introduced 1 November so that by Advent the transition will be completed.

The introduction of the English translation of the missal is occurring in countries represented by the 11 bishops’ conference members of the International Commission on English in the Liturgy.

The most recent translation of the Roman Missal is the third since Vatican II’s call for the “full, conscious and active participation” of all Catholics in the liturgy. In

introducing the third Latin translation in 2002, Pope John Paul II said it more closely matched the vivid language used throughout Church history.

Disagreements emerged among US bishops as the final translation was reviewed before it was sent to Rome for approval. Some bishops deemed it elitist or remote from everyday speech. Despite concerns, American bishops overwhelmingly approved the translation.

In Ireland, the Association of Catholic Priests, which represents about 10 percent of the country’s clergy, continued to object to the translation into 201 and charged that the translation was “too complex and too cumbersome” and included sexist language. It also questioned its “theological veracity” and described the translation process as flawed. Such challenges have not delayed implementation,

however.

In New Zealand, where the introduction of the missal began last Advent and was to take one year, the attitude among the country’s 560,000 Catholics largely has been to “just go on with the busi-

seminars and websites.

“By and large ... what’s all the fuss about?”

ness,” said Fr Trevor Murray, director of the National Liturgy Office for the country’s bishops.

Around the world the implementation has been boosted through workshops and meetings with key Church leaders aimed at explaining what the changes entail and their significance. Each bishops’ conference has developed its own resources, including laminated cards in pews for worshippers,

Perhaps the most widely used resource has been Become One Body, One Spirit in Christ, an interactive DVD which explores the richness of the liturgy, explains the changes and examines why they are being made. In Canada, Fr William Burke, director of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops’ National Liturgy Office, has found people accepting of the changes once reasoning behind them is explained. He visited 27 dioceses to explain these and said he has found some anxiety and animosity over the new text at each stop. As he reviews the translation and offers the reasoning behind them,

Franks, who unified liturgical practice in Western Europe by expanding the Sacramentary’s use among faith communities across the continent.

At the same time, Latin was becoming the language of the Church. Fr Daniel Merz, associate

Pope John Paul II

director of the USCCB’s Secretariat of Divine Worship, explained that the use of Latin took several hundred years to emerge, beginning in the 3rd century; by the 10th century it was widespread. “But even in Rome it’s interesting that the first several hundred years you can see he said he has seen the uncertainty wither. “By and large,” he said, I hear people saying, ‘What’s all the fuss about?’ People realise this is not the devastation (of the liturgy) we heard.”

Dominican Sister Jordana

Maher, coordinator of liturgy for the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference, said changes will be formally implemented at Advent even though some parishes began using them without authorisation before formal approval. The parishes picked up the texts from internet sources, thinking they were ready for use, she said. “That created a bit of a complicated situation,” she said.

The changes in South Africa, Botswana and Swaziland will move forward, however, without a new Lectionary due to problems with printing and distribution, she said.

In the United Kingdom, which includes the bishops’ conferences of Scotland, England and Wales, the implementation was to begin 4 September. “My ambition is that people turn up on the first Sunday of September and they’ll know there’s a new missal,” said Martin Foster, acting secretary of the Liturgy Office for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales.

For Fr Andrew McKenzie, secretary of the National Liturgy Commission in Scotland, the success won’t be measured for quite some time. “The real result will be seen after a couple of years on how well it is accepted,” he said. - CNS

to missionaries to allow Mass to be celebrated in local languages to aid in evangelisation - including Mandarin in China in the early 14th century, Arabic for the Carmelites in Persia in 1624 and Iroquoian for the Jesuits in 1773 near modern-day Montreal - Mass changed little until Vatican II.

1975 with the addition of new Eucharistic prayers for reconciliation. That English translation appeared in 1985 and remains the missal in use until Advent. But some Vatican officials felt that version could be improved and set about working on another translation.

there was this concern to have the language be in the language of the people,” he said.

After the Council of Trent it would be more than four centuries before the Roman Mass saw significant changes. Even though several popes granted concessions

The first document to emerge from Vatican II in 1963 was the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy (Sacrosanctum Consilium) which called for “full, conscious, and active participation” of all people in the liturgy. Known as the Missal of Paul VI, it was approved in 1969. That missal was translated into English by 1973 by the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL). It was slightly revised in

In 2001, the third translation was issued which incorporates the changes that will take effect at Advent. It took ICEL nearly a decade to translate the changes into English and gain Vatican approval, but not without tension.

“One of the things (people) appreciate most about the Catholic faith is tradition,” Thiron said. “When they see tradition is being preserved, they’re comfortable with that.” - CNS

A page from an illuminated missal from 11th-century Umbria, Italy, above. The closing session of the Council of Trent , at left, is depicted in an illustration from the 17th century.

PHOTOS: LEFT: CNS/ COURTESY ART RESOURCE; TOP: CNS/ART RESOURCE

The mysterious case of the

Death & Resurrection of

What happened when GK Chesterton’s famous priestdetective died and came to life again? An investigation by Tony Evans

‘FATHER Brown is dead!’ the cry went up. And the inhabitants of the little SpanishIndian settlement in South America where the priest had been appointed in charge of the Catholic mission, could hardly believe it.” And probably, neither could Chesterton’s readers. What did he think he was doing, killing off his most popular character?

There was no doubt that he was dead, the local doctor confirmed the fact after examining the body.

The Resurrection of Father Brown is one of Chesterton’s most tantalising and yet probably the least remarked of his stories. It heads the third collection, The Incredulity of Father Brown, in what was to become a series of five books. It was published in 1926 after a gap of twelve years since The Wisdom of Father Brown had appeared in 1914.

Chesterton never thought of the Father Brown stories as his serious work and his biographers comment that he tended to dictate them to Dorothy Collins when he was most pressed for money –notably in an effort to keep afloat his paper, G.K.’s Weekly

By 1926 the priest-detective was as well known to the reading public as Sherlock Holmes. His faithful readers (and doubtless his publishers) were clamouring for more. Was it merely a coincidence that the popularity of the Father Brown stories is reflected in the plot of the first story in the new set, where the gently protesting Brown becomes so famous and so glamorised that his fame ultimately led to his death? And again, as Chesterton mused over a plot for his first story, was he thinking of the dramatic reappearance of Holmes in The Return of Sherlock Holmes (1905) which is referred to by one of the characters in this story?

Another intriguing connection in the Resurrection story is that 1926, the publication date, was also the year that the Distributist League was formed in London, with Chesterton as President. In the story Chesterton describes how Father Brown had established a type of independent commune at the mission where each family had been given and had worked its own portion of land – a principle which the Distributists were then advocating. As he writes: “Father Brown had played a certain part, and by doing so

had taken, perhaps, what was his first and last part in politics.”

Chesterton begins his story by describing how famous Father Brown had become. “He was a nine-days wonder in the newspapers; he was even a common topic of conversation – especially in America.” This came about largely because an American journalist, Paul Snaith, called at the mission. Although he was an atheist and a bitter critic of religion and the clergy, he was sufficiently interested in the success of the mission to write admiringly about Father Brown for the newspapers in the north – “his journalistic instincts were stronger than his prejudices”, writes Chesterton.

In other words, journalist Snaith knew a good story when he found it. As a result Father Brown became a sensation. All of which seriously embarrassed the humble priest who begged Snaith to put a stop to “this strange boom”.

The artful Snaith, aided by the Conservative dictator Alvarez, persuaded Father Brown to, in effect, “disappear temporarily over a cliff, in the manner of Dr Watson’s hero”. Unfortunately Father Brown, in his simplicity, being so overcome by his embarrassment at his undeserved public

The murder had been staged one dark night when Fr Brown had been invited to dine with the dictator, and was set upon by rogues.

adulation, wrote notes in haste which appeared to agree with this scheme.Unbeknown to him those notes were intended to be used later to incriminate him.

The murder was staged one dark night when Father Brown had been invited to dine with the dictator, Alvarez. The priest was set upon by two rogues, one used his cudgel and the other used his knife. There was no doubt in people’s minds that Father Brown had been murdered. His funeral was attended by everyone in the district and the coffin left open for the mourners to pay their last respects to their friend and protector. The eulogy was delivered by the splendidly uniformed dictator himself.

Just as we are wondering how Chesterton is going to resolve this extraordinary plot situation, he has the atheist Snaith calling out and stopping the be-medalled demagogue in mid-speech. He shouts, “Stop! Stop! I swear I saw him move.” The crowd was thunderstruck and everyone believed there had been a miracle. It was true. Father Brown moved and started to sit up.

Later, recovering in his study at the mission house, Father Brown explains to a sympathetic friend, John Race, what he thinks may have happened to cause this ‘miracle’:

“And now,” said Father Brown almost grimly, “I can begin to think.”

“I shouldn’t think too hard just yet,” said the American. “You must be wanting a rest. Besides, what are you going to think about?”

“I have pretty often had the task of investigating murders, as it happens,” said Father Brown. “Now I have got to investigate my own murder.”

“If I were you,” said Race, “I should take a little wine first.”

Father Brown stood up and filled himself another glass, lifted it, looked thoughtfully into vacancy and put it down again. Then he sat down once more and said:

“Do you know what I felt like when I died? You may not believe it, but my feeling was one of overwhelming astonishment.”

“Well,” answered Race, “I sup-

pose you were astonished at being knocked on the head.” Father Brown leaned over to him and said in a low voice, “I was astonished at not being knocked on the head.” Race looked at him for a moment as if he thought the knock on the head had been only too effective; but he only said: “What do you mean?”

“I mean that when that man brought his bludgeon down with a great swipe, it stopped at my head and did not even touch it. In the same way, the other fellow made as if to strike me with a knife, but he never gave me a scratch. It was just like play-acting. I think it was. But then followed the extraordinary thing.”

Father Brown A Church of major and minor orders

He looked thoughtfully at the papers on the table for a moment and then went on.

“Though I had not even been touched by the knife or stick, I began to feel my legs doubling up under me and my very life failing, but it was not by those weapons. Do you know what I think it was?”

And he pointed to the wine at the table.

Race picked up the wine-glass and looked at it and smelt it.

“I think you are right,” he said. “I began as a druggist and studied chemistry. I couldn’t say for certain without an analysis but I think there is something very unusual in this stuff. There are drugs by which Asiatics produce a

temporary sleep that looks like death.” “Quite so,” said the priest calmly. “The whole of this miracle was faked, for some reason or other. That funeral scene was staged – and timed. I think it is part of that raving madness of publicity that has got hold of Snaith; but I can hardly believe he would go quite so far, merely for that. After all, it is one thing to make copy out of me and run me as a sort of sham Sherlock Holmes and ...”

Even as the priest spoke his face altered. His blinking eyelids shut suddenly and he stood up as if he were choking. Then he put one wavering hand as if he were groping his way to the door.

“Where are you going ?” asked

the other in some wonder.

“If you ask me,” said Father Brown, who was quite white, “I was going to pray. Or rather to praise.”

“I’m not sure I understand. What is the matter with you?”

“I was going to praise God for having so strangely and so incredibly saved me – saved me by an inch.”

“Of course,” said Race, “I am not of your religion; but believe me, I have religion enough to understand that. Of course you would thank God for saving you from death.”

“No, “ said the priest. “Not from death. From disgrace.”

The other sat staring; and the priest’s next words broke out of him with a sort of cry.

“And if it had only been my disgrace! But it was the disgrace of all I stand for; the disgrace of the Faith that they were about to encompass. What it might have been! The most huge and horrible scandal ever launched against us since the last lie was choked in the throat of Titus Oats.”

“What on earth are you talking about?” demanded his companion.

“Well, I had better tell you at once,” said the priest; and sitting down he went on more composedly: “It came to me in a flash when I happened to mention Snaith and Sherlock Holmes. Now I happen to remember what I wrote about his absurd scheme; it was the natural thing to write, and yet I think that he had ingeniously manoeuvred me into writing just those words. They were something like ‘I am ready to die and come to life again like Sherlock Holmes, if that is the best way.’ And the moment I thought of that, I realised I had been made to write all sorts of things of that kind, all pointing to the same idea. I wrote, as if to an accomplice, saying that I would drink the drugged wine at a particular time. Now, don’t you see?”

Race sprang to his feet still staring: “Yes,” he said, “I think I begin to see.”

“They would have boomed the miracle. Then they would have bust up the miracle. And what is the worst, they would have proved that I was in the conspiracy. It would have been our sham miracle. That’s all there is to it. And about as near hell as you and I will ever be, I hope.”

Tony Evans is a writer and biographer. His latest book, William Wardell: Building with Conviction, is available from the The Record Bookshop.

In the new translation of the Mass, the third Eucharistic Prayer refers to the “Order of Bishops”. What does the word “order” mean?

The word “order” goes back to the early Church. The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains: “The word ‘order’ in Roman antiquity designated an established civil body, especially a governing body. Ordinatio means incorporation into an ordo.”

In the Church there are established bodies which Tradition, not without a basis in Sacred Scripture, has since ancient times called taxeis (Greek) or ordines. And so the liturgy speaks of the ordo episcoporum, the ordo presbyterorum, the ordo diaconorum Other groups also receive this name of ordo: catechumens, virgins, spouses, widows” (CCC 1537).

As this text implies, the term ordo, or order, had a much broader meaning in the early Church than it does today, when it refers primarily to those in sacred, or holy, orders. Then it meant an established body of persons who had certain rights and duties in the early Church.

Thus, for example, catechumens, or those preparing for Baptism, constituted a distinct order. They were allowed to attend the first part of the Mass, the liturgy of the Word, which until the Second Vatican Council was sometimes referred to as the “Mass of the Catechumens”. Then they were ushered out for the liturgy of the Eucharist, known as the “Mass of the Faithful”.

In the early Church there were three orders for groups of women: the orders of virgins, widows and deaconesses. In each case, incorporation into the order entailed the acceptance of certain duties and rights in the Church.

As regards virgins, St Paul advised all who could to remain unmarried in order to be more available for the things of God and to pursue holiness in body and spirit (cf 1 Cor 7:34-38).

Virgins constituted a distinct group in the Church, but entry into this order did not involve the laying on of hands.

In his Apostolic Tradition, St Hippolytus says: “A virgin does not have an imposition of hands, for personal choice alone is that which makes a virgin.”

In an earlier column, I wrote of the order of deaconesses who were not ordained ministers as are deacons today, but who assisted in the instruction and baptism of women, visited sick women and took Holy Communion to them, etc.

Similarly, the order of widows involved certain duties, among them great devotion in their spiritual life, instruction of younger women, etc.

Q&A

By Fr John Flader

These women’s orders did not involve any primary function in the liturgy. But there were at the same time orders of men which did. Apart from bishops, priests and deacons, which have always existed, these included subdeacons, porters (or door keepers), readers, acolytes and exorcists.

The latter four were called “minor orders” and were, as a rule, received as preparatory stages on the way to the priesthood. They were distinguished from the “major orders” of subdeacons, deacons, priests and bishops.

The porters’ role included watching over those entering Mass and ushering the catechumens at the end of the “Mass of the Catechumens”. Readers, or lectors, in the first centuries had the role of reading all the lessons in Mass, including the Epistle and the Gospel. Acolytes assisted the deacon in the lit-

It should lead us to an attitude of humble reverence ... and of absolute trust in his power

urgy, and exorcists prayed over people to bring about their release from various forms of demonic influence.

Pope Paul VI, in the Apostolic Letter Ministeria quaedam, on 15 August 1972, reformed the minor orders. The offices of reader and acolyte were retained as “ministries”, and could be conferred on the lay faithful in a ceremony to be called “installation”, not “ordination”.

The subdiaconate, which was a “major order”, was abolished in the Latin Church, leaving the three traditional major orders of bishop, priest and deacon. The major orders are all mentioned in the Scriptures and they have principal roles in the sacred liturgy.

They are known as “holy orders” because they confer the sacrament of Holy Orders in its three degrees of episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate through the laying on of hands by a bishop, in a ceremony properly called “ordination”.

The order of bishops is thus the body of those in the Church who have received the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders, and who are the successors of the apostles in the Church.

Heading to North America? Why not

BYPASS HOLLYWOOD?

We usually think of America as the place where you find big things like Hollywood, New York and the Grand Canyon. Piligrimages are best undertaken in Europe or the Holy Land, we think. But in Canada and the US, travel writer Paul Maughan discovered a rich variety of destinations and a tradition steeped in centuries of faith.

EUROPE is absolutely awash with pilgrimage sites; some of them, like Fatima and Lourdes, worldfamous.

North America on the other hand, with its rampant materialism and free wheeling spirit, would hardly seem worthy of pilgrim interest. Yet it should not be discounted for there are some remarkable spiritual centres in the USA and Canada.

Here are just a few such spots that I discovered while touring America recently.

MONTREAL - Canada

This is a charming, lively city that is a joy to visit; a fascinating blend of things English and French. Montreal’s skyline is a forest of church spires, for its heritage is explicitly religious – the conversion of native Indians to the Catholic faith being its whole purpose for conception in 1642

The ecclesial architecture here is stunning and there is a wealth of churches to explore.

Interestingly, the city’s Cathedral (Mary, Queen of the World), a magnet for worship, is a smaller version of St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. Unlike the real thing, it is easy to explore for there are no crowds.

Then there is the massive domed St Joseph’s Oratory - a modern, impressive but somewhat stark structure - that is developing a reputation for both pilgrimage and miraculous healings. A deceased monk, Brother Andre, said to have power to cure illness, is the focus of devotion here.

But it’s the renowned Notre Dame Basilica, with its stupendous interior that does it for me. So mesmerised was I with the opulence, aura and sanctity of its evocative interior I was reluctant to leave this hallowed shrine. Big enough to hold 5,000, it’s perhaps the most glorious, atmospheric sanctuary in the world.

When visiting Montreal don’t overlook its massive underground city of shops, malls, and walkways (the largest in the world); and ensure you wrap your teeth around a scrumptious, gigantic, traditional smoked-meat sandwich - the closest your stomach will get to heaven this side of death. Yum!

NIAGARA - USA

Less than a half hour drive from the frenetic activity and glitz that is Niagara Falls lies a spiritual sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady of Fatima.

The Shrine at Lewiston (New York State), under the direc-

The cathedral’s side chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary houses the oldest statue of the Virgin Mary in North America, which over time has gained near-mythical status and popular patronage.

While the cathedral is a joy and very busy, it’s perhaps its near neighbour, the now decommissioned Loretto Chapel that creates more interest. The chapel is famous for its elegantly curved six metre “miraculous” spiral staircase kept aloft without nails or a centre support. Amazing.

Close to 300,000 people a year come to pray and ask for healing at this tiny chapel high in the mountains of New Mexico.

tion of the Barnabite Order, consists of an impressive domed basilica depicting a contour of the Northern Hemisphere topped by a four-metre statue of Our Lady of Fatima.

Set in 15 acres of manicured grounds, pilgrims and tourists come by the thousands year round to pray, meditate, or just to look. The impressive approach to the basilica is down the Avenue of Saints (lined with130 life-size marble and bronze statues) which leads to a giant rosary, incorporating a heart shaped pond, believed to be the largest outdoor rosary in the world. It’s a spectacular sight.

SANTA FE - USA

Small, romantic, picturesque, New Mexico’s arty capital is a cultural gem with lovely adobe buildings and world-class museums set in a lonely desert atop a 7000 foot plateau. Founded in 1609, Santa Fe has a rich Catholic heritage with tourists flocking in and about St Francis Cathedral from where all tourism activity seems to radiate.

Apparently, a mysterious carpenter appeared, rapidly built these remarkable and ornate stairs, and then vanished without payment. They are certainly a source of wonder and unquestionably a major tourism drawcard.

ALBUQUERQUE - USA

This sprawling but beautiful modern high-tech hub is less than an hour from Santa Fe and home to an eclectic mix of magnificent museums, restaurants and galleries selling native American jewellery and craft. Built on the banks of the Rio Grande, and dissected by the legendry (but now defunct) Route 66 Highway, it is a busy city of Western ambience, adobe architecture, fiery Tex-Mex food, and ancient pueblo history.

The city’s first civic structure, the imposing San Felipe de Neri church has stood as the centrepiece of Albuquerque’s enchanting Old Town Plaza since 1793.

Despite many renovations, the church retains its original adobe walls within which a constant flow of people seeks sanctuary for prayer and reflection in a unique, nostalgic western atmosphere. It’s a very special place. If you want

to get closer to heaven while here then don’t miss the popular (but unnerving) 15 minute sky gondola trip to the 10,500 foot high Sandia Peak above the city. It’s a breathtaking journey offering outstanding panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

CHIMAYO - USA

The church of the Santuario de Chimayo has been a place of pilgrimage on the ‘High Road to Taos’ (the old Spanish trade route between Santa Fe and the north) since 1816.

Close to 300,000 people a year come to meditate, pray and ask for healing at this tiny chapel, a remote shrine in a small village high in the mountains in New Mexico. It is an extraordinarily picturesque and quaint place.

Often called the “Lourdes of America” it is much favoured by the local Hispanic people who pursue devout but mystifying rituals here.

The Taos–Santa Fe corridor is also hallowed ground for Western fans for this area of New Mexico was frequented by a number of mythical cowboy characters including the legendary Kit Carson and Billy the Kid. Canada and the US can deliver a delightful mix of scenic, cultural, and spiritual satisfaction to the informed tourists. It’s a great destination for Aussies – safe, comfortable and cheap.

Sure they travel on the wrong side of the road and it’s hard to get a good cup of tea but they are an hospitable, polite and friendly mob. Go and see for yourself!

IF YOU GO

Japan Airlines flies to both Canada and the USA ex Brisbane with a free 24-hour stopover in Japan (most flights). Economy airfares start from $1,374 + tax. They offer many convenient entry points to America including Vancouver, LA, NY and Chicago.

Top: The domed basilica at Lewiston.

Above (left): The church of the Santuario de Chimayo in New Mexico.

Above (Right): The facade of St Francis Cathedral in Santa Fe. Right: A magnet for healings: St Joseph’s Oratory in Montreal.

Consultation did marriage no good at all

Asking MPs to test the temperature of their electorates in relation to same-sex marriage only confused things more.

Late last year Greens MP Adam Bandt put a motion to Federal Parliament that politicians seek the views of their constituents in regards samesex marriage. That motion was passed and MPs spent this year in “consultation mode” until last month when the period of official consultation ended.

The position of Bandt and the Greens party in relation to same-sex marriage is of course well known. The consultation was really designed to create a bit of a smokescreen and advance the cause of same-sex marriage one step further.

Besides the fact that numerous MPs disliked the idea of being told by the new kid on the parliamentary block how to do their jobs (as if they never consulted their constituents), in my mind the ‘consultation’ process was a flawed one from the beginning.

We live in a democratic nation and while that is a great blessing, it can lead we citizens to believe that our ability to decide on questions of ethics and morality is also a democratic right. If you walk outside now and ask the first ten people you see if the aforementioned consultation process was a good idea

We can choose to share or steal but we cannot decide that stealing will be a virtue and sharing a sin. Morality is planted within us.

(regardless of their position on the issue) you would without a doubt get a very high ‘yes’ response.

If you pushed further about why people believed it was a good idea you would likely get responses revolving around ideas of democracy, freedom, the importance of listening to all opinions, majority consensus and so on. That is all good and well if we are deciding on day-today matters of regulation and law, but for us to think that we can vote on the meaning of marriage in the same way that we vote for a prime minister is a misunderstanding of the “freedom” of true democracy. Freedom is one of the most misunderstood words in modern language. We commonly perceive freedom to be the ability to do as we please, and to some extent that is true. Freedom does allow us the privilege to choose the direction we will walk; to decide the shape of our lives. However freedom is not absolute; in fact, when you break it down we are not very free at all. You

Foolish Wisdom

“a foolishness wiser than human wisdom” (1 Cor 1:25)

By Bernard Toutounji

did not choose when or where you would be born. You did not choose your family. Your initial attitudes to the world when you were young are most often shaped by your parents and their personal attitudes. So while human persons crave freedom above all else, we exist with the tension of only a partial freedom. True freedom, though, will always be a preeminent good because it is what allows us to be great sinners or great saints. Freedom is of course God’s gift to mankind and he will never impinge upon our personal freedom.

There are some choices that we are simply not free to make. If we recall the story of our first parents in the Garden of Eden we will recall the tree of the knowledge of good and evil that was planted in the centre of the garden. The man and woman were “free” to eat from any tree in the garden but that particular tree they were not even permitted to touch. The deep truth hidden in this story speaks to us very much of freedom’s real nature. It tells us that even though we have the ability to choose subjectively in our lives whether we should walk left or right, we do not have the ability to objectively declare that left will now be right and right will be left. We can choose to share or to steal but we cannot decide that stealing will be a virtue and sharing will be a sin. The essence of morality has been planted within us, just like the tree in the garden.

The first man and woman misused their freedom because they attempted to do something they could not do, to reach out and take the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Each person since has been given the same freedom; we can choose to obey or disobey but we should not be so foolhardy to think we can create our own realities. The job of government is not to create new realities, it is to help and assist people to choose good realities. When government takes it upon itself to “decide” the definition of marriage it is overstepping its boundary, failing to realise that we are not our own gods. Putting forward a consultation about an issue such as marriage has only served to further confuse people into believing that their freedom is much greater than it actually is. b_toutounji@optusnet.com.au

Father’s Day: the very Australian contradiction

One of the curious truths of Australian life is that relatively few in the key policy making sections of our society comprehend the vital importance of the family unit and the disastrous consequences that emerge from eroding its status in society. And last weekend was Father’s Day.

It has been reported that new fathers will receive approximately $1,200 as part of the federal government’s national paid parental leave scheme. Certainly, it seems like a good idea. But is it enough to help begin a trend back to true fatherhood as something that it was once in Australia - responsible, noble, sacrificial, strong?

It might seem to some that there is a contradiction in Australian life over fathers and fatherhood. On the one hand we extol Father’s Day and quaint, romantic notions of fathers and happy families. On the other we relentlessly promote a false culture of bravado and irresponsibility among boys and men, through our media, our politicians and our culture - the idea that young men full of hormones should be able to do whatever they like with no particular responsibility for their actions. They end up becoming fathers and then, as Australians say, piss off. It is a pattern they tend to repeat for the rest of their lives. What produces these failed boys? It’s a question we are not, as a society, willing to face. What is not grasped by the decadent cultural elites who set so much of the social policy agenda (as opposed to the other Australian culture of average families living in the outer suburban fringes of Australia’s cities) is one simple fact: by every indice known to the social sciences the best place on earth for children to be is the intact nuclear family made up of father and mother living in a committed, exclusive relationship of fidelity to each other and to their children.

An early step in the erosion of the family in Australia was the introduction of no-fault divorce laws in the early 1970s which both absolved growing numbers of men of any real ties or responsibilities to their children and, paradoxically, gave courts the power to remove children from their fathers on a more or less permanent basis.

The sons and daughters of divorce were trained in a fatherless culture ... and many sons have had no fathers to teach them the paths of the world

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The sons and daughters of divorce were therefore trained in a fatherless culture which has been growing ever since. Now we have growing numbers of those sons less inclined than ever before to see marriage or family as a natural goal for their own lives, and more inclined than ever before to see women and girls in general as nothing more than temporary conquests. Why? They have had no fathers to teach them the paths of the world. The destruction of family life and of true fatherhood was clearly one of the real contributory factors in the London riots several weeks ago.

For decades our society has been embracing an increasing trend towards the pornification of our media in all its forms, especially through popular entertainment. Women and girls suffer enormously from this.

Boys, always more vulnerable to consumption of pornography, are continuously exposed to a toxic culture. The elites who dominate policy appear incapable of grasping that pornography (apart from the women and girls abused to produce it) is also a form of sexual abuse of boys. They are largely incapable of grasping that there is any connection between the pornification of society carried out in the name of ‘rights’ and the very disturbing problem of the sexualisation of girls. As a result they cannot analyse or understand why fathers and fatherhood are deeply important to other people such as children because they comprehend fatherhood only as the voluntary action of an individual - minus any wider relational or social dimension and significance.

A society that has failed to grasp the meaning of fatherhood is therefore incapable of fostering it. A grant of $1,200 cannot solve a deep and protracted social problem which is now ingrained in our culture. And in all probability the only people who now understand the deep importance to children, to spouses and to society of that fierce sacrificial and protective love we call fatherhood, are Christians.

New missal on target

THIS Advent, which is fast looming, will see the introduction in parishes around Australia of the newly translated prayers of the Mass. It is a deeply gratifying, historic moment in the Church in Australia of a kind not seen since the late 1960s when Catholics translated themselves (in Australia) into the habit of praying the prayers of the Mass in English. It will undoubdtedly take some getting used to again on the part of everyone involved but, one reasonably hopes, Catholics will be drawn closer as a result to the intimate spiritual tradition which is the Roman Catholic Mass, the roots of which flow back to Christ, the apostles and the living communities of the first Christians. Despite initial difficulties as we all get used to a new missal, this Advent will be a special joy.

Femininity’s loss

I WOULD like to express my delight at the insightful and mature article by Grace Feltoe in last week’s Record. I not only appreciated the wisdom from someone so young, I sensed that she is a young woman of substance who will hopefully impart this knowledge to others in the future. There is much to learn from this young lady who is very much in-tune with ‘He’ who dwells within her soul.

Grace was correct in asserting that women in general no longer behave in a feminine manner or a lady like manner and men do not treat them that way anymore either. Women have lost respect from men in order to gain some perceived equality to them. Men on the other hand, are often confused when around women. A lot of men are downright disrespectful, but many don’t know what to do out of fear of being ridiculed or scorned.

We need strong women like Grace Feltoe who can stand tall and speak clearly to truth.

Peter Gregory Mt Barker WA

Thanks on crisis

THANK you for the article ‘How to handle Crisis 2.0’. Your insight is extremely chal-

Letters to the editor

lenging, but also very encouraging, for family-based lay communities like Disciples of Jesus. You remind us that our current membership is laying the foundations for what is likely to be a long and difficult battle. There is absolutely no room for complacency on our part.

Encouraging, because if we keep our eyes on the Lord, and remain faithful to His Church we can play a role in the re-Christianisation of Australia. The younger generation in our Community are called to maintain the radical nature of authentic Catholicism in their relationships and approach to marriage and family. Next week, 15 of our couples are participating in a Marriage Enrichment weekend; your article is so timely.

Thank you for the leadership you and the Record play in plac-

ing before Catholics the truth. You deserve a much wider readership. I will be more diligent in circulating your articles.

May God continue to bless the Record staff.

Reg Firth OSBORNE PARK

Hell yes

I COMMEND your publishing Fr. John Flader on the question of universal salvation. The view that hell may be no more than an unactualised possibility that the entire human race will be in Heaven could be the most pernicious error of our time, contradicting as it does both Scripture (Dan. 12:2, Mt 22:14, Mt 25:41-46, Jude 7, etc) and tradition, (the condemnation of Origenism by Pope Vigilius and later by the Second Council by Constantinople).

Father David Watt, St Philomena’s Chapel, Malaga

Something to say?

Put it in letter office@therecord.com.au

Analysis Church has a clear mission in public debates on life

Australia’s Catholic moral theologians kept an eye on a range of critically important issues as they met in Perth in July, writes

THE giving and receiving of friendship could be a basis for protecting the personhood of the profoundly cognitively impaired, and therefore grounds for protecting their inalienable human dignity.

So suggests one of Australia’s youngest and newest prelates, Peter Comensoli, the auxillary bishop of the archdiocese of Sydney

As our health system struggles with the rising incidence of dementia, Bishop Comensoli prompted lively discussion on the challenge of preserving human dignity among 16 theologians who gathered in Perth for the annual conference of the Catholic Moral Theology Association of Australia and New Zealand. This is the first time the conference has been held in Perth.

Bishop Comensoli’s presentation, Friendship with the profoundly impaired: an anthropological question mark was the final paper delivered at the conference

New perspectives were also proposed for an age-old Catholic topic, the dignity of procreation, in an important paper given by John Kleinsman of New Zealand entitled Understanding the dignity of procreation in light of a framework of giving and receiving Assisted reproductive technologies mean that children can now be selected to conform to the desires of their parents, including the desire to have children with or without various genetic qualities.

These developments demanded a new theological response, Mr Kleinsman said. A relatively new line of theological thinking – the theology of gift – might offer a good starting point. It is by seeing children as “gifts” that we receive with gratitude, “we see them as trusts, rather than as possessions, products or projects”.

An extraordinary paper that viewed moral theology through the insights of modern psychology research was offered by Adelaide parish priest and moral theologian Fr Mario Van Antwerpen.

“Neurology and psychology are offering us new tools to make sure that what we propose ethically as Catholics is beneficial to us as humans”, Fr Antwerpen said.

“They also reveal the strange quirks of our brains that make being moral more difficult ... Psychologically speaking, the brain is a panic-seeking device, but religion trains us to use our whole brain to live in peace.”

The Church has a vision of human flourishing, that embraces individual and social aspects.

Well-known Melbourne ethicist

Fr Norman Ford SDB gave a historical overview of the Church’s understanding of human reproduction, delivering a paper he had previously given at a Vatican conference in 2010 and which is soon to be published as an article in The Australasian Catholic Record

“From the earliest Christian times absolute respect was required for human life from conception,” Fr Ford said.

“Catholics hold that children should be conceived and born of the marriage union, without cloning or the extra-corporeal formation of embryos destined for destructive research.”

Another long-serving ethicist, Fr Cormac Nagle OFM, addressed the concept of the human person in

Fr Joe Parkinson

Catholic teaching on marriage and sexuality, arguing we need to give due weight to the Vatican Council’s holistic picture of the person.

Recent developments in the social sciences, psychology and sociology had verified the Council’s integrated view of the human person, upon which so much of Catholic moral teaching is based.

“Thus marriage is described as a covenant relationship, and upon that relationship hang the responsibilities and goals of the wellbeing of the spouses and the procreation and upbringing of the children”, Fr Nagle said.

“In judging the morality of human living and also spiritual growth in other areas, the Catholic tradition sees the person not simplistically as a physical or biological entity, but as a relational being in whom body, soul, spirit, intellect and emotions all form an integrated whole created to love and be loved.”

I reflected on the euthanasia debate in Western Australia in 2010, drawing some tentative lessons for the Church as it engages in public policy debates.

Drawing on its concern for the human person and its tradition of social teaching, in particular its notion of the common good, the Church has a vision of human flourishing that embraces both individual and social aspects of being human and a sense of the kind of social conditions required to ensure that flourishing.

In often lively public policy debates, then, the Church has a mission to keep alive “the wisdom that sustains us” both individually and socially, confident that this reflects the divine wsisdom that creates and sustains all things.

Fr Parkinson is the Director of the Archdiocese of Perth’s LJ Goody Bioethics Centre

Modern life’s syndrome of exclusion

A daughter with Down syndrome is no source of shame, but more understanding would make life easier, says Jan Gothard

‘F*** you, Wing, your sister has Down syndrome!”

These words were once hurled at NSW rugby league star Craig Wing while he was playing for the Sydney Roosters at the Sydney Football Stadium.

Wing, the long-term patron of the Down Syndrome Association of NSW, responded to the abuse with incredulity. The ugliness of the language was matched only by those of the sentiments it represented.

Family is of course beyond the pale when it comes to sledging, but this story also underlines continuing divisions within society about Down syndrome and about disability more generally. There is a sector of society, not just confined to football fans, that still considers a family member with a disability such as Down syndrome to be shameful.

My daughter with Down syndrome has never been a source of shame to our family. Indeed, we are enormously proud of the fine young woman she has become, but there is no doubt her journey and ours could have been easier if social attitudes towards people with disabilities had been more positive.

My book  Greater Expectations was written to highlight the role of atti-

tudes and expectations in shaping the experience of disability today.

As an historian, I am well aware of how far we have travelled since the not-so-distant days of automatic institutionalisation of children with a disability such as Down syndrome. The assertion that “things are so much better now”, though anodyne, is nonetheless true.

The media is full of stories that attest to the success of people with disabilities and of society in accommodating difference. People like my daughter are getting a driving licence, playing the piano, voting, giving their opinions before government inquiries and living in their own households. Many need support to do these things, though this does not compromise their capacity to live decent and worthwhile lives within the community.

Nonetheless, there remains a profound gulf between what society purports to aspire to for itself, as a warm, cuddly and accepting place, and what people are prepared to welcome into their own homes.

One mother of a baby with Down syndrome captured this all too clearly. Gushed over once too often by a well-meaning but unthinking member of the “they’re

all such dear little things” school, she finally snapped back: “So how come you don’t want one, then?”

To try to answer that question, we need to consider the historical legacy of exclusion, first through institutionalisation and then, more recently and much more efficiently, through pre-natal screening. The consequences remain all pervasive.

If Down syndrome is a condition we can test for and screen against;

Disability is not just about difference but is another aspect of being human

if carrying a baby with Down syndrome is unquestioned grounds for termination; if bringing up a child with Down syndrome was once considered so dreadful a fate that people “put their child away” instead, then the message is still very clear: such a child is something to guard against, not to welcome. What kind of future are we embracing if we allow this child into our lives? It is this question in all its starkness parents have to confront.

In writing my book, I interviewed more than 60 people living with Down syndrome. Some were born with it; some chose it, either by opting not to have a termination or by adopting children with Down syndrome; and some had it thrust upon them. They lived across Western Australia and their experiences were as diverse as their locations.

I interviewed a number of young men and women with Down syndrome, living at home or independently or with support in the community, busy doing ordinary things and simply getting on with their lives.

Take one married couple who live south of Perth for example: the morning when I spoke to them, they had just come back from doing the weekly shopping before they caught the Eagles supporters coach up to town to see the football. I admit I was taken aback at my own surprise at just how “normal” their lives were – but why not?

I also spoke to parents. The conversations ranged over the birth experience; the education minefield, health and encounters with health professionals, growing up, sexuality, work, leaving home and independence. Alongside their

A day to wake up and smell the roses

There comes a time where a father must realise the limit and expanse of his responsibility

MY AGE is beginning to show. As I lay in bed on Father’s Day last week, my mind was not dwelling on the aroma of bacon and eggs, the warm comfort of my bed or the prospect of unwrapping and identifying the handmade creations presented by my beautiful children. Rather, I was pondering on just what sort of legacy I would be leaving them.

I recalled a story I once heard about a nun in the United States who organised for the Hallmark Company to donate a substantial number of Mother’s Day cards to inmates at the state prison. The response was overwhelming. Hundreds of cards were sent out. Inspired by the large numbers, the nun decided to repeat the process for Father’s Day. Imagine her surprise when not even one prisoner responded to the offer.

It was a powerful message that reminded me of the heavenly responsibility bestowed upon me from the moment my first child was conceived. American author Kent Nerburn once wrote: “It is much easier to become a father than to be one.” The older my children get the more these words resonate within me.

In those first years of parenting it is easy to become trapped in the day-to-day ritual of childrearing – playing, feeding, clothing, nagging – and to overlook the need for a child’s long-range development. But, as revealed in my pre-breakfast mid-life crisis, there must come a time when our children will seek to step outside the bubble we have hidden them in. When innate forces will propel them beyond our parentally manipulated horizons and expose them to elements of the world we wish they never had to discover.

It is at this time that they may also start to recognise that we are not, in fact, perfect, that there are higher places in the world than on our shoulders, and that we cannot protect them from everything in their ever-expanding universe. It is a crossroad that every

I say I say

By Mark Reidy

father must come to: a moment of illumination where we are confronted with the realisation we have to be more than just a protector and provider – or even a mobile playground or tickling

life of independence. I believe it is a role that has too often been misunderstood, ignored or abused and the consequences have been catastrophic.

At the extreme end of the spectrum, the failure or absence of fathers has contributed to overflowing prisons, increased violence, drug and alcohol abuse and family breakdown; but much more subtle is the emotional and spiritual void left within all children who do not receive the God-intended love and guidance of a father or father-figure.

I looked across at the Bible by my bedside and knew that I already had the answer.

vendor. It is, at once, a sad, exciting, daunting and wondrous enlightenment. Because it reveals to us our divine vocation: to prepare our children to become the adults that God created them to be; a time where we must begin the process of equipping and then slowly releasing them into a

If we do not fill our children with the wisdom of God, then how can we expect them to battle the counter-Christian culture that is staining our world? If we do not instil in their hearts the preciousness of every life, then how do we expect them to respond to issues

enormous love for and pride in their children, what they conveyed was that having a child with a disability is no small deal. It requires a longer-term commitment, perhaps, and more foresight and planning than is the case where one’s children are born without a disability.

The issues dealt with by families can be exacerbated by ignorance, negativity and institutional inertia; by token attitudes towards inclusion; and by deep-rooted ideas and out-dated practices that deny people with disabilities the right to participate fully.

When you live with disability on a daily basis, you come to realise that disability is not, ultimately, just about difference, but is another aspect of being human. Full inclusion can only occur when that is more generally recognised.

As one father said: “When [our daughter] turned one, we all got round to celebrate her birthday and thought back to the day she was born, all the tears, all the trauma, and I just couldn’t help thinking, what on earth was all the fuss about?”

That’s another question that’s very hard to answer.

Jan Gothard is Associate Professor in History at Murdoch university.

Star’s choice of wardrobe riles designer of his clothes

A fashion spat raises interesting questions, writes Katie

Hinderer

LAST week, celebrity gossip sites were all abuzz with the news that fashion company Abercrombie and Fitch had asked American actor Michael Sorrentino to stop wearing its clothing.

The retailer was unhappy about the brand being associated with the reality-TV star. Usually companies jump at any opportunity to have their clothing worn by a celebrity. There are full fashion spreads in magazines that show readers where to buy the exact same pair of jeans as a handful of stars. Most companies send celebrities free samples just to encourage them to wear the pieces out.

such as contraception, abortion, euthanasia and immigration?

If we do not teach them the beauty and sacredness of sex, then how can we expect them to relate and commit in their future relationships? If we do not introduce them to the truth that God is love and that love is sacrificial, then how will they ever learn to step outside their own desires and reach out to others?

I looked across at the Bible by my bedside and knew I already had the answer: “You must love your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength … Let these words stay in your heart. You shall tell them to your children and keep on telling them, when you are sitting at home, when you are lying down and when you are standing up …” (Deut 6:6-8).

Yes, God certainly gave me a wake up call this Father’s Day. Stop smelling the bacon and eggs, he told me, and start “smelling the roses” that I have placed in your care!

But Abercrombie and Sorrentino mix as well as oil and water. The retailer, which made its money on an advertising campaign that basically says ‘you’ll look better taking off our clothes than wearing them’, didn’t like the drama-filled star wearing their gear on film and out on the streets. Its preppy polo-shirt and jeans look doesn’t necessarily describe the muscular, tanned and boisterous East-coast actor.

The whole situation brings a fresh look to branding clothing and celebrity endorsements. The wrong endorser can be detrimental to a brand if it turns customers away. But at the same time a company can’t ask anyone to stop wearing something because it sends the wrong message.

To be honest, I wouldn’t mind seeing fewer Abercrombie stores. Between their scantily clad advertising pictures, shirt-less models standing around for customers to take pictures with and thongs for primary school girls they aren’t exactly a company high on human dignity.

Republished from www.mercatornet.com

THURSDAY

8 SEPTEMBER

Celebration of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s birthday 7pm at Notre Dame parish, cnr Wright and Daly Sts, Cloverdale. Begins with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Hickey. Mass will also commemorate 40th anniversary of consecration and opening of church. Followed by light supper. Enq: Fr Nelson 9277 4094.

FRIDAY

9 SEPTEMBER

Saints and sacred relics apostolate formation

4.45pm at St Philomena’s Chapel, 3/24 Juna Dr, Malaga. Learn about the holy relic of the saints, their place in the history and rituals of the Catholic Church, their biblical and theological significance. More than 200 first and second class relics of various canonised and beatified men and women of the Catholic faith. Enq: Giovanny 0478 201 092 or ssra-perth@catholic.org.

9 TO 16 SEPTEMBER 2012

2012 summer school Royal School of Church Music

The programme will include workshops for Church musicians and singers and Church music liturgy. Enq: David www.rscmaustralia.org.au.

SATURDAY

10 SEPTEMBER

Anglican ordinariate group

11am at Holy Cross Tide in the courtyards of Notre Dame University, Fremantle. All welcome to pray the stations of the Cross. Enq: Fr Ted Wilson 0349 5798 or Br Harry on 0417 180 145.

“Mary, Blessed among all women”Catholic women’s day retreat

9am-3pm at St Brigid’s Parish, 69b Morrison Rd, Midland. Day of reflection, prayer and spiritual enlightenment with the Franciscan Friars and Sisters of the Immaculate. Spiritual director Fr Joseph. Lunch provided. Registration by 1 September. Enq: Lydia 0413 993 987 or catholicwomen.perth@gmail.com.

“Inner joy” morning retreat

9-12pm at John XXIII College, John XXIII Ave, Mt Claremont. The retreat provides a stimulus for us to become more fully alive. There will be time given to clarification, silence and to wander in the college gardens. Ends with scriptural meditation. Presenter: Murray Graham (Inigo centre director) Cost: donation Inigo Centre. Enq and registration: Murray 9383 0444 or graham.murray@johnxxiii. edu.au.

Divine Mercy Healing Mass

2.30pm at St Francis Xavier Church, 25 Windsor St, East Perth. Main celebrant Fr Marcellinus Meilak OFM. Reconciliation in English and Italian will be offered. Divine Mercy prayers followed by veneration of first class relic of St Faustina Kowalska. Refreshments afterwards. Enq: John 9457 7771.

THE FOLLOWING WEEK

SUNDAY, 11 SEPTEMBER

The world apostolate of Fatima 3pm at St Mary Mackillop Church, cnr Pelican Pde and Cassowary Dr, Ballajura. All welcome for Eucharistic hour. Pilgrim virgin statue will be present. Enq: 9339 2614.

Spring Concert

2pm at Queen of Apostles Church, 57 Tudor Ave, Riverton. Featuring Dominic Perissinotto, Pavithra Silva, Kathleen How, Rossmoyne SHS Year 11 chorale and more. Entry by donation. Proceeds will go towards the Riverton Parish music ministry and upkeep of the parish pipe organ. Tea provided. For catering purposes RSVP to parish office 9354 0707.

WEDNESDAY, 14 SEPTEMBER

Catholic Social Justice – Fr Dionesius Seminar

12-2pm at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, 40A Mary St, Highgate. Social Catholic teaching by Fr Dionesius, founder and director of ‘Peace Laboratory’. Enq: Miriam 9422 7900

FRIDAY, 16 SEPTEMBER

Healing Mass and Eucharistic adoration

7-10pm at Holy Family Parish, 375 Alcock St, Maddington. Led by Fr Augustine Vallooran VC, Director of Divine Retreat Centre, Potta, India.

PANORAMA

What’s on around the Archdiocese of perth, where and when.

FRIDAY, 16 TO SUNDAY, 18 SEPTEMBER

“Living The Franciscan Way” - secular Franciscans of WA retreat 7pm at the Redemptorist North Perth Monastery guesthouse. Explore how the spirituality of St Francis can impact on one’s relationship with God and personal happiness, as well as how Franciscan witness impacts on the Church and society at large. Will include a liturgical celebration of St Francis’ gift of the stigmata. Live-in option available. Daytime attendance is possible. Enq and registration: Anthony 0449 864 287.

SATURDAY, 17 SEPTEMBER

Love Ministry Healing 6pm at Our Lady of Mercy, cnr Girrawheen Ave and Patrick Ct, Girrawheen. Love Ministry Healing team including Fr Nishan and other clergy. Come and be prayed over, healed from the past or present issues or stand in for a loved one who may be ill or facing problems at this time. Enq: Fr Hugh Thomas or Gilbert on 0431 570 322.

St Padre Pio pilgrimage to Toodyay and anniversary of St Francis stigmata 8am buses depart. 10.15am DVD, 11.30am Mass, confession available. 1pm lunch BYO, tea and coffee provided. 2.30pm Eucharistic procession, rosary, adoration, Divine Mercy and benediction. 4pm depart for Perth. Enq: Midland, Catrina, 9255 1938; Bassendean, Ivana 9279 7261; Morley, Joan 9276 9439; Leederville, Leena 9444 3617; Balcatta, Rosa 9276 1952; Glendalough, Fr Doug 9444 6131.

One day healing retreat

9am-5pm at Holy Family Parish, 375 Alcock St, Maddington. Led by Fr Augustine Vallooran VC, Director of Divine Retreat Centre, Potta, India. BYO lunch.

Youth Music Workshop with Fr Rob Galea –Catholic Youth Ministry

2-5pm at Catholic Pastoral Centre, 40A Mary St, Highgate. Featuring International touring Catholic musician – Fr Rob Galea. Cost: $10includes afternoon tea. Bring your whole music team or come on your own. Registrations and enq: admin@cym.com.au or 9422 7912.

UPCOMING

SUNDAY, 18 SEPTEMBER

Healing service 7-9.30pm at Our Lady of the Mission Parish, Whitford, 270 Camberwarra Dr, Craigie. Led by Fr Augustine Vallooran VC, Director of Divine Retreat Centre, Potta, India.

75th anniversary celebrations

9.30am at St Francis Xavier Church, 25 Windsor St, Perth. Mass. Past parishioners, ex-pupils of SFX school are cordially invited. Enq: Barbara 0401 178 782 or Roseanne 0434 899 406.

Healing service

1-4pm at Good Shepherd Parish, 215 Morley Dr, Lockridge. Enq: Melanie 0410 605 743 or m.fonseca@curtin.edu.au.

St Jerome’s Parish school fete 9-2pm at St Jerome’s Parish, 36 Troode St, Munster. Variety of stalls: cakes, books, jar bazaar, white elephant, rides, hot food, refreshments, raffles, Holden Club of WA and more. Enq: Brenda 9418 5998.

‘Madrid WYD comes two Perth’ concert –Catholic Youth Ministry 6pm at St Thomas More Parish, Cnr of Dean & Marsengo Rds, Bateman. Begins with Mass; 7:30pm Sunday Sesh with International Catholic musician, Fr Rob; followed by fellowship and supper. Register for FREE ticket: admin@cym. com.au or pay $5 at the door. Enq: cym.com.au or 9442 9712.

TUESDAY, 20 SEPTEMBER

Baby Mass 7.30pm at Our Lady of Grace Parish, 3 Kitchener St, North Beach. Mass to help those who never had the chance to name or to grieve the loss of a baby. Mothers, fathers, siblings, grandparents and other interested persons are invited. Tea afterwards. Enq: Judy or Veronica 9447 4144.

SATURDAY, 24 SEPTEMBER

“Be Still In His Presence” Christian Program 10-11.30am at Anglican Church hall (behind Parish), 195 Lesmurdie rd, Lesmurdie. Monthly meetings includes praise and worship, silent reflection, lectio divina, small group sharing and a cuppa at the end. Enrich your faith journey. Enq: Lynne 9293 3848 or 0435 252 941

SATURDAY, 29 OCTOBER

Mercedes College Perth - graduating class of 1990 reunion 7.30pm Rosie O’Grady’s, Northbridge, cnr James and Milligan Sts. Enq: kathleen.bryce@yahoo. com.au.

FRIDAY, 30 SEPTEMBER TO SUNDAY, 2 OCTOBER

‘Firm in the Faith’ CYM Young Adult retreat ‘Firm in the Faith’ CYM Young Adult retreat Awesome retreat which is based on the theme of WYD11 “Planted and built up in Christ, Firm in the Faith’ (Col 2:7). Weekend of fun, activities, music and spiritual talks from fantastic speakers. Retreat cost $80. Ends lunch time on Sunday. Download registration forms: cym.com.au. Enq: admin@ cym.com.au or 9422 7912

SATURDAY, 1 OCTOBER

Day with Mary 9-5pm at St Catherine of Siena Parish, 3 Fraser St, Gingin. 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 Our Lady, Rosaries and Stations of the Cross. BYO lunch. Bus contact: Nita 9367 1366. Enq: Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate 9250 8286.

SUNDAY, 16 OCTOBER

Lord of the Harvest Parish - 50th Anniversary

10:30am at St Michael’s Parish, Lindsay St, Beacon. Begins with Mass, followed by lunch at Beacon Country Club. All past and present parishioners and ex-locals invited. RSPV and Enq: Michelle 9686 6056 or bingarra@bigpond.com.

SATURDAY, 8 OCTOBER

Annual Mass at Grotto

10.30am at Richard Priestly’s farm, Wariin Rd, Wooroloo. Please bring chair and picnic. BBQ meat at no cost. Farm is located 2.2kms from corner of Wariin Rd. Allow 45min from Midland. Enq: Richard 9573 1247 or 0428 502 74

MONDAY, 9 JANUARY TO MONDAY, 16 JANUARY 2012

Summer school

The Royal School of Church Music in Australia (RSCM) will be hosting a summer school for all denominations next year. The programme will include workshops for church musicians and singers to help them inspire their congregations towards a more enjoyable and meaningful participation in Church liturgy. Enrolments are now open and interested parties can find out more by going to www.rscmaustralia.org.au.

SATURDAY, 25 FEBRUARY 2012

A reunion for Holy Cross Primary School, Kensington

Any ex-students or family members, please contact Julie Bowles (nee O’Hara) on 9397 0638 or email jules7@iinet.net.au.

REGULAR EVENTS

EVERY SUNDAY

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.

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 the church and shrine open daily between 9am-5pm. Enq Sacri 9447 3292.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY

Divine Mercy chaplet and healing prayer

3pm at Santa Clara Church, 72 Palmerston St, Bentley. Includes adoration and individual prayer for healing. Spiritual leader Fr Francisco. All welcome. Enq: Fr Francisco 9458 2944.

Panorama Editorial Policy

The Record reserves the

to decline or edit any

submitted for publication in Panorama. Deadline: 11am every Monday

Divine Mercy

1.30pm at St Francis Xavier Parish, 25 Windsor St, East Perth. Fr Alphonsus. Includes exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Reconciliation, holy rosary, and Divine Mercy prayers. Followed by benediction and veneration of first class relics of St Faustina Kowalska. Enq: John 9457 7771.

St Mary’s Cathedral youth group –fellowship with pizza

5pm at 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.

EVERY SECOND SUNDAY

Healing hour for the sick

6pm at St Lawrence Parish, 392 Albert St, Balcatta. Begins with Mass, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and prayers. Enq: Fr Irek 9344 7066 or ww.stlawrence.org.au.

EVERY THIRD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

Prayer in style of Taize during September

7-8pm at Sisters of St Joseph’s Chapel, 16 York St, South Perth. Chapel doors open at 6.30pm. Everyone welcome to come along for prayer, using songs from Taize in the stillness of a candlelit chapel. Mary MacKillop merchandise and books for sale in the Mary MacKillop Centre. Enq: Sr Maree Riddler 0414 683 926. 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 everyday life. Afternoon tea. Enq: Secretary 9457 5758.

EVERY FOURTH SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

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.

EVERY MONDAY

Evening adoration and Mass

7pm, 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 9384 0598, claremont@perthcatholic.org.au.

EVERY TUESDAY

Bible teaching with a difference

7.30pm at St Joachim’s Parish hall, Victoria Park. Exciting revelations with meaningful applications that will change your life. Bring Bible, a notebook and a friend. Enq: Jan 9284 1662.

Novena to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal

6pm at the Pater Noster Church, Marmion and Evershed Sts, Myaree. Mass at 5.30pm followed by benediction. Enq: John 0408 952 194.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

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: 0423 907 869 or hsofperth@gmail.com.

Holy hour at Catholic Youth Ministry

6pm at 40A Mary St, Highgate, Catholic Pastoral Centre. 5.30pm Mass followed by $5 fellowship supper. Enq: Stefania 9422 7912 or www.cym. com.au.

Bible study at Cathedral

6.15pm at 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.

Holy Hour - Catholic Youth Ministry

5.30 at Catholic Pastoral Centre, 40A Mary St, Highgate. Begins with Mass; 6.30pm Holy Hour of Adoration, followed by $5 supper and fellowship. Enq: cym.com.au or 9422 7912.

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.

SECOND WEDNESDAY OF MONTH

Chaplets of the Divine Mercy 7.30pm at St Thomas More Catholic Parish, Dean Rd, Bateman. A beautiful, prayerful, sung devotion accompanied by exposition and followed by benediction. Enq: George 9310 9493 or 9325 2010 (w).

EVERY THURSDAY

Divine Mercy 11am at Sts 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.

FIRST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH

Prayer in style of Taize

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. Taize info: www.taize.fr Enq: Secretary 9448 488 or 9448 4457.

FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH

Communion reparation all-night vigil

7pm-1.30am at two different locations: Corpus Christi Parish, Lochee St, Mosman Park and St Gerard Majella Parish, cnr Ranveswood Dr and Majella Rd, Westminster (Mirrabooka). In reparation for the outrages committed against the sacred hearts of Jesus and Mary. Enq: (Mosman Park) Vicky 0400 282 357 and Fr Giosue 9349 2315 or John 9344 2609.

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: Justin 9341 8082.

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.

Catholic Faith Renewal Evening

7.30pm at Sts John and Paul Parish, Pinetree Gully Rd, Willetton. Songs of praise, sharing by a priest followed by thanksgiving Mass and light refreshments afterwards. All welcome to attend and bring your family and friends. Enq: Kathy 9295 0913, Ann: 0412 166 164 or catholicfaithrenewal@gmail.com.

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.

EVERY FIRST SATURDAY

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 FOURTH SATURDAY

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 92967591 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 922 11247 or 9417 3267 (w).

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.

St Cecilia’s Chapel 3/24 Juna Drive, Malaga. Mass of the day: Monday 6.45am. Vigil Masses: Mon-Fri 4.45pm. Confessions by appointment. Closed on public holidays. Enq: Fr David 9376 1734.

Deadline: 11am Monday

RELIGIOUS PRODUCTS

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.

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

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.

WEIGHT LOSS

LOSE WEIGHT safely. Ongoing follow-up. Michael 0412 518 318.

SETTLEMENTS

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.

TRADE SERVICES

BRENDAN HANDYMAN

SERVICES Home, building maintenance, repairs and renovations. NOR. Ph 0427 539 588.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Your handyperson. No job too small. SOR. Jim 0413 309 821.

BRICK RE-POINTING Ph Nigel 9242 2952.

PERROTT PAINTING Pty Ltd

For all your residential, commercial painting requirements. Ph Tom Perrott 9444 1200.

PICASSO PAINTING Top service. Ph 0419 915 836, fax 9345 0505.

FURNITURE REMOVAL

ALL AREAS. Competitive rates. Mike Murphy Ph 0416 226 434.

ACCOMMODATION

HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION

ESPERANCE 3 bedroom house f/furnished Ph 08 9076 5083.

LAWN MOWING

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.

BOOK BINDING

NEW BOOK BINDING, General Book Repairs; Rebinding; New Ribbons; Old Leather Bindings Restored.Tydewi Bindery 0422 968 572.

TAX SERVICE

Quality tax returns prepared by registered tax agent with over 35 years’ experience. Call Tony Marchei on 0412 055 184 for appt. AXXO Accounting & Management, Unit 20/222 Walter Rd, Morley.

ACROSS

4 Wife of the prophet Hosea

9 Son of Abraham

10 “Let us make man in our ___” (Gen 1:26)

11 OT prophetic book

12 Church days

13 Some houses

14 ___ Being

17 Commandment that forbids bearing false witness

19 Ezra read this to the people (with “The”) (Neh 8:2–3)

21 “…let them deny themselves and take up their cross ___ and follow me” (Lk 9:23)

22 “The ___ of one crying in the wilderness” (Lk 3:4)

23 ___ pro nobis

25 Catholic United States Supreme Court justice, Sherman ___

26 The Feast of Corpus ___

29 Genesis event

31 Country in which Mother Teresa founded her order

33 “…be ___

34

5

7

15

18

Cor 9:7)

20 “…the fish of the sea and the birds of the ___” (Gen 1:26)

23 The Diocese of Thunder Bay is here

24 Server

27 One of the prophets

28 Pope St ___

30 “…to the ___ of the earth” (Acts 1:8)

31 Doctrines

32 Catholic Surrealist painter

The

Shadow of his Wings

Translated

by

Benedict Leutenegger

RRP $25

Karl was a reluctant soldier, if a loyal one, a German patriot but anti-Nazi. Though he used it to threaten, he never fired his gun to kill another man in all the five years he spent with the German forces. He had been studying philosophy in preparation for the priesthood at the Franciscan seminary at Fulda when he was drafted. His one desire was to spend his life as a missionary in Japan. The passage to fulfilment of that dream was fraught with difficulties almost impossible to comprehend. When, late in the War, he was tranferred with the German forces to Italy he obtained, in bizarre circumstances, episcopal permission to bring the dying the consolation of the Blessed Sacrament. He was to carry sacred hosts until his arrest by the Allies in 1944.

Fr Goldmann’s autobiography has been translated from the German by Benedict Leutenegger and re-published in a new edition.

Render unto Caesar

Charles Chaput

RRP $22

Few topics in recent years have ignited as much public debate as the balance between religion and politics. Does religious thought have any place in political discourse? Do religious believers have the right to turn their values into political action? What does it truly mean to have a separation of Church and state? The very heart of these important questions is addressed here by one of the leading voices on the topic, Charles Chaput, Archbishop of Denver.

The One-minute Apologist

Dave Armstrong

RRP $18.95

Fast answers to Anti-Catholic claims! If you’re looking for solid answers to common Protestant challenges but don’t have lots of time, then reach for The OneMinute Apologist. Renowned Catholic apologist Dave Armstrong (author of A Biblical Defense of Catholicism and The Catholic Verses) has assembled over 60 of the claims and arguments Protestants (of all stripes) most frequently level against the Church. Drawing on a lifetime of study - in Scripture, history, and the works of Catholic and Protestant theologians - he delivers the essential Catholic replies to each claim, packaged for you in a compact and uniquely usable format.

Women, Sex, and the Church A Case for Catholic Teaching

Edited by Erika Bachiochi RRP $55

The contributors to Women, Sex, and the Church challenge the common misconception that Catholic teachings are antiwomen and anti-sex. Instead, these women explore precisely how controversial teachings on abortion, sex, marriage, contraception and reproductive technologies evidence the Church’s love of women. Timely issues of the priesthood, balancing work and family, and the intersection of Catholic sexual and social ethics are also discussed.The contributors to this text rely on biological, sociological, and medical evidence, combined with personal anecdotes and experience, to defend difficult Church teaching— all from a pro-woman perspective.

Telephone: 9220 5901

Email: bookshop@therecord.com.au

Address: 21 Victoria Square, Perth 6000