Broken Bay News June 2021 Issue 210

BB35 CELEBRATIONS / PAGE 6 BISHOP ANTHONY RANDAZZO: LISTENING TO THE HOLY SPIRIT/ PAGE 2

JOSEPH HOUSE OPENING/ PAGE 4 CATHOLICCARE FRIENDSHIP PROGRAM/ PAGE 12

HOW PAUL CHANGED HIS LIFE WITH A MESSAGE FROM GOD/ PAGE 30

# 210 JUNE 2021

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BISHOP’S MESSAGE

Listening to the Holy Spirit DIOCESE OF BROKEN BAY Tel: (02) 8379 1600 Caroline Chisholm Centre Building 2, 423 Pennant Hills Rd Pennant Hills NSW 2120 PO Box 340 Pennant Hills NSW 1715 enquiries@bbcatholic.org.au CHANCERY Bishop: Most Rev Anthony Randazzo Vicar General: Very Rev Dr David Ranson Executive Officer: Kelly Paget Diocesan Financial Administrator, Director, Stewardship: Emma McDonald Director, Diocesan Safeguarding: Jodie Crisafulli Tel: (02) 8379 1605 Director, Communications: Iggy Pintado Director, Evangelisation Broken Bay: Tomasz Juszczak CATHOLIC SCHOOLS BROKEN BAY Director: Danny Casey Tel (02) 9847 0000 PO Box 967 Pennant Hills NSW 1715 CATHOLICCARE Executive Director: Tim Curran Tel: (02) 9481 2600 Family Centres: Brookvale – Naremburn – Tuggerah – Waitara –

Tel: (02) 8043 2600 Tel: (02) 8425 8700 Tel: (02) 4356 2600 Tel: (02) 9488 2400

Hospital Chaplaincy & Pastoral Care: (02) 9481 2600 Children’s Services: (02) 9481 2600 Disability Futures: (02) 9488 2500

By Bishop Anthony Randazzo My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, At pivotal moments in my life, I can recall times that I have truly sought to listen, and that listening has had a profound impact on my decisions and the direction my life has taken.

I remember when a colleague made an error and the heavy impact of admonishment may not have had the effect of rehabilitation, but rather it might have isolated that person. I took the issue to prayer and tried to listen deeply to the Spirit of God so as not to take a decision based solely upon reason. By using both faith and reason, I was able to make a good decision which would create pathways and opportunities for the other person.

It was also very liberating for me because it allowed me to draw God into my daily life and into my decisions.

As I often say to others, ministry is not all about “me”. It is ultimately about God and what the Spirit of God is calling us to be – brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ.

Recent weeks have seen a renewed focus on the Plenary Council in the

Diocese of Broken Bay. In April, I convened a gathering of the delegates and animators from our community of the Church. It was the first time we had come together to consider the next development for the Plenary Council since the pandemic began. Prior to the interruption of COVID-19, the Diocese of Broken Bay had been one of the highest responders to the Plenary Council with much discussion, prayer, and contemplation of the theme “Listen to what the Spirit is saying to the Church in Australia”. There are encouraging signs that this enthusiasm has not waned, but that many still desire to participate in the respectful exterior and prayerful interior listening that leads us to genuine conversion, renewal, and reform which flow from knowing Jesus Christ.

The Plenary Council has the potential to be a movement of the Holy Spirit, who guides the community of the Church to embrace a holy listening, a truthful speaking, a dialogue of love. I would hope that the discernment and listening skills that many of us have

Services for Seniors: (02) 9488 2500 Permanency Support Program (Foster Care): (02) 4320 7700 BROKEN BAY NEWS Editor: Melissa Loughlin Tel: (02) 8379 1618 news@bbcatholic.org.au Design: Chris Murray Photography: Tom Croll 10,400 copies of Broken Bay News are distributed quarterly to 26 parishes and 44 schools in the Diocese of Broken Bay. The Broken Bay News is a member of the Australasian Catholic Press Association. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply diocesan endorsement of products or services advertised.

www.bbcatholic.org.au We acknowledge the Darug, Gurringai and Darkinjung Nations, the traditional custodians of the land across our Diocese. We recognise the Aboriginal people as holding the memories, the traditions and the culture of the lands we live and work upon.

We honour their wisdom and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

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The Plenary Council has the potential to be a movement of the Holy Spirit 2/

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BISHOP’S MESSAGE

learned and practiced over the past few years will be an invaluable asset to our ministry and mission into the future. They are skills for everyday faith and life.

mission in the world is comparable with Jesus’ description of the kingdom of heaven, which was so rich, surprising, and foundational to who we are as human beings.

As we listen to the voice of the Spirit, we have heard on many occasions that God is calling us to embrace the ‘new evangelisation’, which includes the call to be ‘missionary disciples’ who are in communion with the Body of Christ. We need to ensure that these words do not fall into common parlance and through inaction, become emptied of their meaning.

Merely repeating them over again will not animate them in our life.

Jesus said the kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour until all of it was leavened (Matthew 13:33).

It is like the man who brings out the treasure from his house, both what is old and new (Matthew 13:52). It is like one who scatters seed on the ground but while sleeping does not know how the seed sprouts and grows (Mark 4:26-29).

Our vocation is to rouse the world to consider its origins and purpose, expressed so powerfully through the Scripture and the Tradition of the Church. There are timeless and unchangeable principles that have been true since the foundation of the world, and there are renewed truths given to us by Jesus and revealed by the Holy Spirit that we are called to nurture and cultivate in the world.

There may be a temptation to think that the new evangelisation is reduced to something that we do to society, or that making missionary disciples is to convert people away from their current lives to something entirely different.

As Catholic Christians, there is work for us to do, but we might remember that it is God’s work, and the Spirit calls us to participate in it. Our

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Through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, we have received the grace to be disciples of the Lord. contemporary contexts and challenges is different, yet our faith reminds us of the timelessness of Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. This paradox provides us with the creative tension to cooperate with the Holy Spirit, to be instruments of the new evangelisation, and to live as effective missionary disciples of Jesus Christ.

Through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, we have received the grace to be disciples of the Lord. We must be confident that God’s grace is sufficient for us, for our community of the Church, and for our mission to evangelise the world.

Breathe life into us, once more Holy Spirit, so that we might proclaim Jesus Christ to the world.

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Joseph House – a new house of discernment opens in Broken Bay

By Selina Hasham On Saturday 1 May, the Feast of St Joseph the Worker, the Most Rev Anthony Randazzo blessed and opened Joseph House, a house of discernment for young men in the Diocese of Broken Bay. The House, located in Willoughby in the Parish of Lower North Shore, is the third house of discernment opened by Bishop Randazzo, who established the first in Brisbane, the second in Sydney when he was Auxiliary Bishop, and now as Bishop of Broken Bay, the third dedicated to the patronage of St Joseph.

Joseph House reflects Bishop Randazzo’s desire to call forth the baptismal vocation of every person as well as encourage and support vocations to the priesthood, to marriage, to religious and single life.

“I wish to build a vocational culture in which every person is attentive to the call of God in their own lives and their mission to walk the way of discipleship and follow Jesus Christ,” said Bishop Randazzo.

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People gathered from across the Diocese for the blessing and ribbon cutting to officially open Joseph House, a collaboration between many agencies of the Diocese including Youth, Vocations, Communications and Evangelisation Broken Bay. Throughout a 12-18 month stay, six young men will experience community living, and will contemplate, pray and actively discern their vocation, whilst being

active in the world maintaining regular work, studies and daily life.

The early Federation style house dates back to the 1900s and over the decades has had a history as a convent for the sisters of St Joseph, an office for Catholic education, and a Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC) home for priests, as well as a number of seminarians in formation.

It was blessed on 1 May for its present purpose as a house of discernment for

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the young men who are expected to move in for the second half of the year.

The Joseph House logo which was burnt into a wooden sign at the entrance of the house, features two symbols often depicted in representations of St Joseph. The set square is the sign of a master craftsman and the lily is a symbol of purity. Bishop Randazzo explained that these symbols are depicted together to show that “both qualities are important to grow strong and committed men of God, who work hard and live in the world, and strive for a pure heart to walk in the way of discipleship with Jesus Christ.”

Bishop Randazzo announced the House would be governed by a House Council comprised of a number of people experienced in leadership and mission in the Church and from a variety of charisms and vocations.

He announced the members are Rev Fr Paul Durkin, Director for Vocations, Diocese of Broken Bay; Mr Alex

ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

Leach, Coordinator of Catholic Youth in Evangelisation Broken Bay; Ms Kylie Cullen; and Mr and Mrs Paul and Soizic Morrissey. Bishop Randazzo also appointed a priest animator to accompany the men in moments of discernment, the soon to be ordained Deacon Sam French.

Though Joseph House is for young men, Bishop Randazzo explained that it was only half the story. “I also intend to develop this model further with a house of discernment for women”.

Bishop Randazzo was clear in pointing out that the whole community of the Church of Broken Bay should embrace the mission of Joseph House.

“I look to you to be the ambassadors of this House, to inspire young men you may know to consider seriously reflecting on God’s call for their life,” he said.

“I look to you to be partners in the mission of the Church to build

a vocational culture, so that our young people might discover the divine purpose of their lives. The responsibility of nurturing strong vocations lies with each and every one of us.”

For enquiries and more information about Joseph House, visit www.bbcatholic.org.au/josephhouse

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ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

Celebrating 35 years of Broken Bay Bay, as well as Bishop Bill Wright from Maitland-Newcastle, Bishop Richard Umbers, Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney and Fr Peter Williams, Vicar General in Parramatta Diocese, along with Clergy from the Diocese of Broken Bay.

the present, and we look humbly yet confidently to the future filled with Christian joy and hope,” said Bishop Anthony in his homily. “Above all, we give thanks to Almighty God for His unfailing love and mercy.”

Bishop Anthony Randazzo celebrated the jubilant Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, Waitara to mark 35 years since Pope John Paul II issued the Papal Bull announcing the formation of a new Diocese in Northern Sydney.

Special guests included The Hon Phillip Ruddock, Mayor of Hornsby, Mr Alister Henskens, Member for Kuring-gai, and representatives from the Office of Emma McBride, Member for Dobell, as well as Bishop Peter Stuart, Anglican Bishop of Newcastle and Fr Bassilious Gad, Coptic Orthodox Parish Priest.

A light supper was enjoyed by guests in The Light of Christ Centre, following the Mass.

Joining Bishop Anthony to celebrate Mass was Bishop Emeritus David Walker, the second Bishop of Broken

“We acknowledge those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith, we celebrate this moment in

By Melissa Loughlin The community of the Church of Broken Bay gathered on 8 April 2021 to mark our 35th Anniversary. It was a joyous occasion with representatives from across the Diocese and from the community in our region.

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May this anniversary year provide an opportunity for profound and prayerful contemplation upon our past. May it be a blessed time of festival and delight in the present.

And may it be a Spirit-filled time of renewal to animate us to live and proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ the risen Lord into the future.

Broken Bay Plenary Council Delegates commissioned On Saturday 17 April, Bishop Anthony Randazzo along with Plenary Council delegates and animators from the Diocese of Broken Bay, gathered for the first time since the pandemic began, to discuss the re-enlivening of the Plenary Council initiative.

team in The Light of Christ Centre Waitara, included prayer, discussion, formation from Bishop Anthony, and the presentation of resources. It concluded with Mass at which Bishop Anthony commissioned the four delegates for the Diocese of Broken Bay – Fr David Ranson, Alison Newell, Raj Rajasingam and Danny Casey.

The afternoon of formation, organised by the Evangelisation Broken Bay

The Plenary Council, that depends heavily on gatherings of the faithful

By Selina Hasham

and interactive discussions, suffered a blow during 2020 when local and national meetings were not possible.

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference steered the Plenary Council through these uncertain times but has remained committed to seeing it through.

Tomasz Juszczak, Director of Evangelisation Broken Bay began the day by acknowledging that the Diocese had been one of the highest responders to the Plenary Council initiative before the impact of COVID-19.

In his presentation, Bishop Anthony emphasised the need to stay connected locally, nationally and internationally as we seek the will of God for our Diocese.

“As we gather to re-animate our participation in the Plenary Council, we are mindful we are part of a holy communion,” said Bishop Anthony.

“Our local Church is part of the Universal Church and we are one body in Christ.”

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“The journey towards the Plenary Council has been an engagement in connecting communities of believers from all over Australia. Thus far it has been an exercise of listening.”

Bishop Anthony noted that the theme of the Plenary Council, ‘Listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches’ is repeated seven times in the Book of Revelation. “This listening,” he said, “has become the predominant guide for the Australian Catholic Bishops when we called the Plenary Council”.

“The Plenary Council is not a

ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

parliament. It is not a convention nor is it a political congress. It is an instrument of the Holy Spirit, who guides the community of the Church to embrace a holy listening, a truthful speaking, a dialogue of love.”

As Bishop Anthony commissioned the four delegates to the Plenary Council, he emphasised the responsibility of all the baptised to nurture a life of holiness and engage with the mission of the Church.

“Along with our enthusiastic animators across the Diocese, we

will engage together in the exterior and interior listening that leads us to genuine renewal and reform centred around conversion in Jesus Christ,” said Bishop Anthony.

Part of the day involved prayerful meditation upon the icon of Mary Star of the Sea, patroness of the Diocese of Broken Bay. All participants received a framed image of the icon by iconographer Michael Galovic to take home, and were invited to continue to use it in their prayer along the journey of the Plenary Council.

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ERIN’S PLACE

Can you help fund the refurbishment of CatholicCare’s women’s refuge Erin’s Place?

CatholicCare Diocese of Broken Bay is partnering with Bespoke & Beautiful Interiors to undertake a much-needed renovation of Erin’s Place, our refuge in Northern Sydney for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.

Erin’s Place is a large 5 bedroom house with multiple living areas, an interview room, and a staff office space. We need to raise funds for works such as painting and flooring and replacement of items such as furniture, decor and appliances.

We need your support.

Together we will significantly improve the lives of hundreds of women and children experiencing the trauma of domestic and family violence.

CatholicCare’s Domestic Violence Response Enhancement (DVRE) team provide after-hours crisis support for women and children who are experiencing domestic violence. Many of these women are referred to our Specialist Homelessness Services (SHS) for transitional accommodation at the refuge.

Specialist caseworkers work closely with the women staying at Erin’s Place to ensure their safety and navigate the legal, logistical and emotional hurdles associated with leaving a violent relationship. Last financial year, the SHS and DVRE teams supported 1,048 clients, including 81 Aboriginal clients.

Domestic and family violence can affect anyone.

In 2016 the ABS* estimated 1 in 6 women had experienced physical or sexual violence from a current or previous cohabiting partner. Between 2016–18, 16 per cent of domestic homicide victims were children**.

As a Design Psychology firm, Bespoke & Beautiful Interiors is uniquely positioned to create environments that are not only functional and beautiful, but also serve to nurture, heal and accelerate recovery from trauma. With a strong focus on evidence-based design, we will be applying trauma informed design principles at Erin’s Place to meet the specific human needs of people in crisis. *Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Personal Safety Survey 2016 https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/health-impacts-family-domestic-and-sexual-violence

**The Australian Institute of Criminology’s (AIC) National Homicide Monitoring Program

Help us create a transformational space and improve the lives of hundreds of victims of domestic violence.

Donate here https://chuffed.org/project/design-for-hope Thank you from all the women – mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts (and their children) who take their first steps toward freedom at Erin’s Place.

PLEASE NOTE WE ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO FUNDRAISE IN WA OR TAS.

Do you have a 5+ bedroom property that CatholicCare can rent?

CatholicCare Diocese of Broken Bay is looking to rent properties for our Permanency Support Program (PSP). This program is funded by Family and Community Services and our current contract is for the next five years. We anticipate that this program will continue indefinitely after this time as the demand for this service is significant.

We are searching for a 5+ bedroom, 2+ bathroom home in the northern part of The Hills region and on the Central Coast. Ideally, the location should be accessible to key transport routes and amenities.

These properties will provide therapeutic residential homes to support up to four young people in our Permanency Support Program. The property will be staffed 24 hours a day.

In return for a rental property, CatholicCare can: • Head lease the property and ensure rent is paid on time • Consider long term tenancy for the right property • Ensure the property is cared for and maintained • Guarantee the property is returned in the original order • Guarantee the property will be managed by paid staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• Provide evidence that we have a long and successful

rental history locally and can provide contact details for agents we currently work with.

• Guarantee that we are responsive to all issues and are contactable 7 days a week.

• Verify that we hold significant insurance cover.

Please contact Rachae Hutton on 0437 131 843 or email rachae.hutton@catholiccaredbb.org.au if you would like to discuss further.

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CATHOLICCARE

CatholicCare’s friendship program ending social isolation for seniors

By Debra Vermeer Kathleen Herz knows what it feels like to be lonely, following the death of her husband some years ago, and it was this experience which prompted her to fill that gap for others by volunteering with CatholicCare Diocese of Broken Bay’s Community Visitor Scheme.

“When I lost my husband, I realised how lonely it was for people being by themselves,” she says.

“I’d been trying to decide how I could volunteer to spend time with people who may be experiencing loneliness when I saw the Community Visitor Scheme advertised in the Manly Daily.”

Kathleen says she was drawn towards visiting elderly people.

“I feel more of a rapport with elderly people than the young,” she says.

So, following an extensive interview and vetting process, she was delighted to be matched up with local aged care facility resident Sophie, who will turn 100 later this year.

She has now been visiting Sophie every fortnight for four years and the two have formed a beautiful friendship.

“I usually spend a couple of hours with Sophie, mostly on the weekend, because I work full-time,” she says.

“For the first few years we would spend time chatting in her room or in the lounge area, or, if it was a sunny day we would go outside.

“Then I thought it would be nice to take her out occasionally, so I asked her family if it was okay for me to do that and now we sometimes go for a drive in the car or have coffee or lunch.

“Recently we went out and got an ice cream and then sat in the car, looking out at the water.

“Occasionally I’ll do something practical, like cut her fingernails, but mostly we just chat.”

Kathleen says Sophie has had a long and interesting life and her reminiscences are fascinating.

“She turns 100 in July and it’s just a delight to have this connection with someone who is older and who has so much to share. She is so entertaining.

She makes me laugh.”

During the COVID lockdown when visitors were banned from aged care facilities, Kathleen would phone Sophie so they could maintain their regular chats.

“That was a difficult time. It’s lonely enough for aged care residents as it is, but during that time they couldn’t have visitors, couldn’t have their regular

entertainment, religious services, outings etc. That was hard.”

Sophie, whose daughter lives in New Zealand and son lives in Sydney where he is a full-time carer for his wife, says she loves Kathleen’s visits.

“I don’t have many other visitors, so I do appreciate Kathleen’s visits,” she says.

“I think we’ve become good friends.

We’ve actually got a lot in common. I was the one chosen for her to visit and I think that was my very good luck. I appreciate her very, very much.”

Rosemary Edgar, who manages CatholicCare’s Community Visitor Scheme, says the program has been going for more than 30 years and there is always a need for new volunteers.

“The COVID period has been tough on the program because people couldn’t visit and then some of our older volunteers dropped out because of their own health vulnerability, so we’ve lost some volunteers who have been with us for a long time,” she says.

“It’s a very flexible program for volunteers – the commitment is usually once a fortnight, any day that suits, between 10.00am and 5.00pm.

It suits a lot of people because they’re not tied to one time. Our volunteers, like Kathleen, are amazing.

“It aims to build connections in the community for people who are socially isolated, blind or vision impaired or who don’t get many visitors.

“It’s a very simple program really.

It’s a friendship program and that is really nice.”

Can you spare an hour or two a fortnight to help? Please contact Rosemary Edgar on 0418 435 304 or email rosemary.edgar@catholiccaredbb.org.au

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CATHOLICCARE

CatholicCare refuge changing lives for women experiencing domestic violence

By Debra Vermeer Imagine coming to Australia from another country with your husband and two young children, only to find yourself living in fear from domestic violence, with nowhere to turn, no income, unable to speak the language and seemingly no way out.

This was the situation for Farida and her children before she found the safety and support of a CatholicCare women’s refuge, which she says has changed her life.

Farida says her abuse began in their country of origin and continued after they arrived in Australia.

When authorities became aware of their situation, her husband cut off her income and even disabled her internet access.

The type of visa she was on precluded her from receiving any government support, including access to Medicare.

Along with the free immigration advice and support, CatholicCare has also arranged for emergency relief and basic support needs, school transfers for the children, access to a Victims’ Services Immediate Supports Package, counselling, childcare and access to government supports such as Medicare.

After contacting a domestic violence crisis centre, Farida and her children were referred to CatholicCare’s women’s refuge, where they have now been living for several months.

Farida says it is her hope that she will be able to stay in Australia where it will be safer for her and her children than being forced to return to the home city of her husband.

“It has been so good,” Farida says through an interpreter. “We’re living here without paying rent, my children are at school and in childcare and they have friends and are happy. Everyone here has helped me.”

“If I go back to his city, he’ll take my children,” she says. “I want to stay here. It’s safer here in Australia.”

Apart from providing accommodation, CatholicCare has also supported Farida in a variety of other ways.

“They gave me a lawyer and now I have a bridging visa. Someone comes to teach me English every Monday too,” she says.

She says she is profoundly grateful for the help she and her children have received from the staff at CatholicCare.

“They are very helpful,” she says.

“They understand our suffering and they are living with us every moment.

We appreciate their help.”

Farida says she would encourage other women in her situation

to seek help in breaking free from domestic violence.

“Here in this country there are rights for women and kids and every woman has a right to say no. I encourage every woman to use her rights and be safe,” she says.

She says while she is still not socialising a lot because she doesn’t want to share details of her living situation, she has found some friends.

“I have one or two friends now and that’s enough for me,” she says.

She is delighted to see her children thriving in their new environment.

“My child at school is playing and laughing with friends and seeing a psychologist. Everything is better and everything is going to be okay in the future and that is very good.”

For more information about CatholicCare’s domestic violence supports call 1800 324 924 or visit www.catholiccaredbb.org.au *Names have been changed to protect privacy

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CATHOLICCARE

Foster carer Roz opens her home to a sibling group in need

By Debra Vermeer With two happy and healthy grown daughters of her own, Central Coast foster carer Roz felt drawn to help other children from more difficult backgrounds to experience a loving, stable home.

Roz began fostering almost 20 years ago when she took part in a short-term respite program with the Department of Community Services.

Over a period of years, she offered 10 children a home-away-from-home during weekends, school holidays or other short periods.

One of the girls she had been fostering in the respite program was in need of a more permanent home and Roz didn’t hesitate to step in. She stayed with Roz for six years until she was 18, when she chose to return to her Mum, and she and Roz remain in touch.

When Roz saw another opportunity for fostering advertised through CatholicCare she jumped at it.

Roz and her daughter Georgia

significant trauma and challenging behaviours, but offering a stable and nurturing home can do much to help turn that around.

Roz was matched with three young sisters, ranging in age from 11 to 14, who have been part of her family for four years now.

“There are always going to be challenges with children who’ve come from traumatic backgrounds and can’t remain in their home and it can certainly get quite busy, going to various appointments and liaising with schools, depending on their circumstances,” she says.

“My girls had grown up and knowing there are so many children out there who are in need of care.

“But it’s so worth it. And when you can see the rewards, it far outweighs any challenges you experience.

“I wanted to provide a nurturing home for the girls where they can be a family, and have family. Just to love them and care for them, to help fill the void, where they’ve missed out.”

“You just want to see them grow up to be successful, loving, respectful and to have all the opportunities that you know your children have had.”

“When I saw it advertised, I just knew I had to do it,” she says.

She says the difficult circumstances which can result in a child being placed into foster care can result in 14 /

Roz says her experience with CatholicCare has been nothing but positive and the team are always there to offer support.

“I can’t fault CatholicCare – their communication and dedication to offering programs and courses to build your fostering skills – it’s excellent.

“In deciding on an agency to go with, they were my first choice and I haven’t looked back.”

Official figures from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare show that nationally, 55,300 children were in Out of Home Care during 2017–18.

“There is a real need for foster carers,” says Roz. “You just want the children to feel safe and happy and have a lovely home life.

I wish there were more people willing to give it a go. I’ve loved every minute of it.”

Can you help a child in need? Please call (02) 4320 7777 or visit www.fostering.org.au

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CATHOLICCARE

My name is Andrew, buffalo is my nickname

By Debra Vermeer

“That’s why I’m painting a buffalo.”

Andrew Italiano likes to keep busy and thanks to his long-standing involvement with CatholicCare’s Disability Futures program that’s no problem. Depending on the day of the week you might find him painting, cooking, working as a barista, sorting fruit and vegetables for the needy, swimming or playing tennis.

Through dedicated disability hubs, community and home-based locations across Northern Sydney, Northern Beaches and the Central Coast, CatholicCare provides a comprehensive range of individual and group programs for those living with disability.

Andrew, 48, has an intellectual disability and a mental health diagnosis, and has been a client of CatholicCare for more than 15 years.

When Broken Bay News caught up with him recently, Andrew was completing his first piece of artwork at the Boonah Creative Arts studio – a painting of a buffalo. Boonah is designed to meet the needs of artists with disabilities. Established in 1995, the space also operates as a gallery, which is open to the public. Proceeds go to the artist, recognising their talent and achievement.

Andrew says he chose a buffalo for his first painting because it has a special meaning for him.

“Buffalo is my nickname,” he says.

“Because I’m big and tough and I fight for people’s rights, especially for women’s rights.

Disability Futures supports people to develop the skills and capabilities they need to gain independence and participate in society, providing opportunities for choice, inclusion and achievement at home and in the community.

Andrew attends Disability Futures activities three days a week and is hoping to make it four days soon.

One day a week he sorts and bags fruit and vegetables and helps set up a grocery delivery point for Live Source, an organisation that directs food to people in need. He has recently been appointed as a team leader for that project.

He says he feels good about helping people.

“I do feel good, because I’m a very compassionate person,” he says.

He starts his week by joining friends

at Disability Futures for swimming or tennis and on Fridays you can find him behind the coffee counter, whipping up a first-class coffee for people who’ve placed an order for their favourite brew.

“I like doing that very much because I’m very sociable. I like having coffee with people,” he says.

Andrew also takes part in the cooking and photography programs.

“I cook a lot of pasta,” he says. “My family is Italian, that’s why. I can even translate Italian for people who can’t understand it.”

Andrew says one of the main reasons he enjoys his days taking part in the Disability Futures program is the caring staff, including the Activity Leader for Andrew’s group, Natasha.

“I’m absolutely very content,” he says.

“These beautiful people treat me like a king. They’re like family to me.

Natasha has got an incredible smile and a heart of gold. They are very protective of me and I introduced CatholicCare to my family and my girlfriend Jess and they all know each other. They’re friends for life.”

He has also made good friends among the other clients and Natasha says he is a much-loved personality around the place.

“Andrew comes from a close-knit and wonderful family and he is so polite, gentle and respectful,” she says.

“He also makes a big contribution. For example, when he’s packing the fruit for Live Sources, he’s a very capable, strong and fit volunteer and his work is very much appreciated.”

Andrew, barista extraordinaire

For more information about CatholicCare’s supports for those living with disability call 1800 324 924 or visit www.catholiccaredbb.org.au 15 /

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ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

The Holy Spirit at work in Broken Bay

By Selina Hasham Throughout the Easter season, a traditional time to celebrate the sacraments of initiation, Bishop Anthony Randazzo commenced the celebration of the sacrament of confirmation, a first for him as the Bishop of Broken Bay. During 2020 the usual celebrations of the sacrament were suspended due to the COVID pandemic, preventing Bishop Anthony from travelling throughout the Diocese to visit communities and confer the sacrament.

From April 2021, beginning with the parish of Kincumber, Bishop Anthony covered the Central Coast, Northern Beaches, North Shore and Hornsby regions and was able to connect with the local parish communities and meet many members of the community of the Church of Broken Bay. In the first month, Bishop Anthony visited seven parishes and one chaplaincy, celebrated 18 confirmation liturgies and confirmed 563 children.

“This is a moment of grace for our Diocese after the restrictions

Bishop Anthony with children confirmed at Sacred Heart, Pymble on 15 May

of COVID last year,” said Bishop Anthony. “And I hope it will be a time of bringing to life the power of the Holy Spirit in our young people and in our community of the Church.”

In the parish of Kincumber, the first 63 children from the local parish and the public school were confirmed. Parish priest Fr Jose Philip, said it was good to see the children and their families back to normal parish life and the confirmations were a great occasion to gather the community.

“Everyone was really happy to see the Bishop present for the confirmations,” said Fr Jose. “Bishop

Anthony made the experience very personal for the children and made a point of including the parents and sponsors in a special way.”

Bishop Anthony encouraged the confirmation candidates to open their lives more deeply to the action of the Holy Spirit. “The gifts of the Spirit provide us an alternative strategy for life – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, truthfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

“All of these lead to greater understanding and eventually to wisdom. The Holy Spirit is at work in each one of us.”

Bishop Anthony celebrated confirmations at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral on the Feast of Pentecost 16 /

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NEWS AND ISSUES

Fr Francis Jordan, Founder of the Salvatorians beatified

By Melissa Loughlin On 15 May, Fr Francis Jordan, Founder of the Salvatorians was beatified in Rome by the Cardinal Vicar of Rome Angelo De Donatis.

“The charismatic intuition of Blessed Francis has guided many women and men of different nations and languages to following the Gospel and thanks to the work of the Salvatorian family, has contributed to the spread of the message of salvation in more than 50 countries,” Cardinal Angelo said during the Mass.

With overseas travel restrictions in place, Salvatorians across Australia were not able to travel to Rome for the event, but our Salvatorian parishes in Broken Bay (Gosford, Pymble and Pittwater) held special celebrations to honour this important event, including celebrating Mass and watching the live stream from Rome.

Blessed Francis Mary of the Cross Jordan was born on 16 June 1848 in Gurtweil, a small town in the Archdiocese of Freiburg, Germany.

After ordination to the priesthood on 21 July 1878, he was sent to Rome, where he spent most of his life. Motivated by the apostolic zeal and desire to make Jesus Christ, Saviour of the world, known and

loved by all people, everywhere, he founded the Society of the Divine Saviour (Salvatorians) in 1881 and the Congregation of the Sisters of the Divine Saviour (Salvatorian Sisters) in 1888. He also organised groups of lay people to take part in the Church’s mission of evangelisation using all ways and means. He died on 8 September 1918 in Tafers, Switzerland.

To achieve the title of Blessed, a miracle must be proven. A young couple expecting a baby in 2014 in Jundiai Brazil, was informed by several medical doctors and specialists that their unborn child was suffering an incurable bone disease (skeletal dysplasia). Being members of a group of Lay Salvatorians, the parents began to pray through the intercession of the Venerable Servant of God, Fr Francis Jordan, inviting other members of the Salvatorian Family to join them. The child was born in a complete healthy condition on 8 September 2014, the anniversary of Fr Francis Jordan’s death. After the required canonical procedures had been successfully completed, the Holy Father, Pope Francis declared that this miraculous healing was worked by God through the intercession of Fr Francis Jordan.

The Salvatorians’ history in Australia

Salvatorian Clergy gathered in Perth from across Australia to celebrate the beatification of Fr Francis Jordan

Fr Greg Skulski SDS prays in front of the image of Blessed Francis Jordan at Gosford Parish

began with an invitation from the Archbishop of Perth, Redmond Prendiville to the head of the Society in Rome, Fr Bonaventura Schweizer.

In response to this invitation, Fr Schweizer sent the first Salvatorian Father, Fr Paul Keyte to Australia in 1961. Fr Paul was appointed to take pastoral care of the newly established parish of Bellevue and then, Greenmount, in the Archdiocese of Perth.

Since then, thanks to the growth and wonderful personal support of the Polish Province of the Salvatorians, the Society has been able to extend, undertaking pastoral care in several parishes in the Perth region, as well as some regional areas of Western Australia. After the turn of the century, the Salvatorian Fathers have also been involved in the ministry of three parishes in Broken Bay and in some Sydney and Melbourne parishes.

A NSW celebration of the Thanksgiving Mass for the Beautification, 60th anniversary of the Salvatorians in Australia and 140th anniversary of the order, will take place at 6.00pm Friday 18 June, at Sacred Heart, Mona Vale in the Pittwater Parish, with Bishop Anthony Randazzo as the main celebrant.

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ACROSS OUR SCHOOLS

Bicentenary of Catholic Education celebrations On Monday 24 May, all parishes connected to a Catholic School across the Diocese of Broken Bay celebrated Mass in their local parish simultaneously with Catholic communities across the country to mark 200 years of Catholic education in Australia.

Bishop Anthony Randazzo, celebrated Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, Waitara.

“Today is an opportunity to give thanks to God for the countless lay men and women, religious sisters and brothers, priests and people, who have worked with the bishops in this country for 200 years so that generations of children have had access to an excellent, well rounded education, forming minds, hearts, and souls,” said Bishop Anthony.

“My sisters and brothers, we must recognise that our Catholic School community depends upon the vitality and curiosity of our young people; the fidelity and dedication of our parents; the wisdom and excellence of our teachers; and the service and leadership of our clergy. Catholic Education is the work and mission of the community of the Church.”

Celebrations are continuing for 200 years of Catholic Education in Australia, marking the bicentenary of the first ‘official’ Catholic school opened in Parramatta in October 1820.

National Catholic Education executive director Jacinta Collins said the National Mass was a highlight of the bicentenary year.

“As a faith community, our National Mass to celebrate 200 years of Catholic education holds significant meaning, particularly on the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians the Patroness of Australia,” Ms Collins said.

“The scale of Catholic education in Australia is unique in

St Leo’s students at the Bicentenary celebrations

the world, serving over 777,000 students and employing over 100,000 staff.

“We are blessed to have the support of governments and our families that ensures we can make a Catholic education accessible to families in every major town and city, and in many regional, rural and remote parts of Australia,” she said.

Masses were held with school representation in most Cathedrals across Australia, as well as a number of individual parishes and schools.

The Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrison provided a written and video message of congratulations to the Catholic education community for the occasion.

“To the Catholic schools, early learning centres and universities of Australia, congratulations on 200 wonderful years of teaching and learning!” said the Prime Minister.

“I’m delighted to join you in celebrating this milestone.”

Watch the Prime Minister’s video message

Background: The bicentenary commemorates the anniversary of the first official Catholic school in Australia, founded in October 1820 by Irish Catholic priest Fr John Therry. The school, which Catholic historians believe was located on Hunter Street in Parramatta, taught 31 students.

This school was transferred to the site of the present St Patrick’s Cathedral in 1837 and was entrusted to the care of the Marist Brothers in 1875. Parramatta Marist High School, now located in Westmead and St Patrick’s Primary, Parramatta trace their origins back to this first school.

Over 200 years Catholic schools have educated millions of young people and today educate one in five Australian students.

For more information go to www.200years.catholic.edu.au

Our Lady of the Rosary students at the Bicentenary Mass at the Cathedral 18 /

Watch the Faith in the Future music video featuring Australian students

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ACROSS OUR SCHOOLS

Outpouring of Support Students at St Brigid’s Catholic College Lake Munmorah raised $1700 for Caritas’ Project Compassion through their annual stall fundraiser in March.

Each Mentor Group developed their own stall to contribute to the fundraiser. Set-ups included baked goods stalls, a putt-putt course, an Ultimate Tag challenge, a dance-off and a mystery box challenge.

“Our College values of wisdom, stewardship, courage and compassion were on full display,” said Monique Smith, Director of Wellbeing.

Support for the event came from across the community, including small local businesses, grandparents, parents and of course, students and staff.

“To say we were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for this event is an understatement,” said Ms Smith.

in their communities and circumstances,” said Year 11 students Bella and Natasha.

“The day was a great one for the College community, which aims to support Caritas in their campaign ‘Be More’ helping those in need worldwide to be more and grow

“Our favourites were the baking stalls, which all had some delicious baked goods from triple-fudge brownies to Donut King donuts!”

Gloves On, Sacred Heart!

On 5 March, students at Sacred Heart Catholic School, Pymble joined over 2000 preschools and primary schools for National Clean Up Schools Day.

“Getting involved with this initiative was especially important for our local community,” said School Captain Hakone Liceralde.

“As proud Australians, we should all demonstrate being model citizens – to proactively raise awareness towards waste management, conservation and making a difference to our environment.”

Inspired by recent community debate about reducing or banning single-use plastics, students at Sacred Heart took this opportunity to reconsider their habits and contribution to waste. The students renewed their commitment to reducing lunch box waste through initiatives such as the Nude Food movement.

“Not only did we collect lots of rubbish, but we also enjoyed time outside and contributed to making our school a cleaner and greener place,” said Hakone.

Chloe, Hazel and Laura

“Our efforts were great in cleaning up the school, let’s hope our parents don’t get the impression that we are good at cleaning up our bedrooms too!”

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ACROSS OUR SCHOOLS

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Climate Warriors

L to R : Year 5 students: Noah, Jacob, Craig Reucassel – ABC personality, Arlo the Koala and his Handler, Jessica and Ruby

Year 5 students at St John the Baptist Catholic School, Freshwater were among the first in the country to play the new Minecraft World, Climate Warriors, when the game was launched at the school by NRMA insurance.

This free interactive game is designed for Primary students and educates children about protecting wildlife, homes and livelihoods against natural disasters such as bushfires.

Set in a custom-built landscape inspired by Australian coastal towns, Climate Warriors uses NRMA real-world data and climate change research, which predicts that

extreme weather events are likely to be more frequent and damaging in the future as the average global mean temperature rises.

Climate change advocate and ABC personality Craig Reucassel, who wrote the book Fight for Planet A, was on hand for the launch.

“With Australia experiencing an increase in the severity and frequency of natural disasters, the next generation is facing a very different future than we ever expected and it’s important we support our children to be adequately prepared,” explained Mr Reucassel.

Full STEAM Ahead Year 12 students from St Paul’s Catholic College, Manly helped design and construct resources, lessons and experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths (STEAM) for children from Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic School, Forestville.

St Paul’s students designed and built resources including 12 art easels, three sound boxes and four storage units.

The students also brainstormed with staff to complete a full-size sound booth.

Those selected for the project included some of St Paul’s best and brightest STEAM students, including Andre Terleckyj who is pursuing his dream of becoming a pilot, Patrick Ell who has begun a carpentry apprenticeship, Geoff Beck who is hoping to study Civil Engineering next year, and Darcy Fleming, who will spend 2022 working at a large farming operation in Southern NSW. 20 /

STEAM teachers at Our Lady of Good Counsel, Jane Bland and Kristine Wadeson, said the school was very excited about the new resources and hoped to collaborate on other STEAM projects like 3D printing and computeraided design.

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ACROSS OUR SCHOOLS

Bullying. No Way! Catholic Schools Broken Bay believe that all members of our community have the right to a learning and work environment free from intimidation, humiliation and hurt.

All schools within our Diocese have a pastoral care policy that provides clear and agreed procedures and strategies for combating bullying in the school, responding to bullying behaviours and protecting and supporting all parties involved.

On the Northern Beaches, the Year 11 Drama Students at Mater Maria Catholic College, Warriewood visit local primary schools in March each year to perform their play ‘The Power of Some’ which is an integral part of their National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence, joining with other schools across Australia to say ‘Bullying. No Way!’ Their play examines various types of bullying and follows the experiences of primary aged characters as they learn the power that bystanders possess – by supporting the characters being bullied and that the bullying can be squashed. “Not everyone has to be best friends, they just need to treat each other fairly” the high schoolers state.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for our students to write and perform a play that speaks loudly to younger students on a topic that impacts many,” said Principal Marc Reicher.

“The play, now 15 years in the making, is both written and performed by our Drama students. We’re thankful that

Mary Rajca speaking at St Pius X

health restrictions lifted just in time for our show to hit the road and we look forward to another great play next year!”

As part of their National Day of Action, St Pius X College, Chatswood invited the senior student leaders from Mercy Catholic College, across the road, to an assembly where their guest speaker was Mary Rajca, an ex-student of Mercy (1972).

Mary spoke of the Mercy Sisters; Jacqui Ford, Patricia McDermott and Joan Doyle who set up a Women’s Refuge in Candela, Peru. Caritas Australia grants enabled the Sisters to address the issues of health care, nutrition and sanitation. A large part of their mission was to halt domestic violence and with the assistance of both private donations and church-group grants they built a women’s centre in 1997, followed by two more and then two childcare centres and a medical clinic.

Ms Rajca commented, “it’s at the women’s centre that the women begin the process of becoming empowered.

There they learn handcrafts, cooking, sewing, all about computers and hairdressing whilst also listening to talks on self-esteem, women’s health and building assertiveness.’’

St Pius and Mercy students at their National Day of Action

The Mercy College Captain, Sophia, shared her view that bullying of any sort is never OK, and called for students to stand up against bullying through education and using their voice.

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ACROSS OUR SCHOOLS

Story Time with Andrew Daddo

Students and staff at St Martin’s Catholic School, Davidson were laughing harder than usual when author, actor and TV presenter Andrew Daddo visited to read some of his 26 children’s books during several sessions at the school recently.

Andrew’s energy, spontaneity and enthusiasm were an instant hit as he hilariously gave his audience an insight as to how he creates his stories which are loosely inspired by his childhood antics.

The students really enjoyed their time with Andrew. Will, from Year 6 commented, “Andrew shared with us how ideas can start off small and showed us how easy it is for them to grow”.

The sessions were part of a community engagement initiative with local pre-schoolers and their parents invited along for their own Story Time with the opportunity to

explore the school afterwards. Local parent Tiana commented how the visit was a huge hit with parents as well as their pre-schoolers.

“It was very entertaining,” said Tiana. “Andrew is so real and engaging.

He was very relatable to us as parents as well as the kids, regaling us with stories of his parenting and the things his children got up to.

Andrew Daddo and Principal Adrian Pulley

“It was a great morning at St Martin’s and I look forward to visiting again soon.”

Venio retreat life changing for Broken Bay students In Latin, venio translates to come, arrive or reach, and so the word was chosen to be the theme of the recent youth retreat hosted St Peter’s Catholic College, Tuggerah. Held in partnership with Catholic Youth Broken Bay, the beautiful St Joseph’s Centre at Kincumber South was the venue.

Wanting more opportunities to explore their faith, senior St Peter’s students took part, along with other students from the Diocese.

“Before the Venio retreat I was sitting on the fence, not knowing whether I believed in God or not. Now I believe in him and am trying to get into a routine of Prayer,” explained one Year 10 student.

“It brings me joy to see the Spirit working in the students, prompting their doubts and fears and allowing them to encounter Christ,” commented one of the staff on retreat.

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While dance was clearly one of the retreat favourites for students, other popular activities included Prayer, Song and St John’s Gospel Scripture “I am a Beloved Child of God” (such a powerful message for all students in such a setting).

Continued on p23

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ACROSS OUR SCHOOLS

Continued from p22

Labyrinths have long been considered a place to reflect and meditate or pray, while walking, and the grounds of St Joseph’s has a lovely garden labyrinth setting which the students used.

They also took part in Guided Meditation, Social debriefs, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Mass celebrated by Bishop Anthony Randazzo.

“Before the retreat I struggled with the idea of faith,”

explained one Year 10 student. “So many individuals had told me their own faith experiences. I was initially unsure how to approach faith, as I wasn’t brought up in a heavy Christian household. After Venio, I became more in touch with my faith and how to embrace Christ in many different aspects of life.”

Another Year 11 student added, “Since Year 7, I wasn’t that faithful, always doubting, but after Venio, it made me realise God’s love, and become more faithful, and turned it around for good.”

Uplifting times ahead!

Catholic Schools Broken Bay (CSBB) are seeing a renewed interest in their offering of a Catholic education to local families. Starting the year with an uplift in enrolment numbers for 2021, the numbers of visitors at their recent school open days is also following the trend with a lift in numbers year-on-year. Recent research has shown parents are looking for not just professional teachers and student achievement but also that sense of community a faith-based education offers.

New principal at St Cecilia’s Catholic School, Wyong, Marta Chylewska, commented, “Parents were so pleased to hear of all the transition opportunities the children will have prior to starting at St Cecilia’s next year. They felt reassured that if their child can engage in regular playgroup sessions and a thorough transition program, held at the school, will give their child a positive, more familiar, and socially connected start to their primary schooling years.”

Open Days as something they want to be a part of and contribute to. Parents feel supported and are impressed with the pastoral care and wellbeing initiatives we offer.

They appreciate the importance we place on the education of the whole child – body, mind and spirit.”

In addition to these buoyant Open Day numbers and the 2021 enrolment uplift, CSBB have also recently updated their enrolment policy and are trialling a new online enrolment enquiry form that will streamline the process for parents. From 2022 parents will be able to complete their child’s enrolment form online, a welcomed update on the current procedure.

Lou Dogao, Principal at Holy Family Catholic School, Lindfield commented, “Parents make mention of the welcome and feeling of belonging, the strong sense of community shown by our school when attending our

L to R : Olivia, Anastasia and Cassy from Year 6 welcomed visitors to Holy Family

Students welcomed visitors to St Cecilia’s on their Open Day 23 /

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ACROSS OUR SCHOOLS

Our Role Models of the Future Two hundred and fifty Year 6 students from 32 schools gathered on Zoom for the annual Year 6 Leaders’ Day. COVID restrictions meant that the usual in-person event had to be cancelled, but the day was adapted to be delivered entirely on Zoom.

Students engaged in group prayer, a pop quiz, presentations by guest speakers, and met in smaller groups in breakout rooms.

Manly players Christian Tuipulotu, Kaeo Weekes, Morgan Boyle and Lachlan Croker

Manly Sea Eagles teach Resilience and Respect Students at St John’s Catholic School, Narraweena had an exciting visit from their favourite NRL team, the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles recently. Local families there for the St John’s Open Day, were also thrilled to catch a glimpse of the football players.

Sea Eagles players Morgan Boyle, Lachlan Croker, Christian Tuipulotu and Kaeo Weekes were joined by NRL Game Development Officer Darcy Hardman to give a presentation from the NRL Inspire Health and Wellbeing program.

Bishop Anthony Randazzo spoke about ordinary people delivering extraordinary actions, and referred to St Carlo Acutis, who is sometimes proclaimed as the ‘patron saint of the internet’.

“Bishop Anthony gave a really motivating speech,” said Mia, one of the Year 6 Leaders.

Jackson, a Year 11 student from MacKillop Catholic College, Warnervale and NSW Young Volunteer of the Year in 2020, spoke about working in his community to support Coast Shelter, a local charity providing accommodation and support programs.

“It was really inspiring,” said Year 6 Leaders Julia and Zoe. “Their positive responses to the day suggest that these Year 6 Leaders will be excellent role models in their communities as they come to know Christ and work towards being the best that they can be,” observed Catholic Schools Broken Bay Education Officer (Evangelisation & Catechesis) Kerry Power.

The players talked about health and wellbeing and highlighted the importance of resilience and respect, as well as gratitude.

“This visit made the students feel very special,” said Principal Mark Bateman.

“They were a little star-struck and in awe that the Manly players took the time to visit them at their school and to deliver a presentation just for them.”

As part of the Open Day activities, local families toured the school with a Year 6 student, met with the Principal and these future students also took part in student-led art and craft activities plus had fun tackling obstacle courses.

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Year 6 leaders listened to Bishop Anthony Randazzo’s talk over Zoom this year

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ACROSS OUR SCHOOLS

New state-of-the-art building to help educate St Lucy’s students Students with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder will explore and develop their capabilities and independence in a new, state-of-the-art facility at St Lucy’s School in Wahroonga.

St Lucy’s, an independent Catholic School, welcomed Most Rev Anthony Randazzo and the Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell to officially open the $15.3 million Dominic Centre at St Lucy’s main campus in Wahroonga on Tuesday 18 May. Bishop Anthony blessed the Dominic Centre at the special ceremony which included performances by St Lucy’s students, and welcomed many guests from Dominican Education Australia, who are the trustees of St Lucy’s School.

St Lucy’s Principal, David Raphael, said the independent Catholic school is transitioning into a K-12 school by 2024 and that the Dominic Centre will be a dynamic place of learning for Primary aged students.

“At St Lucy’s, we place a great emphasis on building student capabilities in communication, social engagement, independence, technology, literacy and numeracy through a range of instructional methods including explicit instruction,” Mr Raphael said.

“This new facility helps us to deliver on those objectives with its 16 new general learning areas – each with two adjoining complementary learning spaces – two large activity spaces and modern augmentative technology.

Principal, David Raphael and St Lucy’s students

“The new classrooms incorporate two kitchen sinks of varied height as well as microwaves, fridges, adjustable height benches and a large central table. It is designed for communal meals and the delivery of learning designed to increase independence and living skills.

Mr Raphael said students with disabilities, like all students, benefitted from the opportunity to learn in an innovative environment and have access to state-of-the-art technology so that their educational journey is meaningful and exciting.

“Our Dominic Centre is a beautiful and impressive facility for our school community and says to each one of our students: ‘You deserve the very best’.

“St Lucy’s has been able to produce a facility that provides students with places to meet and collaborate, explore new ideas, eat, relax and create.”

Bishop Anthony Randazzo blesses the new Dominic Centre 25 /

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ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

A great partnership, strong foundation of faith and Olympic Gold: John and Wendy Devitt celebrate 60 years of marriage

By Debra Vermeer When a teenage Wendy Hogan met John Devitt on the school bus, she had no idea that their love story would span more than 60 years and produce four children, seven grandchildren, and four Olympic Swimming Medals.

John was already a serious swimmer by the time the two met as teenagers.

“We met on the school bus,” says Wendy. “John was at Parramatta Marist and I was across the road at Our Lady of Mercy College. We would’ve been about 15.

“It started out as a fairly long friendship because John was training and working very hard on his swimming, so we only saw each other on weekends for a while.

“The first time we went out together

was to the parish dance and my parents came with us!”

Diploma in Pathology and working at St Vincent’s Hospital.

John says Wendy, who is the sister of Australian comedy legend and actor Paul Hogan, was very patient and understanding as he pursued his dream of Olympic Gold.

“We wrote a lot of letters during those years,” she says. “Until John went to the Rome Olympics, that’s how our relationship grew, with letters.”

“I was keen to go to the (Melbourne) Olympics in ’56 and Wendy was very understanding of all the work involved. She was wonderful really and that strengthened our relationship over time,” he says.

John came home from the Melbourne Games with a Silver Medal in the 100m Freestyle and a Gold in the 4 x 200m Relay and his eyes firmly set on competing in the next Games in Rome.

Wendy says that despite the long separations, she was fully occupied during those years, studying for her

Wendy wasn’t able to accompany John to Rome in 1960, but she listened to his big race on the radio.

It wasn’t until several days later when the film footage was flown home to Australia that she could see it on the television.

Listening at home, it was a tense time for Wendy and other family members, as John approached the wall neck and neck with the American Lance Larson. A difference among timekeepers about who touched first resulted in an agonising 20 minute delay in announcing the winner, but following a conference between the judges and the referee, the judge’s decision declared John the winner with the official time of 55.2 seconds, an Olympic record.

John also won Bronze in the 4x200m Freestyle Relay with John Konrads, Murray Rose and David Dickson.

Over his 13-year swimming career, apart from his four Olympic Medals, John won three Gold Medals at the 1958 Cardiff British Empire and Commonwealth Games, broke 14 World Records (four individual), and won 13 Australian Championships (three individual).

John and Wendy Devitt 26 /

Returning home from Rome, John retired from competitive swimming and married his sweetheart Wendy in February 1961 at her parish,

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ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

Blessed (now Saint) Oliver Plunkett in Harris Park.

They settled in Beacon Hill on the Northern Beaches, building a home in which they would go on to raise their four children and remain living until several years ago when they downsized to North Narrabeen.

John joined the Speedo swimwear company as a trainee and went on to become its European Manager and then Director of the company. That journey took the family to the United Kingdom to live for three years from 1970-73.

He later moved into swimming coaching and became a member of the Australian Olympic Committee and then its Vice-President. He attended every Olympic Games from 1956 to 2004 and was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1979 and the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1986. John was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his services to swimming and sports administration in 1989.

“I could do all of this because I had a great wife who let me do what I had to do,” he says.

“But at each stage along the way, we always took the big decisions together, like when we moved to the UK for instance. We always talked things over and decided together.”

John says the Olympic movement is like a big family and its members have a special bond.

“I’ve been fortunate to see the Australian Olympic movement grow and develop over the years. There’s no comparison now to how it was back in my day. We had a team of 250 in 1956

John Devitt in his Olympic swimming days

and there will be well over 400 going to Japan this year,” he says.

“It’s a challenge you set yourself and if you’re fortunate that everything works and you’re at your top when you’re competing, and you get that opportunity then it is very, very special.”

Wendy says their two boys and two girls enjoyed the water on the Northern Beaches but never took up swimming seriously.

“They had their own sporting life and other interests,” she says.

Due to COVID restrictions in February, the couple celebrated their 60th anniversary quietly, by going out for lunch together.

“Because of the way things were with COVID, we decided not to have a big family event, although the family members did come and see us in smaller numbers, and celebrate with us that way,” she says.

“We went to Mass (at The Lakes Catholic Parish where they are parishioners) on the actual day of our anniversary and Fr Robert (Borg) presented us with a blessing from the Bishop which was very nice.”

Their shared faith has been a foundation for John and Wendy through the years.

“It’s been part of the process of a happy life,” Wendy says. “We’ve been in some good parishes over the years and good Catholic schools for the children.”

She says they’re grateful for their life together, especially now, aged in their 80s, as their friendship circle grows smaller.

“I think it’s about cooperation and having that love there and showing it,” she says.

“The children have been wonderful and we’ve still got each other, so we must be doing something right.”

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CatholicCare caseworker Jo with Natasha

CatholicCare on housing as a fundamental human need

By Debra Vermeer Finding yourself homeless must rank as one of the most challenging things that could happen in life, but CatholicCare Diocese of Broken Bay’s Supported Temporary Accommodation (STA) program helps not only put an emergency roof over people’s heads, but assists them into more stable housing and a brighter future.

“Being homeless is stressful,” says Sean MacKinnon, Practice Manager for CatholicCare’s housing and homelessness programs.

“Housing is a fundamentally important human need, and noone functions the way they would normally function when they find themselves homeless. Our job is to help people through that situation.

“We are funded by the Department of Communities and Justice to provide 28 /

crisis accommodation and link people to key services. We provide a case management model of support. It’s very short-term and intense and our work has to happen very quickly.”

Sean says his small team of dedicated case workers provides practical and emotional support to the clients who are referred to them.

“We’re dealing with people who come from a long history of things not going particularly well. Mental health is a huge factor for us, as well as substance abuse and histories of inter-generational trauma.

“It’s important that our clients feel safe and supported. Our super-lean team does everything in our power to improve their situations.”

Ken, who is aged in his 60s, was referred to CatholicCare’s STA program when he had nowhere to go after being released from

hospital following treatment for a chronic condition.

The Department of Housing found him emergency accommodation in a local motel, but the upstairs location of his room wasn’t suitable for his medical condition.

“They organised for Sean to pick me up and take me to a transitional residence and I was there for five weeks,” Ken says.

“In that five weeks, Sean worked his backside off to find me a ground floor unit for permanent accommodation and I’ve been here now since May 2017.

“I’m pretty sure he more or less saved my life. And he’s still very caring about me, checking in on me all the time to make sure I’m going OK.” Julie found herself suddenly homeless when the place she was living in with her young adult son caught fire.

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“I woke up and the room was full of white smoke,” she says. “The firies came and did all they could to put it out but by 5.00am we were homeless.”

Julie, who is on NDIS disability support due to mental health issues, got in touch with her coordinator, who contacted the Department of Housing, who then referred her to CatholicCare for emergency accommodation.

“You go into a state of shock for a while when something like that happens to you,” she says.

“But Sean took care of everything.

He moved us into the temporary accommodation, and he was always available on the phone. He handled the paperwork and he re-escalated an existing application I had in with the Department of Housing.

“Now, we are in a two-bedroom villa, with a little yard and it’s great.

CATHOLICCARE

“It felt like a rollercoaster for a while but now I’m starting to get back on my feet a bit.”

member of the STA team) would come and see me every weekday. She was always in contact and supporting me.”

Natasha, who is mother of a young daughter, found herself without a home when the grandfather of her daughter, with whom she’d been staying, suddenly had to move into residential aged care.

After applying for 23 places to rent, Natasha was successful in securing a private rental and she’s been living there a year now, while studying to become a drug and alcohol counsellor.

“It happened so fast,” she says.

“I was stressing out. I thought, ‘what am I going to do?’”

She says the referral to CatholicCare’s STA program provided a muchneeded lifeline, which went beyond providing a safe and secure roof over her head.

“It kept me stable and on my feet,” she says.

“As soon as I got into it, we just connected, straight away. Jo (a

Sean says it is stories like these that inspire his team to go all out for their clients.

“To be a part of a person’s journey that everyone put in the ‘too hard basket’ – to see them gain some stability and for people to see the good in them – they are really wonderful stories to be part of,” he says.

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BBN / JUNE 2021

ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

How Paul changed his life with a message from God

By Debra Vermeer Paul Cimino says he used to be prideful and arrogant, always needing to come first at all costs, but an encounter with God in prayer late one night changed all that, and taking part in the Alpha course through a local parish helped explain the truth of Jesus and the love of God.

“But as an adult, I went along my whole life thinking I had it all sorted,” he says.

“I worked harder and harder and made more and more money but I was always incomplete. There was always something missing.

“I’d just finished building my house at Collaroy Beach and it was beautiful, but I still felt I hadn’t completed anything.”

“I did Alpha last year with St Ives Parish and it was kind of like a way to make sense of this overwhelming experience of God that I’d had about three years ago,” Paul says.

A turning point came when Paul realised that his relationship with his three sons was suffering because of how he was acting around them.

Born into a Catholic family, Paul says religion didn’t play a big role in the home as he grew up and he experienced a number of challenges in his life as a young person.

“One night that really hit home for me and I went into my bed at about 10 or 11 o’clock and dropped to my knees and just prayed to God and I was in tears,” he says.

“And a message came through and I knew it was God and He said: ‘I gave you eyes to see everything but you judged’.

“Then, while I was there on my knees I went through my whole life and kind of saw everything I did. All my sins and transgressions. I was rude and arrogant. I always had to be the best, whether it was at footy or soccer or at work or at home. I always had the attitude that ‘I’ll beat ‘em’. No matter how much money I earned it was never enough.

“I could see that something sinister was going on. This battle was going on. And I could see clearly that the biggest sin I had was pride.

“It was a reflection of all my stuff that I wasn’t able to see before. And even though I hadn’t been religious before then, I knew it was to do with God and Jesus.”

Paul says that night changed everything for him.

“Since that moment, I literally turned everything around,” he says. “I couldn’t stop crying for nights and nights and just couldn’t go back.

“I sold my construction business because I couldn’t act in a certain manner anymore. Even things like trying to barter a better deal, I couldn’t do it anymore.

“I just want to spend every day at home, spending time with my kids and making up for how I’ve been.

They’re aged 19, 17 and 13 now and their childhood wasn’t easy because I wasn’t easy.”

Paul Cimino and family 30 /

Paul says that after his conversion experience he felt a bit lost because

BBN / JUNE 2021

ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

he didn’t know anyone he could talk to about his new relationship with God. So when his friend Jo invited him to take part in the Alpha course through Corpus Christi Parish at St Ives, he jumped at the chance.

Alpha is a series of interactive sessions exploring the Christian faith. It provides the opportunity for participants to explore life and the Christian faith, to ask questions, and share their point of view in an open, friendly environment. Alpha is not a program but an ‘experience’. Each session normally includes a meal, a talk and small group discussion, where no question is too simple or too hard.

“The Alpha group was so good for me,” he says. “Because it gave me the chance to talk about what had happened to me.

“It’s like this huge thing happens to you and everyone is looking at you

like you’re an alien, because you’ve changed. Meeting like-minded people in the Alpha group, allowed me to breathe again. At Alpha everyone understands, and they love you.

“It also helped me in adding to what I understood about Jesus. It was like opening up all these little windows in my mind that had been closed and a lot of things fell into place.

“I made so many nice friends through Alpha.”

Due to COVID, the St Ives Parish Alpha group ran online last year, but Paul says a highlight was the chance to all meet in person for a retreat day at Terrey Hills at the end of the course.

Paul is now attending Mass regularly either at Mona Vale or St Ives with his Alpha group members who keep in touch via a WhatsApp group.

He says that learning about the unconditional love of Jesus for each person has given him a model for his own life.

“I’ve kind of paraphrased that unconditional love of Jesus into the saying, ‘Whatever it takes’. And that’s how I live my life now. I’ll do whatever it takes to love my wife and sons better and whatever it takes to be more compassionate and understanding and to live a better life. That’s my whole focus now.”

Paul says he loves waking early, before dawn, and heading down to the beach for a swim, where he feels close to God and spends time listening to what God is revealing to him about his life.

“I’m just going to follow, step by step.

No matter what happens, I always look up now. I feel complete in having been able to change that part of my life and wherever He takes me, I’ll go.”

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Becoming equipped Missionary Disciples through prayer

By Hazel Lim, Parish Mission Support Officer, Evangelisation Broken Bay Last year, amidst the flurrying noise of the pandemic, lockdown, social restrictions and change, I had the privilege to go on a silent retreat.

Three days of quiet contemplation and prayer, listening to the Holy Spirit, encountering Jesus in the most intimate way, and simply sitting in our Father’s embrace and abiding in his love.

the Gospel. To do this effectively, I realised that we must first experience the joy of the Gospel ourselves. We are invited to a renewed personal encounter with Jesus Christ each day – to spend time with Him, talk and listen to Him and receive His love so that like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, our hearts burn within us and are filled with overflowing love. With this, we might then receive an intense desire to share this love in order to ‘speak of the beloved, to point him out, to make him known to the world’1.

My intention going into the retreat was for God to reveal in me how to be a missionary disciple. In those days of intense prayer, God not only revealed His mission to me, but nourished, restored and equipped me to live as His beloved daughter and missionary disciple. He continues to mold and form me as I deepen my personal relationship with Him.

Prayer is a gift from God2 and through the Holy Spirit is an opportunity to enter in communion with Him. In these times, God engages our heart and reveals Himself to us – His mission, priorities, passion and will. He allows us to see ourselves and the world through His eyes, align our desires to His will and become more like Him.

As missionary disciples, we are called to evangelise and proclaim the joy of

Jesus, our teacher, exemplified this.

He prayed before decisive moments

32 /

of His mission3 and prayed in every aspect of His ministry here on earth.

Prayer was the humble and trusting commitment of Jesus’ human will united to the loving will of the Father.

We are all called to emulate and follow the tradition of prayer so that our faith can take shape and grow. Prayer is a vital necessity and inseparable to Christian life (CCC 2754-5). In Bishop Anthony’s pastoral letter, he reminds us that we need to spend time with the Lord, read the Scriptures and continue our personal relationship with Jesus.

“By listening and meditating upon the Word of God, we will become people of the Word who are better equipped for the mission of Evangelisation”.

We can express our prayers in different ways. At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the disciples inspiring them to pray. It is the same Spirit that allows and stimulates new expressions of prayer in us. The Catechism of the Catholic

BBN / JUNE 2021

VOCATIONS

Church (2626-43) offers these basic forms of prayer: 1. Prayer of Blessing and Adoration In this reciprocal prayer, we pray a blessing to God as a response to the blessings we receive from Him; and in turn, He blesses us further. We also pray in adoration, we exalt and worship our Saviour and King, acknowledging our humility and total dependence on God. This is especially crucial as we carry out our missionary work, recognising that we can only do things in Christ who strengthens us. (Philippians 4:13) 2. Prayer of Petition Asking for forgiveness is the initial movement in this form of prayer.

When we recognise that we are sinners and ask for God’s mercy, our relationship with Him can be restored and then we can become more receptive to His graces. We can ask God for our spiritual and physical needs, aligned with the desire to fulfil God’s Divine plan.

3. Prayer of Intercession We seek the good of others through prayers of intercession.

As missionary disciples, we pray and intercede for the needs of others and especially those who reject God. 4. Prayer of Thanksgiving We testify to what God has done and is doing in our lives and the lives of others. St Paul writes “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

5. Prayer of Praise We recognise that God is God and, therefore, we give glory to Him “beyond what He does but because HE IS” (CCC 2639). As His children, we celebrate who He is and what He has done for us. The Eucharist contains and expresses all forms of prayer: it is “the pure offering” of the whole Body of Christ to the glory of God’s name and… it is the “sacrifice of praise.”

prolonged moments of adoration, of prayerful encounter with the word, of sincere conversation with the Lord, our work easily becomes meaningless; we lose energy as a result of weariness and difficulties, and our fervour dies out. The Church urgently needs the deep breath of prayer…for without prayer all our activity risks being fruitless and our message empty.”4 In my own experience of prayer, I am continually affirmed in my identity as a child of God; restored through His mercy and healing; and nourished through His Word and pure and Divine love. Suited with the full armour of God and through the grace of the Holy Spirit, I am equipped to go boldly as His missionary disciple, witnessing and proclaiming His Gospel, so that others may encounter the person of Jesus Christ and experience fullness of life.

Evangelii Gaudium 264 CCC2559 CCC2600 4 Evangelii Gaudium 259 1

2

3

Pope Francis reminds us that “without

Being The Community Christ Calls Us To Be

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BBN / JUNE 2021

NEWS AND ISSUES

Giving through your Will A gift in your Will is one of the greatest commitments you can make to help provide for the future of our Catholic faith. Pope Francis said, “Authentic faith always involves a deep desire to leave this place a better place than we found it.”

If you need to prepare your Will or have considered supporting the future of your Catholic faith through a gift in your Will, you are invited to a free seminar at The Light of Christ Centre.

Cecilia Castle will be presenting a free education seminar on Wills, Powers of Attorney and Enduring Guardianships, organised by the Diocese at 2.00pm on Saturday 17 July in Waitara. Everyone is welcome to attend, but numbers are strictly

limited. For bookings please contact David Armstrong at david.armstrong@bbcatholic.org.au or www.trybooking.com/BPNGJ. ‘‘The giving and receiving of a gift are dynamic acts of love! Sometimes we are able to see the reaction of the recipient of our given gift and sometimes not.

It seemed only natural that I would continue the ‘gift of giving’ through a bequest in my will. In this way I believe that others can continue good works of mercy with my support. It is my way to continue to bless their work.”

– Kerry Power

As a teacher I have seen first-hand the wonderful acts of love that are transferred on a daily basis. Planned giving and Diocesan Works have always been a regular part of my donation schedule. I am inspired by the direction of funds toward schools such as St Edmund’s and St Lucy’s and the rewarding, yet challenging work of Catechists in our State Schools.

Kerry Power

Information Seminar Wills, Enduring Guardianship and Powers Of Attorney

A free seminar for the Catholic community of Broken Bay, featuring an expert legal adviser to answer your questions about Wills and Elder Law topics.

Date: Time: Venue:

Saturday 17 July 2021 2.00pm – 3.30pm The Light of Christ Centre, Yardley Avenue, Waitara, 2077 Catering: Light refreshments provided Register: www.trybooking.com/BPNGJ Or contact David Armstrong to register on 02 8379 1664 or david.armstrong@bbcatholic.org.au

Presenter:

Cecilia Castle,

Solicitor, Castle Lawyers Cecilia Castle, principal of Castle Lawyers, will present and answer questions from her legal expertise of over 30 years. Cecilia is regular speaker and writer on legal topics, a resident of Hornsby Shire and parishioner in our Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay.

www.bbcatholic.org.au

34 /

Dennis Davis and family

Dennis Davis celebrates ANZAC Day in style

By Melissa Loughlin Dennis Davis, one of the last surviving Rats of Tobruk from World War II, had a great day celebrating ANZAC Day this year. 100-year-old Dennis (turning 101 this month), was the star of the day, being interviewed by many media outlets and featuring on the nightly news on most TV channels in Sydney.

Supported by his granddaughter Fiona Brown, who is the Education Officer Evangelisation and Catechesis in Catholic Schools Broken Bay, Dennis made his way up Elizabeth Street to the cheers of the crowd. The crowds for the ANZAC Day march were smaller than usual, adhering

to COVID safe rules, but for Dennis, attending his 60th march, the day was particularly special.

After the event was cancelled in 2020, he was so happy to be back marching to honour and remember his mates, all now gone, who he served with in the Australian Army from 1940-1945, in Tobruk, El Alamein, New Guinea and Borneo. Dennis was a driver in the army, delivering ammunition to the front line, dodging German planes who were targeting the trucks.

Dennis has always been a man of great faith, and during the war, he prayed every morning to live through the day,

Dennis Davis and Fiona Brown with the Hornsby Cathedral Young Adults group

and every night to make it through to the morning.

“There was quite a few unfortunately that didn’t make it through,” said Dennis. “But I am thankful to God that I was one of those that did.”

Dennis is a parishioner at St Bernadette’s Parish at Castle Hill.

Every morning at 6.00am, Dennis walks 1.5km to the church to attend Mass and pray the rosary. He leads the first decade of the rosary every day. Almost blind with macular degeneration, Dennis doesn’t let that interfere with his routine.

On the Tuesday night before ANZAC Day, Dennis was a special guest speaker at Hornsby Cathedral Parish Young Adults group, Boundless (led by his granddaughter Fiona). Dennis spoke about his time in the war, his faith and about the special meaning ANZAC Day has for him and his family.

The young adults were all inspired by Dennis and his stories.

Dennis was married to Margaret for 61 years, until her passing in 2004. He still lives on his own in a retirement village, and is supported by his two daughters, seven grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren, most of whom were there on ANZAC Day to cheer him on in the march.

35 /

A Quincentennial Flores de Mayo

By Roslyn Rajasingam “Flores de Mayo” or Flowers of May, a festival celebrated in the month of May in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary, organised by the Broken Bay Filipino Chaplaincy in Waitara was held on 9 May 2021.

At Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral, this has been an annual event where parishioners, mostly Filipinos, gather first around the Grotto of Our Lady outside the Cathedral to pray the rosary before the flower offering. A Marian hymn, either in Spanish or Filipino, would be sung in between the Mysteries. Prayers were offered for our world, anxiously awaiting the end of this pandemic and for our leaders, to put aside their own interests and

strive to give every person, especially the poor and vulnerable, access to proper vaccines and health care.

The whole church was decked with flowers and logo of the 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines. Being a quincentennial celebration, the event was live streamed to link us to the rest of the world, our GIFTED TO GIVE, in action. Those unable to travel to Waitara joined us virtually.

After the rosary, people processed to the church to offer their flowers to Mary (placed below Our Lady’s statue, now next to St Joseph’s), led by little girls beautifully dressed in white with dainty flowers in their heads.

Mass followed straight after, which

was presided by Fr David Ranson, Vicar General and Parish Priest, Our Lady of Dolours, Chatswood.

Concelebrants were Fathers Nico Lariosa SJ, Faculty Member, St Aloysius College, North Sydney, Emman Chuntic CS Assistant Priest, Warringah Parish, Raul Balute, Parish Priest, Wyong and Peter de Souza, Dean, Hornsby Cathedral Parish.

Deacons Roberto Corpuz, Aldrin Valdehueza and Roger Delmonte served at Mass.

The prayers of the faithful were in several Filipino dialects. One of the highlights of the Mass was a heart-warming action song of the Quincentennial theme song, “Awit ng Misyon” (song of the Mission) presented by the very young in white attire.

Photography: Elmer Medalla 36 /

BBN / JUNE 2021

ACROSS OUR DIOCESE

Another variation was the Blessing of the Sacred Statues, including the Holy Family and Our Lady of Fatima, brought by the attendees to bring God’s blessings into their homes as their families are encouraged to pray together.

The Waitara Filipino choir, led by a young conductor, with young musicians, provided uplifting and inspiring Filipino hymns.

Keeping theFaith

alive

When you hear the word ‘charity’ what comes to mind? Perhaps it is feeding the hungry, caring for the sick and sheltering the homeless.

These are vital material needs and the Catholic Church has carried them out since her inception.

But is that it? Is the Church only here to fill stomachs and tend to wounds? Actually, even if the Church could eradicate all poverty and disease for all time that would not be her greatest gift to the world. The Church’s greatest gift to the world is Jesus Christ. The Church exists to primarily sustain the spiritual needs of its people.

Herein lies the uniqueness of Aid to the Church in Need (ACN). We are the only international Catholic charity focused on the spiritual and pastoral needs of suffering Christians. Our mission is to nurture the faith where the faithful are oppressed and persecuted.

The Mass was attended by almost 300 enthusiastic people wearing masks and guided by COVID-19 marshals. An event hosted by Filipinos will not be complete without food!

Packed native delicacies were provided for every Mass attendee by generous donors, within and outside the Parish.

Members of the Filipino Chaplaincy in the other Deaneries of the

Diocese were also present. A big thank you to the organising committee, led by Dick Pamilar, guided by the Pastoral Coordinator of the Chaplaincy, Deacon Roberto Corpuz.

Two more quincentennial events will be celebrated by the Chaplaincy in East Gosford (11 July) and in Dee Why (2 October) highlighting the two Filipino saints and the first baptism.

We support the Church where the Church cannot support herself. We form priests, fund poor nuns, build churches, provide pastoral transport, train catechists and distribute Catholic books and media.

In short we offer faith, hope and love to our brothers and sisters who cry out to us for Jesus.

Each year we support more than 5000 projects in 140 countries. We need people who will help us to carry the light of faith into those places where it is at risk of going out.

Will you help us to keep the faith alive?

As a sign of our thanks, make an offering and opt to receive a set of rosary beads blessed

by Pope Francis.

Please accept my offering of $ I enclose a cheque/money order payable to Aid to the Church in Need OR debit my Visa / Mastercard:

Expiry date: ______ / _______

My personal details: (BLOCK LETTERS PLEASE) Title: ________ Name: ____________________________

Signature:

Address: ______________________________________

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Suburb: _______________________________________

BBN1

State: _____________ Postcode: ________________

Yes, please send me the blessed rosary beads.

Phone: _______________________________________ Email: ________________________________________

Send the completed form to Aid to the Church in Need PO Box 335 PENRITH NSW 2751, call 1800 101 201, or arrange your offering online at www.aidtochurch.org/BBN 37 /

BBN / JUNE 2021

VOCATIONS

It already feels like family

By Aditya Sugiarto Hi, I am Adi. I have joined the Diocese of Broken Bay as a fifth year Seminarian, moving from the Archdiocese of Sydney. I would like to use this opportunity to firstly thank the Diocese for having me and for the warm reception that I was privileged to encounter from day one. Despite being in Broken Bay for only a few months, it is surprising to me that it already feels like being part of a big family. It is hard to put it in words, but something feels familiar around here, it clicks with me.

For this, I would like to extend my gratitude to Bishop Anthony Randazzo, Fr David Ranson, my spiritual director, Fr Edmond Travers MSC, and finally, the tireless Vocations team.

The Australian National University in Canberra. I spent five years completing my undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

A little bit about myself: I was born in Jakarta and migrated to Singapore when I was in primary school. I then moved to Shanghai for high school.

Prior to joining the seminary, I served with the Singapore Armed Forces for two years and I studied Commerce & Business Information Systems at

Professionally, I have worked in finance, more specifically in private wealth management. Now, I have been placed under the tutelage of Fr Peter de Souza at the Hornsby Cathedral Parish with two academic subjects left before obtaining my theological degree.

Aditya Sugiarto

What kind of priest do I want to be?

I think the world could have more merciful priests who are both in touch with their own brokenness and have personally truly experienced the constancy of God’s love in their lives.

I know first and foremost that I am a sinner yet loved by a faithful God. With your prayers and patience, it is my greatest hope as well as privilege that I would be able to journey with you and be a good servant to my ministry.

SUBSCRIBE TO BBNEWS, OUR NEW FORTNIGHTLY ENEWSLETTER FROM THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BROKEN BAY. Complementing the quarterly Broken Bay News magazine, BBNews will highlight the activity and stories of the Church in Broken Bay and beyond.

Get news directly to your inbox every second Friday and keep up to date with all the latest news from the Diocese, Parishes, Schools and CatholicCare.

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Joseph House

For young Catholic men Joseph House is a young men’s house of discernment, an innovative living space for young Catholic men to uncover the call to holiness that comes through baptism. Residents will contemplate, pray and actively discern their vocation, whilst being active in the world maintaining regular work, studies and daily life.

• Accommodation for six men • Generous sized bedrooms • Common areas for community life • Chapel • Outdoor spaces • Located in Willoughby in the Parish of Lower North Shore • Close to public transport Joseph House is an initiative of Bishop Anthony Randazzo for the Diocese of Broken Bay and is governed by a House Council.

The House was opened and blessed by Bishop Randazzo on 1 May 2021, the Feast of St Joseph the Worker.

Throughout a 12-18 month stay, the young men will experience community living and explore an openness to discover where God might be leading them as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Who am I? How is God calling me?

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Joseph House is under the patronage of St Joseph, the spouse of Mary and earthly father of Jesus. The men who live in Joseph House will be inspired by the virtue and holiness of St Joseph, and be formed in the way of discipleship with Jesus Christ.

Call Vocations Broken Bay on 02 9484 1427 or email vocations.ministry@bbcatholic.org.au www.bbcatholic.org.au/josephhouse