The Southern Cross - 120725 by The Southern Cross

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July 25 to July 31, 2012

Why the Lord’s Prayer should be sung at Mass

Mphuthumi Ntabeni on the Apostles’ Creed

Page 10

R6,00 (incl VAT RSA)

Reg No. 1920/002058/06

No 4785

Athletes on success in sport and life

Page 7

Page 9

SA Catholic ready to launch Olympic Games chaplaincy BY CLAIRE MATHIESON

T Fr Andrew Bwalya MCCJ, editor of Worldwide magazine, praying for the healing of a pilgrim during a laying on of hands ceremony during the Eucharistic Congress of the archdiocese of Pretoria. (Photo: Mathibela Sebothoma)

Pretoria Eucharistic Congress turnout topped expectations BY MATHIBELA SEBOTHOMA

‘T

HE Eucharist must be the centre of our lives”, Archbishop William Slattery of Pretoria told pilgrims gathered to honour Jesus in the Eucharist. More than 7 000 Catholics from the rural and urban parishes braved the cold winter to fill the open grounds of the Christian Brothers College in Silverton to celebrate the first Eucharistic Congress in the archdiocese of Pretoria. The organising committee had procured only five thousand chairs. Pilgrims had to use any available space to participate in the festival. Neo Rakoma, diocesan youth coordinator, thanked the priests for ensuring that Catholics came in their hundreds. “The priests were key in promoting this event, they encouraged their parishioners to attend the congress” said Mr Rakoma. The archdiocese used posters, e-mail and social media such as Facebook to invite participation. “I was impressed that so many came on such a cold day, and at the generous and positive spirit of the day,” said Fr Chris Townsend, information officer of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference. However Betty Mpila of Soshanguve was shocked that white Catholics were almost absent. “I don’t know why they don’t attend diocesan events,” she said. Archbishop Slattery emphasised the importance of the Eucharist by employing memorable and sometimes humorous short stories and illustrations. Archbishop Slattery consecrated the archdiocese to the Sacred Heart. “In addition to the consecration of the archdiocese, I invite families to make a family act of consecration as a reminder that Christ should be the centre of the family, the domestic church,” he said. “We need Jesus Christ to bring peace to the home, unite families, and bless them with all the graces necessary for their state in life. The Eucharist is a visible reminder of the merciful love of the Lord that flows from his heart.” James Tshoke of Garankuwa said “the main message for the Eucharistic Congress

was that Jesus Christ is alive in the Eucharist and if we believe and entrust ourselves to him we will have life in abundance. As Christians we are priests, kings and prophets and as a consequence we must serve humanity.” The emphasis on the Eucharist “made me realise how we need the practice of adoring the Blessed Sacrament which is lacking in some of our parishes,” Mr Tshoke said. “Receiving the Holy Communion should move people outside the church, into the streets, into the world to serve those in need.”

or Ignitia Motiang of Mabopane, “the most important thing was to unite the archdiocese as the one body of Christ in Pretoria, to gather around the Eucharist to adore, praise and worship together”. Fr Robert Mphiwe of Centurion said: “It is the Lord in the Eucharist that carried us as the diocese to where we are and it is him who continues to animate and sustain us a local Church.” True devotion to the Eucharist should also “recommit ourselves as community to social justice”, the priest said. Almost all the pilgrims came for the laying on of hands by the priests. According to Fr Finbarr Flanagan OFM of Waterkloof, “the emphasis on healing was very important as we Catholics tend to downplay this ministry. Every person who wanted could go to a priest for a healing prayer.” The congress was personally fulfilling for Jennifer Jacobs of Pretoria West. “Jesus will meet us where we are, draw us to his Sacred Heart, and bless us with every spiritual blessing that we need. He will comfort us where we hurt, heal our wounds, forgive our sins, strengthen our faith, give us a sense of purpose, encourage us in good works, and send us back to our world with the confident assurance that he will never leave us nor forsake us,” she said. Fr Robert Mphiwe thanked the City of Tshwane for providing water tanks, emergency and security services. Bernard Mokwena had donated use of his sound system for the event which most participants felt should be held annually.

HE Catholic Church is geared up to provide pastoral care to the visiting athletes and their entourage at the July 27 to August 12 Summer Olympics and the Paralympics August 24 to 29—and a South African has been part of the planning. Frank van Velzen, assistant Catholic coordinator of the Games and a former parishioner of Queenswood parish in Pretoria, said his office had been working hard at involving Catholics in the Games. The inter-denominational Joshua Camp trained youth in mission, new evangelisation and putting it into practice; conferences on sports, theology and disability saw visitors from the Vatican, Knights of St Columba and local delegates discussing Pope John Paul II’s theology linked to the Paralympics; and 100 Days of Peace saw participants from around the country committing to be positive and peaceful forces within their communities. “This tradition stems from ancient times when before and after the Games all fighting stopped to allow the athletes to travel to and from the Games safely,” said Mr van Velzen. The programme has been rolled out in schools and allows people to take part in social justice and to see peace. “It’s an opportunity to show people what peace looks like in their communities,” Mr van Velzen said. James Parker, Catholic coordinator of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, said it is expected that a higher number of Catholics will visit Britain during the 2012 Games compared to previous events due to the proximity of London to Catholic Europe.

It has been speculated that around two thirds of athletes competing at the Olympic and Paralympic Games are from Christian countries, and that a half of these—therefore a third in total—are from Catholic nations and are likely therefore to be baptised Catholics. “This means that out of a total of 22 500 athletes and officials, approximately 7 500 could well be Catholic,” Mr Parker said. Mr van Velzen said the run-up to the Olympics has been quite different to what he had experienced during the lead up to the 2010 Football World Cup in South Africa. “The UK has staged big events before, whereas the World Cup was the biggest thing we had seen in South Africa. It was easy to be excited at home, whereas here it has been harder to enthuse people.” Mr van Velzen said English society was also less forthcoming with faith. “It’s a struggle to get athletes to reveal their faith. It’s hard to find athletes to speak openly about it,” he said. However, he added, the work the Church is doing during the Games represents a big evangelisation opportunity as well as being an event from which “we can learn a lot”. Said Mr Parker: “We are encouraging people to be unashamedly Catholic, as we should be every day, Games or no Games, but [now] to make an extra effort to reach out to others with a warm welcome. Visitors are more likely to be interested in the Catholic faith through unconditional service, done with no agenda.” Mr Parker said there were several key ways Catholics have been encouraged to welcome Continued on page 3

Cardinal: Wear faith on your wrist STAFF REPORTER

N a letter addressed to the archdiocese of Durban, Cardinal Wilfrid Napier has suggested that wristbands form part of the Year of Faith campaign, in Durban and even throughout Southern Africa. The Year of Faith, proclaimed by Pope Benedict, will run from October 11 this year until November 24, 20-13. Its launch coincides with the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council. “This is a timely reminder that each of us is called to use this time of spiritual grace to proclaim the Gospel anew by living and professing our faith in our parishes, our homes, our families, our religious communities, our schools and even our workplaces,” Cardinal Napier wrote. “Pope Benedict is also calling all of us to make special occasions during this Year of Faith to make a public profession of the Creed,” he said Following on from the successful “Band Together” wristband campaign during Lent, Cardinal Napier has commissioned Fr Desmond Royappen to design another wrist band. It will display the ancient Christian symbol of the fish and the words “Credo Domine” (I believe, Lord). “Wrist bands are not only very popular,

but they are also a wonderful way of reminding us to keep our commitment to our faith, as well as to identify ourselves as Catholic who have made a special pledge to be faithful during this Year of Faith,” said Cardinal Napier. Each wrist band comes with a card with a prayer for the Year of Faith and a statement of commitment. The cards are available in English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Sotho, Xhosa, Setswana, Portuguese, French and Italian. “The bands are for all age groups, so that everyone can be an evangeliser who is happy and proud to be a Catholic who is committed to making a difference by living and spreading the Catholic faith,” the cardinal wrote. The wrist bands cost R7 per band. For bulk orders above 500, the bands will cost R6 per item. n For more information or to order the wrist bands, contact Fr Royappen on 031-3031890 or 031-3031905 or desroyappen@iafrica.com

LOCAL

The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

ACTS to become part of the working Church CLAIRE MATHIESON

ATHOLIC students converged on the University of Zululand in July when the Association of Catholic Tertiary Students (ACTS) held its 19th annual conference in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal. The university, better known as Ongoye to locals, played host to the students and their chaplains from various different institutions around the country as they met under the theme “the working Church”, inspired by James 2:14-26. National youth chaplain Fr Sammy Mabusela CSS said the conference paved the direction that “the students are moving towards, not only as the association based in tertiary institutions, but as Catholic youths who are organs of the Church within society”. Speakers included Fr Chris Townsend, communication officer of the Southern African

Catholic Bishops’ Conference, who gave a talk on the apostolic exhortation Africae munus. Raymond Perrier, national convenor of the Hope&Joy network, spoke about the Second Vatican Council and how the youth can bring hope and joy to our world, imbued with the spirit of Vatican II. Fr Mabusela said discussions, talks and sharing experiences from the different institutions formed part of the programme. “This convention authenticated a mutual bond, interconnectedness and oneness among everyone who was present—students, alumni, guests and chaplains across South Africa.” He added that it gave the chaplains an opportunity to experience various and divergent concerns and challenges faced by students in the country’s universities, society and the changing Church of today. “A day spent at Alkantstrand beach in Richards Bay, group discussions with the chaplains, the

vigil, a presentation on the Theology of the Body and nail-biting elections formed part of the highlights of the conference.” Fr Mabusela said the quality of presentations was also inspiring, with Bishop José Luis Ponce de León of Ingwavuma, the main celebrant of the opening Mass, encouraging the youth, and the likes of Radio Veritas presenter and ACTS alumnus Kani Buthelezi talking about a way forward. Ms Buthelezi has helped popularise the organisation, Fr added Mabusela. Bishop Ponce de León called the youth to become the country’s new leaders. “We need you to be leaders! We need you to lead this journey. We need you to lead in finding answers to the challenges faced by our people in the country,” he said in his homily. The bishop called the assembled group of ACTS members “today and tomorrow’s Church” and “the country of today and

Aids Office signs new agreements STAFF REPORTER

HE Aids Office of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference has signed a longawaited agreement with the national Department of Social Development regarding cooperation at the National Action Committee for Children Affected by Aids (NACCA). The Aids Office has been a member of NACCA since 2001, serving on various committees helping to formulate policies for children affected by HIV/Aids, and working on the new children’s legislation and training for community child care workers. “The agreement recognises the contribution of the Church and its presence at NACCA. Going forward it is hoped that children in affected

communities will be the beneficiaries of services provided through the department”, said the Aids Office’s director, Sr Alison Munro OP. Moreover, the Aids Office and the Tapologo ARV programme in Rustenburg have signed a service level agreement with the Bojanala District of the North West department of health. Its intent is to strengthen collaboration between the Church and the department in the provision of anti-retroviral services to people served through Tapologo, one of the biggest treatment projects of the Aids Office’s PEPFAR-funded treatment programme. The department has committed to providing anti-retroviral drugs in view of the pending ending of the PEPFAR grant.

ACTS held its 19th annual conference in Empangeni at the University of Zululand. of tomorrow”. nity of friends.” Fr Mabusela said ACTS is a The office bearers for the new home for Catholic youths in ter- year are Takalani Phethi (national tiary institutions and hopes it president), Steven Phiri (generalwill continue to grow. “The door secretary), Zithulele Jabu Tshabalis open for more to come and ala (treasurer) and Linda Fekisi join this Christ-centred commu- (media and publicity officer).

St Francis College alumni to meet BY MAURICIO LANGA

T Francis College in Mariannhill is set to host a breakfast gathering with its alumni on August 18. Principal Jabulani Nzama said the breakfast gathering is aimed at bringing together the alumni, not only to share their rich experiences and memories, but also to establish and maintain relationships with alumni within the country so that in the future the school can benefit from any possible assistance that they can provide. “The school is privileged to have a number of former learners who are working or occupying positions of influence in our society,” said Mr Nzama. “For this reason, we use past learners to contact any friends or relatives who are graduates of the school and have not received any correspondence from St Francis College.” Mr Nzama said that some alumni have maintained a close relationship with the school and assisted it in various ways. Notably, the class of 1979 has in the recent past played a

Members of the school management team preparing for the fundraising function. (From left ) Ms Kuboni, Jabulani Nzama and Mrs P Nxumalo. vital role in sponsoring the school matric trips to the Kruger National Park, coordinated by Dr Bandile Mkhize, head of the park at the time, said Mr Nzama. A group of recent alumni who are currently studying in different tertiary institutions, as well as graduates, have visited

the school to motivate the grade 12 learners, as well as give advice on succeeding at the tertiary level. For catering purposes, the school requests a contribution of R200 per person. n To book and for account details, please contact the school on 031 700 2824.

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LOCAL

Youth, university and airwaves BY CLAIRE MATHIESON

GROUP of 28 underprivileged children from the Edmund Rice Camps (ERC) visited the University of Cape Town where they experienced a day in the life of a DJ at the campus station, a tour of the campus, as well as a football game on the university’s fields, and a visit to Rhodes memorial. Southern African Youth Coordinator of the Edmund Rice Network, Jessica Dewhurst, said the outing was aimed at inspiring the youth to want to achieve more with their lives. “My involvement with the camps started five years ago. I started as a volunteer filling roles such as leader, team leader and camp captain. My love for the Edmund Rice family has grown over the past ten years as I went to a Christian Brothers School, CBC St John’s in Parklands.” Ms Dewhurst has since travelled to the birthplace of Blessed Edmund Rice and today works as youth coordinator of the network. “Working with the underprivileged youth of South Africa for the past five years has really been eye opening for me in regards to the mindsets of the children living in these realities,” Ms Dewhurst said. “It broke my heart to see so many talented, beautiful and ambitious young teens never pursuing a better future, simply because they believed that a better future could not be achieved, and that they would forever be hindered by their circumstances.” ERC are structured around life skills, recreation, role model encounters and creating opportu-

Children from the Edmund Rice Camps spend a day at the University of Cape Town campus station where they experienced a day in the life of a DJ. (Photo: submitted by Jessica Dewhurst) nities for young and vulnerable people to celebrate the joy of childhood and to collect memories that will give a better shape to their futures. The camps serve vulnerable children over a period of three to five days during the school holidays. “We work with disadvantaged youth, refugee youth, children infected or affected by HIV/Aids, as well as kids who have been physically, sexually or mentally abused,” said Ms Dewhurst. Ms Dewhurst decided to combine two of her passions and, as the head manager of Talk at UCT Radio, arranged the outing with the support of colleagues at the station. “We wanted to challenge these assumptions [that the children have] and show the youth of South Africa that they could achieve whatever they put their heart into achieving. We wanted to give the children the opportunity, inspiration and information

needed in order to support whatever future they decided to pursue,” she said. The day started with a meetand-greet of the ERC buddies, volunteers and UCT Radio members. Each teen was given a UCT Radio bag filled with stickers, a pencil case, socks, arm warmers, UCT booklets informing the students about application processes and information packs about UCT Radio, the University of Cape Town and Rhodes memorial. Ms Dewhurst said overall the teens had a great time. “It was also lovely to see some teens going through the UCT booklet and proudly announcing that they would try harder to get better marks and study after high school.” This project was the first of its kind, said Ms Dewhurst, adding that it will hopefully become an annual event.

Cathca visits Swaziland C STAFF REPORTER

ATHOLIC health care in Swaziland faces many of the same challenges faced in South Africa, only on a much smaller scale. Director Yvonne Morgan and Loek Goemans of Catholic Health Care Association of Southern Africa (Cathca) visited various health care facilities to learn, advise and monitor Catholic health care in the country. With a population of over 1 million people, of which about 55 000 are Catholic, Swaziland has one diocese, Manzini, which is part of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference. Hope House in Manzini is one of the Caritas HIV/Aids support programmes which serves as a hospice facility, a home for HIV/Aids and tuberculosis patients, and those with related illnesses, as well as being a halfway house between hospital and home for those in need. Ms Morgan said Hope House staff are there to provide a quiet environment, palliative care, dietary advice, counselling and companionship, with a doctor visiting weekly. “A fee of R10 per day is charged but many cannot even pay that,” she said, adding that poverty is a major problem in the country. The diocese of Manzini has 15 parishes which serve a number of outstations. There are about 80 Catholic schools, 17 Catholic clinics and one Catholic hospital which is also the main hospital for the Lubombo region, one of the four regions which make up the kingdom of Swaziland.

Sr Elsa Joseph MSMHC and Cathca director Yvonne Morgan at Hope House in Manzini, Swaziland. Swaziland’s only Catholic hospital, Good Shepherd Hospital, which is close to the Mozambique border, currently serves a large rural population of 250 000 in one of the poorest parts of the country. A College of Nursing is attached to the hospital. Started in 1972, it trains nursing assistants at certificate level. The intake of students has increased from 20 in 2008 to 46 in 2011 with an annual 100% pass rate. Ms Morgan said the Catholic Nurses Guild in Swaziland has a very proud tradition of providing maternity, HIV/Aids treatment and hospice care at the various facilities around the country. She said Catholic health care in the country is faced with many challenges but is working hard to make a difference. “The Calabrini Ministries at St Phillips has risen to the Swaziland government’s challenge of not putting orphans and vulnerable children in an orphanage and

instead established a school hostel,” Ms Morgan said. “More than 120 children are accommodated, attending local schools during the day, and coming back to the hostel in the evening. The children go ‘home’ for school holidays—even if ‘home’ means being taken in by a staff member. In addition to the children in residence an additional 350 children who live in homesteads in the area also receive support,” said Ms Morgan. The organisation serves a population of 25 000 in a region where the Aids crisis is especially severe. While not all Catholic health organisations were visited, Ms Morgan described the trip as positive. Cathca works in all nine provinces of South Africa, and in Botswana and Swaziland, in 38 clinics, two hospitals, many old age homes, hospices, orphanages and many diocesan and parish projects combating HIV/Aids.

The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

Church reaches out at Olympics Continued from page 1 others, irrespective of their nationality or religious beliefs. Residents living close to Games’ venues across Britain have been asked to open up their home free of charge and to offer bed and breakfast to up to two family members or close friends of competing athletes for a minimum of eight nights. “With several hundred athletes wishing to use this programme, many Christians have put themselves forward to play their own part in offering Christian hospitality while also bringing a slice of the Games into their own homes,” Mr Parker said. Local churches have also been encouraged to open their doors to visitors by making Mass times well known and taking advantage of the BBC decision to waiver the need to obtain a special license to show live footage off its channels. “This is a great opportunity for churches and school with any type of hall to gather people to watch crucial events together such as the opening ceremony or the 100 metres final,” Mr Parker said. “The 2012 Games are the first time the Catholic Church has embarked upon such a long-term, secular, global, practical endeavour along with other Christians that has required praying, planning and cooperating together on a daily basis over a number of years,” he said. The Olympic Village has the largest chaplaincy area ever, containing five individual chaplaincy areas with the largest being designated to the Christian community. Mr van Velzen said chaplains are prepared to handle all levels of anxi-

Mr Frank van Velzen, assistant Catholic coordinator of the Games. ety the athletes might feel prior to their events, as well as any trauma experienced from not achieving goals set. Three Masses will be celebrated daily in the Olympic Village—two in English and one in a foreign language—as well as morning prayer, informal worship and a time for Bible study. The remaining four areas are allocated to the Muslim, Buddhist, Jewish and Hindu communities. Mr Parker said the committee’s work will not end with the closing ceremony of the Paralymics as plans are underway to see how lessons learnt can be passed on to Glasgow, Scotland, who will host the Commonwealth Games in 2014, as well as to Brazil as they prepare for the Football World Cup in 2014 and the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2016. England will also host the Rugby World Cup in 2015.

Community Notice Turffontein Catholic Church Holy Family parish is building a New Wall of Rembrance and would like to relocate the existing Memorial Plaques to the new wall and garden. Families of these deceased parishioners are asked to contact the Parish on 011 434 0206 asap. Fr Duncan Tsoke, Priest in Charge, 078 479 2781

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INTERNATIONAL

The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

Pope Benedict‘s pupils to discuss ecumenical dialogue at annual gathering BY CAROL GLATZ

OPE Benedict’s former doctoral students will meet in late August to discuss ecumenical relations involving Catholics, Lutherans and Anglicans, the Vatican press office confirmed. Each year the scholars choose a topic to discuss in-depth, and they invite speakers to make presenta-

tions at the closed-door meetings, usually held in Castel Gandolfo, a hilltop village where the pope spends his summer vacation. One of this year’s speakers will be German Cardinal Walter Kasper, president emeritus of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. The year’s meeting is expected

to touch on Harvesting the Fruits: Basic Aspects of Christian Faith in Ecumenical Dialogue, a book compiled by Cardinal Kasper and published in 2009. The book summarised the results of 40 years of official Catholic dialogues with the Anglican Communion, the Lutheran World Federation, the World

Methodist Council and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches. The three dozen students who did their doctoral dissertations in Germany under the direction of then-Fr Joseph Ratzinger have met regularly since the late 1970s in an annual gathering known as the “Ratzinger Schülerkreis” (Ratzinger student circle).

Previous meetings also had an ecumenical focus. The group discussed Christian mission from an ecumenical perspective in 2009, and two Protestant professors from Germany offered their reflections in 2008 on the historicity of the New Testament and on Christ’s own understanding of his passion and death.—CNS

What’s behind the name of first US Native-American saint? BY CHAZ MUTH

HEN Bl Kateri Tekakwitha is canonised on October 21, she will become the first member of a North American tribe to become a saint in the Catholic Church. She’ll join a host of saints with names that are often difficult for some people to pronounce. The name Kateri Tekakwitha holds great significance with regard to who she was as a person, a Catholic and as a Native American. And there are a few other legitimate ways of pronouncing it. Most North Americans pronounce her name “Kah-Terry,” while most Native Americans pro-

nounce it “Gah-Teh-Lee”. “Tekakwitha” is often mangled by non-Indians, said Franciscan Father Mark Steed, director of the national shrine of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha in Fonda, New York. Native Americans pronounce it “Teh-Kwah-Kwee-Ka.” Kateri is the Mohawk translation of Catherine, a name the Jesuits gave her at the time of her baptism. Tekakwitha has a more specific meaning to the Native Americans who raised her. Orphaned at age four during a smallpox epidemic, Kateri was left pockmarked and nearly blind by the disease. “She was legally blind and in the dark longhouse [where she was

raised] she was always reaching for things and knocking things down, or bumping into someone. So her uncle jokingly laughed, ‘Look at how she bumps into things’,” said Theresa Steele, a Canadian-born member of the Algonquin nation, who sits on the board of directors at the national shrine of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha in Fonda. So, the Mohawks gave her the name Tekakwitha. The English translation is “bumps into things”. “I just love her name,” said Kathleen McMahon, who attended a Mass at the Fonda shrine . “I love the way it sounds. I love what it means. I love how it ties her faith to her Native American heritage.”—CNS

A statue of Bl Kateri Tekakwitha at a shrine dedicated to her in Fonda, New York. The 17th-century Mohawk-Algonquin woman will become the first member of a North American tribe to be declared a saint when she is canonised on October 21. (Photo: Nancy Phelan Wiechec, CNS)

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HE father of the pope’s personal assistant, who was arrested in connection with the so-called “VatiLeaks” scandal, has described his son as an honest, faithful Catholic and said he hoped his son’s “sacrifice” would help the Church rid itself of corruption. Paolo Gabriele, the pope’s personal assistant, is a person of “absolute honesty...great generosity and moral integrity”, who is deeply devoted to the Church and the pope, Andrea Gabriele said in a letter sent to the Italian television station Tgcom 24. Paolo Gabriele was arrested on May 23 after confidential letters and documents addressed to the pope and others within the Vatican administration were allegedly found in his Vatican apartment. Similar documents had been published in Italian media over the past several months warning of corruption, abuse of power and a lack of financial transparency at the Vatican. Mr Gabriele was detained in a security cell on the Vatican grounds on charges of aggravated theft. The 46-year-old father of three is the only person

Paolo Gabriele, who has been accused of leaking private documents, a crime that under Vatican laws is punishable with a prison term of one to six years. (Photo: Paul Haring, CNS) charged so far after a nearly twomonth Vatican-led investigation. “As a father and a Christian, I hope the whole truth comes out to the beneficial advantage of the Church,” Andrea Gabriele wrote. His son “is personally paying the price of a situation that still isn’t easy to understand”, and won’t be until the motive has been made public, he said. “I hope above all that this tremendous sacrifice carries spiritual fruit” not only for those in a position of responsibility within

the Church, but for furthering the repeated desire of Pope Benedict for the “necessary cleaning of the Church”, Andrea Gabriele said. In his letter, the father sought to defend his son against the “distorted and often false and offensive” accusations being made in the media, which have accused the assistant of trying to harm the reputation of the Church and pope. The letter came after a Vatican prosecutor decided to keep Mr Gabriele detained beyond the usual 50 days according to Vatican law. The Vatican court has questioned a number of witnesses, but none of them has been held or charged with anything, Vatican spokesman Fr Federico Lombardi SJ told reporters. The investigating judge, Piero Antonio Bonnet, is expected to wrap up the formal questioning process, which began on June 5, and reach a conclusion by the end of July, the Vatican spokesman said, The judge can decide whether to dismiss the case or have Mr Gabriele stand in a Vatican trial that would be open to the public.—CNS

Hero’s welcome for returning priest BY DAVID AGREN

EXICAN priest Father Alejandro Solalinde got a hero’s welcome in Oaxaca state, when he returned to his shelter for undocumented Central Americans. The welcoming crew included a brass band, media and dignitaries, as well as migrants waving signs reading, “We missed you.” He returned with an escort from the Mexican attorney general’s office: four guards expected to provide security for the priest known for his willingness to confront corrupt officials and the organised criminal groups preying on migrants.

Fr Solalinde had left Mexico in May after receiving undisclosed threats; Church and human rights officials encouraged him to go. Such is the danger of working with the thousands of migrants transiting Mexico, where criminal groups—such as Los Zetas—kidnap them for ransom, and public officials are often complicit in their crimes. And such is his fame—as one of Mexico’s few figures to openly defy organised crime—that media made a big deal of his Mexico City press conference upon his return to the country earlier in the week “This is my passion, my reason for being,” Fr Solalinde said

upon returning to Oaxaca, adding that he never really wanted to leave the Brothers of the Road shelter that he had founded. “I’m a missionary, not because I’m a priest [but] because I’m baptised.” For five years, Fr Solalinde has struggled for the better treatment of migrants, mainly from a migrant shelter composed of concrete and cinderblock buildings adjacent to the railway lines on which undocumented Central Americans steal northbound rides. “We don’t deserve [this] Mexico that we have,” Fr Solalinde said. “It’s a rotten Mexico that this is compromising new generations.”—CNS

INTERNATIONAL

The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

Nuncio: International community Faith in religion declines in US A must unite to end Syria war MERICANS’ confidence in “church and organised religion” has been on the decline since 1973 and Catholics’ confidence in that institution remains lower than that of Protestants, according to the results of a new Gallup survey. Forty-six percent of Catholics express “a great deal or quite a lot of confidence” in the church and organised religion, compared to 56% of Protestants. Overall, 44% of Americans expressed that same level of confidence in church/organised religion. The percentage is slightly lower than what Gallup has found in recent years; in 2002, it was 45% and in 2007 it was 46%. “This follows a long-term decline in Americans’ confidence in religion since the 1970s,” Gallup said. In 1973, some 66% said they had a high level of confidence in religion. This latest poll also found Americans’ confidence in public

BY CINDY WOODEN

S violence continued to shake Syria, the Vatican nuncio in Damascus called on the international community to unite in efforts to restore peace. “The situation of the Christian community [in the capital Damascus] is the same as the situation for all Syrians. The Christians are not targeted, but they are under the same bombing and shelling the others face,” Archbishop Mario Zenari, the nuncio, told Catholic News Service in a telephone interview. “The situation compared to a month ago clearly is more tense,” he said. An uprising against President Bashar Assad’s government began in March 2011. Thousands of civilians have died in the fighting since then, and hundreds of thousands have been displaced. The United Nations refugee agency said that the number of Syrians seeking refuge outside the country has risen sharply in the past three months, with some 112 000 Syrian refugees now registered in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey. Archbishop Zenari said: “The international community must speak with one voice; otherwise the parties involved in the conflict won’t listen.” The nuncio said he was not lobbying for any specific international intervention, but “too much time has already passed. There are many ways to reach a consensus.” Some Christian leaders in Syria have questioned the pro-democracy efforts to oust Assad, pointing out how religious liberty and the Christian communities have been protected under his leadership. “The future is difficult to foresee,” the archbishop said. “Until now, there has been a good level of freedom of religion in Syria and good relations between Christians and Muslims. It could be difficult if that changed.” The nuncio said Christians, who make up about 8% of Syria’s population, “are respected. They are not fanatics. They play a role

Demonstrators hold Syrian opposition flags during a protest against Syria's President Bashar Assad at Kfr Suseh area in Damascus. The nuncio to Syria has called on the international community to unite in bringing the conflict to a close (Photo: Shaam News Network via Reuters) of building bridges and live in peace with Muslims and Druze in the villages.” While life is difficult for all Syrians, he said, the political tension and the fighting actually has drawn many communities closer together. “Christians and Muslims are helping one another,” Archbishop Zenari said.

eanwhile, Melkite Patriarch Gregoire III Laham of Damascus issued a statement saying that, thanks to their experience of peaceful coexistence, Syrians should be able “to resolve this dangerous crisis, helping one another through love and forgiveness.” “The greatest dangers in Syria today are anarchy, the lack of security and the massive influx of weapons from many places,” he said in the statement. The patriarch said there was

“interference from foreign elements—Arab and Western—who bring weapons, money and onesided information” into the country, inflaming passions on all sides and “weakening the voice of moderation”. The Melkite leader claimed a campaign was being waged against Christian church leaders in the country, painting them as siding with the government. “The Church always has refused sectarianism, avoided taking sides and highlighted ethical and Gospel values,” he said. “All the Catholic churches in Syria have raised their voices asking for reforms, freedom, democracy, an end to corruption, support for development and freedom of speech,” he said. “Today we ask for an end to the cycle of killing and destruction, especially against civilians of all faiths who are in difficulty and are the real victims.”—CNS

The

schools, banks and television news is at its “all-time lowest, perhaps reflecting a broader souring of Americans’ confidence in societal institutions in 2012”, Gallup said. Still, church and organised religion ranked fourth among the 16 institutions on the survey, it noted. Gallup said the difference between Catholics’ and Protestants’ confidence level in 2012 is “in line with an average 12-percentage-point difference” between the two groups’ outlook seen in its polling since 2002, “with Protestants consistently expressing higher confidence”. It said there were too few respondents of other religions to break out separate figures for confidence levels in each of those faiths, but taken as a single group, only 29% of those of all other faiths expressed “a great deal or quite a lot of confidence,” which is “far less than either Protestants or Catholics”.—CNS

Pope’s 2013 peace day theme will be based on John XXIII

HREATS to religious liberty and other basic rights, the global financial crisis and crises in politics and education signal a “worrying crisis of democracy”, said a note from the Vatican announcing Pope Benedict’s choice of a theme for World Peace Day 2013. In a message reflecting on the theme, “Blessed are the peacemakers”, the pope will offer “an ethical reflection” on measures that the global community is considering or should adopt in response to the various crises afflicting many countries around the world, said a Vatican communiqué. Announcing the theme for the January 1 peace day, the Vatican said Pope Benedict’s message— which usually is released in December—also would mark the 50th anniversary of Blessed John XXIII’s encyclical Pacem in Terris (“Peace on Earth”). Speaking about the encyclical in

April, Pope Benedict said that while the world has changed significantly in the past 50 years, “Pope John’s encyclical was and is a powerful summons to engage in that creative dialogue between the Church and the world, between believers and non-believers, which the Second Vatican Council set out to promote”. The late pope’s plea for peace, for respect for human dignity and freedom and, more basically, for respect for what is right and good, holds out “a message of hope to a world that is hungry for it, a message that can resonate with people of all beliefs and none, because its truth is accessible to all,” Pope Benedict aid. Announcing the 2013 peace day theme, the Vatican said Pope John’s encyclical affirmed the essential place of human dignity and human freedom in the effort to build a peaceful society, dedicated to promoting the common good.—CNS

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The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

LEADER PAGE LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Editor: Günther Simmermacher

The values of sports

OR two weeks, the 30th edition of the modern Summer Olympics in London will bring to the forefront the diversity of sports. Much of the focus will be on those sports whose broad popularity affords their highestlevel participants the luxury of practising them professionally: track and field, swimming, gymnastics, tennis, basketball and so on. But many other Olympians are amateurs, taking part at some personal cost because their disciplines do not attract sponsorship and other sources of revenue. Much as we may marvel at the exploits of such athletes as the sprinter Usain Bolt or swimmer Michael Phelps, and be inspired by the courage and determination of South Africa’s Oscar Pistorius, we must also admire those who make great personal sacrifices in time, money and training for the love of less fashionable sports. As South Africa experienced two years ago, when the country hosted the football World Cup, an international sporting event brings together people from all over the globe in what is mostly a spirit of good will. For Pope Benedict, events such as the Olympics are important not only for world records and medal tables, but especially as a way of giving the international community “a valid example of coexistence among people of different backgrounds in the respect of common dignity”, as he put it before the Olympic Games in China. Sports, he said, can represent “a pledge of brotherhood and peace among people”, by athletes, functionaries, spectators and hosting residents. However, some realities of modern sports organisation and competition run counter to realising the pope’s high hopes. The Olympic Games, like many high profile sports, are marked by a mercantile cynicism that is corroding sport’s moral foundation. Corporate sponsorship and broadcast rights have seized spectator sports from the people as an expression of leisure pursuits. Much of professional sport has become an entertainment industry in which peripheral matters tend to be

exaggerated for the benefit of “talking points”. This can distort perspectives, especially if fierce loyalties to athletes or clubs cloud good sense. English football has lately provided a pertinent example of this with the recent trial of Chelsea captain John Terry for the alleged racial abuse of an opponent, Anton Ferdinand. The complaint that led to the trial—in which Mr Terry was found not guilty—was laid by an off-duty policeman, not by Mr Ferdinand. Nonetheless, much angry abuse was directed at Mr Ferdinand by some supporters of Mr Terry and his club. When athletes, and other celebrities, are subjected to vindictive abuse, they are being treated as dehumanised commodities. This cannot be tolerable. Sports fans will have their favourites and are always keen to make their loyalties and rivalries known. It is acceptable that the competitive emotions such loyalties arouse find expression, within reason, during a contest. They must not, however, compromise good sense when the athletes leave the pitch or the court. The Olympic Games, with their festival atmosphere and abundance of athletes who embody the traditional “Olympian spirit”, can provide an antidote to the encroaching corruption of sporting values. The Christian churches in rapidly secularising Britain have done much to promote these sporting values. Through an inter-denominational initiative called “More Than Gold”, the churches have worked to tie the OIympics to social justice, hospitality and volunteerism as part of a wider pastoral care programme. Special events have been staged to underpin the true sporting values, such as respect, discipline, cooperation, camaraderie and pleasure. In an age when sporting endeavour is measured by celebrity, income and sponsorship, these values are worth fighting for. May the Olympic Games— the aggressive hype, branding and corporatisation notwithstanding—be a time when sports can be an influence for the common good.

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Plight of refugees in focus

HANK you for sharing the sad story of Vanneaux Kongolo (“How Home Affairs broke refugee in SA, July 4). This tragedy should bring more attention to the plight of many African migrants who have come to South Africa in search of a better life, in particular those with skills to benefit themselves, this country and the country they have left. Minister Nkosazana DlaminiZuma’s achievements at the Department of Home Affairs have been over-rated. Her administration has brought more misery to many migrants. Regional immigration bureaus, all aver the country, have become just reception windows that cannot even guarantee that your documents will be delivered to the head office in Pretoria. Hence everyone is told to keep a copy of the entire file before submission, for resubmission at request in case it gets lost. The waiting time for renewal of permits has soared from about ten working days to a minimum of six

Sacraments needed

AM replying for those who, having suffered a devastating divorce—and all divorces are devastating—find solace in re-marriage but choose not to have an annulment for the sake of their children. Their reasons could be that their children may wonder about the legitimacy of their own birth if the previous marriage they were born into is annulled. Your news article “Vatican censures nun over sexual ethics book” (June 13) reports that the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith has warned that Sr Margaret Farley’s 2006 book Just Love: A Framework for Christian Sexual Ethics contains “erroneous propositions”. I have not read the book yet, but the title alone expresses a heart of a merciful person, looking for solutions for a sin-weary world. Yes, we are all bothered by sin! But I feel it is time for someone to speak of love and mercy again, and listen to the heartbeat of the one we claim to follow—our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus said: “Go learn the meaning of the words ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice’” (Mt 9:13). Who of us can set ourselves up above the principles that Jesus taught? Did Jesus ever proclaim life-long punishment for anyone who repented, or do we see Jesus’ instant forgiveness of the thief on the cross as a once-off magnanimous gesture, not applicable to the rest of us? Perhaps I have had stars in my

months for many applicants. Since April 2012 rumours have been circulating among the refugees, claiming that the government was planning to issue South African ID books to refugees with valid permits. Matatiele, a small town at the border of Eastern Cape, KwaZuluNatal and Lesotho, has become the new Mecca to which refugees from all over South Africa are heading, desperate to get a document that will free them from the bondage of a refugee permit. Sub-zero temperatures at the foot of the Drakensberg mountains do not deter them from lining up before dawn, sometimes as early as midnight, and wait for the Home Affairs teams that arrive in the morning, delivering their services from 4x4 vehicles and portable computers. After a few scuffles among refugees, the lucky ones to be interviewed on a given day are finger-printed and receive a small bar-coded card bearing the name of the recipient and the emblem of eyes while reading the Scriptures and all about the saints and books by saintly people, but suddenly when confronted with that single statement concerning divorced and re-married Catholics, “cannot receive Communion as long as this situation persists” I was jolted upright! It was not the intention of the parties in that first disastrous marriage that it should fail, but they became the unfortunate casualties of life with deep-seated hurtful consequences. Those individuals and their children have already suffered unbearable pain. Why is it that the Church shoots her wounded? The hurting, bleeding, bewildered and broken individuals have as much need of the holy sacraments as others—in fact more so, because of their woundedness. They are the very ones who need to be loved and held and nurtured at the foot of the cross of Jesus. “Press your wounds to the wounds of Jesus,” one dear priest said. “Allow his pain to heal yours.” What a beautiful picture of the love of God. This marks the triumph of the cross over sin. Every other offence, as far as I can see, is forgiven and even the rapist, the paedophile, the murderer may be reconciled by confession and come back to the Communion rail the next day—but not the divorced and re-marrieds. Is it not apparent that the reason for the popularity of Sr Farley’s book Just Love is the hunger of mankind for “just love” after all? Forgiveness, restoration, healing, hope, and love: that is what I

South Africa. No explanations given as to the value and purpose of the card! Congolese, Somalis, Pakistanis and other nationalities, all leave Matatiele with only a dream for a better life after everything they have endured: sleeping in the cold, having lost two or three days of work and bearing the cost of the trip. What a surprise, then, to hear on Radio SAFM on July 9 the directorgeneral of Home Affairs say that the entire exercise in Matatiele was aimed only at surveying refugees living near the border with Lesotho. Why has the Department of Home Affairs waited for more than two months to give this clarification, and only when questioned about it? Those officials doing the survey in Matatiele surely knew all along that they were dealing with refugees coming from all over the country. This Matatiele episode also serves to highlight how desperate refugees and migrants to South Africa are, and how the Department of Home Affairs cares less about what happens to them as individuals. Name withheld feel our world needs the most today. Thank you Sr Margaret Farley, I will look for your book and try, like you, to “just love”! Heather Withers, Johannesburg

Carol nostalgia

Y mother attended St Rose’s convent school many years ago. She mentioned that each year the pupils attended the St Patricks’s Day concert Eisteddfod and that the boys from Marist Brothers often sang the song “Cherry Ripe” as their contribution.. Is this song ever sung at schools any more? I have only heard it sung once and that was over the radio years ago. In December, at shopping centres, and over the radio and television, Christmas carols such as “Once In Royal David City”, “What Child Is This?”, “O Little Town Of Bethlehem”, “It came upon the Midnight Clear”, and others, are seldom if ever aired. Mostly only “Mary’s Boy Child” and “Silent Night” are played. More Christmas carols and a greater variety of carols would be enjoyed by many people. Jane Thomson, Johannesburg Opinions expressed in The Southern Cross, especially in Letters to the Editor, do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor or staff of the newspaper, or of the Catholic hierarchy. The letters page in particular is a forum in which readers may exchange opinions on matters of debate. Letters must not be understood to necessarily reflect the teachings, disciplines or policies of the Church accurately.

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PERSPECTIVES

Religious orders after Vatican II Anthony Egan SJ R ELIGIOUS life, it is said, is in crisis. And, some say, it’s Vatican II that caused all the trouble! Let’s analyse this statement, as dispassionately as possible, given that your author is himself a member of a religious order, the Jesuits, that has seen its membership drop from 35 000 in 1965 to about 19 500 today. Before Vatican II we saw a proliferation of orders of priests, brothers and sisters, all dressed in their habits, living in large communities, going about their prayer and work like well-oiled machines. Leaving aside the fact that the end of World War II saw a dramatic spike of entries to religious life, creating an unusually (some might say unnaturally) high number of professed men and women by 1962, we might say that all was well—give or take the occasional oddball or spiritually abusive superior. After Vatican II we see religious out of habits, moving into smaller communities (and some living alone), doing a variety of works uncharacteristic of what they’d done before. We also see a swathe of departures from religious life—religious who felt unable to cope with the reforms the Council brought, or feeling that there had not been enough reform, or simply because they felt what they were doing was irrelevant. Today the only orders that seem to be growing are “traditional” ones—full habits, monastic lifestyles, strict rules of common life. Did the Council create a crisis in religious life? Is the Council to blame? Yes and no. The central theme of Vatican II was renewal of the Church, including the renewal of religious life. Perfectae Caritatis (1965), the Decree on the Renewal of Religious Life, made this explicit: for religious orders to be truly a witness to the world they had to renew themselves. The Council did not abolish religious life in any form or shape; indeed it emphasised that the proper living out of the evangelical counsels—the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience that all religious make, and in the case of monastic men and women, stability (remaining in one’s community) —were central to what is was to be a religious and crucial witness value to the Church and the world. What changed at Vatican II was the call to religious to renew themselves by returning to their original charism. This

A Church of Hope and Joy

Nuns look on as Pope Benedict leads the Angelus at the Vatican. (Photo: Max Rossi, Reuters/CNS) meant returning to those elements in each order or congregation, monastery or convent, that made their lives distinctive, modelled on the vision of their founders. That Vatican II had to make this call is indicative of how far religious life had changed. Members of orders founded to be missionaries had become resident parish priests, teaching orders created to educate the poor were teaching the rich, and some contemplatives had become parish priests. Among women religious this had been particularly acute: Mary Ward had founded the Loreto Sisters in 1609 to be apostolic missionaries in lay dress among women, but had been forced by the Church to become habited, virtually enclosed semi-contemplatives running girls’ schools.

o their credit, the religious men and women of the Church not only accepted but rapidly started to implement the call of the Council to renew religious life, come what may. Though it was often painful they looked at the vision of their founders and foundresses and implemented the needed changes. Teaching brothers closed wealthy schools and moved to educating the poor. Contemplative orders reviewed their lifestyles, often opting for greater simplicity in line with original charisms. Other orders, noting that their original reasons for existence no longer existed, tried to remake themselves according to what they discerned their founders’ original intentions might have been had they lived in modern times. The result was often painful and sometimes exciting. “Chaos, utter chaos!” was how one religious formed in

‘He ascended into heaven...’

HRIST’S ascension into heaven was a historical event: “When he had said these things, while they looked on, he was raised up. And a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they were beholding him going up to heaven, behold two men stood by them in white garments. They said: ‘You men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up to heaven? This Jesus who is taken up from you into heaven will come as you have seen Him going up to heaven’” (Acts 1:9-11). The expression “at the right hand of the Father” is not to be taken literally but symbolically. Christ as God is said to sit at the right hand of the Father because he is equal with the Father. As man, he is seated at the Father’s “right hand” as being closest to God in the possession of the highest possible perfection for a created nature. The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us this is what the devil craved when he said, “I will ascend into heaven. I will exalt my throne above the stars…I will be like the most high” (Isaiah 14:13-14). But Christ alone rose to that height. This is what he meant when he applied to himself the messianic prophecy of David: “The Lord said to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand’”(Psalm 109:1). David said this a thousand years before the Christ’s birth; announcing the Lord’s enthronement at the Father’s right hand. No other psalm is so frequently quoted by the Gospel writers. When the disciples struggled with the concept of Jesus’ death, he told them he was going back to the Father (John 14:12). And, while on trial before the Sanhedrin, Jesus announced to the high priest that presently he would be “sitting at the right hand of Power” (Matthew 26:64). Perhaps we can say his “ascension” was one of the tests of Christ’s prophetic credibility.

The ascension of Christ is an integral part of the proposition that Christ is the “Lord” who has the right to exercise “all authority” (Matthew 28:18; Ephesians 1:20-23). On Pentecost, after arguing for the resurrection and ascension, Peter contended: “Let all the house of Israel therefore know assuredly, that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified” (Acts 2:36). Without the ascension there could never have been the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. And these supernatural events are what authenticated the establishment of the Church of Christ as something divinely orchestrated and ordained. The Christian regime, as Peter says, is from God, not man. The ascension of Christ into heaven clearly reveals that, contrary to Jewish expectations (and even that of the misguided disciples), the Lord’s mission to

the late 1960s and early 1970s once remarked to me. As religious orders underwent renewal, many members felt that all the security they once had was pulled from under them. Some left, unable to cope with change; others responded to the fluidity of their lives with such enthusiasm that they literally renewed themselves out of religious life. The growing importance of lay women in professions and public life since the 1960s offered, too, opportunities to women religious they had never considered: where religious life had once been the only space available for “independent women”, other roles beckoned where they felt they could better serve God as women. Those who remained, those who helped to reshape religious life, developed a new kind of spirituality: one that stressed serenity and closeness to God in the midst of turbulence. It was a practice that kept them focused on God amidst the confusion of daily life, a sense of calm at the centre of the hurricane of change that swept, and arguably continues to sweep, through the Church and World. Today, fifty years after Vatican II, the tensions thrown up by the renewal of religious life remain. Faced with the priest shortage, some missionary orders have— contrary to their charism—been more or less dragooned into being “diocesan” priests. Apostolic sisters’ congregations who see their mission as one of accompaniment of contemporary women are frequently libelled as feminists and unorthodox for their views. Such hostility is I believe misplaced, for these women—and men—are moving in areas the mainstream Church often cannot reach. It is not surprising however that the more “traditional” orders attract vocations today. There is a safety in certainty, in regularity, in the life of contemplation particularly for those hurt by the cruelty and cynicism of the contemporary world. And, certainly, those who join “renewed” orders need the kind of tough spirituality of their ’70s forebears to survive in difficult times.

Mphuthumi Ntabeni

Reflection on the Apostles Creed – Pt 7

this planet was not to overthrow Rome and establish an worldly, political administration reminiscent of David. The ascension of Christ also demonstrated the manner of Christ’s final return. The disciples “beheld” Jesus vanishing into the clouds (using the verb theaomai to indicate this is not meant in a figurative sense); they literally saw Christ ascend. Additionally, Luke emphasises that the Lord will return “in like manner,” that is in a visible fashion. The combination of these terms clearly indicates that Christ’s second coming will be a literal coming. This eliminates the spurious notion that Christ’s representative “coming” (via the Roman armies— Matthew 22:7), in the overthrow of Jerusalem (Matthew 24:30), was his second coming (cf. Heb. 9:28). And yet the advocates of “realised eschatology” contend otherwise. Luke’s language also eliminates the theory that the Lord’s next “coming” will be an invisible “rapture-coming”, as dispensationalists would have us believe. The ascension of Jesus provides us with a supreme confidence that we have a heavenly High Priest who, having been “crowned with glory and honour” (Hebrews 1:13; 2:7,9), ever lives to make intercession for us (Hebrews 7:25; cf. 1 John 2:1-2). Jesus entered heaven as one who goes in advance for us (Hebrews 7:20). By his return to heaven, Christ “dedicated for us” a new and living way that is not earthly in nature (Hebrews 10:20). That is, he opened a door into our sharing of the divine nature.

The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

Chris Chatteris SJ

Pray with the Pope

Dignity for criminals General Intention: That prisoners may be treated with justice and respect for their human dignity.

HESE days you have to book well in advance to get on a tour of Robben Island. This famous spot on the map has become a place of touristic pilgrimage. Its bleak, windswept landscape and grim, low buildings are now a symbol of how a penal system can be designed to strip a person of human dignity. The fact that the prisoners, led by Nelson Mandela, refused to allow this to happen to them, is perhaps what fascinates and inspires the visitors and continues to draw them in such numbers. One can now also visit the Gallows Museum in Pretoria Central, the place where until 1989 around 4 300 prisoners were hanged by the old regime, 130 of them for political activism. The gallows has been restored and opened to the public lest we forget our history and in order to help those bereaved by execution to heal the wounds of their traumatic memories. It will be interesting to see how many South Africans will visit this ghastly memorial and how we will respond to it. The experience of the struggle has undoubtedly coloured South Africa’s prison policies. The change of the name from the “Prison Service” to “‘Correctional Services” illustrates the aspiration to do better than the punitive past. Lack of resources, however, often results in our prisoners being treated with injustice and a lack of human dignity, with violence, rape and other abuses. When we pray with the Holy Father for this intention, we should remember our own prisons, the prisoners themselves and their relatives.

SA’s missionaries Missionary Intention: That young people, called to follow Christ, may be willing to proclaim and bear witness to the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

HAVE sometimes suggested to young South African religious in training that they should not necessarily expect to work all their lives in their home country. This remark would often elicit surprise because a common assumption is that since the South African Church is still being established, it is a question of “all (local) hands on deck”. However, the history of young churches suggests that a missionary dimension is important for their vitality. In fact, my prediction has been proved correct: a number of South African religious whom I taught have found themselves “missioned” to other parts of Africa or indeed to another continent. The mission to other parts of Africa can be quite a challenge for South Africans. Generally speaking it is less comfortable than at home. North of the Limpopo one may have to put up with malaria, power cuts, unstable politics and shortages of material goods. This is perhaps why we South Africans sometimes talk about “going to Africa”, as if this country was not really part of the same continent. Some South Africans are far more familiar with Europe than neighbouring Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Lesotho. Leaving hearth and home for foreign parts is rarely easy for anyone from any country. Young apostles, both religious and lay, who do this for the sake of the Gospel, rely on our prayerful support. Let us remember them this month.

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COMMUNITY

The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

The blessing of palm crosses at Trafalgar Park, Woodstock, Cape Town which was attended by three Anglican parishes, St Mark’s, St Philip’s and St Bartholomew’s as well as Holy Cross Catholic parish, District Six. The event was organised by John Oliver, vicar Youth from Queenstown diocese attended an education for life of St Mark’s. workshop at Pallotti farm, coordinated by Sr Veliwa Nkuzo. (From left) Sr Victoria Sibisi and Fr Solly Mpela and Sr Veliwa Nkuzo (right).

Fr Ivanhoe Allies, parish priest of St John the Baptist church in Atlantis, Cape Town rides a donkey on Palm Sunday to commemorate Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem.

St Charles Lwange parish, Ngwelezane township Eshowe, celebrated a thanksgiving Mass conducted by (left to right) Frs Mjoli, Kheswa, Ngcobo and Khumalo.

The catechists of Assumption parish in Floors, Kimberley attended a retreat given by Sr Angela Sutton OP.

A weekend of meetings on the New Evangelisation were held at St Thomas More church in Vryheid. The gatherings were organised by Petrus Mkize of the Eshowe diocese and led by Fr Barney McAleer.

Three Uitenhage parishes, St Anthony’s, St Joseph’s and Marymount, donated money for Fr Max Salsone’s 70th birthday to take a trip to the United States. Fr Salsone has been a priest for 47 years.

The parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Peace parish in Margate had their annual retreat at Coolock House in Port Shepstone led by Fr Desmond Nair.

Manfred and Danielle Engelbrecht of Mater Dei parish in Parow Valley on their wedding day at St Mary’s Cathedral, Cape Town.

12 new members joined the Sacred Heart sodality at St Andrew’s parish Mpophomeni, Durban. With them are parish priest Fr Jude Fernando TOR and Deacon Seraficus Nzimande TOR.

36 candidates were confirmed at St Matthew’s parish in Bonteheuwel, Cape Town by Archbishop Stephen Brislin. With the group (from left) Johanna Stuwerman, Deacon Andrew Siljeur, Fr Gavin Butler and Martha Lambert.

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SPORTS

The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

What it takes to be an international athlete Just what does it take to represent one's country in international sports? Three international athletes told CLAIRE MATHIESON how they take on the very best in the world.

THLETES share a common goal: achieving a personal best. For some, that dream is found on the international stages of the sporting world. But how do you get there? It takes more than just a dream. One has to nurture natural talent, train endless hours, become highly disciplined, and perhaps also embrace the spiritual side. World championships, the Olympics Games, the Commonwealth Games—the sheer magnitude of these events is inspirational as the world’s best athletes gather to compete, bringing with them not only personal hopes and dreams, but also those of fans and fellow countrymen.

Swimming’s Golden Girl hopes for more medals

ailed as a “national treasure” and “golden girl” by President Robert Mugabe, swimming sensation Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe has won seven out of the eight Olympic medals the country has ever won. Ms Coventry, 28, said her grooming started with her parents. “They taught me to swim when I was 18 months old. I would always be the first person in the pool and the last to leave. It was always the first thing I wanted to do when I got back from school in the afternoons. We were lucky enough to have a pool in our garden so this helped drive my passion.” But there is far more than goes into a world class sportsman. Ms Coventry believes her natural competitive streak has a lot to do with the accolades she has achieved in her career. She believes in taking responsibility for her talents. “Just because God gave me this talent doesn’t mean I’ve never had to work hard to get to where I am today. I’ve managed this gift and turned it into something great,” she said. But the ability to keep pushing is enhanced by her support system. “The ability for me to continue swimming when most of my peers stopped can be attributed to my friends and family. I cannot ask for a better support network,” she told The Southern Cross. The former learner at a Catholic school, Dominican Convent School in Harare, became the first Zimbabwean to reach the semi-finals at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney and was named Zimbabwe’s Sports Woman of the Year. She was still in high school at the time. She went on to win a medal of each metal in the 2004 Olympics Brazil’s Maria Antonelli dives for the ball during a beach volleyball match in Quebec City, Canada. The Olympics competitor credits her Salesian education with life lessons and for leading her to the sport. “I owe a lot to the Salesians, and now I count on all their support,” the 28year-old said. (Photo: Mathieu Belanger, Reuters/CNS)

Swimming great Kirsty Coventry celebrates breaking another world record. The product of Dominican Convent School in Harare hopes to add to her seven-medal tally at the Olympics in London. in Athens and three silver and one gold in the 2008 event in Beijing. Ms Coventry’s accolades would also be remembered by the many children named after her events and awards, cementing her as a Zimbabwean hero. Ms Coventry attributes the discipline and importance ascribed to her work, studies and sport to her schooling career at Dominican Convent. “Without my education I would never have been able to obtain a scholarship. This scholarship allowed me to train with top athletes and compete against the best in the world. Without education and my schooling career, coupled with my parents love and guidance, I would never have had the discipline required to persevere in my training,” she said. Today, Ms Coventry trains all over the world, but says home will always be Zimbabwe. “I have always tried to raise my country’s flag high. I am and always will be a Zimbabwean. I am and always will be honoured and proud to be representing my country.” The swimmer has broken world records in three disciplines: the 200m backstroke (breaking a 16year-old record; she has broken the record two more times and is the current holder), 200m shortcourse individual medley and 400m shortcourse individual medley. So far, Ms Coventry has three gold medals to her name. She hopes to increase the tally when she competes in 200m individual medley and 200m backstroke at her fourth Olympics in London.

The hockey striker, with stick and faith

indy Botha is a national women’s hockey player and captain of the KwaZulu-Natal provincial team. An all-rounder at her Catholic school, she played netball and competed in athletics and swimming. But when she was selected as a member of the u21 national hockey team to travel to the 2005 World Cup in Chile she committed herself to that sport. At the time she was a Grade 11 learner at Our Lady of Fatima School in Durban North. She went on to earn an honours degree in psychology. She believes sporting success comes down to hard work. “You definitely need talent to start you off on a good foot. However due to

Cindy Botha (left) celebrates a goal for South Africa’s hockey side with teammate Kelly Madsen. The parishioner of Durban North says that whatever happens, God has a plan for her. the different coaches I have had— the good and even the bad—I have learnt so much and grown so much not only as an athlete but as a person.” Ms Botha also attributes her success to her faith, family and friends. “My mom has always been a very significant person in my life and she has been there for me through everything. She is such a strong lady yet so soft. As I stumble upon barriers in life I look to my mom for advice and guidance, and I am so appreciative for this.” The 26-year-old Our Lady of Fatima parishioner said representing the country is an absolute honour. “There are many times when I don’t want to go to that early gym session, or run the sprint set, and more often than not I have to go to church in my hockey kit and rush off to a match on Sundays. But standing in my green and gold singing my national anthem and playing for my country makes it all worthwhile.” Ms Botha says quite simply that “professional sport is tough. You need to love what you do, even in the hard times, as it’s this love that carries you through”. Faith comes into play for her. “No matter what happens, I know that it is in God’s hands and he has a plan for me either way,” said the national striker, who once scored two goals in two minutes for the national side when playing against South Korea.

From lawns to the seminary

ommonwealth Games gold medalist Shaun Addinall said his sport, lawn bowls, is in his blood and will always be there, despite retiring from the

international arena to study for the priesthood. Lawn bowls, like hockey, is an amateur sport in South Africa. Players need to take time off from their professional working lives to train in order to compete against the world’s best. “For bowlers, training involves repetition. Our coach wanted us to bowl one million times before competing. We had to do this whenever we had a free moment,” said Mr Addinall, admitting that he fell short of the target due to time constraints. The bowler also trained with the national squad on weekends and played as many matches as possible in preparation for his event, men’s bowls pairs. But physical training is just one part of the preparation. “We spent time with sports psychologists. At this level of competition it becomes a mind game,” he said. The 2010 Commonwealth Games in which he competed were held in Delhi, India—a host city with challenges which, he said, “could throw the very best

Shaun Addinall has won medals for South Africa in lawn bowling, and is now studying for the priesthood. off their game”. “It’s hot, it’s sticky and dirty— it’s very easy to lose focus when you’ve been taken out of your comfort zone.” In addition, the added pressure of competing at such a high level can also be a challenge for some athletes. “It’s such an awesome experience—being in the moment. But you start to doubt yourself and question why you are here.” Despite the pressure, Mr Addinall told The Southern Cross, those doubts disappear while playing and you are able to do what you were born to do. “You just focus on the game and all other distractions disappear.” After 24 years of competitive bowls and many of the sport’s highest accolades, today Mr Addinall can be found at St Francis Xavier’s Seminary in Cape Town where he is preparing to enter the priesthood. “I’m at peace with what I’ve achieved and now I want to achieve other things—spiritual things.”

The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31, 2012

LITURGY

Why the Lord’s Prayer should be sung at Mass The Lord’s Prayer should be sung at Mass. Fr MALCOLM McLAREN explains why, and offers more tips on music in the liturgy.

T may surprise many people that the Church, in its documents on music, places a high priority on the singing of the Lord’s Prayer. Like other parts of the Mass, it merits singing because it is through music that words are clothed and prayer is intensified: just as one might do by bolding letters in text, or choosing a more elaborate font over a simple one. This was the very context out of which (plain) chant developed some 1 500 years ago. Gregorian chant, as it is commonly known now, became the simple yet effective way to pray the liturgical words in song rather than recite them. It remains a musical style developed uniquely for the Church’s liturgy. Despite the practice of singing the Lord’s Prayer during the Mass being so varied between parishes, it is also considered more important than singing the Kyrie or Agnus Dei. A possible reason is that it is the one point in the Mass where the words of the prayer are sung or recited together by the whole congregation. (The only Ordinary part of the Mass which may be sung by the choir alone, without the congregation, is the Gloria). It is not a concert piece for the choir and time of meditation for others: everyone is invited to pray it together. I can therefore appreciate why many parishes recite the Lord’s Prayer rather than sing it. Pastorally, it seeks to ensure that a greater proportion of the community will actually pray it

together when recited. But if this refrains or repetitions, then it is argument is applied to the Lord’s difficult to justify using a musical Prayer, then it should also apply setting which has these qualities. In concluding the Ordinary to the remaining parts of the M a s s , a n d w e s h o u l d a v o i d parts of the Mass, a brief word should be made concerning the singing altogether. Therefore consider an alterna- Creed. Only included on Sundays and tive: the power and wisdom of the Mass as ritual, often described solemnities, it is the most difficult as boring or uninspiring, is that sung part of the Ordinary of the when we are unable to pray or Mass to introduce. This may be attributed to its find ourselves struglength, the scarcity of gling for words, the settings, and the fact familiar pattern and ‘We needn't that the congregation words of the liturgy must be able to sing at somehow keep us sing with least part of the Creed united with the comthemselves. Unless a munity. operatic sung Creed is well The same must be true with song: when voice, perfect established, I would recommend that it it comes to singing, only be sung (chantit does not mean we pitch or ed) during a Mass must sing with operwhere the entire lituratic voice, perfect timing, but gy is to be sung. pitch, or sublime After my two artitiming, but that we unite our own cles on liturgical unite our own voice, music appeared in The our own contrite and voices’ Southern Cross last sincere offering, with year, many people the familiar voice of involved with Church music asked the community. But, we must make the effort for advice on how or where to (Rom 15:6)! And if people can start. My recommendation is to stumble their way through an begin with this Sunday’s Mass! Read the initial article, the one entrance or Communion hymn, then it is not only possible, but published two weeks ago and this more fitting, for them to sing the one, and then compare the principles in them to the music that Lord’s Prayer. you used during the Mass. Ask yourself questions such as: lthough this discussion has focused on the Lord’s Prayer, D i d w e f o c u s o u r m u s i c o n the intention is for the celebrant unnecessary parts such as a Recesto intone his introduction and sional hymn or hymn during the s i n g w h a t i s k n o w n a s t h e sign of peace? Did we sing the Embolism, and for the entire con- Alleluia, Great Amen or Sanctus? If you are doing this exercise gregation to sing the Our Father together with other choirs from and its doxology. T h i s i s a c l e a r w e a k n e s s o f your parish ask yourselves, are we many popular settings not writ- doing the same things at all Massten with the Mass in mind, which es? If you did make some changes have excluded provision for these based on the initial article, now is other parts. Sadly too, the same a good time to review them: were bad practice which affected the they helpful? For those celebratsinging of the Gloria is true for ing in English, have you introcertain settings of the Our Father duced a setting of the new transfrequently encountered. If the lation of the Gloria? original prayer did not consist of Once you have done this, dis-

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ST. KIZITO CHILDREN’S PROGRAMME

St. Kizito Children’s Programme (SKCP) is a community-based response to the needs of orphans and vulnerable children. SKCP was established through the Good Hope Development Fund in 2004 in response to the Church’s call to reach out to those in need. Operating as a movement within the Archdiocese of Cape Town, SKCP empowers volunteers from the target communities to respond to the needs of orphans and vulnerable children (OVCs) living in their areas. The SKCP volunteers belong to Parish Groups that are established at Parishes in target communities. Through the St. Kizito Movement, the physical, intellectual, emotional and psycho-social needs of OVCs are met in an holistic way. Parish Groups provide children and families with a variety of essential services, while the SKCP office provides the groups with comprehensive training and on-going support. In order to continue its work, SKCP requires on-going support from generous donors. Funds are needed to cover costs such as volunteer training and support, emergency relief, school uniforms and children’s excursions. Grants and donations of any size are always appreciated. SKCP is also grateful to receive donations of toys, clothes and blankets that can be distributed to needy children and families. If you would like to find out more about St. Kizito Children’s Programme, or if you would like to make a donation, please contact Shirley Dunn on (021) 782 2792. Email info@stkizito.org.za. Donations can also be deposited into our bank account: Bank: ABSA; Branch: Claremont, 632005; Account Name: Good Hope Development Fund; Account Number: 4059820320

Congregants sing the Lord’s Prayer. Fr Malcolm McLaren writes that singing the Our Father is considered more important than singing the Kyrie or Agnus Dei. (Photo: Sean Gallagher, CNS)

cuss it with your parish priest and parish liturgy commission. This is a good place to see what your musical resources are as a parish, and what might be reasonable for the parish to achieve. Not only in so far as it relates to music, the parish liturgy commission is the place to talk about parish liturgy in general, to learn about liturgy, and where you can work together: priest, deacon, choirs and the community as a parish. Do so in conjunction with the Pastoral Introduction to the Order of Mass (PIOM) approved for use in the region of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference. (The principles which I have outlined in my articles are a presentation of those found in the liturgical documents of the Church including the PIOM.)

his year I concelebrated the Chrism Mass in St Peter’s basilica in Rome. Amidst the beauty of that Mass, I was struck by one very powerful thing: its simplicity. Yes, it was possible for beauty and simplicity to be found together in the same celebration! As a final word, perhaps it is simplicity that might guide those involved with music (and the liturgy in general). Something very simple can be the most profound. Do not try to do too much, or do things too quickly, or make

things too complicated. Music is there to clothe the Mass: it does not hide or take away from the words and prayers of the Mass. It should never be a distraction, good or bad. Music is there to help the congregation, so that during the liturgy in that time and place, they may experience in a powerful way something of the heavenly liturgy: the praise of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. And rather than popularity, emotions, likes and dislikes, the principles that I have provided, in this article and the previous one, try to give a benchmark: not of success, but of how music might shape our liturgies to allow that encounter with God. Of particular interest to Englishspeaking parishes is the formation of an English-language Committee working through the SACBC’s Liturgy Department. Its aim is to facilitate workshops and information sessions, in conjunction with each diocese, to assist these parishes in the conference region. The committee will also work together with a technical group that has been tasked with gathering and evaluating settings of music for the Ordinary parts of the Mass. Its aim is to compile a group of settings which are sustainable and suitable for parishes. n See www.scross.co.za/liturgy for previous articles by Fr McLaren on music in the liturgy.

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The Southern Cross, July 25 to July 31 , 2012

Deacon John William Perez

EACON John William Perez of Bridgetown, Cape Town passed away on June 26 after a short illness. He was 84 years old. He was born on May 7, 1928 to John William and Antoinette Perez—the youngest of 12 children. He married Lillian Pentolfe in 1952 and had six children. At the time of his death he had 14 grandchildren and seven great- grandchildren. In 1973, during the struggle against apartheid, he opened his home to the students of the South African Students Organisation (SASO). He was proud to have met Steve Biko and to have hosted other stalwarts of the struggle in his home. Unfortunately he suffered harassment and intimidation at the hands of the security police. When two of his daughters were exiled he was denied a passport for many years as punishment for his involvement. He worked for a specialist paper producing company for 35 years. After his retirement and after most of his children had left home, he studied to become a deacon. On February 1, 1987 he was ordained by Archbishop Stephen Naidoo in the presence of his lifelong friend Cardinal Owen McCann, and celebrated his 25th anniversary as a deacon in February this year. Deacon Perez served at Stellenbosch and Bridgetown. He dedicated his life to the service of humanity. Becoming a deacon was the culmination of a lifetime

Family Reflections JULY FAMILY THEME: GRANDPARENTS

July 29, Sunday 17. Christ who feeds us. St Martha. There are many Martha’s in the Church and in our families: good women who cook and bake, clean and sew. We all agree those are important and necessary things. And yet... “Jesus came to a village and a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. She had a sister called Mary, who sat down at the feet of the Lord and listened to him speaking. Now Martha who was distracted with all the serving said, “Lord do you not care that my sister is leaving me to do the serving all by myself? Please tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered, “Martha, Martha, you worry and fret about so many things and yet few are needed, indeed only one. It is Mary who has chosen the better part, it is not to be taken from her.” Luke 10:38-42. Would this Opening Prayer of the Mass be an affirmation and consolation for the workers? Father, your Son honoured St Martha by coming to her home as a guest. By her prayers may we serve Christ in our brothers and sisters and be welcomed by you into heaven, our true home.

Southern CrossWord solutions SOLUTIONS TO 508. ACROSS: 1 Simeon, 4 Grants, 9 Better or worse, 10 Elegant, 11 Troop, 12 Halve, 14 Brisk, 18 Nadir, 19 Negated, 21 Pronouncement, 22 Simper, 23 Unused. DOWN: 1 Sobbed, 2 Matter and form, 3 Omega, 5 Rewater, 6 Nervous stress, 7 Steeps, 8 Hosts, 13 Verbose, 15 Snipes, 16 Inane, 17 Edited, 20 Green.

Word of the Week

Latria: Adoration Application: The veneration due to God alone for his supreme excellence and to show people’s complete submission to him. Absolute latria is given only to God, as the Trinity, or one of the Divine Persons, Christ as God and as man, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the Holy Eucharist.

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CLASSIFIEDS

Births • First Communion • Confirmation • Engagement/Marriage • Wedding anniversary • Ordination jubilee • Congratulations • Deaths • In memoriam • Thanks • Prayers • Accommodation • Holiday Accommodation • Personal • Services • Employment • Property • Others Please include payment (R1,15 a word) with small advertisements for promptest publication.

BIRTHDAY

ARENDSE—Jacoba. 30 July—For by me your days will be multiplied, and your years of life increased” (Proverbs 9:11). Happy 79th birthday Mom and God’s richest blessings. With much love from your sons, daughters, sons and daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great- grandchildren and extended family

dedicated to social justice in the communities where he lived and worked. As a member of the Franciscan Order, the Vincent de Paul Society and St John Ambulance Brigade, Deacon Perez worked tirelessly to address the needs of the poor and all those in need. As a regular visitor to the sick and dying, he befriended many individuals and families who can attest to his unselfish devotion and love. Nothing could dampen Deacon Perez’s faith. He never missed Sunday Mass in the 84 years of his life. He was a stickler for doing things by the book and ensured that he followed the precepts of the Church in every way he could. More importantly, he lived the life that he preached. When his wife Lillian was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, his love, devotion and care for her was a source of strength to his family. He taught himself to cook and clean and was always at her side. He showed what true grit is as he battled with her declining condition for ten years. In his latter years he was saddened by revelations of corruption and increased poverty and disunity in the post-apartheid era. He regretted that his aging body did not allow him to do all the things he would like to have been involved in. He retired from active service in 2010. His funeral mass was concelebrated by Archbishop Stephen Brislin and priests and deacons of the archdiocese of Cape Town. Carmel Chetty

Liturgical Calendar Year B Weekdays Year 2

Sunday, July 29, 17th Sunday 2 Kings 4:42-44, Psalm 145:10-11, 15-18, Ephesians 4:1-6, John 6:1-15 Monday, July 30, feria Jeremiah 13:1-11, Deuteronomy 32:18-21, Matthew 13:31-35 Tuesday, July 31, St Ignatius of Loyola Jeremiah 14:17-22, Psalm 79:8-9, 11, 13, Matthew 13:36-43 Wednesday, August 1, St Alphonsus Liguori Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21, Psalm 59:2-4, 10-11, 1718, Matthew 13:44-46 Thursday, August 2, Our Lady of the Angels of Portiuncula Sirach 24:1-4, 16, 22-24, Psalm 34:5, 7, 9-10, 1819, Galatians 4:3-7, Luke 1:26-33 Friday, August 3, Votive Mass of the Sacred Heart Jeremiah 26:1-9, Psalm 69:5, 8-10, 14, Matthew 13:54-58 Saturday, August 4, St John Mary Vianney Jeremiah 26:11-16, 24, Psalm 69:15-16, 30-31, 33-34, Matthew 14:1-12 Sunday, August 5, 18th Sunday Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15, Psalm 78:3-4, 23-25, 54, Ephesians 4:17, 20-24, John 6:24-35

IN MEMORIAM

DU PLESSIS—Dion 31 May 1975—27 July, 2007 After five long years you are still always in our thoughts and prayers. Lovingly remembered and deeply missed. Mom, Dad, Paige, Neil and Charlotte. IN LOVING memory of our precious Edwardo H Gou-

veia, 30/07/2010. Gone too soon you left us, two long years since you went away. Thoughts are full and hearts do weigh, without you here to share life’s way. Sad was the parting, no one can tell so sudden on earth the sorrow fell, the blow was hard, the shock severe, to part with you whom we love so dear, as you were, you will always be. Treasured forever in our memory. Rest in peace my love, until we meet again. Your ever-loving wife Maria, children Angelo, Eddie Joanne, Justene, Emily, Jordan, Sheldon, Joshua and all the family. CERFONTYNE—In Loving Memory Of Our Dear Son And Brother—Michael who passed away 26 July 2010. We will always love and keep you in our hearts. Mom, Dad, Heidi & Carla

PERSONAL

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using it. (Medical facts stated in its pamphlet) CATHOLIC lady, 57 years old of Zulu origin is looking for a trustworthy Catholic male partner or companion. Text or call 072 497 3128. CRUCIFIXES FOR AFRICA: Made in four complete sizes. Phone/Fax: 046 604 0401 for details and brochure. FOR INFORMATION about St Padre Pio. Post donation and request to P O Box 5211, Secunda, 2302, RSA. HOUSE-SITTER/AUPAIR: Based at Benoni Parish/will travel/with references. Ph Therèse 076 206 0627. NOTHING is politically right if it is morally wrong. Abortion is evil. Value life!

PRAYERS

HOLY ST JUDE, apostle and martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke you, special patron in time of need. To you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg you to come to my assistance. Help me now in my urgent need and grant my petitions. In return I promise to make your name known and publish this prayer. Amen. PMD. REMEMBER O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession and was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, we fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins our Mother. To you do we come, before you we stand sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not our petitions, but in your mercy, hear and answer us. Amen. Joy/MBG/LL.

ACCOMMODATION

CAPE TOWN: Cape Peninsula Beautiful homes to buy or rent. Maggi-Mae 082 892 4502, AIDA Cape Lifestyle Homes, 021 782 9263 maggimae@aida capelifestyle.co.za

HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION

LONDON: Protea House: Single per night R300, twin R480. Self-catering, busses and underground nearby. Phone Peter 0044 208 7484834. BALLITO: Up-market pent-

REMEMBERING OUR DEAD

house on beach, self-catering. 084 790 6562. BETTY'S BAY: (Western Cape) Holiday home sleeps six, three bathrooms, close to beach, R800/night. 021 794 4293 marialouise@ mweb.co.za FISH HOEK: Self-catering accommodation, sleeps 4. Secure parking. Tel: 021 785 1247. GORDON’S BAY: Beautiful en-suite rooms available at reasonable rates. Magnificent views, breakfast on request. Tel: 082 774 7140. bzhive@telkomsa.net KNYSNA: Self-catering accommodation for 2 in Old Belvidere with wonderful Lagoon views. 044 387 1052. KZN SOUTH COAST: Honeywood: Luxury chalets & The Cellar boutique restaurant. 7 x 4-sleeper luxury chalets. Quiet urban forest retreat opposite Sea Park Catholic Church. Ideal for retreats & holidays www.honeywoodsa.co.za honeywood@honey woodsa.co.za Tel 039 695 1036 Fax 086 585 0746. MARIANELLA: Guest House, Simon’s Town: “Come experience the peace and beauty of God with us.” Fully equipped with amazing sea views. Secure parking, ideal for rest and relaxation. Special rates for pensioners and clergy. Tel: Malcolm Salida 082 784 5675 or mjsalida@ mweb.co.za SEDGEFIELD: Beautiful self-catering garden flat sleeps four, two bedrooms, open-plan lounge, kitchen, fully equipped. 5min walk to lagoon. Contact 082 900 6282. STRAND: Beachfront flat to let. Stunning views, fully equipped. Garage, one bedroom, sleeps 3-4. R450 p/night for 2 people-low season. Phone Brenda 082 822 0607

RETREATS

PLETTENBERG BAY: Sat Chit Anand Interfaith Spiritual Retreat Centre. Make space in your life for Spirit. Enjoy a peaceful holiday with optional meditation, Mass, theology classes, yoga. Interfaith chapel, library, and healing centre. Self-catering cottages. Priests stay free. See www.satchitanand.co. za for more info, Phone 044 533 0453 or email satchitanand@global.co.za

“It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from their sins” (II Macc XII,46) Holy Mass will be celebrated on the first Sunday of each month in the All Souls’ chapel, Maitland, Cape Town at 2:30pm for all souls in purgatory and for all those buried in the Woltemade cemetery.

For further information, please contact St Jude Society, Box 22230, Fish Hoek, 7975 Telephone (021) 552-3850

The Southern Cross is a member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations of South Africa. Printed by Paarl Coldset (Pty) Ltd, 10 Freedom Way, Milnerton. Published by the proprietors, The Catholic Newspaper & Publishing Co Ltd, at the company’s registered office, 10 Tuin Plein, Cape Town, 8001.

The Southern Cross is published independently by the Catholic Newspaper & Publishing Company Ltd. Address: PO Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000. Tel: (021) 465 5007 Fax: (021) 465 3850 www.scross.co.za Editor: Günther Simmermacher (editor@scross.co.za), Business Manager: Pamela Davids (admin@scross.co.za), Advisory Editor: Michael Shackleton, News Editor: Claire Mathieson (c.mathieson@scross.co.za), Editorial: Claire Allen (c.allen@scross.co.za), Advertising: Elizabeth Hutton (advertising@scross.co.za), Subscriptions: Avril Hanslo (subscriptions@scross.co.za), Dispatch: Joan King (dispatch@scross.co.za), Accounts: Desirée Chanquin (accounts@scross.co.za). Directors: C Moerdyk (Chairman), C Brooke, P Davids, S Duval, E Jackson, B Jordan, M Lack (UK), Sr H Makoro CPS, M Salida, G Simmermacher, Archbishop B Tlhagale OMI, Z Tom

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18th Sunday: August 5 Readings: Exodus 16: 2-4, 12-15, Psalm 78: 3-4, 23-25, 54, Ephesians 4: 17, 20-24, John 6: 24-35

T is not at all uncommon that you and I find ourselves complaining about God, and God’s failure to do anything for us. When we catch ourselves at it, let us at least have the grace to blush. That is the story of our first reading for next Sunday; the story so far is that the Israelites have been liberated by God from the oppressive power of Egypt, in response to their frequent prayers, but now they are seeing some of the difficulties about liberation, and project their dissatisfaction onto Moses and Aaron. Now they wish that they were dead, and (somewhat illogically) accuse the two brothers of attempted genocide. God responds, not, as you or I might have done, with rage and lightning, but with the promise of food, meat in the evening, and bread in the morning. The meat is the flesh of quails, and the bread is manna, which, significantly perhaps, is thought to be the Hebrew for “what’s this, then?” And, later on, of course, they are going to complain to Moses about that gift also! We should listen to Moses’ explanation: “This is the bread that the Lord has given to

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Be grateful for the food of life Nicholas King SJ

Sunday Reflections

you to eat”, and be grateful. The psalm for next Sunday, in a slightly random selection of verses, reflects on this episode: “We have heard and we know, and our ancestors proclaimed to us,” and they recall, in the context of their complaints and disobedience, the episode of the manna, how “he ordered the heavens above, and the opened the doorposts of heaven”, so that they “ate the bread of angels”, and “he brought them to his holy mountain, this mount that his right hand had gained”. That is to be the secret of our gratitude, which is the only way to find a mature and uncomplaining approach to life. For Christians, this ancient story has a new twist to it; not only must we remember what God has done, and preserve a decent

attitude of thanksgiving, but we must also model ourselves on Jesus, “no longer in inanity”. Instead we have to “listen to him and be taught in him, as is the truth in Jesus, and put aside that previous way of life, the old person who was getting corrupted in accordance with deceptive desires”. Instead, what we are invited to do is to “put on the new person, the one created in God’s image, in righteousness and in the holiness of truth”. That should stop us complaining! The gospel continues from the feeding of the 5 000, in John’s version, which means that next Sunday we start the long Bread of Life discourse which we shall be following for a few weeks to come. The crowds go chasing after Jesus by boat, and ask the all-important question, “Rabbi, when did you come here?”, though they have no way of knowing how important the question is. Jesus responds in a manner that they find somewhat obscure, but makes it clear that they have not really got the point: “You are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate from the loaves

Beware of the voices within I T is not easy to discern the voice of truth among the many voices that beckon us. Indeed it is difficult even to discern when we are genuinely sincere: Who am I really? What is in my genuine best-interest? Among the many voices I hear which voice will ultimately bring me life? Which is the voice of God in my life? Countless voices assail us constantly from without: billboards, television, newspapers, magazines, the Internet, ideologies, religion, the arts, pop culture, fashion, hype, the lure of celebrity, among others. But it is usually not difficult for us to recognise that we are in fact being assailed by these voices for they make little pretence. Each has an angle: they want our money, our vote, our support, our sympathy, our allegiance, our attention, our participation, our admiration, or something from us. Subtlety is not their virtue and we are generally not so naïve as to think they have our best interests at heart; though in some cases, like religion, the arts and fashion, their best expressions are for our benefit. But we are not so easily taken in by outside voices. Where we are more naïve is with voices that beckon and make truth claims from within. Because these voices are inside us, it is natural to believe that they have our best interests at heart, that they speak for us, that they are the voice of truth. What are these voices that assail us from within, just as do the many voices from without? Here are a few salient examples.

Conrad

Fr Ron Rolheiser OMI

Final Reflection

• The voice of personal grandiosity, ego, self-interest, and laziness. We are not altruistic by nature. Thanks to our natural instincts, we come into this world instinctually prideful, self-centred, narcissistic, and concerned first of all with our own well-being, pleasure, and comfort. As we grow into maturity we learn that the voice of self-interest is not exactly the voice that calls us to life; but, this side of eternity, that voice never dies and remains inside us always as a voice that is ready to undermine all other voices. • The voice of wound and rage. Nobody comes to adulthood whole. It is not a question of whether we are wounded but only a question of the what and the where of our wounds. And the voice of wound is speaking always, subtly and not so subtly, inside us, calling us to feel distrustful, slighted, offended, angry, and vengeful. Nobody is immune. This voice is forever telling us that paranoia, not metanoia, is what leads us to life. • The voice of emotional and psychological depression. Depression easily disguises itself as depth, as altruism, as holiness, and hence it can fool us by having us believe that this heaviness of spirit is life-giving when,

in fact, it is draining our bodies and souls of oxygen and life. The voice of depression is very often confused with the voice of religion because it appears to honour asceticism, other-worldliness, and the cross when, in fact, it doesn’t. • The voice of sentimentality and piety. Sentimentality and piety are very easily mistaken for genuine empathy and genuine devotion. But there is a not-so-subtle difference: in genuine empathy and genuine devotion, the tears we cry are for others, in sentimentality and piety the tears we shed are for ourselves. • The voice of obsession, of inner “angels” and “demons”. There is a long-standing argument as to what ultimately most influences our behaviour: nature or nurture? Genetics or environment? A number of thinkers, including the late US psychologist James Hillman, would suggest that what most influences our behaviour is neither nature nor nurture, but certain “daimons” within, namely, various “angels” and “demons” inside that assail us, trigger obsessions, and rob us of freedom. Anyone who has ever fallen helplessly and hopelessly in love will recognise exactly what a “demon” or “angel” inside can do. There are few more paralysing forces in our lives and there are few voices that can so deeply make us believe that a certain person (and only this person) can bring us life. If you are a romantic, this voice will be both the biggest source of energy and the biggest source of grief in your life; and, as bitter experience has shown, it isn’t always the voice of life. • The voice of archetype, genetics, ethnicity, and gender. Blood is thicker than water and it is also a very powerful voice inside us that is never fully silent. We do not come into this world as unused photographic paper onto which nothing has yet been imprinted. Rather we enter this life with a powerful DNA, inside both our bodies and souls, within which many things are already indelibly stamped. Our DNA, physical and psychological, remains always a powerful voice inside us and, like the voice of personal grandiosity, it doesn’t always have our ultimate best interests at heart. There are no easy answers apposite to dealing with these voices inside us, but, to quote Dr Hillman, a symptom suffers most when it doesn’t know where it belongs!

and were sated.” The point that they are missing (like their ancestors in the desert) is that it is not all about having “perishable food”, but about the “food that remains into eternal life, which the Son of Man is going to give you”. They do not understand a word of this, and ask, rather aggressively, about how to “work the works of God”. The answer is, of course “believe in the one whom God has sent”. They then, more aggressively yet, ask about a sign “that we may see and believe” (and you might be pardoned for thinking that feeding 5 000 people might count as just such a sign!). Then they talk about the sign their ancestors had in the desert, the manna, forgetting that those ancestors had complained before and after. Jesus then takes the discourse to an entirely new level, by introducing the idea of “the bread from heaven, the true one”, and then revealing, to their baffled astonishment, that “I am the bread of life: the one who comes to me will not be hungry, and the one who believes in me will not be thirsty.” We shall spend the next month thinking about the meaning of this.

Southern Crossword #508

ACROSS 1. Simon takes in a note for the man who saw the infant Jesus (6) 4. Admits as true (6) 9. Extremes of marriage vows (6,2,5) 10. A gentle form of stylish (7) 11. Group of scouts (5) 12. Break in two (5) 14. Energetic to climb riskily inside (5) 18. Lowest point if muddied drain (5) 19. Counteracted Agent Ed (7) 21. Declaration spoken clearly? (13) 22. Sneer with a grin (6) 23. Not applied before (6)

DOWN 1. Broke down in tears (6) 2. The stuff and shape of the sacrament (6,3,4) 3. Last of the Greek characters (5) 5. Irrigate once more (7) 6. The tension that gives you anxiety (7,6) 7. Soaks in liquid (6) 8. Crowds for the communion wafers (5) 13. Observe, long-winded (7) 15. Shoots from hiding place: the birds (6) 16. Silly (5) 17. Amended the sacred text (6) 20. Ecological Church vestment colour (5)

Solutions on page 11

CHURCH CHUCKLE

MIDDLE-aged woman has a heart attack and is taken to the hospital. While on the operating table she has a near-death experience. During that experience she sees God and asks if this is it. God says no and explains that she has another 30 years to live. Upon her recovery she decides to stay in the hospital and have a face lift, liposuction, breast augmentation and a tummy tuck. She even has someone come in and change her hair colour. She figures since she’s got another 30 years she might as well make the most of it. She walks out of the hospital after the last operation and is killed by an ambulance speeding by. She arrives in front of God and complains: “I thought you said I had another 30 years.” God replies: “I didn’t recognise you!” Send us your favourite Catholic joke, preferably clean and brief, to The Southern Cross, Church Chuckle, PO Box 2372, Cape Town, 8000.