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"Be indefatigable in your purpose and with undaunted spirit resist iniquity and try to conquer evil with good, having before your eyes the reward of those who combat for Christ."

THE PARISH. THE NATION. THE WORLD. www.therecord.comau

Western Australia's award-winning Catholic newspaper since 1874 - Wednesday June 24 2009

Perth, Western Australia $2 4

Chris Cypher: ordinary man, extraordinary Benedict XVI

GIFT

"Sound bursts through the dazzled mind awaken the senses, to the chirping of the winged guardians of the garden palace. The living bustle of the grey-cold new day. Mind-sad observer trudges off to the next duty troubled, by the thought ofangels in this age of scientific prooft only." - From Angel in the Park, by Chris Cypher

Leederville gardener-poet would have burned his manuscripts if it wasn't for education colleagues. • By Deb Warner

ALKING to Chris Cypher in the grounds of the Catholic Education Office in Leederville where he is a gardener I find myself in the presence of an ordinary man with an extraordinary gift. Early this year he self-published a book of his poetry, The Gardener's Prayer - A Journey into the mysteries of the Natural World. The collection of poems celebrates the beauty of nature whilst never forgetting the Creator. As Mr Cypher puts it, "Nature reflects God's presence in our lives." Born in England in 1944, Chris Cypher moved to America at the end of World War II with his parents. The family spent 18 months there. They then came to Australia where Mr Cypher has lived ever since. Part of Mr Cypher's secondary education was at the Christian Brothers College where his best subject was English. At the age of 15 he started working. He served in the Citizens Military Forces from 17 to 24 years of age. On completing an apprenticeship in Machine Composing, he worked in the graphic arts and newspaper industry for 28 years. After that he studied horticulture at a technical college. At the same time he ran his own gardening maintenance company until 1994. For the last 15 years he has been Please turn to Page 2

Catholic Education Office groundsman Chris Cypher pauses for a moment during the daily routine of maintaining and caring for the beautiful surroundings of the state's Catholic e ducation Centre. His poetry is heavily inspired by nature, and the rhythms and cadences of the natural world. The first book of his collected poetry is a selfpublished volume simply entitled The Gardener's Prayer. An initial print run of 100 copies was quickly sold out among colleagues at the CEO and he is now planning a second modest print run for a wider audience. While on assignment Record p hotographer Justine S tevens caught bees gathering nectar among the4 garden's flowers, at right. Such sights are the kind that inspire Mr Cypher to verse.

appoints Sale bishop

AFTER an 18-month wait, Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Auxiliary Bishop Christopher (pictured above) of Prowse Melbourne as the eighth Catholic Bishop of Sale. The news was announced by the Vatican last week and communicated in Australia by the Apostolic Nuncio (the Pope's personal representative to the Australian people) in Canberra, Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto. Bishop Prowse succeeds Bishop Jeremiah Coffey who retired 18 months ago. Bishop Prowse, 55, was born in Melbourne. He is a former Vicar General of Melbourne and was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Melbourne in 2003. The Solemn Mass and Liturgical Reception of Bishop Prowse will take place at St Mary's Cathedral, Sale, at 2pm on Wednesday, July 15.

Knights seek collaborators in Crusade AS the Year for Priests called by Pope Benedict commences, the Pope has imparted an Apostolic Blessing to Australians who participate in the third Knights of the Southern Cross National Prayer Crusade for Vocations, which will take place from September 6 to November 28. In his blessing, the Holy Father acknowledges the commitment of the Australian national laymen's body "to the Church and the ministry of the priests." The Prayer Crusade aims to pray for an increase in all vocations, but especially more priests and deacons - and for muchneeded military chaplains for the Australian Defence Force, whose Catholic members and their fami Please turn to Page 4

Page 2

June 24 2009, The Record

THE PARISH

EDITOR Peter Rosengren cathrec@iinet.net.au

Nature inspires Centre's shy poet Continuedfrom Page 1

JOURNALISTS Anthony Barich abarich@therecord.com.au reidyrec@iinet.net.au Mark Reidy Robert Hiini rthiini@gmail.com PRODUCTION & ADVERTISING Justine Stevens production@therecord.com.au ACCOUNTS Cathy Baguley recaccounts@iinet.net.au ADMINISTRATION Bibiana Kwaramba administration@therecord. com.au BOOKSHOP Caroline Radelic bookshop@therecord.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS Debbie Warner Karen & Derek Boylen Anna Krohn Catherine Parish Fr Flader John Heard Christopher West Bronia Karniewicz Guy Crouchback

The Record PO Box 75, Leederville, WA 6902 587 Newcastle St, West Perth Tel: (08) 9227 7080, Fax: (08) 9227 7087 Website: www.therecord.com.au The Record is a weekly publication distributed throughout the parishes of the dioceses of Western Australia and by subscription. The Record is printed by Rural Press Printing Mandurah and distributed via Australia Post and CTI Couriers.

SAINT OF THE WEEK

Bernardino Realino 1530-1616 July 2 A nobleman in Capri, Italy, Bernardino received a Christian education at home, then studied medicine and law at the University of Bologna. After being summoned to work in Naples in 1554, he realized he had a religious vocation and joined the Society of Jesus. He was ordained in 1567 and served for three years in Naples, before being sent to I,ecce, where he ministered for the rest of his life. He was a well-known confessor, teacher and apostolic worker, as well as the Jesuit rector and superior. The people he served in Lecce considered him a living saint.

C NS Saints

working at the Catholic Education Office. He has been married to wife Kay for 43 years, has five children and six grandchildren. He is a Special Minister and a Christian Life Group member. "The Gardener's Prayer" is his first book of poetry. Mr Cypher freely admits he would have destroyed his poetry if it were not for the encouragement of his peers to publish it, adding that up until publishing his wife was unaware that he even wrote poetry. The secrecy seems to stem from the poet's bafflement at his own talent and awe of its source. "I cannot understand how I write what I write. The words I use I would not normally use," he said. Literary experts' opinions on his poetry are incomprehensible to him. He says neither the form of his poetry nor the topics are deliberately chosen. He has no explanation why the simplest things like a sunrise, a shadow or flower can become spiritually beautiful to him and worthy of free verse. Sitting in the afternoon sunlight, Mr Cypher mused, "I find it difficult to believe that God would talk to me out in the gardens. That is why it is a form of prayer because I am acknowledging Something greater then I am. It touches my soul." A friend's suggestion that his work is contemplative resonates with him. He is loath to call his work mystical as he believes that is only for saints. The malaise common to writers, artists and thinkers is not unknown to him either. He admits to bouts of melancholy stemming from physical tiredness or lack of inspiration from his daily activities. He then alludes to something more. "Sometimes I think that I have lost God. You're on your own, relying on yourself," he said. Mr Cypher described how the bereft feeling left him when the words "poured" down on paper. He recounted the experience of a light beam he saw on the grounds that he captured in one of his poems. "It was just as if God had sent this message down on the earth.I thought that if this was God talking to me it was very frightening because I didn't think he could talk to me in the open with such extraordinary beauty," he said. "Extraordinary" and "awesome" are two words that pepper Mr Cypher's conversation. He conceded his writings that encapsulate his childlike won-

Catholic Education Office groundsman Chris Cypher has translated the wonder he experiences of nature's beauty into poetry. PHOTO: JUSTINE STEVENS

der of nature and its origin could be the work of the Holy Spirit. However, in the same breath he expressed a fear that others might think he was on an ego trip if he said so. Those who know him better would disagree. Fellow member of the Christian Life Group and close friend for forty years Des Hunter said, "Chris is a man with passion and a willingness to reach out to those less fortunate, especially those with disabilities. The gift I believe Chris has as a poet is that of spontaneous and inspired writing." When I asked Mr Cypher to identify one of his favourite poems he singles out "Angel in the park." He remembers the day he wrote it distinctly and thinks it was a supernatural experience. "I could have sworn black and blue there was a presence, an angel in the park with me. It was like a golden shadow following me around and it was potent:' He is aware that people may not believe him but is resolute in his belief. He has had similar experiences of which he would be skeptical were they not backed by others. "In a lot of instances I would say that there was a presence with me. In fact, I have had people visit these grounds and say, "This is where you wrote this poem." I'd say, "That's right." And they would say, "Well, there is a spirit here." A spider's web running from a huge tree to the ground was the source of his inspiration for "Silver Light." The words hark back to his wonder at the greatness of God as the poet writes: What imagination to join

this world By shimmering thread to the heavens Reaching trees giving praise to your awesome creativeness." Although the main source of his inspiration is the beautiful grounds of the Catholic Education Centre, it does go beyond. Out in the Pilbara he has been captivated by its red dirt. "It is an insight into something spiritual. It has an intensity that gets to me. Sometimes I am lucky and I can translate it in words," he said. One gets the impression that sometimes his gift for words can be a burden. When he first started writing he recalls being "frightened" by the compulsion to write. Even now he expresses the fear that perhaps the poetry is the result of his imagination.

As a youth Chris Cypher saw God as a tyrant, now, ha says, ha taat him as "awasomaly generous," BHOf

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the self doubt is only fleeting but there is a residual feeling of frustration. "Something tells me there is a greater power sending me some message but I don't know what the message is. I resist it," he admitted. People have accused him of being "too intense" and advised him to "calm down:' He acknowledges with a laugh that people might think he was crazy because they don't understand his writings. Conversely, he has received a lot of positive feedback regarding his poetry. One reader described his work and Mr Cypher himself to be a revelation." One of his fears has been largely conquered, not without effort on his part. He believes that he is on better terms with God whom he ironically saw as a tyrant in his youth. Now he sees the Creator as being awesomely generous" to him. He alludes to being given a second chance at life possibly referring to the major heart surgery he had to remove six blockages. For Mr Cypher this is confirmation that God is with him. He makes no claim to being a religious person despite his sensitivity to the mystical side of life. A practical man he concludes the interview in a matter of fact manner. "A lot of dam hard work has gone into understanding what my life is about. I guess part of the phenomenon of this experience is that it has given me more meaning to life. It makes me see that the struggles of daily life can be overcome by seeing something beautiful," he said. With that he returns to the gardens for work and contemplation.

OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS 2009 JUNE 26

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Parish Visitation, Thornlie - Archbishop Hickey Parish Visitation, Midland - Bishop Sproxton

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June 24 2009, The Record

Page 3

THE PARISH

Expert delivers in Broome

Ticket giveaway We have been given two double passes to the ninth season of Pipe Organ Plus at the Basilica of St Patrick on Sunday July 5 at 2.30pm. Organist Dominic Perissinotto will be joined by cellist Clare

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Ukranian expert delivers an authentic icon for the Kimberley. • By Robert Hiini

AN icon painted by artist and world iconography expert Roman Vasylyk was unveiled in Broome's Our Lady of Peace Cathedral on Sunday June 7. Broome Bishop, Christopher Saunders, unveiled the icon of Our Lady of Peace after a Mass, having invited the Ukrainian Professor, with his interpreter Bohdan Mykytiuk, to paint and teach in the diocese. While in Broome, the Professor shared his talents and knowledge with eight St Mary's College students, teaching them the meaning inherent in an icon's elements before helping them with "writing" their own. He also gave a public lecture on iconography at the University of Notre Dame's Broome Campus, reflecting on his life in Ukraine, where his brother, a bishop, and his father were imprisoned by the former communist regime for their religious belief. Professor Vasylyk was nineteen-years-old before he first met them upon their release. According to Professor Vasylyk, the preparation needed to write an icon is demanding, involving fasting, prayer and meditation. The

Clergy on the move in Perth Archbishop Barry Hickey has announced the following clergy appointments in his most recent ad clerum letter to clergy of the archdiocese. Fr Richard Rutkauskas has been appointed Parish Priest at Goomalling/Wongan Hills. Fr Rainier Fernandez has been appointed Parish Priest in

iconographer simply doesn't sit down and begin to paint; he prepares himself spiritually. Professor Vasylyk's icons are characterised by their architectural style and spirituality. He met extensively with parishioners and local people to discuss and gather inspiration for the icon incorporating elements of traditional Aboriginal art in its design. A media staffer for the diocese described the icon as 'a real spiritual treasure' and as 'a reflection of the Kimberley and the Catholic Church as one.'

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THE PARISH

Comp to teach kids the art of sensible consumption

"Consumer Protection Commissioner Anne Driscoll with the Co-ordinator of the Buy My Duck competition Ceire Smith"

WESTERN Australian Catholic schools are being urged to enter an innovative competition that encourages children to become more consumer savy. Consumer Protection's annual Buy My Duck competition for students, schools and teachers is offering $14,000 in prizes this year. Registrations are currently being called for. Consumer Protection Commissioner Anne Driscoll said the competition was asking primary and high school students to create "A Survival Guide to Shopping' for their peers, with a central theme of retail and mobile phones. "It is important that our children are well versed in consumer issues, and know their rights and responsibilities," the Commissioner said. "Even as youngsters, they are already computer and mobile phone users, and they need to be aware of issues such as contractual obligations and the way scammers use emails and SMS," Ms Driscoll said.

June 24 2009, The Record

"Over the last several years, this competition has gone a long way in empowering our young adults and children in the marketplace, and equipping them with good consumer knowledge and awareness that will stay with them into adulthood," she said. Last year the Buy My Duck competition involved 300 students from throughout the State, presenting their projects in various mediums including movies, posters, power point presentations, radio scripts, advertisements and blogs. Organisers promise that all students who submit an entry, and all teachers who assist them, will receive a certificate of recognition. There are also significant individual and school prizes in the metropolitan and regional categories.

Youth teams converge on Corpus Christi Youth teams show them how its done WHILE it is well-known that business and pleasure do not mix, how about religion and a bit of pleasure? This is the approach of The National Evangelisation Team, or better known as NET, who along with two other Perth outreaches to youth - Youth Mission Team (YMT) and Youth Impact Team (YIT) - ran 'Reflection Day' programs for Corpus Christi College's Year 8-10 students on June 3. With affirming statements, engaging stories, wit and humor the teams provided an inspiring and motivational opportunity for understanding and discussion in a free flowing spiritual experience for the students at Corpus Christi College, Bateman. Anita Parker, Director of Catholic Youth Ministry Perth, and Catherine Gallo Martinez, were present to witness the energy and passion that the teams pour into their ministry. The ministry teams created a relaxed and casual atmosphere with their outgoing, energetic and passionate style, showing students that loving Christ is contagious. NET is an international and national group of young people who travel around Australia to inspire other youth to come closer to God. Their programs rely on each person's talents: from music to organizing, from acting to being familiar with Scripture. Their captivating programs and engaging style appeal to the faith-filled, to 'lapsed' Catholics and to a secular audience that has a burgeoning interest in spirituality. "It's an expression of truth, of communicating Christ in different ways, to different cultures and to different people:' one team member told us. Simon Keane, Director of Student Ministry at Corpus Christi College, said the reflection days were a great success."The presence of the Youth Teams enabled the students to experience the witness of Christian faith from young adults in a different way from other adults in their lives and from their teachers in Religious Education classes; Mr Keane said. The Youth Teams proved quite an inspiration and were appreciated by all." Each year-group concluded the day prayerfully with the celebration of Mass and the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation was available throughout the day.Year seven students had a "Petrus" experience, directed by the students' religious education teachers - an opportunity to reflect on the virtues of honesty and respect and to see St Peter as an exemplar for their lives. Year eight students worked on the theme of 'Hero Inside Yourself' conducted by

An international member of the National Evangelisation Team (NET) shares her passion for Christ with Corpus Christi College students.

Above, the members of the 2009 NET, who joined local teams in ministry - Youth Impact Team and the Youth Mission Team - for Corpus Christi's reflection day.

the YIT. The Youth Mission Team helped year nine students look at 'Being Disciples of Jesus' while year ten students workshopped 'Hands and Feet; Seeking Justice for All' conducted by NET. NET, YMT and Impact have resolved the problem of reaching young people by making real the example of Jesus. They find the mission of evangelisation a true vocation for their young adult lives. As NET team members often say, "it's not about me, it's all about Jesus". "If we do what we are called to do, we find fulfillment:' a NET organiser told us. "Evangelisation is a universal call for the Church, young people are not exempt. We are not meant to go through our faith journey by ourselves". For more information, visist www.cym.com.au

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the week in which they pray. All schools, colleges, parishes, Catholic organisations, retirement villages, individual Catholics and members of the ADF are invited to join. More than 7,000 participants have already registered. To take part in the KSC Prayer Crusade for Vocations, email Bob Perkins, National Executive Officer, Knights of the Southern Cross, at neo@ksca.org.au or call (02) 6247 2977 (Mon, Wed & Fri). Copies of the Registration Form can also be obtained from the National Website - www.ksca. org.au .

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June 24 2009, The Record

Page 5

THE PARISH

'Hope' abounds for upcoming conference The numbers at Catholic Youth Ministry events are on the up. • By Robert Hiini

THE outlook for Catholic Youth Ministry's upcoming "Hope" Conference looks good, with 100 young people attending their "Sunday Sesh" on June 21 at Holy Spirit Parish in City Beach. After an introduction of games, attendees heard from veteran youth minister and recent Papal Award recipient Fr John O'Reilly who answered the question "Bread or Jesus?", explaining the doctrine of transubstantiation and competing theories throughout history. Participants got a chance to experience the reality of what they had learnt with 25 minutes of Eucharistic Adoration, featuring music and Scripture reading, following a DVD presentation from Lifeteen in the US. Catholic Youth Ministry are currently finalising the line-up of speakers at their World Youth Day anniversary conference - entitled 'Hope' after Pope Benedict XVI's second encyclical Spe Salvi or Saved in Hope - which will take place July 15 -19 at Chisholm Catholic College in Bedford. The conference for youth and young adults, from 15 years-ofage upwards, will feature talks from Archbishop Barry Hickey,

Fr John O'Reilly

Brothers in faith: Two partipants at Catholic Youth Ministry's "Sunday Sesh" at City Beach Parish on June 21 write-down PHOTO: CYM. their thoughts after a talk delivered by senior priest Fr John O'Reilly and 25 minutes of Adoration.

Auxiliary Bishop Don Sproxton, Bronia Karniewicz and other speakers in an event that CYM says will feature live music, games, stalls and giveaways. The conference will also include workshops facilitated by Caritas, the Respect Life Office, Young Vinnies and Vocations Director,

Fr Thai Vu, among others. The agency's Sunday Sesh initiative is held once a month at a north-ofthe-river parish and a south-ofthe-river parish over two consecutive weeks, with the last "southern" Sunday Sesh held at the Basilica of St Patrick, Fremantle on June 14. With the exception of last week's

event, the average attendance at CYM's Sunday Sesh events had been around 70. CYM's youth ministry worker, Olivia Lavis, described the crowd at their City Beach Sunday Sesh as "an interesting mesh of people from all over" with participants coming from the parishes of

Whitfords, North Beach and Mt Lawley among others. Olivia Lavis coordinates the northern parish event while her colleague Catherine Martinez who also doubles as CYM's media coordinator - organises the Sunday Sesh in southern parishes. Every month, both CYM staffers meet with parish representatives from their respecitve areas to provide formation and networking opportunities to parish youth leaders. All but 10 of the parishes in the north metropolitan area and 14 south of the river have nominated a youth representative for the meetings. To register for the Hope Conference or for more information on CYM events visit www.cym.com.au or phone 9422 7912.

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Last chance for St Paul indulgence The final opportunity to gain a plenary indulgence in the last days of the Year of St Paul is fast approaching. The Year of St Paul Indulgence will be granted in any church on Monday, June 29 and in designated churches only on Sunday, June 28. The designated churches for the Year of St Paul are: • St Paul's Church, Mt Lawley • Sts Peter and Paul Church, Redemptorist Monastery, Vincent St, North Perth • St Joachim's Pro-Cathedral, Shepperton Road, Victoria Park • St Simon Peter Church, Prendiville Ave, Ocean Reef • Basilica of St Patrick, Adelaide St, Fremantle • St Jerome's Church, cnr Rockingham Rd and Troode St, Munster • St Joseph's Church, cnr Gordon & Wellington Sts, Northam • St Mary's Church, cnr Brockman & Porter Sts, Kalgoorlie The usual conditions for obtaining a Plenary Indulgence apply. They are: I. Praying the Lord's Prayer and the Creed, cleansed by the Sacrament of Penance and nourished by Holy Communion. 2. Prayers for the intentions of the Holy Father. The Year of the Priest was proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI to begin on June 19, ending on June 19, 2010.

Ending poverty by visual installation Caritas will hold its interactive multimedia exhibition at the University of Notre Dame from July 2-20 - a joint initiative with the Federal Government's AusAID agency. Blueprint for a Better World is billed as an attempt to show Australians how working towards the eight Millenium Development Goals can eradicate Global poverty and injustice. It was launched at an event to commemorate the anniversary of National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week on May 26 in Auburn, Sydney, and has been touring the country ever since, having recently concluded in Bunbury. The exhibition features videos, photographs, visual installations and items donated by Caritas partner communities throughout the developing world and presents each goal as a blueprint for social change. The exhibition will also highlight the work of Caritas internationally in their programs aimed at providing relief and assistance to the world's poor. More information about the exhibition can be viewed at www.blueprintforabetterworld.com

Vocations conference comes to town The biennial Catholic Vocations Ministry Australia (CVMA) conference will take place in Perth from July 13 -17 at St Thomas More College, Crawley. 'The Coming of the Kingdom of God' will serve as the conference theme with guest speakers including film and television educator, Ken Kelso, Auxiliary Bishop of Melbourne, Tim Costelloe SDB, and Fr Carlos Massieu - a spiritual director from Mexico and promoter of the spirituality of Luisa Piccaretta. The conference is being organised by CVMA member-organisation, the West Australian Vocations Network (WAVN) and will be open to all engaged in vocations ministry and any persons with an interest in vocations ministry. Daily Mass and a set daily prayer time have been built into the conference schedule. For more information on the conference contact Sr Veronica McCluskie SGS on 02 9630 5620 or email office@catholicozvocations.org.au

June 24 2009, The Record

THE PARISH

O'Callahan to front church Police Commissioner is guest speaker. DOES A HOME-COOKED meal with a guest speaker offering "food for thought" sound like a recipe for success? The organisers of the annual "Food for Thought" YouthCARE ecumenical dinner, Fiona Mackenzie Round and Mary-Anne Reid certainly hope so. "Food for Thought" organizing committee are keen to increase the profile and fundraising capacity of this worthwhile event - and what better way to do that than to invite one of the best known names in WA to be guest speaker? WA Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan is not only a well known name, he also has strong ties to the hills. Having settled in Kalamunda with his family after emigrating from the UK in 1970, the Commissioner attended Kalamunda High School, and was a classmate of the current chaplain of Kalamunda Primary School, Stewart Jackson. Not sur.prisingly, Commissioner O'Callaghan attributes some of his success to his years growing up in Kalamunda, and has chosen to speak to the topic; "Climbing the Hill(s) to success; lessons from growing up in Kalamunda:'

For the past 15 years, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Lesmurdie has hosted an ecumenical dinner to raise funds for the chaplains working in local Government schools through the Kalamunda YouthCARE organisation. Local churches; St Barnabas, St Swithins, Kalamunda Uniting Church, Lesmurdie Baptist Church and the Church of Christ Lesmurdie, have all been enthusiastic supporters of this event over the years. This year the parents, friends and staff of all the local schools with chaplains are actively involved; Kalamunda and Lesmurdie Senior High Schools, Gooseberry, Kalamunda, Pickering Brook and Walliston Primary Schools. The organizers of "Food for Thought" see this event as a great opportunity for ecumenical outreach and community engagement for Our Lady of Lourdes Parish. "Support for this event has been fantastic" said Mary-Anne. " We have written to many local businesses asking for donations towards our silent auction and we have been overwhelmed by the response:' As a successful family man, policeman and now "top cop", the Commissioner is sure to offer some interesting and entertaining "food for thought". The dinner will take place at Mazenod College Gymnasium, Saturday 8 August,

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6.30 for 7.00pm start. Tickets are $25 per head and can be purchased through participating schools and local churches. Please phone Our Lady of Lourdes Parish for further details: 9291 6282.

Rain couldn't dent Geraldton celebration St Francis Xavier Parish Ministry Fair ON Sunday 24th May St Francis Xavier, Geraldton, held their Parish Ministry Fair to showcase the many ministries that quietly occur within the Parish. Due to threatening rain the many stalls and displays needed to be set up inside the Cathedral, providing much interest and colour. Luckily many were able to be in the areas where they normally meet, from the Christian Meditation Group in the crypt to the Divine Mercy in the garden sanctuary. The Cathedral Tours volunteers were available to lead people through the rich heritage of the Monsignor Hawes building and Ministry Coordinators and volunteers enthusiastically spoke about their different ministries. Eventually the sun shone through and the St Francis Choir sang beautifully to those who availed themselves of the morning tea and sausage sizzle. A Bouncy Castle was put to good use with children who had plenty of energy after sitting patiently through Mass and balloons made for a festive scene in and around the grounds of our majestic Cathedral. The Parish Stewardship Committee wishes to thank all of those who worked so hard to show everyone the many ministries available in the Parish which enables us all to care for each other in many ways through

Official denounces Roman condom move n By Carol Glatz

ROME (CNS) - Distributing condoms to teens in high schools in the Italian province of Rome trivializes sexuality and neglects the need to teach responsibility and respect, said the papal vicar for Rome. Cardinal Agostino Vallini, who governs the diocese in the name of the pope, criticized plans for public high schools to install machines that dispense prophylactics. "We deplore that this initiative could be defined as 'a courageous act" by government officials, he said in a statement released on June 19. Officials governing the province of Rome approved a motion June 18 to

A day to celebrate: While parents looked at the stalls showing the many ministries St Francis Xavier have on offer, local children got down to the real business of enjoying the fleeting sun.

launch a sexual education campaign in public high schools in an effort to promote the prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. In addition to the new sexual educational program, schools would be allowed to install machines that dispense condoms. Cardinal Vallini said the move to distribute condoms would "trivialize once more the issues of emotional affection, sexuality and the education of young people:' The Catholic Church insists that the correct path to take entails teaching people, especially the young, to be responsible in how they use their sexuality, "which is a gift of God's love, and to enrich one's own body and the other's" by understanding that love is a gift of self, he said. He said the Catholic community would continue to advocate that schools and other educational institutions someday decide to "dedicate themselves to enlightening young people to distrust shortcuts that often lead to undervaluing life."

A LIFE OF PRAYER ... are you called to the Benedictine l (fe ofd/vinepraise andEucharistic prayerfor the Church?

TYBURN NUNS Contact the: Rev Mother Cyril, OSB, Tyburn Priory, 325 Garfield Road, Riverstone, NSW 2765 www.tyburnconvent.org.uk the Parish the Nation the World

June 24 2009, The Record

THE PARISH

Page 7

Catholic schools 'made Fulfilled: local association Jesus known' in 2008 sends two Sisters out to Kenya to serve the poor The Catholic Education Commission of WA releases its annual report

• By Robert Hiini

THE Catholic Education Commission of Western Australia (CECWA) has released its annual report for 2008 chronicling the actions and achievements of Catholic Education in WA last year. The report details the Catholic education sector's involvement in World Youth Day and lists among the year's highlights the development and launch of the Leadership Framework for Catholic Education, the implementation of its 2008-2012 strategic plan and its 2008 - 2011 evangelisation plan and the introduction of early childhood initiatives for its inaugural intake of three-year-olds (126 CEO schools in WA had kindergarten classes last year). In 2008 there were 4624 kindergarten students, 4699 pre-primary students, 31,967 primary school students and 27 582, secondary school students across CEOWA's 158 schools. The Catholic education sector employed 9806 people with 4199 full-time equivalent teachers who, the report says, were awarded the same salary increases as teachers in public schools with a focus on ensuring that teaching in Catholic schools remains attractive. According to the report, about 900 long service leave claims were processed while Theological courses for accreditation to work in Catholic schools netted 2185 participants throughout WA. Catholic schools in WA received $583.4 million dollars in recurrent income in 2007, the most recent year of available data when the report was prepared. Of that, $440.9 million came from State and Federal Governments and $106.9 million from tuition fees or $1635 per pupil. Total recurrent expenditure in the same year was $553.7 million, with $76.8 million being spent on capital expenditure. In 2008, the Catholic sector received, amongst other monies, $6.39 million in

Australian Government Capital Grants, $7.08 million in the Investing in Our Schools program, and $27.35 million in State Government Low Interest Loans. Payments of $285.5 million were made for salaries, with an additional $7 million being made in casual relief salary payments. In the report's opening remarks, Commission Chair, Monsignor Michael Keating describes Catholic schools as being 'a vital part of the Church's efforts to make Jesus better known, loved and followed' adding that, throughout his years of involvement, the Catholic education system has gone 'from strength to strength.' Ron Dullard, Director of the Catholic Education Office of WA (CEOWA), in his remarks, says that the esteem in which the Catholic system is held is a source of pride for the CEOWA. 'This esteem grows out of evidence not only of academic excellence but students who are compassionate, caring individuals with a commitment to their faith and to responsible citizenship,' Mr Dullard writes. According to the report, the CEOWNs Evangelisation Plan provided opportunities last year for staff to participate in Christian meditation, fundraising events and a retreat at New Norcia as well as Special Minister of the Eucharist and Senior Altar Server training. The CECWA has up to 17 members, as appointed from groups involved in Catholic education by WA's bishops, and six standing committees dealing with Aboriginal education, finance, religious education, personnel, resourcing and relevant issues impacting on children in Catholic schools. CECWNs policy decisions are implemented by the CEOWA in Perth and its regional offices in Broome, Bunbury and Geraldton. The CEO negotiates arrangements with governments and administers government-funded programs. The 2008 annual report and strategic planning documents can be found at the Catholic Education Office's website www.ceo.wa.edu.au

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Ready for action: Fr Douglas Rowe, centre, and the members of his Patrist religious community, from left, Br Israel Quint SFP, Sr January Rebutazo SFP, Sr Ailene Siano SFP, Sr Daryl Grace Paluca SFP and Br Garner Vergara SFP. PHOTO: ROBERT HUN'

Religious from Perth-based association to work at isolated mission. • By Robert Hiini

FR DOUGLAS Rowe SFP accompanied two Sisters from his feldgling Religious community, the Patrists, to Kenya this week as they prepare to answer a request made by a Kenyan bishop during last year's World Youth Day. Sr January Rebutazo SFP, from their house in Midland, and Sr Luzviminda Malco, from their house in the Philippines, will become permanent pastoral workers at an isolated mission in the Meru Diocese. The Most Rev Salesius Mugambi met Fr Rowe when he was visiting Perth for the Days in Diocese week prior to the Sydney event and asked if he would consider sending Religious to minister to some of his most isolated and impoverished people. The mission consists of the parish church and presbytery, small primary and seconday boarding schools, and a dispensery. There is no housing for miles around. Sr January, who visited the site in October 2008 as their accomodation was being built, says that the isolated situation of the parish mission is common, with people travelling up to 100 kilometres to get to Sunday Mass.

Collision with reality IN 2004 Professor Margaret Battin of the University of Utah wrote in her book on euthanasia: "We firmly believe that physician-assisted death should be one - not the only one, but one - of the lastresort options available to a patient facing a hard death. "We agree that these options should include high dose pain medication if needed, cessation of life-sustaining therapy, voluntary cessation of eating and drinking, and terminal sedation." That was in 2004. On November 14 last year, her husband, Brooke Hopkins, a retired English professor at the same university, collided with another bicyclist and broke his neck. He is now paralysed from the neck down. It gave his wife a different perspective on end-of-life care. As she told the Salt Lake Tribune, it "has presented me more than an intellectual challenge to the views I've been defending over the years. It is a

The women of the mission specifically requested that the Religious they received were female - the Parish Priest and administrator being men - to be able to attend to intimate personal, social and cultural needs. The two Religious will also work in the schools amongst the boarding students. One of the first things they will do is help to complete the building of their accomodation at the mission which remains unfinished. Sr January told The Record several days before the party flew out of Perth on Juni 23 that while being slightly daunted by the prospect of living and working in an isolated area of a new country, she looked forward to serving the people there. The Patrist Societies of the Sons/ Daughters of God the Father, continue to thrive at their Midland house, with two fully-professed Sisters and two Brothers who are studying at St Charles Seminary to become priests, describing themselves as 'an active-contemplative association with a strong emphasis on evangelisation: Fr Rowe founded the Partrist Societies in 1999 after 30 years service as a Jesuit priest in his native India. They have been in Perth since 2005 when Fr Rowe was incardinated to the Archdiocese and continue to promote their special emphasis on knowing and loving God the Father, through retreats and bible studies throughout Perth.

deeply personal, profoundly self-confronting challenge." Battin knew that her husband would want to live, even if he were paralyzed, and she respected his choice from the moment of the accident. In fact, he told the Tribune that even in his darkest moments, he had a fierce desire to live, seeing his limitations as an "adventure." Within a few days of the accident her family had created a blog where they pass on news of his progress and reflect upon living with disability. Battin is still teaching medical students. When one of them said that life with a feeding tube and ventilator was not worthwhile, she reflected that her beloved husband owed his life to them. "Part of me wants to go back and look again at anything I've ever written," she says. "I don t know whether I'd tear it all up. I don't even know how I would make it more nuanced in academic presentation, 'cause there's no way to explain it." — Salt Lake Tribune, June 2

Page 8

The Year of the Priest for laity

he Year of the Priest is with us, and priests can look forward to numerous books, exhortations, conferences, seminars, retreats, gatherings and other opportunities to grow in their priesthood, which is to grow in persona Christi, in the person of Christ. It is also an opportunity for lay people to grow in our understanding of and respect for priests. A good starting point is never to think, say, or accept from others the comment "they (priests) are only human". They are not. They are human, of course, with all the human potential to be bad-tempered, poor communicators, self-centred, lazy, domineering, kind, gentle, wise and helpful - all those human characteristics that we all have to work so hard to avoid or to develop as the case may be. But they are not 'only human'. They are more than that. They are humans who have been given extraordinary gifts by the Lord our God, gifts that exceed the human capacity to develop, gifts that belong to God Himself and can only be exercised by a man who stands in persona Christi, in the person of Christ. Our faith is built on a mountain of paradoxes - three persons in one God; saved by one who is both God and man; Mary, Virgin and Mother; creatures with free will; a Church which is the fullness of Christ - and priests are one of these paradoxes, men who can exercise the power of God. As lay people, we honour this paradox first by praying for priests that the frailty of their humanity will not weaken the power of their priesthood, and second by receiving and honouring the gifts they give us by the power God has PO Box 75 given them. Leederville, WA 6902 The first of these great powcathrec@iinet.net.au ers is the power to consecrate the Eucharist, the power to bring the Tel: (08) 9227 7080 body and blood of Jesus onto the Fax: (08) 9227 7087 altar and to present Him to us in Holy Communion. This is a power that even the Archangels have not been given, and which Mary herself does not exercise. Mary, of course, produced Jesus and gave him to the world, body, blood, soul and divinity, and then stood by him and shared the great sacrifice offered on the Cross, but she, like Jesus, has no need to repeat that sacrifice. The second great gift Jesus has given to priests to exercise is the power to forgive sins. It was the first gift he gave to the Apostles after the Resurrection when he said to them, 'receive ye the Holy Spirit, whose sins you shall forgive they are forgiven them, and whose sins you shall retain they are retained: It is one of the mysteries of human life that even Catholics who have experienced the peace of forgiveness and the joy of communion have abandoned belief in these gifts, or have drifted away from them, or have decided they don't have time for them. Many also have experienced the persistence of God's love and have returned to the gifts they receive from priests. It often seems that the expression 'they (priests) are only human' is a mechanism for maintaining the absence when faith and reason would have it otherwise. Perhaps it might help if we examined the sort of thing Jesus has done to show his love for priests, especially those who are struggling. There have been more than 100 miracles in which the appearance of bread and wine in the Eucharist have given way to visual or physical evidence of the presence of Jesus. Many of these miracles have been performed to reinforce the faith of priests who were struggling with the belief that the consecration really does bring us the body and blood of Christ. One of the most famous of these occurred in the town of Lanciano in Italy in 750. A monastic priest was suffering from doubt about the real presence and was startled to find one day that as he said the words of consecration, the bread turned to flesh and the wine to blood. Everything was visible to those in attendance. The flesh is still intact and the wine is divided into five unequal parts which together have the exact same weight as each one does separately. The miracle of Lanciano gained new prominence in the 1970s when two sets of tests were performed on the relics. The first set were conducted by Dr Edward Linoli, a professor of anatomy, histology, chemistry and clinical microscopy. His results were published in a scientific journal, The Sclavo Notebooks in Diagnostics, Collection#3, 1971, and revealed that the flesh was human heart muscle; the miraculous blood was human blood only; both were of human blood type AB (the same as the man in the Shroud, and the most common type in Middle Eastern populations); the proteins in the blood occurred in the same proportions as in normal blood; and there was no trace of embalming or other salt infiltrations. Publication aroused intense scientific interest around the world. In 1973, the Advisory Body of the World Health Organisation appointed a medical commission to check Professor Linoli's findings. Their work lasted 15 months and included 500 tests. Their results were published by WHO and the UN in December 1976 in New York and Geneva. They confirmed all of Dr Linoli's findings and reported that the tissue was living tissue because it responded rapidly to the tests in the way living tissue would. True to its scientific limitations, the commission reported it was impossible to give an explanation. The best reason for receiving the Eucharist, forgiveness of sins or any other gifts from our priests is faith in the word of Jesus and His Church. However, it is useful to be able to give to those who need it this evidence of a miracle that has now been alive for 1259 years. It may give them a rational foundation for approaching the sacraments in faith. Throughout this Year of the Priest, let us live the paradox to the full so that we may gain maximum benefit from the divine gifts they give us and so that they may gain whatever strength they need in their humanity from our prayers, our respect and our support.

THE RECORD

June 24 2009, The Record

LETTERS The power of prayer

would like to share an absolute miracle that I have experienced in my life. When I was 3 months pregnant I experienced some very serious complications and was told that if! continued the pregnancy the doctors may have to deliver the baby very premature which meant the baby could have been multiple handicapped. If I managed to get past the very premature stage, there was still a high risk that my baby would have extremely underdeveloped lungs - if too extreme it meant that even if I could carry the baby to full-term I could still lose the baby at birth. The doctors said the chances of the baby surviving at all were at best 18%. I was advised that because I was only 3 months pregnant it may be best for the baby and for myself to not continue. The doctor said it would be extremely difficult to go through the whole pregnancy knowing that there was only an 18% chance. My husband and I were devastated. It was the most difficult time in our life. We were scared about all the possibilities. We could understand the doctors' advice with our heads, but as a mother my heart didn't want to give up on our child. We kept going we prayed for a miracle, as did our close fam-

A battle not forgotten

ily and friends and as time went on many more people prayed, in the end well over 100, most of whom I do not even know. We had fortnightly ultrasound and the comments got progressively worse. At 22 weeks we thought we'd lost the baby. We kept praying. I was on strict bed rest for 5 months but I was blessed to attend a Healing Mass. It was a very stressful and worrying 5 months, but the Holy Spirit really helped me. I was hospitalized for the last 13 weeks of the pregnancy.Ihad even more time to pray, to beg God for a miracle, to search my soul, to read the bible like never before in my life, to really receive God's messages and promises from His word, and God was true to His word. At 8 months my little girl was born - she is now 3 months old and is a beautiful, healthy, strong girl. I've had to stop myself from crying every time I think of the miraculous gift God has given me.I am writing this to say that it is only by the grace of God that my child is here (1Sam 1:27) Pray in faith, even on the days when your faith is as small as a mustard seed; ask and you shall receive (Mathew 7: 8, 17:20, 21:22) Thank you Heavenly Father, miracle prayer, Infant Jesus, St Gerard Majella, St Jude, St Anthony, Mother Mary, Our Lady of Fatima, Our Lady of Lourdes and all those who prayed. I am eternally NAME WITHELD ON REQUEST grateful.

A change of Mass-times?

have been a subscriber to The al Colebatch is to be conRecord for many years, coming gratulated for his timely through our Parish, and now reminder and expert analthrough our newsagency. ysis of Chesterton's great poem, In the last six months I have The Ballad of The White Horse been busy moving, so haven't had (Record, 17/9/09) - the more valutime to read many of them, but able since Colebatch himself is a saving them up to have a good major Australian poet. But even in read, so maybe I'm a bit behind on his lengthy review of the Ignatius the news. Press reprint it is impossible to Also the practice of placing include all but a few details of the Mass Times throughout the State poem, and inevitably errors must does not seem to have continued creep in. these last couple of years. The village close to the preI always looked forward to that historic carving of the horse in the page, and would keep it in my downland turf is Uffington, not metro map book for any reference Edington, and is, coincidentally to find Mass when in the city. and appropriately, an area of the If you could give me good explacountry where race horses are now nations for this change, I would bred and trained. appreciate it. The most famous and most quoted stanza in the poem is first Marj Delane uttered by the visionary Blessed Koorda Virgin when she warns Alfred that his struggles will not be easy. (And Ed: You are quite right: we should repeated by Alfred when he rallies print Mass times annually, and we his troops.) shall do so in the near future. It was a stanza made doubly famous in World War II when Churchill quoted it in one of his speeches, warning the British people of the threat of invasion from that other enemy across the Channel. It is a stanza with special pertinence for struggling Christians I really think that "The Media" facing attack and secularism today: needs to restrain itself (in all The Vision warns a dispirited its forms) from giving "pubAlfred: lic scandal" to impressionable young people , especially children, "I tell you naught for your com- by the lurid, sensationalist pubfort, lishing/airing of various sordid Yea, naught for your desire, and violent goings-on in the sleazy Save that the sky grows darker yet lives of some people, even if they And the sea rises higher" are so-called famous or rich. Remember the famous words That part of the poem entitled "he that shall scandalize one of 'The Vision of The King' is pierc- these little ones that believe in ingly moving and the Vision's me, it were better for him that a words resound with Catholic wis- millstone should be hanged about dom: (It is worth remembering his neck and that he should be that Chesterton wrote the poem 16 drowned in the depth of the sea". years before he formally became a Such things should be reported Catholic). in a non-prominent page or aired after children's bed time. "The gates of heaven are lightly M.J. Gonzalez locked, Willetton We do not guard our gold, Men may uproot where worlds begin, Or read the name of the nameless sin; But if he fails or if he win ed Watt's letter re America's To no good man is told." President (May 20) said it all in no uncertain manner; in down-to-earth terms he said it Tony Evans as it is. Another letter stated that Vice-President, Australian Obama is a sincere, honest man. Chesterton Society There's no doubt about that. He East Fremantle has made no secret of his views

With fame comes responsibility

Watt on Obama

and is 'sincerely' carrying them out, as promised. The Democrats, who chose him as their "spokesperson", have always had these intentions and carried them out, so, with his gift of rhetoric, plus sense of drama and timing, he was the perfect choice. (It was only George W. Bush who reversed these laws for the time he was in office). What astounded me was that 54 per cent of Catholics voted for him, knowing his stated intentions. Were they carried away by sentimentality - i.e. first Black President or perhaps fed-up with the Iraq war? Who knows? We have always been taught as Christians to "Love the sinner and hate the sin," "There but for the Grace of God, so I"..."Only the Maker of a soul can judge" and so on. All are true but as well as praying for these misguided people, we are surely expected to assess such disastrous policies and, as voters, act accordingly. At the risk of sounding sanctimonious, should we not be looking at our own backyard? For years we have been using taxpayers' money to fund 'abortions on demand, including lateterm and partial-birth abortions - if a panel of doctors decide it is necessary. Despite the horrific number of innocent lives destroyed in this country, including our own State, there seems to be very few protests, except for occasional largely Christian rallies at Palriament House (God bless them) - at which Catholics in the main are conspicuous by their absence. Even the Archbishop sends a representative if he cannot attend. So, who are we to point the fingers at America when we consider our own responsibilities - and failures? M Prandford East Perth For more Letters please turn to Page 19

June 24 2009, The Record

He almost never made it to ordination because he was regarded as too simple and uneducated. Many of his contemporaries thought he didn't have what it takes to be a priest. His ordination certificate said he was not allowed to hear confessions. But this astonishing figure is not only the patron of all Parish Priests; Pope Benedict XVI has made him the patron of all Priests. In the Year for Priests we can an learn from the likely failure who turned out to be..

THE RECORD VISTA

a spiritual Getting to know the Cure of Ars • by Fr John Jay Hughes*

EAN MARIE BAPTISTE VIANNEY was born on May 8, 1786, three years before the world would collapse into the chaos of the French Revolution. His schooling did not start until he . nine. It lasted only three years. When Jean was eleven, an underground priest stopped at the Vianney family farm. When he asked Jean how long it had been since his last confession, Jean said he had never received that sacrament. "We can take care of that right away," the priest said. When Jean had confessed, he heard for the first time the words that he would later speak more often than any priest thereafter, until the Italian Capuchin Padre Pio in the 20th century: Ego te absolve... "I absolve you of all your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." Jean's First Communion followed in 1799, secretly in the local manor house, with hay wagons drawn up before the door, to prevent a sudden raid. "I was there," Jean's sister recalled later. "My brother was so happy that he didn't want to leave the room." As he moved through his teens, Jean spent what time he could snatch from his farm work in prayer. Increasingly, he felt drawn to the idea of priesthood. His mother was supportive, but not his father. Jean was needed on the farm, he said; and where was the money to finance his son's studies? When Jean was approaching 20, a remarkable parish priest, the Abbe Balley, started to tutor Jean, with small success. Perhaps he should return to the only thing he really knew, Jean told his tutor - work on the family farm. Impressed by his pupil's deep piety Bailey sent Jean on pilgrimage to the shrine of a local saint. On his return he made modest progress in Latin, permitting his tutor to hope that Jean might yet be admitted to seminary. In 1807 Jean, now 21, was confirmed, taking the name Baptiste, in honor of John the Baptist. Two years later Jean received a fresh setback: a draft notice ordering him to report for military duty. Though already 23, the prospect of army life brought about a collapse that sent him for six weeks to a military hospital. Ordered to catch up with his regiment, underway to Napoleon's war in Spain, Jean fell in with a deserter, who persuaded him to seek refuge with a family that was already sheltering several deserters. Jean hid out with them for more than a year, until a general amnesty enabled him to go home. His mother died shortly after his return. For the rest of his life, Jean would remain grateful to her for believing in his priest-

ly vocation. After Easter 1811, , Abbe Bailey arranged for Jean to t receive tonsure, which made him technically a cleric. Not until November 1812 could Jean enter the seminary. Unable to understand the Latin textbook, he was put into a special class where the teaching was in French. Even there he was hardly able to follow the teacher. Despite this, the Abbe Batley got Jean admitted to the major seminary at Lyon in October 1813. Even with tutoring from a fellow student, he understood so little that the authorities sent him home at Easter 1814 with instructions not to return. Devastated by this final rejection, Vianney decided to become a Christian Brother. Abbe Bailey vetoed this plan and proceeded to tutor Jean with a basic handbook in French, a kind of Catholicism for Dummies. Using all his influence with the authorities, Bailey managed to get Vianney ordained subdeacon on July 2, 1814, and deacon a year later. On August 13, 1815, Vianney finally attained the goal: He was ordained priest in the seminary chapel at Grenoble, alone. There he celebrated his first Mass the next day, still alone save two for a rmy c haplains

who were celebrating at neighboring altars. His ordination certificate stated that he was not to hear confessions. His first assignment was as curate to Abbe Bailey, but his mentor died on December 17, 1817. Vianney would use his shaving mirror for the rest of his life, because, he said, "it had reflected his face." In February 1818, Vianney was assigned to the village of Ars. Too small to be a parish in its own right, it seemed to the authorities just right for a man of such meager abilities. The French Revolution had devastated church life. With four taverns to serve the 60 houses in Ars, few people went to church. Fifteen years previously, the parish priest

had written in a remarkably candid report to the diocese that rtiost of the children in the parish "have little to distinguish them from animals but their baptism." To convert his flock, Vianney began a routine of prayer and penance that he would maintain all his life. Up long before dawn, he would spend much of the day in church. His diet consisted mostly of boiled potatoes, often days old and moldy. When he was not praying in the church, he was in the sacristy working for hours at his sermon preparation, which in these early years consisted of copying out lengthy passages from books in his modest personal library. He would then attempt to memo-

rise what he had written. Given his weak memory, it is not surprising that Vianney sometimes broke down in the pulpit, unable to remember what he had prepared. In time, however, he began to improvise - and his preaching improved. What he said came from his heart, supported by the hours he spent in prayer. The content of his sermons was heavily hortatory and moralistic: condemnations of drinking and dancing. When, after five years in the parish, he was able to add to the church a chapel to St. John the Baptist, it displayed a sign saying: "His head was the prize for a dance." In his early years in Ars, Vianney's small Please turn to Vista 2

VISTA 2

VISTA 3

June 24 2009 The Record

Bestowal of Pontifical medals honours the lives - and labours - of 11Perth priests Numerous Perth clergy gathered at St Charles Seminary recently to enjoy a special moment for 11 of their brothers in arms. ON the eve of the special Year for Priests called by Pope Benedict XVI Archbishop Barry Hickey presided over the bestowal of Papal awards on 11 priests in the Archdiocese. The Croce Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (Cross for the Church and Pontiff) award - founded by Pope Leo XIII in 1888 - was given to the men to mark their fiftieth priestly jubilee. Between the recipients there was at least 550 years of priestly experience. The event took place in the the chapel of St Charles Seminary in Guildford following afternoon tea on June 18 - the vigil of the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus and the 150th anniversary of the death of St John Vianney, patron saint of priests. Clergy and seminarians from St Charles and Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Morley gathered for Pontifical Sung Vespers to celebrate the Year of the Priest that was to begin the following day. Ten of the Papal Award recipients were present: Fathers Henry Finbarr Walsh, Maurice Toop, John O'Reilly, Eugene McGrath, Anton Hesse, Brian Harris, Michael Casey, Julian Carrasco, Thomas Byrne and Mgr Peter McCrann. Fr Thomas Gaine was absent in Ireland. Archbishop Hickey said that the group was the first to receive the award but more would be forthcoming. He thanked and congratulated the men for their service and prayed that they continued to grow in faithfulness and prayer. - ROBERT HIINI

The golden boys: Recipients of the Papal medal Croce pro Ecclesia et Pontifice (the Cross for the Church and the Pontiff) stand with Archbishop Barry Hickey & they are watched by fellow presbyters and seminarians of the Archdiocese of Perth. Pictured, from left to right are: Fathers Finbarr Walsh, Maurice Toop (obscured by Fr Walsh), John O'Reilly, Eugene McGErth, Monsignor Peter McCrann, Henry Byrne, Archbishop Hickey, Julian Carrasco (to rear of Archbishop), Anton Hesse, Brian Harris and Michael Casey. PHOTO: ROBERT HIINI

Standing room only: the occasion was celebrated not only by clergy but those on the way to lives as priests of the Roman Catholic Church, including seminarians from St Charles and the Redemptoris Mater Neocatechumenal Seminary in Morley, who participated standing outside on the seminary verandah. Other photos, in order: recipient Monsignor Peter McCrann chats with Perth Vicar General Mgr. Brian O'Loughlin, while recipients pose for the cameras with Archbishop Hickey. PHOTOS. ROBERT HIINI

Fathers Finbarr Walsh, Maurice Toop, John O'Reilly, Eugene McGrath and Monsignor Peter McCrann participate in the ceremony held at St Charles Seminary on June 18. Together with their fellow recipients of papal awards, including Fr Thomas Gaine who was in Ireland at the time, their collective experience as priests PHOTO: ROBERT HIINI amounts to more than half a millenium.

Happy moment: Seminarian Brennan Sia, above, who will shortly depart for studies at the Pontifical North American College in Rome chats with Fr John O'Reilly following the ceremony at St Charles. Other photos, .rt order: Archbishop Barry Hickey talks to fellow priests about the priesthood and those receiving the papal medals; Ballajura Parish Priest Fr John Jegorow gets a close inspection of Fr Eugene McGrath's medal; PHOTOS* ROBERT HIINI aid Fathers Henry Byrne and Julian Carrasco hold their after the conclusion of the ceremonies.

In the simple andhumble heart of StJohn Vianney,patron ()fallpriests,it was always Springtime. 0

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continued from Vista 1 flock heard far more stern warnings than good news. He started catechism lessons for children and postponed First Communion for those who would not learn. Adults who continued to drink and dance despite his warnings were refused absolution. Such good news as there was in his early preaching was centred on the Blessed Sacrament. "I have hardly ever heard him teach without reference to the Real Presence," a parishioner said later. "As soon as you have received God," Vianney told his flock, "a great joy fills your heart, then for several moments a sense of close union with him, and finally a feeling of well-being throughout your entire body." His parishioners recognised that these words reflected their pastor's personal experience. When, after only two years in Ars, he was promoted to a larger parish, people in Ars got the transfer cancelled. A year later, in 1821, Ars was made an independent parish, with Vianney given tenure for life as pastor. Opposition continued nonetheless. There were complaints to the bishop about Vianney's excessive severity. There were false charges that he was the father of a recently born illegitimate child in Ars, and a whispering cam-

paign from fellow priests based on little more than dislike of a colleague who was "different." For much of his priestly life, Vianney suffered from what has been called throughout Christian history invidia clericalis - clerical envy. It's no wonder, then, that he said at one point: "I do not like being a parish priest, but I very much like being a priest because I can say Mass." A jubilee declared by the Pope in 1826 brought many conversions in Ars and the surrounding area. People began travelling to Ars to confess to the eccentric but increasingly famous priest, enabling Vianney to say from the pulpit: "Ars is no longer Ars, it has changed!" To accommodate the growing crowds, he slept only three hours, rising after midnight so as to be in his confessional at one a.m. At six or seven, he would celebrate Mass; after a short break for his meagre breakfast, he would return to the sacristy for men's confessions, breaking off at ten to pray the Breviary. Then it was time for the children's catechism lesson. When this was finished he ate a sparse midday meal, consumed standing, dealt with mail, and visited the sick. Then it was back to the church for women's confessions until five, when he returned

briefly to his rectory, returning to the sacristy for men's confessions until half-past seven or eight, when he went into the pulpit to lead the rosary and evening devotions. Finally he retired to his bedroom, only to spend a good portion of the night in prayer. What was his secret? Part of it was his ability to read minds and souls. To a penitent who said he had not confessed for 40 years, Vianney said: "It is 44 years." A female cousin with whom he had boarded during his studies wondered, while visiting Ars in 1833, whether she could confess to a relative. "At that moment," she testified later, "someone came to me with a message from him to say that he was waiting for me. I was very much astonished, for he could not see me from where he was. Ileft Ars filled with wonderful interior joy." Similar is the story of a young hunter, Francois Dorel, who went to Ars with friends, but told them there was no way he would go to confession. He was standing in the square with his dog when the Abbe Vianney passed by. "I wish your soul were in as good shape as your dog," the priest said. Overwhelmed, the young man wept, and made his confession, during which Vianney told him: "Go to La Trappe." Francois Dorel died there as

As in life... Given the vast scope of St John Vianney's achievements as a priest it is hardly surprising that his body, pictured above, is counted among that remarkable group known as the Incorruptibles and is still on permanent display 150 years after his death. a Trappist monk 30 years later. A geologist who had not attended Mass since his First Communion went to Ars in 1841 just to please a friend. Once there, his companion insisted that the geologist accompany him to Mass. His eyes

met those of Vianney as the priest went to the altar. "I felt overwhelmed," the man said later. "During the whole of Mass I hid my face in my hands. After Mass I wanted to get out of there. As I was passing the sacristy door,I heard a voice from within saying 'Out, every-

body out.' A bony hand drew me in. Without thinking what I was saying I began to tell the saintly man the whole story of my life, from my First Communion onwards. WhileIdid so he wept and cried out repeatedly: 'How good God is! How much he has loved you!" This was clearly not the same man who had told his parishioners two decades earlier that they would go to hell if they did not stop going to dances. Divine wrath had been supplanted by divine love. Toward himself, however, Vianney remained severe to the end, fearing for his salvation. "I should be the happiest of priests," he said on one occasion, "if it were not for the thought of having to appear before God's tribunal as a parish priest." Three times he attempted to leave Ars for a monastery. Each time he was prevented, either by circumstances or by his own change of mind. By 1859, the year of his death, it is estimated that up to 120,000 pilgrims were coming annually to Ars (an average of almost 330 a day) to confess to the most celebrated priest in France. Special trains were laid on to accommodate the crowds. He made light of this, saying: "I am like the zeros, which have no value except alongside other figures."

At the end of July 1859 Vianney knew he was dying. On the fourth of August, two hours after midnight, he went home to God, at the hour when, on thousands of days previously, he had already spent an hour hearing women's confessions in his little church. He was canonised in 1925 by Pope Pius XI, who declared him the patron saint of parish priests. I have invoked his prayers daily for more than 40 years. Of all the sayings attributed to him, my favourite is this: "In the heart which loves God, it is always springtime." • The Vatican has launched a website to promote the Year of the Priest featuring Pope Benedict XVI's letter of proclaimation and information on the Cure of Ars, Saint Marcellin Champagnat and other holy priests in the history of the Church. It can be found at: www.annussacerdotalis.org Rev. John Jay Hughes is a priest of the Saint Louis archdiocese in the US and the author, most recently, of the memoir No Ordinary Fool and of Columns of Light: 30 Remarkable Saints, available both in print and as a recorded book from Now You Know Media. This article first appeared on Insidgatholic.com and is reprinted with permission.

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Vista 4

June 24 2009, The Record

VISTA 4

Recipients come from every walk aide Rs

Fr Julian Carrasco

Mgr Peter McCrann

emembering Papal Award recipient Fr Julian Carrasco, Fr Douglas Rowe FP described him as "a very energetic chap and a mean soccer player" when they played together back in the early 1960s in Nagpur, India. Up until last year, Fr Carrasco had been Portuguese Chaplain based at Holy Cross Church in Hamilton Hill - a position he took up in 1991. Fr Carrasco told The Record that he remains the only Portugeuse-speaking priest in the archdiocese. He was born at Mombasa, Kenya, on 20 December 1930. His Seminary studies were at the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, Goa, India from 1941 to 1953 and he was ordained in the Basilica of St Francis Xavier, Goa, on 6 January 1954. His began his first appointment at the parish of St Thomas, Aldona, Goa, in the same year, remaining there until 1961 when he began post-graduate studies at St Francis de Sales College, Navur. He taught in Goas Missionary Seminary of Pilar from 1965-1966 before returning to his country of birth, Kenya, where he was a missionary and secondary school teacher in the Ngong Diocese from 1966-1986. Fr Carrasco worked in Brazil from 19861987 as an assistant priest in the Campo Mourao Diocese, Parana, before making the move to the Diocese of Macau where he was an assistant priest from 1987-1991. He was invited to the Archdiocese of Perth by Bishop Robert Healy and was incardinated to the Archdiocese of Perth on April 15 2000, at the suggestion of Fr Ned Donovan SMA. He was Fr Donovan's assistant in Beaconsfield and Portuguese Chaplain based at Holy Cross Church, Hamilton Hill from 1991-2008. He continues to celebrate Mass for the Portuguese Community as well as visiting the sick in their homes, hospitals and nursing homes. Like many of his fellow award recipients, Fr Carrasco is very active in his retirement. He continues his involvement among the Portuguese, Goan and Timorese Communities of the Archdiocese of Perth. Fr Carrasco remains interested in promoting unity among Portuguese people and teaches the Konkani (Goan) language to local members of the Goan community.

Seminarians and fellow clergy accompany the priests who have been awarded the pontiifcal medals as they arrive at St Charles Seminary. PHOTO. ROBERT HIINI

held in Melbourne, Victoria. On 16 May 1976, Fr Walsh was appointed Parish Priest of Rockingham and was responsible for building the new Our Lady of Lourdes Church. Fr Walsh retired from active Parish Ministry in May 2007 and lives in Shoalwater.

Fr Maurice Toop

aurice Toop was born in Nedlands, May 8 1931 and was educated at St Teresa's School Nedlands and St Charles Seminary, Guildford, Western Australia and Brignole-Sale Seminary in Genoa, Italy. Ordained on 12 September 1954 in Nedlands over the next 11 years he served as Assistant Priest at West Perth, then Highgate on 16 October 1959 where his fluency in Italian was put to great effect. In 1965, Fr Toop learnt the local Aboriginal language and became well-known for his pastoral and other care of the Aborigines. In September 1979, Fr Toop was appointed Parish Priest of Osborne Park where he was responsible for building the new St Kieran's Church. In 1985, he volunteered to serve in Geraldton and later served as Parish Priest of Northam, Parish Priest of Highgate and Vicar for Clergy.

Fr Thomas Game

Fr Michael Casey

r Gaine was born on November 23 1929 at Kenmare, Ireland. He was ordained a Priest of the Archdiocese of Perth on June 2 1957 at St Kieran's Seminary Chapel, Kilkenny. Between November 1957 - March 1967 he was an assistant priest at Northam, Kalgoorlie and Claremont, including chaplaincy at the Mental Hospital, Graylands Migrant Hostel and Karrakatta Cemetery. From March 1967 - August 1979, he served as Administrator of Highgate Parish, Assistant Priest at East Victoria Park, Priestin-Charge of Quairading, Parish Priest of Pinjarra and acting Port Chaplain at Fremantle and the Stella Mans Seafarers' Centre. In August 1979, Fr Gaine was appointed founding Parish Priest of Girrawheen and was responsible for forming the new Parish Community and directed the building of Our Lady of Mercy Church. Fr Gaine retired from the Parish in 2002 to County Kerry, Ireland.

Fr Henry Finbarr Walsh

r Walsh was born in Cork City, Ireland on March 5 1929. He was educated at the Christian Brothers' College, Cork and All Hallows College, Dublin, being ordained there for Perth on June 21 1953. He arrived in Perth in November 1953 and over the next eleven years, served as Assistant Priest at West Perth, Assistant Priest at Cottesloe, Assistant Priest at St Mary's Cathedral and Secretary of the Church Office. From July 1969 - May 1976 he served as Administrator of St Mary's Cathedral, a member of the Council of Priests, Dean of St Mary's Cathedral and the WA Coordinator for the International Eucharistic Congress

ichael Casey was born at Fines, Ireland on August 6 1925. He commenced studies at All Hallows College in June 1946, after studying dairy science in Limerick, and was ordained All Hallows for the Archdiocese of Perth on June 21 1954. From 1956 -1966 he served as Assistant Priest at Nedlands, which included the Carmelite Monastery and the Sunset Old Men's Home, Dalkeith. In May1966, he was appointed Parish Priest of Merredin, building a new church dedicated to Our Lady and a new presbytery. St Mary's Church was dedicated by Bishop Eamon Casey and opened debt-free. Fr Casey was appointed Parish Priest of South Perth on 15 August 1979 where he still serves. His non-parochial duties over the years have included membership of the Council of Priests, successive terms as a Diocesan Consulter and the Retired Priests Accommodation Fund. Fr Casey was so esteemed by Archbishop Goody that he served as his Executor.

Fr Henry Byrne

homas Henry Bryne (known as HENRY) was born at Hallyhale, Ireland on November 29 1931. His parents were Michael and Josephine Byrne and his elder brother Michael RIP was ordained for the Archdiocese of Perth. His Priestly studies were at St Kieran's Seminary, Kilkenny and he was ordained for Perth in Kilkenny on June 3 1956. He arrived in Perth in December 1956 and over the next 14 years served as Assistant Priest at Maylands, Assistant Priest at Kalgoorlie, Assistant Priest at Shenton Park - which also included Chaplaincy to

the Repatriation Hospital for Veterans Assistant Priest at South Perth and Assistant Priest at Claremont, which included chaplaincy to the Mental Hospital and Migrant Hostel. From February 1970 - 2001 he held the positions of Priest-In-Charge at Beverley, Parish Priest of Lynwood-Langford and Parish Priest of Scarborough from 1985 to his retirement in March 2001. Since his retirement, he has assisted in North Beach parish and celebrated his 50th Anniversary of Ordination there on 11 June 2006.

Fr Brian Gerard Harris

rian Gerard Harris was born in Perth May 19 1930 attending St Mary's Primary School in Leederville and CBC Leederville until he was recruited by Dr Goody, later Archbishop, the Rector of St Charles Seminary, Guildford. His theological studies were at St Patrick's College, Manly, New South Wales. He was ordained to the Priesthood in St Mary's Cathedral, Perth, on July 23 1953. Over the next ten years he was on the staff of St Mary's Cathedral where he was given charge of St Francis Xavier Church, East Perth, chaplaincy at Royal Perth Hospital, and Assistant Priest at Shenton Park before a stint as Assistant Priest in Kalgoorlie. In 1962, Fr Harris was appointed Assistant Priest in Osborne Park. From 1964-1967, he was Assistant Priest of South Perth and in 1967, was appointed Parish Priest of Armadale and then Spearwood and East Victoria Park where he continues to serve. Fr Harris enjoys his Chaplaincy work at the East Victoria Park Campus of Ursula Frayne College and is very much appreciated by the staff.

Fr Anton Gordon Hesse

nton Gordon Hesse was born on July 25 1930 in Colombo, Ceylon now Sri Lanka. He commenced his seminary studies at St Peter's College and then in 1948 his family migrated to Perth. He studied at St Charles Seminary, Guildford and St Patrick's College, Manly, New South Wales, being ordained on 6 August 1955. Fr Hesse was appointed Assistant Priest at Kalgoorlie in 1956 and also served as Assistant Priest at Boulder while on the Goldfields. In 1960, Fr Hesse was appointed Assistant Priest at East Fremantle, which included Chaplaincy to the Royal Australian Navy's junior training facility. From 1964 to the late 1970s he worked as Assistant Priest at Scarborough, Priest-in-Charge of Kondinin, Assistant Priest at Highgate, Parish Priest of Mundaring and Administrator of Kelmscott Parish. From 1977 - 1987 he was Parish Priest of Carlisle and then from February 1987 was Parish Priest of Lockridge. After nearly two and half years of sick leave, he was Administrator of Osborne Park and then Parish Priest of Osborne Park. He resigned from the Parish in 2000 to be available for supply work in Parishes and is now part-time Chaplain at Mercy Hospital, Mt Lawley.

eter Francis McCrann was born in Geraldton, Western Australia on July 31 1923. He entered the workforce at the Commonwealth Bank. In May 1942, he was called up into the Army and served in Dutch New Guinea (West Papua) and then at Morotai. A fter the war, he studied economics and banking at the UWA. He was ordained in July 1957 after studies at St Charles Seminary, Guildford and read Theology at St Patrick's College, Manly, New South Wales. He was appointed to the staff of St Mary's Cathedral where he remained for 34 years and served as Chaplain to the Nurses' Guild, The St Vincent de Paul Society, State Council and the Knights of the Southern Cross. He became Chancellor of the Archdiocese in August 1974. In March 1982, he was appointed a Prelate of Honour to the Pope with the title Monsignor and has served as a member of the Council of Priests and appointed to successive terms as a Consultor from May 1992. He is a Defender of the Bond of the Regional Tribunal of Perth. Mgr McCrann was appointed Parish Priest of Cottesloe on 1 July 1992, his first appointment as Parish Priest. In February 2004, he was appointed Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Parish, Embleton - a position he has recently retired from.

Fr Eugene McGrath

iugene McGrath was born on December 18 1929 at Baltorin, Ireland into a devout family in which his elder brother became a Priest and his sister a Member of the Institute of the Congregation of Notre Dame des Missions. He was educated at St Brendan's College, Killarney and the Irish College, Rome being ordained in Rome on March 13 1954 for Perth. Fr McGrath arrived in Perth in February 1955 and was appointed Assistant Priest at Queen's Park. From 1959 - 1967 he served as Priest-In-Charge of Boulder, Assistant Priest at Northam, Assistant Priest at Subiaco, which included Chaplaincy to King Edward Hospital for Women and Princess Margaret Hospital for Children. In 1967 - 1990, he served as Parish Priest of Kellerberrin - which included Chaplaincy to the Preventorium for Asthmatic Children - Parish Priest of Rockingham, Parish Priest of Guildford, Parish Priest of Manning. Fr McGrath was appointed Parish Priest of Bruce Rock on May 19 1990 and then Parish Priest of Merredin and Dean on April 26 1991. In April 1994, Fr McGrath was appointed Parish Priest of BelmontRedcliffe until his retirement from Parish Ministry. He is currently Chaplain to the Little Sisters of the Poor Home for the Aged, Glendalough.

Fr John Vere O'Reilly

ohn Vere O'Reilly was born in Perth on August 13 1927. He was educated at St Joachim's School, Victoria Park, St atrick's School, Perth and St Francis Xavier School, Armadale. He was ordained to the priesthood on March 11958. From December 1958 to the late 1960s he served as Assistant Priest at Applecross and St Mary's Cathedral, Chaplain to the All Saints Chapel in the city, Director of Vocations, part-time Chaplain to the Regular Army and Chaplain to the Home of the Good Shepherd. From 1967 to June 1969, he was Chaplain to Aquinas College while continuing as Vocations Director and Army Chaplain. In June 1969 he was appointed Assistant Priest at Osborne Park and then as Administrator of Nedlands. Fr O'Reilly was Senior Chaplain for the 5th Military District until August 1987 and Parish Priest of St Benedict's Applecross until his formal retirement on January 31 2003. He currently serves as part-time Spiritual Director at St Charles Seminary, Guildford and Priest support in spiritual direction, the celebration of Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation to the Catholic Youth Ministry and a number of youth groups.

June 24 2009, The Record

Page 9

CHILDREN

Kids bitz ARTIST WEEK

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gift from the Record Bookshop. All you need to do is post or email in a drawing, poem or colouring picture. Please post or email. Justine Stevens, The Record, PO Box 75 Leederville WA 6902 or email: production@therecord.com.au Rachel and Sarah Raphael, of Thorn lie, are our Artists of the Week with these fantastic drawings of Our Lady. Rachel is 9 and Sarah is 6. Well done!

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St Peter Peter (d. 64), who was known as Simon before he became an apostle of Jesus, was a fisherman and the brother of Andrew, who was also an apostle. Peter became one of the most important early followers of Jesus. He made what we call "the great confession" when he said to Jesus, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God,"yet ironically he also denied knowing Jesus after the Lord had been arrested. After Jesus ascended into heaven, Peter spoke to the crowd when the Holy Spirit came down on the house where he and other Christians had been praying. He preached and performed miracles that are recounted in the Acts of the Apostles, and he wrote several letters that are part of the New Testament.

crossword There were animals from every corner of the Earth on the Ark. Fill in the crossword below using the pictures of animals as clues. Some letters have been added to help you.

We honour Peter on June 29.

PUZZLE

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Write the number of the chapter of the Gospel of Mark where the stories listed below are found: 5

Jesus is baptized. Jesus feeds 5,000 people.

Jesus is transfigured. Jesus calms a storm.

Jesus is crucified. Jesus walks on water. Jesus calls his first disciples. I 'L '9 '9

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CHILDREN'S STORY JESUS HEALS A SICK WOMAN By Joe Sarnicola BY the time Jesus had crossed the lake in a boat, word of his approaching had spread and a large crowd of people was waiting for him on the opposite shore. In the crowd was a man named Jairus, who was an official of the synagogue. He knelt down in front of Jesus and said, "My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live." Jesus went with the man and the crowd followed along. There was a woman in the crowd who had been sick for 12 years. She had been to many doctors and spent all of her money, but nothing had made her well. She continued to become sicker as time passed. She had heard how Jesus had healed many people. She said to herself, "If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured." She pressed through the other people until she reached Jesus. Then she extended her hand and touched his cloak. As soon as she did, she was healed. Jesus knew that healing power had passed out of him, so he turned and asked, "Who has touched my clothes?" His disciples were surprised by his question, and they asked him, "You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, 'Who touched me?" Jesus nodded and continued to look around into the crowd. The woman came forward to Jesus, trembling with fear. She told him everything that had happened to her, and why she had touched him. Jesus smiled, held out his hand and helped the woman to stand up straight, and said, "Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction." Before the woman had gone back to her home, several servants from the home of the synagogue official met up with the man and Jesus. They said to their master, "Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?" But Jesus said to the man, "Do not be afraid; just have faith." Jesus continued on until they reached the man's house. He entered the house, but only allowed Peter, James and John to come in with him. The family and servants were crying because of the death of the young girl. Jesus asked, "Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep." Jesus went into the room where the girl was, along with her parents. He said, "Little girl, I say to you, arise!" The girl immediately got up and walked around the room. READ MORE ABOUT IT: Mark 5

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June 24 2009, The Record

THE WORLD

off the radar: Pope's teaching ministry finds little echo in the media VATICAN CITY (CNS) - News coverage of Pope Benedict XVI tends to leap from big event to big event, so perhaps it's no surprise that after his Holy Land pilgrimage last month the German pontiff has fallen off the mainstream media radar. To cite a single but typical example, in the month following the Holy Land trip the New York Times did not report about any of the Pope's activities at the Vatican. Even in Italy, coverage of Pope Benedict has fallen off markedly. The Pope is likely to step back into the spotlight when he meets with President Barack Obama and when he issues his encyclical on social justice - two major events expected in the first half of July. But then the Pope goes on vacation outside of Rome, and re-emerges only at the end of September with a visit to the Czech Republic. He doesn't completely disappear, of course; he continues to give talks and meet with individuals and groups. But the press will take little notice. The pattern of media attention or lack of it - has led some Vatican officials to privately lament what they see as a paradox of Pope Benedict's pontificate: the Pope's primary focus and greatest talent is teaching, they say, but it's the kind

S'Avist Vatican Letter By John Thavis, CNS

of teaching that rarely breaks into the news cycle. "You don't get soundbites from this Pope, and that is a challenge to journalists. Another challenge is that he often speaks a language that presupposes faith: said one senior Vatican official. One priest complained that controversies generated by such episodes as the rehabilitation of a Holocaust-denying bishop have detracted from the Pope's newsmaking capability. "They're not interested in him. I think part of the reason is that there is a prejudice there now," he said. Whether or not the whole world is watching, the Pope takes his day-to-day ministry seriously. As a sampler, here are four recent talks that received little or no coverage in the mainstream media, but which touched on essential themes of his pontificate: • God is love, and can be per-

ceived in the created world. On June 7, the Pope delivered another mini-lesson on this favourite topic, saying God can be sensed in the macro-universe of galaxies and planets as well as the micro-universe of cells and genetic material. "God is wholly and only love, the purest, infinite and eternal love. He does not live in splendid solitude but is rather an inexhaustible source of life that is ceaselessly given and communicated," he said. The reason he keeps hammering on this theme? Because he sees the rupture of the human being's relationship with God as the source of countless threats to the moral order in modern society. • Reason is open to truth, and Scripture can help lead it to truth. At his general audience on June 10, Pope Benedict turned his attention to John Scotus Erigena, an obscure ninth-century Irish theologian and philosopher. The Pope said Erigena outlined a process by which scriptural texts help bring "intelligent creatures toward the threshold of divine mystery: so that they can move beyond their own shortcomings "with the simple, free and sweet force of the truth." Like Pope Benedict, Erigena believed that "true religion and true philosophy coincide: as the Pope put it, and that authentic

authority and reason can never really disagree, because they are both rooted in divine wisdom. While the Pope's arguments may go over the heads of many of the pilgrims in St Peter's Square, they are an important part of his effort to convince contemporary society that rational thought is based on objective truth, and that the modern trend toward relativism marks a dangerous path. • The influence of secularisation, even in the church's liturgy. Celebrating the feast of the Body and Blood of Christ on June 11, the Pope spoke of "the risk of a creeping secularisation even inside the church, which can translate into a formal and empty type of Eucharistic worship." It was the second time he's made that point in recent weeks. He added that a similar danger lay in "reducing prayer to superficial and hurried moments" in the midst of more mundane affairs. The Pope wants liturgy to be beautiful, but it's not simply a matter of aesthetics; it is beautiful, he says, because it's based on the truth - the Eucharist as the body and blood of Christ. For the Pope, the liturgy is tied deeply to doctrine, and that was seen in an important appointment he made on June 16, naming US Dominican Father Augustine

Hungry to hit 1billion mark New report: 12 'on Hungr3,, d to reach a historic h

2009 with just more than 1 billion people

CARIBBEAN RICA

Pontiff appeals for Africa as world's hungry increase • By John Thavis

VATICAN CITY (CNS) - In a letter to the president of Germany, Pope Benedict XVI expressed his concern at the plight of struggling African countries during the current global economic crisis. The Pope's letter was released as new statistics showed that a record 1 billion people - about one

in every six - were suffering from chronic hunger in the wake of the economic crisis. The rate is much higher in Africa, where about one in four people suffers from chronic hunger. The Pope's May 4 letter to German President Horst Kohler, published in the Vatican newspaper June 20, said Africa's future depends on an attitude of sharing and fairness that resists the "law of the strongest" and the pursuit of selfish interests. "In this context the support of the international community is needed, notwithstanding - and in

fact precisely because of - the current financial and economic crisis that is particularly affecting Africa and the poorest countries: the Pope said. The Pope was responding to a letter from Kohler that preceded the German pontiff's March visit to the African countries of Cameroon and Angola. The Pope said he returned from Africa convinced that it was a young continent, full of the joy of life and of trust, with an enormous potential for creativity." "Certainly, the foreign interests and the tensions of Africa's own history still weigh on its present and threaten its future: he said. The Pope pledged the church's continued assistance to the weakest sectors of Africa's population, including those suffering from violence and illnesses like AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. The new report on hunger came from the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome. It said the world economic crisis has lowered incomes and increased unemployment, reducing access to food by the poor. The FAO report said there were 100 million more chronically hungry people today than one year ago. The organization defines hunger as the consumption of fewer than 1,800 calories per day.

French archdiocese reaches out to ignorant Parisians OXFORD, England (CNS) - The Archdiocese of Paris has launched an evangelisation campaign to reach out to citizens unfamiliar with Catholic faith and worship. "The Church here has long been involved in missionary action, but still has a lot of work to do:' Claire Avalle, archdiocesan spokeswoman, told CNS in a June 16 interview. "We're now counting on people to take up the pilgrim baton again and step outside the walls and borders of their parishes." Catholics traditionally make up two-thirds of France's 60 million inhabitants, although fewer than one in 10 attends Sunday Mass. Avalle said the archdiocese had no current data on weekly or occasional

church attendance, but had been encouraged by a recent increase in adult baptisms and confirmations, which topped 300 during Holy Week in April. "The beautiful things which happen in our churches shouldn't just be for internal benefit. The time has come to go beyond the parish framework and think beyond the usual categories: she said. Paris Cardinal Andre Vingt-Trois launched the three-year evangelisation program earlier this year, and Avalle said most Catholics had been receptive to it. She said the program will target people in their 30s and 40s whose families gave up religious practice in the 1960s.

million trapped in trafficking WASHINGTON (CNS) Efforts to combat global human trafficking suffered setbacks last year, in part because a bad global economy left more people vulnerable to traffickers, a new report says. The US Department of State released its 2009 Trafficking in Persons report on June 16. The annual report documents the efforts of foreign governments to eliminate the most severe forms of human trafficking. The US government defines severe human trafficking as the use of force, coercion or fraud to obtain labour or induce a commercial sex act. Kristyn Williams, interim associate director of the antitrafficking services program for the US bishop's Migration and Refugee Services, suggested the trafficking report could be "an effective tool" in the prevention of human trafficking worldwide. According to the report, an estimated 12.3 million people are currently trapped in some form of modern-day slavery. The report cited the international economic crisis as a driving factor in the rise of human trafficking. Rising unemployment rates and falling incomes have left desperate workers vulnerable to manipulation by human traffickers, particularly in underdeveloped countries. Increased international demand for cheap goods also has contributed to the rise in human trafficking, the report said. It highlighted some positive developments in the effort to combat human trafficking. In 2008, 26 acts of anti-trafficking

DiNoia as secretary of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments. Father DiNoia had been undersecretary at the doctrinal congregation; the new head of the worship congregation, Spanish Cardinal Antonio Canizares Llovera, was a leading member of the doctrinal congregation. • The need for a new global economic model. Addressing the "Centesimus Annus" Foundation on June 13, the Pope offered a preview of his upcoming social encyclical, saying that "certain economic-financial paradigms that have been dominant in recent years need to be rethought" so that more attention is paid to the richpoor disparity in the world. He took up the same theme the next day, saying that a UN financial summit in late June should promote a fairer distribution of resources and decision-making power to favour poorer countries. The Pope has repeatedly said the solution to the current global economic crisis will require lifestyle changes and "strategic choices that are sometimes not easy to accept." Given his previous remarks, some expect the encyclical to challenge not only the obvious excesses and abuses of modern capitalism, but its philosophical underpinnings as well.

legislation were introduced or amended worldwide. The 2009 report contains assessments of more than 175 countries. Foreign governments are eval-

uated on their effectiveness in prosecuting traffickers, protection of victims of trafficking and prevention of further trafficking violations.

Vietnamese girls, one as young as 8, sit on a bed in a brothel in a Cambodian village near Phnom Penh in March in this 2002 photo. The vulnerable are prime targets of traffickers. PHOTO: CNS/REUTERS

Each nation is placed on one of three tiers based on the results of these evaluations. Those in compliance with the US government's minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking are considered firsttier nations. Second-tier nations are those that have made significant strides toward meeting the minimum standards, and thirdtier nations are those that are making no effort to combat trafficking. Nations ranked in the thirdtier may be subject to economic sanctions. The report ranked 28 nations in the top tier, down from 29 in 2008. The number of nations in the third tier rose from 14 to 17.

June 24 2009, The Record

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THE WORLD

Benedict opens Year for Priests Pope says priests must witness God's compassion • By John Thavis VATICAN CITY (CNS) Formally opening the Year for Priests, Pope Benedict urged all priests to strive for holiness and said the ordained ministry was indispensable for the church and the world. "The church needs priests who are holy, ministers who help the faithful experience the merciful love of the Lord and who are convinced witnesses of that love," the Pope said at a prayer service in St Peter's Basilica on June 19. At the same time, in an apparent reference to cases of priestly sex abuse, he warned of the "terrible risk of damaging those we are obliged to save:' "Nothing makes the church and the body of Christ suffer so much as the sins of its pastors, especially those who transform themselves into 'robbers of sheep: either because they lead them astray with their private doctrines, or because they bind them in the snares of sin and death:' he said. Thousands of priests packed the basilica for the evening prayer service, which was preceded by a procession of the relic of the heart of St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests. The Pope proclaimed the yearlong focus on priestly ministry to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the saint's death. Pope Benedict stopped to pray before the saint's heart, exposed in a glass and gold reliquary. In his homily, he said the French curate's heart was "burning with divine love," a love that priests today need to imitate if they are to be effective pastors. The liturgy was celebrated on the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a day of prayer for the sanctification of priests. In his homily, the Pope said the "essential nucleus of Christianity" is found in the heart of Jesus: the saving love of God that "invites us to step outside of ourselves" and "make ourselves a gift of love without reserve:'

and used it to make the sign of the cross over the assembly. The day before the opening liturgy, the Pope issued a six-page letter thanking God for the gifts the majority of priests have given to the church and the world, even while acknowledging that some priests have done great harm. He said he hoped priests would use the year and its special events to deepen their commitment to their own renewal "for the sake of a more forceful and incisive witness to the Gospel in today's world:' Since the beginning of his pontificate, Pope Benedict has given special attention to priests and their ministry, holding frequent and lengthy off-the-cuff discussion sessions with clergy of Rome and other parts of Italy. He has forcefully condemned the scandal of priestly sexual abuse, most notably during his visit to the United States in 2008. More recently, Irish bishops said the Pope was visibly upset listening to their report on decades of abuse suffered by thousands of Irish children in the care of religious congregations. The Pope has many times noted the burdens carried by priests in the modern age, including their increasing workload and their responsibility to preach and witness to Gospel values in a world that often seems indifferent to them. The Pope has also insisted on improved selection and formation of priests, so that they can live up to the promises made in their vocation - in particular priestly celibacy. In recent weeks, the Vatican siga tougher line on the celinaled Pope Benedict XVI holds a monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament bacy issue when a Central African during an evening prayer service on June 19 in St Peter's Basilica at the Republic archbishop resigned folVatican, formally opening the Year for Priests. PHOTO: CNS/LOSSERVATORE ROMANO lowing an investigation into priests of his diocese who lived more or The Pope said pastoral formation less openly with women and the "God's heart throbs with compassion," he said. He said priests of priests was certainly important children they have fathered. According to Vatican statistics, should never forget that that are for modern priests. But even more consecrated to "serve, humbly and necessary, he said, was the "'sci- there were 408,024 priests at the ence of love' that one learns only in end of 2007. with authority, the common priestThe total number of priests a 'heart-to-heart' encounter with hood of the faithful:' has been increasing slightly in "Ours is an indispensable mis- Christ:' The liturgy closed with adora- recent years, but has not kept pace sion for the church and for the tion of the Eucharist, underlining with the increase in the number world, which demands full fidelity to Christ and unceasing union the central place of the Eucharist in of Catholics. The number of with him. It demands, therefore, the life of priests. In his final bless- Catholics per priest was 1,830 in that we tend constantly to sanctity, ing, the Pope lifted a monstrance 1977, and had jumped to 2,810 in as St. John Vianney did," he said. holding the Blessed Sacrament 2007.

'Gay rights' law ends Catholic adoption agency LONDON (CNS) - The Catholic adoption agency of the Archdiocese of Westminster said British gay rights laws have forced its key service to close. The Catholic Children's Society halted its assessments of couples and individuals as potential adopters and foster parents, it announced "with deep regret" in a June 19 statement. Britain's Sexual

Orientation

Regulations, created under the 2006 Equality Act to ban discrimination against gays, require all adoption agencies, regardless of their beliefs, to assess any couple who apply. "This would mean, if we were to continue, that we would be forced to assess same-sex couples," the statement said. "This would not meet our existing criterion that couples coming forward must be married as man and wife. The trustees are convinced that what is best for children is that they be brought up by married couples. This is shown by research, but it is also consonant with the teaching of the church. "In the unanimous view of the trustees, it would be totally unacceptable for our Catholic agency to act in a way that is at odds with the teaching of the church:' the statement added. The agency will continue to operate its adoption support and counselling services for the many thousands of adoptions it facilitated in recent years. Ann Widdecombe, a Catholic member of Parliament, told CNS in a June 19 telephone interview that it was inevitable that the regulations would result in the closure of Catholic adoption agencies. "We knew right from the start that the adoption agencies would close down," Widdecombe said. "They cannot go against the teachings of the Church. For the sake of political intolerance, they can now no longer operate:' The charity found new families for about 15 "difficult-to-place" children each year. It becomes the second of 11 Catholic adoption agencies in England and Wales to end its assessment service. An agency operated by the Diocese of Salford closed its service in 2008.

Cardinal says Catholics 'humbled' by Anglicans • By Teresita Johnson

HOUSTON (CNS) - Catholics are humbled by the stories of former Anglicans who were faced with a decision and stepped out in faith to join the Catholic Church, said US Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of Galveston-Houston. "The Catholic Church understands and appreciates the sacrifices made by former Anglican clergy and laity who have made the journey as individuals or as communities to full communion with the Catholic Church," he said on June 12. "Truly, Rome is home and a place of abiding in our pilgrimage to the father," noted the cardinal in a keynote address at the 2009 Anglican Use Conference in Houston. The June 11-13 gathering explored the pastoral provision that the Vatican approved in 1980 allowing retention of some elements of Anglican identity in liturgy when a number of Anglicans from the same congregation or the same area enter full Catholic

communion. That provision was included when the Vatican granted permission for special US procedures to admit into the Catholic priesthood former Episcopal priests who have become Catholic. In 1976, after the Episcopal Church - the US member of the Anglican Communion - decided to ordain women to the priesthood, some former Episcopal priests and laity sought full communion with the Catholic Church. In 2003, the Episcopal Church's decision to ordain an openly gay man prompted other Episcopalians to join the Catholic Church. In his address Cardinal DiNardo said that the gift of Catholic unity is sometimes taken for granted by those in the Catholic Church, but this cohesiveness is not lost on those seeking communion. The cardinal observed the eventual reconciliation of church communities was anticipated by the Second Vatican Council, but he acknowledged that Christian unity , `may not be realised in our own time:' In the meantime, the church is "necessarily dependent on the personal and individual model

to further the vision of Catholic unity:' he explained. "The pastoral provision has made it possible for Anglicans to know the blessing of full communion but it is important that you simply do not walk away your from old relationships, espethose cially that may have dam- Cardinal DiNardo been aged by the tragic conflicts of contemporary Anglicanism:' the cardinal said. The 2009 conference was hosted by Our Lady of Walsingham Catholic Church in Houston, one of only eight Anglican-use communities in the US. Besides Houston there are Anglican-use Catholic parishes in San Antonio and Arlington, Texas, and in Columbia, South Carolina. In addition, there are Anglican-use congregations sharing the facilities of regular Catholic parishes in Boston, Corpus Christi, Texas, and Scranton, Pennsylvania.

About 150 people from 14 states and two foreign countries made the trek to Houston to attend the conference. Activities and lectures were held on the grounds of Our Lady of Walsingham and also at St Mary Seminary. In his remarks Father James Ramsey, Our Lady of Walsingham's pastor, talked about the historical and ecumenical significance of the Anglican-use provision. "It was the first time since the Reformation 500 years ago that the Roman Catholic Church made it possible for a Reformation tradition to return to the Catholic Church and bring its tradition with it:' he said. While traditional Anglicans will find something familiar, Father Ramsey said, Catholics accustomed to the Latin-rite Mass will notice some differences in Mass celebrated in an Anglican-use church. "Ithink they would notice a dignity, a reverence, a respect, a certain grace, transcendence, a sense of the holy and of the sacred," he said. "Those would be starters that were always a part of our Anglican

tradition." He said the Anglicanuse Mass follows the same order as the Latin-rite Mass. Old English is used throughout, and most of the Mass, including the readings, is sung. In addition, there is a generous amount of incense and use of a communion rail. Also, the priest faces the altar. Father Eric Bergman, a former Episcopal priest who is pastor at the Anglican-use church in Scranton, joined the Catholic Church in 2005, when it became evident, he said, that he and other Episcopalians were becoming an oddity in his denomination. He credits the Catholic Church's unwavering stance on the dignity of human life and its view on the sanctity of the marriage bond as major factors in his decision to become a Catholic. Under the pastoral provision, he and his wife and children and his parishioners all entered the Catholic Church at the same time. About 120 Episcopal and Anglican priests have become Catholic priests since 1980. Most are married and working in Latinrite parishes.

Page 12

PERSPECTIVES

June 24 2009, The Record

He's always beside The Affliction of Brother Caleb me, especially in Family the darkest times is the Future

with Karen & Derek Boylen

On Sorry - and Reconciliation.

Kay Gibbens*

y father was a lapsed Catholic partly because of his wartime experiences. My mother came from a Protestant background. I remember attending a Baptist Sunday school when I was about eight. From this background came a personal and intimate journey towards Catholicism. Before converting I felt like I was on the outside looking in. Influenced by my son attending Catholic schools and some Church-going Catholic friends, I began going to Church. This was on and off for many years. More recently I wanted to be part of that inner circle. I think that I have always had a strong spirituality. I became Catholic because it felt right and was comfortable. One of the reasons I didn't convert sooner was the deaths of my sons. One died at 12 months after an accident at home. The other was 16 years old when he died in a horse riding accident. Some of my family and friends probably think I converted because of my grief. However, I was determined that this would not be the case. It did influence my deciwith Debbie Warner sion but was not the sole reason. At the time of my sons' deaths I had the support of Christian friends who prayed for me. That touched me. I am sure that through them God was gently pushing and prompting me towards a deeper faith. He works in mysterious ways. The final prompt towards my conversion happened 12 months ago. My husband and I were asked by friends to be the Godparents of their daughter. It occurred to me neither my husband nor I were Catholic which disqualified us from this important role. I approached my Parish Priest Father Joseph Rathnaraj and discussed it with him. Time was running out. The only answer was that Ibecome Catholic as soon as possible. My baptism was on a Thursday and my friend's daughter's baptism was on the following Sunday! I have received a lot of support from my parish in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. After I had my Confirmation and received Holy Communion parishioners hugged, welcomed and congratulated me. It was both touching and humbling. Now I feel like I am part of a bigger family. I also believe that my sons were supporting me from a much better place. My faith helps me cope with my loss. It gives me balance in my life. Our relationships with God and loved ones go beyond our time on earth. It is not just in the here and now. We have to be open to Jesus in our life. Being Catholic has to be the real thing everyday not just at Easter and Christmas. Some people seem to only feel a connection with Christ during the bad times. We can overlook little things that we can be thankful for everyday, like new life flowering in your garden. Since the RCIA process I have absorbed aspects of Catholicism and there is still so much more to learn. I have been challenged and become more mindful of my behavior. I ask myself, "Am I being like Jesus to my neighbour?" My perspective has become more reflective. I like the reflection called "Footprints in the sand" by Mary Stevenson. Christ walks beside you in the good times and carries you through the hard times. Jesus has always been there in my life, even when I was not aware of it. *Kay is pictured second from right in the photo.

WhyI i l ecame Catholic

If you have a story to tell please contact Debbie via. debwarrier@hotmail.com

It was Caleb who stole your biscuit, Elijah,I saw him!" Isaiah said with a deadpan face. Thus started the affliction of Caleb at the hands of Elijah and Isaiah. Caleb denied the accusation - outright and earnestly - but that didn't help his cause. Instead, it fired the others up even more. Elijah was upset about losing this chocolate biscuit (the last in the pack) and Caleb was going to feel the full wrath of his vengeance. In the end Derek took Elijah to the shops with him to give Caleb a bit of peace. An hour later, at lunch, things had calmed down. Then Isaiah happily announces: "Elijah, I ate your biscuit." "Oh," says Elijah, "That's okay." Needless to say, it wasn't okay with Mum and Dad. Poor Caleb had been made to suffer by his big brothers for something he hadn't done. Elijah is preparing for his first Reconciliation this year. We are firm believers that the primary preparation for this sacrament must be in the family. Interestingly, when Jesus teachs his followers about reconciliation, he also chooses to use the image of a family, the prodigal family. In our home we are very particular about reconciliation and apology

between family members. When we hurt someone, do or say the wrong thing or neglect to do the right thing, an apology is warranted. It is expected that you say "I'm sorry." Some attempt at reparation is also expected. If you steal something from someone you need to say sorry but you also need to give back what you stole. Reparation in our home is words or deeds that show we are genuine in our desire to make things better. And when a sincere apology has been given, and sometimes even before it has, we also expect forgiveness. We say "I forgive you." We want our children to learn through the experience of family that forgiveness is a gift. That we forgive each other in spite of how we feel. We forgive even when we might still be hurting or the transgression is still fresh in our mind or we don't feel like it. It teaches that forgiveness is to be given and accepted. Forgiveness is a free, gift of love. Teaching our children about reconciliation is critical. Many of the issues that cause problems for children are much less significant by adult standards. Helping our children to understand reconciliation and to practise forgiveness at this stage is therefore a good training ground for their adult lives in a world that is in deep need of peace and reconciliation. Recently, at an audience with an estimated 7000 children, Pope Benedict urged them to practise reconciliation and forgiveness: "Sometimes in human life it seems inevitable that we should argue," he acknowledged, "but what remains important is the art of reconciliation, of forgiveness, of starting anew and not letting bitterness remain in our

hearts." However, it's not just enough to teach, we need to practise as well. For many, the sacrament of Reconciliation has become a forgotten sacrament. When we partake in the Eucharist, we come together as the Body of Christ, we learn about God's saving grace, we hear the word and we are nourished for the week ahead. In spite of our imperfections, the sacrament of Reconciliation is God's free, loving gift to us because he wants to be united with us. Each time we go to Reconciliation, God's grace works within us and makes us an agent of change. It is only through deepening our experience of the Spirit through Reconciliation that we can hope to achieve world peace. We need to teach our children to be accountable for their actions, to say sorry, to try and make reparation and to forgive. When we do this we are teaching them, in a profound way, about the deeper, richer meaning of reconciliation. We are helping them to become the agents through whom God's kingdom will be built.

Origins ofImmaculate feast Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Some time ago you wrote about the origin of the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Could you say something about the origin of the devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, which is celebrated on the day after the feast of the Sacred Heart?

By Fr John Flader

hile devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary certainly received an impulse in more recent times, its roots go back to the Bible. We recall Simeon's prophecy, during the presentation of Jesus in the temple, that a sword would pierce Mary's heart, so that the thoughts of many hearts would be revealed (cf. Lk 2:35). This has led to numerous artworks depicting Mary's heart pierced by a sword. Luke also says twice that Mary "kept all these things, pondering them in her heart" (Lk 2:19, 51), first when the shepherds revealed what the angel had told them after the birth of Jesus, and again after Jesus had been lost and found in the temple. Here we consider Mary deep in prayer, pondering in her heart the meaning of what has just been revealed. Devotion to the Heart of Mary would come later. In the twelth century there are suggestions of it in St Anselm (d. 1109) and St Bernard of Clairvaux (d. 1153), and in the following century the French theologian Richard de Saint

Laurent (d. 1250) alluded to the devotion in his long work De laudibus B. Mariae Virginis. St Mechtilde (d. 1298) and St Gertrude (d. 1302) had devotion to the Heart of Mary, as did St Thomas Becket. In the 15th century St Bernardine of Siena (d. 1444) gained the title "Doctor of the Heart of Mary" for his writings on the heart of Mary. In the 17th century St John Eudes (d. 1681) wrote a long treatise on the Admirable Heart (Coeur Admirable), first published in 1681, and he established several societies which fostered devotion to the Heart of Mary. He was largely responsible for the establishment of a feast in honour of the Heart of Mary, celebrated first in 1648. In 1799 Pope Pius VI, then in captivity, granted the Bishop of Palermo permission to celebrate a feast of the Most Pure Heart of Mary in his diocese, and in 1805 Pope Pius VII extended the feast to any diocese which requested it. Two events fostered the devotion further in the 19th century: the revelation of the Miraculous Medal to St Catherine Laboure in Paris in 1830 (cf. J. Flader, Question Time, Connor Court 2008, n. 135) and the establishment in 1836 at Our Lady of Victories in Paris of the Archconfraternity of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Refuge of Sinners. Another great boost to the devotion came in the apparitions at Fatima in 1917. On 13 July, after showing the three children a vision of hell, Our Lady said, "You have seen hell, where the souls of poor sinners go. To save them, God wishes to establish in the world devotion to my Immaculate Heart. If what I ask is done, many souls will be saved and there will be peace. There are so many souls whom the justice of God condemns for sins committed against me, that I have come to ask reparation." On December 10, 1925 Our Lady and the Child Jesus appeared to Sr Lucy of Fatima and revealed a heart

encircled by thorns. Jesus said: "Have compassion on the heart of your most holy Mother, covered with thorns with which ungrateful men pierce it at every moment, and there is no one to make an act of reparation." Our Lady then promised special graces to those who would live the devotion of the Five First Saturdays (cf. J. Flader, Question Time, n. 134). On October 31, 1942, 25 years after the apparitions at Fatima, Pope Pius XII consecrated the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, praying for peace at a crucial time in World War II. Pope John Paul II repeated the consecration in 1982 and again in 1984. Pope Pius XII extended the feast of the Immaculate Heart to the universal Church in 1944. The feast is now celebrated as a Memorial on the day after the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, so that the hearts of Jesus and Mary are seen to be closely united liturgically, as they are in reality. We do well to live this devotion in a spirit of love and reparation. Got a question for Fr Flader? Send it direct to him at: director@caec.com.au

June 24 2009, The Record

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PERSPECTIVES

Pray forMel?Pray for priests! 'The Slap' aced Isay A i sa ot By Mark Reidy

t may sound strange, but the recent public unravelling of Mel Gibson's life has caused me to reflect on the Church's declaration of the forthcoming Year for Priests (June 19, 2009 - June 11, 2010). When he produced The Passion of the Christ in 2004, Gibson brought Jesus to the masses like no other in history. In a short period of time millions across the world were exposed to his graphic and powerful presentation of Christ's final hours. The impact of how this portrayal ignited, reignited or deepened the faith of viewers can never be measured, but I would be confident in suggesting that it sparked a spiritual awakening for many. Since that time Gibson's life has spiralled out of control - drunken tirades, divorce - and now a pregnant girlfriend. It would be easy to dismiss his fall from grace as typical of the Hollywood machine, but I believe that we Catholics need to view Gibson's situation from a Christian, rather than a secular, perspective. In his second letter to the Corinthians St Paul lists the hardships that had befallen him during his own mission of evangelisation. He was whipped, beaten, stoned, imprisoned, shipwrecked, starved and regularly exposed to man-made and natural dangers. In many of his letters he beseeched believers to pray for him,

as he knew from personal experience that when one brings Christ to the world there is going to be opposition. I began to wonder how many people prayed for Mel Gibson from 2004 onwards. I certainly didn't. Yet here was a prominent figure who risked much to deliver a powerful form of evangelisation to the world. It made me realise that I should be praying for people such as Gibson, for their protection from the evil that St Peter says, "...prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1Peter 5:8). But this revelation then led me to a far greater spiritual neglect on my behalf. How often do I pray for our priests, those that the Catechism teaches us, by virtue of the sacrament of Holy Orders,

possess the authority to act in the power and place of the person of Christ himself"? (CCC 1548). It is little wonder that the Pope has announced the Year for Priests. With a continuous output of negative media and declining numbers in many countries, the divine nature of the priesthood is under attack and it appears that the appetite of the "prowling lion" is being sated. What better way would there be to wreak havoc upon the Church than to directly attack the priesthood, the ministry that provides us with the Eucharist, the very source and summit of our faith? Without it the Church would not exist. But we, the flock, are far from helpless in offering support for our shepherds. Pope Benedict is imploring us to pray for them as they try to live out their vocations in an increasingly difficult and hostile culture. It is essential, therefore, that this forthcoming year be a year of uplifting and restoration of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. We can do this in two ways. Firstly we must acknowledge and recognise the divine nature of the priestly calling and regularly pray, both individually and communally, for their protection. And secondly, we must acknowledge and recognise their humanity and reach out to them in our actions. We need to ask ourselves, or better still, ask our parish priest how we can best relate to them as a fellow brother of faith. When Jesus was at his most vulnerable in the Garden of Gethsemane He felt abandoned by his Apostles. In essence, when we allow our priests to live in spiritual or physical isolation, are we any different?

Was this sublime moment real? Being_ Heard By John Heard

'A Miracle of the Mass'

e cannot help attaching an outsize weight to coincidence and synchronicity. These are the clever names that we give, of course, to quite simple events that seem to hold much greater meaning. In the course of an otherwise ordinary day, something will happen, and it will seem to overflow the normal limits of meaning. The bare facts might never suggest some great wonder, and when retold, they seem to lose their spark, they are hard to communicate - but for a moment, a wondrous moment, some very magnificent thing rises before us. Try this one. A young man, not yet thirty, attends the holy sacrifice of the Mass. It is close to the Feast of the Sacred Heart, and he has a particular devotion to the Sacred Heart, but otherwise there is nothing outwardly starling about the event. The choir sings to the usual standard. The priest offers the Mass, and the faithful worship. As much as any of these things can be described as ordinary, this Sunday is ordinary. It would not qualify for inclusion in a Catholic's list of the "most memorable Sundays". Except, of course, that this Mass is different for the young man. For, you see, in the midst of all the wonder and meaning, all the miraculous

liturgical "wow" otherwise associated with a faithfully and beautifully offered Mass, there seems to be something in a minor key, a barely perceptible, but nagging melody - and it seems to sing just for him. At first he simply spies a note in the bulletin indicating that the organist will play J.S. Bach's Fugue in C (BWV 564) for the Recessional. Oh, the young man thinks. Very good. He has been listening to Bach's The Art of Fugue all week. The coincidence, as most are wont to be, is most surprising. He smiles. He sits still. He follows prayerfully as the Mass unfolds. The first reading is from the Book of Job. Strange, again, he thinks. He told a friend just last night that he likes the name Job, and he was set to thinking then about the man God tested so severely. Now he hears some of Job's story. The reading - as it is declaimed - is undeniably wondrous. God sets the boundaries of the sea, and works other miracles. It feels as though the reading answers the minor melody, and the whole thing is gaining force. What can it mean? The readings, summarised on the bulletin, run like this: Here I have set the boundaries of the sea (Job 3:1.8-11 Give thanks to the Lord, His love is everlasting (Psalm 106:23-26. 28-31) All things are made new (2 Corinthians 5:14-17) Who can this be? Even the wind and the sea obey him. (Mark 4:35-41) As each is proclaimed, and culminating in the Gospel, the young man is transfixed. There is a private meaning here, and a sense of purpose, that he feels he cannot ignore. Even the entrance hymn, and the motets are apposite. They seem to modify the metaphori-

cal melody, and take it to new places. He feels enormous gratitude. Meaning washes over him. It is as if the whole cathedral is ringing for him, well - not for Him, the sacrifice is Christ's, the sacrifice is Christ - but the young man feels the weight of that love coming down on him, specifically on him. He looks around to see if anyone else is enraptured. He breathes. He can't tell. He wonders if others can see anything unusual on his face. He is smiling gently, but there is no call for arm-flapping, and it would be wrong to shout. Still, he feels he must radiate. Now, the Mass is drawing to its end. How can a man parse that sort of experience? Psychologists, and those philosophers who believe there is nothing more to the world than matter (and perhaps time/ space) would turn to narrow readings. It was neuronal activity, something sparked in the man's hard wiring, and it produced an effect like déjà vu. I don't know about that, and I don't know what to think of the experience. It was mine, of course. I am the young man. On so-called personal revelation, the Church teaches that nothing that separates us from God can come from Him, but otherwise leaves it to the individual to "discern the spirits" (with the aid of a spiritual advisor), if prudent. I would not say that I had been blessed with any serious revelation, just the particular, and welcome sense that I am loved, and that the holy sacrifice of the Mass reaches out for me, that I am included among "the many". A Catholic must not get carried away. We are not superstitious. Still, the feeling is fresh on me, and the melody rings - in a key I now know by heart. "Do not forgot His mercies", it trills, "poured out in love for one so unworthy".

by teen novelist's perceptive eye

ears of disappointment still haven't entirely killed my optimism when opening a new modern novel of the acclaimed variety. The Slap, by Christos Tsiolkas, recently shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Award and winner of the 2009 Commonwealth Writers' Prize, is the latest offering I have sampled with high hopes. As the pages turned, my indignation rose higher. Briefly, the story uses a slap administered to a recalcitrant child by someone u nrelated to him at a barbeque as a vehicle to explore the with Catherine Parish lives of several different characters who were present at the time. Another slap occurs near the end, in whatIpresume is supposed to be a clever literary counterpoint. Sure, Tsiolkas ticks all the politically correct boxes - cultural identity and ethnicity, drugs, sexuality questions, alienation, relationships, family etc but his book fails to elicit that deep and spontaneous response, that recognition of deep human truth in a story or a character that marks out a worthwhile and memorable read. He has crafted a novel (and quite unevenly) but I can't quite work out for what market, unless it be for like-minded, politically correct souls who just happen to sit on literary judging panels. The further one gets into it, the worse it all seems. Supposedly an examination of middle Australia, it utterly fails to engage this reader who lives in this very milieu. It is almost as though the author is observing some half-seen rituals of an alien culture and writing them down in forensic detail, but without any true understanding of - or any wish to understand - what he is witnessing. He seems to have little empathy for those about whom he writes, a strange irony for an author. It is, oddly enough, quite puritanical in its condemnatory presentation of all these apparently irredeemably hypocritical, unpleasant people doing nasty things to each other. There seem to be no consequences or ramifications of some of the cataclysmically awful things that happen in the book. The Slap is a book entirely without a heart. Much can be forgiven an author if they have the ability to get under your skin with their story. But The Slap has tragically little of value to offer on any deep emotional terms. In so far as there is emotion, it tends towards visceral, reactionary anger and hatred. Tsiolkas seems to have the most trivial idea of human relationships; they are all so shallow, reduced to the most mechanical level, and there seems to be no warmth and no real love in any of the lives examined. Yet isn't that search for love and that conviction that we have at last found it, the driver in so many of our relationships, failed or successful? Isn't love really what we are all looking for? The human search, the human need for love is a far more compelling tale than all the cangsty; and sometimes downright disturbing, bed-hopping that goes on in The Slap. It is certainly why young women read novels like Twilight, the phenomenally successful teen novel by Stephenie Meyer. Whilst Ihave my reservations about Twilight, you can't deny that Meyer has much more successfully keyed into a deep and universally felt human truth that is totally absent from Tsiolkas's book. Just about everyone is looking for the possibility of love, that mutual recognition of a true soul mate, the one who will fill the empty space within our hearts, the one we are meant for and who is meant for us. Meyer's readers, it seems, don't want the hot and sweaty, heartless and meaningless grapplings of faithless people graphically described. They want that moment of high romance from which in our heart of hearts we ideally still segue into real love, and on into the lifelong task of melding two into one, of building something real and true and solid and lasting from that romance. It seems wicked that we are being asked to believe that faithful relationships are largely impossible, and sexual exploitation of various kinds, shallow infidelity and trashy one night stands are now the standard stuff of 'real life': Miserable stuff indeed.

Page 14

PANORAMA

June 24 2009, The Record

A roundup of events in the Archdiocese

Panorama entries must be in by 12pm Monday. Contributions may be emailed to administrationgtherecord.com.au, faxed to 9227 7087, or mailed to PO Box 75, Leederville, WA 6902. Submissions over 55 words will be edited. Inclusion is limited to 4 weeks. Events charging over $10 will be a put into classifieds and charged accordingly. The Record reserves the right to decline or modify any advertisment. Friday June 26 MEDJUGORJE EVENING OF PRAYER 7pm at Our Lady of the Mission, 270 Camberwarra Drive, Craigie. Adoration, Rosary, followed by Holy Mass. Free inspirational DVD on conversion of Fr Calloway given. All welcome. Enq: 9402 2480.

Friday July 3 PRAISE AND WORSHIP 7pm at St Peter's Church, 93 Wood Street, Inglewood, followed by Healing Mass, celebrant, Fr Roy Pereira and fellowship. Bring a plate, optional. All are welcome. Enq: Priscilla 0433 457 352 or Catherine 0433 923 083.

Saturday June 27 VOICE OF THE VOICELESS MINISTRY OF POPE JOHN PAUL II 12noon at Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Church, Corfield Street and lsdell Place, Gosnells. Adoration and Healing Mass, with the Voice of the Voiceless Music Ministry.All are welcome to attend. Enq: John 0437 286 301.

Saturday July 4 WITNESS FOR LIFE 8.30am at St Augustine's, Gladstone Road, Rivervale, Mass followed by Rosary procession and prayer vigil at abortion clinic, led by Columban Missionary priest, Fr Paul Carey Enq: Helen 9402 0349.

Saturday June 27 MORNING RETREAT Inner Freedom and Healing 9am to 12noon at John XXIII College, McKillop Room Multi-Purpose, presented by Murray Graham, lnigo Centre Director. Cost: Donation for Inigo Centre. Enq: Murray 9383 0444. Saturday June 27 ST PAUL RETREAT 9.30am at St Thomas More, Parish Hall, Dean Road, Bateman, concluding with Mass at 6.30pm. Finish the Year of St. Paul well with a day of retreat. Conducted by Redemptorist Fathers Hugh Thomas and Dominic Savio. Cost $25 includes lunch. Enq: Fr. Michael 0417 956 573 or 9223 1334. Sunday June 28 BULLSBROOK SHRINE PILGRIMS MASS 2pm at the Shrine of Virgin of the Revelation, 36 Chittering Road, Bullsbrook with Holy Rosary and Benediction. Reconciliation is available in English and Italian before every celebration. The side entrance to church and shrine is open daily between 9am and 5pm. Enq: SACRI: 9447 3292. Sunday June 28 GOSPEL CONCERT 1.30pm to 4.15pm at St Patrick's Basilica, Fremantle. Western Australia's finest gospel performers will come together for a traditional, ecumenical concert, providing quality, uplifting spiritual music with opportunity to participate. Profits will support Cross Roads Community in providing drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Tickets: $15 adults and $3 children. Only available, advance purchase. Enq: erichancock@swiftdsl.com.au or 9446 1558. Tuesday June 30 JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE TIMELINE Introduction to the Acts of the Apostles This 20-week study tells the story of the earliest days of the Church and shows how Christ's work continues through us in the Church today. Young women are invited to join the group who already meet on Tuesday nights at 8 San Miguel Drive, Leeming. Enq: Sr Ann 0409 602 927. Tuesday June 30 DAY OF REFLECTION (MMP) 10.30am Rosary at Villa Terenzio Chapel, Cabrini Road, Marangaroo, followed by Holy Mass and talks. Celebrant and speaker, Fr. Sharbel, Franciscan of the Immaculate. BYO shared lunch, tea and coffee provided. Enq: 9341 8082. Friday July 3 PRO-LIFE WITNESS 9.30am, at St Brigid's Midland, Mass, followed by Rosary procession and prayer vigil at abortion clinic, led by the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate. Enq: Helen 9402 0349. Friday July 3 CATHOLIC FAITH RENEWAL EVENING 7.30pm at St John and Paul's Parish, Pinetree Gully Road, Willetton. Songs of praise, followed by thanksgiving Mass and light refreshments. All welcome to attend bring family and friends. Enq: Kathy9295 0913, Rose 0403 300 720 or Maureen 9381 4498.

Saturday July 4 DAY WITH MARY 9am to 5pm at Good Shepherd Church, 215 Morley Drive East, Kiara, 9am Video on Fatima. Day of prayer and instruction based on the Fatima message. Reconciliation, Holy Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Sermons on Eucharist and Our Lady, Rosaries, Procession of the Blessed Sacrament and Stations of the Cross. BYO lunch. Enq: Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate 9250 8286. Sunday July 5 DIVINE MERCY 1.30pm at St Joachim's Church Shepperton Road and Harper Street, Victoria Park. Rosary and Reconciliation, Sermon on St Thomas the Apostle, with Fr Anthony Van Dyke OP, followed by Divine Mercy prayers and Benediction. Refreshments, followed by Video/DVD to be selected. Enq: 9457 7771 or Linda 9275 6608. Wednesday July 8 CHAPLETS OF THE DIVINE MERCY 7.30pm at St Thomas More Catholic Church, Dean Road, Bateman. A beautiful, prayerful, sung devotion accompanied by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and later Benediction. All are welcome. Enq: George 9310 9493 home, 9325 2010 work. Wednesday July 8 MONTHLY MASS IN HONOUR OF BLESSED MARY MACKILLOP 6pm Sisters of St Joseph's Chapel, 16 York Street, South Perth. Everyone welcome. Enq: Sr Maree 0414 683 926. Thursday July 9 to Sunday July 12 MARIAPOLIS 2009 - LOVE CREATES WISDOM 2pm at the Institute of Agriculture, Curtin University Campus, Muresk, Northam. Come for spiritual renewal. Emphasis will be on living the Gospel together and learning to build relationships based on Jesus' New Commandment, so as to take that experience back to our environment. Enq: 9349 4052 or www.focolare.org. Saturday July 11 ST PADRE PIO DAY OF PRAYER 8.30am at St Mary's, 40 Franklin Street, Leederville, St Padre Pio DVD, followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Divine Mercy, Silent Adoration and Benediction. llam Holy Mass using St Padre Pio Liturgy, celebrant Fr Tiziano Bogoni. Confessions available. BYO shared lunch. Tea and coffee supplied. Enq: Des 6278 1540. Sunday July 12 THE WORLD APOSTOLATE OF FATIMA AUST INC Holy Hour of Reparation. 3pm at St Mary's Church, Franklin Street, Leederville, all welcome. Enq: 9339 2614. Monday July 13 to Tuesday July 14 RAYMOND DE SOUZA AUSTRALIAN TOUR - TALKS 7.30pm at St Joseph's, 22 Hamilton Street, Bassendean, and 14 July at 12.30pm Bio Ethics Centre, Jugan Street, Glendalough, after the 10.30am Mass. Will talk on De-Christianisation, the Culture War and the Gospel of Life. 7.30pm St Bernadette's, Jugan Street, Glendalough talk on The Third Secret of Fatima, what was it all about? Enq: Geoff 0418 933 152.

Tuesday July 14 to Tuesday July 21 FR CARLOS MASSIEU MASSES AND TALKS ON THE COMING OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD 10.30am-12noon 14 July, St Bernadette's Church, Glendalough. 14 and 15 July Oceania Vocations Conference. 7.30pm-9pm, 17 July, St Brigid's Church, Midland. 18 July Casa di Luisa Piccarreta, 59 Newton Street, Spearwood, 2pm-4pm. 19 July Corpus Christi, Mosman Park, (Spanish). 20 July Casa di Luisa Piccarreta, 10am-2pm. 20 July, Christ the King, Beaconsfield, 7pm8.30pm, (Italian). 21 July Casa di Luisa Piccarreta, 10am2pm. 21 July, Casa di Luisa Piccarreta, 7.30pm-9pm. Enq: Jenny 9494 2604. Wednesday July 15 to Sunday July 19 C YM HOPE CONFERENCE Chisholm Catholic College, 1104 Beaufort Street, Bedford. Based on the WYD09 Theme from 1Tim 4:10 and the Pope's 2007 Encyclical 'Spe Salvil The conference will include seminars, workshops, guest speakers, music, drama and other activities to inspire and empower our youth. Open for youth teenagers to 35 years. Enq: admin@cym.com.au or 9422 7912. Thursday July 16 INTRODUCTION TO PASTORAL CARE 9am to 12.30pm at Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation, 8 week course covering people skills, different behaviours. Principles of Christian counselling and, applying theory in diverse pastoral care situations. Enq: Jane 0401 692 690. Thursday July 16 CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP 9am to 12.30pm Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation, 8 week course exploring basic principles of Christian Leadership and how to grow in leadership. Practical aspects and dynamics of living in the Body of Christ, how to grow in participation and service in the life of a Christian Community. Enq: Jane 0401 692 690. Thursday July 16 YOUTH MINISTRY 9am to 12.30pm Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation, 8 week course covers the 5 key aspects in ministering to young people today. Learn strategies that help to evangelise youth, how to provide opportunities for fellowship and discipleship. Investigate how to engage young people in active ministry to their peers. Enq: Jane 0401 692 690. Thursday July 16 MID -YEAR INTAKE FULL TIME COURSE Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation, Certificate IV in Christian Ministry. Learn more about the Catholic faith, evangelisation, communication, your spiritual gifts and sacred scripture. This is a life changing experience. Enq: Jane 0401 692 690. Saturday July 18 ST PADRE PIO DAY OF PRAYER - ITALIAN 8.30am at St Lawrence Church, 392 Albert Street, Balcatta, St Padre Pio DVD, followed by Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Divine Mercy, Silent Adoration and Benediction. 1lam Holy Mass using St Padre Pio Liturgy, celebrant Fr Tiziano Bogoni. Confessions available. BYO shared lunch. Tea and coffee supplied. Enq: Des 6278 1540. Monday July 20 to Tuesday July 21 ELECTIONS AND FRATERNAL VISIT Fr Michael Brown OFM, WA Regional Minister and a member of the WA Regional Executive of the Secular Franciscans will be in Geraldton for elections and on fraternal visit. Anyone interested in learning more about the Franciscan way of life should contact, Helen 08 9937 1052 or Colleen 08 9921 3315. Saturday July 25 to Sunday July 26 400 YEARS CELEBRATION FOR LORETO SISTERS Three Springs Parish 6.30pm Saturday at Three Springs Shire Hall, dinner.

1 lam Sunday Mass held in St Paul's Church followed by BBQ lunch. Accommodation, Three Springs Tourist Lodge 9954 1065 or Commercial Hotel: 9954 104. Those wishing to attend these celebrations, please advice ASAP by June 31. Enq: Convent: 9954 1010 or Myrtle 9954 1135, or jackkeogh(cPwn.com.au Sunday July 26 ST ANNE'S BINDOON FIFTH ANNIVERSARY MASS AND BLESSING OF GROTTO 12noon BYO Lunch, followed 1pm Holy Rosary, Exposition, Hymns, Benediction. 1.30pm Marian Procession and blessing of the Grotto. 2pm Holy Mass, Main Celebrant Bishop Sproxton, followed by Chaplet of Divine Mercy and tea. Depart for Perth 4pm. Transport booking: Francis 9459-3873 or 0404 893 877. Enq: Jean 9576-0006 or Fr Paul 95711839. Thursday July 28 PRAYER DAY Reflecting on Hope with Mary MacKillop, 9.30am at Mary MacKillop Centre, 16 York Street, South Perth, from 10am to 1pm, talk on, facilitated by, Dora Maguire, RSJ. RSVP: Monday 20 July. Cost, donation. Enq: marymackillopcentretsosjwa.org.au or 9334 0999. Friday July 31 MEDJUGORJE - EVENING OF PRAYER 7pm at St Anne's Catholic Church, Stirling Highway and Alfred Road, North Fremantle. All are invited to an evening of prayer with Our Lady Queen of Peace. Evening commences with Adoration, Rosary, and Benediction, followed by Holy Mass. Free DVD on conversion of Don Calloway who was drug addict, committing felonies but later became a Catholic priest. Enq: 9402 2480. Friday August 7 to Sunday August 9 BEGINNING EXPERIENCE WEEKEND PROGRAME SEPARATED, DIVORCED, WIDOWED A weekend programe at Epiphany Retreat Centre, Rossmoyne, designed to assist and support people in learning to close the door gently on a relationship that has ended, in order to get on with living. Enq: Maureen 9537 115 or Bev 9332 7971.

AL-ANON/ALATEEN FAMILY GROUPS If your home is unhappy because someone drinks too much. . .. We can help you. For understanding and support to families and friends of problem drinkers. Enq: 9325 7528. Every Sunday LATIN MASS 2pm at the Good Shepherd Parish, 40-42 Streich Avenue, Kelmscott, according to the 1962 missal, with Rosary preceding. All welcome. Every 1st Thursday of the Month PRAYER AND MEDITATION SERVICE - TAIZE SONGS. 7.30pm at Our Lady of Grace, 3 Kitchener Street, North Beach, come for a prayerful meditation singing together beautiful easy to learn chants from Taize. Spend time in meditative silence, bathed in candlelight reflecting upon themed readings. Enq: Beth 9447 0061 or 9448 4888. Every First Friday HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS TO THE PRIESTHOOD AND RELIGIOUS LIFE 7pm at the Little Sisters of the Poor Chapel, 2 Rawlins Street, Glendalough. Mass celebrated by Fr Sam inedi followed by Adoration with Fr Don Kettle. All welcome. Every 2nd Saturday of the Month DIVINE MERCY HEALING MASS 2.30pm to 3.30pm at St Francis Xavier Church, Windsor Street, East Perth, Reconciliation will also be available with Fr Marcellinus Meilak. Refreshments will be provided. Enq: 9457 7771.

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June 24 2009, The Record

Page 15

CLASSIFIEDS

aall

MISSION MATTERS

Walking with Him Daily Mass Readings 28 S 13TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Gr Wis 1:13-15;2:23-24 In God's image Ps 29:2.4-6.11-13 God comes to help 2Cor 8:7.9.13-15 Be generous Mk 5:21-43 Do not fear. Believe 29 M SS PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES Solemnity Red Vigil Mass Acts 3:1-10 All astonished Ps 18:2-5 Work of God's hands Gal 1:11-20 Specially chosen in 21:15-19 Peter upset Mass during the day Acts 12:1-11 Peter in prison Ps 33:2-9 Glorify the Lord 2Tim 4:6-8.17-18 The good fight Mt 16:13-19 You are the Christ

CC ...Do not be afraid; only have Faith..." The work of our missionary Church gives witness to the strong faith of suffering people in poor & marginalized communities throughout the world. It is their Faith that gives them the courage to face daily adversity. And like the family of the little girl in today's Gospel, it is their faith that opens them to the healing & life-giving presence of Jesus. I am reminded of the many families I visited on the refugee settlement where I also lived. Their infant children had succumbed to malaria that wasn't treated in time. The clinic was too far away for them to take their desperately sick children on foot through the heavy rain. My mercy dash was in vain. Their Faith, their grace, in the face of their terrible and in many cases unnecessary loss is something that will always stay with me... a reminder to not be afraid; only have Faith.

30 T The First Martyrs of the Church of Rome (0) Gr Gen 19:15-29 The Lord pities Lot Ps 25:2-3.9-12 Path of perfection Mt 8:23-27 A violent storm 1W Gr Gen 21:5.8-20 Abraham distressed Ps 33:7-8.10-13 Cry of the poor Mt 8:2834 Two demoniacs 2 Th Gen 22:1-19 A burnt offering Gr Ps 114:1-6.8- 9 Cry of my appeal Mt 9:1-8 Crowd praised God 3 F St Thomas, apostle Feast Red Eph 2:19-22 You are citizens Ps 116:1-2 Praise the Lord in 20:24-29 Peace be with you 4 S St Elizabeth of Portugal (0) Gr Gen 27:1-5.15-29 Isaac deceived Ps 134:1-6 Praise God's name Mt 9:14-17 The time will come

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Letters to the editor

Marriage proposal

behalf of the Australian Family Association, the National Marriage Coalition, and the National Marriage Day Committee,I wish to invite all to the inaugural National Marriage Day celebration which will take place on August 13 with a breakfast in the Great Hall, Parliament House, Canberra. The Australian Family Association and others in the marriage and family movement, have worked for many years to promote the social good of marriage and yet despite its efforts and volumes of research demonstrating, beyond doubt, the positive contribution that intact, stable marriages make to the well-being of children and society, little has happened on the policy front to really foster the formation of stable, married couple families. Divorce levels seem to have plateaued, but de facto and lone parent families continue to increase. If this trend is not halted, Australian society will become more deeply divided between high income married parent families and low income single and defacto parent families and witness a poverty spiral, with its attendant social consequences. Dr Samantha Callan, co-author of the Breakthrough Britain Report 2006, says that the correlations between family breakdown and the other pathways to poverty, educational failure, serious personal debt, crime, welfare dependency and addiction, are undeniable. Marriage is the key. We believe that Australia needs to invest in it now if it is to deliver the best opportunities for its children in the future. It is for this reason that the inaugural National Marriage Day celebration will highlight the unique benefits of marriage and seek to lay the foundations for a renewed culture of marriage within our nation. The National Marriage Day Celebration Breakfast will il

call for the 13th August to be dedicated as National Marriage Day. You are invited to go to www.marriageday.org.au and download and circulate the petition for this purpose. Join dignitaries, academics, public figures and representatives of the family movement as internationally acclaimed speaker, Dr James Bogle, puts the spotlight on marriage. Be there for the announcement of the first National Marriage Day Ambassadors, to hear inspirational stories of fidelity, courage, love and forgiveness, the launching of a youth report, and lots more.

blueprint

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the millennium development goals and you An interactive exhibition on tackling poverty in the world

Mary-Louise Fowler National Vice President Australian Family Association

Resolving the impasse HALIFAX, Nova Scotia (CNS) Unresolved "impasses— in theology and in church life lead to c ounterproductive stalemates that "stunt" the growth of the church, according to the outgoing president of the Catholic Theological Society of America. "Academic stalemates may be rather benign, but stalemates in real life can be malignant," said Terrence W. Tilley, chairman of the theology department at Fordham University. "Real-life stalemates can be quite vicious, even destructive. These malignant stalemates destroyed the possibility of ecclesial unity - and will not be overcome as long as the shepherds of one flock demand that separated brethren repent of their errors to be accepted back into their sheepfold," Tilley said on June 7 at the close of the CTSA's convention in Halifax.

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