The Record Newspaper 31 October 1996

Iliecord WA's only Catholic weekly newspaper

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Perth: October 31, 1996

Hope blossoms at Wandalgu school and difficult journey of reconcilia- school exchange where some of the tion between Europeans and Abo- Wandalgu children came to Perth rigines. for a week and experienced school This school, like every other life at Our Lady of Fatima School, Catholic school, exists to give its Palmyra. students the basic education and A few weeks later, the students at life skills that they need to max- Wandalgu hosted a return visit to imise the gifts and talents God has their school from Our Lady of Fatigiven to them. Most of the children ma School. This is a story about the relation- at Wandalgu are Aboriginal. I covered the visit of the Wandalship between the original AusLast Friday morning I witnessed a gu children to Our Lady of Fatima tralians and those who came later small event in the life of the stu- School and their excursion to a to their land, of how young Abo- dents from Wandalgu and of the training session at Subiaco Oval to riginal and European Australians students at another Catholic pri- watch the West Coast Eagles. can have the confidence to build a mary school here in Perth that The students from Wandalgu I united Australia. moved me deeply. met then were "different" to many Wandalgu Catholic Primary Over a year ago the present prin- of the other young people I see in School at Tardun is one of the cipal of St Thomas School. Clare- the same age range in our other places where the Church. through mont, Ms Geri O'Keefe, was schools around the State. the Pallotine Fathers and Catholic principal at Wandalgu. In May last It was their disposition. They teachers, has continued the long year. Ms O'Keefe arranged a cross- appeared to be timid and self-conscious of who they were. In a sense, they seemed like "strangers in their own land". Last Friday I met many of those same Wandalgu children again. The difference in their disposition as they expressed pride in their culture could not have been more profound than had I witnessed a miracle. This year Ms O'Keefe invited them to visit the children at her new school, St Thomas'. and to perform some of the stories they have been learning from their own culture and history. These children are members of the Yamaji people from the Murchison. Continued on Page 2 St Thomas's principal Geri O'Keefe speaks to the Wandalgu children Debate about the views of Federal MP Pauline Hanson have worried Australians. Here is a story from the media officer of the Catholic Education Office of WA, Brian Coyne, that shows there is hope for the future

The Yamaji people had discovered "the strength and beauty of fire".

Evolution more than a hypothesis: Pope By Lynne Weil ROME (CNS) - In a message to international scientists, Pope John Paul II said the Church accepts evolution as a theory well-supported by research in a variety of scientific fields. At the same time, though, the Pope said the development of the spiritual aspect of human life cannot be explained scientifically. Pope John Paul said in a statement on 22 October to the plenary session of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, there was meaning in the fact that several scientific disciplines had come up with evidence of evolution independent of one another. "More than 'the theory' of evolution, it is appropriate to speak of 'the theories' of evolution," he said. "This plurality accounts, on the one hand, for the diversity of

explanations that have been proposed as the mechanism of evolution and, on the other hand, for diverse philosophies." The Pope noted that he was not the first pontiff to state that science and Church can find points of agreement in this area. He said Pope Pius XII, for example, wrote in a 1950 encyclical that there was no conflict between evolution and the doctrine of the faith, as long as it was understood there were firm points of faith where no concession could be made. "Today, nearly half a century after the publication of the encyclical, new knowledge leads to recognition of the theory of evolution as more than a hypothesis," Pope John Paul said. Charles Darwin popularised evolutionary theory in the 19th century with his book, On

Can you name this likely lad? -Page II

the Origin of Species by Means theory. Its main theme was The Origins and the Evolution of of Natural Selection. The book and its adherents met Life: Reflections on Science at the with stark opposition from the Dawn of the Third Millennium. In his statement, Pope John Paul Church at the outset. But this tension has gradually eased with the explained that it is in the Church's refinement of evolutionary con- interest to develop its scientific cepts and modified biblical stud- knowledge. "In the domain of inanimate and ies from the late 19th century onward. animate nature, the evolution of The Vatican of late has shown a science and its applications gives heightened interest in evolution rise to new questions," he said. theory. At a June symposium, co- "The Church can understand its sponsored by the Vatican Obser- importance all the better vatory and encouraged by the by recognising its essential Pope, participants suggested that aspects." Speaking in general about the to view the development of human life in terms of an "on- scientific method. the Pope pointgoing creation" is a scenario that ed out that "a theory proves its makes increasing sense, scientifi- validity with the degree to which it submits to verification." cally and theologically. "It is constantly measured by the In its late-October plenary session. the Pontifical Academy accumulation of facts," he continof Sciences set out to refine theo- ued. Continued on Page 15 logical expression of evolution

Notre Dame's new Stations of the Cross - Page 2

Jubilee Year join in call Archbishop Barry Hickey has asked Perth Archdiocese Catholics to join in the three years of special preparation for the Jubilee Year 2000, when Christians world wide will celebrate the 2000th anniversary of the coming of Jesus Christ into the world. Archbishop Hickey says in this weeks Perspective on Page 2 of The Record that next year, the first year of preparation. will be the Year of Jesus to be followed by the Year of the Holy Spirit in 1998 and the Year of God the Father in 1999, leading to a trinitarian celebration of the beginning of the Third Millennium. "This coming year will be a time when the person of Jesus can truly come alive for us," he said. "He is, in the words of Hebrews, "the only Saviour of the world, yesterday, today and forever" (Heb 13:8)." The Archbishop will travel to to Rome on 9 November to help organise the Synod of Oceania which will take place before the Year 2000.

Christmas Lifelink Appeal - Page 3

Via Dolorosa art points to our life's crosses

I

jast SundayIblessed a set of Stations of the Cross which now adorn the walls of the University of Notre Dame. The Stations were executed in bronze relief by the artist Peter Schipperheyn who also carved the beautiful marble Madonna and Child that has already become a special symbol of the University. I urge people if they have the opportunity to contemplate these Stations of the Cross. They are all drawn from Scripture, and each one features a Biblical quotation. It is hard to view these Stations without being moved. Our long tradition of the Stations of the Cross goes back to the earliest Christian times when pilgrims went to Jerusalem to walk the Sorrowful Way, the Via Dolorosa, that Jesus walked, pausing frequently to recall the events along the way and to pray. It was not possible for all to go to Jerusalem. Gradually pilgrims walked the Way of the Cross in their own towns and Churches. There was no fixed number in early years. When the Franciscans popularised the devotion in the 14th century, the number was fixed at

fourteen. Recently it has included Perth on the occasion of the dispute. He gave them as the first the Resurrection, as the Stations Pope's 50th Anniversary of priest- Commandment, the "Shema", the beginning and ending in the hood. famous Commandment of Moses Notre Dame chapel do. I also ask you to be part of the himself that they were to love the As you walk and pause to three years of special preparation Lord their God with all their heart admire the artistry, allow your- for the Jubilee Year 2000, when and with all their soul and with selves to be drawn into the theme we celebrate the 2000th anniver- all their mind. of each Station, contemplating the sary of the coming of Jesus Christ The second, love of neighbour, sorrowful journey that Jesus in our world. was not new either. made on his way to his crucifixThe first year of preparation will Even Moses had angrily threation and the final act of sacrifice be the Year of Jesus. The second ened them with dire consethat opened for us eternal life. will be on the Holy Spirit and the quences if they did not love all You will find in these Stations an third, 1999, will be the Year of God within their ranks, especially the echo in your own lives. You will the Father, leading to a trinitarian poor. discover that when one follows celebration of the beginning of "If you are harsh with (the Jesus, he will be carrying his cross the Third Millennium. widow or the orphan), my as we must carry ours. This coming year will be a time anger will flare andI shall kill you I am shortly to go to Rome. The when the person of Jesus can with the sword" (Ex 22 :24). This main reason for my visit is to help truly come alive for us. is a far cry from the polite preachorganise the Synod of Oceania He is, in the words of Hebrews, ing of today! which will take place before the "the only Saviour of the world, Ills important to remember that Year 2000. yesterday, today and forever" the love of God and love of neighIt will bring together the (Heb 13:8). bour go together. Know that God has come so Churches of Australia, New You all carry the name of ChrisAfter all, the nature of God is close to you as to send his only Zealand, Papua New Guinea and tian through your Baptism. In Love Itself. When we love others, Son, Jesus Christ, into our world, the Islands of the Pacific. 1998 you will have the opportu- God is there too. and into our very modern world, The Synod will culminate in a nity to know him more deeply, Love breaks down the barriers in order to show us the way and meeting in Rome of all the Bish- love him more intensely and that separate us from God, to bring us home. ops of the area, in the presence of announce him more courageous- because, by loving, we share the Learn to know Jesus well and the Holy Father. ly. very essence of God; in a human He will bring you to the Father. While in RomeIwill visit our six Last Sunday's Gospel tells us of way, of course, but in a way that Learn to love God with all your seminarians studying there, and Jesus' reply to the Pharisees who opens up an intimate relationship heart and you will be able to live present to the Holy Father the asked him deviously to name the with the God who loves us all. your lives in today's confusing combined congratulations and greatest commandment. He gave Know that as Christian people pace and conflicting values as a prayers from the Archdiocese of them an answer they could not you are called to be people of love. true follower of Christ.

LEADERSHIP MANAGEMENT-SUPERVISOR SKILLS Contact

Zejdler's Training

(Industry experienced & academically qualified) Phone/Fax 09 293 1130, Mobile 017 856 217 Mail: PO Box 204, Kalamunda WA 6076

THE CATHOLIC EDUCATION COMMISSION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

invites applications for the following positions:

PRINCIPAL Mary MacKillop Catholic Community Primary School BALLAJURA

(re-advertised) Mary MacKillop Catholic Community School is a co-educational school of approximately 461 students from Pre-primary to Year 7.

Sacred Heart School BEAGLE BAY

Sacred Heart School is a co-educational Aboriginal school catering for 130 students from Pre-primary to Year 10 and is situated 128 kms north of Broome on the Dampier Peninsular. The philosophy is one of two-way learning and acknowledges both a western and Aboriginal curriculum. Teachers are supported by Aboriginal Teaching Assistants and one staff member is a TESOL teacher. The successful applicants will take up the positions on 1 January 199Z or a date to be negotiated with the Director for the Mary MacKillop appointment. Applicants need to be actively involved in the Catholic Church and be experienced educators committed to the objectives and ethos of Catholic education. They will have the requisite theological, pastoral and managerial competencies together with an appropriate four year minimum tertiary qualification and will have, or be prepared to complete, appropriate Accreditation requirements. Further information and official application forms are available from Sr Clare Rafferty, Consultant, School Personnel Team, Ph: (09) 388 4268.

Official application forms should be addressed to The Director, Catholic Education Office of WA, PO Box 198, Leederville WA 6903 and be lodged no later than Monday 11 November for Sacred Heart School and Tuesday 5 November for Mary MacKillop School. Catholic schools are smoke-free work places. The tRecarci, Octobert.31 1996 Page 2

Archbishop's

Perspective

Hope blooms at Wandalgu school Continued from Page 1. One of their dramatised stories told how their people had become empowered many centuries ago through the discovery of the strength and beauty of fire. The children of St Thomas' School. and many of their parents, sat in "rapt awe" as the Wandalgu students acted out the story to the sounds of didgeridoos and clap sticks and a narration by their new principal, Vin Russell. The students were young men and women transformed from the timid and self-conscious children 14 months earlier. They had a new sense of pride in themselves,their history and culture. It seems to me that there are many lessons to come out of this series of exchange visits. One is that Australian Catholics share something in common with the Aboriginal people. Our own Catholic history in Australia is that, for a long time, we were also "marginalised to the mainstream". It was the Sisters and Brothers of earlier generations who gave selflessly of themselves to give us, as "a people", the education that our ancestors could not afford to give their children, an education that enabled the Catholic "people" to lift themselves into the mainstream. Should we not pause a moment and thank God for this land which has given oppressed people from so many lands a taste of freedom and the chance to be unselfconsciously "themselves"? Should we not pause a moment and thank God for those teachers who, like the thousands of sisters and brothers who "lifted us up" as "a people", continue that work in places like Wandalgu. St Thomas', and the other Catholic schools throughout WA today? S.

If you are Spiritual or a Churchgoer and wouldlike improvedspirituallife,I advise you to get in touch with St. Francis Secular Order, Victoria Park (especially if you (ive South of the river). We meet every 3rdSunday of the month at 3pm at Marie Isaiah PCace, backof St. ioachims Church, Victoria Park, Phone 361 5060 Doug Williams

Imposing Stations of Cross unveiled at Notre Dame

Archbishop Hickey, centre, before one of the new Stations of the Cross at Notre dame Australia with the university's Vice Chancellor, Peter Tannock, left, the university's Chancellor Terry O'Connor, the donor of the stations, Ms Dianne Wansborough, and the sculptor, Peter Schipperheyn.

Archbishop Barry Hickey last Sunday blessed 14 Stations of the Cross for the University of Notre Dame Australia in Fremantle last Sunday. One of Australia's foremost sculptors, Peter Schipperheyn from Melbourne, crafted the stations in bronze. The stations provide a graphic and emotional tale of Christ's last journey to Calvary. Placed around the courtyards and chapel of the campus, the magnificent works of art are open to be viewed by the public. Mr Schipperheyn is also the creator of a statue of the Madonna and Child which can also be seen at the university. The university's vice chancellor, Peter Tannock said the university, the community and Australia would benefit from the presence of the works.

"We are all grateful to Dianne Wansborough, one of our Governors, who made the commission of the Stations of the Cross possible," he said. Mr Schipperheyn came to Perth last week to install the bronzes, measuring about 1.5 metres by 1.5 metres, in two of the university's courtyards and the chapel. Mr Schipperheyn is one of Australia's leading sculptors. He won the Wynne Prize - the most prized award for sculpture - in 1992. Edmund Capon, director of the Art Gallery of NSW, has said that Mr Schipperheyn's work "expresses hope, sensitivity, classicism, contemporaneity; it shows above all that the fundamental concerns and emotions of mankind, like great art, transcend time."

Mental health appointment Archbishop Barry Hickey has appointed Western Australian born and raised Jesuit priest Father Michael McShane Archdiocesan Chaplain for Mental Health following the retirement of Fr Rodney Williams. Fr Williams was farewelled this week at a function at Graylands Hos-

pital and a Mass to commemorate Mental Health Week last Sunday in East Perth. Fr McShane has been assisting Fr Rodney Williams for the last 12 months. He will be based at Graylands Hospital.

Funds Sought fOr Archdiocese's welfare work

Idtglhentsgehefoarr

the the laity

The Archdiocese of Perth's annual Christmas Lifelink appeal for its social welfare services was launched last week in the southern suburbs of Perth at Sts John State chairman of the Knights of the Southern Cross presents Geraidton KSC and Paul parish in Willeton. councillor Geoff Marsland with an award in Albany for best state councillor. The northern suburbs launch took place this Thursday at Infant News of the success of the lined by Pope John Paul II in his Jesus parish, Morley. Knights of the Southern Cross Exhortation on the vocation and new Education Foundation, mission of the laity. As the appeal began, ArchbishOn Sunday Fr Tony Chiera, which has so far raised more than op Barry Hickey asked Catholics $210,000 was a highlight of the chairman of the Bunbruy Diocese to give generously to the 1996 74th annual state conference of Adult Faith Formation CommitChristmas Appeal for LifeLink. the Knights in Albany last week- tee, addressed workshops on Previously the appeal was what the Knights could do in the end. known as the Advent Appeal and and the community to Bishop parishes Bishop of Bunbury, The took place in the first week of the mission of the the conadvance Quinn, informed Peter December. Advent - generally in ference of his diocese's program Church. This year the Appeal has been It is hoped that the results of the designed to provide lay assistance brought back into November to workshops will generate an agenfor pastoral work in the diocese. enable potential donors to seriBishop Quinn challenged the da framework for KSC branches ously consider their donation KSC to examine the ways in for the next year, focussing their before the busy Christmas period which its members could support actions on the challenges outlined begins in earnest. the thrust of lay ministry, as out- by Bishop Quinn and Fr Chiera. Lifelink representative Stephen Court explains details of the LifeLink proLifeLink is the name adopted gram at Willetton last week as Archbishop Hickey, centre, and Vicar Generlast year to signify the fundraising al Monsignor Michael Keating look on. organisation for the Archdioceselling and respite care to help adolescent conflict resolution. san welfare agencies. The settlement of migrants and Art lovers gathered for the offiIt tries to rationalise the the well-being and development of funded. All handiis also of both intellectually refugees opening last week of thellvacial fundraising for the agencies and are provided irretheir families. these services capped people and sures of New Norcia - a aims to maintain existing levels of creed. race, colour or are also services providspective of There exhibition monastery-in-the-bush welfare services for all those who Lifelink said this week dona- at the Art Gallery of WA, marking ing dignified support, compassion are in need. and companionship for all people tions would not only help those in 150 years of Benedictine presence The agencies operate in the infected and affected by HIV and need, but also encourage "those at New Norcia. name of the Church and in all AIDS, and counselling for couples who work in the Church's agenSpain's Ambassador to Ausways conduct themselves in with infertility problems and cies either as an employee or vol- tralia. Emilio Fernandez-Castano accordance with the Church's teaching fertility awareness. unteer, to continue their valuable opened the exhibition which is a teachings and beliefs, Lifelink Other services include: out-of- caring work." rare opportunity to see a magnifsaid. The agency said all monies icent feast of 180 art objects, some home care services for Aboriginal The archdiocese's welfare agen- children and support services for received would go directly to the seen for the first time. cies provide many services, families; a self-help centre for archdiocesan welfare agencies, New Norcia's Prior AdministraIncluding employment training people with disabilities and their and all donations over $2 were tor, Dom Placid Spearritt said the and support services to disadvan- families providing information, tax deductible. community and its treasures It also asked for prayers for wouldn't be here today if it hadtaged unemployed job seekers; a counselling, faith development, unique service for lone Aborigi- advocacy, education, training and those in need and for those in the n't been for the "more than a hun- Dom Pfacid Spearritt with Ambasnal women in Perth who require work experience; marriage coun- Church's welfare agencies who dred" generous and far sighted sador Emilio Fernandez-Castano, safe, supported short term accom- selling, individual counselling, provide these welfare services on missionary monks, nuns, and lay admiring The Holy Family, circa 1560, modation; and the provision of group work, family counselling behalf of the Catholics of the arch- people from Spain who kept the oil on canvas, by Giovanni Bernardiresidential, recreational, coun- with specialist services in parent- diocese. monastery and its works going. no Azzolino.

A magnificent art feast

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The Record, October 31 1996 Page 3

Convention study units to help youth negotiate life Formation at both the spiritu- help those who are inquiring the best is not always the easiest. al and personal levels has been about the Church's teaching, he Returning from Sydney for her shown overseas to help adoles- added. third youth Convention, Sr Pam cents and young adults avoid The main electives are as fol- Williamson is sure to be among the most popular figures of the "at risk" lifestyles, Catholic lows. Youth and Young Adult Ministry 1.Phoning Home - A new look convention. 8. Music - Using music to bring director Bruce Downes said this at prayer and meditation. yourself week. and others closer to God. Presented by Sr Francesca Tan 9. Drama - How to use drama Bruce said studies done in var- a vibrant Cenacle Sister who has ious parts of the world demon- worked with young people in in a Christian setting. strated that where young people Europe, America and Asia. ADVANCED ELECTIVES were exposed to training and 2. Guilt - How do I manage my The following electives are Input on both of these levels, the past personal history and not let available for those who have possibility of them becoming guilt and mistakes paralyse me. involved in risky behaviour as Presented by Sr Jacqueline attended previous Catholic Youth they mature and develop was sig- Jones who has a delightful way of Conventions. 10. The Good Book - Who nificantly decreased. assisting people in looking to the wrote the world's best selling future, returning from Northam He said a range of electives book, why, and how to read it. Prewould be offered at the The Voice by popular demand! 3. Thinking in a Goldfish sented by Fr Ian Esmond, assisWithin" Catholic Youth Convention in January next year to help Bowl - Developing creative think- tant parish priest at Rockingham and noted hockey coach. In this formation. ing skills. Presented by John 11. Being Catholic - I'm a in keeping with the Compre- Sargeant, a dynamic presenter Catholic - so what? What does it hensive Approach to Youth Min- who has a great enthusiasm for all mean? istry being used by the life. Presented by Paul Russell, Archdiocesan Youth and Adult 4. Reaching for the Stars speaking at his eighth Catholic Youth Ministry here in Perth, the Awakening your potential, and Youth Convention. electives are chosen by Conven- discovering your gifts. Paul has completed a Bachelor tion organisers using a number of 5. Living in the Mess - Finding of Theology, and is returning to specific criteria," he said. yourself in the middle of the mess. study for his Masters degree next The comprehensive approach Presented by Melbourne's Sr Ann year. to youth ministry sees the forma- Ryan, returning for her second 12. What's the Story? - Adam tion of young people on two lev- convention. Jesus - Now. Who came first, Abraels, spiritual and personal Her vitality and sense of fun are ham or Moses? Where does David development. sure to make this an elective not fit in? "While there are many other fac- to be missed! A walk through the history of 6. living Life to the Max - the Bible. Presented tors such as moral development, by Fr John maturity, personality, etc, these affecting the world around you Duigan, parish priest at Midland. are incorporated under the rather than letting the world affect 13.The Moral Dilemma - Prebroader banners of spiritual and you. sented by Fr Walter Black. Presented by Steve Hall, a personal development." Fr Black is an expert in explaindynamic and entertaining pre- ing the Bruce said advanced electives many moral dilemmas were being offered at the coming senter with over 17 years experi- that face society today - euthanaconvention for those who have ence of youth ministry sia, genetic engineering, IVF tech7.BeyondI,Me, Nfme - Do My nology, etc - and is a challenging attended more than one convention. All of the electives attempt to Emotions Rule My life - Doing and thought provoking speaker.

REGISTRATION FORM

Please return to: Catholic Youth Convention P.O. Box 141 North Perth WA 6006 Surname

Christian Names Address Postcode Date of Birth

Phone Male

Female

Club Member Number (if applicable) Accommodation Preferred: Tent City Dormitory Style Normal Price $225 $255 Club Members $195 $225 I wish to order a T-Shirt and have included $25 in my registration fee. T-Shirt Size S M L XL I have enclosed a cheque/money order for $ being for Deposit Only ($30) Part Payment, Full Payment ( Please make cheques payable to Catholic Youth Convention) My Elective choices are: 1. 2. 3. Please note that whilst every effort will be made to give you your first choice, places in each elective are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. The Record, October 31 1996 Page 4

A lion, a sad fish and the woodcutter's daughter

Issa and Nour Karmout, left, and Juan Carlos Partin() with "Tilda" the official mascot for the Pacific School Games at the Multicultural Book Competition A wards held at the Education Department last week.

Christ the King School, Beaconsfield, over recent years has consistently done well in the Multicultural Book Competition that runs in all WA primary schools and this year was no exception three students won prizes. Juan Carlos Portillo only came to Perth four years ago from El Salvador. His book, written in Spanish and English. El Pescadi-

to Triste - The Sad Little Fish, was the only book commended in Category One. Brother and sister. Nour and Issa Karmout, came to Australia from Jordan for less than one year. Nour is in Year 5 at Christ the King School and Issa is in Year 2. Their book, written in Arabic, The Lion and Woodcutter's Daughter, won first prize in Category 11.

Doubleview tops again Seven students from Holy Rosary School, Doubleview, who won the State Division of the Tournament of Minds Competition, have won the National Award in the Primary Maths/Engineering category. Holy Rosary was the only team of the six from WA that went to Melbourne who took off the national award in their category. The winning team is pictured here with their model which showed how water could be dammed and distributed. Clockwise from the bottom left: Mary-Anne Skitmore, Christopher Bobridge, Adam Lindsay, Heidi Mason, Rachel Almeida, Josef Accordino and Ben Song.

Mission Mass for primary schools St Jerome's School, Munster hosted the inaugural Mission Mass for primary schools last Friday. Principals, teachers and students from many other schools in the metropolitan area travelled to Munster for the Mass concelebrated by Fr Wayne Davis and the National Director of the Pontifical Missions' Office, Fr Brian Brock The Mass brought to a climax an intensive period of activity in primary schools throughout the State where children have been praying for rain in drought-ridden Zambia. The children have also raised $20,000 for the Church's Missions activities in Zambia. Fr Brian Brock .told the children at the Mass of how children in Zambia have difficulty in gaining an education. He urged them to continue to pray and to work to help the people of Zambia.

Fr Man Brock with the $20,000 cheque raised by the Missions' Office in WA, Mrs Patsy Godwin, Archdiocesan Director of the Missions' Office in Perth, and students from Perth schools. Brant Alweyn and Catherine Considine, left, from Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Hilton; Adele Nardizzi of Holy Spirit, City Beach, Jaydon Miller of St Jerome's, Munster. and Alan Carss of St Bernadette's, Port Kennedy.

Ecumenical discussion on Jesus the Jew By Fr Pat Ahern "Jesus was an observant fairly conservative Jew, born of a Jewish mother with a Jewish name (Jeshua is short for Jehoshua), who spent most of his life in Southern Galilee." These were some of the comments made recently by Rev Dr Bill Loader in an address to a large audience at the new Worship Centre at Murdoch University This was the final function for 1996 organised by the Council of Christians and Jews (WA). Dr Loader said that from the Christian Gospels and other Jewish and Roman sources we learn that Jesus and his followers, who were mostly Jewish, were observant of Torah, paid tithes, kept the Sabbath, circumcised their male children, attended the synagogue, observed relevant purity laws concerning foods, celebrated the Jewish Festivals and upheld days of purification in relation to child birth and menstruation. Dr Loader said the conservatism of Jesus is reflected to some degree in his command to his disciples that they should not enter Samaritan territory, or venture Into Gentile areas in their mission. He saw his own mission and theirs as one "to the lost sheep of Israel". Jesus was perceived first of all by his followers and the wider populace as a healer. He was approached by different types of people including the Gentile Symphoenician woman who was eventually cured as a result of her persistence. Jesus showed a similar conservative attitude to the leper who pleaded for healing. Jesus responded to his plea but sent him off to the priest with a reminder that he make the prescribed offering. Jesus was also regarded as a charismatic teacher. Jesus used biblical visions of hope, especially from Isaiah.

He also employed images of a great feast, of joy and laughter, of harvest and plenty to describe his teaching about the kingdom. Jesus related hospitality to the outcast and despised, in a way which indicated their inclusion. In fact, his enemies accused him of associating and eating with the tax collectors and sinners. "Jesus does not appear to have held back in his criticism of some of the religious authorities, especially in cases of exploitation and hypocrisy," Dr Loader said. "He was appalled at commercialisation in the temple precincts. Jesus' action of overturning the tables of the currency exchange, and chasing out the dealers in animals for sacrifice, may have symbolised coming judgement or may have been a spontaneous act of anger at what they represented," Dr Loader said. All of these actions caused concern among Jewish religious leaders. Dr Loader said these concerns finally led to the crucifixion of Jesus by Pontius Pilate the governor and the Roman soldiers, but there was some involvement of the Jewish authorities of the time who believed they were acting in the nation's best interests. "When the disciples claimed they had seen Jesus alive after his death, it meant for them that God had vindicated Jesus over against his accusers." he said. "The Jesus movement continued to proclaim God's coming reign and to behave in community and inclusiveness as Jesus had." At the conclusion of Dr Loader's talk. I wondered what Jesus would have thought about such a gathering of Christians and Jews from various branches of both traditions. He would probably have been amused that we were all assembled to discuss his Jewishness. At the same time, I'm sure he would have been delighted that we were all gathered in unity and friendship.

St Paul's window blessed at 40th anniversary celebrations Archbishop Hickey visited Mt Lawley parish last Sunday to mark the fortieth anniversary of the foundation of the parish and to bless the recently installed stained glass window of St Paul. Parish priest Father Brian O'Loughlin said this week the window commemorated the service of deceased parish priests and parishioners. Archbishop Hickey admired the rich colours and also the incorporation of the symbols for the four evangelists. He also launched the recently completed Parish History that had been compiled by an editorial committee of parishioners led by Karen McLean. Copies are available from St Paul's parish (ph: 271 5253) or from the school (ph: 271 8593) at $5 a copy. Six long serving parishioners received Archdiocesan Certificates of Appreciation at the celebrations: Mrs Jean Murdoch, for service to the altar, Mrs Cavell

Twenty years of fierce commitment to the pro-life cause have won leading Western Australian pro-life activist John Barich a world-wide award for those fighting for the right to life from conception to natural death. Archbishop Barry Hickey last week presented the Michael Bell Memorial Award to Mr Barich at the Church Offices in Victoria Square in the presence of his family and representatives of the Knights of the Southern Cross. The Council of the International Alliance of Catholic Knights. to which the KSC is affiliated, decided to institute an international award to remember a fearless promoter of pro-life causes in the United States, Michael Bell. a leading member of the Catholic Knights of Columbus in the US. The citation for award said everyone who knew Mr Barich knew of his complete commitment to pro-life causes. "This commitment is amply demonstrated by the many 'Initiatives for Life' that he has taken during the past 25 years. and by the example that he has given to those who have joined him," it said.

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the necrology; Mr Frank Brophy. co-ordinator of collections and planned giving recorder and Mr George Howard, for service to the altar and garden.

Archbishop Hickey congratulates John Barich after presenting him with the Michael Bell Memorial Award as Mrs Barich looks on.

Seton College debaters' inaugural victory

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Surin, for service as sacristan at the RSL chapel; Mrs Anne-Marie Leahy, for service to the choir; Mr Pat Brophy, Acolyte since 1974, newsletter editor and keeper of

International honour for top pro-lifer

MARY IN POETRY (TO MUSIC)

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Archbishop Hickey receives a copy of the Mt Lawley parish history from editorial committee leader Karen McLean and Anne-Marie Leahy.

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Seton Catholic College in Samson recently won the State title in the inaugural Year 8 Competition run by the Western Australian Debating League. The team of Yvette Maker, Michelle Morgan, and Leonnie Hurst is pictured here with debating coach Mrs Michelle Patmore and Councillor Roger Stubbs, President of the Local Government Association, who presented the award.

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The Record, October 31 1996 Page 5

St Paul put words into action Peter Dwan continues meditations on the readings for Sunday Mass. This weelc, the readings for the 31st Sunday of Year A

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oday's liturgy teaches us that leaders must lead by example. The first reading (Malachi 1:142:2, 8-10) comes from an anonymous prophet - the last of the prophets sent to the Chosen People - who preached (and wrote down what he preached) in Jerusalem about the year 450 BC. The Jews returned from Babylon in 538 BC. In 515 the new Temple in Jerusalem was built. Moved by the preaching of the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, the returned exiles were zealous in the observance of God's law, and the liturgical rules of the temple were carried out faithfully. But when the prophet Malachi spoke, a change for the worse had occurred. Both, priests and people, had become lax. Marriage with gentiles, strictly forbidden by Mosaic law, was becoming very frequent, and the temple priests were lax and negligent in their liturgical services. In the verses read today, Malachi chastises and threatens the priests of the

ments: "The apostle, and especially one responsible for a community, cannot take to himself the titles which belong to God or to his Son. Like Christ, and unlike the Pharisees, he must make himself the humble servant of his brothers." In today's second reading (1 Thessalonians 2:7-9, 13) we have a portrait of a truly devoted apostle, whose example squared with his words. St Paul described his concern for his Thessalonian converts thus: "Like a mother feeding and looking after her own children, we felt so devoted and protective towards you, and had come to love you so much, that we were eager to hand over to you not only the Good News, but our whole lives as well. "Let me remind you, brothers, how hard we used to work, slaving day and night, so as not to be a burden on any one of you." St Paul worked as a tent-maker to support himself. The Philippians were his only converts from whom St Paul accepted financial help. When it comes to giving good example, where do we stand with the priests of the Old Law whom Malachi condemned and with the pharisees, or with St Paul?

A Layman's Meditation temple. This passage was chosen because of its connection with today's gospel passage (Matthew 23:1-12). Just as Malachi spoke out against the priests of his day, so Our Lord spoke out against the pharisees, who failed to show good example. Addressing the people and his disciples, Our Lord said: "The scribes and the pharisees occupy the chair of Moses. You must therefore do what they tell you and listen to what they say; but do not be guided by what they do: since they do not practise what they preach." Our Lord instructed his disciples on how they were to behave. He said: "You, however, must not allow yourselves to be called Rabbi, since you have only one Master, and you are all brothers. You must call no one on earth your father, since you have only one Father, and he is in heaven. Nor must you allow yourselves to be called teachers, for you have only one teacher, the Christ." Conveying the sense of this passage, the Glenstal Bible Missal (p 547) com-

To Jesus through Mary. . . a column of Marian devotion Pope John Paul in August sent this message to the 19th International Marian Congress in Czestochowa. Poland, in which he shows how devotion to Mary leads us to meet her Son In the Eucharist.

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ail, Jesus, Son of Mary, in the sacred Host you are the true God". Joining in spirit with those attending the 19th International Marian Congress,Irecall the words from a hymn that in Poland often accompanies Eucharistic adoration and processions. I repeat them because they contain the truth that, together with praising Christ present in the mystery of the Eucharist. almost of necessity we recall the memory of the Mother of God. It is thanks to her generous fiat that the Word of God was made flesh by the work Priest and Victim, which was to be accomplished on Golgotha. "At the foot of the Holy Spirit. She offered her own body to the Word of the Cross out of love for your Son, she so that he might take it upon himself and extended her motherhood to all men, the miracle of the Divine Incarnation born again from by the death of Christ for a life that will never end . . . . Taken would be accomplished. In her virginal womb, Mary bore the up into heavenly glory, with maternal Incarnate Word, awaiting "with love love she accompanies the Church and beyond all telling" the birth of the Sav- protects her on the way to her homeland iour as the liturgy states (Preface of until the glorious day of the Lord" (Italian Missal, Preface of the Blessed Virgin Advent II). When she gave birth to the Son of God Mary III) Every Holy Mass makes present in an she was, in a certain sense, the first to unbloody manner that unique and perworship his presence among men. Together with Joseph she took the fect sacrifice, offered by Christ on the Divine Child to the temple to offer him tree of the Cross, in which Mary particito God, according to the prescriptions of pated, joined in spirit with her suffering the law. Even then, through the words of Son, lovingly consenting to his sacrifice Simeon, God had revealed to her that the and offering her own sorrow to the Father sword of sorrow would pierce her heart, (cf. Lumen gentium, n. 58). when her Son became the sign of conTherefore when we celebrate the tradiction for the fall and rising of many" Eucharist, the memorial of Christ's (Lk 2:34). Passover, the memory of his Mother's This was the announcement of Mary's suffering is also made alive and present, participation in the saving work of Christ, this Mother who, as an unsurpassable

model, teaches the faithful to unite themselves more intimately to the sacrifice of her Son, the one Redeemer. Through spiritual communion with the sorrowful Mother of God, believers share in a special way in the paschal mystery and are opened to this extraordinary action of the Holy Spirit which produces a supernatural joy because of communion with the glorious Christ, on the example of the joy granted to Mary in the glory of heaven, as the first person to share in the fruits of the Redemption. In this way, just as Mary is present at the beginning of the mission of the Incarnate Word, and thereby at the origins of the Eucharist as well, the Marian Congress this year marks the start of the Church's spiritual preparation to make the [International] Eucharistic Congress [in Krakow next year] a fruitful experience. May these days bring you all close to her who "throughout her life in communion with her Son, not only by ties of blood but especially by love" is the most perfect Teacher of that love which enables us to be united in the deepest way with Christ in the mystery of his Eucharistic presence. Let Mary lead us to the Eucharist! Iask all of you .... to pray for the intentions of the Church and the world. As we give thanks for 20 centuries of Mary's protection of the Church, let us together ask her to lead believers towards an ever more perfect knowledge of the saving power of the Sacrifice of Christ, who is present in the Eucharist. Let us pray that the living experience of communion with Christ may bear fruits of zeal in the hearts of all Christians as they build up a communion of love among men. May the Mother of God lead us into the third millennium, united around the Word of God who was made flesh in her.

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The Record, October 31 1996 Page 6

Feed laity some intellectual meat, not nice words that skirt issues

With Paul Gray

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heology is an important, but never an easy subject. How welcome it is, then, whenever someone in today's Church tries to put hard theological questions in simple, lay person's terms. One example of such an effort is the recent edition of "INFORM: Current Thinking on Catholic Issues" (Catholic Adult Education Centre, Sydney) which deals with the question, "Who is the Holy Spirit?" Written by an American nun, Dr Elizabeth Johnson, this pamphlet outlines some of the ways human beings can see evidence of the Holy Spirit at work in our world - the Spirit In Nature, the Spirit in relationships and the Spirit in the social world. It includes, also, a reflection on Biblical Images of the Spirit - the Spirit as wind, the Spirit as fire, and the Spirit as water. Yet as far as that original tough question goes - "Who is the Holy Spirit?" - I have to say I didn't get too much out of Dr Johnson's words. "We speak of the Holy Spirit as the third person of the blessed Trinity." she says at one point. "Yet our words are inadequate in the presence of divine mystery; words can only point to the mystery." Strictly speaking, it is of course impossible to disagree with this. Yet as I read through this pamphlet. I could not help but feel that popular Catholic theology today has lost something vital that it once had - a willingness to try, at least, to make us think a little harder about divine mysteries, and what they mean to us. Take the work of the late, great Australian Catholic apologist Frank Sheed. A layman and co-founder with wife Maisie Ward of the religious publishers Sheed and Ward. Frank Sheed wrote many clear, accessible, theology books, some still in print today. My favourite is Theology for Beginners. In It, Sheed unashamedly sets out to tell his readers what Catholic Church doctrine is on the subject of the 'ninny, and other God-ly matters, in a way that will make sense to nonCatholics as well as Catholics. Sheed begins by recognising that the idea of Three persons in One God - the Trinity - is a difficult one for most people. Does it mean there are three Gods? No. he explains. The Christian proposition which differs from all other monotheistic theologies - is that there is only one Divine nature, with three distinct Persons who share in it. How does this come about? Sheed says because God is infinite and perfect, his understanding of himself - le. his self image - is also perfect. However. it is not just an image, but another Person. That other Person is the Word, or the Son. Similarly, because God loves perfectly, the Spirit of Love between the Father and the Son is also infinite and perfect - a third Person, in fact. That is what the Nicene Creed refers to when It speaks of him "who proceeds from the Father and the Son." In a spiritual sense, Christians have much to gain from reflecting on this and the other divine mysteries. But if we do not at least try to put the mysteries in words - however imperfectly - then what do we have left to reflect on? Perhaps it is time theologians started serving up more doctrinal meat for Catholics to put in their intellectual diet. After all, if it's good enough for them, surely it's good enough for us.

Reaping the whirlwind with Pauline Hanson MEP WT The Record is to be said about the Pauline Hanson phenomenon? he Independent Member of the House of Representatives for the seat of Oxley in south-east Queensland, whether we agree with her or not, has become a the views Ms Hanson espouses have lightening rod to attract the fears, baseless become well known. Even if an obscure or sound, of many Australians not just on independent backbencher should have immigration and Aborigines but also on been ignored, after all none of her views unemployment, and the destruction of are new - read some of the ideas in speechfamilies following on the late Lionel Mur- es of Kalgoorlie MHR Graeme Campbell phy's Family Law Act that established no- - she is now so notorious that politicians and public policy makers have to take fault divorce. Add to this worries about the loss of sov- notice of the phenomenon from Ipswich ereignty implied in Australia's high over- and address the fears of many Australians seas debt and the use of foreign treaty that she has expressed. A reading of Ms Hanson's maiden links with the United Nations to force legislation on Australian parliaments, and we speech - how many commentators have read it? - is instructive. have a nasty little brew. There is little doubt that it was drafted, With the witches and wizards of the media mindlessly stirring the brew of if not completely written, by someone else. "toil and trouble" in the days after Ms The writer of this editorial spent five Hanson's maiden speech to Parliament, years observing federal politicians at close the former fish n' chip shop owner has quarters as a journalist with a news become a cause celebre when, for the agency, and the level of detail and analycommon good, her views should have sis in the speech is surprising for an MHR been treated as many of the zany ideas of Ms Hanson's background. that parliamentary backbenchers are: This does not mean that Ms Hanson is good for an odd spot in Inside Cover on unintelligent or inarticulate: there are and Page 2 of the West Australian but soon for- have been MPs on both sides of politics gotten. whose talent seems to be only that of a But now the horse has bolted with the seat-warmer. media pack baying at her heels, and all The really worrying aspect of Ms Han-

son's views is that they contain elements of truth that are taken to the wrong conclusions. Her political philosophy based on half-truths have been arranged into what is a plausible whole for people whose livelihood and way of life is threatened by the increasing globalisation of the world economy, the breakneck speed of technological development and the socially destructive philosophies of the progressive classes in the big cities. What the religious, political, business and social leaders of Australia must realise that it is this brew that created the social dislocation that enabled the leftwing fascism of the Bolsheviks take power in Russia in 1917 and the right-wing fascism of the Nazis win government in Germany in 1933. It was among impoverished farmers in Germany that Adolph Hitler had his first electoral success. History has a warning here, even if it is not to be repeated in Australia because of other historical circumstances. But there is no doubt that significant sections of Australian society, as they become de-Christianised, are turning in on themselves to protect themselves from some-

thing they do not understand. This deCluistianisation is taking place under the impact of modern economic and technological progress and the failure of the Churches, including those in the Catholic Church who wish to water-down Catholic truth in doctrine and morals to appease the world, to preach the full Gospel guaranteed by Jesus Christ in his Vicar, Pope John Paul II, and his predecessors and successors. The Churches need to remind Australians that their society will thrive morally and economically if they accept migrants, and especially refugees, of any race or nation and if they join fully with their Aboriginal brothers and sisters in building a just society. They need also to proclaim more intelligently and insistently the Christian truths that underpin these policies as well as worship the way Jesus wanted us to do in the sacrifice and celebration of the Eucharist and reception of the sacraments. We should remember also, that in addition to this, it is prayer and fasting that will conquer the demons who, prowling the world to destroy souls, wait to take advantage of social strife.

97pouno 1A'e Remember Tasmania?

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ne of the main arguments being proposed at the moment against the Federal private members Bill on euthanasia is State rights over Federal Government rights: or at least that is what some of our politicians want us to believe. The argument being that the Federal government should not interfere with legitimate Sate government affairs. Even those who claim to oppose euthanasia per se, are opposed to this Bill on this so-called principle. Where were these same politicians now defending the States' rights two years ago when Tasmania had traditional long standing laws concerning the criminality of homosexual acts arbitrarily overturned by Federal laws? Wouldn't the same rhetoric apply? The main purpose for the existence of the Federal government is to legislate for the common good of the country. It is therefore assumed that in some circumstances the Federal government not only has the right but the duty to overturn specific State laws. This debate is and should only be about euthanasia. The issue of State rights is nothing but a smokescreen being used by those with an ulterior motive. This euthanasia debate is not about State vs Federal rights but about whether our society should stoop to such low standards of eliminating those whom we consider sick or disabled or not worthy of life. We have the medical knowledge and technology to eliminate suffering and therefore no need to eliminate the sufferers. Medical research has proven that those requesting euthanasia have changed their minds once they have been treated for psychological depression. A. Bertino-Clarke Bsc, M. Bertino-Clarke EN Karrinyup

Witness for marriage

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cannot agree with Andrew Kania (The Record. 17 October) that "it has been the custom for the Roman Church to have a celibate priesthood". It is too belittling to call "the ancient, sacred and providential present law of priestly celibacy" - as Pope Paul VI said in his encyclical on priestly celibacy - a mere custom. Vatican II not only confirmed the law but set forth the motives which justify this law for those who appreciate the gifts of God. The Synod on Priestly Formation (1992)

stated that "while in no way interfering with the discipline of the Oriental Churches the synod. in the conviction that perfect chastity in priestly celibacy is a charism, reminds priests that celibacy is a priceless gift of God for the Church and has a prophetic value for the world today." Pope John Paul II endorsed the Synod's recommendations. The question of celibacy in the Eastern Churches is not quite as simple as put by Mr Kania. Only celibates are ordained bishops and receive the fullness of the priesthood and, although married men can be ordained, no priest is allowed to marry after ordination. The most important reason for priestly celibacy is the witness this presents to married couples. If the priest can remain celibate despite all modern pressures then, equally, married people can remain in a chaste monogamous marriage. Both states, of course require the assistance of supernatural grace. This providential purpose of celibacy was mentioned by Pope John Paul II in his apostolic exhortation on the family: Familiaris Consortio. John R. Barich Ardross

More celibacy

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read with continued interest and amusement the exchange of views on the clearly vexed question of a celibate priesthood. The comment at the foot of Mr Kania's letter (The Record. 17 October) is a little facile. Clearly, it is nowhere stated that St Peter's wife was living at the time of his ministry being confirmed but similarly nowhere is it to my knowledge stated that she was not. Would not the chroniclers have recorded the facts if they were felt to be important? Of more intrigue to the non-Catholic is the statement that a celibate clergy is the fruit of a developing understanding of doctrine and beliefs; presumably the ability to access the estate of a deceased priest was a part of that doctrinal and belief development. At any event the real question has not to my mind been addressed. How does the Church reconcile accepting married clergy who convert while rejecting marriage for natural-born Catholics who aspire to the priesthood. To the uninitiated it looks like double standards and, indeed, to many initiated it is beyond their comprehension. Surely the question is: if a celibate clergy is best, why does the Church accept that which is so self-evidently second-best on the Church's own argument? HowardIEvans Nlanjimup

• The opinions expressed in this editorial, and any other Record editorial, are not necessarily those of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Perth.

&tiers lo Charity overheads

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our article on the cost of Christianity amongst different churches in the United States (17 October) happens to twang a respondent note with me just now; or perhaps the rattle of an empty cash box. This last week I have circulars from Life Link (formerly Catholic Community Care) and Pontifical Missions (formerly Propagation of the Faith) asking for support. This Sunday my parish is asking for more of the same. With November coming up, offerings for those who have gone before are customary. It is therefore a comfort to read that what works out at 2.5 per cent of my income for the above outgoings would be fair average giving. My church and charity total annually is a little more than this break even figure A disturbing feature of charitable support in these modern times is that much of it goes in fund raising costs. When a donation is made with the request for a tax concession receipt the donor's name is put into a computer. Thereafter he is circularised at some dollars cost several times a year asking for extra support. In one instance a $5 Xmas donation begat five further requests for help during the subsequent year. I fear that this trend is developing in Life Link and the Pontifical Missions. Appeals which formerly were annual per the church pews have now become twice or more a year through the post box plus a considerable amount of glossy literature. Contrast Caritas Australia (former Project Compassion) which operates entirely per the pews and the presbytery for receipts at minimum cost for the total operation. Paul Donnelly Claremont Patsy Godwin, director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in Perth replies: According to our statutes, the Pontifical Mission Societies has an obligation to provide education and evangelisation about Mission and it is recommended by the Bishops Conference that all dioceses in Australia support Propagation of the Faith and World Mission Sunday. Primarily our mailouts enhance these two directives and the benefits of bulk printing on a national level makes it cost effective. We receive no Government funding and our monies are forwarded annually to projects. Our administration costs nationally (and locally) are around 14 per cent which compares very favourably with other similar organisations and is far superior to many secular aid agencies.

Colifor

Ecumenical ironies

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everend Kaiser claims the slowing in ecumenism is because of the "Roman Catholic Church . . . . backing away from ecumenical opportunities" (The Record. 26 September) and blames this backing away on the Church reaffirming its uniqueness. To overcome this slowing down of the search for unity he proposes a "universal church council . . . . aimed at resolving issues dividing Christendom . . . . he has invited all of the Christian Churches to begin a binding conciliar process to prepare for such a gathering"! Vatican officials were reported to have been cautious about the proposal. Wisely so! The one true Church cannot compromise with the truth in the search for unity. To join in such a council may create serious difficulties. The Church is. as The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, catholic (universal) in a double sense because (1) Christ is present in her and (2) she has been sent out by Christ on a mission to the whole of the human race. Having taught and believed these truths for nearly 2000 years, how can the Church compromise on any of its doctrinal definitions guaranteed by Christ to be free from error. As the Catholic Church is the Universal Church founded by Christ, how can she agree to participate in the proposed "Universal Church Council" when it claims such a term as its own and has done so from the earliest times. The use of such title by the Rev Kaiser may indicate he questions the validity of the Catholic Church's right to call itself the "Universal Church". Other aspects of the proposal's objectives are. it seems, to systematically weaken Catholic claims to being the one true Church, papal primacy and infallibility, apostolic succession, doctrinal matters and sacramental issues. Why is it so important in the search for unity that the Catholic Church make concessions? Surely any search for unity must be to find the Church founded by Christ. Maybe the separated brethren could make appropriate concessions so as to speed up the process to unity. To conclude, I quote from Pope John XXIII's encyclical Ad Petri Cathedram of 1959: "This prayer of Christ, 'that they may all be one, as thou Father, in me and I in thee, that they also may be one in us', is the source and guarantee of Our cherished confidence that eventually all the sheep that are not of this fold will find their way back to it, and, as Our Divine Redeemer promised, there will be one fold and one shepherd". Hilary Ryan Rossmoyne The flectard. Cktobeo 31 1996 ,Page 7

Movie Reviews

Beautifully filmed, warm headed including Middlemarch and The Big Battalions). Nick is a plasterer by trade and his life could not be better. He has a group ver the past few months we of lads as friends, including, Tony have seen some outstanding (James Nesbitt) whose performance films from the British movie is absolutely brilliant, as in his own industry - Trainspotting, Secrets and way, he has come to terms with what Lies, and Beautiful Thing, to mention is to follow to his best friend - and the frailness of his, and our, own human a few. Now, a new British film to come to lives. Nick's life is about to be 'put on its the big screen (exclusive season at The Luna) is a warm-hearted story head.' He starts missing shots at soccer, he becomes clumsy at work (just entitled. Go Now. British films, in general, have the avoiding seriously injuring Tony). Nick is having occasional numbness ability to tap into the humanness and the reality of the everyday living of in his hands and double vision. His everyday people (a lesson the Ameri- relationship with Karen is beginning can film industry could take note of). to sour as his moods swing like a penGo Now is no exception to this. As dulum. There is something wrong with the we share in the joys, the sorrows, the love, the hate, the strength, and the ever jovial, athletic Nick. Eventually frailness of the characters, in Go Now, he is diagnosed with Multiple Sclerowe are also, through the wonderfully sis and, as this disease slowly begins acted, directed and written screen- to take control of his life, the friendplay, tapping into our own emotions. ship and love of his friends, especialNick Cameron (Robert Carlyle of ly Karen, and family are captured for TV's Hamish Macbeth and the us brilliantly by screenwriters, Paul screen's Trainspotting) is an ordinary Henry Powell (who drew from his bloke from an ordinary family in Glas- own personal experiences of multiple gow who now lives in the English city sclerosis) and jimmy McGovern. of Bristol. In one scene Nick's father, Bill (Tom He is exceptionally good at sport. Watson) says, "Why does this have to especially soccer. He has just found happen to Nick, it should be me" - a himself a girlfriend, Karen (Juliet scene played out in the everyday life Aubrey, who makes her big screen of many parents who have just been debut in this film, but has performed told of a debilitating illness to their in many BBC television features, son or daughter. Go Now Reviewed by Brother Luke Saker, fins.

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Robert Carlyle and Juliet Aubury in Go Now

Nick has to come to terms with his illness and, at first, shuns all help, especially from Karen. He attempts to have her out of his life as. in his own way he is saying to her, "I will become too much for you to look after, go out and live your own life". He becomes angry and sorry for himself, but his friends stay with him, and the last twenty minutes of this beautiful film will have you crying and laughing at the same time. Producer Andrew Eaton and director Michael Winterbottom have a film where the audience can see a little of themselves in every scene. The scenes 'with the boys' after the soccer matches, and before Nick's illness becomes so severe, are most enjoyable, and, like most British films, and television programs. tap into the psyche of everyday people, doing everyday things. In the film, the tapestry of everyday life is woven with everyday people Into a beautifully filmed and warm hearted story, a film adult audiences, especially those with children, of any age, will be able to relate with as they laugh and cry through our own daily trials of living. This could be the sleeper "film of the year'. If you get the chance, don't miss It.I do advise that there are some sexual scenes, including one direct scene of sexual intercourse, and occasional language that could offend some people.

In this one, witty exchanges A breath of fresh air muffle insights into morality from the 19th century

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triking similar chords to his debut feature. The Brothers McMullen. writer-director Ed Burns takes a comic look at serious domestic and moral problems in She's the One. This time the New York Irish Catholic family is "The Fighting Fitzgeralds,- as the name Dad's boat proclaims. While long-suffering Mom is never seen, Dad (John Mahoney) is a bullish presence who raised his two twenty-something sons, Mickey (Burns) and Francis (Mike McGlone), to look out for No 1 first and foremost. Cabdriver Mickey's been adrift a few years, ever since walking out on his promiscuous fiancee, Heather (Cameron Diaz). But younger brother Francis has taken Dad's advice to heart, with a six-figure Wall Street job to prove it. Yet his life's a mess since he's ignoring his lovely wife (Jennifer Aniston) in favour of his coldly ambitious mistress - who just happens to be none other than Heather. With both brothers facing marital breakups, Dad learns that while he was neglecting

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Ed Bums, Cameron Diaz and Mike McGlone in She's the One. Photo CNS2Oth Century Fax

Mom, she found romance with an unhappily married hardware salesman. Whether the fighting Fitzgeralds learn anything from their troubled relationships with women is glossed over as Burns is more concerned with witty exchanges than moral insights. Catholic viewers may not see the supposed humour in characterising Dad as someone who "doesn't believe in God, but that never

stopped him from being a good Catholic." On the other hand, these characters are not one-dimensional; we get inside their Mains and see how they view themselves and what they want out of life. Due to its adult theme of infidelity, numerous sexual references and frequent rough language and profanity, the US Catholic Conference classification is AIII - adults.

You will have to like Yankee basketball

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hoopi Goldberg shows the New York Knicks how to play winning basketball in the thin, unoriginal comedy, Eddie. When Texas showman Wild Bill Burgess (Frank Langella) buys the wilting Knicks franchise, the team's coach takes a hike and Burgess has to come up with a quick replacement. He settles on Eddie Franklin (Ms Goldberg), a limo driver who is an ever-hopeful regular at Knicks home games, tirelessly urging them on to victory despite loss after loss. For Burgess. naming a fan as the new coach is a publicity stunt which happens to click with

scious young woman who learns the difference between ringing a breath of fresh charity and kindness after air into theatres this sum- meanly insulting a spinster mer is Gwyneth Paltrow (Sophie Thompson) she considas the well-intended heroine of ered beneath her. As the older friend who points Jane Austen's 1816 novel. Emma. Writer-director Doug Mc- out her shortcomings without Grath's literate adaptation malice, Northam makes an sparkles of bucolic English admirable Knightley tiptoeing scenery and by Paltrow's along the rocky road to love. In fact, what makes Austen's exceedingly fine performance. tale so appealing is reinforced As well-off, carefree 21-year- by McGrath's playful direction old Emma Woodhouse, she that regards these frail and is serenely self-possessed and flawed characters with such quite certain her talents lie sympathy and bemusement. in matchmaking; indeed as the Audiences will surely apprecimovie opens she is congratulat- ate the grand visual design of ing her newly-wed former gov- the film, both in and out of erness (Greta Scacchi), whom doors, goldenly-lit scenes, Emma introduced to lonely wid- detailed costumes and even ower Weston (James Cosmo). Emma's elaborate coiffure curls Emma herself becomes the and swirls that parallel the cirsubject of unwanted propo- cular movements of the camera sals, realising at the last possi- in whispering tete-a- tete ble moment that her heart scenes. belongs to someone she has driThis is a distinguished translaven away by what she thought tion of Austen's novel and was her masterful manipula- a grand movie experience for all tions. but younger children who may Just when all seems lost, all not grasp the subtleties of the falls into place - for those who plotting. persevere in seeking their own Due to romantic complicatrue loves. Aside from an occa- tions, the US Catholic Confersional nasal intonation, Paltrow ence classification is Al! - adults Is delightful as the class-con- and adolescents. By Gerd Pare of CNS

the public and the sports writers; but for Eddie it's a dream job and she gives it her best shot. The players, hung up on their million-dollar egos, don't take the new coach seriously until she starts helping each of them overcome personal problems or deficiencies on the court. The key to turning the team around is getting the squad's star forward (Malik Sealy) to pass the ball instead of hot-dogging it. Eddie accomplishes this by benching him, then getting his mother to lay down the law about working together with the rest of the team. That's about as amusing as these predictable skits get in showing

The Record, October 31 1996 Page 8

how Eddie transforms the lackadaisical Knicks into a winning team. Sports movies of underdog teams and their heartwarming climb to success is nothing new and this one is so unoriginal, it becomes particularly tiresome. Directed by Steve Rash from a script credited to six writers, the result is thin comic gruel consisting of worn-out cliches from an overworked genre. Eddie is a largely unamusing waste of comic potential. Because of sexual situations and references, many coarse expressions and an instance of rough language, the US Catholic Conference classification is Al!! adults.

Gwyneth Paltrow stars as Emma

Photo. CNSMinimax

Features

Eucharist message matters at Fatima 'not third secrets' By Peter Rosengren

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here is no doubt that Christians can benefit spiritually from fascination with the appearance of Our Lady to the three young seers of Fatima in 1917. After all, Fatima will have an influence on world history long after the Russian Revolution of the same year is no more than the subject of school history lessons. But an unhealthy fascination with the unrevealed third part of the message is of no spiritual help, according to an American expert on Fatima who visited Perth earlier this month. The Fatima message, Father Robert Fox said, was designed to lead Catholics to loyalty to the Church's teachings and to the Holy Father. Those who got "tied up" in trying to guess the famous third secret were missing the point, he said. Fr Fox has headed up the Fatima Family Apostolate since he founded it in the United States ten years ago at the encouragement of the Pontifical Council for the Laity. He was in Perth this month on the first leg of an Australian tour talkiing on the divine nature of the Church. Before founding the Apostolate. Fr Fox led the youth division of the Blue Armw another international Marian-based Rosary movement, and is an internationally known expert on the message promulgated by Our Lady at Fatima.

Fr Robert Fox The Fatima message was primarily eucharistic, he told The Record. "I asked Bishop John Vernacio, the third last bishop of Fatima, many years ago, 'summarise for me the Fatima message.' And he said: Fatima is reparation, reparation, reparation and especially eucharistic reparation. Fatima begins and ends with the Holy Eucharist. "And when people get tied up on that secret and they make a big issue about it. that tells me they have never learned Fatima in any depth." The Apostolate's headquarters is based in the diocese of Sioux Falls. South Dakota: from there it publishes world-wide the Immaculate Heart Messenger. a Marian magazine. Fr Fox said the main task of the movement was to encourage sanctification of the family. It

encourages families to meet in groups once a month, praying, sharing and encouraging each other, following the inspiration of Pope John Paul ll's Familiaris Consortio. He added that, in a sense, the document operated as the Apostolate's 'Bible'. And, while the story of Fatima was so simple, its message was profound, he said, as it contained extraordinarily rich eucharistic, ecclesial. contemplative. Marian and Christ°logical dimensions. It was important to be balanced about the role of Fatima, taking into account the Vatican Council's caution against exaggerated devotion to Mary. "I interpret Fatima not simply as a devotion . . . . every Pope since Fatima was approved in 1930 has referred to Fatima as a reaffirmation of the Gospels." Fr Fox has had access to the main documents of Fatima, including the memoirs and letters of the last remaining visionary, Sister Lucia, who lives as a Discalced Carmelite nun. Despite the sometimes-morbid curiosity about the third secret. he said, its nature can be worked out from what is implicitly not mentioned in other parts of the Fatima message. "To make it very simple, the first part of the secret was the vision of Hell, the second part that God wants devotion established in the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary - those first parts of the secret were revealed but the third part was not," he said. But after telling of the first two parts and not the third. Sr Lucia

Young girls honouring Our Lady of Fatima in Fremantle earlier this year ends by saying that Our Lady says: said that the cause of the crisis of "But in Portugal the dogma of faith today - those that get confused in the Faith, those who misFaith will always be preserved." He continued: "If the dogma of represent the Faith - is that they Faith will be preserved in Portu- either have not learned or they gal it is implicit that it will be dis- have forgotten the divine nature turbed [in other] places. and Dr of the Church." he said. Alonzo. the Claretian priest [who It was for this reason that he had edited Sr Lucia's writings], said chosen to speak mainly on the that he was certain that third part Church as a divine living body as contained [a reference to) the cri- his own contribution in a time of sis of faith." confusion. Fr Fox said the Church was cur"[The Church] just isn't an rently "living the third part." organisation that we can throw But there was so much to Fatima around and change its doctrines. that to get tied up in curiosity of We must hold on to its divinely what the third part was irrelevant revealed teachings under our Fr Fox said his main message in Holy Father," he said. Australia was to speak on the "I believe this was the purpose Church and its divine nature. of Fatima: to lead us to loyalty to "I agree with Cardinal Ratzinger. the Church and to the Holy whoIadmire very much, who has Father."

Indulgences help Christians release Purgatory's self-tortured The Solemnity of All Saints on Friday and the feast of All Souls on Saturday brings to mind the members of the Communion of Saints, particularly our relatives and friend, who have died. While we need the prayers of those in Heaven, those in Purgatory still need our help. The Church still tells us that we can earn indulgences to release souls from the torture of Purgatory, as is outlined in the following summary of the Church's teaching from The Catechism of the Catholic Church.

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he doctrine and practice of indulgences in the Church are closely linked to the effects of the Sacrament of Penance. An indulgence, the Catechism teaches, is a remission of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven. The faithful Christian with the proper spiritual dispositions can gain these indulgences under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church. The Church, as the minister of redemption, the Catechism says, dispenses and applies with authority the treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints. An indulgence can be partial or plenary according as it removes either part or all of the temporal punishment due to sin, and they can be applied to the living or the dead. To understand this doctrine and

practice of the Church, it is necessary to understand that sin has a double consequence. Grave sin deprives Christians of communion with God and therefore makes them incapable of eternal life. Every sin, even venial, entails an unhealthy attachment to creatures, which must be purified either here on earth, or after death in Purgatory. This purification frees one from what is called the "temporal punishment" of sin. These two punishments must not be conceived of as a kind of vengeance inflicted by God from without, but as following from the very nature of sin. While patiently bearing sufferings and trials of all kinds and, when the day comes, serenely facing death, the Christian must strive to accept this temporal punishment of sin as a grace. He should strive by works of

Two American women pray for Mends killed in July in the mid-air exploPhoto CNS/Reuters sion of TWA Flight 800. mercy and charity, as well as by prayer and the various practices of penance, to put off completely the "old man" and to put on the "new man." The Christian who seeks to purify himself of his sin and to become holy with the help of God's grace is not alone. Pope Paul VI in 1967 taught on indulgences that the communion of saints was "a perennial link of charity" between those in their heavenly home, those in purga-

tory and the pilgrims on earth. In this exchange, the holiness of one profits others and the recourse to the communion of saints lets the contrite sinner be more promptly and efficaciously purified of the punishments for sin. These spiritual goods of the communion of saints are known as the Church's treasury of spiritual goods accumulated during the centuries. The Catechism, referring to Paul VI in 1967. teach-

es this treasury "is the infinite value, which can never be exhausted. which Christ's merits have before God." The merits "were offered so that the whole of mankind could be set free from sin and attain communion with the Father." This treasury includes the prayers and good works of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the prayers and good works of all the saints - all those who, as the Catechism says, have followed in the footsteps of Christ the Lord and by his grace made their lives holy and carried out the mission of God the Father entrusted to them. "An indulgence is obtained through the Church who, by virtue of the power of binding and loosing granted her by Christ Jesus, intervenes in favour of individual Christians and opens for them the treasury of the merits of Christ and the saints to obtain from the Father of mercies the remission of the temporal punishments due for their sins," the Catechism teaches. Since the faithful in Purgatory are also members of the communion of saints, one way Christians can help them is to obtain Indulgences for them, so that the temporal punishments due for their sins may be remitted.

The Record, October 31 1996 Page 9

Growing in Christian Marriage

Revive, survive with Scripture By Father John Castelot

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rospective brides and grooms can profit immensely by reflecting together on the Scripture readings they choose for the wedding liturgy. One of the most frequently chosen is the story of the creation of the woman (Genesis 2:18 24). It is a reflection on the relationship between man and woman in marriage. Unable to find a suitable companion among the animals, the man finds one when he gazes on the newly created woman. When God "brought her to" him, he exclaimed ecstatically: "This one, at last, is bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh!" There is no suggestion here of inequality but rather of equality and mutuality. The biblical author comments: That is why a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, and the two of them become one body." That is God's intention in establishing the marriage bond. The intent is that the man and woman join in a staWe, permanent union so deep that they form one body, one person. "I" and "you" merge into an indissoluble "we." Then there is the reading from Chapter 6 of First Corinthians, verses 13-15 and 17-29 - a powerful statement of the human body's dignity. Bodies are not mere play things to use unthinkingly for sterile pleasure. The body is destined not for immorality but for immortality. Paul asks, "Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ?" Does this mean wives and husbands are not to enjoy each other's bodies? Of course not! But they are to do so with deep respect and gratitude to God who created this sacred union. In the sex-saturated culture of Corinth, Paul reminds readers that casual sex insults God and others by treating a precious person as a throwaway thing, a mere object. "You must know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. . . . So glorify God in your body" - by respecting it for what it is. Couples commonly choose Paul's hymn to love in Corinthians 12:31-13:8. Without love, he tells us. we not only "have" nothing but "are" nothing. This love is not some abstract, disembodied relationship. It involves two fleshand-blood people who respect each other's sensibilities. "Love is patient, love is kind .....Love is never rude; it is not self-serving . . . . There is no limit to love's forbearance, to its trust, its hope, its power to endure." When inevitable strains put pressure on a couple's relationship, returning to these Scripture passages can help to steady them, revive and strengthen their love and commitment, and give them fresh hope.

lust being committed to being committed when going is tough' By Mary Miller Pedersen

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hen we announced our engagement, I overheard someone say that ours was a marriage "made in heaven." I thought so too - until a few months after the wedding! We had moved to a small university town. That's whenIbegan to realise that even though God brought us together and was a partner with us in our marriage, the marriage was being made right there in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with every decision we were making about jobs, housing, budgets and friends. Every marriage is unique. God never intended to produce cookie-cutter marriages. Every marriage is made up of special Ingredients each person brings to the mix. Yet most marriages follow predictable growth stages. Experts on marriage and family agree upon four or five stages of marital development: the early couple years; the time surrounding the first child's birth; the grade school years; the adolescent years; the empty-nest time; and ageing. There are great rewards and painful challenges with every stage. Most couples are ill-prepared for the adjustments required even for this typical growth. But added to the stress of each typical transition are unpredictable events such as deaths, unemployment and sickness. I spoke with older couples whose marriages had stood the test of time. The following is their collected wisdom for surviving and thriving in the face of life's inevitable challenges. 1. Communicate! Couples married from 10 to 50 years all said that good communication is a key to success. It's essential to know how to express one's thoughts and feelings, and how to listen when your partner speaks. Shared affection - including

hugs, gentle touch and making love - is an important means of communicating, along with talking and listening. Many men and women agreed that they did not enter marriage with good communication skills. Some found themselves imitating parents' unhealthy habits. A Marriage Encounter weekend, a couple's support group or counselling all were helpful in improving communication. 2. Work hard at your marriage! Experienced couples agreed that being committed to making the marriage work was 90 percent responsible for their success. For the past 15 years, a group of seven couples have gathered at a forest retreat in the winter to take an honest look at their relationships. One woman put it this way: "Sometimes I'm committed to the man I love; sometimes when I'm not sure about him, I'm committed to the family we've created together; and when they're driving me nuts,Iguess I'm just com- Darling, forgive me! it will never happen again! mitted to being committed!" 3. Fight fair, forgive and forget! means being honest and keeping a marriage. But "nothing is imposEvery healthy couple encounters promises. I have watched my sible with God," said one husband conflict. Conflict is a sign that two neighbour sit by the bedside of after a half-century of marriage. intelligent, unique individuals her dying husband for seven "When things got tough, we got months. on our knees." occupy the same space. The greatest threat to a growing That faithfulness didn't start Conflict either can destroy a relationship or be an important when the illness was diagnosed. marriage is the cultural misconcatalyst for growth. In our family It grew steadily over 50 years ception that a happy couple can room is a framed cross-stitch that forming the bedrock of a mar- steer clear of distress and strugsays, "Love, Honour and Negoti- riage. She said "in sickness and in gle. But seeing stresses and strains health . . . . till death," and she as vehicles for growth opens couate." ples to the paschal mystery which Couples unanimously agree that meant it. conflicts ignored and buried for 5. Trust God! Couples who is at the heart of Christian life: We believe that some dying is years eventually erupt. believe that God is a partner in Couples have found it helpful to their marriage find faith a strong necessary for new life. Letting go of one stage of maracknowledge that they needed force in facing married life's help resolving differences and to stresses and strains. Studies show riage allows the next growth stage pray for the grace to forgive one that marriages with a strong spir- to take place. Holding on and letting go. Dying another. itual core last longer. 4. Keep your word! All human At each stage of growth, couples and rising. Those are the essenrelationships are built on trust. face challenges which may seem tial components of a "made-inThose who marry as Christians insurmountable: a serious illness, heaven" marriage. • Mary Pedersen is the coordienter a covenant with God and loss of a job or a child's pregnanwith each other. That covenant is cy outside of marriage may threat- nator of the Leadership in Famimore than a contract; it is an en a couple's confidence in ly Life Training Program for the agreement to be unconditionally themselves. Even raising two or United States' Archdiocese of faithful to one another. That three teenagers at once can push Omaha.

Crises are an opportunity for growth By Charles Balsam

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he Chinese two-character phrase for crisis suggests both opportunity and danger. The full meaning of crisis cannot be expressed in one character. Every marriage has periods of crisis. Most divorces (danger!) occur at times when Individual and couple growth is most possible (opportunity!). Disillusionment is such a crisis. like). Most important, we saw that marriage The signs of disillusionment may include must be mutually learned. Our original comrepetitive fighting over the same issues; emo- mitment has to be the driving force behind tional distancing or detachment, peppered our resolution of future crises. with anger or rage at one's mate for "deliberCommitment means that we seek help when ately" creating unhappiness. we need it. Commitment gives security to our Most disillusioned couples get stuck in a love. It makes growth possible. power struggle. It can lead to divorce. The resolution of disillusionment overIn our marriage's fourth year,Ibegan to won- lapped with our next and most profound crider if! had made a mistake. I had a new job. sis: infertility. We had practiced, taught and I worked too hard, was gone a lot and was written on natural family planning. Now we emotionally absent when at home. were suffering an inability to become pregWe sought pastoral counselling and eventu- nant. ally attended a couples' weekend given by Dr. Embittered, we asked: Why is this happenHarville Hendrix (author of Getting the Love ing to us? What have we done to deserve this? You Want Holt Publishing). From our learnings in the first crisis, we During the weekend we came to understand sought spiritual direction and embraced the disillusionment as normal and resolvable. We "dark night" of our infertility. began a process which continues today. We Out of the vulnerability which intimacy learned some critical intimacy skills: the abil- requires, we were able to lean on each other ity to speak our feelings and needs; attentive through months of fertility testing and adoplistening; and searching for mutually agree- tion studies. able ways to meet each other's needs (for This included sharing our hopes, our grief touch, for separateness, forgiveness and the and the anticipation of parenthood.

TheRecord. October .34t .1996. Page 40

Our two children came to us through adoption. The paschal mystery pervaded our experience. Out of hopelessness and bewilderment, we saw God's provident love providing us with unanticipated blessings and surprises. Though all children are gifts, their arrival is also a crisis - that is, an opportunity to stretch, to grow in love, intimacy and commitment. Our previous struggles helped us adjust our life and household in order to bless our children with parents who clearly and visibly love each other. So, to single or engaged persons we ask: Are you called to the vocation of marriage? Are you willing and able to commit to what the marriage covenant requires? And to married couples: When in pain, do you blame the other or seek help together in humility? Do you pray? Are you both willing to stretch for each other, and for the emotional and spiritual well-being of your children? At our wedding, we exchanged solemn promises focusing on an unknown future requiring unconditional and sacrificial love. We sought help later because corrunitment means that we Wive up the right to change our minds. We were "converted" to a marriage that is a 100/100 effort. We make time for each other, share responsibilities for child rearing and housekeeping, worship and pray together. Commitment reminds us that we can view crisis as an opportunity to strengthen our marriage.

Features

Spot the mystery men of the Mount

Sydney artist Coburn wins Mandorla art prize

Mandorla Art Prize judges Lou Klepac, Dr Anna Gray, Sr Veronica Brady and Paula Latos-Valier with John Coburn's winning entry - Blues for Faith, Hope and Love.

College Chair & ,Jaan gsftt

Can you help identity students in the Mary's Mount choir in 1947?. About half of the students have already been identified.

A student in a sack race on 23 Sep(ember 1956. Do you know who it is?

Mary's Mount Primary School has been updating its archives in preparation for the 75th Anniversary Celebrations at the school on 19 November. Mary's Mount was established by the Sisters of St Joseph of the Apparition in 1921. It is a school that has special affection for many people. partly because of its location in the hills, partly because it was a boarding school for boys and partly because of the part it played in the War years in providing a sanc-

tuary for many children who were moved there in case Perth was bombed. If you can identify any of the students in the attached photos, please contact Thea Smith. the Principal at Mary's Mount on (09) 293 2800. The school has many more photographs which will be on display during the celebrations and would appreciate as many former students attending and helping identify students whose names are missing from the captions.

The invitation to win the 1996 10th Mandorla Art Prize through their artistic interpretation of Love, as written by St Paul in his letter to the Corinthians, attracted a record number of 149 entries from all over Australia. Sydney artist John Coburn won with his work entitled: Blues for Faith. Hope and Love. Two highly commended prizes of $500 each were awarded to Western Australian artist John Paul for his work 'The Saint', and New South Wales based Greg Warburton for his submission `Coolamon'. The major prize to the value of $10.000. known as the Kevin Sullivan Art Prize, gives the winner a return airfare to Italy with two month's accommodation and studio space in a Tuscany studio. Thirty finalists were selected

from which the award winners were chosen by a judging panel consisting of art historian, curator and author, Lou Klepac; the director of the Art Gallery of WA, Paula Latos-Valier. Associate Professor in the English Department of the University of WA. Sr Veronica Brady; and the director of the Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery, Dr Anna Gray. A fourth prize. The People's Choice, will be decided by visitors to the exhibition at Moores Building, 46 Henry Street. Fremantle, with each visitor entitled to vote for their choice of the best artwork The People's Choice winner will be announced at the New Norcia Gallery next month when the 30 finalists will be on exhibition until mid-December.

Placing a marriage in hands Cathedral parish stalwart feted of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

Recently Mrs Winnie Sullivan of Nile Street, East Perth, celebrated her 90th Birthday. This occasion was celebrated with Mass in St Mary's Cathedral and afterwards with a Birthday Party hosted by the Cathedral Dean, Fr Tom McDonald, in the Cathedral Presbytery. Mrs Sullivan has been a Parishioner of the Cathedral since she began her schooling at Mercedes College in the days of Archbishop Clune.

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The PEOPLE who specialise in TIMBER for the BUILDER & HANDYMAN Feature Cladding

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Matthew Monisse married Chereissa Hill at St Mary's Church, Leederville in the presence of Fr Jim Petri earlier this year. "We felt God's presence and love in the sacrament of Marriage and then to receive Jesus in the Eucharist as soon as we became husband and wife was the most precious gift from God," the couple said afterwards. "We constantly ask the Holy Family, Jesus, Mary and Joseph to guide and protect our marriage so that our love for each other and God grows stronger every day," they said.

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Eg: Jarrah F8 Hardwood Karri Fl 1 Hardwood Batu F17 Hardwood Jarrah Dry Dressed and Mouldings Pine F5 Softwood Pine Profile Mouldings Pine Treated Pine Treated Building Poles Particle Board Flooring Western Red Cedar Laminated Beams- L.V.L Flooring T & G (Jarrah, Plne, Tasmanian Oak, Cypress Pine) Wall Panelling Pine. Western Red Cedar. Jarrah

The Record, October 31 1996 Page 11

International News

Nicaraguan leader asks for papal intervention been officially proclaimed president due to a series of anomalies MANAGUA, Nicaragua (CNS) - in the election which will not be While counting continued after resolved until November. Police found almost 30,000 Nicaragua's elections, the selfproclaimed winner, Arnoldo Ale- unused ballot papers in the man, called on Pope John Paul II house of a Liberal Alliance leader. In a meeting with Cardinal to "pray for progress and development" in the Central American Obanclo, Aleman had asked him to "continue praying for God to nation. Aleman, former mayor of Man- illuminate those whose minds agua, and candidate for the Lib- have been closed by ambition and eral Alliance, told reporters on greed" and he thanked him for October 24 that he had asked Car- his "prayers for free and fair elecdinal Miguel Obando Bravo of tions." The cardinal celebrated Mass in Managua to request the Popes intervention in Nicaragua's polit- Managua's cathedral just three days before the voting, with Aleical crisis. The Cardinal will travel to Rome man, a Catholic, as a lector. The Cardinal in his homily told to "ask Pope John Paul to pray for the beginning of a period of a parable about a snake, out in progress and development for the the cold, who pretends to have Nicaraguan people," he said. changed his bad ways and Aleman had an 11 percentage is given warmth by a passer-by point lead over his nearest rival in who believes him, but is then bitthe presidential race, former Pres- ten by the serpent and dies poiident Daniel Ortega, but had not soned. By Mike Lanohin

Indian Church reminded of Jesus By Cindy Wooden VATICAN Cl (CNS) - Indian bishops and Vatican officials met in October to discuss a current in Indian theology that refrains from proclaiming Christ as the world's saviour out of respect for members of other religions. Pope John Paul II stressed in his message to the gathering the responsibility of bishops to ensure that Catholic theologians acknowledge "the uniqueness and universality" of Christ's role as saviour and "the salvific role of the Church as sacrament and instrument of salvation." Five Vatican offices, led by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, hosted the meeting, which included 21 Indian bishops representing the country's Latin and Eastern-rite dioceses. A Vatican announcement stated that the meeting was intended to co-ordinate a common approach to the "authentic and correct development of theology in India, taking particular account of the context of religious pluralism and interreligious dialogue." The announcement said the bishops emphasised the importance of preaching salvation in Christ, an effort "which at times has been hampered by incorrect theological perspectives." Of India's 936 million people„ Catholics account for only around 2 per cent of the population: about 80 per cent are Hindu, 14 per cent are Muslim, and 2 per cent Sikh The Second Vatican Council taught that people, who through no fault of their own do not know Christ but seek God with a sincere heart, may be saved, but this

should not be taken as saying, as some theologians would, that "one religion is as good as another", said Father Machado. "Without at all pulling back from the commitment to interreligious dialogue," he said, the October meeting emphasised Catholic teaching that the ordinary way of salvation is in Christ and through his church. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, prefect of the doctrinal congregation, has said in recent speeches that "relativism has . . . . become the central problem for the faith at the present time." Relativism in the West was connected "with the philosophical and religious intuitions of Asia, especially, and surprisingly, with those of the Indian sub-continent," the cardinal said recently. Some theologians in India, he said, have thought it necessary -to set aside the image of Christ from its exclusive position - which is considered typically Western - in order to place it on the same level as the Indian saving myths." Cardinal Ratzinger said that in this view, the historical Jesus "is no more the absolute Logos than any other saving figure of history" The bishops, at the end of the October meeting, and Pope John Paul in his message to the bishops, said such a position is incompatible with Catholic faith and with the right the faithful have to hear the truth about salvation. The bishops called for a dialogue with theologians in their country "so that by working together the Gospel of Jesus Christ may be proclaimed in its fullness to the peoples of India."

The Record, October 31 1996 Page 12

This message was interpreted widely as a warning against voting for Ortega, whose government ruled Nicaragua from 1979-90. During the campaign, Aleman promised to resolve the outstanding disputes over land rights, resulting from the confiscations carried out by the Sandinistas. Auxilliary bishop Eddy Avendano of Managua said the bishops would support Aleman's efforts to resolve the land problem and "continue its work of reconciliation." Nicaragua is facing a deepening economic and social crisis, with three quarters of Nicaraguans living under the poverty line, according to UN figures. One of Aleman's election promises was to create 100,000 jobs in his first year in office. "Let's hope he fulfils his promises, but a great deal will depend on the stability of the country," said Bishop Avendano.

Liberal Alliance candidate Arnaldo Aleman celebrates.

Photo CNS/Reuters

Pope John Paul's trembling hand is still exciting endless speculation By Patricia Zapor WASH!N(WON (CNS) - As Pope John Raul ll's Oct. 8 appendectomy faded from the news, speculation that he has Parkinson's disease was renewed as the medical guessing game among popewatchers. After several years of sidestepping questions about whether the pope's hand tremors indicate a neurological disorder such as Parkinson's, Vatican spokesman Joaquin Navarro-Valls in September described the pontiffs condition as an "extrapyramidal" nervous system disturbance. The extrapyramidal system is defined as the assorted functions of the brain involved in motor activities. The term "extrapyramidal disorder" covers a wide range of possible neurological problems, just one of which is Parkinson's. To some people, Navarro-Valls' coupled with explanation. the symptoms they have observed for several years, was tantamount to acknowledging the pope has Parkinson's. But diagnosis of the disease can according be complicated, to experts and medical texts. Dr. Lucien Cote, of the New Yorkbased Parkinson's Disease Foundation, said typically a physician doesn't know for sure whether the diagnosis is Parkinson's until the patient has a chance to respond to drugs used in treating its symptoms. "In the old days we used to call a lot of things Parkinson's syndrome," he explained. 'May, physicians try to be more specific, but there are some variants of

to artificially replace dopamine with a drug known in the United States as Sinemet, which helps make up for the degeneration of natural dopamine in the brain. The drug, also known as levodopa or 1-dopa, Sinemet's key component, helps the unaffected nerve cells in the brain become more effective, explained neurobiologist Jeanne Loring. a researcher who specializes in disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. In the early stages of Parkinson's, effectively 1-dopa masks symptoms, allowing patients to have a nearly normal lifestyle. But as the disease progresses, she explained, even higher doses of 1- dopa are ineffective Pope John Paul waves as he arrives at replacing lost natural in St Peter's Basilica last Sunday. dopamine and patients become increasingly unable to control brain disorders that a physical their own movements. examination alone can't distinFrom small tremors of the guish from Parkinson's. Sorting hands, patients progress to them out can be largely a hit-or- stronger tremors, to having diffimiss process of prescribing the culty walking, speaking or condrug treatment for Parkinson's. trolling their arms and facial "If the patient responds to treat- expressions. They may develop a ment he has Parkinson's, if he tendency to stand at a tilt. People does not respond, it's something with late-stage Parkinson's often else," Cote said. The cause is are confined to a wheelchair or unknown and incurable, although bed and must be assisted with the Parkinson's itself is not fatal. most basic physical functions. Parkinson's is a deficiency of a Even if physicians should pin substance called down Parkinson's as the cause chemical dopamine in the part of the brain of the pope's symptoms, that indicontrols movement. cates little about his ability that Dopamine enables nerve cells to to function productively as the send messages to other nerve head of the church, said Cote. cells, in effect translating a comAlthough its effects are ultimand from the brain to the fin- mately crippling, many Parkingers, legs or vocal cords, son's sufferers have a decade or according to a brochure distrib- more of productivity before symputed by the Parkinson's Disease toms make it too difficult to perFoundation. Physicians are able form basic physical tasks.

Catechism 'condones stealing' in rare cases ROME (CNS) - A Dutch bishop who has drawn media attention for saying the Church sometimes condones stealing will meet the country's prime minister to try to reverse recent federal budget cuts. Bishop Martinus Muskens told Catholic News Service on 21 October, that despite his government's claims that the economy was growing, "the prosperity is not distributed evenly. There are more people living below the poverty level in our country than ever before." The Bishop heads a commission

for social relations for the Dutch bishops' conference, and was to meet with Prime Minister Wim Kok on October 28 as a result of a big public campaign. The campaign featured frequent interviews with the news media, who have been fascinated with the Bishop's assertion that the Church condones stealing. "It is an old rule in the Church that God looks the other way if an unfortunate man steals a roll (of bread) here or there," the bishop told the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, pointing to Section 2408 of the Catechism of the

Catholic Church. The Catechism states that the seventh commandment forbids theft, but it is not considered theft if the owner's refusal to give something up "is contrary to reason and the universal destination of goods." "This is the case in obvious and urgent necessity when the only provide for way to immediate, essential needs (food, shelter, clothing) is to put at one's disposal and use the property of others" it continues. "The value of life is always to be held above the value of property," Bishop Muskens said.

International Ne ws

Poland's Parliament establishes culture of death can newspaper, said with passage of the bill, "Poland has taken VATICAN CITY (CNS) - Despite a decisive step forward toward repeated objections by Pope the culture of death." "The legislature has assumed a John Paul II and leaders of the Polish Catholic Church, Poland very grave responsibility," the reversed its 3-year-old near-ban paper said on October 24, "setting itself up as the arbiter of the lives on abortions October 24. The new law lets a woman end of all those unwanted human her pregnancy before the 12th beings who thus, with the benefit week if she faces financial or per- of the law, can be suppressed." The new measure was a sonal problems. The law stipulates that an abor- response to a law passed in 1993 tion can only follow counselling ending the abortion-on-demand and a three-day period for last- policy in effect during four decades of Communist rule. minute reflection. The 1993 law permitted a The measure also provides for special emphasis on sex educa- woman to have an abortion only tion in schools and reduced sales if the pregnancy threatened the woman's life or health or was a taxes on contraception. L'Osservatore Romano, the Vati- result of rape or incest, or if the By Lynne Well

foetus was hopelessly deformed. Legislative attempts to modify the law had been stymied by then-President Lech Walesa, but Walesa's successor, Aleksander Kwasniewslci, a former communist, supported changes to the legislation. At the end of August, the lower house of the Polish parliament, the Sejm, passed the new law, after overriding a veto in the upper house, the Senate. Shortly afterwards, the Pope asked Polish pilgrims to "pray for our homeland, so that the right to life from conception to natural death may be defended there." And on October 20, the Pope reiterated his earlier statement that "a people which kills its own

New family planning device released in UK By Paulinus Barnes \IANCHESTER, England (CNS) - A family planning device based on natural methods of family planning has gone on sale in Britain. with a welcome from prolife groups and church leaders. Sold under the brand name "Persona," the hand-held device shows a green light on those days In a woman's menstrual cycle when it is safe for her to have sexual relations without conceiving and a red light during fertile times. On approximately eight days each month the device will show a yellow light, indicating the need for a urine test before the machine can decide whether it is a "red" or "green" day. The system was welcomed by leading Catholics and pro-lifers. Msgr. Kieran Corny, director of the Catholic Media Office in London, told Catholic News Service that Persona was "enhancing and making easier the natural method of family planning as recommended by the Catholic Church." lane Knight. director of the Fer-

tility Awareness and Natural Family Planning Service of Marriage Care, said the device was "a brilliant technological breakthrough, giving women a new choice in birth control." "It is a safe method, there are no side effects, as there are no pills and no devices." she said. "It is efficient as demonstrated by the very extensive clinical trials that have been carried out recently, giving an efficiency rate of 95 percent, which is equivalent to barrier methods of contraception." She said that those working for her service would have no hesitation in recommending the system to women of normal fertility cycles. But she warned that it would not be suitable for women with very irregular cycles, women who had recently stopped the pill, breastfeeding mothers or women in menopause. "For our many Catholic clients the Persona provides a new method of family planning," she said. Publicity for the system said it

worked by monitoring a woman's hormone levels, based on an analysis of urine, and manufacturers claim that it is 93 to 95 percent reliable. When compared with other contraceptives, Persona's advantages include the absence of side effects and that it is simpler to use than other natural methods. The device consists of a handheld monitor and disposable urine test sticks. The initial cost is 49.95 pounds (US$75). The manufacturers said there were plans to launch the device in the United States. Brendan Gerard, information officer for the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children, called the development of the Persona a step." "positive "Natural family planning systems such as this avoid the problem of other contraceptives in that they are not abortifacient," Gerard said. "One hopes that this will encourage more respect for the human person and help couples plan their families," he said.

Irish bishops urge Northern Ireland hope By Cian Molloy MAYNOOTH, Ireland (CNS) The Irish bishops' conference has warned that relations between Catholic and Protestant communities in Northern Ireland are breaking down because of increased tension this past summer. But at a mid-October meeting, the bishops urged politicians and the public not to give up hope In the peace process. Tension has increased in Northern Ireland since the Irish Republican Army, which wants to end British rule in Northern Ireland, abandoned its cease-fire earlier this year. There are also widespread fears that Loyalist terrorists, who want British rule maintained, will abandon their cease-fires, partic-

ularly after the IRA exploded a a new beginning," he said. "A bomb in Northern Ireland Octo- valuable momentum was in train, and for the first time in many ber. 8. Bishop Laurence Ryan of Kil- years community leaders spoke dare and Leighlin, acting publicly about a new and bright spokesman for the Irish bishops, future. "People are asking what has said: "The past months have been wrong. gone a time of increased tension, fear, "Now is not the time to hand out mistrust and indeed bitterness. The result has been a breakdown blame. "The challenge is rather to live of relations between neighbours out in its fullness the Gospel mesand between communities. sage of Jesus Christ, the message "More than ever, we feel it necof love and forgiveness. essary to offer our encourage"This is the courageous and sure ment and support to those who way forward to justice and are caught up in the situation, peace." especially those who have sufBishop Ryan appealed to "all fered personally. people of good will not to Bishop Ryan said the bishops lose heart but to continue to pray support, in particular, those who with confidence." have continued to work painstakQuoting St. Paul. he urged them. ingly and fearlessly for peace. "Rejoice in your hope, be patient "The cease-fires, announced two In tribulation, be constant in years ago, carried the promise of prayer."

children is a people without a future". About 40,000 protesters in Warsaw echoed the Pope's words when they gathered at the parliament building the day of the vote, pushing baby carriages and carrying crosses as they marched. Abortion opponents said they would appeal to the Constitutional Tribunal, which examines the constitutionality of Polish laws. Bishop Tadeusz Pieronek, secretary-general of the Polish bishops' conference, said he did not expect that the Church would seek to have the law repealed through a popular referendum, because the majority favour abortion rights. "But I am sure that this law does not reflect the real spirit of

Poland and its profound morality" he said Asked if the law might be changed somehow, Bishop Pieronek said, "Yes, but I think that first we must change this government, and probably we will do that soon." Government figures show that about 600 abortions were performed in Poland in 1995, compared with 11,600 in 1992 - the year before the ban was passed and 82,000 in the last year of absolute communist rule, 1989. Abortion rights supporters said the year each that restrictions were in effect, 40,00050,000 women in Poland had abortions illegally or went abroad for them.

Catholic relief services gear up for Zaire unrest

A Zairian couple and their elL117 hildren flee the,between ethnic Tutsi rebels inr 'airian troops.

during %Mktg Photo CNS,Fteuters

said Palasits. In Britain, the Catholic Fund for Overseas Development said that unless WASHINGIUN (CNS) - Fight- the current refugee crisis in ing between lilts' rebels and Zaire is resolved, another bloodZaire's army has uprooted hun- bath could occur in Rwanda. dreds of thousands of Rwandan CAFOD, the official aid agency and Burundian refugees and of the Catholic bishops of Engsome Zairian citizens, said a land and Wales, launched a lobCatholic Relief Services spokes- bying initiative with other man. European agencies October 21. Conflict between BanyamuMaurice McPartlan. CAFOD lenge rebels (originally of Tutsi project officer for the area, origin) and the Zairian said: "We are deeply concerned army had reportedly moved about the situation in the region closer to Bukavu• Zaire on Octo- and especially around the ber 24 and whether the town refugee camps in Zaire. There had been seized was unknown. are over a million Rwandan Caritas Internationalis, the Vat- refugees still in these camps ican's umbrella aid organisa- who are more convinced than tion, has organised for blankets ever that it is not safe for them and plastic sheeting to be sent to return to Rwanda unless they to Goma and hopefully Bukavu, go back fighting." the area of greatest humanitar"Recent reports of arms arrivian concern, said David Palasits, ing in the refugee camps mean CRS East Africa team leader. that the threat of another war in He said that "a hundred thou- Rwanda cannot be dismissed," arrived in refugees have sand he said. Bukavu," as twelve refugee "While it is undoubtedly the camps around Uvira were being vacated by about 220.000 case that there are former killers in the refugee camps in refugees heading north. Genocide of Tutsis by Hutus Zaire. not all the refugees are during the 1994 civil war sent killers, and the peaceful return over a million reprisal-fear- of these refugees is crucial to ing Hutus fleeing into the the maintenance of peace in Rwanda." region, stirring local rivalries. McPartlan said that "failure to Zairian citizens of Tutsi origin act now to promote a new iniin Goma have tried to leave or go into hiding due to border clo- tiative for the peaceful and dignified return of these refugees sures, Palasits said. Chris Hennemeyer, country could be disastrous." CAFOD said a number of representative for CRS in Zaire, had reported to Palasits recent developments had "that 100 Zairians of Tutsi origin "strengthened the hand" of tried to leave Goma and go into extremists within the refugee Rwanda, but because the bor- camps. The provocative meader was closed they could not sures identified by the agency flee - they showed up at the included a reduction of rations door of a Catholic Church seek- within the camps, the refusal by the Rwandan government ing refuge." "The director of Caritas Goma to negotiate with refugees, and is of This' origin and has had to an increasingly aggressive attiflee and go into hiding in Rwan- tude by the Zairian government da," due to anti-Tutsi sentiment, toward Rwandan refugees. By Cindy Wooden

The Record. October 31 1996 Page 13

International News

fr

not 'is aim US unity Aid ban on Sinead lowest denominator' In Brief

DUBLIN, Ireland (CNS) The Irish bishops' overseas development and aid agency, Trocaire, has pulled out of a charity concert scheduled for November because of the appearance of rock star Sinead O'Connor. The concert was to mark the first anniversary of the execution of Nigerian dissident Ken Saro-Wiwa. Four years ago O'Connor ripped up a poster of Pope John Paul lion the US television program Saturday Night Live after shouting, "Fight the real enemy." She has also criticised Church teaching on life issues.

Pro-life advance CORPUS CHRISII, Texas (CNS) - The case of a Texas man convicted of harming an unborn child could provide the state's courts and ultimately the US Supreme Court with an opportunity to undo the injustice perpetrated against preborn human beings," said a pro-life leader. Judie Brown, president of the American Life League, was reacting to the manslaughter conviction and 16-year sentence for Frank Flores Cuellar, 50, in the death of a baby who was delivered prematurely at seven months after an auto accident. The defence argued that Krystal was not a person when the accident occurred.

Nuclear block NEW YORK (CNS) - The United States insists on keeping its nuclear weapons to protect its privileged way of life against Third World demands for a more equitable distribution of goods, Auxiliary Bishop Thomas Gumbleton of Detroit said on 23 October..

Agrarian reform UNITED NATIONS (CNS) Meeting the world's food needs will require agrarian reform, the Vatican nuncio to the United Nations, Archbishop Renato Martino, has said. An important component of any solution to the problem of providing adequate food for all will be "a more equitable distribution of land," he said. The nuncio added that this would include affirming women's right to have land.

A bishop rules DENVER (CNS) - Criticising its "questionable goals," Archbishop J. Francis Stafford of Denver has banned organisers of the "We Are Church" campaign from using any Catholic-affiliated institutions or buildings to gather signatures or hold meetings. The ban was "to safeguard the Catholic faith of the people of God in northern Colorado and the unity of the local church with the Catholic Church throughout the world." We Are Church argues for women priests and married priests, a lay voice in selection of bishops and pastors, and a new Church approach to sexual morality and other moral issues.

By Heidi Schlumpf CHICAGO (CNS) - Cardinal Joseph Bernardin said the aim of the Catholic Common Ground Project, announced in midAugust, is to help U.S. Catholics rise above hardened party lines and find "renewal in the splendor of the truth revealed in the person of Jesus who is our Lord and saviour." The cardinal said in his inaugural address on October 24 for the project, that he is "even more committed than before', after discovering that he faces death from cancer within months. "A dying person does not have lime for the peripheral or the accidental," he said, adding that "what is important, my friends, is that we find that unity with the Lord and within the community of faith

for which Jesus prayed so fervently." The project aims to promote dialogue among Catholics on issues facing the Church, including the changing roles of women, the declining numbers of priests and nuns, and religious education for children. It also offers a way to explore differences and disagreements which are natural and have always existed in the church - in a common spirit and ethic of dialogue. The Cardinal noted the concern of some critics that the exploration of differences could legitimise dissent or compromise the truth of Catholic doctrine. He reaffirmed that the project's will be accountable to Scripture, tradition and Church teaching. "I want to make it clear that, in speaking of a 'common ground,'

Participants at the Common Ground Project's inaugural meeting listen to a prayer offered by retired Bishop James Malone. From left is Michael Novak, Los Angeles Cardinal Roger Mahony, Mgr Philip Murnion from the National Pastoral Lite Center in New York, Chicago Cardinal Joseph Bernardin and ArchPhoto CNS/Frank Casella bishop Oscar Lipscomb of Mobile, Alabama.

this project does not aim at the Rather, in both instances its goal lowest common denominator," he Is the fullest possible undersaid. "Nor when it speaks of dia- standing of and internalisation of logue does it imply compromise. the truth."

Muslim talks 'should look at faith' ROME (CNS) - Christian-Muslim dialogue must go beyond joint social projects and help Christians and Muslims discover and share common points of faith, an Egyptian Jesuit said during a lecture given at Rome's Gregorian University. The lecture on October 21 inaugurated the Rev. Carl Peter Chair in Interreligious Dialogue, which was established after the theologian's death in 1991. Fr Farahian, a professor of biblical theology at the Gregorian University, has researched and written extensively on ChristianMuslim relations.

In his lecture, Fr Farahian suggested a good starting point would be a theological study of Abraham as presented in the Bible and the Koran. He said the fact that there were so many differences was no excuse for not engaging in dialogue. "It is important for both Christians and Muslims to return back to their own Scriptures in order to find a motivation for going ahead together in a religious dialogue." he said. Although the two Scriptures contain conflicting information about Abraham. "the essential

point both in the Koran and in the Bible is Abraham's act of faith which he makes in openness and submission to God." Because Jews, Christians and Muslims see Abraham as a man of faith and a model of "abandonment to God," they have a real basis for expressing a common religious ideal, he said. "In a sense, Abraham is really the model for all the believers the Muslims, the Jews and the Christians. When they are all living or trying to live this abandonment to God, they are really living in conformance to what God is asking from all mankind," he said.

'Do not deny the real Catholics in China' LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Ham Just as Germany's economy Wu - a Catholic Chinese dissi- improved after the Nazis opened dent and human rights activist - labor camps and arrested Jews, believes history is repealing itself. Catholics, Gypsies, homosexuals In recent speeches in the US he and others, China is creating a spoke of at least 6 million people robust economy under locked away in the People's similar repression, he said. Republic of China's estimated He added that "the United States 1,100 forced labor camps, farms, and other industrialised countries wineries, mines and factories. are more concerned about ecoWu spent more than 17 years in nomics than human rights, freesuch places, and he claims China dom and democracy for China." in the 1990s has become what Wu said that the Chinese GovNazi Germany was in the 1930s. ernment assumes that it can "con-

tinue to repress all forms of dissent because other countries will turn a blind eye". Wu said that the Vatican's attempts to open formal diplomatic relations with China may be a positive move. "ButIwould suggest the Vatican not contact the (governmentapproved) Patriotic Chinese Catholic Church," he said. "That means you are denying the real Roman Catholics in China."

Vietnam 'progress' VATICAN CITY (CNS) - A Vatican envoy cited some progress in recent talks with Vietnamese officials, but said the two sides were still on "different wavelengths" when it came to religious freedom. While churches are open and seminaries are full, the government continues to limit the scope of the Church's religious life and its action in society, Archbishop Claudio Celli told Vatican Radio on 25 October, after returning from a visit to the country. While in Vietnam, Archbishop Celli and another Vatican diplomat, Archbishop Celestino Migliore. held talks with Church and state officials. One highlight was a Mass on 16 October to celebrate the 18th anniversary of Pope John Paul H's election. Many faithful attended the Mass, held in the Hanoi major seminary. Unfortunately, Archbishop Celli said, Vietnamese officials had refused to allow the liturgy to take place in the city's cathedral.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church Respect for persons and their goods 2407 In economic matters, respect for human dignity requires the practice of the virtue of temperance, so as to moderate attachment to this world's goods; the practice of the virtue of justice, to preserve our neighbour's rights and render him what is his due; and the practice of solidarity, in accordance with the golden rule and in keeping with the generosity of the Lord, who "though he was rich, yet for your sake. . . . became poor so that by his poverty, you might become rich."

Respect for the goods of others 2408 The seventh commandment forbids theft, that is, usurping another's property against the

The Record, October 31 1996 Page 14

reasonable will of the owner. There is no theft if consent can be presumed or if refusal is contrary to reason and the universal destination of goods. This is the case in obvious and urgent necessity when the only way to provide for immediate, essential needs (food, shelter, clothing .. .) is to put at one's disposal and use the property of others. 2409 Even if it does not contradict the provisions of civil law, any form of unjustly taking and keeping the property of others is against the seventh commandment: thus, deliberate retention of goods lent or of objects lost; business fraud; paying unjust wages; forcing up prices by taking advantage of the ignorance or hardship of another. The following are also morally illicit: speculation in which one

contrives to manipulate the price mercial contracts of purchase or of goods artificially in order to sale, rental or labor contracts. All gain an advantage to the detri- contracts must be agreed to and ment of others; corruption in executed in good faith. which one influences the judg2411 Contracts are subject to ment of those who must make commutative justice which regudecisions according to law; approlates exchanges between persons priation and use for private purposes of the common goods of an in accordance with a strict respect enterprise; work poorly done; tax for their rights. Commutative justice obliges evasion; forgery of cheques and invoices; excessive expenses and strictly; it requires safe guarding property rights, paying debts, and waste. Wilfully damaging private or fulfilling obligations freely conpublic property is contrary to the tracted. Without commutative jusmoral law and requires repara- tice, no other form of justice is possible. tion. One distinguishes commutative 2410 Promises must be kept and from legal justice which justice contracts strictly observed to the extent that the commitments concerns what the citizen owes in fairness to the community, and made in them are morally just. A significant part of economic from distributive justice which and social life depends on the regulates what the community honouring of contracts between owes its citizens in proportion to physical or moral persons - corn- their contributions and needs.

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"SHAME" WORKSHOP This workshop aims to address the emotional wounding of shame. It is a process workshop, with minimum theory. At St Joseph's Conference Centre, Safety Bay, Friday 15 - Sunday 17 November. Enquiries: Upper Room 298 9690. 1996 GUILD OF ST STEPHEN ENROLMENTS The Guild of St Stephen invites all Guild members, Altar Servers, Acolytes and Clergy to participate in the enrolment of Altar Servers at 10:00am on Sunday 24 November at St Joseph's Parish, 1 Salvado Road, Subiaco. Bring your Alb, Red Cincture and Guild Medal. Contract Michael Peters on (09) 388 2863 or 041 115 4383 or Fr Holmes on (09) 381 1248 to confirm enrolment.

The Recore, OctoberiS44996 Page"16

Sowing charity in the wheatbelt A

n p ecumenical Prayer Chain involving thirty families to ray for people in need is a sign of the Christian community that characterises The Lord of the Harvest Parish based in Bencubbin in the northern wheatbelt. The parish embraces the closeknit rural communities of St. Michael's Church at Beacon, the Sacred Heart Church at Bencubbin, Our Lady of the Assumption at Koorda and Our Lady Help of Christians at Mukinbudin. The Prayer Chain's 30 families are a source of great comfort in times of crisis for people in the region by sharing Christ's love at a time of another's needs. Father Benedict Quadros, the parish priest, lives at the presbytery in Bencubbin. The entire parish covers an area of 15,000 sq kms, though most of the population resides in the southern section. Even before the local towns were gazetted, the Mass was offered and celebrated in the area when the Lord Abbot of New Norcia, Dr Anse1m Catalan. responded to a request from the Catholic people to send a priest to say Mass in Bencubbin. The first home Mass was said by the Benedictine Fr Castinaris in

At a Glance Parish: Lord of the Harvest (Beacon, Bencubbin, Koorda, Mukinbudin) Parish Priest: Fr Benedict Quadros BA Address: 83 Brown Street. Bencubbin WA 6477. Telephone: (096) 85 1243 Masses: Saturday (Vigil) 7pm, Sunday 8am, 10.30am, 7pm. (For information about Masses in the different Mass centres please ring Fr Quadros) Reconciliation: Before and after Mass or by appointment.

1915 at the residence of Mr Gudgeon. Masses continued on a quarterly basis, with faithful Catholic families in the grand tradition of the pioneers travelling great distances in very trying conditions to attend at private homes and community halls. The Catholic population increased to the extent that churches were built at Bencubbin in 1935. Mukinbudin in 1953, Wialki in 1954, Koorda in 1956 and Beacon in 1961. In 1972, the Sacred Heart Parish was formed in the Archdiocese of Perth. Fr Lancelot Caldwell set in motion the the first parish council which has continued uninterrupted to the present time, with two members from each Mass centre elected to serve for a two year term. Because the parish and the Church at Bencubbin shared the title The Sacred Heart", it was decided in 1989 to name the Parish "Lord of the Harvest", a fitting name for a farming community hopefully yielding a fruitful harvest of faithful souls as well as abundant crops. Along with the parish council. each Mass centre has a church committee to maintain the Mass centres and support faith development programs. The Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart for many years served the parish with a motor mission, providing catechetical and pastoral care to children and families. Sister Dora Macguire RSI continues this work through parish development programs. Parents now conduct catechism classes in government primary schools, with support from another Josephite sister, Sr Kathleen Downes. Mass is said each weekday at either Bencubbin. Koorda or Mukinbudin. and every weekend, Mass is offered and celebrated on a rotational timetable at each Mass centre. The first country service of the Natural Family Planning Association was established in Bencubbin when the late Mrs Moira Jack

Our Lady of the Assumption church, Koorda MONS. DOWNEY ANNIVERSARY A Thanksgiving Mass for the first anniversary of the death of Monsignor Daniel Downey will be celebrated in the stone chapel at Gracewood-God's Farm, 30 km's south of BusseIton, on Sunday 17 November at 1.30pm. Contact Betty Peaker, God's Farm, Box 24 P.O. Cowaramup 6284. Phone/Fax: (097) 556 212. EUCHARISTIC ADORATION WEEKEND Gracewood-God's Farm invites you to share 40 hours of Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, including Mass, Reconciliation and devotions in the sacred beauty of the stone chapel, 15-17 November. Fr Pat McAtamney (traveller with Our Lady Of Fatima statue recently) will be in residence all weekend and happily avail-

The Record, October 31 1996 Page 16

Bencubbin altar server, John Jeremy Fitzpatrick, proudly holds a copy of a blessing he received from Pope John Paul I I for his work as an altar server, he is surrounded by his family and parish priest, Fr Ben, fourth from left and Mrs Shirley Whitfield were commissioned as NFP counsellors in 1985. Mrs Donna Cooper, a commissioned counsellor and relief Silver Chain Nursing Sister, continues this work in the district. Projects such as the Lenten and Journey programs are enjoyed for the fellowship and education they bring to participants. The life of the parish is driven by a desire to keep and increase the number of people attending and participating in Holy Mass and providing material and community support for Fr Ben and the Church. The late Mrs Moira Jack, who died during 1994, Mrs Donna Cooper of the Natural Family Planning Counselling Service. and Mr John Fitzpatrick, recipient of a Papal Blessing for dedication to duty as an altar server, are some

First Communion day at Our Lady Help Of Christians church, Mukinbudin, on the celebration of Our Lady's birthday this year, 8 September.

First of four churches in the Lord of the Harvest parish: Bencubbin itseff of the parish's shining lights who have helped build up the parish community. The parish also tries to foster a love of the Holy Mass and partic-

St Michael's Church, Beacon

Archdiocesan Panorama able to assist in all the truths for which Catholics hunger. Suggested donation $60 (includes all meals & snacks). We can meet the bus if you request it. Reservations: Betty Peaker, God's Farm, Box 24 P.O. Cowaramup 6284. Phone/Fax: (097) 556 212. IGNATIAN SPIRITUALITY SPEECH Speaker: Father Tim Quinlan S.J., "Am I free or do I have a sense of being driven - what can I do about it?" - Ignatian Spirituality. In the multi-purpose room at John XXIII College, 7.30pm to 9.30pm. $5 (donation pensioners). Thursday 5

ipation in Church activities in its young people. The parish is there to help each parishioner share with others in activities reflecting God's love for each other.

November. Contact Murray Graham 384 1122. SUMMER CRAFT FAIR At Corpus Christi College, Murdoch Drive, Bateman. Sunday 1 December 9.00am to 3.00pm. Great gifts for Christmas - Jewellery, Cottage Craft, Dried Flower Arrangements. Pottery, etc. Free admission. Open air garden setting, Devonshire teas, lunches and drinks. FAMILY FUN DAY AND FETE Presented by The Good Shepherd Catholic School and Parish, cnr Morley

Drive and Altone Road, Kiara, on Sunday 10 November, 11.00am to 4.00pm. Enq: 279 8119. MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER STATE CONFERENCE The Marriage Encounter State Conference (20th Anniversary in W.A.) will be held on 16 & 17 November at Corpus Christi College, in Bateman. Topics to cover: family of origin, adolescents, sexuality, Ignatian Prayer, family values and the vision of Marriage Encounter. Cost of the conference is $30 per couple. Bring shared lunch for Saturday. Conference booking necessary: contact Joe and Margaret Cordina, 82 Bibra Lake Drive, Bibra Lake, 6163, phone: 417 1984. Continued page 15