Kete Kōrero Easter 2024

Kete Kōrero

BISHOP RICHARD LAURENSON

The season of Lent and Easter tells the primordial story of sin, its consequence (death), and the redemption found in Christ Jesus Our Lord. It is fairly obvious to all who look around that we are surrounded by sin and death. Everything has been scarred by sin, marked by the evil accompanying it.

We are soon to see an example. The Royal Commission into abuse in the country is finally due to report. It will be ugly because sin is ugly in reality. Their report will trigger shock and anger and all sorts of other emotions.

It is always tempting to see our leaders as perfect and unblemished. They must be because they are ‘fill in the blank’ and we trust them or trust those that put them there. In fact whenever one of our leaders fails and their sometimes terrible sin is uncovered we often take the shame upon ourselves and are moved to cancel them and everything they stood for including the Divine Doctor, Jesus Christ.

Children discovering the sinfulness of their parents can lead to a crisis in faith, true also

regarding leaders at school, in professional life, in the church.

Not all is lost. The fact of Easter speaks of the Triumph of our Lord over Sin and Death. The Divine Son of God, became a man, so that he could do for us what we could not do for ourselves. No one can avoid sin. We are all scarred by it, we are all weighed down by it. We all do it. Even the Holy Father is not so holy that he does not need to go to confession himself.

In the face of relentless sin and its ugliness we need to stop and think for a moment. The main reason the Catholic Church was established by Christ [and exists at all] is to be the home of rescued sinners, brung into the healing embrace of Christ, and becoming Saints of God, Citizens of heaven, true Sons and Daughters of the Creator.

The Divine Man embraced our Sinful Condition in order to heal us. The same Divine Man called woefully sinful men and women to cling to him. Let’s name just three…. Peter, Mary Magdalene, Judas. I don’t have to list their sins, they are great and well known. Two of them clung to Jesus,

sought his forgiveness and are great saints, one was too proud to seek divine help and is lost.

The same Divine Man still makes the same “mistake”. He only seems to attract and call sinful men and women. Well, the sinless don’t need him, and those who think they are sinless don’t want him. Yes, the Church Jesus established is inhabited 100% by sinful men and women. But the same church is Holy, because Christ is Holy, and by His Grace, we are being healed and moved from sin and disgrace, into grace and light.

Having said all this, I realise there is a double challenge for us as church members and leaders. How to keep our most vulnerable safe from the evils that beset us, and how to be a place of healing and hope for those who are still hurt by

the evils they have experienced.

We have made great progress in the first challenge. This last challenge is more difficult because all of us suffer in one way or another, and sometimes we feel helpless in the face of other people’s suffering.

PRAYER OF SAINT RICHARD OF CHICHESTER

Thanks be to You, my Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits You have given me, for all the pains and insults You have borne for me.

O most merciful redeemer, friend and brother, may I know You more clearly, love You more dearly, and follow You more nearly, day by day. Amen.

PUBLISHER:

CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF HAMILTON, NEW ZEALAND

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:

KIRSTY MUIR | KIRSTYM@CDH.ORG.NZ

ART DIRECTOR:

TAILA BURTONGOLLOP

PROOFREADER:

PATRICIA PARSONS

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PHONE: 07 856 6989

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COVER

SOWING SEEDS: TRUSTEES ON A GREEN MISSION

The Bernadette Trust was established, with the benefactors’ vision in mind to support the bishop in the diocese. This can be anything from assisting covering costs involved with priest training to youth festivals, family camps to resources for parishes. It also includes support for Tyburn Monastery, and encourages the trustees to take an active interest in the Sisters and their work as well as support for retreats and use of the property. Recently the members of the Bernadette Trust spent the better half of a day on site at Tyburn.

Of most excitement was the recent planting project, Tyburn recently acquired adjacent land and set out to plant 1200 redwood trees. While most of us won’t be around to see these trees at full growth, we thought of the future generations who will look back on this moment in history. They have just emerged from their fragile state, with the plan to create a loop walk from the top of ‘cross mountain’ around through the forest and back up the steps by the lake.

PHOTO SUPPLIED: A JUVENILE REDWOOD TREE GROWS AT TYBURN

In Tyburn’s cosy hug ‘beneath the sunny sky so blue in Aotearoa, Baby redwoods sprout, like dreams coming true. While the Tyburn is quiet we pray to you in Silence. With prayer trees around, they hold hands and sway, Growing big and strong, to play another day.

Their tiny roots wiggle, like worms in the ground, In Tyburn’s special place, where stories are found.

From the Editor:

‘Called to Serve’

After a few staff changes in the Kete team, it is my privilege to write this editor’s note. I am Mum to three, and All Saints by the Sea in Mount Maunganui is our home parish. I will still be busy with events and retreats, but I look forward to sharing our “Basket of Stories” as your new editor.

Preparing for the Easter Triduum, the ‘Titus Tidbits’ section has recommendations for ‘what to watch’ on Formed. Spend time reflecting on our bishop’s address, where he reminds us of the Triumph over Sin and Death. The bishop has been busy settling in, some of his Mass activities we cover in here, others have had to go up online as our baskets were ‘overflowing’.

For years and years, they’ll stand tall and free,

They giggle and dance, in the soil they roam, Baby redwoods growing, in their leafy home.

In Tyburn’s warm embrace, for all to see. The native redwood stand so tall and they let their leaves fall and fall. So let’s care for them, with love and prayer,

Baby redwoods growing, year by year.

FROM THE CREATIVE WRITINGS OF SUZANNE AUBERT SCHOOL, PAPAMOA, YEAR 6 STUDENTS (PICTURED ABOVE): LAUREN, HARPER, TUI, SOPHIE, NELLE, MIKEY AND DINO (ABSENT).

Commissioning Masses, Papal Awards, Family Vocations, our theme for this issue is very much ‘called to serve’. Our Good Shepherd Sunday feature, shares an update on Nhat. Prayers for vocations do get heard! We also couldn’t go past an image of Fr Adam, our most recently ordained priest, celebrating the Ash Wednesday Mass at Aquinas College. We profile our Aquinas 2024 school leaders, along with our other college leaders, who serve their school.

The Royal Commission final report is due out. We asked David Mullin from Te Rōpū Tautoko to include a reflection piece. It is a moving assurance that the Church has learnt and will continue to make changes to ensure history never repeats.

I extend gratitude to those who helped contribute to our baskets. I’d love to hear from you and look forward to your story ideas and requests.

GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY 21st April 2024

G"THE ENTIRE PEOPLE OF GOD IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PROMOTING VOCATIONS, AND DOES SO CHIEFLY BY PERSISTENT AND HUMBLE PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS."

- POPE JOHN PAUL II

ood Shepherd Sunday or Vocations Sunday, on April 21, is marked world wide as a day of prayer for Vocations. The purpose of this day is to fulfil Jesus’ instruction to “Pray the Lord of the harvest to send labourers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:38). We are all called to a vocation, whether religious or single life, however specifically on Good Shepherd Sunday, the Church 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 at this same time every year that we run our seminary appeal alongside other dioceses in New Zealand. We humbly ask for your support in both prayer and monetary donations.

This year the Holy Cross, our National seminary, has a total of 17 seminarians. Three of these men are out on pastoral assignment, six of them are in their first year and this includes one of our very own from the Hamilton Diocese. Nhat Long Cao, who we first introduced to you in our Spring 2023 Kete Kōrero, is now a resident at Holy Cross Seminary.

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. Nhat sent us a message early February once he was settled in, he was looking forward to his study beginning on February 19, but asked us all to

pray for him on his long and challenging journey ahead.

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. Hung Van Ha, who we also met in the spring edition, is continuing his English studies, this time over at the Bay Learning Academy in Mount Maunganui. Your donations assist with his living expenses and tuition fees, while he continues his discernment to the priesthood.

As we continue to pray for new vocations, let us not forget to pray for our clergy, and give thanks for their yes. We also pray for our youth, that they may be open to hear the true call of their future vocations.

Photo below: Fr Adam Kirkeby was our last seminarian, ordained in August of 2022 and is now assistant priest at St Mary’s in Tauranga. He recently celebrated Ash Wednesday Mass at Aquinas College.

History Never Repeats?

DAVID MULLIN

David Mullin is project director for Te Rōpū Tautoko, the group supporting Catholic engagement with the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care.

As we approach the end of Aotearoa New Zealand’s Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, I thought the Split Enz song title served as a thought-provoking headline - but punctuated with a question mark.

In 2019 I was asked to assist Te Rōpū Tautoko, the group coordinating Catholic engagement with the Inquiry. That journey is nearing its conclusion. The Inquiry is preparing to issue its final report, currently due to be published in late March 2024. Their report will look backwards into the history of care in Aotearoa and report on the factors and impacts of abuse suffered by those in care. It will also offer some guides for the future.

Everyone who has heard or seen the proceedings of the Inquiry cannot help but be impacted by the voices of survivors. You might have heard a survivor’s testimony at the Inquiry or read media reports about abuse of those in the care of the Church. Some may consider the reality of what has been exposed during recent years, and again brought to light by the Royal Commission here in NZ, like an approaching storm.

Church leaders have stated that they have heard, listened, are acting and must continue to act.

However, we need to acknowledge that many people are wary of being caught in the storm. Tired of bad news and more difficult headlines, many shelter from the approaching clouds, maybe with a sense of fatigue around this topic. If we get stuck in this place it might be easy to say that this is a problem for someone else to solve.

Pope Francis provides some words in response, written for the pandemic but equally as valid in other contexts:

“We find ourselves afraid and lost. Like the disciples in the Gospel we were caught off guard by an unexpected, turbulent storm…

The Lord asks us and, in the midst of our storm, invites us to reawaken and put into practice solidarity and hope capable of giving strength, support and meaning to these hours when everything seems to be floundering.” (27 March 2020)

From the Office

Ongoing re-awakening demands more than a Royal Commission or for our government or church leaders to somehow make it right. In 2019, writing in the May-June edition of Kete Korero, Bishop Steve Lowe said:

”My hope is that the Royal Commission will lead to the breaking of the cycle of sexual abuse in our country…By talking about it, by looking at this underbelly that is in our families, the Church and society can as a community work together to create a Church and society where our children are safe.”

Our shared history demands a recognition of the need for effective change, a breaking of the cycle.

Over the past 30 years, the Church in Aotearoa has made significant progress in responding to abuse, and our focus must remain steadfastly on ensuring safety for everyone today and into the future. Recently, Te Rōpū Tautoko has, on behalf of church leaders, developed a roadmap – that is focused on what church leadership will do. That is all part of the picture.

However, we all have a part to play, now, and talking about it is a start. We are all challenged to stand in solidarity with those survivors and victims of the crimes and misconduct of those in leadership that have come to light. Truly hearing the voices of survivors and responding in your own way on a local level is a fundamental need.

As we receive the final report of the Royal Commission, we must look forward in hope. That means, as Pope Francis asks of us, to stand with those who have been harmed and be reawakened to ensure that history never repeats.

IF SOMEONE DISCLOSES TO YOU THAT THEY HAVE BEEN HARMED OR ABUSED BY SOMEONE WHO WORKS OR VOLUNTEERS FOR THE CATHOLIC CHURCH, YOU NEED TO: Listen with empathy and respect. Affirm them for coming forward to you. Avoid asking unnecessary questions.

Encourage them to get in contact with the right people (see below), this is dependent on the nature of the complaint. You can offer to make the call on their behalf.

Record what they have said to you, as swiftly as possible after the disclosure (no later than 24 hours).

Remember, it’s not up to you to judge whether a disclosure is true or false. Your job is to make sure that the information gets to the right people as soon as possible.

WHO TO CONTACT:

For sexual abuse involving Clergy or Religious call one or more numbers from the following list:

• Police (Contact the nearest Police Station)

• Bishop’s Office at Chanel Centre 07 856 6989 | ps@cdh.org.nz

• National Office for Professional Standards 0800 114 622 | prof.standards@nzcbc.org.nz

• Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children 0508 326 459

For any other complaints involving Clergy or Religious call or email:

• Bishop’s Office at Chanel Centre 07 856 6989 | ps@cdh.org.nz

For sexual abuse complaints involving a lay person or non-religious person call one or more numbers from the following list:

• Police (Contact the nearest Police Station)

• Diocesan Complaints Officer at Chanel Centre 07 856 6989 | complaints@cdh.org.nz

• Oranga Tamariki — Ministry for Children 0508 326 459

For any other complaints involving a lay person or non-religious person call or email:

• Diocesan Complaints Officer at Chanel Centre 07 856 6989 | complaints@cdh.org.nz

CATHOLIC LEADERS IN FOCUS:

SPOTLIGHT ON THE HEAD STUDENTS OF OUR COLLEGES

AQUINAS COLLEGE TAURANGA

Catherine (Kitty) Finnimore - Head Girl

When I was asked to write a short piece on my own Catholic faith and its value to me, the first thing I did was google it (don’t we all?). The internet told me that one of the reasons being Catholic is so valuable is because it instils resilience. This resilience comes from

knowing that no matter what hardships we face, we can overcome them through faith and our Catholic beliefs.

At the wise old age of 17, I have indeed found this to be true. When faced with fear, anxiety, worry, or stress, the only thing that truly brings peace is prayer, faith, and resilience.

My own Catholic faith is strong. I was raised in the Wellington parish of St. Joseph’s Church in Mt. Victoria, where, during the recessional hymn, my sister and I would dance. Initially, we danced in our family pew, but as smiles grew, Father Patrick Bridgman invited us to dance in front of the altar after he proceeded out. We did, and the trend caught on, with our little parish church ending every week with smiles and many children dancing. It was quite a sight with 10-15 small children skipping and smiling and twirling. While the more structured aspects of faith, like prayer, have replaced my dancing now, this reflection prompts me to think: how do we end Mass and carry our faith and joy into the world? Perhaps those little girls in skirts had a lesson for all of us—that we should dance and share our faith in a way that is visible to others. I really hope to do

this as Aquinas College’s Head Girl for 2024. It is a great time to be a Catholic: we are a strong Church, we are a Church that celebrates, we are a Church with many Saints that are lights to us all. It is great to be a Catholic today. Now go and find your dancing shoes.

AQUINAS COLLEGE TAURANGA

Hamish Murray - Head Boy

Kei aku nui, kei aku rahi, tēnei te mihi nui.

Ko Pirongia te Maunga

Ko Waikato Te Awa

Ko Whāi-nga-roa Te Moana

Ko Hamish Murray Ahau

Joshua 1:9:

“Be strong and courageous.

Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed,for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.

This scripture is one that I will carry with me not only this year but throughout my journey. In my Head Boy speech at our beginning of the year assembly, I discussed this Bible verse and its significance to the students at Aquinas College. It encourages students to face life’s challenges with confidence, strength, and faith, knowing that God is always present and there to guide us all on our journey. The assurance of God’s presence provides us, as believers, with a sense of guidance and protection. ‘Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed’—this part is especially directed at the younger students at Aquinas, as we are fortunate enough to include Year 7-13 students. I want the Year 7s and new students to understand that God will be with them throughout their journey at Aquinas and that they can face the challenges ahead knowing God is with them.

CAMPION COLLEGE, GISBORNE

Hamish Swann - Head Boy

Kia Ora, my name is Hamish Swann, and I come from Campion College within the St Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Parish.

A little about myself: I am deeply privileged and humbled to serve as the Campion College Head Boy for 2024. I’ve been a

student at Campion since Year 7 and have always strived to encourage and support others. My interests include cricket, hockey, coaching sports for the college, surf lifesaving and attending the Boys’ Breakfast Prayer Group with my friends at school. One scripture that resonates with me is Philippians 4:13 (NIV): “I can achieve all things through strength.”; This verse encourages us to rely on God’s strength to accomplish tasks and goals, bringing us closer to God. It emphasises the idea that with faith and trust in God, we can overcome challenges and succeed in our endeavours. Its simplicity makes it a powerful reminder of the strength and guidance available to those who pursue their goals with support from God and others. I hope to model this during my year as Head Boy.

CAMPION COLLEGE, GISBORNE

Jacqueline Nankivell - Head Girl

He honore, he kororia ki te atua, mo tana maungarongo ki te whenua, he whakaaro pai ki nga tangata katoa.

E aku rangatira tena koutou katoa, koutou nga mema o te Haahi Katorika nei ra ka mihi.

Ahakoa te aha, ka tuku whakamoemiti ki to tatou Atua, nana nga mea katoa i hanga. Kia ratou kua wehe ki te po, haere atu ra. Tahuri atu kia tatou katoa, tihei mauriora.

Faith, to me, is what keeps me on track to making good decisions. It is about trusting the process but also working hard for the things you desire. Faith has helped me as a leader because when times get tough, I have faith that what I am doing is the right thing. There have been times when I have questioned my ability as a leader, but with faith, I can trust that my leadership will benefit those around me. Faith also means keeping God in my thoughts at all times. I strive to help my peers strengthen not only their faith in God but also their faith in general — faith in themselves, faith in what they believe in, and faith in those around them. That, to me, is my ultimate goal as a leader.

ST JOHN’S COLLEGE, HAMILTON

Leighton Jones - Head Boy

Kia Ora My name is Leighton Jones, Head Boy of St John’s college for 2024

Ko Taupiri te Maunga

Ko Waikato te awa

Ko Waikato te iwi

Ko Tainui te waka

Ko Ngati Koroki

kahukura te hapu

Ko Nga Tai E rua te Marae

My Vision as a leader for 2024 is to do the best I can to create a more inclusive and collective environment here at St Johns. I will do this by hearing the voices of my fellow leadership members and using our strengths together to come up with a plan to accomplish this vision. This can be like more events to bring the school closer and without a doubt this will help strengthen the Johnnies brotherhood.

Next is to become an inspiration for those young men who are just starting their college journey. For this to happen I need to portray key values like Respect, Confidence, Honesty, and Resilience. Showing these values like confidence will make them feel more comfortable as a Johnnies man and hopefully inspire them to be a leader of the school in the future.

Lastly, to leave the role of Head Boy in a better place for future leaders. I aspire to achieve this by being driven to be better everyday, to make a positive impact on my surroundings, and to do what I can to add value to this Head Student role. Nga mihi.

SACRED HEART GIRLS COLLEGE, HAMILTON

Kate Monsma - Head Girl and Sarah HealyDeputy Head Girl (Catholic Character)

My vision as a leader for 2024 is to foster an environment where every student feels accepted and included. I aim to inspire young girls to have courage, be proud of their faith and to never give up.

In the Bible, faith is the integration of actions and belief. For me there is no faith without action. Living my faith outwardly, serving others and displaying the love of Christ is what faith means to me. Sacred Heart Girls College Hamilton fosters an inclusive, supportive and caring environment where students are encouraged to express their faith, be the best they can be and seize opportunities. “Ignite the passion, inspiring young women to change the world”. I love serving my parish during masses and liturgies. I participate as Extraordinary Minister of Communion. I am also involved with the local St Vincent de Paul.

I hope to attend university to study Law and International Relations and would love to work

overseas one day. The scripture that resonates most with me and will guide me in leadership is “ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” - Philippians 4:13 (NIV)

Overcoming challenges often seems daunting, but this verse reminds me that I am not relying on my own strength. In Christ, I find the resilience, courage, and power to overcome any obstacle. His strength is made perfect by our weakness. To my Year 9 self I would say, “Take time to enjoy the journey, believe in yourself always, be kind and trust your abilities. Remember there will be times when you will face challenges that feel impossible to overcome, but with challenges comes growth and new opportunities”

Kia Ora. My name is Sarah Healy and I am the Deputy Head Girl of Catholic Character at Sacred Heart Girls College. I am originally from the parish of St Joseph’s Fairfield/Holy Cross, but now I am part of the Cathedral parish. At Sacred Heart, Hauora (Wellbeing) includes spiritual not just physical wellbeing. With this in mind, my vision as a leader for 2024 is to carry on the mission and faith aspects of my school, by helping my fellow students to learn and embrace their religion and beliefs.

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE, ROTORUA

Aaron Muchirahondo - Head Boy

Tēnā koutou katoa, ko Aaron tōku ingoa, kei St Mary’s Parish, Rotorua.

As a leader in 2024, I see myself working hard to make our school a better place for everyone, where each student feels important and included in the JPC community.

My faith in God is a central part of this process. I look to strong leaders in the Bible such as Jesus

for inspiration on how to lead by example and to be of service to others.

I plan to be active in the many programmes JPC offers that help people understand and appreciate different cultures, such as our international food festival, cultural dances and celebrations. In addition to this, I ensure everyone feels connected to our school. Our school theme for 2024 is Whakamana. The idea behind this theme is about uplifting and empowering your peers. I aim to carry out this by actively promoting and participating in fun events, as well as ensuring everyone feels heard, and encouraged to actively engage in school life. Whether it’s sports, art, or academics, I want everyone to have a chance to shine.

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE, ROTORUA

Sara Stahlhut - Head Girl

Kia Ora, my name is Sara Stahlhut. I am very honoured to be this year’s Head Girl of John Paul College Rotorua, as well as a proud member of the St Mary’s Parish. All my life faith has surrounded me. I grew up with my family’s Catholic faith, and for the longest

time my faith was just a habit, something I had, something I believed in, but it was never something that I thought about all that much. And now as adulthood seems to be looming closer to my doorstep, I find myself thinking about and reevaluating what my faith really means to me and how as a young adult I will let it influence my life. I feel that my faith is my anchor and my safety net, it gives me a place to stay grounded when everything around me is changing and confusing. Faith is a constant that I can count on to be there even when the turbulent waves in life come crashing down. Throughout all the highs and lows in my life, the things that I had

faith in were always there. Many people may think that a faith can tie you down, but what I have come to realise is that faith is a choice; every individual has the ability to decide for themselves what they want to believe in. Like an anchor at sea, if you like the place in which you are ported you can choose to stay there, but if you want to explore something new, you can lift the anchor and sail where the tide takes you next. To me, faith is comfort and hope, a positive driving force to reach your full potential in life. As long as we keep our faith, there is no limit to what we can achieve.

RECOGNITION OF LIFELONG SERVICE AND DEVOTION

AN INTERVIEW WITH THE BARNETTS

Interviewed

by Kirsty Muir

“When Paul was told of the honour to be bestowed on him to be a Papal Knight he went very quiet. Even as I write this, I know he is still processing. He is very humble and doesn’t believe he has done enough to be worthy. He is used to making sure others get the credit.”

n Paul’s nomination letter the following sentence was included: “Paul is someone who often works quietly behind the scenes”. I already had a sense of his humility from this one line and the words written above from his wife Jan, just cemented my assumption.

Paul was nominated by Bishop Steve Lowe for a Papal knighthood in 2021, not only for his service to the Church, but by being active in the wider community and bringing his faith to all that he says and does.

Husband, Father of four, Grandad to seven, Paul is proud of his mixed ancestry - English, Irish and Raukawa. Over the past 20 years the Barnett family have moved between the Cathedral, St Matthews (Hillcrest) and St Mary’s in Tauranga. Paul had an office in Tauranga for almost 30 years, so naturally they spent a lot of time over

on the East Coast side, a hot spot for weekends and holidays.

The Cathedral, though, is at the centre of Paul’s heart. His parents were married, actively involved in ministry (school included), and, finally when their time came; farewelled from there. His father was an altar server followed by Paul himself. Back in the day with altar rails, only the priests and servers were allowed in the Sanctuary (apart from the Bourke Sisters who cleaned), being so close to the Lord during the consecration was a reserved privilege. He served for many major church events and weddings. At the young age of 17 he was on the parish council, also helping to fundraise for the new Cathedral.

When extraordinary ministers of communion were first introduced, the people were asked to nominate parishioners. Paul, not yet 30, and his

PHOTOS

Dad received the top votes. Paul said ‘No’ but the priest questioned him “If you’re not good enough to give, should you be receiving?” So, Paul accepted but did the job very nervously, even now still hesitant about his worthiness. His greatest pleasure: bringing our Lord to the elderly.

Paul liked to work with Parishes behind the scenes, as a building and construction Project Manager and Building Consultant. His skills were perfectly placed to be used to the greatest advantage for everyone. A short list of the projects Paul was involved in:

• Shifted Taneatua Church to Ngakuru - the moving contractor for this and many other projects was at Paul’s investiture.

• Strengthening St Winifred’s, Little Waihi

• St Joseph’s, Morrinsville

• St Thomas More, Mt Maunganui

His extensive lifetime of service to the Diocese of Hamilton doesn’t stop there, as Paul also has a particular focus on those on the peripheries.

Included but not limited to, Male Support Services, Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation and Women’s Refuge. The latter group, with Paul’s encouragement, secured many companies to assist with moving a 400m² building and converting it to a safe house. The job was completed and passed over to the Women’s Refuge at zero cost. The building in 2015 was valued at $1.650 million.

His role as Building Consultant also allowed him to advocate for the underdog. Helping the elderly and poor, he would mediate for them in court for free. As Project Manager for Building Projects and Maintenance Plans for Schools, what is probably unknown to most people is that at some of the schools he worked with, the people were so poor, he or his company would quietly sponsor stationery or uniforms, etc for the pupils whose parents couldn’t afford it. He believed an education could help break the poverty cycle.

Paul also served on the Board of Trustees at St John’s College for about fifteen years. Some of

Called to Serve

the time as Parents Representative, some of the time as Bishop’s Representative. Once again his expertise and experience put to use for the school for building projects at no cost. His final job within the BOT was employing Shane Tong, the present Principal.

The husband might be the head of the family, but with the wife as the neck, Jan was very busy being a Mum of four children at the time and working for Paul in his office. I asked Jan to sum up Paul’s relationship with Christ. “Paul has a great life with Christ” said Jan. “His God is a fun-loving person like him. When you look at just some of the things he is involved in you may think his family has missed out. But NO! As a Husband and Dad he is great, always there for us, we weren’t rich but we never went hungry. There

“WHEN I STARTED IN THE ROLE OF PRINCIPAL AT ST JOHN'S COLLEGE, PAUL WAS ON THE BOARD AS A PARENT REP. HIS EXPERTISE IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT WAS INVALUABLE AS WE WENT THROUGH A MAJOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE COLLEGE FACILITIES OVER SEVERAL YEARS. HIS EXPERIENCE AS A BOARD MEMBER AND SUPPORT PERSON TO ME DURING THAT TIME HELPED GREATLY.”

- RAY SCOTT, PRINCIPAL ST JOHN'S COLLEGE, 1999 - 2010

are many happy memories of times in Tauranga Harbour out in our tin boat with our kids and friends fishing and learning to water ski. He was a great son to Rae and George, his parents were well looked after; his Mother especially after the early departure of George at 68”.

Originally, being too humble to accept our request to be featured in the Kete Kōrero, Paul passed my request for an interview on to his wife. On reflection and worried he would be given too much glory and attention, Paul later reached out to me in an email to say the following, which is the perfect place to leave this article.

“Please as you do with your article, but Jan needs to be praised. Jan was a convert to Catholicism, and while I was often busy serving the Church and assisting clergy and religious, she was generous with my time not really knowing the extent of what I needed to do. She always peer reviewed my work and of course typed it all up. Many people suggested Sainthood after our 25th Wedding Anniversary and they were correct. Without Jan I could not have done things that I have. She really deserved the award.”

KNOW, LOVE, FOLLOW DAY BY DAY: TEACHING AS A VOCATION

Our three Commissioning Masses were held in February around the diocese.

Bishop Richard spoke in his homily about not being able to love what we don’t know. The purpose of education is the pursuit of wisdom, from applying our knowledge we will grow in wisdom and find the truth in the love of Christ.

A more in-depth detail of Bishop Richard’s homily can be found online.

ST MARY’S STAR OF THE SEA, GISBORNE, 15 FEBRUARY

PHOTO 1:

Father Mark Field, Deacon Mike Rolfe, Bishop Richard Laurenson, Father Richard Cortes.

PHOTO 2: Music Group in Gisborne.

CATHEDRAL OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, HAMILTON, 8 FEBRUARY

PHOTO 1:

Congratulations to Sharmila Pinto and Lousie Harper from the Jubilee Early Childhood Centre.

They were both presented with their Certificate in Catholic Early Childhood Education at the Mass.

ST PETER CHANEL, WHAKATANE, 22 FEBRUARY

PHOTO 1:

Bishop Richard talking to students from John Paul College, Rotorua.

PHOTO 2:

Bishop Richard processing in at St Peter Chanel.

We acknowledge those who work and support our tamariki in our Catholic schools and thank them for their energy to be the witness of Christ.

Sacred Bonds:

ONE FAMILY’S VOCATIONS OF MARRIAGE, DIACONATE AND PRIESTHOOD

Most of us probably know Bishop Michael. Today we hear from his Dad, Henk Gielen, a deacon at the Parish of All Saints by the Sea. From growing up in a devout Catholic household, to his role as a Grandfather, settle in to read a beautiful testimony from a man who has answered both the call to marriage and diaconate.

Parishioner Kirsty Muir interviewed Deacon Henk in 2023

Deacon Henk, can you tell us a little bit about your younger years?

My parents were both Catholic, I was the fourth of eight children, born in the province of Limburg, in the Netherlands. My parents moved to NZ in 1951, I was only one, so just a baby when I moved. The family settled in a small coal mining village west of Huntly called Pukemiro. It was there that the formative years of my Catholic faith were planted.

My Dad was a devout man and practised his faith religiously, we had rosary every night and Mass on Sundays. My Dad had a deep devotion to Mary, when we would say the rosary at night, the atmosphere would change and there would be a sense of the Holy Spirit coming into the room. I could always sense the Holy Spirit in my Dad. To this day when I say a few Hail Mary’s that same presence comes without fail and this is a precious gift that I received from my Dad through his Catholic faith. I went to Huntly Catholic school (St Anthony’s) and a secular high school (Huntly College).

We all know a cradle Catholic who spent time away from the faith, did you ever experience this?

In our early married life, Maureen and I drifted from the Catholic faith. There was not a moment where we could say why, other than a busy life and me wanting to follow my desire to be a farmer and giving it everything that I had. Hard work and fast-paced, not enough time for our Lord, the Lord and us parted company as it were, and He did not have an important role in our life anymore. Over several years, we had built up our herd 50/50 sharemilking with 300 cows which was a lot back then. Then we had a crisis in our working life and things changed. I remember the day that one of our brothers came to visit and he mentioned to me, “You should have a bible in your house, do you have a bible?” and I said “No I don’t”. I spoke to Maureen that evening that

maybe we should have a bible in our house. The very next day and to my surprise when I came in from milking, there was a big bible on the table. Maureen had gone and bought it straight away - what a beautiful woman and she still supports me to this day.

It just sat there for a time as I was busy with my life and then one day I sat down and read a small passage from the bible, I only read the New Testament and the Gospels. The words that Jesus spoke in that bible were written in red and they were the only words I would read. It was as if Jesus was speaking to me directly.

From the day I picked that bible up in 1979, I have read a little scripture each day without fail. Some days Jesus surprises me with how He answers my thoughts and prayers with His scriptures. This Jesus speaking through His Word has had a profound effect on my life. As I read the scriptures daily, I began to see that my life was off track and my life did not mirror the life that the scriptures

Section

proclaimed. I was living for my own gratification and Jesus spoke of living for Him and for others, not my own ambitions, but for His love and loving His people.

This reading of scripture every day turned my life, and that of my family, upside down. It was like a rebirth, a new season for us, a reason to live for and a mission in God. God has a plan and purpose for each of us and through this I was just finding mine. I turned my life around and repented. I was a new man in Christ from chasing my ambitions and self-gratification to coming closer to Christ and making sacrifices to live for Him.

Life was not so much about me but living for others, of course dying to ourselves, which Christ calls us to, is a slow process where I wanted to be Christ-like, but felt myself continuing to fall into old ways and old habits. However, I was certain of Christ’s love for me, and it has kept calling me regardless of, and despite, my many weaknesses.

Once I found Christ I wished to share my new love of Christ with my family. Michael was coming up eight years old, Shawn was seven and Rachel three, my little family did not know what had hit them. From absolutely no belief or mention of God to Jesus becoming the centre of our family life.

You have 6 children and 15 grandchildren, most of whom we see at Mass every Sunday. You also have a son who is now a Bishop and a daughter who is Leader of Learning for RE at a local high school. Clearly our Lord was and still is at the heart and centre of your family. What advice would you have for young families now while raising their children?

I really believed in having a Catholic wife and so when I was searching for a wife I looked for a woman who was Catholic. On our first date together Maureen and I spoke about God in great detail. At the time Maureen was a CCD teacher (one of the leaders in the sacramental

programme). We were married and over the next few years God graced us with our six children. Michael had a vocation to become a priest and the rest of our children followed the vocation of marriage. They all have children, three each, these children range in age from 7 months to 23 years old.

There were family prayers in our house each night, Mass on Friday evening followed by fish’n’chips and most importantly mass every Sunday. Jesus was the centre of our young family’s life and in all important matters and decisions we would pray as a family and seek direction from the Holy Spirit and everyone was a part of it. No voice was too little or no child was too young to hear the Holy Spirit.

My goal in bringing up family was to make sure each child knew Jesus in a personal way. So in their own unique way they could feel the love of Christ and know him personally. I have an expectation of the Holy Spirit that it will guide my children in a way that they can feel it as I did as a child with my Dad.

Now my job is focussed on helping my Grandchildren to know God in a personal way whether it is teaching them songs or praying with them and asking my older grandchildren about how their relationship with God is and if they are going to church. My children make a joke about how it doesn’t matter how old you get, you’re not too old to be asked “did you go to Church this weekend?”.

I also ask my grandchildren “Have you been saying your family prayers?” and the little grandchildren will come and tell me, “Opa, Mum hasn’t been saying family prayers”. So then I will tell the parents, “Say your prayers tonight with so and so please”. The Grandchildren love it and off they go home to say their family prayers.

Tell us about your call to the Diaconate; we would love to know how your family took the

news too.

My call to the Diaconate was a gentle and persistent call, as I tried to follow Christ, Jesus is my dearest and best friend. I want to draw ever closer to him and when we do this he will ask things of us. This has happened in my life, it can be letting go of material things and even people as He leads me by his Holy Spirit. The Lord would ask little tasks of me and little sacrifices to make and as I worked with the Lord each day he drew me even deeper into himself.

I remember asking my wife Maureen what she thought of me being a Deacon, at the time she was not sure, so I left that decision for a few years, Maureen wasn’t ready. After a few years Maureen came to me and said if I was serious that she would support me 100%. Being a deacon was not a decision I could make on my own, my wife and my children were a part of this process, we prayed as a family. I also asked for their blessing as a part of my discernment and then there is the community of God, and the bishop, the decision can not be based on me alone. I was ordained a deacon on the 15th April 2005 which means in 2025 I will have been a deacon for 20 years.

As a parishioner who is blessed to hear many of your homilies, the Holy Spirit just flows out from you with every word to spread among the people. Can you tell us a little about your

personal prayer time?

I have a devotion to Our Lady and consider her as my Mother, I find our Mary is kind to me and always there for me. To put it simply, I belong to a small intimate family. Mary, Joseph and Jesus, also Michael the Archangel, are dear to me.

I started by reading the bible, reading what God was saying through the scriptures. Then I joined a small prayer group where I met with like-minded people where I was able to worship with others and learn more about my faith.

Now I pray every morning before getting out of bed, this entails reading the scriptures of the Church for the day and reflecting on them. At night when I go to bed I always hold my rosary beads in my hand so when I wake the first thought is to pray. I hold rosary beads in my pocket and whenever I feel them I remember to pray. I try in my prayer life to have a living relationship with Jesus even though I also do the set prayers each day. I know now it is about going to God all day and speaking to him as I go. I try to attend mass at least four times a week and the Lord is never far from any activity I do. I still go to a small prayer group each week, with like minded people and intercede for others to come to know Christ. When my family is in crisis we will get together and pray for the intentions of that particular person.

IGNITING HEARTS WITH FAITH: Transformative Journeys at Catholic Summer School

JESS JACKMAN, ISAAC HARRIS AND ANNA TUSTIN

The 31st edition of Hearts Aflame was held at Ngā Tawa Diocesan School in Marton from the 29th of December 2023 until the 7th of January 2024.

“Behold I make all things New” (Rev 21:5)

Established in 1992, Hearts Aflame aims to help young adults aged 18-35 develop and foster an authentic relationship with Jesus Christ and His Holy Catholic Church through participation in the Sacraments, prayer, and formation, livedout and experienced in a short-term community environment. Taking place each year over ten days in January, Hearts Aflame has been influential in forming a generation of Catholics; strengthening their faith, forming their minds and inspiring vocations to both the Priesthood, Religious and Married life.

Registration was full within a week of opening last year so some participants had to join a waiting list to attend. Joining the 125 young adults present over the week were 30 religious, and talented lay lecturers.

While Hearts Aflame is a ‘Summer School’, it is

also proof that, in the famous words of Father Stan Fortuna CFR, ‘There ain’t no party like a Catholic party!’.

The joy of being together for New Years overflowed at a very competitive Quiz night, followed by Mass, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament overnight, and the most glorious ice-cream sundae spread Hearts Aflame has ever seen!

The excitement of New Years over, bleary-eyed participants began the six mornings of lectures, which covered a variety of topics including ‘The Theology of Money’, ‘Spiritual Warfare’, ‘Being a Catholic Doctor’, ‘The Virtue of Prudence’ . Participants had the privilege in these lectures to learn from knowledgeable priests, religious and lay people from around New Zealand and Australia, including Father Matthew Gibson from Hamilton Diocese who lectured on Apologetics.

The Spiritual Life

Liturgical experiences from the breadth of the Catholic tradition included daily Mass, a candle-lit Rosary procession, Praise and Worship, a Grand Silence which lasted from early Thursday afternoon until mid Friday morning, Reconciliation and prayer ministry, Liturgy of the Hours and Adoration. Over the last 30 years, hundreds of young adults have volunteered their time to serve in this ministry. Hearts Aflame owes an enormous debt of gratitude to Jemma Brunton, who announced at the final dinner, that she is stepping down as Director of the planning team. She has served Hearts tirelessly and through great personal sacrifice for more than a decade.

Jessica Jackman, an old girl of Sacred Heart Girls’ College in Hamilton, has been appointed as the new Director to lead the 2025 Summer School. Jess reflects on the role ahead of her, “It was very overwhelming to be asked to take on this mission. Hearts has been going for 30 years- almost my whole life- so taking it on seemed a bit crazy. But when I prayed about it there was a real peace”.

Anna Tustin is the oldest in a family of seven children, she attended Aquinas College, graduating in 2023 with a scholarship to pursue an Arts Degree in Otago. This was her first time attending, given she has now reached the age of 18. Here is her short reflection on diving deeper

into her faith and keeping her heart set on fire as she prepares to leave home, transitioning from teenager to young adult.

Reflecting on the 10 days I spent at Hearts Aflame, the experience can be easily summed up with the word ‘transformative.’ While I certainly felt that I had a strong faith before I arrived, my time at the summer school was unlike anything I had experienced before. I had a few reservations about going, mostly doubting whether I would fit in, but those concerns were immediately put to rest upon my arrival.

I had never met so many people my age who yearned to deepen their faith, were open and honest about their own experiences and struggles, and genuinely wanted to be in community with each other. Every day presented a beautiful challenge filled with a multitude of different opportunities to behold and be beheld through healing adoration, benediction and the sacraments.

Prayer teams, confession, and spiritual guidance were regularly offered; and during lectures, our understanding of evangelisation, apologetics, ethics, and theology was extended. It was truly unique that, amidst the busy nature of our lives, we could sit in silence, gaze contemplatively at the Eucharist, and be set on fire.

Perhaps my two greatest takeaways from the experience were the real importance of surrounding myself with people who would encourage me to strengthen my faith and, secondly, allowing myself moments of silence, to gather my heart, will, spirit, and soul surrendering them to the Lord.

I have no doubt that I will attend Hearts Aflame again; it was a profound journey that deepened my understanding of faith and spirituality. I am filled with gratitude for every experience and each individual who, in their unique way, supported me on this journey and made an imprint on my life. To any young adult curious about exploring their faith journey, I wholeheartedly recommend attending Hearts Aflame – a place where hearts are set on fire with the love of the Lord.

PHOTO SUPPLIED: JESSICA JACKMAN (NEW DIRECTOR FOR 2025) WITH JEMMA BRUNTON (DIRECTOR 2017-2024)

WELCOME HOME

JUANITA RAMAN

From January 14 - 20, 196 teens, 65 summer staff and 40 chaperones from around New Zealand gathered at St Peter’s School, Cambridge, for the 8th Annual Life Teen Aotearoa Summer Camp 2024.

“Welcome home” can be a strange greeting from someone you have never met before, but at Life Teen Summer Camp (LTSC) this is the norm. LTSC allowed us the chance to be welcomed back home into the arms of the Lord. The theme, “Real Presence” aimed to break open the topic of the Eucharist. USA native and our special guest host, Maggie Craig, led us into this deep topic and encouraged us to not focus on the “how” but rather the “why” - why did Jesus take the form of a piece of bread? Simply put: because he loves us, and he wanted to share his heart with us.

The joy, zeal and love of the Gospel radiated through St Peter’s for the time we were there, truly taking “on earth as in heaven” to a new level. We got to encounter Christ in many different ways over the week, like His joy; through praise

and worship, messy games and fun activities. We experienced His glory and teachings through the Holy Mass and Maggie’s keynote sessions. We felt his healing touch through the priests and other religious, the summer missionaries, the powerful prayer nights, and heart to hearts with each other. But more importantly, we got to experience his Real Presence through Eucharistic Adoration.

Pope St John Paul II said that “the Eucharist is the heart of the Church. Where Eucharistic life flourishes, there the life of the Church will blossom”.

LTSC helped the young church in Aotearoa to flourish, and that is all thanks to those who invested their time, money and hearts into this mission. The young church was set on fire through this camp, and we are all ready to share that with you!

A huge thank you to everyone who made this camp possible, especially to those of you who generously financially contributed to the cost of sending teens from our diocese.

Common Good Foundation

ALAN MCALLEN, BETTY-ANN KAMP AND JESSICA TIMMINS

PHOTO SUPPLIED: WAIKATO CHRISTIAN SUPPLIES TRUST

BACK ROW: Robyn Fenneman, Marinota Deacon, Ken Deacon and Jessica Timmins (EO of CGF); FRONT

Alan McAllen

John Coulam (Chair CGF), and David Hall

The year 2023 was a hard year in many ways for the most vulnerable people of New Zealand. Common Good Foundation was both overwhelmed and grateful to all our Catholic donors who generously encouraged and supported us to make a measurable difference to those in need.

The funding of food banks became a major trend in 2023 as community groups were seeing far larger numbers through their doors. The demographic of foodbank users is also changing with many working-class families now accessing food parcels to help make ends meet.

As part of the parish-based initiatives, we funded the Parish of Tongariro who helped poor and disadvantaged people and families in the area with meals by way of weekly Tuesday community lunches. They also distributed firewood to those in need and provided breakfast and lunches at school for children of needy families.

We funded 26 more organisations throughout the

Diocese. The recipients provided many uplifting stories of success resulting from the funding they had received. All these additional stories can be found on our website, This includes Hours of Grace who help support teenage mothers and the Matapuna Trust who provide on-going support to those affected by Cyclone Gabriel.

The Common Good Foundation was also chosen as the Registered Charity nominated by The Waikato Christian Supplies Trust to receive one half of its Trust Fund upon the Termination of the Trust. We are excited to share this gift, the CFG met with the final board in December 2023 to assure them the funds will continue to give to those in need for many more years to come.

Read this story and more online at www.commongood.org.nz

ROW:

(Chair),

EMPOWERED FAITH: CHARTING THE PATH AHEAD AND CELEBRATING CHARITY

CLARE GALLAGHER

CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE

Matamata Success Story

It was with pleasure that we received news that our Branch has been successful in the two applications to the National Catholic Women’s League Board.

The National Board met in January and agreed that the yearly CWL National fund-raiser called the ‘At Home Appeal’ be awarded to the Plunket Society of NZ. Plunket is partially funded by the Government, but their Community Services side operates from grants and donations. Our application now enables all CWL Branches throughout NZ to raise funds and all money raised is forwarded to the Plunket Society, so worthwhile for mums and bubs.

Our other application relates to the Jubilee Fund. Every year this fund is available to a Catholic group/organisation within New Zealand to assist their work. We applied on behalf of the Marist Alternative Education Centre in Auckland. Their aim is to provide education for 13-16 year olds who have not engaged in the mainstream education system but can achieve so much, as the name implies, with alternative learning. Again so worthwhile.

Our Parish supports us in so many ways so a huge thanks to the Parishioners of the Holy Angels Parish, Matamata.

Such a great start to 2024.

Group Planning

Hamilton Catholic Women’s League Diocesan Council meet at Tyburn Monastery, Ngakuru every January to plan the year.

We have just enjoyed two days doing this work,well, work is not really applicable. The atmosphere at Tyburn is so peaceful, the surrounding scenic beauty picture perfect and the spiritual aspect is so uplifting.

Our Chaplain, Monsignor Frank Eggleton is always so encouraging in his reflection from which us members take great heart and strength for the coming year.

PHOTO SUPPLIED - BACK ROW: Mons. Frank Eggleton, Chaplain; Denise Powell, Te Awamutu; Jane Diment, Rotorua; Kathy Bell, Rotorua; Kris Shaw, Mt Maunganui; Bonnie Savage, Whakatāne; FRONT ROW: Margaret Brownsey, Tokoroa; Moira Kilbride, Cambridge; Clare Gallagher, Matamata.

CARITAS:

GIVE THE GIFT OF LOVE THIS HOLY WEEK

THE CARITAS TEAM

Lujan Home offers a safe haven for girls who have faced tough challenges. Some have fled forced marriages, endured abuse, come from impoverished families, had limited access to education, and have been at severe risk of harm. These risks range from young children suffering diseases like TB and malnutrition to girls facing threats due to false accusations of sorcery.

A special gift to the Bishops’ Lent Appeal 2024 will ensure that transformational work like this can continue. To learn more or donate please visit: Caritas.org.nz/Lent

PHOTO SUPPLIED: Students from Caritas partner Lujan Home for Girls, Papua New Guinea.

CHARIS

‘and all were filled with the Holy Spirit’ - Acts 2:4

HELEN SMITHSON

Current of Grace - “Let’s all get into the river not looking for conformity but for unity in diversity” was on the poster for our commissioning Mass at the Cathedral March 1st 2019! Much has happened since then but still many have not heard of CHARIS

CHARIS was established by Pope Francis, after 5 years of preparation and officially came into being at Pentecost 2019. The main focus of CHARIS is communion of the realities of Catholic Charismatic Renewal and collaborative service to the Church in the power, love and grace of the Holy Spirit. Service of Communion which Pope Francis initiated and then inaugurated into the Church under the Dicastery of Laity, Family and Life at International, Continental and National levels only.

In our nation we have a “Current of Grace Service of Communion” for each diocese, with each coordinator being part of our CHARIS New Zealand Service of Communion.

Hamilton Diocese has a strong presence in this team. Monsignor Frank Eggleton is the CHARIS Bishop’s Representative, appointed by the Bishops’

Conference, Bill Kornman is the treasurer, Wilma and Mike Conroy are the National Worship Leaders and I am the CHARIS New Zealand and Hamilton Current of Grace Coordinator.

Last May I was privileged to attend the first CHARIS Worldwide Intercessors Conference Ivory Coast - “For Such a Time As This” at the Foundation of Peace Centre, Yamoussoukro. 1800 intercessors including seven bishops and archbishops attended from 53 countries and 6 continents.

A leader at our national meeting felt we were being encouraged “to see beyond the horizon”to have expectant faith. We have hope to believe for what is unseen, to pray for things which are beyond our control and God has solutions beyond our imagination Jesus healed, delivered and set free and He asks this of us today. I believe we are coming into an era of miracles, signs and wonders but we have to “leave our boats behind - leave them on familiar shores” fix our eyes on Jesus and walk on water.

God has a good plan for each of us and we were born “for such a time at this”. This is not about religion but discovering and being the unique person God created us to be. When we know how much we are loved by God, we can love God, ourselves and others and service comes out of this love. When the Holy Spirit, whom we all received at Baptism with all His gifts, is activated in our lives we have an ongoing knowledge of God’s love for us to fulfil God’s purpose of knowing, loving and serving Him.

“Receive Holy Spirit Power”

After two postponements because of covid, the first National CHARIS Conference, “Receive Holy Spirit Power” was finally held at Waikanae last March. The Praise and Worship team led by Wilma and Mike was drawn from Rotorua, Tauranga and Hamilton. This team was amazing and connected the entire weekend and Monsignor Frank gave a stirring opening address on the Friday evening.

“So Who do You Say I Am?”

Current of Grace Hamilton hosted, “So Who do You Say I Am?” at St Columba School Hall on the last Saturday in August. A day of testimonies with a highlight being Juanita Raman and Geoffrey Smith sharing personal testimonies from their World Youth Day Pilgrimage. The faithfulness of God was a common thread in all talks. Small groups were formed and all shared their stories with each other. Prayer ministry was available and Wilma and Mike beautifully led Praise and Worship. Mons Frank shared his testimony and spoke on receiving the Holy Spirit. This is a mandate from Pope Francis who at the inauguration of CHARIS asked the Catholic Charismatic Renewal to be a Current of Grace and to “share baptism in the Holy Spirit with the whole Church”. At Baptism we all receive the Holy Spirit with all His gifts but we are unaware and He is not activated in our lives. We should not have been surprised when the following Sunday Reading was “Who do you say I Am?”!

God’s

Repair Shop

‘Who Do You Say I Am?’ was followed in October by an invitation to come to “God’s Repair Shop” - a Mass celebrated by Mons Frank at the Cathedral. Like the current series “The Repair Shop” God is always available to lovingly restore and renew us. Earlier in the year a “Healing of the Family Tree” Mass was well attended after being organised by Christine and Bill Kornman - Coordinators of Emotionally Free for the Hamilton Diocese. Current of Grace - like CHARIS - is about building relationships, creating networks, and leaders supporting leaders.

Current of Grace / CHARIS

Contact: Helen Smithson

smithsonhelen@gmail.com

Dove Catholic Fellowship for Women

Hamilton

Contact: nzdove.hamilton@gmail.com

Joshua Catholic Mens Fellowship

Owen Kowalewski - National Leader

Contact: Dave Colquhoun

dave.colquhoun@xtra.co.nz

Divine Retreat Ministries

Contact: Lynn Raman

lynnraman1966@gmail.com

CRANZ ‘RESTORE’.

Soul Inner Healing ministry.

Holy Spirit led prayer by trained counsellors.

Contact: Christine & Bill 0212313020

Hamilton Prayer Breakfast

Save the Date: Wednesday 11 September, Claudelands

PHOTO

Anno Sjoerd Brandsma was a Dutch Carmelite Academic who took the religious name of Titus. Fr Titus was imprisoned and later martyred at the Dachau concentration camp. Prior to this he visited fourteen editors with a letter from the conference of Dutch Bishops, advising Catholic newspapers not to print official Nazi documents. He was canonised on 15 May 2022, his feast day is 27 July and he is patron saint to Catholic Journalists. Links to his full bio can be found on our Kete website.

KIDS’ CROSSWORD

ACROSS

2. Jesus was placed in this after his death.(4)

5. When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowd shouted this. (7)

6. What was the Last Supper, the first of? (4)

7. Who betrayed Jesus? (5)

9. Pontius ______ (6)

DOWN

1. Jesus said, “It is ________.” (8)

2. What kind of crown was placed on Jesus’ head before he was crucified? (6)

3. The garden where Jesus went to pray before he was arrested. (10)

4. ____ of God. (4)

8. Name of the place where Jesus was crucified. (7)

What to watch during Holy Week:

Place these headings in the Formed search bar.

Last year for the first time, I dedicated our families whole weekend to the Church. We have (generally) always attended the whole Easter Triduum, but this time was different. My boys were serving for all Masses/ Liturgies and we spent quite a bit of time in our Church, planning and practising. It was during the day on Easter Saturday as I sat, the boys being trained on all the extra responsibilities, by our now Bishop Richard, that I felt this immense waiting, other than gaze on the cross and contemplate the empty tabernacle, I didn’t know what to do. I just had a longing for sunset and the Vigil to start. I am not sure any words can describe the intensity of the waiting. So I really enjoyed Holy Saturday with Dr John Sehorn where in the first two minutes he addresses that waiting. Most parishes switch to the Apostle creed during Lent. The line ‘He descended into Hell’ has references in scripture, but what does it mean, what was He doing during that time, and what does it mean for us 2000 years later.

For the kids too! Formed has wonderful engaging

QUIZ:

1. What was the Jewish feast which was being celebrated the week Christ was crucified?

2. Why is the Sunday before the resurrection called Palm Sunday?

3. How did Judas identify Jesus to the Roman soldiers?

4. For a time before He died on the cross, there was darkness in the land, how long did this last for?

5. Name as many as you can from the 7 statements recorded in scripture, that Jesus said from the cross.

6. Who was the first person to see the risen Christ, and who did ‘they’ think He was?

7. Why is the Easter Vigil held at dark on Saturday evening?

8. How long is the Easter Liturgical Season?

resources to watch, at levels suitable for all children. For children 12 and under I would recommend Holy Week & Easter Special | Laugh and Grow Bible for Kids. At first glance it does seem aimed at younger children but it definitely captures the attention of even the older kids. It covers simple questions like what is a covenant, who was present when He died on the Cross.

NURTURING AND SAFEGUARDING THE SACRAMENT OF MARRIAGE

ROBERT GARAN

Engaged couples: build a foundation for a lifelong union; Married couples: here is your chance for a relationship check in.

For several years, the Catholic Diocese of Hamilton had been using the Prepare Enrich programme as our working tool towards building a strong and healthy relationship between soon to be married couples. Thus, we use this tool to give insights for engaged couples based on the couple’s relationship assessment on the different aspects of relationships such as communication, financial management, spiritual beliefs and more. This invites each person to open his or her true approach towards a lifetime relationship with one’s partner. This is a great opportunity, in allowing partners to work on growth areas and

strengthen the positives together more genuinely.

Following Easter, our marriage preparation team will offer the same system to married couples. The aim of this is to enrich their relationships after they themselves have gathered insights from their own experiences of marriage or even parenting. Truly, this is such a wonderful thing to see couples fix the bug that may be causing problems in growing together actively and not just survive the relationship. Trained Enrich facilitators will soon be around our Diocese to keep you company.

Continue picking up our Kete Kōrero for more updates, or you may also want to email: marriage@cdh.org.nz to enquire further.

PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS

Look kindly, we pray, O Lord, on our Diocese. Enkindle in the hearts of many men and women a deep desire to serve you. May they be open to your call to become dedicated holy priests, sisters, brothers and deacons.

Give them courage to overcome their fears and the wisdom to hear your special call for them.

We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.

AMEN