The Record Newspaper 27 November 2003

Pr Pr a ay with John P y with John P aul II aul II

NOVEMBER

General: That the Christians of the West may constantly increase their knowledge and appreciation of the spirituality and liturgical traditions of the Oriental Churches.

Missionary: That the Church in America,celebrating the Second American Missionary Congress in Guatemala,may be inspired to more generous evangelising activity even beyond her own frontiers.

WA’s only Catholic weekly newspaper

Perth: 27 November 2003 Price: $1

For this they die

British life groups back challenge to abortion of cleft-palate baby

By Paulinus Barnes

British pro-life groups have backed a legal challenge concerning the abortion of a child with a cleft lip and palate.

An Anglican vicar, the Rev. Joanna Jepson, said on November 19 she was asking the courts to review the decision of her local police force, the West Mercia Constabulary, not to investigate the abortion recently performed at a hospital in western England.

Newspaper reports of the legal challenge said the unnamed woman was more than 24 weeks pregnant and was therefore beyond the legal limit for abortion unless there is a risk of serious handicap.

Rev. Jepson, 27, curate of St. Michael's Church, Chester, said a cleft palate was not a serious handicap and that the law should prevent late abortions for "trivial" reasons. As a teenager, Rev. Jepson had surgery for a jaw defect. Her lawyer, Paul Conrathe, said in a November 18 statement: "While there is no definition of serious handicap, the common understanding of the man in the

street is that cleft palate is a fairly common condition and repaired routinely. We are asking for a ruling that cleft palate is not a serious handicap and that the police have misdirected themselves in law." An initial application to the High Court has been rejected, but Rev. Jepson said she would be making another application in early December.

"I don't see how a cleft palate can be classed as a serious handicap," she said. "It shows how enslaved we are to the notion that the value of our human life lies in physical perfection. This case raises the increasingly worrying concern of eugenics in our society."

A leading pro-life campaigner said the case showed that British

society was becoming callous. Nuala Scarisbrick, national administrator of Life, said on November 20, "That a child could be killed simply because of a condition which can often be almost completely repaired by modern surgery shows how callous we are becoming as a society, and how merciless the abortion industry now is.

"All abortion is wrong. But to destroy a special-needs baby just because he or she is less than 'perfect' is particularly despicable," she said. "It is impossible to believe that a cleft palate constitutes a 'serious handicap' as the Abortion Act understood that term."

Josephine Quintavalle, spokeswoman for the Pro-Life Alliance, told the London Daily Telegraph newspaper that she fully supported Rev. Jepson's action: "It is pure humbug that cleft palate is defined as a serious abnormality."

CNS

Bunbury initiative will reach out to those in need

The Diocese of Bunbury has launched a new social outreach arm called Catholic Care.

Catholic Care will provide funding for people in need across the general community throughout the Diocese of Bunbury. Its motto will be “People Helping People”.

Bishop Gerard Holohan launched Catholic Care at the Bunbury Clergy Conference last week.

“It is appropriate the launch of Catholic Care is at a time when the clergy of the diocese have come together to focus on New Evangelisation” he said.

“Catholic Care is fundamental

to the very essence of our social outreach to those in need. It represents Catholic faith in action.”

Bishop Holohan said the aim of Catholic Care is to raise funds through his annual Christmas Appeal for Catholic Care to provide for current and planned Church assistance for social needs apostolates throughout the Bunbury Diocese. “We see needs across different areas of the diocese, including family crises. In the special needs of the future, we plan to further expand the range of social services offered to the general community to include care of the

sick and elderly, suicide prevention, drug victims, and women facing a crisis pregnancy.”

Bishops Holohan called on all people in the diocese to give generously to those in need.

“Catholic Care needs your financial support, and so I appeal to your generosity during this time of Advent” he said.

“Please help to bring Church based financial support to the people who need our help.”

“Separately or individually we can do little to help the overall community.

“However, if we combine our efforts then together we can make a difference.” Bishop Holohan said.

Donations received by Catholic Care are tax deductible and will be used exclusively within the diocese.

All donations will be accounted for, independently of other diocesan and parish funds.

Distribution of funds will be under the control of the Bishop of Bunbury.

The Diocese of Bunbury’s Catholic Care can be contacted on (08)9721 0500.

Bishop Holohan

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Third grant for archives

The Archdiocesan Archives have received their third grant from the Commonwealth Government for the preservation of the historical records of the Church in WA.

Archivist Sr Francis Stibi said the grant of $4500 would be used to buy the most appropriate boxes and other storage containers to preserve archival material. Unless stored properly, documents and other historical records would deteriorate.

The two previous grants were for an assessment of the needs of the archives and for the purchase of storage boxes.

This year’s grant was announced by the Federal Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp at a function in Canberra attended by archival advisory board member, Mr Patrick Moore.

Mr Moore, who has worked for the State Library Service since 1970, has been a member of the advisory board for nearly six years and has been closely involved in the preparation of the archives’ applications for Commonwealth grants.

Two more priests for Perth

Archbishop Barry Hickey will ordain two more priests in St Mary’s Cathedral next Saturday, December 6, taking the total of ordinations in the last six years to 42.

They are Deacon Milton Arias Pacheco (28), from Colombia, and Clesio Do Nascinento Mendes (34), from Brazil.

Both have been training at Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Morley since 1996 and both have completed Bachelor of Theology degrees at Notre Dame University in Fremantle.

Since they were ordained as dea-

cons on July 11 this year, Milton has been working in the Cathedral parish and Clesio has spent the last few weeks at Mirrabooka after helping out in a parish in Sydney.

The two men will take to 18 the number of priests ordained from the Redemptoris Mater Seminary since it

was officially established in August 1994. There are currently 18 seminarians in training there and it is hoped that there will be four more next year. The ordination ceremony will start at 10am in the Cathedral on December 6.

Vinnies appeal

With only 6 weeks to go the State’s largest charity the St Vincent de Paul Society is concerned that it will not meet its target of $500,000.

To date only a handful of gifts have been received. Last year St Vinnies helped over 36,000 children and this Christmas requires 20,000 gifts and 7,000 hampers to distribute to those in need.

“Every spare dollar that is donated to the Christmas Appeal makes a real difference,” explained Mr Brian Bull, State President.

“I would ask all West Australians to get behind us and help the poor, the lonely, the frail, the vulnerable, those seeking refuge and especially children.

“Help us through your generous donations make a difference and bring some Christmas cheer into their lives.”

“One hundred per cent of the money received through the Christmas Appeal goes directly to those less fortunate, and all donations $2 and over are tax deductible,” he added.

Across Australia St Vinnies assists more than 3,000 people every day, mostly in their homes.

The assistance might be a box of groceries, or help with a bill, a clothing voucher, or other essential items. “We can all enjoy the spirit of Christmas knowing that we have given something, no matter how small, to someone less fortunate.”

Marketing Manager Marisa Powell said WA families still need the support of the community. In the New Year, there will be the additional costs of school uniforms, bags and books to add to living expenses. Donations can be made by calling 9475 5416.

Heritage award for St Columba’s Church

By Debbie Warrier

St Columba’s Church in South Perth will be one of the buildings to be recognised at the Art Deco Society Heritage Awards 2003 ceremony to be held at the Old Observatory in West Perth, on Friday November 28.

6005

St Columba’s Parish priest Father Michael Casey will be present to receive the award from the society.

“I think it is very commendable that South Perth parishioners have been forwardthinking enough in preserving

this special Spanish mission style church,” said Art Deco Society president Vyonne Geneve.

The Awards are for the preservation and conservation of heritage buildings from the Art Deco period which is generally regarded as being from approximately 1925 to 1950.

The awards will take the form of suitably inscribed plaques accompanied by certificates of Commendation.

The Art Deco Society is a non profit making, communitybased organisation dedicated

Correction

In last week’s paper it appeared that $1.5 million had been raised to support The Living Centre, the Archdiocese’s centre for helping people affected with HIV/AIDS.

That is the amount provided by the Sisters of St

to the identification and conservation of art, artefacts and architecture from the inter-war period in Western Australia.

The Society has been in existence for 16 years.

Through its advocacy classic Art Deco buildings like the Mosman Park Memorial Hall, the Royal WA Institute for the Blind in Maylands, and many of WA’s Art Deco cinemas and hotels from the period have been preserved.

Those attending the awards evening are asked to wear 1930’s or formal dress.

John of God and the Archdiocese in establishing and sustaining the centre over the last thirteen years.

The Fund for F.A.I.T.H. is a committee now raising funds to help to continue the work. The Living Centre is also one of the 12 agencies that benefit from the Archbishop’s Lifelink appeal which is currently in progress.

Senator Rod Kemp (left) the Federal Minister for Arts and Sport, presents the grant certificate to Mr Patrick Moore, of the archives advisory board.

Deacon Milton Arias Pacheco Deacon Clesio Do Nascinento Mendes

Teaching the ABC’s of Love

Sardinia, ZENIT.org - The archbishop of Cagliari in Sardinia has been teaching young people in school, but their classes aren't the usual fare of trigonometry and physics and history.

The classes are about love and marriage and happiness.

For the past two months Archbishop Giuseppe Mani has been engaged in dialogue with young people who seek answers to fundamental human questions.

The program, centred on the family, youth and vocations, started Nov. 4 with a "Scuola di Vita" (school of life), which will continue until May 30.

Young men and women are invited to attend the "school," where there will be discussions on happiness, love, marriage and vocations to service, all led by

Christmas Carols?

City and country parishes that will be conducting Christmas carole services or gatherings are asked to let The Record know when and where yours will be on so that we can publish a guide for readers in the leadup to Christmas.

Information about your Christmas Carole services can be emailed to Kylie at The Record at: administration@therecord.com.au or by fax to (08) 9227 7087. Details can also be sent to POBox 75 Leederville WA 6902.

Archbishop Mani on this Italian island.

Every two weeks, the archbishop will initiate the meetings. Lessons will be held on Tuesdays at the Cagliari diocesan seminary, on Wednesdays at the Shrine of Our Lady of Bonaria, on Thursdays at St. Elena's Church in Quartu, and on Fridays in Guasila, a town 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the capital.

The archbishop has sent messages to parishes and educational institutions to invite young people. He published a letter in the "Scuola di Vita" Web page directed to youths who are wondering: "What will I do tomorrow? What will I do when I grow up?"

"I know very well that it is not easy to make fundamental choices on your own that will turn you

into a real masterpiece. I suggest a travel companion for you: Jesus Christ," the archbishop proposes.

To facilitate the meetings with youth, Archbishop Mani has given his own e-mail in "Scuola di Vita," establishing a forum in which the young men and women attending the meetings can share their thoughts and concerns.

With this forum he has launched a new way of carrying out pastoral work.

The formation course planned by the archbishop is summarised in a pastoral letter entitled To Live and Respond

Less to do

Vatican trims pope's Christmas schedule, omitting some January events

By Cindy Wooden

Pope John Paul II's Christmas season schedule has been trimmed, apparently excluding his usual ordination of new bishops on the January 6 feast of the Epiphany and his custom of baptising infants on the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.

The pope's liturgical schedule for December and January lists him as presiding over six events, but does not specify if he will be the principal celebrant of the liturgies.

The Vatican released the 83year-old pope's schedule on November 25.

The schedule includes:

to the Basilica of St. Mary Major.

● A December 11 Mass with Rome university students in preparation for Christmas.

● Christmas Mass at midnight in St. Peter's Basilica.

● The December 25 solemn blessing "urbi et orbi" (to the city and the world) at noon.

● An evening thanksgiving prayer service December 31 in St. Peter's Basilica.

● The Jan. 1 Mass for the feast of Mary, Mother of God, and World Peace Day in St Peter's Square.

It aims to help young people see life as a vocation, "not as work," and to reflect on important concerns, such as prayer and marriage.

- ZENIT

Morley parish seeks its former parishioners - and yesteryear’s memories

As part of its coming jubilee celebrations Infant Jesus parish in Morley plans to research and publish its history spanning the 50 years from 1954 to 2004.

The Parish would like to hear from anyone who has a historical story or experience to relate.

To keep the exercise in focus the 50 years is being divided into each 10-year period ie 1954 to 1963, 1964 to 1973 and so on to the present.

Right now all that is required is names of interested people,

The Little Rock Mass

By Debbie Warrier

This year at Kellerberrin Parish saw the revival of a Rock Mass with a difference. An estimated 100 people turned up at Little Rock to participate in the celebration of the Mass as part of the of the local Church’s community evangelisation plan. The special Mass used to be an annual event but stopped for a period of time due to changes in the community. For instance, like the decline in population, young people going to the city to study or work.

“The people of the country are resilient and this Mass is one of the ways we are trying to foster community spirit in the parish,” said Parish

● Laying a wreath at a Marian statue in central Rome on the December 8 feast of the Immaculate Conception, but not making his annual visit afterward

especially past parishioners, contact detail and the decade in which the contribution will relate to. Volunteers are being asked not to worry about the relevance of their story/experience - that can come later.

Any reader who can help with this project or wants any information, please register with the Parish office. Phone 9276 8500, fax 9375 7810 or email: ijparish@iinet.net.au. In the meantime do offer a prayer for this endeavour.

priest Fr Geoff Aldous. Fr Aldous has been parish priest for six months and was delighted to see the community come together for the Mass that was held at Reed’s farm in York Ravine. Farmers constructed a rock altar especially for the occasion. The previous annual Mass was called the York Ravine Rock Mass after the place where it was held. As part of a continuation of the tradition, when the site was changed they called it the Little Rock Mass. Fr Aldous said grandparents who had attended the Mass were delighted to see their children and grand children being involved and the tradition restored.

In addition, Vatican Radio reported that the pope would hold his annual meeting with cardinals and Vatican officials on Dec. 22; his speech for the occasion usually provides a review of the past year in the life of the church. The radio said he would not hold his weekly general audiences on December 24 and 31. A Vatican official said the fact that the calendar did not go beyond January 1 indicated no other papal liturgical events were scheduled for the month. - CNS

Santa Maria College

Moreing Road,Attadale WA 6156

Santa Maria College is a Catholic secondary day and boarding college for the education of girls.

Established in 1938 by the Sisters of Mercy, the College continues the long and proud Mercy tradition of service to others and the pursuit of academic, cultural and sporting excellence.

Applications are invited for the following position of

Sacristan

The Sacristan provides care for the College Chapel, sacristy, vestments and other altar equipment and supplies.This Ministry will require flexibility and availability after hours and on weekends.

An information package can be obtained from the College website www.santamaria.wa.edu.au or by contacting the Principal’s Personal Assistant on (08) 9329 1541 or dudj@santamaria.wa.edu.au

Closing date for applications: Friday,12 December 2003

Evangelisation plan - Catholics from Kellerberrin gather for Mass in the open.

More people go hungry

World's hungry rising by 5 million a year, says U.N. report

By Stephen Steele

About 842 million people worldwide are undernourished, with the number of chronically hungry people growing by nearly 5 million a year, according to a report by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization.

The report, released on Nov. 25, said the fight against world hunger was being lost and that countries would not meet the 1996 World Food Summit goal to halve the number of undernourished people by 2015.

Data from 1995-1997 and from 1999-2001 showed an increase of 18 million undernourished people, wiping out decreases achieved in the early 1990s.

The report said there were 798 million undernourished people in developing nations, with the number of hungry continuing to rise in sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa and the Middle East.

“The number of undernourished people in the developing world is no longer falling but climbing," the report said.

The U.N. agency called for an international alliance against hunger "based not on a plea for charity but on a demand for justice and an appeal to the selfinterest of almost everyone.”

The report cited a variety of environmental, economic and political factors for the increase in world hunger.

"Bluntly stated, the problem is

not so much a lack of food as a lack of political will," it said.

"The vast majority of the world's hungry people live in rural areas of the developing world, far from the levers of power and beyond the range of vision of the media and the public in developed countries," it said.

“The lack of adequate food threatens people's very existence and cripples their ability to benefit from education, employment and political participation and to contribute to economic and societal development."

Nineteen countries reduced the number of hungry people by 80 million by 2001, but those gains were being pressured by economic and socal factors, such as a rise in AIDS in poor countries and agricultural trade tariffs that favour rich countries over poor countries.

Countries that reduced hunger had faster economic growth, slower population growth, and lower levels of HIV infection. The findings confirm the World Food Summit's action plan for food security -- rapid economic and agricultural growth and a social safety net ensuring that the poor get enough to eat.

“We know what needs to be done, and the world produces more than enough food for everyone.”

China has reduced its undernourished by 58 million, and Vietnam by 3 million. In July 36 countries required international food aid. While drought and other natural disasters remained the most common cause of food shortages, "an increasing proportion were man-made."

It’s 60 for Fr Moore!

By Fr Robert O’Bryan

Fellow priests, religious and friends from around Western Australia and as far away as Melbourne and Brisbane gathered at St Francis Xavier Cathedral in Geraldton on November 18 to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Ordination of Fr Gregory Moore O.Carm.

Bishop Justin Bianchini of Geraldtron paid tribute to Fr Moore’s contribution to the Diocese of Geraldton.

“Most of the 20 years of Fr Moore’s parish ministry in the Diocese was in Tom Price/Paraburdoo. This is one of the most isolated areas of the Diocese. For half the year the climate is one of the harshest. Yet it is people that make the difference in these places.

Fr Moore with his selfless, dedicated and patient priestly ministry offered much to the people of those mining towns,” Bishop Bianchini said.

The priest was always “there for the people in their various needs,” he added.

“Whether formally or informally, Father Moore spoke to the people about our wonderful God. As one ex-parishioner puts it ‘Fr Moore is the closest man to God I have ever known’.”

Retirement had not seen Fr Moore slow down, either.

“While being cared for lovingly at Nazareth House, Fr Moore has continued his powerful yet gentle and prayerful ministry there over the last ten years.”

In congratulating Fr Moore on this historic milestone of 60 years of Priesthood Bishop Justin said, “Words cannot thank you and the Carmelite Congregation enough for your 60 years of Priestly ministry to the wider Australian Church.

“I would like to express my

own personal thanks and appreciation on behalf of our Diocese of Geraldton, for having generously given just on 28 years of that ministry (that is almost half) to us”.

Fr Moore was born in South Melbourne on 28 July 1915. He was educated at Mt Carmel College and C.B.C. Secondary College. He entered the Carmelite Order in 1936, taking his first vows a year later. He was ordained a priest in 1943 by Archbishop Daniel Mannix of Melbourne. Fr Moore has held various offices during his 60 years as a Carmelite Priest. He was a lec-

turer in Philosophy from 1945 to 1960, during which time he also served as Provincial for the Carmelite Order in the years 1954 – 1960.

In an article he wrote for the Sower, Fr Moore said he felt his vocation was nourished by his parents, with the support of the Carmelite Fathers, the Christian Brothers and the Blessed Sacrament Fathers.

Before entering Carmel, the Prior of the time thought that the then Greg Moore should look at something else when he said to Fr Moore’s Dad, “You know, Tom you would be doing far better if you married him off to a rich widow, preferably with a pub.”

Pilgrims flock to shrine for celebration

Several hundred pilgrims from parishes across Perth visited the Shrine of Our Lady of the Revelation at Bullsbrook on Sunday 23rd November to celebrate with Perth Sacri members the Annual Feast of Christ the King.

The Sacri group in Perth is an offshoot of the Sacri movement established in Rome in 1948. It is an association of lay people concerned with furthering their understanding of Church teaching and the Scriptures through regular weekly catechetical meetings.

Emeritus Bishop Peter Quinn was the principal celebrant of the Mass and carried the Blessed Sacrament in procession as the Rosary was recited by those participating in the event.

A guard of honour was provided by members of the Equestrian Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. The ceremony concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

In his homily Bishop Quinn outlined ways in which people encounter God’s presence. The divine presence is to be recognised in the forces of creation, our understanding of which is constantly being expanded through scientific exploration, he said. This elementary awareness takes root and finds expression in the individual’s care for the environment entrusted to him by a benevolent God to use and not to

abuse.

Finally, our ultimate awareness is to be seen in evangelisation where efforts are constantly made to bring others to a recognition of God’s presence. This work of evangelisation is essentially by the example of God-centred lives.

The foundation of the Sacri organisation followed from a series of visionary experiences by Bruno Cornacchiola in 1947 at Tre Fontane approximately 50 kilometres outside of Rome. At the time, Cornacchiola was an avowed atheist who had vowed to kill Pope Pius XII. Approval by the Holy See for the Sacri organisation was granted in 1949. Bruno Cornacchiola visited Perth in 1975.

Church and shrine originated with visions

Bruno Cornacchiola’s visit to Perth in 1975 came after a chance meeting in Rome with the Lombardo family who were visiting the city from Perth. Impressed with Cornacchiola the family vowed that a shrine to honour Our Lady under the title of Virgin of The Revelation, Mother of God and Mother of the Church, would be established in the Archdiocese of Perth.

The family made land available from family holdings at Bullsbrook, and the project was launched. Firstly a small grotto, then, as pilgrims grew in numbers, a church with accommodation for 600 people, were built. Then, an external shrine was added. The whole complex, set in extensive gardens, provides an outstanding devotional facility for pilgrims.

Each Sunday afternoon, special devotions are practised - Reconciliation, Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, Anointing of the Sick and the Celebration of Mass.

Details may be obtained from the Association’s Secretary Mrs. Aileen Davison, 02 9447 3292

A guard of honour escorts the Blessed Sacrament during the celebration at Bullsbrook.

Fr Moore, left, with Bishop Justin Bianchini of Geraldton.

USbusinesses reap the porn dollar

and bishops try to hold the line through investment guidelines

By Mark Pattison

Whenthe US bishops approved an updated version of their guidelines on socially responsible investing at their general meeting in November, they included several concerns that were barely a blip on the radar screen in 1991, when their last investment guidelines had been prepared.

New to the list are embryonic stem-cell research, human cloning, land-mine production, biotechnical research, labour sweatshops, human rights, predatory lending - and pornography.

Why pornography, and why now?

Pornography's been around a long time. But in recent years, some of the nation's biggest media companies have entered the porn business. And, even if they've done so indirectly, it's enough for the bishops to consider working to change the firms' corporate behaviour - or, failing that, the bishops' own investment strategy.

A year ago, Cardinal William Keeler of Baltimore and five other members of the Religious Alliance Against Pornography

met with US Attorney General John Ashcroft to seek a more vigorous public prosecutorial stance against pornography. They identified three Fortune 500 companies then involved in porn: AT&T and Comcast through their cable TV franchises, and General Motors through its ownership of the Echostar satellite TV service.

In the year since, no high-profile purveyors of porn have faced federal indictments or charges.

It's not as if the companies weren't aware that pornography had become part of their busi-

WANTED VOLUNTEER WORKERS

KIMBERLEY CATHOLIC VOLUNTEER SERVICE

The Diocese of Broome, Western Australia has immediate vacancies for volunteers to serve on remote Missions and Communities in the Kimberley as:catechists, house parents, farm labourers, handymen, housekeepers, nurses, domestic staff, mechanics, plumbers, carpenters, administrators, bookkeepers, secretaries, general hands, electricians, tutors.

Placements are for a period of twelve months to two years

For further details and an application form please contact: Bishop Christopher Saunders

Ph:(08) 9192 1060 Fax (08) 9192 2136 email:secretary@broomediocese.org

PO Box 76 Broome WA 6725

ness portfolio. The religious leaders had been after them for two years to get them to stop distributing porn. When they got nowhere with the Fortune 500 firms, they took their case to Ashcroft.

At issue were programs supplied by the Hot Network. But the Hot Network is far from the only player in the porn-on-TV scene. And by porn, I'm not talking about the gauzily shot, romantic, morality/immorality tales shown late at night on the premium cable channels, but the hardcore

stuff. Cable and satellite franchises are now offered a variety of porn channels based not only on the standard race/age/sex demographics but also how deeply -- or how scantily -- edited the porn videos are. The less editing there is, the more raunch you'd see. You can make an argument that easier access to porn has helped fuel media technology development.

The porn movie houses of a generation ago eventually closed when the same material was available on VHS videocassettes for viewing in your own home. Most video stores today still have an "adult" section where such tapes and DVDs are available for rent or purchase.

And the premium-priced adult cable channel of years ago is being eclipsed by pay-per-view porn, with titles available to start whenever the viewer wants -- and with the TV knowing where to send the bill. The latest case in point: a pay-per-view series in January, "Can You Be a Porn Star?", which rightfully got a "jeer" in the "Cheers & Jeers" page in the Nov. 22 issue of TV Guide, which said, "This is a new low, even by pay-per-view standards."

If pornography is such a consistent moneymaker, it's no surprise that Fortune 500 executives are as addicted to its revenues as porn's consumers are to its content. Even before the high-tech bubble

burst two years ago, conventional wisdom held that only two kinds of Web sites actually made money for their owners. One kind was porn sites. The other was The Wall Street Journal.

At a bishops' meeting a decade ago, Cardinal Roger M. Mahony of Los Angeles -- arguably the entertainment capital of the world -- made an intervention on the meeting floor.

He complained that the in-room TVs in the hotel in which the bishops were meeting had porn movies available. He wondered aloud whether the bishops should continue to patronise a hotel that offered such fare not only to them but to families staying at the hotel.

That hotel, it should be noted, is no longer used by the bishops. But one would be hard-pressed to find a hotel that doesn't offer pornography in its rooms as a revenue enhancer. It's every bit as lucrative as the in-room "guest bar."

It is the encroachment of porn, from the seedy Times Squarestyle districts in cities across America to the typical family living room, that gives bishops pause. American families already have to contend with the creeping sexualisation of society and how it plays out in their households.

Pattison is media editor for Catholic News Service.

“Duc in altum!” – “Put out into the deep”.

Pope John Paul II has chosen these words of Jesus as the watchword of the Church as she advances with a firm and confident step into the third millennium. Now he has shed new light on the Holy Rosary for us too, and has entrusted it to us as a priceless means of help as we venture forth into the “vast ocean” of the new millennium. By adding the five Luminous Mysteries the Holy Father has enriched our prayer life. The Rosary booklet contains all 20 mysteries as well as excerpts from the Holy Father’s apostolic letter Rosarium Virginis Mariae, scripture readings, meditations and prayers.

This booklet is intended not only for those who have already enjoyed a Christian upbringing, but also for all those who were deprived of this and are therefore unfamiliar with the great treasure that is the Rosary. This beautifully illustrated little booklet is now available fora donation of $3.00 (includes postage). Also available are the Papal Rosary beads. To obtain the Rosary booklet and the Vatican Rosary beads we ask fora donation of

If you would like to know more about life as a Norbertine priest or brother, please contact:

Fr Peter J Stiglich, O.Praem. St Joseph’s Priory PO Box 354

Cannington WA 6987

Telephone: (08) 9458 2729

Email: norbert@iinet.net.au

Cardinal William Keeler considers a question at the National Press Club in Washington as he and other religious leaders discuss their meeting with Attorney General John Ashcroft on December 6, 2002. Photo:CNS

WORD

Sunday on

by Norma Woodcock

‘Stand with confidence before God’

We come now to the season of Advent, when we await the coming of our Saviour Jesus Christ, not only his first coming in the stable at Bethlehem, but also his second coming at the end of time. It is a time of preparing our hearts and minds, for the unknown moment when Jesus will call us to himself, by looking at our lives and amending them.

Let us focus on the Gospel, Luke 21:25-28, 34-36. The warning of Cosmic disasters and the coming of the Son of Man. V25 & 26, ‘Jesus said to his disciples.’ “There will be signs in the sun & moon & stars; on earth nations in agony, bewildered by the clamour of the ocean & its waves; men dying of fear as they await what menaces the world, for the powers of heaven will be shaken.”

Isn’t it true that if we focus on the signs of the times we live in we can easily despair. ‘What will become of the world.’ ‘What sort of world is this for our children & our children’s children to be brought up in.’ We can shake our heads & look down at the ground with a feeling of doom & gloom, OR – let us continue with the Gospel V27 & 28. ‘And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand erect, hold your head high, because your liberation is near at hand.’

This must surely give us confidence & hope. Luke is telling us that in contrast to the cowardly actions of other men & women (V26), we, Christ’s disciples, must stand erect with heads held high, waiting for Jesus’ coming.

The New Jerome Biblical Commentary, P714 on V27 & 28 says. ‘Jesus, the victorious Son of Man, is in control of the forces of evil. Whether these are waves (V9) or sea (V25), he is the judge.’

Omitted from the Gospel this week but relevant to this message are the next verses, 29-33. Jesus tells a parable. ‘Think of the fig tree & indeed every tree. As soon as you see them bud, you know that summer is now near. So with you when you see these things happening: know that the kingdom of God is near,

St Ambrose says on this scripture. ‘The fig tree therefore has a two-fold meaning, either as meaning when the hard fruit grows tender, or when sin abounds. Verse 34 tells us to be on the alert about the way we live. ‘Watch yourselves, or your hearts will be coarsened with debauchery & drunkenness & the cares of life, and then that day will be sprung on you suddenly, like a trap.’

Yes sin abounds. We must be watchful. Are we caught up in the ways of the world and are we sinking under the worries and cares of life and not trusting God?

Perhaps the message for us is the one St Ambrose gave about the fig tree. How tender is our fruit? You know, many years ago before my conversion I lived the ways of the world, then after my conversion to Christ, I lived like a Pharisee. I was so self righteous, I had the message of truth, others didn’t. I was saved, others weren’t. But I don’t think I was very loving. My fruit was hard, not ripe.

How many of us live expecting redemption automatically but really fail to live redeemed lives. Surely this must be offensive to God. We must become tender – hearted – our fruit must ripen. Our love for God and thus each other must grow. Then we can live the last verse of today’s Gospel V36, ‘Stay awake, praying at all times for the strength to survive all that is going to happen and to stand with confidence before the Son of Man.’

Norma Woodcock is the Director of The Centre for Catholic Spiritual Development and Prayer. Website: www.normawoodcock.com

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OpinionReflection &

Catholic opinions from around Australia

I Say, I Say....

the Confessions of a church music criminal

In February 1970 I joined the Youth Group in my parish. I thought it would be a good way to meet girls. I could play a few chords on the guitar and sing loudly and I was sure that would impress them.

Instead of impressing the girls, I impressed the assistant Priest of the parish who wanted to start a Folk Mass. He talked me and two other members of the youth group into playing at it.

So Josh, Ben and I (not our real names) learnt four songs and played them at the Folk Mass every week for the next six months. We would set up our amplifier and speakers at the front of the church on Sunday evening, plug in our guitars and microphones and give it all we had. What we lacked in musical competence we made up for in enthusiasm and volume.

After six months we - and

the congregation - were fed up with those four songs, so we learnt four more. Then people started to tell us about the songs that were being sung in other parishes. We got copies of the words and chords and learnt them and soon we had quite a repertoire. We did not care too much about what the words of the songs were; as long as they mentioned Jesus or Mary we thought they would be all right.

One of the girls in the youth group was taking a secretarial course and could type so we got her to type up the word of the songs for us. We made up song sheets, which were used by the congregation. After a while, we decided to make up our own hymn books by putting the song sheets together in loose leaf folders.

After a few years Josh got married. Ben and I played at his wedding. Ben’s sister

joined us and she sang a song that we learnt specially for the occasion: I Don’t Know How To Love Him from the rock musical Jesus Christ Superstar.

After that things started going downhill. Josh stopped playing with us soon after his marriage. Then Ben got married and he gave it away too. I kept on, singing the songs in our hymn books until the parish installed an overhead projector.

In the eighties and nineties, I drifted from parish to parish, sometimes joining an existing group, sometimes leading the singing on my own. I still sang the songs that I had learnt in the seventies but kept adding to my repertoire. Somehow it was not the same. I still made a lot of noise, but the enthusiasm had gone.

Finally I decided that I needed help. I started taking counselling sessions and

attending the workshops run by the Archdiocesan Liturgy Office. Gradually I began to see the errors of my ways.

After thirty years as a Church Music Criminal, I am now a reformed character. I know that the role of music ministers is to lead the people in sung prayer, not to entertain them. I understand that music is an integral part of liturgical celebrations and that the people’s acclamations and the Responsorial Psalm should be sung. I choose songs that suit the liturgical season, the readings of the day and the culture of the congregation. I realise that unauthorised use of copyright material is theft and avoid it.

Finally, I realise that I still have a lot to learn about music in liturgy and that it is my responsibility to keep renewing myself in this important ministry.

Inspiration from death

By Paula Doyle

Beth Nimmo, mother of Rachel Scott, one of the Columbine High School students killed during a shooting rampage at the Littleton, Colorado, school four years ago, said the tragic event "demands a spiritual response." During a November ceremony at St Genevieve High School in Panorama City, the mother of 17-year-old Rachel told students and staff that God was preparing people before the killings on April 20 "for his witness." She described her daughter as bubbly and outgoing and as someone who "had a strong love and devotion to Jesus Christ."

According to Nimmo, Rachel had a premonition of her death and wrote in a journal on May 2, 1998: "This will be my last year." Other journal writings, gathered in a book by Nimmo called "Journals of Rachel Scott," reveal that the teen had a "heavy heart" over the society "we've created" where kids kill kids.

Nimmo displayed a drawing Rachel had made in class the morning of her death, which shows 13 tears falling from a pair of eyes and a rose watered by 17 drops of blood. She said the drawing symbolically represents the 13 Columbine victims, killed by two fellow students, and the 17 years of her daughter's life.

"There is triumph in Columbine -- many wonderful things have come out of it," said Nimmo. "I'm proud that my daughter died for something that's worthy," she said, pointing out that the Columbine killers were overheard taunting Rachel for her Christian faith.

"Her life was all about character," the mother added.

Nimmo's address was part of a St. Genevieve High School celebration recognising the school's 2003 National School of Character Award. More than 700 people attended the event.

Each year, 10 schools receive this award given by the Washington-based Character Education Partnership and according to the school materials, St. Genevieve is the first Catholic school in the nation, and the first school in California, to receive the award. The school's "Journeys in Character Education" curriculum was initiated specifically in response to Columbine.

"We are a living, breathing Christian experience, and we nurture the inner core of our students which is what character is all about," Dan Horn, St. Genevieve's principal, told The Tidings, archdiocesan newspaper of Los Angeles, before the ceremony.

According to Horn, the staff at St Genevieve's made a conscious decision to learn lessons from the Columbine tragedy by creating a "more welcoming environment for all."

He said the staff members also envisioned the school as "a living monument to all of those who had lost their lives or who had lost loved ones to school violence." - CNS

A good month lies ahead

December is a good month for Catholics. We have just celebrated the feast of Christ the King to remind us who is the Lord of history, the king of all in time and eternity. He is the king who could not be defeated even by death, so we have nothing to fear from a culture that very largely rejects him.

Now we move on to the season of Advent, when we prepare to celebrate the birth of our king in the most abject weakness. The king of all made himself as helpless as a baby, so that his subjects need have no fear in their own weakness. He trusted humanity in his helplessness, and we can trust him in ours.

Early in Advent, we celebrate the king’s mother in the great feast of the Immaculate Conception. This feast is loved by all Catholics, one suspects, but it has special significance in the Archdiocese of Perth because all of us are in a sense dedicated to her through the dedication of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (known as St Mary’s Cathedral).

The feast goes back at the least to the 8th Century, although the dogma was only infallibly proclaimed by Pope Pius IX on December 8, 1854. The period from 1830 has been a spiritually spectacular

Sex statistics not quite right

While I agree fully with the tone of your editorial and your complaint about the journalistic deficiencies in this program, your use of statistics to support your argument similarly exposes you to complaint.

You state “Each act of intercourse ... would expose the woman to at least a 15 percent chance of contracting a fatal infection”. This is clearly not correct, reflecting a misunderstanding about the meaning of “85 percent reduction in infection”. If your statement were true, assuming typical frequency of intercourse, the woman would have a 99.8 percent chance of being infected within 3 months and almost no chance of avoiding infection after a year.

Normally, contraceptive effectiveness rates refer to the number of pregnancies per 100 women using a method for 1 year. It is likely that the same calculation method is used for infection rates. In this case, your statement needed to be something like “a woman using condoms for every act of intercourse over a period of one year would have 15 percent chance of contracting a fatal infection.” While such a level of risk is hardly a recommendation for using condoms, 15% is a far cry from almost 100%!

David White Riverton

Courage questioned

I fear there will be many parents disturbed by the article in today’s Record (Having Courage 20 Nov).

I find it distressing because I believe it is ill-informed, badly researched and not well presented. It will cause much anxiety and confusion for young parents who are subject to many stresses already in this present social upheaval.

Fr Harvey is quoted as saying it is not easy to recognise signs of future same sex attractions and then goes o to give a wide range of often faulty examples of danger signs.

There is no mention at all of children’s normal play patterns or of environmental

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period in which Mary has demonstrated to us over and over just how deeply she is involved in the march of history and in the daily lives of those who attend to her.

In 1830 Our Lady told St Catherine Laboure that she was “conceived without sin” and also told her about both the wealth of graces she sheds on those who ask for them and the graces that are not given because “souls forget to ask for them”.

At that time she gave instructions for making the Medal of the Immaculate Conception, and once it was made she proved the truth of her words by pouring out so many graces on people who wore it that it quickly became known as the Miraculous Medal, the name by which it is still known.

Following Pius IX’s declaration in 1854, Our Lady appeared to St Bernadette Soubirous at Lourdes and, when asked

who she was, declared “I am the Immaculate Conception”.

Lourdes has since become the site of innumerable miracles of grace in physical, mental and spiritual healing, and of help in many other things.

Sadly, the strangest mystery about all this is that so many Catholics allow themselves and their children to go through life without ever being aware of the loving help that is so easily available.

The reason for Mary’s remarkable influence in human affairs is contained in the birth of the one who is both God’s son and her son. This feast of Christmas makes her the Mother of God, and Jesus, the sinless one, continues to live out the commandment to honour his Father and his Mother. That is why she has so many graces to pour out on all the other children he gave into her care as he was dying on the Cross.

These are year-round truths that the Church teaches and Catholics enjoy, but December is a special time that each year brings so many things into fresh perspective and outbreaks of peace and joy.

These truths, and the personal experience we have of them in our hearts and lives, are the reason we are so often separated from the rest of the community we

But surprise, surprise, the ABC was once again sniping at the Catholic Church and Rome and Pope John Paul II in particular.

The blatant attacks levelled at Catholicism by ‘everybody’s’ ABC seem to be based mainly on unsubstantiated hearsay.

The message being that ‘the church’ has an agenda to spread AIDS throughout Africa.

We were not shown the many hospices and hospitals, staffed by Catholic Nuns, where those suffering with AIDS are cared for with love, kindness and dignity until the day they die.

I urge everyone to write a letter of protest to the ABC.

live in. We see and experience a different world, and we must not make the mistake of blaming those who cannot see. We must always proclaim the truth, and often dispute the reasoning of social policies and programs that are based on error, but we must always live the prayer of our King on the cross “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” We must always remember that the light is more easily seen in how we live than in how we speak.

We must also remember that the Lord of history knows what he is doing, and therefore the march of history is designed to help us to live and teach the Gospel more perfectly. The truth is always present in the Church, but it is not always obvious.

December is a time when even those who do not want to acknowledge Jesus are moved by the celebration of his birth to share in the goodness which flows from him. It is a time when they are more open to the touch of his love.

It is therefore a time for us to deepen our attachment to Jesus and Mary so that they may more easily use us as channels of grace to others even without our knowing it.

Advent is a great time. Let us make the most of it.

their jobs. It was only when they began to trust their interviewers that all the prostitutes without exception admitted their mind-numbing depression. This is why drugs are part and parcel of the prostitution scene.

A few sex workers do save their money and retire in comfort - but drugs and pimps ensure that most do not. Former sex worker Linda Watson, who helps girls quit prostitution through Linda’s House of Hope in Perth, says one of the hardest things about her new role is attending the funerals of working girls who have died.

factors such as the number and gender of siblings. No mention of the all-boy or allgirl family, or of the boy who arrives after five sisters, or the reverse.

I’m sure many older parents will agree with me that family composition and the child’s position in the family affects children’s play and behaviour quite apart from the many other social factors influencing a child’s life.

It alarms me to think of parents making mountains out of molehills and possibly interfering with their children’s normal development.

As for the suggestions of psychoanalysis and therapy – that is really alarming.

Johanna Bowen Stoneville

Reaping a destiny

The very pertinent centre page article in last week’s paper titled ‘Doing the right thing, at the right time for the right reason’ reminded me of the the saying ‘Sow a thought, reap an action, Sow an action, reap a habit, Sow a habit, reap a destiny.’ Its a mantra we could all learn with profit, and the earlier the age learnt, the better.

Barry Morgan Samson

Foreign perspective

I agree with your comments on the recent Foreign Correspondent program entitled Sex and the Holy City.

One would expect the ‘holy city’ to be a reference to Jerusalem.

K Brosnan Geraldton

Should we really react?

This letter is not a criticism of you article on “sex and the holy city” but an observation. As vicar of Christ on earth Pope John Paul II makes statements on the Church’s teachings which are “binding on earth as in heaven.”

Should we react to other peoples’ criticism or accept it as part of the cross we have to carry, and humbly turn the other cheek, love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who treat us badly?

Let us do what we do best: comfort the sick, feed the poor, have compassion and love for our brothers and sisters and try to sanctify our own lives as best as we can and, if we don’t fully succeed, keep on trying.

Mike Chandler Yallingup

Pru’s rose-coloured specs

Sex Discrimination Commissioner Pru Goward, supposedly concerned about trafficking of women, has bought the lie that prostitution helps poor women have a better life.

Pru recognised some of the untruths she was told in the Delhi brothel - so why did she believe the rest?

Criminologists Cecilie Hoigard and Liv Finstad did an 11 year longitudinal study of Oslo prostitutes. In their book Backstreets they describe how the sex workers initially insisted they enjoyed

Newspaper ads entice Australian girls into prostitution with promises of big dollars and “no experience necessary”. State governments have abolished or no longer enforce laws against pimping. Trafficking of women is rife in our own backyard. Where is Pru Goward when you need her?

Roslyn Phillips, B Sc Dip Ed Adelaide

Worry over call

C orruption, nepotism and perversion of justice are horrible. As a citizen of any country in which these prevail, I would be frantic to improve my government.

I worry, however, when the Catholic Church takes it upon itself to recommend specific political candidates. This makes our church a political party or institution, not a religious one based on biblical teachings of Jesus.

I am convinced that if Jesus were around today and living in Indonesia, he would not be railing against the current government or suggesting a list of “clean” candidates. What he would be doing is exactly as he did two thousand years ago: preaching good, fundamental principles. He would then let the individual decide how to apply those principles.

Janet Thompson Narrogin

Ed:The Record understands that Indonesia’s bishops do not intend to publish lists of candidates who they say voters should support, but a guide to help voters choose candidates known for their integrity and support for social justice. The wording of the report in last week’s paper was ambiguous in that regard.

On the first Sunday of Advent, you may sprinkle the wreath with holy water and bless it before the first purple candle is lit. The appropriate Advent collect can be said as the candle[s] are lit each day of the week, followed by the blessing before meals, if you use the wreath at mealtime.

Blessing for the Advent Wreath

O God, by whose word all things are sanctified, pour forth your blessing upon this wreath and grant that we who use it may prepare our hearts for the Coming of Christ, and may receive from you abundant graces. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen. These prayers, faithful translations of the Latin Collects, or opening prayers of the Mass, may be said every evening when the Advent wreath is lit.

First Week

Advent prayers Preparing for the coming of Christ

Stir up your power, O Lord, and come, that by your protection we may be rescued from the dangers that beset us through our sins; and be a Redeemer to deliver us; Who lives and reignes with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Sp[rit, ever one God, world without end. Amen. In English-speaking countries, this Sunday was called "Stirrup Sunday", because the "stir-up" of the Collect was the signal to begin to "stir-up" the fruits for the baking of Christmas cakes and puddings.

Second Week

What is Advent?

According to the 2004 Catholic Almanac, "The liturgical year begins with the first Sunday of Advent, which introduces a season of four weeks or slightly less duration with the theme of expectation of the coming of Christ.

During the first two weeks, the final coming of Christ as Lord and Judge at the end of the world is the focus of attention.

From Decmber 17 to 24, the emphasis shifts to anticipation of the celebration of his Nativity on the solemnity of Christmas.

"Advent has four Sundays. Since the 10th century, the first Sunday has marked the beginning of the liturgical year in the Western Church. In the Middle Ages, a kind of pre-Christmas fast was in vogue during the season.

In addition, we learn "The Christmas season begins with the vigil of Christmas and lasts until the Sunday after January 6.

"The period between the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of Lent belongs to the Ordinary Time of the year. Of variable length, the pre-Lenten phase of this season includes what were formerly called the Sundays after Epiphany and the suppressed Sundays of Septuagesima, Sexagesima and Quinquagesima."

Even as Catholics honour the season through liturgy and worship, Christians around the world celebrate Advent and honor Jesus Christ in many ways: good works and generosity to those less fortunate, gift-giving, family get-togethers, and beautiful decorations.

How to celebrate Christmas as a Catholic

In our culture, the commercial observance of Christmas begins in mid-October or even earlier, as stores put out their holiday displays.

But the calendar Catholics live and celebrate by is different from the secular world’s.

When we let our faith and the ancient wisdom and tradition of the Church centre us as we plan, schedule, and organize our time, we’re celebrating Christmas as Catholics.

As Catholics, we prepare for Christmas by celebrating the season of Advent in the four weeks preceding Christmas.

During Advent, we prepare the way for the coming of the Lord in our own lives now — and in his fullness at the end of time.

Traditional Advent practices can help us do just that. Here are four ways to prepare for Christ’s Coming:

1.Use an Advent Wreath

The circular wreath with four candles reminds us of God’s eternal nature and the light Christ brings into our lives. Advent wreaths can be store-bought, or your family can make one with greenery native to your area. You can say a prayer and light the candles before dinner each night or at some other consistent time.

2.Make a Jesse Tree

The Messiah was expected to come from the line of King David, son of Jesse. The Jesse Tree is a way of remembering Jesus’ roots in Israel. Jesse Trees can be made of paper or even from the branch of a real tree. Hang from the branches each day a symbol of an important point in Israel’s history: an apple, Noah’s ark, Jacob’s ladder, David’s harp, and so on.

3.Count Down to Christmas with an Advent Calendar Advent calendars begin on December 1, with a door to be opened each day. Behind each door is a Scripture verse or small picture of a biblical scene. A calendar is great or keeping our focus (especially children’s) on the coming of Christ.

4.Discover the History of Santa on the Feast ofSaint Nicholas

St Nicholas of Myra’s feast on December 6 is celebrated in many European countries as a day to share gifts – often sweets — sometimes placed in shoes. As Europeans immigrated to the United States, various St Nicholas traditions combined and emerged as Santa Claus. Sharing the story of the very real St Nicholas can help us emulate the generosity of his faith-filled life and reclaim this Christian saint.

“ A d v e n t h a s f o u r S u n d a y s S n c e t h e 1 0 t h c e n t u r y t h e f i r s t S u n d a y h a s m a r k e d t h e b e g i n n n g o f t h e l i t u r g i c a l y e a r i n t h e W e s t e r n C h u r c h I n t h e M d d l e A g e s , a k i n d o f p r e - C h r i s t m a s f a s t w a s i n v o g u e d u r i n g t h e s e a s o n . ”

Advent wreath

The Advent wreath appears at this time of year in homes as well as churches. Traditionally, three of the candles are purple, and one is pink (rose).

A a r g e w h t e c a n d e t h e C h r s t c a n d l e , s t a n d s n t h e m d d l e T h e s h a p e o f t h e w r e a t h a c i r c e w t h n o b e g i n n i n g o r e n d s a n a n c i e n t s y m b o l o f o u r e t e r n a l G o d w h o h a s n o b e g i n n i n g o r e n d

A large white candle, the Christ candle, stands in the middle. The shape of the wreath — a circle with no beginning or end — is an ancient symbol of our eternal God, who has no beginning or end.

The evergreens represent everlasting life. The candles symbolize Jesus, the light of the world. Purple is the colour of penance and pink is the colour of joy.

We follow the customary ritual- we pray a blessing on the wreath the first time we light it.

Blessings can be found in many Catholic prayer books. On the first Sunday in Advent, and every evening of the following week, we light a single purple candle.

The children take turns lighting the candle, though it is an old German custom that anyone with the name "John" or "Joan" can claim the first rights for this job.

The reason? It was Saint John the evangelist who began his Gospel by calling Jesus the "light of the world," and it was Saint John the Baptist who saw the light of Christ’s divinity shining as He came to be baptized in the Jordan River (see John 1:1-36).

The second Sunday and the following week, we light two candles. On the third Sunday we light two purple and the pink candles.

The third Sunday is known as Gaudete Sunday, the Sunday of rejoicing. Beginning on the fourth Sunday, all four candles are lit, and on Christmas Eve, the Christ candle burns as well. We keep the candles lit each evening as we read Scripture and sing a verse of an Advent hymn. Some families at this time read the Scripture lessons for the Mass on that day.

On Christmas Eve, we light additional candles throughout the house and keep them burning all evening until bedtime.

Stir up our hearts, O Lord, to prepare the paths of your Only-begotten Son: that we may worthily serve thee with hearts purified by His coming: Who lives and reignes with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen.

T hird Week

We beseech you to listen to our prayers, O Lord, and by the grace of your coming enlighten our darkened minds: You who live and reign with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen. On the third Sunday in Advent, Gaudete Sunday, the Church can no longer contain her joyful longing for the coming of the Saviour. We light the rose candle and rejoice that our redemption is so close at hand. Gaudete comes from the Latin Antiphon, which begins, "Gaudete in Domino semper: iterum dico, gaudete.." [Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice...]. On this day, rose-colored vestments are worn, and flowers may decorate the chancel of the church.

Fourth Week

Pour forth your power, O Lord, and come: Assist us by that mighty power, so that by your grace and merciful kindness we may swiftly receive the salvation that our sins impede: Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen.

Local Liturgical resource

2 0 0 3 A d v e n t P r o g r a m :

C h r i s t – O u r S u n

Since 2000, the Liturgy and RCIA Office of Western Australia has produced a study and resource guide for Advent. The 2003 Advent program is now available. It may be obtained for $25 each at the office or from Gattos shop, in Tuart Hill.

RCIA Field Officer Sue Larsen said the Brisbane Liturgical Commission has been recommending the locally produced version of the program to other states. She has received enquiries from Tasmania regarding the program and sent it to them.

“The secret of its success is that it is simple, easy to use and not costly.

A parish can buy one copy and photocopy additional copies for parishioners without breaching copyright,” Ms Larsen said. It is designed for Parish Priests, Liturgists and parish groups for setting up the right environment for liturgies and group prayer. The Study Program is designed for small groups of 10 to 12 people, families and individuals who wish to use it for personal reflection.

A message of hope

Abbie Shawa, the head of Catholic Relief Services' HIV/AIDS program in Malawi, Africa, is pictured during an October 27-29 speaking tour in Anchorage, Alaska.Shawa, speaking on the HIV/AIDS epidemic that engulfs his nation, said the "church brings a message of hope - it may be the only institution doing that right now."

Malawi’s AIDS epidemic touches hearts and minds in Alaska

By Effie Caldarola

Like just about everyone in the southern African nation of Malawi, Abbie Shawa knows the face of AIDS from personal experience.

When his brother lay dying from the disease in 1996, Shawa cared for him, bathed him and kept his bedding clean and dry. Today, Shawa’s sister-in-law shows signs of the disease.

Yet the Malawi-born Shawa, who is the director of Catholic Relief Services’ HIV/AIDS program there, came to the United States on a five-week speaking tour to “portray the message of hope.”

“Without hope there is no reason to continue,” Shawa told an audience in Alaska, where he spent three days in late October. In heavily accented English, he said that in the face of the AIDS pandemic sweeping Africa “the

church brings a message of hope — it may be the only institution doing that right now.”

Shawa spoke at St. Mary Parish in Kodiak and in Anchorage at Holy Family Cathedral and Lumen Christi High School. He also addressed a luncheon for CRS donors at the Westmark Hotel in Anchorage.

Malawi, with a population of 11 million, is the 10th-poorest country in the world. More than 80 percent of its citizens subsist on less than the equivalent of one U.S. dollar a day.

Painting a grim statistical picture of the AIDS crisis, Shawa said 845,000 people in Malawi are HIV-positive. Life expectancy has been reduced to 36 years today, compared to 49 years 20 years ago. “If we were in Malawi, you would probably all be dead,” Shawa told the mostly middleaged audience at the Westmark.

There were 250,000 AIDS orphans in Malawi in 2000, and if present death rates continue that number will triple in the next century.

“Many grandparents are taking over,” said Shawa, “but there

“The church in Malawi, especially the Catholic Church, is the most trusted institution,”

has been a fourfold increase in households headed by children.”

Seven thousand teachers die every year from AIDS, and by 2005 estimates are that 50 percent of the professional class in the main social sectors such as health care and education will have succumbed to the disease.

Against this backdrop of despair, Shawa said that CRS, in partnership with the local church, “is continually giving testimony to the human spirit. That’s why the church is there.”

“The church in Malawi, especially the Catholic Church, is the most trusted institution,” Shawa said.

CRS is the official overseas

relief and development agency of the U.S. Catholic Church. Working with the local church in Malawi, the organization supports 6,000 orphans, offers educational support such as tuition, uniforms and supplies to 2,000 others, and provides vocational training for older orphans.

CRS and the local church provide 40 percent of all health services for HIV/AIDS patients, Shawa said. In a nation where AIDS is often met with denial, the church is heavily involved in education. Every priest brings up AIDS and discusses it at Mass, Shawa added.

Grants and loans for small businesses are another facet of the effort in Malawi, and Shawa illustrated the impact those have on people’s lives by telling the story of a widow named Abit Wasi.

He said Wasi, after losing her husband, was pressured to go through the ritual of “wife cleansing,” meaning she would have to sleep with a male relative of her husband. When she refused, she was disowned and disinherited. CRS gave her a grant to begin her

own business so that she could become self-supporting.

CRS and the local church also educate about the risks involved in practices like wife cleansing or sexual initiation of young teens by older men.

“Most women don’t know how to read and write,” Shawa said. Despite the gloomy statistics, he said, Catholics in Malawi take inspiration from the response Blessed Mother Teresa gave when she was asked if she didn’t despair while working in the slums.

“Of course,” Mother Teresa had replied. “To despair is human. But I take inspiration from the smiles we are able to bring.”

Shawa, showing a picture of a smiling child, said he takes hope “from smiles like this” and from the fact that 90 percent of the population of Malawi is HIV-negative.

Christians comprise 80 percent of Malawi’s population, and 40 percent of them are Catholic, the nation’s largest single denomination, according to Shawa.

CNS

Photo:Kelly DuFortCNS

Why the BBC was wrong

The BBC recently screened a program which purported to examine some of the effects of the Church’s teaching in Third World countries. The ABC repeated it without any examination of its errors.

The National Director of the UKSociety for the Protection of Unborn Children, Mr John Smeaton, wrote an open letter to the Director General of the BBC pointing out its many errors.

In the following article, based on an interview with the news agency ZENIT, Smeaton examines some of the scientific, empirical and attitudinal reasons why the BBC was wrong and why the condom mentality is so dangerous to Third World countries.

“The BBC continues to command a great deal of influence and respect around the world, but it remains accountable to virtually no one. When it makes unsubstantiated and misleading allegations of this nature, the results are very damaging for all those who work to protect human life.

“SPUC is not a religious organization, but the Panorama program attacked the Catholic Church’s teachings on abortion and human sexuality that we share. We felt duty-bound as a Society to expose its one-sided and inaccurate coverage of this subject.

“From beginning to end, the program presupposed that the Church’s prohibition of abortion and birth control was the major cause of poverty and suffering in the developing world. This view was never once challenged in the course of the program. In the part of the program that dealt with Nicaragua, cheap pro-abortion tactics were used unashamedly, such as the use of unreferenced figures for maternal death through illegal abortion and the portrayal of pregnant child rape-victims as the norm.

“In the section on Manila, outdated Malthusian arguments were used to present contraception as the magical answer to poverty and homelessness. In the part about Kenya, the program went so far as to suggest that the Church was condemning people to death from AIDS by “peddling rumor and superstition.”

“We are not saying that the issues do not warrant scrutiny. Our major complaint is that the BBC made no attempt to present a balanced, honest and accurate report.

C o n d o m s n o t s a f e

“The major problem with condoms is that they are not safe. This is not even a contentious point. The condom manufactur-

ers themselves point this out.

The issue of viral leakage is certainly open to dispute but, even simply taking into account the danger of a condom’s rupturing or slipping off, the risk of HIV transmission is very real.

“Condom use may reduce the risk of transmission, but to spread the message that condom use prevents AIDS is a dangerous lie. It is no good saying that the risk is “only 15%,” or “only 1 in 10” when we are talking about human lives.

“We have to ask ourselves whether the decision-makers and birth control advocates would be quite so cavalier if we were talking about a terminal condition that was transmitted non-sexually. For example, would health care professionals advise a chain smoker at serious risk of lung cancer to smoke cigarettes with better filters rather than giving up smoking altogether?

“Worse, would they advise him to give his wife and children masks to reduce the amount of smoke they breathed in so that he could smoke freely around the house rather than telling him to act responsibly and not expose them to any risk at all?

We are not saying that the issues do not warrant scrutiny. Our major complaint is that the BBC made no attempt to present a balanced, honest and accurate report.

“The second major problem is that condoms encourage irresponsible behaviour because people believe themselves to be better protected than they actually are. A paper entitled “Condoms and Seat Belts: The Parallels and the Lessons,” which was published in the UK medical journal The Lancet, noted that “a vigorous condom promotion policy could increase rather than decrease unprotected sexual exposure if it has the unintended effect of encouraging a greater overall level of sexual activity.”

“The figures bear this out. Botswana has the highest distribution of condoms, but 39% of the population is infected with AIDS. However, when the archbishop of Nairobi made the same point in a reputable medical journal, he was accused of talking “scientific nonsense.”

S c i e n t i f i c s t u d i e s

There is not a single scientific study I have come across that promotes condoms as 100% effective.

“All reputable scientific studies admit a failure rate caused by a variety of factors. Besides the ones already mentioned, latex is a natural substance that can degrade if stored in unsuitable conditions, if exposed to extremes of temperature or if stored for an

extended length of time.

“Condoms are also used incorrec tly in many cases. Studies often refer to “ideal” or “consistent and proper” use compared with “typical” use, where the failure rate and associated risks are higher.

“To give a couple of examples, the U.S. National Institutes of Health study on condoms that was cited in the Panorama program gives a failure rate of between 1.6% and 3.6%. It also quotes an estimate from National Surveys of Family Growth that 14% of couples experienced an unintended pregnancy during the first year of “typical” condom use.

“With any failure rate connected with pregnancy, one has to bear in mind that a woman can only become pregnant for between five and seven days of her cycle whereas a person can be infected with HIV at any time. Also, while a conception involves the creation of a new life, HIV infection can only ever be a tragedy.

C h a s t i t y a n d F i d e l i t y

“Programs based on abstinence and marital fidelity are always preferable to condom distribution in the fight against AIDS — and it is not just the Church that tells us this. The World Health Organization and the condom companies say so, too.

“Condom companies are not exactly supporters of the “theology of the body,” nor are they guardians of Christian marriage.

However, even the makers of Durex condoms say quite clearly that “for complete protection from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, the only totally effective measure is sexual

abstinence or limiting sexual intercourse to mutually faithful, uninfected partners.”

“The logic of abstinence and marital fidelity programs is beautifully simple and straightforward. If a person sleeps around and uses a condom, they run the risk, however reduced, of contracting HIV; yet no one has ever died as a direct result of virginity.

No one should be condemned to die because of Western resistance to responsible sexual behaviour based on a model of marital fidelity.

“It is the same if a man and a woman are faithful to one another in marriage, having abstained beforehand.

The Church’s teaching on human sexuality is not the idealistic dream that the Panorama program claimed. It is the common-sense system by which billions of people have lived over generations.

U g a n d a

“Uganda is perhaps the biggest success story in the fight against AIDS and much of its achievement is because of changes in sexual behaviour, particularly emphasis on abstinence and fidelity.

“Condoms have been promoted as a last resort, but a report by USAID on Uganda found that condoms were not a major factor in the decrease in HIV transmission. In fact, the decline in transmission rates began before the widespread promotion of condoms.

“Critics of abstinence claim that people are not strong enough to resist, but this is unsubstantiated propaganda.

In one district of Uganda, it was noted that fewer than 5% of 13- to 16-year-olds were sexually active in 2001 compared with 60% in 1994, a significant change in sexual behaviour achieved in just seven years.

“Unlike some of its neighbouring countries, Uganda has had a decline in HIV transmission for well over a decade and 98% of people with no education are aware of AIDS — one of the highest awareness rates in the world.

“To change public attitudes and the conventional wisdom about using condoms to fightAIDS, we need to circulate honest, accurate information.

“The facts speak for themselves.

“Governments and aid agencies need to put aside their anti-family agendas and put their energies into programs that actually make a difference.

“The public needs to be made aware that abstinence and monogamy are positive and beneficial choices for individuals and for society.

“No one should be condemned to die because of Western resistance to responsible sexual behaviour based on a model of marital fidelity.”

Law meeting

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope

John Paul II met privately on November. 21 with Cardinal Bernard F. Law, who resigned as Archbishop of Boston 11 months earlier in the wake of controversy over how he handled allegations of sex abuse made against Boston clergy. The Vatican press office listed the audience with Cardinal Law on the Pope's calendar, but said the meeting was private and no details would be provided. Although retired as Archbishop of Boston, Cardinal Law, 72, continues to serve as a member of nine Vatican congregations and councils and is frequently in Rome.

New parish life

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope

John Paul II told Italian bishops that renewing parish life was important if the country is to resist attacks on the family and the erosion of traditional religious values. The Pope said rapid social and cultural changes "tend to distance from the faith and the church even a people like the Italians, whose Christian roots are so solid and deep." He made the comments in a written message to the bishops, who were meeting in the Italian pilgrimage town of Assisi on November 17-19 to discuss the state of parishes in Italy.

The Pope said the extensive network of parishes and their pastoral and social service to Italians represent a great richness, but that this vitality is being challenged by cultural trends.

He said it was important for Italian parishes to maintain a "family" atmosphere of warmth and welcome. In doing so, the parish can continue to defend and promote the institution of the family, which is "continually threatened today," he said.

International News

Catholic news from around the world

Bridging the gap: Israeli ambassador uses personal touch at Vatican

By John Thavis

During a week that brought Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to Rome, the gulf between Israel and the Vatican appeared to be growing.

Israeli and Jewish leaders already were miffed that on the eve of Sharon's arrival on November. 17, the Pope for the first time publicly criticised Israel's construction of a security barrier to shut out Palestinians.

That prompted Rome's retired chief Rabbi Elio Toaff to remark that the Pope must be getting bad advice. Elie Wiesel, the Jewish Nobel Laureate, said the Pope should focus more on condemning terrorism and less on "political considerations" like the security wall.

In Rome, Sharon said he understood the Pope's view that the Holy Land needs "bridges, not walls." But the Israeli leader added pointedly, "Bridges cannot be built over the corpses of Israeli civilian victims."

Sharon couldn't help noting that the Vatican was surrounded by a tall brick wall.

He continually referred to Italy as Israel's best friend in Europe.

The fact that there was no Vatican meeting during his three-day visit spoke volumes. It looked to some like the Vatican and Israel were busy building their own dividing wall. But in diplomacy there is always more than meets the eye, and the real action is often behind the scenes.

On the third floor of a Jewish cultural centre in the heart of Rome's ancient "ghetto," a few dozen people were treated to a rare glimpse behind the diplomatic curtain on November 16.

The invitation-only event brought members of Rome's Jewish community together with Oded Ben-Hur, who took over six months ago as Israel's ambassador to the Holy See. At ease before a sympathetic audience, the ambassador explained that diplomacy is more than formal briefings and the cocktail

Bridging the gulf

circuit -- sometimes you have to make personal overtures.

After Cardinal Roger Etchegaray recently said Israel was instituting a "geography of apartheid" with its planned 250mile long security barrier, BenHur went calling on the French cardinal and spent nearly two hours explaining Israel's motives. The two men still disagreed on the wall, but they came away with a better understanding of each other's positions, the ambassador said. The cardinal felt that he had to say something after seeing the wall under construction. But the ambassador emphasised to Cardinal Etchegaray an opinion shared by many Israelis -- that hyperbolic phrases like "geography of apartheid" can be a weapon in the hands of those who hate Israel.

On the other hand, the ambassador was cheered a few days later when Cardinal Roberto Tucci criticised a poll that said Europeans view Israel as the No. 1 threat to world peace. In a Vatican Radio commentary, the cardinal gave a rousing defence of Israel and warned of growing anti-Semitism.

That went into the win col-

umn. So did comments by Cardinal Camillo Ruini, the papal vicar of Rome and president of the Italian bishops' conference, who strongly denounced the bombings of two Jewish synagogues in Turkey. He said such terrorist acts of hatred and anti-Semitism require a united international response. Ben-Hur apparently likes to knock on doors. A couple of months ago he went to see Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the Vatican's chief doctrinal official, and they chatted amiably for 25 minutes about the changes in church teaching on the Jews introduced by the landmark Second Vatican Council document, "Nostra Aetate," which called for an end to antiSemitism.

Aware that the doctrinal congregation was working on a "mini" version of the "Catechism of the Catholic Church," BenHur decided to be blunt.

"I asked whether, in some way, it would be possible to insert in a page or two, perhaps in the introduction or preamble, some teaching or some reference to highlight the content of 'Nostra Aetate,'" he said.

The ambassador said Cardinal

Ratzinger looked him in the eye and said: "I'll do it."

It was clear from his talk that Ben-Hur sees little chance for effective dialogue with the Muslim world because, as he put it, moderate Muslims have little if any influence on the extremists.

He said Islamic militants don't know the word "compromise" or the concept of truce, and that as a result anti-Semitism and terrorism are on the rise. There is a clearer understanding of that in the Vatican curia today, he said.

He's also a realist about his role at the Vatican. He knows that in trying to build a "network of Catholic-Israeli friendship," he'll win some and lose some, and that sometimes the best way to win is to know when not to press too hard.

One challenge, he said, is that a lot of people have formed crystallised and perhaps unfair opinions about Israel and are used to expressing them with "exclamation points."

"On some central issues like the role of Israel and the reality of the Middle East, where there are exclamation points, I try to bend them a little into question marks," he said. - CNS

The message of the Eucharist is being missed by some

Church has responsibility to aid migrants, Vatican official says

If going to Mass and receiving Communion does not transform individuals and communities into those who welcome all who are suffering, including migrants, then the full meaning of the Eucharist is being missed, a Mexican bishop said.

Bishop Renato Ascencio Leon of Ciudad Juarez told the World Congress for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Refugees that thousands of people pass through his border diocese each year "headed for the

American dream." Dozens of them die in the attempt, he said.

The bishop, who is president of the Mexican bishops' commission for human mobility, did not single out any specific cases of deaths along the border.

But, he said, "almost every day the international media show us the saddest and most deplorable scenes imaginable: groups of emigrants who die trying to reach a country in search of a way to support themselves and their families" or trying to flee violence in their homelands.

"Thousands and thousands of people make up this population that lives in no man's land, with no hope, no solution to

their situation in sight, no rights and, sometimes, no help," he said.

Bishop Ascencio said the Catholic Church and its members have a responsibility to find a way "to overcome the selfishness and indifference" of society and help the migrants. The church, he said, does not have to invent anything new; the solution lies in the Eucharist and learning to live its lessons once Mass has ended.

The Eucharist is an unequaled school of love for one's neighbour because it speaks to us of the love, respect and esteem which God has for every man and every woman, a love which goes so far as to become nourishment," he said. Sharing the Eucharist in

peace and fraternal communion, he said, "is a gesture which creates bonds that are so deep that they must and they do form the deepest unity among believers."

The Eucharist "increases charity and inflames the hope of believers to the point that they become witnesses of the invincible love of God which is manifest in the paschal mystery of Christ," the bishop said. "Participation in the Eucharist would not be real -- something vital would be missing -- if it did not culminate in loving commitment to one's neighbours, especially to the poorest and most vulnerable," he said, “they share the Eucharist’s pains and hopes."

Cardinal Roger Etchegaray leans against his crozier during celebration of Mass at St. Catherine's Church in Bethlehem.

Photo:CNS/Reuters

International News

Catholic news from around the world

Pharmacist wins right to life

Pharmacist wins right to refuse to fill objectionable prescriptions

By Mike Mastromatteo

ACanadian pharmacist who refused to fill a prescription for birth control pills reached an agreement with regulatory officials allowing her to avoid dealing in products she finds morally objectionable.

The agreement brings an end to a fouryear costly legal battle for Maria Bizecki, a pharmacist with the Co-op chain of stores in Calgary, Alberta.

In 1999, Bizecki advised a customer that her faith-based opposition to contraceptive products prevented her from filling a prescription for birth control pills.

Bizecki said she believes that as long as a customer has the choice of finding another pharmacist who can fill prescriptions for contraceptive products Catholic and other pro-life pharmacists should not be forced to participate in such transactions.

Abortion supporters in the Calgary area mounted an Internet campaign to have Bizecki called before the provincial regulatory body. She was subsequently suspended with pay for more than a year by the Co-op store and was subjected to a review by the Edmonton-based Alberta College of Pharmacists.

Greg Eberhart, registrar with the pharmacists' college, said the college, Bizecki and her employer reached an agreement that is satisfactory to all parties.

Gerald Chipeur, Bizecki's attorney, said the agreement allows Bizecki to permit a colleague to fill prescriptions for products she finds morally objectionable.

"The accommodation acknowledges that at times patients will request services or

products that would require the pharmacist to participate in an activity that the pharmacist finds morally incompatible with the pharmacist's religious beliefs," Chipeur said.

"The employer in this case agreed that, in such circumstances, the pharmacist would be allowed to step back, and a colleague would provide the services or product in issue," he said.

Chipeur said that the agreement could

Bishop spotted

Chinese bishop missing since 1997 spotted in hospital

An underground Chinese bishop who has not been heard from or seen since his arrest in 1997 has reportedly undergone medical treatment in a hospital.

In a November 19 statement, the U.S.-based Cardinal Kung Foundation said it received information that on or around November 15, Bishop Su Zhimin of Baoding was taken to the officers' ward of Baoding Central Hospital for an eye operation and for heart problems, reported UCA News, an Asian church news agency based in Thailand.

According to the report, the bishop was heavily guarded by about 20 plainclothes officers, including Jia Ruiqi, who holds a high rank in the Boading public security bureau. The bishop's name was not entered in the hospital's records.

Bishop Pan Deshi of Baoding and a priest in Baoding city, both of whom are affiliated with the governmentrecognised church, told UCA News on November 20 that they had not heard any news about Bishop Su. They also said they had no idea about his present situation.

Since Bishop Su's October 1997 arrest, inquiries about his whereabouts to the Chinese government from various governmental and nongovernmental organisations have never been answered satisfactorily, said the statement from the Cardinal Kung Foundation, which supports the underground Catholic community in mainland China.

Bishop Su, now 71, is a prominent leader of the underground Catholic community in China and probably the only underground bishop who has met a U.S. congressman, it said. The bishop met privately with U.S. Rep. Christopher H. Smith, of New Jersey, in January 1994 during Smith's official visit to China. Immediately after Smith's departure from China, Bishop Su was arrested and detained for nine days, the statement said.

Bishop Su has been arrested at least five times and has spent about 27 years in prison, the foundation said.

According to the statement, the bishop was once beaten so severely in prison that he suffered extensive hearing loss. He escaped police detention in April 1996 and remained in hiding until October 1997. Bishop Su's auxiliary, Bishop An Shuxin, was arrested in May 1996 and his whereabouts remain unknown, UCA News reported.

set a precedent for other Canadian pharmacists who feel uncomfortable dealing with medicines they believe to be incompatible with their religious beliefs.

"The accommodation that has been developed allows the public to exercise choice with respect to health care services, without requiring Ms Bizecki to give up her choice to follow the Bible and the commandments of God," Chipeur said.

Michael Izzotti, coordinator of

Pharmacists for Life Canada, told Catholic News Service that Bizecki and her employer found a simple but practical way of dealing with the situation.

"She (Bizecki) now works in a store where prescriptions are taken in by a technician and put in a basket," Izzotti said. "She takes only nonobjectionable prescriptions to fill from the basket."

Bizecki said she believes her case is a victory for pro-life pharmacists.

"I believe a significant precedent has been set because my case proved that, if we have the political will, it is possible to accommodate the interests of both parties (customer and pharmacist) without suppressing the freedom of conscience of others," she said.

"The Alberta College of Pharmacists and the Calgary Co-op have both acknowledged that conscientious objectors are worthy of respect and accommodation in the workplace, which is a huge victory," she said.

Bizecki, a member of the Pharmacists for Life International, has long lobbied for the development of a conscience clause that would allow Catholic and pro-life pharmacists to avoid dealing with products at odds with church teaching.

Despite the agreement, Bizecki remains concerned that pro-life pharmacists in Canada are still required to provide referrals to customers seeking contraceptives or abortifacients.

"Medical professionals should not be forced to participate in referrals if it violates their conscience," she said.

"The patient is always free to access another health care provider of their choice. At the moment, the Alberta College of Pharmacists believes, like other Canadian pharmacy associations, that a pharmacist may refuse to participate, but requires them to refer," she said. - CNS

Torch of leadership passed to new archbishop in Manila

The torch of leadership was passed to a new Archbishop in Manila after nearly 30 years under the direction of Cardinal Jaime Sin. Cardinal Sin presented Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales, 71, with the gift of a staff in a three-hour installation Mass on November 21. The Mass was concelebrated by the Philippines' two cardinals and the Vatican nuncio to the Philippines, reported UCA News, an Asian church news agency based in Thailand. The outgoing cardinal also led Archbishop Rosales to the cathedra symbolising the seat of leadership Cardinal Sin occupied for more than 29 years.

Cardinal Sin retired as Archbishop of Manila on August 31 after turning 75. The Cardinal suffered a minor stroke in March and undergoes daily dialysis treatment for a kidney ailment. Some 2,500 people attended the November 21 festivities at the Manila cathedral; guests included church and government dignitaries, diplomats

and media celebrities. In the message Cardinal Sin delivered at the start of Mass, he told Archbishop Rosales that, while he knows his successor is capable of doing his new job, he hopes to be allowed to help.

"With the clarity of vision and piety of heart that I have always known you with, I know you can ably undertake this mandate from the Holy See. Please give me a chance to help you in every way," Cardinal Sin said. He added his wish "to be remembered as a cardinal whose clergy is the best in the world."

Earlier, Archbishop Rosales had said he was apprehensive about his new assignment.

Cardinal Ricardo Vidal of Cebu said during the installation Mass homily that Archbishop Rosales' initial "reluctance" to accept his new appointment was understandable. "It is not easy to transfer to another place," Cardinal Vidal said, but he added that Manila is not like "any other place in the Philippines."

The challenges in the capital are "infinitely more complex"

than in the two dioceses that Archbishop Rosales previously headed, the Cardinal said.

Archbishop Rosales headed Malaybalay Diocese in the southern Philippines and Lipa Archdiocese in the North before becoming the 31st Archbishop of Manila.

"Manila's ground is always soft and shaky. It sits on the epicentre of all political and social upheavals," Cardinal Vidal said, describing Cardinal Sin's "legacy in Manila" as a "tough act to follow." In leading the welcome for Archbishop Rosales, Cardinal Vidal asked the people to "make room for individual differences."

He said the new Archbishop of Manila has "his own way of thinking, with his own set of experiences, his beliefs and convictions."

Archbishop Rosales, speaking at the end of Mass, "begged" for people to pray to God to give him "further physical health," "constant clarity of vision" and "purification" of his personal values”. He said he hoped people will "be united in love."

Mifepristone, the abortion pill also known as RU-486, is being marketed and distributed in the United States by Danco Laboratories under the trademark name Mifeprex Photo:CNS/Reuters

Reviews

READING

STALKING THE DIVINE: CONTEMPLATING FAITH WITH THE POOR CLARES,

by Kristin Ohlson. Hyperion Press (New York, 2003). 256 pp.,

Reviewed by Michael Dubruiel CNS

New book on Poor Clares is a spiritual classic

S

talking the Divine:Contemplating Faith With the Poor Clares is a modern-day Seven Storey Mountain My job requires me to read a lot of books, and this is simply the best one that I have read in the past 20 years.

Not since St Clare turned back the invading armies of Frederick II in 1234, by raising a ciborium containing the Blessed Sacrament, have her descendants been considered a military threat. But recently, two Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in Cleveland found themselves in conflict with the US Department of Homeland Security.

The two cloistered nuns, South Korean biological sisters, faced deportation. A ruling will permit them to stay as temporary business workers. Their story had made national headlines in the US thanks in part to the author of this book about their community.

Author Kristin Ohlson found her secure world shaken when she stumbled upon the Poor

MOVIE

AClares community a few years ago. Fascinated, she asked to enter the walls in order to write about their lives.

The sisters resisted this, but did allow her to interview them, with the grill that separates them from the outside world between them. What unfolds in “Stalking the Divine” is an exposition of the spiritual life, not only of the sisters but of Ohlson and of whoever reads this fascinating book.

There is a touching moment in one of Ohlson’s encounters with the Poor Clares that especially moved me. I realised, and I think most readers will also see, that the words spoken to the author are a testament of why Poor Clares pray night and day for the world.

An elderly sister that Ohlson had just finished interviewing took Ohlson’s hand, kissed it, and said, “I love you.” Ohlson writes, “Usually, the people who say that get an automatic ‘I love you’ back, but it didn’t seem right: She was loving me as a fellow creature made in the image of God, and my love is confined to a much tinier slice of humanity.”

Therein lies the charm of this book, which could easily become the spiritual classic of our time. Ohlson’s almost happenstance encounter with this cloistered community suddenly transforms her life. And her life is at the centre of Stalking the Divine.

I say her life, but it would be more accurate to say that it is our life that she brings to her weekly interviews. Her questions are the questions of the modern world confronted with the seeming absurdity of those who leave it behind, forsaking all to give themselves fully to God.

n orphan raised by Santa’s tiny toymakers journeys to New York City in search of his real father in the goofy yuletide comedy “Elf” (New Line).

Despite narrative holes more glaring than Rudolph’s shiny nose, director Jon Favreau, trying to jump-start the holiday way too early, crafts a family-friendly fable, but uses the secularising sieve of jingle bells and mistletoe to filter out any explicit religious references about the true meaning of Christmas.

“Saturday Night Live” alum Will Ferrell plays Buddy, a foundling who, as an infant, crawls into Santa’s sack of toys during a stopover at an orphanage and accidentally winds up being taken back to the North Pole. The stowaway is adopted by the workshop’s pointy-eared foreman, Papa Elf (played with droll sobriety by Bob Newhart), who raises Buddy as one of the Keebler kin.

Though popular among the pint-sized population of Christmas Village — especially his teammates on the Billy-Bartyish

Ohlson, a self-described former Maoist and lapsed Catholic, is moved by the witness of the nuns. I think anyone who reads her moving narrative will share in this admiration.

“ M y j o b r e q u i r e s m e t o r e a d a l o t o f b o o k s , a n d t h i s i s s i m p l y t h e b e s t o n e t h a t I h a v e r e a d i n t h e p a s t 2 0 y e a r s ”

She writes, “I guess I’m tired of a world with so little faith. I’m tired of marriages that fall apart because people won’t persevere through the dry, dull, miserable periods; I’m tired of people who have given up on making the world better; I’m tired of people who cynically deconstruct everything for their own amusement — and I’ve been all these people.

These nuns fell in love with God, married him after a long, careful courtship, and have stuck with him year after year.”

Ohlson’s account reads like a pilgrimage of discovery both of the lives and vocations of the sisters but also her own call from God as she struggles to encounter God in prayer and belief.

Perhaps Poor Clares, who give up everything and follow Christ in a radical way, do present a “security risk,” not to the US but to those of us who have grown complacent in our faith.

Dubruiel holds a master’s in Christian spirituality from Creighton University and is the author of “The How-To Book of the Mass” and “Praying the Holy Rosary with the Joyful, Luminous, Sorrowful and Glorious Mysteries.”

basketball squad — Buddy, who grows into Ferrell’s uber-elf frame, realises he will never quite fit into their Lilliputian world. After Papa Elf tells him the truth about his past, Buddy decides to travel to New York and search out his biological father.

His voyage of elf-discovery leads him to Walter (James Caan), a workaholic publisher of children’s books who perennially makes Santa’s “naughty” list. Ignorant of having fathered a child in his youth, Walter, now married (to Mary Steenburgen) with a 10-year-old son (Daniel Tay), dismisses Buddy’s story, convinced there is more nut than nutcracker to the oversized elf.

As much an outcast in the big city as in the North Pole, Buddy lands an appropriate job in the toy department of Gimbel’s — standing in for Macy’s — but is fired when he gets into a riotous brawl with the store’s Santa after alerting a line of anxious children that the counterfeit Claus is an impostor.

After bailing Buddy out of jail and confirming his paternity via a DNA test, Walter reluctantly agrees to let his sugarplum scion move in. Buddy’s boundless energy — fuelled by an all-sugar diet which designates candy an essential food group — turns the household upside down, which ultimately proves right side up. With Dec. 25 rapidly approaching,

“I guess I’m tired of a world with so little faith. I’m tired of marriages that fall apart because people won’t persevere through the dry, dull, miserable periods; I’m tired of people who have given up on making the world better; I’m tired of people who cynically deconstruct everything for their own amusement — and I’ve been all these people. These nuns fell in love with God, married him after a long, careful courtship, and have stuck with him year after year.”

- K r i s t i n O h l s o n , i n S talking the Divine: Contemplating Faith With the Poor Clares

Buddy takes it upon himself to help his father find his inner-elf by injecting some holiday cheer into Walter’s cynical heart — and possibly saving Christmas in the process.

Favreau sets the film’s nostalgic tone early with a retro opening credit sequence, cleverly paying homage to classic Rankin-Bass Christmas TV specials like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” which also dealt in a lighthearted manner with similar themes of alienated misfits.

Ferrell is convincing as the socially inept man-child, bringing both a disarming credulousness and an unfettered wackiness to the role.

Though well cast as the mirthless malcontent, Caan is not given much to work with. Unlike Scrooge’s metamorphosis which unfolds slowly during his three ghostly visitations, Walter’s turnaround from Grinchy to gracious seems sudden and contrived. Unlike Dickens’ misanthropic miser, Walter comes across as a family man whose priorities are miscast and whose cynicism is fuelled more by overwork than any inherent animus against his fellow man.

Supporting roles include Zooey Deschanel as the co-worker who wins Buddy’s heart, and Ed Asner as the man in the red suit. Apart from a scene where Buddy innocently gets drunk with a mail-

room clerk and a few tame sight gags, the candy-cane humour is less “naughty” than “nice.” Most of the film’s ho-ho-hos are generated by watching the gangly Ferrell prancing around Manhattan in yellow tights.

Regrettably, while “Elf” is full of Christmas spirit, spirituality is noticeably absent. Searching for a Nativity or another even remotely religious symbol in the film’s winter wonderland is like trying to find a wrapped gift in Whoville after the Grinch came to town.

Further evidence of this avoidance of overtly Christian references includes the film’s well-intentioned climax.

Echoing “The Cricket in Times Square,” in which an insect silences a cacophony of consumerism by playing “Silent Night” on his wings, the movie ends on an uplifting — literally — note when Santa’s sleigh is powered by a crowd of cynics-turnedcarollers.

Yet unlike the cricket’s sacred symphony, “Elf’s” Christmas magic is worked by a rousing, albeit secular, chorus of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.”

On that count, though warmhearted and brimming with holiday cheer, this film could do with some elf-improvement.

Due to minimal mildly crude language and humour, the USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-II — adults and adolescents.

BUILDING TRADES

BRICK re-pointing.Phone Nigel 9242 2952

ELECTRICIAN, Power/light points from $50 each.

Rewiring our speciality. 0418 941 286, 9279 5008.

LIC.PLUMBER/gas fitter, Contact John on 9457 7771, Mobile 0412 185 209.

PICASSO Painting.Top service.Phone 9345 0557, fax 9345 0505.

PERROTT PAINTING Pty

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

RELIGIOUS PRODUCTS

Bibles, Books, CD’s, Cards, gifts, Statues, Baptism & Communion Apparel, Albs, Vestments and much more.

RICH HARVEST,39 Hulme Court,Myaree,9329 9889 after 10.30am.

DEATH NOTICE

STEWART John J.P. & ex R.A.N.

Passed away 15-11-03 at home surrounded by his family.Dearly loved husband of Norah & loving father of Stephen, Francine, Christopher, Julienne, Creena & James. Father in law of Susan, Kevin, Colin & David and adored pop of James, Kirra, Cameron, Jesse, Thomas, Lewis, Rhiannon, Nicholas, Aidan, Greta & Camille.Son in law of Annie & Edward Quirk (both dec).Brother in law of Mary (dec) and Colin Brown, Peg & Jim Kendle (both dec) and Rhonnie and Alan Penaluna (both dec).At Rest.

FURNITURE REMOVAL

ALL areas.Mike Murphy 0416 226 434.

VISITING SYDNEY

Why not stay at

STORMANSTON HOUSE

27 McLaren Street,North Sydney

Restful & secure accommodation operated by the Sisters of Mercy, North Sydney.

• Situated in the heart of North Sydney and short distance to the city

• Rooms available with ensuite facility

• Continental breakfast, tea/coffee making facilities & television

• Separate lounge/dining room, kitchen & laundry

• Private off-street parking

Contact:Phone:0418 650 661 or email:nsstorm@tpg.com.au

GOLF SETS

SPECIALIST Club builders.Trade-ins.Tuition, specialist instructor Mike Forrester.Gift vouchers. 9274 4452

TO LET

ALBANY 2B/R unit.No common walls, suit older person.Long lease available.Pivate garden, lawns mowed, small pet OK $135pw 08 98411458 or 0418611779

VESTMENTS

KINLAR Vestments, albs, copes, stoles, frontals, chasubles, coffin palls.altar cloths, graduation gowns. Ph:9378 4752

A Golden Anniversary

The family of Mr and Mrs Peter Fredericks are happy to announce their parents’Golden Wedding Anniversary.Peter and Nomai were married at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Bunbury by the late Rev. Fr Mullins on October 24th, 1953.The celebration was a family affair attended by their sons Colin, Kim and John (son Paul is deceased).The Fredericks have 11 grandchildren aged six to nine.Colin said of his parents “They are probably the finest examples of a role model you would get today.They are very caring people.”

panorama a

roundup of events in the archdiocese

- Archbishop Hickey

9 End-of-Year Mass for Pregnancy Assistance, LeedervilleArchbishop Hickey

Heads of Churches meeting - Bishop Sproxton Blessing of Irene McCormack Villa - Bishop Sproxton

11Council of Priests meeting, Glendalough - Archbishop Hickey, Bishop Sproxton

Birthday Celebration in honour of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan - Fr Brian O'Loughlin VG

12Mass for Mercedes College Staff - Archbishop Hickey

Sunday November 30

ETERNAL WORD TELEVISION NETWORK:

1 - 2pm on Access 31.Effect of video games on children.Dr David Walsh & Prof Eugene Provenzo with Johnette Benkovic [Abundant Life series].Too important to miss;please tell a friend to tell a friend! The following week (December 7) a program of the renowned Archbishop Fulton Sheen,from his award winning series,Life is Worth Living.This is to be followed by a presentation about the Miraculous Medal by Bob & Penny Lord,in their series,Many Faces of Mary.Many thanks to those who have contributed to the cost of putting these inspiring programs to air.We still need ongoing help if they are to continue.Please send donations and comments to The Rosary Christian Tutorial Association,PO Box 1270,Booragoon 6954. EWTN videos are available in free video lending libraries.Enquiries :9330-1170

Sunday November 30 GATE OF HEAVEN

Please join us this Sunday at 7:30pm on 107.9 FM, Radio Fremantle,for more Global Catholic Radio. Pardon our mistake.The following announcement, which also appeared last week,was actually intended for this week’s GOH program.

Tuesday December 2 MARANATHA INSTITUTE MASS AND GRADUATION CEREMONY

All present and past students of Maranatha are invited to attend the end of year Mass and Graduation Ceremony which will be held at 7pm in the Chapel of St Michael the Archangel,Catholic Education Centre,50 Ruislip Street,Leederville.Mass will be celebrated by Father Vincent Glynn and followed by a light supper.

Wednesday December 3 PENITENTIAL SERVICE (2ND RITE)

Will be held at Infant Jesus Parish,47 Wellington Rd, Morley,at 7.30pm.Enq phone 9276 8500.

Wednesday December 3 – Friday December 5 COME AS YOU ARE - ADVENT TRIDUUM!

An Advent Triduum will be held at St Kieran’s Church, Osborne Park,Corner of Cape and Waterloo Street, Tuart Hill at 7.00pm.The Mass will be preceded by the Holy Rosary.The program will include:Healing Service and Anointing of the Sick during the Mass, Wednesday;Reconciliation during the Rosary and after the Mass Thursday;and Supper after Mass Friday. All welcome!

Friday December 5 FAREWELL TO PRINCIPAL – SACRED HEART SCHOOL MUNDARING

Mrs Phyllis Driscoll is soon to finish her 12 year term as principal.A farewell supper is to be held at 6pm at Sacred Heart.All ex students,parents,staff and other past associates of the school are warmly invited to attend.Enq Andy 9295 1370.

TWILIGHT RETREAT

Christian Meditation Community (WA) Inc.‘Out of the Desert’.St Cecilia’s Parish Centre,47 Peebles Road, Floreat.6-7pm soup and bread.7-9pm evening directed by Stephanie Woods.All Welcome.$5 at the door. Enq:Vesta 9444 5810 or Marian 9387 4716.

PRO-LIFE PROCESSION- MIDLAND

The First Friday Mass,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 December 5 –- Saturday December 6

REIGN OF THE TWO HEARTS

All night Vigil & Eucharistic Adoration.All Saints Chapel,Allendale Square.First Friday Devotions to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and First Saturday Devotions to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.Commencing at 9pm with Holy Mass.Concluding with Mass at 7am.Enq: 9444 1940 or 9385 8563.

ALLIANCE AND TRIUMPH OF THE TWO HEARTS

An all nigh vigil of devotions and reparation to the Hearts of Jesus and Mary at St Bernadette’s Church, Jugan St,Glendalough.Commencing at 9pm with Holy Mass.Concluding with Parish Mass at 7.30am.Light refreshments available during the night.Enq 9342 5845.

Friday December 5 – Sunday December 7

THE SECULAR FRANCISCAN ORDER

Will be holding their Annual Retreat commencing 7pm at The Redemptorist Monastery,Vincent Street,North Perth.Enq.Mary 9377 7925 or Michael 9444 0352.All welcome.

Saturday December 6

DAY WITH MARY

St Gerard Majella.Cnr Ravenswood Drive & Majella Road,Westminster (Mirrabooka).9am – 5pm.A video on Fatima will be shown at 9am.A day of prayer and instruction based on the messages of Fatima.Includes Sacrament of Penance,Holy Mass,Eucharistic Adoration,talks,rosaries,procession and Station of the Cross.Please BYO.Enq.Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate 9574 5204.

WITNESS FOR LIFE PROCESSION

The next First Saturday Mass,procession and rosary vigil will commence 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 December 7

BULLSBROOK SHRINE- Feast of Immaculate Conception

SACRI:Fervent Soldiers Of Christ The Immortal King warmly invite you to celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception at the Pilgrim Shrine,Virgin of the Revelation,36 Chittering Rd,Bullsbrook.The Rosary of the Immaculate Conception will be recited in the Shrine at 2.00pm,Marian procession to the Church for Mass at 2.30pm and Consecration to the Sacred heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Enquiries:Tel.SACRI 9447 3292

Monday December 8

DAY OF PRAYER

Holy Family House of Prayer.23 Keppell Mews, Rockingham.The Feast of the Immaculate Conception 9amto 5pm.Phone Patty Powell on 9527 9165

Thursday December 11

HEALING MASS

In honour of St Peregrine,patron of Cancer sufferers and helper of all in need,will be held at the Church of SS John and Paul,Pinetree Gully Rd,(off South St) Willetton at 7pm.There will be Veneration of the Relic and Anointing of the sick.Enq.Noreen Monaghan 9498 7727

Friday December 19

ST SIMON PETER PARISH

Prendiville Avenue,Ocean Reef,will commemorate their 10th Anniversary Jubilee.Mass will be held at 7pm followed by a celebration in the parish centre.For more information call 9300 8247.

Sunday March 7

50TH ANNIVERSARY

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Primary School, Hilton will celebrate its 50th Anniversary.All are invited to celebrate this historical occasion.Past families, students,staff and volunteers are welcome to send in their memorablilia,photographs or memories of events over the years.Please contact the school by phone 9337 7066,fax 9314 6005 or email admin@olmchilt.wa.edu.au

ALL SAINTS CHAPEL

Centre of Spirituality and peace in the heart of Perth. 77 Allendale Square,St Georges Terrace,Perth.Fr Jim Shelton,Chaplain 9325 2009.Morning Prayer 8am (Liturgical Hours),Confessions 10.30am to 11.45am, Masses 12.10pm and 1.10pm,The Holy Rosary daily 12.40pm.Divine Mercy Prayers and Benediction Mondays and Fridays 1.35pm,St Pio of Pietrelcina Novena to the Sacred Heart and Benediction, Wednesdays 1.35pm.Chapel closed weekends and public holidays.

PERPETUAL ADORATION

Christ The King Church,Lefroy Rd,Beaconsfield commenced perpetual adoration of The Blessed Sacrament on October 1 this year.24 hours per day The Blessed Eucharist is present for joyful prayer.We need help to fill some late evening,early morning hours or anytime day or night.If you can help please phone Joe 9319 1169(h) 9430 7937 (w) or 0419 493 100 (mob).You are invited to attend anytime on a permanent or casual basis.

CROSS ROADS COMMUNITY

Healing Masses:at E.Frem.& Spearwood will resume May 2004-Nov 2004.Term ends 19th December for: Family & Friends Support Groups on Wednesdays 7pm - 9pm,Substance Abusers Support Groups on Tuesdays 5.30pm - 7.30pm & Fridays 2pm - 3.30pm & All day Group for Substance Abusers on Fridays 10.30am - 3.30pm.Spirituality:Tuesdays 7pm - 9pm & Healing Mass:Fridays 12noon.

DJ’s -

Prayer points the way to life

By Debbie Warrier

As high school students face their final exams, their anxiety rises. Here are two angles on how to cope with it.

The Record spoke to 23-year- old Megan Belcher who is living the life she never thought she’d have when she was in high school and Year 11 student Anouska Firth who is facing the future with the security of faith.

Youth Coordinator Megan is employed by the Disciples of Jesus to run the youth group 24:7.

There are two groups. Megan is based at the group run in the parish centre of St Mary’s Church, in Leederville on Wednesdays from 4pm to 6pm.

She is also involved with a new group near Liwara Primary School, in Greenwood, on Fridays from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Both groups run during the school term, not holidays

The Leederville group is close to Aranmore College, which allows the lead-

ers to build up close relationships with the students, although all are welcome. Campus Chaplain Mr Chris Brennan supports Megan in her work. 24:7 provides an opportunity to socialize with young people from Year 8 to 12. It started in February this year.

As a Year 12 student in Canberra, Megan never pictured herself relocating to Perth to work with youth. These days she still finds it a little hard to believe.

“So many times I’ve shaken myself and said I am so meant for this job,” she said.

Megan’s a strong believer in the secret of success being to do what you’re good at. She teaches students to utilize their gifts.

“If I put God first, then whatever happens is His will and I just have to do my part,”

“God’s not going to give you gifts that you can’t use. He’s working with you, giving you gifts you desire to use.”

She poses this question to young people trying to decide their next step for the

future: “What are you passionate about?”

When someone asked Megan that question when she was 18, Megan’s immediate response was “I don’t know.”

Admitting she was initially thrown by the question, she came to see it as a tool for evaluating her priorities in life.

She believes being able to identify your talents can help you set the course for the future.

Megan also recommends that your ambition should include others.

“Ask yourself ‘How does my goal serve the people around me?’” she said.

Megan also recommends praying for guidance. In her view, there is nothing to lose by trying.

“If you believe God has a plan for you, you have to communicate with Him to find out what that is.

“If you don’t think He’s real, throw the question out there anyway and see what happens!” she said.

Anouska Firth also attends 24:7. She admits to feeling nervous about her future.

“If I don’t do well in Year 11 exams, I won’t get into Year 12. If I don’t get into

Year 12, I won’t get into Uni,” she said.

Despite some butterflies, Anouska has found a way to beat her nerves.

“My faith makes a difference. If you feel nervous, you can just give it to God,” she said.

Anouska said this gave her a sense of security about what the future holds for her.

“If I put God first, then whatever happens is His will and I just have to do my part,” she added.

Anouska spent the first year of her life in Sydney and grew up in the Disciples of Jesus Community. She recalls rebelling against her faith with her friends, and then reclaiming it as her own when she got older. She attends Kingsway Christian College, in Kingsway.

Both Megan and Anouska said that 24:7 was not just a youth group. Faith issues are discussed, but you don’t have to be Catholic to join. Anouska described it as a place where you can relax and be yourself.

Enquiries, contact Megan on 9445 9811 or email: 24-7@disciplesofjesus.org

Anouska Firth and Megan Belcher at Aranmore College