The Record Newspaper 20 December 1995 by The Record

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Pope urges peace for world's children VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Pope John Paul has exhorted nations and individuals to remember that children have a right to grow up surrounded by peace and love, free of abuse and exploitation in his message for the World Day of Peace on January 1. "Children are not a burden on society; they are not a means of profit or people without rights. Children are precious members of the human family, for they embody its hopes, its expectations and its potential," the Pope said in the message, which was released on December 12 at the Vatican. The theme for the 1996 celebration is: "Let us give children a future of peace." The papal message was released a day after the UN Children's Fund published its annual report on the state of the world's children, providing statistics on the "inhuman sufferings" the Pope condemned. As a result of wars and conflicts over the last 10 years, the UNICEF report said, two million children were killed, between four million and five million were left disabled, one million were left orphaned or could not find their parents, and an estimated 10 million have suffered psychologically. "The deliberate killing of a child is one of the most disturbing signs of the breakdown of all respect for human life," the Pope said. With the peace message, Pope John Paul "wants to embrace all children who suffer and all healthy and happy children and say to all grown-ups: 'Let us give children a future of peace. They are only children," Cardinal Roger Etchegaray,

president of the Pontifical Council for justice and Peace, said. He said there had been a "horrendous escalation" of the impact of war on civilians, especially children, since the turn of the century In World War I, he said, an estimated 10 per cent of the victims were civilians. The proportion rose to 50 per cent in World War II; 80 per cent of the victims of the Vietnam War and 90 per cent of the victims of the Lebanese conflict were civilians, "many of them women and children." "Children's faces should always be happy and trusting, but at times they are full of sadness and fear: how much have these children already seen and suffered in the course of their short lives!" Pope John Paul said. In addition to condemning war, exploitation of child workers, forced prostitution, rape and the recruitment of child soldiers, the Pope condemned abuse of children in the home, the breakup of families and the "dismal loneliness" of children left by themselves for hours each day as both parents work Children imitate the behaviour of the adults around them, the Pope said. "They rapidly learn love and respect for others, but they also quickly absorb the poison of violence and hatred," he said. Even if they do not grow up under the shadow of war and civil conflict, many children's main contact with the world is through television programs filled with violence or immorality, the Pope said. Pope John Paul praised school programs that teach children to resolve their own conflicts and asked educators to include in their lessons stories of successful peacemakers and peacemaking, rather than focusing simply on wars and victories in battle.

Front Cover

By Cindy Wooden

Alexander Schramm 1814-1864, Madonna and Child, 1851, oil on canvas, Mary Overton's gift fund 1991 to the Art Gallery of South Australia. With permission.

. . . . and on earth, peace among all of goodwill.

Waiting, waiting. . . . for the great day of Christmas

Waiting surely for Christmas Day, St Michael's pre-primary children in Bassendean last week were also waiting for their 'stage call!' in their Nativity play. Incorporated into their school assembly, the whole line up of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, as well as stable animals, visiting angels, shepherds and Wise Men, all made their great contribution to enacting the true story and meaning of Christmas with the birth of Christ

. . . as the children come to him By John Thavis

The Pope emphasised that Jesus's coming as a baby at Christmas had special meaning to many young people. This year he was dedicating his 1996 World Peace

Pope John Paul II reinforced his message on children last Sunday by blessing figurines of the baby Jesus held aloft by hundreds of children as he spoke from his apartment window above St. Peter's Square. The statuettes were to be used in Christmas nativity scenes. "Iinvite you to pray before the creche so that Christmas may bring a ray of peace to the children of the whole world," the Pope told the youngsters. He asked their prayers so that "adults may learn to govern society taking into account the educational needs of the smallest ones."

pontiff was met by a group of children who gave him a creche figure of Jesus. "We're sure you have several already," they said, "but this will help you remember us." The Pope asked them to remember the less fortunate young people this year, especially those in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Rwanda, who cannot celebrate Christmas in joy.

Bush Christmas

A youth Noel

The Bishops

Sister Clare O'Hearn writes of the birth of a child in a modern Christmas story told by Aboriginal woman Mary O'Reeri in the Kimberley - Page 8

Seven of Western Australia's young Catholic best share their Joy at the first coming of our Saviour Jesus Christ nearly 2,000 years ago - Pages 10-11

Archbishop Barry Hickey and Bishops Robert Healy, Peter Quinn, John jobst and Justin Bianchini wish their flocks a - Pages 44 Holy Christmas

Day message to children as victims of war and protagonists of peace. Visiting a Rome parish the same day, the

Fr Dino Torresan to leave Perth for Sydney By Peter Rosengren Well-known Perth archdiocesan vicar for migration, Father Dino Torresan CS, will be leaving Perth next month to work in the migration field for the Archdiocese of Sydney. Fr Dino, a Scalabrinian priest and long-serving coordinator of the archdiocese's Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Office was present last week for the launch of a book on migration to Australia, edited by himself, at a function in the Cathedral parish centre last week. The Scalabrinian Fathers are a missionary religious Order whose specific task is the assistance of migrants of any nationality, colour or creed. Launching Asia Knocks,

Archbishop Barry Hickey said that despite the Church in Australia disagreeing with important aspects of the Federal Government's refugee policy - particularly in matters involving Chinese and Indo Chinese refugees - there was still a good working relationship between the two and a willingness to listen to the other's point of view. He thanked Fr Dino for his work with refugees and migrants on behalf of the archdiocese for his enormous contribution and creativity in the migration apostolate. Fr Dino came to Australia in 1968 and worked as an assistant priest in Red Cliffs, Victoria and then in Melbourne. He was assigned as parish priest to

Fr Dino Trresan, right, hands a copy of Asia Knocks to friend Fr Larry Reitmeyer at the launch

Shepparton South where he remained for seven years.From there he was appointed to serve the community of Dee Why in

Sydney. After studies in Rome he was sent to Perth to assume the position of coordinator of Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs and then as episcopal vicar for migration. Asia Knocks, edited papers given at the Asia Knocks conference on migration to Australia organised by the Catholic Migrant Centre and the Office of Multicultural Pastoral Care at the University of Notre Dame in Fremantle several months ago, is Fr Dino's fifth published work. It fea-

tures highlights of the conference, including talks by Fr Paul Pang, director of the Vatican-based Office for the Promotion of the Overseas Chinese Apostolate and Fr Silvan° Tomasi, Secretary of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants. Recounting the history of the Catholic Church's work in immigration and on behalf of refugees, Archbishop Hickey said the Catholic Federal Immigration Committee responded to the enormous waves of migrants after World War II and entered into a close relationship with the Department (of Immigration. State director of the department, Chris Doepel, said one of the things which came through strongly from Fr Dino's book was its practical suggestions about what could be done for migrants and refugees at parish level. Asia Knocks has been jointly published by the Office of Multi-cultural Pastoral Care and the Catholic Migrant Centre and sells for $10. Fr Dino's Christmas reflection Page 9.

Victoria Park shows spirit Our Lady Help of Christians, East Victoria Park, parishioners kicked up its heels (in a genteel way) recently when they celebrated their diamond jubilee. Bishop Robert Healy was the chief celebrant assisted by PP Fr Brian Harris, and former parishioner Fr Gerard Holohan who grew up in the parish along with Frs Noel Fitzsimons and Peter Bianchini. Pictured here (left) is a 60-yearactive pioneer parishioner Mrs Jess Stockden with her daughter Pat, with a candle at the Mass symbolising the beginning of the 'light of faith' journey

Twenty years service

Christmas. A time for reflection

More than just a season of goodwill and giving, Christmas is a time to share. And a time to reflect upon our family around the world. In particular, it's a time to think of people in Third World countries ... their own, or perhaps as refugees in someone else's ... living their lives with a minimum of shelter, comforts and possessions. Or with none. Will you share your Christmas with those in other countries who are homeless, hungry or who suffer oppression and injustice? Through our sharing, may we understand that the greatest gift of all is to love one another. 6 19 MN

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Twenty years of faithful service as an acolyte didn't go unnoticed, unrewarded or uncelebrated at Star of the Sea parish Cottesloe when it came to honouring Anthony (Tony) O'Brien recently for his splendid term of giving. PP Monsignor McCrann is pictured giving an archdiocesan certificate of appreciation to Tony watched by Chairman of the Parish Council, Ed O'Loughlin.

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Priest moves Father Steven Casey, presently based at Kalgoorlie, has been appointed assistant priest at Saints John and Paul parish in Willetton. He will take up his appointment on 27 January, 1996.

Belo in the dark on new treaty By Peter Rosengren

Bishop Carlos Belo, the head of the Catholic Church in East Timor, was unaware of the security consultation treaty signed by Australia and Indonesia this week and was unable to comment as East Timorese groups in Australia condemned the alliance. "I am unaware of it. I have no channels of communication (about it) and no comment," he said last week as he spoke to The Record by telephone from Dili. The Record had contacted Bishop Belo to gain his views on the treaty, which could possibly see Australian troops defending Indonesia against future attack or vice versa. However the Australian-Indonesia treaty announced by Prime Minister Paul Keating last Thursday was immediately criticised by Bishop Hilton Deakin, auxiliary bishop of Melbourne, who has monitored Church and human rights developments in East Timor for many years.

He said that while it made good political sense, on the moral level it was an appalling arrangement. East Timor has now been occupied for twenty years by Indonesian armed forces, who invaded the country in 1975 to prevent the formation of a Marxist state led by thethen Fretilin forces, following sudden decolonisation of the Eastern half of the island by Portugal. Bishop Deakin, said that in terms of relationships between countries in the region, it was as good a move as one could ever care to make. "Indonesia's there, it's 190-plus million people, it's fast moving into the technological age, it's becoming highly developed in a very fast fashion. It's one of the nations of the world in the next decade or three," he emphasised. But he said that although the treaty made rational political and economical sense he was personally appalled. as were many East Timorese in Australia, because it involved the Indonesian army, the very agency that was oppressing the East Timorese.

Christmas cheer in Maylands

Maureen Blanket of Maylands receives one of the first deliveries of a St Vincent de Paul Christmas hamper containing plum pudding, Christmas biscuits, other foodstuffs and gifts from Maurice O'Sullivan of the St Vincent de Paul last Monday. And there's even more to come with the Christmas chicken delivered just in time for the roasting pan. The society will be giving out almost 4,000 hampers in WA this Christmas. Ms Blanket delightedly thanked the society and said it would be a great help for her two children as well as her sister with her four children on Christmas Day. Mr O'sullivan said he was "absolutely delighted!" with the response to the society's Christmas Hamper Appeal. It would be a great help in "trying to bring the Jesus touch into everything we do." Photo and story. Colleen McGurness-Howard

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Archbishop Hickey reads final prayers over Fr Attard's coffin at the end of the funeral Mass last week.

By Colleen McGuiness-Howard The measure of Fr Lawrence Attard's popularity and respect was evident last Thursday when Archbishop Barry Hickey celebrated Requiem Mass in St Mary's Cathedral in the company of a hundred priests from the country and metropolitan area, and a near-filled cathedral representing groups Fr Attard had been associated with as well as his many friends. His family from Malta, who had come over for his quintuple by-pass operation earlier this year, returned to mourn his loss. Archbishop Hickey in his panegyric recorded his "deep appreciation for all the work Fr Attard did in the archdiocese to build up people of God - to support them in difficult limes, to rejoice and be happy with them". He remembered the many people Fr Attard had helped since his arrival in Australia in 1965 and his joining the archdiocese in 1973. Archbishop Hickey described how

Fr Attard had been formed by the many groups he had been associated with, such as the Mama Nostra. which conducts a procession twice yearly. Other groups were the Garabandal Association, SACRI, the Marian Movement of Priests, and the Divine Mercy "for whom he had a special love, as well as a strong association with those who expressed publicly their devotion to Our Lady." He had also been very involved with the Italian community and the Maltese, for whom he had a regular session on ethnic radio. Expressing sadness at the loss "of our beloved brother," Archbishop Hickey thanked God for the qualities which made him such a good priest. "His prayerfulness and spirituality: the friendship and inspiration he gave us was a source of strength to many, and we are assured that he is already in the hands of his Creator, enjoying just rewards for the good and valuable life he led."

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)31sh0ps' 1qq5 Christmas messages

Find the heart's deep core with Christ child t

he themes of Christmas are peace, goodwill, reconciliations, joy and giving. I wish you all of these wonderful gifts during this Christmas Season. May it be a time of great joy with your friends and family. Although Christmas is celebrated by believers and non-believers alike, we who bear the name of Christian need to see why this is a special time. We have to go deeper than the outward spirit of Christmas to see the reason for all the celebrations and festivities. We believe that when Jesus was born at Bethlehem, the world

was never to be the same again. The early Christians used to celebrate Easter rather than Christmas, because the resurrection of Jesus from the dead and His sending of the Spirit at Pentecost ushered in a new age that spread like wildfire throughout the Roman Empire and beyond. The events of Christmas were more hidden, the facts gradually emerging as Mary would have told her story. But, despite the obscurity of the manger at Bethlehem, the birth of Our Lord meant that the Saviour had finally come. It would be years before

the world was to know that He had come, but He was there already, quietly preparing for His work of salvation. It is because we believe that child the at Bethlehem was not just a child like any other, but was the Son of God and the Saviour of the human race that we want to shout it from the rooftops. How wise the manner of the Saviour's coming among us. Had he arrived "on the clouds of majesty" as he will on the last day, people would have been afraid. Coming as he did as a baby, helpless and dependent, who could fear him? He was one of us, needing

to be looked after, needing to be clothed and fed and warmed, like any other little child. Surely there was a message in the way He came. He does not want us to fear Him but recognise Him as our true brother, one we can turn to and trust. During His life on earth He said repeatedly "Be not afraid, fear not", therefore we have confidence in approaching Him now in all His power and majesty, because we know that He shared our life, that He knows us intimately and is full of compassion. This Christmas let us not forget Him with all the

His journey is also ours 3 have just sent a Christmas gift and greetings to an old friend of mine living in Vietnam. He is now 84 years of age and was ordained a Priest with me in Rome in 1950. A scholar and an educationalist, he suffered under the Communist regime and was deprived of his most precious treasure, freedom to exercise his Priestly ministry A few years ago life became more liberalised over there and he emerged from his hidden and strictly-supervised life to write me a letter and renew contact with the wider world once again. The Church is still far from free to carry out its traditional role but things are improving and it is good to be able to share thoughts and friendship once again with someone who suffered so much for so long. And now he is advising me to study gerontology - the science of growing old. "Renew your studies of Greek and Hebrew," he advises me. He says, "I am now reading the Scriptures in the original languages. I walk so far each day and push a wheelbarrow filled with bricks." and then he facetiously adds "I think I will live for

Christ's teaching because of his mental power and his heartfelt courage. I have never had to face that sort of challenge in my journey as an apostle of Christ and many of you reading this. I'm sure, have never had that experience of suffering. Our journeys may be very different and very personal but all of us will have our own challenges as

ever.-

The faith that he and I shared took us to Rome to study for the Priesthood. There we entered the long apostolic line coming from St Peter to become Priests of Christ. His journey was sustained by Christ's graces and his studies about

followers of Christ. My priestfriend faced the challenge of an atheistic persecutor of the Church. Our challenge may be to live by Gospel values in a society where success and power and self gratifi-

cation are much more the proclaimed standards. In practice how hard it is to stand by the values Christ proclaimed as the yva to fulfil the will of the Father. "Blessed are the poor in spirit. the meek, those who suffer persecution, those who mourn " such undesirable standards, and yet they are the very basis of God's plan for our happiness, our peace and our ability to live and love and work together - the veil core of the Gospel My friend in Vietnam had to put up with the injustice of oppression, the humiliation of insult and the arrogance of a self righteous regime. From the stable to the refugee camp, to the betrayal by friends, to the crucifixion was the journey of Christ. A total change from the journey of self satisfaction, a total handing-over to the Father. For this He was charged and arrested and executed. It was too hard for them to accept His new way of life which began when this outcast child was born in the rough and unacceptable, but God-chosen, stable in Bethlehem. I hope the Infant Jesus will help us all to accept the unpalatable. the unwanted and the hard things in life, consoled by the knowledge that is with Him that we make our journey I wish you all the Blessings of Christ Our Saviour. Peter Quinn Bishop of Bunbury

noise and rushing around. Take time out to reflect on the scene at Bethlehem. Prepare for Christmas by a sincere and open confession of sins, and a relevant and loving reception of His Body and Blood at our Christmas Mass. If the spiritual side of Christmas is lost, it might as well be just another civic holiday when we head for the beach. Christmas must be different. I wish you all a very happy and holy Christmas and pray that the New Year will be full of God's blessings. Barry James Hickey Archbishop of Perth

Above all, Christmas is a time for our families

was hardly aware that Christmas was fast approaching until I had to attend my first Christmas celebration on the first Sunday of December. I joined the West Australian Indonesian Catholic Community that evening at

South Perth. There were about 400 people present and we all had a very pleasant time. Perhaps the most remarkable feature of the celebration was that the entertainment was provided by young people- singing,

music, drama. The drama was significant because it placed an emphasis on the family, and Christmas is above all a family feast. One could say the young people scripted the drama themselves so the message was their message. their Christmas message. They endeavoured to paint a word picture of the effect of the coming of Jesus on family life Even though the drama was done in Indonesian, it was easy to follow the trend of it all. Especially, there was the contrast between the family whose members feuded with each other and the family that was peaceful and loving. We think of good example as the duty of the individual but the group, especially the family group, can give good example too. In the end, it was this good example of one family that prevailed and that encouraged the members of the other family to seek peace between each other. So my message this Christmas Is to families especially. May the peace of Christmas, announced by the Angels on the first Christmas night, come to all families this Christmas and remain with them all this coming year. Robert Healy Auxiliary bishop of Perth

Take time to ponder the place and the circumstances

ur loving God was always part of and close to the world He created, but by taking flesh, God became part of this world in the most intimate of ways. God came into a hostile world one which wasn't in full harmony. There was the occupation of Palestine by the Romans and the Jews deeply resented this. There was hostility to Himself who was seen as a threat to the temporal power of Herod. At the time of being born among us, there was non-acceptance expre§sed by the way He was cast out into the old shed or cave. We have believed in the Incarnation for many years. No matter how much we ponder and reflect on these things in our heart like Mary, we will hardly begin to understand our gracious God and what our God did for us. We need also to ponder the circumstances and place into which 4

The' Record, ecrribili 11,..1§95

the Son of God came - and to see Northern Ireland, the civil strife in many our God seems absent, and more the meaning of this today. Sri Lanka, oppressed East Timor yet in suffering, our suffering and "God coming only to what was and all the many places where crucified Lord is nowhere more good and ready to receive Him" there is war, injustice and poverty. really present. (and therefore to me and each of Jesus is in the suffering victims The Incarnation means that our us) was a strong idea I grew up of all these human circumstances God is with our world and all that with. It wasn't specifically taught and conditions. happens whether it be good or but it must have been around very Jesus is with the leaders who are not. Jesus is part of the life of much for me to drink it in. responsible for all this - the pow- every human being whether God Jesus does come to the good and erful, the greedy, the vengeful Is acknowledged or not. He is to loving hearts open to receive people - wanting to touch their offering His love, peace and many Him. Jesus also said: "Yes, God hearts and calling them to use gifts. He is calling all to see Hint loved the world so much that He their power for good. there, know Him more and grow gave His only Son, so that everyJesus is in all people of good will In love for Him and for His brothone who believes in Him may not working for peace and justice all ers and sisters, especially the least be lost but may have eternal life. over the world. of them. For God sent His Son into the Jesus is in us created in God's I wish you all a very Happy world not to condemn the world, Image, striving to love God and Christmas. As we celebrate the but so that through Him the world yet still tainted by sin. Incarnation and Christ - Mass, might be saved." an 3 :16-17). Jesus is in families who love one may this reflection touch some Jesus mixed readily with sinners. another. He is in the broken fami- part of our lives and help us touch He moved freely among them and ly, the single parent family, the God in some deeper way. May was criticised openly for it. families who are in conflict. that wonderful Incarnate God also In the light of this, it is important Jesus is close to all the sick, the touch more deeply through us. to re-think the Incarnation. suffering, people with problems the lives of others. Jesus is in war-torn Bosnia, and tension, the dying, the grievJustin Bianchint poverty-stricken Rwanda, divided ing. It is at these times that for Bishop of Geraldton

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go Christmas messages

Let the season touch you so you may share it Kimberley. In the spirit of Peace and quiet Joy I am writing my last Christmas letter to you. For me this year has been an unusual one. As you know I retired in October last year. Since then I have been waiting and preparing for the naming of your new Bishop. The story of Jesus' birth always offers something relevant for our lives. Mary and Joseph waited and prepared for the birth of their Child. They would have been filled with excitement and hopes. They would have made plans that seemed best for their baby. As we know, some of their plans were abruptly changed: they were rejected as visitors; they were far away from their family and couldn't find a good place for the birth of their

child; they had to suddenly pack-up and go into exile. Yet this was God's strange plan for Mary, Joseph and for Jesus. Shepherds became their family, Wise men their friends. The whole story is both humble and humbling. Mary and Joseph listened to God's plan

unfold for them, believing that all would be well even though it was so different. They found their Joy and Peace in the Child, Jesus. And this is my Christmas wish and prayer for you. That, listening to God's plan unfold for you, you may find Joy and Peace in our Saviour, Jesus. Looking back over my 37 years here as your Bishop, Christmas has always been a special time to think about God's love for us. When I first came the small Kimberley population had just begun to recover from the ravages of World War II. They were hard days yet we always managed to find a way to make the Christmas story of Jesus' birth come alive. Later, while attending the Vatican Council I invited many more Brothers, Sisters, Priests and Lay Missionaries to help

Father has accepted my- resignation and named my successor. Reverend Christopher Saunders (Bishop-elect) will be ordained Bishop in Broome on February 8, 1996. May the Holy Spirit be with him to guide him and may he continue the work begun by so many generous people in the Kimberley. I myself thank you for your support, loyalty and affection over all the years. During my retirement I'll have ample time to keep you in my thoughts and prayers. May you be filled with the Peace and Joy Jesus offers us this Christmas, and may His Spirit guide you during the coming year. Yours sincerely in Jesus Christ, John Jobst Bishop Emeritus of Broome

spread the Good News throughout the Kimberley. This post-Vatican period was a time of unparalleled growth in the history of the Church. The enthusiasm and sacrifices made by my fellow missionaries deserve full recognition and praise. Only the Lord Himself can adequately reward them. By now the Catholic population in the Kimberley has grown immensely and many of you know and love Jesus. He is part of your lives. I ask you this Christmas to stop quietly for a while to read or tell the story once again. Let it touch your hearts. Share it among friends. Pass it on to your children. If we are not careful the noise and glitter of TV parties and shopping can block the true meaning of Christmas. Finally, as you know the Holy

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Oloru to Ood . . . Christmas 995

The hidden language of nativity sets 3

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f your Nativity scene is extremely colourful but set within an old, ruined temple or castle, you have a creche influenced by the Neapolitan tradition. If the whole village is represented, teeming with life and love for the new Christ Child, you've got a Nativity set inspired by the Provencal tradition. If a tree full of apples is part of the creche landscape and a monk waits nearby to record the tale of the birth of Jesus, your Nativity scene is recreating German symbolism. Whether it's an heirloom-quality porcelain masterpiece or some sturdy, knock-about wooden figures on top of the television set, a Nativity scene can enhance the religious tradition of Christmas, according to Marianist Father Johann Roten, director of the Marian LibraryInternational Marian Research Institute at the University of Dayton. The Marian Library, which contains the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of printed materials on the Blessed Mother is actively building its collection of Nativity sets. Nativity scenes first gained popularity in the 17th century, Father Roten said, and were promoted by the Capuchin, Jesuit and Franciscan orders. By the 18th century, three centres of creche culture had emerged: in Naples, Italy; Provence, France; and southern Germany and Austria, each featuring different styles. Italian creches placed the Holy Family in an old temple or castle, "usually represented as a ruin, with broken pillars or archways." Father

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There are good reasons for taking a closer look at the cast of characters in the manger scene displayed in your home or parish this Christmas. The manger scene is so moving that it is easy to remain on the surface. But by viewing it in light of the whole History of salvation, we learn a lot. So take a little time to look carefully at the creche. Look below the surface. See what wonders God has done. Consider the manger itself: It is a feeding trough for animals. It was normally a dirty place - hardly an ideal place to put a newborn infant. Yet Jesus is found in a manger, reminding us that he is food for the world and nourishment for our souls. The manger points us toward the

altar of the Eucharist. where Jesus offers his body and blood to us as our nourishment. The infant lying in the manger is wrapped in swaddling clothes. The term "swaddling" may sound strange to us, but to the people of Jesus' time it had just the opposite effect. Every Jewish child was swaddled. To say that the firstborn of God was swaddled is to say that he is truly one of us. As King Solomon says in the book of Wisdom (7:4-5): "In swaddling clothes and with constant care I was nurtured. For no king has any different origin or birth." The swaddling clothes speak the wonder of the Incarnation, that the Son of God is human like us. In most manger scenes, the holy family is flanked by an ox and an ass. As a child I wondered why those two

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Nativity sets - often the first discovery of the awe and wonder of the birth of Jesus

animals were included. It was only recently that I learned of their link to the third verse of the book of Isaiah 1: "An ox knows its owner, and an ass. its master's manger: but Israel does not know, my people has not understood." You see, the animals in the manger are symbols of all who know the master and understand his importance to all the world. Two groups commonly are depicted as coming to adore the newborn king. The shepherds are found in the Gospel according to Luke, while the Magi appear in Matthew's account. Each group expresses something

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"We thought that planning our funerals would be an uncomfortable business. But the Purslowe family made it very easy.-

only thing you have to do is pick them," Father Roten said. A monk is often included in the creche, representing St Jerome, the legendary translator of the Bible who is regarded as the storyteller of the life of Jesus. Father Roten finds grace in most creche creations, even those that are too cutesy for some people's taste. "A child has a phenomenal capacity for transfer," Father Roten says. "A mouse is not necessarily a mouse; it can be something human or closer than human for a child. A mouse is nice and pretty and small enough to handle. It can help a child see some of the more important values, for the time being. There (is plenty of) time to go to the next stage for something more historical and realistic."

The animals witnessed where people did not By Father Lawrence Mick

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Roten said in an interview. -It was an direction toward the manger in heavhistorical statement, that the old cul- enly Jerusalem." ture has been destroyed, and a new Symbolism plays a central role in history is originating." the German and Austrian Nativity Many Italian Nativity scenes includ- scenes, Father Roten said. ed "Sometimes there is a little bridge . a palm tree, he said, to represent 'new life and fertility and longevity." over an alpine ravine or stream, and The figures generally are extremely you see in the middle of the bridge a colourful, sometimes even freakish, woman carrying a bundle of wood he added. on her shoulder," Father Roten said. The French generally placed the The woman is choosing between Holy Family within an entire village, good and evil, he said. She is rejectusually clustered on the top of a hill ing the dark figures, such as thieves, with narrow streets and houses of on one side to go toward the Holy brick and mortar, according to Father Family. Roten. Another symbol, an apple tree "There is the whole village life that laden with ripe fruit, might be part of surrounds the Nativity, with butchers the German and Austrian tradition. and bakers and millers and the "It's an expression of new life. In the mayor. The whole community is midst of winter darkness, you have involved in the Christmas event." an apple tree with ripe apples. The It's a down-to-earth scene, he says, that shows villagers learning, singing, drinking and living. A common figure in Provencal Nativity scenes is the Ray, "the exalted one." Portrayed on his knees with arms reaching to heaven, he is the village fool -who is the only one who actually expresses in posture and expression the ecstatic joy he has at the time of the Nativity," Father Roten says. -He understands what the baby means. Only the fool is able to be truly wise." The Germans and Austrians usually included landscape in their creches. "They had mountains, rivers and valleys, and related to that a city or a castle that was the symbol of heavenly Jerusalem," the priest said. "It was a geographic representation of a different dwelling place at the end of history, so that history has a goal and

North Perth 444 4834. Midland 274 384i6, Victoria Park 361 11S5, Wanneroo 409 9119, Northam (0961 22 1137 Mareena Purslowe and Associates. Suniaeo,'388 1623

important about this newborn child. Why shepherds? Why not carpenters or merchants or priests? This may hint at Jesus' role as the shepherd of the flock of Israel, but Luke probably sees a deeper message here. Shepherds were despised in Israel, since their work made it difficult for them to fulfil the demands of the law. They had to follow and guard the sheep every day, even on the Sabbath. And living in the fields with the flocks made it difficult to observe all the dietary and cleansing rules. Thus the shepherds were on the fringes of society, and they stand for the poor and the outcast to whom Jesus came to proclaim the good news. Throughout Luke's Gospel, Jesus shows a special concern for the poor. The Magi in Matthew's Gospel also stand for a larger group. They are non-Jews, gentiles; they represent all the peoples of the world. , : 111 It is a strong symbol that the salvation Jesus brings is intended not only for Israel but for all the world. .04 The manger scene contains a wealth of meaning that can be I V a basis for meditation and ovc prayer, deepening our appreciation of the wonder of • Christmas. C...

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he Censorship Bill as presented to Parliament in October 1995 allows literary and artistic merit to over-ride the child pornography definition; allows X-rated, R-rated and MA material to be viewed and-or downloaded from the home computer - any eight year old can do this; and allows the screening of X-rated material in any venue with a restricted patronage or where patrons have been warned as to what will be screened. Cheryl Edwardes (The Record, December 14) has highlighted the Coalition Government's policy on censorship namely, adults must be allowed access to material despite the damage this may do to them as individuals; to the society in which they live; and to children who will gain possession through this adult access. Although it is well known that members of the Liberal Party hold this view it has never been stated so clearly and publicly before. What is surprising is that the National Party members of the Coalition have accepted this view without a murmur (I wonder what their voters think?). The one hope for the thousands in the community who are voicing their opposition to X-rated material is that the Labor Party will continue the work of the Burke Government and vote to keep X-rated material as unclassified. Ray Studham Mt Lawley

Accusation unjustified

ather Chiera's accusation (The Record December 14 ) that my letter (December 7) "contains a clearly unbalanced view of the world" is unjustified. In my previous letter, I mentioned some of the atrocities that have tainted the modern world. I make no apology for ******************

s your editorial note suggests (The port from [from the Church]." What proRecord, December 7) Ms Abbott is fessors of divinity and enraged women not alone in her judgement that both fail to see is the futility of "kicking the Pope "indulged in a gross abuse of against the goads" (Acts 26:14). God in His infinite wisdom made us in power" by approving the Response of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith his image - male and female, equal in on the infallible status of the teaching dignity, distinct in gender, two wonderful that only men may be ordained to the ways of being human. Christ in his plan for his Bride the priesthood. However, it is not only women who Church instituted a sacrificial priesthood share this judgement. In an article pub- to represent and image him as the eterlished in the London Tablet (December nal priest. Those men called by Christ throughout 2) Nicholas Lash, Norris-Hulse Professor of Divinity at Cambridge University, the ages humbly receive ordination to accuses the Pope and Cardinal Ratzinger service and sacrifice. "No one takes the of conspiring in a "quite scandalous honour to himself, but receives it when abuse of power." Photocopies of this arti- he is called by God" (Hebrews 5:4). Christ also gave us Peter the Rock with cle have appeared in the porch of our the ministry of "strengthening the parish Church. Ms Abbott also refers to the Catholic brethren" in the Faith. It is this ministry Women's Survey being conducted in the that Pope John Paul II has courageously Bunbury Diocese by Ms Deborah and faithfully exercised in his authoritative teaching on priestly ordination. Robertson. God also chose Mary, to be the Woman. There is a risk the survey will provoke further those women angry enough the New Eve, Mother of God and Mother about the Pope's refusal to allow of the Church. He calls women to imitate her life of v omen's ordination, and the general i tequality of women in the Church, as it faith and love as the heart and soul of the asks respondents if they would be willing Church. This woman. and I am sure I am not to "write letters; sign petitions; participate in women's liturgies; contribute financial alone, is more than content to strive to support; join women's ordination lobby follow her example. groups; participate in marches; partici- Stephonie Crees pate in boycotts; withhold financial sup- Albany this as these atrocities are facts that cannot be ignored, and are not "simplistic condemnations" as Fr Chiera puts It. I have no doubt that there are many good works being carried out by many good people. But these good works seem to be overshadowed by the sixty million babies killed by abortion world-wide; the thousands of sick and dying people killed by doctors in Holland - the euthanasia capital of the world; the destruction of so called "wasted embryos" in the IVF programs; the innocent girls who are lured into prostitution in Asia through poverty; the condonement (rather than discour*:%****:%*

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The Church must keep a respectful distance from the world if it is not to compromise those teachings and traditions with which God has entrusted her. Jesus himself was mindful of the gulf that separates the world from the things of God. His prayer for his Apostles was "It is time for them that I pray. I am not praying for the world" ( John 17:9). Later on, Jesus says "They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world" (John 17:16) . As a famous saint once said, "although we are in the world we are not of the world". Joseph Said Noranda

Spare a prayer

friend of mine suggested to me recently a practice which I have found intriguing. He is a person who is often concerned about the problem of abortion and says that it constitutes one of the most significant moral problems in this country at the present time. I think he is probably right. What he suggested was simple ("dead easy" in his words) and is as follows. Each night, he told me, when saying his prayers he offers them up not only for his own intentions, but for an unborn child in danger of abortion which he has 'adopted.' "What do you mean, 'adopted'?" I asked. "Just what I said," he answered. agement) of de facto relationships by the "Somewhere, here in Australia or around Australian Government in financially the world, there is an unborn child in assisting these couples as if they were danger of abortion. "So I have adopted him or her. I ask married; the prominence given to to protect the child and its mother God promiscuous behaviour flaunted by such organisations as the gay and lesbian from abortion and help them both to movement under the banner "freedom of make it through to birth." He just looked at me when he said that rights'; and the list goes on and on. Fr Chiera states that "the world listens and I was just about to say something to the church when the church, holding when I realised that it was not as silly as true to its principles, offers practical and it sounded. So I am passing it along to your readers compassionate solidarity". But there is a their own information and, perhaps, for contradiction here, for the Church canuse. solidarity, in world the embrace not whilst at the same time expose the evil Joe Suter East Perth that is being perpetrated.

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When the Babe came to Greccio By Ian Asphar

t happened at Christmas about the year 1223. A figure dressed in a grey habit, with a knotted rope around his waist, walked slowly down the street of a small country town in Italy, speaking to all who would stop and listen, especially the poor, the hungry and the homeless. The man seemed to know everyone, but some, dressed in rich clothing, passed quickly, as if embarrassed to be seen talking to him. A young girl rushed up to speak to him, only to be called back by the stern voice of her mother. With a good natured wave he acknowledged everyone. Even the animals seemed to smile at him as he passed. The dogs would wag their tails, the cats purred as they brushed up against his legs, and the birds seemed to fill the air around him. The day was soon approaching when the people would be celebrating the birth of Jesus in the stable at Bethlehem and it was this man's wish that all the people, the rich and the poor, of all beliefs, would gather together to celebrate the incarnation of Jesus. As the man went on his slow way through the town and out into the fields he tried to imagine what had happened that special night a long time ago. He looked up at the star-filled

Then the shepherds repeated night sky and one star seemed brighter than the rest and its light the words spoken to their seemed to shine on an old stable brethren by an angel some eleven hundred years ago. in the corner of a field. "Do not be afraid; behold I He heard noises and, as he walked toward the sound, a don- bring you good news of a great key and an ox came to greet him. rejoicing for all people. This day As he bent to stroke their heads in the city of David. a Saviour is he wondered what comfort they born for you, the Lord Jesus could have been to Joseph as he Himself. This is the sign by which you are to know him; you witnessed the birth of Jesus. The night turned cold and, as will find a child, still in swadhe sat in the stable, the breath of dling clothes, lying in a manger." The next day the man and his the animals seemed to warm the air. He pictured Joseph and friends made figures out of straw Mary, with her new born babe, and clothed them depicting the and the appearance of three baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph wise men bearing gifts of gold, with the three wise men and the shepherds paying homage . . . . frankincense and myrrh. His reverie was broken by the and also there were the donkey. sound of voices calling softly to the ox and the sheep. All the people from the town the sheep and the shepherds appeared and greeted him kind- came to look and pray at this, the first replica of the Nativity scene. ly. The man looked up as if woken Within days the word had travfrom a dream, and when he elled and people came from spoke his voice was filled with other towns and villages. Then, on that Christmas Eve, a emotion. "Can't you feel their presence? portable altar was set up in the The Holy Family are here . . . fields and at the vigil mass the with us now Look and lis- nativity scene was mimed, also for the first time, as part of the ten." poor King whom he called the The men looked, and saw, and Mass. The man, Francis, stood before "babe of Bethlehem." The figure they bowed their heads and knelt in adoration, for they, too, the crib, near the altar, and his in the grey habit, knotted at the saw Joseph looking down on heart overflowed with tender waist with a rope, was St Francis Mary nursing the baby Jesus, and compassion; he was bathed in of Assisi. The place was Greccio. St Francis' wish had come true. the three wise men appeared tears but overcome with joy. with their gifts. The Mass was sung and Francis, By re-enacting the story of the From above they heard the voic- who was a deacon, sang the birth of Jesus in the stable at Bethlehem everyone had the es of angels singing "Glory to Gospel. God in high heaven, and peace to Then he preached to the peo- opportunity of sharing in that men that are God's friends. . . ." ple about roar .id about the wonderful experience he had in

feeling he was present at the birth of Jesus. Ever since that Christmas people have mimed and acted the story of the Nativity and the replicas of the nativity scenes are seen throughout the whole world reminding everyone for the reason of our festivities and truly helping in bringing Christ back into Christmas. The Record. December 20, 1995

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Mother and Child by West Australian artist Elizabeth Durack A modern Christmas Story told by

Mary O'Reeri and written by Sr Clare Ahern, November 1995 e were nearing the end of our semester as I encouraged a group of matureaged Aboriginal students from across the Kimberley to share their experience of Aboriginal indigenous spirituality as lived in their communities. We listened to stories of a desert group performing mourning rituals, of salt water people calling out to their ancestors to help them with their fishing, and of the spirit children coming to the mothers to be born as babies. It was then that one young woman, a beautiful Aboriginal Madonna shared her spirituality by telling how God answered her prayer. The group sat in silence and reverence as Mary began with gentle dignity. 'It was with great sorrow and sadness that I understood what the doctor said. The eleven week old baby inside me was deformed. It had no

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hope of surviving. He advised me to have it terminated as my own life was endangered too. I listened to his explanation of the scientific tests that the specialists had performed. The rats had died and my baby would die too. "And if the baby is not taken perhaps you will die,' he warned. 'The hospital staff are ready to take you to the airport in the morning for the operation. Your seat on the plane to Perth is booked.' I thought of that little baby that I had wanted so badly over the past six years and now after eleven weeks of life close to my heart, its little life was threatened. I needed time to think I could not destroy so easily and quickly a little life I had wanted so much. 'Do I have the final decision?' I asked. 'Yes, it is your decision.' 'I will tell you in the morning,' I whispered through my sadness and I was left alone in the ward with my frightening thoughts.

I cried and prayed during that long night, saying my rosary, asking God for a sign. I pleaded for help to make a decision and finally overcome with my tears and my pain, I fell asleep. At some time during the night,I was aware of the room filled with a bright blue light and my auntie, my father's sister, who had passed away, standing there at my bedside talking to me. 'You keep that baby' she said. 'The doctor is wrong. The baby will live. Don't let him take your baby.' The night moved on and morning came with the bright sun streaming through my window. 'Oh God, is this message from my auntie the answer you have sent me?' I asked. While I was lying there remembering the dream, my uncle, my auntie's brother, who was in hospital too, wheeled himself in the hospital wheelchair into my room. 'Your auntie , came to see you last night,' he said in a strong voice. 'She knows what you should do for the baby. Do what she said'. I needed no more signs. My prayer was answered. My decision was made. I told the doctor I would keep my baby and accept her and love her in whatever way God sent her to me. The time for my baby's birth slowly and painfully drew near and after twenty seven hours in labour, beautiful and healthy Talannah was born. The doctors were amazed. I held my little girl close and with my husband and two older children thanked God for his.answers to our prayers. Nelson, my husband took me and our beautiful little girl home to my community but a month later I was back in hospital fighting for my life as the doctors searched to find the answer to my rare blood disease. During my four month stay in hospital my little girl stayed close to me. I refused to let her go.I was too weak to hold her but as she lay next to me on the bed, her little eyes fixed on me and her smile kept me going. She gave me the energy and determina-

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(often the first death most of us experience is that of a grandparent) a little Ib r E hristmas can be a wretched tear and certainly a sad voice is evitime for some families with our dence often of great love. When I ask them for examples of the local daily paper publishing quite realistic "Strategies to avoid fes- gift of wisdom in their lives, they also tive friction" (9 December). In most really look at grandparents as truly homes however, it is a time of great "seats of wisdom." Ills a bit of a change for an older celebration and joy, and children, especially little ones, become so much generation when grandparents were part of the celebration of our Saviour's perhaps a little aloof (as indeed were many parents, especially fathers) birth. Grandparents, at whose homes the grannies wore such funny clothes Christmas celebrations often take lace up shoes, old-looking clothes. place have a really special role. Perhaps grandfathers had waistcoats Grandparents emulate, I suppose, an and fob-watches or the like. What must it be like to be a grandelderly Father Christmas himself, as bearers of presents and great love parent! Great joy, especially at times towards their grandchildren - and of religious and other celebrations how much love they receive in return. sadness if the grandchildren are interWhen visiting children about to be state or overseas or already gone to confirmed, I speak of "Saints" - their God. Sadness if their grandchildren new Saints' names - how we are all are separated from them because of a called to holiness and sainthood and broken marriage. Sadness if their reli"do the children know any really good gious upbringing is neglected. people on earth or already in heaven". Every priest has received calls from The answers invariably include a heavy concentration of "my Nan, my anxious grandparents about baptism Pop, my Nana"! and if they have died and Catholic upbringing of their

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The value of grandparents, friends to the young By Monsignor Michael Keating

tion to live, her tiny presence injecting courage into my tired body. A few months earlier I had given life to Talannah, now she was giving me life for a day at a time. And on one day the news we had prayed for came. The doctors' search for answers to my problem was successful. They made contact with some specialists in Florida who had developed successful medication for my blood disease. My little girl is now three years old. Talannah is healthy, intelligent and as normal as all three year olds. I keep this story close to my heart. I prayed and pleaded and God gave me a sign. He gave me a sign through my Aboriginal spirituality, through my auntie and my uncle, a sign that meant life for my baby and myself. This is the way God often sends my people messages. I do not understand how my uncle knew what happened to me in my sleep but I understand that God sends messages in many different ways to my people.' The class discussion then moved to another tribal people, a group who also received messages through dreams. The students remembered another Mary who received the news of her coming baby from God's messenger, and they recalled the dreams given to her man who was told to take her, look after her and protect the child. They also spoke of the baby who came to give life to all. I thanked the class for their sincere sharing and Mary for telling me her beautiful Christmas story. We walked out of the lecture room together., 'Mary', I urged 'Have you thought about publishing that story for others to read?' She looked at me and we smiled together. I remembered, Mary is a wife and mother of three children, a teaching assistant in a busy school, a trainee teacher and a very pregnant lady waiting for her next baby child. 'You write it', she answered, 'You tell them my Christmas story.'

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grandchildren. Surely grandparents are a great example of the maxim "to give is to gain" - how much pleasure they receive, but how important they are to their grandchildren. Grand-parents must have many memories to freeze in their memory books as grandchildren rush to greet them, send them drawings, come to visit or even stay for a thankfully short visit! Grandparents have time to play games, to take walks, to let grandchildren dawdle over meals and be spe-

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cial. Grandparents do have time to listen and explain. The special bond of grandparents and grandchildren is an Important one. Grandparents have a wonderful opportunity to create special occasions, spoil grandchildren and enjoy them growing up. They have such an Important religious role - encouraging, teaching but not interfering. It is a delicate balance. Grandparents should not stray into the role of parents. It is important for grandparents not to have favourites among their grandchildren. All grandchildren, boys and girls, need that special smile, a hug and an honest, listening ear. Could we not really have a programme of "Honourary" grandparents in our Parishes? Many older people already fulfil this role for children without grandparents. It is an important and rewarding one. So congratulations Grandparents and "Honour-ary" grandparents! Enjoy them this Christmas if you are fortunate enough to have them with you.

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Ming on a pew of the Church the other day, I was thinking on how a crib could be a sign of welcoming, of family care, of love and unity. A crib, outside the comfort of the village, is only a refuge, a last-minute-shelter, a place much more comfortable for animals than for human beings! Yet God-made-man in Jesus could not find anything better than a crib. Why? Will Christ coming in our midst this Christmas be born again in a crib or - to put it in modern words will He find shelter under a bridge because there is no room for Him in our comfortable homes? You see, in this Christmas Jesus has been invited to the party. He is actually the "supposed" guest of honour of our celebrations. But probably we have forgotten what He looks like: perhaps our idea of Christ does not match the Christ of 1995 knocking at our doors. It would be better then for us. rather than the traditional romantic crib that does not upset the feelings of the "good people" going to the Christmas Midnight Mass this year. to build an under-thebridge shelter as a clear reminder of today's responsibilities to welcome, in a practical way, the stranger. I was reading a story during the week. The disciple was following his master while they were crossing a meadow full of healthy green grass. Only here and there a tall tree was standing in all its majesty creating a special visual effect on the landscape. The disciple stopped spellbound, and said: "Master. don't you think that we. committed as we are to spiritual life, are like those beautiful trees towering over the green grass'?" "I don't know." said his master it would be better to ask the Lord himself. He sees everything from above, and for Him up there the grass and the trees are only the same green mantle over the meadow." Unhappily, the world has yet to learn how to live with diversity, as recent events in the Balkans and Central Africa have painfully reminded us. We all have seen that on TV or heard it on the radio. Even though we felt sorry for all those people. they were too far away from home to make a difference. No one of them came to knock at our doors, asking for asylum. I believe Christmas 1995 brings a challenge that goes beyond our traditional crib. "In the Church no one is a stranger, and the Church is not foreign to anyone. anywhere!". says Pope John Paul the second. Adequate protection should be guaranteed to those who, although they have fled from their countries for reasons unforeseen by international conventions, could indeed be seriously risking their life were they forced to return to their homeland. But do we care? I wonder how many of our Christian people this Christmas 1995 will have the courage to move away from the traditional crib and build something more meaningful for our today. Perhaps it is lack of courage to be different for Christ. perhaps the status quo is more comfortable, or perhaps it is easier not to think about it. Yet, the question of migrants, refugees and illegal migrants cannot be forgotten this Christmas 1995. "It is the Church's task not only to present constantly the Lord's teaching of Faith, but also to indicate its appropriate applications to the various situations which the changing times continue to create. For instance, today the illegal migrant comes before us like that "stranger" in whom Jesus asks to be recognised. To welcome him and to show him solidarity is a duty of hospitality and fidelity to Christian identity itselr, says our present Pope. The mass media, led by politicians, follow a different track "Send them back! These people jump the queue of regular immigrants! They upset the system and our institutions!" Perhaps. But have we ever thought of re-adjusting the system? Once I heard this story. A woman was always complaining about her neighbours. That particular day a friend went to see her. "You can't imagine, dear, how dirty those people are"!, she said: the children are like little piglets, and the house is a mess.' "It can't be so bad!", replied the friend in disbelief. "Well, come here and see for yourself!" insisted the woman, taking her friend to the window. She looked at the clothes-line, then at the window, and remarked: "But my dear, not the linen but your window is dirty!" Christmas 1995 is asking a question: Is present-day Australia becoming less sensitive, less caring towards the poor, the weak, the stranger, the needy? It must not. Today, as before, Australia is called to be a hospitable society, a welcoming culture. In doing so, we shall see that the tears of our country today have prepared the ground for a new springtime tomorrow. Happy Christmas for 1995.

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One of Father Dino Torresan's creations pointing Perth Catholics beyond the traditional depiction of the crib.

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THE 6th ANNUAL FLAME CONGRESS 1996

W THE N" TRUMPETS IN Monday Jan 22nd to Sunday Jan 28th 1996 John 23rd Lecture Theatre, John 23rd Avenue, Claremont.

This Congress is presented with the approval of His Grace, Archbishop Hickey to equip delegates with the know-how and inspiration for effectively sharing your Faith. There will be workshops on Healings, Miracles, Signs & Wonders as well as practical skills. Areas to be covered will include the Family, Youth, Parish Renewal, Schools and One to One sharing of the Faith. There will be healing ministry throughout the week. If you wish to grow in your faith, and want to know how to share it effectively, this Congress is for you.

These international speakers are in demand around the zvorld and have many healings and conversions attributed to their ministry. Fr. Pat Lynch is the author of the popular book;

"Awakening The Giant" and the founder of the Sion Community in Birmingham, England. He is a preacher of note in Catholic and Protestant Churches and a regular speaker on Radio & Television in England & Ireland. Fr. Gino Henriques is based in Singapore and the head of Evangelisation 2000 Asia-Oceania. He is an author and dynamic international preacher. He has been instrumental in beginning a large Youth Movement in India which involves training for Colleges & University Campuses through music, drama & ministry in Schools. Rev. Dr. Russell sage is a Preacher and Missionary associated with the Vineyard Churches. He is in demand around the world in Catholic & Protestant Churches. He has a powerful healing gift which has witnessed many miracles. Eddie Russell R4iis a recognised Catholic Evangelist and Preacher who has preached in Australia, Singapore and England. He is the author of several programmes and seminars on the Christian faith and has spoken in both Catholic and Protestant Churches. He is the editor of an International Christian Magazine called Blaze. Guy Sutton-Mattocks nli is a recognised Catholic Evangelist and Preacher who has preached in USA, England, Australia and Pakistan. He is the author of several articles and seminars and has spoken in both Catholic and Protestant Churches. Frank TaSSOIN, RII is a recognised Catholic Evangelist and Preacher with many years experience in Youth Ministry. He is the author of several articles and a Seminar/Retreat for Youth. He has preached in England, Australia and Singapore. THE PROGRAMME Evening Celebration Rallies: Mon Jan 22nd 7.30pm - Fr. Pat Lynch "Blow The Trumpets In Zion" (Awakening The Giant) Tues Jan 23rd 7.30pm Fr. Gino Henriques "Catch The Vision" Wed Jan 24th 7.30pm - Rev. Dr. Russell Sage "Signs & Wonders" Thur Jan 25th 7.30pm - Fr. Pat Lynch "Building On The Rock" Fri Jan 26th 7.30pm - Fr. Gino Henriques "Arise Australian Youth"

Sat Jan 27th 7.30pm - Rev. Dr. Russell Sage "Christ Crucified" Sun Jan 28th 7.30pm - Fr. Pat Lynch - "Gol" Daytime Workshop Sessions: erea Dr.egates Tues Jan 23rd 10am - 12noon Guy Sutton-Mattocks FM! "Beyond The Cross" 1.pm - 3pm - Fr. Pat Lynch "Empowered for Proclamation" Wed Jan 24th 10am - 12noon - Frank Tassone FM!. "New Hope, New Nation" 1pm - 3pm - Fr. Gino Henriques "Vision, Planning & Strategy" Thur Jan 25th 10am- 12noon - Eddie Russell FM!. "Malachi 3" 1pm - 3pm - Rev. Dr. Russell Sage "Called To Mission" Fri Jan 26th 10am- 12noon - Frank Tassone FM1 "Warrior or Wimp" 1pm - 3pm - Fr. Pat Lynch. "To The Victor Goes The Crown" Sat Jan 27th 9am - Rev. Dr. Russell Sage "Understanding The Anointing" llam - Rev. Dr. Russell Sage "Walking In The Anointing" 2pm - Fr. Pat Lynch. "Forming Strong Leaders" 4pm - Fr. Pat Lynch. "Models Of Leadership" Sun Jan 28th 2pm - Fr. Gino Henriques "20th Century Disciples" 4pm - Fr. Gino Henriques "Transformed In Christ" REGISTRATION FEES *** All daily sessions for the entire week = $100 * ** Earlybird Discount for payment on or before Jan 1st 1996 = $90 *** Pensioners/Unemployed/Students = $65 *** Single Sessions = $8 per session. * ** You can register on the day, but due to limited

seating it is advisable that you do so early to guarantee your seat at the evening sessions. Please send our Cheque/Mone Order to.

Flame Ministries International PO BOX 8133 Subiaco 6008

For Brochure or Enquires Phone

(09) 382 3668 Today Tfreke

r'd,i/i.C'ehliber20,199& 9

* 31orti to God . . . 00

Once Iwas a child, but now.. By Mary Clark

s a young child I used to eagerly await every Christmas to see how generous Santa would be when my pile of presents were emptied from his sack. Nothing was more important to me than the amount of presents I would receive at Christmas time.

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In the weekly countdown to Christmas, I used to quietly tiptoe towards the Christmas tree and gingerly feel every present that had my name on it - if that failed I would hold it up to the light and see if any clues would be given or ifIcould see through the wrapping paper. But, as years passed and Santa was no longer a reality, I learned to appreciate the joy of giving from the heart rather than dwelling on the number of presents I would receive. Looking at a Christmas tree, I notice that the most significant and outstanding ornament lies at the very top of the tree amidst the jingle and jangle of crowding tinsel and shiny bells. For most, this ornament is an angel or a shiny star, and great care is taken in placing the object. This one symbol of decoration represents the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of Jesus Christ. Caught up in the hustle and bustle of every day festive activity, it is so easy to neglect what it is that Christmas is all about. Lately, however - I have learned to appreciate the value of attending Mass on Christmas day. Whilst we are all so busy showering each other with gifts and hospitality - our guest of honour could be outside, patiently knocking and waiting for someone to open the door. To me, all Jesus wants each and every time we celebrate His birth, is for us to give Him our time, our thoughts, our spirit and our every action

/AMIC

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11104

Christmas is about giving from the heart and not from the mind. It is about putting others before yourself through generous hospitality and kind deeds, it is about letting others know through you how truly special and unique they are in their talents and attributes - the way of Christ. Above all, Christmas is to me a time for love, peace, happiness and understanding. It is about letting go of all past mistakes and looking forward, reaching out to world full of possibility and promise. By lending someone your heart and thoughts each Christmas, you can help the world to realise that through poverty, war, famine, sickness and loneliness - no one should be left alone for everyone is special, not only at Christmas time, but each and every day of the year.

The Record,Vecemboo 2go lab

outh reflects on Christmas igo

Heavenly confusion reveals meaning By Alyson Chalon esus. We hear that name spoken every day. We hear it as a sigh of exasperation from the weary worker edw. o just got told he had to stay in till the assignment was completed. We hear it in the football coach's angry shout of disbelief after the umpire's call. We hear it as an exclamation of praise and thanks in the Christian student who received good exam results. And sometimes, if we listen carefully, we hear it in the gentle, silent calling of our hearts. Jesus. The name has such a familiar resonance, doesn't it? You would have to look pretty hard in our culture to find somebody who hadn't heard it. Even in Jewish culture, two thousand years ago, the name 'Jesus' was very common. Thousands of little boys got baptised with that name. There was nothing unique about it, nothing special, nothing out-of-this-world about it. No, nothing really spectacular about it at all. But then again, there wasn't anything special about a little manger, held together by hay in the corner of a dull, dingy inn stable. There wasn't anything unique about a little donkey who carried a pregnant young virgin from Nazareth to Bethlehem under the watchful eye of her carpenter husband. Except for one thing. God used them all to create the greatest event in history, the event in which the Son of God became the Son of Man, so that through him our relationship with God would be

restored and our fellowship with Him would be eternal. God chooses the simple things of this world to confound the wise. He knew that by sending a little baby into the world in a little stable in some remote, inconspicuous town he was going to upset a few myths about what it takes to be a Messiah. He knew that there would a little bit of confusion about a virgin birth. And he knew that the world could never have begun to imagine how any of the events that happened that first Christmas night would become the preface to our salvation. But to God it was all so simple. The only thing he wanted was restored rela-

tionship with his children. The only way he could do it was if he became one of us. So God gave his only Son so that we may believe and have eternal life. Christmas is the season for decorations and celebrations. Its the season when everybody seems to have a twinkle in their eyes and a smile on their face. But more than that, its the best time of year for us to remember. To remember the little baby who grew up to sacrifice his life for us, to remember the God who sent him, and to remember that because of the life of one and the love of the other, we are destined for an eternal life, where every day will feel like all our Christmases have come at once!!

Reflection is a a challenge By YCS workers Carla Lynx and Margaret Maasson hen reflecting with students

It was always exciting, but now its profound By Jason Duff

t's that lime of year again. The Christmas decorations have been up in the city for over a month now, and stores have been advertising Christmas sales since mid-October. The world is gearing up for the holiday festivities. Christmas is rightly a lime to celebrate and be joyful...to party on. It is, after all, the anniversary of the birth of the most influential man in history. If Jesus had not been born, His death and resurrection might have been a little difficult to achieve. So what does the birthday of the Son of God mean to me, someone living 2000 years later? Christmas has always been an exciting time for me. When I was little, the joy of receiving so many new things was great, but somehow I always felt as if there was something more to Christmas than just getting presents and spending lunch and dinner with different members of my family, but it was something that I couldn't quite lay my finger on. On the night of the very first Christmas, the choir of angels that spoke to the shepherds proclaimed "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace to men of goodwill...". For me, this is where the meaning of Christmas lies. In the first place, Christmas is a time for me to give glory to God for the greatest gift of all,

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Jesus, and secondly, when I wake every Christmas morning there is this very deep and profound sense of utter peace that descends over me, no matter how I felt the night before. Ills this peace of God that makes Christmas so special to me. Christmas is a time to celebrate and to be filled with joy. To quote Psalm 118, "This is the day the Lord has made, let us be glad and rejoice!"

about Christmas we are reminded of the wide range of ideas, feelings, opinions and attitudes that people have around this special time. Some look forward to holidays from school, others look forward to earning some money, some look forward to spending time with family and friends, while still others dread the idea of so much time on their hands. However, when asked about what they see as the Good News of the Saviour being born delivered by the Angel to the Shepherds in Luke: Ch 2 the range of ideas are not so wide. Most students see Christmas Day as a time to slow down and do some serious thinking: A time to spend with others but also a time to spend with themselves, just thinking about the good times they have experienced over the year and also to think about the coming year. They find it is a time when they reflect on the relevance of the birth of Christ in their past year. Some believe it is a time when they realise Jesus has been with them, even at times when they felt most alone and did not remember his presence. It is a time of remembering remembering the truth of the Good News and a chance to share that feeling of being loved that comes from remembering. This Christmas Carla and I would like to share with all students and past YCS workers the wonderful and special joy that comes from the knowledge of the Saviour's unconditional love for each one of us each moment of our lives. We wish you all a joyful and loving

***

@lop to Ood . . . pouth rEflects on Christmas igo

When a terrorist spilled his marbles By Clare Pike o some the meaning of I Christmas never changes. To the atheists, Christmas is presents, snow, trees, lights, turkey, bonbons, Saint Nicholas or Father Christmas, new unseen TV commercials and `relly bashes.' To the Christian, I believe Christmas follows faith. As our faith grows and deepens the true meaning of Christmas is revealed. As a naive child, I lived for the latest Barbie and marvelled at the process by which grown-ups could drink red drink just like my red cordial and suddenly behave differently with obnoxious laughs and silly grins. It's at this stage that the presents - Barbies, toy cars, colouring-in books etc. were taken to Church on Christmas to keep me occupied. The priest was too boring and the only eye catchers were the candles you had to pay 20 cents to light or the baby Jesus figurines, in the tiny stable on the altar that were screaming to all the kids in the entire congregation to run up and break them. But as time passes, things change. I no longer just wanted Barbie . but I needed all her accessories too, which then meant her hot pink Ferrari, (but nowadays it means the whole house - even the kitchen sink!). Then, like every other 4 year old kid in the world,I got my first bike, fully equipped with training wheels, the first present to last longer

then 5 minutes! Now I could help put up ter's lop-sided angel (I think her lop the Christmas tree (rather then trying to sided Angel). I was lucky that at this dismantle it by eating all the decora- stage I got involved in Church, singing in tions) Relatives became more familiar, I choirs and enjoying the Gospel about tried remembering The Twelve days of Jesus' birth, enthralled that strangers Christmas song, but still God got no could give Jesus precious gifts like Gold, I began to realise that God must be appreciation or thanksgiving In primary school we started to give important and thus my faith began to back. Enthusiastic teachers allowing grow. At this stage my family was growing pupils to make crafty Christmas things. For me this was a red painted Christmas pretty fast too! When I hit high school I tree, with glitter (I took it home to finish, had six younger brothers and sisters! used an excessive amount of super glue Boy did Christmas become exciting. which stuck to my mum securely on Three years ago my brother got what Christmas eve). Of course I insisted it seemed like thousands of marbles, and be placed on the top of the Christmas these ventured to mass with us. That tree, it had to compete against my sis- night we sat in the front row and during

Family and rebirth shortcircuit crass commercialism greatest gift I could ever receive - Jesus Christ - I feel so grateful and an overwhelming sense of being loved when I realise just how precious that gift is.

By Karina Barnes

October round thoughts of "The Christmas season is just around the corner" start forming and my first reaction is one of dread. I cannot be bothered with all the commercialism: ads on TV, endless sales , carols that drive you nuts in the shopping centres, and all the hype which seems to smother the true meaning of what Christmas is all about. It saddens me to think that so many people celebrate it not knowing the Truth and the consequences of this ll'uth. I am not saying that they should not celebrate it Christmas can be a time which fosters a great sense of family. It has always been a time of family for me It is the only time in the year when my whole fam-

This is the best reason I have to celebrate and why Christmas is such a special time for me.

By Barry Newman

t's not always easy to remember exactly why we celebrate Christm-

as. Easter is easy - Christ died for our sins, and rose again to open the gates of heaven etc. How does Christmas affect us. though? Okay, we

all know the story back to front but what does it mean? For me,I need to sit back and reflect on the couple of thousand years before Christ, to really understand how important Christmas is. The God the Jews worshipped was a far off, fearinspiring God. They lived under hundreds of rules and regula-

tions, seeking to please God and avoid his vengeance, all the time waiting and waiting for the promised one who would come and teach them how to live. I don't have to live that sort of life.I live a life with Jesus, not waiting and hoping for him. And that is worth celebrating!

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Catholic Youth & Young Adult Office wish all readers a

Blessed and joyful Christmas

•

For you and those you help and love Vatican Rosary Beads blessed by Pope John Paul 11

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.41

A beautiful gift for First Reconciliation, First Communion, C onfirmation, Christmas and Birthdays. Over 100,000 people in Russia have requested Rosary Beads. They are unable to pay for them. Requests continue to come in great numbers. People who suffered so grievously under Communism ask us for Rosary Beads and religious literature to help them to pray and to know more about God. Will you please help them?

May you have a Merry and Blessed Christmas.

I don't want a far-off God for me

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from the

"For God so loved the world so much that he gave His only Son so that everyone who believes in Him may not die but have eternal life" (John 3 : 16). ily gets together, and now is a particularly exciting time with new additions bringing extra joy, especially to new grandparents and great-grandparents. me, for However, way goes Christmas beyond this. It is the season of rebirth, renewing faith and being reminded of how blessedI am to havqeen given the

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The Staff and Volunteer workers

I believe this is what our Father intended:

It is through this great love that we experience new life , and it is through living this new life that we come to know more and more how rare and valuable this gift God's own Son is.

the communion when everybody was silent and praying, he conveniently dropped the whole bag all over the wooden seats. It sounded like a machine gun and even the priest stopped to see if we were being invaded by terrorists. There is never a dull moment in the Pike house. Now things have changed I look forward to the possibility of reading at Mass,Ilisten attentively to the Gospel of the Lord for ways in which to improve my faith in Jesus and share my love of God with others. Catholic Youth Conventions, Antioch, school and my family have challenged commercial ideas and have taught me the true meaning of Christmas - that its the one day of the year when God shouldn't have to work and where we should go out of our way to thank him for everything he has done for us. It's God's birthday and rather than counting all the presents we receive, we should be counting the times we have tried to be like Jesus or even the number of times we have tried to do something good for him. Now I also take the time out to see how Christmas effects others, whether it be Mum running around trying to do everything or Dad sitting back and criticising the way people treat Christmas. I have also learnt to take pleasure in watching my seven younger brothers and sisters grow and learn to love God especially on this one day- his birthday!

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Your $10 donation provides:

Two Rosary Beads and two Rosary Booklets for people in Russia requesting blessed by them. You will receive a Rosary Booklet and Vatican Rosary Beads Pope John Paul II. by The Rosary Campaign was launched in Moscow on October 13th, 1992 Father Werenfried van Stratten, the founder of Aid to the Church in Need. It the Russia, of tion asks people to pray the Rosary for the re-evangelisa conversion of the materialistic West, and for reconciliation between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. Aid to the Church in Need is practically the only Catholic organisation whose primary aim is to assist the Church where it is in great need of help. It is a Universal Public Association within the Catholic Church approved by the Holy See. • ••••••••••ame••••••••••••••••••• • Cheques payable to: AID to the CHURCH IN NEED, (Est. 1947), • P.O. Box 11, Eastwood, 2122. Phone & Fax: (02) 679 1929. • National Director, Mr. P. Collignon. • to help supply Rosary Beads and I/we enclose cheque for $ copy/ies ▪ booklets to people affected by Communism. Please send me . II of the Rosary Booklet "We fly to Thy Patronage 0 Holy Mother of God" PR -2 Vatican Rosary Beads. • and •

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Rey

•

( Please print clearly)

Address Postcode • • • • •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

4/1111 Wood, Clecembow 2/t MI5 '14

Sunday Mass Timetable GERALDTON DIOCESE All times are regular for each Sunday unless otherwise noted. Sunday of the month Albany (H/Family)

1st

2nd 3rd Sundays 9.30am, Saturdays 6pm

Albany (St Joseph)

Sundays 730am

Arthur River

8.30am

Augusta

Sun Barn

Australind

Saturdays 6pm, Sundays 9am

Balingup

10.30am

4th

5th

Cathedral; 730, 9.30am; 6pm; Sat 7pm. Rangeway: 8.30am; 5.45pm. Bluff Point: 9am, 5.30pm; Sat. 6.30pm. Wonthella: 730am.

10.30am

Boddington

8am

Borden

8.30am

Boyanup

10am

Boyup Brook

Sundays 9am

Bremer Bay

Sat 6pm

Bridgetown

Sundays 8.30am

Broomehill

Sundays 8am

Brunswick

10am

Bunbury (St Patrick's) Bunbury (St Mary's)

Sundays 730am (Apr-Sep 10am), 6 pm; Sat 6pm

Bunbury (Carey Park) Busselton

Sundays 8.30am

Capel

10am

Collie

Sun 8, 10am, (Nov-Mar Z 9am); Saturdays 7pm

8.30am

Sat 6pm

8.30am

10am

8.30am

10am

Sundays 8am (Italian), 9.30am Sundays 10am. Saturdays 7pm 8.30am

Condingup

9am

Coomalbidgup

9am

8.30am

Cranbrook

6.30pm

Dardanup

Sundays 9am; Saturdays 7pm

11am

6.30pm

8.30am

11am

6.30pm

Denmark

8am

10am

8am

10am

8am

Donnybrook

8.30am

10am

Dumbleyung

8.30am

Dunsborough

Sundays 8am

Dwellingup Esperance

8.30am 8.30am Sundays 7, 9am; Saturdays 6.30pm

Frankland

5pm

Gardner River

8.30am

Grasspatch

10am

Greenbushes

10.30am

Harvey

8.30am

10am

Jerramungup

10.30am

Karridale

Sundays 8am

Katanning

Sundays 9.30am; Saturdays 7pm (Winter 6pm)

6pm.

10am 8.30am

10am

Kendenup

8.30am

6pm

Lake Grace

9am

Lake King

11am

Lake Varley

9am

10.45am

8.30am

10.45am

10am

Sat 7pm

8am

Sat 7pm

8am

6pm

10am

9am

11am Sundays 8, 9.30am; Sat's 7pm (Dec 26-Feb 7, add Sun 7pm)

Margret River

Sundays 9am; Saturdays 7pm Sundays 10am; Saturdays 5pm

Mount Barker

Saturdays 5pm, Sundays 10am (except 2nd & 4th Sun's: 8am)

Munglinup

Barn

Muradu

5pm

Nannup

Saturdays 6pm

Narrogin

Sundays 9.30am; Saturdays 6.30pm

Newdegate

Sat 6.30pm

Northcliffe

10.30am

Nyabing

11.15am

Ongerup

10.30am

Pemberton

Sundays 9am, Saturdays 730pm

10.30am

Pingaring

Fri 7pm

Pingrup

6.30pm

Pinjarra

Sundays 10am; Saturdays 7pm

Ravensthorpe

6pm

Salmon Gums

Sat 6pm 8.30am

Stirlings

8.30am

5pm

Tambellup Wagin

Sundays lOarn; Saturdays 6.30pm

Walpole

Sundays 11.45am

Waroona

8.30am

10am

Wellstead

Sat 6pm

8.30am

Wickepin

8am

10.45am

Williams Yarloop 12

South Hedland: 8.30, 10am; Sat. 7pm. Three Springs: 10am (1st, 2nd. 3rd, 5th) 8.30am (4th) Tom Price: 8am; Sat. 5pm. Wickham: 10am Yalgoo: 10.30am (1.3)

Saturdays 730pm

ICojonup (Sat's 6.30pm) 8.30am Kukerin Sat 7pm

Manjimup

Dampier: Sat. 5.30pm. Dongara: 9.30am. Enneabba: 8am. Exmouth: 6pm (2nd) Greenough 8am. Kalbarri: 5pm. Karratha: 9am; Sat. 7pm. Latham: 6pm (2nd) Laverton: Sat. 6pm (before 2nd. 4th, 5th Sun's). Leeman: 10am Leinster: 4.30pm (2nd), 11am (4th) Leonora: 9am (1st, 2nd, 5th Sun's). Meekatharra: Sat. 6.30pm (before 1st, 3rd Sun's). Mingenew: 6pm (1.3.5), Sat. 6pm (2.4). Mt Magnet 10am (1st, 3rd Sun's). Morawa: flarn. Mullewa: Newman: 8.30am (2nd, 3rd. 4th, 5th) Sat 6.30pm (before 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th). Northampton: 8.00am; Sat. Paraburdoo: 10.30am. Perenjort Sat. 6pm Port Hedland: 8.30am: Sat.

12.30pm

Mandurah

Sat. 7pm.

Carnamah: 11.30am (4th). Coorow: 6pm (1st, 3rd)

6.30pm.

5pm

Gnowangerup

Kirup

Beachlands: 7.30am. Carnarvon: 8, 10am;

8.30am (2nd, 5th) 10am (4th) Cue: 8am (1st, 3rd.)

10.30am

8.30am

10.45am

8.30am

Ram

10am

The Record, December 20, 1995

8.30am

10am

8.30am

8am 10am

8.30am

10am

Saturday

GERALDTON:

Convenient phone numbers Perth (09) 325 9557 Armadale (09)399 2143 Fremantle (09)335 2268 Midland (091 274 1159 Mundaring (09) 295 1059 Rockingham (09) 527 1605 Rottnest (09)292 5052 Wanneroo (09)405 1110 Albany (098) 41 1129 Augusta (097) 58 1990 Bremer Bay (098) 37 4091 Broome (091) 92 1353 Bunbury (097) 21 2141 Busselton (097) 52 1687 Carnarvon (099) 41 1768 Derby (091) 91 1227 Esperance (090) 71 2091 Geraldton (099) 21 3221 Kalgoorlie (090) 21 2353 Karratha (091) 85 1443 Mandurah (09) 535 1847 Marg River (097) 57 2284 Meekatharra(099) 81 1120 Merredin (090) 41 1118 Mt Magnet (099) 63 4050 Newman (091) 75 1030 New Norcia (096) 54 8018 Northam (096) 225411 Pt Headland (091) 73 1687 South Cross (090) 49 1049 INTERSTICE: Adelaide (08)231 3551 Melbourne (03)662 2233 Sydney (02) 220 0400 Brisbane (07) 224 3361 Canberra (06) 295 9555 Darwin (089)81 2863

Metro

Wanneroo Whitfords Willagee Willetton

6.00PM Crawley(5.45) Balga Ballajura Bayswater Highgate Memiwa Mt Lawley Mt Yokine Nollarnara North Beach South Lake Woodvale

7PM Applecross Cloverdale Dianella East Fremantle Embleton Kelmscott Lesmurdie Rivervale Rottnest Rockingham South Perth Victoria Park Wilson

8.30PM Armadale Attadale Balcafta Bateman Beaconsfield Bedford Bentley Carlisle Cathedral City Beach Como Doubleview East Vic. Park Floreat Pk Fremantle Girrawheen Glendalough Gosnells Greerunount Greenwood Guildford Hamilton Hill Hilton Park Innaloo Joondanna Kalamunda Karrinyup Kwinana Leederville Lockridge Lynwood Maddington Maida Vale Manning Maylands Melville Midland Morley Mt Yokine Mosman Park Mundaring Nedlands Osborne Park Ocean Reef Palmyra Port Kennedy Redcliffe Riverton Scarborough Shenton Park Spearwood Subiaco Swanbourne Thornlie

Country

5PM Kalbarri Margaret River Mt Barker Tom Price 5.30PM Dampier

8 PM Albany Australind Bunbury Exmouth (2nd) Katanning (winter) Laverton Nannup 6.30PM Bluff Point Boulder Bullsbrook Cranbrook Esperance Kambalda Kojonup Meekatharra Moora Narrogin Newman Northampton Wagin 7PM Bindoon Busselton Carnarvon Collie Dardanup Geraldton Katanning (Summer) Mandurah Manjinup Merredin Pinjarra 7.30PM Kirup Pemberton (Summer)

Sun ay 5 PM Bedford Cathedral Cottesloe Fremantle Thornlie 5.30 PM City Beach Crawley (5.45) Doubleview Hilton North Beach Lesmurdie Wembley 6PM Applecross Armadale Balcatta

Balga Greenmount Kelmscott Maida Vale Midland Mirrabooka Monastery Morley Victoria Park

7.30 PM East Fremantle

Country 5 PM Kalbarri

8.30PM lnnaloo

7PM Beaconsfield Brentwood Claremont Riverton Rockingham Willagee (7.15)

5 30 PM Bluff Point Kalgoorlie Norseman Rangeway (5.45) 8PM Bunbury Geraldton

Sunday Mass Timetable ARCBDIOCESAN COUNTRY PARIS! SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

Badgingarra

5th

8.30am

Bakers Hill

10am

Ballidu

llam

9.30am

llamn

9.30am

11am

Beacon

6pm

8am

Sat 6pm

10.30am

8am

Bencubbin

Barn

7pm

10.30am

7pm

Beverley

Sundays 8am

Bindi Bindi

10am

Bindoon (Keaney)

Saturdays 7pm

Bolgart

8am

Boulder

Sundays 9am, Saturdays 6.30pm

Brookton

Saturdays 7pm

Sat 7pm

Brucerock

10am

Bullfinch

7pm

Bullsbrook

Sundays 9.30am

CaLingiri

10am

8am

Sat 7pm

10am

8am

7pm

9.30am

Coolgardie

Sundays 9am

Corrigin

8am

10.15am

Cunderdin

10am

6.30pm

10am

6.30pm

Sat 6.30pm

Dalwallinu

11am

Dandaragan

8am

Dowerin

Sat 6pm

Dudinin

10am

llam Sat 6pm

10.15am

Gillingarra

8.30am

Gingin

Sat 6pm

10am

Sat 6pm

Sat 7pm

8am

Guilderton

noon long weekends and school holidays

Herne Hill

Sundays 8am

Hyden

10.30am

jeimacubbine

Sat 7pm

8am

10am

jmien

4th Sunday 11am, Cervantes 1st Sun 10.30am

Kalannie (Ang. ch)

9am

Kalgoorlie

Sundays 8am, 10am, 5.30pm

Kambalda

Sun's 9am, Sat's 6.30pm; Norseman Sun's 5.30pm

Karlgarin Kellerberrin

9am

Sat 7pm 8am

Sat 6.30pm 8am

Kondinin Koorda Kuhn

9am

Sat 6.30pm 6.30pm 8am

10.30am

7pm

Sat 7pm

8am

Sat 7pm

10.15am

Sat 7pm

Lancelin

5pm long weekends and school holidays

Leonora/Laverton

Every third Sunday. Notices posted.

Marvel Loch Merredin

7pm

Sundays 8.30am, Saturdays 7pm

Milling Moora

Sat 7pm

8am

10am

Sat's: 6.30pm; Sun's: (1st & 4th) 6.30pm: (2nd & 5th) 8am: (3rd) 10am

Moorine Rock

10am

8am

Mt Hampton

10.30am

Mt Walker

6pm

Mukinbudin

Sat 7pm

Muntadgin

7pm

Narembeen

Sat 7pm

New Norcia Abbey

9am every Sunday

10am

10.30am

7pm

8am

10.30am

8am

Sat 7pm

10am

Sat 7pm

Northam

all Sundays 8am, 6.30pm

Nungarin

10.15am

Pingelly

all Saturdays 6pm

Quairaiding

8am

Southern Cross

Sundays 8.30am, Saturdays 6.30pm

Sat 6pm

Tatmnin

7pm

Toodyay

Saturdays 6.30pm

Trayning

Sat 6.30pm 10.15am

Watheroo

6pm

Westonia

10.45am

Wongan Hills

Sat 6pm

Wundowie

10am

Wyalkatchem

10am

8am

10am 7am

Sat 6pm 8pm

10am 8am

Sat 6.30pm 10.15am

10.15am

10.45am

Sat 6pm

8am

Balcatta: 730, 9, 10.30 (It) am, 6pm, 7pm (Cr); Sats. 6.30pm (See also Gwelup.) Balga: 8, 9.30am, 6pm; Sat 6pm. North Balga: (Majella): 9am. Ballajura: 8, 9.30am, 5pm; Sat 6pm. Bassendean: Z 9, 10.30am. Bateman: 8, 9.30, llam; Sat 6.30pm. Bayswater 730, 9.30am Sat. 6pm. Beaconsfield: Z 8.30, 10am, 7pm; Sat. 6.30pm. Bedford: 10.15am, 5pm; Sat. 6.30pm. Belmont: 10am. Bentley: 730. 9.30am; Sat 6.30pm. Brentwood: 9, iiam, 7pm (See Willetton) Bullsbrook: 9am: Gingin: Sat. 6.30pm. • Carina: 8.15am. Carlisle: 8, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Carmel Nedlands: iiam. Chidlow: 730am. City Beach: 8. 9.30am, 5.30pm; Sat. 6.30pm. Claremont: 730. 9.30am, 7pm.

Clarkson: 8.30am. Cloverdale: 8, 9.30am; Sat. 7pm. Coolbellup: 10am. Como: gam; Sat. 6.30pm. Cottesloe: 10am. 5pm. Crawley: (St. Thos. More) 10.30am. 5.45pm; Sat 5.45pm. Dianella: 730. 9.30, 10.45am; Sat. 7pm. Doubleview: 8, 10am, 5.30pm; Sat. 6.30pm. Dwellingup: 9.30am East Cannington: 9.30am. East Fremantle: 730, 9.30am, 730pm; Sat 7pm East Perth: 9.30am. East Victoria Park 730, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Embleton: 730, 9am; Sat. 7pm. Floreat: 8.30am: Sat. 6.30pm. Fremantle: Z 8.30, 9.45 (It), llam, 5pm; Sat. 6.30pm.

Glendalough: 8, 9.30am: Sat. 6.30pm. Girrawheen: 8, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Gosnells: 730, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm Greenmount: 730, 9, 10.30am (Pol), 6pm; Sat. 6.30pm. Greenwood: 7.30, 9, 10.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Guildford: 7.30, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm Gwelup: 11am

Sat 6pm

10am 8am

Sat 7pm

flam

Yealering

11am

Yerecoin

9.30am

York

10am

Applecross: 730, 9.30am, 6pm; Sat. 7pm. Attadale: 730, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Armadale: 730, 9.30am, 6pm; Sat. 6.30pm.

Sundays 10am

10am

Hamilton Hill: (Port) 8am, (Eng) 9.30am, (Port) llam; Sat. (Eng) 6.30pm. Herne Hill: 8am. Highgate: 8.30, 10am (It), 5.30pm (Viet); Sat. 6pm.

Hilton: 730, 9am, 5.30pm; Sat 6.30pm. Hollywood Repat: 8am. Inglewood: 8.30am. Innaloo: 730, 9.30arn, 6.30pm. Joondanna: 730, 9am; Sat 6.30pm.

Scarborough: 730, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. St Cath. Laboure: 8.30am. Serpentine: 9am. Shenton Park 10.30am; Sat. 6.30pm South Lake: 8, lOarn; Sat. 6pm South Perth: 730, 9.30am; Sat. 7pm Spearwood: 8, 10am; Sat. 6.30pm

Kalamunda: 730, 9am; Sat. 6.30pm. Karragullen: 9.30am. Karrinyup: 730. 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Kelmscott: 8, 10am, 6pm; Sat 7pm.

Kensington: 730, 9.30am. Kwinana: 730, 9.30am; Sat 6.30pm. Hope Valley: 6.30pm. Wattelup: 9am. Leederville: 8, 9.15 (It), 10.30am; Sat 6.30pm. Lesmurdie: 8, 9.30am, 5.30pm; Sat. 7pm. Lockridge: 8, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Lynwood: 730, 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Maddington: 730, 9am; Sat. 6.30pm. Maida Vale: 8. 9.30am, 6pm; Sat. 6.30pm. Manning: 7.30, 9am; Sat. 6.30pm. Maylands: 8.30. 10am; Sat. 6.30pm. Melville: Itam: Sat. 6.30pm. Midland: 9.30am, 6pm, Sat. 6.30pm.

Mirrabooka: (See Balga.) Monastery: 7. 9. 10.30am, 6pm. Morley: 7.30, 8.45, 10.15am, 11.30am (It), 6pm; Sat. 8.30am. 6.30pm. Mosman: 8.30am; Sat. 6.30pm. Mt Lawley: 8. 9.30am; Sat. 6pm. Mundaring: 9.15am; Sat. 6.30pm Merriwa: 8.30am: Sat. 6pm Nedlands: 8. 9.30am; Sat. 6.30pm.

North Beach: 8, 10am, 5.30pm; Sat. 6pm. North Fremantle: 8am (Eng), 10am (Croat) Nollamara: 8, 10am; Sat. 6pm Osborne Park 8.30, 10am (It); Sat. 6.30pm. Ocean Reef: 8, 10am; Sat. 6.30pm.

Palmyra: 730. 9.45am, Sat. 6.30pm. Perth (Cathedral): 730, 9, 10, 11.30am, 5pm; Sat. 6.30pm Port Kennedy: 9am; Sat 6.30pm.

Redcliffe: 8am; Sat. 6.30pm Riverton: 730, 9am, 7pm; Sat. 6.30pm Rivervale: 730, 9.30am, Sat. 7pm Rockingham: 8. 9.30am, 7pm: Sat. 7pm Rossmoyne: 9am Rottnest: 8am; Sat. 7pm

St Mary's CathedraL (See Perth). Subiaco: 8, 10am; Sat. 6.30pm. Swanbourne: 8.30am; Sat. 6.30pm Thornlie: 730, 9.30am, 5pm: Sat. 6.30pm • Victoria Park 745, 9 (It), 10.15am, 6pm; Sat. 7pm. Wanneroo: 730, 9am; Sat 6.30pm Wembley: 730, 9.30am; 5.30pm. West Perth: 8.30, 10am (It). 11.30am (Pol); Sat. 6.30pm (Sp) Whitfords: 8, 9.30, llam; Sat. 6.30pm Willagee: 7, 9am; 7.15pm; Sat. 6.30pm Willetton: 730. 9, 10.30am: Sat. 6.30pm. Wilson: 9.30am; Sat. 7pm Woodvale: 8. 9.30am: Sat. tipm Yanc.hep: llarn. •.. DEAF Mass: Joondanna: Sat. 6.30pm; Fremantle: 5pm ITALIAN Mass: Balcatta: 10.30am. Morley: 11.30am. Fremantle:9.45am. West Perth: 10am. Highgate: lOarn. Leederville: 9.15am. Bassendean: (1st Sun) 7.30pm. Osborne Park 10am. Victoria Park 9am. Bunbury: (St Mary's) Barn. Midland: 11am (1st). UKRAINIAN Mass: Maylands: 9.30am. POLISH Mass: Maylands Polish Church: 8,9.30am, 7pm. West Perth: 11.30am. Fremantle: (1st) 12 noon Northam: (2nd) llam. Collie: (3rd) llam. Bunbury: (3rd) 4.30pm. MALTESE Mass: Bassendean: (2nd) 6pm. PORTUGUESE Mass: Hamilton Hill: 8am. 5pm VIETNAMESE Mass: Highgate: 5.30pm. Mt Lawley: 8am, 10am. Girrawheen: Sat. 8pm. CROATIAN Mass: North Fremantle: 10am. Bassendean: (1st) 4pm. Balcatta: 12 noon. Midland: (2nd & 3rd) fiam SPANISH Mass: Tuart Hill: 12 noon West Perth: Sat. 6.30pm

The Record, December 20, 1995

C31org to Ood . . . Christmas )995

Pakistani Christmas celebrations brings out the authentic meaning Christmas Mass in Pakistan - an experience unlike any other

bout three hours after time in Australia. A few of the Midnight Mass in large store in big cities do Perth, the Mass of have small sections catering Christmas night will be cele- to the Christmas needs of brated by Catholics in expatriates. Pakistan. On Christmas Eve there In this country of 130 mil- may be fifteen to twenty minlion people only 1.5% are utes of radio time devoted to Christian; of that group about what we call traditional a quarter are Catholic. Christmas music. Catholics are a tiny minority St John of God Sisters in of the Population. Pakistan celebrate Christmas It is interesting to note that according to the customs and the term "Catholic" is not needs of the local people. At used very often in Pakistan. first it "all seemed so very Christians of all faith groups different and unfamiliar: in simply call themselves fact it didn't feel like "Christian.". Christmas!" Even though there are relaWith the passage of time tively few Christians in and adjustment to Pakistan. Pakistan. there is a long his- the Sisters now say that tory of Christianity with a tra- "Christmas celebrated in dition dating back to the Pakistan is more authenticalApostle St Thomas. ly a celebration of the An ancient church tradition Incarnation than any other" tells us that, after the first celebration of the season Pentecost, the disciples of they have known. Jesus divided the world of The absence of the celebrathose days into parts, and tion of Christmas and the each disciple was allocated a material hype surrounding section as his special evan- the season, familiar to us gelical responsibility. here in Australia. means that St. Thomas. the tradition all attention is put on the says went to India and what spiritual and religious celewe now know as Pakistan. bration of the Birth of Jesus. Without contacts and some Christmas for Pakistani direction one would have a Christians is a time of difficult time finding a intense joy and awareness of Catholic Church in Pakistan. the mystery of God's coming In fact it is difficult to find among us as a human baby. much evidence that It is only in the Church December 25 is Christmas buildings that decorations Day. are used for Christmas. It is There are no public decora- not usual for families to dections and none of the com- orate their homes. All effort is mercial trappings that are put into decorating the familiar to us at Christmas- Church inside and outside.

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Streamers and balloons are usual decorations inside the Church. Outside there are lights and colourful banners in great profusion. Pakistani people have a wonderful sense of colour and bright fabrics characterise all festival occasions. "The whole church compound and the church itself is a sea of colours that is a sight to behold" according to Sr Michelle McHale. If the Church has a Crib, the figures are most likely to be identical with the figures familiar to us here in Australia, but the arrange-

very poor. So, the exchange of gifts has not become common Pakistani among Christians. Christmas Cards are usually sent to family and friends. All effort is put into the provision of new clothing for the family, especially the children; these are worn with great delight and pride at Midnight Mass. Fruit and small cakes or biscuits serve as presents at any party occasion that might be arranged. St John of God communities usually arrange a party for the local children and at Salloda the

Celebrations without the commercialism - true happiness speaks

ment of the Crib and its decoration will reflect the customs of the locality. Christmas-time occurs during Pakistan's winter, it is usually cold, and often there are bitterly cold desert winds blowing across the land. Christians in Pakistan are usually from the less well off and are more likely to be

children of hospital staff. However, there is no official (or unofficial) resistance or obstruction to Christians celebrating Christmas in Pakistan. Christians experience difficulty, or a sense of minority because they make up such a small proportion of the population, Christmas but

Midnight Mass is a particular occasion for interaction between Muslim traders and Catholics. After Mass on Christmas night it is usual to rind the local street vendors have set up stalls in the Church grounds. There they sell all sorts of food, it is prepared. cooked, sold, and eaten there. Also on sale are trinkets, jewellery of every type and clothing for the "really last minute Christmas shoppers" That few hours surrounding Midnight Mass is the major time of Christmas festivities. the Dramatisation of Christmas story is often presented over the Christmas period. St John of God Sisters in Pakistan share the local Christmas celebrations and use traditional Pakistani festive foods for their Christmas dinner. Letters, cards and packets from home are the most relished part of the special recognition of Christmas. In the days between Christmas and New Year they arrange a party together with other expatriate missionaries and enjoy the Aussie contents of Christmas packages. Just as they had to acquire a taste for Pakistani foods, our Pakistani Sisters have to acquire a taste for Australian foods - is apart from sweets. lollies and chocolates. It is also the custom that the local Bishop arranges a party for all the Religious and Priests of the diocese. Christmas in Pakistan is a time of deep religious experience for Christians but a time like any other, for the vast majority of the population.

So now you know where the angels come from

•

By Lynne Well

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The

o you know where the Christmas tree came from? Not just your tree, but the whole tradition of keeping a tree in the home at holiday time? Its roots are in Germany. Many Christmas traditions familiar to North Americans are originally German or from German-speaking countries. The yuletide song "Silent Night" was first "Stille Nacht,- written in German by a Swiss composer. The angels that grace many holiday greeting cards are from a German museum. And the tradition of putting up a decorated "tannenbaum," German for fir-tree, comes from the region as well. Germans bring the tree home just a few days before Christmas and usually decorate it on December 24. Decorations range from simple candles and carved wooden figures to the flashier plastic and glass ornaments often found on North American Christmas trees. The time to exchange presents is

ib45

Christmas Eve. In some homes, children are told that the gifts were brought by the Christ Child. Other presents are delivered early in Advent by St Nicholas, forefather of the modern-day Santa Claus. In many households, children are taught to put an empty shoe on the doorstep overnight, and the next day they find it filled with candy. Germany is also home to a painting featuring two pudgy, pensive-looking angels, currently in vogue, which decorate holiday greeting cards. Resting on their arms and glancing heavenward, they have become wellknown worldwide and are often reproduced out of context, to the irritation of art scholars. The two figures are featured at the bottom of "The Sistine Madonna," painted by the Italian artist Raphael in 1512-13. The painting is in the possession of the Zwinger museum in Dresden. Ninety percent of the canvas is occupied by the Madonna and Christ Child and two saints. But it is the angels who get the most attention and are reproduced on T-shirts, posters and cards.

The decoration of the Christmas tree has its roots in German traditions

@tory to (3od

Thristmas igqi

A woman of reconciliation looks back on a fruitful life efeg,

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Colleen McGuiness-Howard lizabeth Durack, is a genteel lady of charm, and an artist of renown, whose background and artistic landscape is the vast, wondrous Kimberley. It's her canvas if you like, with the people sketched in representing their place in this timeless land, while her palette colours reflect the depth and richness of God's masterly creation she seeks to reproduce. They're a dark brown people, some almost ebony black, who were similarly nourished by the same Mother Earth that she was. Her name is synonymous with education, culture, fame, and uniquely Western Australian attributes epitomised by the famous Durack family. She is warm and approachable and it's this identification with humanity which has made her art so appealing, and herself so accessible to the Aboriginal people, as was her famous sister, the late Dame Mary Durack. Elizabeth, like her sister, through tribal kinship affiliation is a 'mother' to Aboriginal elder Jeff Chanuma of the Warrangari community, with whom she is bonded by affection and tribal lore, and whom she takes great pleasure in seeing at least twice a year during her Kimberley visits. In fact, Jeff as a young boy Is on the right in the photo' which was taken on Christmas Day 1935. In the general celebrations, the children decided to paint themselves as part of the fun. as depicted here, and a beast had been killed and cut for them and their families as part of the feasting. Christmas Day in the Kimberley? Vivid memories came flooding back to Elizabeth. This particular photo' was taken Christmas Day 1935 on Ivanhoe Station which was a million acres and part of the vast Durack holdings which embraced also the huge stations of Argyle, Newry. Auvergne and Bullita. which at one stage totalled seven million acres, taking their enterprises as far as the Northern Territory border.

Today Kununurra rests on the site of the former Ivanhoe station. When the station manager of Ivanhoe became sick, (never to return), Elizabeth and Mary went up to manage the station, which meant organising the mustering, provisioning and running the household. Without 'phone or radio contact, the two teenagers were in charge for three years, during which time their extended family were the Aboriginal workers and their families who lived on the station. This meant being invited to their corroborees, sacred rituals, on their walkabouts, picnicking, and enjoying life together. Christmas on the station. Elizabeth related, was eagerly anticipated by the Aboriginal people and 'next to the race meeting - it was the biggest festival of the year in the old station program, with participation by black employees and the whites." A beast was always killed for the Aboriginals attached to the station, because the Durack family always cared for their workers and their dependants, "this period in 1935 is looked on by the old Aboriginals as the golden age," noted Elizabeth. Along with the presents of new clothes for the Aboriginals. a sports meeting was held with foot races and jumping on the flat before lunch with prizes and gifts to follow. "Aboriginal sports were always a big feature throughout the Australian outback." recalled Elizabeth, "and Christmas was at a convenient time because the working season was over and it was the beginning of the wet season, so everyone was in the mood to relax." The station Aboriginals were full blood tribal people who lived traditional lives, so with branding and mustering cattle in the dry season over, in the wet they practiced their traditional law, such as Initiating their young men. Time spent with the Aboriginals has always been a two-way process for Elizabeth and, in her field of art, there has been a strong interchange and influences

Jeff Chanuma, right, as a young boy on Ivanhoe station In 1935

Elizabeth Durack with her painting War and Peace painted on the banks of the Ord River

between herself, the art of the Aboriginals, and notably her artist friend "Old Jubbul" a Northern Territorian Aboriginal with whom she would exchange ideas, especially when painting in the bush studio she'd built on the banks of the Ord River. It was during this period that she produced on worn canvas swags. her large. powerful images. Using knowledge and a story fund passed on by jubbul, along with bark painting techniques. Elizabeth produced the 'Cord to Alcheringa' series in 1953. using natural ochres, feathers and pigments, in order to convey the Aboriginal spirituality and cultural strength. as well as capturing their ceremonies and beliefs which had begun to die out. Not only the Kimberley however, attracted her because with the fifties behind her, Elizabeth moved around the eastern goldfields, capturing Aboriginal camp life, and also their graphic deprivation and desolation, producing the 'Rim. the rim of our brittle and disintegrating world' series of the seventies, revealing the upheaval and change in contemporary life which usurped "sense and knowledge." Her father Michael, son of the famous Patsy Durack who spearheaded the shift to the West which saw a threeyear-trek with 8,000 head of cattle over to the Kimberley from Queensland in the 1880s, took the young Elizabeth to the sites of the now famous Aboriginal rock paintings for which the Kimberley is renowned. These left a marked impression on Elizabeth and her own works became unique in Australian art, because of the links between the Aboriginal world and white western society She recalls the magic of viewing a gallery of Aborigi-

nal rock paintings on the Keep River in WAs north. For her part, she feels indebted to the Aborigines for the insights they gave her not only into their culture "but being able to read the world through other eyes." A two-way cultural link occurred. "I would like to think the body of my work has been part of the reconciliation process - and the ongoing affection with the few remaining people that I was associated with in the north would testify to this." Her work, she believes, has bridged the big social revolution of the last 30 years in black-white relationships. Entering the world of writing. Elizabeth, has written her Seeing through series of books with Illustra-

tions of New York. Nigeria, the Philippines. Indonesia and New Guinea. It's more than 60 years since Elizabeth took up her pencil and brush, and during this time she has done much to capture the length and breadth, smell and feel of the beauty, magnitude, and heartbeat of this Australia which has no parallels. As such she is leaving an enduring legacy for young Australians yet to come, showing a time, era, and affinity between Australia's first people, and the whites who followed, both with their own special story and magic, emerging from separate Dreamtimes, but under the brilliance of Australia's own Southern Cross.

EDMUND RICE (founder of Christian Brothers)

Rome 6 October BEATIFICATION Tentative Tours • • • •

Perth (4/10) - Rome - Perth (11/10) Perth (28/9) -Ireland - Rome Perth (11/10) Perth (28/9) - Ireland - Rome - Taize Perth (22/9) - Ireland - Lourdes Assisi - Rome (11/10) - Israel option - Perth IM.••

Expression of interest invited (No obligation)

Send stamped addressed envelope to "Edmund Tours" Box 106, Como WA 6152 _ The Record, December 20, 1995 15

opoy

@lop to Ood . . . Meditations for Thristmas iggi

The silent night urges self-surrender my Jesus I come to you bearing no gifts, no presents of wondrous colour nor of magical shapes. My hands are empty for Ihave little on this earth to call my own. In my heart there is growing a sorrow thatIhave nothing of worth to offer you. nothing to bring some sort of wonder to the mind of God, nothing to raise a loving smile on that heavenly face, nothing to gladden the precious heart of the Father. My Jesus, how I wish this were not so. How happy my spirit if I had the wisdom of Solomon. to turn my mind to know of that which might be worthy of Him who gave the gift of life and the gift of the earth. Many an hour have I spent in silent, yet broken, wonderment. that long ago the Son of God so loved his people that he became a man, that of such humble circumstances did this most perfect of humans and most incomprehensible Spirit walk among people, speak with them. teach them, endure the indignities of human action, whilst retaining the awesome power of God, the power of life, the power of death, the power of the beginning and the power of the end. To my mind, no greater empathy so privileged the earth as the human birth of Jesus. I have little knowledge of the realities of these things, of how they came to be. I do not know the circumstances as they truly occurred, for who knows where the legends end and the truth begins, but there is not the smallest seed of doubt in my mind that, as the history of the earth unfolded, there was a time when Jesus as God and Second Person of the Blessed Trinity became man. As my thoughts touch on these things, and struggle to comprehend them as much as it is possible for the mind of the human, there is a strong desire to repay the love for all people that was so powerfully displayed in the sacrifice of the cross. My LordI would give you my very life if it were possible, but, as I consider these things, it seems, to my dismay and frustration, that there is little you could want of me, me to whom you gave everything. What have I got that was not from you? DoInot eat the food and drink the water that is from the earth that is of your own making, and is not the soul that burns in this mind of mine from your own eternal being? Because of the directions of my thoughts, more and more I am beginning to feel a sense of isolation, or, perhaps, disillusionment, from this world at this time, when the exchanges of worldly goods take on their own momentum and come to mean more and say more than ever they are truly worthy of. Around me the clamour of celebration is ringing in my ears, and the noise and colour and confusion bears down more harshly with

•

•• ••••

16 The Record, December 20, 1995

How hard it is to stand done Thee when things are apart from the false spirit that this way, and what further is wrought by the material ingratitude displays itself exchanges of this season and when little more than feeble to stride off with the few in effort is shown in the cause deliberate search of the of change, in the cause for silence that allows thought of which Jesus was born and the cause for which he was the miracle of the holy birth. How difficult it is to resist so cruelly put to death. But I begin to feel somethe lure of the giving and the taking when the attraction of thing stirring in this weak these things is so strong that heart of mine. I believe that it blurs and deadens the com- there is a light in my coning of Jesus into a distant sciousness, and it suddenly begins to burn more brightly memory. How terrible a wrong is as my mind rests upon thoughts of this nature. Perhaps I have no goods worthy of heaven and of God himself, but, yes, there is something else! There is, and it is of value to him who gave the ultimate gift of life, of self-consciousness. This life that I live can be lived for another, and what greater reward that this be done on earth and with Jesus in heaven. Let the gifts and the presents play their part and bring their joy to whomever can feel joyous at them, and let the celebrations leave their own special memory. There ought to be no bitterness that this is so, that these things happen, except that they do not happen to all in some equal measure, for all things are from God and are to be shared in his name. How momentous is the voice Photo CNS/ C -aC Herald from the true Messiah. A mosaic of the Holy Family decorates the Holy Family Church in Citrus Heights, California. "Whatsoever is done unto the least of my people is done unto me." Who but God could so humble themselves in such measure so to become Jesus Christ. man and God? Not I. ("1hristmas is more than as we always should . . to always do good. But, I. I have a desire, no a a day But as soon as the tinsel We'd find the lost key mission indeed, that no at the end of the year, is stripped from the tree to meaningful living longer shall the holy birth be More than a season The spirit of Christmas That comes not from lost in the noise, in the buyof joy and good cheer, fades silently getting, ing and selling, in the false Christmas is really Into the background but from unselfish giving spirit that proclaims quantity God's pattern for living of daily routine And we'd know the great and physicality to surpass To be followed all year And is lost in the whirl joy goodness and intent. by unselfish giving . . . of life's busy scene, of peace upon earth Perhaps my mission may For the holiday season Which was the real purAnd all unawares never transcend my own little awakens good cheer we miss and forego pose of our Saviour's birth, world, my own little sphere And draws us closer The greatest blessing For in the glad tidings of influence and movement, to those we hold dear, that mankind can know. . of the first Christmas Night, and I may never completely And we open our hearts For if we lived Christmas God showed us the way, break the chains of this world and its worship of worldly and find it is Good each day, as we should, the truth and the light! goods, for my strongest To live among men And made it our aim Helen Steiner Rice chains are those which I not of binding me, but, ******************************************** iknow n my own way, the effort shall be made. That "Peace on earth and There were no haven for WHAT IS Yes, I feel stronger even his heart goodwill to all men" now, Just moments after CHRISTMAS? To calm his restlessness, Is still a promise establishing this small conThen life would be that man can claim Is it just a day viction in my mind and my intolerable If "he but seeks it in thy at the end of the year? life, that no longer shall the And loathsome with disname." A gay holiday filled Image of this season overgust, with merry good cheer? whelm the substance of it, For there would be no love I F THERE HAD A season for presents that no longer shall I allow at all, NEVER BEEN A these ears of mine to know both taking and giving? Just ugliness and lust the noise of the world whilst A time to indulge And there would be no CHRISTMAS allowing the memory and In the pleasures of living? Easter If God had never sent His voice of its creator to go Are we lost in a meaningAnd no resurrected Lord, Son unnoticed and unheard. less, No promise of Eternity To dwell with man on IknowIcan never be steadAnd no heavenly reward much-muddled daze earth, fast or pure in this endeavThat covers our minds So let us thank Our Father If there had been no our, but my life shall reprelike a grey autumn haze? That He sent His Only Son Christmas sent an intent and an intent So after this life's ended Have we closed our eyes To herald the Christ that this be so. And our work on earth is to God and His love? Child's birth, And, as my eyes close with done If in this world of violence And turned our eyes tiredness and my mind drifts There's the promise of And hatred, crime and war from "the bright star Into sleep,Irest more easily, Eternity There were absolutely above?" for, as bestIknow,Ihave laid Where our "cross" nothing Oh, Father in heaven, under the Christmas tree of becomes a "crown" That made life worth living renew and restore When all our trials are God's love the only thing I for, The real, true meaning over possess which might If whenever man was of Christmas once more, And we lay our burden approach worthiness in the troubled So we can feel down. mind of the Lord. And lost in loneliness in our hearts again Helen Steiner Rice My Jesus, this Christmas, I offer myself

every year as the days close in to this one day, this Christmas, when, for a time, your Holy Name is on many lips and in many minds, but perhaps not truly in all hearts for proper purposes. There is some sadness in my heart that things are this way. And even more, what shame in my heart that this most supreme of sacrifices struggles for recognition and memory against things which are but dust and against deeds which have no sub-

stance beyond a few hours, but are given undue significance in the mellowness of the drinking and the feasting. Yes, my Lord, these are the distractions of the hour, of the season, and there are indeed many for whom these things are becoming everything. Where is my strength here? But, my Lord, I have also succumbed in your name to the money changers and submitted in celebration of your birth to the sweet rustle of rainbow paper.

Live Christmas every day . . .

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hristmas! What magic that word conjures up. What joy the memories bring as they come flooding back. And what happiness in anticipation of that so special time . . . in fact I get excited about Christmas two months before the event! The first thing Christmas brings to my mind is obviously the birth of Christ - and I visualise this chubby Infant in the manger with his prayerful parents Mary and Joseph watching Him with the enormous love parents should inherently have for their offspring. This baby is, of course, somewhat different. Because he is the Son of God who came into the world to be raised like any other child, but who at the age of 30 for three years was to dedicate himself entirely to the task of educating mankind - re-introducing it to its Father, if you like, and explaining the format for leading the essential way of life that leads to Heaven. So for us the Christmas Mass would have to be the highlight of this magical season and then, surrounding that core, we light up these marvellous days with so much fun, joy, and absolute celebration of life. Firstly there's the Advent wreath, and then the Christmas wreath is hung on the door to remind all our visitors the big day is drawing nearer. The Christmas tree goes up with its decorations which have been dor-

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mant all year, and its fairy lights twinkle and reflect against the window pane at night while the strings of Christmas cards stream from the tree, and Christmas carols play softly in the background. The thrill of making the Christmas pudding surmounted with green holly leaves and red berries, the yummiest Christmas cake, the varieties of vegetables and salads, the croissants and champagne breakfast while we wait for the stuffed turkey growing more golden on the Weber, and then while we wait, my wonderful children leading the Rosary which they elect to say, to thank God for all the good things he's given us - especially the most precious gift of all, himself. Presents for myself on Christmas Day fade into insignificance when I know only so well that Almighty God has given me the greatest treasures his four, simply, wonderful children he's allowed me to have on loan. When you look at the magnitude of God giving us his only Son to be born like us, to live like us, but to die - not like us in the sense that his death was not only horrific but also unjust and

undeserved - then you stand in awe of this magnificent Creator who gave us this precious gift, knowing that his Son would be spurned, rejected. despised, beaten, whipped and crucified. His Son who never uttered one word against ungrateful, persecuting mankind, except those of love and forgiveness. God's second greatest gift to mankind is that of children. They are ours merely on loan, and the onus of responsibility in nurturing, raising, loving and above all correctly educating them is huge. By education I mean the primary one of telling each child who their real father is - the Almighty God of all, and then teaching these children respect, love, awe, wonder, and the desire to do what their Father wants by obeying his Commandments which, sadly enough, even Catholic children today are frequently not taught by their parents. There are a lot of lessons to be learned in Christmas, and the subsequent life Jesus lead. Look at the humble circumstances in which he chose to be born, although he is king of all mankind. Note his humility and love when teaching people and wanting to be near the children; his compassion when healing; the example of his own life; and how he treated those he knew were sinners - the ones the sanctimonious hypocrites would stone, but which he lifted up and Inspired. Meek, yet masterful and fiery, he whipped the money lenders in the Temple - his Father's house - and was head and shoulders above other men. He was proud to acknowledge his Father, and died in innocence for sinful, undeserving mankind; suffering the agony, because despite our unworthiness, he chose to die in those appalling circumstances, shedding his last drop of blood, and finally water. Courageous, and the epitome of love - we certainly have a lot to learn from him, and his mother. Many Catholics these days won't even admit to being Catholic but, if cornered, choose the wider term Christian, in case being specifically a Catholic offends someone! We won't wear a cross or crucifix in public - because that would attract attention (but would, in fact, be a statement!). We wouldn't put a pair of rosary beads on our car rear vision mirror In case people would identify us as being Catholic! Never would we join hands in a restaurant to quietly thank God for the food on our plates and the money he put in our pockets to pay the bill. And do we add "God bless you!" when thanking someone to give them

his blessing as well as thanks - or is And despite humanity's continued that too overtly Christian, let alone mockery of him, and constant sinning, Catholic. Mary pleads to us to turn back to her And also ungrateful, because Son to stop the pain inflicted on him although admittedly there's the indis- and, also most importantly, to face the pensable Catholic nuclei who are fact that if our soul is too grubby, staunchly Catholic and not afraid to we're certainly not going to make it show it, getting to as many sacra- into Paradise. ments as often as they can, there's the Heaven. Purgatory, and Hell do exist, majority who - whether Catholic in whether some try to pretend othername only, or who admit it but barely wise or not, and the price paid for getpay their Sunday dues! - can't be ting our record right or wrong is an bothered doing anything but take! eternal one. They take the good life God has Getting back to Christmas, why given us, the seasons he graciously don't we thank God over and over for robes the earth with, our health and giving us his Son, his mother, Mary, St wealth, and great Australian standard Joseph, and the Holy Spirit who came of living for granted . . . and never down to us when Jesus ascended into think of saying: Thank you dearest Heaven. God. Where would I be without you? Let us love our mother Mary with all Or do we ever thank St Joseph for our heart for being part of God's plan, nurturing Jesus and Mary? for enduring the terrible sadness she And what about Jesus' mother and must have suffered for 30 years fearours - Mary? The whole of God's plan ing he would suffer for mankind. for mankind would have been radiAnd then their parting while he cally different if she hadn't assented to God's wish for her to be the moth- preached and healed for three years before she watched his unspeakable er of Jesus. Have we ever thanked her for that? agony as he suffered and died for us As parents, surely we can empathise And loved her for what she did and with her suffering, thank her for what what she does for each one of us on a daily basis .. .. standing at the door of she did on behalf of humanity, and our hearts waiting for us to open them give her and her Son all the love we as inadequate humans can. to her Son?

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Unit 10/14 Dellamarta Rd, Wangara Estate, Wanneroo WA 6065 Tel 09 409 1080. Fax 09 409 8424 Australiawide Free Call: 1800 819 156 The Record, December 20, 1995 17 ele:V In War(' 3' f 91- a

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Dawn, the angel's story By Jane Wolford Hughes

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ather 'round little ones and I will tell you a story of the most wonderful of nights, Christmas Eve. This story begins before Christmas, a long time ago when God created the earth, the sky and the sea and all their creatures. God created angels. They were to live with God in heaven, and to act as messengers and to do special assignments. Angels are spirits we can't see because they don't have any bodies like we do, but they do have intelligence and free will. In God's generous love for us, each one of us is assigned a guardian angel to guide us through life. But that is another story. This story is about a special angel named Dawn. Her happy nature and Infectious laugh warmed others like the first rays of the sun caressing the earth at the break of dawn. Most angels, when they visit earth, appear in a dazzling white light. Dawn shines with as many colours as you have in your crayon box. When it came time on earth for the Son of God to be born, all in heaven were preparing for the wondrous event. The choirs of angels were practicing their singing, others were blowing away the clouds so all the stars could be seen. Everyone was busy, except Dawn. who was very quiet. God, seeing that this was not like Dawn, called her and asked, "Is there anything wrong?" Dawn answered, "I am concerned about Mary and Joseph and their lonir2 hard journey to Bethlehem. Mary will certainly he tired and a little afraid of what is going to happen. Joseph too will need reassuring. "Lord, you have often said I was your most joyful angel. I would like your permission to accompany them to lift their spirits and remind them of your great love for them." God replied. "Mary and Joseph are strong human persons, but even the strong need special graces at times.

When Jesus was born, Dawn the angel lit up the cave with all her brilliance so that everybody could see and adore him

Dawn. I will send you on this holy mission, for we want the birth of the Son of God to be the happiest event the world has known. To protect themselves from bandits and wild animals, Joseph had pur-

chased a place in a caravan of merchants who were also travelling the 70 miles through the rocky highlands from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Dawn tenderly hovered over them, whispering messages of love and

encouragement and rubbing the ache in Mary's back and legs. Legend tells us the journey lasted a long weary three weeks. Bethlehem was overcrowded with others who came to register for the census. No door was opened; no friendly smile beckoned. Joseph was alarmed, for Mary's birth pains had begun. Dawn beckoned them to a hillside cave that shepherds had used as a stable. Jesus, Saviour of all mankind, was born there. A great star lit the sky, the choirs of angels sang "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!" The angels, reassuring the shepherds in the fields, brought them to the stable. Dawn let her brilliance light the cave so all could see and adore the child. And so it was on this most wonderful nights of all time! With God's encouragement, Dawn remained with the holy family as they fled into Egypt and settled in Nazareth. She played with the child Jesus, and he delighted in her laugh. As he grew, she came and went to the humble house of the carpenter Joseph. She was always near when Mary was pondering the mysteries of her life. This is not the end of the story. For angels never die. Dawn has a new mission and is hiding in surprise places if we but look and open our hearts to hear her. Each day when sunbeams dance next to your cheek you will know Dawn is with you. You and I will know the secret of Dawn. When she visits us she brings her message: "God loves you. Do not be afraid. God sent Jesus on Christmas so that we would have a full life." As you grow older. Dawn will show you how you can be like her in order to bring the message to everyone you meet. Then we can celebrate the meaning of Christmas every day and spread happiness like Dawn!

Trust at heart of Holy Family story Hidden meanings to a place far away. Yes, and then there was no room in the he situation in the inn. Still she trusted. The Lord was with her. She world is not comforting. So many disasters lay her child in a manger, symbrought on by human beings. bolically offering his life as nourishment for God's flock So many deceptions. For a lot of people today, Still, how can anybody live there is no room in the inn. without trust? the homeless. The story of the incarnation Consider Consider the countless thouhas a lot to say about trust. The angel Gabriel. for sands of refugees in the world. In spite of all that, we run instance, ended his areetina by saying, "The Lord is with you." into so many extraordinary When the actual announce- things that inspire trust. Christmas brings them to ment came that she, a virgin from Nazareth, would become mind. It is several years ago the mother of God's Son Mary now since I went to Zaire and really had to trust that the Lord was shown a little baby at a maternity clinic run by some was with her. She did. But what enabled Italian Sisters. The baby's Mary to trust? Her challenge name, I was told, was Lito. Lito was surely greater than any of was barely a week old. us have to face. She trusted There was a young African because she knew God was woman with Lito. holding his with her, no matter what. hand. No, she was not his Husbands and wives face the mother. future with trust because of Lito had been thrown away their relationship to one at birth. When a woman who another. Children trust was gathering mushrooms because of their relationship found him by the roadside, to their parents. early in the morning, kicking Mary trusted because of her and crying in a sack, he was relationship to God. unwashed and bitten by ants. Once again, consider Mary The woman brought Lito to close to giving birth. travelling the Sisters, who welcomed By Fr Eugene LaVerdiere SSS

" 18 The Record, December 20, 1995

him as a gift from God. They bathed him, tied his umbilical cord and gave him a name. Why Lito? Their mother superior had died that very morning. Her name was Sister Lita. "God took Sister Lita to himself, and God gave us Lito in return," they explained. The faith of those Sisters was contagious. There I was in the presence of a child thrown away, a child welcomed by the Sisters as a gift of God. It was enough reason to trust. I was reliving the story of Christmas. AndI relive it every year when I think of Lito. There may have been no room in the inn for Jesus. There may have been no room in the inn for Lito. But when God is with us, do we really need more than a manger? So when you wonder about trust, think of Mary at the annunciation, of the holy family at Bethlehem and of little Lito in Zaire. And think of your friends, your relationships. With all that, why would anyone hesitate to trust? Oh yes. I almost forgot. Lito was adopted by a Zairian couple, who really wanted a child but so far had been unable.

ne English Christmas carol wellknown worldwide today is more than a repetitious tune with pretty phrases and strange gifts. The Twelve Days of Christmas is a song with different levels of meaning. From 1558 to 1829, the Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. During this period, The Twelve Days of Christmas was written in England as a catechism song for young Catholics. The hidden meanings of the song's gifts were intended to help the children remember lessons of their faith. Instead of referring to an earthly suitor the "true love" mentioned in the song refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents is symbolic of every baptised person. The "partridge in a pear tree" is Jesus Christ. In the song, Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge which feigns injury to decoy

predators from her helpless nestlings. The meanings of other symbols are: 711,vo turtle doves - the Old and New Testaments: Three French hens Faith, Hope and Charity: Four calling birds - the four Gospels: Five golden rings - the first five books of the Old Testament, which give the history of man's fall from grace; Six geese a-laying - the six days of creation: Seven swans a-swimming - seven gifts of the Holy Spirit Eight maids a-milking the eight beatitudes; Nine ladies dancing nine fruits of the Holy Spirit: Ten Lords a-leaping the ten commandments: Eleven pipers piping the eleven faithful disciples; drummers Twelve drumming - the twelve points of belief in the Apostle's Creed. (Reprinted in Ave Maria magafmm lanuary 1994. zine.

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A modern Christmas tale x By Fr Thomas Faucher

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he third floor of the Human Services Department was cold. The ancient paper Santa decorations only added to a sense of gloom. On two metal chairs sat the street-wise twins, Barbara and Bobby, 11-year-olds abandoned by their drug-addicted mother. Tony, the young case worker, was having no success talking with them about going to a foster family for Christmas. "'We won't go nowhere." said Bobby, -The last foster parents were mean. We don't trust foster parents." "You can trust these people, they won't hurt you. They just want to let you have a happy Christmas. Christmas is all about trusting others," Barbara responded defiantly "Gramma said Christmas

was about Jesus." "It's the same thing. Jesus had a foster-father and he trusted him." "Jesus didn't have no fosterfather." "Yes he did. Joseph was Jesus' foster-father, and it wasn't easy He was set to marry a girl named Mary. But before the ceremony Joseph found out that Mary was pregnant

and decided to call off the wedding." "Who was it, her old boyfriend?" At least the kids were listening, Tony thought. He went on, "But an angel appeared to him. -Joseph.' -Who are you?' "'I'm an angel and I have come from God to tell you not to break up with Mary.' -But she's pregnant and the baby isn't mine. I'm not going to raise somebody else's kid.' -The Holy Spirit of God has come over her and this child is God's son. You have been chosen to be his foster father.

to raise him as your own.' -How can I do that?' -God is trusting you with his Son, and you need to trust God. He'll take care of you and Mary."' "Wait a minute," Bobby said. "There was no guy but she was pregnant and God did it?" "That's right." -Cool." "Anyway," Tony continued, "then Joseph went and asked Mary what had happened. She told him that one day she was at home and an angel appeared, said his name was Gabriel and that she was going to have a baby and was supposed to name him Jesus. "Mary told the angel that she couldn't have a baby, that she was a virgin. The angel said God's Spirit would come to her. She told Joseph she trusted the angel and had said

yes. "Both Joseph and Mary were really confused by all of this, but felt that if they trusted each other and trusted God they would be OK. lust before the baby was due Joseph and Mary had to make a trip down south to a place called Bethlehem. Joseph walked and Mary rode a donkey." "'Joseph. do you know where we will stay?"

"'I have enough money for us to stay at a motel."' "'But there are so many people on the road. What if there isn't any room?"' "'Then we will just have to let God take care of us."' "They were sort of like you guys," Tony added looking right at the twins. "Every motel was full. The manager of the last place they tried, a wonderful woman named Rebecca, had an idea. "'I am so sorry. There's absolutely no room. But you two wait here. Trust me, I'll find a place for you.' "When Rebecca came back she said they could stay at a barn down the road. It wasn't much but it was clean and warm. "That night, in that barn, Mary had her baby. When Joseph picked up the infant he felt a joy like nothing he had ever experienced. It might not be his child physically, but he knew he was this baby's father." "A few miles away, in a field outside Bethlehem, two brothers, Aaron and Amos, and their sister Anna. were tending sheep. Amos suddenly started yelling.' said Tony. "'Aaron! Anna! Come here,

quick' When the other two came

they saw this enormous bunch of angels, singing and dancing and having a great time. One of the angels flew toward them. The three shepherds were scared. "'Don't hurt us! We didn't do anything.' "'Calm down, we're just celebrating because the Messiah has been born tonight in Bethlehem. You can go see him if you want.' "'But we can't leave the sheep,"' said Aaron, always the practical one of the three. "'Trust me,' the angel said, 'we'll take care of them until you get back' "When the three shepherds came to the barn, Mary was resting. Joseph let each of them hold the baby. "l'here's a lot more to the story. But it's all more about trusting God and God trusting them. "That's what you two have to do. You trust each other and now you have to trust somebody else just like God and Joseph and Mary." When he finished, Barbara said. "OK, so this Joseph was a good guy. How do you know we can trust these people you want us to go to?" "Because it's my wife and I who want to take you home with us."

It's also a time when our faith can be truly tested . . •

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By Dan Luby hristmas was the high point of his year. He

loved the obvious things: the food, the gifts, the decorations, the music. But Christmas always meant big family gatherings filled with warmth and laughter and love. He would happily give up all the other stuff to have that family time. Four days before Christmas, his wife came home from her job at a local parish with a troubling story. A woman named Sandi had shown up two months earlier to talk about joining the church. They'd had a good conversation, and Sandi had opened her soul. She was in a troubled marriage to a man with a drinking problem. He was subject to fits of anger which scared Sandi and their baby, although he'd never beaten her up. Maybe becoming Catholic would give her life some stability. But she didn't follow up. Now she had called for help. She and her baby were at a motel in a neighbouring city. Her husband

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had hit her. She wanted somebody to come get them while he was at work The man listened to his wife nervously. Oh well, he thought. It's Christmas after all. and off they drove. His wife mused out loud: Sandi and her child would need a place to stay for a while. How would he feel about having them at their house for a couple of days? He cringed. He was so busy; they'd be underfoot. But he thought, oh well, it's Christmas; of course they could As they headed home. Christmas is a time for Joy, love and caring - but how 'sharing' are we when Christ comes knocking? Sandi expressed her gratihide and vowed to be out of talk to them. He became family gatherings than if them new suitcases. He their hair soon. Her mother resentful. It wasn't fair. She she'd been physically pre- cooked a lavish meal the had promised to send bus should have offered to go sent. He looked at the peo- night before they left and fare - right after Christmas. for ple he loved and saw their loaded the little girl down else somewhere He smiled stiffly. It was Christmas. warmth, their immense gift with candy for the trip. She one thing to have her here and her mother were genBefore he knew it, he was for hospitality. for a few days before laying down the law to his He was ashamed not to uinely grateful. Christmas. But he couldn't shocked wife. Surprised, she have trusted that they would He was depressed for days imagine bringing strangers agreed to make other embrace a woman in trouto the family gatherings he arrangements. ble and her baby at this holy after they left, but he had learned a lesson. Christmas looked forward to all year. On Christmas Eve, Sandi time of year. He knew the family would and her child were welHe couldn't remember a isn't about hoarding family be polite. comed by a shelter for bat- less-satisfying celebration of togetherness. But after all, it was tered women. Christmas. The Christmas spirit has to The day after, he fell all be shared, has to include Christmas. Though clearly hurt, Sandi He didn't want to be was gracious and under- over himself trying to make those who don't always fit r esponsible for outsiders standing. The man breathed It up to Sandi and her in, don't have other options. daughter. during these family times: a sigh of relief. He insisted on paying for He prayed for another As it turned out, Sandi was didn't want to have to entertain them or be the one to more on his mind at those her bus ticket and bought chance.

1 The Record, December 20. 1995

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Founder seeks prayers for work with AIDS By Mark Grutkowski EMMITSBURG, Md. (CNS) Mother Teresa of Calcutta asked for prayers on December 9 for the Missionaries of Charity to continue their mission of love and care for those weakened by poverty and diseases, including AIDS. "We have taken our vows to help the poorest of the poor, the sick, the lepers and those with the new disease, AIDS," the 87year-old nun told an audience of about 2,000 at Mount St Mary's College and Seminary in Emmitsburg. "Pray for us to continue this work," she added. "We have opened a number of houses for people suffering from AIDS. They have not died in distress. No matter how young they were, they died with peace and with God." Mother Teresa was in the United States to attend a service in Washington during which members of the Missionaries of Charity took their final vows. She was invited to Mount St. Mary's because of the college's longstanding relationship with her order.

In the US, Mother Teresa joins other Missionaries of Charity in prayer

Seminarians from Mount St. Mary's have been working at the Gift of Peace AIDS Hospice in Washington, run by the Missionaries of Charity, for the past 10 years. George Houston, president of the college, introduced Mother Teresa as "an inspiration to us all, the young and the old, the strong and the weak, the rich and the poor."

You have shown the world how the poorest of the poor can be loved," he added. "No one could be a better example of how to live a truly Christian life, and I think that the opportunity to see and hear Mother Teresa just might have the effect of making each of us a better person," Houston told The Catholic Review, Baltimore archdiocesan newspaper.

Lead in struggle for women, Pope tells bishops Churches band together

By Cindy Wooden

VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Pope John Paul II said the Catholic Church in India must work for unity and an end to discriminaNEW DELHI, India (CNS) tion. Meeting on December 13 with Indian church leaders hoisted bishops from central India. the black flags on Human Rights Pope said the Church must pro- Day to press the government to vide an example for society by grant equal rights to low-caste promoting the dignity and equal- Christians and "remove the ity of women, refusing to espouse blot" on the country's constitulocal prejudices about social station. -As we celebrate Human tus and becoming actively involved in dialogue with other Rights Day, the whole Church in India joins dalit (low caste) religions. The bishops were on their "ad Christians in their cry for equal limina" visit to Rome, which the justice," said the National heads of dioceses make every Coordination Committee for Christians, which called the five years. One of the challenges facing December 10 protest. In some places Christians also Indian Catholics, the Pope said, "is the resurgence of that mental- wore visible black badges to ity which separates people on express solidarity with dalit social and ethnic grounds. With Christians, who demand free sadness we acknowledge that education, government jobs even in the Christian community and other statutory benefits allowed for Hindu, Sikh and such problems persist." Discrimination is a violation of Buddhist dalits. the heart of the Gospel message, which calls Christians to love one another, the Pope said. The table society and for a sincere Church must live the unity it cel- love of the poor expressed in a ebrates in the Eucharist, solidarity which will help them The Eucharist is also the source to become agents of their own of Catholics' strength to go into human development.';' the world and transform it into The status of Indian women in "the civilisation of love, founded the Church and society also calls on the universal values of peace, for attention, the Pope told the solidarity, justice and liberty bishops. which find their full attainment While "the problem of the hisin Christ," the Pope said. torical oppression of women is a . He asked Indian Catholics for matter for the whole of society," 'a courageous commitment to the Pope said, the Church has promoting a more just and equi- room for improvement as well as 20

The Record, December 20, 1995 1

having opportunities to help bring about a change in society through its educational institutions, the example of religious women and a conversion of attitudes among Catholics. The Church everywhere, he said, must "be willing to foster feminine participation in every way in her internal life, with the exception of those tasks which properly belong to the priest, by making use of the ample room for a lay and feminine presence recognised by Church law." "By promoting respect for women's true dignity," the Pope said, "you will contribute to freeing reserves of wisdom and sensitivity which the Church and society greatly need." The Pope also encouraged the bishops to increase their contacts with leaders of other religions and "to meet the challenge of militant religious fundamentalism by fostering interreligious dialogue." Cardinal Simon Ignatius Pimenta of Bombay, who spoke on behalf of the other bishops, told the Pope that Indian Catholics number just 18 out of 900 million people. Because they are such a small minority , he said, Catholics must work for acceptance and understanding while bearing witness to the Gospel message. He said even the Church's charitable activities, which are an important expression of Christian faith, have been a source of suspicion among those who see the activities "as a ruse to conversion.'

Mother Teresa first visited the gather their families in prayer. seminary, where she was greeted "The family that prays together by Cardinal William Keeler of stays together," she said. "And if Baltimore and participated in a you stay together you will love holy hour with exposition of the each other the way God loves Blessed Sacrament. you." She led the 165 seminarians in Mother Teresa also asked the the rosary and then spoke to them, emphasising the impor- crowd to help children choose tance of growing in holiness and religious vocations if that is their the need for a life supported by calling. prayer. "What blood is to the "Help us to continue this work body, prayer is to the soul," she by helping your boys and girls said. answer the call," she said. Addressing some 2,000 college Mother Teresa's visit had spestudents and visitors from the surrounding area in the school's cial significance for 17-year-old Montero from Memorial Gymnasium, Mother Trista Teresa reminded them that what- Waynesboro, Philadelphia. Born ever is done for the poor is done in Calcutta, Ms Montero was put up for adoption in a home run by for Jesus. "Jesus loves the poor so much the Missionaries of Charity when that he makes himself one of she was 8 months old. them," she said. "It is a great gift Because of her background she from God to be able to serve has always wanted to meet Jesus in the poorest of the poor. Mother Teresa and was excited to What you do for the least of my finally have the opportunity. "It brothers, Jesus said, you do for feels good," she said. me. I am glad to bring peace and joy, a gift from God himself." In Washington, 15 members of Dressed in her white habit with the Missionaries of Charity problue trim and a dark blue fessed perpetual vows during a sweater, Mother Teresa appeared December 8 Mass at the Basilica happy and smiling before the of the National Shrine of the crowd. She asked the audience to Immaculate Conception.

Return of the Bible is occurring, says scholar WASHING FON (CNS) Though biblical interpretation has had many ups and downs, we have witnessed in recent decades especially a remarkable return to the Bible and its place in Catholic life," said a pre-eminent Scripture scholar. Father Joseph Fitzmyer Sj, the American member of the Pontifical Biblical Commission since 1984, is a past president of the US Catholic Biblical Association. He is noted for his work on the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Gospel of Luke. He said that after the Enlightenment, rationalism prevailed in society. 'The result was that the Bible was no longer looked upon as a source wherein humanity could find truth or God's revelation and moral instruction." he said. The 19th century also brought archaeological and historical discoveries, among them thousands of Greek papyri. When deciphered, these ancient artifacts "opened up areas of information and comparable religious literature that had been unknown to interpreters of the Bible in the patristic, medieval, Renaissance, or even Reformation periods," he said. In 1902, Pope Leo XIII established the Pontifical Biblical Commission "to promote further biblical studies in conformity with the requirements of modern scholarship, but mainly to safeguard the authority of Scripture against the attacks of exaggerated criticism," according to the Jesuit. Gradually, the commission changed its image, he noted, by relinquishing a watchdog role and issuing positive instructions, such as a 1948 document on the Pentateuch and another in 1964 on the historical truth of the Gospels. In the second part of his talk, the priest examined a third commission document, "The Interpretation of the Bible in

the Church," issued for the

1993 centenary of Pope Leo's

encyclical. "What is significant in the document," said Father Fitzmyer, "is the primacy of place that the commission gives to the historical-critical method" of interpretation. Liberationist and feminist approaches are validated, he said, but the commission notes their limitations. He said it warns of the dangers fundamentalist of approaches to the Bible "fundamentalism because springs from an ideology that is itself not biblic.al." According to the document. Catholic, Protestant and Jewish interpretations all try "to comprehend the sense of the texts in their linguistic, literary, sociocultural, historical and religious contexts," said Father Fitzmyer. But Catholic interpreters bring to their work "a presupposition. one that joins their use of modern historical-critical method with the tradition stemming from ancient Israel and primitive Christianity". The document stresses that Catholics "must listen, especially in the liturgy, to the written word of God read and proclaimed, and all have a share in its interpretation," he said. Father Fitzmyer also discussed two 20th-century archaeological finds that have influenced current biblical interpretation: the 1929 discovery of 15th century B.C. clay tablets in Ugaritic and the 194756 discovery at Qumran of the Dead Sea Scrolls that date from about 200 B.C. to 70 A.D. They tell much about the Bible and its truth today, he said. They give "a more accurate understanding of how the Bible came to be, telling us about the historical context from which God's written word, as we have it. actuall\ emerged."

N' /

3nternationa1 Bans . . . Thristmas IggS

Squatters and police clash over demolitions MANILA, Philippines (CNS) - A Philippines congressional committee has called for a Christmas season halt to demolitions of squatter camps. The moratorium was urged by the House committee on housing following a clash at Manila's Smokey Mountain dump that left two residents dead, one of them an infant. "Driving away people from their homes is the most unChristian way to celebrate Christ's birthday," committee chairman Gregorio Andolana said. As the congressman spoke in early December, demolitions continued at Smokey Mountain. where a baby was killed by tear gas in a November 27 clash between squatters and police, UCA News, a Thailand-based Asia Church news agency, reported recently.

Police had used the gas to disperse dump dwellers who were trying to stop a demolition team. Another fatality the same day was Ric Villaruente, acting president of the Smokey Mountain squatters' group opposing the government's eviction effort. He died after being shot in the head. Also in that clash, Japanese journalist Toshiliiko Uriu, who had been taping a documentary at Smokey Mountain, was shot by policemen advancing on residents gathered on the grounds of a church. The Makati Medical Centre where Uriu was taken said they recovered a .45-calibre slug from his stomach. The November 27 confrontation was preceded by more than a decade of debate between the government, which sought to resettle the squatters, and the dump residents. The dump community itself is

Lebanese bishops call for freedom By John Mavis VATICAN CITY (CNS) - The special Synod of Bishops for Lebanon closed with a strong call for national unity. but said reconciliation depends on restoring the country's sovereignty and protecting human rights. Pope John Paul II, who convened the assembly to help revive the Church's role after 17 years of civil conflict, said at a closing Mass on December 14 that Its citizens should forgive and forget the wounds of war. "Is it not perhaps necessary to forget the evil experienced under so many forms? Love takes no account of the wrongdoing received," he said. The Pope, who presided over the 19-day assembly, noted the unprecedented Muslim participation as "fraternal delegates." He said he was certain that the synod's call for cooperation was shared by Lebanon's Islamic community. The synod's closing message spoke optimistically about relations with Muslims, saying their participation made it clear that religious communities were prepared to look beyond their own interests. The message pledged Church assistance in rebuilding Lebanese society, especially in education, health care, housing and economic development. But it said a renewal of political life ultimately depends on restoring Lebanese sovereignty. This means 'liberating (Lebanese) territory of Israeli occupation by applying the deci-

sions of the United Nations." it said, referring to the southern strip of Lebanon held for years by Israeli troops. The synod also called for the departure of the thousands of Syrian troops stationed throughout the country. The message said this lack of independence and sovereignty was demoralising and had stifled the country's recovery. It said the Lebanese resent being treated as if they were minors under the custody of other countries. The synod said the lack of respect for human rights in Lebanon was another reason why many had left the country. It appealed to the state for an end to arbitrary arrests and torture. the freeing of political prisoners and the safe return of those driven out of the county during the years of strife. Reflecting many synod speeches, the message called for greater unity and coordination between Lebanon's six Catholic rites. It said Church communities "sometimes degrade into simple competing interest groups." The synod said the Lebanese hierarchy planned to develop new permanent structures to enhance cooperation of all the Churches, under the authority of the Assembly of Patriarchs and Catholic Bishops of Lebanon. At the same time, the message said the rich traditions of religious communities cannot simply be erased in the name of national or Chumhwide unity Lebanon is multicultural and should stay that way, it said.

divided over the resettlement plan. One group opposes the plan, while the other, supported by Divine Word Father Benigno Beltran, accepts it. Father Beltran, who was pastor of Risen Christ Church at Smokey Mountain, and some of his group were temporarily relocated near the dump. The remaining members were permanently resettled in Cavite, south of Manila. Andolana said the Smokey Mountain incident follows a pattern of violent demolitions nationwide. Even when their actions are legal, the "home wreckers" could show more compassion and wait until after the holidays, the legislator said. The Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates recorded at least 16 razings conducted by the government in 1995.

A Filipino family of beggars eats a meal on a side street of a poverty-stricken district in Manila. They are among thousands who come from the provinces to the city to beg for alms as the Christmas season nears.

'Your husband a martyr for peace,' Pope tells Rabin widow

Yitzak Rabin's widow, Leah, talks with Pope John Paul II during a private audience at the Vatican December 14. Al right is Leah's daughter, Dahlia.

VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Pope John Paul II told the wife of slain Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin her husband was a martyr for peace. The Pope met Leah Rabin and her children, Dahlia and Yuval, December 14 at the Vatican. They spent about 15 minutes talking together privately before moving into the papal library to exchange gifts and pose for photographs. Mrs Rabin told reporters she was grateful for the warmth with which he received her family.

"After all, he is the Pope and it was very, very exciting to be invited by him as a tribute to the memory of my late husband," she said. An Israeli university student confessed to the murder, claiming Rabin was helping to create a Palestinian state through the Middle East peace talks. Pope John Paul "emphasized that he thinks my husband died as a martyr. . . a victim of what he believed in most - the right to peace." Mrs Rabin said. The Vatican provided no official

F.roto CNS via Reute•

statement about the meeting. Mrs Rabin, at a press conference after her papal audience. said the Pope expressed "his view that my husband's murder will be a stimulation to the peace process: I give him enormous credit for having said it and for emphasizing it again today." The widow, dressed in black and wearing pearls and gold chains around her neck, said her husband's murder made Israelis realize that they could not be silent about their support for the peace process.

El Salvador returning to crisis point SAN SALVADOR (CNS) - A leading Salvadoran bishop has warned that Pope John Paul II may not find "a country in peace" when he visits in February. During a December 10 Mass, celebrated in San Salvador's Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Auxiliary Bishop Gregorio Rosa Chavez warned that the pope could find an El Salvador marked by "violence on every street corner and hunger due to the high cost of living ... (in a country) slipping dangerously back to had habits of the past." Later, he said the country is beset by "increasing social tensions and social polarization."

"We are returning to the times just prior to the (12-year civil) war," which ended in a UN-sponsored political settlement in January 1992. Over the past few weeks, labor disputes have intensified in protest at government plans to lay off about 15,000 public employees by the end of the year. sectors are Opposition demanding a suspension of the government's social and economic plan: unions have threatened to broaden their protest actions before Christmas. For their part political analysts at Jesuit-run Central American University in San Salvador

termed the country's current situation "difficult and serious," provoked by "instability, confrontation and intolerance." In a publication produced in early December. the university said the state is being controlled by -economically powerful groups" and by an "increasingly authoritative" political party, the governing Arena party. University analysts also blamed the political opposition for the crisis, accusing former leftist rebels, now occupying seats in Congress. of putting their own interests 'above the demands and necessities 01 he .

The Record, December 2b, 1995

hternational news

A(10( In Brief

Ehristmas )90

Bisho ps in Bosni doubt a S.Korean

1 M.

reform call SEOUL, South Korea (CNS) - The president of the Korean bishops' Justice and Peace Committee called earlier this month for systematic political reforms in South Korea in light of the corruption allegations made against former South Korean Presidents. in order to realise the reconciliation of Korea, political leaders should dismantle the hypocrisy and lies first," said Bishop Joseph Kyeong Kapryong of Taejon. Bishop Kyeong said that besides uncovering acts by former presidents Chun Doohwan and Roh Tae-woo, the government and people must observe legal order and respect human life and rights in order to contribute to the common good.

Satellite angel BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (CNS) United States' religious broadcaster Mother Angelica's Eternal Word Television Network in Birmingham, operating on cable TV until now, will be available on satellite relay from early 1996. Eternal Word will come on line on the Colorado-based DISH network. "This event is truly a blessing for people living in areas where EWTN is not available on cable," Mother Angelica. EWTN founder and board chairwoman. said.

ZAGREB, Croatia (CNS) - The Catholic bishops of BosniaHerzegovina have expressed "serious doubts" that the Dayton, Ohio, accord will produce lasting peace. The United States-mediated agreement contains "several very strange contradictions" and "pernicious uncertainties," they said. They complained the accord established the country's indivisibility but divided Bosnia in two and allowed for three armies. The agreement gave half the territory to Serbs, who only form one-third of the population, they added. There is no clear mechanism for implementing the safe return of refugees and displaced people to their ancestral homes, they said. The bishops also said the accord put a thin strip of land called Bosanska Posavina, with a heavy Croatian Catholic populaHon, under minority Serb control. "By this agreement, ethnic cleansing and the principle that might makes right have been confirmed and legalised; the victim and the aggressor have been placed at the same level." they said. Throughout the four years of fighting in the ex-Yugoslavia,

the Catholic bishops have blamed the Serbs as the primary aggressors. The statement, issued prior to the December 14 ceremonial signing of the accord in Paris, asked the drafters of the treaty to "decisively commit themselves to rectification of injustices and the creation of as just a peace as possible." The peace agreement "introduces new discord and dilemmas concerning the restoration and safeguarding of fundamental human and civil rights and freedoms, including the religious and ethnic rights and freedoms of all the inhabitants of BosniaHerzegovina." they said. At the same time, "we salute the cessation of this war of aggression and this peace agreement," they said. "We pray to God that this war A Bosnian Serb woman sits in her empty house as she prepares to leave will truly be over. . . . We reiter- the northern Bosnian town of Odzak last week. Some 19,000 Serbs will ate our readiness to assist in the have to move from Odzak, which is due to come under Bosnian government implementation of all construc- control under the Dayton peace agreement. Photo CNS/Reuters tive and feasible solutions to endPero Sudar of Sarajevo. In a sop- Catholic Croats displaced from ing this terrible war." they said. The statement was signed by arate statement, Bishop Komar- their traditional homelands Bosnia's four bishops: Cardinal Ice said he believed it was possi- wanted to return. Banja Luka is under Serb conVinko Puljic of Sarajevo; Bishops ble for Croats to live in Bosnian Franjo KomEuic.a of Banja Luka territory under Serb administra- trot. During the fighting, tens of thousands of Croats were forced and Ratko Peric of Mostar- tion. The bishop said the mostly to leave the region. Duvno; and Auxiliary Bishop

Religion comes in from Faith focus of 2000 out of the cold in Russia Holy Year celebrations

Vatican link VATICAN CITY (CNS) - The Vatican has established full diplomatic relations with Mozambique as a sign of the Catholic Church's appreciation of the establishment of democracy in the southern African nation. Following mediation by an Italian Catholic lay group and a Mozambican archbishop, a peace agreement was signed in 1992 ending 16 years of civil war. The country's first democratic elections were held in October 1994.

A widow's plea LONDON (CNS) - The widow of a Catholic head teacher murdered trying to protect one of his pupils has urged children at the school to "create a world in which goodness is never again destroyed by evil." Frances Lawrence's husband, Philip Lawrence, was stabbed to death outside St George Catholic School in Maida Vale, North London, on December 8 after he went to the defence of a 13-year-old boy threatened by a gang. "Through your loving letters, I can see how much you care about other people. I can see that you understand the difference between right and wrong and your belief that love should always overcome hatred," she wrote. The murder has prompted calls for security improvements in inner-city schools and stiffer laws against possessing knives.

A Chinese worker sculpts a cathedral out of ice in the central Siberian city of Irkutsk last week. Ice castles and Orthodox Christian symbols have replaced the red banners of the Soviet era as street decorations during parliamentary elections in Russia. Photo CNS Reuters

VATICAN CITY (CNS) Organising transportation and accommodation for pilgrims to Rome joining the jubilee celebration of the year 2000 will be a big job, but the Church's main concern is with matters of faith. a Vatican official has said. Preparations for the Holy Year must be aimed at "reinforcing the faith of the people of God and giving space to expressions of unity" so that belief in Jesus Christ is more evident than the historic divisions among Christians, and between Christlam and the members of other faiths, Cardinal Roger Etchegaray said, The French cardinal is president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and head of the Vatican council preparing the Church's celebrations, The jubilee council released a book of theological and pastoral reflections on Pope John

Paul ll's 1994 letter on the coming third millennium to help Catholics prepare for the celebration. Archbishop Sergio Sebastiani, secretary of the jubilee central committee, said Pope John Paul had already established four committees and eight commissions to help the Church prepare for the jubilee event. The ecumenical commission has already been in contact with the World Council of Churches and the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate of Constantinople to find ways for all Christians to share the jubilee events. Another commission has been charged with gathering the stories and documenting the lives of "new maftyrs," those who died for their faith this century under the oppression of the Nazis or totalitarian communist regimes.

US permanent diaconate 'highly successful' WASHINGTON (CNS) - A study on the permanent diaconate in the United States conducted for the US bishops has declared the restored order of the diaconate "highly successful." "Deacons tell us that they would advise others to pursue the ministry," the study, released on December 1, said.. "The data show some disappointments but contain no disillusionments." The study reflected growing concern over the perceptions of deacons being a "stop gap" in the midst of a growing clergy shortage, and of deacons being in a gray area - not quite priests but not quite laity. Conducted over a two-year period, the study sought the opinion of more than 9,000 of the 11,000 US deacons, plus more than 1,700 respondents in each of

22 The ,Redorci, December 20, 1995

three other groups - deacons' wives, deacons' priest supervisors, and parish lay leaders. It "documents several things that have been apparent" since the diaconate was restored in 196Z Samuel Taub, a permanent deacon who is executive director of the bishops' Secretariat for the Diaconate, said. Catechesis on the diaconate would be appropriate, Deacon Taub said. The use of deacons in what traditionally have been priestly functions would be one topic of catechesis, he said. -There's a danger in being pragmatic and attempting to fill those responsibilities once filled by priests with deacons," he said, "which in the long run could be damaging to both the presbyterate and the diaconate." About three dozen of the priests

surveyed "explicitly described the use of deacons as a pragmatic response to the priest shortage as distorting the meaning of both priesthood and the diaconate," the study said. "Most deacons feel that their initial vision of what the dinconate would be had been fulfilled," the study reported. But "more than a few deacons" complained in their survey responses about being thought of as "incomplete priests" or "more advanced laity," it added. The study said that "quite a few" wives of deacons recommended more preparation days for wives of men in formation given by wives whose husbands have been deacons for more than five years. The average age of deacons today is almost BO, with most

having completed their childrearing responsibilities. About half of the deacons' supervisors said they "sometimes" see deacons' ministerial and family obligations conflicting. Only three per cent of the deacons have never been married. Among issues the study said should be looked at for the future include the deacon's identity and acceptance in light of the priest shortage; strengthening the social justice teaching component of deacon formation programs; and pm-ordination spiritual formaHon and post-ordination spiritual direction of deacons. Only 12 per cent of deacons said they received "a very strong emphasis" on Church social teaching in their formation, while another 20 per cent said it got "somewhat" of an emphasis.

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THANKS HOLY Spirit, you who solve all problems and light all so that I can attain my goal. You gave us the divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against us and that in all instances of our lives are with us. I want to make this short prayer to thank you for all things and confirm once again that I never wanted to be separated from you ever, in spite of all material illusions. I want to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Thank you Sacred Heart of Jesus. J.D. ASK for three favours. Say nine Hail Mary's for nine days with a lighted candle. Pray, whether you believe it or not. Publish on the ninth day. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised. adored, glorified. loved today and every day for ever and ever. Amen. L.T. THANK you to the Holy Spirit, thou who makes me see everything and shows me the way to reach the ideal, you who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances in my life with me, In this short dialogue I want to thank you for everything and confirm that I never wanted to be separated from you no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual: glory, Amen. Thanks also

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OH MOST beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruit of the vine, splendour of heaven, blessed mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist this in this my necessity. Oh star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my mother. Oh holy Mary. Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to suffer (or help) me in this my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh show me herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Sweet mother I place this cause within your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you. Thanks D.B

0 HOLY St Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. Say three Our Father's, three Hail Mary's and Gloria's. Thanks for Favour Granted. J.D.

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THANKS ASK for three favours. Say nine Hail Mary's for nine days with a lighted candle. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised. adored, glorified, loved today and every day for ever and ever. Amen. K.A. HOLY Spirit, you who solve all problems and light all so that I can attain my goal. You gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances of my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you. for all things and confirm once again that I never wanted to be separated from you ever, in spite of all material illusions. I wish to be with you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Grateful thanks for favours received from the Holy Spirit. C.R. PRAY the following prayers daily: St Joseph. St Rita, Holy Spirit, Blessed Virgin of Mt Carmel. St Anthony. All these prayers are printed regularly. Thanks Saints. All prayers

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272 3566

Tim Recordi Doestaber ,20, 1995

School of Evangelisation Fr Joe Grech and his team from Melbourne will be heading over to Pemberton in 1996 to run a school of Evangelisation. It will be held at the Karriholm Christian Centre from 19th February to 9th March. The purpose of the school is to develop a closer relationship with Jesus Christ and to enable the participants to spread the Good News to others. Prayer, study and practice constitute the key underlying elements of the School. It is by evangelising that one learns to evangelise! If you would like more details about the school, please contact Marcelle IngoId on (097) 761 734. •

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YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT

PRINCIPALS MICHAEL QUIN & KAREENA BALLARD PROPERTY SALES - RENTALS - STRATA MANAGERS

SOUTH OF THE RIVER

474 1533 WE CARE!

ELLIOTT & ELLIOTT Optometrists

Contact Lens Consultants

4 Cantonment Street, FREMANTLE Phone 335 2602

CAMBINATA YABBIES We sell, we buy, Call us on Ph: (09) 368 1706 Fax (098) 646 094

we produce for commercial, private and Export purposes

Order now for Christmas

scE,NEl IN REMEMBRANCE OF THE SEMINARY GARDENER Mass for Louie Younger's second anniversary will be held on Wednesday 27 December at 9.30am at St Charles' Seminary chapel, Guildford. SOCIETY OF ST VINCENT DE PAUL BOOKSHOP Members of the Committee wish all its customers and volunteers a Happy and Holy Christmas. We look forward to seeing you again next year. The bookshop will be closed until Monday 22 January, 1996. 15 Bronte St, East Perth, WA, 6006. PAULIAN ASSOCIATION The Paulian Association has a supportive and caring environment that is helpful for those who have lost a partner through The death, separation or divorce. Association offers a spiritual and educational programme and a social calendar to help adults with Christian ethics re-establish themselves and their children. For Catholics striving to maintain the practice of their faith in difficult circumstances, it is particularly helpful. The devastation of loss can be reduced by communicating with understanding others whose motto is "For Your Hidden Self to The Grow Stronger" from St Paul. A ssociation has the approval of the Archbishop and recently hosted a national conference for local and interstate delegates. For more information phone: Denise work (09) 457 9622, home (09) 398 3368, Yvonne (09) 342 2988.

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NEW YEAR'S EVE Midnight Mass will be offered on the occasion of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, at the Church of "Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church," Chittering Rd, Bullsbrook. This will be preceded by a candle light procession and Rosary at 11.30pm on the Sunday night. For further inquiries please phone 444 2285 or 447 3292. Sacri Assoc. PO Box 311, Tuart Hill, WA, 6060. FEAST OF THE HOLY INNOCENTS On the Feast of the Holy Innocents, Thursday 28 December, Archbishop Hickey will celebrate Mass in reparation for abortion at St Mary's cathedral at 7.30pm. Please bring baby clothing etc to help mothers of the unborn. Pro-life Rosary at 7.10pm. Inquiries to Catholic Pro-Life on 446 9682.

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pclicgrint's ookshop

Hearstory

Personal. History Research. Ream- ing and Transcription Service

After Christmas

Sale

Wednesday 27 December to Sunday 7 January Open each day except New Year's Day.

50% off.

SULLIVAN

$289,000 "Rose of Clare" Bed and breakfast Guesthouse Spacious home in a quiet residential area offers seven bedrooms, three bathrooms, pool, ample parking. 1366 sqm lot. Options: Family Home, Business Purposes, Live-in with Income - Boarders/Students, Retreat/Crisis Centre or Redevelop.

Your Life Story

Immortalised on tape, because not everyone has time to write an autobiograpy. Don't let your story be lost or left to second hand recollection - it's too Important! Just ask your family! Your story is part of their heritage - an heirloom, a golden gift to be cherished by generations to come. Remember libraries are full of people searching for snippets of information about their forbears. Your story will be recorded using professional audio-equipment on the relaxed, casual atmosphere of your own home, at your own pace, by an experienced and caring interviewer with confidentiality guaranteed. Optional transcription of tapes available. Do it now!!

$329,000 3) Claremont Two-Storey Townhouse Close to the river Well designed private Townhouse with two spacious bedrooms upstairs with atrium style bathroom. Third bedroom or study and second bathroom, kitchen and meals area downstairs. Charming landscaped rear garden. $775,000 Stunning River and Park Views For the buyer wanting the lifestyle, benefits and security that only "Mayfair" can offer.

4) Crawley

$269,000 5) Mosman Park Weatherboard and Iron Cottage Delightful three bedroom home with Jarrah floorboards and many extras. 817 sqm land.

Call Lorraine Williams

BA (History),

on 364 2617 for a free pre-interview meeting.

Li 0 Hello Newman . . . We're as close as your phone

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING (008) 11 4010 (local call charge) (Metro callers please use 221 3866) Natural Family Planning Centre 29 Victoria Square Member of the Australian Council of Natural Family Planning Inc.

The Record, December 20, 1995

$747,000 Style • Location • Value Stunning two storey Executive Residence with river views. Six bedrooms, three bathrooms, beautiful formal rooms, spacious kitchen and family areas, double lock-up garage, fantastic tropical garden with heated pool and spa.

2) Belmont

Delight your family with the most precious and lasting gift of all

—ID

All Christmas goods including nativities and cards

1) Attadale

ADORATION - NEW YEAR'S EVE There will be an hour of adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament on Sunday 31 December 1995 from 10pm-11pm, followed by Holy Mass at the Holy Trinity Church, 8 Burnett St, Embleton. There will be a get-together after the service at the parish hall. Please bring a plate and your own drinks. Enquiries: (09) 271 5588 or (09) 272 1379.

20% to 90% off just about everything else.

KEVIN SULLIVAN AND ASSOCIATES

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If you visit us only once a year - this is the time to come in and pick up some Bargains

EXCELLENT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES Op

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$169,000 6) Shenton Park Two Bedroom Stylish Appartment Cleverly redesigned single level strata unit complete with private leafy rear courtyard and many extras. Should you require further information or should you wish to inspect any of the above properties. please contact Trish Fynmore 384 1554 Office 383 3333 ******************************* To my clients and friends Greetings of joy and goodwill for Christmas and 1996 A Christmas thought: Hope sees the invisible Feels the intangible and Achieves the impossible Trish Fynmore 384 1554 Office 383 3333 Mobile 018 913197

858 Hay Street Perth Phone 321 6655 Fax 321 1937 (near His Majesty's Theatre) 8.30am-5.30pm Mon-Thurs 8.30am-8.30pm Friday 9am-5pm Saturday Noon-4pm Sunday

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Holy and Happy Christmas to all.

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Owners of Thomsons, Pat, Jon and Danny Gavin thank all readers for their ongoing support and custom

THOM SONS Tk ', t 1 poptp f 4 BIG DISCOUNT STORES

PERTH

•

810 Hay St Opp6site Centreways Arcade

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321 9833

BOORAGOON Garuen City Shopping Centre

364 7177

MIRRABOOKA Mirra000ka Square Shopping Centre

344 6911

JOONDALUP L.:int:side ;.'Shopping Citv

300 3844

•• • • •

MEMBERS OF RETRAVISION - AUSTRALIA'S BIGGEST BUYING GROUP

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would like to take this opportunity to wish readers The Record a happy and holy Christmas. e AS•

Latin Mass times over the Christmas period are as follows: St John's pro-Cathedral Christmas Eve, Sunday 24 December 11.15am, Christmas Mass (vigil), will also be on Sunday 24 December, 9.00pm. New Year's Eve, Sunday 31 December, 11.15am, New Year's Day (vigil) will also be on Sunday 31 December, 9.00pm

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For further information, please ring Dr Tom Whipple: (09) 457 5860

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INTRODUCING THE O WNERS OF BOWRA & O'DEA. MR O'DEA, M R O'DEA, MR O'DEA, A ND MR O'DEA.

As you can see, Bowra & O'Dea is very much a Western

Funeral Directors) and our Pre-Paid Funeral Plan, Bowra &

Australian family owned and operated funeral company. With an

O'Dea strive to offer families even greater support in the nineties.

alarming number of funeral direction companies around

For further information, or a brochure detailing the services we

Australia now owned and controlled by large American

provide, please call any of our offices. There's one near you.

corporations, it is a comfort to know that you can rely on the

Perth (Head Office), 68 Stirling Street: 328 7299. Balga,

O'Dea family's reputation for professionalism and genuine care.

502 Wanneroo Road: 349 0100. Cannington, 1307 Albany

This reputation is something that four generations of the O'Dea

Highway: 458 5017. Cottesloe, 571 Stirling Highway: 384 2226.

family have been proud to earn. And with innovations such as

Dianella, 231 Grand Promenade: 271 5885. Midland, 131 Great

our Bereavement Education Division, Female Staffed Division (Leanne O'Dea

OWRA & 09DA FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Eastern Highway: 250 1088. Leanne O'Dea, 231 Grand Promenade: 371 1155.

BRAND ODEA0077