Catholic Life June 2010 by Catholic Diocese of Sale

Catholic Life

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First full color issue

Publication of the Diocese Diocese of of Sale Sale

What’s News

Bishop’s pastoral letter - Lift-out

ISSUE 140100 ISSUE

June 2010 November

Rwandan survivor to speak - Page 7

Bushfire scholarship awarded - Page 19

Newest school blessing OFFICER - The newest school in Sale Diocese has been officially opened and blessed at a whole school liturgy. Bishop Christopher Prowse blessed each room of St Brigid’s Primary School by sprinkling holy water during the ceremony. The school opened at the start of this year and now has 50 students. Principal Ken Gale welcomed everyone to the ceremony, particularly Bishop Prowse, Senator Jacinta Collins, director of Catholic education Peter Ryan and parish priest Fr Peter Slater. Bishop Prowse said that he was pleased to see the progress made at the school and the wide open spaces which the children were able to use. The school was an indication that the Catholic Church was in “for the long term”, developing facilities with room for expansion. He said that the Church is Australia was a missionary church and much of that took place within school communities. He said that at the first gathering of Catholic bishops in Australia it had been decided that the biggest contribution the Church could make in Australia was to establish a strong Catholic education system. The schools system had brought Christ to the whole country and one of the greatest educationalists was Blessed Mary MacKillop. The bishop said students should remember that they were the first at St Brigid’s which opened in the year Mary MacKillop was made a saint. “Mary MacKillop found where the greatest need was, then looked at education and never looked back.” He said education must always be a missionary activity otherwise a school would be going against the original ideals of the Church in Australia. While St Brigid’s would essen-

tially be a Catholic school, it would always welcome others too. It was also in partnerships with the State and Federal governments to ensure the best possible outcomes for students. He thanked tha Federal government for its substantial contribution to the school and urged the children to always remember when Officer was swallowed up by Melbourne expansion that they were the first at St Brigid’s. Senator Collins, representing Federal Education Minister Julia Gillard, said the government was working hard to provide good education facilities across Australia. It had put record funding into schools and was working with State governments and Catholic education offices. The government had given $1.65 million for St Brigid’s and the remaining $1.9 million had come from the Church and school communitiy. She said schools were not just places of learning but were also important in bringing together communities. That was why a lot of the economic stimulus package had gone into building school halls. St Brigid’s represented best practice for open learning. Senator Collins said her Catholic education gave her a strong sense of social justice and that was why she eventually became a politician. Mr Ryan pointed out that althiough student numbers at Officer were only 50, the students were part of a wider system of 15,500 students in 33 primary school and seven secondary colleges in Sale Diocese. He said the new buildings were not the most important thing the students were and it was them who made a school. Mr Ryan told the students they had the opportunity to make St Brigid’s special. “Everyone can learn, grow and believe. And when we do it right, we become more like the person God wants us to be.”

BISHOP Christopher Prowse uses a branch of a gum tree to sprinkle holy water around all rooms at the official opening of St Brigid’s Primary School, Officer, assisted by principal Ken Gale.

THE official party at the opening ceremony (from left) director of Catholic education Peter Ryan, principal Ken Gale, Senator Jacinta Collins, Bishop Prowse and parish priest Fr Peter Slater.

Dig deep to help us grow BISHOP’S FAMILY FOUNDATION

Each year the Bishop’s Family Foundation funds programs which assist families within Sale Diocese. To enable this good work to continue the foundation relies on your tax deductible charitable donations. Please give generously.

Send donations to Bishop’s Family Foundation, PO Box 508, Sale 3853

Page 2 - Catholic Life, June 2010

To God’s people in the Catholic Diocese of Sale Dear friends, Please find enclosed in this issue of Catholic Life my pastoral letter: FINDING HOME IN JESUS. As indicated in last month’s Catholic Life, I hope to initiate through this pastoral letter some prayerful thought and discussions regarding the future pastoral directions in the Diocese of Sale. I hope to continue and mature the missionary emphasis offered by Journeying Together over past years. In articulating my initial reflections in this Pastoral Letter, I wish to set a helpful theological frame around which such future discussions can take place. The Pastoral Letter is composed of six sections. It begins by summarising our Catholic vision of mission. It is based on the Holy Trinity. We are a “sent out” People of God by meditating on the essential “engine room” of all Christian evangelisation: the Holy Trinity. Secondly, I attempt to summarise some of the graces received from the Journeying Together initiative. I note, by quoting Pope John Paul II, that it is not a matter of inventing some new program. The program already exists in the Gospel and our living Tradition: the centrality of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Yet, we need to set fresh goals and methods to invite the people of our region to know and love

Pastoral Letter ‘Finding Home in Jesus’ - An invitation Christ more fully. Thirdly, I offer a brief meditation on our past Catholic history here in the Diocese of Sale. The word “mission” and “missionaries” are not new. We are heirs of the missionary works of heroic Catholics who have gone before us in the greater Gippsland region. Now the baton of evangelisation is in our hands. We can observe fresh zeal for evangelisation in, for example, new migrant groups and new ecclesial movements in our midst. Then a brief reflection on the Pentecost scene in the Gospels leads us to pray that a continual Pentecost of conversion not only be our prayer but also our fervent desire. Otherwise, new pastoral directions lack the “soul” of the Holy Spirit to animate all our activities as Catholics. This demands of us repentance and praying for deeper faith. Fifthly, summarising some of the basic characteristics of evangelisation as articulated in recent Catholic Magisterial teachings, I offer several observations. The duty of all baptised is to evangelise not simply the active Catholic community but also those who are no longer Christians, and those who have never been Christians. This involves too the social and

cultural levels of our shared humanity. Finally, I offer a future focus. The expression from the psalms: “In you, O Lord, all make their home” (Psalm 87) is a helpful start. Everyone is looking for “home”. Looking for a “home in Jesus” is surely a basic human desire. How can we open ourselves to allow the Lord Jesus, the first evangeliser, to use us to lead people “home” to Him? I am asking all in the Diocese of Sale to discuss prayerfully the contents of this Pastoral Letter. This could be done in parishes, schools, and our various communities. I have included at the end of the text questions that could be used to assist discussions. As the Pastoral Letter is divided into six sections it could be used over several weeks, for example, before Parish Council meetings, Advent or Lenten discussion groups, and so on. I would appreciate not simply discussion but also prayers and silent meditation as we invoke the Holy Spirit to guide us in the years ahead. This could be the special intention of prayer, for example, in the Prayers of the Faithful during Mass, during Prayer Meetings, silent adoration before the Blessed

Sacrament, and so on. In the first half of next year (2011), perhaps around Easter time, we could arrange some regional gatherings and ponder on our collective reflections as we discuss ways forward. I would be open to the possibility of a diocesan assembly on the matter in the future. Let us pray together that the Lord Jesus will bless our humble efforts as we open ourselves more fully to the Kingdom of God in our midst and in our time and place. May the Blessed Mary, Our Mother, and all the Saints, especially Mary of the Cross MacKillop, lead us to Jesus, from whom all blessings flow. - Bishop Christopher Prowse Bishop of Sale

Sion Sister served the Church in Jerusalem A SISTER of Our Lady of Sion who recently celebrated her golden jubilee has died. Sr Rosalie Hanley completed her novitiate at the Sion Convent in Sale and spent the first years of her religious life as a teacher. As Sr Aileen, as she was then

known, she was principal of St Patrick’s, Stratford, in 1967 and also taught at Ascot Vale and North Box Hill. In 1971 she answered the call to assist with the Our Lady of Sion institutes in Jerusalem and joined the French-speaking com-

Catholic Life PO Box 183, Sale Vic 3853 Phone: (03) 5144 6132 Fax: (03) 5144 3855 catholiclife@sale.catholic.org.au www.sale.catholic.org.au Published by Catholic Media Gippsland, Diocese of Sale, 8 Pearson St., Sale Printed by Latrobe Valley Express, Morwell. Editor: Colin Coomber Member of Australasian Catholic Press Association & Australasian Religious Press Association Published monthly except January. Deadline for advertising copy and contributions for the next issue is Monday, July 5. Issues distributed free through primary schools and parishes from July 14.

munity of Ein Karem. During her five years there she learnt French and Hebrew and at age 34 was appointed co-ordinator of the international community at Ein Karem. When she returned to Australia she completed an Arts

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Catholic Life, June 2010 - Page 3

Family Foundation opens applications for funding THE Bishop’s Family Foundation has up to $100,000 to distribute to charities operating within the area covered by the Diocese of Sale. The foundation is calling for submissions from organisations who want to share in funding from this year’s annual disbursement. Applications close at the end of August and successful applicants will be advised towards the end of the year.

The foundation has given away more than $600,000 since its inception 10 years ago, all of the money raised from proceeds of investing money donated to it. Like most philanthropic trusts, the foundation only distributes money it earns from its investments, leaving its capital base to earn money year after year. Money raised from its annual May appeal helps to offset the effects of inflation and grow the funding base so more funds can

be distributed. All projects which assist the family are eligible for funding providing the project is to be run by an organisation with charitable tax deductibility status. No money is available to individuals. Applications for funding should be accompanied by the relevant form which will shortly be available on the diocese website www.sale.catholic.org.au/ agencies/BFF.

Website upgrade underway THE Diocese of Sale website is undergoing a major upgrade, the first since it was launched about eight years ago. As part of the redevelopment, the site will be moving to a new host Media Arts which also hosts more than 80 websites for Victorian Catholic schools. The fresh look and easily navigable pages will undergo further development over the coming months. Our website which has more than 100 pages of information, continues to have more than 2000 individual visitors monthly which is regarded as high traffic

WAITING for their next event at the combined sports day between Lavalla College’s Presentation campus and St Mary’s Newborough are friends (from the top) Brittany Roeder, Olivia Vincent, Samantha Aquilina, Emily Jeffrey, Chynche Laurins, Milly Sapkin, Ashlee Asmussen and Carly Stafford.

Bishop Coffey on mend after surgery in Ireland BISHOP Jeremiah Coffey is recovering in Ireland following major abdominal surgery. The operation and recuperation time has delayed his return to Australia from holidays. The bishop first became ill while visiting family in Canada and was then hospitalised shortly after arriving in his native Cork. He has been buoyed by calls from diocesan priests and close

friends who have been concerned over his condition. His recovery is progressing and he hopes to return to Australia as soon as he is well enough to travel. Bishop Coffey lives in retirement in Paynesville. Bishop Christopher Prowse has asked everyone to continue prayers for Bishop Coffey’s speedy recovery and a safe return to Australia.

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compared with most websites. While most people visit only once in the month, there is a high enough return rate to list the average to 1.5 visits per user a month. They visit an average 4.5 pages each visit with most visits being between 9am and 11am weekdays, followed by another peak mid afternoon weekdays. Most popular pages are CDF on-line banking, parish Mass times, parish contact details, Living Liturgy newsletter, Catholic Life and diocesan personnel details. While most visitors surf in, get

the information they want and move on or log off, more than 10 percent of visitors stay for more than five minutes which is regarded in industry circles as a high “captive” rate. Another interesting fact is that over 56 percent of our visitors either have the page bookmarked or typed in the address directly, showing that they wanted to access our site. A further 6 percent came in from links on other sites, while 37 percent accessed our site. The new look webpage will go live any day now. Just visit www.sale.catholic.org.au.

Page 4 - Catholic Life, June 2010

How is your parish going?

If the shoe fits

HERE’S one to think about. The great Indian spiritual leader Mahatma Ghandi was boarding a train when one of his sandals fell off and dropped between the platform and the train. He removed his other sandal and dropped it down the crack as well. Seeing the puzzlement of those around him, he explained that a poor person who found a single shoe was no better off. What’s really helpful is finding a pair of shoes.

Going batty

GREY-headed flying foxes are meant to be endangered in Victoria but there has been no shortage of them in Gippsland in recent months. Bairnsdale and Orbost areas have been particularly hard hit with householders reporting nightly raids on their fruit trees. These large fruit bats are also been seen in Warragul, Morwell Yarram and Sale, and no doubt, lots of other places. This writer had them making nightly visits to a spotted gum tree at the front of the house, making noise from dusk to dawn as they feed of the flowers. It has also been mating season which added to the noise. Fortunately the colder weather and the end of flowering has forced the bats to move on.

True entepreneur

OUTSIDE England’s Bristol Zoo there is a parking lot for 150 cars and 8 buses. For 25 years, its parking fees were managed by a very pleasant attendant. The fees were 1 pound for cars ($1.40), 5 pounds for buses (about $7). Then, one day, after

25 solid years of never missing a day of work, he just didn’t show up; so the zoo management called the city council and asked it to send them another parking attendant. The council did some research and replied that the parking lot was the zoo’s own responsibility. The zoo advised council that the attendant was a city employee. The city council responded that the attendant had never been on the city payroll. Meanwhile, sitting in his villa somewhere on the coast of Spain or France or Italy is a man who’d apparently had a ticket machine installed completely on his own and then had simply begun to show up every day, commencing to collect and keep the parking fees, estimated at about $560 per day — for 25 years. Assuming 7 days a week, this amounts to just over $7 million dollars. And no one even knows his name.

Wait a bit...

VISITING priest about to invite the sign of peace was quick to pounce on a couple who were exchanging a kiss. “They are keen up at the front. They’ve started smooching already,” he announced. Two weeks later when he saw them again, they made sure they did not jump the gun again.

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IN 2006 Pope Benedict XVI presided over what must have been a very rare event for such an ancient city - he consecrated the new Mary, Star of Evangelisation Parish church for the city of Rome. “God has a face. God has a name. The church is the place we meet the Son of the living God”, the Pope said. “The church exists so we can meet Christ there and thus it is also the place we meet one another.” The Pope added that the parish is a beacon that radiates the light of faith in our largely secularised world. That makes the parish centre a very important place in any community, in any city or town! We meet Christ in the gathered faith community, in the celebration of the sacraments, in listening to the Word of God and in our service and outreach to others. A key responsibility of any parish is to help us to meet Christ, to help us to develop a personal relationship with him. The Gospel, the Good News we listen to regularly is not about something. It is about someone. That Someone lies at the very heart of our identity. It is our understanding of our encounter with Jesus which ultimately shapes what we might call our Christian vision or way of looking at our world. There is no encounter more personal, more powerful, more intimate, more challenging, more life-giving than our encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist. It is Christ’s way of fulfilling His promise, I am with you until the end of time. The Eucharist is called the Real Presence, the late Pope John Paul II wrote, not as a way of excluding all other types of presence as if they were not real, but because it is a presence in the fullest sense; a substantial presence whereby Christ is wholly

Reflections by Jim Quillinan

and entirely present. In some extraordinary way, it is almost as if time has stood still. We do meet Jesus – the Christ who has died, who has risen and is therefore, now here again. Our Christian faith calls us to make ourselves disciples of Jesus, to think like Him, to judge like Him and to live as He lived. To do that, a personal encounter is very, very important. That’s a most important role for any parish. Not just a one-off encounter, we need to meet Jesus often, to hear again His words, to be in Jesus’ presence. When we gather together in celebration with those of like faith, Christ is present with us. In the words of St Ambrose, the Eucharist makes the resurrection so real in our lives that “Today Christ is yours, yet each day He rises again in you.” The Church is a community gathered in faith to proclaim, celebrate and promote God’s vision for the world, the reign of God as announced by Jesus. That’s why the Pope referred to the parish as a beacon radiating the light of faith in our largely secularized world. When Jesus was here on earth, he promoted a new vision for the world. Jesus was a source of forgiveness and reconciliation among people, he empowered others, sustained them, healed them and served them. The church through us is called to do the same. After the Synod in Rome for the Church of Oceania, the Pope wrote to us in a document called

Bishop to teach at CCR leader’s day BISHOP Christopher Prowse will lead a Catholic Charismatic Renewal leader’s day at Warragul on June 26. He will conduct two teaching sessions during the day which has the theme “The Word of God and the Words of God.” It will be held at the Sion Teacher’s Centre, Connor St., Warragul (part of the Catholic

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Ecclesia in Oceania. This is what he said about the parish: A Christian community is never meant to be a comfortable place for its members. The Synod Fathers wanted to encourage the local communities to look beyond their own immediate concerns and reach out to others. The parish as a community cannot isolate itself from the realities of the world around it. The Christian community must be attentive to issues of social justice and spiritual hunger in society. 1 This is what Pope Benedict means when he says that the church exists so we can meet Christ there and thus it is also the place we meet one another for it is only my readiness to encounter my neighbour and to show them love that makes me sensitive to God as well. So who do we welcome into our parish and to whom do we reach out? It is easy to be among friends, those of like minds and beliefs. But do we reach out to those who no longer consider themselves to be Catholics? How does our parish interact with other Churches? How do we reach out to the fastest growing ‘religious’ group in Australia – the non believers? In what way are we involved in our local communities, in what ways are we involved in working for justice and peace. In what ways are we communities of healing and reconciliation? One other important point - if anything is to be accomplished in our parishes, we need to be positive and optimistic. Pope Paul wrote: “Without departing from a realistic viewpoint, let Christian communities become centers of optimism where all the members resolutely endeavor to perceive the positive aspect of people and events. Love does not rejoice in what is wrong but rejoices with the truth. There is no limit to love’s forbearance, to its trust, its hope, its power to endure. Let the agitated members of various groups therefore reject the excesses of systematic and destructive criticism! The attainment of such an outlook is not just a matter of psychology. It is also a fruit of the Holy Spirit.” 2 So how is your parish going? 1

Ecclesia in Oceania Pope Paul VI, Apostolic Exhortation on Christian Joy, May 1975 2

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SFX evening celebrates â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Journey So Farâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; By Maree Chapman BEACONSFIELD - At St Francis Xavier College, Beaconsfield Campus a special event called â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Journey So Far â&#x20AC;&#x153; was held recently for current Year 11 students. Now in its fourth year, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Journey So Farâ&#x20AC;? was an evening of information as well as inspiration, where Year 11 students had the opportunity to hear the â&#x20AC;&#x153;journeysâ&#x20AC;? of past students of the college in a wide range of career paths.

College senior mathematics teacher Bernadette Barlow led a team to organise the evening and reflected â&#x20AC;&#x153;As one speaker explained, it is a way of passing on the wisdom of an older generation to a younger one, and in his family, the way to do this was through a story.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The students who returned to the college ranged in age from their mid thirties to early 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and related their success to date in reaching their personal career goals while others described their progress in studying towards their long term

goals. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;journeysâ&#x20AC;? of these 37 past collegians were the highlight of the evening. Year 11 students heard about challenges, disappointments, changes in direction and successes as our past students shared their stories. A common thread among the speakers was the importance of hard work, resilience, wisdom and guidance from mentors in achieving career goals.

One such speaker on the evening was past student Anthony Bourke. Anthony completed Year 12 in 1987 and had the honor of being appointed St Francis Xavierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first college captain with Sally Cunningham. After completing a Bachelor of Engineering and Diploma of Applied Science, he now works in the field of engineering and project management and is currently general manager, risk

and technical services at National Foods. Anthony passed on to the students some valuable advice in taking one day at a time and concentrating on doing the best you can with whatever task it is you are currently engaged in. The enthusiasm and commitment of the past students who returned on the evening was evident and reflected their ongoing support of the College Community.

Bishops question Coalition on its immigration policy THE Australian Catholic Bishops are questioning the Coalitionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposed policy changes on immigration and say that a return to the Pacific solution would show a lack of appreciation of the ethical issues related to migration. The Coalition announced changes which could require asylum seekers to be processed overseas if the Coalition was to win government. A touted return to the temporary protection visa policy would be included in these changes. As it was under the Howard government, the TPV holders would be able to work and have access to Medicare. They would be required to attend English language classes after a year and would have access to limited income support. However, they would not have family reunion rights and the period of temporary protection could be extended in discriminatorily â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;if requiredâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The negative mental health effects of TPVs have been widely recorded and have led in the past to an actual increase in boat arrivals, especially women and children, because of the lack of access to family reunion. In addition to this policy, under a Coalition government, TPV holders would have to work for welfare, although this would not necessarily increase their employability if they gain permanency.

Bishop Joe Grech, Australian Catholic Bishopsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Conference spokesperson for refugee and asylum seeker issues is concerned about these changes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The requirement of asylum seekers to work for their benefits would need to be carefully considered and its motives made very transparent. Vulnerable and traumatised human beings cannot simply be used as deterrents to others seeking asylum in this country. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has always been the view of the Catholic Church that human beings such as asylum seekers should be treated as human beings, not as political footballs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This policy sounds as though it could be quite punitive toward asylum seekers who have left their countries of origin because of dire and dangerous situations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is important to focus on the problem of people smuggling while not holding asylum seekers responsible for this phenomenon,â&#x20AC;? he said. Director of the Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office Fr Maurizio Pettena said that many also did not realise the wealth that we enjoyed in Australia as a result of migration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has been demonstrated time and time again that refugees and asylum seekers work extremely hard in the Australian community, contributing much to the fabric of this country.â&#x20AC;?

FORMER student Natalie Dorotic, now working as an advertising executive with the Geelong Advertiser with college house coordinator Romi Bennett.

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Page 6 - Catholic Life, June 2010

Our priests: Foundation of Catholic education AS our “Year for Priests” draws towards its close, it is timely to reflect on the extraordinary contribution these men have made, especially – but not only – to Catholic Education. Catholic schools in turn, have clearly made and continue to make an enormous contribution to our Australian society. We need all to be grateful to our priests. We need to express our gratitude not only to those serving us now, but to the generations who have gone before and also to the many fine and good men who served in the priesthood for some years, but whose changing life circumstances led them to believe they were called in other directions. Catholic education in Australia, as with so many other things, got off to something of a rocky start. There was certainly no grand strategic plan! In most cases, in the early decades of the 19th Century, it was the parish priest who saw the need for a Catholic school in his parish and so set about finding an appropriate teacher who was usually a lay person and usually without training. It was the vision, commitment and energy of those priests that laid the foundations for the mighty work we have today. It was they who, in the first instance, built schools having strong their roots in parish, gave us the gift we have today and very often that building was with their own hands. Of course time and history march inevitably on. The debate and controversy surrounding the “free, compulsory, secular” moves of the 1860s and 1870s saw priests once again rising to

the defence of their schools. Led, of course, by their bishops, they continued to play a powerful role in seeking religious, mostly from Ireland, but also from France and other European countries. They also played a role in the development of our own Australian Orders such as Mary MacKillop’s Sisters of St Joseph and the Good Samaritan Sisters. Throughout these tumultuous times, the school continued to be seen as a work of the parish, so the priest was always central to its life and its work. Then, through the busy years of the so called State Aid debate, priests were prominent in the public eye, but just as importantly, priests stayed faithful to their own schools, being always supportive and ever present. Of course, our Church is both divine and human and there have been times when things did not perhaps go as well as might have been desired. Overall, though, it is very evident that the strong relationship between priest and Catholic school has been a major contributor to the life of every Catholic school. In today’s Church, our priests continue to play a central and critical role. Our schools, certainly in Sale, are, for the most part, parish or regional schools. Clearly, they do the work of the parish and the role of the priest remains preeminent. In our diocese, we are blessed with the priests we have. They may be small in number, but they remain powerful in presence and in influence. I can assure you that I have never worked anywhere where the relationship that exists between parish priest and

with Talking Peter Catholic Ryan Education school is stronger or healthier than it is here in Sale. That is to the credit of the priests, their bishops over the years and school personnel. We are, though, forever changing. There are stories of priests in the early days of the colony whose parish reached from Yass to Port Phillip, and that on horseback! We have not returned to that and, please God, we never will. We look around today, though, at some of our presbyteries that were built for a parish priest and two or even three or more curates. There are empty bedrooms in them now. It seems unlikely that we will fill them again soon, though our hope and our prayer is that vocations will flow once again. That situation places ever

greater demands on priests. It would be unfortunate if priests and the people they serve held the same expectations of them now as were held 40 or 50 years ago. We need to be examining the role of the priest in schools to ensure their health and wellbeing, while enhancing their sacramental and pastoral presence. There is always change afoot and we have to adapt to it. There are other external changes afoot, too, that will impact on the role of the priest in the school. Increasing Government accountability and intervention along with growing legislative complexity are two of the greatest, already bringing change. We need to identify what is, for us, too important to let go and to

find ways of holding and enhancing that, even as structures change. I suggest that some of the elements we need to hold are: the role of priests in the appointment of school staff, especially of senior staff; the regular, welcome and visible presence of the priest in the school, for Eucharist, certainly, but for his powerful pastoral presence; the oversight of the religious life of the, in RE curriculum in prayer life and in the very religious ethos of the school. These are some of the elements that we must hold regardless of change in structures. I would envisage that the administrative side of the priest’s role in schools may diminish. That is an area we will need to explore carefully and to explore together. All of this will come under increasing pressure from inside and from outside parish life. We need to treasure the role of the priest even if structures change. The contribution priests have made to Catholic Education, the contribution they continue to make, is enormous. We thank God for them and keep them always in our prayers.

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THE section for Sisters of Our Lady of Sion at Sale Cemetery is easily recognised because of the tall yew trees surrounding the graves. SALE - The graves of more than 40 Sisters of Our Lady of Sion Congregation are located at the Sale Cemetery. The section is easily recognisable from the boundaries of the old part of the cemetery, as it has a group of unique Irish yew trees in its midst. The original cemetery plot was purchased following the death of Sr Sabina who sadly died in the first year of her Australian adventure. She was one of the group of seven young women to join the SS Ormuz in January 1890 for their voyage to Melbourne, and then by train to Sale. They were the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion, who were charged with the responsibility of establishing a Catholic secondary school for Gippsland. Their ages ranged from 24 to 31 years, and all are interred in Gippsland cemeteries; six at Sale and one at Warragul. There are several theories about why the “yew” trees were chosen. Yew trees were often planted in European cemeteries and church yards in past centuries – some say they helped ward off evil spirits, others that

their evergreen properties were a symbol of everlasting life. Others in the local community have heard that the seeds were brought from Jerusalem, or perhaps from Sr Sabina’s home country of France. Whatever the original reason, any visitor to the Sale Cemetery could quickly find the burial site and take a moment to ponder the hundreds of years of service given to educate the young people of Gippsland and beyond. Most of these dedicated women have been laid to rest far from their original families. On arrival in Sale, the young group had immediate applications from young women eager to join their ranks. One fact many local residents may not be aware of, is that all of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion who joined in Australia completed their training in Sale. Whilst at various times there were Sion schools at Bairnsdale, Warragul, Ascot Vale and Box Hill, as well as Sion school principals at Stratford and Sale, the novitiate was always completed in the Sale Convent in York St. The term “Sister” along with a “religious” name was given when

a novice took her initial vows and the young woman entered the congregation. Once she had taken her final vows, six years after first vows, she was called “Mother.” Each sister also had M for Mary (written Marie in French) before the name she was given at her profession. If you search through the names of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion at the cemetery, or in the written records, you will notice that a particular religious name may appear more than once. A change came in 1964-65. Sisters had the choice of maintaining their “religious” names or returning to their given and family names. To honor the work of the sisters, and to recognise the significance of their work, two special Masses will be held during the 120 year celebrations in November. On Saturday November 13, Mass will be celebrated at midday at the cemetery, and on Sunday November 14, Bishop Christopher Prowse will celebrate Mass at 11am in St Mary’s Cathedral.

Catholic Life, June 2010 - Page 7

ImmaculĂŠe Who is this extraordinary woman who writes and speaks about unconditional love and forgiveness?

She will reveal her amazing story and her true gift of forgiveness

Her Emotional Battle

Her Physical Battle

% She was caught in the â&#x20AC;&#x2122;94 Rwandan War % She was consumed by fear % She was consumed by anger % Most of her family was murdered % She was consumed by resentment % She hid in a cramped bathroom with % She was consumed by rage seven other women for 91 days % Her weight went from 52kg to 29kg

Her Survival

Her Spiritual Awakening

% % % %

She prayed continuously all day, every day The Rosary consoled her The Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Prayer tested her Prayer gave her strength to finally forgive her tormentors

% % % % %

She She She She She

worked with the United Nations is now married with two children has written four books appears in the media worldwide travels the world to give her testimony

For more information on ImmaculĂŠe, see: www.immaculĂŠe.com. For general enquiries - please contact: Divine Mercy Publications (03) 9830 4386

Victoria (Cranbourne): Friday, 2nd July 2010 at 7:30pm, St Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Hall, Cranbourne-Frankston Road, Cranbourne - Entry via Navarre Drive (Introduced by Bishop Christopher Prowse) Early bus seat reservations from Central Gippsland through to Latrobe Valley are essential by contacting Marianne Bagguley: (03) 5147 1019 or 0407 353 750

Victoria (Burwood, Melbourne): Saturday, 3rd July 2010 at 2:00pm,The Besen Centre, 87-89 Station Street, Burwood, Mel Ref:(61C7). (Ph: Divine Mercy Publications: 03 9830 4386 (W) or Tony 03 9842 5637(H))

Please note parking for this venue is $3.00 (correct money required) *

Seating is limited at all venues so be early

ImmaculĂŠe will also be speaking in Perth: Tuesday 29th June (ph: Jane 08 9293 3968) and in Sydney: Sunday, 4th & Monday 5th July (Ph: Therese (02) 9651 3028, 0431 170 342 or Charbel 0404 292 855) There is no admission fee but there will be a collection to cover expenses. All donations will be welcome to help with The ImmaculĂŠe Foundation which helps orphans in Rwanda

ImmaculĂŠe Ilibagizaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story

ImmaculĂŠe will be visiting Australia from 29th June to 5th July 2010.

ImmaculĂŠe has a dramatic and moving story to tell relating to her survival of the Rwandan holocaust. Her mother, father and two brothers were killed in the Rwandan genocide, along with so many of her extended family and friends. Her challenge during and after the ordeal was to be able to forgive. Hundreds of times each day, whilst hiding from the killers and as she prayed the words in the Our Father, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us,â&#x20AC;? the challenge to forgive became stronger and stronger. And, with the Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s help, she was able to forgive the perpetrators. This is one of the most amazing and heroic stories of faith and forgiveness you will ever hear. She has appeared in numerous media throughout the USA and the world, including USA 60 minutes, CNN, the New York Times and Mother Angelicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s EWTN Catholic network (USA) She is one of the foremost speakers on peace and reconciliation in our world today and has received many distinguished awards worldwide for her efforts in spreading the message of peace and forgiveness.

She is the author of three best-selling books worldwide. Our Lady of Kibeho Led by Faith Left to Tell

ImmaculĂŠe credits her salvage mostly to prayer and to a set of rosary beads given to her by her devout Catholic father prior to going into hiding. Anger and resentment about her situation were literally eating her alive and destroying her faith, but rather than succumbing to the rage that she felt, ImmaculĂŠe instead turned to prayer. She began to pray the rosary as a way of drowning out the negativity that was building up inside her. ImmaculĂŠe found solace and peace in prayer and began to pray from the time she opened her eyes in the morning to the time she closed her eyes at night. Through prayer, she eventually found it possible and, in fact, imperative to forgive her tormentors and her familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s murderers. ImmaculĂŠeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strength in her faith empowered her to stare down a man armed with a machete threatening to kill her during her escape. She also later came face to face with the killer of her mother and her brother and said the unthinkable, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I forgive you.â&#x20AC;? ImmaculĂŠe knew, whilst in hiding, that she would have to overcome immeasurable odds without her family and with her country destroyed. Fortunately, ImmaculĂŠe utilised her time in that tiny bathroom to teach herself English with only the Bible and a dictionary. Once freed, she was able to secure a job with the United Nations. ,PPDFXOpHÂśV ÂżUVW ERRN Left to Tell; Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust was released in 2006. Left to Tell quickly became a New York 7LPHV %HVW 6HOOHU 7R GDWH LW KDV EHHQ WUDQVODWHG LQWR ÂżIWHHQ ODQJXDJHV ZRUOGZLGH Â´ 6KH KDV VKDUHG KHU XQLYHUVDO PHVVDJH ZLWK ZRUOG GLJQLWDULHV school children, multinational corporations, churches, and at many conferences. ImmaculĂŠe works hard to spread her message and to raise money for her Left to Tell Charitable Fund ZKLFK GLUHFWO\ EHQHÂżWV WKH FKLOGUHQ RUSKDQHG E\ WKH JHQRFLGH

This is one of the most amazing and heroic stories of faith and forgiveness you will ever hear

Page 8 - Catholic Life, June 2010

70 years a Sister of Sion

The short life of Maggie MacKillop By Sr Mary Fermio rsj “ON the evening of 25th inst (May 1843) at Duntroon on the Darebin Creek, Mrs A. MacKillop of a daughter.” Thus was the birth of Margarite MacKillop

Maggie MacKillop

announced to the world in the Port Phillip Gazette. Mary MacKillop, now 16 months, had a sister. The year 1843 saw the first High Mass on St Patrick’s Day and it was during this year that the father Alexander MacKillop lost his position with Campbell and Sons because of his attack on Rev. Dunmore Lang in an election campaign. In October, Alexander was a member of a committee formed to protect farmers facing ruin because of low prices for their produce. It seems nothing has changed. Maggie grew to be a gracious young lady who I’m sure would have attracted the attention from the local eligible males. Of a strong character, she was never afraid to confront issues such as recorded by Fr Julian Tenison Woods in a letter to Mary (March 4, 1867) that “Maggie privately opened her batteries about Lexie (her sister) and said they were all determined to have her away from Mt Gambier.” That “Lexie must come to Duck Ponds and at once.” The family were fearful Lexie would become a Sister of St Joseph with Mary. A love of fashion, women’s news, news about weddings, funerals etc. were all included in

Maggie’s many letters. She and Fr Woods challenged each other over chess, at which she became very proficient. Friends were important to her, but the fear of her father’s tongue made having them at home difficult. Maggie helped Mary teach in the boarding school at Portland and she seemed to love having the family together, though she voiced concern in a letter that she hoped all would go smoothly and they could keep down the little debts. The attitude of her father seemed to make her fearful this would not be so. An affectionate sister, it was to her that Margaret Kane wrote to tell of her brother John’s untimely death from tetanus in New Zealand. Margaret had followed him from Penola. Always delicate with a chronic cough and made more so by rheumatic fever at Penola, Maggie lived her later years with various relatives, some making her welcome, others hurting her with their pettiness, “borrowing” her stamps and envelopes. Uncle Peter, who lived at Lara, took her in and in August 1872 her health deteriorated and Fr Trappeiner SJ realised she would never recover her health. Fr Woods hastened to her in September when she was dying.

Mary MacKillop & Family

Part 4 He wrote to Mary “her dispositions are most beautiful.” He was consoled by her patience, resignation and detachment. Maggie died on December 13, 1872. Mary wrote to her mother who had now lost her husband and three children, “How good of our loving heavenly Father to grant such holy deaths to those we so dearly love.” (December 17, 1872). Maggie is buried with her MacKillop grandparents, her brother Peter and four other relatives in Melbourne General Cemetery. Sources: The MacKillop Family, Philomena McGuigan rsj. Archive resource material, Book 21.

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A JUBILEE Mass was held in the chapel at Sion convent in Box Hill to celebrate 70 years as an Our Lady of Sion Sister for Sr Theresa Condon. She is the first Australian to reach this remarkable milestone. Sr Theresa was born and raised in Jindivick in the West Gippsland foothills, the daughter of local farmers Kit and Dick Condon. She attended Jindivick State School then boarded at Our Lady of Sion Convent in Warragul for two years. She then went to the Sale convent after which she entered the Sion order in 1938, and was professed in 1940. A short time was spent teaching at St Joseph’s Primary, Warragul, and Ascot Vale, and she also spent nine years in Jerusalem.

Bishop’s two talks focus on Mary BISHOP Christopher Prowse gave two powerful and inspiring addresses on Mary in the scriptures at the 14th annual Marian conference held at St Michael’s Church, Traralgon on May 22. The day began with Rosary, followed by eucharistic adoration and reconciliation. The first session by Bishop Prowse was on the wedding feast at Cana. He said Mary speaks to us as well as the stewards when she says “Do whatever He tells you.” After this first talk came the procession of Our Lady’s statue and its crowning by the bishop. Mass was then concelebrated by the bishop, parish priest Fr Peter Bickley and retired priests Mgr John Allman and Fr Tom O’Connell. After lunch the bishop spoke on Mary at the foot of the cross. He said she was the first and most faithful disciple, close to her dying son to the last, suffering with Him in His agony, and given through John the beloved disciple to be our mother and most powerful mediatrix. The conference closed with recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Benediction.

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Catholic Life, June 2010 - Page 9

‘Fat finger’ trading coming to Australia soon YOU may have heard, even if not a share investor, of the huge recent swing of the Dow Jones Industrial Average on the New York Stock Exchange. While the exact cause is as yet not confirmed, there’s speculation that it’s a result of “fat fingers syndrome” – pressing the wrong button on a computer keyboard. In this instance it would have been using a “b” instead of an “m” and selling a billion shares in Proctor and Gamble instead of only a million. In the USA and Europe, large brokers use computer programs to generate market orders which are placed into the market without review. These programs can generate thousands of orders almost instantly and are designed to allow the brokers to trade on any small movements in the market. Of course, without intervention, these programs can cause an enormous exaggeration of reality. While the NYSE has checks in place to stop overreaction, or to stop the market if it falls too far

too quickly, part of the problem lay in that there is more than one share market in the USA. As soon as the matter was queried in New York, the computer programs just redirected orders to other exchanges and the sell off continued. When the markets had fallen sufficiently for the computer programs to reverse the process, they generated “buy” orders at the same speed and the market recovered most of its losses. The NYSE dropped 998.5 points in 15 minutes and recovered 750 points in 20 minutes. That’s America – what about Australia? At present orders in Australia can only be placed by a real person – or at least checked by a market operator. This means there is an opportunity for errors to be corrected before they happen. However, our Federal Government has indicated that they will allow Chi-X (an international exchange firm) to set up here in competition with the ASX. The ASX has also indicated

DOLLAR$ & SENSE with David Wells

that it will be introducing a new trading platform to allow the same style of trading as they have in USA and Europe. Chi-X already offers that trading overseas. So “Fat Fingers Syndrome” is coming here, too. This will have a number of negative effects for retail (personal) investors, but sometimes I feel that retail investors are not a concern to the stock exchanges. There is a long held view that we should buy and hold shares for a long time. Personally I think this is far too simplistic and that to expect a share to remain the same quality relative to the market over a long time is wishful thinking. At present only about 20 percent of our trade volumes on the

market is short term trading, and 40 percent are principal trades by brokers on their own behalf. This was also the case in the USA and Europe, too. With the new trading platforms these will rise dramatically. Europe and USA markets are now about 60 percent short term trading and principal trades are the majority of all trades. This has caused the huge increases in volatility that we see nearly every day. The Dow Jones Industrial Average now regularly moves more than 1 percent in a day and sometimes much more, in either direction. Years ago these moves would be the exception, now they’re becoming the norm. This volatility will be coming

here with the new developments. We’ll really have to change our ways to cope with it. Most retail investors will have to make use of some short term trading strategies in the better shares to cope. The “buy and hold strategy” over an entire portfolio will see opportunities missed and the level of volatility increase our risks. Some more conservative investors will find this quite disturbing. In future articles closer to the time when the platforms are introduced I’ll outline some strategies for you to consider. Interested investors may like to contact us before then. • This report is intended to provide general advice. In preparing this advice, David Wells and RBS Morgans did not take into account the investment objective, the financial situation and particular needs of any particular person. Before making an investment decision on the basis of this advice, you need to consider, with or without the assistance of an adviser, whether the advice is appropriate in light of your particular investment needs, objectives and financial circumstances.

Evangelist’s amazing story WHEN it comes to getting souls on the board Catholic evangelist John Rick Miller has had great success with his missions known as For the Love of God Worldwide. He is acknowledged for almost single-handedly changing the political climate of Columbia by having the president and the armed forces consecrate themselves to the Immaculate and Sacred Hearts. Mr Miller will be speaking at Berwick on Saturday, June 19, during his visit to Australia. He will talk at St Michael’s Church, High St., Berwick, at 1.30pm, followed by Mass celebrated by Bishop Christopher Prowse. Mr Miller lives in London and is Master of the Guild of the Blessed Virgin Mary which prays for the conversion and protection of the City of London. For the Love of God Worldwide began in 2008 with the aim of restoring the Catholic faith in countries which are historically Catholic but have largely abandoned the faith. He went to Columbia where he met the president who promised to do do everything in his power to assist the mission. A week later he again met the president and together with priests, dignitaries and army generals, the Rosary was recited on national television. Since then the president goes on live TV every Wednesday to recite the Rosary. Eight weeks later the president went on TV with the Pro Nuncio to consecrate himself and his family to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Mr Miller had a visit from the head of the military who asked what had happened to the president because he had never seen such a transformation. Weeks later, throughout Columbia the military laid down their rifles and were issued with Rosary beads, after which they too consecrated themselves to the Immaculate Heart and Sacred Heart. Five months after the initial meeting with the president the

country was reconsecrated at a Mass attended by between 20,000 and 30,000 people. Immediately after the government began appointing Catholics to key positions, women were made High Court judges and a purge of the armed forces led to 42 senior officers being arrested for genocide and murder. The transformation in Columba has since spread to most other Latin American and South American countries and southern parts of the United States. Mr Miller is a powerful speaker who had achieved much in two years. His strong message calls Catholics to return to the faith, change their ways and to be a candle in the darkness for others to follow. More information about his

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Page 10 - Catholic Life, June 2010

Newborough backs Caritas

STUDENTS Jazmin Wyntjes, Kellie Wood and Caleb Michie with cup cake day organiser Irene Bramstedt (rear left) and Susan Grout representing Caritas. NEWBOROUGH - St Mary’s Grout, said “It was encouraging School community supported to see children and families Caritas Australia through a thinking of other people.” range of activities. She was particularly proud Each family and class at and grateful to accept a cheque school were presented with a of over $400 from the school Project Compassion box, in community. Religious education which they were encouraged to co-ordinator Trish Mulqueen contribute what they could to said “It is part of our Catholic help other people less fortunate. School tradition to support peoThe Grade 3/4 children also ple who are less fortunate than organised a cup cake day as a ourselves. The children felt very privileged to be helping other special fundraiser for Caritas. Caritas representative Susan people in need.”

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59 confirmed at Warragul WARRAGUL - St Joseph’s parish celebrated confirmation with 59 candidates involved. Bishop Christopher Prowse confirmed children at two parish Masses in Warragul and it was a wonderful and joyous event for all involved. Students processed in to the church to the music and singing of Dom and Leonie Ryan and really engaged with the ceremony in many ways. The ceremony was simple but very meaningful with a focus on the actual confirming of the candidates when they received the sacrament from the bishop. Religious education co-ordinator Janelle Deguara said “Seeing the bishop come and speak to students before the Mass began, students in awe at his presence and the look of joy and happiness on their faces after being confirmed. “Children were truly filled with spirit and understood the significance and meaning of this special event in their lives.” Bishop Prowse has been celebrating the Sacrament of Confirmation throughout the entire diocese this year and there has been very positive feedback from students, teachers, parents and parishioners from each event. Parishes are very pleased with the guidance and willingness of the bishop and the time he has given to make these events something students will remember for many years. Bishop Prowse spoke and acknowledge all involved in the St Joseph’s sacramental team and also made special mention of those most important, the students parents, grandparents

BISHOP Prowse with Bradley Curtain at the Warragul confirmations. and sponsors, in the life of the candidates. Students and parents took part in many gatherings prior to the confirmation day and also prepared for the sacrament in

their religion classes at school. Students now look forward to a special visit from the bishop at school to talk about their confirmation and what this means for them in the future.

Catholic Life, June 2010 - Page 11

Pastoral Letter: Pentecost 2010

Finding Home in Jesus Bishop Christopher Prowse Catholic Bishop of Sale “In you, O Lord, all make their home” (Psalm 87)

1. OUR CATHOLIC VISION Jesus Christ declared “I am the way, I am the truth and life” (John 14:6). In true conversion Jesus reveals to us the way in repentance to God, the Father of all mercies. This is the work of the Holy Spirit, “the Lord, the Giver of Life”(Profession of Faith). This on-going conversion with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is truly an experience of FINDING HOME. In encountering Christ, “the pearl of great value” (Matthew 13:46), we discover our deepest humanity. We encounter Christ in His Body – the Church – especially in our Catholic Sacraments. Our Blessed Mother, Mary, and all the saints – with Mary of the Cross MacKillop – inspire us to praise and serve the Lord. Our Pope, Bishops, priests and deacons guide and serve us all. Being drawn up in the Trinity, we experience being sent out into the world as missionaries. We JOURNEY TOGETHER as we witness to the Life, Death and Resurrection of the Risen Lord. We do all we can, by prayer and example, to assist our distracted world in FINDING HOME IN JESUS.

2. PASTORAL INITIATIVES The Catholic Diocese of Sale’s Pastoral Plan (2003-2007) was known as JOURNEYING TOGETHER. There was much discussion and consultation for some years before its publication throughout the diocese. So many were involved. Its enduring contribution has been to place the diocese in a growing missionary awareness. Some of the fruits of this initiative are as follows: the development of our Youth Ministry, greater regional co-operation, the strengthening and establishment of more Parish Pastoral Councils, special “projects” (e.g. youth, family), parish based sacramental programs. Others have commented on a greater sense of “welcome” deepening in our communities. Our schools, too, developed a Religious Education Curriculum called Journeying Together in Hope. Then some have spoken of a more expansive understanding of a “diocesan and universal perspective” to faith. Some just were delighted to be asked for their opinions on matters of our common Catholic belief. We are very grateful to the Holy Spirit for these substantial pastoral initiatives of JOURNEYING TOGETHER. As a diocese we need now to move and plan pastorally for the next period of time. Of course, the wisdom of Pope John Paul II on such matters is forever true. In Novo Millennio Ineunte (2001) i he wrote: “It is not therefore a matter of inventing a “new programme”. The programme already exists: it is the plan found in the Gospel and in the living Tradition, it is the same as ever. Ultimately, it has its centre in Christ himself, who is to be known, loved and imitated, so that in him we may live the life of the Trinity, and with him transform history until its fulfillment in the heavenly Jerusalem.”(n.29) At the same time, in his Apostolic Letter, Pope John Paul II advis-

es us: “But it must be translated into the pastoral initiatives adapted to the circumstances of each community.”(n.29) So the task at hand now for the Catholic Diocese of Sale is to identify a detailed pastoral focus for the years ahead. This would include: “☛ goals and methods ☛ formation and enrichment of the people involved ☛ the search for the necessary resources which will • Enable the proclamation of Christ to reach people • Mould communities • And have a deep and incisive influence in bringing gospel values to bear in society and cultures.” (n.29)

3. OUR MISSIONARY PEOPLE A heightened missionary focus in the Diocese of Sale is not a recent initiative. Indeed, the frontier days of the diocese offer ample evidence of priests and families as true Catholic missionaries and evangelists. Over 170 years ago Irish Catholics first established themselves in the Pakenham area. Their family names included Bourke, O’Connor, Hennessy, Mulcahy and Smith. Their priests who visited them included Fr Daniel McEvey and Fr Patrick Bonaventure Geoghegan. In the late 1850s Catholics in the Tarraville area petitioned for a Church presence in the Port Albert and central Gippsland area after a visit from Fr Philip Kavanagh. Interestingly, the remarkable pioneering priests that followed (e.g. Frs. Verling, Holohan, Courtney, Niall, McGirr, Hayes and Hegarty) described their regions as the Gippsland MISSION. They were required to travel huge distances to visit their parishioners. We hear also of the Bairnsdale and the Warragul MISSIONS. These frontier priests and families worked together to build up the Catholic presence in the diocese. We are so grateful to the Lord for their pastoral efforts. The Irish Catholics were joined by Scottish, Dutch, Italian and Maltese and many others. Schools have been established in abundance as the diocese has grown. Today over 15,000 students attend our primary or secondary schools. No matter whether the parish is established in the urbanised West of the diocese, or the large regional centres, or the remote rural townships, we can find strong families still very keen to work in with their priests to mature the Catholic presence in a given area. In more recent years a renewed missionary focus is evident when newer Australians move into the diocese. We can all witness this change in parish life, especially in the Western region of the diocese. So many wonderful Catholics from lands like Sri Lanka, India, Philippines, Africa and Mauritius, and so on, are making a contribution to our Catholic life. They are bringing with them their deep Catholic faith and culture. Zeal for evangelisation and missionary activity is natural to them. For some, their Catholic faith was born in lands where our faith was suppressed or in the minority. So many too are part of various new ecclesial communities and are profoundly devotional in their piety. We have much to learn from them about newer types of evangelisation. We are blessed to continue our tradition of welcoming priests from overseas. At the same time, we pray fervently for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life from our own local soil.

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Finding Home in Jesus Through all this, and so much more, we can see the Spirit of the Living God helping people in FINDING HOME IN JESUS. We want to be part of this wonderful movement of the Holy Spirit in our times. We want the Holy Spirit to use us. We want to become real witnesses of the Resurrection of Jesus – evangelisers in our Catholic Tradition for our time. This is the Church’s deepest identity.iv Here are some characteristics to be found in Catholic evangelisers.

4. A CONTINUAL PENTECOST The word “new evangelisation” ought not puzzle us. It simply means “to propose once again to human society the entire gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ.”(Ecclesia in Oceania, 18 ii). It is Jesus who is the first evangeliser. iii His saving events, culminating in the sending of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, frees us from sin and evil. We are gifted with grace and mercy. We are immersed into the Kingdom of God. We read our scriptures and immediately notice the difference in the disciples after the Pentecost experience. It is a true conversion experience for them. They become courageous and fearless in professing their faith. They join together in deep communion with each other as the Church grows. In FINDING HOME in the Church community, they are sent forth in the power of the Trinity to assist others in FINDING HOME IN THE RISEN JESUS. They are most attentive to the needs of the poor and suffering. They see the suffering Christ in them. We can see here inseparable links between personal conversion to Jesus, sacramental life in the Church community, and evangelisation. We ought pray for a continuous Pentecost in our own lives too for our need is so great.

5. SOME CHARACTERISTICS OF CATHOLIC EVANGELISATION We are living in a golden age of magisterial teaching on evangelisation. We have the treasures of the Vatican II Council documents, the insights of Popes John XXII, Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI. We witness the examples of holiness in Our Lady of Perpetual Help, our diocesan patroness, and Mary of the Cross MacKillop. We are learning much of evangelisation at the local level via new Catholics involved in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Various types of prayer groups have much to offer us. The conversion experiences we witness in our youth through the World Youth Days are encouraging.

1. ALL BAPTISED ARE TO EVANGELISE Relying totally on the Holy Spirit, all baptised are called to evangelise. This witness varies according to one’s state in life. As successors of the Apostles, the Pope and Bishops continue the apostolic tradition of teaching, sanctifying and governing the People of God. Priests are their closest co-workers in this task. The Religious Brothers and Sisters are eloquent evangelisers in their consecrated life. We recognise wonderful lay leaders in our parishes. At the same time, it is the laity whose prime task is the evangelisation of the world. They are “to put to use every Christian and evangelical possibility, latent but already present and active in the affairs of the world.” (Evangelii Nuntiandi, 70 v). 2. WE EVANGELISE ON THREE LEVELS 2.1 TO THE ACTIVE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY All of us have a responsibility to deepen our Catholic faith. Continual Adult Education can help us. To deepen our relationship with the Lord in prayer and our love for the Sacraments and apostolic works requires careful attention. Many opportunities are offered. Even the internet and media can provide us with helpful Catholic websites.vi Our life in parish communities is rich in opportunities to participate in the life of the Church. We can witness our common faith by participating fully in the liturgical and devotional life of our communities. Our schools also are enriched by the contribution of parishioners. We find there many opportunities for evangelisation and leading people in FINDING HOME IN JESUS. Practical works of mercy are an essential part of our missionary life. Our outreach in works of justice and mercy are expressions of our love of Jesus who comes to us in the guise of the poor, hungry and unemployed. Strengthening marriage and family life in our troubled times is of particular importance. 2.2 TO THOSE WHO ARE NO LONGER CHRISTIANS In our secularist world, growing numbers argue today that happiness in life is not dependent on faith. They might be people who grew up in our Catholic life but are now estranged from the living springs of salvation that Christ offers. We may find them in our families, parishes and schools. Often we find them in our workplaces and sporting groups. By proposing rather than imposing our faith, we are to reach out to them afresh. It may simply be by inviting them to participate in our Christmas or Easter liturgies or faith groups. We hear that many are looking for such invitations and gentle encouragement to come back from unbelief to belief. Our silent witness of faith is never to be underestimated. As Pope Paul VI has said: Modern man listens more to witnesses than to teachers, if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses (EN 41 vii) We need to support new ecclesial movements (e.g. prayer groups, often led by migrants). They have special gifts in calling forth renewed faith in those yearning to find a home in Jesus and His Church. Let us learn from them and participate in their outreach. New types of “Missions” and “Retreats” are emerging in our midst. They are signs of the presence of the Holy Spirit, the principal agent of evangelisation (EN 75 viii).

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Finding Home in Jesus

2.3 TO THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER BEEN CHRISTIAN. We need new ways to express our Catholic faith – “new in its ardour, methods and expression”ix to reach out to those who are not Christian. Catholic evangelisation is noted for its subtly of proposing and never imposing or proselytising. But we must never be afraid of proposing Christ in the new cultural circumstances of humanity. The content of our faith remains the same, but the context to which assist others in FINDING HOME IN CHRIST does change. As Pope Paul VI states: For the Church, evangelising means bringing the Good News into all the strata of humanity, and through its influence transforming humanity from within and making it new.” (EN 18 x)

6. OUR FUTURE FOCUS The diversity of the communities present in Gippsland and beyond are as varied as our beautiful scenery. Geographically, our parishes are becoming mission centres once again. But now our efforts are directed towards dense urban centres in the West, rural regional centres and somewhat remote country towns in east, south and central Gippsland.

to respond on both these levels. So the question becomes: “In the Diocese of Sale, what ought we BE and DO to respond afresh to the challenges of presenting the Good News of Jesus Christ in our times and in our place?” Or again: “How can we co-operate with the promptings of the Holy Spirit in our times in helping people in FINDING HOME IN JESUS?” The word “home” suggests such great inner yearnings in the human heart. The Psalmist says: “In you, O Lord, all make their HOME”xiv. Our deepest stirrings know that to be true. By what methods and by what motivations can we make that inner truth more of a reality in our world? So let us all discuss prayerfully the issues this pastoral letter raises. I encourage this to take place across the diocese in family, parish and schools, regional communities and work place, in the silence of our hearts and in our prayers. You may find the questions attached to this letter a help in such discussions. I finish with a prayer to bless our discussions in the times ahead.

Heavenly Father, You are great and almighty. Guide us and lead us. We want to follow you in the Diocese of Sale as our leader in evangelisation. Send you Holy Spirit upon our discussions as we follow humbly your promptings. May Our Lady of Perpetual Help, our patroness, Lead us to the Father of all mercies. We make this prayer through Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Saviour. AMEN

Then there are other levels of our shared humanity – social and cultural. We are to bring Christ to the worlds, for example, of sport, science, medicine, youth, finance, retail, entertainment, migrants, poor, communications, peace, meaning, business and so on. According to the teaching of Pope John Paul in Redemptoris Missioxi these areas are among the new fields of evangelisation emerging before us. There can be no doubt that we are Catholics through the grace of God and the nurturing in the faith we have received from our families and so many others. For this we must be forever grateful. We have been evangelised by people. We are being evangelised daily because our need is great and Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, never stops drawing closer to us. Our Pope, Bishops, Priests and Deacons are forever present to us to guide and strengthen us in our missionary Church. But this is only half the story. The evangelised are to take their part in evangelising. How has this taken place already? Although our terminology may be different to what we have been familiar with to date, the reality is surely the same. Namely, God is using us to assist people in FINDING HOME IN JESUS. How can we open ourselves to allow the Lord Jesus, the first evangeliser, to use us more completely in the future? We are to serve the further opening out of the Kingdom of God in our midst xii. But the world today seems so complicated and sophisticated. At the same time, recent Papal teaching and examples of evangelisation have opened new doors for us. Jesus used the humble YES of the Virgin Mary to begin His entry into our world in the Incarnation. He has used countless saints and men and women of profound holiness, like Mary of the Cross MacKillop, to allow the Holy Will of God to come about. We pray that Jesus will continue to use us all. Pope Benedict XVI comments that it all begins with our fundamental encounter with the God of love, Jesus Christ. Being Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, a person, which gives life a new horizon and a decisive direction.xiii Pragmatic Australians may respond to this challenge by asking “What ought we do?” It is a good question and needs to be raised. But a deeper challenge may need to be asked simultaneously: “What ought we be?” This latter question requires a more contemplative response. Deep prayer is the soul of all true missionary action. Over the next period of time, I ask all of us in the Diocese of Sale

References: i Novo Millennio Ineunte, Apostolic Letter, Pope John Paul II, 2001 ii Ecclesia in Oceania, Apostolic Exhortation, Pope John Paul II, 2001 iii Evangelii Nuntiandi, Apostolic Exhortation, Pope Paul VI, 1975, 7. iv Ibid., 14 v Ibid., 70 vi Ecclesia in Oceania, 21 vii Evangelii Nuntiandi, 41 viii Ibid., 75 ixVeritatis Splendor, Encyclical Letter, Pope John Paul II, 1993, 106. x Evangelii Nuntiandi, 18 xi Redemptoris Missio, Encyclical Letter, 1990, 37-38 xii Redemptoris Missio, 12-20 xiii Deus Caritas Est, Encyclical Letter, Benedict XVI, 2005, 1 xiv Psalm 87

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Finding Home in Jesus Questions for Reflection “In you, O Lord, all make their home” - (Psalm 87)

1. OUR CATHOLIC VISION 1.1 How would you describe “our deepest humanity”? 1.2 When have you felt most strongly that you were sent out as a missionary to the world? 1.3 Explore what it means to “find a home in Jesus”.

2. PASTORAL INITIATIVES 2.1 What are you most grateful for about Journeying Together? 2.2 What “goals and methods” do you see as important means of achieving “a detailed focus for the years ahead”? 2.3 What “formation and enrichment of the people involved” are required to achieve and sustain these goals?

3. OUR MISSIONARY PEOPLE 3.1 Recall some examples from your own experience “of priests and families as true Catholic missionaries and evangelists”. 3.2 What differences do you think “the Catholic presence” makes to the area you live in? 3.3 What memories do you have of the Scottish, Dutch, Italian, Maltese and others joining your community? 3.4 In what ways has your family worked with priests to develop the Catholic presence in your area? 3.5 What can we learn about “being Catholic” from people whose origins are countries such as Sri Lanka, India, Philippines, Africa and Mauritius? 3.6 In what ways can you help to foster vocations to the priesthood and the religious life?

4. A CONTINUAL PENTECOST 4.1 How would you explain the word “evangelisation” to those who are not familiar with it? 4.2 Where do you see the Church being “most attentive to the needs of the poor and suffering”? 4.3 Think about someone whom you believe to be a Spirit-filled person. How does their life show this?

5. SOME CHARACTERISTICS OF CATHOLIC EVANGELISATION Think of someone you know who has had a conversion experience, or is seeking God in new and deeper ways. What do you think led to this change? 5.1. ALL BAPTISED ARE TO EVANGELISE 5.1.1 How can baptised people show that they take seriously, their call by God to evangelise others? 5.2 WE EVANGELISE ON THREE LEVELS A TO THE ACTIVE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY 1. How do you deepen your relationship with God? 2. Reflect on how engaging in practical works of mercy benefits both the giver and the receiver.

3. In what ways can marriage and family life be strengthened? B TO THOSE WHO ARE NO LONGER CHRISTIANS 1. What do you think stops people from returning to the practice of their faith? 2. Recall an example of someone who returned to the practice of their faith. What brought about this change? 3. What do you think attracts people to becoming Catholics? 4. What is the difference between “proposing rather than imposing our faith”? Why is it such an important distinction? 5. Think of someone who influenced your growth in faith. How did their lives reveal their faith? 6. In what ways can joining a parish prayer group or making a retreat support your faith? 7. Why do you think more people do not take up these opportunities? C TO THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER BEEN CHRISTIAN 1. Why is it true that we need “new ways to express our Catholic faith… to reach out to those who are not Christian”? 2. What are some examples these new ways “new in ardour, methods and expression”? 3. What are the new “mission centres” today? 4. In what ways can you “bring Christ to the(se) worlds”?

6. OUR FUTURE FOCUS 6.1 Why is it essential that we consider: “How can we open ourselves to allow the Lord Jesus, the first evangeliser, to use us more completely in the future?” 6.2 How can we follow the legacy of Mary MacKillop in our own lives and foster it in the diocese? 6.3 What is my response to the question: “In the Diocese of Sale, what ought we BE and DO to respond afresh to the challenges of presenting the Good News of Jesus Christ in our times and in our place?” 6.4 What is my response to the question: “How can we co-operate with the promptings of the Holy Spirit in our times in helping people in FINDING HOME IN JESUS?” 6.5 Reflect on the richness of the word “home.” 6.6 How can we lead people in our world to find their home in Jesus?

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Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?

(Mark10:17)

Good Youth News with Jess Denehy & Kelly Lucas LAST weekend we had the opportunity to be led by Fr Chris Ryan and the CSYMA youth team in the mini-retreat “Recharge”. It seems that every time Fr Chris opens his mouth we are given the gift of a new understanding, a gentle wisdom to ponder. Recharge was no exception! Fr Chris reminded us how important nourishing our relationship with God is, and without prioritising time to enjoy and explore this relationship we will soon be pretty dried-up and useless as youth ministry workers. With this in mind we’d like to offer youth ministry volunteers and leaders the opportunity to subscribe to a weekly “Youth Leader Training on the Go” email. The weekly handouts are designed to encourage and strengthen you in your ministry,

and to empower you to be more effective players in your ministry team. You can use these for your own personal use or share them with your team or mentor to generate discussion and prayer. It is hoped that they will be a positive shot in your youth ministry arm without being too cumbersome or time intensive. If you would like to subscribe to “Youth Leader Training on the Go” please email Jess on jessd@sale.catholic.org.au. Believe it or not school holidays are just around the corner and once again as the Youth Ministry Office would once again like to invite teenagers to participate in a youth retreat. This retreat will be held July 79 at the Iona Parish Centre. Registration details will be posted on our website soon. If you are a senior secondary

student or a young adult and are interested in participating as a small group leader for this retreat please contact Jess on 5126 1063 or via email. Finally, if you have been living under a rock and haven’t got your hands on the details of our diocesan pilgrimage to World Youth Day Madrid in August 2011 yet please check out the website or drop us a line so we can email you all the information. Registrations open soon so it you are planning to be a WYD2011 pilgrim now is the time to ramp up your fundraising efforts. Adios, Jess & Kelly

Hola! (Hello) to WYD in Madrid

P.S. Best of luck to all those participating in the State Youth Games over the Queen’s Birthday weekend!

Recharged on road to Emmaus FR Chris Ryan MGL invited participants at the recent youth ministry leader’s Recharge retreat to walk with Cleopas on the road to Emmaus. Recharge aimed to give participants an afternoon of prayer, reflection and skill-building – an opportunity to recharge their spiritual battery. Fr Chris was the coordinator for the Journey of the World Youth Day Cross and Icon and has many years experience working with young people in both school and parish environments. He was joined by the national CSYMA youth team to facilitate this mini-retreat for youth ministry leaders and volunteers. Fr Chris emphasised how essential it is for those working in youth ministry to take time out to spend some quality time with Jesus. He asked participants to imagine themselves walking alongside Cleopas on the road to Emmaus (the place we run away to when things start to get to tough!). Like Cleopas and his travelling companion our hearts will be set alight listening to the Word of God and our eyes will be opened in the breaking of the bread. Fr Chris urged participants if need

JESS Van Diemen signs up for Madrid. By Kelly Lucas

CHRISTINE and Matt at the Recharge event in Warragul. be to schedule time out in their diaries to let everything else go and to meet Jesus in the Mass. He reminded participants that sometimes we can get so busy volunteering and organising that we forget to nourish our own relationship with God. Taking time out to hear from God, to be refreshed, and to

focus on the depth of our own heart for God is essential to sustainable youth ministry. A special thank you to Fr Chris and the CSYMA youth team for leading this mini-retreat and giving the youth ministry leaders and volunteers in our diocese an opportunity to Recharge.

THE World Youth Day Madrid 2011 travelling information sessions hit the road last month. With presentations held at various locations around the diocese pilgrims, both new and past, turned up to hear what Diocese of Sale has planned for the next international WYD. Many of these who turned out were current youth ministry students from our colleges. These students were too young to attend WYD in Sydney 2008 but they don’t want to miss out this time. We also had many past pilgrims

who still have the flame from Sydney alive in them and they want to encourage other young adults to get involved this time. It was also great to see some of our young teachers along the way. Teachers from both primary and secondary schools came to find out how they too can get involved in WYD Madrid. Other teachers attended to find out how their students can get the most from the experience. If you or your school, parish or group would like to hear more about WYD jump onto our website www.sale.catholic. org.au or contact us at the youth ministry office.

National team visits By Kelly Lucas AT the beginning of 2010, the all-new CSYMA National Youth Ministry Team was formed. The team is being led by several energetic young graduates of the youth ministry course, each of whom began their journey in youth ministry back in 2007 with the original formation of CSYMA. James Fitzpatrick is the national team leader for 2010. Graduating in ’09 as college captain and dux of St Edmund’s College, James is spending this year as an ambassador for the development of CSYMA nation-wide. His skills lie in leadership, public speaking, multiPICTURED LEFT: The National CSYMA team with students from Nagle College, Bairnsdale.

media and social justice. The team’s challenge in 2010 is to help develop and implement the CSYMA course nation-wide, providing teachers and students with the necessary skills and understanding to be able to flourish and develop in their own personal journeys throughout the course. The team travelled through our diocese this month, providing presentations and retreats to students and teachers alike. A typical school visit and workshop included separate retreat like presentations including dramas, testimonies, multi-media, activities and more. Students from across our schools thoroughly enjoyed the National teams visit and many are now eager to get involved in CSYMA at their own schools. The variety of presentation styles helped engage students and the peer to peer ministry made a big impact.

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The triumphant return to Sale of Bishop Corbett THE first Bishop of Sale Diocese, formed in 1887, was Dr James Corbett, parish priest of St Kilda and a senior priest of the Melbourne Archdiocese. His arrival in Sale after returning from an overseas trip was recorded in the Catholic paper The Advocate of March 8, 1890. The Right Rev. Dr Corbett, Bishop of the Diocese, arrived in Sale by the 1.47pm train from Melbourne on Saturday last, and was accorded a most enthusiastic reception. On either side of the gangway was a line of children – the girls dressed in white, and carrying neat bouquets of flowers. At about five minutes to two the train steamed into the station, and on the bishop stepping on to the platform three ringing cheers were given, which were repeated as the nuns and priests respectively alighted from their compartments. The bishop and party were accompanied from Melbourne by the Very Rev. P. O’Donohoe and the Rev. D.B. Verlin, who met the Ormuz on her arrival at Williamstown. The cheers on the platform having subsided, his Lordship was conducted to the carriage, and with Fr O’Donohoe took their seats therein. The procession was then arranged in the following order: St Mary’s school fife and drum band, the children attending St Mary’s school, with an escort of about 30 horsemen, the vehicles conveying the nuns, the vehicles conveying the clergymen and reception committee, and the private carriages and buggies of the visitors. The procession was an extremely large one, and extended over more than half the distance from the railway station to the Cathedral. Having arrived at the sacred edifice, His Lordship, vested in the usual canonicals, with the priests filed down the Cathedral. They were followed by the nuns, who took up their seats on the front bench opposite the altar of the Blessed Virgin. The Te Deum was then chanted by the choir, after which an appropriate hymn of welcome was rendered with splendid effect by the children of St Mary’s school. This having been concluded, Mr E.M. O’Kelly stepped forward and read the address. ‘To his Lordship the Bishop of Sale. May it please your Lordship – On behalf of the flock committed to your care by Divine Providence, we bid you a hearty welcome home. We most heartily congratulate your Lordship and ourselves on the success which has crowned your efforts to obtain additional clergy and introduce religious into your new diocese. The arrival of priests, already seven in number, marks an important epoch in the ecclesiastical history of Gippsland. The good nuns who accompany your Lordship are a blessing of which we hope to show a fitting appreciation. Among the incidents which marked your Lordship’s visit to Holy Ireland - the heart of English-speaking Catholicism – we note with pride the conferring upon you of the freedom of the ancient and historic city of Limerick.

Gippsland History with Patrick Morgan It also afforded us the deepest gratification to learn that you congratulated the Great English Statesman, William Ewart Gladstone, on his 80th birthday. In doing so you gave utterance to the sentiments of devotedness to the cause of Ireland, and to the brave, gifted and aged champion of her rights which are so deeply implanted in the hearts of your children in Australia. Bearing in mind the difficulties and responsibilities of your recent travels, and as a slight token of our affection and esteem, we beg your acceptance of a carriage and pair of horses, that your Lordship may be enabled to fulfil for many years the high office committed to you to the glory of God and his salvation of souls, is the fervent prayer of your devoted children in Christ.’ Signed – T.R Molphy, vicechairman; John Cullinan, P. Finegan, J.A. McMullan, hon. treas.; Edw. M. O’Kelly, T.R. Molphy. hon. secs. The Bishop in reply said he had travelled over many lands since the last time they met. He had gone through the length of the great Republic of the United States, and he there witnessed what the children of Ireland had done, and were doing, in the cause of religion and patriotism. One place that he visited was in Lower California. No doubt we Victorians were called by some persons great blowers, but he found them blowing hurricanes in California. (Laughter) There are some parts of this colony (Gippsland) where it is said that four acres would not fatten a sheep, but he defied 104 acres to fatten a goat over the desert plains of South California. Some gentlemen who accompanied him pointed out that a particular place was called the garden of California. The Bishop’s reply to them was that if they called that the garden of California, he could show them 50 such gardens near his own home in Gippsland vastly superior to it. One day he visited the great exhibition in Paris. There was an attendant in the Victorian court describing everything. Among other curiosities was one of the many giant gum-trees found in Victoria. The tree however was not at all equal to that big one in their own neighborhood, viz., the one on Lardner’s Track. He soon discovered that the attendant knew little about the tree, or Victoria, in the following amusing manner. The word ‘Narbethong’ was printed in large characters under the drawing of the tree. He asked the attendant what that word meant. “Oh, that’s a name those French fellows gave it,” was the reply; and when he had said the tree was to be found in the State Forest, down near Stony Creek by Footscray, the Bishop turned round to him and asked him if he were aware that there was no State Forest near Footscray.

He said they had heard a good deal about the scenery in other countries. That of the Rocky Mountains was grand, in a certain sense, but it was nothing compared to the scenery to be met with on the Omeo track, and in Croajingolong. It was called grand scenery simply because it was a long distance away from their homes. When he went along the Alps, in Switzerland, he frequently thought of Gippsland, but he considered that he met with no scenery there that was to be compared with that to be seen within 50 or 60 miles of his own door. He thought he had said enough to show them that he did not spare his blow – (laughter) regarding Gippsland. • To be concluded next issue

Bishop James Corbett, first Bishop of Sale

MacKillop releases abound IT seems not a month goes by at the moment without another book on Mary MacKillop being released. This wealth of material leading up to her canonisation later this yeargives us all an opportunity to get involved, on a spiritual level. MARY MACKILLOP - A SPIRITUAL MODEL FOR ALL, by E.J. Cuskelly, published and distributed by St Paul’s Publications, paperback, 48 pages, rrp $4.95. THIS small pocket-sized booklet is by the late Brisbane auxiliary Bishop James Cuskelly, MSC. Written jsut before his death in 1999, it calls people to follow the simple way of Mary MacKillop in walking the way of the cross, and loving her enemies. It begins with the briefest of biographies on the saint and follows with details of the dedication of the shrine at St Stephen’s Cathedral, Brisbane, to Mary MacKillop. The whole book takes no more than 10 minutes to read but brings home the dedication and commitment of a great woman and why we should model ourselves on her life. MARY MACKILLOP - MADE IN AUSTRALIA, Canonisation Edition, by Daniel Lyne, printed and published by St Paul’s Publications, paperback, 96 pages, rrp $14.95. THIS book is a new version of one first published back in 2002 which relies heavily on Mary’s own writings. The updated photographs include one of Pope Benedict praying at her tomb in North Sydney during World Youth Day 2008. This is a good publication because it covers in basic detail the life, trials and successes of our Australian-born saint. It gives some indication of her determination to succeed but also reveals the gentle side of a woman who dedicated her life to

Talking about Books serving others and who would never utter an ill-word against those who obviously betrayed her in her battle with Church officialdom. I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE BIBLE, by Christina Goodings, illustrated by Jan Lewis, published by Lion Hudson, distributed by Rainbow Books, paperback, 46 pages, rrp $19.99 THERE are literally dozens of high class children books, some called children’s Bibles and other called Bible stories. This book enters a slightly different category because as well as telling the main Old Testament and New Testament stories, it provides background information to inform young readers. For instance it points out that the Bible is not the one book but is a collection of 60 odd books and letters, written over centuries, and some passed down by word or mouth for generations before eventually being recorded in writing.

It also explains the different Gospels, how they were originally written in Greek and how John’s Gospel differs from the other three by telling a different version of events. The book is well-presented with great illustrations and is certainly good value. EXPLORE THE BIBLE STICKER BOOK, published by Candle Books, distributed by Rainbow Books, paperback, rrp $14.99. CHILDREN love sticker books so much that there is a danger they will rush through, putting the stickers where they belong and forget to read the text. However, with this book it is obvious from the high quality glossy pages and glossy stickers, that once the sticking exercise is over, it will be a book which is revisited. It covers various Bible peoples, the way they lived, travelled, the costumes they wore and their religious practises.

Central Catholic Bookshop 322 Lonsdale St., Melbourne (Next door to St Francis’ Church)

Visit our website at www.catholicbookshop.com.au Browse through our range of books and sacramental and religious gifts or search for specific items by author, title or keyword Open seven days Phone and mail orders welcome. Credit cards accepted

Phone (03) 9639 0844 custserv@catholicbookshop.com.au

Catholic Life, June 2010 - Page 17

For the Young and Young at Heart Our June colouring contest Time for a Laugh RECENTLY a distraught wife went to the local police station, along with her nextdoor neighbor, to report that her husband was missing. The policeman asked for a description of the missing man. The wife said, “He is 35 years old, 190cm high, has dark eyes, dark wavy hair, an athletic build, weighs 85kg, is soft-spoken, and is good to the children.” The next-door neighbor protested, “Your husband is only 170cm, chubby, bald, has a big mouth, and is mean to your children.” The wife replied, “Yes, but I’m hoping they find a new one who fits the description?” A POLICE officer pulls a man over for speeding and has the following discussion takes place: Officer: “May I see your driver’s licence?” Driver: “I don’t have one. I had it suspended on a drinkdriving charge.” Officer: “May I see the registration papers for this vehicle?” Driver: “It’s not my car. I stole it.” Officer: “The car is stolen?” Driver: “That’s right. But come to think of it, I think I saw the rego papers in the glove box when I was putting my gun in there.” Officer: “There’s a gun in the glove box?” Driver: “Yes sir. That’s where I put it after I shot and killed the woman who owns this car and stuffed her in the boot.” Officer: “There’s a body in the boot??” Driver: “Yes, sir.” Hearing this, the officer immediately calls for backup. The car was quickly surrounded by police, and the inspector approached the driver to handle the tense situation: Inspector: “Sir, can I see your licence?” Driver: “Sure. Here it is.” It was valid. Inspector: “Who’s car is this?” Driver: “It’s mine, officer. Here’s the rego papers”. The driver owned the car. Inspector: “Could you slowly open your glove box so I can see if there’s a gun in it?” Driver: “Yes, sir, but there’s no gun in it.” Sure enough, there was nothing in the glove box. Inspector: “Would you mind opening your boot? I was told you said there’s a body in it.” Driver: “No problem.” The boot is opened; no body. Inspector: “I don’t understand it. The officer who stopped you said you told

him you didn’t have a licence, stole the car, had a gun in the glovebox, and that there was a dead body in the trunk.” Driver: “Yeah, I’ll bet the liar told you I was speeding, too!” AN aged farmer and his wife were leaning against the edge of their pig-pen when the old woman wistfully recalled that the next week would mark their golden wedding anniversary. “Let’s have a party, Homer,” she suggested. “Let’s kill a pig.” The farmer scratched his grizzled head. “Gee, Ethel,” he finally answered, “I don’t see why the pig should take the blame for something that happened 50 years ago.” A PRIEST was driving down a country lane and comes across a young farmer struggling to load hay back onto a trailer after it had fallen off. “You look hot, my son,” said the priest. “Why don’t you rest a moment, and I’ll give you a hand.” “No thanks,” said the young man. “My father wouldn’t like it.” “Don’t be silly,” the priest said. “Everyone is entitled to a break. Come and have a drink of water.” Again the young man protested that his father would be upset. Losing his patience, the priest said, “Your father must be a real slave driver. Tell me where I can find him and I’ll give him a piece of my mind!” “Well,” replied the young farmer, “he’s under the load of hay.” Jenny: ‘Mum, I got a 100 in school today!’ Mum: ‘That’s wonderful! What did you get a 100 in?’ Jenny: ‘Two things. I got 40 in maths and 60 in spelling.’

e Catholic Lif

Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Age . . . . . . Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Send entries to: Colouring Contest, c/- Catholic Life, PO Box 183, Sale. 3853

And this month’s winner is...

✰✰Ethan O’Loan, Narre Warren✰ ✰✰ ETHAN is 8-years-old and goes to Mary MacKillop Primary School in Narre Warren North. His prize will be delivered shortly. Meanwhile, everyone else should try their skill in colouring this month’s picture and you could be a winner.

A BUSINESSMAN was arranging the furniture in his new office when a bunch of flowers arrived with the words “Rest in Peace” written on the accompanying card. Bewildered he rang the florist to ask the sender’s name. “Oh no,” said the florist. “That means there is a funeral taking place with a card on a bunch of flowers reading ‘I hope you like your new location’.” A WISE teacher sent this note home after a pupil’s first day at school. “If you promise not to believe everything your child says happens at school, I promise not to believe everything he says happens at home.”

PROUDLY displaying the book prizes they won in the Catholic Life colouring contests in March and April are Huey Grubb (left) who attends St Thomas’s Primary School in Sale and Georgia Dowling who attends St Catherine’s Primary School in Berwick South.

Page 18 - Catholic Life, June 2010

Youth ministry alive at SFX Bishop’s NATSIC Sunday message By Len Cooke

BEACONSFIELD - St Francis Xavier College Remar and CSYMA students have been busy over the last few months. Just before Easter members of the Blue Remar caravel successfully ran six sessions as part of the Year 8 Healthy Relationships day at the Berwick campus. The Gold caravel moved parishioners from St Patrick’s Pakenham with their silent and at times confronting interpretation of the Stations of the Cross. The CSYMA youth ministry team also gave up part of their school holidays to participate in the leadership retreat run by the Youth Ministry Office. Starting with the Palm Sunday event students then headed over to Marist Sion College for two nights of prayer, workshops, discussions and fun. Since returning from the retreat the team have been planning St Francis Xavier Day and the National CSYMA conference for next term. Early in term two CSYMA students spent an evening workshopping with four CSYMA gaps who had come down from Canberra to pass on their youth ministry skills, experience and

spirituality. These students later led their Year 11 peers in liturgy prior to ‘The Journey So Far’ activities where past students come back to the college and share their stories since leaving the St Francis Xavier College. All three Remar caravels travelled into the city on Saturday April 24 where they shared a meal, grabbed a few hours sleep before setting off to the ANZAC Dawn service to be part of the 40,000 people to prayerfully remember those who had given

their life for their country. Over the first weekend of May Remar students from Marist Sion and St Francis Xavier joined with Remar caravels from all over Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania for the Blue retreat at Catholic College Wodonga. Here students examined their faith in greater depth with a view to commit more deeply in living as Christ’s disciples.

THE Catholic Church has officially designated the first Sunday in July as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sunday thus encouraging Catholics locally to focus their worship on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their culture and the issues of social justice they represent. In the first week in July Australians throughout the country celebrate together the survival of Aboriginal peoples, the continuation of Aboriginal culture and the contribution that Indigenous Australian make to the nation. Bishop Christopher Prowse has written a message which accompanies a prayer for reconciliation produced on small cards by the Victorian Aboriginal Council. Sale Diocese is represented on the council by Colleen Harney and Marion Pearce

who are both from Bairnsdale parish. Bishop Prowse’s message:

“Reconciliation with our First Australians is an unending task for all of us. It is to be in our hearts through frequent prayer and change of attitudes. It is to be in our actions that are genuine and ongoing and never forms of superficial tokenism. It is to be in our communities and families that the future will not simply reinvent the tragic mistakes of the past in new forms. Surely, this would contribute to a real reconciliation with our dear Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. May this be our prayer and hope.”

Healesville visit

• The writer is Remar coordinator at St Francis Xavier College.

Vinnies is lending a hand THE largest volunteer organisation in Australia, and probably the world, is known as the St Vincent de Paul Society. It began in France in the early 1800’s and has been operating in Victoria since 1854. Its mission states: The St Vincent de Paul Society is a lay, Catholic organisation that aspires to live the Gospel message by serving Christ in the poor with love, justice and joy, and by working to shape a more just and compassionate society. At the grassroots level of the society are “conferences”. These conferences are usually parish or town based and they exist to meet the challenge of providing a “hand up” rather than a “hand out” to those people in the community who find themselves in hardship circumstances. In East Gippsland there are five conferences, based in Bairnsdale, Orbost, Sale, Maffra and Heyfield. Typically these conferences have Catholic members, but frequently non-catholic people who share the vision are welcomed and work alongside them. Through a variety of means, conference members hear about people who are in needy circumstances. Members, working in pairs,

make contact and then go and visit them, usually in their home. Their circumstances and needs are investigated and a plan is drawn up to help alleviate the immediate problems, and guidance is given for future action. Sometimes one visit is all that is needed but often problems exist for an extended period. But it takes money to alleviate many people’s problems. That’s where the “Vinnies” shops come into the picture. These shops are run quite separately from the conferences, but still under the umbrella of the SVDP society. They’re run by a paid manager and volunteer staff. They receive donations of used clothing, furniture, white goods, books, kitchenware and knick-knacks from the generosity of the wider community. These are sold at very low prices which has two benefits. Firstly, the Vinnies’ shop is a source of cheap, essential items for anyone on a restricted budget.

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Secondly, the profit from the sale of goods is then passed onto the local conference to finance their work with the needy. This is a win-win situation for all involved. The society is always on the lookout for volunteers. Do you have the time, and the interest in joining the valuable work of SVDP? If so, are you interested in working in a conference or a Vinnies shop? Why not contact your local St Vincent de Paul Society and discuss the possibilities. You could even get more out of volunteering than you imagine.

MADISON, Sarah, Emily and Tarra-Grace take shelter under one of Healesville’s giant trees. TRARALGON - In conjunction with their unit of work on “ Australian Animals”, students from Grades 1 and 2 at St Michael’s Primary School in Traralgon recently visited Healesville Sanctuary. There they were able to watch the spectacular Birds of Prey

presentation starring the wedgetailed eagle, visit the animal hospital and observe and handle many Australian animals in their natural habitat. As well as being lots of fun, the day was a great learning experience for the children.

Reflect On Your Life A CDF Pre-Paid Funeral plan allows you to arrange and pay for your funeral in advance at today's prices with the funeral director of your choice. Neither you nor those you leave behind will have to worry about it again. CDF Pre-Paid Funerals are the only Fund established specifically for South Eastern Victoria. Monies paid are invested locally through the government approved Trust Fund. Organise and pay for your CDF Pre-Paid Funeral through any participating funeral director within Gippsland, Mornington Peninsula and outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne. For more information contact:

CDF Pre-Paid Funerals 65 Foster St Sale 3850 Phone 5144 4311 Email: cdf@sale.catholic.org.au

Catholic Life, June 2010 - Page 19

Mission support increases DESPITE Australian households being buffeted by the global financial crisis of late 2008, Catholic Mission’s donors defied all expectations with their generosity to our appeals in 2009, increasing the amount of funds allocated to global mission projects in 160 countries. Figures released last week in Catholic Mission’s 2009 annual report show an increase in donations from $12.47 million in 2008 to $12.9 million in 2009. In 2009, total gross donations from Sale Diocese totalled $61,369.50. The outstanding appeal was $34,548 raised for Catholic Mission’s work with Communities. Nationally, the deep concern Australians share for the world’s vulnerable and impoverished children was underscored by increased donations to this ministry, up from $4.5 million to $4.7 million. Elsewhere, donations to Catholic Mission’s work with

missionaries, local churches and communities increased from $6.99 million to $7.13 million. These funds directly assist community-based projects in Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Americas. One third of donations support the work of the Church in outback Australia, particularly with Aboriginal people. National director of Catholic Mission, Martin Teulan said “Our prayers and thanks go out to all our donors and bequestors for their support in turning around what had been a decline in our donations in 2008. “In this Year for the Priest, I am particularly grateful to our priests and bishops for their wonderful support. They do great work to assist our major appeal in October for World Mission Month and as individual givers priests are extremely generous.” Mr Teulan said the one area of fundraising he would like to

improve in 2010 was Catholic Mission’s ‘Working with Church Leaders’ program, which includes the financial support Catholic Mission International gives to the formation of 77,000 seminarians in 900 seminaries around the world. “In a country like Vietnam there are hundreds of good men waiting to join seminaries but for a lack of support. In Uganda there are devout women who can’t become novices for the same reason. The need to form the next generation of Catholic leaders is an integral part of our mission.” Catholic Mission’s 2009 annual report highlights • Working with Communities raised $7.13 million ($6.99m in 2008 ) • Working with Children raised $4.73 million ($4.517m in 2008) • Working with Church Leaders raised $784,978 ($932,635 in 2008).

Bushfire scholarship award

Lavalla students at Holocaust Museum

JEWISH Holocaust survivors with Lavalla students Lily Turner and Mitchell Caufield. TRARALGON - VCAL students at Lavalla Catholic College recently attended the Jewish Holocaust Museum as part of their VCAL year 11 Literacy studies. Teacher Mark Warnock said “It is important for our students to be challenged about the past. In order to look forward we need to acknowledge the past and learn from our mistakes”. Students from Mr Warnock’s class travelled to Melbourne to visit the museum.

The students participated in an education program where they had the opportunity to ask questions, tour the museum and hear from holocaust survivors about their experiences. Student Lily Turner was chosen to light a memorium candle and along with Mitchell Caulfield, placed the candle in the memorium room. It was a very rewarding experience for the students from Lavalla Catholic College.

Xt3 - Activating the WYD spirit

SCHOLARSHIP recipient Jarryd Rankin (centre) with Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund chairman Pat McNamara and the Hon. Bronwyn Pike. FORMER Lavalla Catholic Jarryd with $15,000 annually encourage country and rural stuCollege student, Jarryd Rankin until he completes his tertiary dents directly affected by the recently attended the qualification. Currently Jarryd bushfires to avail of opportuniDepartment of Education and is studying a Bachelor of Arts at ties in metropolitan areas. Early Childhood Development Monash Clayton. Mr McNamara expressed Scholarship Awards Ceremony In attendance were the Hon. gratitude to the people of at Treasury Theatre, Melbourne. Bronwyn Pyke MP, and Victoria Victoria and Australia who Jarryd was one of the 66 stu- Bushfire Appeal Fund chairman donated $390 million of which dents being awarded with a Pat McNamara. $33 million will be used to fund Victoria Bushfire Scholarship. Both spoke of the hope that these scholarships from the This scholarship will provide these scholarships would Bushfire Appeal.

Xt3 is a content driven social networking site, which combines the functionality of the most common social networks, with a broad resource base of the latest media that relates to the Catholic faith. Xt3 was the official social network of WYD08. It is owned and operated by the Archdiocese of Sydney, with the guidance and support of Cardinal George Pell, Archbishop of Sydney. Xt3 stands for Christ (Xt) in the 3rd Millennium. Xt3 aims to help young people connect with others who share an interest in knowing more about the Catholic faith, in an interactive and open environment, allowing them to plug in to the Church and discuss the topics that confront young people in a modern day Church. In order to link pilgrims from

Celebrating 40 years of priesthood MAFFRA - Fr Frank Young, parish priest of Maffra and Heyfield, celebrated the 40th anniversary on his ordination on May 23. Parishioners from the Maffra and Heyfield parishes joined with members of his family to celebrate the occasion. A joyful Pentecost Mass in the Maffra Church incorporated special prayers for Fr Young and his family. About 120 people enjoyed a dinner at Duart Homestead in Maffra. Fr Young had insisted no presents were to be given so he received a large, homemade card with appropriate wishes and prayer offerings for him in this

“Year for the Priest”. In a reversal gesture, Fr Young gave those present, lunch at his expense. His ordination Mass was at Trafalgar, and his days as a curate were spent at Yarram, Sale, Maffra and Leongatha. During this time he was easily identified as the priest on a motorbike. His first appointment as parish priest was at Omeo in 1980, followed by Foster, Iona and Maffra. This year he also added Heyfield Parish to his Maffra responsibilities. He declared that his love of his role as a priest is as strong today as it has ever been.

FR Frank Young (right) pictured with some old St Patrick’s College Sale school mates. (from left) Ron Young, Terry Donahoe, John Slattery, Harry Justice, and Dick Moulton.

one WYD to the next to keep their WYD enthusiasm alive, Xt3 has now launched iActiv8 The Road to Madrid 2011! iActiv8 is a special section within Xt3 dedicated to WYD2011. It will have the latest news, features and interviews about WYD Madrid, giving members the opportunity to organise events and fundraising projects as they prepare for the next WYD. iActiv8 is a vital source of information for young pilgrims preparing for Madrid 2011. It will be a platform for sharing the World Youth Day spirit with a global audience of young people, many of whom may not be able to make it to Madrid in person. iActiv8 will be essential to the continuation of the WYD spirit after the pilgrims have left Madrid, and return to their everyday lives as witnesses of the faith. In the spirit of connecting, sharing and building, Xt3 has collaborated with Harvest Pilgrimages to create the official Harvest network page on iActiv8. This page is a hub for all the information that a pilgrim group leader would need, in order to prepare for WYD. There is a discussion board for group leaders to post up questions addressed to Harvest staff, and to share information and ideas with other group leaders from around Australia. There is a news feed direct from Harvest with the latest news and updates. And most importantly, there is the opportunity to link in with every other pilgrim group travelling with Harvest in an online environment. From one WYD to the next, Xt3 is keeping pilgrims connected with the WYD legacy.

Page 20 - Catholic Life, June 2010

From the Bishop’s Diary June 9 - Diocesan Liturgy Team meeting, Traralgon, 1.45pm. June 9 – CDF Board meeting, Sale, 5.30pm. June 11 – Confirmations at Narre Warren, 5.30pm and 7.30pm. June 12 – Confirmations at Narre Warren, 10am and 2pm. June 13 – Confirmations at Narre Warren, 2pm. June 15 - First Mass for Grade 5 children from across diocese, St Mary’s Cathedral, 11am. June 15 – Mass for Catholic College Sale board. June 16 – Diocesan Finance Council meeting, Sale 5.30pm. June 18 – Confirmations at Berwick, 5.30pm and 7.30pm. June 19 – Confirmations at Berwick, 11am.

celebration in Heart region, Sion campus, 6.30pm June 25 – Confirmations at Cranbourne, 7pm. June 26 – Catholic Charismatic Renewal leaders’ day at Warragul. June 26 – Mass to install Siju Makalekalayil as June 19 – Attend talk of acolyte, St Michael’s, John Rick Miller and cele- Traralgon, 7pm. brate Mass, St Michael’s, June 27 – Confirmations Berwick. at Korumburra, 9.30am. June 19 – Confirmations June 27 – Confirmations at Koo Wee Rup, 7pm. at Leongatha, 2pm. June 20 – Confirmations July 1 – Serra Club Mass at Nar Nar Goon, 9am. at St Mary’s Cathedral, June 20 – Confirmations 5.30pm. at Iona, 11am. July 2 – Attend visit of June 22 – Second Mass Immaculee Ilibagiza, at St for Grade 5 students, St Peter’s College, Mary’s Cathedral, 11am. Cranbourne, 7.30pm. June 23 – Meetings of July 12-18 – Episcopal Council of Priests and visit to Nigeria. College of Consultors, July 25-28 – Leading Sale. retreat at Kerala, India. June 24 – Year for Priests

College passes on cheque

Quick calendar

What’s on & when June 11 – Sacred Heart 12-14 – State Youth Games, Lardner Park, Warragul 12 – Immaculate Heart of Mary 13 – Annual street procession and Mass in honor of Feast of St Anthony of Padua, Bairnsdale, 11am 14 – Queen’s Birthday public holiday 15 – Central region meeting, St Ita’s parish meeting room, Drouin, 7.30pm 17 – Valley region meeting, Traralgon, noon 19 – Evangelist John Rick Miller speaking at St Michael’s Church, Berwick, 1.30pm, followed by Mass with Bishop Prowse 24 – Nativity of St John the Baptist 26 – School holidays begin 26 – Catholic Charismatic Renewal leader’s day, Sion Teacher’s Centre, Warragul, 9.30am 29 – Solemnity of Sts Peter and Paul, apostles

July 2 – Rwandan holocaust survivor speaks at St Peter’s College, Cranbourne, 7.30pm 3 – Feast of St Thomas, apostle 5 - Deadline of July Catholic Life 12 – Term three begins 14 - Catholic Life published 22 – Memorial of St Mary Magdalene

August 2

SALE diocesan missions officer Susan Grout visited Lavalla College’s Newborough Campus recently to congratulate students on their generosity and commitment to making a difference for others. She is seen here with campus leaders Chynche Laurins, Mark Larkins, Liam Corrigan and Emily Jeffrey as the cheque for Caritas is passed on.

Shortage of aged care doctors A NATIONAL shortage of aged care doctors has left more than half of nursing homes with no choice but to send residents to hospital emergency departments, Catholic Health Australia found in a national survey. The CHA Survey of Access to General Practice Services in Residential Aged Care found 57 per cent of aged care home respondents had on occasion transferred residents to emergency departments because of a doctor shortage. Eighteen per cent reported having to do so ‘fairly frequently’ or ‘regularly’. CHA chief executive officer Martin Laverty said “The national GP shortage means some older Australians are missing out on seeing a doctor in their home, and instead have to

be admitted to hospital. “It’s not the fault of those hard working doctors who do visit aged care homes. It’s the consequence of not planning years ago for medical shortages as the nation’s population ages. “There are not enough doctors to meet the needs of older Australians who live in residential aged care. Alarmingly, many of the committed doctors who do work in aged care are themselves approaching retirement – which will soon make the shortfall worse.” The CHA network cares for one in every 10 Australians in both hospitals and residential aged care. The survey, carried out in April, reports interaction between aged care homes and general practice to identify doc-

tor service gaps. “Just under 90 per cent of the aged care homes surveyed reported serious concerns about their interaction with GPs, ranging from poor access to communication,” Mr Laverty said. After-hours access to doctors was also a major concern. Many residents were unable to continue seeing their existing GPs after moving into residential aged care. “Aged care homes and doctors need to put solutions to Government as part of the ongoing health reform process to ensure more doctors are encouraged to take up roles in caring for aged care residents,” Mr Laverty said.

- Deadline of August Catholic Life 6 – The Transfiguration 8 – Special collections for Mary MacKillop canonisation 8 – Feast day of Bl Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) 10 – East region meeting, Bairnsdale, 10.30am 11 - Catholic Life published 11 - South region meeting, St Laurence’s parish centre, Leongatha, 11.15am 15 – Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary 17 – Central region meeting, St John’s parish centre, Trafalgar, 7.30pm 19 – Valley region meeting, Moe, noon 20 – Memorial of St Bernard 25 - West region meeting, St Agatha’s parish centre, Cranbourne, 10.30am 28 – Memorial of St Augustine of Hippo 29 – Migrant Sunday diocesan celebration, St Patrick’s Church, Pakenham, 2pm 31 – Closing date for funding requests to Bishops’ Family Foundation

September 1-3 – Australasian Catholic Press Association conference, Hobart 3-5 – Australasian Religious Press Association conference, Hobart 3 – Memorial of St Gregory the Great 5 – Father’s Day 5 – Annual appeal for Priests’

Welfare Foundation 6 - Deadline of September Catholic Life 6-10 –International Priests’ Retreat for Asia-Oceania, Singapore. Bishop Prowse a keynote speaker 15 - Catholic Life published 15 – Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows 16 – National E-Conference – ‘Jesus the Christ’ 18 – School holidays begin 21-24 – Sale Diocese clergy inservice, Corpus Christi, Carlton 21 – Feast of St Matthew, apostle 23 – Memorial of St Pio of Pietrelcino 27 – Memorial of St Vincent de Paul

October 1 – Memorial of St Therese of Lisieux 3 – Daylight saving begins (clocks forward) 4 - Deadline of October Catholic Life 4 – Term 4 begins 4 – Memorial of St Francis of Assisi 7 – Our Lady of the Rosary 13 - Catholic Life published 15 – Memorial of St Teresa 17 – Canonisation of St Mary of the Cross (MacKillop), Rome 18 – Feast of St Luke, evangelist 21 – Valley region meeting, Newborough, noon

November 1 – All Saints Day 1 - Deadline of November Catholic Life 2 – Melbourne Cup (public holiday) 2 – All Souls Day 9 – East region meeting, Orbost, 10.30am 10 - Catholic Life published 10 - South region meeting, St Laurence’s parish centre, Leongatha, 11.15am 13 – Memorial of St Francis Xavier November 13-14 – Celebration of 120th anniversary of foundation of Our Lady of Sion Convent, Sale 13 – Noon Mass celebrated by Bishop Prowse at Sion Sisters’ graves at Sale Cemetery 16 – Central region meeting, St Joseph’s parish meeting room, Warragul, 7.30pm 21 – Solemnity of Christ the King 24 - West region meeting, St Agatha’s parish centre, Cranbourne, 10.30am 27 – Victorian State Elections 30 - Deadline of December Catholic Life

December 2 – Valley region Christmas lunch, Morwell Club, noon 8 - Catholic Life published 18 – School holidays begin 24 – Christmas Eve 25 – Christmas Day 26 – Boxing Day 27 – Public holiday in lieu of Christmas Day 28 – Public holiday in lieu of Boxing Day

Catholic Life, June 2010 - Page 21

world news ... world news ... Torres Strait island is slowly drowning as ocean rises WHILE Australia’s politicians debate human-induced climate change, inhabitants of low lying islands across the Pacific know climate change is very real. With World Environment Day last weekend, comes news that rising seas are threatening an island inside Australia’s own territorial waters. Poruma, (formerly known as Coconut Island) is a small island in the Torres Strait Archipelago, between Queensland and Papua New Guinea. A part of Queensland, in the Catholic Diocese of Cairns, Poruma is home to 205 people who have traditionally lived by fishing. They also manage an award-winning resort on the island. But there is another side of Poruma. It is drowning. Rising sea levels, storm surges and salinity in its freshwater wells is making Poruma uninhabitable for its people. When Dolly McGaughey last returned to her island home, the severity of erosion shocked her. “It has all been eaten up by the sea. The beautiful white beaches of my childhood have gone underwater. Some of the trees I knew then are gone,” Dolly told Catholic Mission. “To look for the places where I used to play and see they had vanished was hurtful. The island is sand built up on coral and with the sea level rising all the time. It’s just eating the sand. One day it’s going to be just coral reef.” said Dolly. Where once there was a freshwater well, now the well water is salty, said Dolly. “The people are trying to plant trees on the beach but they just get washed away again, or the rough winds just rip them out. There is nothing we can do about it.”

Dolly McGaughey Born on Poruma in 1945, Dolly McGaughey, 65, is the Torres Strait Islander representative of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Catholic Council. She feels helpless about the destruction of Poruma and has empathy with other Torres Strait island people who are experiencing similar devastation, such as on Masig (Yorke Island) and Saibai in the Western Group near the PNG border. She fears that they too may be driven off their islands. But she is conflicted by strong emotions in even raising the issue. This is her ancestral home. “We are one spiritual people. We have sacred places, burial grounds. Part of the cemetery that is on the sisterly island has been washed away. Although repairs have been carried out, what about the future as the water level rises? That is bad for our people. These are the bones

Russian icon restorations MOSCOW - Two icons covered in plaster on towers of the Moscow Kremlin are being restored. It is believed the icons of Christ the Savior and St Nicholas were covered in 1937, as part of celebrations marking 20 years of the Soviet state. The Spasskaya Tower has the icon of Christ the Savior with St Sergius and St Varlaam at his feet.

It was painted in the early 16th Century. The Nikolskaya Tower’s icon of St Nicholas dates back to the late 15th or early 16th Centuries. That icon was damaged by bullets in 1917, but the face survived, which believers hailed as a miracle. The St Andrew the FirstCalled Foundation is funding the restoration project, which it initiated in 2007.

17,000 permanent deacons WASHINGTON - There are more than 17,000 permanent deacons in the dioceses of the United States, a recent study of the U.S. bishops reports. The diaconate is the first of three ranks in ordained ministry. Permanent deacons are those who are not planning to be ordained priests, and who carry out acts of ministry and service in their parishes and dioceses. The study, which is conducted annually, used data collected from 93% of all U.S. dioceses and Eastern Rite eparchies, esti-

mates that there are some 17,047 permanent deacons in the United States, of whom approximately 16,349 are active in ministry. All but one diocese reported having permanent deacons, and 21 dioceses reported having more than 200 permanent deacons, with Chicago having the largest number with 646. An estimated 92 percent of active permanent deacons are married, 4 percent are widowers and 2 percent have never been married.

of your mother or your grandmother, and it hurts the people a lot. “My people are very proud. They won’t move. The elders are not going to move. But it’s necessary for my people to move because the island is disappearing slowly and they must find another place to live. It’s very sensitive.” Despite her reservations, Dolly McGaughey is adamant the issue of her dying island is aired. “I want to get it out there for someone to know, for the world to know. I think it’s important. I am open to a study group coming to the island. I wish there was some kind of funding to see the erosion so that you know I am not exaggerating.” Catholic Mission supports the pastoral care of Torres Strait Islanders and on World Environment Day it called on Australian and Queensland Governments to work to allay the fears of the people of Poruma as to what the future holds for them and their island home.

‘Violence does not lead to peace’ - Benedict XVI VATICAN CITY- Violence does not lead to peace, Benedict XVI repeated “with a heartbroken spirit” days after Israeli soldiers and pro-Palestinian activists clashed aboard a Turkish ship. The Pope made the appeal at the general audience in St Peter’s Square in which he said he was following with “profound trepidation” the tragic events that happened in the proximity of the Gaza Strip. Last week, six ships with some 700 passengers, known as the Gaza Freedom Flotilla, attempted to break through an Israeli naval blockade in order to deliver supplies to Gaza. The confrontation broke out in violence aboard one of the ships causing the loss of many lives and injuries on both sides.. “I feel the need to express my profound grief for the victims of the most painful events, which preoccupy all those who have at heart peace in the area,” he said. “Once again, I repeat with a heartbroken spirit that violence does not resolve controversies, but increases the tragic consequences and generates more violence. “I appeal to all those who have political responsibility at the

local and international level, to search incessantly for just solutions through dialogue, in order to guarantee to the peoples of the area better conditions of life, in concord and serenity. I invite you to join my prayer for the victims, for their families and for all who suffer. May the Lord sustain the efforts of those who do not tire of working for reconciliation and peace.”

Wartime copies L’Osservatore on the Web NEW YORK- Pave the Way Foundation has received permission from the Vatican’ newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, to publish online its archived editions from 1938 to 1945. The New York-based foundation, a non-sectarian organisation whose mission is to identify and try to eliminate obstacles between religions and to initiate positive gestures in order to improve interreligious relations, has been working to discover the facts regarding Pope Pius XII and his efforts to help Jews during World War 2.

Pastoral refresher courses for Indian missionary nuns By Reinhard Backes THE apostolate of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians, covers a vast field. Almost a thousand sisters, are today working in 157 different institutions, above all in India, but also in Italy, South Africa and Hawaii. They work for the spread of the faith, especially among women and children in rural areas. And they also care of street children and orphans, the sick and elderly, AIDS victims and the handicapped – men women and children. The main focus of the work is in India, where the congregation was originally founded in 1942 by the Italian born Bishop of Shillong, Stephen Ferrando, SDB. He wanted to have native-born Indian priests and sisters involved in the pastoral work on the subcontinent. It was an endeavor that was to be blessed with huge success. Today the Missionary Sisters are fully established not only in northeast India but also in the south and southwest of the country. Today the congregation on the Indian subcontinent is divided into five provinces, namely Bangalore, Calcutta, Shillong, Tezpur and Tinsukia. And it continues to grow, with 118 novices and another 100 candidates currently preparing for the religious life – and between them representing no fewer than 45 different ethnic groups.

MISSIONARY Sisters attending one of their refresher courses in India, backed by Aid to the Church in Need. The central headquarters of ling their wide, day-to-day pasthe congregation are situated toral and charitable apostolate. The international Catholic today in the state of Assam in north-east India, in the city (and charity Aid to the Church in Need has been supporting the diocese) of Guwahati. Here too the congregation has congregation for these courses a formation centre where among for many years now. So it was that in the autumn of other things it offers short, inservice courses for the already 2009 ACN helped for an in-servprofessed sisters in such areas as ice course for religious sisters Christian spirituality and in the who have belonged to the contheological and pastoral fields. gregation for 25 years or more. One area of particular impor“The course has encouraged tance is that of spiritual forma- me to think more deeply about tion which, the sisters tell us, is my vocation”, says Sr Veronica centred “the experience of the Basumatary, one of the 14 parDivine, finding expression in ticipants. deep prayer, communion in com“I have begun to better undermunity and genuine love for all”. stand the challenges I face. And These courses, generally last- I have learnt to discover the ing a couple of weeks, are of good in others and to look great help to the sisters in tack- beyond their failings.”

Page 22- Catholic Life, June 2010

Darwin-evolution and the religion-science debate By Terry Synan 2009 marked the bi-centenary of the birth of Charles Darwin, famous as the discoverer of species evolution. Evolution, he determined, had occurred over millions of years. This flew in the face of popular 19th century creationist belief. It is also 150 years since Darwin published his now famous treatise On the Origin of Species. It told about his radical discovery in the field of evolutionary biology, namely, the progression of species by the action of “natural selection”. He declared that the evidence he studied presupposed the “common descent” of life on earth. Naturally, these propositions stirred great controversy in 1860s England. If all living creatures shared a common ancestry what did this imply for those who believed literally in the Genesis version of creation which described how God intervened personally on a daily basis to create the heavens, the earth and the creatures contained therein? Wasn’t man and woman created by God’s direct intervention and did not Adam and Eve, before transgression, reside in the Garden of Eden? Christian England reacted with alarm and hostility. Sections of the press styled the author of these Darwinian propositions “The Devil’s Disciple” – the scientist who sought to dethrone God and turn man into a monkey’s cousin. But Darwin also had his staunch supporters. They acclaimed him “the greatest Englishman since Newton”. During the early 1800s, the religion - science debate began generating much steam as the new sciences of geology, biology, botany, geography and medicine developed apace. The concept of evolution as a possible theory was discussed. Darwin’s genius and scientific findings, however, put natural selection icing on the rising evolutionary cake. Was the creator God about to be deposed? Disputation reached a pinnacle in 1860 during an Oxford University debate on Origin of Species sponsored by the British Association for the Advancement of Science. During the course of his contribution, the Anglican Bishop of Oxford, Dr Samuel Wilberforce, inadvertently chided Thomas Henry Huxley, a loyal and capable Darwin protagonist, by inquiring whether he descended from an ape on his grandmother’s or grandfather’s side. The razor sharp Huxley supposedly replied that he would much rather an ape for a forebear than a person who used his intellectual gifts to ridicule serious scientific discussion. The religion - science debate had been doused with petrol. The debate became strident and polarised as it spread across the English speaking world. Darwin, a sensitive, model scientist battled religious doubt since his 20s. Having attended Edinburgh University with a view to becoming a doctor (like his father, Dr Robert Darwin) he next enrolled at Cambridge University so that he might become an Anglican clergymen (in the style of his Cambridge mentor, Rev John Stevens Henslow).

Charles Darwin During both courses Darwin became far more interested in his naturalist investigations off campus than his studies within. With the assistance of particular scientific mentors he became skilled in exploring novel and unconventional methods of procuring specimens, and in gathering information about the natural world. On leaving Cambridge, and before he could begin studies in divinity, Darwin, in 1831, received a proposal he couldn’t refuse. On the suggestion of Henslow he was offered a berth on the survey ship HMS Beagle, then scheduled to undertake a circumnavigationary voyage with the initial purpose of mapping South American waters. The young Captain Robert Fitzroy requested that a capable naturalist join his crew. Darwin was recommended. That voyage and his experiences as a practising naturalist in South America and the Pacific (including The Galapagos Islands and Australia) made an indelible imprint on the young Darwin and, indeed, in time, across the intellectual world. On his return, Darwin applied himself to the study of the natural world with diligence and hard work for the rest of his life. As evolutionary evidence mounted, Darwin began to have doubts about the historical veracity of the Old Testament. Likewise, he surmised that the New Testament had not been written simultaneously with events described. These insights reflect as much on the poverty of 19th Century theological study as on Darwin’s growing agnosticism. Around 1849 he gave up going to church though Emma, his wife (nee Wedgewood of pottery fame) and the Darwin children continued to do so. Darwin later wrote, “I gradually came to disbelieve in Christianity as a divine revelation… disbelief crept over me at a very slow rate, but was at last complete”. Still struggling with his faith in God he wrote that he was impressed by “the extreme difficulty, or rather impossibility, of conceiving this immense and wonderful universe, including man…as the result of blind chance or necessity. “When thus reflecting” he added “I feel compelled to look to a First Cause having an intelligent mind in some degree analogous to that of man…” But, he queried, can the human mind which developed from the lowest animal, be trusted when drawing “such grand conclusions?” Darwin remained agnostic till

death. On April 19, 1882, Darwin died at his home, Down House, in Kent. He expected to be buried in St Mary’s churchyard nearby but senior British science and Church of England figures insisted on a state funeral and Westminster Abby interment among the nation’s “illustrious dead”. Prior to Darwin’s (and other) naturalist publications post 1859, science and religion generally had a complementary relationship in Great Britain. This is well illustrated by Anglican bishop, Tom Frame, in his excellent treatise on Darwin’s impact on Australia. he states that for Anglicanism “science was important because it promised a better understanding of the divinely ordered system of nature upon which human society depended.” (Evolution in the Antipodes: Charles Darwin and Australia, 2009). Consequently, many clergy of that time also devoted themselves to scientific pursuits. In the years since his death, various discoveries and scientific findings such as genetics, the fossil record and DNA have provided a huge amount of additional evidence backing up Darwin’s findings. Consequently, his reputation has grown, and not declined with time as one might have expected. A century and a half later the religion - science debate has failed to rise to new heights of perception as has Darwinianism and Darwin, its chief hero. It continues to generate more heat than light. Between the theists and the scientists, a large ignorance chasm remains to be breached. Both sides of this debate should be searching for truth. This would place ghem on com-

CARTOONISTS of the 1800s had a field day with Darwin’s controversial theories. lem with evolution and its scien- pendent schools, however, would tific implications. They take endorse Intelligent Design (as Genesis as a book of theology, against Creationism) through not science. This does not Catholic schools do not adopt detract from what the Genesis this approach, arguing that account seeks to portray (see: Genesis is compatible with evotheory provided The Genesis Enigma by Andrew lutionary Scriptural theory is properly Parker, 2009). Within the scientific communi- understood. The Church claims that God is ty there is also a large reach of views ranging across the theistic- a “necessary” being. He is not atheistic spectrum. However, in “contingent” and His existence recent times, scientific atheists depends on no other being, have become much more aggres- process or situation. The Catholic Church is much sive and strident in opposing aware of the gulf that has develbelief in God. The more radical such as oped between science and reliIn March, 2009 the Richard Dawkins look forward gion. Vatican hosted a conference at the Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome, honoring Darwin with the title “Biological Evolution: Facts and Theories”. Using Darwin’s work as a bridge it endeavored to explore paths of compatibility between religion and science. It sought to advance in a small way Pope John Paul II’s earlier observation that “Science can purify religion from error and superstition. Religion can purify science from idolatry and false absolutes”. One attending scientist argued that evolutionary theory did not preclude the possibility that God intervenes in the day-to-day workings of the universe. Another spoke of God’s involvement in a continuous act DARWIN’S funeral at Westminster Abby on April 26, 1882, among of creation using a musical analBritain's "illustrious dead". ogy to illustrate his proposition: “Music is produced by both the patible paths; yet this does not to the time when “scientific musician and the instrument”, occur. Instead the gulf widens. enlightenment will deal an over- he said. “You can’t separate Within the Christian theist due death blow to religion and these things because you require camp resides a huge fundamen- other juvenile superstitions.” both to produce the music”. And talist flock. They hold to cre- (What are You Optimistic so likewise in the universe, he ationist beliefs based on literal About?, John Brockman ed., continued, “everything comes interpretations of biblical texts 2007). from God and everything comes that defy modern knowledge and In Australian schools the evo- from nature”. (The Tablet, 28 reason. lutionary question has not March, 2009) They disregard the biblical use become a divisive or fractious Clearly, for the human intelof allegory and metaphor. They issues. Serious study of evolu- lect, science and religion occupy ignore the science of hermeneu- tionary theory generally does not vastly different realms. They tics – the interpretation of lan- occur until the senior end of the serve different purposes. They guage and its written context. secondary school curriculum, in possess discrete methodologies. Such fundamentalism is found year 11 biology. One deals with the material uniacross the Christian world but is There appears to be no evi- verse, the other, the immaterial. particularly influencial in the dence that it then becomes a The former seeks truth by USA. There fundamentalists vehicle to import theism or athe- assessing facts, the other seeks fight for creationism to be taught istic materialism. Rather it is truth through understanding. in schools alongside evolution- treated matter-of-factly without And let us not forget the old ary biology. This battle has trying to justify any ideological aphorism: “The Bible teaches us become divisive. how to go to heaven; not how the position. Most mainstream Catholics Some of the Christian inde- heavens go.” and Protestants have little prob-

Catholic Life, June 2010 - Page 23

Hands on in the Heart Region

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VOCATIONS PRIESTS AND DEACONS Are you considering a vocation as a priest or deacon for the Diocese of Sale? If so please contact Diocesan Vocations Director Deacon Tony Aspinall 0414 468 692 vocations@sale.catholic.org.au

to help you discern God’s call

Bishop’s Family Foundation If you are making or updating your will, you may consider leaving a bequest to the Bishop’s Family Foundation. The Bishop’s Family Foundation has produced some easy-to-read booklets explaining bequests which may be an advantage to read before seeing your solicitor to prepare or update your will. Copies may be obtained by phoning Pat on 5144 4991 Do it today and sleep easy knowing you have done your part.

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Eyes down 11am. Ticket sales 10.30am Now 55 games at 20 cents per game.

Further details phone 5134 8484 or 5133 7221 (AH)

prayer THANK YOU St Jude. O Holy St Jude Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need. To you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg you to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen.

MORGAN shows us her artwork By Kelly Lucas CONFIRMATION candidates from across the cathedral parish in Sale came together last month for a day with the youth ministry class from Catholic College Sale. Nerves and excitement were high as everyone gathered at the Sion campus for a day of art, prayer, hands on activities and fun. The year ten youth ministry students prepared activities that focused on the Holy Spirit and the gifts and fruits the Holy Spirit gives us through Confirmation. Students, both young and old,

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enjoyed the beautiful surrounds of the Sion campus. The front garden was the perfect setting for the tree planting group as they explored God’s creation. The beautiful original chapel made the perfect space for prayer and meditation. Sacramental coordinator, Diane Ward, congratulated the year ten class on their leadership shown through the day. “The year ten students made us feel welcomed, included and really shared with us about Confirmation”, said Diane. The year six students also really enjoyed their day and loved working with the older students.

MacYAK could be for you DO you want to make a difference? Want to do something more with your life? Do you wonder what is out there? MacYAC could be for you! MacKillop Young Adult Community (MacYAC) is a network of young adults and Josephite Sisters centered at the MacYAC gathering place in Melbourne Avenue, Glenroy. It provides an opportunity for young adults to share life, prayer, reflection, vision and outreach to those in need. It is intended as a way of following in the spirit of Mary MacKillop in ordinary daily life. MacYAC is inviting young single adults (18-35) to attend one of two Retreat Weekends being offered this year. • Mary MacKillop – Inspired and Inspiring - experience the inspiration of a remarkable woman. Friday July, 9 to Sunday July 11 at Jan Juc. RSVP June 30. • Mary MacKillop – Towards Canonisation – become inspired through her journey to sainthood. Friday August 27 to Sunday August 29 at Rye. RSVP August 18. Cost for either weekend is $50 employed with a concession rate for students/unwaged. An e-copy of the brochure for the retreat weekends is available from macyac@sosj.org.au. Places are limited so apply early.

Page 24 - Catholic Life, June 2010

Friends group is helping East Timor community BAIRNSDALE The Bairnsdale Friends of East Timor have been supporting the Salesian School Community of Escola Secundaria Santo Antonio in Baucau, East Timor, since November 2003. To date, 20 volunteers have travelled to Baucau, where they have lived with the Salesian Community, taught English lessons and experienced some of the difficulties faced in East Timor. Several volunteers have made many visits, and have come to regard Baucau almost as a second home. Funds have been raised for healthy school lunches, school materials, and for assisting selected East Timorese students at university in Indonesia. Already, some graduates have returned to East Timor and have good employment, enabling them to support their families and provide good leadership in their communities. East Timor’s Fine Arts School – Arte Moris, in Baucau, has received help from BFOET with

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English lessons, and a generous consignment of art materials. A successful exhibition and sale of work was held in March in Box Hill. BFOET would like to introduce readers to one of their scholarship students. Nelson Guterres is one of five children from a poor farming family, who live in the hills near Baucau. Nelson’s uncle paid for his education at ESSA. During that time, he lived with several other students, in a small shed at ESSA, where they cooked and cleaned for themselves. Nelson is a good student. After graduating from ESSA, he was dux of the Electrical Course at Don Bosco Technical School in Dili. He secured one year’s work at the National University in Dili. Nelson saved as much of his salary as he could. Seeking higher qualifications, he studied English at Dili University for a year, and learnt some Korean too, “because it was free.” Last year, BFOET gave Nelson enough money to enrol in Electrical Engineering at university in Jogjakarta, Indonesia. This course is unavailable in East Timor. Now in his second year, Nelson works diligently and is consistently gaining good grades. He is thrifty and careful with his expenses, which amount to $2500 US per year. He is the first member of his family to have completed sec-

ENGLISH classes under way at a school supported by Bairnsdale Friends of East Timor. ondary school and to have sought a university qualification. Recently, Nelson emailed to say that his room had been burgled, and that all his lecture notes had been stolen. He began the task of re-writing his papers, and wrote that perhaps some less-successful student must have wanted his notes. Readers who may be interested in supporting the work of BFOET may find contact details at www.eastgippsland.com/foet/ index.htm, or through St Mary’s Parish, Bairnsdale.

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NELSON Guterres is now in the second year of his university studies in Indonesia.

Arts alive and well at St Vincent’s Catholic Life Sale

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MORWELL - St Vincent’s Primary School is the only school East of Melbourne in the last 10 years to win a grant through the State Government and Arts Victoria to promote Artists in Schools. Belinda Pringle from Arts Victoria made a special visit to the school to liaise with teachers and artist Ann Pulbrook, who applied for the grant in the hope of expanding the arts further within the school. Belinda also met with school principal Christine Elliott and playwright, producer and film maker Dan Clancy who has been invited to use his artistic talents to guide and assist students and teachers to develop skills towards a performance which will be held at the Kernot Hall site later in the year. Winning the Artist In Schools grant is tremendous for St Vincent’s. It shows a great deal

of faith by the State and Arts funding bodies. This is a dynamic opportunity for students to explore their ideas and talents through traditional mediums and newer technologies including cinematography. The Grade 5/6 students will be exploring identity and what it means in fast paced, technologically advanced societies such as Australia. The school is hoping to open up the arts even further for its students, their families, school staff and the local community. Kernot Hall boast features like the Japanese Bridge and the Migrant Wall which are ideal to assist in the exploration of the concept of identity in the digital age. The school hopes that the students’ performance will attract the rest of the community to a journey of self discovery.”