The Record Newspaper - 11 September 2013

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Millions around the world respond to Pope’s call for prayer, penance for Syria - Page 13

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Hundreds turn out as Kelmscott parish celebrates its new Church of the Good Shepherd

Gathered around Him

As parishioners, acolytes and clergy look on, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB censes the Blessed Sacrament after it has been reserved in the new tabernacle in the new Good Shepherd Parish Church in Kelmscott. Archbishop Costelloe consecrated the Church last Sunday, opening a new chapter in a story that began 50 years ago in 1963. Reports - Pages 9-12 PHOTO: PETER ROSENGREN

Incoming PM wishes he could make Sunday Mass more often

By Robert Hiini AUSTRALIA’S incoming Prime Minister Tony Abbott says his Catholic faith does not determine his politics in any way.

Mr Abbott spoke frankly about the role of faith in his life to journalist Annabel Crabb on the ABC’s light entertainment program Kitchen Cabinet on September 4.

The purpose of religious faith, Mr Abbott said, was to “assure people that it’s not entirely meaningless” and that “regardless of what happens, there will be some solace and comfort at some point”.

“I’m a pretty traditional Catholic, Annabel,” Mr Abbot said.

“I’m not an evangelical, a charismatic Christian, I’m not. I try to attend Mass. I certainly don’t get there every Sunday any more, I wish I did, but I don’t.

“Faith has certainly helped to shape my life but it doesn’t in any way determine my politics.”

In a pluralist democracy, there are numerous passionately-held views, he said, describing as “bizarre” the idea that anyone could make those private views mandatory.

“This is why I think that it is essential that someone of faith

understands that while faith is a splendid thing in private life it can often be quite a misleading guide in public life,” he said.

Mr Abbott also provided intimate insight into his discernment

others”. In his mid-20s, he thought the best way he could do that was to become a priest.

“I discovered pretty soon that I was a bit of a square peg in a round hole at the seminary. I persisted

In school the Jesuits instilled in him the idea that everyone was called to be a ‘man for others’... as a 29-year-old, fourth-year seminarian, that he was not cut out for the priesthood.

During his schooling, the Jesuits had instilled him the idea that everyone was called to be “a man for

nevertheless for quite some time until eventually working out, I’m afraid I just didn’t have what it took to be an effective priest so I gave it away, probably to the great relief of the-then Archbishop of Sydney,”

Mr Abbott said. Asked if there was a particular moment of realisation, he nominated a discussion with a friend who told him he would not be able to make a planned catch-up the following week because he had to travel to the UK to sign a 1.5 billion pound deal.

“I was 29-years-old. I’d been the president of the [Student Representative Council] at Sydney University. I had degrees in economics and law. I’d been a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford.

“I thought, if he’s doing something like that, I am wasting my Continued on Page 5

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Morley celebrates unity in diversity

Round-Up JUANITA SHEPHERD

OP who will be presenting a talk on Jesus’ Vocation. There are single sessions available or multiple talks.

For more information or to register email wavnsm@gmail.com.

Migrant and Refugee Sunday celebration

Be inspired by the relics of God’s champions

On August 25 Infant Jesus parish in Morley celebrated the anniversary of the dedication of their church with a multicultural themed Mass and lunch, marking Migrant and Refugee Sunday. Parishioners were invited to come dressed in national costume and the prayers and hymns were read and sung in different languages, as well as the Lord’s prayer in Aramaic and English.

Parish priest Fr Sunny Abraham OCD celebrated the Mass with Fr Leo M Spicer OSM and Fr Tadgh Tierney OCD concelebrating. More than 60 children joined in the entrance procession, carrying flags from all the 130 nations that make up the culture of the parish. After the Mass about 300 people shared a meal with dishes from many different cultures.

It truly was a celebration of unity in diversity.

The Saints and Sacred Relics Apostolate (SSRA) Perth was established in April 2011 under the approval of Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey, and aims to re-introduce the traditional Catholic practice of honouring the Saints through the veneration of their Sacred Relics, an ancient and venerable practice deeply rooted in the Church’s history and traditions.

SSRA invites interested parties, leaders of religious communities, and the laity and lay associations to organise relic visitations to parishes and communities. SSRA have available authentic mostly first class relics, including St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, St Padre Pio, St Anthony of Padua, St Therese of Lisieux, St Maximillian Kolbe, St Simon Stock and Blessed Pope John Paul II. The SSRA aspires to supply the faithful with as much background information as possible, including theological and scriptural basis, Church teachings and traditions, relating to the Sacred Relics of the Saints and their veneration, together with stories of miracles and healings God has performed through the Sacred Relics of his Saints. For more information and further enquires contact Giovanny on 0478 201 092 or email ssra-perth@catholic.org.

Day of prayer at Morley for St Padre Pio’s feast Padre Pio, born on May 25, 1887 in Pietrelcina, a small country town in Southern Italy, became a priest in 1910. He lived a life of deep piety and faith and battled ill health and considerable physical pain. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1999 and canonised in 2002. He is the patron saint for adolescents and civil defence volunteers. Although his feast day is September 23, Infant Jesus parish in Morley will celebrate the feast day of St Padre Pio on September 26 with Holy Mass at 7pm with Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey as the main celebrant.

About 300 parishioners of Infant Jesus parish in Morley shared a multicultural lunch together on August 25, Migrant and Refugee Sunday, after a special Mass to mark the occasion. The parish is home to Catholics from 130 different nations.

Confessions will also be available in English and Italian, as well as Adoration, during which the rosary and Divine Mercy chaplet will be prayed. Benediction will conclude the day. For further enquires call 6278 1540.

Gosnells a generous contributer to Caritas Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament parish in Gosnells raised a total of $8,129.05 for Caritas Australia this year. Catholics all over Australia contributed a total

of $11 million and the Archdiocese of Perth contributed $1.3 million towards the total figure. Caritas is an international and development organisation of the Catholic Church in Australia which aims to work with the poor, to help people in becoming self-sufficient, and to deliver long-term development programs. Assistance is given to anyone regardless of religion, ethnicity and political beliefs. Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament was a vital part of the team effort to empower those most vulnerable to poverty and injustice and to become architects of their own development.

For more information about the work

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editor@therecord.com.au

Accounts accounts@therecord.com.au Journalists Mark Reidy m.reidy@therecord.com.au Robert Hiini r.hiini@therecord.com.au Matthew Biddle m.biddle@therecord.com.au Juanita Shepherd j.shepherd@therecord.com.au Advertising/Production Mat De Sousa

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Classifieds/Panoramas/Subscriptions Helen Crosby

A Frenchman drawn to the missions, John Gabriel in 1818 joined the Congregation of the Mission, whose members are called Lazarists or Vincentians. Ordained in 1826, he was assigned to seminary formation work in France. In 1835, he finally was sent to Macao, to learn Chinese, then to Hunan. For two years, he rescued abandoned children and taught them Christianity. In 1839 in Hupeh, persecution forced missionaries into hiding; John Gabriel was turned in by a recent convert. Paraded before bureaucrats and mandarins, he would not betray other missionaries or trample the cross. He was tortured at least 20 times before being strangled on a cross a year after his arrest. This martyr was canonized in 1996.

Double Canonisation

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John XXIII and John Paul II

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Contributors Debbie Warrier Barbara Harris Bernard Toutounji

Thursday 19th - Green ST JANUARIUS, BISHOP, MARTYR (O) 1st Reading: 1 Tim 4:12-16

Be an example Responsorial Ps 110:7-10 Psalm: God’s name holy

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Wednesday 18th - Green 1st Reading: 1 Tim 3:14-16

Deep mystery Responsorial Ps 110:1-6 Psalm: Thank the Lord Gospel Reading: Lk 7:31-35

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Tuesday 17th - Green ST ROBERT BELLARMINE, BISHOP, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH (O) 1st Reading: 1 Tim 3:1-13

Bishops and deacons Responsorial Ps 100:1-3,5-6 Psalm: Way of perfection Gospel Reading: Lk 7:11-17

Jesus felt sorry

Witness this historical event in Rome! Flightworld has available hotel accommodation for you to join Catholics worldwide travelling to the Vatican City for the double canonisation ceremony of John Paul II & John XXIII. Places are limited... register your interest now to join this group!

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Peter Rosengren

The Western Australian Vocations Network, is hosting the Catholic Vocations Ministry Australia Biennal Conference at the St John of God Retreat Centre in Shoalwater on September 26. The conference will include a number of guest speakers including Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB who is presenting a lecture on Religious Life in the Age of the Laity and Sr Margaret Scharf

Monday 16th - Red ST CORNELIUS, POPE, AND CYPRIAN, BISHOP, MARTYRS (M) 1st Reading: 1 Tim 2:1-8

Pray for everyone Responsorial Ps 27:2,7-9 Psalm: My heart rejoices Gospel Reading: Lk 7:1-10

Give the word

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Gospel Reading: Lk 7:36-50

Saving faith Friday 20th - Red STS ANDREW KIM TAEGON, PRIEST, MARTYR, AND PAUL CHONG HA-SANG AND COMPANIONS, MARTYRS (M) 1st Reading: 1 Tim 6:2-12

Fight the good fight Responsorial Ps 48 Psalm: Why should I fear?

Gospel Reading: Lk 8:1-3

Proclaim the Good News Saturday 21st - Red ST MATTHEW, APOSTLE, EVANGELIST (FEAST) 1st Reading: Eph 4:1-7, 11-13

Share of grace Responsorial Ps 18:2-5 Psalm: The glory of God Gospel Reading: Mt 9:9-13 He followed Jesus Sunday 22nd - Green 25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 1st Reading: Am 8:4-7

Exploiting the poor Responsorial Ps 112:1-2,4-8 Psalm: God raises the poor 2nd Reading: 1 Tim 2:1-8

Christ as ransom Gospel Reading: Lk 16:1-13

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Archbishop Clune joins fellow bishops in crypt

By Matthew Biddle THE REMAINS of all seven deceased Bishops and Archbishops of Perth are now in the crypt of St Mary’s Cathedral.

About 250 people gathered at St Mary’s Cathedral on September 3 for a Mass celebrating the reinterment of the remains of the first Archbishop of Perth, Patrick Joseph Clune CSsR. Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB celebrated the Mass, with the help of Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey and Bishop Donald Sproxton.

They were joined by Fr Edmond Nixon CSsR, the Vicar-General Fr Peter Whitely and Fr Christopher Dowd, the official Clune biographer.

Several members of the Clune family and members of the Redemptorist Order were also in attendance.

At the commencement of the Mass, the ossuary containing Archbishop Clune’s remains was carried to the altar in procession.

Two pipers from Trinity College, Peter Fitzgerald and Ben Walsh, led the procession, and more than 50 priests of the Archdiocese of Perth followed.

Archbishop Costelloe, who was using Archbishop Clune’s crozier, thanked the Redemptorists for honouring the request of the Clune family to have their ancestor’s body exhumed and reinterred.

“For the Clune family, for the Redemptorist family and for the Archdiocesan family, this is a very special occasion,” he said.

During his homily, the Archbishop explained the significance of the decision to move Archbishop Clune’s remains from the Redemptorist site to the Cathedral crypt.

It was particularly fitting, he said, that the reinterment occur just a few days after the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Perth as an Archdiocese, as it was Archbishop Clune who was largely responsible for prompting Rome to make the decision back in 1913.

The Irish-born Archbishop also laid the foundation stone for St Mary’s Cathedral in 1926.

Archbishop Costelloe told the congregation his predecessor was remembered for being a “happy man”.

“He was warm, welcoming, affable and approachable,” he said.

“His impact on the life of the Archdiocese of Perth in the 25 years of his episcopate is remarkable.

“He was, as the Redemptorist Constitutions express it, a man who was “strong in faith, rejoicing in hope, burning with charity, on fire with zeal, humble in heart and persevering in prayer”.”

Prior to the Mass, the ossuary containing Archbishop Clune’s remains was displayed in St John’s Pro-Cathedral.

It was the first time the ProCathedral has opened its doors to the public since it was closed for renovations in October 2012.

The body of Archbishop Clune has been buried at the Karrakatta cemetery alongside his fellow

He was strong in faith, rejoicing in hope, burning with charity, on fire with zeal, humble in heart and persevering in prayer.

Redemptorists since his death in 1935.

In December 2012 the North Perth Redemptorists gave their approval for the exhumation and reinterment.

Archbishop Clune now joins Bishops John Brady, Martin Griver and Matthew Gibney, as well as Archbishops Redmond Prendiville, Launcelot Goody and William Foley in the Cathedral crypt.

Above, the ossuary containing Archbishop Clune’s remains is displayed in St John’s Pro-Cathedral, before being taken in procession to St Mary’s Cathedral for the re-interment Mass.

PHOTOS: DAVID NICOLSON

Left, a large number of Archdiocesan priests were present for the occasion, including several Redemptorist priests.

PHOTOS: DAVID NICOLSON

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Hours of power and prayer for good government

By Matthew Biddle MORE than 1700 hours of rosaries were pledged as part of the annual rosary bouquet in honour of Our Lady’s birthday on September 8.

Fifty-one WA parishes, three Victorian parishes, and several USA parishes contributed to the rosary tally. The rosary bouquet consists of rosaries prayed continuously for the 48-hour period before Our Lady’s birthday on September 8.

Each rosary is offered without any private intentions, and is solely offered as a gift to Mary.

In total, 1,995 people committed to praying a rosary, in addition to students from seven schools.

Several parishes, as well as the Indonesian Catholic Community, each committed to praying rosaries throughout the 48 hours. About 150 people gathered at St Joachim’s

in Victoria Park on September 7 to mark the 25th anniversary of the event. A scroll containing the details of the pledged rosaries was presented to Fr Paul Carey SSC during the offertory procession.

During his homily, the Columban priest said it was important to offer

“We should respond to violence, conflict and war with forgiveness and love.” prayers for good government.

“The only way this government is going to be a source of justice and peace is if each individual member turns to God and asks the Holy Spirit to lead this country,” he said.

“That is the only hope for

Australia, and we need to pray for this as we cast our vote.”

Fr Carey read Pope Francis’ letter proclaiming a World Day of Fasting and Prayer, which coincided with the event. “This is God’s way. He does not want us to take up arms, but he wants us to follow Mary and pray… as you have been doing for 25 years,” he said.

Fr Carey said we should strive to respond to violence, conflict and war with forgiveness and love.

“Help us, Mary to overcome this most difficult moment and to dedicate ourselves each day to building, in every situation, an authentic culture of peace,” he prayed at the conclusion of his homily. The event began in 1988 in the central wheat belt area of WA, before quickly spreading to Perth parishes and schools. Last year more than 1600 hours of rosaries were pledged.

Fr Paul Carey SSC, centre, joins fellow Catholics in celebrating another successful Rosary Bouquet campaign on Our Lady’s Birthday, September 8.

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Money for frontline of dementia care

By Matthew Biddle SOUTHERN Cross Care (SCC) has been awarded a Lotterywest grant of more than $260,000 to further enhance their aged care facilities.

The Minister for Local G ove r n m e nt , C om mu n it y Services, Youth, and Seniors and Volunteering Tony Simpson made the announcement at Donovan House Respite Centre in Forrestfield on September 4.

The funding will be used to assist seven facilities operated by SCC, most of which focus on caring for people with dementia.

SCC will now be able to purchase equipment including kitchenware, art supplies and musical instruments to aid in its care for residents and clients with dementia.

Spokesperson for SCC Inga Norgrove said the funding boost had come at a perfect time.

“As a not for profit organisation, ongoing funding is important to help us to continue to expand our services, particularly in the area of dementia care,” she said.

“There is certainly a growing demand for dementia services and these services require specialist care and specifically designed facilities which are costly.”

Additionally, SCC’s facility in Broome will receive a new commuter bus with a wheelchair hoist, allowing staff to transport residents more easily.

Ms Norgrove said the bus would be a major help to the carers in Broome.

“This new bus will allow staff to be self-sufficient in transporting residents to planned and routine activities, medical and specialist appointments,” she said.

“It will also give residents the ability to participate in social activities and outings in the local community, and allows a greater degree of flexibility and spontaneity in the provision of leisure and recreational activities.”

Donovan House resident Angelo Gava, left, with minister for seniors Anthony Simpson MLA.

PHOTO: SOUTHERN CROSS CARE

Friends congratulate priest on match well-played ON AUGUST 22 a special morning tea was held in the Cathedral Presbytery for Fr Jim Petry who recently celebrated his 90th birthday. Present were Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB and Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey, Bishop Donald Sproxton, Monsignor Michael Keating and many priests who for years played tennis, every Monday, with Fr Jim. The group also played in tournaments of clergy in Geraldton and Busselton. These priests became

very much a support group for each other.

Around 12 Priests still play tennis on Monday mornings and

Fr Tim Foster and many others who have come and gone including religious priests. Some past members of the group played well into their

Fr Jim Petry spoke movingly of his time in the British Army as a chaplain in Korea in the 1950s. other priests are welcome to come.

Among long standing members of this group going back almost fifty years, were Fr Richard Doyle and

late seventies and early eighties.

Jesuit Fr Ferdie Marlow was one of these.

At the morning tea, Mgr Keating

spoke about the long and varied life of Fr Jim. Almost 50 years was spent in the Archdiocese of Perth and the Diocese of Bunbury.

Fr Jim spoke movingly of his time in the British Army as a chaplain in Korea in the 1950s. For this service he was awarded a MBE by the Queen for his wonderful care of the soldiers.

Fr Jim, originally from England, had two brothers who were also priests – one a Jesuit missionary in South America – the other a

canon of the Brentwood diocese in England. Fr Jim had two special farewell Masses at Wilson Parish on July 27 and 28. After ten years there, Fr Jim’s place has been taken by Fr Kevin Cummins.

At all these gatherings, many people showed the respect and love in which Fr Jim has been held in many places.

Through it all and despite the limitations that advancing age has put on his activity, he has retained a keen sense of humour. SUPPLIED

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Farewell to Father and friend STAFF and students of Kolbe Catholic College at Mass on September 6 were sad to farewell Fr George James, then-assistant priest at Our Lady of Lourdes, Rockingham, who recently received another parish appointment.

Fr George had been with the Kolbe community since February.

The staff and students presented him with a candle and a Kolbe towel, offering him their own prayer of blessing: “Fr George, we know that God goes with you. Fr George, you leave us today. May you go with our blessing. We thank you for celebrating Mass with us with such care and reverence,” prayed the students and staff.

“When you meet the poor, the marginalised, the sick and dying, may you recognise Christ present before you. When you experience good times and hard times, when you are happy and when you are sad, may you always know that God walks with you and protects you.

“When you celebrate the Eucharist, may you always remember that we appreciate the care you take with the words of consecration and your gestures, which draw us deeper into the prayer of Christ.

“Fr George, may God bless you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Fr George, we know that God goes with you.”

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Abbott offers thoughts on Catholicism Continued from Page 1

Fr George the farewell gift of a Kolbe Catholic College towell, above, from students. Fr George has half page_Layout 1 7/19/12 1:34 PM James Pagereceives 1 received a new parish posting after serving as assistant priest at Our Lady of Lourdes, Rockingham.

PHOTO: LEANNE JOYCE

time writing 500 word essays on the Desert Fathers and I thought I’ve got to do something that’s a better use of the rest of my life. That was it…. That was the moment.”

Mr Abbott said that he was much more “conscious of shades of grey” than he was 30 years ago but that his underlying values were very similar. He said he hoped he was less judgemental than he was as a young man. “That’s one of the things about growing up. I think most things are understandable if you understand the reason why,” he said. The interview was the second time in as many months Mr Abbott has explicitly addressed the question of religion at length.

On August 6, Mr Abbott addressed a largely-Muslim gathering in Libcombe, telling the crowd that Australia’s ethnic and religious diversity ought to be celebrated, saying he wanted everyone to become “stronger citizens”.

“I want to say to you that I am the sworn enemy... of anyone who seeks to divide Australian from Australian over things that can’t readily be changed. Over class, over gender, over birth place and particularly over faith.

“Our faith is special to us. And we have to respect the specialness of every person’s faith to that person. I believe that a good god smiles on all who sincerely seek the truth. I believe that religious faiths, all religious faiths seek to come to grips with the complexity of the human condition.

“They help us, all of them help us, to come closer to being our best selves and to love and to care for others as we all know in our hearts we should,” Mr Abbott said.

Mercy International Centre 64a Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2 is the original house built by Catherine McAuley to connect those who were rich with those who were poor.

It opened on 24 September 1827. The house and its adjacent building on 23 Herbert Street forms part of Mercy International Association, and is a place of rich heritage and hospitality.

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For more information contact us at +353 1 6618061; Email: bookings@mercyinternational.ie

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A devotion in good health Hundreds gather on Saturday, September 7 at St Jerome’s in Munster to celebrate the feast of Madonna della Salute (Our Lady of Health) with Mass, procession and benediction.

Left and Top: Following Mass, the congregation processed with the statue of Madonna della Salute (Our Lady of Health) through the carpark at St Jerome’s in Spearwood. Above: One of the organisers, Lina Guida, prays the rosary. PHOTOS: MAT DE SOUSA

Above and Left: Masses of people celebrating the feast of Madonna della Salute (Our Lady of Health) process behind banners of their devotion. Far Left: The main celebrant Fr Leo M Spicer OSM, who also gave the homily, said Mass in Italian.

Left: Two members of the congregation carry down the wine and hosts during the offetory. Above: Devotees arrive early to pray the Holy Rosary before Mass.

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Left, Wagga Wagga Bishop Gerard Hanna blesses the coffin of his predecessor, Bishop William Brennan, above, who founded one of the most succesful seminaries in the country.

PHOTOS: DOMINIC BYRNE

Bishop of conviction goes to the Lord

By Matthew Biddle ST MICHAEL’S Cathedral in Wagga Wagga was filled to capacity on September 6 at the funeral Mass for former bishop of the diocese, William Brennan, who died on August 31.

Fourteen other bishops from around Australia concelebrated the Mass, including Parramatta’s Bishop Anthony Fisher OP and Archbishop of Sydney, Cardinal George Pell.

During his homily, Bishop of Wagga Wagga Gerard Hanna said his predecessor had finally been released from his suffering.

“The last 12 years of his life speak of how these bodies of ours can become a place of restriction and confinement,” he said.

“Death through the eyes of faith, can be seen as the unloosing of the shackles, the end of bondage.”

Bishop Hanna, who succeeded Bishop Brennan in 2002, said Bishop Brennan was a faithful disciple of Christ.

“This apostle was not a passive spectator in the arena of life, he was a vigorous participant, throwing himself into every activity with all his soul” he said.

“A good and committed life in an indifferent world leads to conflict. Our brother William knew that conflict. He bore in his being the commitment and the courage to face it.”

Bishop Hanna said the Wagga Wagga Catholic community was forever indebted to the life and example of Bishop Brennan.

“He was indeed a valiant man and a faithful soldier of the cross,” he said.

“William Brennan stood for decency and justice; he promoted progress in the community and through the wider Church.

“He filled with distinction whatever post the Church, national and local, asked him to serve.”

A letter from Pope Francis was also read to the congregation, in which the Holy Father conveyed his condolences and gave thanks to God for Bishop Brennan’s life and for his priestly and episcopal ministry.

William John Brennan was born at Arncliffe in NSW on February

16, 1938, and was the second eldest in a family of six.

He was ordained on December 21, 1960 and served in a variety of roles before his appointment as the fourth Bishop of Wagga Wagga on January 16, 1984.

Sisters of the Poor’s nursing home in Randwick.

He is perhaps best remembered for founding the diocesan seminary of St John Vianney College in Wagga Wagga, which opened in 1992. After requiring an expan-

A good and committed life in an indifferent world leads to conflict. Our brother William knew that conflict. He bore the courage to face it.

Bishop Brennan served the NSW diocese for almost 20 years, until a brain aneurysm in 2001 forced his retirement in 2002.

For the next 11 years Bishop Brennan battled illness. He was aged 75 when he died at the Little

sion of its accommodation twice, the seminary has operated at full capacity for several years.

The Wagga Wagga diocese now has the highest priest-to-people ratio in Australia, as well as the youngest clergy.

Friends, family and confreres turned out in large numbers to pray for the soul of Bishop William Brennan.

PHOTOS: DOMINIC BYRNE

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Like Syria, Congos’ suffering increases daily A BISHOP from eastern Congo said people in the area continue to suffer from an ongoing government-rebel conflict, and he hoped pressure from the international community would help relieve the situation.

Bishop Willy Ngumbi Ngengele of Kindu, Congo, told Catholic News Service in Nairobi that people in and around North Kivu and Goma were the worst hit.

“People there suffer from lack of food, shelter and clothes.” he said.

He said the Church’s aid agency, Caritas Internationalis, was helping victims, “and we thank God for this.”

The Bishop said he hoped current concern expressed by the international community would help

bring change. He said he believed peace negotiations and not guns would help bring about peace.

Bishop Ngumbi spoke to CNS before members of the International

2.6 million Congolese are estimated to have been internally displaced by fighting.

Conference on the Great Lakes Region met with UN officials in Kampala, Uganda, on September 5, to discuss the situation in Congo.

In late August, Congolese troops, backed by a special UN force,

launched a fresh assault against the M23 movement in North Kivu.

After the meeting, rebel representatives agreed to meet with government leaders in Uganda.

In the past, conflict in eastern Congo – known for fertile lands and valuable minerals – has dragged regional powers into the fighting, with both Rwanda and Uganda accused of backing the M23, claims they deny. Angola, Namibia and Zimbabwe have backed the government.

According to the United Nations, in the past year, fighting has displaced more than 100,000 people, bringing the total of internally displaced Congolese to 2.6 million.

The UN said 6.4 million need food and emergency aid.

- CNS

Civilians displaced by recent fighting between the Congolese army and M23 rebels walk along a road on September 2 in Kibati village, Congo. PHOTO: CNS

Diplomat to be Pope’s right hand man A VETERAN diplomat, the Vatican’s new Secretary of State, plans to put the Church’s vast global diplomatic network into high gear as champions for peace.

Archbishop Pietro Parolin said Pope Francis has already injected a new impetus into the Vatican’s Secretariat of State structure and given a new push for Church-led diplomacy.

The Archbishop, who is currently the papal nuncio to Venezuela, will start his new role on October 15.

In a September 6 interview with the Venezuelan Catholic newspaper, Diario Catolico, Archbishop Parolin said, “The Pope’s initiatives have given the secretary of state an impetus and have also created a new diplomatic momentum.”

When asked if he would be spearheading a new diplomatic offensive for peace, he noted that it was a complicated question but said, “Yes, I hope that we can recoup” that drive.

“We have this great advantage in respect to other churches, to other religions: We can count on an international institutional presence through diplomacy,” he said.

Archbishop Parolin said the Vatican has to take advantage of its vast network of papal nuncios around the world and all the contacts it has with international organisations.

“They are precious instruments that can be used to help the world,” he said.

He emphasised, however, that the Vatican’s efforts are not always publicised, but often happen quietly behind the scenes.

“I wouldn’t like a diplomacy that is on the front pages, but a diplomacy that is more effective,” he said.

“We are not looking for, I believe, popularity. In all honesty, none of us wants it without an effect” that is positive.

The archbishop said the whole

Italian Archbishop Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s newly appointed Secretary of State, gestures during an interview on September 4 in Caracas, Venezuela. Archbishop Parolin will succeed Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. PHOTO: JORGE SILVA, REUTERS

reason for the existence of the Vatican’s diplomatic organisation “is the quest for peace.”

“If the Holy See’s diplomatic efforts have had such importance and so much consensus around the world, now and in the past, it’s due to the fact that it goes above

and beyond national interests” and pushes for “a vision of the wellbeing of all humanity,” he said.

Archbishop Parolin, who has nearly 30 years’ diplomatic experience, said today’s geopolitical landscape has gone from a world in which nations were clearly aligned

into a few cohesive “blocs” to a world of widely divergent powers, some of which have no real national identity. Instead of an era of greater unity and cohesiveness after the fall of the Berlin Wall, “the whole problem of terrorism was unleashed,” he said. Now the new “wall to knock

down is understanding how to bring all these different powers to an agreement and work together for the well-being of everyone,” he said, where differences are turned into a source of collaboration, not division.

He said the role of the Vatican’s secretary of state is to be a focal point of objectivity and universal values in a sea of relativistic selfinterests.

Because the world is so much more complex, he said the secretary of state’s role “must be to re-invent” the never-changing and universal goal of peace and human rights in varying and widely diverse contexts. “One must step away from of this plague of relativism” and harmonize differences in a new way, he said.

“If there is no objective truth in which we all recognize ourselves it will be much more difficult to find things in common,” he said.

“This common ground is the dignity of the human person in all his dimensions,” including the transcendent, the spiritual, social and political, and that all people are created in the likeness and image of God. Nowhere is this more important right now than in the Middle East, he said in a Sept 6 interview with his hometown Catholic newspaper, “La Voce dei Berici.”

“The stability of the world is at stake, (as well as) the present and future coexistence of various religions and major ethnic groups,” he said. “Either we head toward a world where we will know how to integrate our differences and turn them into an opportunity for growth or we will head toward total war.”

“It’s not true that the world belongs to the violent, the world is, for the most part, built by good people, and we need to give them a voice” so that dialogue, peace and harmony can reign, he said. - CNS

Marriage the image of Christ’s union with Church

A groom and bride hold hands on their wedding day.

PHOTO: JON HENDRICKS, CNS

THE CATHOLIC Church closely safeguards the sanctity of marriage because it is a reflection of Christ’s union with his bride, the Church, Pope Francis said.

Jesus often uses the imagery of a bridegroom to help people see the nature of his relationship with the Church, the pope said September 6 during his morning Mass in his residence of the Domus Sanctae Marthae.

“I think this is exactly the most profound reason why the Church safeguards the sacrament of Marriage so much and calls it the great sacrament, because it is precisely the image of the union of Christ with the Church.”

Another parallel between a nuptial banquet and the faith is that Christians are called to be joyful guests gathered together, the pope

Talking of himself, Jesus often uses the imagery of a bridegroom. said. While there will be great trials and moments of pain in life, “a Christian is fundamentally joyful,” he said, because everyone is invited to a great celebration: “the nuptials of Jesus with the Church.”

Jesus is also “the head of the body of the Church,” and in him all things are reconciled, the pope said, referring to the day’s reading from the Letter of St. Paul to the Colossians, “In him were created all things.” Jesus is to be recognized as “the one and only,” who “is always faithful and asks us to be faithful.”

Jesus asks people to experience the joy of celebration, “the joy of being Christian, and he also asks us for totality, that it’s all him.”

“If we have something that isn’t about him, repent, ask forgiveness and keep going,” the pope said.

People cannot serve two masters, he said; a person can either serve God or the world.

- CNS

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THE LORD HAS BEEN

GOOD TO US

Kelmscott parishioners bid a sad farewell to their humble little Church of the Good Shepherd last weekend, but celebrated years of planning and hard work on the part of many as they opened their new parish Church the next day...

Words and photographs: Peter Rosengren

F

rom the very young to the very old, parishioners of Good Shepherd Parish in Kelmscott gathered for the final time last Saturday evening with current and former clergy on their Church’s last official occasion as their parish Church.

Parish Priest Fr Andrew Lotton the driving force behind the building of the new Good Shepherd Church - Assistant Priest Fr Marcello Para Gonzalez, former Parish Priest Fr Lionel Henry SDB (Archbishop Costelloe’s only other fellow Salesian in WA) and Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey led Vespers with a small congregation, some of whom had been in the parish when the first Church was built.

It was a bittersweet occasion as those present effectively farewelled the humble but greatly loved brick and tile Church which has seen countless baptisms, weddings, funerals and masses celebrated within its walls over the decades.

First built in a locality strongly populated with post-War Italian migrants, among others, the first baptisms and weddings celebrated in Good Shepherd were in 1963 50 years before the opening of the new Church.

Among many others present on the evening were parish couple Neville and Wendy Voysey mainstays of the parish community.

Mr Voysey has been a longserving acolyte and was the other driving force behind completion of the new parish Church.

With the relics of three saints on display for veneration in the background, Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey leads Vespers at Good Shepherd Parish Church last Saturday.

The service was attended by the very young through to the very old.

PHOTOS: PETER ROSENGREN

Parishioners come forward after Vespers to venerate the relics of St Don Bosco, founder of the Salesians, St Rose of Venerini, a 17th century educator of poor girls and of legendary Spanish mystic St Teresa of Avila.

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"I think its quite modern and new and it is nice; I like the woodwork, the cross and the pews"

"The church is modern but still very central. By that I mean that the sanctuary feels very close to me and I like it."

-Dylan Pearce

- Clemie Smith

Salesian priest Fr Lionel Henry, who celebrates Mass in the Extraordinary Form at Kelmscott - the new church's altar has reliquaries at its front and rear, acknowledging both forms.

Right, the occasion's special choir enters the new church.

Above, parish priest Fr Andrew Lotton anoints the walls of Kelmscott's new church.

Centre and left, Archbishop Costelloe incenses the Blessed Sacrament in the tabernacle and pours oils on the altar during its dedication.

PHOTOS: ROBERT HIINI

PHOTOS: PETER ROSENGREN

The Good Shepherd Kelmscott

"I was there for the very first Mass at the old church and now... for the very first Mass at the new church; I think it is a wonderful place of worship and a great sense of peace."

"The church is very welcoming to commune with God; each morning I come to church and I will enjoy it, that's how it makes me feel."

Kelmscott's old church was bursting at the seams as the congregation prepared to process into their brand new church last Sunday; a new home for growth - in numbers, and in Christ.

N

- Carla Malin

Above left, Timothy Haydon, pictured with his family, who built the tabernacle stand, ambo and pews. Above, Neville Voysey seals the relics in place.

PHOTOS: P ROSENGREN

O MATTER how beautiful the building, the real Church is the people gathered around Christ, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB told the Catholics of Kelmscott at the dedication of their new church on Sunday, September 8.

The new building, dedicated under the parish’s existing title, the Good Shepherd, was full-to-overflowing with the areas' ethnically and spiritually diverse Catholic population turning out in force for the occasion.

The parish is home to a regular parish congregation, as well as people in the Neocatechumenal Way, and a community that celebrates the Extraordinary Form of the Eucharistic liturgy, known colloquially as the Latin Mass.

People from all three expressions joined together to form a special choir for the event, including students from Good Shepherd Primary School.

The celebration began in the old church - a building that had served the community for some 40 years, with Catholics following the Archbishop and parish priest Fr Andrew Lotton in procession to the locked doors of the new building.

Project manager and longstanding parishioner Neville Voysey was as obviously proud to present the Archbishop with the keys to the building before most of the crowd poured into the building with a sizeable contingent filling the foyer, spilling out into the driveway outside.

In his post-Mass address, Fr Lotton thanked Archbishop Costelloe for his support and all “the workers behind

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB congratulate Good Shepherd, Kelmscott's parish priest Fr Andrew Lotton after Mass.

PHOTO: ROBERT HIINI

the scenes”, and previous parish priests who had gotten the project of building a new church substantially underway, dating back to initial meetings in 2008.

Papua New Guinea where he has been missioning in recent years.

“He would have loved to be here this afternoon with us for the opening

I pray this parish can continue to grow, more and more, into the community Christ is calling it be.

Fr Francis Sundararajan, the previous parish priest, had wanted to attend the occasion, Fr Lotton told the congregation, but had been held up in

of this project on which he, and now I, have worked so hard, over these many years,” Fr Lotton said, describing the church as “a prayerful work of God”

and thanking everyone who had contributed. “I’m very happy," Fr Lotton told The Record after the event. "It’s all a new experience and sometimes you get problems and difficulties and think, “Lord how do we solve this problem” but it’s all come together."

Fr Lotton said the places-of-origin of the elements inside the church reflected the community’s diversity, with the pews, tabernacle stand and ambo having been built by parishioner Timothy Haydon; the tabernacle and lamp coming from Spain; the Stations of the Cross from Italy; and the corpus of the main crucifix from Ecuador.

Archbishop Costelloe congratulated parishioners, thanking Fr Lotton and assistant priest Fr Marcelo Parra Gonzalez for their leadership.

“It’s a great joy and a great privilege for an archbishop to be able to have an opportunity to dedicate and consecrate a new parish church. It’s especially significant for me,” Archbishop Costelloe said.

“In the 1990s, as parish priest of Victoria Park, I was superior of the religious community of the Salesians who had the care of this parish... So, it’s a little bit special to me to come back.

"I hope it still has something of the spirit of St John Bosco whose relics we have enclosed in the altar this afternoon together with the other two saints [St Teresa of Avila and St Rose Venerini].

"My prayer is that this parish can continue to grow more and more into that community of disciples of Jesus that the Lord is calling us to be.”

For more photos, visit www.therecord.com.au.

-Percy Gaspar

Above, Good Shepherd's Fr Andrew Lotton opens the church for the large congregation outside. Right, choir director Phil Chadd at work.

PHOTOS: P ROSENGREN; R HIINI

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A Shy Parish Hero The naturally retiring Angelo Bongiascia has been a part of the Good Shepherd Kelmscott parish since it was first established in the 1960s. He continues to serve the parish faithfully in any way he can, as Juanita Shepherd reports...

Angelo Bongiascia played a pivotal role in helping to build Kelmscott’s original parish church and presbytery in the 1960s, and more than 50 years later, he was at it again, working in the parish grounds for many months as the new parish church took shape. He is one of many original parishioners who attended the opening of the new church on September 8. The migrant, from the village of Sondrio in the Valtellina in far northern Italy, is a legendary character in the parish. Now in his 80s he can work any man in the parish into the ground - and often has.

PHOTO: PETER ROSENGREN

S

EPTEMBER 8, 2013, marked the opening of the new church at Good Shepherd Catholic Parish in Kelmscott.

The highly anticipated event was attended by hundreds of parishioners and clergy including Archbishop Timothy Costelloe, SDB. Angelo Bongiascia, an Italian immigrant who has made Perth his home told The Record about the history of the building of Good Shepherd parish which began almost 50 years ago.

Mr Bongiascia owned the land that was used to build the parish church; his involvement with the parish began in 1960.

“I didn’t sell the land to the church,” Mr Bongiascia said.

At the time there were between 10 and 15 migrant families mainly from Italy and Ireland living in the area; all the families came together and donated the money to the parish to enable it to buy the land.

“The church was built,” Mr Bongiascia said. “My friend Carlo Rozoli helped me build the first altar.”

Good Shepherd Catholic Church opened in 1962, however, when the priest arrived he had no house to live in.

“He was a young priest from Ireland,” Mr Bongiascia said. “He wanted to build a presbytery but we had no land.”

However, Mr Bongiascia managed to secure 1¼ acres of land and the presbytery was built.

Between 1963 and 1964 he worked on the foundation tiles and

groundwork around the presbytery and by the time Fr Brunetti arrived at the parish a few years later the church had a debt of $24,000.

“The ability and capacity of Fr Brunetti and the parishioners cleared the debt,” Mr Bongiascia said.

“Fr Brunetti was very good at begging for money from the people,” Mr Bongiascia said with a laugh. “He managed to get the church some pews because up until then we were using steel chairs.”

Mr Bongiascia and Fr Brunetti shared a close friendship.

Although Mr Bongiascia lived in Serpentine for 17 years on a farm, together with his wife Paola he travelled to Kelmscott for Mass every Saturday evening.

“We couldn’t get down for 6.30pm,” Mr Bongiascia said, “So Fr Brunetti made the time 7pm.”

Fr Brunetti decided to widen the church and he collected signatures from the people to ask the Archbishop for permission to do so.

Although Mr Bongiascia wasn’t so sure about signing the petition, he told Fr Brunetti he would do whatever work was required of him.

“I said to him, “I’ll do the foundations and bring it up to level, are you happy?”” Mr Bongiascia said.

“But Fr said I can’t go yet so I stayed till the brick work and tiles was done, I was willing to help.”

After Fr Brunetti retired, Salesian priests came to Good Shepherd Parish and alterations to the presbytery were made with the help of Mr Bongiascia.

“If anything had to be done I did

it,” he said. The next stage in the history of the parish building was that the Salesians wanted to buy the presbytery.

Fr Wenting called Mr Bongiascia, asking him about buying the presbytery, which was owned by Mr Bongiascia’s friend.

“Norm owned it,” Mr Bongiascia said. “I told Fr if he wanted the house he needed to buy it tonight because tomorrow could be too late.”

Fr Wenting put the idea of buying the presbytery to the council

bytery, which now belongs to the church and Mr Bongiascia helped them move in.

A few years later the land on Albany Highway became vacant and Fr Burnoli, the head of the Salesian Order in Melbourne, came to Perth to have a look around.

He decided he wanted to buy the land, so Mrs Bongiascia enquired about the land and told her husband that it was for sale and owned by the Uniting Church.

“It was going for around $8,000,” Mr Bongiascia said.

I didn’t know much English and I didn’t have much of an education because growing up during World War II, most of our teachers were in the army. But I wanted to be able to do something good, not just for the Church, but for the people and for God.” but he also needed the approval of the committee.

“I was part of the committee with Mr Haydock and Mr Voysey,” Mr Bongiascia said.

“They said no.” It seemed as if Fr Wenting wasn’t going to be able to buy the presbytery but Mr Bongiascia boldly stepped in.

“I said if the Salesians want to buy the house and if they don’t want it no more I’m prepared to buy it at the price of the market,” Mr Bongiascia said.

After that Fr Wenting and the Salesians were able to buy the pres-

“So I told the Uniting Church your church has no money and our church has no money.”

The Uniting Church sold the land to the Salesians for $5,000 and years later the Salesians built the parish hall on the land.

“Peter the architect got it ready with drawings,” Mr Bongiascia said.

“I did the floor and the brickwork.”

Fr Murphy from Melbourne opened the parish hall in the 1980s.

The Salesians left the parish and the Neocatechumenal Way came to Good Shepherd but the building of the parish continued with the set-

ting of the fence due to unforseen trouble.

“We had vandals,” Mr Bongiascia said. “I said we should put up a fence but nobody would listen then I told Fr Melvin to put up a fence and we’ll have less trouble.”

Peter the architect was once again called upon and he drew up the plans resulting in a fence being built around the parish compound to make it more secure.

“I did a lot of work on the tiles, the fence, the brick paving and the presbytery,” Mr Bongiascia said.

He also built the grotto 30 years ago.

“It is very special because it is Our Lady in the grotto,” Mr Bongiascia said.

The grotto reminds Mr Bongiascia of his hometown, a small city called Sondrio, north of Italy and close to Milan.

“I used to go to Our Lady of the Rosary parish in Italy,” Mr Bongiascia said. “And our grotto reminds me of that.”

Mr Bongiascia immigrated to Australia in 1949. He was married at St Anne’s in Belmont in 1954 and next year marks the 60th anniversary of his wedding to Mrs Paola Bongiascia.

“My trade is building,” he said.

“I didn’t know much English and I didn’t have much of an education because growing up during World War II, most of our teachers were in the army.

“But I wanted to be able to do something good, not just for the Church, but for the people and for God.”

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Maronite bishops warn of dangers of military strike

Issa, a 10-year-old Syrian boy, carries a mortar shell in a weapons factory of the Free Syrian Army in Aleppo where he works 10 hours a day. PHOTO: HAMID KHATIB, CNS

Francis lifts Syria in prayer POPE FRANCIS is leading the Catholic Church on an extraordinary campaign to prevent President Barack Obama’s proposed military strike on Syria.

On September 4, the Pope appealed to leaders of the G-20 nations to “lay aside the futile pursuit of a military solution” to the Syrian civil war and promote instead a “peaceful solution through dialogue and negotiation.”

The next day, his foreign minister sent the same message in a special meeting with the Vatican diplomatic corps. And on September 7, the Pope was scheduled to lead a prayer vigil for Syria in St. Peter’s Square - an event that the Vatican spokesman, Jesuit Fr Federico Lombardi, said would be unprecedented, in both scale and importance of setting, as a papal gesture for peace.

Exceptional as they are, however, Pope Francis’ actions have followed in close continuity with the spirit and record of his predecessors.

On the first visit by a Pope to the United Nations, in 1965, Pope Paul VI memorably called for “No more war, war never again”. Blessed John Paul II was a constant campaigner for peace, calling the interfaith meetings in Assisi, praying for an end to violence in the Balkans, and doing everything he could, publicly and privately, to prevent the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

Papal peacemaking efforts have yielded little in the way of concrete results - the major exception being the Vatican’s mediation of a territorial dispute between Argentina and Chile in the late 1970s and early 1980s - but no office today is more closely identified, by Catholics and non-Catholics alike, with promotion of peace as a fundamental value.

Yet that role is a relatively recent one in the context of the papacy’s 2,000-year history. Until a few generations ago, far from tirelessly advocating for negotiation and dialogue, popes often justified war and even waged it themselves.

Most famously, a series of medieval popes called Crusades against Muslims in the Holy Land and elsewhere in the region - including Syria. Until the late 19th century, the papacy had its own army, the

last vestiges of which are visible today in Vatican City’s colourfully uniformed Swiss Guards, whose job is no longer to attack anyone, only to protect the Pope.

But in the early 16th century, the Renaissance Pope Julius II actually rode at the head of his troops, wearing full armour, in battles against rival Italian rulers and France.

It was only in the 20th century that the bishop of Rome emerged as a reliable voice against war as a way of resolving international disputes.

Pope Benedict XV made extensive efforts to broker an end to the carnage of World War I, and Pope Pius XII sought through diplomatic channels to head off World War II. That change certainly reflects the vast leap in destructive power of military technology in the industrial age, which has made the conditions set by Catholic social teaching for waging a just war all but impossible to meet.

In 1963, Blessed John XXIII wrote in his encyclical Pacem in Terris that nuclear weapons had made war finally unacceptable as a means of redressing injustice.

And Pope Francis, while opposing military intervention in Syria, has stressed that he condemns with “utmost firmness” any use of chemical weapons, a recent instance of which is Obama’s justification for striking the forces of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

Not only the nature of modern weaponry, but also a change in the papacy itself has made it easier for popes to give up on war. With the loss of the Papal States in 1870, the Holy See ceased to be a territorial power. Since then, no Pontiff has had a direct stake in any international conflict, and this neutrality has left popes freer to fulfill their role as leaders of a truly universal Church, including the fundamental role of making peace.

- CNS

As threats of military intervention against Syria escalate, Pope Francis has called for peace.

PHOTOS: CNS

L E BA N ON ’ S Maronite Catholic bishops have warned against military intervention in neighbouring Syria.

“The bishops denounce the use of chemical weapons in Syria, but they call for being aware of the risks of a potential military strike,” the bishops said in a statement following their monthly meeting on September 4.

The bishops said foreign intervention poses “grave, grave dangers and repercussions of severe consequences for the countries of the region” and stressed that the war in Syria should be resolved “diplomatically and peacefully, away from the use of arms”.

US President Barack Obama is seeking approval from Congress to go forward with military action against the regime of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

The office of the UN Higher Commissioner for Refugees said on September 1 that the number of Syrian refugees in Lebanon had reached more than 716,000.

The bishops praised Pope Francis’ call for prayer, fasting and repentance for peace in Syria and his direct appeal to the international community for dialogue and negotiation for peace.

They urged parishes and monasteries to organise participation with Pope Francis in his prayer vigil in St. Peter’s Square on September 7 and urged local Catholics to spend that evening in prayer and repentance.

The council’s meeting at the Maronite patriarchal summer seat in Diman, in northern Lebanon, was attended in part by caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who later held a closed-door meeting with Cardinal Bechara Rai, Maronite patriarch.

The bishops reiterated their plea for a new Cabinet to be formed to address challenges facing the country. Lebanon has been without a government since March.

“Given the dangers threatening Lebanon from both inside and outside the country, the bishops call on state officials... to overcome all barriers dividing them and make a Cabinet capable of confronting dangers and of protecting the Lebanese people and constitutional institutions from total collapse,” the bishops said.

“It is about time to realise that if the nation falls apart, we will all fall with it,” they said.

The bishops denounced the August bombings that rocked the southern suburbs of Beirut and Tripoli, killing more than 70, wounding hundreds and putting Lebanon “on the brink of sectarian strife and civil war.”

They praised the patriarch for visiting the targeted areas and offering condolences to the victims of the attacks.

The bishops also expressed appreciation to Lebanese expatriates who visited the country in the summer despite “the wars and turmoil in the region in addition to paraly sis in Lebanon, which have negatively affected tourism.”

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Salvation is from

THE JEWS Busily immersed in a stellar academic career lecturing at Harvard Business School, Roy Schoeman – the son of Jewish parents who fled the Nazis – experienced a sudden and unexpected profound conversion to Christianity.

The best-selling author of Salvation is From the Jews has written extensively on the relationship between Judaism and the Catholic Faith. He has spoken and given retreats and conferences around the world while his appearance and books have been recommended by bishops such as Cardinal Raymond Burke and theologians like Dr Alice Von Hildebrand. In October he will be in Perth. It’s a not-to-be-missed moment in your calendar. Here, he tells his conversion story...

G

rowing up I was unusually devout and passionate about God and Judaism, although the suburban conservative context I was in did not really support a life of piety, faith and prayer.

In my senior year of high school I met a very charismatic “mystic” Hasidic Rabbi (Shlomo Carlebach) who used to go around the US giving “concerts” which were really prayer meetings over which he would preside, playing guitar and leading Hasidic worship songs, interspersed with religious storytelling and teaching.

He had a large following among Jewish hippies and college stu-

dents. I fell in with him, and spent the following summer travelling with him in Israel in his entourage.

I wanted to live my life for God and with God, and while in Israel I considered abandoning my plans to go to M.I.T. in order to stay in Israel studying at one of the Jerusalem yeshivas (which are schools where young men devote their time to prayer and religious study, the closest thing Judaism has to religious life). But I was turned off by a certain sterility and coldness which I saw in them, and which did not speak of real intimacy with God. So I returned to the US and started at M.I.T. I felt very lost, because anything which did not

Roy Schoeman Author of Salvation is from

the Jews Speaking at:

Holy Spirit School Theatre 2 Keaney Pl, City Beach

Friday 4 October 7pm My conversion story Saturday 5 October 7pm The conversion stories of Alphonse Ratisbonne, St Edith Stein and other well known Jews Sunday 6 October 7pm The role of Judaism in Salvation History from Abraham to the Second Coming Roy Schoeman was born in New York City of Jewish parents who had fled Nazi Germany. His Jewish education and formation were received under some of the most prominent Rabbis in contemporary American Jewry. He holds a B.Sc. from MIT and an MBA magna cum laude from Harvard Business School.

This speaking tour has been organised and sponsored by the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate. For more info contact the Friars at: (08) 9574-5204 or avemaria@ perthcatholic.org.au

have God at its centre seemed to have no point or meaning, yet there was nothing I could “do” which did have God at its centre. The former Hebrew school teacher with whom I was close had also by then moved to Boston, where he started a kind of counter-culture, hippie-oriented Jewish seminary/commune Although I tried to maintain my religious orientation, there was a fatal flaw in it which soon led me astray. I had no understanding of the relationship between religion and morality, particularly sexual morality. So my religiosity soon became mixed up in the drug and “free love” culture which was rampant, and soon degenerated into the immoral, vague hippie “spirituality” of the time. My thirst for God became, for a long while, sated by the false consolations and delusional spirituality of that environment.

For the next fifteen years, I lived my life in a tremendous inner tension. I had a yearning for transcendent meaning, and a refusal to let go of that yearning for more than short periods, but had no knowledge of what that yearning was truly for, and hence no sense of a direction to go in. In 1978 I went back to school, to Harvard Business School for an M.B.A., but the momentary feelings of success which that produced did not assuage my desperation for real meaning for long. Anything which I tried, whether a career switch or a romantic relationship, only produced a momentary illusion of purpose which soon faded, leaving me with the desperate sense that there must be something more. That is why I never settled in to a career, or married.

At Harvard Business School I did extraordinarily well, winning most of the available awards in my class, and graduating among the top few with “High Distinction.”

Shortly after graduation I was invited to join the faculty, and did so, teaching the core marketing course in the M.B.A. program. Yet even the success of being a Harvard Business School professor, and a very popular one at that, at thirty years of age did not assuage my sense of pointlessness.

Of course God was using everything in my life to bring me to Him, and it would soon bear fruit.

It was when I was in the spectacu-

lar natural beauty of the Alps that I became aware of the existence of God for the first time since college. I remember the scene -- I was high up on the mountain, still well above tree line, shortly after sunset, with the sky glowing a soft red and the snow and granite glowing blue in the twilight. My heart opened with gratitude, and I knew that such beauty had been created by God. It is worth noting that the area of Austria which I was in was still deeply and piously Catholic, with beautiful crucifixes everywhere, both inside the houses, hotels and restaurants and also along the roads and even trails. Even in the ski town the Church was packed for Sunday Mass. (In fact, in the bedand-breakfast where I was staying a carved wooden crucifix, with corpus, hung over my bed. Every evening when I returned to the room I would remove it and place it in a drawer -- I had no desire to sleep

In my dream I was left alone with the most beautiful young woman I could imagine.

I knew without being told that it was the Blessed Virgin Mary. under a cross ! -- and the following day I would find it had been rehung over the bed,without comment, by the devout, elderly woman in whose home I was staying).

[But my life] became more and more despondent. The only relief I could find was spending time alone in nature, trying to recapture a hint of the consolation which I had felt in the Alps. During the spring of 1987 I took a few days off from work and went to Cape Cod to spend time in the nature there. I was walking in the early morning, in the woods just back from the beach, when God intervened, dramatically and distinctly, into my life to pull me back and put me onto the right path. As I was walking, lost in my thoughts, I found myself in the immediate presence of God. It is as though I «fell into Heaven.» Everything changed from one moment to the next, but

in such a smooth and subtle way that I was not aware of any discontinuity. I felt myself in the immediate presence of God. I was aware of His infinite exaltedness, and of His infinite and personal love for me. I saw my life as though I was looking back on it after death, in His presence, and could see everything which I would be happy about and everything which I would wish I had done differently. I saw that every action I had ever done mattered, for good or for evil. I saw that everything which had ever happened in my life had been perfectly designed for my own good from the infinitely wise and loving hand of God, not only including but especially those things which I at the time I thought had been the greatest catastrophes. I saw that my two greatest regrets when I died would be every moment which I had wasted not doing anything of value in the eyes of God, and all of the time and energy which I had wasted worrying about not being loved when every moment of my existence I was bathed in an infinite sea of love, although unaware of it. I saw that the meaning and purpose of my life was to worship and serve my Lord and Master, in whose presence I found myself. I wanted to know His name, so that I could worship Him properly, so that I could follow «His» religion. I remember silently praying «Tell me your name. I don›t mind if You›re Apollo, and I have to become a Roman pagan. I don›t mind if You›re Krishna, and I have to become a Hindu. I don›t mind if You›re Buddha, and I have to become a Buddhist. As long as You›re not Christ, and I have to become a Christian!» (Jewish readers might be able to identify with this deep-rooted aversion to Christianity, based on the mistaken belief that it was the «enemy» which lay behind two thousand years of persecution of the Jews.)

Not surprisingly, He did not tell me His name. Obviously, I wasn›t ready to hear it -- my resistance at the time was still too great. But I knew, from that moment on, the meaning and purpose and goal of my life; and that sense has not faded or wavered, although the immediate state of perception did.

When I got back home, every-

VISTA

therecord.com.au September 11, 2013

15

Pope John Paul II places a prayer in a crevice of the Western Wall, Judaism’s holiest site, in 2000. Both the late Pope and his modern successors have displayed a clear affection for and respect towards Christianity’s ancestors in faith. Roy Schoeman, who like others does not renounce his Jewish identity, credits Mary (played by Jewish actress Maia Morgenstern in a scene from Mel Gibson’s Passion of the Christ, above) with a pivotal role in his own conversion.

PHOTOS: TOP, LEFT: ARTURO MARI; ABOVE: ICON PRODUCITONS

thing was different. I remember calling my mother and telling her «Mum, I have good news! It›s all true! You don›t ever die...» only to be met with a sort of stony silence.

It had never occurred to me that she might not believe me -- after all, I knew from my own direct experience! Although I went back to my consulting, everything was now different, and I set out on a focused search to find my Lord and Master and God whom I had met on the beach that day.

Because I interpreted the experience as a «mystical» one, I initially looked towards mysticism, which led me to a lot of blind alleys. Prior to my experience I had not had any interest at all in mysticism or any of the New Age religions or meditative practices or occultism, and those are what I first came across.

I spent a number of months looking in that, essentially Hindu although disguised, direction.

Yet every night before going to sleep, I would say a short prayer to know the name of my Lord and Master and God whom I had met on the beach. A year to the day after the initial experience, I went to sleep after saying that prayer, and felt as though I was woken by a gentle hand on my shoulder, and escorted to a room where I was left alone with the most beautiful young woman I could imagine. I knew without being told that she was the Blessed Virgin Mary. I felt entirely awake

(and my memory is as though I had been awake), although I was dreaming. I remember my first reaction, standing there awed by her presence and grandeur, was wishing I knew at least the Hail Mary so that I could honour her! She offered to answer any questions I had. I remember thinking about what to ask, asking the questions, and her answers. After speaking to me a while longer, the audience was ended. When I woke the next morning I was hopelessly in love with the Blessed Virgin Mary, and I knew that the God I had met on the beach was Christ, and, and that all I wanted was to be as much of, and as good a, Christian as possible. I still did not know anything about Christianity, nor the difference between the Catholic Church and any of the hundreds of Protestant denominations. It took me another two years or so to find my way to the Catholic Church, guided by my love and reverence for the Blessed Virgin Mary.

I will just touch briefly on some of the milestones which led me to the Catholic Church. After the dream of Mary, I started going to a local Protestant Church, but left when I asked the pastor about Mary and he made a disparaging remark.

I started hanging around Marian shrines, particularly a shrine of Our Lady of La Salette which was in Ipswich, Mass., about 40 minutes from my house. On a winter ski trip to the Alps, I decided

to visit the real La Salette apparition site (in the French Alps), and ended up spending the rest of the «ski» trip there, in deep prayer.

Someone I met there recommended that I make a visit to a Carthusian monastery, and I ended up doing so, spending a week there, on a kind of solitary «come and see» although I was still Jewish. There I became aware, for the first time, how the Catholic Church was itself an outgrowth of Judaism. It was unavoidably obvious, given how the monks spent many hours a day chanting the Old Testament psalms, with their continual references to Israel, Zion, Jerusalem, the Jewish Patriarchs, and the Jewish people, visibly identifying with the «Israel» of the psalms (that is, the Jews). A small illustration: One day when I was working alone in the fields, an elderly monk came out to speak with me. He approached and shyly asked, «Tell us, if you don›t mind

I will never know, this side of Heaven, whose prayers and sacrifices purchased the graces for my entirely unsought conversion.

-- We couldn›t help noticing that you do not receive communion, so you must not be Catholic. What then are you?» When I replied «Jewish», he grinned and with a deep sigh said «That›s a relief! We were afraid you were Protestant!».

At the time I had no understanding at all of the difference between Protestants and Catholics -- they were just meaningless words to me describing Christians -- yet I was deeply struck by the fact that in some mysterious way this monk identified with Jews as opposed to Protestants. I later realized that in his eyes Jews were “elder brothers in the Faith” who had not yet received the grace to recognize the Messiahship of Jesus, whereas Protestants had once had, but then rejected, the fullness of the truth.

During that week I grew to feel Mary›s central, penetrating presence in the Catholic Church.

I also started to be deeply dis-

tressed at being unable to receive communion. It was my desire to receive communion which, more than anything else, drew me to the Baptismal font. I had sought out a Jewish priest, Father Raphael Simon, (referred to me by the Carthusian Prior) for baptism. He was a former (Jewish) University of Chicago Philosophy professor and New York City psychiatrist, who became a Trappist monk (his conversion story is published under the title The Glory of Thy People.)

When I first met with him he asked me why I wanted to be baptised.

Since I knew that I couldn’t truthfully say (at the time) that it was because I believed in all of Catholic doctrine, I angrily blurted out “Because I want to receive communion and otherwise you won’t let me !” I thought he would throw me out on my ear, but instead he nodded sagely and said “Ah, that’s the Holy Spirit at work...”

So in early 1992 I was baptized and confirmed just in time for another more extended stay at the Carthusian monastery, to discern whether that was my vocation. It wasn’t (although the Prior continued for many years to be my spiritual director), but the fanaticism which characterized my pre-conversion life has served me well, now that I have found the true direction for my life.

Although I have no religious or priestly vocation, there is (please God) nothing in my life which is not for Him and around Him. In a number of small ways I am active in the Church, with daily Mass and prayer being at the centre of my life -- writing, teaching or speaking whenever asked, producing and hosting a Catholic TV talk show. I have just completed a book on the role of Judaism in salvation history, Salvation is from the Jews, which is being published this year

by Ignatius Press. It should give Christians a deeper understanding of Judaism as the religion which God created to bring about the incarnation of God as man, as well as the religion into which He incarnated. To Jews it should reveal the full glory and importance of Judaism, a glory which can only be recognized in the light of the truths of the Catholic Faith. My hope is that by illuminating Judaism with a deeper meaning and significance

than Jews see from within their own faith, their pride in being Jewish will draw them towards, rather than away from, the Catholic Church.

I will never know, this side of Heaven, whose prayers and sacrifices purchased the graces for my entirely unsought after and undeserved conversion, but I can only thank them profoundly, and exhort others, too, to pray for the conversion of the Jews; that the people to whom Jesus first made Himself known may come into the truth and into the fullness of their relationship to Him in the Catholic Church. How tragic that we to whom God first revealed Himself as Man should be among the last to recognize Him! In the words of the Postulatum from the First Vatican Council, signed by the Fathers of the Council and endorsed by Pope Pius IX (but never formally promulgated due to the Council’s premature termination upon the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian War): “The undersigned Fathers of the Council humbly yet urgently beseechingly pray that the Holy Ecumenical Council of the Vatican deign to come to the aid of the unfortunate nation of Israel with an entirely paternal invitation; that is, that it express the wish that, finally exhausted by a wait no less futile than long, the Israelites hasten to recognize the Messiah, our Saviour Jesus Christ, truly promised to Abraham and announced by Moses; thus completing and crowning, not changing, the Mosaic religion.

“The undersigned Fathers have the very firm confidence that the holy Council will have compassion on the Israelites, because they are always very dear to God on account of their fathers, and because it is from them that the Christ was born according to the flesh! Would that they then speedily acclaim the Christ, saying: Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed be He who comes in the name of the Lord!

Would that they hurl themselves into the arms of the Immaculate Virgin Mary, even now their sister according to the flesh, who wishes likewise to be their mother according to grace as she is ours! Our Lady of Zion, pray for us!

This edited version of the author’s conversion story is taken from Christ to the World

16

OPINION

EDITORIAL

Two leaders - but who is for peace?

L

ast weekend millions of people all over the world – Catholic, non-Catholic, agnostic or non-religious – joined Pope Francis’s call for prayer, fasting and penance for peace in Syria. It was a stunning initiative on the part of this new Pope who has so rapidly won widespread admiration, often surprising for the way in which it seems to cut across the usual religious and secular boundaries since his election on March 13. Pope Francis has shown himself to be an entirely different Vicar of Christ, a master of the spiritual life whose simplicity seems to bypass boundaries, disarming numerous prejudices and speaking directly to people existentially in their daily lives in ways that make them stop and think. The Holy Father’s Saturday evening (WA time) vigil provoked an enormous and sympathetic global response.

Interestingly, the contrast between the papal response to “beloved Syria’s” suffering, as Pope Francis referred to the war-torn country, and that of the individual who is winner of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize could not have been clearer – or starker. President Barak Obama was awarded the Nobel Prize nine months after first winning the Presidency for his “extraordinary efforts” to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples. But, we might say, in light of his insistent push for a US-led military strike on Syria following the use of chemical weapons, probably by elements of the regime of President Bashar Al Assad in August, what is remarkable about his extraordinary abilities for peace is that they appear to have disappeared completely, and possibly conveniently.

At what point was the President who so rapidly scooped up a Nobel Prize for Peace illuminated by the need for military intervention in Syria in a civil war that began 29 months earlier in his Presidency?

Since its commencement in March 2011 it has been widely estimated by numerous Middle-Eastern analysts, reputable news and aid agencies that at least 250,000 Syrians, almost all of them non-combatants, are likely to die by the conclusion of the conflict. The estimates appear to be more or less on track. As of June 2013, the casualty count was believed to have passed the 100,000 mark. Meanwhile, estimates of the number of refugees soar steadily towards astronomically tragic levels.

“Today, the UN has registered more than 1.6 million refugees and acknowledges PO Box 3075 more than 200,000 who Adelaide Terrace still await registration, the PERTH WA 6832 Guardian newspaper reported in July. “Now, the UN expects that the by the end of 2013 office@therecord.com.au there will be 3.5 million... and Tel: (08) 9220 5900 that a further 1.9 million peoFax: (08) 9325 4580 ple in the region will need help as a result of Syria’s crisis.”

There is the problem of the trigger. While President Obama insists the Assad regime sanctioned the use of the weapons there is firstly the problem of US intelligence assessments – the non-existent Weapons of Mass Destruction which became the primary excuse to invade Iraq being among the more famous of the now numerous examples of persistent US intelligence failure or the suborning of US intelligence agencies to White House political agendas. The September 2011 11 storming of the US Embassy in Benghazi and the killing of several staff including US Ambassador Christopher Stevens is another. This week the highly reputable German newspaper Bild am Sonntag reported President Assad has actually blocked numerous requests by elements of his own military to use chemical weapons. The intelligence from high-level national security sources was sourced from phone calls intercepted by a German surveillance ship operated by the BND, the German intelligence service, and deployed off the Syrian coast, the newspaper said.

There is the additional problem that both sides in this fratricidal conflict are as evil as each other. Additionally, Christians in Syria are terrified of what will happen if the Islamist forces begin winning the war. They should know. Throughout the Middle East a mass-exodus of Christian refugees has been occurring for years as Islamic fanatics and radicals go on a holy jihad against rival Islamic factions and Christians; the bloody assault last weekend by al-Qa’ida forces on the Christian town of Maloula located approximately 30 kilometres north-west of Damascus signals this latest special dimension to the war. President Obama’s denial of the presence or influence of Islamist extremism in the Syrian opposition armed forces is clearly false.

We are led to wonder who of the two modern leaders – President Barak Obama or Pope Francis – is doing their best to end the carnage in Syria? We recall President Obama’s brutal war on Christianity, specifically Catholicism, at home in the US, making it mandatory for Christian employers to fund practices repugnant to their deepest beliefs such as abortion and the provision of abortifacient contraception. Adept at exploiting domestic political correctness yet consistently wrong-footed international diplomacy, President Obama appears to be cynically misrepresenting international events to try and undo his own history of foreign affairs blunders. When he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize the President said he did not feel he deserved the award.

Given the living hell he is set to magnify in Syria, it seems clear that on that occasion, at least, he was perfectly correct. That he is doing it for his own image only makes it that much more shameful. Many will die for the President’s desire to be seen as a decisive leader.

Many may well die for President Obama’s desire to be seen as a strong man in world affairs.

THE RECORD

therecord.com.au September 11, 2013

LETTERS

Saddened by report on music in liturgy I WAS saddened to read my own words taken out of context in the article ‘Classical, not rock music, fits Church’ (The Record, August 14) and the subsequent written criticism in The Record and on Facebook that followed. I have never set out to imply that one form of liturgical music is better than another; neither do I have any authority to do so. I have, however, always sought to support, praise and help shape the worship of God with whatever gifts are on offer in each unique setting.

I hope this has been made only too apparent through the warm and enthusiastic welcome we have strived to give to musicians from various schools and organisations that use St Mary’s Cathedral. Might I take this opportunity to publicly applaud and thank each and every

person who gives of their time and talents to provide and enhance the worship of God throughout the Archdiocese? If those of us within the Cathedral music programme can offer any further support to musicians involved with the liturgy, please be encouraged to get in touch.

Jacinta Jakovcevic Director of Music ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL, WA Having listened to the original interview The Record is satisfied that journalist Matthew Biddle was completely professional in all statements used in the published article and has not misrepresented any of the statements made during its course. - Ed.

Good for students to experience other faiths HAVING lived for several years in different parts of Asia, I couldn’t agree more that exposing our children to different cultures/religions is a good thing.

That is, so long as Catholic children in schools are taught with conviction about the truths of their Catholic religion how to defend these truths and the fact that although other religions contain some truths, the Catholic faith contains the fullness of the truth after all, this is the whole reason for them being in a Catholic school.

Too often, I feel, comparative religion studies lead young people to believe that all religions are equal, the result being that very few could be bothered to practice the faith of countless generationsc.

I feel sure that most of the parents at Corpus Christi College would have preferred for any money raised at their school to go towards the missions for propagation of the Catholic faith, rather than to monks (however well they chant and however charitable they be), of a religion/philosophy, that is not even Christian.

Gillian Gonzalez WILLETTON, WA

God’s very identity stamped in each of our hearts If we fail to recognise the divine imprint within oursleves, it’s logical we will fail to recognise it in the others we meet every day of our lives...

I Say, I Say MARK REIDY

I

t is said the famous sculptor, Michelangelo, was once found staring intently at a block of granite. When asked what he was doing, the artist explained, “I know there’s a beautiful angel in there and I’m trying to work out the best way to release her”.

I was reminded of this story recently as I watched Nick, who many consider to be dangerous, gently interact with Jamie, a young boy from a broken family. Nick describes himself as a violent and abusive man and it is why many give him a wide berth. As a result he lives a very lonely and isolated existence.

On this particular night he didn’t know I was watching as he engaged with Jamie, who had been removed from the care of his abusive mother and now lived with his alcoholic father. Nick was playfully showing Jamie a few moves on how to defend himself in a fight.

The interaction meant a lot to Jamie who was often a victim of bullying. It also came from a heart of compassion as Nick had also been a victim of abuse as a young boy. I have also seen Nick stand up to acts of injustice inflicted on some of the most vulnerable people living on the streets.

In my last column (August 28) I wrote that in order to discover our true identities we needed to recognise who God created us to be.

After witnessing the interaction between Nick and Jamie, I realised it is equally important for we Christians to also recognise the true identity of those around us.

When Michelangelo was found contemplating the lump of granite he was not staring at a hunk of rough, unrefined rock, but rather visualising a beautiful creation within it. He knew, buried under the layers of its hardened exterior lay a masterpiece waiting to be exposed to the world. It is an insight we are called to imitate.

God’s identity, which has been indelibly stamped within each of us, lives with the constant threat of burial due to our vulnerability

to the environment around us. His divine identity will be either spiritually released or it will be entrapped and hidden beneath the debris of our human experience.

In varying degrees it is a phenomenon that impacts us all. If we fail to recognise the divine imprint within our selves, as sons and daughters of God, we will struggle to recognise God within others. It is why Jesus told us to love our neighbour as ourselves.

Sadly however, how we perceive and respond to others is often determined by the attitude and behaviours they present to the world. The more one has been hurt or damaged the more likely they

Nick is aggressive. Yet there are moments when his true identity in God will shine through.

I’ve seen such moments. are to have erected, usually unconsciously, layers of self-protection to prevent or minimise further pain.

These layers are usually unattractive, and are in fact intended to be.

The divine within them becomes increasingly unrecognisable as they create these identities of selfpreservation.

Anger, violence, timidity, selfabuse, aloofness, isolation, substance abuse etc. are all barriers borne of fear, designed to keep the world and its potential threats at bay.

It is why Nick maintains a persona of aggression. He has known deep pain and his natural response has become one of guarded distrust, yet there are moments when his true identity in God will shine through.

These are glimpses of who Nick was created to be and would have been had he been nurtured in the environment of love that God had intended.

It is why we must constantly remind ourselves that God is living within each person, no matter what façade is on display. If we are to believe that everyone is created in the image of God then we must believe that any signs of external ugliness or imperfection are products, not of God, but of failed human experience.

Psalm 139 tells us that God sees through the darkness of our lives and sees the divine within. It is why Jesus, surrendered to his Father’s will, could see the real person behind the flaws. It is what we are all called to do. Like Michelangelo, we must look beyond the masks of sediment and, through choices of love, draw forth the beautiful reality buried within.

OPINION

therecord.com.au September 11, 2013

17

Nothing more... beautiful than being with Him

Nothing compares to simply being in the presence of Jesus and receiving what He wants to give, writes Geetanjali Arora...

I

t is nothing more than going to a church with the Blessed Sacrament exposed and sitting there. It is nothing more than being truly present. It is not asking God, it is not thanking God. It is not an analysis of your life, what you’ve said or done, or how others interacted with you. For once in your life you get to simply sit and exist as you are.

I think that’s what blows me away most, that when you go into an adoration chapel, you are truly in God’s presence. Since God knows everything anyway, its useless to be anxious, apologetic nor to ask anything. You’re there to be, and specifically to be with God, and there’s no point doing anything else, even if you want to. Its so freeing.

Whilst you sit there, you acknowledge that the only important thing at this moment is that the creation is with the creator.

You don’t have to change who you are, nor pretend to be something else, nor hide. This is the way you were created, and you’re with the Being who wanted you to be the way that you are.

It is so refreshing to have no expectations upon you, no world which demands that you change your morals to better fit in, no spouse nor parent who makes demands of you which you feel as though you cannot possibly fulfill.

You’re the absolute focus of your Creator’s delight, and all you have to do is exist.

I guess adoration is an occasion

where you give permission for God to be God in your life, and is this not the essence of being a Christian? To acknowledge your need for God, and to let God come into your life, transform it and act through you.

All of a sudden there is no point to worry or stress, because at the end of the day, it’s not your job, that

God’s job! All you have to do is be who you truly were made to be, and allow God to shine through you.

That’s it, a transparency of God. I think it’s really easy to lose sight of who we are when surrounded by the world. It’s because there’s so much that we have to do; duties to our families, friends, parish, col-

leagues and on top of that, attempt to be Christ-like in our actions! If that weren’t demanding enough, being a Christian today is a challenge, since you have to go against the values of so many people. It’s easy to surrender slightly and believe that one small issue doesn’t matter. Soon enough one turns

into two, and then three hundred.

By this stage we forget that all these complications aren’t necessary, and lose sight of who and what we are.

We forget that we are created to give delight to our God. Even in mass, the summit of the Christian experience, where God comes down to us in physical form, it is easy to be overwhelmed. There’s readings, hymns, people around you, and just so many words and ideas. I find myself lost quite often in mass, particularly after a homily which I couldn’t follow.

Everyone knows that the rosary, even though it is an amazing, powerful form of prayer, has the ability to put you to sleep.

Then there’s the novena which goes for nine days straight, not to mention the liturgy of the hours which requires the (sung) recital of psalms! There’s so many words to say all the time. It gets so complicated so quickly.

That’s why I like to go and just sit in adoration. All you have to do is be yourself completely. Let God see you, as you truly are, and in the silence you’ll find yourself discovering who you were made to be.

You simply let God’s presence permeate all aspects of your life.

You don’t have to say or do anything, merely putting yourself in the presence of God is enough. When you walk out, all burdens simply vaporise, because you are lost in the wonder and delight of simply being a child and creation of God. That’s what adoration is for me.

Bright promise, big questions IVF holds out great hope to the childless, the possibility of conceiving life. Why on earth would anyone want to prevent it?

Foolish Wisdom BERNARD TOUTOUNJI

I

f you take a quick poll of the next ten strangers you encounter and ask them about the Catholic Church and its attitude towards in vitro fertilisation (IVF) you are likely to get two responses: half will not realise the Church has a concern with IVF and the other half will state how ridiculous it is that the Church is concerned about a process that can bring children to couples who are unable to conceive.

Actually the Church has more than a concern; the Church has taught since IVF came about, that the process is “gravely immoral”.

The Church has more than a concern with regard to IVF. But it’s important to understand why - it sees sex, love and new life as inseparable...

Not that the Church just made up this teaching when IVF began in the late 1970s, rather it applied its ongoing understanding of sexuality to this particular question.

Nonetheless, couples considering IVF as a last hope don’t like being told that their choice is gravely immoral so it’s worth considering just what the real problem is.

First, IVF has no guaranteed success. The success rate of IVF is generally 50 per cent for women under 30, but falls to just 20 per

cent for women under 40. Second, IVF costs a lot of money. Each treatment cycle can cost a couple around $3000 (after government assistance) whether there is success or not.

Third, IVF has health risks.

About 30 per cent of IVF patients experience at least a mild case of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) which causes swollen, painful ovaries.

While mild cases can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication a small percentage develop severe OHSS which may require hospitalisation.

Fourth, IVF creates a life by destroying others. A usual cycle of IVF produces multiple embryos to assist with the success rate and

also to store if a couple wishes to try for more children further down the track. However the truth is these embryos are mostly unused.

There are 120,000 embryos sitting in frozen storage in Australia, the majority of which will be eventually destroyed with about 90 per cent of IVF couples choosing to discard them.

It is worth remembering that an embryo is no longer just an egg or a sperm, it is a new human life. A couple must ask themselves if the birth of one of their children justifies the deliberate creation and destruction of a few of their other children.

Another real concern with IVF is the physical and emotional cost.

And while the actual physical pro-

cess of IVF is difficult enough, perhaps even more serious is the emotional toll that must be borne in the relationship.

A book well worth reading is The Hollow Heart by Irish journalist Martina Devlin; it is subtitled ‘The true story of one woman’s desire to give life and how it almost destroyed her own’.

In three attempts at IVF Martina lost nine embryos but in the process she also lost her marriage and was driven to the depths of despair.

While Martina and her husband began with the very natural desire for children this eventually became so all-encompassing for Martina that everything else in her life (including her husband) became worthless. Children are a great

blessing but if we cling too tightly to any blessing it can become for us a curse.

Perhaps surprisingly, even the reason above is not the Church’s primary concern with IVF. The fundamental problem with IVF is that it separates the sexual act from the procreative act.

The child is not conceived out of the self-giving act of love between husband and wife in union with God. Rather, the power of life is entrusted to doctors and biologists while the couple is effectively reduced to providers of physical matter and mere observers.

The sexual union, though, is not just an incidental action of marriage but the very action that makes marriage real and unites it to God’s love. IVF has no regard for the sexual union and thus has no regard for God’s plan around life and love.

The Church understands the great suffering of sterility and encourages good science to work towards reducing its incidence as well as increasing their fertility.

To highlight one example, there has been great success for couples in naprotechnology, which combines medical science with the proper dignity owed to married love.

However, the Church is conscious that a child is always a gift, not something owed. When a couple vow before the priest to accept children lovingly from God there is always the inverted and somewhat harder aspect of the vow which infers that children may not be sent even after years of doing all the right things and saying all the right prayers.

Couples who are struggling with fertility are called to work together with each other and with God to discover the unique way in which their marriage is called to a life of fruitfulness.

18

PANORAMA

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Fundraising Jumble Sale - Myaree Parish 10am–4pm at Pater Noster Parish grounds. Wide range of all pre-loved items. Entrance Evershed St. Enq: Margaret 9330 3848.

Divine Mercy Healing Mass 2.30pm at St Francis Xavier’s Church, 25 Windsor St, East Perth. Main celebrant is Fr Marcellinus Meilak OFM. Reconciliation offered in English and Italian. Divine Mercy prayers followed by Veneration of First Class Relic of St Faustina Kowalska. Refreshments afterwards. Enq: John 9457 7771.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Auslan Cafe 10.30am-12 noon Emmanuel Centre hall next to St Francis Xavier Church, Windsor St, Perth. Ever thought about learning how to communicate with profoundly deaf people through Auslan (Australian Sign Language)? Now you can and it’s FREE. Come and learn in a relaxed and fun way. There is always an interpreter at St Francis Xavier Church for the 9.30am Sunday Mass. Lunch provided. Enq: Emma or Barbara emmanuelcentre@westnet.com.au or 9328 8113.

Meditative Prayer in the Style of Taizé 7-8pm at St Joseph’s Convent Chapel, 16 York St, South Perth. Includes: prayer, chants, scripture reading and silence in candlelight. Come and pray around the Cross. Chapel doors open 6.30pm.

Bring a friend and a torch. Enq: Sr Maree Riddler 0414 683 926.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 AND 22 Latin Mass 8.15am at The Good Shepherd Church, Streich Ave, Kelmscott. Enq: John 9390 6646.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, TO FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 Parish Renewal 7pm and repeated the following day at 9.30am at St Cecilia Parish, cnr Grantham Street and Kenmore Avenue, Floreat. The integration of mind, body and spirit will from the agenda for Fr Justin Belitz OFM. All sessions last one hour each. Please note no evening session on 17 September and no morning session on 18 September. Benediction and Apostolic Blessing on 20 September. Enq: Prue or Fr Andrew on 9387 1158.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Annual Murdoch Lecture by Prof. Lenore Layman PhD 7.15pm at Melville Civic Centre, Almondbury Rd. Booragoon. Topic “Poisonings in WA History: Deaths by murder, accident and suicides”. Prof.

Layman is from Melville History Society. Following refreshments at 6.30pm. Enq: rsvp for catering purposes on 1300 365 845.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Spirituality and the Sunday Gospels 7-8pm at St Benedict’s school hall, Alness St, Applecross. Presented by Norma Woodcock.

Everyone is welcome. Cost: collection. Accreditation recognition by the CEO. Enq: 9487 1772 or www.normawoodcock.com.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 TO SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Inaugural Zimbabwe Catholics Australia and New Zealand Congress Starting Afresh In Jesus Christ. 7pm at Swanleigh, 58 Yule Ave, Middle Swan. Drums have been warmed. The Zimbabwe Catholics Perth community will host this inaugural congress. Two dynamic priests from Zimbabwe will be guest speakers supported by local priests. Various activities have been lined up to make this congress spiritually uplifting. Come, let us journey together in the Year of Faith. Enq: Bibiana 0458 945 444, Jane 0424 007 819.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 St Padre Pio Feast Day 6pm at Infant Jesus Church, 47 Wellington Rd, Morley. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Divine Mercy, Silent Adoration and Benediction; 7pm holy Mass, main celebrant Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey, St Padre Pio Liturgy. Confession available in English and Italian.

Enq: Des 6278 1540.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, OCTOBER 8, 22 AND 29 Springtime with St Francis of Assisi 7.30pm Alverna Centre Meeting Room, St Lawrence Parish, 392 Albert St. Balcatta.

Franciscan spirituality for youth 18-35 years. Join us on a journey of fraternity, of love, of trust – Pope Francis. Enq: Anne-Marie 9207 3691.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 AND THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Small Group Emmaus Walks 2.30pm at Bardon Park carpark, cnr Fourth Ave East and Bardon Pl, Maylands. Sunday and Thursday, 10am. 10 minutes’ walk from the carpark to Friendship 2000 Townhouse on the Swan River walkway. With Gospel reading and reflection session on life’s Emmaus experiences.

Refreshments, donation to Mission Partners Morley outreach. Bookings essential. Enq: margaretbox7@icloud.com or 9272 8263.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Medjugorje evening of prayer group 7pm-9pm at St Mary’s Parish, 21 James St, Guildford. In thanksgiving to spread Our Blessed Mothers messages. Free DVD’s on Medjugorje.

Newsflash. His Holiness Pope Francis is consecrating the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary 12th/13th Oct in Rome. Pilgrimage departing Perth Oct. 8, see classifieds. Enq: 9402 2480 mob 0407 471 256 email medjugorje@ y7mail.com.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4 TO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6 St Francis of Assisi and Br Andrew’s 13th 7.45pm at God’s Farm, 94 Woodlands Rd, Wilabrup, 40km south of Busselton. Marist priest Paul Glynn from NSW, outstanding author and Retreat Master, to give one retreat here commencing with holy Mass. Map sent if requested. Bookings/Enq: Betty Peaker Tel/Fax 9755 6212. Bus reservations Yvonne 9343 1897.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 25th Annual Mass at Grotto on Richard and Judy Priestley’s Farm 10.30am at 473 Chinganning Rd, Wooroloo. Head east on Great Eastern H/way, 10kms past The Lakes Roadhouse, 100m past El Caballo Blanco, right/ south into Wariin Rd 1.8kms, left at Chinganning Rd, 2.3kms to farm gate top of hill on right. Bring chair, hat, and picnic lunch. BBQ meat provided free. All welcome. Enq: 9367 3223, 0428 502 749.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6 TO SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 Individual Silent Directed Retreat 4.30pm at St Catherine’s House of Hospitality, 113 Tyler St, Tuart Hill. Meet daily with your retreat directors, Celia Joyce or Fr Stephen Truscott SM, to explore the movement of God within your life. The retreat unfolds at your own pace.

(Limited to 10 retreatants.) Enq: 9485 8980 or www.fullnessoflife.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 TO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13 Inner Healing Live-In Retreat 7.30am at Epiphany Retreat Centre, 50 Fifth Ave, Rossmoyne. Come and receive Jesus’ embrace and healing through his Word and Sacraments during this retreat. Led by the Vincentian Fathers.

Enq: Melanie 0410 605 743 or vincentiansperth@ yahoo.com.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1 First Friday Holy Hour 7.30pm at St Bernadette’s Parish, Glendalough, corner Jugan and Leeder Sts. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, music and chants, silence, readings and meditative decades of the holy Rosary. Tea/coffee and cake to follow. Enq: Sean Tobin of Bl Elisabeth of the Trinity Choir 0439 720 066.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Peranakan Community Perth - Fair 9am-2pm at Fr O’Reilly Centre, St Norbert College, 135 Treasure Rd, Queens Park. Proceeds from fair will go towards St Norbert College’s “breakfast club” to feed students who come to school without any basic nutrition; Holy Spirit Freedom Community for their Perth’s homeless, abused, poor ministry and those who have been hurt. Those interested in helping or running a stall offering anything typically Peranakan, are welcome. Enq: Fr Christopher Lim 0437 307 170 or 9458 2729.

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.

Cathedral Cafe Cathedral Cafe is now open every Sunday 9.30am1pm at St Mary’s Cathedral parish centre, downstairs after Mass. Coffee, tea, cakes, sweets, friendship with Cathedral parishioners. Further info: Tammy on smcperthwyd@yahoo.com.au or 0415 370 357.

Pilgrim Mass - Shrine of the Virgin of the Revelation 2pm at Shrine, 36 Chittering Rd, Bullsbrook.

Commencing with Rosary followed by Benediction.

Reconciliation available before every celebration.

Anointing of the sick administered during Mass every second Sunday of the month. Pilgrimage in honour of the Virgin of the Revelation last Sunday of the month. Side entrance to church and shrine open daily between 9am-5pm. Enq Sacri 9447 3292.

Praise and Worship 5.30pm at St Denis Parish, corner Osborne St and Roberts Rd, Joondanna. Followed by 6pm Mass.

Enq: Admin on admin@stdenis.com.au.

EVERY FIRST SUNDAY Singles Prayer and Social Group 7pm at All Saints Chapel, Allendale Sq, 77 St Georges Tce, Perth. Begins with holy hour (Eucharistic Adoration, Rosary and teaching) followed by dinner at local restaurant. Meet new people, pray and socialise with other single men and women. Enq: Veronica 0403 841 202.

EVERY SECOND SUNDAY Healing Hour 7-8pm at St Lawrence Parish, Balcatta. Songs of praise and worship, Exposition of Blessed Sacrament and prayers for sick. Enq: Fr Irek Czech SDS or office Tue-Thu, 9am-2.30pm on 9344 7066.

EVERY THIRD SUNDAY

therecord.com.au September 11, 2013

Oblates of St Benedict’s 2pm at St Joseph’s Convent, York St, South Perth.

We welcome all who are interested in studying the Rule of St Benedict and its relevance to the everyday life of today for laypeople. Vespers and afternoon tea conclude our meetings. Enq: Secretary 9457 5758.

Divine Mercy Hour 3pm at St Pius X Church, 23 Paterson St, Manning.

There will be Exposition of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Divine Mercy Prayers, Rosary and Benediction. Please join us in prayer. Enq: Mrs K Henderson 9450 4195.

EVERY FOURTH SUNDAY Shrine Time for Young Adults 18-35 Years 7.30-8.30pm at Schoenstatt Shrine, 9 Talus Dr, Mt Richon; Holy Hour with prayer, reflection, meditation, praise and worship; followed by a social gathering. Come and pray at a place of grace. Enq: shrinetimemtrichon@gmail.com.

Holy Hour for Vocations to the Priesthood, Religious Life 2-3pm at Infant Jesus Parish, Wellington St, Morley.

Includes Exposition of Blessed Sacrament, silent prayer, scripture, prayers of intercession. Come and pray that those discerning vocations can hear clearly God’s call.

EVERY LAST SUNDAY Filipino Mass 3pm at Notre Dame Church, cnr Daley and Wright Sts, Cloverdale. Please bring a plate to share for socialisation after Mass. Enq: Fr Nelson Po 0410 843 412, Elsa 0404 038 483.

EVERY MONDAY For You My Soul is Thirsting (Psalm 62:1) 7pm at St Thomas Parish, 2 College Rd, Claremont.

Tend to your thirst for God. Begins with Adoration, then 7.45pm - Evening Prayer; 8pm - Communion Service and Night Prayer. Come to the whole thing, or just to a part! Enq: Michelle: 0404 564 890.

LAST MONDAY Be Still in His Presence – Ecumenical Christian Program 7.30-8.45pm at St Swithun Anglican Church, 195 Lesmurdie St, Lesmurdie (hall behind church).

Begins with songs of praise and worship, silent time, lectio divina, small group sharing and cuppa. Enq: Lynne 9293 3848 or 0435 252 941.

EVERY TUESDAY Novena to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal 6pm at Pater Noster Church, Marmion and Evershed Sts, Myaree. Mass at 5.30pm followed by Benediction. Enq: John 0408 952 194.

Novena to God the Father 7.30pm at St Joachim’s parish hall, Vic Park.

Novena followed by reflection and discussions on forthcoming Sunday Gospel. Enq: Jan 9284 1662.

EVERY FIRST TUESDAY Short MMP Cenacle for Priests 2pm at Edel Quinn Centre, 36 Windsor St, East Perth. Enq: Fr Watt 9376 1734.

EVERY WEDNESDAY Holy Spirit of Freedom Community 7.30pm at Church of Christ, 111 Stirling St, Perth.

We welcome everyone to attend our praise meeting. Enq: 0423 907 869 or hsofperth@gmail.com.

Bible Study at Cathedral 6.15pm at St Mary’s Cathedral, Victoria Sq, Perth.

Deepen your faith through reading and reflecting on holy Scripture with Fr Jean-Noel Marie. Meeting room beneath Cathedral. Enq: 9223 1372.

Holy Hour - Catholic Youth Ministry 5.30pm at Catholic Pastoral Centre, 40A Mary St, Highgate. Mass followed at 6.30pm with Holy Hour. Enq: 9422 7912 or admin@cym.com.au.

EVERY FIRST WEDNESDAY Novena to St Mary of the Cross MacKillop 7-7.45pm at Blessed Mary MacKillop Parish, corner Cassowary Dr and Pelican Pde, Ballajura. Begins with Mass, novena prayers and Benediction.

Followed by healing prayers and anointing of the sick. Enq: Madi 9249 9093 or Gerry 0417 187 240.

EVERY SECOND WEDNESDAY Chaplets of Divine Mercy 7.30pm at St Thomas More Parish, Dean Rd, Bateman. Accompanied by Exposition, then Benediction. Enq: George 9310 9493 or 6242 0702 (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 consecrated life, especially in our parish. Concludes with veneration of the first class relic of St Faustina. Enq: John 9457 7771.

St Mary’s Cathedral Praise Meeting 7.45pm at the Legion of Mary’s Edel Quinn Centre, 36 Windsor St, East Perth. Includes praise, song and healing ministry. Enq: Kay 9382 3668 or fmi@ flameministries.org.

Group Fifty - Charismatic Renewal Group 7.30pm at Redemptorist Monastery, 150 Vincent St, North Perth. Includes prayer, praise and Mass.

Enq: Elaine 9440 3661.

EVERY FIRST THURSDAY

Holy Hour Prayer for Priests 7-8pm at Holy Spirit Parish, 2 Keaney Pl, City Beach.

All welcome. Enq: Linda 9341 3079.

Prayer in Style of Taizé 7.30-8.30pm at Our Lady of Grace Parish, 3 Kitchener St, North Beach. Includes prayer, song and silence in candlelight – symbol of Christ the light of the world. Taizé info: www.taize.fr. Enq: secretary 9448 4888 or 9448 4457.

EVERY SECOND THURSDAY Life in the Spirit Seminar 6pm at 2 King St, Coogee. The Resource Centre for Personal Development and Catholic Charismatic Renewal will hold seven sessions every second Thursday until October. Enq: Eva 0409 405 585.

FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY Social Dinner (Young Adults aged up to 35) and Rosary Cenacle 6.30pm at St Bernadette’s Church, 49 Jugan St, Mt Hawthorn. Begins at 6.30pm with dinner at a local restaurant, followed at 8pm by a Rosary Cenacle, short talk and refreshments at the church. Great way to meet new people, pray and socialise! Enq: 9444 6131 or st.bernadettesyouth@gmail.com.

EVERY FRIDAY Eucharistic Adoration at Schoenstatt Shrine 10am at Schoenstatt Shrine, 9 Talus Dr, Mt Richon. Includes holy Mass, Exposition of Blessed Sacrament, silent adoration till 8.15pm. Join us in prayer at a place of grace. Enq: Sisters of Schoenstatt 9399 2349.

Healing Mass 6pm at Holy Family Parish, Lot 375, Alcock St, Maddington. Begins with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Stations of the Cross, Healing Mass followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Enq: admin 9493 1703 or www.vpcp. org.au.

Eucharistic Adoration - Voice of the Voiceless Ministry 7.30-9pm at St Brigid’s Parish, 211 Aberdeen St, Northbridge. Eucharistic Adoration, beginning with praise and worship; and reflection to the scriptures. All welcome. Enq: adrianluke1999@ yahoo.com.au.

EVERY FIRST FRIDAY Mass and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament 11am-4pm at Little Sisters of the Poor Chapel, 2 Rawlins St, Glendalough. Exposition of Blessed Sacrament after Mass until 4pm, finishing with Rosary. Enq: Sr Marie MS.Perth@lsp.org.au.

Healing and Anointing Mass 8.45am Pater Noster Church, Evershed St, Myaree.

Begins with Reconciliation, then 9am Mass of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, anointing of the sick and prayers to St Peregrine. Enq: Joy 9337 7189.

Pro-life Witness – Mass and Procession 9.30am at St Brigid’s Parish, corner Great Northern Hwy and Morrison Rd, Midland. Begins with Mass followed by Rosary procession and prayer vigil at nearby abortion clinic, led by the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate. Please join us to pray for an end to abortion and the conversion of hearts. Enq: Helen 9402 0349.

Catholic Faith Renewal Evening 7.30pm at Sts John Paul Parish, Pinetree Gully Rd, Willetton. There will be songs of praise, prayer, sharing by a priest, then thanksgiving Mass and light refreshments. Enq: Ivan 0428 898 833 or Ann 0412 166 164 or catholicfaithrenewal@gmail. com.

Communion of Reparation All Night Vigils 7pm-1.30am at Corpus Christie Church, Loch St, Mosman Park or St Gerard Majella Church, corner Ravenswood Dr/Majella Rd, Mirrabooka. Vigils are two Masses, Adoration, Benediction, prayers, Confession in reparation for outrages committed against the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Enq: Vicky 0400 282 357, Fr Giosue 9349 2315, John/ Joy 9344 2609.

EVERY SECOND FRIDAY Discover Spirituality of St Francis of Assisi 12pm at St Brigid’s parish centre. The Secular Franciscans of Midland Fraternity have lunch, then 1-3pm meeting. Enq: Antoinette 9297 2314.

EVERY SATURDAY Teachers, Parents and Friends Mission Outreach 10am at Morley Parish Centre, 47 Wellington Rd, Morley. Meet during school terms. Primary English teachers and prospective aides offer their services for a small remuneration and donations from the tuition are distributed to missionaries. “Come and See” sessions are offered. Enq: Maggie 9272 8263, margaretbox7@icloud.com.

Children’s Religious Education Program (Pre-Primary and Year One): 11am–12.30pm at Our Lady Queen of Poland Parish, 35 Eighth Ave, Maylands. The official Perth Archdiocese Parish Religious Education Program gives an opportunity to children attending non-Catholic schools age-appropriate religious education in a creative and fun environment.

Families outside of Maylands welcome. Enq: Hayley 0423 008 500.

EVERY FIRST SATURDAY Vigil for Life – Mass and Procession 8.30am at St Augustine Parish, Gladstone St, Rivervale. Begins with Mass celebrated by Fr

Carey, followed by Rosary procession and prayer vigil at nearby abortion clinic. Please join us to pray for the conversion of hearts and an end to abortion. Enq. Helen 9402 0349.

Mission Rosary Making at the Legion of Mary 9.30am-2pm at 36 Windsor St, East Perth. All materials are supplied. The Rosaries made are distributed to the schools, missions and those who ask for a Rosary. Please join us and learn the art of Rosary making on rope and chain. Enq: 0478 598 860.

EVERY SECOND SATURDAY Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Succour) and Divine Mercy Chaplet (Chant) 8.30am at Our Lady of the Mission Parish, Whitford, 270 Camberwarra Dr, Craigie. Holy Mass at 8.30am followed by Novena. Enq: Margaret 9307 7276.

EVERY FOURTH SATURDAY Voice of the Voiceless Healing Mass 11.30am at St Brigid’s Parish, 211 Aberdeen St, Northbridge. Bring a plate to share after Mass.

Enq. Frank 9296 7591 or 0408 183 325.

GENERAL Free Divine Mercy Image for Parishes High quality oil painting and glossy print – Divine Mercy Promotions. Images of very high quality. For any parish willing to accept and place inside the church. Oil paintings: 160 x 90cm; glossy print - 100 x 60cm. Enq: Irene 9417 3267 (w).

Sacred Heart Pioneers Would anyone like to know about the Sacred Heart pioneers? If so, please contact Spiritual Director Fr Doug Harris 9444 6131 or John 9457 7771.

St Philomena’s Chapel 3/24 Juna Dr, Malaga. Mass of the day: Mon 6.45am. Vigil Masses: Mon-Fri 4.45pm. Enq: Fr David 9376 1734.

Mary MacKillop Merchandise Available for sale from Mary MacKillop Centre. Enq: Sr Maree 041 4683 926 or 08 9334 0933.

Financially Disadvantaged People Requiring Low Care Aged Care Placement The Little Sisters of the Poor community is set in beautiful gardens in the suburb of Glendalough.

“Making the elderly happy, that is everything!” St Jeanne Jugan (foundress). Registration and enq: Sr Marie 9443 3155.

Is your son or daughter unsure of what to do this year?

Suggest a Cert IV course to discern God’s purpose.

They will also learn more about the Catholic faith and develop skills in communication and leadership. Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation (National Code 51452).Enq: Jane 9202 6859.

AA Alcoholics Anonymous Is alcohol costing you more than just money? Enq: AA 9325 3566.

Saints and Sacred Relics Apostolate Invite SSRA Perth invites interested parties, parish priests, leaders of religious communities, lay associations to organise relic visitations to parishes, communities, etc. We have available authenticated relics, mostly first-class, of Catholic saints and blesseds including Sts Mary MacKillop, Padre Pio, Anthony of Padua, Therese of Lisieux, Maximilian Kolbe, Simon Stock and Blessed Pope John Paul II. Free of charge and all welcome. Enq: Giovanny 0478 201 092 or ssra-perth@catholic.org.

Enrolments, Year 7, 2014 La Salle College now accepting enrolments for Year 7, 2014. For prospectus and enrolment, please contact college reception on 9274 6266 or email lasalle@lasalle.wa.edu.au.

Acts 2 College, Perth’s Catholic Bible College Is now pleased to be able to offer tax deductibility for donations to the college. If you are looking for an opportunity to help grow the faith of young people and evangelise the next generation of apostles, please contact Jane Borg, Principal at Acts 2 College on 0401 692 690 or principal@ acts2come.wa.edu.au.

Divine Mercy Church Pews Would you like to assist, at the same time becoming part of the history of the new Divine Mercy Church in Lower Chittering, by donating a beautifully handcrafted jarrah pew currently under construction, costing only $1,000 each. A beautiful brass plaque with your inscription will be placed at the end of the pew. Please make cheques payable to Divine Mercy Church Building fund and send with inscription to PO Box 8, Bullsbrook WA 6084.

Enq: Fr Paul 0427 085 093. Donate Online at www. ginginchitteringparish.org.au.

Abortion Grief Association Inc A not-for-profit association is looking for premises to establish a Trauma Recovery Centre (pref SOR) in response to increasing demand for our services (ref.www.abortiongrief.asn.au). Enq: Julie (08) 9313 1784.

RESOURCE CENTRE FOR PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT - 2013 COURSES Holistic Health Seminar The Instinct to Heal (began July 25) Thursdays 11am-1pm; RCPD2 Internalise Principles of Successful Relationships, and Use Emotional Intelligence and Communication Skills, now on Thursdays 11am-1pm. 197 High St, Fremantle. Bookings essential. Enq: Eva 0409 405 585 or www.rcpd.net.au. Drop-In Centre and

CLASSIFIEDS

therecord.com.au September 11, 2013

19

CLASSIFIEDS Deadline: 11am Monday BEAUTY

PILGRIMAGE

TUITION

LOOK YOUNGER. The Younger You Mobile Clinic for facial rejuvenation. We come to you. Visit: www.youngeryouclinic.com.au or call 0478616781.

OCT 8-24. ROME/Italy/Assisi/ Loretto/Eucharistic Miracle (Lanciano)/Cave of St Michael the Archangel/San Giovanni Rotondo (Padre Pio) plus 6 nights Medjugorje. Overnight Dubrovnik.

Spiritual Director Fr Joseph Asnabun. Cost $3,999 includes flights, transfers, tipping, guides, bed, breakfast, and evening meals in Italy, and Medjugorje.

Enq: 9402 2480, 0407 471 256 or email medjugorje@y7mail.com.

PRIMARY LEVEL ENGLISH LESSONS. Morley Parish Centre 47 Wellington Rd Morley.

Small Group or individual.

Saturdays. Enq: Maggie 9272 8263 margaretbox7@icloud.com.

RURI STUDIO FOR HAIR Vincent and Miki welcome you to their newly opened, international, award-winning salon. Shop 2, 401 Oxford St, Leederville.

9444 3113. Ruri-studio-for-hair@ hotmail.com.

SERVICES BRENDAN HANDYMAN SERVICES Home, building maintenance, repairs and renovations.

NOR. Ph 0427 539 588.

PAINTERS IN PERTH since 1933. AJ Cochrane & Sons 08 9248 8211.

BRICK RE-POINTING Ph Nigel 9242 2952.

PERROTT PAINTING Pty Ltd For all your residential, commercial painting requirements. Ph Tom Perrott 9444 1200.

BOB’S PAINTING Registered and insured. Free quotes 0422 485 433 www.bobthepainter.com. au.

BOOKBINDING RESTORATION BOOKBINDING and Conservation; General Book Repairs, Bibles, Breviaries and Liturgical. Tel: 0401 941 577.

Now servicing the South-West @ Myalup.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY HOME-BASED BUSINESS. Wellness industry. Call 02 8230 0290 or www.dreamlife1.com.

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, no hidden costs.

Ring 9481 4499 for a quote.

Check our website on www. excelsettlements.com.au.

TAX SERVICE QUALITY TAX RETURNS PREPARED by registered tax agent with over 35 years’ experience.

Call Tony Marchei 0412 055 184 for appt. AXXO Accounting & Management, Unit 20/222 Walter Rd, Morley. Trade services.

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 and Wedding candles, etc. Visit us at 39 Hulme Ct (off McCoy St), Myaree. Ph 9329 9889 (after 10.30am Mon to Sat). We are here to serve.

KINLAR VESTMENTS www.kinlarvestments.com.au Quality vestments, Australianmade, embroidered and appliquéd. Contact Vickii for a quote - 08 9402 1318, 0409 114 093 or kinlarvestments@gmail.com.

FURNITURE REMOVAL ALL AREAS. Competitive rates.

Mike Murphy Ph 0416 226 434.

www.therecord.com.au

The Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church is a valuable resource either for personal reflection or for anyone enquiring about Catholic belief.

Pope Benedict XVI spoke of it as “a kind of vademecum which allows believers and non-believers alike to behold the entire panorama of the Catholic faith”.

Op Shop - Volunteers urgently needed at RCPD, 197 High St, Fremantle.

1) RCPD6 ‘The Cost of Discipleship’ This course combines theology with relationship education and personal/ spiritual awareness by teaching selfanalysis.

2) ‘The Wounded Heart’ Healing for emotional and sexual abuse promotes healing and understanding for the victim and the offender. Holistic counselling available - http://members. dodo.com.au/~evalenz/.

PERPETUAL ADORATION Would You Not Watch One Hour with Me? Adoration - St Jerome’s, Spearwood Adorers are needed. Please contact Mary 0402 289 418.

Pilgrimage: Following Christ and His Saints Fr Tim Deeter and Fr Michael Rowe will lead a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Italy, Jan 6-31, 2014. Israel and Jordan, Rome, Subiaco, Genazzano, Norcia and Cascia in Italy. $7,850 from Perth is allinclusive except your drinks and souvenirs.

Enq: casapgf@iinet.net.au or 9271 5253.

Acts 2 College of Mission & Evangelisation Competition Create a viral 30 second video that will promote Acts 2 College of Mission & Evangelisation and win a Samsung Galaxy Tablet 2.7” 8GB Wi Fi. Acts 2 is a Catholic Bible College under the authority of the Archbishop and a fully registered training organisation. Enq: 9202 6850 or http:// acts2come.wa.edu.au.

C R O S S W O R D ACROSS 2 Doctor Mirabilis, Franciscan friar who was one of the earliest advocates for the scientific method 7 Pilate ordered this above the cross (abbr.)

8 Near ___ of sin 9 “…the fish of the sea and the birds of the ___.” (Gen 1:26) 10 Biblical heroine 12 Confirmation gesture 13 Biblical measure 14 ___ Christi 15 Catholic United States Supreme Court justice 16 Creche 18 Catholic actor James who starred in “King of Queens” 20 Pharaoh refused to give this (Ex 5:10) 22 Symbol of the Holy Spirit 23 Medieval concept that was never an official teaching of the Church 24 The Lord’s Day 26 Starting point of the Exodus 28 This king allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1–4) 29 Number of New Testament letters that bear the name of a person 31 Script conclusion?

32 It might be to the priesthood 33 Paul and Silas’ prison doors after the earthquake (Acts 16:25–27) 34 Liturgical color.

DOWN 1 ___, talent, and treasure

W O R D

PANORAMA Deadline for submission is every Friday by 5pm the week prior to publication.

S L E U T H

2 3 4 5 6 11 12 16 17 19 21 22 23 24 25 27 30

He receives the fullness of Holy Orders Poor ___ (religious order) Direction from Jerusalem to Nazareth Judas’ surname Catholicism is the official religion of this tiny country Jesus referred to Himself as this, rejected by the builders Husband of Queen Jezebel First Greek letter in Jesus’ title Start of the Christian era Describes the soul Christian love Luke has these with his Beatitudes Reader at Mass Catholic one-time Republican National Committee Chairman Catholic actor Liam Jeremiah’s description of himself Number of choirs of angels

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

BOOKS ON POPE FRANCIS

NOW IN STOCK Two lines of caption goes here. Avoid flat description. PHOTO: ATTRIBUTION HERE

Pope Francis • Rabbi Abraham Skorka

ON HEAVEN AND EARTH RRP: $42 For years Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, archbishop of Argentina, and Rabbi Abraham Skorka were tenacious promoters of interreligious dialogues on faith and reason. They both sought to build bridges among Catholicism, Judaism, and the world at large. On Heaven and Earth, originally published in Argentina in 2010, brings together a series of these conversations where both men talked about various theological and worldly issues, including God, fundamentalism, atheism, abortion, homosexuality, euthanasia, same-sex marriage, and globalization. From these personal and accessible talks comes a first-hand view of the man who would become pope to 1.2 billion Catholics around the world in March 2013.

BIBIANA KWARAMBA Bookshop Manager

Telephone: 9220 5912 Email: bookshop@therecord.com.au Address: 21 Victoria Square, Perth 6000