The Record Magazine Issue #11 (December 2017)

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ISSUE 11 DECEMBER 2017

ADULT FAITH

AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF STATISTICS AND THE BOOK OF NUMBERS TE STI M O N Y

FATH E R H O O D

C O M M U N IT Y

Margaret Talbot: 30 years of religious life PAGE 12

Reflecting the love of God our Father PAGE 14

Exploring the spirit of Opus Dei PAGE 18

Official magazine for the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth

Featured this month 12

Adult Faith ABS and the Book of Numbers

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18

Opus Dei Exploring the spirit

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“ ‘Fill the jars with water,’

Focolare Encourages reflection on God’s word

and they filled them to the brim.”

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— John 2: 7 FROM THE EDITOR Jamie O’Brien In this issue of The Record Magazine, we take a look at the

Fatherhood

meaning of Adult Faith, and how this is taking place across

Reflecting the love of God our Father

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the Archdiocese of Perth.

The Church, says Saint (Pope) John Paul II, has always considered catechesis one of her primary tasks, for, before Christ ascended to His Father after His resurrection, He gave the apostles a final command - to make disciples of all nations and to teach them to observe all that He had commanded. (Catechesi Tradendae).

In his book, Lessons for Living, John Paul II questions how can we profess faith in God’s Word, and then refuse to let it inspire and direct our thinking, our activity, our decisions,

FROM THE ARCHDIOCESE

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From Archbishop Timothy Costelloe From Auxiliary Bishop Donald Sproxton

IN THIS EDITION Centre for Faith Enrichment

and our responsibilities toward one another? He goes on to

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

say that faith is always demanding because faith leads us

Conversion Story: Michel Bertram

beyond ourselves. “Faith imparts a vision of life’s purpose

Neocatechumenal

and stimulates us to action.”

Movie Review

The Record Magazine is a magazine for the people and I hope

Book Review

you will enjoy taking the time to engage with us. Please feel

Colouring Page

free to share your thoughts via editor@therecord.com.au, or

Activity Page

by contacting us on 08 9220 5900.

Recipe: Panforte

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Joy to the World, the Lord is Come

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe with Fr Conor Steadman at last year’s Christmas Vigil Mass. Photo: Ron Tan

ARCHBISHOP’S WORD

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB has written to the Catholic community across Perth for Christmas

A

f ter four weeks of Advent, preparing to

greatly disturbed and then confused. How, she

greet the joyful season of Christmas, we

asked, could what the angel was telling her, possibly

now turn our attention to welcoming the birth of

come true?

Jesus, Son of God and Son of Mary.

Equally, the deep faith and openness to God which

Apart from Jesus himself of course, the two

marked Mary’s response to the angel, were also

central figures of the Christmas story are Mary

present in Joseph. He is presented in the Gospel

and Joseph. Many other people have a part in

stories as a man of courage and compassion, ready

the story – there is Mary’s cousin Elizabeth, her

to respond to God’s call, even if he doesn’t fully

husband Zachariah and their newborn son, John.

understand it.

There are the shepherds and the Wise Men who

This call to faith in the midst of confusion, to

come to Bethlehem to see Mary’s baby. There is

courage in the midst of uncertainty and fear, and to

King Herod and the inn-keeper in Bethlehem, who

trust in God in the midst of adversity and difficulty,

could find no room for the young couple in need.

is one which we all face in the circumstances of our

And of course, there are the angels who appear to

own lives. God’s ways and God’s call are not always

the shepherds, to Joseph, and most significantly

easy, comfortable or welcome. And yet Joseph,

to Mary.

once he understood what God was asking of him,

The story of the birth of Jesus is first told in the

responded with determination and courage.

Gospels. It has been retold in story and in song for

Mary too, once she realised that the Lord would

more than two thousand years. And it has been

support her in all that he was asking of her, gave her

depicted for us in beautiful, masterful works of art.

unconditional “yes”. Mary and Joseph therefore

It is interesting to note that several icons of the

become for us, models of what faith looks like

16th century depict Joseph as brooding, puzzled

in daily life. In the end, the depth of our faith is

and perplexed, as he struggles to come to terms

revealed by the measure of our trust in God’s

with a situation which initially makes no sense to

fidelity to his promises: to be with us always, to

him. The many representations of the Annunciation

lead us along the paths of life, and to draw us into

on the other hand, often show Mary kneeling in

the mystery of his saving presence in our world.

prayer before the angel, who brings the news of

Because Mary and Joseph were people of such

the conception and birth of Jesus to her. Mary is

deep and trusting faith, “the Word became flesh

rightly presented as a woman of extraordinary faith

and lived among us”. May we too allow the Lord

and total openness to God’s will for her.

this Christmas to develop in us a deeper and more

And yet the puzzlement and confusion of Joseph

trusting faith, so that through us, he might come

were present in Mary too, as the Gospel account

into the lives of all those we meet.

of the Annunciation makes clear. When the angel

I wish you and all those you love and care for, a very

appeared to Mary, we are told that she was at first

happy and holy Christmas.

+ Archbishop Tim Costelloe SDB A RCH B I S H O P O F PER T H

Scenes of Bethlehem invoke memories of great faith and courage

Church of the Nativity, Israel. Photo: Sourced TOP RIGHT: Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton with pilgrims at Mt Tabor during his visit to Israel in April 2017. Photo: Gemma Thomson

BISHOP’S WORD

A

s this very busy year draws close to its end, I want to extend to the people of the Archdiocese my

visited Bethlehem myself, it means that I have a new set of thoughts about the circumstances and concerns of

best wishes at Christmas and for the New Year. I will be

the people of that city today.

praying for your happiness as you celebrate the birth of

Life is very difficult in that place. The Christian

Jesus, and for peace in your families, our society and the

Palestinians are harassed and intimidated, along with

entire world in the Christmas season.

their Muslim brothers and sisters. Increasing, irritating

It was a privilege for me to be able to visit the Church

regulations are implemented to pressure and unsettle

of the Nativity in Bethlehem this year. In the courtyard

the people. Many have given up and seek permission to

of the Church stands the permanent crèche of the Holy

migrate to other countries where they may live in peace

Family, and the shepherds and wise men who visited the

and freedom.

new born Jesus. I have used this scene on my Christmas

This Christmas, and I am sure on every Christmas Day

card for this year. The figures in the tableau are life size

from now on, I will recall the people I met in Bethlehem.

and beautifully dressed. Their faces show a range of

I will remember their great faith and courage. I will pray

emotions: wonder, delight, surprise and respect.

that their trust and hope in Jesus will be strengthened.

The crèche draws towards itself the pilgrims as they

They are most proud of the fact that God chose their city

leave the church, having visited the place where Jesus

to send his Son. They celebrate the way that the message

was born. It reinforces visually the wonder of the birth of Jesus, the Son of God and son of Mary.

of Christ has gone out from their city to so many cities,

In our parishes, the building of the crib during Advent is

towns and villages throughout the world. They feel a link with us across the world and they pray that we will

a treasured custom. Some parishes design and construct very elaborate presentations. I have seen some amazing

cherish our common Christian faith.

depictions of Bethlehem, which have involved the stream running through the middle, and people occupied

So I pray that each of us will look again to Jesus with eyes of wonder, delight, surprise and respect, as we celebrate his coming among us in history and today.

at their daily tasks. The children are fascinated by the

Let our faith in Christ be renewed in difficult times. May

involved and interesting detail.

our hearts be turned more and more towards him, so

These help me to think about the circumstances and

that individually and as a Church we will be converted

concerns of life at the time when Jesus was born. Having

to stand for justice and the building up of our society.

building of the entire town in miniature form, with a

Bishop Donald Sproxton AUXILIARY BISHOP OF PERTH

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Is it no surprise that the latest findings from the census undertaken by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) showed the number of people identifying as “Christian” is waning. But it should be remembered that Christianity, as a derivative of Judaism, started off with a band of twelve followers.

A DU LT FA I T H •

ABS and the Book of Numbers WORDS Michael B rit ton

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n 1966, more than 88 per cent of Australians identified as being Christian, today that number is barely more than 50 per cent. What happened?

Christianity has been growing rapidly in third-world countries where, some scoffers argue, an enlightenment has not yet occurred as technological and cultural advancements are yet to take place in these countries.

The 52 per cent of Australians who identified as Christian might not also actually be Christian. It may be the case that some respondents to the ABS survey simply ticked the “Christian” box out of protest to a changing cultural paradigm; just as the many who dislike Christianity for various reasons would have ticked the “atheist” box out of spite.

Unsurprisingly, there has been a growing trend toward atheism which is somewhat interesting given most atheists don’t have a regimen of group attendance, meditation, communion or communication. They have one creed: There is no God and they don’t meet weekly to confirm or renew their beliefs.

But of the Christians, how many people in the survey would identify as actually having an adult faith. Surely there is a difference between fulfilling one’s Sunday obligation out of a sense of duty, ticking a box as a cultural Christian, being a conservative and having faith.

One reason is that the Church usually receives negative coverage in the media and this hasn’t helped in transmitting faith. Yet, studies upon studies have shown Australians as wealthy and independent. Generally living comfortable lives. Yet substance abuse, violence and suicide are at alarming rates.

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The recently released movie Silence, which focused on the oppression and persecution of some 300,000 Catholics in Japan, had one particularly remarkable scene. It was when the 16th Century General of Nagasaki admitted “it seems that the more we persecute you, the more our people convert to your faith.” In one sense, the Japanese weren’t the first in discovering this truism so it is no surprise that, in countries like Australia, antiCatholic sentiment has become more subtle, more pervasive. A bit like public wi-fi, it is freely available, it is ubiquitous and is growing in subscription. Gone are the heady days of the likes of BA Santamaria and the, arguably, “Catholic” Democratic Labor Party (DLP) which helped keep Prime Minister Menzies in power for nearly two decades.

As parents, our children still receive a valuable Catholic education from their teachers and parents alike. The results, still, are worrying.

A PhD study by Brother Luke Saker at Edith Cowan University in 2005, found 90 per cent of graduating Catholic students regarded their

Philosopher and writer Søren Kierkegaard's statue in Copenhagen, Denmark. Photo: Adobe Stock.

faith as unimportant. How could someone of so

Gaining faith is moving toward a willingness to

few years in age, without having read the likes of

accept whatever God’s will as our (good) Father

Chesterton, CS Lewis, Kierkegaard, Aquinas or

may be. This is a “leap of faith;” not as it has been

many notable others have come to such a militant,

taught into the unknown, but into the Hope of the

wilful and unshakeable conviction? Such a faith?

goodness of the Lord.

I n h is f a m o u s b o o k , Fe a r a n d Tre m b li n g,

In this modern age, it is not the number of Christians

Kierkegaard’s espoused his, somewhat incredulous,

that exist but the strength of faith itself in those

admiration for, Abraham, the Father of Faith and

numbers. The ABS survey does not differentiate

his willingness to give up his own ideals and

between the number of Christians willing to give

convictions (or “will”) as the final step toward faith.

their lives to daily prayer, nor does it show the

“Your will be done” is a sentence often uttered, but

number of Christian respondents willing to put their

the Nietzschean Übermensch (“superman”) desire

faith before their jobs, properties, wealth or even

to “fulfil yourself,” always returns.

their lives. Indeed, it may sound harsh, unspeakable

But as history often repeats, there is also plenty

or even foreign to ask these things of today’s

of evidence to show that faith is “catching.” But if

Australian Catholics; yet, historically, it’s a question

it is so catching, why aren’t the next generations

that has continually repeated.

catching it as readily as they once did?

Abraham was willing to give his only son out of

In a post-Vatican II environment there has

love for God. Kierkegaard, and many others, have

been the growth of a number of ecclesial and catechetical movements that encourage its members to move away from a natural or primitive religiosity whereby one prays and barters with an all-powerful and distant God for good things to

struggled to fathom that. The question has always been “are you willing to leave behind your way of life, lands and comfort for me?” The answer to this question will often determine where someone is on a journey towards an adult faith.

come. This is hardly faith; this is a quid pro quo

Michael Britton has lectured in politics,

arrangement: “I will offer up sacrifices and you will

philosophy and history at the University

do my will.” Many religions operate this way. In

of Notre Dame Australia, Edith Cowan

Christianity, the sacrifice has already been made.

and Curtin Universities.

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How Perth Catholics can explore central questions of faith, life and meaning Today, many adults face questions of faith, life and meaning. Navigating through such questions in a manner that builds faith and understanding can at times be challenging, and can in some cases result in one becoming discouraged in their pursuit of answers and understanding.

“Our team of presenters believes that everyone should have the chance to explore the Christian faith, ask questions, share their experience with others and take steps towards becoming an adult Christian,” says CFE Director, Dr Marco Ceccarelli. “ While at tending Mass and receiving the sacraments is fundamental and necessary, our faith needs to also be sustained and nourished

W

hat do we really believe about the Bible?

Does the world need Jesus Christ? If so, why? If God is so good, why do bad things happen to good people? What does the Church mean when it speaks of eternal life? How did we come to believe what we do about Mary the mother of Jesus? What is the essence of Christian life?

Finding meaningful answers to these questions often requires the help of adult faith formators who are well equipped to unpack the teachings of the Church in a variety of areas.

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by an engagement with Scripture and with the teachings of the Church.

“Taking that step toward enrolling in a course run within your parish, in a nearby parish or online, or attending courses and events onsite at the CFE headquarters, these can be the first step towards answering lingering questions which many of us have,” Dr Ceccarelli added.

The CFE’s faith formation programs incorporate prayer, quiet reflec tion, guided imager y, conversation, service, music and stories.

The Centre for Faith Enrichment (CFE), the official adult faith formation agency of the Archdiocese of Perth, fulfils the purpose of introducing people to the figure of Jesus Christ and supporting their relationship with the body of Christ – the Church.

East Victoria Park parishioner, Mireille Pontré,

It does so in a way that is accessible to adults and relates to their life experiences, helping them to form a Christian conscience and to live their lives in the world as followers of Jesus.

Genesis, Exodus, Isaiah, the Psalms, the four

The CFE offers short daytime, evening and weekend courses on a wide range of topics, such as theology, Church history, spirituality and Scripture, at various locations throughout Perth and online.

“Since enquiring about the CFE, each term I have

THE RECORD MAGAZINE

has been attending CFE courses for more than four years and has found the study of Scripture particularly fulfilling.

“Having the opportunity to study the Bible Gospels, the Letters of Paul - has been very enriching for me and helps to make me live each mass more deeply. picked two or three courses offered and each of these has been very important for my journey of faith and in deepening my understanding of Christianity,” she said.

A similar experience was described by Floreat/Wembley parishioner, Christine Young, who has attended the CFE for 25 years (inc when it was previously known as Maranatha).

“The Centre for Faith Enrichment has helped my faith enormously. Learning about adult faith and why we believe what we believe has helped me grow as a person. Also, I found mixing with other Catholics to share values and common queries of pertinent issues we all experience in modern life very helpful,” Ms Young said.

Commenting on adult faith formation ministry’s modern-day challenge of acting as a bridge for young people’s continued faith journey into adult life, CFE presenter and Team leader of Catechist services at Catholic Education Office of Western Australia, Dr Pina Ford, stated that faith formation must be sustained at all stages of life.

Learning about adult faith and why we believe what we believe has helped me grow as a person “Young people like all of us need formation that connects the content of faith to their lived experience, especially during those challenging late teens and early adulthood years when personal identity and life foundations are established.

“They are probably more adamant in seeking this connection than those of us who are older! That is, they are more likely to be seeking an ‘authentic’ experiential faith, to develop faith as individuals but side by side with their peers in group contexts; they like to question and debate; are drawn to issues-oriented study, matters of social justice, practical service and of course digital learning.

“The CFE has all the foundations that enable the provision of faith formation to adults of all ages. Collaboration with Archdiocesan agencies such as Catholic Youth Ministry would assist both agencies in catering for the specific needs of young people.

“Pope Francis has said that ‘Providing formation for young people is an investment for the future: young people must never be robbed of their hope for tomorrow,’” Dr Ford said.

The Centre for Faith Enrichment is located within the Newman Siena Centre at 33 Williamstown Rd, Doubleview. For more information, contact 08 9241 5221 or visit website, www.cfe.org.au.

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M A RG A R E T TA L BOT

30 years of religious life started with desire to help the poor WORDS Jamie O’Brien

A

d esire to help the poor and to be a missionary led to a vocation to the religious life which has

spanned across several continents for more than 30 years for Perth woman, Margaret Talbot, or Sr Mary Margaret of the Eucharist as she is now known.

In a special interview with The Record Magazine, Sr Mary spoke about her life as a religious sister and what inspired her to dedicate her life to God through constant prayer and the Eucharist.

Born in Jamshedpur, India, Margaret was the fourth of eight children of Patrick, a mechanical fitter and turner and Crystal Talbot, a full-time mother.

In 1961, the family moved to London, England, where Margaret started school at St Mary’s Primary Hendon, Middlesex, before heading to St Thomas Aquinas College, Stanmore.

After some nine years in England, the family emigrated to Perth, arriving in Australia by boat in 1970, and Margaret resumed her education at Sacred Heart, Highgate, which she completed at the age of 16, where she then went on to complete a commercial technical course for one year at what was then known as Balga TAFE. With the help of her sister Primrose, Margaret went on to work in the records section with the Department of State Housing, having previously undertaken work at a large retail company.

It was 1975 and it was then, she recalls, that she started feeling a strong call to do something different. What she now knows as her initial calling.

“I wanted to be a missionary and I read a book called Something Beautiful for God, by Malcolm Muggeridge on Mother Theresa,” Margaret said.

“I understood very clearly afterwards that I had a strong desire to be with the poor, I wanted to help,” she said.

An active member of Mirrabooka Parish, St Gerard’s Church, Margaret was volunteering her skills as Secretary to the St Vincent de Paul Society, visiting those in need and delivering vouchers to assist with purchasing food and clothing.

In early 1980, Margaret made the decision to enter the Sisters of Charity, which was at the time based in Fiztroy, Melbourne.

“I liked the Order very much and used to go visiting prisoners, drug addicts and the poor with other sisters.

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“At the time I was very young and missed my family very much,” she says.

And so, after six months, Margaret returned to Perth, taking up work at an aged care facility. She spent the next the few years contemplating where life would take her next, praying for inspiration.

“I belonged to a group who used to dedicate their time to going to the Blessed Sacrament every day for one hour for a month,” Margaret explained.

I belonged to a group who used to dedicate going to the Blessed Sacrament every day for one hour for a month “Unfortunately a series of events prevented me from going to a pilgrimage to Lourdes to see the Holy Father, so I waited until the time was right,” she said.

It was the invitation of then Geraldton Bishop Barry Hickey to attend the Eucharistic Congress in Nairobi, Kenya in August 1985 that Margaret realised God had something special planned for her life.

It was there that Margaret found a brochure about the Order of Perpetual Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament. The Order was originally established in Italy by Blessed Mother Mary Magdalene of the Incarnation, who was made Blessed in 2008.

“At first I thought it was a nice souvenir,” Margaret recalls of the experience.

“But I was determined to find out more, so when I returned home to Perth I wrote to the Mother Superior, but I didn’t receive a response.”

Margaret took her cause to then Cardinal Otunga, who in turn wrote to the local Bishop, the Most Rev Bishop Caesar Maria Gatimu.

It was Bishop Gatimu who encouraged the Mother Superior to accept Margaret into the Order. And so on 7 October 1986, Margaret entered the Order as a Postulant for three months, which was extended for another three, due to fact it was too difficult for her to return to Australia.

After 15 months as a Novice, she made her first profession on 26 December, 1989 and her Solemn Profession on 26 December, 1992. Her mother Crystal was present for both occasions.

Now based in Vigevano, Milan, Sr Mary Margaret says she never forgets the words of Bishop Gatimu.

“He encouraged me in my desire to love Jesus through the Eucharist,” Sr Mary says.

“And instilled in me the words of the Magnificat.”

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Reflecting the love of God our Father Now more than ever in today’s society, the father figure is in danger of becoming more and more hidden or even absent.

WORDS Josh Low

A

ccording to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there are currently

two years later in 2015 in a series of

“Fathers sometimes are so concentrated

catecheses on the family, saying that we

on themselves and on their work, and at

close to 1 million single parent families

have come to the point of affirming that

times on their own individual fulfilment,

in Australia, of which more than 80 per

ours is a ‘fatherless society.’

that they even forget the family. And

cent of single parents are female.

“The figure of the father, particularly

they leave the little ones and young

The Census however, does not also

in our Western culture, is symbolically

people alone.”

take into account fathers who may be

absent, vanished, removed.

physically present, but emotionally

Pope Francis said there is a great need

“The problem of our days does not seem

for a father be present in the family,

to be so much the invasive presence of

close to his wife, to share everything;

Speaking about fatherhood in 2013,

fathers, but rather their absence, their

joy and sorrow, hope and hardship, but

then Pope Benedict XVI raised the issue

hiding,” he said.

also to his children as they grow.

distant.

of fatherhood in the modern world.

“It is not always easy today to talk about fatherhood. Especially in our Western world, the broken families, increasingly absorbing work commitments, concerns, the fatigue of trying to balance the family budget and the distracting invasion of the mass media in daily life are some of the many factors that can prevent a peaceful and constructive relationship between fathers and children,” he said.

Pope Francis reiterated those comments

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“When they play and when they strive, when they are carefree and when they are distressed, when they are talkative and when they are silent, when they are daring and when they are afraid, when

The importance of fatherhood

they take a wrong step and

in our society and the role it

when they find their path again;

plays in reflecting the God

they need a father who is

the Father is a topic which has

always present,” he explained.

been discussed for decades,

“To say “present” is not to say

with Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI emphasising that being a

“controlling”! Fathers who are

good father requires looking to

too controlling cancel out their children; they don't let them

the example of God the Father.

develop.

“It is ‘God who shows us what

“A good father knows how to

it truly means to be a father’, which can be seen especially

wait and knows how to forgive

in the Gospel which reveals

from the depths of his heart.

the face of God as a Father

Certainly, he also knows how

who loves even to the giving

to correct with firmness: he is

of his own Son for the salvation

not a weak father, submissive

of humanity,” he said.

and sentimental.

“God is a Father who never abandons

“The father who knows how

his children, a loving Father who

to correct without humiliating is

supports, helps, welcomes, forgives,

the one who knows how to protect

saves… the love of God never fails, never

without sparing himself.”

tires of us, it is a love that gives to the extreme, even to the sacrifice of His Son.” Through looking to and following the example of God the Father, Pope St John Paul II declared in his Apostolic Exhortation, Familiaris consortio that fathers are called to live heroic lives.

“In revealing and in reliving on earth the very fatherhood of God (cf. Eph 3:15), a man is called upon to ensure the harmonious and united development of all the members of the family.’

“He will perform this task by exercising generous responsibility for the life conceived under the heart of the mother, by a more solicitous commitment to education, a task he shares with his wife (cf. Gaudium et spes, 52), by work which is never a cause of division in the family but promotes its unity and stability, and by means of the witness he gives of an adult Christian life which effectively introduces the children into the living experience of Christ and the Church.”

As our current Pontiff outlines, if there is someone who can fully explain the prayer of the “Our Father”, taught by Jesus and described as the ‘cornerstone of prayer life’, it is the one who lives out paternity in the first person.

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Rite of Christian Initiation Deepening one’s faith in Christ WORDS Natashya Fernandez

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is that personal journey of deepening one’s relationship with Christ through a supportive community of faith. Photo: Ron Tan

Those who believe, see; they see with a light that illumines their entire journey, for it comes from the Risen Christ, the Morning Star which never sets.

Lumen Fidei, Pope Francis, 2013.

Believing means to entrust oneself to the merciful love of God who has the power to make straight the crooked lines of our history. Faith consists in the willingness to let ourselves be constantly transformed and renewed by God's call.

T

he Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is that personal journey of deepening one’s relationship with Christ through a supportive community of faith. Sitting down with RCIA Archdiocesan Director, Karen Hart, she speaks in depth about the RCIA, why more and more people are responding to Christ’s invitation, and says we are all on a conversion journey in our lives.

Regardless of our materialistic needs, people still have that innate yearning, those internal questions about faith expressed in our Catholic way of life, and this is where the RCIA comes in, Mrs Hart explains.

“Through the RCIA, we look at the spirit of the person, because people come from such variable backgrounds

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and complex family experiences, that we have to meet them where they’re at. It’s not about us giving them our faith, it’s about them deepening their faith with Christ.

“We haven’t invited them to become Catholic, Christ has. So when they go through the process of Christian Initiation, we have an opportunity to share our faith and knowledge with them,” Mrs Hart said.

While each person who goes through the RCIA are following their own unique and personal response to Christ’s call, Mrs Hart said they will explore and deepen this relationship within a supportive RCIA Parish community of faith, while still allowing them to understand how Catholics live, gather, pray, worship and serve others in Christ.

“Essentially that is what we are here to unpack. We are making them familiar with the Gospels, prayer and worship and the Catholic tenets of faith. They don’t have to know them by heart but can deepen their relationship with Jesus,” she added.

The RCIA involves stages of conversion, which are enquiry, the catechumenate, Lent and ongoing discipleship, Mrs Hart said.

“In the Archdiocese of Perth, these stages are shared through Lectionary Catechesis, exploring the Sunday Readings; Liturgical Catechesis, which focuses on the Rites and rituals of Catholic faith, plus prayer and worship, and lastly, Instructional Catechesis, which explores the Catholic tenets of faith. “ While each phase is unique, the catechumenate is the longest period, where we delve deeper into the liturgical seasons, the meaning of prayer, Mother Mary and the Saints, Eucharistic Prayer, the Sacraments, and more.

“I’m not talking about giving them apostolic exhortations, but we have to explain to them the Papacy and how we are one, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. We are not giving them a theolog y degree but we definitely need to break down the meaning of the Creed,” she explained.

One of the major hurdles sometimes f a ce d in t h e RCI A is t hat many people wanting to convert only want super ficial information or a quick summary, she added.

“The groups start mid-year and continue to the following Easter when they are received into the Church, with sessions concluding at Pentecost. The uniqueness of each person’s journey involves a gradual unfolding and deepening of their relationship with Christ.”

Mrs Hart also touched upon a new RCIA model currently being run by Mt Lawley Parish Priest Father Tim Deeter, together with Fr Peter Porteous from Joondanna Parish and the Very Rev Monsignor Harry Entwistle from the Ordinariate Community of Our Lady of the Southern Cross (Parish of Ninian & Chad, now based at St Paul's Church, Mt Lawley).

Alternating their meetings between Mt Lawley and Joondanna parishes, Fr Deeter said that the three parishes have joined together to run a two-year program with around 18 to 20 members including an Anglican, Lutheran, Baptist and two atheists attending the weekly meetings.

RCIA Archdiocesan Director, Karen Hart, explores the RCIA, why more and more people are responding to Christ’s invitation, and says we are all on a conversion journey in our lives.

Photo: Josh Low

“At our two preliminary planning meetings, it was decided to follow the United States two-year model for catechumens, and less time for candidates if they have some background in the Christian faith,” Fr Deeter said.

“A number of studies of RCIA in the US show that a significant percentage of those who have gone through the RCIA tend to drop out within five years. This is attributed to a ‘rushed program’, a tendency to begin formation in August or September, and then complete formation in time for the Easter Vigil, which gives only five to six months for meetings.

“So the formation given in this short time tends to be superficial, and many new Catholic adults feel unsure about many teachings and practices of the faith.

Despite having ‘journey sponsors’ during the RCIA, some of these new Catholics aren’t helped much after the process comes to an end,” he added.

She said that in the situation of those people who want to become Catholics for external reasons, the Catechist will work with them to look more inwardly.

Fr Deeter added that the text used for the two-year program is Essentials of the faith: A guide to the Catechism of the Catholic Church by Fr Alfred McBride OPraem, together with segments from two DVD series, titled Catholicism (Bishop Robert Barron) and Symbolon (Dr Edward Siri).

“That is what our role is here. They have responded to Jesus’s invitation to become a Catholic, and we are only there to help them and be a part of this journey,” she reiterated.

With the model running smoothly and successfully, all priests and teams are happy with the format and participation is great, Fr Deeter explained.

Mrs Hart said that the RCIA is not all warm and fuzzy, it is all about commitment.

“By the end of the two-year program, we are confident that those who have joined the Church will remain with the Church because they will have a solid foundation of two years as catechumens or candidates,” he concluded.

“Because we are not facing the pressure of getting the program done by Easter 2018, we are able to move at a more relaxed pace, discuss topics more thoroughly, and get to know one another better.

I S S U E 1 1 DECEMBER 2017

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“Your ordinary contact with God takes place where your fellow men, your yearnings, your work and your affections are. There you have your daily encounter with Christ.” ― Saint Josemaría Escrivá

Exploring the spirit of Opus Dei WORDS Josh Low

f

ounded by St Josemaria Escriva in 1928, The Prelature of the Holy Cross and Opus Dei (more commonly known as Opus Dei, or ‘Work of God’ in Latin) is a personal prelature of the Catholic Church, a canonical structure of the Church made up of a prelate, clergy and lay people who undertake specific pastoral activities.

With approximately 95,0 0 0 members of Opus Dei worldwide, 600 of which reside in Australia, along with countless others who participate in the formational activities offered, St Josemaria explained that the spirit of Opus Dei ‘reflects the marvellous reality that any honest and worthwhile work can be turned into a divine occupation.’

“In Jesus’ hands, work, an ordinary job like that done by millions of people throughout the world, becomes a divine task, a redeeming job, a path of salvation,” he said.

Opus Dei spokesman Richard Vella said members are ordinary Catholics who belong to the diocese in which they live.

“The essence of the spirit of Opus Dei is that work, family, social life and everything that makes up ordinary life provides opportunities for us to develop a deep union with Jesus Christ, to serve others and to improve society,” Mr Vella said.

Photos supplied by Opus Dei Information Office

“This message is familiar to all Christians. Opus Dei’s uniqueness lies in providing ongoing formation for people and personalised support to live out this aim.”

Much attention was given to Opus Dei after the release of Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code, after featuring a murderous monk from Opus Dei guarding the secrets of Christianity. (There are no monks in Opus Dei).

“This book and movie was popular fiction, but totally separated from reality. The release of the book and movie did however, allow those in Opus Dei to talk more about the true story behind Opus Dei. “The reality is that Opus Dei teaches what the Church and Holy Father teach. If one was to come to formational activities, they would be encouraged to work well - to give glory to God, to take seriously their responsibilities as a father, mother, husband or wife, be a good friend, live Christian virtues and to serve others, all in imitation of J e su s C h r is t ,” M e m b e r of O p u s D e i i n Pe r t h , Tony Hicks, said another commonly misconceived n ot io n i n O p u s D e i , is t h e i d e a of m o r t if i c at io n and sacrifice.

“In fact, it involves small sacrifices done out of love, with the aim of turning the focus away from ourselves and onto Jesus Christ and those around us.

“Maybe eating less of something you like, not grabbing the best cooked meat at the family BBQ, or even waking up on time,” he said.

He added that being in Opus Dei required using your own initiative to spread the word that God loves and cares for us.

“Who do we spread this word to? To our colleagues at work, our family; that includes in-laws and outlaws and all those we meet in our day to day activities.

“My Parish Priest won’t have the same opportunity to talk to my schoolmates that I do, or the customers I meet every day.

“It’s a sensitive subject to chat to someone about their religious beliefs so how do I do this? By just being a friend and getting to know them.

“Friendship takes time to develop and it means making an effort to meet outside work, on the weekends, sharing holidays and time away together and maybe some social initiatives - sharing lives which means sharing joys and sorrows.

My Parish Priest won’t have the same opportunity to talk to my schoolmates that I do, or the customers I meet every day.

“In this way we can pass on this message that Christ actually lived on earth, had a life not unlike ours, has His message recorded in the Bible and remembered by the Church, and wants to have a personal relationship with each of us.

Mr Hick s explained that Opus Dei f acilit ates yearly three day retreats and monthly evenings of ‘Recollection’ with the aim of renewing our personal relationships with God. “The retreats are small; 10 – 15 people and allow time for reflection and the sacraments.

“An ideal retreat involves one person and one priest, however that’s not viable so the retreats are organised for people with common interests and lives; retreats for working men, retreats for university students, retreats for mums at home, retreats for working women; anyway you want to slice and dice - it’s a chance to begin again and refocus on this adventure of life and our friendship with Christ,” he concluded.

For more information about Opus Dei, contact the Information Office via email info.au@opusdei.org or Richard Vella on 0407 400 890.

I S S U E 1 1 DECEMBER 2017

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Focolare encourages reflection on God’s word and practical implication WORDS Caroline Smith

F

or members of the Focolare movement in Perth, following in the footsteps of foundress Chiara

In that way, we are Christians, but we just stress

Lubich means engaging with the world in a way

She added that members would often take the

that encourages fellowship and unity, whether it’s befriending newly-arrived refugees, meeting with people from other faiths, or reflecting on the Gospel.

The movement – whose name means ‘hearth’ or ‘fireside’ in Italian – was founded in the city of Trent during the Second World War, when Chiara and her

certain points more.” messages from these meetings and use them in their working and social lives.

“Young people or families or people who are working in different areas as professionals might develop their spirituality according to their own

friends went out to visit and to help those affected by regular bombing raids on the city.

Later, these friends continued to gather – often at retreats in the Dolomite Mountains – to reflect on the need for unity in a world torn apart by hatred and division. Their retreats came to be known as ‘Mariapolis’, inspired by Mary, and the movement spread across the world, reaching Australia by the late 1960s.

Focolare Perth members Aida Barbosa and Coris Taffertshofer, said that gathering to reflect on God’s word and its practical implications was a key formation activity for the group in Perth, through monthly ‘Word of Life’ meetings.

“We have different aspects within the Word of Life which emphasises different topics, such as the will of God, love your neighbour, love one another,” Ms Barbosa said.

“So as time goes on, we are able to develop a kind of spirituality that focuses on those things in particular.

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THE RECORD MAGAZINE

Focolare Perth members Aida Barbosa and Coris Taffertshofer. Photo: Supplied

interests. So they might be actively involved in their communities and bring their Christian faith into their environment, so that they can create something more concrete.”

One recent initiative for the group involved providing suppor t for recently-arrived refugees in Perth, through a connection between Focolare and Father Elias Kilzi, Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Annunciation Melkite Catholic Church.

“One of our members, Clarissa, had a meeting with Fr Elias who said that he was keen that we help but none of us knew how,” Ms Barbosa said.

“The first thing we did was share with our friends in Focolare about it, and let them know how these people needed help with conversational English and goods for their home: mainly food and furniture.

“People could put a call for support in their parish newsletters, and we had support from ASETTs (Association for Services to Torture and Trauma Survivors) and the Edmund Rice Centre, to help these families and support them through different classes.”

Fellowship with refugees was a continuing part of the Focolare g r o u p i n P e r t h , a c c o rd i n g t o Ms Taffertshofer, who said that developing a mutual relationship was integral to this.

“For example, they might have something to share with us, and we can share something with them.

Reflecting on how Focolare came to Per th, Ms Barbosa said that fellowship between families had a lot to do with it.

“It started with the International Eucharistic Congress which was held in Melbourne in 1976. “A Perth couple Brian and Denise Mills came

out and they had been invited to represent the parishes of Perth,” she said.

“While they were there, they were invited by the Focolare community to visit for an open day with their children. They were very touched by what they were told about the movement starting, and how members of the Focolare group lived.”

... They were very touched by what they were told about the movement starting, and how members of the Focolare group lived.”

After their return to Perth, the couple maintained a connection with the movement in Melbourne, hosting some members who came to visit and attending Mariapolis retreats that were held in Melbourne in the following years.

The first Perth Mariapolis was held in 1978 in Point Peron, bringing together several families who had become interested in the movement locally, along with visitors from interstate and overseas.

The Mariapolis now take place in Perth annually and carry a theme relating to the teachings of Chiara Lubich.

The most recent one – held in the Chittering Valley – carried the theme ‘The Window’, based on Chiara’s concept that it was through Jesus’ anguish on the cross that God entered into the reality of human suffering.

In attendance were members of both the Catholic and Anglican communities in Perth, along with some refugee families. Speakers included Focolare members from Melbourne and Rome.

Reflecting on her own faith journey, Ms Taf fer tshofer said she had encountered Focolare as a teenager growing up in Germany, at a time when she was challenged in her own beliefs.

“I had three older brothers and they lost the faith in their teens, around 14 or 15. I was unsure myself about my faith and asked a lot of questions,” she said.

“In Germany at the time, there was a lot of talk about psychology and philosophy and it made me question my faith as well. In this time, I met members of the Focolare and they were so convincing and attentive - I felt something significant was there.

“I was spending time with this Focolare group, then going home to my family and friends, who had very different ideas: so I was very in-between at that time. Then I read a bit of the Gospel which says, if you love me, I will reveal myself, so I said to myself: do now what you are saying. So I was challenging God a bit. And indeed, after four weeks, I felt the presence of God so strong in me, so I was able to put aside my indecision and join Focolare.”

I S S U E 1 1 DECEMBER 2017

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A chance encounter to attend Mass not only got Michel Bertram curious about the Catholic faith, it also opened up a deeper yearning to find the truth and to learn more about this God that kept bringing him back, every time he tried to walk away.

T

hree years after converting to Catholicism, Michel discusses in a candid interview with The Record Magazine about his first time attending Mass, the insatiable questions he had after his second visit to Church and why his Catholic faith is important to him.

Having been put off of going to Church twice before, Michel said he wasn’t very hopeful about attending another Mass again but being given a book about Padre Pio, titled Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry, led him to question a few things about his life.

“I believe my conversion started while reading the book. It’s difficult to explain it, but it felt like all my life, I lived in this little box and all of a sudden someone opened the lid and tipped it over and I fell out of it. I recognised things like my sins, which I didn’t think about before,” he said.

AN AGNOSTIC RESPONDS FERVENTLY TO GOD’S CALLING WORDS Natashya Fernandez in 2005, Michel explained religion was something that was never discussed or spoken about.

I wanted to be sure I was chasing the truth, so I read a lot of books, but always came back to the Catholic Church.

Even though he had a great relationship with his parents, it came as a surprise to them when he expressed his desire to convert to Catholicism.

“It always felt like they had an answer for everything. I could connect the dots more clearly. It was like I found the truth and nothing else could match up to it.

“ B efo re I d e c i d e d to co nve r t , I researched a lot of other religions.

“When I decided to get baptised in 2014, my parents were quite surprised.

The book opened up a lot of things which led Michel to want to learn more about the Catholic faith and its traditions, as well as Jesus and His teachings.

“I wanted to change my life. I always thought I lived a sinless life. Oh boy, was I wrong,” he said.

“My fluffy life was a thing of the past and I wanted to do something about growing in my faith.

“The only way to achieve it is to know the truth, live the truth and be the truth.”

Coming from a family of non-believers who moved from Germany to Australia

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Michel Bertram made his commitment to move forward in his faith journey in 2014 at Lockridge Parish. Photo: Supplied

Michel Bertram together with members of his RCIA group at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Lockridge in 2014. Photo: Supplied

I didn’t know how to pray and felt like I wasn’t worthy enough or that I was too small to be heard by Jesus

I fell in love with the world and its people - God’s people.

Christ.

“Praying to Mother Mary got me a lot closer to Jesus.

It’s beautiful to see how she led me right to her Son,

They weren’t sure if it was just a ‘thing’ I was into, or

our Lord,” he added.

if I really took it seriously. They learned quickly that I

Michel added that seeing and watching people in the

was serious.

Church and the work they did was an inspiration to

“I’m forever grateful that they were there to support

him.

and share the moment with me as I received my first

“When I first started going to Mass, I would admire

Holy Communion,” he said.

each person and their faith. I always said to myself, ‘I

While Michel said that he was a very negative person

wish I had their faith’. It was a long road to build my own

and always saw the worst in people, something

faith and deepen my relationship with Jesus.

changed as he grew deeper in his faith.

“I learned a lot through the RCIA program at Good

“It made me happier and gave me a positive outlook.

Shepherd Catholic Church, Lockridge. Even nowadays

“I saw the world with different eyes. I fell in love with

I see other people’s faith and it motivates and pushes

the world and its people - God’s people,” he said.

me to deepen my own.

He attributes all of this to three main reasons - prayer,

“With many challenges thrown his way, Michel said his

Mother Mary and the faithful people around him.

only way to overcome these challenges was to actively

While prayer gave him strength and hope when he

live his faith.

stumbled into Church with barely any faith, he says that

“I never stop praying. Even when days are hard and

he can still see the power it has in his life three years on.

things don’t go as planned, I continue to pray. If I can

“The more I pray, the more I’m in tune; it helps me stay

use the tools the Church gave me, why not pass it on

focused, spiritually and mentally. Like Padre Pio said

to others?

about the Rosary, ‘with this weapon you will win’.

“It’s now my time to give back what was passed on to

“The first prayer I learnt was the Rosary. I never

me; by evangelising and sharing the Good News with

prayed to Jesus in the beginning of my faith journey.

the world,” he concluded.

I S S U E 1 1 DECEMBER 2017

23

w Neocatechumenal Communities welcome poor, broken, to become witness to the love of Christ WORDS Jamie O’Brien

ell known for enriching the faith of churchgoers,

Cathedral, Cottesloe, Rockingham, Kelmscott and Baldivis.

bringing back those who have been

Today, Mirrabooka Parish has seven communities, each with some 20 to 30 people of varied ages, backgrounds and experiences.

far-away, converting non-believers and comforting troubled youth, the Neocatechumenal Way now has more than 15 communities across five parishes in Perth.

Acknowledged as “an itinerar y of Catholic formation valid for our society and for our times” in 1989 by then Pope John Paul II, the Neocatechumenal Way arrived in Perth in 1986 thanks to the generosity of two lay missionary catechists, Toto (Antonio) and Rita Piccolo together with their young family.

Toto, an engineer, and Rita, a teacher, were 18 when they first became involved with the Neocatechumenal Way in their parish in Rome, near St Paul’s Basilica, in 1971.

In 1977, there were sent to Australia as itinerant c atechis t s, with the blessing of then Pope Paul VI, with the aim of opening communities of the Neocatechumenal Way, Here in Perth, communities are now present in the Parishes of Mirrabooka,

24

THE RECORD MAGAZINE

The word ‘catechumenate’ comes from the early church, explained Mr Piccolo.

“It was the process that people had to undergo before being baptised,” Mr Piccolo said.

“The word ‘Neo’ is used, because a majority of people that come to this experience of the Neocatechumenal Way have already been baptised.

“But often they have had no opportunity to live this reality,” he said.

Former Mirrabooka Parish Priest and Perth Auxiliary Bishop Donald Sproxton, said he met the Neocatechumenal Way when it had already been introduced to the parish.

“It was at one of the celebrations that I saw how it had re-built marriages and helped individuals come to a better understanding of their faith and the relationship that God wanted to have with them,” Bishop Sproxton said.

“I became convinced that the

Across Australia, families like

follows a catechumenate process,

HOW THE NEOCATECHUMENAL WAY BEGAN

is an excellent way of people

In 1964, Kiko Arguello, a young

coming to an adult faith.”

painter and teacher of fine arts,

Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney,

He said that during his time as

met Carmen Hernandez, a young

Neocatechumenal Way, which

P a r ish P r ie s t at Mir r a b o o k a , the brothers and sisters of the Neocatechumenal communities were of various ages and experiences.

“There was a place for each person regardless of their experience or their age, so I saw that the

the Piccolos are evangelising in

lady with degrees in Chemistry, who was studying theology - in one of the shanty towns in Madrid. It

Per th now has six families-inmission, including two families who for the missio ad gentes in Baldivis.

The missio ad gentes are called by

gypsies, that Kiko and Carmen took

Bishops to make an implantatio

the first steps towards what would

ecclesiae in areas where the Church

become the Neocatechumenal

does not exist or where it cannot

Way.

reach people.

Communities

people to grow together in faith.

Neocatechumenal Way form after

“The need of having to create

a series of talks, or catechesis,

Parish was no longer necessary

Canberra, Adelaide and Darwin.

was there, among the poor and the

Community offered a place for

separate groups by ages in the

parishes in Perth, Bunbury, Broome,

of

the

in a parish, which announce the ‘Kerygma,’ a Greek word meaning

“When some people start coming to the Neocatechumenal Way, they often come when they are experiencing a challenging time, or a crises,” Mr Piccolo explained.

because the Neocatechumenal

the announcement of salvation.

Way enabled young people to

“The presence of a community

become actively involved in the

in a person’s life helps them to

celebration of the liturgy.

become a witness to the love of

“This meant that they received

Christ, a sign that attracts people

and broken.”

who are far away from the Church,”

“They come to know the Church

of the Eucharist than perhaps

Mr Piccolo said.

is a mother where they can go for

they might have done otherwise,”

“In this way the Parish becomes

help and re-discover hope there,”

Bishop Sproxton reinforced.

missionary,” he said.

said Bishop Sproxton.

much more from the celebration

“You start to talk to some of the young people and they have many problems, and come to you all poor

I S S U E 1 1 DECEMBER 2017

25

MOVIE REVIEW

STABLE ANIMALS TELL STORY OF BIRTH OF CHRIST IN THE STAR

Bo is aided in this endeavour not only by

WORDS John Mulderig

slaughter the Holy Family and the pair of

Dave but, eventually, by an affectionate sheep called Ruth (voice of Aidy Bryant) whom the pals encounter along the way. Together, the critters do what they can to thwart the unspeaking hulk of a soldier Herod has dispatched to ferocious-seeming but not entirely evil dogs, Thaddeus (voice of Ving Rhames) and Rufus (voice of Gabriel Iglesias), accompanying him.

As a range of characters rely on prayer for guidance and strive to do God’s will, Mary and Joseph present the image of a well-balanced marriage by being strong for each other in moments of trial or doubt. Though some liberties are taken with the scriptural account -Catholic viewers will especially notice

Animated characters appear in the movie “The Star.” Photo: Supplied

A

holiday treat suitable for all but the tiniest, The Star (Sony) is a delightful animated version of the Christmas story told from the perspective of some of the animals present in the manger.

Director Timothy Reckart and screenwriter Carlos Kotkin skilfully balance religious themes such as the importance of prayer and the value of forgiveness with a more secular message about pursuing your dreams. They also throw in a healthy dose of straightforward entertainment.

from the Annunciation scene - overall, the script is faithful to the Gospels.

The inclusion of light-hearted humour, moreover, does nothing to detract from the appropriately reverent treatment of the movie’s sacred subject matter. Though a couple of silly themed lines designed to make little ones giggle might have been dispensed with, overall this is a very solid choice for family viewing. All the more so, as

They work their way into the biblical narrative of Jesus’ birth through the adventures of a gentle donkey from Nazareth named Bo (voice of Steven Yeun). Curious about the world beyond the grain mill where he carries out his monotonous work, Bo yearns to exchange his life of drudgery for the fame and prestige to be gained by joining the storied royal caravan.

it may serve as the starting point for a

Bo’s best friend, a lively dove by the name of Dave (voice of Keegan-Michael Key), shares this ambition. And the pals get a chance to fulfil their aspirations when Bo successfully escapes his confinement, though he injures his leg in the process.

and your family. Please ensure to include

Bo is tended to by no one less than Mary (voice of Gina Rodriguez), after which his quest takes a detour. Despite the mild disapproval of Joseph (voice of Zachary Levi), Mary adopts her patient as a pet. Bo, in turn, becomes dedicated to protecting the parents-to-be, as they journey to Bethlehem, from the murderous scheming of King Herod (voice of Christopher Plummer).

26

the absence of the phrase “Hail, Mary”

THE RECORD MAGAZINE

discussion of faith in general and of the Incarnation in particular.

The Record Magazine has 10 in-season tickets to The Star to give away. Simply tell us why Christmas is special for you your name, postal address and a contact number. Winners announced Monday 18 December.

The film contains scenes of peril and a bit of very mild scatological humour. The Catholic News Service classification is A-I - general patronage. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG - parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

BOOK REVIEW

FIONA BASILE BREAKS HER SILENCE WITH DEBUT CHILDREN’S BOOK WORDS Daniele Foti-Cuzzola

I

t was only fitting that Melbourne based photographer and journalist Fiona Basile named her debut

“I want children to know that we are all

“It was a lovely surprise to receive the

unique and precious and loved by God.

letter from the Vatican and to receive Pope Francis’ blessing,” she said.

children’s book Shhh…God Is in the

“The book emphasises the importance of silence, and reaffirms that God lives

“But I can honestly say, it’s a highlight

in our heart – I hope it encourages

every time I do a book reading.

in children, a closer relationship with

“My heart sings every time I read the book

Silence, as it was in the silence that she found her inspiration.

After working for several years at the

God.”

Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne’s

After completing her draft in Malta in

Kairos, Basile took a period of extended leave and enrolled in a 30-day silent retreat in Malta in late 2015.

“I wrote the book late one night toward the end of the retreat, so it had been cultivated in an attitude of silence and deep listening,” Fiona recalled.

“The retreat provided an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to work through

September 2015, Fiona decided that publishing her book would be her personal ‘heart project’ for 2016.

to a Kinder, Prep, Grade One or Two class.

“Once I have read a few pages, the children understand the rhythm and usually join in – it’s beautiful. I love making eye contact with as many as

“It would be something I’d do ‘for the

possible when I say the words, I love

joy of it’ and to honour the prompting I

you, you are precious; there is no one

received during the silent retreat.”

else like you; I created you; you are safe.”

Fiona decided there and then in Malta

Since releasing Shhh God Is in the Silence,

that she would enlist religious education

Fiona has signed a contract with a

and visual communication teacher, Alice

publishing house in the USA, indicating

me creatively, providing me with the

Mount, to do the illustrations.

that more books are on the horizon.

words, and giving me the inspiration

“I had previously purchased Christmas

“I’m always writing in my journal,

cards that Alice had created and sold,

and certainly try to be open to the

to transform them into a beautiful children’s book.

which featured her illustrations...Her

promptings of the Holy Spirit, so we’ll

“It took a few drafts that evening, but I

illustrations are simple, yet profound.”

see if there’s another book or more in

eventually got there. I wanted to get to

It was a 15 month long process between

the pipeline. I certainly hope so”.

drafting the book and receiving her first

Shhh…God is in the Silence is available

the heart of it – that God loves us and lives in our heart.”

printed copy which Fiona describes as a

via www.godisinthesilence.com. For

Fiona wrote Shhh..God Is in the Silence

“steep, but joyful learning curve.”

with her two nephews in mind, who at

And it seems the hard work has paid

Fiona Basile, simply tell us in 25 words

off. Earlier this year, on the feast day

or less where do you experience God?

“The book is written primarily for three

of the Assumption, Fiona received a

Email your answer with your full name

to six year olds in mind with the aim of

letter from the Vatican informing her

and postal address to therecord@

helping children to connect with God in

that Pope Francis had received a copy

therecord.com.au by by Wednesday,

a gentle and affirming way.

of the book.

January 10.

the time were three and five years old.

your chance to WIN a signed copy by

I S S U E 1 1 DECEMBER 2017

27

COLOURING

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THE RECORD MAGAZINE

ACTIVITY PAGE

ACROSS 1 Faith-sharing

22 St. Mary’s Cathedral

program used in

is this New South

the UK, Australia,

Wales capital

and South Africa 3 Morality 9 Brother of Jacob 10 “___ homo”

24 Italian city of St. Clare 26 What the disciples did in the garden while Jesus prayed

11 Our Lady 12 “Give us ___ day our daily bread” 14 “…a man sows, that he will also ___.” (Gal 6:7) 16 “…as you did it to one of the ___ of these my brethren, you did it to me.” (Mt 25:40) 17 Catholic sports figure Lombardi 18 Kingdom of David 20 Paul’s hometown is found in this modern-day nation

37 Representation of thirteenth station of the cross 30 Catholic columnist Bombeck 32 “Vanity of vanities” source (abbr.)

34 Nationality of most popes 35 Home of St. Rose 36 What Jesus told the blind man to do at the pool of Siloam (Jn 9:7) 37 Name of God

DOWN 1 Tithing percent 2 Wise Men 4 Where the Presentation took place 5 Tradition says Bartholomew preached here 6 Make holy

24 “His mercy is from ___ to…” (Lk 1:50) 25 “Here am I; send me!” speaker 26 Holy one, in Paris 28 First name of a German saint who died in Auschwitz

7 “___ My God to Thee”

29 ___ and Omega

8 Religious instruction

31 Altar balustrade

for converts (abbr.)

13 The Lord, in Madrid (with”El”) 15 Former DRE

33 It was touched to mouth of 25D ANSWERS

17 Patron saint of dancers 19 Joseph was sold into slavery here 21 Arrival of 2D 23 Dinah, to Esau

I S S U E 1 1 DECEMBER 2017

29

PA NFORTE ITA LIAN CHRISTMA S C AKE RECIPE BY Daniele Foti-Cuzzola

A T C H R I S T M A S T I M E , Italian pastry

families all throughout Italy and has become a popular

shops and bakeries produce a number of delicious

Christmas gift here in Australia, where it is readily

cakes, pastries and breads that are associated with the

available. The delectable combination of dried fruits, nuts,

birth of Christ. Among the many popular Christmas

honey, spices and chocolate is a beautiful personalised

treats produced at this time, is Panforte, which literally

gift to give to your loved ones this Christmas, and the

translates to ‘strong bread’. Panforte is a speciality of

combinations of nuts and fruits used can be altered to

Siena, Tuscany and dates back to the 13th Century,

suit you and your loved ones tastes.

where it was traditionally given as a gift to Monks and Religious Sisters of local Monasteries. Over time, Panforte became a refined product that was enjoyed by aristocrats, noblemen, the wealthy and the clergy.

Today, Panforte is a Christmas staple for many Italian

Ingredients • 100g blanched almonds, roasted, chopped • 100g hazelnuts, roasted, skins rubbed off • 100g unsalted pistachios • 100g glace apricots, chopped • 100g glace figs, chopped • 100g mixed peel

Method

• 100g plain flour

Preheat oven to 150° C. Grease and line a rounds 20cm spring-form pan.

• 2 tablespoons good—quality cocoa

Mix chopped nuts and glace fruits in a large bowl.

powder, plus extra for dusting • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

combine. Put caster sugar and honey in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to the boil and then remove from the heat.

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Place chocolate in a bowl over a pan of simmering water and stir until melted.

• 55g Caster Sugar

Pour the melted chocolate and honey syrup into the fruit-and-nut mixture.

• ½ cup honey

Stir until well combined. Spread the mixture into the pan and bake for 25-30

• 100g good-quality dark

minutes. Set aside on a wire rack to cool completely in the pan.

chocolate, roughly chopped

30

Sift flour, cocoa and spices together. Add to the fruit and nut mixture and stir to

THE R ECOR D M AGAZINE

Once cool, remove from the pan and generously dust with icing sugar or cocoa.

Cover image by Ron Tan

DECEMBER

I SSU E 11

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER & EDITOR Jamie O’Brien jamie.obrien@perthcatholic.org.au

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PUBLISHED BY THE

Archdiocese of Perth

2017

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