Kete Kōrero
BISHOP RICHARD LAURENSON
As this basket is being published Bishop John Adams and I will be winging our way to Rome, to attend what we call the Baby Bishops course. This will be an opportunity to meet with all the bishops who have been ordained in the last year or so. The Church runs two events at the same time, one for bishops from countries who ‘belong’ to the Dicastery for Evangelisation. (“Propaganda Fide” in old money) which accounts for 25% of the Catholic Population and one-third of the Dioceses in the Catholic World. The other is run by the Congregation of Bishops, which accounts for the rest of the Latin Church. Bishops of the Eastern Catholic Churches do their own thing, some may join us, others will not.
The time Bishop John and I will spend in Rome will allow us to connect to the different Departments that comprise “The Vatican”. One of the other great benefits of this course is to network with the new bishops. Here in the Pacific we have at least 6 new bishops who may be attending the Course this year. The latest, Archbishop Mosese Tui Kolio from Auckland, was ordained in August for the Archdiocese of Samoa-Apia.
It has been 14 years since I lived in Rome, doing my Canon Law Degree. So much will be familiar, much will have changed. I look forward to seeing some of that difference.
We will be spending a couple of days in the Conference Hall of my Alma Mater, the “Università Urbaniana”. When I first arrived there I spotted a couple of trees that had been planted from home. In particular the Purple Ake Ake. I shall look to see if it has survived all these years.
The Infinite Dignity of the Human Person requires us to uphold a Consistent Ethic of Life. If our actions kick against this ethic then they clearly are wrong, and we must change our attitudes. Sometimes this requires us to stand against the prevailing cultural Wisdoms. Many a bad thing gets promoted as a good. Take for example smoking, where in
PHOTO BY DEEARN STRAWBRIDGE
my growing up days it was a ‘good’ to be emulated. Now it is promoted as thoroughly wrong, the truth is actually somewhere in between.
This Kete explores some of the ways we can live and uphold this Consistent Ethic of Life, and I commend those articles to your attention.
Bishop Richard wrote his piece just prior to Bishop Denis’ passing, while we could amend our centre pages in the Kete to include coverage of the funeral, due to tight schedules we could not amend his letter. However Bishop Richard adds:
While we are saddened by his death, we realise that at the end of a long life, this is how it is. Since we believe in the Promise of the Lord Jesus, that his faithful followers will live with him in eternity, the sadness of parting company is tempered by our hope that one day we will see him again and enjoy his company.
BISHOP’S LETTER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
EDITOR’S NOTE
THE MINISTRY AND MISSION OF OUR CATHOLIC DEACONS
SISTER SHEILA O’TOOLE (RNDM 1929 - 2024) THE SPARK OF REVIVAL FAREWELL BISHOP DENIS BROWNE
THE UNFORGOTTEN BABIES: THE BUTTONS PROJECT CHARITABLE TRUST TEAMS OF OUR LADY: TORINO 2024
FAMILY FIRST - A FRIEND INDEED APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN FOR THE ANNUAL COMMON GOOD GRANT DISTRIBUTION
GOD’S HANDS HERE ON EARTH THE PRAYER OF THE POOR RISES UP TO GOD ANNUAL DAY OF PRAYER FOR LIFE KIDS PAGE CDH BULLETIN BOARD
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Michael James Cooney
MNZM 1944 - 2024
GREG SCHMIDT, DIOCESE GENERAL MANAGER
The life of Michael Cooney was celebrated at St Mary’s Immaculate Church Tauranga on Friday 16 August 2024. At the time of his passing he was Chairman of both the Dioceasn Finance Council and the New Zealand Catholic Church Insurance Scheme.
There was a huge turnout for a man who has been a pillar in the greater Tauranga area and beyond for well over fifty years. He was described as a family man, a businessman, a keen and accomplished sportsman, a man of christian faith, and an outstanding community contributor across many areas of society.
Michael’s accomplishments and contributions are too large to list, some include being a Board member and Chairperson of St Mary’s Catholic Primary; Aquinas Catholic College; Tauranga Energy Trust; Trustpower Limited; Hamilton Diocesan Finance Council; NZ Catholic Church Insurance Scheme; and a Director or Trustee of a number of Charities, Private Companies and Trusts. Michael was one of the drivers who grew and enhanced the Cooney Lees Morgan law firm and he was the Tauranga District Coroner for thirty years, which regularly meant visits from the Police at nights and weekends, including the netball courts where he coached and refereed in support of his five daughters.
His brother, Paul, described Michael as the matriarch of the extended family and he routinely followed up with everyone to ensure they were attending special events and the annual Christmas get- together. Michael was able to achieve so much through the love and support of his wife, Sandra, and his daughters and their families. Michael will be fondly remembered by so many, and family members recalled how he spoke about the two most important things in life - being your family and your faith.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
RIP BISHOP DENIS CATIANO PAULO (TRIBUTES CONT. ON PAGE 19)
Bishop Denis was truly a servant of our Lord. Quiet, unassuming, attentive to others needs, welcoming nature and deeply close to our Lord. Manifested in his untiring service to God’s people.
He accepted my application for seminary studies at the Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) in Fiji.
He was the 6th Bishop of Rarotonga, Cook Islands. While there he made it his mission to regularly visit the outer islands by boat. It takes 7 days sail from Rarotonga (the main island) to the northern groups.
Moe wakalelei e ( Rest in Peace) Bishop Denis Browne in the Lord. Amene!
THANK YOU YVONNE FROM THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE SCHOOLS TEAM
From the Catholic Diocese Schools team - thank you for your leadership and many years of dedicated service to Catholic Education.
Yvonne Marshall is looking forward to a super future with no timetables and an empty diary. Principal of St Joseph’s Catholic School since 2013, she has loved every minute of it but this time has now come to an end. Teaching has never been ‘just a job’ and feels privileged and blessed to witness the growth of young learners. She will miss the bright little eyes greeting her each day, and the connections made with their whanau and the community. All the best Yvonne, we are sure your diary won’t stay empty for long!
ST PIUS X, TOKOROA
PARISHIONER FROM ST PIUS X
Having grown up in the parish of St Pius, with my first Holy Communion and Confirmation held here and then married in our church, it is very special to me. After moving away for a few years and then returning to Tokoroa, I count myself very lucky to be part of such a nice parish. On Sundays at Mass, I really enjoy when the anniversaries of past parishioners are read out as it brings back memories and I reflect on those whom I loved that were once active members of our parish. I love to hear the name of my dad and his family, my aunts and uncles and cousins who are no longer with us, and for just a moment I feel their presence here with us at Mass. This part of our Sunday service is special to me as I am sure it is for a lot of other parishioners as well, so I do hope this tradition continues.
PRAISE FOR THE KETE KŌRERO MOIRA KILBRIDE
Hi Kirsty,
Yesterday at Mass the latest copy of Kete Korero was available. I have read it from cover to cover and want to say a big congratulations to you. Well done. Of course the article regarding the Catholic Women’s League Conference was amazing - such great publicity. Also the Terry Scott article was excellent as well. Keep up your good work and God Bless you.
Yours in Faith and Service, Moira Kilbride
CWL Hamilton Diocesan President
EDITOR’S NOTE
As per usual we have a plan in place for the publication of the Kete Kōrero, and the Holy Spirit flows on in, and guides the actual direction and timing. We were ready to go to print the weekend Bishop Denis passed away. We decided to hold it back, and wait until he was laid to rest. Bishop Richard had prepared his brief for the Kete before flying out to a Canon Law conference, with him only back in New Zealand for 24 hours or so before leaving for Rome there wasn’t time to rewrite his bishop’s note. I recommend, if you could not attend the Requiem, to watch it online. The link is on our website, and if you zoom to around 30 minutes in, you will catch the homily. Bishop Richard preached while “channelling his inner Denis,” by remaining seated in the cathedra. His homily on connections is one I am sure we can all relate to, those moments where you know, there are no coincidences, only ‘Godincidences.’ 2207 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church begins “The family is the original cell of social life.” Recently I was listening to ‘secular’ radio, and the host said “you know us millennials, we grow up wanting to have dogs, not kids.” Feeling despondent, it was perfect timing to receive a piece from someone who attended the family first gathering, we appreciate their reflection. The 8th world day of the poor is upon us in November, the week before the Day of Prayer, all parish and diocesan communities will be asked to focus on the needs of the poor in their local area through practical initiatives and by making this effort a priority in their pastoral work. We will include resources online and share widely.
I will finish with the closing from the Cathedral on 6 September, 2024.
“Trusting in God we have prayed together for Bishop Denis, we come now to the last farewell, there is sadness in parting, but we take comfort in the hope that we will one day see Denis again and enjoy his friendship. Although we disperse in sorrow, the mercy of God will gather us together again in the joy of His Kingdom, therefore let us console each other in the faith of Christ Jesus.”
The Ministry and Mission of our Catholic Deacons
KIRSTY MUIR
On the feast day of St Lawrence, 10 August, the permanent deacons from within our diocese, gathered to renew their commitment to the bishop during Mass. The installation of deacons is a profound sacramental act that involves the laying on of hands and the outpouring of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. All of which we can trace back to the beginnings of Christianity.
DEACON GLENN CLUNIE SITS SECOND FROM THE RIGHT IN THE FRONT ROW
Deacons were first introduced in the Acts of the Apostles “You, brothers, must select from among yourselves
seven men of good reputation, filled with the Spirit and with wisdom, to whom we can hand over this duty. We ourselves will continue to devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry (diakonia) of the word ... They presented these (men) to the apostles, and after prayer they laid their hands on them.The word of the Lord continued to spread: the number of disciples in Jerusalem was greatly increased, and a large group of priests made their submission to the faith.” (Acts 6:3-7)
We further learn where the word deacons comes from in the first letter of St Paul to Timothy. The Apostle Paul gives instructions about the qualifications of ‘diakonos’ and their wives. The term ‘diakonos’ is typically translated as ‘deacon,’ which means ‘minister’. With a decline in numbers seen around the 4th century, a restoration was set in motion at the Council of Trent, however this would still only see transitional deacons for another 400 years. Sacrum Diaconatus Ordinem, saw Pope Paul VI explain the general norms for restoring the permanent diaconate in the Latin Church.
The governance of Catholic deacons is defined by both Canon Law and the directives of the bishop.Through both the Homily delivered through the Holy Mass and a roundtable discussion afterwards, Bishop Richard offered insight into what the diaconate should look like for the Hamilton Diocese. Set in motion by Bishop Gaines, the permanent diaconate was officially established by Bishop Browne. The instruction was to be men amongst the poor and go where a priest cannot go or will be ignored, deacons are to be in people’s vision. Bishop Richard summed up their current ministry with a reference to Pope Paul VI “it is so adorned with its own indelible character and its own special grace”
Between Bishop Richard and Reverend Aidan Mullholland, Director of the Diaconate, there was a very clear message. The deacons first vocation is that of their families, there has to be clear communication between themselves and their wives including prayer together. Fr. Aidan suggested the Divine Office night prayers to be prayed together. Wives are an integral part of their ministry, in some sense they are the backbone of support to them, will generally have a word of advice and often they are a great opening to get to know the people in the parishes. St Pope John Paul II said,
the fruitfulness of their ministries “has been made possible by the love and support and collaboration of your wives”.
Glenn Clunie was ordained into the permanent diaconate 15 October 2022 by Bishop Steve Lowe at the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary, alongside Deacon John Marneth-Rust and Deacon Mark Hassett.
How were you called to the diaconate?
I came into the church in my 40s through my wife Lyn. When our previous deacon left to move to Australia, I was then approached by some of the parishioners at my parish of St Patrick’s, Taupo where they asked if I would be interested in becoming a deacon. After approaching Monsignor Trevor to get his opinion and also discussing it with my wife, and after much praying, I put my name forward to be considered. I was accepted onto the diaconate formation programme in 2018 and after four years, including six papers through Te Kupenga (Certificate in Christian Ministry Level 5), I was ordained a permanent deacon for the Hamilton Diocese.
Can you tell us what your ministry looks like for your parish including how you balance your first vocation - family?
I assist my parish priest at Mass every Sunday, which includes setting the altar and making sure all the ministers for the Mass are present, among other things; and once a month I’m asked to give the homily. I also conduct baptisms, if they are not part of our Sunday Mass, I’m part of our Parish leadership team which meets twice a month, and I am on the inter-church welfare society committee, which runs the op shop in Taupo and distributes grants to those in need. I’m part of our faith formation team, which runs all our sacramental programmes, including baptism, confirmation/holy communion, RCIA, and other adult formation programs, including Alpha, Following Christ, and Foundations. The hardest part is trying to find the right work; marriage/family; and diaconate balance, especially when I work 45-50 hrs a week in my full-time job as a greenskeeper. It’s knowing when to say no to stuff that others may be able to do, to know when to delegate which can be quite tricky sometimes. I also make sure that there is enough quality time with my wife, taking time away with her and letting her know what’s happening each week, so we can
make plans to have time together.
You have been asked to preach on a particular parable, which one is ‘the one’?
If there were one Gospel passage I would love to preach on, it would be Matthew 20:1-16, “The workers in the vineyard.” Coming into the church in my forties, it reminds me that God’s reward is the same for everyone, whether you were raised Catholic or become one on your deathbed, if you believe in the Lord our God and His only Son, Jesus, ask for his forgiveness, He will grant you eternal life with Him, (He will always go after the one lost sheep.)
What are you reading at the moment?
At the moment I’m reading Thomas Merton’s The Seven Storied Mountain and Elizabeth, the Queen by Alison Weir, well that’s if I get the time.
Any Final Words?
For me the most rewarding thing is helping at the Sunday Mass, It is a privilege to be in the sanctuary and to assist our priest at Mass, and also our sacramental/formation programmes, (Trying to help others, especially adults, find the joy of allowing God to come into their lives.)
Being a deacon means being a servant of the Lord, and I can’t think of anything I would rather be doing, to help serve the Lord and His people, in any way He chooses me to serve.
Tony Frogley was ordained into the permanent diaconate in May 2008 at St Columba’s Frankton.
How were you called to the diaconate?
It was early 2004 that Fr Michael Gielen, then parish priest of St Columba in Frankton called to ask if I would give some thought to applying to join the Permanent Diaconate Programme that was about to be commenced in the Hamilton Diocese. I remember very little of what he said other than “it would involve pretty much of what I’m already doing now.” With these or similar words of encouragement, along with those of other important people in my life, I put
my name forward for discernment.
The decision to take a step forward toward the diaconate, did not cause me any apprehension or trepidation but rather, I felt a sense of peace, about it all.
I was delighted to learn that two other fellows from the parish had also said ‘yes’ to putting themselves forward – Lou Zampese and Bill Wells. Shortly after, we heard that Leon Finn from St Peter’s in Cambridge had done the same. All four of us were subsequently accepted into the programme.
There began a period of fairly intense spiritual, academic and pastoral formation. Fast forward four years later where each of us were ordained deacons to the permanent diaconate, in our own parish.
Can you tell us what your ministry looks like for your parish including how you balance your first vocation - family?
As permanent deacons, we are responsible to the bishop from whom we receive our faculties to perform as deacons. At parish level, we are there to support our parish priest in any way we can. There are essentially three areas however where the deacon cannot assist – pray the Mass (we cannot consecrate), hear confessions (we cannot absolve sins), anoint, (we cannot give anointing to the sick, perform last rights).
A deacon’s functions involve assisting at Mass including homilies, Liturgy of the Word with Holy Communion, Baptisms, Christian/mixed weddings (we are registered celebrants), Funeral Services, Columbarium (internment)
Services, Communion to the Sick, Catechetics, e.g. Alpha, RCIA programmes. I am currently involved with RCIA at our parish.
For the deacon, there is a special commitment to praying the Divine Office each morning and evening. In addition, attend daily Mass as often as is practicable. Our routine during weekdays at St Columba, is to gather each morning at 8am for Rosary followed shortly after with the Divine Office. Then a time of quiet before Mass begins at 9am.
A snapshot of my duties for one recent Sunday involved assisting at the altar and presenting the homily for three Masses (Vigil at Holy Name, Raglan; and the two Sunday Masses at St Columba). Later that day I have a baptism to perform, one of many infant and pre-school baptisms myself and my colleagues have had the joy of performing over the 16 years we have been deacons.
In regards to the ‘balancing act’ I was going to put, ‘no comment’ as sometimes life happens in the midst of other plans in regard to family, but I have got much better in later years to put my immediate family first. As far as work/life balance goes, I am pleased to say that I am retired so this doesn’t come into the equation however other ministries have tended to fill the gaps. I am also a singer/musician and for many years have committed to playing at our two Sunday Masses once a month, but can be called upon not infrequently to fill a gap which can stretch the balance. I enjoy parish visitation, spending time with our parishioners, particularly those on their own. As with the other deacons, there are ministries outside of the parish I am involved in. For me, I provide a Church Service at a local rest home followed by a Sing-a-long once a month, and I am also a voluntary chaplain at Waikato Hospital, assigned to
particular wards once a week.
You have been asked to preach on a particular parable, which one is ‘the one’?
My most favourite disciple is Peter. So human, fallible and such a heart for Jesus, always willing to speak up and step out and, not withstanding his faults and failings, it all proved to be the training ground for the role Jesus was to appoint him to.
So not surprisingly, for me, it is John 21:15-17, one of the most heartfelt exchanges between Jesus and Peter.
What are you reading at the moment?
Informal reading, shall we say, I don’t do much of, but in the last couple of weeks I’ve picked up a book called Open Me the Gates by Barbara Dent, a convert to the Catholic Faith. In the first chapter she remarked, “I discovered Christianity several years before I discovered Catholicism.” That got my attention. It looks to be a very insightful read.
Any Final Words?
There is such joy in being involved in the community and having the opportunity of sharing the Christian faith with others in and outside of the Church. At times I suffer from a sense of inadequacy, or I might simply be tired. However, when the people gather, whether it’s to celebrate a sacrament or preside in other areas of ministry, I find that the Spirit lifts me to the task and afterwards, I feel, well it’s hard to explain, but blessed I think covers it.
Sister Sheila O’Toole RNDM
1929 - 2024
SR ANNE SKLENARS, SALLY MORRISON AND KIRSTY MUIR
Sister Anne Sklenars (RNDM) shares an obituary, added are reflections from a close friend Sally Morrison (MNZM) and representations from the editor using Sr Sheila’s book “Behind the Visor”. Sister Sheila’s book details her time in Vietnam and being held in a prisoner of war camp. She was one of the last people to depart the US Embassy at the fall of Saigon and is the most decorated New Zealander in relation to Vietnam.
One of our Mission Sisters, Sister Sheila, died peacefully in Atawhai Assisi, on June 10. She had been a Sister of Our Lady of the Missions for 74 years. Sheila inherited a strong faith from her immigrant Irish parents, along with a love of the land, of nature, and animals, growing up to be a very outdoor kind of person. A keen sportswoman, a representative player in basketball at both primary and secondary school. She was sports captain at Sacred Heart College, in Hamilton in the 1940s.
As a child Sheila helped her Dad milk the house cow and feed the calves, with a dog as a constant companion. Sheila managed to find a dog as a companion in all her missions! You will pick this up when you read her book, and a dog wasn’t the only pet she found to look after! She
was a daily Mass goer and this surely nurtured the great spirit of faith and generosity that was to characterise
Sheila’s life. Having been taught by the Mission Sisters, Sheila’s desire to be a Sister grew and she made her first profession in 1950.
Sheila taught primary school -aged children in New Sheila "Sister Mary Lawrence" O'Toole
Plymouth, Opotiki, Pukekohe, Huntly and Hamilton. Her students loved her and were inspired by her love of life and nature and would try their hand at building things with her. She had always been interested in tools and carpentry and in her spare time would make shelves and furniture and see to any repairs the Convent needed. These acquired skills would serve her well in the coming years.
In 1969 (the Vietnam War still raging) Sheila volunteered for a Mission in South Vietnam with fellow Sisters. This was the beginning of an extraordinary six years of working in Phuoc Long with the Montagnard people, a vulnerable tribal group of people in Vietnam, Sheila taught the men how to make furniture in the workshop they had built. In early 1974 the Sisters and people were forced to flee their village trekking through the jungle to safety. If bullets flying close enough to feel; being surrounded by death; seeing villages destroyed; knowing how close by they were to other people just by the stench of their wounds; and encounters with leeches were not enough, before reaching safety, our three Sisters were captured by the Vietcong and remained prisoners for several weeks before being set free.
She mentions having most of her possessions taken off her, she did manage to get two items returned during the imprisonment - her watch and her prayer book. She writes, “In the Office were my only spiritual helps for each day. There was always a special message that fitted in with what was happening and gave courage and consolation in the fact that we were not alone but God was with us in a very tangible way on this weird journey.”
A few months later, with the fall of Saigon, Sheila and Dot returned home. However, Sheila wasn’t one to stay put for long. At the end of 1975 Sheila left for our mission in Samoa, with the experiences of Vietnam lingering within. This time spent in the bush gave her time for reflection, so she was grateful for the opportunity of spiritual renewal and retreat that the Congregation offered her.
1992 brought Sheila the opportunity to return to Vietnam through the Volunteer Service Abroad programme. Sheila returned firstly to teach English to students, then move down to Thu Duc where she lived on the compound with our Sisters.
It was around this time, Sally Morrison, a rotarian, was on her way to a breakfast meeting, where she bumped into a young man named Lawrence O’Toole. Sally loved history and found war fascinating, so naturally the topic came up, giving Lawerence a chance to mention his Auntie Sheila who was on mission in Vietnam. Sally was a theatre nurse and between this above conversation and another nurse who had just returned, Sally decided to go and track Sheila down. No easy task, she was dropped off in a village and headed in the direction of what looked to be a Catholic Church. Still not sure she was in the right place, it was not long before a woman in ‘virtual rags’ came flying down the stoney road on a motorbike. It was here on the side of the road, surrounded by poverty, that Sally met the person who she still believes is the most honest, humble and quite
simply, the best person she has ever met.
Truly inspired by Sheila, Sally left on a three-quarters of a day trip, to Ben San, a high walled, barbed-wire arm guarded Leprosy Compound. As soon as she saw what Sheila was showing her, Sally knew she would be back. Sally went back to her Rotary group and got support to go back seven times over the next 14 years. Something she never would have done without the gentle guidance of Sheila. She could teach the nursing staff, installed hot water connections through solar heating and with connections to Comvita NZ, over $150,000 worth of product was shipped and used to heal at Ben San. All thanks to Sheila’s introduction.
Sally says that while she is not Catholic, wow did she
pray and it was Sheila’s influence that she did so. Ever so gently and quietly so, Sheila wouldn’t instruct someone beyond their understanding but through Sheila’s prayer, Sally learnt to trust in God. Sometimes at her wits end with the degree of wounds some people were enduring, she vividly remembers through prayer, God showing her a memory from her clinic days in New Zealand, two Māori nurses had demonstrated Rongoā Māori in use with similar wounds. She ended up treating, successfully, one of her more dire patients with a traditional tea compress. Sally commented there is no way she would have achieved all she did without Sheila, also one of the bravest people she has ever known.
In 2004, Sheila left Vietnam for the last time. While reading her book you will be transported straight into her life in
Vietnam. The amount of photographs she took, particularly for the era, was incredible. You can see her grow in maturity as a panicked Sr Sheila loses her passport as she first touches down in Vietnam, to near the end of her stay where she very confidently settled any Visa issues. From writing home asking her Mum to send over any books on baby rearing as she left with infants families were unable to care for, to helping establish a centre to assist former prostitutes out of sex work in Ho Chi Minh City, which then expanded to housing unwed expectant mothers shunned by their families.
In her author’s note for her book, she wrote “…It is in my hope and strong desire that you will realise that the story is not so much an account about what we did ourselves, but it is more truly about the incredible love that God has shown us as He journeyed step by step with us during those dark days.”
On returning to New Zealand, while in the Morrinsville community, she involved herself in the town community services, such as driving people to hospital appointments
and volunteering with hospice, finding time to write her memoirs, while beginning to negotiate the challenges of growing old. While Sheila suffered ill health and accidents time and time again, we witnessed that zest for life, clinging on to squeeze the most out of life.
In all Sheila’s missions her goal was to bring about the reign of God: justice, peace and dignity. People mattered to Sheila, and she took dangerous roads to be with them. Just as Mary did when she visited her cousin Elizabeth, and just as Jesus did, which led to his crucifixion.
With St Paul, and at age 94, Sheila could say, “I have fought the good fight to the end.”
When leaving Vietnam, Sheila said, “So as the date of departure approached I thanked God for all that had been, I prepared to say “Yes” to all that will be, in the sure knowledge that there is a loving God whose light will overcome the darkness.”
SISTERS OF OUR LADY OF THE MISSIONS
2024 MISSION APPEAL
The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions in the third millennium. Today the Congregation perhaps looks very different from that founded one hundred and fifty years ago in Lyon. Most strikingly obvious is the multicultural nature of the groups with literally all the continents of the world represented. A second important characteristic is the on-going enthusiasm for new missions. This has led the RNDMs today to be involved with other religious congregations in SSS (Solidarity with South Sudan) to help the people of South Sudan. New foundations have been established recently in Laos, Orissa (India) and Thailand (Ranong). in Taiwan. The Mission Sisters have been in the Hamilton Diocese for over 100 years and have taught in many of the Parish schools that continue to exist today. Maybe you have had contact with the Mission Sisters in your time. In order for us to continue our Missionary endeavour, we need the help of our Partners in Mission – YOU! Please give generously to our two projects: Literacy Programme in India Central and Nutrition Programme in Senegal – Africa. These are closely
linked to the Sustainable Development Goals that are the responsibility of us all.
DONATING TO THE RNDM MISSION APPEAL:
Internet Banking:
Account Number: 06-0529-0413665-03
Account Name: Institute de Notre Dame des Missions
Particulars: MA2024
Code: Surname Ref: Phone number
office@rndm.org.nz (+64) 04 939 1231, option 1
With grateful thanks for your kind donation.
Charity number: CC 20516
THE SPARK OF REVIVAL
TAILA BURTON-GOLLOP
The National Eucharistic Revival is a three-year initiative sponsored by the Bishops of the United States to inspire and prepare the People of God to be formed, healed, converted, united, and sent out to a hurting and hungry world through a renewed encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist – the source and summit of our Catholic faith. Leading into the third year, The National Eucharistic Congress (NEC) was held, with 60,000 in attendance. Taila Burton-Gollop was accepted to be a photographer for the official media team.
What an incredible honour and blessing it was to not only attend this event, but to serve at it - God is so good. I spent the majority of my time at the NEC in a state of gratitude and awe. I could spend my entire reflection dropping
As someone who has a foot in each camp of Catholic faith expression, traditional and charismatic, every evening at the congress I saw examples of both and everything in bombshell quotes that made me audibly gasp during the keynotes - that’s how hard they hit me. I could talk about every single speaker, but you can watch them all online. However, Fr Mike Schmitz’s talk changed the way I look at Mass, and I will forever be grateful for that. He hit us with some powerful quotes on sin, but he didn’t leave us hanging there and thankfully, we don’t have to be stuck there. He went on to speak about the Mass in a way that I had not heard before, and it changed me in the most beautiful way. Fr Mike explained that the point of the Mass is not the presence of Jesus. It’s important of course, but it’s the presence of Jesus that makes the point possible. The point of the Mass - is the sacrifice. What saves us is the sacrifice of the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus to the Father, in humble obedience. He said, “That happens in the moment where the priest holds the Body of Christ and the Blood of Christ in his hands and says,
‘Through him, and with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honour is yours, forever and ever.’ That moment is the moment where Jesus on the cross says, ‘Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.’” How incredible is it for us to realise that when the Eucharist is lifted up by the priest, we are looking at Calvary. We are looking at Jesus himself as he commends his spirit to the Father. We are participating in the sacrifice. The redemption of the World, every single time you go to Mass. In that moment, the Father is glorified, the world is sanctified, and it is being renewed.
between. I was surprised at how at home I felt in a city so far away. I saw lay people lying prostrate in front of the Lord, Franciscan Friars with their arms above their heads in full extension and singing along with the band, parents dancing and singing praise with their infants in their arms, everyone glorifying Jesus together, in whichever way they felt closest to Him. Talks and sessions throughout the day catered to different ages, cultures, interests in different locations. The evenings consisted of one session held for all 60,000 people in the same place - Lucas Oil Stadium. These sessions consisted of talks from a multitude of amazing individuals, ranging from religious to lay people, even the parents of a Servant of God. Every evening session culminated with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, with Benediction from a different priest, bishop or cardinal each night. It was indescribable being in that room, with every person there having an encounter with the Lord, whether it was during time being led in the most beautiful Gregorian chants by Floriani; the men’s choral group formed by four Thomas Aquinas College alumni; Matt Maher leading us in praise, or during the silence. Fr Boniface Hicks led the most beautiful Litany of Healing and Repentance - and I found out after returning to NZ that miraculous healings did indeed occur.
“A sin is not ‘I made a mistake’ or ‘I broke a rule.’ A sin is “God I know what you wantI don’t care. I want what I want… Not that I didn’t know, I just didn’t care.”
FR MIKE SCHMITZ
The reverence was there, and was displayed in every way imaginable. If you saw this event on a livestream, I can understand how it could look extravagant, performative even - but that space was anointed. It was holy ground. I often suffer from anxiety and overstimulation, but I never felt overwhelmed when Jesus was in the room. Whether I was sitting at His feet, straining my eyes from the nosebleed seats, or watching Him through the camera lens; He was with me, within me, and holding me.
Coming home was difficult, and in the week following I felt like I went through a grieving process with the experience being over. Like how I imagine Peter, James and John must have felt after witnessing the Transfiguration of Jesus on Mount Tabor, I wanted to pitch a tent and live on that mountain top. But descending the mountain had to be done; like the disciples, we have a mission to continue.
The next phase of the Eucharistic Revival is to “Go Forth!”, and for us to live out of our Eucharistic encounters with Jesus and be credible witnesses to the joy of the Gospel. The “Walk with One” initiative has been created to be a personal approach to evangelisation, and for us to be an instrument in the life of someone we know and love, and accompany them on their journey to knowing Jesus and his true presence in the Eucharist.
I encourage you to spend 30-60 minutes in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This is something I already try to practise at least once a week. It can be easy to turn up, sit there, zone out, and not spend real, intentional and quality time with the Lord. But I am feeling a renewed fire for it these days, and it makes my prayer time so much more powerful.
A key message from the revival is the Jesus that was present in the huge monstrance in front of myself and the huge amount of other Catholics, is the SAME Jesus who is present to us in our churches here in New Zealand. In our tabernacles, in our Masses, in our monstrances. And He is waiting to meet you there.
As Jonathan Roumie said “if you don’t want the Eucharist, you don’t want Jesus...”
I want Jesus. And He wants you too.
Bishop Denis Browne DD (CNZM)
1937 - 2024
Denis George Browne DD (CNZM) emeritus bishop of Hamilton, New Zealand, passed away peacefully on Sunday 1 September 2024 at the age of 86. Browne dedicated his life to serving God in the Catholic Church. He began his journey of service working in various parishes across New Zealand. He then spent time in Tonga in order to learn the language and return to New Zealand to become chaplain for the Tongan Community. However before he could return to New Zealand he was appointed bishop of Rarotonga by Pope Paul VI on March 21 1977.
Important dates:
21 September 1937
30 June 1962
21 March 1977
29 June 1977
6 June 1983
12 December 1994
30 June 2012
22 November 2015
1 September 2024
Born
Ordained Priest
Appointed Bishop of Rarotonga
Ordained Bishop
Appointed Tenth Bishop of Auckland
Appointed Second Bishop of Hamilton (succeeded by Stephen Lowe, on February 13 2015)
Celebrated Double Jubilee, 50 years of priesthood, 35 years a bishop
Retired as Bishop of Hamilton Died
In recognition of his contributions to the community, Browne was awarded the New Zealand 1990 Commemoration Medal, a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to the community and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Waikato in 2016.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
Colleen Graham was secretary for Bishop Denis for ten years. Together with her husband Kevin, they remained dear friends with Denis until his passing. Colleen wrote an Ode to Bishop Denis for his 50th Jubilee and shares that with us now, with a special addendum in memoriam.
Ode to Bishop Denis
Now after 50 years of ministry and shepherding his sheep, Our Bishop has reached a stage where he’s come to the end of his keep. And what a sacrificial ministry of love and service it has been, Where losing his cool and ruffling his feathers is something yet to be seen.
But “the eyes having it,” as they say, have been the only perception, I know that when his eyes widen, the Bishop has taken exception. So over the years of working for him, my discernment has grown keener, I’ve learned the wider the eyes go, the bigger the misdemeanour.
A ‘no’ is a ‘no’ and there is no shifting, The decision’s been made after all the sifting. Performs the role of ‘Bishop’ decked out in mitre and robe, But also the everyday bloke, with buddies all over the globe.
He’s fiercely independent, dislikes any fussing about, Believes in giving time to heal, and letting prayer work things out. I’d say of all his attributes, there’s one that stands out most, As many of you have enjoyed his being “the perfect host.”
Bishop loves to entertain, enjoying banter and cheer, Catering being a challenge, final numbers never clear. “Won’t you join us?” has been heard somewhere in the course of the day, He’d have invited extras he’d encountered along the way.
We’re here to bless the people, ensuring that they’re treated, His motto ‘the more the merrier,’ round the table they’re seated. Bishop, we know you’ll continue in this, as you “kick back” and reflect, On the places you’ve been, the things you’ve done and people you have met.
May you have more time for friends and golfing rounds be plenty, We’ll look forward to hearing that your handicap’s nearer twenty. We’d say you must feel a sense of achievement, indeed, For all that has been accomplished, of which you’ve sown the seed.
We have been blessed to know this gentle servant of the Lord, The love that has touched so many, the lives that have been restored. God bless you, Bishop Denis, for all you are and all your life has held to date, From here, in the words you say to us: “May you continue to celebrate....”
Addendum:
Well celebrate we did, for well over a decade Places we’ve been, people we’ve met, memories we have made. We’ll treasure our times together, there’ll always be stories to tell You’ve been an inspiration to us, of a life that was lived so well. And now you’ve gone to be with the Lord, the Person you love the most. We’ll think of you with love, and again and again we’ll toast.
Rest in peace Bishop Denis.
Farewell Bishop Denis
Anglican Bishop, Sir David John Moxon, shared a most sincere Eulogy prior to the opening of the Requiem Mass for Bishop Denis Browne. An extraordinary orator, he stated it was a great privilege to be invited by the family and the Diocese to speak at the final farewell of “an old and dear friend, Denis George Brown, Bishop, a true successor of the apostles.”
He described the Browne household as a large, warm open catholic family home, one where religious and clergy often gathered, and how clearly, this warm hearth glow, shaped the hospitality in Christ. All of his siblings ordered life in sacramental and vocational ways. Denis was a warm, prayerful, and kind man who spent a lot of time with the people. He had a good memory for names,
flowed over the past week, are consistent with the man he knew for over 30 years, 17 of those as Bishops relating to each other across Te Awa o Waikato, the Waikato River. An Ecumenical partnership, the two would use Bridge Street as a symbol for the bridge we are called to build in the 1995 JPII Ut Unum Sint.
A light laughter echoed through the Cathedral as Bishop David shared a memory of a shared Catholic written liturgy the two celebrated. The Rubrix had a ‘reflection’ with David’s name next to it, and unbeknownst to him, it was meant to be the Homily. In the Anglican liturgy this Rubrix would indicate silence, so David introduced a full five minutes silence. Bishop Denis responded at the end of the five minutes to say, “I was deeply moved by what he (David) did not actually say, I gained a lot from not hearing him speak to us.” Sir David said Bishop Denis “only brought it up for at least 10 years.” This was before he let us know that the two of them were often referred to as ‘Dad and Dave from Snake Gully.’
As he started to wrap up his Eulogy, he reminded us that Bishop Denis was sent to lead by example in the total ministry and mission of the church as Christ’s Shepherd. Anointed to heal and reconcile, uphold justice, and strive for peace and unity and encourage obedience to God’s word. To keep true to, and teach and proclaim the faith. He did not allow burdens and anxieties to blunt purpose or to cloud vision, he was pure in heart to be Christ’s servant. “This vision of God enlightened in a viable and tangible way, we felt it when we were with you, Denis. God’s people and places, not forgetting his love for golf, horses and entertaining. Over the years and seasons the grain ran true, the heartwood centre of his Soul. His Spirituality can be compared to the steady warm glow of the hearth of the home that was influenced by his early years. His warmth and steadiness was always the same whether inside the Church or beyond. Wise, knowing, down to earth and humble, not too many bells and whistles was another way in which Moxon described Browne. He summed this up by saying that the observations of all the messages and memories that have
continuing call sustained your walk with Christ and kept you joyful.”
An emotional Bishop Moxon concluded by saying “Well done thou good and faithful servant, Oh God, whose mercies and compassion cannot be numbered, accept our prayers on behalf of the soul of the servant departed and grant unto him an entrance into the land of light and joy in the fellowship of saints, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
In a Te Reo lament, Bishop Moxon turned to his brother Bishop’s coffin with his final matatangitangi. Bishop Moxon wished Pīhopa Denis to lovingly now ‘rest in peace’ with Our God, Our Savior and Our Lord. Pīopha Denis’ work on earth is now done.
Farewell comments from our Facebook page:
Remembering the wonderful camaraderie between Bishop Denis and the teachers of the Hamilton Diocese especially the ‘Ask The Bishop’ sessions at the many Principals DRS conferences over the years. May he rest in peace. - Rosemary
Mihi aroha ki to whanau Pihopa kia okioki i runga i te rangimarie me. Mā te Atua e manaaki. - Jillian
RIP Bishop Denis Browne…Fond memories of him playing golf and being a great supporter of the Catholic Women’s League in the Hamilton Diocese. - Teresa
I will always remember the beautiful scent of the Bishop’s mercy and kindness. You are true gentleman. Rest in peace Bishop Denis. - Yongi
A special thank you to Ana-Maria Funeral Services, for going above and beyond for the funeral of Bishop Denis.
PHOTOS
THE UNFORGOTTEN BABIES
THE BUTTONS PROJECT CHARITABLE TRUST
MARINA YOUNG
mental wellbeing. We wonder who can I reach out to? Who will truly understand what I am going through? Many post-abortive women and men struggle alone with their pain, waiting for the right person to hear their story. Someone who will not condemn them or minimise what has happened.
For years, I have held onto a Bible verse that is the foundation of the Buttons Project: Proverbs 31:8
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” This verse resonates with me because of certain experiences in my life and family, and one significant choice we made 38 years ago. In October 1986, we had an abortion. The unspoken grief of abortion can often be the elephant in the room, and many suffer in silence. From my own experience, you can feel a void within, and your heart grieves, but you can’t talk about or share your pain with others because it is considered unacceptable. This suppression can affect our physical and Sometimes, life takes us to unexpected places, and in those places, God writes a story we never imagined would be ours. Peter and I founded the Buttons Project in 2008 to help towards healing from abortion. This initiative was born from our own abortion experience and subsequent journey of healing. It is run voluntarily.
In the past, my grief over my abortion was overwhelming. However, over time, as I acknowledged the loss, gave myself a safe place to grieve, and embarked on a journey of healing, I eventually found hope, forgiveness, peace, and acceptance. Healing takes time, and everyone heals at their own pace. The loss and experience don’t go away, but slowly, life begins to grow bigger around it. Through counselling, peer support, or recovery programmes, we can learn to navigate our grief and memories and gain helpful coping skills.
People say that time heals all wounds, but I believe that time alone doesn’t heal all wounds. It’s what you do with the time that heals wounds. Though some scars will remain in place of the open wound.
The Buttons Project provides a platform for people affected by abortion, not only women but also fathers, grandparents, and siblings, to take a step towards healing by sending in buttons and a message. Each button represents a baby we have not met, and we are creating a memorial for these precious buttons. A safe place to visit without judgement. “What happened mattered; it’s a way to remember, grieve, and love.”
We have received thousands of physical buttons, and many virtual buttons submitted to our Virtual Buttons Memorial, which has gained international momentum. Why a button? It is easy to find and send. It can be unique, representing a personal loss. It can symbolise closure or security.
Buttons are long-lasting, though fabric may fade or tear. Buttons join; buttons bring together. We are not alone.
The Buttons Project has evolved over the years to provide more, including facilitating Post Abortion Recovery programmes for men and women, online support groups, speaking opportunities,
PHOTO SUPPLIED: MARINA AND PETER, FOUNDERS OF THE BUTTONS PROJECT
Infinite Dignity
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.”
PROVERBS 31:8
sharing our story with various groups, networking with pregnancy centres and counsellors, and raising awareness.
Buttons Project Singapore began in June 2017, and Buttons Project Australia is launching in September 2024. We continue to connect and help others internationally. Whether meeting someone one-on-one or in a group, we aim to provide a safe avenue for women and men to find strength and hope as we journey together on this path of healing and restoration. We have included more resources for men who have been hurt by abortion, who are often forgotten, and continue to build on this.
Our Vision is to provide mental, emotional, and spiritual healing to any person who has been affected by abortion, whether that be the mother, father or other persons.
Our mission statement is to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental, and genuine care for women and men seeking healing for dealing with abortion grief or regret. Abortion affects people from all backgrounds, cultures and walks of life and we are all able to respond. Whether you are a counsellor, Mental Health Worker, Youth Worker, in the medical field, Church, Pastoral Care Worker, or anyone else, you are likely to come across someone who has had an abortion and may be struggling.
In collaboration with Carolina Gnad, a counsellor and trainer with Dawning’s, we are facilitating some online Post Abortion Support Training in October 2024. This is for anyone who would like to learn more about better responding to a person’s needs, who may be struggling with issues of distress, grief, or trauma after an abortion.
To read more about our story and resources available, please check out our website www.buttonsproject.org.
If you would like to connect or are interested in training, please email marina@buttonsproject.org. We would love to hear from you.
Teams of Our Lady Torino 2024
In July, three representatives from New Zealand attended the 13th International Gathering held in Torino, Italy. Jan and Tony Baker, Parishioners of All Saints by the Sea, are the current New Zealand Leader couple for Teams of Our Lady in Oceania. Joining them was Bishop Steve Lowe of Auckland (previous Bishop of the Hamilton Diocese). Oceania, which includes New Zealand; Australia; Philippines; and East Timor, was also represented by 29 Australians including two priests. Jan and Tony share a reflection on the event and what Teams of Our Lady strives to achieve.
Teams of Our Lady is the largest lay married couples movement within the Catholic Church and covers
the globe. It was founded in Italy by Fr Henri Caffarel, whose cause for canonisation has been submitted to the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints. He wanted couples to enthusiastically live the greatness of the Sacrament of Marriage, and to show that priests and couples are called to live a vocation of love together.
The event (occurring once every six years) was attended by 8000 people, including 400 priests/bishops from around the world. It was held over a period of five days in an Olympic stadium at the Inalpi Arena, Torino. The main theme was following the scripture found in Luke’s Gospel, which covers the journey of two disciples on the road to Emmaus. There were daily reflections on topics of Fragility, Enlightenment, Offer, Communion and Sending, which included couple testimonies and keynote speakers. There was celebration of daily Mass, with Bishop Steve as the main celebrant on the Wednesday.
Teams of Our Lady currently has five active Teams in New Zealand (Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga/Mt Maunganui) and there is soon to be an outreach to Christchurch.
JAN AND TONY BAKER
PART OF THE OCEANIA GROUP THAT WERE IN ATTENDANCE, INCLUDING BISHOP STEVE, AUCKLAND; YOUNG PRIEST FR JACKSON SAUNDERS; AND RELIGIOUS CANOSSIAN SISTER JUCELINA BOTH FROM AUSTRALIA.
BISHOP STEVE LOWE CELEBRATES MASS IN TURIN
The objective of Teams is quite simple - to help ordinary married couples to live their sacrament of marriage in all its fullness, so they are well equipped to step out to be active members of the wider Church.
Couples meet regularly to pray, reflect on topics, share in a meal and fellowship. Priests and religious are encouraged to be part of a Team group and share the journey of married spirituality and vocation to priesthood/religious life.
Every month, more than 150,000 Catholics meet in small groups in the home in more than 90 countries. This includes over 10,000 bishops, priests and religious who provide support as spiritual advisors and guides.
If you would like to know more about Teams of Our Lady please contact Jan and Tony Baker: homeofbakers@gmail.com
TONY AND JAN BAKER CARRY THE NEW ZEALAND FLAG FOR THE OPENING CEREMONY
Family First – a friend indeed
RICHARD TURNBALL
Richard Turnball is a previous contributor to Kete Kōrero and parishioner of St Pius X, Melville, he recently attended the Annual Family Forum hosted by Family First. Family first believe that strong families are the foundation for a strong nation. There are many issues and events that are destabilising the kiwi family, so believe these need to be identified and resolved so that our social foundations are strengthened not weakened. Family First is NOT a political party and has no intention to be one. Their role is to be a voice for families in the public domain, and to research and advocate for family and marriage issues. They fight for the soul of New Zealand.
Afriend said to me the other day that Catholics need all the help they can get in a hostile, secular world. True enough. And we have help - Family First. Having attended their 16th annual Family Forum recently, an all day affair held in South Auckland, I can tell you, you could not wish for a better ally. Family First is a Christian conservative lobby group that advocates for families, marriage, freedom of speech and the value of life. Until recently it was a charity but lost that status in 2022 when the Supreme Court ruled (among other things) that “supporting the family and marriage is not a purpose beneficial to the community…” and that the values promoted by Family First threaten “the cohesiveness of our pluralistic society and disempowers the receiver by failing fairly to inform them of alternative viewpoints.”
I confess that lacking the wisdom of a Supreme Court judge, I had always thought that Marriage and families do benefit society. But what, I’m sure you’re keen to discover, are the values that threaten society? A brief consultation of Family First’s website reveals the following, by no means exhaustive, list: opposition to abortion;euthanasia; same sex marriage; the teaching of gender theory at school, defence of freedom of speech and of the right to therapy and counselling for people experiencing gender dysphoria. You may well wonder why the Supreme Court views the expression of such values as harmful. What does it mean, for instance, to claim that they ‘disempower’ those who take an opposite view, other than that only one view should be permitted? And what is ‘cohesive pluralism’ but a specious cloak for social conformity? It reminds me of Huxley’s negative
utopia, Brave New World, where social engineering has completely replaced the family and harmless happiness
pills can be popped the moment anything disturbs the dull peneplain of social conformity.
Family First produces pithy fact sheets on a huge range of issues, such as the ones listed above, and many of these are based on much longer research papers such as Why Fathers Matter, 2018; Children Transitioning, 2018; Marriage, 2009. All these are available on their website. There are also scores of topical media releases such as one on banning puberty blockers and another on Pride week in schools; and there are podcasts and a weekly McBlog which can be viewed on youtube, in which the lobby group’s founder, Bob McCoskrie, addresses these issues.
What does this mean for Catholics? It means you can arm yourself with good research, persuasive facts and solid arguments. Did you know, for example, that if your school decides to celebrate Pride week you can take your child on a week-long learning field trip, for which they even supply a sample letter, and it’s perfectly legal. So, if you feel in need of a Christian ally in the culture wars, please check out Family First. I think you’ll find it time well spent.
www.familyfirst.org.nz
APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN FOR THE ANNUAL COMMON GOOD GRANT DISTRIBUTION
Kia ora, I’m Caroline Collie; newly appointed Executive Officer of the Common Good Foundation (CGF)
– formerly known as the Catholic Care Foundation. I’m originally from the King Country but now reside in Hamilton with my husband Sam and our 9-month-old son, Gabriel. Prior to this role, I’ve worked at a public policy think tank and as a teacher at Sacred Heart Girls College, Hamilton.
Last year on World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis said “Let us think, then, of all those material, cultural and spiritual forms of poverty that exist in our world... of the forgotten poor whose cry of pain goes unheard in the generalised indifference of a bustling and distracted society…”; In response to this, the CGF is able to translate powerful ideas into action, its foundation rests on Christian anthropology (valuing the dignity of every individual) and we recognise the impact of locally led, whānau-centred projects. We are calling attention to the varied forms of poverty right here in Aotearoa and providing a way for people to support excellent initiatives that reach those in need.
CAROLINE COLLIE, EXECUTIVE OFFICER FOR COMMON GOOD
Our main function is distributing donated funds. Donors contribute through various channels, including Caring Sunday, one-off donations, the calf rearing scheme, and bequests. In September, the funding application process begins, with successful recipients receiving grants ranging from $1500 to $10,000 by November.
We invite parishes and organisations within our Hamilton Diocese to apply before the closing date of September 30th.
If you are interested but not sure of the process or criteria please get in touch.
A huge thank you to all our generous donors. Every dollar received through our Caring Sunday Appeal will directly benefit grant recipients, making a positive difference in the lives of the most vulnerable members of our community.
In the past month, it’s been an absolute honour to promote our 2024 Caring Sunday Appeal. This appeal makes our grant process possible so if you want to make a donation, visit our website and click DONATE or call 027 390 7507.
CAROLINE COLLIE
GOD’S HANDS HERE ON EARTH
CAROL ZILIONIS
The Western Bay of Plenty ‘St Vincent de Paul’ is made up of four conferences; Stella Maris in Waihi; St Josephs in Tauranga; St Marys in Tauranga; and St Thomas More in Mount Maunganui. Carol is president of the ‘Mount’ conference and is constantly looking for creative ways to encourage support from their parishioners, schools and the wider community. It’s not always about donating goods or money either. Recently the conference had a client in need of a yard tidy as they couldn’t manage it themselves. Carol put out a call to the men’s prayer group who were looking for ways to help the community as a group, so gave their time to this client. It saved the Vinnies having to pay a contractor and also gave even the younger vinnies a chance to help.
St Vincent de Paul is a voluntary organisation that supports those in our community that are in need.
The society was introduced to New Zealand in 1868 by a French Priest, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam. Visiting the poor has remained the principal work in the society. Everyone has a right to the basic necessities of life: food, shelter, clothing, and warmth. We aim to support those who are struggling and get them to a point where they can cope themselves. It may be a one-off or help over a period. Each case is treated individually and help given where and when needed. The motto we often say within our own conference is, ‘it’s not a hand out, it’s a hand up.”
Food parcels are a good start as it can relieve financial pressure freeing up some money for other necessities. Some weeks we give out over 100 boxes of food. The type of help given will depend on the person’s needs. It may be help with rent, furniture, paying a doctor’s bill, school fees,
uniforms or a phone or power bill. It may be non financial i.e. advocacy with the Ministry of Social Development, immigration, budgeting assistance or simply someone to talk to.
“Go to the poor: you will find God.”
ST VINCENT DE PAUL
The support centre is located at the back of St Vincent de Paul’s opportunity shop on Cameron Road. This is where people who need support can go to request help. There are many different agencies that send through referrals to the support centre. We are one of the few agencies that do not have red tape. If there are emergency situations we can organise help almost immediately.
Funding of our free services is provided by the revenue from the Vinnies op shops. Shops are located in Tauranga, Greerton and Mount Maunganui. All funds raised from these shops stay within our area.
The St Thomas More conference conducted a food drive in March and they are set to run another during September. We run this through the church and our previous one in March saw over eight full car loads of food delivered to
our support centre for distribution. Alongside this we had two schools who also participated in a food drive during this time. Papamoa Primary School (state) ran a mufti day, where students bought a food donation instead of money. Suzanne Aubert school also did a food drive at their school. Thanks to these two schools and our parishioners for donating so much food and encouragement to help those in need. Many more families will be helped with food thanks to the schools and the parishioners. We will be running the same rubix for our next food drive and look set to have more schools on board. If you see a Vinnies food donation box in your parish foyer, please consider donating.
What a wonderful community we have and we at the conference have been privileged to meet many of you who have been so kind and generous. God Bless and remember that you are God’s hands here on earth.
The prayer of the poor rises up to God
DICASTERY FOR EVANGELIZATION © dedicated to prayer, given that the day will be celebrated shortly before the beginning of the Jubilee Year of 2025: “The prayer of the poor rises up to God” (cf Sir 21.5). Given the context, this has an immediate and clear impact.
World Day of the Poor is an opportunity to become aware of the presence of the poor in our cities and communities, and to understand their needs. As always, the Pope also mentions the “new poor”, those who are victims of violence and wars, “bad politics carried out with weapons” (n. 4), which causes many innocent victims.
F or the VIII World Day of the Poor, Pope Francis has chosen a particularly significant motto for this year
The Pope reiterates that the poor have a privileged place in the heart of God, who is attentive and close to each of them. God listens to the prayers of the poor and, in the face of suffering, becomes “impatient” until He has done them justice. In fact, the book of Sirach goes further, stating that, “the judgement of God will be in favour of the poor” (see 21.5).
On November 17, 2024, the Holy Father will preside at Mass in the Vatican in St. Peter’s Basilica. This will be followed by the traditional lunch with poor people in the Paul VI Hall, organised, as last year, by the Dicastery for Charity, while the Dicastery for Evangelization will provide for the needs of the neediest through various charitable initiatives.
In his message, Pope Francis invites everyone to learn to pray for the poor and to pray together with the poor, with humility and trust.
The Pope reiterates that prayer must find its true authenticity by being expressed in concrete works of charity. In fact, prayer and good works go together: “If prayer is not translated into concrete action it is in vain; (...) however, charity without prayer risks becoming philanthropy which soon runs out” (n. 7). This is the legacy which many saints in history have left us, such as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, who always repeated that prayer was the place from which she drew the faith and the strength she needed to serve the poor.
Let us not forget, however, the numerous people in our cities who continue to dedicate a large part of their time to listening to and supporting the poor. They are ordinary people who, with their example, “give voice to God’s response to the prayers of those who turn to Him” (n.7). The World Day of the Poor is also an opportunity to remember each of them and thank the Lord for them.
Pope Francis’ Message for this VIII World Day of the Poor, therefore, invites everyone to pay more serious spiritual attention to the poor, who need God and need a human presence – someone who is a concrete sign of listening and closeness to them.
ANNUAL DAY OF PRAYER FOR LIFE
Support Life Sunday 13th October 2024
The “Infinite” Nature of Human Dignity
DR JOHN KLEINSMAN
Dr John Kleinsman is the director of the Nathaniel Centre for Bioethics which is responsible for developing the Support Life Sunday campaign. The theme is approved by the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference and the content developed in close collaboration with the six diocesan Pastoral Care Offices.
Each year, on the second Sunday in October, the Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand holds an annual Day of Prayer for Life, otherwise known as Support Life Sunday. The theme approved by the bishops this year is “Infinite Dignity = Infinite Love.” This year’s focus picks up on the recent Vatican document, Dignitas Infinita – On Human Dignity. In the preamble to this significant publication, the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith describes the impetus for it as arising out of “the indispensable nature of the dignity of the human person in Christian anthropology” and the urgent need to illustrate “the significance and beneficial implications of the concept in the social, political, and economic realms” which are currently characterised by so many grave violations of human dignity.
The document’s title traces back to a speech given to disabled people by Pope St John Paul II in 1980 in which he emphasised that God, in Jesus Christ, has shown how he loves every person in an “unsurpassable” way and that this thereby bestows upon every individual an “infinite dignity”. To quote directly from Dignitas Infinita: “Every human person possesses an infinite dignity, inalienably grounded in his or her very being, which prevails in and beyond every circumstance, state, or situation the person may ever encounter.”
In line with the focus of Dignitis Infinita, the campaign tagline for this year’s Support Life Sunday is
“Every
Person Matters ... Always!”
Liturgical materials in the form of a suggested Welcome/ Introduction and Prayers of the Faithful have been distributed to parishes, along with suggestions for hymns. Other materials, including social media posts made up of quotes from Dignitas Infinita are still being worked on. The shorter version of the prayer for life is included on the back cover of this issue.
All resources, including the longer version of the prayer can be found on our website. Holder slides for powerpoints and other content will also be added. Further updates will be given regarding social media content closer to the time.
HOLY HABITS
BREAK BAD HABITS, BUILD GOOD HABITS
A habit can be good or bad, and generally something repetitive. How can you get rid of a bad habit? Develop a Holy one!
Can you guess what it is?
Reconciliation!!!!
Once you have made your first reconciliation (also known as confession) in your sacramental preparation classes, you need to keep going. Going on a regular basis, will help you get rid of all those “bad habits” and the ones the Church calls sin. This will help you to grow in Holiness and be on your way to becoming a Saint!
RELIGIOUS HABITS
Another type of “good habits” are what our Religious wear! Can you match up all the names of the Orders with the habits that they wear?
A full Examination of Conscience for young people can be found on our website at: www.ketekorero.co.nz
ATAWHAI ASSISI
Thank you to the Eagle’s Wings choir, whose beautiful singing enhanced our Father’s Day Mass at Atawhai Assisi, on Sunday 1st September.
Pictured here with Mons Frank Eggleton, chaplain.
HAMILTON PRAYER BREAKFAST
The Hamilton Prayer Breakfast was held at Claudelands, and was well represented. I would like to thank all who were able to join praying for our Nation, City, Community and Church. Over 400 attended and the Hamilton Mayor, Paula Southgate, reflected on what a city is - people and communities. Thank you to Mons Frank who beautifully led the prayer for our nation. - Helen Smithson
Titus Tidbits
PRAYER FOR LIFE
SUPPORT LIFE SUNDAY (2024)
Lord, you call us, your pilgrim people, to be people of life and for life; to journey in confidence towards "a new heaven and a new earth" that is characterised by a commitment to the infinite dignity of every person.
Lord, look down upon the vast numbers of those whose human dignity is daily being violated by war, poverty, exploitation, physical and emotional violence, premature death, abuse, prejudice and neglect.
Grant that we who believe in you may proclaim the Gospel of life in what we think, say and do.
Obtain for us the grace to accept the Gospel as a gift ever new, the joy of celebrating it with gratitude, and the courage to bear witness to it resolutely so as to build, together with all people of good will, a world of justice, mercy, truth, compassion and love.
To the praise and glory of God, the Creator and lover of all life.
Inspired by and drawn from Evangelium Vitae - The Gospel of Life (Pope St John Paul II, 1995) and Dignitas Infinita (Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, 2024).