The Record Magazine Issue #08 (July 2017)

Official magazine for the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth

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I S S U E 8 J U LY 2 017

Hosted by the Centre for Faith Enrichment and the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry

Indigenous Spirituality When: Saturday, 12 August 2.00pm - 4.30pm Cost: One-off workshop, free Location: Newman Siena Centre, Doubleview A workshop to introduce participants to Indigenous Spirituality.

Noongar Country & Catholic Ecological Connection When: Saturday, 23 September

10.00am - 4.00pm

Cost: $50.00 waged/ $25 concession Location: Whadjuk Noongar Country A trip exploring Whadjuk Noongar Country and exploring the interconnectedness and the Pope’s Encyclical Ladauto Si. BYO lunch and snacks.

Your Parish Building Relationships with the Aboriginal Community When: Saturday, 21 October

10.00am - 4.00pm

Cost: Donation Location: Newman Siena Centre (Clune Lecture Theatre) An opportunity to explore practical ways you and your parish can engage with the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry and the Aboriginal community. The possibilities of an individual parish reconciliation plan and other tools will be explored. Morning and Afternoon Tea provided. BYO lunch.

Visit www.cfe.org.au/courses-and-events for more information.

For enquiries, contact us at cfe@perthcatholic.org.au.

Featured this month

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Bonni Ingram Contemporary Aboriginal Visual Artist

“Blessed are you who are

weeping now, you shall laugh” — Luke 6:21 FROM THE EDITOR Jamie O’Brien

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Dr Robert Isaacs AM My life, my faith, my culture

“The Church herself in Australia will not be fully the Church that Jesus wants her to be until you have made your contribution to her life and until that contribution

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has been joyfully received by others.” These were the words of Saint (Pope) John Paul II during his momentous address to the Aboriginal people of Australia in 1986.

So, in this Issue of The Record Magazine, we take a look at our Australian Aboriginal culture, as well as the lives and contributions of it’s inspirational people and leaders.

We take you on a journey to Perth’s own Clontarf Aboriginal College, as well as to a meeting with Aboriginal Catholic Ministry’s newest recruit, Aggie Pigram.

We showcase the work of Carnarvon artist Bonnie Ingram, whose front cover image is entitled Bush Medicine Spes, as well as Magda Lee, from the Kimberley region and her image entitled, My Birth Story at Old Mission.

Magda Lee My Birth Story at Old Mission

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FROM THE ARCHDIOCESE From Archbishop Timothy Costelloe From Bishop Donald Sproxton

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IN THIS EDITION New Geraldton Bishop Aggie Pigram MercyCare Notre Dame Clontarf Aboriginal College Book Review

Remember, The Record Magazine is a magazine for

Movie Review

the people and I hope you will enjoy taking the time

Ecclesial Art

to engage with us. Please feel free to share your

Colouring Page

thoughts and ideas via editor@therecord.com.au, or

Recipe: Damper

by contacting us on 08 9220 5900.

Activity Page

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As many readers of The Record Magazine and The eRecord will know, this year marks the Centenary of the apparitions of Mary, the Mother of the Lord, to the children at Fatima in Portugal.

While the Church leaves us free to form our own opinions as to the veracity of these apparitions, the Church has nevertheless officially proclaimed Fatima to be “worthy of belief”.

THE CALL TO PEACE:

the heart of the message of Our Lady of Fatima

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+ Archbishop Tim Costelloe ARCHBISHOP OF PERTH

n the last one hundred years, many popes have spoken about Fatima and recent popes have all visited this shrine in Portugal. Saint John Paul II was well known for his devotion to Our Lady of Fatima, attributing his survival of the attempt on his life on 13 May 1981 to her motherly intervention. In recent days, Pope Francis too has visited the shrine at Fatima. He did so to mark the centenary of the apparitions and to canonise the two youngest children of Fatima, brother and sister Francisco and Jacinta. These two young children have now become the youngest non-martyrs ever to be canonised in the history of the Church.

The canonisation of Francisco and Jacinta reminds us all that holiness is not restricted to those who live long lives or perform great deeds. Francisco and Jacinta were not canonised because they saw Our Lady. They were canonised because of the extraordinary courage and fidelity they showed, often in the face of severe opposition, to what they believed the Lord was asking of them through the presence of Mary in their young lives. We should never underestimate the ability of young people to understand the mysteries of God and to respond to his grace at work within them. After all it was Jesus himself who encouraged us to be like little children for, as he said, “it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs” (Luke 18:16).

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ARCHBISHOP’S WORD

The story of Fatima is well known to many Catholics. Mary appeared to Jacinta and Francisco and their older cousin Lucia on six occasions, encouraging them to pray the rosary, to undertake penance or self-denial for the conversion of sinners and to pray for the conversion of Russia and of the world. In 1917, the Russian Revolution was on the horizon and the First World War, the “war to end all wars”, would soon come to an end. In little more than 20 years, the Second World War, even more terrible in destruction, would begin, once again drenching the world in blood.

our hearts and thus contribute to the ongoing cycle of neglect,

Risen Lord, was his promise to give us his gift of peace.

living as children of God.

The Lord is always faithful to his promises and he never takes back his love for us, however it remains for us to either open our minds and hearts to receive his gift of peace or to close

Let us take to our hearts the encouragement of Mary, the

indifference, hatred and violence in our world. The apparitions of Mary to the children of Fatima one hundred years ago, remind us of the urgency of both working for and praying for peace.

Such prayer, sincerely offered, will enlarge our own hearts and spirits and enable us to become, in the depths of our own being, people of peace. We will then, as Saint Francis of Assisi, Pope Francis’s namesake once prayed, become instruments

of peace. As this happens in At the heart of the message of our lives and, through us, in our While we must do everything Our Lady at Fatima was the call families and in our communities, to pray for peace. This call remains we can as individuals, as we will be numbered among an urgent priority for us in our those who according to Jesus communities, and as nations to own time. As we look around truly are the children of God the world, we see communities work for peace, it is even more (Matthew 5:9). and nations lacerated by war, by important that we pray for peace. In Saint John's Gospel, Mary is violence and by hatred. It seems remembered as the woman who that the horrors of war know said to the stewards at Cana, no bounds. While we must do “You do whatever he tells you” (John 2:5). This has always everything we can as individuals, as communities, and as been the role of Mary in the Church: to point us to Jesus, nations to work for peace, it is even more important that we to lead us to him, and to help us to listen to his word and pray for peace. We have just celebrated the mystery of the put it into practice (cf Luke 11:28). Jesus has asked us to be Lord's resurrection and his ascension into heaven, followed by peacemakers. He has promised us that in this way we will be the sending of his Holy Spirit. Central to the message of the

woman who spoke to the three children at Fatima one hundred years ago - You do whatever he, Jesus, tells you.

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BISHOP’S WORD

Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton spent some three weeks in Israel during April visiting the Tantur Ecumenical Institute, during which time he wrote to The Record to talk about his experience.

Arriving in Israel just before the start of Holy Week, Bishop Sproxton recalled day-by-day his thoughts as he followed the footsteps of Christ’s passion, death and resurrection.

In this short summary of a moving and detailed four-part first-hand account, The Record Magazine takes a look at some of the highlights of Bishop Sproxton’s journey.

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oly Week began with the Divine Liturgy at the Syrian Catholic Church with Bishop Boulos, the Patriarchal Exarch for Jerusalem.

Bishop Don and Father Richard de Lord celebrating mass at the Church of

On Palm Sunday we joined the procession of the palms from Bethany to the Church of St Anne just inside the Lion Gate. Around 5000 pilgrims and local Christians walked together in solidarity and faith.

the Holy Sepulchre in the Catholic Chapel, Jerusalem, on Easter Monday.

The first Station began at the Monastery of the Flagellation and we finished at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Being so early, we avoided the enormous crowds that were expected this year because of the coinciding Orthodox and Catholic Easter celebrations.

On Holy Thursday, we celebrated the Mass of the Last Supper in the late afternoon in the Church of Ecce Homo. This place is significant as it is believed that here is the Pavement, the Lithostrotos, where Jesus was made to sit on the Seat of Judgement and was condemned to be crucified by Pilate.

Nevertheless, it was deeply moving to pray the Way of the Cross as the city was waking.

We returned to Ecce Homo in the afternoon and celebrated the Good Friday Liturgy with a big number of other English speaking pilgrims and residents of Jerusalem in the crypt over the Pavement.

Very early on Good Friday, we left for the Old City to walk the ‘Via Dolorosa’. We had prepared for this a few days previously by our small groups composing the text for each Station of the Cross.

The celebration was simple and reverent, and touched each of us, despite our tiredness.

Our Easter Celebrations began with the journey to Beit Jala for the reception of the Holy Fire from the Holy Sepulchre.

Earlier in the afternoon, the Greek Orthodox Patriarch entered the Tomb of Jesus and came out with a large flaming torch. The crowd in the Church rushed towards him to light their torches. It did not matter who you were, everyone rushed forward.

Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton, far left, and former Auxiliary Bishop of Brisbane, Emeritus Bishop Brian Finnegan, fourth from left, with Tantur Ecumenical Institute Rector, Father Russ McDougall, and the local Syriac Catholic Bishop and Parish Priest.

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This tradition is very ancient. The Greeks see the new flames as the miracle that signals the resurrection of Jesus. They become very excited and you can so easily be caught up in the joy and enthusiasm of the moment.

BISHOP DON SPROX TON

Following the footsteps of Christ’s passion, death and resurrection PHOTOS Gemma Thomson A light from the Holy Fire is sent to the great Churches in the Orthodox tradition, even as far away as Russia.

Of course the Churches in Jerusalem and throughout Israel wait in the afternoon for the fire to arrive.

In Beit Jala we joined the expectant crowd. The excitement grew as the bands of bagpipers and drummers approached with the priest who carried the great lantern. The flame was taken into the Church to the sanctuary and the doors closed while the flame was prepared to be distributed to the faithful. The scene that had occurred in the Holy Sepulchre was repeated: the crowds of people rushed to receive the light of the Risen Christ. There was excitement, joy and shouts of acclamation.

We left to prepare for the Easter Vigil at Ecce Homo. Admittedly, our Service of the Fire was quite reserved by comparison to the Holy

Fire ceremony, yet moving, as we blessed the New Fire on the terrace overlooking the Old City, the Dome of the Rock in the distance and the Sepulchre Church which is so near.

Early on Easter Tuesday, we began our journey to Galilee. The Evening Prayer of Easter Sunday had included the words of the Risen Christ to the disciples: Go to Galilee where you will see me. It was with this in mind that we set off.

Our last Sunday saw us travel to Tel Aviv to celebrate Mass with Fr David Neuhaus SJ at the pastoral centre for migrant workers and asylum seekers.

And so we arrived at our final day.

We set out for Emmaus. There we

We descended to the Chapel for the vigil of readings and the Baptismal Renewal. We were united once more in the Eucharist, celebrated for the first time since Holy Thursday.

found the roofless crusader Church

Following some coffee and refreshments provided by the Sisters, we set out for the Holy Sepulchre.

We knew it would be crowded, but that did not matter. Where better to be on the great night of the Resurrection feast!

were walking away from Jerusalem,

So we joined the great line of pilgrims from all parts of the world as they moved steadily to the tomb. The crowd was noisy. But this was so because of the excitement in the hearts of each pilgrim to be in the place where God raised Jesus to the new life of the Resurrection.

The Tantur group with Perth Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton (sixth from left) at the Palm Sunday Procession at the Mount of Olives.

built next to the ruins of a Byzantine church.

We celebrated Mass with the Gospel account of the two disciples who but were joined by the Risen Lord.

A beautiful icon is there of the disciples seated at the table at the moment they recognise Jesus as he breaks the bread. It was such a special moment for us too. We were to begin our journey back to Australia having walked along the roads that Jesus walked. We feel so privileged to have walked with Him this Easter in Jerusalem.�

Read the full story at www.therecord.com.au

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Badimia women of the Yamatji nation, Bonni Ingram, speaks candidly about her artwork, Bush Medicine Spes, featured on the front cover of this issue of The Record Magazine.

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as life imitating art or art imitating life?

“It has a lot of meaning through it, it is

The canvas and brief for this sacred painting lay untouched for more than a year.

pain. I feel people’s pain – I felt the pain,”

Then Bonni Ingram had a near death experience and her world was shaken up.

paints with water from the River Jordan,

Somehow in the midst of this, Bonni took to her paint brushes again.

together with the water of the Gascoyne

“It is a very important artwork; for me it was a sacred piece. It had to be done right, more importantly, it had to be done in an appropriate way.”

“This painting is also about my healing. The

This artwork by Bonni is layered in meaning and appearance with death and the birth of a baby boy being the centre of both the artwork story and Bonni’s life during the period it was created.

The back ground is a deep black, symbolising the break between humankind and God when the light of heaven was shut on the occasion of original sin.

But flecked over the black background are streaks of bright yellow, symbolising the hay of the manger where the newborn Jesus lay as He entered the world bringing back hope.

Then, as He journeyed through life, the streaks of yellow intensify as the eye travels from the base of the canvas to the top, where there is a solid explosion of yellow symbolising the Resurrection.

sad. It made me think of Jesus Christ, His says Bonni.

Bonni had the opportunity to mix her specifically where Jesus was baptised, River, where she lives.

The front cover artwork of The Record Magazine by Bonni Ingram, shown here with Geraldton BishopElect Fr Michael Morrissey, is layered in meaning and appearance with death and the birth of a baby boy being the centre of both the artwork story and Bonni’s life during the period it was created. Photo: Supplied

birth of my first grandson Elias that brought me back hope because I was waiting to see him while I was painting this.”

Being a contemporary Aboriginal visual artist WORDS Sabrina Dowling Giudici Bonni Ingram is a proud Badimia woman of the Yamatji nation. Born in Mullewa, Bonni is the eleventh of 12 children born to her parents who were from the Mt

Here the doors of Heaven are shown to be flung open and the unimaginable light of eternal life shines through.

Magnet – Payne’s Find area. Bonni was

The artwork is completely layered with the contemporary interpretation by Bonni of the Yamatji motif of the bush medicine leaf (the Scaevola spiniscens), symbolising the healing brought to the world by Jesus Christ.

from the age of two to 17 when she was

Here, the gentle wind of the breath of God’s love has blown the leaves into the shape of the Holy Cross, the act of sacrifice and pain acknowledged by the running red paint at the foot of the Cross.

her and her family and people. For Bonni,

forcibly removed from her family and taken to the Sister Kate Home where she lived returned to her family. Scarred physically and emotionally from her experience, Bonni has constantly strived to protect her sons and other Aboriginal children from the cultural abuse and misunderstanding that afflicted this mission is ongoing as she finds cultural awareness significantly under-developed in the major institutions that govern our Western Australian society.

NEWS

Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB welcomed the news of the appointment of Fr Michael Morrissey as the new Bishop of Geraldton at the end of May.

Pope Francis appoints Fr Michael Morrissey NINTH BISHOP OF GER A LDTON

WORDS Jamie O’Brien BISHOP-ELECT MORRISSEY will take the reins of the Diocese this month 28 June, where he will be ordained in what is set to be a monumental celebration at Nagle Catholic College by Archbishop Costelloe, together with retiring Bishop of Geraldton Justin Bianchini, Emeritus Archbishop of Perth and former Bishop of Geraldton, Barry Hickey as well as numerous fellow Bishops from across Australia.

Geraldton priest Fr Michael Morrissey (left) has been appointed as the new Bishop of Geraldton, shaking hands with retiring Bishop of Geraldton, Justin Bianchini. Photo: Supplied

“Bishop-Elect Morrissey will bring to this new role a deep knowledge of and love for the diocese and its people,” Archbishop Costelloe said.

He was ordained a priest on 31 January 1981 in St Francis Xavier

In an exclusive interview with The Record Magazine, Bishop-

Cathedral, Geraldton. From 1981 to 1984, he worked as Assistant

Elect Morrissey said he is thankful to the very faithful and

Priest in the Parishes of Bluff Point and Port Hedland, serving as

committed community from where he has come.

Administrator in the Parishes of Bluff Point, Port Hedland and

Bishop-Elect Morrissey spoke about his upbringing on

South Hedland between 1984 and 1985.

Noongall sheep station in Yalgoo, 217km east of Geraldton,

The 64-year old Bishop-Elect was appointed Parish Priest of

noting that as a young boy, he had the freedom to run around

Karratha in 1985 until 1992 when he became Administrator of

in bare feet on the station.

the Cathedral in Geraldton until 2007.

Bishop-Elect Morrissey is the first Bishop of Geraldton who

He held this role again from April 2014 until today. Bishop-Elect

was born, raised, ordained and has ministered in the Diocese

Morrissey was appointed Chancellor of the Diocese in 1994 for

and said his appointment recognises all the small communities

nine years and his mission was renewed in 2006 until the present

scattered throughout the diocese.

day. In 2007, he was also nominated Vicar General of Geraldton.

“Following in Bishop Justin Bianchini’s footsteps is very

He has been a long standing member of the College of Consultors,

special, having worked closely with him for the past 25 years,”

from 1991 to present, and the Presbyteral Council, 1983-1998,

Bishop-Elect Morrissey said.

2003-present, which he chaired between 1994 and 1996 and

Born at St John of God Hospital Geraldton on 9 September

between 2004 and 2006.

1952, Bishop-Elect Morrissey was educated at Aquinas

In 2015, Bishop-Elect Morrissey was appointed as Parish Priest

College, Perth, continuing his studies at St Charles Seminary

Representative to the Board of the Catholic Education Commission

in Perth and later at St Francis Xavier Seminary, Adelaide.

of Western Australia.

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My vision, my life, DR ROBERT my faith, my culture: ISAACS AM WORDS Jamie O’Brien

which included a three month rotation living on a reservation in Colorado and New Mexico with the Navaho Indians that Robert says he gained a greater understanding about indigenous affairs, broken families, governance and politics.

“I discovered how the concepts of self-determination could ensure that indigenous programs had a long lasting effect and how important it was to involve indigenous people in developing and running programs for themselves.”

An accomplished highly respected Aboriginal leader from the Bibbulmun Whadjuk Noongar language group of the south west, Lynwood Langford parishioner Robert Isaacs has dedicated his life to breaking down cultural barriers and improving the lives of disadvantaged people.

Following his birth at King Edward Hospital Subiaco, Robert was taken from his mother and sent to St Joseph’s Orphanage at about six months of age, then onto Castledare Boys Home at the age of four. At age seven, he was sent to Clontarf Boys Town, being only one of eight Aboriginal students among some 250 boys.

In an interview with The Record Magazine, Robert speaks about his life, his Christian faith and most importantly, his culture.

I didn’t know where I came from. I barely knew my age,” says Robert, reflecting on his early years.

“What I did know was that the Christian faith offered me comfort and a sense of belonging and that it was absolutely important for me to put my head down and work hard,” he said.

At the age of 17, having finished his secondary education, Robert says he put his best foot forward and went to look for a job, starting as a sales person at a menswear store.

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THE RECORD MAGAZINE

“I was 17 years old and while I knew reading and writing and arithmetic, I didn’t have a clue about life or social skills, or a sense of identity,” he said.

Following a stint in the armed services, Ro b e r t a p p li e d to t h e We s te r n Australian Institute of Technology ( WA I T ) , n o w k n o w n a s C u r t i n University of Technology, where he undertook tertiary studies in Business Administration.

It was during a visit to the United States as part of a Rotary scholarship,

Upon his return to Australia and at the completion of his studies, Robert took on his first role in the public sector as an Aboriginal health worker. At the time, Robert still didn’t know he was Aboriginal.

Through a lady who introduced herself as Aunty Elizabeth Isaacs, Robert found his family; an event that wasn’t easy and continued for some years to come.

“It has given me an identity, my people and a sense of my place and belonging in the world.

“I learnt what it meant to be a Noongar from the Bibbulmun language group from the south-west.”

Speaking about his various roles since then and life in Aboriginal Affairs, Robert says he has learnt to walk in both worlds – as an Aboriginal who embraces where he came from and as an Australian focused on the future. “ We need a healt hy prosperous communit y that welcomes and accommodates people from all backgrounds, cultures and walks of life,” says Robert.

“My vision for Western Australia is for all of us to come together as one people while respecting each other’s differences and embracing our cultures,” he said.

“It is possible to be true to your culture while contributing to broader society.

It is possible to break the cycle of resentment and disconnect that has resulted in the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.

“It’s a lesson I’ve taught my children. I’ve learnt how to bring together ancient customs and Western values, traditional lore and government legislation.

I’ve learnt that helping people and communities isn’t about handouts, it’s about giving them the skills and a push in the right direction to be selfdetermining.

“I’ve learnt to put aside the hurts of yesterday and work together with all Australians to achieve a brighter tomorrow.

So what is his inspiration today?

“My inspiration today is my wife Teresa.

Her respect for her family, her heritage and her people remind me every day how blessed I am to have found my family despite being from the stolen generation.

“My inspiration for the future are my two daughters. They have wonderful families and careers and a strong sense of social justice and give back to the community whenever they can.

An accomplished highly respected Aboriginal leader from the Bibbulmun Whadjuk Noongar language group, Lynwood Langford parishioner Robert Isaacs has dedicated his life to breaking down cultural barriers and improving the lives of disadvantaged people. Photo: Jamie O’Brien

Spending time in hospital, especially far away from your own community and culture – can be a stressful experience for many patients, but it is something which Reg Carnamah and Donna Ryder, who are Aboriginal pastoral care assistants at Aboriginal Catholic Ministry, aim to reduce.

Cultural knowledge a central part of hospital chaplaincy for Reg and Donna WORDS Caroline Smith PHOTOS Feby Plando

MR CARNAMAH AND MS RYDER

have been working as pastoral care assistants for eight years and three years respectively, providing prayers and support, including that of a specific cultural nature - to Aboriginal patients of all denominations and backgrounds across Perth, in hospitals and private residences.

“We go to the hospital office and the pastoral care workers will bring down a list of patients and we pick it up from there,” Mr Carnamah said.

“I walked into Charlie Gairdners Hospital once and there was an old tribal man there and he didn’t speak a word of English and the nurses were beside themselves and asked me if I spoke his language,” she said.

“Then we’ll go around to the patients and see if we can help in some way or another. And sometimes the patients give us a contact number if they want us to go out into the community and help with a baptism or other sacrament.”

Ms Ryder said people were often just looking for a conversation, but open to receiving spiritual support as well.

“We go everywhere, from the cardiac care to ICU and rehab and mental health wards, and it’s just talking to people,” she said.

“But nine times out of ten people will want prayers, so we’ll give them a rosary and a prayer card and ask them how they’re travelling.”

Since many Indigenous patients come to Perth from country areas, she and Mr Carnamah were able to provide information and a local connection as well, she added.

“Because a lot of our patients are people that come into the hospital from up north or down south, when they come here they don’t have much family here, so we do that initial contact with them,” Ms Ryder said.

“I’ve had patients at Royal Perth that couldn’t find their way back home from Perth and were wandering around outside, and I know the Country Healthcare Services is around the corner, so I would take them there and say, ‘these mob come from so-and-so, would you be able to help them get back home?’”

Mr Carnamah, a Badimaia man from Yalgoo in the midwest, said it was also important for cultural issues to be respected for patients, to make their hospital experience smoother.

“It helps them feel more relaxed and can help break down barriers,” he said.

“I said no, but then I went through our list of patients and there was a young man down the bottom who was from the same area, and I said, bring him up and maybe he can break through the barriers for you, if he sits next to him, he can do the culturally-sensitive stuff because he’s from the same country.

“Over at Royal Perth, there are certain things they’ll do for Aboriginal people, like they’ll serve them emu and kangaroo, even though it’s not on the menu.

“So until we come round, then it’s like, you mob know you can order kangaroo and emu?”

While both pastoral care assistants come from a Catholic background and work for ACM, they support and work with patients of all different faith backgrounds.

“Whatever denomination they are, we just see everyone,” Ms Ryder said.

“We get a list of every Aboriginal patient that’s in the hospital, it normally says on the side if they’re Catholic or Baptist or whatever.

But we don’t discriminate – we just sit and have a yarn and see where they’re at.”

However, people were often happy to receive prayer cards and rosary beads, she added.

“We normally have rosaries in the colours of the Australian Aboriginal flag that we give to everyone, which is pretty amazing, because we’re the only ones that have the red, black and yellow beads, but they’re right throughout our community, they’re everywhere,” Ms Ryder said.

“They’re made by some religious sisters via the Legion of Mary. We just ring them and order rosary beads, and they do about 200 - 300 for us at a time.”

“Because sometimes there will be tribal men and they want to talk to the elders about specific issues and feel uncomfortable talking with the white folks about them.

“Having someone who understands this makes them feel more positive within the hospital.”

Ms Ryder, a Yuat woman from New Norcia, recalled several experiences which showed the importance of cultural knowledge and how it could provide additional support.

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Two years ago, the parish of Balgo in the Kimberley region of Western Australia celebrated its Golden Jubilee, recalling the consecration of St Theresa’s Church on 16 May 1965. During the celebrations, community and church leaders painted artworks recalling the history of the parish and the Old Mission where many people had grown up. One artist – Magdalene Tijiliarn Nakamara Lee, known as Magda Lee – told the story of her birth through the painting ‘My Birth Story at Old Mission’, and through the story which followed, originally told to Magda by her aunty Theresa.

ART WORK BY

Magdalene Tijiliarn Nakamara Lee My mother was due to have me and was due to fly out on the plane to the hospital.

In the evening she had these labour pains so she told her mum to go with her, away from the Mission. That’s when she started having these pains.

They were both down the creek bed when she gave birth to me.

That’s when they had to get some ant hill to put on my head.

They crushed it and put it on my head and some black stuff to keep the flies and mozzies away.

My grandmother went up and dug a hole with some leaves at the bottom.

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THE RECORD MAGAZINE

My mum had to feed me for a while and then had to leave me when I went to sleep in the hole with my head sticking out of the ground. And they left me there and went back to the Mission pretending that they went out to collect food and fire sticks for the night.

In the morning, my aunt y Theresa Mosquito and her husband went along looking for mussels and crabs and my aunty heard a baby cry when the sun was up. My aunty heard a baby and she yelled out to old man and said, ‘there’s four dingoes watching her’. So he

had to chase the dingoes with his boomerangs and then my aunty came and got me out of the ground and took me down to the river to wash me.

I was covered with ants and was crying. She had a little boy in her coolamon and she took a blanket and wrapped me up and took me to the hospital.

The nuns went down to the camp to see how my mum was so she came out of her

ABOVE: Balgo artist Magdalene Tijiliarn Nakamara Lee, known as Magda Lee, told the story of her birth through the painting ‘My Birth Story at Old Mission’, and through the story

humpy that was made out of spinifex and grass and trees.

They saw her and asked her what happened to your tummy.

She told them she had no baby so they took her to the hospital.

They sat her down in the little corner room called the chapel and it had a picture of Saint Mary Magdalene.

Speaking to The Record Magazine, Ms Lee explained that her grandmother had been a midwife who had helped her daughter with other babies.

“She didn’t want her daughter to get on a plane and have the baby in a hospital, so this was why she hid me in the creek bed,” Ms Lee said.

The placing of an anthill on a baby’s head, she added, was a traditional way to protect it, since a baby has soft spots, called fontanelles, on its head.

Ms Lee said she had spent her early years at the Old Mission in Balgo, but left at the age of five to live with her family.

“I went to live with my mum and dad, who were looking after donkeys and sheep on some land nearby,” she said.

which followed, originally told to Magda by her aunty Theresa.

Photo: Fr Ernest Kandie TOP RIGHT: Balgo artist Magda Lee with Bishop Chris Saunders of Broome, explaining her artwork on his vestments. Photo: Supplied

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Agnes Pigram or ‘Aggie’ as she’s fondly known, is an advocate for women, youth and anyone in need of support and guidance in their faith. A proud Yawuru Bardi woman from the Broome & Djarindjin community in the Kimberley, Aggie is currently working at Aboriginal Catholic Ministry (ACM) as the Youth Officer for just over a month. Aggie’s life has taken her from her hometown in Broome helping women in her community to having a voice at World Youth Day 2005 and being nominated North West Ambassador for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC).

She sat down with The Record Magazine to talk about her life, her fondness for her grandmother and her deep faith that has led her to Perth to pursue what she feels is her destiny – helping women and youth in their faith.

Aggie Pigram taking big strides for culture and faith in the Aboriginal community WORDS and PHOTOS Natashya Fernandez

Growing up in a big household with more boys than girls around, Aggie found solace in escaping to her grandmother’s house. It was here that she learned about the Church and her Catholic faith.

some 60 grandchildren, at that time Aggie said she was more bothered about the fact she had been given an old person’s name, but today it makes her feel proud and privileged.

“Going to my grandmother’s house was always my safe haven. During that time, she would take me to Church that was our routine. Cleaning the Church and just being there, knowing I was part of a family and community. The closeness we shared was special,” Aggie said.

“As a young person, I was like, oh I’ve got an old person’s name, but as I got older just embracing that and feeling honoured, made me feel lucky. She was the matriarch of the family and held the whole family together. A strong, resilient woman who single-handedly brought up 12 children. Her commitment to her faith was very much a part of that,” she added.

Having been given her grandmother’s name out of d ah an l a rn a m ultura C g l, e a R u c , it r e ir d p a Ry the s t.

D on n mote escen staff to pro inal d M s ig C e r A iv o r b t with CM s le of A Aggie ips. A p eo p n Phil nt of a e d m n p e Br develo ocial a nd s

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Losing her grandmother was a big setback and hard time for Aggie as she lost touch with her faith and questioned her life many times.

But no matter how many times Aggie stepped away, she was drawn back to her faith through working at the various Catholic institutions in Broome.

history, culture and spirituality as well as the Catholic faith.

second week of June for committee

“It will be a platform for them to share ideas and bet ter understand the connection between both faith and culture. And, empower them all to be proud of who they are and where they come from, and with the right support

be heaps of opportunities for them to

members to come together, there will explore various avenues.

And, if being heavily involved with ACM and the youth program wasn’t enough to keep her rooted in her culture and faith, Aggie runs her own business, Yimijalan Liyan, which she started in Broome in 2004.

Meaning ‘Awaken the Spirit’, with a focus on spiritual empowerment and wellbeing, Yimijalan Liyan offers one-on-one coaching and mentoring sessions and group workshops.

The business came about from lived experiences and something t h at s h e h e r s e l f h a d go n e through, she said.

“Having gone through those struggles, I wanted to be a voice for the young women in my

Aggie Pigram: Inspired by the words of JP II “And the Church herself in Australia will not be fully the Church that Jesus wants her to be until you have made your contribution to her life and until that contribution has been joyfully received by others.” .

community, especially the ones who have been through family violence, drug and alcohol abuse.

“Looking back even during those times, I was working at the University of Notre Dame and the Sisters of St John of God Heritage Centre, so anything to do with the Catholic community, it just kept drawing me back.”

With big shoes to fill and knowing that her grandmother was guiding her in every aspect of her life, Aggie packed up and headed to Perth with her three children to make a difference not just for herself, but to be that support for anyone in need.

While at Clontarf Aboriginal College, Aggie worked in the girl’s academy but was soon drawn to what she was passionate about at ACM, which was working with Aboriginal Youth and setting up the youth arm for the Aboriginal Community.

“It was a good opportunity for me having worked with youth to get on board and start the youth committee.

In this role, I want to inspire our young people to embrace their Aboriginal

Having gone through those struggles, I wanted to be a voice for the young women in my community. and guidance to build strong leaders for the future.

“To talk about the role that society

With plans to start small, the youth committee’s primary aim would be to evangelise, Aggie said.

patterns as women. To stand up to

“In its initial phase with plans just for Per th, it will include forming connections, encouraging youth to attend Mass every month organised by Clontarf College, and open up avenues to gather every month for fellowship, discuss issues and par ticipate in upcoming events, like the Veritas event happening in June and later this year, the Catholic Youth Festival,” she explained.

each other. And, more importantly to

With a formation day planned for the

that they want me to take.”

plays in our belief systems and thought empower and come together instead of bringing each other down, to support create a space for people to talk about it and heal within themselves,” she said.

With big plans for her role at ACM as well as personally, Aggie is sure that it is her grandmother who has blessed her for the opportunities she’s had in her life.

“For me it’s about being directed to what is calling me out there, by my elders, by God, by my faith and the path

I S S U E 8 JULY 2017

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National Reconciliation Week was the perfect time for Catholic not-forprofit organisation MercyCare to reflect upon, account and celebrate the reconciliation journey it has undertaken as an organisation. Photo: Supplied

MercyCare celebrates reconciliation journey M

National Reconciliation Week was the perfect time for Catholic not-for-profit organisation MercyCare to reflect upon, account and celebrate the reconciliation journey it has undertaken as an organisation.

ercyCare formally e m b a r ke d o n i t s reconciliation journey during National Reconciliation Week in 2015, with the launch of its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). This plan is an important part of mapping out the organisation’s journey and aims to facilitate the engagement of head, heart, hands and spirit that recognises the unique place of the First People in Australia and their leadership and contribution to Australian society. In doing this, MercyCare also seeks to build an appreciation of Aboriginal culture and spirituality, counter the negative dominant discourse concerning Aboriginal people and find ways of working together to promote a shared humanity and future.

As part of the Reconciliation Action Plan, MercyC are has rolled out a number of

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THE RECORD MAGAZINE

initiatives in order to facilitate a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture across all levels of the organisation. A significant number of employees have attended workforce development sessions on Aboriginal History and Courageous Conversations About Race, while Board Directors and Trustees have undertaken formation work to extend their awareness of Aboriginal history and culture.

MercyCare is also working to increase the number of Aboriginal employees within the organisation. To facilitate this, the organisation a p p oi nte d a n A b o r igi n a l Em p l oy m e nt Consultant to create and implement an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy,

MERCYCARE

which was initiated in October last year. The strategy was developed to assist MercyCare to introduce new employment initiatives to increase the existing number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff across all MercyCare service areas.

These traineeships are being offered to Aboriginal people who have experienced long term disadvantage in their journey to employment.

The Aboriginal Employment C o nsu l t a nt h as re s p o nsib ilit y for overseeing the Employment Support Program for Aboriginal Traineeships at various MercyCare sites throughout the metropolitan area. The Consultant is coordinating the program by organising training workshops and providing mentoring support, regularly liaising with both trainees and workplace supervisors.

These traineeships are being offered to Aboriginal people who have experienced long-term disadvantage in their journey to employment. The trainees are supported to study for their Certificate III in either Individual Support or Early Childhood Education, as well as completing on-thejob training. The program p rov id e s a uniqu e a n d valuable opportunity for Aboriginal people to develop the skills, experience and knowledge to embark on a career either with MercyCare or other partnering agencies.

March, and said the program had given her a new direction in life.

since launching its first Reconciliation

“I had been unemployed for a long time, so when I heard that this opportunity was available I jumped at the chance,” she said.

seeing how the employment strategy

“MercyCare helped make it a smooth transition into the traineeship and working here makes me feel good. My workplace is warm and inviting and the manager is very understanding when it comes to some of my cultural protocols, she makes it a great place to come.”

“At MercyCare, we want to make

Eva Hansen is also completing her traineeship at the Residential Aged Care facility in Kelmscott, and said she was enjoying working with MercyCare.

respecting and acknowledging our

“I’ve found the traineeship both challenging and rewarding,” she said. “The residents at MercyCare Kelmscott have responded really well to us as trainees and it’s a great feeling to be able to care for others and learn new skills at the same time.”

MercyCare Chief Executive Officer Chris Hall said he was encouraged by how far the organisation had come

Plan and was looking forward to continues to develop and lead to improvements and outcomes for Aboriginal people. meaningful contributions to social, health, wellbeing, economic and political empowerment outcomes for Aboriginal people,” he said.

“This strategy is about continuing o u r r e c o n c i l i a t i o n j o u r n e y of country’s First People, their land and their culture.

“We all have a role to play in the different ways we each contribute to the critical journey of reconciliation in this country.”

MercyCare is a leading Catholic provider of aged care, family, health, disability and community services. We employ over 1000 staff and 175 volunteers, delivering more than 40 programs and services, from 35 locations throughout Western Australia.

Lynley Wilkes began her traineeship at MercyCare’s Re sid e nt ia l A ge d C a re facilit y in Kelmscot t in MercyCare formally embarked on its reconciliation journey during National Reconciliation Week in 2015, with the launch of its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Photo: Supplied I S S U E 8 JULY 2017

19

Associate Professor Clive Walley, Louise Austen, Professor David Paul, Denise Groves and Sharon Bell from Notre Dame’s Aboriginal Health Team. Photo: Supplied

A

new health training hub at Notre Dame’s Broome Campus is set to transform health in the Kimberley, addressing the growing shortage of health care professionals in the region by substantially increasing training opportunities for nursing, midwifery, and allied health students and professionals.

Notre Dame will lead a consortium of universities to establish the Kimberley University Department of Rural Health (KUDRH) as part of a $54.4 million Federal Government initiative announced in April 2017.

The initiative will provide a significant boost for the Kimberley region, ensuring that health students and professionals have a greater opportunity to live, study and work in Broome and in other communities in the Kimberley.

The University’s Broome Campus will receive about $8.5 million – a share of the $26 million in funding set aside specifically for the creation of additional University Departments of Rural Health.

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THE RECORD MAGAZINE

New University Department of Rural Health at Notre Dame Broome Campus to ‘transform Kimberley’ Notre Dame’s KUDRH, which is due to commence operation in 2018, will provide training and undertake research focused on advancing health outcomes for Aboriginal and rural people. It will provide high quality health training and support in the Kimberley through a range of activities including the following: • collaboration with primary health networks and Aboriginal health organisations to implement a model of support assisting and empowering undergraduate students to study and return to work in the Kimberley;

NOTRE DAME

Top award for Notre Dame’s Aboriginal Health Team

A

n award that recognises e xce p t i o n a l p r o g r e s s i n Aboriginal health education has been presented to a team at UNDA’s Australia’s School of Medicine, who are committed to closing the health gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.

Fremantle-based Associate Dean Professor David Paul, Head of Aboriginal Health Curriculum, Associate Professor Clive Walley, Senior Lecturer Louise Austen, Placements Coordinator Sharon Bell and Student Support Officer Denise Groves, are part of Notre Dame’s Aboriginal Health Team that received the LIMElight Award for Excellence in Community Engagement at the

seventh biennial LIME (Leaders in Indigenous Medical Education) Connection held in Melbourne in early April.

The LIMElight Awards recognise the significant and outstanding work of staff, students and medical schools in the teaching of Indigenous health, and Indigenous student recruitment and graduation, across Australia and New Zealand.

As part of a community-engagement program that began six years ago, Notre Dame’s Medicine students travel throughout Western Australia, working closely with Aboriginal elders to educate communities on a wide range of health issues.

Professor Paul said that due to the

long-term nature of the engagement program, Notre Dame’s Medicine students have made a meaningful contribution to bridging the health gap between Aboriginal and nonAboriginal people.

“Notre Dame’s Medicine students are exposed to the Aboriginal Health Curriculum from their first day on Campus, and we provide opportunities for students to learn on Country with Elders over time.

“An exposure to Aboriginal people, and their issues and experiences, ensures that our Medicine graduates are more effective when working with and alongside Aboriginal people and communities,” Professor Paul said.

The University of Notre Dame Australia is the beneficiary of Federal Government funding to establish the Kimberley University Department of Rural Health on the Broome Campus. Photo: Supplied

• increasing community and studentled rural clinical placements; • transition support to rural and remote practices for those new to the Kimberley;

health training hub in the Kimberley to meet the region’s growing demands for highly skilled allied health professionals,” she said.

• professional development opportunities for the existing workforce; and

“It will not only provide greater access for students in an Indigenous health context, but also a rich personal and professional experience that you can’t find anywhere else in Australia.”

• increased research relating to rural and remote health and interprofessional practice.

Notre Dame Vice Chancellor, Professor Celia Hammond said the University was delighted to lead this initiative.

Professor Juli Coffin, Head of Notre Dame’s Broome Campus, welcomed the announcement. “The Federal Government has recognised the need for a multidisciplinary

“It will provide oppor tunities for our students and collaborating universities. We are confident it will make a difference to addressing health workforce shortages and needs within the Kimberley region, and continue our long-standing commitment and presence in Broome,” Professor Hammond said.

I S S U E 8 JULY 2017

23

EDUCATION

S P O T L I G H T:

CLONTARF ABORIGINAL COLLEGE making a difference for the community

S

ituated in Whadjuk Nyoongar co unt r y in Water fo rd in P e r t h’s S o u t h , C l o n t a r f Aboriginal College is one of four curriculum and re-engagement in education ‘CARE’ schools in the Catholic System in WA.

“Our pastoral care provides a welcoming and suppor tive environment for students, reinforced in our college motto ‘Learning for Life’, which hopes to foster in the students a desire to make a difference in the world,” Mr Hayter said.

Principal Troy Hayter says it is known for being a unique place of learning and understanding that respects Aboriginal culture and spirituality.

With a diverse demographic catering to students from across the state including those that are remote, students are offered a variety of oppor tunities that are not just through the classroom program but also through the football and girls academies.

Open exclusively for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, Clontarf’s vision is to develop a culture of excellence and a core curriculum that suits the needs of its Aboriginal students. “ With an innovative curriculum that meets the needs of students, it focuses on developing children fully and enjoys a safe learning environment that challenges students to reach their dreams and full potential,” Mr Hayter said.

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The school was handed over to the Aboriginal community (Indigenous Land Corporation) in 2013, after being built in 1901 as an orphanage run by the Christian Brothers and established as Clontarf Aboriginal College in 1986.

In an interview with The Record in 2013, former Chairman of the Board

Clontarf Aboriginal College was established in 1986 as a co-educational school for Indigenous Australian youth following the Edmund Rice tradition and offers a range of educational programs and varied learning opportunities for students from Year seven to Year 12. Proud of its cultural, spiritual, academic and sporting excellence, today Clontarf is touted as a preeminent Catholic Aboriginal College in Australia.

In this issue of The Record Magazine, Assistant Editor Natashya Fernandez shines the spotlight on Clontarf Aboriginal College, highlighting its significant milestones and plans for the future.

Marika Councillor and Terri Golding, pictured with a student from Clontarf Aboriginal College, were last year recognised for excellence in areas of recent study. The women are now sharing their skills and experience in the Catholic Education WA system. Photo: Supplied

of Management, Aboriginal elder Robert Isaacs, from the Bibbulmun Noongar language group of South Western Australia, said handover was a significant occasion.

“We did it right and now Aboriginal people are satisfied and happy,” Mr Isaacs said.

“Clontarf has given Aboriginal people oppor tunities for educ ation and training, and a start at life,” he said.

Mr Isaacs, who was also a student at Clontarf himself, said he believes the Catholic school system has played a pivotal role in education for Australian Aboriginal peoples.

“There’s a lot of Aboriginal people now going to the private sector of education, which links them into the Church, I know that’s happening right across WA,” he said.

“The more Aboriginal people who go to the private sector, which is Catholic education, then I think it will start something to get them back into church, I’ve seen it happen.”

One of the reasons why combining Catholicism, through education, with the Aboriginal culture can work is because the two are complementary, Mr Isaacs says. “[Aboriginal people] are very spiritual,” he says.

“A lot of Aboriginal people have their own ways of healing and spiritual ways when they’re talking to God.”

Aboriginal Elder Robert Isaacs met with Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB on 22 October 2013 to thank the Church in WA for the support it has given to the Aboriginal community, particularly in education and the handing over of buildings and land to traditional owners. With a larger Aboriginal leadership presence, he says, Aboriginals among the lapsed-faithful are more likely to return to church. Photo: Matthew Biddle

2016 Clontarf Aboriginal College Head Boy Isaac Mann with fellow student, Drew Blurton; His Excellency, the Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove; his wife, Lady Cosgrove, CEWA Executive Director Dr Tim McDonald, 2016 Head Girl Moesha McCormack and Principal Troy Hayter. Photo: Supplied

Mr Hay ter continued saying that students are taught skills for lifelong learning that are developed in par tnership with the academic curriculum and vocational education and training.

“Working partnerships are maintained with community organisations such as the Clontarf Foundation (formerly Football Academy), Clontar f Girls Academy and Industry partnerships that help to improve the education, health and life skills of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women,” Mr Hayter explained.

“Students also have opportunities to collaborate and connec t with Archdiocesan agencies such as the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry (ACM) for their faith and spiritual needs.

Mr Isaacs said his own education experience had been overwhelmingly positive.

“I’m very thankful for the Catholic education I got; without that I don’t

think I would be in the senior positions that I hold in my community today.

“I’m very thankful for the Church; it played a significant role in my life.

“If I wasn’t brought up within the Catholic system, I don’t know where I’d be today.”

• Bishop of Perth, the Most Reverend Dr Mathew Gibney laid the foundation stone for the orphanage’s new building in 1901.

• Originally named St Joseph’s Boys’ Orphanage, in 1919 it became known as Clontarf Boys Orphanage.

• In 1961 it was opened to day pupils and boarders and in 1964 it was renamed Clontarf School to accommodate 303 boys.

• The orphanage closed in 1984 and on 2 May, 1986 reopened as Clontarf Aboriginal College with an in-take of 50 Indigenous Australian boys from remote areas of the state.

• In 2000, the Clontarf Football Academy was established, followed by the successful establishment of the Girls Academy for netball and basketball.

• In 2010, A state-of-the-art Trade Training Centre was built on-site to provide Vocational Education and Training for students.

• In 2012, Clontarf Aboriginal College entered an exciting new era with the completion of new boarding facilities for boys and girls.

I S S U E 8 JULY 2017

17

MOVIE REVIEW

The Case for Christ makes for intelligent quest WORDS John Mulderig

Mike Vogel stars in a scene from the movie “The Case for Christ.� Photo: CNS/Pure Flix.

C

hristian apologetics, the branch of t he olog y devoted to proving t he reasonableness of belief in Jesus, is almost as old as the faith itself.

Maria Marquez (Miguel Perez) to Purdue University

Three documents in this genre, for instance, survive

Strobel has erected to bar acceptance of Christ's

from the writings of St Justin Martyr, who died in the

return from the dead, eg, that the 500 witnesses to

middle of the second century.

it mentioned in the New Testament were suffering

In 1998, former journalist Lee Strobel published

from a form of mass hysteria.

a memoir of his spiritual odyssey from aggressive

It makes for an intelligent quest, though one that

atheism to evangelical Christianity that also grounded

includes a detailed exploration of the medical effects

his faith in objectively assessed evidence.

of crucifixion that would be upsetting to children.

Nearly 20 years later, a screen version of Strobel's

Director Jonathan Gunn and screenwriter Brian

book, The Case for Christ has come alive.

Dunaway).

Each knocks down one of the lines of defence that

Bird intertwine Strobel's intellectual journey with

Set in 1980, the film charts Strobel's (Mike Vogel)

his involvement in a headline-grabbing criminal case

effort to uses his investigative skills - he was a rising

- Renell Gibbs plays the defendant, James Dixon.

star on the staff of The Chicago Tribune at the time,

They also work in a low-key study of Lee and Leslie's

to disprove the Resurrection and thereby debunk the faith as a whole.

strong bond and of the problematic relationship between Strobel and his father, Walter (Robert

He was provoked to do this by wife Leslie's (Erika

Forster).

Christensen) recent conversion, an event that

While not as heavy handed as many message movies,

sparked discord in their previously serene marriage.

24

professor of psychiatry Dr Roberta Waters (Faye

The Case for Christ, which is acceptable for a wide

Strobel consult s a variet y of exper t s, from

audience, succeeds more as a vindication of the

archaeologist-turned-Catholic-priest Father Jose

rationality of belief than as entertainment.

THE RECORD MAGAZINE

BOOK REVIEW

In God’s Hands: The Spiritual Diaries of John Paul II -

CHRIST AS THE CENTRE OF HUMAN LIFE WORDS By Josh Low

IN

reading the recently released In God’s Hands: The

Christ as the centre of human life, with the need for mankind to

Spiritual Diaries of John Paul II, it would be normal

always be turned towards the Father, which is both expressed

to question one’s worthiness in having the opportunity to gain

clearly in writing and by the questions he raises.

such an insight into one of the greatest minds the Catholic

There is also a great emphasis on the importance of an intimate

Church has seen.

relationship with the Virgin Mary, with John Paul II’s own

Initially published in Polish in 2014 and first published in

apostolic motto, ‘Totus Tuus’, or in Latin, ‘Entirely Yours’ seen

English earlier this year, the contents of the diaries were

reflected several times throughout the diaries.

collated from two notebooks, in which the now Saint John

His personal devotion to Mary is conveyed to the reader,

Paul II recorded his personal notes and reflections, related

with its foundation based on the theological and spiritual

primarily to reflection days and retreats he attended.

approach of St Louis de Montfort.

It is clear to the reader that the entries were personal and

Because the book is a collection of spiritual reflections that

written without an intention or thought for them to be shared,

avoid a narrative, it should be read slowly to grasp its content

which has led to some controversy, especially due to John

and fully comprehend the nature of this great Saint of our time.

Paul II’s request for his notes to be burned after his death.

Whether as a member of the clergy, or a layperson, a view into

In the foreword to the book, former personal secretary to

the mind of Pope St John Paul II will most definitely provide

Pope John Paul II, Cardinal Dziwisz, expressed his reason for

some benefit to the reader’s own relationship with God.

not destroying the diaries, stating that they held the key to

Upon reading his spiritual diaries the reader may very well

understanding his private spiritual life.

begin contemplating on the same questions which Pope St

With scanned copies of the original writings from John Paul

John Paul II asks, on whether or not he was doing enough

II’s diaries, the reader sees the actual writings of the Saint

for God.

and how his handwriting changes toward his final years

“Do I love the word of God? Do I live by it? Do I serve it willingly?

marred by illness.

“Do I serve the Holy Spirit that lives in the Church?” he asks.

The diaries begin July of 1962, during his tenure as Auxiliary

“Do I proclaim the Gospel with complete conviction?”

Bishop of Krakow, until March in 2003, some two years before his death.

John Paul II draws from scripture, the works and examples of saints and popes of the past, along with events from the history of the Catholic Church.

The collection of diary entries have a thorough spiritual focus, without a specific narrative and no mention of current events or happenings within society.

What the reader gets an insight into is his own thought process and its depth, and the humility of this successor of St Peter.

The main themes running throughout the diaries focus on In reading the recently released In God’s Hands: The Spiritual Diaries of John Paul II, it would be normal to question one’s worthiness in having the opportunity to gain such an insight into one of the greatest minds the Catholic Church has seen. Photo: Sourced

I S S U E 7 JULY 2017

25

Connection to Country is the basis of the Spirituality and Law of the many Australian Indigenous cultures. An attempt to artistically intersect this spiritual focus on place, with the Franciscan spirituality of Priest–Architect, Monsignor John Cyril Hawes (1876-1956), is the crux of the Triptych artwork that is the entry statement of the new museum in the Nunnagurdee Country of Geraldton.

Cultural collaboration

In the shade of a gum tree, he fashioned an Altar from a rocky outcrop and it became known as ‘Mass Rock’.

It is still there today and covered in lichen.

It is this lichen that humbly serves as part of the photographic background of the Triptych artwork together with the bush medicine and everlastings painted by Bonni.

All three members of the art group travelled through parts of the Midwest to photograph aspects of the buildings and experience the spirit of the Country.

in ecclesial art WORDS Sabrina Dowling Giudici

C O N T E M P O R A RY A B O R I G I N A L A R T I S T Bonni Ingram of Badimia Country (Mount Magnet district), visual artist Anton Blume and art producer Sabrina Dowling Giudici living on the Ingaarda and Bayungu Countries (Carnarvon district), joined together to create this artwork with the Latin title Dolores – Spes – Sanatio – Redemptio.

It visually expresses the inner journey of how sorrow can through embracing the gift of hope, transform our life through healing and eventually redemption.

Monsignor Hawes himself travelled extensively through the bush of the Midwest region from 1915 till 1939.

He remained understanding and respectful of the lives of the Aboriginal families who lived in the parishes he served.

Not least was in the parish of Mullewa where he lived for many years while still serving families across vast distances.

It was here that he felt deeply for the plight of the Aboriginal families who were not welcome in the town, so he reached out and met with them in the bush about two kilometres from the town and created an outdoor Mass area.

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THE RECORD MAGAZINE

Bonni Ingram followed the path of her own family’s journey, one that saw them shift from their home Country to the coast and eventually to Carnarvon.

In attempting to capture the essence of the spirituality of this architect priest, Bonni used her passion for her family’s country to paint in celebration and recognition of their lives and connection to it.

Anton Blume digitally infused the paintings by Bonni Ingram with his photography and original architectural drawings and diary sketches by Monsignor Hawes, embodying the eclectic harmony that also characterised his architecture.

Director of Heritage from the Diocese of Geraldton, Fr Robert Cross, says the artwork collaboration is a wonderful contribution to the art heritage of the Diocese.

“It recognised the art heritages of both the Aboriginal peoples of our land and that of Monsignor Hawes,” Fr Cross said.

“The artwork picks up on both the love of Monsignor Hawes for Aboriginal people and his own style of earthy art as expressed in his awe-inspiring architecture. It speaks to us very much of what the Church is about – a profound connection with people in the condition of suffering – but the need to have hope for healing and then redemption – never quit.”

The Monsignor Hawes Heritage Centre is set in the grounds of Monsignor Hawes’ most famous architectural work, the renowned St Francis Xavier Cathedral, in Geraldton, Western Australia. It is a single storey museum building dedicated to the person and works of the internationally renowned priest and architect Monsignor John Cyril Hawes (1876 – 1956).

COLOURING

I S S U E 8 JULY 2017

27

DAMPER RECIPE BY Daniele Foti-Cuzzola

D

amper was traditionally prepared by stockmen and drovers who would travel to remote areas for weeks on end, with limited access to supplies. These men would travel with only basic rations consisting of

flour, sugar and tea; and with limited access, they required food that could endure their long journey. Damper, therefore provided them with a filling food option that was easy to cook. By having flour and salt on hand, and access to water, the drovers and stockmen would cook their own bread straight on the ‘damped’ coals of their campfire. Today, damper recipes have evolved with some including the addition of butter, milk and even beer. For this recipe, I have infused the damper mixture with sea parsley (sea celery), which is a native Australian herb that is similar in appearance and flavour to its European counterpart. Damper is best eaten on the day it is made and is traditionally served as an accompaniment to stew but is also enjoyable with a generous dollop of butter.

INGREDIENTS

28

METHOD

• 3 cups self-raising flour

Preheat the oven to 200°C.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured

• 1 teaspoon salt

Line a baking tray with non-stick baking

surface and knead lightly and briefly to

• ½ cup sea parsley (sea celery)

paper.

bring to a smooth ball.

• 80g butter, cubed, chilled

Sift self-raising flour and salt into a bowl

Shape the dough (roughly 3cm-thick, 20cm

• 1 cup tepid milk

and stir in the parsley

round) and place onto the prepared tray.

Using your fingertips, rub butter into the

Use a sharp knife to score the top of the

flour until the mixture resembles fine

damper into 8 wedges.

breadcrumbs and the butter is evenly

Dust lightly with flour and bake for 30-35

incorporated.

minutes, until the damper is lightly golden

Make a well in the centre and add the milk.

and cooked through.

Use a flat-bladed knife to mix until the

Damper should sound hollow when you

dough comes together in clumps. Use

tap it on the base. Allow to stand for ten

extra milk if necessary.

minutes before serving.

THE RECORD MAGAZINE

ACTIVITY PAGE

ACROSS 2 Laying on of ___

converted in 2007

7 Patron saint of sailors 22 “___ in a manger…”

8 Rosary prayer

23 Church council

9 First patriarch, to his friends?

24 One of the Magi

10 Patron of Australia, St. Francis ___ 12 Seventh century pope

26 Church runway 28 Direction from Nazareth to Jerusalem 29 Enter by the ___ gate

13 Condition of the tomb on Easter morning

31 International Catholic aid org.

14 The Lord’s ___

32 Love your ___ as yourself

15 Religious ceremonies 16 Sts. Simon and ___ 18 Ishmael, to Jacob

33 It had come to ___ 34 The Church Militant is here

20 British Prime Minister who DOWN 1 A Medici pope 2 It is said after the Gospel 3 “___ My God to Thee” 4 “Feed my ___” (Jn 21:17) 5 Describes the soul

22 Second woman mentioned by name in the Bible (Gn 4:19) 23 Member of a religious order 24 Vessel for perfuming the altar

6 ___ of the Holy Spirit

25 Angel of the highest order

11 Brother of Moses

27 ___ Coeur

12 Biblical instrument

30 Diocese of LaCrosse is located in this state (abbr.)

16 “In Christ there is neither ___ nor gentile…”

17 What the sea bottom became when Moses parted it

ANSWERS

19 The whole earth had one before the Tower of Babel 21 The Diocese of Boise is here

I S S U E 8 JULY 2017

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Cover image, Bush Medicine Spes by Bonni Ingram

JUNE

ISSUE 8

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER & EDITOR Jamie O’Brien jamie.obrien@perthcatholic.org.au MOB: 0455 099 652

ASSISTANT EDITOR Natashya Fernandez natashya.fernandez@perthcatholic.org.au MOB: 0423 463 591

JOURNALISTS Caroline Smith caroline.smith@perthcatholic.org.au MOB: 0413 824 828

Joshua Low joshua.low@perthcatholic.org.au MOB: 0402 546 232

VIDEO JOURNALIST Daniele Foti-Cuzzola daniele.foticuzzola@perthcatholic.org.au MOB: 0409 682 105

2017

OUR MISSION STATEMENT The Record Magazine seeks to promote awareness and understanding of vocation – God’s particular call to each of us to live and become what we were created to be. There are many such vocations – marriage and family life, priesthood, religious life or being single – with the first and universal vocation being to holiness, as described by the Fathers of the Church in Lumen Gentium.

DISCLAIMER The Record Magazine is published bi-monthly.

Views expressed in published articles are not necessarily those of the publisher or Editor. The Editor may refuse copy or material, including advertisements, for publication. Inclusion of an advertisement in The Record Magazine does not reflect endorsement or responsibility from the publisher or Editor.

MEMBERSHIP The Record Magazine is a member of the Australasian Catholic Press Association and Australasian Religious Press Association.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS We welcome unsolicited articles and photos; however, we do not guarantee replies to unsuccessful submissions.

Please send all information to: editor@therecord.com.au

CONTACT Archdiocese of Perth Communications Office Phone 08 9220 5900 Email editor@therecord.com.au Address 21 Victoria Square, Perth WA Postal Address PO Box 3075, Perth WA 6832

PRODUCTION Feby Plando feby.plando@perthcatholic.org.au

ADMINISTRATION Bibiana Kwaramba bibiana.kwaramba@perthcatholic.org.au

PUBLISHED BY THE

Archdiocese of Perth

30

THE R ECOR D M AGAZINE

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NOTICE The issue may contain images of deceased members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

Images are used with respect and appreciation.

© 2017 The Record.

Copyright 2017. No part of The Record Magazine may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from the publisher. The Record Magazine liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. Proudly printed in Australia by Scott Print.

This publication is printed using vegetable inks, is ECF (Elemental Chlorine Free) and has ISO approval for international environmental certification.

THE RECORD MAGAZINE R E A D ER SU RV E Y 2 017

The Record Magazine is produced for people of the Perth Archdiocese.

We welcome feedback so that we can ensure that we can continue to publish content that is of interest to our readers. Your input is greatly appreciated so please take the time to respond to the questions below.

I am a: � Male � Female

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III

When you receive The Record Magazine do you generally:

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� 1 - 5

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� More than 10

� None

� Regularly

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� Sometimes

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Do you read The eRecord?

VI

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Did you read The Record Newspaper?

V

How many people in your household, including you, generally read The Record Magazine?

IV

II

� Regularly

Please rate the following statements on a scale of 1 to 10 (1 being strongly disagree and 10 being strongly agree) Strongly Disagree

Strongly Agree

I find The Record Magazine informative:

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1 0

I find the articles in The Record Magazine interesting to read:

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8

9

1 0

In find the articles in The Record Magazine relevant to my faith/life:

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9

1 0

I like the layout and design of The Record Magazine:

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1 0

VI

Are there any current issues affecting your faith/life that you would like to see in The Record Magazine?

VII

Please provide any further comments to ensure that The Record Magazine better meets your needs.

Please email this survey to editor@therecord.com.au or via post to PO Box 3075 Perth, WA, 6832

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