FEBRUARY 03, 2002, vol 52, no 3

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4 May they all be one. Father, may they be one in us as you are in me and I am in you... 9 John 17:21

Vol. 52 No. 3

rism!’ pledges ter-faith gathering at fo c u s a n Holy Family inter-religious Church D ialo g u e

Pilgrimage to Assisi waiiy

Religious leaders affirm commitment to end terrorism ASSISI, ITALY —Saying religious leaders wanted to do their part to fend off the dark clouds of terror­ ism, hatred (and) armed conflict, Pope John Paul II led an inter-reli­ gious pilgrimage to Assisi, birthplace of St Francis.

The winter sky above Assisi was leaden with thick clouds on Jan 24, but the pope and more than 200 re­ ligious leaders were protected from the cold wind and the afternoon rain by a huge tarp and plastic sheeting that turned lower St Francis Square into a tent.

Violence never again, the pope said at the end of the afternoon meet­ ing. War never again. Terrorism never again. In the name of God, may every religion bring upon the earth justice and peace, forgive­ ness and life, love, the 81-year-old pope said before his guests set iighted glass and terracotta oil lamps on a large table as a sign of hope.

Islam was the most strongly rep­ resented of the non-C hristian religions at the event, with 30 del­ egates from 18 countries including seven Middle East nations, Libya, Sudan and the United States. They made up nearly a third of the 100 non-Christian participants.

During the brief afternoon serv­ ice, 10 religious leaders, reading in 10 different languages, recited 10 commitments they all promised to fulfil to help bring peace to the world.

The leaders also promised to educate their faithful to respect oth­ ers, to foster dialogue, to defend each person s right to live a decent life, to value differences, to be voices for the poor and defenceless and to promote friendship among peoples.

Orthodox Bishop Vasilios of Trimithus on the divided island of Crete read another pledge: We commit ourselves to forgiving one

another for past and present errors and prejudices ... and to learn from the past that peace without justice is no true peace.

At the morning gathering, Pope John Paul said he and other leaders of the world s religions share the anxiety of many of their faithful, but they also share a firm belief that God can grant the world peace.

In times of greater anxiety about the fate of the world, we sense more clearly than ever the duty to commit ourselves personally to the defence and promotion of the fundamental good which is peace, he said, wel­ coming the leaders to Assisi.

4 Violence never again.

War never again.

Terrorism never again.?

— Pope John Paul II The pope and his guests arrived in Assisi after a two-hour pilgrimage by train, a journey that began with an all aboard at the Vatican s sel­ dom-used train station.

Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, spiritual leader of the world s Ortho­ dox, as well as two other Orthodox patriarchs, representatives from 14 other Christian denominations and 11 other religions, accepted the pope s invitation to come to Assisi.

In his morning address, the pope said, We are here as representa­

tives of different religions to exam­ ine ourselves before God concern­ ing our commitment to peace, to ask him for this gift, to bear witness to our shared longing for a world of greater justice and solidarity.

Listening to one another is the first step in peacemaking, he said, because it serves to scatter the shadows of suspicion and misunder­ standing.

Pope John Paul and the other leaders who spoke at the morning session in Assisi repeatedly under­ lined the need for justice and the re­ spect of human rights in building peace.

It cannot be forgotten that situ­ ations of oppression and exclusion are often at the source of violence and terrorism, he said.

But religious leaders also know that forgiveness is part of peacemak­ ing because it heals the wounds of the heart and fully restores damaged human relations, the pope said.

Pope John Paul also said it was essential that the religious leaders clearly proclaim their common con­ viction that whoever uses religion to foment violence contradicts religion s deepest and truest inspiration.

Patriarch Bartholomew, the first of 11 religious leaders to speak, told the gathering, Today, once more, following horrendous holocausts and the slaughter of so many innocent victims, it is our duty to acknowledge the spiritual conditions for peace on earth, and not merely economic or other factors.

These conditions include right­ eousness and respect for the sa­ credness of the human person, for one s neighbour and for his freedom and dignity, the patriarch said.

We must repent and turn back ^Continued on Page 10

Franciscan friars present oil lamps to religious leaders attending a spir­ itual summit with Pope John Paul II on Jan 24 in Assisi, Italy. The lamps were later set on a table by the participants as a sign of solidarity and hope for peace. CNS photo from Reuters

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FEBRUARY 3 - 10, 2002

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

LOCAL G A TH ER IN G S FOR W O RLD PEACE

Never to war! Never to terrorism! ... declare m em bers of various faiths at a vigil service for w orld peace.

By Christopher Khoo NEVER again to terrorism! Never again to war! Never again to violence! In the name o f God may all religions o f this e arth be the so urce o f ju s tic e , forgiveness, peace, life and love!

This cry from some 1,800 people of various faiths rang out in the Church of the Holy Family during the Vigil Service to Pray for World Peace on Jan 23.

The service was held in response to Pope John Paul II s call for inter-religious gatherings to be held all over the world to pray for peace as a preparation for an international prayer gathering to be held at Assisi, Italy on Jan 24 (see front page).

The event saw prayers for peace and readings from sacred texts made by representatives of the Hindu, Jew­ ish, Zoroastrian, Buddhist, Taoist, Christian, Muslim, Sikh and Baha i faiths.

In his opening address, Archbishop Nicholas Chia said, It is necessary for religious leaders and followers to learn to walk together in peace and harmony or we will drift apart and ruin ourselves and others.

Fr Anthony Ho, rector of the St Francix Xavier Major Seminary, in his welcome speech, stressed, VJs have to deepen our understanding of the teaching of the (religious) founders and learn how we can relate with others and people of other religions.

Addressing the religious leaders

The Muslim and Bahai communities were represented by Ustadh Sabri Omar (left) and Mr Daniel Chu respectively.

Some of the religious representatives at the Vigil Service To Pray For World Peace on Jan 23: (from left) Archbishop Nicholas Chia, Rabbi Mordechai Abergel (Judaism), Ven. Dr K. Gunaratana (Buddhism), Rev Dr Kang Ho Soon (Methodist) and MrSardar Gurbaksh Singh Grewal (Sikhism). present, he emphasized, As leaders it is our duty and obligation that faithful followers know what is being taught and uphold the truth found not only in their own traditions but also in other

religions.

The service also saw the people lighting candles symbolising that they are now bearers of light for a world of darkness. □

I— i Rev Dr Kang Ho Soon (left) of the Methodist Church, representing the Christian faith, and Master Li Zhiwang of the Taoist faith, at the vigil service.

Mass, Taize chants mark district preparations

By Mel Diamse-Lee and Al Dizon DISTRICT preparations for the archdiocesan Prayer Service for Peace included the celebration of Mass, chanting of the songs of Taize, recitation of the Litany of Nations and moments of reflection on the pope s World Day of Peace Message.

The district gatherings were held between Jan 21-22.

At the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace, where the East District para-liturgy was held on Jan 22, some 400 parishioners prayerfully chanted Taize songs and recited the Litany of Nations.

P arishioners also offered prayers for peace by writing on a long white cloth draped around a cross. They were led in this by their district priests, Frs Paul Staes, John Baptist Tou, Gregoire Van Giang, Adrian Yeo, Carlo Ly, Alexander Chua and Ignatius Low. At the Church of Our Lady Star of the Sea, intercessory prayers and a benediction marked the paraliturgy concelebrated by North Dis­ trict priests, Frs Peter Koh, Joseph Tan, Eugene Chong, Timothy Yeo and Louis Loiseau.

The West District para-liturgy on Jan 22 was held at the Church of the Holy Cross w hile the Serangoon District Mass was held on Jan 21 at the Church of St Anne.

Meanwhile, the City districts prayer service at the Novena Church saw the congregation praying for

Above: Parishioners from the East District offer prayers for peace on Jan 22 at the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace.

Left: Fr Timothy Yeo read out the pope’s message for World Day of Prayer for Peace at the North District paraliturgy on Jan 22 held at the Church of Our Lady Star of the Sea.

seafarers.

Read by Ms Connie Yip, parish secretary of the Church of St Theresa, the petition noted that the seafarer s world is a complex world of interests often at conflict with one another.

It cited fictitious companies, flags of convenience, dual registries as like altars where men and women of the sea are sacrificed for the god of profit.

The petition cited Psalm 107 which describes seafarers as those who go down to the sea in ships and occupy their business in great w aters.

We, the Church must cry out that God is offering us a new way of seeing things, and it is our re­ sponsibility to accept the gift of God, the petition said. It added that seafarers are the weak link in the chain of interests, and are often exploited.

As Church, the petition said, we have the duty to be present to witness that men are worth more than m oney.

St Theresa s church hosts the A postleship o f the Sea which provides pastoral care for seafarers.

Another highlight of the proceed­ ings at Novena was singer Hillary Francis rendition of Begin With The Peace Within, an original song which he also sang at the inter-faith prayer service on Jan 23 at the Church of the Holy Family. □

CHIJ Toa Payoh students pray for peace STUDENTS of CHIJ Toa Payoh Sec­ ondary were led by fellow students of various faith traditions in praying for peace on Jan 24 in answer to pope John Paul’s appeal for prayers (see photo below).

The student representatives were from the Buddhist, Hindu, Mus­ lim, Jainist, Sikh, Christian and Catholic faiths.

Their prayers were later promi­ nently displayed outside the school prayer room.

Later, the students and teachers joined in the singing of the Prayer of St Francis, Make Me A Channel of Your Peace. □

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FEBRUARY 3 - 10, 2002

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

LOCAL DIALOGUE AT GRASS-ROOTS LEVEL

Inter-cultural and inter-religious dialogue of love and action at Catholic-run training centre

By Mel Diamse-Lee WOMEN of various cultures, nation­ alities and religious beliefs have been learning and working side by side for five years at the Filipino On­ going Developm ent Program (Filodep) in Holland Road.

The skills training centre run by the Franciscan Missionaries Of Mary opened its doors to Indonesian, Myanmar, Sri Lankan and Indian na­ tionals in m id-1997 when Sr Rosalind Chan took over as super­ visor.

We started admitting non-Catholics to the centre because I believe skills training is as important for women of other nationalities as much as for Filipinos, Sr Rosalind said.

Although the non-Filipinos are few, I like the idea of catering also to Indonesians, Myanmar nationals, In­ dians and Sri Lankans, she added, noting that they learn Basic English and cultural dances.

Muslim women come in their prayer attire, with a veil covering most of their faces, she said.

They asked me if they could come to Filodep wearing veils be­ cause they would have to go for prayers in the mosque, and I said, Go ahead, I wear my veil, you wear yours, Sr Rosalind said.

Now that more women from many nationalities flock to the centre, she said she wants them to mingle with each other but stay mindful of their respective spiritual needs, Sr Rosalind said.

Lessons on personality develop­ ment and inter-personal skills are open to all.

A Filipino domestic worker choreographed the traditional dance being performed above by Indonesians at the graduation ceremony at Filodep in December.

Indian basic movements from her In preparation for the December brother-in-law, a professional chore­ graduation ceremony for some of the ographer, and by watching cultural students, a Filipino volunteer choreo­ dances on VCD. graphed Indian and Indonesian According to Sr Rosalind, the spirit dance numbers for the Indian and In­ ofFilpodepis home away from home donesian nationals. where domestic workers can come to Said Madam Rosita Santiago, a build up or renew their energy and face domestic helper: Whenever we are the challenges of the coming week. invited to perform at migrant commu­ While lessons are conducted nities, I include the Indians, Myanmar every Sunday, volunteer teachers are nationals and Indonesians because careful not to let those who can only I do not want them to feel neglected. attend classes fortnightly lag behind I want them to feel like they are a part in the lessons. These are asked to of us.

I always tell them that just be­come to the centre earlier on their days off for make-up lessons. cause they are domestic workers, it Filodep was established in 1988 does not mean that housework is all

by FMM Sister Andy Casuso with the they can do. I want them to be proud then Philippine Ambassador Fran­ of themselves and show off their tal­ cisco L. Benedicto, to give market­ ents, she added. able vocational skills to Filipino do­ Mdm Santiago, a Filodep volun­ mestic helpers in Singapore. □ teer since 1997, said she learned

Archbishop Chia: stay focused

By Br Aloysius Ong PRESIDING at the St Francis Xavier Major Seminary Mass on Jan 7, Archbishop Nicholas Chia urged the seminary students and lecturers to stay focused.

Illustrating his point, he narrated a story of two archers at practice.

Asked what they saw, one replied trees, birds, etc. The second archer looked intently ahead and said, I see the bulls-eye, which I am going to hit with my arrow .

Relating this story to the studies and formative environment of the seminary, Archbishop Chia encour­ aged all to focus on their work and responsibilities and not to be dis­ tracted by the goings-on around them.

A unique element of the Mass was the annual oath-taking by the seminary lecturers, promising to teach in accordance with the necessary and proper teachings of the Church.

Seminarian Stanislaus Pang also expressed gratitude to the outgoing priests of the seminary: Fr Lawrence Yeo (former rector), Fr Noel Chin (former Procurator) and Fr Ambrose Vaz (former pastoral director).

One of the students, Sr Leticia C. Lopez of the Verbum Dei Mis­ sionaries, said the Inaugural Mass was a real push for all to start the

Emulate founder says Archbishop Chia to Opus Dei members

By Eric Valles ARCHBISHO P N icholas Chia called on members of Opus Dei here to strive for fidelity to the spirit of their founder at a Mass com­ memorating the 100th anniversary of the birth of Blessed Josemaria Escriva on Jan 9.

The celebration of joy, was at­ tended by about 800 people at the Church Of The Holy Family.

We thank Almighty God for Blessed Josemaria and the good that has come through his efforts May the spirit that he imparted to you continue to grow and bear fruit for God s kingdom, he said.

Fr Gerard Weerakoon, assistant at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, delivered the homily. He recalled his visits before ordination to the first local centre of Opus Dei on Faber Drive. He also summed up Blessed Josemaria s message as a call for men and women from all walks of life to strive for sanctity and joy.

Being a saint is very interest­ ing, Fr Gerard said. The more you practise the virtues, the more you

The concelebrated Mass commemorating the 100th birth anniversary of Blessed Josemaria Escriva at the Church Of The Holy Family on Jan 9 was presided over by Archbishop Nicholas Chia.

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Lecturers and students of St Francis Xavier Major Seminary at Mass on Jan 7. year with an active and positive at­ titude. I feel encouraged to strengthen not only my desire to know God but also my eagerness to deepen my faith and grow in my personal relationship with God. A Canossian novice, Philomena Peter, also felt touched by the Arch­ bishop s homily and the strong reminder to focus on Christ and

build a personal relationship with Him in this ongoing formation.

The seminary currently has three priests taking care of fourteen seminar­ ians, eight of whom are Singaporean.

Despite the diverse age groups, nationalities and maturity, all are answering and discerning their call in their own way on what it is to walk with Christ. □

To contact Vicar General, Rt Rev Msgr Eugene Vaz, call Tel: 339-6715 (new telephone number).

will have joy. Being a saint entails being in touch with the things of God in a new way.

Exhorting those present to let the centennial of Blessed Josemaria s birth be a spur towards a new beginning in the spiritual life, Fr Gerard stressed the need for sacramental confession.

The concelebrants also included Fr Adrian Yeo, Dominican Father Fernando Munoz and Fathers Michael Chan, Conor Donnelly and Jose Luis Lopez of the Opus Dei Prelature.

Blessed Josemaria was beatified

by Pope John Paul II in 1992. On Dec 20, the miracle required for his canonization was announced.

The worldwide prelature of Opus Dei comprises some 84,000 mem­ bers. About 98% of the members are laypeople, most of whom are married. Some 1,800 ordained priests belong to the prelature. □ Information on the Opus Dei Prelature can be found on www.opusdei.org.’ For enquiries call 775-4513 (for women) and 779-0652 (for men).

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THE CATHOLIC NEWS

Recruit religious persons into Party A high-ranking Chinese official has called fo r the re cruitm ent of religious persons into the C om m unist Party O f China.

HONG KONG —A senior Chinese official has called for greater reli­ gious tolerance, including the re­ cruitment of religious persons into the Communist Party Of China (CPC), but Church observers cau­ tion against expecting changes too quickly.

In his recent article, What Kind Of Religious Outlook Should We Have: Marxist Outlook On Religion Must Move Along With Times, Mr Pan Yue, deputy director of the State Council O ffice For Restructuring Economic Systems, criticized the narrow thinking of the CPC on religion.

The council is a think tank that provides the Chinese government with recommendations on industrial and economic reform and conducts research in related fields.

Mr Pan began the article by questioning religion as the opium of the people. He noted that the CPC adopted this as a cornerstone of its religious policies, leading to the once deviated national religious policy and had paid a price for i t .

The CPCs anti-rightist cam­ paigns and the Cultural Revolution between the 1950s and 1970s dam­ aged Christian Churches and other religions in China.

‘We m u st reform our traditional concept o f religious m anagem ent so as to fo u n d a scientific a n d reasonable State-Church relationship. ’ — 'Mr Parifue in his article on Marxism and religion

He urged the Party to re-evaluate the function of religion, and to manage it rationally to solve the imminent problems in StateChurch relations, according to his article in China s Huaxia Times and Shenzhen Special Zone Daily on Dec 15 and 16 respectively.

Religions spiritual and ethical functions can serve socialism as its discipline and morality will lead peo­

ple to goodness, he said. Its cultural and charity functions are in har­ mony with the administration s, he added.

Religion adheres to no social system — feudalism, capitalism or socialism — but creates for itself a possibility to adapt mutually to a socialist society, Mr Pan said.

We must reform our traditional concept of religious management

so as to found a scientific and reasonable State-Church relationship, he stated.

Precious Blood Sister Beatrice Leung Kit-fun, associate professor at the Department Of Politics And Sociology in Lingnan University, Hong Kong, regarded the article as the second wave of President Jiang Zemin s new strategy toward a re­ ligious freedom policy.

Vietnam bishops upbeat Dialogue in Egypt report on Church life VATICAN CITY — In January meet­ ings with Vatican officials, Vietnam s bishops presented their most upbeat report in decades on Church life in their country.

In the past five years, Vietnam s Church membership has grown by more than 14% and some dioceses have more priestly vocations than they need, the bishops said.

And though they said Vietnam s communist government still re­ stricted many areas of Church ac­ tivity, the bishops cautiously hailed what they viewed as recent signs of an increase in religious freedom.

In fact, they said, this was the first time all the bishops were al­ lowed to come to Rome for their five-year ad timina visits. In past years, the government denied exit visas to some of the bishops.

Another example was an un­ precedented meeting on Dec 29 between the 13-member permanent committee of the bishops confer­ ence and Vietnam s prime minister.

The bishops said the level of re­ ligious freedom varies from region to region in Vietnam, depending on the attitude of local communist officials.

But in general, the government still insists on approving bishops nominations and controlling the se­ lection of candidates to the priest­ hood, priests assignments, and con­ struction of religious centres and seminaries, they said.

Despite the restrictions, the number of Vietnamese Catholics has grown by 14.39% in the last five years,

JERUSALEM — Christian, Jewish and Muslim religious leaders met in Alexandria, Egypt, and pledged to work together to end violence and promote peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

They called for an end to incite­ ment, hatred and misrepresentation of the other.

According to our faith traditions, killing innocents in the name of God is a desecration of his Holy Name and defames religion in the world, said the declaration, released Jan. 21.

The violence in the Holy Land is an evil which must be opposed by all people of good faith. We seek to live together as neighbours, respecting the integrity of each o the rs historical and religious inheritance, the statement said.

They pledged to continue a joint

quest for a just peace that leads to reconciliation in Jerusalem and the Holy Land, for the common good of all our peoples.

In this vein, they said, they were establishing a permanent joint committee to carry out the recom­ mendations of the declaration and to work with political leaders.

Palestinians and Israelis must respect the divinely ordained purposes of the creator by whose grace they live in the same land that is called holy, they said. We call on all to refrain from incitement and demonization and to educate our future generations accordingly.

The gathering was organized and chaired by Anglican Archbishop George Carey of Canterbury and co­ hosted by Sheikh Mohammed Tantawi of al-Azhar University in Egypt,

--------A Vietnamese man cleans a statue outside a cathedral in Hanoi. Bish­ ops say Church life in Vietnam has improved, c n s me photo while vocations to male and female religious life have increased by 78% and 51% respectively. Vietnamese Catholics officially number 5.3 mil­ lion, or about 7% of the population.

There are some dioceses where there are many priests, more than necessary, said one bishop, citing his own case as an example: about one priest for every 1,000 Catholics.

The bishop attributed the Catho­ lic growth to the Church s increasing inculturation in Vietnamese society.

People understand the Catho­ lic Church better, compared to even 25 years ago, he said. □ c n s

Muslims participate in Catholic ordination LARANTUKA, INDONESIA — Mus­ lims danced and chanted in Arabic to the accompaniment of musical instruments at an episcopal ordina­ tion in East Flores on Jan 10.

The chants, called kasidah, were sung to the rhythm of the gambus, a six-stringed plucked instrument of Arabic origin.

The participants at the first epis­ copal ordination in the diocese in 27 years comprised Catholics, Mus­ lims and people of other religions.

Mr P. L. Sangaji, a local Muslim leader, told the congregation that the

involvement of Muslims was a form of communion despite the differences in faiths. May we keep and develop our togetherness in this district, said the chairman of the East Flores Indonesian Islamic Ulemas Council.

Newly-ordained C oadjutor Bishop Fransiskus Kopong Kung of Larantuka said that unity between Catholics and people of other reli­ gions in society is a sign of salvation that should be shown to the world.

The Church is communion and God is there. It has to be one with the people in society, he said. □ u c a n

Jiang set a new and positive orientation to the religious freedom policy with more flexibility and re­ laxation in his speech made at the national religious work meeting held from Dec 10-12 in Beijing, she said.

However, she noted, it is too early to comprehend how those in religious circles will receive this change or how this new approach on religious freedom policy will be implemented.

A China Church observer, who preferred anonymity, said Mr Pan s article may reflect opinions from the senior level, but religious affairs officials will not accept his view and insist on strong control over reli­ gions .

The observer told UCA News on Jan 2 that while Mr Pan calls for religious tolerance, his article will have little impact on religious policy in China. The article only creates the appearance of a liberal atmosphere for outsiders, but in fact religion is still tightly controlled inside China, said the observer who lives in Hong Kong.

Unless C hina-Vatican and Church-State relations in China are resolved, the government s religious policy will remain unchanged, he added. □ u c a n

included more than a dozen religious figures from the three faiths.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Palestinian Chairman Yasser Arafat sent blessings for the meeting, as did the Israeli Foreign Ministry, Israeli President Moshe Katzav, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

The religious leaders called on believers of all faiths to respect the sanctity of the Holy Land and not to allow bloodshed to pollute it.

We call on the political leaders of both parties to work for a just, secure and durable solution in the spirit of the words of the Almighty and the prophets, they said.

They called for a religiously sanctioned cease-fire to be observed on all sides and for the implementation of recommendations by former U.S. Sen. George Mitchell and U.S. CIA Director George Tenet that includes a return to the negotiating table. □ c n s

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JANUARY 20 - 27, 2002

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

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Argentine bishops to hold national unity talks CNS photo from Reuters

BUENOS AIRES —The Argentine bishops will organize a national unity dialogue in a country that has lost its w a y .

Archbishop Estanislao Karlic of Parana, president of the bishops conference, stated this when refer­ ring to the economic and political crisis that has led to deadly street protests, five presidents in two weeks, a default on foreign debt payments and a 40% currency devaluation.

He spoke on Jan 14 on national television follow ing President Eduardo Duhalde s televised speech convoking the dialogue among gov­ ernment, political, labour, economic and business leaders to seek con­ sensus solutions to the crisis.

Archbishop Karlic criticized the violent street protests, saying dia­ logue was the only path to resolving problems.

He said Argentina must escape from the humiliation caused by so much corruption, deception and greed and rebuild the country from its foundations and added that get­ ting out of the current crisis involved creating new jobs, government and political reforms, fine-tuning justice, eliminating privilege and ending the stealing of public funds and goods .

Bishop Juan Maccarone of San­ tiago del Estero said the Church would be an active player of the

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Unemployed workers from the slums of Buenos Aires march under the national flag in the Plaza de Mayo on Jan 15. Argentine bishops called for an end to political corruption, the creation of new jobs and fine-tun­ ing of the justice system to help alleviate Argentina s economic crisis. dialogue, monitoring the credibility of the participants and offering its views about solutions.

We will witness to the loyalty or disloyalty of the players, he said.

We have a social doctrine that can help us make judgments.

Weeks of street demonstrations, food riots and looting in the country

left nearly 30 people dead. Demon­ strators were protesting an unem­ ployment rate of more than 18%, the bankruptcies of many compa­ nies and banking restrictions that virtually froze accounts.

About 89% of Argentina s 36 million inhabitants are Catholics. □

ment and the Catholic Church s decision to ban some retreat groups in Kerala.

In June and October last year, the Kerala Catholic Bishops Coun­ cil banned two Charismatic groups for organizing spiritual revival meet­ ings that centred on misplaced Catholic beliefs and theological po­ sitions.

The SMC bishop s synod au­ thorized the major archbishop to explain to the people about the distortions that have crept into the Charismatic movement in recent years, Fr Thelakat told UCA News on Jan 20.

In response to the ban, some evangelists who run retreat groups in various dioceses got together to send an explanatory letter to the bishops in Kerala.

Mr Jose Anathanam, founder of the Upper Room Charismatic retreat group, circulated an eightpage letter arguing that the ban on him is unethical, uncalled for and against the Church s own teachings.

Mr Anathanam, a Catholic who was banned after he was found baptizing people in rivers, said in his letter that he has a right to baptize his followers for Christ. He also criticized the Church practice of child Baptism, saying it should not be done at an age when one cannot make a commitment to Jesus.

He claimed his spiritual meet­ ings have rekindled the faith of the people, including Catholics.

He said God has given him the conviction and spiritual right to baptize others.

However, Cardinal Vithayathil s letter said the Church does not permit any spiritual revival groups to act separately from the Church.

He also insisted that relying solely on the Bible, disregarding Church teachings, is against the Catholic faith and practice. □ u c a n

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Beware of deviant Charismatic groups While lauding the Charismatic movementfo r its spiritual renewal o f the Church, the cardinal regretted that some groups in India are deviatingfrom Church teachings.

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KOCHI, INDIA -C ardinal Varkey V ithayathil of Ernakulam Angamaly has called on Catholics in India to be vigilant against Charismatic groups that deviate from Church teachings.

In a pastoral letter, the head of the Syro-Malabar Church (SMC) warned the Church members that some evangelists across the coun­ try are indulging in anti-Church teachings.

The letter was read during Sun­ day Mass on Jan 20 in the nearly 2,500 parishes of SMCs 24 dio­ ceses. The Oriental Church, based in the southern Indian state of Kerala, has 13 dioceses in Kerala and another 11 outside the state.

While lauding the Charismatic movement for its spiritual renewal of the Church, the cardinal expressed regret that some groups are deviat­ ing from Church teachings.

Some retreat groups and evan­ gelists use their own methods and work parallel to the Church, propa­ gating spiritual missions such as healing the sick, driving out evil spirits and offering Sacraments in­ dependently, he said.

SMC spokesman Fr Paul Thelakat said that the cardinals pastoral letter aims to help people understand the Charismatic move-

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THE CATHOLIC NEWS

A first since the Reformation!

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - C a r ­ dinal Cormac Murphy-O Connor of W estminster became the first Catholic leader since the Refor­ mation to be invited by a British monarch to preach.

The cardinal preached during Matins, or morning prayer, at the parish Church of St Mary Magdalene on Queen Elizabeth II s country es­ tate at Sandringham, Norfolk, on Jan 13. He said his presence there was evidence of the Holy Spirit impelling the Christian Churches towards unity.

The queen was present with her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, and her son and daughter-in-law, the Earl and Countess of Wessex.

The cardinal was a guest of the queen for the weekend at the es­ tate.

Cardinal Murphy O Connors of­ fice described the invitation as an unprecedented gesture of good will by the monarch. It came just days before the start of the Week Of Prayer For Christian Unity.

Although the queen attended a service to mark the centenary of Westminster Cathedral in 1995, at which the late Cardinal Basil Hume preached, this was the first occa­ sion since the Reformation that a Catholic leader had been invited by a reigning monarch to preach. The queen is the supreme governor of the Church of England.

C ardinal M urphy-0 Connor spoke on the Gospel account of the marriage feast at Cana. The ac­ count, he said, showed insights into

‘The Holy Spirit o f God in all o f the Christian Churches over recent years has been im pelling us to a greater unity. ’ - Cardinal Murphy-O’Connor of Westminster (above) to the queen and her family at the parish Church of St Mary Magdalene

Mary that were fundamental in Chris­ tian life.

It does not matter whether you are Anglican, Roman Catholic, Or­ thodox or Free Church, there are two attitudes of Mary that unite all Christians, he said.

In particular, the cardinal re­ ferred to Marys words to the wine waiter, Do whatever he tells you (John 2:5), and said that for Chris­

tians the will of God meant doing whatever Jesus tells us .

I feel today in preaching in this Church and under these circum­ stances that this is not just an isolated event, Cardinal MurphyO Connor said. The Holy Spirit of God in all of the Christian Churches over recent years has been impel­ ling us to a greater unity, a greater communion together. □ c n s

Church and State to work together CNS file photo

CAPE TOWN -T h e Church in South Africa is leading a movement for moral renewal and another against corruption.

Several departments within the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference are set to lead the cam­ paign, called Renewing Our Soci­ ety, which will begin in February and run until August next year.

Bishop Kevin Dowling of Rustenburg, who heads the bish­ ops justice and peace department, said South Africans need to redis­ cover a sense of their dignity and to act out of common values in order to address problems that are threat­ ening our very future and the quality of life of our nation .

The campaign, which follows broad consultation throughout the Catholic Church as well as other communities, will address problems such as crime and violence, joblessness, unethical business practices and gangs.

After the bishops have discussed the campaign at their plenary meet­ ing in Pretoria in late January, a coordinating committee will be ap-

South African citizens at a polling station. Problems are threatening the future of the nation, say Church leaders. pointed to manage the process at national, regional and local levels in the Church, Bishop Dowling said.

The bishop said the Church is taking very seriously calls from government and civil society for it to play a major role in promoting the moral reconstruction of South

African society.

W e see our Church commu­ nity participating in a spirit of partnership with government and other civil society organizations in a committed effort to renew society and our nation, Bishop Dowling said.

Statistics from the Human Rights Commission show that 20 million of South Africa s about 40 million peo­ ple live below the poverty line and more than 4.6 million have no in­ come. Also, more than 2.7 million families have no shelter, and only 600,000 of the 2.65 million people eligible for a disability grant actually receive the grant.

These factors contribute to so­ cial trauma in the country and are largely responsible for its moral and social breakdown and the rise of anti­ social attitudes , Bishop Dowling said.

A similar project, with an em­ phasis on fighting corruption, will be launched on Feb 3 by the South African Council Of Churches, of which the bishops conference is a member. □ c n s

FEBRUARY 3 -1 0 , 2002

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

iVATICAN

Doctrinal office s work needs more acceptance by Church, says pope

Church aid agencies struggle to provide relief in wake of volcanic eruption

In recent years, the congregation has issued a number of documents which generated controversy among some Catholics.

VATICAN CITY — Pope John Paul II said recent pronouncements by the Congregation For The Doctrine Of The Faith need deeper under­ standing and wider acceptance by the whole Church.

He said closer cooperation among Vatican agencies, bishops conferences, individual bishops and others engaged in the Church s work will help ensure that doctrinal de­ crees are accepted and applied to all areas of Church life.

The pope made the remarks in a talk on Jan 18 to the doctrinal congregation s permanent staff and members from around the world, at the end of a four-day annual ple­ nary meeting of the congregation.

In recent years, the doctrinal congregation has issued a number of controversial documents on topics such as inter-communion, religious pluralism, ecumenism, the sacra­

practical consequences applied at various levels of the Church.

In a wider sense, he said, the problem of transmitting fundamen­ tal truths — not just to Christians but to all people — has roots in several factors: the mass media s treatment of such truths, various historical situations, and the simple difficulty people have in accepting the severe demands of evangelical language .

The pope noted that at its ple­ nary meeting the congregation had begun discussing two new themes: the Eucharist and the Church, and natural law. Typically, such discus­ sions can go on for years at the congregation s meetings, and some­ times they result in a new document.

The pope said he was heart­ ened that the congregation was tak­ ing up the Eucharist as a topic; for one thing, he said, it would lessen the Church s focus on less urgent,

The pope said the ‘p roblem o f reception o f doctrinal docum ents’ requires better efforts so that teachings can be assim ilated a n d applied a t various levels o f the Church. ments and healing ministry.

At the same time, it has investi­ gated the works of several theolo­ gians, in some cases requiring writ­ ten corrections or clarifications be­ cause of doctrinal error or ambiguity.

The pope did not address the substance of the congregation s in­ dividual actions, but turned his at­ tention to what he called the deeper meaning of the plenary meeting.

More intense communication and cooperation between the (Vati­ can) agencies, the bishops confer­ ences and superior generals (of religious orders) is the first fruit we should invoke together in our meet­ ing today, he said.

He said that in general, the Church s life and work should be marked by ongoing fraternal ex­ amination and collaboration at every level, in which points of view are exchanged.

Without such cooperation ... the Church could not truly be herself, he said.

He said the problem of recep­ tion of doctrinal documents requires better efforts in this regard, so that teachings can be assimilated and

organizational issues. He said the Church needs to keep in mind that the Eucharist is a dramatic memo­ rial of Christs sacrifice and must not be reduced to a simple friendly encounter.

The pope pointed out that the theme of natural law has been an important one in his own recent encyclicals, which have warned that many modern societies are moving away from truths inscribed in the human heart.

He said the congregations re­ flections on the issue will be espe­ cially important to Christian legisla­ tors as they tackle questions of human rights and human dignity.

The pope made a brief refer­ ence to his recent decision to re­ serve cases of clergy sex abuse against minors to the doctrinal con­ gregation, along with other more serious offences in the Church.

While the pope did not specifi­ cally mention sexual abuse, he said that some grave moral problems require particular competence and study, as well as adequate educa­ tive programmes and formative at­ tention . □ CNS

Congolese carrying their belongings walk across still-warm lava from the Nyiragongo volcano eruption in Goma, Congo. CNS photo from Reuters VATICAN CITY — Catholic Church aid agencies in Goma, Congo are scrambling to help victims of Africa s worst volcanic eruption in 25 years.

We have been taking as many people as we can into Churches and schools to give them some shelter, and we are now trying to make arrangements to get food for them, said Fr Oswald Musoni, di­ rector of Caritas offices in Goma.

Caritas is an organisation of Catholic relief agencies within the Catholic Church.

Food and water are the most important things we need at the moment; some of these people haven t eaten or drunk anything for days, said Fr Musoni.

United Nations officials estimated

that 45 people were killed when the volcanic eruption sent up to 1.8 m of lava flowing in a path that over-ran several villages before cutting through Goma. The eruption filled the air with ash and released toxic gases, polluting water supplies.

Aid workers outside of Goma were trying to set up food and water distribution points for the displaced after molten lava literally divided the city and swept through homes on Jan 17. The citys cathedral was destroyed by the flow.

We are trying to help as many people as we can to find somewhere to go, but it is very difficult, said Fr Musoni. The streets are completely packed with refugees who have no shelter or food or drink.

The English and Welsh bishops Catholic Agency For Overseas De­ velopment and Caritas Australia were among other agencies that have pledged immediate help.

Catholic Relief Services, the US bishops international relief and development agency, is also working in the area to provide relief.

In a sign of solidarity, the pope urged humanitarian aid for the more than 300,000 Congolese left home­ less.

A telegram sent in the popes name to Church leaders in Goma, Congo, said Pope John Paul was praying that those deprived of shel­ ter, food and water would receive the necessary assistance from in­ ternational agencies. □ c n s

Lefebvre group in Brazil unites with Church VATICAN CITY — Brazilian followers of the late Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre formally returned to full communion with the Catholic Church during a Jan 18 ceremony in Brazil that included a profession of faith and an explicit acceptance of the teachings of the Second Vatican Council.

Followers of the late archbishop, who was excommunicated in 1988, are found around the world includ­ ing Singapore.

In a letter read at the ceremony in Campos, Brazil, Pope John Paul II said, It is with great joy that, in order to make the full communion effective, I declare the remission of the censure against the group s bishop as well as the removal of any censures incurred by priests and faithful associated with the Priestly Association Of St John Vianney.

The group s leader, Bishop Liciano Rangel, and his followers, almost all of whom live within the Diocese of Campos, had taken the necessary steps to return to full communion with the Church, said the pope.

He added that he was establish­ ing an apostolic administration, simi­ lar to a diocese and with the same

Followers of the late Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre (above) in Brazil have reconciled with the Church. boundaries as the Diocese of Campos, that would confirm re­ spect for your uniqueness and would include permission for the priests and faithful to continue us­ ing the pre-Vatican II liturgical rites.

Bishop Rangel was named head of the apostolic administration.

Archbishop Lefebvre and his fol­

lowers rejected the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council as well as many of its teachings on religious freedom and ecumenism. His followers insist on celebrating the Mass only according to the Tridentine ritual in place before the council.

The Brazilian group that recon­ ciled with the Vatican included 26 priests, about 28,000 faithful, as well as religious orders of women, monasteries, a seminary, a school and social centres.

Fr Fernando Guimaraes, an of­ ficial of the Vatican Congregation for Clergy, told Fides, the news agency of the Congregation for the Evange­ lization of Peoples, that this is the first group to request reintegration .

He said members of the Brazil­ ian group had written to the pope asking to be readmitted to com­ munion with the Catholic Church.

Their request was accepted on the condition that they recognize the authority of the pope as the vicar of Christ and shepherd of the Church, the legitimacy of the Second Vatican Council, and the validity of the Mass approved by Pope Paul VI. □ c n s

»

FEBRUARY 3 - 10, 2002

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

LENTEN FEATURE

■

R e-ev alu atin g our priorities Lent, which begins on Feb 13, calls for a change of mindset, says Jesuit Father Frederic Maples.

S

N SO many ways life is served up to us. We do not change so much as we are changed.

Inner and outer forces seemingly beyond our control often shape our lives. Some forces are positive: fall­ ing in love, having children. And some are negative: disasters, life-threaten­ ing accidents or illnesses, loss.

Yet, over and over we see peo­ ple who respond with grace and creativity to the most grievous life experiences. In suffering they dis­ cover what is most important, change their priorities and find inner healing.

These people are not passive in the face of the experiences served up to them. They enter into a dance with life.

They change and are changed.

Indeed, change is an essential ingredient in our spiritual pilgrim­ age. To paraphrase St Augustine: To grow is to change; to be whole is to have changed often. We are being stretched in preparation for something wonderful beyond hu­ man imagining.

Our life is a pilgrimage! During Lent and Easter we are encouraged to see life in this perspective.

Lent recalls Jesus 40 days in the desert. Jesus experience itself recalls Israels 40 years of desert pilgrimage toward the Promised Land. The experiences of ancient Israel and Jesus are true images of our own lives.

But how do we participate in this big stretch? What does it take to change our own priorities, to take initiative, to freely stretch?

Just like the ancient Jews or like Jesus, we do not have to navigate alone. God is with us. God is not only the goal, God is the Way! In that sense our eternal life already has begun even if it is not yet fully realized.

The Jesuit spiritual tradition is embodied in the Spiritual Exercises

Change is essential in our spiritual pilgrim age.

To paraphrase St A ugustine: To grow is to change; to he whole is to have changed often.

As individuals a n d as a Christian com m unity, we are encouraged to see life in this perspective d u rin g Lent a n d Easter.

of St Ignatius Loyola. He recog­ nized that the hearts deepest desires are indications of God s own desires for each of us.

And the surest guide to our deep and holy desires — to Gocfe desires for our good — is careful attention to what most deeply consoles us. God s most intimate touch and action in the soul of a person is to console!

A person may be doing some

ministry and feel that God was present in giving just the right words to say to someone. Or someone in prayer might feel loved and accepted by God. These are examples of consolation.

One could say that St Ignatius advice, bottom line, is simply this: Follow your consolation! To console is how God affirms our desires and choices, how God helps us to dis­ cern God s own desires for us.

Does that sound like an easy way to discover God s will, to change our own priorities? This way does have its joys, but it is also a great challenge. For many of us it is a task of many years to simply reach aware­ ness of our deepest desires, much less to acknowledge and accept our deepest nature and truest desires.

How can I not know my deepest desires?

We are surrounded by so many

How Mary Magdalene s faith challenged her priorities

By Father Eugene LaVerdiere, SSS THE four Gospels presented Mary Magdalene as a great follower of Jesus, one of the most prominent of the women who accompanied him as he went from place to place proclaiming the good news.

She must have been a person of some means, since she was one of those who provided out of their resources for Jesus and the Twelve (Luke 8:1-3).

In her life, Mary Magdalene faced four escalating tests and with each test she had to reassess her priorities.

The first test came when she met Jesus, probably in Capernaum or on the shore of the Sea of Galilee.

It was another woman, the one who anointed Jesus feet in the home of Simon, the Pharisee, who often is referred to as the sinful woman of the Gospel (Lk 7:36-50). Still, Mary Magdalene — like us — was a sinner Luke said she was possessed by seven demons (Lk 8:2). To bring out somebody s greatness, a Gospel emphasizes the depths from which the person came.

Jesus healed her of seven demons, forgiving her sins, and implicitly called her

voices, so many attractive images claiming to know what we should be, should desire and should have.

And yes, having is a big one!

All these voices are a constant noise telling us what is desirable, smart, cool, important and acceptable.

They tell us what will make us feel good and what will make us look good.

It is a real shift in attention to focus on God s consolation deep in our own soul.

Surrounded by so much noise and hype, so easily hooked by our woundedness, how do we even be­ gin to shift attention to God s still, small voice in our hearts? Among Ignatius of Loyola s rich teachings, a simple method stands out as a wonderful place to begin or a won­ derful addition to our ongoing effort to find God s will.

Today we call this method the examination of consciousness or, for short, the examen . It takes only a couple of minutes at the end of the day.

In God s presence, and asking for God s help, we walk through our day to see where there was experi­ ence of being consoled and where, by contrast, we were definitely not consoled, even desolate. Then we speak to God about what we have seen and give God thanks.

Simply because we do this in the presence of God and because we ask for God s help, we are already, if subtly, looking at our experience in a deeper and spiritual way. Over time we are surprised by the patterns of consolation. We become confident about what truly consoles us. We find the courage to follow our deepest, most inspired desires.

And we experience a conversion in our priorities and choices. □ c n s Jesuit Father Maples is a spir­ itual director with Loyola, a spir­ itual renewal resource in St. Paul, Minneapolis, USA.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

By David Gibson

God and acted on it. She was counted among Jesus close spiritual relatives (Lk 8:19-21).

2. She identified with the crucified Jesus. Mary Magdalene s third test came when she alone came to the tomb the first day of the week, early in the morning ... and saw the stone removed from the tomb (Jn 20:1). She saw that Jesus tomb was empty.

She would remain outside it, weeping.

3. She identified with Jesus human­ to follow him. ity. Mary Magdalene s fourth test came when she did not recognize the risen Lord, thinking She not only heard Gods word but Him a gardener. Sir, if you have carried him listened to it, embracing it with a generous away, tell me where you laid Him, she said and good heart, and bearing fruit through perseverance (Lk 8:15).

(Jn 20:15). Jesus said, Mary! (Jn 20:16) 1.

She identified with Jesus missionNow she recognized Him. 4. She identified with the Lord Jesus. and teaching. Mary Magdalene followed Mary Magdalene followed Jesus the entire Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem. In Jerusa­ way — to His crucifixion, burial, resurrection. lem, she was a significant witness to His We follow the same way in baptism as we passion, death, burial and resurrection. die with Christ, are buried and rise with Him. Her second test came when she saw Marys story prefigures our baptismal Jesus crucified. According to Mark, Luke journey in life, along which we repeatedly and Matthew, she was looking on from a are challenged to confront our priorities and distance when Jesus was crucified. identify with Jesus. □ c n s According to John, she stood by the cross of Jesus (John 19:25-26).

Blessed Sacrament Father LaVerdiere, is Mary Magdalene listened to the word of a Scripture scholar.

Like Mary Magdalene, we repeatedly are challenged to confront our priorities and identify with Jesus.

TO LABEL something a priority is to say it ranks higher than something else among our concerns.

A priority deserves time and attention. Iden­ tifying priorities enables us to clarify how we II invest our time and attention.

But we have so many concerns: family, work, education and health. Woven throughout are faith concerns.

These concerns vie with each other for our time and attention. And other people are only too ready to say what our priorities should be in each of these areas.

One of my assumptions about priorities is that my concerns can t all be equal. Something has to be a lesser priority for me — though saying so might take courage. Probably some of my current concerns even should be labelled non-priorities.

Another assumption: True priorities tend to come into view at crisis times or other key moments. The time of a loved one s death is such a time.

The challenge is to remember later what came into view then. In other words, realigning priorities is bound to become an ongoing project.

David Gibson is editor of Faith Alive!

FEBRUARY 3 - 10, 2002

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

FEATURE INTER-RELIGIOUS DIALOGUE

T h e

K o ra n

a n d

th e

B ib le

Many Old Testament characters in the Bible are present in the Koran, says Fr Eugene LaVerdiere, SSS FOR Muslims, the book of Koran is sacred scripture.

According to orthodox Muslims, the Koran is an earthly reproduction of the uncreated, eternal original writ­ ten on a magnificent tablet in heaven.

The heavenly and earthly Koran are Gods word.

For Muslims, the Koran was re­ vealed by God to the prophet Moham­ med at the Arabian cities of Mecca and Medina, now in Saudi Arabia.

The Christian Bible includes many books written in Hebrew, Aramaic or Greek by authors from many cultures.

The books of the Bible were written from the 10th century before Christ to the second century after his death.

The Koran is a book that Mus­ lims believe was revealed in one language, Arabic, to the prophet Mohammed and received by him over a period of 20 years, from 610 to 632 in our Common Era. The Koran is nearly the size of the New Testament. It is divided into 114 suras or divine discourses, varying from three verses to 286 verses. Each sura begins with this formula, called in Arabic basmalah: In the Name of Allah, the Compas­ sionate, the Merciful.

The opening sura is the brief, beautiful Muslim prayer summariz­ ing the message of the Koran (as the Lord’s Prayer summarizes the Gospel): Praise be to Allah, Lord of the Creation, The Compassionate, the Mer­ ciful, King of the Last Judgment!

You alone we worship, and to You alone we pray for help.

Guide us to the straight path, The path of those whom You have favoured, Not of those who have incurred Your wrath, Nor of those who have gone astray.

The Koran refers many times to (biblical) Old Testamentpersonages.

Moses and Abraham are by fa r the most important Old Testament personages for Muslims.

The Koran also refers to New Testament personages, especially Zechariah, John the Baptist, Mary and above all Jesus.

Each religious Muslim recites Sura 1 aloud several times in each of five daily prayers.

The Koran refers many times to Old Testament personages: Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Noah, Abraham, Isaac and Ishmael, Jacob, Joseph and his brothers, Moses, Aaron and the Israelites, Solomon and David, Jonah and Job. Moses and Abraham are by far the most important Old Testament personages for Muslims. Like Moses, Abraham turned his back to idolatry

in order to worship the one God. Abraham is a great model for believers.

The Koran also refers to New Testament personages, especially Zechariah, John the Baptist, Mary and above all Jesus.

In Sura 19, the Koran presents Marys conception of Jesus as an act of God: We [God] sent to her Our spirit in the semblance of a fullgrown man. And when she saw him she said: May the Merciful defend me from you! If you fear the Lord,

LOCAL NEWS

Singing couple rocks retreat centre

By Cecilia Yip ABEY and Swapna, the singing couple from India, led a lively praiseand- worship programme over two evenings, from Jan 18-19 at the St Francis Xavier Retreat Centre.

Their workshop on the first evening drew 400 praise and wor­ ship leaders and other participants.

Drawing from their experiences, the couple gave tips on how to lead praise-and-worship sessions.

Blessed with the gift of humour and a bubbly disposition, Swapna enlivened her explanation of the three stages of praise and worship and likened leading to standing between God on one hand and His people on the other.

The role of the worship leader is to bring people close to God, she said.

In order to be a good praise-andworship leader, one must know God and His territory, and be close to Him,

Abey (left) and Swapna at the concert at St Francis Xavier Re­ treat Centre on Jan 19.

as well as be attentive to the prompt­ ing of the Holy Spirit.

The success of their concert on Jan 19 was reflected in the enthusi­ astic response of the young and old who were on their feet, clapping, dancing and singing praises to God nonstop for over two hours. The cou­ ple also introduced a number of original songs.

They were supported by the St Jude Music Subministry of the re­ treat centre, in leading an appreciative and responsive crowd of more than 700.

Abey, 32, and Swapna, 30, openly shared their troubled past as they urged the participants to pray for conversion.

They have devoted 11 years to full-time evangelizing through their music. The couple and their two kids stopped here on the first leg of their world tour this year. □

leave me and go your way. retired to a far-off place.

I am the messenger of your The Koran presents Jesus not only as prophet but uses the title Lord, he replied, and have come to give you a holy son.

Messiah . Nevertheless, it denies How shall I bear a child, she that Jesus is God or God s Son. The answered, when I am a virgin, un­ Koran presents Jesus performing miracles such as raising the dead. touched by man?

In the Koran, Jesus is one in a Such is the will of your Lord, series of God’s prophets, leading up he replied. That is no difficult thing to the ultimate prophet, Moham­ for Him. He shall be a sign to mankind, med. D c n s says the Lord, and a blessing from Fr LaVerdiere, a Blessed Sacra­ ment priest, is a Scripture scholar and Ourself. That is Our decree. senior editor of Emmanuel magazine.

Thereupon she conceived and

JENNIFER WEE " T T jwee@ cyberway com.sg

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FEBRUARY 3 -1 0 , 2002

PILGRIMAGE TO ASSISI

Day Of Prayer— its significance Extracts of a Vatican document giving the background to the event THE appalling events which shook the world in September of last year, at the very beginning of the third millennium, sowed seeds of vio­ lence and hatred, and broke the spell of a society which saw itself as advanced and free, but yet in an instant found itself fragile, divided and threatened...

Faced with this world scene, the representatives of the various reli­ gions have almost spontaneously in recent months come to a common mind on three great commitments, to which they have often given ex­ pression."

■ First, a heightened sense of the value of peace as a gift from God, to be prayed for with ever greater trust, according to the prac­ tice and tradition of each religion.

■ Second, the desire to demon­ strate solidarity joining together in shared supplication for peace.

■ Third, the urgent need to wit­ ness together to a commitment to peace and justice, both in daily life and in the great decisions of political and social life"— "a witness which the secularized world, though far re­ moved from religion, often demands and of which it feels itself in need.

"Ever since the fearful events of last September, His Holiness Pope John Paul IThas condemned terror­ ism and has, with his universally recognized moral authority, urged everyone to choose peace, justice and forgiveness.

He has interpreted the wishes of many in summoning Catholics to

a Day of Fasting and Prayer for the sake of peace"— undertaken with great seriousness on 14 December last, during Advent'— and in inviting the Representatives of the world religions to make a pilgrimage of prayer to the City of Assisi."

I wish to announce that I intend to invite Representatives of the reli­ gions of the world to come to Assisi on 24 January 2002 to pray for the end of conflict and the promotion of true peace, and to come together, especially Christians and Muslims, to declare before the world that re­ ligion must never become a cause of conflict, hatred and violence (Angelus, 18 November 2001).

In a renewed spirit of A ssisi, gratefully recalling the Day of Prayer for Peace on 27 October 1986, which offered the world a moving witness and was the prelude to historic change in the countries of Eastern Europe, the Holy Father has issued an invitation to come to Assisi on 24 January 2002, and this has been widely and generously accepted by Representatives of the Churches, Ecclesial Communities and the great religions of the world.

The Day of Prayer for Peace is being held in Assisi, in the shadow of Saint Francis, the Poverello di Dio who witnessed to non-violence, to peace with all people, and to harmony with all of creation...

Written by Piero Marini, Titular Bishop of Martirano, Master of the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff.

Pope John Paul II and other Christian leaders pray inside the Basilica of St Francis in Assisi, Italy, on Jan 24.

Beautiful religious exhortations vs stark reality ^From Page 1 to God in full awareness of his holy will and in obedience to it. Only then will God hear our prayers and grant us and all mankind true peace on earth, he said.

Rabbi Israel Singer, secretary general of the World Jewish Con­ gress, followed little of his prepared text, instead telling Pope John Paul, Only you can make this happen, and telling the other leaders that only by fostering commitments to peace among their faithful can reli­ gions turn their potential for peace­ making into a concrete reality.

You should tell your people and we should tell ours, all of us — all of us — to question whether land or places are more important than peo­ ple s lives and, until we learn to do that, there will be no peace, the rabbi said.

History, he said, has shown that despite beautiful religious exhorta­ tions to be a force of peace, the reality has been that, in practice, religions have served to foment scores of horrendous and bloody wars.

We must remember that in no religion are we commanded to kill indiscriminately, and those who have taught otherwise have done so by hijacking and distorting the religions in whose name they speak, he said.

Sheikh Mohammed Tantawi of al-Azhar University in Egypt and spiritual leader of the world s Sunni

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Rome

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Location: 80 miles north of Rome on Mount Subasio in Umbria Population: about 4,000 Annual Visitors: 4-5 million 1 Main Feature: Basilica of St. Francis, built on spot where he died

John Paul U during 2002 pilgrimage:

<. 2002 CNS Graphics

"...he like Francis of Assisi, gentle and courageous guardians of true peace, based on justice and forgiveness, truth and mercy!”

6 Only you can make this happen.?

— Rabbi Israel Singer Secretary General of the World Jewish Congress, to the pope Muslims sent a message to the gathering thanking the pope for his initiative and explaining Islam s fi­ delity to God, its precept of respect

for all m onotheistic religions revealed by God and its emphasis on moral values.

All the monotheistic religions preach that the human being should support law and justice, restoring the legitimate proprietors to their rights, he said, making his refer­ ence to tensions in the Holy Land obvious by thanking the Vatican for its honourable support of the Pal­ estinian people.

After sharing the testimonies for peace, Pope John Paul and Patriarch Bartholomew led the Chris­ tians from 17 Orthodox churches and 14 Anglican and Protestant com­ munities into the lower basilica for an ecumenical prayer service.

Well-wishers wave to the pope as he heads to Assisi by train, Jan 24.

Standing at the edge of the crowd, a priest from majority-Muslim Sudan watched the enthusiasm with a sombre expression on his face.

This shows the possibility of bringing different religions together, Fr Romeo Todo said, but it is a far cry from the reality on the ground.

Fr Todo, a priest from Khartoum who studies in Rome, said relations with Muslims in his country were good at the level of words, but in the government s treatment of Chris­ tians there is a lot of force that pushes toward Islam.

He said he hoped the aca­ demic interreligious commitment of the Assisi gathering eventually would filter down to local realities.

It may take time, and it won t be perfection right away, but I am op­ timistic, the priest said. □ c n s

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

Vatican InterReligious Forum VATICAN CITY— I dare to say that many of us are corrupt. We don t live up to the standards we preach.

We are the cause of more blood­ shed and pain in history than any other (class of people).

This impassionate statement was made by Hindu leader, Swamiji Agnivesh of India during an inter­ religious forum on the eve of the Jan 24 day of prayer for peace.

Where is our opposition to reli­ gious fanaticism, social injustice, unequal opportunities that goes be­ yond the palatable goody-goody talk of Sunday sermons? he asked the gathering of religious representatives.

He asked them to turn a critical eye on themselves, especially in how well they took the concerns of the world s poor to heart.

About 200 religious leaders from 12 traditions took part in the infor­ mal three-hour exchange. Of the 28 participants who requested the mi­ crophone in five-minute slots, eight Muslims — the most of any group — spoke.

Half of the Muslims speeches directly referred to the suffering of the Palestinians as the cause of Middle East violence. Another two, in veiled references, condemned injustices like occupation of other people s lands.

What makes us suffer the most is the abuse that is made of religion, said Hajjatoleslam Ghomi, a Shite Muslim leader from Iran.

Islam is opposite to any abuse of religion, contrary to violence, contrary to terrorism , to the occupation of other peoples land and to the violation of natural and individual human rights, he said.

Striking a milder tone, Lebanon s Mohammad Sammak said compro­ mise should be sought in all areas that do not involve the absolute truth of divinely revealed religious doctrine.

Seeking perfect justice for your community or cause might be ideo­ logically satisfying, but it is not com­ patible with peace, because peace is built on compromise painted in shades of gray, not black and white, he said.

Most of the other religious lead­ ers who spoke used the brief time to describe the central beliefs of their faiths and how they related to peace.

Participants in the event repre­ sented Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Tenrikyo, Shintoism, Jainism, Sikhism, Hinduism, Zoro­ astrianism, Confucianism and tradi­ tional African religions. Every group except Jews spoke. □ c n s

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FEBRUARY 3 -1 0 , 2002

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

'VIEWPOINT Harmony and Dialogue

CATHOLIC NEWS EDITOR Dr (Rev) Robert P. Balhetchet MANAGER Rev Fr Johnson Fernandez STAFF CORRESPONDENTS Rev Fr Richards Ambrose Christopher Khoo Mel Diamse-Lee 2 HIGHLAND RD #01-03, SINGAPORE 549102 TEL: 858-3055, FAX NO. 858-2055 E-MAIL cathnews@catholic.org.sg

From the Pews : We owe this title to a reader who “dropped” it quite casually. Your views are most welcome. We may not be able to print your fetters in full but we will endeavour to answer all queries.

If you wish to write to us, please include your full name, address and contact number.

HARMONY and dialogue have suddenly become buzzwords in an attempt to prevent an isolation of Islam if not an alienation of this religion from the rest of the religions and faiths that people around the world profess. In our own Singapore, the situation of Islam was not helped by the announcement of the arrests following the disclosures of shocking incubating plans.

How are we to view all this? Certainly, it has to be said that no religion can boast of being composed totally of saints, canon­ ized or otherwise. Every religion has its fair share of the other category, but this is no reason for anyone to condemn all the followers of any religion to the place that is associ­

BY DR (REV) ated with that other category. However, while ROBERT P. everyone recognizes the need for promoting har­ BALHETCHET mony and dialogue between people of differing religions and cultures there is a need to be very clear about what harmony and dialogue are all about.

Harmony in musical terms refers to the pleasant combination of several different notes — each note preserves its own identity but together they produce a combination of different sounds that blend and are pleasing to the ears. The application of the meaning of this musical term to the relationship between cultures and religions is obviously highly desirable. Achieving harmony would preserve the identity of the different religions and cultures whilst at the same time producing a unity of purpose.

Dialogue on the other hand is described as a communication or discussion between individuals or groups of people. The defini­

tion says nothing of the outcome of such a communication or discussion which could well be an agreement to disagree! Pope Paul VI, in a landmark, though somewhat controversial, Encyclical Letter entitled His Church (Ecclesiam Suam) which he issued during the actual debates of Vatican II on the text of the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church (Lumen Gentium), defined dialogue as a common search for truth on the part of all parties in the dialogue.

It is not a question of one party claiming to have the truth and trying to get the other/s to accept and adopt this point of view. Nor is it an agreement to disagree giving rise to a much flaunted (and supposedly desirable) attitude of mutual tolerance! Unfortunately, though, these two notions are often mistaken for dialogue.

True dialogue must start from a premise that the parties concerned step out from their own positions and listen to the positions of each other with the purpose of finding common ground from which they can all proceed in their search for truth. The search for truth is a continual one, but whatever common ground is discovered can and should be the basis for common action together.

In our Singapore context where there is diversity of culture and religion (bearing in mind that the two are very closely intertwined) the need to identify this common ground is imperative and the need to embark on common action together is even more imperative, because it is in and through shared action that even more common ground will be uncovered. Unfortunately, the greatest area of common ground for action is not being exploited, but rather, it is being artificially divided! □

FROM THE PEWS

Let s take a bold stand on religious harmony!

IT IS encouraging to read the clear affirmations for religious harmony in recent news both in Catholic News and the general media.

Today it has become a stark fact: Religious harmony is crucial to the survival of civilization. We have seen the doomsday scenario of the alternative: terrorism and counter­ terrorism!

And for us Singaporeans with our different religions, religious harmony is a sine qua non for our continued existence as a nation.

But, though essential, will those sentiments of peace and amity expressed at top level dialogues seep down to the grassroots-level followers of each faith? We cannot tell otherfaiths what to do to achieve such permeation intotheground.butl believe we Catholics can and should do something to saturate religious harmony into our roots.’

I offer one idea for consideration by our church leaders. Let us include special services in ourchurch calendar

year to celebrate Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali and Vesak Day (or aspects thereof) in our own way -- as a mark of common felicitation and respect and solidarity with fellow-Singaporeans of other faiths. This will be a positive statement of harmony categorically endorsed by our Catholic population, and institutionalised into an annual re-affirmation. And if the media helps to publicise them, such celebrations will surely generate goodwill from those of other beliefs.

Hopefully, this will stimulate leaders of other faiths to do likewise — each one doing something significant within the very heart of our different worship practices to affirm (and continue to affirm), respect and show goodwill towards those of other religions.

In this way we close ranks firmly as family, as we must in order to survive.

Whateverour religion or race, all under heaven are one family (f/en xia yi jia).

Goh Sin Tub Singapore

On changes and change DR (REV) Robert Balhetchet s article on Changes And Change (CN, Jan 20-27) commented on the postings of the clergy in the archdiocese at the beginning of this year.

He viewed such a change as necessary for the renewal of the archdiocese. But he also sensed that such an exercise could result merely in a musical-chair-change of faces and responsibilites and nothing more.

He noted that 40 years after Vati­ can II, the invigorating fresh breeze of change that was brought into the Church had resulted in little real change, although Vatican 11had more to offer in terms of real change.

Dr Balhetchet s concern is not with­ out grounds.Real change can only take place if our attitudes change and attitudinal change requires real con­ viction. The unprecedented postings could be a test of whether there would be a real change.

To begin with, tothe cynic, the present

act of posting the clergy to various par­ ishes may suggest a cosmetic touch-up.

But bearing inmind theachievements of Archbishop Nicholas Chia when he was a parish priest, the sudden uprooting of halfthe local clergy is notan activity that an action-oriented person, such as the archbishop, would lightlyundertake ifhe is not confident of a real change.

However, a posting even for the better is never a comfort if one is at ease with a former routine or milieu.

But if the comfort level is taken into account, then the basis that the Church Is Mission will lose its essence. As Dr Balhetchet pointed out, real change can only come about through a change in attitudes and that s the rub.

I share Dr Robert Balhetchet s concern but I also hope that only good will emerge from Archbishop Chia s momentous decision. I look forward to the new breeze of change.

Sebastian Teo Wah Ann Singapore

Priests transfers: What does it take to become a true follower of Christ?

WHEN I first heard of the reshuffle of Catholic priests throughout Singa­ pore, I was taken aback. I had heard rumours that my parish priest was leaving for another church. I was shocked and upset. The news meant that I was no longer to see the priest who baptised me, solemnised my marriage, blessed my home and bap­ tised my child, every Sunday morning.

I was to miss his benevolent smile, his fatherly ways. At that moment, I did not understand why Archbishop Nicholas Chia had even contem­ plated such a decision. Was this going to be our new archbishop s legacy, and so early in his term?

The newspaper reports did not help the situation. Flashed on the front page, the headlines stared glar­ ingly into my eyes, declaring officially the never-been-done-before-reshuffle of priests within the Catholic Church.

The interviews even cited that some priests were reluctant to leave their parish after working with their church communities for more than a decade.

I remained upset with the deci­ sion to have my parish priest relocated to another church. I con­ templated the numerous options I believed I had. I could join my parish priest in his new church, or source out another church in my district and join its community, or go to another district and follow another priest whom I felt was comfortable with.

Then one day, while reading the Bible, it dawned on me that I was look­ ing at the whole situation from a wrong perspective. The theme of discipleship came to my mind as I contemplated this major change. What does it mean to be a disciple; what does it take to be a true follower of Christ?

Jesus had told his disciples, If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me (Matthew 16:24).

(Priests moving to new communities can use tfiis new beginning to bring about changes to Singapore's Catfioiic churches.

In another passage, a rich man asked Jesus what he had to do to inherit eternal life. Jesus replied, You lack one thing, go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come follow me. When the rich man heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions. (Mark 10:17 — 31) For me, these passages highlight an important point: to be disciples and followers of Christ, we have to give up everything, all that we are comfort­ able with, the things we are used to, carry our crosses and follow Jesus.

It was this way when Jesus called his first disciples Peter and Andrew.

He said to them, Follow me, and I will make you fish for people. Immediately, Peter and Andrew left their nets and followed Jesus. This was the same with James and John. When Jesus called them, they immediately left their boat and their father and followed Jesus. (Matthew 4:18-22) Jesus calling of Peter, Andrew, James and John have something in common. When He called them to follow Him, the four men immedi­ a tely left everything; fam ily, livelihood, town, friends and all the things they were used to.

We all know what happened in the end: they were rewarded with the

grace to witness first hand the life of Jesus, our saviour. They were trans­ formed by the experience that they went on to spread the message of Jesus love to all peoples.

Today, we have the opportunity to see this rotation of priests in a similar vein. Priests moving to new communities can use this new begin­ ning to bring about changes to Singapore s Catholic churches. They can reinvigorate the faith of Sunday Catholics by bringing to them the joy and beauty of God s message and good news.

As leaders of parish communities, the priests can help more Catholics to spread the Good News in Singapore with new insights into the Bible and enhance our laity s spiritual gifts.

Parishioners, on the other hand, can take this opportunity to be true disciples of Christ; give up everything they are used to, take up their cross and follow Jesus. They can use their experience and contacts to help their new priests adjust and build even better parish communities.

Welcome the new priests, make them feel at home and give them all the support and encouragement we can muster so that a firm foundation can be built and all people can learn of Christ s love. For what is a good church other than strong faith and deep spirituality from both priests and parishioners!

True Christian discipleship is dif­ ficu lt and filled with sacrifice.

However, this discipleship is based on the invitation of Christ Himself.

Jesus called Peter, Andrew, James and John to be his disciples; they did not ask to follow Him. It is indeed our privilege and honour to have Christ call us personally to Come, follow me! for no one is able to follow Jesus without His invitation.

Laurence Lai Singapore

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FEBRUARY 3 -1 0 , 2002

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THE CATHOLIC NEWS

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ire J L in Bulletin o f the Fam ily Life Society, Archdiocese o f Singapore

FAMILY LIFE SOCIETY The Family Life Society is a non-profit organisation registered under the Societies Act of Singapore in 1985. It was established under the auspices of the Catholic Archbishop of Singapore to make the family apostolate a priority of the local Church.

We aim to promote a deeper understanding and respect for marriage, family and human life and to make our services available to all.

PROGRAMMES AND SERVICES Family and Marital Therapy (Counselling Services) 6488 0278 A confidential service managed and provided by experienced family and marital therapists for those with marital, psychological and social problems.

Celebration of Life 6488 0287 A Pro-life programme on human sexuality education for chastity and the promotion of the sanctity of life message, thus promoting the culture of life in society. If you would like to book a session, please contact COL. Pregnancy Crisis Service 6339 9770/ 6488 0281 A hotline service for teenagers facing unwanted pregnancies, and who are likely to turn to abortion as an easy way out.

Youth Life-Line 6252 6300 A youth crisis hot line offering help for youth in distress.

Joyful Parenting 6488 0286 A hotline service to support breastfeeding mothers and help parents cope with family life.

Catholic Legal Aid Services 6488 0278 Provides legal advice on family-related matters to members of the general public.

AFFILIATE ORGANISATIONS Marriage Encounter 6281 6468 A weekend stay-in programme for married couples to look more deeply into their relationship with each other and with God. Engaged Encounter 6245 8371 A marriage preparation stay-in weekend programme for engaged couples.

Choice 9307 7752 / 9671 0767 A weekend stay-in programme for singles between 18 and 32, with the aim of helping one know oneself and in relationships with family, friends and the larger community.

Marriage Preparation Course 6256 6353 A six-weekend programme for engaged couples preparing for marriage.

Retrouvaille 6346 1927 (Hotline)/ 6752 5057 For troubled marriages (including separated or divorced couples) who want their marriage to work.

Couples For Christ 6386 3836 A family life renewal programme for singles and married couples to look more deeply into their relationship with each other and with God. Natural Family Planning 6256 8123 Based on the knowledge of the fertility periods during a woman's menstrual cycle, it is the only morally acceptable form of family planning allowed by the Church as it is in accordance with the moral natural law.

HOPE 6488 0278 A peer support group for the divorced, separated and widowed.

CONTACT US For more information, pis check our website at http://www.familylife.org.sg

By Joseph & Terri Kwok and Rev Fr Ambrose Vaz With Valentine's Day just around the corner, perhaps you and your loved one are planning your future together as a couple. At Catholic Engaged Encounter (CEE), we have been preparing couples who plan to spend their lives together through our stay-in weekend programme.

CEE Singapore was started in 1982 w ith its first weekend held in September 1982 at ME House attended by 12 couples. As at January 2002, 280 weekends have been conducted and currently, 18 weekends are conducted each year with an average of 30-32 couples attending each weekend.

The CEE weekend provides an excellent opportunity for couples who wish to deepen their relationship.

It is also a time for them to discern where they are in their com m itm ent to each other, even if they have not decided on a wedding date or are not engaged.

If couples are engaged or have planned to get married, we encourage them to attend CEE as early as six months to a year earlier, before their planned wedding date. One reason is that it w ill give them tim e to prepare well for the life-long commitm ent they are about to enter. The other reason being, weekends are usually filled three months ahead of time.

Our weekends presently comprise approximately 60 per cent inter-faith couples and remaining forty per cent Catholic couples. The weekend w ill give the non-Catholic partner a deeper appreciation of marriage as a Sacrament and a Vocation. At the same time, it will also challenge the single Catholic

partner to find the roots of his/her faith and to keep it strong in the marriage.

Since our inception, we have been blessed with enthusiastic presenters, some of whom are grandparents and others who have young children.

But like many lay ministries, we are always in need of volunteers in areas such as prayer letters, house couples in the supplies area and many others.

Presenting priests are also needed and this is another area we pray constantly to our Lord to send us workers for the harvest (cf Mt9:37).

To keep in touch w ith our participants, CEE organises quarterly follow-up sessions at parishes.

To help our com m unity grow in faith, we hold m onthly prayer sessions at couples' homes and celebrate Mass quarterly, which is open to all in the CEE community. Social gatherings are also organised around Easter, Christmas and even midAutumn festival to help foster a closer relationship between our com m unity and our children.

We have also gone online and have our own website under the " www.catholic.org.sg/ceespore" site with links to the Family Life Society and its other programmes and affiliates. We plan to have online registration for weekends available by March/April 2002.

To ensure our programme and contents stay relevant, our presenters attend presenters' meetings every three months and "Sweep" sessions every tw o years to review their weekend materials and for growth enrichment.

As w ith all lay ministries, CEE faces challenges.

With the demands of our fast-paced city life, many participating couples approach the weekend with apprehension, often feeling that they have been "forced" to attend. Many young couples, after attending the weekend, are unable to com m it to serve in CEE because of constraints brought about by their careers, social activities and families. For parents, the demands of the education system mean that they have to spend more tim e at home supervising their children in their studies.

In terms of outreach, CEE Singapore has been able to reach out to CEE communities in Malacca and Penang, Malaysia. It is indeed a great jo y to see them growing in numbers and enthusiasm. CEE Singapore has helped these communities in training their presenters and presenting in some of their weekends.

Nevertheless, we still look with confidence to the challenges ahead of us. We pray that the Lord continue to bless and guide us as we help prepare couples for their vocation and life-long commitment. We pray for all couples that they will answer the call to love and wish all a Happy Valentine's Day.

F A IT H , R E S P O N S IB IL IT Y & T H E C A T H O L IC F A M IL Y ~ Excerpts from a talk by James Wong at Marymount Convent School Do you consider the family to be in crisis in today's world? What with approximately 5,000 divorces and 14,000 abortions in Singapore alone last year, the stresses and strains of modern living and a two-income family trying to make ends meet, embryonic stem cell research, the recent cloning of human beings in Massachusetts USA, legalising of same-sex marriages in certain western countries - one can't be faulted to believe that the family is in danger of becoming obsolete!

However, a person is born first into a family, out of a loving union of parents who share in a major project that God has reserved only for them - the genuine creation on their part (with God's collaboration) of living beings, their own children. Couples may have similar cars, houses, TV sets... but no one can have fhe/rchildren. How could a couple not look on the project of their children as the greatest and most precious of all their projects since it is the direct and miraculous fruit of their union?

Thus, the family environment is the first and normal place for forming children and young people and to develop good Christian virtues. As the domestic church, the family is the school of the richest humanity.

The Catholic family is therefore capable of offering

Volunteers Needed!

J o y fu l P a re n tin g Calling all Moms! If you have time to share, please join us at Joyful Parenting. We are a group of volunteer moms dedicated to supporting mothers who breastfeed and helping parents cope with the demands of family life. All we need is at least three hours of your time each week to man our hotline service from your home. You will also be able to attend a breastfeeding training session at a hospital. Please call us at 6488 0286 for more details.

P re g n a n cy C risis S ervice The Pregnancy Crisis Service (PCS) is inviting volunteers to man its hotline. No experience is required as training will be provided. If you are a Catholic and are interested in helping teenagers with unwanted pregnancies, please call 6339 9770.

an atmosphere filled with the love for God that makes an authentic reciprocal gift possible.

Recognising this, the Second Vatican Council's Declaration on Education emphasizes that it is imperative to give suitable and timely instruction to young people, above all in the heart of their own families, about the dignity of married love, its role and its exercise. Because parents have given life to their children, they are seriously obliged to educate them and, therefore, they are the first and primary educators. This duty of educating their children is so important that, where it is lacking, it can hardly be substituted. It is, then, an obligation of parents to create an atmosphere in the family inspired by love, by piety towards God and towards man, and which favors an integrated and social education. The family, for that reason, is the first school for social human virtues, which all societies need. Above all, in the Christian family, enriched by grace through the sacrament and duties of marriage, the children should learn from their early years to know, to feel and to worship God and to love their neighbors according to the faith received in baptism. In the family they feel the first experience of a sound and healthy society of people and of the Church. Through the family, the children can be introduced early into civil society and

into the Church of God. Parents should consider carefully, therefore, the importance that a truly Catholic family has for the life and progress of God's creation.

Pope John Paul II in Familiaris Consortio states that the "Right and duty of parents to give education is essential, irreplaceable and inalienable." When one thinks of the dangers of pornography, especially on the internet, and the constant battering influence of the media and society (movies, TV, magazines, bad company, etc) regarding casual sex, one becomes more aware of the need to be faithful to God, and to exercise personal moral responsibility. In a Catholic family, love for God at home should be apparent in effectively countering such negative external influences. Prayers before meals, regular times for daily prayers, presence of bibles, meaningful communication and demonstrable spiritual values all help children have positive experiences, and help them be better disposed to live according to those normal truths that they see practiced in their parents' lives.

Thus the challenge to you of establishing your family as God intends - loving one another and being loved - is clearly a personal one. You, as a parent, must make the difference.

Celebration of Life Sexuality Trainers' Camp Celebration of Life, a pro-life programme on and JC students are strongly encouraged human sexuality education, will be holding to attend. Participants will be trained in •S its Sexuality Trainers' stay-in weekend camp topics such as human sexuality, chastity, from 15-17 March 2002 at IHM Retreat Centre, bio-ethics, Catholic moral teachings, 46 Kovan Road. communication skills and basic leadership and motivational skills.

W ho is the cam p for?

Young adults involved in youth ministries, We received good response for last year's catechesis and family life education, school camp and participants have found the counselors as well as undergraduates, pre-U camp useful for their work and ministries.

H o w much w ill it cost?

A nominal fee of $30 per person to defray accommodation, meals and material costs.

How do I sign up?

Please sign up online at www.prolife.org.sg or email andrewk@veritas.org.sg. For more information, please contact Andrew Kong at Tel: 6488 0287.

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

COMMENTARY

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FEBRUARY 3 -1 0 , 2002

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Assisi came about in the aftermath of the so-called September 11 events and it generated a lot of euphoria. A certain Archbishop often said and probably still says: When all is said and done, there is more said than done! Hopefully he will not be proved right yet again in the context of what has been happening in recent months in terms of a realization that there is a dire need for races, cultures and religions to re-examine their relationships to one another.

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There appears to be, however, one avenue for a meeting of hearts and minds which presents fewer

Joint efforts In multi-cultural and multi-religious Singapore such opportunities abound since material need knows no barriers. While these opportunities are indeed seized as and when they are presented on the level of individuals, it would appear that on the official level they are sedulously avoided, perhaps not deliberately but simply as a sort of continuation of what was done, or not done, in the past. On the level of actual outreach, there is no conscious discrimination.

One could say somewhat safely

Will the heads o f religions fin d it ju st as easy to express in action what they expressed in prayer? obstacles and pitfalls and yet is little travelled upon. Perhaps we should hasten to add that it is little travelled upon deliberately and consciously, though we would like to believe that it is indeed a much travelled path to which, those who travel thereon, don t even give a second thought.

We are referring to the rendering of help when and where help is needed.

There must be innum erable instances of this in terms of inter­ religious and inter-cultural relationship. However, assistance is rendered without a second thought, in a completely unconscious manner to the point that the participants would not even realize, not to mention being conscious of the fact, that they have been putting aside any considerations of race, religion or culture.

SSTC

YOUR PEST PROBLEMS for

Representatives of the world s religions in Assisi.

without fear of contradiction that all religious organizations would extend their services to anyone regardless of race or religion. But what is pertinent in this endeavour to bring races and religions together is joint cooperative effort in the outreach endeavours themselves. Why can t there be joint organizations made up of different religious groups to reach out to those in various areas of need instead of each organization having its own particular structures to carry out such endeavours?

On national level Even on the national level, it would seem a pity that the various races are segregated in their various efforts to bring relief to those of their particular race who are in some need or another.

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Translating to action Year after year, during the month of January, our Church in Singapore, in union with churches all over the world, observes Church Unity Week. This year, heeding the call of our Holy Father, Unity Week, which normally encompasses only Christian churches, took on the added dimension of including other religions in anticipation of A ssisi. It was great to see representatives of major religions coming together to pray for unity and peace. The event has passed but what will be the followup? Will the grand sentiments expressed be allowed to lie dormant till next January comes around - as has happened year after year in the past? Will the momentum gained result in concrete joint endeavours between the various races and religions in Singapore? Will the heads of religions find it just as easy to express in action what they expressed in prayer? Only time will teil! □

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TO OUR INDONESIAN-SPEAKING FRIENDS: Come and rejoice with us upon our 17th Anniversary thanksgiving celebration: Venue : St Bernadette Church, 12 Zion Rd, Singapore 247731 Date :Sunday 10 Feb. 2002 Time : 3.30pm

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FEBRUARY 3 - 10, 2002

A S I A

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Dearly missed by family, loved ones and friends

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Holy Spirit; you who O Holy St Jude, make me see Apostle and Martyr, everything and show great in virtue and rich me the way to reach in miracles, near my ideal. You who kinsman of Jesus give me the divine gift Christ, faithful to forgive and forget intercessor of all who the wrong that is done invoke your special to me and who are in patronage in time of all instances of my life need, to you I have with me. I, in this short recourse from the dialogue, want to thank depth of my heart and you for everything and humbly beg to whom confirm once more that God has given such I never want to be great power to come separated from you no to my assistance. Help matter how great the me in my present and material desires may urgent petition. In be. I want to be with return I promise to you and my loved ones make your name in your perpetual known and cause you glory. Amen. Thank to be invoked. St Jude you St Jude for pray for us and all who answering my prayers. invoke your aid.

James Amen. Grateful thanks for prayers answered.

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Theresa Khoo

Most Holy Apostle, St Jude, I’m sorry for this belated Thanksgiving letter. Thank you so much for favours answered. Please continue to pray for me and my family and bless us too. Thank you once again. With Love: Valerie and Family Faced deep trouble over shipment jeopardy. Experience again your mighty power in resolving problem! Grateful thanks to St Jude!

SY, a Buddhist

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FEBRUARY 3 -1 0 , 2002

THE CATHOLIC NEWS

YOUNG

Dare you to take Lent seriously this time We are glad to report that Fr Michael Sitaram has been discharged from hospital af­ ter receiving two "stents" to correct his heart problem.

We thank the Lord for his recovery, but we need to con­ tinue to pray for his full recovery.

We welcome feedback and comments from our youth readers who have something to share with other readers.

This page is specially dedicated to you!

By Al R Dizon Dare you climb up that water tank!

If you were a normal kid, it probably made you feel as if you just had to run out and do whatever that dare was about. And I was a normal kid.

I d been challenged, and I wasn t about to back down, right?

That spherical water tank, whose diameter must have been about 50 meters, rose 30 meters above the ground and looked like a UFO. And it was just across the street from my school.

With my friend June in tow (whom I also dared), in full view of my beloved school principal and school assembly, we rose to the challenge.

And we got an afternoon s detention at school and several strokes of the school paddle from the discipline mistress (who happened to be my late mum, bless her soul!) for that act.

But had anybody bothered to dare me to take Lent seriously, I wouldn t have been able to accept the challenge. Just imagine giving up my Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn and Lord Of The Rings, and

Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, when the imposition of ashes is traditionally administered. But in Singapore this year, the imposition of ashes, as well as fasting and abstinence will be observed on Feb 15. bothered to pick up this copy of The cutting down my chewing gum con­ Catholic News, read it and actually sumption to just three sticks a week. reach this page. So, I challenge you I mean, only three sticks!!! And I was to take a few minutes out of your life a kid!!!

I am sure teenagers and youths and reflect on what Lent is really all about. won t mind, being more intelligent, Dare you to confront that whole older and wiser. And I am sure you issue of charity as an adult, even are all better Catholic youths than I temporarily. Ponder the whole con­ was last time. I wasn t even a Sun­ cept of charity , the unhesitating act day Catholic. Only a catechism class of giving or doing something good for Catholic (I even swiped all the major someone instead of giving up stuff. catechism prizes available in town!

Think about how many important But that is all; rest of the time I was things in life require charity . Hey, goofing around.) being a good athlete or netball player So I am sure you can take this requires you to give your time to dare. Best of all, you d like to be your school team: Two-hour prac­ treated as adults. And you ve even

Teens innovate to explain the rosary MADISON, NEW JERSEY, USA — In short, action-packed workshop sessions, a Catholic teen group called The Holy Bandits explains the rosary to religious education stu­ dents in the Paterson Diocese.

The group, from Bayley-Ellard Catholic High School in Madison, uses skits, songs, prayers, activities and videos in their rosary education outreach. Members tell stories that reveal the power of the rosary and urge students to daily pray a decade of the rosary to promote peace.

It s older teens talking to younger teens, which seems more meaningful to the younger kids, said Sr Anne McKeon, a member of the Grey Nuns Of The Sacred Heart and pastoral associate at Our Lady Of Mercy Parish in Whippany.

At the beginning of a recent work­ shop at St Rose Of Lima in East Hano­ ver, Kevin Clayton, Bayleys football captain, got typically talkative and active teens to focus on the rosary message

by telling them to chill out and relax.

We believe in the power of the rosary, said Nicole Betz, one of 14 seniors in the Holy Bandits. It s a comfort — a place to turn. Ifc prayer

that comes from the heart, she told The Beacon, Paterson s diocesan newspaper.

During the workshops, the Holy Bandits usually explain the 15 mys­ teries of the rosary and then distrib­ ute rosaries to the students and pray a decade of the prayers with them.

The mysteries were not about re­ viewing the facts (of Jesus life), but about feeling what happened, Bridget Sweetin, a member of the student group wrote in a recent rosary reflection.

The mysteries act as a glimpse into Mary s eyes. It s living what hap­ pened as Mary saw it. No one pains more over the loss of a child than a mother, and experiencing losing one s only son is powerful, she wrote.

Students seal their commitment to peace by signing the Holy Ban­ dits peace banner. The prayer group also prays the rosary before each re­ ligion class and attends Mass off campus on what it calls Tuesdays With Mary . 'O c n s

Take a few minutes of your life and reflect on what Lent is really all about.

Confront that whole issue of "doing good" instead of "giving up" stuff. “ Ponder the whole concept of "charity".

tices out on the field, shooting prac­ tice on the hardcourt under the blazing sun, wearing yourself out in the gym and getting up early Satur­ day morning for a two-hour run aren t exactly pleasurable experiences. But you give your time, anyway. Charity.

Likewise in relationships. Being happy in your relationships with friends and family also requires the willingness to give your time, your shoulder to cry on. Charity. And it s just like that with God. Being close to God and living within God s com­ fort and peace requires sacrifice too.

We have to examine our lives closely, all the time, for those things

that are keeping us from God. Some­ times those things are sinful, and sometimes they re just a waste of precious time, energy and focus. So what we do during Lent is try to put a microscope to the stuff in our lives that is keeping us from being closer to God. For some of us it s alcohol or sexual sin that s working at de­ stroying our best selves. For some it s the hours we spend in front of mindless entertainment. For some it s just plain, shut-the-door-in-everyone s-face selfishness.

So I dare you. Dare you to haul out that microscope and take a look.

Dare you to think about Jesus and how much he loves you.

■ Dare you to perform an act of mercy in one of our hospices. No need to bring food, music (which is probably hip hop which the hospice residents probably would have prob­ lems coming to grips with), laughter.

Just be there and touch them.

■ Dare you to participate in a church project such as a Lenten musical. You don t have to be the main star.

■ Dare you to be charitable to your family. Open the door to your room and face the rest of your family as though they re human beings, not impositions on your freedom.

■ Dare you to go to Mass and confession every single Sunday during Lent, open your heart to God and pray, really pray this time.

■ Dare you give at least 15 min­ utes a day and in silence read God s word and listen to him (Perhaps do the Lectio Divina).

■ Dare you to give your time to the Lord and rest your eyes on Jesus on the cross and not look away after two seconds.

■ Dare you to reflect on the pain he suffered out of love for you.

Dare you.

The author is the Editor and Publisher o f Waypoint Magazine.

DIRECTORY FOR YOUTHS/YOUNG ADULTS Bakhita Search-lnn,

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Catholic Overseas Students Down Under cosdu@ yahoo.com .au or A drian (9836-5217) or D ennis (274-2979).

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Infant Jesus Retreat and Youth Centre, Sr Gerard Lee 7602461/92947521 Fax: 7699369 srtlee@ yahoo.com

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Differences but shared values A S S IS I, Italy — The main emphasis at Pope John Paul II s Jan. 24 interreligious day of prayer for peace in Assisi was to show that followers of different religions shared a common commitment.

But differences among the groups were also on display, even in something as basic to the event as what prayer involves.

The various non-C hristian groups were assigned nine sepa­ rate rooms in a Franciscan convent for an hour of prayer between the events morning and afternoon sessions, while the Christians gath­ ered in the Lower Basilica of St. Francis.

Zoroastrians asked for a room with a window, since they start their prayers by lighting a fire, which they consider to be divine.

For the sake of space, the one Jain and one Confucian repre­ sentative joined them.

Black-cloaked Muslims alter­ nated standing, kneeling and pros­ trating themselves on prayer rugs

in the direction of Mecca, the Islamic holy city in Saudi Arabia.

Saffron-robed Buddhists sunk into meditation.

Followers of Tenrikyoism closed their eyes and slowly waved fans in a m otion that sym bolized sweeping away the dust of self­ ishness and arrogance.

African animists recited chants to ward off evil spirits and invoke the protection of good spirits.

Cardinal W alter Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, said before the January event that even praying in different rooms at the same time witnessed what the religions shared in common.

The cardinal said those val­ ues were respect for God and the divine and the desire for God or the divine; respect for life; and the desire for peace with God or the divine, for peace among peoples and peace in the cosmos. □ CNS

Abode seekers petition Church for help HONG KONG —Abode seekers in Hong Kong have petitioned the Catholic Church to continue sup­ porting their cause after a court denied them residency.

About 150 mainland-born chil­ dren of Hong Kong residents gath­ ered at the Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Jan 20 to ask Cardinal John Baptist Wu Cheng-chung of Hong Kong for support.

They also petitioned at St John s Anglican Cathedral, the Kowloon Mosque and the Wong Tai Sin Taoist temple.

Among the religious commu­ nity, the Catholic Church, most notably Coadjutor Bishop Joseph Zen Ze-kiun of Hong Kong, has been vocal in fighting for the 5,000 abode seekers affected by the court decision.

In an article published on Jan 20 in the English diocesan weekly, Sunday Examiner, Bishop Zen backed a proposal that calls on the government to allow abode seek­ ers already in Hong Kong to stay on humanitarian grounds.

He questioned why the immi­ gration policy, which tramples on the fundamental right of family unity, is being treated as sacrosanct.

The Court of Final Appeal (CFA) ruled on Jan 10 that most but not all of those who came before its last ruling on Jan 29, 1999, can stay without having to apply for an entry permit in the mainland.

However, critics of the latest verdict argue that the Hong Kong Basic Law already entitles children of Hong Kong residents to stay in the territory.

Fr Lawrence Lee Len, the dio­

Members of the Tenrikyo faith praying in Assisi.

A Chinese migrant carries her young son, a Hong Kong resident, as she weeps during a demonstration with hundreds of other Chinese migrants on Jan 20 in Hong Kong. Her card reads, I am a Chinese migrant mother.

I beg the government to allow me to stay behind and feed my baby.

CNS photo from Reuters

cese s chancellor who received the Jan 20 petition on behalf of Cardi­ nal Wu, told the media that the abode seekers have the right to stay according to the first ruling of the latest CFA in 1999.

Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Christian Council issued a state­ ment on Jan 22 expressing regret over the CFA ruling. It stressed the importance of family unity and ex­ pressed sympathy to those who lost their case in the ruling.

It also urged Hong Kong Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa to con-

sider extending a special conces­ sion to those needing medical or special care and those who need to stay in Hong Kong to take care of sick and infirm family members.

Earlier, Secretary for Security Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee reiterated that there will be no amnesty for abode seekers who fail to return to the mainland to apply for an entry permit before the grace period ends on March 31. Some 100 abode seekers have already returned to the m ainland after the CFA announced its ruling. □ u c a n

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Auction to aid Afghan refugees VATICAN CITY -^The Vatican s mis­ sionary office auctioned off donated jewellery and silver objects, raising nearly US$16,000 (S$29,000) for Afghan refugees.

The centrepiece items at the Jan 10 auction were two carved ivory tusks donated by Pope John Paul II, who received them on trips to Nigeria and India. They sold for US$1,400 and US$2,000.

Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, pre­ fect of the Congregation For The Evangelization Of Peoples, said he hoped to make the auction an an­ nual event coinciding with World Mission Sunday and dedicated to a humanitarian cause chosen by the pope.

The auction, held in a 17thcentury chapel at the congregation s offices in Piazza di Spagna, drew about 50 people.

The 110 auction items — less than half of which were sold — in­ cluded silver bowls, crystal vases, china, antique watches, pearl neck­ laces and small diamond rings. Do­ nated to the congregation by cardinals, bishops, nuns and lay people, the objects ranged in starting

Afghan refugees will benefit from the auction of the items previously donated to the Vatican. price from about US$50 to US$1,500.

I am very, very satisfied, Car­ dinal Sepe told reporters after­ wards. He said the proceeds would go to refugee aid programmes run by the new apostolic prefecture in Quetta, Pakistan, along the border with Afghanistan. □ c n s

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