Prying with John Paul II MARCH General: For the ecclesiastical organisations and groups engaged in social action that in their testimony they may proclaim strongly and consistently the Gospel of love. Missionary: That the peoples of the African ;fitment, receiving with a generous heart :ne Gospel's message of truth and liberation, may dedicate themselves actively to promoting reconciliation and solidarity.
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THIS WEEK PARISHES COME TO THE FORE.... Armadale turns Coolgardie Pillar of Fire: on its three day celebrates a Whitfords unveils parish retreat centenary a new tabernacle - Page - Page 9 - Page 8
Middle East peace plea By John Thavis VAI1CAN CITY (CNS) - During the worst violence between Palestinians and Israelis in 20 years. church leaders urged leaders of both sides to return immediately to the negotiation table and break the cycle of bloody attacks. Catholic institutions and parishes were caught in the crossfire of the violence, which left more than 100 Palestinians and 50 Israelis dead in the first 10 days of March. An Israeli missile hit the churchrun Bethlehem University, and other shells struck a parish school In the city. At the Vatican. Pope John Paul II called for an immediate cease-fire and respect for international law in the embattled region. Speaking on March 3. he said the news from Jerusalem had deeply saddened him. "The violence, death and reprisal can only push civilian populations. whether Israeli or Palestinian. toward desperation and hatred. May an immediate cease-fire, together with a renewed sense of humanity and the respect of international law. silence the weapons and allow peace to be heard in the region," he said. On March 9, the heads of
An Israeli policeman searches a bomb site near the home of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon in Jerusalem Palestinian suicide bomber killed 11 and wounded 50 at a Jerusalem cafe in the worst violence in 20 years.
churches in Jerusalem issued a similar appeal in a letter titled, "A Call to All the People of the Holy Land." It expressed deep concern
over the spiralling violence and called on "everyone to take the appropriate measures to stop further massacres or tragedies for
our two peoples." Latin Patriarch Michel Sabbah and the Franciscan custodian of the Holy Land. Father Giovanni Battistelli, were
among the 13 signatories of the letter. "We deplore the increase of the injured people because of killing, shelling, bombarding and incursion. We ask: Is this the future that we all want for our children?" the church leaders said. The key to a just peace is in the hands of both the Israelis and Palestinians, they said. "War, shelling and destruction will not bring justice and security; rather it will intensify hatred and bitterness," said the letter. It called on Israel to stop using heavy weaponry and urged the Palestinians to end all violent response. At Bethlehem University on the night of March 8. an Israeli guided missile broke through a stoneclad reinforced concrete wall and blasted out windows on two floors, damaging two classrooms. said a press release from the university. No one was injured. The university rector, Christian Brother Vincent Malham. called for pressure to be put on Israel to withdraw its forces immediately from all Palestinian territories and called for international intervention to help the two sides return to the negotiating table. Continued - Page 2
Mandurah students Kenyan Mercy missi By Neil Smith
out home visits, organise sporting tournaments, proSeven students and three duce a drama and act as staff from the Mandurah Catholic College are travel- general helpers and carers ling to Kenya next month to with the nuns. They will be work among the poor with billeted with Kenyan famithe Irish Sisters of Mercy lies. Even the trip to Kenya is an and the Danish. DKA sisters. The students will work in adventure. With no direct the shantytown slums of flights available, they need Kenya's capital, Nairobi to fly to Mauritius, transiting from April 19 to May 12. there for two days, before flyThey will come face-to- ing on to Nairobi. As part of face with sufferers of AIDS, their preparation they have tuberculosis and a myriad attended lectures by experts of other health problems i that face Third World coun- n the physical and pastoral Some of the Mandurah Catholic College team to visit Nairobi next month study an atlas of east Africa. They are, from left, Hialeah Feamhead, Abby Johansen, Sister Katherine Kettries. The students are aged care of AIDS sufferers. tle, Jenna Wooltorton, Matthew Snowden and Mrs Jo Neagle. Photo Ned Snwth from 15 to 18. and will carry Confirmed - Page 2
A Shepherd speaks Bishop Holohan of Bunbury spoke at Masses last weekend to congregations of parishes where a priest has been charged. - Page 11
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Four young men's generosity gives me joy L
ast Sunday four young men from St Charles' Seminary were publicly accepted as candidates for Holy Orders in a ceremony known as "Candidacy". Candidacy is a two-way process. On the one hand men express their willingness to the local bishop to be priests of the future. On the other hand the bishop, after careful discernment, accepts them officially in the name of the Church as candidates for Holy Orders. From that moment on they may proceed to the Order of Deacon and the Order of Priest. A vocation to the priesthood is both a personal call from Christ and a public call from the Church, through the local Bishop. No-one has a right to ordination. One must be called by God and be called by the Church. That is why lobbies for ordination by different groups in the Church cannot suc-
Today priests do not have an ways of attracting vocations. ceed if the Church is unable to • The Bishop is to make ordain them. Governments might easy time. Public standards have change their policies through taken their toll on morale and loss vocations his main priority. It is not good enough simply to delepowerful lobbies, but on funda- of status. The changing nature of society gate this responsibility to others. mental matters of faith or morals • Each priest is to be a vocathe Church cannot bow to lob- has thrown traditional models of bies. She must remain faithful to priesthood into some confusion tions director in his own right. her mandate from Christ himself. as priests try to come to terms Therefore he must be positive with the pace of change in order about his own priesthood and But I digress. I was overjoyed to hear the will- to bring the Good News to the want others to follow his own ingness of these four young men lives of people caught up in the footsteps. • We have to convince parto be admitted to Holy Orders, confusion caused by change. Please pray for our priests and ents that their sons will be happy and praised God for their faith and noble desire to follow Christ especially for our seminarians if they become priests. There is as his priest. To be a priest today during their time of preparation too much negativity about the priesthood that needs to be is no easy step. One has to give for the work ahead. The Rector of the American Col- reversed. Parents want their chilup marriage and family life, riches and ambition and, to a great lege in Rome, Mgr Timothy dren to be happy, and therefore extent, personal freedom. To be a Dolan, spoke of vocations during need to see priests happy, enthusiastic and fulfilled in their vocapriest is to commit oneself to a life the Year of the Great Jubilee. of service, under the guidance of He pointed out that we need to tion. These are excellent proposals. a Bishop or Superior, and to spend increase dramatically the number oneself on behalf of the people as of young men offering themselves Despite all the negative press about the Church and Bishops a spiritual guide, minister of the for the priesthood. Sacraments and good shepherd. He spoke of three important and priests at present, let us all
Pell warns against 'rule of the dollar' for health Catholic health should not become 'submerged in finance', Archbishop George Pell of Sydney said on a visit to the Darlinghurst campus of the recently amalgamated St Vincent's and Mater Health Sydney reported the Catholic Telecommunications web site. 'For example,' he told The Catholic Weekly, 'I never like patients to be referred to as clients." 'I don't like that sort of economic language because it can really start to influence ways of thinking. We're here to serve people,' the archbishop said. 'That humanitarian (aspect) is central to the Catholic tradition.' Dr Pell described St Vincent's and Mater Health as a flagship of Catholic health and a national front-runner in heart and lung transplant surgery. 'It's a great organ of service and I certainly will do everything to see that it maintains this level of service and that it maintains and even improves its forefront position in medicine and in research.'
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retain our belief in the extraordinary importance of the priesthood for the life of the Church and love and support our priests.
Leaders call for peace Continued from Page 1 Bethlehem parish priest Franciscan Father AmIad Sabbara said "The situation is very bad: as he waited with others on March 9 on their way to the funerals of four Palestinians killed in the Dehiyshe refugee camp in Bethlehem. "Blood is calling more blood and there is more hatred between the two nations. Now there will be the funeral of four people. We are asking the governments to give us real peace and replace hate with real love," he said. Israeli tanks rolled through the West Bank towns of Belt Jana and Belt Sahour, forcing residents to remain indoors for several days, said Father Majdi al-Siryani, Belt Sahour parish priest. The violence in early March included a series of deadly attacks and incursions on both sides:
• Palestinian gunmen and suicide bombers carried out several deadly attacks against Israeli military and civilian targets, including a bomb blast that killed 11 Israelis and wounded 50 others at a Jerusalem cafe. • Israeli forces on March 10 destroyed the Gaza headquarters of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, who has been confined to Ramallah by Israeli troops since December. While the many acts of violence on both sides were decried by church leaders, two attacks near Arab schools drew An Israeli soldier stands guard during a search a more specific condemnation from the at a refugee camp on March 10. Vatican newspaper. L'Osservatore • Israeli troops for the first time Romano. The newspaper also conattacked Palestinian refugee camps with demned what it called the "indifference ground troops, tanks and helicopters. of the international community" to the leaving dozens dead, including several targeting of children in the worsening civilians. conflict.
Students and staff head off Boots 'n' all to a Kenyan Mercy mission Continued form Page 2 Leader of the group, the college's pastoral councillor, Sister Katherine Kettle, said this week there had been 18 months preparation for the visit. It was initially planned for last year, but the terror attacks in New York and Washington on September 11 had meant plans had to be altered. A number of other students who had planned to go on the visit had to cancel after the delay because of university corn-
mitments. Students had discussed going to the Philippines or Cambodia, but decided on Kenya as somewhere different to destinations of some other Perth colleges such as 'ninny, John XXIII and Aquinas. The students going on the visit are: Hialeah Fearnhead, Matthew Snowden, jenna Wooltorton, Abby Johansen, Ashlee Mulvey, Adam Rizzi and Evan Dickson. Staff members are Sister Katherine Kettle, Mrs Jo Neagle, and Steve Biggs.
Students travelling to Kenya next month have appealed for boots - old footy boots, gym boots, sandshoes and trainers. They are taking them to Nairobi to pass on to local people for soccer matches they will be organising while there. The student team has already raised $24,000 to cover their travel expenses, although any further donations would be welcome. Cake stalls are to he held at the Mandurah parish centre on Saturdays until their departure.
The Divisional Mission Leader will be based at our Geraldton hospital, which provides health care services to Geraldton and the wider Midwest Region. The region is home to approximately 45.000 people. Geraldton is a friendly coastal community enjoying a warm climate with a wide range of social, sporting and cultural activities. The successful applicant will be a member of the senior leadership team of the hospital, and will be the principal resource person for senior leaders and all staff, assisting them to understand and participate in the Mission and Values of the organisation. As a result, an integral part of your role is to ensure that the Mission and Values are vital and central to the hospital's activities. To succeed in this exciting role, you will be able to demonstrate: • A strong capacity to promote the Catholic identity and thc Mission and Values of St John of God Health Care. • A record of achievement as a collaborative leader. involving change management in a complex and challenging environment. Personal qualities will be of prime importance. We require a person who is enthused by the healing mission of Jesus Christ, with the appropriate spiritual and human qualities to meet challenges of a contemporary Catholic. not-for-profit organisation.
It makes sense to put your trust in the people who have handled more funerals in your community than anyone else. For any information on pre-paid funerals, monumental selection, community education or female funeral directors, please call any of our local offices.
The successful applicant will be required to perform these duties over 48 hours per fortnight. with the potential for increased hours if required. A salary package will be negotiated commensurate with experience.
OVVRA & O'DEA
A position description and selection criteria can be obtained by contacting Mrs Margaret Currie. Executive Assistant to the National Mission Leader, on telephone (08) 9213 3639 or by email margaret.currie@sjog.org.au
VINT:RAI DIRE( I(
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The Record, March 14 2002 Page 2
cL)eanne O'DEA
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'Wrongful life' far from sanity prayer and renewed faith in His goodness and renewed desire to A 'wrongful life' court case in live within that goodness. Sydney creates a dangerous The secretary of the Coalition precedent and opens a variety of for the Defence of Human Life, Dr issues posing a threat to Catholic Ted Watt, described the philosoideals. phy behind the litigation as 'proThe Archbishop of Perth, Barry moting euthanasia in advance.' Hickey, was in Canberra this Dr Watt said life until now had week, but Auxiliary Bishop Don regarded in legal and moral been Sproxton said the term 'wrongful as a benefit. terms life' showed just how far removed Successful litigation of this sort society was from the sanity and would cast a legal doubt on life as sanctity of life. benefit and redefine the whole a 'When we wander from the path view of life. legalistic of truth, we wander into the endview would be in An extreme less, nothingness predicted by those who want the world to criminal cases where taking of life would not be regarded as serious believe God is dead. 'History will record that first we - where someone may with intent divorced human love and sexual- or negligence sabotage the safety ity from life by contraception,' or roadworthiness of a motor vehicle, leading to a death, and Bishop Sproxton said. 'Then we divorced contracep- not be regarded culpable. He called for 'a louder, pro-life tion from human love and sexumedical lobby' to pressure govality by in vitro fertilisation. 'Then we made the right to life ernments to introduce legislation that would provide greater proarbitrary by legalising abortion. 'And now it seems we are about tection for life. There was already a number of to start suing and punishing peoCatholic and Protestant medical ple for not killing our children.' Bishop Sproxton said that faced groups, but they had achieved litwith such a decline, people could tle in 1998 when the abortion only turn to God with fervent debate was pursued through the
of parallel precedents. In 1972, a pregnant woman in a traffic accident in Victoria, and her unborn daughter, were injured. After police successfully prosecuted the driver of the other car involved, establishing negligence, the woman successfully sued for damages for herself, and later, after the birth of her daughter, for damages for disabilities resulting from injuries received in the accident. There had been a similar case where a disabled child had sued a tramway authority in a Canadian city. Dr Watt said the issue would raise legal argument on the duty of care and any alleged negli-
By Neil Smith
Bishop Sproxton
Western Australian parliament. A court in France had ruled against such a case - a ruling later supported by legislation by the French government. The legislation in France was later found to be wanting in some aspects, Dr Watt said, but could be used a model for Australia. Australia already had a number
gence in the medical team handling the care of the pregnant mother. There would be legal argument a doctor failing to detect a foetal disability was negligent, or that one omitting to advise a parent of such a condition had failed in a duty of care. It would be an added burden for medical practitioners already facing big increases in insurance premiums resulting from litigation in other aspects of their practices. If a doctor advised a parent of a foetal disability, it would then be a clear choice by the parent. Successful litigation in 'wrongful life' clearly diminished the 'benefit' definition, and opened a whole range of new issues.
Restoration planned for Hawes' Church
Wilson defends Vatican guidelines A new Vatican document for internal processes to be used by the church when dealing with allegations of abuse by priests does not seek to sidestep or hinder any civil court action over the issue. Adelaide's Archbishop Philip Wilson has said. A report on the Catholic Telecommunications web site said Adelaide's Catholic Southern Cross reported Archbishop Wilson's advice that it's important that Catholics and the wider community understood this. Some media reports had suggested that the new processes were an attempt to frustrate the civil courts by dealing with allegations of clergy sex abuse in secret, he said. He said the Vatican was not advocating the use of secret ecclesiastical courts rather than civil courts to deal with sex abuse cases, instead it had set out the procedures to he used by the church in dealing with issues associated with paedophilia. after the civil courts had done their work and irrespective of the decisions taken by a civil court. 'In fact, even if a civil court dismisses a charge of sex abuse against a member of the clergy, this document ensures the church
The Parish The Nation The World News of the Church In
The Record
Plans for restoration - Carnarvon's St Mary's Church. Photo courtesy
So,'
Archbishop Wilson of Adelaide at his installation Mass.
continues to conduct its own investigations into the matter to ensure the person involved is fit to resume ministry.' Archbishop Wilson said. 'And irrespective of the civil proceedings, we are also committed to dealing with those who are victims of sex abuse. 'In Australia, the Catholic Church is committed to the provision of its Towards Healing docthat ument stipulates when such a crime is alleged it must be referred first to
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civil authorities. Towards Healing also sets out professional and compassionate steps for providing mediation and counselling for the alleged victims.' In his four years as Bishop of Wollongong. before being appointed Archbishop of Adelaide, Archbishop Wilson was dubbed 'the healing bishop' by the local media for his rigorous policy of dealing with allegations of clergy sex abuse.
Parishioners at Carnarvon are working to restore the 87-yearold St Mary's Church. Dean John Hawes, the legendary priest-architect of Geraldton, designed the church which was built in 1935. It has since survived many cyclones and its site on a low hilltop has protected it from the town's frequent floods. The $70,000 project was first mooted about three years ago and is gathering momentum, the
WORLD YOUTH DAY IS COMING.
Brothers of St John of God are men of hospitality
who have for over five centuries given themselves to be a brotherly presence: a symbol of hope for the world, proclaiming God's hospitable love to all. Their core value - hospitality - compels and urges them to depth their relationship with God, and with those marginalised by society.
Are you interested in a life dedicated to hospitality? Br. John Clegg Vocation Director PO Box BN 1055 BURWOOD NORTH NSW 2134 Tel: 02-97471699 Fax: 02-744 3262 Email: jclegg@stjohnofgod.org.au Website: www.stjohnofgod.org.au
parish priest, Father Boguslaw Loshka, said this week. 'The first part of the project is to replace the asbestos roof.' Fr Loshka said. Then we intend repainting the interior and replacing the electrical wiring.' he said. Fr Loshka, who celebrated the first anniversary of his arrival from Salesia in Poland in January, said the work would be done progressively. - Neil Smith
11—
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CARITAS: Project Compassion 2002
Aussie dollars help Pacific islanders build lives Simon's home is an island. A fisherman from Kiribati, Simon depends on the sea for his livelihood. Located in the Central Pacific, Kiribati is made up of 33 coral atolls. In 32 of those islands, the highest point is just two metres above sea level. The sea plays a vital role for the people of Kiribati. The tides determine when people travel and fish is a staple in their diet. The sea
impacts on the delivery of basic services such as health, education and communications. The Kiribati are literally 'People of the Sea'. The Kiribati, however, live a fragile existence due to their dependence on the sea. The effects of global warming and the rising sea level are beginning to have an impact on the tiny Pacific nation. On some of the outer islands, buildings have been
Only widespread reduction in energy use will lead to a reduction in global warming. Caritas Australia is also supporting a project that meets some of the short-term needs of Simon and his fishing community. We provided funding for the purchase of a boat which Simon's fishing community uses to take their catch to market. Simon is a great example of the potential for living simply, and reducing consumption. He has been fishing for nearly 12 years. 'For a whileI worked for the government and lived on the main island, but I decided to come here to work as a fisherman.I did earn a lot more money working for the government but the more money I had the more things I seemed to need and want. Coming back here you don't need much, so we can live simply.' Caritas Australia is assisting traditional fishing communities to build a livelihood within their home communities. We are also working towards the long term preservation of the precious Kiribati environment, threatened by global warming.
displaced and destroyed or relocated away from the rising tides. Some of the islands are only several hundred metres wide, so this effect is quite profound. It has been estimated that some of the islands may disappear in less than fifty years. Caritas Australia is conducting education campaigns in both Kiribati and Australia about the increasing threat of global warming and its impact on Kiribati.
Donations to Project Compas-
L
Monica surprises me though. Polio is a major problem. It makes you think. How much does one vaccination cost? Looking around these familiar faces, the few dollars we've each thrown in will change someone's life. 'Someone offers me a dry bread roll and a statistic- 60% of the world's people live on less than $2 a day. *It's been a long time since Christmas 1984. Bob Geldof and Band Md. Some of the kids helped then will now be leading full and happy lives. "Somehow facts and figures only seem to measure the work
Catholic fund brokers home loans Tasmania's Catholic Develop-
settlement and trail commisment Fund (CDF) is getting into sions - from every settled loan." the business of brokering home The monies received will mean, loans. the Catholic Telecommu- in turn, lower loan rates for nications web site has reported. schools, parishes and other The Standard newspaper Church institutions. It could also reports that a link has been mean a greater donation from established with a leading home the CDF to Archdiocesan funds. loan institution to ensure comVarious options such as fixed petitive rates and services for and variable rates and a partthose who take up the deal. fixed, part-variable rate would CDF Manager, Mr Peter be offered, Mr Ryan said. Cusick, said this was a first for There would be no establishthe Catholic Church in Aus- ment or ongoing fees although tralia. normal Government fees would 'Tasmania's Catholic Develop- apply. At the time of going to ment Fund is the first CDF in the press, the current variable rate Australian Church to open up was 5.74 per cent per annum. this source of revenue for its dio'This will provide a great cese,' he said. opportunity for people to supMr Cusick explained that by port the Church through the brokering home loans, CDF CDF while benefiting themwould not be using its own selves,' he said. 'Home owners money but would reap the ben- will receive a great deal the efits. "The CDF will receive com- Church will benefit and there is mission payments - both no risk to Church funds.'
News of the parish, the nation, the world Find it in
The Record The Record. March 14 2002 Page 4
sion can be made by calling 1800 024 413 or send your contribution to Caritas Australia. GPO Box 9830 in your capital city or visit our website www.caritas.oni.au
Got your tickets yet?
Maylands parishioners do something for people in need In other parts of the world,
as t Saturday morning Queen of Martyrs Parish, Maylands, held its annual Lenten Breakfast for Project Compassion. The meeting was briefed on Caritas projects with partner agencies in Cambodia by Monica Mulcahy, recently returned from a Think Globally Act Locally visit. This reflection was written by one of the attending parishioners. 'Hello alarm clock Rather a late Friday night. Oops. No time for the usual leisurely breakfast. Down to the Church Hall.I think I know all about Cambodia already. The land mines horror.
Simon, a fisherman from Kiribati, uses a community boat provided by Caritas Australia, to ship his produce to market. Photo: Mathias Heng
still to be done, the overflowing
too-hard basket. We can't put a percentage on all the problems that were headed off by a few dollars early in the piece. 'Time to go. There's a bag of bread rolls left over. Outside a young mum is trudging up to the phone box with four young children. Harrassecl and dejected, heat and dust. Ibalance the big bag of rolls on her stroller. "Don't let them fall off!' Thanks mister'. A few dollars and some bread rolls. We're all part of the same story.' - John O'Neill
The St Brigid's College oval. Lesmurdie, will be the venue for a foot-tapping night on Saturday.
Man:h 23.
The hills will be alive with the sound of music to cheer your heart and set your feet dancing for a twilight concert in aid of Caritas. from 6.30 to 10.30pm. Television personality. Sonia Vinci and music man Mike O'Meara are to host the program of a range of variety and song, featuring the renowned bush band. the Numguts, Chris McMillan on piano and soprano. Rebecca Bird. They will be supported by the St Brigid's College choir.
Caritas Australia, beneficiary of the concert, provides assistance to needy and homeless families in underdeveloped countries as diverse as Uganda, Nepal. West Papua. East Timor and indigenous Australians. The organisation funds relief supplies of food, education and health in many places of the world. People are invited to bring picnic dinners and enjoy the tranquil bushland setting. Barbecue packs and drinks will be available. Tickets can be obtained from local pharmacies, parishes, and schools or by phoning 9453 1720.
US priest, parishioner, WFP aid cuts shot dead during Mass criticised LYNBROOK N.Y. (CNS) -- A Long Island priest and a 73-yearold parishioner were killed by a
gunman during morning Mass on March 12. Father Lawrence Penzes, 50, and Eileen Tosner were shot just after the priest finished the homily during the 9am Mass at Our Lady of Peace Church in Lynbrook, according to Karen Montalbano, a spokeswoman for the Rockville Centre Diocese. Associated Press reported that Father Penzes was shot in the back and Tosner was shot in the face. About seven hours later police captured a suspect after storming a nearby apartment where he had been holed up all day. The man reportedly had been fired from a custodian job at the parish. Father Penzes was taken to Mercy Medical Centre in Rockville Centre, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving. Tosner was pronounced dead at the church. No one else was shot, although several members of the congregation went to area hospitals. A police spokesman told the Long Island daily newspaper, Newsday, that the gunman fled after firing the shots. He was chased by two members of the congregation, including an offduty Lynbrook police officer. The men were able to wrestle a rifle away from the suspect, who then •
•
•
Fr POEMS
Photo: CNS
ran into a nearby apartment building. Newsday quoted Lynbrook Mayor Eugene Scarapato as saying the suspect was Peter Th y, 34, who had been fired a few months earlier from a job as parish custodian over the theft of money from the collection box. Scarapato said llny hid a rifle in a long coat until he walked into the back of the church. Police did not immediately confirm the mayor's identification of the suspect. He was arrested after police in riot gear stormed the building and brought him out. The suspect apparently tried to stab one of the officers with a small knife, Newsday reported. The 400 students at the parish's primary school were kept in their classrooms all day.
LODWAR. Kenya (CNS) — Officials in the Kenyan Diocese of Lodwar have criticised the World Food Program for cutting back its food aid to an arid, drought-affected northwestern district. Although the drought in Turkana District occurred three years ago. the area has not fully recovered. officials said. Father Seamus O'Neill, chancellor of the Lodwar Diocese, said the region needed a longer transition period before the people could start to be self-sufficient. 'It's right in the middle of the dry season; it's the most stressful time for people; he said. Father O'Neill noted that the rains usually come around April or May and last until July. By late February, food rations in 'ffirkana were reduced to 75 percent of the size of a regular ration, which provides each person with 2,160 kilocalories a day. It will remain at that level until June, when the ration will be cut to 50 percent. The ration may be reduced again in August or September, said Laura Melo, World Food Program spokeswoman. Food aid consists primarily of maize, lentils and beans, and a nutritional mix for children. At the moment. 247,847 people receive food assistance. Food aid started pouring into litrkana after the district experienced a drought and famine in 1999.
Crowd attends Armadale's family retreat By Carolyn Richer The resounding success of last weekend's St Francis Xavier parish family retreat has led to a date being set already for next year's event. More than 130 parishioners from the Armadale church made the trip to Fairbridge Farm at Pinjarra where Father Tony Chiera - in charge of adult faith education for the Bunbury diocese facilitated the sessions. Fr Chiera spoke on the subject with conviction, helping the congregation understand the theme more fully He said even when things are really tough or when we have come From broken lives - we caption have to break down the attitudes we have toward God in order to understand His love. "God loves us passionately, tenderly and unconditionally with a love than can never be withheld or withdrawn. it is a love that persists whether we return it or not. "Whether we think we deserve it - or not." Fr Chiera said. He said later it had been a wonderful weekend. There had been a deep sense of joy among the people. Generosity and cooperation had been evident throughout the weekend and there had been a wonderful sense of shared faith. Mrs Helen Cheng said she had been floating since the occasion and that it had been fantastic. "The most inspirational thing for me was
talking about restoring the nature of God. it was the discovery that if something goes wrong in life, to try to look for the human factors. The transformation of the love of God restores what has been damaged so that we can see and appreci- Some of the many who came to the weekend organised by Armadale parish. ate the good life." Mrs Cheng said. She added: "We shouldn't judge God - some people can be very hostile when bad things happen. We have to put them back into perspective and be creative in love, to free us and help us to experience growth." Crowe Mary Mrs described Fr Chiera as so passionate about his commitment and love of God for himself and all of the congregation. Pastoral assistant of the Francis Xavier community, Sister Ann Cullinane, said it was the fourth retreat Armadale has held and that they were important because they built in the Catholic community a thirst to know more Father Chiera celebrates Mass outdoors amidst Pinjarra's natural setting. about God. Fr Chiera said the outdoor venue was There was so much negativity in the by Fr Chiera in a beautiful bush setting. world and when people were thirsting and Older children in the congregation drama- God's cathedral, and likened a red flowerthirsting for more knowledge of God they tised St John's Gospel of Jesus and the blind ing hibiscus bush next to the altar to the were more supporting, caring and loving man, and the younger children waved Burning Bush of the Moses legend. Pictures courtesy Armadale parish toward each other. Fr Chiera said the streamers to a closing hymn. retreats strengthened community ties. deepening Christian faith and creating traditions and memories that sustained families and parishhis beautifully illustrated book The catechism is 196pp and measures es. an introduction to the basics 210mm by I48mm. is was A highlight of the retreat BELIEVE I the Catholic Faith and is The first part of the book is based upon of an outdoors Mass celebrated
Believe"—A Little Catholic Catechism
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addressed above all to families, but could also serve as a basic text for laity, priests and religious involved in religious education. The publication of this book is a response to the 'growing demand' for a compact introduction to the full Catechism of the Catholic Church. The book has met with 'great interest' among the faithful and is aimed at young people and adults. Inspiring illustrations give this Over 1.3 copies catechism an added dimension million distributed to help convey the spirit of the world wide Gospel along with its message.
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Let God give you life again Peter Dwan continues with his meditations on the readings for Sunday's Mass. This week the Fifth Sunday of Lent
51 Layman's
Meditation
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oday's gospel is St John's account graves, my people, and lead you back to of the raising of Lazarus from the the soil of Israel." dead (John 11:1-45) and contains Fr Kevin 'O'Sullivan explains: "In the Christ's words: "I am the resurrection eleven verses preceding this pericope and the life." the prophet has described how God, The first reading (Ezekiel 37:12-14) is through him, spoke to the dry bones of Ezekiel's encouragement to the exiled the Israelites, and raised them up and Jews. gave them life once more. As is clear This is the fifth significant stage of sal- from verse 11, there is no question of vation history, to the despairing Jews a resurrection of the body there: the dry rebirth is announced - the return from bones are the exiled Israelites who say exile. 'our bones are dried up, and our hope In the Sunday Readings Cycle A, p135, is lost, we are clean cut off.' Now God Fr Kevin O'Sullivan OFM says: "Ezekiel tells these despairing Israelites that all was a priest of the temple of Jerusalem Is not lost. He will give them a real life, up to 597 BC, when he was deported to not that of slavery, once more." Babylon with the king Jeholachim and The Jews were still God's chosen peothe first deportees. ple, despite their neglect of him. And I Among the exiles in Babylon he shall put my spirit in you", which is a denounced the sins of the people which spirit of obedience once more. brought about the exile, and foretold Following Vatican II, we have been greater misfortunes still for Judah. through difficult times. But these bad Jerusalem and its temple would be times will surely end when Catholics destroyed by the Babylonians, and the show a spirit of obedience. remainder of the people taken into capThe three readings for today have a tivity. common theme - resurrection. They had deserted Yahweh: he would In Ezekiel the release of the Jews from now desert them for a while. the captivity and slavery of Babylon is But Ezekiel, like Jeremiah and second- described as a rising from their graves Isaiah, his contemporaries, had words to return to a new life in their own of encouragement also. homeland. Better days were to come, when YahThis is a metaphor, a type of the true weh would take back his people once resurrection which will come later. more and dwell in their midst forever. The gospel account of the raising of (37:25). Lazarus proves the power Our Lord had The verses taken from Ezekiel today of raising the dead. are part of this encouragement. In the second reading (Romans 8:8-11) The reading begins: "The Lord says there is a direct reference to the future this: I am now going to open your resurrection to a life of unending glory graves. I mean to raise you from your for all who during their lives were loyal
TO JESUS THROUGH MARY
to Christ. The resurrection in a new body, which will never again be subject to death or pain or suffering, has been won for us by Christ who, having died for our sins, rose from the dead on Easter Sunday. In the gospel, St John relates the last and greatest miracle Our Lord worked. It had two purposes: first to prove that Christ was the Messiah, and secondly to move the chief priests and Pharisees to carry out their plan to put Jesus to death. When Jesus heard of Lazarus's illness, he said: "This sickness will not end in death but in God's glory, and through it the Son of God will be glorified." Although its result was death, the illness and death were intended in order that Christ's messiahship might be convincingly proved by it. When Jesus reached Bethany, he found that Lazarus was (lead for four (lays. Martha said: "If you had been here, my brother would not have died." Both sisters believed Christ could have cured their brother had he been present: they did not think he could do so from a distance. Nor did they think he could now raise him front the (lead. Yet this is exactly what Our Lord did. Martha objected when Christ asked that the stone betaken away from the tomb, saying: "Lord, by now he will smell: this is the fourth day." Jesus replied: "Have Inot told you that if you believe you will see the glory of God." When they took away the stone. Jesus cried out: "Lazarus, come out!" St John said: "The dead man came out." This was a wonderful thing. But do we realise that something more wonderful happened to us when new life was given to us in baptism and restored to us through confession.
A COLUMN OF MARIAN DEVOTION stINIMMUNINEMINIMINIMMINININF
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aul himself insists on the Jewish'less of Jesus and on the merits of the Chosen People. "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, to redeem those who were under the Law, so that we could be adopted as sons of God" (Gal 4:4-5). And also "...from them [the Israelites] came the Messiah according to the flesh-may God who is over all be blessed forever" (Rm 9:4-5).
We can not gloss over the radical turnabout that the Second Vatican Council took in its way of looking at the Jewish world with an eye to recognising how the coming of the Messiah was prepared for in the Chosen People: hence the most appropriate and beautiful gesture paid to them by Pope John Paul lion the occasion of his visit to the synagogue of Rome was to call the Jews "our elder brothers." But the principal fact, about which I think the Son of God wanted to instruct us, is that holiness does not lie in great works, but in living uprightly day by day. [The years in Nazarteth] will have been serene years, but not idyllic. The village life of those days was hard and full of fatigue, sustained by constant prayer and reciprocal love. It certainly does not seem that Jesus' behaviour stood out in people's eyes for any reason, especially if his fellow citizens marvelled when he began his public life and they came to know of the miracles he was performing. Even this seems to be a sign that, in those years, he did nothing extraordinary. If occasionally he spoke up to explain Sacred Scripture in the synagogue, something easy to imagine in such a tiny village, he would have done It with a great deal of zeal, but without that authority that he would demonstrate in his public life. Could he have done any more or any better? Is it possible that the Son of God would waste his talents for such a long time in obscurity? Here, too, in this there is an important lesson: there is nothing more perfect than to do the will of God; and Jesus waited serenely for indications of that will from his heavenly Father. The Record, March14 2002 Page 6
reach such profound refinement and affinity. Mary will come to understand ever more the treasure she has in her husband, helpmate, and friend whom the Lord had assigned to her. For Jesus, then, who called Joseph Abba (daddy) first, he was truly the image of the heavenly Father. Joseph gave him all the best that a father can give his son: a human education, a respected name. knowledge of God. He taught him how to pray. to work, and gave him the constant example of an upright life. That is why I find reductive certain names commonly attributed to Joseph such as putative father, foster father and the like. Joseph is the Davidic father of Jesus: he gave him, above all, membership in the house of David in fulfilment of the prophets. We usually invoke St. Joseph as the patron of a happy death, because he certainly breathed his last in the solicitous The Vision of St Joseph; Philippe de Chaincare of Jesus and Mary; it's impossible to paigne, National Gallery, London. think of any better assistance. Did they pray to the Father to cure him? We can But there is one episode that certainly be certain that they did. must have taken place in these years But, as Jesus will do in the Garden of even if the Gospels don't speak of it Olives, they would have subordinated because of its private importance: the their request to the will of God. This just death of Joseph. man had finished his mission and was During the public life of Jesus, Joseph ready for Heaven. Jesus not only wept no longer appears and Mary must have over his friend Lazarus and over the city been living with her relatives, as was of Jerusalem. He surely wept over Joseph, customary for women who were alone. too. And Mary, besides her great sorrow, Moreover, when the Synoptics refer to began a new mission, common to so the wonder the Nazarenes manifested many women: that of being a model for all that Jesus had begun to do, Luke widow. expresses himself with the words: "Is this Reflections not the son of Joseph?" whereas, strangeAbout Mary - More than ever we see ly, Matthew and Mark say: "Is this not the how she was sanctified in her life as a son of Mary?" housewife, a very hard life in those times They seem to be indicating that by this for the poor. The common fatigue of each time his neighbours were used to seeing day makes us feel more than ever that Jesus only with his mother. she is our sister. Every day, filled with Between Mary and Joseph, with com- prayer and work, was a gift of God. mon purpose and common vicissitudes, there must have developed an ever growing love.Ibelieve that one could say that From The Gospel of never was a husband more loved than THF Mary - a month with the Joseph and never was a wife more loved COSPEL Mother of God by Fr than Mary. Gabriel Amorth SSP, St OF Perhaps only such a chaste love, comPaul Publications, RRP MARY bined with a sublime purpose. could $23.50
Naming a child
after a saint is not that "radical", Gigi!
With Paul Gray
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hy should a 21st century baby be named after a saint? In pagan times - by whichImean today, by the way, not 2000 years ago - won't a child with a name taken from a Christian saint feel strange and out of place? In a word, no. One of the advantages of living in pagan times is that there is no clear and agreed pattern for how you name your child. You can name him or her after a star in the sky, a star in an old movie or even after the plumber who fixed your drdins last week and no-one's going to ask any rude questions. You might even go for a totally made up word, just because you like the sound of it. No-one will be harsh and judgmental against you if you do. In this climate, naming a child after a hero or heroine of the Christian faith is not really a radical thing to do. And it has its advantages. I call these the supernatural advantage, and the natural advantage. The supernatural one is prayer. Christians believe in the power of prayer. including the prayers not only of people on earth but also of those in heaven. Saints are people who keep God's company and therefore their prayers must be worth something to us on earth. By naming a child after a particular saint, we can feel confident of that saint's patronage when it comes to prayer. Who knows how useful this might priivn in the course of a lifetime to a child? The natural advantage is that a saint provides a child with a helpful role model as he or she grows up. And helpful role models are not so thick on the ground these days that we can afford to pass them by. One of the contrasting features of Catholicism that I've come to notice as I've got to know some Protestant friends better is that while we sometimes study saints closely, they often apply similar energy to the study of bible heroes. Conscious as Protestants are of the great truth that God made his Revelation through some very weak and frail. but at times magnificent, individuals in Old Testament and New Testament history, they study this history as though it really matters. But they don't study saints, by and large. Catholics do, and this gives Catholic young people, in particular, one helpful starting point. They can learn about some very modern people who are real examples of sanctity, holiness and closeness to God. So modern, you can even see the photographs of them. The recent touring exhibition around Australia of the relics of St Therese of Lisieux brought this powerfully home. One of the great effects of the tour was that many people will have purchased, for the first time, the famous autobiography by Therese. Story of a Soul. As well as a superb spiritual book, Story of a Soul is illustrated with actual photographs of the young woman who has inspired so much devotion and conversion to God around the world in the century since her death. Photographs of Therese as a child, as a young girl growing up and as a Carmelite nun. It's nineteenth century photography - an era of superb artistic portraiture - and you can see the very spark of life in the eyes of St Therese. When we look at a photo of young Therese, we look at real life - which of course, is exactly what saints represent. The real-life struggles, and the real-life possibility of supreme spiritual achievement that is the birthright of every human being. Better than a rock, an abstraction or a passing whim, the saint is a person for our child. A person for today.
Emotional responses hide INT's real evil
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hen it comes to dealing with the moral distinctions that must be made in matters like abortion, in-vitro fertilisation, euthanasia and embryonic stem cell research, the media In general and television in particular tend to use their well-known influence over people's emotions to favour emotional responses to complex issues. It isn't difficult. Just spend a little time with a beautiful baby or an active, enthusiastic child and how could anyone argue against IVF? It is always made to look, sound and feel as though objecting to IVF is objecting to this "perfect" child and its happy parents who went through such a lot of suffering to create this wonderful new life. The fact that a great many other children's lives have been deliberately snuffed out in favour of this one life just doesn't get a look in and doesn't seem to matter. Of course, even television hasn't tried the same trick with rape: That is, present lots of images of a happy, intelligent child and a doting mother and then let the audience wonder how they could object to rape when it produced such a beautiful child! The emotions are somewhat different, but the principle is the same. Recently, an SBS program on births engineered to create materials to be used to cure an otherwise 'incurable' child trod the well-worn path of emotional justification until one poignant scene revealed the ghastly truth behind the process. The procedure now being used by IVF practitioners is this: Harvest as many eggs as possible from the mother, fertilise as many as possible with the father's sperm. and let them develop to the appropriate
The Record
perfect match for big brother's needs. The answer was, No. In the moments of silence that followed, any viewer with intellect or emotions intact was left facing the ghastly fact that PO Box 75, Leederville, WA 6902 nine children, all identifiable as boys or Tel: (08) 9227 7080, Fax: (08) 9227 7087 girls with individual characteristics, were cathrec@iinethet.au to be consigned to the dustbin (or possibly used for experiments by morally mad scientists) because they did not suit the (though still early) stage. Then test them of their parents at the time. requirements a who is a in search of healthy embryo These tiny but truly human lives - whom perfect match for the sick sibling. If one is their mother and father could speak of as found, implant it in the mother and hope girls and boys - were not to be given the she carries the baby to birth so that cells chance to develop naturally because their from the umbilical cord or the placenta lives were not considered as important as can be used to cure the older child. their brother's and were not valued by One of the stories presented in the SBS their parents. program concerned parents who had one That is why the Catholic Church teachchild with an incurable disease who was es, insistently and with all the force of active, energetic and very brave in the face truth and reason at her disposal, that IVF of his suffering. its offshoot embryonic cell research and the parents By public fund-raising, are inherently and inevitably wrong. The obtained more than $100,000 to fund trips problem is that they kill far more babies to America to go through the process of than they bring to birth; they take far more creating and testing embryos. than they save; and they encourage lives On the third occasion, because the funds families to arbitrarily assign value to one were running out, the mother travelled life but not another. alone to the US and it was this circumPeople used to scorn Hitler and his "mad stance which gave rise to the unexpected because of their experiments in scientists" scene which revealed the truth behind the we are already deeper in but eugenics, procedure. they were. Our State Govthan mire this The cameras focused on the mother that it wants to announced has ernment in back father the while she telephoned is that our hope only our and deeper, go Australia to tell him the outcome of the halt. a call will Government Federal into parents lures the that in image created the Lovable child testing of the nine embryos It is a subject deserving of prayer. creating new life in order to destroy it. IVF process. Three of them - two boys and a girl • The opinions expressed in this editorwere a perfect match for their big broth- mother and her responses, it seems certo going was she whether asked and any other Record editorial, are not he ial, tain er, but all three had the same fatal disease. It was not possible to hear the father's accept into her womb any one of the necessarily those of the Roman Catholic of Perth. voice, but from the body language of the healthy embryos even though it was not a Archbishop
APOuno lAe T
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&Hers fo /Asc. Cofifor
demonstrate to save human babies as we of the experiences I lived through on a our country, yet our Governments seem to are to save the forests, whales or short- dark, miserable road I travelled from the be encouraging the trend towards a topheavy population by legislating to facilitate mid 70's to the early 80's. necked tortoises? Christ in life new a to the abortion industry. me led journey This Recently, lay Catholics have not been as The position taken by your corresponpublicly active on these ethical questions by my becoming both Christian and dent in the current media fed controversy as some other Christian groups. We have Catholic Before that emergence into the light I over the Governor-General is a sign of hope in large numbers, the leads s Christians we have retreated far not supported. or Pope Involved myself in many dangerous prac- and good sense in the present hysteria. Hickey. Barry Archbishop our from enough in the face of the hostile Paul, who have made many strong tices that included outright occultic Father Geoff Beyer theistic humanistic attacks of the John on abortion, euthanasia, statements Attadale years. 40 past I have seen firsthand the power of Satan, cloning, Gay laws, pornography and now Starting with the Pill, which changed sex is it although it is real, it is tangible and, embryonic experiments. from its association with marriage to an to stand for our moral powerless against the might of the Holy ashamed we Are was interested to read the article exercise of lust and pleasure, we have truths? Let us start reclaiming Australia. 'ninny or even Our Lady, over some weak -Refugee treatment lamentable" (The retreated step by step from IVF: abortions, Our 30 per cent plus numbers will influ- humans ills formidable. Record 7th March 2002) which outcloning. Gay laws, pornography to a final ence any political debate, but consistently I was scared witless at times through my the treatment of refugees and asylum lined challenge - the experimenting with the we lose to a vocal 1 - 5 per cent minority, experiences and I have seen the look of in France. seekers unwantthe humans, of most defenceless who are willing to play politics. Let us sup- real horror in others who dabbled. of the findings in the joint features Many ed excess embryos from IVF programs. its without not was conversion My port those politicians of all parties fighting bishops are repeated in three of statement conrightly The Nazis and Hitler were our cause, stop taking our place with the demonic interference and I was permitted demned for doing medical experiments on "Silent Majority" and let us become an to suffer several attacks as I moved from Australia. Archbishop Pell, on behalf of the Australian Bishops, recently made a statevictims from their death camps. The pro- active "Noisy Majority". Otherwise we are darkness to light. on this subject, which received scant ment to Government State our the of with and actions witness posed Through prayer and responsible as Australia steps further into allow the experimenting with and then its Post Christian Culture. assistance of the then Perth Archdiocese 's media exposure. I am sure your readers would welcome killing of these unborn babies is worse. exorcist priest Itried to assist a friend who The potential of these embryos is well Dr Pat Cranley was obsessed by the spirit of evil and was publication of the full text of that statement. known and proved, as shown by the con- Leederville in serious trouble. I have seen what the H H Child current drive to genetically assess an spirit of evil can do to a person's body and Bayswater embryo before rvF, in an effort to produce mind a whole lot clearer that any movie a perfect baby, much as Hitler tried to proam stunned by Raymond de Souza's could portray. Because of that I believe that critics of duce a Master Race. After these unborn insistence that everything about Harry s suggested in The Record(14/2 and babies have served their purpose, they are Potter is evil, wicked, mean and nasty. Harry Potter are off the mark 21/2), we should be praying for our calmthat to be destroyed like any other experimenletters excellent many Despite John Gilmour persecuted brethren at every celetal laboratory animal, for example rats. ly and clearly show he is off target he per- Mt Claremont brated mass. However, we should also be These laws mean big dollars to IVF sup- sists. Editor's note: Pool? The Recordhereby perpliers. The current situation is that the State Fr Tim Deeter's superb letters, I thought, forms its own magic trick this week and encouraged to offer up our daily pains and frustrations. has authorised the killing of these inno- would have brought this issue to an end. makes Harry Potter disappear from the letWith the pressures and 'busyness' of cents after a certain time. The IVF pro- However after reading Mr de Souza's ters page before your very eyes. Thank you everyday modern life, many people seem grams have the moral and ethical problem replies it appears to me that he is going to all. to find it hard to set time aside for prayer, of what to do with their unused embryos, have the last word simply because he has but of the billion or so Catholics in the as well as the expense of storing them - to. world, not one could possibly claim to be now a market many offer. Perhaps the Latin phrase he quoted in We are told that embryonic stem cells last week's Letter to the Editor should be wish to commend Patricia Halligan free from every form of suffering. may aid those with spinal injuries, strokes, more appropriately worded Contra facta If we could only become aware of the (The Record March 7th) for her perParkinson's disease or as spare parts for non valent de Souza. It is useless to argue ceptive and clear-sighted letter on the number of times things seem to go wrong other areas. The death of the donor embryo against Mr de Souza. His latest attempt to hypocrisy of those who purport to express every day, and instead of complaining or is ignored. link Harry Potter with satanic activities is, quite understandable revulsion at the sex- hitting back we made a point of offering up ual abuse of children, while remaining the occasion the way St Therese did, we Current research in many centres sug- I believe, quite flimsy and full of holes. Of course these blind souls in South Aus- silent over the ultimate abuse which is would soon be building up a huge power gests that adult stem cells from the patients themselves have many advantages over tralia are going to cash in on Harry Potter's abortion. To remain silent over the latter, or house of good. to take the so-called pro-choice position, embryonic stem cells. The body will not popularity. Like little children, we could give ourThey would use any vehicle to promote may be politically correct, but it has no selves a 'star' every time we succeeded, reject its own cells for example, so avoidplace in a moral society which claims to and soon our little stars would illumine the ing costly suppressive medications, and their own dark cause. in use the that value human life. It make even less sense whole universe and blot out the Darkness. Teletubbies or ethical "magic" moral no If the there are of course their rabbit and flower world could possi- in our Western society, in which an ageing Like St Paul who boasted of his stripes, we problems involved. We do not need to kill living embryos to bly be used to further promote occultic arts population is predicted to create formida- would glory in our troubles, and discover give our ageing population a few more by those who practise or teach them, then ble economic pressures in the next twenty for ourselves the real Glory of the Cross. years of enjoyable life. Let us put our sure as the day is long they would milk it. years. Fewer and fewer babies being born, Not because I have read the four books, with thousands each year being aborted, is G. Aquilina money, time and effort into further adult not because I have seen the film twice, do creating a situation which will have dire Lynwood stem cell research. Letters continued - Page 15 Ask ourselves if we are as willing to Ibelieve Mr de Souza is wrong but because consequences for the future well-being of The Record, March 14 2002 Page 7
Take the stand against RN
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Refugee lament
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Pottering on again ...
Offer up your pain
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The real enemy
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Features
The tabernacle, mounted on top of the pillar, serves a dual function. It is a place of reservation of the hosts after Mass, as well as a place of exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at times of adoration.
The tabernacle symbolising the pillar of fire - a sign of God's presence - at Our Lady of the Mission Church in Whitford. The inspiration for the design came to Chris Fryters during Sunday Mass.
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The pillar is made of Tasmanian Oak with strips of flame coloured glass.
The Record, March 14 2002 Page 8
he creation of a new tabernacle for Our Lady of the Mission Church at Whitford seemed at first a daunting task . . . but an exciting challenge. Father Geoff Aldous' brief for a structure symbolising the pillar of fire - the sign of God's presence leading the Israelites through the desert, and for the congregation, the presence of Christ in the Eucharist. After discussions with parish representatives and the scrapping of several initial designs, the inspiration for the final design came to Chris Fryters while attending Sunday Mass, and kept coming to him for several more Masses, until the design was committed to paper. But those taking part discovered they had underestimated the number of difficulties and setbacks.
The basic shape of the whole structure is seven sided, representing the period of creation, as well as some of the design elements that can be found in the architecture of the church. The pillar is made of Tasmanian Oak with strips of flame coloured glass, lit from inside, giving the fire effect. The tabernacle , mounted on top of the pillar, serves a dual function. It is a place of reservation of the hosts after Mass, as well as a place of exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at times of adoration. The side of reservation facing the altar, has two doors showing four panels with Eucharistic symbols (Lamb, Peace, Wheat. Fish) which are made of a resin mix and given a pewter look. The side of the exposition has two decorated doors facing the chapel, and open to expose a decorated panel
that holds the Blessed Sacrament. The doors and the inside panel are made of pewter and are decorated with rays - colour enamels and stones creating an image of an aura - radiating out from the Blessed Sacrament in the middle. Those working on the project came in for an unbelievable number of setbacks and difficulties most of them unexplainable and very frustrating. It was as if something was trying it's utmost to stop the tabernacle from being completed. The closer to completion the more frequent the setbacks, up to and during the final assembly in the church on Christmas eve. Volunteers who worked on the project want to thank all those who contributed with advice and moral support, and especially the parishioner who donated the costs of the materials.
Features
Celebrations for the centenary of Coolgardie were held on the weekend of February 16-17. Above, St Mary's Church built in 1902. Top left, parishioners and visitors celebrate Mass as part of 'he celebrations. Bottom left, Bishop Healey was the main celebrant at the weekend.
Coolgardie Church centenary T
he centenary of St Mary's Coolgardie church building was celebrated over the weekend of February 16-17 2002. Coolgardie was born with the discovery of gold in 1892. The first church was built in 1894 but until then a local hotel & shop were regular venues for Mass. In 1895 a public meeting was called by Bishop Matthew Gibney to discuss the growing needs of Catholics in a fast growing community. Issues such as the typhoid epidemic and education led to the St John of God Sisters establishing their first Australian hospital and school in 1896. In 1898 they relocated the hospital to Kalgoorlie. The Church in Coolgardie has had its good and bad times. In 1914 World War I caused a dramatic decline in the Goldfields population but the Sisters of Mercy continued their good work The depression years leading up to World War II saw the discovery of new gold mines that helped revive Coolgardie. WWII affected the town but it was boosted after 1945 and the town thrived once again. In 1956 the Coolgardie parish was closed The Sisters of Mercy opened their first school in Coolgardie in 1898, but at the end of 1979 they had to close their convent & college and left Coolgardie along with the St John of God Sisters from Kalgoorlie. The Church enjoyed a shortlived revival in 1980-1990's when the Goldfields was experiencing a gold boom and now, in 2002, the church has a small band of ver loyal and faithful parishioners who pray the rosary daily and
keep the beautiful church in good to Coolgardie which started with a prayer service at St Mary's repair. During the festivities over the Church and then processed to the weekend, Parish Priest Fr Tony Coolgardie Shire park where the Vallis, acknowledged the vital Blessed Eucharist was celebrated spiritual and community role St in front of some 350 people. During his homily Bishop Healy Mary's Church, in Coolgardie, has played during its 100 year history. paid tribute to those who pioOther activities held over the neered the Church in the Goldweekend included an invitation fields and to those who continue dinner on the Saturday night with to remain faithful and celebrate special guests from the Goldfields their faith in Coolgardie. Goldfields parishioner and local community and Bishops Robert Healy and Peter Quinn in atten- historian Harry Argus spent many hours researching and collating a dance. Bishop Healy. Mick Cotter, booklet on the history of St Mary's Richard Scallan & tourism repre- Coolgardie which is available for sentative, Julian Grill, entertained $5. For those who have an interthe people with stories of yester- est in Church history this booklet year and spoke of the significance is well worth the read. The Coolgardie centenary is the of Coolgardie to the prosperity of first of two celebrations for the the state. The Sisters of Mercy were well Goldfields Catholic community in represented over the weekend 2002. In November St Mary's Kalreliving memories and meeting goorlie Church will also be celesince years 100 brating up with old friends. On Sunday morning the 10am construction of that magnificent Kalgoorlie Mass was transferred church.
Attending priests join in the celebrations which saw hundreds of visitors and parishioners spend a weekend honouring Coolgardie's Centenary.
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uests for the centenary of the Church had the opportunity to study a well-compiled history of the church and parish researched and written by Harry Joseph Argus. The book informs us that gold was discovered in Coolgardie in September 1892, Mass was being said (at different times in a hotel and a store) in 1893 and the first Catholic Church was open by mid-year 1894 ... a clear sign of the vigour of the Church in those days. With Coolgardie still growing. the foundation stone for St Mary's was laid by Bishop Matthew Gibney on February 9, 1902 and the official opening was performed by His Lordship on June 15,1902.
Quoting newspapers of the time, author Harry Argus tells us the nave was 68ft by 28ft (roughly 22 metres by 9m), the sanctuary 24ft by 20f1, and the transepts on either side 20ft by 9ft. The walls were 20ft to the eaves and the top of the roof was 40ft from the ground. The capacity was said to be 500 people and there were close to 1000 people present for the opening. The original contract price was 3000 pounds ($6000), but it had blown out by 500 pounds by the time of the opening ... something that has become a grand Australian tradition! Coolgardie had two Catholic schools, St Mary's and the rather majestic St Anthony's Covent and College, the photograph of which in the book is a reminder of the unbounded optimism of those marvellous people who opened up the Goldfields and other parts of the State. The book lists all the Sisters of Mercy (16) buried in the Coolgardie cemetery and pays tribute to their remarkable contribution to education in the Goldfields, and also lists all priests who have served Coolgardie either when it was its own parish or served from Kalgoorlie.Copies are available from the Kalgoorlie Parish. phone 9021 7248
The Record, March 14 2002 Page 9
Book Review
dee per into Har ry's ords Book delves • W ISDO° 1 world to find nd iits positive roots A Charmed Life A Charmed Life: The Spirituality of Potterworld, by Francis Bridger Reviewed by Janet Kovesi Watt
with Tony Evans
T
AA
he society or culture which has lost its spiritual roots is a dying culture, however prosperous it may appear externally" - ominous words for Australia written over 70 years ago by the distinguished Catholic convert, Christopher Dawson. Dawson was an historian of immense erudition whose academic advancement was at first impeded by his conversion to Rome. Later his great scholarship, his authoritative books, and his fluency, were so greatly respected that in 1958 he was appointed the first professor of Roman Catholic studies at Harvard University. Dawson's contribution to our understanding of Catholic culture and thought throughout Western civilisation is unequalled. In an essay entitled "Christianity and Contradiction" published in The Dynamics of World History (1953) he writes of the trials and opposition the Church has had to face through the ages - and that we must still face today: "When Our Lord spoke of the future he gave his disciples no optimistic hopes. no vision of social progress; he described all the things that we are afraid of today and more - wars, persecutions, disasters and the distress of nations. But strange to say he used this forecast of calamity as a motive for hope. When you see these things" He said. "look up and lift your heads, for your redemption is at hand." "That may seem a strange philosophy of history but it is the authentic philosophy of Christ. and if the prospect of these things causes us to hang down our heads instead of lifting them up, it shows there is something wrong with our point of view. Iknow we are apt to feel that this does not apply to us - that it merely refers to the end of the world. But to the Christian, the world is always ending, and every historical crisis is, as it were, a rehearsal for the real thing."
T
hose who are alarmed by the Harry Potter phenomenon will be startled by the subtitle of this book. They will be just as surprised by some of the subtitles of individual chapters: "The Moral Universe of Potterworld", and even "The Theology of Potterworld." The author is the principal of an Anglican theological college, and says: "I write as a theologian. a Christian, and pastor and a grandparent, and find myself engaging with Potterworld on four separate levels. He sympathises with, but does not share, the fears of those who are convinced the books are dangerous, saying that most of the reaction against them "has failed to examine closely enough both the evidence from the books themselves and the consistency and logic of the arguments against them. The trouble is, of course, that Hogwarts is a school of "witchcraft and wizardry," which Christians are solemnly admonished to shun. In real life, one would have to court demons in order to perform magic, and Bridger reminds us that Jesus Himself was accused of working His miracles "by the power of Beelzebub, the prince of devils." but as he Points out. "Potterworld magic does not flow from a supernatural or demonic realm in opposition to God: it is simply there. The magic actually performed in the books (except that by the evil Lord Voldemort and those in thrall to him) is mostly far from sinister. Harry often turns his wand into a torch with the command "lumos," and Hermione specialises in conjuring up portable fires. A more serious piece of magic she performs deeply apologetically is the "body-bind" on Neville, who tries to stop the three friends from going out after hours in their desperate bid to reach the Philosopher's Stone before Voldemort. Their decision to do this is discussed at length by Bridger. Professor the Dumbledore.
THE SPIRITUALITY OF POTTERWORLD
F RANCIS BRIDGER headmaster, is absent and Pro- of adult moral reasoning over fessor McGonagall, his deputy. infant moral reflex - perhaps dismisses the claim that Volde- putting it strongly - but J K Rowlmort's agent, and they them- ing plainly assumes her readers. selves know how to circumvent including child readers, are the enchantment guarding the capable of mature appreciation stone. of the issues involved. Harry declares: "I am going out Faced with the enchanted mirof here tonight andIam going to ror that will show what both he try to get the Stone first." and Voldemort desire to see, Hermione protests: "You'll be names the whereabouts of the expelled!" Harry retorts that if Philosopher's Stone, he thinks Voldemort returns, there will not desperately: "I must look and lie be any Hogwarts to be expelled about what I see, that's all." from. As Bridger puts it, they Many readers have been dishave to choose between "obey- turbed by this apparent endorseing rules" and "washing their ment of lying, but the situation is hands of the problem," or not straightforward. Bridger "accepting the moral responsi- compares it with an episode bility (and risk) that goes with from a book by a Dutch woman their knowledge." living in Nazi-occupied Holland He describes this as a triumph during World War II, whose fam-
ily helped Jews escape. On one occasion her brothers rushed home, pursued by police, and hid under the kitchen table, concealed only by the table clothe. The family when questioned said some men had run out of the back door. However, the author's truthful little niece said innocently that they were under the table. Fortunately the police left without investigating. In this true story, as in Harry's fictitious situation, information was demanded by those who had no right to it, since they intended to put it to evil use. Deception in such circumstances Is the verbal equivalent to a shield to ward off harm. These are genuine moral problems, which merit serious consideration. This kind of considered rule breaking is in sharp contrast to Irresponsible pranks of which Ron himself ruefully remarks on one occasion: "we shouldn't have done it." When Harry disregards rules designed for his own protection and sneaks off to the shops of the magical village of Hogsmeade, Professor Lupin sternly rebukes him. : 'Your parents gave their lives to keep you alive, Harry. A poor way to repay them - gambling their sacrifice for a bag of magic tricks." The theme of self-sacrificial love runs constantly through the Potter books. Harry's mother in dying to save him, unwittingly bequeathed him a powerful protection against evil. As Voldemort reflects: "His mother left upon him the traces of her sacrifice - this is old magic -Ishould have remembered it." Bridger the theologian cannot resist quoting (from the New RSV) Jesus' saying: "No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends." Sirius Black (at the end of Azkaban) says the same thing more forcefully to his former school friend, Pettigrew: 'You should have died! Died rather than betray your friends, as we would have done for you." Self-sacrifice, courage and friendship: these are the values celebrated in the Harry Potter books. I wish the subtitle of Bridger's book had been not "The Spirituality of Potterworld" but "The Moral Values of Potterworld."
Parental common sense is the best tool to judge Harry: Chaput
do the parents know that about their child? They do what parents friend, his wife and are supposed to do: They keep youngest child recently watch.) My initial reaction to the first saw "Harry Potter and the Harry Potter book was much the Sorcerer's Stone." Both adults are well informed same. I read it on a plane after and serious about their faith, so I another couple of friends had complained about it.Ienjoyed it. was interested in their reactions. I've already received dozens of It struck me as a better-than-averletters and e-mails from parents age children's fantasy - but, of wondering if this movie is suitable course, I don't have children. If I for their children. did have children in today's culThe friend and his wife - who ture,I might very well have found have not read the Potter books - it more troubling. came back baffled at criticism the Ithink people's uneasiness about film has received from some Chris- Harry Potter comes from the same tian quarters. roots as our uneasiness about HalThey found it to be a terrific fan- loween. When the spirit of Amertasy yarn that kept them thor- ican culture was overwhelmingly oughly entertained for two hours. Christian, Halloween played its They then went home, had dinner role in the drama of salvation - a and got back to the routine con- night of tricks, treats and symbolcerns of their lives. ic confusion overcome by the None of them, including their dawn of All Saints Day. child, began tinkering with magic. Forty years ago, Halloween could None of them, including their be enjoyed as harmless fun. Many child, developed an unhealthy good parents still see it that way attachment to Ouija boards. (How with no ill effects. But times have By Archbishop Charles Chaput
A
The Record, March 14 2002 Page 10
CNS/Reuters
Archbishop Charles Chaput
changed. The background noise of our daily lives has a different tone. Today's moral environment is much more consciously non Christian. The popularity of a television series like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" may be ridiculous, but it's not insignificant. As G.K. Chesterton once said, when we stop believing in God, we don't believe in "nothing" - we believe in anything. Human culture is never value-neutral. Our music, art, books, politics,
economy, architecture and films looking for Christian allegory, all express who we are. They're a Harry Potter isn't it. Magic and sorwindow on our souls. If demons cery can be harmless if we underand monsters populate our video stand them simply as story-telling games, they didn't get there by superstition. accident. If we start believing in them, if We let them in, and we let them we develop an abnormal interest stay. Therefore, it's more important In them, we quickly get into trouthan ever for parents to scrutinise ble. The Church rejects witchcraft what their children read, watch, for a very good reason: The devil listen to and play. The trick as a Is not a myth. Parents who foster parent,Isuspect, is to find the right recipe of vigilance mixed with an active Christian home for their children probably have little to humour and common sense. So what's the verdict on Harry worry about from a film like Potter? That's a matter for parents, "Harry Potter." Parents who don't have a lot not bishops, to decide. more to worry about than just this Ithink "Harry Potter" can be happily enjoyed as a children's fanta- film. The Church teaches that parsy movie. Nothing in the film ents are the primary educators of attacks the Christian faith, and their children for a good reason. They know - or should know good does win out over evil At the same time, unfortunately, charac- their kids better than anyone. With ters in the Potter books do some- Harry Potter, as with so much else, times accomplish good things by parents are the first and best judge. doing bad things, like lying. Reprinted with permission from In other words, J.K. Rowling is a Our Sunday Visitor and Archbishvery different author from C.S. op Chaput who heads the US Lewis or J.RR. Tolkien. If you're Archdiocese of Denver.
Focus
Bishop takes steps in healing After their former parish priest had been charged in a Bunbury court with sexual offences, Bishop Gerard Holohan went to the parishes of Leschenault and Brunswick to talk to and with the people there. His visit was on the Third Sunday of Lent when the Gospel told the story of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well. Bishop Holohan addressed the c ongregations in this way: When a Pastor has been charged... One of the striking aspects of the Gospel that we have just heard is that Jesus knew and understood the woman he met at the well. In her words (John 4:40). "He told me all I have ever done." Just as Jesus could see into her heart, so he can see into each of your hearts and mine. Jesus could see that. in her heart, she lacked peace. The cause - she was living with a man, but not married to him (John 4:18). In the words of Jesus: "The one you have now is not your husband." Our Hearts are troubled We too may lack inner peace for many reasons. One cause may be the events surrounding Fr. Adrian over the past week.
"We gather to celebrate the Eucharist around the Lord who is one with us at this time."
there have been a few priests. The current situation is coloured because the charges against Fr Adrian stir in people's memories the crimes of other people and priests. One essential feature of the Church One question people may ask is: 'How can this happen in the Church?' To answer this question, we need to remind people of the words of Jesus (Mark 2:17). came to mil not the upright but sinners. It is not the healthy who need the doctor, but the sick? We who have gathered here for this Eucharist are a sign of the Church as envisaged by Jesus. Like patients gathered in a doctor's surgery, we are recognising that we cannot live the Christian life as Jesus taught it unless we receive strengthening and healing from our failings and weaknesses. In today's Gospel, we hear of a woman so rejected by others because of her sins that she could go to the well only in the heat of the day when no-one else was likely to be there. Jesus was interested in her because she was a public sinner.
"In the Dark Ages, for example, the Church - leaders and people - was so corrupt that people thought the world would end. They reasoned: 'Jesus promised to be with the Church until the end of time. But the Church is so corrupt now that Jesus must be with it no longer. Therefore, this must be the end of time'."
As I mentioned at the beginning John brings this out in four of the Mass, there are the two details. Gospel charges and the media images. I First. Jesus asks for a drink do not understand fully what the charges mean, thoughIhave been because he is thirsty. Second, the woman goes to the told that they are at the lesser end well for the water that she thinks of charges of this nature. Many have told me that they will satisfy her thirst. Third, after her encounter with were troubled at seeing Fr Adrian Jesus, she puts down her water in the media images, apparently back to the town. He jar to hurry on his own. However,I can assure satisfied a deeper thirst than that you that he was not alone. Those who were with him were taken for water Fourth. Jesus' thirst too was sataback by the attack, as were the police, and it took a few moments isfied even though he had no drink. His deeper thirst was to recfor the police to respond. We learn from the Scriptures oncile sinners to God. The Church, therefore, is a mix that, as members of the Church, we are members of Christ's Body. of human beings who sin, but This means that, in us his mem- thirst for God, and the divine. At times in her history the sinfulness bers, he too suffers today. of her members has appeared to We gather to celebrate the over-come the divine. Eucharist around the Lord who is In the Dark Ages, for example, one with us at this time. the Church - leaders and people The questions people ask A number of people have wor- was so corrupt that people ried about what to say in response thought the world would end. to the questions of others that They reasoned: 'Jesus promised have been stirred by the events of to be with the Church until the this past week. We have to recog- end of time. But the Church is so nise that these arise in a context. corrupt now that Jesus must be Leaving aside completely Fr with it no longer. Therefore, this Adrian. whose innocence or guilt must be the end of time.' Yet, just when the Church has to be decided by a court, it seemed finished, the divine has to be acknowledged that, itself. Within three reasserted among the many convicted of sexual crimes against children, sadly centuries, there came great renewal and the age of many of
our greatest saints. We think of St Francis of Assisi, who founded the Franciscan Order, St Dominic. who founded the Dominicans, St Clare, who founded the Poor Glares, and many others. Another example when the sinfulness of members seemed to be overwhelming the Church was the period just prior to Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation. The divine in the Church reasserted itself through the Counter Reformation. Anyone who does not understand the divine-human mix of the Church will never understand we "To the how the Church has times of failexperience ure that are followed by periods of renewal. the One reason for the ministerial priesthood Another question people may ask is: 'Why does the Church have priests?' The answer is found In the Gospels, where Jesus cared personally for his followers. We read, for example, about his efforts to take his disciples aside after they Bunbury Bishop Gerard Holohan addressed the parishes of Leschenautt and returned from teaching his mes- Brunswick about the allegations of sexual abuse against their former priest. sage to others (eg. Mark 8:30). Jesus knew that he would share the same weaknesses of reduce their esteem for the thoualways need to care personally other human beings. They share sands of priests who have dedifor his followers. Alone, they the same questions, times of con- cated their lives to the good of would lack the spiritual guidance fusion, fears, confusion and temp- others because some priests in and strength to live as he taught. tations. Like every other church the past have been convicted of He therefore called some member, they need Christ's guid- offences against children. And it through whom HE would care for ance, strength and forgiveness for would be a tragedy if the work of the hundreds of priests who have his followers. He gave them spir- sins. Is it celibacy? worked so hard in the Diocese of itual powers through which he Some people suggest that some Bunbury was overlooked because would work. Through them, for priests may have committed of the charges against Fr. Adrian example, he would: • change bread and wine into crimes against children because charges that have yet to be tested in court. his Body and Blood, and nourish of celibacy. May this parish grow Leaving aside the fact that the his followers spiritually. A parish is first and foremost a greatest percentage of those • forgive sins. We believe in the priesthood, involved In such crimes are not community. God dwells within therefore, not because of those celibate, this suggestion reflects a each of its members through Bapwho serve as priests but because misunderstanding about celibacy. tism. Its members are followers of There are many forms of human Christ. He is its foundation. of the promises of Jesus, which A parish celebrates the love - married love, parental love. we believe. Priests share in human family love, friendship and so on. Eucharist because Jesus calls it to. Celibacy is another form of love. It engages in many works and weakness Celibate love is the love Christ activities that continue the misSome may then ask: 'How can showed. Its focus is upon God, sion of Jesus in the wider compriests sin if Christ worked and reaches out to all people. It is munity. through them?' On December 23 last. I was Here we need to recall again a love that cannot be satisfied fully struck by the numbers of parishwhat the scriptures teach about by a wife and family. Like all other forms of love, celi- ioners who were involved in so priesthood (Hebrews 2:18: 4:15; bate love has to be worked at. many parish works. 4:2). Unless this happens, celibate love My prayer is that this parish "For the suffering he himself weakens community will go from strength like other forms of love, passed through while being put to the test enables him to help and the commitment can be bro- to strength, and that it will not allow itself to be divided by the others when they are being put to ken. Like married love and friend- events of the past week. the test. requires comLet us all remember that God's In our high priest we have some- ship, celibate love particularly in times of power is infinitely greater than mitment. one who is not incapable of feeltemptation. Just as communica- any evil. God is seeking right now ing our own weaknesses with us, tion is essential for married love, to bring good out of the events of but has been put to the test in so communication with God in the past week. exact y the same way as ourselves. prayer is essential for celibate Our task is to pray and worship He can sympathise with those love. fervently so that we can play our who are ignorant or who have And, just as a married love can- parts in this faithful community. gone astray, because he too is sub- not be understood by focusing This is how the good God is seekject to the limitations of weak- upon the fact that married cou- ing to bring about becomes a realness." ples give up the chance to marry ity. Let us all pause in the presence others, so celibate love cannot be "And, just as a mar- understood by focusing on the of the Lord who is reading the ried love cannot be fact that celibate priests do not hearts of each of us. Let us pray for understood by focus- marry. • The healing of anything trouPriest's questions ing upon the fact that The current situation stirs ques- bling us. • the faith to continue to pray, married couples give tions also in priests: 'Will people continue to trust worship and live as Jesus taught, up the chance to • and the faith to continue playus?' How do people see us?' marry others, so celi- I have no doubt that fair-mind- ing our parts in the Christian mispeople do not pass negative sion to the world. bate love cannot be ed To the extent that we experience judgements upon any group understood by focus- because of the few who fail from these things, like the woman at time to time to live the group's the well, we will be moved to tell ing on the fact that ideals. others about our of celibate priests do not This is true whether they be the Christ who experiences can read our teachers, police, lawyers or sports hearts and satisfy our deepest marry." coaches. thirst, which is the thirst for God. Priests are human beings who Fair-minded people will never
extent that these things, like the woman at well we will be loved to tell others about our experiences of the Chist who cati, read our hearts armisatisfy our deepest thirst, which is filo thirst for God N.
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nternational News
East Middle in life" "No Sex scandal In Brief
By Judith Sudilovsky
widens
ST. LOUIS (CNS) - The widening scandal over sexual abuse of minors by priests took a new turn when, at a press conference March 8, Bishop Anthony J. O'Connell of Palm Beach, Fla., resigned over sexual misconduct with a teen-age seminarian in Missouri more than 25 years ago. . In other developments at least four priests were removed from ministry because of past allegations of sexual abuse and a fifth was placed on leave after police raided his rectory and confiscated his computer in a child pornography investigation. In Pittsburgh, Bishop Donald W. Wired instituted a stricter policy against allowing priests to return to ministry if they have credible allegations of sexual misconduct against them. In Maine, a pastor who recently admitted to parishioners that he had sexually abused a teenager more than 20 years ago was confronted with allegations that he made improper sexual advances toward a young man who wanted to become a priest.
Guidelines on gays VATICAN CITY (CNS) - A Vatican official's comments on the priesthood and homosexuality have drawn public attention to an issue that has been quietly debated at the Vatican for several years. Vatican sources said that, in general, church leaders are pressing harder so that people of permanent homosexual orientation are screened out as candidates for the priesthood. So far, this has been handled through prudent local decisions rather than explicit orders issued from the Vatican, they said. But it is something Vatican officials have emphasised to bishops in recent discussions on priestly vocations and seminary programs, the sources said. A new document on the issue also is being considered. A study on the question of homosexual candidates to the priesthood was completed last year at the Vatican's Congregation for Catholic Education, and sources said a set of guidelines for seminaries may follow.
Greek cooperation VATICAN CITY (CNS) -Archbishop Christodoulos of Athens, head of the Orthodox Church of Greece, will send a high-level delegation to the Vatican to discuss CatholicOrthodox relations and ecumenical cooperation in protecting the Judeo-Christian culture of Europe. The Vatican announced March 7 that the delegation, led by Metropolitan Panteleimon of Attika, would meet Pope John Paul II March 11. The six-member delegation is scheduled to meet with the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, the Vatican Secretariat of State, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and others. The Vatican said the encounters would mark a continuing discussion of themes discussed by the Pope and Archbishop Christodoulos.
JERUSALEM (CNS) - Residents of the West Bank towns of Beit JaIla and Beit Sahour remained Indoors as Israeli tanks once again rolled through their streets. For the third straight day, Israeli helicopters and jet fighters fired missiles at Palestinian police headquarters in Bethlehem, while tanks entered Beit Sahour and Beit JaIla early March 8, said Father Majdi al-Siryani, Beit Sahour parish priest. Israeli troops also surrounded the refugee camps of Dehiyshe, which Pope John Paul II visited in 2000, and Aida. The Israelis said they entered Palestinian territories to capture terrorists who planned to stage attacks on Israeli civilian populations. But Father al-Siryani called the shootings "random." In Belt Jana, Father Maroun Laham, director of the Latin Patriarchate seminary, said that although a curfew had not been Imposed, there was nobody in the streets. The majority of the seminary's students were away for the weekend, Father Laham said, but
boarding students who remained were kept indoors and given treats and shown videos as a distraction. "We have gotten used to this, but it is morally depressing. We see, every day, 20 to 25 people dying on both sides. It becomes a vicious cycle," he said. Father al-Siryani said the Israeli actions have served only to bolster Palestinian resolve, and most members of his parish do not condemn Palestinian attacks on soldiers at checkpoints. "They are not for killing innocent people but if (the gunmen) want to kill soldiers, people here feel they should go ahead and kill soldiers," he said. "As a church we believe in selfdefence, and this is a war waged against us. This is soldiers killing soldiers in certain circumstances. The soldiers at the checkpoints make our life (impossible). This is war," he said. Father al-Siryani, who also serves as legal adviser to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, said he had been denied passage through a checkpoint to Jerusalem for eight consecutive days. "What kind of life is this?Idon't
A Palestinian woman gestures as Israeli soldiers search her West Bank home in the Tulkarem refugee camp March 7. h...,(0 4.. •
believe this time that the hatred is going to disappear. Now people realise they and we are enemies. There has been a lot of bloodshed. When there has been bloodshed, things are totally different. This is the image of Israelis (Israeli Prime Minister Ariel) Sharon has given us," he said. He said he continues to be Invited to interfaith dialogue meetings
by Israelis whom he considers to be close friends, but he has no desire to participate at the moment."I think it is hypocritical to sit there talking when we have Apache helicopters flying over our heads in Belt Sahour. What are we going to talk about, the Bible and God? Let's talk about people being killed." Father alSiryani said.
Working women strive for balance Poverty is
Christians dowry
By Cindy Wooden ROME (CNS) - The balance working women strive to find between careers and family life is a constant process requiring tough decisions as well as true partnerships with their husbands, said speakers at a Rome conference. Legionaries of Christ Father Michael Ryan, dean of philosophy at Rome's Regina Apostolorum University, compared the balancing process to tightrope walking at the end of the March 7-8 conference. "Balance is a continuous task because the forces at play change continuously," he said. "One moves ahead with tiny steps, one after the other, as if each step were the only step. "In the same way, a working woman must care for all the little things of everyday life to keep herself well, to give her family what it needs and to be effective at work," Father Ryan said. Although the conference, coinciding with the March 8 celebration of International Women's Day, focused on women and work, Father Ryan and other speakers pointed out that men have the same obligation to balance work and family life. Tom Hirschfeld, who with his wife wrote "Business Dad: How Good Businessmen Can Make
Indian mown cany sand on their heads a in Chandigarh, northern India, on International Women's Day, 2002. Photo CN&Reuters
Great Fathers," said that a woman's ability to balance career and family often depends on the role her husband is willing and able to play. Hirschfeld said parenting is a "joint venture partnership," requiring the contributions of two parties who know each other well before beginning, who plan carefully, who contribute equally, who agree on the division of labor and who have an agreed-on mechanism for resolving problems. Mary Cunningham Agee, founder of the U.S.-based Nurturing Network, told the conference that finding balance is not a matter of following checklists, but of
putting one's vocation ahead of one's career. "Family and marital commitments, once entered into, must still be regarded as primary. for they constitute a genuine vocation or calling from God." she said. Marjorie Dannensfelser, chairman of the board of the Susan B. Anthony List, a pro-life political action committee, told the conference balancing family and professional commitments involves a continuous struggle to find time to pray and to talk calmly with one's family. "We have to constantly ask God to help us reassess old decisions in light of our priorities," she said.
Brazilians to get their first Saint By Use Alves SAO PAULO, Brazil (CNS) Brazilians are waiting eagerly for the canonisation of the country's first saint, an Italian nun who lived most of her life in the South American country. "She may have been born in Italy, but she lived here most of her life; it was here where she began her religious life and here where miracles were conceded due to homage and requests from Catholics to Mother Paulina," said Cardinal Claudio Hummes of Sao Paulo. "We have been waiting for this (Brazil's first saint) for a long time," he said. The Vatican announced February 26 that Blessed Paulina do
The Record, March 14 2002 Page 12
Coracao Agonizante de Jesus, born Amabile Visintainer in northern Italy in 1865, will be canonised on May 19. When she was a child, Blessed Paulina's family moved to Brazil, where in 1895 she founded the Little Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. She died in 1942. Most Brazilian citizens consider her a native Brazilian; many Brazilians already considered Blessed Paulina a saint. In Nova Trento, where Blessed Paulina worked, church bells rang and special Masses were held in honour of the Vatican announcement. It has been 37 years since the request for her canonisation and 20 years since Sister Celia Cadorin, who met Blessed Pauli-
na when she was 14 years old, has been working for the church's recognition of her mentor. "It is a victory of the congregation, of the population and of the Brazilian church," Sister Cadorin said. In the sanctuary built for Blessed Paulina in Nova Trento, hundreds of photographs, requests, thankyou notes and flowers have adorned the walls and part of the floor since she was beatified in 1991.
Nova Trento has become the most visited religious tourist attraction after the Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida in Sao Paulo state. Nova Trento authorities plan to build a larger sanctuary to honour Blessed Paulina.
ALANDHAR, India (CNS) MOther Teresa's successor urged the Indian bishops to address the various needs of the poor. The church "is expected to have the same mind and heart of Christ" in its dialogue with the poor that cannot be sustained If we are not souls of prayer, silence, contemplation, asceticism and compassion," Missionaries of Charity Sister Nirmala joshi told the March 1-8 plenary meeting of the Indian bishops' conference in Jalandhar. Sister Nirmala said March 2 that the church is "of the poor" and that poverty is the Christians' dowry. In India, dowry customarily refers to money and gifts the bride's parents offer to the bridegroom as a precondition for marriage. Sister Nirmala said Christians who want to dialogue with the poor should know the poor, understand their needs, respect and "genuinely love" them. Noting that some women congregations have planned to close their schools and hospitals so they can serve the poor. Sister Nirmala recalled Mother Teresa's advice that they remain where they are but open their institutions to the poor. The church, she said, has "always cherished the poor," whom she defined as those who are "hungry not only for bread but also for the word of God." Sister Nirmala cited "challenging places' where her nuns serve the poor, including Yemen and Sierra Leonne. The Missionaries of Charity have 4,000 nuns of 80 nationalities. They serve in 129 countries with 676 houses, 214 of them in India, Sister Nirmala said.
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Pope's resolve to serve not weakened by pain By John Thavis VAIsICAN CITY (CNS) -- An empty chair, a papal wince and a murmured phrase, 'This really hurts,' seemed to capture the uneasy mood at the Vatican in mid-March. Pope John Paul II, who has hobbled through the last few years of his pontificate, was battling a painful knee. It began in February and two weeks later had become so bad that the Pope had to cancel a string of appearances outside his papal apartment building. He skipped his general audience March 6 in the Paul VI Audience Hall, where his spotlighted papal throne sat empty on the stage. Afterward. the 81-year-old pontiff stood at his apartment window to greet pilgrims and thank them for their prayers. When he turned to step down from his platform he grimaced and -- before the microphone was turned off — remarked in Polish how much it ached.
Close papal aides whispered reassuring comments: The Pope had been given X-rays and a CT scan and would not need an operation. With proper rest, he would be in shape to preside over Easter celebrations in late March. And he is definitely not being forced into a wheelchair, they said. The Vatican and Rome are not designed for the disabled, and a 'rolling pontificate' quickly runs into serious architectural barriers. That's why the Pope had to cancel four straight Sunday visits to Rome parishes in February and March. The knee is the latest physical trial for a Pope who, more than any other pontiff in history, has lived out his illnesses and injuries in the public eye. Also in 1996, the Vatican confirmed that Pope John Paul was suffering from a nervous system disorder generally believed to be Parkinson's disease. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the Vatican's top doctrinal expert, said a few years ago that, through his suffering. the Pope was beginning
ported by his aides as he rises from a chair or walks up stairs. His neck and head are curved forward to the point that he must look up to look ahead. The other day, saying goodbye to two very tall Swiss Guards who were leaving Vatican service, the pope seemed unable to look them in the face. Precisely because mobility itself is a trial for the Pope, his aides are continually amazed by what he still can do -- and what he has planned. They say the pope still pushes himself, with a full slate of daily meetings, a heavy liturgical Pope John Paulllgreets pilgrims from schedule and at least three forhis apartment window. eign trips planned for this year, Photo Alessia Grultarn/Cathohc Press including an 11-day marathon to to witness the Gospel in a special North America. Seated on his throne. the Pope way before the world. 'I think that precisely in the often appears tired and remote in physical and spiritual suffering of the 24th year of his papacy. But the pope, which no one can pre- nothing brings out his energy like tend not to see, one can find a par- people. When his platform rolled ticular message of this second half of his pontificate,' the cardinal through the audience hall one morning in late February, the said. These days the Pope is often sup- Pope's eyes lit up as he passed
Pro-lifers differ on ballot defeat By Clan Molloy DUBLIN, Ireland (CNS) - The Irish bishops are disappointed at the narrow defeat of an abortion referendum, said a spokesman for the bishops' conference. The spokesman. Father Martin Clarke, told Catholic News Service that Irish citizens missed an opportunity to tighten the country's abortion laws. "Obviously, we are disappointed, particularly as the result means that the constitutional protection of the unborn continues to be undermined by the 'X case' Judgment," Father Clarke said, referring to the 1992 Irish Supreme Court case that allowed A Carmelite nun casts her vote in Irean abortion if a pregnant woman land's abortion referendum. threatened suicide. The March 6 referendum includ- be wrong if the referendum was ed a measure to end the suicide decided by a relatively small part provision, but the proposal was of the population because of a low rejected by a margin of less than turnout." he said. The referendum result revealed 1 percent. About 43 percent of the elec- an urban-rural divide, with voters torate voted, a figure Father In urban areas more likely to vote Clarke called "disappointing." "no" and voters in rural areas Before the election, some voters more likely to vote "yes." Voter expressed confusion about the turnout in urban areas was far greater than rural areas, referendum's wording. "If there had been a bigger observers said. Also influencing the referenturnout in rural areas particularly, the referendum would be car- dum's outcome was a division ried. A lot of the bishops said in among pro-life groups. While the their pastoral letters that it would
bishops and the Pro-Life Campaign backed the referendum. other leading personalities actively campaigned against its passage. Dana Rosemary Scallon, a former Catholic television personality and now an Independent member of the European Parliament, said the referendum did not protect the fetus from the moment of conception. "The vote is a victory for the unborn child. If there had been a wording acceptable to the whole pro-life community, this would have been carried by a big majority," she said. The Irish bishops were expected to discuss the referendum's result during their mid-March conference. Some voters complained about Catholic schools being used as polling stations since religious images - crucifixes, portraits of Pope John Paul II, saints and founders of religious orders hung on the walls of some polling halls. Following an objection at two polling stations. a Bible was removed from view. Bibles are used in Irish plebiscites for voters who do not bring identification material with them; they must swear on the Bible that they are who they claim to be.
through the crowd and touched outstretched hands. At one point, as an infant was passed up for a kiss, he delivered a near-karate chop to an arm that was reaching in too close, then held up an admonishing finger as if to say: Not when I'm holding a baby. Inevitably, the knee problems prompted media conjecture on potential successors to Pope John Paul and even some renewed speculation about the possibility of a papal resignation. The Pope's frame of mind on this question is probably best glimpsed in a recent encounter relayed by a Vatican source. When a group of Argentine bishops met the Pope in February, one of them thanked the pontiff for naming as a cardinal the archbishop of Buenos Aires, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio. 'He would make a good successor to you, Your Holiness,' the visiting bishop said. To which the Pope deadpanned: 'My successor has not been made a cardinal yet.'
Pope tells Diocese to stop counselling By Michael Lawton COLOGNE, Germany (CNS) Pope John Paul II has instructed the Diocese of Limburg to withdraw from a state-sponsored pregnancy counseling system, 15 months after other German dioceses withdrew. In a letter to Bishop Franz Kamphaus of Limburg. Pope John Paul said that, while he respected Bishop Kamphaus' conflict of conscience over the issue. "for the sake of the clarity and unity of the witness for life of the Catholic Church" he was requiring the diocese to follow the German bishops' decision to leave the program. "The withdrawal from the state system is to be carried out as quickly as possible," the letter said. The pope asked Bishop Kamphaus to have Auxiliary Bishop Gerhard Pieschl carry out the decision. All German dioceses, except Limburg, withdrew from the system by the end of 2000 under the Pope's orders. Bishop Kamphaus has maintained it was necessary "under conscience" for his diocese to remain in the program in order to reach women in need. Cardinal Karl Lehmann of Mainz, chairman of the German bishops' conference, said the Pope, in allowing the Limburg Diocese to continue in the statesponsored program, showed high regard for Bishop Kam-
phaus. Bishop Kamphaus said that the Pope had "tried to open a bridge for him" with the current solution. Some media speculated that the Vatican might impose a coadjutor in the diocese, which they said could have effectively deprived the bishop of any power. Some reported that the Vatican might pressure the bishop to retire when he turned 70 in February. With the papal instruction decision. the German church is officially united in its rejection of a system that provided a certificate allowing a legal abortion three days after pregnancy counseling. Under German law, abortion remains illegal, but a woman who is fewer than 12 weeks pregnant, who has certified counseling and waits three days before her abortion will not be punished. The counseling must be open-ended. but should be directed at helping the woman to decide to keep her child. Originally, the church's welfare organisations acted within the system. on the grounds that only then could they reach women who were uncertain and tell them that there might be other ways out of their situation than ending the pregnancy. In 1999, in a decision that caused controversy among church members, the bishops decided to follow a papal instruction to withdraw from the system by the end of 2000.
Push to force Catholic doctors to provide info on abortifacients By George Matysek BALTIMORE (CNS) - A bill that would require Catholic hospitals to provide information to rape victims about emergency contraceptives that can cause abortions has been introduced in the Maryland House of Delegates. The bill would require all Maryland hospitals. no matter their religious affiliation, to develop protocols for providing information about emergency contraceptives. The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene would have to approve the protocols. Jeffrey E Caruso, associate director of social concerns for the Maryland Catholic
Conference, said Maryland's bishops are scripts to doctors whose attention should be on urgent medical treatment, not on opposing the measure. The bill's proponents say emergency con- legal requirements that "force them to hand traceptives only prevent pregnancies. But out information about a pill." Rigid protoCaruso said they sometimes also prevent cols do not allow doctors to treat patients the implantation of a fertilized ovum, which as individuals, he said. "Doctors should be free to make an results in the destruction of a newly conassessment of all medical factors and preceived life. "It's a scientific fact that these pills can sent information in a way best suited to the sometimes block implantation, and when needs, maturity education level and emothat's the case we think hospitals have an tional state of a particular patient," Caruso ethical obligation to inform the assault vic- said. "We shouldn't force a one-size-fits-all tim of that fact." Caruso said. "It is not the approach." The ethical and religious directives that state's role to determine whether or not proceeding in that manner is an accept- govern Catholic hospitals say that if there is no evidence that conception has able protocol." Caruso said ills inappropriate to provide occurred, a rape victim may be treated with
medication that would prevent ovulation or fertilization or change sperm function. They say ills never permissible to initiate or recommend treatments that directly cause the removal, destruction or interference with the implantation of a fertilized ovum. Caruso noted that the church teaches that life begins at conception. The bill's supporters are defining pregnancy as beginning at implantation. he said. "We believe that conception is the moment at which God creates a new, unique human life in his image and likeness," Caruso said. "Our Catholic hospitals have a moral obligation to protect unborn life from its earliest stages." The Record, March 14 2002 Page 13
Asian Catholic News
Electoral system flawed: Hong Kong Catholics HONG KONG (UCAN) - Catholics in Labor Affairs Commission and the ProtesHong Kong have expressed discontent over tants' Christian Institute. the political electoral system and demandThe coalition, which drafted a policy ed greater attention for social minorities, paper for Tung, arranged to meet him midafter the territory's chief executive was March to submit the paper. reelected. The topics in the paper include political Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji formally development, poverty, and the rights of appointed March 4 Tung Chee-hwa as groups such as ethnic minorities, AIDS Hong Kong chief executive for a second patients, children and youth, and the elderfive-year term. ly. In a survey conducted by the justice and Tung won the election February 28 after he secured the support of the majority of peace and labor commissions, more than the 800-member Election Committee, rul- 90 percent of 1,014 surveyed Catholics in ing out any possibility of challengers. five parishes supported a one-person-oneThe committee elects the chief executive, vote direct election of the chief executive. and the election method can only be They said they would definitely vote should amended after 2007, according to the Hong the right exist. Over 60 percent of those who desired to Kong Basic Law, which is the mini-constitution of the Hong Kong Special Adminis- vote said they wanted to carry out their civic responsibility to choose a chief exectrative Region. Tung vowed to revive the economy and utive who could represent people's interimprove the administration's performance. ests. Less than 30 percent favoured Tung, but His second term begins July 1. However, a coalition of 15 Christian and half of them attributed their choice to the civic groups criticised the electoral system fact that no other candidate was available. saying it deprives people of the right to More than 70 percent also criticised the vote, denies equal participation in politics Election Committee as being unrepresenand misleads people into believing that an tative of the public. More than 80 percent of the respondents Improved economy will resolve all social expressed hope for direct elections of the problems. Over-emphasis on economic develop- chief executive and legislators within the ment and neglect of caring for social next five years. However, in another opinion poll that minorities were partly to blame for the people's discontent toward the govern- used the same questions prepared by the ment, said the coalition, consisting of the Christian groups and the Polytechnic Unidiocesan Justice and Peace Commission, versity's Applied Social Sciences Depart-
ment, 41 percent of the respondents favoured Twig's reelection. Fernando Cheung Chiu-hung, university lecturer, discounted the suggestion that the discrepancy was caused by Catholic leaders' diverse views of the government on Issues of abode-seekers, Falun Gong and the canonisation row over Chinese martyrs. No strong evidence links such reasons to the discrepancy, he said. Cheung said both polls showed that Tung won the election but lost public legitimacy and support. With weak recognition, the government will find it difficult to implement controversial policies, he noted. The polls also proved that local people were not apathetic to politics, he said. adding that the government should review the electoral system and adopt a more direct election method. Mary Yuen Mee-yin, executive secretary of the Justice and Peace Commission, said that Catholic groups will continue to encourage the lay faithful to play an active role in social affairs. Several pro-democracy legislators and other protesters who are against 'Ring's reelection staged a two-day hunger strike to express their discontent. 'Ring, 64, was sworn in as the first chief executive on July 1, 199Z the date of Hong Kong's reversion to China. Critics regard the current level of weak support for 'Ring as a result of his limited efforts to defend Hong Kong liberties and stop economic recession.
Tribal youth get training ALCHATRA, Bangladesh (UCAN) - The Church in Bangladesh has launched a series of training programs for young tribal Christians to help them develop leadership, face social problems and preserve their culture. "A systematic, concentrated plan for widespread training of Christian tribal youth to fit them for social leadership is going on this year." said Father Richard Timm. project organiser. The Holy Cross priest told UCA News that the first program has already taken place and further programs have been planned in various parts of the country in March. April and August. He added that funding for the project comes from a US$10,000 Magsaysay Project Grant. The first such training program was held February 20-24 at Corpus Christi Parish in Jalchatra. 120 kilometres north of Dhaka. Some 120 Mandl (Gam) tribal men and women, mostly college students, participated in the livein organised by the parish's Jus-
lice and Peace Commission. They learned about their tribal origins and heritage, Mandi marriage customs in relation to canon law, faith life, Christian leadership, and justice and human rights Issues including the place of tribals in the Bangladesh Constitution. Purnima Sangma, who helped organise the program, told UCA News, "I became aware of my situation and the situation of my community. I will spread this awareness to my people so that they won't fall prey to the many dangers.' 'Raul Mri, a participant, said, "I understood through this seminar that Mandl people must become educated in order to lead the community." For Anjali Chisim, insecurity was the problem for women. However, "from this seminar we got encouragement to face up to this problem," she said. Apurba Mrong. president of the Garo Student Association and coordinator for the training, said, "It will be of great value to the
community if the participants have learned to work as a team." Shilpi. a teacher, said she will Integrate what she learned at the training program into her daily classes. "The situation among the Mandi is very bad now and it is necessary that the students learn more about justice and human rights," she added. Participants noted the "hostile social environment" they live in. Only a few days before the training an 18-year-old Mandi was murdered nearby. Every evening of the program, a cultural presentation in Mandl language was held in an effort to preserve the tribals' cultural identity. Participants performed skits demonstrating problems that their community encounters. Meanwhile. Father Timm said the April program will be organised by Holy Cross Father Liton Gomes for Khasi tribals working In tea plantations. The August program will be held in Mymensingh for other tribals of various religions, he added.
Christians to learn bioethics Robert Bishop SINGAPORE (UCAN) - Catholic Methodist and other Christian leaders in Solomon. Anglican Bishop John Singapore have agreed on the Chew, attended the gathering, the need to educate Christians about second in a series organised by bioethics issues and promote the Catholic Medical Guild. respect for human life. The meeting was a follow-up to The Catholic Medical Guild a seminar jointly organised by the brought together in February rep- guild and the llinity Theological resentatives of various Christian College last November. denominations to explore areas Bishop Solomon, who chairs the of cooperation to generate awareNational Council of Churches' ness about the fundamental moral and ethical challenges pre- Life Sciences Study Group, said sented by biotechnological issues education of the laity is necessary such as cloning and stem-cell as many are either "uninformed or ill-informed." research. The Methodist bishop, also head Archbishop Nicholas Chia of of the college, emphasised the Singapore emphasised the need to conscientise the lay faithful as need for all Churches to pool their to how this technology and knowledge and resources together to make the awareness camresearch affects humanity. He told the meeting that educa- paign a success, adding that tion materials should be "simple, regular follow-up is "necessary." yet effective" to help people Bishop Chew talked about the understand and appreciate the difficulties and challenges facing sacredness of life. Christians in upholding the About 30 people. including sacredness of life in today's world. The Record; VItirchl 814007, 'Rigel 14
He exhorted all present not to give up, but to persevere in their efforts to educate the laity John Lee, co-chairman of the Archdiocesan Bioethics Committee, chaired the meeting. Other participants included Jesuit Father Colin Tan, spiritual director of the Catholic Medical Guild, and Catholic moral theologians Father James Yeo and Redemptorist Father Bernard Teo. The government of Singapore has been investing heavily in the development of life sciences since 2000 with some analysts saying it hopes to make biotechnology the fourth pillar of the country's manufacturing industry As some experiments in life sciences may present major ethical problems, Singapore archdiocese established last year the Archdiocesan Bioethics Committee to educate the clergy, laity and Religious on the Church's stand on bioethical issues.
Chinese migrant Wang Wand carries her young son during a demonstration with hundreds of other Chinese migrants, January this year, In Hong Kong. Her card reads, "I am a Chinese migrant mother. I beg the government to allow me to stay behind and feed my baby." Hong Kong said it may use minimum force to repatriate illegal Chinese migrants who stay In the territory beyond.
Nathanson warns of US abortion path MANILA (UCAN) - A former American abortionist told guests at a Catholic college in Manila that he came to the Philippines "to persuade Filipinos not to follow in the footsteps" of the United States in legalising abortion. Abortion is a "perversion of autonomy," said New YorkBernard based Doctor Nathanson who lectured from February 16-17 at St Paul's College in downtown Manila. Nathanson, founder of the U.S. National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws, has claimed responsibility for 75,000 abortions including that of his own child. He said new technology and an Opus Del priest helped convert him to oppose abortion. The former abortionist, who coined the slogan "freedom of choice," said he fed media with false data in the 1970s. inflating the number of illegal abortions from 100,000 to 1 million to lobby for legalized abortions. After abortion was legalized in New York. the association shifted focus to other states, he said. In 1973. the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortion in the country. The American doctor said his group "used the Catholic Church as the 'whipping boy' for our cause," noting that the Institutional Church "was traditional and conservative and was not in keeping with the times." He left his abortion clinic in 1975 and worked at the Obstetrics Department of St. Luke's Hospital in New York where new technologies, notably ultrasound, convinced him that "the fetus is a human being at an early stage." He asked a colleague to videotape an abortion procedure, parts of which were used to produce the documentary "The Silent Scream." Shown in several countries, the film won major prizes in five film festivals. Nathanson distanced himself from abortion activities and studied feotology and bioethics
instead. Years later, he met Opus Dei Father John McCloskey, a theologian and 'intellectual," who "was best equipped" to deal with him. He said Father McCloskey guided his search for faith with reason. In December 1996, Nathanson, who described himself as an "atheist Jew," converted to Catholicism. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Patrick's Cathedral In New York City. He now studies advanced reproductive technologies and their moral and ethical implications and lobbies against abortion. At the lectures, he discussed the use of reproduction-enhancing drugs, artificial insemination and reproduction, cell transplants and cloning. The doctor also talked about drugs that allow women to produce 5-20 ovulated eggs. which he said "may present problems In multiple pregnancies." Women could go into labor prematurely and babies may be born small with most having neurological complications such as cerebral palsy seizures and mental retardation, he said. For Nathanson, in vitro fertilisation is morally and ethically wrong "because the act of procreation does not take place in a loving environment but in a laboratory." He called cloning "manufacturing, not procreating" since it Involves only one party "The child will be living a life not his," he added. Nathanson also believes that stem-cell research and transplants are unethical and immoral because embryos would have to die before their stem cells can be extracted. No research has completely succeeded in replacing wornout organs, he noted. Nathanson warned against the abuse of genetic enhancements saying it may lead to eugenics which abuses science "creating super-races and under-races."
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aving attended the government initiated Women's Conference by the Women's Policy Office there was heated debate on IVF being made accessible to all single women irrespective of their marital status. The focus seemed to be more on the rights of women. The wellbeing of children and their rights to a mother and a father were not considered. "Defects higher in IVF" ( West Australian March 8). Seems to highlight the problems associated with children artificially conceived. If the percentage of naturally conceived children is halved compared to IVF as reported in your paper, those meddling in the affairs of our Supreme Creator need legislation to set limits. IVF should be totally banned for all women as scientific experimentation is not acceptable. for human beings to be used as guinea pigs. Mary D Lyra Gosnells
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f J.K. Rowling's childrens novels are proven to be a pernicious and dangerous force based on the fact that a University has chosen to cash in on their popularity by offering a questionable course on magic, does it therefore mean that the novels of i.R.R. Tolkien are also
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dangerous and highly unsuitable for Catholic readers? "The Hobbit" and the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy were the inspiration for "Dungeons and Dragons" and all the other fanta,,N role playing games. The names and attributes of man of the characters in these games directly correlate to beings in Tolkien's books. Yet Tolkien is acknowledged to be an acceptable Catholic author and I have yet to hear anyone talk of the pernicious influence of Gandalf the wizard on an impressionable generation. Is it not a non sequitur to suggest that because elements of the original have been exploited in a perverse x% \ that the original is perverted? I was unfortunate enough to turn on the television during the screening of the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. I did not however feel compelled to write to The Record condemning religious orders for Inspiring numbers of sad people to dress in habits and cavort lewdly in the streets. I find it hard to understand such flawed logic. Having read the books there seems so little within them to inspire such lengthy debate. Indeed the only Latin phrase necessary for any poor deluded individual who is considering paying the exorbitant fee to gain a university certificate in "Sorcery, Witchcraft, Shamanism and Healing" as a consequence of reading four childrens' books is caveat emptor. Timothy Parish Leeming
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Reconciliation, Leederville Parish - Archbishop Hickey Mass commencing 40-hour Fast for Peace. St Mary's Cathedral - Archbishop Hickey Mass celebrating the Feast of St Joseph, Villa Terenzio Bishop Sproxton Procession for the Feast of St Joseph. Villa Terenzio Archbishop Hickey Mercy Chapel Reception. Mercy Hospital - Bishop Sproxton Chrism Mass, St Mary's Cathedral - Archbishop Hickey. Bishop Sproxton Mass of the Lord's Supper. St Mary's Cathedral A rchbishop Hickey
Archdiocesan Panorama LATIN MASSES St Patrick's day, Monday 18 March - 6.30pm. Church followed by Benediction. Tuesday 19th March. 10am. St John's Pro-Cathedral. Victoria A venue. Perth. All welcome. Enquiries: Fr Michael Rowe 9444-9604. BULLSBROOK PILGRIMAGE Virgin of the Revelation, 36 Chittering of Shrine R oad. Bullsbrook. Next monthly pilgrimage Sunday 31 March at 2pm. Catechetical Meditation 1.15pm by Bruno Cornacchiola, founder of S ACRI. Allare welcome. Reconciliation from 1.30pm, followed by Rosary procession. Benediction and blessing of the sick. Bus transport ph: 9277 5378. Information: SACRI ph: 9447 3292. STATIONS OF THE CROSS AT BULLSBROOK Outdoor Stations of the Cross will be blessed on Passion Sunday March 24 at 2.00pm, at the Shrine of the Virgin of the Revelation. Meditation of the Lord's passion will follow. Reconciliation at 1.30pm. Inquiries ph: SACRI 9447-3292. ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimage to Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Grotto. Sunday 5 May at Bove's Farm, Roy Rd, Jindong (off Bussell Hwy between Busselton and Margaret River). Commences 12.30pm with Concelebrated Mass. Rosary Procession and Benediction. Tea/coffee provided. Bus bookings: Francis Williams 9459-3873 or 0408-893-877 BENEDICTINE OBLATES LAY APOSTOLATE St Benedict's 'Rule' of life and the gospels are discussed at our monthly meetings at St Joseph's Convent, York St, South Perth on Sunday March 17 at 2pm. We also honour another great saint and patron of Ireland, St Patrick. Afternoon tea provided. Religious Sisters. Brothers and Priests interested in the Rule of St Benedict will be very welcome. Inquiries: 9388-3026 CHANTING OF THE MASS Any Priest or Deacon wanting to improve their chanting the Mass: Fr. Tim Deeter has kindly accepted to give a lesson on Thursday. March 21 2.30-4.30pm in St Mary's Cathedral choir room.
NOVENA DEVOTION In honour of St Joseph every Wednesday at 1pm at St Mary's Cathedral. Please join us in prayer. CELEBRATE GOD'S FORGIVENESS The Sacrament of Penance will be celebrated in Second Rite of Reconciliation. Friday March 22 at 7pm. Redemptorist Monastery. 190 Vincent St. North Perth. An opportunity to find the peace that only Christ can give. Everyone Welcome. MYSTICAL THEOLOGY - THE ART OF LOVE Presenter: Andrew Kania (PHD). S5 (Donation unwaged) multipurpose room, John XXIII College. Tuesday 19 March. 7.30-9.30pm. FILLING MY SPIRITUAL WELL IGNATIAN SPIRITUALITY Presenter: Murray Graham (Inigo Centre Director). Donation only, for !nig°. Multipurpose room John XXIII College. Sat 23 March. 11am-1pm. HOLY WEEK PROGRAMME YANCHEP, TWO ROCKS, GUILDERTON AND LANCELIN
Holy Thursday: Yanchep 7.30pm, (St James, Lagoon Dr.) Good Friday: Lancelin 10am (Our Lady of Fatima), Guilderton 1pm (Community Hall), Yanchep: 4pm. Easter Vigil: Yanchep 7pm,
Easter Sunday: Lancelin 9am. Guilderton 11.30am. Contact: Fr Francis Ph: 9561-2172. E XCITING OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH WORKER A ntioch seeks a part time co-ordinator who is an experienced individual with an appreciation of young adult/teenagers in today's Catholic environment. Flexible hours, some weekend and night work. car essential. Inquiries Margaret Fennessy 9388 0773, Catholic Youth Office: 9221 5904. HOLY FACE OF JESUS PRAYER GROUP We meet on Tues March 19 at Holy Trinity Church, 8 Burnett St. Embleton. beginning with Adoration a t 7.30pm followed by prayer meeting. Please bring a plate to share a 'cuppa'. COUNTRY DAY OF REFLECTION St Joseph's Church (the centenary of this church). Northam on Mon 18 March. commencing 10am (Morning tea 9.30-10am). Rosary. Cenacle. talks. Confession. Mass at 2pm.Theme: Lent. a time of grace. Speaker Fr Michael Moore SM. B YO lunch, tea/coffee supplied. Contacts: Northam 9622 5963. Metro 9446 1935. C ANDLELIGHT WALK FOR PEACE In the wake of grieving the catastrophic events that have threatened our world, you are invited to symbolically carry a light into our darkened world by walking the sacred path of the labyrinth. Fri 22 March, 7.30 - 9pm Our Lady of Grace Pastoral Centre. Kitchener St. North Beach. Donation only. Socks are requested for walking the labyrinth. Inquiries: Angela King 94478130
DIVINE MERCY RESIDENTIAL RETREAT The Divine Mercy Apostolate invites all to a weekend of prayer and reflection at the Epiphany Centre, Fifth Ave. Rossmoyne from Fri evening 22 March. 6.30pm to Sun 24 March. 4pm. Main celebrant: Fr Meilak OFM. Inquiries: John 9457 7771. DAY OF PRAYER FOR YOUNG MEN On Sat 23 March Fr Hugh Thomas will lead a day of prayer and reflection on vocation for men aged 17-50. Place: Redemptorist Monastery. 190 Vin-
cent St. North Perth. 9am to 5.30pm. Inquiries: 9328 6600. HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS Sat 23 March, 10-h am, at the Redemptorist Church. North Perth, with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF GOOD HEALTH VAILANKANNI 23 March at 5pm. followed by Vigil Mass at 6pm. Holy Trinity Church. 8 Burnett St. Embleton. All are welcome. GOOD FRIDAY - DESOLATA On Good Friday night. the Servites. Order of Servants of Mary, remember the pain and anguish of the Mother of Jesus as she watched Him die and be buried. Servite Friar, Fra Leo will continue the ancient tradition at the Desolate Service in St Denis Church, Joondanna. at 7.30pm. Fri 29 March. All are welcome. Please be seated early. GOOD FRIDAY CEREMONIES AT BINDOON Catholic Agricultural College 12 noon - Stations of the Cross, 2pm - Performance of Passion Play, 3pm - Solemn Ceremony - The Lord's Passion. Confessions from 10.30am and after Stations of the Cross. All are welcome.Transport departs St Mary's Cathedral 10am for Bindoon.
The Record, March 14 2002 Page 15
The Last Mouthful
ovena aids weight loss 'You start applying it to other parts of your life -- such as your income, your home, our years ago, Suzanne Fowler, a your marriage — rather than always wantmember of Church of Nativity Parish ing more,' said Murphy, who is married in Leawood and mother of seven, and the mother of two children, including could barely buckle her belt or fit into a 10-year-old with Down syndrome. 'The extra-large sweat pants. That was 47 kids are fine just as they are. Your relapounds (21 kgs) ago. tionship isn't perfect but its OK as it is.' Fowler identifies with the people who Since then, the Light Weigh weight-loss program she created has grown to more buy the program because she has strugthan 600 groups in every state and in Cana- gled with being overweight and trying to stay on diets since the third grade. Yet nothda, Ireland and Australia, as well. For Louise Gagne of Menomonee Falls, ing worked — not even the crux of the Light Wis., the Light Weigh program was literal- Weigh program, which consists of eating ly an answer to her prayers. Gagne, who smaller amounts of everyday food. el discovered that if I ate what I wanted holds the program's record for shedding 80 pounds (32 kgs) in a year, heard about the and ate small amounts, I was able to lose system from her sister. Cecile Van Hecke. weight,' she said. "But I still was never able Van Hecke had been praying a novena to get to where I am now. I still was 37 asking to find a weight-loss program with pounds(16kgs) heavier.' a spiritual dimension. On the last day of Missing was the spiritual aspect. 'One of the novena, she saw a broadcast about the biggest connections to faith is that peoLight Weigh on EWrN. ple turn to food in most cases for an emo'That episode wasn't supposed to air that tional reason — stress, anxiety, depression, night.' said Gagne, who now wears a size boredom. loneliness,' Fowler said. 'It's an 14 or 16 instead of a size 22. 'It was kind of attempt to fill this void that God has given a fluke — a divine fluke, you might say. My each person so we'll seek him. Instead, we sister started a group out of her home, and tend to want to go to everything else but I joined.'But as founder, Fowler is quick to him.'The light Weigh program requires at point out that the program is not just anoth- least three people to form a group in order er diet plan. to ensure accountability, encouragement 'The program really is not about losing and communal Bible study. They meet in a weight, although that is a tremendous ben- church or in an individual's home. There efit which draws people,' she said. 'It's real- are no weigh-ins, no diet plans. and no prely about connecting with God through our pared foods or recipes. faith — which is an absolute gold mine. All A typical meeting lasts 90 minutes once a these Catholic things we've dusted off and week for 12 weeks, but participants can brought out into the light -- they're very continue in the program as long as they powerful: want after the initial 12 weeks. The Light Weigh program helped NativiThe first half-hour consists of Bible study. ty parishioner Bridget Murphy drop two Then the group views a videotape, which dress sizes. Learning to satisfy her appetite covers four areas — a foundational fact from with smaller portions, such as only half of the Catholic faith; a saint of the week: an a Big Mac hamburger, was key. But the eating example; and a topic of the week Catholic faith component was far more from the Light Weigh workbook. Fowler important to her than the weight loss. said the common-sense approach of Light 'You can count on more spiritual growth Weigh can be observed in the natural eatthan weight loss.' she said. In fact, she ing habits of healthy young children. Active found the program to be transforming as 'a children are not overweight because they very peaceful way to live.' Being satisfied don't eat when they're not hungry and 'are with less becomes a way of life, she said. very sensitive to the discomfort of being By Monte Mace
F
A student chef in the culinary arts program at Joliet Junior College in Joliet, Ill., prepares a nutritious dish. Photo: Anne PtaseckrCathoirc Expiorer
overfull.' she said. But Fowler believes the encouraging news is that adults can relearn these childlike eating habits, even though It's not easy. 'You have to struggle,' she said. 'But if you're willing to struggle and apply these techniques, which are centuries old
and were developed by the saints to strengthen themselves ... you can use the techniques to conquer anything in your life." ail at: thelightweighMol.cona or on
Lent could be a fishy affair By Anne Piasecki
A
lthough regulations specify meatless meals on Fridays during the Lenten season, chef Michael McGreal believes the sacrifice serves a dual role -- it meets church obligations and promotes healthy eating habits. No longer is Friday night defined by fish sticks, macaroni and cheese or tuna casserole. Fresh fish is plentiful, and shipments from Europe, Indonesia or Taiwan offer seafood-eaters an opportunity to indulge in a few special recipes, according to McGreal, chairman of culinary arts at Joliet junior College. Fish dinner once meant deep-fried or bread-battered recipes, resulting in highcholesterol, high-calorie, heavy meals.
Serving lobster or red snapper once conjured simultaneous visions of drizzled butter and lemon wedges. Today, heightened awareness about proper nutrition and low-fat diets has caused chefs to redesign their recipe books to include dishes that are both flavourful and low-fat. It's not hard, said McGreal. Meals comprised of swordfish, Dover sole, catfish and more can be prepared at home as well as in upscale restaurants. He suggests pan-searing most fish dishes in olive oil for approximately 10 minutes, and perhaps a bit longer depending on the thickness of the piece. Unlike chicken or pork, if the fish isn't cooked quite thoroughly, there is little danger of food poisoning because there is no fat to attract bacteria. With fish, the
trick is not to overcook it; this tends to ruin the texture of the product that is rich in vitamin D. McGreal promotes the use of fish because, unlike chicken, it's already skinless and is free of the fat that typically embodies pork and beef meals. These low-calorie meals are prime for spice experimentation, he said. The chef warned against drowning the piece in mounds of spices, but said a dash of Thai paste or curry along with a bit of salt and pepper offers a full-flavoured dish. For beginners, McGreal suggests a meal of baked Dover sole topped with lemon basil because the process of filleting is easy. Simply slice the fish along the edge and remove the comblike bone with relative ease. This is a flat fish, so the bone structure is minimal and easily dislodged,
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he said. Serve with fresh carrots, a glass of white wine and fresh berries served on a flaky light strudel. For chef George Macht at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn. the Lenten season is a good time to serve up healthy, hearty meals, such as vegetable soup. 'In my way of thinking, we need to pay attention to the vegetables that are in season. We need to cut back on meat and gather up some good-quality produce,' he said. He relies on root vegetable, including carrots, turnips and rutabaga. 'You can do a lot with a meatless entree, but soup is good on cold days,' according to Macht. The canned variety of tomato will suit for a wholesome base that is flavoured with fresh root vegetables and some additional canned varieties.
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