“We
are an Easter People and Alleluia is our song.”
ST. JOHN PAUL II
Kete Kōrero
A MAGAZINE OF THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF HAMILTON
BISHOP RICHARD LAURENSON
We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is our song. This line Pope St John Paul II dropped into his Angelus address in Adelaide, SA November 1986. He said to all who would listen:
Faith is our source of joy. We believe in a God who created us so that we might enjoy human happiness - in some measure on earth, in its fullness in heaven. We are meant to have our human joys: the joy of living, the joy of love and friendship, the joy of work well done. We who are Christians have a further cause for joy: like Jesus, we know that we are loved
by God our Father. This love transforms our lives and fills us with joy. It makes us see that Jesus did not come to lay burdens upon us. He came to teach us what it means to be fully happy and fully human. Therefore, we discover joy when we discover truththe truth about God our Father, the truth about Jesus our Saviour, the truth about the Holy Spirit who lives in our hearts.
We do not pretend that life is all beauty. We are aware of darkness and sin, of poverty and pain. But we know Jesus has conquered sin and passed through his own pain to the glory of the Resurrection. And we live in the light of his Paschal Mystery - the mystery of his Death and Resurrection. “We are an Easter People and Alleluia is our song!”. We are not looking for a shallow joy but rather a joy that comes from faith, that grows through unselfish love, that respects the “fundamental duty of love of neighbour, without which it would be unbecoming to speak of Joy”. We realise that joy is demanding; it demands unselfishness; it demands a readiness to say with Mary: “Be it done unto me according to thy word”.
It seems the pope is referring to St Augustine, giving a talk about Psalm 148. St Augustine said “let not your tongue and voice alone praise God, but your conscience also, your life, your deeds. For now, when we are gathered together in the Church, we praise: when we go forth each to our own business, we seem to cease to praise God. Let each of us not cease to live well, and then one always praises God [...for] God has willed that it should be in your choice for whom you will prepare room, for God, or for the devil: when you have prepared it, he who is occupant will also rule. Therefore, attend not only to the sound; when you praise God, praise with your whole selves: let your voice, your life, your deeds, all sing Alleluia”
We Catholics hold in tension the sadness of our sinful situations, both received and of our own making, alongside the joy that comes when we accept the Gospel of Christ and transform our lives. This transformation comes by God’s own Grace, manifest in the forgiving waters of Baptism. This is where Christians “are washed clean of sin, freed from all defilement, restored to grace, and grow together in Holiness”. What to do when we have sinned after baptism? A “second” baptism is possible; it is called Penance, or Confession or Reconciliation. Here the impossible is made possible. By His command the Lord Jesus has given to mere mortals the divine power to forgive sin (Jn 20:22) after the washing of Baptism, which as St Peter taught “now saves us”. (1Pt3.21)
It is the power of the Holy Night of Passover, the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus that “dispels all evil, washes
guilt away, restores lost innocence, brings mourners joy. Night Truly blessed, when heaven is wedded to earth, and we are reconciled to God”. It is this same power extending throughout the ages in the sacramental economy that allows us to enter into the Joy of the Father’s Kingdom, even if we are sad and sinful, angry and dejected, the Lord will make us one in him. This is our Story, this is our Song:
Alleluia!
Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his hosts.
Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all shining stars. Praise him, highest heavens, and the waters above the heavens.
Let them praise the name of the LORD. He commanded: they were created. He established them for ever and ever, gave a law which shall not pass away.
Praise the LORD from the earth; sea creatures and all ocean depths; fire and hail, snow and mist, stormy winds that fulfil his command; mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars; beasts, both wild and tame; reptiles and birds on the wing;
kings of the earth and all peoples; princes and all judges of the earth; young men together with maidens, the old and the young together.
Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted, his splendour above heaven and earth.
He exalts the strength of his people. He is the praise of all his faithful, the praise of the children of Israel, of the people to whom he is close. Alleluia! (Ps148)
BISHOP’S LETTER FROM THE OFFICE EDITOR’S NOTE HOLY CROSS SEMINARY HEAD STUDENT FEATURES FROM TE ARAWA TO TE RARAWA INDULGENCES IN THE YEAR OF JUBILEE 2025 GUIDED BY FAITH, CONNECTED IN PURPOSE CELEBRATING 75 YEARS FOR MISSION SISTER ST COLUMBA PARISH AND SCHOOL CENTENARY LOVE AS PRECIOUS AS PLATINUM PRO-LIFE YOUTH CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE COMMON GOOD FOUNDATION DO THIS IN MEMORY OF ME TITUS TIDBITS #FOLLOWFORMORE
Publisher: Catholic Diocese of Hamilton Editor: Kirsty Muir | kirstym@cdh.org.nz
Design & Photography: Taila Burton-Gollop
Proofreader: Patricia Parsons
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Online Kete articles: ketekorero.cdh.nz Phone: 07 856 6989
Postal: PO Box 4353, Hamilton East 3247 ISSN number: 2357-2221
Deadline for content: 4th July, 2025 @catholicdioceseofhamilton youtube.com/CatholicDioceseofHamiltonNZ
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
MONSIGNOR DAVID MICHAEL TIWHA
BENNETT: 1943 - 2025
Monsignor Bennett was farewelled with a Requiem Mass at the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary, before returning home to Rotorua for his final funeral Mass and interment at his family urupa - Kauae Cemetery. Ordained in 1968, he is described as having a priestly heart for those who flew under the radar, a dedicated member of our clergy, known for his compassion toward those on the margins. His work as Police Chaplain earned him the honorary police baton, his organisational skills saw him appointed to Vicar General and Prelate of the Papal Household for the Diocese. His sense of humour never left him, even as his health declined, where whānau; clergy; friends and caregivers returned the care he had bestowed on others. Rest in eternal peace Monsignor, ‘well done, good and faithful servant,’ you will always be remembered as a much loved priest for the Hamilton Diocese.
SIR PETER JOHN TRAPSKI: 1935 - 2025
Family man Peter Trapski, was called home to God in February this year. Sir Peter was made a Knight Commander, with star, in the Pontifical Equestrian Order of Pope Saint
Sylvester. He selflessly gave his time to the Hamilton Diocese, serving in multiple roles. Thank you for being a man of faith and service Peter, may you rest in peace.
DEVASTATING FIRE AT HUI TE RANGIORA MARAE
Hui Te Rangiora Marae was opened on behalf of Kuini Te Atairangikaahu by Mr Hepi Te Heuheu at Hamilton on 19 November, 1966. Its name, Hui Te Rangiora Marae was suggested by the Queen in memory of a very sacred pre-pakeha marae in the Waikato area. The building was blessed by His Lordship Bishop R. Delargey.
In the early hours of March 16th, 2025, firefighters were called to a blaze, which is being treated as arson. The interior of the meeting house on Clarence St, named Tū Waerae, was gutted by the fire, while the external carvings were smoke damaged but remained relatively intact. The committee organised a tangi to prepare the marae for burial. It had the tapu lifted and was blessed, Bishop Richard alongside Pa Gerard and Rae Morunga held a liturgy, of which around 30 members of Hui te Rangiora attended, they were joined by leaders from Maniapoto to farewell the marae.
Donations are currently being accepted for the restoration, repair and maintenance of Hui Te Rangiora. Head to htr.cdh.nz
FIRST IMAGE: MONSIGNOR DAVID BENNETT AT THE EPISCOPAL ORDINATION OF BISHOP RICHARD LAURENSON IN 2023. SECOND IMAGE: SUPPLIED.
COMMISSIONING MASSES
Held at St Mary Star of the Sea, Gisborne; Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Hamilton; and St Mary of the Cross, Rotorua; our students, educators and parishioners came together to bless the new Academic year. At our Masses, the opportunity was taken to congratulate those who have recently completed studies. In addition to certificates for introductory courses, we had five people receive their New Zealand Certificate in Christian Studies (Level 5) in Religious Education. The requirements involved the study of seven papers relating to Scripture, Theology, Spirituality, Special Catholic Character and teaching practice within a Catholic school. A particularly challenging task when undertaken whilst working full time - and in most cases, juggling family commitments too! Fadi Yalda is assigned to teach at Level 7 at Te Kupenga in the biblical studies field and he spends a few days each week running Level 5 and 6 biblical studies courses for teachers at Catholic schools in the Waikato region. Contact Fadi for more information f.yalda@ctc.ac.nz
EDITOR’S NOTE
In the centre of this magazine you will find a document on Indulgences, being in the centre you can pull it out and keep it. In the Bull of Indiction of the Ordinary Jubilee of the year 2025, Spes non Conundit, Pope Francis says, “Indeed, indulgence is a way of discovering the ultimate nature of God’s mercy. … as expressions of the fullness of God’s forgiveness, which knows no bounds.” In the opening of the Jubilee year for the Hamilton Diocese, Bishop Richard announced a publication to be sent to all parishes, explaining what an indulgence is and how to obtain one this Jubilee year. This offers an explanation of Indulgences and how we can access this great gift of mercy - both during the Jubilee year and for years to come. Most of our - from the office - articles on these pages can be found on our online communications platform, hail.to/catholicdiocese-of-hamilton where you can sign up to receive regular news. Lastly, don’t forget to set a reminder for the Second Sunday in Easter, where Carlo Acutis becomes our first millennial saint. Acutis’ canonisation Mass, which is to take place during the Jubilee of Teenagers, will take place on Sunday, April 27, at 10:00am local time in St. Peter’s Square.
Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory floods her, ablaze with light from her eternal King, let all corners of the earth be glad, knowing an end to gloom and darkness.
TOP: BISHOP RICHARD WITH STUDENTS FROM ST MARY’S PUTARURU, ALONG WITH EX-PUPIL AND CURRENT HEADBOY OF JOHN PAUL COLLEGE.
BOTTOM: FR MARK FIELD WITH RUBY TIEPA FROM CAMPION COLLEGE, WHO WAS PRESENTED WITH HER LEVEL 5 CERTIFICATE IN CHRISTIAN STUDIES.
PHOTO BY GINA LEAN.
THE EXSULTET
HOLY CROSS SEMINARY
Lord Jesus, Friend and Brother, the diocese of Hamilton needs more good and faithful priests. Increase Your grace in our young men that they may respond to your call to follow you more nearly. Open their hearts so that they may follow you as a priest of Hamilton Diocese. Amen.
From Gemelli Hospital, on the Solemnity of St. Joseph, Pope Francis shared his message for the 62nd World
Day of Prayer for Vocations - Pilgrims of Hope: the Gift of Life. He extends a joyful and encouraging invitation to become pilgrims of hope by generously offering our lives as a gift. “A vocation is a precious gift that God sows in our heart, a call to leave ourselves behind and embark on a journey of love and service. Every vocation in the Church, whether lay, ordained or consecrated, is a sign of the hope that God has for this world and for each of His children.” To the young people, he acknowledged the conflicting world we live in, he urged them to take the time to listen to God’s voice in prayer, even under the bombardment of extremely busy life schedules and external pressures. He encouraged
them to look to the young saints and blesseds, who joyfully responded to the Lord’s call, for inspiration.
Pope Francis urges us all to make every effort to foster vocations, and the message is loud and clear to allow young people the adequate spiritual space to do so. We must offer nurturing and loving environments within our communities where individuals feel encouraged to explore their calling. A vocation is not one to be stored away in one’s own heart, but strengthened in the community of those who believe, love and hope. We all need to be surrounded by the prayers and support of our brothers and sisters and let us never lose hope or tire of asking the Lord for new labourers for His harvest.
KIRSTY MUIR
“The discovery of our vocation comes about as the result of a journey of discernment. That journey is never solitary, but develops within a Christian community and as a part of that community.” ~ Pope Francis.
This nurturing support of our own communities has certainly seen an increase in first year seminarians at Holy Cross Seminary - 14 men have started their first year of formal studies this year. Three of these are from the Hamilton Diocese, and with Nhat entering his second year, we are blessed to have four in the Seminary, as they continue to discern their call to the priesthood. We first introduced Nhat and Hung in the Spring 2023
Kete Kōrero; as they were studying English at Waikato University; after trusting in God’s providence, leaving behind their families in Vietnam to join us in the Hamilton Diocese. Nhat has now completed his first year in the seminary and Hung has entered this year. We also have two other men who have answered the call to enter the seminary this year, Jack Fraser-Jones and Samuel Turnbull.
Good Shepherd Sunday or Vocations Sunday, this year falls on May 11 and is marked world wide as a Day of Prayer for Vocations. “The Harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.” Luke 10:2. We are all called to a vocation, whether religious, marriage or single life, however specifically on Good Shepherd Sunday, the Church in New Zealand concentrates her attention on raising up shepherds for God’s people. This means the focus is on vocations to Holy Orders (the priesthood and diaconate) and to religious life. We encourage all who are discerning their vocation to pray more earnestly that they may hear and respond to God’s call.
It is during this period that we run our annual Seminary Appeal and we humbly ask for your support in both prayer and monetary donations. Seminarians are supported by their individual diocese, so your kind donations support them in their studies covering their accommodation and meals, books, internet access, insurances and tertiary study fees. We can also continue to contribute our share to the upkeep, maintenance and staffing costs of Holy Cross Seminary. Your donation can also make an immense difference to any future vocations of priesthood from our diocese, helping young men on their spiritual journey of formation. We now have a dedicated vocations team which will also allow us to run vocation retreats and seminars.
We invite you to incorporate the diocesean prayer for vocations, prepared by Bishop Richard, into your family prayer routine.
At the start of the year, the seminarians made a Hikoi to the Bay of Plenty. On their last day, they celebrated Mass at St Thomas More in Mount Maunganui; it certainly filled the parishioners there with hope, seeing so many men on their journey. At morning tea they had a chance for a kōrerorero and waiata, the key message shared by every single seminarian was asking the community to keep them in prayer.
NHAT LONG CAO - SECOND YEAR SEMINARIAN
I hope this message finds you all well. As I reflect on my journey at the seminary, I wanted to share some thoughts about my experiences during my first year, as I head into my second.
In my first year, I had the opportunity to lay a strong foundation in both my intellectual and spiritual formation. The year was marked by numerous challenges and growth in understanding the core elements of my vocation. I found the community life particularly enriching, as it allowed me to grow in both humility and collaboration with my fellow seminarians.
As I entered my second year, I felt a deeper sense of responsibility in my formation. The lessons and experiences of the previous year have allowed me to engage more fully with my studies, especially in areas such as theology and pastoral care. I am also finding more clarity in discerning my path forward, especially with the ongoing support and guidance of our formators.
LEFT: SEMINARIANS OF THE HAMILTON CATHOLIC DIOCESE (L-R): NHAT LONG CAO, JACK FRASER-JONES, HA VAN HUNG (HUNG), SAMUEL TURNBULL.
Both years have been a mixture of challenges and graces, but I am grateful for the many opportunities for growth. I continue to be inspired by the commitment of my brothers and the nurturing environment of the seminary. I look forward to the next stages of my formation and the ways in which God will continue to guide me.
I kindly ask for the prayers of all the people, as I continue on this path of formation. May their prayers support me in my journey, helping me to grow in wisdom, grace, and discernment.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
JACK FRASER-JONES - FIRST YEAR SEMINARIAN
Hi everyone, I’m Jack Fraser-Jones, a first-year seminarian from the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary. I was born and bred in Hamilton and have three younger siblings. My confirmation saint is St Edward the Confessor.
Growing up, God and church were always constant in my life. There has been exposure in my life to priests and my uncle is Fr Danny Fraser-Jones. As I grew up, I made my faith my own and started discerning my vocation.
I have been altar serving in various ways since the end of 2019, and in 2023 was one of two Special Character Leaders at St John’s College. I have been involved in the young adult group in Hamilton, and after going to Life Teen as a teen in 2023, I was able to return last year as a leader for some of the year.
I would say there has been no single influence on my vocation, rather it has been a gradual accumulation that has led me to this point. Your prayers and support are very much appreciated.
HA VAN HUNG (HUNG) - FIRST YEAR SEMINARIAN
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor” (Luke 4:16-30). It was a wonderful melody that I picked up during my time studying in Tauranga. I thought I had experienced enough of New Zealand’s culture when I finished a year in Hamilton city, but I felt so small when I moved to Tauranga. Starting with friends and teachers at school, who gave me the nickname “Have a sense of humor,” I had many fun experiences that deepened my understanding of the people and culture of New Zealand. Moreover, living in the presbytery allowed me to unite with God through my prayer life. I visited Matakana Island every month by boat with Fr. Adam, and also went to Omokoroa and Te Puna Church. I also volunteered for charity work at Saint Vincent de Paul every week. Therefore, Tauranga has become a peaceful and beautiful part of my life.
Seminary is a wonderful opportunity to explore one’s calling and to perfect oneself, as a poet once mentioned. Indeed, turning a new page, as a new seminarian of Hamilton Diocese, especially New Zealand church in general I consider myself very fortunate to be studying in such a wonderful environment. With daily Eucharistic Adoration, Mass and class sessions, as well as weekly pastoral work, all created a peaceful atmosphere that I experienced. However, there are still many challenges
and obstacles ahead. Please continue to pray for me in my vocation.
SAMUEL TURNBULL - FIRST YEAR SEMINARIAN
My name is Samuel, son of Noeline Ballantyne and Richard Turnbull. I was raised in Hamilton, and belong to Melville parish. I am confirmed in the name of St. Francis of Assisi. I regularly served for Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, and occasionally have served for Mass. I have been active in groups such as Lifeteen Hamilton and our Young Adults.
I was asked to mention anything that stood out from my upbringing in regards to the faith. The most notable thing is how little interest I had in the faith. In fact, the idea of being a priest couldn’t have been further from my mind.
However, there have been plenty of people and factors that have influenced my discernment. Being exposed to the edifying example of various priests in the Hamilton Diocese and the desire to be an instrument of Christ in sanctifying others through the administration of the Sacraments.
The first weeks of seminary have been challenging, but enjoyable. I would like to say I have acclimatised to rising at 6am daily, but sadly this is not the case. So far, I am most appreciative of the ample opportunities for prayer and reflection -especially in front of the Blessed Sacrament - which the seminary schedule affords us. On that note, please pray for us as we continue to discern God’s call in our lives.
Prayer of the Faithful written by Bishop Richard, which keeps us united in our intercessory prayers:
We pray for the young men in our own families. May they respond to your call to follow you more nearly as a Priest of Hamilton Diocese. Lord Hear Us.
HEAD STUDENT FEATURES
AQUINAS COLLEGE, TAURANGA
HEAD GIRL - MONIQUE FAIRE
What does “hope does not disappoint” mean to you and how will you share this message during the year?
“Hope does not disappoint” is a great way to motivate perseverance in tough times, even when it feels like you’ve “gotten your hopes up” only to be let down. Knowing that hope (in something better for the world, or even for ourselves) can never be misplaced if our hope is based in an understanding of God’s love. If we believe that there is better to come, then we can believe in ourselves. As a student leader at Aquinas, I will especially encourage our student executive to share this message by creating a supportive environment at our school, showing love and understanding to those who feel like their hope has let them down.
What is your vision as a leader for 2025?
I want all Aquinas students to feel encouraged to find their place at Aquinas, encouraging students to get involved in as many opportunities as they can. As a leader at Aquinas, I hope I can help foster a sense of family (our touchstone this year) and belonging, so that students can feel welcome at our College.
HEAD BOY - LUKA MAHY
Hello I am Luka Mahy, the head boy for Aquinas College in Tauranga, belonging to the parish of St Thomas Aquinas.
What is your vision as a leader for 2025?
My vision is to foster a culture of whanaungatanga, being a strong relationship that connects students across all year levels. By strengthening bonds between seniors and juniors through mentoring, sports, and academic initiatives, we can build a school environment where every student feels valued, included, and empowered to succeed.
What is the one thing you want others to know about your school?
Because of our size and culture, I see Aquinas as less of a school and more of a family. Like our country, we may be small, but we achieve great things because we support and uplift one another. Our school touchstones of service, prayer, and scholarship, to name a few, guide us, shaping a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
What would you say to your Year 7 self?
If I was to speak to my Year 7 self, I would remind him of kaitiakitanga or guardianship, being the responsibility to care for others. The people you look up to now will shape who you become, but one day, you’ll be that person for someone else. So embrace every moment, be kind, and lead by example—because the small things you do today will have a lasting impact on others.
CAMPION COLLEGE, GISBORNE HEAD BOY - TAYE MCGUINNESS
“Kia ora,
My name is Taye McGuinness, and I am from Campion College, which is part of the St Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Parish. I have been fortunate to attend Campion College since Year 7, and this year, I have the honour of serving as Head Boy for 2025. My vision for 2025 as a leader is for all students to take great pride in being part of Campion and for our school to grow into an even stronger family than it is now. To achieve this, I will strive to uphold our school’s three core values—Commitment, Compassion, and Community—in everything I do as a leader. Faith, to me, is about trust in God and knowing that even when things don’t seem to be going well, God is always there to support me.”
HEAD GIRL - LIEN RUELENS
Kia ora, my name is Lien Ruelens, and I come from Campion College, which is part of the Saint Mary Star of the Sea Parish. I am honoured to serve as Campion College’s Head Girl for 2025.
A little about me: I have been at Campion since Year 7, having moved to New Zealand from Belgium in 2018. Throughout my schooling, I have worked hard to make a positive impact in the community and support those around me. I have been actively involved in Caritas, Young Vinnies, and the Girls’ Breakfast Prayer Group. I also play hockey and coach Year 5-6 netball. My vision for 2025 as a leader is to see greater student involvement in the wider community. I would love for us to give back through volunteering, charity drives, and other acts of service. A scripture that resonates with me is Mark 9:35: “Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’”
This verse will guide me in servant leadership throughout the year, helping me lead from the ground up. To be last and a servant is to lead by example—to be part of the action. Being a servant leader means putting others before yourself, and I hope to model this throughout the year as Head Girl.”
ST JOHN’S COLLEGE, HAMILTON HEAD BOY - ARDEN MORUNGA
Kia whai kōroria te Atua i runga rawa
Kia mau te rongo ki runga ki te whenua
Me te whakaaro pai ki ngā tāngata katoa
Ko Arden Morunga ahau. Nō Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, Ngāti
Hamoa hoki. He mihi atu rā.
What is the one thing you want others to know about your school?
I want others to understand that at St. John’s College, it’s the brotherhood that truly makes all the difference. I am both proud and privileged to be a part of this exceptional community. We embrace the responsibility of being brothers, always looking out for one another. This belief has shaped who I am, instilling in me the core values of faith, integrity, service, and a deep commitment to personal growth and empowering others to succeed.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE, ROTORUA HEAD GIRL - GENEVIEVE FARRELL
Hi, my name is Genevieve Farrell and I am privileged to hold the position of 2025 Head Girl at John Paul College. I live on a dairy farm with my four sisters and my parents. I have been raised in a practising Catholic family whom I love spending time with. Growing up I have always looked forward to spending time with my many cousins. One of my favourite pastimes is making connections with new people. If I’m feeling energetic I also like to go on tramps or walks with friends, or playing a little bit of ultimate frisbee with my friends. However, if I’m needing a little more time to myself I like to read detective novels. I have been at John Paul College since year nine and thoroughly enjoy everything our school has to offer. I am really looking forward to my last year of high school and what it may hold.
HEAD BOY - CRUIX HAUMAHA
Tēnā tātou e te whanau
Ko Cruix tēnei, he uri nō Ngāti Raukawa ki te kaokaoroa o te patetere, Me mihi tuatahi ki te atua ko ia te timatanga me te whakamutunga o ngā mea katoa, me mihi tuarua ki te hāhi katorika, na reira tēnā tātou.
Kia Ora mai tātou My name is Cruix Te Iharaira Joseph Haumaha I am a descendant of Ngāti Raukawa ki te kaokaoroa o te patetere, I am the grandson of the first Māori permanent deacon, Joseph Haumaha, and I am honoured to have been chosen as Head Boy of Te Kāreti o Hoani Pāora for 2025. My goal is not only to lead but to support my peers with the values that have been instilled in me since childhood: respect, pride, and most importantly, humility. 1 Corinthians 13:13 “Na, e noho nei inaianei te whakapono, te tūmanako, te aroha, ēnei e toru; ko te mea nui rawa ia o enei ko te aroha.” “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
Tihei Mauri Ora, Cruix Haumaha.
SACRED HEART GIRLS COLLEGE, HAMILTON HEAD GIRL - ORACLE-ROSE HAENGA-ASHBY
“Ēhara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini”
Ko Hikurangi te maunga.
Ko Waiapu te awa.
Ko Horouta te waka.
Ko Ngati Porou te iwi.
Nō Tikitiki ahau.
Ko Oracle-Rose Tuhe Haenga-Ashby tōku ingoa.
Tēnā koutou katoa.
I hail from the largest Northern Waikato city mecca metropolis, Huntly. I stem from humble backgrounds and grew up without religion. It was during my years at Sacred Heart that I was introduced to Catholicism, as well as other faiths too. These experiences, along with scripture and lessons, laid the foundation for my
spiritual journey. To me, faith is the belief in something wholeheartedly, even in the absence of complete understanding or knowledge.
My role, as one of the many Head Students out there, is to lead with purpose, guide with integrity, and represent my kura with pride. Leadership isn’t just about holding a title - it’s about inspiring others, breaking boundaries, and setting a positive example.
As a proud servant leader, my vision for 2025 is to inspire, empower, and motivate my sisters to see beyond their time at Sacred Heart, preparing them for a future filled with purpose and confidence. Leadership is inherent in all people, and the first person one leads is oneself. Through my service, I hope to cultivate the leadership already present in my peers, shaping it into something benevolent, authentic, and groundbreaking. I aim to foster an environment where my fellow students are encouraged to “Go and Seek,” to take positive risks, and to create opportunities for themselves. This will allow them to realize their full potential, not just as students, but as individuals who can make a meaningful and positive impact on the world.
There is one quote, though not from the Bible, which has stuck with me for all these years from New Zealand Cross Recipient, Henry William Northcroft:
“Try to do some little good in your day and generation, and leave the world a little better rather than a little worse, for your individual unit of existence”
In this Jubilee Year of Hope and this time of renewal, I implore my sisters, my brothers, and whomever may be reading this to reflect on the quote above and follow the deeper meaning of Sacred Heart’s school motto, Age Quod Agis, which means, “Pay Attention”. These days hold many distractions and temptations. I encourage you to focus. Focus on what is ahead: Your morals, your faith, your life. Do some little good. Be change-makers, industry shapers, and risk takers. We are the future.
Pay attention.
Age Quod Agis.
FROM TE ARAWA TO TE RARAWA:
DEACON BEN POMARE HEADS HOME TO STRENGTHEN FAITH
Deacon Ben and Maria Pomare were given a well deserved send-off from Rotorua in March, as they prepared to head back to their roots in Motuti. Mass at St Michael’s, followed by lots of laughs, a few tears, and enough kai to feed an army!
Ben has been active in our diocese for many years and was ordained to the diaconate in 2017 at St Mary’s Rotorua, Hamilton Diocese.
Whatitiri Te Waka recently shared an article on Deacon Ben returning home to strengthen the faith and has kindly shared it with us along with edits for translations.
THIS ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED BY TE AO MĀORI NEWS AND IS REPUBLISHED HERE WITH PERMISSION.
Recent statistics reveal a steady decline in parishioners within the Catholic Church in
Aotearoa, but Deacon Ben Pomare is eager to take action and restore the Catholic values passed down by his tūpuna in Panguru.
At Motuti Marae, close to St Mary’s church where the remains of Bishop Pompallier are interred, Deacon Pomare was welcomed by locals. Eager for his new role of supporting local faith leaders of the district.
“Taku mahi i konei ki te awhi i ngā katekita me ngā Pirihi, koina taku mahi i konei”
“My work here is to support the catechists and priests, that’s my main job here”
Fully aware of the challenges ahead, he is determined to address the growing issue of dwindling church attendance. He points out that fewer whānau are attending church, and he hopes to reverse this trend.
“I ngā whare karakia o te rohe nei e mimiti haere ana ngā iwi ki roto i ngā whare karakia. Te aha ai? Ka hoki aku whakaaro ki te wā i tīmata ai ngā Kōhanga Reo, ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori, ko haere ngā tamariki ki tērā taha”.
“There is a decline in people attending churches of this district. Why? my thoughts go back to the
Called to Serve
establishment of Kōhanga Reo, Kura Kaupapa Māori, that’s where we’re losing our young ones too” he said.
Between 2006 and 2018, the number of Māori identifying as having “no religion” increased from 36.5% to 53.5%.
Meanwhile, Māori affiliation with Christianity has dropped from 46.2% to 29.9%.
Whilst excited to return home, he acknowledged the people of Rotorua. He lived there for 29 years helping out the parishes of the district.
“I te wā i noho au i waenganui ia rātou, nā rātou i tiaki i ahau, nā rātou i tiaki i taku wairua.
Nā te mea, te nuinga o te wā ka noho (ki reira) ko ahau anake i roto i ngā iwi o Te Arawa”
“Engari he ara hou tēnei mo māua me taku hoa wahine” ko tana kī.
“I lived among them, they looked after me and my spirit. Because for a majority of the time, we were the only ones from my family staying in Rotorua” he said.
“But this is now a new journey for my wife and I” he said.
BY WHATITIRI TE WAKE OF TE AO MĀORI NEWS.
GUIDED BY FAITH, CONNECTED IN PURPOSE:
OUR LIVING MISSION WITH THE SUNFLOWER SCHOOLS IN UGANDA
At St Joseph’s Catholic School Morrinsville, our faith calls us to serve, connect, and make a difference. Our partnership with the Sunflower Schools in Uganda is a beautiful example of our school living out its mission— guided by faith and connected in purpose. This special connection allows our students to experience the power of global solidarity, understanding that their actions can bring real change to the lives of others.
Our journey with the Sunflower Schools began in 1998 when Rev. Father Maurice Kigoye visited our
parish in Morrinsville, forming a lasting bond with teacher Pauline MacLoud. In 2024, Pauline, and her husband Bill, visited Uganda, where she taught for four weeks, bringing reading materials and sports uniforms donated by St Joseph’s. In 2016, the Sunflower Schools Project was formally established to promote literacy in six primary schools in the Kayunga District. Since then, our connection has flourished, with the MacLoud family making annual
visits and our school community continuing to offer support through resources, fundraising, and communication.
Today, this partnership remains strong and ever-growing. Regular Zoom calls between staff and students allow us to share, learn, and build friendships beyond borders. We exchange photos and resources, deepening our understanding of each other’s lives and cultures. Last year, half of the funds raised on our Mission Day were dedicated to the Sunflower Schools, enabling the purchase of one tablet for each of the five schools and a TV screen for another. In addition, we provided tomato seeds and
JEMMA VAN EIJK
watering equipment for all six schools, supporting an initiative that not only teaches students agricultural skills but also provides them with fresh food. In a beautiful act of solidarity, our own students have also begun growing tomatoes, mirroring the efforts in Uganda.
Our commitment extends beyond financial aid. Over the years, we have provided uniforms, reading materials, and religious education resources. Last year, our connection deepened further, with our Director of Religious Studies, Jemma Van Eijk—herself a former student of Pauline—helping to drive the project forward. A highlight was the visit from Ugandan officials to our school, a moment that strengthened our shared mission and reaffirmed our dedication to this partnership.
This coming April, Pauline and Bill will return to Uganda, bringing more resources from St Joseph’s. Our students have contributed in meaningful ways, creating books filled with stories and artwork to send to their Ugandan peers, reinforcing the message that distance does not diminish our shared humanity.
This partnership is a living testament to our Catholic special character. It reminds us of our duty to serve, to give generously, and to recognise the blessings in our own lives. Through this connection, our students see firsthand the impact of their actions, developing a deeper understanding of faith in action and the power of compassion.
As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening this bond, walking alongside our brothers and sisters in Uganda with open hearts and a shared purpose. We are St Joseph’s Catholic School Morrinsville—guided by faith, connected in purpose.
Footnote: The students of St Joseph’s have since had a fundraising day to bring in books and coloured pencils for the Sunflower Schools. The support we received from our families was amazing. The students and Staff of Ākonga have also been busy creating resources that will be sent over as well. We have written stories and poems, created art and games. along with resources for the teachers on reading and writing.
CELEBRATING 75 YEARS FOR THIS MISSION SISTER BACK WHERE IT STARTED:
Sr Phillipa Reed shares her reflection on her 75 years as
ISr Phillipa Reed shares her reflection on her 75 years as a mission sister.
t was a very special occasion, a jubilee not celebrated very often, for obvious reasons, with a rather dream-like
with
quality about it. To me the location of the celebration was particularly precious - the chapel was the place where it all started, from the schooldays when I sat in this same chapel (Sacred Heart side, lower side stall, third seat from front) saying to myself, “No I couldn’t - I’d die - I couldn’t live without Mum and Dad and the kids and our farm...” until “Well, if You really want me to!”
The chapel is the only building left of what was once our Provincial ‘Mother-house,’ seemingly built to last for generations. Still unchanged in appearance in spite of the massive work done in recent years that strengthened its fabric, the chapel is alive with memories that seem to have become closer and more vivid in my old age. Many of the key points of my religious life were centred in the chapel in the years of my learning and growing spiritually.
In 1947 we were a class of eleven postulants who entered our novitiate in Christchurch (and stayed), now only two of us are alive. In 1948 we were joined by a group of ten new postulants who became our great friends, only one survives. In 1949 there were a dozen or more new entrants,
and two are still here. On 6 January 1950, the feast of the Epiphany, our group made our first vows and moved to Hamilton to work as young professed Sisters based around our Hamilton Mother-house. The chapel is full of memories of those early days and of the many Sisters older and younger than ourselves who shared our lives and became great friends.
Sometimes I find it hard to realise that some of my oldest and dearest friends never met the Sisters who are my dearest friends now. To me, they are still so real - I can see their faces, their mannerisms, I know their opinions, their likes and dislikes, their hopes and plans; to younger generations they are only names from history, sometimes revered names but not living personalities. It’s the same with family: I remember and love relatives the younger
see their faces, their mannerisms, I know their opinions, revered names but not living personalities. It’s the same
generations only know by hearsay. Even so, lovely nieces and nephews came too, to share our jubilee day. Some are now grandparents themselves - I remember when they were born.
On 6 January this year, the exact day completing year 75, we started the jubilee with mass in the chapel celebrated by Monsignors Trevor Murray and Frank Eggleton. Afterwards, we had an informal lunch together in the Sisters’ Unit C next door, and spent the rest of the afternoon in the house and garden, just enjoying each other’s company, a small group of Sisters, family and friends from the parish.
Of all the jubilee I can only say with all my heart, “Thank you, everyone, for making this such a happy jubilee,”
and....
“Thank You dear Lord, for all the blessings of these many years. Please bless everyone involved, those who were present and those who couldn’t be, and bring them all closer to You every day of their lives.”
RIGHT: MONS. TREVOR HOLDS UP A STYLISED CROSS TO SHOW THE CONGREGATION AN EXAMPLE OF HOW CREATIVE AND ARTISTIC SR PHILIPPA IS. FROM SCRATCH SHE HAD MADE AN ENLARGED VERSION OF THE CONGREGATION EMBLEM, WITH THE INITIALS RNDM (RELIGIEUSES DE NOTRE DAME DES MISSIONS) ON IT. IT FORMED PART OF THE DECORATION IN FRONT OF THE ALTAR.
BELOW: SISTERS GROUP: BACK ROW L - R, GERALDINE DONOVAN (AUCK), DOROTHY DICKSON (OPOTIKI), ANNE SKLENARS, MURIEL KIVELL, RAEWYN HOGAN; FRONT ROW L-R LEONE MCINDOE (AUCK), ANNMARIE JONES, MARY
ELIZABETH MOLLOY (AUCK), M.PHILIPPA REED, MARY ELLEN O’SULLIVAN, MARY
MARTHA SCHIMANSKI (NEW PLYMOUTH)
100 YEARS
ST COLUMBA PARISH AND SCHOOL CENTENARY
The celebration of 100 years since the establishment of Frankton’s St Columba Parish and School took place over the weekend of 28th February to 2nd March. The festivities commenced on the Friday evening with a welcome from the Principal, Gareth Duncan, and Parish Priest, Fr Stuart Young, followed by a Mix and Mingle held at Te Manawa, St Columba’s School Hall.
MIKE CONROY
There was a great atmosphere with many reconnections made and stories told as people gathered from far and
wide. Among the number were several RNDM Sisters who had taught at the school many years ago and had been invited as special guests. The first of two Centenary Cakes was cut by 93-year-old Marie Conroy (née Thompson)
accompanied by her son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren, who have all followed in her footsteps as parishioners and students of the school.
Saturday morning commenced with Mass offered up for deceased parishioners and pupils.
The Mass was concelebrated by Emeritus Bishop Paul Donoghue SM who was ordained to the priesthood at St Columba Church. After refreshments in the parish lounge, the day’s activities at the school got underway. Months of preparation was on show with student-led tours and presentations featuring throughout the morning. Once again it was an opportunity for people to have a good look around both the school and parish precinct, including the recently renovated presbytery, and to meet up with
DIGNITARIES WHO ATTENDED THE SATURDAY EVENING EVENT. L - R: MAYOR PAULA SOUTHGATE, PRINCIPAL GARETH DUNCAN, FORMER SCHOOL BOT CHAIRMAN AND LONG-STANDING PARISHIONER MIKE CONROY, MP MARTIN GALLAGHER, AND BISHOP RICHARD LAURENSON.
old friends. Time was set aside around lunchtime for photographs to be taken to mark the occasion.
The Centenary Dinner was held at Hamilton’s K’aute Pasifika Fale on Saturday evening and was attended by around 230 people, including Bishop Richard Laurenson, Mayor Paula Southgate, former MP and City Councillor Martin Gallagher, along with a number of other invited guests. The second Centenary Cake was cut by members of the Burgess family, longtime parish and school identities. After a sumptuous dinner catered by parishioner Teuila Maggof and her team, great music was provided by the Three Brothers Band, and many took the opportunity to dance the night away. It was a very successful and memorable evening.
As a fitting conclusion to the weekend’s festivities, the St Columba Centenary Mass was celebrated by Bishop Richard, followed by refreshments afterwards at Te Manawa before we all dispersed and went our separate ways. The particular spirit that has been part of the St Columba’s community throughout its existence, had been to the fore the whole weekend, with many wonderful memories shared and new ones created.
A magazine team is busy finalising a booklet to commemorate the first 100 years of the parish and school. It is hoped this will go to print within the next few weeks and it will provide a lasting memento of this great occasion.
SINCE 1975, FORMER BOT CHAIRMAN), WILMA CONROY (PARISHIONER SINCE 1960 AND PUPIL 1962 TO 1970) CHRISTINA
(PUPIL 1995 TO 2003), RICHARD CONROY (PUPIL 1988 TO 1996)
MIDDLE ROW: MARIE CONROY (LIFETIME PARISHIONER, PUPIL 1937 TO 1944), KINGSTON LEE, SIERRA CONROY, HARPER CONROY - PRESENT-DAY PUPILS
FRONT ROW: AUSTIN CONROY - PRESENT-DAY PUPIL
BURGESS FAMILY, L - R: MARY PARKER, MAY WATERS, TUI CORNES AND KEVIN BURGESS. THEY ARE ONE OF THE OLDEST FAMILIES FROM THE SCHOOL AND PARISH.
CURRENT PARISH PRIEST, FATHER STUART YOUNG AND ST COLUMBA’S CURRENT PRINCIPAL, GARETH DUNCAN
FOUR GENERATIONS OF THE CONROY FAMILY: BACK ROW: MIKE CONROY (PARISHIONER
LEE
LOVE AS PRECIOUS AS PLATINUM
Recently a couple who have spent their 70 years together between the Palmerston North and Hamilton Dioceses, celebrated their platinum wedding anniversary.
DENISE POWELL: LONG STANDING MEMBER AND CURRENT DIOCESAN TREASURER OF THE CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE.
John and Doreen Buckley were married at St Brigid’s Catholic Church in Pahiatua by Father BJ Carruthers on
22nd January 1955 and celebrated 70 years of marriage with a Mass at St Brigid’s Catholic Church in Feilding, officiated by Father Vince Jones who has been a close friend for over 30 years. During the Mass they received the Papal Blessing, recognising their milestone. Over a hundred guests came to Mass and enjoyed a luncheon for the occasion.
They currently reside in Feilding, after moving there from Te Awamutu in 2020, and belong to St Brigid’s parish there. They still live in their own home and manage exceedingly well with a fortnightly visit from a home help agency.
John 91, who is number five of 18 children; and Doreen 88, the eldest of four children, have shared many grand moments in their lives and certainly experienced more than their share of grief. They had six children - four daughters and two sons, losing Jacinta Schicker in 1992 and Robert Buckley in 2014. Both sudden deaths. They have 17 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren, of whom many
with the grandchildren and great grandchildren - many have attended or still attend a Catholic Primary School and a Catholic Secondary School.
Faith and family has been the backbone of their marriage, and they are the perfect role models for their family and others to look up to. Sunday Mass was a weekly event, no excuses and when all their children left home, they switched to Saturday evening Masses. But alas, they only have one daughter and one grand-daughter, plus a few great grandchildren continuing to practise the faith. John always says the Rosary every morning. Doreen keeps prayers by her bed to say each night.
John never belonged to any sports clubs or groups, he was always too busy running his transport or farming businesses. But Doreen belonged to CWL, taking on the Secretary and President roles at different times, as well as ‘Garden Groups’ and ‘Rural Women.’ Doreen is a keen follower of anything Heritage and has been researching her Family Tree with the help of her daughters.
attended the celebration, along with surviving children Denise Powell, Jane Fitzgerald, Patricia Barnes and John Buckley Junior and two members of their bridal party.
All their children attended Catholic Primary Schools and most of them attended Catholic Secondary Schools, even having to board. Likewise
The longest time they have been apart was for three weeks in November when John was in hospital. He had only been discharged for two hours following a hip operation before he suffered a series of strokes. That was very hard on Mum when he got the last rites. He said to the priest, “What are you doing here? There’s no room for me upstairs, I’m not pulling out yet.”
Doreen and John have complemented each other perfectly like two halves of a perfect whole. They have worked side by side in various businesses, from transport to farming to a tearooms and takeaway and back to farming and finally transport again, neither one being the boss and never an argument heard. They say there is no secret to their long and happy marriage, but common sense and discussing everything is the advice they would give anyone asking.
Pro-Life Youth
EPHREM COX
We gather together regularly, as do many groups through New Zealand and online, to learn, share and support each other in the mahi of speaking up for the most defenseless members of our society.
So, if you’re a young person who wants to be better equipped to speak with truth and clarity about the biggest social justice issue of our generation then we’d love to have you join the Voice For Life Youth movement!
7pm at St Patrick’s Church Lounge, 625 Alexander Street, Te Awamutu.
9 May 10 June
Text Ephrem, 020 4089 4407, for any further details, otherwise check the dates and show up! www.voiceforlife.org.nz/youth
CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE
Combined Churches is a group in Matamata which is made up of ladies from the Anglican, Presbyterian and Union churches as well as our Holy Angels Catholic Church. At the most recent gathering, hosted by the Catholic Women’s League (CWL), the guest speaker was Kristen Curragh who shared her experience of a recent visit to the Children of the Forest Foundation in Thailand.
CLARE GALLAGHER
The Combined Churches group gathers once every three months, it
has proved most successful in providing an opportunity for fellowship and support. It was the CWL’s turn to host the last event, so they asked Matamata College Alumni Kristen to share her experience on visiting the Foundation that the CWL in Matamata have financially supported for at least five years.
The foundation is situated at the volatile border of Thailand and Myanmar and the project manager just so happens to be Kristen’s brother Mark Curragh, also originally from Matamata. It provides protection to women and children displaced by the war in the region. Kristen shared information around its two main programmes - the medical clinic and the schools programme.
A truck from the foundation brings sick and needy people to the medical clinic each day, and through doing this it saves 40 lives a year. The clinic is run by Mark’s wife, who faces all manner of medical and other challenges on a daily basis.
The school programme, which has been running for 20 years, started with 150 children, and now has 400 pupils from preschool to teens. They have the opportunity to learn Thai as well as English, enabling a university education which means they can go from being classified as a “stateless” person to a Thai citizen. This makes them eligible for what is considered the ultimate - a Thai ID card. Since it began, 7000 children have passed through the classrooms. This programme most interested Kristen who is a teacher herself, and she was able to pass on her own expertise to assist.
The foundation also runs an outreach programme, with trucks going out into the wider community each morning to visit families in need and those with disabilities, providing food and medical care. The trucks have been donated through the generosity of the main sponsor Pandora. The Pandora owner lives in Thailand and became aware of the foundation’s great work.
Kristen, and the photos she shared, demonstrate the happiness and resilience of mothers and children despite the trauma they have experienced.
DO THIS IN MEMORY OF ME
Easter ‘today’ is as much as it was 2,000 years ago. For many years Christians have talked about every Sunday being a ‘mini’ Easter. So if every Sunday is a ‘mini-Easter’, what are we doing in our own lives to participate fully in the Mass and keep the day holy. The world we live in is as busy as ever, we have access to online shopping 24/7 even if we live in a small rural town where the shops actually close on Sundays. This is our day and we are commanded to keep it holy. St Jerome wrote “Sunday is the day of the resurrection, it is the day of Christians, it is our day” and St Augustine wrote that Sunday ‘is a sacrament of Easter. So in reflecting on keeping our Sundays holy, we first need to make sure we understand why and let us keep them holy, all year round.
To what extent do we understand the origins of the Mass, beyond the Last Supper and the triumph of Calvary, in
relation to the importance of keeping Sunday holy? Are we simply here because of an obligation to come to Mass - because our parents said so - or more correctly because of the Code of Canon Law “On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Mass.” (1247) Or do we actually understand why the Lord’s Day is so important? Understanding the theological significance of Sunday as the Lord’s Day, the Church’s
teachings on why it should be kept holy, and how Catholics are called to live this day through worship, acts of charity and rest will perhaps help refresh our outlook on Sunday. To participate in the Mass, we have faith and a desire to grow closer to the Lord. To participate fully in the Mass we must understand its origins, the practices of the early Church and the Jewish liturgical traditions together with theological foundations that shaped its development.
The Second Vatican Council’s Sacrosanctum Concilium, (The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy) called the faithful to engage fully, consciously, and actively in the liturgy, not
KIRSTY MUIR
merely as passive observers but as integral participants in the Sacred action. St. Pope John Paul II stressed the importance of Sunday Mass and that Catholics are encouraged not only to attend Mass out of obligation, but to actively take part in the liturgy by listening attentively to the readings, singing, and joining in the prayers.
Since the evening of the Last Supper almost 2,000 years ago, the Church has carried out Jesus’ command when He instructed “Do this in memory of me.” Lk 22:19. On that evening, He taught us the importance of humility through service by washing the apostles’ feet. He then took bread, blessed it, and broke it, thus instituting the Eucharist. The sacrifice was finished on Calvary the following day, the ultimate act of redemption. The Resurrection three days later is at the centre of our faith, affirming Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Every Sunday at Mass we partake in the Eucharist (the source and summit of our faith), which is where the Last Supper and Calvary become truly present. In the words of Pope Benedict “At the celebration of the Eucharist, we find ourselves in the ‘hour’ of Jesus. We are sent forth in the hope of the resurrection, to live it in our daily lives, sharing it with others through our actions and witness.
“We are an Easter People and Alleluia is our song”.
- St. John Paul II
Keeping Sunday holy is a commandment, more specifically the Third Commandment: “Remember the Sabbath, and keep it holy” Exod 20:8. In the Old Testament, the Sabbath was observed on Saturday. The Catholic Church teaches that Sunday, as the day of the Resurrection, fulfils the Sabbath, the new and eternal day of rest. “God blessed the seventh day and he consecrated it, for on it he rested from all the work he had done when he created all things” Gen 2:3. This became the foundation for the Sabbath observance in Jewish tradition, a day set apart for rest and reflection. For Christians, Sunday, the first day of the week, took on a special significance because it was the day of Christ’s resurrection. In the New Testament, Sunday is seen as the ‘eighth day’ symbolising new creation and eternal life. “Sunday is the day on which the paschal mystery is celebrated in light of the apostolic tradition and is to be observed as the foremost holy day of obligation in the universal Church.”CCC2177
So, past the Mass, what else is expected of us on this holy day? Our requirement to keep the Sabbath holy goes beyond our obligation to attend Mass. Last year in a Mass I attended, just prior to the dismissal, a priest reminded us, “When I say: ‘go and announce the Gospel of the Lord,’ this literally means go out - run and evangelise (after you genuflect and leave the Church reverently of course, he quickly added.)” Therefore, our active participation in keeping the day as holy, does not end when we are
dismissed from the Mass. The Latin word missa (in the context of the Mass) means ‘sent.’ Benedict XVI said that the word in antiquity simply meant dismissal, the deeper meaning has come to mean mission. We are being sent out on Mission.
It is important to not forget the service that Christ showed his apostles in the washing of their feet as mentioned above. We are called in mission particularly on Sundays and when we are doing Christ’s work this is still a sacred act therefore considered holy. Sunday’s ‘rest’ is meant to free people for God and neighbour.” (Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, sec 284.) Almsgiving is not and was not just for Lent. St. Pope John Paul II talked of the social dimension of Sunday, stating that it is a day not only for worship but also for “solidarity” with others, especially the poor and marginalized, to offer works of mercy and charity and discipleship. (Dies Domini 70) This echoes the teaching of Jesus, who reminded His followers that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath (Mark 2:27).
So, we have attended Mass and served others, does this mean we just lie around now and do absolutely nothing, after we have attended Mass and served those in need? Potentially we can, as we should rest, however we must remember when we worship God it strengthens our relationship with Him. Scrolling mindlessly on our phones, does not. I know plenty of families where screen free days are high up on the list for a Sunday. Many families (mine included) suffer from the busyness of life today, even sport is not contained to Saturday morning, but all day Sunday. However this is nothing new, St. Pope John Paul II again talked about this in his 1998 pastoral letter, regarding weekends becoming filled up with other activities due to them being ‘free days’. Like everything, it is something we must put effort into. Other ideas are family hobbies, spending time in the garden - but not to do yard work, cooking at leisure – during the week there might not be patience for small hands to help chop vegetables. Create prayer spaces, spending time with family and friends as well as evening prayer. This rest is not just about avoiding work but about creating space for reflection, prayer, and community. In our secular world, it is no longer essential workers that must work Sundays now either, with most shops open on Sundays (which is even creeping into Easter Sunday now also.) Maybe you can make small simple changes like avoiding the supermarket on Sunday.
In the writings of St Ignatius of Antioch, we are called to live in accordance with the Lord’s Day, as the early believers gathered on the first day of the week, following the Jewish Sabbath, to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ. By keeping Sunday holy, Catholics participate in this tradition and are reminded of their call to holiness and eternal life.
Ite, missa est.
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
(Hint: There are 5!)
MATCH THE VESTMENTS
In the Bible, there are important stories that tell us about the special clothes, called vestments, that priests wear when they serve God. These vestments are not just regular clothes; they are beautiful and have special meanings. While our current vestments are not as such an adaptation of those in the Old Testament, the influence of wearing a special type of clothing for Sacred liturgical rites sounds pretty familiar!
EXODUS 28 “Tell your brother Aaron to come to you. His sons Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar must come with him. Separate them from the other Israelites. These men must serve as priests. 2 Make holy clothes for your brother Aaron to give him honor and beauty. 3 Speak to all the people to whom I have given the ability to make clothes. Tell these skilled craftsmen to make the clothes for Aaron. Use these clothes to make him belong to me. Then he may serve me as a priest. 4 These are the clothes they must make: a chest covering, a holy vest, an outer robe, a woven inner robe, a turban and a cloth belt. The craftsmen must make these holy clothes. They are for your brother Aaron and his sons. Then Aaron and his sons may serve me as priests. 5 The craftsmen must use gold and blue, purple and red thread, and fine linen.
(International Children’s Bible)
Welcome to 2025.
A new academic year has kicked off at Holy Cross Seminary! We warmly welcome back our returning students and are thrilled to greet a large group of new first-year students. With their arrival, our seminary community has grown to 24 members.
First and foremost on our annual agenda is the Hikoi in the Hamilton Diocese, a journey that takes us to various parishes and locations.
Another joyful highlight is celebrating the recent ordination of Fr. Matthew White, newly ordained for the Diocese of Wellington—congratulations to him!
“Let us ask God’s guidance for the year ahead, Deus Gracias”
CATHNEWS NEW ZEALAND
A new book, Pilgrimage Aotearoa | Haerenga Tapu Aotearoa, invites readers on a spiritual journey through 100 unique sites across New Zealand, blending history, culture, and faith. Among the Catholic sites featured are:
• St Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral, Auckland
• Pompallier Printery, Russell
• Jerusalem/Hiruhārama, Whanganui River
• Our Lady’s Home of Compassion, Island Bay
• St Mary of the Angels, Wellington ... and more!
With reflections, travel tips, and historical insights, this book is a perfect companion for those seeking meaningful journeys at home— especially during the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year 2025.
CATHOLICDIOCESEOFHAMILTON
Today's readings remind us to reflect on the profound hope that arises from trusting in the Lord.
In this year of Jubilee, hope was a common word used on Thursday morning at the parish of All Saints by the Sea. The seminarians had been on hikoi in the Hamilton Diocese since the start of the week. They had Mass with our Bishop, a history talk at Maketū, dinner with couples from Teams of Our Lady, a spiritual direction day with Fr Shortall, morning tea in the above parish following Mass and a chance to meet with students and staff at Aquinas College.
To see how many young men have said yes, all in varying parts of their journey, just filled everyone with such hope! Keep praying those vocation prayers, keep putting your trust in the Lord, He is so good!
LIFETEENAOTEAROANZ
Hands up if you miss camp?! We know we do. So to help with that, we’re gonna be posting some *memories* from LTSC 2025! Starting off today with some highlights from DAY 1!
CATHOLICENQUIRYNZ
Art has the power to uplift the soul. Throughout history, religious masterpieces have conveyed themes of hope, renewal, and faith.
Discover how sacred art continues to inspire today: https://www.catholicdiscovery.nz/ seed/masterpieces-of-hope
#MasterpiecesOfHope #FaithThroughArt
TEKUPENGA_CTC
Today we welcomed our new students with a mihi whakatau followed by College Mass, orientation and workshop, and of course some kai. They are all set for the lectures starting Monday.
A lot of aroha shared in this day of love, the Feast of St Valentine.
• 31 AUGUST: 2024/25
Accountability Reports due.
• 01 SEPTEMBER: 2025/26 open for Grant Applications.
• 30 SEPTEMBER: Grant Applications close.
HOLY CROSS SEMINARY
