Catholic Observer Magazine September 2013 Issue

Volume 48, No. 3 SEPTEMBER 2013 $2.00

Welcome Home!

Diocesan Pilgrimage WYD Rio 2013

Bishop’s Message Word and Faith Groups

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ollowing our Diocesan Assembly, the Council of Priests and the newly formed Assembly Council met with me to begin to process what we had learned and to chart a way ahead. Last month, on the Solemnity of St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop, I published a Pastoral Letter to announce the first steps we are taking to renew and rebuild our community of faith.

The Letter was entitled “In the Beginning, the Word,” and you can read the full text on our website at www. bathurst.catholic.org.au. The title emphasised that the foundation of all our work must be Christ himself, whom everyone can meet in Sacred Scripture. There, they can discover the faith that leads to participation in the community of the Church and her Sacraments.

In the Beginning, the Word A Pastoral Letter to God’s People of the Diocese of Bathurst

I Dear Friends in Christ, On Pentecost Sunday every year the Church remembers the day she began to live her mission: to proclaim the Gospel of Christ and make disciples of all peoples.

On the weekend of Pentecost this year, over 250 members of our local Church gathered in Bathurst to ask the Holy Spirit to renew our understanding of that mission, as we are called to live it here and now.

It was only a first step, but that is how every journey must begin.

We have begun to call leaders who will What did we learn? And where do we go from here? be prepared to set up small groups in parishes. These Word and Faith groups will reflect together during the week on the readings for the following Sunday.

They will work closely with the Parish Priest, whose own faith and whose homilies will be nourished, too.

The groups will not be about the academic study of scripture. That has its place, but not here. Nor will they be discussion groups, either over-structured or going round in circles. They are to be simple meetings with Christ, who is the Word of God, present in the scriptures, speaking to the lives of those who gather to listen and share what touches or puzzles them.

I hope that these groups will be able to invite and welcome also those who are distant from the Church, or have never been inside.

I invite you to join a group when they begin in your parish or school. I can promise that the Word of God, received with an open heart, will give you new life. + Michael McKenna Bishop of Bathurst

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‘Be A Light To The World’

Centacare’s 25 years of service join many people in giving thanks to God for the 25 years service of Centacare Bathurst.

From small beginnings, those who have worked for and guided Centacare, have made a substantial contribution to our mission to proclaim the Gospel in acts of service and justice.

Pope Francis has said that he seeks a Church of the poor and for the poor.

I pray that this spirit of sharing life with our brothers and sisters in trouble and in need will mark our community of faith, including Centacare.

The current Director, Mr Robert George, has rightly paid tribute to the work of his predecessors, Sister Mary Comer and Ms Vivienne Llewellyn.

I would like to express similar appreciation to Robert for his great blend of professionalism and faith in leading Centacare. + Michael McKenna Bishop of Bathurst

Centacare Sunday Feature on Pages 12 and 13.

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 2

Cathedral of St. Michael and St. John Bells ring out

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n Friday 9th August 2013, the bells were removed from the tower of the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. John - the start of a labour of love to restore this iconic building.

Since its beginnings as a parish church in 1861, the Cathedral has been central to the life of the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst, which spans a large area of New South Wales, as well as to the wider Bathurst community.

Due to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2015, the Cathedral is in urgent need of repair. The stone and brickwork have aged and serious salt and rising damp problems threaten the building’s foundations.

Rylstone based stonemasons, Stone Restorations, has been contracted to carry out the first stage of the important preservation work - restoration of the tower, including its intricate sandstone carvings. Renowned architect Edward Gell, who oversaw construction of the Cathedral, is believed to have crafted many of the distinctive sandstone carvings decorating the exterior of the building. Consecrated in 1865, the Cathedral’s heritage value was recognised in June 2012, with its listing on the NSW State Heritage Register.

The two original bells will be sent to their home foundry in England for the repairs necessary to allow them to ring out loud and clear for the sesquicentenary of the Diocese in 2015.

the parish and the community at large. This restoration is a significant undertaking and the support of the Bathurst community is vital to its success.

The Diocese of Bathurst, incorporating An Art Union is currently underway, as the Cathedral Parish, has launched well as the sale of commemorative the Cathedral Restoration Appeal to merchandise and a Corporate raise the funds necessary to repair the Sponsorship program, to be launched The restoration project is expected to damage and to restore the beauty shortly. take four years and cost approximately and function of this historic, much- For more details, and to support this $3 million. The priority of the project is loved public building. The Appeal is great cause, phone 1800 451 760, or to secure the foundations and restore seeking financial assistance from all go to the Diocesan Website - www. damaged elements. levels of government, the Diocese, bathurst.catholic.org.au.

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Diocesan News Bye Bye Bill

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olleagues from both the Chancery/CDF Office and the Catholic Education Office gathered together recently to farewell long standing employee Bill Stewart. Bishop Michael extended his appreciation to Bill for his 24 years of service as groundsman and the wide range of duties his role entailed in support of the various grounds and facilities.

Bill was acknowledged for his generosity of spirit, his commitment to and pride in his work, for the warmth of his relationships with his colleagues and for his loyal and committed service.

Reflecting on the fact that one aspect of the legacy that Bill leaves behind is the beautiful gardens he has cared for over so many years, the following

blessing was invoked: Source of all blessings, you bless us with early spring flowers, the brave ones that shine with joy between dead leaves as they carpet the forest floor on a sunny day, yet bear up under any kind of weather.

May we learn from them, (and from you Bill), the courage that comes with the territory, to bloom where we are planted, and no matter what happens, to radiate joy.

We wish Bill and his wife Cathy, every blessing as they enter this new phase of their lives. After all his years of hard work, may Bill gain great satisfaction from looking back and reflecting on all his great and quiet achievements.

Jenny Allen

Bill and Cathy Stewart at the farewell function at the Oxford Hotel in Bathurst

The Catholic Observer is published by the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst (Diocesan Publications) PO Box 246, Bathurst, NSW, 2795 ph: (02) 6334 6400 fax: (02) 6331 9453 email: observer@bathurst.catholic. org.au Editor/Advertising ~ Fiona Lewis Designer ~ Jacqui Craft Printed by Rural Press Printing Richmond NSW All material in this magazine is copyright and may be reproduced only with the written permission of the Editor.

The Catholic Observer is a member of the Australasian Catholic Press Association and the Australasian Religious Press Association.

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Diocesan News Long serving DFA farewelled

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n Friday 26th July 2013, Bishop McKenna hosted a Diocesan function to farewell and thank Mr Hugh O’Reilly, who served the Diocese of Bathurst for nearly 25 years.

Hugh retired as Diocesan Financial Administrator after commencing work as Manager of the Development Fund back in October 1988.

Through the past three decades, Hugh has been a sound administrator of the temporal goods of the local Church and a valued confidant in their responsibilities to the late Bishop Dougherty, Bishop McKenna and others.

Seeing many changes in the financial structures of the Diocese over the years, Hugh played an integral role in meeting the ever changing challenges the Diocese has faced.

Around 80 people attended the celebration at Matthew Quinn House in honour of Hugh. Wife Mimi, daughters Susan and Therese, Therese’s husband Kevin and their eight month old daughter Emma, along with Hugh’s sister Kath, were among the special guests. Others from across the Diocese included priests, principals, parish secretaries and members of various Diocesan Boards who had worked with Hugh over the past three decades.

Hugh O’Reilly – the Happy Retiree!

In his address, Bishop McKenna thanked his family, “...without whom thanked Hugh for his enormous none of this would have been possible”. contribution to the Diocese and for his Hugh will be busy in his retirement. dedicated and selfless service, which He hopes to spend some quality time was often above and beyond the call with his family, see a bit more of his beautiful grand-daughter Emma and of duty. has undertaken the role of Secretary In his usual humble way, Hugh for the Bathurst Rotary Club. expressed his thanks to all those who had worked with him over the years Thank you Hugh - for all you’ve been Some of Hugh’s colleagues from other and said he had felt privileged to have and for all you’ve done for so many Dioceses were also present, travelling been able to spend so many years over these years. We hope your from Sydney, Armidale and Canberra. working for the Church. Hugh also retirement is a long and happy one.

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Thuc admitted as Candidate for Ordination

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ollowing prayer, reflection and discussion during his time in the Parishes of Coonamble and Coonabarabran, Thuc Van Le was able to arrive at a decision to offer himself for ordination in the service of the Diocese of Bathurst.

Thuc with Bishop McKenna following his Acceptance

On Tuesday 23rd July 2013, Bishop Michael McKenna accepted Thuc’s offer of service and admitted him as a Candidate for Ordination during Mass in St. Lawrence’s Church Coonabarabran, the parish where he has been on pastoral placement.

In the journey towards Priesthood, the next step is Ordination to the Diaconate (transitional) and eventually Ordination to the Priesthood.

Please keep Thuc and our other seminarians in your prayers as they continue their journey of discernment and study.

NCCA Forum

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ishop McKenna recently attended the 8th Forum of the National Council of Churches in Australia and was invited to lead the Ecumenical Service of the Forum.

Held every three years, the theme of this Forum was: “Mission Shaped Ecumenism; What is the call of God for the Church in Australia?”.

Bishop Michael attended as part of the Catholic delegation and took the message to his colleagues in the NCCA that practical ecumenism is alive and well across the parishes of the Diocese of Bathurst.

“The road is not always easy, but we are urged on by the knowledge that it is Christ’s will that his Church should live as one body, proclaiming one faith”, the Bishop said.

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Priestly Milestones

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5 years of priesthood were celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. John on Monday 5th August 2013. Priests from across the Diocese concelebrated Mass with Bishop McKenna and celebrated the golden jubilee of Father John Beaven and the silver jubilee of Father Laurie Beath.

Photo courtesy Chris Seabrook Western Advocate

Unfortunately Father Beaven, who is retired, was unable to attend due to ill health, however he was there in spirit and in the hearts and prayer of those present.

Father Laurie is currently the Parish Priest of Cowra (where he attended school) and is the Administrator of Canowindra (where he was born) and Eugowra parishes.

Following Mass, the priests shared a meal together with Bishop McKenna at Matthew Quinn House.

Congratulations Father Beaven and Father Laurie - and thank you both for so many years of dedicated service to God’s people in the Diocese of Bathurst.

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St. Mary’s School - Wellington

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ishop McKenna recently visited St. Mary’s School in Wellington. As part of his very busy schedule, he visits as many of the schools in the Diocese as he can during the year. The Bishop thinks the visits are important so that students “…know the Bishop is not just a picture on a wall, but comes from a long way away to see and meet them, and that the schools are in our mind and prayers”.

During the visit, the Student Representative Council gave a presentation about the sporting, academic, performing and religious opportunities at the School, as well as taking Bishop McKenna on a tour of the grounds.

“It is a wonderful school. In the Diocese we have some big and very small schools and each has its character and the small schools often, where everyone knows one another, have a very unique spirit”, the Bishop said. “I love coming to this Parish. I am always given a very warm welcome and I think that there are a lot of great people here”.

Principal of St. Mary’s, Simon Price, said the visits were an important part of religious education at the School. “Our mission is to be a Catholic school and we do have a faith and spirit”, he said. “I want kids to experience something that’s not recognised much in contemporary society at all and focus back on what our core aim as a school is”.

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MacKillop College - Bathurst

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ecently, the MacKillop Equestrian Team travelled to Coonabarabran to compete in the North West Equestrian Expo where approximately 650 students and 700 horses were entered, representing 150 schools from NSW. Competition included B, C and D grade Eventing, Combined Training and Cross Country.

Kylie Lynch from MacKillop was placed second in the Working Horse Challenge in the 15 years and Laura McFawn was placed 12th in the 13 years.

The Division Two Polo Cross Team of Gabrielle Newman, Hayley Porter and Mackenzie Siejka was involved in a knockout competition. They won their game and advanced to the next round, where they put up a strong fight before being defeated. The Division One Team of Kylie Lynch, Darcy Simmons and Rachel Hayden was placed in a round robin competition and delegated to C Grade after their games. On Sunday, with excellent skill, they played some very close games and placed third in their Grade.

Sunday also saw the completion of the Eventing and the Combined Training where all the girls gained a number of very respectable placings. Of mention were the team of Kylie Lynch, Mackenzie Siejka and Hayley Porter placing third in The Barrels Sporting Event, out of approximately 170 teams who competed - a fantastic achievement for a group of talented riders.

Congratulations to all the students who competed this year and thank you for your co-operation and display of sportsmanship and comradery.

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James Sheahan Catholic High School - Orange

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12 PDHPE students at Sheahan recently participated in a HSC ‘webinar’. The session provided students with the opportunity to access HSC enrichment sessions (conducted only in metropolitan regions) without leaving the school grounds.

Utilising the internet and data projectors, students were able to view the presentations, complete related workbooks and were able to ask questions and interact with the presenter.

The sessions allowed for great revision in the lead up to the HSC, at minimal cost and reduced interruptions to other subjects. We look forward to future senior students being involved in more webinars.

Mark Pauschman

T

he James Sheahan Dragon Boat team has had huge success in 2013. Coached by Pearl Butcher, the students involved trained hard for eight weeks in the lead up to the Chinese New Year Dragon Boat Regatta held at Darling Harbour. The students juggle a variety of other commitments such as part time jobs, training with other sporting teams and study to train for this sport and their hard work was well rewarded, achieving second and third at the Regatta. This was a huge accomplishment for the James Sheahan students, as they were up against two selective teams from Sydney and the Central Coast, along with other schools who have been in training for much longer. The results in this Regatta allowed the team entry into the National Regatta, however, due to the timing of the event, they were unable to attend. The team will be very sad to farewell the wonderful Y12s who were involved this year, but are excited to resume training with new recruits.

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Vinnies Sleepout

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t St. Patrick’s Lithgow, on the shortest day of the year, minus two degrees didn’t put us off, even if it snuck in through the open air vents. Neither did the hard floorboards, the power failure five minutes before the end of the movie or the trivia questions ... so exactly what is ‘Pacem in Terris’? You might well ask! Apparently we have to ask Pope John XXIII to get the answer... or Sister Anne our resident wellspring of wisdom.

We filed in with enough bedding to set up our own shop. After a friendly getting-to-know-you Bingo game and an ‘All Saints’ warm-up game, it was battle stations - Green v Blue v Red - with points and honour at stake.

Fuelled up with home-made hot soup and bread, we were ready to roll. There were games and prizes galore, with no-one going home empty handed. By 10.30pm we ‘bagsed’ our mattress spots on the floor, ready for the movie marathon. Evidenced by silence, punctuated only by the occasional chatter of teeth or snore, it was deemed all were asleep by 1.30am.

A knock at the door by our faithful Vinnies breakfast crew at 6.30am ushered in the new day. The smell of scrambled eggs and the promise of chocolate milk got most up ready for breakfast. The usual challenge of getting sleeping bags back into their bags and getting remnants of contraband midnight snacks tidied up ensued. By 9am there was scarcely any evidence of the 60 strong crowd who graced the PAC, all in a good cause.

Many thanks are due to all who made it such a great night. Nothing could have been accomplished without team work. The Lithgow Catholic community is strong! Thanks, in particular, goes to the valiant Vincentian crew at Lithgow Vinnies on the night, for their practical help with food, utensils, game equipment, prizes and all manner of support from day one of the organisation, through to the Saturday morning.

Also, we thank Mr Robert Keady and the staff of St. Patrick’s School for the use of facilities and administrative help. A big thank you to staff at La Salle Academy for supporting us.

The event was a great success for the parish team of Father Owen, Sister Anne, Kristy and me. We also thank the many generous donors, participants and their families for supporting our second Sleepout. We smashed our target and raised almost $3,000 for the homeless.

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Centacare Sunday Centacare celebrates 25 years of service and care

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n 26th of September 1988, Bishop Patrick Dougherty blessed and officially launched a ‘one year pilot scheme in the sphere of the Catholic Church’s provision of a counselling service for children, adolescents, and families for the Bathurst part of the Diocese’.

This ‘pilot project’ was Centacare. In his statement he said “how wonderful it would be were the Catholic Church ever to see its way to extending psychological counselling (welfare) services to all the needy families and children of the whole Diocese!” He wondered whether or not ‘this pastoral dream could be a reality”.

From its small and tentative beginning in Rankin Street Bathurst, under the strong and determined leadership of Sr In 2006 when Sister Mary was elected Mary Comer, Centacare took shape to Congregational Leader of the Perthville become the official welfare arm of the Josephites, Ms Vivienne Llewellyn was Church in our Diocese. appointed Director. She retired towards Centacare began with a budget of the end of 2008. Both Mary and $17,000 and a priceless vision. The Vivienne lived the values and principles financial support came from the Catholic which emerge from the Gospel and Education Office and the Diocese. The Catholic social teaching and guided vision was, and still is, grounded in the a team of committed professionals; Gospel: Jesus came into this world so who always knew that what they did that everyone can have life and have wasn’t just another job, but that they it in fullness. Centacare’s vision is for a were part of a mission. Much is owed society in which there is full recognition to these two great leaders. Vivienne of the rights and responsibilities of all, a passed away on 12th June 2012, a society that values families and human day after she was official conferred relationships and promotes the dignity, the OAM award. It was a befitting equality and participation of all its acknowledgement of her immense citizens, especially the vulnerable and contribution to the community and the disadvantaged. welfare sector spanning over more Centacare had its share of growing pains than three decades in many roles. and its infancy was tough. The demand Now, with over ten offices and many for the service was huge and as the solo outreach services across the Diocese, counsellor, Sister Mary had a busy time the ‘pastoral dream’ is more of a reality. managing the fledgling organisation and In the 2012-13 financial year alone, 2,152 the clinical work. Centacare received its people across our Diocese received first Federal Government grant in 1991 counselling and relationship education - for marriage counselling and then for from Centacare. In addition to this, marriage education, allowing more staff hundreds of Aboriginal people have to be employed. Since then, Centacare been assisted through the Indigenoushas prepared over 3,000 couples for specific programme in Bathurst, marriage and offered relationship and Orange, Wellington, Gilgandra, and counselling to thousands across the Coonabarabran.

Diocese.

Over the years, the Advisory Board has Centacare moved to the Chancery played a key role in the governance of building on the corner of Keppel and Centacare. The organisation is indebted George streets in 1992, as the growing to the Board members who so generously organisation was running out of space. give their time and take an active role In 2002, Centacare opened the Dubbo in guiding Centacare. Past members regional office and inn 2006, the include Paul Crennan (Chair), Father Paul head office in Bathurst moved to the Devitt, Andrew Crowley, Patrick Cooper, refurbished old St. Mary’s School building Rhonda Gleeson and Hugh O’Reilly (ex officio member as Diocesan Finance on William Street.

Administrator). The current members are Paul Favero (Chair), Fathers Mark McGuigan and Joe Dooley, Linda Densmore, Anthony Tonna, Alan Paul, Kath Skinner, Mary McCarthy. Patrick Cooper re-joined the Board recently, following his appointment as DFA. Centacare’s relationship and collaboration with Catholic Education Office, from its very inception, has grown stronger, particularly over recent years. As two arms of the Diocese, both organisations work closely in the pastoral care of our school communities.

Centacare is also appreciative of the Catholic Development Fund’s generous support over the years.

We are grateful to Bishop Michael for his guidance and support and for the unshakable commitment of our Diocese to the welfare of our families and communities. Centacare also receives the support from the clergy across the Diocese, even though our presence is limited in some of the parishes.

Every year, Centacare receives about $10,000 in donations from parishioners across the Diocese, through the Centacare Sunday collection. This is confirmation of the fact that the mission of Centacare is the mission of the Church and by giving to this mission, we all become part of it. I thank everyone in the Diocese who, directly or indirectly, has been part of the Centacare mission and solicit your prayerful support.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 12

Robert George Director Centacare Sunday 15th September 2013

Centacare Sunday

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 13

Diocesan Youth My World Youth Day Experience

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am a Y2 teacher at All Hallows School Gulgong. In 2007 I had the opportunity to travel with the WYD Cross and Icon around the Wilcannia-Forbes Diocese. This was my first taste of pilgrimage and my pilgrimages in Sydney and Madrid were amazing experiences.

Nine days before I flew out with the Bathurst pilgrims, I was asked to take on a leadership position within the group. My focus shifted from being one of the group, to being responsible for the group.

We arrived in Chile exhausted, some of us travel sick, but in good spirits thanks to the crisp air and the sight of the Andes dominating the view. We headed into La Pintana to meet our Parish, Santo Tomas Apostol and celebrate Mass. The Chileans sang beautifully and finished with a demonstration of traditional dances. At the end of our first and longest day, we were welcomed with a supper. I had difficulty communicating because I only know a little Spanish, but with gestures and smiling (and the fact that the Parish Priest speaks English) we managed - if not smoothly, then good-humouredly.

Over the week we spent in Chile, Santo Tomas became our Parish.

Despite being in an area with a reputation for violence, drug abuse and crime, I felt completely safe. We were accompanied everywhere by our ‘bodyguards’ who were young people of the parish either on school holidays or who had taken time off work to be with us and show us around.

We visited the city of Santiago including the Cathedral, market and tomb of the second Chilean saint, St. Alberto Hurtado. We attended the Patron Saint of Chile, Our Lady of Mount Carmel’s feast day Mass at Temple Maipu. One day all the Australians visiting Santiago for Mission Week joined us in our Parish for Mass.

Afterwards we walked over to the parish chapel, and they fed over 500 people a sit down lunch, which I thought was amazing!

The next day it was just us, the Tasmanians and our adopted Parish. We learnt to make empanadas (they even made special gluten free ones for me), we painted a mural of St. Alberto Hurtado in their chapel and taught some of our bodyguards how to play cricket. We finished the day with a quiet reflection on our visit so far and the Tasmanians’ farewell.

On Friday morning we taught 15 children Aboriginal dot painting, how to make a dodecahedron, the song “Go Make Disciples” (in English and Spanish) and read books in English. The students knew more English than we knew Spanish and were translating the books into Spanish for us! It was a great experience for us and we think the students enjoyed the lessons, even though it was in their school holidays. They definitely enjoyed the Australian stickers!

When we began our pilgrimage we thought we were going to do Mission Work in a parish with a bad reputation. Instead we were the ones who received Mission. They demonstrated to us how to work together as a parish, how to care for and love others, how to include people in parish life and how to value every person. They taught us how dedication and planning help achieve goals, how to take ownership of and really participate in the Mass, how to be involved in Parish planning and most of all how to be a truly welcoming community. How to be Church, how to be the “Body of Christ”.

We flew over the snow-capped Andes and arrived in Rio on the following Sunday night. Monday morning we boarded the bus and headed up to see Christ Redeemer. Yes, it was packed with pilgrims, and yes, there were long waits, but the weather was clear and standing underneath Jesus with his outstretched arms really was a “wow” moment! That afternoon we travelled to the

top of Sugarloaf Mountain to see the view of the city, but at the top, all we saw was fog. However, by the time we made it down to the first level again the sun had set and we could see the lights of the city stretched out beneath us. If we hadn’t waited in the long line at the top we would have missed it.

The rest of the week in Rio was jammed full of catechesis and official events. There were huge crowds in the streets, on the trains, on the buses, to get food, to have a shower or to go to the toilet.

We explored the Cathedral while Father Reynold waited hours in line to get his priest’s pass. We called our mattresses on the floor of Aussie Central ‘home’ and knew the lights would go out at 11:30pm and back on again at 6:00am. I had to sign to say I was responsible for the group’s behaviour at Aussie Central, count out the contents of our pilgrim packs (continuously counting to 11 tried my spirits), attend early morning group leader meetings and to try and keep the group together to attend the Opening Mass and other big events.

A few highlights from Rio: - having the honour of reading a prayer of the faithful at the Australian Gathering - watching the moon rise and the next morning watching the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean on Copacabana Beach - taking a random photo above the crowd and getting the back of Pope Francis’s head - photo bombing the Salt and Light TV broadcast of the Papal Arrival (you can see the Bathurst Youth Flag behind the studio window) -catching up with Father Chris Ryan and listening to Bishop Christopher Prowse “we are the come and see people and the go and tell people” at the Aussie Gathering - sharing a lift with Cardinal Pell On our last day we had hiccups with our retreat accommodation, a blown bus tyre and wandering pilgrims. I was tired and frustrated and not ready to reflect. Then I looked up. Christ the Redeemer who had been hidden by fog for most of the week was standing there with his arms wide open. It made me think “Jesus is waiting for me, I need to allow myself to be open”. It was difficult to do this, I had prepared myself for my pilgrimage, but ended up focused on the whole group. It would take a “wow” comment from another pilgrim, listening to one of the Bishops in catechesis, talking to someone in line or finding some time to myself to remind me why I was there. To open myself up to God’s presence. In the end, our retreat accommodation was amazing and Father Reynold ran a brilliant retreat.

The theme of WYD 2013 “go and make disciples of all nations” (Mt 28:19) overwhelmed me at first. There are so many nations, so many people. Throughout the week as I listened to the different bishops and Pope Francis, it became clearer. All we really need to do is make a conscious effort to be a disciple in our own communities. To think about how we act towards others.

Do we show in our everyday life that we follow Jesus? Pope Francis summed it up nicely when he told us “to pray, go to the Sacraments and be loving to others”.

Thank you to the organising committee in La Pintana, our ‘bodyguards’, Father Chris, the Columbans, Harvest, The Australian Bishops Conference, The Catholic Education Office Bathurst, Lorna Nicholson, Bishop McKenna and the Diocese for all that was done to organise the pilgrimage and to the Bathurst Pilgrims for such a fantastic experience.

Jacinta Thatcher

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 14

Diocesan Youth World Youth Day

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 15

Diocesan Youth World Youth Day

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 16

Diocesan Youth World Youth Day

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 17

Meet your Assembly Council……

F

ollowing the Diocesan Assembly in May, Bishop McKenna established the Diocesan Assembly Council.

The Council will be a vehicle through which we look at the practicalities of implementing ideas which emerged from the Assembly process. It is hoped that another Assembly will be held in two to three years, and this will be planned from what we learnt from the first gathering.

Bishop McKenna chose the Council members carefully.

There are two from each region, with the hope that they will be a point of contact for parishes in their region. There are also leaders of major organisations in the Diocese as ex-officio members.

Rebecca Devitt Bec is currently studying Medicine at the University of Wollongong and living in Nowra during term time, working part-time as a Pharmacist. She lives in Orange during the holidays and when she finishes uni, Bec is keen to head back to the Central West to work as a doctor.

Tony Eviston (ex officio) Tony is a familiar face around the Diocese, having worked for the CDF since 1989. Tony lives in Bathurst with his wife Chris and adult sons Nicholas and Timothy. He is currently the Neither the Assembly process nor the Council is about Vice-Chancellor of the Diocese and over‘quick results’, but rather about co-responsibility. The sees the operations of the Chancery/CDF Council held its inaugural meeting via teleconference Administration Offices in Bathurst. in July and a face-to-face meeting is currently being arranged.

Robert George (ex officio) Jenny Allen (ex officio) Jenny has been a Cathedral parishioner since December 2011 and Executive Director of Schools since 2012. She is married to Geoff and they have one daughter, Aimee and a grandson, Leon.

Raised in Parramatta, Jenny has been in Catholic Education for over 30 years as a secondary teacher and principal, working for a time in each of the Sydney metropolitan Dioceses and most recently in the Wollongong Diocese.

Peta Bischof Peta is a member of St. Raphael’s Parish in Cowra. She is married with five almost grown up children, only one still living at home. She works at St. Raphael’s Central School, in the high school, teaching RE and Technological and Applied Studies.

Lucy Bryant Lucy is 22 years old and a lifetime Mudgee resident. Lucy is currently traveling in NSW, working as a Speech Pathologist.

She has been involved in Bathurst Diocese youth ministry for many years.

Robert started work with Centacare Bathurst in 2000 after moving from India. He has been Centacare’s Director since 2008. Robert lives in Bathurst with his wife Elizabeth and two sons, Reuben (16) and Jacob (10).

Geoff Mann Geoff and wife Bridget live in the small village of Wongarbon, east of Dubbo and have three adult children. He is recently retired after nearly 30 years as Community Development Officer in Employment, Education, Training and Indigenous Affairs.

Geoff is currently employed as a radio and newspaper sports journalist. In the late 70s/ early 80s, he worked on the Diocesan Youth Ministry team.

Peter Manning Peter Manning was born in Coolah and has lived there all his life, receiving all his education at Sacred Heart School, Coolah.

He is married to Judy and they have two sons and five grandchildren. After working briefly for Australia Post, he was employed by the former Coolah Shire Council in the Engineering Department for 47 years, the

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last ten years as Manager of Engineering Services. He now divides his time between running the family farm, working in the local Parish, the St. Vincent de Paul Society and other community organisations and coaching local athletes.

Marianne Matthews Marianne lives in Mudgee, moving there from Moorebank in 2010. She decided to retire to Mudgee after starting her career as an art teacher and ending it as a high school principal. Needless to say, she enjoys retirement very much and she is looking forward to the intellectual challenge of sitting on the Diocesan Assembly Council.

David Nelson David is married to Denise and they have three children: Kieran (12), Brendan (18) and Grace (16). David has worked for Bathurst Regional Council as a building surveyor for 23 years and previously lived in Boggabri NSW. David is Chair of the Diocese of Bathurst’s Liturgy Commission and he has a Masters Degree in Theology (Liturgical Studies).

Lorna Nicholson Lorna lives in Portland with her husband Tommy and they have two adult children, Nereash and Zak. Lorna is actively involved in her parish and over many years has had a strong involvement in the youth ministry of the Diocese. She is currently employed at the Chancery Office in Bathurst as Ministries Coordinator for the Diocese.

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Charlie O’Mahony Charlie is a retired English/History teacher, living with his wife Christine on their property outside Wallerawang. They have two daughters. Charlie has involved himself in the local community as President of St. Vincent’s Parish Council and as a member of the Portland, Lithgow and Wallerawang Social Justice Group. He enjoys painting and capturing the surrounding landscape.

Mark Williams Mark is 21 years old and while completing his studies at uni, works as a tour guide at the Wellington Caves. Mark has a great interest in social justice and would love to work in that field. He has a love of life and people, and looks forward to making a difference in his Diocese.

Nea Worrell Nea was born and raised in Baradine and has been married to Gordon for 43 years.

They are primary producers and have six children and 10 grandchildren. She has been an organist at St. John’s for 40 years, is involved with the rosary makers and has served on the Diocesan Liturgy Committee.

Nea is also involved in numerous other church and community groups and received the NSW Premier’s Community Service Award in 2010.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 19

8/2/2013 11:16:35 AM

CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE BATHURST

Designing a Christ-centred curriculum “The glory of God is man fully alive, and the life of man is the vision of God. If the revelation of God through creation already brings life to all living beings on the earth, how much more will the manifestation of the Father by the Word bring life to those who see God”. St. Irenaeus he introduction from the 2014 knowledgeable about issues Australian curriculum which our affecting our relationships with teachers are busily preparing for stewardship of the world and provides us with the opportunity to relationships with others? Such consider our ever-present challenge issues include themes such as earth to design and deliver a Christ-centred care, poverty and distribution of curriculum. As Catholic educators, we wealth, global warming, land rights seek to infuse a Catholic worldview and reconciliation. across all of the various subjects which Ø How does the curriculum provide students study in our schools, from diverse opportunities for students kindergarten through to Y12. to develop intellectually, spiritually, To support this work of our schools, the emotionally and physically through Catholic Education Office has prepared an evolving commitment to the a short paper entitled, Designing a teachings and mission of Jesus Christ-centred Australian Curriculum. It in promoting ‘life in abundance’ reminds us of our challenge to enable (John 10:10)? students, through their engagement Ø How does the curriculum lead designing a christ-centred with a Christ-centred curriculum, to students to take their place australian curriculum understand that they are called to be effectively in the workforce through more than creatures of their culture; for “I am the way, the truth and the life.” competencies and attitudes related John 14:6 their baptismal call is to be its creators to flexibility, resilience and positive and re-creators as well. Our students citizenship in the 21st century? are to be empowered in their great potential and prepared to be makers of also find these questions useful, as they Ø How does the curriculum provide students with foundational beliefs history towards God’s reign. Education too strive to model the education of about the dignity of people, their children on Jesus, the teacher: for social transformation is a critical celebrating differences in a dimension of curriculum in our Catholic Ø How does the curriculum provide globalised world and empower students with appropriate schools. In the absence of such an them to effectively promote the knowledge and a values-based approach, our students may simply common good and justice? understanding of the social, drift through a vacuous collection of Finally, in focusing our efforts on political and economic structures subjects without any unifying, holistic which exist in society and possible designing and delivering a Christand overarching Christian vision of life. alternatives to these structures? centred curriculum, we will be striving to A suggested resource for schools to How are students encouraged “see with the eyes of Jesus, nurture the support this aspect of their work is to develop critical thinking to Catholic life of our schools and promote Kevin Treston’s book What Matters Most evaluate these structures in light of just and right relationships with God, self, (2010). In it he poses a series of reflective others and the environment” (Diocesan the gospel? questions for teachers as they design their teaching programs. As the first Ø How does the curriculum offer Leadership Framework (2013)). opportunities to become more educators of their children, parents will Jenny Allen

T

Sacred Heart Primary School Coolah Church Street, Coolah

Kindergarten to Year 6 Ph: (02) 6377 1132 Fx: (02) 6377 1458 CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 20

CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE BATHURST

REC’s Assembly

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he Religious Education Co-ordinators of the Diocese met for professional development, to examine how religious education is being practiced in other parts of the world and in other dioceses around Australia.

Professor Richard Rymarz presented information, from international and national research, of trends and effective teaching methods in Religious Education.

Our Diocese is using and refining a new, draft curriculum ‘To Know, Worship and Love’. Based upon Sydney’s Religious Education program, our’s has been developed, expanded and enriched through input from our own teachers and RE Co-ordinators. Measured against the research, it is ‘at the top of the class’ for approach, content and methods.

A display of educational resources, which was supplied by Pauline Books and Media for participants to peruse in a hands-on way, was pored over during the session breaks.

Mary Liesch Top: Lorraine Short (Education Officer CEO), Trish Crawley (RE Co-ordinator St. Brigid’s Coonamble) and Father Paul Devitt at the REC Assembly with Robert Exner (RE Coordinator St. John’s College Dubbo) at back perusing some DVDs Middle: Lorraine Short (CEO) and Chris Eviston (RE Co-ordinator Cathedral School Bathurst) Bottom: Sue Kearns (Principal St. Joseph’s Portland) with Therese Jones (RE Coordinator St. Pius X School Dubbo) and Therese Hooper (RE Co-ordinator Assumption School Bathurst).

Holy Family Primary School Kelso

Catholic Education Quality Education www.holyfamilykelso.catholic.edu.au

(02) 6331 3279 CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 21

CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE BATHURST

School Secretaries’ Conference

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he Diocesan School Secretaries recently held another successful conference, thanks to Jo Chirgwin and her team from the CEO, this time in the central location of Bathurst. It has been 12 months since the inaugural meeting, where we finally got to meet each other - from Baradine to Eugowra to Lithgow and all towns in between.

Previously, the School Secretary was a somewhat isolated position, with support and kinship a long way away. Now, thanks to upgraded technology, compatible financial and administration programs (SAS) and a regular get-together such as the Conference, the role of the School Secretary is much more supported and productive. Secretaries are described as the backbone and the welcoming front face of the School, however being mere mortals there are times when it is comforting to have help from fellow secretaries or the CEO a phone call away - and reassurance that they are doing the best they can. a delicious meal at Rydges, Mt Panorama. It was an The Secretaries were all happy to welcome Jenny Stocks, opportunity to meet the CEO staff the Secretaries talk with who is coming on board from Payroll to help manage SAS frequently on the phone, for the first time. As the evening and issues that arise within the offices. Continual upgrading wore on, the laughter and talk became louder and funnier. of Government regulations means that Schools have to be A good release for everyone! I apologise for the lack of highly accurate in financial and physical recording and photos due to a memory card malfunction, but in our processing. Ever changing technology means Secretaries memories are many images of a happy evening with good are constantly kept on our toes and learning new skills. company and kindred spirits.

(Who says you can’t teach an ‘old’ Secretary new tricks!)

The general consensus of these Conferences is that whilst The Conference consisted of updated requirements from the Catholic Development Fund, with instruction by Tony Eviston and Sandra Robinson, followed by question time.

Human Edge (SAS) consultant Patrick Nickholds kept those present up to date with changes within the programs and implementations required within the Schools. Both lectures were informative and entertaining and many of the Secretaries enthused to start the new processes within their schools as soon as possible.

the information presented is vital to our continuing role, the best part is the networking; the companionship and swapping ideas and information to aid us in our roles. As one Secretary said to me as we were leaving to go back to the ‘real world’ after a lovely two day escape.... “I love that I learn so much from talking to each other and that we have all made so many new friends”.

Complimenting the serious business was a wonderful presentation by Sister Ann Morrison from Molong. Sister spoke about our complex and varied roles with a humorous approach and a gentle reminder of who Jesus is to us and what we are to Jesus in our role of working in, and promoting, the Catholic education system.

So, with Jesus as our friend, our saviour and our guide, and each other as friend and confidant, may we continue to fulfil our roles in the office; attending to the needs of small children, our Principals and staff, families and the wider community. Thank you again to the CEO and the organisers.

The Secretaries look forward to continued friendships and being the happy, informed, front face of each school in the Diocese.

Dinner on the Tuesday evening was very enjoyable with

Jo Chirgwin

St. Joseph’s School, Portland A School with a Tradition and a Future.

The Only Small School in the Eastern Area of the Bathurst Diocese offering unique opportunities, student centred learning and individualised programs.

All staff at St Joseph’s School are highly dedicated and experienced working together in a collaborative and safe environment focusing on the success of our students.

Ph: (02) 6355 5111 Web: www.stjosephs.nsw.edu.au Principal: Mrs Sue Kearns CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 22

CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE BATHURST

‘No gongs’ here!

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he staff and students of All Hallows in Gulgong presented the ‘Macca’s Magical Musical Tour’ this term. The captive audience made up of parents, relatives, friends, the Sisters of St. Joseph and CEO personnel, appreciated the ambience of the Gulgong Opera House - a most fitting venue for this truly theatrical treat. Our musical journey took us through such classics as The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Oliver and Grease.

Congratulations to the All Hallows staff and students for all their hard work learning songs, designing sets and props and creating costumes. Resounding applause and ‘No Gongs!’ was the response from all in attendance.

Janine Kearney

‘Quality’ Teacher-Leaders!

W

ith much current focus on quality teaching, it seemed appropriate to acknowledge two of ‘our own’ at the recent Principals’ Meeting in Dubbo.

Jessica Unsworth was the proud recipient of the Jocelyn Farr Memorial Award for Aspiring Young Teacher Leaders.

Jessica is going to use this opportunity to visit schools outside our Diocese to learn more about building professional learning communities and how to further develop this in her own school community.

Leanne Clarke was acknowledged for her commitment to quality teaching and learning as one of the first teachers in NSW to achieve Lead Teacher status. She has been recognised as a teacher who has demonstrated consistent and innovative teaching practice over time and has initiated and led activities that focus on improving educational opportunities for students inside and outside her school community. Congratulations ladies! Lucky us and lucky students in your respective school communities!

Janine Kearney

“I Just Can’t Wait To Be King!’

Matthew French (Principal St. Joseph’s Manildra), Jessica Unsworth (St. Matthew’s Mudgee), Jenny Allen (Executive Director of Schools) and Leanne Clarke (St. Mary’s Wellington)

4 Lewis St Mudgee 6372 1742 www.stmattsmudgee.nsw.edu.au CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 23

CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE BATHURST

Are you being served?

Mary (left) with Archbishop Wilson and other participants

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nformation Service, Resource Centre, Library, Resource opportunities, with fulsome support from Dr Paul Sharkey, Director Link….whatever the service is called, those who work in these of Catholic Education, South Australia. Archbishop Philip Wilson special libraries are called to serve. welcomed NCRCN members to Adelaide personally.

So Adelaide was the place to be in early July for all those interested in information, resource and reference services, whether in print or online. The Australia and New Zealand Theological Library Association [ANZTLA] held its annual conference at Immanuel College there. The National Catholic Resource Centres’ Network [NCRCN] scheduled its annual gathering immediately prior, to dovetail with ANZTLA.

I represented the Catholic Resource Centre, Bathurst at both events. The topics covered at the ANZTLA event ranged from the keynote address by Dr Ghil’ad Zuckermann to electronic books, and from researching Australian religious history to practical matters of connecting and better serving the information needs of those who use these libraries.

For those interested in a detailed view of the programme, a Susan Melhuish and her colleagues of the Catholic Resource PDF file should still be accessible at http://www.anztla.org/ and Information Service hosted the NCRCN group, providing Conference13/Conference_Program_2013.pdf a range of experiences, visits and information sharing Mary Liesch

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CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE BATHURST

A jewel in our crown!

“

Mon Foran, Robyn Harvey, Sister Margaret Flood, Tony Musgrave and Di Nugent

Generational inspiration!

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e began our new school term with a gathering of about 140 teachers for a day of Contemporary Learning. Our aesthetically pleasing venue - despite the heavy rain - was the Savannah Room at the Dubbo Zoo. As is with most of our professional learning days, the informal conversations and ‘catch-ups’ were as valuable as the ‘formal’ focus. At this particular event, the ‘sacred’ lunch break proved to be an occasion highlighting the importance of students connecting with teachers and having positive role models on their educational journeys. Robyn Harvey, Acting Assistant Principal at St. Laurence’s in Dubbo, found herself in the company of inspiring greatness - Sister Margaret Flood Principal of St. Michael’s Dunedoo (her Kinder teacher), Mon Foran - teacher extraordinaire at St. Michael’s (her Y2 teacher) and Tony Musgrave - Principal of St. Joey’s in Gilgandra (her Y5 teacher). One of our many stories that cross and connect generations! What a truly rich Catholic educational heritage we have in the Diocese of Bathurst.

Janine Kearney

We see Jesus’ leadership in his teaching ministry that consisted not of a collection of laws to be obeyed, but rather in a way of life to be imitated”. (Leonard Doohan, 2007) …and our recent Diocesan School Review at St. Columba’s in Yeoval is certainly a way of ‘school life’ to be imitated.

A warm welcome from staff and students preceded two very enjoyable and productive days. It was an opportunity for this community to showcase its commitment to the provision of quality Catholic education for their wonderful students. We were extremely impressed with the students’ enthusiasm and genuine pride in their School, the amazing facilities, the ‘spacious’ playground and the dedication of the teaching staff and their Principal Glen Brown. The St. Columba’s Kinder students - with their vast experience of Primary school education - were certainly very vocal in their support for their BIG school…led most ably by Master Simon Brown!

Janine Kearney

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St. Joseph’s School - Portland Recently, St. Joseph’s School in Portland had a ‘book of the week’ parade. The children had a great day, with lots of family and community members coming along to join in the book parade and book fair. The children also enjoyed a sausage sizzle lunch and afternoon sports activities to finish off Literacy and Numeracy Week.

Levi Irwin Kindergarten Mr McGee

Riley Gillespie Y6 Gru (from Despicable Me)

Winston Neville Y5 The Green Sheep

Savannah Green Kindergarten Tinkerbell

St. Joseph’s School - Oberon

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he St. Joseph’s Catholic School community recently celebrated Literacy and Numeracy Week. This year the theme was ‘A poem in my pocket’.

Each day all K-Y10 students were busy writing poems and placing them in their pockets, ready to read on the sound of the old bell.

Teachers took turns at sharing a poem every recess and lunch.

On the Wednesday, there was a whole school reading of the classic children’s book ‘Herman and Rosie’, a story of friendship and dreams, which was superbly led by the Principal, Mr Tony Logue.

Following on from the story, the children listened to jazz and had a free hotdog, just like Herman and Rosie did in the story.

Finally, the School undertook a ‘rubbish analysis project’ and analysed and graphed a lot of the rubbish that they had collected in their bins - an interesting project indeed!

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 26

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James Sheahan Catholic High School - Orange

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s a Catholic school, we strive to help improve the world around us by sharing not only our money, but also our humanity and compassion. The James Sheahan motto of Courage, Compassion and Hope is never more alive than when the students are actively engaging in charitable work. Throughout the year they have the compassion to see the inequalities in our world and the courage to take action to change this. They provide hope for those in need in our local community, and on a national and international level. Our random acts of kindness include the Christmas and Easter Gift Appeals. Last Christmas, Sheahan students put aside their own excitement to consider those in Orange who are less fortunate and co-ordinated the donation of gifts to local families. The response from the students and community was overwhelming and indicative of the compassionate and considerate community we are blessed to be a part of.

The commitment to social justice has again been upheld in 2013, with senior students giving their time for community service, James Sheahan SRC organising a Valentine’s Day fundraiser $2,000 going to members of the Coonabarabran Parish who disadvantaged people in Australia and in many developing were affected by bushfires and over $4,000 raised for Caritas, countries. the Catholic international aid agency, which will help so many Mark Pauschman

St. Joseph’s School - Blayney Four generations of women who attended St. Joseph’s Grandparents’ Day Celebrations great grandmother Barbara Ryan (who attended St. Joseph’s in 1934), grandmother Anne Wallace (1959), Natalie Wallace (1985) and Maddie Henry (2007)

S

t. Joseph’s held a Grandparents’ Day recently at the Blayney Community Centre. This celebration had special significance for the School community, as it coincided with the feast day of St. Joachim and St. Anne, who were the grandparents of Jesus.

All grandparents, senior citizens and their carers were invited to attend this special celebration, including residents of the Lee Hostel and Urallba nursing home. During the day, grandparents were recognised as being a valuable and vital resource in the Blayney community. They continue to provide children with stability and a sense of generational continuity. Many grandparents are also significant carers in the lives of their grandchildren and a number of them are the primary carers.

Morning tea started proceedings, as the crowd began to swell to approximately 200 people. The morning tea was a result of the

Junior Master Chef competition, organised by the Parents and Friends the day before Grandparents’ Day. Consequently the students and their families cooked all the morning tea.

The students provided the entertainment for the day. Students from Kindergarten to Y6 presented items in their stage groups, with Blayney High School students assisting the St. Joseph’s Parents and Friends with the hospitality.

A luncheon of delicious homemade soups was provided for the very appreciative crowd and Blayney hospitality students ensured all tea and coffee cups remained full.

St. Joseph’s was happy to host ‘Grandparents’ Day’ with the assistance of the wider community. It was a simple and powerful way to affirm and encourage family life and the transmission of faith through the generations.

Gerard Davies

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 28

La Salle Academy - Lithgow

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ecently, a group of 18 La Salle students and teachers with musical talents travelled to Rotorua New Zealand for a music festival.

Students from schools all over New Zealand and Australia attended. It was competitive, but our students achieved a very good result, which helped promote our home town of Lithgow.

They achieved two silver and one bronze for Bell Ringing and Guitar Playing. A great effort and one of which we, as a community, should all be proud.

Anthony Craig Yvette Cosier, Brianna De Mal, Celi Mackinnon, Danielle McNamara, Amy Thompson, Victoria Brown, Keighran Brown, Adrian Ma, Amelia Ticehurst and Kerrie Brown

H

oly Family School Principal, Kevin Arrow, recently received a prestigious National Award - an “ASG NEiTA Award for Inspirational Educators 2013”.

Nominations are put forward by members of the community in appreciation of dedicated service to student education.

The purpose of these national awards is to identify and recognise inspirational teaching and leadership throughout Australia and New Zealand and to raise community confidence in the teaching profession through the promotion of exemplary representatives.

Kevin has been teaching in the Bathurst Diocese since 1981 and has seen many changes in primary education over the years. He was unaware of the honour until Sharon Sewell and Vanessa Massman, from the School’s P & F, presented it to him at a recent School assembly. Kevin thanked the P&F who had nominated him for the Award saying, “Let us all move forward together, as we continue the collective great work at Holy Family School”.

National Honour for Principal

Vanessa, Sharon and Kevin

Kevin with Holy Family School students

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 29

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Catholic Church Insurance Limited (CCI) ABN 76 000 005 210, AFS Licence No. 235415 is the promoter of the underwriter Allianz Australia Insurance Limited (Allianz) ABN 15 000 122 850, AFS Licence No. 234708. Travel insurance is issued and managed by AGA Assistance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177, AFS Licence No. 245631 trading as Allianz Global Assistance as agent for Allianz.

We do not provide any advice on this insurance based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. # Please refer to the Financial Services Guide and relevant Product Disclosure Statement for more information available by calling 1300 655 003; or online from www.catholicinsurance.org.au. * Any online discounts offered are applied to our standard rates (excluding optional covers) and are for the first year’s premium only (unless stated otherwise). Minimum premiums may apply. Any discounts/entitlements only apply to the extent that any minimum premium is not reached. If you are eligible for more than one, we also apply each of them in a predetermined order to the premium (excluding taxes and government charges) as reduced by any prior applied discounts/entitlements. Discounts may not be applied to any flood component of the premium for home and landlord (if applicable).

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 30

21/08/2013 4:17:00 PM

St. Mary’s Primary School - Dubbo

Miss Susan Byrnes, Matilda Knaggs, Claudia Morrison and Bella Wilson preparing the Garden Club display at the Dubbo Show

RIGHT: Charlie Condon, Patrick Bonnington, Blaike Gilholme and Jake Lowick displaying the cars they donated for use in the playground

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 31

Migrant and Refugee Week 2013

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he week of 19th to 25th August 2013 was celebrated worldwide as Migrant and Refugee Week. This year’s theme was: Migrations: Pilgrimage of Faith and Hope.

Bishop Gerard Hanna, the Australian Catholic Bishops’ delegate for Migrants and Refugees, said “To reflect on migration as a pilgrimage is to come to the realisation that migrants and refugees move away from home with faith and hope, for “faith and hope are inseparable in the hearts of migrants” and refugees”. As Catholics in Australia, we are called to reflect on ways we become instruments of faith and hope for migrants and refugees.

What answer do we get when we ask ourselves…“What can I do? How am I responsible for this migrant or person seeking asylum?

The Catholic Church proclaims Gospel values which promote pastoral care. It is the duty of the Catholic community to shift the level of the discussion on migrants and refugees away from debate about perceived economic liabilities and national security to points which focus on the ethical dimension. The Church seeks to focus on the good of the person and one’s inalienable rights. The respect due to migrants and refugees carries a heavy responsibility to walk alongside migrants and refugees providing effective means of hope and faith.

confront the challenge of providing pastoral care to migrants and refugees as a concrete way to implement the relevant teaching” said Bishop Hanna.

More information is available at the Australian Catholic “In the climate of our times it is necessary to renew our familiarity Migrant and Refugee Office website - http://www.acmro. with the teaching of the Church on matters of migration, and catholic.org.au

St. John’s High School - Dubbo

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ecently, four brave Y12 Textile students displayed their Major HSC Projects in front of a crowd of enthusiastic family and friends. Each student explained the concept/ theme behind their design and the various creative techniques they incorporated.

Students had been working on their individual projects since Term Four of 2012 and it took a great deal of time, dedication, skill and stress to complete them. To their credit, all the major works looked beautiful on the night and all students should be extremely proud of their efforts.

Thanks needs to go to Mr Barnes and the Y12 Entertainment students who assisted on the night, providing the sound, lighting, seating, etc. You made the night run smoothly and certainly gave it a polished and professional finish.

I also need to thank Y12

Hospitality. The way in which they conducted themselves to assist with the catering for the night was exceptional.

Congratulations on your professionalism.

Four awards were given on the night to Lesley Downey, Monique Daymond, Annabelle McFetridge and Jacqui Waddell. The next stage is to have the projects sent

to Sydney for marking. We wish them all the best and congratulate them on a successful and entertaining evening.

Mrs Ce O’Donnell

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 32

Vocation, Vocation, Vocation “Jesus teaches us another way: Go out. Go out and share your testimony, go out and interact with your brothers, go out and share, go out and ask. Become the Word in body as well as spirit”.

Pope Francis

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ational Vocations Awareness Week (NVAW) was celebrated across Australia last month. This special week annually provides an opportunity for all Australian dioceses, parishes, schools, religious communities, youth and campus ministers, and other Catholic organisations, to focus at the same time on the ‘call to holiness’ (i.e. the Christian Vocation) that arises from our Baptism, and which is lived out in specific states of life: marriage and family, diaconate and priesthood, religious life and the committed living of single life.

In every age, God calls some men and women to specially commit their life to the service of Christ and his Church. On the last day of NVAW, we celebrated vocations to the priesthood, permanent diaconate and religious life. We continue to pray that the culture of our parish, school and family homes will encourage and support our young people in discerning the unique call God has for them.

Please also keep in your prayer the young men presently studying and discerning a vocation to the priesthood in our Diocese and those men and their families undergoing a period Through baptism, we have all being given a vocation from of discernment and learning for the permanent diaconate.

God. We are all called to holiness. The focus for the first day of NVAW was vocations to marriage, family life and committed Information on vocations is always available at the Bathurst single life. We continue to pray that our young people will be Vocations website - http://www.bathurstvocations.org.au/ or committed to working for the coming of the Kingdom and by phoning the Vocations Director, Father Patrick O’Regan we pray that spouses and parents will be confirmed in their (6331 3066) or the Assistant Vocations Director, Father Greg Bellamy (6882 4233). vocation.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 33

The Benedictine Sisters There is one thing I ask of the Lord for this I long, to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to savour the sweetness of the Lord, to behold His temple. Psalm 26

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hese few verses from the psalms capture and express so beautifully the spirit of our life as an enclosed community of Benedictine nuns. Many say when they hear about our community, they experience a sense a mystery which leads them to wonder - who are these people and what do they do all day?

Our vocation is a call to a life of prayer at the heart of the Church….at the heart of the whole world. Naturally, prayer is an integral part of every vocation but for us, prayer is the whole meaning of our lives. We are called to live prayer.

We become Benedictine nuns in order to give our lives to seeking God, “that in all things God may be glorified” (Rule of St Benedict).

and petition - then you will understand why we live the way we do. You will understand why there is much silence in our abbey - because it helps prayer; why we rise very early in the morning at 4.00am - because we are called to praise and prayer and this is an excellent time for it; why we live a life of gentle enclosure - because it enables us to be totally present to prayer throughout every day.

Our whole life is centered on prayer. By prayer, we do not mean just praying prayers but rather endeavouring to live every moment totally attentive to God. Our prayer is for and on behalf of the whole people of God - all of you who are reading this article, all people throughout the whole world.

As you are reading these few words, somewhere here in To understand or believe in our life requires a profound Australia or in the world, a young person is sitting in a gutter belief in God and prayer. Once you understand that our feeling utterly alone and afraid, another has just discovered call is to prayer - prayer of faith, praise, love, repentance something wonderful that will change lives forever, others are caught in the midst of a raging war, a couple has just declared their love for another, a frightened soul is lying awake in the dark, a refugee is caught in despair, a new baby has just entered the world. All of these and more flesh and blood people - have one thing in common… unseen, a Benedictine nun walks with them and prays for them.

Within this whole life of prayer, of course, there are practical issues so we earn our own living very simply by craft work: making and decorating candles and designing cards. We also sell a large variety of books and religious goods. We do all our work quietly so that we create an atmosphere of prayer and peace throughout the Abbey.

In short, we are very ordinary, normal women and we often fail in our ideals but we keep trying and we rely on God’s goodness and forgiveness. As well as prayer and work, we also have times each day when we gather as a community to enjoy one another’s company or simply sit over a cuppa with a friend. There is also space for rest, times to enjoy our magnificent surroundings and to walk in the rainforest.

We thank God for leading us to this deeply beautiful property on Jamberoo Mountain, which speaks constantly of the wonder and glory of God. We are eager to share this beautiful gift with all who come here truly seeking God. We have built retreat cottages on the property, open to all who would like to spend a few days in quiet and prayer.

We offer a place to pray and rest with God. Some of our sisters are qualified to give spiritual guidance to anyone who may desire this, or we are just simply here to listen, support, guide or serve in any way we can. You are always most welcome to come to our cottages to share the peace of our life of prayer or even to pop in to join us in prayer.

If you are seeking to do something “wild and precious” with your life and have a good measure of “courage to walk in the presence of the Lord” through a life of continuous prayer, please do not hesitate to contact us: Benedictine Abbey, 695 Mountain Road, Jamberoo, NSW. 2533; Phone: (02) 4236 0628; email: vocations@bigpond.com; website: www.jamberooabbey.org.au.

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 34

Confraternity of Christ the Priest In the footsteps of Christ the Priest

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very religious congregation and society takes on its own particular way of walking in the footsteps of Jesus. The Church then gets to see many of Jesus’ amazing attributes; by looking at each of these groups, and those whom Jesus calls to live in them, people can see which attribute ‘rings a bell’ in their own heart.

The Confraternity of Christ the Priest walks in the footsteps of our compassionate high priest, Jesus, who offered his life, all of it, for the glory of God and the salvation of the human race.

The Feast of Christ the Priest 25 years in Australia

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hat year was the first official Feast of Christ the Priest celebrated in an English speaking country? 1988, in Australia, after the Confraternity of Christ the Priest was given permission by the Sacred Congregation for the Sacraments and Divine Worship.

As far as we know, in no other English speaking country has the Feast of Christ the Priest been celebrated officially.

But it has in Australia for 25 years, and there is reason to believe that this Feast of Jesus, celebrated on the Thursday after Pentecost, may spread beyond Australia and numerous Spanish speaking countries, even to become a world-wide feast.

Pope Pius XI wrote a Votive Mass in honour of Christ the Priest, which is included in parish missals, Venerable Pius XII wrote about Christ the Priest in one of his encyclicals, the Second Vatican Council explained in Lumen Gentium that we all share in the Priesthood of Christ by baptism and ordination, Blessed John Paul II frequently prayed the Litany of Jesus the Eternal High Priest. Now the head of the Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship is from Spain and a keen promoter of this feast.

Along with its distinctive missionary work in Australia, the Confraternity of Christ the Priest is working to promote the devotion and Feast of Christ the Priest around the world.

Father Casanova CCS sharing the devotion to Christ the Priest with Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Mumbai

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CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 35

Bathurst’s Good Shepherd Vocations Group ‘Praying for good vocations’

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he Bathurst Diocese has a number of men studying at the Good Shepherd Seminary. Our young people are enthusiastic about the future of the Church and Australia is experiencing an increase in vocations. Pilgrims at World Youth Day held in Sydney responded to the theme: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses” and pilgrims recently returned from Brazil were invited to: “Go and make disciples of all peoples”.

Bishop McKenna sought to form a group to support vocations in the Diocese and the Good Shepherd Vocations network commenced as a result of that invitation. We are very enthusiastic about praying for good vocations and model our group on this foundation. We assist seminarians in practical ways as well as hosting social outings. These events have been very enjoyable and allow our members to get to know the students more personally. Members of the Young Adults group have joined us for social events with the seminarians.

Our membership is diverse and includes parents with young children, grandparents, singles and Religious. Our chaplain, Monsignor John Frawley, continues to support us in his retirement. We have the opportunity to help others, while growing in faith and commitment to living our personal vocations.

Prayer for vocations is the focus of our group. Each Friday, we gather at 5.30pm in the Cathedral to pray Evening Prayer (Vespers). Parishioners are encouraged to join us for this beautiful prayer before Mass. Booklets are provided.

Good Shepherd Vocations Network is an opportunity to make

a difference to your own lives, your families and to support vocations. Membership is commitment to daily prayer. There is only as much involvement as you are comfortable with and the rewards can be more than you expect.

The Bathurst group meets on the first Monday of the month after Mass in the Cathedral.

GSVG - Bathurst

Encountering Christ. 18-20 October, 2013 at The Hermitage, Mittagong. A retreat for single, Catholic women 18-35.

For more information: sydney@op-tn.org • www.nashvilledominican.org

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 36

Sisters of St Joseph Are you seeking to nurture your passion for God and God’s world?

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he Sisters of St Joseph, founded in Australia in 1866 by Mary MacKillop and Fr Julian Tenison Woods seek to “Do all the good you can, and never see a need or injustice (evil) without trying to remedy it” (Fr Julian Woods Book of Instructions 1870). Today Josephite Sisters and companions in ministry are inspired

by Mary MacKillop’s wisdom of “wherever you are, there you will find God” (1871). They live in the local community advocating for those who are struggling – rural communities, immigrants, indigenous people and those physically and mentally challenged. They support the education and spirituality of the young, and accompany leaders, carers and parents through providing spiritual nurture,

Believe the whisperings of God to your heart.

Mary MacKillop 1868

faith education, discernment, meditation, counselling and Retreats.

The Sisters of St Joseph profess public vows and religious life according to the Constitutions of the Congregation. With the support of the Josephite community, they express their vows in a life of loving consecration to God encountered in prayer, in community, in mission and in the whole of creation.

The Perthville Josephites are pleased with their decision to move to fusion/merger with the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart (Brown Josephites).

Four Federation Josephite Congregations (Black Josephites) are participating in this movement of unity among Josephites founded

by Mary MacKillop and Julian Woods. The Perthville sisters will continue to maintain their ministry among, and their loyalty and allegiance to, the people of the Bathurst Diocese whose friendship and relationships are so important to them.

Within the wider Josephite network, there are available to women and men who are not vowed religious, other pathways to living the Josephite Charism and Mission.

Come discover the many ways to walk in the spirit of Mary MacKillop and Julian Tenison-Woods For more information: Sisters of St Joseph www.perthvillesisters.catholic.org.au www.sosj.org.au

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 37

MSC Mission Office PO Box 177, NSW 1465 Ph: 02 9697 0983 / 9662 7188 Email: mscmisio@acon.com.au www.australia.mscmission.org

A work from the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart for helping families, young people, schools and religious formation.

MSC development projects seek to improve the conditions of communities in a sustainable way. It is based on working with communities, rather than for or on behalf of communities. The MSC Mission Office relies on benefactors to support the Outreach activities for Water projects, Disadvantaged Youth, HIV/AIds, Relief & Formation.



2011 - TOTAL FINANCIAL AID FUNDING:  COUNTRIES (Aust $)  

AUSTRALIA $  49,600 BURKINA FASO $ 8,650  CAMEROON $ 62,500 D.R.CONGO $ 81,500  EL SALVADOR $ 7,500  FIJI $ 120,850  HAITI $ 10,000  INDIA $ 110,375 INDONESIA $ 56,550 KIRIBATI $ 18,500 MARSHALL ISLANDS $ 7,000 NAMIBIA $ 14,000 NEW ZEALAND $ 2,000 PHILIPPINES $ 61,000 PNG $ 200,290 SENEGAL $ 15,300 SOUTH AFRICA $ 42,000 SOUTH SUDAN $ 42,000 TIMOR LESTE $ 2,000 VANUATU $ 14,600 VIETNAM $ 96,400 TOTAL FUNDING ALL PROJECT CATEGORIES 2011 $ 1,022,615

The MSC Mission Office is a work of the Australian Province of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart and while we try to love the world, the work of the MSC Mission Office has concentrated its energies. We have restricted ourselves to three main areas for financial assistance.

1) CLEAN WATER PROJECTS

2) DISADVANTAGED YOUTH

3) HIV/AIDS LEPROSY

 Your small donation can make a big difference!

I wish to support:

Clean Water Projects

HIV/Aids Programs

Children's Programs

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Most Urgent (Domestic / Overseas) Enclosed is my gift

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Please debit my credit card: Visa / Master / Amex

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Exp Signature:

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

 



CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 38

CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 39

Australian Catholic Bishops Conference Social Justice Sunday 29th September 2013 Lazarus at Our Gate: A critical moment in the fight against world poverty The Australian Catholic Bishops’ Social Justice Statement for 2013-2014 calls on the Christian community and all Australians to stand in solidarity with our neighbours around the world who are living in conditions of extreme poverty.

The title of the Statement comes from the Gospel reading for Social Justice Sunday this year - Jesus’ parable about the poor man, Lazarus, who lies unnoticed at the gate of the rich man (Luke 16:19–31).

In 2000, the world leaders of 189 nations, including Australia, gathered together and committed themselves to tackling global poverty. Their Declaration gave rise to eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to be achieved by 2015. While great progress has been made over the past decade, many of these goals will not be fulfilled: Around the world, a quarter of a million women still die in childbirth each year and eight million children die annually from malnutrition and preventable diseases. One billion people remain in extreme poverty and 20% of the poorest in the world live in countries near Australia.

Lazarus at Our Gate A Critical Moment in the Fight Against World Poverty

‘In our region, Australia is the rich man and Lazarus is at our gate’ Five groups in particular need our support. They are: people who face severe hunger; people who are victims of disaster; Indigenous peoples; people with disability; and refugees and displaced people. The circumstances they face remind us of our obligation to help the world’s poorest and to work to combat poverty wherever it is found.

It is time to renew our commitment to address world poverty - a commitment inspired by the mission of Jesus in his Incarnation and in his gift of the Eucharist. Pope Francis has reminded us of our vocation: ‘Fighting poverty, both material and spiritual, building peace and constructing bridges’.

What will we do, as individuals and as a nation, to help the most needy who sit at our gate?

The complete Social Justice Statement is available at the Australian Cahtolic Social Justice Council website - http:// www.socialjustice.catholic.org.au

Social Justice Statement 2013–14

Australian Catholic Bishops Conference

Servicing the people of Orange and District Community

“Offering helpful advice and care” Proudly and Locally owned by John and Cath Murphy 1 Cameron Place, Orange NSW 2800 Phone: 02 6360 1199 Fax: 02 6360 2999 www.orangefuneral.com.au CATHOLIC OBSERVER, DIOCESE OF BATHURST • SEPTEMBER 2013 - PAGE 40