The Record Newspaper 22 August 2007

DOH! Robert Lockwood searches for spirituality in The Simpsons Page 13

THEY GAVE EVERYTHING: Their story is little known, but the tale of the Chinese martyrs who gave their lives for their faith makes inspiring reading VISTA 1-3

Family extravaganza

Families can take heart - they will be the focus of a special Perth gathering in October

■ By Anthony Barich

A powerhouse line-up of guest speakers is descending on Perth for the Committee for Family and for Life’s Family Weekend from October 5-7 at Our Lady Queen of Apostles parish, Riverton.

A multicultural extravaganza including Filipino and Sudanese dancers and singers and a youth concert are in store as parishes, schools and all and sundry Catholic communities are invited to bring their banners to ensure the conference is as colourful is it is spiritually engaging.

Banners are to be centred on the theme, “What does family mean in your parish?”

All ages are catered for, with a children’s program on the Saturday presented by the Bethel Community, who have for years run a hugely successful education program aimed at developing children’s mental and spiritual core, based on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. The “hands on” activities will

Visiting

Key European Union expert to offer new possibilities on old problem as prostitution debate looms in WA

present an experience of God at work through everyday events, scripture and liturgy, taking advantage of the normal char-

Sweden’s former Special Advisor on Human Trafficking and Prostitution will visit Western Australia to speak at a special evening meeting at Notre Dame University on September

DISCOVERING OUR GIFT

CLARA GEOGHAN has an interesting job. She helps people to discover their vocational gifts and to use them. She’s coming to Perth in September to share what she knows. Page 5

acteristics of various age groups.

“Celebrate Youth” on the Saturday night, headlined by Canberrabased guest speakers Karen and

20. Gunila Ekberg, who was responsible for overseeing the introduction of Sweden’s new laws on prostitution in 1999 and who has just accepted a similar role at the European Union

Jonathan Doyle from Choicez Media, includes a youth expo, student art, bands including the winner of the massive Goliath Battle of

headquarters in Brussels, will brief the public on the Swedish approach and the current issues affecting prostitution and exploitation of women for sex. She is being brought to

the Bands concert, drama, dance and games.

Celebrate Youth is all about youth and their families – a chance for young people from all over the State to come together, have fun and hear about how they can make their family great.

Choicez Media is Australia’s leading provider of values-based Continued - Page 12

Western Australia by the Catholic men’s organisation the Knights of the Southern Cross; her visit is being coordinated by a wide-ranging committee Continued on Page 12

FOUNDING FATHER

One of Perth’s great bishops, MARTIN GRIVER, is about to become the subject of a full-scale biography written by a Perth author. His was a fascinating

The Parish. The Nation. The World.

Qld battles over cloning debate

Queensland MPs were under pressure this week to make up their minds on a “conscience vote” to allow human cloning in their state. The cloning process, which involves creating then destroying human embryos to create “stem cells” for use in medical therapy, has already been legally cleared in NSW and Victoria and by the Commonwealth parliament, despite strong opposition from the Church and prolife groups. On the morning that The Record went to press, the cloning bill was listed as item number 12 for debate for that day’s debate in the Queensland parliament.

Victoria to decriminalise abortion

Pro-abortion forces won a significant political victory when new Victorian Premier John Brumby said he would take steps to decriminalise abortion in the state. While technically legal and widely available in Victoria thanks to a judicial ruling, abortion remains listed in the state’s Crimes Act. It is this remnant of the treatment of abortion as a crime which proabortion lobbyists wish to remove. Opposing the decriminalisation moves, Melbourne auxiliary Bishop Christopher Prowse said to keep abortion listed in the Crimes Act would send a “good message” to the community.

Celibate priests deemed necessary

Archbishop Philip Wilson published a reflection on priestly celibacy for his archdiocese of Adelaide, in which he said modern society needs the example of celibate priests and religious. “More than ever in modern life, when we are constantly tempted to think that life is what we make of it and that we can fulfill all our own hopes and dreams as long as we don’t give up, we need the witness of the celibate who has been graced to direct those deepest human longings towards God,” he wrote.

A LIFE OF PRAYER

...areyoucalledtotheBenedictinelifeofdivine praiseandeucharisticprayerfortheChurch?

TYBURN NUNS

Contact the: Rev Mother Cyril, OSB, Tyburn Priory, 325 Garfield Road, Riverstone, NSW 2765 www.tyburnconvent.org.uk

Liturgical guidelines launched

By Anthony Barich

■

Perth parish musical directors now have clarity in their mission with the Archdiocese’s Centre for Liturgy’s release of Liturgical Guidelines for those preparing Eucharistic Celebrations last week.

“Raise Your Voice To God”, a 24-page booklet, is designed to help parish ministers to select music that reflects the realities of the Mass so as to draw all members of the parish community more deeply into the Paschal Mystery.

Archbishop Barry Hickey, who commissioned the booklet after the success of last year’s liturgical music resource “Sing a New Song”, launched “Raise Your Voice To God” at St Mary’s Leederville parish centre last week.

It was prepared by Chris deSilva, a Centre for Liturgy volunteer for over 10 years and musical director of Julian Singers, a liturgical choir.

“Hymn books are one thing, but there’s a lot more you need to know before you can work effectively as a parish musician,” said Mr deSilva, who prepared the booklet drawing from documents produced from and since the Second Vatican Council.

Mr deSilva said he believed the Archbishop commissioned the booklet as he saw a need for people preparing liturgies for schools and parishes, who needed a better understanding of what they are doing.

This was confirmed when the Archbishop said that his

conversations with some musical directors revealed they thought liturgical music was what is sung during the collection or the offertory.

The Archbishop said: “There is a difference between sacred music and liturgical music”.

“Liturgical is the actual text of the Mass, it is part of the celebration which is not filling in the gaps to add atmosphere. It is about participating in the liturgy itself.

“This is idea is not new, but for some people it is new.” He admitted that some people see music as a distraction from the Paschal Mystery and not conducive to silent prayer.

“So we need to help them see that it actually draws them deeper into the sacred mysteries of the Mass,” he said. “We need to think biblically – the Last Supper is intimately connected with the death and resurrection of Jesus. So we must bring it alive.”

The central idea behind the resource, the Archbishop said, is participation in the Eucharist, according to the Second Vatican Council’s directive for full, active and conscious participation in the Mass.

The comprehensive guide for liturgical music for parishes starts with the theology behind why the liturgy is celebrated, saying: “In the liturgy the Paschal Mystery continues to unfold until the end of time.

“Music and music ministers are servants of the liturgy, not its masters. Music ministers must always be conscious of the fact that their ministry

exists to enhance the prayer of the assembly.”

As the resource lists the parts of the Mass that can be put to music, Mr deSilva says people will be surprised when they see there is in fact a huge array of areas that can be sung, “and because there are so many, parishioners should develop a bigger repertoire than just knowing how to sing the usual things”. The three main things

to assess when considering music for liturgy are musical, liturgical and pastoral factors: Is it good music, does it serve the liturgy and does it help people to pray.

The resource is available to all country and metropolitan parishes of the Archdiocese of Perth for $10, though it is not mandatory. Contact the Centre for Liturgy on 9207 3350 for a copy.

Singing a new song: Simon Montgomery from Impact Catholic Ministry, Archbichop Barry Hickey and Claire Soulsby, assistant principal in RE at St Emilie’s School in Canning Vale.

PHOTO: ANTHONY BARICH.

God’s Farm celebrates consecration

A popular retreat centre for priests, religious and lay alike celebrates 20 years

■ By Sylvia Defendi

God’s Farm in Wilyabrup, located almost 200km south of Perth, is inviting all those who have experienced the tranquillity of the 77hectare property to celebrate 20 years of consecration to the Lord.

On September 26, 1987 Bishop Peter Quinn, then Bishop of Bunbury, consecrated the stone chapel on God’s Farm – ‘The Perfect Joy of Jesus and St Francis.’

More than 120 people celebrated this event, merely one year after the land was purchased and dedicated to God.

Since then the premises has survived on providence and offered many retreats, with the first visitors being Monsignor Daniel Downey and Fr Kevin Condon, who arrived

on August 1, 1986. “Over 21 years ago God’s Farm opened its doors to whomever God sent. Today we are still open to all who are seeking God in the quiet,” director at God’s Farm, Betty Peaker, said.

From September 28 to 30 all who have been a part of God’s Farm over the years are invited to an anniversary retreat titled, ‘Rejoicing in God Our Saviour.’

Those who cannot stay the whole weekend are invited to attend a High Mass that will be held at 11am in the stone chapel on September 29.

Lunch will be provided for visitors afterwards along with an opportunity to share memories with others.

“Due to health reasons this may be one of the last retreats I will be conducting at God’s Farm,” Ms Peaker said.

A bus has been booked for the retreat, which will travel directly from Perth to God’s Farm.

For more information contact Ms Peaker on 9755 6212.

As priest and son celebrates for folks

■ By Sylvia Defendi

“It’s hard to find the right words, when you are both the priest and the son,” commented Fr Vincent Glynn, who celebrated Mass in honour of his parent’s 50th wedding anniversary on Sunday, August 19.

Many friends and family who had been present at their wedding on August 17, 1957 joined Tom and Maureen Glynn at St Cecilia’s Church in Floreat.

Anniversaries

If you’re celebrating your 50th, 55th, 60th or so on, and would like to share your good news for publication, write to us at: The Record PO Box 75 Leederville, 6902 email: sdefendi@therecord.com.au; or fax: (08) 9227 7080.

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Among these was retired priest Fr Daniel Foley, who concelebrated the anniversary Mass and had wed the couple at St Joseph’s Church in Subiaco many years ago.

Maureen met Tom at an Irish Club social event, and in the words of their son, Fr Glynn, “soon set out on a journey, not knowing what lay ahead but confident none the less in their love for each other and in God’s presence in their lives.”

That journey saw the couple raise six children and enjoy the presence of four grandchildren.

I’m John Hughes, WA’s most trusted car dealer

Is it true I have my own finance company to assist good people with poor credit to buy cars from me?

Is it true I sell over 1,300 vehicles every month in Victoria Park and that is the biggest number from any one location in Australia?

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Is it true that if somebody buys a used car from me, I will pay for a prepurchase RAC or similar inspection?

Perfect Joy of St Francis: God’s Farm chapel in Wilyabrup, and inset, the intimate setting inside.

PHOTOS: SYLVIA DEFENDI

Big day: Fr Vincent Glynn with his parents, Maureen and Tom and Fr Daniel Foley, who wed the couple 50 years ago.

PHOTO: SYLVIA DEFENDI

Youth offer WYD resource

New publication aims to fire up parishes

■ By Anthony Barich

Australian Young Christian Students (YCS) and Australian Young Christian Workers (YCW) have released a comprehensive 92page resource for parishes, schools and communities around Australia to evangelise leading up to World Youth Day.

On Fertile Ground: Preparation and Formation Towards WYD08, released late last month, is endorsed by the Bishops’ Commission for Pastoral Life and is the first of three resources to be released over the next year.

The next, The Holy Spirit Comes: Making the most of Days in the Diocese and World Youth Day Week, is due for release in September this year and will detail how to make July 2008 a more meaningful experience through reflection and action.

After that, You Will Be My Witnesses: Living as Church after WYD08, supports youth to move forward in Christian life postWYD. It has practical ideas, strategies and activities to help young people and those working with them in parishes, dioceses and schools to gather young people, develop their leadership and prepare pilgrims to journey towards WYD 2008.

GreatReading

All three supplements were created by YCS and YCW to make WYD08 a genuine experience of formation for young people.

All activities and advice are based on the YCW motto of “see, judge, act”, and include outlines of how to run meetings, including WYD Office material like the Activ8 DVD.

The supplement offers advice on logistics – spiritual, practical and financial – on what needs to be done to get the most out of WYD.

Country profiles of Cambodia, France, Lebanon, South Africa and the United States are given, as well as details on how Australian youth can help international pilgrims visiting Australia for Days in the Dioceses.

The resource offers tips for preparing young people for pilgrimage and developing leadership among WYD pilgrims from both overseas and Australia.

Guidelines are also given to deepen youth’s understanding of the Holy Spirit to discern the WYD theme, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses”.

The information package also gives guidelines to help youth share their faith experiences and past WYD journeys with visiting pilgrims.

The resource gives examples of

“everyday witnesses” like Blessed Marcel Callo, a Young Christian Workers member who helped refugees in France during Germany’s invasion in 1940; and Australia’s most likely first official saint, Blessed Mary MacKillop, who founded the Josephite Sisters and provided education for poor children.

Focus groups are invited to reflect on these and other local examples of active Australian youth, with an eye to evangelising before WYD.

Bishop Eugene Hurley, chairman of the Bishops Commission for Pastoral Life, recommended On Fertile Ground for the preparation of pilgrims in local parishes.

“The Australian Church has been granted a momentous opportunity in the hosting of World Youth Day 2008,” said Bishop Hurley, who was recently appointed to replace retired Bishop Ted Collins as Bishop of Darwin.

“It represents an opportunity for engagement of a broad range of young people in connecting their lives and faith.”

Electronic copies are free of charge.

Hard copies can be ordered by contacting YCW on (08) 94227910 or YCS on (08) 9422 7911.

Hard copies cost $10 each, including postage and handling.

At 54 acres, Mass site should hold all

There’s plenty of history behind the site of the opening Mass for WYD ‘08

SYDNEY, Australia (CNS)Barangaroo, a stretch of waterfront named after the wife of an Aborigine who befriended the first British settlers to Sydney, will be the venue for the opening Mass of World Youth Day on July 15, 2008 in Sydney.

A Sydney newspaper reported that the 54-acre site, situated on the eastern side of Darling Harbour, will be a main venue for other World Youth Day events, including the Stations of the Cross.

Barangaroo will also make “a dramatic and telegenic backdrop” to the arrival, by boat, of Pope Benedict XVI on his first visit to Australia, said the newspaper. Barangaroo is named after the wife of Bennelong, a leader of the Eora clan of Aboriginal people who befriended Sydney’s first governor, Arthur Phillip, in 1788.

Situated in the next inlet along from where the Sydney Opera House sits on Bennelong Point, Barangaroo is a former shipping container terminal

earmarked for an urban renewal project. The announcement of the venue pre-empted an official announcement by the NSW government and the WYD Organising Committee, which are negotiating with port authorities and a stevedore company whose lease on the property is due to expire at the end of the year.

In late August, the government of New South Wales was due to receive an independent review detailing the impact of the WYD vigil and closing Mass on racing operations at Randwick Racecourse.

The review also will deal with WYD’s shared access to the track with horse trainers and other suppliers who say their businesses will suffer because of the disruptions.

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Perth ‘Called and Gifted’

A new program is coming to Perth, which calls all those discerning to realise their gifts and learn to act upon them with greater knowledge.

■ By Sylvia Defendi

Perth is being called to embrace a new vocations awareness program that is set to assist Catholics from all walks of life in discerning their chosen path and how best to fulfil the will of God in their lives.

The ‘Called and Gifted’ program was developed by the Catherine of Siena Institute in America, whose mission is “to foster the proclamation of the gospel to all the world by ensuring that lay Catholics are equipped to effectively carry out their unique and essential part in this mission.”

“A significant number of Parishes around Australia have already discovered this program and are in various stages of imple-

menting it,” said principal Jane Borg. The program comes to Perth with the support of Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation and The Record

With the approval of Archbishop Barry Hickey, the ‘Called and Gifted’ program is especially useful for parishioners, young adults discerning their career or vocational direction, parents assisting children to live their faith and recognise their gifts, those in transition, whether it be changing jobs, returning to work or facing retirement, new or returning Catholics exploring what it means to live their faith as an adult, Catholics discerning a call to religious life or ordination, or parish staff and leaders, who want to nurture and empower parishioners.

“Every Christian, through Baptism and Confirmation, receives special gifts from the Holy Spirit called charisms.

“Discerning your charisms can determine God’s plan for your life, as well as your role in God’s plan for humanity.

“Knowing your charisms can help you make better decisions, simplify your life, excel at work,

Stumped? The Called and Gifted program will help Catholics discern their vocation.

free yourself from envy and better appreciate your family’s gifts,” Mrs Borg said. The program has three stages, beginning with an initial workshop, followed by personal interviews and finishing with a six-week discernment period.

The initial workshop, for those interested, will held at John XXIII College Theatre and be conducted on September 21 and 22.

“We are hoping many lay

Thoughtful leaders thanked

■ By Paul Gray

The President of the bishops’ conference says he feels deeply honoured that Australia’s two leading party politicians are taking the Christian faith so seriously.

Archbishop Philip Wilson was invited to put the first question to both Prime Minister John Howard and Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd during the recent live internet broadcast of their meeting with Australian Christian leaders in Canberra.

Up to 100,000 churchgoers viewed the meeting live via the internet at venues around the country.

Commenting on an event without precedent in the history of Australian electioneering, Archbishop Wilson told The Record that he found the event “very worthwhile.”

He said he was “deeply honoured” that both the Prime Minister

and the Opposition Leader took the event so seriously. “They were very thoughtful in their responses,” Archbishop Wilson said.

As President of the Australian bishops’ conference, Archbishop Wilson has known both men per-

sonally for some time. He said that the public meeting with other church leaders present had confirmed for him the same impression both had made at a personal level. “What is striking is the level of agreement they both have on the importance of the Christian contribution to this country, and to the history of this country,” the Archbishop said.

Both leaders had emphasised their commitment to recognising the Christian faith, he said.

Archbishop Wilson said great credit should go to Mr Jim Wallace and the Australian Christian Lobby for organising the event.

“I was very impressed by the breadth of representation from Christian churches,” he said.

Asked if he saw a future for such meetings, perhaps in state as well as federal elections, Archbishop Wilson commented: “My hope would be that this kind of model is one that we would use into the future.”

Catholics will take up the opportunity of attending this workshop; however, it will be most effective when parish priests also participate,” Mrs Borg said. Australian Director of the Siena Institute, Clara Geoghegan, who has been working out of the Archdiocese of Melbourne’s Office of Evangelisation for the past two years, will be leading Perth’s initial workshop and will then return

for a follow-up workshop in a few months, and to commence training of Perth leaders and interviewers.

Once facilitators and interviewers have been trained, Perth Catholics will be in a position to continue training other Catholics within the Archdiocese and eventually within wider Western Australia.

For more information, contact Jane Borg on: 9202 6859.

Join Pope Benedict XVI in prayer - August

General intention: Those suffering in turmoil - That those who are suffering with inner difficulties and trials may find in Christ the light and support that leads to authentic happiness.

Mission intention: Church in China That the Church in China may grow in unity and in visible communion with the Pope.

Not all problems are resolved before bedtime

The old saying says not to let the sun set on an argument. However, in truth it’s not always the best policy. Research shows that arguments where there is a high level of anger are often best left to the following morning. Taking the time to calm down before resuming the argument is more likely to help couples to stay close.

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Archbishop Philip Wilson

Camillians depart to strengthen numbers

■ By Anthony Barich

A new chapter has been written in the Archdiocese of Perth’s grand history with the departure of three dedicated Camillians, says Archbishop Barry Hickey.

Filipino Camillian Fathers Nilo Deligero, Dado Haber and Reggie Jamorabon depart for Westmead, Sydney on September 3 where the Order’s Foundation of the Filipino Province is based.

Archbishop Hickey said his diocese “has not got rid of them”, stressing that he went all the way to the top of the Order to keep priests of an Order dedicated to health care ministry.

Fr Haber confirmed this, saying it was better that all the Filipino Camillians be united to strengthen the charism of St Camillus de Lellis, who founded the Order in 1591 in Rome before it was introduced to Australia in 1963 at Carlisle from Killucan, Ireland.

“It’s mixed emotions as we’re leaving behind a long history of our Order’s involvement in Perth, but we’re happy as we’ll be together in one community to concentrate our energy in our ministry,” Fr Haber said.

The Camillians have chaplains at Westmead General Hospital, Westmead Children’s Hospital, Nepean Hospital, Mt Druitt Hospital and Westmead’s Sacred Heart parish. The Order also has a foundation in Parramatta.

The diocese now needs to find replacement chaplains for Princess Margaret, King Edward, St John of God Subiaco and Charles Gairdner Hospitals, where the three Filipino priests were based.

Fr Sean Bredin, Hollywood Hospital chaplain and parish priest of St Aloysius, Shenton Park, will return to the AngloIrish Province next January.

Two other Camillians remain – Brother Eric Perrett and retired Fr Patrick Holmes.

While Archbishop Hickey said it would be difficult to replace them, it is understood a senior, middle-aged priest currently in charge of a large parish has already been earmarked, who will need two assistants.

“We fought hard to keep them”

■ By Anthony Barich

No one was sadder than Archbishop Barry Hickey that his Archdiocese will lose three Camillians who service its three major hospitals.

At the farewell Mass of Filipino Camillian Fathers Nilo Deligero, Dado Haber and Reggie Jamorabon at the St John of God chapel last week, the Archbishop stressed that “the diocese

A succession plan for Fr Bredin is in place, with Melkite Father Andre Nahhas, currently assistant to Fr Alfonsas Savickis at St Brigid’s Northbridge, to start as his assistant on August 27. Fr Bredin, one of the first two Camillians – with Fr John Cleary - to respond to

has not got rid of them. It’s not our fault”. He said he fought tooth and nail to keep the trio as their departure now means he needs to find three diocesan priests who can service Princess Margaret, King Edward, Charles Gairdner and St John of God Subiaco Hospitals.

“We’ve done our very best to hold them – we went right to the top,” Archbishop Hickey said.

“It’s simply due to the Order’s internal restructuring that we lost them.”

Archbishop Redmond Prendiville’s request to establish a Foundation in the Archdiocese 44 years ago, broke down in tears when mentioning the loving welcome he received from former Perth Auxiliary Bishop Miles McKeon at the time. Fr Cleary died in May 1977. “Bishop McKeon is a great friend of

the Order since his first visit to our Head House in Ireland as a newly ordained priest in 1947,” said Fr Bredin, who arrived in Perth on September 30, 1963.

“He was one of the first to welcome us to Perth. In the words of the chronicler of those days, he ‘came to greet with outstretched arms as a gesture of immense welcome. To us he seemed the happiest man alive’.”

The Camillians established the Mount St Camillus Nursing Home in 1965, which is soon to be bulldozed as the adjacent Southern Cross Care centre expands.

Archbishop Hickey acknowledged and thanked the Camillians for their friendship and work in the life of the Archdiocese, using the example of Fr Bredin, a former member of the Parish Council.

“The Camillians have shown in a special way that the Church treats the sick with love, as we see in them the image of Christ suffering,” the Archbishop said.

“It’s also important to realise that when the Camillians are in hospitals, they are often surrounded and supported by Religious and lay people who work with them and they too must be acknowledged for their care of the sick.”

Fr Bredin said the Camillians’ work reflects a response to Jesus Christ’s call to imitate His love as a means of building up the kingdom of God.

“Jesus’ ministry was a vibrant witness to the power of God’s healing and reconciling love,” he said.

“His ministry radically changed the lives of persons he encountered. But it had broader effects. His ministry addressed the underlying causes of poverty, sickness and suffering.

“That is, it addressed the attitudes, prejudices and biases which were in the hearts of people and in the social structures of His day, causing divisions within the community.

“It was this work that Jesus handed over to His followers and which the people of God, the Church, is called to continue.

“The call to be God’s transforming presence in the world is extended to every person of faith.”

Student to explore life of Bishop Martin Griver

Odhran O’Brien will be completing his Masters with a thesis on the recently unearthed Bishop of Perth whose influence on the local Church is only beginning to be revealed in detail

■ By Anthony Barich

Being commissioned to write 50,000 words on one man is enough to make any university student shudder, but Odhran O’Brien takes it on as a labour of love.

Odhran has been granted a scholarship by the Archdiocese to do his Masters at the University of Notre Dame Australia on Bishop Martin Griver, one of two Perth bishops unearthed under St Mary’s Cathedral late last year.

Odhran, assisting in cataloguing the information from the archaeological dig under the Cathedral as a UNDA history student with University of WA archaeology students, was fascinated, and thought all his Christmases had come at once when the Archdiocese was considering compiling a biographical work on Bishop Griver.

“I love history, and the excavation of the bishops at St Mary’s Cathedral is living history,” he said.

“We’re seeing something extraordinarily unique here.”

He was “totally blown away” in 2006 when he toured Vatican City and its mausoleum, so entering the vault of St Mary’s Cathedral almost a year later brought the reality of the history of the Church and its relevance to today’s world into sharp focus for him.

“Griver was brought up in Catholic Spain, which has very different traditions to our own,” said Odhran, who completed a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in history and literature.

“The fact that he was a humble man is so important. That’s what makes it so applicable to the Church today.”

Odhran says we need Bishop Griver’s brand of humility today, especially in the light of the world we see unfolding around us.

“We live in a world today that is so materialistic and centred on the self, yet here we have a shining example of a man who did not live for himself, but lived for a higher purpose,” Odhran said.

“This is why it is so important to research and publish works about his life – because he is an example of humility.”

The 1870 census of the colony revealed more about the importance of the man, as it declared 28.72 per cent of the population was Catholic – the highest percentage in the history of the State.

This massive proportion of the population of the colony in Western Australia was the diocese the Bishop administered, both spiritually and physically.

“That fact, in itself, is one of the central reasons he needs to be investigated,” Odhran said.

The main focus of Odhran’s investigation is to evaluate his life in the colony – how he administered the faith and the diocese.

For seven years, Odhran says, the Bishop administered the diocese with no official title.

Odhran says this is further evidence of the man’s humility.

“He didn’t care about titles,” Odhran said.

“He just wanted to get the job done. He just wanted to serve the people.”

There has been much written about the history of the Church in WA, but, oddly, not a huge amount on Bishop Griver.

Perth Archbishop Launcelot Goody’s biography of Bishop Griver will be the starting point for Odrhan, but he will have to dig deeper than that.

His research will take him to the Battye Library, the State Records office, Catholic Archives.

He will also scour archives of The Record, The West Australian, The Gazette and any other newspaper or newsletter that he can get his hands on.

This week he will travel to New Norcia, where some letter books will hopefully reveal more about the Bishop.

Odhran is convinced there is a wealth of information out there about the life and times of Griver. He just has to look in the right places.

“In fact, I could probably write 100,000 words on Griver, but you have to be sensible about these things,” he says.

If that’s the case, then 50,000 words will be a walk in the park.

Farewell: Perth’s departing Camillian priests, Fr Reggie Jamorabon, Fr Dado Haber and Fr Nilo Deligero at their farewell Mass at St John of God Subiaco chapel. PHOTO: ANTHONY BARICH.

Eagerly awaiting the task: Odhran O’Brien. PHOTO: PETER ROSENGREN.

Perth history enriched

Archdiocesan Historical Commission formed

■ By Anthony Barich

Archbishop Barry Hickey has taken the advice of the Archdiocesan consulters and established an Archdiocesan Historical Commission.

The consulters were called together by the Archbishop on July 18 and recommended the commissioning by the Archdiocese of research into the life and times and the contribution to the history of the Church in WA of successive bishops and archbishops.

The Archdiocesan Historical Commission, formed by decree of the Archbishop on August 14, will consist of diocesan archivist Presentation Sister Frances Stibi, former editor of The Record Fr Pat Cunningham, former Australian Medical Association WA president and professor of psychiatry Dr Paul Skerritt, archaeologist and history professor Dr Shane Burke and two lay people yet to be announced.

Archbishop Hickey has broadened the scope by announcing at the farewell Mass for the Camillian Fathers who have worked in hospital chaplaincy in the Archdiocese for the last 44 years that the Order also be included in the historical pursuit.

Fr DF Bourke’s The History of the Catholic Church in Western Australia, used as a study resource by WA seminarians, was published in 1979, but the Historical Commission wants to delve deeper into the personalities, activities and circumstances about the key playmakers like the succession of bishops.

The Historical Commission will eventually cover the period since Fr Bourke’s history concluded.

The Archdiocese has awarded Odhran O’Brien - an Arts graduate from the University of Notre Dame Australia’s Fremantle campus - a two-year Masters research scholarship for publication by the Archdiocese on Bishop Martin Griver.

Mr O’Brien, a Willetton parishioner, was hand-picked by the Archdiocese after he worked with Geraldton priest Fr Robert Cross who has been seconded to the Archdiocese and based at St Mary’s Cathedral, where he has rendered invaluable service with his archaeological investigation and cataloguing of his finds from St Mary’s Cathedral as published in The Record

Dr Skerritt’s involvement with the Historical Commission follows his own article published by The Record that revealed Bishop Griver’s background as an accomplished medical practitioner.

Bishop Griver was a Spanishborn priest who devoted special attention to the welfare of convicts and poor and orphaned children, and who was found underneath St Mary’s Cathedral late last year.

Mr O’Brien, will work under the guidance of Dr Burke.

While Mr O’Brien works on Bishop Griver, the Historical Commission is compiling information to produce an authorised biography on Bishop Gibney, in part using historian Joan Carney’s article published in Irish historical journal “Breifne” in 2001.

Born in 1837 in County Caven, Ireland, Bishop Gibney is known as the man who gave Ned Kelly and

his gang their last rites at their last stand at Glenrowan when he was Vicar General of Perth, while in Victoria to beg for money for the orphanage in Subiaco now known as the Catherine McAuley Centre.

But Bishop Gibney’s legacy extends beyond stories that have become part of Australian folklore.

He had a hand in many major Catholic sites of Perth, and indeed has shaped parts of its very landscape.

Bishop Gibney acquired the Hill of Tara, Leederville, on which stands the Catholic Education Office and the Chapel of St Michael the Archangel.

With a keen eye for the future, he also acquired an extensive tract of swampy land that he drained to form Lake Monger and Herdsman’s Lake; and as this reminded him of the Irish valley of Glendalough, in which the monastic community of St Kevin in County Wicklow was based, he named the suburb thus.

In Irish folklore, St Kevin is recorded as attracting so many sons of noblemen and commoners alike to his monastery that his contemporaries described them as “like bees to a hive”.

He also acquired the site on which St John of God Hospital sits in Subiaco, and the Little Sisters of the Poor’s house in Glendalough, which is appropriate considering the association with Glendalough was originally St Kevin’s trade school.

He also bought the site of the Redemptorist Monastery in North Perth and the Catholic Pastoral Centre in Highgate, which was originally the convent of the Our Lady of the Missions’ convent.

He bought the site for the Presentation convent and the adjacent Iona College in Mosman Park, which celebrates its centenary this year.

Many other Church and school sites dotted around Perth can also be traced back to the Bishop.

Bishop Gibney’s successor to the Vicar General post, Fr O’Loughlin, relates that his predecessor was “larger than life”.

He travelled from Albany to the Kimberleys and was a friend of the famous historical figure Daisy Bates, an Irish early pioneer who worked with and had a unique understanding of Aborigines.

The story of Bishop Gibney and Australia’s most famous outlaw has become the stuff of legends.

While in the eastern states begging for money for the orphanage, his train travelling from Melbourne to Sydney stopped at Glenrowan as the Kelly gang was holed up at the local Shamrock Hotel.

Gibney, then Vicar General, realised there would be Catholics among the police and the gang, so left the train to offer the sacraments to the embattled gang.

Kelly, who had been shot in the legs and presumed to be dying, received the sacraments from thenFr Gibney, who then asked the outlaw if he should go inside the burning hotel.

Kelly told him not to, as the priest would be mistaken for a ruse of the police and probably shot. But as the flames took hold of the hotel, he could wait no longer and, “casting caution to the wind and trusting only his God”, as Fr O’Loughlin tells it, Fr Gibney crashed through

the f lames to find gang member Joe Byrne dead and others injured and dying.

When he called out to the police and the crowds that the danger had gone, the townsfolk rushed into the bar, as one of their innocent mates was still hidden in there.

Bishop Gibney was also the one who encouraged one young William Kelly in his study and vocation for the priesthood, and the young man went on to study at All Hallows college, Ireland and was the first locally-born priest who, in 1898, was appointed the first Bishop of Geraldton.

In his declining days, Bishop Gibney in 1902 bought shares in daily newspaper The Morning Herald, which by 1908 was on the brink of bankruptcy.

As his diocese was becoming increasingly mortgaged, Rome asked for his resignation, which he gave in 1910.

The Redemptorist Archbishop Patrick Clune, who upon his appointment reportedly said, “I accept the heavily mortgaged mitre of Perth”, succeeded him.

Though he may have been forced to resign, Bishop Gibney’s legacy lives on today in not only the life of the Church but in the landscape of Perth itself.

PRINCIPALSHIPS

ST ANDREW’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL, CLARKSON

St Andrew’s Catholic Primary School commenced in 1997 with classes from Kindergarten to Year 2. It is now a double stream co-educational school with a current enrolment of 454 students from Kindergarten to Year 7.

Committed staff work with students to foster an ongoing atmosphere of respect for self, others and the environment. Ongoing implementation of the program Making Jesus Real, supports those efforts.

Literacy is a focus in the school and the RAISe (Raising Achievement in Schools) project commenced in 2006. There is a Literacy Support teacher for Years 3-7 and specialist teachers for Music, Library, Physical Education, Indonesian and Dance. The school regularly participates in the Performing Arts Festival and competes in regional interschool sporting events.

Strong relationships and cooperation exist between the school and parish. This year the celebration of school liturgies in the new church (completed in 2006), built adjacent to the school, has been appreciated by the school community. Built over several stages, the school environment has been enhanced through the efforts of the Parents and Friends’ fund-raising over the years, which has resulted in an enclosed undercover area and the near completion of airconditioning throughout the school.

ST BERNARD’S SCHOOL, KOJONUP

St Bernard’s is a small Catholic rural primary school located in the vibrant farming community of Kojonup, 2½ hours south of Perth. With a student population of approximately 90 children, St Bernard’s caters for students from Kindergarten to Year 7 in composite classes. Founded in 1952 by the Sisters of Mercy, the school reflects the strong connections with Mercy aspirations and ethos.

Strong emphasis is placed on the development of Literacy and Numeracy skills, with Early Intervention programs firmly established. A Literacy Support teacher co-ordinates programs and supports classes, small groups and individual activities. During 2007 the school introduced RAISe (Raising Achievement in Schools) and the new science Primary Connections program. Specialist programs in the areas of Physical Education, Art and LOTE (Japanese) operate within the school.

St Bernard’s has a vibrant and committed staff and has strong links with the parish. There is an active Parents and Friends’ Association and a supportive School Board which ensure that pastoral care and best educational outcomes are the focus of the school community.

ST MATTHEW’S SCHOOL, NARROGIN

St Matthew’s is located in a regional centre of approximately 5000 people, 200kms south east of Perth. The school caters for 178 students from Kindergarten to Year 7.

The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions founded the school in 1918, and the school has been supported by the Sisters of the Order of the Servants of Mary, commonly known as the Sisters of Servite Order. St Matthew’s motto is Concern, which is reflected in the school’s life.

St Matthew’s is focused on the development of a whole-school approach to Literacy and implementing revitalized Learning Support and Enrichment programs. The school is currently implementing the Friendly Schools and Families program and is also introducing the School Volunteer program, which will involve school and local community members. Specialist programs operate in Physical Education, Information Technology, Music and LOTE (French).

A Capital Development Plan has recently been completed which extended and upgraded the administration and teaching learning areas with the establishment of an Information Technology laboratory.

The school is serviced by a hard working and dedicated staff and parent body, and the School Board and Parents and Friends’ Association are active and involved in the school. There are also strong links between the school and parish. The successful applicants for these positions will be required to commence on 1 January 2008. Applicants need to be practising Catholics and experienced educators committed to the objectives and ethos of Catholic education. They will have the requisite theological, educational, pastoral and administrative competencies, together with an appropriate four-year minimum tertiary qualification and will have completed Accreditation for Leadership of the Religious Education Learning Area or its equivalent. A current WACOT registration number must also be included.

The official application form, referee assessment forms and instructions can be accessed on the Catholic Education Office website www.ceo.wa.edu.au Enquiries regarding these positions should be directed to Helen Brennan, Consultant, Leadership Team on 6380 5237 or email sch.personnel@ceo.wa.edu.au All applications, on the official form, should reach The Director, Catholic Education Office of Western Australia, PO Box 198, Leederville 6903 no later than 31 August 2007 (Clarkson and Narrogin) and 7 September 2007 (Kojonup).

Part of Perth’s rich history: Bishop Martin Griver.

Archbishop Barry Hickey has begun a series of short talks on his website explaining the Beatitudes and their application in daily life. All the talks may be found on Archbishop Hickey’s website at www.perthcatholic.org.au

Review of four Beatitudes

IPerspectives

n our last few talks we have seen how the first four of the beatitudes are the pathway out of the false self system, leading us into the fullness of our humanity – or the kingdom of God.

We have seen how our instinct for survival and security can lead us to put our faith in things as the source of our happiness and self-esteem. This only leads to insecurity, fear of scarcity, and the need for more and more wealth or possessions.

The real source of human happiness is poverty of spirit, which is the gift of putting our faith in the abundant goodness of God instead of in things or our own power. When we empty ourselves of attachment to things, we create space for the gifts of God to come into our life.

We have also seen how the natural desire for pleasure can easily lead us to excess, which never satisfies. It is only the strength gained through suffering that comes into our life or through self-denial and self-discipline that we can grow towards true freedom and happiness, symbolised by the Cross of Christ.

The exercise of personal power is the way we express ourselves in this life. It becomes distorted when we try to suppress or control the personal power of others.

The beatitude of meekness – which is how Jesus described himself – is the strength of character to accept others as they are. It enables us to teach and lead others if needed, but without the urge to control them.

The beatitude of justice enables us to treat everyone as our neighbour. It also gives us the freedom to act with justice and without prejudice regardless of pressure from political or social groups we belong to.

These four beatitudes enable us to free ourselves from the pull of natural human tendencies that are easily distorted.

The remaining beatitudes enable us to use our reason and our will to choose to cultivate our spiritual nature – our true self. This is the path trodden by all the saints and all those who want to become fully human. We will examine each of these beatitudes over the next few weeks.

Next week - Blessed are the merciful; they shall obtain mercy

School options for the poor

letters to the editor

Around t he tabl e dnuorA t eh

Time to act

In South Asia today, across India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan more than 40 million people have been affected by the worst floods on record. More than 3000 people are reported to have lost their lives. Millions have been forced from their homes. Tens of millions need urgent and ongoing assistance including food, medical supplies, clean water and shelter. These rains are among the worst on record. In 33 of Bangladesh’s 75 districts and in Bihar and Orissa in the North of India, the floodwaters are

Rudd’s oxymoron

Kevin Rudd told TV journalists he regretted going to a New York strip club while drunk in 2003. “I’m a married man. I shouldn’t have been there,” he said.

But he shouldn’t have been there even if he were single. Strippers have a high suicide rate - reflecting the demeaning nature of their job and the fact that many who enter the sex trade have been sexually abused as children. Stripping - and subsequent ogling and pawing by male customers - compounds the abuse.

“Gentlemen’s Clubs” are an oxymoron.

Roslyn Phillips Tea Tree Gully, SA

not receding as they have previously.

Caritas staff on the ground in the Indian state of Bihar report that more than 3000 people are thought to have been killed in that district alone. Unlike the prosperous areas of India like Bangalore and Bombay, Bihar is one of the poorest in India. More than 60% of the total population of 90 million live below the poverty line of $1 per day. You can be assured that the worst affected by the floods are those who have the least.

Such dramatic statistics challenge the compassion of us all. What are we doing to assist the poorest of the poor, especially when they are at their most vulnerable?

Twenty dollars can provide enough food for a family for one week. We are a rich in Australia and these are challenging questions. How much can we afford to give? Perhaps it comes down to how much we value a human life.

Tim O’Connor, Caritas Australia, North Sydney

Embryo research OK: Jesuit

The Church teaches research on embryos left over from IVF process is not morally permissible. Jesuit Fr Frank Brennan says it is.

■ By Anthony Barich

Fr Brennan

Two recent reports on the state of education in parts of Australia have offered striking differences in attitudes towards the poor.

In a pastoral letter calling for reform of Catholic schools, the Catholic Bishops of New South Wales and the ACT expressed concern that Catholic schools were not doing enough to educate the poor. They may, in fact, adopt the WA system that offers substantially reduced fees for holders of the Commonwealth means tested health care card.

In a less public document that was nevertheless reported on the front page of the morning newspaper last Saturday, the WA Secondary School Executives Association (WASSEA) expressed concern that State high schools would ‘degenerate into a collection of residual or safety net institutions attended by only those unable or unwilling to pay additional charges’.

The school principals who make up WASSEA were concerned about more things than the fate of the poor, but nonetheless they express a surprising attitude to the poor.

After all, it is the function of the State to ensure that all children – and particularly the poor – have access to education, and it ought to be (and in many cases is) a matter of pride to teachers in the State system that they provide the freedom of education to all who ask for it.

It is therefore surprising to find the Catholic system concerned that it is not doing enough for the poor, and the principals of the State system concerned that they might end up working ‘only’ for the poor. The Catholic attitude is not surprising; the system has a long history of providing secondary education at low fees (or none at all) when there was little secondary education provided by the State. The WASSEA attitude is.

Admittedly, it came in a classic example of catastrophe thinking: Without the “radical shift” in education we propose, “public secondary schools will inevitably degenerate…”, (something which is itself an argument for educational reform), but that does not justify the underlying attitude. The likelihood of public secondary schools being ‘left only for the poor’ is extremely remote, but even if it occurred it would serve only to maximise the importance and value of the work, not minimise it. A State system genuinely committed to the well-being of the poor would be a blessing.

There is little doubt that the education system needs to be reformed – provided it is improved in the process – and we wish the members of WASSEA success in their pursuit of better ways of organising and delivering education to students and teachers. The process will not be helped by an underlying attitude that “the poor” are somehow not suitable subjects for the new improved system. Editorial

Addressing about 50 people last week at the University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle on “The Mix of Law and Religion: Lessons from the stem cell debate”, Fr Brennan, a professor of human rights and social justice at UNDA, said he has a theological problem with not allowing research on left-over embryos from the IVF process that will die anyway.

“The theological problem I have with all of this (opposition to research on leftover embryos) is that the latest scientific information as I understand it would suggest that even in the natural cycle of things, anything up to half the human embryos which are created never implant,” he said. “Now, do we really believe theologically that God creates half of the human race for death before they reach two cells? What does this mean - that there are half the human souls that never know anything beyond a two-cell life?”

He admits that “self-respecting scientists would all concede at this stage that there is nothing to indicate that there will be something we can specially do with embryonic stem cells that we could not do with other adult stem cells, but I don’t think that lets us off the hook in this argument... I don’t think we can just glibly say, ‘oh well, embryonic stem cells hasn’t yielded anything’, and therefore simply rule them out,” he said.

However, in “Instruction for

respect to human life in its origin and the dignity of procreation: Replies to certain questions of the day”, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, said:

“It is a duty to condemn the particular gravity of the voluntary destruction of human embryos obtained ‘in vitro’ for the sole purpose of research.” In another part of the document, the thenCardinal said: “If the embryos are living, whether viable or not, they must be respected just like any other human person; experimentation on embryos which is not directly therapeutic is illicit.” John Paul II approved this before ordering it to be published.

Fr Brennan said: “We can show respect for all embryos, not just treating them as a means to an end, by giving every embryo created an opportunity to be selected for implantation and growth to term. At the end of an IVF procedure, we then have the choice of letting the excess embryos succumb or permitting experimentation for the good of humanity. We abandon universal respect for embryos, and simply use them as a means to an end, when we create some embryos with no intention of giving them the opportunity to be selected for implantation, creating them with the sole purpose of experimentation and destruction.” But he said “there is a difference between life that already exists – the case with excess IVF embryos – and creating life specifically to experiment on it destructively”, using the analogy of according a woman and her doctor the prerogative of abortion of the

“non-viable foetus”. “We would regard the situation of a couple deliberately conceiving only for the purpose of aborting the foetus as ethically unacceptable. It would be no answer for them to say that they never intended the foetus to have any social or relational significance,” he said. Appointed by Minister for Ageing Julie Bishop to review Australia’s Prohibition of Human Cloning Act 2002 and the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002, the Lockhart Committee set a 14-day limit on embryos for experimentation. Fr Brennan said this meant that the “social or relational significance” of an embryo, as defined by the Lockhart Committee, does not change at 14 days – a problematic theory, he says. “What if Singapore scientists discover that an eightweek-old SCNT (somatic cell nuclear transfer) embryo is very useful or at least interesting?” he said. “The highly-esteemed Professor Jack Martin from Melbourne University has told the Senate Committee that ‘any research on embryos generated in this way for the study of disease would certainly require embryo development beyond 14 days’.” But Fr Brennan said that acknowledging these ethical barriers does not mean that we have more respect for a human embryo than for a person with motor neurone disease. He said that if a house blaze contained a person with motor neurone disease and in another room is a Petri dish with human embryos and there is time to enter only one room, “the ethical firefighter will rescue the person”. “That does not mean it is ethical to create human embryos only for the purpose of destructively experimenting on them in the hope of finding a cure for motor neurone disease.”

August 22 2007, The Record

Vista

Feast of Augustine Zhao Rong and 119 companions

The Feast Of St Augustine Zhao Rong and 119 companions, commonly called the 120 martyrs of China, was celebrated on July 9. The feast was included for the first time in the Ordo for the Singapore Archdiocese although it has been included in the Roman Ordo for five years.

Among the 120 martyrs were 87 Chinese and 33 foreigners. Augustine Zhao Rong was neither the first of the martyrs nor the one highest in the Church hierarchy among them – there were seven bishops, but none native.

Augustinus Zhao Rong (1746-1815) was placed first on the list because he was the first native priest martyr. A native mandarin of Guizhou, he was baptised a Catholic aged 30 and ordained a priest five years later.

His desire for baptism came after his service as one of the soldiers who escorted Monsignor Dufresse (another of the 120 martyrs who was later beheaded) from Chengdu to Beijing.

Rome decides who is to be canonised (there are many thousands more who died for the faith in China but have not been canonised).

By giving the 120 Chinese martyrs the status of universal

memorial celebration, Rome affirms their importance to the universal Church and to the Church in China.

“I know that you are spiritually united with us, and I am certain that you understand that this is a special moment of grace for the whole Church and for the entire Catholic community in China,” Pope John Paul II said to Catholics in China at the canonisation ceremony on October 1, 2000.

He prayed that the new saints would “comfort and sustain” the Catholics in China. “Like them you bravely and generously bear witness to your fidelity to Jesus Christ and to your genuine love of your people,” he said.

Martyred

China’s First Saints

Catholics as young as seven have met their maker in China for the sake of His name. As their feast day passed recently, we honour them.

Catholic Martyrs: 120 (1814 & 1900) Priests: 2500

Religious tolerence: freedom of religious belief allowed under constitution Roman Catholic Status: Officially banned

group of 120 Chinese and European martyrs spanning three centuries were canonised by Pope John Paul II at an October 1, 2000 ceremony in St Peter’s Square.

Eighty-six of the martyrs were killed about a hundred years ago in China’s anti-foreign Boxer Rebellion, in which an estimated 30,000 Catholics were killed. Those canonised range in age from seven to 79. They include 87 Chinese nationals, all lay men and women except for four priests. The other 33 were missionaries from Spain, France, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands: seven bishops, 18 priests, one religious brother and seven nuns.

Spanish Dominican Father Francesco Fernandez de Capillas, beheaded in 1648 while reciting the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary, is recognised by the Church as China’s first martyr.

The other martyrs include: — Five Spanish missionaries killed in a wave of persecutions in southeast China in the mid-18th century. One was beheaded; the others were suffocated or strangled.

— 26 people killed between 1816 and 1862 in a series of antiChristian edicts issued by two successive Chinese emperors, including a French priest betrayed by a Chinese Christian for 30 coins and a 57-year-old Chinese man who was executed two days after being baptized.

— 86 Catholics killed in the Boxer Rebellion, including 39 lay Chinese men and 27 lay Chinese women.

Among them are two Jesuits killed at a church altar and a Chinese man who protested at his trial that he was a Christian over the attempts of his friends to testify otherwise.

Spreading the Good News: Italian missionary Bishop Luigi Versiglia, pictured here sometime before 1920 as a young priest in his Cantonese mission, gives a catechesis. The Bishop was killed by renegade Communist soldiers in 1930. He is among the 120 martyrs of China.

CHINA

My family’s martyrs

DURING THE 1900 BOXER UPRISING, 2,418 CATHOLICS were killed in Shanxi province. Among them were 69 Catholics in Taiyuan, including the grandfather and uncle of Father FRANCIS LI FUMING, who were killed between July 9-14, 1900. Twenty-six of them were among the 120 martyrs whom Pope John Paul II canonised on October 1, 2000, but Father Li’s grandfather and uncle were not among them.

Father Li, a native of Taiyuan, was ordained a priest in Hong Kong in 1957. He presented recollections of his mother and father on the killing of his grandfather and uncle at a Singapore Mass last month to commemorate the canonisation of the 120 martyrs. Following is the text of what Father Li said...

THE GOSPEL TELLS us that everyone who follows Jesus will not only receive a hundredfold reward, but they will also meet with persecution.

Jesus noticed Peter’s reaction to these words. So at the Last Supper he repeated them to his disciples: “If the world hates you, realise that it has hated me before you... If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (John 15:18-20).

The history of the Church informs us that the Church grows in the midst of persecution. “The blood of martyrs is the seed of Christians.” This is the reason that the Church in China has been growing.

I feel very honoured to be able to give testimony about the martyrs in my own family and hometown. They were really martyrs for the faith.

The word “martyrdom” in the context of the Christian faith means to witness to one’s faith and even to sacrifice one’s life for one’s faith.

For example, when speaking of the Boxer Revolution of 100 years ago, if you were ordered to support the Qing Dynasty government, and you were killed for not doing so, this would not be considered martyrdom. However, the Boxers ordered the missionaries and the Christians to renounce their faith.

They were killed because they refused to do so. This is called martyrdom.

During the persecutions in the year 1900 in Shanxi Province, the names of 2,418 Christians were reported to the Vatican as giving their lives for their faith. In Taiyuan City altogether 69 persons were martyrs for the Lord. From these, only 26 were canonised as saints on October 1 of that year.

The 69 martyrs gave up their lives on three different days, July 9, 12 and 14. Two lay women died on July 12, and 39 Catholics died on July 14. Among them were my grandfather Li Zhongyi and an uncle, Li Shiyan. Three others were seriously wounded including my father, Li Shiheng.

What follows here is the testimony of the experiences of my mother and my father at that time.

THE FOLLOWING IS my mother’s report (in her own words):

“At about 4 o’clock on the afternoon of July 9, just as we were reciting our prayers, we suddenly heard beautiful music coming from the heavens. “We had never heard such music before. Suddenly we saw an orderly row of large white banners coming towards us from Taiyuan City.

China’s Five Religions

“When the banners passed over our heads the music got louder and more pleasant to the ear. Everyone clasped their hands on their hearts and knelt down. We began to encourage one another, and to think that this was certainly a sign that the bishops and priests had already given their lives for their faith.

“Sure enough, the next day a band of soldiers came to our place and announced that the bishops and others had been killed.

“Then we all thought that the time had arrived for us to give up our lives for our faith. We all began to prepare ourselves by continuously reciting prayers.

“After a little while a soldier shouted at us: ‘Do you deny your religion or not?’ Not a sound was heard in response.

“Then the soldier shouted an order that two of the older Christian women should be strung up in the garden.

“He did this to arouse a fear of death in the hearts of the younger women.

“The two older women were not in the least afraid. They continually encouraged the younger ones, saying, ‘Young ladies, don’t be afraid; now the gate of heaven is open; quickly prepare yourselves to ascend into heaven!’

“On July 12 some of the officials came again

and tried to frighten us into denying our faith. Again they were met with dead silence. Then the officials took down the two older women who had been strung up and brought them outside. In a little while, the soldiers brought in two bowls of blood, and told us that it was the blood of the two women whom they had killed. They did not kill us, but sent us back to the church.”

THE FOLLOWING IS (based on) my father’s report:

“On July 14, Yuxian, the governor of Shanxi Provi nce, issued an order: “All male Christians who are unwilling to deny their faith must gather near the North Gate.” When the Catholics heard this order they became very excited and their hearts were filled with joy.

“They all began marching towards the appointed place. Along the way they supported and encouraged one another.

“My grandfather was one of these fervent Catholics. As soon as he heard the order, he said to my then 15-year-old father and my uncle, “Let’s go, we’re going to go to heaven today!” He then said goodbye to his family, and began walking towards the place of martyrdom.

“From their home to the appointed place was only about a 20-minute walk, but they had to pass through some winding streets.

When they arrived at the place of martyrdom, many Catholics had already gathered there. Most people knew one another. The place was not very large and the Christians were many.

“Each one was barely able to find space for himself. Everyone knelt down in a very composed manner and began to recite their favourite prayers. According to the custom of the time, the men wore the pigtail.

“In order to make it easier for the executioner to kill them, each one brought the pigtail forward over their heads and held it in front of them with their hands.

“They also bent their backs forward and stretched their necks out as far as they could.

“In this way there was enough space for the sword to strike them cleanly. ☐

“THEY WAITED FOR over three hours in the morning, and there was still no sign of the executioners.

“The Christians began to become agitated. Was it possible they would be denied the crown of martyrdom? Then about noon, a band of executioners, led by some soldiers, arrived at the place. The volume of the Christians’ prayers grew louder. And they stretched their necks even straighter.

C“At the sound of the command “Kill”, the executioners began swinging their swords helter-skelter. My grandfather and uncle were kneeling along the path of the square. Their heads were swiftly and cleanly severed from their bodies. It so happened that my father was kneeling next to a large rock.

“Therefore when the sword came down, most of it struck the rock, and it only cut open some flesh on his neck. His throat was not damaged. Because the Christians were many, the executioners did not pay close attention as to whether the heads of everyone were separated from their bodies.

“In this way my father was denied the privilege of seeing God face to face, as my grandfather and uncle did.

“The swordsmen had executed only about 10 per cent of the Christians when the commander gave the order to stop the killing. The soldiers and executioners began to return to their barracks. The Catholics who had not been martyred were greatly disappointed. They blocked the withdrawal of the executioners, beseeching them to kill them also. But nothing could be done. The order had already been given.

“The executioners would not wield their swords again. The Christians fell into each other’s arms weeping.

“My grandfather and uncle were among the 39 martyred for the faith that day.

“My father was wounded but survived. He would later say, “When the sword of the executioner came down upon my neck, the only thing I felt was the coldness of it.

“Then I lapsed into unconsciousness.

“I lay in a pool of blood for two days and two nights. I do not know how much blood I lost.” On the morning of the third day, that is, July 16, a non-Christian was passing by, and he noticed a slight movement among the corpses. He went closer, and saw that it was someone he knew.

“Then he heard my father whisper, “I am thirsty.” This good-hearted person, realising that (my father) had lost a lot of blood, took some rainwater from a puddle in a piece of broken crockery, and drop by drop poured it onto his lips.

“He then ran to my grandmother to report that her son was still alive.

“She brought him to live temporarily in another village located about 10 miles from the city. No medicine was applied to my father’s wound, nor did the family have any money to have injections or to buy pills. My grand-

A brief history of the Catholic Church in China

atholic scholars and sociologists sometimes refer to the current religious revival in China as the country’s fifth evangelisation. They consider the first evangelisation occured when an Assyrian monk, Alopen, brought Christianity across the Silk Road to what is now Xi’an, China, in the seventh century.

The period was commemorated with the erection of the Nestorian Stone, a 10-foot-high tablet that describes Christian doctrine and ceremonies, the development of Christianity in China and the support Christianity was given by some emperors of the Tang Dynasty.

The stone contains doctrinal, historical and eulogistic contents that most scholars say could be accepted by all Christians today.

The stone is preserved in the Provincial Museum of Shaanxi, in Xi’an. Late in the 13th century, Italian Franciscan Fr John of Montecorvino became the first Catholic missionary to China, and the period that followed became known as the second evangelisation.

In 1307, Pope Clement V made Fr John an Archbishop for his success at converting some high-level Chinese officials, baptising about 6000 people and erecting churches.

The Franciscans operated in China for nearly 100 years; the New Catholic Encyclopedia indicates that in 1368 China might have had as many as 30,000 Catholics, although most did not belong to the majority Han ethnic group.

Early in the 16th century, Jesuits, Franciscans, Augustinians and Dominicans tried to gain a foothold in China but could not make it past the port of Guangzhou, where they were allowed to stay for short periods.

Later in the 16th century, Italian Jesuit Fathers Michele Ruggieri and Matteo Ricci took up residence in Zhaozhou, dressing first as Buddhist monks, then as Confucian scholars. With their displays of scientific instruments from the West they gained the respect and protection of several Confucian literati.

Father Ruggieri returned to Europe to try to get more support, and Father Ricci was able to settle in Beijing in 1601.

The Jesuits later helped reform errors in the imperial calendar, which increased the missionaries’ prestige.

By 1635, other religious orders began arriving in China, and soon the country was divided into territories for the religious orders.

By 1700 the Catholic Church had about 200,000 Chinese members, but the so-called Chinese Rites Controversy stunted development of the Church.

Franciscans, Dominicans, Augustinians and members of the Paris Foreign Mission Society objected to Jesuit acceptance of Chinese rituals used to honour ancestors as well as to Chinese names for God.

Papal decrees in 1715 and 1742 banned the Chinese Rites, and the emperor reacted by prohibiting the preaching of Christianity and by ordering the deportation of missionaries who did not use them. This period in the 16th and 17th centuries is known as the third evangelisation.

The fourth evangelisation occurred in the mid-1800s, when the Treaty of Tianjin guaranteed religious liberty for all Christians, including those in China’s interior region. Multiple missionary orders returned to China, and the Vatican began organising ecclesiastical territories under the orders’ jurisdiction.

These flourished until the communist takeover in 1949 and the subsequent suppression of the Church, including the expulsion of foreign missionaries and the imprisonment and torture of religious during the 1966-76 Cultural Revolution.

The fifth evangelisation is identified as beginning in the 1980s, when China began allowing the practice of religion.

Some scholars say that, unlike the other evangelisations, which depended on foreign missionaries, this era is marked by Chinese Catholics keeping and transmitting the faith.

mother just entrusted my father to God’s care. God will arrange everything, she thought. Miraculously, the wound closed and became completely healed.

Later, when my father narrated the story of his near-martyrdom to others, he always said:

“From the time I received my wound until it was completely healed, I never felt any pain. Doesn’t that prove that God is always with me?”

HEARING ABOUT THE experiences of the martyr-saints causes us to feel that what Saint Paul wrote was right: “No creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus Our Lord” (Romans 8:39).

Through the intercession of the martyr saints of China, let us ask the Lord to help us follow their example and witness to the Gospel in our daily lives by loving God and loving others.

Martyr: Fr Callisto Caravario, talian Salesian priest killed in 1930 by renegade Communist soldiers in China, is among the 120 martyrs of China. CN

Martyr: Bishop Luigi Versiglia, Italian Salesian priest killed in 1930 by renegade Communist soldiers in China, is among the 120 martyrs of China. CNS

Opinion

Ladybird, ladybird, don’t fly away

Guy Crouchback

Any parent of young children who finds the British Ladybird series of little books for children at a secondhand bookshop or book-sale should snap them up.

They had many series about history, general knowledge, “how to” etc, for children. They were wellillustrated and, as far as I can see, accurate.

The “readers”, stories written to encourage children to read and increase their vocabularies, also had a sunniness and innocence about them refreshing to encounter. In the introduction to his last collection of writings, Enough Said, the British journalist Bernard Levin sounded a note of despair at the darkness of what he had to deal with:

awfulness might never be shovelled away ...”

another boy in a moated castle is trying to signal them.

hospital. They are asked to stay at the castle until he recovers.

I was not just giving you a catalogue of crimes and other wickednesses. I was driving into my readers’ heads, and into my own, that terrible thought that the growing pile of awfulness might never be shovelled away ...”

- Bernard Levin

Ransome’s children’s stories about sailing and camping are plausible. It is also a gentle and innocent story, set in a world in which it is taken for granted that it is normal to behave well, and to be kindly and helpful.

“What has happened? ... I tried to give you brightness, my readers, but I fear that I have failed. I was not just giving you a catalogue of crimes and other wickednesses. I was driving into my readers’ heads, and into my own, that terrible thought that the growing pile of

I think we all have feelings like that sometimes, particularly any professional commentators on the state of the world, and the little stories in the Ladybird Readers are, in their way a good antidote.

There are much worse models of life to present to children than the stories in the Ladybird Readers - and they teach reading, too. Unlike some readers which are so boring that they put children off reading, there is some suspense, and the “plausibility” of the situation enables children to make contact with the story as they could not with something more obviously fantastic (which is not to deny fantasy’s place in story-telling). In their way, these little books are works of art. I have a notion that gentle and innocent stories like this, if re-issued today, might prove popular and successful enough to take the publishing industry by surprise. i say, i say

Take Adventure at the Castle, book Number 10b in The Ladybird Key Words Reading Scheme, published in 1968. The plot is simple: two boys on holiday find that

Q & A with Q & A with Father

Flader

I have often heard people refer to “merit” and the idea of “meriting” something from God. Can you please explain exactly what this is?

Merit in general is the reward earned for a good deed, although it can also be the punishment owing for a misdeed. It is related to the notion of “deserving”, so that when someone does a good deed they are deserving of a reward, and when they do something harmful they are deserving of punishment.

When we speak of meriting something from God we are, of course, speaking analogically or improperly, since, as the Catechism explains, “With regard

They eventually discover that he is not doing this simply as a game but because he is alone in the castle with his uncle who is very sick and needs help, and he can’t get out.

The situation of a boy isolated with a sick old man and trying to summon help is not exactly everyday, but it is at least plausible.

The boys succeed in getting help, and the old man is taken to

They find a treasure in a secret compartment there - not a fantastic, unbelievable hoard, but a modest, realistic one: four rings and six coins. Three of the coins are gold and the boys receive a reward of two of the coins each: one gold and one silver.

Not many children really have such an adventure, but the story is plausible in the way that Arthur

Merits of our goodness is God’s gift

to God, there is no strict right to any merit on the part of man.

Between God and us there is an immeasurable inequality, for we have received everything from him, our Creator.” (CCC 2007)

That is, we have no strict right to claim a reward from God.

He owes us nothing, whereas we owe him everything, including our very being.

Everything he gives us is a free gift, a great blessing.

It is not owed to us in justice.

Quoting St Augustine, the Catechism explains: “The merits of our good works are gifts of the divine goodness. ‘Grace has gone before us; now we are given what is due… Our merits are God’s gifts.’” (St Augustine, Sermon 298, 4-5; CCC 2009)

Even though by ourselves we can make no claim on God, God in his mercy has promised to reward us for our good deeds.

For example, Jesus says: “And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and will inherit eternal life” (Mt 19:29). And St

Paul writes: “For he will repay according to each one’s deeds: to those who by patiently doing

And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and will inherit eternal life.”

- Mt 19:29

good seek for glory and honour and immortality, he will give eternal life.” (Rm 2:6-7)

What can we merit from God? Obviously we cannot merit the initial grace of being converted to God.

That grace is God’s gift to us, given when we are living in sin, even though we do correspond to the grace by our free actions.

But once converted and living in God’s grace as his adoptive children, we can then merit

further grace for our growth in holiness and for the attainment of eternal life.

The Catechism explains: “Moved by the Holy Spirit and by charity, we can then merit for ourselves and for others the graces needed for our sanctification, for the increase of grace and charity, and for the attainment of eternal life.

“Even temporal goods like health and friendship can be merited in accordance with God’s wisdom. These graces and goods are the object of Christian prayer.” (CCC 2010)

Through our good deeds we thus grow in grace and holiness and are deserving of a greater reward in heaven in accordance with Our Lord’s words: “… store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” (Mt 6:19)

In order to deserve merit, we must fulfil several conditions.

First of all, we must be in the state of grace, that is, not in the state of mortal sin.

While in the state of sin, our good deeds, no matter how many or how generous, are not deserving of merit. That is why, among

other reasons, it is so important to return promptly to God through the Sacrament of Reconciliation after committing a mortal sin. Secondly, we can gain merit only for good deeds, not for sinful ones. Sinful deeds merit punishment, not reward.

Nonetheless, a person in the state of sin, by doing good deeds and cooperating with God’s grace, establishes some claim on God’s mercy and can then receive the grace needed for conversion. Thirdly, we must do the good deed knowingly and freely, a condition which is usually presumed in an adult. An infant or a seriously mentally handicapped person does not have sufficient use of reason to do a meritorious act. Nor to commit a sin, for that matter. It is also helpful to remember that when we commit a mortal sin we lose all the merit we have acquired, so that we are no longer deserving of heaven, but we regain this merit when we return through contrition and confession to the state of grace. Questions for Fr Flader should be directed to administration@therecord.com.au or mailed to The Record, PO Box 75, Leederville WA 6902.

Wealth of knowledge: Some old-school books, if given half a chance, can provide kids with wonderful tales of adventure.

Bishops launch campaign to end abuse

■ By Paul Gray

The Church’s National Committee for Professional Standards has launched a major campaign to eliminate the possibility of child abuse from the life of church communities around Australia.

Churches around the country will receive posters and take-home cards promoting the National

Committee’s new theme, Our Church – a safe community for all

The National Committee’s Protection and Prevention Officer, Sr Angela Ryan, said that parishes will be asked to focus on the program on Sunday September 9, which “marks the conclusion of Child Protection Week.”

The special take-home cards to be distributed through church communities urge Catholics to be aware of the possibility of

In a Source Document issued with the launch of “Our Church – a safe community for all,” the National Committee for Professional Standards provides much of the background thinking which has led to this initiative. National affairs editor Paul Gray probes some of the key quotes in the Source Document.

“The Program looks to the prevention of abuse by all members of the Catholic Church – employers, employees, volunteers, priests and religious.”

- Our Church - a safe community for all

Prevention of abuse by all Catholics, lay and religious, and also by all non-Catholic members of society, is obviously a laudable and desirable aim. But when it comes to the Catholic Church in particular, where does the greatest danger of abuse actually lie? It is hard to imagine volunteers on piety stalls as serious threats to children. Where the problem has arisen, it has rather amongst a few members of the clergy, and of educational religious orders, who have abused the authority their status within the Church has given them.

At this point in their text, the National Committee is

abuse, but not overly suspicious. Individuals, including volunteers, should also willingly undertake checks required by State and Church agencies, and “be open to acquiring a deeper understanding of the harm caused by abuse,” according to the card.

The National Committee for Professional Standards is chaired by Bishop William Morris and Br Peter Burke, who said the program is part of the Church’s ongoing

commitment to preventing abuse.

“Over recent years, the Catholic Church in Australia has taken steps to address the issue of sexual abuse by Church personnel,” they said.

“To date, much of the focus has been on providing, through Towards Healing, an appropriate and compassionate response to those who have suffered abuse within our Church.

“While continuing to respond to allegations being brought forward

seeking to justify an all-embracing program to combat abuse within the Church, not just among male clergy.

The Source Document asks numerous questions for personal reflection, including:

“Should we give someone a second chance?”

- Our Church - a safe community for all

The answer to this depends, of course, on what they’ve done. For example, if a member of our parish community gets angry with us and says something hurtful, then the Gospel would counsel us to forgive and make friends with them again.

But only a fool would say that an inveterate pedophile should be given a second chance.

What has allowed abuse by church personnel to develop? 1. The trust and naivety by church community members (as in the wider society) and the strong belief that abuse was perpetrated exclusively by strangers. 2. The ability of the perpetrators to exploit the most vulnerable and to make it appear that they are being exceptionally caring.

- Our Church - a safe community for all

These strong words from the National Committee – posing the hard question, and giving unflinching answers

under Towards Healing, the Church has also taken steps towards prevention of abuse, especially with clergy, religious and those engaged in ministry within the Church.

“The next step is to introduce a program to engage the broader Catholic community by raising awareness and understanding of the impact of abuse, not just on the individual and the family concerned, but on the whole community.”

- demonstrates how long exposure to, and reflection on the fall-out from the abuse scandals of recent years have led to a clear-eyed, realistic understanding of the sources of these scandals.

Catholics have been asking precisely this question for years now.

While the answer gives no comfort to anyone, it shows that the responsibility for prevention must, in some measure, be shared by the whole community.

It is our belief that a commitment to following the example of Jesus by respecting the dignity of each person will assist us to work together for the protection of all and for the prevention of any form of abuse – physical, sexual, emotional or spiritual – within our church communities and organisations.

- Our Church - a safe community for all

This is probably the key issue in the debate. In a document which reads at times like a managerial manual written by a bureaucracy, it is heartening to see the Scriptural example of Jesus brought back front and centre into consideration of the abuse issue.

No-one should need reminding that it is the grievous failure to follow Jesus’ example, by some people, which allowed the crime of child abuse to stain the Church in the first place.

New document aims to create a culture of vigilance without paranoia Diocese turns potential failure into witness on the streets

A technical glitch didn’t stop WYD enthusiasm in Lismore

■ By Anthony Barich

It could have been a PR disaster, but the Lismore diocese pulled of an effective means of evangelisation earlier this month when the World Youth Day Cross and Icon of Mary were paraded through the city.

The original plan was to have the WYD Cross airlifted by the Westpac rescue helicopter and flown over the Wilson River and the city of Lismore.

But aviation and safety concerns forced organisers to abandon the idea.

Logistical problems occurred with the chopper when they needed to fit a hook release mechanism onto it for the Cross.

The local civil aviation authority didn’t let them use the hoist they originally wanted and the organisers didn’t have time to attach the quick-release mechanism they needed.

“It was a great idea but it just wasn’t meant to happen,” said Chris Wallace, the Lismore Diocese’s WYD coordinator.

Instead, members of the Army Reserve, Special Emergency Service volunteers, St Vinnies Youth, members of the God Squad bikie group, local parishioners and curious onlookers gathered and took turns carrying the Cross and

involved. “They see the Cross and Icon as symbol of unity and selfsacrifice, which fits in with their work,” Mr Wallace said.

The procession finished at St Carthage’s Cathedral for personal veneration before a battle of the bands was played out at the local Trinity College.

As darkness fell, an Armidale priest put on a fireworks show and a youth Mass at the Cathedral officially finished the WYD Cross and Icon’s visit to Lismore.

The following morning, as scheduled, over 200 people attended a sunrise service at Australia’s most easterly point, Byron Bay Headland.

Spectators welcomed the 3.8m Cross and accompanying Icon at

dawn, where a spectacular 6.26am sunrise greeted the pilgrims, as did whales and dolphins, who made their presence known.

“It was amazing to see international symbols that have been throughout the world come to our community and interact with local students from Grafton to Murwillumbah,” said local parish priest Fr Anthony Lemon.

From Byron Bay the Cross and Icon travelled to Ballina, Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads, before crossing the border to Queensland and arriving in the Diocese of Toowoomba on August 8.

The WYD Cross and Icon are in Perth from May 21-26 and June 4-9 next year.

Icon through the city of Lismore.

One of the bikies was a Uniting Church minister so he roped in his

denomination, and Mr Wallace, the local police chaplain, got local police and fire brigade volunteers

Eerie: The scene at the dawn service during the journey of the WYD Cross and icon. PHOTOS: COURTESY LISMORE DIOCESE

Trekkers: WYD enthusiasts carry the Icon through the Lismore diocese.

 PAUL GRAY

The World

Guatemala’s atrocities revealed

Mass graves, 80 million pages of police records, 160,000 killed, 40,000 mysteriously disappeared...Guatemala’s Civil War is more horrific than anything Hollywood could conjureup

■ By Paul Jeffrey

GUATEMALA CITY (CNS)

- Church leaders say 80 million pages of secret police records being reviewed by the government promise Guatemalans a rare chance to rewrite the history of their violent land.

The mouldy records were found by accident in 2005 in an abandoned section of a police compound in Guatemala City. Some of the records date back more than a century, their faded pages describing the daily bureaucracy of repression employed for decades by Guatemala’s government.

Of most interest to investigators are records from 1975 to 1985, the most violent period of Guatemala’s civil war, during which 160,000 people were killed and 40,000 disappeared.

Although workers from the government’s human rights prosecutor have so far examined only about 5 million pages of the records, many are confident that what they are finding will shake up this traumatised land.

“During the conflict there was a sense of fear, for you never knew who was behind things,” said Bishop Alvaro Ramazzini Imeri of San Marcos, president of the Guatemalan bishops’ conference.

“The uncovering of the archives marks that we’re entering a different era. There is an opportunity to know who was involved in this, to rewrite the history of violence in our country and identify who the killers were.”

Guatemala’s civil war ended in 1996, and the final report of a UN-supervised truth commission includes 165 pages of letters that the commission wrote to the president and other government officials demanding access to police and military records. The commission always received the reply that such records did not exist.

After the secret records in Guatemala City were discovered, investigators from the human rights prosecutor’s office seized 34 other sets of records in provincial and neighbourhood police offices.

No files were uncovered from the military, perhaps the most brutal armed force in the hemisphere during the years of the civil war. Human rights activists had long hoped to discover the army’s archives, which would shed light on the government’s “scorchedearth” campaigns during the civil war. Yet the police archives do include records from the Joint Operations Centre, an office that coordinated the activities of all the country’s security services. An initial analysis of 3,000 pages selected at random showed that 15 percent

of the documents shed light on human rights abuses. A preliminary report on the project, due out late this year, will include concrete examples of police records that show when and where certain individuals were arrested and never heard from again, although the police always denied having detained them. Fingerprint records and photographs of tortured bodies interred in urban cemeteries are being matched to lists of the disappeared prepared by organisations of their family members.

Alberto Fuentes, an official of the human rights prosecutor’s office who manages the day-today operations at the archives, said information gleaned from the documents will provide closure to many families who have never learned the fate of friends or family who disappeared.

“There are thousands of families of disappeared persons, families that can’t end their grieving. The military and the police took away our right to life, but they also took away our right to death,” said Fuentes, a former Catholic social services worker whose brother, Julio, disappeared in 1982.

Since the war’s end, scores of mass graves have been exhumed in the countryside. Investigators hope the police archives will yield clues leading to the remains of those killed in the cities.

“We have 15 years of carrying out exhumations, and we’ve recovered 5,000 bodies, but only one of those disappeared in the capital. Now we can follow the leads to many others,” said Fredy Peccerelli, director of the Guatemalan Forensic Anthropology Foundation.

Several former military leaders have expressed outrage at the prospect of the secret archives being made public. Security around the operation is tight; scanned documents are immediately backed up on a remote server elsewhere in Guatemala and one in Switzerland.

Church workers are often the subject of the reports being found.

One document, a blue faded carbon copy of a June 4, 1973, memo to the head of the detective branch, passes on an informant’s report:

“On weekends, youth groups led by Jesuit fathers are going out to raise consciousness among the indigenous in Quiche, asking such questions as ‘Is the Ladino (person of mixed ancestry) treated the same as you? Who is better and why?’”

Velia Muralles, who heads a section assigned with interpreting what investigators find in the archives, says the reports show how anyone, especially teachers and church workers, who asked uncomfortable questions about discrimination became a suspect.

“Simply asking questions about why the Ladino and indigenous were treated differently was proof that they were subversives,” she said. Taken as a whole, according to investigators, the archive will document how, since its creation in the late 19th century, the police force in Guatemala has always been a political force, established more to investigate and harass opponents of the government

than to investigate malfeasance or detain criminals. From the beginning the police built a network of spies and informants, leading one Nicaraguan visitor in 1885 to observe that “even the drunks are discreet.”

“There is still a lot of fear, because the methods of repression were so savage and cruel,” Bishop Ramazzini told Catholic News Service. “You never knew who you were talking with. There were spies on every side. Many families suffered because their neighbours doubted them and reported them to the security groups.”

Gustavo Meono, director of the project to investigate the archives, said the musty piles of papers have helped him to comprehend better the idiosyncrasies of Guatemalans.

“When I read through almost 120 years of police history, I can understand better why we Guatemalans

Convent girls raped, church burned down

DILI, East Timor (CNS) - Officials of the Diocese of Baucau have expressed dismay over the rape of girls at a convent school and the burning of church property following the announcement of the appointment of East Timor’s new prime minister.

Fr Francisco Pinheiro da Silva, vicar general of the Baucau Diocese, told the Asian church news agency UCA News that unidentified men raped about nine girls - one of them only 8 years old and the others 15-17 - at around 2am on August 10 in the Salesian-run convent school in Baucau.

“Indications show that the brutality and immoral actions were done by Fretilin (former ruling party) supporters,” said Fr da Silva.

The British news agency Reuters reported that police arrested a 16-year-old male on suspicion that he raped an 11year-old student at an orphanage attached to the convent. Fr da Silva told UCA News that apart from the attack on the convent school there had been attacks on church and public buildings. Over three days, August 7-9, the offices of the diocese, the Caritas aid agency and the US bishops’ Catholic Relief Services, and a Catholicrun kindergarten were burned down, he said in a telephone interview from Baucau.

He said more than 600 houses were burned down and more than 6000 people have fled into the jungle. He cited reports that three villages in Viqueque district were burned to the ground. Baucau district is calm now, he said, but many still live in fear and are traumatised because thousands of people have lost their homes and property.

Reuters reported that police in Baucau had arrested 71 people in relation to the violence.

are like we are, our characteristics of timidity, lack of trust, of being afraid to express what we think or feel,” he said. “Wherever you went there was someone there listening to what you said, taking note of what you read, and all of this was passed to the head of the police.”

He said that when the security forces started to focus on counterinsurgency in the mid-1960s “we quit talking about political prisoners and started dealing with disappearances, being tortured to death, extrajudicial killings, mutilation of bodies.” Bishop Ramazzini said the memories of repression make it harder to build faith communities.

“The fear is a product of the violence, and people have not forgotten it. This makes our pastoral work more difficult, because people don’t want to make commitments. Their memories of the past are too fresh,” he said.

After President Jose RamosHorta announced that he would appoint former president and independence hero Xanana Gusmao as prime minister, Fretilin party supporters demonstrated on the streets in Baucau and Dili. Baucau is considered a Fretilin stronghold. Fretilin won the most votes in the June national election, but its 21 seats in the 65-member parliament are short of the majority. Gusmao’s party picked up 18 seats, but it later formed an alliance with three other parties to form a parliamentary majority. Fretilin’s leaders still are demanding the right to form the government and claim they will take the matter to court.

The sacking of 600 soldiers in 2006 by former Fretilin Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri led to clashes that resulted in over 20 dead and 100,000 homeless in this country of 1 million.

Haunting: Shirley Chacon, an investigator with the Forensic Anthropology Foundation of Guatemala, examines remains her team dug up in a rural village.

PHOTO: CNS/PAUL JEFFREY

Horrific past: This drawing shows the position of human skeletal remains from a mass grave discovered in Comalapa, Guatemala. The site was exhumed by the Forensic Anthropology Foundation of Guatemala, based in Guatemala City. CNS

The World

Hedonism ideologies not so invincible

CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy

(CNS) - The seemingly invincible ideologies of consumerism and hedonism and the reign of violence and terror will all be defeated by God’s love, Pope Benedict XVI said.

“It still seems impossible today to think that God ... is the true ruler of the world,” the Pope said during his homily on August 15, the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. But, in the end, “love wins, not selfishness,” material power and hatred, he said to an audience of several hundred local parishioners.

The Pope’s comments came while he celebrated Mass at St Thomas Church in Castel Gandolfo, where the papal summer residence is located, south of Rome.

Giving his homily without using a text or notes, the Pope said that according to St Augustine, human history has been driven by a struggle between two kinds of love: love for God in which one “loses oneself and gives oneself” totally to him and loving oneself to “the point of disparaging God and hating others.” Pope Benedict said this selfish love versus true love can be seen in the two images present in the feast day’s first reading from the Book of Revelation, an account of the encounter between the powerful dragon and the defenceless woman. The dragon, he said, represents “power without mercy, without love, of absolute selfishness, terror, violence” as well as all “materialistic dictatorships” throughout history, including the Nazi and Stalinist regimes.

“Even today the dragon exists in new and different ways,” he said.

It is present in the form of materialistic ideologies that consider God as something expendable or pointless and that maintain life is all about “consumption, selfishness, amusement” and “taking all there is to get in this brief lifetime,” the Pope said.

“Once again it seems absurd, impossible to defy this dominant mentality,” especially with the support it gets in the media, he said.

But, “nonetheless, we know that in the end the defenceless woman won” the battle against the dragon, signaling the victory of God’s love, he said. The woman clothed with the sun and with the moon under her feet represents Mary “living totally in God ... penetrated by the light of God” and conquering death, said the Pope.

“She tells us: ‘Have courage. In the end love wins,’” he said, adding that this love entailed living her life as a servant of God and giving herself totally to God and others.

The feast of the Assumption “is an invitation to have faith in God, to imitate Mary” and “to give our lives, not seize life,” Pope Benedict said. Love is stronger than hatred, he said, and the seemingly weak God, who came to the world as a baby, is strong. Though faith in God may seem weak against all earthly powers, it “is the true power in the world,” said the Pope.

He also greeted via satellite-tv linkup young people gathered at the Basilica of the Shrine of Mariazell in Austria, which he is scheduled to visit from September 7-9.

Quake devastation rocks Peru

Doesn’t look good: A woman looks over debris the day after a major earthquake in Lima, Peru. The tremor struck at 6.40pm on August 15. Powerful aftershocks continued as rescuers pulled wounded and dead from collapsed homes and churches.

among

mainly in cities south of Lima, the capital.

■ By Barbara Fraser

LIMA, Peru (CNS) - Peru’s Catholic Church is organising humanitarian aid for thousands of victims of a magnitude 8 earthquake, collecting donations of food, water and blankets and channelling financial assistance to the affected region.

Roberto Tarazona of the national office of Caritas, the Church’s humanitarian and social development agency, said his office had been in contact with bishops in the affected area and that a Caritas team was en route to the area to assess the damage and coordinate aid efforts. While Caritas’ immediate response is humanitarian assistance, he said, people will need even more help in the weeks following the August 15 quake, because aid tends to dry up once the immediate crisis is past.

The areas most affected will have to rebuild “production infrastructure, schools, community buildings, houses, water systems,” Tarazona said. “Reconstruction is the hardest phase, because at that point often the government and other agencies stop providing assistance.”

Officials reported at least 437 people were killed and more than 1000 injured in the disaster, but the figures were expected to rise as rescue workers searched the rubble for victims and survivors. The National Civil Defense Institute said on August 16 it had registered 16,600 families whose homes had been destroyed. Most of the damage, deaths and injuries occurred in towns on the south coast nearest the epicentre, about 100 miles south of Lima, Peru’s capital city. Hardest hit were the areas of Pisco, Ica and Chincha, where adobe houses collapsed. At least 200 deaths were confirmed in Pisco, and there were reports of dead bodies in the streets as families awaited ambulances or other emergency assistance.

Bill aims to make motherhood easier for college students

Women who considered abortion admit they only did so as they felt trapped

■ By Jacob Buckenmeyer

WASHINGTON (CNS) - As the debate rages on about whether abortion should be restricted or made more available, Feminists for Life sees clearly that abortion is a choice that no woman wants to make.

Members of the organisation were on Capitol Hill on August 14 to explain their support for the Elizabeth Cady Stanton Pregnant and Parenting Student Services Act of 2007, which was reintroduced to both houses of Congress this year.

This bill would establish programs at universities to support pregnant college women, so they don’t have to make the difficult choice between their education and parenting a child.

The organisation also introduced five women who shared their stories and will

tour the country visiting college campuses to spread the organisation’s message that “women deserve better than abortion,” said Serrin Foster, president of Feminists for Life. Some of the women had chosen abortion in the past; others had considered abortion but decided to keep the children or give them up for adoption. One, Melissa Ohden, said her mother attempted to abort her using a saline solution, but the procedure failed.

Although doctors said she would be permanently debilitated, Ohden was not.

She was adopted, and said she’s not bitter about how she was born - four months early, weighing two pounds, 14 ounces and assumed dead.

“There are millions of babies every year that aren’t as lucky,” she said.

Each of the women who considered or chose abortion said her experiences arose from doubts about how she could support a child resulting from an unplanned pregnancy with so few resources available.

To help pregnant and parenting college students continue their educations, Sens. Elizabeth Dole, R-N.C., and Ben Nelson, DNeb., introduced the Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Pregnant and Parenting Student Services Act of 2007 in March.

The bill would provide up to $50 million in grants to encourage colleges and universities to establish offices that would serve students who have children or are pregnant, even those who plan to give their children up for adoption.

The bill is named after Stanton because she was a pioneer in women’s suffrage and especially advocated women’s higher education. Women in college are effectively being forced, by lack of opportunities, to choose between motherhood and continuing their education, Foster said.

The Senate bill is modelled after a Feminists for Life program that began at Washington’s Georgetown University in 1997, and the House of Representatives is considering a bill of the same name, introduced in February by Reps. Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio, and Sue Myrick, R-N.C.

Deirdre McQuade, director of planning and information for the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities, said the conference offers strong support of this bill as a step toward changing

the culture of college campuses to make them more “pregnancy- and parenting-friendly.”

Citing the Alan Guttmacher Institute, McQuade said the leading reason that women seek abortions is that they lack either practical resources to care for a child or emotional support from their families.

“Typically, women are abandoned to that choice, not empowered by it,” she said.

Of the nearly 3700 abortions in the United States each day, women younger than 25 obtain 52 percent of them, and 75 per cent of all women who obtain abortions say they feel a child would interfere with their education or career, according to the institute.

Feminists for Life was established in 1972 and works through advocacy and legislation to support pregnant women and their families. Foster said that too often the choice to have an abortion is no choice at all, but merely a last resort when they discover no programs will support their choice to keep the child.

In recent years, the organisation has expanded its scope to include not just working women who lack benefits and maternity leave, but college women as well.

PHOTO: CNS

Devotion

devastation: An image of Pope Benedict XVI appears amid debris in a severely damaged building in Lima, Peru on August 16. A major earthquake struck the evening before, killing hundreds of people,

PHOTO: CNS

Romero urged Opus Dei canonisation

■ By Dominic Moger

Archbishop Oscar Romero encouraged John Paul II to canonise St Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, it has emerged.

In a letter composed following St Josemaria’s death in June 1975 - but only recently released in full on the internet - Archbishop Romero urged the late Pope to recognise St Josemaria as a saint on the grounds that “people from all social classes find in Opus Dei a secure orientation for living as sons of God”.

Archbishop Romero, who was assassinated as he celebrated Mass in El Salvador in March 1980, wrote in his letter: “In this stormy world overrun by insecurity, the superb doctrinal fidelity that characterises Opus Dei is a sign of special grace from God.”

This revelation may surprise Catholics who regard the two holy men as representing opposing branches of Catholic theol ogy or thought, even though the terms most widely used to describe these – progressive or conservative – are inadequate and often meaningless.

1979, a stance that ultimately ensured his martyrdom.

His position was taken as an implicit support for at least some elements of liberation theology, which was later ruled as inadequate by the-then head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Cardinal Josef Ratzinger.

Although elected as the fourth Archbishop of San Salvador on a supposedly conservative platform, Romero soon began to emphasise Jesus’s role as liberator of the oppressed and urging the citizens of El Salvador to resist the shackles of the military junta that had come to power in

St Josemaria, on the other hand, was widely regarded as a key conservative theologian when Opus Dei was formally recognised as an institution of the pontifical right by the papal decree Christifideles omnes in June 1950. But the differences between Romero and Escriva were certainly not as clear as is generally imagined.

St Josemaria, in a sermon dated June 17, 1966, demonstrated a deep-rooted sense of social justice, something that would have been greatly appreciated by

Romero. He said: “A man or society that does not react to suffering and injustice and makes no effort to alleviate them is still distant from the love of Christ’s heart.”

The canonisation of St Josemaria, which took place on October 6, 2002, was approved by a wide range of Church figures of different political persuasions. However it was also the largest crowd ever drawn in history for the canonisation of an individual.

Archbishop Romero’s Cause is still under consideration.

In recent years Opus Dei has suffered from a popular myth perpetrated by writers such as Dan Brown that it is some sort of dangerous secret society.

Opus Dei is also the first personal prelature in the Church, a term which approximates to belonging to a diocese without any boundaries.

Gathering a family support Ekberg to visit Perth

Continued from Page 1 sex education seminars and resources. “Our vision for human sexuality is grounded in the value and dignity of the human person and the Church’s rich teaching,” Karen Doyle said.

Recently the Bishops Conference of New Zealand placed three of their programs into every school in the country.

The workshop will focus on empowering students to face pressures to be sexually active, tips for discussing sexuality with youth, the problem with pornography, discussion on how the family is the ideal place for sexuality information and a puberty education package for parents and schools.

The conference is as engaging for parents as it is for youth. Professor of Medicine Dr Bruce Robinson, a father of three who has published over 150 scientific papers and several medical books while heading up a large cancer research team, will speak on balancing family and professional life.

He also wrote Fathering from the fast lane which was listed in Choice Magazine’s ‘top 10 Books’ in 2001.

Also speaking at the conference is clinical psychologist Ean James, a father of three daughters who runs seminars that combine the spiritual with the psychological. He will speak on effective ways of communication in families, enriching families by building trust in relationships and developing connections for ‘sacred family’.

Silvina Martinez, from the Parents and Friends Federation, will speak on the power and influence a parent has on the behaviour of their child that cannot be replaced by any other agency.

Mrs Martinez, born in Argentina, introduced the “Parent to parent – Safe Passage” program into WA schools. She will also provide a unique and non-threatening approach to better equip parents to guide their children around today’s ‘toxic culture’.

Perth Archdiocesan Catechist Carmel Stuart, who wrote the program “The truth will set you free” for catechists, will explore the importance of communicating with other people and God and invite families to work together to construct a family prayer.

Her presentation is suited to families with primary-aged children.

Fulltime Catholic evangelist Eddie Russell, who has toured the world preaching the Gospel with Flame Ministries International, will speak on the motivational gifts recorded in St Paul’s teachings and discerning our own motivational gift and that of other family members.

Volunteers are needed for the event involving publicity, parking, billeting country visitors, donations of food and drink, assisting with young children in crèche, first aid attendance and transport. For further information, contact Barbara Harris on 9328 8113.

Continued from Page 1 of representatives of community organisations and denominations opposing Attorney General Jim McGinty’s plan to decriminalise prostitution in WA.

The committee has called itself the Prostitution Law Amendment Working Committee and has already begun lobbying State MPs; The Record understands it is seeking to arrange an opportunity for Ms Ekberg to meet and speak with MPs about the issue.

Committee convenor Guido Vogels urged members of the public to attend Ms Ekberg’s talk.

Sweden’s laws have been so successful in reducing the sexual exploitation of women and girls and the accompanying problem of human trafficking into that country that laws based on its approach have been adopted by other Scandinavian nations such as Finland and Norway within the last two years, while in a surprise move the Vatican recently backed the Swedish model as an advance in dealing with the problem.

The laws introduced by Swedish authorities rested on a three-pronged approach: decriminalising the women and girls selling themselves, criminalising male clients, and a serious public education campaign.

A key element of the public education campaign included professional development and training for Sweden’s police

based on the concept of prostitution as sexual violence perpetrated against women and girls. Although Swedish police were initially sceptical, Ms Ekberg reports that they became strong supporters as the success of the policy began to take hold.

Ms Ekberg is a leading expert on the phenomenon of prostitution and is probably the most successful anti-prostitution and trafficking campaigner in Europe and perhaps the world today; her appointment to a far more wide-ranging role at the EU points to the seriousness with which the problem of prostitution is beginning to be taken by European leaders and a resolve to stamp out the problem which is increasingly seen as dependent on the destruction of women and girls for its continuation.

Mr McGinty announced last month that he would introduce legislation to decriminalise prostitution into the State Parliament in September. New South Wales and Victoria legalised prostitution in the 1990s. Critics have charged that a rapid growth in the exploitation of women and girls followed hot on the heels of moves by these states.

There are now more than 400 legal brothels operating in Sydney and a similar number of illegal ones.

Ms Ekberg will speak in the University’s Drill Hall in Mouat St, Fremantle at 7pm on Thursday September 20. Entry is by donation.

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New saint: Pope Benedict XVI blesses a newly installed statue of St Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer. PHOTO: CNS

Archbishop Oscar A. Romero

■ By Robert Lockwood

Lisa Simpson: “Doesn’t the Bible teach us, ‘Judge not lest ye be judged,’ Reverend?”

Rev. Lovejoy: “I think it may be somewhere toward the back.’

“The Simpsons” is an extraordinarily popular television show. With 400 episodes under its belt, the Fox Network favourite now ranks first in longevity for both a situation comedy and a full-length cartoon series.

All those who have gotten rich off “The Simpsons” will no doubt get richer still with the release of “The Simpsons Movie” on July 27 - the first feature-length animated film based on the cartoon characters.

“The Simpsons” was aimed at - and created for - baby boomers, that post-World War II generation that we have suffered with for over five decades and of which I am a charter member. The jokes on “The Simpsons” and so many of its cultural, historical and media references are drawn from the assorted cultural baggage of that generation.

“The Simpsons” is part of a natural progression of popular culture, following the baby boomers from one decade to the next.

The roots of “The Simpsons” are in “Mad Magazine” of the 1950s, the brief but influential shelf life of “National Lampoon” magazine in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, through the movies spawned from it such as “Animal House” the early “Saturday Night Live” and “The David Letterman Show” in its formative years.

The birth of “The Simpsons” is the end point of this boomer cultural pilgrimage. The creators behind “The Simpsons” are all baby boomers. Matt Groening, the founder, was born in 1954, while patron saint Albert Brooks, is the senior baby boomer, born in 1947.

While Groening and Brooks are the credited public geniuses of “The Simpsons’ the behind-thescene guy has been producer and writer George Meyer. Born in 1956, he joined the show in 1989 and has been with it ever since.

Boomer dropouts

Conventional wisdom says that most comedy writers today are either atheists or ex-Catholics.

“The Simpsons” certainly reflects its fill of former Catholics on the writing staff. Meyer fits the description perfectly. Born and raised Catholic, Meyer claims to have moved from agnostic to atheist, as staying agnostic seemed “too wimpy?’

The Catholic stuff on “The Simpsons’ and religion in general, is generally what one would expect from Catholic baby boomer dropouts. It reflects an understanding of faith that never graduated from grammar school and a view of Catholicism blamed on a nun trying to exercise crowd control in a baby boomer classroom.

Meyer is said to be the main creative force behind the upcoming Simpsons movie.

Homer Simpson, when asked what faith he practices, says, ““You know, the one with all the wellmeaning rules that don’t work out in real life, uh, Christianity.”

Marge: Sensible wife and mother with the big, blue hair who attempts to keep the family in line.

Maggie: The youngest Simpson, she does not speak yet because she’s too busy sucking on the pacifier that’s perennially in her mouth.

Simpson family is pictured in “The Simpsons Movie.”

‘Presbo-Lutheran’

“The Simpsons” has been both pilloried and praised for its treatment of religion, which often encompasses the same cynicism that pervades every aspect of culture that the show touches on. Their particular denomination is identified as “Presbo-Lutheran,” which can most properly be defined as a secular baby boomer perspective on Christianity abandoned sometime after freshman year in college back in the 1960s.

“The Simpsons” is one of the few shows in the history of television where the family regularly attends church services and prays. It’s this that most appeals to those who see a religious dimension to “The Simpsons”.

“The Simpsons” is one of the few shows in the history of television where the family regularly attends church services and prays. It’s this that most appeals to those who see a religious dimension to “The Simpsons.”

But the writers and those involved in the show are caught up in an artificial distinction between those who practise religious faith, and some kind of vague spirituality that is less offensive to a secular mind-set. The essential point seems to be that spirituality not mired in real belief is preferable, no doubt because a squishy and vague spirituality demands no conversion, no radical change in life.

The “Presbo-Lutheranism” of “The Simpsons” becomes Christian

Lisa: Younger sister of Bart and often the voice of reason; a philosophical soul who enjoys playing the saxophone.

religious practice as defined from a secular baby boomer perspective. Their neighbour, Ned Flanders, is the paragon of this Christianity, a decent but fundamentally loony Christian.

The Rev. Lovejoy is the preacher at the Presbo-Lutheran denomination and sums up a baby boomer view of religious practice when he explains to Ned his new-found dedication to the faith: “Don’t thank me, thank Marge Simpson. She taught me that there’s more to being a minister than not caring about people.”

Dire prayers

Despite the cynicism and much like baby boomers as a whole, “The Simpsons” does maintain a warm spot for faith. When Bart Simpson is warned that he is about to flunk history and be kept back in class, he prays for divine intervention. His prayers seem to be answered when a snowstorm leaves him one more day to study. When he manages to just scrape by on the test, he says gratefully, “Part of this Dminus belongs to God.”

Homer engages in almost routine prayer, though his grasp of the essentials of Christianity is minimal at best. He prays most often in the dire circumstances he finds himself in on a routine basis, but even that can get a little confused. Caught in a runaway cherry picker, he folds his hands, looks skyward and confesses that he doesn’t talk to him enough, but he really needs Superman’s help now.

Disrespecting Catholics

The Catholic Church is not treated particularly well on “The Simpsons”, though the Catholic references are relatively minimal through 400 episodes.

Bart: Mischievous fourth-grader who continually pushes the conventional, not to mention school rules and, occasionally, the law.

Surprisingly enough, Marge Simpson seems to carry a distinctly anti-Catholic perspective. When the Catholic Church is mentioned at all, Marge almost instantly loses all composure. Bart asks his mother if they can go to a Catholic Church to receive Communion and “booze.” Marge replies: “No one is going Catholic. Three children is enough, thank you!”

Gratuitous anti-Catholic remarks would slip into “The Simpsons” and it was claimed that Fox eventually sent down orders to “lay off Catholics” after an episode featured scantily - dressed Catholic nuns in a satire of a Super Bowl ad with the tagline, “The Catholic Church: We’ve made a few changes.”

The Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights has protested segments of the show on a number of occasions.

In one episode dealing very specifically with the Catholic Church, Bart is sent to Catholic school as a last resort. (Previous last resorts had also seen him at military school). Bart is impressed and soon begins to show an interest in Catholicism. Homer, sent by Marge to intervene, finds bingo so attractive that he also threatens to convert.

Marge goes berserk when told that this could mean that Homer and Bart would be in Catholic heaven while she will be in Protestant heaven. (Protestant heaven is depicted as a dull croquet game among snotty WASPs; Catholic heaven is dancing and booze.) She sends Rev. Lovejoy, Ned Flanders and Groundskeeper Willie to kidnap Bart and Homer so they can be deprogrammed from Catholic brainwashing.

This episode ends with a goofy plea for toleration set in a climactic religious war sometime in the future.

Homer J.: Loving, devoted, bumbling father and husband. Homer is often getting himself in trouble by accident and is not too bright.

Bart sells his soul

In 400 episodes, “The Simpsons” does have its moments and that is certainly what keeps some of its fans convinced that the show has a fundamentally religious message, which would doubtlessly set “The Simpsons” creators’ collective head spinning.

One of my personal favourite episodes of “The Simpsons” is when Bart sells his soul to his friend Millhouse for $5. He tells Millhouse that the soul is something made up to scare kids, “like the Boogie Man or Michael Jackson”.

But Bart soon finds that without his soul, what defines him has gone out of his life. Bart finally prays: “Are you there, God? It’s me, Bart Simpson. I know I never paid too much attention in church, but I could really use some of that good stuff now. I’m afraid. I’m afraid some weirdo’s got my soul and I don’t know what they’re doing to it! I just want it back. Please?”

It’s actually a very touching scene.

After teasing him, Lisa realises that Bart is truly frightened by his “lost soul” and buys it back for him.

A lot of Catholic baby boomers are returning to the faith of their youth. Their return comes from a growing adult understanding of faith that puts childhood memories in their proper perspective.

It is that understanding of grace, of sacraments, of the depth and richness of the Catholic faith rooted in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ that has made all the difference in their lives.

Which means there may even be hope for those involved with “The Simpsons.”

Robert P. Lockwood writes from Pennsylvania for OSV.

The

PHOTO: CNS PHOTO/FOX

English Bishop resigns from Amnesty over abortion

■ By Simon Caldwell

LONDON (CNS) - An English bishop has resigned from Amnesty International after the human rights group adopted a policy to fight for the decriminalisation of abortion around the world.

Bishop Michael Evans of East Anglia announced in an August 18 statement that he was leaving Amnesty after 31 years of active membership to protest the abortion policy adopted at a meeting of Amnesty leaders in Cocoyoc, Mexico, from August. 11-17.

The organisation’s International Council - more than 400 delegates from 75 countries - approved the

proposals as part of Amnesty’s Stop Violence Against Women campaign.

The council voted to “support the decriminalisation of abortion, to ensure women have access to health care when complications arise from abortion, and to defend women’s access to abortion, within reasonable gestational limits, when their health or human rights are in danger.”

But Bishop Evans said that the policy made it “very difficult for Catholics to remain members of Amnesty or to give it any financial support.”

“This regrettable decision will almost certainly divide Amnesty’s membership and thereby under-

mine its vital work,” he said. “Among all human rights, the right to life is fundamental.”

Bishop Evans was an Amnesty member for 31 years; in the 1980s, he served on the British Section Council and its Religious Bodies Liaison Panel.

“I remain deeply committed to Amnesty’s original mandate: to work for freedom for prisoners of conscience, an end to torture and the death penalty, and fair trials for all,” he added.

The bishop said that the Catholic Church shared Amnesty’s strong commitment to oppose violence against women but said that “appalling violence must not be answered by violence against the

most vulnerable and defenceless form of human life in a woman’s womb.”

“Catholics would want to show practical compassion for such women and ensure for them all the medical and spiritual care and support they need,” he added. “But there is no human right to access to abortion, and Amnesty should not involve itself even in such extreme cases.”

Amnesty International was set up in 1961 by the late English lawyer Peter Benenson, a convert to Catholicism, to fight for the release of prisoners of conscience, for fair trials for political prisoners and for an end to torture, ill treatment, political killings, disap-

Public Notices

pearances and the death penalty. Bishop Evans joined the group in 1976, a year after he was ordained a priest, and immediately began encouraging church-based justice and peace groups to affiliate to the organisation.

In 2005 and 2006, the prayer he was asked to compose for Amnesty’s “Protect the Human” campaign, which had the aim of recruiting a million new British members, was published on thousands of posters and cards.

An Amnesty International spokeswoman said in an August 19 statement that the group “supports freedom of expression of every person,” and respected the Bishop’s decision.

PANORAMA a roundup of events in the archdiocese

Sunday August 26

GOSPEL CONCERT

A Catholic Social Justice event supporting Ugandan orphans with food, care and schooling. Redemptorist Monastery North Perth 2pm to 4.45pm featuring WA’s finest Gospel Performers. Advance purchase tickets only - Adults $12, Children $2 erichancock@swiftdsl.com.au or phone 9446 1558.

Wednesday August 29

PREGNANCY ASSISTANCE INFORMATION DAY

Are you Pro-Life? Compassionate? A Good Listener?

An Information Day will be held on Wednesday, 29th Aug from 9.30am-2.30pm for those who would like to know more about becoming a pregnancy support volunteer. To register, phone Pregnancy Assistance on 9328 2926.

Wednesday August 29 - Saturday September 1 RELATIONSHIP TALKS

The Spirituality of Relationships Wednesday August 297.30-9.30pm and Blockages to Authentic Relationships, Saturday September 1, 9am-12Noon Presenter: Jamie Calder (SJ) (Jesuit Priest and Psychologist). Venue: Multi-Purpose Room, John XXIII College (follow signs) Cost: $10 per talk (donation unwaged) Details and phone registration: Murray Graham 9383 0444.

Thursday August 30 and Friday August 31 YOU ARE INVITED

All welcome to the Premiere of “The Scroll”, a brand new and exciting Biblical Drama about the twosided scriptural scroll written about in the New Testament. At St Johns Church, 16 Aberdeen St, Northbridge at 7.30pm. Entry by donation, but please ring Harry Mithen (9444-4626) to ensure a seat.

Thursday August 30

THE 24TH ANNUAL NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF GOOD HEALTH, VAILANKANNI

Starts 7pm and ends on September 8, the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the Holy Trinity Church, Embleton. Social get-together follows on the first and last day of the Novena. Please bring a plate. Thank you. Enq; Mons P McCrann 9271 5528 or George Jacob 9272 1379.

Friday August 31

HEALING FIRE BURNING LOVE  HEALING SERVICE

7.30pm – 9.30pm Our Lady of the Mission, 270 Camberwarra Drive Whitford. If you know someone who needs prayer, Jesus says ‘Ask and you shall receive.’ Fr Michael Brown OFM will be giving a teaching on the words of Jesus ‘What can I do for you’. Also we are looking for enthusiastic singers familiar with Charismatic songs and praise to assist in our ministry. Please contact Jenni Young on 9445 1028 or mobile 0404 389 679.

Saturday September 1

DAY WITH MARY

9am – 5pm Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, cnr Harfoot & Milroy Streets, Willagee. A video on Fatima will be shown at 9am followed by a day of prayer and instruction based upon the messages of Fatima. Includes Sacrament of Penance, Holy Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Sermons, Rosaries, Procession of the Blessed Sacrament and Stations of

Saturday September 1

WITNESS FOR LIFE PROCESSION

The next first Saturday Mass, Procession and Rosary Vigil will commence with Mass at 8.30am at St Anne’s Church, Hehir St Belmont. We proceed prayerfully to the Rivervale Abortion centre and conclude with Rosary, led by Fr Paul Carey SSC. Please join us to pray peacefully for the conversion of hearts. Enq: Helen 9402 0349.

Sunday September 2

DIVINE MERCY

An afternoon with Jesus and Mary will be held at St Joachim’s Church on the corner of Shepperton and Harper Street in Victoria Park 1.30pm. Program: Holy Rosary and Reconciliation. Sermon: Our Lady of Perpetual Help with Fr Hugh Thomas CSSR. Followed by Divine Mercy prayers and Benediction. Afterwards refreshments in the Parish Hall, followed by a video with Mother Angelica entitled, ‘We do not see with our hearts’. Enq: John 9457 7771 or Linda 9275 6608.

Wednesday September 5

48 HOUR PERPETUAL ROSARY BOUQUET

To be part of the 48 Hour Perpetual Rosary Bouquet for Our Lady’s Birthday, commencing 6pm concluding Friday 7 6pm, please contact Margaret 9341 8082, Fax 9341 8083, email bowen@iinet,net,au Rosary can be said anytime during the 48hrs. Scroll with recorded names to be taken up during Holy Mass 10.30am St Joachim’s, Vic Park Saturday September 8. Celebrant Mons T McDonald, Mass preceded at 10am with Meditative Rosary led by Fr Paul Carey.

Thursday - Sunday September 6 – 9

FEAST OF OUR LADY MARIA SANTISSIMA DEL TINDARI

Basilica Saint Patrick, Adelaide Street Fremantle. The Feast of Maria SS. Del Tindari will be held during the second week of September. It begins with Triduum which will be celebrated by Fr Sergio Natoli O.M.I. from Italy, beginning Thursday September 6 to Saturday 8 at 7.30pm. The concelebrated Mass will be on Sunday September 10 at 9.45am. The Principal Celebrant will be Bishop Peter Quinn. The procession through the streets of Fremantle will commence from the Basilica at 2pm. Enq: Joe Franchina 0404 801 138 or 9335 1185.

Friday September 7

ALLIANCE AND TRIUMPH OF THE TWO HEARTS

First Friday Eucharistic Adoration of Reparation to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary at St Bernadettes’s Church, 49 Jugan St. Glendalough. Confessions at 5pm; Holy Mass at 5.45pm (usual parish Mass) followed by exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in the church. There will be hourly prayers, rosaries, hymns and reflections. Vigil concludes at midnight with the “Angelus” and prayers to the United Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Enquiries: Father Doug Harris 9444 6131 or Dorothy 9342 5845 (parish Mass in honour of the BVM is celebrated every Saturday at 7.30 am.

September 7

 PRAISE AND WORSHIP

7.30pm at St John and Paul’s Church, Pinetree Gully Road, Willetton. A talk will be given by Fr Greg Donovan followed by Thanksgiving Mass. There will be light refreshments after Mass. You are all welcome to attend and we encourage you to bring your family and friends to this evening of fellowship. Enq: Rita 9272 1765 or Rose 0403 300 720.

Friday September 7

PROLIFE PROCESSION MIDLAND

The first Friday Mass, Procession and Rosary vigil will commence at 9.30am with Mass celebrated at St Brigid’s Church, Midland. The Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate will lead us. All are invited to witness for the sanctity of life and pray for the conversion of hearts. Enq: Helen 9402 0349.

Friday September 7

APPLICATIONS CLOSE FOR CACW FELLOWSHIPS

The Council for Australian Catholic Women (CACW) was established by the Australian Catholic Bishops‚ Conference in 2000. CACW seeks to promote the participation of women in the Catholic Church in Australia. CACW is pleased to announce that the 2008 application package for the Young Catholic Women’s‚ Interfaith Fellowship is now available. The package can be downloaded from: www.cacw. catholic.org.au For further information regarding the CACW or the Fellowship, please contact: michelleww@iinet.net.au or 9345 2555.

Thursday to Sunday September 13-16

CURSILLO FOR WOMEN

7pm to be held at ‘Penola by the Sea’, 27 Penguin Rd, Safety Bay. For application forms and/or further information please phone Jeanie Hoff on 95313842 or 0421 725 508.

Friday September 14

ALAN AMES IN LOCKRIDGE

Alan will be speaking of his conversion experiences at St Thomas Catholic Church, Cnr College Road & Melville Street, Claremont, after 7 pm Mass. Healing prayers will follow. Enq: Loretti Crameri 9444 4409.

Friday to Sunday September 14-16

RETREAT  PRAYER IN THE FRANCISCAN TRADITION

All those interested in learning more about St Francis and prayer in the Franciscan tradition are welcome to attend. The retreat will be held at the Redemptorist Retreat House. The retreat will be given by Deacon Dick Scallan SFO. For information and bookings please contact Mary on 9377 7925 by August 31.

Saturday September 22

ST PADRE PIO PILGRIMAGE TO TOODYAY

Program: 10.15am – DVD Presentation of St Pio’s Life. 11.30am – Solemn Holy Mass - St Padre Pio Liturgy. Lunch BYO. Tea & Coffee provided. AfternoonEucharistic Procession, Adoration, Rosary, Divine Mercy, Benediction, Confessions available. Finish 4.15pm. Buses departing St Joachim’s Vic Park, Mirrabooka, Girrawheen contact Nita 9367 1366. Glendalough, Leederville, Morley, Midland contact Des 6278 1540.

Each Saturday, September 22 – November 10 BE RENEWED AND REFRESHED IN THE NEW LIFE IN GOD’S SPIRIT SEMINAR

The Holy Spirit of Freedom Community invites you to this eight week seminar, which provides an opportunity to deepen your relationship with God and seek a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The course will run from 10.30am - 12.30pm at St Anne’s Church Hall, 11 Hehir St Belmont. For further details contact Peter on 9475 0155 or email at hsofperth@gmail.com.

Sunday September 23

40TH ANNIVERSARY OUR LADY OF LOURDES Past parishioners and friends of Our Lady of Lourdes, Nollamara are warmly invited to attend the celebration of the 40th Anniversary of our Church and the Blessing of its extensions. Celebrations will begin with a concelebrated Mass at 2.30pm followed by light refreshments. For further enquiries please contact the Parish Centre of 9345 5541.

Sunday September 23

ST JOSEP H’S CHURCH TRAYNING CELEBRATES 81 YEARS 10.30am St Joseph’s Trayning will celebrate 81 years. Mass will be followed by a bring and share lunch. Contacts: Sandra Waters 9683 2048 email: rosalind@bbsat.com.au Val Enriquez 9683 1191, Fr Chien 9685 2399.

October 11, 12 and 13

TRIDUUM TO CELEBRATE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FATIMA APPARITIONS

Holy Trinity Church, Embleton. 7pm Holy Mass followed by Rosary, Litany, Marian Prayer and Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament on Thursday and Friday respectively. Saturday 13th, Vigil Mass at 6pm followed by devotions as above, concluding with candle light procession and fellowship at the hall to thank and farewell Franciscan Friar of the Immaculate the Preacher Fr John Josep. Please bring a plate. Enq: Mons McCrann 9271 5528 or Judy David 9275 5827 or George Jacob 9272 1379.

Friday 19 - Sunday 21 October

MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKEND

When You Care Enough. Looking for a new way to let your spouse know you love them in the midst of your jobs, the kids, sport and trying to keep up with your house, pool and garden? Tell him or her they’re still No. 1 in your life. To love the very best in your marriage, treat yourselves to a Marriage Encounter Weekend. Register now for the last weekend for the year 2007. Contact Joe & Margaret Cordina on 9417 8750 for further details & Bookings.

Saturday October 20

ST JOSEP H’S YOUTH GROUP, QUEENS PARK, 30 YEAR REUNION

All past members of the St Joseph’s Youth Group are invited to attend a reunion. If you would like to attend or know of someone who was a member, please contact Wayne McGoorty on 9351 9563 or email dmcgoorty@upnaway.com or Carolyn Pen on 0411 133 465 or email penpc@optusnet.com.au for further details of this event.

Sunday October 28

JENNACUBINE

An invitation is extended to all persons who have any links to St Isidore’s Church, Jennacubbine to

the Cross. Please BYO lunch. Enq: Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate 9250 8286.

Friday

CATHOLIC FAITH RENEWAL

PANORAMA

attend the 100th Anniversary Celebrations. St Isidore’s Catholic Church, Jennacubbine 10am. Celebrant: Archbishop B J Hickey. We would appreciate the offer on-loan of any memorabilia or photos of interest. Contact: Joe & Cathie Bowen 9623 2264 cbowen@wn.com.au.

Friday November 17

INTERCESSION FOR WORLD YOUTH DAY 2008

All night prayer vigil. St Bernadette’s, Jugan St, Glendalough. 8pm-6am. Begins with Mass ends with Breakfast. All are welcome to come to pray and intercede for World Youth Day 2008. Come for an hour, stay the night.

First Sunday of each month

DEVOTIONS IN HONOUR OF THE DIVINE MERCY

The Santa Clara Parish community welcomes anyone from surrounding parishes and beyond to Santa Clara Church, cnr of Coolgardie and Pollack Sts, Bentley. The afternoon commences with the 3 o’clock prayers, followed by the Divine Mercy Chaplet, reflection and concludes with Benediction.

Last Sunday each month

HEALING FIRE BURNING LOVE

Charismatic Mass celebrated at the Holy Spirit Chapel, 85 Boas Avenue, Joondalup at 5.45pm.

Every Saturday PERPETUAL HELP DEVOTIONS

4.30pm. The half hour perpetual novena devotions to the Mother of Perpetual Help continue each Saturday at the Redemptorist Monastery Church, 190 Vincent St, in North Perth. Reconciliation available before and after the devotions. All welcome.

Every Sunday

BULLSBROOK SHRINE

Sunday pilgrim Mass is celebrated with Holy Rosary and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament 2pm at the Shrine of the Virgin of the Revelation, 36 Chittering Road, Bullsbrook. Reconciliation is available in Italian and English before every celebration. Enq: 9447 3292.

Every Sunday RADIO GATE OF HEAVEN

7.30-9pm. 107.9FM. 1. Getting God’s Help w/Fr Benedict Groeschel - “The Gift of Fear of The Lord” Episode #8. Life on the rock w/Fr Francis Mary“Activists & Participants in the Walk for Life on the West Coast” Episode #156.

Every Sunday LATIN MASS

The Latin Mass according to the 1962 missal is offered every Sunday at Our Lady of Fatima, 10 Foss St, Palmyra at noon. All welcome.

Every fourth Monday

SCRIPTURAL PRAYER PROGRAM

7.30-9pm. Venue: St Mary’s Parish Centre, 40 Franklin St, Leederville. The Council for Australian Catholic Women (CACW) is offering a scriptural prayer program developed in the Jesuit tradition. This form of prayer can lead to more reflective living, greater spiritual depths and promotes lay spiritual leadership in the Church. Led by Kathleen Brennan (ibvm). Enq: Michelle Wood 9345 2555.

Every Wednesday HOLY HOUR, BENEDICTION

Holy Hour 4.30 – 5.30pm St Thomas Church, 2 College Road, Claremont, followed by Evening prayer and Benediction. Personal prayer before the Blessed Sacrament is Adoration of Jesus’ gift of Himself, of His love for you, for your loved ones and for our world. Come and thank Him.

Every second Wednesday

FORTNIGHTLY BIBLE REFLECTIONS

Workers in the Garden of the Holy Family are conducting Bible Reflections at St Mary’s Church, Parish Centre, 40 Franklin Street, Leederville. Commencing 7pm with Rosary, refreshments provided afterward. Dates: September 5, 19, October 3, 17, 31, November 14, 28, December 5. Enq: 9201 0337.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Holy Trinity Church, 8 Burnett Street, Embleton.

Every Monday to Thursday after the 8.30am Mass till 10am. Every Thursday night from 11pm to midnight. Every Friday Eucharistic Adoration after the 8.30 Mass till 6pm. Enquiries: Mons P McCrann 9271 5528 or George Jacob 9272 1379.

Every First Friday

HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS TO THE PRIESTHOOD AND THE RELIGIOUS LIFE

At Little Sisters of the Poor Chapel, 2 Rawlins Street, Glendalough. 7pm Mass with Celebrant Fr Albert Saminedi. 7.30pm Holy Hour Adoration with Fr Don Kettle. Refreshments to follow in the Hall. All welcome.

Every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month

CATHOLIC FAITH RENEWAL

Every 1st Friday - Praise and Worship evening held at St John and Paul’s Church, Pinetree Gully Rd Willetton at 7.30pm. Every 3rd Friday Catholic Faith Education by Fr Greg Donovan, LJ Goody Bioethics Centre, 39 Jugan Street, Glendalough at 7.30pm. All are welcome. Enq: Rita 9272 1765 or Rose 0403 300 720.

Second Friday of each Month GENERAL PRAYER ASSEMBLY

The Couples for Christ and its Family Ministries welcome all members who now reside or are visiting Perth to join the community in our monthly general prayer assembly 7.30pm, St Joachim Parish Hall, Shepperton Road, Victoria Park. Enquiries: Tony & Dolly Haber (08) 9440 4540.

Every Fourth Sunday SECULAR FRANCISCAN ORDER

The Perth Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order assembles every fourth Sunday at 2.30pm in the Chapel of RSL Care, 51 Alexander Dr, Menora. Enquiries John 9385 5649.

Every Fourth Sunday WATCH AND PRAY

A Holy Hour is held at Infant Jesus Parish, Morley from 2-3pm with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. The hour consists of some prayers and Scripture but mostly the hour is silent prayer for Vocations. All are welcome. Please encourage others to come and pray. Prayer - it works! Enq: 9276 8500.

Every Monday WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FOR THOSE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS

The Emmanuel Centre are offering to help people who gain weight because they are using medication for their mental illness. The group helps participants to manage their weight safely and healthily. Mind-Body-Life meets at the Emmanuel Centre on Mondays from 12.30-2.30pm. Free. The group starts with a weigh-in, then a talk on nutrition and healthy eating tips, goal setting and then half an hour of exercise. Enq: Amanda - Emmanuel Centre, 9328 8113.

BOOK DONATIONS

We still seek donations of books and thank you and bless you for your kind, generous contributions of Bibles, Missals and Catholic books on the faith. We are now able to offer a selection of second-hand, pre-loved books to the community in return for a small donation. Enq: 9293 3092.

WINDOW FUND DONATIONS WELCOME

St Catherine’s Catholic Church, Gin Gin. Parishioners are currently fundraising to restore the church windows. The cost of each window is $1500. If anyone is able to assist our fundraising efforts please telephone Fr Paul 9571 1839.

CLUB AMICI

Club Amici aims to build community amongst Catholic singles, couples and families (aged 25 and up) by organising social events. If you would like a copy of our new calendar of events or would like to be on our mailout list please contact Therese 9437 5349 or email clubamiciwa@yahoo.com.au.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Ignatian Volunteers Australia calls for part-time volunteers to respond to the needs of people in the community who live in marginalised circumstances. At the heart of this program is a reflective process based on Gospel values, which supports the volunteers in their work. To learn more: www.volunteers.jesuit.org.au Contact Kevin Wringe, Perth Coordinator (08) 9316 3469 kwringe@iinet.net.au .

REUNION

John and Marie Acland are planning to hold a reunion later this year of all past and present members of the Apostles of Christ Prayer Group Willetton and all other persons who took part in their Meetings, Fellowship Nights, Life in the Spirit, and supplementary Seminars, the Alpha Course and other group activities. Further details will be advised when full numbers are known. Enq: Marie Acland. Tel/fax 9537-3390. Email jmacland@bigpond.com or Dianne McLeod 93320829. Email danielmcleod@bigpond.com

OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE HOUSE OF PRAYER

Archbishop Hickey, at the end of 2006, approved a House of Prayer in the Archdiocese of Perth. The house must be fully purchased or donated and operational by the end of November 2007. All donations may be deposited at the CDF (Catholic Development Fund), 61 Fitzgerald Street, Northbridge. Ph: 9427 0333 Fax: 9427 0379 Email: cdf@archdiocese-perth.org.au. All donations will be fully refunded in the first half of December 2007 should a suitable house not be found and purchased. Please Enquire about Tax Deductibility and General Enquiries: 9444 1940.

Classifieds

ACCOMMODATION

■ DENMARK Holiday House 3bdr x 2 bath, sleeps up to 8. BOOK NOW. Ph: Maria 0412 083 377.

■ FAMILY GROUP ACCOMMODATION Visit http://www.beachhouseperth.com Call 0400 292 100

BLINDS

■ BLINDS SPECIALIST Call AARON for FREE quotes 0402 979 889.

BUILDING TRADES

■ BRICK REPOINTING Phone Nigel 9242 2952.

■ PERROTT PAINTING PTY LTD

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

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

EMPLOYMENT

■ BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Extra income from your own home-based business. Work part-time without disturbing what you are doing now. Call: 02 8230 0290 or 0412 518318 Events

HELP WANTED

■ VOLUNTEERS WANTED

The Christian Democratic Party (CDP) is looking for volunteers who support Christian values and want to improve Australia to work at polling booths at the coming Federal election. If you can help, please contact Paul Connelly (CDP’s Perth Candidate) on 0414 247 286 or pmjconnelly@hotmail.com

Authorised by Gerard Goiran 4/294 Gt Eastern Hwy Midland

■ BUSINESS SUPPORT WANTED

The Christian Democratic Party (CDP) is looking for businesses in all areas that support Christian values and want to improve Australia to place CDP Candidate campaign posters (various sizes available) in the shop windows of their businesses for the coming Federal Election. If you can help, please contact Paul Connelly (CDP’s Perth Candidate) on 0414 247 286 or pmjconnelly@hotmail.com.

Authorised by Gerard Goiran 4/294 Gt Eastern Hwy Midland

FURNITURE REMOVAL

■ ALL AREAS

Mike Murphy 0416 226 434.

Diary - August

HEALTH

■ ACHES, PAINS, STRESS??? Indian mature male masseur offers Reflex Relax Massage at $30 for 60mins. Phone Jai 0438 520 993.

■ DEMENTIA REMISSION

Do you, or your loved one, suffer Dementia. Get into Dementia Remission like me! http://www. wgrey.com.au/dm/index.htm or (02) 9971 8093.

■ HEALTH AND WELLNESS

A FREE Sample Pack of wellness, weightloss, and energy products. DVD and product brochure also enclosed. (Only while stocks last - hurry!!) Call 02 8230 0290 or 0412 518 318.

MIGRANTS

■ MIGRATE TO AUSTRALIA

For guidance and visa processing, Skilled or Family Visas and Study visas. Call Michael Ring or Ajay Trehan Registered Migration Agent – (MARN # 0212024). Phone: (02) 8230 0290 or 0412 518 318 for a no-obligation assessment, please call or email: michael.ring@bigpond.com

RELIGIOUS PRODUCTS

■ APARCIDA’S EMPORIUM

Florist, retailer of Catholic Products (all occasions), giftware, wedding planner, as seen on Access 31. Open Tues-Sun, Shop 11, Cinema Arcade Perth. 9439 6539 or 9525 4679.

■ 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 Road, Canning Vale. Open Mon-Sat.

■ KINLAR VESTMENTS “MODERN MEETS TRADITION” Quality hand-made & decorated vestments, altar cloths, banners.

Contact: Vickii Smith Veness 9402 8356 or 0409 114 093.

■ RICH HARVEST  YOUR CHRISTIAN SHOP

Looking for Bibles, CDs, books, cards, gifts, statues, baptism/communion apparel, religious vestments, etc? Visit us at 39 Hulme Court (off McCoy St), Myaree, 9329 9889 (after 10.30am, Mon-Sat) We are here to serve.

SERVICES

■ BOOKS

Books 2nd hand quality Catholic reading at reasonable prices. Also Bibles and Missals. Ph: (08) 9293 3092.

Classifieds

Must be submitted by fax, email or post no later than 12pm Tuesday. For more information contact 9227 7778.

PLEASE NOTE THE

OFFICES WILL CLOSE AT 1.00PM FRIDAY 24 AUGUST AND RE-OPEN AT 21 VICTORIA SQUARE ON WEDNESDAY 29 AUGUST.

Panorama entries must be in by 5pm Monday. Contributions may be faxed to 9227 7087, emailed to administration@therecord.com.au or mailed to PO box 75, Leederville, WA 6902. Submissions over 55 words will be edited or excluded. Inclusion is limited to 4 weeks. Events charging over $10 constitute a classified event, and will be charged accordingly. The Record reserves the right to decline or modify any advertisment. Please do not re-submit Panoramas once they are in print.

This is not the only Swedish innovation

Like its engineering, Sweden’s approach to issues like the sexual exploitation of women and girls is innovative.

In 1999 Sweden adopted new laws decriminalising prostitutes and criminalising the men who buy sex.

A public education campaign like this poster above helped more people to see the real victims of prostitution

- the women and the girls lured or trapped into it. How did the Swedes do it? They put women first.

Today, Swedish authorities are justifiably proud that they have vastly reduced the incidence of prostitution and assisted so many women and girls to escape.

The result is so successful, Finland and Norway have adopted policies based on the Swedish model. Now the European Union is looking at the Scandinavian experience as well. It’s a lesson well worth examining.