26038_Aurora_2019_April_ISSUU

Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle April 2019 | No.189

My journey to baptism Becoming a Catholic at Easter 5

Why is interfaith dialogue important?

What are we doing at the local level to support it? 7

The role of robotics and coding in education STEM learning programs in Catholic schools 17

FEATURE

What Easter means to m e

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First Word

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On the cover Isabella FraserMesic, Eden Nysten, Oliver Connor and Brooke Burdon at St Peter’s Stockton.

Photo courtesy of Lizzie Snedden.

We all need hope As we head rapidly towards Easter – and the end of the first quarter of the year as I write this – one can draw a lot of inspiration from the messages of hope in two articles this month.

Featured f f My journey to baptism

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f f Easter: the metamorphosis of life

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f f Our journey into Easter

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f f What Easter means to me

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f f Why is interfaith dialogue important?

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f f The Cross: A resilient image

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f f Finding harmony in what unites us

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f f DARA’s Van partners with the Salvos

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f f God’s light shines bright in Magdelene Award

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f f Stirring the waters

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f f Call for patience in the wake of the Vatican abuse summit

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f f Fr Frank Brennan debunks myths

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f f Who is Australian Catholic Superannuation?

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f f The role of robotics and coding in education

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f f A new era of outdoor learning

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f f Celebrating 100 years of Catholic education in Gloucester

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f f Former classmates a great network

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f f Kids wonderland at Lochinvar wins award 18 f f Autism needs greater awareness

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f f Faces and places in our Diocese

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The first of these, written by Bishop Bill, is entitled Hope and joy raises us up.

In it he writes: It is surely no bad thing for a country to have a lot of people who believe that God loves us all, that Christ gave his life for us all and, by his rising, opened up a great hope for us all. Belief in Jesus’ resurrection is the foundation for a lot of people’s lives of joy, of hope, of confidence in the future, of aspiration to live lives worthy of what has been done for us.

The second article, penned by Fr Doohan, has the headline: Finding harmony in what unites us Fr Andrew tells of how community leaders from all walks of life gathered at the Mayfield Mosque to stand in solidarity with members of the Islamic community in their grief and shock of what

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f f My Word

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f f CareTalk

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f f Community Noticeboard

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f f Last Word

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I have often heard the expression: It takes a village to raise a child.

I suspect this means that every person in the village community has a role to play in such a child’s life.

In the same vein, it takes each and every one of us to make a difference to the world in which we live – and that is why the story about Lidy Waanders, the winner of this year’s Magdalene Award, is worth a read. Her tireless dedication to her parish was a major factor in Lidy winning this award.

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The story Stirring the waters written by Margo Nancarrow talks about a call from the keynote speaker at the Colloquium held in Adelaide. Debra Zanelli highlighted the challenges faced by vulnerable people in our society – in particular women – and the responsibility all people of faith have in helping the vulnerable to respond to the challenge.

Last but no least there has been a lot happening on the education front ranging from Catholic Schools Week, St Nicks Lochinvar winning an award, the official opening of a new outdoor area at St James Primary School in Kotara and St Joseph’s Primary School celebrating a centenary of Catholic education in Gloucester.

On that note, a Happy Easter to all.

John Kingsley-Jones is the Head of Diocesan Communications for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

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f f First Word

He writes: People from a wide range of cultural and religious backgrounds, people of all shapes and sizes, stood together in the face of violence and tragedy because they all shared something much more profound than whatever might mark them as different.

Contact Aurora John Kingsley-Jones P 4979 1192 E john.kingsley-jones@mn.catholic.org.au

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had happened in Christchurch at the start of Harmony Week.

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My Word

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A U R O R A C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F M A I T L A N D - N E W C A S T L E

Hope and joy raise us up We Australians are a sceptical lot. And for the most part I would say ‘Thank heavens for that’. We take the promises of politicians with very large doses of salt, distrust corporate leaders and have a keen ear for anything that sounds too good to be true. How, then, am I to speak about the most extraordinary ‘too good to be true’ story of all time?

First, let’s be clear about the Easter story.

It says that, in first century Palestine, a man called Jesus attracted a large following among the common people by preaching the love of God for everyone and by working miracles of healing. He didn’t trust much in sheer popularity with crowds, however, and more and more focussed on getting his inner circle of disciples to really understand what he was saying and doing, as he led them on a quixotic walk to Jerusalem where, he said, his mission from God would culminate in his death. Accordingly, in Jerusalem, having caused a disturbance in the Temple itself by asserting his authority as God’s agent over against the priests and scribes, he was arrested, tried and executed by crucifixion. His crime was blasphemy for the Jewish leaders, sedition for the Roman governor.

His story, of course, would have disappeared into the mists of time soon afterwards, like that of thousands of other disruptive colonials, if not for

what happened next. Two days after his death, by our way of counting, his tomb was found empty. At first that caused distress and confusion, but then various individuals began reporting that they had met him alive again. Then the whole group of his inner circle found him gathered with them a couple of times.

Then he left them but, in another group experience one morning, they felt a power come over them which took away their fears and empowered them to go out into a hostile world. They said that the Son of God had lived and died and risen among them and that those who repented their sins and believed in him would similarly be able to live with a new freedom in this life and ultimately rise from the dead. That was the Good News of Easter. Most people didn’t believe it, but those who did were soon having their own experiences of ‘meeting’ Jesus, of feeling the power of the Spirit in their lives and of seeing others transformed as they came to believe. And people continue to this day to have those experiences of Jesus’ presence, his Spirit, his transforming power. Easter is about Jesus being alive now.

So, Easter in Australia. It’s a long weekend, and if that allows family time and a bit of a break from stress, that is no bad thing. But I’d like us all to understand that for Christians it is so much more. I’m used to Australians

being sceptical, whether they’re nonbelievers or just jaded Christians. But I’d still like the whole community to draw some joy and hope from our Easter celebrations. It is surely no bad thing for a country to have a lot of people who believe that God loves us all, that Christ gave his life for us all and, by his rising, opened up a great hope for us all. Belief in Jesus’ resurrection is the foundation for a lot of people’s lives of joy, of hope, of confidence in the future, of aspiration to live lives worthy of what has been

done for us. A belief that brings so much good to the lives of so many deserves to be honoured even by those who do not share it. We can all at least be glad that there is an Easter. Happy Easter! And to fellow believers, Alleluia!

Bishop Bill Wright Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle

Frankly Spoken In these days, in addition to the pain of wars and conflicts that do not cease to afflict humanity, there have been the victims of the horrible attack against two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. I pray for the dead and injured and their families. I am close to our Muslim brothers and all that community. I renew my invitation for prayer and gestures of peace to combat hatred and violence.

Angelus- Vatican City- 17 March

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My journey to baptism

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BY AIMEE SHEPHERD

My RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) journey began last year when I made the decision to become baptised in the Catholic Church. I wasn’t raised in a religious household but I had always been searching for a deeper connection to God. I finally felt that I was ready to take this journey when I married my husband who was baptised in the Catholic Church as a baby.

In September last year, I began weekly sessions with the RCIA team who would encourage, support and teach me throughout my journey. These weekly meetings and my worshipping at Mass each Sunday have led me to where I am now - preparing for my Easter baptism and standing in front of Bishop Bill.

When I was told that I would be meeting the Bishop, I was both nervous and excited. I felt nervous because I wasn’t sure how I should address him or act around him; and excited because it meant that I was on the final step of my journey before my baptism.

On Sunday, 10 March I, along with all the other catechumens and candidates, attended the Rite of Election at Sacred Heart Cathedral where we were to be presented to Bishop Bill. When my name was called my previous nerves completely left me. Instead I felt joyous, enlightened and proud.

Walking past the Bishop as he smiled and greeted me was a feeling like no other. It’s hard to describe exactly how I was feeling, other than to say that I truly

Aimee signs her name in the Book of the Elect at Sacred Heart Cathedral

felt that the Holy Spirit was speaking to me and accepting me into His kingdom.

He was in my heart and soul.

After we were all presented, we signed our name on a roll which would then be endorsed by the Bishop. As we did so, the congregation sang the hymn Sign Me Up. Hearing this as I signed the roll made me feel uplifted and encouraged.

After I signed my name I joined in with the singing as the other people signed

theirs. I’ve learned that it’s important to always encourage others, so having the opportunity to do so on an occasion like this was really special.

At the end of the liturgy, catechumens and candidates gathered on the steps of the cathedral for a photo. Bishop Bill joked that unlike many things in the Catholic Church this wasn’t an ancient tradition. Of course we all laughed as the camera clicked.

Easter: The metamorphosis of life When working in a community, you witness the Paschal Mystery on a daily basis in many shapes and forms.

Carrying the cross can be to experience hurt, pain and disappointment.

Many people can move forward to resurrection after their fall and find deep meaning and understanding from the situation. Some people fall and carry the scars in their hearts and minds for a short time. For others, the scars do not fade and the wounds are passed from one generation to the next and resurrection is difficult, if not impossible.

I am not surprised that some people are unable to move past hurt, especially when popular media glorifies animosity and encourages conflict and the breakdown of relationships.

It’s not every day that one gets to meet the Bishop and have him approve of your baptism, so I truly felt honoured. My heart is filled with joy, love and the Holy Spirit.

I will remember this special day for years to come and am excited for what the next chapter of my life with God will bring after my baptism.

BY ROSE MCALLISTER

Carrying this weight is harmful to our soul and our mental health. Thomas Merton considers a life unable to recover from pain or unable to exist inside God’s love as the False Self. The False Self controls, so we are unable to feel the precious joy of life.

It is only when we come to recognise that life is a state of metamorphosis - a journey where we can learn from hurt, pain and disappointment - that we come to an understanding of life’s transformative nature.

Mary felt her son’s pain. She stayed at the cross with her child; she experienced the precious joy of life stripped from her as she witnessed His death on the cross.

There is a mystical union between a mother and child; Richard Rohr explains this as the Paradox of Mutual Indwelling. Life dwells inside the mother as the child

grows and then, as the child’s life dwells outside, the Mother’s life dwells inside of the child. Mary’s life dwelled in her son, Jesus.

Juliana of Norwich describes Jesus as our true mother, in whom we are endlessly carried, and out of whom we will never come. In Mary’s body divinity became humanity.

It is in our humanity that we experience pain and experience joy. As we journey through life, we come to understand that the Paschal Mystery is a vital component for transformation. Metamorphosis is necessary.

At Easter let us be the ones to nurture, so that we can help those who are in pain break through their cocoons and live their precious lives to the full.

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A U R O R A C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F M A I T L A N D - N E W C A S T L E

Our journey into Easter When asked to prepare a reflection for preparation for Easter the only phrase that kept coming into my mind was the question about the true value of our life.

There is a story of a man who one day went and asked God, “What is the value of our life?”

God gave him one stone and said, “Find out the value of this stone, but don’t sell it.”

The man took the stone to an orange seller and asked him what the value of this stone was?

The orange seller saw the shiny stone and said, “You can take 12 oranges and give me the stone.”

The man apologised and said that God had asked him not to sell it.

He went ahead and found a vegetable seller and asked, “What could be the value of this stone?”. The seller saw the shiny stone and said, “Take one sack of potatoes and give me the stone.”

The man again apologised and said he couldn’t sell it.

Further ahead he went into a jewellery shop and asked the value of the stone.

What Easter means to me Year Six students from St Peter’s Primary School in Stockton, along with their teacher Gemma Spradbrow, created the beautiful Easter themed display featured on our cover this month.

While at the school, we took the opportunity to ask students ‘What does Easter meant to you?’ All the responses were great and we’ve shared four of them below.

“During Lent we fast, not just from food but from negativity and sadness. At Easter Jesus is resurrected.

We celebrate Jesus and our new life!” Eden Nysten “Easter to me is a time to be thankful for my family and all they do for me. It is a time for acts of kindness and service, just as Jesus did for us. Easter is when Jesus was resurrected and we celebrate his return to us.”

Isabella Fraser-Mesic “Easter means to me, being thankful. It is not about what we have but what we need in life. Like Jesus in the desert, we have fasted for 40 days. We need to remember what we learned.” Brooke Burdon “Easter for me is about loving Jesus. He went into the desert for 40 days and nights and went through all the events of Holy Week. But Jesus came back to us on Easter Sunday, because he loves us.” Oliver Connor Head to mnnews.today/aurora to see more!

BY DEACON VIANE PEREZ

The jeweller saw the stone under a lens and said, “I will give you $5,000,000 for the stone.” When the man shook his head, the jeweller said, “Alright, alright, take $100 million, but give me the stone.”

The man explained he couldn’t sell the stone. Further ahead the man saw a precious stones shop and asked the seller the value of this stone.

When the precious stone seller saw the stone - a big ruby - he laid down a red cloth and put the ruby on it. Then he walked in circles around the ruby and bent down and touched his head in front of the ruby.

“From where did you bring this priceless ruby from?” he asked. “Even if I sell the whole world, and my life, I still won’t be able to purchase this priceless stone.”

Stunned and confused, the man returned to God and told him what had happened. “Now tell me what is the true value of life, God?” he said.

God said, “The answers you got from the orange seller, the vegetable seller, the jeweller and the precious stone seller explains the value of our life. You may be a precious stone, even priceless, but people may value you based on their level of information, their belief in you, their motive behind entertaining you, their ambition, and their risk taking ability. But don’t fear,

In the eyes of God, you are very, very precious.

Respect yourself. You are unique. No one can ever replace you. you will surely find someone who will discern your true value.”

In the eyes of God, you are very, very precious.

Respect yourself. You are unique. No one can ever replace you.

So as we journey into Easter, always remember how precious we ALL are, in the eyes of God. I remember Pope Francis last year in his third apostolic exaltation said, “We do not have a mission we are a mission.”

So don’t be afraid to speak out boldly to all people whether they are Christians or not - that Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, died and rose from the dead for our Salvation because God alone knows the true value of our LIVES!

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Feature

Why is interfaith dialogue important?

What are we doing at a local level to support it?

BY TERESA BRIERLEY

The Second Vatican Council (1962 – 65), with its Constitutions, Decrees and Declarations, lifted this veil and brought about an invitation for Catholics, other Christians and people of other faiths or no faith to reimagine what God was asking of them as humans, created in God’s likeness and image.

The Decree on Ecumenism (Unitatis Redintegratio) and the Declaration on the Relationship of the Church to Non-Christian Religions (Nostra Aetate) form the basis for the mandate of the Diocese of Maitland Newcastle’s Ecumenical and Interfaith Council. This Council meets monthly to explore opportunities for ecumenical and interfaith dialogue.

Christian ecumenism is the movement of Christian churches like the Anglicans, Catholics, Uniting Church, Lutherans, Baptists and others towards unity.

Interfaith Dialogue is the movement towards better

understanding between faiths, like Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism and so on.

There are deep questions which stir within each person. Meeting and sharing with people from Christian and other faith traditions can begin to satisfy our longing as humans for story, connection and meaningmaking.

The members of The Hunter Interfaith Network (THIN) – Muslims, Jews, Anglicans, Catholics, Uniting Church and Ba’hai - meet regularly because of our common belief that faith matters. We long to bring about understanding, unity, peace, harmony and justice to the landscape we call home, the regions of Newcastle, Hunter, Upper Hunter, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and the Manning.

Rev Rod Pattenden, a minister at the Adamstown Uniting Church, believes interacting with Christians of other faiths enables us to see God anew and to value other traditions as they seek to love God and to love their neighbour. “Our sense of God is sometimes too small, and stepping outside our usual habits and comforts is one way to enlarge that vision,” Rev Pattenden said.

The Cross: A Resilient Image I recently had the challenging opportunity at the Ecumenical Conversation: Why the Cross? to talk about how Australian artists have responded to the image of the cross. It’s such a central image in our western world which expresses what we understand about God and also what it means to be human - in showing love, hope, and trust.

This leads me then to Andrew Finnie’s image of the cross which it seems has become entwined in the roots of the tree of life which is on exhibition in the Adamstown Uniting Church. Andrew Finnie is a Newcastle artist well known for his paintings of rich colour that express the sensual delight of the local Newcastle landscape. Finnie is also a skilled digital artist, able to transform images into new forms with unexpected relationships.

Here in this large-scale, digital image we have a multitude of visual fragments that work to express the complex significance of the cross for this time in history. Finnie has placed the cross, not in the position favoured in the Renaissance which is high in the sky in glory but instead deep into the shadows and roots of a large green tree.

 Life – sharing the events of our daily lives at home, work and play with our neighbours of different faiths  Action – based on shared religious and moral values, working together on matters of common social concern for the betterment of society  Theological exchange – sharing and discussing our religious beliefs to better understand one another and identify more precisely what we hold in common and where our differences lie; and  Religious experience – sharing about the spiritual practices and fruits of prayer and worship in our respective traditions The many regular events that are held in the Ecumenical and Interfaith space are open to everyone. You can find these events on the Diocese’s website.

Please consider coming along and entering into the conversation which aims to build a more peaceful and just society.

Teresa Brierley is Vice Chancellor of Pastoral Ministries for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

BY ROD PATTENDEN

He explains, “This is the Tree of Life – this apparently jumbled mass of branches we see behind Christ.

Inscribed in the bark of the tree are prayers and biblical texts. These prayers gather at the trunk of the tree, make their way through the branches and transpire through the leaves, heading off towards Heaven. So the Tree of Life’s story in this image is that it is a channel for our prayers.”

Andrew Finnie offers us a refreshingly hopeful opportunity to think about Christ and about God’s purpose for our lives in this moment. The Cross is a symbol and is still resilient. It provides us with an opportunity for insight and action on behalf of a world dearly loved by God. We are thankful, then, for new insights and the role artists might play in helping us develop eyes to see, and in this case, with our feet firmly planted in God’s greening power.

Rev Dr Rod Pattenden is Minister of the Adamstown Uniting Church. He is an art historian and theologian interested in the power of images and has written and lectured widely on spirituality and contemporary art in Australia.

Image Credit - Andrew Finnie, The Body of Christ, The Tree of Life, 2014, 182cm x 78cm, Pigment print on Hahnemuhle Paper

For some of our readers there will be a strong recollection of Catholics being forbidden to enter into any other Christian Church, to marry outside the Church and to not have anything to do with people of other faith traditions. It was deemed a sin to associate with the ‘pagans’.

Our Ecumenical and Interfaith gatherings are dialogical.

We dialogue about:

Community

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A U R O R A C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F M A I T L A N D - N E W C A S T L E

Finding harmony in what unites us On the evening of Saturday 16 March, together with hundreds of people from across Newcastle, I gathered at the Newcastle Islamic Centre in Mayfield. I gathered there to stand in prayerful solidarity with the Islamic community in their grief and shock of what had happened the day before in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was not the way I had envisioned marking the beginning of Harmony Week,

BY FR ANDREW DOOHAN

yet it was the perfect example of why Harmony Week is something to be acknowledged in the civic life of Australia.

all shared something much more profound than whatever might mark them out as different.

Gathered in the Islamic Centre and Mosque that rainy Saturday night was a perfect cross-section of Australian society. People from a wide range of cultural and religious backgrounds, people of all shapes and sizes, stood together in the face of violence and tragedy because they

From a Catholic perspective, we recognise that all human beings are created in the image and likeness of God, and that is something that is deserving of profound respect. We cannot truly be catholic unless we respect and embrace the very differences that create the rich tapestry that is Australian society.

Looking around the congregations in our churches on Sundays should reveal the truth of what we celebrate during Harmony Week. The cultural background of those who gather week by week is diverse, coming from countries such the Philippines, Italy, Chile, China, South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, India, Sri Lanka, Korea, Egypt and Mauritius to name but a few. And while our origins might be rich and diverse, what we have in common is much more significant.

Together we share a faith in God that unites us beyond anything that divides us, a common faith and belief that transcends whatever differences human beings might notice. As Christians, we see beyond the superficial to the deeper reality of what unites us.

Community leaders gather at Mayfield Mosque

And that was why I stood in the Mayfield Mosque on a rainy Saturday night. I may not share the religious belief of those with whom I gathered, but I shared something more profound with everyone who was in the building that night.

There, together with other Novocastrians, I acknowledged our shared humanity, and our shared pain and grief, that overcomes any differences that others might wish to highlight.

DARA’s Van partners with the Salvos

BY ALEXANDER FOSTER When DARA’s Van was approached 12 months ago to assist a kitchen breakfast service in Woodberry, it was forced to decline having just committed to three new service locations at Nelson Bay, Raymond Terrace and Maitland.

Van co-ordinator, Baden Ellis, said the Woodberry kitchen had to close for a few months to be refurbished.

However, once refurbished, the Woodberry kitchen didn’t resume with serving breakfasts.

“This left the community devastated and left Woodberry at the top of DARA’s list for future services,” Mr Ellis said.

“Late last year, when Tracy Iles [Auxiliary Lieutenant] from The Salvation Army Centre at Raymond Terrace, approached me about partnering with DARA to start a

breakfast in Woodberry, we jumped at the opportunity,” Baden said.

Tracy said the partnership between DARA and The Salvation Army made both organisations stronger.

“For us, coming together with you guys (DARA), there was no question about whether or not we wanted to do that,” she said. “It’s really good that the community sees services working together and all for one purpose.”

The combined service started operating in late January.

But the hard work never ends for DARA. “As our food programs expand, we need volunteer team leaders to assist with our established services so we can focus on the growth of our new sites,” he said.

“It also means we need volunteers who are willing to work behind the scenes to pack and collect food and donations. As

DARA is a community-funded service, volunteers are our most valuable asset.”

DARA plans to continue expanding its food program over the coming months into various locations across Lake Macquarie and the Manning. However, such expansion this will depend on funding and community support.

The purpose of DARA’s food program is to provide a hot, nutritious meal and muchneeded conversation to the marginalised in our community. It also functions as a

key outreach service that engages directly with people who require support and information.

DARA’s Van needs ongoing assistance from the community in the form of food, monetary donations and volunteers. If you can provide either, please visit the website dara.org.au, call (02) 4979 1142 or email admin@dara.org.au Alexander Foster is a Digital Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

W W W. M N N E W S . T O D AY / A U R O R A - M A G A Z I N E

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God’s light shines bright in Magdalene Award

BY TODD DAGWELL

Lidy Waanders used to prefer keeping her good deeds quiet until she recalled the message of one of her favourite scripture passages – “don’t hide your light under a bushel when you are shining Christ’s light for others to see”.

Lidy’s tireless dedication in support of her parish, St Brigid’s Raymond Terrace, and the Diocese as a whole, saw her declared the winner of the third annual Magdalene Award by Bishop Bill at Cathedral House in March.

“There are so many wonderful women in this Diocese so I was very surprised to win,” she said.

“I usually prefer to be more in the background but then I recalled a favourite scripture passage about letting God’s light shine bright. Importantly this award is about trying to make the light of women shine in the church and elevate their position.”

Judy Crittenden, Sue Campbell and Petrina Massey also received citations at the award ceremony for their positive contribution to the Diocese.

Bishop Bill thanked the nominees for their service and noted that women excelled at engaging and encouraging others to become more involved in parish life.

“Many of our parishes would not have changed the way they do things for the past 50 or 60 years and I think it takes a woman’s touch, and her networking skills, to bring about that much needed change,” he said.

The child of Dutch immigrants, Lidy Waanders was

Bishop Bill, Lidy Waanders, Judy Crittenden, Sue Campbell and Petrina Massey

only eight years old when she arrived in Australia.

She credited her parent’s commitment to Catholic education for beginning her life of faith and service to the Church. “I have always been inspired by Mary Magdalene because of her devotion to discipleship, service and evangelisation,” she said.

Throughout her life Lidy has sought to emulate these qualities by giving her time to key pastoral and liturgical programs in the Diocese that seek to spread God’s message. One of her most substantial contributions was the 16 years she spent as a coordinator of Special Religious Education (SRE) in the public school system.

Ecumenical Way of the Cross Sunday 7 April 2019

She also takes communion to the sick, is a World Day of Prayer organiser, leads special liturgy and Sunday Celebrations in Anticipation of Eucharist and is heavily involved in bringing people to the Church via the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

“All of these programs allow us to build the faith,” Lidy said.

“I thank the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle contact group of the Council for Australian Catholic Women for their foresight in creating this positive award for women.”

Todd Dagwell is the Senior Content Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

3.00pm St Joseph’s Church and School Conference Centre Grounds 140 Wangi Rd, Kilaben Bay Afternoon tea provided For more information P 4979 1111

www.mn.catholic.org.au

News

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A U R O R A C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F M A I T L A N D - N E W C A S T L E

Stirring the waters:

Catholic women responding to the Spirit

BY MARGO NANCARROW

Stirring the Waters was an apt name for the Council for Australian Women (CACW) Colloquium 2019 held in Adelaide. including the Church.

role many women have undertaken through the years.

For me the image of water in its many guises can signify calm and peacefulness as in the still pond or the raging torrent of a river in flood. However, when one looks at water, there is movement. If there is not, it stagnates. How women can be ‘responding to the Spirit’ by stirring the waters became very evident through the information provided by the speakers and through the uplifting and thoughtful liturgies.

about and reflection on Mary Magdalene.

This included a discussion on John’s story of Mary at the Tomb. Water was once again included in the liturgy which was accompanied by a call to the Holy Spirit.

Delegates from all over the country were asked to pour a cup of water to into a large bowl that rested on a draped pedestal and remained in place throughout the Colloquium – ‘the bringing of the waters’.

Following morning tea there was a choice of four workshops.

The next series of workshops saw a variety of people address issues related to Mission, Mercy and the Margins.

I attended Women and Leadership in the Church - Past and Present, presented by Dr Christine Cameron. Dr Cameron, an author, teacher and academic focused on the historical aspects of the leadership

I listened to a young man and a young women talk about belonging to the LGQBTI community. They each highlighted their sense of exclusion from many social groups, employment and organisations

Saturday’s session began with information

The keynote speaker, Dr Michele Connolly RSJ, used key texts from the Gospel of Mark to reflect on what it is for women in the Church today to walk the path of faith with others.

The second keynote speaker was Ms Debra Zanelli who spoke on Mission and Mercy in the Papacy of Pope Francis.

Debra highlighted the challenges that vulnerable people face, in particular women, and the responsibility we as people of faith have in responding.

TWEC DINNER

FRIDAY 31 MAY 2019 With special guest, Dr Michele Connolly rsj Does the New Testament speak to contemporary Australia?

One woman’s view

Participants were then encouraged to ‘come to the water’ and place their prayer/petition into the large bowl.

A panel session titled Prayerful & Discerning Church was ably addressed by Ms Lana Turvey-Collins, Ms Sarah Moffatt and Ms Theresa Simon.

At the end of the day we were all given a vial of water to pass to one another with a blessing from our own hearts. The exchange of the water and the blessings signified for me that we are to care for each other, listen carefully to those in need and keep Stirring the Waters.

 6.30pm for 7pm  Therry Centre New England Hwy, East Maitland $65 pp includes canapés, drinks, main meal, dessert and speaker presentation.

Bookings by 21 May to P 4979 1134 E Sharon.Murphy@mn.catholic.org.au Tables of 10, group & individual bookings welcome. Payment options available upon confirmation of booking.

W W W. M N N E W S . T O D AY / A U R O R A - M A G A Z I N E

11

News

Call for patience in the wake of the Vatican abuse summit

BY TODD DAGWELL

Jesuit priest Father Frank Brennan understands the disappointment of sexual abuse victims following the conclusion of the Vatican summit but says the days of the Pope “waving a magic wand” and making sweeping changes to the Church are long gone.

After the summit ended in late February, Australian victims were warned not to expect rapid changes by attendee, Archbishop Mark Coleridge of Brisbane. He said that there was no quick fix to the child sexual abuse scandal plaguing the Catholic Church worldwide.

Speaking exclusively to Aurora, Fr Brennan acknowledged Archbishop Coleridge’s warning had caused anger among some survivors and advocacy groups but said this was due to a misunderstanding of what the summit was intended to achieve.

“I can understand the disappointment of survivors but the Church is so enormous and is a combination of local dioceses around the world,” he said.

“Pope Francis believes it is bishops who should be taking more responsibility at a local level to address the problem. The summit was not intended to make new Church laws but rather to provide a wake-up call to those countries who have not progressed as far down the road as Australia has.”

Australia’s Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse and the Truth, Justice and Healing Council, established by the Australian Catholic Church, were examples of best practice in the area of sexual abuse that would have been held up as a model for other countries at the summit, Fr Brennan said.

“The protection of children is the most important lesson and to achieve this you must have the structures in place and act with transparency and humility,” he said.

Image credit: Shutterstock

“The protection of children is the most important lesson and to achieve this you must have the structures in place and act with transparency and humility,” he said. to bring child abusers to justice as he closed the landmark summit.

Identifying Zimmerman Services as one of these structures, Fr Brennan commended the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle for its handling of the abuse crisis at a local level. “I have often heard this Diocese has provided effective leadership to other dioceses in Australia,” Fr Brennan said.

“I make a heartfelt appeal for an all-out battle against the abuse of minors both sexually and in other areas, on the part of all authorities and individuals, for we are dealing with abominable crimes that must be erased from the face of the earth,” the Pope said.

Archbishop Coleridge said it was now very clear there was no place for child abusers in the church anywhere in the world.

Fr Brennan said whatever actions the Church took in the future it was vital victim support remained at the forefront.

“In the Catholic Church there is nowhere for anyone who thinks they can get away scot-free with abuse,” he said.

“There is nowhere for them to hide and there is nowhere for them to go.”

“I have friends whose daughter suicided as a result of abuse and I always recall that pain and suffering when I speak on this issue,” Fr Brennan said. “We must always put victims front and centre in our minds.”

Pope Francis vowed the church would spare no effort

The Vatican promised there would be concrete

initiatives coming out of the summit. However, some survivors pointed to the lack of a decisive action plan and labelled the Pope’s words “defensive”.

Archbishop Coleridge admitted the initial announcements were “not world-shattering” but he expected greater transparency over church processes including access to its files and a review of the pontifical secret or confidentiality that applies to abuse cases.

At the conclusion of the summit, the Church announced a new child protection policy for the Vatican City State and the creation of a rulebook for bishops and task forces around the world.

Todd Dagwell is the Senior Content Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

CatholicCare

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A U R O R A C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F M A I T L A N D - N E W C A S T L E

Fr Frank Brennan debunks myths

BY TODD DAGWELL

Spread a culture of tolerance and learn to engage respectfully with people who passionately disagree with you.

This was the dominant theme of Fr Frank Brennan’s presentation at CatholicCare’s, Towards Practice Excellence, two-day staff conference held at the Hunter Stadium in late February.

Close to 100 employees attended the 30-minute presentation, Catholic Social Teaching – Debunking the Myths.

Regarded as one of the most progressive members of the Catholic clergy in Australia, Fr Brennan is also a human rights lawyer and academic. He is not without controversy having angered some of his fellow Catholic priests when he supported the Yes campaign during the same-sex marriage debate in 2017. He was also a member of the Religious Freedom Review, chaired

by Philip Ruddock, established to examine whether Australian law adequately protects freedom of religion.

Fr Brennan began his presentation by answering questions on the impact on the Australian Catholic Church of George Pell’s recent conviction for child sexual abuse offences. He went on to identify six key topics relevant to CatholicCare’s mission to assist the most vulnerable members of society.

The topics included: Australia’s humanitarian responsibilities internationally and domestically as one of the wealthiest society’s in history; the current lack of trust in institutions and authority and the consequences; the Catholic position on the Uluru Statement and the call for an independent Indigenous voice in the Federal Parliament; refugee support and the moral failing of offshore detention; the environmental degradation of our country and the planet; the same-sex marriage campaign and the Church’s approach to homosexuality; and the widespread concern that Australian society is becoming increasingly unfair and inequitable.

After his presentation, Fr Brennan spoke exclusively to Aurora on a topic he has been particularly vocal on in recent years – the call to afford women a greater role in Church governance.

“There is absolutely no theological reason why all aspects of Church administration have to be decided by

Fr Frank Brennan presenting Debunking the Myths

We need to change cannon law and our structures to allow more female laity as I believe things would be far better if we had a better balance of men and women in the Church. ordained members,” Fr Brennan said.

“We need to change cannon law and our structures to allow more female laity as I believe things would be far better if we had a better balance of men and women in the Church.”

Fr Brennan said the days of unmarried men being allowed to completely dominate the decision-making process had passed. “The longer we cling to this outdated notion, the more irrelevant we become to the younger generation. We must have female insight in our administration structure.”

While the topics and challenges in all these areas

differ greatly, Fr Brennan’s response held the same fundamental message - a message he asked everyone to always keep in mind.

“How do we accord dignity to all and debate and disagree in a rationale and respectful manner,” he asked.

“It’s very simple - if you are a Catholic you believe in Jesus of Nazareth and therefore you believe everyone is your brother and sister and that we all have a commitment to assisting the poor and the marginalised.”

Todd Dagwell is the Senior Content Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

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CareTalk

I am scared that mental illness may be hereditary My family has a history of mental health issues and even though I haven’t suffered from depression or anxiety, I am scared that mental illness may be hereditary. How can I stay mentally healthy and prevent a possible mental illness in the future?

CatholicCare’s Assistant Director and registered psychologist Tanya Russell, addresses an issue each month.

The advice provided is general in nature and does not replace ongoing support and advice from your health professional.

To talk to someone about counselling support, P 4979 1172.

Call Lifeline 24/7 on P 131 114.

Do you have a question for Tanya?

Email your question to aurora@mn.catholic.org.au or write to Aurora-CareTalk PO Box 756 Newcastle 2300.

Being proactive about mental health is just as important as being proactive in relation to physical health. Taking steps to look after your mental health will provide longlasting benefits.

Social Connectedness: It is important to reach out to people and spend time with others, whether it is through shared interests or just being around family and friends.

You have touched on one of the factors that contributes to the cause of mental illness. However, family history alone is not enough for you to develop mental illness so please be somewhat reassured by this.

Physical Health: Physical exercise is considered nature’s antidepressant as “feel-good” hormones are released through activity. Even going for a relaxing walk adds to the feeling of physical wellbeing and at the same time you are practising a mindfulness activity. Eating a balanced diet will also feed your brain and your gut (which is considered our “second brain”) which in turn will produce positive feelings in you.

Three other major factors also determine whether there is a strong possibility of becoming unwell. They are: personality (our psychological disposition), biology and environment.

We know there are certain personality traits such as perfectionism that can increase vulnerability to mental illness.

Sometimes there is an imbalance of the healthy chemicals in the brain which cause mental illness; and our past and present home, social and work environments impact on our overall health.

If you have concerns relating to some or all causative factors, you can work on increasing factors that can protect you from developing mental health issues.

Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness on a daily basis has shown through scientific study to change brain functioning.

Mindfulness is extremely effective for relaxation purposes but it is really something you can incorporate into everyday life. The premise of mindfulness is focusing all of your senses and thoughts to the present moment. Instead of judging experiences, people and yourself, mindfulness is about noticing and observing and not getting tangled up in all of the negative thoughts that arise.

It is really about getting out of your head and into the “right now”. You can practice mindfulness when going for a walk.

This means that when you are walking, don’t use it as thinking time; focus your thoughts on what you see, hear and feel while you are walking. Notice the scenery, hear the sounds of nature or the city, and observe how your body feels as you are walking. There are thousands, perhaps millions, of articles on mindfulness on the internet and I encourage you to look into this further.

Sleep: Quality of sleep is vital. If sleep is a concern for you, start taking note of what is happening. Keep a sleep diary of your sleep patterns and explore ways to make some changes, ruling out medical conditions or medications first. Again, there are many ways to ensure quality sleep and if you continue to struggle, seek further support. This may be a counsellor or your GP. Type the words “sleep hygiene” if you decide to search the internet for more information.

These are just some of many ideas to keep you mentally healthy and I encourage you to continue to maintain your proactive approach.

Supporting your changing needs Calvary Retirement Communities provides safe, secure and relaxed community living through residential aged care, respite accommodation and independent living villages.

We have care choices available in Belmont, Cessnock, Eleebana, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Sandgate, Singleton, Tanilba Bay, Taree and Waratah to assist you.

Phone: 1800 222 000 | calvarycare.org.au

Superannuation

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A U R O R A C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F M A I T L A N D - N E W C A S T L E

Just who is Australian Catholic Superannuation, anyway?

BY CATHOLIC SUPER

If you’re new to Catholic education or new to working for a Catholic agency, you may not have heard of us before.

Let’s look at a few of the ways we’ve been supporting people just like you for more than three decades.

If you’ve been reading our articles for a while, you may be wondering, “Who is Australian Catholic Superannuation?”

That’s a fair question! Because we don’t have billboards, don’t sponsor football teams and don’t advertise on TV, you probably don’t see our name all that often.

It sounds cliché, but we’re different than other funds. We are specialists in supporting Catholic educators and agency staff in planning for their financial future.

We’re the fund for people who share our values, care about ethical investing and want strong returns driven by responsible governance.

We are a not-for-profit organisation that uses members’ money to create innovative products that support their future planning needs and provide brilliant education and member services.

If you’ve started working for a Catholic agency, you’ll be seeing a lot more of us! We visit workplaces to run seminars, workshops and one-on-one sessions to answer your questions about superannuation and retirement.

You’ll see us out and about at religious and education events. For example, we spoke with younger people at the Australian

Catholic Youth Festival about making the most of their money when they’re just starting in the workforce.

We’re proud to support events like Catholic Schools Week in NSW and Catholic Education Week in QLD because we know the value of Catholic education and want to help spread the word!

Make sure you check out the insights we share in different Catholic publications, just like this one. We discuss how legislative changes and market movements might impact your retirement plans, share tips for making the most of your money and talk with education specialists who share their thoughts about the future of the field.

Also, our members are the first to be notified when we host a seminar. Our educational sessions are designed to help you better understand and take control of your super and finances. We host many different events, from introductions to super (Super, Simple) to intensive retirement planning (Retirement 101). Keep an eye open for a session coming soon!

You don’t have to be a member to take advantage of the learnings.

we do is with the best interests of our members at heart. As an industry fund that specialises in Catholic education and agencies, we’re not beholden to shareholders, and we don’t pay dividends.

We return profits to members or use them for their benefit.

Why do we do this? It’s important to us that we support your needs. Everything

We’re proud to be an excellent fund for people who work in the Catholic system, sharing our ethics and values. If you have questions about what we can do for you, give us a call on 1300 658 776 or visit www.catholicsuper.com.au.

Need help to plan your super?

We can help. Our phone-based advice service offers members clear and concise personal advice on four specific topics.

A qualified adviser can provide personal recommendations for you on: The most tax-effective way to build your super via salary sacrifice and personal contributions.

How to protect your income and your family with insurance through Australian Catholic Superannuation.

Which investment option/s may be right for you.

Investing with non-super money.

Simple and straight forward financial advice over the phone can start you on the right track to achieving your super goals and help build towards the future.

Call us on 1300 658 776 to book an appointment Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, Port Macquarie, Sydney, Townsville

PO Box 656 Burwood, NSW 1805

e fundoffice@catholicsuper.com.au

w www.catholicsuper.com.au

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15

The role of robotics and coding in education

BY AMY THEODORE

Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull once declared coding to be as “fundamental as reading and writing’’ in modern Australia - so it is no surprise schools across the Diocese of MaitlandNewcastle have been increasing their focus on coding and robotics courses.

The world has become increasingly digitalised and schools in the Diocese have responded by prioritising STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects to ensure students have the necessary skills to compete in a technology-dominated workforce of the future.

A number of our schools, such as St James Primary School, Kotara South, and St Pius X High School, Adamstown, have recently adopted technology programs provided by Newcastle- based organisation, Broader Learning. This unique educational enterprise was founded to teach children about robotics and how to use and understand code by providing quality STEM learning programs to schools and students from Kindergarten to Year 12.

Broader Learning Director, James Rabbitt, said the programs taught students the concept of critical thinking and how to use coding and robotics to solve common problems. He said coding also provided students with a new creative medium for expressing themselves and their ideas.

“We ask students to combine problem solving, creativity, computational thinking and spatial awareness in order to navigate their robot through a set challenge or obstacle course,” Mr Rabbitt said.

“This adds a crucial physical element to their coding that more deeply engages students and gives them a sense of pride in their work.

“Our project at St Pius X was a part of the Student Maker Projects initiative that we ran in partnership with groups of high school students from four schools in the Newcastle region,” Mr Rabbitt said.

The aim of this initiative was to provide students with an opportunity to learn STEM skills in a different format. Groups

Jeremy Stewart, Sean Jones, Michael Walker, Markus Antony and Rexaar Torcal with James Rabbitt from Broader Learning

received funding and guidance from an undergraduate mentor provided by Broader Learning, to build a STEM project of their choosing designed to solve a ‘problem’.

“The four students at St Pius X worked with an undergraduate mechatronics engineering student and chose to build an off-road Roomba (robotic vacuum) called the Litterbot, to solve the problem of excessive litter in school playgrounds,” Mr Rabbitt said.

Technology Coordinator at St Pius X, Cherie Borger, said Mr Rabbitt and Broader Learning had been a supporter of St Pius since 2015, when he made regular visits to assist teachers and students with their understanding of coding and robotics.

“We were thrilled to be asked to be a part of the pilot Student Maker Project.

“The mentors from Broader Learning were enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides, encouraging the group to explore practical problem solving in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics domains,” she said “It’s a unique and powerful medium as it allows the sharing of work and creations across the world wide web with people from other countries and walks of life,” he said.

Amy Theodore is a Marketing Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

Education

Education

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A new era of outdoor learning As a school built ‘among the trees’ back in 1974, St James’ Primary School, Kotara South continues to encourage students to learn outdoors with the official opening of Stage One of the masterplan for new outdoor play spaces at the school.

The official opening was held during Catholic Schools Week and was conducted by Gerard Mowbray, Acting Director of Schools; Matthew Hingston, St James P&F President; St James’ School Captains, Grace Worland and Jacob Dempsey and Parish Priest Fr Terry.

Prior to construction of the new space, outdoor settings at St James already offered support to students with growing needs through a sensory garden, a bush tucker garden, an aquaponics garden and a vast range of raised garden beds in the Green Team area.

Through the support of the school’s P&F and various fundraising activities around $42,000 was raised in 2018 to help bring the masterplan to fruition.

The first stage includes a play deck in front of the school sports shed, a creative play levelled stage area with

BY AMY THEODORE

sandstone blocks, a new dry creek bed featuring the school values totems and a tee pee/mud kitchen play space.

These spaces will allow St James’ students to engage in self-determined play and collaborative thinking as they discover, create, improvise and imagine. The new spaces support environmental sustainability while reflecting the culture and history of the school.

“Because the school was founded by the Sisters of Mercy, we are committed to demonstrating our core values of respect, courage, service, justice, compassion and hospitality to everyone we encounter,” said Lucy Harvey, Principal of St James.

She added that the day provided the opportunity to celebrate the Catholic school community - a community of parents, students, staff and parish working together to make St James’ the great school it is today.

“The playground is a welcoming space which reflects and enriches the lives and identities of children, families and staff,” said Kim Moroney, Education Officer for Early Learning at the Catholic Schools Office.

“It’s vibrant and flexible and it’s responsive to the interests and capabilities of the student. These new spaces invite students to play and discover and to contribute ideas, interests and questions.”

Ms Moroney congratulated the St James’ school community for creating a beautiful environment with the children at its centre.

Laila MacDougall and Alicia MacDougall at St James Primary School in Kotara

Amy Theodore is a Marketing Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

Celebrating 100 years of Catholic education in Gloucester BY AMY THEODORE As part of the Catholic Schools Week celebrations, St Joseph’s Primary School, Gloucester commemorated 100 years since the arrival of the Sisters of St Joseph and the start of Catholic education in Gloucester.

The celebrations to contribution of the Sisters of St Joseph to both the school and community involved principals, teacher, families and friends from the school community and beyond.

The day began with a celebration Mass which was coordinated by Bronwyn Underwood, Principal at St Joseph’s and Lee Sullivan, Religious Education Coordinator at St Joseph’s.

Students from St Joseph’s took in the service and led the Mass in song.

After the service there was a light lunch at which visitors gathered, with many taking trips down memory lane.

The connection that the Sisters of St Joseph have with Gloucester dates back to 1919 when it was part of the Parish of Dungog.

A new brick convent - built for the Sisters – was officially opened and blessed on 26 January 1919.

School lessons then started the very next day for 58 pupils. The founding Sisters were Sisters Mary Brigid, Mary James and Mary Bernadine.

In 1953, a new brick church/school was blessed and opened with the building was divided into classrooms – each with school desks and furniture.

In 1964, a weatherboard classroom was built for Years 3, 4, 5 and 6.

A new brick school, consisting of three classrooms and an office/storeroom space, was built, opened and blessed by Bishop Toohey in 1969. For first time classes were taught out of the Church.

“Over the past 100 years Sisters of St Joseph, lay teachers and all support staff have endeavoured to help each child grow to his or her full potential by developing the child’s capabilities, spiritually, intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically and culturally,” said Sarah Fulton.

Sr Kate Brazier, Sr Ellen Shanahan, Georgia Morten, Caysha Smith Sarah’s family members have a long history of both working at and attending St Joseph’s. They also helped organised the event along with her mother, Barbara Mansfield.

“A beautiful environment and commitment to the care and learning of every child distinguishes St. Joseph’s as a school community,” she said.

Amy Theodore is a Marketing Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

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Alumni

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Former classmates a great network

BY BRITTANY GONZALEZ

One of the most important things for me has been the network of business professionals I have in the Newcastle region. From solicitors and graphic designers to property developers, my former classmates provide a great network for me to work with in the business community.

Justin Hales’ success story began when nostalgia for the family holidays of his youth in Kurri Kurri drove him to create an Airbnb-style online disruptor for the caravan holiday market. The idea came to him after he decided that buying a caravan to relive his family holidays was not a viable option.

This led to him creating Camplify, a business that offers people a way to rent out their caravans when they are not using them to those who don’t own caravans. It’s great for those who want to experience the joys of a caravan holiday in an affordable way, so it’s a win-win for both owners and renters!

Camplify today enables people to rent not

only caravans but also motorhomes and campervans.

How did your Catholic education help you in starting up and/or running your business?

For me my education provided me with lots of great skills for the business work.

Key to my education was the foundational understanding of being able to know how to effectively learn, discover new concept, and teach myself continuous self-improvement. Also important in the business world - and a skill learned firmly in school - was how to effectively work in a team, both through classroom activities, and on the sports fields.

That said, one of the most important things for me has been the network of business professionals I have in the Newcastle region. From solicitors and graphic designers to property developers, my former classmates provide a great network for me to work with in the business community.

Which Catholic schools did you attend? Do you still have strong connections with classmates and/or teachers today?

St Patrick’s Primary School and All Saints College High School, Maitland. I’m still in contact with most of my classmates from primary and high school, and I’m close with a handful of lifelong friends from high school. Some of my teachers have in fact become my customers in my business which is a nice connection.

Why did your parents choose Catholic schools for you?

My family is from a strong catholic upbringing, with multi-generations attending Catholic Schools. We have a strong family belief in the morals, ethics, and ethos taught at Catholic schools. All Saints College (St Joseph’s) is the school my grandmother, mother, myself, and my sister have all attended. My parents are also teachers and have dedicated a combined total of 90 years of service to

Catholic Schools. So fair to say we are supporters.

What does Easter mean to you?

Easter is a time for thought and reflection.

As a Catholic, for me the Easter festival is a celebration of new life, and lots of time with family in these celebrations. From the seafood and service start of Good Friday to the Easter Sunday Mass and roast lunch, it is a great time in the Hales household. It is also the busiest time of the year for our business as Easter is prime camping time.

What advice would you have for people who want to camp at Easter?

First, book early! Easter is one of the busiest times of year to head out camping. RVs and camping spots fill up quickly. So if you miss out this year be sure to book for next year in advance.

Second, Easter is the best climate for camping there is. The days are warm, and the nights are starting to cool, but the water is still warm enough to enjoy a dip.

Not only that, but Easter is a great time of the year for fishing, the ultimate Catholic pastime.

Brittany Gonzalez is a Communications Co-ordinator for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

Early Education

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The once vacant block in the centre of a small township has since been replaced with a children’s natureinspired wonderland, creating endless opportunities for play-based learning in a unique setting.

Kids wonderland at Lochinvar wins award The township of Lochinvar, nestled in the picturesque Hunter Valley, is on the cusp of experiencing immense change. What was once a rural area is now earmarked for significant growth.

On the back of the opening of the Lochinvar premises, Kidsafe Australia recently cited St Nicholas Early Education as one of 19 national leaders in playspace design.

With this in mind, when the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle made the decision to deliver the township its first early education centre, the Diocese ensured it incorporated engaging play-spaces that invoked the township’s rural foundation and rich Aboriginal history.

Kay Lockhart, Manager of the Kidsafe NSW Playground Advisory Unit, said that the Lochinvar project received a Highly Commended Kidsafe National Playspace Design Award because the judges agreed that the well-designed outdoor learning space allowed children to move freely throughout.

A strong, local Aboriginal influence has been incorporated into the centre design - including room names, to reflect the history of the area, and was reinforced with a smoking ceremony at the official opening of the centre. Additionally, circle forms radiate throughout the playground, reflective of patterns seen in nature, indigenous culture, and rural settings.

“Innovation, nature, local culture and community are the cornerstones for the design of the St Nicholas Early Education Centre in Lochinvar, considered by many to be an educators dream and every child’s wonderland of play experiences,” said Kerri Armstrong, Operations Manager at St Nicholas Early Education.

And it’s not just children and educators who are impressed with the state-of-theart centre.

“The variety of play provisions allows children to explore, to engage with natural elements, to investigate and to feel a sense of wonder. The sweeping curved shapes and paths create inviting spaces for multiple uses,” Kay said.

The design of the Lochinvar centre, as well as creating a safe play space, is underpinned by the importance of children’s self-determined play.

“Play provides opportunities for children to learn as they discover, create, improvise and imagine,” Kerri said.

Principles of self-sufficiency are promoted at the centre with the inclusion of vegetable gardens that can be tended to by the children. A rainwater tank demonstrates the water cycle by collecting water from the barn roof and

BY LIZZIE SNEDDEN

then plumbed to create creeks running into the sandpit. There is also a mud pit that features Boris the timber pig who the children love to climb on and cuddle.

“We’re thrilled that industry leaders such as Kidsafe, educators, parents and most importantly- children, have embraced the design of the Lochinvar centre.

Breaking away from the main play areas are clusters that provide spaces for smaller groups. These include sandpits, an amphitheatre for performances and outdoor lessons.

“St Nicholas is committed to creating welcoming spaces which invite children to engage, explore and respond to the world around them, which in this instance proudly boasts many local, natural and cultural elements,” she added.

“The inclusion of an amphitheatre that extends children’s opportunities for dramatic and social play is fantastic,” Kerri said.

Lizzie Snedden is the Team Leader Content for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

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CatholicCare

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Autism needs greater awareness

BY LIZZIE SNEDDEN

Liz’s 11-year-old son, Jensen, was only four when he was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level 2. For Liz, the diagnosis was a “massive weight off my shoulders” and proved useful when she needed to access early intervention services to support her son.

Years later when Liz took Jensen’s older sister Charlotte, aged eight, to a psychologist for assistance with social issues, she too was diagnosed with ASD Level 2 and ADHD. “The diagnosis came as a massive shock. I could see Charlotte was busy, impulsive and struggled with friends, which I thought would be ADHD and nothing else,” Liz said.

CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning psychologist, Cheryl Brown, said current research suggested that girls with ASD presented differently to boys. This meant they were often misdiagnosed, undiagnosed or received a diagnosis later than boys, typically as a teenager or adult.

The consequences of this can mean girls continue to struggle for longer, without appropriate levels of support.

“We had a lot of early intervention with Jensen but sadly Charlotte missed out on this because of her age,” Liz said.

Girls with ASD have a complex set of social behaviours: they tend to observe others and learn to mimic social interactions; have problems forming and maintaining friendships; they have special interests that tend to be more conventional (than boys) but are unusual in terms of intensity; they wear a ‘mask’ in public but will melt down the second they are home; they have more imagination and pretend play, although, on closer observation may just be acting out a social script; they have better communication skills than boys but will sometimes have an unusual aspect to their language; and they may be obsessive about the way they organise things to the point of perfectionism and have similar sensory sensitivities to boys but their reactions are often more intense.

After Charlotte had received the diagnosis, many of her quirks started to make more sense and Liz said she was able to offer her more practical support.

“When Charlotte was little she loved reading and spelling and was a very smart little cookie. In my mind I didn’t think of ASD nor did I think anything of her fussy eating,

After Charlotte had received the diagnosis, many of her quirks started to make more sense and Liz said she was able to offer her more practical support. her routines, her conversation around the same subject or her wanting to hang out with the adults instead of the child she was playing with,” Liz said.

Liz said that Charlotte’s diagnosis did not come with the same level of support and understanding from professionals that she experienced with Jensen.

Seeking the absolute best for her children has meant that Liz has become a tireless advocate for children diagnosed with ASD. “When a parent or caregiver approaches a professional, like a teacher, asking for a letter of support or wanting to discuss (a child) having problems at school due to friendships or anything else, listen to them without

forming an opinion straight away,” Liz urged.

“Support the parents, fill out the paperwork, communicate with them about their child’s day and observe their friendship circle. This information and support can and will make a significant difference in the life of the child.”

In the future, Charlotte hopes to be a teacher.

“I hope that I can have two very independent ASD adults that are able to live their life to the fullest, using their strengths as superpowers,” Liz said.

Lizzie Snedden is the Team Leader Content for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

Soul Food “The most common one-liner in the Bible is, “Do not be afraid.” Someone counted, and it occurs 365 times.”

Richard Rohr, Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life

Social

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A U R O R A C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F M A I T L A N D - N E W C A S T L E

Faces and places in our Diocese Catholic Schools Week 2019 Schools throughout the Diocese opened their doors for Catholic Schools Week 2019 held on 3-9 March. This year’s theme was Learn, Serve, Belong.

Each school celebrated its connection to the community, the diversity of learning and the supportive and inclusive environment that students experience as part of their Catholic education.

School communities welcomed families, students, staff and parish members to celebrate the week with open classrooms, liturgies, shared picnic lunches, morning teas, tabloid sports and open days. Ash Wednesday was also celebrated across the Diocese, which saw schools put on celebrations for the first day of Lent. The annual Diocesan Theatre Sports competition, held at The Factory Theatre at St Pius X High School in Adamstown, was also a great success. It was definitely a week of celebration, fun and excitement for all our schools!

Baby Isabelle, Josh and Brooke Boughton at St Aloysius Primary School in Chisholm

Chris and Haddie Cook at Holy Spirit Infants School in Abermain

Johnathon, Sophie and Karrie Cooper at St James’ Primary School in Muswellbrook

Kandice, Lyla and Cameron at St Joseph’s Primary School in East Maitland

Kima, Susan and Ethan Gleeson at St Columban’s Primary School in Mayfield

Laila MacDougall and Alicia MacDougall at St James’ Primary School in Kotara

Max and Kerrie McCullum at St John the Baptist Primary School in Maitland

Nicole, Ava and Andrew Fawcett at St Peter’s Primary School in Stockton

Tara Hanson, Jaxson Roberts and Amy Parker at Rosary Park Catholic School in Branxton

Several schools also participated in our photo competition demonstrating how their community promotes belonging – whether through sporting teams, through play or through faith. The photos demonstrated the inclusivity and diversity of our school communities.

To view mega galleries and videos of the week, go to mnnews.today.

Term investments with the CDF offer a way to invest while also supporting the Catholic community.

Earn a competitive rate of interest, while choosing the timeframes that are right for you. Choose from 3, 6 or 12 month options.

For more information about our services, including our Terms and Conditions. Freecall 1800 810 330 or visit www.cdfmn.com.au Investments with Catholic Development Fund (CDF) are guaranteed by Bishop William Wright, Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle Diocese and CDPF Limited, a company established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference for this purpose. We welcome your investment with the CDF rather than with a profit oriented commercial organisation as a conscious commitment by you to support the Charitable, Religious and Educational works of the Catholic Church. The CDF is not subject to the provisions of the Corporation Act 2001 nor has it been examined or approved by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. The CDF is also exempt from the normal requirements to have a disclosure statement or Product Disclosure Statement under the Corporations Act 2001(Cth).

Neither CDF nor the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle are prudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority. Contributions to CDF do not obtain the benefit of the depositor protection provisions of the Banking Act 1959. CDF is designed for investors who wish to promote the charitable purposes of the Diocese.

W W W. M N N E W S . T O D AY / A U R O R A - M A G A Z I N E

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Community Noticeboard

Community Noticeboard Marriage and Relationship Education Courses 2019

couples transition to parenthood. FOCCUS Individual Sessions by appointment only.

Marriage Education is a vital part of planning for a life partnership. CatholicCare offers a selection of courses for married and soon-to-be married couples.

For further information on all our courses please contact Robyn Donnelly P 02 4979 1370 E rdonnelly@catholiccare.org.au.

Couples are advised to attend a course around four months prior to the wedding.

Book early as some courses are very popular. Before We Say I Do is a group program held Friday evening and Saturday as advertised and the FOCCUS group program is three Monday evening sessions.

Ecumenical Way of the Cross

Marriage and Relationship Education Course – FOCCUS at the Toohey Room, Newcastle, 6 and 13 May. 5.15-7.30pm (Session 3 to be confirmed).

Before We Say I Do, 7 and 8 June at the Toohey Room, Newcastle. Friday 5-9pm, Saturday 9am-5pm.

Marriage and Relationship Education Course – FOCCUS at the Toohey Room, Newcastle, 29 July and 5 August. 5.15-7.30pm (Session 3 to be confirmed).

Before We Say I Do, 23 and 24 August at the Toohey Room, Newcastle. Friday 5-9pm, Saturday 9am-5pm.

Marriage and Relationship Education Course – FOCCUS at the Toohey Room, Newcastle, 28 October and 4 November. 5.15-7.30pm (Session 3 to be confirmed).

Will be held at St Joseph’s Conference Centre, 140 Wangi Rd, Kilaben Bay on Sunday 7 April at 3pm. Afternoon tea provided. P 4979 1111.

Taize Style Vocal Workshop and Service Will be held on Sunday 14 April at Adamstown Uniting Church 228 Brunker Rd, Adamstown. Vocal Music Workshops with songs of Taize led by Trish Watts 3pm-4.30pm. Followed by tea break then 5pm Taize style service.

Contact Rev. Jennifer Burns minister. merewetheruca@gmail.com.

P 0411 133 679.

Say Yes to Refugees: Palm Sunday Picnic You are invited to join a multi-faith Palm Sunday event in Newcastle on 14 April from 12 noon to 2pm at the Foreshore Park, near the Tram-sheds. The event will be a family picnic with speakers. Palm Sunday events are traditionally held on the themes of peace and justice. In recent years this has included a focus on asylum seekers and refugees.

Before We Say I Do, 22 and 23 November at the Toohey Room, Newcastle. Friday 5-9pm, Saturday 9am-5pm.

Amnesty Newcastle, in conjunction with other groups promoting human rights and the just treatment of refugees, are inviting all of the major faith groups to support this event.

We also have a wait list for our Bringing Baby Home workshop which assists

The theme of the event will be ’Say Yes to Refugees’ urging that refugees detained

offshore be resettled in Australia or in another country that welcomes them.

Bring your own picnic food and drinks.

Chrism Mass Will be held Tuesday 16 April, at 7pm at Sacred Heart Cathedral Hamilton.

P 4979 1111.

For your diary April 7

Way of the Cross (see opposite)

14

Palm Sunday

Taize Style Workshop and Service

Annual TWEC Dinner Will be held on Friday 31 May at 6:30pm at Therry Centre, New England Hwy, East Maitland. Speaker will be Dr Michele Connolly rsj on ‘Does the New Testament speak to contemporary Australia?’ $65 includes canapés, drinks and dinner. Bookings by 21 May P 4979 1134 or E Sharon.Murphy@mn.catholic.org.au.

(see opposite)

Sunday Picnic (see opposite) 16

Mums’ Cottage Invites grandparents to Grandparent and Toddler day held every Wednesday during school terms from 10am-noon at 29 St Helen’s Street, Holmesville. Enjoy some companionship with other grandparents while children play.

Mums’ Cottage offers a range of services, programs, workshops and family events and you are most welcome to attend.

For more information, P Mums’ Cottage 4953 4105, E admin@mumscottage.org.au or visit www.mumscottage.org.au.

Say Yes to Refugees: Palm

Chrism Mass 7pm at Sacred Heart Cathedral

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Good Friday (See mn.catholic. org.au for times of Easter services)

20

Easter Saturday

21

Easter Sunday

22

Easter Monday

25

ANZAC Day

Stay up to date with news from across the Diocese mnnews.today mnnews.today

/mnnewstoday

@mnnewstoday

@mnnewstoday

Easter Mass times available on the Dio App The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle app is available for download here

Last Word

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A U R O R A C AT H O L I C D I O C E S E O F M A I T L A N D - N E W C A S T L E

I Call You Friends – Friendship with Jesus in Daily Life: Book Review

BY BROOKE ROBINSON

I Call You Friends is a collection of reflections on prayer, gathered over a lifetime of thinking and praying. Patrick O’Sullivan sj is clearly a man who has lived what he is writing about - and who has so much wisdom and encouragement for Catholics.

Fr Pat says, “If Jesus is at the centre of my life, so that the basic context for any experience is my relationship with him, then the whole quality of my life changes. My life becomes a partnership with Jesus”.

This book was very easy to read. It has short chapters, so that it can be picked up, read, then immediately followed by prayer. Each chapter leads into an opportunity to reflect, pray and grow in relationship with Jesus.

I was struck by the clear, deep friendship that Fr Patrick has with Jesus, as shown in the language, stories and encouragement to readers.

Many of the chapters spoke to me and allowed my relationship with Jesus to be deepened, as I took opportunities to reflect on what I had read, and how it relates to me.

were the people on whom Jesus chose to build his church; it is very much the same today.

According to Fr Pat, Jesus loves us to pieces, and has chosen us to help bring about his Father’s Reign in the world, and that will never change because he loves us unconditionally.

In a chapter on discernment, Fr Pat says, “For discernment, we need to be in touch with our heart and to learn to be still.

If our heart is busy, we won’t pick up on what is going on.

Just as water has to be still to give a true reflection, so there will be no true reflection of reality if we are in turmoil.”

I highly recommend this book as a companion for prayer. It is easy to read, full of wisdom and will help readers to grow in faith and deepen their relationship with Jesus.

I Call You Friends – Friendship With Jesus in Daily Life is published by David Lovell Publishing, Melbourne Australia, 2018.

One chapter looks at the early church compared to today’s church. Fr Pat found it comforting to realise just how fragile

Chef Bartholomew Connors, Cathedral Café.

Ingredients Pork  1 kg pork shoulder

(ask butcher to bone and remove rind)

 1 carrot - thickly sliced

Asian Pulled Pork Salad This month I thought I would share a great slow cooker recipe.

This can be used for lunch in burgers or wraps, or as a salad for dinner.

 1 brown onion - thickly sliced

Method

 4 star anise

On a low heat in a heavy based casserole pot, sauté carrot, onion, star anise and cinnamon quill for 10 minutes.

 1 cinnamon quill Salad Buy a pre pack Asian slaw mix or make your own with:  shredded green cabbage  shredded purple cabbage  shredded carrot  sliced mint leaves

Fill the casserole pot half way with water, add pork, cook for 5 hours. Use either a slow cooker or oven on low 150 degree Celsius (fan forced).

Toss together salad ingredients , pour over the dressing and toss together.

While warm, use a fork to pull the pork.

 coriander

Arrange on a plate.

 toasted peanuts

Top with extra peanuts, coriander and chilli.

Dressing Equal parts of brown sugar/ lime juice with half part fish sauce.

Dash of vegetable oil, salt and white pepper - whisk together.

Brooke Robinson is Content Officer for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

Chef Bart’s culinary gifts can be enjoyed at Cathedral Café, 843 Hunter St Newcastle West.

9am–1.30pm, Monday to Friday.

P 4961 0546.

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