Issuu

with the Vicar of Christ i i MAY TEL: 9449 9000

General: That Christians may we their faith consistently and so be credible witnesses to the hope of the Gospel. Missionary: That, with the help of Mary, Most Holy Virgin and Mother, the social and family vocation of women may be safeguarded and promoted in every country and culture.

432 SCARBOROUGH BEACH RD OSBORNE PARK DL 01491

WA's only Catholic weekly newspaper Perth: May 23 2002 Price: Si

M a VO

By Benedict Rogers Special Correspondent in Dili

DILI (UCAN) - The Catholic Church in East Timor will continue to be the "moral voice" on behalf of the people in the newly Independent nation. Bishop Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo says. East Timor declared independence after midnight May 20 at a ceremony in the seaside capital of Dili. becoming the world's newest country. After centuries of Portuguese colonial rule, in December 1975 Indonesia invaded East Timor and annexed it the following year. More than 200,000 East Timorese were killed or died of disease or famine during Indonesia's 24year rule. In a 1999 referendum, the people of East Timor voted for Independence: the United Nations helped guide the transitional government that prepared the country for independence. Bishop Belo, apostolic administrator of Dili, said that during the 24-year Indonesian rule, the Church worked tirelessly as the voice of the voiceless. "The Church was the only independent institution that raised its voice on behalf of the people, while other voices were almost reduced to total silence," said the Salesian bishop, noting that this would continue. "If something is wrong. we will say it is wrong. If something is good, we will say 'congratulations,'" said the co-winner of the 1996 Nobel Peace Prize. "We will speak about how to avoid corruption, how to appeal to East Timorese people to work harder, how to maintain peace and tranquility," Bishop Belo told media three days before independence May on 17. The Church will continue to work tirelessly "not only for the soul, but for the body also," he said referring to development

FOR A GREAT DEAL ON A NEW HONDA, PARTS, ACCESSORIES, SERVICE, FINANCE OR ANY MAKE OF QUALITY USED CAR.

Bishop Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo arrives for an outdoor Mass in Dili on May 19, the day before East Timor officially became an independent nation. Bishop Belo said the church would be a moral voice in the new country. Photo CNS/Reuters

work needed in East Timor. The Church will focus on making "dynamic human potentialities" of the people to support the country's development, he said, adding that the new country faces "huge challenges" in areas of reconstruction, education and health. "The Church will continue

to defend East Timorese people their spiritual, cultural and social values, and promote a culture of peace and civilization based on love and mutual respect," added the Timorese bishop. East Timorese culture should be promoted "based on Christian values, the Universal Declaration

of Human Rights and on the social doctrine of the Church," Bishop Belo said. He thanked the international media for its role in helping the East Timorese in their struggle and urged the media to continue supporting the new nation. "The fight is continuing. We have

to keep fighting, struggling to defend East Timor in international forums, to get the financial and technical assistance necessary for the development of this country," he said. Continued page 2 also Bishop Belo on prostitution. Salesians in Timor page 16.

WA students' lives enriched by poverty S even students, two teachers and a nun from the Mandurah Catholic College have recently returned from a 23-day visit to Nairobi where they worked with a Danish religious order and Mercy sisters among the impoverished children in slum districts. The students came back with lasting impressions of the happy children despite their poverty - and eager to offer exchange visits. The school's pastoral care nun, Sister

Kathy Kettle, said the visit had been a when the trip was initially arranged last great success and there were hopes of year. organising another in about two years. The two teachers. Mrs Jo Neagle and Students taking part in the trip were Steve Biggs, and Sr Kettle accompanied Adam Rizzi, 16, of Country Road, Jenna the group. Wooltarton, 16, of Falcon. Matthew SnowApart from visiting schools and crisis den, 16, of Mandurah, Abby Johansen, 16, centres, they worked in a baby centre and of Mandurah, Hialeah Fearnhead, 16, of orphanage, and went on a wild life safari. Parlklands, A.shlee Melvey, 16, of Falcon See centre pages for full story and all of Year 12 at the college and Ewan more pictures. Dickson, 18, of Country Road, who was in Right Ewan Dickson with the children of the Year 12 and who accepted as a participant family where the students stayed in Nairobi.

For the best deals on Holden, H.S.V., Volvo and Suzuki and a great range of used vehicles talk to Brian Gardner Motors on 9356 Juuu

or just call in and speak to their friendly staff at Brian Gardner Motors, Cnr Wharf Street & Albany Highway Cannington.

Record

23 May, 2002

'Pope's solidarity with sufferers is noble' In a week which has seen further media speculation on the possibility of a papal resignation Archbishop Hickey told secondary students how the Pope perseveres despite what many people would regard as the 'mortifying' symptoms of his disease.

here are many noble features about the Pope's suffering, but perhaps the most important is his solidarity with people who suffer afflictions which make them feel humiliated and shunned in public, Arch-

bishop Barry Hickey told students at St Brigid's College, Lesmurdie, last Friday. Archbishop Hickey said Mass and presented the Year 12 students copies of the book Pope John Paul II Speaks to Youth. The Archbishop had the book prepared and published in Perth to give all Year 12 students in the Archdiocese a summary of the inspiring messages the Pope has been delivering to young people around the world since, and including, his 1986 visit to Australia. Addressing the question of the Pope's health, Archbishop Hickey said the Pope's extraordinary dedication to his work in the face of great suffering was an inspiration to all, but perhaps the greatest feature of his suffering was his iden-

Pope John Paul II is calling for YOUR prayers - Page 15

Winter Mass Times in Mandurah Our Lady of the Assumption From 1 June till 1 November Saturday evening: 6pm Sunday morning: Barn and 9.30am The Church is located in Creery St, cnr Stevenson St. Mandurah The Church is open daily from 9am to 4pm with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

MARIAN EUCHARISTIC CONFERENCE FRIDAY 31 MAY AND SATURDAY 1 JUNE 2002

The special guest speaker with be FAITIER PAUL MARIA SIGL of the Family of Mary Co-Redemptrix. from Italy. accompanied by four of his Sisters from the same Community. The Sisters will provide music/hymns for the day. All priests are welcome at both venues to concelebrate Holy Mass. Friday 31 May 2002, 7.3Opm: Fr Paul will be celebrating Holy Mass and giving a talk at Corpus Christi Church. 43 Loche St. Mosman Park (next to lona College). Saturday 1 Juno: Assemble at Mercedes College. Victoria Square. Perth at 9am. Mass with Archbishop Hickey at 10am at Cathedral, including some communities in national dress. Talks - inspirational music - slides. BYO lunch. Tea/coffee will be provided. The program concludes at 4.30pm Contact: 9383 3255

Pastoral Care Course in Mental Health

Contact Pastoral Care Department on 9347 6635 Monday - Friday 9am - 3pm Numbers are limited Applications close 31 May. Page 2

"Television stations all over the world show him unable to control the tremors in his hand, but he does not falter because he is at one with many others who suffer these difficulties. "There are many who would like people with disabilities to stay out of sight, but the Pope lets himself be seen in all his frailty as a great act of solidarity with all the other sufferers in the world, buoyed by the knowledge that no physical weakness can change the fact that he and they are made in the image and likeness of God." Archbishop Hickey assured the students that the Pope was fully aware of all that was going on around him in the world and that his remarkable intellect and holiness were giving the Church and the world the guidance they need.

Senate embryo attack Care needs to be taken to investigate who will benefit from embryonic stem cell research, Queensland Senator Ron Boswell told the Parliament in Canberra on Monday. Sen Boswell, National Party Leader in the Senate and the man who took on and beat One Nation said major pharmaceutical companies were likely to benefit most, making their executives instant millionaires. Media hype and the spin generated by its supporters to date had emphasised the bedazzling prospect of some mite cured of a debilitating or life threatening illness. But closer examination showed the companies stood to gain immensely from world patents and exclusivity that could result from the research. Yet there was no comprehensive analysis of the private and public funding available to embryo research companies, he said. Questions remain unanswered on the relationship between the companies and governments at state and federal levels. Sen Boswell asked who will own the intellectual property, copyrights or patents resulting from the government-supported research and what are the values of the outcomes of

that research to the pharmaceutical companies? He questioned the difference between the new, trendy biotech fever and the gold fever of old. He also raised the prospect it might fizzle out as the dot.com fever did. The difference of the stem cell research from other government-supported research projects needed to be examined closely. Pharmaceutical companies needed to be measured on the same standards as other companies benefiting from other research projects. Company executives were already on public record from their evidence presented to a Senate Inquiry two years ago gloating over the prospect of making much money from the results of the research. Sen Boswell's submissions highlighted that companies eager to do the destructive research had other agendas. The in vitro industry have been trying for years for permission for experimentation. Bishops challenge PM to release the facts on vested Interests and profits in embryo research- Page 10

'Moral voice' - a daunting challenge Continued from Page 1 The most daunting challenge, he added, is the reconstruction of schools and other facilities. "We are the new nation of this millennium, but we are one of the poorest in this region," he said. East Timor should build a new relationship with Indonesia, putting the "brutal occupation behind them," the bishop said. In 1999, Bishop Belo was evacuated when his residence was attacked by proIndonesia militiamen killing at least 30 people after a U.N.-sponsored referendum opted for independence from Indonesia. Troops and militia then unleashed a month-long wave of violence, killing hundreds. "The past is the past. Let us work for the future," he said. Indonesia should learn from its experience in East Timor and adhere to democratic principles in the future, he added. However, Bishop Belo said he was "not

Graylands Hospital each Friday 5 July - 25 October 2002 Pastoral, health care workers and others may apply

and embarrassed when they slur their words. The Pope suffers this affliction in a very public way, but he does not allow it to stop him carrying the message of Jesus to the world," he said. "At times he has to hand his message to others to read for him because he can no longer get the words out, but he does not give up. "Many would think that having spittle running from the side of your mouth in public would be mortifying, but the Pope accepts it because others have to accept it. "It is humiliating and frustrating to be unable to walk or, at times, even to stand, but the Pope lets Archbishop Barry Hickey this weakness in himself be seen tification and solidarity with those in public because he knows that who suffer embarrassing illness- many others suffer the same and es. "Many people feel humiliated worse.

The Uniting Church Bookshop and Resource Centre

totally satisfied" with the truth and reconciliation process. "Serious crimes should be punished." he said. "I hear the voices of the widows, the complaints of raped women, of orphans, who don't want to meet the perpetrators of crimes in the streets. How to solve this?Ihave this complaint every day," he said. Although the overwhelming majority of East Timorese are Catholics, Bishop Belo said that relations with minorities Protestants and Muslims - are good. "We never show our predominant role. We become humble," he said. Independence celebrations began with Sunday Mass at 6pm May 19. The Mass was said in Portuguese rather than native Tetum language, "to recall the beginning of Catholicism in East Timor by Dominican missionaries," he said. The Pope sent his congratulations along with a personal envoy, Archbishop Renato Martino, the Vatican's U.N. represen-

Having difficulty finding the books you want? Can we help you? Suppliers of theological and religious books, worship resources, music, cards, stoles Mail order available.

2nd Floor Wesley Centre. 93 William Street. Perth. GPO Box M952. Perth WA 6843 Tel: 9486 1577 Fax: 9486 1599 E-Mail: resource@wa.uca.org.au Visit us at: www.wa.uca.org.au/bookshop

tative, to the May 19 ceremonies marking the independence of the mainly Catholic nation. Accompanying the archbishop were Cardinal Julius Darmaatmadja of Jakarta, Indonesia, and Archbishop Renzo Fratini, apostolic nundo to Indonesia. "The hour of liberty has come," the Pope told Timorese in his message. "The time of reconstruction has arrived." He urged the East Timorese to build a society marked by justice, freedom, solidarity and peace. "Freedom, in fact, always must be defended and preserved, both from that which could imprison it as well as by counterfeits which can pervert it to the detriment of the human person and his dignity," the Pope wrote in his independence message. "This country which God is entrusting to your hardworking hands must be built on values which are essential to a true democracy," the Pope said.

Prostitution imported The Australian Catholic Telecommunications reported on Monday that East Timor's spiritual leader had accused foreigners of bringing prostitutes to his fledgling country and encouraging the spread of AIDS. Bishop Carlos Belo said on a flight he recently took from Bali, the plane was packed with teenage prostitutes from Thailand. It depends on the international community. Who needs the prostitution women?" he said. "I do not think they (the clients) are East Timorese. It is not the Church that imported the prostitution. "We know that there are houses of prostitutes in Dili. We know there have been signals of AIDS." There have been fears since the

United Nations took over the administration of East Timor in 1999 that its tenure of the country might trigger an AIDS crisis, especially given the nation's abject poverty and the general lack of employment A UN mission to Cambodia to prepare for the elections of 1993 is widely blamed for triggering an AIDS epidemic in that country. The UN workers in East Timor include some from African countries where the disease is common and the use of prostitutes widespread. UN staffers are generally paid salaries running to thousands of US dollars monthly and have the financial means to pay for sexual services.

23 May, 2002

111 Record

Dr Pell acts on Sydney gays Archbishop George Pell of Sydney gained national media attention last Sunday after he refused Communion to practising homosexuals and opponents of the Church's teaching on homosexuality at a Mass in Sydney's St Mary's Cathedral. He said sexual orientation is irrelevant to whether any Catholic can receive the Sacrament of Communion. In this instance, he said, the issue was to do with the principle that those who practise or publicly identify with activities contrary to Church teaching in a serious matter are not entitled to receive it. "This would apply, for example, to a married person openly living in or advocating adultery. Similarly, persons who openly declare that active homosexuals should be able to receive Communion take a position that is contrary to the teaching and discipline of the Universal Church," Dr Pell said. Dr Pell refused the Eucharist to about a dozen people identified by the media as homosexual or lesbian openly declaring their support for the option of homo-

sexual practice by wearing the rainbow sash, an emblem which has been adopted by the homosexual lobby and many related organisations. Instead, Dr Pell blessed them. On the same Sunday the Archbishop of Melbourne, Denis Hart, also refused Communion in a similar incident to individuals wearing the rainbow sash. Dr Pell took the uncustomary step after the Mass to issue a statement addressing the issue of homosexuals who request Communion. The statement said: "The Catholic Church offers goodwill to all sections of society and offers the promise of prayer and practical help where possible. We pray in particular for those in prisons not of their own making and for those who can only struggle slowly towards the truth," Dr Pell said. "While I accept that people may hold views on the appropriate expression of their sexual life and identity which differ from the Church's teachings, I deeply regret that such people - who profess the Catholic faith - would

ing homosexuals or someone who is homosexually oriented. Sexual orientation is morally irrelevant. The rule is basically the same for all Catholics. "A person who publicly defines himself at any given time as supporting or practising activities contrary to Church teaching in a serious matter is not entitled to receive Holy Communion. "This would apply, for example, to a married person openly living in or advocating adultery. Similarly, persons who openly declare that active homosexuals should be able to receive Communion take a position that is contrary to the teaching and discipline of the Archbishop Pell Universal Church. "Also, a person who is not a choose to mount an ideological demonstration during Mass, and member of the Catholic Church has no right to Catholic Commuespecially at Communion time. nion, except in exceptional cir"This is inappropriate. "Receiving the sacrament is the cumstances. "The Church's view on sexualiultimate expression of our Catholic faith, an intensely per- ty I have explained many times sonal matter between communi- before. "It is clear and unequivocal, and cant and Almighty God. An unworthy communion, wilfully derives from natural moral law, made, is a serious matter." Dr Pell which we believe is unchanging. said. "It's not a question of refus"Such moral law governs all peo-

ple everywhere, in precisely the same way, regardless of the circumstances under which they live. God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve and important consequences follow from this. "This incident allows me to explain the centrality of the Catholic teaching on marriage and family. "Our Judeo-Christian religious tradition allows men and women sexual expression within the bounds of family life, a sexuality that is life giving. Homosexual acts are contrary to the natural law; they close the sexual act to the gift of life. These teachings are given from our Christian point of view." Dr Pell said: "We have had these protests before. "Probably they will be with us for quite a time yet. "I will pray for the protesters. I do not promise to speak publicly on the theme at every protest. But the protesters must realise that the Church's teaching on this matter cannot, will not, change."

'Immoral' companies will come undone: Fels A former St Louis College student who is now chairman of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Professor Allan Fels, said last week that companies cannot achieve real success without demonstrating moral and ethical principles, . Professor Fels said there cannot be any true success in corporate life by abandoning morals and ethics in business. Companies that abandoned morals and ethics - that tried to hoodwink their competitors or consumers - came undone, sooner or later, he said. Professor Fels addressed an assembly of other academics, professionals and businessmen at the Parmelia Hilton Hotel on Thursday night, sponsored by the Edmund Rice Centre at Notre Dame University, and later spoke in an exclusive interview with The Record. He said his student days at St Louis School in Claremont had prepared him well for his role as Australia's corporate and con-

Chairman of the ACCC, Prof Allan Fels and the Vice Chancellor of Notre Dame, Professor Peter Tannock.

sumer watchdog. He said the Jesuits at the school dealt with the whole person. That meant learning social jus-

OUR CLOSING DOWN

SALE CONTINUES 9 AM MONDAY 27 MAY

60% OFF ALL STOCK

Ditcorini 858 HAY ST PERTH

tice issues - and moral and ethi- Trade and Competition at the the community. It is a non-profit Organisation of Economic Co- charitable organization associatcal behaviour. He said the Edmund Rice prin- operaton and Development. He ed with Notre Dame, and is a ciples of social justice and a fair said he was pleased to see that hands-on learning, teaching and deal for all were just as valid today Notre Dame had introduced an research centre structured within as they were when Rice founded Edmund Rice Centre. Notre Dame and has operated the first Christian Brothers' school "No university can function since 1993. It provides a practical in Waterford, Ireland. 200 years properly without acknowledging commitment to principles of ago. social justice issues and offering social justice and community serHe said individuals and compa- opportunities for people in vice. nies had to be prepared to show adverse circumstances," ProfesStudent-volunteers from the some compassion to the margin- sor Fels said. centre participate and contribute alised and those who had been The centre supports and encour- serving the community and deprived for one reason or anoth- ages the training of students to enabling them to reflect critically er from taking the full benefit of understand and participate in on this experience to foster the their skills and talents. offering service to society, partic- development of commitment to Companies recognising there is ularly to marginalised sections of community service activities. a wealth of talents among some of the marginalised + flat/vest Pilevivnases peoples of the world were in a better position to gain most in the world of commerce. ÷ Graces of France ÷ Treasures of Egypt Professor Fels has been Lourdes • Nevers chairman of the ACCC since Cairo • Alexandria Chartres 4 day Nile November 1995, and prior to Rocamadour • Paray River Cruise that was chairman of the Le Monial • Lisieux Aswan to Luxor Optional Paris Trade Practices CommisHurchada sion. He is also a present coSt Catherine's Departing 18 Sept 2002 - Mt Sinai chairman of the 3895 Departing in international Joint Group on November 2002

BOOKS ROSARIES STATUES PICTURES PLAQUES MEDALS CHAINS CASSETTES CD'S JEWELLERY CARDS CANDLES VESTMENTS CHALICES INCENSE CHARCOAL CERTIFICATES BOOKMARKS STICKERS NATIVITIES BABY GIFTS CHILDRENS BOOKS COMMUNION GIFTS CONFIRMATION GIFT BAPTISMAL GIFTS

PH: 9321 6655 AND MUCH

FOR SERVICE WITHINTEGRITY SINCE 1890

Encounter the lives of Vincent de Paul, Catherine Laboure, Therese of Lisieux, Margaret Mary Alacoque & Bernadette of Lourdes - some of our greatest saints! ,,

469 Two free bonus coupons within Europe induded

GRACES OF SPAIN Et PORTUGAL

Lourdes • Montserrat • Barcelona • Zaragoza Santo Domingo de Silos • Leon • Astorga Santiago de Compostela • Old Pilgrim's Way Fatima • Lisbon

Departing 1 October 2002 A journey through the rich faith heritage of Spain and Portugal

VISITATIONS OF MARY Departing in 2002: 9 tune accompanied by Fr John Hayes, Sept 10, Oct 9. Lisbon • Fatima • Avila • Garabandal • Loyola Lourdes • 15 days with an optional Medjugorje extension

Through the rich faith heritage of Portugal, Spain & France, we journey to some of the most venerated Marian shrines of the world. Extend to journey the pilgrim's road on 'Ave Maria'

MEDIUGORIE JOURNEY

Come, be a pilgrim of peace to the grace filled village of Medjugorje. Rome (2 nights) • Dubrovnik (1 night) Medjugorje (7 nights)

prices from

‘•*-F I LT,

Departing in 2002: 15 June - Medjugorje Anniversary with Fr Leo Burke, 17 August, 17 September, 19 October. Ask about Rome extension • Depart early for Lourdes 'Queen of Peace'

Flightworld Travel (08) 9322 2914 • Inter Travel (08) 9409 1080

AUSTRALIA WIDE FREE CALL ift 1800 819 1 56

Page 3

23 May, 2002

Record

Conversion stories tom By Yit T Yang of Bateman parish

After 15 years or so, I decided to come back to God for my children's sake. I searched in the dark for 3 years. come from an ancestral worshipping When I went to Mass, I would get very family in Sarawak. My siblings and I annoyed and embarrassed because my were sent to a Catholic school because children would not sit still. the late Father John Dekker, who was the They were only three and four years old principal of St.Joseph's Primary School, then. Soon I was using them as excuses convinced my mother that learning Eng- not to attend Mass. I couldn't pray. lish was better for our future. I was scared and ashamed to go to recThis is what my mother remembers. onciliation. I kept thinking about all the Then whenIwas in St. Joseph's Secondary things I had done against the Ten ComSchool, the principal, Fr John McClory, mandments. I felt I was unforgivable. helped many of the students enter In 199Z I was kind-of forced to attend a Catholic boarding schools in Britain. Life in the Spirit Seminar. I went so that I went to the Convent of Notre Dame in my husband would stop asking me to. Teignmouth and before I left for universiWhat a huge difference that weekend ty, I was baptized and confirmed. has made to me. I realized that I used to However I got very lazy and slack in my pray to God Our Father of the Old Testafaith after that. When I started dating a ment. Chinese idol worshipper, I even followed I used to talk to Our Mother Mary but his religion. Her Son Jesus was a GCE '0' level Bible

Knowledge subject. The Holy Spirit was In this seminar, I learnt that the Bible is just a white dove or even a small spot of not just a history book, it is God's Word. I fire dancing on heads. The Blessed Sacra- learnt about my righteousness in Christ ment was the white disc in Mass. and lots, lots more. I knew about the Body of Christ but This Bible seminar has stirred up my somehow the truth didn't sink in. thirst for God's Word. Nowadays I enjoy During the seminar,I learnt and realized Mass very much, my Sunday meal with Jesus' unconditional love, His everlasting God, our Father, whatever is or is not going patience with sinners, His full pardon for on around me. repentant sinners and lots more. There is still so much [don't know or That seminar turned my life around. I understand about God's Word. One senknow I have lots to learn of our Catholic tence, I will always remember from the Catechism and our Bible but I am very seminar. `When Jesus forgives you, nosure that Jesus is always with me. He will one, not even yourself, has the right to never leave me. condemn you.' The only possibility of separation is when I leave Him, and I pray for God's grace that it will never happen. Later in 1997, I attended the Bible seminar, Set My People On Fire. I learnt why Jesus had to die to save us, the power of forgiveness and prayer.

Efforts to trace Highgate Communicants Mansion What do you do when you find an old photo with no names on it? Confronted with this dilemma, Joan Maims, made a courageous attempt to put names to the 44 faces of the First Communicants from 1950 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Highgate. 'flying to guess names of class-mates from 52 years ago was difficult enough but some of the little seven-year-olds had come from other schools. The only solution was to plan a reunion. Some of the 20 people contacted were able to attend on Sunday, April 28. After meeting at Sacred Heart, they had lunch at the Queens Tavern. Amid the laughter, they even managed to verify a few more names on the photo! They include Elaine Flanagan. Joan Francesconi, Delphine Truslove, Doreen Pensini, Marie Bell, Gloria Fry. Susan Tonkin, Glenys Nichols, Barbara Giles, Frances Ryan, Kathleen Bourke, Pam Harapeet, Maureen Ferguson. Judith Bucholz, Trevor Little. Terry Aram, Bob Maguire, Robert Horrocks and John Black. Joan would love to hear from you on 9447 0005 if you're in it.

for sale

Bishop Patrick O'Donoghue of Lancaster (UK) announced on Sunday that he plans to sell his $A2.64 million official home and spend much of the proceeds on the poor and Interfaith initiatives. O'Donoghue Bishop described Bishop's House In Lancaster as a beautiful 16room Victorian mansion. He said. "We need a revolution in the church. It's a dangerous word to use. But we need to look at our structures, otherwise we are going to end up as caretakers of mausoleums and museums rather than as caretakers of the poor." Most of the money raised will be spent on projects aimed at easing deprivation and drug problems. Bishop O'Donoghue, 68, will use a small suite of rooms in his cathedral and stay with his priests in presbyteries. The photo of First Communicants at Highgate's Sacred Heart Church in 1950

Disabled and carers unite to demonstrate at Parliament

If Love can be measured in terms of caring for someone unable to care for themselves - in having a compassionate view of life and an enduring effort to Improve the lot of a disabled person - a group at Western Australia's Parliament House last week certainly highlighted that Love. A small group of disabled and their carers from the Coalition for the Disabled seized on the opportunity of Budget Day in the WA Parliament to heighten awareness of the needs of the disabled and to ask for a more compassionate attitude from authorities. The coalition is representative of ACROD, Carers WA, Committed About Secure Accommodation (CASA), DDC, PWD, WAAMH, and is also relevant to the work done by St Vincent de Paul in its role of caring for people with mental illness and Identity WA (formerly Catholic Care). The carers are fearful about the future of their physically and intellectually disabled sons and daughters when they are no longer able to look after them. The demonstrators certainly showed their Love for their children - one, Christine Deery, of Kalamunda, standing for more than two hours with a reassuring arm draped around the shoulders of her intellectually disabled son, Page 4 • .

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Eric Ripper talks with disabled protesters. Aden, who has been the focus of her life for almost 20 years. Another of the carers, Bill Booth, said he knew of a woman who is 90 still caring for her disabled son. The Deputy Premier and Treasurer, Eric Ripper, paused on the steps toi talk to the demonstrators on his way into the chamber to deliver the Budget. Mr Booth reminded the demonstrators Mr Ripper had been the first appointment anywhere in Australia as a Minister for Disability Services under the previous Labor government. And that disability services was

his only responsibility - enabling him to concentrate on the issue and not be distracted by other portfolios. Mr Ripper offered some encouragement to the demonstrators, many of whom he knew by name. A few minutes later he gave the disabled special mention in his Budget. Independent Liberal for Forests MLA for Alfred Cove, Janet Woollard, took part with the demonstrators on the steps of the Parliament. She sat through the Budget presentation in the Legislative Assembly wearing the

blue "Who Cares" t-shirt issued to the protesters. 'IWo days earlier, the Federal Budget, became the target for criticism over changes to the eligibility for disability allowances. Mr Booth and his wife cared for their intellectually disabled daughter for 26 years, until five years ago when she was accommodated in a dedicated villa complex. He said that the complex, built by Homewest, showed what authorities could do to alleviate the problem and the concerns of the carers. "It costs $92,000 to accommodate a number of disabled people in the complex and they have seven-days-a-week attention and care - though not 24 hours a day. "To do the same on an individual basis in the community generally cost around $30,000 to $40,000 for each person. "Homeswest obviously had part of the solution five years ago," Mr Booth said. He added that if Homeswest had not acted when they did, he and his wife would now be disabled themselves. That is the case of Yvonne and Rod Franklyn, who have been asking for accommodation for their daugher Anita since 1996. They are getting older and their own health is failing and they

have warned authoities they will have to deliver their 44-year-old daughter into care in August unless something else can be arranged beforehand. Mrs Franklyn is recovering from serious knee surgery and her husband has serious health problem of his own - and they have exhausted all forms of respite care. They see they have no alternative but to hand her to the chief executive officer of the Disability Service Commission unless their pleas for accommodation for Anita are acted on. Campaign spokeswoman for the coalition, Sue Harris, said both Commonwealth and State Governments acknowledged there was a crisis. She said: "It is the responsibilty of both levels of Government to work together to ensure that the support needed by our community's most vulnerable citizens, and their families, is available. "People with disabilities and their families call on both governments to do the right thing. "No more people should have to die waiting. "No more families should be forced into the agonising position of handing their loved one over tp an uncertain future," she said. She urged the Government to act without further delay.

' 23' May, 2002

Pope has the strength required By Cindy Wooden VATICAN

CITY

(CNS)

Responding to questions in the days before Pope john Paul II's 82nd birthday, several cardinals said they believed the Pope would resign if he could no longer lead the church, but there is no reason for him to do so now. The question once was treated as a purely hypothetical issue, but as the pope weakened, it was considered unseemly or even rude to mention. Just before the Pope's May 18 birthday, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and subdean of the College of the Cardinals, became the highestranking Vatican official to break the taboo and answer a German reporter's question about papal retirement. The reporter from the Munich archdiocesan newspaper asked if the cardinal knew what the Pope thought about resigning. "I have not yet asked him about that, but if he were to see that he absolutely could not (continue), then he certainly would resign," Cardinal Ratzinger responded. "As long as the cost is only suffering (for himself), he will continue," the cardinal said. "We are always impressed by his iron

ity," he said. "I am certain that he capacity for suffering and for would have the courage to do so making the right decisions. He if he reached that point" of know- always has had the courage to ing that, for the good of the make unheard of decisions," the church, a healthier man was cardinal said. needed. Cardinal Silvestrini said, "None Vatican spokesman Joaquin of us can say anything about that Navarro-Valls responded to because the decision belongs to reporters, "The only thing I can him in his total freedom and, he say is to repeat what the Holy does not have to answer to anyFather said yesterday (May 15) at one but God." his general audience. The idea St John of God Health Care was, 'I will remain a Inkling provider of Cathodic Health Cr here as long as Austnalia andbow its care God wants.'" the Christian nines of ST jOHNOF GOD Hospital* Compassion. The Pope said, "I HEALTH CARE Respect lust* and Excelknce. rely also on your spiritual support Murdoch in order to continue faithfully in the ministry the Lord A vacancy exists for a permanent part time Pastoral has entrusted to Associate. This position initially will be for 3 days per week and the hours of duty will be consistent with the me." requirements of the pastoral team which will include some Retired Cardinal weekend and on call duty. The successful applicant will Achille Silvestrini provide professional pastoral services to patients. their families and staff within the Hospital. told the Italian As a key member of the Pastoral Care Team the newspaper La following are required: Repubblica, "The • A strong capacity to promote the Catholic identity and the only thing we can Mission and Values of Sc John of God Health Care. do is trust in the • Completion of, or progression towards. a Clinical Pastoral Education Unit. Pope's moral • A Qualification in Religious studies or the equivalent. strength and his • Well developed counselling skills. consciousness of • Highly developed interpersonal communication skits. his responsibili• Offer a balanced personal. spiritual and professional presence. ties. • Experience in Pastoral Ministry. • A willingness to undertake appropriate professional "The pope has an development in this specialised hospital ministry. extraordinary For further information, please contact Human Resources l f

Assistants help Pope John Paul II as he celebrates a Mass of canonization for five new saints in St. Peter's Square May 19. CAS priotO Dy AleS_Sia Giuliar;

will." Knowing that Cardinal Ratzinger usually meets with the Pope at least once a week, the reporter asked about the Pope's health and stamina. "It changes because he is often easily overwhelmed by work and then the next day, he is understandably tired," the cardinal said. "But it is not true that he is no longer able to rule. He has become quieter; he talks less. But he listens very carefully and asks questions from which one sees how alert he is. He delegates

many of the day-to-day tasks, but he still looks after the important things himself," he said. "If sometimes, on some days, he can do less, on the next he is again full of energy and fresh and holds up well," Cardinal Ratzinger said. Honduran Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga of Tegucigalpa was asked by reporters May 16 if he thought there might come a time when the Pope would need to resign. "I think John Paul II also thinks this and feels a great responsibil-

Pastoral Associate

Australian wins US award for research An Australian academic has been named the 2001 Novak Award winner for a research paper assessing the impact of globalisation on different cultures. Dr Michael Casey, a permanent fellow In sociology and politics at the John Paul IIInstitute in Melbourne and private secretary to the Archbishop of Sydney, Dr George Pell, will present his research 'Preliminary Reflections on GlobalisaHon and Religion after September 11.' and receive the $US10,000 award in Washington next September. The Novak Award is an annual award of the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty, a US-based Institute that seeks to promote a free and virtuous society characterised by individual liberty and sustained by religious principles. The Award, named in honour of conreligious philosopher temporary Michael Novak, recognises outstanding new research on the interrelation of religion and liberty. Dr Casey's paper surveys the impact of globalisation and considers the approach taken to it by Pope John Paul H, who draws particular attention to its effects on different cultures. Building on this, Dr Casey analyses the Islamic world's response to globalising trends,

and offers suggestions as to how globalisation might be reconsidered. 'Before the attacks on the World 'nude Centre last year it was assumed that globalisation would make the world safe for the secular values of the West,' Dr Casey said. 'While the benefits of globalisation are considerable, September 11 showed us that they are not going to be accepted on these terms. 'People outside the West want prosperity and freedom, but they don't necessarily want secularisation. This puts an urgent focus on the whole question of religion and globalisation. and the need to find a new way forward.' Dr Casey said he was delighted to receive the Novak Award. 'Both Michael Novak and the Acton Institute have made tremendous contributions to the way Christians think about politics, economics and society, and especially to our understanding of the role religion can play in a democracy.' he said. 'It's a privilege to be associated with them, and also to have

an opportunity in this small way to help promote the social teaching of the Church.'

on (08) 9366 1019. Information kits are available from our 24 hour 'hotline service on (08) 931 1 4 1 I I .

Written applications addressing the selection criteria should be forwarded with Curriculum Vitae and the names of two professional referees by Wednesday, 12 June 2002, to: Manager Human Resources, St John Of God Health Care Murdoch, 100 Murdoch Drive, MURDOCH WA 6150.

Email: hrmurdoch@sjog.org.au

For more information on this position please visit:

www.em •I• ment.com.au

"I Believe"—A Little Catholic Catechism

his beautifully illustrated book is an introduction to the basics of the Catholic Faith and is 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. Over 1.3 Inspiring illustrations give this million copies catechism an added dimension distributed to help convey the spirit of the world wide Gospel along with its message.

The catechism is 196pp and measures 210nun by 148mm. The first part of the book is based upon the Apostles Creed. Each article of the Creed is explained in a separate chapter and illustrated with examples from the Bible. The second part is devoted to the Sacraments, the life of Jesus and an explanation of the Lord's Prayer. The book is based on the universal Catechism and has been approved by the Catholic Church. A lovely gift idea and every copy you buy enables us to send more copies overseas to those who are hungry for the Word of God."

BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED THROUGHOUT

Just S5.00 a copy

New centre for research in religious education The Catholic Institute of WA is emphases for research in the area. proud to announce the formation of The centre is about to embark on a the John Prendiville Centre for joint research initiative with the AusResearch in Religious Education. tralian Catholic University in SydThe naming of the research centre ney. acknowledges the contribution to The Search for Meaning and IdenCatholic education of Father John tity program consists of a series of Prendiville SJ, foundation Director related research projects concerned of the Catholic Institute. Fr Pren- with the nature, function and comdiville recently retired after 25 years munication of meaning and identityof work in teacher formation in WA. together with an exploration of The Research Centre will foster implications for Religious Education and undertake research in areas and Church ministry. associated with religious and The program is a systematic Catholic education. research response to the Australian As part of the work of the Catholic Catholic Bishops Consultation with Institute, the research centre will Youth which concluded in 1997. It work closely with the Catholic Edu- showed that a search for meaning cation Commission and Office, as and identity was one of the fundawell as the University of Notre mental concerns of contemporary Dame, in determining priorities and Catholic youth.

An overwhelming success in Australia with the first release of 9,000 copies selling out in less than three months

7.)

Order Form: "I Believe" - A Little Catholic Catechism Send to: Aid to the Church in Need, PO Box 6245 Blacktown DC NSW 2148

Phone/Fax No: (02) 9679-1929 E-mail: info@ aidtochurch.org Web: ww‘i.aidtochurch.org Please send me: Cheque/money order enclosed Payment method: Amount Number OR Please debit my credit card ^

"I Believe- *(A Little Catholic Cathechism) ($5) Plus Postage and Handling (see table) Charity donation (optional) Total enclosed

Bankcard

* Limit 6 copies per order No GST applies as the Signature Catechism is available at 50% below its market value

Visa

Mastercard

Exp Date

BLOCK LETTERS PLEASE

Postage and Handling table $2.00 I Catechism $5.00 2-6 Catechisms AID TO THE CHURCH IN NEED

Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms/Rev Address

Postcode a Catholic charity dependent on the Holy See, providinz pastoral relief to needy and oppressed Churches

• ..,• Page 5

Opinion

Page 6

Reflection

e're all familiar with the mean- own virtue and worthiness. But would God one of the weakest of His disciples. Peter ing of betrayal, these days. In agree with that? had denied Jesus, not once but three times fact, it's becoming a growing Much more likely, He would find a gen- in a single night, the night of the agony in industry. An industry called matrimonial tle way - or even, perhaps, a not-so-gentle the garden. way - of pointing out to us that our success surveillance. Of course, we tend to excuse St Peter It consists of private detectives who are in living faithfully for Him and those we're when we think of the gospel story. That's hired by suspicious women and men to married to is actually a sign of grace. because he "redeemed" himself, in a way, To put it another way, we don't do much later on, by suffering a martyr's death on snoop out whether or not their married good ourselves - it's mainly Him, working behalf of the Church. partners are sleeping around. But still, that is being wise after the event Just look at the dozens of surveillance In us. This might sound like a technical entries in the yellow pages of a city phone theology point - but it's actually just about On the night that Jesus was betrayed, noone - above all, Peter directory if you want to see how extensive the most important ". • .through grace, even the knew fact we will ever learn what was going this modern industry is. weakest of vessels can be to happen in the Of course, reading the phone book does- about ourselves. transformed into a powerful future. Morally speaking, n't tell us about the pain and destruction when left to ourselves agent for God in human affairs. All he knew was that caused by all these acts of treachery we humans are weak Jesus was in trouble. If Faithful marriages are one against a marital partner. Marriages the tough get going example of that..." destroyed, families broken up, lifelong vessels. This goes for the baptised as much when the going gets hopes and dreams smashed forever... Yes, betrayal is a deadly serious matter. as for the non-baptised. Yet through grace, tough, then Peter showed that night - years even the weakest of vessels can be trans- before his eventual heroic martyrdom And a very contemporary one, too. formed into a powerful agent for God in that when left to his own devices, he was, That matters to Catholics today because human affairs. like the rest of us, a bit of a wimp. betrayal is still a problem each of us has Faithful marriages are one example of Of course, Peter wasn't the only weak to struggle with. If the divorce and sepa- that - and so is the Church on earth. link to have ever played a role in the ration rate really is lower for Catholics According to the gospels, Jesus chose as Church. And without presuming to speak than non-Catholics, then we might be "the rock" on which to build His Church for the Almighty. I think that's the way God tempted to see that fact as a sign of our

intended it to be. He knew from the start there would be great saints - and Peter would become one of the greatest. But he also knew from the beginning that members of his body, the Church, would sometimes betray him. They would betray the innocent, and they would betray the good. None of this lessens the shock of betrayal, or minimises the damage when it's done. But to any Catholic worried by scandals confronting the Church today, there is strong encouragement to be found within the Church's scriptural roots. Particularly, those passages like John 18: 15-2Z Matthew 16:23 and John 21:22. These passages show St Peter - the greatest - at his very weakest. Why's that encouraging to us? Because it reminds us that the glory of the church God founded was never intended to be its human members. It is Jesus himself, working through that human chain. As He did it yesterday, so He can do it today.

TO JESUS THROUGH MARY

it column of 'Marian devotion

Riadilif A Layman's meditations

oday is Trinity Sunday, a Solemnity which celebrates one of the principal mysteries of our faith, the Blessed Trin-

ity. This mystery teaches us that there are Three Divine Persons in one God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The Three Divine Persons possess the divine nature in its totality. God the Son proceeds from the Father by way of knowledge, while God the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son by way of love, the fruit of the mutual love of Father and Son. When teaching the Irish about the Trinity, St Patrick showed them the shamrock. explaining that just as there are three leaves In the one plant, so in God, there are three Persons in the one divine nature. The first reading (Exodus 34:4-6, 8-9) describes Moses's second meeting with God on Mount Sinai. God had told him to come there again so that he would rewrite the ten commandments on two new tablets of stone. The Lord passed before him and proclaimed: "Lord, Lord, a God of tenderness and compassion, slow to anger, rich in kindness and faithfulness." Fr Kevin O'Sullivan OFM writes in The Sunday Readings Cycle A: "The mystery of the Blessed Trinity - three persons in one God was not revealed to the Jews of the Old Testament. "Surrounded as they were by nations that practiced polytheism (many Gods) there would be a danger that the Jews would see three Gods in the Trinity - it would look like polytheism to them. He made them his Chosen People, through whom he would eventually send his divine Son and the Holy Spirit to give man - the whole chosen human race - the possibility and the means of reaching the destination he had planned for them from all eternity. The covenant made by Yahweh with Moses on Mount Sinai was the preparation for the revelation of the dogma of the Blessed 'Dinity and its relationship with our salvation." Fr O'Sullivan also says: "One simple resolution on this great feast day would be to promise to make the sign of the cross as an act of dedication and thanksgiving to the Loving Father, t Page 6

by Peter Dwan Son and Holy Spirit, who have already done and are daily continuing to do so much in order to bring us to heaven." The second reading (2 Corinthians 13: 1113) is the conclusion of St Paul's second epistle to the Corinthians. The letter was written during his third missionary journey 53-58, and probably from Ephesus where he was from 54-57 Paul had much advice and correction to give them and he also praises them. In these last verses he repeats his appeal for unity and fraternal charity and wishes the blessing of the Holy Trinity upon them in words which should be familiar to us from the priest's greeting at Mass: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." The gospel (John 3:16-18) Is part of a conversation which Our Lord had with Nicodemus, who was a wealthy Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, the supreme ecclesiastical court of the Jews. He had evidently seen or heard of some of Christ's miracles and wanted to learn more about him. Nicodemus came to Jesus at night for fear of his fellow Pharisees. The reading says: "Jesus said to Nicodemus, 'God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not be lost but may have eternal life'." Fr O'Sullivan comments again: "Although the Holy Spirit is not mentioned in this text from St John's gospel, the text is included in the readings for the feast of the Blessed because two of the persons are mentioned. They are clearly distinguished one from the other, yet both are the one God. God the Father sent God into this world (in human nature) in order to bring eternal life within the reach of all men." While we cannot understand the mystery of the Blessed 'ninny, the Three Persons in the Trinity dwell within our souls by grace. May we show our gratitude and, by our missionary efforts, work to bring this great blessing to others.

nly God is eternal. For that reason before anything existed there was only God in the dynamism of that love which is innate to the three persons united in one divine nature. Then creation, the angels, the cosmos and mankind, saw this love express itself externally, giving life to creatures who were only beautiful and good, creatures in whom the Creator took great pleasure. But the most beautiful gift, which constitutes the grandeur of the superior creatures, intelligence and freedom, Induced first one part of the angels and then, through their instigation, our first parents to pride and rebellion. Thus sin entered the world along with evil, suffering, death and hell when God had created it all for eternal happiness. Satan's hatred for God brought him and brings him to seduce human beings to rebellion and sin. But against the consequences of original sin, the infinite mercy of God foretells salvation. He will send his own Son, who will be our redeemer. He will be the son of a woman. This woman, immediately announced, is placed by God himself as the enemy of Satan. It is the first annunciation regarding Mary at the dawn of human life. Here is the text of the pmtogospel, or first annunciation of the redemption: "I will place enmity between you and the woman (It is God himself who is creating this irreconcilable rivalry), between your seed and her seed; this one [that is, the son of that woman] will strike at your head and you will strike at his heel" (Gn 3:15). Mary is already foretold as a sign of salvation and as an enemy of Satan. It is a text whose true significance will become better understood over time. We have used a translation which faithfully reproduces the Hebrew text. The Greek translation, called the Septuagint, uses a masculine pronoun which is a precise reference to the Messiah: "He will strike at your head." The Latin translation of St Jerome, known as the Vulgate, though, translated it with a feminine pronoun: "She will strike at your head," favouring an Interpretation that is wholly Marian, an interpretation that was preferred by most of the ancient Fathers of the

A mosaic copy of Francesco Romanelli's 17th-century painting of Mary climbing the steps of the temple.

Church, from Irenaeus on. It is clear that the one who conquers Satan is Jesus. The action of Mary is always and only dependent on that of her son. With precision the Second Vatican Council correctly states: "[The Virgin Mary] devoted herself totally, as a handmaid of the Lord, to the person and work of her son, under and with him, serving the mystery of redemption" (LG 56). For this reason all the images which show Mary in the act of crushing the head of the serpent, so long as this gesture is seen as cooperation in the work of her son come to destroy the works of Satan, are legitimate. At the end of human history we see a repetition of the same scene. The woman reappears as a sign of salvation and reappears in the posture of one in combat against Satan. Here is the text: "A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and on her head a crown of twelve stars.... Then another sign appeared in the sky; it was a huge red dragon, with seven heads and ten horns... the ancient serpent who is called the Devil and Satan, who deceived the whole world" (Rv 12:1ff.). From The Gospel of

Mary - a month with HE the Mother of God by GOSPEL Fr Gabriel Amorth SSP, OF St Paul Publications, RRP MARY $23.50

Lord,Iam not worthy ...

ord, I am not worthy to receive you. Say but the word and my soul shall be healed: These are the words we all say, with varying degrees of awareness, before receiving Communion. They come from a faith-filled Roman centurion who wanted Jesus to heal his dying servant and who, despite his own exalted position in his community, was aware of his position relative to the power he knew Jesus possessed. It prompted him to tell Jesus that he was not worthy to have him enter his home and asked that he simply heal his servant from afar. Jesus did. He also remarked that he had not seen such faith in Israel. These pre-Communion words take on added significance in relation to last weekend's events in Sydney and Melbourne when sash-wearing homosexual activists were refused Communion by Archbishops Pell and Hart. They are equally significant in relation to heterosexual people who insist on their "right" to go to Communion while living in various adulterous states, and to non-Catholic people who know the Church does not invite them to Communion but who go anyway. Most of us can give at least intellectual assent to the words "I am not worthy to receive you"even if we have difficulty embracing them in our hearts. At least in this respect, we are all on the same footing. The real challenge lies in the words "Say but the word -." Are we waiting for a "new' word from Jesus. or are we acknowledging that the word which heals has already been expressed? The Centurion knew that Jesus had already healed and he asked him to

The Record

PO Box 75, Leederville, WA 6902 Tel: (08) 9227 7080, Fax: (08) 9227 7087 cathrec@iinet.net.au express a specific word for his servant, a as if I had never done them. Instead, like repetition of the authority that he had oil upon my troubled soul, He soothed already acknowledged. and calmed me in the midst of my wrongWe who come after the Crucifixion, the doing....Iunderstood, suddenly and irrevResurrection, and the institution of the ocably, in His eyes there are no "bad Eucharist, followed by the arrival of the people" - only His children who have been Holy Spirit, are in a somewhat different deceived about who they are." position. We know his healing word and From this point on, Morrison ended his the question is not whether he will say it sexual activity (but not his friendship) with but whether we will accept it. the man with whom he had been sharing The problem for the rainbow sash house and bed and set out on a journey brigade (and others, and all of us to some that led him eventually to the Catholic degree) is that they want the Word to Church and to write movingly about his change the word. They hope that if He gratitude to the Church for refusing to (through His Church) will say the word patronise homosexuals with a watered they want, they will be healed, but they down Gospel or confront them with irrewould not be and therefore He (and His deemable hostility. Church) will not say it. The result is disMorrison is not alone in his experience. appointment, frustration, bitterness and There are a great many others who have on-going campaigns for what cannot heal. found that being sexually active is not the The other side of the equation, accep- effective response to same-sex attraction. tance of the healing word has been beau- For the most part, they are not particulartifully expressed by former homosexual ly visible. They have no need to be activist David Morrison in his book because they have no need to campaign "Beyond Gay". He describes how, alone to get society, the Church and the Word one day, he finally knelt and said the only Himself to change. prayer he could offer honestly: "Lord, I One unfortunate side effect of this natdon't even know if you exist, but if you do, ural silence is that it leaves the way clear I sure need you in my life: for homosexual activists to dominate the Jesus came. And Morrison goes on to scene and persuade the media and vapid describe the experience in these words: Governments like our own that homosex"It's.not that Jesus negated my sins. It's ual activity is natural, that the younger the not that He declared them null and void age that boys are led into it the better, and

Biological Response

ArouncJ the ta(7(e

o people such as I who are slow readers and caught up in many tasks, reading is more for information than pleasure. In this respect some of the articles included in the Record of 9th May, 2002. particularly the good news stories of the conversion of Jeremiah Loo on page 6 and the article "The Job of Finding Miracles" which included the story of Sandra Charles, a Protestant who declined in vitro fertilization and conceived after a visit to Lourdes, were two very interesting articles. But what prompts me to send this note is more because of your editorial. From it I learnt of the belief held by Bishop Farran and others. viz "That conception begins at day 14 when a primitive streak emerges". Then you went on to enlighten me that male and female characteristics exist before day 14. It is good to see you take on a biological argument with a biological response. I hope we see more such inclusions. The same Record had a small article highlighting the growth of Religious Websites. This prompted me to visit the FAQ section of EWTN's Website (www.evytn. com/expert/answers/abortiol.htm) from which I have extracted the following: The scientific evidence is clear, a biologically distinct human individual is present from the moment of conception. This is irrefutable. The conceptus is certainly no blob of the mother's tissue. In fact, it is in charge, releasing a chemical from its cells (human corionic gonadotrophin) that shuts down menstruation and begins the effects of pregnancy in the mother." Jim Porter Melville

Letters to the editor

that the entire population ought to be forced, if necessary, into the distorted belief that homosexual activity is the social and moral equivalent of marriage. One of the saddest things about the recent debates on homosexual law reform in our Parliament was that the Government paid no attention to an alternative view of homosexuality it gave no account of the destruction associated with the activists' view of life, and it has virtually condemned young and future people with same-sex attraction to the belief that they are slaves to their sexual urges. Morrison and many others like him have demonstrated that there is a path to freedom, and since the difference between the two views is truly a matter of life and death it is good that the Church stands on the path of life. Living with same-sex attraction is a cross that most of us are not called upon to bear and it is a vital responsibility for each of us to hear the word about judgement and live by it. It is also important for each of us to approach the Eucharist aware that the healing word has been spoken and awaits our acceptance. It includes Jesus giving the Church, through Peter, the keys of the kingdom of heaven and his telling the Apostles (and their successors) that he who hears you hears me, and he who ignores you ignores me. The refusal to hear these words is the cause of many modern problems. • The opinions expressed in this editorial, and any other Record editorial, are not necessarily those of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Perth.

us by.Where is the underlying Christian message in the popular TV programs, the songs, the pop stars too? As far as the mountains of magazines, newspapers and so on are concerned - little or nothing shines through. The messages are rare as hen's teeth. Where have the products of the (our) education gone? It seems mainly to commerce. Ruth Cracknell deserves the plaudits, her spirit lives on. Peter Bertola Esperance

Apathy disappointing Words of Wisdom: Malcolm Muggeridge Page 10 moments. In addition to continue praying for the conversion of pastors such as Peter Carnley, who blindly lead their flock astray, I will reserve a special place for the continued public witness given so eloquently by Mr Rosengren. It is faith filled men such as you who are heeding the Holy Fathers' call to 'put out into the deep'. Praise the Lord! Philip Haydon Woodlands

Promoting women

coincidence. Research over the past few decades has shown consistently that viewers of this type of material are more likely to act out what they have seen, even after other factors are eliminatedAdults do not have the right to do things which may put others at risk I congratulate the Film Classification Board for its ban of Baise-Moi. It upheld the film guidelines which are there for our protection. Lindsay Dent Campbeiltown, South Australia

he WA Catholic Social Justice Council With good reason T supports the Commission for Auswas set up Women which Catholic tralian hose who are upset about the ban on by the Conference of Australian Catholic TBaise-Moi should pause to think why Bishops. the official film guidelines prohibit films

The Commission seeks to promote the participation of women in the Catholic Church in Australia. There are some women like Mrs C V Phillips (Record May 16) who do not see the need for such a Commission but there are many other women who welcome the opportunity to assist in a deeper understanding of the many gifts which women can contribute more fully to the life of the Church. The Commission's concern for Indigenous women is particularly relevant as we approach National Reconciliation ow! I have just read the article by Week commencing with Sorry Day on May Peter Rosengren (I say,Isay...) in The 26. We recommend that all women conRecord of May 16. I have always been tribute their personal experiences to this Impressed by the intelligent way Mr Rosen- ongoing dialogue. gren illuminates the truth concerning the sanctity of human life, especially the most Mrs IC Macfarlane, Chair, WA Catholic Social Justice Council innocent and unprotected. But this article blew my socks off. Having been present at the birth of all nine of my o:ert Steinhaeuser, Christopher Worchildren I empathise with the feelings of n, Wade Frankum, Martin Bryant and awe and overwhelming joy at beholding the miracle of a new born baby. Sadly, the Ted Bundy had two things in common. enormous sin involved in wanting to kill They were all fond of extremely viosuch an innocent one has also pierced my lent/pornographic material, and they all heart in reflecting back upon such murdered many people. This is no mere

Prayers for Primate

Censors got it right

earEditor and Staff of The Record. I DD wish to extend a commendation for a well presented, informative Catholic news-

paper. But how disappointing to see the apathy from our so called 'practising Catholics' who rarely buy a copy, or worse still refuse a free copy! I am referring to the recent offer of the free Easter edition. It was no doubt a very generous offer but in my estimation a waste of resources.Iwill share my personal experience: At the conclusion of the Easter Mass,Iwas one of three who stood outside the church door, personally offering people a copy of the free Record. It was surprising to witness the number of people refusing the offer with ample copies available after the last Mass. If I had to instead offer a dollar (the cost of the paper) to the Mass attendees, I am sure I would have exhausted my supplies in no time! Sadly, materialism has hit us in a big way! How true in Our Lord's own words Matt.6 v24 "You cannot serve both God and money" or Matt.7 v6" Do not throw your pearls in front of pigsthey will only trample them underfoot" Deirdre Lyra (Mrs) Forrestfield

with the combination of explicit sex and violence, as well as films with child pornography. Many studies have been done which show that people who view these images are more likely to commit sexual assaults and other violent crimes. Adults are not allowed to do anything they like.I cannot even design a house the way Ilike -I have to follow all the rules of the local council building code. The German government is now looking I t's urgent that a Royal Commission on at tightening its guidelines for films and Paedophilia be held in Australia: 1) computer games, following the discovery Because it's a massive and tragic problem of many very violent films and games in to its victims and their families. 2) Because the flat of the Erfurt gunman who mur- the media, by exploiting sex-related sensadered 16 and wounded 10 others on 26 tionalism as a money-spinner, make it hard April ("The Australian", 2 May 2002, p10.) to get the facts into perspective. 3) Because Sue Peckover the obsession of some sections of the media Morphettvale, South Australia to discredit the Church further distorts perspective. 4) Because political parties and lobbies, while posturing as seekers of children's welfare, meanwhile campaign for praise of indeed flood, numerous, he lower ages of consent at which adults may released by the death of Ruth Cracklegally involve those aged 16 or less in sexChristian nell illustrates a theme, which churches have largely ignored: the over- ual activities. whelming power of art projected by today's Arnold Jago 24 hour a day media has seemingly passed Mildura

Royal Commission

Missed opportunity

,Par 7

r et

Features

an adventure joins , forges a bond A

Teachers, Jo Neagle and Steve Biggs in a muddy Nairobi slum street.

A local soccer team was supplied boots from Perth donations.

Ewan Dickson and Jenna Wooftarton make instant friends.

Original approach: a busker uses a salt cellar as a microphone. Page 8

Abby Johansen at Sister Mary's rescue centre for the children.

coloured pencil - an illustrated book - a pair of gym boots are all things Australian school children might consider mundane, but they are treasures to the children eking out a desperate existence in the slums in Nairobi. Yet despite the great poverty and the battle to survive, there is a pervading air of happiness and fun among the Kenyan children. These were the things that impacted most on a party of Western Australian teenagers who visited the area in April and early May. The party of seven students, two teachers and a nun from the Mandurah Catholic College have returned from a 23-day visit working with a Danish religious order and Mercy Sisters in Kenya, in east Africa. The visit was two years in the planning, and was initially arranged for last year but had to be postponed after the September 11 terror attacks on New York and Washington. Students on the trip were Adam Rizzi. 16. of Country Road, Jenna Wooltarton. 16, of Falcon. Matthew Snowden. 16, of Mandurah, Abby Johansen. 16, of Mandurah. Hialeah Fearnhead. 16, of Parlklands, Ashlee Melvey. 16. of Falcon - all of Year 12 at the college - and Ewan Dickson, 18, of Country Road. who was in Year 12 and who accepted as a participant when the trip was initially arranged last year. Two teachers, Mrs Jo Neagle and Steve Biggs, and Sister Katherine Kettle, the college's pastoral officer accompanied the group. For a group accustomed to some of the simple luxuries of Australian life, there were some rude awakenings. Even the flight to Nairobi turned into something of an adventure. Travelling with Air Mauritius, there were no direct flights, and it meant transiting for four days in Mauritius en-route. "We thought we were seeing real poverty on Mauritius," Adam Rizzi said. "We stayed on the southern end of the island, away from the tourist resorts. "But it was a real awakening once we got to Nairobi. "The poverty there is far worse - I don't know how people survive," he said. Apart from the poverty apparent in the streets - there next shock was in their accommodation. The students stayed with a host family - a middle-class family with the head

Sister Mary devotes her life to help the children

Sister Mary Kileen, the Mercy nun who hosted the visting Mandurah students and their teachers, is one of the identities of Nairobi -among the government officials as well as among the poor. She has spent 26 years in Kenya, sharing her gifts with those who find themselves caught in the pertpetuating cycle of poverty, caused by government inaction. Most of her time there has been involved in education, and in more recent years, her focus has been on eliminating the obstacles that prevent children and young adults reaching their potential. While the best of us would be struggling to meet the pace of life in Kenya, Sister Mary has a formidable level of energy, that is comparable to her generosity and passion for the people she serves. Attempting to tackle the enormous problems of the slums is a horrendous task for any multi-disciplinary team. However in collaboration with the Danish Justice groups, Sister Mary has managed to plant a seed of hope among the people. She has established seven branches of Mukuru - an organistion operating two primary schools, a promotional centre, a boys home and a girls' home, and a rescue group. In all they involve 7000 people and the mission and purpose of the exercise gives testimony to the calibre of this Mercy woman. She is a woman full of wonderful stories that would keep any dinner party going to the early hours of the morning. She is willing to lend a hand to and share her unique Irish humour with anyone who cares to listen. Apart from being a force to be reckoned with - for any unsuspecting government official who might cross her path or her purpose - she is a gentle caring woman with much to offer. The Mandurah students returned feeling they had been very blessed to have had the opportunity to meet her and work with her.

of the household operating a small tion you realise that these street business in a general store. They hardened children - most suffering had to squash into two small bed- from HIV - living in the slums where rooms, and had a common room the strong rule and some dress in measuring 3m by 4m. rags, are really children at heart. There were no hot showers or Glum surroundings and a glum flushing toilets or other simple lux- lifestyle seemed to make little difuries Australians take for granted. ference to the happy, smiling faces Instead it was buckets of cold water, and cheery greetings for the Mannon-flush toilets and instead of durah students. paved driveways, boots became Jenna Wooltarton and Abby clogged with mud in the first few Johansen said their standard greetsteps out of the door. ing is "How are you? How are you?" However, the students said these which they seemed to repeat" timethings paled into insignifcance and-again, until we realised there is when they entered the first of a a customary response - fine! number of workplace centres. "They would just keep repeating The Mary Immaculate drop-in the greeting until they got the centre for street boys was a "touch- response they expected." ing experience," they said. Matthew Snowden said: "The Boys aged seven to 16 sit in a dark, image of a young child clutching a corrugated school room. A boy petrol-soaked rag - which seemed draws an Australian animal stencil to symbolise their security - left us and colours it with such concentra- with a disturbed feeling of futility for that child." There are three major slums in the centre of Nairobi, housing twothirds of the three million population. The figures increase annually as more rural people migrate to the city in the hope of finding work There is no unemployment benefit or welfare assistance of any kind. Children become victimised as their parents send them out to steal, beg or into prostitution.The Mandurah teenagers said a walk through the slums with Sister Mary, the Mercy nun who was their host, could only be described as heartbreaking. "As we walk through the black muddy walkways, built up in 20cms of decomposing rubbish, mixed with sewage and the smell of putrefying rotten food, we realise how Ewan Dickson presents a cheque to Sister Mary from donations raised in WA. Mt impverished these people really are," Hialeah Fearnhead - who has students are looking for more donations of books and colouring pencils.

previously visited the Philippines said. "After rain, this place is swimming in disease and misery." "But we were touched by the people who welcomed us with their smiles," Ashleee Melvey said. Visits to a baby centre and an orphanage were more rude awakenings. Jenna VVooltarton said many mothers just abandon their babies among the rubbish in the streets. "The lucky ones are left on the doorstep of the orphanages. "Families in Europe will pay up to $1800 to adopt the children - some adopt as many as five of six." The students wrote in a report for the school that working with the children in the orphanages was hard, because they had to remain mindful to avoid raising past memories of lost family and friends. They wrote about "seeing activites that seemed so basic to us meaning so much to them, and seeing how much they enjoyed themselves made us forget for a moment that one out of three have HIV and don't have any relatives who will care for them because of either their drug addiction, prostitution or alcoholism." They continued: "when you think of a baby home, you think of love, health and happiness. "That's what we thought when we were entering the New Life Centre. "As we met the lady in charge, she told us the heartbreaking news such as most of these babies were suffering from HIV and they were either brought by the police or simply found on the front door step - sometimes with the umbilical cord still attached. "We all received a baby each and we were able to feed and nurture them. "We got so caught up in the fun we

Hialeah Fearnhead gets up close and personal with some of the local children in the Nairobi slum district were having that we didn't think of HIV until a nurse told us the little baby she was nursing had AIDS, and there was nothing to do but sit - and watch - and wait." The students were told that among the survivors, 340 rlhurches in Africa are among another range of things vastly different from the Australian experibabies out of 369 had been successfully adopted into Kenyan and Euro- ence. The Mandurah students attended two - one in pean families in eight years. But there an area close to their billet, and the other in the slum are still many thousands of babies a districts. The first Mass was held in a youth centre, used since year that die - are found in long-drop the church had been burnt down in a revenge attack toilets - on official tips and wayside by a group of Muslims, aggrieved by an injustice felt rubbish dumps - or simply left after one of their women had been mistreated. behind in hospital. "The walk to the gates of the centre sparked great Ewan Dickson reported another smiles among the local people and much talk in striking aspect of life was the age dif- Swahili - we could only assume about us," the stuference. dents wrote in their report. "Students start school much later "We were struck by the number of people in their and it is common for someone in their Sunday best - despite the poverty around us. final year to be about 21 or 22. "We were crammed into pews as the music started "They are also much smaller in and everyone stood to clap in time with the orchestra of drums, guitars. organs and the heavenly sound of stature, and look a lot younger."

Mass presented a challenge the choir with its lovely African themes. "The following week we attended Mass in the slums - walking in mud to get to the church. "It was smaller - in a tin shed - and even though it was in the slums, they still got dressed up. "The Mass was said in Swahili - and we could only anticipate what was going on." the students wrote. One piece of light relief from the serious aspects of the trip was a safari to view some of the African wildlife. They managed to see most types of wildlife, and had a "harrowing" experience when a baboon family tried to get too close to Hialeah. But they all agreed the trip was exciting, and are eagerly anticipating a possible exchange arrangement. A teacher in Nairobi is keen to bring a choir, and all of the students said they may have Kenyan children come to stay with their families in Mandurah.

The Mandurah students work with Kenyan children in a school classroom. Page 9

23 May, 2002

Record III

Bishops call on Howard to m- reveal who will benefit Human Life Stem cells

with Tony Evans

alcolm Muggeridge (1903-1990) was a brilliant, perceptive, ruthless critic of contemporary life and politics. Famous as a journalist and writer he became. 40 years ago, even more celebrated world-wide as a television personality. Always entertaining on television he exposed the pomposity and superficial fantasies of fashionable, intellectual life. Like Chesterton (whom he admired) Muggeridge leaned towards the Church for many years before finally becoming a Catholic in 1982. His religious convictions seem to have received a major thrust when he made his television documentary film on Lourdes in 1965. Long before the present-day abortion debates. Muggeridge clearly understood and respected Catholic teaching on the sanctity of human life. "Sometimes one sees the sick and the dying with a certain disquiet and even distaste, as extras brought off and on the stage in a macabre way. At other times their cheerful fortitude seems a particular glory, and puts to shame one's own complaining about ills so incomparably less exacting. The question inevitably poses itself as to whether these maimed, stunted lives should be protracted. and. in the case of congenital defects, ever begun. Can these poor souls, one asks oneself, sometimes in outward appearance barely human, really wish to go on living? The scientific answer. of course, is emphatically no. "In a broiler house there is no place for such specimens. But then our world is not a broiler house, though alas, as we have seen, it can easily be made one. if the Christian view is correct, and mankind is a family with a Father in Heaven who can't see even a sparrow fall to the ground without concern, then these twisted, tangled bodies have as rightful a place in the human family as any others, even though they can scarcely utter their insistence that life has been to them a precious gift and they duly offer thanks to their Maker for it. "I, as it happens, believe them more readily than I do the pronouncements of experts on population and eugenics. It can be argued, it seems to me, that no lives are worth living, or, that all lives are worth living, but not that some lives are worth living and others not." Page 10

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has sent a letter to Prime Minister John Howard endorsing the ban on cloning but expressing deep concerns with the decision to allow destructive research on embryos. The letter to the Prime Minister comes in the light of private consultations to be held next week by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to discuss draft legislation implementing the April decision of COAG to ban cloning but to allow harvesting of stem cells from frozen embryos. The bishops letter states "We urge you to make available to all members of the Australian public in general and the Members of Parliament in particular all the information necessary to aid Informed decision making." In particular, published, referred work by Australian embryonic stem cell researchers, apparently used in reaching the COAG decision, be provided to the public, and that the extensive and grow-

embryo-destroying research. Profit of this type easily commercialises human life and turns it into a commodity." "Other researchers, however, say that there are sufficient stem cell lines for all research needs. "It is also a matter of deep concern that the decision of the Prime Minister, supported and liberalised by COAG, proposes to cross a line that's never been crossed in Australia before. "The COAG decision to exploit and in the process knowingly to hasten the demise of human embryos, constitutes a rupture of the fundamental principle that the inherent dignity of every human being is inviolable." "Australian society faces unprecedented moral, ethical and Prime Minister John Howard arrives to speak at at Notre Dame University in legal questions concerning the in Fremantle last year. application of processes boring list of research findings by create more ES cell lines. "There rowed from animal bio-technoloadult stem cell researchers also appears to have been little reflec- gy to the human race. "We are entering unchartered be made public. tion on the extremely close link The Bishops point out the regu- between the agitation to harvest territory and it is important that larly changing position of certain stem cells from human embryos our moral compasses are set corembryonic stem cell scientists and the significant financial gains, redly" the Bishops state. who Initially indicated there were via drug patents and other such "We believe that the use of one sufficient embryonic stem cell matters to be made by person for the benefit of another lines but now suggest that access researchers and their corporate is a violation of the foundations of to frozen embryos is needed to share holders from human a democratic society."

Mission is for everyone, not the few: Pope Evangelisation Mission and laity

VATICAN CITY, MAY 16. 2002 (Zenitorg).-john Paul II asserted that the mission is not something restricted to a few: all Catholics must become missionaries. The Holy Father expressed his conviction in a hand-delivered message to the participants in the annual General Assembly of the Pontifical Missionary Works. being held from May 16 to 24. The Assembly has gathered 113 national directors representing 1.50 countries worldwide into the Vatican. "It is necessary that, in the different levels of responsibility, everyone in the Church be educated to cooperate together in the very mission of Christ," the Pontiff said in his message. This vocation, the Holy Father stated, "conserves all its validity: it represents the paradigm of the missionary commitment of the Church, which always has need of radical and total dedication, of a new and intrepid impulse." John Paul II made it clear that "the missionary activity can never be reduced to simple human development, to help for the poor, and the liberation of the oppressed." "Although one must intervene with courage on these fronts, in collaboration with every person of good will, the Church has another primary and specific task: to help every man and woman encounter Christ, the only Redeemer," the message continued. That is why "the saint is the authentic missionary and the world waits for saintly missionaries," the papal text concludes. The Pontifical Missionary Works, an institution of the universal Church and of each particular Church, is founded to support the missionary activity of

Brazilian President Fernando Henrique Cardoso presents a statue of St. Paulina to Pope John Paul II at the Vatican on May 20. Photo CNS/Reuters

the Church in non-Christian regions. The institution carries out its task through the Diocesan Directions and Missionary Institutes, created primarily for world evangelisation. Dependent on the Vatican Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, the Pontifical Missionary Works constitutes a unique institution with four different Works: • The Work of the Propagation of the Faith: whose object is to awaken interest and responsibility for universal evangelisation

among families, Christian communities, parishes, teaching centres, ecclesial movements, and apostolic associations. It also works to promote spiritual and material assistance and the exchange of apostolic personnel for the evangelisation of the world. •The Work of St. Peter the Apostle: concerned with making Christian people sensitive to the need of the formation of a native clergy in each mission Church, and to foster spiritual and material collaboration with future priests.

• The Work of Missionary Childhood: to assist educators and trainers of children and adolescents by awakening in them a universal missionary conscience and guiding them toward a spiritual and material communion with children of less affluent regions and Churches. • The Pontifical Missionary Union of the Clergy: is responsible for promoting the missionary formation of priests, of members of religious institutes and societies of common life, of secular institutes and candidates to the priesthood.

fuR,L acold

International News

May, 2002

The stories behind slavery... By John Thavis VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Two young women - a Romanian and a Nigerian - offered a brief but dramatic lesson on the costs of human trafficking when they explained how they had been sold Into prostitution. The testimonials opened a conference in Rome held May 15-16 on "21st-Century Slavery," a phenomenon estimated to affect at least 700,000 people worldwide. Those numbers quickly took on a human face when "Mikhaila" and "Susa." both 18-years-olds who did not want their real identities publicised, spoke to reporters at the start of the conference. Mikhaila explained how she entered Italy at age 13 after being orphaned in Romania. She had been lured by promises of a better life. But a few days after her arrival, she was dropped off at a Milan nightclub and turned over to a group of men. "My Calvary began there," she said. At age 14, she was sold for the equivalent of $2,500, and forced Into prostitution. She was resold at an auction at age 16 and kept in another house of prostitution. "For two years, I never saw the light of day," she said. She was discovered there in a police raid and was taken in by the Pope John XXIII community, run by an Italian anti-slavery crusader. Father Ort3ste Benzi. Susa told a similar story of a European odyssey that began with high hopes and instead sank deeper into hidden layers of exploitation. "Ileft my country because somebody promised me a good Job," she said, adding that her parents were poor and her father was sick. But within weeks, she was handed over to her new Italian "mother." who forced her into prostitution. The woman demanded high earnings each week. or Susa was beaten. One day the girl asked an Hal-

Vietnamese girls, one as young as 8, sit on a bed in a brothel in the Cambodian village of Svay Pak near Phnom Penh in March. A government crackdown on brothels to stop sex trade rackets has failed to put an end to the industry in Cambodia, where sex with underage girls can easily be bought for around ;-Thoto CNS Reuters $30.

freeing them from the prostitution racket. In brief remarks during the audience, the Pope encouraged the group to "keep walking the path toward full freedom, which is a foundation of human dignity." At the conference at Rome's Gregorian University, Father Benzi said the biggest problem related to trafficking was the "lack of political will" to take steps against

traffickers and prostitutes' clients. He also expressed his firm opposition to a proposal, supported by some Italian politicians, that would open so-called "Eros centres" in a move to legalise prostitution and take it out of the hands of organised crime. Father Benzi said supporters of the proposal say it would "clean up the streets.," but added: "I am more interested in freeing the slaves."

tan man for help. He took her away, but abused her even more, and she discovered she was pregnant. She fled to Father Benzi's community and says the organisation is now her family in Italy. Father Benzi, a speaker at the human trafficking conference. brought some 500 former prostitutes - most of them from Eastern Europe and Africa - to Pope John

Paul H's general audience at the Vatican May 15. At the end of the audience, the priest took one of them up for a papal blessing. Father Benzi said the young woman, a Romanian named trine, told the Pope how she was kidnapped as a child and explained that there were many more like her on the street today. She asked for the Pope's help in

In his message read at the beginning of the conference by Archbishop jean-Louis Tauran. Vatican foreign minister, the pope called human trafficking a "serious threat to the security of individual countries" and "a question of international justice which cannot be deferred." The response to the problem must involve not only international legal action, which in recent years has gained momentum, but also reflection on underlying ethical questions, particularly with regard to sexual exploitation, he said. "The disturbing tendency to treat prostitution as a business or Industry not only contributes to the trade in human beings, but is itself evidence of a growing tendency to detach freedom from the moral law and to reduce the rich mystery of human sexuality to a mere commodity," he said. The pope called for more focus on the "deeper causes of the increased 'demand- that fuels trafficking, as well as on how women are viewed in Western societies. "A sound approach to the issues

involved will lead also loan exam- lem of human trafficking could the problem to one that also "conination of the lifestyles and mod- come only through international siders the conditions of inequaliels of behaviour - particularly legal cooperation and increased ty, discrimination and poverty that with regard to the image of development aid to the impover- generate it," he said. Several talks addressed the conwomen - which generate what ished countries where trafficked has become a veritable industry people usually originate - the troversial question of whether the countries where trafficking vicof sexual exploitation in the devel- "supply" side. But she said Western societies tims end up should offer them a oped countries," he said. The issue of the "sexualisation" also must conduct a serious exam- permanent home. Mohammed Y. Mattar, an expert of Western societies as a potential ination of what prompts the factor in human trafficking also demand for sexual services in on anti-trafficking legislation and co-director of the Protection Prowas raised at the conference by their own countries. "There's very little discussion of ject of johns Hopkins University, Janne Haaland Matlary, who last year headed a Vatican delegation why menin Western societies buy said some countries - including at a U.N. meeting on the com- sexual services from even chil- the United States, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium dren. mercial exploitation of children. "This is a grave, grave problem offered victims immigrant status "I am the mother of four children, two of them girls, andI see for our societies that we have to only on the condition they assist how these girls are exposed to face up to. What are the root caus- in trafficking prosecutions. But Mattar argued that it would media and other forces that sexu- es of that?" Matlary said. In opening remarks to the con- be better to adopt the policy of alise their behaviour, that tries to sexualise them at an early age," ference, Archbishop Taiwan said other countries, like Italy, which Matlary, a professor of interna- human trafficking "is a social and unconditionally offer immigrant tional politics at the University of moral problem that cannot be status on humanitarian grounds. Oslo, Norway, told conference reduced solely to a question of This reflects a vision of trafficking as a crime against the person, not participants. public order." "The role of women and the against the state, he said. "The presentation of sex as Sponsors of the conference something normal at an even ear- place of children and weak perlier age in our societies and the sons in society cannot be ignored included tobacco company Philip normalisation of sexual behav- when one considers the roots of Morris International, The Bradley Foundation and Urbi et Orbi iour at such an early age invites the phenomenon," he said. sexual abuse," she said. Countries must move beyond a Communications, U.S. publisher Matlary said solving the prob- strictly punishment approach to of Inside the Vatican magazine.

Human trafficking must stop says Pope By John Norton VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Calling human trafficking "a shocking offence against human dignity," Pope John Paul H asked countries to work together to stop the trade, punish those who profit from it and reintegrate victims into societies. He said sexual exploitation of women and children was a "particularly repugnant" side of trafficking that also should prompt deeper reflection on the trafficking "demand" in developed countries and on the sexualised image of women there. The pope made his remarks in a message to a May 15-16 conference in Rome on "21st-Century Slavery," a phenomenon estimated to affect at least 700,000 worldwide. The conference, primarily organised by the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See, featured more than 70 speakers, including government officials, trafficking experts, representatives of humanitarian organisations, and several young women who had escaped lives of forced prostitution in Italy.

23 May, 2002

The World in brief

Religious freedom VATICAN CITY (CNS) Encouraging new efforts to end Sudan's civil war, Pope John Paul II said peace must be built on religious freedom, respect for minorities and a fair distribution of the country's resources. Building national unity requires "respect for the right of existence and of identity of the minorities present in a country" and the rejection of "all discrimination based on ethnic, cultural or religious criteria," he told Abdelbasit Badawi All Elsanosi, Sudan's new ambassador to the Vatican, May 17. The country's 18year civil war pits Christian and animist African rebels in the South against the Arab Muslim government in the North. An estimated 2 million people have been killed.

Vatican sued

VATICAN CITY (CNS) - In response to news that the insurance commissioners of five U.S. states were suing it. the Vatican denied all involvement in the fraud scheme run by Martin Frankel, a financier now in jail. Vatican spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls also said May 15 that the Vatican had given "the information it had to the attorney general of the state of Mississippi." The insurance commissioners of Mississippi, Tennessee, Missouri, Oklahoma and Arkansas filed a lawsuit in federal court May 9 accusing the Vatican and Msgr. Emilio Colagiovanni of racketeering and fraud. The lawsuit claims that Frankel - currently in jail awaiting trial on charges of racketeering, fraud and conspiracy for bilking more than $200 million from insurance companies - was aided by Mgr Colagiovanni and by the Holy See in purchasing the companies. Frankel's lawyer said May 15 that he would plead guilty to racketeering, conspiracy, securities fraud and wire fraud.

Killing legalised VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Belgium's bishops condemned a parliamentary vote to legalise euthanasia in the predominantly Catholic country. Cardinal Godfried Danneels of Mechelen-Brussels said the law sets a dangerous precedent by putting the "extremely subjective' concept of 'quality of life' ahead of existence. 'This is a black day for the Belgian parliament, certainly a day marked with a black cross,' he told Vatican Radio May 17. The bill, approved May 16. allows doctors to help end the lives of patients who have reached the legal adult age of 18 and who have made a specific, voluntary and repeated request. The measure requires that the patient be in a hopeless medical situation and constantly be suffering physically Or psychologically. If the bill is signed into law, Belgium will become the second country to decriminalize assisted suicide in certain circumstances. The Netherlands, where a euthanasia law took effect April 1, was the first. Page 12

International News

Record 111

More US priests removed WASHINGTON (CNS) - As the scandal of clergy sexual abuse of minors continued to rock the U.S. church, more priests were removed from posts or told to resign. Among them were priests in New York. North Carolina, Michigan and Illinois. Following a two-month review of personnel files, Bishop Matthew H. Clark of Rochester, N.Y., asked for and received the resignations of three pastors on May 2. He told them and three other priests that they would no longer be allowed to engage in priestly ministry, wear clerical clothing or live in any parish or diocesan dwelling. The pastors - Fathers Thomas Burr of Horseheads, Foster Rogers of Chili and David Simon of Rochester - had been accused in the mid-1970s of sexual abuse involving teenagers. Because of an abuse allegation that surfaced recently against Father Robert O'Neill, who retired last June for health reasons, he has been barred from exercising any priestly ministry. Fathers William Lum and Thomas Corbett, both accused of abuse during the 1990s, had been removed from ministry at the time, but subsequently were returned to work in marriage hibunal posts at the diocesan pastoral centre, with no pastoral ministry duties. Bishop Clarke said that after extensive reading about the issue and conversations with victims,

diocese that a client has claimed the priest made an inappropriate sexual advance on him 20 years ago in Ohio, when the client was 18. A Marianist at the time, Father Watkins left his order to become a priest of the Raleigh Diocese in 1996.

- Father Francis A. "Drew" Perry, who headed a parish in Burgaw and a mission in Wallace, was placed on leave after the diocese learned he had lied on his seminary application. He said he had no previous record of arrests or of civil or criminal complaints for child abuse, although he had been arrested and charged with taking indecent liberties with a minor. Bishop Gossman said the dioBishop Wilton D. Gregory, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. He said bishops will meet in Dallas in June to form policy related to cler- cese was investigating two other recently received complaints, gy sexual abuse. Photo C • Bob Roller both for incidents that allegedly he concluded that the diocese can op F. Joseph Gossman removed occurred decades ago. One came no longer follow past practices of three priests in April under alle- from a 60-year-old man concerning a priest who died more than returning priests to ministry, even gations of sexual misconduct: a limited form of ministry, follow- Father James J. Behan of 30 years ago. The other concerned ing a credible accusation of sexu- Immaculate Conception Parish in a religious-order priest who no al abuse of a minor. "It did not Wilmington, an Oblate of St. Fran- longer lives in the diocese, who is leave people at peace," he said. cis de Sales, was placed on admin- now in his late 70s and suffering He said the diocese continues to istrative leave after a man from dementia. In Illinois, Bishop investigate two new allegations of Florida called the diocese to say Wilton D. Gregory of Belleville abuse received in March, con- Father Behan had molested him announced May 1 that he has cerning alleged incidents more 25 years ago, when he was a placed Father Edward Balestrieri than 10 years ago, and a new minor. The priest had also under- of St. Mary Parish in Sesser on abuse claim first reported in late gone counselling for six months administrative leave because of a April. The bishop also announced in 1981 after he was arrested for complaint that he had engaged in a new policy of reporting all such sexual conduct involving adults sexual misconduct with a minor allegations to civil authorities, in a public park. around 1975 when he was a passaying his discussions with vic- Father Thomas Watkins of St. tor in Asbury Park. N.J. Father tims have led him to conclude that Eugene Parish in Wendell was Balestrieri. then a Trinitarian such reporting is necessary. also placed on administrative priest, left his order to join the In Raleigh, North Carolina, Bish- Leave after an attorney notified the Belleville Diocese in 1985.

Amended marriage proposal majority of the American people." he said. The proposed amendment "will give WASHINGToN (CNS) - Catholic leaders strong legal support to the institutions of praised the introduction on May 15 in the marriage and the family, both of which are House of Representatives of a proposed the foundations of our society and our culamendment to the U.S. Constitution that ture," the cardinal added. would define marriage as the union of a The Office of Public Policy of the Archman and a woman. diocese of Philadelphia is listed on the The Federal Marriage Amendment, spon- alliance's letterhead as a member of its sored by Rep. Ronnie Shows, Mississippi, board of advisers. The amendment also and a handful of Democratic and Republi- drew immediate support from Archbishop can co-sponsors, would "strengthen soci- Charles J. Chaput of Denver and Bishop ety and foster the common good for which Paul S. Loverde of Arlington. Virginia. the state exists," said Cardinal Francis E. "Common sense, human experience and George of Chicago in a statement. the wisdom of our religious heritages all The proposed amendment reads: "Mar- support the substance of this amendment." riage in the United States shall consist only said Archbishop Chaput. of the union of a man and a woman. NeiBishop Loverde said the "environment of ther this constitution or the constitution of self-giving love" in the marriage of a man any state, nor state or federal law, shall be and a woman "is the optimal place for chilconstrued to require that marital status or the legal incidents thereof shall be con- dren to grow physically, emotionally and spiritually. By amending our constitution ferred upon unmarried couples or groups." Passage of a constitutional amendment to define marriage as consisting of a union requires two-thirds approval by both hous- between one woman and one man, somees of Congress, followed by ratification by thing our forefathers took for granted, this nation will promote the health and welfare three-quarters of the states. The Alliance for Marriage, a nonpartisan of its children, and. therefore,I support this group that organised the amendment cam- amendment," he added. The amendment also received praise paign, said that wording would bar courts or state legislatures from redefining mar- from a wide variety of other religious leadriage and would prohibit courts from ers, including the Union of Orthodox JewImposing recognition of domestic partner- ish Congregations of America, which called ships or civil unions or mandating the ben- it "a reasonable and appropriate response efits associated with marriage for same-sex to recent decisions by America's court." Other supporters include the Rev. Jesse or unmarried couples. It would leave to the decisions of state Miranda, leader of the Alliance of Nationlegislatures whether to recognise those al Evangelical Ministers, an association of unions or provide such benefits in the state, Hispanic churches in the United States and but would have no impact on benefits Puerto Rico; and Bishop George McKinney offered by private businesses or corpora- of the 8-million-member Church of God in Christ, one of the largest African-American tions, the alliance said. Cardinal Anthony J. Bevilacqua of denominations in the world. "We can no longer hope to preserve the Philadelphia, in a lengthy statement, commended sponsors of the amendment who legal status of marriage for future genera"united across party lines to support the tions short of using the ultimate democrafundamental principle that marriage is tic tool available to the American people," said Bishop McKinney at a May 15 press uniquely the union of male and female." "At a time when the strong public con- conference announcing the amendment. sensus regarding the nature of marriage is "Gays and lesbians have a right to live as facing an expanding array of legal chal- they choose. But they don't have a right to lenges, the sponsors of the Federal Mar- redefine marriage for our entire society," riage Amendment are giving voice to the said Matt Daniels, executive director of the deeply held legal convictions of a vast Alliance for Marriage. By Nancy Frazier O'Brien

Religious orders discuss finances By John Thavis ROME (CNS) - The shift of religious vocations from the First World to the Third World has weakened the economic health of some orders and raised new questions about the use of their financial assets, officials of the Union of Superiors General said. That's just one of the issues the heads of male religious orders will tackle when they meet in Rome May 22-25 to address the topic. "Economics and Mission in Consecrated Life Today." The meeting will examine the changing nature of religious orders and worldly goods. At one time, monks held cash and precious objects in hidden strongboxes; today, most major religious orders have their assets in investment portfolios. But the economic revolution has been far from uniform: There are rich orders and poor ones, and officials need to better study that gap, Marianist Father Jose Maria Arnaiz, union secretarygeneral in Rome said. Father Arnaiz explained that most religious orders over the last several decades have experienced the most growth in poorer regions of the world. This has neutralised some of the traditional sources of income - like rich benefactors, earnings from salaried labor and institutional profits - in richer regions like Europe and North America, he said. "We also have to make some difficult choices now," he said. For example, some believe the economic resources of religious orders should be funneled to the areas of increasing vocations in the Third World. But others think that would help create a class of priests who live on a higher economic level than their people, with better cars, better homes, and more travel and educational opportunities. U.S. Brother Sean Sammon, who heads the Marist Brothers in Rome, said his order currently is growing in Africa, in parts of the Pacific and in Latin America. "We do not have a financial base in any of those areas," he said. "We need to look at the implications of that." He noted, for example, that his order tries to work mainly among the poor and has evangelised largely through education. But the costs of running schools may make that difficult in Third World countries, he said.

11 Rikord

International News

Human rights must be priority says Pope By Cindy Wooden VATICAN CITY (CNS) hile economic concerns have a growing importance in international diplomacy, the first priority of diplomats must be to promote human rights and the common good of all the world's people, Pope John Paul II said. Welcoming new ambassadors from Belarus, Niger, Sweden, Thailand, Benin, Sudan, Iceland and Jordan to the Vatican on May 17, the Pope said. "Peace must be the first priority for all countries and all continents." Violent conflicts, he said, threaten the future of many countries and have plunged millions of people into living conditions that are degrading and violate human dignity."Peace progresses with the eradication of poverty and the suppression of disparities between peoples." he said. The rich must modify their lifestyles and add real solidarity to the charity they give to the world's poorest people, the Pope said. In his message to the ambassador from Iceland. the Pope said economic globalization has created new relationships between business leaders and government leaders, leading to a situation in which "foreign relations and trade often merge." "If this trend is not accompanied Using a cane, Pope John Paul ll walks to his chair as he arrives for his weekand enriched by other social and ly general audience in St. Peter's Square May 15. . •,,,ters cultural concerns, diplomacy, too, will fail to serve the integral devel- on complete respect for religious lence of terrorism, that humanity opment of individuals and peo- freedom and the need to promote is hungering and thirsting for jusples and the common good of the interreligious dialogue also were tice and peace." entire human family as it is recurring themes in the messages The Pope and religious leaders, intended to do." the Pope said. he said, "clearly proclaimed that to the ambassadors. In his speech to the eight ambasThe Sudanese representative, religions want to serve the good sadors and in separate messages Ambassador Abdelbasit Badawi of humanity and that violence can to several of them, Pope John Paul All Elsanosi, told the Pope that the never be legitimised in the name also called for greater efforts to world's Muslims and Christians of God." Improve the educational systems must "join together in moral comPope John Paul said ills imposof poor countries. bat for the establishment of a true sible to speak of the need for "The younger generations, who peace in the Middle East." peace and justice without thinkare particularly sensitive about The Pope said the international ing of the situation in the Holy dramatic situations, need strong community must promote recon- Land and of how urgent ills that signs that their hopes for the ciliation between parties in con- Israel and the Palestinians return future are not in vain," he told the flict because forgiveness is "the to negotiations. In the wake of the group. In his message to the Niger only attitude capable of healing siege of Bethlehem's Church of ambassador, the Pope said edu- hearts." the Nativity, he said, "I appeal cation "gives the younger generaIn his message to the ambas- once again to the international tion the ability to participate in sador from Jordan, the Pope said community to take without delay the transformation of society and the Catholic Church believes that the necessary measures to ensure to put into practice universal val- part of its mission is to promote respect for the holy sites and to ues such as solidarity; concern for peace on earth and continually give them real protection." the common good, respect for remind all people that they are In his speech to the group of human life and acceptance of oth- brothers and sisters. He said he ambassadors, the Pope said, "Our invited religious leaders from world currently is faced with a ers." Pope John Paul's worry over con- around the world to Assisi in Jan- number of serious crises and acts tinuing tensions and violence in uary "to proclaim before (the) of violence which the media make the Middle East and his insistence world, bruised again by the vio- known to us each day."

23 May, 2002

Religious group seeks alternatives to war WASHINGTON (CNS) - An ad hoc group of lay Catholics and members of religious orders is calling for "an urgent and deep search for alternatives to war" in a statement released to coincide with Pentecost. The group, calling itself Catholics for a Peaceful End to Terrorism, said it also sent a letter to President Bush during the week before Pentecost - May 19 this year - expressing concern that "the direction of U.S. policy toward terrorism is deepening the insecurity" of people in the United States and abroad. The statement - titled "Toward a New Paradigm of Peacemaking: A Call to Reflection and Action" and letter to Bush were a followup to an earlier statement in December 2001 calling for a peaceful end to terrorism and a new Catholic paradigm to replace the just-war theory More than 4,500 people endorsed that statement. Since then, urgent concerns raised in the statement "have not been addressed in any significant way and continue to aggravate the conditions that lead to deepening poverty, exclusion and further violence," the signers said. "Indeed, the 'war on terrorism' has expanded with dire consequences. "We have observed with horror a whole new debate emerge around the development and possible use of tactical weapons and watched the projected military budget for 2003 grow to a staggering $370 billion," the statement said. "We have seen our country's

lack of any real commitment to the eradication of poverty and exclusion and no serious steps toward righting injustices imbedded in the global economy." The statement also expressed concern about the escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine, increased U.S. involvement in Colombia and the preparations to expand the war against terrorism into Iraq. Among the signers of the 2002 statement were leaders of the Center of Concern, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, Pax Christi USA, Leadership Conference of Women Religious, Franciscan Mission Service, U.S. Catholic Mission Association, the Office for World Mission of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, the Religious Task Force on Central America and Mexico, and Network, a national Catholic social justice lobby. The letter to Bush said actions by the Bush administration are "undermining U.S. credibility in the world and the ability for the international community to work together to address the root causes of the recent conflicts." They also expressed "rejection of any proposal to cross the nuclear weapon threshold." "We will oppose war as a means to address the crises brought about by injustice, deeply rooted and unresolved historic grievances, religious: ethnic and racial intolerance, or in defense of the economic and geopolitical interests of the United States," the statement said.

Graves to stay at present PARIS (CNS) - A French bishop has welcomed further study of plans for a third Paris airport, which would have led to the plowing of graves of thousands of World War I servicemen. "A grave isn't an absolutely sacred object, only a relative one," said Bishop Jacques Noyer of Amiens. "But I'm not convinced this airport is necessary, or that it represents enough of a reason for uprooting or moving cemeteries." The bishop was reacting to an announcement by newly appointed Transport Minister Gilles de Robien that the planned airport at Chaulnes, 70 miles northwest of Paris, was being "completely reconsidered." Although in November the government announced plans for the 22,000-acre airport to relieve pressure on Paris' Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports, de Robien said on May 9 he had ordered "further studies" over the location at Chaulnes, site of heavy fighting during the 1916 Battle of the Somme. Bishop Noyer said that government officials had not consulted with church leaders over the $5.5 billion airport, originally

scheduled for construction beginning in 2005. The airport was to be linked to Paris by a high-speed rail line with connections to neighboring Britain and Belgium. Bishop Noyer said he "remained cautious" about the airport's future, adding that the minister's studies could show it still was needed. "If this airport was needed for our region's development, it might be legitimate to relocate a cemetery. But I don't think this has been established," he said. The Chaulnes cemetery is one of 410 in France's Somme district, where 1 million died on both sides during the three-month World War Ibattle. A spokesman for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which maintains British and Commonwealth military graves, said the airport would have affected at least 1,370 British graves and up to Z000 French and German graves. At least 25 local officials resigned over plans to locate the airport in the region, which is also the resting place of thousands of U.S. soldiers killed during the 1944 D-Day landings.

Polish bishops warn reckless drivers to drive ethically and stop sinning By Jonathan Luxmoore WARSAW, Poland (CNS) - The Polish bishops' conference has warned reckless drivers to "stop sinning" as part of a joint campaign with police to improve road safeIn their appeal, the bishops urged drivers to "redouble efforts to ensure safety and manners," adding that greater security and comfort would be achieved "only through observing driver ethics and thinking of other road users." The appeal was issued as new data confirmed Poland's place as

the country with the highest fatal accident rate in Europe, with more than 19,000 killed or injured in the first four months of 2002. "We all know the technical state of our roads and the unfavorable conditions which make traveling difficult," the bishops' conference said in its appeal. "Yet these difficulties do not free us from responsibility for safety - on the contrary, they demand even greater care and attention." The statement said the church was alarmed by the level of alcohol-related accidents and would support "all efforts to Improve road safety."

"Road behaviour has a social and moral aspect, since it affects the health and life of people. Traffic rules are binding in conscience, and their violation is a moral evil," the statement said. The appeal, published May 10 by Poland's Catholic information agency, came as new figures showed a 10 percent rise in fatalities in Poland, with 1,275 killed and more than 18,000 injured in more than 14,000 crashes nationwide during the first four months of 2002, compared to 1,150 dead in more than 14,000 accidents in JanuaryApril 2001. Speaking at a press conference

with Warsaw police officials, Jesuit Father Adam Szulc, bishops' conference spokesman, said dangerous driving violated the Fifth Commandment, "Thou shall not kill," and urged priests to raise road safety in homilies and religious classes. "This isn't just a police matter, but also a church one," he said. "Drivers should realise their road conduct is morally evil when it threatens their lives or the lives of other road users," he said. Most fatalities are caused by speeding and drunkenness, as well as poor transport conditions in the country. Page 13

Asian Catholic News Fears for women in Gujarat as violence continues 23 May, 2002

MUMBAI, India (UCAN) Women's groups in New Delhi and other Indian cities have protested the violence against Muslim women in the riot-torn western state of Gujarat. Hundreds of activists from 12 women's organisations, including the Young Women's Christian Association, rallied near the Indian parliament on May 13 demanding justice for the female victims of riots that have continued unabated for the past two months. Other protest rallies were held on the same day in Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. The participants say that the sexual assault, rape, murder and burning of women were an integral part of the violence that began on February 27 Brinda Karat, president of the All India Democratic Women's Association, who led the New Delhi rally, said Hindu mobs attacked Muslims in active connivance" with the Gujarat state government. Although independent investigations have revealed atrocities against women, only three cases of rape have been registered so far. it shows the government is in collusion with rabid rightwingers," Karat told UCA News.

Rikord

Muslim women admire babies born at a relief camp in Ahmedabad, the main city of the riot-torn western Indian state of Gujarat, May 16.

The Hindu right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP, Indian peoples' party) rules the state and heads the federal coalition government In New Delhi. BJP's socio-cultural groups are blamed for the attacks against Muslims. More than 1,000 people, mostly Muslims, have died in the violence that began after suspected Muslim militants set fire to a train

Photo: CNSiFteuters

coach killing 59 passengers, mostly Hindu activists. Some 100,000 Muslims who lost their homes and relatives now live in camps amid an atmosphere of fear, as independent investigations indicate police and state connivance in the violence. Sayeeda Hameed, president of the India Muslim Women's Forum, who visited Gujarat before

joining the New Delhi protest, said women "still reel under the physical and mental assaults they were subjected to." The marchers in New Delhi presented a memorandum to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee saying they will not allow the country "to be destroyed by peddlers of hate, no matter to which community, religion, caste or

creed they belong." Protestors in the western Indian city of Mumbai demanded registration of reported cases of rape, sexual assault and violence against women and girls, accepting the testimonies of survivors as witnesses. The 20 women's organisations that joined the May 13 rally in Mumbai asked the government to set up special courts to try all cases of sexual violence. "Never in the history of communal violence in India has there been such a focused, brutal attack on a community, especially on its women and children." their statement said. Gulobi Fernandes, vice president of the Young Women's Christian Association in Mumbai, told UCA News that the sexual violence against Muslim women and children was "a well planned action" to tarnish the "image of women of a particular religion." Mrinal Gore, a former member of parliament, told UCA News that the violence in Gujarat was "genocide against Muslims: She said the women's groups have appealed to Indian President K. R. Narayanan to initiate steps to end it. In Kolkata a women's organisation held it candlelight demonstration to attract attention to the plight of women in Gujarat.

Catholic educators Catechists get financial boost reject Islam-based curriculum in Indonesia YOGYAKARTA, Indonesia (UCAN) - Catholic educators have rejected a newly introduced curriculum program for senior high schools in Indonesia saying the Islam-based syllabus is irrelevant, unfair and confusing. Theodorus Sukristiyono, principal of Yogyakarta-based De Britt° Senior High School, told UCA News April 22 that the curriculum program that tried to link all school subjects with the Qur'an and Hadith (tradition) was irrelevant. The new curriculum is reportedly a clarification of the prevailing 1994 National Curriculum and called "Document on the Relevance of 10 Subjects in Senior High School with Faith and Devoutness." It was compiled and issued by the National Education Ministry's project for upgrading the religious outlook of teachers. "Essentially the document wants to give a religious touch to students through the subjects. So far we have done it in our school since it is in accord with our school's vision and mission," Sukristiyono said. However, he added that "the document links the subjects with the Qur'an and Hadith, and we are not competent to apply it because our teachers and students are not familiar with it." The 10 subjects the new curriculum links with the Islamic faith are Bahasa Indonesia, literature, English, mathematics, physics, biology, health and sports, history, civics and social science. "It is awkward and unfair to link the subjects with only Islamic teachings. We get the Impression that the government tries only to show to students the superiority of Islam," the princiPage 14

pal of the Jesuit-run school added. Hilarius Yosep Ponijan agreed. The principal of "Pangudi Luhur 2" Junior High School told UCA News that he suspected the government's hidden agenda is to reach the majority of "Islam abangan" (Muslim by name only) students. What makes the program most unethical is that Christian students in public high schools had to learn Islam, Ponijan said. Yohana Maria Mia Belang, who teaches Bahasa Indonesia and Indonesian literature at a public senior high school in Yogyakarta, said she felt "strange" to link the subject she taught with a passage from Scriptures of any religious traditions. "By implementing the policy, the students are indirectly conditioned to consider other religions Inferior or even an enemy of Islam," said Belang, a Catholic. Jesuit Father Mardi Santoso, who teaches mathematics at De Britto Senior High School, said he saw no relevance in the program. "Trying to link mathematics with faith and devoutness" is just a contrived effort, the priest said. According to the Catholic priest, Christians should not necessarily be too emotional in responding to the issue. "Just ignore it. After all in the era of regional autonomy we could design our own school curriculum," he added. Aliyanto of the Ministry of Education told UCA News May 15 that to relate faith and devotion with the high school curriculum was an old project. This idea came before the reform era of 1998, he said. "We are not so sure whether the project is still applied in the local areas," said the head of the ministry's Senior High School Affairs Division in Yogyakarta provincial office.

MANILA (UCAN) - A foundation serving catechists and religion teachers in the Philippines has raised more than half of its endowment fund target for the educators just 17 months after its establishment, a Catholic educator says. Neil Parinas, assistant executive director of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines, said the money raised so far is "above expectations" since fund drives usually take "a long time." He told UCA News on May 9 that an anonymous benefactor donated 10 million pesos (US$200,000), raising the Philippine Catechists and Religion Educators' Foundation fund (Phil-CARE) to a total of 11.6 million pesos. Parinas said 1.6 million pesos in Phil-CARE had been donated by Church groups, private firms, Catholic schools and individual benefactors. He said foundation officials were "overwhelmed" with the money channelled through De La Salle University in Manila, the Christian Brothers' school handling donations to the fund.

His association and the Episco- lic schools, the 30-minute, once-apal Commission on Catechesis week catechism class is their only and Catholic Education estab- formal instruction in Catholicism. lished Phil-CARE in November said Sister Jesusa Enginco, Phil2000 primarily to finance training CARE's secretary. and instructional material for cat"Without the catechists these echists and religion teachers. children will grow up into adults Parinas said the foundation aims who don't know much about our to set up an insurance fund, espe- faith." the Dominican nun noted. cially for catechists who trek to Louietesa Monfort said lack of mountains and areas of conflict to Instructional tools such as teach religion. Ninety-three per- teacher's guides and audiovisual cent of the country's 63,778 cate- material have sometimes demorchists are volunteers. alised catechists. Some quit Volunteers are sometimes given teaching when offered higheruniforms from their parishes paying jobs, added the catechist while professional catechists at the Parish of the Holy Sacrifice receive 250 pesos, the legal daily in Quezon City, near Manila. She minimum wage in the Manila expressed hope that the foundaregion. Parinas attributed the tion would give catechists greater strong start to the fund drive to security and fulfillment. the commitment of administraDe La Salle Brother Rolando tors and parents of students in his Dizon told UCA News that the association's 1,187 member fund is focusing on helping cateschools to help Catholic schools chists in public schools where extend their services beyond their most students are from needy current reach. families. Most Filipino students go to pubThe foundation hopes to offer lic elementary and high schools catechists and teachers training. totalling some 40,000. Enrollment Bibles, visual aids, catechist handin Catholic schools comprises a books and religion textbooks that tenth of the country's student pop- they now lack, said Brother Dizon. ulation. For most children in pub- Phil-CARE's vice chairman.

Resort now serves God not beer By T.S. Thomas MANGALORE, India (UCAN) On the sandy beaches of Mangalore, Loy Albuquerque once managed a tourist resort, but he and his wife have now turned it into a retreat centre for family renewal. Staff members, who once served chilled beer and other alcoholic beverages to tourists at the Summer Sands Beach Resorts, now help preach the Gospel at the centre on this Arabian Sea coastline. "We believe the renewal of the family is the only way to save the warring world from a disaster," Albuquerque said on May 12 after concluding the first retreat at the centre now called the Summer Sands Retreat Centre. His wife Rose said they spent most of their lives attracting customers and providing them comforts. She described their change

as "a gradual, but steady process." "a difficult decision" that was A year ago, the Albuquerque taken after "three years of fasting family closed their busy bar sec- and prayer." tion of the resort and stopped Jesuit Father Arul Elango said serving liquor to customers. The that he was "much taken up by rooms are now available for those their conviction and commitment. wishing to make retreats. This praying family gave me the The business "is not closed, but Inspiration to become stronger in we will use the facilities to spread faith and commitment," said the God's message," Rose said, stand- young Jesuit from Andhra ing in their 4-hectare resort filled Pradesh, who came to Mangalore with palm trees on a sandy beach, to make a retreat. 2,270 kilometres south of New Xavier Raj, a divorcee with a Delhi. The resort-turned retreat drinking problem, attended the centre in Karnataka state has over first retreat along with some 100 20 independent villas, two prayer others. Raj said that he felt called halls and a swimming pool. to reconcile with his wife and "God has touched me and he is daughter. our lives' close associate," said Rain Padinjarekkuttu, a Hindu Albuquerque, who admitted that said after the retreat that he was his resort once provided a "plat- "deeply moved by the commitform for sinful life to many." ment of the Catholic couple," who According to Rose, abandoning have given up their comforts "to the bar licence of the resort was save people like us."

Official Engagements

f Record EirEiiCATC HER

MAY

s tviv-s)

27 30 31

BUILDING TRADES LIC. PLUMBER/gas fitter, Contact John on 9457 7771, Mobile 0412 185 209. PICASSO Painting. Top service. Phone 9345 0557, fax 9345 0505. POOL K AVANAGH'S SERVICE, for all your pool needs. Ph 9349 0223 ELECTRICIAN, Power/light points from $50 each. Rewiring our speciality. 0418 941 286. 9279 5008.

BRICK re-pointing. Phone Nigel 9242 2952

THANKS

NEED additional income? Work from home. Ring distributor independent Mark Norman 9487 1787.

THANKS

FURNITURE REMOVAL

M Y GRATEFUL thanks to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and to St Jude for answering my prayer. P.H.

ALL areas. Mike Murphy 1800 016 310 (free call).

No: 3312 ISSN: 1327 - 3531

Peter Rosengren PO Box 75, Leederville, WA. 6902 587 Newcastle Street. West Perth. WA. 6005.

(08) 9227 7080. Fax: (08) 9227 7087 Phone: c,athrec@iinet.net.au e-mail: Roman Catholic Archbishop of Perth. Publisher: The Record, established in 1874, is distributed to Catholic churches. presbyteries, religious houses and subscribers throughout the Archdiocese of Perth and the Dioceses of Geraldton, Bunbury and Broome. Advertising rates S6.60 col cm (Gsr included) Display: S3.30 a line (Gsr included) Classifieds: Tuesday, first mail. Editorial: Deadlines: Booking: Monday midday. Advertising: Copy: Tuesday midday. Aust Catholic Press Association: Aust Religious Member: Press Association. The Record follows the Holy Spirit's teaching at the Second Vatican Council on the role of the Catholic print media. The Record will not return copy or photographs submitted for publication unless specifically requested in writing upon submission. The editor reserves the right to accept or reject any material submitted and to edit such material for clarity and brevity without recourse to the author.

Pope's plea for support Vatican City, May 15. 2002 (ZENIT.org). - A few days before his 82nd birthday, John Paul H asked for spiritual support from the millions of Catholics throughout the world in order to continue his ministry as Bishop of Rome. More than 13,000 pilgrims came together in Saint Peter's Square for the general audience, to greet the Pope for his upcoming birthday on May 18. After thanking them for their festive gestures of appreciation, which often turned into shouts and songs he said, "I turn to your spiritual support, to continue with fidelity in the ministry that the Lord has entrusted to me." Press speculations of the Pontiff s resignation have circulated since the beginning of the 1990's, only to be denied constantly by the Holy Father with words such as these and his increasing agenda. After eight months, he prepares again to begin a series of international trips, which have for the first stage Bulgaria and Azerbaijan, from May 22-26.

At the end of July, he will travel to Canada for the World Youth Day in Arturo Mari Toronto, after which, he will go to Pope John Paul II greets youngsters at Guatemala and Mexico. In the secHoly Family Church in Zakopane, Poland, ond half of August, he intends to visit during his trip in June 1997. his homeland, Poland.

Commission for Australian Catholic Women Reception Fr Vincent Glynn Memorial Mass for Fr Thomas O'Prey, Floreat - Bishop Healy Blessing and opening of Centrecare premises. Cannington Fr Tony Pires

JUNE KOCH Patricia (nee Liap-

PERROTT PAINTING Pty Ltd for all your residential, commercial painting requirements. Phone Tom Perrott 9444 1200.

Record Managing Editor: Postal address: Street address:

RERBALIFE PRODUCTS

BUILDING TRADES

Presentation of Archbishop's Spirit Award, Bassendean Bishop Sproxton Mass celebrating Scalabrinian Feast Day. West Perth Archbishop Hickey Diaconate Enquiry Day - Archbishop Hickey. Bishop Sproxton

27-31 Federation of Catholic Bishops Conferences of Oceania, Papua New Guinea - Archbishop Hickey, Bishop Sproxton

24-hour hotline Phone 9227 7778 Deadline for classie ads: 5pm Monday

Classified ads: S3 per line (plus GST)

Mass and Solemn Profession, Carmelite Monastery Archbishop Hickey

pas): We wish to extend a sincere THANK YOU for the love and support we have received from family friends and neighbours. Your words of kindness and prayers have been a comfort to us. A special thank you to Father Petry, Sister Anne and all the staff at both RPH and Murdoch hospice. Mick Koch and family

Mass with Fr Paul Maria Sigl. St Mary's Cathedral Archbishop Hickey Mass. Procession and Benediction. Hamilton Hill Bishop Sproxton Corpus Christi Mass and Procession. Toodyay -

Corpus Christi Mass and Procession. Gingin - Bishop Quinn Reception to Celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee. Government House- Mgr Thomas McDonald. Rev Fr T Deeter

Bishop Healy

LifeLink Internet Launch for schools - Archbishop Hickey. Bishop Sproxton A ddress to students, UWA School of Law - Archbishop Hickey

Archdiocesan Panorama CORPUS CHRISTI EUCHARIST PROCESSION Monsignor T McDonald will be carrying the Most Blessed Eucharist in a solemn procession from Langley Park, Victoria Ave end, to St. Mary's Cathedral on Sunday. 2nd June. Please assemble at 2.00pm. and move off at 2.15pm. Divine Mercy Prayers said in Cathedral at 3.00pm, followed by Benediction. Enquires to Tony: 9450 2627 or Fred: 9245 4843. FEAST OF CORPUS CHRISTI Exposition and Benediction Thurs May 30, 1pm 6.30pm. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in t he Pro-Cathedral after the 1pm Mass till the evening Mass at 6.30pm. Mass & Benediction for Our Lady Help of Christians (transferred feast) on Monday May 27. and Mass on Friday May 31 at 6.30pm for the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary. St John's Pro-Cathedral. Victoria Ave. All Welcome. Inq: Fr Michael Rowe: 9444 9604. DIVINE MERCY The Divine Mercy Apostolate invites everyone to a joint celebration in the Corpus Christi Procession on Sunday, June 2.The Procession will leave Langley Park at the junction of Victoria Avenue and Terrace Road at 2.15pm. Parishes. Religious groups. national and Ethnic Communities are invited. Inq: John 9457 7771. or Linda 9275 6608.

MEMORIAL MASS A memorial Mass for Fr. Tom O'Prey who died recently in Wales, will take place at Our Lady of Victories Church. Wembley on Thursday May 30 at 7.30pm. Please join us in praying for Fr Tom who was our Parish Priest from 1994-1998. Eternal rest grant to him, 0 Lord. ALLIANCE AND TRIUMPH OF THE TWO HEARTS ALL NIGHT EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Our Lady of Mercy Church, Girrawheen. Celebration begins on Friday June 7 at 9pm with Holy Mass followed by candlelight Rosary and Eucharistic Procession. Vigil concludes Saturday with Holy Mass at 7.15am. All are invited. Information: 9342 5845. (Hourly prayer. reflections during the night. Refreshments provided). SPIRITUALITY IN THE PUB Monthly gatherings of Spirituality in the Pub are planned to resume Wednesday July 24. Fourth Wednesday of each month 7.30-9.10pm at the Elephant and the Wheelbarrow Hotel, 53 Lake St. Northbridge. Speakers to be announced soon. SOLEMNITY OF SACRED HEART AT BULLSBROOK SHRINE

Friday, June 7, at the Shrine of Virgin of the Revelation, 36 Chittering Road, Bullsbrook. Reconciliation and the Rosary commence at 10.30am. followed by Holy Mass and Consecration to the Sacred Heart and the Immaculate Heart of Mary at 11am. For inquiries phone SACRI: 9447 3292. MARRIAGE GUIDANCE For couples experiencing serious difficulties is available through the program Retrouvaille/ Rediscovery. It begins with a live-in weekend on May 31 - June 2. Confidential enquiries 9242 4423. BUSINESS PERSONS MASS

Will be celebrated at All Saints Chapel. Allendale

Square, Perth on Friday. May 31 at 7am. followed by a Breakfast Meeting at the WA Club. 101 St Georges Terrace, Perth. The guest speaker will be Maureen Colgan from Notre Dame University. Inquiries: 9384 0809. TALKS AT JOHN XXIII COLLEGE 'Responding better to anger - my own and others'. Presenter: Ean James (Clinical Psychologist). S5 (donation unwaged). 7.30-9.30pm Tues May 28. 'Filling my spiritual well'. - Part 2. Ignatian spirituality. (Talk 4) Cost: Donation for the Inigo Centre. 11am-1pm Saturday June 1. Multi purpose room John XXIII College. \WITNESS FOR LIFE PROCESSION The next first Saturday Mass, procession and Rosary vigil will be held on June 1, commencing with Mass at 8.30am at St Anne's Church, Hehir St. Belmont. We proceed to the Rivervale Abortion Centre and conclude with Rosary, led by Fr. Paul Carey SSC. Inq: Francette 9279 3934. PRO-LIFE PROCESSION The first Friday Mass, procession and Rosary vigil will be held on June 7 commencing at 9.30am with Mass celebrated at St Brigid's Church, Midland. The Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate will lead us. All are invited to witness for the sanctity of life. Inq: Helen 9402 0349. S ANT EGIDIO Sant Egidio Community would like to welcome everyone to join us for prayers.We meet for weekly prayer at Maylands Parish Church. 7th Ave Maylands on Friday nights at 7.30pm. For more info call Colleen Maree on 9371 0622. FORMATION OF PARISH LITURGY This workshop is an opportunity to valuate your Liturgy Committee and view resources. Tues 4 June. Our Lady of Rosary Parish Centre. Woodlands. 7.30-9.30 pm. Register by: Thurs 30 May. Archdiocesan Liturgy Office, GPO Box P1217, Perth WA 6844. Phone: 9221 1548. Fax: 9221

3694. Email: litrcia@nw.com.au. COUNTRY PARISHES - WORKSHOP SIMPLE MUSIC FOR CELEBRATIONS

Fr Timothy Deeter will present a workshop of: Simple Music for Mass Parts and Acclamations. Friday 31 May, 2002, 6.30pm-8.30 pm. St Joseph's Church. Wellington Street. Northam. Register by Tuesday 28 May. Archdiocesan Liturgy Office. Phone: 9221 1548, Email: litrcia@nw.com.au COLUMBAN STUDENT REUNION All ex seminarians of St Columbans College are invited to a special closure weekend on the 16,17

and 18 August. We would like you to join us for this occasion. Please contact us (02)9488 8844. Fax (02 9449 4967. Email:cmi@ columban. org.au or write 420 Bobbin Head Rd. North Turramurra.2074. We need to hear from you! ARCHBISHOP'S TEN-POINT PLAN Sacramental Life in the Church. 'The Layman's Hour with Raymond andTheresa de Souza (Radio Fremantle, 107.9 FM Sun 26 May at 7.30pm. Ring 9494 2100 to have your say.

Page 15

Order makes a difference for Timorese youth E

By Br Michael Lynch

as,,Fimor officially became the world's newest nation this month. It is, however, the poorest country in Asia. More than 75 per cent of the population are subsistence rice farmers making a meagre living off the land. The East Timorese Salesians, working in schools and parishes In seven centres, are helping young people and families become more self-reliant and selfmotivated in the rebuilding of the country. Dairy Project at Don Bosco Agricultural School, Fuiloro Don Bosco Agricultural School Fuiloro, is in the process of establishing a dairy herd and constructing a fully operational dairy, the aim of which is to provide fresh milk for children in the Fuiloro-Lautem District.

This project is being undertaken in partnership with the Kiwanis Clubs of Australia and New Zealand and is co-ordinated by Kevin Wood. Mr Wood said that Fuiloro was chosen because the Don Bosco Agricultural School is the only agricultural training facility currently operating in East Timor. There are 135 students in the senior high school's agricultural courses and a further 1000 youngsters on the campus in the junior high and elementary schools. A herd of 32 cattle has been reared for the Kiwanis Club of Brighton, Victoria, at the Geelong Christian College and on farms in northern Victoria. The herd was shipped to East Timor in April. The project has been financed by the Kiwanis, and the Financial Planning Association supported by Australian Volunteers International and AusAID.

Technical Education at Don Bosco Technical School, Fatumaca and Don Bosco Training Centre Comoro Both DBTS Fatumaca, and the DBTC Comoro continue to play an important role in technical and vocational education in East Timor and in providing initial training for skilled tradesmen in building and motor vehicle repairs. Don Bosco Technical School Fatumaca is a regular school with 270 young men raged 16 - 231 enrolled in the three-year program. At the completion of their courses, Br Marcal. the Headmaster said that the students apply for the jobs that are available, with a high proportion securing employment: others continue their studies at the university in Dili. "Overall there are not a lot of job opportunities in East Timor at

Students at St Mary Mazzarello Girls' High School study food preparation and cooking.

Br Adriano (right), Co-ordinator of Don Bosco Training Centre Comoro, chatting to a group of friends.

present.I often see our former students in Dili employed as carpenters, electricians, motor mechanics, teachers and in other jobs such as the media and transport". Br Marcal said. Don Bosco Training Centre Comoro provides a less structured environment than Fatumaca, providing courses which are employment related. The age of the students ranges from 17 to 35. Br Adriano, co-ordinator of the Centre, said they were catering mainly for those who have not had the opportunity to complete high school, including a good number of former Falintil freedom fighters. Salesian Sisters at Venilale As well as an orphanage cater-

A student at Don Bosco Fatumaca masters basic wood turning skills.

Students at Don Bosco Fatumaca learn basic engineering.

A Message

Family Subscription

from

Archbishop

$55 for 52 issues of The Record Name__....................... Address Suburb....

Please debit my

Bankcard

Mastercard

Visa Card No.

Postcode Telephone

Expiry Date:

I enclose cheque/money order for $

Send to: The Record, PO Box 75, Leederville WA 6902

Page 16

ing for more than 100 girls. the Sisters also run the St Mary Mazzarello Girls' High School and the Venilale Medical Centre. The high school has more than 100 boarders. It has been observed that the girls leave St Mary Mazzarello School well prepared for employment and for life in general. "The education of young women is especially important in East Timor, " Sr Joanna. the Principal. said. "However, because they are from very poor families, we rely heavily on outside support just to get the money to keep the school running. Sometimes we are short of money to pay teachers and to feed the students. "We pray that our friends in Australia will continue to support us in this important work in East Timor," Sr Joanna added. The two doctors who run the Venilale Medical Clinic are Salesian Sisters Alma and Paola, with medical degrees from Italian universities. The Clinic serves the people of Venilale and neighbouring villages. While there is still a great deal to be done in East Timor to get the country "up and running," the Salesian contribution to the development of the nation is both significant and appreciated by many. Donations for Salesian projects in East Timor can be sent to: Salesian Missions Office, PO Box 80, Oaldeigh Vic 3166.

Signature:

Hickey

eirhe Record is our own Catholic weekly newspaper. It tells us what's happening in the Church locally and internationally. The television and the daily newspaper don't give much space to the Church and when they do, it's often bad news. Find out what is really going on. There is always something in The Record to interest and inspire evTy member of the family. Buy it every week